290 rooms — OP insects, etc. [January. 
The frequency of watering can be best regulated by the 
person doing it, as it depends entirely upon the size of the 
pot or jar in proportion to the plant, whether it is too small 
or too large, and the situation it stands in, whether moist or 
arid. Never allow any quantity of water to stand in the 
flats or saucers. This is too frequently practised with plants 
in general. Such as Cdlla jEthibpica, or African Lily, will 
do well, as water is its element (like Sagittdria in this 
country) ; the Hydrangea and Hyacinths, when in a growing 
state, will do admirably under such treatment. Many plants 
may do well for some time, but it being so contrary to their 
nature, causes premature decay ; a fetid stagnation takes place 
at the root, the foliage becomes yellow, the plant stunted, and 
death follows. 
OF CAMELLIA JAPONICA. 
In rooms, the buds of Camellias will be well swelled, and 
on the double white and double variegated sorts perhaps they 
will be full-blown. While in that state the temperature 
should not be below 40° ; if lower, they will not expand so 
well, and the expanded petals will soon become yellow and 
decay. If they are where there is fire heat, they must have 
plenty of air admitted to them every favourable opportunity, 
and water freely given, or the consequence will be that all 
the buds will turn dark brown, and fall off. It is generally 
the case, in the treatment of these beautiful plants in rooms, 
that, through too much intended care, they are entirely 
destroyed. They do not agree with confined air, and to 
sponge frequently will greatly promote the health of the 
plants and add to the beauty of their foliage, as it prevents 
the attacks of the red spider. 
When the flowers are expanded, and droop, tie them up 
neatly, so that the flower may be shown to every advantage. 
OF INSECTS, ETC. 
Insects of various kinds will be appearing on your plants. 
For method of destruction, see Hot-house, January. It will 
not be agreeable to fumigate the room or rooms, or even to 
have the smell of tobacco near the house from this cause. 
