Feb.] flower GARDEN. 159 
In planting the above, or any other sorts, particularly at this 
early period, observe to preserve balls of earth about their roots, 
to dispose thein regularly, and intermix the different kinds in such 
order as there may be a variety of colours, as well as a regular 
succession of flowers in every part during the flowering season. 
Auriculas. 
The choice kinds of auriculas in pots must now be treated with 
more than ordinary care, for their flower-buds will soon begin to 
advance; therefore the plants should be carefully defended from 
frost and cold heavy rains. 
This must be done by a good covering of glass and mats, but 
every mild and dry day the plants must be entirely uncovered. 
Any old decayed leaves should be picked off as they appear, the 
earth loosened at the top of the pots, some of it taken out and re- 
placed with .good fresh compost mould. This will encourage the 
pushing of young roots from immediately under the leaves, which 
will greatly strengthen the plants. 
Be very cautious however not to force those plants at this season, 
for that would prevent their flowering in any tolerable perfection; 
all they require, is to be protected from severe frost, snow, cutting 
winds and cold rains; they are to have no bottom heat whatever, 
nor are the glasses to be kept close in any kind of sunshine that 
might produce a strong heat in the frame; on the contrary, they 
must get as much air as possible, by taking the glasses ott' every 
sunny or mild day, and replacing them at night and in cold weather; 
and when you cannot take them totally oft', raise them a little 
behind, or slide them either up or down, at every favourable op- 
portunity. A little frost will not do them much injury, especially 
until their flower buds begin to appear, but after that, they must 
be carefully protected therefrom: cold heavy rains is their utter 
enemy at all times, against which you must carefully guard. 
Soio Jiuricula and Polyanthus Seeds. 
Auricula and polyanthus seed may be sown any time in this 
month; they will grow freely, and the plants from this sowing will 
rise well. The seeds may be sown in boxes, or large pots filled 
with light rich earth, and covered about the eighth of an inch deep; 
then place the pots or boxes in a hot-bed frame at work, give them 
frequent but light sprinklings of water, both before and after the 
plants appear, and a reasonable proportion of air at favourable op- 
portunities: by this means you will have a fine crop of seedlings, 
handsomely advanced towards the beginning of May; when, after 
all danger from frost is over, (for these being tenderly raised, would 
be subject to injury therefrom) take the pots or boxes out of the 
frame, and place them where they can have only the morning sun 
till ten o'clock, and that of the afternoon after five, during the 
remainder of the summer. The mid-day sun you must carefully 
guard against, for it would totally destroy your plants. 
