56 HARDY PERENNIALS 
to be again transplanted to flowering quarters as 
soon as growth commences in Spring. 
In pricking out, never bury the crown or centre 
of leaf growth of a seedling below the soil. If, 
through overcrowding or dense shade, the plants 
have become drawn, with a foot-stalk below the 
first leaves, the bare stem may be submerged, but 
see that the stem and roots go straight down, for 
bending or doubling up will check or maybe wholly 
prevent further growth. The soil must be gently 
and evenly, but firmly, pressed against the roots, 
until the young plant feels firm when gently pulled. 
If it can be easily drawn from the soil it may be 
taken for granted that it is too loosely planted. 
The soil should then be pressed down and pricking- 
out started afresh. Shade and light sprinklings of 
water must be afforded until the seedlings resume 
a fresh and active appearance, when they may 
gradually be inured to full light and air. 
Throughout the seedling stage of a young plant's 
life great care must be exercised to ward off attacks 
of insects. 
Slugs, woodlice, caterpillars, etc., are very partial 
to the tender young leaves and stems of seedlings, 
and various methods must be adopted to destroy 
the pests or prevent their access to the plants. 
In beds and frames the soil between and around 
the seedlings may be dusted with old soot or finely 
powdered lime. Wood ashes or powdered charcoal 
also serve as deterrents to crawling insects and 
