DECORATIVE VARIETIES. 
39 
within the loop-Iike tie the stem of the plant itself. Never 
tie too near the top of the shoot, as this, during the grow- 
ing season, is always very brittle, and when strong winds 
prevail, if tied too near its apex, may snap off and upset 
one’s calculations. When the plants are in the larger 
pots, they should have stakes of a stronger character, 
and also of a height to suit each individual variety. Most 
decorative plants of a bushy character will need the sup- 
port of three or four stakes, in order that their ample 
growths may be encompassed, and also securely looped. 
At all times insert the point of the stakes some little dis- 
tance from the base of the main stem of the plants, that 
damage to the young roots may be avoided. 
As the plants increase in size, it is very important that 
the tying or looping be securely done. It is a mistake to 
tie up the growths too tightly, as they cannot in this way 
properly mature, and the even contour of the plants will 
also be destroyed. Looping the growths has been re- 
ferred to on several occasions ; by it the grower should 
understand that, in the first instance, the ties to the stake 
must be made absolutely secure. Then, by bringing the 
raffia round, and the shoot brought within the loop and 
tied in such a manner that no great strain is brought to 
bear on either, the more natural development of the plant 
will be brought about. 
Watering must be very carefully observed, and on no 
account should the plants be watered unless the roots be 
almost dry. There are growers who apply periodical 
waterings during the day, and seem to think it is neces- 
sary to water each plant in the collection whether it wants 
it or not. On no account should this foolish want of 
method be tolerated. Each plant, if there is any doubt 
about it, should have its pot rapped with the knuckles or 
something answering the same purpose, and in response 
to a distinct ring, water should be supplied. Should a 
dull sound be given off in response to the rapping, pass 
on to the next plant, as no water will be needed till the 
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