Propagation 263 
made extremely interesting, by grafting a Tomato plant 
on to a Potato, or a Melon on to a Cucumber, &c. The 
above examples are done more as 
a curiosity than for any useful 
purpose. 
Root grafting is another rare 
form of grafting. Dahlias, Tree 
Paeonies, Clematis, Hollyhocks, 
&c., are sometimes propagated in 
this way. It consists in select- 
ing- orood roots as stocks and cut- 
ting a V-shaped cut about 1^ in. 
deep in them, preparing the shoot 
by cutting a wedge-shaped end 
to it and fixing it into the root, tying it up, and covering 
with grafting wax until the union is effected. They must 
be shaded for a time from the sun. 
Grafting Clay. — This consists of 2 parts of clay, 
1 part of cow manure, and a little finely cut hay. 
The latter is to bind the clay together, to prevent it 
cracking and falling off. The whole should be mixed 
up some time before it is to be used, and occasionally 
stirred before using. It may be kept soft by making a 
hole in the centre and filling it up with water. 
Grafting Wax. — This is more convenient for use, 
and for delicate plants is almost indispensable. It is 
sometimes made up of resin, beeswax, and tallow, and 
used lukewarm; or it may be bought ready for use and 
suitable for using cold. 
Grafting may be performed any time when the sap 
is in motion, but the hot weather of midsummer should 
