particularly when it is known that very little exertion 
would be required to collect more than a thousand 
named sorts of this flower ; bringing to view under 
some combination or other, almost every conceivable 
tint of yellow, red, purple, brown, and their various 
compounds ; with or without occasional minglings of 
clear white, Well may it be said that flowers are 
the gems of the earth — the very poetry of nature. 
The Ranunculus is very generally planted in au- 
tumn, about the middle of October ; and under the 
care of a diligent florist, who will carefully protect 
his beds by glass and litter ; by mats, straw, or some 
other means, which will effectually prevent injury 
from frost, this early planting will always be pro- 
ductive of the finest flowers ; and also of the strongest 
tubers, for the following year’s use. But where 
these beautiful flowers, in beds or tufts, are in- 
tended to meet the elements, unheeded, spring 
planting is most undoubtedly to be chosen. Winter 
exposure will sometimes destroy very many of the 
choicest sorts. No precise period in the first three 
months of the year, can be pointed out as more pecu- 
liarly suited for planting than another, because suc- 
cess so much depends on the weather, soil, and 
situation, which will hereafter be considered. If the 
situation be not extremely cold, it may be recom- 
mended that the planting be effected as early as it is 
possible in February; after which time severe frosts 
do not generally occur. If, however, sharp frosts 
take place, when the roots begin to vegetate, it will 
be indispensable that protection be given them by 
night ; but by day the covering should be removed, 
to admit all possible warmth from the sun. 
Hort. Kew. 2, v. 3, 355. 
