The Amateur Propagator . 
85 
them during the middle of the day. Directly the sun is off, however, remove 
the paper, replacing it again the following morning. 
Every day examine the seed-pots, and where the seeds are seen to be 
sprouting, slightly tilt the glass to admit air. When it is apparent that all the 
seeds have sprouted, remove the plants out of the plunging material nearer 
the sash of the frame, and a day later to a shady position out of the frame. 
Continue to supply moisture by immersing the pot in water, as advised above, 
and the second day after removal from the frame, take off the glass altogether. 
If any seedlings begin to show signs of damping—that is decaying, carefully 
pick them out and put a pinch of powdered charcoal and sulphur on the spot. 
Except for an hour or two in the middle of the day the seedlings must not 
be shaded, but occupy a light position on a shelf near the glass, to prevent 
their becoming drawn and weak. 
When the first rough leaf is formed, transplant the seedlings into pots, pans, 
or boxes, prepared in a similar way to those advised for seeds, then put them 
in the shade for a few days to establish themselves in new soil, after which a 
sunny shelf and a moderate amount of air will ensure their being dwarf and 
bushy. 
All half-hardy plants raised from seed in heat require to be gradually 
inured to a lower temperature by a process called “ hardening off.” Thus, 
when the seedlings have been once transplanted from the seed-pot or pan, 
they should, as soon as established - that is, as soon as they hold themselves 
erect—be transferred from the propagator to a cold greenhouse or frame. 
Whichever structure they are put in, carefully exclude the cold air from them 
for the first few days, and also shade from sun. Commence to admit 
air about the third day, opening the lights a little between n a.m. and 2 p.m. 
Each day afterwards increase the ventilation according to the weather, then 
the plants will be hardened sufficiently to plant out-doors. Where neither a 
greenhouse nor frame is available, use the propagator for “ hardening off,” by 
reducing the heat and gradually tilting the sash. 
In regard to seed-sowing out-doors, two methods are generally followed. 
One is to sow, as in the case of hardy annuals, where the plants are to grow ■ 
and the other in nursery beds, as in perennials, for instance, afterwards trans¬ 
planting the seedlings. In carrying out the first plan, sow the seed in patches 
or drills. Very fine seeds should be sown on the surface and covered with 
mould ; moderate sized ones, about one-eighth of an inch deep, and the larger 
sizes, a quarter to half an inch deep. Those sown in reserve beds should, if 
