122 
RANUNCULUS ASIATICUS. 
round and upon each root; then cover them over with 
about two inches of the loam. 
Never select the largest roots to plant in a flower¬ 
ing bed, for they generally divide into offsets, and 
seldom flower well; but choose those of middle size, 
with the crown high, and firm to the touch, and your 
expectations will be less likely to get disappointed. 
It is indispensable that the roots never be allowed 
to come into contact with the manure or decaying 
vegetable substance, or they will become more or less 
injured. When the leaves appear above ground, 
choose a dry day, and press the soil firmly about the 
roots with the hand, as if the weather proves dry, and 
the crowns of the roots happen to be exposed, they 
will suffer material injury. In dry weather they will 
require watering; and this must be continued, if they 
require it, until they are in full bloom. 
In situations where the sun has great power, sha¬ 
ding must be resorted to or the leaves will become 
yellow, and but few flowers will be produced. They 
should also be shaded while they are in flower, or they 
will soon fade. This shading may be done either 
with an awning, or hoops placed across the bed, and 
covered with mats ; but whichever way it is done, a 
current of air must be allowed to pass underneath, or 
the stems will be weakly and unable to support the 
flowers. As soon as the leaves have died away, take 
up the roots, clean them, and put them to dry on a 
tray, or in an airy chamber, not exposed to the sun. 
When dry put them in a drawer, till the season arrives 
for planting. 
