CHAP. IV.] 
CUTTINGS. 
79 
nerally require shading, which layers do not; 
and also, occasionally, what gardeners call 
bottom heat, to induce them to throw out 
roots. The branches most suitable for mak¬ 
ing cuttings are those which grow nearest to 
the ground, especially those which recline on 
it, as they have always the greatest tendency 
to throw out roots; and the side shoots are 
considered preferable to those which grow 
erect at the upper part of the plant. The best 
season for making cuttings is summer, when 
the sap is in full motion; as the returning 
sap is then most likely to form the ring or 
mass of accumulated matter from which the 
new roots are to spring. It has been already 
mentioned under the head of layers, that it 
is from the joints only that roots can be ex¬ 
pected to grow; and, accordingly, in making 
cuttings, the shoot is divided at a joint; and 
it is reckoned best to choose the joint at the 
point of junction between the young wood 
and the wood of the previous season. The 
cut should be quite smooth; as if the shoot 
be bruised, the returning sap will not be able 
to reach the joint in a sufficient quantity to 
effect the desired end. Some plants are 
