AUGUST. 
253 
indeed the pages of the Florist monthly testify—I must congratulate 
them on the good example they afford their parishioners to do likewise 
—an example we happen to know in our own neighbourhood is appre¬ 
ciated as it should be. 
The drought has in many parts of the country been excessive; ponds 
and wells never dry before are so now ; and although rain has fallen in 
considerable quantities in some places it has not in all, and hence the 
difference in the appearance of vegetation which a ride through the 
country presents to the traveller. Connected with gardening there are 
two facts impressed on my mind by the present season : one is, that 
our means for irrigation are much too incomplete, or wanting altogether ; 
and that mulching is not practised so much as it should be. In hot 
dry climates these methods of assisting vegetation during the summer 
season are well understood ; and although we have not regularly seasons 
hot and dry, yet when they do come we appear all abroad with resources 
to meet them. There are few gardens where some system of irrigation 
might not be introduced with decided benefit, and at a small expense. 
Will anyone tell me how many crops of Strawberries have been cut 
short by one half this season, and how much has been lost by gardeners 
in consequence, and then say at what expense this loss might have 
been overcome, and a great addition to their vegetable crops made at 
the same time, by some simple form of irrigation, as, for instance, the 
tank and gutta percha tubing system ? 
G.F. 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS. 
Auriculas .—After lying comparatively dormant for the last two 
months, this class of plants must now claim our attention. To ensure 
a good growth and bloom next spring, they will require shaking out 
from the old soil and repotting, using moderately rich but well sweetened 
soil. The dimensions of the pot used will depend upon the size and 
strength of the plant; but by no means over pot. Keep the plants 
rather close in a frame or pit for a short period after repotting ; give air 
gradually and in proportion as they make root, until they can be fully 
exposed to the air. It is very desirable to protect them from hea’vy 
rains. 
Azaleas .—All those that are done growing should now be properly 
trained ; the foliage will then get properly drawn out before the winter. 
All plants that have perfected their growths should be set out of doors 
the whole of the month in a shaded airy situation, and they should be 
carefully watered. Plants in houses or pits should be shaded in bright 
sunshine. 
Camellias .—If all these were not shifted last month, any that require 
a larger pot should have it forthwith ; the thinning of the flower buds 
should now be attended to. Water carefully, when necessary, and 
syringe daily in hot weather. 
Conservatory and Show-house .—Ventilate freely night and day; 
water well when necessary; shade and syringe heavily plants not in 
