76 AURICULAS. 
beginner against thinning the pips too rapidly, for it may be that 
the small florets are all that he has left when the time arrives ; 
and in preference to removing them as in ordinary seasons 
is usual, it perhaps will be better policy to take away the larger 
and more forward flowers, it is an alternative much to be regretted 
certainly, but the only one at all available in many collections; 
yet, notwithstanding the difference it will necessarily cause in the 
size of the flowers to be exhibited, it must be admitted to be 
better to have even small flowers than none at all. Some com¬ 
pensation may perhaps be made by the liberal application of 
tepid liquid manure just now, and by keeping a genial moist 
atmosphere about the plants. 
An auricula bloom may be kept good for about a fortnight 
from the time of its perfect expansion, and this will afford data 
on which to determine whether it is necessary to sacrifice the 
first flowers or not, and under the circumstances it will be well 
to decide as quickly as possible, at any rate it will be advisable 
to reserve a few more pips than are actually required, to take 
the place of those which may fail at the last minute; and in 
dressing the truss, let the centre be well opened, that the youngest 
florets may have air, and thus gain strength, so that, if required, 
they may be of some service. 
In this process of retarding, some tact is necessary to prevent 
the blooms “setting” as it is termed, for if exposed to cold winds 
or frosts in then’ present state the flowers become crippled, and 
refuse to expand further, so that though shading may be required 
in the day, they must be carefully covered up at night or when¬ 
ever the weather is unfavorable. The plants themselves will no 
doubt be benefited by the longer period of growth which is thus 
afforded them, but their removal from the sun should take place 
at an early date, so that they may not become enervated from its 
effects. Seed will probably be scarce this season. 
Phillaxthus. 
