CULTURE OF GLOXINIA. 
'247 
able, allowed to remain in the pots, keeping the soil about them 
quite dry ; while in this state a dry shelf in the greenhouse is 
the most appropriate place for them. Of course care must be 
taken that the earth is not wetted by occasional drips or other 
causes, to prevent which the pots may be placed on their sides; 
on any appearance of mouldiness they should be instantly re¬ 
moved and thoroughly dried again. The end of February is 
the most proper time for starting them; they should be first re¬ 
potted ; the soil should be a mixture of well-rotted leaf-mould 
and peat, in equal quantities, with about a sixth of the whole 
good fresh loam and white sand : a thorough drainage is neces¬ 
sary. In planting, the bulb should be pressed in just level with 
the surface of the soil. After potting, it has been generally 
thought necessary to place them in a stove, but we would advise 
the adoption of a pit or frame in preference, with a medium 
heat of about 60°, which can be obtained in most places during 
the spring; they do not require water till they begin to grow, 
and then but little at first, when if the soil is observed to dry 
fast shading should be resorted to. As soon as they have made 
two or three leaves, water may be used without fear, and as 
they advance in growth a slight syringing on the foliage will be 
of service, and may be continued every day till they begin to 
flower. In this situation they may be kept till the middle or 
end of May, by which time they will have attained a good size, 
and probably show flower-buds; it will be necessary to admit 
air to them on favorable occasions, the same as for other plants, 
and about the time for removing them to the greenhouse it 
should be largely increased to render the growth as dwarf and 
strong as possible; they do not require any repotting, that is, 
supposing them to be placed in pots of sufficient size at the first 
potting; those called 48s are large enough for moderate sized 
roots. When taken to the greenhouse a light airy situation 
should be chosen; they do not require any particular manage¬ 
ment while flowering beyond the usual supply of water, and 
they continue to produce their beautiful flowers the whole of 
the summer: this, with the ease with which they may be 
grown, renders them desirable acquisitions in every collection. 
The varieties are very numerous, especially of speciosa, and all 
