32 C. H. STOCKING 

ROSE SHIPMENT 
Roses shipped by Parcel Post or Express should reach 
the purchaser in perfect condition no matter how far 
shipped. On opening package, if roots should be found 
to be dry, soak in water twenty-four hours, or bury 
entire plant in wet soil for two or three days. Do not 
expose roots to sun or wind when planting. Any bruised 
or broken roots should be cut off. 
DRAINAGE 
Roses require good drainage. If soil has poor drain- 
age, use several inches of coarse sand or gravel below 
where the rose is to be planted. Should the entire 
garden have poor drainage, tile drainage should be 
used. 
SOIL 
. Roses prefer a fairly heavy, slightly acid soil, al- 
though they will grow well in almost any well drained 
ground. They will not grow well in a soil where there 
is an excess of either acid or alkaline. As most of our 
soil in California is more or less alkaline, it is quite 
necessary to use some substance to acidify the soil. 
Sulphur at the rate of % lb. per sq. yd. twice a year 
is very beneficial. 
PLANTING 
Several weeks in advance of receiving the plants, it is 
advisable to spade your beds at least 18 inches deep 
if you wish the best results. Incorporate in this soil, 
alfalfa leaves, bean straw, well rotted manure or some 
other desirable material for humus. At planting time 
make a cone-shaped mound in the center of the hole 
and place the crown of the roots on the apex of the 
mound. Spread roots to cover as much surface as pos- 
sible. Fill just above the roots with surface soil and 
tramp down firmly. Fill hole with water two or three 
times so as to close up any air pockets that there 
might be. After the water has settled, the hole may 
be filled up level. Be sure to have bud union level 
with the surface or slightly above the ground. Plants 
have been moderately pruned ready for planting. 
