Page:The Amateur's Greenhouse and Conservatory.djvu/165

Rh of peat, loam, and leaf-mould. When grown as bush specimens the shoots will require to be tied out, but when trained to a pillar or wall they should be allowed to grow in a natural manner.

.&mdash;The chief value of these consists in their adaptability for winter decoration. They are all of comparatively rapid growth, and strong bushy specimens may be produced by the autumn from cuttings struck in the spring. If it is desired to keep the old plants, prune them rather severely, and afford them the assistance of a genial temperature and moist atmosphere until they have commenced to make new growth.

.&mdash;Like other hard-wooded plants of a similar character, these require an airy position in the greenhouse during the winter, and to be placed out of doors during the summer. A mixture of peat, loam, and sand forms a very excellent compost. The Hoveas are exceedingly valuable for the distinct colour of the flowersnamely, deep blue. They are well adapted for occupying prominent positions in competitive groups, although seldom seen at public exhibitions.

.&mdash;The only species grown, L. diversifolia, is well deserving of attention. The flowers are deep yellow and freely produced. A peaty soil is the most useful.

.&mdash;Although a climber, the Lapageria is in every way suitable for growding in large pots and training to a balloon or similar-shaped trellis. Turfy loam and peat in equal parts, with a moderate proportion of small crocks, nodules of charcoal, and silver sand, form a very suitable compost. The drainage must be perfect, for during the summer season almost unlimited supplies of water will be required, and means must consequently be provided for the ready escape of superfluous moisture. If this is not done the soil will soon become sour and the roots will perish.

.&mdash;Although more difficult to cultivate than a few other subjects, good specimens may be produced with ordinary care. They require an airy position near the glass during the winter, otherwise the tips of some of the young