Page:The Amateur's Greenhouse and Conservatory.djvu/251

Rh. They may be purchased either on their own roots, on the brier, or the manetti, according as they are most readily procured; but if there is any choice in the matter, give preference to those on their own roots. Neat standards of one to two feet high, however, are pretty if they have good heads. It is of considerable importance to avoid disturbing the roots of such as are intended for early flowering, and when they come to hand simply stand them in a sheltered position, and cover the pots with leaves or other loose material, to prevent the frost penetrating the soil.

They should be pruned some time in December, and be removed to the greenhouse or pit. If a pit can be devoted to them it should be kept rather close, to encourage them to start into growth early, and on the afternoons of fine bright days a sprinkle overhead with tepid water will be of considerable service. The syringing overhead will be none the less useful if they are placed in the greenhouse, but, of course, it will be necessary to avoid wetting the foliage of such plants as should be kept dry, and also creating a dampness in the atmosphere hurtful to the hard-wooded plants which may happen to be in the house. The soil, even when the plants are quite dormant, should not be allowed to become dust-dry, and when in full growth liberal supplies of water will be necessary. After they are fairly started, moderately weak liquid manure should be employed in preference to clear water. The drainage from the manure-heap diluted with water will form an excellent stimulant; and second in value to that is guano-water, prepared by mixing the guano with clear soft water, at the rate of two ounces to three gallons. Horse-droppings steeped in water also make an excellent liquid manure. It must be used perfectly clear, and the colour should be that of pale ale; if a deeper colour it will be too strong, and will do mischief.

As the growth progresses it will be necessary to tie the shoots neatly, and in such a manner as to ensure well-formed specimens. The only enemies they will have to contend with when making their new growth are green-fly, mildew, and the rose-grub. The destruction of the latter can be accomplished by hand-picking, and a moderate dose of tobacco-water will soon make short work of the green-fly; dusting the foliage with flowers of sulphur is the best remedy for mildew.

When they go out of bloom remove to a sheltered position