The Garden Under Glass

io6 THE GARDEN UNDER GLASS When they have reached a 6-inch pot they may be given a cooler temperature. It is advised to grow a few plants from seeds each year, and to discard tall, ungainly specimens, though they can, of course, be rejuvenated by ringing or notching. The latter method is preferable. A cut is made half-way through the stem at a point a few inches below the lowest leaves. From below the cut a piece is sliced out so as to leave the surface of the first cut bare. Thus the top is supported by only half the stem. Some damp moss mixed with sharp sand is tied over the cut, and this is kept moist by syringing un til sufficient roots are thrown out to en able the top to be cut away entirely and be treated as a separate plant. Aspidistra This is a plant that is found in so many homes and so many greenhouses that it needs no eulogy from me. There is a variegated form which is not very beautiful and not very populär. I wonder if readers have ever seen this plant flower. Its flowers are quite close to the soil and might easily pass unnoticed, as they frequently do. The usual method of propagation is by division, but this need not be frequently practised. Plants which are root-bound —provided they are plentifully supplied with water—are much better left undisturbed for several years. If extra large plants are desired they may be secured by giving a gentie heat and keeping the plants potted along. As the plants are intended to remain a long time undisturbed a good soil should be provided at potting-time and charcoal should be incorporated to keep the compost sweet. Good fibrous, turfy loam should form the major portion, with an admixture of oak leaf-soil. Stimulants may be given afterwards by way of liquid manure. Aspidistras are