The Garden Under Glass

GLOSSARY 359 means applying fresh moss to the surface of plants which it is undesirable to repot. The term is also applied to putting fresh green moss over the surface of plants in the drawing-room. It is also used to denote putting moss round the stems of such plants ascrotons, dracænas, etc., after a piece has been cut out of them or a ring of bark peeled off. This is done to induce roots to be thrown out. Mould.—Another term for soil. It is used chiefly in regard to decayed leaves, which are described as leaf-mould. This is best when stacked for at least a year, and preferably for two years. Mulch.—To apply manure or leaf-soil to the surface of a peach or vine border for the purpose of arresting the evaporation of moisture is in gårdeners’ language to mulch it. The substance so applied is also to some extent a source of plant food, and it assists also by enticing roots to the surface where they can more easily be fed. Fruit horders are best mulched after the fruits have set. Mushroom Manure.—This is a short and convenient method of describing the horse manure which has been used for making mushroom beds. After the bed has become exhausted as far as mushroom culture is concerned, the material is very useful for putting in potting soil. As the freshness of the manure has passed away it is very safe and may be used in practically any potting soil. It also has the additional advantage of holding the moisture well. Netting.—When melons begin to ripen, the rind or skin becomes wrinkled in the manner of network. When this st age is reached syringing should be discontinued, but as at such a time red-spider is likely to gain a foothold it is best to pro vide for such a contingency by syringing well just prior to this stage with “ Spidacide,” a mixture which I have found very efficacious in dealing with this insidious pest. Offsets are young bulbs which form at the side of older ones, as in the case of amaryllises, tulips, hyacinths, nerrnes, etc. In most cases it is advisable not to detach them until they have a few roots of their own.