Cucumbers.--The plants preparing for ridging out early in February will
require attention in airing, and watering with tepid water occasionally
when dry, and to be kept close to the glass to produce sturdy growth.
The plants on dung-beds require great attention at this season. To be
kept within eight or nine inches of the glass; to be stopped regularly;
and to maintain a heat of not less than 70 deg. by day; to be able
to give air to dry the plants. The fermenting materials to be always
prepared ready to receive the linings when the heat declines. For those
who are fortunate enough to be provided with pits heated by hot-water
pipes, such constant labour and attention will not be necessary.
Melons.--To be treated as advised for Cucumbers.
Peaches.--When the blossoms are beginning to expand, discontinue
syringing, but sprinkle the pathways, to produce a moist, but not too
damp, and consequently a healthy, state of the atmosphere. Fresh air is
indispensable and should be admitted at every favourable opportunity;
and if the cold external air could be made to pass over the flues, or
hot-water pipes, so as to get warmed before coming in contact with the
blossoms, a gentle circulation would be constantly kept up until the
fruit is fairly set.
Pines.--Great care is necessary when syringing, more especially those
that are about throwing up their flower-stems, that no more water may
lodge in the hearts of the plants than will evaporate during the day.
But if, from any cause, a portion remain until evening, it should be
drawn away by means of a syringe having a long and narrow tube at the
end of it, or by a piece of sponge tied to the point of a small stick.
Strawberries.--When these are throwing up their blossom-spikes a little
liquid manure may be given, but it should be very weak, and perfectly
clear. A succession of plants to be introduced where there is a gentle
heat. The decayed leaves to be trimmed off, the surface of the soil to
be stirred, and the pots to be placed on shelves near the glass.
Vines.--Continue the treatment as advised last week.
Keep up a succession of Kidney Beans, Asparagus, Sea-kale, and Rhubarb.