Frequent attention is now necessary in the giving and taking away of
air as the alternations of bright sunshine and clouds occur, and also to
temper cold winds by the admission of air on the south side. If
severe weather has been now experienced, and extra fire heat used in
consequence, many plants that may appear all right may, nevertheless, be
very dry, and if they are not examined, and when very dry, well soaked
with water, they will soon show unmistakeable signs of approaching
death.
Azaleas (Indian).--Young plants that have commenced their growth to be
repotted. Shift Achimenes, Begonias, Gesneras, &c., and keep them in a
warm, moist situation.
Bulbs.--Pot Cape and other bulbs in a compost of loam, leaf mould,
with a good sprinkling of sand, as soon as they begin to make growth in
foliage.
Heaths.--Continue to shift as they may require, using sandy heath-soil
full of fibres, with an abundance of drainage. Be sure that the ball
is thoroughly moist before shifting; for if perfectly dry when that
operation is performed the waterings afterwards given will pass freely
through the fresh soil without penetrating the old ball. Give them all
the air possible, avoiding north or north-east winds.
Potting must be in progress, and include a good proportion of the
occupants of these houses.