Mimosa.--These shrubs are often called Sensitive Plants, on account
of the leaves of several of the species of this genus shrinking when
touched. They grow well in loam and peat with a little sand, but
require to be planted in a warm situation or to have greenhouse care.
Cuttings of the young wood root readily in sand under a glass. They
may also be raised from seed. Mimosa Pudica exhibits most sensibility.
Height, 2 ft.
Mimulus (_Monkey Flower_).--Showy half-hardy perennials which thrive
in moist and shady situations and in almost any soil. They may be
grown from seed sown in slight heat from February to May, or increased
by division of the root. The frame and greenhouse kinds grow best in a
rich, light soil, and may be multiplied by cuttings. The annuals may
be sown where they are to flower. They bloom in June and July. Height,
2 in. to 11/2 ft. (_See also_ "Diplacus.")
Mina Lobata.--A charming half-hardy annual climber, bearing singularly
shaped flowers, produced on long racemes. When young the buds are a
vivid red, changing to orange-yellow, and when fully expanded the
flowers are creamy-white. It thrives in loam and peat to which
a little dung has been added, and is well adapted for arbours,
trellises, or stumps of trees. Sow the seed on a hotbed in March,
harden off, and transplant when all fear of frost is over. Height, 8
ft. to 12 ft.
Mint.--May be grown in any garden soil. It is increased by runners,
which, if not held in check, become very troublesome. The roots may be
confined by means of tiles or slates. Flowers in July. Height, 11/2 ft.
Mistletoe.--Raise the bark of an apple, pear, or oak tree on the
underneath part of a branch and insert some well-ripened berries, then
tie the bark down neatly with raffia or woollen yarn. If the berries
were inserted on the top of the branch the operation would result in
failure, as the birds would devour them.
Mitella Diphylla.--A hardy perennial which bears slender racemes of
white flowers in April. It makes a pretty rock plant, delights in a
peat soil, and is increased by division of the root. Height, 6 in.
Moles.--These pests may be destroyed by placing in their runs worms
that have been kept for some time in mould to which carbonate of
barytes has been added.