FOR THE WOMAN GARDENER

Wairarapa Times-Age, 11 December 1940, Page 2

FOR THE WOMAN GARDENER

SOME USEFUL HINTS. Prepare the ground now for winter and spring blooming stocks. These may be sown thinly, either in seed-boxes or in beds in the open, and the seedlings transplanted when they are about hree inches in height to ground that has been well limed. Lime induces hardy growth and good colour in the blooms All seedlings planted at this time should be protected from hot sun Ground should also be prepared now for the sowing of winter-flowering sweetpeas seeds of which may be sown th < ; The SOiI lor these must b o free, but firm, and must have good drainage It should be dug two spades deep, and manure should be incorporated with the lower soil. Ashes, decayed vegetable matter, and superphosphate (2oz per yard) should be spread over the bed and forked well in Give chrysanthemums and dahlias, which should be making good growth now, regular applications of liquid manure. Many bulbs require to be lifted every year. Among these are babianas, begonias (tuberous rooted) crocus gladioli, ixias, ranunculi, sparaxis, and tigndias. All of these should be left in the ground till their foliage dies off before being lifted, except gladioli, which may be lifted six or seven weeks after flowering. Leave the foliage on