FLOWER GARDEN

Hardy and half hardy perennial, easily raised from seed. The indoor or show varieties are always grown under glass . The soil should be good loam with some root fibre in it, about a third part of leaf-mould, some decayed hotbed manure, and a little sand for drainage.

Potting is generally done in spring, soon after the flowering is over, and the plants kept in a v frame facing north throughout the summer, but they are given a south exposure after the end of October. Towards the end of winter gentle heat may be given, but no attempt must be made to force. Water carefully as growth proceeds, and the reward will be a crop of exquisite blooms in March. A small brown grub often causes trouble, and this must be watched for and destroyed.

Propagation is by division after the flowering period, each of the crowns making a new plant.

For outdoor cultivation seedlings are generally sold under the name of border auriculas, but a beautiful yellow strain is to be obtained separately. Border auriculas require to be sown in cold frames in February and planted out in a semi-shaded nursery bed in June if they are to make good plants for bedding out in autumn.

Border auriculas are charming in clumps along the front of herbaceous borders, and also in beds, where they may be associated with hardy primulas in spring. The plants may be lifted from the beds or borders towards the end of May, and planted in a reserve bed, preferably in a rather shady place.

Pron. Or-rik’-u-la.