HOLIDAY TIME

Evening Post, Volume CXXVI, Issue 150, 22 December 1938, Page 22 (Supplement)

HOLIDAY TIME

Spic and Span Worries

BEFORE going away ruthlessly remove bud and blossom from all plants such as antirrhinums, violas, carnations, sweet-peas, roses, and all annuals which give a succession of bloom. , This will encourage them to start again, so that there will be another good display in a few weeks. All indoor plants should be well soaked, pots as well. Then tie a piece of soaked flannel round the pots. Put in a cool place away from sunny windows.

Most people do not care to advertise their absence from home by drawing, curtains and blinds. The use of newspapers and dust-sheets will prevent damage to furniture and carpets by sun, moths, soot, and dust. Stuff plenty of newspapers up all chimneys, and remove them carefully on returning, as there is sure to be an accumulation of soot. Spread newspapers on all small rugs and carpets and roll them up. Cover all furniture and upholstery with newspapers or dustsheets, especially where the sun shines. Large carpets should be rolled back from the fireplace where possible. Fitted carpets should be covered with newspapers. It is a good plan to rub knobs and metal fittings with linseed oil to prevent tarnishing.

Perishable foods not eaten should be burnt or given away. Half-finished pots of jam and marmalade attract flies and moths. All dry food should be put in airtight tins or stoppered glass jars. Most dry foods will keep for some time if stored well, and it is best to keep some foods in readiness rather than have to order immediately. Also be sure to have some tins and bottles in the larder, including soup, so that something hot can be prepared in case of arriving late or at the weekend. ..■■■•