BOUVARDIAS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 20976, 12 September 1931, Page 8 (Supplement)

BOUVARDIAS.

GORGEOUS BLOOMS. * Bouvardias are a beautiful genus of dwarf-growing perennial plants. They produce their brilliant- and effective flowers in the greatest profusion during tho autumn and early winter, and are useful for the flower beds and borders where they can be grown in the open ground. Unfortunately thev are not sufficiently hardy to withstand severe frosts without some protection. In several instances where the tops have been killed they shoot again from just below the surface. Some litter or matting placed over them during frosty weather will save them. In the colder districts, if grown outside, it is necessary to take the plants up and pot them, or place them under some protection and replant in the spring after the frosts aro over.

In partially frost-free localities, bouvardias are successfully planted in the autumn when the plants are in full flower and have been prepared for removal. Otherwise, toward the end of this month and during October is the best time to plant, when the soil and atmosphere is warmer. All the varieties with the exception of Humboldtii corymbeflora and magniflca, require to bo pruned hard back. This is essential to promote healthy vigorous growth and floriferouaness. Grown in pots, bouvardias arc most useful plants for the decoration of the greenhouse or conservatory, and are extensively cultivated for the purpose. A cool greenhouse and moist atmosphere is most suitable. Grown in pots they are liable to the attacks of red spider and greenfly, necessitating occasional syringing. I j