OPERATIONS FOR THE WEEK.

Otago Witness, Issue 2507, 9 April 1902, Page 10

OPERATIONS FOR THE WEEK.

KITCHEN GAEDEN.— Rtmove dead leaves from the stems of the broccoli, winter greens, etc., and keep the ground between them free from weeds. Trim fences, clean walks, and form a heap of rubbish which can be charred in a smother. "When properly managed, a heap of weeds, etc., can be kept slowly burning for months, and as there is always a portion of BOil in the rubbish, the burnt earth and charred Tefuse forms a valuable top-dressing for onions Rnd other bulbous crops. FLOWER GARDEN.— The preparations for ■wintering bedding plants should now be completed. Although in most light soils verbenas ■will survive the winter, it is advisable to lift and pot a strong plant of distinct varieties to keep in a frame, so as to .furnish cuttings for spring propagation. Echeverias will wiatei 'f planted- in sand at the foot of a north wall, tr other shelter; but the tender Sedums, such a& •Azordeum varieatum and MesembryantheiiKiai aureum, must have the protection of glass and te kept dry. GREENHOUSE.— Cyclamens which i avc fceen placed on shelves near 'he glass wnl Se •showing the bloom buds. When watering, avoid wetting the leaves. If any of the buds ibeccme mouldy, remove them at once befcrs dt spreads to the others. Weak manure water once a week will cause the conns to throw a stronger bloom. When azaleas are removed to the house, remove all decayed leaves and let the pots be washed. Zonal pelargoniums .•which have been prepared sa adviped will now Ibe coining into bloom, and will be found valuable for cutting from as the supply fails from •the oper borders. Chrysanthemums in pots ure swelling their flower buds, and this is the lime to give them manure water and surfaceflressings of rich compost. Thin out the flower Ibuds where the;; are too crowded. Chinese primulas frequently begin to flower, when '.small plants; but this should not be permitted, as it prevents them increasing in size. Pinch out the flower trusses as soon as they appear. If there is any tc-ndency to damp off Et the neck, give more air and be careful in watering. It has been stated that to hang up onions in a vinery or where chrysanthemums are growing will not only prevent mildew, but remove any already there.