THE GREENHOUSE

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 75, Issue 118, 21 May 1932, Page 7 (Supplement)

THE GREENHOUSE

ATTENTION TO PLANTS. The season has again arrived when the change from warm, genial sunshine to increased moisture and colder weu-t-her will soon effect a change in many greenhouse plants. The change in the night temperature especially is soon felt by the more tender subjects. In dull weather almost every particle of shade should be removed, so that the plants can derive the full benefit; of the light. In fact, from this time onward throughout the winter light shade should only be used on bright, sunny days, and then only during the hottest part of the day. As the temperature decreases too much attention cannot be given to the matter of watering, which must be more carefully and judiciously .ipplied. During the winter, in any case, any watering that is required is better done in early morning, instead of evening, more especially with any of the more tender plants. At this time many bulbous and tuberous plants will bu going to rest, and will need to be sparingly watered until the tops fall away, when watering should cease and the pots be stored in a. dry place, free from drip. In potting plants at this season plenty of material for drainage should be placed in the bottom of the pots. This not only provides free outlet for surplus moisture, but allows the free access of air, which is essential to healthy root action. In potting it is not an advantage to give 100 great a shift, for even with quickgrowing plants a shift from one size to the next is sufficient, while poor-rooted plants arc often benefited by being placed in smaller-sized pots. After potting water must be sparingly died until fresh roots are formed.