COMING SHOWS.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XLVII, Issue 5, 31 January 1912, Page 39

COMING SHOWS.

Canterbury Horticultural Society. — Carnation and Sweet Pea Exhibition, January, 1912. Miss E. Sneyd Smith, Secretary. Timaru Horticultural Society.— Autumn Show, Olympia Hall, February 15 and 16, 1912. Jaa. K. Macdonald, Hon. Sec. Hamilton Horticultural Society.— Autumn Show, April 1912. E. B. Davy, Hon. Sec. HORTICULTURAL NOTES. Pentstemoiis are worthy of much more attention than they have received of recent years in this Dominion. Vast improvements have been made in the size and beauty of the bloom spikes, and really good sorts can be obtained by sowing seed which has been saved from a good collection. Winter flowering—or. as we generally know them, spring flowering—sweet peas should not be neglected where early .blooms are in demand. The Spencer form has been secured in this useful class. These are said to bloom much longer than the original, and to be more vigorous in growth. Pansy seed should be sown as soon as possible. This favourite flower can be grown by anyone without much trouble. The seed may be sown in the open or in boxes or pans. Always buy the best seed procurable.

Stocks for early .bloom should be attended to. A position should be chosen which is thoroughly drained. Avoid green or unfermented manure. A piece of new ground which has been well worked gives good- results. The varieties of ton-week ami Crompton stock are exceedingly numerous, and all of them beautiful. Really good petunias are difficult to secure from seed, and whim one does succeed in getting a few good plants they should be carefully marked and cuttings taken. These can be inserted in half sand under glass in autumn ami wintered indoors, or plants can be protected tbiougb the xvint-r and cuttings taken in the spring. Carnation layering should bo well in hand, so as to ensure strong, well-rooted layers. Chrysanthemums ami dahlia- will need constant attention. (Jive plenty water ami mulch. Attend to tying up to stakes to prevent the wind swaying them about. The ground, for daffodils should be got ready. Dig deep or trench, and leave rough for the sun to sweeten. A light dressing of basic slag should be dug in some time before the bulbs are planted. A small patch of mignonette seed may be sown for autumn flowering. This fine old favourite should be grown in abundance. and a pinch of seed, sown at intervals will keep up the supply of flower*.