Mammoth Freesias.
In reply to Mrs. J. F. S., in the January Magazine, concerning mammoth freesias, I will say I have had them two years. I do not find the bulb any larger than the ordinary variety but they produce more flowers—I had from three to five clusters from each bulb; they bloom about two weeks earlier and the flowers are a little larger than the others. I like to grow them with the others to have a succession of bloom. I have never failed with freesias, and think Mrs. J. F. S. has made some mistake in their treatment. Plant an inch deep in a rich soil, place them in the dark until they have sprouted, then place next the glass in a south or east window. Keep the pots in deep saucers and fill the latter with hot water every morning. One great secret is to keep their feet warm. Many people do not give them enough water, they require a great deal. If any remains in the saucer from the day before throw it out and give fresh. If water is poured on the soil it should always be warmer than the air. In this way I have an abundance of large perfect flowers, the clusters sometimes remaining perfect for three weeks. As a last word, have good drainage and give plenty of heat and water. I think your Magazine is invaluable.
Mrs. C. H. J.
Crestline, Ohio.
THE SWINE AND THE FLOWER.
I shrank to meet a mud-encrusted swine,
And then he seemed to grunt in accents rude,
“Huh! Be not proud, for in this fat of mine,
Behold the source of richness for your food!”