o support the bulb,
while permitting the roots to grow down into the water. They come in
different shapes and colors and are not expensive.

_Hanging baskets._ Attractive baskets can now be had cheaply. They are
made of wire, rustic work or earthenware, and no plant lover should be
without one or two, as they offer a most effective way of displaying
plants. Use picture wire to support them, as cord is apt to rot and
break. They should be hung so as to be easily taken down.

_Boxes._ While these may be homemade, as described on page 9, it is
often desirable to purchase one of the ornamental sorts now on the
market. Many of them are hideous, but there are artistically designed
ones. The "self-watering" box is a great labor-saver and well worth
getting where one can afford the investment, as they will last for
years.

FOR HANDLING PLANTS

In addition to the above there are a number of other devices often
convenient to use.

_Brackets_, frequently make possible the accommodation of a number of
extra plants and show them off to the best advantage, especially vines
and drooping plants. They are readily secured by screws to the window
casing.

_Pot-hangers_, can be had for a few cents each and used to convert pots
of any size into "Hanging baskets." They very often solve the problem of
what to do with a choice plant that is beginning to take up too much
room.

_Pot-covers_, made of water-proof material are now to be had in a great
assortment of styles and colors and are very useful, especially in
connection with potted plants used as gifts.

_Plant-stakes._ Often any old stake is used for supporting drooping
plants, such as fuchsias. A much better one can easily be made by taking
a round stick, say one-half or three-fourths of an inch in diameter and
boring small holes through it with a gimlet. Stout pieces of wire, of a
size that will fit snugly are inserted and twisted once around to
reinforce the wood. These may then be bent readily to any angle and thus
made to conform with needs of the particular plant being supported. If
one has a soldering outfit, the main stake may be made of heavy wire.

_Raffia._ This may be bought cheaply at the florist's and is much better
than twine for tying up plants and similar purposes, as it is soft and
broad--a dried, ribbon-like grass. It may be had stained green and with
green stakes makes the support of a plant practically invisible.

_Syringe._ If only a few plants are kep