reading a layer of stable manure, about 3 in.
deep, over the roots of trees and plants in the autumn to keep them
warm and moist. The manure may be forked into the soil in the spring.

Watering the plants carefully is of great consequence. Evening or
early morning is the best time, and one copious application is far
better than little and often. Water may be given to the _roots_ at any
time, but should not be sprinkled over the leaves in a hot sun nor in
cold weather. Plants having a soft or woolly foliage should never be
wetted overhead, but those with hard and shiny leaves may be freely
syringed, especially when in full growth.

Solanum.--Showy greenhouse shrubs, some of which have ornamental
foliage. The soil in which they are grown should be light and rich.
Cuttings planted in sand under glass strike readily. The tender annual
varieties may be sown on a hotbed in spring, and placed in the border
at the end of May in a dry, sheltered situation, where they will
flower in June. Height, 1 ft. and upwards.

Soldanellas.--These small herbaceous perennials should find a place in
all Alpine collections. They grow best in sandy peat, or in leaf-mould
with a liberal addition of sand, and they require a moderate amount of
moisture. They may be increased by dividing the roots in April. They
flower from March to May. Height, 4 in. or 5 in.

Solidago (_Golden Rod_).--A useful hardy perennial for the back of
borders. Throughout late summer and autumn it produces masses of
golden flowers. It is not over-particular as to soil, and may be
increased by dividing the root in the spring. It increases very
rapidly. Height, 2 ft. to 6 ft.

Solomon's Seal (_Polygonatum Multiflorum_).--A graceful hardy plant
bearing white pendulent flowers on long curving stems. Plant freely
in light, rich soil, in a shady position or under trees. The plants
should not be disturbed, even by digging among the roots. Flowers in
May. Height, 2 ft.

Soot-Water.--For room and window plants soot-water has this advantage
over coarse animal manures, that while the latter are unhealthy and
apt to taint the air, the former is purifying and has no unpleasant
smell. It is easily made by tying a little soot in a coarse canvas bag
and immersing it in a pail of water. It should be applied in a clear,
thin state to plants in bud or in full growth during the summer
months.

Sorrel.--Sow in March or April in any garden soil, thin out to 1 ft.
apart. It is desirable t