pinched out, so as to induce a bushy habit. It is necessary to keep
the roots well supplied with water. When the fruit is set, the growth
is stopped at the first joint beyond it. They are mostly treated as
greenhouse pot-plants, but may be grown in the open if planted on a
south border, in ridges like those made for cucumbers, and covered
with hand-glasses till established. The Aubergine is a tender annual.
Height, 2 ft.
Eggs of Insects, to Destroy.--Into 3 gallons of water stir 1/4 peck
of lime, 1/2 lb. of sulphur, and 1/2 lb. of tobacco. When settled,
syringe the trees and walls with the clear liquid. More water may be
added afterwards.
Eichhornia Crassipes Major.--A pretty and curious plant which may be
grown in bowls of water like the Chinese Lily. The stalks are bladders
about the size of a greengage, which enable the plant to float. The
flowers are soft lilac-rose in colour, and sparkle as if polished,
each one being about 2 in. in diameter. A little soil at the bottom of
the bowl is beneficial. It will flourish out of doors in summer.
Elder.--See "Sambucus."
Eleagnus.--Effective variegated shrubs which prove perfectly hardy
in the south of England. They grow in any ordinary soil, and are
increased by cuttings. Height, 10 ft.
Elsholtzia Cristata.--Hardy annuals of great value where there are
bees, the flowers being very sweet. Sow in the open in spring. Height,
1 ft.
Empetrum.--Small hardy evergreen shrubs requiring an elevated and
exposed position, and a dry, barren soil. They flower in May, and are
propagated by layers. Height, 1 ft.
Endive.--Sow at intervals from May till the end of August, but the
principal sowing, to stand the winter, should be made the first week
in August, giving the plants the protection of a frame. When the early
sown ones are 2 in. high transplant them to a rich nursery bed. When 4
in. high lift them carefully, with the soil round the roots, and place
them in drills about 3 in. deep and 1 ft. apart each way. Water well
immediately after planting, and keep the soil moist.
Epacris.--Pretty Heath-like shrubs. They like a sandy peat soil, and
plenty of moisture. The pots in which they grow should be provided
with ample drainage and stood in a larger-sized pot, with wet moss
between the two. As soon they have done blooming cut them back freely,
and when the fresh shoots are 2 or 3 in. long, pot them off, placing
them in a close, cool pit for three or four weeks. Gradually harden
off, then place them in a sunny situation out of doors, and remove
them to the conservatory in October. They only need sufficient heat to
keep out the frost. Cuttings of the young wood placed in sand with a
little bottom-heat will strike.