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 to cut away the flower-stems and to divide the
roots every two or three years. The plants may be forced for winter
use.
Southernwood (Artemisia Arborea).--Any soil suits this odoriferous
bush, and it is readily increased by cuttings or by division.
Sparaxis.--Closely allied to the Ixias, equally beautiful and varied
in colour, but rather dwarfer and compact in growth. Invaluable for
pot-culture. For outdoor cultivation plant them early in September,
5 or 6 in. deep, on a sheltered border, in rich, well-drained, loamy
soil. Protect from frost and wet in the winter, but keep the roots
moist while they are growing. For indoor cultivation plant four to six
bulbs in a 5-in. pot, plunge in ashes in a cold frame, withholding
water till the plants appear. When making full growth remove them to
a sunny window or conservatory, and water them carefully. They will
bloom in March or April. Height, 3 ft.
Sparmannia Africana.--An exceedingly handsome and attractive
greenhouse evergreen shrub, thriving best in loam and peat. Cuttings
may be struck in sand under glass. May is its flowering season.
Height, 10 ft.
Spartium Junceum(Yellow Broom).--A hardy evergreen shrub which will
grow in any soil, and is propagated by seeds. It flowers in August.