Imagine my delight when attending a recent HPS Group meeting, I came across an Amateur Gardening book on Plant Propagation edited by A. G. L. Hellyer.
Published nearly sixty years ago, in 1955, I know that many of these Amateur Gardening Books were 'compiled' from various articles previously printed in the magazine.
Although I knew it was there, I was delighted to turn to the inner flap of the back dust sleeve cover to see a picture of my father, sitting at his desk, looking very handsome, smart and exactly how I remember him all those years ago.
I am certain that, if I had this book on my shelf when I began propagating I would have used it.
As I know that his garden in Sussex was used for 'photo shoots' I am certain that the apple trees are at Orchards and my mother's hands feature in some of the illustrations.
The lady who owned the book assured me that although very old the propagation methods were current. I was buying the book anyway, it is one that I do not have on my shelves.
I was intrigued by one method of propagation that I knew nothing about. Polythene film, as another method of taking root cuttings. An ideal method for those with little space for propagation.
What a neat little bundle...
Picture copyright to W.H. & L. Collingridge Limited London
How great to come across that book!
ReplyDeleteGood idea too. I'm guilty of tugging out my cuttings to see if they've rooted and risking destroying the roots if they have so love the idea of being able to watch them form.
I like the idea of saving propagation space too. There were other methods in the book too...shame I no longer have the space...
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