Ranunculus comprises an extensive genus of herbaceous plants, giving name to the order Ranunculaceae, better known as the Buttercup - Crowfoot. In this order we have many other beautiful plants, such as the Clematis, Anemone, Delphinium and Paeonia. I will refer here only to the cultivated species of Buttercups, Ranunculus Asiaticus, which afford the endless varieties of Ranunculus grown by florists, namely: The Turkish, Persian, and the double French. The above may be classed as tender herbaceous. Some of the varieties are truly magnificent, and when well grown the flowers will measure from 2 1/2 to 3 inches in diameter. The flowers will last from ten days to two weeks in perfection. Their season of blooming is from March to May. For symmetry of form, and brilliancy of color in almost all of the hues known among flowers, the Ranunculus is probably unequalled by any other. For pot cultivation, use one-third well rotted cow manure, one third good garden mould, to which a little sand may be added. In potting, use five-inch pots. Three tubers may be placed in each, near the edge, and then covered with one-half inch of the soil above recommended.

As the tubers when received from the seedsman are dried and wilted looking, it is best to sprinkle and keep moist eight or ten hours before potting, otherwise they are apt to push themselves out of the soil when watered. After potting and watering, they should be placed in a cool, moist place, near the glass, and watered carefully until they start to grow. Keep a lookout for snails, for, like the peach borer, they have a "soft place in their heart " for the root. The secret of success with Ranunculus is in keeping them cool until the flower stems show four or five inches above the foliage. The night temperature should not exceed 450 to 500. At this stage, it may be increased to 6o0, or 100 more by day, with sun. They require plenty of air on all favorable occasions. Before the flowers expand they should be supported with light sticks. Like many other flowers, the Buttercup will close up at night, and if kept in the dark will not open. Therefore give plenty of light at all seasons. After the flowers have decayed, the plants should be thrown away, as good tubers are easily and cheaply obtained. It will not pay to keep them over for next year's blooming.

Maud P. O., Bucks Co., Pa.