A decade or so ago the predominant colours found in Eschscholtzias were yellow and orange, but in recent years a number of new and very attractive shades have been introduced, with the result that this plant is now regarded as indispensable for summer bedding and for borders.  The modern practice is to grow Eschscholtzias as annuals, sowing in the open during March and April.  As the seedlings do not readily transplant, the seed should be put in where the flowers are wanted.  Thin out in due course, allowing each plant ample space for development.  Sowings may also be made during September, from which the plants will bloom in advance of those raised in spring.

==Freesia==

==Half-hardy perennial==

The Freesia is another of the bulbous flowers easily raised from seed, and it may be had in bloom within six months from date of sowing.  Use a rich compost, and sow under glass in January, February, or March, as may best suit convenience.  Seed should be sown again in August, to supply flowers in spring or summer of the following year.  The brittleness of the roots makes re-potting a hazardous operation.  It is therefore wise to sow in 48-pots and thin to four or five plants in each, thus avoiding the need for shifting until after flowering has taken place.  When re-potting becomes imperative, it must be done with a gentle hand, and the bulbs ought to be carefully matched for each pot.  The position chosen for Freesias should be light and freely ventilated in mild weather, but they will not endure a cutting draught.  For further cultural notes see page 328.

==Fuchsia==

==Half-hardy perennial==

To raise Fuchsias from seed will be new practice to many; but it is both interesting and inexpensive, and every year it secures an increasing number of adherents.  Seed may be sown at almost any time of the year; if a start be made in January or February, the plants will bloom in July or August.  Soil for the seed-pots should be somewhat firm in texture, but a light rich compost ought to be employed when the plants come to be potted off, and the final shift should be into a mixture containing nearly one-third of decayed cow-manure.  For the early sowing we have named, a rather strong heat will be necessary to bring up the seed.  When large enough to handle, prick off the seedlings round the edges of 60-pots, putting about six plants into each pot.  Shade and moisture are requisite to give them a start after each transfer.  Subsequently they must be potted on as growth demands, until the final size is reached; and flowering will not commence so long as increased pot-room is given.  The growth must not be hurried, and the plants should at all times be kept free from vermin.  Seedlings having narrow pointed leaves may be consigned to the waste heap without scruple; but plants with short rounded foliage, especially if dark in colour, are almost certain to prove of high quality.