==Early-flowering Varieties.==—­By selection and cross-fertilisation an early-flowering race of Wallflowers has been obtained, and it is now possible to enjoy for many months of the year a fragrance which has hitherto been associated exclusively with spring.  From a sowing made in May or June the plants commence flowering in autumn and continue throughout the winter, unless checked by frost.  With the advent of spring weather, however, they burst into full bloom, making a delightful display in advance of the ordinary varieties.

==Wigandia==

==Half-hardy perennial==

This plant is grown for its foliage, and is extensively used in sub-tropical gardening.  The instructions given for raising Ricinus in heat apply equally to this subject; but it is not wise to rely on an open-air sowing for a supply of Wigandias.

==Zinnia==

==Zinnia elegans.  Half-hardy annual==

The double varieties of Zinnia have entirely eclipsed the single form of this flower.  They grow to an immense size and are extremely valuable for beds and borders, the plants remaining in bloom for a considerable period.  Double Zinnias are so varied in colour and beautiful in form that they deserve to take high rank as exhibition flowers.

The Zinnia is delicate, and should not be sown too soon.  March is quite early enough to commence operations, and the first week in April will be none too late for sowing.  A compost that suits Asters will answer admirably for Zinnias.  Sow in 4-1/2 inch pots, which should have very free drainage, and cover the seed thinly with fine soil.  Plunge the pots at once in a temperature of about 60 deg., when the seed will germinate quickly, and the plants on attaining one inch in height can be potted off separately.  Place them in a close frame, shade from sunshine, and when well established, gradually give air and harden off.  It will not be safe to transfer to the open until the first week in June, unless the position is exceptionally sheltered and the soil very dry.  A shrubbery border is a suitable spot, and the more scorching the season the finer will be the flowers.  There must, however, be shelter from the wind, for the stems of Zinnias are hollow, and easily damaged by a storm.

A satisfactory display of this flower may be obtained without the aid of heat by sowing in the open ground about the middle of May.  Select a sunny sloping border or bed for sowing, enrich the soil, and make it fine.  Press this down rather firmly, then drop three or four seeds at intervals of from fifteen to eighteen inches between each group, and lightly cover them.  In due time thin to one plant at each station.  If they thrive the branches will not only meet but overlap, and produce a grand display.  In the event of very dry weather at sowing time the ground may be watered before the seed is put in, and then be covered with dry fine soil.

Zinnias do not transplant well, except as small seedlings.  When it is necessary to undertake the task, choose, if possible, a showery day, and shade each plant with an inverted flower-pot for a few days, but take off the pots in the evening.