SOLANUM

Annual and perennial; half-hardy



Solanums are of importance, some as greenhouse plants, and others as

sub-tropical bedders. They are somewhat tender in constitution, and must

have good cultivation in a light rich soil. A sharp look-out for red

spider is necessary, for this pest is very partial to Solanums. March is

early enough to sow the seed, but for ordinary purposes April is to be

preferred. By the middle of June the plants should be strong enough to

put out, and with genial weather will make rapid progress. Those grown

for their berries may be sown from February onwards, as it is important

to secure bushy plants before they begin to flower, and an early start

insures an early ripening of the bright, handsome fruit.