Sand
The use and value of Sand for plant-propagation, and for intermixing with composts, &c., generally, are known to nearly every gardener. Sand tends to insure porosity, by keeping composts open, and, when laid over the surface of pans or pots prepared for cuttings, settles more closely, on being watered, than does soil, and so holds the cuttings firm, and excludes air. Numerous sorts of cuttings are rooted best in Sand alone, as this substance contains nothing which can decompose, and prevent the formation of roots. While there is an advantage in this, Sand, on the other hand, contains in itself nothing nutritive for supporting plants; they must therefore be potted in soil, according as each may require, soon after roots are formed. Water is sufficient for supplying all that tender little rootlets need for a time, until the plants are sufficiently strong to be potted. Silver Sand is best, and is that most extensively used: the coarser it is, the better. Sand from the sea-coast is by some gardeners largely employed for propagating. Road Sand is invaluable for mixing in composts, especially those for growing such plants as Carnations; it is usually coarse and sharp, from being washed by heavy rains. Although Sand is so generally used in composts, yet its place may be taken with advantage by charcoal or charred soil, hen either is procurable. Charcoal is of an enduring nature, and possesses the property of absorbing gases, which Sand does not; it also acts most effectually in keeping a compost open. Sand is valuable for placing around tender bulbs when planting, to preserve them from injury by being in contact with decomposing substances in the soil, and to provide a ready means of escape for any undue accumulation of water.