Meaning: This quote by Robert Fortune, a Scottish botanist and plant collector, provides insight into the process of cultivating plants and the care taken to select the best specimens for potting. Robert Fortune is best known for his extensive travels to China and his efforts to introduce Chinese tea plants to India, which significantly impacted the global tea industry. However, his work also encompassed the study and cultivation of various other plants, making his insights into horticulture and plant care particularly valuable.

In the quote, Fortune uses the term "suckers" to refer to young plants or shoots that have developed roots in the open ground or a nursery setting. This suggests that the plants have reached a stage of growth where they are ready for further attention and care. The term "nursery" here likely refers to a controlled environment where young plants are cultivated and nurtured before being transplanted into their final growing locations.

Fortune's description of the process of selecting the best plants for potting highlights the importance of careful observation and discernment in horticulture. When the plants have sufficiently established themselves, they are scrutinized, and the most promising specimens are chosen for potting. This selection process is crucial for ensuring the health and vitality of the plants as they continue to grow.

The meticulous care taken in selecting the best plants for potting reflects a broader philosophy of horticulture that emphasizes quality and attention to detail. By identifying and nurturing the most robust and healthy plants, horticulturists can create thriving and resilient populations, whether for agricultural, ornamental, or scientific purposes.

Fortune's expertise and experience in plant cultivation lend weight to his words, as he was a pioneering figure in the field of horticulture and had a deep understanding of the intricacies of plant care. His work in introducing new plant species and developing horticultural techniques has had a lasting impact on the global flora and the practices of cultivation.

In conclusion, Robert Fortune's quote offers a glimpse into the careful and considered approach to plant care and cultivation. His emphasis on selecting the best plants for potting underscores the significance of quality in horticulture and the importance of attentive stewardship in nurturing plant life. This philosophy continues to resonate in modern horticultural practices, reminding us of the wisdom and insight of those who have dedicated their lives to understanding and nurturing the natural world.