34 STATE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. 



as the interiors. Tastes vary, sentim nts differ as to styles of lawns 

 and their decoration, yet all may be in accordance with such harmoni- 

 ous design as to present a pleasing effect. It may not be just to judge 

 a man's character for industry by the condition of his premises, but 

 we may determine the degree of his appreciation of refinement and his 

 estimate of the value of substantial improvement by the condition of 

 his lawn. 



The old adage that '• time is money," is not altogether true. Time 

 is more than money, for money can never buy it. The estimate we 

 place on a work that requires time to accomplish it, is in accordance 

 with the amount of time required in its construction. Lawns must 

 grow, trees must be brought to beauty of form by euch a system of 

 training and such attention to their requirments as their individual 

 condition demand. 



A proper consl ruction of a successful lawn depends upon the 

 beginning of the work. The nature of tlie material composing the soil, 

 the depth of the soil, its conviences for drainage are the materials on 

 which depend the success of the enterprise. Having found or arranged 

 these requisits, plow or spade deeply and level the surface. Roll the 

 soil firmly and sow evenly with the seed of such grass as is desired. 

 "Fra compressa" or blue grass is recognized as most dense and per- 

 sistent when established, and most admired for its color and tenacity. 

 After sowing the seed again roll or press the earth firmly on the sur- 

 face without harrowing, leaving the surface firm and smooth. I am 

 particular in describing this preparatory part of the work, because I am 

 convinced that many err in leaving the soil so loose as to cause the 

 seed to germinate and perish before sending its roots into the earth. 



If a light covering of leaf mold from the woods be added, and an 

 occasional watering be given, the preparatory work may be considered 

 done. The proper time for sowing the seed of most hardy grasses is 

 as early in the spring as it is possible to prepare the soil. 



Plans for laying off grounds may be used as suggestive, but it 

 must be remembered that the chief design of every lawn should be 

 comfort and convenience to the occupants of the premises, with such 

 arrangement of its decorations as the owner's tastes may direct. As 

 far as possible work with nature. Plant specimen trees designed for 

 effect, with a view to the proper growth and development of their 

 forms. Plant hedges and border with such low-growing trees or plants 

 as will submit to pruning and density of growth. American Arbor 

 Vitae may be used, where a permanent screen or shelter is desired. 

 Pyrus Japonica or Japan Quince makes a hardy, dense ornamental 

 hedge, producing pretty rose or white-colored flowers in spring, bright, 



