THIRD ANNUAL YEAR BOOK — PART X. 



609 



and then the cost of caring for the annuals is much more than the 

 shrubs. 



Among the various hardy shrubs used for planting on station grounds 

 are hydrangea, Philadelphus grandiflora, weigelia, tamarlx, cut leaved 

 sumach, lonicera, barberries and spiraeas and a few more of the very at- 

 tractive, hardy shrubs. 



While in Minneapolis this summer I was very much pleased to see 

 planted around the flagman's shanties at the street railway crossing a 

 small area of annual plants. This was a very attractive sight while pass- 

 ing through the dusty, dirty railroad yards. It was a relief to see, now and 

 then, a bright, attractive spot to break the dull monotony of the surround- 

 ings, such as cinders and gravel. 



Railroad planting, approach to railway station at Ames. 



Railroad managers are beginning to recognize the fact that no more 

 effective advertising can be done than by replacing unsightly objects, such 

 as are common along the system, by the planting of shrubbery and va- 

 rious ornamental plants. 



The railroad gardens should be planted by competent gardeners who 

 have a knowledge of trees and shrubs, and understand grouping, planting, 

 etc., of the same. This may require a great outlay of money at the 

 outset, but after once well established the cost of mantaining it will be 

 small and it will remain beautiful and attractive for many years. 



