1 8 ROCK GARDENS 



the state of the quarried face of the rock. By 

 this is meant, whether it is much broken in 

 outhne or presents a sheer, perpendicular face. 

 It should be rough and jagged, so as to give a 

 number of ledges — the more numerous they 

 are and the greater their variety the better — 

 forming steps or terraces, by v^hich easy access 

 can be had to all parts. Otherwise it will 

 probably be necessary to plant the alpines and 

 examine them from the steps of a ladder, which, 

 to say the least, is not desirable. But, bad as 

 a too smooth surface may be, an overhanging 

 rock face is even worse. An odd protruding 

 ledge here and there does not so much matter, 

 in fact they may prove of service, but even 

 they should not be of sufficient size to prevent 

 the rain from reaching the plants below. The 

 whole tendency of the rock should be to slope 

 back from the ground at the foot, for it is 

 necessary that rain should have access to every 

 part. Though it is wonderful in what ap- 

 parently dry and arid spots alpines will thrive, it 

 is certain that their roots must find moisture 

 somewhere. Few people realise to what an 

 extent rocks retain moisture even during a dry 



