I30 ROCK GARDENS 



the following spring, for then a whole season's 

 growth is gained. Even if sown as late as 

 the beginning of August, the seedling ought 

 to be strong enough to take care of itself 

 during the winter. Yet it is not advisable to 

 sow in the open so late in the season except 

 in the case of seed from plants of a hardy 

 nature, which germinates quickly. 



The seed-bed, which should not be more 

 than 4 feet wide, will require to be carefully 

 prepared, in some warm but sheltered position. 

 Dig the soil well to a depth of 8 inches, 

 making it as friable as possible ; clean the 

 ground well, removing all weeds and large 

 stones, and, if not naturally light, add plenty 

 of sand and leaf-mould. Over this put a 

 layer about 4 inches thick of a good light 

 compost made up of loam, leaf-mould, sand, 

 and refuse from the potting bench. This 

 mixture should be all put through a l- 

 inch riddle. Now level the surface of the 

 bed, which will be ready for the seeds. 

 Choose a day for sowing in calm, mild, and 

 open weather, when the ground is rather 

 dry and in good friable condition. Make 



