WINDOW GAFDENING. \^*J 



This idea of roof gardens may be still farther carried out, and made more 

 permanently useful for winter as well as summer, by covering it all over with 

 glass ; then at any season of the year the flower-lover may repair here, and 

 always be sure of finding some green things to enliven the looks, while in sum- 

 mer the glass may be opened to the admission of fresh air and rain. 



If the amateur does not wish to go to so elaborate and expensive a construc- 

 tion, he may gratify his taste by the selection of large pots or boxes, fill them 

 with soil, and then place them upon the roof, filled with appropriate plants. 



Shrubs may be introduced here, such as the Dentzias, Spiraeas, or Weigelas; 

 but usually annual plants — i. e., those grown from seed — will do the best, like 

 Verbenas, Salvias, and climbing plants. Fuchsias, Heliotropes, and Geraniums 

 will always be appropriate. 



No prettier ornament to a house-top can be devised than to erect at each cor- 

 ner of the roof a pretty trellis. Let there be a rod or pole running across the 

 vacant space from one trellis to the other ; then at the bottom place a large tub 

 of earth, and in it start a few plants of Ivy, or the Scarlet Trumpet Creeper, or 

 the Wistaria. Keep them well watered, and their clambering tendrils, with 

 their rich leaves, will soon festoon the arbor, and render the roof an inviting 

 resort for all members of the family. The Ivy is much the simplest and safest 

 ornament of this description to use, and the amateur had better not try any- 

 thing else until he becomes more familiar with plant-culture and can make a 

 good selection for himself. 



