144 THE FLORAL WORLD AND GARDEN GUIDE. 
to be enclosed with a band of yellow leafage. It is of course 
desirable to have as great a variety as possible in small gardens, 
nevertheless, all the beds forming a series by the side of walks, 
should have an edging nearly, if not exactly alike, for the general 
effect is wonderfully improved by the uniformity in appearance. 
Or if this course is objected to, two distinct styles of edging may 
be adopted and arranged alternately. W. 
HARDY PRIMROSES. 
BY WILLIAM COLE, GROVE VINEYARD, FELTHAM. 
** Long as there’s a’sun that sets, 
Primroses will have their glory.” 
Worpsworru. 
[ARDY primroses of the types represented by Primula 
fz, acaulis or common primrose, and P. elatior, the garden 
| =polyanthus, although not so showy as the daisies alluded 
to last month, form a most useful class of plants for 
spring bedding. Consequently since the embellish- 
ment of the flower garden during the spring months has become 
popular, they have obtained increased attention and a large number 
of most beautiful varieties have been raised. In addition, several of 
most distinct form have been introduced, some of which make grand 
bedders. There is, for example, several varieties of Primula cortu- 
soides, which beyond doubt are sufficiently hardy for planting in the 
flower garden. The value of the various forms to which allusion is 
here made, is not confined to their adaptability for bedding pur- 
poses, they may all be cultivated most successfully in pots, and 
when so grown, are extremely beautiful, as was exemplified by the 
collections exhibited by Mr. R. Dean of Ealing, at the show of 
spring flowers held at the Westminster Aquarium on April 12th 
and 18th. They are especially adapted to the requirements of 
those amateurs who have only a small pit or a cool house for the 
cultivation of plants, for they require no artificial heat, and a large 
collection may be grown in a comparatively small space. They are 
indeed so hardy that they may be grown entirely out of doors, but 
when grown under glass, the colours of the flowers are usually more 
fully developed; and as they are sheltered from the stormy weather 
often experienced, as was the case this year, when they are in 
bloom they remain in perfection much longer. Moreover the 
flowers can be examined in a more leisurely manner than is possible 
when they are planted in the open border or beds. 
With the several forms already mentioned, may be associated 
Primula Japonica, one of the most noble of all the primroses, and 
Primula viscosa and other of the small growing species of which 
there are a dozen or so in cultivation. 
A small span roof-house filled with primroses, will, from February 
until May, present a remarkably attractive appearance, and afford 
a rare treat to those who estimate flowers according to their beauty 
rather than their monetary value. 
