



IN THE FLOWER GARDEN. 



^UR last niontli's Calendar contains many things that 

 will require attention this month ; we refer our 

 readers to it. Proceed, however, in removing shrubs, planting 

 edgings, laying turf, cutting the grass edges of walks, rolling grass- 

 plots, &c. Shrubs requiring increase by layers may be done now, 

 in a similar way to the Carnation ; some of the tough-wooded 

 kinds do well by having the branch twisted at the part where the cut 

 in laying would have been made. All pereimial and biennial border 

 plants which it may be desirable to increase should be parted at once. 

 Add fresh loam, leaf-mould, rotten dung, &c., to beds, before sowing 

 seeds or re-planiing. Now is the time to decide upon some arrange- 

 ment of plants for the beds of the flower-garden, in order to give plenty 

 of time to prepare a stock of those required. Hardy annuals, to bloom 

 early in the summer, may be sown in sheltered situations. Cover 

 ' them with finely-sifted soil, and press it gently down on the seeds. 

 Finish pruning Roses. Take especial care to be providing plants of 

 every class required for bedding out on lawns, flower-gardens, &c., in 

 April or early in May. No delay must be allowed. German Asters, 

 Geraniums, Stocks, &c. 



Florists' Floweks. — At this time Auriculas and Polyanthuses 

 that were top-dressed, and since received due attention, will liave com- 

 menced growing. Admit air on all favourable occasions, to prevent 

 them being drawn. Manure water should be given once a-week, 

 taking care it is not poured upon the foliage. Sheep's-dung, put into 

 a tub, and soft water poured upon it, in quantity so as it forms a strong 

 liquid, is very serviceable. The dung must be collected for a few 

 weeks before using. Old cow-dung will also answer the same purpose. 

 Sow seeds of the above. 



Anemonies and Ranunculuses must be finished planting immediately. 

 If no bed has been prepared for them, it may be made by taking out 

 the soil to the depth of fifteen or eighteen inches, and replacing it at 

 the bottom with a layer three or four inches thick of cow-dung, and 

 filling up with soil composed of decayed turfs taken from a loamy 

 pasture. Such as were planted in the autumn will now be making 

 their appearance above ground. It is very necessary to keep the soil 

 closed firmly round the crown of the plant ; when this is neglected the 

 bloom sutlers. Should the weather be severe, protection will still be 

 requisite. Tulips require continued attention, as directed last month. 

 Any that happen to be atfected with canker will appear sickly ; the 

 roots should be examined, and the damaged part cut clean out. If left 



