214 ORNAME>?^TAL GARDENING. 



RAISED GEOMETRIC BEDS. 



The modern style of raised geometric beds, one of 

 which is represented by figure 61, are ornamental in the 

 highest degree when well designed and planted and prop- 

 erly cared for. The one shown in the engraving, 

 sketched in Mt. Auburn Cemetery, near Boston, was 

 about two and a half feet high at the foot of the plant 

 vase, and all parts of it thickly planted with Echeverias, 

 Othonna, Dracenas, Sedums and a few other low plants. 



Fig. Gl. — AN ELABOKATE, ELEVATED BED. 



The graceful outlines and excellent proportions, the 

 slopes and surfaces of various forms and angles, and the 

 contrast between delicate colors, shown in the com- 

 positions, together contributed to an effect at once quietly 

 pleasing, rich and beautiful. 



There is no limit to the variety and pleasing effects 

 that may be secured in this style, in designs marked 

 either by simplicity or by elaboration. A very simple, 

 yet effective form, consists of a series of circular terraces 

 placed stair-like, one above another, each a foot high 

 with the bottom one eight, the next six and a half, 

 then five feet, three and a half and two feet across re- 

 spectively, with a large Dracena or Agave at the top, 

 crowning all. The level parts planted with Alteman- 

 theras, and the almost perpendicular slopes with Eche- 

 verias, produce a very fine result. 



