MAIN COLLECTION OF ALPINES. 39 



had convenient to the rock-work, I beg to make a 

 few remarks regarding a situation for this purpose. 



A great space is not required, though the collec- 

 tion be very extensive, as they take up little room 

 when in pots. The spot where the greenhouse plants 

 are sometimes placed in Summer, may be rendered 

 a suitable situation for Alpines also; but where this 

 cannot be spared, or where there is no greenhouse, a 

 separate situation for themselves must be sought. 



Should a site not naturally suitable present itself, 

 it must be rendered so artificially ; on the south 

 side of this locality it is requisite to have a belt, or 

 clump of shrubs and trees, planted promiscuously, to 

 prevent the sun in Summer from beating too intense 

 upon the plants, and consequently causing excessive 

 evaporation. By being thus partially shaded, they 

 are kept in a moist and cool state. The north side 

 ought also to be sheltered, at some distance from 

 where the plants are placed. 



The space where the plants are intended to be 

 placed, must be covered with a stratum, composed of 

 a mixture of clay, coal ashes, and a little lime (in 

 the same way that cottage floors are sometimes done), 

 and beat down firmly; then a coat of ashes finely, 

 riddled, can be laid on, previous to placing the 

 plants on it. This prevents worms, slugs, and other 

 vermin visiting the spot. 



In order to protect the plants from frost, and very 

 heavy rains, a frame of some description is neces- 

 sary. I have seen a frame of wood serve admirably 



