THE CULTURE AND VARIETIES OF ROSES. 47 



of planting, whether singly, in groups, or in beds, must be 

 governed by the circumstances of the individual planter, but does 

 not in any way affect the manner of setting in the ground. If 

 planted in groups the taller growing are best set in the centre, 

 or in the background, grading downwards to the outside ; if in 

 rows they should be at proper distances, so that each shall form a 

 specific object in itself, as well as a portion of the row. Planted 

 singly on the lawn they form beautiful objects, and ought to be 

 each distinct from the other, blooming at different periods ; but 

 where set in clumps or beds they make a greater show to blossom 

 at the same time. The situation for planting roses, especially the 

 tall growing sorts, should be one somewhat sheltered from strong- 

 winds, and the trellises or supports should be set out before 

 planting, and be firmly fixed in the ground. 



Pruning. The pruning of out-door roses is best performed in 

 March or April, and must be in accordance with the habits and 

 requirements of the particular variety. While some do best with 

 only moderate pruning, others require to have one-half or two-thirds 

 of the last season's growth removed ; but with all pruning a well 

 shaj)ed top should be kept in view ; this can be attained b}' a com- 

 bination of cutting and tying to position. The terminal bud at the 

 cut should be left in the position which will most readily promote 

 the growth of the desired form ; for instance, if a more spreading 

 form is desired, cut so as to leave the bud on the under or outer 

 side ; if a compact or upright head is sought, the reverse course 

 should be pursued. Strong, healthy wood is always desirable, 

 therefore in pruning cut out the weaker, reserving the strongest to 

 make the new growth from. Alwa^'s prune with a definite and 

 fixed form or object in view. Vary the pruning with the require- 

 ments of the different varieties, and also for the positions thej^ are 

 to occupy, whether as standards, over pillars, flat trellises, walls, 

 etc. If 3"0u desire quantity', regardless of quality in bloom, cut 

 and disbud sparingl3' ; but if quality is the first object, cut out all 

 weak wood, and then cut away all wood of last year's growth down 

 to one, or at most two eyes, and then you ma}* go still further and 

 cut out one-half of what is left. If with judicious priming your 

 roses do not produce magnificent blossoms you may conclude that 

 there is something wrong or wanting in the soil, provided the sea- 

 son is an average one. Perhaps it needs some fertilizer added ; 

 rich loam or decayed turf mixed with its bulk of rotted dung, is 



