THE HARDY PERENNIALS 



95 



north or east of trees or shrubs is a good place for Peonies. 

 They require a very rich soil: before planting the bed 

 should be dug out to a 

 depth of three feet and a 

 good compost placed in the 

 bottom. Newly set plants do 

 not reach their full develop- 

 ment for several years, so 

 that when once established 

 they should not be disturbed 

 for a long time. The blos- 

 soming period extends 

 through May and June. The 

 flowers develop to best ad- 

 vantage if the stems are cut 

 before the bud opens and 

 placed in water in a cool room 

 away from direct sunshine. 



Peonies are multiplied by Perennial Phlox 



divisions of the erect, thickened roots tocks. 



Phloxes and Irises 



The Perennial Phloxes deserve the popularity they 

 have long had as favorite flowers for border gardens. 

 They are inexpensive and easy to establish and the 

 plants continue thrifty for many years. The long 

 panicles of lovely blossoms make a very attractive 

 display out of doors and remain in good condition for 

 many days when cut for indoor decoration. They 

 multiply by division at the root, so that a good-sized 

 clump will furnish many new plants. SeedUngs are not 

 so Ukely to yield good flowers. Phloxes thrive best in 



