CHAPTER XX. 



THE GARDEN. 



Time for Gardening 1 . April Work. Uncovering Bulbs. Preparation of 

 Border. Dividing Herbaceous Plants. Grass Edgings. Manuring. 

 Weeding. Watering. Temperature of Water. Staking. Trim- 

 ming. Soil. Shade. Situation. 



and ice at last have disappeared, 

 and with the first opening of spring 

 there is usually an ardent desire devel- 

 oped for working in the flower garden ; 

 the spades, rakes, and hoes are called 

 into requisition, and the close, heavy 

 soil receives a vigorous upturning, and the garden is put 

 in order. 



All too soon, however ; there are yet to be cold rains 

 and, perchance, chilling snows. The young shoots of 

 the herbaceous plants are not benefited by being deprived 

 of the protecting dead foliage of the last year ; and the 

 tender plants, covered during the winter, are not im- 



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