82 SCHOOL AND HOME GARDENS 



varies from plain green to silvery and yellow. The flowers 

 are of many colors. Some are deep, rich, and velvety, 

 while others are white, red, and blue of various tints. 



Sowing. For early planting, sow seeds in window 

 boxes two or three weeks before the soil is in good con- 

 dition in the garden. Sow out of doors when danger 

 from frost is over. The Japanese varieties are slightly 

 more tender than the old kinds. Thin the plants to 

 from four to six inches apart, according to the variety. 

 Soak seeds of the Japanese varieties in warm water for 

 several hours before sowing, or file a small aperture in 

 the horny covering of each seed. 



THE MOONFLOWER 



The moonflower (Ipomoea) is similar to the morning- 

 glory, but it makes a much more vigorous growth. The 

 leaves are large, frequently measuring six inches across. 

 The large white flowers open soon after sundown and 

 close the next morning. The effect, particularly by 

 moonlight, is very beautiful. With good soil and plenty 

 of moisture the plant will make a growth of from fifty to 

 seventy feet, according to the variety. It is especially 

 desirable for large piazzas. 



Sowing. Sow the seeds in boxes and transplant, or 

 sow out of doors when the ground is warm. Thin to 

 ten or twelve inches apart. Before sowing, soak the 

 seeds for several hours in warm water or file a small 

 aperture in the horny covering. 



