LITTL.E GARDENS 



low primrose and primula polyanthus, like the 

 English cowslip, are hardy with us. The fuch- 

 sias, too: every one likes them, with their deli- 

 cate, drooping bells of red and white, but it takes 

 a year to raise them from seed, and they are sel- 

 dom kept after their first flowering, though the 

 fuchsia variegata Is commended as a hardy kind 

 that will live out of doors and take care of Itself. 

 The cockscomb, or celosia, is such a magnificent 

 piece of color that It ought to be in every garden. 

 Both the red and orange varieties are available 

 In borders, though their hues are so strong that 

 they are apt to dull the tints of milder colored 

 flowers in the vicinity. It is a delicate plant, for 

 all the bristling of its crest, and must be guarded 

 against frost and dryness. There is much charm 

 In our common balsam despite the habit of Its 

 flowers In clinging close against the stalks, and 

 so showing less of themselves than if they jutted 

 boldly into view, like zinnias. It is to be sown 

 so soon as mild weather Is assured. Not only Is 

 the color of the balsam pure and delightful, but 

 the texture of Its petals Is singularly pearly, and 

 the white Is as tender as the white of a summer 

 cloud. 



196 



