328 



How to Make a Flower Garden 



in the mysteries of botanical lore ni order to obtain enjoyment in one's 

 intimacy with plant life. It is best to look upon plants as garden friends. 

 The hardy forms become in time old-established companions, for each 

 spring they arise from their slumber and greet you with renewed life. They 

 are like some dear friends returned from a distant journey, whose presence 

 we have missed. 



Not the least of garden pleasures is the exchange of surplus plants with 

 those of kindred tastes. 1 have many such cherished plants, some of which 



The side yard in 1890. Worthless trees scattered here and there. No view 



are from friends whom I have never seen. They are pleasant reminders of 

 their donors, and, under more constant observation than a photograph 

 hidden m an album, they fade not, neither do their gowns go out of fashion. 

 It will pay the intending planter to give careful attention to companion 

 cropping with ornamental subjects, so that there will be a successful effect 

 on the same area, or that the defects of one plant may be remedied or covered 

 by the excellences of another. Such a case is pictured on page 30. Here are 

 Lilium siiperhtim and peonies. The peony is the earlier riser, starting sooner 

 into growth, and maturing its flowers before the lily has shot its blooming spike 

 above the surrounding foliage. The lily is thus unseen at this time, and 

 takes no part m the floral display; but soon after the withered peony blooms 



