THE GROWING OF THE ORNAMENTAL PLANTS 24o 



Some familiar examples of hardy annuals are sweet alyssum, 

 ageratum, calendula, calliopsis, candytuft, Centaurea Cyanus, 

 clarkia, larkspur, gilia, California poppy, morning-glory, mari- 

 gold, mignonette, nemophila, pansy, phlox, pinks, poppies, por- 

 tulaca, zinnia, sweet pea, scabiosa. 



Examples of half-hardy annuals are: China aster, alonsoa, 

 balsam, petunia, ricinus, stocks, balloon-vine, martynia, 

 salpiglossis, thunbergia, nasturtium, verbena. 



Examples of tender annuals : Amarantus, celosia or coxcomb, 

 cosmos, cotton. Lobelia Erinus, cobea, gourds, ice-plant, sen- 

 sitive-plant, solanums, torenia, and such things as dahlias, 

 caladiums, and acalypha used for bedding and subtropical 

 effects. 



Some annuals do not bear transplanting well; as poppies, 

 bartonia, Venus' looking-glass, the dwarf convolvulus, lupinus, 

 and malope. It is best, therefore, to sow them where they 

 are to grow. 



Some kinds (as poppies) do not bloom all summer, more 

 especially not if allowed to produce seed. Of such kinds a 

 second or third sowing at intervals will provide a succession. 

 Preventing the formation of seeds prolongs their life and flower- 

 ing period. 



A few of the annuals thrive in partial shade or where they 

 receive sunshine for half the day; but most of them prefer a 

 sunny situation. 



Any good garden soil is suitable for annuals. If not natu- 

 rally fertile and friable, it should be made so by the application 

 of well-rotted stable-manure or humus. The spading should be 

 at least one foot deep. The upper six inches is then to be given 

 a second turning to pulverize and mix it. After making the 

 surface fine and smooth the soil should be pressed down with a 

 board. The seed may now be sprinkled on the soil in lines or 

 concentric circles, according to the method desired. After cov- 

 ering the seed, the soil should be again pressed down with a 



