3 1 2 ] The Fascination of Flowers 



and larger ones slightly deeper; allow at least an inch between 

 seeds. When your seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant 

 them to window boxes or flowerpots. An excellent mixture in 

 which to plant them at this time combines two parts garden soil, 

 one part sand, and one part leaf mold. 



Vegetables for Decoration and Food 



SWEET POTATOES 



Of all the plants that can be raised from roots, the sweet 

 potato is probably the most satisfying. It needs nothing but water. 

 A sweet potato should be placed in a glass or bowl so that about 

 one-third of it is in water. If necessary, you can push three tooth- 

 picks into the plant to support it on the rim of the bowl or 

 glass. Although this will not yield a vegetable harvest, the leaves 

 produced are extremely decorative. 



WORKING WITH SEEDS 



If you wish to work with seeds, you will need a shallow 

 tray with holes in the bottom (for drainage) to start your garden- 

 ing. Place small stones or pieces of broken flowerpots over the 

 holes; then sift soil into the box and press down firmly until the 

 soil is within an inch of the top. If you want to try a miniature 

 vegetable garden, you can plant such seeds as peas, beans, and 

 radishes. 



GROWING DANDELION GREENS 



A child who shows real enthusiasm for gardening may 

 derive great pleasure from growing a few indoor "crops" during 

 the winter which may be used on family menus. However, a warm 

 cellar is usually essential for such activity. There are several 

 plants that will flourish in a box of earth set beside a furnace. 

 Dandelion greens, which are a tasty substitute for lettuce, are 

 among the easiest to obtain and raise. 



Dig up the plants, including roots, before the ground freezes, 

 and cut off a good two inches of the leafy top. Then set the 

 roots in a box of good garden soil, and keep them in a constantly 



