210 FLOWER-GARDENEVERGREEN HEDGES. [APRIL. 



EVERGREEN HEDGES. 



We have previously observed, under the head of Ever- 

 greens, that this is the best season for their replanting. 

 We cannot pass over the observations of this month, 

 without having reference to evergreen hedges, so much 

 neglected amongst us, and yet so important to the di- 

 versity of aspect, and especially to soften a little the 

 gloomy appearance of our winters. There are three 

 indigenous shrubs, and at least one exotic, that are 

 well adapted for the purpose, viz, Finns canadensis, 

 Hemlock-spruce; Thuja occidentalism American arbor- 

 vitae ; and Juniperis virginidna, Red cedar. These are 

 natives, and the two former are admirably adapted for 

 the purpose. Where there is to be a hedge of any of 

 these planted, select plants about two feet high ; lift 

 them carefully, preserving the roots as much as possi- 

 ble. Dig a trench from one and a half to two feet 

 wide, and from one to one foot and a half deep. This 

 will admit the soil about the roots to be well broken, 

 which must be done in planting. Keep the plants in 

 the centre of the trench, mixing the shortest and the 

 tallest, that it may be of one height, putting the earth 

 close about their roots as you proceed, and make it firm 

 with the foot ; fill up, and water as directed for ever- 

 greens in this month. If the season is very dry, give it 

 frequent copious waterings. 



None of them should be topped for a few seasons, 

 except such as are much above the others in height, 

 keeping the sides regular and even by clipping or 



