April.'] BOX EDGINGS 



EVERGREEN HEDGES. 



We have previously observed, under the head Evergreens, 

 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 among us, 

 and yet so important to the diversity of aspect, and especially 

 to soften a little the gloomy appearance of our winters 

 There are three indigenous shrubs, and at least three exotics, 

 that are well adapted for the purpose, viz., Pinus Canadensis, 

 Hemlock-spruce; Thuja occidentdlis, American arbor-vitae; 

 Thuja orientdlis, Chinese arbor-vitae; and Juniperis Virgi- 

 nidna, Red-cedar. 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 possible. 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 to be 

 well broken about the roots, 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 fre- 

 quent 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 shearing once a year, 

 either in this month or at the end of August. It is better 

 to keep the top (when they have got to the desired height) 

 pointed than broad. The latter method retains a heavy 

 weight of snow, which frequently breaks down, or otherwise 

 deforms, that which has cost much labour to put into shape. 



Euonymus japonica, bright green foliage of free growth 

 and quite hardy. There is also the variegated variety, very 

 excellent for hedges south of this latitude. 



BOX EDGINGS. 



Where these have not been laid, this month is the proper 

 time. Do not delay the planting of such any later. For 

 ample directions, see March, under this head. Clipping of 



