1893.] ESSAYS. 95 



improvement of the surrouDtling ground ; which would also be a pro- 

 tection to the health of the occupants, and the neighbors. 



It seemed strange to me that the health authorities had not ordered 

 its improvement, but it emphasized the field for usefulness that our 

 societies have before them everywhere. 



Indeed, a profit could easily have been reaped by a simple cultiva- 

 tion of those small neglected lots, but public opinion had not then 

 taken an advanced stand in those questions. 



May these hints, to plant such to grass and flowering shrubs with 

 vines kept well trained, or fruit trees and vegetables, meet the eye of 

 some owner of small neglected home grounds, who will see profit in 

 caring for them. 



On larger places what beautiful effects we can gain by the varied 

 combinations that the many deciduous and evergreen plants and shrubs 

 afford us, with a possible carpet of ground-vines under the several 

 clusters, or clumps. 



The best effects can be attained only by special study and knowl- 

 edge ; and in order to be sure and obtain the best material and effect 

 in combination, it is wisest to seek assistance from those who, by 

 training and experience, we can feel sure will afford us the best ad- 

 vice and execution. 



The landscape architect is to-day a recognized professional man, 

 find is trained for that work. He knows no single nursery from which 

 to select his plants. He has all such open to him, and he selects 

 where he will and in greater variety in consequence. By his visits 

 here and there, he suggests to our nurserymen deficiencies where they 

 may exist, and advertises him who has supplies of special merit. He 

 is a benefit to the nurseryman, and to him for whom the nurseryman 

 acts as decorator. 



Indeed, the nurseryman tends to become, if he is not alrendy, a 

 landscape gardener. The landscape architect, nurseryman and gar- 

 dener are to-day working together for mutual benefit. 



In this work of how great value will be, and is now, that wise 

 foundation, the Arnold Arboretum at Jamaica Plain ; and a word or 

 two on this subject will not be out of place. 



There is a considerable tract of 160 acres occupying a portion of 

 the Bussey farm at Forest Hills station, on the Providence Division of 

 the Old Colony R. R. Electric cars also start from the Tremont 

 House in Boston to the same station. It is of varied character as to 

 soil and elevation of surface, and admirably suited to test the land- 

 scape architect's skill and afford opportunity to display trees, shrubs 



