FLOWER GAEDENING 101 



the roots of the arhor vitse to the sun and drying 

 winds, for the resinous roots are easily killed by 

 too much exposure to the air. Observe the same 

 care with the roses, and after setting, cut them 

 back to about eight inches. All need frequent 

 watering until growth begins. 



For edging use Madame Saleroi geranium, 

 coleus, alternanthera, ageratum, aerva sanguina 

 (blood leaf), or sweet alyssum, Little Gem. 

 Coleus may need clipping, which only adds to its 

 great beauty. 



For the center of circular beds of tall-growing 

 plants, try Kicinus Zanzibariensis, the largest and 

 most beautiful of the castor beans. For the cen- 

 ter of lower-growing plants the tall-growing 

 cannas are satisfactory. For single specimens, 

 standing alone, caladium is very effective. 



In the pages following, cultural directions are 

 given for the management of a large number of 

 plants. From these, and others, selections may 

 be made to suit a great variety of conditions. 

 The amateur, however, should avoid attempting 

 too great a variety at first, remembering that 

 overcrowding often hinders success. 



SOILS AND PREPARATION 



It is obvious that in the average backyard of a 

 city lot, there can be no choice of soils or other 

 conditions. It is simply a case of ' ' that or none. ' ' 

 Fortunately, selections of plants may be made to 

 suit almost any conditions. The soil, however, 

 should be well drained, and rich. The " Modified 

 Sandwich Bed" will be found very satisfactory. 

 For single specimens, where giant growth is de- 



