WHO'S WHO AMONG THE ANNUALS 191 



adverse conditions as any other, though an impression 

 seems to exist to the effect that a little scratching of the 

 soil and scattering of seed is all that is necessary where 

 annuals are concerned. But this is by no means the 

 case, and they are quite as capable of sulking and pre- 

 senting a spindling, half-clothed appearance when not 

 suited as their betters in higher circles, and they always 

 repay intelligent attention. In the first place, they are 

 nearly all sun worshippers; there are very few that will 

 endure shade; also they are a thirsty lot and want 

 moisture, but require a well-drained soil, deeply dug, and 

 only moderately rich with manure. Each plant must 

 have plenty of room to develop, and too much stress 

 cannot be put upon this point. Especially where seed 

 is sown where it is to remain, and comes up thickly, un- 

 merciful thinning must be done, or a very poor showing 

 will be the result. It is economy to buy only the best 

 seeds, and better effects will be achieved if seeds are 

 bought only in separate colours and varieties. The 

 mixed packet is better let alone. A long period of 

 bloom is assured if no seed is allowed to form, for an- 

 nuals are among those gracious beings who, the more 

 you take from them, the more they have to give. A 

 pinch of superphosphate, given to each little plant when 

 set out and the ground kept cultivated and moist, will 

 mean a rich and speedy reward. 



For planting among the perennials I think the follow- 

 ing are the twelve best annuals: 



