FLOWERS FOR SUBURBAN GARDENS 377 



works; but that even such unsuitable surroundings are not fatal 

 was proved by the fact that 100 yards away another set of plants 

 was thriving. We may refer suburbanists to the special chapter 

 on Sweet Peas for information as to culture and varieties, empha- 

 sising the fact that vigorous seedlings and deep, well-manured soil 

 are of the greatest importance. If we had to grow Sweet Peas 

 in gardens much closed in by small houses, or near factories, we 

 should devote particular attention to raising very strong, sturdy 

 plants in pots or boxes. If we had no glass we would go to 

 the expense of a frame, which would not cost much. With good 

 potting soil, and attention to watering and ventilation, we should 

 expect to get strong plants. We would put twigs in the pots, and 

 let the seedlings run to about nine inches high before putting them 

 out. After planting them we would see that they never suffered 

 from dry soil until they had got into thorough going order, and 

 we would freshen them up frequently with the syringe. Knowing 

 as we do of many amateurs who grow Sweet Peas successfully in 

 the suburbs, we have no hesitation in recommending all amateurs 

 who have not already tasted the pleasures of Sweet Pea growing 

 to resolve that not another season shall be lost. We believe in 

 the regular picking of Sweet Peas while the flowers are young 

 in all cases, and it is particularly advisable in suburban gardens. 

 Though the plants love sunshine, it is no serious disadvantage if 

 they miss the sun for three or four hours in the day. The salmon, 

 orange, and thin-petalled scarlet and crimson varieties soon lose 

 their freshness in hot sun. Regular hoeing will help to keep the 

 plants growing, and soakings of liquid manure once or twice a 

 week (not driblets every day) will be stimulating and beneficial. 



Dahlias in Suburban Gardens. The Dahlia is not an ideal sub- 

 urban plant, partly because it likes a cooler, moister, and richer soil 

 than generally prevails, partly because it is bulky and makes 

 greater demands on space than can be met in many cases. In 

 small gardens we would rather rely on the smaller Michaelmas 



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