104 GARDENING FOR BEGINNERS 



Daisies may also be dug up with an old knife. Previous to 

 commencing this operation stretch two garden lines across 

 the lawn three feet apart, then work between them ; fill up 

 the holes that the daisies are taken from with fine soil, which 

 should be beaten firmly into them. The bare places will then 

 soon be covered with grass. If daisies are numerous dig 

 them up early in April, and after the holes have been filled 

 up, a slight dressing of artificial manure and fine soil should 

 be given. 



Mowing is an operation that requires considerable judg- 

 ment. As a rule early April is the best time to begin, and 

 if the grass is dense and vigorous it may be mown once a 

 week. On the other hand, if thin and weak, once in ten days 

 or a fortnight will be often enough. If possible always mow 

 the grass when dry, for if mown when wet it never looks well, 

 besides which wet grass clogs and strains the machine. For 

 lawns of large extent horse or pony machines are necessary, 

 but leather boots must be placed on the animal's feet to pre- 

 vent them from cutting into the turf. For small lawns use 

 hand machines. Before commencing to mow in spring the 

 edges of the lawn should be well rolled, and an inch cut off 

 them with an edging knife. 



Lawns are frequently neglected during winter, conse- 

 quently worm-casts become numerous, and the turf gets 

 coarse. The grass should be swept and well rolled in fine 

 weather at least once a month throughout the winter. This 

 will keep it not only in a healthy but also a presentable con- 

 dition. Where practicable a good supply of water should be 

 laid on in close proximity to the lawn, in order that it may be 

 well watered in dry weather by means of a hose. A verdant 

 lawn is beautiful and restful, and may be made to remain so 

 by employing a little cheap labour each year, and by giving 

 an annual dressing with fine soil and an approved fertiliser. 



