246 FLOWER GARDEN. 



the figures are separated by turf, it is proper that the 

 little lawns or glades shoukl have a considerable de- 

 gree of breadth, for nothing has a worse effect than 

 overcrowding. A multitude of little figures should 

 also be avoided ; for they produce what Mr. Gilpin calls 

 spottiness, which, as he has correctly pointed out, is a 

 grievous deformity. In this sort of flower garden it is 

 desirable that a gravel-walk should skirt along at least 

 one side of the principal figures ; in our humid climate 

 the grass would otherwise render them inaccessible with 

 comfort during a great part of the year. In those 

 gardens from which turf is excluded, the compartments 

 should be of a larger and more massive character. 



Narrow borders, bounded by parallel straight lines 

 and concentric curves, should be avoided. The centres 

 of the figures should be occupied with tall-growing 

 shrubs, and even with an occasional low evergreen tree, 

 such as a yew or a holly. The walks, arranged in long 

 concave curves, may communicate here and there with 

 one another. A dial, a few seats and arbors, with an 

 urn or two, or a vase, may be introduced with good 

 effect. It is to be regretted that so few good specimens 

 of this species of flower garden have hitherto been" exe- 

 cuted in Britain. 



Amongst the accompaniments of the flower garden 

 may be mentioned the Rock-work. This consists of 

 variou^sly grouped masses of large stones, generally such 

 as are remarkable for being figured by water-wearing, 

 or for containing petrifactions or impressions; and into 

 the cavities between the stones, filled with earth, alpine 

 or trailing plants are inserted. These are numerous, 

 and may be endlessly diversified. Several species of 

 Helianthemum, Gentiana, Pentstemon, and Primula; 



