1:4 FOUNTAIN BASINS. 



directed later, it is important to avoid making holes or indentions in the 

 bottom or other part of the clay lining; so whatever operation is in progress, 

 use planks or boards upon which to walk or wheel. 



A sod border makes the best finish to the edge of the pond, and will allow 

 a close inspection of the occupants, but numerous Grasses, Selaginellas, Lysim- 

 achias, Glechomas, Rushes, Vincas, etc., should find a home on the edge of the 

 pond, or at least on a portion of it. 



The foregoing method of treatment is not practical in all cases, but other 

 means to attain similar effects may be resorted to, such as fountain basins, 

 tanks or artificial ponds. In making such, the general idea should be to 

 imitate nature, and, where practicable, all such work and materials should 

 be carefully concealed (see plate facing page 64). It often happens that the 

 most desirable spot in which to grow water plants is such that an orna- 

 mental stone wall, or the coping of such would be in harmony with the sur- 

 roundings. Gravel walks leading near the pond, and kept in good condition, 

 are a great accommodation, affording people means of making an early inspec- 

 tion of the gems, when otherwise, if obliged to walk over the lawn yet wet with 

 dew, they would be debarred. 



Large fountain basins of this description are to be seen in city parks, both 

 small and large, also in cemeteries, as well as on private estates; these are 

 available for growing most kinds of aquatic plants. Other tanks or basins 

 specially constructed for the purpose, as well as tubs made out of hogsheads 

 and kerosene barrels, are very serviceable and well adapted for the growing 

 of aquatics on a smaller scale. A fountain is sometimes an ornamental and 

 desirable structure in the garden, but it must harmonize with the surroundings 

 and be in proportion to the dimensions of the garden, or the section thereof 

 allotted to it. The basin of a fountain, if not very small, will prove a fitting 

 place for aquatics, but it must not be crowded with plants, and a continual 

 stream of water must not be permitted, as that would tend to lower the 

 temperature of the water. Such strong growing plants as Nelumbiums, and 

 tall growing plants, such as Papyrus, must be omitted, except in large 

 fountain basins, and even when present, care must be taken not to allow a 

 heavy stream or spray of water to fall on such plants, for it would beat them 

 down and give a ragged appearance to the whole. 



Tanks or artificial ponds may be constructed in almost any desired spot 

 where a supply of water can be commanded. Such a pond may be in proximity 

 to a dwelling house. There is no need to fear its being a nuisance, as a source 



