PREFACE. 



)N THE preparation of this volume, the purpose continually in 

 the mind of the author has been to afford a simple and con- 

 venient reference book of the ornamental trees and plants 

 hardy in this climate; simple, yet concise, a guide valu- 

 able not only to the amateur, but to the busy architect, 

 gardener or plantsman as well. Its form has been suggested 

 by the needs encountered during a long period of private and 

 commercial association with plants, when the material here set 

 forth would at times have been most useful. 



It is as a reference book that it will take its place. Exhaustive 

 descriptions, variations from type, and more technical matter 

 must be sought among the horticultural encyclopaedias. In 

 these pages, however, will be found general cultural information 

 and directions sufficient for all ordinary requirements. When 

 and how to plant, pruning, spraying and cultivation are each 

 treated comprehensively. Propagation has not been touched 

 upon, as it is a generally accepted fact that trees and plants, of 

 sizes suitable for planting in their permanent places, can be more 

 easily obtained from reliable nurserymen, and give, as a rule, 

 better satisfaction to the amateur gardener. Trees, shrubs and 

 plants have been classified according to their suitability for cer- 

 tain purposes. Space is given to the making and proper care of 

 lawns. The more common injurious insects are described, and 

 means for their extermination are discussed. In short, the author 

 has earnestly endeavored to include whatever information the 

 average householder needs to enable him to make a selection of 

 such trees and plants as are best adapted to his purposes, and 

 to aid him in properly caring for the grounds about his home. 



Regarding the plants themselves, doubtless many omissions 

 will be found from the more or less familiar sorts ; but let it here 

 be said that only such are included as have proved their worth 

 under ordinarily favorable conditions of cultivation and climate. 



