330 



ORNAMENTAL PLANTS 



herbs to the higher ones, then on to the shrubs, the trees, 

 and the blended sky-line beyond. 



241. The Italian Style. According to the Italian style 

 of decorative planting, which is followed in parks and on 

 large estates and driveways, straight lines and geometrical 

 figures are traceable throughout. This style, however, is 

 not suited to small country places, and no discussion of it 

 need be given here. 



242. Ornamental plants must be cared for after planting. 

 If left to themselves, much of their beauty will not appear. 



This does not mean that 

 severe pruning is needed 

 every year, or that plants 

 are especially liable to 

 be killed by free^jftg or 

 by pests. It does mean 

 that some pruning is 

 necessary. This is best 

 done as soon as the 

 flowers have fallen. Cut 

 off the tips of the grow- 

 ing branches, and, in the 

 case of flowering shrubs, 

 aim to give the shrubs a compact and symmetrical form. 

 Shrubs are not expected to bear flowers on the inside of 

 the clump, and external shearing not only gives them a 

 better form but increases the flower surface. 



Details as to the care of the great variety of plants use- 

 ful for ornamental purposes must be passed by. A knowl- 

 edge of such details can be secured readily from the near- 

 est nursery. Each variety needs special treatment for 

 the best results. 



243. The Flower Garden. It is desirable to have a part 

 of the yard devoted exclusively to flowers. Interest in 



HOLLYHOCKS. 



