222 THE SCHOOL GARDEN BOOK 



the others, so that a large proportion of the nasturtiums now 

 cultivated are of mixed races. 



The young seed pods of the common nasturtiums are 

 often used for pickles, and in England the leaves are often 

 used in salads. The ripened seed which we buy really con- 

 sists of the whole fruit, the wall of the ovary being attached 

 to the contained seeds. 



As cut flowers, the nasturtiums are particularly effective 

 when displayed in low glass vases or rose bowls in which the 

 stems show through the sides of the receptacle. They may 

 also be exhibited to advantage in low flower- jars of almost 

 any neutral or subdued colors, but they should not be shown 

 in tall vases, for they will not stand erect above the top for 

 any distance. Consequently, the vase will be too tall, in 

 proportion to the whole display, for a harmonious result. 



THE JULY CALENDAR 



Flowers 



KEEP flowers of sweet peas, marigolds, and other annuals picked as 



fast as they begin to wither. If they go to seed, the plants stop 



flowering. 

 KEEP all flower beds free from weeds, and the surface of the soil well 



stirred. 

 Sow seed of dwarf China Asters of almost any type in a partially shaded 



seed-bed where water can be applied. These are for late autumn 



window-boxes. 

 PLAN to save the seed of some of your choicest flowers. 



Vegetables 



Sow during the first half of the month seed of turnips, bush beans, and 

 of early varieties of beets; during the last half of the month sow 

 seed of spinach. 



