Herbaceous and Bedding Plants 



enough to be handled, keeping the young plants close and shaded 

 for a few days until they take root; gradually harden them off 

 by exposure to the open air, and plant them, where they are to 

 bloom, when they are from four to six inches high. 



SALVIA. 



This brilliant, Autumn-blooming, bedding plant is indispen- 

 sable where bright color effects are desired. The Salvias thrive 

 in a light sandy soil well-enriched with old manure and are kept 

 growing by generous supplies of water at the root. 



Propagate the shrubby varieties by cuttings, in September or 

 October, inserted in sandy soil in a cool frame and kept shaded 

 during sunshine until rooted. Where the temperature falls to 

 the freezing point, the cuttings should be kept under glass until 

 all danger from frost is over, when they may be planted where 

 they are to bloom. The tuberous-rooted species (such as Sal via 

 patens) are propagated by cuttings taken from the young shoots 

 which start from the crown in early Spring; these should be 

 placed in a warm house or frame until rooted; they may also be 

 increased by dividing the roots in Spring. 



SAXIFRAGA. 



A large genus of hardy perennial herbs, very useful for plant- 

 ing in rockwork where they form beautiful and interesting effects. 

 Saxifraga palmata, probably the largest-leafed species of the 

 genus, is a native of California, growing on the banks of our 

 streams and creeks; Saxifraga sarmentosa (Aaron's Beard), an 

 old favorite, is much used in hanging baskets or in forming 

 borders. 



They thrive in any soil under ordinary care, and are easily 

 propagated by dividing the roots or by seeds sown in the open 

 ground in early Spring, the seeds being covered very lightly. 



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