THE FLOWER GARDEN l6l 



all good in their proper places. The flowers of clem- 

 atis paniculata and clematis Jackmani are espe- 

 cially attractive. Little if any pruning is necessary, 

 except to cut out dead or diseased wood at any 

 time, and to remove surplus or not-wanted growth 

 in the spring. Cultivate a circle of ground around 

 the roots, and mulch with stable manure. 



ANNUAL PLANTS AND VINES. Planting flower 

 seed every year is a bother, but flower lovers can 

 not quite get along without some of their favorite 

 one-season bloomers. I can only mention a few of 

 the best-known : 



Aster : The various annual varieties permit of 

 a blooming season from July until frost. Sow seed 

 in window boxes in early spring and transplant in 

 May; or sow seed outdoors about May ist. 



Canna : Not easy to grow from seed (see hints 

 under Moonflower). Better buy roots of a seeds- 

 man. Set in rich, moist soil about fifteen inches 

 apart June ist or when danger of frost is over. 

 In the fall after a heavy frost, cut off tops near the 

 ground; later, before ground freezes, dig roots, dry 

 them well in the sun, and store in a cool cellar. The 

 roots need dividing every year or so. 



Dahlia : May be grown from seed, but most 

 people prefer to buy roots of a seedsman and plant 

 out about May I5th, or when the weather is warm 

 and settled. Earlier bloom may be secured by start- 

 ing the roots in boxes in the house three weeks ahead 

 of outdoor planting time. Tie the plants to stakes, 

 for support. Have the ground rich. After frost has 

 blackened the vines, cut them off near the ground. 

 Dig the roots on a sunny day, dry them well, and 

 store in a cool cellar. The roots may be divided from 

 time to time, and the surplus used or sold. (Divide 



