THE FLOWER GARDEN. 95 



getlier in groups. Do not manure the soil the usual 

 mixture of loam, sand, and leaf-mould, suits them best. 

 " Unnamed " sorts are sold by florists at a low figure, and 

 they often prove to be quite as fine as the named and 

 more expensive varieties. When the tops die down in 

 the fall, dig and dry the bulbs, wrap them in paper, and 

 keep them in a cool, dry cellar. 



If from the foregoing list of seeds and bulbs, one can 

 afford to choose but a limited variety, be sure to secure, 

 at least, these treasures : Candidum and Auratum Lilies, 

 Tuberoses, Dwarf Dahlias, one package of Aster seeds, 

 one package of best mixed Pansies, one package of best 

 mixed Petunias, one package of best mixed Verbenas, one 

 package of Lavender, one package of Sweet Alyssum, one 

 package of Sweet Peas, one package of Mignonette. 



HARDY SHRUBS. 



Aside from their intrinsic worth, shrubs are very de- 

 sirable, because of the little care and trouble they impose. 

 They are like generous friends, that give everything, and 

 ask very little in return ; and still, like these same 

 friends, they appreciate a bit of devotion now and then. 



The sweet, time-honored Syringas and Lilacs, I place 

 first in the list. Once planted in good soil, all they re- 

 quire is a little enriching and pruning once a year. They, 

 and other tall shrubs, should be planted in well-chosen 

 spots, where they will not obstruct pleasant views ; and 

 if trimmed in tree-shapes, and the soil about them kept 

 mellow, some bright annuals like Zinnias, Nasturtiums, 

 or Petunias, will look prettily growing around them. 

 Persian Lilacs, and Snowballs present a pleasing contrast, 

 when allowed to grow in a group together. 



No garden should lack its Roses. There are many 

 hardy sorts, and every one can afford two or three of 

 them. In return for their royal blossoms, let them have 



