82 ALPINE FLOWERS AND ROCK GARDENS. 



whether the rock-bed system, the terrace system, or 

 the ridge-and-bay system, they will supply him with 

 appropriate material. 



This method of getting stone is not, perhaps, the 

 cheapest, but it is eminently safe ; and after all an 

 extra shilling or half-crown per ton may not be a vital 

 consideration. 



An amateur who is buying stone without expert 

 guidance should take texture, size and shape into 

 consideration. A soft stone is not suitable, however 

 well it may look at first, because after a winter of hard 

 frost it will break into chips, and even crumble to 

 powder. It is necessary to be particularly careful 

 with limestone on this account. No stone varies more 

 than this. Some kinds go in a year or two, others are 

 quite durable. An idea of its probable stability may 

 be obtained by examining the stone. If it has a dull, 

 powdery appearance it should be rejected, but if bright 

 and sparkling it may be used. Limestone should 

 be regarded with particular suspicion in the case of 

 tov/n gardens, as it is readily affected by sulphuric 

 and other acids. 



In some counties limestone is very abundant, and 

 there is a natural temptation to use it if it is quarried 

 within a few miles, as the cost is low. It may be 

 possible to get it right on to the place for seven or 

 eight shillings a ton. One great thing in its favour is 

 that most plants like it. The roots cling to it with an 

 intimacy which suggests active favours. Some Alpines 

 are more markedly lime-lovers than others, but there 

 are few that do not appreciate Umestone. 



