THE HARDY BORDER 95 



WIDTH OF BEDS 



This will vary according to the size of the place, the location of 

 the beds, and their length. It should not be more than about six feet, 

 otherwise it will be impracticable to cut or pick flowers without 

 stepping on the bed. In cases where they can be reached from only 

 one side, it is advisable to keep the width down to a maximum of 

 four feet. 



The walks or paths in the perennial garden should be at least 

 three feet wide, with the main or central walk still wider. The choice 

 of material and type of construction is a matter of personal preference, 

 but a turf path, as in the Rose garden, gives the best "ground" as a 

 setting for the flowers. A Box-bordered brick walk is also in harmony 

 with an old-time effect. If a gravel or dirt walk is used, it is advisable 

 to leave a strip of turf at least eighteen inches wide between the bed 

 and the walk. 



PREPARATION OF BEDS 



The success of the garden or border depends upon the preparation 

 of the soil. Many perennial roots go deep; therefore it is essential 

 that the border be dug to a depth of at least eighteen to twenty-four 

 inches. If the soil is at all impoverished, enrich it by adding rotted 

 manure and bonemeal. If drainage is necessary, it can be provided 

 by the same method as described for Rose beds (page 88). The surface 

 should be quite friable, not clammy, and the whole border should be 

 allowed to settle before it is planted. 



PLANTING 



The actual operation of planting is taken up under the general 

 heading of "Planting" (page 67), but perhaps it would be well to 

 emphasize the importance of setting the plants at the right depth — 

 neither too deep nor too shallow. Keep the crown of leaves above 

 the ground level, but be sure all the roots are well covered. 



ARRANGEMENT 



The design, width and location of the beds and the succession of 

 flowers should be considered when selecting and placing the plants. 

 Color harmony is also a most important point. This subject (color) 

 is treated more fully elsewhere (page 81). The most vigorous and 



