30 
WINTER PROTECTION OF PLANTS 
This is a subject of great importance, if we wish to have fine 
vigorous specimens instead of those which show in every way the 
effects of their struggle with an uncongenial environment. 
This desirable result may be attained in two ways: by the se- 
lection of suitable plants, and by affording protection from adverse 
circumstances. In the first place then by proper initial care, the 
old adage applying here as elsewhere, ‘‘an ounce of prevention is 
worth a pound of cure.”’ So let us select for our environment 
plants which experience has shown will thrive under given con- 
ditions. Let this be our first way of ae winter protection, 
and by adopting this method the number of plants which will 
need additional protection will be reduced to a minimum. The 
general principle may be laid down that plants which are forced 
out of their natural environment are weakened to that extent 
in their struggle for existence. For instance, if plants which 
delight in a wet or swampy place are placed in a dry location, 
just so much more energy must be expended in an effort to 
adapt themselves to unaccustomed conditions, with a commen- 
surate reduction along other lines, and consequently they are 
not as able to survive the winter as others where the requirements 
are more nearly normal. The same holds true for plants which 
prefer the i eo afforded in group association. Rem 
them from this condition and place them, as solitary aa 
in a wind-swept location and you court disaster. Many plants 
are partial to valleys, some to shaded situations, while others do 
best only in the direct sunlight, and if you wish the best results 
you must at least approximate the individual requirements of 
the plant 
The nature of the soil has much to do with this matter of 
alkaline nature. Heavy clay soils, retentive of moisture, are 
best adapted to some, while others prefer light sandy soils where 
good and quick drainage is assured 
Atmospheric conditions form another factor which we must 
consider in our selection. If plants live in a locality where the 
