308 MANUAL OF GARDENING 



fertile; but high climbing in annual plants (as in sweet peas) 

 may be at the expense of bloom. 



The use of vines for screens and pillar decorations has in- 

 creased in recent years until now they may be seen in nearly 

 all grounds. The tendency has been towards using the hardy 

 vines, of which the ampelopsis, or Virginia creeper, is one of the 

 most common. This is a very rapid grower, and lends itself to 

 training more readily than many others. The Japan ampelopsis 

 {A. tricuspidata or Veitchii) is a good clinging vine, growing 

 very rapidly when once established, and brilliantly colored 

 after the first fall frosts. It clings closer than the other, but is 

 not so hardy. Either of these may be grown from cuttings or 

 division of the plants. 



Two recommendable woody twiners of recent distribution 

 are the actinidia and the akebia, both from Japan. They are 

 perfectly hardy, and are rapid growers. The former has large 

 thick glossy leaves,- not affected by insects or disease, growing 

 thickly along the stem and branches, making a perfect thatch. 

 It blooms in June. The flowers, which are white with a pur- 

 ple center, are borne in clusters, followed by round or longish 

 edible fruits. The akebia has very neat-cut foliage, quaint 

 purple flowers, and often bears ornamental fruit. 



Of the tender vines, the nasturtiums and ipomeas and morn- 

 ing-glories are the most common in the North, while the ad- 

 lumia, balloon vine, passion vine, gourds, and others, are fre- 

 quently used. One of the best of recent introduction is the 

 annual hop, especially the variegated variety. This is a very 

 rapid-growing vine, seeding itself each year, and needing little 

 care. The climbing geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum and its 

 derivatives) are much used in California. All the tender vines 

 should be planted after danger of frost is past. 



So many good vines are now on the market that one may 

 grow a wide variety for many uses. The home gardener should 

 keep his eyes open for the wild vines of his neighborhood and 



