THE GARDEN BOOK OF CALIFORNIA 



Wire-netting fence, of about three feet in height, is most 

 useful when used to form long wall-pockets for plants on 

 the surface of these same ugly board fences. It is sold by 

 the foot in all hardware stores. The fencing should be 

 nailed against the boards very securely at one edge, then 

 bands of iron or strips of wire may be passed around at inter- 

 vals, looping the lower edge up so as to make a hollow recep- 

 tacle. This can be lined with moss, preferably with live 

 lycopodiums and then filled with soil. These receptacles 

 are ideal for delicate vines and ferns, and the inside of the 

 "ugly board fence" can be entirely concealed from view by 

 its use. The hose can be turned upon these receptacles 

 without damage, and the plants thus kept fresh and beauti- 

 ful. 



Not every full-foliaged plant will grow against a wall 

 gracefully. Over and over again I am asked to name soi>e 

 plant that will make a suitable covering or screen at the 

 base of a porch; or against the foundations of a house; or 

 as a background against a wall or board fence with other 

 plants near by. I am much pleased with coprosma for all 

 these purposes. 



Coprosma baueriana comes to us from New Zealand. 

 It has a bright glossy leaf of brilliant green, the texture being 

 such that if the surface of the leaf were varnished it could 

 not shed dust more readily. Coprosma has not very sturdy 

 habits, and is easily persuaded to lean against the wall for 

 support, speedily covering the surface. It can be used as 

 well for low hedges, but its place for real service is, as I 



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