74 SCHOOL AND HOME GARDENS 
straight rows may give way to graceful curves or to 
angles. The small space may afford room for the low 
varieties, while the larger one is planted with the taller 
kinds. Provision must be made for a succession and for 
harmony in color. If the flower garden is to be a per- 
manent feature of the place, walks should be arranged 
to conform to the contour of the land, or, if the garden is 
level, it may be given some geometrical design by the 
use of gravel walks and grass borders. The soil in the 
various plots may be modified by the addition of sand, 
leaf mold, or clay, and by the use of plant foods, in order 
to prepare the soil for the needs of special plants.” ~ 
THE ASTER 
The aster is one of the best annuals for cutting. For 
early flowers the seeds must be sown in boxes or cold 
frames. Sow in the open ground for late summer and 
autumn flowering. 
Sowing in boxes. Prepare a compost by mixing leaf 
mold, soil, and sand. The mixture should be fairly firm 
but in good condition for drainage. If leaf mold cannot 
be obtained, well-rotted manure will answer the purpose. 
Use one part of manure to one of soil and one of sand. 
Place considerable coarse material in the bottom of the 
box for drainage. Fill with the prepared soil to within 
half an inch of the top; press down lightly with a board; 
sow the seeds and sift over them a layer of soil about twice 
their own thickness. Water through a clotlt and cover the 
