GROUPINGS OF PLANTS IN POTS 125 



freestone, but I have one edged with a low wall of 

 local sandstone where there is a square landing paved 

 with the same stone and short flights of steps in con- 

 nection with a tank and a lower garden level. Here 

 Geraniums and Cannas luxuriate in shelter and full 

 sunshine. 



Maiden's Wreath {Francoa ramosa) is a plant for 

 many uses. The foliage, though sparing in quantity, 

 is distinct and handsome. The long flower-stems are 

 flung out with a kind of determination of character 

 that would seem to imply that the plant knows what 

 is expected of it and intends to fulfil its settled duty 

 and purpose, namely, that of being a graceful and 

 beautiful ornament. Towards the later summer these 

 flower-stems become so heavy that there is danger of 

 their weight, swayed by a little wind, wrenching out 

 whole portions of the plant. Support should be given 

 with short pieces of hazel stick tied half way up the 

 stem. In nurseries it is general, and even in private 

 gardens not unusual, to see the flowers tied straight 

 upright. This should never be, for it not only forces 

 the plant into a form that is entirely at variance with 

 its nature, but robs it of its natural grace and valuable 

 individuality. 



There is no end to the uses of Hydrangeas in pots ; 

 a weU-bloomed plant will give life and interest to many 

 an uninteresting corner ; the bloom is long-enduring 

 and stands equally well in sun and shade. If the blue 

 colour, which comes naturally in some soils, is desired, 

 it can be had by mixing pounded slate and iron filings 

 with the compost — alum is another well-known agent 



