552 ORNAMENTAL GARDENING. BOOK I. 



Shrubberies. — This term is properly applied to a narrow 

 belt or strip of shrubs and flowers, which is sometimes the chief 

 ornament of a small seat. The idea of such a thing is good ; 

 and, if executed according to the principles of nature and good 

 taste, it would produce an effect both interesting and pleasing. 

 But as the reverse has constantly been the case, Mr. Knight 

 justly reprobates their tawdry insipidity *. They are generally 

 made for the sake of obtaining a wall:, which may either con- 

 duct to some particular place or scene, as the kitchen garden, 

 farm, wood, &c. or it may lead merely through the shrubbery 

 for its own sake, and such views of external objects as can be 

 obtained from it, or as deserve attention. This being kept in 

 view in designing and forming shrubberies, these three things 

 require particular attention : First, the arrangement and group- 

 ing of the trees, which ought to be that of general nature. 

 Secondly, the intermixture of glades and pasture, which in 

 most cases is an essential requisite. Thirdly, the judicious in- 

 troduction of views of more distant scenery ; which is most 

 frequently desirable, unless in such parts as, by way of con- 

 trast, are preserved in umbrosity. This and the former requi- 

 sites are naturally connected with picturesque improvements, 

 the general principles of which are blended with this branch of 

 ornamental gardening. 



* " Curse on the shrubbery's insipid scenes," &c 



