FORMING AND FURNISHING GARDENS. 



TN commencing to buikl it is obviously of the first importance to secure a sound, firm, 

 lasting fonndation. It is true that this is not always provided in these jerry- 

 building days, and someone has to suffer eventually. So-called "cheap,'' slipshod work 

 cannot be permanently satisfactory in that reference, and such work is the dearest in the 

 end. It is precisely the same in preparing sites for gardens. Many of these are, 

 however, disappointing, not so much through lack of will to prepare them well and plant 

 them wisely as through lack of knowledge. The desire may be great to have every- 

 thing done properly, and with that view a " gardener " is employed ; but the fact should 

 be recognized that there are shoddy gardeners in and near all large towns as well as 

 shoddy builders. This fact renders it necessary that all owners or occupiers of gardens, 

 whether these are in the course of formation or established, should have the means of 

 acquiring information on subjects in which they are interested — a "guide" to which 

 they can turn to lead them in the right way from the commencement of operations till 

 they reach the goal of success. 



TOWN GARDENS. 



Town gardens are the most appreciated of all. On many of these is bestowed more 

 watchful care, more anxious thought, and, it must in all fairness be added, more mis- 

 directed energy, at times, than is the case with the majority of other gardens — espe- 

 cially when the relative areas are taken into account. In many instances too much 

 is attempted. Instead of cutting up the small plots of ground that constitute town 

 gardens into numerous walks, beds, and borders, or adopting some fanciful design, it 

 would be more conducive to enjoyment if the centre were kept clear and grassed down.. 

 It is true this would involve mowing, but the modern handy little machines do their 

 work well and easily if only the grass is not let grow too long before it is cut. If pro- 

 perly managed these neat well-shaven lawns can be walked upon and enjoyed in nearly 

 all kinds of weather. If flo-wer-beds must be had, a few of these, plain in outline, 

 might be cut out of the turf, though broad outside borders next the boundary fences 

 would, as a rule, afford ample space for the cultivation of climbers, shrubs and flowers. 



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