48 



THE FLOWER GROWER'S GUIDE. 



terrace, but on no account break it up into a scries of small flower-beds. Instead of 

 formal designs or geometrically arranged groups of beds in prominent positions in 

 small gardens, it is better to have a few plain moderate- sized beds in different parts of 

 the grounds. In this way their interest is sustained, and more features of beauty 

 provided, with a greater variety of plants at a lesser cost than is the case where the 

 beds are grouped. 



A good expanse of well-kept lawn is one of the most enjoyable adjuncts of suburban 

 homes, and ought, whenever possible, to be provided. Smooth lawns materially enhance 

 the beauty of flowers and trees. Instead, however, of dotting trees and shrubs indis- 

 criminately, be content with fewer of these on the lawn, and have more outside borders 

 and small shrubberies, letting the walks wind in and out among them. Very few forest 

 trees should be tolerated in a small enclosare, as these greatly interfere with flower 

 culture and choice evergreens. Appropriate positions may possibly bo found for one or 

 two trees for affording grateful shade in summer, and horse-chestnuts, beeches, limes, 

 and jjlane-trecs afford a good choice. Weeping trees, again, are effective, the specimen 

 at the top of the design (page 47) giving an idea as to a suitable position for one of 

 these. A rustic summer-house with the oak j^illars clothed with roses, honeysuckles, 

 and clematis, would not be out of place in the position assigned on the page cited, and, 

 more often than not, would be full}* appreciated. 



A long border for hardy flowers ought particularly to be included, as a choice selec- 

 tion of plants gro"oai in it would afford a welcome supply of sprays for cutting, and these 

 borders are also worthy of inspection during many months in the year. In the design 

 on page 47, the border is upwards of 60 feet long by G feet wide, and this is a size not 

 by any means excessive. A cool shady place should be set apart for a fernery, rough 

 rock work, stumps of trees, large clinkers and such-like material, all serving to raise and 

 otherwise set off and benefit the ferns. Nor ought roses to be neglected, but a good- 

 sized, well-prepared bed should be set apart for their culture in quantity. Rhododen- 

 drons are even more show\", and many of the hybrids are very beautiful. These Avill 

 thrive in loamy soil if there is no lime present, but if common peat can be had, this 

 should be freely used for rhododendrons, hardy azaleas, heaths, and plants of a like 

 nature. A few conifers, notably such handsome species as Cupressus Lawsoniana, 

 Thuiopsis borealis, and retinosporas, may be pleasingly displayed on lawns ; while yuccas, 

 pampas grass, and bamboos are also ornamental in appropriate positions. 



Eaised beds are effective and easily constructed, especially if large enough to admit 



