[ S7 ] 



A CORNER OF THE LAWN AT PANS HANG ER 



LAWNS AND WALKS. 



THE lawn is one of the most beautiful features of the English garden. In this cool 

 and moist climate it is easy to obtain those rich, velvety swards which are the 

 envy of dwellers in hotter and sunnier climes ; but, though the grass grows 

 freely, a good beginning and much after attention are necessary to maintain 

 the lawn in condition. 



SUITABLE SITES OR POSITIONS. — This is a most important point to consider. It is 

 easy to have a lawn in any aspect ; but if upon a steeply-sloping bank", a dry season soon 

 tells, especially if the soil be very shallow and the aspect due south. With a fairly level 

 plot of ground there is little trouble ; and a gently undulating piece of well-kept turf has 

 a more pleasing and soothing effect to the eye than a large tract of perfectly level grass. 

 But under no circumstances should there be holes or sudden sinking at places, whether upon 

 a bank or apparently natural undulation. Some portions should be level, and if it is desired 

 to have a tract of table-like smoothness, great care must be taken in the initial preparation 

 of the ground. 



SOILS AND DRAINAGE are of great importance, especially the last-named. Although 

 almost any soil will grow urass and weeds, a good loam, of medium richness, is necessary 

 to secure the best lawn grasses in good condition. If the soil be stiff and close, it can be 

 much improved by adding a few finely-sifted ashes. If poor, as well as close, then stable- 

 manures and a little coal soot are a great help. At the same time, where procurable, add 

 as much as possible of a lighter and richer loam, such as that from an old garden. A very 

 light soil is quite as much in need of improvement. Add stiff or heavy soil, and help also 



