32 



GRASS AND OTHER EDGINGS. [^l\Iarcll. 



give a few simple directions how to accomplish the work. 

 In the first place^ dig over the ground deeply where the 

 edging is intended to be planted, breaking the soil fine, and 

 keeping it to a proper height, namely, about one inch higher 

 than the side of the walk ; but the taste of the operator will 

 best decide, according to the situation. Kake the surface 

 even, and tread it down with the feet, or beat it with the 

 spade. Where it gives most, continue to add, keeping the 

 surface at the desired height. If the edging is to be in a 

 direct line, either on a level or inclined plane, you may be 

 correctly and simply regulated by making the desired level 

 at each end of the line. Take three rods, about four feet 

 long each, having a piece of one foot to cross at one end, 

 two of these pieces painted black, the other white. Have a 

 black one at each end of the line on the level ; take the white 

 one for the centre, going along the line, and, about every 

 twenty feet, level a spot to the exact height, which will be 

 seen by looking over the top of the rods from one end. 

 Having found the level, drive in a peg to it, so that no mis- 

 take may occur; beat and level between them, leaving a 

 smooth surface. This being done, strain the line, and with 

 the spade proceed to cut out the trench perpendicularly on 

 the side next the walk, six, eight, ten, or twelve inches deep, 

 according to the length of the plants. Afterwards take the 

 plants, and cut the tops even, with the knife or shears, at the 

 same time shortening the roots. Then with the left hand 

 next the line, plant forward, keeping the tops of the plants 

 level, and from one to two inches above ground, keeping the 

 plants close, according to the required thickness. Put in 

 the earth as you proceed, and tread it firm, then rake the 

 surface even, and with the spade beat it smooth. If the 

 weather sets in very dry, the box will be the better of a few 

 waterings. Sometimes boxwood is planted without roots, 

 but it seldom gives satisfaction; not growing equally. 



GRASS AND OTHER EDGINGS. 



Grass verges for walks and borders, although frequently 

 used, are by no means desirable, except where variety is re- 

 quired; they are the most laborious to keep in order, and 

 at best are inelegant, and the only object in their favor is 



