234 
THE FLOEAL WOELD AJsD GAEDEN GEIDE. 
LEAF-EMBROIDERED FLOWER-BEDS. 
BY THOIIAS TRUSSLEK, EDJIORTON. 
EMEROUS examples of leaf-embroidered flower-beds 
to be met with in the public parks and private flower- 
gardens in the neighbourhood of the metropolis, afford 
the best possible evidence of the high estimation in 
Avhich this style of bedding is now held. Since it was 
first introduced it has undergone considerable modification, and it is 
now much improved, for the value of the several leaf-plants is 
better understood ; moreover, there is a greater wealth of material 
at the command of the planter, and the results altogether are more 
tasteful and satisfactory. Much might, of course, be urged against 
this style of planting, for it has its disadvantages as well as its 
advantages ; but when we consider that beds filled with leaf-plants 
present a most beautiful appearance, and from the day they are 
planted until far into the autumn, it will at once be seen that the 
general employment of plants with ornamental leaves can be strongly 
recommended. To plant the beds in a manner that will produce a 
rich and artistic effect, some knowledge of the true colours of the 
leaves and the habit of the plants are necessary, and tliose who are 
not acquainted with them will do well to pay a visit to one or more 
of the public parka in London sometime during the next two months. 
The best examples are as usual presented in Hyde Park and Victoria 
Park, both of which are most convenient of access. Although a 
visit to the parks is recommended, a good idea of the character of 
the plants and the colour of the leaves may be obtained by a careful 
perusal of these remarks, and by strictly following the directions 
which will be given for the propagation and management of the 
various subjects there will not be much difficulty in carrying out a 
moderately elaborate scheme. Attention is directed to the matter 
now, because the work of propagating a stock must be commenced 
this month, and although a large number of plants may be propa- 
gated in the spring, it is desirable to provide sufficient stocks of the 
majority now unless there is a well-appointed propagating-house in 
the garden. In the latter case it will suffice if about one-third of 
the number required is propagated in the autumn. 
No attempt will be made to write an elaborate essay on the 
arrangement of leaf-tints, as it is considered that details of the 
proper management of the plants required will prove more useful, 
although, perhaps, less interesting. Moreover, the illustration of an 
example I had the pleasure of seeing a short time since in the 
gardens of an enthusiastic amateur iu the neighbourhood of London, 
will alFord a good idea of the style of planting best adapted for pro- 
ducing a good eflect. The bed here figured is about sixteen feet in 
length, and six feet in width, and is situate in a conspicuous position 
upon the lawn. It is one of the best examples to be seen this 
season, and is so eminently suggestive that it will well repay careful 
examination. The planting is as follows : — 
