172 HARDY PERENNIALS 
of blue. Such a plant is worthy of some special 
attention, and this it must have if it is to do itself 
full justice. A deep root-run for its large fleshy 
roots must be provided, and if the soil is heavy, wet, 
and cold it is advisable to ameliorate it by incor- 
porating plenty of sharp sand, some leaf-mould, and, 
if possible, burnt ash or charcoal. The plants 
should be planted at an early age, and be left 
undisturbed. From the time growth is commenced 
until the plants are in full flower water must be 
given with a liberal hand, but as soon as flowering is 
over the soil should be allowed to become thoroughly 
dry. The best plan is to cover the plants with a 
glazed frame, or a handlight admitting plenty of 
air and sunlight, the object being to well roast the 
roots to thoroughly ripen them. In late Autumn 
the covering must be removed, for it is during the 
rainy period from November to February that the 
fleshy roots take up the moisture which will be 
required to promote vigorous growth the following 
Spring. 
Paeonia (Paeony). — The rich glory of the Paeonies, 
European or Chinese, is too widely known to require 
description or eulogy. Nor is it necessary to occupy 
much space with cultural instructions, for the 
Paeonies species and garden varieties alike are good- 
tempered and accommodating plants that ask only 
for ample root room, some nourishment and infre- 
quent disturbance. 
Paeonies should be planted for permanency, there- 
