76 
CHRYSANTHEMUMS. 
robust kind may be developed it is well to enrich the soil with 
some good lasting manure. The idea in planting against walls 
and fences is to cover them as far as possible, and by 
promoting a freer style of growth, our object is all the more 
likely to be achieved. Those of a branching character, too, 
may be utilised in this way, and no better plants could well be 
selected for this admirable purpose. 
If it be possible, plant against walls and fences having a 
w'arm aspect. We must not forget that the growths should be 
well ripened, and this may be brought about, the plants should 
be arranged in a southern or western position. Here the 
plants will revel, and one does not exaggerate when one says 
that in such a situation the display of a choice selection, as 
given at the end of this book, should exceed the most sanguine 
expectations of those disposed to try the experiment. Even 
here it is possible to make a pleasing disposition of the colours, 
and on no account should an incongruous arrangement of 
such be seen. That this unpleasant feature may be avoided, 
plant with a proper regard for the natural sequence of colours. 
Plant firmly, treading in the soil well round the plants, 
inserting at the same time a short stake, to which the young 
plants should be tied. When the plants branch out into 
growth, and the branches are sufficiently long, they should be 
fastened by the aid of shreds and nails. Do not fix them too 
tightly to the wall, but give the growths a little play. That 
this may be satisfactorily done, see that the shreds are rather 
longer than one ordinarily finds in use. Better still if a trellis- 
work of wire can be fixed up against the wall, and the growths 
tied to this ; their appearance at all times will be interesting. 
They may also be staked against the wall, and bamboo canes 
brought into requisition ; in fact, any known contrivance to 
give them an espalier-like arrangement should be used, and the 
ultimate effect of this simple contrivance will well repay one 
for the trouble taken. 
