174 MANAGEMENT OF THE FLOWER GARDEN. 
the dead leaves brushed away with a broom, before 
they grow ; and where the growth is uneven, it should 
be clipped, and it will then appear neat till midsum¬ 
mer, when it should be regularly trimmed. 
The grass plats, lawns, and verges, round the shrub¬ 
bery, should now be neatly edged with the edging iron, 
or trimmed close and even with a knife or shears. 
When the different beds and borders are planted, 
let them be neatly raked over that the surface may be 
perfectly clean and smooth, and have an agreeable 
appearance befitting the season. 
The gravel walks should also be hoed and raked 
over, and afterwards rolled evenly, as that will render 
them agreeable both to the sight and to the feet. 
Seeds of hardy annual flowers may now be sown 
such as Rocket Larkspur, Venus’ Looking Glass, Sweet 
Peas, &c., (see annual flowers, page 152.j These may 
be sown in small patches in the beds or borders, where 
they are to remain to flower. Dahlia roots may be 
brought from the cellar, and the roots divided, and 
planted out where they are to remain for flowering, 
setting the roots three or four inches deep. Gladio¬ 
luses, Commelinas, and other tolerably hardy roots 
may also be planted. 
As tne weather gets warmer, weeds will make their 
appearance; these should be destroyed with the hand 
or hoe, as is most convenient. Where the plants stand 
wide, let a sharp hoe be used, as it is the most expedi¬ 
tious way; and take advantage of a fine day to use it 
in cutting the weeds up clean, within the surface of 
the ground, stirring the earth between the plants, and 
cutting atvay any straggling shoots. Place sticks to 
