1875. ] 
GARDEN WORK FOR JANUARY. 
9 
This colouring produces a very symmetrical form of variegation. It received a 
First-class Certificate at the Royal Botanic Society’s show in April last.—T. Moore, 
GARDEN WORK FOR JANUARY. 
FLOWERS. 
/r===?HE fine open weather which we have had during the Autumn months 
(Lf)^ has been unusually favourable to the re-establishment of the various 
plants with which the beds are planted, and which have, till the advent of 
severe frosts, exhibited a freshness seldom seen at this season. The Laurus- 
tinus, that prettiest of winter-flowering shrubs, is blooming most profusely, 
as is also that highly-cherished plant, the Christmas Rose, which, by-the-by, is 
now eclipsed by a strong-growing variety, Helleboras niger mciximus , which is 
by far the finest form that I have seen. To preserve anything like a satisfactory 
aspect in the garden at this season, unremitted perseverance with the broom and 
roller is requisite, as the light falling leaves are whisked to and fro by every gust 
of wind. Complete the planting of Roses with as little delay as possible; securely 
stake standards, and mulch over the roots with short manure ; examine the 
security of the labels, &c. 
Hardy Trees and Shrubs should now be pruned, allowing specimen plants 
ample room to develop their individual characteristics. The operator should also 
studiously grapple with the capacity of the position and its surroundings, having 
in view landscape effect. Much improvement is often effected with but little 
expense by judiciously breaking into existing combinations and diversifying the 
scene. Landscapes may be opened out, as may also distant views or objects of 
interest, and vistas opened up, all tending to beautify and create new interest. 
Ground-work alterations of all kinds should be pushed forward during dry 
weather, also what planting may yet remain to be done, as the press of spring 
work will be upon us next month. 
Conservatories: So many choice plants will now be in bloom, that courage in 
discarding, in accordance with the space, becomes a material point towards effective 
display. In their disposition, there should be space enough between the plants 
for them to be well seen. The flowering-plants should be mingled liberally with 
ornamental-leaved plants. Palms and Ferns are both elegant and effective for 
this purpose. Remove plants immediately they show symptoms of decay ; dry 
off by degrees Gesneras and tuberous-rooted Begonias in a dry temperate medium. 
Poinsettias , after flowering, should be afforded a season of comparative rest, and 
be partially dried off. Some of the grandest of decorative plants are found 
amongst the varieties of hybrid Rhododendrons , and if those are chosen which 
have a disposition to bloom early, no plants are more easily forced, and 
their fresh rich foliage, with gorgeous flowers, form very striking objects, par¬ 
ticularly in large houses. The neat and charming Kalmia latifolia is very 
desirable for early forcing, also that favourite plant the Lilac , which is so fragrant 
and serviceable for cutting. There are several suitable varieties, including the 
Persian and Siberian sorts, which are perhaps the best adapted for early forcing. 
Large specimen plants in these structures are, at this season of the year, when 
fire-heat is necessary for the generality of plants in bloom, apt to become dry at 
the root, unless special attention is directed towards them ; they must be frequently 
examined, giving several good soakings of water, so as to thoroughly moisten the 
balls, when they are found to be at all dry. Camellias must at all times be kept 
moist at the root, and the atmosphere about them cool by free ventilation, if they 
are expected to retain their buds till late in the spring. What watering requires to 
