WINDOW GARDENINO. 
287 
flowers by their velvety texture, which retains so much moisture, while their 
flowers will last well if a drop of gum arabic is dropped into each flower; and 
there are few that are more effectiye either in dress or table decoration. 
Heath retains its beauty for a long time, as do nearly all flowers which pos- 
sess a hard woody stem ; while Fuchsias, Heliotropes, etc., with soft, succulent 
stems eitlier drop their flowers, or turn black so quickly that their beauty is soon 
dsstrnj-cd. 
Carnations and Pinks are beautiful for floral decorations, and they keep their 
freshness for a long time. Verbenas and Chrysanthemums are also very desira- 
ble. Hyacinths will make 
exquisite vases, wreaths, 
etc., and double and single 
Tulips .are ornamental in 
decorating mantel ? pieces 
and tables. 
Anemones are uncqualed 
for a dinner table, as the 
full blaze of light exhibits 
their striking colors to 
great advantage, and the 
gorgeous scarlet, pink, pale 
blue and blue shading into 
white are per feet, but they 
require a soft mossy foli- 
age of Lycopodiums or 
Ferns. 
Azaleas are charming 
for every kind of adorn- 
ment. There are no 
flowers more perfect for 
ornamenting the hair and 
dress, but they fade 
quickly unless damp blot- fir. 36. Basket of cut Fioucia. 
ting paper or cotton or wool is rolled around their stems. 
Deutzia gracilis is very beautiful for any decoration ; and it is in much request 
so that the florists force large quantities of it every winter. Roses of every shade 
are always admirable; too many of them were never seen. 
Stephanotisfloribundais ever welcome ; its snowy, waxen, fragrant flowers be- 
ing adapted to every floral ornament, and the same remark applies to the sweet 
Cape Jessamines, the Myrtle and the Orange blossom. 
Bouvardias, Tuberoses, Mignonette, and all the sweet blossoms, are also to be 
desired for arranging in the various devices at present employed in decorating 
apartments, etc., for festive occasions. 
Mounting and weaving flowers is a mechanical operation that is often useful. 
