The Conflict of the Winds 
Our Great Southwest —that section of this vast 
f country that extends down to the Gulf and to the very bor¬ 
ders of Old Mexico—possesses greater variety of climate and 
vegetation than has any similar area of this United States. From 
the lowlands of the semi-tropics to the foothills of the Rockies 
is little more than a day’s journey. The trail passes quickly from 
the land of the Oleander and the Orange trees—across the flower- 
studded prairies—thru the dry plains, covered with strange plants, 
and stunted trees—on to the mountainous districts where cacti and 
alpine plants all but mingle together. 
Here the winds play an important part. The soft moist breezes from 
the Gulf are counterbalanced by the icy blizzards from the Rockies, 
intermingled with the fierce heat-blasts from the arid desert regions. 
Each controls a special section, yet wields its influence over all. 
Extending northward from the Gulf and the Rio Grande, where 
semi-tropic plants predominate, every hundred mil^ 
a marked change in climate and vegetation is 
encountered. Noticeably distinct groups of 
plants grow in each well-defined belt. In addi¬ 
tion to climatic variabilities, definite character¬ 
istics have been developed by the effect of soil, a. 
tude, and general topography of the land. Spec 
families are to be found, also, in the various altituc 
for some demand mountain peaks or rocky hillsic 
while still others will grow only in woods or par 
shade, in swamps or on the banks of streams. Howe^s 
the greater majority of these garden plants, gv 
proper protection in location and exposure, wil 
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