THE SEMI-DRY GARDEN 
199 
lation of air given the plant-roots; and, where this is a requisite, 
one must cultivate, water, or face the loss of the plant. 
Another item of vital importance to insure success in a semi¬ 
dry garden is—the soil must not be of heavy texture. This may be 
secured by the addition of at least fifty per cent (preferably 
greater) humus (in the form of well-rotted vegetation) leaves, 
cottonseed hulls, straw, or commercial peat-moss, which is sold 
baled. Generally these enumerated plants for a dry garden will 
bloom profusely, but the bushes are more stunted, and the blos¬ 
soms are smaller than where more water is supplied. 
Prepare for the plants as for a cherished, welcome guest. They 
will respond generously, especially if they have been used to the 
climatic conditions and are immune to their intensities. Give them 
nearly the same growing conditions as they had in their habitat, 
with just a little more richness of food, and the reward will far 
exceed expectations. 
Margaret Scruggs. 
Soil 
Texture 
Important 
