While it is too soon to lay down definite rules for 
the cultivation of all the dwarfs, many have proved 
hardy and not too difficult when a few simple pre¬ 
cautions are observed. All the species offered spent 
the winter of 1935-36 unprotected and unmulched 
in an open bed under oaks, their pots plunged in 
peat, with loss of about one per cent. 
But to thrive and bloom well, most of them need 
more light and root-range. The following situations 
have been found most suitable: moraine, pool edge 
or stream bank down within a few inches of the wa¬ 
ter, a perpetually wet hank or slope, a damp ravine 
opening north. If possible the roots should be able 
to reach water. Otherwise the hose must be used 
unfailingly. 
The soil must be strongly acid, the water free 
from lime. To insure acidity, plant in a mixture of 
acid peat and gravel, half and half. Then pack in 
on the surface a close mulch of quartz, granite or 
sandstone pebbles averaging the size of an egg or 
larger. 
Some species, when their roots can reach water, revel in full 
sun and grow much better for it. Others require the shade of a 
rock, still others of woodland. All will grow in shade, but not all 
will flower well or thrive there. Give them what sun they stand. 
