FROM SEED 
time with as much soil as possible around the 
roots and set them in holes large enough so 
that the roots will not be cramped. Water well. 
How to Winter Seedlings 
If started as late as August, most perennials 
should be left in the seed bed until spring, pro- 
tected with suitable covering put on just before 
the ground freezes. Straw, hay, or excelsior may 
be used; dead leaves are not practical as they 
are likely to mat down when wet and suffocate 
the little plants. The mulch should be several 
inches deep. A few pieces of board placed on 
top will keep it from blowing away. In spring 
the mulch should not be removed until danger 
of hard frost is past. 
Young perennials transplanted to the border 
should also be mulched for winter protection. 
Perennials Slow to Germinate 
Most perennials are slower than. annuals in 
vetting a start from seed. A few germinate in 
ten days; others, such as columbine, take two 
to three weeks; some take even longer. Do not 
be discouraged if there is no sign of life as 
soon as you think there should be. 
Beginners Can Succeed 
There are numerous perennials which even be- 
vinners can start from seed with almost certain 
success. Of the taller flowers, delphinium and 
hollyhock; of the medium growing, columbine, 
vaillardia, coreopsis, painted daisy, and sweet 
william; among the dwarfs, hardy alyssum, 
hardy pinks, and the violas. 
