Snowdrop Tree.—See "Halesia."

Snowflake.—See "Leucojum."

Snow in Summer.—See "Arabis."

Soil and its Treatment.—Loam is a mixture of clay and sand. When the former predominates it is termed heavy loam, and when the latter abounds it is called light.

Marl is a compound of chalk and clay, or chalk and loam. Though suitable for certain fruit-trees and a few other things, few flowers will grow in it.

Drainage is one of the most important considerations in the cultivation of flowers. Should the soil be clayey, and hold water, make V-shaped drains, 3 ft. below the surface, and let 2-in. pipes lead to a deep hole made at the lowest part of the garden and filled with brick rubbish, or other porous substances, through which the water may drain; otherwise the cold, damp earth will rot the roots of the plants.

Trenching is the process of digging deep, so as to loosen and expose the soil as much as possible to the action of the air. If this is done in the autumn or early winter to a new garden, it is best to dig it deep, say about 2 ft, and leave it in large clods to the pulverizing action of the frost, after which it is easily raked level for spring planting. If the clods are turned over the grass will rot and help to improve the ground; new land thus treated will not require manuring the first year. Should the ground be clayey, fine ashes or coarse sand thrown over the rough clods after trenching will greatly improve it.

Digging should be done when the ground is fairly dry, and about one spade deep. Avoid treading it down as much as possible.

Hoeing must be constantly attended to, both to prevent the soil becoming exhausted of its nourishment by the rapid growth of weeds, and because when the surface becomes hard and cracked the rain runs through the deep fissures, leaving the surface soil dry and the roots of the plants unnourished.

Mulching consists in spreading a layer of stable manure, about 3 in. deep, over the roots of trees and plants in the autumn to keep them warm and moist. The manure may be forked into the soil in the spring.

Watering the plants carefully is of great consequence. Evening or early morning is the best time, and one copious application is far better than little and often. Water may be given to the roots at any time, but should not be sprinkled over the leaves in a hot sun nor in cold weather. Plants having a soft or woolly foliage should never be wetted overhead, but those with hard and shiny leaves may be freely syringed, especially when in full growth.

Solanum.—Showy greenhouse shrubs, some of which have ornamental foliage. The soil in which they are grown should be light and rich. Cuttings planted in sand under glass strike readily. The tender annual varieties may be sown on a hotbed in spring, and placed in the border at the end of May in a dry, sheltered situation, where they will flower in June. Height, 1 ft. and upwards.

Soldanellas.—These small herbaceous perennials should find a place in all Alpine collections. They grow best in sandy peat, or in leaf-mould with a liberal addition of sand, and they require a moderate amount of moisture. They may be increased by dividing the roots in April. They flower from March to May. Height, 4 in. or 5 in.

Solidago (Golden Rod).—A useful hardy perennial for the back of borders. Throughout late summer and autumn it produces masses of golden flowers. It is not over-particular as to soil, and may be increased by dividing the root in the spring. It increases very rapidly. Height, 2 ft. to 6 ft.

Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum Multiflorum).—A graceful hardy plant bearing white pendulent flowers on long curving stems. Plant freely in light, rich soil, in a shady position or under trees. The plants should not be disturbed, even by digging among the roots. Flowers in May. Height, 2 ft.

Soot-Water.—For room and window plants soot-water has this advantage over coarse animal manures, that while the latter are unhealthy and apt to taint the air, the former is purifying and has no unpleasant smell. It is easily made by tying a little soot in a coarse canvas bag and immersing it in a pail of water. It should be applied in a clear, thin state to plants in bud or in full growth during the summer months.

Sorrel.—Sow in March or April in any garden soil, thin out to 1 ft. apart. It is desirable to cut away the flower-stems and to divide the roots every two or three years. The plants may be forced for winter use.

Southernwood (Artemisia Arborea).—Any soil suits this odoriferous bush, and it is readily increased by cuttings or by division.

Sparaxis.—Closely allied to the Ixias, equally beautiful and varied in colour, but rather dwarfer and compact in growth. Invaluable for pot-culture. For outdoor cultivation plant them early in September, 5 or 6 in. deep, on a sheltered border, in rich, well-drained, loamy soil. Protect from frost and wet in the winter, but keep the roots moist while they are growing. For indoor cultivation plant four to six bulbs in a 5-in. pot, plunge in ashes in a cold frame, withholding water till the plants appear. When making full growth remove them to a sunny window or conservatory, and water them carefully. They will bloom in March or April. Height, 3 ft.

Sparmannia Africana.—An exceedingly handsome and attractive greenhouse evergreen shrub, thriving best in loam and peat. Cuttings may be struck in sand under glass. May is its flowering season. Height, 10 ft.

Spartium Junceum(Yellow Broom).—A hardy evergreen shrub which will grow in any soil, and is propagated by seeds. It flowers in August. Height, 6 ft.

Specularia Speculum.—See "Venus's Looking-Glass."

Spergula Pilfera.—May be grown in any moist situation in sandy soil. It is of little value.

Sphenogyne Speciosa.—An elegant hardy annual. Sow the seed early in spring on a gentle hotbed in loam and peat, harden off, and transplant at the end of May to a soil composed of loam and leaf-mould, if peat cannot be obtained. The bloom is produced in July. Height, 1 ft.

Spider Wort.—See "Commelina" and "Tradescantia."

Spigelia Marilandica.—From August to October this hardy perennial produces tubular crimson and yellow flowers. It finds a congenial home in damp peat, shaded from the sun, and may be propagated by cuttings in loam and peat under glass. Height, 1 ft.

Spinach.—For summer use sow the round-seeded kinds at intervals of two or three weeks from February to the end of July in rows 1 ft. apart, cover with the finest of soil, and thin out to a distance of 3 or 4 in. In dry weather give a liberal supply of manure water. Pull before it runs to seed. For winter use sow the prickly-seeded variety in August and September, and thin the plants out 9 in. apart. If the ground is hot and dry, the seed should be soaked for twenty-four hours before it is sown. New Zealand Spinach may be sown in the open during May, choosing the warmest spot for its growth; but it is best to sow it in heat in March, keeping the soil fairly moist, and, after hardening it off, to plant it out in June, 3 ft. apart Sow Perpetual Spinach or Spinach Beet in March in drills 1 ft. apart. Cut the leaves frequently, when a fresh crop will be produced.

Spiraeas.—Placed in the open ground these make splendid plants, and are not particular as to soil, though a moist, rich one is preferable. For forcing, plant the clumps in 6-in. pots, and keep them in a cool frame until they are well rooted. They may then be removed indoors and forced rapidly, supplying them with an abundance of water. Their elegant flower spikes are invaluable for bouquets and table decoration. The shrubby kinds are increased by layers or cuttings of the young wood, the herbaceous varieties by division of the roots in autumn. Spiraea Aruncus, if potted early in the autumn, is very valuable for winter decoration. Spiraeas bloom at different periods, from May to August, and vary in height, 3 or 4 ft. being the general growth.

Spruce Firs.—See "Abies."

Stachys Coccinea.—This scarlet hardy annual is fine for bees. It may be grown in any soil from seed sown in March or April. Height, 1 ft.

Stachys Lanata.—A hardy perennial which will grow in any soil, and bears division. It flowers in July. Height, 2 ft.

Staphylea Colchica(Mexican Bladder Nut).—This beautiful free-flowering shrub will grow in any garden soil, and produces bunches of fragrant, delicate white flowers in June. It forces well, and may be made to flower at Easter by potting it in rich, light soil, placing it in a cold frame till the middle of January, keeping the roots moist, then bringing it into the warm house. It may be propagated by suckers from the roots, by layers, or by cuttings taken in autumn.

Star Flower.—See "Trientalis."

Star of Bethlehem.—See "Ornithogalum."

Statice (Sea Lavender).—The greenhouse and frame varieties succeed best in sandy loam and peat, and may be increased by cuttings placed under a bell-glass or in a warm pit. The hardy herbaceous kinds are very suitable for the front of flower borders, and may be freely increased by seeds or division. The annuals, if sown in March, will produce flowers in July. Statices require a good amount of water, but thorough drainage must be ensured. If the flowers are dried they will keep their colour for a considerable time. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

Stauntonia Latifolia.—A greenhouse evergreen climbing plant, which needs a peat and loam soil and plenty of room for its roots. It flowers in April, and is increased by cuttings planted in sand under glass, with a gentle heat. Height, 10 ft.

Stenactis (Fleabane).—Showy hardy perennials which make fine bedding plants. They may be grown from seed, which is produced in great quantities, and merely requires the same treatment as other perennials, or they may be propagated by dividing the plants. They bloom in July. Height, 2 ft.

Stephanotis.—This pretty evergreen twining plant is most suitable for the greenhouse, and flourishes in a mixture of loam and leaf-mould. It flowers in May, and is increased by cuttings struck in heat. Height, 10 ft.

Sternbergia Lutea.—A hardy perennial which produces bright yellow flowers in August. It likes a rich soil, and is propagated by off-sets. Height, 6 in.

Stipa Pennata (Feather Grass).—One of the most graceful of our ornamental grasses, and most attractive in the border. The seed may be sown early in March, keeping the ground moist until it has germinated, and it is also increased by division. Height, 2 ft.

Stobæa Purpurea.—A hardy border plant with long spiny foliage, and bearing from July to September large light blue flowers. It requires a light, rich soil. Young cuttings may be struck in sand. Height, 1 ft.

Stocks—

ANNUAL, OR TEN WEEKS' STOCKS.—Sow the seeds in February, March, April, and May for succession; those sown in May will continue to flower till Christmas. The soil should be rich, and occasionally a little manure-water may be given. Another sowing may be made in August and September. When the plants have several leaves pot off singly in vegetable loam and river sand. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

BROMPTON.—Sow very thinly during the first week in May in a rich, light, sandy border, with an eastern aspect. When 2 or 3 in. high, thin out to 9 in. apart. Those taken out may be re-planted in the flower border, 9 in. from each other. In transplanting reject those plants having a long tap-root: they generally prove to be single. If the following winter be severe they must be protected with mats. Any desirable varieties may be propagated by cuttings, which root readily under glass if kept shaded. Should it be desirable to transplant them to another part of the garden, March or April will be found the best time to remove them. Shade the plants till they are established, and use liquid manure till they begin to flower.

GREENHOUSE OR SHRUBBY species grow best in a mixture of light soil and sand, and cuttings of these Stocks root readily under glass.

NIGHT-SCENTED STOCKS.—See "Mathiola Bicornis." If Emperor, Imperial, or Intermediate Stocks are sown in March or April, they will flower in the autumn; if sown in June or July they will flower during the following June, and throughout the summer and autumn.

Stokesia Cyanea.—A handsome herbaceous perennial which is quite hardy, but owing to the late period at which it flowers its blooms are liable to be cut off by frosts. It is therefore more suitable for a cool house than the open air, unless the warmest and most sheltered position be assigned to it. A rich, sandy soil is indispensable for its growth. It may be increased by dividing the roots in spring. The flowers are produced from October to December. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Stonecrop.—See "Sedum."

Strawberries.—The soil most suitable for the growth of this fruit is a rich, deep, adhesive loam. July or early in August is the best time to make new beds, but if the ground be not then available runners from the old plants may be planted in peat on a north border and lifted with good balls of earth to their permanent bed in the spring. Set them firmly in rows 2 ft. apart and 18 in. from plant to plant. Spread out the roots and avoid deep planting. Remove from the old plants all runners not required for new beds before they take root, as they exhaust the crown. In dry seasons liquid manure is highly beneficial. Some growers give supports to the fruit by means of forked-shaped pegs, while others lay straw down to keep the fruit free from grit. Keep a sharp look-out for snails and slugs. King of the Earlies, Auguste Nicaise, Royal Sovereign, Vicomtesse Héricart de Thury, Gunton Park, President, Sir Joseph Paxton, Lord Suffield, Noble, and Samuel Bradley are excellent sorts. For Ornamental Strawberries, see "Fragaria Indica."

Strawberry Tree.—See "Arbutus."

Streptocarpus (Cape Primrose).—This plant is a greenhouse perennial, showing great variety of colours, from white to violet and crimson, and is of neat habit. A light and rather rich soil or vegetable mould suits it best. Seed sown in February in slight heat will produce plants for flowering in July; that sown in March or April will flower in August and September. Grow slowly in small pots, and in February put them in their flowering pots. Give plenty of air and shade them from the sun. It may also be increased by division, or leaf-cuttings may be taken under a bell-glass. The plants like plenty of water, but need good drainage. Height, 9 in.

Streptosolen Jamesoni.—A good compost for this greenhouse evergreen shrub is two parts sandy loam, one part leaf-mould, and a little silver sand. During growth it needs a liberal supply of water and to be kept near the glass; only a small amount of moisture should be given in winter. In March cut it into shape, and re-pot it as soon as new growth starts. During the summer syringe it frequently to keep off red spider, and during winter maintain a temperature of 55 degrees.

Stylophorum (Celandine Poppy, or Poppywort).—During May and June this hardy and handsome plant produces fine yellow flowers. It accommodates itself to any soil, but prefers a rich, light one, and can be increased by seed sown in autumn or early spring. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Styrax.—Ornamental shrubs requiring a light soil for their cultivation. S. Japonica has Snowdrop-like flowers, and S. Obasa Lily-of-the-Valley-like scented flowers. They are best propagated by layers. Height, 4 ft. to 10 ft.

Sunflower.—See "Helianthus."

Swainsonia Galegifolia Alba.—A graceful and charming cool greenhouse plant, with Fern-like evergreen foliage and pure white flowers, which are borne from April to November. The soil most suitable for it is a mixture of loam and sandy peat. Cuttings of the young growth planted in sand under glass strike readily. Height, 2 ft.

Swallow Wort.—See "Asclepias."

Swamp Lilies.—See "Zephyranthes."

Swan River Daisy.—See "Brachycome."

Sweet Alyssum.—See "Alyssum."

Sweet Flag.—See "Acorus."

Sweet Peas.—See "Peas, Sweet."

Sweet Rocket.—See "Rocket."

Sweet Scabious.—See "Scabious."

Sweet Sultan.—Sweet-scented, Thistle-shaped hardy annual flowers, which are very useful for cutting. They may be raised in any garden soil from seed sown in March or April, and will flower in August. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Sweet William.—Well-known hardy perennials, and deservedly favorite border plants, which may be grown in any good soil; but to have them to perfection they should be placed in light, loamy ground mixed with a little old manure and sand. They can be raised with little trouble from seed sown thinly at any time between March and midsummer where they are to bloom, and may also be increased by dividing the old plants in spring. They produce their flowers in July. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Symphoricarpus (Snowberry).—A handsome species of St. Peter's Wort. The shrubs will grow in any ordinary soil, are hardy, and readily propagated by suckers, which are produced abundantly; or cuttings may be taken either in spring or autumn. They bloom in August. Height, 4 ft.

Symphytum Caucasicum.—Hardy perennials. They will grow in any soil or situation, even thriving under the shade of trees, and may be increased by division. June is the month in which they flower. Height, 3 ft.

Syringa (Lilac.)—There are many choice varieties of these favourite shrubs, but any of them may be grown in a tolerably good soil. They are propagated by layers or by suckers from the root. They bloom in May or June. Height varies from 4 ft. to 12 ft.

Flowers Encyclopedia: Snowdrops to Syringa from: Florists: Attribution license: Flowers, Roses, and Flowers Online

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Habrothamnus.—These beautiful evergreen shrubs require greenhouse culture, and to be grown in sandy loam and leaf-mould. The majority of them flower in spring. Height, 4 ft. to 6 ft.

Halesia Tetraptera (Snowdrop Tree).—This elegant shrub will grow in any soil, and may be propagated by cuttings of the roots or by layers. The pendent white flowers are produced close to the branches in June. Height, 8 ft.

Hamamelis (Witch Hazel).—An ornamental shrub which will grow in ordinary soil, but thrives best in a sandy one. It is increased by layers. May is its season for flowering. Height, 12 ft. to 15 ft. H. Arborea is a curious small tree, producing brownish-yellow flowers in mid-winter.

Harpalium Rigidum.—A hardy perennial, producing very fine yellow flowers in the autumn. It will grow in any good garden soil, and may be propagated by seed sown in early autumn, or by division of the roots. Height, 3 ft.

Hawkweed.—See "Crepis" and "Hieracium."

Heartsease.—See "Pansies."

Heaths, Greenhouse.—For their successful growth Heaths require a well-drained soil, composed of three parts finely pulverised peat and one part silver sand, free ventilation, and a careful supply of water, so that the soil is always damp. If they suffer a check they are hard to bring round, especially the hard-wooded kinds. Some of the soft-wooded Heaths, such as the H. Hyemalis, are easier of management. After they have flowered they may be cut hard back, re-potted, and supplied with liquid manure. The stout shoots thus obtained will bloom the following season. (See also "Ericas.")

Hedera.—See "Ivy."

Hedychium Gardnerianum.—A hothouse herbaceous plant, delighting in a rich, light soil, plenty of room in the pots for the roots, and a good amount of sunshine. In the spring a top-dressing of rich manure and soot should be given. From the time the leaves begin to expand, and all through its growing stage, it needs plenty water, and an occasional application of liquid manure. The foliage should not be cut off when it dies, but allowed to remain on all the winter. While the plant is dormant keep it rather dry and quite free from frost. It may be increased by dividing the roots, but it blooms best when undisturbed. July is its flowering month. Height, 6 ft.

Hedysarum.—Hardy perennials, requiring a light, rich soil, or loam and peat. They may be raised from seed, or increased by dividing the roots in spring. H. Multijugum bears rich purple flowers. Height, 6 in. to 3 ft.

Heleniums.—The Pumilum is a very pretty hardy perennial that may be grown in any soil, and increased by dividing the roots. It produces its golden flowers in August. Height, 1-1/2 ft. H. Autumnale is also easy to grow, but flowers a month later than the Pumilum, and attains a height of 3 ft. H. Bigelowi is the best of the late autumn-flowering species, producing an abundance of rich yellow flowers with purple discs. Flowers in August. Height, 3-1/2 ft.

Helianthemum Alpinum (Rock Roses).—These hardy perennials are best grown in sandy loam and peat, and may be increased by cuttings placed under glass in a sheltered situation. Bloom in June or July. Height, 1 ft.

Helianthus (Sunflowers).—The tall variety is a very stately plant, suitable for the background or a corner of the border. Well-grown flowers have measured 16 in. in diameter. The miniature kinds make fine vase ornaments. They grow in any garden soil, and are easily increased by seed raised on a hotbed in spring and afterwards transplanted. The perennials may be propagated by division of the root. They produce their flowers in August. Height, 3 ft. to 6 ft.

Helichrysum.—Fine everlasting hardy annuals, that grow best in a mixture of three parts peat and one part sandy loam. May be readily raised from seed sown in a cold frame in March, or cuttings taken off at a joint will strike in peat and sand. Bloom during July and August. For winter decoration the flowers should be gathered in a young state, as they continue to develop after being gathered. Height, 1 ft. to 6 ft, but most of them are 2 ft. high.

Heliophila.—Pretty little hardy annuals, thriving best in sandy loam and peat. Sow the seed early in spring in pots placed in a gentle hotbed, and plant out in May. They flower in June. Height, 9 in.

Heliopsis.—This hardy perennial is useful for cutting purposes, the flowers being borne on long stalks, and lasting for two or three weeks in water. It is not particular as to soil, and may be increased by dividing the roots. Height, 5 ft.

Heliotrope.—Commonly called Cherry Pie. Sow the seed early in spring in light, rich soil in a little heat, and plant out in May. The best plants, however, are obtained from cuttings taken off when young, in the same way as Verbenas and bedding Calceolarias. They are very sensitive to frost. Flower in June. Height, 1 ft.

Helipterium.—A half-hardy annual, bearing everlasting flowers. It should receive the same treatment as Helichrysum. Blooms in May or June. Height, 2 ft.

Helleborus (Christmas Rose).—As its name implies, the Hellebore flowers about Christmas, and that without any protection whatever. The foliage is evergreen, and of a dark colour. When the plant is once established it produces flowers in great abundance. The plants of the white-flowered variety should be protected with a hand-light when the flower-buds appear, in order to preserve the blossoms pure and clean. Any deeply-dug rich garden soil suits it, and it is most at home under the shade of a tree. It prefers a sheltered situation, and during the summer months a mulching of litter and an occasional watering will be beneficial. Readily increased by division in spring or seed. Height, 1 ft.

Helonias Bullata.—A pretty herbaceous plant, bearing dense racemes of purple-rose flowers from June to August. It grows best in peat, in a moist position. It can be raised from seed or increased by division of the roots. Height 1-1/2 ft.

Hemerocallis (Day Lily).—Old-fashioned plants of great merit. Planted in large clumps they produce a grand effect. They are easily grown in any common garden soil, and bloom in July. Height, 3 ft. H. Kwanso has handsome, variegated foliage.

Hemp.—See "Canna" and "Cannabis."

Hepatica.—This enjoys a rather light, sandy soil and a shady situation. The roots should be taken up and divided every second year. Well adapted for surrounding beds or clumps of Rhododendrons. Flowers in March. Height, 4 in.

Heracleum.—Coarse hardy biennials, that may be grown in any kind of soil, and are readily raised from seed. They flower at midsummer. Height, 2 ft. to 4 ft.

Herbs.—Thyme, Marjoram, Chervil, Basil, Burnet, Hyssop, Savory, etc., should be sown early in spring, in dry, mild weather, in narrow drills about 1/2 in. deep and 8 or 9 in. apart, covered evenly with soil, and transplanted when strong enough. Mint is quickly increased by separating the roots in spring, and covering them with 1 in. of earth. Sage is propagated by slips of the young shoots taken either in spring or autumn. If planted in light soil and in a sunny position it produces very fragrant flowers. Chives should be planted 6 or 8 in. apart: they are increased by division in spring. Penny Royal, like mint generally, will grow from very small pieces of the root; it needs to be frequently transplanted, and to be kept from a damp condition. Rosemary will grow from cuttings planted under glass in a shady spot. Thyme likes a light, rich soil, and bears division. Sorrel will grow in any soil, and the roots should be divided every two or three years. Chamomile roots are divided and subdivided in spring. Herbs should be harvested on a fine day, just before they are in full bloom. Tie them up in small bunches and hang in the shade to dry, then wrap in paper and store in air-tight vessels, or rub the leaves to a powder and keep in tightly-corked bottles. They will retain their strength for a long time.

Herbs, the Uses of Sweet and Pot.—

ANGELICA.—A biennial. Leaves and stalks are eaten raw or boiled; the seeds are aromatic, and used to flavour spirits.

ANISE.—Leaves used for garnishing, and for seasoning, like fennel; the seeds are medicinal.

BALM.—A hardy perennial. Makes a useful tea and wine for fevers.

BASIL, Sweet and Bush.—Half-hardy annuals. The leaves and tops of the shoots, on account of their clove-like flavour, are used for seasoning soups and introduced into salads.

BORAGE.—Hardy annual. Used for salads and garnishing, and as an ingredient in cool drinks; excellent also for bees.

CHAMOMILE.—A hardy perennial. Flowers used medicinally.

CARAWAY.—A biennial. Leaves used in soups, and the seeds in confectionery and medicine.

CHERVIL.—An annual. Useful for salads.

CHIVES.—Hardy perennial. The young tops used to flavour soups, etc.

CORIANDER.—A hardy annual. Cultivated for garnishing.

DILL.—A hardy perennial. Leaves used in soups and sauces, also in pickles.

FENNEL.—Hardy perennial. Used in salads and in fish sauce, also for garnishing dishes.

HOREHOUND.—Hardy perennial. Leaves and young shoots used for making a beverage for coughs.

HYSSOP.—Hardy evergreen shrub. Leaves and young shoots used for making tea; also as a pot herb.

LAVENDER.—Hardy perennial. Cultivated for its flowers, for the distillation of lavender water, for flavouring sauces, and for medicinal purposes.

MARIGOLD, Pot.—Hardy annual. Flowers used in soups.

MARJORAM, Sweet or Knotted, and Pot.—Hardy annuals. Aromatic and sweet flavour. Used for stuffings and as a pot herb; leaves dried for winter use.

RAMPION.—Hardy perennial. Roots used as a radish; they have a nutty flavour.

ROSEMARY.—Hardy ornamental shrub. Sprigs used for garnishing and the leaves in drink.

RUE.—Hardy evergreen shrub. Leaves used for medicinal drinks; useful for poultry with croup.

SAGE.—Hardy perennial. Decoction of leaves drank as tea; used also for stuffing, meats, and sauces.

SAVORY, Summer.—Hardy annual. Used for flavouring soups and salads.

SAVORY, Winter.—Hardy evergreen shrub. Its aromatic flavour makes it valuable as a pot herb.

SCURVY GRASS.—The small leaves are eaten as watercress.

SKIRRET.—Hardy perennial. Sweet, white, and pleasant; the tubers are boiled and served up with butter.

SORREL, Broad-Leaved.—Hardy perennial. Imparts an acid flavour to salads and soups.

THYME, Broad-Leaved.—Hardy perennial. Young leaves and tops used for stuffing, also in soups and sauces.

TARRAGON.—Hardy perennial. For flavouring vinegar; also used in salads, soups, and pickles.

WORMWOOD.—A hardy shrub. Beneficial to horses and poultry, and is used for medical purposes.

Herniaria Glabra.—These dwarf carpeting plants are of easy culture. Grow from seed in spring and transplant into sandy soil. Height, 1-1/2 in.

Hesperis.—See "Rocket."

Heuchera.—Very neat, but not showy, hardy American perennials. They may be grown in any ordinary light garden soil, are increased by dividing the root, and bloom in May. Height, 1 ft. to 2 ft.

Hibbertia Dentata.—An evergreen twining plant, requiring a greenhouse for its cultivation and a soil of sandy loam and peat. It flowers in July, and is increased by cuttings taken in spring or summer and kept under glass. Height, 6 ft.

Hibiscus Africanus.—A handsome hardy annual Mallow. Sow in March in slight heat, and plant out in May 10 in. apart. Grows best in a mixture of loam and peat. Blooms in June. Height, 2 ft.

Hibiscus Syriacus (Rose of Sharon).—A hardy, deciduous, autumn-flowering shrub, which will grow in common soil, and may be propagated by seeds, layers, or cuttings planted under glass. Height, 6 ft.

Hieracium (Hawkweed).—A free-growing hardy perennial, suitable for a sunny bank or border. It is not particular as to soil. From June to September it produces orange-brown flowers. It grows freely from seed, and the roots bear division. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Hippeastrums.—See "Amaryllis."

Hippocrepis.—Very pretty hardy trailing perennials, covered from May to July with golden Pea-shaped flowers. They will grow in any light, sandy soil, and may be increased by cuttings, which root readily under glass. Height, 3 in. to 6 in.

Hippophae.—Ornamental shrubs, thriving in ordinary soil, and increased by layers or cuttings of the roots. H. Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn) flowers in May. Height, 12 ft.

Holboellia Latifolia.—See "Stauntonia Latifolia."

Holly (Ilex).—This pleasing hardy evergreen shrub thrives best on a deep, sandy loam, but will grow in any good soil, provided the position is dry. It succeeds well in the shade. Cuttings of young shoots having 1 in. of the old wood attached will strike root, but the plant is of very slow growth, and takes at least four years to grow into a good bush. Choice varieties may be grafted or budded on to the common sorts in June or July. To grow Holly from seed, gather the berries when ripe, crush them, and mix them up with a little sandy loam, bury them in a hole 3 ft. deep, and cover with litter. Dig them up and sow them in March. Big bushes are best moved at the end of August, mixing the earth to a puddle before planting. The less pruning they receive the better. They may be trimmed in spring.

Hollyhock.—May be raised from seed or cuttings. Sow the seed about the second week of March in very rich soil, and cover it with 1 in. of dry earth. In June (having soaked the bed thoroughly overnight) remove the young plants to a nursery-bed, setting them 6 in. apart. Press the earth firmly round the roots, and water plentifully until settled. In the autumn plant them where they are to bloom. Cuttings may be taken as soon as the flowers appear, or from the old plants in autumn. Each joint having an eye will furnish a plant. Select side branches having two or three joints and leaves. Cut the shoots through just under the lower joint, leaving the leaf entire; cut it also about 2 in. above the joint. Plant in equal parts of loam, gritty sand, and leaf-mould; shelter from the sun, and sprinkle them every day in fine weather with water. If the cuttings are taken in autumn pot them off in 60-sized pots, and keep them in a cold frame till the spring, when they may be planted out. Flowers in August. Height, 6 ft.

Homerias.—Beautiful little South African plants. For out-door cultivation plant the bulbs in a dry, warm situation, from October to January, 3 in. deep, and the same distance apart, in rich, light, well-drained soil, and protect them from heavy rains with a good layer of leaves. For pot culture put four or five bulbs in a 5-in. pot, place in a cold frame, and cover with cocoa-nut fibre until the growth appears. Water moderately, and when the flowers fade abstain from supplying moisture. The bulbs are not quite hardy, therefore they should be removed indoors before frosts appear.

Homogyne Alpina.—Hardy herbaceous plants flowering in April. Any soil is suitable for them, and they may be increased by division. Height, 6 in.

Honesty (Lunaria).—Interesting hardy biennials. When dried, the shining seed-pods make a handsome addition to winter bouquets, mixed with ornamental grass. Any common soil suits them. Sow the seed any time from April to June, and transplant them to the border in the autumn for flowering the following May. Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 3 ft.

Honeysuckles.—These rapid twiners thrive in any loamy soil, and may be increased by putting down layers in the autumn, after the leaves begin to fall. They can also be propagated by cuttings taken in the autumn and planted in a shady, sheltered spot. Caprifolium Brachypoda and the evergreen C. Sempervirens are handsome, free-flowering kinds, suitable for almost any situation. C. Aurea-reticulata has beautifully variegated leaves, which render it very ornamental. Height, 6 ft. to 8 ft.

Hop.—A useful hardy climber for covering verandahs, summer-houses, etc. Plant in rich, loamy soil, and increase by dividing the roots. (See also "Humulus Japonicus.")

Hordeum Jubatum (Squirrel-tail Grass).—A very pretty species resembling miniature barley. Sow seed in March, covering it very lightly, and keep the surface of the soil moist till the grass appears. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Horminum Pyrenaicum.—This hardy perennial produces erect white flowers with blue corolla in June or July. It will grow in any ordinary soil, but needs protection in winter, as it is apt to be injured by damp. It may be propagated either by seed or division. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Horn Poppy.—See "Glaucium."

Horseradish.—Plant in October or February in deep, rich soil; or it may be grown on a heap of cinder-ashes, or on any light ground through which the roots can make their way readily. The best way to increase it is by slips taken from the roots. It requires little or no attention beyond pinching out the tops when running to seed and keeping the ground hoed.

Hotbeds, to Make.—Take dead leaves and stable-straw, with the dung, in the proportion of two double loads for a three-light frame. Turn it over four or five times during a fortnight, watering it if it is dry. Then mark out the bed, allowing 1 ft. or more each way than the size of the frame. Shake the compost well up, and afterwards beat it down equally with the fork. Place the frame on the bed, leaving the lights off for four or five days to allow the rank steam to escape. Keep a thermometer in the frame, and as soon as the temperature falls below 70 degrees apply a lining of fresh dung to the front and one side of the bed, and when this again declines, add another lining to the back and other side, and so on from time to time as occasion requires. The mats used for covering the frames in frosty weather should be made to fit the top, and not hang over the sides.

Houseleek.—See "Sempervivum."

Houstonia Coerulea.—These hardy little evergreens are more generally known as Bluets. They make charming ornaments for rock-work, planted between large stones, but in this position they need protection from severe frosts. When planted in pots and placed in a cold frame they show to most advantage. A mixture of leaf-mould and sand, and a moist but well-drained situation is what they delight in. They bloom continuously from April to July. Height, 3 in.

Hovea Celsi.—A greenhouse shrub, which is evergreen and elegant when in flower in June. A sandy loam and peat soil is most suitable, and it may be increased by cuttings planted in sand under a hand-glass. Height, 3 ft.

Humea.—A remarkably handsome and graceful plant, the leaves of which when slightly bruised yield a strong odour. It is equally suitable for the centre of beds or large borders, and placed in pots on terraces or the lawn it is very effective. The seed should be raised on a gentle hotbed, then potted off and kept in the greenhouse till the second year, when it may be turned out into a warm situation. It generally succeeds better in such a position than in the greenhouse. Flowers in July. Height, 6 ft. to 8 ft.

Humulus Japonicus.—(Japanese Hop).—A hardy annual Hop of rapid growth, the leaves of which are splashed with white. Useful for covering arbours, verandahs, etc. A deep, loamy soil suits it best. Increased by seed sown in gentle heat in February, and gradually hardened off. Flowers in July. Height, 20 ft.

Hutchinsia Alpina.—This small alpine creeper is a profuse bloomer, its glistening white flowers being produced at all seasons. It grows in moist vegetable mould, and bears transplanting at any season. Care, however, is required to prevent its roots over-running and choking other things. Height, 2 in.

Hyacinths.—May be grown in pots, in glasses, or in beds and borders. The soil should be rich and light. Good loam mixed with old manure and a little leaf-mould and sand suits them very well. If intended to be grown in pots the best time to begin potting is early in September, putting more in at intervals of two or three weeks until the end of December. One bulb is sufficient for a 5-in. or 6-in. pot, or three may be placed in an 8-in. pot. The soil under the bulb should not be pressed down. The top of the bulb should be just above the surface. Place the pots on a bed of ashes in a cold frame, put a small inverted pot over the top of the bulb, and cover the whole with cocoa-nut fibre or cinder-ashes to the depth of about 4 in. In about a month roots will have formed with about 1 in. of top growth. The plants may then be taken out, gradually exposed to the light, and finally removed to the conservatory or sunny window. The doubles do best in pots.

For growing in glasses select the firmest and best-shaped bulbs. Those with single blossoms are preferable, as they are of stronger constitution than the doubles. Fill the glasses with pure pond or rain water, so that the bulbs just escape touching it, and put a piece of charcoal in each glass, and change the water when it becomes offensive, taking care that the temperature is not below that which is poured away. Stand the glasses in a cool, dark place for three or four weeks until the roots have made considerable progress, then gradually inure to the full light. September is a good time to start the growth.

When planted in beds or borders, place the bulbs about 4 in. deep and 6 in. apart, putting a little silver sand below each one. This may be done at any time from October till frost sets in. They succeed fairly well in any good garden soil, but give greatest satisfaction when the ground is rich and light.

Hyacinthus (Muscari).—A very hardy race of spring-flowering bulbs. Though the varieties are very dissimilar in appearance, they all produce a good effect, especially when planted in good large clumps. Plant from September to December. A sandy soil suits them best. The following are well-known varieties:—BOTRYOIDES (Grape Hyacinth).—Very pretty and hardy, bearing fine spikes of deep, rich blue flowers in compact clusters on a stem 6 to 9 in. high. Sweet-scented, and blooms about May. The Alba, or white, variety is also sweet-scented.

Hyacinthus—continued.

CANDICANS (Galtonia).—The white Cape Hyacinth, or Spire Lily. A hardy, summer-flowering, bulbous plant 3 ft. to 4 ft. in height, gracefully surmounted with from twenty to fifty pendent, bell-shaped snow-white flowers. Thrives in any position and equally suitable for indoor or outdoor decoration.

MOSCHATUS (Musk Hyacinth).—Bears very fragrant purplish flowers.

PLVMOSUM (Feather Hyacinth).—A fine, hardy, dwarf plant suitable for any soil. Its massive sprays of fine blue flowers, arranged in curious clusters, 5 to 6 in. in length, resemble much-branched slender coral.

RACEMOSUM (Starch Hyacinth).—Rich dark-blue or reddish-purple flowers. Very free-flowering and fine for massing. It is similar to the Cape Hyacinth, but flowers in denser spikes.

Hydrangea.—This shrub delights in a moist, sheltered position and rich soil. It may be increased at any time from cuttings of the young side-shoots, 2 or 3 in. long, under glass, in sandy soil. The old stems will also strike if planted in a sheltered situation. The plants should be cut back when they have done flowering, and protected from frost; or they may be cut down to the root and covered with manure. They are well suited for the front of shrubberies, and also make fine plants for pot cultivation. The flowers are produced in June and July. Height, 3 ft.

Hymenanthera Crassifolia.—Ornamental evergreen shrubs, thriving best in a compost of loam and peat. They are increased by cuttings planted in sand and subjected to a little heat. Height, 6 ft.

Hymenoxys.—Pretty little hardy annuals that may be easily raised from seed sown early in March in any garden soil. They bloom in June. Height, 1 ft.

Hypericum (St. John's Wort).—Favourite dwarf shrubs. Any soil suits the hardy kinds, but they prefer shade and moisture. These may be increased by seed or division. The greenhouse varieties thrive best in a mixture of loam and peat. Young cuttings placed in sand under glass will strike. July is their flowering season. Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 2 ft.

Letter “H” | Habrothamnus-Holly-Hypericum from: Florists: Attribution license: Flowers, Roses, and Flowers Online

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Cabbage.—Sow from February to April for an autumn supply, and in
July and August for spring cutting. As soon as the plants have made four
or five leaves, transplant into soil that has been liberally manured and
trenched, or dug deeply, placing them 18 in. or 2 ft. apart, according
to the kind grown. Keep the soil well broken up, and give a liberal
supply of liquid manure while they are in a growing state. An open and
sunny situation is necessary. Among the best varieties for spring sowing
are Heartwell, Early Marrow, Little Pixie, Nonpareil, Sugarloaf, and
Early Dwarf York. For autumn sowing, Ellam’s Dwarf Early Spring,
Defiance, and Enfield Market may be recommended.

Coleworts may be sown in June, July, and August for succession, placing
them about a foot apart, and cutting before they heart.

Chou de Burghley is of great value for spring sowing, and will be found
very useful during autumn and early in winter. This vegetable is
sometimes called Cabbage Broccoli, on account of the miniature Broccoli
which are formed among its inner leaves towards autumn.

Couve Tronchuda, known also as Braganza Marrow and Portugal Cabbage,
should be sown in March, April, and May for succession.

Savoy Cabbage is sown in March or April, and given the same treatment as
other Cabbage. Its flavour is much improved if the plants are mellowed
by frost before being cut for use.

Red Dutch is used almost solely for pickling. Its cultivation is
precisely the same as the white varieties.

Cacalia.—Hardy annuals, remarkable for their awkward-looking stems
and discoloured leaves. They grow best in a mixture of sandy loam, brick
rubbish, and decomposed dung, well reduced. They require very little
water while growing, and the pots must be well drained. Cuttings, laid
by for a few days to dry, strike readily. Flower in June. Height, 1-1/2
ft.

Cactus.—A sandy loam with brick rubbish and a little peat or
rotten manure suits them. Echinopsis is a good plant for cool houses or
windows. During the summer it should be syringed over-head with tepid
water, and weak soot water should be given three times a week. It is
propagated by off-sets planted in sand, also by slicing off a portion
from the top of the plant and placing it in light, rich, porous loam.

Caladiums.—Favourite hothouse foliage plants, generally grown in
peat soil at a temperature of 70 degrees. They require plenty of light
while growing, and to be kept moderately moist at the roots. As the
leaves lose colour less water should be given, and during winter they
must be kept almost dry. When fresh growth begins, shake them out of
their pots and put them into fresh mould. In syringing the plants use
nothing but the purest rainwater, but the less the leaves are wetted the
better for the appearance of the plants. They may be increased by
dividing the root stock into as many pieces as there are crowns. These
should be planted in very rich, sandy soil, an inch or so below the
surface.

Calamintha Grandiflora.—This hardy herbaceous plant has
sweetly-fragrant foliage, and bears rose-coloured flowers from May to
September. Any loamy soil suits it, and it is easily increased by
suckers. Height, 1 ft.

Calampelis.—A species of half-hardy climbing plants of great
merit. They are elegant when in flower, and will endure the open air.
They should be trained to a south wall, or over a vase, or up a pillar.
Any light loamy soil suits them, and they are easily increased by
cuttings. Flower in July. Height, 10 ft. (See also “Eccremocarpus.”)

Calandrinia.—Very pretty hardy annuals. They grow well in sunny
places in a mixture of loam and peat, and may be raised from seed sown
in the spring or by cuttings placed under hand-glasses. Bloom in July.
Height, 6 in. to 1 ft.

Calceolaria.—Many of the varieties are suitable for the greenhouse
only. They may be grown from seed, but as this is so small it should not
be covered; and in watering them it is best to stand the seed-pans in
water so that the moisture ascends, as watering from the top might wash
the seed too deeply into the soil. July and August are the two best
months for sowing. The half-shrubby kinds make fine bedding plants. They
are easily reared from cuttings. These are best taken in October. Put
them in light, sandy mould on a well-drained north border; press the
earth round them, and cover with a hand-glass. In very frosty weather a
mat should be laid over the glass. Pot them off in spring; give plenty
of air, and plant them out at the beginning of June, or before, if
weather permits.

Calendula (Marigolds).—Very showy hardy annuals. They merely
require sowing in the open in autumn for an early display of bloom, or
in spring for a later show, but the autumn sowing gives the more
satisfaction. Flower during June and July. Height, 1 ft.

Californian Plants.—Great care should be taken not to allow the
sun to strike on the collar of any of the plants from California, as
they readily succumb if it does so.

Calla.—These showy plants, sometimes called Arum, are worth
cultivating. They make handsome pot-plants, bearing fine white flowers
in the spring. May be grown from seeds, or roots may be divided. They
are quickly increased by off-sets from the root in August or September.
Plant the off-sets from the fleshy roots singly in small, well-drained
pots of sandy loam with one-fourth leaf-mould or well-rotted manure, and
keep them in a very warm situation. Water them well while in growth,
scantily after the leaves begin to wither, and afterwards give only
enough moisture to keep them alive. Leave the plants in the light while
the leaves die off, and then place them in a shed, in complete repose,
for a month or so. Re-pot them in October or November, and give plenty
of water. They may stand in saucers of water, but this must be changed
daily. They flower from May to July. Height, 2 ft.

Callichroa.—A hardy annual which well deserves a place in the
garden border, both on account of its dwarf and slender habit and also
the colour of its flowers. It is satisfied with any ordinary soil. The
seed is raised on a hotbed in March, or in the open in April, and it
blooms in the autumn. Height, 1 ft.

Calliopsis.—See “Coreopsis.”

Callirhoe (Digitata).—Hardy annuals demanding but little
attention. The seed is sown in the open in March. Height, 1 ft.

Calochortus Luteus.—This very handsome hardy perennial thrives
best in sandy peat with a little loam. It produces yellow flowers in
July, and is propagated by offsets from the bulbs. Height, 1 ft.

Caltha.—Early-flowering, showy perennials, all thriving in a moist
or boggy situation. C. Leptosepala is especially choice, its pure white
flowers resembling a water-lily. They may be increased from seed, or by
division. Height, 1 ft.

Calthus Palustris Flore-Pleno (Double Marsh Marigold).—This
hardy herbaceous perennial is very useful for mixing with cut flowers.
It will grow anywhere, but prefers a clayey soil and a boggy situation,
and may be increased by dividing the roots in spring. A succession of
flowers are borne from April to June. Height, 9 in.

Calycanthus Floridus (Allspice).—This shrub likes an open loamy
soil; flowers in July, and is propagated by layers. Height, 6 ft.

Calystegia.—A perfectly hardy climbing convolvulus, and a
beautiful plant for covering arbours, etc., growing 20 ft. to 30 ft. in
one season. It thrives in any loamy soil or situation; flowers from May
to September, and may be increased by division of the roots.

Camassia Esculenta.—A handsome, hardy, bulbous plant, bearing
clusters of beautiful blue flowers in July. It needs a sandy peat border
under a north wall, and is increased by bulbs or seeds. Plant the bulbs
early in October, 4 in. deep and 5 in. apart. Height, 1-1/3 ft.

Camellias.—The best soil for these beautiful greenhouse evergreens
is a mixture of rough peat, plenty of sand, and a little turfy loam. The
greenhouse should be kept rather close, at a temperature of 55 degrees
to 60 degrees, while the plants are growing; but abundant syringing is
necessary at all times. Induce a vigorous growth of wood, and let this
be well matured by exposure to the sun and free ventilation. Old and
straggling plants may be renovated by cutting them hard back as soon as
they go out of flower, and placing them in a warm house where a moist
atmosphere is maintained. This will induce them to break. Comparatively
little water should be given for some time after they are cut back. When
the state of the roots require the plants to be re-potted, remove as
much of the old soil as possible without injuring them, and put them
into the smallest sized pots into which they can be got, with fresh
soil. This may be done after the last flower has fallen, or after the
buds have fairly commenced to push. The plants may be placed out of
doors at the beginning of June, and returned to the greenhouse in
October. There are several varieties suitable for growing in the open.
These should be provided with a soil, 2 ft. deep, composed of peat,
leaf-mould, and cows’ dung. The roots should always be kept moist and
cool, and the plants disturbed as little as possible. A top dressing of
fresh soil may be given each winter, and the plants protected from frost
by binding straw round the stems.

Campanula.—A showy genus of plants, mostly hardy perennials, which
need no special treatment. They are readily raised from seed, or
division of roots. The less hardy kinds may be sown on a hotbed or in
the greenhouse, and when large enough potted off. Campanula Mayii is a
grand plant for hanging baskets, and also grows well trained up sticks
in a pyramidal form. A rich, gritty soil suits them all. The
tall-growing varieties make fine pot-plants. Flower in July. Height, 1
ft. to 5 ft.

Canary Creeper (Tropaeolum Canariense).—This is eminently
suitable for trellis-work or for walls. Its elegant foliage and bright
yellow flowers make it a general favourite. It may be raised from seed
on a hotbed in spring, gradually hardened off, and planted out in May.
Height, 10 ft.

Candytuft (Iberis).—Very pretty hardy annuals. Sow the seed in
autumn in a light, rich soil, or in spring if a less prolonged flowering
season will give satisfaction. Bloom in May or June. Height, 1 ft.

Canna (Indian Shot or Hemp).—For pot-plants on terraces, gravel
walks, and such like places, few things can equal and none surpass
Cannas. They are half-hardy perennials, and may be increased from seed
or by dividing the roots late in autumn, allowing them first to
partially dry. File the tough skin off one end of the seed, and steep it
in hot water for a few hours before it is sown, then stand it in a hot
place till it has germinated. Harden off and plant out, or shift into
larger pots in June, using a rich, light soil. Lift and store the roots
in autumn in the same way as Dahlias. Different kinds flower at various
seasons, so that a succession of bloom may be had throughout the year.
Height, 2 ft. to 10 ft.

Cannabis Gigantea (Giant Hemp).—This half-hardy Hemp is grown
for its ornamental foliage, and is treated as above described. Height, 6
ft.

Canterbury Bells.—Showy hardy biennials, which may be raised from
seed sown in the spring. Transplant in the autumn to the border where
they are intended to flower. The seed may also be sown in a sheltered
position in August or September. Flower in July. Height, 2 ft.

Cape Primroses.—See “Streptocarpus.”

Caprifolium.—See “Honeysuckle.”

Capsicum.—Sow early in March in well-drained pots of rich, light,
free mould; cover the seed with 1/2 in. of soil, and keep it constantly
moist at a temperature of 65 degrees. When strong enough to handle put
two or three plants in a 5-in. pot, and replace them in warmth. Keep
them rather close till established, then shift them into 7-in. pots.
When established remove them to a cold frame and harden off. Plant out
at the end of May in a warm situation. Keep them well supplied with
water in dry weather and syringe the leaves. By stopping the shoots they
become nice, bushy shrubs. Flower in July. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Cardamine Pratensis (Cuckoo Flower, or Milkmaid).—This hardy
perennial thrives in a moist, shady situation. It produces its purple
flowers from May to August, and is easily propagated by seeds or
division. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Cardamine Trifolia.—A hardy herbaceous plant; will grow in any
soil, flowers in May, and is easily raised from seed. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Cardoons.—Sow two or three seeds together in clumps 1 ft. apart,
in trenches prepared as for Celery, in April or May. When 6 in. high
pull up the superfluous plants, leaving the strongest one in each case.
When they have attained the height of 1-1/2 ft, tie the leaves lightly
to a stake and earth-up the stem. Keep them well supplied with water,
adding a little guano. They will be ready for use in September. Another
sowing may be made in June for a spring crop.

Carduus (Milk Thistle).—Coarse hardy annuals; somewhat
ornamental, but are hardly more than weeds. They grow freely from seed,
and flower from June to August. Height, 2 ft. to 4 ft.

Carex Japonica.—This is a graceful and very beautiful variegated
grass, striped green, silver, and gold, and makes a fine decoration for
the table. It will grow in any moderately moist soil, and bears
dividing. Sow in spring.

Carlina.—Ornamental, thistle-like, hardy perennials, which will
grow in any ordinary soil. Flowers are borne from June to September.
Seed may be sown as soon as it is ripe. Height, 9 in. to 2 ft.

Carnations.—These are divided into three classes, but they are all
said originally to come from the clove: (1) Flakes, which are striped
with one colour and white; (2) Bizarres, those streaked with two colours
and white; (3) Picotees, which have each petal margined with colour on a
white or yellow ground, or dotted with small spots. For pot culture,
about the end of March put two roots in an 11-in. pot, filled with
light, turfy loam, well drained (too much moisture being injurious),
pressing the earth firmly round the roots. Stand them on a bed of ashes
in a sheltered position, and when the flower-stems appear, stake and tie
up carefully. As the buds swell thin out the weakly ones. To prevent
them bursting unevenly put an india-rubber ring round the bud, or tie it
with raffia. They will flourish in the open borders even in towns if
planted in light loam, and may be propagated by layers at the end of
July or beginning of August. Choose for this purpose fine outside
shoots, not those which have borne flowers. Cut off all the lower
leaves, leaving half a dozen near the top untouched. Make incisions on
the under sides of the layers, just below the third joint. Peg down, and
cover the stems with equal quantities of leaf-mould and light loam. Do
not water them till the following day. The young plants may be separated
and potted off as soon as they have taken root—say, the end of August.
They may also be increased by pipings. Fill the pots nearly to the top
with light, rich mould and fill up with silver sand. Break off the
pipings at the third joint, then in each piping cut a little upward
slit, plant them pretty thickly in the sand, and place the pot on a
gentle hotbed, or on a bed of sifted coal ashes. Put on the sashes, and
keep the plants shaded from the sun till they have taken root, then
harden off gradually, and place each of the young plants separately in a
small pot. Carnations may also be grown from seed sown in spring. When
the seedlings have made six or eight leaves, prick them out into pots or
beds. They will flower the following year. The beds must be well
drained, as stagnant wet is very injurious to them.

Carnation Margaritae.—May be sown in heat during February or
March, pricked out when strong enough, and planted in the open in May or
June.

Carpenteria Californica.—The white flowers of this evergreen
shrub, which make their appearance in July, are delicately fragrant. The
plant is most suitable for a cool greenhouse, but does well in the open,
in warm, well-drained situations. When grown in pots the mould should
consist of two parts turfy loam, one part peat, and a little sharp sand.
It may be increased by seeds or by cuttings planted in sandy soil, with
a medium bottom heat.

Carrots.—To grow them to perfection carrots require a deep, rich,
sandy soil, which has been thoroughly trenched and manured the previous
autumn. For the main crop the seed should be sown in March, either
broadcast or in rows 18 in. apart. A calm day must be chosen for sowing,
as the seed is very light and liable to be blown about. It has also a
tendency to hang together, to obviate which it is generally rubbed into
some light soil or sand previously to being scattered. Thin out to a
distance of from 4 to 7 in., according to the kind grown. For early use
the French Horn may be sown on a hotbed in January and February. Keep
the surface of the ground well open with the hoe.

Cassia Corymbosa.—This stove shrub is an evergreen. It should be
grown in a mixture of loam and peat, and may be increased by cuttings
planted in sand under glass in a little heat. It flowers in July.
Height, 3 ft.

Castor Oil Plants.—See “Ricinus.”

Catananche.—Pretty hardy biennials that will grow in almost any
soil, and may be increased by seed or division. They bloom in August.
Height, 2½ ft. to 3 ft.

Catchfly.—See “Silene.”

Cathcartia Villosa.—A beautiful Himalayan poppy, possessing a
rich, soft, hairy foliage and yellow flowers, borne in succession from
June to September. Any light, rich soil suits it, but it requires a
sheltered position. It is propagated by seeds sown in spring. Height, 1½
ft.

Cauliflowers.—Sow thinly in pans or shallow boxes early in
February and March on a gentle bottom-heat. Make a larger and the main
sowing in the open ground in March, April, and May for autumn cutting. A
sowing should also be made in August for spring and summer use. These
latter should be pricked into a frame or under a hand-glass during the
winter, and in spring planted out so as to stand 30 in. apart. When the
heads appear break some of the large leaves down over them to afford
protection, and during the whole of their growth pour plenty of water
round the stems in dry weather. They require a thoroughly rich and
well-tilled soil to grow them to perfection.

Ceanothus.—A genus of handsome and ornamental evergreen shrubs.
They are free-flowering and suitable for the conservatory or outdoor
decoration if placed in warm situations. They flourish best in peat and
loam, and are increased by cuttings planted in sand and subjected to
gentle heat. Height, 3 ft. to 6 ft.

Cedronella.—Ornamental hardy perennials; will grow in any soil,
but require a little protection in the winter. They produce their deep
purple flowers in June. Height, 3 ft.

Cedrus Deodora.—A beautiful and graceful conifer, its arched
branches being thickly set with long grey-coloured or whitish-green
leaves. In its young stage it makes an exquisite specimen for the lawn.
It is the best of all the Cedars for such a purpose. The usual method of
propagating it is by grafting it on to the common Larch.

Celery.—Sow in February or early in March on a mild hotbed for the
earliest crop. Prick the seedlings off into shallow boxes as soon as
they are large enough to handle, and keep them rather close and warm
until they are established. Towards the end of March prick them out in
rows in a frame, setting them 6 in. apart each way, and early in May
transfer to rather shallow trenches, protecting them from night frosts.
For main and late crops sow in a cold frame in April and plant out in
June or July, 9 in. apart, in trenches 3 ft. distant from each other, 9
in. wide, and 18 in. deep, pressing the soil firmly round the roots.
Earthing up should be delayed until the plants are nearly full grown,
and should be done gradually; but let the whole be completed before the
autumn is far advanced. When preparing the trench plenty of manure
should be dug into the soil. Water liberally until earthed up to ensure
crisp, solid hearts, and an occasional application of liquid manure will
benefit the plants. During winter protect from frost with straw, or
other suitable material.

Celosia (Feathered Cockscomb).—Sow the seed in early spring in a
warm frame; prick off singly into small pots, and re-pot as they advance
in strength in a compost of loam, leaf-mould, old manure, and sand.
Their final shift should be into 24-sized pots. Give them abundance of
liquid manure, never allowing them to become dry, and syringe freely.
These half-hardy annuals, rising to the height of 3 ft. and bearing fine
spikes of flowers in July and August, make fine pot-plants for table
decoration. They may be planted in the open, in June, choosing a warm,
sheltered situation and rich, loamy soil.

Centaurea.—The hardy annual and biennial kinds merely require to
be sown in the open in the autumn. The half-hardy ones must be sown on a
slight hotbed, where they should remain till strong enough to be planted
in the border. Cuttings of the perennials should be inserted singly in
3-in. pots filled with sandy loam, placed in a shady, cool frame till
established, and then watered very carefully. The different varieties
vary from 6 in. to 2 ft. in height, and flower from June to August.

Centauridium Drummondi.—A blue hardy annual which may be sown in
the open in spring.

Centranthus.—Ornamental hardy annuals. Sow in the open border in
March in any good, well-drained soil. They flower in June. Height, 1-1/2
ft.

Cephalaria (Yellow Scabious).—Strong-growing hardy perennials,
suitable for backs of borders. They succeed in any garden soil, and are
propagated by seed or division of root. Height, 3 ft. to 5-1/2 ft.

Cephalotaxus (Podocarpus Koraiana).—Handsome conifers of the Yew
type. These shrubs are quite hardy, and in favoured localities will
produce berries. They succeed best in a damp, shady spot, and may be
increased by cuttings planted in heavy loam.

Cerastium Biebersteini.—A hardy trailing perennial which will grow
in any light soil, and may be increased by suckers. It flowers in June.
Height, 6 in.

Cerasus Padus (Bird Cherry).—An ornamental tree; useful in the
shrubbery in its earlier stages, as it will grow in any soil. It may be
increased by seed, budding, or grafting; flowers in April. Height, 35
ft.

Cerinthe.—Hardy annuals, suitable for any ordinary soil, and
needing merely ordinary treatment. A grand plant for bees. Height, 1 ft.

Letter “C”| Online Flowers Encyclopedia from: Florists: Attribution license: Flowers, Roses, and Flowers Online

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Babianas.—Charming, sweet-scented flowers, suitable for either pot
cultivation or the border. In August or September place five bulbs in a
well-drained 5-in. pot, using rich, light, very sandy soil; cover them
completely, and press the mould down gently. Water very sparingly until
the roots are well formed; indeed, if the soil is moist when the bulbs
are planted, no water will be needed till the new growth appears above
ground. Stand the pots in ashes and cover them with 3 in. of cocoa-nut
fibre. When the flower spikes are formed, give weak liquid manure twice
a week till the flowers open. Keep them in a temperature of 55 degrees.
When the foliage begins to die down gradually, lessen the amount of
moisture given. The bulbs while dormant are best left in the pots. For
cultivation in the open, choose a warm situation, make the soil light
and sandy, adding a good proportion of well-rotted manure, and plant the
bulbs 5 in. deep either in autumn or spring. Height, 6 in. to 9 in.

Bahia Lanata.—A hardy herbaceous plant of easy culture from seed
sown in spring or autumn in any garden soil. It produces bright orange
flowers from June to August. Height, 1 ft.

Bahia Trolliifolia.—This hardy herbaceous perennial will grow in
any kind of soil. It flowers in August, and can be increased by
division. Height, 1 ft.

Balsams.—The seeds of these tender annuals require to be sown in
early spring in a hot-house or a warm frame having a temperature of 65
to 75 degrees. When 2 or 3 in. high, or large enough to handle, prick
off singly into small pots, shade them till they are established, and
re-pot as they advance in strength in a compost of loam, leaf-mould,
sand, and old manure. Give them air when the weather is favourable. The
last shift should be into 24-sized pots. Supply them with an abundance
of liquid manure, admit as much air as possible, and syringe freely.
They must never be allowed to get dry. Secure their stems firmly to
sticks. They will flower in the open early in September. Height, 1-1/2
ft. to 2 ft.

Bambusa.—The dwarf-growing Bamboos Fortunei variegata and
Viridi-striata make graceful edgings to borders or paths. The whole
family like a rich, loamy, damp soil.

Baneberry.—See “Actæa.”

Baptisia Australis.—This ornamental hardy perennial makes a good
border plant, growing in any loamy soil, and producing its blue flowers
in June and July. It can be multiplied by dividing the root. Height, 3
ft.

Barbarea.—See “Rocket.”

Barberries.—Very ornamental hardy shrubs, bearing rich yellow
flowers in spring and attractive fruit in the autumn. Most handsome when
trained to a single stem and the head allowed to expand freely. They are
not particular as to soil, but prefer a rather light one, and succeed
best in a moist, shady situation. Cuttings or layers root freely in the
open. They require very little attention, beyond occasionally cutting
away some of the old branches to make room for new growth. Height, 1-1/2
ft. to 2 ft.

Bartonia aurea.—Beautiful hardy annuals, the flowers of which open
at night and effuse a delightful odour. Sow the seed in autumn on a
gentle hotbed; pot off, and protect in a greenhouse during the winter.
Plant them out in the open in May, where they will flower in June.
Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Bay, Sweet (Laurus Nobilis).—This half-hardy evergreen shrub
likes a sheltered position. Protection from severe frosts is requisite,
especially while it is young. It is more suitable as an isolated
specimen plant than for the border. Increased by layers or by cuttings
of the roots.

Beans, Broad.—A deep, strong loam is most suitable, but good crops
can be obtained from any garden soil. The first sowing should be made in
February or March, and in succession to May. A sowing of Beck’s Green
Gem or Dwarf Fan may even be made in November in rows 2 ft. apart. Other
varieties should be planted in rows 3 ft. apart, sowing the seed 3 in.
deep and at intervals of 6 in. When the plants have done flowering pinch
off the tops, to ensure a better crop; and if the black fly has attacked
them, take off the tops low enough down to remove the pests, and burn
them at once. Seville Longpod and Aquadulce may be recommended for an
early crop, and Johnson’s Wonderful and Harlington Windsor for a main
one.

Beans, French.—The soil should be dug over to a depth of at least
12 in. and liberally enriched with manure. In the open ground the first
sowing may be made about the third week in April, another sowing early
in May, and subsequent sowings for succession every two or three weeks
until the end of July. Plant in rows 2 ft apart, and the seeds 6 to 9
in. apart in the rows. A sharp look-out ought to be kept for slugs,
which are very partial to French Beans when pushing through the soil.
For forcing, sow in pots under glass from December to March.

Beans, Runner.—These are not particular as to position or soil,
but the best results are obtained by placing them in a deep rich mould
where they can get a fair amount of sunlight. Sow, from the second week
in May until the first week in July for succession, in rows 6 ft. apart,
thinning the plants out to 1 ft. apart in the rows. Protect from slugs
when the plants are coming through the ground, and support them with
sticks immediately the growth begins to run. Scarlet Runners may be kept
dwarf by pinching off the tops when the plants are about 1 ft. high, and
nipping off the subsequent shoots when 6 in. long.

Beet.—Land that has been well manured for the previous crop is the
best on which to obtain well-shaped roots of high quality. Sow in April
and May in drills 18 in. apart, and thin out the plants to about 9 in.
apart. Take up for use as wanted until November, when the whole crop
should be taken up and stored in dry sand, and in a place where neither
moisture nor frost can reach them. When storing them cut off the tails
and some portion of the crowns, but be careful not to wound any part of
the fleshy root.

Begonias.—A somewhat succulent genus of conservatory plants. They
all require a very rich loamy soil containing a little sand; and heat,
moisture, and shade are essential to their health. Cuttings 2 or 3 in.
long will root readily in spring or summer. Stand the cuttings in the
shade and do not over-water them; or they may be raised from seed sown
in March in a hot-house or frame having a temperature of 65 degrees.
Height, 1 ft. to 3 ft.

Tuberous Begonias should be planted in small pots placed in heat, early
in spring, and at intervals of a fortnight for succession, using a
compost of equal parts of fibrous loam, leaf-mould, and sand. Press the
soil rather firmly so as to promote sturdy growth, and only just cover
the top of the tuber. Water moderately till the plants begin to grow
freely. Gradually harden off, and plant out the last week in May or
early in June, or shift into larger pots for conservatory decoration.
Cuttings may be taken in April. The plants may also be raised from seed
sown in February or March in a temperature of 65 degrees. Before sowing
mix the seed with silver sand, then sprinkle it evenly over a box or pan
of moist, fine, light loam and silver sand; cover with a sheet of glass,
and keep shaded. Transplant into small pots, and pot on from time to
time as the plants increase in size. Plants so treated will flower in
June or July. When the leaves of the old plants turn yellow keep the
roots quite dry, afterwards turn them out of the pots and bury them in
cocoa-nut fibre till January, when they must be re-potted.

Belladonna Lily.—See “Amaryllis.”

Bellis Perennis.—See “Daisies.”

Benthamia.—An ornamental half-hardy shrub. A profuse bloomer, the
flowers of which are followed by edible strawberry-like fruit. Will
succeed in any good garden against a south wall. Easily raised from seed
or by layers. Flowers in August. Height, 3 ft.

Berberidopsis Corallina.—Distinct and very pretty evergreen
climbing shrubs, which prove hardy in the south and west, but need
protection in other places. They are not particular as to soil, and may
be increased by cuttings.

Bergamot (Monardia Didyma).—This hardy perennial will grow
almost anywhere, and may be increased by seed or by division of the
root. It flowers in July. Height, 4 ft.

Beta Cicla.—A hardy annual which succeeds in any common soil. Its
dark crimson and yellow flowers are borne in August. Height, 6 ft. It is
used as spinach. In Germany the midrib of the leaf is boiled and eaten
with gravy or melted butter.

Betonica.—See “Stachys.”

Biennials.—These plants take two years to flower, and then they
die away altogether. The seed of the hardy varieties is sown thinly in
the open border any time between April and June, and the plants
transferred in the autumn to the place where they are intended to bloom.
Seed is also sown in August and September for flowering the following
year. The half-hardy kinds may be sown in May or June. These require
protection during winter, such as is afforded by a cold pit, frame, or
greenhouse, or the covering of a mat or litter.

Bignonia (Trumpet Flower).—This is admirably suitable for a
south wall, but it requires plenty of room. It is propagated by cuttings
placed in sand, or by cuttings of the root. These should be planted out
in the spring, or autumn will do if they are covered with a hand-glass.

Biota.—See “Thuya.”

Bird Cherry.—See “Cerasus.”

Blackberries.—To obtain good crops plant in a poor, dry soil on
raised banks facing south. The bushes should be planted 6 ft. apart.

Bladder Nut.—See “Staphylea.”

Blanket Flower.—See “Gaillardia.”

Bleeding Heart.—See “Dielytra.”

Bocconia Cordata.—Ornamental hardy perennials. They do best on a
loamy soil, and may be increased by suckers taken from established
plants in the summer and placed in rich soil; or by cuttings planted in
sand, in a gentle heat under glass; also by seed sown during the autumn
months. They appear to the greatest advantage when grown as solitary
plants, away from other tall-growing flowers. The variety B. Frutescens
has an exceedingly pretty foliage. August is the month in which they
flower. Height, 6 ft.

Bog or Marsh Land.—By planting a few of the more distinct species
adapted for such positions, bogs or marshes may be made interesting. The
following plants are suitable:—Arundo Donax, Bambusa Fortunei,
Cypripedium Spectabile, Dondia Epipactis, Drosera Rotundifolia, Gunnera
Scabra, Iris Kaempferi, Iris pseud-Acorus, Juncus Zebrinus, Myosotis
Palustris, Osmunda Regalis, Parnassia Palustris, Pinguicula Vulgaris,
Polygonum Sieboldi, and Sarracenia Purpurea.

Boltonia Asteroides.—This is a hardy perennial which flowers in
September. The same treatment that is given to Asters is suitable for
this plant. Height, 3 ft.

Bomarea.—A useful greenhouse climber, the flowers of which are
valuable for cutting, as they last a long time in water. It thrives best
in a mixture of sand, peat, and loam.

Borago Laxiflora.—This very choice Boragewort is a trailing hardy
biennial. It produces lovely pale pendent flowers from June to August,
will grow in almost any soil, and can be increased by seed or division.
Height, 1 ft.

Borecole, Kale, or Curled Greens.—Sow towards the end of March or
early in April. Plant out as soon as ready in moderately rich soil in
rows 3 ft. apart, and the plants 2 ft. apart in the rows. If the seed is
sown thickly, the young plants must be pricked off into another bed
until ready for planting, as strong, sturdy plants always produce the
best results. They may succeed peas without any fresh manure.

Boronias.—Greenhouse evergreen shrubs. A single plant of B.
Megastigma is sufficient to perfume a good-sized house. B. Drummondi,
Elatior, Heterophylla, and Serrulata are all good plants. The pots
should be filled with sandy peat and be well drained. They are
propagated by cuttings taken at a joint and placed under glass. May is
their flowering month. Height, 2 ft.

Bougainvillea.—A greenhouse evergreen climber, thriving best in a
loamy soil. It flowers in June, and may be increased by cuttings.
Height, 15 ft.

Bousingaultia Basselloides.—A rapidly growing climber, beautiful
both in flower and foliage, the former of which is pure white, produced
in July in elegant racemes from 6 in. to 8 in. long. It is nearly hardy;
very suitable for a cool greenhouse. Any garden soil suits it. Height, 6
ft.

Bouvardias.—Favourite stove plants. They are propagated by pieces
of the thick fleshy roots, about 2 in. long, inserted in light, rich,
sandy soil, and plunged in a bottom-heat. Plant out in May in rich,
light soil, cutting back all the over-vigorous growth, so as to form a
well-balanced plant. At the approach of cold weather they may be taken
up and potted off, using small pots to prevent them damping off. In a
warm greenhouse they will flower all the winter.

Box Edging.—A deep loam suits the box best. Cuttings should be
taken early in autumn. Dig a trench, and make the bottom firm and even.
Set the young plants thinly and at regular intervals, leaving the tops 1
in. above the surface. Tread the soil firmly against them. Cover with 1
in. of gravel to prevent them growing too luxuriantly. The end of June
is a good time for clipping. May be transplanted early in spring or late
in autumn. (See also “Buxus.”)

Brachycome (Swan River Daisy).—Beautiful little half-hardy
annuals bearing cineraria-like flowers that open well in the border in
summer. If well watered in autumn and removed to the greenhouse they
will continue to bloom during early winter. Sow the seed as for ordinary
half-hardy annuals in rich, light mould, covering them sparingly. Bloom
in May. Height, 6 in.

Bravoa Geminiflora (Twin Flower).—This hardy bulbous plant bears
lovely racemes of coral-coloured flowers in July. A rich loam suits it
best. Height, 1 ft.

Briza (Quaking Grass).—There are several varieties of this
ornamental hardy annual grass. Briza Gracillis is slender, and very
pretty both in a green and dried state. Briza Maxima bears large and
handsome panicles. Each variety should be sown in pots, or on a
sheltered bed out of doors, early in spring. Height, 1 ft.

Broccoli.—Requires a heavy, deep, rich soil, and liquid manure
during growth. For earliest crop sow thinly in beds early in March,
giving a little protection if necessary. Successional sowings should be
made to the end of June, to produce a constant supply till Cauliflowers
are ready. Transplant, when large enough to handle, about 2 ft. from
each other. Keep the ground free from weeds, and earth the plants up as
they advance in growth. Sow Purple Sprouting Broccoli in May for late
spring supplies.

Brodiaea Coccinea.—Handsome plants for rock-work or the border. On
a dry, light, sandy soil, with plenty of sunshine, their gorgeous spikes
of brilliant scarlet flowers are very attractive in May. The bulbs may
be planted in November, and left undisturbed.

Broom.—Hardy shrubs thriving in almost any soil. Cuttings will
strike if planted in sand under glass. (See also “Genista” and
“Spartium.”)

Broussonetia Papyrifera.—A very effective deciduous shrub, with
large, curiously-cut leaves. It likes an open soil, and is propagated by
cuttings. February is its blooming time. Height, 12 ft.

Browallia.—Very handsome half-hardy annuals; will grow readily
from seed in any garden soil, but prefer a sandy one. They bloom in
July. Height, 2 ft.

Brussels Sprouts.—For a first crop sow early in March, and in
April for succession. Transplant as soon as ready into deeply-trenched,
well-manured soil, about 2 ft. apart. Hoe well, and keep clear from
weeds. For exhibition and early use sow in a greenhouse, or in a frame
over a gentle hotbed, about the middle of February; prick off into a
cold frame, gradually harden off, and plant out in May.

Bryanthus Erectus.—A hardy evergreen shrub, which will grow in any
soil if the situation is shady and damp. It thrives without any
sunshine, but will not endure the constant dropping of moisture upon its
leaves from trees. Cuttings strike readily. April is its flowering time.
Height, 1 ft.

Budding.—Budding consists in raising an eye or bud from one part
of a bush or tree and transplanting it to another part, or to any other
plant of the same species. The process is not only more simple and rapid
than that of grafting, but many leading nurserymen contend that a better
union is effected, without the risk of dead wood being left at the
junction. It may be performed at any time from June to August, cloudy
days being most suitable, as the buds unite better in wet weather. It is
chiefly employed on young trees having a smooth and tender bark. Of the
various systems of budding, that known as the Shield is probably the
most successful. Make a small horizontal cut in the bark of the stock,
and also a vertical one about an inch long, thus forming an elongated T
shape. Next select a branch of the current year’s growth on which there
is a well-formed leaf-bud. Pass a sharp knife 1/2 in. above the bud and
the same distance below it, taking about a third of the wood with the
bud. If in the process of detaching it the interior of the bud is torn
away it is useless, and a fresh bud must be taken. Now hold the bud in
the mouth, and with as little delay as possible raise the bark of the
stock with a knife, insert the bud, and bind it on with raffia. When the
bud begins to grow the binding must be loosened. To prevent the shoots
being torn away by the wind a stake may be tied on to the stock, and the
new shoot secured to it by means of raffia. Fruit trees are sometimes
budded close to the soil on stocks 1-1/2 ft. in height. The buds are
rubbed off the stock as soon as they appear, but the stock is not cut
away until the following spring.

Buddlea.—Half-hardy, tall, deciduous greenhouse shrubs, delighting
in a loamy soil mixed with peat. They may be grown out of doors during
the summer, but need the protection of a house in winter.

Bugloss (Anchusa).—This showy plant, bearing large blue flowers
in June, may be increased by division of the roots into as many plants
as there are heads, from slips, or from seed sown in the open border in
spring. It is popularly known as Ox-Tongue.

Bulbocodium Trigynum (Colchicum Caucasium).—A miniature hardy
bulbous plant, which produces in February and March erect flowers about
the size of snowdrops. Set the bulbs in sandy loam or leaf-mould,
choosing a sunny situation. The bulbs may be divided every other year.
Height, 2 in.

Bulbocodium Vernum (Spring Saffron).—This bulb produces early in
spring, and preceding the foliage, a mass of rose-purple flowers close
to the ground. It is perfectly hardy, and valuable for edgings or
rock-work. Plant in autumn in light vegetable mould, and in a sheltered,
well-drained position. It will not grow in stiff, clay soil. The bulbs
may be divided every two years, after the tops have died down. This
dwarf plant flowers from January to March. Height, 6 in.

Buphthalmum Salicifolium (Deep Golden-yellow Marguerite).—Showy
and ornamental hardy perennials. They will grow in any good soil, and
flower from May to September; may be increased by suckers. Height, 1-1/2
ft.

Burning Bush.—See “Dictamnus” and “Fraxinella.”

Buxus (Tree Box).—A useful evergreen shrub which may be grown in
any soil or situation. The B. Japonica Aurea is one of the best golden
plants known for edgings to a walk. The closer it is clipped the
brighter it becomes. Increased by suckers or layers.

Letter “B”| Flowers Encyclopedia from: Florists: Attribution license: Flowers, Roses, and Flowers Online

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The blooms of broccoli and artichokes are eaten as everyday vegetables. The male blossoms of squash are served stuffed, battered and fried as well as made into squash blossom soup.

Bakers use rose petals and mint leaves as a cake garnish they brush petals and leaves with beaten egg white, dip in sugar and dry before assembling.

Refreshing tea can be brewed from the leaves and flowers of bee balm, cinnamon or lemon basil. Flowers steeped in vinegar lend their flavor as well as their color  use to top fresh or cooked greens.

Edible Flowers in Your Garden? from: Florists: Attribution license: Flowers, Roses, and Flowers Online

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