FLOWER GARDEN.

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 267, 10 November 1899, Page 6

FLOWER GARDEN.

The cold weather has been very severe on some of the early spring flowers especially such as are grown in exposed situations, and it is to be hoped that we will soon have warm humid weather, so that late summer plants-may get a good start. Continue planting all what is termed halfhardy annuals, and perennials, such as phloxdrummondia, petunias, zinnias, marigolds, sunflowers, and the sooner all such are, in the ground now the better they will succeed. The more tender annuals, such as cocks-combs and portulaea had better be kept in for another week or so. Hardy annuals and perennials which were planted out from time to time during the winter are nosy growing strongly. The tall-growing ones should be staked and'tied so as to prevent the wind from breaking them just as they are coming into flower. The soil ought also to be broken up around each plant. ~,..; . Gladiolus: Plant out the last batch of bulbs. Those which are now show- _.._•• flower spikes, stake and tie. Bedding plants of all description should now be put out. See that the colours of the foliage properly harmonise. After planting give the bed a good soaking of wat.r to settle the soil about the roots of the plants.

■ Roses ought soon to be at their best. See. that- each plant is well mulched with well-rotted manure, and if dry weather sets in give an occasional watering. Chrysanthemums and dahlias: Finish planting. Before they are, planted labour the soil two spits rieep and place plenty of manure where the roots can easily get at it, ami if dry weather sets in give plenty of wrater.

Climbers of all kinds: Tie and regulate shoots, as they advance in growth. Superfluous shoots cut out altogether.

Rhododendrons are now making a grand display. Give plenty of liquid manure. It will strengthen the colouring of the flowers. '. Camellias and azaleas are how growing strongly. See that the soil is forked around the plants, and mulch with well-rotted manure. It is useless to expect good flowers next year unless the plants are liberally treated while^hey are growing. Slugs are still very troublesome, and every endeavour ought, to be made to keep them off young and tender plants till the plants get established; The surface toil _o &U t>_e bed;) ._j>d

borders should he kept free and open, Where there, is a scarcity of water the beds should be mulched with short materials, so as to keep 'the suns rays from penetra/ting. Grass edgings should be, frequently cut, to keep them neat. Evergreen fences should be cut occasionally with the same object in view. Lawns: The grass is now growing strongly, and the mower must be frequently used to keep it short. The roller ought also to be used occasionally.