FLOWER GARDEN.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXII, Issue 21, 25 January 1901, Page 3

FLOWER GARDEN.

There is still a good display of flowers In the beds and borders, consequent on the splendid season which we have had so far. At the present time the soil is beginning to get a little dry, but as this is being -written it is threatening to rain heavily. The soil in the beds and borders should be frequently broken up with the hoe so as to keep it free and open. At the time this is being- done the debris of all spent annuals should be cleared away. A general overhaul ought also to be given to the other plants, spent flowering stalks cut off and rank straggly shoots cut out. Climbers ought also to receive attention. Tie up such shoots as are to be retained, andc ut off superflui.. ous ones. Late flowering annuals, such as phlox drummondi, petunias, portulaca, cockscombs, amaranthus, etc., will require to be kept very moist if they are expected to do much good. While watering always give a heavy drenching, so that the water will penetrate to the roots. Where there is>«.a scarcity or water a good mulching of litter on the surface of the ground will do an immense lot of good. Dahlias are now growing strongly. Pinch out superfluous shoots- and tie up those to be retained so as to prevent them being broken with high winds. To keep those-plants in good condition plenty of liquid manure must be used. The same remarks will apply to chrysanthemums. Bedding plants of all descriptions will require attention. Frequent pinching back will be necessary so as to keep them within due bounds. They should also be kept pretty moist so they may grow strongly. Camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons, mulch with stable litter as this will help them in making strong flower buds. The" lawns are beginning to look a little yellow for the want of moisture. Still they must be regularly machined so as to keep weeds from getting too strong.