ROCK GARDENING

Evening Post, Volume CXV, Issue 109, 11 May 1933, Page 18

ROCK GARDENING

(By T. W. Attwood.)

In and around Wellington the recent heavy rains have completely suspended garden operations. While the ground remains sodden it is far better to keep off it and confine one's work to the cutting back and clearing away that may bo reached from the footpath. Where soil conditions will admit, transplanting and subdividing may be carried on. ' • j "Paroehetus communis."—The little blue-flowered shamrock, on which both leaves and flowers close up at sundown, is a native of the Himalayas, and was first introduced in 1820. With us it needs a semi-shaded situation and plenty of moisture. It is rather inclined to leave home. '' Sempervivums.''—Off-shoots from these may bo taken off and pricked out singly; there are many beautiful forms of these interesting plants, from the tiny grey web covered to the largest red-edged variety. These plants are not particular as to soil conditions, but they must have a place in the sun. If space is available, some, may be left to form clumps, aiid are effective massed in somo largo pockets. Shrubs. —The next two months are the best for the transplanting of shrubs. Make your selection early, choosing one or two dwarf blooming varieties for the | rock garden.