Gardening for the Million by Alfred Pink
A >>
Alfred Pink >> Gardening for the Million
Pages:
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
14 |
15 |
16 |
17 GARDENING FOR THE MILLION
_By_ ALFRED PINK
AUTHOR OF "RECIPES FOR THE MILLION."
T. FISHER UNWIN
PREFACE.
It is with the object of stimulating the cultivation of gardens still
more beautiful than those generally to be met with that the present
volume has been written. It has not been thought necessary to repeat
in each case the times when the seeds of the various flowers and
plants are to be sown. A careful attention to the remarks made
under the headings of "Annuals," "Biennials," "Perennials," and
"Seed-Sowing" will supply all the information needed. That the work
may prove useful to those at least who supervise their own gardens is
the sincere wish of the author.
DULWICH.
GARDENING FOR THE MILLION
A
Aaron's Rod.--_See_ "Solidago."
Abelia.--Very ornamental evergreen shrubs, bearing tubular,
funnel-shaped flowers. They succeed in any ordinary soil if the
situation is warm and sheltered, and are readily raised by cuttings.
Height, 3 ft. to 4 ft.
Abies _(Spruce Firs)_.--Among these ornamental conifers mention may be
made of the beautiful Japanese Spruce Ajanensis, which grows freely
in most soils and has dual-coloured leaves--dark green on the upper
surface and silvery white underneath; this makes a grand single
specimen anywhere. The White Spruce (_Abies Alba Glauca_) is a rapid
grower, but while it is small makes a lovely show in the border; it
prefers a moist situation. Of the slow-growing and dwarf varieties
Gregorii is a favourite. The Caerulea, or Blue Spruce, is also very
beautiful. Clanbrasiliana is a good lawn shrub, never exceeding 4 ft.
in height. The Pigmy Spruce (_A. Pygmea_) is the smallest of all firs,
only attaining the height of 1 ft. Any of these may be increased by
cuttings.
Abronia.--Handsome half-hardy annual trailers. Grow in sandy peat and
multiply by root division. Flowers in April. Height, 4 in. to 6 in.
Abutilon.--Evergreen greenhouse shrubs of great beauty and easy
cultivation. May be raised from seed, or by cuttings of young shoots
placed in spring or summer in sand under glass, or with a bottom heat.
Cut the old plants back in January, and when new shoots appear re-pot
the plants. Height, 5 ft. to 8 ft.
Acacia.--Winter and spring flowering greenhouse shrubs with charming
flowers and graceful foliage. May be grown from seed, which should be
soaked in warm water for twenty-four hours, or they may be propagated
by layers, cuttings placed in heat, or suckers. They like a rich sandy
loam soil. Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Acaena.--These shrubby plants are herbaceous and mostly hardy, of a
creeping nature, fast growers, and suitable for dry banks or rough
stony places. They flourish best in sandy loam and peat, and may be
increased by cuttings placed under glass. The flowers, which are
green, are produced in May. The height of the various kinds varies
from 3 in. to 2 ft.
Acantholimon Glumaceum _(Prickly Thrift)_.--This is a frame evergreen
perennial, thriving in any light, rich soil. It can be increased by
dividing the roots. In May it puts forth its rose-coloured flowers.
Height, 3 in.
Acanthus.--A coarse, yet stately hardy perennial, which has large
ornamental foliage, and flowers in August. It is not particular as to
soil or situation, but free space should be given it. Will grow from
seed sown from March to midsummer, or in August or September in a
sheltered situation. Will also bear dividing. Height, 3 ft.
Acer (_Maple_).--Very vigorous plants, suitable when young for pots,
and afterwards for the shrubbery. The A. Negundo Variegata has silvery
variegated leaves, which contrast effectively with dark foliage,
Campestre Colchicum Rubrum, with its bright crimson palmate leaves,
is very ornamental, as is also Negundo Californicum Aurem, with its
golden-yellow foliage. The Maple grows best in a sandy loam. It may be
increased by cuttings planted in a shaded situation, or by layers, but
the choice varieties are best raised from seed sown as soon as it is
ripe.
Achillea Ptarmica (_Sneezewort_).--A pure white hardy perennial which
blooms in August. The dried leaves, powdered, produce sneezing.
Any soil. Best increased by rooted off-sets. Flowers from July to
September. Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Achimenes.--Fine plants, suitable for the greenhouse, sitting-room, or
hanging baskets. Plant six tubers in a 5-in. pot, with their growing
ends inclining to the centre and the roots to the edge of the pot, and
cover them an inch deep with a compost of peat, loam, and leaf-mould,
or a light, sandy soil. Keep them well supplied with liquid manure
while in a growing state. Height, 6 in. to 2-1/2 ft.
Aconite (_Monk's-Hood or Wolf's-Bane_).--Very pretty and very hardy,
and succeeds under the shade of trees; but being very poisonous should
not be grown where there are children. Increased by division or
by seeds. Flowers June to July. Height, 4 ft. (_See also_ "Winter
Aconites.")
Acorus (_Sweet Flag)._--A hardy bog plant, having an abundance of
light-coloured evergreen foliage. It will grow in any wet soil.
Height, 2 ft.
Acroclinium.--Daisy-like everlastings. Half-hardy annuals suitable
for cutting during summer, and for winter bouquets. Sow in pots in
February or March, cover lightly with fine soil, plunge the pot in
gentle heat, place a square of glass on the top, and gradually harden
off. Seed may also be sown in the open during May or in autumn for
early flowering. Height, 1 ft.
Acrophyllum Verticillatum.--A greenhouse evergreen shrub. It will grow
in any soil, and may be increased by cuttings of half-ripened wood.
March is its flowering season. Height, 3 ft.
Acrotis.--These are mostly hardy herbaceous plants from South Africa.
The soil should consist of two parts loam and one part leaf-mould, and
the situation should be dry and sunny. Seed may be sown early in March
in gentle heat, and the plants grown on in a cold frame till May, when
they may be planted out a foot apart. They will flower at midsummer.
Winter in a warm greenhouse. Height, 2 ft. Some few are of a creeping
nature.
Actaea Spicata (_Bane Berry_).--A hardy herbaceous perennial which
delights in a shady position, and will even grow under trees. It is
increased by division of the roots, or it may readily be raised from
seed in ordinary soil. May is its flowering month. Height, 3 ft.
Actinella Grandiflora.--A showy herbaceous plant, bearing large
orange-coloured flowers in July. It is not particular as to soil, and
is increased by dividing the roots. Height, 1 ft.
Actinomeris Squarrosa.--This hardy and ornamental herbaceous plant
bears heads of bright yellow flowers, resembling small sunflowers,
from June to August. It thrives in any loamy soil, and is easily
increased by dividing the root. Height, 4 ft.
Adam's Needle.--_See_ "Yucca."
Adenandra Fragrans.--An evergreen shrub suitable for the greenhouse.
It thrives best in a mixture of sandy peat and turfy loam. Cuttings
of the young branches stuck in sand will strike. It flowers in June.
Height, 3 ft.
Adenophora Lilifolia.--Pretty hardy perennials suitable for the
border. Produce drooping pale blue flowers on branching spikes in
July. Any soil suits them. They may be grown from seed, but will not
allow being divided at the root. Height, 1 ft.
Adlumia Cirrhosa.--Interesting hardy climbers. Will grow in any soil,
and are readily increased by seeds sown in a damp situation. Require
the support of stakes. Bloom in August. Height, 15 ft.
Adonis Flos.--Showy crimson summer flowers, requiring only the
simplest treatment of hardy annuals. Sow in March or April in the open
border. Height, 1 ft.
Adonis Pyrenaica.--A rare but charming Pyrenean perennial species,
with thick ornamental foliage, and producing large golden-yellow
flowers from May to July. It needs no special treatment. Height, 1-1/2
ft.
Adonis Vernalis.--A favourite hardy perennial, which grows freely from
seed in any garden soil. It may also be increased by dividing the
roots. Height, 1 ft.
AEthionema Cordifolium.--This little Alpine plant is a hardy evergreen
that is very suitable for rock-work, as it will grow in any soil. Its
rose-hued flowers are produced in June. It may be propagated by seeds
or cuttings. Height, 3 in.
Agapanthus (_African Lily_).--This is a noble plant, which succeeds
well in the open if placed in a rich, deep, moist loam in a sunny
situation or in partial shade. In pots it requires a strong loamy soil
with plenty of manure. Throughout the summer the pots should stand
in pans of water. Re-pot in March. Give it plenty of pot room, say a
9-in. pot for each plant. In winter protect from severe frost, and
give but very little water. The flowers are both lovely and showy,
being produced during August in great bunches on stems 3 ft. high. The
plant is nearly hardy. Several growing together in a large tub produce
a fine effect. It is increased by dividing the root while in a dormant
state.
Ageratum.--Effective half-hardy annual bedding plants, thriving best
in a light, rich soil. Seed should be sown in heat in February or
March. Cuttings root freely under glass. Height, 1-1/2 ft. There is a
dwarf variety suitable for ribbon borders and edgings. Height, 6 in.
Agricultural Seeds.--Required per statute acre.
Carrot 5 to 6 lb. Cabbage (to transplant) 1" Cabbage (to drill) 2 to
3" Kohl Rabi (to drill) 2 to 3" Lucerne 16 to 20" Mangold Wurtzel 5
to 7" Mustard (Broadcast) 10 to 20" Rape or Cole 4 to 6" Rye Grass,
Italian 3 bus. Rye Grass, Perennial 2" Sainfoin 4" Tares, or Vetches
3" Turnip, Swedish 3 lb. Turnip, Common 2 to 3" Trifolium 16 to 20"
Agrostemma.--A hardy annual that is very pretty when in flower;
suitable for borders. Flourishes in any soil, and is easily raised
from seed sown in spring. Blooms in June and July. There are also
perennial varieties: these are increased by division of the root.
Height, 1 ft. to 3 ft.
Agrostis.--A very elegant and graceful species of Bent-Grass. It is a
hardy annual, and is largely used for bouquets. Sow the seed in March.
Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.
Ajuga Reptans.--A hardy herbaceous perennial, suitable for the front
of borders. It will grow in any soil, and may be propagated by seeds
or division. May is its flowering season. Height, 6 in.
Akebia Quinata.--This greenhouse evergreen twining plant delights in a
soil of loam and peat; flowers in March, and is increased by dividing
the roots. Height, 10 ft.
Alchemilla Alpina (_Lady's Mantle_).--A useful hardy perennial for
rock-work. It will grow in any soil, if not too wet, and may be
increased by seed sown in the spring or early autumn, or by dividing
the roots. It flowers in June. Height, 1 ft.
Allium Descendens.--A hardy, bulbous perennial. Plant in October or
November in any garden soil, and the flowers will be borne in July.
Height, 1 ft.
Allium Neapolitanum.--This is popularly known as the "Star." It bears
large heads of pure white flowers, and is suitable for borders, pots,
or forcing in a cool house. Any common soil suits it. It is increased
by off-sets. Being one of our earliest spring flowers, the bulbs
should be planted early in autumn. Height, 1 ft.
Allspice.--_See_ "Calycanthus" and "Chimonanthus."
Alonsoa.--A pretty and free-blooming half-hardy annual, which produces
fine spikes of orange-scarlet flowers in June. It is multiplied by
cuttings or seeds. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.
Aloysia Citriodora.--This favourite lemon-scented verbena should be
grown in rich mould. If grown in the open, it should be trained to a
wall facing south, and in winter the roots need protecting with a heap
of ashes and the branches to be tied up with matting. It is increased
by cuttings planted in sand. August is its flowering season. Height, 3
ft.
Alsine Rosani.--This pretty little herbaceous plant, with its cushions
of green growth, makes a very fine display on rock-work or in any
shady position. Ordinary soil suits; it is of easy culture, and
flowers during June and July. Height, 3 in.
Alstromeria (_Peruvian Lilies_).--These beautiful summer-flowering
hardy perennials produce large heads of lily-like blossoms in great
profusion, which are invaluable for cutting for vase decorations as
the bloom lasts a long time in water. Plant in autumn 6 in. deep in a
well-drained sunny situation, preferably on a south border. Protect
in winter with a covering of leaves or litter. They may be grown from
seed sown as soon as it is ripe in sandy loam. They bloom in July.
Height, 2 ft. to 3 ft.
Alternantheras.--Cuttings of this greenhouse herbaceous plant may be
struck in autumn, though they are usually taken from the old plants in
spring. Insert them singly in 4-1/2-in. pots filled with coarse sand,
loam, and leaf-mould. When rooted, place them near the glass, and keep
the temperature moist and at 60 degrees or 65 degrees, then they will
flower in July. Height, 4 in. to 1 ft.
Althea--_See_ "Hibiscus."
Alyssum.--Well adapted for rock-work or the front of flower-beds,
and is best sown in autumn. The annual, or Sweet Alyssum, bears an
abundance of scented white flowers in June, and on to the end of
September. The hardy perennial, Saxatile (commonly called Gold Dust),
bears yellow flowers in spring. Height, 6 in.
Amaranthus.--The foliage of these half-hardy annual plants are
extremely beautiful, some being carmine, others green and crimson,
some yellow, red, and green. They are very suitable either for bedding
or pot plants. Sow the seed early in spring in gentle heat, and plant
out in May or June in very rich soil. If put into pots, give plenty of
room for the roots and keep well supplied with water. Flower in July
and August. Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 6 ft.
Amaryllis.--These plants bear large drooping bell-shaped lily-like
blossoms. They thrive best in a compost of turfy loam and peat, with
a fair quantity of sand. The pots must in all cases be well drained.
Most of the stove and greenhouse species should be turned out of their
pots in autumn, and laid by in a dry place until spring, when they
should be re-potted and kept liberally supplied with water. A.
Reticulata and A. Striatifolia bloom best, however, when undisturbed.
Discontinue watering when the foliage shows signs of failing, but
avoid shrivelling the leaves. The hardy varieties should be planted
6 in. deep in light, well--drained soil, and allowed to remain
undisturbed for two or three years, when they will probably require
thinning out. They are increased by off-sets from the bulbs.
The Belladonna (_Belladonna Lily_) should be planted in June in a
sheltered border in rich, well-drained soil.
Formosissima (_the Scarlet Jacobean Lily_) is a gem for the
greenhouse, and very suitable for forcing, as it will bloom two or
three times in a season. It should be potted in February.
Lutea (_Sternbergia)_ flowers in autumn. Plant 4 in. deep from October
to December.
Purpurea (_Vallota Purpurea or Scarborough Lily_) is a very beautiful
free bloomer. October and November or March and April are the most
favourable times for potting, but established plants should be
re-potted in June or July.
Ambrosia Mexicana.--A hardy annual of the simplest culture. Sow the
seed in spring in any fine garden soil. Height, 1-1/2 ft.
American Plants.--These thrive most in a peat or bog soil, but where
this cannot be obtained a good fertile loam, with a dressing of fresh
cow manure once in two years, may be used; or leaf-mould and soil from
the surface of pasture land, in the proportions of three parts of the
former to one of the latter. The soil should be chopped up and used
in a rough condition. Sickly plants with yellowish foliage may be
restored by applying liquid manure once a week during the month of
July. A light top-dressing of cow manure applied annually, and keeping
the roots free from stagnant water, will preserve the plants in good
health.
Ammobium.--Pretty hardy perennials which may be very easily raised
from seed on a sandy soil. Flower in June. Height, 2 ft.
Ampelopsis.--Handsome and rapid climbers, with noble foliage, some
changing to a deep crimson in autumn. The Veitchii clings to the wall
without nailing, and produces a profusion of lovely leaves which
change colour. Any of the varieties may be grown in common garden
soil, and may be increased by layers.
Anagallis (_Pimpernel_.)--Very pretty. Sow the hardy annuals in the
open early in March; the biennials or half-hardy perennials in pots in
a greenhouse or a frame, and plant out when strong enough. May also be
increased by cuttings planted in ordinary soil under glass. Flower in
July. Height, 6 in.
Anchusa.--Anchusa Capensis is best raised in a frame and treated as
a greenhouse plant, though in reality it is a hardy perennial. The
annual and biennial kinds succeed well if sown in the open in rich
soil. All are ornamental and open their flowers in June. Height, 1-1/2
ft. (_See also_ "Bugloss.")
Andromeda.--An ornamental evergreen shrub, commonly known as the Marsh
Cystus, and thriving in a peat soil with partial shade. May be grown
from seed sown directly it is ripe and only lightly covered with
soil, as the seed rots if too much mould is placed over it. Place the
seedlings in a cold frame and let them have plenty of air. It is
more generally increased by layers in September, which must not be
disturbed for a year. Drought will kill it, so the roots must never be
allowed to get dry. It flowers in April and May. Height, 2 ft.
Androsace.--Pretty little plants, mostly hardy, but some require the
protection of a frame. They grow best in small pots in a mixture
of turfy loam and peat. Water them very cautiously. They flower at
different seasons, some blooming as early as April, while others do
not put forth flower till August. They can be increased by division as
well as by seed. Height, 6 in.
Anemones.--These are highly ornamental, producing a brilliant display
of flowers. The scarlets make very effective beds. They are mostly
hardy, and may be grown in any moist, light, rich garden soil,
preferably mixed with a good proportion of silver sand. They should
occupy a sunny and well-drained situation. For early spring flowering
plant from October to December, placing the tubers 2-1/2 or 3 in. deep
and 4 or 5 in. apart, with a trowelful of manure under each plant, but
not touching them. A little sea sand or salt mixed with the soil is a
preventive of mildew. If planted in February and March they will
bloom from April to June. They are increased by seeds, divisions, or
off-sets; the greenhouse varieties from cuttings in light loam under
glass. The tubers will not keep long out of the ground. In growing
from seed choose seeds from single-flowering plants; sow in March
where they are intended to flower 1 in. deep and 9 in. apart; cover
with leaf-mould. Two or three sowings may be made also during the
summer. Height, 6 in. to 2 ft.
Anemonopsis Macrophylla.--A rather scarce but remarkably handsome
perennial, producing lilac-purple flowers with yellow stamens in July
and August. It will grow in ordinary soil, and may be increased by
division. Height, 2 ft.
Angelonia Grandiflora Alba.--An elegant and graceful greenhouse plant,
giving forth a delicious aromatic odour. It grows best in a compost
of turfy loam and peat, but thrives in any light, rich soil. Take
cuttings during summer, place them under glass, but give a little air
occasionally. Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Annuals.--Plants of this description arrive at maturity, bloom,
produce seed, and die in one season.
_Hardy_.--The seed should be sown thinly in the open borders
during March, April, or May in fine soil, covering slightly with
well-prepared mould--very small seeds require merely a dusting over
them. When the plants are large enough to handle, thin them out
boldly, to allow them to develop their true character. By this means
strong and sturdy plants are produced and their flowering properties
are enhanced. Many of the hardy annuals may be sown in August and
September for spring flowering, and require little or no protection
from frost.
_Half-Hardy._--These are best sown in boxes 2 or 3 in. deep during
February and March, and placed on a slight hotbed, or in a greenhouse
at a temperature of about 60 degrees. The box should be nearly
filled with equal parts of good garden soil and coarse silver sand,
thoroughly mixed, and have holes at the bottom for drainage. Scatter
the seeds thinly and evenly over the soil and cover very lightly. Very
small seeds, such as lobelia and musk, should not be covered by earth,
but a sheet of glass over the box is beneficial, as it keeps the
moisture from evaporating too quickly. Should watering become
necessary, care must be taken that the seeds are not washed out. As
soon as the young plants appear, remove the glass and place them near
the light, where gentle ventilation can be given them to prevent long
and straggly growth. Harden off gradually, but do not plant out until
the weather is favourable. Seed may also be sown in a cold frame in
April, or in the open border during May; or the plants may be raised
in the windows of the sitting-room.
_Tender_.--These must be sown on a hotbed, or in rather stronger heat
than is necessary for half-hardy descriptions. As soon as they are
large enough to be shifted, prick them off into small pots, gradually
potting them on into larger sizes until the flowering size is reached.
Anomatheca Cruenta.--This produces an abundance of bright red flowers
with a dark blotch and a low growth of grass-like foliage. It is
suitable for either vases, edges, or groups. Plant the bulbs in autumn
in a mixture of loam and peat, and the plants will flower in July.
They require a slight protection from frost. If the seed is set as
soon as it is ripe it produces bulbs which will flower the following
year. Height, 6 in.
Antennaria.--Hardy perennial plants, requiring a rich, light soil.
They flower in June and July, and may be increased by cuttings or
division. The heights of the various kinds range from 3 in. to 2 ft.
Anthemis Tinctoria (_Yellow Marguerites_).--These perennials are
almost hardy, needing protection merely in severe weather. They are
readily raised from seed sown in gentle heat early in spring or by
slips during the summer months. Transplant into light soil. As pot
plants they are very effective. June is their flowering period.
Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Anthericum Liliago (_St. Bernard's Lily_).--One of the finest of hardy
plants, and easy to grow. Planted in deep, free, sandy soil, it will
grow vigorously, and in early summer throw up spikes of snowy-white,
lily-like blossoms from 2 to 3 feet in height. It may be divided every
three or four years, but should not be disturbed oftener. Mulching in
early springtime is advantageous.
Anthericum Liliastrum _(St. Bruno's Lily_).--This hardy perennial is a
profuse bloomer, throwing up spikes of starry white flowers from May
to July. Treat in the same manner as the foregoing. Height, 2 ft.
Anthoxanthum Gracila.--Sweet vernal grass. It is graceful and
ornamental, and is used for edgings. Sow in spring, keeping the seed
moist until it germinates. Height, 6 in.
Anthyllis Montana.--A fine hardy perennial for rock-work. It is of a
procumbent habit, and has a woody nature. A vegetable soil is best
suited for its growth, and its roots should be in contact with large
stones. It may be increased by cuttings taken in spring and planted in
the shade in leaf-mould. It flowers at midsummer. Height, 6 in.
Antirrhinum (_Snapdragon_).--Handsome hardy perennials; most effective
in beds or borders. They stand remarkably well both drought and
excessive rainfall, and succeed in any common soil. Seeds sown early
in spring produce flowers the same year. For spring bedding, sow in
July; keep the young plants in a cold frame, and plant out in March or
April. Choice sorts may be plentifully increased by cuttings taken in
July or August. Flower from July to September. Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 2
ft.
Ants in Gardens.--Contrary to general belief, ants do more good
than harm to a garden; but as they are unsightly on flowers, it is
advisable to tie a little wool round the stems of standard roses and
other things upon which they congregate. They will not crawl over the
wool. A little sulphur sprinkled over a plant will keep them from it;
while wall-fruit, etc., may be kept free from them by surrounding it
with a broad band of chalk. Should they become troublesome on account
of their numbers a strong decoction of elder leaves poured into the
nest will destroy them; or a more expeditious method of getting rid of
them is to put gunpowder in their nests and fire it with a piece of
touch-paper tied on to a long stick.
Aotus Gracillima.--A charming and graceful evergreen shrub, whose
slender branches are covered with small pea-like flowers in May. It is
most suitable for the greenhouse, and delights in a soil of loamy peat
and sand. Cuttings of half-ripened wood planted under glass will take
root. Height, 3 ft.
Aphides, or plant-lice, make their presence known by the plant
assuming an unhealthy appearance, the leaves curling up, etc.
Frequently swarms of ants (which feed upon the aphides) are found
beneath the plants attacked. Syringe the plant all over repeatedly
with gas-tar water, or with tobacco or lime-water. The lady-bird is
their natural enemy.
Pages:
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
14 |
15 |
16 |
17