V | Flowers and Other Ornamental Plants
We cultivate in our gardens plants of all kinds, which give us great pleasure on account of their lovely blossoms or their agreeable odors. They are no longer luxuries, but have become necessities of life; and never have they become so extensively grown and widely appreciated as now. There are plants suited for sunny and shaded aspects and for various positions, from the mossy dell to high and dry situations in the country; from the area to the housetop in the town. Only knowledge is wanted for making the best selections for different purposes and sites, with information on culture for the uninitiated to achieve satisfactory results.
Plants and flowers grown in gardens are embraced in three groups: 1. Annuals, 2. Biennials, and 3. Perennials, the last-named being divided into two sections: (a) herbaceous, with soft or succulent stems that die in the winter; and (b) shrubby perennials with woody stems that survive the winter.
Annuals are those flowers which are born, grow, flower, ripen seeds, and die within a year. They never push growths a second season after flowering, because the roots die as well as the tops and branches. The common scarlet Poppy is a typical example.
Biennials are those plants which are raised from seeds in the spring or early summer and require the whole season to make their growth preparatory to flowering the next year, dying after ripening seeds.
Perennials differ from the above in living more than two years. All plants, such as hardy border flowers, that die down and spring up again from the root-stock year after year are perennials—herbaceous. Roses and other flowering shrubs are also perennials, but not herbaceous. Orchids. One of the best examples of herbaceous perennials is that of the Orchids, the most popular of which are the Odontoglossums and the Cattleyas.
Florist’s Flowers. This term has been applied to a number of plants which under cultivation and by selection or hybridization have produced from seed varieties of improved form, habit or color. The plants included under this title are constantly being added to, and great impetus given to the cultivation of hardy flowers and plants in recent years. The following are representative of this class:
Begonia. Named in honor of M. Begon, a French patron of botany. All the species of Begonia are interesting and beautiful winter ornaments of the hot-house or green-house, of the simplest culture in any rich soil if allowed an abundant supply of water. There are several tuberous-rooted species and varieties. They have large, showy flowers, and succeed well in a moist, shady border. The tubers should be kept warm and dry during the winter. They are readily propagated by cuttings, seeds, or division of tubers.
Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is an almost hardy herbaceous perennial plant, a native of southern Europe. The Greeks and Romans used it for making chaplets whence it was called “coronation.” It is a favorite exhibition flower, of many varieties, forms and colors; but the red, white, pink and yellow predominate. Carnations are among the plants which can be grown in the atmosphere of cities, but they are intolerant of shade. Propagation is usually effected by the process of layering, but cutting, seeds, and divisions are also employed.
Cattleya. What the rose and carnation are among garden plants, the Cattleya is among Orchids, preëminently beautiful. Not a species but possesses claims of the strongest nature on the culturist’s attention, either for its delicate loveliness or the rich and vivid coloring of its large and handsome flowers. They are natives of the temperate parts of South America, and in cultivation are found to succeed in a lower temperature than is necessary for the majority of plants of the same order. The plants grow vigorously, and consequently flower in perfection. The colors of the flowers run through all the shades of white, rose, rosy-lilac, crimson and carmine, nor is even yellow absent.
Dahlia. This, through constant improvement, has become one of the indispensable flowers. It derived its name from the Swedish botanist Dahl. Dahlias are known as show, fancy, pompon, single and cactus. They vary from the single type, not unlike a daisy, with broad rays, to the tiny, tightly-quilled, formal “pompon,” and to the “cactus-flowered,” resembling a chrysanthemum; and their lines are equally varied. Yellow, lilac, white and the deepest maroon, are found in innumerable combinations. It is necessary to lift the roots in late autumn, and, having ripened them in a shed, to store them for the winter in a cool, dry place, where the temperature will not fall below thirty-two degrees Fahrenheit. In the spring, the separate tubers may be planted in deep, rich soil; or the roots may be placed in February in a hot-bed, and when the young shoots which form are about three and a half inches long, they may be separated, together with a small piece of the tuber, and potted in small pots, which should be placed in the hot-bed until the young plants are ready to be hardened, preparatory to being planted outdoors.
Geranium. Our native species, called “crane’s bill,” from the beak-like appearance of the fruit, have palmately lobed or cleft leaves. The flowers have unusually bright-colored petals. The plants commonly cultivated in gardens and greenhouses under the name of Geraniums are species of Pelargonium. There are about one hundred and twenty-five species, mostly natives of the Cape of Good Hope, prized on account of the brilliant colors, of the flowers and the shape and markings of the leaves.
The most popular method of propagating is by cuttings, which can be rooted in pots or boxes of light soil placed in a greenhouse, or even a cottage window, at any time from spring to autumn, provided the soil is not kept very moist. Good loam is the best potting material, and beyond a little sand it needs no addition. Firm potting is a point to be well observed. Avoid coddling.
Gloxinia is the florists’ name for plants belonging to the genus Sinningia, tropical American plants. They have beautiful, many-colored, funnel-shaped flowers and velvety leaves. Seeds should be sown in February; and if the young plants are carefully potted, they flower the first year. They require the temperature of a warm greenhouse during the summer months; but as the leaves die away in autumn, the roots may be stored in a dry place, merely protected from cold. They like a sandy soil, containing abundance of leaf-mould and heat.
Lily (Lilium) in its many forms is one of the noblest and must beautiful of all bulbous plants. About forty-five species are natives of the north temperate zone, many of which are prized for the size and beauty of the flowers. The White Lily (L. candidum), a native of the Levant, with large white flowers, has long been in cultivation in gardens. The European Orange Lily (L. bulbiferum), with large, orange-colored flowers, is a well-known and very showy ornament in flower gardens. The Tiger Lily (L. tigrinum) has a stout stem two to five feet high with beautiful orange-colored flowers, spotted with purple. It is a native of China but has escaped from cultivation in many parts of the United States.
PROUD COLOR BEAUTIES OF THE LAND OF FLOWERS
1. ANTIRRHINUM. 2. THE ODONTOGLOSSUM. 3. POPPIES. 4. GLOXINIA. 5. CORNFLOWERS. 6. NASTURTIUMS. 7. THE CATTLEYA FOBIA. 8. FOXGLOVE.
Nasturtium, the generic name of a plant of the cruciferæ or mustard family, and the common name of the widely different genus tropæolum. The best known of these is Tropæolum tricolorum, one of the most generally cultivated annuals. It has tuberous roots, and such very weak and slender stems, that it is found necessary always to train them over a wire frame, as they are quite unable to support themselves. The stem climbs six or eight feet; the flowers vary from yellow to orange, scarlet and crimson. The unexpanded flower buds, and the young fruit while still tender, are pickled in vinegar. The dwarf varieties of this form bushy, rounded tufts about a foot high, and are used for bedding; some of them have flowers of exceedingly rich colors.
Odontoglossum. Unquestionably the most popular genus of Orchids. Very many of the species have been introduced into the green-house, and are greatly prized by cultivators for their magnificent flowers, which are remarkable both for their size and the beauty of their colors. Many of the species have pure white flowers, variously mottled; and some have a powerful odor of violets. With but few exceptions, they require to be grown in a moderately cool house. They are propagated by division, and grown like the other varieties of Orchids.
Tulip (Tulipa). A genus of upward of eighty species of hardy bulbous plants. Between forty and fifty species are known, mostly natives of the warmer parts of Asia. The most famous of all florists’ flowers is the garden tulip (T. gesneriana), which is from eighteen inches to two feet high, with a smooth stem, bearing one erect, large flower. The tulip is still most sedulously cultivated in Holland, especially at Haarlem, whence bulbs are largely exported; but attention is almost exclusively devoted to the cheaper varieties, which are used in hundreds of thousands for the purposes of decoration in gardens and rooms throughout winter and spring. Tulips are propagated by offset bulbs, and new varieties are raised from seed. Another species of tulip cultivated in gardens is the sweet-scented tulip, or Van Thol tulip (T. suaveolens), which has yellow or red flowers, inferior to those of the common garden tulip in beauty, but prized for their fragrance, and for appearing more early in the season.
Roses and Rose Culture
Roses are perhaps the most universally admired of all flowers, and few respond so well to the care of the cultivator. The earlier they are planted in the autumn (October 15th to November 15th) the better they will grow. Spring planting is fairly successful, provided the roots are kept moist when out of the ground. Time, April 15th to May 15th.
Roses enjoy deeply worked and fertile soil, and may be grown in specially prepared beds, or as borders. An open position, with a south or southeast exposure is preferable. Pruning should be done toward the end of March. When especially large blooms are desired, only one should be borne on each stem, the remainder of the buds being removed.
Desirable Varieties for the Rose Garden
Hybrid Perpetuals.—These produce handsome blooms in varied colors in the summer followed by a more or less bountiful supply in the autumn. Hardiest of the garden roses.
Varieties:
Frau Karl Druschki.—An ideal white rose.
Jacqueminot (Jack Rose).—Brilliant scarlet.
Paul Neyron.—Dark rose; largest of all.
Magna Charta.—Bright pink; a favorite.
George Arends.—Splendid soft pink.
Hybrid Teas.—These possess the freedom of growth of the foregoing with much of the delicacy of flowers for which Tea-scented Roses are admired. The most satisfactory for the general garden.
Varieties:
Robert Huey.—One of the largest bright reds.
The Lyon.—Deep coral pink verging on yellow.
White Killarney.—One of the best pure whites.
La France.—Clear, satiny pink.
Burbank.—Rich pink.
Richmond.—Brilliant crimson.
Tea and Noisettes.—Loveliness with profuseness are combined in this section. Much tenderer than the Hybrid Teas; sweet scented. The Noisette is an excellent climber for walls.
Varieties:
The Bride.—Pure white.
Perle des Jardins.—Beautiful rich yellow.
Papa Goutier.—Dark crimson.
William Allen Richardson.—Deep orange-yellow flowers.
Garland.—Semi-double, blush and white.
Longworth Rambler.—Splendid autumn climber; flowers, semi-double and crimson.
Hardy Climbers.—Popular and showy.
Varieties:
American Pillar.—Large, single, pink flowers.
Excelsa.—Finest of crimson ramblers.
Hiawatha.—Single, brilliant crimson.
Dorothy Perkins.—Soft shell-pink, fragrant.
Lady Gay.—Delicate cerise-pink which change to creamy white.
Wichmoss.—A “Moss” rose, light bluish-pink, fragrant.
Hybrid Briers.—Hardy semi-climbing roses.
Varieties:
Lord Penzance.—Beautiful contrasting shades.
Refulgence.—Dazzling scarlet, in clusters.
Juliet.—Rosy red with reverse petals of old gold.
The “Baby Ramblers.”—Dwarf, “perpetual bloomers.”
Varieties:
Phyllis.—Beautiful pink.
Jessie.—Bright cherry-red, white center.
Orleans.—Brilliant red, white center.
Snowball.—White, free flowering.
Japanese and Chinese.—
Varieties:
Blairii (China).—Vigorous climber for sunny walls; flowers, blush and rose.
Rugosa (Japanese).—No pruning is needed; flowers, white, rose and violet.
GUIDE FOR THE BEST ANNUAL FLOWERS
| Common and Botanical Name; Hints on Cultivation | Color, Height and Time in Bloom | Kind of Soil and Light Required |
|---|---|---|
| Blooming in May | ||
| Pansies (Viola tricolor), generally wintered in frames, but protected with leaves often survive the winter outdoors. | Various; 7 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, light; partial shade. |
| Trailing Catchfly (Silene pendula).—For succession from May 15th to July 15th sow outdoors September 1st, and again in early spring. | Pink, white; 12 inches; 4 weeks. | Light, rich loam; sun. |
| Cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus).—With moisture and frequent picking will bloom longer. | Blue; 24 inches; 10 weeks. | Light; sun. |
| Calliopsis (Coreopsis tinctoria).—Calliopsis elegans is one of the best browns among flowers. | Yellow and brown; 24 inches; 12 weeks. | Light; sun. |
| Blooming in June | ||
| Giant Spider Plant (Cleome spinosa).—Usually planted in the front of shrubbery. | Rosy purple; 36 inches; 4 weeks. | Light; sun. |
| Ageratum (Ageratum conyzoides).—Sow seed under glass in March. For edging. | Blue; 8 inches; 16 weeks. | Rich, light; sun or half shade. |
| Annual Phlox (Phlox Drummondi).—Remove fading flowers daily. | Various; 12 inches; 12 weeks. | Rich, moist; sun. |
| Monkey Flower (Mimulus luteus).—Spotted petals. Flowers somewhat resemble a snapdragon. | Various; 36 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, moist; shade. |
| Three-colored Gilia (Gilia tricolor).—A profuse bloomer. Sow seeds where plants are to grow by May 1st, and it will bloom in late June. | Various; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Shirley Poppy (Papaver Rhœas).—A form of the common corn poppy. Sow seeds in the poppy bed in early September or April. | Various; 24 inches; 2 weeks. | Good, moisture; sun. |
| Sweet Pea (Lathyrus odoratus).—Manure and moisture cause abundance of blossoms. Sow seed March 20th near New York. Cut flowers daily. | Various; 72 inches; 8 weeks. | Heavy, rich loam; sun. |
| Candytuft (Iberis umbellata).—Sow early where plants are to stand. | Various; 8 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Petunia (Petunia hybrida).—Grow somewhat apart from low plants because straggling. | White, pink; 12 inches; 16 weeks | Good; sun. |
| Western Wallflower (Erysimum asperum).—For May bloom sow in September, for June flowers sow in April. | Orange; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Dry; sun. |
| Antirrhinum or Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus).—Sow in hotbed in February for June bloom. | Various; 24 inches; 12 weeks. | Rich, moist sun. |
| Blooming in July | ||
| Lavatera (Lavatera tri).—Sow early May where plants are to grow. | Pink, white; 24 inches; 5 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Clarkia neriifolia (Clarkia elegans).—Clarkia pulchella is also useful for edging beds. | White, lilac, pink; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Light, rich; sun or half shade. |
| Large-flowered Godetia (Œnothera Whitneyi).—The large-flowered species. Some with spotted throats. | White, lilac, pink; 12 inches; 6 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Early Cosmos (Cosmos binnatus).—Very rich soil makes it bloom too late. | White, pink, crimson; 48 inches; 8 weeks. | Light; sun. |
| Sweet Alyssum (Alyssum maritimum).—Blooms till frost. Trim back moderately when flowers fade. | White; 8 inches; 14 weeks. | Light; sun. |
| Nicotiana affinis (Nicotiana alata).—Very fragrant at night. Plants usually started in cold frame. | White; 36 inches; 12 weeks. | Light; sun or part shade. |
| Sander’s Nicotiana (Nicotiana Sanderæ).—More satisfactory as a greenhouse plant, steadily improving. | Various; 36 inches; 12 weeks. | Light, rich; sun or part shade. |
| Arctotis grandis (Arctotis grandis).—Petals white above, lilac beneath. Blue-centered daisy. | White and lilac; 18 inches; 14 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Stock, Gilliflower (Matthiola incana, var. annua).—For July bloom sow February in greenhouse or hotbed. | Various; 18 inches; 12 weeks. | Deep, rich; sun. |
| Annual Larkspur (Delphinium Ajacis).—Sow seeds in September outdoors to have flowers July 1st. | Various; 18 inches; 8 weeks. | Good, light; sun. |
| Bedding Lobelia (Lobelia Erinus).—Blooms till frost in partial shade if watered. | Blue; 10 inches; 12 weeks. | Light, rich, moist; half shade. |
| Wishbone Flower (Torenia Fournieri).—Set five inches apart in two or three lines. | Blue; 8 inches; 12 weeks. | Light, rich, moist; half shade. |
| Phacelia congesta (Phacelia congesta)—An interesting little plant for border edge. | Blue; 12 inches; 6 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| African Marigold (Tagetes erecta).—Colors range from deep orange to sulphur yellow. | Yellow; 36 inches; 16 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| California Poppy (Eschscholzia Californica).—Sow early in border edge. Avoid transplanting. | Yellow; 15 inches; 16 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Giant Tulip (Hunnemannia fumariæfolia).—Bushy in habit. Sow seeds in May outdoors. | Yellow, red; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Annual Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella).—Best kinds belong to var. picta. Profuse bloomer.[151] | Crimson, red, yellow; 24 inches; 14 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Salvia or Scarlet Sage (Salvia splendens).—Don’t place near pink flowers. Start indoors in March. | Red; 36 inches; 14 weeks. | Good; sun or half shade. |
| Youth and Old Age (Zinnia elegans).—Rather stiff, but splendid for mass effects in garden. | Various; 36 inches; 14 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Rose Moss (Portulaca grandiflora).—Sow outdoors June 1st. It self-sows freely. | Various; 6 inches; 14 weeks. | Light, sun. |
| Balsam (Impatiens Balsamina).—Balsamina hortensis strain is best. Pinch plants once. | Various; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Light, rich, moist; sun. |
| Painted Tongue (Salpiglossis nuala).—Beautiful venation. Best started under glass. | Various; 18 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Verbena.—Sow indoors in February to get earliest bloom. | Various; 12 inches; 10 weeks. | Rich, light, moist; sun. |
| Blooming in August | ||
| Three-Colored Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum carinatum).—Sometimes called “painted daisy.” | Various; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Mourning Bride (Scabiosa atropurpurea).—Sown in April for early August bloom. | Various; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| China Asters (Callistephus Chinensis).—Dig in wood ashes around roots to prevent diseases. | Various; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Everlasting (Helichrysum bracteatum).—This shade is by far the most desirable. | Deep red; 36 inches; 8 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Didiscus (Trachymene cærulea).—Sow Didiscus cæruleus under glass in April. | Light blue; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Blooming in September | ||
| China Aster (Callistephus hortensis).—Dig in wood ashes to prevent aster disease. | Various; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus).—Dig around it and jolt it in midsummer. | Pink, white and red; 6 inches; 2 weeks. | Fairly good; sun. |
| Blooming in October | ||
| Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale).—They begin to bloom in September. | Purple, white, pink; 4 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Datsch’s Aster (Aster Datschi).—Latest aster of its color in trade. | White; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Good, deep; sun. |
| Himalayan Aster (Aster trinervis).—Latest aster of its color in trade. | Violet-purple; 30 inches; 3 weeks. | Good, deep; sun. |
| Tea Rose (Rosa Chinensis).—Last bloom of the monthly or tea rose. | Various; 24 inches; 2 weeks. | Rich, deep; sun. |
| Perennial Larkspur (Delphinium sp.).—Cut back larkspur after annual bloom. | Blue; 24 inches; 2 weeks. | Deep, rich; sun. |
| Everbloom Torch Lily (Kniphofia Pfitzerii).—Store roots of Tritoma Pfitzerii in cellar over winter. | Orange-scarlet; 36 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, deep; sun. |
| Blooming in November | ||
| Pompon Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum Indicum).—Buttons one-half inch across or flowers one inch across. | Various; 36 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, loam; sun. |
GUIDE FOR THE BEST PERENNIAL FLOWERS
| Common and Botanical Name; Hints on Cultivation | Color, Height and Time in Bloom | Kind of Soil and Light Required |
|---|---|---|
| Blooming in March | ||
| Anemone or Hepatica (Hepatica triloba).—For wild garden or rock garden. Evergreen. | Blue, lilac, pink, white; 5 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich, drained loam; shade. |
| Blooming in April | ||
| Bluebell (Mertensia Virginica).—Leave undisturbed for years. Foliage dies in summer. | Blue; 16 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich loam; sun. |
| Shooting Star (Dodecatheon Meadia).—Its English name is very descriptive. | Pink; 8 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; partial shade. |
| Wild Sweet William (Phlox divaricata).—The tallest of the early phloxes. | Blue; 16 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich; sun or shade. |
| Sweet Violet (Viola adorata).—Blooms again in autumn. | Blue; 8 inches; 6 weeks. | Heavy rich; sun or shade. |
| Rock Cress (Arabis albida).—For edgings, carpeting bare spots, covering banks, etc. | White; 4 inches; 3 weeks. | Any; sun. |
| Large-Leaved Saxifrage (Saxifraga sp.).—The different species known to the trade as Saxifraga Megasea generally appear in early April. | White, blue, pink; 12 inches; 2 weeks. | Any; partial shade. |
| Moss Pink (Phlox subulata).—Spreads rapidly. Moss-like foliage. Carpets ground.[152] | Pink; 6 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; full sun. |
| English Primrose (Primula vulgaris).—Some moisture is necessary to produce fine blossoms. | Yellow; 9 inches; 3 weeks. | Light rich; full sun. |
| Leopard’s Bane (Doronicum plantagineum, var. excelsum).—Showiest early flower of the daisy family. Flowers sometimes four inches across. Give scattering bloom all season. | Yellow; 10 inches; 4 weeks. | Any; sun or semi-shade. |
| Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe involucrata).—Hardy. May bloom again in late summer. | Red, purple; 9 inches; 8 weeks. | Good sun. |
| Blooming in May | ||
| Spiderwort (Tradescantia Virginiana).—For mixed borders, wild garden or front of shrubbery. | Violet, blue; 24 inches; 12 weeks. | Good; sun or half shade. |
| Many-Leaved Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus).—Easily raised from seed. Soil must not dry quickly. | Blue, white; 36 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, heavy; sun or shade. |
| Common Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris).—Also grow A. chrysantha (yellow), and A. Canadensis (red). | Violet, white; 36 inches; 5 weeks. | Rich; sun or shade. |
| German Iris (Iris Germanica).—Plant rhizomes flat, cover half their depth. Best transplanted after bloom. Keep from contact with manure. | Various; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Scotch Pink (Dianthus plumarius).—Evergreen. Don’t cover with litter in winter. | White, pink; 10 inches; 2 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Garden Heliotrope (Valeriana officinalis).—Sweet spicy fragrance; rapid spreader; an old favorite. | White; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; sun or half shade. |
| Yellow Larkspur (Delphinium nudicaule).—Grows wild near streams in northern California, a pretty, early variety for the garden. | Yellow; 12 inches; 10 weeks. | Deep, rich, sandy loam; sun. |
| Brown and Yellow Corn Flower (Lepachys columnaris, var. pulcherrima).—Grown as an annual for bedding. Start indoors in March; it will bloom June to September. | Brown and yellow; 24 inches; 12 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Lily-of-the-Valley (Convallaria majalis).—Divide every four or five years if crowded. Plant six or seven pips in a bunch. | White; 8 inches; 3 weeks. | Good, heavy; partial shade. |
| Bachelor’s Button (Ranunculus acris, var. flore pleno).—Easiest to raise of the yellow buttons. | Yellow; 18 inches; 5 weeks. | Good, moist; partial shade. |
| Cowslip (Primula officinalis).—Small flowers well above leaves. Water during drought. | Yellow; 8 inches; 3 weeks. | Moist, deep, light; part shade. |
| Lemon Lily (Hemerocallis flava).—This sweet scented flower is the best Hemerocallis. | Yellow; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; sun or partial shade. |
| Early Peony (Pæonia officinalis).—This European species is the parent of the early peonies; blooms fortnight before the Chinese peonies. | Red, white; 6 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, heavy; sun. |
| Carolina Phlox (Phlox ovata).—A rich color for the front of a bed. | Rosy red; 8 inches; 4 weeks. | Good, light; sun. |
| Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis).—Commonly planted in fall. Sold by bulb dealers also. | Rosy red; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Pyrethrum (Chrysanthemum coccineum).—Pyrethrum roseum dies from too much moisture in clay soil. Wilts if too dry. | Pink, white; 24 inches; 5 weeks. | Rich, deep, light; sun. |
| English Daisy (Bellis perennis).—Best to winter in cold frames. Water freely while growing. | Pink, white; 6 inches; 8 weeks. | Rich, rather heavy; sun. |
| Siberian Primrose (Primula cortusoides).—One of the latest primroses. Flowers one inch across. | Pink; 12 inches; 5 weeks. | Dry, rich; sun. |
| Blooming in June | ||
| Perennial Larkspur (Delphinium formosum).—D. Zalil is yellow, two feet. D. elatum is blue, six feet. D. Chinensis is a dwarf kind, two feet. | Blue; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, well-drained, heavy; sun. |
| Canterbury Bells (Campanula Medium).—Biennial, needs winter protection. Var. calycanthema best. | Blue, white, pink; 24 inches; 5 weeks. | Rich, not too light; sun. |
| Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea).—Short-lived perennial but self-sows. Highest type is var. gloxiniæflora, best sown in August; wintered in cold frames. | Purple; 36 inches; 5 weeks. | Light, good, moist; sun; shade. |
| Beard-Tongue (Pentstemon diffusus).—Tall slender spikes of light purplish blue flower. | Blue; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Good soil; partial shade. |
| Japanese Iris (Iris lævigata).—Largest flowered iris. Needs more moisture. | Various; 48 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, moist; sun. |
| Siberian Columbine (Aquilegia Sibirica).—Give columbine seeds light soil; plants rather heavy soil. | Light blue; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, dry; sun or half shade. |
| False Indigo (Baptisia australis).—Resembles the lupine. | Blue; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Douglas’ Clematis (Clematis Douglasi).—Bell-shaped flowers darker within than without. | Blue; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich, light loam; sun. |
| Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium cæruleum).—Likes moisture. An old-time flower.[153] | Blue, white; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, deep loam; sun. |
| Amsonia (Amsonia Tabernæmontana).—Subshrub with willow-like leaves. Grows well in shrubbery. | Blue; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Goat’s Beard (Aruncus astilboides).—Feathery-spiked flowers. Fine cut foliage. | White; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Pearl Achillea (Achillea Ptarmica, var. Pearl).—Fence in roots with a square of boards. | White; 24 inches; 12 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Phlox Miss Lingard (Phlox maculata, var. Miss Lingard).—Healthiest and best variety of common early perennial garden phlox. | White; 18 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Gas Plant (Dictamnus Fraxinella).—Will also grow in partial shade. Very long-lived. | White, pink; 24 inches. | Rich, heavy; sun. |
| Hardy Yucca (Yucca flaccida).—“Yucca filamentosa” of nurserymen, not of botanists. Transplant only in early spring. Makes new plants every year by suckers. | White; 60 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, light loam; sun. |
| Golden Marguerite (Anthemis tinctoria).—Divide every year. Var. Kelwayi best. | Yellow; 12 inches; 10 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Perennial Coreopsis (Coreopsis lanceolata).—Don’t let it go to seed. | Yellow; 18 inches; 10 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Woolly Yarrow (Achillea tomentosa).—Carpets the ground in early June. | Yellow; 8 inches; 4 weeks. | Dry, rich; sun. |
| Perennial Gaillardia (Gaillardia aristata).—The yellow with maroon disk is perhaps the best. Blooms steadily till frost if fading flowers are cut. | Yellow; 12 inches; 16 weeks. | Good, light; sun. |
| Thin-Leaved Coneflower (Rudbeckia triloba).—Biennial, but blooms first year and self-sows. | Yellow; 36 inches; 5 weeks. | Rich, moist; sun. |
| Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria).—Baptisia australis, blue, is showier. | Yellow; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| German Catchfly (Lychnis Viscaria).—Beautiful, old-fashioned, long-lived in congenial situation. | Deep red; 9 inches; 3 weeks. | Good, light; sun. |
| Late or Chinese Peony (Pæonia Chinensis).—Flowers best in rather heavy soil, with moisture in spring and summer. Single varieties are exquisite. | Crimson, white, pink; 30 inches; 3 weeks. | Very rich, deep; sun. |
| Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale).—The variety bracteatum—deep red—is the best. | Red; 36 inches; 2 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus).—Biennial but self-sows. | Various; 12 inches; 5 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Japanese Pinks (Dianthus Chinensis, var. Heddewigi).—Best treated as annual. Start indoors. | Various; 9 inches; 12 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Coral Bells (Heuchera sanguinea).—Graceful racemes of delicate flowers. Blooms all summer. | Crimson; 18 inches; 12 weeks. | Good; sun or half-shade. |
| Fire Pink (Silene Virginica).—It cannot stand much moisture. | Crimson; 18 inches; 8 weeks. | Good; sun or half shade. |
| Blooming in July | ||
| Fremont’s Clematis (Clematis Fremonti).—A western bush clematis for the hardy border. | Bluish purple; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Deep, rich; sun. |
| Beard-Tongue (Pentstemon ovatus).—Short-lived but very free blooming while it lasts. | Blue; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Moist; sun. |
| True Monkshood (Aconitum Napellus).—This plant lives longer in partial shade. | Blue; 48 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich; partial shade. |
| Japanese Bellflower (Platycodon grandiflorum).—Largest easily grown flower of the bellflower family. | Blue, white; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Light loam; sun. |
| Double Feverfew (Chrysanthemum Parthenium).—Gives many white buttons. | White; 18 inches; 12 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| False Chamomile (Boltonia asteroides).—Like a wild aster. Very profuse of bloom. | White, violet; 60 inches; 4 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Bugbane (Cimicifuga racemosa).—For shrubbery back of border, or wild garden. | White; 60 inches; 4 weeks. | Good; partial shade. |
| Meadow Rue (Thalictrum polygamum).—For wild garden or shrubbery. Fern-like foliage. | White; 60 inches; 4 weeks. | Moist; sun. |
| Perennial Phlox (Phlox paniculata).—See also Phlox maculata in June. | White, pink, red, blue; 36 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, moist; sun. |
| Hollyhock (Althæa rosea).—Dig dry Bordeaux about crowns in spring; spray under side of leaves weekly with ammoniacal copper carbonate. | White, pink, red; 72 inches; 4 weeks. | Deep, rich, heavy; sun. |
| Double Perennial Sunflower (Helianthus decapetalus, var. multiflorus).—Divide every two years. Flowers deteriorate. | Yellow; 60 inches; 6 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Shining-Leaved Coneflower (Rudbeckia nitida).—Plenty of moisture suits it best. | Yellow; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Golden Glow (Rudbeckia laciniata, fl. pf.).—Wonderfully prolific. Divide annually. Getting common. | Yellow; 72 inches; 3 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Pitcher’s Sunflower (Heliopsis lævis).—Earlier than sunflowers, smaller. Var. Pitcheriana best. | Yellow; 6 weeks. | Good, dry; sun. |
| Gay Feather (Liatris pycnostachya).—Very striking. Plant in groups of five or more.[154] | Pink; 48 inches; 3 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea).—Rather coarse but effective flowers. Sometimes four feet high. | Pinkish; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Good: deep: sun. |
| Bee Balm (Monarda didyma).—Rapid spreading. Place next to white phlox. | Red; 36 inches; 8 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Blooming in August | ||
| Long-Leaved Veronica (Veronica longifolia).—The best is var. subsesilis. | Blue; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Deep, rich; sun. |
| Stoke’s Aster (Stokesia cyanea).—Hardy near Boston. An unusually fine shade of blue. | Blue; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Well drained, light, rich; sun. |
| Mist Flower (Conoclinium cœlestinum).—Easily grown. Light blue color. | Blue; 18 inches; 4 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Joe-Pye Weed (Eupatorium purpureum).—For back of broad border, or shrubbery. | Purple; 96 inches; 4 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Arkansas Ironweed (Vernonia Arkansana).—Flowers by August 1st. For shrubbery or wild garden. | Purple; 96 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, deep; sun. |
| New York Ironweed (Vernonia Noveboracensis).—Bushy. May be placed near V. Arkansana. | Purple; 60 inches; 6 weeks. | Rich, deep; sun. |
| Lyon’s Turtlehead (Chelone Lyonii).—Resembles pentstemons. Don’t allow to suffer from drought. | Purplish; 24 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich; partial shade. |
| Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila paniculata).—Beautiful misty white flower. Effective in bouquets. | White; 24 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Marshmallow (Hibiscus Moscheutos).—They have deep crimson or purple eyes. | Rose, white; 60 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich; sun. |
| Showy Coneflower (Rudbeckia speciosa).—Moisture will increase the size of the flower. | Yellow; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Good; sun or half shade. |
| Showy Sunflower (Helianthus lætiflorus).—Spread too rapidly for a crowded border. | Yellow; 72 inches; 6 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Long-headed Coneflower (Lepachys columnaris).—Resembles black-eyed Susan. | Yellow; 24 inches; 6 weeks. | Good; sun. |
| Canadian Goldenrods (Solidago Canadensis).—Goldenrods all welcome in the wild garden. | Yellow; 48 inches; 5 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Yarrow, Milfoil (Achillea Millefolium).—Pink kind is var. roseum. Sink boards around it. | Pinkish; 24 inches; 8 weeks. | Any good dry; sun. |
| Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa).—Has big woody root. Transplant young seedlings. | Orange; 24 inches; 5 weeks. | Good, dry; sun. |
| Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis).—Does well in garden soil. Water freely. | Red; 36 inches; 5 weeks. | Deep, moist; partial shade. |
| Showy Stonecrop (Sedum spectabile).—Give good drainage. Best of the tall stonecrops. | Pink; 18 inches; 6 weeks. | Good, rich; sun. |
| False Chamomile (Boltonia latisquama).—Satisfactory for back of border. Spreads considerably. | Pinkish; 60 inches; 5 weeks. | Rich, deep; sun. |
| Blooming in September | ||
| Fischer’s Aconite (Aconitum Fischeri).—Early frost does not harm this beautiful flower. | Blue; 60 inches; 4 weeks. | Rich, deep, partial shade. |
| Blazing Star (Liatris graminifolia).—A singular and strikingly beautiful flower. | Rosy, purple; 36 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich, good; sun. |
| Tartarian Aster (Aster Tataricus).—Tallest of all asters. Many other good blue kinds. | Blue; 72 inches; 3 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| New England Aster (Aster Novæ Angliæ).—The rose variety is better. | Purple; 48 inches; 3 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Giant Daisy (Chrysanthemum uliginosum).—Spreads rapidly. For back of borders. Rather heavy soil. | White; 60 inches; 3 weeks. | Rich, moist; sun. |
| Graceful Sunflower (Helianthus orgyalis).—One of the best hardy sunflowers. Blooms late. | Yellow; 96 inches; 4 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Maximilian’s Sunflower (Helianthus Maximiliana).—Another graceful sunflower. | Yellow; 72 inches; 5 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
| Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale).—Begins to bloom in August, sometimes in July. | Yellow; 60 inches; 8 weeks. | Any good; sun. |
DESIRABLE ANNUAL VINES
| Common and Botanical Name; Hints on Cultivation | Color, Height and Time in Bloom | Kind of Soil and Light Required |
|---|---|---|
| Hyacinth Bean (Dolichos Lablab).—Sensitive to frost. Makes good screen. Plant one foot apart. | Purple; 15 feet; 4 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Cup and Saucer Vine (Cobæa scandens).—Rapid climber. Set plants six inches apart. | Purplish, white; 15 feet; 6 weeks. | Rich, light; sun. |
| Allegheny Vine (Adlumia cirrhosa).—For covering bushes. Set eight inches apart. | Pinkish; 10 feet; 3 weeks. | Moist, rich; shade. |
| Ivy-Leaved Gourd (Coccinea cordifolia).—Coccinea Indica is grown for its scarlet fruit.[155] | White; 10 feet; 4 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Canary-Bird Vine (Tropæolum Canariense).—Not showy, but quick growing. Set eight inches apart. | Canary yellow; 15 feet; 3 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Balloon Vine (Cardiospermum Halicabum).—Seed vessels like balloons. Set plants ten inches apart. | White; 10 feet; 3 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Balsam Pear (Momordica Charantia).—Plant seeds outdoors after last frost, else under glass earlier. | Yellow; 10 feet; 3 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Climbing Nasturtium (Tropæolum majus).—For close screen plant ten inches apart. | Yellow or red; 10 feet; 8 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Cypress Vine (Ipomœa Quamoclit).—Star-shaped flowers. Finely cut leaves. | Scarlet; 15 feet; 3 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Scarlet Runner Bean (Phaseolus multiflorus).—Tender perennial with tuberous roots. | Red, white; 18 feet; 4 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
| Maurandia (Maurandia Barclaina).—Showy leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers. | White, blue; 10 feet; 2 weeks. | Light, rich; sun. |
FLOWERING SHRUBS AND HEDGE PLANTS
| Names and Descriptions | Height in Feet | Flowering Time | Cultivation and Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spirea (Spiraea Van Houtter).—The most showy of the spireas; flowers in umbels two inches across. Handsome foliage all summer. | 6 | June | Plant in a conspicuous place with ample room. Cut out flowering wood in summer. Thrives anywhere. |
| Spirea (Spiraea, Anthony Waterer).—The only shrub of its season. Flowers crimson red produced successively for six weeks. Good for edging. | 3 | July | Prune off old flower heads as soon as withered to induce good second crop. |
| Mock Orange (Philadelphus coronarius).—Most fragrant white large flowered shrub. Valuable for tall screen. Flowers one and one-half inches across. | 12 | June | Old wood should be cut out from time to time, otherwise the tree gets very ragged. |
| Althea or Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus Syriacus).—The only tall shrub of late summer. Very hardy; leafs late. White or rose flowers. | 12 | August | Good for hedges and screens. Must be planted very early in the autumn. |
| Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata, var. grandiflora).—Most showy of all summer shrubs. White flowers, shading into pink and persisting all winter. | 6 to 15 | July-August | Prune very completely in winter for quantity of flowers next year. |
| Golden Bell (Forsythia suspensa).—The most showy, early-flowering shrub. Yellow flowers before the leaves. Branches arch over and root at tips. | 5 to 8 | April-May | Plant against a dark background, such as evergreens, or a hillside to set off flowers. |
| Japan Quince (Cydonia Japonica)_.—Earliest bright scarlet flowered shrub. Useful also as a hedge. Plant as specimen. Slow growing. | 4 to 8 | May | Very subject to San Jose scale. Don’t plant near orchards unless systematically sprayed. Stands close pruning. |
| Lilac (Syringa vulgaris).—Very fragrant lilac, white or purple flowers. Grows anywhere, even in partial shade. | 8 to 15 | May-June | Spray with potassium sulphide for mildew in August, September. Do not permit suckers to develop. Prune for form only. |
| Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum).—Largest showy white balls of bloom, better habit than the common snowball and not so subject to plant louse. | 6 to 8 | May-June | Prune as little as possible. Should be planted on lawn as a specimen, or trained on wall of house. |
| Tartarian Honeysuckle (Lonicera Tatarica).—Most fragrant of all the early summer shrubs, especially at dusk. Flowers pink; several varieties red or white. | 8 to 10 | May-June | Plant in shrubbery where its presence is made known by the odor. Valuable as a low screen on seaside. |
| Weigela (Diervilla florida).—Showiest shrub of midsummer. Flowers pink, white, red. Best flowering shrub under big trees. | 6 to 8 | June | Can be planted where other shrubs fail. Free from insects and disease. Cut out old wood to the ground. |
| Wistaria or Wisteria (W. Frutescens).—Handsome hardy, slow-growing, climbing shrub. Flowers in elegant lilac-colored racemes, slightly scented. | 8 to 15 | All Summer | Adapted for screen or trellis. |
| California Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium).—Fastest growing. Stands salt spray. Good soil binder. Stands severest pruning and can be trained high or low. | 6 to 8 | ... | Set six inches deeper than in the nursery and cut back to six inches or less. |
| Regel’s Privet (Ligustrum Ibota, var. Regelianum).—Low growing, denser habit with spreading, drooping branches clothed with white tassels.[156] | 2 to 6 | June | Useful as a border hedge to plantations and along roadways. Should not be planted as a protection. |
| Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera).—Grows in any soil. Makes a dense defensive hedge as far north as Massachusetts. Flowers white. | 3 to 15 | May | Unless regularly trimmed, the top branches will spread. Will exhaust soil on each side for some feet. |
| Japanese Barberry (Berberis Thunbergii).—Foliage down to the ground. Dense compact growth of small spiny branches making effective hedge in winter. | 4 | June | Does not need pruning. Red berries all winter, and foliage red until Christmas. Do not plant in wheat districts. |
| Honey Locust (Gleditschia triacanthos).—The thorniest of all. “Bull strong, horse high and pig tight.” Perfectly hardy. Fast and vigorous grower. Suckers. | 3 to 15 | May | Plant thickly and prune severely. Mice girdle in winter. Spring trimmings must be burned. Needs strict control. |
| Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica).—The best strong hedge, as dense and tight as honey locust but not so high. Thorny. Never ragged. Moderate grower. | 6 to 10 | ... | Spray with kerosene emulsion for hop louse. Old hedges that are out of condition are easily recovered by cutting back. |
| Trifoliate Orange (Citrus trifoliatus).—Best medium height hedge for the South where it is evergreen. Deciduous in the North. Foliage yellow in fall. | ... | ... | Not reliably hardy north of Philadelphia. White flowers followed by small yellow fruits make it ornamental also. |
| Tamarix (Tamarix Gallica).—Unexcelled for saline and alkaline soils, growing on the salt water’s edge where nothing else will. | 5 to 10 | ... | Flowers feathery pink on old wood; on new wood in var. Narbonnensis. Foliage small. |
| Japanese Briar (Rosa rugosa).—The only rose suitable for a hedge. White, pink and red flowers. | 5 to 8 | All Summer | Suited for boundary or screen. |
BEST LAWN GRASSES FOR ALL PURPOSES
| Common and Botanical Name | Region of Use | Lbs. per bushel cleaned seed | Sow per acre bushels alone | Conditions and Uses | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Bent (Agrostis canina). | On sandy seasides. | 15 | 13 | For close, fine turf. Color very green. | |
| Creeping Bent (Agrostis alba, var. stolonifera). | Low lying inland and dry valleys of the East. | 15 | 3 | Rapid growing, forms a strong turf, that is improved by heavy rolling or tramping. | |
| Red Top, Fancy Red Top (Agrostis alba, var. vulgaris). | From Tennessee north. | 14 35 | 4 5-6 | Stands hot weather and hard usage. Fills in well with blue grass. | |
| Beach (Ammophila arenaria, A. arundinacea). | On railway cuttings and embankments on the sea coast. | 15 | 3 | 1⁄2 | Dry, loose soils. Holds drifting sands and banks. |
| Biennial Sweet Vernal (Anthoxanthum odoratum). | Useful only to lend fragrance to the lawn when cut. | Used only in mixture two pounds to the acre. | Starts early in spring, and makes new root-leaves all the year after cutting. | ||
| Bermuda (Capriola Dactylon). | Is killed by frost; valueless north of Virginia. A weed in blue grass lawns where it dies early. | 15 | 1⁄2 | Can be used for binding banks. The best lawn grass for the South from Virginia to Florida. Withstands heat and drought. Thrives on poorest soils. | |
| Crested Dog’s Tail (Cynosurus cristatus). | Valuable for shady places and under trees. Also for terraces on deep soil. | 30 | 1 | Same color as Kentucky blue and so mixes well with that. A good bottom grass. Not recommended alone. Prefers rich, moist soil. | |
| Various Leaved Fescue (Festuca heterophylla). | Northern States and on cold, wet soils. | 15 | 1 | 1⁄2 | Does best in cold, moist soils, rich in humus and potash. |
| Sheep’s Fescue (Festuca ovina). | Useful in mixtures for the Northwest and for lands on poorest sands. | 16 | 2 | This is a “bunch” or “stool” grass with very fine foliage and dense dwarf growth for any uplands. | |
| Slender Fescue (Festuca ovina var. tenuifolia). | Dry slopes on lawns or on dry, high situations. | 22 | 1 | 1⁄2 | Finer leaf than sheep’s fescue and stools like that. Recommended only in special situations. |
| Italian Rye (Lolium Italicum). | Very thickly or in mixture as far south as Jacksonville, Fla. | 22 | 2 | 1⁄2 | Very rapid growing and valuable for short, quick effects. Is practically an annual. |
| Pacey’s or English Rye (Lolium perenne var. tenue).[157] | For quick effects in the Middle and Eastern States. | 28 | 2 | Makes good verdure in four weeks. Dies out in two or three years. | |
| Canada Blue (Poa compressa). | Throughout the East and North including Canada on dry sand or clay. | 14 | 3 | Flatter, more wiry stem than the Kentucky grass, also bluer color. Used in the very cheap mixtures as a substitute. | |
| Wood Meadow (Poa memoralis). | Best grass for very shady places in woodland parks. | 19 | 1 | 1⁄2 | Very hardy and early, resisting heat, too. |
| Kentucky Blue (Poa pratensis). | Best lawn grass north of Washington and west to the Allegheny range. | 14 | 3 | Starts early, lasts till frost, fine texture, rich green color, smooth, even growth. Three years to establish. Dislikes some soils. | |
| Rough Stalked Meadow (Poa trivialis). | More shaded portions of lawns or north side of buildings. | 26 | 4-5 | Does not do well on dry land. Forms a fine turf and dense mat. | |
| St. Augustine (Stenotaphrum secundatum, S. Americanum). | Florida and the West Indian Islands. | 26 | 4-5 | Coarse and upright leaf, but keeps green when even Bermuda grass burns out. | |