Evening star., 1947-11-23

to have a moment to enjoy his
garden.
Frequently we hear of gardeners
who like to have everything neat
and formal. Formal gardens in their
place are desirable, but we should
not attempt one without realizing
that they require a considerable
effort, because formal lines are
straight lines. This means the
hedges must be kept neatly trimmed.
The edgings likewise should be kept
to size and in order. Even the gar
den paths should be neat and trim.
With informal paintings there is
not the demand for neatness and
order that belongs in the formal
garden. This doesn't imply aban-
don, but it does indicate that in
formal gardens are less of task
master than the formal ones.
Choice of Trees Important.
Another type of mistake that is
equally onerous, is the choice OF
trees. Many comment on the beau
ty of the American elm, the quick
ness of growth of the maple, and
the magniacance OF the beech.
However, these trees all have a
serious fault-it is almost impossible
to grow grass beneath them or to
have flower beds within reach Of
their greedy roots
Fortunately there are other de-
sirable trees which can be used in
place of those which have some
Objectionable characteristics. But
trees are not alone in having good
and bad traits. There are shrubs
which outgrow their situations; the
little spruce that we selected in
the nursery is not suitable ever
green for the foundation. 1t is a
tall-growing plant that often
reaches 80 to 100 feet in its native
haunts. Even the low-growing Jap
anese yew that makes such a lovely
foundation planting around the
public buildings has very spreading
ways. We may enjoy the spread
ing yew because it can be kept
trimmed without too much work,
but the spruce cannot be easily
pruned.
Similarly some perennials should
be carefully avoided if we are to
enjoy our flower borders without
undue work. The hardy ageratum
(Eupatorium) makes a very attrac-
tive showing in the early fall, but
it spreads by seed and by under
ground rhi1omes that are nearly as
troublesome as bermuda grass. The
hardy asters are notorious for scat
tering their seeds.
Another common mistake which
the average gardener is encouraged
to make is that of planting things
too closely. 1t is admitted that the
newly set out trees and shrubs look
very small and forlorn, but we
should visualize their appearance in
a few years. If we do look ahead
we are less likely to have an over
grown wilderness about the time we
expected to have lovely specimens.
Fruit Tree Problem.
Many gardeners try to find space
for an apple tree or two, q few
peaches, a pear and just a few
fruit trees for the home" Unfor-
tunately, fruit growing is more of a
problem today than when we were
youngsters. To have fruit today we
must spray often and thoroughly,
otherwise the fruit may be wormy,
diseased and chore to dispose of
rather than the luscious delicacies
that are anticipated.
| A common error, especially in the
Washington area, is attempting to
grow those plants with which we
were familiar back home" Too
often gardeners attempt to grow
delphinium, lupine, China asters,
rambler roses and other plants
which are not adapted to local soils
and climate. We should take stock
of our soil, its moisture, the slope of
the garden, sun, shade and exposure
before deciding upon the kind of
plants we want to grow Very few
ANIMALS will thrive in more than
light shade. On the other hand
there are many perennials that like
shady situations providing they
have moisture and food. Shallow
rooted trees make the growing of
flowers exceedingly difficult.
Many gardeners are intrigued
with rock gardens. They make
lovely settings for scores of dainty
plants, but in the Washington area
we should not attempt the lovely al
pines. They can be grown, but it
takes special provisions and much
care if they are to thrive.
There are many other pitfalls, but
the above should indicate the i'm
portance of studying the especial
problem confronting the gardener.
= A LASTING CHRISTMAS PRESENT 8
- AFFORDING JOY AND GRAT1FI- q
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