Chapter M (3)

Sempervivum (_Houseleek_).--The hardy kinds are well known, and may often be seen growing on the roofs of cottages and on walls. They make good rock-work plants, and are easily increased by off-sets. The more tender kinds are suitable for the greenhouse. These should be planted in sandy loam and old brick rubbish. They require but very little water; more may be given when they are in flower. Cuttings, after being laid aside for a day or two to dry, will soon make root. Height, 6 in.

Senecio Pulcher (_Noble Crimson Groundsel_).--A warm position and a deep, rich, well-drained soil are needed for this flower. It may be propagated by cutting the roots into pieces 5 or 6 in. long, and dibbling them into light soil. It is also increased by the rootlets, which send up small growths in spring. Protect from damp and frost, and keep a sharp look-out for slugs. The flowers are produced in autumn. Height, 3 ft.

Senna, Bladder.--_See_ "Colutea."

Sensitive Plant.--_See_ "Mimosa."

Shallots.--Plant the bulbs in November, or in February or March, in rows 9 in. apart, and the bulbs 6 in. one from the other. In July, when the tops are dying down, lift the bulbs, lay them in the sunshine to dry, then store them in a cool place.

Shamrock.--_See_ "Trifolium Repens."

Sheep Scabious.--_See_ "Jasione."

Shortia Galacifolia.--A hardy, creeping Alpine evergreen, having oval leaves, slightly notched at the margins, which turn to a brilliant crimson during the autumn and winter months. In April and May it produces pearly-white flowers, somewhat Campanulate in form. It may be planted in early autumn or spring. A light, rich soil suits it best, and it delights in partial shade. It is a lovely plant for rock-work. Height, 6 in.

Shrubs.--Deciduous shrubs may be transplanted at any time during late autumn or winter when the ground is not too wet. Evergreen shrubs may be moved either early in autumn or in April or May, damp, warm, but not sunny weather being most suitable for the operation. They rejoice in a clean, healthy soil, such as good loam; animal manure does not agree with them, but wood ashes, or charcoal powder with a little guano, may be used. Cuttings of shrubs or trees may be taken in September, placed in a mixture of sandy loam and leaf-mould with 1/2 in. of sand on top, and covered with a hand-glass; 5 to 8 in. is a good length for the cuttings, all of which, with the exception of about 1 in., should be buried, and preferably with a heel of old wood. Keep the soil just damp and give shade.

Shrubs for Lawns.--Monkey Puzzle (_Araucaria Imbricata_)--mix wood ashes and burnt refuse with the soil; Thujopsis Delabrata, Thujopsis Borealis (of taller growth), Irish Yews, Cupressus Lawsoniana Erecta Viridis, Thujas Orientalis, Vervaeneana, Semperaurescens, Standard Rhododendrons, Standard and Pyramid Hollies, Yucca Gloriosa (a perfect picture), Yucca Recurva (the best hardy plant for vases). The Cercis tree is also well adapted for lawns.

Sicyos.--This hardy annual somewhat resembles the Cucumber, but is scarcely worth growing except as a curiosity. The seeds are sown on a hotbed in spring, potted off when strong enough, and transferred to the open border early in June. It is a climber, and flowers in August. Height, 3 ft.

Sidalcea.--Very pretty hardy perennials, of easy culture. S. Candida has pure white flowers closely arranged on the upper part of the stems. S. Malvaeflora bears beautifully fringed, satiny pink flowers. They will grow in any good soil from seed sown in autumn and protected during the winter, or they may be increased by division of the roots. Height, 3 ft.

Silene _(Catchfly_).--Elegant plants, delighting in a light, rich soil. Sow the seeds of the annual varieties early in April where they are intended to bloom. Silene Pendula, when sown in the autumn, makes a pleasing show of pink flowers in the spring. The roots of the herbaceous kinds may be divided in spring. The shrubby sorts are increased by cuttings planted under a hand-glass. The dwarfs make fine rock-work ornaments. Flowers are produced in June and July. Height, 2 in. to 1-1/2 ft.

Silphium Aurantiacum.--A good and hardy border perennial, which produces during July and August large deep orange-yellow flowers resembling a Sunflower. It is very useful for cutting, will grow anywhere, and can be increased by dividing the root. Height, 4 ft.

Sisyrinchium Grandifolium(_Satin Flower, or Rush Lily_).--A light loam suits this plant, which is moderately hardy. The soil should be moist, but not wet. It does not like being disturbed, but when necessary the crowns may be divided in autumn, taking care to spread the roots well out. It blooms in April or May. Height, 1 ft.

Skimmia.--Neat-growing, dwarf evergreen shrubs having Laurel-like leaves, and producing a profusion of scarlet berries in winter. They succeed in any ordinary soil, but thrive best in peat and loam; and are propagated by cuttings placed in heat under glass.

Slugs.--A sharp watch should be kept over all slugs, and constant visits paid to the garden at daybreak for their destruction. If fresh cabbage leaves are strewed about in the evening the slugs will congregate under them, and in the morning they may be gathered up and dropped into strong brine. The ground may also be dusted with fresh lime, which is fatal to them, but in wet weather the lime soon loses its power.

Smilax.--A greenhouse climbing plant that is admired for its foliage rather than its bloom. A mixture of peat and loam or leaf-mould and sandy loam suits it. Train the shoots up string, and freely water the plant in summer; during the autumn and winter it does not need much moisture. Keep the temperature of the house up to 60 degrees throughout the winter. It is readily increased by cuttings. It flowers in July. Fine for table decoration. Height, 4 ft.

Snails.--To prevent snails crawling up walls or fruit trees daub the ground with a thick paste of soot and train oil. There is no remedy so effectual for their destruction as hand-picking.

Snake's Head Lilies.--_See_ "Fritillarias."

Snapdragon.--_See_ "Antirrhinum."

Sneezewort.--_See_ "Achillea."

Snowball Tree.--_See_ "Viburnum."

Snowberry.--_See_ "Symphoricarpus."

Snowdrops _(Galanthus)._--These are most effective in clumps. They may be planted at any time from September to December, and left alone for three or four years, when they may be taken up and divided. They grow best in a light, rich soil.

Snowdrop Tree.--_See_ "Halesia."

Snowflake.--_See_ "Leucojum."

Snow in Summer.--_See_ "Arabis."

Soil and its Treatment.--Loam is a mixture of clay and sand. When the former predominates it is termed heavy loam, and when the latter abounds it is called light.

Marl is a compound of chalk and clay, or chalk and loam. Though suitable for certain fruit-trees and a few other things, few flowers will grow in it.

Drainage is one of the most important considerations in the cultivation of flowers. Should the soil be clayey, and hold water, make V-shaped drains, 3 ft. below the surface, and let 2-in. pipes lead to a deep hole made at the lowest part of the garden and filled with brick rubbish, or other porous substances, through which the water may drain; otherwise the cold, damp earth will rot the roots of the plants.

Trenching is the process of digging deep, so as to loosen and expose the soil as much as possible to the action of the air. If this is done in the autumn or early winter to a new garden, it is best to dig it deep, say about 2 ft, and leave it in large clods to the pulverising action of the frost, after which it is easily raked level for spring planting. If the clods are turned over the grass will rot and help to improve the ground; new land thus treated will not require manuring the first year. Should the ground be clayey, fine ashes or coarse sand thrown over the rough clods after trenching will greatly improve it.

Digging should be done when the ground is fairly dry, and about one spade deep. Avoid treading it down as much as possible.

Hoeing must be constantly attended to, both to prevent the soil becoming exhausted of its nourishment by the rapid growth of weeds, and because when the surface becomes hard and cracked the rain runs through the deep fissures, leaving the surface soil dry and the roots of the plants unnourished.

Mulching consists in spreading a layer of stable manure, about 3 in. deep, over the roots of trees and plants in the autumn to keep them warm and moist. The manure may be forked into the soil in the spring.

Watering the plants carefully is of great consequence. Evening or early morning is the best time, and one copious application is far better than little and often. Water may be given to the _roots_ at any time, but should not be sprinkled over the leaves in a hot sun nor in cold weather. Plants having a soft or woolly foliage should never be wetted overhead, but those with hard and shiny leaves may be freely syringed, especially when in full growth.

Solanum.--Showy greenhouse shrubs, some of which have ornamental foliage. The soil in which they are grown should be light and rich. Cuttings planted in sand under glass strike readily. The tender annual varieties may be sown on a hotbed in spring, and placed in the border at the end of May in a dry, sheltered situation, where they will flower in June. Height, 1 ft. and upwards.

Soldanellas.--These small herbaceous perennials should find a place in all Alpine collections. They grow best in sandy peat, or in leaf-mould with a liberal addition of sand, and they require a moderate amount of moisture. They may be increased by dividing the roots in April. They flower from March to May. Height, 4 in. or 5 in.

Solidago (_Golden Rod_).--A useful hardy perennial for the back of borders. Throughout late summer and autumn it produces masses of golden flowers. It is not over-particular as to soil, and may be increased by dividing the root in the spring. It increases very rapidly. Height, 2 ft. to 6 ft.

Solomon's Seal (_Polygonatum Multiflorum_).--A graceful hardy plant bearing white pendulent flowers on long curving stems. Plant freely in light, rich soil, in a shady position or under trees. The plants should not be disturbed, even by digging among the roots. Flowers in May. Height, 2 ft.

Soot-Water.--For room and window plants soot-water has this advantage over coarse animal manures, that while the latter are unhealthy and apt to taint the air, the former is purifying and has no unpleasant smell. It is easily made by tying a little soot in a coarse canvas bag and immersing it in a pail of water. It should be applied in a clear, thin state to plants in bud or in full growth during the summer months.

Sorrel.--Sow in March or April in any garden soil, thin out to 1 ft. apart. It is desirable to cut away the flower-stems and to divide the roots every two or three years. The plants may be forced for winter use.

Southernwood (_Artemisia Arborea_).--Any soil suits this odoriferous bush, and it is readily increased by cuttings or by division.

Sparaxis.--Closely allied to the Ixias, equally beautiful and varied in colour, but rather dwarfer and compact in growth. Invaluable for pot-culture. For outdoor cultivation plant them early in September, 5 or 6 in. deep, on a sheltered border, in rich, well-drained, loamy soil. Protect from frost and wet in the winter, but keep the roots moist while they are growing. For indoor cultivation plant four to six bulbs in a 5-in. pot, plunge in ashes in a cold frame, withholding water till the plants appear. When making full growth remove them to a sunny window or conservatory, and water them carefully. They will bloom in March or April. Height, 3 ft.

Sparmannia Africana.--An exceedingly handsome and attractive greenhouse evergreen shrub, thriving best in loam and peat. Cuttings may be struck in sand under glass. May is its flowering season. Height, 10 ft.

Spartium Junceum(_Yellow Broom_).--A hardy evergreen shrub which will grow in any soil, and is propagated by seeds. It flowers in August. Height, 6 ft.

Specularia Speculum.--_See_ "Venus's Looking-Glass."

Spergula Pilfera.--May be grown in any moist situation in sandy soil. It is of little value.

Sphenogyne Speciosa.--An elegant hardy annual. Sow the seed early in spring on a gentle hotbed in loam and peat, harden off, and transplant at the end of May to a soil composed of loam and leaf-mould, if peat cannot be obtained. The bloom is produced in July. Height, 1 ft.

Spider Wort.--_See_ "Commelina" _and_ "Tradescantia."

Spigelia Marilandica.--From August to October this hardy perennial produces tubular crimson and yellow flowers. It finds a congenial home in damp peat, shaded from the sun, and may be propagated by cuttings in loam and peat under glass. Height, 1 ft.

Spinach.--For summer use sow the round-seeded kinds at intervals of two or three weeks from February to the end of July in rows 1 ft. apart, cover with the finest of soil, and thin out to a distance of 3 or 4 in. In dry weather give a liberal supply of manure water. Pull before it runs to seed. For winter use sow the prickly-seeded variety in August and September, and thin the plants out 9 in. apart. If the ground is hot and dry, the seed should be soaked for twenty-four hours before it is sown. New Zealand Spinach may be sown in the open during May, choosing the warmest spot for its growth; but it is best to sow it in heat in March, keeping the soil fairly moist, and, after hardening it off, to plant it out in June, 3 ft. apart Sow Perpetual Spinach or Spinach Beet in March in drills 1 ft. apart. Cut the leaves frequently, when a fresh crop will be produced.

Spiraeas.--Placed in the open ground these make splendid plants, and are not particular as to soil, though a moist, rich one is preferable. For forcing, plant the clumps in 6-in. pots, and keep them in a cool frame until they are well rooted. They may then be removed indoors and forced rapidly, supplying them with an abundance of water. Their elegant flower spikes are invaluable for bouquets and table decoration. The shrubby kinds are increased by layers or cuttings of the young wood, the herbaceous varieties by division of the roots in autumn. Spiraea Aruncus, if potted early in the autumn, is very valuable for winter decoration. Spiraeas bloom at different periods, from May to August, and vary in height, 3 or 4 ft. being the general growth.

Spruce Firs.--_See_ "Abies."

Stachys Coccinea.--This scarlet hardy annual is fine for bees. It may be grown in any soil from seed sown in March or April. Height, 1 ft.

Stachys Lanata.--A hardy perennial which will grow in any soil, and bears division. It flowers in July. Height, 2 ft.

Staphylea Colchica_(Mexican Bladder Nut)._--This beautiful free-flowering shrub will grow in any garden soil, and produces bunches of fragrant, delicate white flowers in June. It forces well, and may be made to flower at Easter by potting it in rich, light soil, placing it in a cold frame till the middle of January, keeping the roots moist, then bringing it into the warm house. It may be propagated by suckers from the roots, by layers, or by cuttings taken in autumn.

Star Flower.--_See_ "Trientalis."

Star of Bethlehem.--_See_ "Ornithogalum."

Statice _(Sea Lavender)._--The greenhouse and frame varieties succeed best in sandy loam and peat, and may be increased by cuttings placed under a bell-glass or in a warm pit. The hardy herbaceous kinds are very suitable for the front of flower borders, and may be freely increased by seeds or division. The annuals, if sown in March, will produce flowers in July. Statices require a good amount of water, but thorough drainage must be ensured. If the flowers are dried they will keep their colour for a considerable time. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

Stauntonia Latifolia.--A greenhouse evergreen climbing plant, which needs a peat and loam soil and plenty of room for its roots. It flowers in April, and is increased by cuttings planted in sand under glass, with a gentle heat. Height, 10 ft.

Stenactis (_Fleabane_).--Showy hardy perennials which make fine bedding plants. They may be grown from seed, which is produced in great quantities, and merely requires the same treatment as other perennials, or they may be propagated by dividing the plants. They bloom in July. Height, 2 ft.

Stephanotis.--This pretty evergreen twining plant is most suitable for the greenhouse, and flourishes in a mixture of loam and leaf-mould. It flowers in May, and is increased by cuttings struck in heat. Height, 10 ft.

Sternbergia Lutea.--A hardy perennial which produces bright yellow flowers in August. It likes a rich soil, and is propagated by off-sets. Height, 6 in.

Stipa Pennata (_Feather Grass_).--One of the most graceful of our ornamental grasses, and most attractive in the border. The seed may be sown early in March, keeping the ground moist until it has germinated, and it is also increased by division. Height, 2 ft.

Stobæa Purpurea.--A hardy border plant with long spiny foliage, and bearing from July to September large light blue flowers. It requires a light, rich soil. Young cuttings may be struck in sand. Height, 1 ft.

Stocks--

_ANNUAL, OR TEN WEEKS' STOCKS_.--Sow the seeds in February, March, April, and May for succession; those sown in May will continue to flower till Christmas. The soil should be rich, and occasionally a little manure-water may be given. Another sowing may be made in August and September. When the plants have several leaves pot off singly in vegetable loam and river sand. Height, 1 ft. to 1-1/2 ft.

_BROMPTON_.--Sow very thinly during the first week in May in a rich, light, sandy border, with an eastern aspect. When 2 or 3 in. high, thin out to 9 in. apart. Those taken out may be re-planted in the flower border, 9 in. from each other. In transplanting reject those plants having a long tap-root: they generally prove to be single. If the following winter be severe they must be protected with mats. Any desirable varieties may be propagated by cuttings, which root readily under glass if kept shaded. Should it be desirable to transplant them to another part of the garden, March or April will be found the best time to remove them. Shade the plants till they are established, and use liquid manure till they begin to flower.

_GREENHOUSE OR SHRUBBY_ species grow best in a mixture of light soil and sand, and cuttings of these Stocks root readily under glass.

_NIGHT-SCENTED STOCKS_.--_See_ "Mathiola Bicornis." If Emperor, Imperial, or Intermediate Stocks are sown in March or April, they will flower in the autumn; if sown in June or July they will flower during the following June, and throughout the summer and autumn.

Stokesia Cyanea.--A handsome herbaceous perennial which is quite hardy, but owing to the late period at which it flowers its blooms are liable to be cut off by frosts. It is therefore more suitable for a cool house than the open air, unless the warmest and most sheltered position be assigned to it. A rich, sandy soil is indispensable for its growth. It may be increased by dividing the roots in spring. The flowers are produced from October to December. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Stonecrop.--_See_ "Sedum."

Strawberries.--The soil most suitable for the growth of this fruit is a rich, deep, adhesive loam. July or early in August is the best time to make new beds, but if the ground be not then available runners from the old plants may be planted in peat on a north border and lifted with good balls of earth to their permanent bed in the spring. Set them firmly in rows 2 ft. apart and 18 in. from plant to plant. Spread out the roots and avoid deep planting. Remove from the old plants all runners not required for new beds before they take root, as they exhaust the crown. In dry seasons liquid manure is highly beneficial. Some growers give supports to the fruit by means of forked-shaped pegs, while others lay straw down to keep the fruit free from grit. Keep a sharp look-out for snails and slugs. King of the Earlies, Auguste Nicaise, Royal Sovereign, Vicomtesse Héricart de Thury, Gunton Park, President, Sir Joseph Paxton, Lord Suffield, Noble, and Samuel Bradley are excellent sorts. For Ornamental Strawberries, _see_ "Fragaria Indica."

Strawberry Tree.--_See_ "Arbutus."

Streptocarpus (_Cape Primrose_).--This plant is a greenhouse perennial, showing great variety of colours, from white to violet and crimson, and is of neat habit. A light and rather rich soil or vegetable mould suits it best. Seed sown in February in slight heat will produce plants for flowering in July; that sown in March or April will flower in August and September. Grow slowly in small pots, and in February put them in their flowering pots. Give plenty of air and shade them from the sun. It may also be increased by division, or leaf-cuttings may be taken under a bell-glass. The plants like plenty of water, but need good drainage. Height, 9 in.

Streptosolen Jamesoni.--A good compost for this greenhouse evergreen shrub is two parts sandy loam, one part leaf-mould, and a little silver sand. During growth it needs a liberal supply of water and to be kept near the glass; only a small amount of moisture should be given in winter. In March cut it into shape, and re-pot it as soon as new growth starts. During the summer syringe it frequently to keep off red spider, and during winter maintain a temperature of 55 degrees.

Stylophorum _(Celandine Poppy, or Poppywort)._--During May and June this hardy and handsome plant produces fine yellow flowers. It accommodates itself to any soil, but prefers a rich, light one, and can be increased by seed sown in autumn or early spring. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Styrax.--Ornamental shrubs requiring a light soil for their cultivation. S. Japonica has Snowdrop-like flowers, and S. Obasa Lily-of-the-Valley-like scented flowers. They are best propagated by layers. Height, 4 ft. to 10 ft.

Sunflower.--_See_ "Helianthus."

Swainsonia Galegifolia Alba.--A graceful and charming cool greenhouse plant, with Fern-like evergreen foliage and pure white flowers, which are borne from April to November. The soil most suitable for it is a mixture of loam and sandy peat. Cuttings of the young growth planted in sand under glass strike readily. Height, 2 ft.

Swallow Wort.--_See_ "Asclepias."

Swamp Lilies.--_See_ "Zephyranthes."

Swan River Daisy.--_See_ "Brachycome."

Sweet Alyssum.--_See_ "Alyssum."

Sweet Flag.--_See_ "Acorus."

Sweet Peas.--_See_ "Peas, Sweet."

Sweet Rocket.--_See_ "Rocket."

Sweet Scabious.--_See_ "Scabious."

Sweet Sultan.--Sweet-scented, Thistle-shaped hardy annual flowers, which are very useful for cutting. They may be raised in any garden soil from seed sown in March or April, and will flower in August. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Sweet William.--Well-known hardy perennials, and deservedly favourite border plants, which may be grown in any good soil; but to have them to perfection they should be placed in light, loamy ground mixed with a little old manure and sand. They can be raised with little trouble from seed sown thinly at any time between March and midsummer where they are to bloom, and may also be increased by dividing the old plants in spring. They produce their flowers in July. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Symphoricarpus (_Snowberry_).--A handsome species of St. Peter's Wort. The shrubs will grow in any ordinary soil, are hardy, and readily propagated by suckers, which are produced abundantly; or cuttings may be taken either in spring or autumn. They bloom in August. Height, 4 ft.

Symphytum Caucasicum.--Hardy perennials. They will grow in any soil or situation, even thriving under the shade of trees, and may be increased by division. June is the month in which they flower. Height, 3 ft.

Syringa (_Lilac_.)--There are many choice varieties of these favourite shrubs, but any of them may be grown in a tolerably good soil. They are propagated by layers or by suckers from the root. They bloom in May or June. Height varies from 4 ft. to 12 ft.

T

Tacsonia.--A beautiful twining shrub belonging to the Passiflora family. It should be provided with a rich soil, and, as the flowers are produced upon the lateral shoots, it requires frequent stopping. Syringe frequently in warm weather to induce a quick growth. It is a quick grower, and, when properly treated, a profuse bloomer, the flowers being produced in July, August, and September. Cuttings of young shoots placed under glass in a sandy soil will strike. Height, 20 ft.

Tagetes (_French and African Marigolds_).--Half-hardy annuals, very elegant when in flower, and deserve a place in the garden. The seed should be sown on a hotbed in March or April, the plants gradually hardened off, and placed in the open at the end of May in a rich, light soil, when they will flower in August. Height, 1 ft. to 2-1/2 ft.

Tamarix.--Neat feathery plants, very suitable for banks and thriving at the seaside, as is evidenced by its luxuriant growth along the parades at Eastbourne. The hardy kinds will grow in any soil, and may be propagated by cuttings planted in the open either in spring or autumn. The greenhouse and stove varieties require a soil of loam and peat. Cuttings of these should be placed in sand under glass. They flower in June and July. Height, 8 ft. to 10 ft.

Tansy.--A feathery-foliaged hardy perennial, useful for mixing with cut blooms. No special treatment is required. Height, 11 ft.

Taxus.--_See_ "Yew."

Tecoma.--Ornamental evergreen shrubs of a twining nature, needing a greenhouse for their cultivation. They require a rich, loamy soil mixed with a little sand, or loam and peat, and rejoice in shade and moisture. T. Radicans will grow in the open against a wall, but a warm situation is needed to make it flower. They may be propagated by cuttings of the roots placed in sand under a hand-glass, and by layers. Their flowers are produced in July and August. Height, 6 ft. to 30 ft.

Telekia.--_See_ "Buphthalmum."

Tellima Grandiflora.--A hardy and very ornamental perennial with round bronzy foliage and spikes of white flowers at midsummer. It succeeds best in peat, but will grow in any rich, light soil. To increase it, divide the roots. Height, 1 ft.

Tetratheca.--Pretty greenhouse evergreen shrubs which produce pink flowers in July. They flourish in a soil consisting of equal proportions of loam, peat, and sand. Cuttings of the young wood planted under glass in a sandy soil will strike. Height, 1 ft.

Teucrium Scorodonia.--This hardy herbaceous plant will grow in any ordinary garden soil. It flowers in July, and is easily raised from seed or increased by division. Height, 1-1/2 ft.

Thalictrum.--Hardy Fern-like perennials, suitable for the backs of borders. They grow well in any light soil from seed sown in spring or autumn, and may also be increased by division.

Thermopsis Montana_(Fabacea)._--This hardy perennial produces spikes of yellow Lupin-like flowers from June to September. The soil should be light and rich. As the plants suffer by division, it is best to raise them by seed, which may be sown either in autumn or spring. Height, 2 ft.

Thladianthe Dubia.--A fine climbing plant with handsome foliage and an abundance of fine yellow flowers. Quite hardy. Sow on a hotbed early in spring, and when sufficiently large and strong, pot off, place in a cold frame to harden, and plant out at the end of May in rich soil.

Thrift.--_See_ "Armeria."

Thumbergia.--These slender, rapid-growing climbers are extremely pretty when in bloom during June, but they are only half-hardy; they therefore need greenhouse care, or to be planted in a warm situation. They flourish best in a mixture of sandy loam and leaf-mould, and may be grown from seed sown in heat (65 to 75 degrees) early in spring. Cuttings strike readily. Height, 4 ft.

Thuya (_Arbor Vitae_).--Very decorative conifers, mostly of conical shape, and indispensable to the shrubbery. They thrive in any soil, but prefer a moist situation. For sheltered positions, where a small dome-shaped bush is required, the Chinese Arbor Vitae _(Biota Orientalis)_ is most desirable; it delights in a heavy soil. The Biota Elegantissima is one of the most unique hardy shrubs cultivated, and presents a bright golden appearance. Another effective yellow variety is the Semperaurescens, which retains its colour throughout the winter, and makes a fine pot-plant. One of the most beautiful of all evergreens is the Thuyopsis Dolabrata; its flat, spray-like leaves are bright green above and silvery below. The China varieties are somewhat tender, and require protection from frost. They may all be propagated from seed or by cuttings.

Thymus.--Effective little perennials for rock-work, growing best in a light, dry, sandy soil. The hardy kinds like an exposed position; rarer kinds should be grown in pots, as they need protection in winter. They are easily increased by seed sown in spring, by cuttings or division. Height, 3 in. to 6 in.

Tiarella.--These hardy herbaceous plants are very suitable for rock-work or the front of a border. They are not particular as to soil; they flower in April, and may be propagated by seed or division. Height, 9 in. to 1 ft.

Tiarella Cordifolia (_Foam Flower_).--A hardy herbaceous perennial, having fine foliage. It will grow in any good soil, but likes shade and moisture. It may be increased by dividing the roots at the end of the summer. The blooms are produced during May and June. Height, 1 ft.

Tigridia (_Ferraria; Mexican Tiger Flower, popularly called the Tiger Iris_).--A gorgeous flower of exceptional beauty. Plant the bulbs in the sunniest spot out of doors during March, April, or May, in a sandy loam enriched with a liberal amount of leaf-mould, placing them 3 in. deep and 6 in. apart, and putting a little silver sand round each bulb before covering it with the soil. Shelter from cutting winds. The blossoms appear in July or August. Each bloom lasts only one day, but is succeeded on the next by fresh ones, so that a continuance of bloom is maintained. Protect them in winter with a covering of dead leaves, or, better still, take them up when they have done flowering, and keep them dry and free from frost. For pot-culture plant the bulbs in sandy loam and peat, plunge them in a cold frame, and withhold water until the foliage appears. They may be increased by off-sets or seeds. Height, 1 ft.

Tobacco Plants.--_See_ "Nicotiana."

Tobacco-Water.--Boil 2 oz. of shag, or other strong tobacco, in a pint of water. Apply with a soft brush. This is a deadly poison to insects.

Tomatoes (_Love Apples_).--Those intended to be grown in the open should be raised from seed sown the first week in March in pots of very rich, light mould. Place them in a cucumber-house or other gentle heat, and when the second leaf appears, pot them off singly, keeping them near the glass and well watered. Towards the end of May remove them to a cold frame to harden off, and plant out as soon as fear of frost is over, in deeply-dug and moderately manured ground, against a south wall fully exposed to the sun. Train to a single stem and remove all lateral growths. When the plants are 3 or 4 ft. high pinch off the tops to prevent further growth and throw strength into the fruit. Watering should cease as soon as the blossom-buds appear, except in periods of very severe drought. When grown under glass Tomatoes need to be trained in much the same way as Grape Vines. Constant attention must be given to removing all useless shoots and exposing the fruit to air and light. An average temperature of 60 degrees should be maintained, with a rather dry and buoyant atmosphere.

Toothwort.--_See_ "Dentaria."

Torch Lily.--_See_ "Tritoma."

Torenia.--These stove and greenhouse plants require a rich soil. They may be increased by seed or division. They flower during June and July. Height, 6 in. to 9 in.

Tournefort.--_See_ "Crambe Cordifolia."

Tradescantia Virginica (_Spider Wort_).--A hardy herbaceous plant. In a light, rich soil it will flower in July. Height, 1 ft. There are other varieties of Tradescantia; they all make good border plants, thrive in any situation, and are continuous bloomers.

Transplanting.--Plants may be transplanted as soon as they are large enough to handle. They must be lifted carefully with a small trowel, or if they are very small, such as Golden Feather, with a still smaller blunt article, disturbing the roots as little as possible. It should be done when the ground is wet, and preferably in the evening. In dry weather they should be well watered twelve hours before they are disturbed. Shade them from sun for one or two days. Cabbages, Lettuces, Cauliflowers, Broccoli, Kale, and other members of the Brassica family _must_ be transplanted, or they will be a failure. Root crops such as Carrots, Parsnips, Turnips, etc., must not be transplanted, but thinned out. Celery may be transplanted in June or July.

Traveller's Joy (_Clematis Viorna_).--This hardy climbing plant grows best in a light soil, flowers in August, and is increased by layers of the young shoots in summer. Height, 12 ft.

Trees, Plants that Flourish under.--Ivy, St. John's Wort (Hypericum Calycinum), early-flowering White Aconite.

Tricyrtis.--These greenhouse herbaceous plants bloom in May. A rich, light soil suits them. Height, 6 in.

Trientalis Europæa (_Star Flower_).--To grow this native perennial to advantage, it should be planted in leaf-mould with which a large proportion of sand has been mixed. Confine the roots to a narrow compass by means of slates placed just beneath the surface of the soil. Let the ground be kept moist, but well drained. The bloom is produced during May and June, and it is propagated by runners. Height, 6 in. to 8 in.

Trifolium Repens Pentaphyllum.--A showy, hardy, deciduous perennial. It thrives in ordinary soil, puts forth its white flowers in June, and is propagated by seed or division. Height, 6 in.

Trillium Erectum (_Wood Lily_).--This tuberous perennial is quite hardy, and flourishes in partial shade. The soil must be light and rich, yet moist. The plant does not increase very fast, but the roots of good-sized plants may be divided. It flowers in May and June. Height, 6 in.

Tritelia.--A charming spring-flowering plant, bearing pretty white star-like flowers on slender stalks. It is used largely for edgings. It looks well in clumps on the front of borders. Plant in autumn, and divide the bulbs every two or three years. Height, 6 in.

Tritoma (_Red-hot Poker, or Torch Lily_).--Requires a rich, sandy soil, and to be protected in a frame from wet and frost in the winter. Increase by division or by suckers from the root. The flower spikes grow 18 to 27 in. long. The crown of the plant should not be more than 11/2 in. in the soil, which should be dug deeply and mixed with rotted manure. In winter, if it is left in the ground, surround the plant with 2 in. of sawdust, well trodden. Remove this in May, and water liberally with liquid manure till it blooms. The best time to plant is March or October. By many it is considered advisable not to disturb the plant too often.

Tritonias.--These somewhat resemble miniature Gladioli, and are among the most useful bulbs for pot-culture. Plant from September to December, placing five or six bulbs in a 5-in. pot, and using a compost of loam, leaf-mould, and silver sand. Plunge the pots in ashes in a cold pit or frame, and keep them dry until the plants appear. When in full growth they may be removed to the conservatory, placing them near the glass, and giving careful attention to watering. For outdoor cultivation choose a sunny, sheltered position, with a light, rich, sandy soil. Give protection in frosty weather by covering with dry litter.

Trollius Altaiense (_Globe Flower_).--A pretty, hardy herbaceous plant, with very handsome foliage. It likes a light but moist soil, may be increased by seed or by dividing the root, and flowers in May. Height, 9 in. to 2 ft.

Trollius Asiaticus.--A very pretty herbaceous plant, suitable for the border. It may be raised from seed sown in the autumn, and grown on in light, moist soil. The plant is hardy and flowers in May. Height, 1 ft.

Tropæolums--

_JARRATTI_ (_scarlet, orange, and black_) are remarkable for a slender and graceful growth. Well adapted for covering wire globes, trellises, etc.

_LOBBIANUM_ (_various colours_).--Elegant dwarf climbers, suitable either for the conservatory or for outdoor culture. They may also be used for bedding if planted thinly and kept pegged down; or may be grown in window-boxes. Height, 6 ft.

_PENTAPHYLLUM_ (_red_) is slender and graceful, and an elegant climber.

_POLYPHYLLUM_ (_yellow_) succeeds best against a south wall. It is hardy, has rich abundant glaucous foliage, and is a particularly fine climber.

_SPECIOSUM_ (_scarlet_).--Of wild, graceful, luxuriant and slender growth. Fine for covering walls and fences, festooning arches, etc. Plant at the beginning of October in an eastern aspect or at the base of a north wall, the soil and atmosphere being moderately moist. Bury the roots 4 in. deep.

_TUBEROSUM_ (_yellow and red_) is quite hardy, and may be planted in any situation.

Generally a light, rich soil is most suitable. The greenhouse varieties may be increased by cuttings placed in sandy soil under glass. The tuberous-rooted kinds should be taken up in winter and kept in sand till spring, when they may be planted in a sheltered part of the garden. The annuals merely require to be sown in the open in spring. They flower in July, August, and September. Height, 1 ft. to 10 ft. (_See also_ "Canary Creeper.")

Trumpet Flower.--_See_ "Bignonia."

Tuberose.--Plant the bulbs in January in a mixture of sandy loam and rotten dung, or leaf-mould, using a small pot for each bulb. Plunge them in a hotbed, taking care that the temperature does not fall below 60 degrees, and withhold water until the foliage appears, when a moderate amount should be given. When the pots are full of roots, shift the plants into larger ones, and grow on in a house with a uniform high temperature and moist atmosphere. For a succession of bloom place the roots in a cold frame and cover with cocoanut fibre until growth begins, then remove the fibre, water moderately, and transfer the most forward plants to the conservatory. Bloom may be had all the year round by planting in succession from September to June.

Tulips.--Drainage may be considered as the chief means of success in the cultivation of these showy spring flowers. The soil they like best is well-rotted turf cut from pasture land and mixed with a moderate amount of sand, but they will thrive in any ground that is well drained. The bulbs should be planted during October and November about 3 in. deep and 5 in. apart, either in lines or groups, and they retain their bloom longest in a shady situation. As soon as the leaves begin to decay the bulbs may be taken up, dried, and stored away, keeping the colours separate. For pot-culture the single varieties are best. Put three bulbs in a 5-in. pot and six in a 6-in. one, and treat in the same manner as the Hyacinth. They may, if desired, be forced as soon as the shoots appear. When required to fill vases, etc., it is a good plan to grow them in shallow boxes, and transfer them when in flower to the vases or baskets. By this method exactitude of height and colouring is ensured. Tulips are divided into three classes: (1) Roses, which have a white ground, with crimson, pink, or scarlet marks; (2) Byblomens, having also a white ground, but with lilac, purple, or black marks; and (3) Bizarres, with a yellow ground having marks of any colour.

Tunica.--Same treatment as "Dianthus."

Turkey's Beard.--_See_ "Xerophyllum."

Turnips.--To obtain mild and delicately-flavoured Turnips a somewhat light, sandy, but deep, rich soil is necessary. For a first crop sow the Early White Dutch variety in February or the beginning of March on a warm border. For succession sow Early Snowball at intervals of three weeks until the middle of July. For winter use sow Golden Ball, or other yellow-fleshed kinds, early in August. Thin each sowing out so that the bulbs stand 9 in. apart. To ensure sound, crisp, fleshy roots they require to be grown quickly, therefore moist soil and liberal manuring is necessary, and the ground kept free from weeds. If fly becomes troublesome, dust the plants with quicklime early in the day, while the dew is on them, and repeat the operation as often as is necessary.

Tussilago Fragrans (_Winter Heliotrope_).--A very fragrant hardy perennial, flowering in January and February. It will grow in any good garden soil and bears division. Height, 1 ft.

Twin Flower.--_See_ "Bravoa."

U

Ulex Europaeus Flore Pleno (_Double Furze_).--This elegant, hardy, evergreen shrub likes a rich, sandy soil, and may be increased by cuttings planted in a shady border and covered with a hand-glass. Height, 5 ft.

Umbilicus Chrysanthus.--This little Alpine plant should occupy a warm, sheltered, and dry situation, and be protected with an overhead screen in wet seasons. The soil it most enjoys is a mixture of peat and coarse sand. Its procumbent stalks emit roots. This new growth may be transplanted in the spring or early summer months. Height, 6 in.

Uvularia.--Beautiful hardy perennials, producing drooping flowers from May to July. They succeed best in a light, sandy soil, and may be increased by dividing the roots. Height, 1 ft.