Chapter LXIII: Little Gardeners’ Calendar

THE following plan was given to Mary Frances and Eleanor by the boys.

They called it—

THE LITTLE GARDENERS’ CALENDAR

In _Mid-Winter_ or _January_, plan out your garden,
drawing a map and filling in space.

* * * * *

A little later, in _February_, get the hotbed ready,
and spray roses with Bordeaux Arsenate of Lead,
remembering it is a violent poison. Use one tablespoon
to a quart of water. This will help prevent mildews and
fungi.

* * * * *

In _March_, or even in _February_, study seed catalogue
and order seeds.

Plant some seeds in the hotbed.

Prepare some of the out-door seed beds by spading and
manuring.

In _April_, transplant hardier plants to cold frame, or
open ground.

Spray everything again.

If weather is warm enough, sow seeds out of doors.

* * * * *

In _May_, sow seeds of some annuals and vegetables
out-of-doors.

Look out for weeds: kill them while young.

* * * * *

In _June_, plant seeds and seedlings in open ground.

* * * * *

In _July_, plant late seeds; carrots, turnips, etc.

* * * * *

In _August_, start perennials for next year. Weed!

* * * * *

In _September_, order bulbs needed.

Move flowering plants which are not in right place.

* * * * *

In _October_, save seeds of annual flowers, labeling
each envelope carefully.

Set out bulbs, unless you live below or near the Mason
and Dixon line; _November_ is a better time in that
case.

In _November_, rake up leaves and make into compost
heap. Throw a little lime among them. Never burn them.
They make humus.

Take up summer bulbs and store them carefully.

Spread manure over the ground to be spaded in the
Spring.

Hill earth about six inches high over rose bush roots.

Spread litter and leaves over bulbs and perennials to
protect them during winter.

* * * * *

In _December_, trim dead wood from rose bushes.

Destroy nests of cocoons, burning them, and read the
MARY FRANCES GARDEN BOOK.