Colchiculns PINK GIANT (C . autumnale major) Gorgeous rich' pink blos­ soms of enormous size in September-October. Free flowering beyond belief. ROSE BEAUTY (C . autumnale minor) The latest to flower­ October and November. Star shaped flowers of clear rose­ lilac, produced in great profusion. CHECKERED BEAUTY (C. agrippinum) The glory of the spe­ cies! Many large rosy-lilac flowers, checkered deeper purple from a single bulb! 9 Tubers - 3 each of above - Only $9.75 Fall Flowering Crocus Species ORCHID WONDER (C. sativus) The true meadow saffron October flowering. This exciting orchid beauty with its brilliant Chinese-red stigmatas, which are used for saffron flavoring and dye, has been an important object of trade since Alexander the Great. Highly prized for its delicious fragrance. You may bring this exotic beauty and its storied history to your garden, for only $4.95 per dozen. 50 for $17.95. COLCHICUM "PINK GIANT" • WE PAY POSTAGE •

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Hctrticulturist Volume 55 Number 4 August, 1976 For United Horticulture .. . the particu­ lar objects and business of The Ameri­ MURRAY KEEN E, Ed itor can Horticultural Society are to promote JANE STEFFE Y, Editorial Assistant and encourage national interest in scien­ DONALD WYMAN, Horticultural Consultant tific research and educatio n in horticul­ ALEX BERRY, Art Director ture in all of its branches. TOM STE VENSON, Book Departm ent Th e American Horticultural Society, Publisher AMERlCAN HORTICULTURIST is the Mount Vernon, Virginia 22 121 official publication of The American 703/768-5700 Horticul tu ral Soci ety, 7931 Eas t Boulevard Drive, Alexandria, Virginia 22308, and is issued in February, April, June, August, October and December. An Editorial Membership in the Society automati­ Pl ant Safety call y includes a subscription toAmerical7 Horticu lturist and $1 .50 is designated fo r each issue of this publication. Member­ ship dues s tart at $15.00 a year. Education Refer editorial matters to : 6 Fl owers As a Natural Source of Beauty-E. E. Leppik Murray Keene 22 Un derstanding Lettuce-Thomas W. Whitaker American Horticulturist Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121 28 You Can Grow You r Own Giraffe-Donald Wyman 33 About th e Bees and the Flowers-Dona ld Wyman Refer advertising matters to : Pu blisher Services, Inc. 621 Duke Street Alexandria, Virginia 22314 Gardeners Notebook 14 A Japanese Ga rden in Colorado-Lorraine and Guy Burgess AMERlCAN HORTICULTURIST is de­ voted to the dissemination of knowl­ edge in the science and art of growing 18 More Than Zinnias, Earlier Tha n Mari golds- Jane P. McKinnon ornamental plants, fruits, vegetables, and related subjects. Original papers 25 Perenn ials fo r Summer Bl oom-Herbert C. Fordham which increase knowledge of plant ma­ terials of economic and aesthetic impor­ tance are in v ited. For manuscript specifications please address the edi tor, Commentary Mo unt Vernon, Virgin ia 22121. 11 Does the Worm Turn- R. Milton Carl eton Rep lacement issues of AMERICAN HORTICULTURIST are available at a cos t of $2.50 per copy, but not beyond Travel Log twelve months prior to date of curren t issue. 36 Th e English Cottage Garden-Patrick M. Synge V. H.M.

The opinions expressed in the articles w h ic h appear in AMERICAN HOR­ TICULTURIST are those of the authors My Favorite Plant and are not necessaril y those of th e Soci­ 30 The Ro cky Mountain Co lumbine-William G. Gambill, Jr. ety. They are presented as contributions to contemporary though t. 38 Jade Makes a Great Houseplant- Gordon DeWolf

Second class postage paid at Alexandri a, Vi rginia and at addition al mailing of­ fices . Copyright © 1976 b y The Am eri­ OUR COVER PHOTO -A Buttery-Yellow Pansy by Guy Burgess. can H orticultural Socie ty . Produ ction Coord ina tion, John Simmons AN EDIIORIAL

The safety and usefulness of having plants within th e safety of plants that irre sponsible reports will be one's living space is being questioned by concerned viewed as exceptions rath er than an indictment of plan t persons. The basic problem is as old as botany-how material as a whole. to use plants for their maximum benefits while avoid­ To achieve this significant change in view, certain ing their potentially hazardous components. Most steps of education must be provided to people who plants are safe and useful sources of food, fiber, are involved in the day-to-day handling of plants. foliage, and serve as environmental beautifiers. Some Additional information must become available to the plants have traditionally been avoided because of people who administer the diagnosis and remedial their well-established toxicities. Folk lore, followed action for suspected plant toxicity. The information much later by clinical and pathological documenta­ needed consists of the following: tions have helped us to identify plants that are • Survey of literature-ranking of usefulness of dangerous. Due to the relatively low incidence of printed material. problems with plants, little recent information has been acquired. However, a healthy concern for reduc­ • Directory of research workers with access to sci­ entists with specific information on particular ing the incidence of potentially hazardous situations has caused a rebirth of efforts to determine toxicities groups of plants. of plants, particularly those used for landscaping and • Directory of Poison Control Centers-review procedures for reporting incidences, separate interior use. I have become aware of the following: circumstantial and hazardous acts. The use of the words "lethal foliage" for such • Guide for store operators (any plant outlet) to 'plants as privet and wisteria. answer questions about plant safety. • Suggested labelling statement to include infor­ Statements such as " Every garden is a death mation on safe use. trap", or "any plant, eaten in sufficient quantities, can be fatal. " • Develop questionnaires for the detection and Personalities without any training in botany are ranking of potentially hazardous plants; develop plan to obtain valid research information, inter­ being quoted as authorities on safe use of plants. pret it, and make recommendations for safe use Broadening of poison plants to include those of plant material. which traditionally have never caused any prob­ • Discover, within a species with documented tox­ lems. icity, selections or closely related species which Confusion of uses of plants containing hal­ can be used as a substitute for potentially lucinogenic compounds with those selected solely for decoration. hazardous plants. Interest in the safe use of plants has never been TASK FORCE greater. The variety of plants offered for sale has been Under the identified leadership of the American expanded to include many species that have never Horticultural Society, a task force committee is being been distributed to consumers before. They are also considered. The Society would serve as the credible being placed in locations where they become the forum for all consumers-working with the support of major space design element and are exposed to fre­ many organizations, but with the voice of the quent handling and human contact. This increases gardener-consumer. The committee would: their chances of being ingested, abused, mangled, • Identify and report potential problems of safety and destroyed. Plants are being vandalized and pil­ with plants. fered because of their value and symbolic use in the • Follow-up reports to obtain specific information community. useful for all committee members. An educational program backed with credible in­ • Serve as spokespersons to help release positive formation is needed to present the actual situation and realistic facts about plant safety to the media. before the public. Information must be drawn from all • Develop practical mechanisms to involve Federal sources, correlated, and presented in forums where and State governments in researching and pub­ every consumer will understand its full meaning, ac- lishing information about plant toxicity. 2 tual and implied. It is only when consumers have trust in Dr. Henry M. Cathey. President Go away and stay away for up to 20 days and leave the watering to American ESA Self Watering Planters. Just fill the convenient reservoir and pack your bagsl Your plants will receive the moisture they need while you get the rest you need. Our clean cut, easy care designs are available in white, black, chocolate, terracotta, in many sizes and shapes. Larger models are mounted on casters for your convenience. Have great looking plants in great looking planters all year round.

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LEFT-Reconstruction of flowers whose fossil pollen has been found and identified from the Shanidar, Iraq , graves of earl y Neanderthal cavem en of the Paleolithic period, abo ut 60,000 years ago. 1. Ya rrow, or milfoil , Achillea mil­ lefo lium L. 2. Blue-bottle, Cen taurea cyanus L. 3. Knap­ weed, Centa/.lrea scabiosa L. 4. Grape hyacinth, Mus cari botryoides L. Mill 5. Ragwort, Senecio jacobea L. 6. Marsh­ mall ow, Althaea officinalis L.-These drawings represent the common species of corresponding genera, whose oc­ currence in Iraq during late Paleolithic period appears most likely.

BELOW-Historical development of fl ower types during the evolution of angiosperms in th e las t 100 million years. -I level: amorphic fl ower types.-II level: haplomorphic types.-III level: actinomorphic.- IV level: pleomorphic. V level: stereomorphic. -VI level: zygomorphic flowers. Arrows indicate the successive fl o ral evolution in main phylogenetic groups of angiosperms (Monocots, Ranales, Sympetales, Synandrae) . Explanation see in text. Re ar­ ranged scheme fro m an earlier report (Leppik, 1972).

7 have had a concept of spirit and develop his own sense of beauty. Flowers As must have practiced funeral rites. Of natural objects, none was so well adapted for the stimulation Flowers may have Stimulated the and cultivation of aesthetic senses Beginning of Paleolithic Art A Natural in man as were flowers. It is no About the same time that the wonder, therefore, that the de­ Source of early caveman became aware of velopment of Paleolithic Art con­ floral beauty; the first elementary curred with the evolution of intel­ Beauty paintings appeared on cave walls. ligence and awareness of floral be­ These paintings belong to a time auty in the early man. Man has always adored flowers before the oldest civilization and for their mysterious beauty and The Purpose of Brightly-Colored the earliest agriculture, the Upper has used them in social and reli­ Flowers in Nature Paleolithic period at the end of the gious observances. Even so, many last continental glaciation. More Most floroecologists today agree art students were surprised when than 100 decorated caves exist in that colored perianths (sepals and R.5. Solecki discovered abundant France and Spain, and thousands petals) of flowers have evolved in pollen grains in the burial caves of of engraved or sculptured objects response to the selective activity of Neanderthal man, who lived in the have been found from the Urals to food-searching insects, which act Paleolithic period, about 60 the Atlantic. These artifacts indi­ as plant pollinators. Provided with thousand years ago. In soil sam­ cate that early man had a full range perfect senses for perception of ples taken from a cave in Shanidar, of human feelings and aesthetic re­ colors, odors, and floral symmetry, Iraq, pollen grains occurred in sponses to nature, which elevated pollinating insects, birds, and clustered groups around buried him above the animalleve!. How­ bodies, as residuum from archaic some bats can distinguish flower ever, some of these cave pictures types. In a continuous search for "bouquets" or "funeral wreaths". are supposed to be the work of better food sources, skilled pol­ From these pollens, 28 species Cro-Magnons, who are classified linators unconsciously select for were identified, predominantly more attractive colors and odors, Compositae, including: Yarrow, or as Homo sapiens, the true human thereby making very important milfoil (Achillea), blue bottle (Cen­ species. selections among flower types. In taurea) , ragwort (Senecio) , worm­ fact, the inherited instincts of pol­ wood (Artemisia), grape hyacinth linators determine which plant (Muscari) , Marsh-mallow (Al­ gets pollinated for seed production thaea) , and Ephedra . Except for and which remain without off­ Ephedra, these genera have flowers spring. of brilliant colors, such as pure white, blue, pink and yellow. Insects cannot see the translu­ The suggestion that Neanderthal cent nectar and hidden pollen from man might have brought flowering a distance as they look for food. In plants into burial caves for their this respect, their food-searching herbal and medicinal properties is habits differ radically from those of unconvincing and unprecedented. animals and man. Other animals Although most of these plants are directly view their food, but in­ known to possess such qualities, it Because Paleolithic man was sects locate it with color, odor, is difficult to imagine that primi­ mainly a hunter, wild animals form and symmetry. Their senses tive man had much knowledge or dominated contemporary wall must be more perfected than those experience with their every-day paintings. Nevertheless, there is of higher animals and man, who use. In such a case, they might also considerable evidence that edible seldom find food from flowers. have supplied the dead with fruits, fruits, seeds, and plant roots were Thus insects have been closely as­ leaves, roots or other plant parts collected for food and that flowers sociated with flowers for at least with curative properties, instead were used for decoration. 200 million years. Man has been of flowers. The more plausible Man did not and could not influ­ interested in flowers only since theory is the use of flowers for fun­ ence the evolutionary develop­ prehistoric time, and not as a food eral rites. All Shanidar cave flowers ment of wild flowers. All existing source. During this long period in­ would well fit any present-day flower types were perfected long sects obviously developed their funeral ceremony or grave decora­ before man. Early man found him­ panesthetic senses and instincts to tion. Solecki suggests that the pre­ self surrounded with brightly col­ relatively high levels in compari­ sence of flowers in burials indi- ored wild flowers, and in this envi­ son to the same instincts of other 8 cates that Neanderthal man must ronment he presumably began to animals. Higher animals, except anthophilous birds and some bats, distinguish such primitive flowers stereomorphic flowers. are disinterested in floral beauty. from common leaves of plants. VI. ZYGOMORPHIC LEVEL. Recent investigations show that II. HAPLOMORPHIC LEVEL. Zygomorphic flowers represent a close association exists between Haplomorphic flowers are charac­ the highest level of floral evolution flower form and sensory percep­ terized by hemispheric arrange­ with many particular types tion in the different classes of in­ ments of semaphylls (mostly pet­ adapted to special pollinators. In sect pollinators. It is well estab­ als) and by their simple colors such spite of their great variability lished that insects and flowers as white, yellow, greenish, or zygomorphic flowers are easily have been closely and mutually in­ pink. They are freely accessible to distinguishable from all other terrelated in evolution as recip­ all insects, but are visited mainly types. They have distinctive bilat­ rocal selective factors. The histori­ by beetles, flies, bugs, and other eral symmetry, variegated, but cal sequence of origin and de­ unskilled pollinators. Ma gnolia , harmonious, combinations of col­ velopment of flower types under Liriodendron , Nelumbo , Nymphaea , ors, and finest odors. According to the selective pressure of pollinat­ and other phylogenetically primi­ present knowledge, this superior ing insects lends support to the tive genera of the order Ranales level of floral evolution corres­ have flowers of such simple struc­ ponds to the highest stage in sen­ ture. sory development of anthophilous III. ACTINOMORPHIC LEVEL. insects. Pollinators of zygomor­ Actinomorphic flower types have phic flowers must necessarily pos­ an outspoken radiate symmetry sess the ability to distinguish with stamens, pistils and sem­ bilateral symmetry, harmonious aphylls (mostly petals) in one level. combinations of colors, and orient They are freely accessible to all vis­ themselves in a three-dimensional itors. space. There is substantial evidence Flowers Provide Food for Suste­ theory that this relationship that actinomorphic flower types nance of Insects, existed during the whole period of evolved from haplomorphic flow­ which are Needed for the Pollina­ evolution of angiosperms. ers by rearrangement of petals on tion of Field This concept resolves the mys­ one level. Imprints of actinomor­ Crops and Fruit Trees phic flowers are known from the tery of colored flowers and enables Beyond their decorative value, Cretaceous and pre-Cretaceous us to better evaluate this natural flowers and ornamentals help to periods. source of beauty. With this per­ maintain populations of important IV. PLEOMORPHIC LEVEL. spective we can judge the relative crop pollinators. Many of our gar­ Pleomorphic flower types can be sophistication of flowers in their den and field crops that need insect easily derived from actinomorphic evolutionary sequence. pollination bloom for a short flowers by reduction of the period, but require armies of in­ Evolutionary Correlation of number of petals (or semaphylls) to sects for pollination during their Flower Types with the Sensory definite lower series such as 10, 8, short blooming season. Development of Pollinators 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1. Such numeral The following six "type classes" patterns in flowers are easily dis­ are proposed for the classification tinguished by their symmetrical of flower types according to their arrangement and, therefore, are morphological characteristics, I: called "iconic or pictorial num­ amorphic; II : haplomorphic; III: bers". actinomorphic; IV: pleomorphic; V. STEREOMORPHIC LEVEL. V: stereomorphic; and VI: zy­ Three dimensional stereomorphic gomorphic. flowers retain their formal I. AMORPHIC LEVEL. Amor­ pleomorphic pattern in front, but phic flowers in the primitive stage extend a long tube or spur for nec­ Increasing flower cultivation in of development are without special tar. Such floral structure requires gardens and towns and on high­ symmetry and without particular in their pollinators an ability to ways and turnpikes, in addition to colors. They consist of an unre­ distinguish three dimensional pat­ the aesthetic appeal, provides food stricted number of stamens and terns and a long enough proboscis for pollinators and increases the pistils, frequently surrounded by a to locate and reach the concealed land productivity. Anyone can be number of bracts or discolored nectar in the depth of the flower. easily convinced of this fundamen- upper leaves. Most pollinators Only skilled pollinators of higher tal truth by taking a few minutes to need no special sensory abilities to evolutionary levels can exploit watch how many insect visitors 9 seek food from a blooming flower wild bees and many other pol­ is needed for mass plantings under bed. linators during the late fall when various climatic conditions to help Our present flower breeding and other flowers are scarce. travelers in jeopardy of " highway garden architecture is exclusively Flowers and Ornamentals for psychosis", considered to be a rea­ man-oriented, ignoring the impor­ Landscape Architecture son for highway accidents. If we tance of outdoor flowers as food After extensive extermination of consider the enormous capital in­ sources for pollinating insects. natural vegetation and wild flow- vested in the construction of Most of our fashionalbe flower cul­ highway systems and the millions tivars, such as 'Spoon' and 'Spider' of travelers who will benefit from chrysanthemums, 'Shasta' daisies, them, the idea has some economic hybrid marigolds, some tulips, basis. Highways landscaped with and pansies are inaccessible to pol­ flowers are common in European linating insects. On the contrary, states. other cultivars, such as 'Red Mis­ Conclusions chief' chrysanthemum, have a Flowers provide motifs and ma­ strong pleasant odor and a rich terial for artists, painters, poets, supply of nectar. 'Red Mischief' is writers, gardeners and landscape intensively visited by honeybees, architects for highly diversified creative work. In flowers, we find

WRITERS WHY WAIT? excellent combinations of form, PUBLISH YOUR BOOK IN 90 DAYS symmetry, harmony, brilliancy of ... and get expert editing. deS ign . manu­ fa ctu re . publicity, prom o ti on and advertising colors, and pleasant odors. All of -all unde r o ne roof at low costs. Two free books and literature give details and suc­ these properties are united into cess stories. Write o r call Oept.393 Exposition Press, Inc., 900 So. Oyster Bay well-proportioned entities. Rd., Hicksville. N.Y. 11801 (516) 822-5700 Acquaintance with wild flowers and their introduction into human ers in cities as in the areas of inten­ environment has enriched many facets of our lives with spiritual sive farming, man soon began to values and aesthetic satisfaction. long for trees, green lawns, flowers The study and use of these living, and birds. This most natural urge self-perpetuating sources of beau­ is a part of the development of ty help to maintain close contact human intellect, characteristic of and intimate communion with na­ all nations and civilizations. The ture. incentive to landscape decoration Early intelligence in man and his is in full expansion in all countries. elemen tary a bili ty to recognize The number of professional land­ beauty very likely evolved in an scape architects is increasing, and environment harmoniously or­ the demand for plant material for namented with wild flowers. La­ scenic purposes is persistent. Vegetable Factory® ter, man started to grow flowers in Further stimulus for landscape his closest surroundings. He decoration has been developing planted them in gardens, flower­ GREENHOUSES from various official and semi­ beds, parks, greenhouses, and official environment and beautifi­ window boxes and he even SAVE 244% IN cation projects. Their objectives brought them into his house. The require exploration and introduc­ present high level of human art HEATING COSTS tion of new material. Now you r dream greenhouse is not only and architecture is almost un­ possible ... it 's practical! Patented rigid Flowers for Turnpike Decoration double-pane construction , lab-tested in thinkable without flowers. The Ve rm ont. Costs less than comparable top Our rapidly expanding in­ further development of human cul­ quality sing le-pane houses, an d more than pays for itself in heat savings alone. Shatter­ terstate highway system urgently ture will equally depend on the use proof lea n-to and free-standing models, no needs landscaping. For this pur­ of this essential source of beauty. foundations, 5 yea r warranty. pose a tremendous volume of Horticulturist and gardener have Call or Write for Information flowering plants that are adapted the solemn duty to maintain and to specific environments is neces­ safeguard these living sources of P.O. Box 2235, Dept. AH-8 Grand Central Station sary. New opportunities are open, beauty for our own needs as well as New York, N.Y. 10017 both for commercial flower breed­ for those of succeeding genera­ 10 (212) 686-0173 ers and nurserymen. New material tions. IbJs me Worm Turn? R. Milton Carleton 322 North Garfield Avenue Hi nsdal e IL 60521

Perhaps no age~cy in gardening is more sacred to fact that they are found only in rich soils has confused the dedicated organic gardener than is the earth­ cause with effect and credited them with creating fer­ worm. For the past several decades, it has been tility rather than consuming it. To feed themselves, credited with being the source of all fertility, a magical they must pass relatively-undecomposed (or intact) organism which by its very presence can turn any soil, organic matter through their digestive systems. from sterile sand to stubborn clay, into rich gardener's True, in doing so they degrade complex organic loam. To destroy this Avatar with a stroke of the pen materials into simpler forms and so assist in the for­ seems brutal, yet in the end an understanding of the mation of humus. However, they exact a price, leav­ true nature of the earthworm will end an error which ing behind less fertility than was contained in the has cost gardeners more than it is worth. original complex substance. They are not alone in this The original error behind this idea can be laid upon and are far less effective than are microorganisms such the grave of no less a scientist than Charles Darwin, as fungi and bacteria. In fact, theoretically there whose book "The Formation of Vegetable Mould," is would be more nutrition (energy for these more effi­ one of the sacred books of the organic gardening cient organisms) if earthworms were not present. The fraternity. Of that error, more later. amount of organic matter passed through earthworms As every high school student of biology learns early is not insignificant: Darwin and others estimated that in his study of that discipline, only plants are capable in a year's time, in rich soils they tum over about 15 of capturing energy from the sun and storing it as tons per acre. starches and sugars-the fuel on which all living ani­ mallife depends. What is important to understand is As large as this may seem, it adds up to about that earthworms are not plants, but belong to another one-tenth of an inch per year. They do not confine kingdom, admittedly far down the ladder of evolu­ their activities to this thin upper layer, since they tion, yet at the same time a creature that consumes tunnel quite deep at times, particularly in winter. This energy (i.e. fertility) but is incapable of creating it. To credits them with more soil than is actually moved, survive, they must draw on the energy reserves al­ since at times, they must mull over the same materials ready in the soil for energy. they moved in previous years. In any case, they would As well-known to scientists, but overlooked by need from 70 to 100 years to turn over and mix as much gardeners, is that earthworms are incapable of surviv­ earth as a gardener can do in an hour with a rotary ing in low grade soils deficient in organic matter. The tiller. 11 Great claims are made for introducing artificially­ reared earthworms into poor soil. This brings up the subject of what species is sold by so-called earthworm farms. A number of earthworm species are found in American gardens, but only two are important. 'The Hrst is Lumbricus terres tris , a dark red worm found in Much is made of the ability of earthworms to bring soils high in organic matter. The second is Allolob­ up subsoil fertility. This may be true for shallow­ phora calignosa, a grayish-pink species that can sur­ rooted plants such as alyssum and petunia, but most vive with somewhat less fertility, but not in poor crop plants are capable of sending roots as deep as sands or stiff clays. most earthworms burrow. Another weakness in this theory is that their burrows are lined with a near­ In both species the body is composed of interlock­ water-tight coating of lime. In the vegetable garden, ing segments, interrupted at about one third of the this is broken as the soil is tilled, but in the perennial length by a smooth, unsegmented area called the gir­ border there is little exchange of fertility. dle. Both propagate readily in garden soils. We would Recently, there has been less talk about "hybrid expect to find one or the other species in packages earthworms" but they are still mentioned. Although supplied by earthworm farmers but this is usually not hybrids may exist, in most common species, a type of the case. parthenogenesis makes their occurrence highly un­ To speed up propagation, many earthworm farmers likely. In sexual matings, only species with identical use cultures that contain relatively high amounts of organization of the body segments can copulate. Since protein compounds added to manure or humus. As worms are hermaphrodites, mating pairs fertilize protein breaks down, it releases large amounts of each other. Or they may change sex at different stages ammonia, a substance which can be fatal to the two of growth. To add hybridity to this complex sex life common species just mentioned. For this reason, seems hardly fair. most earthworm farmers propagate the manure A great deal of fuss is made about the richness of worm, Eis enia foetida, which is able to survive am­ earthworm castings. This is a myth so absurd that it is monia. To raise worms for fishing, I have grown this difficult to understand how it got started. I have had i species under wire chicken roosts in a six inch layer of laboratory tests run on commercial packages of such I peat moss. Anyone familiar with poultry can testify castings: the " NPK" contents were lower than the ! how much ammonia a few hens can generate. Unfor­ water of a creek in our village. In one typical test of a i I tunately for the organic gardeners who buy these cul­ one-pound package, the nitrogen content was I i tured worms, they can only survive in soil that has 5/1,OOOths of an ounce. At $1.00 a pound for the pack­ I been manured recently. Once the manure has been age, that gave a cost of $200 an ounce for this one I I 12 reduced to humus, they die out. element. I ! : I I ! I JI______The low fertility value of castings is not surprising when the feeding habits of worms are studied. Even in lawns, worms prefer feeding on grasses, which they pull down into their burrows. They by-pass clov­ ers and other more nutritious organic substances. Most surprising is their feeding on fallen leaves in woodlands. They are quite selective. In brushing over the litter in a mixed planting of oaks, maples and beech I was surprised to find most of the oak leaves intact, with the beech all but gone and with only the' tough stems of maple foliage left. In an exhaustive study in Europe, scientists analyzed the floor of a mixed grove of basswood, maple, aspen and pines. Maple leaves were only eaten after basswood and aspen were stripped down to the bare petioles. Pine needles were not touched for two years. Other studies showed similar results. What is significant about these studies is that at best, fallen leaves are low in nutrient elements, con­ trary to common opinion. Before the abcission layer forms which cuts them off from the tree, all elaborated food is withdrawn and stored in the branches and trunks. Obviously, earthworms are incapable of up­ grading such low-grade foods to produce fertility. Whether you are pro- or anti-earthworm, you can add more fertility to your garden soil with an applica­ tion of 20 pounds of a good mixed fertilizer to 1,000 square feet than these wiggly pink bits of flesh can bring up from a subsoil in a century.

13 A Japanese Garden in Colorado

Color Photos: Guy Burgess Brw photos and da ta: Lorraine Burgess 202 Old Broadmoor Road Co lorado Sp rings, Colorado 80906

Working in thoughtful and careful ways, over a RIGHT-Esmiol's ' Nikko' bridge spans Ch€yenne Creek. It period of twenty years, the Morris Esmiols of Col­ is a copy of the Emperor's bridge in Nikko, Japan. orado Springs have designed and built a handsome garden inspired by Oriental design concepts. Mr. Es­ BELOW-A dry creek bed in Colorado is travers€d with a two-stone Japanese bridge. The torii gate is in traditional miol is the family's horticulturist and Mrs. Esmiol red, the pagoda replica a pathway ornament. (Lucille) the garden's designer. This spry and still ybung couple has been gardening together for over 57 years. They do have garden and household help but they remain in charge of their lifetime garden proj­ ects. They consider their preoccupation with Japanese garden theories a 'recent' enthusiasm of the last two decades, occurring with their move to their present home on a six acre plot. Their retirement garden is on a choice piece of land in a wooded valley beside a gently-moving stream, and surrounded by glorious mountain peaks. Through the years they have used the natural gifts of the land well, taking daily pleasure in each large stone in this boulder-strewn landscape, in the native cover of scrub oak (Quercus ilicifolia) , Colorado blue spruce (Pic ea pungens) , and soaring pine (Pinus ponderosa). While on world travels they discovered the merits of the theories that govern Japanese design, and realized how these principles might apply to their own garden land. They returned to Colorado bringing with them a few authentic Oriental ornaments to mark their dis­ coveries, and with this a new kinship, to set about developing their own garden treasures. Today they generously give each other credit for the success of their garden project. They have designed wisely for their retirement years, relying in large part on natural rainfall to sus­ tain the plants. Their orchard is still the joy of their lives with fruit trees espaliered onto wire fence sup- 14 ports for easy harvesting. Their plot is large but many

ARE YOU DROWNING YOUR PLANTS? of the theories they have followed to achieve low­ maintenance are applicable on far smaller plots. Entry to the garden is up a winding private road, along which the native cover has been embellished with wild currant, decorative grasses, and mountain wildings. The first distinguished feature is a Zen gar­ den where with a sparsity of elements the landscape is arranged around a grouping of handsome boulders, inset in a native ground cover, encircled by white river pebbles, and enclosed by the twisting trunks of scrub oak. At a clearing further up the mad a waiting bench is install@d. Here visitors ilre expected to ring a bell and wait in the shade until they are invited further·. Thim Plant Trivets and Pots with Legs will: as the road n@ars the house it follows a broad circle • Provide better drainage-water flows througl'J around two other grOl.!.pings or large bould!2rs. Beside pot and evaporates the hous@ a dry creek bed has been surfaced with • Prevent root ret induced by too mucn water polished river pebbl@s and planted with creeping eV­ • Give better air circulation to roots by ergreens. The creek bed is spanned by q stone bridge eliminating soggy SGil ieading to the orchard area. Another path patalleis the • Elevate pot in saUcer of waier to provide humidity to fblia@e creek bed upstream, through the torii gate and into a Three holes in large trivets make them conilert, up-side­ hon@y bee and wilding area. The traditional torii arch <:lown ; to hahging piant platforms. Lift pot off for easy care. was used beside temples as a perch for birds; offered to Hangers nGt included. gods. But with th@introduction of Buddhism the tem­ Chinese Red , Royal Blue or Clay colored Trivets are 3%" ple significance w as lost. How@ver, th@post and beam and 6" in diameter. 6 small or 4 large, one color, per pkg. $2.19. 4-4" pots, colors above, for $1.59. All orders add structure is still featured as a decorative ornament in 50 ~ postage. large gardens today. LEA,F LiFtS by GAVLEN PRODUCTS CO. All of the Esmiol paths meander out fr.om the terrac@ Box 8241 Q .. Lincoln, NE. 68501 laWn which offers a longer view of the mountain peaks, One path crosses the " Nikko" bridg€ to the far side of the ninning stream, travels along the wafer's edge and back to the house by a second crossing, The Esmiois are proud of their replica bridge, fashioned by local cabinet makers trom drawin gs, reference photos, and a miniature scale model brought back ftom Nikko, Japan, the home of the original Em­ peror's bridge. Lucille Esmiol's enthusiasm for Japanese des;ign is; durable and contagious. She advises new practition­ ers to use the natural beauties of their own environment-running water, stones, skylines, and low-maintenance native plant material. She says rocks and stones are fine, but not enough. We must study their size and relationship, one to another. Never use less than three large stones and, if you have them, use many more-like ships going out to sea. Seek the essence of your surroundings and emphasize these elements. Describe and define routes out and around your garden as tour paths for your guests. Include surprises along the way, an unexpected small sculpture, a special flowering tree, a longer garden vista. Seek out and enjoy these quiet family pleasures. They are in fact universal garden delights.

A roofed gate divides the dry stream garden from the or­ chard area. In Japan the roofs are generally made with Lorraine Marshall Burgess is the author of The Garden thatch. Here bamboo fencing and bamboo poles are com- Maker's Answer Book, published this spring by As­ 16 bined to give a similar effect. sociation Press, N. Y. ($6.95) Envir.n.enlilily '.Ieranl .Ianl Lilli Ivailalile I. Me.llerll

A~~;:~~~~~a~a"ge of Temperatures for ;'/~";;~~e 1 Below - SO F 2 - ?"O to - 40 3 - 40 fO - 30 - 3010 -20 - 20ro - to 6 - 10'0 0 7 0'0 10 8 lOro 20 9 2010 30 10 3010 40

The Educational Horticultural Committee of adds up to the necessity of using plant species the American Horticultural Society has conducted which can not Qnly survive a combination of a nation-wide survey and produced a list of environmental stress/abuse, but at the same time environmentally tolerant plants for all ten u.S. be given minimum growing conditions and hardiness zones. The 30-page compilation, titled maintenance. "Environmentally Tolerant Trees, Shrubs and Mrs. Miller emphasizes that these plants do Ground Covers", was made possible in part by a exist and we should both accept and use them. grant from the Founders' Fund of the Garden If you wish a copy of this valuable AHS publi­ Club of America. The listing was produced by the cation, fill in coupon and mail today. American Horticultural Society Plant Science Data Center. According to Mrs. Pendleton Miller, co-Chair­ man of the AHS Educational Horticultural Com­ American Horticultural Society mittee, "The plant listing is designed primarily for use by public planting agencies who must Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121 maintain areas subject to high pollution levels as YES! I would like to order the Environmentally well as heavy human and animal traffic". Mrs. Tolerant Plant List. Miller comments that: "Many plants are faced with surviving unavoidable environmental stress: o $2.95 check enclosed ___ additional copies the weakening factors of air pollution, general at $2.95 traffic abuse and pedestrians, automobiles and Name ______pets." Further, one must consider that public planting agencies must function under their own Address ______financial limitations. Funds are rarely available for providing other than minimum drainage, soil Ci ty ______State ______Zip ____ preparation or maintenance. Realistically, this ~------Morethan

If there is one extravagant, opu­ only be reached when the hands ings or ground covers. Cutting lent, self-indulgent appurtenance that planted the Golden Yarrow flowers should be grown as crop worth reviving from the great can pick all the blooms to hang up­ plants, with perennials, biennials, country places of earlier days, it is side down in the garage to dry, bulbs and annuals ruthlessly sepa­ the cutting garden. Filling one's with no one to complain that yel­ rated for €'ase of soil preparation at own house with flowers, arriving low was needed against the steel­ the appropriate times. Paths should at a friend's gate with an armful of blue of the globe thistle flowers. b€' practical-bare soil where tillers tulips, or surprising a neighbor A cutting garden should span must be run each season, wood who doesn't even know you with a the seasons; July and August are chips between perennials that doorstep basket of dahlias is the not enough. Tulips and Colum­ must be thinned frequently, hard kind of self-enrichment no gar­ bine can precede the annuals­ surface materials only where they dener should have to forego. with giant fall daisies to follow. n€'ed not be moved or muttered at. Such profligacy cannot come, The garden should be its own Such a work garden can have its sensibly, from carefully composed place, designed behind a strong own neat compost bin, pit or heap herbaceous borders, patterned space divider, so that one is not as the gardener pref€'rs, an outdoor spring pictures, or color grace ever tempted to consider it as part work table and rubbish basket as notes for the driveway or doorway of the landscape scene. It should needed without apology. An ap­ overture. Th€' kind of feeling de­ have practical rows and divided propriate storage cupboard may be scribed in the popular song line beds as vegetable gardens do, with the ultimate convenience. Gardens "flinging popcorn and pearls" can no nonsense about decorative edg- grown for production of cut flow-

Snapdragons, Zinnias, and Cosmos Pink Cascade Petunia Jan e P. McKinnon Extention Horti culturist Universi ty of Minnes ota ilion Mcrrigolds SI. Paul, Minn eso ta 55108

ers are like fine kitchens used by a the soil test says. Gardens in the matter what one reads. Local in­ serious cook-workspaces, tools East and South may need an en­ formation for fertilizing is just as and storage facilities, if well­ tirely different combination of essential as local information for organized and neatly kept, are N-P-K, lime and micro-elements planting dates. Cutting gardens handsome in themselves. from those in the Midwest and are grown for their crops, and fine To begin this kind of gardening West. Gardens where the pH is blooms on sturdy stems will need experience, select a site in full sun­ high and the rainfall is low will all the elements essential for plant shine, with good drainage and ac­ have requirements for soil prep­ growth. If soils lack available iron, cess to water. Cut flowers seen at aration with little relation to good it must be supplied. If phosphorus close view must be reasonably un­ practices for Massachusetts or Mis­ is low, fertilizer should remedy the blemished, and they ought not sissippi. If soil structure is wrong deficiency. As nitrogen leaches bring crawling visitors to the ta­ for easy cultivation to good tilth, away in frequent rains and water­ ble. Plan a calendar for planting, amendment should be made at the ing, monthly applications will be beside a list of flowers by bloom­ beginning. Perhaps the only com­ necessary for hungry plants such ing dates. Have the soil tested at a mon denominator nationwide is as dahlias or petunias. professional laboratory. Land­ the need for incorporating organic This is not to say that all good grant universities in most states matter at first tilling and during cutting flowers need the same soil will perform this service for a mod­ each year's cultivation, unless one conditions, as every experienced est fee. puts a cutting garden in a peat bog. gardener knows. There is no sub­ And next, pay attention to what Nothing else can be assumed, no stitute for studying requirements

Orange Rocket Snapdragons 'County Fair' Zinnias Ph otos: Guy Burgess The most beautiful of plants one selects, and grouping enough spring perennials to wake roses on the block, those of like needs together so that the house before July. Some flow­ appropriate cultural practices can The most magnificent ers in the borders have enough be managed without difficulty. mums you've ever known . blooms to pick a few without di­ Marigolds and Zinnias needing minishing the spring effect. Vio­ The healthiest. most thriving modest amounts of nitrogen dur­ las, Coral Bells, Bearded Iris, garden you 've ever grown. ing the sum!ller should not be Feverfew and Columbine always planted next to Chrysanthemums seem to spare blossoms without Black Leaf 40 being continuously fed. Trollius, impoverishment. But masses of GARDEN SPRAY grown almost wet, cannot be in the Shasta Daisies and Peach bells NATURE'S OWN NATURAL INSECTICIDE same square with Iceland Poppies, ought to be left for their once a year ready to rot at the first hint of sog­ display, with a back-up supply giness. ready for cutting. Peonies are a Within these mentioned re­ special case; expert flower arrang­ • BLACK LEAF 40 kills aphids and si m ilar strictions, there are blessedly ers often like different cultivars sucking insects with 2-way action - by con­ tact and by fumes. Ki ll s ants Qut -of-doors. many freedoms. Cutting gardens from those favored by garden de­ • BLACK LEAF 40 has bee n helping garden­ can have any selection one likes signers. 'Walter Faxon', a spark­ ers attain beautiful results for ove r 90 years without the need to grow single • BLACK LEAF 40 is a nalurally occurring, ling coral-pink double variety, is biodeg raaable insecticide that remains "on colors or blend gentle drifts. Mixed beautiful and long lasting indoors. target " and dissipates without leaving harm- ful residue . • BLACK LEAF 40 is versalile Cactus-flowered Zinnias can af­ 'Krinkled White', the long-popular · . . use it effectively on ro ses, gladioli, mums, ford different color combinations single, is airy enough to blend si milar flowers: sh rubs, vegetables, fruit trees and evergreens . • BLACK LEAF 40 is non­ for every room in the house. with other flowers or to use in caustic and does not injure foliage. Does not Neither need one worry about al­ bouquets of moderate size. leave unsighlly residue . • BLACK LEAF 40 is compatible with standard sp ray mate ri als for ternation and combination of Every cutting garden needs a combination spraying. Econo mical to use. spikes and round-headed flowers few peony plants to strip at will­

~ Servmg Amef/can Gardeners or hiding stakes or opening blank someone might have a wedding! ~ With Quality PrOducts Since 1879 spaces to replant a section for later One end of the perennial row Black Leaf Products COInpany 667 N. Siale Street Elgm. Illinois 60120 season production. The enclosing should include a few clumps of As­ fence or hedge sets aside the tilbe, not only for the plumy work-space, and inside it, hor­ blooms before annual flowers are ticulture rules. available, but also for its fine Flowers chosen for a cutting gar­ foliage to use all summer. This sec­ den should be a personal list, but tion will need extra watering, and here is a sampling of ideas to can include a few Spuria and Sibe­ suggest a collection more expan­ rian Iris, Globeflower and Swamp sive than the annual list in seed Milkweed for its long-lasting pink catalogs. Further, so much recent clusters. Another row where divi­ attention has been given to sions are made more frequently shorter, stockier cultivars of famil­ should include plants of Shasta iar bedding plants used for land­ Daisies just for the house. The first For every gardener scape purposes that one may forget blooms are like the king berries on how hard it is to arrange Thum­ strawberries, biggest and finest, there is a perfect JANCO belina Zinnias or Floral Carpet and one hardly can cut them from a ... including the new Snapdragons. drift in the terrace border. A mass ,__ low-cost Belair For early spring, when it is easy of Peachbells supplies clear blue or --~...... Janco all-aluminum pure white for the time of mock­ ~';' ~ greenhouses fit any to have branches of apple blossoms pi{ ~I site and every bud­ or lilacs cut discreetly from land­ orange and shrub rose sprays. Per­ ~ II i get. From the Win­ ennial sections of the cutting gar­ .rR ~ dow Garden to the scape plantings, Darwin Hybrid 'Ii ~I Chesapeake there is Tulips ready for picking in a cut­ den should be planted the same ~ . a Janco to fit your -- specifications. Now ting row are the most exciting way one plants asparagus and there's Belair - same selection in the spring boutique. rhubarb in the vegetable garden­ fine quality but standard sizes save you money. Write for FREE catalog. These tulips are big, splashy when to grow in their own spaces with­ AGENT OPENINGS: a few select areas they open, large as two folded out interfering with the manage­ need representatives. Write Janco Sales ment of the annual plants. Manager. hands when they close. Dover, JANCO GREENHOUSES Gudoshnik, Jewel of Spring-all There are annuals for bean pots Dept. AH-8 are lovely. on the kitchen table, and annuals J. A . Nearing Co., Inc. 20 10788 Tucker St ree t A cutting garden should have for silver bowls set on pastel linen. Beltsville, Md. 20705 301-937-3300 the unusual 'Envy', a cool green used with great pleasure at sum­ mer flower shows. 'Polynesian' is a free-flowering, coral colored vari­ ety; 'Nectarine' is a newer one, a coral-pink Fantasy type. Not all summer effects are made with Zinnias and Marigolds, how­ ever. One hostess prides herself on her ephemeral bowls of Petunias in soft colors to compliment the decor of her reception rooms. Petunias must be picked with care, fresh for the occasion, and handled gently from garden to display. 'Cham­ pagne' is an especially handsome grandiflora, with five-inch ruffled blooms on clean green foliage. This petunia can resist summer dis­ eases while weaker varieties die beside it. The delicate Petunia fragrance is another reason to grow a row in the cutting garden. Fragrance is the first reason for growing 'Marine' Heliotrope or the delightful 'Sweet Sultan'. Either of these flowers tl1ck into a bouquet to perfume a room with the scent of Godetia-A fall annual and old fashioned garden fa­ summer. Sensation Nicotianas are vorite; also known as 'Satin Flower'. notoftenthoughtofascutflowe~, but they are graceful additions. There are annuals for unusual new bouquets. ' Primrose Climax' is Nicotiana has the added remarka­ combinations for contemporary especially pretty for its creamy yel­ ble quality of being extremely re­ room design, and flowers to echo low color, more subtle and delicate sistant to cool nights in early fall, old nosegays. There are brilliant than most Marigolds. so that there are flowering tobacco plumes and delicate spikes, the Zinnias offer almost every color spikes to add to last pickings. choices are as exciting as a child's variation known to floriculture and Snapdragons have long been Christmas dreams. sizes suitable for use in tea cup ar­ summer favorites, and to grow the Zinnias and Marigolds may be rangements to wedding reception dramatic Rocket Snaps one must the most familiar cut flowers for centerpieces, as was done by a be prepared to stake each spike summer harvest and recent intro­ sophisticated hostess when she carefully. It is worth the effort for ductions have widened the choices made enormous bouquets of white largest and finest flowers, but the from both. Jubilee Hybrid Series zinnias with other white flowers Carioca series offers a similar color Marigolds have four inch blooms from her home garden. The stun­ range on stockier, many-spiked in shades from yellow to orange at ning cactus flowered F-1 Hybrids, plants without staking. Flower midsummer. Plants are about two 'Carved Ivory' and 'Wild Cherry', stalks will be shorter, 8 to 12 feet high, but stems are long deserve their popularity as cut inches, but charming on a smaller enough for picking. 'Happy Face' flowers, but seed is often hard to scale. The newer open-flowered is an even earlier blooming hybrid, come by. The Zenith mixture hybrids, Wedding Bells mixture of the same hedge type growth makes it possible to have the whole and Madame Butterfly, are ruffled habit, with large flowers. The tall­ color range of these five-inch and frilly, a new form in Snapdra­ est and longest stemmed hybrid blooms on their strong stems. gon colors. Marigolds are the Climax Hybrids, 'Scarlet Ruffles' and 'Pink Ruffles' There are no blues in Snapdra­ with blooms to five inches. These are the first of a new series of the gons, Marigolds, or Zinnias, but usually flower later than hedge pumila (intermediate) size, with cutting gardens can include two of types, but bloom is profuse and excellent resistance to mildew, the the fine blue Salvias.'Royal Blue' showy enough to make impressive zinnia-spoiler. Another favorite is Continued on page 32 21 Understanding

Thomas W. W hitaker Plant Geneticis t P.O. Box 150, La Joll a, CA 92038

The lettuce plant is poorly un­ its culture spread to Greece, Italy, tuce is divided into 4 main types; a derstood even by many experi­ and other countries bordering the fifth type, the so-called "Chinese enced gardeners. Here are some Mediterranean. Lettuce was read­ Stem" lettuce is used for the thick, little-known facts that will increase ily accepted, and became popular enlarged, edible flower stalk, but the appreciation and enjoyment of in Greek and Roman cultures. at present is relatively unimpor­ those who grow and consume this From the Mediterranean, lettuce tant in this country. Seed of the best of all salad plants. spread rapidly to Western Europe, varieties listed can be obtained Commercial lettuce production and reached the Americas as early from many reliable seed firms. in the U.S.A. is truly in the cate­ as 1565. Sixteen varieties were gory of " big business" . In 1973, the listed in McMahon, an American Leaf Lettuce-varieties in this last year for which figures are category produce a rosette, with a available, the crop had a value of loose bunch of leaves. It never $277,320,000, and was planted on forms a head. Leaves can be har­ 219,080 acres . The volume was vested as the plant continues to 48,054,000 cwt., which works out grow. If harvested in this manner, to a prod uction of over 400 railroad the gardener will have a succession carloads daily; truly a prodigious of fresh, palatable leaves over a number of salads are consumed by lengthy period, perhaps as long as the American public. a month. Varieties of this type are It is indeed a poor vegetable gar­ most satisfactory because they can den that does not include at least be raised successfully when temp­ one or more varieties of lettuce. For eratures are too high for culture of the backyard gardener, lettuce is other varieties. easy to grow on well-drained, rea­ In the bins of supermarkets, leaf sonably fertile soil. Furthermore, it lettuce is usually represented by u will produce an abundance of tasty Prizehead, a variety with a tinge of ci c: a leaves rapidly, with minimum ef­ red, normally around the margins c;, c: fort. For this reason, it is an emi­ of the leaf. The red pigment makes :;: '" nently satisfactory item for most an attractive plate decoration for 3:'" vegetable gardens. Lettuce comes meat or other dishes. Much of the ":0 o from a large group of plants gener­ lettuce grown under glass or plastic :;; 0> "C ally known as the Compositae or seedsman, in his first catalogue belongs to the leaf type. Another W "C Sunflower family . A quick look at published in 1806. The astonishing popular variety used for this pur­ c: '" its small, yellow flowers estab­ proliferation of varieties at an early pose is Grand Rapids. 'c'" . ~ lishes its affinity with the sunflow­ date in the U.S. is documented by Butterhead-this type of lettuce ;;

er, dandelions, chicory, tarweed the New York Agricultural Exper­ is distinguished by the soft, oily or c: and other Composites. iment Station Report of 1885. Here buttery texture of the leaves. The 'E'" '"0> Modern lettuce was derived 87 varieties are described. leaves are positioned in a tight , ~ c: from a species indigenous to the A gardener who understands the ball, but do not overlap to form a " '"~ Mediterranean Basin. The evi­ classification of lettuce can do a true head. Varieties of this type t dence at hand suggests that lettuce much better job of selecting var­ when grown under favorable con­ m" x was first domesticated in Egypt, ieties for specific locations and ditions, have extremely high qual­ :;;:" probably for the seeds which were seasons. With this rationale in ity. The leaves are soft and tender, Eo .I;; 22 used as a source of oil. From Egypt, mind, we learn that cultivated let- with excellent flavor. Bibb lettuce 0..

of bunched and overlapping Types Representative Varieties leaves. The plant at this stage is far different in appearance from one 1. Leaf Prizehead, O ak Leaf, Black-Seeded Simpson, that is sexually mature and produc­ Grand Rapids, Slobolt ing flowers and seed. Lettuce, like 2. Butterhead Big Boston, White Boston, Bibb, Buttercrunch, several other vegetables, has two May King different maturities, vegetative or 3. Cos or Rom aine Parris Island, Valmaine, Paris White, market maturity, and sexual or Dark Green seed maturity. 4. Crisphead Empire, Climax, Vanguard, Calmar Obviously, the gardener is primarily interested in market maturity. These stages (maturities) follow each other in sequence, but in the butterhead category is the the tossed salad, the Romaine va­ for the same plant, may be as much " Rolls Royce" of salad plants. rieties are unexcelled. as two months apart. Under nor­ Unfortunately, butterhead vari­ Crisphead-the commercial let­ mal growing conditions, most but­ eties require optimum conditions tuce industry is based on varieties terhead, Romaine, and crisp head of culture if they are to produce an of the crisphead type. They are varieties do not immediately pro­ attractive product. They are ex..: characterized by the almost brittle duce a seed stem following market trernely sensitive to excessively: character of the leaves, and a firm maturity. Production of a visible high and low temperature. For head. The head is almost spherical, seed stem and differentiation into example, a sudden elevation of and is formed by the overlapping, temperature, combined with high tightly folded leaves of a rosette. It humidity, can poduce tipburn that is often more than 6 inches in may destroy the crop. Likewise, ' diameter and very solid. The de­ they are damaged by low tempera­ velopment of this structure is tures that would not harm other probably the single most impor­ varieties. Finally, the soft, tender tant feature of the crisphead type. leaves are easily bruised. Hence, The amateur is well advised to they require careful handling at omit crisphead varieties from his harvest, and are not adapted to garden because of exacting re­ long distance transportation. quirements for soil, fertilizer, However, for the gardener with a photoperiod, and moisture. A gourmet taste butterhead varieties great deal of experience is required have much to offer. to successfully produce a crop of an inflorescence may b@ delayed crisphead lettuce. For the gardener for a time after market maturity, with limited space, varieties in this depending upon environmental class occupy too much space and condi tions. are difficult to grow. Furthermore, At seed maturity, the lettuce when home-grown, they are likely plant is a leafy-stemmed, branch­ to be less rewarding at the table ing, many-flowered annual. The than other varieties. small, yellow, perfect flowers are The crisphead types are the arranged in a loose panicle, with a workhorses of the lettuce trade. flattened top. The stems when cut When found in the bins of super­ produce an abundance of milky markets, head lettuce may not be juice. as attractive as butterhead or ro­ The leaf varieties, like those in Romaine or Cos-produce maine, but it is crisp, clean and other groups, also form a rosette, loose, elongated, loaf-shaped dependable. With a good salad but immediately produce a seed heads with an upright growth dressing, a delectable dish usually stem. As the stem elongates, the habit. The spatulate leaves tend to results. younger leaves are harvested for over-lap, and are formed into a table use. The stem continues to loose head. The leaves are coarse Maturity elongate, producing fresh leaves with a heavy mid-rib, but they are When we look at the young let­ for a continuous harvest. sweet, tasty and of good quality. tuce plant, we see a rosette of I hope I' ve interested you Normally, they lack the bitter closely grouped, flattened leaves. enough to try some home-grown flavor sometimes associated with As the plant approaches market lettuce. Plant some in late August 24 other varieties. As an ingredient of maturity, a head appears m ade up and enjoy a fall crop. • Pe~ brSummerBloom Herbe rt C. Fordham Ex tension Horticulturis t Suburban Experimen t Station Waltham , Mass. 02154

In the perennial garden as wi th two to three week period of bloom, easily grown, it is unlike a few of most large landscape plantings it will require a number of varieties its weedy relatives in that it does there is usually a certain amount of to achieve the desired effect. not become overly possessive in trial and error necessary to find Keep a watchful eye on plant the garden. those plants which are going to species which have been recently Achillea ptarmica var. 'Angel's thrive under given conditions. In introduced to the garden. What Breath' shows little if any similarity order to lengthen the list of plant may have been a well-behaved to A. 'Coronation Gold'. Its loose species to be included it is often plant in one situation could be­ clusters of pure white double necessary, and yet practical, to come an overpowering menace flower heads are borne on 2-foot alter the soil to meet the needs of under new circumstances making high stems during July and Au­ specific groups of plants. It is al­ endangered species out of less vig­ gust. The foliage is moderately fine most routine practice to add some orous favorities. in texture. As with most Achilleas, form of organic matter to improve There are a number of good can­ this one is easily grown and trou­ the soil structure, and to correct the didates worth trying for extended ble free. Although a little more ag­ pH and nutrient levels. Greater periods of summer bloom in the gressive than some species it sel­ limitations may be imposed by the garden. It should be noted that the dom becomes weedy. Achilleas amount of sun or shade, tempera­ selection should be based not only have excellent keeping qualities as ture extremes and occasionally on the color of the flower or quality cut flowers. drainage problems. of bloom, but on the foliage effect Chrysanthemum maximum­ There are substantial lists of reli­ as well. Various shades of green Shasta Daisy is a must for any per­ ably hardy, long-lived perennials and foliage textures are important ennial garden. A striking effect can which can contribute to an easily points of interest in any garden. be had by using clumps or masses maintained garden. Large seg­ Some of the following perennials of these pure white daisy-like ments of such lists are composed of deserve prime consideration: flowers repeated throughout the the long-time favorites such as Achillea hybrid 'Coronation Gold' perennial border to contrast with peonies, iris, oriental poppies, bears large convex umbels of the vertical lines of such plants as bleeding heart and delphinium. bright yellow flowers atop rigid delphinium, veronica and fox­ Most bloom during May and June 3-foot stems. Its foliage is a soft glove. before the heat of summer. gray-green and has a finely dis­ To assure continued bloom A great deal of thought must be sected fern-like texture. The ex­ through the summer, select such given to planning a perennial gar­ tended period of bloom from June varieties as' Aglaya', a large double den in order to have it provide con­ through August ranks it high with white frilled flowered type which tinuous color throughout the summer blooming perennials. Full grows about 2 feet high and growing season. Since the majority sun and a well drained soil are its blooms through most of the sum­ of perennial species have only a primary requirements. Although mer, or 'Mt. Shasta', which is fully 25 double and has a high, white crested center. If the more typical single flowered type is preferred, try the very large ever blooming varieties 'Victor' or 'Mark Riegel'. Shasta daisies thrive in a rich, well-drained soil. Although full sun is preferred, they will tolerate light shade. To insure vigorous growth, divide the clumps at least every second year. Monarda didyma 'Granite Pink' is one of the loveliest of the Bee Balms and easiest to combine with other summer blooming perennials. The large flower heads set atop 30-inch stems. The color is best described as a soft but bright rose pink. Its creeping root stock may have a tendency to move into the territory of adjacent plants, but seldom to the point of 'taking over'. Being somewhat shallow rooted, Bee Balm is easily weeded out if neces­ sary. This handsome member of the mint family tolerates a variety of soil conditions as well as light shade. To keep plants in vigorous growing condition, divide and reset clumps every 2-3 years. Geranium sanguineum var. prostratum-Cranesbill will pro­ duce compact 12-inch high plants and does not have the tendency toward legginess which many of the hardy geraniums acquire as the summer progresses. This little charmer has an abundance of clear pink flowers with dark red pen­ ciled veining and can be expected to bloom throughout most of the summer. A well drained, loose soil seems to suit the hardy geraniums best and if given full sun they give ABOVE-'Stardom Masterpiece' mum is a daisy-like pink years of enjoyment with a min­ with butter-yellow centers, blooming indoors or out in the imum of Gare. late summer-fall. Inula ensifolia-Sunray Flower is BELOW-'Spring Song' Columbine-hybrid giant one of those rare mid-summer ABOVE RIGHT-Sunlight drama in the Felicity Ann daylily. blooming perennials suitable as an BELOW RIGHT-Double Shasta daisies. edging plant or for the rock garden. This delightful small hardy peren­ nial produces a compact mound­ like habit of growth about 15 inches tall. From June into August the plants bear bouquets of minia­ ture golden yellow sunflowers. 26 Inula is not very demanding in its soil requirements other than good drainage and moderate fertility. To keep plants in top growing condi­ tion provide a sunny location and divide the clumps about every 3 years. Penstemon ba l'batus v al'. 'Ro se Elf-is among the more reliably hardy penstemons for New En­ gland gardens. Its deep salmon­ rose tubular flowers are produced on 15-18" spikes from June through August. For a striking color effect, try a companion planting of Nepeta mussini . Penstemon is somewhat more sensitive about its growing conditions than many perennials. A loose, friable soil is preferred and above all good drainage is es­ sential to avoid winter-killing. Al­ though tolerant of light shade, sturdier plants are produced where they receive at least a half day of sun. Physosteg ia v irginiana v ar . 'Summer Snow' is a clear white selection of the old familiar rosy­ pink False Dragonhead. Its tubular flowers are closely set spikes borne on rigid 24-30 inch stems which bloom from July through August. This easily grown plant may help fill the need for reliable bloom dur­ ing the mid-summer months. Al­ though less invasive than its more vigorous pink counterpart, it may need watching in some situations. Platy codon grandiflorum mariesii produces large, violet blue, open, cup-like flowers on 15 to 18 inch stems. Platycodons have a long period of bloom extending from late June into early September. Al­ though they require a little more mer blooming perennials, in par­ height may vary from 18 inches to 4 care in getting started, once estab­ ticular the hemerocallis and lilies. feet and the season of bloom from lished they are trouble free. The Both groups of plants have long June into September. plants have thick fleshy roots, the lists of noteworthy introductions With the true li~ies a similar crowns of which should be just developed in recent years. miracle has happened . Recent barely covered. A loose, well Modern daylilies scarcely re­ breakthroughs in hybridizing drained soil is almost essential and semble the old familiar coppery­ have brought about a whole new they are tolerant of light shade. orange Hemerocallis fulva still spectrum of colors, shapes and Since new growth is late starting in found growing in ancient gardens sizes of flowers plus disease resis­ the spring, clumps should be care­ and occasionally naturalized along tance. Varieties more beautiful fully marked to avoid damaging the roadside. Color choices now than ever are now within reach of the crowns. range from intense reds through every backyard gardener and spe­ Some very noticeable omissions pastel pinks, soft yellows, lavender cialty catalogs should be consulted have been made among the sum- and melon tones. Selections in for the latest introductions. 27 YauCan Grow YaurOwn Giraffe Donald Wyman 59 Jericho Road Wes ton, MA 02193

While visiting gardens in Great Britain orie frequentiy sees in­ terestihg objects of topiary work, shrubs sheared into geometric fig­ ures, or ahimals or ships. In the past, especially ih Etlrope, this was a fci scirtatirig hobby for hundreds of years. Today, there are not many examples of the art left. Norm\l.lly the American gardener is too much in a hurry to take the time neces­ sary to painstakihgly prune and shear shrubs into specific figures. Yet, it can be done. If you have patience, you can coax and force a plant to grow in a certain way to portray a giraffe, fox , man, ship or even some geometrical figure. the resulting object is often humor­ ously interesting. The only problem is that it can' t be moved around to another place in the garden-it is always there-hence it should not be in a too conspicuous place. Then, too , the individual who does the shear­ ing must have a good eye for creat­ ing the proper shape in the right proportion. There is nothing quite as distracting as a figure that has grown awry. A geometric figure like a pyramid, or a round ball on top of a square base, should be exactly congruent on all sides. The Japanese have acquired an interest in bonsai, and indeed this is proving popular to a number of 28 Americans. It requires painstaking California Privet, " Green Animals" at Portsmouth, Rhode Island care in the shaping of the plant. Shaping topiary figures is also an art requiring a knowledge of plant growth. Topiary effects are best obtained with box, yew, privet, arborvitae, incense cedar, Eugenia, pitto­ sporum and rosemary. Large­ leaved plants are not usually satis­ factory. Privet grows fast but does not show upwell in the win ter. Box and yew are better choices. They retaih their foliage all year. They also grow faster than hemlock and spruce and do not have the unfor­ tunate habit of easily dying when they are slig,htly broken or when the wire holding the branch to the support becomes too tight. A solid geometric shape like a tube, column, ball, pyramid or variations thereof, is the easiest. Figures of animals and people are extremely difficult to shape. In order to obtain them, one must work carefully for years to get just the right proportions. If the figures Eng lish Yew at Crathes Castl e, Scotl and are large, they must be firmly at­ form to get them growing in the an essential prerequisite of a good tached to a foundation of pipes or right direction. Certainly if the plant for topiary work. Rosemary stakes properly hidden on the in­ animal is large and only h as two and small-leaved English ivy are side of the object. feet on the ground, a permanent frequently used for small topiary Privet, especially California scaffold should be made. A firm indoor figures. Sometimes, % or privE?t, grows faster than the ever­ basic structure is usually a neces­ 1/2 inch wire mesh is moulded into greens ahd is the easiest shrub to sity. appropriate figures, and the plants lise. A dead or brokE?n branch can Small shapes can be moulded are trained to grow over them. be quickly replaced by properly out of chicken wire. One simply For those who wish to try this training q new one. Evergreens are has to shear the branches just old-fashioned art it is helpful to much more difficult, but of the ev­ above the frame. Be careful about first observe what can be done ergreens, yew is probably the best tying the branches to the frame. with topiary figures. Geometric to train in topiary objects. One Ties too tight can easily girdle the shapes can be seen in the gardens should remember that there are branch and cause it to die or break. at Williamsburg, Virginia, and at several varieties of YE?W, some tall Ties should be made loosely with Longwood Gardens, Kennett and upright, some wide and heavy string and inspected every Square, Pennsylvania. Some of the branching, others low. Please year or so. If possible avoid the use best animal figures (made of don't contemplate forming a of wire. Pruning or shearing can be California privet) to be seen any­ giraffe out of a low-growing dwarf done any time except in the early where are at "Green Animals" , variety. fall. Late pruning may force new Portsmouth, Rhode Island. This is Study the eventual form desired. growth which will not have suffi~ an old estate now operated by the For instance, if it is to be a horse, cient time to mature before freez­ Preservation Society of Newport are all feet to be on the ground? If ing temperatures kill it. County, and open to the public (for so, then one starts with four plants. Large-leaved plants like rho­ a nominal fee) from mid June to the If, on the other hand, the horse is to dodendrons are too coarse for end of September. be rearing on its haunches, then topiary. Rhododendrons do not Growing topiary figures takes only two plants are needed. Make a easily send out new buds and extreme care, and many long hours rough outline of the animal desired branches wherever they are of careful shearing. Most American out of heavy wire or pipes, and tie pruned as do privet and yew. The gardeners like to observe such the first forming branches to this ability to form new buds easily is figures-when others grow them. 29

The RockyMolUltain Columbine William G. Gambill, Jr. Direc tor, Denver Botanic Gardens Denver, Colorado

Perhaps you have had the expe­ vendors of wild flower seeds, par­ with ferns, polygonatums, or other rience while hiking along a shady ticularly in the western part of the wild plants. They do not need con­ trail somewhere in the Rockies of country. Gardening friends should spicuous floral competition. These coming upon a moderately tall not be overlooked as a good are regal creatures which like to plant with fern-like leaves, nestled source, too. The seed germinates reign in solitary splendor. It is best in dappled shade against the pale rather slowly (three to four weeks) to keep them away from other col­ trunk of a quaking aspen, bearing and requires cool temperatures for umbines, for they will hybridize regal, long-spurred flowers with this process. Seed sown in the freely with many species. Flowers heavenly blue petals contrasting ground or in a cold frame in early of hybrid plants, of course, will strikingly with snowy white sepals spring will produce plants which often be quite inferior to those of and anthers of gold. Possibly you generally will not blossom until the the pure form, and plants produc­ caught your breath with surprise at following season . If the seeds are ing them should be weeded out the sheer elegance and grace of sown in the greenhouse in Oc­ immediately. If there are other va­ these flowers growing against a tober, by the following spring the rieties of columbines in nearby gar­ background which seemed almost plants will be six to eight inches dens, hybrids are almost sure to planned for them. You may have tall. Then they can be set outdoors, appear, but if the parent plants are knelt down to examine more and they will bloom that same sea­ kept from setting seed, this prob­ closely and drink in deeply the son. Seedlings should be. placed lem can be con trolled. majesty of the Rocky Mountain nine inches to a foot apart. Indi­ Gardeners living in or near the columbine, Aquilegia caeru lea vidual plants appear to live on the Rockies are fond of maintaining James, the much-admired state average not more than three years. pure beds of this long-spurred flower of Colorado. This poses no great problem in beauty, and have found that this is Can this wildling with all its continuity if the plants are allowed relatively easy to do if the plants charm be brought into the garden to seed themselves. are allowed to produce seed freely. where you can enjoy it yearly A well-drained sandy loam, Older plants will die away, but without having to seek it in its na­ with plenty of organic matter to in­ new seedlings are always spring­ tive haunts? The answer is-most sure a moderate but constant soil ing up to take their places. Rocky certainly. Like many others of the moisture content is best for grow­ Mountain columbines can be used forty-odd species of Aquilegia, the ing. Garden soil for these plants very effectively with other garden Rocky Mountain columbine can be should contain considerable plants such as thalictrums, Sibe­ grown fairly easily in cultivation. amounts of compost or well-rotted rian irises, wax begonias, varieties To maintain it permanently re­ barnyard manure. Use of a mulch, of Impatiens and Viola and other quires an understanding of its especially in the dryer regions of plants which prefer a moderately growing requirements, and its life the West, such as dry leaves, hay, shaded habitat. The charm of this cycle. straw, pine needles, wood chips or columbine is not lost totally even Most columbines can be grown even sawdust during the growing when it is deliberately mixed with from Hardiness Zone 3 southward season will keep the soil cool and numerous quite different varieties into Zones 8 and 9. A. caerulea, moist. During the winter it will from other parts of the world to being a native of the cooler western protect the crown and new leaves. produce a rainbow-hued bed of mountain regions, fares better as a These plants need considerable sparkling aquilegjas. garden plant in the more northerly shade, particularly of the type cast If you are successful in growing part of this range-from southern by trees with a canopy that permits the Rocky Mountain columbine, Canada into the northern and cen­ passage of a fair amount of sun­ and you really can be, the unusual tral states, and southward along light. In the absence of such shade beauty of its flowers will be reward the Rockies into New Mexico. It Rocky Mountain columbines enough. When a cluster of them is has long been a favorite rock gar­ should be grown on the north side enjoyed, it is difficult to escape the den plant in the northeastern of a building, or on the shady side feeling that nature has endowed United States as well as in England of a large rock or garden wall. this plant with a sylvan charm and Scotland. Plants of A. caerulea are seen to which surely reflects the splendor Rocky Mountain columbine excellent advantage when placed and serenity of the mountain seed can be obtained from many in groups in a woodland garden heights where it is at home. 31

Columbine, Yankee BoX Basin Continued from page 21 More Than Zinnias, Earlier Than Marigolds and 'Catima'! a French introduc­ the length of the day, and northern tion, hold color well and flower Squeezo Strainer. The best of the hand juicers with gardeners must choose those bred no plastic parts to stain , retain odors or lose thei r v igorously all summer. Plants for the long summer days and short shape . Makes tomato purees. juices. sauces & pastes . No peeling needed . skin and seeds get must be started early indoors in nights. Richard Widmer of the separated from pulp . Also makes apple sauce , vegetable juices , jellies , natura lly fresh baby and climates where frost occurs, since University of Minnesota, along diet foods and much morel $26 .50 (please add these plants are perenni. als in mild with other northern breeders, has $2 .50 for shipp ing and handling) FREE! Our new Garden Way. Country Kitchen climates. introduced many beautiful selec­ Catalog of hard-to-find food preservi ng too ls and kitchen utensils . Send name and address to : Another cooler for summer tions for the far north. 'Golden GARDEN WAY CATALOG bouquets is the popular Bells of Ire­ Fantasy', 'Minn-White', an d the Dept. 64 45 8 land, and a combination of its older deep red 'Vulcan' are three, 47 Maple St., Burlington, Vermont 05401 green bells with spikes of blue Sal­ Gladiolus and Dahlias have their via suggests a temperature drop at champions and specialists. Con­ a summer luncheon table. Annual sider the smaller blossomed kinds, Poinsettia, Mexican Fire Pl~ nt , is easy to use in home-sized ar­ BY POPULAR DEMAND an excellent green foliage annual rangements . 'Snow White' is a subtly sparked with red. charming small Dahlia, flowers model 311 like big white daisies with golden Greenhouse Vent Motor Nothing is more contrasting, however, than the flaming Celo­ center, blooming by the dozens on sias. 'Forest Fire' is taller than each plant. The Minature Glad­ 'Crusader', ' both a shouting red, iolus are becoming more popular and 'Golden Triumph' is taller than each year, and are so fool proof that 'Golden Torch'. Choose height to it is worth investing in the two suit your taste, and remember that 1976 All-America Selections, REPLACEMENT AND SERVICE on all the Celosias make fine dried 'Lambkin' (white) and 'Rudolph' greenhouse awtomatic ventilation motor model 311, previously of­ flowers if picked when the blooms (red), along with other favorites fo r fered by Lord and Burnham and are just coloring. color choice. Janco, now available from origi­ nal manufacturer. Unless the gardener has freedom One last suggestion for the well­ also of fields and roadsides on many tempered cutting garden: find a AUTOMATIC VENTILATION SYS­ summer days, a cutting garden corner for a patch of the pretty TEM complete with 2 model 311 motors, aluminum mounting hard­ should include flowers grown for daisy with the ugly name, Chrysan­ ware, 40-90F thermostat and de­ drying. The native perenials Pearly themum uligin osum , Giant Fall tailed mounting instructions, for 5&6 section greenhouses. Extra Everlasting, Golden Yarrow, Chi­ Daisy. One autumn day these motors required for larger green­ nese Lantern, Lunaria, Strawflow­ flowers will light up the fading houses, consult us. er and Globe Amaranth make the border as dramatically as a theatri­ GLEASON-AVERY DIV. cal spot--cool, white, yellow cen­ 45 AURELIUS AVE. Thanksgiving house a happy AUBURN, NEW YORK 13021 scene. If a fence surrounds the gar­ tered, to hold the summer for r:------'l den, plant some ornamental another week or two. If they are in GLEASON -AVERY DIV., 45 AURELIUS AVE. AUBURN , NEW YORK 13021 gourds, trellis space is too useful to the cutting garden, you can pick o replacement motor 12%" rack $69.75 lose. them for the bean pot along with o replacement motor 18" rack $73.60 None can forget the favorite the last of the Monarch Daisies and o automatic vent kit complete $179.50 three that come first to mind for Pacific Calendulas. A sprig or two I en clo se 0 check 0 m.o. lavish bouquets. Gladiolus, Dah­ of Dark Opal Basil will season the add 7% ta x for N.Y. s tate add $5.00 per unit shipping & handling lias and Chrysanthemums share a mixture for a kitchen bouquet.

NAME~ ______need for fertile soil, full sunshine, Beyond these practical features,

5T. ______faithful watering in dry weather, cutting gardens should be per­ and careful pest control. " Best va­ sonal. Each gardener knows the rieties" change from garden to color of summer curtains in the garden and section to section. house, patterns in the floors , 32 Chrysanthemums are sensitiv e to depths of old glass pitchers and Con tinued on page 43 Every gardener is familiar with behave the same way. This is berries. If the weather records for "perfect" flowers, that is, flowers known as alternate bearing. The the preceding June are checked that have both pollen-bearing sta­ homeowner, with his lilacs, can you probably will find that at the mens and pistils which bear fruit help this situation a bit by cutting time the small holly flowers were when pollenated. In normally good off all the flowers as soon as they open, the weather was either ex­ seasons, these plants fruit well. have wilted, to prevent the forma­ tremely wet or cold. Both situa­ Some, like the Japanese barberry, tion of seed. Theoretically, the nu­ tions reduce the activity of bees can be counted on to fruit well year trients which would have gone and other insects. in and year out. The flowers are into seed formation are then avail­ There also is always the possi­ what might be called " self fer­ able for flower bud formation for bility that the flower buds, or the tile", that is, the pollen of a single the next year. With plants grown opening flowers themselves, can flower is all that is needed to fer­ chiefly for their fruits, this is a be killed either by winter freezes or tilize the pistil of that flower, and more difficult problem to handle. late spring frosts . Both situations being close to the pistil, the pollen Inclement weather at flowering occur in the peach-growing areas is easily distributed by a slight mo­ time also can cause complications. of the southeastern United States. tion of wind or twig. This can occur as rainy or very cold This is always widely publicized, However, it all isn't that easy on weather. Bees, for instance, do not but the same thing can happen to many plants. Even though lilacs fly much when the temperature is some of the choice ornamental have perfect flowers, they are below 57°F, and bees are a very shrubs and trees in our gardens. known to produce good crops of important pollen carrier for many Fruit growers, who have been flowers one year and poor crops plants. In New England sometimes studying the fruit production on the next year. Many fruit varieties there is a very poor crop of holly many types of fruit trees, know About the Bees and the Flowers.

Donald Wyman 59 Jericho Road Weston , MA 02193

33 lings, place them in a bottle of wa­ yew varieties are strictly male) ter, hang them in his tree and let your yews will also fruit. If you are the wind and insects do the rest. Lo not certain, plant a male yew near and behold, that season his tree the ones you know are female and produced many fruits. your females should set fruit. Finally, and most important in With the female bittersweet, this story of non-fruiting plants, which blooms in June, place a there are many genera which pro­ small male vine in the same plant­ duce male (pollen-bearing) flowers ing hole, or graft on a branch from on one plant and female (fruiting) a male plant, or cut flowering flowers on another. Both types of branches from a male plant when that certain varieties are "self fer­ plants must be present in reason­ the flowers are ready to open, place tile", that is, an en tire orchard can able proximity for the fruiting them in a bottle of water and hang be planted with the one variety plant to fruit. Some of our best or­ it up in the female vine. This and all the trees will fruit normally. namentals are in this category: hol­ should bring results. Ginkgo trees Such varieties as the 'Stanley' plum lies, bittersweet and yews. There are now sold by sex, because the and the 'McIntosh' apple are in this may be individuals with both fruiting trees have ill-smelling category. On the other hand, there types of flowers on one plant, but fruits, thus males are most popu­ are varieties like 'Stayman' and the in general one can not count on lar. Many nurserymen are now 'Winesap' apples which are mostly this. Sometimes, a certain species, growing dioecious plants with the self sterile. In order to fruit well the like Ilex corn uta, will bear fruit sexes separated, so that one can flowers of these varieties need to without the seed ripening, but knowingly purchase a male and a have pollen from other apple vari­ there are not many. These should female to insure the fruiting of the eties. Over the years orchardists not be confused with plants like latter. Some of the woody plants have found that 'McIntosh' and the oaks, firs, pines and begonias with sexes separated are: 'Delicious' are good polli nators which have both male and female Botanic Name Common Name and so are included in orchards flowers with both types always w~ere many self sterile varieties present on the same plant. Acer (some species) Maples are grown. Bittersweet vines are usually Actinidia Actinidia We have not been studying or­ dioecious (male and female flowers Ailanthus Tree of Heaven namental plants as carefully as our on separate plants) but I have Aucuba Aucuba economic crops, yet, bit by bit we found an occasional plant that is Baccharis Groundsel-bush are picking up helpful information polygamodioecious (flowers of Brousonettia Paper-mulberry about their fruiting habits. Vibur­ mostly one sex but with a few of Celastrus Bittersweet num dilatatum, the linden-leaved the other sex). Usually this is not Cephalotaxus Plum-yew Viburnum, fruits much better enough to affect its over-all fruit­ (Mostly) when several seedlings are grown ing habits. Cercidiphyllum Katsura-tree together, rather than with a group Comptonia Sweetfern of plants that have been asexually Cotinus (some) Smoketree propagated from one clone. The Diospyros Persimmon Chinese Chestnut, now becoming Eucommia Hardy Rubber- a popular replacement for the Tree American Chestnut, also fruits bet­ Garrya Silk-tassel ter when several seedlings are Ginkgo Ginkgo grown together, rather than a Helwingia Helwingia group of trees all propagated asex­ Hippophae Sea Buckthorn ually from one named clone. How far apart can dioecious Idesia (some) Idesia A few years ago, an elderly gen­ plants be spaced? We don't always Ilex Holly tleman wanted to show his grand­ know. If they are wind-pollinated, Juniperus (many) Juniper children what chestnuts growing they might be within a few feet; if Leitneria Corkwood on a tree looked like, for he re­ insect-pollinated, they might be a Lindera Spicebush membered collecting them when quarter of a mile, or even farther. If Maclura Osage-orange he was a boy. He had a splended you are planting yews, for exam­ Morus (some) Mulberry Chinese Chestnut, which bore ple, and your next door neighbor Nemopanthus Mountain-holly flowers every year, but never has yews that fruit well, chances (some) fruited. I suggested he cut bloom- are that if you buy fruiting vari­ Orixa Orixa 34 ing branches from one of our seed- eties (and remember that some Phellodendron Corktree YOU·" GAOWTO LOVE CLIP THIS TO MUL TlPL Y YOUR Podo carpus Podocarpus YOUR TURNER (usuall y) PL.ANT~~~,~~PROFITS With THE SPEED AND BEAUTY DIfFERENCE! TM Populus (m ostly) Poplar ' !!!'!G,!?Ys~~ostage ® TURNER GREENHOUSES and handling . 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FREE ~arne, ______COLOR 35 CATALOG, Address clip and mail today. City______State___ Zip ____ lhe~h The typical English cottage gar­ den is peculiarly national and now, Cottage Caroen alas, is becoming rather a rare phenomenon. However, when one does see a really good example one . Patrick M. Synge V.M.H. tends to stop and look over the Former Editor fence. The effect usually depends Royal Horticultural So ciety, Englan d on the small size and the mass of varied colour, apparently uncon­ trived to any particular scheme or pattern. If it is backed by an old Tudor cottage with the original beams, or even a small Georgian one, so much the better. Perhaps a narrow paved or gravel path leads up to the door with low pinks, sweet alyssum or white arabis spil­ ling over it. When one sees such a picture on the cover of a box of chocolates one tends to regard it as sentimental but when one sees it as a living garden the effect can be altogether charming. It is not usu­ ally a specialist's garden but rather that of a lover of flowers, nor will one find rare plants there but rather the well tried and free­ flowering stalwarts that flower over a long season. Quick colour can be derived from annuals and biennials which can be raised in boxes at the back and put into place nearly on the point of flower, antirrhinums, sweet scented stocks and mari­ golds with occasional dahlias and sometimes a fine clump of the white madonna lily undisturbed over the years. This and, in Scot­ land, the deep orange-red Lilium pyrenaicum rub rum seem to be two species found often in cottage gar­ dens and often doing far better there than in the larger and more tended garden of the bigger house. No-one has ever explained why but it is certainly a fact; good cot­ tage gardening is very intensive gardening since there is little space, none can be wasted or left bare. When an annual or biennial has finished flowering it is quickly 36 taken out and something else planted straight away to fill the small circles of runner beans grow­ circle. Along the paths are helian­ gap. ing up a neat wigwam of poles, themums, shrubby potentillas and In one lovely example which I perhaps alternating with little flag irises, decorative in foliage used to pass often there was a lone patches of sweet peas, the seed­ when not in flower. The beds structure of dwarf conifers and lings having been raised early on .around are full of annuals and her­ other small trees with yellow and the window ledge of the living baceous plants while a few bushes coloured foliage. The occasional room. Lettuces can look very deco­ such as the graceful late summer­ golden yew with its fastigiate form rative near the front and can flowering Genista aetn ensis, more takes up little space and is bright quickly be replaced when eaten roses brought from Persia by her, through much of the year. They are with young seedlings, while the the silver-leaved Cytisus battandieri kept clipped and under six feet tall. coloured curly kale can be both from Morocco whose flower spikes The various forms of Euonymus decorative and edible. A few herbs smell so gloriously of pineapple, and Hebe with grey or yellow also are us ually grown, parsley and and a few others complete the pic­ foliage are also delightful and fit in dill, sage and rosemary and for ture. In the spring there are yellow well to such a scheme, while their those who like it a little garlic. It is tulips and the yellow peony upright or spreading forms make heartening what the enthusiast can P. mlokosewitschii, named after a contrast to the other more formless do in a small space. Russian general, with, for us an unpronounceable name. Later bril­ but more colourful plants. Clumps One of the most famous cottage of sweet peas trained over pea gardens in the country, however, liant es chsc holtzias and Venidio­ arctotis and the yellow Tropaeoleum sticks or climbing roses trained was made at a castle, Sissinghurst polyphyllum, ramble over the over a tripod of poles or a short Castle in Kent, by the late Miss ground so that no earth is left bare. rustic length of pergola are features V. Sackville West. The Castle con­ All was in fact very carefully cho­ often seen. sisted of a single tall tower and two sen, I am sure, but the effect is very In the best kind of cottage gar­ wings on each side of the tower but natural, a bubbling miscellany of den there seems to be a haphazard the rest was largely walls, excellent colour, both flower and foliage, luxuriance, a riot of bright colours backgrounds for good plants. At and the very essence of a cottage yet being on a small scale it does the end of the paths leading garden. not offend for its blatancy or gaud­ through the superb collection of My wife tells me that I must not iness or even for a clash of colours. old roses one came to a small house write about cottage gardens with­ Labour-saving is not generally a in which she had her room. It was out quoting Matthew Arnold's problem where the garden is small known as the cottage and the gar­ 'Thyrsis' and though it is unusual and the owner keen. It is rather a den in front, the cottage garden, to find poetry in a horticultural place where he or she can potter, because it was a glorious medley of paper his words are very appropri­ replacing one plant with another to colour and planted in the cottage ate and so here they are. They are make a continuous effect, con­ style. It can still be seen. The wall is part of a longer poem written to stantly trimming and removing completely smothered with roses, commemorate the death of a dead wood and foliage; there are the lovely white 'Mme. Alfred Car­ friend, detailing the delights he daffodils and wallflowers, white riere', right up to the eaves and has lost. arabis and aubretia and pink with hundreds of blooms, while in thymes falling over the paths and the corner is the bright yellow Soon will the high Midsummer in the wall. Later, pinks take their climber 'Lawrence Johnston'. Near pomps come on, place and helianthemums and sil­ the old oak door is the dark maroon Soon will the musk carnations very santolinas and, further back, red rose 'Souvenir de Dr. Jamain' break and swell, sweet william and, later, white with its wonderful scent. She took Soon shall we have gold-dusted marguerites, delphiniums and particular pride in this since she snapdragon, even a few dahlias. For later sum­ had retrieved it from an old derelict Sweet-William with its homely mer a few michaelrnas daisies and nursery. Beside the door is a seat cottage-smell, Japanese anemones, white or pink, and a brick path leads away from And stocks in fragrant blow; and even a few nerines near the the door to a large and ancient cop­ Roses that down the alleys shine wall of the cottage. The pos­ per cauldron, blue-green with age afar, sibilities are endless. and verdigris and filled in summer And open, jasmine-muffled lat­ It is not surprising to find a few with the apricot-yellow form of tices, vegetables intermingled with the that charming musk Diplacus flowers in the true cottage garden glutinosus overflowing all round. It And groups under the dreaming and with present prices of vegeta­ is placed in the middle of the gar­ garden- trees, bles this tendency is increasing. den where the two paths join and And the full moon , and the white Near the back of the border may be where the bricks widened into a evening-star. 37 MAKES A GREAT HOUSEPlANT By Gordon DeWolf, Horticulturist, Arnold Arboretum, Harvard University

One of my earliest memories is of the collection of quantities. Beginning in the 1680's expeditions left plants in my grandmother's living room bay window. from Cape Town to explore the coasts and interior. I remember the Pelargo niums and the Impatiens lean­ Soon expanded shipments of plants and seeds began ing toward the light, and the spectacular displays of to arrive in Holland. When the French naturalist Jean Zygocactus and Epiphyllu m. One plant stands out in Baptiste La Marck described the Jade Plant in 1786 he my memory-a huge specimen of the common Jade recorded that it had been growing in the Jardin du Plant (Crassula portulacea). My grandmother's plant Roi, in Paris, " for a long time," and he believed it exists no more, but on my dining room window sill I came from Africa. have my own modest reminder. The common Jade Plant produces a fleshy stem cov­ The common Jade is surely one of the most popular ered with a brown or grayish " bark". The green fleshy house plants. Though it seldom flowers under house­ twigs bear thick egg-shaped leaves, with the narrow hold conditions, unless subjected to high light inten­ end toward the base where it passes into a thick sity, it will survive and even thrive under a wide petiole. Leaves are 1-2 in. long, % -11/4 in. wide and range of conditions. It tolerates low levels of illumina­ 1/s- 1/4 in. thick. They are borne in opposite pairs. The ti~n and survives repeated desication. It propagates twigs branch frequently and a small plant soon be­ readily from cuttings, which grow quickly to respect­ comes a miniature tree. The Jade Plant will tolerate able size. Given the opportunity, it will live as long as low light, a dry, hot atmosphere, and little water. you or 1. It makes a wonderful gift for a beginning Naturally a much healthier plant is produced in a window gardener for it almost surely will succeed and sunny window, with an adequate water supply. provide encouragement to try other plants. Under such conditions an old plant may cover itself Although the Jade is probably one of the oldest of with clusters of pale pink blossoms. our commonly cultivated house plants, its date of Over the years the Jade Plant has been confused introduction and original source are unknown. What with three other shrubby species of Crassula, viz. C. is certain is that the Jade Plant ranges in South Africa arbo rescens, a shrub or small tree with larger, differ­ from Worcester on the West to Port Elizabeth on the ently shaped, leaves; C lactea, a prostrate sub-shrub; East and northward into the Transvaal. and C. obliqua, a medium sized shrub. To further The Cape of Good Hope was discovered in 1487, but complicate matters both Cras sula obliqua and C. por­ it was not until the early part of the 17th century that tula cea have been called Crassula argentea , a name of ships began regularly putting in to Table Mountain uncertain application. Bay on their way to and from the East Indies. The In the early years of its cultivation the Jade Plant was ships of the Dutch East India Company began using confused with another South African fleshy shrub or Table Bay as a stop for fresh water and meat about tree, the Spekboom or Elephant's Food, Portulacaria 1616. In 1652 Jan van Riebeeck and 70 men were sent afra . In contrast to the Jade Plant, which is related to out from Holland to establish a town and set up gar­ the Sedums, Spekboom is a Portulaca relative, related dens to supply the East India Company's ships. They to our common garden weed, Purslane. Like Purslane landed where Cape Town now stands. it is edible and is an important plant in parts of Africa. The common name " Spekboom" means literally " Although agriculture was the prime business of the c: port, the governor, van Riebeeck, was interested in "Pork Wood", a reference to the edible twigs. ~ plants. However, the demands of establishing a " go­ In deference to those readers in the frost free areas of ~ ing" farming operation in the wilderness left little the United States, both Jade Plant and Spekboom will ~ time for more frivolous interests. It was not until the grow out of doors if planted in well drained soil. ~ last quarter of the century that collections of living Combine this with adequate sunlight and you may be ci: 38 plants and seeds were sent back to Holland in large lucky enough to have flowers regularly!

K8 Reviews by Tom Stevenson ------THE LAUREL BOOK bloom and other characteristics impor­ temperature of your greenhouse at By tant to their garden effect. 45°F" are quite meaningless without Rich ard A. Jaynes "Those who have found the pallid consideration of the specific plant ma­ Macmi ll an Publishing Co., In c. pinks undistinguished will be capti­ terial concerned. The week-by-week New York - 1975 vated by the descriptions and photo­ guide to garden chores might be useful 180 pages, well ill us trated, $10.95 graphs of the forms with glowing red to the beginning gardener. At least one variety of the seven buds opening to rich rose blossoms species of laurel (Kalmia), all native and by the giant whites. Color Guide to Ameri can Gardening plants, will thrive in any garden in the "Dr. Jaynes has produced an in­ has many of the same problems. It is an continental United States, says the au­ tensely interesting book on laurels excellent beginner's guide to all phases thor. Mountain laurel, the favorite written with unusual clarity in an easy of gardening, both in the mechanical garden laurel, is thought by many to be non-technical manner; at the same aspect of starting a garden as well as in the most beautiful flowering shrub in time it constitutes a primer for the the selection of plant material. Many of North America. It is the state flower of planting and care of their near rela­ the plant recommendations are un­ both Connecticut and Pennsylvania. tives, rhododendrons, azaleas, pieris suitable for growing in the New York Dr. Ja ynes, the author, is associate and other ericaceous plants." area in spite of the comments of the geneticist at the Connecticut Agricul­ tural Experiment Station, New Haven. Two Translations from th e English American editors to the contrary. He has written several other books and GARDENING WEEK BY WEEK Both of these books are by wel1- was the editor of a fine book, " North By known and competent English garden­ American Nut Trees," published in Xenia Fi eld ing writers. Presentation to the Ameri­ 1969 by the Northern Nut Growers As­ Crescent Books can gardening public in a partially sociation. He is the recipient of the New York translated form, however, will confuse Evelyn Mooney Certificate for Creative 1975-128 pages- $5. 98 more than help the reader. The ad­ Horticultural Achievement from the vanced American gardener has always National Council of State Garden COLOR GUIDE TO AMERICAN looked to the British for ideas and in­ Clubs, the Bronze Medal of the Ameri­ GARDENING spiration with the full knowledge that can Rhododendron Society, the 'Iackson Dawson Memorial Medal from By he must adapt what he reads to condi­ the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci­ Arthur Hellyer tions in America. Both of these books ety for achievement in plant propaga­ Bounty Books imply that this has been done for the tion and hybridization, and other New York beginning gardener by the American awards and citations. 1975-192 pages-$10.95 consultant-this simply isn't the case. The Massachusetts citation states It is unfortunate that the publishers Gilbert S. Daniels that he is " probably the country' s of British gardening books feel com­ FERN GROWERS MANUAL foremost worker in the development of pelled to provide special editions for by blight-resistant selections of American the American gardener. The addition Barbara Jo e Hoshizaki chestnut." It also said he has de­ of an American consultant and the in­ Alfred A . Knopf, New York, New York veloped a wide range of flower colors and plant forms in his· work with clusion of the inevitable plant­ • 256 pp ., illustrated. $15.00 mountain and sheep laurel, several of hardiness zone map does not make an Most observers of the current hor­ which should be fine additions to a American edition of a previously pub­ ticultural scene will agree that there garden. lished English gardening book. has been a great increase of interest in Perhaps the best evaluation of " The Gardening Week by W ee k is a chatty plants in recent decades, particularly Laurel Book" is provided by Dr. David book which provides weekly instruc­ among young people. Plant boutiques G. Leach, past president of The Ameri­ tions for working with garden flowers, have proliferated and in the trade there can Horticultural Society, and himself indoor plants, shrubs, greenhouse, has been a trend toward the use of a leading authority on Kalmia (laurel) fruit and other similar subjects. The more pot plants such as ferns, bromeli­ as well as rhododendrons. generalities about the seasonal ads, chrysanthemums and poinsettias " This is the first book ever pub­ weather and regional differences in place of cut flowers. This cultural lished Qn Kalmia," he says. "The book within the United States, which are of­ trend has been accompanied by the reflects the author' s authority which fered in this book, seem quite ingenu­ proliferation of popular horticultural springs from intimate acquaintance ous and are better suited to an explana­ books. with these fascinating plants. tion aimed at the British audience John Philip Baumgardt commented " It deals especially and concisely rather than a clarification to an in­ on this trend at the 1975 Longwood with every conceivable aspect of its history, propagation, cultivation, tox­ habitant of North America. The excel­ Seminar of the Graduate Program in icity, pests, hybridizing and inheri­ lent photographs in large format make Ornamental Horticulture which is op­ tance. Most readers will be astounded this a pretty book but add little to the erated in cooperation with the Univer­ to learn of the diversity in the laurels, informa tion con ten t. Generalized sity of Delaware. In this recent meeting in flower size, color, stature, season of statements such as " keep the night at Longwood Gardens, he stated: " We 40 have proved, thus far, that some qual­ THE NATIVE ORCHIDS OF along the Atlantic coast. While the ity horticultural writing is going on THE UNITED STATES AND Malaxis is at least included in the key to these days: books are being published CANADA EXCLUDING FLORIDA the gen us, no m ention is made in the that will endure-books that will be By book anywhere of th e Epidendrum or highly regarded, in all proba bility, Carlyle A. Luer the Hab enaria. Aside from this deliber­ many years from now." New York Botanical Garden ate omission, this book is highly rec­ "But these books are in the great Bronx, New York ommended both for its specific content minority. For every good book that ap­ 1975-363 pages-$40.00 and as a model for specialized region al pears today som e dozen of no good As a conseq uence of the excell ence of floras. ones are strewn across the face of the content and production of The Native Gilbert S. Daniels country. Where do they come from? Orchids of Florida , publi shed in 1972, THE COMPLETE HANDBOOK OF How do they come to be written? What this com panion volume for the orchids PLANT PROPAGATION are the publishers thinking of to pub­ of the remaining states of the United by lish books of dubious merit? Why are States and Canada h as been eagerly R.C.M. Wright so many incompetent authors being awaited. The anticipation was jus­ Ma cmillan Publishing Co. published while knowledgeable au­ tified, and the new work deserves New York -1975 thors scarcely set words on paper?" equal compliments. Th e colored pho­ 190 pages, well illustrated, $12 .95 "The Fern Growers Manual" is defi­ tograph s, distribution m aps, and line The plant propagation techniques nitely one of permanent value. It is a drawings of floral details all add to the sh own and d escribed in this b ook fern library in miniature and a con­ excell ent descriptions a nd general make it possible for almost any gar­ dener to grow favorite plants, includ­ tribution by a very well qualified au­ ecological discussions regarding each ing rare and expensive ones, at great thor, profusely illustrated, with some species. The three native species and savings, and w ith considerable satis­ color. fo ur introduced species of orch ids factio n . This book is definitely horticultural w hich are fo und growing wild i n There are specific guidelin es and rather than botanical in orientation Hawaii are included as well as all professional tips w hen to raise seeds and the cultural needs of all species species of orchids growin g in Alaska. under glass; sow seeds outdoors; currently available are fully treated, in­ In addition, Cypripedium irapeanum, a propagate plants by division, cutting, cluding methods of propagation, hyb­ native of Mexico, is also included in grafting, budding and layering; grow ridization and pest control. The price is ordet to provide completeness for the plants by recentl y developed tech­ niques, such as mist propagation and modest considering present costs. The genus, for this is the only species of the horm one root propagation; and, refine only additional feature which we genus w hich occurs on the North your own hyb rid plants. The h and­ would like to have had is a simple key American continent outside of the book is one of the most comprehensive to the main genera, using vegetative geographical area covered by the b ook. and up'-to-date works on plant propa­ and soral characters. We suggest this Although 25 of the species already cov­ gation. for inclusion in a later edition. ered in The Native Orchids of Florida are R.C.M. Wright, the author, is p ar­ The time would appear to be ripe for also included in the new publication ticularly well qualified to write a prac­ tical handbook on plant propagation. a botanical manual of the ferns of the because of their range throughout H e worked for m any years for Samuel world, presenting full descriptions and other states, it is unfortunate that a balance of 14 additional species, McGrady and Sons, world-famous keys to species. The author is well rose growers, and subsequently for the mostly occurring along the southern qualified to prepare such a volume. late F. A. Secrett on vegetable produc­ Atlantic coast and the Gulf Coast as far The potential market might be more tion. He also worked for a number of limited and this might have to be pub­ west as Texas, have not been included years at the John Innes Horticultural lished by some university press. in the present work. This is regrettable Institution and as an adviser to the Doubtless there would be some sales to because anyone living in the south­ British Ministry of Agriculture and fern collectors and commercial nurse­ eastern states outside of Florida will Fisheries, primarily on methods of rymen as well as to botanists. At least require both works in order to identify plant propagation. Can the average gardener save seeds there is now sufficient interest to sup­ all orchids which might possibly occur from his own garden and get good re­ port some pwfessional and amateur in his home area. Among the 14 excluded species are Epidendrum con­ sults from them? societies devoted to ferns. " The Fern This has b een done successfully in opseum, which occurs from Florida Growers Manual" will doubtless foster certain cases, says the author, but there and amplify this interest. north to southern North Carolina and are complications, and with some west to Louisiana; Malaxis spicata, kinds of plants it is d efinitely inadvis­ Vernon Stoutemyer which occurs from Florida north to able. Pro{essor Emeritus Virginia; and Habenaria repens, which The chief difficulties are as follows: Biology Department has a range completely circling the Gulf Firstly, in small gardens there is insuf­ U.C.L.A. of Mexico and north to North Carolina Con tin ued on page 43 41 African Violets Greenhouses Publications GREENHOUSE 8' x 12 '. Build yourself for $50 America s Finest - 100 Best Violets and BOTANICAL & HORTI CULTURAL BOOKS. or less. Eig ht different plans $2 .97 . In c ludes Gesnerlads - Write for Color Ca talogue 150: Rare. Out-of-print. New - Latest Catalog hotbed. Guaranteed. 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EDELWEISS GARDENS, Bo x 66 GA Rob­ binsville, N.J . 08691 Miscellaneous Rare Tropical Seeds Gardening Equipment Indoor-Outdoor Mister - Automated solid Sen'd for free catalogue Red Cordyline ter­ state system . Heavy rooting and sturdy PEERLESS POTMAN offers 100 high quality minalis: $1 .25/ 100 Dwarf Schefflera ar­ plastic pots for only $10.00 postpaid. (30/2"; growth - Valve . sensor. power supply. cables boricola $2.99/ 100 Pink Panther Schefflera 50/4"; 20/6W') Worlds largest pot catalog 25¢ - $79.50 Fully Guaranteed - AOUAMONI­ Octophylia $3.99/ 100 Araucaria excelsa: GOLDEN EARTH ENTERPR ISES BOX 336A TOR . Box 327-Z . Huntington. New York $3.99/ 100 seeds HUROV'S, Box 10387, Hono­ 42 BREA, CALI F 92621 11743. lulu, Hawaii, 96816. provide adequate isolation . Succulent Seed saving of vegetables in private 'KDK8 Con tinued gardens sh ould usually b e limited to CAC TI - 15 VA RIETIE S, $7.50. Succulent those vege tables that n orm ally set assort ment-20 va rie ti es, $7.50. La rger size ficient room to allow any space being pl a nt s avai lab le. Reta il cata log 30¢ set aside specially for seed production. seeds w ith their own pollen; in other Loe hma n's Cactus Patch 801 4 Howe St. , Box Secondly, in m any districts it is impos­ words, they are self-fertile. Even then 871 , Para mou nt, CA 90723. sible to secure proper ripen ing and there is a risk of some cross-pollination d rying owing to m oist weather in the unless one variety only, of each of the Volunteer Peace Corps autumn. Thirdly, there is always the vegetables attempted , is grown. risk of indiscrim inate cross poll in ation It is also advisable to restrict home You are needed for Peace Co rps pr ojects In seed-saving to vegetables that ripen Latin Am e ri ca. Afr ica. Asia. Extension wo rk in giving rise to worthless h ybrids . If one attem p ted to save seeds from their seed earl y and are relatively easy harvesti ng , storage & marke ting , home gar­ to harvest; such crops include peas, dening projects, research, nu rsery & orchard cabbages an d Brussels sprouts grow­ ing side by side, very li kely some or all broad bean s, runner beans, s tring­ programs, etc. Tr ansport ation , housi ng, med­ beans, lettuce an d tomatoes. ical care, paid vacati on . U.S. ci tize n. Singles of the seedlings would be a cross be­ or couple s onl y. Inform ati on: Lynn Rotenberg, tween these two vegetables. All the In saving seed from vegetables, as AC TI ON , ORC Box F-18, Washington, D.C. brassicas are prone to crossing in this far as is possible select only those 20525. way, and even if only one type is p lants that are healthy, true to type and grown , there is always a risk of cross­ conform to the general standard of the pollination from a neigh bor's garden variety. or elsewhere. It should be emphasized that any Moreover, the varieties of most veg­ improvement in plants or their produc­ eta ble p lants se t seed readily w ith tivity w hich is due to good cultivation other varieties of the same kin d , and in is not passed on to their offspring, the a p rivate garden it is rarely possible to au thor says. Continued fro m page 32

More Than Zinnias, NewAHS Earlier Than Marigolds Horticultural Medal widths of pewter bowls, dark tones of the library-office needing a bril­ liant bouquet to bring the room to life. Complimenting interior de­ sign is not the most rewarding use for cu tting flowers , however. Every gardener remembers flowers from occasions; Peonies at a daugh ter' s birthday, Daffodils splashed over a hilltop at a revisi­ ted house, pale lavender Gladiolus sent by a music teacher when one missed lessons during a hospital A special medal fo r the American Horticultural Society has been stay. These intimate memories be­ executed by Viktor Schreckengast, a nationally known sculptor long to every person, as silent re­ and industrial designer from Cleveland, Ohio. This new medal is minders are part of the poetry and to be given for horticultural excellence at regional shows put on by music of living. Sharing such plant SOCIeties who are members of AHS. The gold medal requires 15 species or cultivars of blue ribbon quality, the silver medal 8 thoughts is even deeper. To send species or cultivars. The medal measures one inch and a half across Chrysanthemums to one' s Am­ with a sling attached, so it can be worn on a chain or ribbon. erican-Japanese friend, or AHS plant society members may write to River Farm, Mount daisies to a Sunday altar for a lost Vernon, Virginia 22121 for application blanks. young acolyte, or Rain Lilies to the Mrs. Benjamin P. Bole, Jr., Chairman apartment dweller who serves tea AHS Awards Committee in pink cups on a cool day- these are a person-to-person message difficult to express in other ways. 43 ns

By Tom Stevenson blooms the following spring. The shoots of Chinese wisteria Q: I couldn' t grow grass under can be cut back to the trellis. my Norway maple so I gave up on The severe pruning causes de­ it and used gravel to make it look velopment of many new long better. Now weeds are coming up shoots and these tend to develop through the gravel and 1'm afraid flower buds at all leaves except the to use a weed-killer on them be­ small basal ones. cause it might endanger the tree. Is Fall pruning is likely to remove a there a solution? lot of flower buds. A: Laying black polyethylene Q: My dwarf apple and peach plastic over the soil surface before trees which I am growing on the spreading the gravel can eliminate lawn look anemic. They have fruit the weed problem. The plastic on them but it doesn't look normal shuts out light. It is necessary to and the foliage doesn't look punch small holes in the plastic healthy. Should they be fertilized? every two feet or so to allow for I have never done it, assuming it drainage. An ice pick can be used was unnecessary. for this. A: Fruit trees growing in per­ Your best bet at this point is to manent sod on the lawn should be pull up the weeds as they appear. fertilized every year. Give them They should not be hard to pull. 10-6-4 fertilizer, at the rate of three Sooner or later they will stop com­ to five pounds per tree, spread mgup. evenly on the ground and then wa­ Q: My wisteria vine is taking tered in. Keep at least a foot away over the place. Can it be pruned from the trunk of the tree. and if so when? I love it when it is The best time to fertilize them is in bloom and don't want to harm in the fall after most of the leaves it. have dropped. Fertilizer applied at A: The Chinese wisteria can be that time will be taken up by the pruned severely and blooms as roots and be in place to push vig­ well or even better than if left un­ orous new growth in the spring. pruned. The Japanese wisteria blooms better if left unpruned. Q: I have tried repeatedly to The Chinese variety is extremely grow clivia house p lants from seed fragrant, the Japanese only slightly which I get from a large plant I so. The blossoms on the Chinese have, without success. Obviously, open before the leaves appear I don't know how. Can you help while on the Japanese they develop me? with the unfolding leaves. A: You probably are taking the The Chinese wisteria can be seed and planting them before pruned immediately after it they mature. It takes close to a year blooms or pruning can be delayed for the seed to ripen on the plant. three or four weeks. Early pruning At first green, the fruit contain­ tends to cause summer flowering ing the seed gradually changes to 44 without decreasing the number of dark red when ripening. Each fruit usually contains one to three seed. quent intervals (about every 10 Q: Can you please tell me how Not many should be allowed to days or two weeks). to take care of wax begonias? mature on the plant because it Q: We have a beautiful oak tree A: The wax begonia (Begonia weakens the plant materially. Plant that had an infestation of oak galls semperflorens) needs very good the seed immediately after ripe. last year. The gall was a light col­ light to bloom continuously. Out­ Potting mixtures sold at garden ored parchment-like ball, a Ii ttle doors in the garden full sun is o.k. centers are satisfactory. smaller than a golf ball, empty in­ but when used as a house plant Q: What time of day is best for side. If it happens again this year, morning sun only is best. watering the lawn? what damage will it do to the tree Do not over-water, they are suc­ A: There are three fallacies and is there any practical way to culents. A succulent is a plant that about lawn watering. One is that prevent it? stores water in thickened leaves the grass should never be watered A: The gall you describe is the and stems for use in periods of when the sun is shining; another is oak apple gall. It is caused by the dryness. Water only after the soil that the grass will die from drought cynipid wasp. The immature in­ has become fairly dry and then if not watered, and the other is a sect is a legless white larva, the water thoroughly. little water every day is the best adult a 4-winged wasp. This gall In the garden outdoors light fer­ system. and most other galls cause little or tilization weekly will help them to If there is any best time to water no damage to the tree, although keep blooming. Indoors, once a it is probably early morning. Wa­ with a heavy infestation it may month is adequate. tering in early evening may make somewhat affect the appearance of Q: I planted a golden locust tree the grass more susceptible to dis­ the tree. The only way the galls nearly two years ago, it is about 12 eases because it will stay wet all could be prevented would be to feet tall, has beautiful golden night. Watering when the sun is eliminate the insects that cause leaves, but the trunk is much too shining will not harm the grass if them and that would not be very spindly. How do I prune this tree water is needed. easy to do and it is seldom practi­ to keep it growing tall but Grass turns brown when the soil cal. stronger? is very dry, but a drought severe Q: My candytuft didn't bloom A: The problem with the gold­ enough to kill most lawn grasses is very well this year. What can I do to en locust and other plants with not likely, especially where a lawn perk it up? leaves mostly yellow or white is the is given halfway decent care. A: The best treatment for pe­ leaves do not have very much In a controlled experiment to rennial candy tuft is to cut it back to chlorophyll and that means low study lawn irrigation in the north­ about six inches soon after the food production. ern humid region of the United flowers fade in the spring. Hedge New growth of roots, trunk and States conducted in Ohio, after shears can be used to do the prun­ limbs is largely from food pro­ three years the sod was better in ing. duced in the leaves. A dark green terms of density and freedom from If candytuft isn't sheared, the leaf can produce more food than a weeds where no irrigation was flowers go to seed and a lot of yellow one; a normal leaf more applied. energy is used up in the process, than one damaged by insects and Proper irrigation will keep a often resulting in poor flowering diseases. lawn looking nicer but will not ba­ the following spring. To help promote growth of the sically improve an otherwise Don't cut back below six inches, tree, to help it become more well-managed Kentucky bluegrass because it may seriously damage sturdy, do not prune it at all. When or red fescue lawn. the plant. After pruning the can­ you remove a healthy leaf, you lose Turfgrass specialists agree that dytuft, fertilize it with 5-10-5 fer­ a food producer. Do not even re­ when a lawn is watered, it should tilizer at the rate of five pounds per move the leaves growing along the be thoroughly soaked at infre- 100 square feet of area. trunk. 45