Garden Flowers And Floral designs

Hardy Hybrids

'Riccartonii', a very free-flowering plant with scarlet tube and sepals and dark purple corolla, is sometimes listed as a variety of magellanica, but is now considered to be a hybrid. Two other old and very popular hardy hybrids are 'Madame Cornelissen' with crimson tube and sepals, crimson corolla, semi-double flowers, and 'Mrs Popple' with scarlet tube and sepals, deep purple corolla, single flowers.

Bedding Hybrids

Most fuchsias can be used in the garden for the summer, and brought in before the first frost. A good fuchsia catalogue will indicate the type of growth habit and whether they make good bedding fuchsias.

Some of the triphylla hybrids, such as `Gartenmeister Bonstedt', with its orange flowers, dark, reddish foliage, are very effective with other summer bedding plants. This type of fuchsia is distinctive, with longs tubes and short sepals, and a small single corolla.

Home And Greenhouse

Fuchsias flower well in a greenhouse, some will perform even better than if planted out-doors, but they are best regarded as short- term houseplants. The poor light and warm, dry atmosphere does not suit them and they generally deteriorate rapidly indoors. They do, however, make attractive conservatory plants where light and humidity are better.

For The Rock Garden

There are a few really dwarf frost-tolerant varieties suitable for the rock garden and even for window boxes. 'Tom Thumb' has red sepals with a mauve corolla and 'Lady Thumb' has carmine pink sepals, and a white corolla veined pink. Both are popular varieties that grow to about 45cm (1/2ft).

Tube - The tubular part of the flower between the flower stalk and the usually reflexed petal-like sepals.

{ Large plants are worth keeping from year to year, pruning as new growth starts M spring. Pinching out the tips of young shoots to entourage bushy growth should be started soon after the cuttings root. They benefit from regular feeding in spring and summer.}

Choosing And Growing Successful Plants

Annual Perennials

A perennial that can be treated like an annual sounds a contradiction in terms, but many tender perennials are treated as annuals.

More uncommon are hardy perennials that sill flower in the first year if sown early enough under glass. You can have the best of both worlds with these plants.

Hardy perennials that will flower in the first year if started early enough are usually grown in the herbaceous border, but some can also be used in annual beds.

Plants to try include the following, but note that the variety can be important: some varieties have been specially bred to flower quickly from seed. Those particularly useful for summer bedding schemes include achillea, coreopsis, lobelia, and osteospermum. The others are best used as gap fillers.

Achillea 'Summer Pastels'

Coreopsis 'Early Sunrise'

Delphinium 'Dwarf Magic Fountains

Mixture', 'Pacific Giants Mixed'

Eccremocarpus 'Tresco Hybrids'

Leucanthemum x superbum (formerly Chrysanthermum maximum) `Snow Lady'

Eriophyllum `Sunkiss'

Lobelia 'Cinnabar Rose', 'Compliment Mixed', Tan Scarlet', 'Orchid Rose'

Michaelmas daisy 'Composition Mixed' Osteospermum hyoseroides

Platycodon grandiflorum 'Blue Pygmy'

 Polemonium caeruleum 'Blue Pearl'

Salvia Farinacea

Unlike the popular red salvia, with blue flower spikes, this forms a useful contrast to other plants. Good in containers or in a mixed bedding scheme. Height: 30-45cm (1-11/2ft).

Varieties To Look For

'Victoria' has dark blue flowers. 'Strata' has blue flowers on greyish spikes.

Soil And Site

Well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade.

Propagation

Sow seed in warmth under glass between mid-winter and early spring.

Tagetes Erecta

African marigold, American marigold

The colors and flower size are bold and brassy: large double blooms in shades of orange and yellow (occasionally white). The foliage has a pungent smell, but only when handled or crushed. Older varieties were often tall, but there are dwarf varieties shorter than 30cm (1 ft) and compact enough for containers. Dead-head regularly to improve the appearance and prolong flowering.

Height: 30-90cm (1-3ft).

Varieties To Look For

The Inca series (available as separate colors or as a 42 Above: Coreopsis 'Early Sunrise is easy to flower, and can be treated as an annual. If deadheaded often, it will flower from early summer to the first frost, from a late winter sowing. That's performance for a perennial.

The Best Plants For Your Garden

TIP TO TRY

Cut out the dead flowering stems when the first flush of flowers is over — you may be rewarded with a second flush in late summer.

Begonia Semperflorens

Fibrous-rooted begonia, wax begonia

Neat, compact plants ideal for an edging, containers, and formal bedding. Flowers come in various shades of white, pink, and red, in various permutations with green, bronze, and very dark foliage. A tender perennial, but flowers continuously until first frost.

Height: 10-20cm (4-8in) 

TIP TO TRY

Before the first frost, pot up a few plants to take indoors. If necessary trim off some of the longest shoots to make a compact plant. They should continue to bloom through the winter as a houseplant if given a light position.}

Varieties To Look For

The Olympia series in separate colors is among the best of the taller varieties at about 20cm (8in), 'Cocktail' is a pleasing compact mixture with bronze foliage at about 10-15cm (4-6in).

Soil and site

Under demanding regarding soil, but best in partial shade. Will also tolerate full sun.

Propagation

Sow seed in warmth under glass in mid- or late winter.

Bellis Perennis

Double daisy

Although a form of the same daisy that sometimes infests lawns as a weed, these highly bred varieties have double flowers, sometimes like small pompons. Colors are white, pink, and red. 

The Classification Of Roses

'MOZART'

ORNAMENTAL SHRUB ROSE

1937, GermanyThe tiny flowers of 'Mozart' never appear singly but always in giant clusters on arching canes from June to October. Small-blossomed and two-coloured roses, including those like 'Mozart' with a white eye, are winners in appearance because of the calm generosity of the space they occupy, as can be seen in the garden above. Planted between the uniform green of the hedge and the stone grey of the path, the urn and the pedestal, the little shrub rose radiates poise and conciseness; likewise the pelargonium in the urn, which is of the same colour, is the perfect rounding-out of the picture. This design does not do justice only to the rose, however; the two rose bushes also add a charming touch to the monochrome green and the horizontal bottom of the hedge, loosening and lightening it.

The same colour scheme can be seen in the flowers of 'Pink Meidiland®' (synonym: 'Pink Meillandecor'), an ADR-approved rose having the same height. Its blooms brighten from cherry-red edges to pale pink centres, giving this profusely flowering, long-lasting small shrub rose a beguiling charm that is both fresh and lively.

FLOWERING: Recurrent; single; 0 3 cm (11/2 in); pink with white eye; scentless

 

GROWTH: 0.8-1.2 m (3-4 ft) high; bushy, arching

 FEATURES: Healthy; tolerates heat; the blooms have the perfect shape for freezing in ice cubes; winter hardy 

PLANTING: In flowerbeds and borders; for semi-wild gardens; as a specimen and for pegging down; for hedges and containers 

INTRODUCED: Lambert,

`CENTENAIRE DE LOURDES®'

Synonyms: 'Mrs. Jones', `Delge' / ORNAMENTAL SHRUB ROSE

`Centenaire de Lourdes®' is not just a robust, profusely flowering, luminous rose, but also a brilliant all-rounder when it comes to garden design. As a recurrent bloomer, it can provide a colourful, long-lasting backdrop to beds and borders or provide a supple, vertical accent growing up pillars and obelisks. As a graceful separating element or hedge, it can divide gardens into areas with floral charm. Even in places with impossible soil it can triumph as a shrub or weeping standard growing in a container. `Centenaire de Lourdes®' has loose clusters of large pink blooms that have a subtle yet busy effect. While their outer petals fade, the inner petals at the centre of the blossom curve silkily over the stamens.

■ The large pink blooms of the spreading, 1.5 m (5 ft) shrub rose 'Erfurt' continue in full flush until autumn. Because the petals change colour on their underside to white or pale yellow, this fragrant rose has a two- colour effect.

FLOWERING: Recurrent; half filled; 0 10 cm (4 in); pink; intense fragrance GROWTH: 1-1.4 m (3-41/2 ft) high; upright, arching

FEATURES: Climber; healthy; tolerates heat; rain resistant; suits half shade; needs winter protection in colder regions

PLANTING: In flowerbeds and borders; as a specimen and in groups; for containers and hedges; as a pillar rose and weeping standard 

INTRODUCED: Delbard- Chabert, 1958, France

Useful Roses Gardening Information

'JACQUES CARTIER'          

PORTLAND ROSE / Synonym: 'Marquise de Boccella'        

FLOWERING: Recurrent;

 densely filled, quartered, large blossoms; 09 cm (31/2 in); pink, fading to the edge; intense fragrance

GROWTH: About 1-1.2 Hi

(3 ft) high; arching. Can be pruned to grow upright and compact

FEATURES: Robust climber; winter hardy; tolerates half shade and poorer soil 

PLANTING: Ideal for town gardens, beds, hedges. Easy to grow in containers 

INTRODUCED: Moreau-Robert, 1868, France

The close relationship between Portland and Damask roses can be clearly seen in the damask bud of the blossoms of 'Jacques Cartier', where the inner petals of the densely filled flowers reflex. 'Jacques Cartier' has other persuasive qualities, though. It has little susceptibility to fungal diseases and flowers twice a year. The first flowering takes place in June, dense clusters emerging from tight, red buds, the second, a little weaker, toward the end of August. Another characteristic of Portland roses is the way the flowers stand on short stems just above the dense foliage. If you want a compact, upright bush, then simply cut the canes back by a third early in the year.

• 'The Portland Rose' (synonyms: 'Duchess of Portland', `Paestana', Portlandica') is the ancestor of all the Portland roses and is also remontant, flowering in the autumn. The bush, only 90 cm (36 in) tall, with its bright red flowers, was first grown in Italy in about 1790.

'MME BOLL'

Synonym: 'Madame Boll' / PORTLAND ROSE

Without doubt the best Portland rose, 'Madame Boll', sometimes wrongly confused with 'Comte de Chambord', can look back on a long, successful story. The flowers, which lie directly above the foliage, bloom in all their glory from June to July. Usually, they have a second flush that lasts from the end of August until first frost. The only problem affecting this easy-to-care-for decorative bush is a tendency for its buds not to open if it rains a lot during first flush, but instead for them to ball. The remedy, however, is easy: all the gardener needs to do is remove the stuck outer petals. Should such obstetric assistance not be forthcoming, the blooms will rot unopened on the bush, giving rise to the so-called mummy formation.

FLOWERING: Recurrent; very densely filled, quartered, flat; 0 8 cm (31/2 in); bright pink, lightening to the edge; intense musky fragrance

GROWTH: About 1.2 m (4 ft) high; strong; upright; compact

FEATURES: Robust climber; very winter hardy; well suited to half shade; tolerates poorer soil

PLANTING: Beds, borders, hedges and containers 

INTRODUCED: First grown 1843 by Daniel Boll in the USA, sold in Europe by Boyau as 'Madame Boll' 

since 1859

All The Basics About Roses

'DUFTWOLKE®'

HYBRID TEA! Synonyms: 'Fragrant Cloud', `Nuage Parfurne'

This rose is famous worldwide for its wonderful fragrance. It begins to bloom in early June. The flowers usually come in clusters and open from typically pointed oval buds. The initial orange-red of the blooms gradually turns to a lighter crimson shade on fading. Throughout the bloom period the scent is absolutely captivating. These flowers should be enjoyed close-up — in seating areas, on terraces, as cut flowers or even in rose punch. Despite its leathery foliage, it can be susceptible to black spot and, if it is not planted cleverly when used in combinations, it may have a rather ungainly effect due to the size of its blooms. 'Duftwolke®' may also suffer in midday heat and prolonged rain.

'Holsteinperle®' (synonyms: 'Heidi Kabel', 'Testa Rossa') is a real eye-catcher with gorgeous rosette blooms in coral red. It has no scent; however, it does very well in poor weather and keeps well in a vase.

 FLOWERING: Repeat bloomer; double; 0 10-12 cm (4-5 in), coral red; delicious scent

GROWTH: 50-70 cm (20-28 in) high; upright; bushy

FEATURES: World's Favorite Rose 1981; ADR rating 1964; scent and cut flower; very hardy

PLANTING: For flowerbeds, scented beds and borders; as a standard

INTRODUCED: Tantau, 1963, Germany

'TROPICANA'

Synonyms: 'Super Star'', `Tanorstar' / HYBRID TEA

When 'Tropicana' was introduced, it caused a sensation with its pure salmon-pink tones, which last right through the bloom period, coupled with the classical beauty of its high bloom form. It is no surprise that it has won the highest accolades worldwide. Another plus point is that it blooms with great abundance and happily produces more blooms after deadheading. It also emits a lovely, fruity fragrance and the blooms stand up well in rain. This rose should be planted out of the midday sun, as the blooms may pale if exposed to extreme heat and sun. It is also important to plant it in an airy open spot, not too close to other plants, as it is susceptible to mildew.

'Caribia®' (synonyms: 'Harry', 'Harry Wheatcroft') is a similarly brightly coloured rose; however, it is two- toned — the inside of the petals striped red and yellow, the reverses golden yellow.

FLOWERING: Repeat bloomer; double; 0 8-10 cm (3-4 in); salmon pink; powerful scent

GROWTH: 60-80 cm (24-32 in) high; strong; very upright; bushy FEATURES: Susceptible to mildew; great for cutting; hardy

PLANTING: For scented beds and flowerbeds and borders; makes a delightful standard

INTRODUCED: Tantau, 1960, Germany

Designs Your Garden With Flowers

‘BARONNE EDMOND DE ROTHSCHILD'

HYBRID TEA / Synonym: `Grimpant Baronne de Rothschild'

`Baronne Edmond de Rothschild®' is an excellent, sweet-smelling rose full of desirable characteristics. Large, attractive blooms are generally borne singly on powerful stems and keep particularly well when cut for the vase and displays. This rose will happily repeat bloom after pruning. It is easy to maintain and very healthy, its very glossy, tough foliage being astonishingly resistant to fungal diseases. `Baronne Edmond de Rothschild®' will not disappoint, even in harsher zones, where some hybrid Teas are best avoided. When using in combination with other plants, set 35 cm (14 in) apart. If planting an entire perfumed bed of this hybrid Tea, use seven per square metre (square yard).

FLOWERING: Repeat bloomer; fully double; 0 12 cm (5 in); insides deep pink with silvery reverses; glorious, strong fragrance

GROWTH: 80-100 cm (32-39 in) high; vigorous; tightly upright

FEATURES: ADR rating 1971; lovely scent and cutting quality; good in rain; hardy

PLANTING: For flowerbeds, scented beds and borders

 INTRODUCED: Meilland, 1968, France

'HIDALGO'

Synonym: 'Michel Hidalgo' / HYBRID TEA

This dark red hybrid Tea is more often used for bouquets and declarations of love than in the garden. However, for those who enjoy a garden with rich red blooms and sweet fragrances, hybrid Teas are hard to beat. 'Hidalgo'', a classic example, can be combined well with other scented plants to make a lovely fragrant planting on a terrace. Plant 30 cm (1 ft) apart or, for more extensive planting, use nine plants per square metre (square yard). For those who are not so interested in the classics and lay more store by ease of maintenance and health, look for more recent hybrid Tea varieties that combine these latter characteristics with a lovely scent, such as Liebeszauber®' (synonyms: 'Crimson Spire', 'Love's Magic'), bred by Kordes, 1991.

`Burgund '81®' (synonyms: `Kordes' Rose Burgund', 'Loving Memory', 'Red Cedar', 'The Macarthur Rose') has delightful velvety red blooms that flower all summer, but it is only lightly scented. This rose looks lovely as a standard in a pot on the patio.

FLOWERING: Repeat bloomer; double; 0 10-12 cm (4-5 in velvety dark red; powerful scent

GROWTH: 80-100 cm (32-39 in) high; very upright

FEATURES: Robust; great scent; lovely cut rose; hardy

PLANTING: For flowerbeds, scented beds and borders 

INTRODUCED: Meilland, 1979, France

The Ultimate Pleasure Of Growing Flowers

Spiraea Douglasii Douglas spirea, Western spirea

With its wide, fluffy, pink flower panicles, you can't fail to like S. douglasii. Along with the narrowly oblong foliage, which it loses in winter, it actually brings a breath of summer romance to the yard. Preferring full sun, it can be used as a flowering hedge or colorful filler for green group plantings. The tirelessly persistent flowerer can cope with any soil. Pruning is not strictly necessary; it is sufficient to thin out the shrub from time to time. In short, it is a truly easy-going specimen. There are also spring-flowering varieties of Spiraea that bear white flowers.

Spiraea Japonica "Goldflame" Japanese spirea

The compact, deciduous "Goldflame" with its vibrant, deep pink blooms will produce an impressive carpet of flowers when planted in clumps. However, it is also perfect for use as border hedging. Its leaves are almost bronze when young, turning yellow green in time. The foliage turns a coppery color in fall. The plant flowers on branches of the previous year's growth and should therefore be cut back slightly in spring before the leaves shoot. It has the same location requirements as S. douglasii.

Sorbus Folgneri "Lemon Drop" Chinese haw

Elegantly hanging branches along with a beautiful, reddish-golden, fall color and wide, yellow berries are the main attractions of this variety. The genus is known as rowan. It likes moist, well-drained, fertile soil.

All The Basics About Trees And Flowers

Miniature rose

Pretty "Bluenette" displays lilac to violet shades. Its low, compact growth makes it ideal for pots and window-boxes. It flowers several times a season and has a very faint scent.

Rosa 'Angela Rippon" 'Ocaru") Syn. R. "Ocarina" Miniature rose

From summer to fall, the rose to salmon-pink, urn-shaped, double flowers appear against the dark green foliage. This rose is erect in growth and a repeat bloomer.

Rosa "Baby. Faurax" Miniature rose

"Baby Faurax" displays little rosette-shaped double flowers in dense clusters, flowering throughout the season. Low, bushy growth with dense, matt green foliage. Repeat bloomer.

Rosa "Mandarin" ("Korcelin") Miniature rose

The densely-growing, compact "Mandarin" is one of the most attractive of the low-growing roses. Its very unusual color mixture of salmon pink, carmine, and orange does indeed give it something of the color of a mandarin orange. It has a light, sweet scent and flowers almost continuously.

Rosa "Zwergkonig 78" Miniature rose

This tried and tested, compact miniature rose brings out its pretty, double, glowing blood-red flowers in loose clusters throughout the summer. The flowers are quite weather-resistant and will survive even longer showers of rain. Blooms several times.

Rosa “Nozomi" Syn. R. "Heiderosiem Nozomi”  Groundcover rose

The mother-of-pearl colored flowers have a slight scent of musk. The effect is of delicate porcelain bowls that, in summer, cover the plant entirely. Up to almost 5 feet (1.5 meter) wide Flowers once per season.

Rosa "Pink Spray" ("Lenspra") Groundcover rose

Probably the most important quality of this prostrate little rose is the profusion of its flowers. The enchanting dark pink blooms with the pale centers and golden stamens completely cover the plant when it flowers. The flowers are followed by cinnabar-red rosehips. Flowers once per season.

Rosa "Bluenette" Miniature rose

Pretty "Bluenette" displays lilac to violet shades. Its low, compact growth makes it ideal for pots and window-boxes. It flowers several times a season and has a very faint scent.

Rosa 'Angela Rippon" 'Ocaru") Syn. R. "Ocarina" Miniature rose

From summer to fall, the rose to salmon-pink, urn-shaped, double flowers appear against the dark green foliage. This rose is erect in growth and a repeat bloomer.

Rosa "Baby. Faurax" Miniature rose

"Baby Faurax" displays little rosette-shaped double flowers in dense clusters, flowering throughout the season. Low, bushy growth with dense, matt green foliage. Repeat bloomer.

Rosa "Mandarin" ("Korcelin") Miniature rose

The densely-growing, compact "Mandarin" is one of the most attractive of the low-growing roses. Its very unusual color mixture of salmon pink, carmine, and orange does indeed give it something of the color of a mandarin orange. It has a light, sweet scent and flowers almost continuously.

Rosa "Zwergkonig 78" Miniature rose

This tried and tested, compact miniature rose brings out its pretty, double, glowing blood-red flowers in loose clusters throughout the summer. The flowers are quite weather-resistant and will survive even longer showers of rain. Blooms several times.

Rosa “Nozomi" Syn. R. "Heiderosiem Nozomi”  Groundcover rose

The mother-of-pearl colored flowers have a slight scent of musk. The effect is of delicate porcelain bowls that, in summer, cover the plant entirely. Up to almost 5 feet (1.5 meter) wide Flowers once per season.

Rosa "Pink Spray" ("Lenspra") Groundcover rose

Probably the most important quality of this prostrate little rose is the profusion of its flowers. The enchanting dark pink blooms with the pale centers and golden stamens completely cover the plant when it flowers. The flowers are followed by cinnabar-red rosehips. Flowers once per season.

Tips And Ideas For Garden Lovers

Primula Bulleyana Candelabra primrose

This exceedingly striking, semi-evergreen candelabra primrose, with up to seven tiers, opens its whorled flowers from bottom to top. The flowers are initially red orange, but later fade to a warm yellow tone. Likes semi-shaded, moist, slightly acid soils.

Primula Denticulata Drumstick primrose

The spherical, violet flower umbels of the drumstick primrose, whose flower stems can grow up to 1 foot (30 centimeters) high above the leaf rosettes, are truly enchanting. The drumstick primroses prefer a semi-shaded site with moist humus soil.

Primula Elatior Oxlip

P. elatior, also known as the oxlip, bears umbels of two to twelve yellow flowers on upright stems. Likes moist, humus-rich soil. Semi-evergreen.

Primula Farinosa Birdeye primrose

The lilac-colored flower umbels of P. farinosa are covered with a white "flour," hence the botanical name. Prefers moist, slightly acidic, humus soil.

Primula  Auricula, Primrose, Cowslip

Everyone knows the small, pretty Primula hybrids which, with their vivid, brightly- colored show of flowers, herald the start of spring very early in the year. The word "primula" does after all come from the word for "first." Besides these popular, mainly cushion-forming, classics, there are also a large number of other Primula species which bloom in a truly astounding variety of forms: in layers, umbels, globes, and even in elongated spikes.

Most of the species love semi-shaded positions, but some will also tolerate sun, provided that the soil is adequately moist, as Primulas appreciate a moist, cool site. For this reason, care must be taken to ensure that the soil is kept constantly moist without causing water logging. A little fertilizer in the spring will promote flowering. In places with very harsh weather conditions, a protective blanket of spruce branches or a fairly thick layer of foliage will help with overwintering. The diversity of forms means that they can be used in different ways: as woodland-edge or water-edge plantings, in beds and rock gardens, or even as pot plants.

Gardening With More Flowers

Paeonia Lactiflora Hybrid "Krinkled White' Chinese peony

The cup-shaped, white, slightly-crinkled flowers of "Krinkled White" with their radiant golden-yellow centers produce a delicate effect, almost as though they were assembled from thin tissue paper. This long-lived hybrid perennial prefers to grow undisturbed in full sun and on rich in nutrients, moist soil. Waterlogged soil should definitely be avoided. Water during dry periods and feed occasionally.

2ft.2in,— 3ft.

Paeonia Mlokosewitschii Caucasian peony

peony has a rather modest appearance, but is lemon-yellow single flowers, which a short period only in late spring, rise slightly hairy, divided foliage, in the sun takes on a red tinge. The mature seed capsules are particularly handsome. Also tolerates positions out of direct sun.

Paeonia "Coral Charm" Peony

“coral Charm" is captivating, with its incredibly enchanting flowers in a coral peach tone which is considered extremely e in peonies. The gardener's heart will be gladdened all the more by the fact that the magnificent semi-double "Coral Charm" o comes with a large, full flower head. unusual coloration has earned "Coral charm" a place as a feature plant. This vigorous hybrid prefers a rich in nutrients, 1st, well-drained soil and likes to be left undisturbed.

Trees And Shrubs Gardening Information

Lavandula Angustifolia English lavender

Robust, low-maintenance with a naturally wonderful fragrance. The evergreen shrub with its fragrant, dark purple flowers, rich in nectar, and its aromatic, gray-green foliage is irresistible not only to bees; lavender is also an ideal accompaniment to roses, keeping greenflies away and also acting as a windbreaker in winter. Yet it also works its Mediterranean charm as a low-edging plant, in herb gardens or simply in a pot. In terms of location, a sandy, chalky, well-drained soil is perfect. Lavender is adapted to dry environments and therefore needs little water. Only the flowered shoots should be cut back in the fall after flowering. Cutting back hard in spring promotes nice, bushy growth and prevents the plant from becoming too woody. Tip: sachets filled with the dried flower heads keep wardrobes free from clothes moths. To dry the flower heads, cut the flowering shoots at the start of the flowering season and hang them upside down.

Laurus Nobilis Bay laurel, sweet bay

The classical, evergreen, Mediterranean culinary and decorative plant is a delight with its excellent tolerance of clipping and its elegant appearance, particularly alongside other formally trimmed plants, such as Buxus. Because it is only moderately hardy, L. nobilis should preferably be kept as a container plant in cold regions. It likes cool, dry winter quarters in the semi-dark. It can only be planted out in the yard in mild climates, where it prefers a moist, water-bearing soil and shelter from winds. The aromatic essential oils contained in the shiny, dark green leaves are also widely used in cooking. Clip into shape, branch by branch, after flowering.

Lavandula Angustifolia "Hidcote" English lavender

The dense flower spikes and strong, deep purple flowers of "Hidcote" create a beautiful contrast with the

Green Walls And Sumptuous Curtains Of Flowers

Festuca Glauca Blue fescue

Blue fescue's striking steel-blue slender foliage can compete with that of any other grass species. Its small blue tufts are ideal for creating interesting color contrast. The tolerant nature of this grass should not be overlooked either; it withstands drought extremely well and will quickly form long- lasting ground cover on poor soil. It looks good partnered with heathers or rock garden plants and is suitable as edging long borders. The main requirement is that t should be planted in a sunny location. summer, panicles emerge with violet-tinted blue-gray spikes. To maintain color and growing power, divide every two to three years in spring.

Festuca Mairet Atlas fescue

Atlas fescue is an evergreen grass with slender gray-green arching leaves. In summer airy sprays of flowering panicles soar above the undemanding plant that tolerates most soils. Coverlightly in winter to give protection.

tlas fescue

Festuca Scoparia“Pic Carit" Bearskin fescue

This miniature version of the bearskin fescue forms an almost perfect moss-like, grass-green carpet. An ideal plant for rock gardens.

Festuca Mairei

Atlas fescue is an eaves In summer, foliage. It is an evergreen grass with slender gray-green arching airy sprays of flowering panicles soar above the undemanding plant that tolerates most soils. Cover lightly in winter to give protection.

Festuca Glauca Blue fescue

Blue fescue's striking steel-blue slender foliage can compete with that of any other grass species. Its small blue tufts are ideal for creating interesting color contrast. The tolerant nature of this grass should not be overlooked either; it withstands drought extremely well and will quickly form long- lasting ground cover on poor soil. It looks good partnered with heathers or rock garden plants and is suitable as edging long borders. The main requirement is that t should be planted in a sunny location. summer, panicles emerge with violet-tinted blue-gray spikes. To maintain color and growing power, divide every two to three years in spring.

Festuca Scoparia “Pic carlit” bearskin fesque

This miniature version of the bearskin fescue forms an almost perfect moss-like, grass-green carpet. An ideal plant for rock gardens.

Trees And Shrubs Gardening Information

Buxus Sempervirens European box, common box

The Buxus sempervirens takes its time and needs many years to grow into a handsome shrub. It is worth the wait, though, because the evergreen European box is one of the most versatile, well-loved garden plants around. One of its most popular features is its small, egg-shaped, leathery leaves and its adaptability, because it can easily be clipped into any artificial shape or size desired. Although its yellowish, sometimes greenish, clusters of small fragrant flowers are fairly inconspicuous, they still attract swarms of bugs. Thanks to its tolerance of clipping, it can be used multifariously in both formal and natural planting—either as a hedge or to edge a bed, as evergreen background planting for roses and shrubs or as a figurative artistic shape standing alone for striking effect. Also worth mentioning is its tremendous adaptability to different positions, provided the soil is rich in humus and well drained. Take care: all plant parts, particularly the bark and leaves, are extremely poisonous.

Callistemon Citrinus Crimson bottlebrush

This shrub takes its name from its profusion of spectacular, blazing, crimson-red flowers. Apart from its blossom—the second blossom in late summer is not quite as lavish—the tough, evergreen leaves add to its beauty. It is happy in full sun and moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It is only suitable for yards in frost-free regions and can be cultivated to some extent as a container plant.

Calamagrostis X Acutiflora "Karl Forster" Feather reed grass

This masterpiece of a grass with its richly- blooming, feathery-flowering panicles is a wonderful eye-catcher when planted in borders between low shrubs and perennials. It is also the ideal choice for planting in open spaces in wild gardens. "Karl Forster" is absolutely beautiful in the fall when its blossoms and stems take on a warm ruddy to tan glow. This striking grass makes an attractive guest in the yard until long into winter. Wait till spring to cut back the flowering stems, as they remain extremely decorative, otherwise further maintenance is unnecessary. This luxuriant grass prefers sun or light shade with moist, humus-rich soil. Propagate this generous all-rounder in spring by division. Grows in compact clumps so it is unlikely to spread. Tip: the flowers last well in dried arrangements.

Gardening With Herbaceous Perennials Plants

Delphinium "Ariel" Elatum group Candle larkspur

Broad, light blue blooms with a white eye. Growing to a height of around 4 feet 4 inches (1.3 meter), "Ariel" is one of the smaller cultivars in the Elatum group.

Delphinium "Butterball" Elatum group

The small "Butterball" differs from the— admittedly very pretty—blue standard, with its mass of semi-double, creamy-white flowers with yellow centers.

Delphinium "Faust" Elatum group

The long, semi-double flower spikes come in a magical dark cornflower blue, lightly tinged with purple.

Delphinium "Fnsteraarhorn" Elatum group

The single, gentian-blue blooms with their mysterious black centers are enchanting in every way. The flower stems are not susceptible to wind damage.

Delphinium Larkspur

During its flowering period, the larkspur, with its distinctive, long, dense flower spikes, is right at the center of events. This "blue classic" comes in a variety of different shades, from creamy- white and light yellow through pink to various tones of blue and violet. As well as the wild varieties, which are suitable for informal and rock gardens, there are three distinct groups of hybrids. The largest and most important group is that of the Elatum hybrids, which has produced particularly robust, long-lived plants. Belladonna hybrids have a relatively low habit, up to around 3 feet 4 inches (1 meter) and loose flower panicles. The short-lived Pacific hybrids have a short flowering period, but large, semi- double blooms.

Larkspurs love sunny places, preferably sheltered from the wind, and a fertile, deep, well-drained soil. They are typically planted at the back of an herbaceous border. If you cut them back after the first flowering, they will flower again in late summer. Tall varieties require support. Take care: seeds and leaves are poisonous.

Delphinium “Polarnacht" Elatum group Candle larkspur

A rigidly  upright-growing, small Elatum hybrid with spikes of violet flowers with white centers. It produces a very strong impact at a distance and makes a beautifully decorative cut flower.

Delphinium "Skyline" Elatum group Candle larkspur

The large, white eyes, lightly tinged with blue, contrast beautifully with the semi-double, sky-blue flowers.

Delphinium grandifiorum 'Blue Butterfly" Siberian larkspur

D. grandifiorum is larkspur's miniature version. This loosely branching perennial is extremely short-lived, and so it is often treated as an annual or biennial, but it does self-seed. The brilliant blue flowers of "Blue Butterfly" contrast beautifully with the finely-lobed, dark green foliage. This plant's low-growing habit makes it suitable even for exposed situations.

Delphinium "Astolat" Pacific group

The American hybrid can be propagated by seed. This variety has very large-bloomed flower heads with densely-packed, semi- double, pink to lilac blooms. Outstanding cut flower.

Gardening With Annual Plants

Alcea Rosea "Nigra" Black hollyhock

The flowers of A. rosea, with their deep, dark red, almost black shimmer, have a distinctly magical effect. This marvel of dark color will look its fascinating best in large cottage or herb gardens. Hollyhocks are happiest in full sunlight and in moderately fertile, very well- drained soil. In exposed places, they need the support of a stick to prevent the flower spikes bending or snapping. In dry locations, ensure the plant receives plenty of water.

Bellis Perennis Lawndaisy

The cheeky little double flower heads, pink, white, or red, peer out of flowerbeds or containers in the spring. This sturdy cultivated variety looks nothing like the wild European daisy. A charming, somehow old-fashioned plant, it is cultivated as a biennial and loves sunny to semi-shady spots in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. You can extend the flowering period by removing the dead blooms. Little Be//is also looks very pretty in small bouquets or posies.

Campanula medium Canterbury bells

With loose racemes of large, bell-shaped flowers, double or single, in blue, white, or pink, Canterbury bells appear to be ringing in the summer. The lavish profusion of flowers of this popular cottage garden plant makes it a worthwhile addition to flowerbeds and borders in natural look gardens. But it also makes an especially decorative cut flower. It demands nothing more than a nutrient-rich, moist but well-drained soil and watering on dry days.

Dianthus Chinensis Hybrid "Charm Scarlet" Hybrid pink, Chinese pink

The single-flowered, compact "Charm Scarlet," one of the Charm series, has brilliant scarlet flowers on sturdy stems, and displays them throughout the entire summer. The numerous hybrids of the Chinese pink look their best when planted en masse in flowerbeds, particularly as borders or edging, or in containers. In a sunny location and a nutrient-rich soil, these biennials will need little care.

Dianthus Barbatus  Sweet  william

This splendidly colorful cottage garden plant is a grateful bloomer. However, its beautiful, old-fashioned, romantic look only really comes into effect when planted in a group. A bushy, short-lived plant, cultivated as a biennial, sweet william forms dense, flat clumps, 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 centimeters) across, composed of many small, single or double, sweetly scented, and often also two- colored flowers in white, pink, salmon pink, or scarlet. D. barbatus is an outstanding and long-lasting cut flower, and is very simple to cultivate. Propagate by seed—sweet  william tends to self-seed—or young seedlings. A frost protection mulch of brushwood is recommended for the winter. This plant likes a fresh soil rich in nutrients.

Digitalis Ferruginea Subsp. Ferruginea Rusty foxglove

The biennial rusty foxglove—in certain favored locations, it can be a perennial—is one of the largest Digitalis species. It develops a truly impressive flower head made up of innumerable exotic-looking, golden-brown, bell-shaped flowers, with reddish-brown veining on the inside. In the yard, the rusty foxglove prefers dry and sunny spots with nutrient-rich soil. In the first year after sowing, only a rosette of leaves will appear, but in the second year you can admire the marvelous flowers. This plant self-seeds. Take care: all parts of this plant are poisonous.

Useful Flower Guide For Gardening

Dahlia "Cha Cha" Semi-cactus dahlia

A  truly attractive, play of colors for your yard or your vase. Flower head 5 inches  12 centimeters) across'.

Dahlia "Melody Gypsy" Semi-cactus dahlia

The small-flowered, medium-height "Melody Gypsy" looks radiant in pale rose pink with a little yellow center. It makes a good cut flower. Flower head 5  inches (12 centimeters) across.

Dahlia "Nut d'Ete" Semi-cactus dahlia

In the darkest wine red, almost black at the center, "Nut d'Ete" brings a hint of shade to the most brilliant sunlight. Flower head 5  inches (12 centimeters) across.

Dahlia "Bishop of Llandaff" Peony dahlia

Peony dahlias are like single-flowered varieties, but have more than one ring of florets. "Bishop of Llandaff" is a true classic: a brilliant red flower with contrasting dark leaves. Flower head  4 inches (10 centimeters) across.

Dahlia "Classic Masquerade" Peony dahlia

It has no need to hide. The red flame-like streaks on the terracotta to orange background are truly eye-catching. It looks particularly attractive with its purple to black leaves. Flower head 4 inches  (10 centimeters) across.

Dahlia "Classic Rosamunde" Peony dahlia

The warm pink  to purple petals make for a friendly atmosphere. The dark leaves form a decorative contrast. Flower head 4 inches  (10 centimeters) across.

Dahlia "Promise" Laciniated dahlia

Laciniated dahlias are cactus dahlias with petals that are split or serrated at the ends."Promise" Is a sulfur-yellow variety with such split-tipped petals.

Eremurus x isabellinus "Pinokkio" Foxtail lily

Stiffly upright, pointing skyward like a rocket before blast-off, "Pinokkio" is an ornament to the summer garden. The densely- packed individual flowers on the truly impressive flower stalk glow in coppery yellow to orange shades in front of dark trees and shrubs or in flowerbeds. Their essential requirement is for a sunny, warm, and wind-sheltered spot on well-drained soil rich in nutrients, with no risk of water logging. After flowering, cut the flower stalks back to halfway down the stem. Mulch in winter with leaves  and brushwood. If necessary, also protect the leaf shoots in the spring from cold weather damage. As the root stocks are friable, care is advisable when planting. Plant in late summer. Do not divide the rhizome until three or four years have passed. Makes  an attractive cut flower.

Eranthis hyemalis Winter aconite

This sturdy little marvel will cheer up a melancholy spring garden with a scented carpet of flowers in almost blinding yellow. It is an undemanding little plant and has few requirements where soil and care are concerned. In semi-shade or light spring shade, it will spread—through bulblets or seed—along the borders of shrubbery or woodland, under bushes or on scanty lawns. Plant in the fall. The bulbs are very sensitive to dehydration, so do not store. Take care: all parts of the plant, particularly the bulb, are poisonous. Tip: E. hyemalis is an excellent source of food for bees.

Erythronium "Citronella" Dogtooth violet

The rather unflattering common name was given to this airy crown-shaped beauty because of its egg-shaped, whitish bulb, which does indeed resemble a dog's canine tooth. The delicate yellow pendent flowers with their dark yellow anthers will reward a site in semi-shade and fertile, humus soil by plentiful flowering. Keep the plants moist during the growth period, but avoid water logging, and keep them rather drier after flowering. In areas with a harsh climate, a winter mulch of leaves and brushwood is required. Propagate in late summer by means of bulblets and seeds. This plant has decorative foliage.

Post-Planting Care of Plants

WEEDING

Any unwanted plantation in a crop is a weed. Weeds grow with great vigour and pose a serious threat to the survival of the crop as they compete for space, sunlight and nutrients much needed by the plants. Therefore, weeds should be removed as soon as they are spotted

Irrigate the bed prior to weeding so as to make the soil loose; never try weeding in dry and hard soil, as it will be difficult to remove the weed from its root. Weeding must be done at regular intervals prior to seed formation. Dispose the weeds into a pit dug separately in the corner of the house. When they are dry, burn them to ensure that they do not grow again. Some common weeds are motha (Cyperus rotundus) and oxalis, etc.

In a home garden chemical control should be avoided because of dense population of the seasonal flowers leaving no free space in between the weeds and the flowers. It is not commercially viable to spray expensive chemicals in small beds of home garden. Chemical control is more effective on broad-leaved weeds and during summer when the weeds are weak and dehydrated. While applying the spray ensure that the weather is calm (not windy) and any wanted plantation is not in immediate vicinity. Keep the nozzle of the spray pump vertically to the ground so that the spread does not move and damage the adjoining vegetation.

A very successful method to check the germination of weeds is spreading of a perforated synthetic sheet over the soil beds. As the sheet is porous it permits aeration of soil and ensures drainage and also discourages weed propagation.

Hoeing is done at optimum soil moisture conditions to improve air-water relation in root zone soil and to eliminate weeds. Expose the soil to the sun as the sunlight enriches the soil and kills harmful bacteria. Hoe the flower beds before irrigation.

Design Your Home Garden With Flowers

Tithonia rotundifolia

COMMON NAME---------------------Mexican Sunflower

                     Family-----------------------------------Compositae

Raising of Seedling------------------April-May; August-September

Transplanting Month----------------July-August; October-November

                      Planting Distance----------------------60 cm x 60 cm

                     Height of Plant-------------------------Tall: 120-180 cm

                     Flowering Month---------------------- August-September; February-March

                    Colours-------------------------------  Yellow and orange-red

                    Soil------------------------------------Light

                    Sunlight--------------------------------Full

                    Irrigation------------------------------Normal

                   Suitable For---------------------------Beddings, borders, hedges, screening, shrubs

and as cut flowers

Tithonia rotundifolia is a tall, hardy, brittle stalked, free-flowering showy annual. The leaves are large, rough and heart-shaped. The single large orange-red flower with tufted yellow centre resembles the single Dahlia. Flowers are borne on the long stalk, 8-10 cm in size where the single petals are grouped around the yellow centres. Tithonia rotundifolia has its origin in Mexico and is therefore known as Mexican Sunflower. A well manured light soil with little care brings the flowers in profusion within 90 days.

The flowers are widely used as cut flowers and are most suitable for screening. Mexican Sunflower is popular for its mass effect.

Senecio cruentus

COMMON NAME------------------Cineraria

Family-------------------------------Compositae

Raising of Seedling--------------- September-October Transplanting Month-------------- October-November

                    Planting Distance -----------------------30 cm x 30 cm

                    Height of Plant--------------------------Medium: 45 cm

                    Flowering Month------------------------February-March

                   Colours-----------------------------------White, blue, purple, pink, lavender and scarlet

                   Soil--------------------------------------Medium

                   Sunlight--------------------------------- Full/Partial

                  Irrigation-------------------------------- Normal

                  Suitable For-----------------------------Beddings, pots and as cut flowers

Senecio cruentus is a medium size bushy annual having large heart-shaped velvety leaves. The flowers are compact, daisy-like or star-shaped. They are of brilliant colours and appear in clusters at the top of the branches. They may be marked with a matching or contrasting white centre lending them an attractive look.

The minute seeds are mixed with equal quantity of sand and then broadcast in the nursery beds. Propagation multiplication is also done by stem cutting and division of old plant and roots. While preparing the nursery medium, add a small quantity of sand, leaf mould and little wood ash in the soil. Seedlings are picked when the first leaf appears and later transferred into flower beds at four leaf stages. Shade from strong sunlight and wind is essential for the plant. Cineraria thrives on long winters but also needs care from frost. It grows well in shade but three to four hours of sunshine is essential for this slow growing plant. When the buds start appearing, a mild dose of liquid manure improves the quality of the flowers. It is grown in March-April in the northern hills where a second bloom can be achieved by cutting down the stem to 3-4 cm from the surface followed by a top dressing.

Cineraria should be preffered to be sown direct. It grows best in shady locations and is most suited for pot cultivation.