Shop, 6; Children s ActiVitI{ Page, 10; Centre s BookshoEI), 12: Program Corner, 14; Book Review, 14; Coming Events of International Interest, 28.
The Front Cover
The Japanese Tea Garden located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California. Photo by Sid Morris.
Publication Committee for Trellis
Lawrence C. Sherk (Chairman), Gilbert A. Milne, Ernie Pope, Mrs. E. Redelmeier and Mrs. JJR.M. Wilson.
Editor Sid Morris
General Information
% 7 Trellis is published in the months of March, April, May, June, September and November and distributed on or about the 15th of the month previous by the Civic Garden Centre, 777 Lawrence Avenue East, Don Mills, Ontario M3C 1P2. The centre is located in Edwards Gardens, at Leslie Street and Lawrence Avenue East, the geographical centre of Metropolitan Toronto. It is a non-profit gardening and floral arts information organization with open membership. Subscriptions to Trellis are only available through Centre membership ($5 per year). Opinions expressed within do not necessarily reflect those of the Centre. This is Volume 3, Number 1.
You are Invited To Join Telephone
What it is
e A non-profit gardening and floral arts centre for the dissemination of information to amateur gardeners and flower-arrangers
e An open membership body with over 3,000 keen gardener-members (from rank amateurs to advanced professionals)
e Home of six gardening clubs or groups with specific gardening interests
e Meeting place for specialized plant societies from Bonsai to Roses
e Home of some of the best flower arrangers in North America (quoted from U.S.A. author and editor, Helen Van Pelt Wilson)
What it does
e Operates Canada s most complete public horticultural library
e Responds to over 3,000 gardening questions annually
e Organizes garden talks and demonstrations on a variety of subjects and at different levels
e Teaches non-commercial flower arranging at various levels and encourages competition amongst members
e Carries on an extensive flower-drying programme to extend garden beauty through into the winter months economically
e Operates a Speakers Panel Bureau which brings panels of experts on various subjects to groups desirous of an informative programme
e Publishes booklets on various subjects; e.g. Preserving Beautiful Flowers
e Stages two flower shows each year and hosts numerous others
What members receive
e Six issues per year of Trellis
e Free borrowing privileges from the 3,000-volume library
e Ten per cent discount off all purchases (of books and gardening and floral arts supplies) bought from the Centre
e Opportunity to join one or more specialized member groups or clubs
e Discounts off all courses offered at the Centre
e Free admission to Members Nights held at least twice per year
| wish to be recorded as a member in the above category and enclose my cheque for [ ]Please accept the additional amount as a donation towards your program.
NAME PHONE
ADDRESS
John Bradshaw s Perfect Lawn Program with the new, S.C.U. -
based fertilizers
f" e more economical § e more efficient
For the Perfect Lawn Program apply 10 lbs/1000 W sq. ft. of special CIL plant foods four times a year (40 Ibs./1000 sq. ft. per season), and eliminate weeds, insects and lawn diseases. Choose the four applications which fit your needs from these quality products and apply at 10 Ibs./1000 sq. ft.
e CIL Golfgreen 18-6-9
Apply as soon as snow melts. Repeat feeding during season as required.
CIL Crab Grass DoctorTM.18-6-9
For crab grass infested lawns apply as soon as snow melts instead of Golfgreen. Repeat application in August to kill Poa Annua.
CiL Lawn Insect Doctor -M.18-6-9 Kills Chinch Bug and White Grub. Apply in May-June or July-August.
CIL Lawn Weed Doctor 18-6-9 Kills broadleaved weeds. Apply May-June or August.
CIL Winierizer®s-12-24
Conditions lawns, trees and shrubs against overwintering problems. Apply September-October
CIL Winterizer /Weeder 6-12-24
Conditions lawns against overwintering problems and kills broadleaved weeds. Apply September or early October.
Lawn
& Garden Products
*INTEREST
Toomuchgarbage! This is whatprompted environment award winner, Tony Barrett, to bet environment Minister George Kerr $1,500 that he couldnot talk 30key Queen s Park politicians into reducing their family garbage by 50%. This was the start of the Great Garbage Gamble , to get the Ministers to set an example by separating at source and because as much as 40% ofkitchen and yard waste can be composted, the Great Garbage Gambler took 30 compost bins to the Legislature on a horsedrawn haywagon. For each politician there was an added gift, a bag of bull manure, an excellent source of nitrogen for starting a compost pile!
Good composting materials to use from the garden include grass clippings, leaves, weeds and shrub and plant trimmings. Useful household wastes include potato and other peelings, egg shells, tea bags, coffee grounds, even old cotton rags. Composting is the ideal way to recycle all this organic waste into valuable fertiliser which costs you nothing and will benefit your plants tremendously. The compost will supply plants with soluable nutrients with all the nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium they need as well as many other minerals. The resultant plants are resistant to disease, vegetables have good flavour, colour and reproductive capacity. Compost is a completely natural and wholesome substance; it can be used as a weed free mulch to protect plants from cold and drought so you will need to weed and water less. It is also an excellent soil conditioner, adding fibrous qualities to the soil, preventing cracking, caking anderosion, encouraging beneficial earthworms which aerate the soil and enrich it with their casts.
Compost making is not an unpleasant chore. In fact you will find great satisfaction in converting worthless wastes into a valuable soil-conditioning plant food. Your flowers, plants and vegetables will show their appreciation, too.
For a free 18 page booklet on how to make rich, clean odorless compost in as little as six weeks using the award-winning Rotocrop Accelerator bins write:
Tony Rothschild, Rotocrop Canada Ltd., 361 King Street East, Toronto, Ont. MS5SA 1L1, or call (416) 368-5769.
Gift Shop by Betty Billes
Now, when the excitement of the holiday season is over, we all feel sort of let down. This is the time when we should start looking towards spring and thinking of our spring bulbs crocus, hyacinth, narcissus, Wedgewood Iris along with the usual tulips and daffodils that we have already brought in for forcing.
It is a time when we shouldn t forget our feathered friends who, because of the snow that we have all been shovelling, must be having a hard time finding enough food to exist. In the garden shop, we carry an array of bird feeders. These are the hanging variety that can be used on the trees or the eaves ofyour home. We also carry the feed for refills. With spring in mind, your Gift Shop is readying itselffor the Gift Show. You will notice our stock is at low ebb but we look forward to new and better selection of merchandise in the coming months. If you see a special article, that you think we should carry, in another shop, write down its name, description, price and any additional information you can learn about it. Hand this information in to Mrs. Lirette and we will certainly investigate it. If feasible we will try to obtain the article for our shop.
As you know Mrs. Brooks, who has been our Volunteer Co-ordinator, is now retired from her position. We are looking for more volunteers who would be interested in working in the shop. Please leave your name and phone number with Mrs. Lirette. Spring, Spring, Beautiful Spring. Look for your shop display at the Toronto Garden Club s Spring Flower Show, March 10-14. Look forward to seeing you there!
D. QUERIPEL & SON
Mrs. Betty Billes is chairwoman of the shop committee, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Civic Garden Centre.
Forcing Woody Plant Materials
Now is the time to bring spring indoors. You can accomplish this feat by forcing branches cut from trees and shrubs in your yard.
Select branches that have plenty of large, robust flower buds. You can usually distinguish flower buds from leaf buds by noting that flower buds are plump and round, while leaf buds are usually slim and pointed.
Young branches that are 1 or 2 years old are best for forcing. Select branches from the south side of the plant as the buds are usually more advanced than buds on the north side ofthe plant. Gather enough branches to create an attractive arrangement.
Before placing branches in a container that has about 12 cm. (5 in.) of water in it, crush the stems, for the first or cm. (3 or 4 in.), so the stems can absorb more water. Keep the stems in a dark room that has a temperature of approximately 10° to 12° Celsius (55°F). To prevent the branches from drying out they should be sprayed occasionally with water. As the buds begin to show color, place the branches in the desired location.
When forcing trees and shrubs during February and March, allow 10 to 20 days for the branches to come into bloom. Forsythia will bloom in about 10 days after they have been brought indoors. Some other woody plants that can be forced are bridlewreath spirea, Spirea vanhouttei; forsythis, Forsythia spp.; Japanese flowering cherry, Prunus serrulata Kwanzan ; Japanese flowering quince, Chaenomeles japonica; pussy willow, Salix spp.; serviceberry, Amaelanchier canadensis. YOUR AD can appear here for as little as $168 per year!
PEFFERLAW PEAT COMPOSTED MANURE/ PEAT MIX
The ideal soil mix correctly balanced to fill the needs of all growing plants indoors or out.
G. T. STRAIN & SON
Cannington, Ont. Phone (Toronto) 364-6068
If it s about Gardening... askToronto s Civic Garden Centre. Membership, including six issues per year of TRELLIS only $5 for 12 months.
The Civic Garden Centre located at 777 Lawrence Ave. E., is open to the public
Monday through Friday 9.30 am to 4 pm Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 1 pm-4pm (Closed Sundays Feb.)
EXTENDED OPENING HOURS DURING MARCH, 1976
Monday, March 1st 7 pm to 9 pm
Tuesday, March 2nd 7 pm to 9 pm
Saturday, March 6th 10 am to 4 pm
Wednesday, March-10th 7 pm to 9 pm
Monday, March 15th 7 pm to 9 pm
Tuassday, March 16 7 pm to 9 pm
Saturday, March 20 10 am to 4 pm
Monday, March 22 7 pm to 9 pm
Monday, March 29 7 pm to 9 pm
CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE PLANTERAMA
a major FUND RAISING EVENT supported by Groups and Societies who meet at the Centre . ..
PROCEEDS in aid of Centre programs; donations of plant material, cuttings, seeds or other useful gardening items i.e.; pots, vases, tools, etc. are solicited from members
May 14 Friday 4 pm. to 9 p.m.
May 15 Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
gardening guide for canadians
all you need to know to grow, eat and store vegetables in Canada
4 Wall Charts
clear and easy access to facts organic insect control natural fertilizers companion planting etc.
available at Civic Garden Centre or by mail send $5.95 M.O. to:
good gardening
1205 bathurst street
toronto ontario m5r 3h3
Some recent additions to the centre s library
Pamela MacKenzie
For the gardener:
Bloom, A. Collingridge Guide to Garden Plants in Colour.
Faust, J. L., ed. The New York Times Book of Indoor and Outdoor Gardening Questions.
Fenten, D. X. Gardening . . . Naturally. Frederick, W. H. 100 Great Garden Plants.
Gerard, J. The Herbal (Reference, Facsimile reprint of 2nd ed., 1633).
Gorer, R. The Flower Garden in England (Historical).
Harris, C. C. Trees and Shrubs in the Modern Garden.
Harris, D. Hydroponics.
Hay, R. Dictionary of Indoor Plants in Colour.
Hunt, P.The Garden Lover s Companion.
Langer, R. W. Grow it Indoors.
Tampion, J. Gardener s Practical Botany.
Tarrant, D. Highrise Horticulture.
Willis, P., ed. Furor Hortensis (History of landscaping).
Wolgensinger, B. and Daidone, J. Town Gardens.
For the flower lover:
Bugbee, A. S. How to Dry Flowers the Easy Way.
Chase, H. Flower Arranging.
Love, D. Flowers are Fabulous for Decorating.
Nicol, K. Flowers for Pleasure.
Robinson, H. Pressed Plants as an Art.
For the junior gardener:
Hoke, J. Terrariums. (Junior)
Simon, S. Projects with Plants. (Junior)
Surcouf, L. Growing a Green Thumb. (Junior)
Mrs. MacKenzie is the Civic Garden Centre s librarian.
Remove Snow and Ice from Trees and Shrubs
T rees and shrubs are extremely tough. They can be weighed to the ground with heavy loads of snow or ice and still return to their original shape in the spring. However, in some cases, branches may be broken and the plant twisted out of shape, says D. B. McNeill, horticultural specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. A damaged shrub will take several years and careful pruning to return it to its original condition.
To avoid such damage, it is a good idea to carefully remove the ice and snow. Snow can often be removed by gently shaking the bush. Ice is more difficult to remove, particularly on young trees. Wait until the ice starts to melt, then shake it off and return the bush to its natural shape.
Whether the problem is ice or snow, remember to treat bushes and trees gently. During the winter, trunks and branches are very brittle and break easily.
WONDERLAND OF BULBS
A perusal through our illustrated Spring bulb catalogue will prove to be a revelation. A multitude of rare and interesting bulbs now available exotic jewels for your Summer garden.
C. A. CRUICKSHANK LTD.
Since 1925
Canada s Leading Bulb Specialists 1015 MOUNT PLEASANT RD. TORONTO 488-8292
FOUR STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL LAWN.
So-Green has developed an easy-to-follow, four step program that will guarantee you a beautiful lawn. Each step will be outlined in this publication during the coming months.
STEP1:MARCH/APRIL.
To get your lawn off to a fast healthy start, apply So-Green Premium 21-7-7. This formula contains all the nutrients a lawn needs after the long Canadian winter.
If you were troubled with crabgrass last year, apply SoGreen Crabgrass Killer plus 10-5-10 fertilizer now. It will kill your crabgrass and feed your lawn at the same time.
Premium is available in 50, 25 and 12 Ib. bags. Apply at the rate of 5 Ibs. per 1000 sq. ft. Crabgrass Killer is available in 40 and 20 Ib. bags and 5 Ib. boxes. Apply at the rate of 8 Ibs. per 1000 sq. ft.
For a free copy of the complete So-Green Four Step Program write to the address below.
So-Green Division, F. Manley Corporation,25Lesmill Road, Don Mills, Ontario.
Children s Activity Page
Find the Hidden Plants
Instructions for finding the hidden plants. Below the puzzle you will find the list of plants hidden in the puzzle. Circle the hidden plants named in the puzzle.
VEGETABLE SEEDS
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Growing a Carrot in the Winter
1. Get a raw carrot and remove any dead leaves.
2. Cut approximately 5 cm (2 in.) off the top end of the carrot.
3. Stand carrot top in a dish.
4. Anchor the carrot in place by surrounding it with pebbles.
5. Pour enough water into the dish to cover half the carrot.
6. Don t let the carrot dry out. Check daily for watering.
7. Soon it will produce new leaves and will look attractive for weeks.
Sid Morris Editor.
SPRING GARDENING COURSE
There is still time to register for any of the following gardening classes, part of the centre s comprehensive spring program which commenced January 19, with all of the classes held to date being well attended.
FEB. 23 GROW YOUR OWN VEGETABLES PART | o 3
Mr. Russell Gomme, Secretary Ontario Horticulture Societies, Dept. of Agriculture, will give information on preparation and planting.
MAR. 1 GROW YOUR OWN VEGETABLES PART Il 3
Mr. Murray Hutchison, Sec. East York Garden Club and Accredited Judge of Horticulture, will give talk on ongoing care.
MAR.15 PRUNING AND ESPALIERS < .
Mr. Edward Lawrence, Partner in Sligo Landscaping, learn how to beautify and conserve space at the same time.
MAR. 22 PLANTS UNDER LIGHTS
Mrs. Leni Forsdike, owner of the Plant Room in Hornby and plant consultant for Canada for Indoor Light Gardening Society of America, will illustrate her talk and have new and interesting plants on display.
MAR. 29 LANDSCAPING PART |
Mr. David Kirkpatrick, Teaching master, Landscape Design, Humber College, will give lecture on Beyond foundation planting.
APR. 5 LANDSCAPING PART Il
Mr. Richard Hook, Dean of Applied Arts, Humber College, will give lecture on Depth and dimension.
APR. 26 ALLOTMENT GARDENING
Mr. Al Higgs, Gen. Supt. of Etobicoke Parks, how to get the most out of your allotment.
MAY 3 OUTDOOR GARDEN PREPARATION
Mr, Bob Keith, Ontario Gardener, CBC Radio, will illustrate his talk giving details of soil preparation, fertilizers, bedding plants, etc.
MAY 17 THE GOLFER S GARDEN
Mr. George Sinclair, Horticulturalist, C.N.E., will show how easy it is to have a presentable garden with minimum of effort, low maintenance, easy care.
COST $3.00 for each talk for Non-members of the Centre, $2.50 for members. Members may register for all nine talks at a fee of only $18.00.
Centre s Bookshop Has Books From Bird Identification to Bonsai
Marilyn Waugh
Have any birds come to feed at your winter garden? John V. Dennis, ornithologist and biologist, has written the first book to tell you what visitors to expect at your backyard feeding station and when to expect them. This Complete Guide to Bird Feeding ($11.50) is a veritable bird lover s bible. Richly illustrated, it tells you precisely how to choose (or make) and install feeders preferred by various birds. It gives advice on how and what to stock them with to coincide with the tastes and feeding habits of all your regular visitors and some interesting passersby!
Handymen will appreciate 102 Bird Houses & Feeders You Can Make ($4.75), a book ofdetailed plans for the same.
Birds of North America by C. Robbins et al (p. $4.95, cl. $7.50), a pocket guide to field identification, should be at hand at your window to help you identify visiting birds. Also available is Roger Tory Peterson s Field Guide to Birds (p. $5.95, cl. $6.95). Audubon Land Bird Guide by Richard H. Plough ($6.95) and A Guide to Bird Watching by Joseph J. Hickey, ($3.50).
Toronto-born Barry Kent Mackay has written several books to aid the novice in identifying and appreciating birds most commonly found in Canada. Eighty More Land Birds To Know (8$3.95) gives useful information on voice, habitat, size, range and nesting area of each bird. The book contains a compact 8 page colour key for quick identification.
As this article goes to press a new book has just been received in the bookshop: Birds of the Oshawa-Lake Scugog Region - Ontario by R. G. Tozer and J. M. Richards ($9.95). Both au-
thors are enthusiastic and knowledgeable ornithologists and are eminently qualified to produce an upto-date account of the birds of the region. This book is an informative work of interest to persons ranging from the most casual birdwatcher to the professional ornithologist. We are pleased to offer for sale autographed, numbered copies of a limited first edition of this book.
For those interested in bonsai, the Bookshop stocks a good range of books on the art. If you share the Japanese love for nature and have a few hours to spend each week, bonsai would be an ideal hobby. The famous art of growing miniature trees and shrubs has been adapted specially to the soil and weather conditions of America for the first time by Japan s leading authority on the art. Bonsai with American Trees, M. Kawasumi ($11.75), is a concise practical manual containing everything you need to know about how to raise a miniature forest in your home or garden. Available by the same author is Introductory Bonsai and the Care And Use of Bonsai Tools ($5.95).
The Japanese Art of Miniature Trees and Landscapes, Y. Yashimura and G. Halford ($12.50). Step By Step Guide To Growing Bonsai Trees, J. Melville ($4.25), Bonsai, Art Of Dwarfing Trees, A. K. Pipe ($4.50) and Master s Book of Bonsai, compiled by the Directors of the Japanese Bonsai Association (810.50) are all practical guides to the art.
Creating tray landscapes can also be a fascinating hobby. Bonkei, Tray Landscapes by J. Hirata ($10.30) and Bonsai, Saikei and Bonkei by R. Behme (§7.50) provide inspiration and practical information on every aspectofcreating natural beauty in miniature by dwarfing trees.
Be sure to visit the Bookshop booth at the Spring Garden and Flower Show at the Automotive Building, C.N.E., March 10-14. We will have an excellent display and good stock of all types of horticultural books.
Mhrs. Waugh is manager ofthe Civic Garden Centre s Bookshop.
WINTERY GREENERY
Eleanor Weckman
Living in the cold northern hemisphere as we do, we cannot have lush tropical greenery out ofdoors all year round. But by the good basic planting of evergreens around our houses and buildings we can still be surrounded by a living bower ofgreen.
Whether it be an Arboratum in a public park, a backyard greenhouse, a Florida Room attached to a house, a bay window full ofgrowing plants or even a humble cold frame bursting with newly planted seeds, there is a magic to the propagation and growing ofplant life. More and more often now Isee a small greenhouse either on the grounds ofa private home or built onto a home. Those ofus who cannot afford this luxury fill bay windows with growing plants or attractive hanging planters. Planters are varied in colour, size and .shape and all are enhanced by the attractive macrame hangers sold with them. Prices range from $5.00 to $150.00. Examine them carefully before purchasing. A good ceramic pot is covered completely with glaze with no bare spots, especially on the inside. This prevents water from seeping through the clay to craze the outer surface. It is wise to check a hanging planter after watering the plants to see that the plant does not sit in a pool ofwater. This not only protects the planter but also helps prevent plant rot caused by overwatering.
One outing I never fail to enjoy in January and February is a trip to ALAN S GARDENS. Long after the Christmas season the Poinsettias continue to bloom in the Central Lobby, forming a brilliant red contrast to the sparkle ofnewly fallen snow outside. (Hybridizing ofthe Poinsettia has been a great gift to us because one Christmas plant can now last the whole winter season.) The fragrance ofthe Jasmine permeates the warm moist air and the magical blooms ofthe Camellia Japonica make the Gardens south wing a bower ofbeauty exuding memories of the old plantation houses sprinkled
throughout the southern United States. The lovely Hibiscus bloom amongst the bowers oftropical and sub-tropical growth. One need only stroll through these well-kept walks to conjure visions oflands far away.
March brings the excitement of Toronto Garden Club s Annual Flower Show. There is a magic to a flower show, especially one held during the winter months. It brings a breath of early spring. This year we are promised a bigger and better show at the Canadian National Exhibition Grounds. Bus loads ofpeople from all over Ontario enjoy this extravaganza every day it is shown.
Do take advantage ofthese two outings ifat all possible. Alan s Gardens to me is at its very best during January and February and the Toronto Garden Club s Annual Flower Show is the culmination ofconcerted effort on the part ofits 400 members to bring you a breath ofspring!
Also, when you have an opportunity, take advantage ofbrowsing through the local greenhouses. Learn to love, recognize and appreciate the beauties growing around us no matter where they may be found. Our lives can be made richer by taking a few moments to appreciate nature s gifts to mankind.
Recipe for Preserving Children
1 large grass field. 1/2 doz. children.
2 or 3 small dogs
A pinch of brook, and some pebbles.
Mix children and dogs well together. Put them in the field, and stir.
Pour brook over the pebbles and sprinkle field with flowers. Bake in hot sunshine, and when brown, remove to the bathtub.
Mrs. Weckman is an active member of the Milne House Garden Club and regular contributor to Trellis.
Program Corner
Audrey R. M. Allman
The growing of one s own vegetables is a satisfying and rewarding pastime doubly rewarding today when the cost of food seems to double each time one s back is turned. The Civic Garden Centre in an attempt to encourage its members to explore the fascinating world of the home gardener, has scheduled two lectures of particular note: They are Growing Your Own Vegetables Parts I and I1.
The first lecture, Growing Your Own Vegetables: Preparation and Planting, will be given by Mr. Russell Gomme on Monday February 23, at 1:30 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m. Mr. Gomme, a graduate of the Niagara Parks Commission School of Horticulture, is Assistant Director, Ontario Ministry ofAgriculture and Food. He is also Secretary of The Ontario Horticultural Association, the parent organization of 140 Horticultural Societies which represent almost 50,000 members. Mr. Gomme works extremely hard to encourage young people s interest in horticulture through the Junior Garden Clubs.
The second lecture, Growing Your Own Vegetables: Ongoing Care, will be given by Mr. Murray Hutchinson on Monday March 1Ist at 1:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Mr. Hutchinson is Secretary of the East York Garden Club, one of the horticultural societies under the Ministry of Agriculture. He has spent over 20 years with the East York Club; nine years as President and six as Secretary. He is an avid and enthusiastic gardener whose practical knowledge will be of inestimable value.
On Monday March 15 Mr. Edward Lawrence, partner in Sligo Landscaping, will speak on Pruning and Espaliers. As a young child living in England I was fascinated by the peach, pear, apple and nectarine trees espaliered on the south wall of the garden; their symmetry was as pleasing to the eye as the beautiful blossoms and later, the delicious fruit. The secrets of creating these delightful arrangements will be passed on to you at Mr. Law-
rence s lecture on March 15 at 1:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
These are just a few of the topics to be discussed as part of the Spring Gardening Interest series. All lectures will be held at the Civic Garden Centre, 777 Lawrence Ave. East. I hope you enjoy them.
Mrs. Audrey R. M. Allman is chairwoman of the program committee, and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Civic Garden Centre.
Book Review
Plants for Connoisseurs House of Garden Series
By Peter Coats
208 pp. Illus. 1974 (Collins) $13.95
Peter Coats, the horticulturist, garden historian and designer, has written a book for gardeners who want to grow the best plants in their garden. He has listed what are, in his opinion, the best varieties ofthe popular plant families. This is a beautifully illustrated coffee table book one ofspecial interest to the sophisticated gardener.
Mae MacMillan
Flower Arranging
By Helen Chase
96 pp. Illus. 1975 (Octopus Books Ltd.) $6.50
I have examined many books on my favorite hobby yet I found Flower Arranging by Helen Chase to be a delightful book. From the time you open the front cover to reveal the lovely illustrations you will wish to peruse the chapters as they take you through the various aspects ofchoosing flowers, methods ofconditioning, tools ofthe trade and the very important principles ofdesign .
This is a book for the novice rather than the experienced arranger. The flower arrangements portrayed are not outstanding in design: in other words, they are designs we have seen before. However, the coloured photographs are expertly done and the cover page illustrations are an artistic aid to the beginner.
Spring, summer, autumn and winter are covered in turn. Autumn gives a comprehensive approach to selection of continued on page 26
/ March 1976
A Look at Toronto Estates Past and Present
The Windfields Gardener
It has been said that the publicly owned James Memorial Gardens in Etobicoke at Edenbridge Road and the Humber River is not surpassed anywhere in the world for its natural beauty.
For forty-seven years, until it was purchased by Metro Toronto for $150,000 in 1955, James Gardens was the estate of Mr. and Mrs. Fred T. James. In 1908 Mr. James purchased the property from his wife s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Rumney, as well as the adjoining land from the Home Smith Company, totalling 21 acres of hills, valleys, virgin forest and bush meadow land on the west side of the Humber River.
The James home is situated on the top west corner ofthe estate on Edgehill Road. It is a two story red gabled stone . house. The stones were taken from the Humber River below the house, which is now occupied by the Toronto Hunters and Anglers Association and the Etobicoke Historical Society.
The horse stables were located below the house where the northwest stairs are now. Part of the original wall can still be seen. Various horseshoes, nails and coins have been found in the flower beds.
While I was employed there as head gardener for two years, I was told that Mr. James s son was in a hurry to get home on time so he landed his small airplane across the river on the golf course near the James home!
Metro Toronto Parks has taken over the James Estate since 1955. It is open to the public now and consists of eight acres under bent grass, over twenty flower beds, specimen plantings, various rock gardens, nature trails, three large and four small pools, a carp pond and a lawn bowling court.
For many years, until 1975, James Gardens was under the able hands of Mr. Joseph Heischberg, who is presently the foreman at Edwards Gardens.
Dick Maier who was many years head of Edwards Gardens is now at James Gardens. Each year thousands of flowers and over 75,000 tulips are planted in the beds whose designs and materials are changed each year in the rock gardens and under the well pruned trees and shrubs. Each summer there are tens ofthousands ofvisitors and hundreds of weddings and- receptions. The CBC shoots scenes here each summer for the program This is the Law with Paul Soles.
This is the first, in a series of articles on various Toronto estates of the past and present.
Rodent Damage to Trees and Shrubs
SOmetimes, after the snow has melted, gardeners find that rodents have chewed favorite trees and shrubs. Fruit trees, lilacs, and mountain ash are the most common targets. Rodents usually eat the layer just underneath the bark. If the damage is small, but encircles the stem, the plant may be saved by bridgegrafting, says R. F. Gomme, horticultural specialist, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
The grafting job should be done when the sap is flowing, but early enough to avoid drying of the plant. Take several cuttings from the same tree about 1 foot long and ¥ inch thick. Taper each end with a sharp knife, leaving the cutting long enough to bridge the damaged area.
Remove bark from the lower trunk to match the tapered ends of the cuttings. Secure the cutting with small nails. Then make each end airtight with tree paint. The cuttings should allow the sap to flow to the upper parts of the tree.
If a single plant has been damaged, there s a good chance others nearby are also. Examine each tree and shrub near ground level for rodent damage.
For detailed instructions on bridgegrafting, obtain publication 439, Grafting Fruit Trees, from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Information Branch, Parliament Buildings, Toronto, Ontario M7A 1AS.
Especially Fine Things to Look For At the Flower Show
Apartment Balcony Gardeners: Planned balconies for exotic plants; a balcony on a budget; an elegant balcony; a practical balcony; a balcony facing north and east, another facing south and west. Free instructions on how-to build, courtesy of The Canada Permanent Trust Company.
Condominium Gardens: Display gardens featuring plants and pavings for small places; a variety of fine containers, sculpture, rock plantings.
Indoor Gardens: Tropical bromeliads; African violets; new Swiss kalanchoes; miniature geraniums and a new English geranium; a hundred different kinds of cacti and succulents. Over 200 kinds ofplants to buy for your home.
Herb and Vegetable Gardens: The best of spring vegetables; kitchen herbs for flavoring; herbs for dyeing; herb planters.
Ovutdoor Gardeners: The best of Holland tulips, daffodils, crocus and scilla; a new Bavarian hanging geranium; a summertime garden of fine lilies, delphiniums, Canterbury bells and foxgloves; the August-flowering Royal Standard hosta; tree peonies; rhododendrons and azaleas hardy enough for Canadian winters; Chinese dogwood; roses; new clematis; bonsai.
Junior Gardeners: 14 displays, designed and built by school boys and girls.
Flower Arrangers: Over 165 flower arrangements bouquets, tables, miniature rooms with flowers: Visiting British and Japanese experts doing live shows.
Gardens To See And Things To Do At The Flower Show
A Clematis Garden: See this display of over 250 clematis vines, including the vigorous Pink Chiffon and the double, violet-blue Vyvyan Pennell. Sponsored by The Dunington Grubb Foundation.
A Wildflower Walk: Savour the sights and smells of spring! A thousand trilliums, surrounded by marsh marigolds, hepaticas and yellow ladies slippers, will be in bloom. Admire the maple tree now being displayed in its 4th Garden Show. The Garden Club of Toronto, sponsored by Simpsons Sears Ltd.
School Garden Displays: Five public schools, sponsored by Imperial Oil, present their garden displays. A special entry by the Ontario Society of Crippled Children features plants grown by its handicapped -children. Eight secondary schools, using the theme A Parkette For The Inner City , present their gardens.
Music In The Park: Relax to a little music! Thousands of tulips and daffodils, hyacinths and crocus are set around a bandstand with a real live band. The Etobicoke Parks Dept.
This is but a tiny sampling of the many beautiful gardens to be seen. In all, there are 150 commercial displays and 60 florists displays!
THEATRES
The Main Auditorium
A collection of paintings and photographs using flowers as its theme sets the mood for two special guests who are appearing in the Main Auditorium.
On the afternoons of March 10 and March 14 hear Mrs. Jean Taylor speak on Flower Arrangement in Great Britain Today . On March 11 and March
13, in the afternoons, watch a Japanese Master complete with interpreter doing contemporary Japanese flower arrangements.
Spring s Coming!!!
Canada s big beautiful spring flower and garden show s back in a new setting in the airy, spacious Avutomotive Building in Toronto s Exhibition Park
Four acres ofgardens filled with flowers and vegetables, herbs and leafy trees, waterfalls and pools, hundreds of flower bouquets, houseplants and ideas for using them; gardens for balconies; a wildflower wood; 3 theatres of live programs and award-winning films; howto demonstrations; lots ofwalking and sitting space; restaurants; bandstand music in a spring-flowered park; gardening goodies and plants to take home; a special entrance and ticketing for groups; convenient street cars, busses, Go Train and lots of Parking. continued on page 18
Trellis / 17
Spring s Coming continued
Also showing in the Main Auditorium are such award winning films as The Flowers of Japan ; The Wildflowers of South Africa ; The Delicate Ecology Of The Far North ; Eskimo Legends ; and Wisley , a film of the famous garden of the Royal Horticultural Society in England. The auditorium seats 400 people.
The Mini-Theatre
Don t miss these films on Ontario wildflowers, Arctic flowers, great parks of the world and the fascinating world of mushrooms!
Photographers: A picture at every turn! Also award winning films and slides of famous gardens around the world.
For success with cuttings you need
SERADIX
The hormone powder that helps form roots and promotes rapid vigorous growth. Your local supplier has it.
The Speaker s Corner
Attend your choice ofinformal howto talks and demonstrations on a variety of topics: growing plants under lights; pruning; propagation; vegetables to grow; annuals; roses; gardening in the shade; bonsai; medicinal herbs. And don t overlook the many how-to sheets selling for 5 cents each. In other words an absolutely superb Show with something for everybody: those who already love flowers and plants and those who are about to!!!
Wednesday, March 10th to Sunday, March 14th, 1976
Hours: 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, March 10-13. 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sunday, March 14.
ADMISSION: Adults $3, Senior Citizens & Students $2, Children under 12, 50 cents; under 5, free.
TRANSPORTATION: Via Bathurst Street Cars; Go Train hourly to Exhibition Park Station, connecting to Flower & Garden Show busses. Lots of Parking.
Proceeds
The Civic Garden Centre, housing Canada s finest horticultural library, is the garden information centre of Metropolitan Toronto. Proceeds of this year s show will enable the Centre to enlarge its building and expand its service to gardeners.
Proceeds of past shows have built The Fragrant Garden for the Blind, The Enchanted Gardens for Crippled Children and the Landscape Restoration of Black Creek Pioneer Village. The original building and program of The Civic Garden Centre was supported by these funds, as was the Potting Shed for the Metropolitan Zoo and the Flower Festival of St. James Cathedral. Proceeds of past shows have also assisted The Garden Clubs of Ontario in funding a Wild Flower Sanctuary.
BONSAI
Edith L. Kenzie
The lovely miniature trees known as bonsai have been the comfort, inspiration and joy of the Chinese and Japanese for centuries. One of the many happy gifts we have received from the Orient, bonsai has now become an established art in many areas ofthe North American continent as well as in England, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. It has made recent appearances in Czechoslovakia, France, East Germany, Greece, Italy, and probably other European countries also.
The word bonsai (pronounced bone-sigh is formed from two Japanese words meaning plant and tray that is, a plant in a shallow pot. Of course, bonsai is much more than that!
Judging from its appearance in ancient Chinese and Japanese scrolls, bonsai was originally an art engaged in only by the imperial, aristocratic and leisured classes; but eventually it found its way into the humblest homes, plants being grown on the roofof the house, if no garden space was available.
The earliest bonsai appear to have been dwarfed and twisted trees collected from mountains, exposed cliffs and rocky shores, the elements having moulded the little trees into strange and interesting shapes. Not only were their exotic lines very attractive, but the emotions they inspired awe that they could survive the rough onslaughts of wind, frost and sea, and respect for their ability to live to a great age under such stress added much to the high regard in which the sturdy little trees were held.
The next step was to develop similar specimens from young stock, and the art of bonsai was born. (At least, this is a good guess. There are few actual records.) Over the years rules and guidelines were laid down, special techniques were developed, bonsai pots of unique shape were created, especially designed tools were invented. This whole process was started in China, but along with other Chinese arts, bonsai
was adopted by the Japanese who refined and perfected it, absorbing its care and enjoyment into the fabric of their daily lives. Trees were greatly treasured, and passed on from generation to generation. Bonsai pots, as made by the Japanese, are worthy of careful study. They prove, in actual use, to be so perfectly right. Many gifted potters have made pots especially for bonsai, but it is seldom they have the aesthetic suitability ofthe original Chinese and Japanese styles. These are built on mathematically proportioned measurements, there being a style of pot suitable for every shape and size of bonsai. Most pots for bonsai use are now made in Japan, and their clays and kilns turn out pots of such fine texture and hardness that they withstand our coldest winters outdoors. At the present time, only Japanese-style pots are acceptable at the best bonsai displays. The attitude is, ifit hasn t the Japanese proportions, it is not a bonsai pot.
In spite of all these technicalities, the actual creation of a bonsai is not difficult. It is best to select a young tree with a trunk from a half-inch to an inch or more in diameter; the thicker the better, commensurate with height and taper, as one of the chief objectives is to give the impression of an old tree. This can be a tree dug from the woods or garden, or selected in a nursery. The selected tree must have plenty of strong, low branches from which to choose the framework in an alternating pattern around the trunk. The visible roots of a bonsai are very important to give an impression of stability and also the aged look . Where they spread out from the trunk, the roots should be slightly raised out of the soil and as evenly spaced around the tree as possible.
There are five basic styles commonly used in America today (although there are many more recognized in Japan), these being the Formal Upright, Informal Upright, Slanting, Semi-cascade, and Cascade. There are also group, or forest plantings, and various forms of rock plantings such as plant-on-a-rock, and saikei (pronounced sigh-kay), which depicts a landscape using trees, rocks, moss, and perhaps tiny plants. Some of the styles described in Japanese texts include Coiled, Broom, Twisted Trunk, Octopus, Sinuous. On this continent bonsai growers for the most part prefer the simpler styles which seem more in keeping with the North American scene. Naturally, if a wild tree of unique shape is found, it is collected if possible, trimmed, potted, and treasured. The collection of wild trees, however, is a study in itself. Not only are there guidelines for digging safely, getting as much root as possible, protecting the plant in transit, and caring for it at home; in addition the rights of property-owners and parklands must be respected, as well as consideration for the environment.
But how do you keep it small? is a frequent question. Miniaturizing is accomplished by a balanced variety of treatments. The initial styling and pruning, of both top and roots sets the framework. This is followed up by yearly, monthly, and daily care constant pinching of the tips to induce fine
twigs; a spare but adequate soil which drains well; enough fertilizer to maintain health without encouraging long growth and large leaves; careful watering to ensure a sufficiency, without, as with fertilizer, causing overgrowth. In the case of a mature bonsai, what is called leaf-pruning is also sometimes practised. This technique consists of cutting off all the leaf-blades but leaving the petiole, or leaf-stem, when the new spring growth has become firm, probably toward the end of June, example maples. The tree then puts out a second set, and these are usually considerably smaller than the first set. On a healthy tree, this technique can be practised year after year.
The fact that the tree is in a shallow pot means that the roots are quite confined, and this also slows its growth and reduces the size of the leaves. The tree is only placed in this small pot, however, after it has been grown long enough in the ground or in a large pot, to attain a thick trunk, strong roots, and good branches. Sometimes a newlystyled tree can be placed in a bonsai pot immediately if its size and condition warrant it, but as a rule it is better to leave it for a year or more.
You will notice that most bonsai have the surface of the soil completely or partially covered with fine-textured moss. Spaces between mossed areas may be left bare or lightly covered with fine gravel or coarse sand. These treatments provide a natural look and also help to keep the soil moist and protected from washing out in a heavy rain.
In Japan all bonsai are kept outdoors, being brought into the house for only a few days at a time for display, perhaps in the alcove which they call a tokonoma. However, in our cold winter climate, the necessity of leaving hardy trees outside to complete their growth and dormancy cycle would result in our being without the companionship ofour beloved bonsai in winter. Members of bonsai societies are experimenting with tender plants, and one fruitful source of such species is a list ofwhat is grown by the bonsai societies ofFlorida and California. A brief list of suitable trees for indoor bonsai would include Dwarf Po-
megranate, Myrtle, Carissa, Ficus benjamina and pumila, Eugenia, Gardenia, Ilex crenata, Lantana, Privet, Malpighia, Pyracantha and Cotoneaster (tender varieties), Azalea, Rosemary (especially miniature types), Serissa. Few needled evergreens do well in the house, but junipers seem to thrive if kept cool at night, and if the foliage is thoroughly washed under the tap once a week or more.
It must be remembered that plants native to the north temperate zone require a dormant period at a temperature below 40°F., so hardy bonsai cannot be kept indoors in the winter. They might live a season or so in continual warmth, but they will not thrive indefinitely.
There are many lovely semi-hardy trees which will need some winter protection such as a cold-frame, unheated greenhouse, conservatory, porch or basement cupboard. Some apartment dwellers even manage to pack them snugly in boxes or barrels of peat-moss; but wherever they are, they must be watered occasionally, as cold air is liable to
be dry, and they could die of desiccation rather than cold. Trees suitable for this type of care might include Ilex serrata, Catlin Elm, Wisteria, Atlas Cedar, Japanese White Pine, Bald Cypress, Paperbark Maple, Threadleaf Japanese Maple, small-leaved southern Oaks.
Hardy trees make up the bulk of Canadian bonsai, and for these many of our natives are ideal, as well as some from other parts of the world. Our beautiful native Eastern White Pine is rather too rangy and open for good bonsai, but Scotch Pine, Lodgepole, Pitch, Mugho, Bristlecone, Japanese Black Pine, have short enough needles and good branching habits. Spruce, Larch, Hemlock, Yew, Juniper, Chamecyparis in variety, are excellent. The native White Cedar is only effective when old, weather-worn specimens can be found. Maples such as Trident, Hedge, Japanese, Amur, and the native Red, are all lovely. Other deciduous trees are Beech, Birch, Hornbeam, Amelanchier, hardy Cotoneasters and Pyracanthas, Hawthorn, Ginkgo, Ilex verticillata, Liquidambar, Crabapple
\{//C,
and Pear, the stone fruits, White and English Oaks, Sophora, Miniature Rose, Dwarf Willows, Chinese and Siberian Elm, Zelkova.
If you are considering trying your hand at bonsai it would be advisable to get some advice from someone with experience, such as a member of a bonsai club, or from books. There are many very fine books available, most of them carried by the Civic Garden Centre. The Centre s bookshop will also order from the publisher any book you would like to buy.
A comment might be appropriate here about the imported Japanese White Pine bonsai (Pinus parviflora; or pentaphylla), which have been purchased by many people in the Toronto area. This is perhaps the most beautiful of all bonsai species, the one most people visualize when bonsai is mentioned. Unfortunately it is not reliably hardy in our area and cannot safely be left outside during the deep-freeze days of January and February; nor will it succeed long as an indoor plant. It is essential to its health that it experience a dormant period, and reputedly it can stand temperatures down to zero. However, the Toronto Bonsai Society recommends that these trees be kept outdoors
all summer and left there until about the middle of December, then brought inside into as cool a spot as possible, especially at night. The alternative is a cold-frame or unheated greenhouse, conservatory, basement cupboard, or porch. It is the freezing of the roots, not frosting ofthe top, which is liable to kill it. Should it break dormancy before Spring and the new buds start to elongate, it will be necessary to tip-prune. (See below).
Watering of any bonsai is critical, but particularly in the case of the Japanese White Pine and San José Juniper, another popular evergreen bonsai, often grown indoors. The writer has grieved many times with owners of pine and juniper bonsai which appear to be dead or dying. It would seem that at the time of purchase the instructions given with regard to care, and particularly to watering, have been either misunderstood or inadequate. It is true that they should not be over-watered, but top-spraying alone, while valuable, does not reach the roots. It is best to set the plant in a basin of water up to the rim of the pot until moisture appears on the surface of the soil not longer than ten minutes. The bonsai should not be re-watered until the top half-inch of soil feels dry
to the exploring finger-tip. It is not enough to say water once a week , or whatever. Each plant must be individually tested. A rhythm will soon become apparent. In the Spring when new growth starts, it is necessary to prune the tips, otherwise your bonsai will lose its lovely shape. Ifyou do not feel competent to do this yourself, the Toronto Bonsai Society will be happy to show you what to do just for the love of bonsai!
In all this discussion of origins, species, development, care, we have not yet touched upon the very essence of bon- sai, which is so very difficult to convey in words. This essence might be suggested as the emotional impact which every good bonsai should be capable of imparting to the viewer the response that the sensitive viewer experiences from any beautiful work of art, or from the glories of the natural world. This impact, when referred to bonsai, is so intangible that it is perhaps better not to try to describe it, for we do not know quite what produces it whether it is the perfection of the over-all design, the charm of a graceful tree, or the inspiration aroused by this aged little veteran which has braved its precarious existence for so many years. When viewing bonsai, it is well to try to do so in quietness ifpossible, taking time to relax and let its elements sink into your consciousness. If a bonsai gives pleasure to its creator, he has done well. If it delights others, he has done well indeed.
Here's a very neat and highly efficient system of watering pot plants and one which will be welcomed especially by those who grow many plants indoors. It uses the capillary system of watering which keeps a fibre mat continuously damp. Plants placed on the mat are kept automatically watered. The Caretaker provides the essential humidity where plants are grown in the home in the dry winter atmosphere.
THE PLANT ROOM
Specializing in Miniature Gesneriad, Fern, Orchid and Terrarium plants. Visitors welcome every day 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Wed.); other times by appointment.
6373 Trafalgar Road, Hornby, Ontario (North of Oakville) (416) 878-4984
Rolls of capillary mat can be purchased for extensive layouts. Commercial growers have proved the efficiency of this matting and very large areas are covered by it to keep the vast quantities of pot plants watered with minimum labour. Available postpaid by mail for only $4.60 per kit, which includes Ontario Retail Sales Tax in Ontario.
Photograph by George Reichert
Rex Begonias
A. R. Buckley
Given the proper soil and other necessary conditions, there is no house plant easier to grow than the rex begonia. Furthermore, this plant has infinite varieties of many-colored roughtextured foliage ofinterest for every day of the year. Many new ones now available are perfectly suited to every kind of dwelling from the small country cottage to the modern suburban bungalow or split-level home.
Types vary from the small Baby Rainbow, which is not much larger than a saucer and is very colorful, to the large ones that grow more than a yard across and have leaves a foot or more wide.
There are varieties with silvery leaves, with red leaves, or deep velvetygreen leaves with lustrous red hairs. There are cut-leaved types and elephant-ear types, all of which command and receive very flattering remarks from visitors. All have appropriate names.
For example, there is the Glory of St. Albans, an English introduction with leaves that reflect the rose-colored tints of a cathedral window. Others are Fireflush, the leaves of which appear to be on fire when light strikes them at an oblique angle; Solid Silver, with leaves that appear as though painted with aluminum, and Iron Cross, whose leaves have a large, dark red cross on a silvery-green background.
These fibrous begonias are surface feeders with hairy rootlets, and therefore must not be potted too firmly. The soil should remain loose so that the roots can penetrate easily. A good potting soil consists of equal parts of good garden loam, sand and leafmold or peat moss. Add to this one part of well-decayed cow manure or one-half part of commercial dried sheep manure. Then to each bushel of soil add a three-inch potful of bone meal.
Do not overwater. The plants should be kept just moist all the time, but not so wet that the soil is soggy. They adapt themselves well to a wide range of temperature, which should remain fairly constant. For example, a steady temperature of 18-21°C (65 to 70°F) suits
them admirably, but they will grow well in a cool 7-10°C (45 to 50°F) temperature, provided that this is maintained over a long period.
The best location is close to a welllighted north window or a westerly window shaded most of the day.
One of the most important requirements of the rex or painted begonia is fairly high and constant humidity. Set the plants in a tray of sphagnum moss, or pebbles that can be kept moist, and occasionally spray them with water through an atomizer. They will amply repay your kindness by producing a very rich velvety sheen over the surface of the leaves.
These beautiful plants will grow in window boxes provided they are shaded and sheltered from the wind. Instead of planting them out, it is better to set the pots in the window box and fill in between them with sphagnum moss, which should be kept moist at all times.
Plant numbers can be increased by several methods of propagation.
In February or March cut off a mature leaf complete. with an inch of stem. Turn it upside down on a table and cut through the main veins with a razor blade or sharp knife just at the place where the veins divide. Next, turn the leaf right-side-up and place it flat on a box or pot of sand. Use a hairpin or wire to peg it down. Water well with a fine rose can or an atomizer and cover with polyethylene. This is all the watering that will be needed. After a two to three week period at average room temperature, small plants will form at the place where each incision was made, and at the stem. These little plants may be potted into one-inch pots filled with a sand-peat mixture.
Another method is to cut the leafinto triangular pieces, each with a goodsized vein, and insert them on edge in sand and cover them as above. A third method is to take leaves, each with about an inch of stem, and insert them around the edge of a pot of sand. The base of each leaf should be located about one-quarter inch below the surface.
Mr. Buckley retired as ornamental plant specialist with The Plant Research Institute, now Ornamentals Research Service, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, 20 months ago. He continues to write gardening information columns for newspapers across Canada.
Some Hardier Primroses
A. R. Buckley
Primroses are among the most attractive of flowering plants. Nothing can be more charming and graceful than these plants in a woodland glade with light checkered shade.
Most of the showy species are only hardy in British Columbia. However, they may often be nurtured into near perfection in southern Ontario, especially in the Niagara district.
A few very handsome and sun-loving types may be seen in rock gardens and perennial borders in the colder parts of eastern Canada. Some of these are sufficiently hardy for the prairies.
The most outstanding species, usually associated with old-fashioned gardens, is the auricula (Primula auricula), a very showy and hardy species with stout mealy stems and powdery oval leaves.
The flowers, which are bell-shaped and fragrant, are borne in umbels. The flower color of the species itself is yellow, but there are many mutants and hybrids, having different colors, usually classed in this group.
The auriculas grow easily in most soils. The soil must not be allowed to become dry. To assist in retaining soil moisture, quantities of organic matter should be added.
In eastern Canada and the prairies, the plants should be given winter protection to prevent the large swollen roots from heaving.
Among the most outstanding cultivars are Blue Velvet, deep velvety blue with a white eye; Celtic King, bearing large clear yellow flowers with a white eye; Dusty Miller, having yellow, richly scented flowers and Jean Walker, a mauve with a cream eye, that has a vigorous growth habit.
Primula cortusioides, a native of Siberia, has rose-colored flowers on many-flowered umbels. The soft hairy leaves are somewhat like those of Siebold s primrose (Primula sieboldii) but much smaller. This is an excellent, very hardy, primrose that grows where most others will not succeed.
A very dainty early flowering primrose that seems to have endeared itself to Canadian gardeners for generations
is the Himalayan primrose (Primula denticulata). This hardy and charming primrose grows in all kinds of soil and withstands drier conditions than most of the others.
Its showy light violet or mauve blooms are borne in globe-shaped clusters and provide a pleasant spring picture if planted in lavish groups in the front of the border.
Although the white flowered form and the Cashmerian primrose, a later flowering form, are well known, not many are aware that there are many good vigorous color selections. Of these I prefer Bengal Rose, fuchsia purple; Pritchard s Ruby, rich ruby red; Stormont s Red, vivid orchid purple and Red Emperor, bright rose.
Almost as soon as the snow has gone from the rock garden at the Plant Research Institute, the Julie primrose and its cultivars burst into bloom. This is the most satisfactory primrose for cultivation in eastern Canada and is usually accepted as a good rock garden and low carpeting plant.
Since it will tolerate drier conditions than most primulas and will grow in shaded areas, it is most useful as a ground cover for dry shady borders. The species itself forms dense mats of foliage from which masses of lilacpurple flowers arise in early spring.
Many cultivars, most of which have resulted from crosses with the polyantha primrose, have brilliant colors and flower even more abundantly.
Among these are Betty, rich crimson; Dorothy, pale yellow; E. R. James, vivid cherry red; Gold Jewel, very bright yellow; Jewel, crimson purple; Old Port, wine purple; Our Pat, double dark purple; Snow Cushion, white and Wanda, claret purple.
The Polyanthus primrose, which is so well known to most gardeners, is a name that covers all the complex hybrids that involved crossing and recrossing of such species as the cowslip (Primrose veris), oxlip (Primrose elatior) and the common English primrose (Primrose vulgaris) to obtain a race with a fantastic range of color, size and beauty.
The plants are moderately hardy in eastern Canada, although they do not
continuedfrom page 25 persist for many years. Their survival depends a great deal on providing a sheltered location, adequate drainage, good rich soil and mulching during the summer.
Some strains are hardier than others.
The Barnhaven, Clarke s and Ellen Garden hybrids are three good American strains. The newest hybrids from Sakata of Japan known as the Pacific Giant strain have a wide color range and extra large blooms, up to three inches in diameter.
In the Ottawa area, they seem as hardy as the others and given some shade have lasted a few years. These are grown from seeds and are available in at least 11 true-breeding colors including deep reds, yellow, blue and white.
The hardy Siebold s primrose (Primula sieboldii) is a very satisfactory Japanese species that is more tolerant of sun, heat, drought and cold than most of the others. Large 1% inch fringed flowers of pink, rose, white or purple are produced on slender flower spikes in late spring. The heart-shaped crinkled
LWhite
leaves form tufts of foliage which are themselves attractive most of the year.
The Barnhaven hybrids, produced in Michigan, are larger and have a wider assortment of colors.
The common primrose forms small tufts ofwrinkled foliage from which arise solitary yellow flowers with a deeper yellow eye. Although deep blue shades and double flowers do not occur often in the types mentioned above, they are abundant in hybrids of the common primrose (Primula vulgaris) from which double pink, blue and yellow are available.
Book Review continued from page 14 materials for drying and the different problems encountered in making dried bouquets. The Christmas chapter illustrates lovely traditional examples for the home.
The book ends with a very complete appendix, covering many flowers with a description oftheir colour, their form, and their value to the arranger.
This is a handsome book, one I continued nextpage
CRAFTS & Growers and distributors of quality garden plants and craft products
4 beautiful garden stores to serve you Open 7 days a week
UNIONVILLE No. 7 Highway East of Woodbine West of Kennedy 297-3330
SCARBOROUGH 1306 Kennedy Rd. S. of 401 Highway North of Lawrence 755-5345
ETOBICOKE 1582 The Queensway (Between Kipling and Highway 427) 255-0725
MISSISSAUGA Dundas St. East of Hwy. 10 W. of Cawthra Rd. 2712121
Making a Terrarium
Have you thought of planting a terrarium? If you are an apartment dweller, have you considered one as a good way to have a miniature garden?
The container, plain and fancy
The container for a terrarium need continuedfrom previouspage believe you would enjoy having on the coffee table to pick up from time to time.
Marea Lyle
The Garden Lover s Companion
Edited by Peter Hunt
429 pp. Illus. 1974
(Eyre Methuen ofLondon, England)
$16.75
It is the great readers rather than the greatwriters who are entirely to be envied. They pluck the fruits and are spared the trouble ofrearing them! So wrote Alexander Smith who, ifliving - today, would, I am sure, have had The Garden Lover s Companion in mind.
A confirmed anthologist, as well as a gardening historian and encyclopedist, Peter Hunt has written a ten-part book selecting some ofthe best prose and verse available on our favourite subject.
A perfect gift book forthe seasoned gardener and one you will want to buy for yourselfas well!
Peggy Harvey
Garden in Your House
By Ernesta Drinker Ballard
252 p. Illus. 1958 revised ed 1971
(Harper& Row) $10.50
This comprehensive guide to the growing and enjoyment ofindoor plants has appeal for both beginning gardeners and experienced ones. Horticultural principles basic to successful indoor gardening are reviewed, indoor gardens such as heated sun-porches, window gardens and artificial light gardens are illustrated and described, and many indoor plants are discussed in detail with cultural suggestions. The author s own love of growing things is apparent in her warm, personal style.
Pearl Wilby
not be expensive an old aquarium, a round fish bowl, or an old pickle jar from the basement could do very well. If something more decorative is desired perhaps a brandy snifter could be obtained. Whatever you use, be sure that your container is washed, dried and polished.
The next step is to find the right plants for your terrarium. They should be cither very young plants or ones of a dwarfhabit. Some suggestions are Baby Tears, English Ivy (green and variegated, Peperomias, Velvet Plant and various ferns. Small cacti can be used if a desert type atmosphere is being created.
Melting snow at this season will expose mosses growing in the woods. This moss should be placed in the bottom of the terrarium with the green side right next to the glass. This greatly improves the appearance ofthe finished product.
Drainage
Over the moss, a layer of charcoal should be placed to keep the soil sweet thus preventing Sourness . Over this, a layer ofgravel or small pieces ofbroken pottery will aid in drainage a necessary feature since the container will be water-tight.
Now place the soil (a mixture of part soil, sand and peat moss) in the terrarium, sloping it so that it is higher in the back than in the front. Ifyour container is large enough, you may form hills and valleys to simulate a natural landscape.
Placing the Plants
Now that you have your soil ingredients settled, carefully place your small plants in position, making little holes for each. Tamp the soil firmly around the roots. To make the whole effect more interesting, be on the watch for small twigs and branches, attractive rocks etc. when gathering your moss, and add them to your planting.
Now cover the terrarium opening with a piece of glass. This will enable you to maintain it easily. You could add a little moisture about once a month. It should not be necessary more often, because moisture will condense on the glass and drip back onto the soil. Most important, do not overwater!
Coming Events of notable Gardening and Floral Arts Interest
March 7-14, 1976
Philadelphia Flower and Garden Show, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, at Civic Center, Philadelphia. Contact: the society at (215) 922-4801.
March 10-14, 1976
Toronto Spring Flower and Garden Show, sponsored by the Garden Club of Toronto, at the Automotive Building, Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto. Contact: Mrs. N. A. MacEachern (416) 483-9873.
March 13-21, 1976
New England Spring Garden and Flower Show, sponsored by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, at Commonwealth Armory, Boston. Contact: the society at (617) 536-9280.
March 20-28, 1976
Chicago Flower and Garden Show, sponsored by the Chicago Horticultural Society and Botanic Garden, at McCormick Place, Chicago. Contact: Robert Wintz (312) 332-2868.
March 21-27, 1976
The Garden Symposium, sponsored by Colonial Williamsburg, at Williamsburg, Virginia. Contact: Mrs. J. S. Moyles (804) 229-1000.
May 26-28, 1976
Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by the Royal Horticultural Society, at Chelsea Royal Hospital Grounds, London, England. And other shows held throughout the year at the society s own halls. Contact: the Civic Garden Centre for information.
June 5-6, 1976
Rhododendron Society of Canada, Annual Meeting and Flower Show, at The Montreal Botanic Gardens, from 11:00 am. to 6:00 p.m. Contact: Mr. Ken Duncan at (416) 447-8046.
June 16-17-18, 1976
Ontario Horticultural Association Convention, at Sir Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario. Contact: Russell F. Gomme (416) 965-1091.
June 27, 1976
Tournament of Roses, sponsored by Canadian Rose Society, in the ballroom of the Harbour Castle Hotel, from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Auction of the show s roses at closing time.
COME FLY WITH ME CAPTAIN"
TOMMY
O TOOLE THOMPSON
TAKES YOU ON A TRIP TO IRELAND
Thursday 18th March 1976 at 8.00 p.m. IN FLIGHT MOVIE SONGS OF FLOWERS and IRELAND by the SCARBOROUGH CANTABILE SINGERS under the direction of W. White IN FLIGHT REFRESHMENTS
A Members Night with a Difference for All Members of The Civic Garden Centre COME BRING A FRIEND COME MEET YOUR HOST THE INIMITABLE TOMMY THOMPSON
Water Lilies Aquatic Plants Everything for the Water Garden Free Catalog on request MOORE WATER GARDENS
PORT STANLEY, ONT. NOL 2A0
Phone 519-782-4052
SPRING IN THE GARDEN "
THE SPRING GARDEN TOUR TO WILMINGTON AND PHILADELPHIA, SPONSORED BY THE CIVIC GARDEN CENTRE will be from 20th-23rd April, 1976 Limited number 45 Deadiine date for reservations 1st March FURTHER INFORMATION Mrs. A. Allman, 444-2892; Mrs. F. Rothschild, 366-1138.
GARDEN THE YEAR ROUND WITH PLANTS AND EQUIPMENT FROM CANADA S LEADING INDOOR GARDEN AND GREENHOUSE ACCESSORIES SPECIALIST
EQUIPMENT
CONSULTANTS & SALES
2241 DUNWIN DRIVE, MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO L5L 1A3
TELEPHONE: (416) 828-5925 878-4984
CABLES: EQUIPCON
CANADIAN MADE INDOOR GARDEN UNITS
* Wall, Table and Build-Up" Multi-Tray Units
* Swag Lamps * Complete Plant Room Installations
IMPORTED HUMEX AND NETHERGREEN GREENHOUSE ACCESSORIES
¢ Heaters » Thermometers ® Moisture Meters
¢ Automatic Watering Systems e Vent Openers
* Roll Shades ¢ Hi-Lo Temperature Alarm Systems
* Automatic Propagators ® Thermostats
* Soil Heating Cables ® Hobby Greenhouses
IMPORTED STEWART PLASTIC GARDEN WARE
* Propagators * Pots and Saucers * Shrub Tubs
® Troughs » Sieves ® Trays
You are cordially invited to visit THE PLANT ROOM at 6373 Trafalgar Road (2.6 miles south of Highway 401) and see the finest collection in Canada of exotic plants growing under our units and in our modern greenhouses. FREE ADVISORY SERVICE available upon request.
By owning your very own EDEN gPeenhouse available in 7 popular models with the right size to fit your needs you can not only start your vegetables and flowers and enjoy them earlier but you could save money.
EDEN greenhouses, winner of the BRITISH DESIGN AWARD, are made of non-rusting, durable sturdy aluminum. The double strength glass is pre-cut. Easy do-it-yourself assembly. See a display model at our showroom.
Phone or write for more details and colour brochure.
The following Specialty groups meet at the CENTRE for regular meetings: The Toronto Bonsai Society, The Can. Chrysanthemum Society, The Can. Rose Society, Gardening Under Lights Group, The Highrise Gardeners Club, The Men s Garden Club, The Southern Ontario Orchid Society and The Rhododendron Society.
You are welcome to attend any of the Society meetings or other interests Please call for meeting times.
1st,
and receive a plant of your choice up to the value of $1.00 free. No purchase necessary just bring this coupon in PERSON and receive your plant.
e New for 1976
e Full colour throughout ¢ 136 pages
e over 1200 trees and other plants
e plus valuable gardening information Obtain yours now at any Sheridan Garden Centre for $1.00 or free with any purchase
