ROCK GARDENS

Alpines in Rock Gardens 4

Most alpines thrive in a gritty, well-drained soil. Two-thirds fibrous loam and leaf-mould with one-third coarse, gritty sand makes an excellent compost for most of them. Many of the finer saxifrages like a little splintered limestone or some old lime rubble, similar to that used in carnation culture, in their soil. Individual tastes must be studied. Pot-up in pans from six to nine inches in diameter and about five inches deep; and since ample drainage is required, place two and a half to three inches of broken crocks in the bottom of the pans for plants like the Androsaces and the Saxifrages. For subjects of a more vigorous nature and for bulbs, one inch of crocks will suffice. Alpines require ample water during their growing period and while in bloom; but care must be taken to see that the drainage is adequate, for a stale, stagnant soil is the alpine's greatest enemy. Plants will need most water in the spring and summer. Water at least once a day, sometimes twice, at this season. Dormant plants and those freshly potted are best kept rather dry until growth begins. A watering once a week, or even less frequently, will suffice for most plants in winter time; but the soil must be prevented from becoming dust-dry. In the summer the watering should be done when the sun's heat is at its peak.

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