GARDENERS CALENDAR.

Dunstan Times, Issue 575, 25 April 1873, Page 3

GARDENERS CALENDAR.

MAY. Ilitchen Garden.—This is the first month of whiter, iuul it is a favorable time for making any alterations contemplated, such as the forming and gravelling of paths, and the preparing for and planting live fences, which succeed host when planted as early as the plants can ho moved with safety. Plant thorn quicks six inches apart ; holly, twelve inches; privet, sweetbriar, and broom, nine inches apart. Thorn quick hedge rows that have made one year's 1 growth, if strong, should now he cut down close to the ground ; but, if weak, this important operation should he deferred until after the second year’s growth is made. The cutting down of thorn quicks tends to , thicken them at the root, and the growth for years after will ho more vigorous than if they had just received a partial cutting. Plant rhubarb, asparagus, and sea kale in rich deep moist ground ; hut make provision for the escape of stagnant water, and apply manure-to former plantings. Plant globe artichokes, also cabbage and cauliflower. Sow peas and beans in sheltered places. Sow radish. Keep weeds down by every

possible means. Fruit Garden.—Get ground in readiness for the planting of fruit trees and bushes It is not advisable to bring rtp the subsoil to the surface by trenching, but it ought to bo well loosended to the depth of two feet. Trees planted towards the cud of this month will succeed bettor than those planted later in tho season. Prune when tho trees and hushes have shod their leaves, not before. Riant strawberries and raspberry canes.

Flower Garden.—This department will still bo interesting. The chrysanthemum, which is one of tho finest autumn flowers W'e have, and which thrives amazingly here, is now coming into bloom. If a little attention be paid to arranging the plants as to height and color, giving them a sheltered border, no flo-.ver will bo more attractive at this season. Plant bulbs of crocus, tulip, narcissus, hyacinth, jonquil, &c. Gather and dry flower seeds. Choice trees and shrubs can now bo transplanted with safety —such as the rhododendron, lanrislinas> pyres, japonica, cypress, laurel, cedar, and pine trees. There are many pretty native shrubs vety ornamental when cultivated, And sre '’eserving of more attention than is generally bestowed cn them.