THE EVERGREENS

The first third of this excellent basic text discusses the two groups:- the conifers or narrow-leaved evergreens, and the broad-leaved evergreens, but not until one eaches the final section does one realize how many shrubs, vines and low growing rock arden plants come under this latter classification. Primary considerations of the aridness, the differing conditions, the adaptability, the effect of exposure and temperature, the introduction of species from other lands, all are discussed. Then comes the 11 important subject of care:- how and where to plant, when to plant, what the type of oil and how to correct inadequate soil, pruning, watering, care when new, protection rom winter damage, from mice, etc. There is special advice on rhododendrons, emphasized gain when the various types of rhododendrons are introduced. The last two thirds of the text is devoted to the individual evergreens, starting with the narrow leaved conifers; continuing into the wide range of broad leaved evergreens. Among these- to the average reader- familiar names include abelia, box, daphne, saxifrage, hypericum, the big ilex family, jasmine, laurel, privet, magnolia, pyracantha, viburnum, yucca, etc. But it is surprising to find included vines such as ivy and honeysuckles; ground covers such as pachysandra; herbs such as thyme, rue. Then in a final section the enormous heath family, including andromeda, laurel, rhododendron, pieris, the heathers and so health family, including andromeda, laurel, rhododendron, pieris, the heathers and so on.