To be sure “Major Zero” is in full command; the ground is covered with
snow, and the trees like gaunt skeletons stand out in bold relief
against the background of sky. But wintry as it seems and is out of
doors it is none too early to begin planning for the coming summer
campaign. Catalogues from nurserymen, florists and seedsmen are pouring
in upon us laden with good things. Some are really beautiful. I’ve been
experimenting a little in window gardening, but—woe is me; some varieties
have not responded well to my treatment, not from any fault of the plant
I am confident, but through my ignorance of its needs.
Different plants require different treatment and temperature, but I find
as a rule the majority treat them all alike and wonder why they do not
have any “luck” with some kinds. For example, I gave my pet carnations
just as much water, and as often, as my geraniums. They began to look
sick and I lost three before I found out they did not require much
wetting.
I’m thinking seriously of trying the different varieties of some one
plant, begonias, perhaps. According to catalogue description they are
admirably adapted to house culture. They do not require much sun and are
free from insects. Most varieties blossom freely, and even if they did
not the foliage is very attractive. Countess Louise Erdody is a curiosity
and has a history. It was produced from seed planted in the garden of
Count Erdody, a Hungarian, and named in honor of the Countess. During the
summer begonias may be grown upon the piazza and a plant stand filled
with well rooted specimens would be a beautiful ornament.