Balsams.--The seeds of these tender annuals require to be sown in
early spring in a hot-house or a warm frame having a temperature of 65
to 75 degrees. When 2 or 3 in. high, or large enough to handle, prick
off singly into small pots, shade them till they are established, and
re-pot as they advance in strength in a compost of loam, leaf-mould,
sand, and old manure. Give them air when the weather is favourable.
The last shift should be into 24-sized pots. Supply them with an
abundance of liquid manure, admit as much air as possible, and syringe
freely. They must never be allowed to get dry. Secure their stems
firmly to sticks. They will flower in the open early in September.
Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 2 ft.
Bambusa.--The dwarf-growing Bamboos Fortunei variegata and
Viridi-striata make graceful edgings to borders or paths. The whole
family like a rich, loamy, damp soil.
Baneberry.--See "Actaea."
Baptisia Australis.--This ornamental hardy perennial makes a good
border plant, growing in any loamy soil, and producing its blue
flowers in June and July. It can be multiplied by dividing the root.
Height, 3 ft.
Barbarea.--See "Rocket."
Barberries.--Very ornamental hardy shrubs, bearing rich yellow flowers
in spring and attractive fruit in the autumn. Most handsome when
trained to a single stem and the head allowed to expand freely. They
are not particular as to soil, but prefer a rather light one, and
succeed best in a moist, shady situation. Cuttings or layers root
freely in the open. They require very little attention, beyond
occasionally cutting away some of the old branches to make room for
new growth. Height, 1-1/2 ft. to 2 ft.
Bartonia aurea.--Beautiful hardy annuals, the flowers of which open
at night and effuse a delightful odour. Sow the seed in autumn on a
gentle hotbed; pot off, and protect in a greenhouse during the winter.
Plant them out in the open in May, where they will flower in June.
Height, 1-1/2 ft.
Bay, Sweet (Laurus Nobilis).--This half-hardy evergreen shrub likes
a sheltered position. Protection from severe frosts is requisite,
especially while it is young. It is more suitable as an isolated
specimen plant than for the border. Increased by layers or by cuttings
of the roots.
Beans, Broad.--A deep, strong loam is most suitable, but good crops
can be obtained from any garden soil. The first sowing should be made
in February or March, and in succession to May. A sowing of Beck's
Green Gem or Dwarf Fan may even be made in November in rows 2 ft.
apart. Other varieties should be planted in rows 3 ft. apart, sowing
the seed 3 in. deep and at intervals of 6 in. When the plants have