|
Perennials—Winter Protection. In general, the better es-tablished a perennial is, the less winter protection it requires. How-ever, even though plants would winter over safely if uncovered, theyshould be protected from the heaving which follows alternate thawingand freezing. In the case of perennials planted in the autumn this isexceedingly important for the first winter. Snow is a good protectivecovering, but it is rarely that plants will be so covered during the entirewinter. It is accordingly advisable to apply a mulch. Mulching in the fall provides an opportunity for fertilizing as well asprotection, especially if good straw manure is used. Straw or corn-stalks provide excellent mulch for perennials but both encourage mice.These pests may be killed by poisoned wheat or by pouring carbonbisulphide down their burrows. Where mice are especially trouble-some, a compost of leaves, sawdust, lawn rakings, etc., should be used,inasmuch as heavy litter or one containing grain is ideal for attractinganimals. Perennials such as lilies, whose crowns are completely under-ground, require the greatest protection. Perennials such as primroses |
|||
|
