SPECIAL USES. Rock and bog gardens.
Azalea (Rhododendron) Ericaceae
The azalea differs from the rhododendron only in technical points. The size varies from tree-like to almost prostrate. It flowers from April to June and is the most vivid of all shrubs. Colors pink, yellow, salmon, purple, white, red, and orchid. Some are fragrant.
CARE. Acid soil, sun. Moist, unsuited for areas where there is less than twenty-five inches of rainfall per year. Water after flowering when plant is making new shoots. Reduce watering in summer. Prune to check irregular growth after blooming season. Remove old blooms. Fertilize after flowering. Dust soil with sulfur.
PROPAGATION. Seeds; layering, in air and in the soil; cuttings. Balled and burlapped plants can be set out almost any time.
SPECIAL USES. Rock gardens, foundation planting, bonsai.
Betula nana Betulaceae Birch
Deciduous shrub, spreading and branching to two feet, leaves to one-half inch long. When young the leaves are sticky and fuzzy on the underside. A native of Alaska. Flowers, catkins.
CARE. Moist sandy soil.
PROPAGATION. Seeds (stratify at once), layering, green-wood cuttings under glass.