A very light
soil is needed, and plenty of sunshine. Flowers are produced in July.
Height, 1 ft. to 2-1/2 ft.

Asparagus.--Sow in March or April, in rich light soil, allowing the
plants to remain in the seed-beds until the following spring; then
transplant into beds thoroughly prepared by trenching the ground 3 ft.
deep, and mixing about a foot thick of well-rotted manure and a good
proportion of broken bones and salt with the soil. The plants should
stand 2 ft. apart. In dry weather water liberally with liquid manure,
and fork in a good supply of manure every autumn. Give protection in
winter. The plants should not be cut for use until they become strong
and throw up fine grass, and cutting should not be continued late in
the season. April is a good time for making new beds. The roots should
be planted as soon as possible after they are lifted, as exposure to
the air is very injurious to them.

Asparagus Plumosus Nanus is a greenhouse variety, bearing fern-like
foliage. The seeds should be sown in slight heat early in spring.

Asparagus Sprengeri.--This delightful greenhouse climber is seen to
best advantage when suspended in a hanging basket, but it also makes
an attractive plant when grown on upright sticks, or on trellis-work.
It is useful for cut purposes, lasting a long time in this state,
and is fast taking the place of ferns, its light and elegant foliage
making it a general favourite. It should be grown in rich, light
mould, and may be propagated by seed or division. The roots should not
be kept too wet, especially in cold weather.

Asperula (_Woodruff_).--A. Azurea Setosa is a pretty, light-blue
hardy annual, which is usually sown in the open in autumn for early
flowering; if sown in the spring it will bloom in June or July. A.
Odorata is a hardy perennial, merely needing ordinary treatment. It is
serviceable for perfuming clothes, etc. Asperulas thrive in a moist
soil, and grow well under the shade of trees. Height, 1 ft.

Asphalte Paths.--Sift coarse gravel so as to remove the dusty portion,
and mix it with boiling tar in the proportion of 25 gallons to each
load. Spread it evenly, cover the surface with a layer of spar,
shells, or coarse sand, and roll it in before the tar sets.

Asphodelus.--Bold hardy herbaceous plants; fine for borders; will grow
in common soil, and flower between May and August. Increased by young
plants taken from the roots. Height, 2-1/2 ft. to 4 ft.

Aspidistra.--This greenh