Garden Notes - Ox-Eye to Vanilla Scented Orchis

Ox-Eye

One of the best known early flowering Alpine plants, and one that is easily grown. Should be given a good depth of loamy soil in a pocket in the rock garden, or may be grown in the front of a border or in beds. Propagated by division in autumn, or by seeds sown as soon as they are ripe. Height, 8 in. to 12 in.

Grass of Parnassus

A beautiful plant that is a native of bogs and beaths in Great Britain. Excellent for planting in artificial bog gardens, or in other moist places in the rock garden where peaty soil is provided. Should not be disturbed often. Can be propagated by seeds or division, the latter being the usual method.

Alpine Rose

A dwarf-growing shrub, native of the European Alps, and suitable for planting in the bolder parts of the rock garden. Should have an open situation, and soil composed mainly of peat. Must be kept away from lime or limestone. Propagated usually by layers or by grafting, both of which are rather difficult.

Mountain Avens

A well-known hardy herbaceous plant, suitable for the rock garden or the herbaceous border. Will thrive in full sun or partial shade. Should be given a good depth of moderately rich loamy soil. Propagated by division in early spring, or by seeds sown in a cold frame in spring, or the open garden in May or June.

Vanilla Scented Orchis

This is a very dwarf-growing member of the Orchid family that is found growing wild in the grassy pastures of the Alps. Not an easy plant to grow in our gardens. Should be given soil composed of peat and coarse grit, with a little good fibrous loam added. Propagation, which is very difficult, is by seeds sown in sphagnum moss in spring.