The fact that the plant possesses such sturdy independence of character greatly enhances its value and usefulness.  Nothing more handsome can be imagined in a border than the gigantic spikes of the Tall varieties, and they make a magnificent decoration for vases at a season when flowers suitable for cutting are much needed.  The Intermediate Antirrhinums, like the Tall class, combine advantages for both bedding purposes and for cutting, perhaps in a still greater degree.  The varieties are so numerous and charming that an enthusiast has suggested the desirability of devoting a garden to Antirrhinums alone.  Although the Tom Thumb section is also frequently employed for bedding, these dwarf-growing varieties are better adapted for ribbon borders, or as an edging to carriage drives.

Antirrhinums may be grown as half-hardy annuals or as perennials, but the former is the simplest course for obtaining plants for summer bedding.  Sow the seeds in pans or boxes from January to March, and prick off the seedlings as soon as large enough to handle.  Grow on steadily and gradually harden off in readiness for planting out after the Wallflowers and other spring bedders have been removed.  After flowering it will save trouble to consign the plants to the waste heap and again raise a sufficient supply to fill their places in the following spring.  When grown as perennials, seed should be sown in July or August.  Leave the plants in the seed-bed until ready for transfer to final positions.  These will stand the winter and come into flower earlier than plants from spring-sown seed.

==Aquilegia==

==Columbine.  Hardy perennial==

Since the introduction of the long-spurred hybrid varieties the Aquilegia has become exceedingly popular.  Like the Nasturtium, it is particularly accommodating in character, and will thrive on poor soil and amid surroundings altogether uncongenial to many other subjects.  Several of the fine varieties which have been recently introduced are, however, worthy of a place in the best of borders.  Sow in February or early in March in a frame, and plant out when strong enough, or sow in June in an open border.  If the season is favourable, those sown early may bloom the first year; the remainder will flower in the year following.

==Asparagus==

==Greenhouse foliage varieties.  Half-hardy perennials==

The finely laciniated foliage of =A. plumosus= is greatly prized for bouquets, and the plant invariably commands attention as a decorative subject on the table or in the conservatory. =A. decumbens= has long tremulous branches of elegant dark green foliage, and the plant is admirably adapted for hanging-baskets. =A.  Sprengeri= is distinct from both, but is also very ornamental in baskets.  Sow all three varieties in pans during February or March, in heat; prick off the seedlings immediately they are large enough to handle, and grow on in gentle heat until the beginning of June, when cool-house treatment will suit them.