Making a Green Christmas 4

Many of the broad-leaved evergreens are suitable for our purpose. American holly (Ilex opaca) has dull leaves in contrast to the dark and shining foliage of the English holly (Ilex aquifolium). American holly is hardier than the English, but not nearly so handsome. The leaves and fruits of both are very decorative.

The leaves of evergreens vary in size and color. Boxwood (Buxus), Japanese holly (Ilex crenata), western huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum), and the evergreen barberries (Berberis) are all small-leaved. Rhododendrons, mountain laurel (Kalmia lati-folia), evergreen privets (Ligustrum) and leucothoe have larger and longer leaves. Those of the galax are round, dark green and bronzy in color. English ivy (Hedera helix) also gives a rounded effect; the Oregon holly grape (Ma-honia) and the hollies (Ilex) are more pointed.

Some plants should not be cut, unless they are plentiful on your own property. California laurel (Umbellularia californica), mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) and ground pine (Lycopodium) need protection until the supply in­creases. The lycopodiums spread by running stems, which careless harvesters root up in great masses. It takes seven years for a plant to reach maturity from a spore, so the need for protection is apparent.

All evergreens should be cut carefully with clean, sharp shears so that wounds will quickly heal. Proper cutting stimulates growth and thickens the plant. Although the correct time for pruning is before new growth starts, winter trimming does no harm.

Bundles of mixed evergreens are obtainable from most nurserymen at Christmas time. Many nurseries also ship gift boxes of greens, a present welcomed by those who make their own Merry Christmas. Collections usually in­clude fir, leucothoe, galax leaves, holly and Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius).

The broom is linear in form and fine for arrangements. Add a few suitable berries to these gift materials, arrange them artistically, and a really satisfying decoration will result. (Drawing 23, top)

If these evergreens are not available in quantity, preparation for Christmas should not stop with buying and setting up a tree. Instead acquire two trees. Cut up the extra one for wreaths and other decorations.

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Chapter3 Fruit Out of Season