In April we almost complete the sowing of seeds for giving flowers and vegetables during the current summer; we stimulate the growth of young plants that have sprung from earlier sowings by hoeing; and we give more room to seedlings that are getting crowded in boxes.

If our start for the year is made in April, we push on soil preparation as rapidly as possible, in order to be able to get our sowing and planting done in the early part of the month.

We finish planting Roses, and also pruning. The weakly sorts, whether grown as dwarfs or standards, are pruned hard, the strong sorts lightly. As regards the pruning of climbing Roses, most of the popular sorts of the present day produce long rods. The old ones may be removed or cut back, the young preserved for flowering.

Hardy annuals of all kinds may be sown in April. With the soil crumbly and moist, germination is rapid. Sweet Peas may be sown, and strong plants that have been raised under glass planted out in clumps or rows.

Where grass plots are being made from seed, sowing may be done in April provided the weather is mild and still, but it is unwise to sow in cold or windy weather.

The planting of the herbaceous border and rockery may be completed. Those who have collections of representative plants may like to consider adding modern varieties, in order to add fresh interest.

Gladioli may be planted, and measures taken to repress wireworm, which is very destructive to this beautiful plant.

Most of the principal climbers and small shrubs may be planted, and the earlier it is done the better. The soil should be well prepared.

Half-hardy annuals may be sown out of doors in the latter half of the month if the weather is fine.

With respect to indoor plants, the lovely winter-flowering Begonia Gloire de Lorraine may be propagated by cuttings, and seedling tuberous Begonias and other small seedlings pricked off. Cinerarias may be sown for the following winter's bloom. Fuchsias may be started into growth, and propagated by cuttings.

Young plants of various kinds may be pinched in order to make them bushy, and staked if necessary. Poinsettias may be propagated by pieces of the old stem, Aspidistras by portions of the creeping root, and Crotons, Dracaenas and India-rubber plants by "mossing" the stems.

Room plants may be cleansed by sponging, and repotted.

The grafting of fruit trees should be completed.

Vines must be ventilated, tied, and stopped. Early Grapes must be thinned.

A frame may be prepared for Melons, and seeds sown.

Insects must be destroyed directly they show.

As regards vegetables, seeds may be sown of nearly all the most important kinds, including Peas and Beans. Potatoes may be planted. Young Celery and Tomatoes should be pricked off. Artichokes of all kinds may be planted.

April is a good month for making an Asparagus bed, and for planting roots and sowing seeds of this delicious vegetable.

Beetroot and Dwarf French Beans may be sown towards the end of the month; also late Broccoli, Cauliflowers, and Savoys.

Cucumbers may be top-dressed and fruiting plants pruned.

Horse Radish may be planted, and Mint divided.

Onions raised under glass in winter may be planted out.