5 JULY 1935, Page 20

Lilies at the R.H.S.

The fortnightly shows of the R.H.S. grow better and better, and more and more popular ; and the first July shows will be of particular interest. They will represent a very definite endeavour to extend the vogue of the lily. The variety is now immense, but many gardeners seem to have fears of attempting their growth, due perhaps to fear of the lily disease which so often avoids the madonna lilies of the cottage garden to fall upon the plants of more elaborate beds. Many lilies may be called friendly flowers they delight in close association with other plants. In one of our best country-house gardens they arc associated with heaths ; and the old standard view seems to be corroborated that many lilies like their feet in the shade and their heads in the sun. This accounts perhaps for the great perfection of the madonna lily in cottage gardens which, as a rule, are crowded with plants. We can increase our lilies without sacrificing a single existing plant. W. BEACH THOMAS.