Vines on an overhead trellis combined with trees give complete shade. But the vines must be carefully selected. Many are rampant and must be continually restrained by constant pruning; others are subject to insects and other pests and are continually dropping leaves and debris.

Advantage, too, must be taken of prevailing summer breezes. Over a greater section of the country, these are generally southeast or southwest. But check your locality for this factor. The top of a hill or other height usually has a breeze in addition to other advantages. But you may require protection from sweeping winds in winter and spring and, not infrequently, in summer too. A windbreak is needed at that point and this is obtained by planting fast-growing, dense shrubs.

It should be so placed that it does not interfere with the summer breezes. Strong winds generally rise in the northwest or northeast; there are local differences, of course. The terrace at the foot of a slope, though protected from winds, could be both very hot and very cold. Provision must be made accordingly. Cold air, like water, flows downhill to collect in pockets at lower levels unless some means are used to permit it to drain away.

An enclosed terrace is a trap. You'll wonder why the floor is so cold and why the plants on the terrace get the first frost. Cold air can be diverted from the terrace by a barrier, either a low fence or hedge which, curving around the terrace, conducts the air away from it. For circulation when cool air is welcome, one or two openings in the hedge or fence (such as low gates) which can be opened and closed when necessary will provide the proper control.

When it is desired to have as many plantings as possible around a patio or terrace, a space for growing plants must be left between the floor and the side wall of the house. Twelve inches provides for vines, two or more feet are necessary for shrubs. Or, a substitute arrangement can be made for tubs or plant boxes. When the structure is not enclosed on any side by a house wing, a low hedge or loose flowering shrubs on one or two sides, give a feeling of enclosure.

A spacious terrace calls for a spacious planting. If the floor is entirely of flagstones or other paving, the greater part should be in shade through the hottest part of the day. A three-foot minimum space must be left between the floor and side wall of the house for a heavy planting. Use evergreens, Rhododendron, azaleas and other broad-leafed evergreens where these are grown. Dwarf conifers, or other soft leafed plants are suitable in other regions.

Select plants which are entirely free from pests to avoid the problem of spraying. Many small terraces lend themselves to annuals, perennials and the like throughout the spring and summer. This is the most economical kind of planting. Carried out with taste, a colorful and charming picture can result.