LIBRARY

OF THE

MASSACHUSETTS

AGRICULTURAL

COLLEGE

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[June 30, 1906.

THE

GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

% Muhh) lllustnttctr |onntiiI

OF

HORTICULTURE AND ALLIED SUBJECTS.

(ESTABLISHED IN 1S41.)

VOL XXXIX. -THIRD SERIES.

JANUARY TO JUNE, 1906.

LONDON :

41, WELLINGTON STREET, COVENT GARDEN, W.C.

1906.

The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

[June 30, 1906.

JotA* — O ^

INDEX OF CONTENTS

JANUARY TO JUNE, 1906.

(For Special Headings see under Books ; Certificates ; Law Notes ; Nursery Notes ; Obituary ; Plant Portraits
Plants New; Scientific Committee; Societies; and Illustrations.)

ABBOTsnuPY, Magnolias at, 381

Aberdeen, lectures on gardening
at, 408

Abies Delavayi, 212 ; A. Fargesii,
212 ; A. squamata, 299

Acacia podalyriaafolia at La Mor-
tola, 213

Achimenes and Tyd^as, the culture
of, 74, 84

Aconite, winter, a double flowered
form of, 139

Aconitum autumnale, a white form
of, 45

Adams, J., Guide to the Principal
Families of Flowering Plants, 389

Agapanthus globosus, culture of,
325

Agricultural College, a Scotch, 233 ;
South Eastern, 58, 297, 407, 422

Agricultural Settlement for Women,
a proposed, 41

Agriculture in the sand deserts, 185

Alkali wash for hardy fruit trees,
76

Almond flowering, the, 138

Alpine garden, the, 105, 165, 214,
235, 259, 325, 381

Alps, vegetation of the high, 386

America, employment for gardeners
in, 84 ; method of cultivating
Carnatiorwi in, 417

American Carnations, 104, 145 ;
Gooseberry-mildew, 387 ; florists'
method of conducting business,
169 ; parks, 90 ; universities, in-
comes of some, 233

Angraecum Kotschyi, 378

Anthracite coal, questionable offers
of, 41, 61

Anthurium, an erratic, 267

Anthuriums, recent varieties of, 171

Ants, white, injuring timber,
remedy for, 11

Apiary, the, 39, 87, 135, 167, 199,
231, 279, 311, 327, 365, 404

Aponogetonaceae, a monograph of
the Natural Order, 73

Apple and Pear pips, 121

Apple grafted on Hawthorn, 347 ;
orchards, 40 ; trees, canker in,
278 ; canker and frost-resisting, 2,
61, 78 ; trees in the open, cyanid-
ing, 220 ; barrels with false trade
mark, 136 ; foreign fruits not rot-
ting, 140, 173 ; home-grown and
out-door, 380 ; manures for, 21 ;
new varieties of, 173 ; the cross-
fertilisation of, 3, 28; Charles
Ross, 76, 90 ; Cockpit, 52 ; French
Crab, 61 ; Lord Suffield (hardi-
ness of the flowers of), 28 ; Manx
Codlin, 51 ; Star of Devon, 359

Arachnanthe annamensis, 290

Arctotis, the garden species of, at
Kew, 313

Arizona, botanising in, 165

Armstrong College, Newcastle-
upon-Tyne, 10

Arundinaria nobilis flowering at
Pencariow, 173

Ashton-under-Lyne, a curious
custom at, 248

Asparagus, culinary, 384 ; A.
Sprengeri in hanging baskets,
29 ; with silver foliage, 10

Aspidistra seedlings, 251, 276

Asters attacked by Erysiphe cicho-
racearum, 355

Aubrietia tauricola alba, 294
Aucuba, origin of the name, 329
Australia, the flannel flower of, 90
Australian tree-grasses, 228
Azalea, beds of, 123
Azara Gilliesii, 74

Bacteria around forests, 282
Balanced rations for plants, 401
Balance in flowers, 296
Baltet, Charles, Chrysanth'eme et

Dahlia, 198; r Horticulture Flo-

rissante et Feconde, 367
Bananas, a list of species and

varieties of, 89
Basic slag for lawns, 112
Basket, a new, for market Straw-
berries, 11
Baskets, hanging flower, 29
Battersea Park in spring-time, 280
Beans, Lima, 368
Beckford Hall, Gloucestershire,

400
Bedding, novel modes of, 261
Beech tree, buried letters in trunk

of, 249
Bees, colour-sense in, 10
Beetle, the Pine, 369
Beet, sugar, experiments in grow.

ing, 137
Begonia Gloir© de Lorraine at

Pinkney Park, 90
Belgium, a horticultural paper for,

297, forestry in, 10 ; death, recent

losses to horticulture by, 201
Bell-flowers, hybrid, 409
Belvoir Castle, spring flowers at,

265
Benevolent Institution, Gardeners'

Royal, 25, 56, 59, 105, 265, 345,

367 ; annual dinner, 395
Betteshanger Park, changes at, 210
Bird-lime for catching rats, 138
Birmingham Botanic Gardens, 281 ;

horticultural exhibitions at, 120,

152, 346 ; parks, bulbous flowers

in the, 282
Books, a sale of gardening, 297,

387

Books, Notices of:— Alien Flora
of Britain [Stephen Troyle Dunn),
68 ; All about Swe«t Peas
(i?. Sydenham), 72; Art of Gar-
den Design in Italy (H. Inigo
'^'''Sg^y 324; Atlas of Japanese
Vegetation (Professor Miyoshi),
266 ; A travers le Caucase [Dr.
Emile Levier), 266 ; Book of Rarer
Vegetables (Geo. Wythes), 324;
Botanical Magazine, 25, 152, 216,
297, 367; British Weather Chart,
40 ; Cassell's Dictionary of Gar-
dening (W. P. Wright), 298;
Choice Vegetables (E. Senary),
57; Chrysanthemeet Dahlia, leur
entree en Europe, en France
(Charhs Baltet), 198; Climbers
and Wall Shrubs (Purefoy Fitz-
gerald), 361 ; Climbing Plants
(Chas. Darwin), 153 ; Congo
Flora, 266;. Country Gentleman's

Estate Book, 248; Culture of
Vegetables and Flowers (Sutton
&■ Sons), 202 ; Dictionnaire Icono-
graphique des Orchidees, 164,
361 ; Do Plants Think? (Argyll
Saxby), 57 ; Englishwoman's Year
Book and Directory for 1906, 73 ;
Exotic Forest and Park Trees for
Europe (Dr. Heinrich Mayr), 197 ;
Familiar Trees (Prof. Boulger],
367 ; Flora and Sylva, 121 ; Flora
Brasiliensis, 297, 404; Flora of
France, 201 ; Flora of Tropical
Africa, 122 ; Flora Sinensis, 24 ;
Forest Flora of New South
W'ales, 73, 91 ; French Flora (M.
Lcveille), 130; Fruit Growers'
Guide, 121 ; Garden Album and
Review (/. Weathers), 57; Gar-
dening Year Book, 136 ; Cluide to
the Principal Families of Flower-
ing Plants (/. Adams), 389;
Handbook of Dorchester, 202 ;
Handbook of Dorking and
Leatherhead, 329 ; Horticultural
Directory, 11 ; Horticultural Note
Book i/. C. Neivsham), 60 ; Hor-
tus Veitchii (James Vcitch &•
Sons), 265, 280. 297 ; Hortus Vilmo-
rinianus, 73; Hybrid Orchils
(Sander &> Sons), 216; Icones
Selectas, 407 ; Index Filicum,
248; In My Gaiden, 312; Irish
Gardening, 169 ; Italian Gardens
(//. Inigo I'riggs), 136; Jamaica
in 1905 (Frank Cundall), 41 ; Jour-
nal of Agricultural Science, 202 ;
Journal of the Japanese Horti-
cultural Society, 122 ; Journal of
the Kew Guild, 56 ; Journal of the
Royal Horticultural Society, 58,
386 ; Kew Bulletin, 201, 217, 233,
249, 296, 423; L'Art de Forcer
(Van den Heede), 89; L'Horticul-
ture Florissante et Feconde
(Charles Baltet), 367 ; Liberia [Dr.
Harry Johnston), 388; Manual of
Forestry (Dr. Schlich), 328;
Manuring (E. Owen Greening),
388; Mendelism (R. C. Punnett),
153 ; Monatsschrift der Deutschen
Gesellschaft fur Orchideenkunde,
248, 408 ; My Garden (Eden Phill.
totts), 418 ; My Garden Diary for
1906, 41 ; Natural History of
Selborne, 233 ; New Creations in
Plant Life-^W. S. Harwood), 37;
Nomenclature de tons les noms
de Roses Leon Simon and Pierre
Cochet), 407; One and All Gar-
dening (E. O. Greening), 67 ; Or-
chis (Prof. Vdo Dammer), 248,
408 ; Pictorial Gardening (G. F.
Mullin), 325; Pictorial Practical
Flower Gardening (IV. P. Wright
and E. J. Castle), 41 ; Pocket
Book of British Birds (E. F. M.
Elms), 313 ; Po'olications received,
11, 25, 42, 153, 170, 185, 203, 218,
2.33, 267, 282, 299, 313, 389, 423;
Reisen in Celebes (Paul and
Fritz Sarasin), 73; Roses, and
How to Grow Them (Anoiivmous),
85 ; School and Gardening (Wal-
ter P. Wright), 329; Species and
Varieties, their Origin by Muta-
tions [Dr. De Vries\, 264 ; Studio
Year Book of Decorative Art,
342 ; Surinam, enumeration of the

vascular plants known from (Dr.
A. Ftille), 232; Sweet Pea An.
nual, 40 ; The Bamboo Magazine,
73; The Book of Cut Flowers
(R. P. Brotherston), 117; The Book
of the Winter Garden (D. S.
Fish), 130; The Fern Paradise
(Francis George Heath), 68, 91,
232; The Forester (John Nisbet),
3 ; The Garden Beautiful, and
How to Make it so (.4. C. Curtis),
361 ; The Handy Book on Prun-
ing (James V dale), 26; "The
Tatur Disees " and other Essays
(C. T. Drtcery), 298; Traite d'Fx-
ploitation Commerciale des Bois
(M. Mathey), 265 ; Transactions
of the Royal Scottish Arboricul-
tural Society, 297 ; Webster's
Foresters' Pocket Diary (A. D.
Webster), 40; Where to Live
(Prescoit Row), 202; W. H. Smith
and Sons' Annual, 73 ; Wild
Fauna and Flora of Kew, 217;
Willing's Press Guide, 40 ;
Writers' and Artists' Year Book,
73 ; Year Book of New South
Whales, 137
Boilers, greenhouse, 121, 188, 251,

284
Bordeaux mixture and the Potato

disease, 122
Botanical Exchange Club, 407
Botanic Gardens, St. Petersburg, 90
Botanists, British, in Pretoria, .^/8
Botanists, portraits of, 249, 367
Bothy accommodation, the mone-
tary value of, 336
Bo tree of Buddh Gaya, 137
Eotrytis cinerea (grey-rot of Vines),

42
Bottle, a new fruit preserving, 191
Bougainvillea formosa, culture of,

149
Boulger, Prof. (Familiar Trees), 367
Bouquet of Pansies, a royal, 330
Boycotting judges at flower shows,

15
Brasso-Cattleya, " The Baron,"
281 ; B.-C. " Mrs. Francis Wei-
lesley," 422
Broccoli and Cauliflowers, 420
Broccolis at Wisley gardens, 141
Brotherston, K. P. (The Book of Cut

Flowers), 117
Browallia speciosa major, 214
Brussels Botanic Garden, 10
Bryanthus Breweri, 364
Buddleia asiatica, 106
Bud-rot in Cocoanut Palms, 11
Bulb garden, the, 171
Burbidge, the late F. W., ]iroposed
memorial to, 346, 387 ; sale of
books of, 387

Cabbage crops, the spring, 242, 315,

333, 347, 384
Cabbage, Ellain's Early, 315, 333,

347, 362, 384
Calanthe Veitchii, a sport of, 14
Calathea AUouya, 72
Calceolaria mexicana, 267

The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906. 111.

Calceolarias, herbaceous, 410;

hybrid, 390, 407
■Calcutta Botanic Gardens, 4'J ;
horticultural show at, 232

California, effect of the earthquake
in, 329

Calla Elliottiana with a double
spathe, 298

Campanulas, hybrid, 409

Canker and frost-resisting Apples,
2, 61, 78

Canker in fruit trees, 176

Carbolic acid as a fungicide, 411

Carnation, derivation of the name,
14 ; history of the remontant,
408; in French literature, 97,
140, 408 ; Coronation, 107 ; Prin-
cess of Wales, 391 ; Souvenir de
la Malmaison, 391 ; American
tree, 104, lib, 180, 195, 298;
American culture of, 417 ; a
bouquet of, 122 ; moth attacking,
336 ; a society for winter-flower-
ing, 78, 91, 105, 123, 233, 251, 370

Cassiope hypnoides, 226, 268

Cattleya Schroederse alba, 300 ; C.
S. and other Orchids at Glebe-
lands, 211 ; C. Trianas delicata
at Scampston Hall, 107; C. T.
" William Bass," 211

Celsia arcturus, 276; C. cretica,
45, 423

Centaurea candidissima, propagat-
ing, 308

Cereals and silica, 369

Certificated Fruits and Vege-
tables : — Broccoli Sutton's Late
(Jueen, 254; Richmond Late
White, 254 ; Peerless, 317 :
Citrus japonica fructu elliptico,
30 ; Cucumber Bounteous, 394 ;

Certificated Plants. — Acros-
tichum decoratum, 354; Antir-
rhinum "Cottage Maid," 425;
Arachnanthe annamensis, 286 ;
Asparagus Colmanni, 109 ; Be-
gonia Alice, 353; B. Millicent,
354 ; B. Mrs. J. B. Blackmore,
354 ; Brassavola glauca, 30 ; Bras-
so-Cattleya Digbyana Mendeli
var. Fortuna, 158; B.-C. Mrs.
Francis Wellesley, 254; B.-C.
Pyrrha, 30 ; B.-C. The Baron,
223 ; Buddleia asiatica, 62 ;
Calanthe X Harrisii, 30 ; Calan-
the vestita nigro-oculata gigantea,
30 ; Caltha polypetala, 253 ; Car-
nation Britannia, 190 ; C. Elliott's
Queen, 157; C. H. Elliott, 285;
C. Mrs. H. Burnett, 109 ; C. Mrs.
Willie James, 354 ; C. Nelson
Fisher, 157 ; Catasetum splendens
punctatissimum, 30; Cattleya in-
termedia White Queen, 317 ; (".
Mendeli " Mercury," 350 ; C. M.
Mrs. Frederick Knollys, 394 ; C.
Mossiae Mrs. A. Goodson, 426;
C.-M. Mrs. Jeremiah Colman,
350; C. M. Reineckiana, 394; C.
M. R. The Baron, 394; C. M.
Victoria Regina, 394 ; C. X Oc-
tave Doin, 63 ; C. Trianae J.
Gurney Fowler, 223 ; C. T. " The
Premier," 110; C. T. "Weston-
birt variety," 110 ; C.-Whitei
splendidissima, 426 ; Cirrhope-
talum Amesianum, 426 ; Clematis
Lady Northcliffe, 354; Clero.
dendron capitatum, 11 ; Cycas
Micholitzii, 222 ; Cymbidium
Colmanas x 286 ; C. ebur-
n e o-g i g an t eum, 110; C.
eburneo-Lowianum, 223 ; C.
grandiflorum punctatissimum,
223 ; C. I'Ansoni, 223 ; C. Lowi-
anum, " Fir Grange variety,"
2-3 ; C. Lowio-grandiflorum, 110 ;
Cynorchis compacta, 158 ; Cypri.
pedium x Alcibiades magniti-
cura, 30; C. aureum Hyeanum,
191; C. aureum virginaie, 110;
C. X Bella, 30 ; C. bellatulum
"Exhims variety," 286 ; C. Box-
alli nigricans, 110 ; C. X Bridgei,
63 ; C. Earl of Tankerville, 30 ;

C. Edithae Rowena, 110 ; C. G.
F. Moore variety punctatissimum,
110; C. gigas Oxoniensis, 394;
C. Lawienceanum Hackbridg-
ense, 394; C. Miss Louisa Fowler
var. superba, 317 ; C. niveum
The Premier, 286 ; C. Rothschild,
ianum " Northaw variety," 286 ;

C. villosum "The Premier," 191 ;
Chysis Sedeni, 286 ; I3aphnc
rupestris, 354 ; Davallia canan-
ensis elegans, 157 ; D. solida
variety superba, 316 ; Dendro-
bium Brodiei, 110; D. nobile
"Perfection," 158; D. Othello
Colossus, 110; D. shillongense,
254; D. Wiganiae illustre, 158;

D. Wiganianum, 158 ; D. Wigani-
anum, " Gatton Park variety,"
158 ; Dianthus Spencer Bickham,
316; Epidendrum confusum,
394; E. odoratissimum, 286;
Epiphronitis Veitchii, 317 ; Free-
sia Tubergeni, 157 ; Gladiolus Ne
I'lus Ultra, 354; Gloriosa Roth-
schildiana citrina, 392 ; Hippeas-
trum Agamemmon, 222; H.
Brian Born, 222; H. Field Mar-
shal, 222; H. Jasper, 353; H.
Marjory, 222; H. Pearl Maiden,
222; H. Rose Madder, 3.03;
Iloulletia odoratissima var.
xanthina, 426 ; Iris Hectate,
316 ; Lachenalia Brightness,
109; Laelia anceps Fascina-
tor, 110; L. a. Schroderiana,
1 10 ; Laelio-Brasso-Cattleya X
Veitchii, 254 ; L.-C. Baroness
Schroder var. delicata, 254 ; L.-C.
callistoglossa, "The Dell variety,"
254 ; L.-C Canhamiana "Jleteor"
394 ; L.-C. X Helena, 30 ; L.-C.
Hopkinsi, 223; L.-C. illustris
niagnifica, 223 ; L.-C. Kathleen
Grey, 394; L.-C. Myra, 110;
L.-C. Phoebe, " Gatton Park
variety," 394 ; L.-C. Sunray su-
perba, 191 ; Lissochilus Hors-
lallii, 158; Luddemanniana Pes-
catorei, 394 ; Lycaste costata,
110; L. Skinneri Beauty, 191;
Masdevallia, Becking hybrid,
223 ; M. Harryana, " Gatton Park
variety," 350 ; M. ignea, " Bur-
ford variety," 286; >L igneo-
Estradae, 223 ; M. Veitchiana
grandiflora, 223 ; Maxillaria
arachnites, 110; M. molitor,
426 ; Mertensia primuloides,
253 ; Miltonia vexillaria "Me-
moria G. D. Owen," 317;
Narcissus Brilliancy, 222 ; N.
Foster, 285 ; N. Masterpiece, 285 :
N. Mrs. Robert Sydenham' 222;
N. odorus rugulosus maximus,
253; N. Pearl of Kent, 253; N.
Princess Ena, 285; N. The Ris-
ing Sun, 222 ; N. Warleyensis,
253 ; Nephrolepis exaltata
elegantissima, 354 ; N. e. super-
ba, 354 ; Odontoglossum Adrianae
aureum, 254 ; O. amabile " John
Bradshaw," 254 ; O. ardentissi-
mum '"Venus," 350; O. crispum
aureum Laburnum, 317 ; O. c.
Eustace, 286 ; O. c. Jeannette,
254 ; O. c. Lady Buchan, 254 ; O.
c. Rossendale, 254 ; O. c. Venus,
254, 286; O. c. Whateleyje,
254 ; O. c. xanthotes, Wal-
kerae, 394 ; O. excellens,
" The Dell variety," 317 ; O.
Fowlerianum, 158 ; O. Lambeau-
ianum, 110 ; O. Lambeauianum
roseum, 191 ; O. luteo-purpu-
reum " Mossii," 286; O. percul-
tum " Juno," 350 ; O. p. Meteor,
223; O. p. "Orion," 350; O.
Pescatorei Schroderianum, 254 ;
O. Queen Alexandra var. Car-
men, 426; O. Rossii immacula-
tum, 158 ; O. triumphans Lionel
Crawshay, 254; O. W. H. Hat-
cher, 254 ; Odontonia Heaton-
ense x , 158 ; Oncidium mona-
chicum, 394 ; Paeonia M.
Charles Leveque, 425 ; Pa-
paver orientale Mrs. Perry, 392 ;

P. o. Queen Alexandra, 392;
Pelargonium Clorinda, 285 ;
Phaius Doris, 350 ; P. macula-
tus, 63 ; Phalasnopsis violacea
" Heaton variety," 394 ; Pleione
Yunnanensis, 158 ; Polypodium
phymatodes corymbosum, 157;
Quekettia Jenmani, 395; Rhodo-
dendron "Gill's Triumph," 253;
R. Gomer Waterer, 393; R. Mar-
chioness of Tweedale, 354 ; R.
Mrs. E. C. Stirling, 316 ; R. Vis-
count Powerscourt, 393 ; R.
White Pearl, 222; Rose Frau
Karl Druschki (climbing), 190;
R. Hiawatha, 354; R. Madame
G. Gravereaux, 425; R. Princess
Ena, 190 ; R. Kathleen, 354 ; Saxi.
fraga oppositifolia var. coccinea,
253 ; Sobralia Holfordi, 426 ;
Sophro-Cattleya Warnhamensis
" Cerise," 158 ; Spathoglottis
Colmani, 110 ; Stelis muscifera,
426 ; "Thunbergia mysorensis,
222 ; Thunia Marshalliana al-
ba, 426; T. Veitchiana, "Bur-
ford variety," 394; Tulipa
Fosteriana, 285 ; T. Greigi alba,
285; T. Beauty of Bath, 317; T.
Gesneriana lutea, 316; T. Hen-
ner, 317; T. Inglescombe Yel-
low, 317; T. Isis, 317; T. Millet,
317 ; T. Psvche, 317 ; T. W^alter
T. Ware, 317 ; T. Yellow Picotee,
317; Verbena SnowHake, 393;
Vitis Henryana, 354

Cestrura Smithii, 276, 300

Ceylon Botanic Gardens, 225

Ceylon, rubber cultivation in, 202

Chalk, effect of, on plant growth
and .manures, 210

Charlock, how to destroy, 368

Cherry, Bird-, with rose-coloured
flowers, 202

Cherries, forcing, by means of
ether, 153

Chicory and hares, 301

Chicory, Venetian, 34

Chinese Conifers, new, 146, 178,
212, 236, 299

Chinese flora, the, 24

Chinese note-book, leaves from my,
12, 27, 60, 101, 138, 16.'i. 179, 258,
293, 331, 402, 419 [E. 11. Wilson)

Chinese species of Magnolia, 234

Chinese spirit, the manufacture of,
from Sorghum vulgare, 194

Chironia ixifera, culture of, 48

Chives, culture of, 3C1

Christmas-rose, the St Brigid's, 46

Chrysanthemum Baron de Vinols,
51, 91 ; W. J. Crossley, 251

Chrysanthemums, an audit of, 19 ;
an exhibition group of, 89 ; ex-
hibiting, 50 ; large, 2'29, 297

Cider, a new market for, 57

Cinchona barks, 57

Cirrhopetalums, 378

Citrus japonica fructo elliptico, 4G

Climate and tree growth, 35, 76,
181, 213 ; and vegetation, 389

Clock, the floral, 388

Clover, red, 388

Coal, anthracite, questionable offers
of, 46, 61

Cocoanuf Palm, bud-rot disease of
the, 11

Coelogyne cristata, unusual flower-
ing of, 172, 204

Colonial Exhibition, a, 184, 205, S70

Colonial Notes, 28, 70, 164, 214,
225, 275, 332, 362, 398

Colour-sense in Bees, 10

Commissions, nurserymen's, 297

Concerts in aid of Garden Chari-
ties, 42, 73

Conifer, a new genus of, 165

Conifers : for large groups, 69, 107 ;
in Britain, an ,'\merican's view
of, 233; new Chinese, 146, 178,
212, 236, 299

Coreopsis Grantii, 162

Corylopsis Griffiithii, 210; C.
sinensis, 18, 220; C, the genus,
18, 220

Costa Rica, the flora of, 138

Cotton, British-grown, handker-
chiefs made of, 25

Cotton plant, the, and weevils, 185-
Country-in-town movement, the,-

42, 121, 265, 329, 423
Covent Garden Market, 209 ; retail-

ing bedding plants at, 363
Crataegus pyracantha var. Lelandi,

380
Cricket bats, willow wood for, 62
Croquet lawn, how to lay out a, 256
Cross-fertilisation of Apples, the,

3; of plants, 204
Cucumber, Carter's Earliest of AIL

347
Cucumbers, a trial of, 371
Cultural memoranda, 5, 74, 84, 102-

116, 133, 149, 171, 178, 237, 325,

384, 410
Culzean Castle, plants in flower at»

123
Customs House definitions oj

seeds, 329
Cvaniding plant houses, 85, 124>

140, 142, 156, 172, 220 ; a patent

safety machine for, 203
Cymbilium Lowianum at Craigen-

hall Gardens, 315
Cypripedium Alcibindes magnifi-

cum, 52; C. Mrs. A. W. Sutton,

211; C. X Sidneyanum, 2; C.

tessellatum rubens, 19 ; C. Tha-
lia Mrs. Francis Wellesley, 5 ; C.

tiheticum, 346
Cystopteris fragilis sempervirens

91 ; C. montana, unusual repro-
duction in, 313

Daffodil, the advent of the, 178

Daffodils, earliest flowering, 124,
251 ; in Ireland, 347

Dalkeith Palace Gardens, Edin-
burgh, 33; heating arrangements
in, 96

Dammer, Dr. Udo, 57

Davidia involucrata, 346

Dean's, the late Richard, collection
of portraits, 105

Debrjgeasia velutina, 232

Delphiniums, 332

Dendrobium litoreum, 291 ; D.
Phaleenopsis, a malformed flower
of, 282; D. thyrsiflorum Galli-
ceanura,-291 ; D. Waidianum, 98 ^
D. W., a fine plant of, 205;
D. W., the culture of, 148; D.
Wiganianum, " Gatton Park
variety," 219

Dendrobiums at Gatton Park, 73 \
at Woodhatch, 163

D,'nning, William, appointed
County Magistrate, 282

De Vries, Dr. {Species and Varieties,
their Origin by Mutation), 264

Deveuxia elegans variegata, the cul-
ture of, 133

Dianthiis Freynii, 381

Disease of Lucerne, a fungoid, 122

Douglas Fir, a new pest of the, 57

Draba elata, 363

Dunn, Stephen T. {Alien Flora of
Britain), 68

Earthquake in California, the, 329

Eckford Memorial Cup, the, 10

Edinburgh, Botanic Gardens at,
56 ; East Princes Street Gardens
at, 360

Education, horticultural, in Mon-
mouthshire, 184 ; and routine,
406

Edwards's safety cyaniding ma-
chine, 203

Electricity and street trees, 304 ; for
aiding the growth of crops, 217

Elder, flowering of, 248

Elm branches falling from trees,
12 ; used in the construction of a
pergola, rooting of, 35

Engkala fruits, 368

;0863

iv. The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906.

Epacris as greenhouse plants, 134
Jiranthis hyemalis, a double-
flowered form of, 139
Eremurus Aucherianus, 298
Erigenia bulbosa, 210
Eriosteinons, 203

Ether, forcing Cherries and Straw-
berries by means of, 153
Ether, forcing plants by the aid of,

68, 298 ^
Eucalyptus coccifera at Powder-
ham, 411
Eucalyptus Globulus in Jersey, the

old, 281
Eupatorium petiolare culture oi,

149
Eupatoriums, culture of, 171
Euphorbia, Wulfenii, 331
Evelyn, John, bi-centenary of the

death of, 133
Evesham, a French market garden

at, 173
Examinations in horticulture, 90,
106, 124, 141, Ihb, 168, 333, 370

Fruit register, 13, 45, 51, 76; trees
and canker, 176 ; trees, fungus on
the roots of, 267 ; in the open,
cyaniding, 220 ; the periods of
flowering seen in varieties of,
225 ; winter dressing for hardy,
76

Fruit walls in winter, dressing, 107

Fruits under glass, management of,
7, 22, 38, 64, 70, 87, 103, 118, 134,
151, 166, 183, 198, 215, 231, 216,
262, 278, 294, 311, 326, 343, 365,
384, 405, 421

Fumigation with hydrocyanic acid
gas, 85, 124, 140, 142, 156, 172,
203, 220 (see Cyaniding)

Fungicide, carbolic acid as a, 411

Fungi, three-spored, 205

Fungoid diseases and the need for
legislation, 12, 52, 74, 107

Fungus on roots of fruit trees, 207

Factory Act and Florists, 104

Fernery, the, 26, 211, 229

Fern reproduction, Druery on, a

naw form of, 26, 229, 313
Ferns, hardy, spnng treatment of,

211
Fertilisation, cross, of plants, 204
Fig trees out-of-doors, protecting,

14
Finsbury Fark, gardening at, 217
Fir Grange, Weybridge Heath, 227
Flannel flower 'of Australia, the,

90 •
Floral Clocks, 388
Floral decorations, an exhibition

of, 172, 411
I'lora of China, the, 24 (see also

" Chinese ")
Flora of the Holy Land, 257
FUnists and the Factory Act, 104
Florist's business, an American,

169
Flower garden, work in the, 6, 23,
39, 54, 71, 86, 103, 119, 135, 151,
167, 183, 199, 215, 231, 247, 263,
279, 295, 310, 327, 343, 364, 381,
405, 421
Flower Lovers' Association, the

Leo Grindon, 202
Flower pots, worms in, 391
Flowers, balance in, 296 ; early, at
Leonardslee, 78 ; from Leonards-
lee gardens, 301 ; in season, 8,
73, 90, 153, 184, 282, 312, 330,
345, 369, 387, 407 ; spring, in the
south-west, 357 ; the progressive
opening of, shown by means of
photographs, 223
-Footpaths, the preservation of, 388
Forcing plants and fruit trees by
means of ether, 153, 298

■ Eoreign correspondence, 84, 164,

213, 300, 330, 359
forestry, 11, 76, 181, 213, 328
.Forestry and climate, 35, 76 ; a
school of, in South Africa, 122 ;
British, 203 ; in Belgium, 10 ; m
New South Wales, 58; in the
Midlands, 298 ; instruction at
Armstrong College, Newcastle-
upon-Tyne, 367
Fountain,' the bubble, 361
Freesias propagated from seeds, 310
French Agricultural Journal, a,
73; gardening at Evesham, 173;
methods of market-gardening,
230
Fruiterers' Company at dinner, 72
Fruit blossom, protection of, from
frost, 186, 313, 391

■ Fruit Growers' Federation, the

National, 122, 175
•Fruit industry, the, and telephonic
communication, 41
Truit prospects in Germany, the,
369; in South-East Essex, 332,
391

Galanthus Gottwaldi, 105 ; G.

nivalis flavescens, 165
Gall, the Currant or Grape, of

Oaks, 356
Garden cities, 42 ; ornaments, 328 ;

pots, 121
Gardeners' Debating Societies, pro-
posed federation of, 107, 155,

315
Gardeners, English, in the United

States, 84 ; an international

society of, 301
Gardener's two sons members of

Parliament, 57
Gardening, a new school of, 73 ; a

remedial agency, 266 ; for the

people, 161 ; school, 89
Garrya elliptica at Kew, 134
Gatton Park, Dendrobiums at, 73
Germany, the fruit prospects in,

369
Gesneras, the culture of, 84
Geum Eweni, a pretty rock-garden

plant, 214
Ghent, changes at, 298 ; Quinquen-
nial Exhibition, the next, 25
Gladiolus tristis, 370
Glebelands, Orchids at, 211
Gmelina hystrix, 179
Gnats, a cloud of, 391
Gooseberry caterpillar, the, 320 ;

mildew, American, 387
Grafting Vines, 176
Grape growing for market, 219 ;

thinnings, 218, 238
Grapes, Gros Colmar, 140 ; White

Nice and Diamant Traube, 46,

138, 156; out-of-doors, 20
Grass trees, Australian, 228
Greenwich Park, desire for a winter

garden in, 170
Guernsey, a week spent in, 305
Gulf States, the, and the Sarra-

cenias, 164
Gypsophila Rokejeki, 45

Hazel, flowering period of the, 72,

91
Heart, embalmed with Spices, 249
Heliotropes, giant, 86
Helleborus niger, 46
Heloniopsis breviscapa, 325
Hemerocallis, notable varieties of,

409
Herb garden, the, 78
Horticultural College, Swanley.

233 ; education and routine, 406 ;

Instructors, an association of, 58
Horticulture, examination in, 106,

124, 155, 168
House, a new style of plant pro-
pagating, 90
Houstonias, garden species of, 259
Himalayas, Western, spring flowers

in the, 321
Hippeastrum raised from flower

pollinated vvith a Crinum, 275
Hippeastrums, 177; a hardy race

of, 219; hvbrid, 202, 220; at

Kew, 35; 'at Tring Park, 90;

planted in the open garden, 301 ;

culture of, 116, 133
Holy Land, flora of the, 257
Hops, manuring of, 89
Hurst & Son, Musical Society, 249,

298
Hyacinthus lineatus, 210
Hydrocyanic gas, vaporising plant

houses with, 85, 124, 140, 142,

156, 172, 203, 220 (see Cyaniding)
Hydrocyanising Apple trees in the

open, 220

Idesia, polycarpa, 13

Income-tax, claim for return of, 123

India, horticulture in, 217

Inheritance, law of, 120

Insecticides, dangerous, 107

Ipomoeas, propagating, 308

Iris cretensis, 15; I. demavendica,

364; I. Sprengeri, 423; I.

stylosa, free-flowering of, 13 ; I.

tuberosa, 78, 91; I. verna,

flowering, 204
Irises : at Kew, 367, 386 ; bulbous,

171, 301 ; Oncocyclus, and their

allies, 193, 273
Irish gardening paper, a new, 169,

297
Ixora Williamsi and others, 411

H

Hackett, W., Mr., 281
Half-holiday for a garden staff, 153
Handkerchiefs made from British-
grown Cotton, 25
Hardv fruit garden, work in the, 7,
23, '38, 55, 71, 87, 103, 119, 135,
151, 167, 183, 199, 215, 231, 247,
263, 279, 295, 311, 325, 342, 365,
385, 405, 420
Hardy plants in flower at Christ-
mas in North Wales, 4
Hares and Chicory, 301
Hartham Park, Pears at, 43
Hats, natural trimmings for, 265
Hawfinches and Peas,l73, 189, 204,
238

Kitchen garden, work in the, 6, 23,
39, 54, 71, 87, 103, 119, 135, 151,
167, 183, 199, 215, 231, 247, 263,
279, 295, 311, 326, 342, 365, 385,
405, 421

ICniphofia caulescens at Cambridge
Botanic Gardens, 45

Kniphofias and their culture, £1,
100, 117

Kochia trichophylla, 141, 300

Laburnum, silver leaf diseases in,
332

Lailia x Nemesis " Tring Park va-
riety," 130

Lslio-Cattleya X exoniensis, 70

Landolphia Dawei, a new rubber-
producing plant, 337

Larch, a new Chinese, 178; Japa-
nese, at Bothalhaugh, 282

Larix Potanini, 178

Law Notes: — Bankruptcy of a
nurseryman, 122; W. and J.
Browii v. T. Smith, 408;
Poisoned birdseed, claim for,
219 ; Rhubarb damaged by sight-
seers, 122; Weed killer, illegal
sale of, 44

Law of inheritance in plants, 120

Lawn mowers, motor, 415

Lawns, manures for, 112

Lawrence, Sir Trevor, proposed
testimonial to, 281

Leaves from my Chinese Notebook
(E. H. Wihi-n), 12, 27, 60, 101,
138, 165, 179, 258, 293, 331, 402,
419

Legislation and fungoid disease.?,
52, 74, 107

Lemmon, Prof. J. G., in Mexico,
84

Lilac, the species of, 380

Lilium candidum, the seeding of,
233, 251, 283 ; giganteum, flower-
ing spikes of, 201 ; sutchuanense,
364, 416, 428

Lima Beans, 368

Lime bracts, persistent, 10

Lisianthus RusselHanus at
Eythorpe Gardens, 332

Lissochilus Horsfallii, 200

Lobelia tenuior, 276 »

Lockinge Park, Wantage, 65

Loft's Hall, Essex, rosary at, 115

London County Council gardeners,
the, 155

London markets and their supplies,
15, 162, 209, 408

Lucerne, a fungoid disease of, 122

Jacobinia Penrhosiensis x, 75
Japanese Coniferae, a new genus of,

165
Japanese vegetation, 266
Jasminum Maingayi, 35 ; J. niti-

dum, 276
Johannesburg, notes from, 236
Jones, J., presentation to, 265
Judges at flower-shows, boycotting,

15

K

Kalanchoe Dyeri, 296

Karr, Alphonse, a gardener-poet,
240

Kennedya prostrata var. Marryat-
tK, 210

Kew, Easter Monday at, 249, 329 ;
Bluebells at, 306 ; changes in the
staff at, 281 ; hardy plants at, 306 ;
notes from, 11, '25, 35, 75, 86,
134, 172, 186, 203, 210, 306, 312,
363, 378, 420 ; increased wages
at, 423 ; late flowering Tu-
lips at, 378; Rhododendrons at,
306 ; Irises at, 386, 312, 367 ; the
permanent staff at, 8 ; wild gar-
dening at, 248 ; Palace, 169

Killerton gardens revisited, 339

M

Macodes javanica, 216

Magnolia stellata, 260

Magnolias at Abbotsbury, 381 ;
Chinese species of, 234

Mallett (see Water Gardens)

Mangels, manures for, 122

Manitoba as a home for settlers,
297

Mannheim International Horticul-
tural Exhibition, 313, 378

Manure, the uses and misuses of,
138 ; for Apples, 21 ; for Hops,
89 ; for Mangels, 122 ; for Potatos,
121, 170 ; seaweed as a, 309

Manuscript, a famous old, 136

Maranta insignis, culture of, 133 ;
tigrina, culture of, 384

Market garden, French, at Eve-
sham, 173

Market gardening, 204, 219, 229,
244, 292

Markets, London, and their sup.
plies, 15, 162, 209, 408 •

Marshall, William, complimentary
dinner to, 24, 58, 158

Masdevallias at Woodhatch Lodge
14

The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906.

Massart, M., appointment as Pro-
fessor of Botany, 24

Massonia pustulata, 44

Mats, gaRien, an appliance for se-
curing, 104

Mayr, Dr. Heinrich [Premldndischc
Wald. und Parkbaiime jur
Euro pa), 197

Meconopsis integrifolia, 313

Megastigraus spermotrophus (pest
of Douglas Fir), 57

Melons in winter, 238

Melons, Mushrooms, and Tomatos
as market crops, 244

Mendelian theory, the, 120, 109,
187

Mexico, plant collecting in, 84

Michaelmas Daisies, modern, 235

Mildew, American Gooseberry, 387

Mimosa Denhardti, 45

Mistleto on Oaks and other trees,
205, 238

Models of plant pests, 185

Monmouthshire, horticultural edu-
cation in, 184

Montanoa bipinnatifida at Bordi-
ghera, 123

Montbretia " a fleur jaune," 86 ; M.
Vulcan, 86

Montbretias, 123, 155; and their
allies, 376

Morniodica lilatcrium, an old plant
of, 45

Morris, Sir Daniel, 407

Mosquitos, protection from, 3G8

Motor dust nuisance, 329 ; lawn
mowers, ,415

Mulching and watering, 397

Mullin, G. F. (rictorial Garden-
i?ig), 325

Mushrooms, edible, 266

Mutations, 264

Mutual Improvement Societies,
proposed federation of, 107

Mythical plants, 137

N

Narcissus disease (Ramularii
narcissi), 277; Pearl of Kent.
262, 292 ; N. Poetaz (new race of
Daffodils), 169; N. Tazetta,
colour variation in, 10
Natural selection among plants,
204, 220, 251, 268; the true pro-
vince of, 17
Nature study in Chester, 233
Nectarines, Balgowan, 45; Gcl-
doni, 51 ; diseased through gum-
ming, 320
Neill prize, winner of the, 369
New South NVales, forestry in, 58
New York Horticultural Society,

387
New Zealand plants, 217
Nicandra violacea, 302
Nicotiana Sandera;, 61, 70, 76, 214 ;

winter flowering of, 76, 91
Nidularium Innocenti striatum, 179
Nisbet, John (The Forester), 3
Nitrogen assimilated by plant-
hairs, Jameson on, 170
Nitrogen, the fixation of atmos-
pheric, 138, 368
Nomenclature of plants, 72
Novelties, plant, of 1905, 4, 27, 42
Nursery employees at dinner, 89

Nursery Notes : — Baker's Cod-
sail, 299; Barr & Sons, Ditton,
277; Bath, R. H., Wisbech,
277; Bide, S., Farnham, 102;
Cypher, Jas., & Sons, Chelten-
ham, 196 ; Ladds, P., Swanley,
21 ; Little and Ballantyne, Car-
lisle, 170 ; Rivers, T., & Sons,
Sawbridgeworth, 187 ; Walshaw
& Sons, Scarborough, 44

Nurseryman as councillor, 265

Nurserymen in Parkinson's time,
121 ; visit to Holland, 330, 359

Nymphaeas, new hardy, 73 ; suit-
able for a fountain, 64

Oakley Court, Windsor, 382

Obituary: — Allen, James, 175;
Barron, John, 303, 319 ; Barton,
Thomas, 207 ; Bath, John, 376 ;
Baxter, Robert Smith, 396, 411 ;
Beale, Dr. Lionel, 218 ; Berkeley,
R. E., 287; Bisset, J. P., 272;
Blackie, W. G., 376; Breese, W.
C, 126; Brightwen, Mrs. K.,
303; Burbidge, F. W., 10;
Cairns, John, 206; Clinging,
George, 207 ; Cooper, Eliza-
beth, 224 ; Crombie, Rev.
J. M., 320; EUwanger, George,
H., 329; Fierens, Krnest, 58;
Forrest, John, 126; Fream,
Dr. W., 369; Geert, Mad. A.
Van, 427; Hemslev, O. T.,
32, 72; Hill, Evelvn Eliza-
beth, 256; Honess, Mrs., 236;
Kenyon, R., 272; Kerchovc,
Comte de, 184, 200 ; Kersten, Jan
Hendrick, 272; Lye, James, 94;
Mafion, John, 256; Mair, G. W.,
47 ; Mansfield, Earl of, 287 ; May,
Mrs. H. B., 320; Milner, Henry
Ernest, 175 ; Newbigging, Thomas
K., 175; Moore, James, 63 ; N r-
man, George, 142, 155, 172; I'^l-
lett, H. M., 207; Sims, D. S.,
15; Sowerby, W., 175; Sutton,
Thos. H., 159; Swailes, Geo. (".,
303; Townsend, F., 233; Van
der Cruyssen, Edouard, 369 ;
Weir, Harrison, 16, 29, 31, 90;
Whale, W. L., 335; Windle, J.,
224

O'Brien, James, elected to Urban
Council, 218

Odontoglossum Cervantesii punc-
tatissimum, 291 ; O. crispum G.
W. Law-Schofield, 339; O. c.
Jean B. Peelers, 332; O. c. mal-
formed, 423; O. c. Fittia-
num sold for 1,150 guineas, 196;
O. c, variation in, 338; O. X
Fowlerianum, 163; O. Queen of
the Earth, 309; O. triumphans,
291

Odontoglossunis, past, present, and
future, 49

Oncidium auriferum, 70 ; O. con-
color at Soutligate, 265

Oncocvclus Irises and their allies,
193, '273

Onion, Webb's Masterpiece, 105

Onions in Anglo-Saxon times, 140

Orange, a new, 46, 59

Orange growing, climatic require-
ments for, 368 ; trees, the restora-
tion of sickly, 211

Orchards, Apple, 40 ; the making
of, 36, 99, 147

Orchid culture in India, 266 ;
houses, work in the, 6, 22, 38, 53,
70, 86, 102, 118, 134, 150, 166, 182,
198, 214, 230, 246, 262, 278, 294,
310, 326, 343, 364, 385, 404, 420 ;
hybrids, a list of, 216 ; notes and
gleanings, 2, 70, 83, 98, 130, 148,
163, 196, 211, 291, 332, 361, 378,
404 ; show at Mannheim, 378

Orchids, at Glebelands, 211 ; at
Rosslyn, Stamford Hill, 83; at
the Grange, Southgate, 131 ; at
Westonbirt, 113 ; in flower at
Kew, 75 ; purchased on the faith
of coloured drawings, 217 ; sales
of, 196, 346, 355

Orphan Fund, Royal Gardeners',
56, 105, 282, 312; annual meet-
ing, 110 ; annual dinner, 318

Package, the honest, 11
Peeonia Delava5'i lutea, 24
Palestine, flora of, 257
Pansies, a Royal bouquet of, 330
Parasitism, a lecture on, 286

Paris, botanical professorship at,

248 ; market gardeners on strike

at, 202
Parkinson's opinion of nurserymen,

121
Parrya Menziesii, 238
Parsley as an exhibition vegetable,

384
Peaches and Nectarines, raising,

from se.^d, 169
Pear Comte Lelieur, 13 ; Triomphe

de Tournai, 13
Peas and Hawfinches, 189, 204,

238 ; culinary, transplanting

early, 141
Pelargoniums Zonal, the culture

of, 102
Pentstem m, sowing seeds of, 28
Pests, plait, models of, 185
Petrea volubilis, 24
Phalaenopsis Luddem a n n i a n a

flowering from an old flower

scape, 259
Photinia serrulata flowering in

Cornwall, 173
Photographs, an exhibition of, 369,

388 ; showing the progressive

opening of flowers, 223, 267
Picea cooiplanata, a new species

from China, 146 ; P. montigena,

a new species from China, 140 ;

P. morindoides, a new Hima-
layan Spruce, 132, 274
Pictures, floral, at the Royal

Academy, 289
Pine Beetle, the, 369
Pinus insignis and P. radiata at

PencirrDw, 132
Pips, Apple and Pear, 121
Plant-diseases and the need for

legislation, 12
Plant-nomenclature, 72 ; notes, 5,

45, 214, 237, 276, 380; novelties

of 1905, 4, 27, 42

Plant Portraits : — Adenandra
fragrans, 133 ; Apples, Cox's
OraMge Pippin, 160 ; Der Britzer
Dauerappel, 207 ; Arachnanthe
annamensis, 152 ; Asparagus
Sprengeri, 25 ; Asystasia bella,
221 ; Atraphaxis lanceolata, 133 ;
Barkeria spectabilis, 164 ; Beau-
fortia sparsa, 133 ; Berberis Dar-
winii, 160 ; BougainvilUa glabra
var. Sanderiana, 160 ; Buddleia
variabilis var. magnifica, 360 ; Cal-
liopsis Volkensii, 216 ; Cattleya
Marie Henriette de Wavrin, 164 ;
C. triumphans var. Ch. Maron,
164 ; Ceropegia fusca, 152 ;
Cherry Frogmore Early, 221 ;
Cheiranthus alpinus, 221 ; Cinna-
momum ovalifolium, 133 ; Colchi-
cuni crociflorum, 25 ; Crataegus
Carrierei, 303 ; Cymbidium si-
nense, 164 ; Cynorchis compacta,
25 ; Cypripedium Alcibiades var.
raagniTca, 160 ; C. Boxaili var.
nieri;ins, 221; C. Fairrieanum,
164; C. "Lawrebel," 303; C.
tibeticum, 216 ; Epidendrum aro-
matic jm, 164; Epiphyllum deli-
catu.Ti, 160 ; Erica terminalis,
152 ; Eulophia nuda, 89 ; Euphor-
bia lophogona, 297 ; Genista dal-
matica, 297 ; Gerbera aurantiaca,
367; Gladiolus carmineus, 216;
G. primulinus, 367; Gonioscypha
eu^omoiles, 367 ; Hymenocallis
calathina, 133 ; Impatiens Holt-
/ii, 207 ; Incarvillea Delavayi,
303 ; Iris Sieheana, 89 ; Laelia De
Ge?.Uiaua, 164 ; L. Eugene Boul-
let, 164 ; La:lio-Cattleya Ernesti,
164 ; Ligustrum strongylophyl-
lum, 216; Lilium Brownii var.
leu.~intha, 360 ; L. Duchartrei,
297 ; Listrostachys hamata, 297 ;
Logan Berry, the, 207 ; Lonicera
pileata, 89 ; L. tragophylla, 152 ;
Lycaste Deppei, 164 ; Magnolia
hypoleuca, 367 ; Maxillaria prae-
stans, 404 : Meconopsis in-
tegrifolia, 160 ; Nepenthes phyl.
lamphora, 216 ; Nicandra viola-
cea, 303 ; Odontoglossum arden-
tissimum var. Theodora, 160 , O.
cordatum, 164 ; Oncidium grami-

nifolium 164; O. tigrinum splen-
didum, 360 ; Oxalis adenophylla,
25 ; Phalaenopsis gloriosa, 221 ;
Polygala apopetala, 152 ; Primula
Cockburniana, 297; Prnnus tri-
loba, 89 ; Raspberry de Billard,
360 ; Rehmannia angulata, 112,
160 ; Rhododendron Pink Pearl,
360, 404 ; R. Vaseyi, 367 ; Roses,
Bessie Brown, 207 ; Les Rosati,
404; Mad. Abel Chatenay, 112;
Van Houtte, 404 ; Saxifraga scar-
dica, 89 ; Spiraea van Houttei,
303 ; Stanhopea oculata, 164 ;
Trollius europoeus grandiflorus,
303 ; Wittmackia lingulata, 25

Plants distributed by the Royal
Horticultural Society, 218, 237,
251, 267; garden, of 1905, 218;
hardy, flowering at Christmas, in
North Wales, 14 ; in flower at
Rosehill, Falmouth, 78

Plants, mythical, 137; effect of
radium on, 11 ; under glass, cul-
ture of, 7, 22, 38, 54, 70, 86, 102,
118, 134, 1.50, 166, 182, 198, 214,
230, 246, 262, 278, 295, 310, 326,
313, 364, 384, 404, 421

Plants, New or Noteworthy: —

Abies Delavayi, 212 ; A. Far-
gesii, 212; Aloe laxiflora, 130;
Anthurium Forgeti, 161 ; Cory-
lopsis sinensis, 18, 220 ; Dendro-
bium Bronckarti, 380 ; D. Dartoi-
sianui-n, 380 ; D. Wilsoni, 185 ;
Eupitori'.im Purpusi, 274; E.I'.
var. monticola, 274 ; E. trapezoi-
deum, 274 ; Geranium platyan-
thum, 52; Larix Potanini, 17S;
Pleione yunnanensis, 115 ; Pleuro-
thallis Barbosina, 244 ; Picea
morindoides, 218 ; Primula cog-
nata, 35B ; P.-deflexa, 229; P.
Fortunei, 185 ; P. orbicularis,
209 ; Rodgersia sambucifolia,
115 ; Syringa pinnatifolia, 68 ;
Tritonia bracteata, 2 ; Tsuga
yunnanensis, 236 ; Viburnum Car-
lesii, 306 ; Yucca nitida, 154.

Plumiera lutea, 407

Plums, late dessert varieties of, 116

Poinsettias and Euphorbias as cut
flowjrs, 116

Poisonous compounds, sale of, 18.')

Polypodium fibre for Orchid cul-
ture, 304

Port Elizabeth Agricultural Show,
332

Portraits of botanists, 249, 367 ; the
4ate R. Dean's collection of, 105

Postcards, a floral series of, 266,
388

Potatos : disease of, 422 ; disease
of and Bordeaux mixture, 122 ;
haulm with tubers, 233 ; tubers,
variation in, 38 ; an exhibit, 89 ;
as nest eggs, 388 ; at Inveresk,
155 ; early, 19 ; for salad, 155 ;
immature .seed, 384 ; in Shrop-
shire and Staffordshire, 232 ;
manures for, 121, 170 ; new
varieties of, 5 ; species of, 129
(see Solanum)

Pots, garden, new, 121

Powell, D. C., presentation to, 240

Primrose, a monstrous, 194

Primula deorum flowering at Kew,
363; P. Greenwood Pim, 276,
297; orbicularis, 403

Propagating hardy plants, 260 ;
house, a new style of, 90

Propagator, the, 260, 308, 397

Protection of fruit blossoms in
spring time, 186, 313, 391

Pruning : fruit trees, 28 ; in sum-
mer, 377, 411 ; trees and shrubs,
226, 244

Prunus padus with rose-coloured
flowers, 202 ; P. Pissardi fruiting
in Scotland, 249, 284; P. triloba
and its pruning requirements, 238

Pseudotsuga Douglasi, a new pest
of, 57

Puccinia la Testui, a three-spcred
rust disease, 205

Pulle, Dr. A. [Enumeration of the
Vascular Plants known from
Surinam), 232

vi. The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906.

Pump, Ankers' patent pedal, 390
I'unjaub, horticulture in the, 26
Pyrus Niedzwetzkiana, 3SU ; P.
spectabilis, 283

Q

Queensland, sugar-growing in,

Radium, efiect of, on plants, 11

Railway rates and facilities, memo-
rial on, 75 ; reform, need for, 137

Rainfall in 190J, 40, 58

Ramie fibre, 268

Rats caught by bird-lime, 138

Recreation club at Messrs. Sutton's
nursery, 313

Refrigerating apparatus on board
ship, visit to, 42

Rehmannia angulata, 8, 411

Rendle, Dr. A. Barton, 47

Rhododendron : beds, plants for as-
sociating in, 46, 78, 91, 107, 124 ;
Gill's Triumph, 325 ; hybrids of
R. Griffithianum, 242 ; indicum
obtusum, 186 ; mundulum, 251,
284 ; parvifolium, 164 ; yunna-
nense, 39S ; prsecox for early
flowering under glass, 35 ; height
of, 172; at Kew, 306; at Leo-
nardslee, 155

Rhubarb, forcing, with ether, 58 ;
planting, 46

Ribes lacustre, 380

Rock-garden at Leonardslee, Sus-
sex, 148

Rome, notes from, 330 ; the
Borghese gardens, 370

Root crops, storing, 46

Rosary at Loft's Hall, Essex, 115

Rosary, work in the, 51, 76, 85, 130,
2^4, 322, 358, 398

Rose Aimee Vibert and other varie-
ties, 294 ; Contessa Lurani, 51 ;
culture under glass, 51 ; Hermann
Raue, 51; Marechal Niel, 322;
sawfly, the, 336 ; show fixtures
for 1906, 265; society, a Dutch,
76

Roses, a French list of, 407 ; reli-
able, 130 ; requirements of dur-
ing June, 358 ; during July, 398

Rosehill, Falmouth, 78

Rosmarinus officinalis prostratus,
381, 423

Royal Agricultural Society, report
of the botanist of the, 329

Royal Botanic Society's Gardens,
eco.nomic plants at, 14 ; monetary
gift to, 57

Royal Horticultural Society's com-
mittees, 121 ; distribution of
plants by, 218, 238, 251

Rubber Cultivation in Ceylon, 202 ;
Para, in Singapore, 138 ; the cul-
tivation of African, 337

Russian gardeners, 202

Rust diseases, three-spored, 205

S

Saccolabium bellinum, 419

Salad, Potatos as, 155

Salsafy, American, 90

Salvia splendens, the culture of,

149 ; grown in small pots, 5
Samshu (a spirit manufactured by

Chinese), 194

Sandringham Gardens, The Dell in,
184 ; the Queen's Wild Garden
at, 104

San Francisco, the results of earth-
quake at, 381, 389

Saponarias, garden species of, 237

Sarracenias, the, in the Gulf
States, 164

Saxifraga Boydii, the history of,
301, 333 ; S. Ferdinandi Coburgii,
165; S. juniperifolia, 315; S.
scardica, 165 ; some yellow-
flowered, 249, 283

Scarborough Flower Show, 408

Schizanthus at Cote House, 332

Schlich, Dr. (Manual of Forestry),
328; Prof. W. (appointment at
Oxford), 329

School gardening in Staffordshire,
89

School of gardening, a new, 73

Scientific Committee: — Abies
nobilis attacked by Chermes,
205 ; Alpinia officinarum, 125 ;
American Blight on Apple trees,
125 ; Anthuriura, a double-
spathed, 255 ; Apple, silver-leaf
in, 47 ; with ring-like splittings,
47, 78, 124; Ash, galls on, 124;
grubs in, 173; Auricula, rever-
sion in, 334 ; and inheritance of
characters, 269 ; Auricularia me-
senterica the Jew's-ear Fungus,
205 ; Azaleas, galls on, 334 ; Ba-
nanas, mealy bug on, 173 ; Beans
poisoning cattle, 78 ; Beetles on
Pine, 333 ; Birch, galls on, 124 ;
roots with excrescences, 47 ;
Bluebell, a pink, 334 ; Bomarea,
characters of, under-cultivation,
302 ; Botanical certificates, 269 ;
Broad Bean flowers malformed,
412 ; Calceolaria sporting, 255 ;
Ceanothus Fendleri, 302 ; Celery
woody and spotted, 125 ;
Chermes abietis, a pest of Coni-
fers, 205 ; Clematis stem cracked,
47, 78 ; Convolvulus leaves dis-
eased, 302 ; Crocus veluchensis,
125; Cypella Herberti, 302; De-
bregeasia velutina, 78 ; Deodars
dying, 302, 412 ; Deutzia scabra,
302 ; Elder, fungus on, 205 ; Elm
bark beetle, the, 174, 205 ; Euca-
lyptus, hardy, 174 ; Ferns with
tassel-like growths, 302 ; Ficus
Dryepondtiana, 255 ; Fritillaria,
species, 302 ; Fruits from New
South Wales, 47 ; Fungus on
Elder, 205; Galls on Ash, 124;
on Azaleas, 334 ; on Birch, 124 ;
on Bramble, 174 ; on Gooseberry,
334 ; Gardenia roots dying,
269, 302, 412; Gooseberry, galls
on, 334 ; Hasmanthus magnificus,
79; Holly leaves blistered, 78;
Hylurgus piniperda, the Pine
Beetle, 333 ; Iris Wainscot Moth,
the, 412 ; Irises diseased, 334,
412 ; Jew's-ear fungus, the,
205 ; Laurel, grubs in stem of,
124 ; Leucodendron, fruits of,
255 ; Lilium candidum seeding,
302 ; Logan-Berry, excrescences
on, 47 ; Massonia pustulata, 47 ;
Mealy bug on Bananas, 173 ;
Mendelian. laws of inheritance,
the, 205 ; Narcissus, variation in
flowers of, 174 ; with leafy
spathe, 269 ; Nitrifying bacteria,
the culture of, 174 ;Nonagria spar-
ganii, 412; Ochna multiflora
269 ; Oranges decaying, 174 ;
Orchids diseased, 125 ; Palm
leaves diseased, 205 ; Pel-
argonium diseased, 124, 174 ;
Pestalozzia phoenicis (fungoid
disease of Palms), 205 ; Photo-
graphs showing movements in
plants, 254 ; Phytomyza aqui-
folia, the Holly fly, 78; Pine-
apple with elongated bracts,
255; Pine beetle, the, 333;
Plants from Cambridge Botanic
Gardens, 334 ; Pleione yunnan-
ensis, 125 ; Primula sinensis mal-
formed, 174 ; Primula sport, a
205 ; Potato, exhibition of species

of, 125; failing to grow,
412; scab produced by a fun-
gus, 254 ; Rhizoctonia and the
Potato scab, 254 ; Rhododendron
arboreum, 269 ; Kichardia Elliot-
tiana malformed, 302; R. Reh-
manni, 334 ; Sanseviera Lau-
rentii, 255 ; Scolytus destructor,
the Elm bark beetle, 205; Soil,
uncongenial, 174 ; Solanum Com-
mersoni and its alleged sports,
333 ; Sweet Pea tendrils coloured,
302, 333 ; Tropeeolum hybrids,
302 ; Tropseolum with two spurs,
333 ; Tulipa dasystemon, 255 ;
Tulip disease, 412 ; with branched
inflorescence, 79 ; Uredo polypodii
(attacking Cystopteris fragilis),
333; Vines attacked by weevils,
124 ; Water, sulphuric acid in,
47 ; Wild flowers, destruction of,
269; Willow, scale on, 125
Scilla bifolia " Pinkerton," 204;
S. b. ruberrima, 165 ; S. sibirica
amoenula, 235
Scuticaria Steelii, 2
Seakale, disease of, 238 ; grown in

the open ground, 237
Seaweed, the manurial value of, 309
Seed beds, protecting, from birds,

204
Seed sowing and transplanting, 237
Seeds packed for transit abroad,
20, 46, 104, 164, 189, 205, 268,
275, 300
Seeds, the germination of, 329
Senecio Heritieri, 378 ; S. Petasites,

134, 301
Seraphyta multiflora, 2
Shirley, Hibberd, the late, 104
Shrewsbury flower show, 202
Shrubberies and their management,

1
Shrubs, flowering, in Devon and
Herts., 370 ; pruning of, 226,
244 ; deciduous, 38
Silver leaf in Laburnum, 332
Small holdings, 124, 152, 169, 232,

297, 367, 386
Smith, Thomas, of Newry, ap-
pointed V.M.H., 186
Snowdrop, a yellow, 165
Snowdrops in grass land, 136
Soapworts, the, 237

Soci ETIES : — Aberdeen Chrysanth.,
143 ; Agricultural Seed Trade As-
sociation, 375 ; Bath and District
Card., 143, 159; Beckenham
Hort.,80; Birmingham Botanical
and Horticultural, 412 ; Birming-
ham and Midland Counties
Gard., 79; Bournemouth Gard.,
79; Bristol and Dist. Gard.,
143 ; British Gardeners' -As-
sociation, 79, 89, 202, 282,
287, 329, 366, 414 ; (annual meet-
ing), 371; Brussels Floral, 206;
Brussels Hort., 206, 218, 287;
Cardiff Gard., 80, 143, 240 ; Car-
diff and County Hort., 112;
Chelmsford and District Gard.,
80, 143, 159, 240 ; Chester Paxton,
16, 80, 143, 159; Crawley and
Dist. Gard., 143 ; Cornwall Daffo.
dil and Spring Flower, 239 ; Cov-
entry Chrysanth. and Flor., 175;
Croydon and Dist. Gard., 79, 143 ;
318 ; Devon Daffodil and Spring
Flower, 255 ; Dublin Seed and
Nursery Employees', 369 ; Dum-
frieshire and Galloway Hort.,
239; Dutch Hort. and Bot., 223,
286, 375 ; Egham and Dist. Gard.,
16, 80, 143, 415; Glasgow Seed
and Nursery Trade Assistants',
47 ; Gloucestershire Root, Fruit,
and Grain, 414 ; Gloucester-
shire Rose, 206; Guildford
and Dist. Gard., 143; Hail-
storm Insurance Company, 249 ;
Hereford Fruit Growers and
Hort., 335; Hort. Club, 10, 30,
90, 191, 286, 387; (annual meet-
ing), 111 ; Hort. Science (Ameri-
can), 125, 387; Huntingdon Daf-
fodil and Spring Flower, 272;
Irish Gard. Benevolent, 79 ;

Leeds Professional Gardeners'
Benefit, 111 ; Linnean, 25, 58,
90, 122, 152, 201, 206, 286, 318,
345, 386, 395 ; Liverpool Hort.,
159; Loughborough Gard., 143;
Midland Daffodil, 232, 270 ; Man-
Chester and North of Eng. Orchid
30, 79, 143, 192, 223, 270, 287,

334, 387, 414, 426 ; Nat. Amateur
Gard., 239, 407 ;Nat. Auricula and
Primula (Midland), 271 ; (South-
ern!, 255, 269; Nat. Chrysanth.,
47, '72, 112, 143, 192, 206, 287;
(annual meeting), 93; Nat. Fruit
Growers' Federation, 175, 217,
318; Nat. Potato, 14, 104; Nat.
Rose, 90 ; Nat. Sweet Pea, 282 ;
Nat. Tulip, 297, 335 ; Nursery
and Seed Trade, 223; Pang-
bourne and Dist. Gard. 80 ; Ply-
mouth and District Branch of
Brit. Gard. Assoc, 16 ; Preston
and Dist. Gard., 159; Reading
and Dist. Gard., 32!?; Redhill,
Reigate, and Dist. Gard., 79, 143,
240, 334; Richmond Horticul-
tural, 426 ; Royal Arboricultural
(English), 281 ; Royal Botanic,
40, 153, 192, 269, 334, 394, 426;
Royal Caledonian Hort., 302 ;
Royal Cornwall Agri. Assoc. ,412;
Royal Hort., 8, 29, 47, 62, 72, 78,
90, 91, 104, 108, 121, 124, 138, 153,
156, 169, 173, 189, 201, 205, 221,
232, 252, 265, 284, 315, 370, 391,
411, 424; (Colonial exhibition),
216; (annual meeting), 108; an^
nual report), 91 ; (Temple Show),
348; Royal Meteorological), 143;
Royal Scottish Arboricultural,

335, 413; Scottish Hort., 105;
Selborne, 265, 329, Sevenoaks'
Gard., 142; SheflSeld Chrysanthe-
mum, 143 ; Shirley, MiUbrook,
and Freemantle Hort., 16 ; Shrop-
shire Hort., 175; Sociiite Fran-
<;aise d' Horticulture de Londres,
31 ; Societe Royale Linneenne et
de Flore, Brussels, 79, 174;
Southampton Royal Hort., 112;
Surveyors' Institution, 58, 89, 153,
184, 329; Torquay Dist. Gard.,
224; U. Hort. Benefit and Pro-
vident, 31, 138, 155, 256, 334;
(annual meeting), 174 ; Winter
Flowering Carnation, 329 ; York-
shire Gala, 413

Solanum Commersoni, 202, 298 ; S.
giganteum, 35; S. integrifolium,
S6

South Africa, notes from, 362

Southampton basket holding 51b.,
an uniform, 11

South Eastern Agricultural Col-
lege, Wye, 58, 297, 407, 422

South Lodge, Horsham, 98

Spring flowers in the south-west,
357 ; in the Western Hima-
layas, 321

Spring frosts, protecting plants
from injury by, 213

Spring in the garden, 225

Spruce, a new Himalayan, 132

Staffordshire and school garden-
ing, 89

St. Louis Exhibition, the late, offi-
cial report of, 139

Stock, East Lothian, 28

Stocks, proliferous, 249

Strawberry Bedford Champion, 391

Strawberries, forcing, 315 ; support-
ing the fruit trusses of, 267, 283,
301 ; injured by mice, 283, 301

Streptocarpi, the cultivation of, 5

Sugar-beet, culture of, in Essex,
137

Sugar-cane culture in the Barba-
dos, 11 ; in Queensland, 89

Sugar-canes, pedigree, 136 ; trials
of, in the Leeward Islands, 138

Sutherlandia frutescens, 380

Sutton's, Messrs., annual excur-
sion, 423

Swanley Horticultural College, 233

Sweden, protecting plants in spring
in, 213

Sweet Peas, earlj', in Ireland, 301

Syringa, the species of, 380

The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906. vil.

Tea and the Tea trade, lecture on,

394
Tecoma Brycei, 344 ; T. Smithii,

the culture of, 149, 186
Thames Embankment Gardens,

the, 423
Thatching, materials for, 389
The Grange, Southgate, Orchids at,

131
Thomas, Mr. L. E. (long service

of I, 25
Timber crops, the value of, 78, 91 ;

Willow, the price of, 124
Tobacco, a monograph on, 42
Tobago, note from, 3G2
Tomato prospects for 1906, 204 ;

Webb's Jewel, 105
Tomatos, the pruning and training

of, 170 ; Melons, and Mushrooms

as market crops, 244
Tool, the Little Gripper, 300
Transplanting and seed-sowing,

237
Tree-growth and climate, 181, 213;

p' anting davs, national, 220
Trees and Shrubs, 13, 38, 132, 226,

234, 242, 283, 325, 358, 380;

pruning of, 244 ; suitable for

waterside planting, 358
Trewidden, Penzance, 306
Tropics, commercial research in

the, 138
Tsuga yunnanensis, 236
Tulipa Fosteriana, 322

Tulips in East Princes Street Gar-
dens, Edinburgh, 360 ; late
flowering, at Kew, 378 ; yellow
Daiwin, 370

U

Udale, James (The Handy Book

on Pruning), 26
Urophlyctis alfalfs (attacking

Lucerne), 122

Vanda Amesiana, 70

Vaporising plant houses with hydro-
cyanic gas, 83, 124 (see also " Cy-
aniding. Hydrocyanic gas ")

Vases, garden, 328

Vegetable, a new, 90

Vegetables, culture of, 5, 19, 34,
105, 237, 242, 362, 384, 420; ex-
hibiting, observations on, 333,
370 ; three good, 362 ; illustra-
tions of, 57

Vegetation and climate, 389 ; of the
high Alps, 386

■N'eitch, James H. (Hortus Veikhii),
297

Vellozia retinervis growing in its
natural habitat, 362

Venetian Chicory, 34

Ventnor, mild season at, 282
Vesuvius, the eruption of, 313, 34j
Viburnum rh)tidophyllum, 418
Vilmorin Memorial, the, 45 ; trial

grounds, list of plants at the, 73
Vines, grey-rot disease of, 42 ;

grafting, 176; hybrid, 185; the

planting of, 78 ; warty disease of,

200
Vintage fruits, 241
Viola Blue Bell, 411 ; Mary Burnie,

306
Volcanic dust, 329

W

Wadds, Bailey, retirement of, 302

Wainsford, Lymington, 50

Water gardens, Mallett on, 291,

322, 359, 389, 399
W'atering and Mulching, 397
Weather at Rothamsted, 75 ; in co.

Kildare 155 ; in Cornwall, 28,

302
Westonbirt, Orchids at, 113
Wheat, periodicity in the yield of,

368
Willow timber for cricket bats, 46,

62, 140, 124
Wilson's, E. H., travels in China,

12, 27, 60, 101, 138, 165, 179, 258,

293, 331, 402
Wireworms checked by artificial

manures, 41

Wisley gardens ir.: April, 275;
Broccolis at, 141 ; plant distribu-
tion from, 218, 237, 251, 3!5

Woodhatch, Dendrobiums at, 163 ;
Masdevallias at, 14

Woodland walks and drives, beau.
tifying, 268

Wood, protecting, from white ants,

Worcestershire, gardening instruc.

tion in, 312
Worms in flower-pots, trapping,

o91
Wych Elm, a large, 152
Wye Agricultural College, 58, 297,

407, 422
Wvthes, Geo. [The Book of Raret

Vegetables), 324

Xanthorrh.«;a Preissii, 228

Young, Thomas, presentation to,
408

Zygopetalum-brachvpetalum, 99

SUPPLEMENTARY ILLUSTRATIONS.

(May 5) ; B.-C. Mrs. Francis

Arctotis aspera (May 19)
Brasso-Cattleya " The Baron '

Welleslev (June 80)
Chrysanthemums, a prize exhibit of (February 10)
Dalkeith Palace, a scroll flower border at (January 20)
Debkegeasia velutina (April 14)

Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, the Palm House and pond at (April 28)
Iris Garden at Kew, the (June 9 and 16)
Kalanchoe Dyeri (May 12)

Kew Palace as seen from the Broad Walk, Kew (March 17)
Lissochilus Horsfallii as grown by Right Hon. Lord Rothschild,

Tring Park (March 31)
LocKiNGE Park, Wantage, Flower Beds and Borders at (February 3)
Macodes javanica, an ornamental-leaved Orchid (April 7)

MiLTONiA vE.xiLLARiA, VAR. E.MPRESs AuGUSTA VICTORIA (February 24)

Narcissi and Anemones in the Royal Gardens, Kew (April 21)

Petrea volubilis (January 13)

Pldmiera lutea (June 23)

Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, views in the (January 27)

Sandringham. view in the "dell" at (March 24); in Her Majesty's

Wild Garden at (February 17)
Scroll Flower-Border in the Gardens at Dalkeith Palac«

(January 20)
Snowdrops Flowering at Kew (March 3)
Tecoma Brycei (June 2)

Vases and Topiary Work as Garden Embellishme^nts (May 26)
Wych Elm in the Grounds at Sharpham House. Devon, a largb

(March 10)

^For List of General Illustrations in the text see next page.)

■Viu'. The Gardeners' Chronicle,]

INDEX.

[June 30, 1906.

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Abies Delavayi, 212 ; A. Fargesii,

.from Central and Western

China, 213; A. squamata, 299
Adventitious buds on Kniphofia, 81
African natives cutting rubber, 337
Anemone Pulsatilla, 307
Angraecum Kotschyi, 379
Anthurium Scherzerianum with

contorted spadix, 267
Anthurium with double spathe,

255
Apple Allington Pippin and its

parents, 3; A. Star of Devon,

359
Apple-tree, cyaniding an, in the

open garden, 220
Arachnanthe annamensis, 290
Arctotis aspera var. arborescens,

314
Ash tree, a young, as it appears

when properly pruned, 227
Australian grass-tree flowering in

the succulent house at Kevi', 228
Azara Gilliesii, 77

B

Beckford Hall, Gloucestershire,
400

Beech trunk v;ith buried inscrip-
tion, 249

Bee-hives, placing wax foundation
in, 39

Birkinshaw, T. W., portrait of,
7

Buddleia asiatica, 106

Cairns, John, portrait of the late,
206

Calceolaria Kewensis X and its
two parents, 390

Campanula carpatica " White
Star," 409 ; C. x Mayi, 410

Carnation Britannia, 195 ; C.
"fellidtt's Queen, 180 ; C. Nelson
Fisher, 181

Cassiope hypnoides, a rare hardy
plant, 22*3

Cattleya Bowringiana flowering at
Westonbirt, 114 ; C. Schroederae
alba, 300

Citrus japonica, an elliptic-fruited
variety of, 69

Cook, W. A., portrait of, 7

Coreopsis Cirantii, from Uganda,
162

Corylopsis sinensis, 18

Covent Garden Market, retailing
bedding plants at, 363

Cromwell, B., portrait of, 7

Croquet lawn, diagram of a, 256

Cup, challenge, the F.ckford, 10

Cyaniding an Apple tree in the
open garden, 220 ; plant houses,
a patent machine for, 203 ; a
simple apparatus for, 220

Cypripedium Alcibiades magnifi-
cura, 52 ; C. Mrs. Francis Welles-
lev, 5 ; C. tessellatum rubens,
19 ; C. tibeticum, 347

Cystopteris montana with ever-
green proliferous fronds, 229

D.\LKETTH Palace, views in the

gardens at, 33, 34
Davidia involucrata, a flowering

spray of, 346

Dendromecon rigidum, 341 ; D.

Wiganianum, Gatton Park variety,

219
Deutzia crenata variety Watereri,

340

EcKFOED Challenge Cup, the, 10

Edinburgh public gardens. Tulips
in, 360

Edwards's safety cyaniding ma-
chine, 203

Elm branches used in the con-
struction of a pergola, rooting
of, 35, 36

Eranthis hyemalis, a double-
flowered form of, 139

Euphorbia Wulfenii, 331

Eutypella prunastri (disease of
nursery stock), 55

Evelyn, John, 133

Fer>7 showing unusual means of

propagation, 229
Foliage plants exhibited at the

Temple Flower Show, 372

Gali,, the Currant or Grape, of

Oak, 356
Gibson, J., portrait of, 6
Gooseberry caterpillar, the, 320
Gontv disease of the Silver Firs,

the, 144
Grafting, crown, rind, and cleft,

199
Grape-growing in the open at

Droitwich, Worcestershire, 20

H

Hemsley, Oliver Tietjens, the late,

32
Hippeastrum, an interesting

hybrid, 275; H. Madder Rose,

345
Hyacinthus lineatus syn. Belle-

valia lycaonica, 210
Hylurgus piniperda, the Pine

Beetle, 48

Idf.sia polycarpa, a fruiting spray

of, 13
Inscription buried in a Beech tree,

249
Iris bracteata, 401

K

Keechdve, Comte de, portrait of

the late, 184
Kew Gardens, the permanent staff

at, 9
Kniphofia, adventitious buds on

a, 81 ; K. Macowani, 83 ; K. Nel-

soni, 82; K. Northiffi, 100; K.

paucittora, 101

L.ELIA X Nemesis, Tring Park

variety, 131
Larix Potanini, a new Chinese

Larch, 178

Leonardslee, portion of the rock

garden at, 148
Leucodendron argenteum, the

fruits of, 254
Lissochilus Horsfallii, a flower of,

201
Lockinge Park, Wantage, views in

the gardens, 65, 66, 67, 76
Loft's Hall, Essex, the Rosary at,

115, 116
Lye, James, the late, and one of his

prize groups of Fuchsia, 94
Lymington, Hants, view in the gar-
den at, 50

M

Magnolia stellata, a flowering spray
of, 261 ; flowering in the Tem-
perate House, Kew, 26!)

Mahon, John, portrait of the late,
256

Marshall, William, portrait of, 159

Massonia pustulata, 44

Montanoa bipinnatifida flowering
at Bordighera, 123

N

Narcissus cyclamineus growing in
a pot, 291 ; N. Emperor flowering
on the lawn at South Lodge, 99 ;
N. Pearl of Kent, 293

Nectarines diseased through gum-
ming, 320

Nicotiana Sanderas in the Royal ,
Gardens, Kew, 61

Norman, George, portrait of the
late, 142

Nursery stock disease (Ilutypella
prunastri), 55

Oak gall, the Currant or Grape,
356

Oakley Court, near Windsor, 382,
383'

Odontoglossum crispum " G. W.
Law-Schofield," 339 ; O. c. Leo-
nard Perfect, 348, 349; O. c.
Queen of the Earth, 309; O.
Fowlerianum, 163 ; O. that sold
for 1,150 guineas, 197

Opuntia Engelmani in the rock
garden at Leonardslee, 148

Orange, the small-fruited Japan-
ese, 59

Orchids at the Temple Flower
Show, 373

Parsnip root hollowed by voles, a,

144
Petrea volubilis, 25
Pettigrew, Hugh A., portrait of,

6
Phalaenopsis Luddeman n i a n a

flowering from an old flower-
scape, 259
Photographs showing the gradual

development of growth in plants,

266
Picea complanata (new), 147;

P. montigena (new), 146 ; P.

morindoides (new), branch and

foliage of, 218 ; P. m., a tree of,

at Castelwellan, 274
Pine Beetle, the, 48
Plan of a Rose garden, 115
Potato, the Fir-Cone, 129; the
parent species of garden, 129

Primrose, Chinese, with calyx,
corolla, and ovary malformed,
194 ; Greenwood I'im, a variety
with frilled petals, 276

Primula cograta, 358; P. orbicu-
laris, 403

Pruning large trees, right and
wro.ig methods of, 227, 244, 245,
246

Pump, Ankers' patent pedal, 391

Pyrus spectabilis flowering -in Kew
Gardens, 283

Ramularia Narcissi, a disease of

Narcissi, 277
Rhododendron Gomer Waterer,

393; R. Griffithianum, 243; R.

parvifolium, 164, 165; R. yun-

nanense, 399
Rose garden at Loft's Hall, Essex,

115, 116
Roses, a table decoration of, 424 ;

exhibited at the Temple Show,

374

Saccolabiu.m bellinum, 419

Saxifraga apiculata, syn. luteo-
purpurea, 250 ; S, Boydii, a good
specimen of, 250 ; S. longifolia
at Leonardslee, 149 ; at Geneva,
150

Smith, Thomas, V.M.IL, portrait
of, 186

Solanum tuberosum and other
species, 129

South Lodge, views of the resi-
dence and grounds at, 98, 99

Table decorated with Roses, a,

424
Temple Flower Show, the groups
. that won the Veitchian Cup at

the, 372, 373
Tool, the "Little Gripper," 300
Tsuga yunnanensis, the Chinese-

iron-wood tree, 236
Tulipa Fosteriana, a new species

from Bokhara, 323
Tulips, a bed of, 360

Veli.ozia retinervis in its natural

habitat, 362
Vase, a Venetian, in the gardens

at Downside, S27
Viburnum rhytidophyllum, 418
Vilmorin memorial, the, 45
Viola Mary Burnie, 306
Vitis Henryana, foliage of, 354

W

Weir, Harrison, the late, 31
\Vhite, W. H., portrait of, 6
Winter Aconite, a double-flowered

form of, 139
Wright, S. T., portrait of, 348

Xantiiorrh.ea Preissii flowering at
Kew, 228

Yucca nitida, 153 ; Y. Whipplei, in-
florescence and floral parts of,
154

January 6, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

THE

^ arb en er s ' €\} xmxxdt

No. 993.— SATURDAY, January 6, J 906.

CONTENTS.

Apple blossom, frost re-
sisting

Apples, the cross fertili-
zation of

Armstrong College,

Newcastle-on-Tyne ...

Bees, colour-sense in .^

Books, notices of^
Horticultural Direc-
tory

The Forester

Publications received

Brussels Botanic Garden

Burbidge, F.W., the late

Calanthe Veitchii, a
sport of

Canker in Apple-trees...

China, leaves from my
note-book

Cocoa-nut Palms, bud
rot in

Cypripedium x Thalia
Mrs. Francis Wellesley

Eckford memorial cup...

Elm branches falling
from trees

Fig-trees out-of-doors,
protecting

Flowers in season

Forestry in Belgium

Fruit Register ...

Fungoid diseases and the
questioaof legislation

Hardy plants in North
Wales

Iris cretensis „

Iris stylosa .-

Judges, boycotting

Kew notes

London markets, the ...

Masdevallias at Wood-
hatch Lodge

5
10

11

14

8

10,11

13

Narcissus tazetta, colour

variation in ...
National Potato Society's

exhibition

Obituary —

Sims, John Dillwyn ...

Weir, Harrison
Orchid notes and
gleanings —

Cypripedium x Syd-
neyanum

Scuticaria Steelii ._

Seraphyta multiflora
Plant notes—

The Streptocatpus .„
Plant novelties of 1905...
Plants, new or note-
worthy^

Tritonia bracteata ...
Potatos, new varieties of
Radium, efifect of, on

plants

Rehraannia angulata ...
Royal Botanic Gardens,

Regent's Park

Salvia splendens in small

pots

Shrubberies and their

management

Sugar-cane experiments
Trees and shrubs —

Idesia polycarpa
Week's work, the

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ...

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...
Wood, protecting, from

ants

Year, the present

- 13

6
7
7

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Apples, sections of, showing characters of parents and

their hybrid

Birkinshaw, T W., portrait of

Cook, W. A., portrait of

Cromwell, B., portrait of

Cup, the Henry Eckford Memorial

Cypripedium, Mrs. Francis Wellesley

Gibson, J., portrait of „

Idesia polycarpa, a fruiting spray of

Kew Gardens, the permanent staff at

Pettigrew, Hugh A., portrait of -

White, W. H., portrait of

SHRUBBERIES AND THEIR
V MANAGEMENT.

NEXT to the contour of the ground it is
the trees and shrubs of a garden and
their arrangement that give to it its
broad effects. If the trees and shrubs
are not themselves the chief objects of
interest there, they must, in all but the smallest
areas, form at least the setting of whatever
else the garden may contain. Whatever the
picture may be, it is the arboreal vegetation
that makes the framing. Therefore it is strange
that in so many gardens one should see such
striking evidence of the absence of any special
thought or care for the trees and shrubs they
contain.

How seldom one sees that there has been
any endeavour to obtain the most suitable
species for the place or the most beautiful and
interesting subjects; in other words, any at-
tempt to draw upon that wealth of material
which modem travel, enterprise, and skill
have brought to us. Who does not know
that depressing thing — the ordinary " mixed
shrubbery " — a crowded mass of shrubs,
with here and there perhaps a tree, where
all the weaker species have disappeared, and
in which the stronger are left to fight each
other for light and space ? The result is that
what remains is a survival perhaps of the
strongest, but certainly not the most beautiful.
If it were not that we see .them any day of
one's life in the making in the gardens and
public parks of this countrj', we might hope

that this type of shrubbery was a relic of less
enlightened days.

It is easy to trace its origin and development.
A student of human nature would probably
say the " mixed shrubbery " we rail against is
only one more evidence of the evils of pro-
crastination. At the time of planting the
material is naturally small, and in the hope of
producing an immediate effect the plants are
put in rather closely together. This, of course,
is perfectly right, but too often the work stops
there. Plants do not cry aloud, and they
grow while we are sleeping. When the time
comes that they are closing up and ought to
be given more space, the work is passed by in
favour of something seemingly more needful,
but probably really less important. For when
once the proper season has passed by it
becomes increasingly difficult to treat the
shrubbery satisfactorily. The plants become
drawn and their sides thin, and any interfer-
ence with them means, at the least, a tempo-
rary unsightliness. The remedy for all this is
to be found in the adoption of a definite plan
at the commencement and its rigorous carrying
out afterwards. And here a few words may
be devoted to the

ARRANGEMENT AND PLANTING

of trees and shrubs. When either a tree or a
shrub is to be grown as an isolated specimen
with plenty of space for its development, as
on lawns or in parks, it has simply to be con-
sidered in its present and ultimate relationship
to the general features of the landscape. Its
natural increase in size and height does not
involve transplanting and re-arrangement. It
is, however, quite otherwise with the cultivated
shrubbery, which, either large or small, forms
so important a part of every garden. Such
shrubberies are used to mask the boundaries
of gardens and to make secondary boundaries
within the garden itself; they are useful in
forming dividing lines between plots where
special cultures are carried on ; as back-
grounds to borders of herbaceous plants, as
shelterbelts, and so on. The point is that
wherever it is, or whatever its special object
may be, it should not be merely a block of
monotonous greenery serving no other purpose
than to shut out a view. It should be, in
itself, as much an object of beauty and inter-
est as any other part of the garden.

The initial mistake that is so often made in
the planting of shrubberies is the indiscrimin-
ate mixing up of the material emplo)'ed. The
value of what we know as grouping — that is
the bringing together of several individuals of
one kind, or even of two or more kinds that
enhance each other's attractions — is not gener-
ally appreciated.

Without attempting a psychological explan-
ation of the fact, it seems that the eye derives
the greatest pleasure when a tree or shrub
(but more especially a shrub) is seen either
perfectly isolated or when it helps to compose
a group made up, chiefly or whoUy, of several
specimens of the same species. This is even
more the case with beds cut out on lawns
than it is of continuous shrubberies. Here
the indiscriminate mixture looks its worst, and
here more than anywhere else should an
arrangement of shrubs, be it of one or more
species, strike a clear note. For large gardens
;ind spacious areas I prefer, m^'self, the group-
ing together of individuals of the same kind ;
in smaller areas a combination of two or more
may be desirable or necessary. But, to

borrow a musical illustration, one should never
strike all the notes of the octave at once — it
should be either a single note or a chord.
Take, as an example, what is one of the noblest
pieces of shrub-grouping in any public garden
in the British Isles — the Rhododendron Dell
at Kew. No doubt this owes much of its
beauty to the contour of the ground, but one
cannot conceive any mixed arrangement of
shrubs, however beautiful they might individu-
ally be, so impressive and effective as this
massing of Rhododendrons, only relieved here
and there by the introduction of a few dis-
similar things.

In the case of shrubs of medium and small
size and, indeed, of almost all the smaller
species we cultivate, it is essential, if their
beauty and individuality are to be revealed to
the full, that this system of grouping should be
adopted. The size of such groups must be
regulated in consideration of several cir-
cumstances. The chief of these is the dimen-
sions attained by the plant itself. The smaller
it is, the smaller, of course, should be the
group. Then one has to consider the extent
of the shrubbery or garden of which it forms
a part, and the other things with which it is in
immediate association. In large gardens and
in large shrubberies broad, massive effects can
be obtained that would be out of place where
the general scheme is on smaller lines. In
grouping it is necessary to observe the strictest
sense of proportion.

The massing of shrubs has one advantage
that should be adverted to. It simphfies
the management and reduces the labour of
keeping the shrubbery in order. Presuming
that the plants were first set closely enough
together to pretty nearly cover the ground and
produce an immediate effect, w-hen the time
comes — as it soon will — that more space is
necessary for each specimen, it can easily be
afforded by a judicious thinning out. The
trouble and expense of an entire replanting
are avoided. If, however, either through
neglect or deliberate choice the shrubs are
allowed to remain as originally planted the
crowding does little harm. Each group be-
comes, as it were, one plant, _^and the general
effect is not spoilt as so often it is where
the shrubbery degenerates into a featureless
jumble.

A Few Examples

may be given of effective combinations of
shrubs. Where a group consists of but one
species no problems of course arise, but where
two or more are used some thought must be
given as to colour, diversity of habit, rates of
growth, and time of flowering.

The double- flowered Gorse planted in a
mass, with a few Tamarix tetrandra sprinkled
among them, makes a pleasing group. The
plants flower at the same time, and the graceful
feathery branches of the Tamarisk laden with
lilac-colouredflowers rising out of the solid mass
of yellow Gorse form an effective contrast.

For yellow-flowered shrubs the common
Mahonia (Berberis aquifolium) is a very use-
ful associate. Forsythia suspensa, for instance,
which is charming anywhere, has its attrac-
tiveness enhanced if it rises out of a mass of
this dark purplish-leaved shrub. The same
may be said of the early-flowering species of
H amamelis. Naked of fohage themselves, at the
flowering time the)' need either a background
or an undergrowth such as is aft'orded by a
dark evergreen. Jasminum nudiflorum as-

THE GArxDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, 1906.

sociated with the Mahonia will often make a
very pretty winter picture. Indeed, a thin
arrangement of deciduous flowering shrubs
rising out of a dwarf evergreen mass is always
pleasing.

A very striking feature in a garden may be
made by associating together in a broad
nass a collection of shrubs having varie-
gated and coloured leaves. Here variety is
desirable. A mass of Pissard's Plum alone,
with its dark purple foliage, is heavy and un-
attractive, but associated with white varie-
gated shrubs like Cornus mas variegata and
Acer Negundo variegatum, or with yellow
leaved ones like Cornus Spiithii and Acer
Negundo odessanum, and the beauty of all
is brought out and enhanced.

The True Mixed Shrubbery.

There is, of course, another type of shrub-
bery which also has its own distinct attractions.
This is where each individual plant has to
stand on its own merits and where no attempt
is made to produce broad or imposing effects
by associating together a number of similar
plants. This plan has, perforce, to be adopted
■where the space available is restricted and
where the taste of the planter leads him to
prefer variety rather than beauty merely.
Such an arrangement appeals with special
force to the connoisseur, and is the one which
makes the small private garden most interest-
ing. But it is unquestionable that such a
shrubbery is not so easily managed as the
one where the grouping system is adopted.
It gets out of hand quicker and demands more
persistent attention. Each plant, in order
that it may show its true character and beauty,
must attain to a certain minimum size and
needs a certain space for its development
to that size. But both the plant and its neigh-
bours keep on growing, and it consequently
becomes necessary to keep them within certain
limits by pruning, or else to provide room for
their enlargement by an occasional thinning and
re-arrangement. Such a shrubbery ought never
to be allowed to get crowded, otherwise
the individuality of each plant is lost. A
"loose" arrangement should be maintained.
It is because shrubberies made on this
plan are so often neglected, and the coarse
growing plants so often allowed to crush
out the weaker species, that I advocate
the grouping sj'stem wherever possible. For
public parks it is decidedly the best, as it is
also for large private gardens or, indeed,
wherever sufficient space is available for
planting on broad lines.

It would be absurd to suggest that any one
with a small garden should make what little
shrubbery they may have consist of masses of
a few things merely. But I am inclined to
think that even in a small garden, if the planter
is using for his shrubbery ten or a dozen of
(say) Berberis stenophylla, or Forsythia, or
Mezereon, or whate\-er it may be, he wall do
better to make a group of each sort than to
sprinkle them over the whole length of his
border. It is, indeed, for new shrubberies
that the grouping system is so desirable. In
old, well-managed ones, planted in the mixed
style, each plant is attaining, or has attained,
its full size, and produces somewhat the same
effect as a group of younger ones. Here, at
any rate, dignity is not lacking. But nothing
can look more feeble than the common " mixed "
shrubbery in the earlv years of its being.
W.J. Bean.

TREATMENT OF CANKER IN

APPLE TREES.

Where the trees are growing in a heavy, clayey
sub-soil, canker is most destructive, but during
the past few years we have been trying to keep
it under, and have to some degree succeeded.
"When planting an orchard here, some few years
ago. it was found necessary to dig the holes out
3 feet deep and 8 feet wide, and place a 2\ inch
drain pipe to run into the main drain in the middle

of the rows that were to be planted, afterwards
filling to within 12 inches deep of rubble, clinkers,
&c., before using turf. The surface soil was kept
12 inches above the level, and this allowed a few
inches for settling. Afterwards, when having to
lift the trees, I found this mound of earth a great
advantage, as the roots were better to lift and
prune, but the proceeding was a very expensive
one. Unfortunately several of the varieties proved
even then to be useless on this soil. For exposed
positions trees with 3 feet stems are amply tall
enough. When planting in such soils a free use of
lime should be made, and those varieties planted
that will to some extent resist the canker. Among
the few that will do this are Cox's Orange Pippin,
American Mother, Lemon Pippin, Irish Peach,
Beauty of Bath, Lady Sudeley, Worcester Pear-
main, and Rosemary Russet. The 6rst to be
attacked among these is Cox's Orange Pippin.
Among culinary varieties Lord Grosvenor, Lord
Derby, and The Queen are good ones. The
Queen never fails to crop, the trees are clean, they
grow into a good shape, and yield good fruits.
Bismarck, Bramley's Seedling, Warner's Kng,
The Sandringham. Kentish Fillbasket, and Newton
Wonder succeed well on the espalier, as also
does Bramley's Seedling.

Peasgood's Nonsuch, Sdrling Castle, Baumann's
Red Reinette, and Yorkshire Beauty have all suc-
ceeded here. Yorkshire Beauty as a standard
never fails to crop well, and the fruits will keep
in good condition for a long period. Any
trees that are infected with canker should,
after replanting, be kept quite 6 or 8 inches above
the level of the ground. If the stem of a stan-
dard tree is diseased burn it, as it would never be
of further use. When replanting, work in plenty
of wood ashes, road scrapings, lime rubble, and
a little slacked lime amongst the roots, as these
materials will keep the roots warm during the
winter. Before the leaves fall in the autumn
syringe them with Bentley's Alkali, and again in
the spring before the buds expand. When using
this preparation before the leaves fall it should
be applied at half-strength only, A free use of
fresh lime is one of the best preventives, and if
applied as a top-dressing in autumn and spring, the
rains will wash it in. I have also used for
dressing the ground the following mixture :
35 lbs. super-phosphate of lime, 21 lbs. nitrate-
potash, 28 lbs. nitrate-soda, and 28 lbs. sulphate-
lime. These were all mixed together and applied
at the rate of a quarter of a pound to the square
yard, but a little more may be given if de-
sired. The trees are now gradually growing out
of the canker, but it cannot be too often repeated
that for heavy soils it is necessary to make an
extremely careful selection of varieties, and, if
possible, they should be obtained from a stock that
has been growing on similar soil. Pruning should
be done in the summer, for winter pruning aggra-
vates the disease, and, if possible, let the trees have
a clear run of growth. Any branches that may
be overcrowding the centre of the tree may be
removed in October before the leaves fall, and the
wounds afterwards dressed with whale oil or
Stockholm tar. A. B. WadJs, Paddockhurst, North
Sussex.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

TRITONIA BRACTEATA (SP. NOV.)
The "hatchet-bearing" section of this genus
includes four species (securigera, Nelsoni, tlava,
and bracteata), and forms an interesting group,
structurally distinct from the rest of the Tritonias.
This structural difference consists in three horny
and probably gland-bearing processes, shaped like
the head of a hatchet, which issue from the three
lower segments of the corolla at the orifice of the
tubular portion of the flower. No one has given
any conclusive explanation of the functions sub-
served by these processes. Some have suggested
that the narrowing of the "throat " of the tfower
would insure insect fertilisation ; others that the

processes were three effete stamens and that the
ancestral forms had been true hexandrian plants.
At any rate the structure of the flower in this
section is sufficiently distinct to support the con-
tention of a new genus.

T. bracteata was sent to me two years ago by
Mr. Layton, from the mountains above Greytown,
S. Africa, and flowered for the first time in my
bulb-flue this September. It is an inconspicuous
little plant, with spathes almost as large as its
leaves. It is near T. securigera (Redoute, 53.
Bot. Mag. 383) in the colour of the flowers, but
differs therefrom in the flowers being only half
the size, whereas the leaves are twice as large.
The spathe-valves are also longer and acuminate,
the scape is more flexuose, branching and flori-
ferous, and the horny processes more developed.
The hooded upper segment connects with T. Nel-
soni ; which latter sp. has narrow, linear leaves.
Description.

Scape, a foot high, flexuose, very hard, much
branched, bearing thirty to forty scentless flowers,
of a tawny-red colour, opening, singly or in pairs,
and fading before others expand. Bracts very large
and foliose, the lower ones 4 inches long. Flowers
irregular, i inch span, the three inner segments
narrower (over ^ inch wide) and recurved, the three
outer wider (J inch) and not recurved. The upper
segment is slightly wider still, and is incurved to
form a hood protecting the stigma and anthers.
The three lower segments marked with a yellow
basal mark.

Filaments, all erectand contiguous. Styleshorter
than stamens. The inflorescence is irregular (all the
flowers facing in the one direction) and appears in
autumn on the new autumnal growth (in England,
but probably spring-flowering in South Africa) ; this
leaf-growth consists, at first, of three leaves of
irregularshapeeach under I foot in length, by^ inch
in maximum width. The narrower leaf-growths,
appearing with the flowering stem, are mostly, if
not entirely, bracts.

Several of the Maricas are noticeable for similar
foliose bracts. A. Wursley, Isleisorth, 1905.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

SCUTICARIA STEELII.

A PHOTOGRAPH of a very fine specimen of this
beautiful and rare South American Orchid is sent
by Mr. J. Simon, gr. to W. W. Mann, Esq.,
Ravenswood, Bexley, Kent. The plant is growing
on a raft, its slender, whip-like, terete leaves, 3 feet
in length, falling perpendicularly. Clustered at
the base of the leaves are 18 flowers, each about
4 inches across. All the segments are broad ; the
sepals and petals of a yellow colour, handsomely
marked with chocolate purple ; the lip is cream-
white marked with purple. It is a very effecdve
species and is not difficult to grow if placed on a
block or raft and suspended in an orchid house
having an atmosphere of an intermediate tem-
perature.

SERAPHYTA MULTIFLORA,

A STRIKING instance of the beauty to which a
" botanical " orchid, which is an insignificant
subject as a small or ill cultivated specimen, may
attain when mature and well-grown is afforded
in a fine inflorescence of Seraphyta multiflora sent
by Mr. H. Haddon, gr.to J. Neale, Esq.,Lynwood,
Penarth. The inflorescence has seven branches,
reaching about 18 inches from the extreme points,
the branches being again divided, and the whole
bearing about 200 flowers. The individual flowers
are only about half an inch across, and of a pale
greenish colour, but borne in such numbers at
the tops of the reed-like growths that they make a
very pretty display. The plant carries several
spikes. Flowers of Liparis longipes and Cama-
ridium ochroleucum were also received from Mr.
H. Haddon.

CYPRIPEDIUM X SIDNEYANUM.

A NEW and pretty hybrid, said to have been
raised between C. insigne, Harefield Hall variety,

Janvary 6, 1C06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

andC. X LeeanumMassereelsianum was recently in
flower in the Orchid Nurseries of Mr. H. A. Tracy
at Army and Park Road, Twickenham. The large,
flat dorsal sepal is pure white with a small apple-
green base. The lower half is finely spotted with
purple, the spotting changing to dark rose colour
towards the upper half. The petals are honey-
yellow veined with purple, and bearing some
blackish spots on the under side. The labellum
is tinged with purplish red. It approaches the
favourite C. x Leeanum but is a pleasing break
from it, and also very different from other hybrids
obtained from forms of C. insigne and C. Lee-
auium. /. O'BrieK.

conical, while in Cox's Orange Pippin it is
small and funnel-shaped, and in Allington Pip-
pin it partakes of the form of both in being V-
shaped, and is larger than that of Cox's Orange
Pippin. Again, the sepals of King of the Pip-
pins are reflexed, forming a broad, open eye,
while those of Cox's Orange Pippin are inflexed,
pointing towards the centre and closing up the
eye, but in Allington Pippin Ihey point up-
wards, forming a partly open eye. E. H.
BowcrSy Glasnevin.

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

CROSS FERTILISATION OF
APPLES.

The cross fertilisation of Apples forms an in-
teresting study. In the ordinary course of
events, it is a number of years before the seed-
ling bears fruit, but a quicker way of attaining

The Forester : A Practical Treatise on British

Forestry and Arboriculture for Land-owners,

Land-agents and Foresters. By John Nisbet,

D.CEc.

Fifty-eight years ago the first edition of The

Forester appeared. It was a small (crown

octavo) volume of 215 pages, and from this

c.

Cox Or-*n P

Fig. I. — SECTIONS of apple allington pippin and its parents.

(See text.)

this object is by grafting a scion, taken from
the seedling when strong enough — which it
should be in about two years from the date of
sowing the seed — then, under favourable con-
ditions, the graft should bear fruit in about
three years, or five years from the time the seed
was sown. An interesting hybrid is Allington
Pippin, the result of King of the Pippins X
Cox's Orange Pippin (the latter being the seed
parent).

The seedling approaches Cox's Orange Pippin
in flavour, and in shape it is midway between
the two parents, being more conical than Cox's
Orange Pippin and not so " oblong " or "square-
shouldered " as King of the Pippins. A curi-
ous point is that it succeeds in districts where
neither of its parents will flourish. It will be
seen on reference to the diagram (Fig. 1)
(which was drawn from ripened fruits) that the
calyx tube of King of the Pippins is broad and

small beginning has been evolved the largest and
most complete text-book on British forestry
which has yet appeared. The Forester passed
through six editions, and in the last of these,
published in 1S92, in two volumes, an endeavour
was made by the Editor to " engraft the modern
Continental science of Sylviculture upon the
old British stock of Arboriculture." In this,
however, Dr. Nisbet was not very successful,
and now Dr. Brown's work has given place to
another which, though based on the sixth edition
of The Forester, is, to all intents and purposes,
a new work, and one which, in the words of its
author, is "intended to serve as, a text-book
dealing chiefly with British Forestry and Ar-
boriculture (two really separate branches of
Rural Economy, which have usually been treated
as synonymous in Britain), and with the reason-

* Wm. Blackwood & Sons. Edinburgh, 1903, Two vols.
Price 42s. net.

ablo possibilities there are of improving the
exi.sting condition of our woodlands, and of
planting waste land for the growth of timber on
business principles, with a fair prospect of suc-
cess." The work consists of six parts, dealing
respectively with introductory matters, the
British silva, sylviculture, the protection of
woodlands, the management and valuation of
woodlands, and the utilisation of woodland pro-
duce. The book is well illustrated and pro-
vided with an ample index.

As to the subject-matter of the book,
it must be said that, as regards certain of its
aspects. Dr. Nisbet has not approached the
question with which he has so ably dealt in a
very optimistic spirit. He is well aware of the
difficulties with which economic forestry is be-
set, and he is thoroughly alive to the drawbacks
to it which have to be overcome in this country
as compared with what obtains in some Conti-
nental countries to which we have been rightly
asked to turn our attention for guidance in
economic sylviculture. On the question of
afforestation of waste lands in Britain, for ex-
ample. Dr. Nisbet does not hold out such
tempting inducements as have been put forward
(sometimes with rather more zeal than discre-
tion, perhaps) by some writers on forestry. For
example, in reference to the extent to which
waste lands in Britain may be planted, Dr.
Nisbet says (Vol. I., p. 94) :— " Our waste lands
undoubtedly offer a wide field for planting ; but
it is impossible to say in any general way (as
has been stated) that ' land yielding a smaller
net rental than 8s. an acre ' for agriculture or
pasture will now pay better under timber. The
reason why any such statement must be mis-
leading is that favourable local opportunity for
disposing of wood at a profit is a main factor
entirely overlooked, or, at any rate, presumed,
in the actuarial calculations — and, unfortu-
nately the favourable local market is often want-
ing"; and in estimating the proportion of the
16,710,788 acres classed as waste land in Britain
which may be planted " with a reasonable
chance of direct monetary profit," Dr. Nisbet
gives it as his opinion that at present this is
limited to about 3,340,000 acres, about one-
fifth of the whole, and "about one and one-
tenth times the existing area now classed as
'woods and plantations.'" This may seem a
pessimistic view to take of the afforestation of
our waste lands, as compared with the very
fine prospects which have been held out in
this direction by others; but when it is taken
into account that, as Dr. Nisbet puts it, " if
a great national scheme of planting were to
be adopted with a view to supply part of our
future requirements in timber, the cost of plant-
ing these 3,342,000 acres of waste land would
probably . . . mean a total actual outlay
of about ;,f 20,000,000 (disregarding compound in-
terest) " the magnitude of the undertaking as-
sumes more gigantic proportions than appear
on the first blush ; and over and above this
there is the further drawback that, as Dr.
Nisbet points out (p. 95!, "a large proportion
of the waste lands are above the 1,000 feet
contour line, and in the open, wind-swept, un-
sheltered condition of the country very little
of this higher land can possibly be planted' at
present with any fair chance of profit ; while
there is also a large percentage of peat-bogs
where no tin:iber crops will thrive until tha bog
is cut away so far as to allow the young trees
to get their roots down into t'ne mineral soil."
In the introductory part, which contains an
extremely interesting historical sketch of for-
estry and arboriculture in Britain, there is much
matter which will amply repay careful perusal ;
but it is in the third part, which treats of
sylviculture, that the practical forester will
probably find most food for reflection, and

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

[January 6, l90G.

perhaps the most interesting chapters to him
w-U be those deahng with the planting and
tending of woodlands. In respect to " the best
distance for planting," Dr. Nisbet has much
to say, and we may here give a brief quotation
or two to show to what conclusions he has
bsen led regarding this important matter.
" The probable profit," he says (Vol. I., p. 407).
" of any plantation depends mainly on the local
market for thinnings and for mature timber.
One cannot plant simply the number of trees
that will form the mature crop. Of the far
larger number originally planted, only a small
proportion of the fittest survive to the end,
and the others have to be thinned out from
time to time. If, therefore, the soil and situa-
tion do not of themselves necessitate close
planting (as, say, at 3i or 3I feet apart in
squares or triangles on poor, exposed land),
the market for thinnings may well be con-
sidered before one decides on planting at 4 by
4 feet, or at 4J, 4J, 4|, or even 5 feet apart.
If there is a good local market for thinnings,
close planting will be profitable ; if not, then
in place of being profitable it must cause a
double loss, because while costing more, it will
lead to the landowner being forced, sooner
than otherwise necessary, to incur expense in
thinning the young plantations without being
able to dispose of the small poles with advant-
age"; and, again, he says (p. 40S) : — "Taking
the three main factors of cost, probable profit,
and soil productivity into consideration, it will
be found that for ordinary planting with trans-
plants from I to 3 feet high, 4 by 4 feet in
squares (2,722 plants per acre), is, on the average,
usually about the best distance for planting in
Britain on medium classes of land for the given
kind of tree." And in arriving at these conclu-
sions. Dr. Nisbet is backed by Continental
opinion, for it seems that " investigations at
the Saxon Forest School (Tharandt) have shown
that, on the whole, planting at 4J by 4J feet
apart is the most profitable distance — and this
even in a country where early thinnings are
always saleable " ; while Lovey (Germany)
gives 4 by 4 feet as what may be called the
" mean average," and Boppe and Tolyet
(France) recommend " for all kinds of trees a
distance of 5 feet between plants, in lines 6-^
feet apart — or at least 5 feet in squares." It
will thus be seen that the planting distances
given by Brown were not so far amiss accord-
ing to this, the latest, view ; but where Brown
did err, and err most egregiously, was in the
after-treatment vifhich he prescribed for the
crops.

The volumes are dedicated to the Royal
Scottish Arboricultural Society " in commemo-
ration of the fiftieth anniversary of its founda-
tion," and the work will, no doubt, form a
most reliable and up-to-date source of informa-
tion on all that pertains to correct sylviculture.
Principles must be linked to a practice adapted
to the climatic and economic conditions of this
country, and these are in many respects dis-
tinct from those of Continental countries from
which in recent years we have learned much,
but which it is possible to imitate too closely. R,

NOVELTIES OF 1905.

Orchids. — As usual, in recent years, the pro-
ductions of the hybridist are strongly in
evidence. In Odontoglossums some specially
noteworthy novelties have been brought for-
ward, such as the handsome O. X Smithii, of
Messrs. Chaelesworth 6c Co. ; O. x Vuyl-
stekeae, of M. Chas. Vuvisteke ; O. x Thcmp-
sonianum, of \V. Thompson, Esq. ; and the
generic hybrid Odontoma x Laircsseje, of M.
Lairesse. Others standing well above the
general run of novelties are the superb Cypri-

pedium X Thalia Mrs. Francis Wellesley, from
Francis Wellesley, Esq. ; C. x Leeanum, J.
GuRNEY Fowler ; C. x The Baron, and Cat-
tleya Schroderse The Baron, of Messrs. Sander
& Sons.

Sir Trevor L.\wrexce, Bart., Burford (gr.
Mr. VV. H. White), the owner of the oldest and
most varied collection, has the longest list of
plants honoured at the Royal Horticultural
Society, many of them " botanical " Orchids
known to science but rare in gardens. The
florally beautiful include the pretty white
Schomburgkia chionodora, and its purple
variety Kimballiana, Odontoglossum ramosissi-
mum Burford variety, Coelogyne Lawrenceana,
Brasso-Cattleya x nivalis, and B.-C. Mrs.
J. Leemann ; Epi-Lcelia x Sylvia, E.-L. x
vitelbrosa, and Epidendrum X radico-vitelli-
num ; and the botanically interesting, but still
pretty, Bulbophyllum Reinwardtii, B. radiatura,
Vanda Watsoni, Stanhopea connata, Cycnoches
peruvianum, Grobya galeata, Dendrobium
aemulum, D. ciliatum annamense, D. striatum,
D. crumenatum, Epidendrum tricolor, E. ptero-
carpum, Serapoyta multiflora, and others.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Egham
(gr. Mr. Ballantinel from his grand collection,
has exhibited several fine groups of rare Orchids
during the year. Among the exhibits selected
for awards were Miltonia vexillaria The Dell
variety, the largest known Miltonia ; Odonto-
glossum liliiiorura, a unique specimen ; O. X
Lucasianum Heatonense, the handsome O. x
Wilckeauum Schroderianum, and O. X Adrianae
aureum.

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), is well in the front rank of
modern Orchidists. At the first show of the
year he secured awards for the two fine Cypri-
pediums, viz., C. X Memoria JeminghamiEe, and
C. X Westfieldiense ; and at the last for that
perfection of C. Fairrieanum crosses C. x
Thalia Mrs. Francis Wellesley ; the interval
bringing to his credit among others, Cypri-
pedium x Godefroyje leucochilum citrinum, C.
X Germain Opoix, C. x Thalia giganteum,
Cattleya x Peetersii Mrs. Francis Wellesley, C.
Schilleriana Westfield variety, C. X Maroni
Westfield variety, Laelia x lona nigrescens, and
Lffilio-Cattleya x Charlesworthii magnifica.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), great in Odontoglos-
sums and Cypripediums, gained honours with
the beautiful Odontoglossum x ardentissimum
Doris, O. X a. Sibyl, O. crispum Smeeanum,
O. c. Prince Leopold, O. x mirificum, Calan-
the X Chapmani, Cypripedium x San-actaeus,
C. X San-acderae, C. x Dom Carlos superbum,
C. X villoso-Rothschildianum, Cattleya x
Kienastiaua, Oakwood variety Dendrobium x
Venus, Cookson's variety ; and Polystachya
Haroldiana, a pretty white species sent by Mr.
Harold Cookson from Lake Tanganylika.

Major G. L. Holford, CLE., C.V.O.,
Westonbirt (gr. Mr. Alexander), scores with a
very varied and beautiful series, many of them
raised at Westonbirt, and all finely grown. They
include Laelio-Cattleya x Berthe Fournier,
Westonbirt variety ; L.-C. x Clive, Westonbirt
variety ; L.-C. x crispo-Hardyana, Cattleya X
Iris magnifica, C. x Mrs. Pitt magnifica,
Sophro-Lffilia x teta Orpetiana, Lycaste Skin-
neri atro-sanguinea, Dendrobium fimbriatum,
Westonbirt variety ; Cypripedium x Chas.
Rickman magnificum, and C. X Alcibiades, the
last-named being shown in Major Holford's
gold medal group on January 3, 1905, in which
were many fine specimens which secured the
Lindley medal for the grower.

Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr.
Mr. W. P. Bound), who has one of the very
best-grown collections, showed well during the
year, his best being the charming L^lio-Cattleya

X Epicasta, Gatton Park variety ; and Miltonia
Ivegnelli, Gatton Park variety; while among
hybrids raised at Gatton the pretty orange-
scarlet Epidendrum x Boundii is an almost per-
petual flowering and useful plant.

G. F. Moore, Esq., Chardwar, Bourton-on-
the-Water (gr. Mr. Page), has secured awards
for Cypripedium x G. F'. Moore, C. X Act^^us
Chardwarense, C. X Actaeus F. H. Cann, Den-
drobium Phalasnopsis, Chardwar variety, of a
bright magenta-rose colour ; D. p. Miss Louisa
Deane, a pretty light variety ; and the delicately
tinted Lselio-Cattleya X Chardwarensis.

J. Bradshaw, Esq., Southgate (gr. Mr. G. G.
Whitelegge), has for his best of the year the
very remarkable Cymbidium rhodocheilum, for
which he secured a first-class certificate on May
10 ; Cattleya Schroderae Robin, and the giant
Cattleya labiata Hercules.

F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery,
Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), who secured the
gold medal for a magnificent group at the last
show of the year, secured awards for fine
varieties of C3rpripedium x aureum, C. x
Lawrebel, and Oncidium crispum, all dis-
tinguished as The Shrubbery varieties, and
very handsome and distinct.

Two superb novelties came from the rare col-
lection of Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare
Lawn, East Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), viz.,
the fine Odontoglossum x Wiganianum (Wilcke-
anum X Rolfeae), and the large and perfectly-
shaped pure white Lycaste Skinneri alba mag-
nifica.

De B. Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks
(gr. Mr. Stables), showed the beautiful Odonto-
glossum X Hallio-crispum Theodora, the clear
yellow O. Lindleyanum aureum, and Zygo-
pc-talum X Crawshayanum.

J. GuRNEY Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. Davis), e.xhibited the large
and finely coloured Cypripedium x Daisy Bar-
clay, and the elegant Cymbidium x ^Maggie
Fowler.

Elijah ashworth, Esq., Harefield Hall,
Wilraslow (gr. Mr. Holbrook), presented the
rose-purple and white Zygopetalum x Ballii,
and the rare Oncidium corynephorum.

Mrs. Haywood, Woodhatch, Reigate (gr. Mr.
C. J. Salter), supplied Cypripedium x Hay
woodianum, Dendrobium X Haywoodias, and
Miltonia vexillaria radiata magnifica.

H. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill
(gr. Mr. Thurgood), sent Odontoglossum cris-
pum Britain's Queen, and Cattleya x Pittiae.

J. Leeman, Esq., Heatcn, Mersey, furnished
Odontoglossum crispum Louis L. Sander, one
of the handsomest blotched forms ; O. c.
aureum, and O. c. Titus.

H. S. Goodson, Esq., Fairlawn, Putney (gr.
Mr. G. E. Day), showed Laalio-Cattleya X
I larry Goodson, and Cypripedium Godefroyae,
( loodson's variety.

R. G. Thwaites, Esq., W. M. Annleton, Esq.,
Drewett O. Drewett, Esq., R. Briggs Bury,
I'^sq., and others have contributed good things,
the pretty Disa pulchra and its finer Tring Park
variety, and Mormodes badium, being sent by
the Right Honble. Lord Rothschild (gr. Mr.
A. Dye) ; some curious and pretty botanical
species by the Honble. Walter Rothschild,
M.P. ; and the white Brasso-Cattleya x Digby-
ano-SchroderjE var. Tankervilliaj, the pretty Cy-
pripedium X Lord Ossulston. and the fine
Vanda Sanderiana, Chilli.ighara variety, from
the Right Honble. the Earl of Tankerville
(gr. Mr. Hunter).

F. W. MoORE, Esq., Royal Botanic Gardens,
Glasnevin, has kept the botanical interest in
Orchids frequently supplied from the rich store
in the Dublin Gardens, in which he takes such
pride. Dendrobium triflorum, and D. cymbi-
dioides, sent by him, served to settle the con-
fusion between the names of those species ; and
Aerides Ortgiesianum was an interesting plant.
(To be continued.)

Januaey 6, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

CYPRIPEDIUM X THALIA, "MRS.

FRANCIS WELLESLEY."

This grand hybrid, the result of a cross made
between C. insigne and C. Baron Schroder, was
exhibited by Francis Wellesley, Esq., West-
field, Woking (gr. Mr. Hopkins), at the meeting
of the Royal Horticultural Society, held on
December ig, when the Orchid Committee re-
commended it the award of a First-class Certificate.
It is a flower of the highest perfection, being well
balanced, of perfect shape, beautiful in outline,
and pleasing m colour. The large posterior sepal
is almost circular m shape, and quite flat, the
colour being white, with a small shining green
base, and rich and relatively evenly disposed
purple markings that extend almost to the margin.
The petals are honey-yellow in colour, but tinged
and veined with purple brown, and with a fev/

,f>

ing a batch of summer-struck cuttings and flow-
ering them in 6-inch pots.

Cuttings may be taken in July or early in
August from plants that were rooted in the pre-
ceding spring. The cuttings should be inserted
either singly in " thumbs " or around the edge
of a larger pot, shifting them subsequently into
5-inch and finally into 6-in-;h pots. It is im-
portant that the plants be allowed the maxi-
mum amount of light, an ideal spot on which
to place them being a shelf in a moderately
warm, airy house. Allow the plants ordinary
treatment in the matters of soil, feeding, etc.,
and take care to keep them free from red-
spider. Tliey will begin to produce flowers at
the end of November, and will look bright con.
siderably past Christmas. The variety grandi-
flora, bearing large, strong, flowering spikes, is
suitable for this method of growing F. T. S.

Fig. 2. — CYPRIPEDIUM MRS. FRANCIS WELLESLEY.
(See text.)

darker markings on the lower half nearer the
centre of the flower. The tip is tinged with red-
brown, and the staminode is yellow.

PLANT NOTES.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

SALVIA SPLENDENS IN SMALL POTS.

It may not be generally known how useful
plants of the above-named Salvia are at this
time of the year for brightening the conserva-
tory. The main batch of these plants, grown in
large pots, will have now flowered, and these
may, with advantage, be supplemented by grow-

THE STREPTOCARPUS.

The Streptocarpus is a useful greenhouse
plant, and is also very effective when used for
the decoration of the dinner table; especially in
conjunction with Dendrobium Phalaenopsis.

The introduction of Streptocarpus Dunnii
from the Transvaal to Kew in 1886 ted to vari-
out crosses, which have been followed by most
valuable results. S. Dunnii develops but one
leaf, which is very large, being sometimes as
much as 3 feet in length. The flowers are pro-

duced on crowded, erect panicles, which are
developed from the base of the leaf. This
species was crossed w-ith S. Rexii, the lattei
having numerous small leaves, the result being
the hybrid named S. Kewensis. It has also
been crossed with S. parviflorus, a white-flow-
ered species of similar habit to S. Rexii, and
from this cross was produced S. Watsoni. These
various hybrids were again intercrossed with
each other and with various other species, the
ultimate result being the production of a race
showing distinct " breaks " and improvements.

The cultivation of Streptocarpi presents no
diSiculties, and once they become established
they grow with great freedom. Although peren-
nials, the best results are obtained when they
are treated as annuals or as bi-ennials, for
which purpose a fresh stock should be raised
annually from seeds sown during February.

Good plants will, by this means, be obtained
by the following August, and these will flower
continuously through the autumn and winter.

These plants succeed admirably when planted
in beds or on rockeries under glass, and thrive
in shaded positions where many plants would
fail for want of light. Streptocarpi prefer a
compost which consists of equal parts of loam
and leaf soil, together with one-eighth part of
sand. When the plants are a year old they
should be allowed 5-inch pots, and these will
be found quite large enough for their furthei
requirements. They will commence to flower
about the beginning of May, and will furnish
a succession of bloom until late in the autumn.
During the summer months, when the plants
are in flower, soot-water may be given theia
with advantage. The plants should be partially
dried off and allowed a rest of several weeks'
duration during the winter.

Streptocarpi are liable to the attack of mealy-
bug, which usually appears on the under side
of the leaves. The usual methods for eradicat-
ing this pest should be employed. /. Gardner,
Aldenham House Gardens, Elsiree.

VEGETABLES.

NEW VARIETIES OF POTATOS.

There must exist among cultivators of Potatos-
many who are at a great loss in selecting from the
novelties enumerated in lists, and shown at exhi-
bitions, those that shall be grown in a particular
garden. Varieties differ so much in appearance,
flavour and texture, that nothing short of an
authoritative list dealing with the behaviour of
varieties in different soils and localities, and more
especially their ability to resist disease, their form,
texture, cropping and cooking capabilities, wouldbe
sufficient. I read recently in a trade list a number
of testimonials supplied by market-growers, gar-
deners, nurserymen and others concerning the
merits of a certain new variety whose name it is
not necessary for me to give. The writers made
mention of all its good points as to cropping,
power of resisting disease, shape, weight of crop
&c., but one only had a word to say about its
cooking quality. Potatos being primarily grown
for human consumption, of what significance are
its various good points if the quality of a tuber
when cooked be not good ? This and its flavour
should be the supreme tests. In this instance
the writer describes it as being "good."

Varieties vary greatly according to soil, climate,
and the sort of cultivation pursued, and there are
so many of them found in trade-lists nowadays
as to make an authoritative list a prime necessity.
Until such a help to purchasers is forthcoming,
buyers should make small tests in their own
gardens and fields, and thus ascertain if the varieties
selected come up to their expectations in the
more essential points. We are much indebted to
the raisers of new varieties, but we need to have
the results of their labours summarised, and.
inferiorvarietiesconsigned tea "black list." P.M.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, 1906

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Cypripediiiiiis which flower in winter. — Up to within
the last few years, mid-winter has always been
considered a dull season for the production of
Orchid flowers, but, thanks to the sliiU and per-
severance of
many enthu-
siastic hybri-
dists, we are
now, at this
particular
season, able
to enjoy an
abundance
of flowers
suitable for
almost any
deco r a t i V e
require-
ments.
These re-
marks are
applicable
chiefly to
the cooler
or interme-
diate grow-
ing Cypripe-
diums such
as were to
be seen at the last show of the Royal Horticultural
Society. It is impossible to enumerate all the
■species, or the multitude of hybrids, but among
■them the following stand out conspicuously : —
•C. insigne and its varieties Sanderae, Harefield
Hall and Aberdeen, C. Leeanum giganteum and
■C. L. Clinkaberryanum, C. Euryades, C. Beek-
manni, C. Actasus Langleyense, C. Thalia, C.
Alcibiades, C. aureum, C. Sallieri Hyeanum, &c.
Considering how easy it is to cultivate this section
of Cypripediums, and how invaluable the flowers
are at the present time, lasting as they do in good
condition for weeks together, even when separated
from the plants, they should be grown in quantity,
and by everyone who is an admirer of beautiful
flowers. As regards the lasting qualities of C.
insigne, a correspondent in the Gardeners' Chronicle
in 1 842 , p. 253 , stated ; — " On the first of December
I placed eight plants in the drawing-room ; there
they revelled in the greatest luxuriance for three
successive months, and, when taken out in March,
were as fresh and vigorous as the day they were
put in." The best time for repotting, or dividing
up large specimens to increase the stock of any
particular variety, is at the end of the season of
flowering, but unless the compost has become
sour or decayed, or a larger pot is needed, annual
repotting is not necessary. Strong healthy plants
that have become pot-bound may be placed into
pots two inches more in diameter than those they
aregrowingin. The pots used should be thoroughly
cleansed and well drained, and be secured by
a layer of rough sphagnum-moss. A compost
consisting of lumps of peat, good fibrous loam,
and chopped sphagnum-moss in equal parts, mixed
with moderate quantities of broken crocks and
coarse silver sand, will grow to perfection any of
the above varieties, and others of the same cate-
gory. In repotting the plants, do not raise them
above the rim of the pot, but keep the compost
■ just below it, so as to make the process of watering
more easy. Stand the plants in a moist, shady
■part of the intermediate house, and keep them
■moderately moist until each plant has become
well rooted into the new soil, after which time
water must be freely afforded them. It sometimes
happens that for want of water, fresh compost or
more root room many Cypripediums are seen in
poor condition. C. Spicerianum.C. Charlesworthii,
■C. Arthurianum, and C. Fairrieanum may also be
repotted now ; the first-named species grows better
when raised a little above the rim of the pot, and
should be afforded more drainage material and
less compost than is advisable for the others.

Temperatures. — The atmospheric temperatures of
the various divisions at night during this month
should be regulated as follow : — East India house
■60° to 65", Cattlej'a or intermediate house 55° to
60°, Mexican about 55°, and the cool or Odonto-
glossum house 45° to 50°. A few degrees lower
during exceptionally cold nights is beneficial when
the atmosphere is somewhat drier than usual,
owing to the unusual amount of fire-heat that is

necessary. In the daytime the higher numbers
should be maintained by fire-heat, but it matters
little how much the atmospheric temperature may
rise by reason of sunshme, provided there is suffi-
cient air and moisture to balance the extra heat.
Almost all tropical Orchids can be grown more or
less well in the various divisions mentioned, but
where a large number of some particular class has
to be grown if is wise to give them a structure to
themselves. Thus in some gardens there will be
found, besides those mentioned, separate houses
for Phalsnopsis, Deudrobiums, Cypripediums,
Masdevallias, &c.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigkew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

In writing this Calendar for 1906, I intend not
merely to indicate the weekly routine work
necessary in the Flower Garden, but as tar as
possible to introduce notes on some of the most

interesting
and useful
plants and
shrubs suit-
a b 1 e for
Flower Gar-
den decora-
tion. At the
same time I
will offer
suggestions
in colour
combinations
and other
simple ar-
rangements
in beds and
flower bor-
ders when-
e V e r the
occasion
offers itself.
Seasonable
advice shall
be given from
time to time on the many different phases of
flower gardening, whether it be the wild garden,
the rock garden, the water, or wall garden —
mentioning appropriate subiects for each
without exactly confining myself to describing
definite work relative to these for each week.
Being employed in an establishment situated
under favourable climatic conditions, I may at
times be induced to descant on flowering shrubs
and tender climbers that may not everywhere
be suitable to outside culture. If so, I shall
qualify such remarks, that no one may be led
into error and meet with disappointment.

The Formal Garden. — Although at the present
moment there is not much actual work in main-
tenance other than keeping them clean and tidy,
the arrangements of the flower beds of the formal
garden for next summer's display must neces-
sarily be e.xercising the minds of every thought-
ful gardener. In some instances the beds are
now filled with bulDs and other spring flowering
plants, so that nothing at present, if desired,
could be done in the way of intended altera-
tions ; but where there is no spring gardening
practised, the beds, if not already prepared for
the summer bedding, could with advantage be
dug and altered at the present time. For the
successful management of the formal garden it
is most essential that a record of each year's
bedding arrangements be carefully kept to avoid
making repetitions, except at long intervals —
unless especially desired by those most interested
in the garden. It is quite an easy matter, if
forethought and consideration are exercised, to
alter annually the arrangement of the plants,
and sometimes even to alter the disposition and
shape of the beds, where the designs are not those
of old-established French or Dutch gardens. By
this means novelty and freshness are im-
parted to each year's display, and monotony,
which detracts so much from the bedding
system, is avoided. If plans for the summer
bedding have not yet been determined upon, no
time should be lost before this is done, as stocks
of Pelargoniums and other plants will soon have
to be potted up, and before commencing this
work it is convenient to know the exact numbers
of the different varieties required for the several
purposes, otherwise much labour will be wasted,
and confusion the consequent result. Insuffi-

cient stock of any variety must be noted, and
steps taken at once to remedy the deficiency by
propagation. In propagating and preparing
plants for bedding, always allow a margin of
10 per cent, for mishaps. In places where,
owing to the caprice of the proprietor or other
circumstances, the parterre is changed two or
three times during a season, enormous surplus
quantities of everything must be provided.

Shapes of Beds. — In making new beds and
designs, or in altering the shape of old ones, it
is advisable to make them as simple as possible.
Intricate designs, be they do%'e-tailed, chain,
ribbon, or star-like in formation, may look
pretty enough on paper, but when "laid out"
always appeal to one as being decidedly " ginger-
bread " in their conception. They entail more
labour in their formation and maintenarice than
plain rectangular, oval, or oblong beds. Besides
these considerations, simple designs lend them-
selves more easily to tasteful arrangement in
planting, which, after all, is the chief con-
sideration. No matter how pretty the actual
shape of the design, it is a failure if its con-
struction tends to interfere with effective plant-
ing. In planning the different arrangements for
the summer bedding, much will depend upon
the taste and ingenuity of the gardener, but sim-
plicity of arrangement and the artistic har-
monising of colours should certainly be impor-
tant features. Next week I will cite a few
examples which occur to me of some good
simple summer bedding arrangements.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck .\bbey, Notts.

General Arrangements. — With the advent of the
New Year a general scheme of arrangements
should be drawn up, embodying the work in the
kitchen garden for the whole season, and including

any altera-
tions likely
to be made
during that
time. A
complete
plan should
also be
made so
that the
work of ar-
ranging the
v a r i o u s
crops may
be facili-
tated and
that it will
not be
necessary at
the last mo-
men t to
plant the
crops in a
h a p h a zard
way.
Seed ordering — This is a matter of considerable
difficulty to a beginner, or to a man having charge
of a garden for the first time, until he exactly
knows the requirements of the place. In ordering
seeds beware of glowing advertisements of new
varieties, but select those that are well known for
their cropping qualities and good flavour, and of
these there are plenty to choose from. The novel-
ties of first-class firms are for the most part reli-
able, and no harm may be done in trying a few of
them. A mistake often made is in ordering a small
quantity of many varieties in a general way, when
a greater quantity of fewer and more reliable sorts
sown in succession would give greater satisfaction.
Preparing the ground. — 7 he present winter so far
has been very suitable for getting on with the
work of digging and trenching, there having been
an absence of severe frost. Advantage of this
condition should be made full use of as long as it
lasts, and the greater surface area that is thus
exposed to tne influence of the weather the better
it will be for the crops.

Cabbages. — This crop promises well, having
grown uninterruptedly. Care must now be given
to protect the stems from frost by drawing the
soil around them, first of all deeply hoeing between
the lines to loosen the soil. In the advent of
severe frosts a few Spruce boughs put in here and
there will give much shelter in exposed gardens.
Broccoli. — As fast as the heads become lit fot

January d, 1900]

THE GARDEXERS' CHRONICLE.

use lift the plants and place them in a cold frame
where they can be easUy protected. A strict watch
must be made daily for these heads turning in, for
if they are exposed afterwards they may be soon
ruined by rain, or by morning frosts.

Brussels Sprouts. — All decaying leaves should be
cleared away from the stems, as these would
affect the sprouts, and particularly the flavour of
them when cooked. Avoid cutting the tops of the
plants until all the Sprouts have been gathered.

Onions. — Where Onions of extra large size are
required the present is the best time for sowing
the seeds. They should be sown in boxes in a
fairly rich soil which has been passed through
a ^-inch sieve. Place the boxes in an atmospheric
temperature of 55*^, and if the seeds are in a fresh
condition they will germinate in about 10 days.
The best variety is Ailsa Craig, which, forpractical
purposes, is synonymous with Cranston's Excelsior,
there being but little difference between them.
Neither of the types is fixed, although some
advance has been made in that direction.

Leeks. — These may be sown in the manner re-
commended for Onions, for Leeks require a long
season of growth before giving the best results.
The remarks as to Onions and Leeks, however,
apply only if specimens are required lor exhibition
or other special purpose. The general crops need
not be sown for two or three months yet.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., LeoDardsIee, Sussex.

The Planting of Fruit Trees.— li this work
has not been completed and the weather is wet,
any trees that are on hand should be heeled in
to await suitable weather for planting. But if

some dry,
friable soil
can be mixed
with the sta-
ple, planting
may be pro-
ceeded with
if desired,
though at a
disadvantage.
When plant-
ing any kind
of stone fruit,
some lime
rubble or
mortar plas-
ter should be
mixed freely
with the soil,
or, failing
this, some
fresh lime
may be used
to advantage.
More especi-
ally should this be done wnen only a little lime is
already present in the soil. Young trees that are
planted merely as supernumaries may have a slate
or two put under them, so that the roots will be
prevented from striking downwards ; they will
then suffer the less from check when they have
to be moved to other positions. In preparing
the ground for Peach and Nectarine trees it is
sometimes necessary to drain the soil by arti-
ficial means, especially if the subsoil is of an
unsuitable nature for promoting drainage. When
such is the case, the soil under the positions
where the trees are to be planted should be
thrown out to a depth of 3 feet 6 inches, after-
wards laying bricks in the bottom, placing them
on edge. Another 4 or 5 inches deep of smaller
drainage material, such as broken bricks, etc.,
should be placed over the bricks and be covered
with some freshly cut tun-es, putting them
grass-side downwards, which will keep the fine
soil from getting down into the drainage. Over
the turves may be placed the compost in which
the trees are to be planted, which should con-
sist mainly of some good fibrous loam that has
been stacked for a considerable time. This
should be well chopped to pieces and mixed
with lime rubble and crushed bones or bone
meal, at the rate of 501b. to six barrowfuls of
soil. If sufficient loam cannot be obtained, use
one half of loam and the other half soil, in
order that the trees may m.ake as good a start
as possible. In planting, cut off with a sharp
knife all mutilated roots, and any extra thick
roots may also be cut away, bearing in mind

that it is the fibrous roots which are most
valuable.

Orchard Trees. — In many orchards there is
overcrowding of the trees, coupled with defi-
cient drainage. Many old orchards could be
improved at this season by thinning the trees
and draining the soil. A commencement in
thinning should be made by cutting away all the
wood in a particular tree that is not exposed
to the sunshine^ next, by cutting away all dead
branches ; and finally by thinning out the head
of the tree. When draining the land, plant
young trees in every instance where there is an
old, unproductive specimen. Select only good
and reliable varieties for this purpose, and
plant each variety in a colony together, so that
when gathering the fruit, the work may be done
quickly. A rough plan should be made giving
the positions of each variety.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to F. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
The Cleansing of Plant Houses.— Viiih the
advent of the New Year, we as gardeners are
reminded that the time has arrived when atten-
tion should be eiven to putting our plant-houses

in order,
and no time
should be
lost in doing
this. The
woodwork
of the inte-
rior should
be well
washed with
soft soap
and hot
water, and
the glass
will need
washing in-
side and out-
side that it
may be
made capa-
ble of ad-
mitting all
the light
possible to

the plants. Remove and wash the sparer
gravel from the stages, as it will often
be found that worms are secluded therein,
and these would establish themselves in the
newly potted plants. Every effort should be
made that in these and other particulars the
plant-houses are thoroughly cleansed before the
work of potting the plants is commenced.

The Potting Shed. — ^iluch may be done in
getting materials in order to facilitate the
work when the time arrives for potting. The
sizing of crocks and charcoal, the chopping up
of peat, and the drj'ing of cow manure may be
done at the present time, and the pot rack should
be given attention, and be well stored with clean
pots in their various sizes.

Insect Pests. — The present time affords an
opportunity to thoroughly clean such plants as
Ixias, Codiasums (Crotons), Gardenias, and
other hard wooded stove or greenhouse plants
which have not been syringed during the winter
months. Red spider, thrips, or mealy bug, etc.,
may thus have established themselves. A very
simple, safe and efficacious wash, and one which
is constantly used here is prepared as follows :
— One wineglass of paraffin and three ounces of
soft soap to three gallons of soft water. The
soap and paraffin should be blended together to
the consistency of cream before applying the
warm water. The liquid is applied through a
coarse spray syringe. No time should be lost in
attending to this matter, as insects increase to
an alarming extent when the temperatures rise.

Gloxinias. — A batch of the most mature bulbs
should be selected and placed in a moist atmo-
sphere of the temperature of 60° to 70°. When
they have started into growth shake them out of
the old soil and re-pot them in a rnixture of good
fibrous loam — peat and leaf mould in equal
parts — adding a little dried cow manure and
sand. Place the plants well up to the light.

Plants for Early Forcing. — Azaleas, of the
mollis section, Spiraeas, Deutzias, Lilac, Rhodo-
dendron Mdme. Wagner, early Tulips, Narcis-
sus, Freesias, Lily of Valley, etc., will now
readily respond to forcing if a temperature of

60" to 65" be employed. The Rhododendron
mentioned is an excellent variety for gentle
forcing, and the flow'ers are of a lovely pink
colour.

Ventilation. — Careful attention to the ventila-
tion of all plant houses is very necessary, taking
every opportunity to change the air in the houses
when the condition of the external atmosphere
will justify the use of the wall ventilators, at
the same time admitting a little at the roof. By
this method the air is moved through the whole
part of the house. Maintain the atmospheric
temperature of the stove at 65" to 70" ; inter-
mediate house, 60" to 65" ; conservatory, 55" to
60". These temperatures will not unduly excite
the plants at the present time.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAw, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

The Renovation of Vine Borders. — It is a very
common occurrence to see Vines in an unsatis-
factory condition ; they bear very little fruit, or
what there is is of inferior quality through shank-
ing or some
other cause.
Such a con-
dition is in
most cases
due to defi-
cient root-ac-
tion. The
roots have
penetrated
too far down
in the border,
and if this
important
matter has
not already
been given
attention, no
further de-
lay should be
permitted. If
the condi-
tions were
allowed to
continue sea-
son after season, the results would be
increasingly unsatisfactory. Autumn is the
best season for carrying out this work, while
the foliage is still hanging on the Vines, especi-
ally if the Vines to be treated are such as fruit
early. If the borders are inside and outside, the
inside borders may bedone at the present time,
and those outside next season. Commence by
getting all the best roots up near to the surface
and rela}' them in the following compost, which
should have been got ready beforehand : — Good
fibrous loam, taken from an old pasture if
possible, cut in turves 4 inches thick, adding
charcoal, ^-inch bones, lime rubble, and some
half decayed oak leaves, with about one pound
of some approved Vine manure, and the same
quantity of basic slag to each barrow load of
soil. Work in the prepared compost well among
the roots, and beat it down firmly as the work
proceeds ; the roots should be covered with 6 or
8 inches of soil when the work is completed.
Apply a good mulch of strawy horse manure,
and an application of tepid water to thoroughly
moisten the border. Crop the Vines lightly for
a season or two until better results are obtained,
and do not subject them to hard forcing. If the
borders have been properly made, and there is
good drainage, the roots will soon begin to
multiply in the new compost. Give daily
attention to such matters as the ventilation and
heating of the houses, and afford water to the
roots as often as is necessary. The only soil
obtainable here is of a strong, greasy loam, but
it seems to suit Muscat of Alexandria Vines very
well.

Cucumbers. — A few seeds should be sown
singly in 3-inch pots for the raising of plants to
succeed those now affording fruits. Sow the
seeds in a compost of loam, leaf soil, and a little
wood ashes, which should be warmed to the
temperature of the atmosphere in the house.
Place the seeds on their edges so as to keep
them from rotting, and stand the pots in a
bottom heat of 75", but do not apply water until
the seeds have germinated. Lockie's Perfection
and the old Rollison's Telegraph are both
reliable varieties.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Qarden,
W.C.

•Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications sJwuld be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— TAc Editor does not
uiuiertakc to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himsell
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

•Illustrations. — TA« Editor will be glad to receive andto select
plwtograplis or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c. ; but lie
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspotulents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark ilte paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
tlu Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
tc bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Jan. 6-

TUESDAY,

THURSDAY,

Jan.

Annual Dinner, Soci^t^ Franfaise
d' Horticulture de Londres, at
Caf6 Royal, Regent Street, Lon-
don. 6.30 p.m.

German Gardeners' Society meet.

( Royal Horticultural Society's Com-
9 1 mittees meet.

(Royal Horticultural Society's Ex-
amination of Public Park Gar-
deners.

SATURDAY, Jan,

'ar-al'

Dutch Gardeneru' Society meets

Richmond.

-Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 36-3°.

-Actual Temperatures: —

London.— WciiKcsday, Jan. 3 (6 p.m.) : Max. ji" ; Min.
39°-
Gardeners' Chronicle OfBce, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, l.oaion.— Thursday, Jan. 4 (10
A.M.): Bar., 29-7; Temp., 50° j W eather—SMght
rain.
Provinces.— M'«tiiiesda>', Jan. 3 (6 p.m.) : Max. 51' S.E.
of England ; Min. 41° E. Coast of Scotland.

SALES.

MONDAY AND FRIDAY NEXT—

Herbaceous and Border Plants, 1,500 Roses, Hardy
Plants and Bulbs, Azaleas, Fruit Trees, Dutch Bulbs, at
67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Hardy Border Plants and Bulbs, Liliums of sorts, Her-
baceous Plants, Dutch Bulbs, &c., at 12. 3,000 Roses at
3 and 5. Palms and Plants, Azaleas, Rhododendrons,
&c., at 5. By Protheroe & Morris, at 67 and 68, Cheap-
side, E.G.

•WEDNESDAY NEXT—

At Stevens' Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden. —
Roses, Lilies, Plants, &c.

In our last issue we passed
1906. briefly in review the salient

events of the past year. We are
absolved from the necessity of posing as
(prophets for the year now beginning by the
publication of the almanac presented to our
subscribers with the present number. In it
the reader will find announcements of as
many of the appointments for the year as we
have been able to obtain. We have taken
pains to render the list as accurate as pos-
sible, but some of the dates are liable to
alteration, and other appointments have as
yet not been decided on. Omissions and
rectifications of this kind will be supplied
each month as may be required. So far the
year does not promise to be quite so eventful
as the last, but appearances are deceitful, and
the coming season may after all prove as
crowded as the pasrt. As novel features we
may mention the proposed conversazione of
the Royal Horticultural Society on July 30
and the Plant-Breeding Conference on the
following three days. Adverting, for a mo-

ment, to matters in which we have special
personal concern, we have to tender our most
cordial thanks to our contributors and to our
readers, and especially are our thanks due to
the writers of our weekly Calendar. Our
object is to secure that the directions for
practical cultivation shall be given by actual
practitioners of the highest repute. Last
week we gave a series of portraits of those
who had so kindly assisted us during the past
year. It is from no sense of the inefificiency
of our Calendar-writers — quite the contrary —
that we make yearly changes, but simply that
we may get fresh ideas from different parts of
the country and afford others a chance of
narrating their experiences. We introduce a
new band of Calendar-writers this week in
the confidence that they will do the fullest
possible justice to their subject, and rival, if
they cannot excel, their predecessors.

The mention of the alterations in our own
department reminds us of the change at Kew,
to which we had occasion to allude in a
recent issue. We are enabled this week to
present our readers with an illustration (see
page 9) showing the staff of the Royal
Botanic Garden, Kew, to one and all of whom
we and our readers have been, from time to
time, so greatly indebted. The photograph
(by Mr. Stuart, of Richmond), which we are
privileged to be able to reproduce, contains
the portraits of Lt.-Col. D. Prain, the pre-
sent Director, lately head of the Botanical
Survey of India, and Superintendent of the
Royal Botanic Gardens, Calcutta. Of his
qualifications and the well-grounded hopes
they engender, we have already spoken. In
a similar way we have alluded to the most
valuable services rendered to the establish-
ment by Sir William Thiselton-Dyer, who
though no longer director, remains for a short
period as advisory officer. Mr. W. Bofting
Hemsley, the keeper of the Herbarium or
Library, is one of our oldest and most valued
contributors, and a botanist of world-wide
reputation. Among his staff are Dr. Otto
Stapf, to whom we were indebted for a valu-
able article on the Pampas Grasses and other
plants ; Mr. George Massee, the leading
vegetable pathologist of the country, to whom
our readers have been under constant obliga-
tions ; Mr. N. E. Brown, whose precision and
accuracy of detail are admired by all
botanists; Mr. R. A. Rolfe, who has filled
the place among Orchidists that Reichenbach
once occupied ; Mr. Duthie, formerly of
Saharunpore, a frequent contributor; besides
Mr. C. H. Wright, Mr. S. A. Skan, Mr. T.
A. Sprague, and Mr. A. D. Cotton. To one
and all of these, as we have said, the readers
of this journal are under great obligations,
and to them we are personally grateful for
long continued courtesy and assistance. The
physiological laboratory is under the super-
intendence of Dr. Dukinfield Scott, the value
of whose researches is only equalled by his
genial courtesy. Mr. Leonard Boodle acts
as his assistant, and is well known in the
botanical world. Tlie museums, so long
under the management of Mr. J. R. Jackson,
are now confided to the care of Mr. J. M.
Hillier and his assistant, Mr. Holland.

We come now to the garden staff proper, to
whom our obligations are no whit less. Mr.
W. Watson is universally known as the suc-
cessor to Mr. Nicholson, and the assistant
curator, Mr. W. J. Bean, has won the suf-

frages of the gardening community. Mr.
Irving, the foreman of the herbaceous depart-
ment, is highly esteemed by the large and
always increasing number of lovers of hardy
plants. Mr. Arthur Osborn has charge of
the ever attractive " No. 4," and of the flower
garden. Mr. Dallimore reigns in the arbore-
tum; Mr. Hackett sees that things are as
they should be in the stove-houses, including
the Palm stove ; Mr. Raffill has charge of the
great Temperate house. In addition to these
good men and true are others less well known
perhaps to the outside public, but equally
deserving of our consideration in their several
departments. Among these are Messrs.
Stocks and Aikman, W. N. Winn, Arthur
Garnett, George Dear, and the Sergeant-
Constable, Charles G. Norris. All these are
depicted in our illustration, and have, in their
several ways, amply won the confidence and
esteem and the gratitude of the gardening
community.

Our older readers will remember that the
connection between the staff of trie Royal
Gardens and this journal, though entirely un-
official, has always been intimate, and the
re-organisation of the garden in 1841 (the
year in which the Chronicle was established),
and the appointment as director of Sir Wil-
liam, then Dr., Hooker, were very largely
due to the direct influence of the first editor
of the Chronicle — the ever memorable Dr.
Lindley.

Royal Horticultural Society. — ^The first
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society in
1906 will be held on Tuesday, January 9, in the
Society's Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster.
To prevent misunderstanding it may be mentioned
that the committees of 1905 do not vacate office
until the date of the annual meeting 1906, and in
like manner all Fellows Tickets of 1905 are
available until February 13, 1906.

ReHMANNIA ANGULATA. — One of Mr.WlLSON'S
introductions from China to the nurseries of
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons is the subject of
a coloured illustration in the number of the
Revue Horticole for December 16, M. Grignak
recommends the plant as furnishing " cut-flow-
ers " for decorative purposes. The plants re-
quire to be raised under glass and planted out
at the end of May. It will be prudent to give
it the shelter of a cot and frame in winter. The
plant was figured in a supplement to our issue
for May 9, 1903.

Flowers in Season. — What between the gar-
dener and the hybridiser we have got to the
point when we can include Rhododendrons
among flowers at any season. Together with
some good trusses of Rhododendron x Noblea-
num came, just after Christmas, the following let-
ter from Mr. R. Brooman White, of Arddarroch
(S.W. Scotland): — "I have a tree here about
4 feet in diameter and about 5 feet 6 inches
high. It is one mass of bloom, and was open
on Christmas Day, making a beautiful sight for
this time of the year. There are four Rhododen-
drons in bloom just now, but none so full of
open bloom as the one from which these trusses
are cut. Should the weather continue mild
they will in another fortnight be also one mass
of bloom — very acceptable at this season cf the
year."

—Mr. T. Smith, Daisy Hill Nursery, Newry,
sends us flowering sprays of two interesting species
of Rhododendron, R. dahuricum and R. parvi-
foliura. Both are perfectly hardy, and they
possess small rose-coloured flowers, those of the
latter species being somewhat brighter than those
of the former. R. dahuricum is a deciduous

January 6, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

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10

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, 1906.

species, while R. parvifolium is evergreen, the
small leathery, oblong leaves being responsible
for the specific name. Although the period of
flowering in both cases is very early springtime,
it has been somewhat advanced in the case of
Mr. Smith's plants, who describes them in his
communication as winter-flowering species.

Horticultural Club. — After the next House
dinner of the Club on January 9, Mr C. Jordan,
Superintendent of Hyde Park, will speak about
" British and Foreign Parks — a Comparison."

The Late Mr. Burbidge. — It was our sad

duty last week to announce the death of Mr.
F. W. BuRBiDGE, and to offer a portrait of the
deceased gentleman, but circumstances then
prevented us from referring in detail to the excel-
lent work he has done for horticulture. Mr. Bur-
BIDGE commenced his horticultural career as a
student in the Royal Horticultural Society's gar-
dens at Chiswick, which he entered in 1868.
On leaving Chiswick, Mr. Burbidge removed to
the Royal Garciens, Kew. From 1873 to
1877 he was one of the most active of the
staff of The Garden newspaper, started by
Mr. W. Robinson. During this period, he
wrote several works on gardening subjects,
including " Cool Orchids " (1875), "Domes-
tic Floriculture," one of the best of its kind
in the English language ; " A Monograph
of the Genus Narcissus," and " Cultivated
Plants" (1877), an excellent text-book for
young gardeners. In 1877-1878 he went on
an exploring mission to North Borneo on
behalf of Messrs. Jas. Veitch, and during
the trip he visited the little-known Sulu
Archipelago. This mission resulted in the
introduction of several plants new to Bri-
tish gardens, including Cypripedium Law-
lenceanum, one of the finest of the genus.
Mention may also be made of Burbidgea
nitida, a Scitamineous plant previously un-
known to science, and upon which Sir J. D.
Hooker founded the genus " in recognition
of his eminent services to horticulture"
[Botanical Magazine, t. 6,403). After his
return, Mr. Burbidge published a narrative
of his mission, entitled " Gardens of the
Sun," a work of considerable literary merit,
and which doubtless did much to secure for
him the honorary degree of M.A., conferred
on him by the Dublin University in 1888.
In 1879 he was appointed Curator of the
Botanical Garden at Trinity College, Dub-
lin, to which was added the Keepership of
the College Park in 1894. Mr. Burbidge
was a Fellow of the Linnean Society, a
member of the Royal Irish Academy, a
member of the Scientific Committee of the
Royal Horticultural Society, a Victorian Medal-
list of the latter society, a Veitch Memorial
Medallist, and an honorary life member of the
Scottish Horticultural and Botanical Society.

Brussels Botanic Garden. — The exchange
list of seeds, etc., just issued differs remark-
ably from most lists of the kind that we receive.
In addition to' the general catalogue, it con-
tains an enumeration of the plants to be had
from each of the botanical stations in Belgium,
thus representing the floras of the salt marshes,
the sand-hills, the polders, the heaths and bogs,
the Beech woods, the limestone rocks of the
Ardennes, and so forth. In the same way plants
of "ethological" interest are offered. These plants
are selected to show the influence of external con-
ditions on structure and the means which plants
possess of adapting themselves to various circum-
stances ; thus examples are selected to show
their adaptation to mechanical forces, resulting
in diflerences of " habit," erect, prostrate, etc.,
or in differences of substance, turgidity, de-
posits of woody matter, folding or rolling of
leaves, etc. Other plants are grouped accord-

ing to the diversities in the processes of nutri-
tion, to the organisation requisite for defence
in the struggle for existence ; variations in the
methods of propagation and of sexual repro-
duction are also illustrated. In fact, so far as
circumstances will allow, the whole life history
and manners and customs of plants are illus-
trated, and seeds or plants useful as affording
examples of these phenomena are offered for ex-
change. The perusal of the catalogue in itself
is an intellectual exercise and should open the
eyes of young and old gardeners to the signi-
ficance and purport of the forms and varia-
tions they see around them in their everyday
work. It is one thing to read of these matters
in a text-book or to hear of them in a " popu-
lar " lecture ; it is quite another thing to see
the things themselves collected together so that
" he who runs may read."

EcKFORD Memorial Cup. — We are informed
by Mr. Horace J. Wright that the firm of
Henry Eckeord has placed at the disposal of the

Fig. 10. THE "ECKFORn" CHALLENGE CUP.

(See text.)

National Sweet Pea Society a silver cup, value
50 guineas, in memory of the founder of the
firm. It will be offered for 12 bunches of Sweet
Peas, distinct, to amateurs (members of the
trade excluded), at the Show to be held on July
5th next, and the Society also will give a gold
medal to the winner. The tjrophy must be won
three times in succession before becoming the
property of any exhibitor.

Unusual Coloration in a Narcissus. —
The small j>ellow form of Narcissus Tazetta,
lately appearing in the street vendors' baskets,
shows rather curious variations in the colour of
the cup. When fully opened the flowers are or-
dinarily yellow, with an orange cup, but in some
specimens there occur on the same truss with
these normal flowers others of which the cups
are pale green when first open, and that never
exceed pale yellow in tone. It is difficult to
account for a variation under circumstances ap-
parently identical.

Bracts of the Lime. — A pretty and curious
effect was produced this autumn on some Lime-
trees, the leaves of which had fallen while the
reddish bracts still remained in their places.

An un-botanical lover of nature looking up,
and seeing the trees decked with objects thai
are not leaves, nor flowers, nor galls, may
well feel puzzled. Even now the bracts remain
attached to the trees, although diminished in
number and rendered dull in colour.

Asparagus Sprengeri. — Mr. Stephen-
Castle has sent us specimens of a variet}' o!
this Asparagus, which has very narrow, silver-
coloured margins to the narrow leaves, and m
consequence is unusually attractive.

Colour-sense in Bees. — M. Gaston
Bonnier, in a paper read before the Paris
Academy of Sciences, treated of the habits of
bees in connection with the colours of flowers.
According to the author, says Nature, the con-
tradictory experiments of various observers on
the relations between bees and colour are due
to a lack of knowledge of the habits of bees
There is a division of labour among the honey-
fetching bees, the duty of those first issuing
from the hive being to seek out honey and not
to fetch it. After a certain hour all the
bees are engaged in fetching and carrying,
and none in hunting for fresh sources of
honey, and hence, in selective experiments
of this sort, quite different results may be
obtained according to the hour of the day
fixed for the experiment. The author's
own experiments lead to the conclusion
that the bees a»e not influenced by colour
in their search for honey.

Forestry in Belgium. — A recent num-
ber of Nature contains an account of the
visit paid last August to the Belgian forests
by the Royal English Arboricultural
Society already alluded to in these
columns. One of the most interesting ex-
cursions was that made to the geographical
arboretum at Tervueren. " Here," says
Mr. Fisher, "75 acres of good undulating
loamy land, with a crop of small oak and
other saplings, which serve as a shelter-
wood, are being planted with exotic trees.
The whole area is sub-divided into the Old
and New Worlds, and each of these
smaller sections, representing countries
running from north to south. Thus the
'New World, is first sub-divided into the
Pacific and Atlantic regions, and the
former into Alaska, Rocky Mountains,
Pacific Coast region, and Chile. The At-
j lantic region into Canada and the Al-

J leghany Mountains. The Old World €om-

^ prises Northern, Central, and Eastern

Europe, Siberia, Caucasus, the Himalayas,
Japan, and N. China. In each of these
regions the characteristic trees, broad-
leaved and Conifers, are planted in their
natural mixture. It is also intended to plant
among them the shrubs and herbaceous plants
that naturally grow with the trees, and this has
already been done in the case of Japanese
species. Mr. Bommer, the curator of tl>e Bo-
tanical Museum at Brussels, is in charge of this
arboretum. He has an extensive forest nursery,
where he rears the necessary plants. This bold
and scientific design is due to the initiative of
the King of the Belgians, who has piesented the
State with the splendid domain of T';r%'ueren,
the management of which he still controls."

Armstrong College, Newcastle-upon-
Tyne. — The work done in the four Northern
Counties in connection with the Forestry branch
of Armstrong College consisted of: — [a) Lec-
turing in the college, (b) lecturing at outside
centres, (c) advising and reporting on the man-
agement of estate woods, (d) measuring and
investigating sample plots of woodland In-
vestigation of Woodlands. — The work consis'ied
in selecting ideal samples of ordinary v ood-
lands, measuring the timber upon them, and
noting all particulars of soil, elevation, etc., as

I

Januarv 6, 190(5. J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

11

set out in a circular issued by the college. Mr.
Forbes, the lecturer on Forestry, will, at the
request of landowners or their agents within the
above counties, visit existing woods or lands
which it is proposed to plant, and advise gener-
ally on the subject, including suitability of soil,
site, selection of trees, treatment of woods, sale
of timber, nurseries, fencing, roads, etc., etc.,
on payment to the college of a fee at the rate of
one guinea per day. Lectures to working for-
esters are arranged to be delivered at selected
centres in the four Northern Counties, further
particulars of which may be obtained at the
college.

The Honest Package. — Under this title the
Fruiit Flower, avd Vegetables Trad:s' Journal
figures a basket intended to supersede the ordi-
nary " Southampton gallon." The proposed
basket has a handle across the top, a metal
label that cannot be easily detached, and is
guaranteed to contain an average weight of
5Ib. of stravv'berries. It is entitled, as we have
said, the Honest Package, and it is " made in
Belgium ! "

Observation and Memory. — In the Ameri-
can journal Horticulture for December 9, 1905,
is an illustration showing portraits of the heads
of the firm and of several of the staff of Messrs.
F. Sander & Sons. Some of them are well
known to us and held in high esteem, but we
confess to a feeling of envy at the qualifications
of Michael SomErs, the Azalea boy, who is said
to " know 100 varieties by looking at the leaf
only." Even a Thrips could not be more ob-
servant.

Horticultural Directory, 1906. — We
have received from the office of the Journal of
Horticulture, Mitre Court Chambers, Fleet
.Street, a copy of the Horticultural Directory
and Year Book for the present year. No words
of ours are needed to commend to the notice of
our readers a publication which is in its forty-
seventh year. It is in constant use in the Edi-
tor's work room. More we need not say.

Bod Rot in Cocoa-Nut Palms. — .A mys-
terious disease is reported to occur in various
tropical countries. The interior of the bud rots
and is reduced to an offensive mass. As the
consequences are very serious, investigations
have been made, which tend to show that the
mischief is due to the agency of bacteria. The
Agricultural A'ews (Barbados) recommends dras.
tic measures and the destruction by fire of all
affected trees.

Sugar-Cane Experiments. — Sir Daniel
Morris reports that in Barbados advance is be-
ing steadily made in raising and growing new
varieties of canes richer in sugar and more cap-
able of resisting disease. A form known as
B 208 is largely cultivated, not only in the West
Indies, but in Natal and Queensland, where it
is regarded as one of the richest canes under
cultivation.

The Protection of Wood against
White Ants. — .All timbers, in tropical districts,
with the exception of a few of the more expen-
sive kinds, are subject to the depredations c f
white ants, whilst so far no treatment for the
protection of wood against these pests has been
commercially successful. Creosote and other
mineral oils have been tried, but they are not
lasting, only partially impregnate the wood, and
cannot be used for indoor work. Various
chemicals have also been employed, but
in general these are inefficient or too costly.
The method introduced, however, by the
Powell Wood Process Syndicate, to which
«re alluded some time since, appears to over-
come these objections. This process consists in
first boiling the wood in a saccharine solution,
which expels the air. In the subsequent cool-
ing the solution is absorbed by the tissues, v/ith
the result that the wood is strengthened and

improved in quality. It is afterwards artificially
dried, and the ordinary process is then com-
plete, the wood being thoroughly seasoned. In
order to render wood proof against the attacks
of white ants, it is only necessary to combine
with the saccharine solution certain substances
obnoxious to these insects, which substances are
absorbed by the wood along with the saccharine
solution. The extra expense is thus confined
to the bare cost of the materials added, which
is very small. Samples treated in this manner
were sent out to India by the above Syndicate,
whose offices are in Temple Bar House, E.C.,
and satisfactory reports regarding the same
have recently been received. The application
of this treatment will now permit of the more
extended use of wood in tropical countries for
all purposes, and may lead in many cases to the
substitution of ordinary timber for more expen-
sive hardwoods.

Radium. — Dr. Gager, as quoted in the Garten
Tlora, writes concerning the action of radium
upon plants that the effect of the rays is to pro-
mote their growth in proportion to the inten-
sity and strength of the radium. The degree of
the influence depends upon the thickness of the
coats of the seeds, on the distance of the radiat-
ing body, and upon the keeping of the seed
covered with damp earth. The favourable in-
fluences have well-defined limits. Excessive
irritation may be occasioned by the rays, and
germination may be retarded or entirely pre-
vented. The changes that take place in the
cellular tissue are the same as Jire noticed under
any other conditions where there is excess of
illumination. Experiments with the material
known as the " Kadiotellur " afforded similar
results, but the contrary occurred with the use
of the light-producing element "polonium,"
which has no recognisable influence. If the air
is filled with the "emanation" of radium the
growth is retarded or comes entirely to a stand-
still.

Publications Received.— /t^i-icMHura/ Bulletin
of the Straits and Federated Malay States. Edited by
H. N. Ridley, September. Contents: Agricultural
Exhibition in Penang ; Water and its relations to
Plant life, by Stanley Arden ; Rubber in Sarawak ;
&c. — The Agricultural Gazette of New South Wales,
November. Contents : Seeds and Seed-testing, C. F.
Musson ; Notes on Green Manures, F. B. Guthrie ;
Fumigation with hydrocyanic gas for ladybird larvae
and other parasites ; the Wheat harvest ; Forestry
Notes for New South Wales, J. H. Maiden ; &c. —
Official Catalogue of the Exposition d' Agriculture
Coloniale au Jardin Colonial, Nogent-sur-ilariie,
made interesting by the introduction of various
illustrations. — Bullettiiio delta Societa Botanica
Italiana, October - November. — Nuovo Giornale
Botanico Italiano, October. — This issue is dedicated to
the memory of the late President of the Societa
Botanico Italiano, Federico Delpino, and contains a
portrait of him and an appreciative memoir. — The
Animal World, January, 1906 (New Series). — Imperial
Department of Agriculture for the West Indies:
Pamphlet 38. — Cultivation and Curing of Tobacco ;
deals with one of the most promising of the Jamaica
new industries, for which an important future is pre-
dicted.— .innual Report, Botanical Department, Trini-
dad. To March 31, 1905. By J. H. Hart, Superin-
tendent. According to the report of Sir Daniel
Morris, the Garden is in a satisfactory condition,
and efficient work is being carried on there in assist-
ing the development of the island. The Garden is,
throughout, in a high state of cultivation. — Report on
Botayiic Station, Grenada. 1904-1905. The general
condition of the Station is satisfactory. In future the
Botanic Station will be carried on mainly on agri-
cultural lines, and ornamental plants will not receive
as much attention as formerly. — Nova Scotia : Pro-
vincial Government Crop Report, November, 1905.
Returns from every part of the Province indicate a
better season for the growth of crops than for several
years, but not for Apples. It is noticeable that the
returns are largest in all parts where the mcst modern
methods of fanning are carried on. — The Botanical
MajazJJie, Tokyo, October 20, 1905. Contents: ".ire
the centrosomes in the antheridial Cells of Mar-
chantia polymorpha imaginary? " and various articles
in Japanese.

Seed Lists Received. — List of Seeds collected
di.rin; the year 1905 in the Garden at La Mortola,
Ven:imiglia, Italy. All seeds are offered in exchange :
no seeds are for sale. Liste des Plantes Vivantes
offertes en echange par le Service des Terres froides et
du plein air, Annee 1905. Applications should be
addressed to the Curator, Jardin Botanique de L'Etat,
Bruxelles.

KEW NOTES.
Clerodendron capitatu.m, Schumacher. — This
handsome species has been flowering in the Palra-
house during the past three weeks, and has still a
good show of bloom. It is a species that has not
been in cultivation at Kew for many years, jind
possibly not elsewhere in this country, notwith-
standing the fact that it was originally introduced
in 1846 by Messrs. Lucombe, Pince & Co., of
Exeter, from Sierra Leone. The Kew plant was
obtained from seeds forwarded to the Royal
Gardens by Mr. J. Mahon from British Central
.Africa in 1901, thus showing that the species is
widely distributed, It has very stout, woody,
vine-like stems, with numerous short lateral
branches, on which the dense capitate inflorescences
are borne. The leaves are obovate-oblong, acute
at the apex, 6 to 8 inches long, 3 to 4 inches broad.
They are somewhat membranous in texture, with
soft hairs scattered over the upper surface. The
inflorescence is composed of about 30 la ge flowers;
they are white in colour, with a slender, hairy
corolla-tube about 3!^ inches in length. The
stamens are very much exserted, giving the in-
florescence a light, graceful appearance.

An excellent figure of C. capitatum is given in
the Botanical Magazine, tab. 4355. It is closely
allied to C. cephalanthum, Botanical Magazine,
tab. 7823, which was introduced from Zanzibar by
Sir J. Kirk in 1S86, and is also growing in the
palm-house. C. capitatum has the same remark-
able character in the persistent petioles, which
form a woody, recurved spine, as in the former
species. C. cephalanthum has small leaves which
are quite glabrous, and coriaceous in texture. The
calyx is also light red in colour (green in C. capii-
tatum) ; the corolla-tube is also quite glabrous,
and the filaments of the stamens are of bright pink
colour, which characters make the species per-
fectly distinct. W. H.

FORESTRY.

BRITISH AND BELGIAN FORESTRY.
If Mr. Forbes had felt able to credit me with
ordinary intelligence and candour, he would not
have suspected me of supporting my argument
in favour of the British climate by citing excep-
tional instances of tree growth. Only one of
the examples I gave can be reckoned exceptional,
namely, the Finns insignis [= radiata], which
has attained a height of 61 feet in 21 years. I
mentioned that tree because it happened to be
before my eyes as I wrote. Even that tree is ex-
ceptional only because it has outstripped the
Corsicans among which it is growing by 20 feet.
It is growing in ordinary hazel-loam, about 12 or
14 inches deep, overlying an impenetrable bed
of boulder clay, upon a slope facing the western
sea, which is only three-quarters of a mile dis-
tant, so that its exposed top is open to every
gale that sweeps across the Irish Channel. The
other examples I cited — Oak, Ash, Larch, etc.—
are all on the same exposed seaboard, the only
exceptional circumstance in their favour being
that I have abandoned the old fashion of plant-
ing in strips and clumps, and endeavour to se-
cure the forest soil, indispensable to proper tree
growth, by forming continuous masses. We
shall do no good in forestry till we have done
croaking about the British climate, in the posses,
sion of which most Continental foresters envy us.
Herbert Maxwell, Monrcith, December 2j.

THE FALL OF ELM BRANCHES.
In the Gardeners' Chronicle, October 30, 1905,
"R.I.L." seems to be in doubt as to the cause
of the falling of Elm branches. During the 18
years that I lived in Dyrham Park I had abun-
dant proof of the cause. I daresay "R.I.L." does
not recollect the branches falling in the winter
time, except in violent storms of wind. In Dyr-

12

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JANUAKY 6, 1906.

ham Great Park, as well as in the " Little Park,"
there was a great number of large Elm trees,
and as these had had plenty of room in their
younger days their lower horizontal branches ex-
tended a long way from the boles. It was no un-
usual occurrence for the heavy branches to snap
off close to the bole, but this never happened in
the winter time, nor in rough, wet weather, but
only in dead calm, foggy weather, when the air
seemed laden with moisture. In these circum-
stances the moisture seemed to condense and
remain on the leaves until the branch could no
longer bear the weight. I never could see any
decay or flaw in the timber. All know that vio-
lent storms of wind will break off branches and
uproot trees, but that is quite a different matter,
and I think "R.I.L." will find that it was under
the calm, moist conditions of the atmosphere
that the damage was done. D. Buchanan, Mac-
kay, Qttccmland.

LEGISLATION, AND THE SPREAD
OF PLANT DISEASES CAUSED BY
FUNGI.

(Concluded from Vol. xxxvi., page 458.)

Imported Fruit.

The importation of ripe fruit into a country
is undeniably a source of danger. Many
kinds of foreign fruit examined at Kew have
furnished fungus spores which have germi-
nated readily, and which, if they had found
their way to the proper host-plant, would un-
doubtedly have established a disease. One
redeeming feature in this case lies in the fact
that the bulk of imported fruit is consumed in
towns, consequently the spores are not so
likely to reach those places where infection
would result.

Two of the most injurious and most widely
distributed diseases on ripe apples are
" Brown rot " [Monilia jrucligena), and
" Apple scab " {Fusicladium dendriticuni). It
is very important to remember, however, that
the spores from the ripe fruit are not the sole
means of propagating these diseases. Al-
though fruit growers only recognise these as
fruit-diseases, as a matter of fact in both in-
stances the disease first attacks the leaves,
where its presence can only be detected by an
expert. The spores formed on the leaves are
washed by rain on to the young fruit, and in
course of time the disease shows itself under
the form of scab or brown rot.

It is obvious that in these instances scab
and brown rot could be conveyed from one
country to another quite as readily on living
trees as on ripe fruit. Furthermore, trees
conveying the disease need not necessarily
bear leaves. If a tree has suffered from dis-
ease, spores of the fungus are washed by rain
down the stem and branches, and remain in
cracks in the bark until the following spring,
when they germinate and, in many instances,
gain access to the leaves, and infection re-
sults.

Is Legislation Desirable?

It is mostly in connection with the importa-
tion of living plants and fruit that legislation
has been called in as a safeguard, but, as will
be seen from the above account, as at present
carried out, that is, examination at the port
of entry, it merely touches the fringe of the
subject, and in the proper sense is but a very
poor makeshift for securing immunity
against the entrance of fungus diseases into a
country.

To render legislation more effectual in the
case of imported living plants, all such
should, immediately on arrival, be submerged
for five minutes in a tank containing a fungi-
cide, the nature of which would depend on

whether the trees were in a resting condition,
or bearing foliage. After this preliminary
precaution the plants should be placed in
quarantine for at least a year. That is, they
should be planted in a certain place under the
control of a specialist, whose duty would be to
spray the plants all over, from time to time,
more especially when in a resting condition,
as at this period far more drastic measures
can be applied with safety. By such means
all superficial spores would be killed. On the
other hand, if an active disease showed itself
the plant should be promptly destroyed. It
seems absolutely necessary that all these pre-
cautions should be taken before living plants
imported into a country should be allowed
to be sold and scattered broadcast through
the country. If once distributed, the pur-
chaser may not recognise a disease, or, if he
does, would not in all probability promptly
destroy the tree, but hope for the best, until
the disease becomes established and beyond
control.

As to whether such methods will be fol-
lowed, remains to be seen. So far as the
importation of ripe fruit, more especially
Apples and Pears, into this country is con-
cerned, there is nothing to fear; we are al-
already well provided with all known
diseases.

Finally, it is more than doubtful whether
diseases are mainly introduced into a new-
country through the ordinary channels of
trade. It is directly opposed to common ex-
perience, also to careful investigation, to
conclude that diseased plants are sent out by
nurserymen.

In these days of rapid transit numerous
packages containing seeds which may have
fungus spores adhering, or a few Potatos
which may possibly contain mycelium of the
fungus causing Potato blight, or leaf-curl in
their substance, are being constantly sent to
friends residing abroad, and by such means
diseases are disseminated in a way well out-
side practical legislation.

In discussing the spread of disease from an
infected area to another adjoining area, or,
in other words, from one part of a country to
another, the subject has to be viewed from a
different standpoint to that followed up to the
present. New factors of importance have to
be considered, as the dispersion of spores by
wind, animals, insects, and perhaps most of
all through human agency. The constant
interchange of seed grown in different dis-
tricts, etc., favours the dispersion of disease.
These all lie outside the sphere of legislation,
and, unfortunately, it must be admitted, also
often outside the sphere of preventive mea-
sures that can be applied by the practical
man. It is in this connection that spraying
is of real service in checking the spread of a
disease, and if used as a preventive rather
than as a cure, beneficial results will follow.

Negligent Cultivation.

The only remaining point requiring notice,
perhaps the most fruitful of all in disseminat-
ing diseases to surrounding areas, is the oc-
currence of neglected gardens and orchards
which in this country are far too abundant.
Such places become in time centres of disease
from which material for infection spreads in
every direction. To suppress this possibility,
the outcome of sheer neglect or thoughtless-
ness, drastic legislative measures are in force
in some countries.

The above statements must not be inter-
preted as a tirade against legislation, but
simply to indicate some of its weak points,
as the law is at present administered, and at

the same time to prevent disappointment on
the part of those who are inclined to expect
through legislation, however strictly en-
forced, any marked decrease in the number
or intensity of plant-diseases caused by fungi.
Several definitely proved examples of modes
of disseminating disease have been indicated
which are obviously outside any possible
legislative code that could be formulated.
These, however, by no means exhaust the list
of cases. The transportation of straw and
forage is a wholesale means of diffusing
diseases of cereals and grasses, as the spores
of many of these fungi suffer no injury even
in passing through the alin>entary tract of
an animal. Again, no law would insist on
a man collecting and burning all diseased
Potatos or Turnips met with in a field, even
if in a condition to be collected. George
Massee.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

WA-SHAN TO FULIN.

(Continued from Vol. xxxvi., page 459.)

July 6th. — I left Yin-Kou at 5.45 a.m., hav-
ing enjoyed a good night's sleep in spite of my
filthy surroundings. We crossed a cultivated flat
and passed the village of Yin-Shui-Ping. This
hamlet bore strong evidence of a recent large
fire. Carpenters were busy, and one new house,
nearly completed, looked as if it would afford
good accommodation later on. Soon after pass-
ing the above village we descended by a good
road to a broad torrent. Following this road
for a mile or so we eventually crossed the tor-
rent by a rotten wooden bridge at an altitude of
6,100 feet. The cliffs of this torrent are of lime-
stone and often a thousand feet sheer. In places
they were clothed with vegetation ; a species of
Corylopsis being a common shrub here, and our
old friend Rodgersia was still abundant.

Near the bridge was a house, and behind this
house some trees of Sambucus racemosa nearly
30 feet high, and covered with panicles of red
fruits. Leaving tliis bridge, we followed a path,
on the right bank of the torrent, for a couple
of miles, ascending and descending in a most
exasperating manner. Eventually we left the
torrent, skirted the mountain side and crossed
over at 6,300 feet. Between the bridge and the
pass Lilium concolor was not uncommon. I also
collected a curious Primrose having a very tiny
flower peeping out from an enormous calyx (P.
pycnoloba). Crossing an undulating plateau
we reached the village of Huang-mao-ch'ang,
altitude 6,300 feet, at 10 a.m. and lunched
there. It was at this village that Baber was re-
galed with a kind of tea having the natural
flavour of milk, or, perhaps, more exactly that
of butter. I did not have the same good for-
tune, and, therefore, can throw no light on the
source of this curious tea.

The village of Huang-mao-ch'ang is a filthy
place ; its only street an open sewer. Its in-
habitants are in harmony with the place. They
crowded around me as I lunched, and their
stench was almost too much for endurance,
hungry though I was.

The road afterwards was faurly flat, though we
had to make many sharp ascents and descents to
cross the beds of torrents, most of them dry.
This plateau, or series of plateaux, is highly
cultivated : Wheat, Barley, Maize, Irish Po-
tatos, Peas, Glycine hispida, Nicotiana rustica.
Cannabis sativa, and two kinds of Buckwheat
are the chief crops. One kind of Buckwheat
grows 2i feet high, and has greenish inconspicu-
ous flowers. The other kind has bright pink
flowers, and grows only a foot or a foot and a
half in height ; next to a field of Opium, I know

January 6, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

1 o

no prettier sight than a field of this pink Buck-
wheat. Walnut trees are very abundant, all
cultivated. The houses are nearly all sur-
rounded by stone walls, on the top of which
Rosa moschata makes an impenetrable hedge. It
was then in full flower, and its myriad blos-
soms scented the air. Our coolies bought excel-
lent peaches here at the rate of 500 a shilling !
The cuckoo was singing gaily, and altogether
the tramp across this " flat " was very pleasant.

\fter a time our road led under the lee of
some high cliffs, and in the far distance on our
left some very high mountains were prominent.
So cold was the wind that I thought it must be
blowing across some snow-clad peaks, but the
people say it is not so.

leaving the plateau, we ascended by a good
road and crossed over at 7,200 feet. Descend-
ing rapidly by a steep path, we crossed a
stream, and another steep ascent brought us to
Tsai-erh-di, our resting place for the night. In
the descent I noted several small bushes of the
Davidia. All the trees have been felled, and
the hill-sides are covered with a dense scrub.
This wanton destruction of the forests is much
to be deplored, and makes a botanist feel ag-
grieved.

Tsai-erh-di is a tiny hamlet of half-a-dozen
huts, altitude 7,100 feet.

This day's journey was tame after the one
previous ; nevertheless, I gathered several fresh
plants ; the most remarkable being a new species
of Buddleia (B. nivea) with stems and foliage
covered with a dense white tomentum. The
people en route, though filthily dirty, looked
both healthy and happy : this applies particu-
larly to the women and children. The compara-
tive absence of goitre is very surprising ; oph-
thalmia is, however, terribly prevalent. The
dav was fine, with much mist. It was very cold
hereabouts, and the people were all clad in their
padded clothing.

The following were the noteworthy plants met
with en route to-day: — Tetrastigma sinensis,
Boenninghausenia albiflora, Lysimachia cleth-
roides, Epimedium sagittatum, Lindera glauca,
Populus lasiocarpa, Epilobium augustifolium,
Rosa sericea, Olea fragrans var., Jasminum sp.,
Picea sp., and Actinidia sp. I also gathered
seven fresh ferns. Astilbe Davidii and Ilex
Pernyi we»e not uncommon in places. E. 71.
Wilson.

(To be continued.)

TREES AND SHRUBS.

IDESIA POLYCARPA.

This interesting tree is this year bearing a
more plentiful crop of fruit than I have seen
before at Kew, and as the species is now spread,
ing in cultivation, an illustration of a fruiting
branch (see Fig. 11) may be of interest. It is
not generally known, I believe, that the species
is dioecious — that is, its male and female flow-
ers are borne on separate trees. Representa-
tives of both sexes must, therefore, be planted
before fruit can be obtained.

It is a Japanese tree, said to grow 40 to 50
feet high, and was first brought into notice by
Richard Oldham, the Kew collector, who
gathered specimens of it in Japan in 1862-3.
Maximowicz found the species again in 1866
and gave it the name it now bears. The tree
must have been introduced to Europe then or
soon after, for it was growing in the collection
of the late M. Lavallee at Segrez in 18()9. In
general appearance the tree is like a Catalpa,
but the leaves, whilst not so large, are thicker
and firmer in their texture. It may rank as
one of our fine-foliaged, hardy trees, for I have
this year measured leaves 10 inches long and 7i
inches broad. The outline is heart-shaped, with
an oblique base, and the margin is coarsely

serrate. Both surfaces are quite glabrous. The
branches grow out mainly in a horizontal direc
tion from the trunk.

The species is figured in the Botanical Maga-
zine (t. 6794), but although male and female
flowers are differentiated, it is not stated that
they are borne on different trees. This Is the
case, however, at Kew ; of the two trees grown
in the collection one only ever bears berries,
and only pollen-bearing flowers appear on the
other. It is not as a flowering tree, however,
that the species has any merit, for the flowers,
which have no corolla, are .-mall and of dull
yellow colour. The fruits, however, are rather
ornamental, being of brownish red colour and
hanging in abundant grape-like clusters. Each
berry is only about the size of a large Pea.

The genus Idesia is at present monotypic, but
Mr. E. H. Wilson has recently introduced for
Messrs. Veitch from China a nearly allied and
somewhat similar tree. This is the Poliothyrsis
sinensis of Oliver. It differs from Idesia in
having capsular instead of baccate fruit. Both
belong to the natural order Bixacese. W. J.
Bcan^ Kew.

hundred or so plants have been sold, and tfiis
year it has been found necessary to lift and re-
plant in more spacious quarters. Curiously
enough, after such a hot summer and dry
autumn the plants are, this year, a full month
late in blooming. They often commence to
flower in the last week of October, and almost
invariably early in November, but this season
hardly any of the plants known to me bloomed
before December. When growing, they cannot
be said to be highly decorative, as the long,
arching leaves somewhat hide the flowers, but
for indoor decoration, the flowers when picked
in the bud state, are unrivalled. There are many
named varieties, of which one of the best is
speciosa, with purple flowers. Others are the
white (of which there are two forms) atroviola-
cea, pavonia, superba, purpurea, magnifica, mar-
ginata, lilacina, and Kaiserin Elizabeth. In a
large collection many shades are to be seen in
the flowers, but it is doubtful if any exceed the
beauty of the lavender type. KW varieties are
deliciously fragrant, a fact which adds greatly
to their value. ^. W Fitzherir.rt., S. Divon.

Fig. II. — FRUITING SPRAY OF IDESIA POLYCARPA FROM ROYAL GARDENS, KEW.

HARDY FLOWERS.

FREE FLOWERING OF IRIS STYLOSA.

Iris unguicularis, more generally known as I.
stylosa, is apparently, according to the notes of
various correspondents, unsatisfactory in the
colder portions of the kingdom, where it is said
to require a position at the base of a warm wall.
In the south-west, however, it flowers profusely
through the entire winter and in the open as
freely as with wall protection. Two plants that
have been under my notice for the past few
years have done remarkably well. They are
growing in pockets on each side and at the top
of a flight of steps. The size of the pockets is
24 inches by 17 inches, and these are now com-
pletely filled. Last season they produced 631
blooms — viz., 47 in November, 222 in December,
2o5 in January, 135 in February, 18 in March,
and three in April. The largest daily gathering
was on December 31, when 54 blossoms were
cut. This Iris increases with remarkable rap-
idity. About ten years ago I gave six small
roots to a nursery firm, and the produce of these
has completely filled a steeply sloping bed about
15 yards long and three yards across. Some

FRUIT REGISTER,

PEAR TRIOMPHE DE TOURNAI.

A PEAR ripening in January. The fruit is of
moderate size, oblique, unsymmetrical, about 4
inches long by 3 inches in width, with a short
stalk, skin yellow, flesh juicy sugary, " good or
very good." A coloured figure is given in the
Revue Horticole for November i .

PEAR COMTE LELIEUR,

A VARIETY raised by M. Ernest Baltet, of
Troves. The tree is pyramidal, very hardy and
prolific ; the flowers are double, so that when
in blossom the tree is very ornamental. The fruit
is of medium size, regularly pyriform with a
moderately long stalk. The skin is olive-yellow,
speckled with small brownish spots, and sometimes
flushed with crimson on the side exposed to the
sun. Flesh melting, delicate, juicy, and of first-
rate quality. Season, from the middle of Septem-
ber to the end of October, or even November.
This Pear is described and figured in the Novem-
ber number of the Bulletins d' Arboriculture, etc.,
where it is highly spoken of both by M. Burveuich
and J,I. Charles Baltet.

14

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, ]906.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does Kot hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

"Carnation." — In tracing the name " Carna-
tion," as applied to the flower, Mr. Henslow has
overlooked an earlier instance than those given
by him, though it is quoted in the new English
Dictionary. Turner, in 1648, says, " Vernacula
lingua vocamus a Gelofer aut a Clowgelofer aut
an Incarnacyon." H. E., Bitton.

The National Potato Society's Exhibi-
tion.— Having received a someuhat strong protest
from a Potato exhibitor with regard to the an-
nouncement recently made that the Societ}''s
exhibition of 1906 will be held on December
13 next, certainly a very late date, and pre-
sumably following the Smithfield Cattle Show,
I wish it to be known that 1 have been com-
pelled to resign, from lack of time and ability
to attend meetings of the Society, and preferring
to give place to some one younger, and having
more leisure. The mention of that fact will, I
trust, prevent other protests being made to me.
They should go to the secretary. In the interests
of the Potato, I feel the deferring of the show to
so late a date as the middle of December is in-
jurious. The shows of the old International
Committee were always held at the end of Sep-
tember, or early in October, but the committee
controlling those shows gave first place invari-
ably to the amateur or gardener competitor, and
those who remember those exhibitions remem-
ber also that quite an army of such competitors
had grown up under the auspices of the Society.
I could wish that the National Potato Society
would arrange for an eorly autumn show in the
south, and a later one for the trade, and
northern growers, in the Midlands or Edin-
burgh, in November or thereabouts. The Po-
tato trade, m order to recoup itself for costly
exhibitions, had to depend on the business done
at shows, and to secure such business the best
possible course is to encourage the creation of
myriads of private Potato growers and com-
petitors, as these become ultimately the back-
bone of business. As the decision to hold the
next exhibition was presumably made at the
annual meeting held in December at the Agri-
cultural Hall, no doubt the members present
thought the late date best. I hope I offend no
one in differing from them for the reasons
stated. A. Dean.

Royal Botanic Gardens. — At the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Regent's Park, there is a
house containing an interesting collection of
economic and medicinal plants. Of late years a
great improvement has been effected in the
arrangement and upkeep of the plants, and the
result has been to make this range of houses
more valuable to botanical students. It is a
three-quarter span house and has a south aspect,
and of the three divisions which it comprises
the central is heated to suit plants from a
tropical climate, the two outside ones having
the more moderate temperature of our English
climate. A system of labelling has recently
been introduced by which the genus, the species,
the home, the common name, the Natural Order
of each plant may be rendered familiar to the
visitor. The plants themselves offer various
attractions, some have a Biblical, some a com-
mercial, some a medicinal interest. Among the
" Biblical " specimens we may mention here are
St. John's bread (Ceratonia siliqua). St. John's
bread, or, to give it its other name, the Locust
bean. This is supposed to have sustained St. John
the Baptist's bodily needs in his desert career,
and it has the additional interest, apart from its
Scriptural one, that the single seed in the pod
represented (so we may believe) a weight in
use by jewellers. The Sacred Fig tree (Ficus
religiosa) is more interesting in the acuminate
shape and the leathery texture of its leaves
(unique features to be noticed) than from any
Scriptural association. The commercial plants
are more numerous ; those to be noticed especi-
ally are: — Monstera deliciosa. Logwood (Haema-
toxylon campechianum), Loquat (F.riobotrya
jap'onica), Mango (Mangifera indica), Mango-
steen (Garcinia mangostana), New Zealand Flax
(Phormium tenax). Sugar cane (Saccharum
officinarum), Japanese pepper (Piper futokad-
sural, Nopal (Opuntia cochinellifera), Sarsa-
parilla (Smilax Sarsaparilla), Sandbox-tree (Hura
crepitans). Sweet orange (Citrus aurantium),
Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Chian turpentine

(Pistacia terebinthus), and Olive tree (Olea euro-
paea). The Monstera is an epiphytal climber, a
gigantic Aroid, the leaves are cordate and per-
forated with large holes ; the aerial stems de-
velop long, somewhat woody roots which branch
considerably on reaching moisture. The fruit
when ripe is not unlike the Pineapple in taste.
A fine healthy specimen is now in fruit. The
Logwood is a native of parts of Central Africa
and America. The wood yields a blood-
coloured stain used extensively for dyeing and
for staining microscopic sections. The Loquat
is cultivated in Japan and China for its fruit ;
this has the flavour of an apple. The many
specimens here fruit nearly every year. The
leaves of Phormium tenax possess extremely
tough fibres, which are most valuable in the
manufacture of ropes and mats. The fibres are
extensively used by the natives of New Zealand.
The Nopal plant is interesting in that it forms
the home of the cochineal insect. The com-
mercial cochineal is the dried female. The
Ginger of commerce is the fleshy rhizome of
Zingiber officinale. The best kinds are im-
ported into this country from Jamaica. Pistacia
terebinthus yields a well-known gum resin, it
is a native 'oi North Africa. Lastly we
come to the plants from which are de-
rived some of our most valuable medicines.
Under this category come the Blue gum (Euca-
lyptus Globulus), Quinine plant (Cinchona
officinalis). Castor oil (Ricinus communis),
Papaw tree (Carica papaya), Barbadoes aloes
(Aloe vulgaris). Gamboge (Garcinia pictorum),
Cassia bark (Cinnamomum cassia). Quinine is
obtained from the bark of Cinchona officinalis.
Castor oil is expressed from the seeds of Ricinus
communis. Our supply is derived principally
from India. The fruits of this plant, which can
now be seen, are not unlike those of Datura in
appearance, being covered with little spines.
The purgative drug known as bitter aloes is
squeezed from the thick leaves of Aloe vulgaris.
An oil known as Gamboge butter is obtained
from the fruit of Garcinia pictorum. G. W. D.

Calanthe Veitchii Sport. — At a recent
meeting of the members of the Egham and Dis-
trict Gardeners' Mutual Improvement Associa-
tion, a plant of C. Veitchii was exhibited that
in a very important particular had diverged from
the normal habit of this plant. The specimen
grew from just one pseudo bulb, that had, early
in spring, been put into a 5-inch pot. This had
made two growths, which had developed into
pseudo bulbs of large size, each one carrying
a flower spike of about 3 feet in length. The
peculiarity of this, however, was that while
one spike bore flowers of the usual rosy-pink
colour, the other spike had flowers of a very
pale-flesh colour. The contrast between the
two spikes was great, and the novelty was much
admired by the large company present. I can
only imagine the pale form to be a sport from
the normal type, not at all, I suppose, an un-
likely matter, yet I confess that after consider-
able experience oi this class of plants, I can-
not call to mind any occasion when such a
marked departure from the original was observ-
able. Doubtless C. vestita rosea and C. lima-
todes have been fertilised in many establish-
ments, and the result has been that consider-
able variation has resulted in depth of colour
in the flowers of the seedlings raised. It may
be that the nature of the parent has occasionally
asserted itself more strongly at one time than
another. The plant in question was exhibited
by Mr. W. Wilkins, Park House Gardens, Engle-
field Green, who kindly placed the flowers
at my disposal, which I am now forwarding
you. W. Swan, Thorncote Gardens, Staines.
[The failure of the flowers on one spike to de-
velop the richer colouring possessed by those
on the other spike may be due to one of many
possible causes. In order to determine if it is
a sport, let the pseudo bulb be marked, and
cultivated another season. — Ed.]

Masdevallias at Woodhatch Lodge. — On

December 21, upon entering one of the Orchid
houses at Woodhatch, Reigate, the residence of
Mrs. Haywood, I was astonished and delighted
to see a number of well-grown and splendidly-
flowered plants of the well-known Masdevallia
tovarensis. Altogether there were 19 plants ar-
ranged in one row through the entire length of
the house, which is about 2j feet long. Each
plant was a picture in itself, being literally
covered with flowers ; one specimen produced

as many as 90 spikes, and each spike was carry-
ing two or three white spicy-scented flowers,
the aggregate number of spikes being 1,700,
carrying in all over 4,000 flowers. Being a com-
pact growing subject, throwing its flowers well
above the dark-green foliage, M. tovarensis is
indeed an extremely charming Oichid, and a
valuable plant for decorative purposes, espe-
cially when seen in such luxuriant health as are
these plants under Mr. Salter's skilful manage-
ment. The plants h.re grown in moderately
shallow pans, about 8 or 9 inches in diameter.
Good drainage being essential, the pans are
about half filled with broken potsherds ; over
these a layer of moss is placed, and in potting
the plants are placed so that the surface of the
compost is about level with the rim of the pan.
The rooting medium is compost of fibrous
peat and live sphagnum-moss in equal parts, and
a very small quantity of leaf soil mixed with
it. Plenty of living heads of sphagnum-moss
are put on the surface, and by the time the
plants are in full growth, the whole of the com-
post is covered with living moss. After the dis-
turbance caused by re-jjotting, the plants are
very carefully watered, but when they commence
to make roots and new leaves, water is again
supplied liberally and continued through the
growing season. This Masdevallia should be
grown in the cool house from April until Octo-
ber, and requires an abundance of air and
shade. From October till April the plants thrive
best in an intermediate temperature. On the
day of my visit to Woodhatch, the temperature
of the house was 57 degrees at 4 p.m. W . H. W .

Hardy Plants in flower in North
Wales. — As proof of the mildness of the season
I was able to note on Christmas Day in blossom,
out of-doors in the garden here the following
40 plants : — Christmas Rose, Hardy Chrysanthe-
mum, Carnation, Double and common Daisy,
Wallflower, Polyanthus, Primrose (red, yellov.! and
blue). Candytuft, Arabis, Snapdragon, Hepatica,
Winter Aconite, Colchicum, Violets. Pansy, Lopho-
spiermum, Stocks, Aubrietia, Forget-me-not, Peri-
winkle, Erica carnea, E. Allporti, E. vagans,
Menziesia polifolia, Jasminum nudiflorum, Teu-
crium fruticans, Hamamelis japonica, Laurustinus,
Berberis Mahonia, Garrya, Gorse, Andromeda
floribunda, Rose. Hazel, Polygala buxifolia,
Escal Ionia Philippiana, Pernettya, Arbutus Unedo
and A. Andrachne. Wild Campion and a wild
flower, which, I think, is a wild Geranium. In
some cases, of course, there was only one
isolated flower, but some of the varieties made
quite a show of bloom. Clematis Mrs. Hope has
a faded flower which was in bloom a week ago.
Magnolia grandiflora has a dozen big white buds,
two with the outer petals unfolding, Daphne
Mezereum, red and white, is out at the date ol
writing. No doubt others could add to this list
Snowdrop, Cyclamen Coum, Iris stylosa, and
Crataegus prsecox. H . D. McLaren, Bodnant Hall.
Tal-y-Ca/n R.S.O., North Wales.

Protecting Fic Trees. — Ficus Carica has
attempted to analyse my statements in such
a manner as to uphold and substantiate his con-
tention that the old method of thatching or
protecting Fig trees is now no longer necessary.
The severe winters experienced many years ago
were, it is true, even more disastrous to the Fig
than in recent times when the seasons have been
less extreme. Ficus Carica' s experience 700 miles
north of London takes him to a district where I
believe the air and climate, although severe, is
light and dry, consequently the P'ig is better
able to stand unprotected than it is in some of
the cold and wet counties of England. My
practice is no rule of thumb, I have tried
non-protection, and witnessed disastrous re-
sults in this vicinity. The trees here are still
growing in cold, retentive soil, and although
excavations be made, drainage, and a calcare-
ous compost provided, it will not prevent the
naturally moisture-laden soil from ]3ercolating
into the prepared compost, rendering it cold
and unsuitable. Ficus Carica now says (p.
457) with reference to my remark that in " some
severe winters the points of unripened shoots
were killed down a few inches," " I should
have said when severe winters followed wet
autumns." If he follows his own advice (p.
4.i7) and has excavated holes, provided good
drainage, and formed a suitable compost, he
cannot now say the tips of the shoots were
K'illed from the effects of a wet autumn ; if so,
of what benefit is his artificial drainage

jANliAKV 6, 190(1. ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

15

provided to carry off the superfluous water?
Should he join the ranks of the protectionists
again he will lose no shoots, but with good
culture and properly ripened shoots he may
obtain some of the finest fruits possible.
W. H. Clarke, Aston Rowan!, Oxon.
[Sufficient has now been said on this subject.
A gardener may easily prove which advice is
the best to be followed in his particular dis-
trict by adopting the method recommended in
the Calender by Mr. Clarke, but leaving one
tree unprotected. The value or otherwise, how-
ever, of protection can only be determined in
a severe winter. — Ed.]

Iris cretensis. — This little Iris is seldom met
■with in cultivation, and I have never as yet
come across its name in any nurseryman's cata-
logue. It is a pretty flower, somewhat after the
style of I. unguicularis or stylosa, to which
species it is said to be allied. In comparing
the flowers of the two, those of I. unguicularis
are found to be considerably larger and hand-
somer. In I. unguicularis the falls are 3J inches
in length and ij inches in breadth, while the
standards are ij inches in breadth. In I. creten-
sis the falls are 2J inches in length and three-
quarters of an inch in breadth, while the stand-
ards are only half-an-inch in breadth. In I.
unguicularis the yellow band, which is mar-
gined with purple veining on a white ground,
reaches half-way down the fall, the lower half
being self-coloured lavender or purple, accord-
ing to the variety, while in I. cretensis the band
and veining occupies the whole of the fall ex-
cept the lower half-inch, which is self-coloured.
With this exception, the colouring is the same
in the two species, but with the larger amount
of lavender or purple in the fall the blossoms of
I. unguicularis are more striking. Still, one
would not care to be without I. cretensis at this
season of the year. The leaves of I. cretensis
are about 20 inches in length and only a sixth
of an inch in breadth. It is a native of Crete,
Greece, and Asia Minor, whereas the home of
I. unguicularis is on the North African shores.
Both require similar treatment, doing best in a
light soil in a sunny position, and both flower
pn;fu3ely in the south-west. S. W . Filzhcrbcrt.
Boycotting Judges. — With regard to the
remarks of A Judge, p. 444, most of us are
av. are of the dilficulty judges encounter in
endeavouring to please everyone, but surely
qualified men who execute their duties in a con-
scientious and straight-forward manner should
have little fear of open criticism from exhibi-
tors. I think Horticultural Judges are very in-
discreet persons and much to blame for the
position in which they often find themselves
when they engage so freely in public discus-
sion with unsuccessful exhibitors. This can
only create annoyance to those interested, and
a very bad impression upon those that are not.
Should a question arise and an exhibitor feels that
he would like the personal opinion of the judges
for his future guidance, let it be obtained in
privacy ; then those concerned will get the
knowledge they require to ihe satisfaction of
themselves and their adjudicators. //. Harris,
llV>;7Vf.

Frost-resistant Apple Blossom. — Mr.
W. H. Divers' note upon the hardiness of Lord
Suffield Apple flowers (p. 457, Gardeners' ' hroniele,
December 30th, 1905), introduces a subject of
much interest and importance. I have had the
opportunity of studying the behaviour of about
2110 varieties of Apples in the respect named, and
several of these stand out prominently for their
powers of resisting frost when in flower. For
some time I was very doubtful on the matter, but
repeated observations have proved that the
structural or constitutional differences are very
marked. Stirling Castle and Lord Grosvenor
have, with me. been most conspicuous for resist-
ing sliarp frosts, for the fully expanded flowers
have been frozen so that all the parts could be
broken short like thin ice, and yet a crop of fruit
has followed. Other varieties under the same
conditions have lost the whole of their blossoms.
Lord Suffield I have not observed to endure frost
like the two varieties named ; in fact large planta-
tions of healthy trees of that variety have been cut
back and grafted with other Apples because the
flowers so frequently failed from frost and other
causes. Plenty of evidence is available, however, to
show that Lord Suffield and a few other Apples are
\ ery quickly affected by deficient soil fertility, and
some of the failures recorded are certainlv due to
that cause. R. L. Castle.

THE LONDON MARKETS AND
THEIR SUPPLIES.

(Continued from Vol. xxxvi., page 451.)

In 18S7 a Royal Commission on Market Rights
and Tolls was appointed, the special objects of
which were to enquire as to the extent to which
market rights are in the hands of (i) local autho-
rities ; (2) trading companies ; and (3) private
persons, or bodies of persons. But the enquiry
was also to include an examination of the revenues,
distinguishing the tolls, rents, stallages, the ac-
commodation given, and the ratio of market tolls
and dues to the value of the commodities. Several
interesting and important reports have been issued,
but as regards questions of value and quantities
much of the earlier information given is now out
of date. An annual Market Report dealing with
the relative quantities and proportions of home-
grown and imported garden produce would be of
much value, even if it was confined to a selection
of the principal markets, just as are the weekly
reports of prices. In all markets some form of
record must be kept, but in most cases this does
not distinguish the class or kind of produce, nor is
the source of supply indicated. In some cases
where a toll is charged at a fixed rate per basket
or bag, even the total weight cannot be obtained.
The essential details would not be very numerous,
the work entailed in setting them out would be
comparatively slight, and in a matter which affects
the public interest, there ought to be little diffi-
culty in securing the information desired.

When we turn to home-grown crops, with which
the market gardener and fruit-grower are con-
cerned, similar obstacles are encountered. For
the purpose of the Agricultural Returns I am
officially informed that no separate record is made
of the acreage under market-gardens, and to my
knowledge considerable areas are returned as
farm land which are employed mainly or ex-
clusively for vegetables and fruits grown entirely
for market. Some attempt is, however, made in
the Income Tax returns to distinguish such land,
though not with much success, judging by the
evidence of Mr. Bell, one of the superintending
Inspectors at Somerset House. Under Schedule B
there is a special rule for the assessment of market
gardens and nurseries by which the tenant pays on
the estimated profits instead of on one-third the
annual value. It is stated that no certain defini-
tion exists to clearly distinguish " a market
garden" or "nursery," and the rule is said to
only apply to " 4,749 acres of fruit-land, pure and
simple, in England and Wales, and to 27,413 acres
of market gardens in which vegetables, flowers.
Sic, as well as fruit, are grown for sale." It is
obvious that the latter acreage can in no sense
represent the area of the land under market garden
crops in this country, especially as regards vege-
tables and flowers. Taking the metropolitan
counties of Essex, Kent, Middlesex and Surrey
alone, the area returned as under small fruit, i.e.,
30,000 acres, is largely market-garden land as well.
Adding the land under vegetables and flowers to
the fruit lands the total cannot be much less than
100,000 acres, and it may be more, for that repre-
sents a small proportion of the area (under crops
and grass) in the four counties named, viz.
I. goo, 000 acres.

The estimates of produce in British official re-
cords are confined to the farm crops. Wheat,
Barley, Oats, Beans, Peas, Potatos, Turnips,
Swedes, Mangolds, Hay, and Hops, but a portion
of the acreage returned under Peas, Potatos, and
Cabbages is unquestionably used for market garden
purposes. In some of the foreign and colonial
Agricultural Returns attempts are made not only
to separate market garden and fruit or other
special crops, but also to give estimates of the
amount produced or their value. Thus in Bul-
garia the area under Plum trees is given as 8,472
acres with an estimated produce (1898-9) of
280,984 cwts. Other fruit trees are returned as
occupying 2,845 acres, and the produce is 76.675
cwts., while Rose gardens are stated to occupy
12,582 acres, yielding 133. 311 cwts. of flowers.

In Roumania Plums are said to have 174,619 acres,
producing (1904) 5,611,742 cwts.; Onions on
10,416 acres, yielding 21,492 tons, Servia has
^50,806 acres of Plums, the estimated produce
(1900) being 7,268,352 cwts. Amongst the Colo-
nies, New South Wales returns for 1903-4 the
area of fruit and orchards as 27,576 acres, the
estimated value of the produce being ^^211, 318;
while market and kitchen gardens are given as
occupying 8,756 acres, with a produce value of
/2i3,4i2. Again in Tasmania the Apple orchards
are said to cover 9,819 acres, with a total produce
of 977,362 bushels ; and in Natal the orchards are
given as 3,458 acres, the produce being valued at

There are difficulties in the way of carrying out
such a system in any country, and these would be
especially marked in the United Kingdom, where
the methods and results are so diversified. But
even approximate estimates would be useful, and
these might be obtained in many cases with little
more difficulty than applies to the ordinary farm
crops.

Where special districts are devoted to certain
crops the railway companies would be able to
furnish statistics regarding the quantities forwarded
in particular directions. But the officials in the
majority of cases decline to furnish any details
that would be of service in forming a reliable judg-
ment in the matter. We must therefore see what
can be learned in the markets themselves. R.Lewis
Castle.

(To be continued.)

John Dillwyn Sims. — We regret to record
the death of Mr. John Dillwyn Sims, of the firm
of Messrs, Ransomes, Sims and Jefferies, Ltd.,
Orwell Works, Ipswich, who died at his residence,
on December 30, and was interred at the Ipswich
Cemetery on January 2.

TRADE NOTICES.

The British West Indian Fruit Co., Ltd., have
acquired the fruit-importing business of Messrs.
W. Pink & Sons, and will conduct their affairs on
the same lines as heretofore.

R. Page & Co.
The partnership hitherto existing between R.
Page and J. J. Allen, Tangley Park Nursery,
Hampton, Middlesex, has been dissolved, and the
business will in future be carried on by J. J. Allen,
at the same address as above in his own name.

St. Albans XL-All Seed Company, Limited.
This company has been registered with a capital
of;t'2,ooo in /i shares. Object, to carry on the
business of nurserymen, seed growers and mer-
chants, &c. No initial public issue. Registered
without articles of association. The first directors
are W. J Hart, Jeannie S. Anderson, Mrs. J.
Anderson, Margaret G. Anderson, J. Wright,
T. F. Hale and T. Hale. Registered Office— 591,
High Road, Leytonstone.

Thomson and Company, Limited.
This company has been registered with a capital
of ;f3,ooo in £1 shares. Object, to acquire as
from June 30, 1905, and carry on the business of
seedsmen, nurserymen, florists, landscape gar-
deners, corn merchants, horticultural implement
and sundries dealers, &c., carried on by R.
Thomson & S. S. Thomson, at 20, High Street,
and Central Avenue. Market Hall. Birmingham,
and at the nurseries, Sparkhill and Shirley, as
Thomson & Co., to adopt an agreement with R.
Thomson & S. S. Thomson. No initial public
issue. The first directors (to number not fewer
than two nor more than five) are R. Thomson and
S. S. Thomson. Qualification, /500. Registered
Office— 20, High Street, Birmingham.

16

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 6, 1906.

GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES.

CHESTER PAXTON.— The annual general meeting
of tbis Society was held in the Grosvenor Museum, Mr.
N. F. Barnes, Eaton Gardens, presiding. The annual report
of the Hon. Secretary, Mr. G. P. Miln, revealed the fact
that the list of members and subscribers had increased
during the year from 530 to 560. The finances of the
Society showed a credit balance at the bank of nearly £80.
On account of the President, Major MacGillycuddy, leaving
Chester, Mr. T. Gibbons Frost was elected President for
the ensuing year, Mr. N. F. Barnes being re-elected Chair-
man of Committee, with Mr. G. P. Miln as Hon.
Secretary, and Mr. Robt. Newstead, A.L.S., as Consulting
Naturalist.

EGHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.-.^t the
last fortnightly meeting of this society, Mr. W. Swan in the
chair, Mr. G . Baskett, of Woodlea, Virginia Water, read a paper
on " Orchard House Fruits." The essayist mentioned two
suitable types of orchard houses, the one a span-roofed house
running from north to south and the other a three-quarter
span running east to west. Both should be provided with
means for providing plenty of ventilation. Mr. Baskett also
gave cultural details and a list of varieties of fruits suitable
for the purpose. A discussion followed. T.J.W.

SHIRLEY, MILLBI^OOK, AND FREEMANTLE
HORTICU LTURAL.— The annual meeting of this society
was held at the Shirley Hotel on Friday, December 22. The
fortieth annual report showed that notwithstanding having
to start the year with a deficit balance of £2 14s. 2d., the
committee were able to put before its supporters a very
satisfactory condition of affairs. The balance sheet showed
a total receipt of £107 15s. Od., of which £36 13s. Od. repre-
sented subscriptions and £38 7s. 3d. money taken at the
gate. There was a balance in the bank of £12 16s., and in
the treasurer's hands of £6 lis. 6d. The officers of the
society were all re-elected and Messrs. Fry and Sheppard
included in tlie committee.

PLYMOUTH AND DISTRICT BRITISH GAR-
DENERS' ASSOCIATION.— A well-attended meeting
of the above Association was held in the schoolroom. Ivy-
bridge, on December 20, John Bayly, Esq., in the chair. A
paper was read by Mr. W. Selley, of Defamore, Cornwood,
on " Fruit Culture." The essayist dealt with the Vine, Peach,
Nectarine and Apple, giving the leading varieties of these
fruits and the proper methods of their culture under glass,
including propagation, pruning, planting, etc. A discussion
followed, and a number of questions put to Mr. Selley were
ably answered. Collections of Apples were displayed by
Mr. F. Seward, gr. to the Earl of Morley, Saltram, and by
Major Parker, of Deiamore, Cornwood. The latter also
exhibited plants including Begonias, Cyclamen, &c.

THE WEATHER.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the
Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Wisley,
Surrey. Height above sea - level 150 feet. The
following are the "mean" readings for the week
ending December 30, 1905 : —

1905.

Temperature
OF THE Air.

o

Tempera-
tube OF THE

Soil at gA.M.

CA

<

kj

M

AtQA.M.

>•
<

0

w S

d

a

d

<

Z

X

c5 S

U

WO

13

U5

[I] u

H

o

o

O

E H S

u U

bl bl

3

J2

lU

O

<

<

<

^

o

u

X

u

.n

^

rn

hr. min.

-a

-o

13

-a

-o

•o

ID

TS

Tot

Means

39

38

44

35

33

a

43

45

019

— 36

possible duration ranged from 25, 22 and 2t respectively in
the three districts just named to 10 in Ireland S. and to 4 in
Scotland E.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
Sudden changes in temperature. — On the first day of
the week the temperature in the thermometer screen rose
to 45 degrees, but a few days later only to 34 degrees,
since which it has risen to 47 degrees. Then on one
night the exposed thermometer fell only to 35 degrees,
whereas on the coldest night the same themjomcter
registered 10 degrees of frost. The ground temperatures
have fallen, and are now about seasonable, bothat one
and two feet deep. Nearly three-quarters of an inch of
rain fell during the week. On the and inst. the fall,
although little more than a quarter of an inch, was the
heaviest for any one day for five weeks — showing how
very dry for the time of year the weather has recently
been. Two gallons of rainwater came through each of
the percolation gauges. The sun shone on an average
for about three-quarters of an hour a day, which is
about half an hour a day short of the usual duration at
this season. Calms and light airs again prevailed. For
the first time for four weeks the direction of the wind
was some point between North and East. There was
again about a seasonable amount of moisture in the air
at three o'clock in the afternoon.

DECEMBER.
Exceftionally dry and calm. — This was a warm De-
cember, with no coid period worth mentioning. On the
warmest day the temperature in the thermometer screen
rose to S4 degrees, and on the coldest night the exposed
thermometer showed only 13 degrees of frost— the latter
a renjarkably high minimum reading for the month.
Rain fell on but thirteen days, and to the aggregate
depth of little more than an inch, which is less than
half the December average. It is now fifteen years since
the last month of the year has been as dry. The total
fall for nineteen consecutive days amounted to only
about a tenth of an inch. The sun shone on an average
for little more than an hour a day— which is ten minutes
a day short of a seasonable duration. Only twice before
in the last twenty years has the atmosphere in December
been as generally calm. At no time did the velocity of
the wind in any hour exceed thirteen miles. The direc-
tion of the wind was for only thirty-six hours altogether
from any point between north and east. The atmosphere was
not only calm, but humid, the mean amount of moisture
in the air at 3 p.m. exceeding the average by a per cent.

THE YEAR.

Taking the past year as a whole, the temperature has been
about average. The only cold months were August,
September, October, and November. The most un-
seasonably cold ones were October and November, and
the most unseasonably warm ones February, March, and
July. The total rainfall fell short of the average by
4i inches. There were no very wet months. The sun
shone on an average for four hours a day, or for
about five minutes a day longer than usual. The sun-
niest months were Mav and July. , „ ,

Our Underground Water Siiffly.— The rainfall for
the last three months has fallen short of the average
for the same period in the last jo years by 2I inches,
which is equivalent to a loss of rain on each acre in
this district of 50,450 gallons. E.M., Berkiiamsted,
Jan. 3, igo6.

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.

The Following Summary Record of the
■weather throughout the British Islands, for the
week ending December 30, is furnished from the
Meteorological Office ; —

The tit^ther was generally mild and rather dull over the
Kingdom as a whole, but rain was neither heavy nor frequent
over England. In the Channel Islands and Scotland E.
small amounts fell on four days, and in Ireland somewhat
larger quantities on four or five days.

The temperature was above the mean in most districts,
equal to it in Scotland N., England N.W., and the Midland
Counties, and slightly below it in Scotland E. In Ireland S.
the excess was as much as 4°. The highest of the maxima
were registered early in the week, and were 50° or above in
every district except England E. In Ireland S. the thermo-
meter rose to 56°. During the early part of the week the
minima were very high for the time of year, but they became
much lower some days later, and towards the close of the
period they ranged from 20° in Scotland N. and E. and 22' in
England S.W. to 31° in Ireland S. and to 37* in the Channel
Islands.

The rainfall was considerably in defect over Great Britain,
but equalled the mean in Ireland S. and exceeded it in
Ireland N.

The bright sunshine exceeded the normal in the Channel
Islands, Scotland N.. and England N.W., but in all other
<iistricts there was a deficiency. The percentage of the

HARRISON WEIR.— The Central Neu-s an-
nounces (Thursday afternoon) the death of this
distinguished artist at 10 p.m. on the 3rd inst.
In our next number we shall make allusion to
the work of our old friend and contributor.

ENQUIRY.

Vines, White Nice and Black Damascus. —
Can any reader tell us where either of these
varieties are now growing? They appear to have
passed quite out of cultivation. K. W. and Co.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*,* Editor and Publisher. — Our Correspondents would
obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communica-
tions, and save us much time and trouble, if they would
kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect
that all letters relating to financial matters and to
advertisements should be addressed to the Publisher ;
and that all communications intended for publication, or
referring to the Literary department, and all plants to be
named, should be directed to the Editor. The two
departments. Publishing and Editorial, are quite distinct,
and much unnecessary delay and confusion arise when
letters are misdirected.

Address: T. R. P. J. Forbes, Nurseryman,
Hawick, Scotland.

Correction, see p. 447, col. i. For Cypri-
peduim, read Cymbidium Maggie Fowler.

Daisies in Lawn : /. F. If the lawn is in such
a bad state as you have described, it will be
best to eradicate the daisies by spudding
them out by the roots. Afterwards apply a
little rich top dressing over the entire lawn
and sow fresh grass seeds in March in places
where thej- appear to be required.

Eczema: A.E. B. & R.P. It is a well-known
fact that some persons are subject to severe
skin irritation from handling bulbs and Daffodil
blooms, probably due to the minute needle-like
crystals which abound in the plants. The fact
that Primula obconica also causes severe skin
irritation is well known. In both cases the
affection is local only, so that it is only necessary
to avoid handling the plants to get rid of the
irritation. True eczema, due to constitutional
causes, is a different matter altogether, and for
its treatment you should apply to a medical
practitioner.

Names of Flowers : W. C. We cannot undertake
to name varieties of Chrysanthemums. Send
them to a nurseryman who can probably match
your flowers in his collection.

Names of Fruits : A . Chapman. Passe Colmar.
Gardener, Norfolk, i, Uvedale's St. Germains.
Usually a good grower and heavy cropper.
One of the best varieties for stewing ; 2, Easter
Beurr^ a variety that succeeds well against a wal 1 ,
but requires a good deal of thinning and
watering during the growing season to produce
fruits of the finest quality; 3, Sam Young;

4, Rymer ; 5, Brabant Bellefleur.— /. E. S.
Green Tifi&ng.

Names of Plants: W. &■£. i, Monstera deli-
ciosa ; 2, Cestrum fasciculare ; 3, Trachelo-.
spermum jasminoides ; 4, Juniperus chinensis;

5, Taxus baccata aureo- variegata ; 6, Erio-
botrya japonica. — J. O. C. Kindly send further
specimens of the Codiseums you require to be
named. — A. Y. L. i, Epidendrum floribun-
dum ; 2, Liparis longipes. — B. M. i, On-
cidium stramineum ; 2, Stelis micrantha; 3,
Polystachya Oltoniana ; 4, Angraecum arena-,
turn. — F. W. C. The essential part of the
inflorescence of the grass is wanting Send
perfect specimen.

PoiNSETTiA : R.E.F. The structure is essentially
the same as in the common Spurges (Euphorbia).
The ' ' inflorescence ' ' may be said to begin with
the first coloured bract. Within these red-floral
leaves or bracts is a dense mass of small flowers
with glands. There are no true sepals or petals,
and the male and the female flowers are separate,
though approximate. The "glands" secrete
honey, the coloured bracts show where the
nectar is to be found. The plant is a native of
Mexico, but we are unable to inform you what
insects visit the flower. In this country pro-
bably flies would find the honey to their taste if
it be not imbued with the poisonous quality one
would expect to find more or less developed in
the plant. Now-a-days botanists are agreed
that the plant is a true Euphorbia, and speak of
it as E. pulcherrima. The name Poinsettia, no
doubt, will still continue to be used in gardens.

Situation in the United States : E. J. H.
That there are good openings in the United
States for well-trained English gardeners is
proved by the success already obtained by
many who have gone there previously. Your
best plan will be to advertise in the American
horticultural papers, or write to several of the
best known nurserymen in New York and
Boston.

ViNEEY : C. J. S. No absolute rule can be laid
down in regard to the number of times a
vinery should be afforded water during the
summer season. Much will depend upon the
position of the border, the character of the
soil, the efficiency of the drainage, the degree
of sunshine, and the number of roots there
are in the border. If you have had practical
experience in the cultivation of plants, you
will be able to determine when the soil is
becoming too dry for the roots to obtain full
benefit from the food it contains, but if you
have not had such experience we are afraid we
cannot enable you to act exactly as those who
have. The border should not be allowed to
get very dry even in the winter season, al-
though much less water is required at that
period than others.

Communications Received. — M. Labergerie, Verrieres
France— W.L. M., Texas- R. J. A.— S. A.— Director Kon.
Pomolog. Institut, Proskau— D. S. F.— H. R.— G. H.—
L. R. & Co.— A. R. G.— E. B.— A. W. S.— A. F.— F. E. B.

— D.&Co.— SirJ.R.— F.W. C W. F.— F. B.-M. & Sons

— T. H. W.— F. S.— F. K.— E. M.— Chloris— W. & Co.—
J. C— N. S.— H. W.— H. W. (Vines)-A. 0.—]. S.— J. F.
D.— S. A.— W. B. H.— T. D. J.— Gardeners' Royal Benevo-
lent Institute— J. Pentiand— H.W.W.— H.A.P.— T. Hum-
phreys—W. H.— J. Wallis.

For Matkct Reports, see page xft.

i

Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

-r^^

Petrea volubilis, flowers purple. Note the large size of the pollen-grains.
From the Garden of Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., K.C.V.O.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.G.

I

January 13, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

17

THE

# arb mtxs Cb ran iri e

No. 994.—S.iTURDAY, January 13, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Apple blossom, frostTe-
sisting

Apples, the cross-fer-
tilisation of

Asparagus in suspend-
ed baskets

Benevolent Institution,
Gardeners' Royal

Books, notices of —
Botanical Mau'azine...
The Handy Book on
Pruning

China, Flora of

China, Leaves from my
note-book in

Chrysanthemums, an
audit of

Colonial Note ..-'

Cotton, British-grown...

Cypripedium tessellatum
rubens

Ferns, anew form of re-
production in

Ghent Quinquennial Ex-
hibition, 1903

Grapes, grown out-of-
doors

Horticulture in the Pun-
jab

Manures for Apples

Marshall, W., compli-
ment to

Massart, M., appoint-
ment of as Professor

Natural Selection, the
true province of

Nursery notes —

Mr P, Ladds.SwarJey
Obituary —

Hemsley, O. T.

Weir, Harrison ...29:
P^onia Delavayi lutea...
Pentstenions, raising ...
Petrea volubilis..
Plant-novelties of, igo6
Plants, new or note-
worthy—

Cor>-lopsis, the genus

Potatos, early

Seeds packed for transit
Societies —

Horticultural Club ...

Manchester and North
of England Orchid...

Royal Horticuhural ...

Soci^t^, Fran9aise d"
Horticulture de
Londres

United Horticultural
Benefit and Provident
Stock, East Lothian ...
Thomas, L. E.,presenta-

tation

Weather in Cornwall ...
Week's work, the

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ...

Orchid houses, the ..-

Plants under glass ...

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Corylopsis sinensis 18

Cypripedium tessellatum rubens 19

Grapevines fruiting in the open at Droitwich -0

Hemsley, Oliver T., portrait of the late 32

Petrea volubilis from the garden of Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Burford (Supplementary Illustration)
Petrea volubilis, a white variety of, from the Bar-

badoes 25

Weir, Harrison, portrait of the late 81

THE TRUE PROVINCE OF
NATURAL SELECTION.

IN a previous article on " The True Dar-
winism " (see Vol. xxsviii., p. 401), I
pointed out that " ecolop;ists " are
rapidly replacing the conception that
specific characters arise by means of natural
selection, by the view that there is an imme-
diate and responsive adaptation to changed
conditions of life ; and, in conclusion, I
observed that the assertion that " No
one had ever seen Natural Selection in
action," might be replaced by the statement
that " Everyone may see natural selec-
tion everywhere in action," whenever two
or more plants are contesting for the
same area, or any plant alone with an in-
hospitable physical environment. But the
issue of the struggle determines the Dislribu-
tion of species and not their Origin. I pur-
pose now illustrating this fact : — ■

First, however, it is necessary to observe
that Darwin says that the struggle for exist-
ence and the survival of the fittest is " the
Doctrine of Malthus applied with manifold
force to the whole animal and vegetable
kingdoms "*; and he devotes the third chap-
ter to explaining bow " the geometrical ratio

of increase " only leaves an average amount
of beings to survive.

All this is true enough, and runs parallel
with Malthus' statements; but in applying
that writer's theory to Tlie Origin of Species,
Darwin was obliged to introduce the factor
of Morphological Structures ; because it is on
these alone that systematists found their
specific characters. However impoverished
a being may be which succumbs in the
struggle for existence, such a condition has
nothing to do with the origin of species,
which is based on structure alone.

This is obviously not only a weak point in
Darwin's theory, but, as I maintain, an
uncalled-for addition to Malthus' argument.
That variations of structure among seedlings
have been a source of injury, detriment and
destruction to them, has never been exempli-
fied. In a mass of seedlings of any kind,
some start in the race better equipf>ed than
others, by having been better nourished in
the ovan,-, and by starting into growth ear-
lier. The result is that many succumb be-
cause they do not get enough light, air,
water or food. But specific characters are
not, as a rule, developed in the extremely
young state when thousands of them perish.
Malthus says that the ultimate check to
population is want of food. The immediate
checks are diseases, customs, as well as " all
those causes . . . whether of a moral or
pliysical nature, which tend prematurely to
weaken and destroy the human frame, "t

To add, therefore, structure, on the one
hand, as a possible cause of elimination, as
being "injurious"; or, on the other hand,
as " favourable " or even neutral, in enabling
the seedling to survive, had no place in
Malthus' Essay; and — unless practical ex-
perience could show' there might be some
grounds for it — such should not have been
inserted; consequently "The Origin of
Species by means of Natural Selection " has
no basis in fact.

In order to illustrate true natural selec-
tion, it will be as well to choose simple and
easily-seen instances ; for, as soon as an ob-
server has had his attention called to it, just
as occurred to Darwin in the matter of
.Adaptation in 1S76, " proofs will be plenti-
ful."

Let us take a derelict meadow, still retain-
ing the ridges and furrows which it had when
it was formerly arable land. Such may be
seen by hundreds in the Midlands. In early
summer the bulbous Buttercup (Ranunculus
bulbosus), naturally a xerophyte, but adapt-
able to moisture, as in a uniformly wet
meadow, may be observed covering the
ridges, sometimes 20 feet across, but
they stop short about one foot from the
bottom of the furrow, on each side of it.
In the furrows there is not one pfant. If the
achenes or fruit could spread over 20 feet,
there could be nothing to hinder them from
filling the furrows. They perish, presum-
ably, from excessive moisture.

On the contrary, R. acris, the field Butter-
cup, affects the furrows rather than the
ridges. Adaptation and natural selection
thus effect the distribution of these two
species. As another instance of seeds failing
to germinate, apparently because they can-

* Origin of Species, &c., 6th ed., p. 50.
t Essay on Population, 7th ed., p. 7.

not stand a struggle among grass, is the
Wild Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla).
This is a common weed on arable land,
at the corners and edges of the fields where
it has some freedom; but, by whatever
means the achenes unprovided with pappus
manage to reach the grass outside the field
and between the hedge and the road, it will
be found to occur plentifully on any bare
place, as where a heap of stones had been
deposited, or where turf had been cut, etc.,
in each case being sharply bounded by the
grass surrounding it, in which not a single
plant occurs.

As another instance, a Quickset hedge is
fringed at its base with a long line of Hor-
deum murinum. This runs along the edge
of an asphalt footpath. On the other side of
this is a strip of grass, one foot wide, en-
tirely composed of Rye-grass (Lolium per-
enne). In the depression beyond, where
the road begins, there are Plantains. These
three different species have thus been located
by natural selection and adaptation.

Turning to cases of intense struggle be-
tween totally different species, on the broad
pieces of grass on either side of a road — a
common feature in Warwickshire — numerous
interlopers may be seen, elbowing their way
and ousting the grass. The following are
examples :• — Dutch Clover, creeping Butter-
cup, Coltsfoot, stinging Nettle, dead Nettle,
Bracken ; and, in damp shady places, ground
Ivy, etc. Now, there are two features which
apply to all of them — viz., a broader foliage
and creeping stems. The latter rooting at
the surface absorb the superficial moisture,
the result being that the grass is starved.
Mr. T. Kirk attributes to the same causes the
case of the Dutch Clover bringing about the
destruction of the New Zealand Flax (Phor-
mium tenax).

A point to note here is one which concerns
plant-surveying, for in many " formations "
or " Plant-Associations " it must be borne in
mind that the collection of species may be
diflerent to a greater or less degree, say, in
five years' time. Thus there are two mea-
dows in the experimental grounds at Rot-
hamsted which have not been touched for
twenty years. A census of the number of
species in each was taken in 1862, again in
1S67, and also in 1872. In one the number
had varied from 44 to 50, and the other from
50 to 43 and 49, respectively, while the
grasses, leguminous plants, and " mixed
herbage " had also varied between the
periods when each census was taken.

As another illustration the following is one
of changes in a copse. In woods the strug- .
gle for existence is often intense. In a cer-
tain small wood in Warwickshire a quantity
of Campanula latifolia was abundant some
five years ago, forming a perfect " sheet
of blue." At the present time not a plant is
to be seen. Mercury and nettles have in-
vaded the place by means of their creeping
stems and driven the Campanulas away. <~
On the other hand in another open wood
Foxgloves have driven out pretty well every-
thing else, and now form an immense mass
of purple. It was long ago observed that if
Oaks and Beeches be planted together, after
some years nothing but Beeches will be left.*
Now let us consider the case of a hedge., ■

* The Forest Trees of Britain, by Rev. C. .\. Johns, p'.'ifj?^'*

18

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 1906.

It is made of Quickset (crataagus) ; but birds
(presumably) have dropped berries or seeds of
Elder, Privet, Holly, Mountain Ash, &c. The
seeds have germinated, grown into goodly-
si/.ed bushes and trees, and completely de-
stroyed the hedge wherever they occur.

Another common occurrence is for the
roots of an Elm tree to run along the bank
under the hedge and send up innumerable
suckers, until the Quickset has been com-
pletely converted into an Elm hedge for sev-
eral yards on both sides of the tree.

As an example of an annual expelling
perennials, I made a lawn with turf cut
from a hay-field; but there was a good deal
of Poa annua, as a weed, in the garden. It
'invaded the lawn, and as the lawn was regu-
larly mown, it seeded profusely, gradually
superseding the perennial grasses, becoming
itself a perennial till the whole lawn was
made up of it.

This shows how plants which oust others
under one condition will be themselves
destroyed under a different state of things;
for while Poa annua, Daisies, and Plan-
tains have ail their own way in a mown
lawn, let the latter return to a hay-lield and
the usual perennial grasses will soon assert
their superiority and prove themselves to be
the better adapted to survive under the cir-
cumstances.

Natural selection is thus and in many
other ways seen to be dominant everywhere.
It accounts for the presence and distribu-
tion of species in any plant-association ; but
it has nothing whatever to do with their
origin. George liensloiv.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

THE GENUS CORYLOPSIS,

WITH A DESCRIPTION OF A NEW SPECIES.*

The genus Corylopsis vas founded by Siebold
and Zuccarini {Flora Japonica, Vol. I. (1833), p.
45, tt. 19 and 20), who described and figured the
now well-known C. spicata [Gardeners' Chronicle,
1865, p. 172) and C. pauciflora (Gardeners'
Chronicle, 1899, Vol. XXV., p. 211, f. 80| from
specimens cultivated in Japan, both of which
have since been found growing wild in that
country. They also mention (p. 49) a wild
species, to which they gave the name of
Kesakii, stating that it differs essentially from
the Other two in foliage and in fruit, but with-
out giving the points of difference. Miquel
(Ann. Mus. Bat. Lugd.-Bat., Vol. III., p. 207)
describes the leaves ; but both flowers and
fruits were unknown to him. The most obvious
difference is the smaller number — five or six
•on each side of the midrib — of primary

^Corylopsis sinensis, 11 cm shy : species nova ex affinitafe C.
"spicatBe et C. Griffithii ; ab illis foliis supra medium
latioribus, raraulorum floriferorum stipulis latioribus quam
longis, petalis fere orbicularibus abrupte unguiculatis
et seminibus albis recedit ; a C. Griffithii etiam staminibus
petala fere aequantibus et nectariis vel staminodiis 5 plants
bifidis dififert. Frutex vel arbor 10 — 15 pedalis, ramulis
annotinis glabratis, hornotinis pubescentibus. Folia breviter
petiolata, demutn subcoriacea, obovato-oblonga, rarius fere
ovalia vel orbicularia, saepius 2—3 poll longa, apice abrupte
breviterque acuminata, acuta vel obtusa, basi cordata, lobis
brevibus, interdum leviter obliqua, calloso-denticulata,
dentibus venas excurrentes terminantibus, primum utrinque,
praecipue subtus, pilis longis seiiceis stellatis vestita,
supra demum glabrescentia ; venae primariae laterales
utrinque circiter 8, Stipulae ramulorum floriferorum fere
orbiculares, coloratse ; ramulorum sterilium lanceolatae,
acuminatae. Calycislobi ovales, glabrescentes. Petala lutea,
fere orbicutaria.unguiculata. Stamina petala fere aequantia,
a'ntheris luteis. Staminodia calycis lobos excedentia. Styli
basi pu'»escentes, Semina alba. — C. spicatA, Heinsley in
Journ. Linn. Soc, vol. xxiii., p. 290, non Siebold et
^uucarini.

lateral veins. Tht-re is one small, barren
branch in the Kew Herbarium which I take to
be this species, and, it I am right, it is a slen-
derer plant than C. pauciflora.

Franchet and Savatier describe (Emim PL
Jap., Vol. II., p. 367) a fourth Japanese species
— C. glabrescens — which " differs from C. spicata
in the primary veins of the leaves being more
numerous and closer together, and in the axis
of the inflorescence and the calyx being quite
glabrous." I have seen no specimen that I
could refer to this species.

In 1837-8 William Griffith collected specimens
of Corylopsis, both in Bhotan and Khasia, and
they were subsequently described (Journ. As.
Soc. Bengal, Vol. XXIII. (1854), p. 641, with a
figure) as C. himalayana. In 1884 a cultivated
Corylopsis was figured in the Botanical Maga-
zine,,t. 6,779, under the name of C. himalayana.

A Chinese species — C. multiflora — had, in the
meantime, been described (Ann. Sc. Nat., 4 me.
serie, Vol. XV., p. 224) by Hance.

perhaps the most ornamental. The foliage,
wliich is very much alilte in all the species, bears
a general resemblance to that of the Lime and
Hazel (Corylus), hence the generic name ; but it
exhibits quite pect;iiar and distinctive charac-
ters. As in many other plants, the leaves of the
flowerless shoots are latger and somewhat dif-
fesent in shape from those of the flowering
shoots. Otherwise they are alike, and their
prominent characteristic is afforded b^' the
straight, parallel, primary veins, which run out
from the midrib at an acute angle, and terminate
beyond the margin in small, thickened teeth. A
few secondary and tertiary veins run out in the
same way below the middle of the leaf. In the
bud the leaves are beautifully folded, the pleats
corresponding to the primary veins. The young
parts are mostly clothed with long, silky hairs,
simple and stellate intermixed. The flowering
and fruiting branches present very great dif-
ferences, and I will try t® describe the nature of
the evolution. A young flowering branch is not

h, i^^H^dU

Fig. 12. — coKVLOPSis sinensis (hemsley).

Fig. 1, flowering brancb of Corylopsis sinensis, Hemsley, bearing near the base two undeveloped leaves,
which are almost concealed by the stipules. Fig. 2, a flower, subtended by a bract and two bracteoles.
Fig. 8, a flower from which the calyx-lobes and petals have been removed. Fig. 4, a nectary or staminode.
Fig. 6, fruiting-branch bearing two fully-developed leaves. Fig. 6, a seed. Figs. 1 and 5 natural size ; the

rest enlarged.

Both Dr. A. Henry and Mr. E. H. Wilson
collected specimens of Corylopsis in various
localities in China, and two species at least
have been raised by Messrs. James Veitch and
Sons from seeds sent home by the latter.

One of these flowered last spring, and, on
comparing it with the dried specimens, I dis-
covered that Kew possessed two or three, or
perhaps even more, unde?cribed Chinese species.
This led to an examination and comparison of
the specimens from the mountains of North
India, and the discrimination of three species
instead of one. The main botanical results of
these investigations will appear in the forthcom-
ing part of Hooker's Icones Planiarum ; but
I will here give a few notes on the genus Cory-
lopsis as a whole, and a description of the species
flowered by Messrs. Veitch.

Among deciduous shrubs or small trees,
flowering in winter or early spring, the species of
Corylopsis constitute a very distinct and elegant
type; and of those in cultivation C. spicata is

unlike that of the female Hop ; but its composi-
tion is quite different. Ai first it is horizontal,
or nearly erect, but as it lengthens it droops,
and it hangs almost straight down in the flower-
ing stage. It then consists of an axis bearing a
few brown, empty scales at the base, followed
by one, two, or three pairs of opposite organs,
bract-like in texture and colour, but which are
really stipules, as is attested by the presence of
as many young leaves. Then come the sessile
flowers, each one subtended by a bract and two
lateral bracteoles. After flowering, the axis still
further elongates, and straightens and stiffens ;
the stipules fall away, the leaves develope, and
the Hop-like body becomes an ascending or
erect branch, bearing one, two, or three leaves,
and terminating in a rigid spike of seed vessels. '
The stipules of the barren branches are smaller
and different in shape and even more caducous.
The nature and composition of the flowerinj^
shoots of many Willows is almost exactly the
same as in Corylopsis, except that the stipules

January 13, 190ti.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

19

are smaller on the flowering than on the barren
shoots.

The structure of the flowers of Corylopsis is
very simple, consisting of a calyx tube, more or
less adherent to the ovary, with or without five
free lobes or teeth ; five petals ; five stamens ;
five or ten bodies, variously described as scales
of the disk, glands of the nectary and sta-
minodes ; a two-celled ovary, one pendulous
ovule in each cell, and two long, slender styles.
The fruit is a woody capsule, splitting open to
allow the seeds to escape the bifid valves tipped
by the hardened bases of the split styles.

Corylopsis sinensis differs from C. spicata, to
which it is most closely allied, in the stipules of
the flowering branches being broader than long ;
in the leaves being broadest above the middle ;
in the orbicular petals being suddenly narrowed
into a distinct claw ; in the yellow anthers and
white seeds.

The Bhotan and Khasyan specimens, doubt-
ingly referred as varieties by Griffith to the C.
himalayana, I consider as representing two dis-
tinct species, and to the former belongs the name
himalayana, of which G. grata is a synonym,
used by Griffith in the publication cited above in
his description of the plate, and on the plate.
This species has not been collected since
Grifiith's time.

For the plant cultivated as C. himalayana I
propose the name Griffithii, and 1 shall discuss
the differential characters of these two species in
another place. C. sinensis inhabits the provinces
of Kiangsi, Hupeh and Szechuen, and flowers
freely while still quite young and small. W.
Bolting Hemsley.

CYPRIPEDIUM TESSELLATUM

KUBENS.
The attractive and distinct flower shown in
fig. 13 was exhibited by Messrs. Sander & Sons,
St. Albans, at the meeting of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society on 19th ult., when the Orchid
Committee granted it an Award of Merit. The
colour of the flower is almost unique, being of a
dark shade of red, with an infusion of yellow, and
including some purple spotting. It is the result of
a cross betv^-een C, concolor and C. barbatum
grandiflorum. Not the least beautiful portion of
the plant is the foliage, the markings on which
present a pleasing tessellated appearance.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS.

AN AUDIT OF JAPANESE VARIETIES.
I HAVE made a careful audit of the varieties con-
tained in the winning prize stands of 36 Japanese
and 2-1 incurved Chrysanthemums throughout the
country and the following shows the number of
times that individual varieties have been exhibited.
Altogether some 130 varieties have been shown
in the prize stands. It will be noticed that last
year's novelties have not been shown very ex-
tensively, the two most prominent in this respect
being Mrs. \V. Knox and Mrs. T. Dalton.

JAPANESE.

3>

Name

1/: C

6 0

o

Name.

i 5
= o

£

^■■Jl

o

3.

i-75

1

F. S. Vallis

... .'■.o

IS

J. Lawrence

- fl

2

Mrs. F. W. Vallis

... ;i:l

18

Mde. Gustave Henry 9

B

Bessie Godfrey -.

... -Jil

18

Madame Camot ....

. 9

4

Mde. Paolo liadac

11. :;.-.

■11

\\ . .\. Elherington.

. 8

b

Mrs. Barkley

... -n

•I'i

Miss Mildred Ware.

. H

6

W. R. Church

... HI

■1\

C. Monti«ny

7

7

J. H. Silsbury

... IS

•J4

Miss Olive .Miller .

. 7

u

Mrs. J. Dunn ... .

... 17

•l\

M. Louis Remy ....

. 7

8

Valerie Greeuhani

... 17

■li

EJith Smith

7

lU

Henry Perkins ..

... Hi

■si

Kimberley

7

11

DuchessolSutherl

nil 15

2J

President Viger ....

. (i

\l

Mrs. G. Mileham

... 13

l:y

Mrs. J. Hadaway..-.

. 1)

12

Mafeking Hero ..

... 13

29

Mrs. C. Beckett ...

li

12

General Hutton ..

... 13

•29

Mrs. VV. Knox

. n

15

Miss Elsie Fulton

... 11

29

Godfrey's Pride ....

. (!

li)

Lady Conyers

... U

29

Miss Stopford

. (;

IV

Mrs. Mease

... 10

29

Mrs. J. Lewis

. (i

V6

Marquise V. Veno

>ta U

3j

Mrs. Bryant

.. (i

INCURVED.

C. H. Curtis -24

Buttercup 15

Mrs. F. Judson i:J

Pantia Ralli 13

Topaze Orientale 11

laline 10

Emblem*? Poitevine 9

William Biddle 9

Mrs. J. Seward H

Mrs. J. P. Bryce 8

Mrs. Barnard Hankey H
George W. Matthew 8

W. Pascoe 6

Miss Nellie Southam 6

Duchess of Fife 6

Madame Ferlat 6

Nellie Threlfall 5

Mrs. C. Crooks 5

Lady Isabel 5

Fred Palmer 5

Frank Hammond ... 5

Miss E. Seward 5

Souv. de William Cli-

bran 5

H.J.Jones 5

VEGETABLES.

EARLY POTATOS.
How is it that amidst the wealth of new varie-
ties the old Ashleaf Kidney seems almost lost.

afforded it would then be easy to plant each sec-
tion separately, and thus ensuie a very
satisfactory trial. Still farther, every set
of tubers should be se<it in not later
than the middle of March so as to give
time for the tubers to be set up in boxes to
sprout ready for planting. By this sprouting
alone much would be done to enable identity or
distinctness to bo recognised, as the elucidatioa
of synonyms should be an important feature ia
any trial. To avoid the harm so frequently
done to Potato tops in the spring, planting
should be deferred until the last week in April.
Many a first-rate variety, in trials of this de-
scription, has suffered in reputation so far as
cropping was concerned, because of the injury
from frost inflicted in the spring.

Besides such a trial (and here I would
add that the place of growth of the tubers
of each variety should also be stated) there
should be not later than the end of July or early

^a^t.^TTA^'z-^^ "

Fig. 13. — CYPRIPEDIUM TESSELLATUM RUBENS.

H S. Kemp, Glencoe, Tiwbridsc Wells.

whilst the perhaps older Walnutleaf Kidney, once
resuscitated as Mona's Pride, seems to have
entirely disappeared. Good as the Ashleaf
and Walnutleaf Kidneys were they had their
faults, and sometim.es failed to give a satis-
factory crop. Although classed as first earlies,
they were not so early as the newer varieties.
There was, however, a characteristic flavour
in the cooked tubers that is not always
apparent in other varieties. It would be
specially interesting could we have a real
trial of early Potatos at Wisley this year.
It has been shown during the past year that
Potatos succeed well on the Wisley soil, and
that those grown there develop eiicellent quality.
Potato trials there, as formerly at Chiswick,
usually suffer from the neglect of those who
send tubers for trial to specify the ripen-
ing season of the varieties, whether early, mid-
season, or late ; also the average height of plant-
growth. All such information should be rigidly
insisted upon on pain of neglect to test any
variety received. If this information were

in August an exhibition in London of earl-y
varieties. It is not needful to have many
classes. A few would suflSce so as to bring
samples of lesser known varieties more fully
before the public. Good samples from the
Wisley collection should also be staged, and
doubtless members the trade would readily send
collections, not necessarily large ones, but such
as would enable the public to note good
varieties, with which, so far, they may not
be generally familiar. Suoh an exhibition
would in no case introduce the huge un-
gainly tuber so often seen at late exhi-
bitions. It would also emphasise the import-
ance of first early Potatos to the consumer, an
importance that is just now somewhat over-
looked when late varieties only are exhibited.
We are getting very fine additions to our first
early varieties every year. This season Messrs.
Sutton & Sons are ottering for the first time a
semi-kidney in Gladiator, one of .great
excellence ; and from Scotland both Messrs.
Dobbie & Co. and Mr. T. A. Scarlett are offer-

20

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

LJanuaey 13, 1906.

ing their Midlothian Early. From the same
sources comes the earliest of the Rosebery
strain in Dalmeny Early. No doubt there are
others offered as well and not yet widely Itnown,
but if some half-dozen only of quite new early
varieties come out each year, then the numbers
of the section must grow rapidly. Of older
varieties there are Harbinger, May Queen, Ring-
leader, Sharpe's Victor, Duke of York, Early
Puritan, Beauty of Hebron, Sharpe's Express,
Pride of Tonbridge, Sir J. Llewellyn, Snow-
drop, Recorder, Epicure, Ninetyfold, and
many others, all more or less favourites with
various growers. A cooking test for first earlies
would also be most interesting, especially were
the old Ashleaf Kidney, always so much liked
for its yellowish fiesh and pleasant, nutty
flavour, included as a test variety. There is tc
be a special competition for early Potatos at
Marks Tey, Essex, on August 1, when no doubt
many excellent varieties, new and old, will be
seen. But what is needed is a tuber competi-
tion and growing trial, such as the Royal Horti-
cultural Society could conduct at Vincent
Square and at Wisley. In the past the Society's
trials have been confined too much to the test-
ing of varieties. We need wider e.xperiments
now, and early Potatos present most excellent
material to start with. A. D.

OUT-DOOR GRAPES AT
DROITVVICH.

At fig. 14 is reproduced a photograph of the
out-door vines m the Worcestershire experimental
garden at Droitwich, which was obtained at the
time the fruit was being gathered last autumn
for the purpose of making into wine. Mr. J.
Udale, who is the chief horticultural instructor
for the county, cultivates in the manner shown in
the illustration about 40 vines of the variety Gammy
Noir. This is the same variety as is grown in
the Marquis of Bute's vineyards near Cardiff,
which were planted by the late Mr. Pettigrew in
1886, and subsequently, and of which a descriptive
account was published in these pages on September
9, 1893. Those at Droitwich are cultivated on
the same system as is practised at Cardiff,
and before establishing the latter vineyards
the late Mr. Pettigrew studied personally the
conditions of the vineyards in France, and the
practices adopted there. The vines are cut down
to within two feet of the ground each year, and
below this point are pruned to long spurs. A stout
stake is fixed near each vine, and the young
growth tied thereto and allowed to extend to the
top of the stake, where it is stopped. The reason
for cutting the vines near down to the ground-
as Mr. Udale explains in his recently-published
work, The Handy Booh on Pruning, is to secure to
the Grapes the latent warmth of the soil, which
materially aids their ripening.

The figure abundantly shows that good crops
are obtained at Droitwich, and we have reason to
know that the Grapes last season, some of which
were exhibited at the Birmingham Chrysanthemum
Show, were ripened sufficiently for use in making

SEED PACKING.

In the Gardeners' Chronicle for February 11,
1905, p. 90, there is a note of mine on seed
packing, in which I stated that " For seeds
generally I know of nothing better than paper
packets and calico bags, and the more moisture
there is in the seeds themselves when thus
packed the better. Hermetically-sealed tins or
bottles should never be used." In subsequent
issues of the Gardeners' Chronicle this recom-
mendation was adversely commented upon ;
Messrs. J. Carter & Co. wrote (p. 124): — "It
has been over and over again proved that the

ordinary vegetable and flower seeds will rarely
retain their vitality if sent away from here
without some special treatment which elimin-
ates a large percentage of the moisture con-
tained in them, when har\'ested naturally in our
temperate climate. To overcome this difficulty,
we have for many years not only subjected this
class of seeds to a special drying process, but
enclosed each packet in tinfoil, and this again
is placed in a hermetically-sealed covering, from
which the air is exhausted." Mr. J. W. T.
DuvEL, of Washington, U.S.A., wrote (p. 163) :
— " Carefully conducted experiments have given
results which are diametrically opposed to those
set forth by Mr. Watson." Mr. H. R. White-
law (p. 171) attributed the failure of a collec-
tion of seeds sent from England to the Trans-

from British and Continental dealers, and they
have invariably gi\en satisfaction to their re-
cipients. There can be no question of the suc-
cess of the seeds received at Kew from all parts
of the world when they are packed in a com-
mon sense way ; failure is generally in those
cases where sealed tins or bottles have been used.

Mr. Wilson, Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons' col-
lector in China, had really wonderful success
with the seeds he brought and sent home,
they numbered some thousands of packets ; and
he informs me that he employed the Kew
methods, with which he was quite familiar, hav.
ing had charge of our t ipical seed department
for about a year.

As I was unable to speak from actual experi-
ence as to the requirements of vegetable seeds

Fig. 14. — the out-door vines in the countv experimental garden,
at droitvvich, worcestershire.

vaal to their having been packed " as if they
were only to go a few miles."

I have also received protests from others, in-
cluding seed dealers, who accused me of a de-
sire to injure the seed trade between this
country and the tropics ! My feeling in the
matter has always been that if this special treat-
ment and expensive packing were necessary in
the case of seeds supplied by dealers, then the
thousands of packets of seeds of all kinds sent
from Kew should have failed to grow in con-
sequence of our packing them in the manner
recommended above. But reports were al-
ways to the contrary effect. For years we have
made a practice of sending to some tropical gar-
den all the flower seeds left from our annual
sowing, the bulk of them having been obtained

sent from this country to the tropics, I decided
to test some, and, therefore, with the permission
of the director, I obtained from Messrs. StJTTO.N
& Sons a collection of vegetable seeds as sup-
plied for sowing in this country, divided each
packet into three lots, placed each lot in an
ordinary paper packet, and packed each set of
43 packets in a thin wooden box. Each set con-
tained seeds of Bean, Beetroot, Broccoli,
Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrot, Cauliflower,
Celery, Cress, Cucumber, Endive, Kale, Leek,
Lettuce, Marjoram, Mustard, Parsnip, Parsley,
Pea, Onion, Radish, Spinach, Tomato, Turnip,
and Vegetable Marrow. The three sets were
then forwarded by parcel post on April 11, 1905,
to the following: —
Mr. W. N. Sands, Curator, Botanic Garden,

JaJjuarv 13, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

21

St. Vincent, West Indies ; Mr. F. S. Sillitoe,
Superintendent, Palace Gardens, Khartoum,
Soudan ; Mr. J. W. Campbell, Superintendent,
Government Gardens, Taiping, Perak, Federated
Malay States.

To each of these I sent a copy of the follow-
ing note: —

" Dear Sir,— You may have seen in the Car-
deiiers' Chronicle recently some notes by me and
others on the best methods of preparing and
packing seeds for transport to tropical coun-
tries. Some authorities consider it necessary to
prepare the seeds by a special drying process,
wrap them in tinfoil, and pack them in her-
metically-sealed tins, from which the air is ex-
hausted, to preserve them from the effects of
heat and moisture during the journey. As you
are aware, we do not treat seeds distributed
from Kew in this way, snd I believe our seeds
travel well. But it has been stated that seeds
of English garden vegetables would not survive
our treatment. To test this I am sending you
a collection of 43 packets of seeds purchased
for the purpose, and I shall be greatly obliged
if you will carefully note the behaviour of each
kind after sowing, and report the results to me.
— Yours, etc., W. Watson."

In selecting these three stations, the aim was
to get as diverse conditions as possible. Perak
is in the Malay Peninsula, and is distant nearly
a month's journey through the tropics, includ-
ing the pasjage through the Red Sea, whilst the
conditions of the Government garden at Taiping
are extremely moist, and, therefore, trying for
seeds of temperate plants. Khartoum, on the
other hand, is extremely hot and dry, and gar-
dening IS, according to Mr. Sillitoe, very diffi-
cult. The West Indian test would apply to most
countries in tlie Western Hemisphere.

No report has yet been received from Mr.
Sands, of St. Vincent, but he wrote on May 5 : —
" The box containing 43 packets of vegetable
seeds arrived safely on April 25, and 1 shall
have much pleasure in carrying out your wishes.
I intend dividing each packet into several lots
and testing the germinating power at intervals.
1 obtain the greater part of the seeds required
for the department here from the United States,
so that I have no previous notes to give you,
but will supply full details of the behaviour of
this lot later on."

Mr. Sillitoe wrote from Khartoum on No-
vember 26 as follows: — "The box of vegetable
seeds arrived here in May, after I had left for
England. It, therefore, had to await my re-
turn in August, but that being one of our hottest
months nothing was sown till September, and
the majority not till October. The last sown
were the Peas on November 17. They are now
looking very promising. Peas, as a rule, are
not a success here ; they make plenty of growth
but little flower. I suppose the seeds sent to
me have experienced the hottest time of any
that have been sent from England. With the
exception of three or four small storms, we have
had no rain for five months, and a daily aver-
age maximum shade temperature of nearly
100° F., the highest maximum being 112° F. At
the time of writing, 4 p.m., it is 95"^ in my ver-
andah. The maximum daily shade temperature
in September was 100°-105" 1". and the minimum
80°-85° F. at night. The seeds sown then were
Lettuce, Endive, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Tomato,
and Onion. They all germinated well in two
or three days. Those sown later were Beans,
Carrot, Cucumber, Radish, Turnip, Marrow,
and Spinach. These also germinated well in a
few days. Th« only failure in the whole col-
lection was Celery, which often fails here ; in
fact, the only Celery seed that has grown is
some I obtained from Cairo. This season I
have had seeds from most of the leading Eng-
lish dealers, packed either in hermetically-
sealed tin boxes or wrapped in tinfoil, but in
my opinion all this extra care is unnecessary
for seeds coming to a dry climate like this, al-
though it may be advisable for a wet one. If
large seeds, as Peas and Beans, are not abso-
lutely dry when packed in air tight tins, the
moisture from them causes all the smaller
seeds in the tin with them to mould This has
occurred with several collections that I have re-
ceived, but it would not happen if a plain
wooden box were used."

Mr. Campbell wrote from Taiping, Perak, on
July 14: — "The seeds were received in good
condition on May 12, and were sown the follow,
ing day. With the exception of Parsnips, every,
thing germinated splendidly. Peas were all up
in seven days, and American Wonder Pea was
ready for table in six weeks. Broad Beans, Car-
rots, and Turnips were up in eight days ; Rad-
ish, Cabbage, Spinach, Lettuce, and Endive in
six days ; Mustard and Cress in two days. All
the crops promise well, except Spinach ; this
germinated well but grew badly, owing to the
heavy rain we had at that time. Parsnips al-
ways germinate badly here. I have twice before
sown Parsnip seeds that have been specially
dried, but they failed to germinate. This gar-
den is at an elevation of 3,400 feet ; the aver-
age night temperature is 63°, day temperature
in shade 78° ; average rainfall about 185 inches
per annum. The actual rainfall for May, the
month the seeds were sown, was 21.83 inches,
there being only nine dry days in the month.
The question of seed packing is important. If
you can succeed in proving that seeds can be
sent safely from England to the tropics without
special drying, airtight cases, etc., it will make
a considerable difference in their cost." W.
Watson, Kew.

MANURES FOR APPLES.

We extract the following particulars relating
to the use of artificial manures from a letter
contributed to the Daily Graphic by a cor-
respondent. They may be compared with in-
terest with the results obtained at Woburn,
where the results from the use of artificial
manures were found much less favourable.

The experiments were carried out in Germany
with a large orchard of King of the Pippins
Apple, five long rows of which received different
raanurial treatment. One row was left un-
treated, while the four others had different
manurial combinations. The row left un-
manured yielded 104 lbs. of Apples per tree
during the five years reported on by Dr. Wag-
ner, and in the fifth year (1904), which was the
year of maximum yield for the entire orchard,
the weight of the Apples per tree was 55 lbs.,
and the number 294.

The best results from manuring were obtained
by the use of a complete mixture consisting of
IJ lbs. of sulphate of ammonia, 1^ lbs. of muri-
ate of potash, and 3^ lbs. of basic slag,
applied to the roots during the winter.
During the five years the yield per tree
from this dressing was 163 lbs. of Apples, while
by the fifth year the crop had increased to 401
Apples, weighing 105 lbs. per tree. That is,
the weight of Apples per tree was increased by
this plan of manuring from 56 lbs. per tree on
the unmanured trees to 105 lbs. per tree on the
manured trees, or 90.9 per cent., while the num-
ber of Apples per tree was increased from 294 to
401, or 36 per cent. The increase in the average
size of the Apples is, perhaps, as remarkable as
any feature in these experiments. Those from
the unmanured trees averaged 2.98 ounces each,
and those from the manured trees 4.19 ounces
each — an increase in the average size of the
Apples of over 40 per cent.

The trees were planted in 1891, eight yards
apart in every direction. Up to 1896, the soil
under and between the trees was used for Rasp-
berries, Gooseberries, and Currants ; in 1897
the land was fallowed ; in 1898 and 1899 Early
Potatos were grown ; in 1900 a mixture of Peas,
Beans, Vetches and Oats were grown and cut
green ; in 1901 Early Potatos were again grown ;
while in the autumn of that year the orchard
was sown to grass, in which it has remained ever
since. The lessons of the manurial experiments
are that Apple and Pear trees require as plant-
food the same fertilising ingredients, whatever
the variety. They need nitrogen, 'phosphoric
acid, and potash, and the quantities to be ap-
plied depend less on the variety than upon
the nature of the soil and the age of the trees.

If the orchard is a large one, and closely
planted, the most convenient method of manur-
ing the fruit-trees is to apply the quantity of

manure per acre. For fruit-trees on a medium
soil in fair condition, about 3 cwt. of nitrate
of soda (or 2^ cwt. of sulphate of ammonia),
3 cwt. of muriate of potash, and 7 cwt. to 10 cwt.
of basic slag per acre per annum give the best
results. For smaller orchards or gardens the
quantities used per square yard per annum
would be 1 ounce of nitrate of soda (or 1 ounce
of sulphate of ammonia), 1 ounce of muriate of
potash, and 2^ ounces of basic slag. If the
soil is a heavy clay, the quantity of basic slag
may be increased to 3 ounces per square yard,
and the quantity of muriate of potash reduced
to three-quarters of an ounce. On lighter
soils, the muriate of potash might be in-
creased to, say, li ounces. As to the appli-
cation of the manures, the muriate of potash
and basic slag are mixed together, but only
just before using, and broadcasted in the
autumn or early winter.

If the orchard is under grass the muriate of
potash and basic slag are best applied in No-
vember or early December, and, if possible, har-
rowed in. If, however, the soil under the trees
is grown with other crops which require a tillage
of the soil, then the application of these two
manures may be made up to the end of Janu-
ary. As soon as the sap begins to rise in the
fruit-trees (in February or early March) the
nitrate of soda (or sulphate of ammonia) should
be given as a top dressing. If it is intended to
manure the trees singly it must not be forgotten
that the root system extends over a larger area
than that covered by the overhead branches.
The area dressed should be not only that
covered by the branches of the tree, but also
two yards in addition all round. Although it is
often recommended to dig a pit or hole round
the tree, and to put the manure into this, so as
to get it into immediate contact with the roots, a
good many recent investigations show that it is
not necessary. Some American experiments
even show that it is injurious. All that is neces-
sary is to broadcast the manure over the surface,
and then either harrow it in or stir the soil
lightly with a rake or spade.

It is worth noting that a report has come to
hand from the United States Department of
Agriculture on small fruit and orchard cultiva-
tion in that country, and in this is a strong re-
commendation to use artificial manures, and not
farmyard or stable dung, for such orchards or
fruit plantations. The reason given is that
dung has been found to be a frequent carrier of
noxious weed seeds, and that orchards and small
fruit plantations are kept more free of these and
cost less for cleaning cultivations when arti-
ficials are employed. The dressings recom-
mended, and based on an enormous number of
American experiments, are almost identical with
those which Dr. Wagner has found so successful
in Germany.

NURSERY NOTES.

MR. P. LADDS, SWANLEY.
This well-known market-nursery contains,
upwards of 100 glasshouses, almost all of which
have a length of 200 feet. The object of my
visit was to view the Chrysanthemums, and to
observe the treatment they receive, enabling Mr.
Ladds to produce such beautiful blooms as he
has exhibited in such good style on several
recent occasions. Although the major portion
of these flowers were over, sufficient remained
for my purpose. I found some are grown in
outside beds, and later in the season replanted
in the large Vineries. Others are grown entirely
in pots and finally flowered in 24's (8 inch). No
exceptional treatment is accorded to the plants,
but they are never allowed to suffer from want of
attention. A number of shoots are grown on
each plant, but one flower only is allowed to
develop on each break. On some plants I
counted from 8 to 10 blooms. Some of the
more noticeable varieties included Nagoya ■ (a
/arge batch of this variety made a brilliant
show). Winter Koenigin, an incurved Japanese

- 99

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 1906.

flower of a pretty shade of blush-pink ; Mdme.
Paolo Radaelli, Mdme. P. Rivoire (white), Lady
Roberts (the flowers of this variety were almost
over, but it is worthy of note). White Major
Bonnaffon, a very late white variety, in con-
dition in January; W. H. Lincoln, Lord
Hopetoun, and Princess Victoria. It may be of
interest to note that the first flowers for market
were cut on July 18th, and that a regular supply
has been consigned to Covent Garden each day
the flower market has been open, and this will
continue until well into the present month, mak-
ing a continuous supply for a period of almost
six months of the year. The first blooms sold
readily at 3s. per dozen, and growers such as
Mr. Ladds, who start early and maintain a
regular supply, are enabled to rely upon con-
stant customers and to make profitable prices.

Among subjects of interest other than Chry-
santhemums were several houses filled with large
bushy plants of Genistas. Some of the plants
were already starting into growth, and looked
promising for a profusion of bloom. Callas are
also extensively grown, as is also Asparagus
medioloides, the long trails of the latter being
trained on thin string. The " Smilax " is grown
in rows in boxes with just sufficient room be-
tween to permit of their being cut. Asparagus
plumosus nanus filled several houses. This is
grown in pots, and thread is used for training
the growths. Asparagus Sprengeri is also exten-
sively grown in pots. The pots are suspended
from the roofs of the plant houses. Zonal
Pelargoniums receive special attention, being
grown for the spring-trade. Thousands were
already in 48 size pots. About 50 sorts are
grown, but the bulk consists of a limited num-
ber of these. Snowdrop is the favourite white
variety grown. Paul Crampell (deep scarlet). Hall
Caine (light red), and Henry Jacoby is always
in demand. .King of Denmark still takes the
lead as a salmon-coloured variety ; but Mrs.
Lawrence is also becoming a favourite with
buyers. Raspail is not yet surpassed for
quaUty. Ville de Poitiers (light scarlet), Con-
stance (an old pink variety still grown exten-
sively), Mrs. R. Cannell (single salmon), are
other notable varieties. The Zonal Pelargo-
niums are marketed in well-flowered plants suit-
able for furnishing window boxes and for decora-
tion. Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums are also exten-
sively grown, and while a few new sorts are tried
the stock consists mainly of Chas. Turner, Gali.
lee, and Madame Crousse. Large batches of Mar-
guerites were seen in various stages of growth.
Verbena Miss Willmott receives attention. Mr.
Ladds was the first grower in the market with
this flower last spring, and the first plants for
next spring are already in pots, while in the
propagating house large batches of cuttings of
this variety were seen. Hera, too, I noticed a
large batch of Roses, chiefly of the newer sorts,
including Lady Gay, and Richmond, a new
variety of the Liberty type. Genista cuttings are
here treated differently to those I have grown or
seen elsewhere. They are rooted in pots
suspended from the roof. The pots are filled to
within an inch or so of their tops, and the
.cuttings being almost below the rims do not
dry from the heat below.

In the Chrysanthemum department I found
propagating well advanced for next year's
supply. The culture of Ferns forms an im-
portant feature, and it was interesting to note
from the sown spores upwards through, the
various stages of growth they were all in good
order, and promised well for a regular succes-
sion. The more useful market sorts only are
grown, but these are well grown, and nothing in
the way of starved or stunted stock was seen.

I may conclude by adding that during the
last few years the nursery has been under the
control of Mr. F. W. Ladds (the youngest son
of the late p. Ladds), who manages it for his
mother, and much credit is due to him for the
great improvement that has been made during
his stewardship. A. ficmsley, December.

The Week^s Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W, H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Calanthcs. — Many of the deciduous Calanthes
of the C. vestita section which commenced to
bloom in November have now passed out of
flower, and it will be necessary that the pseudo-
bulbs should have a short season of rest, during
which water must be withheld from them. The
plants should be placed on a shelf in a position
that is free from drip or damp, and close up to
the roof glass, where the full sunlight will
reach them and cause them to become thoroughly
matured and hardened. Keep the plants in an
atmo-phenc temperature of about 60^, and do
not permit white or brown scale insects to infest
the pseudo-bulbs, or they will injure the dor-
mant " breaks." Another good plan is to turn
the plants out of their pots, shake away the
soil, etc., and lay the pseudo-bulbs in a slant-
ing position in open shallow boxes, keeping the
face or front of each pseudo-bulb towards the
light. By this method they require very little
room, and can be easily examined and cleansed
of insect pests. Calanthes of the C. Kegnierii
section which flower in the spring have their
flower spikes well advanced at the present time,
and only a moderate amount of water is needed
at the root till the flowers have expanded, when
water should be gradually withheld. When the
first flowers onen the plants may be removed
from the East Indian house to the Cattleya
house, and if the atmosphere be kept moderately
dry the flowers will fade less quickly after being
cut than they would if left in the warmer tem-
perature.

Catasetums, Cyeiwches, and Mormodes.—
Amongst other Orchids that require a decided
rest are the Catasetums, Cycnoches, and Mor-
modes. The majority of these plants are now
fast losing their leaves, and as they turn yellow
and fall off the plants should be kept quite dry
at the roots. Badly ripened growths will prob-
ably require water occasionally in order to pre-
serve them in a plump condition, but pseudo-
bulbs that have been properly matured will
keep fresh-looking and plump all through the
resting period without needing any water.
Suspend the plants close up to the roof in the
East Indian house in full light. If these
Catasetums and Cycnoches are rested in this
house they retain their roots much longer than
if placed in a cooler temperature, consequently
the pseudo-bulbs remain plump for a greater
length oi time than those whose roots die pre-
rnaturely. The Mormodes prefer a light posi-
tion in the Cattleya house while at rest. Where
a collection of these curious and interesting plants
is grown some of the specimens will have been
in flower for several months past. Even at the
present time the following varieties are in bloom
at Burford: — Catasetum splendens aureum, C.
s. punctatissimum, C. fimbriatum, C. galeritum
pachyglossum, C. Bungerothii, C. albo-roseum,
C. discolor, C. labiatum, C. macrocarpum, C.
intergerrimura, C. bidentatum, and C. ferox ;
also Mormodes buccinator Rolfei, and M.
Warscewiczii.

Odontog!o!sums such as O. Iseve, O. Reichen-
heimii, and O. citrosinum have completed their
growth. The two first named species should be
afforded a sufficient quantity of water only to
keep the roots alive and the pseudo-bulbs
plump, but O. citrosmum requires a long dry
rest ; owing to the absence of moisture the
pseudo-bulbs will shrivel considerably, but this
will not affect the health of the plants, as they
will readily plump again to their normal condi-
tion when the flowering season arrives. The best
position for these Mexican Odontoglossums
while at rest is one near to the roof glass of the
Mexican house.

in their respective positions. Examine the
roots and remove any spent soil, afterwards top
dressing with a compost suitable for the par-
ticular species of plant.

Lilium longiflorum. — Plants which were
potted in autumn should now have an abund-
ance of roots, and therefore with safety could
be placed in an atmospheric temperature of 55"
to 60°. It is a mistake to over-force these
plants in their early stages of growth. Spray
the plants lightly overhead, and be watchful
for green-fly, which, if permitted, would estab-
lish itself very early in the young growths.
.Spray once a week with a weak solution of soft
soap, adding about a teaspoonful of the XL-All
Insecticide. This is an excellent remedy, but
fumigation with XL-All I have found to be
dangerous while the plants are so young, though
it can be applied with good effect when they
are approaching to the flowering stage.

Begonia Gloire de Lorraine. — Plants which have
been flowering for some time in an intermediate
house should now have their old flowering
growths shortened to half their length, and be
removed to an atmospheric temperature of 56^,
keeping the roots rather sparingly supplied with
water until young suckers are seen coming from
the base, when the remaining portion of the
old flowering stems may be further shortened.
Before cutting away the old stems, some of the
best leaves can be taken for the purpose of
propagation, if desirable, and inserted in pans
or boxes in soil of a light, sandy nature. Afford
them a temperature of 65" to 70", and do not
keep the atmosphere very close ; otherwise
damping will take place. About two inches of
stem should be taken with each leaf, and these
when well rooted will produce very strong
plants. I prefer plants which have been raised
from leaves, inasmuch as they are not so per-
sistent in flowering in the growing season, and
they have a more robust habit. It is most im-
portant to get a good batch of plants early in the
season.

Caladiums. — A batch of these should now be
started. The varieties of C. minus erubescens
and C. argyrites are most useful in furnishing
the front of stages, and if hardened a little are
found useful in many forms of decoration. If
placed in a moist atmosphere at a temperature
of 70^, the young growths will soon appear,
when the plants may be shaken out of the old
soil and re-potted, first warming the new soil,
which should consist of good loam, peat, and
leaf mould in equal parts, with some sand and
finely broken crocks to keep the compost open.
Afford plenty of water to the roots as growth
increases.

Sowing Seeds. — Flower seeds should be or-
dered at once, so as to have them for sowing
immediately. Gloxineas, Begonias, and Strep-
tocarpus, raised from early sowings, are always
found useful in the autumn.

Salvias. — Those plants which are indis-
pensable, and which have finished flowering,
should now be pruned back and induced to
break into growth again for the purpose of pro-
viding sufficient clean cuttings.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to F. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Stove and Greenhouse Climbers in Borders. —
If_ these have not been already pruned or
thinned out, all weak and worthless shoots
should now bs removed, retaining only those
\vhich are most vigorous and thoroughly
ripened ; few rather than many will afford best
results. Afterwards see that the shoots to be
retained are thoroughly cleansed from insects
by sponging or washing before replacing them

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKINSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Early Vines in Pots. — In most large estab.
lishments grapes are required as early in the
season as possible, and for this reason pot vines
have to be cultivated. Those wlrich were
started in November will be in various stages
of growth at the present time. Continue to
syringe them when the weather is favourable
until their growths are about two inches in
length, each morning and again early in the
afternoon so that they may become dry again
before night. The atmospheric temperature of
the house should be increased by about 5" at
night, and 10" by day, admitting just a little
air for an hour or two in the day when the
weather is mild. This will strengthen the
shoots very much, but it is necessary to pre-
vent cold draughts at all time's. The rooting
medium should be examined carefully twice
each day and water afforded as soon as it is
necessary, for if the roots become too dry they
will certainly suffer a check. Afford soft water
which has been warmed to the same tempera-
ture as that of the atmosphere in the house, and
use similar water also for syringing purposes.

January 13, 1908]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

At the flowering period the atmospheie of the
houses should be kept a little drier, and the

. temperature at night be maintained as near a*
ppssible at 65". That good old grape Blacl<
Hambro is the gardener's favourite for forc-

. ing purposes, and it is generally a free set-
ter ; at the same time, it is wise to give the

I rods a tap each day when the flowers are open
to aid in distributing the pollen. When the
roots are seen growing near to the top of the pots
apply a moderate top-dressing with good turfy
loam, a little guano and finely broken oyster
shells. The rods should be trained at about i8
inches from the roof glass, and the laterals be
tied down gradually when they have made con-
siderable growth, for if brought down too soon
they are apt to snap off at the base. The laterals
will require to be stopped at the first and second
joint beyond the bunch of Iruit, and the sub-
laterals will need almost daily attention. When
the conditions of the weather are unfavourable
to syringing let the patns and stages be damped
down instead.

Early Permanent Vinery. — This house should
be started, commencing with a temperature at
night of 48"^ to 50^, and 53" to 55^ on dull sun.
less days. Syringe the rods twice each day on
favourable occasions. Examine the border, and
if the soil appears to be at all dry, afford a
copious application of tepid water to thor-

: oughly moisten the border through its entire
depth.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
ban., Leonardslee, Susses.

Pruning. — Continue the work of pruning as
fast as possible in good weather. All 1-iuni
trees will be the better for being pruned at once.
Trees growing against sheltered walls may be
done in rough w'eather, and those in the open
during the warmest part of the day. By a little
skilful management in this way much of the
work of pruning can be done quite comfortably,
and if it is cairied out in this manner it will
be done more efficiently. When pruning i'lum
. trees, do not hesitate to thin out the spurs, as
overcrowding is one of the worst evils in fruit
culture ; but if the trees were carefully pruned
and regulated during summer, they will not re-
quire much pruning at the present time. Keep
tne spurs cut well back, and if these have al-
ready become too long, let every alternate one
be pruned severely, when, if the trees are
healthy, they will afterwards break into growth
in due course.

Tieing or Nailing. — Train the long shoots
straight from the base to the apex, and when
tieing or nailing be careful to leave sufficient
room for the expansion of the shoots. Tne
main branches should be tied with soit-tarred
string, and the more slender branches with good
matting, or be nailed with small narrow shreds
as the case may be. Regulate the main
branches, so that they will be an equal distance
apart all over the tree. Fan training is perhaps

, tue best system to adopt for this fruit tree.
Training Pear Trees. — Pear trees are grown in
various torms, including cordons, and fan-
shaped ana horizontal trained specimens. Cor-
dons can be employed where quick fruiting trees
are required, and if good strong trees are
planted, some returns should be obtained in the
second season. If a wall or fence be less than
(t feet in height, tram the cordon obliquely, as by
so doing a greater length of rod will be secured.
For fences of greater height, cordons may be
trained in a vertical position. In tieing or nail-
ing these, use the same methods as advised for
I'lum trees.

Fan-shaped Trees.— One of the advantages of
fan training is that by this system the upper
portion ot the wall is more quickly covered.
This method is also suitable for the covering
of gable ends of buildings. The branches
should not be placed closer together than 9 to
12 inches, and the middle or centre shoot should
be vertical, while those at the base should be
nearly horizontal.

Tke Horizontal System. — The branches of the

,. tree to be trained 'in this style should be not

: less than three courses of bricks apart— better,
, rather, if four be allowed, and the first branches

', should be 15 inches from the ground level.

\ Great care is necessary in pruning for the first
two or three years, especially when pinching the
shoots in the early summer.

Fruit Room. — Keep this structure well venti-
lated and clean, and the atmosphere as dry as
possible. Examine the fruit carefully very fre-
quently, as at this season many varieties are
at the point of decay. All damaged and de-
caying specimens should be promptly removed.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace tlie Duke of
Portland, VVelbeck Abbey, Notts.

Peas. — AVhile it is too early to recommend
sowing this crop outside, the present is a good
time to make a large sowing indoors. Four-
inch pots are the most useful for the purpose,
using soil that has been stored for some tim.e,
or a very suitable compost would be that ob-
tained from shaking out old Chrysanthemum
" stools." Dibble 6 or 8 seeds deeply in each
pot, and if the soil is in a moist condition
at the time of sowing, no water should be
afforded until germination has taken place. A
cold frame will suit well if the plants are in-
tended for planting outside, but a slightly
warmer atmosphere should be afforded if they
are intended to perfect a crop indoors. Dwarf
growing varieties are the most suitable for this
purpose, Chelsea Gem and Sutton's Green Gem
being two of the best. As a successional batch
use Early Giant, which is a large podded mar.
rovvfat Pea of medium height.

Cauliflowers. — Young seedling plants of these
will soon grow apace, but it is an easy matter
to ruin them by " coddling." Admit plenty of
air to the frame when the weather is suitable.
Sow a small quantity of seeds once a fortnight,
and this will ensure a continuous supply. Se-
lect the small varieties, of which Magnum
Bonura is a splendid type. Plants raised in the
autumn, and stored in frames, will require care.
Avoid keeping them in a close atmosphere, as
mildew would then soon make its appearance
and destroy the plants. Be careful also lest the
plants should become dry at the root, and pre-
mature flowering ensue.

Polatos. — The forcing of this crop must now
be taken in hand, if it is not in hand already.
Ciood crops can be had from pot culture where
frame room is scarce, but frame culture occa-
sions the least trouble, and affords the greatest
return if the room can be spared. The key-
note to success is the use of well-sprouted tubers
that have been carefully prepired for the pur-
pose. W^ell-rotted leaf mould placed on a hot-
bed to the depth of 12 inches, together with
some light soil sifted from the refuse of the
potting bench, are all that is necessary for the
tubers Plant them in the ordinary way, but
afford them plenty of room, as more often than
not the growth becomes drawn through over-
crowding, and a poor crop is the result.
Sharpe's Victor and Ringleader are two ot the
best varieties for cultivation, either in frames
or pots. Give attention to the tubers intended
for the main crop by exposing them to the light
to enable their sprouts to become consolidated
gradually. Keep these as cool as possible, with-
out permitting frost to reach them.

Broad Beans. — Make a sowing of these on
an early border out of doors, but the main sow-
ing should be made next month. Rich soil,
which has been deeply worked, is best for
Beans. The Longpod varieties mature as early
as broad Windsors, but the latter afford the
greatest return as an early crop. A great ad-
vance has lately been made m fixing a green-
seeded type. To secure an early crop of this
vegetable, seeds should now be sown in a few
boxes, with a view to transplanting the seedlings
into frames. The Beans may be expected to be
in a condition for consumption towards the end
of the month of May.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Larl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, G]amor,i:anshire.
The Formal Garden. — As mentioned last week,
the present is the proper time (m view of pre-
paring the stock of the different plants required)
to decide upon the summer arrangements of the
beds in the flower garden The following are
a few simple arrangements which occur to me,
and which could be easily adapted to suit many
styles of bedding. Blue Agapanthus and Salvia
patens, mixed with a groundwork of Sutton's
compact azure Lobelia, is very suitable for a
narrow border. A striking picture could be
made in a design by planting repr:.'!entative

beds of Mrs. Pollock or Mrs. Cox, or
Flower of Spring Pe.argonium, Coleus ver-
schaffeltii, and Iresine Lindeni. A design
composed of a circular bed in centre, with eignt
plainly shaped beds —four small beds and four
larger ones — surrounding it, could be prettily
bedded for autumn effect by arranging it
thus: — In the centre bed Nicotiana sylvtotris
(white) ; in the two small beds on opposite siaes
of the design, that very early-flowering dwarf
Dahlia named Sunset (red) ; in the othar two-
small beds. Calceolaria amplexicaulis Oellow).
Two of the larger beds coula be planted with-
Aster Amellus (mauve), and the remaining two
with the Chinese Aster, Ca'ilistephus hortensis
(mauve). Very eftective and pleasing combina-
tions in, colour can be had by planting beds
with the following in mixture. Flower of
Spring Pelargonium and Penlla nankinensis ;
Henry Jacoby Pelargonium and Calceolaria
amplexicaulis ; Lady Plymouth Pelargonium,
anti any free flowering, blue variety of Viola ;
Perilla nankinensis and a dwart flowering
variety of Canna ; Heliotrope and a pink flow-
ered Pelargonium or a pinK flowered Petunia,
similar to the variety Lord Courtenay ; Blue
Lobelia, and the ordinary red Virginian Stock —
the latter to be sown after the Lobelia is planted.
Carpet Bedding.— The princij>al thing to avoid
is the perpetuation of duplicatea designs. If it
is desirable in certain positions to have beds
in juxta-position to balance and harmonise, it
can be done by a iudicious emplo)'iiient of
colours, without the need of repeating the same
arrangement again and again. A free use should
be made of the softer coloured plants at one's
disposal, in order that the stronger colours shall
not predominate. As " carpet bedding " is too
complicated to attempt to describe without the
help of a plan, it may suffice to enumerate some
of the best plants in their colours suitable to
this system of bedding, h'/ue. — Compact grow,
ing Lobelia of the puraila section, and Kleinia,
repens. Yellow. — Pyrethrum aureum, Alter-
nanthera paronychioides aurea, Lysimachia
nummularia aurea, Mesembryanthemum cordi-
folium variegatuin, and Sedum Lydium. Glau--
cous. — Cotyledon secunda glauca, Sedum glau-
cum, Sempervum calcareuin. Crimson. — Coleus
Verschaffeltii, Amaranthus ruber, Iresine Lin-
denii, and I. Herbestii. Orange red. — Alternan-
thera paronychioids, A. p. major and A. ama-
bilis. White. — Antennaria lomentosa, Sai.to-
lina inana. Cineraria mariti.na, C. compacta,
and Stachys lanata. Carmine. — Alternanthera
amtEiia and A. magnifica. Green. — Mentha
piuegium, Herniaria glabra, Tagetes sign..ta,
Sedum acre, and Sempervivum montanum.

Propagation. — Now is a good time to prepare
for propagation by cuttings and .seed sowing.
A large quantity of light soil, with plenty of
leaf mould might be sifted and placed under
cover to keep it dry, and ready for use. The
soil — especially the leaf mould — usually con-
tains so much undesirable living matter, that
a capital plan is to heat it, previous to storing,
so as to destroy insect life and seeds. With a
sheet of iron, a grating, and a few bricks, a
suitable heating arrangement can easily be im-
provised for this purpose in any open position.
-Boxes, pans, and pots should be prepared and
methodically arranged ready to liand. Ii hot
beds are to be used, and are not already made,
a quantity of fermenting material such as leaves,
and long stable litter must be collected, and
well mixed together prior to the erection of a
frame. Where there is a well-heated pit or a
propagating house, this is not necessary. Cut-
tings of such plants as Alternanthera, Iresine,
named varieties of Lobelia, Tropseolum, Helio-
trope, Calceolaria, Ageratum, and Pelargonium
can now be made. W'ith the exception of the
Pelargonium, the best meth.id is to insert a
number of cuttings of the above-named plants,
plunging them in a frame in the propagating
house in a bottom heat of 75". After affording
water, let the frame be shaded during sun-
shine, keeping the structure closed for about
a week. If Alternanthera, Iresine, and Lobelia
are required in large quantities it is preferable
to make a bed of soil three or four inches in
depth on the hot-bed, in which to insert the cut-
tings. Pelargonium cuttings succeed better if in.
serted singly in small pots, because when subse-
quently shifted into pots of a larger size they
suffer no check, and when required for planting
out are consequently almost equal to plants
that were propagated in the previons autumn.

24

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 190C.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVI?,riSEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
L15HER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,

w.c.

■Letters for Publication, as well as specimens ami plants
fnr naming, should be addiessed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Coinmtmications should be written on one side only of
THK PApr-R, sent as early in tlie week as possible, and duly
signed by the imter. If desired, the signature mill not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. Tlie Editor does not hold himselt
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

■Iliustrations.-r/ii- Editor will be glad to receive andlo select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, /lowers, trees, &c. ; but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

■Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

APPOINTMENTS FORJTHE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Jan. 13 1 5"^!-^^^;^?^°"^'^ '"''' ""'
MONDAY Jan. 15 Lecture at Surveyors' Institute.

(Annual Meeting Brixton, Streat-
"VVEDNESDAY, Jan. 17 \ ham and Clapham Horticultural

i Society.

.Annual Meeting and Election of

( Pensioners of the Gardeners'
3 J Royal Benevolent Institution

I at Simpson's Restaurant, 101,
Strand, London, W.C. 2.45 p.m.

^Linnean Society meet.

THURSDAY, Jan. 18.^

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 3G'7^.
-Actual Temperatures: —

London.— I-Ccrf««rfa>', /n». 10 (6 p.m.) : Mas. 46"; Min.
39'.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— r/ra«rfav, Jan. 11 (10
a.m.): Bar., SOS; Temp., 39°; Weut/ii;^— Fair
and bright.
"Provinces.— Il'frfiifsrfflV, Jan. 10 (5 p.m.) : Max. 45' Isle
of Wight ; Min. Sa° E. Coast of Scotland.

SALES.

■MONDAY NEXT—

i,5Co Roses, Herbaceous and Hardy Plants, Lilmnis,
Gladiolus, Azaleas and Rhododendrons, Border Plants,
&c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, B.C., by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12.

-WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Sale of Roses, Shrubs, Lilies, &c., at Stevens' Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden.

■WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Hardy Border Plants and Bulbs, Herbaceous Plants,
Lilies, Begonias, Gladiolus, Carnations, &c., at 12. 3,000
Standard and * Standard, Dwarf and other Roses at
I and 3. Palms and Plants, Azaleas, Rhododendrons.
Aspidistras, &c., at 5. By Protheroe & Morris, at 67 and
68, Cheapside, E.C.

-WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Cases Japanese Liliums, &c., also Lilyof-the-Valley,
Spirajas, Gladiolus, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G.,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 3.

IFRIDAY NEXT—

Imported and Established Orchids, variety, also choice
Hybrids, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C., by
Protheioe & Morris, at 12.30.

The last part of the " Enumera-
'''•'® tion of all the plants known

'^nora.* f''°'" China proper " and neigh-
bouring countries has been is-
-sued lately by the Linnean Society, together
with a " List of the genera and species dis-
-covered in China since the publication of the
•various parts of the Enumeration," from
1886 to March, 1904.

This undertaking has been on hand for
nearly twenty years, the first part having
been issued on May 20, 1886. The Enumera-
tion occupies the whole of Vol. 23 of the
Journal of the Linnean Society (Botany),
1886-18SS. Vol. 26, published at intervals
between April 30, 1889, and October 21, 1902,
was likewise devoted to it, and now the
36th volume, completing the undertaking,
which has been in progress since 1903, is
brought to an end The list of the names
•of additional genera and species, not included
in the main body of the work, but published
■ctsewhere, occupies no fewer than 79 pages.
These additions are incorporated in the very
•complete index supplied to the present

volume, so that botanists have now at their
disposal a complclc list of the Chinese Flora,
so far as known up to March, 1904, together
with detailed descriptions of the previously
undcscribcd species. Mr. Wilson's later in-
troductions collected for Messrs. James Veitch
and Sons, are thus not included; indeed,
many of them are not yet determined. If
botanists have had to wait, they have got
something which will go far towards com-
pensating them for the delay they have been
exposed to. In the " historical " note Sir
VV. T. Thiselton-Dyer gives, by way of pre-
face, a brief note of the inception and pro-
gress of the work. Mr. F. Blackwell Forbes
began the list and allowed the use of his
collections and notes, but circumstances soon
prevented him from co-operating in the pre-
paration of the catalogue, which was con-
tinued by Mr. Hemsley, with the assistance
of various members of the staff of the Kew
herbarium and others. The index alone will
be of extraordinary value. It contains some
17,000 entries, and is due to the indefatigable
industry of Mr. Daydon Jackson, the general
secretary of the Linnean Society. The won-
derful richness of Dr. Henry's collections in
Western and Central China induced Messrs.
Veitch, of Chelsea, to despatch Mr. E. H.
Wilson to make further botanical explora-
tions, with a view of collecting and introduc-
ing some of the many valuable and beautiful
plants not previously known in our gardens.
Wilson made two journeys, one in 1899 and
the second in 1903. The record of his jour-
neyings is in course of publication in these
columns, and has, as we learn from our
correspondents, excited much attention even
in far-off Queensland. Horticulturists have
also profited largely by the numerous intro-
ductions made by him to the Veitchian nur-
series, many of whicli have been shown at
meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society,
including the lovely Meconopsis, a whole
series of Primulas, numerous ornamental
trees, etc. Several have been described and
figured in our columns, as will be seen from
the record of novelties of the past year now in
course of publication. There are, as we know,
many more to come which will excite the in-
terest of plant-lovers and refute the impression
that the supply of "new plants" is practically
exhausted, and that all that systematic
botanists will have to do in the future
will be to revise and ccMjrdinate the labours
of the past. In particular, we may mention
that many of the recent introductions,
whether of herbaceous plants, of shrubs, or
of trees, will be of great value to lovers of
hardy plants and trees.

The present Enumeration contains, we are
told, the names of some 8,271 species, of
which 4,230 are endemic, or not known to
occur outside the Chinese Empire. The most
moderate e.stimates, therefore, show that the
Chinese Flora consists of not fewer than
12,000 species. The nature of the flora of
Japan and the Eastern Himalaya, Assam,
Burma, and Siberia will thus eventually
be made clearer. Much of the surface
of the country has been denuded of its
forests, but here and there, especially in the
extreme east, Wilson encountered tracts of
virgin forest teeming with new and interest^
ing Conifers and other subjects. Some of
these may even serve to connect the remains
of the still existing- flora with that revealed
to us by the geologist and the student of

fossil plants. The gardener and the lover of
hardy plants will also, as we have said, profit
largely by the discoveries and introductions
of Henry and of Wilson, and will have cause
to appreciate the intrepidity and diligence of
the collectors, and the enterprise of Messrs.
Veitch.

Our Supplementary Illustration. —

Petrea voldbilis is a very old inhabitant of
our stoves, though rarely seen outside botanic
establishments, in spite of the great beauty of its
flowers. It is a twining shrub with opposite,
leathery leaves and conspicuous violet or purple
flowers arranged in rather dense pendulous
racemes. The flowers are remarkable for their
tubular calyx, the five lobes of -which ultimately
become greatly enlarged as growth goes on and
assume a violet colour. The corolla is of a
deeper purple, and looks like a violet surrounded
by the paler sepals. The enlarged sepals are
sometimes spoken of as an epicalyx, but that is
due to a misapprehension. Our illustration was
taken by Mr. Worihington Smith from an un-
usually fine specimen grown in the garden of Sir
Trevor I^awrence, Bart., the President of the
Royal Horticultural Society. Mr. Smith also
represents the unusually large pollen-grains or
microspores. About the same time that this
specimen was received we were favoured by
Sir Daniel Morris with two photographs of a
white variety grown in the Newcastle Plantation,
Barbados, under the name of the" WhiteWreath,"
where it forms a most attractive and beautiful object.
One of these photographs is reproduced in fig. 15.
The Palm-leaves are those of Sabal Palmetto. The
fern is Nephrodium exaltatum. The plant requires
the usual treatment bestowed on stove climbers,
but a watch should be kept for mealy-bug.

Mr. William Marshall. — Mr. W. Marshall
will shortly enter upon his twenty-first year as chair-
man of the Floral Committee of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. In order to celebrate this event,
to show their esteem for Mr. Marshall, and their
high appreciation of the honorary services he has
rendered to horticulture, the members of the Floral
Committee decided on Tuesday last to entertain
him at dinner on a date which has yet to be fixed. A
sub-committee wasappointed, consisting of Messrs.
H. B. May, George Paul, J. F. McLeod, J.
Hudson, and George Gordon (secretary) to arrange
details. It has been decided that the dinner shall
take place at the Hotel Windsor, and that the
price of tickets shall be six shillings each. Anyone
wishing to be present at this interesting function
may apply for particulars to the gentlemen named
above. This compliment to Mr. Marshall has
been thoroughly well deserved.

M. Massart. — We learn from Brussels that
M. J. Massart has been appointed director of the
Institute of Botany at Brussels founded by the late
Prof. Errera, and that he has also succeeded him
as Professor of Botany in the University. The
" Ethological " collections in the Botanic Gardens,
to which we have from time to time alluded, were
under his charge, as also was the extremely novel
and interesting botanic station in the sand hills at
Co.vyd in Flanders, to which we devoted an article
in our volume for 1904, November 19, p. 345.

P/EONIA Delavavi lutea. — The Revue Horti-
cole for January 1 consecrates a coloured plate
and a description of the yellow-flowered Paeony,
known in our gardens as P. lutea. According to
the article in question we are, in future, to speak
of it as a variety of P. Delavayi. This species
was first found on [near] the glacier of Li Kiang,
in Yunnan, at an altitude of 3,500 metres, by the
Abbo Delavay. It now appears that the plant is
very variable in the colour of the foliage and of
the petals. Some of the variations are, in the
article alluded to, described by M. M. Lemoine,
who further say that it blooms in the early part

January 13, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

2i

0

of June, thus succeeding the varieties of the
Moutan Paeonj", but flowering before the ordin-
ary herbaceous Paeonies. Layering or grafting
are recommended as the most successful means
ii propagation. Grafting is carried out in
August under a bell glass.

Botanical Magazine. — The January number
contains coloured illustrations and descriptions
of the following plants: —

Ast'AKAGUS SprENGE&i, Kegel, tab. 8,052. — A
well-known species, which has also been called
A. ternifolius. The berries are here figured.
They are produced very freely, and are globular,
of the size of a small pea, and of a rich crimson
colour.

Cynorchis compaCTA, Heichcnbjcli, tab. 8,053.

Crocus, with pale perianth-segments, having a
central purple stripe. The six stamens, how-
ever, suffice to reveal its lii>eage. It is a native
of Turkestan, and flowered in the Alpine House
at Kew. It was introduced from Kokan by Mr.
C. O. VAN TuBERGEN, of Haarlem.

WlTTMACKIA LINGULATA, ]\les, tab. 8,056. — A

West Indian Bromeliad, with broad, oblong,
abruptly acute, finely and remotely serrulate
leaves, and a loose, much-branched, many-
flowered inflorescence, the individual flowers
being whitish and relativelj' inconspicuous. The
plant figured was grown in the Royal Botanic
Gardens, Glasnevin.

A New Year Number. — We congratulate
the Gardeners' Magazine on the bright and at-

FlG. 15. — PETREA VOLUBILIS, WHITE VARIETY, FLOWERING IN BARBADOS.
(See also Supplementary Illustration and p. 24.

— A terrestrial Orchid from Natal, with solitary
ovate leaves and erect spikes of whitish flowers,
the three-lobed lip being slightly purple-spotted,
and with a short spur. Kew.

OxALis ADENOPHYLLA, Gillies, tab. 8,054. — A
charming little species, with tuberous roots,
tufted habit, palmately divided leaves, and rose-
pink flowers. It is closely allied to O. ennea-
phylla. The plant was collected in Chile by
Mr. Elwes, and by him presented to the Royal
Gardens, Kew. where, for the present, it is
grown in a cold frame, though doubtless it will
prove as hardy as O. enneaphylla.

COLCHICUM CROCIFLORUM, Rigel, tab. 8,055. —
A very pretty but a very deceitful little plant,
for in flower jt has all the appearance of a

tractive New Year number which it offers to 'its
readers. In addition to appropriate letterpress
there is an abundance of pictuies and a calendar
inserted in a pretty coloured plate of Rambling
Roses.

The Ghent Quinquennial. — A provisional
programme for the Ghent (Juinqiiennial to be
held in 1908 has already been published. This
exhibition is the sixty-ninth organised by the
Socicte Koyale d' Agriculture et de Botanique de
Gand, and will be contemporary with the cen-
tenary of the foundation of the Society. The
date proposed is from April 26th to May 3rd,
1908, and all exhibitors wishing to secure space
for products which cannot be included under the
sections as now arranged should make special

application before June, 1906. The programme
contains a preface by the president, the Comte
de iKerchove de Denterghem, intimating that at
the forthcoming exhibition an increased import-
ance will be devoted to the higher branches of
horticulture ; to biology and other scientific
aspects of the subject.

H. G. Moon. — The sixty-eighth volume of the
Garden is dedicated to the memory of the late
Henry George Moon, of whom a good portrait
is given.

The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent In-
stitution.— The Sixty-seventh Annual General
Meeting of the members and subscribers of this
institutionwillbeheldat " Simpson's," 101, Strand,
London, on Thursday, January 18, 190G, at
2.45 p.m., for the purpose of receiving the Report
of the Commitlee and the Accounts of the Institu-
tion (as audited) for the year 1903 ; electing
Officers for the year 1906 ; and for the election of
18 pensioners on the funds. The chair will be
taken byHARRY J. Veitch, Esq., Ip.L.S., Treasurer
and Chairman of Committee, at 2.45 o'clock. The
poll will open at 3 o'clock, and close at 4 o'clock
precisely, after which hour no voting papers can
be received. The voting papers have been issued.
Any subscriber not having received a copy should
communicate with the Secretary, George J.
Ingram, 175, Victoria Street, Westminster.

Jubilee of a Nursery Employee. — The
completion by Mr. L. E. Thomas of 50 years' con-
nection with Messrs. Lane & Sons, Berkhamsted
Nurseries, was celebrated on Friday, January 5,
by a dinner given by the firm at the King's Arms,
Berkhamsted. A company of between 80 and 90
employees and a number of personal friends was
present to testify to the general good feeling to-
wards the guest of the evening.

LiNNEAN Society. — A meeting will be held
on Thursday, January 18, at 8 p.m., when the
following papers will be read: — 1. Mr. A. W.
Allen , The Life-history of Margaritifera Panasesae ;
2. Mr. A. D.Cotton. F.L.S., On some Endophytic
Algae ; 3. Dr. R. Broom, Jacobson's Organ of
Sphenodon. )

Too Late for Our Almanac. — The Harrow
Horticultural Society will hold its annual ex-
hibition on Tuesday, July 3, and the Barnsley
Chrysanthemum Show is provisionally fixed for
November 15 and 16.

Handkerchiefs for the Prince and
Princess of Wales. — The British Cotton-
growing Association, through their President (Sir
Alfred Jones), forwarded to Marlborough House
recently two boxes of handkerchiefs made
from West Indian cotton for their Royal High-
nesses the Prince and Princess of Wales. The
handkerchiefs were made from cotton grown in Bar-
bados and St. Vincent from American Sea Island
seed, which, when manufactured, has a natural
gloss, and is said to be very much superior to
similar cotton grown in the United States. Sir
Alfred Jones has received the following acknow-
ledgment :^

Dear Sir,— I have received to-day the two boxes containing
handkerchiefs made from West Indian cotton, which the
British Cotton-growing Association have been kind enough
to offer for the acceptance of the Prince and Princess of
Wales.

I am directed to convey to you and the members of the
Association the best thanks of their Royal Highnesses for
these specimens of manufactured West Indian cotton.

Their Royal Highnesses are interested to know that the
cotton grown from Sea Island seed is of such superior
quality, and they trust that the efforts of the Association in
other parts of His Majesty's dominions may be as success-
ful as they have been in the West India Islands.

(Sgd.) ARTHUR BIGGE.

Publications Received.— From the Board of Agri-
culture : Leaflets No. 155 : Z-arc/iCaiiAe)-.— (Dasyscypha
calycina) ; No. 156 : Hedgerow Timber. — Farm and Home
Year Book for 1906. Containing articles on live stock
of the farm, useful tables, lists of societies, &c. — Report
of the Botanical and Agricultural Department, Gold
Coast, for 1904. By W. H. Johnson. Two new ex-

26

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 1906.

perimental cotton farms were started, and the interest
taken in Cotton, Rubber, and other crops is increasing,
thus bringing more work upon the staif. — 7 he Animals'
Friend, January. — Annual Report of the New Zealand
Department of Agriculture, 1905. The returns from
the main products — wool, meat, butter, cheese, and
Phormium fibre have been especially good. Grain-
growing, however, is decreasing as it proves less
remunerative than the other industries. Root crops
are increasing. Good work was done at the experi-
mental stations and the biological and horticultural
department was kept busy.

Seed List Received. — We have received a list
of fruits and seeds offered for exchange by the Botanic
Garden of the University of Zurich. Applications
for exchanges should be made before the middle of
February to Dr. HansSchinz, Direktordes botanischen
Gartens u. Museums der Universitat, Zurich, Switzer-
land,

THE FERNERY.

A NEW FORM OF REPRODUCTION IN
FERNS.

As an entirely new form of Fern reproduction
may interest many readers of the Gardeners'
Chronicle, I append the details of my recent
exhibit at the Linnean Society of a plant of
Cystopteris montana which presented such a
phenomenon.

In 1904 a friend sent me a normal plant of
C. montana, and as it was small and the season
advanced, it appeared to perish, but in the subse-
quent spring on turning out the pot I found a
spark of life remaining, rsplanted it, and in time the
plant established itself so tar as to send up two nor-
mal fronds some i inches high. In July on ex-
amining it I perceived a clump of very small, almost
sessile, pinnatifid fronds had formed on the caudex
at the base of one of the normals, and as these were
peculiarly thin and translucent it struck me that
they were aposporous growths, i.e', fronds modified
into a prothalloid form. With this idea I detached
one and layered it. This and the undetached ones
have retained their green and living character
through the winter, i.e., up to the present,
although the normal fronds followed the habit of
the species by dying down at the end of August or
beginning of September, In October, examining
the culture under a lens, I detected two apogamic
bulbils, each situated in the sinus or indentation
which characterised the tips of the pinnatifid sub-
divisions, and at the time of my exhibit both these
were clearly buds showing the incipient circination
of rising fronds, and evidently capable of estab-
lishing themselves. We have here, consequently,
not -merely one, but several, unrecorded features,
viz. : —

1 . — A normal plant yieldingaposporous prothalli ;
all examples so far have been varietal forms.
2. — A new species displaying this character.
3. — A normally deciduous fern producing ever-
green fronds.
4. — Entire fronds of a prothalloid texture, while
so far all examples of apospory have been
either extensions of terminal points on large
fronds or modifications of the soral growths
on such.
I may add that the prothalloid fronds numbered
half-a-dozen and were only about ^ inch long,
with a very short stalk and three or four pinnatifid
pinnx each ending in a blunt indented tip
resembling an incipient prothallus. Several others
have partly risen, and the clump is firmly
attached to the creeping rhizome characteristic
of this Cystopteris. Furthermore, despite the
number of those which have finished growth,
they are all of the same size, displaying no tendency
to successional enlargement as do young indepen-
dent ferns. Subsequently I severed and layered
two more in November, and these are perfectly
healthy, and I have little doubt will follow the
same course as the first, when the growing season
arrives. The culture has been under quite cold
conditions but under glass slips. Chas. T Druerv
V.M.H..F.L.S.

HORTICTTLTURE IN THE
PUNJAB.
A common remark addressed to residents in
India is, " What lovely flowers you must have
in your garden out there ! " and, S3 far as
shrubs and trees suited to the climate go to
make a pleasaunce, there are gardens in Cal-
cutta and Bombay that will compare with any-
thing of the kind in corresponding latitudes.
In many places, more especially where Euro-
pean planters or others are settled — in the
Himalayan or Suralit valleys, for example — in
the Nilgiris, or in Behar, such home favourites
as Roses, Heliotrope, and, where the seasons
permit, Mignonette and other annuals are
grown successfully ; but in North-Western
India, for the most part, the only gardens, as
we understand the word in England, that at-
tain more than a hand-to-mouth existence are
those kept up with aid from the public funds
by organised subscription.

This is due in great part to the fact that the
wealthiest natives of the Punjab, for example,
are only beginning to take a slight interest in
scientific horticulture ; while the Europeans
there are necessarily, in most cases, only birds
of passage. At the same time, the remarkable
extremes of temperature which prevail from
East Persia almost to the borders of Bengal
have to be reckoned with, and are mainly an-
swerable for the rather meagre limits of indige-
nous gardening and fruit-gr.jwing. The hot
winds that sweep the Central Punjab from the
end of April till well on in June wither all but
the toughest forms of subtropical vegetation,
unless water is constantly supplied ; but water
can be got solely from wells that are liable to
fail, or from canals, which, however splendidly
organised, can only give a share to every thirsty
claimant in his turn. Then the rainy season
may occasion floods, or it may fail altogether ;
and the winter, while it brings relief to such
representatives of temperate floras as have
struggled through the vicissitudes of the hot
weather, may usher in a sweeping frost to
annul the toil and care of years in the small
hours of a single morning.

In such a climate, or, to speak more correctly,
such a series of climates, horticulture must be
often costly, commonly precarious, and, for
those practically engaged in it, continually
arduous.

In reviewing the operations of the Lahore
Agri-Horticultural Gardens for the last year,
the "Civil and Military Gazette" observes: —
"An unfavourable season greatly interfered
with successful work last year; the damage
done by the failure of the monsoon and the
shortage of irrigation water in the summer, and
by the unprecedented severity of the weather
in January and February last being most seri-
ous. Nevertheless, the President of the Gar-
dens Committee and the Punjab Government
alike congratulate the superintendent, Mr.
Hemsley, on the progress he has effected under
adverse circumstances, and those who remem-
ber the unfavourable conditions and the state
of the gardens during the year will cordially
re-echo the praise given."

" The frost last winter caused severe damage
to over three thousand fruit-trees, oi which
nearly two thousand were Mangoes. But the
drought and shortage of water were responsible
for much more serious loss, estimated at over
50,000 trees, cuttings, and seedlings, valued at
nearly Rs. 18,000."

The loss entailed on the management by
drought alone, therefore, exceeded the whole
annual grant which the garden receives direct
from the Exchequer, as stated in the same
article; but the difiiculty and discouragement
involved cannot be so readily expressed or esti-
mated.

We must hope that for gardening, as for all
other branches of enterprise in the " Land of the
Five Rivers," a brighter cycle will follow the
period of stress and calamity through which it
has been passing. It is stated that the com-"*
mittee, acting, doubtless, largely on the skilled
advice of the superintendent, have resolved on

certain changes of a practical kind in the con-
duct of their operations. Mangoes will be
reared, as hitherto, for grafts ; but " no further
attempts will be made to grow them for the
market on a large scale."

Grapes, to which the local climate is un-
suitable, will not be tried further and experi-
ments with the Arabian Date have also been
discontinued.

As what may be termed the spontaneous dis-
tribution of the Arabian Date palm shows that
its cultivation cannot be carried on profitably
m India proper except in the extreme south-
west corner of the Punjab and in Sindh, we
must attribute previous efforts to acclimatise it
elsewhere to a laudable reluctance on the part
of our countrymen to acknowledge themselves
beaten. Of the Mango, "after its kind," there
IS plenty grown where it will pay, in private
or in village orchards already, and those who
require superior varieties find it easy nowadays
to import them from Bombay, for example;
but a stock of cuttings for the supply of local
gardens, pubUc and private, cannot be dispensed
with; for it must be remembered that there
are no independent nurseries nearer than Cal-
cutta from which growers can obtain improved
varieties. Throughout the Punjab there are
practically neither nurserymen nor seedsmen, in
spite of the enormous agricultural interests in-
volved ; such seedsman's business as there is
being in the hands of petty market gardenersj
who supply small quantities of vegetable seeds
at intervals, chiefly to the members of their
own community. As a means for disseminating
grafted and improved varieties of sh,ide and
fruit trees, the Lahore garden has an important
function to discharge, and in a country of
largely commercial estates and peasant holdings
It is closely associated with the Agricultural
Department. At the same time, it is pleasant
to note that other aims and uses of a leading
public garden have received due recognition;
and that the recent administration of the garden
has elicited popular as well as official appro-
bation. "Much attention," it is noted, "has
been paid to the improvement of the lawns and
grass borders," and the next step is to screen
the "mounds" with shrubs and plants. Any-
one who may have been fated to acquire a
direct acquaintance with the " mounds " referred
to must agree in the congratulations tendered
to the committee and to the superintendent on
their scheme of improvement and the advances
actually made towards its accomplishment. The
Lahore Jardin des Planies follows a distin-
guished precedent in embracing a zoological de-
partment, and Mr. Hemsley's Kew experiences
have been amplified with the aim of securing
an effective and humane accommodation for a
considerable Fauna also. /. R. W .
[Since the receipt of this communication the
sad intelligence of the death of Mr. Oliver
Hemsley has reached us. See p. 32.— Ed.]

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

• The Handy Book on Pruning. By James
Udale.

Although the author of this little work has
nothing new to teach, the chapters dealing with
the various up-to-date methods now generally
employed are written in a pratical, lucid, and con-
cise manner. To the amateur and inexperienced
it \\\\\ prove useful and instructive. If the illus-
trations had explained by means of diagrams where
to pinch the shoots in summer and where to prune
them in winter, it would have conveyed to the
reader more than is possible by pages of text.

When dealing with Roses the author refers to
individual varieties, and many mistakes may be
avoided in this manner if reference be made to
these chapters. The book includes instructive
advice upon the pruning of flowering trees and
shrubs, as it gives a tabulated number of kinds re-
quiring such treatment at different seasons. '

• Published by W. & H. Smilh, Ltd., Evesham. Price is.

January 13, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

27

NOVELTIES OF 1905.

(Continved from page 4.)
Nurserymen.
Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans and
Bruges, notwithstanding the vast extent of their
undertaking and the varied character of their
productions, still manifest their enterprise in
importing good and new Orchids even now that
the hybridist has introduced a competition bear-
ing hard on the exp«nsively-acquired imports.
If we look back on the number of fine species
which would have been lacking in gardens had
it not been for the enterprise of Messrs. Sander,
it is a source of gratification that their efforts in
that direction have not ceased. Following the fine
Cymbidium Parishii-Sanderae and other first-
class plants of the year before, their 1903 record
includes the beautiful Cymbidium Sanderi, the
new and pretty C. erj'throstylum, which re-
cently flowered at Glasnevin ; Vanda Watsoni,
Coelogyne Lawrenceana, C. speciosa alba, and
some other pretty species and varieties. Their
efforts in raising new hybrids were rewarded
with Cypripedium x Leeanum "J. Gurney
Fowler," and C. X " The Baron " — two mar-
vellous Cypripediums, of which they may well
be proud ; C. X G. G. Whitelegge, C. X tessel-
latum rubens, and a number of other Cypripe-
diums, Cattleya Schroderae " The Baron," C. X
Iris inversa, C. Mossiae "White Lady," C. M.
Reineckiana excelsa, C. Warscewiczii " Our
Queen," Odontoglossum X crispo-Harryanum
" King Edward," O. x amoenum, Sander's
variety ; Warczewiczella discolor atrocoerulea,
and others. Messrs. Sander & Sons were also
" first Ju the field " with Cypripedium Fairrie-
anum.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, continue to develop grand novelties out
of their well-known hybrid Cattleyas, Laelio-
Cattleyas, and Brasso-Cattleyas, and their work
ia Odontoglossums of the last few years begins
to be productive. Out of their hybrid Odonto-
glossums, home-raised O. x excellens and
others have flowered, the two best being the
beautiful O. x Smithii (Rossii rubescens x
Harryano-crispum), and the elegant O. cirrosum
cross named O. X Phoebe. Others which se-
cured awards were Cattleya X Octave Doin,
C. X Lord Rothschild Fairy Queen, a pr©«ty
white-petalled form of a showy and fragrant
hybrid ; C. X Iris His Majesty, perhaps the
richest in colour in its class ; C. x Gerraania
magnifica, Brasso-Cattleya x Digbyano-Trianaei,
Heaton variety ; Laelio-Cattleya x luminosa
Rosita, L.-C. x Issy cuprea, and many others.
Messrs. Charlesworth during 1905 received a
first-class certificate for the rare Cymbidium
Huttoni, and rendered a service to gardeners by
importing a great quantity of the fine Phalae-
Dopsis Rimestadiana, and other showy species
and varieties.

Mr. H. A. Tracy, of Twickenham, secured
awards for the showy Odontoglossum x loo-
christyense, Tracy's variety, and Cypripedium
purpuratum, Tracy's variety. Messrs. Hugh
Low & Co., Enfield, for the beautiful white
Lycaste Skinneri alba magnifica, the handsome
Cattleya Mendeli " Cicero," and the fine rose-
purple Dendrobium Phalaenopsis Thundersley-
«nse. Messrs. James Veitch & Sons showed
the massive and richly-coloured Cattleya x
" King of Spain," fine forms of Odontoglossum
X ardentissimum, and other hybrids ; and other
contributions came from various raisers.

Continental Novelties.
M. Chas. Vuylsteke, of Loochristy, Ghent,
was well first with his grand hybrid Odontoglos-
sums, his O. X Vuylstekeae being a marvellous
production, and his O. X amabile and variety
Ixion, and the handsome O. X Lawrenceanum,
worthy novelties.

M. Peeters, of Brussels, has his hybiid
Odontoglossums perfecting, and O. x Lam-
beauianum, and its variety exquisitura, of his
production, have both been illustrated in the
Gardeners^ Chronicle in 1905. Odontoma x
Lairesseae, of M. Lairesse, is a remarkable
novelty ; and the Marquis de Wavrin (gr. Mr.
de Geest), who has been a frequent exhibitor
in England, has secured awards for several good
things.

The following Novelties and rare Orchids were illustrated
in The Gardeners' Chronicle in 1905 : —

Bulbophyllum Lobbii colossenm, Supp. Sep. 2.
Cattleya Mossise, White Lady, July 1, p. 7.

Cattleya Sohroderaa, The Baron, p. 1, Supp., June 3.

Cymbidium Huttoni, July 22, p. 63.

Cymbidium Gammieanum, 13ec. 16, p. 427.

Cymbidium rhodocheilum, Supp., June 17.

Cymbidium Sanderi, Feb. 25, p. 115.

Cypripedium debile, Dec. 23, p. 442.

Cypripedium Fairrieanum, Aug. 26, p. 168.

Cypripedium Gratrixianum, Feb. 4, p. 77.

Cypripedium x Haywoodianum, Apr. 1, p. 195.

Cypripedium x Leeanum J. Gurney Fowler, Supp. Feb. 11.

Cypripedium X The Baron, Dec. 9, p. 405.

Dendrobium parcum. May 20, p. 314.

Dendrobium tritiorum, Jan. 7, p. 15.

Lissochilus purpuratus. May 13, p. 290.

Odontoglossum x amabile, " Ision," Supp., p. 2, June 3.

Odontoglossum x crispo-Harryanum, " King Edward,"
May C, p. 276.

Odontoglossum crispum, Raymond Crawshay, June 17,
p. 375.

Odontoglossum crispum " Solum," May 27, p. 322.

Odontoglossum x Lambeauianum, Nov. 4, p. 324.

Odontoglossum x Lambeauianum exquisitum, Dec. 23,
p. 434.

Odontoglossum x Lawrenceanum, Apr. 1, p. 197.

Odontoglossum x Smithii, Dec. 16, p. 427.

Odontoglossum X Thompsonianum, May 6, p. 2S5.

Odontoglossum X venustulum, July 1, p. 2.

Odontoglossum X Vuylstekea:, Nov. 25, p. 379.

Odontoglossom X Wiganianum, May 6, p. 274.

Odontonia X Lairesseae, July 1, p. 2.

Oncidium corynephorum, Nov. 1, p. 340.

Oncidium robuslissinum, July 15, p. 45.

Phalajnopsis (Chariesworth's), May 4, p. 131.

Phatonopsis Schilleriana, Supp., March 11.

Sophro-Caltleya X Doris, Dec. 9, p. 412.

Stanhopea Wolteriana, Aug. 6, p. 102.

Vanda Sanderiana, ChilUngham variety, Dec. 23, p. 438.

Vanda Watsoni, Feb. 25, p. 123.

[To be c»ntitwed.)

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.
WA-SHAN TO FULIN.
(Concluded from page 13.)
July 7rH.— We left our inn at 5.45 a.m. ;
mists were falling and the outlook was verj-
dreary. We followed an up-and-down path,
which skirts, ribbon-like, the side of the moun-
tain and reached Malie-Hsao, altitude 7,700
feet. We continued to ascend and descend,
and eventually made a precipitous descent to
a torrent, and rested at a house at an alti-
tude of 5,Soo feet. Before we began the descent
small bushes of the Davidia were common.
This tree doubtless at one time formed a fair
percentage of the forest flora. The descent was
through dense scrub and coarse herbs. Amongst
the latter Astilbe grandis was abundant.
Hydrangea Davidii was also common. Leaving
our resting place we continued to descend, and
eventually we crossed a broad torrent and as-
cended a few hundred feet to the village of
Malie at an altitude of 5,200 feet ; ten miles
from Tsai-erh-di. Just before .crossing the tor-
rent I discovered a Pine new to me (P. yun-
nanensis)-see p. 227, Sept. 23, 1905. In the bed of
the stream Watercress was very abundant. On
the stone walls here I collected a new Davallia,
and near the bed of the stream Leycesteria for-
mosa for the first time since leaving Yunnan.

This valley enjoys a warmer temperature than
its altitude should warrant. This is evidenced
by. the flora. Trachycarpus excelsa, Phyllos-
tachys mitis, Crataegus pyracantha, Alnus nepa-

lensis, and the Loquat were quite common.
Near the village we passed a grove composed
entirely of Rhus semialata and R. hypoleuca,
with an occasional bush of Clerodendron tricho-
tomum ; Panax ricinifolium also occurs here.
Malie is quite a large village, and the people
were, as usual, very filthy and inconveniently
curious.

We left here at 11 a.m., glad to escape into
the open country again. Rice is cultivated just
outside the village. Ascending a hundred feet
or so we reached the top of a ridge and got
a magnificent view of the valley around Fulin,
with the Tung river and two large tributary
streams. The scene is one of those unexpected
ones that constantly surprise the traveller in
China. The mountain-slope was a mass of
green of Rice and Maize, with thousands of
small trees of Ligustrum lucidum around the
fields, all in full flower. This mountain side is
well irrigated by means of a conduit, which
conducts the water from a torrent. This water
turns numerous horizontal water-mills in its
course, and afterwards branches off in many
channels, irrigating the rice fields. After being
shut up amongst rugged mountains for several
days we were able to appreciate a valley scene
once more. From this ridge the town of Fulin
looked scarcely twelve miles away, but it proved
a long twelve ere we arrived there.

The descent, at first steep, became more
gradual till we approached the first large tribu-
tary stream, where it was very precipitous. In
the descent w© met many coolies carrying
opium from the Chien-chang Valley to Omi
Hsien. With them were several dealers all
armed with old tower muskets, pistols, swords,
and knives of various designs. They looked
more like brigands than peaceful traders.

On the Ligustrum tree was plenty of white
wax, looking just as good as that on the Fraxi-
nus around Mount Omi. Indeed, this mountain
side reminded one of that fertile region, and
compares favourably with it. In the descent I
gathered Lilum Bakerianum, but it was not com.
mon.

Crossing the broad stony stream by means
of several plank bridges, we rested at a small
village, altitude 2,800 feet. Indigo (Strobilan-
thes flaccidifolius) is sparingly cultivated here.
After a steep ascent from this village, we
crossed the ridge (altitude 3,500 feet), which
separated us from the valley of Fulin. In this
ascent, to my great delight, I gathered Scolo-
pendrium Delavayi for the first time since leav-
ing Yunnan in iHtjg.

Descending from this ridge by a precipitous
path we reached the stonv bed of a broad and
nearly dry torrent, and in a little time arrived
at the town of Fulin, altitude 2,150 feet, a large
and populous place noted for its fine wheaten
flour. Dogs here were more numerous and
ferocious than anywhere I have been. My
coolies, armed with sticks, with difficulty kept
them from tearing my poor dog to pieces. My
dog excited even more curiosity than I did; to-
gether we appeared to amuse and astonish the
natives.

We found lodgings in a large and comfort-
able inn, quite away from the gaping crowd.
Soon after our arrival two men came and called,
bringing cards. On enquiring their pleasure, I
found they were beggars, and wanted me to as-
sist them with money. On refusing they be-
came insolent and demanded it in the name of
the Custom. I sent my card to the military offi-
cial complaining. He came round immediately,
bringing with him a dozen soldiers. He was in
a fright, and after apologising and explaining
at great length, offered to arrest and punish
them if I so willed. I told him I did not wish
the men to be punished, provided they did not

28

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 1906.

pester me any more. After much talk, the
affair was settled amicably, and the official, his
men, and the crowd went away and all was
quiet once more. I think the explanation of
this unusual affair is that these two men were
" undesirables " stranded here, and the inhabi-
tants were anxious to get rid of them.

My collections grew apace, and it took all
hands three hours changing papers. Travelling
2o miles a day as we had been doing,
and collecting every day, though very in-
teresting, is exceptionally hard work. This
day was very interesting. It is not every day
we find a new Pinus. In addition to those al-
ready mentioned, the following were the most
interesting plants noted to-day: — Berberis acu-
minata, Taxus baccata, Fraxinus platypoda,
Halesia hispida Chelidonium Franchetianum,
Sapindus Mukorossi, Pieris sp., Acer sp., Hy-
drangea pubescens, Astilbe chinensis, and
Cedrela sinensis. E. H. Wilson.
(To be cotitinued.)

COLONIAL NOTE.

GRENADA.
Mr. W. E. Broadway, the late Curator of the
Botanic Station, has started a large nursery of
economic and ornamental plants, and is prepared
to accept orders for strong, healthy plants to be
delivered early in 1906, Among his list of economic
plants we note the grafted Ceylon Mango, which is
generally recognised as the best of the imported
mangoes. We hope Mr. Broadway will be success-
ful in hds venture.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Cross-Fertilisation of Apples. — I have
read with interest Mr. E. H. Bowers' notes on
this subject in your last issue, and certainly the
diagrams given would go far to prove the parent-
age of " AUington Pippin," though I fear there
are no facts to substantiate the theory. Mr.
Bowers gives the parentage, and even the seed
parent, but I am at a loss to know from whence he
obtained the information. In 1894 I paid a visit
to Messrs. W. & J. Brown's nursery at Stamford,
and there found this Apple growing and fruiting
well. The foreman asked my advice as to the desir-
ability of sending fruit up to the Royal Horticul-
tural Society for certificate, and I strongly advised
him to do so, the result being that it obtained a
first class certificate under the name of "South
Lincoln Beauty." I asked the foreman its history,
which was as follows. The late Mr. Thomas
Laxton raised a large number of seedling Apples,
and after his death a number of these were
sold by auction ; some varieties of which there
were a stock were sold in their entirety, and
others were put in bundles and sold without any
names or anything to identify them. A gentleman
residing in Stamford bought one of these bundles
and planted the trees in his garden. Messrs.
Brown's foreman subsequently pruned this gentle-
man's trees for him, and being taken with the
appearance of this particular Apple, and having
seen the fruit, begged the prunings and worked
them in Messrs. Brown's nursery, his employers
knowing nothing of this until the tree fruited, when
he showed them to Mr. W. Brown. I think I ian
trust my memory upon these points, as I am pretty
keen upon these matters, and I fully intended to
purchase the stock, but as we were just then re-
mo\'ing our nurseries we had not much oppor-
tunity of taking up a new variety, and Mr. Bun-
yard made a better offer for it, which was
accepted, and the name was subsequently changed
tn •■AUington Pippin." The Apple will be no
better or worse whatever its parentage, but those
who look at these matters from a scientific point
of view will like to make sure of their facts before
thev build upon them. I may say that I am often
dubious upon the question of parentage, because I
have investigated cases where the parentage given

has been pure guess-work. Take for instance
"Newton Wonder," which has scores of times
been said to be a cross between Dumelow's Seed-
ling and Blenheim Pippin. The man I bought it
from told me he found it growing in the garden
of the house when he went to live there, and that
it was a chance seedling ; subsequently a parentage
was invented for it. The fact is that in the years
gone by there were very few people who knew
how to cross an Apple, and still fewer who kept
any record of their crossing. Mr. Laxton most
undoubtedly did both, but from what I have stated
I don't think that any record kept would apply to
AUington Pippin. A. H. Pearson, Lowdluun.

The Hardiness of Lord Suffield Apple

(see December 30, 1905, p. 457; January 6,
p. 15).— AU Apples of the Codlin group,
to which the variety Lord SufSeld belongs, ex-
pand their leaf-buds and develop their leaves at
the time of flowering, and, as generally there are
only two or three blossoms to be found upon
each cluster, they are sheltered by the foliage,
and thus protected against frost. As regards
the other varieties enumerated, a good deal of
the crop is often lost as a result of the pruning.
1 have never seen the trees at Belvoir Castle
Gardens, Grantham, but I have been into a large
ntmiber of Kitchen and Fruit gardens, and, speak-
ing generally, have invariably found the pyramid
and bush trees of all varieties pruned in the
same fashion and form, regardless of their habit,
constitution, or fruiting qualities. I am afraid
a good deal of the pruning is done by copy
from Mr. So-and-So's garden more than from
practical experience. Many trees I have seen
appear as " pollard " trees. I have seen un-
pruned bush trees last year (1905) in this
locality of Lane's Prince Albert, Worcester
Pearmain, Cox's Orange Pippin, and others,
bearing good crops. I would recommend Mr.
Divers, if he has not already pruned his pyra-
mids, and he possesses two or more trees of a
variety, to leave on© unpruned this year ;
simply cut away unsightly portions, or a branch
which comes in the way of another crop or the
garden path, and watch the result. To cut away
all the terminal branches or growth made in
one season is wrong. Nature provides that the
Apple tree should make these terminal growths,
which burst into leaf about the time of flower-
ing, and these twigs of greenery make, so to
speak, " break-frosts " against the trusses of
bloom, and thus save the crop from destruction.
When all the wood is cut away, and the branch
is become a regular pollard, exposing the
flowers to all dangers from frost or rains, it is
little wonder the crop is lost. Of course where
an abundance of young wood has been made, I
would recommend shortening back, but not
close down to near the base of the growth.
Dealing with the varieties named, a knowledge
of the character of the particular Apple is
necessary to ensure success. Red Bietigheimer,
for example (and I could name many others), if a
crop is to be looked for, and the trees are
worked on the paradise stock, should be lifted
and replanted every two years. If this were
done many varieties would produce more fruit
than they do under present conditions. Mr.
Divers has stated that his trees of Bess Pool
have cropped well. I know of other late
flowering varieties, including Court pendu plat,
King of Tompkins', County, that yielded good
crops in 1905. From appearances the earth has
shifted on its axis, and thrown our seasons as
they were by report 50 years ago, two
months behind. We get December weather
in February, frosts in May and June as in
1905. If our seasons are thus to become later
year by year, in a few years what is to
become of the fruit-growing industry in this
country? I believe that a stock which will come
into leaf later in spring than the Paradise or the
Crab is required in order to retard the flowering
season of the Apple. I have looked for such
stock for years past in beds of seedlings, and
have found a few, but the process is slow and
no useful results have been obtained. I would,
therefore, use the late flowering varieties, Bess
Pool, Court pendu plat, for budding on the
Paradise or Crab stocks, and afterwards graft
the desired variety, say Cox's Orange Pippin
upon Court pendu plat. For a culinary Apple
I would choose a cooking Apple as the inter-
mediary agent, and dessert kinds in the same
way. i believe the late varieties would then
retard the earlier flowering varieties. To obtain

standards I would bud my selections on to the
agent in order to run up clean straight stems,
for grafting, I find, throws the subject more
quickly into fruit. For espaliers, cordons, and
pyramids, grafting on to the agent saves time in
reaping a crop. Jotm Smith, care of Messrs.
Keynes, Williams &■ Co., The Nurseries, Salis-
bury.

— I have found that Lord Sufheld Apple is a
tender variety and requires a fertile soil and
sheltered situation. Lord Grosvenor is recom-
mended in place of it for that reason. Apple
blossoms escape frost in May when protected
by the foliage. This is especially the case where,
as with my trees, hard pruning is avoided. Nearly
all my Lord Suffield and many other varieties of
Apple last year were borne on the e.\tremities of
shoots that naturally drooped and sheltered the
blossoms with tufts of leaves. In many instances
the Apples were in clusters of three fruits and had
to be supported. That neglected Apple " Smart's
Prince Arthur ' ' was quite ornamental with its
pendent shoots laden with ruddy fruits. I found
the same thing occurred with ' ' Pitmaston Duchess
Pear, of which I had several trees laden with fine
fruits equal to any that I saw exhibited. These
also had to be supported and in some cases thinned.
My advice is to cut back some shoots for furnishing
wood and leaves only and to leave others unpruned
for bearing fruit. W. RoiipcU, Harvey Lodge.
Roupell Park, S. W.

Sowing Seeds of Pentstemon. — When for
particular purposes decided colours are required
of this profuse blooming and invaluable plant, it
is essential that cuttings should be taken of
the desired varieties in the autumn. Where,
however, they are only wanted in mixed masses
in borders with other flowers or in beds by
themselves much may be said for propagation
by seeds There are such excellent strains,
that a fine display of blooms can be depended
upon. The strain of selected " pink shades "
offered by one or two firms is particularly good,
as in it the less pleasing purple colour is nearly
if not entirely eliminated. To obtain plants
for flowering at the end of June and beginning of
July and continue blooming until October, seed
must be sown in heat at once. In a few weeks'
time the seedlings will be fit to be pricked out
into boxes, in which, after ihey have made
sturdy growth they can be placed in a cold
frame to harden off, and by April they will be
ready for planting out. Hugh A. Pettigrcw.

Weather in North Cornv\/all. — While
London commenced the New Year with hard frost
we in North Cornwall suffered from a deluge of
rain. On Monday '83 inch fell, and on Tuesday
over 1|- inches (1'79) fell. This is the heaviest 24
hours' rainfall of which I have any record. The
previous record rainfall was 1'73 inches on
November 28, 1902. During the first six days of
this year our rainfall amounted to 4'35 inches.
This will go far towards making up the deficit of
9 inches on last year's rainfall. A. C. Bartlett,
Pencarrow Gardens, Cornwall.

Pruning. — The pruning of Pear trees, etc.,
may be proceeded with in suitable weather. The
fruit buds can be very easily distinguished, and
may be thinned out if too numerous. Some
varieties have the peculiarity of fruiting on the
extreme end of the shoot, and in this case the
operator should prune accordingly. Comte de
Lamy (one of the best Pears) is one of these.
The wood buds or spurs should be cut back
to two eyes, as too many shoots on a tree in a
limited space is a disadvantage. Long, ugly spurs
may be cut right back, half of them one season,
and the remaining half the next. IK. A. Cook.

East Lothian Stock. — No plan for a flower
garden would be complete without a place
being assigned to this lovely strain of inter-
mediate stock. It is so ornamental during the
summer and autum.n months, and can be used
either in the formal design or in the herbaceous
borders, where its colours can be easily
arranged. Last year I had a formal garden
entirely filled with this delightful plant, and the
effect elicited admiration from all who saw it.
For preference, the rose and the crimson
coloured are best for massing, as they aie more
profuse and showy in their flowering. The
purple one is inclined to be shy in blooming.
Seeds should be sown now so as to raise early
plants and obtain a lengthened flowering period.
Sow the seeds thinly in boxes and place them in
a moderate degree of heat, and when the young

January 13, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

29

plants are large enough prick them out into fresh
boxes, filled with a light and rich compost.
When they again become crowded, pot them up
into large four-inch pots, in which as soon as
they become established they can be placed in
shallow cold frames. By April they will have
become strong, sturdy, well-rooted plants, fit for
planting out in the open ground without fear of
suffering check. Treated thus, these stocks will
give a display of fiower from June until Sep-
temper. Hugh A.Feiiignw.

Hanging Baskets. — Where there has been a
demand for material for table decorations, trac-
ery, etc., baskets containing Asparagus Spren-
gerii, A. deflexus, and other varieties will have
been very much reduced by cutting. The pre-
sent is a suitable time to re-basket any that need
it, and if there is a necessity to increase the
stock, this can now be done by division. If
this is" done now, the baskets will become well
furnished with young growing shoots early in
the season. Owing to the large demand for
cut growths of A. Sprengeri, it is advisable to
sow a few ripe seeds each year. Plants that
were raised from seeds sown last year, if placed
in baskets, will provide very useful sprays
for cutting next autumn and winter. The
baskets should be provided with a lining of
moss. The rooting medium should be of turfy
loam, leaf mould, and peat in equal portions,
with a liberal addition of coarse sand. Afford
manure water or other stimulants liberally,
when the plants are growing freely. An atmo-
spheric temperature of 65" will cause the plants
to grow freely, but when growth is finished
much less heat w'ill suffice. B. Cromwell.

The Late Harrison Weir. — The death of
Mr. Harrison Weir at the ripe age of 82 years
is a loss to those of us who have known him
well for a quarter of a century and upwards.
Our friend was an enthusiasiic amateur gar-
dener and a lover of what are termed " florists'
flowers," such as the Auricula, Carnation, etc.,
and he was frequently to be met with at the fort-
nightly meetings of the Royal Horticultural
Society until quite recent years. At his pro-
fession as an artist he obtained world-wide
fame for his inimitable drawings of natural his-
tory, birds, and poultry. As early as 184.3 he
exhibited an oil painting of a wild duck, and
subsequently he exhibited at the Royal Academy
and the Society of British Artists. He must
have made thousands of drawings in black and
white and many in colours, for publication in
books. He was a member of the staff of the
Illustrated London News from its inception, and
was the only survivor of the original artists.
His last, and certainly his greatest, work was
" Our Poultry and all about them." This
monumental work occupied him for the best
part of twenty years. The letterpress, compris-
ing 600,000 words, was written by him ; he made
nearly all the 350 black and white drawings and
the 37 coloured plates. He was the originator
of the first cat show, and a good judge of poul-
try and pigeons. He was a strenuous worker,
and his relaxation was gardening. Mr. Weir
was at one time a member of the Fruit Com-
mittee of R.H. Society, and had a good know-
ledge of all hardy fruits. His birthday was
May 2, 1824, but I sometimes sent him a few
Auricula plants in April as a reminder of his
birthday. These were great favourites, and he
especially admired the " Fancy " varieties ; they
appealed most strongly to his artistic eye. The
Alpine varieties he planted in his garden. I
have one of his letters before me which is
dated May, 1903, thanking me for a few plants.
He wrote: — "You have added much joy to the
remnant of my life. How beautiful they are —
sweet, pleasurable, and delightful. . . They
are a new joy to the garden. . . My garden
is coming on bravely, and my heart swells with
a joy the world knows not of." His last letter
to me was in October, 1904. I will make one
short extract. " It is not the first time by many
that you have gladdened my heart by the gift
of beauty made bv nature with your skill and
help. I think we all might do a little more than
we do to pleasure each other." I possess sev-
eral of his beautiful drawings : kind gifts to me,
which I greatly value. My friend was a true
lover of the garden and of everything beautiful
in nature. He has finished his life's work. His
work was that of an earnest and true man, and
we can truly say of him : " Well done, good and
faithful servant." '/■ Douglas

SOCISTIESi

EOYAL HORTICULTUEAL.

January 9. — The first meeting of the Committees in
1906 was hel^ on Tuesday last in the Royal Horticul-
tural Hall, Westminster. Some of the Committees were
unusually well attended. The display of exhibits was
satisfactory for a mid-winter exhibition, and Orchids
thus early in the year claimed a large share of the
space on the tables and of the interest of visitors.

The Floral Committee awarded medals to excellent
groups of Cyclamens in pots, also of forced plants of
Rhododendron moUe, Hippeastruras, cut flowers of
Carnations, and many other species of flowering plants,
and others, but no award was recommended to any
novelty shown.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee recommended
a First Class Certificate to the variety of Orange which
the Floral Committee honoured at the previous meeting,
and also awarded several medals to collections of
fruit. A vote of condolence was sent by this Committee
to the widow of the late Harrison Weir, Mr. Weir
having been at one time a member.

The Orchid Committee recommended one First Class
Certificate, one Botanical Certificate, and five Awards
of Merit to novelties, and on this occasion the new
scheme under which Diplomas will be awarded for par-
ticular plants came into operation, the plants for the
day being Laelia anreps and Calanthes.

There was no lecture delivered at this meeting.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Fs [., chairman, and Messrs.
C. T. Drucry, H. B. Ma v. W. Cuthbertson, Geo.
Nicholson, Jas. Walker, G. Reuthe. C. J. Salter, W. J.
James, E. Motyneux, J. F. McLeod, W. Howe, R. W,
Wallace, J. Jennings, C. Blick, H. J. Cutbush, Geo.
Gordon, Chas, Dixon. C. E. Pearson, C. E. Shea»
E. H. Jenkins, W. J. James, R. Hooper Pearson. Geo.
Paul, J. Green. E. Mawley, Jas. Hudson, J. W. Barr,
and E. T. Cook.

The Rev. H. Buckston, Sutton Hall, Etwall, Derby
fgr. Mr. A. Shambrook) exhibited a large array of
Cyclamen plants of exceptional merit. Among the ex-
tensive collection white-flowering varieties predominated,
but flowers of red, salmon, pink, and other shades
were included, and all alike were sturdy in growth,
clean in appearance, and of floriferous habit. (Silver
Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co.. Cush Hill Park Nurseries,
F.nfield, staged a group of Cyclamen of the variety
" Low's Salmon," a strain of very pleasing shade
of colour and of neat, compact habit ; also a number
of Cyclamen flowers in vases, including examples with
fimbriated and others with papillose petals. In addi-
tion to the Cyclamen, Messrs. Low contributed some
excellent vases of Carnations. (Bronze Flora Medal.)

Mr. K. Drost, Kew Nurseries, Richmond, Surrey,
put up a showy group of forced flowering plants. The
display was arranged in a semi-circular manner, the
centre being occupied by a grand batch of Hip-
pcastrums (.\maryHis), which, although flowering so early
in the season, were shown remarkably well, some of
the inflorescences carrying as many as four, five, and ''
even si.^ flowers. Azalea mollis found a place in
the foreground, which was completed by a band
of Tulips. On either flank were hanks of Lilac,
flowering profusely, and rosettes of Tulips, the whole
being intermixed with suitable foliage plants. , and >
having as a background tall specimen Palms, (Silver
Gilt Eanksian Medal.)

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, l^pper Ed- '
monton. displayed a batch of rare and interesting Ferns,
all of which were well grown and staged with good taste.
We noticed Asplenium scandens, A. elegantulum, Dor>-op-
teris nobilis, Drynaria quercifolia, Polypodium irioides ■
ramo-cristata, etc. (Silver Flora Medal.) ■ . / =

Messrs. W. Paul & Son. Waltham Cros^, Herts, slrowed
nice specimen plants of Camellias, and' a' few ba^ets of
cut flowers of the same. A feature was a number- of well- '
trained examples of the old alba plena,, still one of !the
best of the double white flowering ^'pe. Single varieties
were also prominent, and among these Vesta (red),
Minerva (salmon pink), Jupiter, (a Urge flower, ,with a
prominent ring of stamens, se^ off to advantage against
the large red petals) were noticed., Other good things
were Lady Hume's Blush and Reine des Fleurs, the latter
almost unsurpassable for freedom of growth and flower-
ing. (Silver Flora Medal,) , ' ^ '

Lord Aldenham, Alde^nhaov House, Elstree fgr. Mr.
E. Beckett), staged a miscellaneous collection of flowering
plants, including Begonias, Mignonette, Cyclamen, Car-
nations, Cypripediums, Euphorbfa Jacquini^eflora, and a
batch of seedling Streptocarpi, the progeny of the variety
Royal Blue. The seedling Streptocarpi included many
promising plants; some had flowers of the darkest shade
of blue, and others were of a lighter colour, while the
range of form and size was alm'ost as wide as that' of
the shade of colouring. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. H Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent, exhibited
a number of sturdily-grown -plants of Primulas, the
colour and size of the "pips" indicated the excellence
of the strain-

Messrs. James Veitch & Son's, King's Road, Chelsea,
put up a large batch of Coleus thrysoideus, whose talU
pyramidal spikes of blue flowers were very noticeable.
Intermingled in the group were plants of Jacobinia
coccinea, and at either end were specimens of the Witch-
hazel — Hamamelis arborea. Messrs. Veitch also showed
a Begonia, named Copper King, the bronzy-coloured
flowers being responsible for the name, and plants of the
Japanese long-fruited Orange. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries, Richmond,
Surrey, showed berried and ornamental foliage plants.
Erica codonodes. Daphne indica rubra, Garrya elliptica,
Nerium splendens variegatura, &c.

Messrs. John Waikker & Sons, Bagshot, Surrey,
staged a number of ornamental Conifers, such as Cedrus
atlantica glauca, Juniperus japonica aurea, Cuprcssus
Lawsoniana erecta viridis, Irish Yews (Taxus baccata
hibernica), gold and silver forms of Juniperus Sabi-
na, Sac.

Messrs. John Peed & Sons, West Norwood, London,
S.E., showed an extensive collection of Alpine and rock
garden plants. We noticed Primula denticulata, Lachcn-
alia pendula, and coloured Primroses in flower. (Bronze
Banksian Medal.)

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutsford, Cheshire, i dis-
played a small collection of Alpine plants — coloured
Primroses, Chiistroas Roses, Hepaticas, Gentiana ac^ylis,
&c.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent' G^arden,
W.C, had bowls containing Hellebores and Vases of
Iris unguicularis.

Messrs. Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Feltham, Middlesex,
showed several species of bulbous Irises, I. TiTslnoides,
I. alata, &c., a batch of Primula obconica, ' plants of
Cheiranthus kewensis, pans of Alpine plants, a/i'd 'winter-
flowering Carnations. (Bronze Banksian 'Medal. J "

Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farntiam," Surrey, dis-
played a charming group of cut flowers of Carnations
of popular and choice varieties. A few pot plants were
included in the display. (Silver Flora' Medal.)

Leopold de Rothschild, Esq., GunnersWry ' Park,
Acton (gr. Mr. George Reynolds), exhibited three bush-
trained plants of Jasminunj primulinum that were per-
fect pictures of beauty, the lortg, |:(^acef'ul,'arching' shoots
being crowded with their beautiful 'Prhhro^e-like flbWers.
(Silver Flora Medal.) ".'..--

H. J. Elwes, Esq., Colesboiirne, (Jhetteriliam, presented
two interesting plants — Veltheimia glauca, with X-'acIien-
alia-Uke inflorescences,' arid' the curious Massonia pustu-
lata, a Liliaceous plant; with broad, *i?ustulate adpressed
leaves, and a rosette of flowers- arising fromthe «planl's
centre. (See B<y^. Magt^i. 642.) ■ ...- .. »

Sir. Ed. LdDER, b4W.,' teonjfrdslee, lIoYsh'iiiii' (^ir'.' iNIr.
W. A. Cook), shdived'ateW^rkable 'plant' of Saffacenia
purpurea, j^'st as 'lifted from the open gro'und, alid b^ing
about 2 fei^t atr6'sfi.- It Is rarely such a'spfeclineti'as'Sir
Edward LObES's^I^ht c'aij'be seen in the'iipfen''aiir, knd
it was awarded a- Silver Banksian 'Medal, with a Cultural
Commendation .19, the cuUivator. ._, .

Mr.' jAWESi t OBrien, Marian, Harrow+on-the-Hill,
showed a. dozen inflorescentes, f/oni ,a, plantoii Cyrtan-
thus lutescens* the plant, having, .beea continuously, in
flower for a. period of six weeks.;. .'_j,; : ■ _' .. , .. ...

.' . ■ I ', J Orchid tjommittee; „■.,.,,',;.";]'.

. ' Ptestnt u }. .GKizncy Fowler, Jisq-, in' thd-,chair,. and
Messrs. J^s., .O'Brien (Hon.; Sec.;, Di.^. Jiaas Gold-
.fichmidt. (invited), De B. Cra^shay, ,N.. C- Cgokspn, J-
Douglas, F. Weilesley, W, .Cobb, ,R, .G^. Tbwaites,
W. Hv Wbite„ F^ W. Ashton, G. p. Moore, H, Ballan-
tinc. A.,A. McJJean, H. G. Morris.. H. A., Tracj, I^,, J.
Chapman, J. W-,Odell, l- Wilspp Pptt^r^ W-.^- Xoung.
W. Boxall, H. Little, W. A-. .JBilpey, afld . Harfy, J.
yeit.qh. ,

Ft Mesitejth OGiLVig, Esq., ^he .Shrubbery, Qjffgrd
(gr. Mr. B>lmfprth), was awarded a Silver Flora Me^al
for an excellent group, in which good Cypripedium^ X
Maudjy,, varieties pf C. insigne, two batclies of the
orange-=coLoured La^lio-Cattleya y, Chaflesy/orthii.
scarlet SophroLnitis,, varieties of LBelia anceps, aiuT a
grand specimen, of Lycaste x P-allise, for which a i^ui-
tutal Commendation was given, were noted.

Messrs. Sander'^ Sons, St. Albans, secured a SiJyer
^ Flofa, Medal for a good group rich in Cypripediums.
C. X The Marchioness (Alraos x Leeanum), C. ' X The
Duchess (insigne Bohnhoffianum x • aureum'), and the
fine C. X Earl of 'Tankerville being novelties. Also
included were 20 varieties of Ci-pripedium insigne,
Lalia x Finckeniana alba, Maxillaria eiegantula,
hybrid Epipendrums, &c. ..

Messrs. Jas. Cypher & Sons,. Cheltenham, were
awarded a Silver Flora Me'dal for a very fine and well-
staged group mide up of the best forms- of Lielia
anceps, Cypripedium X Leeanum giganteum, with six-
teen blooms; the distinct C. X Leeanum. ' Cypher's
variety; the large C. X Charlesianum, Cypher's variety ;
C. X Arth-uriinum, with 25 flo<vers, and other good
Cypripediums; Odontoglossums crispum, ■ Hallii, and
Adrianae; Masdevallia Schroderiana, M.- -Healhii, &c.

C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham (gr.
Mr. Duncan), showed an effective -group, in the centre
of which wa^ a large pan of the pretty, yellow Oncidiura
cheirophorum. With it were good, Calanthes, Odonto-
glossums, Cypripedium X Chameleon w.itb large flowers
having striped yellow and brown petals, and other
Cypripediums. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

30

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[January 13, 1906.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., EnfieM. staged a group in
which were Vanda Amesiana, Bulbophyllum Dearei, a
fine Dendrobium beterocarpum, Cypripedium villosum
auriferum, and other Cypripediums ; Lslia albida,
Masdevallias» &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Stanley & Co., Southgate, arranged a group
of Cattleyas, Odontoglossums, &c., in which were noted
Cattleya Trianaei alba and a good-coloured form of
the species with purple feather on the petals; Odonto-
glossum X Loochristiense, O. crispum, various Masde-
vallias, Lselia anceps Amesiana ; Cypripediums, &c.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Loochristi, Ghent, showed a
small group of excellent hybrid Odontoglossums, in-
cluding two O. X ardentissimura, three O. x Loochris-
tiense, O. x amabile, O. x Vuylstekei, and others.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White),
showed a fine yellow Mormodes, and a singular Orchid
resembling Schlimia.

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield (gr. Mr, Hop-
kins), showed the large Cypripedium x Ville de Paris
with four flowers, the neat white Cattleya Trianaei
Wellesleyas with six blooms, the elegant Cypripedium x
Bella, Westfield variety, C. x Memoria Jerninghamiae,
C. X Tracyanum, and others.

A. L. WiGAN, Esq., Forest Park, Windsor, showed
Cypripedium x Joyce.

J. GuENEY Fowler, Esq., South Woodford (gr. Mr.
Davis), showed four varieties of Cypripedium x
aurtum ; C. x Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, Chadwar variety, C.
X Milo, Cobb's variety, and C. x Actaeus Langleyense.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq. (gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman),
showed Cattleya x Chapmani (Hardyana, Oakwood
variety, x TrMusei).

H. S. GooDSON, Esq., Fairlawn, Putney (gr. Mr.
Day), showed Cypripedium x Niobe superbum, C. X
Nellie Goodson, and La-lio-Cattleya x Mrs. Ernest
Bourdas, a bright, rosy-purple flower.

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, Chelsea, showed
Sophro-Cattleya x Doris, recently illustrated in The
Gardeners* Chronicle, with a pretty, reddish-yellow
coloured flower, and two other hybrid:.

Harry D. Headland, Esq., Balham, sent Cypripe-
dium X Headlandianum (Lathamianum x Memoria
Moensii).

H. J. Elwes, Esq., Colesborne Park, showed a fine
plant of Pleione bumilis and Habenaria Bonatea.
AWARDS.
First Class Certificate.

Cypripedium x Alcibiades magnificutn (Lecanum
gigantcum X Mens, de Curte), from Major G. L.
HK)LF0RD, Westonbirt (gr. Mr. Alexander). A truly mag-
nificent specimen ; flowers very large, and of fine sub-
stance. The large dorsal sepal is white, with an emerald
green base, and dotted lines of purple; petals and lip
yellow, tinged and marked with purpte-brown.
Awards of Merit.

Cataxetutn splendens punctatissimutn, from Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White). A fine
and distinct form ef the natural hybrids of C. raacrocar-
pum X C. pileatum. Lip fleshy, bright yellow. Sepals
and petals whitish, densely spotted with purple.

Cypripedium x Bella, Westfield variety (vexillarium
X pbilippinense), fronj Francis Wellesley, Esq. (gr.
Mr. Hopkins). A graceful and floriferous hybrid, with
numerous flowers, arranged like those of C. pbilippinense,
but of the rose tints of C. vexillarium. Cut spikes of the
lighter typical form were also shown.

Lalio-Cattleya x Helena^ Westfield variety (L. cinna-
barina x C. Schilleriana), from Francis Wellesley,
Esq. A tall-growing hybrid, witli distinct orange-coloured
flowers having a purple-veined labellum.

Bra$iO-Cattleya x Pyrrha (B. glauca x C. labiata),
from Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea. Flower
large, fragrant, and firm in substance, bright rose colour;
plant dwarf.

Cypripedium x Earl of Tankerville (exul X nitens,
Sanders' variety), from Messrs. Sander & Sons. A
charming and distinct hybrid, with well-formed flower of
very thick substance. Dorsal sepal white with a small
cmerald-green base, the lower part bearing heavy
chocolate-purple blotches, and the middle area large
rose-purple spots ; the broad petals and lip honey-yellow,
marked with light reddish-purple and brown.

Botanical Certificate.
Brassavola glauca, from H. S. Goodson, Esq., Fair-
lawn, Putney (gr. Mr. Day). This is a well-known, white-
fiowered, fragrant species.
. Diploma Competition.

This was the first event of the year under the new
rules designed to bring out the best of new or already
shown hybrids and species. Coloured varieties of Lailia
anceps, and species and hybrids of Calanthe were set
down for the day. With these plants were arranged all
the Society's paintings bearing on the subjects, and thus
*>.n instructive opportunity for comparison was given.

Major G. L. Holford, De B. Crawsiiay, Esq.,
Francis Wellesley, Esq., Messrs. McBean and others
showed good forms of Lselia anceps, the L. a Schroderae.
and especially the fine varieties of it named Raymond
Crawshay, Lionel Crawshay. and Theodpra, which were
far ibe best. ,

In Calanthes Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood,
Wylanj (gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), staged a very fine
group of the beautiful hybrids, principally raised at Oak-
wood, and ranging in colour from white to bright blood-
red, that tint being reached in C. x Chapmani, the
richest in colour and brightest in tint of any k.iown
Calanthe. Other good specimens were C. x atrorubens,
C. X Sedeni lactea, C. x Phoebe, C. x Sibyl, C.
X Victoria, C. x Bryan, C. x Wm. Murray, &c.
Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr. Mr. W. P.
Bound), also staged a fine and varied group of C. vestita
varieties, C. X Sandhurstiana, C. x Veitchii varieties,
C. X Alpha, &c.

Awards.

Hybrids.— Calanthe x Harrisii (First Diploma), from
Norman C. Cookson, Esq. ; the best white. First shown
by Messrs. Jas. Veitch and Sons, 1895.

Calanthe x Veitchii (Second Diploma), finely shown
by Jeremiah Colman, Esq., and still the best for
general cultivation in its section on account of its strong
constitution and bright rose-pink flowers.

Species.— Calanthe vestita nigro-oculata gigantea
(First Diploma), from Norman C. Cookson, Esq. A
very strong grower, with large white flowers with reddish
crimson eye.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Jas. Cheal, Esq., in the chair, and Messrs.
W. Bates, S. Mortimer, Alex. Dean, J. Mclndoe, Geo.
Keif, H. Markham, Ed. Beckett, Jno. Lyne, F. Q.
Lane, J. Willard, H. Parr, Chas. Foster, Owen Thomas,
and W. Poupart.

The principal exhibit brought before the Fruit and
Vegetable Committee was a njagnificent collection, era-
bracing over 100 varieties of Apples and Pears, shown
by Messrs. George Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, Kent.
All the specimens were in fine condition, being large,
plump, and highly coloured. As a selection of the more
prominent varieties shown we may mention Bismarck,
Belle du Bois (very large handsome fruits), Barnack
Beauty, Cox's Orange Pippin, Wealthy, Pomme de
Neige (small, handsome, highly-coloured fruits). Twenty
Ounce, King of Tompkin's County, Newton Wonder
(fruits coloured to a high degree). Striped Beefing,
Blenheim Pippin, Belle de Boskoop (rough, russety
fruits, with good dessert appearance), Christmas Pear-
njain, Cornish Gilliflower, and Brabant Bellefleur.
Among Pears were good fruits of Ramillies, Verulam,
and Uvedale St Germain, one fruit of the latter variety
weighing 2ilb. (Hogg Memorial Medal.)

Sir E. G. LoDER, Bart., Leonardslee, Horsham (gr.
Mr. W. A. Cook), displayed a collection of Apples and
Pears, many from standard trained trees. We noticed
good dishes of Duchesse de Nemours, Beurre de
Nemours, and Olivier de Serres Pears. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

W. Shuter, Esq., 33, Belsize Grove, Hampstead,
N.W. (gr. Mr. J. Armstrong), displayed five stands of
Black Alicante Grapes. The bunches, although small,
had been well kept, the bloom especially being well pre-
served. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Geo. Massey & Sons, Spalding, Lincolnshire,
staged a good collection of Potato tubers in 33 varieties.

Two dishes of Mushrooms shown by Lord Aldenham,
Aldenham Houie, Elstree (gr. Mr. E. Beckett), being of
nice appearance, were awarded a Cultured Commenda-
tion.

Varieties of Apples were shown by Messrs. Cross &
Soh, Wisbech, and other exhibitors.

First Class Certificate.

Citrus jafonica fructu elliptico. This is the de-
corative Orange which received an Award of Merit from
the Floral Committee at the previous meeting (See our
issue for Dec. 33rd, p. 446.)

THE HORTICULTURAL CLUB.

January 9. — The last meeting of the members of this
club before the annual dinner, which will take place
on February 14 next, was held on the above date in
the club room at the Hotel Windsor, Westminster.
The subject for discussion was " British and Foreign
Parks — A Comparison," and Mr. Jordan, Superintend-
ent of the Royal Parks in London, read an exceed-
ingly interesting paper. Mr. Jordau gave some de-
tails of the principal parks and gardens in Paris, in-
cluding the famous garden at Versailles, which belong
to the State ; also the Bois de Boulogne, Champs
Elysees, and other open spares which are managed
by the City of Paris Parks Department. The manage-
ment of these latter parks was described as first-rate,
and the glasshouses for purposes of propagation and
for the protection of tender plants all that could be
desired. These and other necessaries were provided
for the department at a cost of ;^ioo,ooo. Turning to
Brussels, Mr. Jordan said that the parks there were
scarcely so interesting, and remarked of the Botanic
Gardens that they were patronised by the near resi-
dents as a pleasure ground pure and simple, but the
Garden contains some very valuable and rare plants.
Laeken was referred to in greater detail, and a tribute
was paid to the enthusiasm King Leopold has always

shown for gardening. Mr. Jordan admired the methods
of planting the grounds, for good breadths of different
species were planted in groups, and such shrubs as
Magnolias and others are thus exceedingly effective.
In Vienna the parks are well kept, but all of them are
not free from a rather low form of entertainment.
The boulevards are very fine, and Roses succeed
particularly well in the gardens. After a few remarks
about Buda-Pesth, Mr. Jordan described Berlin as the
cleanest and best city he had visited. There was
neither abuse nor destruction of public property there,
and, as a park superintendent, the lecturer feelingly
attributed this excellent state of things to the Berlin
populace having been taught unusually good discipline
when they were children. There were no notice boards
and no boundaries needed! Further remarks were
made upon Potsdam, the Palm Garden at Frankfort-
on-the-Main and the wonderful carpet bedding there ;
also on the gardens at Cologne, &c. Mr. Jordan
having visited all the places mentioned, was able
to offer some criticism on the various foreign parks
from the point of view of a specialist who has had
wide experience.

The second part of the paper dealt with the parks
in this country. It was pointed out that in London the
Royal Parks, under the management of the Commis-
sioners of H.M. Works, numbered ai, and comprised
nearly 6,000 acres. Those under the City Corpora-
tion, including Epping Forest, amounted to over 6,000
acres; the London County Council had 95 parks, which,
together, comprise about 4,000 acres. Including these arid a
few belonging to other authorities, tliere are in Lon-
don 224 parks, which include 17,956 acres. Interestint;
particulars were related of Greenwich, Hyde, and the
Green Parks, and of the alterations that have lately
been made in the Green Park ; also of tree life in the
parks, showing that the Elm is longer lived in London
than is the Oak. The magnificent parks and gardens
in Edinburgh were referred to, and then Mr. Jordan
proceeded to point out some of the contrasts between
English parks and those to be seen abroad, in the
course of which he lamented the fact that Roses will
not succeed well in London, and also that fogs were
destructive of some of the best work that is done
in the parks; but, on the contrary, the grass in the
London parks is always green, and of very much better
colour, and it wears better than any lawn grass that is
cultivated abroad. A note was sounded as to the
danger, as well as the benefit, that may possibly arise
from following a good lead, and we gathered that
Mr. Jordan very properly considers that it would be
a pity if efforts were made to make the Vienna or any
foreign and London parks after the same pattern.
We need variety even in our parks at home, and, as
Mr. Jordan pointed out, an authority when it obtains
possession of a piece of land should not endeavour
to follow some model, but rather to make the best
of the natural features of the site, and thus impart
to the place an effect that will be different from other
places of a similar character. Credit was given to the
L.C.C. for having done this in some of the London
parks. In the subsequent discussion, remarks were
made by Messrs Assbce, C. T. Druery, Geo. Monro,
W. Marshall, White, Simpson, and H. J. Veitch (chair-
man), &c. Mr, Veitch said Vienna was much the
finest city he has seen, and described the shores of the
BosphoTus, near Constantinople, in the highest terms
of appreciation. The effect to be seen there when the
Judas trees (Cercis siliquastrum^ are in flower is in-
describably good.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

December 21, 1905. — There was a moderate display of
plants at the meeting on the above date.

G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq. (gr. Mr. Shill) staged
a group of Cypripediums, for which a silver
medal was awarded. Cypripedium x Thompson i was
shown in very good form. Awards of merit were
granted for Cypripedium x Thalia, Schofield's variety,
C. X Stottlanum, a hybrid between C. x Lathamianum
X C. insigne var. Sanderse, and C. aureum var. Cyrus
superbum.

S. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr. Mr. Cypher)
exhibited a splendid Cypripedium x Leeanum var.
GratrixtC. (First class certificate.)

R. AsHwoRTH, Esq., Newchurch (gr. Mr. Pids-
ley) obtained a first class certificate for Cypripedium x
bingleyense var. " CEneas."

Mr. A. J. Keeling, Bradford, obtained an award of
merit for Cypripedium insigne var. confusa, and a
bronze medal was awarded for his group.

O. O. Wrigley, Esq., Bury (gr. Mr. Rogers)
exhibited a distinct form of C. insigne named Clinka-
berryanum. (Award of merit.)

Messrs. Charlesv/orth and Co., Bradford, staged a
bright group of hybrids. (Silver medal.;

Votes of thanks were passed to Messrs. Sander &
Sons, Mr. J. Rubson, Mr. D. McLeod. and Mr. H. H.
Clegg for exhibits. P. W.

January 13, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

3[

SOCIETE FRANGAISE
D'HORTICULTURE DE LONDRES.

January 6.— At the Cafe Royal, Regent Street,
the members and friends of the above society
celebrated its seventeenth anniversary. Mr. John
Harrison, of Leicester, occupied the chair, and
tlif company was almost as numerous as last year, and
comprised Messrs. Thomas Bevan, A. Taylor, Harman
Payne, representing the N.C.S., Geo. Coleman, Foster,
J. CoUingridge, D. Ingamells, of Covent Garden, Otto
Hiehle, Brian Wynne, Tucker, Cochrane (of Hurst and
Sons), Gaskill (of Cooper, Taber, and Co.), Munson and
Cornant (of Carter and Co.), Torkildsen, Cutbush, Duck-
ham, of New York, and many other well-known repre-
sentatives of the horticultural irade ia its various
branches.

The Chairman proposed the health of the President
of the French Republic, which was followed by the
singing of the " Marseillaise." Next came that of " The
King," and afterwards a verse of "God Save the
King " was sung.

The toast ef the evening was that of " La Society
Frangaise d'Horticulture de Londres." In proposing
this, the Chairman dwelt upon the fact that the society
had now existed f^r 17 years and was really a practical
forio of the entente cordiale long before the good un-
derstanding generally known by that name existed. It
was interesting to see such a soci-jiy make such pro-
gress as it had done, for, beginning with only is
members, it now numbered no fewer than 600. He
hoped it would continue to flourish and continue to
receive tlie support of the leading horticulturists ia
all countries. He welcomed there to-night one from
Tokio. He was pleased to see so many young French-
men present and also some young Englishmen who had
lived in France. He himself had occasion to visit
that country at times, and was always received in a
kindly way. If there was anything he felt jealous of
it was the French climate. Seeing so many young
men present, he would offer a little advice, and it
would be for them all, whether English or French, to
lead steady, honourable lives, to be honest in all their
dealings, and to see to it that their word could always
be relied on. In ordinary business matters there was
no need to give themselves away, but they should be
truthful and honourable. The toast was then proposed
amid much enthusiasm, coupled with the name of Mr.
George Schneider.

Mr. Geohge Schneider, in reply, said their chairman
was a man well known and greatly esteemed. He was
the head of a large firm in Leicester, and was eminently
qualified for the position he occupied that evening.
They were all grateful to him for the good advice he
had given and for coming among them to preside
over the meeting. So far as the society was concerned,
it had not been quite so successful last year as it
had been in former years, conditions of trade being
somewhat less favourable. He then gave various statis-
tics concerning the society, its members, literary and
financial condition, and explained that they were in a
large degree indebted to many of their English friends.
He would ask them to drink to the prosperity of English
horticulture and to their English friends and supporters.

Mr. Harman P.ayne replied, saying that if they had
so many friends it was because the society, by its en-
lightened policy, had deserved it. There had long
existed a bond of sympathy between them and the
society he represented. The National Chrysanihemum
Society and these two societies had laid the foundation-
stone of the entente cordiale horticole as it existed
to-day. Their prosperity was due in a large measure
to their president, who, with the members of the bureau,
had made the society what it was. He asked them to
raise their glasses and drink to the Bureau of the
Society.

M. Verboonen proposed the English Horticultural
Press, to which l\Ir. B. Wynne replied. Mr. T. Bevan
proposed a vole of thanks to the chairman. During
the evening it was announced that several new honorary
members had added their names to the list — viz.,
Messrs. Witty, Johnstone, Hill, Hooper, J. CoUing-
ridge, J. Foster, etc., and that donations of a guinea
each had been forwarded by Messrs. Ouvrard, Cut-
bush, and Messrs. Howcroft and Watkins.

Music and recitations enlivened tlie -proceedings,
Messrs. Schneider, Tucker, Gaskill, Taylor, and Ver-
boonen being among the principal performers. A pre-
sentation consisting of cutlery in a case was made to
Mr. Schneider by the young members of the society
for his interest in their welfare.

(!^i)ituari);

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT
AND PROVIDENT.

January 8. — The usual monthly committee meeting
(vas held at the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent
Square, Westminster, S.W., on the above date, Mr.
T. Winter in the chair. Fourteen new members were
elected, and one nominated. Six members were re-
ported on the sick fund. The amount paid out for
sickness since the last meeting was £22 igs. Messrs.
W. Gunner and T. H. Puzey were elected to audit the
bociely's accounts for the past' year.

Harrison Weir. — Not unexpected, but none
the less to be lamented, was the death, as
briefly announced in our last issue, of this well-
kno\vn artist on the 3rd inst. To many of our
readers he was personally known, to a vastly
greater number his name was familiar as the
illustrator and author ot countless books and
papers on natural history subjects, particularly
birds. His sympathies were broad. He was
genial to all, and to his associates "a fel-
low of infinite jest, of most e.\cellent fancy."
To those who knew him intimately his loss will,
therefore, be a severe one. He was born at
Lewes in 1824. Like many another boy he
was a naturalist in his early youth — self taught

celebrity. He waS one Of the first to join the-
artistic staff of the Illustrated London News. This
was, of course, before the days of the camera
and of "half-tone" blocks. It is beyond the
power of computation to estimate the many
thousands of persons to whom he afforded delight
and instruction in this way. He was a most
industrious and prolific artist. But art did not
exhaust his sympathies ; he was an authority on
Pigeons and on Poultry — his latest book entitled
" Our Poultry," a work of life-long research and
observation, will be the standard te.\t-book for
many a year to come. His services as a judge
were constantly in request, and he did his best to
counteract the inanities of the exhibition-table and
to substitute a more reasonable and useful standard
of merit. He was the founder cf the Cat slow
and laid down the rules for judging the domestic

THE U.\TE HARRI'iON WHIK.

and untrained. The preface to a delightful little
book of his, entitled " Everyday in the Country,"
contains an illustration showing Harrison with
his brother Jenner. as little lads, roaming hand-in-
hand together through the woods and admiring
the gambols of a squirrel on a branch overhead.
Jenner Weir, we may add, who died some few
years since, became a well-known entomologist,
and was a member of the Scientific Committee of
the Royal Horticultural Society. Harrison was
apprenticed to Baxter, one of the originators of
colour-printing, but soon betook himself to painting,
and attracted public attention by his careful and,
so to speak, sympathetic representations of birds
and animals. He became an exhibitor at the
Royal Academy and other kindred societifes, but
it was as an illustrator of books, newspapers and
other periodicals that he attained the widest

pet. His little book on the Cat is remembered
for its delightful representations of the several
breeds of this animal, and the likenesses they
suggested to some of his friends.

To us he was best known as an enthusiastic
gardener and lover of florists' flowers. He prac-
tised "wild gardening" before the name was
invented. He found beauty in the meanest
weed. Did such a plant appear in his borders,
he did not uproot it, but let it display its
foliage and its flowers in such a way that the
visitor was often surprised at the elegance of
form in what before he had considered as an
unsightly intruder. But Harrison Weir's tastes
were more catholic, and in his garden at lirenchley,
at Sftvdnoaks; and, lately, at Appledore, he showed
his artistic instinct in the selection and arrange-
ment of his plants, and in his appreciation of

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 13, 1906.

subtle harmonies of colour in his flowers. He
studied, too, the utilitarian side of things. Lilie
Ills friend R. D. Blaclimore, he was an ardent
pomologist, as well as a connoisseur in Potatos.
In these matters the extent of his knowledge was
sometimes only imperfectly appreciated by his
fellows, simply because he looked at things from
a different point of view from that adopted by the
specialist and the professional cultivator.

In addition to all these occupations he found
time for journalism. He was a frequent writer in
the Field, and at one time edited a provincial
weekly journal with much ability. To our own
columns he was an occasional contributor, and
drawings from his pencil have from time to time
found a place in our pages. The portrait we are
enabled to give shows that if he was a keen critic
when occasion demanded it, his judgment was
always tempered with such kindliness and good
nature that, while we know he made many friends,
it is difficult to conceive that he could have had
any enemies.

Oliver Tietjens Hemsley. — We regret to
record the death of this promising young Kewite,
which took place at Lahore on January 6 last.
The deceased was the only son of Mr. W. Botting
Hemsley, F.R.S., the Keeper of the Herbarium,
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. He was bom in
February, 1876, was educated at Dr. White's
School, at Turnham Green, and at King's College
School, London. When he was 17 years of age, in
1893, he entered the service of the Royal Gardens,
Kew, and worked in several departments. As a
young gardener he earned the goodwill and respect

THE WEATHER.

THE LATE OLIVER TIETJENS HEMSLEY.

of all his chiefs, and the results of his application to
study was apparent when he gained the highest
number of marks in several of the courses of
lectures, Chemistry, Physics, Economic Botany,
&c. He left Kew in 1898 to work at the Govern-
ment Cinchona Factory at Mungpoo in Septem-
ber, 1898. In 1902 he was at Delhi where he had
much work in preparing for the Durbar. An attack
of fever caused him to be invalided for some months,
but in October of the same year he was put in
charge of the Government Gardens and Zoological
Gardens at Lahore. The official reports prove
him to have been an energetic and successful
superintendent, the new works and improvements
undertaken by him being spoken of most highly.
A couple of hours after the ireceipt, by his parents,
of the cable-message announcing the death of their
soil the Indian mail was delivered and a characteristic
letter from him was received in which he cheerily
wrote about his work and intentions in spite of
the fever from which he was then suffering. Mr.
d'. T. Hemsley leaves a widow and onfe daughter
only seven mojiths old.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the
Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Wisley,
Surrey. Height above sea - level 150 feet. The
following are the "mean" readings for the week
ending January r», IflnO;--

1906.

Temperature
OF THE Air.

z

o
u

Tempera-
ture OF THE
Soil at qa.m.

H

H

J

u

At 9 A.M.

>
<

Q

0

■S. K

H

1

o

t

o

a.

O

<

z.

« »•

X

z

. 1

SoS

£i

A

-^

■^

S'^^

3

D

u?

.J

ci.

■41

pa

o

O

Q

1

<

<

<

bf)

bJ)

h*n

ti)

^

bb

to

bb

<D

0)

ttj

c

hr. min.

"O

TD

-O

-o

'V

13

T)

13

Tot

Means

41

40

47

38

35

41

42

44

114

— 'J6

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
A very warm, wet and windy week. — On each day the
weather continued warm for the time of year, both during
the daytime and at night. On the warmest day the
temperature in the thermometer screen rose to 53 degrees,
and on two nights the exposed thermometer did not fall
lower than 40 degrees — the former being 12 degrees, and
the latter 13 degrees, higher than their respective aver-
ages for January. The ground temperatures have conse-
quently risen, and are now about 3 degrees higher than
is seasonable, both at one and two feet deep. Rain has
fallen on all but one day since the year began, and to
the total depth of two inches, which is only half an inch
short of the average quantity for the whole month.
During the same nine days nine gallons of rainwater have
come through each of the percolation gauges, which are
a yard square. The sun shone on an average for \\
hours a day, or for about a quarter of an hour a day
longer than is usual at this season. On each of the last
six days the maximum velocity of the wind has been in
excess of the average. The windiest day was the 6th,
when for the twelve hours ending 5 p.m. the mean velocity
amounted to 21 miles an hour. In the windiest hour 36
miles was recorded — direction W.S.-W. It is now over
twelve months since the wind has been in any hour as
high as this. The mean amount of moisture in the air
at 3 p.m. was 3 per cent, less than is seasonable for that
hour. The Winter Aconite first showed an open flower
in my garden on the 7th, which is twelve days earlier than
its average date in the same spot for the previous 17
years, and, with two exceptions, earlier than in any of
those years. E, M., Bcrkhamsted, January 10, 1906.

OUR ALMANAC NUMBER.— Such was

the demand for our last issue, that although a
largernumber than usual was printed, ourpublisher
soon found himself unable to comply with the
demand. Means are being taken, as far as pos-
sible, to supply the deficiency.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

American and Colonial Gardening Papers :
A.C. Cornhill. America: The Florists' Exchange,
2-8, Duane Street, New York ; The Weekly
Florists' RevieiB. 520, Caxton Buildings, 334,
Dearborn Street, Chicago; Horticulture, 11,
Hamilton Place, Boston, Mass, Australia : The
Sydney Mail, Pitt and Hunter Streets, Sydney ;
Garden and Field, Adelaide, South Australia.

Books : M. &■ S. There is no book that fulfils your
requirements. You must consult separate works
for the information on the propagation of fruit
trees, hardy flowering plants, trees and shrubs,
&c., &c.

Carnation Leaves spotted : E. M. The spot-
ting is the result of the fungus Helminthosporium.
Burn the diseased leaves and afterwards spray
the plants occasionally with a weak solution of
permanganate of potash.

Carnations : D. &■ Co. The plants are attacked
by the Carnation maggot — Hylemia nigrescens —
a small, yellowish-white grub that is hatched
from an egg laid on or in the leaf. The maggot
works its way down under the outer skin of the
leaf until it finds its way into the shoot, where,
eating out the very centre of the stem, it eventu-
ally kills it. No dressings or solutions are
efficacious in dealing with the pest, and it must
be destroyed by piercing the body with a sharp,
narrow-pointed knife, or with a stout pin. The
work of the pest is mainly observable in young
plants such as layers and seedlings, and after
the plant has attained a moderate age it appears
to enjoy a comparative immunity from attack.

Cinerarias : Puzzled. We are unable to give an
opinion as to the cause of the failure, not having
seen the plants. The degree of atmospheric
heat mentioned (50°) is quite sufficient. Have
you applied water in excess to the roots of the
plants ? Examine the leaves for insect pests.

Coleus thyrsoideos : G. W. The injury to the
leaves is probably the result of a check sustained
by the plant. This may have been caused either
by a low temperature, excessive moisture, cold
draughts, or from fumigating too strongly. We
have also seen these plants suffer badly from the
effects of fog.

Cucumber : F. K. The Cucumber, like the Melon,
is a fruit. It is not used for dessert purposes,
but that has nothing to do with the question.
Rhubarb though used as a fruit is not a fruit,
but the petiole (leaf stalk) of an herbaceous
flowering perennial plant. — A Constant Reader.
Instead of fresh lime it would be better to get
some old mortar rubble, or, failing this, slaked
lime.

Currant Shoots: ]V. R. The shoots are infested
with the Currant-bud mite. The best practice
will be to take away and burn the bushes which
are most affected. Cut the infested shoots from
the remaining bushes, and rake away the surface
soil from under the bushes, so far as this can be
done without damaging the roots. Afterwards top
dress the roots with fresh soil. A correspondent
recommended on page 330, May 21, 1905, an
application of quassia and soft soap as a remedy,
applied at intervals during June and July.

Market Gardeners' Society : Protection. Apply
to the Nursery and Seed Trades' Association,
Ltd. Address the Secretary, Mr. W. J. Worrell,
30, Wood Street, Cheapside, London.

Mesembryanthemums : R.M.C.L., Nice. Old
mortar rubble is a very valuable material for
these plants when cultivated in pots. In mixing
a compost you might have one-third of this
material. i

Names of Plants: A. IV. S., Basingstoke. The
Editor cannot undertake to name Carnations
nor, any florists' flowers. These should be sent
to a nurseryman who makes a speciality of the
particular flower you wish to have named. —
R. H. Calanthe vestita luteo-oculata. — G. F. T.
Cypripedium x Dauthieri viride. It is a vari-
able form often giving purple-tinted flowers
together with those like yours. — W. S. 1,
Lastrea aristata variegata ; 2, Aspidium trifolia-
tum ; 3, Asplenium alatum ; 4, Cyrtomium
Fortunei ; 5, Blechnum occidentale ; 6, Polypo-
dium Phyllitidis. — W. T. Probably Jacaranda
mimosifolia.

Notice to Leave : Weekly Reader. You have not
given sufiicient particulars, but assuming that
you fill the situation of under garden, we think
that in the circumstances a fortnight's notice
either way should suffice.

Pear: SirJ.T.R. Leon Leclerc de Laval. — J.B.,
Bucks. 1, Wilson'sProlific; 2, Adam's Pearmain ;
3, not recognised, send earlier next season ; i and
5, Cox's Orange Pippin.

Twin Violets : T. H. The abnormal condition
has been caused by the fusion of the two flower
stalks, a not uncommon occurrence' in flowers,
though we do not remember having seen it
before in the case of Violets.

Vines failing : H. W. We suspect the trouble
arises from the unsuitable condition of the
borders, and the Vines themselves appear to
be of considerable age. Fungus is present on
the roots, but this probably appeared after the
roots had perished. The better plan will be to
renew the .borders and plant afresh. You can
remodel a portion of the border this season,
and complete the operation next or even the
following year, and thus ensure a portion of
your crop. Meantime you could furnish tlie
vacant space with pot-vines, which produce good
results if given suitable treatment.

Communications Received. — Royal Botanic Society (with

thanks)— D. R. W.— A. D L. G.— de B. C— G. Grignan—

J. R. D.— F. G.— M. P. A. Stockholm— P. C. Pisa— L. G.,
Brussels — T. F., Magdeburgh — B. VVadds (many thanks,
as soon as circumstances will permit) — W. W. — C.
Sprenger, Naples. — F. W. — Jeannot (next week) — A. E. M.
— M. L.— S. & Sons— J. C. T.— J. W.— C. M._W. C.-
F. S.— W. C— M. & Sons— A. O.— A. Mc— H.M.— F. G. L.
— T. D.— C. R.— J. J. W.-C. J. E.— H. W. W.— D. R. W.
—Dr. H.— F. M.— W. W. & Sons.

For Market Reports, see f>a^c xvi.

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•January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

THE

No. 995,— SATURDAY, January 20, 1906.

Agricultural

ative settlement, a pro-
posed

Apple orchards

Azalea beds, plants for
associating in

©ooks, notices of — •
Jamaica in 1905
My Garden Diary
New Creations in

Plant Life

Pictorial, Practical

Flower Gardening...

Sweet Pea Annual ...

Webster's Forester's

Pocket Diary
Willing's Press Guide

Botrytis cinerea, a dis-
ease of vines

Citrus japonica fructo
elliptico

'Coal, anthracite

Dalkeith gacdens

Elm branches used for a
pergola, rooting of ...

Forestry

Fruit industry, the

Fruit register

'Garden cities

"Gardening charities

Hardy flower border ...

Helleborus niger

Kew notes

Law note —
Sale of weed-killer ...

Massonia pustulata

Nursery notes —
Messrs. VValshaw and
Son, Scarborough...

■Obituary —

Mair, G. W

•Orchards, the making of

CONTENTS.

Co-cper- Pears at Hartham Park

Plant notes-
Mimosa Denhardti ...

Momordica elaterium.
Plant novelties of 1905...

Rainfall in 1905

Refrigerating chambers'

a visit to a ship's
Rendle, Dr. A. B.
Rhubarb, forming new

beds of

Royal Botanic Society, a

monetary gift to
Root crops, storing
Royal Botanic Gardens,

Calcutta

Seeds, packing, for tran-
sit abroad

Societies —

GlasgowSeed and Nur-
sery Trade Assis-
tants' Association...

National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural ...

(Scientific Committee)
Tobacco, a monograph

on

Trees and shrubs
Vilmorin memorial, the
Week's work, the

Apiary, the

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ...

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...
Willow-wood for cricket

bats

Wireworms checked by

artificial manures

47

47

41
47

42
38
45

39
39

38
38
3!)
3K
38

4G

41

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Elm branches, used in the construction of a pergola,

rooting and producing shoots 35, 3G

Massonia pustulata 44

Pine Beetle, the .. 4S

Scroll flower-border in the gardens at Dalkeith Palace
(Supplementary Illustration)

Memorial to the Vilmorin familv 45

Views in the gardens at Dalkeith Palace 33,34

Wax foundation in bee-hives, diagrams illustrating the
use of 89

* DALKEITH.

(See figs. 18 & 19 ; also Supplementary Illustration.)

THE present gardens attached to Dalkeith
Palace, near Edinburgh, were made
during the years intervening between
1840 and 1S45 by Charles Mcintosh,
who was commissioned to do this work by the
fifth Duke of Buccleuch, father of the present
Duke. The gardens soon became famous,
partly because they were then amongst the
largest and most up-to-date in the kingdom,
but chiefly owing to Mcintosh having written
one of the largest and most expensive books
on gardening in the English language ; a book
which contained many illustrations, obtained
from the new gardens, and much matter con-
nv'cted with them. Gardening, however, at
tliat period of the nineteenth century was
being practised at many private residences
over the country by young men of superior
intellect, and when the end of the decade 1S50
to i860 was reached, the standard of gardening
that was common from 1840 to 1850 had been
excelled in every direction.

At about 1850 William Thomson was
brought from Wrotham Park, Hertfordshire,
to succeed Mcintosh as head-gardener at
Dalkeith, where he remained until 1S70.
Thomson had shown considerable ability at

Wrotham Park, particularly in the culture of
Vines, and he soon won for the Dalkeith '
gardens not merely national, but European
repute. This was accomplished by a com-
plete revolution in practice, particularly in
vine culture, for Thomson's treatment of vines
and his subsequent book embodying the
details of that treatment became the standard
on which the vastly increased number of culti-
vators have since based their practice.

The requirements of such an establishment
as that of the Duke of Buccleuch are un-
usually extensive, and the gardens at Dalkeith
are therefore of large size, although of less
extent than those attached to the Duke's
residence at Drumlanrig. The kitchen garden,
devoted to the growth of fruit and vegetables,
is an area of 12 acres, and the ground occu-
pied by the greenhouses four acres. There
are also contained inside the garden walls
several acres of flower borders, and a large

in the cultivation of hardy fruits, and he
formed, at Dalkeith, one of the best collections
of all out-door fruits in this country. He was
equally enthusiastic in Arboriculture, and
planted a large number of exotic trees and
shrubs. He completed, only a few days before
his death, a most efficient system of heating
all the glasshouses in the gardens from one
centre. The system resulted in a saving of
one-half of the fuel that was used formerly,
and it has been copied on a large scale in the
King's gardens and in other important estab-
lishments. Dunn died in 1899, and was suc-
ceeded by Mr. James Whytock, who had been
gardener to Earl Fitzwilliam for 21 years
at CooUattin in Ireland. Mr. Whytock is
keeping up the reputation of this fine place
and is generally respected by his brother
gardeners. i- -

The illustrations in the present issue have
been reproduced from photographs taken in

Fig. ih. — view i.v dalkizith palace gardens, showing gardener'=; nnrsE ix

THE DISTANCE.

collection of exotic trees and shrubs. During
the period from i860 to 1870, the gardens
were in a better state of cultivation, and were
maintained more perfectly, than had ever
been the case previously. Dalkeith was then
particularly celebrated for its extensive and
effectively arranged flower borders, an un-
usually good collection of Heaths, a large
collection of Orchids, a fine collection of
specimen stove and greenhouse plants, and
its extensive fruit houses, containing large
quantities of Pineapples, Grapes, Peaches, &c.

In the decade between 1870 and 1880, agri-
cultural depression set in, and landowners
having suffered considerably from depreciation
in rents reduced the labour bill in their
gardens to one-fourth of the former expendi-
ture in some cases and one-half in others.
Since the year 1880 only two-thirds of the
number of men have been employed in Dal-
keith gardens that were engaged formerly.

Malcolm Dunn succeeded WilUam Thomson
as gardener in 1871. Dunn was an enthusiast

September last. At that period of the year
the flower borders at Dalkeith are a feature
that excites the admiration of all visitors to the
gardens. In the first place, they are abundant,
and the long stretches of colour produce an
effect which is more imposing than can be
obtained from less extensive planting. But
in addition to the borders being numerous
and of unusual size, they are planted in the
best manner and with the most suitable plants
for producing the effect which is sought, and
the plants grow so vigorously and flower so
profusely that the visitor is soon impressed
with the skilful management to which they
are subjected. Begonias are employed un-
sparingly ; there are many thousands of
the tuberous-rooted and fibrous-rooted sec-
tions raised annually. They enter into
almost all of the floral arrangements and they
are equally effective everywhere. ^ In the
Supplementary Illustration is shown a view of
a formal flower-garden 400 feet in length,
which of its kind is one of the most effec-

34

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 1SC3.

tive possible. The small circular beds in
the centre of the design 'were last season
planted with a pink-flowered zonal Pelar-
gonium, and the scroll that surrounds each
bed contained blue Lobelias. The scalloped
margin was planted with tuberous-rooted
Begonias and had an edging of fibrous-rooted
varieties just inside the box edging. All the
intervening space between the beds is kept
quite white with a covering of shell. If the
visitor were to stand at the end of this flower
border shown in the illustration he would see
some fine specimens of conifers and other trees
on the near lawn, and beyond them on his left
a boundary wall which divides this part of the
pleasure ground from the park further east.
Against this wall, and in the border at its foot
on the west side, is a very choice and interest-
ing collection of flowenng and other species of
shrubs, many of which we were on a former
Qcca^ioQ surprised to fnd succeeding so well

longer than they are capable of doing in
southern gardens, unless extraordinary treat-
ment is given them. A favourite Viola at
Dalkeith is one named " Bluebell," having blue
flowers and a habit of blooming over a very
long period. A view of some of the other
houses, which it will be seen are of various
forms and sizes, is afforded in fig. ig, and
again the striking feature of Dalkeith, namely,
its flower borders, is brought into promi-
nence. Almost every glass house is partly
surrounded by them, and they are also a con-
spicuous adornment of the kitchen garden.
Those shown in the illustration under notice,
being of less width than some of the others, are
planted with dwarfer growing plants, which in
some instances assume the appearance of true,
carpet-bedding.

Mr. Pettigrew in the last issue (see p. 2S),
wrote on the merits of the liast Lothian Stock
and we can fully agree with his appreriation of

Fig. 19. — VIEW i.n the gardens at dalkeith palace, showing how the glass houses

ARE SURROUNDED WITH FLOWER BORDERS.

in this locality, even though afforded such
shelter. The wall shown to the west of the flower
garden is utilised for the cultivation of fruit
trees. The illustration at fig. 18 shows a broad
gravelled path, terminated by Mr. Whytock's
residence, which is seen in the distance. On
the right hand side is one of the ranges of
glass houses, and the border in front of those
houses and that on the other side of the path
were a perfect blaze of floral colour. The
wide border on the left hand side of the
picture is 400 feet long, and affords sufficient
space for the planting of Dahlias and other large
growing plants, in the scheme of mixed bedding.
Last season the bold patches of rich blue
colour afforded by the very old garden plant
Salvia patens were much admired, and
the species appeared to us to be growing
with greater vigour than is usually the case.
In the opposite border — also 400 feet long —
there was also a considerable variety of
plants, and included were numberless Violas,
wliich flower so much more freely arid

the plant, having seen the display of its varie-
ties in the Dalkeith gardens. Last season one
of the broad paths which cross the kitchen
garden had a line of this stock on either side,
and we have rarely seen plants growing and
flowering so freely and well. A length equal
to 1,300 feet of kitchen garden border was
decorated with these Stocks. A similar path
which crosses this one at the centre was
flanked with lines of Chinese Asters.

The Glass Houses.
It was generally conceded by the visitors to
these gardens last autumn that the vines were
looking better than for many years past, and
there were excellent crops of ripe Grapes,
including the varieties Muscat of Alexan-
dria, Sprotboro' Muscat, Trebbiano, Appley
Towers, White Tokay, Lady Hutt, Golden
Queei-i, Gros Colmar, Mrs. Pince, Black
Alicante, and others. Those of Mrs. Pince
and Muscat of Alexandria were perhaps the
roost remarkable for their unusual weight and

good colour. The Sprotboro' Muscat, t"hough
regarded by some gardeners as the same as
Muscat of Alexandria, is found at Dalkeith to
" set " its flowers well in an atmosphere of a
lower temperature than is necessary for the
better-known variety. In an article by the
present writer in these pages on February i,
igo2, p. 82, were given the dimensions of
the New Vinery built in 1901 by McKenzie
& Moncur, and other particulars relating
to the system of glazing by which the
panes overlap each other a little at the
ends, so that there is ^ inch of space be-
tween them, the lower one passing under the
higher one. There is therefore no " drip " and
the air admitted from the top of the house
in small quantities is beneficial to the vines.
The Grapes, as we saw them in September
last, afforded quite sufficient evidence of the
good effect of the system. We may add that
this Vinery of Teak wood is 75 feet in length,
20 feet in width, and ao feet in height.

The numerous Peach houses, Plum houses,
Fig houses, also those containing Tomatos,
Cucumbers, and other crops, of which mention
may be made of the excellent collection of
fruiting Pines, all bore the appearance of good
management, the trees and plants being in a
vigorous growing condition and bearing good
crops, in the instances where the fruit still
remained to be gathered. Such a collection of
Pines as is cultivated at Dalkeith can only be
seen in very few gardens at the present day,
but in connection therewith it should be re-
membered that in few districts can coal — that
expensive requisite — be purchased so cheaply
as in that neighbourhood. Strawberry plants
are forced in large numbers, and of the varieties
that known as Scarlet Queen is the favourite.

In the plant houses we had occasion to
admire the well-grown Codijeums (Crotons)
and other fine fohage plants. Pelargoniums,
Calanthes (very large pseudo-bulbs that ere
this have doubtless produced a fine display of
flowers), Dendrobiums (which ai-e given
moderately cool treatment at Dalkeith), Chrys-
anthemums, Carnations, tree, border and
Souvenir de la Malmaison types; Oncidium
varicosum, of which a large number of plants
were flowering unusually well, and other
species which we must forbear to enumerate.

We might have referred more fully to tlie
well-managed kitchen garden, to the extraordi-
nary collection of fruit trees, the rose-covered
trcllised walk, the trellis being probably a
century and a half old, the magnificent hedge
of Scots Roses 100 yards in length, supposed to
have been planted by Macintosh, conspicuous
specimens of trees and shrubs in the pleasure
grounds, and to the aged oaks in the part of the
old Caledonian forest which is included in the
pleasure grounds. But our note is already
long, and some of these omitted details were
pubUshed in the article already referred to,
whilst a description of the varieties of Scots
Roses in the hedge was printed in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, July i5, i8gS, p. 41.

VEGETABLES.

VENETIAN CHICORY.
The Revue Horiicole recently published a
coloured figure of the leaves of this variety of
broad-leaved Endive, which is remarkable for its
diversity of colours, ranging from yellow to red,
in dots, stripes, blotclies, ( r in self-colours. In
winter all the leaves become of a reddish-purple
hue. It appears that the variety is largely used
in Italy, and demands no special care.

Janhaey 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

85

PRODIGIOUS "CUTTINGS" OF
ELM.

Three years ago, when making some alteration
in tlie garden here I had occasion to remove a
large Elm tree, and selected some of its timber for
use in making arches for supporting roses. In the
following spring five of the posts or uprights
started into growth. Little attention, however,
was paid to that circumstance, as I had pre-
viously seen green stakes when inserted into the
ground directly after being cut, show signs of life
and then die away ; but, to my surprise, in the
following spring three of the posts again com-
menced to grow, and I then came to the conclu-
sion they had made roots. The matter was brought
to the notice of myemployer, Mr. N. F. Stapylton,
and he suggested that it might be considered suf-
ficiently interesting for recording in the Chronicle.
Not feeling quite sure, however, that they had
rooted I waited for a further length of time to see
what would be the result. During 1905 the post in
the photograph [see fig. 20] with the figure of my-
self standing near to it, has made growths of three
lectin length. Theothertwohavenot made somuch
lieadway, but are decidedly flourishing. I think,
therefore, there can be no doubt but that the j^osts

of the genus ; its habit of growth is that of a
slender scandent shrub, the branches are short and
wiry, nearly all being terminated by a many-
flowered head of white flowers, measuring about
3 inches in diameter. The leaves are of
very deep green colour, of a hard, horny texture,
ovate-acuminate, and entire on the margins. The
corolla tube is 1 inch in leneth. and the limb rather
more than an inch in diameter ; the number of
segments varies from 7 to 10, though usually there
are 8.

This is a useful species as a pillar-plant for an
intermediate-house, or stove, the flowering period
being so prolonged ; the new plant has been grow-
ing and flowering since July last. W . H.

SOLANUM CIGANTEUM.

The genus Solanum is a very large and varied
one, some 750 to LOOO species having been
described. Intiodnced as long ago as 1792
from India, the plant under notice is a very bold
and handsome plant for the adornment of large
greenhouses and conservatories, also for use in
sub-tropical gardening. .Several plants 4 feet to
5 feet in height are flowering in No. 4 green-
house in 8-inch pots. The flowers are of pale
blue colour, small, terminal in a compound

Fig. 20. KLM BRANCHES WHICH HAVE ROOTED

tave made roots. The trunks measure respec-
tively, at two feet from the ground, 15, 22 and
23 inches in circumference. The cause of their
growing may be the mild, damp atmosphere of
Devonshire and the drizzling, wet summers of 1903
and 1904. IF. Foote, TUiGardcns, Redworth, Totnes.

KEW NOTES.

Jasminum Maingayi, Clarke.

A tropical species that was discovered by Dr.
A. C. Maingay in Penang many years ago, but
which has not yet found its way into general cul-
tivation. The plant now in flower was obtained
from Messrs. F. Sander & Co., of St. Albans, in
1900, and flowered in the Water-Lily house at Kew
in the following year, being then figured in the
Botanical Magazine {tab. 7,823), since which time
many plants have been distributed from Kew,
especially to foreign botanical gardens.

The plant in the Lily-house is a large one,
carrying a profusion of flower-heads ; it is planted
out in a border, and this appears to be the ideal
treatment for producing a mass of growth and
flowers

]. Maingayi belongs to the simple'-leaved section

cyme, branches developing later immediately
below the cyme. It is said to grow to a height
of from 16 feet to 20 feet in its native country,
with a stem as thick as a man's arm. It can be
propagated by seeds or cuttings. For sub-
tropical bedding sow the seeds in autumn or
early in January, growing the plants on in an
intermediate house. It is figured in the Botani-
cal magazine, tab. 1,921, where its native country
is stated to be the Cape of Good Hope, but this
is evidently an error. The Index Kewensis gives
it as India.

Hippeastrums (Amaryllis).
One of, if not the brightest patch in No. 4 on
the last Sunday in the old year was a small
group of five Hippeastrums, carrying in all
about 20 fully expanded flowers. The bulbs were
started into growth in the second week in No-
vember. Four of the five plants had light-
coloured flowers, two of them seedlings flower-
ing for the first time. The Kew strain of Hip-
peastrums have previously been conspicuous for
the fine rich red hybrids of the " Sir William "
type. More recently attention has been paid to
the lighter forms, as well as the still further de-
velopment of the shades of »id.

Rhododendron pr.ecox.
This hybrid Rhododendron, the result of a,
cross made by Mr. Isaac Davies, of Orma-
kirk, in 1860, from a cross between R.
ciliatura and R. dauricum, is a gem for
flowering early under glass. With only a,
little forcing it can be brought into flower by
Christmas. A number of large plants in pots
are covered with rosy-purple flowers in No. 4
greenhouse. Grown in these pots for three
years, they are placed in a warm greenhouse
after flowering to make their growth. During
this period applications of manure water, especi-
ally cow-fnanure, ar; beneficial. In June they
are placed in the open air. Planted out in the
beds or borders, a good show ol flower can bo
obtained for a year or two in large houses, but
unless the position is especially favourable they
do not continue to flower so freely year after
year as those in pots. Plenty of sun and air are
necessary for the ripening of the growths, and
for developing the flower-buds for the following
year. It flowers so early when planted outsida
that unless the plants are in a very sheltered
position, they are injured by spring frosts in the
London districts and farther north. A. 0.

FORESTRY.

CLIMATE AND FORESTRY.

The comparative merits of the climates of the
British Isles and of the Continent (Belgium.
France and Germany) constitute a complicated
question, which could only be solved by a long
series of observations made under similar condi-
tions as to soil. For trees growing in forest masses
no reliable data are forthcoming. We have, how-
ever, many measurements of isolated trees which
afford a fair criterion. Tree growth depends, for a
given species, on soil and climate ; and of climate
the most important features are a heavy rainfall
and the absence of cold drying winds in winter.
A priori in most parts of the British Isles there
exists a climate eminently favourable to tree
growth. The influence of rainfall on height-growth
is well seen in the natural forests of Douglas, this
species attaining a great height in the moist mari-
time region of Oregon, Washington and British
Columbia, and gradually becoming smaller in size
as its distribution is traced inland. Abies concolor
attain 250 feet in height on the Californian Sierras,
whereas in the dry interior of the continent it
only reaches 125 feet.

Certain species, of course, will not grow well, or
even fail to grow at all, in England, either because
they do not receive enough heat in autumn to
ripen their wood, or else they put forth their
shoots too soon in spring, and in both cases are
retarded by frosts. Such species are, however, of
no importance as forest trees.

Mr. Elwes and myself have collected during the
past two or three years an array of facts relating to
tree growth, and I am justified in asserting that the
growth of many species here equals, or excels, that
on the Continent. The following trees, for ex-
ample, to give a short list, succeed in our climate,
make rapid growth, and attain a great height.
Amongst Conifers, Scots Pine, Larch, Douglas Fir,
Menzies Spruce, Common Silver Fir, Austria*, and
Corsican Pines ; amongst hardwoods. Oak, Beech,
Ash, Sycamore, Alder, Black Italian (?) Poplar.
These are all useful trees.

With regard to plantations I may adduce an in-
teresting comparison. In Argyllshire, on poor
soil, rocky and originally covered with heather,
Douglas Fir has made in 23 years, over a con-
siderable area, an average height of 58 feet. This
is precisely its record in Germ.iny, according to
Schweffech, on an experimental olot where the
soil was certainly superior in- quality to that of the
Argyllshire plantation. We lui'.-e many similar

30

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 1S06.

instances of magniBcent growth in plantations of
other species.

People may raise objections to afforestation on
the economic side ; but so far as climate is con-
cerned, I am convinced that it is certainly in our
favour. This is the opinion of all the Continental
foresters with whom I have talked on the subject.
Augustine Henry.

THE MAKING OF ORCHARDS.— I.

Another planting season is with us, and there
are no doubt many who at the present time are
contemplating the formation of an orchard,
either for the purpose of supplying private
needs or with a view to obtaining profit. Fruit-
growing is undoubtedly a pleasant occupation
for those who can afford to sink the necessary
capital and lake some risks as to the results, but
it mav be anything but the easy means of ob-
taining a living that many have suggested it to
be. About such an occupation, which depends
so largely upon circumstances of climate, soil,
situation, and last, but not least, personal
ability to. undertake a business of th» kind, there
is always a very large element of speculation,
and he who embarks upon it with an idea that
it is a simple calling, not requiring a consider-
able amount of knowledge, is doomed to dis-
appointment and pecuniary loss. Even those
possessed of a certain amount of common sense
and learning in this particular branch of horti-
culture have time and again failed to make it
pay for various reasons, sometimes through
faults of their own, but only too frequently
owing to causes over which they had po con-
trol. For all that there is not the slightest
doubt that many of these causes of failure are
attributable to lack of foresight in the first place,
chiefly as regards the situation selected for the
orchard. It is not good enough in these days,
when everything must bs of the best if it is to
hold, its own, to allow anything to be left to
chance, and the man who contemplates growing
fruit for profit must choose the most suitable
' situation he can find for his venture. But
besides this he must, having decided on his spot,
take careful consideration of the kind of trees
best suited to his soil and his purpose, for to
grow the best crop of Apples, Plums or Pears, of
a kind which the market does not want, is just
so much time and money wasted. On the other
hand, it is useless to attempt to grow popular
market varieties on a soil that will not grow
them to perfection, for one's trees must bear
passably well and be capable of producing
quality as well as quantity, if good prices are
to be realised. The would-be fruit grower must
therefore bear these essential points in mind
when selecting his trees and be guided by the
opinions of those who have had experience in
these matters. A thoroughly reliable nursery-
man can generally give the desired information
as to which kinds of fruit trees will do well on
a particular soil, but one must be careful to go
to one who has some reputation as a learned
man in these matters, and not to him who will
palm off on the unsuspecting purchaser those
varieties of which he — the seller^has most in
his nursery, and of which he is naturally most
anxious to dispose. A better plan, though
it is not always feasible, is to enquire in the
neighbourhood of one's prospective orchard
which varieties of trees thrive best in the
locality, and form one's own opinion on the
matter. It is not always possible to obtain the
names of these local trees, whose labels have
probably been lost long ago, but if samples of
the fruit and the leaves of the trees can be
obtained, any good nurseryman can tell the
names of the variety.

The ground and the trees selected (it depends,
of course, upon the length of the purchaser's

purse as to what age the latter are when he buys
them), the next step is the planting. This
operation is as important as the selection of
soil and varieties, yet it is perhaps the most care-
lessly carried out of .inv ol the early steps of
orchard making. The old plan, which one re-
grets to see is still observed by the ignorant in
all parts of the country, consisted simply of
digging a hole and dumping the unfortunate
tree therein. It did not matter in the least
whether the soil was deep or shallow, wet or
dry, clean or full of weeds ; nor was any varia-
tion made in the size of the holes according to

a hurry to get his trees into the soil, with the
result that the proper preparation of the ground
is not attended to as it should be. This clean-
ing and breaking up of the soil ready for the
trees is one of the most important steps towards
the ultimate success of one's labours, for if the
ground is not thoroughly clean to begin with
it is almost impossible to get it into proper order
afterwards. Added to this, work of this nature
amongst a lot of trees is always more difficult
and more expensive than it v.'ould have been
before they were planted. To get the ground
properly cultivated, horse tackle will be neces-

FlG. 21. — A LIVING " POST " AT TOTNES, DEVON.
(For test see p. 35.)

the space required by the roots of the tree.
These were twisted round and jammed in in
any fashion, the sour soil was thrown in upon
them just as it was, and the whole well stamped
in with the heavy foot of the planter. And sub-
sequently the owner, waiting in fond expecta-
tion for a crop that never came, wondered why
his trees did not thrive, and why so many of
them, after a year or two's struggle with a cruel
fate, gave it up and died Nowadays, fortu-
nately, we know rather better than that — at
least, there are some who do — although the
"tree-dumper " is by no means extinct nor likely
to be for a long time to come.

The orchard planter is generally in too great

sary, and a horse or two with harrow or hoe
attached cannot be said to be conducive to the
welfare of the trees. The horse, indeed, is best
kept out of the orchard after the trees are once
planted, for never mind how careful the man
or men in charge of him may be, it will be
almost impossible to prevent some injury to
bark and branches. It will be far better to
postpone one's planting till the following season
if need be than to put the trees into a piece of
land only partially ready for their reception.
The summer is usually the best time to clean the
ground, as it then is a comparatively easy matter
to get rid of weeds, but it is of course possible
to clean the land at other seasons of the year

January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

37

in the absence of excessive rain or hard frost.
The ground that is to be planted will in any case
be all the better if it can be left fallow in a
rough state for a season before it is wanted, but
it is not actually essential that this mode of pro-
cedure should be adopted except in cases where
the land is very foul. A field that has been
regularly cropped with corn or roots is practi-
cally ready for planting so soon as it has had
the plough over it twice, followed by the harrow,
but it is more often than not that the field
selected for the orchard is laid down to grass.
Such a crop is about the worst possible to go
before fruit trees, though no doubt it will sur-
prise many to be told so. There is an idea
deeply ingrained in the mind of nearly every
Englishman that an orchard should consist of
trees planted in grass, but never was there a
greater mistake committed. Not only is grass
the worst possible crop to associate with young
fruit trees when planted, but it is also one of
the worst possible crops, even when entirely
broken up, 'to precede fruit trees. Pasture land
is full of all sorts of injurious insects, which
have for years bred and multiplied without dis-
turbance, and unless the grass crop can be
thoroughly and entirely broken up and the land
repeatedly cultivated for at least two seasons
before the trees are planted, an orchard should
never be contemplated in such a situation. Mea-
dow land is all very well under trees when they
have attained a vigorous growth of 10 or 15
years, during which time the grass must be kept
a long way back from the roots of the trees, but
under such circumstances a meadow is not parti-
cularly useful and the cost of keeping the grass
from encroaching on the cleared spaces around
the trees is so great as to be well nigh imprac-
ticable. It is really much better not to
plant in meadow land at all, but, if it
must be done, then there must be a clear-
ing round each tree from the very beginning
and the clear space must be enlarged every year
as the roots of the trees spread outwards. The
admission of sheep or cattle to eat down the
grass between the trees is impossible unless one
goes to the great expense of wiring in each stem
in the case of high standards or of the whole
tree in the case of pyramids or bush fruit. Such
expense as that cannot be contemplated, and the
only possible use of the grass will be as hay.
Here we are faced with another difficulty, for to
mow and cart the hay, horse-tackle will probably
be necessary, and damage will be done to the
trees unless they are planted at ridiculously
wide intervals. It will, therefore, be seen that
the association of fruit trees with meadow land
is a mistake from every point of view, unless
indeed the idea of the planter is picturesqueness
rather than a crop of fruit. Even this effect will
not be obtained unless the grass is kept well
away from the trees for the first few years of
their growth, for, failing that, the trees will
never grow out at all, and many of them, prob-
ably the majority, w-ill die. Scores of such
instances are to be seen in all parts of the
country, and the writer has in his mind's eye at
the moment a couple of orchards in Sussex,
planted respectively 12 and 15 years ago, both of
which are practical illustrations of the folly of
planting fruit trees in meadow land. In both
instances about 30 per cent, of the trees died
within the first five years after planting,' and
none of them in all these years has made more
than three feet of growth in any direction. Half
of them are cankered and diseased, and the few
bushels of fruit that they have produced could
never command a sale. They have been a dead
failure all round, and after involving their
owners in a loss of several hundred pounds,
they are not worth cutting down for firewood.
East Sussex.

[Tc bt continued.)

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

New Creations in Plant Life. An Authori-
tative Account of the Life and Work of Luther
Burbank. By W. S. Harwood. (Macmillan
&Co.)

This book, written by one who appreciates
most highly both Mr. Burbank himself and
his work, contains a general account of his
methods and results, with descriptions of
several of his most remarkable " creations."
The first chapter is devoted to "The Man,"
giving a brief account of his early life and
struggles, but ever showing a determination to
follow and succeed in carrying out the inherent
bent of his mind. His aim was (1) the improve-
ment of old varieties ; (2) the union of wild with
cultivated types ; (3) the creation of new forms.
Breeding and selection were the two main pro-
cesses, trial and quantity being practically un-
limited. Thousands upon thousands were bred
of one kind or another to select from, but of
which one or two only might satisfy him ; then
all the rest were burnt to make way for fresh
thousands for trial.

With regard to native grasses, the author says :
" Mr. Burbank has been studying for a long
time the question of providing a rich, nutritious
grass for barren regions." This suggests ques-
tions not answered in the book, viz., what in-
gredients does he put into the soil, and what is
the geological nature of the sub-soil? How is it
possible to raise a " nutritious grass," capable of
continuing such, in a barren region? For the
nitrogen required is not supplied by the air,
though the author seems to think a tree " has the
capacity to take so much nourishment from the
air."

With regard to his crosses, some are peculiar.
Thus, (a X b) X (c X d) is stated to have given
certain forms required. A Poppy's pistil may
be quartered, and each quarter separately pol-
linated, giving rise to an annual, a perennial, a
crimson, and a white progeny. This is analo-
gous to other cases, where white eliminated
either the red or yellow of an orange-coloured
flower, as of Abutilon and ' Rhododendron
javanicum.

Remarkable crosses are reported to have been
made among the Rosacea, not only between
members of the same tribe, as between Black-
currant and Raspberry, the Plum and the Apri-
cot, or " Plumcot," said to be a delicious pro-
duct, and the "Primus" berry, between the
Californian Dewberry and the Siberian Rasp-
berry ; but he is stated to have succeeded in
crossing members of the Rubea; and Pomeas,
viz., the Raspberry and Apple, of which "the
Blackberry seeds of the cross produced the
Apple-tree growth '." But of four to five thousand
trees all but two were barren. A Raspberry and
Strawberry cross (i.e., of the tribes Rubes and
Potentilleaj) resulted in plants bearing tall
stems (3 to 5 feet), but with Strawberry charac-
ters. It also was barren.

Mr. Burbank shows that there is a close
parallel between the effects of grafting and those
of crossing. Speaking of new " species," used
in a general sense, Mr. Burbank says : " Cross-
ing makes perturbations or variations and new
combinations of these forces, as well as a radi-
cally changed environment ; both of which
produce somewhat similar results."

Two chapters deal with' " How may I
do it, too?" One is on "Breeding," the other
on " Grafting." In the latter are some interest-
ing obseri'ations on the effects of the scion on
the stock, as in strengthening the roots, etc. As
an example, Mr. Burbank grafted a Japanese
I'ear upon a Bartlett Pear. The cross between
them took on a greatly increased vigour.

A Plum from France was grafted on a Kelsey
Plum, but the graft itself, thoTigh growing well,

bore no fruit. The stock, however, bore French
Plums instead, so that " the life of one entered
into and transformed the life of the other."

In making selections Mr. Harwood tells us
that Mr. Burbank "will choose the very best
from 100,000 seedlings with unerring eye in a
single day's time." But as his day's work, we
are told, is one of 10 or 11 hours — if we say 12 —
that would be 8,333 per hour, or 140 per minute,
or two per second, without stopping for one
second during the 12 hours !

An important question for scientists is whether
Mr. Burbank can support the Mendelian law.
The author says that he "has disposed of it";
but he seems to be confounding true hybrids be-
tween well-pronounced species used by Mr. Bur-
bank, and crosses between " varieties " of one
and the same species. He refers, for example,
tc Walnuts, the offspring of two distinct species
(English and Californian).

We are not aware that Mendel's law has ever
been tested between species, the rule of which
is that well-defined hybrids, sopner or later,
break up into a heterogeneous mass of dif-
ferences, which, as the author remarks, " show
no regard for law and order." If Mr. Burbank
proves anything it is that Mendel's law will not
apply to hybrids ; just as Galton's will not apply
to them.

Mr. Burbank has also refuted Weismann's
statement that characters accquired by the
" soma," i.e., the vegetative system in plants,
are never transmitted, because, he maintained,
that any external influence could not reach the
germ-and-sperm cells.

Mr. Burbank's experience being mainly with
crossings, his hybrids woild rather go to sup-
port Weismann's contention that the external
influence must be impressed on the so-called
" germ-plasm."

Better illustrations might be taken from bi-
ennial crops (as of roots) and foliage (as of
parsley), for numerous forms of these now come
true by seed, though they were all primarily ac-
quired b}' the soma, long before they could
flower in the second year, being biennials.

Again, Mr. Burbank is said to have apparently
upset De Vries' idea of Mutation ; but while
the former is dealing with hybrids, the latter is
concerned with sports of the " elementary
species " arising without any crossing at all.

He touches upon the subject of mimicry among
plants, but not with that idea, for he observes,
" A study of plants or animals belonging to
widely different species and even genera (e.g.,
Cactaceae in Mexico, Euphorbia and Stapelia in
East Africa), which have been under a similar
environment for a long time, will always show

a similarity in many respects Similar

environments produce similar results on the
life-forces, even with the most distantly re-
lated plants or animals. This fact alone should
be proof enough, if proof were still needed, that
acquired characters are transmitted." Evolu-
tion cannot be explained if it were not so.

It may be added that such is the conclusion
the " ecologists " of to-day have arrived at. Prof.
Warming thus speaks of Cactaceae, etc. : " I an-
swer briefly to the question, viz., whether these
adaptations to the medium, against loss by
transpiration, are to be regarded as a result of
natural selection, or whether they owe their
origin to the modifying action exercised directly
upon the forms by the conditions of the medium.
I adopt tilts latter manner of right."

In conclusion, it may be added that, besides
many writers who are most appreciative of Mr.
Burbank's remarkable personality and his
work, many others are not so affected with
" Burbankitis," as they call it, and find fault
with certain writers for their effusiveness, partly
from their over-zealousness to enhance Mr. Bur-
bank's reputation and partly from want of

88

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

tjANCAKY 20, 1906.

knowledge. Thus it is said that, the spineless
Opuntia, which Mr. Harwood attributes to Mr.
Burbank's skill, was a variety known before, and
was actually given to Mr. Burbank by the De-
partment of Agriculture.

However, as to Mr. Ilarwood's book, it is very
readable, but obviously written with a strong
personal feeling of admiration for the Call-
fornian experimenter and a complete disregard
of what has been done by Knight, Herbert,
Rivers, Laxtcn, Naudin, Dominy, Seden, Laing,
and very many others whose results are as re-
markable as any mentioned in this book. As-
tounding statements are made, but little or no
corroborative evidence is offered. They may
be true, we do not say they are not, but asser-
tion is not evidence. Indeed, if ever a man
bad occasion to be saved from his too zealous
friends it is Mr. Burbank. If we may judge
from the examples that have been exhibited
here, Mr. Burbank's success in developing new
varieties is not more than that attained by other
experimenters.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

DECIDUOUS SHRUBS FOR FORE-
GROUNDS AND SHRUBBERIES.
For this purpose may be recommended : — An-
dromeda arborea, A. speciosa, A. calyculata,
Berberis Thunbergi, Caryopteris Mastacanthus,
Clethra alnifolia. Comptonia asplenifolia, Daphne
Mezereum, Hypericum, Kerria japonica var.,
Ononis fruticosa, Potentilla fruticosa, Philadelphus
coronarius aureus, Spira3a Anthony Waterer, S.
buUata, Tamarix, Vaccinium corymbosum,
and Weigela "Eva Rathke."

TREES AND SHRUBS WITH ORNA-
MENTAL BARK.

The following plants are all of much value : —
Acer striatum, Betula alba and its varieties, B.
papyracea, Cornus sanguinea, Neillia opulifolia,
Rosa sericea, R. rubrifolia, Rubus biflorus, R.
leucodermis, R. phaenicolasius, R. " Schaffers
Colossal," and Salix alba britzensis. W.A.M.

The Week^s Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Vanda carulea and V. Watsoni. — V. coerulea
should be now in the Cattleya house, and in a
position where there is free circulation of air.
Fresh air at all times is undoubtedly one of the
principal requirements of this beautiful species.
The new white V. Watsoni is in flower ; it
appears to thrive well at the cool end of the
Cattleya house ; the plants are well rooted in
small pots, and are kept moderately moist at all
times.

Brarjlian Miltonias. — Among these there are
many beautiful varieties that are well worth more
extended cultivation than they now receive. Such
are M. Moreliana atro-rubens, M. spectabilis, M.
Lubbersiana, M. Peetersiana, M. Candida grandi-
flora. M. Russelliana, M. Clowesii. M. Regnellii,
M. bicolor, M. Veitcliiana, M. Lamarckiana, M.
Binotii, the new Gatton Park variety of M. Reg-
nellii, &c. Their flowering season is during the
autumn months, and the majority of the plants,
especially those with creeping rhizomes, have
comparatively little rest, for within a few weeks
after the flowers iave been cut the slow develop-
ment of their new growth commences. The
plants should now be examined to see if any of
them need more rsot-room, as the present time is
the proper season for repotting. .\1I of the strong
growing varieties may be grown in pots, but
shallow pans are preferable for the dwarfer kinds.
The receptacles stiould be made at least two-thirds
full with drainage material, consisting of a few large
pieces of crock placed over the bottom of the pot,
and afterwards well dried fern rhizome. .\s regards
compost, I have tried many sorts, and for several
years pjist the plants have succeeded very well in
what is known as American fetil (Osmunda regalis)

root fibre. This is pulled apart into lumps, and placed
firmly among the roots, hlhng up to within I inch
of the rhi,ome of the plant ; the space thus left
should be tilled close up to the base of the plant
with living sphagnum-moss made moderately fine
by cutting up. Keep the plants ele%ated a trifle
above the rim of the pots, with the base of the
bulbs just touching the moss on the surface, so
that the young ' breaks " that are now com-
mencing to grow will be free from anything that
is likely to cause them to rot. Some of the
dwarfer kinds, as M. spectabilis, should be allowed
considerable rooting space, as the growths rapidly
extend themselves in every direction, and any
plants thit have over-grown their pans cr
have b.^ome bare in the centre may be divided.
All useless bulbs and dead roots should be
cut away, and the growing pieces made up
into neat compact specimens. It is not neces-
sary to retain all the old bulbs, two or three behind
each young growth are quite sufficient. In re-
making up the specimens, some pieces will be foi nd
with but tew roots, and these must be pegged do\ n
to the compost, as they never succeed unless fixed
in a manner that will prevent them from shaking.
Wooden pegs made from old bass brooms 1 have
found the best means for securing them till the
roots have penetrated into the new material. If it
is found desirable to increase the stock of any par-
ticular variety, the severed pieces, if healthy, may
be placed in shallow pans filled with sphagnum-
moss and a little sand, and when growth has com-
menced pot them up as advised for the others.
M. cuneata should not be disturbed now, as the
spikes are in course of development. This section
of Miltonia will grow thoroughly well in a cool and
shady part of the intermediate house, for if placed
in a strong light the foliage becomes more yellow
than is desirable. For a considerable time after the
disturbance caused by repotting, the plants need
but little water. If the sphagnum-moss on the
surface be damped two or three times each week it
will be sufficient, and for this purpose the fine
sprayer now generally in use is the most suitable
apparatus. A very important item towards success
in growing these Miitonias is to see that the
numerous small roots now pushing forth are in no
way injured or eaten by woodlice or other insects.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to F. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.

Adiantum Ferns. — Any plants that have been
used for house decoration or around groups of
Chrysanthemums in the cool conservatory
should be allowed to become a little dry at the
roots, after which the fronds may be cut off the
plants. Examine the drainage, and if it is in
a good condition return the plants to a warm
house, where they will soon make new growth
and be found most useful in forming a ground-
work for setting up the early batch of
Gloxinias when these come into flower.

Poinsettias. — Let those plants which may have
been cut over for Christmas decorations be
placed together in a warm, dry position to
thoroughly mature and ripen their stems, as they
will eventually be used for supplying cuttings.
Afford the plants just sufficient water to keep
them from shrivelling without starting them into
growth.

Pot Roses. — If these have been well cared for,
and prepared for forcing, a batch may now be
placed in heat, and if given a start in a mild hot
bed made of clean leaves and short stable litter
the roots will soon become active. The moisture
arising from the bed of leaves also will be very
beneficial to the young growths, which will under
these conditions break much stronger. The
atmosphere of the house should not be warmer
than 30° at this stage. Air should be admitted to
the structure very carefully, seeing that fluctuations
in temperature are as a rule productive of mildew,
that great enemy to the Rose.

Camellias are found most serviceable at the
present season, when flowers for cutting are at
their lowest ebb. Chrysanthemums are past, and
only the early forced bulbs, &c., are supplying
our needs. As soon as the Camellias have
flowered, they should be placed in a position in a
moderately warm structure to make their growth.
They will then flower under natural conditions in
the winter season. This is important, for the
plants will not stand much forcing at this period
of the year without suffering disastrous results.

Chrysanthemums. — The earliest cuttings have

made roots, and should be given a position near
to the glass, where they may receive all the light
possible. Proceed with the potting of those which
made roots first ; and if any have been rooted in
boxes, care should be taken not to cramp the roots
by putting them into pots which are of too small a
size ; failure in the young plants to start away
into free growth is often the result of carelessness
at the first potting.

General reminders.- — Continue to stake up Freesias.
The prunings of Privet, if stripped of their leaves
and dried, provide excellent material for this pur-
pose. The watering of Primulas, Cinerarias, and
Calceolarias should be done carefully. Avoid
pouring the water into the centre of the plants.
Weak liquid manure, if applied twice each week,
will stimulate the plants into healthy growth and
induce them to flower freely.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, ban., Halley i^ark, Bedfordshire.

Pcaehes and Nectarines. — If fruits are required to
ripen in May, and the trees in the early houses have
not yet been started, this should be done at once,
commencing at first with a temperature at night of
from 40° to 45°, and permitting a rise of 10°
during the day. If the borders appear to be at all
dry, a thorough soaking should be given them with
tepid water. Syringe the trees twice daily unless the
weather is dull or wet, when once will be sufficient.
If such varieties as Early Alexandra Peach,
Advance, Cardinal, and Early Rivers Nectarines
are planted permanently in the early houses they
will ripen in the order named, provided the new
shoots have matured well, which is doubtless the
case if, having been kept free from overcrowding,
they have been exposed to the influence of the sun.
light, and air during the past summer and autumn
months. When I came to these gardens it was
found necessary to takedown a long range of fruit
houses, which contained some large Peach and
Nectarine trees, each of which covered a space of
about 9 yards wide by 7 yards in length. These
trees were very carefully removed to a new range
of fruit hoiises in the month of January. It was
rather late in the season to remove such large
specimens, but careful attention was given to
watering and syringing them afterwards, and they
carried good crops of fruit the same year, and in
each year which has followed. This experience
shows how late Peach trees may be removed suc-
cessfully if the work is done with care.

Second Peaeh House. — Let this be got into readi-
ness. Cleanse all the wood and trellis work and
paint the trees with a mixture of Sulphur, Gishurst
compound. Soft soap (thorougljly dissolved), clay
and a little soot, all of which should be mi.xed to-
gether to the consistency of paint. Brush the
mixture well into the crevices of the old wood.
Top-dress the border with loam and lime, adding
short cow manure to finish ofl with. There is
nothing gained by allowing the fruit bearing shoots
to be trained too closely together ; a distance of 5
or 6 inches apart is best.

Pine Stove. — This structure will now demand
attention, as early fruits are always appreciated.
Cleanse the house thoroughly and make up the
bed with fresh tan or good Oak leaves, making
them firm by treading, and when the bottom heat
has fallen to 90°, the pots can then be plunged
into the bed. Always select for the earliest batch
those plants having the stoutest stems. Before
water is applied to the roots let it be warmed to a
te nperature of 85°. The atmospheric temperature
at night should be 65°, and a rise of 15° may be
allowed during the day. Damp the walls and
paths occasionally on fine days, and admit a
little air to the structure when the weather is
fa\ourable,

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. CooK, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Currants and Gooseberries. — Keep a sharp look,
out for the birds, or at this season they will
destroy many buds. Where birds are trouble-
some, lose no time before trapping them, or as
a preventive cover the bushes with fine mesh
netting, or dust them with lime in the morning
when the branches are damp. If netting is put
over them, let it be raised sufficiently high that
other operations may be carried on con-
veniently, such as pruning and mulching, If'
some long poles be put into the ground, leaving
a length of about 6 feet above, and on the top ■

January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLt.

39

of these some pieces of deal be nailed cross-
ways, strong twine can be strained for the netting
to rest on. Peg the sides down to the ground,
so that the birds cannot get under the netting.
This may then be left in position, until the fruit
is gathered, and it will by that time have served
a double purpose.

The Pruning of Bush Fruits should be pushed
forward durmg suitable weather. Gooseberries
against walls are generally grown on the gridiron
style, that is, partly horizontal and partly perpen-
dicular. Good crops are obtained by this method,
and the fruit is more easily protected than when
the plants are grown as bushes. Nail in all the
terminal leada, which should be at 7 inches apart,
and prune the spurs back to about three or four
eyes.

Standard Gooseberry Trees should be secured to a
.strong stake in order to keep them upright, and
afford protection against wind. Thin out the
growths only, and do not shorten them. This
method not only looks well, but produces fruit of
the best quality.

Gooseberry BiisJies should be merely thinned out,
leaving the remaining branches intact, and cutting
back those not required to one eye ; this will pro-
duce a strong shoot for the succeeding year.
Bushes pruned in this manner bear well, and the
fruit is easy to gather. So long as strong, healthy
shoots can be obtained good fruit will result. If
the bushes are getting beyond bounds shorten the
branches in order to keep the bush of a good shape.

Raspberries. — It is not too late to plant Raspberry
stools, but if this is done the plants should not be
allowed to fruit in the present year. The ground
should have been well trenched and plenty of
good decayed manure mi.\ed with the soil. If the
canes are to be tied to wires plant in clumps of
five or six crowns together at 2 feet apart ; the
wires need not be put up this season. If the
growths are to be secured to stout stakes, plant
three to five, crowns together, at 5 feet apart,
.and allow 6 feet between the rows. Prune the
plants hard back, or even to the ground-line in
order to encourage strong vigorous shoots.

Medlars may still be planted. A site in a portion
of land where sewage is present suits this tree
perfectly. The "Dutch "and "Nottingham"
are good varieties.

Fruit-room. — Keep a keen eye on the fruit stores,
and collect all decaying fruits. Admit air daily,
and keep the atmosphere cool and dry.

S/of/is.— When seeds are sown for producing
stocks for buddmg or grafting, always select those
that grow most strong and healthy.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. GiusoN, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck .\bbey, Notts.

The Forcing Ground. — Such vegetables as
Rhubarb and Seakale are in constant demand,
and in large establishments there is usually
plenty of provision for meeting the supply, but
in small gardens it is not so often the case.
A simple method of keeping up a supply is by
throwing out a trench about 6 feet wide and
about 8 feet deep in the frame ground, and
filling this w'ith hot dung, planting over this in
the usual way and covering with boards, after-
wards putting more dung on the top. Splendid
produce can be had by these simple means.
Cover up Rhubarb crowns in the open with
long litter, which will hasten the growth by a
fortnight (see also p.46)-

French Beans. — The forcing of these will now be
a.n easier matter than it was earlier in the winter.
I prefer to use flat pans instead of deep pots at
this season, as Seans sown in January do not
require very much sail owing to the comparative
small amount of roots they make. The water drains
away more rapidly and the plants are therefore not
so liable to " damp " when placed in a close and
warm atmosphere. About eight seeds are sufficient
to sow in a lo-inch pan, and there is no need to make
allowance for top dressing in filling the pans, as
the stems will not throw roots with sufficient free-
dom to make it worth doing. The pans, therefore,
are best filled up to within an inch of the rims.
When making sowings later in the season the
deeper the pots used tiie better it will be, for there
will then be no fear of failure (rom the causes
already mentioned. Of varieties I like Osborne's
Forcing, to be followed by Ne Plus Ultra and
Canadian Wonder. The dwarf Sugar Bean may
be quite easily forced in the same manner, and it
makes an excellent " dish."

Seahalc. — The mushroom house offers most suit-
able conditions for blanching Seakale, but if a
little bottom heat can be given the Seakale will
need less time to become tit for consumption.
Excellent produce can be grown in deep frames
with a hot bed underneath, keeping the light
excluded by a covering of heavy mats or a good
thickness of straw. In any case the plants need
much atmospheric moisture, this having the effect
of increasing their tenderness. Rich soil is another
point that must be insisted upon.

Chicory. — Treat this in the same way as Seakale,
and to maintain a supply introduce fresh roots as
necessity requires. It they are grown in frames,
place 6 or 7 inches of light soil over the crowns,
to induce solidity of growth. The main crop of
Seakale and Chicory may be lifted, if this has not
yet been done, that the roots may be trimmed
and stored ready for forcing. A few of the best
crowns should be selected and planted closely
behind a north wall and blanched with leaf mould
so as to prolong the season as far as possible.
Cuttings of Seakale should be prepared at the
time of lifting in readiness for planting later on,
laying them in bundles in any spare corner free
from frost.

Endive. — Continue to lift Endive from the open
garden, and place the plants in frames. Blanching
can easily be done, either by covering with freshly
gathered leaves or tying the outer leaves over the
inner ones, keeping the frame dark. The plants
may also be easily blanched in anj' dark shed,
mushroom house, or outbuilding, but the atmo-
sphere must not be heated or the plants will damp
off.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

ByHuGH .\. Pin rir.REW, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Fagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

The "Annual" Flower Garden. — Having endea-
voured to suggest a few seasonable preparations
for the summer bedding, I will now draw attention
to "annuals." The garden, if it is devoted
mainly, but not exclusively, to hardy and half-
hardy annuals, should by this time be completed,
so that the soil will become mellow and settled by
the planting and sowing season. If there is any
re-modelling or there are any alterations of beds
and borders yet to be done, let the work be pushed
forward without delay. Remember that small beds
measuring iliree or four feet wide are best for the
dwarfer annuals, especially when each bed is
devoted entirely to one kind. Larger annuals may
have larger beds, so that they will not be cramped
or have their individual beauty impaired. It is
essential also, in order to make the most of the
"Annual" Flower Garden, that a few borders
should possess sufficient width and breadth to
afford scope for the exercise of good taste in
bringing together annuals of difterent colours,
shades of colour, and habit of growth. As for the
parterre bedding system, it is equally necessar\'
for the Annual Flower Garden that plans should
be made of the contemplated displays and
effects for the coming season, so that the
half-hardy flowers to be used in its decora-
tion should be propagated at the proper time,
exactly in the quantities required for planting out.
If this is not done, there will either be an
insufficient supply of certain plants or, almost
as bad, much precious time will be wasted in
pricking out or potting oft" a quantity of plants
the ultimate consignment of which will be to the
rubbish heap. In preparing one's plans inspect
the collection of seeds saved last autumn and
note the requirements, so that if necessary seeds,
especially those of half-hardy annuals, may be
ordered without further delay. No collection of
half-hardy annuals should be without the follow-
ing plants : — Asters in sorts, Abronia umbellata,
Alonsoa Warscewiczii compacta, Anagallis gran-
diflora Phillipsii. .\rctotis grandis. Antirrhinum —
particularly self-coloured pink and red varieties —
Browallia, Catananche ccerulea. Marguerite Car-
nations, Commelina coelestis, Cosmea, Pentstemon
(pink shades), Diascia Barberje, Delphinium,
Queen of the Blues, Dianthus Heddewigii, Gaura
Lindheimeri, Petunia, Hollyhock. Lantana
hybrida, Lobelia, Marigold (African and French),
Marvel of Peru, Mesembryanthemum tricolor,
Mina lobata. Nemesia strumosa (in distinct
colours), Nicotiana — particularly N. Sanderae
— Phlox Drummondi (in distinct colours), Rho-
danthe. Salvia farinacea, and S. Horminum,
Salpiglossis, Scabious, Schizanthus, the different
kinds of Stocks. Tagetes, Verbena, and Zinnia.

It v;i!l be noticed that some of the above-named
plants are perennials, but they are each capable of
being treated as half-hardy annuals.

THE APIARY.

By Chlobis.
A Keview »/ the Past Year's Honey. — ^The past
season produced varying results. Those who live
in places where the soil is gravelly or sandy felt
the drought severely,* while others who were
living on rich loamy soils had some excellent
results. Let us hope all have sold their honey
profitably. Personally, I am about £S to the
good, and find that during the last sL\ years I
have disposed of a little more than half-a-toa of
honey and am in pocket ^^50.

Painting the Hives. — Nothing will bring on disease
sooner than dampness, which is the forerunner of
dysentery. Before painting, rub the hives well
with rough sandpaper, and scrape off any loose
paint. Make the first coat thinly, mixing equal
quantities of linseed oil and turpentine, and, as
the weather is bad at this time of the year, add
about an eggcupful of gold size to make it set
quickly ; about i lb. of white lead will be needed
for any ordinary hive. Let the colour be
thoroughly mixed and strain well before using. If
it be necessary to have it coloured, use a little lamf>-
black to produce a slate colour, or sienna to bring
about a good stone tint. It is generally best not
to use boiled oil as it is liable to blister in the sun.
After the first coat put putty in the cracks and lay
a strip of old calico, wetted with paint, over the
joints, and the hives will be watertight.

Entrances. — Keep these free of dead bees, but
disturb the inmates as little as possible.

Feeding. — Those who did their work well before
the autumn had become cold will have no fear
of starving bees. Others should only slip under
the quilts a cake of candy or better still a piece
of comb containing honey, and this only in good
weather.

Preparing Frames. — In connection with all bee
operations it is well to be prepared for the honey
season, and I know of nothing which is more care-
lessly done, when done in a hurry, than fitting
up frames with foundation. To produce straight
combs should be our object, and to do this it is a
very good plan to wire the foundation in. Needless
to say the most economical way of fitting up is to
use full sheets of foundation for two reasons, one is
because, in the long run, it is by far the cheapest;
and, in the second, it will secure a greater propor-
tion of cells for worker bees. Cut out a V-shaped
piece on the top of the foundation in the centre
and a piece off the corners [see fig. 22 (i)] . Open
the split top of the frame with a wide nail and slip
the foundation well through, leaving a piece about
;J^ of an inch above the frame [see fig. 22 (2)] .

To make the foundation secure in fhe top bar
run a hot poker slowly along the split to melt the

^

^

lUv"\/'^^^'

-B-

FlG.

22.^PREPAKING FRAMES.
(See text.)

protruding piece of ccmb. This done, bore three
holes in each side about 2 inches apart. Use
No. 30 tinned wire, and after the wire has been
draun moderately tight use an embedder which
has been heated in a candle flame, and pass along
the wire to make it embed itself in the foundation.
About 8 ounces of this wire will be sufficient for
100 frames. In fig. 22 the letters A, B, C repre-
sent the strands of wire. When the foundation is
wired-in, thinner sheets may be used, otherwise it
is not safe to use thinner than that which is eight
sheets to the pound.

40

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as mcll as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by lite writer. Ij desired, the sigtMture will not be
printed, but kepi as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— Tfe Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illuslrations, unless by
special arrangement. Tlu Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

tUtistTations.-The Editor tvill be glad to receive andto select
photograplis or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c. : but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

HevispSL\>eTS.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to ou r reatiers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY, Jan..3{^°^ot„re'itLr '°°"'''^
,.,r.T,x,T^cT^Av T J Annual Dinner Croydon Horticul-

WEDNESDAV, Jan. 24 \ tural Society.
FRIDAY, Jan. 26 Royal Botanic Society meet.

(Annual Meeting National Auricula
Society (Northern Section), at
Manchester.
Dutch Gardeners' Society meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 37'9°.
Actual Temperatures: —

l.osT>oti.— Wednesday, Jan. 17 (6 p.m.): Max. iT ; Min.
39*.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday. Jan. 18 (10
a.m.): Bar., 296: Temp., 49°; Weather— Much
rain, with high winds.
Provinces.— WeiiiiESiia;', /(111. 17 (6 p.m.): Max. 46" Isle
of Wight ; Min. 39° N. Coast of Scotland.

SALES'

MONDAY NEXT—

Hardy Border and Herbaceous Plants, Lilies, Roses,
Azaleas, Fruit Trees, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G.,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Sale of Roses, Lilies, Shrubs, &c., at Steven's Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Carnations, Pinks, Hardy Border and Herbaceous Plants,
Liliums, Begonias, Gloxinias, &c., at 12. 3,000 Roses
and Fruit Trees, at i and 3, also Azaleas, Rhododen-
drons, Palms and Plants, by Protheroe & Morris, at
67 and 63, Cheapside, E.G.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Roses, Azaleas, Herbaceous and other Plants. Peren-
nials, &c., by Protheroe & Morris, at 67 and 68, Cheap-
side, at 12.

The management of Apple or-
Apple chards is carried on in the
Orchards. United States not only on a
larger scale than in this coun-
try but also more systematically. This is
well illustrated by a " Bulletin " issued by the
Agricultural Experiment Station of the Col-
lege of Agriculture connected with Cornell
University.

The document in question has been pre-
pared by Mr. G. F. Warren and Mr. W. E.
McCourt, the last-named gentleman dealing
especially with the geology of Wayne
County, wherein are situate the orchards
principally studied.

The demand for fresh fruit in the States
has more than kept pace with the increase
of population, so that, in the census year
19CO. whilst the population was, roughly
speaking, more than seventy-five and a half
millions (a gain of 52 per cent, in ten years),
the value of orchard products was nearly
eighty-four million of dollars (a gain for the
same period of over 64 per cent). The
growth and development of Apple culture are
fully dc.ilt with in a separate chapter, which

shows not only how rapid has been the pro-
gress but also how comparatively recent was
its origin. Tillage, manuring, pruning,
spraying, planting, and cultural operations,
leasing and renting, all receive attention, as
well as information relating to the soils and
aspects, the varieties grown, the fungus and
insect pests, the markets, and the prices ob-
tained. In order to give a bettvi notion of
the contents of this " Bulletin," we may here
extract the " condensed conclusion " arrived
at by the reporter : — •

" Tillage, fertilization, pruning and spraying
are the chief factors that enter into good care
of an orchard. One or more of these may
sometimes be omitted or poorly done without
any serious results. To some extent tillage
may replace fertilizers, or vice versa. A thrifty
orchard may resist the attacks of disease. In
some years there are few insects or fungi, so that
spraying is not so much needed. A farmer fre-
quently gets good res'jlts from some one of
these factors, and becomes so impressed with
its importance that he makes a hobby of it, to
the exclusion of all the others. But the most
successful Apple-grower is the man who keeps
a proper balance betweea all four agencies, and
does not expect good care in one respect to
make up for neglect in other ways.

" But these factors are not all. The success-
ful man must study ; he must learn something
of the life-processes of the Apple-tree ; he must
know the most serious insect and fungous di-
seases, and why certain treatment is effective in
combating them ; he must know something of
the drainage, humus, and other soil-problems.
No set rules can cover all these poiats. The
Apple-grower must go into the orchard and get
acquainted with his trees. As one farmer ex-
pressed it, he mast go into the orchard occa-
sionally, and say to his trees, ' Good morning !
Is there anything that you would like to-day ? '
There are many more or less successful far-
mers who never really see the Apple-tree — they
look only to the crop. Any treatment that will
temporarily increase the crop seems to them to
be good ; but this very treatment may be destroy-
ing the prospects for future crops. Nor is suc-
cess in orcharding wholly dependent on a large
crop. There is a business side to the question.
Does it pay to grow cheap Apples to be evapor-
ated or to be sold at the lowest market price, or
would it pay better to grow a first-class article
that costs more but then commands the highest
price? A few men in each county are known as
growers of good Apples. Some other men grow
just as good Apples and yet have no reputa-
tion. Sometimes it is because their ' firsts '
and ' seconds ' all get into one barrel ; some-
times it is because the growers are not known.
The grower of good Apples should establish a
business reputation that will bring buyers to
him, and make a competition for his product.
" Last of all, let me urge the advisability of
keeping an account with the orchard, and with
the other important crops. See which crops
really pay. If the Apple orchard proves to be
the most profitable crop, then give it first at-
tention.

" The -most progressive fruit-grower studies
his business, not only in his own orchard, but
in every way possible. To keep abreast of the
progress made in orchard management, he must
know what other orchardists are doing, and
must be familiar with the results of experiment
station work."

Royal Botanic Society. — Dr. Fancoort
Barnes has presented this Society with a cheque
for /i, 000 from his father, Dr. Robert Barnes,
in memory of Mr. Philip Barnes, one of the
original founders of the Royal Botanic Society, and

also as evidence of the continuing interest of the-
family in the society and their confidence in its-
council.

The Sweet Pea Annual. — This is the
official organ of the National Sweet Pea Society
and is in its second edition. It affords evidence of
the still growing popularity of the Sweet Pea and
contains much cultural information. We note
articles on Cross-fertilization and Sweet Peas,
in Canada, by Lester L. M . Morse . Mr. Massee-
contributes a paper on the fungoid diseases of the
Sweet Pea. There are many illustrations, and a
portrait of Mr. Alfred Watkins, president of
the society, is given as a frontispiece. Other
portraits of well-known growers are also to-
be found in these pages which are lightened by
various poetic effusions. Amid so much that is
useful or interesting it is difi&cult to make a
selection, but we shall at any rate be doing a
service by repeating Mr. G. Stanton's 12 words:
trench deeply, manure liberally, plant thinly,
stake quickly, water freely, dispod promptly.

WiLLiNG'S Press Guide. — This most useful
work will be found acceptable to all connected
with magazines and newspapers. It supplies a
concise and comprehensive index to the Press of
the United Kingdom, and it even includes a list
of Colonial and Foreign journals. The thirty-
third annual edition seems in no way behind
its predecessors in clearness and comprehensiveness.
It is published at 125. Strand. London.

British Weather Chart.— Mr. Jenkins has
a?am published his Weather Chart for the coming,
season, and a card calendar showing the days of
the week of every day of the month for 25 years.
We have no doubt that these will prove useful'
for reference in many offices and other business
places.

WeBSTERS FORESTER'S PoCKET DlARY. —
This is a very compact and useful publication,
containing many details of importance to all con-
cerned in forestry, as well as a diary and the usual
items of information that are sought in a calendar.
Here and there some misprints have escaped th&
proof-reader, particularly on page 21, where
several of the names of Fungi are mis-spelt, and it
is an oversight to speak of the "berries" of the^
Laburnum as poisonous. Writing on the question
of afforesting waste land the author suggests that
the State should acquire and plant suitable waste
lands at the rate of 40,000 acres annually for a
period of 25 years. The purchase of such land,
would entail a cost, on the average, of forty
shillings an acre. Mr. Webster estimates that for
the first 20 years no return will be derived from
hillside plantings. From 25 to 40 years an annual
return of fully 12 shilUngs an acre has been forth-
coming, whilst the value of the standing crop was
found to be about ;^6o per acre. We commend -
Mr. Webster's notes on afforesting, and the re-
turns to be expected from it, to the notice of all
concerned, and especially to those desirous of
finding profitable work for the unemployed, and.
of turning to ultimate use land that is now practi-
cally useless. The book is published by Messrs-:
Rider & Son, 164, Aldersgate Street.

The Rainfall in 1905. — That so many
gardeners now record and tabulate the climatic
conditions prevalent in their gardens, is a sign of
the interest and value attached by an ever-increas-
ing number to the proper study and observation of
meteorological conditions. Although these condi- .
tions vary from a multitude of causes, they form » :
valuable guide, nevertheless, especially when con- '
ducted over a number of years, such as, for in- '
stance, those recorded in the old Chiswick Gar- ^
dens of the Royal Horticultural Society. It is.
curious and inslnictive to notice with what great .
regularity the "means" of a period of over
40 years taken in these gardens ascend and
descend in the recorded scale according to the '

January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

41

season of the year. Many of our readers have
kindly forwarded to us the record of the rainfall
in their immediate neighbourhood for the past
year, and though our limited space will not allow
of these being given in detail, we have pleasure in
appending the totals. Mr. H. Harris, The
Gardens, Denne Park, Horsham, Sussex, records
2y66 inches, with the remark that 2'84 inches
fell on the first seven days of the new year;
Mr. C. A. Bayford, Shugborough Gardens,
Stafford, registered 2y]S> inches ; Mr. J. B.
Lowe, D'Abernon Chase Gardens, Leatherhead,
registered 2346 inches, as against 2468 inches
in 1904 ; Mr. A. B. Wadds, The Gardens,
Paddockhurst, Sussex, 27-51 inches. Paddock-
hurst enjoyed 1,469 hours of bright sunshine,
recorded on 236 days. The wettest day in these
gardens was June 6, when there were i'22 inches
of rain. Mr. W. J. Short, Freeland Lodge Gar-
dens, Woodstock, sends 23-98 inches as his recorded
total, against 26-37 inches in 1904. Warwick-
shire was apparently drier than most counties,
for only 21-63 inches fell in Hampton Manor
Gardens, Hampton-in-Arden. Mr. Neil Sinclair
in his note says : " The greatest fall during
24 hours was on July i, when 094 inches fell."
The highest amount of sun-heat was on July 11
and 25 when the thermometer stood at 130°.
The highest shade temperature was 80° registered
on June 22, the lowest 14° on January 20. Mr. W.
A. Cook, Leonardslee Gardens, Sussex, records
147 wet days, during which period 24-74 inches
of rain fell, almost identical with 1904, when
24*80 inches were registered. The average rain-
fall in these gardens for the past 12 years
is 28*30 inches. The maximum temperature
was 139° on July 27. The highest night
temperature was 64° on July 2. The highest
temperature of the soil was 65° on July 15,
which high temperature continued until August 4.
Mr. H. Wilson, Cole Orton Hall Gardens,
Ashby-de-la-Zouch, recorded 22-27 inches, the
wettest month being August when there were
330 inches of rain. The number of wet days in
these gardens totalled 179. Mr. John Jeffery,
Idlerocks Gardens, North Staffordshire, registered
134 wet days, during which period 2665 inches of
rain fell. August was also the wettest month in
these gardens, the fall during that month amount-
ing to 506 inches. It is interesting to note that
the amount registered during 1904, viz., 2616
inches, approximated to that recorded during 1905,
but the number of wet days in these gardens last
year was 134 compared with only 107 in 1904.
Mr. H. Parr sends the record of rain falling in
Trent Park Gardens, New Barnet, Herts., as 26-5
inches. Mr. James Smith, F. R. Met.Soc, Crathes.
Aberdeenshire, has compiled some interesting
meteorological notes. Had it not been that Novem-
ber was an abnormally wet month, with a rainfall
of 9-41 inches, instead of an average of 3-34
inches, the past year would have been the driest
recorded at Crathes since observations were com-
menced in 1900. At certain periods of the year
water was exceedingly scarce, old springs dried
up, and gravitation supplies failed. Many persons
had to cart water from a considerable distance,
not only for live stock but for personal use. The
rainfall for the district was 2S-6 inches, the
number of rainy days being 21S.

Bulletins d'Arboriculture, etc. — We

notice witli much regret an announcement that the
December number of this useful periodical is to be
the last. It was founded in 1S64 by four of the
professors of the Ghent School of Horticulture —
four men of great enthusiasm, activity, and intelli-
gence. They constituted what was familiarly
known as the four-leaved Shamrock. One after
the other Van Holle, Pvnaert, Rodigas have
been called away, till M. Borvenich, the eminent
pomologist, alone remains. For some time he
continued to edit the publication. At length the

death of his son Jules Burvenich, the Curator of
the Botanic Garden, to whom the father looked
for assistance, has induced M. BnRVENicH to retire
from his post. The note in which he announces
his intention is touching, and conveys a feeling of
sadness to those among us who had the privilege
of the friendship of each of the four professors.
M. Burvenich may, at least, look back with satis-
faction on his 40 years of labour. Much was
attempted and much was done — and well done. It
is to us a matter for as much surprise as regret
that the Committee of the "Cercle" have decided
to discontinue the publication. The last words of
the address are "Place aux jeunes," but -we do
not hear that the young are coming forward to
supply the place of their predecessors. Surely
there is no lack of enthusiasm and capability in
the younger race of Belgians.

The Attractions of Jamaica. — Jamaica in
1905, is the title of a " Handbook of Information
for intending Settlers and Visitors," written by
Mr. Frank Cundall, and obtainable from H.
SoTHERAN & Co., 140, Strand, W.C. The
pamphlet gives a favourable i»ccount of the cli-
mate of the island, and has special reference to
the possibilities offered by agriculture and plant-
ing in general. An account of the history and
geography is included, as well as a large scale
map of Jamaica. The Royal Mail Steam Packet
Company, 18, Moorgate Street, E.G., forward an
attractive time table and description of tours in
the West Indies. The beauties of climate and
scenery and the pleasures of life in general are
recommended both to tourists and settlers in the
islands. The same company also publish a
handy little pamphlet on West Indian Fruit and
Produce that contains some useful recipes.

My Garden Diary for 1906. — Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Reading, again offer their friends
a diary full of useful gardening hints for every
month, in a very pretty cover, and with a pleasing
frontispiece. Implicit confidence may be placed
on the cultural notes, and the diary and calendar
accompanying them will also be found acceptable
to amateurs.

Pictorial Practical Flower Gardening. —

This book is one of a series of ' ■ Pictorial Practical ' '
handbooks, and should prove as popular and useful
as the earlier volumes. The authors, Messrs.
W. P. Wright and Edward J. Castle, claim
that their w-ork shows concise arrangement and
abundant practical illustration, and they demon-
strate how even the smallest of flower-gardens
may be made beautiful. Certainly the subject is
inexhaustible, so that these experienced writers,
aided by their many illustrations, are sure of an
appreciative public. The publishers axe Cassell
& Co., Ltd.

Proposed Agricultural Settlement. —

Miss Edith Bradley, whose interest in field and
garden work for women is well known, is sending
out a pamphlet relating to a Scheme for an Agri-
cultural Settlement. This, described in brief, is
an estate wherein shall be congregated men and
women fully trained in agriculture, horticulture,
dairying, poultry and bee-keeping, fruit culture
and preserving ; who shall rent plots of ground,
with or without dwellings thereon, and shall make
a Hving out of the land under the most favourable
circumstances of modem up-to-date methods.
Capital, labour, and ability are to combine to render
such a plan possible. It is proposed that the settle-
ment shall be in the Midlands, in one of the districts
or counties that were included in the great Saxon
kingdom of Mercia, and the name suggested for it
is the Mercia .Agricultural Settlement. Co-opera-
tion is a great feature of the plan, both as regards
the various pursuits undertaken and the domestic
economy of the settlement. K bank, sick fund, old
age and pension fund are details of Miss Bradley's
plans ; her idea of expenses being to start with

from /io,ooo to /2o,ooo for essentials, and to in-
crease this amount and the general scope of the
undertaking as success becomes more assured.
Those of our readers who desire to know more of
"The Mercians," should write for particulars to
Miss Br.^vdley, care of The Studley Castle Agri-
cultural Association. We suppose this address to
be sufficient, as none more definite is mentioned in
the circular before us.

Checking Wireworms by Means of
Fertilizers. — The last issue of the Woman' i
Agricultural Times gives the abstract of a lec-
ture, given under the auspices of the Essex.
County Council, by Mr. W. J. Moss, oni
the prevention of injury by wireworm. The-
speaker discovered that after the use of
an American fertilizer-drill of a pattern
■which sows the artificial manure down
the conveyor tube with the com to the coulters,
the resulting crop was notably free from attacks
of wireworm. The pest had been checked in a
curious manner. The field, when treated, was
badly overgrown with weeds ; the Barley {which,
as it happened, was the crop sown) proved un-
inviting to the wireworm, owing to the acid in.
the manure with which it was treated ; the pest,
being there and hungry, had to feed upon what
they could get, and ended by clearing off nearly
the whole of the weeds. " Since that time,"
says Mr. Moss, " 1 have had no fear of wire-
worm in a Corn crop. I have simply used a
fertilizer-drill and deposited the artificial manure
down the coulters with the Corn, and the wire-
worms have helped to clear the field of weeds.
I have not proved that artificial manure is ini-
mical to the -mreworm, but this is not important
if the presence of the creature can be made to
assist in the economy of the farm and the pest
be converted into a friend. I believe superphos-
phate is sufficient for the purpose ; but I have
found a ' complete ' manure the best to adopt
and the most economical, as the increased yield
obtained invariably more than compensates for
the increased outlay." ,

Royal Horticultural Society. — The next
meeting of the Committees will be on January 23.
Mr. Martin H. Sutton will lecture at 3 p.m.
on " The Formation and Care of Lawns and Golf
Greens."

The Fruit Industry. — We have received the
following letter from the Board of Agriculture
and Fisheries, 4, Whitehall Place, London, S.W. :
"I am directed by the Board of Agriculture and
Fisheries to acquaint you that they have been in
communication with the Postmaster-General with
reference to the recommendation made by the
recent Departmental Committee on the Fruit
Industry as to the desirability of the further ex-
tension of the telephone system in country districts,
and that the Board are informed that for some
years past the Post Office has been steadily extend-
ing the trunk wire system to small provincial
towns, and building up local Exchange systems in
rural districts which had previously been left un-
touched. There has been increased activity in
this branch of Post Ofi&ce expansion since, in
March, 1904, Parliament granted additional funds
for the development of the telephone system, and it
is now in operation in a considerable number of
towns. Among other extensions benefiting fruit
growers an Exchange system has been established in
the district of S-wanley, Farningham, Hextable and
Crockenhill, also at Westerham, Kent and Winch-
combe in Gloucestershire. In some cases the
distance of towns or villages from any existing
trunk wire centre renders the cost of extensions
prohibitive, but as the system of main wires ex-
tends, these difficulties will diminish. The Post-
master General informs the Board that he will be
glad to receive any specific suggestions as to further
improvement which may be submitted on behalf
of fruit growers, and also as to the localities

'42

THE GARBMl^itS CHRONICLE.

[JanOaky 20, 1906.

where the need of the telephone for the pur-
poses cf this industry are most pressing. The
Board would be glad if they might be favoured
with any information which your readers may
be in a position to supply as to particular places
where the introduction of a telephonic service
would be attended with special advantage to fruit
growers, and also to receive any suggestions
generally on the subject, I may add that the
Board are addressing a similar communication
to the principal fruit and horticultural associations
and societies.— I am, sir, your obedient servant,
(signed), T. H. Elliott, secretary."

Town and Country Life. — The disadvan-
tages of overcrowding cities and depopulating
country villages are a constant theme of discus-
sion and constitute a serious problem. The " Gar-
den City " is an attempt to solve the difficulty by
ensuring tflat new towns shall be accompanied
by sufficient open spaces to ensure healthful and
sightly surroundings. It is not so much room
that is lacldng, but a redistribution of the town
and country areas. " We talk about the stately
homes of England," says Mr. Ridee IIagcakd
in the " Garden Cily," " but what I should like to
see greatly multiplied are the humble homes of
England. It is our duty to multiply those hum-
ble homes, and ,to make sure that the land is
devoted to the original purpose for which Pro-
vidence gave it, for the production of men, wo-
men, and children. There is plenty of room
for pheasants, but there is also plenty of empty
room that can be occupied by men and women."
The buildings necessary to accommodate the
peopk should be considered not merely from
the standpoint of the individual but from that
of the whole population. Instead of the incon-
veniences inevitable from the gradual growth of
old towns, new settlements should start with
every possible advantage. On another page of
the publication quot-ed above we read that —
" Local conditions — inherited street plan, topo-
graphy, the location of railroad stations, and
many other factors — determine which plan is
best for any particular city, but quick trans-
portation demands the development of civic cen-
tres with a system of avenues radiating from the
business and other important local centres, and
towards this end European cities are working.
It is also advisable that boulevards should be so
planned as to connect the parks of a city."
That it is possible, by gradually improving
old-established neighbourhoods and by laying
out new ones with due prevision, to combine con.
venience and effectiveness is, it is said, demon-
strated at Letchworth. In the Garden City
Estate Professor Patrick Geddes considers
that : "The union of the claims of the past and
present is being happily managed in a way which
shows how heedless and how wasteful are the
proceedings of the ordinary suburban buUder,
whose supposed sacrifice of beauty to utility and
gain is often tut the most wastefully extravagant
sacrifice by brutish worshippers to a dim ideal,
that of mechanical aestheticism, of dreary regu-
larity. Here old trees are preserved, picturesque
hedgerows stand undemolished, the common re-
mains with its shady lanes and labyrinths and
open glades ; its wealth of wild flowers are
left to be a joy to the lover of nature, and all this
with an economy to the company where your
speculative builder visually spends money freely
to destroy'."

Annals of the Royal Botanic Garden,
Calcutta. — A new instalment of this valuable
publication has lately been issued. The
volume, of which this is the second part, is
dedicated to Sii George Ki.ng, who for twenty-
seven years had charge of the garden. The part
before us is devoted to a monographic enumera-
tion of the Acotlites of India by pr. Stajpf., The
importance of beiiig'" atile to aiscriminate tlie

species is shown by the fact that whilst some
species are extremely poisonous others are rela-
tively, at least, innocuous. From this point of
view the microscopic anatomy of the tubers is
of material value, so that in addition to the ex.
ternal characters of the several species Dr.
Staff has also given details of their anatomical
structure so far as is necessary for the purposes
of discrimination. According to the differences
in the root characters the Aconites are divided
into three sections — (1) Lycoctonum, with peren-
nial roots ; (2) Napellus, with biennial tuberous
roots in pairs — each tuber producing normally
one simple or rarely branched stem ; (3) Gym-
naconitum, with annual fusiform roots. The de-
scriptions are very elaborate, and a great deal
of information is given as to the geographical
distribution of the species, the vernacular names
and the properties of the several species, h
very copious bibliography, a list of the vernacu-
lar names, and an index complete a monograph
which is further illustrated by 24 quarto litho-
graphic illustrations drawn by Miss Sm.th. Lt.-
Col. Prain (the new director of ICew) supplies
an account of the life of Dr. Buchanan Hamil-
ton, who succeeded RoxBUltCH as superinten-
dent, and was himself followed shortly after by
Wallich (1816). The letters here printed are of
great botanical interest. During his residence in
Nepal he collected largely, and his specimens
formed the basis of Don's Prodromus Florae
Nepalensis.

Refrigerating Apparatus. — The students of
the West of Scotland College of Pharmacy, says
the Journal of the Pharmaceutical Society, paid a \isit
to the "Telemon" in the Queen's Dock for a
lesson in practical physics, viz., the refrigerating
apparatus on a fruit-carrying ship. In theory, the
process was seen to be very simple. Liquid
carbon dioxide is allowed to evaporate from its
original container into the "condenser," where
under a pressure of 75 atmospheres, it is condensed
to a liquid, the process being assisted by the
cooling action of sea-water. The liquid is now
allowed to escape through pipes laid in large tanks
of brine, which is thereby cooled to a very low
temperature, the now gaseous dioxide returning to
the condenser to be liquefied once more. The
cooled brine is in turn led through a series of
tubes, and between these the air in the hold of
the ship is forced by fans, and is thereby kept at a
temperature of between 40° and 43° F. At this
temperature the fruit can be brought with perfect
safety from Australia or other distant port of ship-
ment. In order to avoid absorption of heat from
the engine room, etc., the whole apparatus is
enclosed in boxes with double walls, between
which there is a 9-inch layer of fine charcoal, the
walls of the hold itself being protected in the same
way.

Monograph on Tobacco. — Dr. Prof. O.
Comes has published a handsome monograph on
the species of Tobacco (Delle Razze dei Tabacchi,
filogenesi, qualita ed uso), describing the various
species and varieties in cultivation, and tracing
them to their indigenous and original forms. The
work is abundantly illustrated and should prove
of great value to all concerned in this important
industry. Professor Comes' monograph is ad-
dressed primarily to botanists and should prove
a standard reference book for them, and, in-
cidentally, for cultivators also. It is published
by the Societa Co-operativa Tipografica, Naples.

A Good Response for Gardening Chari-
ties.— The members of the Altrincham and
Bowdon Gardeners' Improvement Society have
raised, by means of dramatic performances, held
on December 5 and 6, 1905, a sum of /^5o in aid of
the gardening charities. Of this sum the Gardeners'
Royal Benevolent Institution benefits to the ex-
tent of /'31 los,, while the handsome amount of
£ji is given to the Royal Gardeners' Orphan

Fund. Thesurplusof/iJ 5s. is applied to the local
Orphan and Emergency Fund. Altrincham has
always done well in these matters, but the amount
available for distribution this year shows an in-
crease of /12. It would be a great help to these
deserving institutions if other gardening societies
would follow the example of Altrincham. At the
annual meeting of the Gardeners' Royal Benevo-
lent Institution, which is being held as these pages
are printed, there are 44 candidates seeking relief,
but of this number it appears that help can only
be extended to iS.

BOTRYTis cinerea. — The December number
of the (Enophile contains an article by Dr. Gy de
IsTVANFFi upon the treatment necessary to be
adopted in the case of vines affected with grey-
rot. In summer the fungus lives on decaying
foliage and on weeds — so that it is recommended
that these should be at once destroyed. In wet
weather the fungus attacks the living leaves and
in autumn the berries. Moreover, in autumn it
forms small hard nodules called " sclerotes," whicli
persist during the winter in the shoots that are
left and form new spawn (mycelium) and conidia
(bud-spores) in the following spring. The vines
should be washed over with a 5 per cent, solution
of bisulphite of lime. Bordeaux mixture may be
employed as a spray on the berries, or bisulphite
of soda may be applied in the form of powder.
But preventive measures and the destruction by
fire of all affected leaves, shoots, &c., are the most
effective measures to be adopted.

Publications Received. — A useful Blotter,
Almanac, &c., from W. Wood & Son, Ltd., Horti-'
cultural Sundriesmen, Wood Green, London. — Th6
Book of Cut Flo'ivcrs, by R. P. Brotherston ; published
by T. N. Foulis, Edinburgh and London. — The Garden
Album and Review. A monthly periodical, with
coloured plates. Price 7d. nett.

NOVELTIES OF 1905.

(Concluded from page 27.)
Hardy Plants.

The most remarkable horticultural event of
recent years, so far as new plants are concerned,
has been the introduction ot so many new and
pretty hardy plants from China by Messrs. Jas.
Veitch & Sons, of Chelsea, through their collector,
Mr. E. H. Wilson, whose account of his travels
now being given in the Gardeners' Chronicle gives
pleasure to a large number of garden-lovers.
The genus Primula has been greatly added to
by P. pulverulenta, P. Cockburniana, P. Veitchii,
P. vittata, P. deflexa, and P. tangutica, which
Messrs. Veitch are now distributing, along with
the pretty rose-purple coloured Geranium platy-
anthum, Artemisia lactiflora, Rodgersia sesculi-
folia, and R. pinnata alba. Other fine novelties
brought into notice during 1905 by Messrs,
Veitch (though some were figured in these pages
in 1904) are the handsome Meconopsis punicea,
M. integrifolia, and Buddleia variabilis magnifica,
all of which secured First Class Certificates ; Senecio
(Ligularia) speciosa, Liliumleucanthum, L. sutchu-
enense. Lobelia tenuior rosea, Astilbe grandis, and
others, most of which have been described in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, and references will be founcf
in the appended li';t of illustrations. Messrs.
Veitch are also distributing the handsome Deutzia
discolor major, VitisHenryana, V. flexuosaWilsoni,
Lonicera tragophylla, Rubus lasiostylus, and other
fine hardy plants.

Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, of Highgate, had
awards for Adonis amurensis, Pulmonaria arvensis
alba, and some other hardy plants, including the
fine Carnations General Kuroki and Lord Charles
Beresford. both good for outdoor and greenhouse
culture

Mr. Amos Pbrrv, Winchmore Hill, has de-
veloped new tints in Autumn Asters, and obtained
Awards of Merit for Aster aub-coeruleus and
1-ietonica spicata robusta.

January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Messrs. Kelway & Son, Langport ; Ware,
Feltham ; R. Wallace & Co., Colchester, and
others have contributed much to the improve-
ment of garden-flowers.

Florlsts' Flowers.

Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Roses, Carnations,
Begonias and other of the large classes have
been satisfactorily increased by cultivators of
the different classes of plants, and most of these
have been reported at various times in the Gav~
dcncrs' Chronicle, many of the best being now
enumerated in the list of good subjects illustrated
in 1905. Of tliose which have received Awards
it is at present impossible to say how many will
become standard varieties for general cultiva-
tion, though all showed distinctive merits as
novelties. Mr. Jas. Douglas, of Edenside, Great
Bookham. took the lead with Auriculas and Car-
nations and secured many Awards. In Carnations
he has arrived at the point formerly considered to
be impossible, viz., a specially-saved strain of
seeds warranted to give a large proportion of
double flowers of good quality. Mr. Martin R.
Smith, Mr. S. Mortimer, and Messrs. Bell &
Sheldon also received Awards for Carnations.

Messrs. Dobbie & Co. extended their fame for
bedding Violas by getting Aw-ards of Merit for
Violas, Councillor Walters, Doctor McFarlane,
Isolde, and J^oyal Sovereign.

Narcissus. — These charming flowers increase in
favour, though the good work already done in
producing fine florists' varieties renders it difficult to
secure Awards for recent novelties of superior merit.
The best of the year which secured Awards were
Narcissus Countess of Radnor, a white Ajax shown
by Miss Willmott, V.M.H., who also secured an
Award for Tulipa Fosteriana ; Narcissus King's
Norton, a Giant Yellow Ajax from Messrs. Pope
AND Sons, King's Norton ; N. Lord Kitchener, a
pale bicolor, sent by Mrs. Backhouse, Sutton
Court, Hereford ; N. Alice Knight, a pretty white
Ajax with yellow -centre from Messrs. Barr and
Sons, Covent Garden ; N. Cornelia and N. Masie
Hall from R. H. Bath and Co., Wisbech ;
N. Banzai from Messrs. de Graaff, Leiden ; and
N. Countess of Stamford from Mr. E. ^L Cross-
field, Wrexham.

Stove an© 'Greenhouse Plants.

These have been recruited chiefly by home-raised
varieties, and by a few newly-imported species.

Fine novelties 'ofithe year were Crinum Rattrayi,
the perfection of the C. giganteum class for which
Sir Trevor Lawrence received a First Class
Certificaie, the same exhibitor securing an Award
for Anthuriura Scherzerianum burfordense, w-ith
showy spathes nearly six inches in length.

From the Right Hon. Lord Rothschild's
garden came the handsome Nymphaeazanzibarensis
rosea and the fine Gloriosa Rothschildiana citrina ;
from Leopold we Rothschild, Esq., the compact
bright red Ixora" Mars"; and some other novelties
were noted fro no other gardens.

Messrs. Sander & Sons. St. Albans, have
-attained great perfection in their beautiful strain
■of foliage Begonias and in the now popular
Nicotiana Sanderas, which is being still worked
for novelties. Of their imported species Cycas
Micholitzii is the most remarkable introduction.

Cyrtanthus angustifolius grandiflorus shown by
Miss Willmott, V.M.H., and C. sanguineus
glaucophyllus secured Awards of Merit, and the
new C. insequalis flowered from bulbs imported
by Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate.

The following Novelties and interesting plants and fruits
have been illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle during
1905 ;—

Abelia uniflora, May 27, p. 323

Adonis amurensis, Mar. 25, p. iSS

Agapanthus unibellatus gJobosus, Sep. 23, p. 237

Aloe Chabaudii, Aug. 5, p. 103

Aloe decora, Dec. 2, p. 3S6

Aloe Qrpeiia;, Dec. 2, p. 3S6

Anemone nemorosa double, May 20, p. 307

Angiopteris £v,ecta Teysmanmana, Supp.. Miy 27

Apple, " Coronation," Oct. 14, p. 2S1

Apple, Fenn's Wonder, Jan. 14, p. 20
Apple, King's Acre Bountiful, Nov. 11, p. 341
Asparagus Sprengeri in flower. Jan. 7, p. 10
Aster sub-coerylcus, July 8, p. 23
Astilbe grandis, Supp., Dec. 16
Begonia, Duchess of Cornwall, p. iv. Supp., June 3
Begonia, Ne Plus Ultra, p. iii. Supp., June 3.
Bougainvillea spectabilis in California, Supp., Mar. 18
Brunsvigia gigaiuea, >upp., Mar. 25
Brunsvigia Josephine, Mar. 25, p. 186
Buddleia nivea, Oct. 14, p. 275
Calodendron capense, Supp., May 13
Campanula carpatica, " White Star," Aug. ig, p. 145
Campanula luichauxioides, Supp., Aug. 12
Campanula Zoysii, Sep. 23, p. 288
Campanula punctata, Supp., Aug. 26
Canna Papa Crozy, June 10, p. 356
Cantua buxifolia, Mar. 18, p. 173
Carnation Bob Acres, July 22, p. 65
Carnation Elizabeth, May 6, p. 2S5
Carnation Countess of Radnor, Aug. 5, p. 113
Carnation Miss Willmott. July 22, p. 73
Carnation Pride of Westbury, July 29, p. 68
Castanospermum australe, Sep. 30, p. 245
Ceanothus thyrsiflorus. Mar. 25, p. 179
Ceropegia Woodii seed-pod, April 22, p. 244
Chrysanthemum Miss Irene Cragg, Nov. 18, p. 363
Chrysanthemum Mrs. R. Hooper Pearson, Supp., Dec. 2
Chry?anthemum Souvenir de Petite Ainie, Dec. iG, p. 419
Citrus japonica, Dec. 23, p. 445
Clusia grandiflora, Dec. 2, p. 389
Cordyiine indivisa, Feb. 4, p. 66
Crassula columnaris, Aug. 26, p. 163
Crinum Rattrayi, Supp., July i
Crocus Malyi, Mar. 18, p. 163
Crowea angustifolia, Apr. 22, p. 242
Cycas Micholitzii, Aug. ig, pp. 142-3
-Cyrtanthus angustifolius grandifiorus, Apr. 2g, p. 261
Cyrtanthus in^qualis, Aug. 29, p. 261
Diervilla rivularis, Nov. 11, p. 339
Dimorphothcca aurantiaca, Aug. 12, p. 127
Kchium Wildpreli, July i, p. 5
Eleutherococcus Henryi, Dec. g, p. 403
Eleutherococcus leucorhizus. Dec. 9. p. 404.
Eupatorium micrantlmm, Sep. 23, p. 229
Ericas Veilchii, arborea and lusilanica, Apr. 15, p. 228
Fig Bourjassotte grise, Oct. 7, p. 25S
Gentiana Lawrcncei, Oct. 28, p. 307
Gladiolus iristis concolor, Sep. 2, p. 187
Gloxinia Kaiser Wilhelm, June 10, p. 356
Gloriosa Rothschildiana citrina, Sep. 16, p. 21X
Grape Prince of Wales, Oct. 14, p. 277
Heliamphora nutans, Apr. i, p. 194
Heliopsis breviscapa, Mar. 25, p. 178
Inula Royleana. Supp., Oct. 7
Impatiens Holstii, July i, p. 14
Iris tingitana, June 3, p. 339

Lachcnalias, aurea, Brilliant, Jean Rogers, ao^ peodula
aureliana, pp. 210, 211

Lachenalia liliflora, Oct. 7, p. 259

Lilium Bakerianum, July 22, p. 75

Lilium Glehni, Jan. 7, p. 3

Lilium myriophyllum, Supp., Nov. 4

Lilium sutchuenense, Supp., July 29

Magnolia Kobus, Supp. Ap. 29

Meconopsis grandis, June 17, p. 369

Meconopsis integrifolia. May 13, p. 291

Narcissus (monophylla x Tazetta), Feb. 11, p. 82

Narcissus Nectarine and Pelops, May 20, p. 309

Nerines (Blenheim Palace), Nov. 18, p. 357

Nymph^a zanzibarensis rosea, Supp. Nov. 25

Orange, Japanese, Dec. 23, p. 445

Pear Louise Bonne of Jersey, Oct. 14, p. 283

Pear Madame Treyve, >upp. p. ii., Oct. 14

Pear Passe, Crassane, Jan. 7, p. 11

Pear Marie Louise, Oct. i4, p. 285

Pear Marie Louise d'UccIe, p. iii. Supp., Oct. 14

Pear Santa Claus, Jan. 14, p. 21,

Pear Roosevelt, Sep. 30. p. 243

Pelargonium Madame Crousse, Feb. 25, p. 116

Pelargonium "Clorinda," Supp., Ap. 15

Physalis (hybrid), Oct. 2S, p. 315

Pinus Nelson!, May 20, p. 306

Pinus Pinceana, Aug. 12, p. 122

Pinus radiata, Dec. 23, p. 435

Pinus yunnanensis, Sep. 23, p. 227

Primula Cockburniana, May 27, p. 331

Primula deorum, Feb. 18, p. gS

Primula ovalifolia, Supp., July 22 ,

Primula tangutica, July 15, p- 42

Primula sinensis (stellata), Supp., Feb. 25

Primula Veitchii, Supp., June 3

Primula vittata, June 24, p. 390

Pteris aquilina, crested, Sep. 2, p. 1S9

Rhabdothamnus Sotandri, Mar. 11, p. 146

Rhododendron Lady Godiva, June 17, p. .371

Rhododendron Pink Pearl, June 10, p. 354

Rhododendron Sappho, June 17, p. 370

Rhododendrons (Waterer's), June 10, p. 355.

Rosa gigantea, Supp., Mar. 4

Rosa sericea pteracantha, Oct. 7, pp. 260-1

Rose Lady Gay, June 3, p. 345

Ro?es Waltham Bride and Debutante, June 3, p. 34/

Rubus innominatus, Oct. 21, p. 291

Sarracenias, Temple Show, June 17, p. 373

Senecio auriculatissimus, Apr. S, p. 213

Senecio Veitchianus, Supp., Dec. 30 '

Schizandra Henryi, Aug. 26, p. 162

Schizanthus (Endcliffe), Aug. ig, p. 155

Spiraaa Ai,tph!Sonii, Aug. 5, p. 114
Spirasa bracteata, March 11, p. 149
Spiraea pachystacbys, Nov. 4, p. 322
Strawberry Bedford Champion, July 15* p. 43
Sweet Pea Helen Lewis, July 8, p. 35
Sweet Pea Henry Eckford. July 15, p. 47
Syrin':;a villosa pubescens, Aug. 12, p. 123
Thalicirum Delavayi, Dec. 30, p. 450
Thunbergia natalensis. Mar. 18, p. 162
Veronica Hulkeana, Sep. 30, p. 242
Vitis Henryana, Oct. 28, p. 309
Widdrmgtonia Whytei, Jan. 14, pp. 18, 19.

PEARS AT HARTHAM PARK.
A VISIT paid in autumn to Hartham Park,
Corsham, the residence of Sir John Dickson-
Poynder, afforded an exceptional instance
of successful Pear culture, conducted by Mr.
W. ]. Welch, the gardener in charts. Pears
were unsatisfactory prior to Mr. Welch's time,
and a remedy was sought by him in cordon-
trained trees, planted in a well-prepared border
consisting largely of maiden loam incorporated
with some of the original garden soil, to which
were added some bone meal and wood ashes.
A wall having a southern aspect was cleared
of derelict trees, the adjacent border excavaied
to the extent of a yard in width and depth, and
drainage provided prior to this space being
£Ued up with a prepared mixture of soil. Trees
were purchased from a good source, in some
cases six of one kind, the after-growth of which
gave ample return for the labour involved.
Fruits of good appearance, high quality, and
large size were soon forthcoming, and they in-
creased in quantity as years passed. Failure
due to spring frosts is unknown here, and is
largely due to the protection afforded the
flowers ; double or treble thicknesses of fish-
nets are suspended and kept rigid by means of
fir-poles placed in position in good time. The
same provision has to be made in autumn to
protect the fiuit against the attack of bird.s,
some of which show so marked a partiality for
Pears. To give a greater length of main rod,
the trees are trained obliquely. Beurrcj
d'Amanlis following so closely on Williams'
Bon Chretien, perhaps affords' a solitary in-
stance of complaint as to high merit, and this,
I think, is readily admitted, and often experi-
enced by others, for it is difficult to " take on "
another Pear once the Bon Chretiens are over.
Louise Bonne of Jersey, Souvenir du Congres,
Comte de Lamy, Beurr^ Superfin, and Beurro
Hardy afford a succession of high-clas:^,
clear-skinned fruits. Of Doyenne du Comice,
several trees have been planted, and their yield
is always satisfactory, for the clearness of the
skin and large size of individual fruits gives
this, the best of all Pears, its true value and
position. Pitmaslon Duchess necessarily grows
to a large size, as do Beurre Alexander, Lucas,.
Princess, Durondeau, Beurre Diel, and Beurru ■
Bachelier. This last-named Pear is grown more -
as an accommodation than for quality, keeping-
U23, as it does, a succession,' when other and
better ones have been used. Emile d'Heyst and
Marie Louise both do well, and give of their
best, being always reliable in crop and flavour.
Of smaller kinds. Winter Nelis is always good,
so, too, is Josephine de Balines, Easter Beurre
and Bergamotte d'Esperen. One of the finest
specimens I have ever seen of this variety grew
at Hartham ; the fruit, typical in shape, was.
distinctly out of proportion to the familiar size.
Both Marie Benoist and N.ouvelle Fulvie.
succeed well. These are varietjes that are not
universal successes, but tjhie same may be said
of many other varieties, soi,I playing so large a
part in the successful cult!)re of any particular
kind. Beurre Kance, if it dees not always ripen
sufficiently for the dessert table, caii be turned
to useful account by the chef. Mr. Welch
makes an effort to induce, surface root action
b_jr mulchiiig and feeding. The border is so

44

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 190G.

fully occupied with roots that no part of it
could be disturbed without injury to the fibres.
To this fact, no doubt, is due much of the
success of the system of culture adopted. There
is no gainsaying the fact that cordon training
here gives much better results than could pos-
sibly be got from any other form of tree, be-
cause the space at disposal on tl>e walls is not
ef great extent. W. Strugnell.

MASSONIA PUSTULATA.

This very curious and interesting plant was ex-
hibited by Mr. Elwes at the last meeting of the
Royal Horticultural Society, when it received a
Botanical Certificate from the Scientific Com-
mittee. The plant is by no means new in gardens,
as it was introduced by Masson, and was figured
in the Botanical Magazine more than a century
ago (tab. 642, April i, 1803), but it does not
seem to have been found wild since Masson's
time. Mr. Elwes' plant differs from the
one originally figured in having three leaves
in place of two — otherwise it agrees exactly.
Mr. Worthington Smith's drawing shows the
pustulate leaves, "like shagreen," as stated in
the Botanical Magazine. He also supplies details of
the flower which will be very useful . From them it
is evident that the plant is Liliaceous with a head
of green flowers, each of which has a cylindrical
perianth tube, from the edge of whichproceed the six
narrow spreading segments and as many stamens.
The tube of the flower is filled with nectar, formed
as it would seem from the blackish tissue at the
base of the stamens. This is well described in
the Botanical Magazi'ie as " a clear nectareous

liquid which, rising above the brim, adds to
to the singular appearance of the plant." The
pollen grains, as observed by Mr. Smith, are rela-
tively large and ellipsoid. The genus Massonia,
according to Mr. Baker's monograph of the Liliaceas
contains23 species, all natives of the Cape of Good
Hope. The exact habitat of the present species is
unknown. See Baker in Flora Capensis, vi. (1897) ,
p. 410. Awarm greenhouse temperature with plenty
of water in the growing season and little or none
during the resting stage seem to be indicated.

LAW NOTE.

POISONOUS WEED KILLER.
At the Chertsey County Court, on January 11.
before his Honour the Hon. A. Russell, the
Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain sued
Messrs. Jarvis & Mackie. seedsmen, &c., of Wey-
bridge, for a penalty of £5, under section 15 of the
Pharmacy Act, 186S, for selling arsenic contained
in and formmg part of the ingredients of a com-
pound known as Bentley's Weed Iviller. A witness
named Waldock said he called at the defendant's
premises, and asked for some Aqua weed killer,
but the assistant said they only kept Bentley's.
The witness then purchased a tin (produced),
which had nothing on it to show at which shop it
was purchased, Mr. Moon, Secretary of the
Pharmaceutical Society, said the compound sold
as Bentley's Weed Killer was a most deadly poison,
and should only be sold by a chemist after
enquiring the name and address of the purchaser.
Mr. P. C. Burley, of Petersfield. who appeared
for the Society, said the object of the prosecution
was to protect the public against the sale of this
deadly poison except by qualified persons under
special restrictions. His Honour gave judgment
for the Society, awarding 'he penalty asked for,
and costs.

NURSERY NOTES.

AMERICAN CARNATIONS AT MESSRS.

WALSHAW & SON'S, SCARBOROUGH.

A VISIT to these nurseries during the winter
months will amply repay all who are interested
in the American Carnation and its culture, for
here these lovely flowers are grown to perfec-
tion. The American Carnation is an improved
type of the old tree or perpetual flowering
varieties, being of larger size and possessing
longer stems than the older race, thus rendering
them more suitable for use as cut flowers, or as
decorative plants. The plants should be rooted
early in the year, potted in the spring into 5-inch
and 6-inch pots, placed outside until the end
of August, when they should be removed to
their winter quarters. A span-roof house, pro-
vided with abundant means for ventilation,
forms a suitable structure for their accommoda-
tion. They can be had in flower all through
the winter months without the aid of much fire
heat. It is necessary to fumigate the plants
once a month or thereabouts, in order to keep
down green-fly. Some growers succeed with
them when they are planted out into prepared
beds of good soil under glass during the winter
months. The dreaded rust, I am told, may be
ignored in these American introductions, for
they grow out of it, and are none the worse
for its attack.

At the time of my visit (November 28), several
houses contained these plants in their various
stages of growth, from the cuttings, which are
struck singly in small pots in a little bottom
heat during the winter months, to well-flowered

Fig. 23. — MASSONIA pustulata. real size ; flowers green, with a black centre.

January 20, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

4D

plants in 5-inch and 6-inch pots. Older and
standard varieties inclnde Mrs. T. W. Lawson,
a well-known variety, having large, deep-pink
coloured flowers ; Harry Fenn, a large crimson
flower, with a long, stiff stem ; Floriana of
coral-pink colour, and possessing a very swee*
perfume ; Prosperity, a large fringed flower,
colour, a whitish-pink ; and Governor Wolcott,
a large pure white variety.

Varieties of 1Q04. — Judge Hinsdale, Mrs. M.
A. Patten, MacRinde, The Belle, Lady Bounti-
ful, the three last named being white varieties ;
Enchantress, a very large flower of fiesh-pink
colour; Ethel Ward (rose-pink), Flamingo (bril-
liant scarlet) ; Christmas Eve, a variety flower-
ing late in the season ; The President (bright
crimson), and Octoroon (the petals of this variety
are fringed).

Among the new varieties of 1905 are Lieut.
Peary (snow-white), Fiancee (pink). Cardinal
(brilliant scarlet). Most of the above-named
varieties are deliciously scented, and seem des-
tined to become popular favourites. They are
more easy of culture, and better to manage in
every way than Souvenir de la Malmaison Car-
nations, and afford a supply of flowers during
the winter months without entailing great
expense.

Other interesting things noticed at the time
of my visit were a large House of Begonia
Gloire de Lorraine, the plants, in 4 and 5-inch
pots, all showing excellent health and good
development of colour ; a splendid lot of Poin-
settia pulcherrima, in 5 and 6-inch pots ; quan-
tities of Lilium lancifolium, etc., in various
stages of development ; thousands of plants of
Lily of the Valley, Chrysanthemums in great
variety, Callas, Kentias, and other Palms.
Bailey Wadds, Birdsall Gardens, York.

THE HARDY FLOWER BORDER.
KNIPHOFIA CAULESCENS.

This is one of the strongest growing species,
and, if planted in a slightly sheltered position,
soon grows into a mass. A fine clump in the
Cambridge Botanic Gardens is growing near to
the south side of a greenhouse. The clump
occupies a space about 10 feet by 4 feet, and
flowers very freely during July and August.
The red and yellow flower heads are pc»auced
on strong scapes about 4 feet in height, and
they give a bold display of colour even when
viewed from a distance.

In the colder parts of the country some pro-
tection from severe frost is necessary, and may
be provided by placing a good coating of leaves
or any rough litter about the bases of the plants
on the approach of rough weather. E. J.
Allard. [This species was iigured in a supple-
ment to the Gardeners'' Chronicle, Nevember 16,
1889.— Ed.]

GYPSOPHILA ROKEJEKI.
G. ELEGANS, G. paniculata, and the earlier
blooming G. Stevensi are the best known species
of Gypsophila. But this one with the outlandish
name is well worth introducing to their circle.
In our cool climate it reaches a height of 6
feet, and increases in comeUness — it cannot be
called beautiful — as the days shorlen. The
plant looks its best when isolated in a group
of low-growing plants. It is then handsome,
but in a mixed company of tall plants it is
passed unnoticed. Like other Gypsophilas, it
grows and produces its flowers without causing
any trouble, and also like them, it is of much
use as a cut flower.

ACONITUM AUTUMNALE ALBUM.
Not many white varieties of blue flowers are
better than the type, and when the species is
in every respect possessed of so much beauty,

^,like of foliage, habit, and colour as this, one
hails a good white variety with the greater plea-
sure. The plant has yet to make its way, but it is
in every respect so fine that is is only a question
of time to find it occupying a prominent place
among the best herbaceous plants. The flowers
are really not white, but a sheeny, silky ap-
proach to it, and one of its greatest charms.
The Autumnal Aconite is usually grown as
large single plants, but to secure its fullest
beauty strong single crowns should be selected
and planted at a foot apart. The white variety
blends admirably with the blue, but is also in-
valuable if grouped separately.

CELSIA CRETICA.
Few plants attract moie attention than Celsia
cretica when grown, as it ought to be in large
groups, yet, judging from the enquiries made
as to its identity, the plant is but little known.
I treat it and other Celsias as half-hardy an-
nuals. From seeds sown in February the plants
begin to flower in July, and continue till the
end of the season. The effectiveness of large
groups is increased when plants here and there
are topped early in the season, which induces
a more dwarf and bushy growth. Here the
spikes attain to a height of 4 to 5 feet. Also
handsome and much taller is C. coromandelina,
another yellow-flowered species, which is use-
ful to mix with low-growing herbaceous plants.
C. pontica has white flowers, with free branch-
ing spikes rising to a height of eight feet. It is
one of the best autumnal hardy flowers we have,
and well worth extended cultivation. Those
who have seen it only as a half-starved and old
specimen in the herbaceous border can form
no idea of how handsome and effective a sub-
ject it is when grown as an annual. I have no
doubt that in the southern counties seeds sown
in the open in March will yield good autumn
flowering plants. In the north they are too late,
though this year I have the pretty C. Arcturus
flowering from open-air seedlings. The above-
named are the best of the Celsias I have tried,
and they are all so good that they can be safely
recommended for general cultivation, only it is
essential to grow several together, and not one
here and there singly. U. P. B.

FRUIT REGISTER.

BALGOWAN NECTARINE.
I HAVE found this old, but seldom seen, Nec-
tarine, an excellent variety, both under glass
and outside. On our stifi limestone soil, we
cannot get either of those two fine varieties,
Early Rivers and Lord Napier, to succeed. The
trees of these two varieties produce abundant
crops, and the fruits attain a fine size, but
they always shrivel at their crowns just before
ripening, although we have tried shading them
heavily after the commencement of their second
swelling. We have lifted the roots in winter,
but all to no purpose. As will be known to
experienced fruit growers, some varieties of
fruits, and these often good kinds, fail to finish
well in particular localities. In our case no
Nectarine that has any of the Old White Nec-
tarine parentage does well. I think both the
varieties named are of that lineage. There was
a fine tree of Old White in one of the Peach-
houses when I came here in 1872, but its fruits
never finished satisfactorily. I well remember
my predecessor, Mr. W. Denning, telling me it
had not done well under his care. The varie-
ties, Violette Hative and Elruge, generally suc-
ceed well with us. Balgowan is of the same
type, but its fruits are larger, and are equally
as good in colour, texture of flesh, and flavour.
As its name implies, it is of Scottish origin.
Jl.J.C, Grimstcn.

THE VILMORIN MEMORIAL.

By the courtesy of the director of the Revue
Horticole we are now enabled to lay before our
readers an illustration of the model of the pro-
posed Vilmorin monument. On the death of the
late Henry de Vilmorin it was suggested that a
memorial should be erected which should per-
petuate his memory and serve to recall the great
services to horticulture and agriculture rendered
by the Vilmorin family. It has been said that
but for them there would have been less wheat in
our fields, less sugar in our Beet-roots, and fewer
flowers in our gardens. Although the saying
applies especially to France it is by no means
inapplicable here and in America. No foreigner^
we venture to say, was more beloved in this country
by those who knew him than Henrv de Vilmorin..,

Fig. 24. — THE VILNJORIN MEMORIAL.

Our fathers said the same thing of his predecessors,
and the present representatives nobly uphold the
traditions of the family. The group modelled by
M. earlier is suggestive of Agriculture and Horti-
culture and of the work done by the Vilmorins in
these departments. On the pedestal are placed
four medallions representing four generations of
the Vilmorin family. The total number of sub-
scribers up to the present time is 3,822, and the
amount received is 37,151 francs (about /i,4S6).
As showing how wide was the respect felt for
Henry de Vilmorin it may be noted that a large
number of the subscriptions are for small amounts
of one franc and upwards. In order to complete
the monument as designed further subscriptions
are requested. We shall be pleased to remit to M. '
Bourguignon, tbe Treasurer, any sums that maj,
be entrusted to us for the purpose.

PLANT MOTES.

MOMORDICA ELATERIUM.
This plant is said (Bot. Mag., tab. 1914) to snr- .
vive only two or three years in the open. I have
a specimen in my garden which has now survived
12 years, and possesses a very large rootstock.
Many other specimens have established themselves
at a short distance from the old plant, sprung up,
of course, from the scattered seeds. Somp of
them have already survived six years.

MIMOSA DENHARDTI.'
Can anyone let me know something about this
plant, of which I have four fine specimens, with
leaves almost as sensitive as those pf Mimosa
pudica? It is a greenhouse plant. I cannot find
any reference to it in the Iiidct Kcmnsis or' its
supplements. M. Buysman, Midddhiirg, Holland. ' '

46

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 1906.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(Tlie Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)
Helleborus NIGER.— Mr. C. Ruse, in writing
of the different varieties of Christmas Rose. p.
444, voi. 38, states that St. Brigid's Christmas
Rose is synonymous with Helleborus angustifolius.
This is certainly not the generally accepted opinion,
for amongst those who have made a study of the
Hellebores, the correct name for St. Brigid's
Christmas Rose is recognised as H. juvernis. This
is quite a distinct plant from H. angustifolius, and
is one of the most beautiful forms of f-I. niger. It
bears pure white flowers, which are cup shaped,
upon apple-green foot-stalks, the foliage being little
serrated and of lightish green colour. Of H. n.
angustifolius there are two forms, the Scotch and
the Manchester varieties, the former bemg some-
times known as H. n. scoticus. In the variety
scoticus the blossoms are often suffused with rose
at the back of the petals, but in the Manchester
variety the fiowers are pure white. In both forms
the blooms are somewhat starry in shape and quite
lack the cupped appearance of H. n. juvernis.
Some nurserymen also err in cataloguing H. n.
-angustifolius and H. n. juvernis as identical. S. W.
I^itzhcrhc't.

Rhubarb. — Where fresh plantations are re-
quired (and it is best to make a new one each
year) the present is a good time to do so. Rhubarb
being a gross feeder, rich, well-trenched ground
is essential to quick growth. Divide up as many
crowns of a good variety as necessary, choosing a
variety that will force easily, and plant them in
rows 3 feet apart, allowing the same between the
plants. A good, strong knife is the best instru-
ment to use in dividing the old plants, as there is
less likelihood of causing injury than when the
spade is used. Dig up and thoroughly expose to
the weather all plants intended for forcing, as
giowth will then be much quicker after they are
subjected to the influence of heat. James Gibson,
Wdbcch Gardens, Worksop.

Roots in Store. — Examine all roots in store,
and it is worth while even to re-store the whole
at this season. There is then less likelihood of
•decayed parts passing unnoticed. No attempt
should be made to keep the soil around them
excessively dry, or such roots as Beet and Turnips
will lose some of their juice and other qualities.
Jamc Gibson, Wdbeck Gardens, Worksop.

Seed Packing. — Early in the year 1890 my
brother, Harold E. Bartlett, who was then 200 miles
up the Niger in theservice of the Royal Niger Com-
pany, wrote home asking me to send him a few
seeds of common annuals and perennials, such as,
Mignonette, Stocks, Asters, Sweetwilliams, Fox-
■gloves, etc., and two or three Grape stones, as,
although surrounded by noble Palms and many
gorgeous flowers of the tropics, he, like many of
our countrymen similarly situated, longed for
the sight and smell of the common flowers of our
English cottage gardens. "I want to make, as
far as I can, a little English flower-garden in front
of my bungalow," he wrote ; " so just send me the
merest pinch of each kind in your next letter.
I don't much care even if they are mixed up, I
can sort them as they grow. Don't take any
trouble with packing as postage is very dear (6d.
per ^-ounce), and all these patent paraphernalias
are quite unnecessary. When I came out I
brought some seeds from Kew in ordinary paper
packets, and to my great surprise nearly every-
kind germinated very quickly and freely. I
expected alarge proportion of failures." I do not
know what these seeds were, but as the journey to
the Niger at that time included a fortnight in a
coasting steamer along the Gold Coast, one of
the notoriously hot and dry regions of the world,
this was a good test of the vitality of seeds under
the impossible conditions of Mr. Watson's critics.
The, few mixed seeds which I sent were duly
received, but I fear were never sown, for my poor
brother, after struggling ' manfully against nine
months of intermittent fever, succumbed to an
unusually severe attack which brought to an un-
timely end a very promising career. A .C.Bartlclt.

Anthracite Coal at a Bargain ! — Can any

reader throw some light upon the reason why
trucks loaded witl> anthracite coal are so constantly
breaking down ? About once a month I receive a
letter from §^)lers of such coal telling me that they
unfortunately liave some trucks of arithracite coal

broken down near my station, and asking if I
would care to avail myself of the opportunity of
buying this coal at such and such a price. The
last firm I heard from made me an offer of coal of
this kind at about the ordinary market price
at the time. My curiosity was aroused, so I
wrote to the vendors asking where the broken
down trucks were. I was told " ihey were at
a certain station"; but the stationmaster
there informs me he can find no trace or
record of any broken down trucks, or, indeed,
of any trucks of anthracite coal awaiting
order. I write this wondering if other readers ol
the Gardeners' Chronicle are pestered by similar
attempts to induce them to buy anthracite coal at
market price under pretence that tliey are being
offered a bargain because of a misfortune which
has fallen on the coal-seller. A. Holland Htbhcrt.

The Unemployed. — Instead of sending money
to the Queen's Enemployed Fund, Sir Charles
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, has given work to
a dozen men with large families to support living in
the neighbouring parish. As there are in most
gardens at this time of the year additions and
alterations to be made in the pleasure grounds,
&c., these men are proving very useful to the
gardener. It is a good idea, and should be followed
by other generous employers. B.

White Nice Grape (see p. 16). — This grape
used to be, and may be still, grown at Arkleton,
Langholm, Dumfriesshire. H. W . W.

The Willow for Cricket Bats. — What is
the botanical name of the particular Willow of
which the best cricket bats are made ? The
question is not so easily answered as might be
supposed. I have consulted the authorities at
Kew, but they could only refer me to their issue
of the Keiv Bulletin of September, 1905, p. 239,
where there is a paragraph relating to " Salix
alba" — the Huntingdon or White Willow used
for making cricket bats. From this It appears that
the supply is falling off and the demand increas-
ing, as much as 5s. per cubic feet having been
offered for " the right stuff." All the authorities
that I have consulted, such as Loudon, Forbes,
and the greatest authority on Willows of all,
Borrer, make no mention of this particular use to
which the wood of " Salix alba " is put, probably
because the modern bat was unknown in their
time. As my own botanical friends could not
help me, the next step was to consult the bat-
makers; and what did I find? That they also
were quite ignorant of the correct name, but
knew the tree when they saw it, and I gathered
in the course of my enquiries that so keen where
they to secure the "right stuff" that they were
constantly sending men to scour the country for
it. I ascertained that the trade name for it is the
" Close barked White Willow" as opposed to the
open barked sort, and that the best comes from
Essex. The qualities required by the makers are
lightness and straightness of grain, and the ordi-
nary White Willow as found in the Midlands and
the North is deficient in these qualities, being, in
fact, much too heavy and solid. Now, all botanists
are aware that the Willows constitute one of the
most involved genera of plants to study, and no
two authorities agree as to what are species and
what are varieties. There are so many hybrids
and they differ much according to the sex of
the tree, soil, and climate. Thus Alpine willows
6 inches high, with narrow leaves, when planted
in an English garden, develop into bushes and
change their character completely. Whether the
climate and soil of Essex have anything to do in
this case with the quality of the wood, or if it is
the particular variety that grows there, I am un-
able at present to prove. I have secured some
cuttings that are supposed to be of the variety re-
quired, but the species cannot be proved until they
have grown large enough to produce flowers. My
own theory is that the " close barked White Wil-
low " will be found to be Salix alba var. coerulea,
and possibly the female, which is the more vigor-
ous. It is the quickest grower of all the tree
Willows in a moist soil, reaching 18 inches in dia-
meter in as many years, when it is ready to cut
down. The quicker the growth the lighter the
tiriiber and the better the price, and the profit from
the planting of this ought to compare very favour-
ably with any other tiriiber with which I am ac-
quainted. L. Fosbrookc, Ravenstonc Hall, Leiccsler-
shirc.

To Brighten Beds of Azalea, Rhodo-
dendron, Erica, Skimmia, etc. — That the
beds and borders consisting of these planta

want some other species to give colour to
them should they form prominent objects in
or about a flower garden, is a thought that
would occur to most persons, and these same
individuals would most probably choose some
members of the genus Lilium to fulfil this pur-
pose. In many cases this would result from
conscious or unconscious copying, a thing we
all do too commonly. There are many other
spjcies of plants which would do equally well.
Even Lilies do not flower all the summer and
autumm seasons, unless you make use of the
bulbs in pots, and possess cold storage, so as
to have them in bloom in nearly every month
when blossoms are to be found in the open.
And few of us can do that. The main con-
sideration is the time of year in which the
bsds of shrubs are to be brightened. Is it be-
fore the blooms of the chief permanent occu-
pants of the beds appear, or after the flowering
is over? There are Roses of various classes
which would be very suitable as affording
flower colour in quantity ; for example, the
various Ramblers, Fellenberg Noisette, Scots
Roses, the common China or monthly Roses, as
Cramoisie Superieure and Hermosa, very regular
and constant bloomers ; the so-called Bedders,
viz., Fisher Holmen, Duke of Wellington, Cap-
tain Christy, General Jacqueminot, Grace Dar-
ling, Gruss as Teplitz, Mad. Victor Verdier,
Magna Charta, etc. ; and the Rosa polyantha
varieties. Roses, like all other plants that do
not succeed in peat, must be planted in
properly prepared suitable composts, in stations
excavated between the bushes ; not a difficult
matter if the latter are not standing too closely
together. The chimney Campanula (C. pyra-
midalis) would show up with fine effect where
the bushes arc not taller than four feet, and C.
carpatica might be employed near the margins
of the beds. Ajuga reptans, Plumbago Larpen.
tae, the bright, free flowering varieties of Py-
rethrum roseum, Gaillardias, and Aubrietias,
make showy permanent borders to beds of
Azaleas, Rhododendrons, etc., as do the various
species of hardy Ericas. For interspersing be-
tween the permanent shrubs, Hyacinthus candi.
cans, Hemerocallis flava, aurantiaca and fulva
are showy and of moderate growth, also Lyth-
rum virgatum, Pentstemons, Golden Rod,
Phlox decussata, and the bulbous and other
Irises offer good material of a showy character.
Dahlias of the Pompon and dwarfer single-
flowered forms would not be out of place in
such beds, and such Spiraeas as Bumalda, the
taller varieties of Callosa; Antony Waterer, S.
Thunbergi, S. Sorbifolia, and S. Douglasii,
would afford desirable colours and pretty
flowers. Where the beds of shrubs are of large
size, it would not be inadmissible to plant a
few standard Crabs, such as the Siberian, coro-
naria, florepleno, floribunda, Orientalis, Dart-
mouth, etc., such objects assisting in the
breaking up of the contour of flat-headed
colonies of evergreens. But the employment of
such objects demands careful consideration,
otherwise incongruous combinations will result.
The mixing of but few species of plants in beds
adjacent to each other would be preferable to
too large an assortment, that would only be
productive of a bizarre effect. In most cases
one bed one species of plant should be the rule
with regard to those employed for brighten-
ing, excepting if the bed or border is of
great extent, when more latitude may be in-
dulged. F. /if.

Citrus Japonica fructo elliptico. — The

First Class Certificate granted to this most un-
happily named little orange by the Fruit Com-
mittee, on the gth inst., had nothing whatever to
do with the decorative appearance of the plants
shown by Messrs. Veitch & Sons, but solely with
the fruit as produced and tasted. Those who
may not have seen plants in fruit, and know
Golden Nugget Tomato, can understand that each
plant, though but 18 to 20 inches in height,
bushy and well-foliaged, carried scores of golden-
coloured fruit, just about the size of those of
Golden Nugget, but a little more cylindrical.
Most certainly this remarkable prolificacy helped
to the award, but more still did the tasting of the
ripest fruits, and the riper the sweeter, for they
were, though of brisk taste, yet the sweeter the
more eaten, and the committee regarded them as
presenting a most interesting and useful addition
to our too limited list of house-grown dessert
fruits. F.R.H.S.

jAJiUARY :>o, I9y6.x

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

47

socie:ties.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

January ^tw.— Present : Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S.,
in the chair, and Messrs. Massee, Saunders, Odell,
Elwes, I*".R.S., Michael, Douglas, Bowles, Pickerinj;,
F.R.S. ; Dr. A. B. Rendle ; F. J. Chittenden, hon. sec.

Botanical Certificate— Mr. H. J. Elwes, F.R.S..
V.M.H., showed Massonia pustulata [sec Fig. 23 on page
44], a curious Liiiaceuus plant from S. Africa, having a
very short stem bearing three large dark green pustulate
lea\es and a fluittned circular infloresccute. It was
figured in the Cot. Mag., No. 642. Mr. Elwes re-
marked that it was of exceedingly slow growth. On
the motion of Mr. Douglas, seconded by Mr. Bowles,
a Botanical Certificate was unanimously awarded.

Apple diseased. —Mr. Spencer Pickering, F.R.S.,
showed fruits from a tree grown in Bedfordshire, and
known locally as the "Ring Pippin." Two trees of
the variety were growing in an old orchard, and e\cvy
fruit every jear was grooved transversely, so that a
deep ring was made in the flesh. No fruits on the trees
of other varieties in the orchard were similarly affected.
Other members of the committee remarked that simi-
larly cracked fruits were not uncommon, but that they
had not seen so e-Mcnsive an occurrence of the trouble.
Mr. Douglas thought that cold winds in the spring
were a possible cause. Mr. Massee took the fruits for
further examination.

Silver-leaf in Apple. — Mr. Pickering also reported
that upon the trunk of the Apple tree in Dexonshire,
which be had previously mentioned as being affected
with siher-leaf, the fungus Stereum purpureum, whith
is so oftt-n, if not invariably, associated with the
disease, had made its appearance.

Cletuatis stttn cracked. — I\Ir. Saunders showed a
piece of the stem of Clematis Jackmanni which had
split open for a distance of 2ft., starting about 3in.
above the surface of the ground. In the interior of
the siero a (allus-Hke growth had developed. The
stems were referred to Mr. Massee.

Fruits^ S^c, front New South Wales. — Dr. Masters
showed the following on behalf of Mr. Bland, of
Soham, Cambridge: —

Macadamia ternifoUa (" Queeusland Nut ").— The
tree, which belongs to the Proteaceae, grows wild in the
large scrub in the colony. The nuts are very nutritious
and of very fine flavour, but are encased in an exceed-
ingly hard shell, which can only be broken by the aid of
a hammer. [See Gatdeuers' Cltronicle, 1S70, p. 1181.]

Cast.inospermum australe. — The large pod of this, the
*' Ausir.alian Chestnut," with ripe seeds, was also
shown. [See Gardeners' Chronicle^ SepL 30, 1905, Fig.
^3-]

Gleditschia triacanlhos.— Legumes of this plant,
which occasionally fruits in this country.

Aleurites moluccana, — The Candle Nut tree produces
edible nuts, which contain a considerable quantity of
oil. From the roots the Sandwich Islanders extract a
brown dye.

Coffta arabica var. angustifolia. Grown in New
South Wales.

Dodonara irifjuetra. — Fruits of this Sapindaceous
plant with winged carpels giving a superficial resem-
blance to hops.

Panicum maximum. — A specimum of this grass, which
produces three crops per annum. Stock are very
fond of it. An analysis of the grass gives— Moisture,
18. g ; albuminous compounds, 7.8; carbonaceous matter
and woody fibre, 58.33 ; mineral a^n, 14.97.

Mr. Bi-AND also sent a silken case into which pieces
of twig had been interwoven, and in which a caterpillar
lives. The larva suspends tha case from branches,
fences, etc., and protrudes its head from the opening.
At the slightest noise or touch it withdraws its head
instantly.

Excrescences on Logan berry. — Mr. J. S. Turner sent
specimens of large, almost spherical, growths of about
3in. in diameter on roots and stems of the Loganberry,
very similar to those frequently seen on the roots of
Marechal Niel Roses, formed just below the surface of
the soil. The formation of these swellings has been
attributed to frost or in other cases to irritation set
up by a mite, a species of Rhizcglyphus.

Excrescences on Roots of Birch. — Mr. Notcutt, of
Woodbridge, Suffolk, sent an example of a similar but
much larger growth on the root of Silver Birch. The
formation of this gall-like growth on the Birch roots
has been attributed to the presence of Schinzia betuli.

Watfir for Spraying, <5h,;.— Lady St. Oswald sent
the following communication concerning the rainwater
supply for garden purposes :—" We are situated in the
midst of collieries, brick, coke, and other works, and
we think our water supply, which is collected into
cement tanks in the usual way, contains an injurious
amount of sulphuric acid, £:c. Our reasons for think-
ing the water is harmful are that when used for syring-
ing plants and fruit trees the points of the leaves where
the water has been hanging gradually die away until
nearly the whole of the leaf is gone. This has been a
regular occurrence here, particularly with Peach leaves.

Sphagnum-moss on orchid pots and pans does not
thrive, and goes brown and dies, but if the syringing is'
discontinued the young leaves grow healthily. Even
roots of some things unaccountably die away." It
was recommended that lime should be added to tlie
water except that which was to be used for spraying ;
to this common ammonia may be added.

THE WEATHER.

©l)itiicir|),

G. W. Mair. — We regret to announce thedeath
of Mr. G. W. Mair, Superintendent of Victoria
Park, Handsworth. near Birmingham, on the 3rd
inst. Mr. Mair was born in the county of Fife,
Scotland, and receiied his early training in garden-
ing in the Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh.
He was afterwards employed in the nurseries of
Messrs. Thomson, at Clovenfords, and when the
managership of the Aston Lower Grounds becan e
vacant he was elected to that office. About
15 years ago the Handsworth District Council
opened the Victoria Park to the public, and a year
or so later Mr. Mair was appointed Superintendent,
a position he occupied until his death. Many
improvements have been effected in the park during
that time, notably the extension of the area, the
addition of a large sheet of water, &c. Mr. Mair
who was connected with the management of the
Handsworth Floral Fete was in his fifty-sixth year,
and is survived by a widow and one daughter.

Natural History Museum AppofNTMENT.

— It is stated that Dr. A. Barton Rendle has been
appointed to be keeper of the Herbarium in the
British Museum, in succession to Mr. George
Murray, who recently retired from the post on

■account, of ill-health. Dr. Rendle has served as
an assistant in the botanical department of the

Museum for a period of '6 years.

METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS taken in the
Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens al Wisley,
Sdrrey. Height above sea - level Ma feet. The
following are the " mean " readings for the week
ending January 13, 1906: —

GLASGOW SEED AND NURSERY TRADE
ASSISTANTS' ASSOCIATION.

January ijtii.— The members of this Society held
their annual dinner on the above date, Mr. A. N.
Hunter occupying the chair. In all sixty-three members
and friends, representing most of the seed and nursery
firms of the city, sat down to dinner.

The principal toast, " Seed and Nursery Trade
Assistants," was given by Mr. William Leighton, who
recalled the days of his apprenticeship, when the regu-
lar closing hour in ihe trade was eight o'clock, Satur-
day included. In those days there were not so many
opportunities for improvement as now, and he thought
that the Association was a step in the right direction.

Other toasts followed, and the local Secretary for
The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund (Mr. Jas. H.
Parkeh), was afforded an opportunity of speaking on
behalf of this laudable Society, with the result that a
collection of three guineas was taken in aid of this
charity.

national chrysanthemum.

At a meeting of ihe Executive Committee on Monday
evening last, Mr. Thomas Bevan presided.

Mr. Haruan Pavne announced that, in accordance
with the resolution of the Committee, a copy of the
"repertoire des couleurs " had now been purchased
for the use of the Floral Committee, and the same
was handed over to the Chairman.

Mr. Dean, the Secretary pro. tern., then laid before
the Committee the balance-sheet for the past year and
rough draft of the annual report to be submitted to
the annual general meeting of the Society in February
next. Mr. C. H. Curtis submitted a report of the
*' Early Flowering " Conference, and it was resolved
that the papers read and the discussion which ensued
should be printed and issued as a separate publication
of the Society. A vote of thanks, accompanied by a
silver medal, was accorded to Mr. Curtis for his ser-
vices in connection with that gathering. Some discus-
sion then ensued upon the advisability of the Society
publishing a year-book or journal, and this matter was
referred to a sub-committee consisting of Messrs.
Crane, Curtis, Hawes, Harrison, Jones, and Foster.

Mr. Harman Pavne gave a report of the steps taken
by the sub-committee in whose hands the consideration
of applications for the post of general secretary to the
Society had been entrusted, and it was resolved lo
adjourn tlie meeting for another week. It was resolved
that in future the awards to be made to miscellaneous
e.\hibits at the Society's shows shall be entrusted to the
Floral Committee.

1906.

Temperaturb

or THE AlR.

0

Tempera-
tureof tmk
Soil at gA..M.

X

<

I

1 *i

J M

At 9 A.M.

<
Q

0

d

V

' d

5

.. 2

■

WO

■u

-3

<2<

J

'Xi

0

<2

iH

3

a

01

1

ZJ

03

< <

>.

Xi

J

<

.<

,<

t

q

^

X

0

t

1
1

ti

■ ti

bj)

oi)

ti

tib

' M

' ail

hr. min.

V

<u

Id

-a

TJ

-a

-o

-0

■"

:

'

Tot

1

Means

4y

4U

49

37

33

41

43

44

1-10

3 28

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS;
Thk Following Summary Record of the
weather throughout the British Islands, for the
week ending January 13, is furniiihedi from the
Meteorological Office : —

The wcatiier was extremely unsettled in all- parts of the
Kingdom. Rain was general, and at limes heavy, but there
were several fair intervals, especially over England and
Ireland. Thunderstorms, with hail, were experienced very
generally in the south-west of Ireland and] the southern
counties of England on Tuesday, at Portland. Bill on Wed-
nesday, at Glencarron and Laudale on Fridiiy, and at Black-
pool and Aberystwyth on Saturday.

The *aii\fall exceeded the average in all districts both in
frequency and amount. Except in the east of Scotland and
north-east of England the excess was larye.

The temperature was a degree bdow the average in Scot-
land N., but in all other parts of the Kingdom it was again
above Ihe norinal, the excess in Englaiid S. amounting to as
much as 46°. The highest of Ihe maxima, which were re-
corded on rather irregular dates, ranged from 54" in Eng-
land E. and s/in several other districts to 45'in bcotland N.
The lowest of the minima occurred on the 7th in Scotland,
but much later in the week over Ihe Kingdom generally;
they were as low as 23' and 24° respectively in Scotland N.
and E., and elsewhere ranged from 27' in England S.W. to
33* in England N.W. and lo 36' in the Channel Islands.

The bright sunshine exceeded the average duration over
Ireland and in most parts of England, and equalled it in
Scotland and in England N.E. and N.W. The percentage
of the possible duration varied from 12 in Scotland N. and
14 in Scotland W. to 35 ia England E. and to 37 in
England S.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
Warm and showery weather. — The first day of the
year was cold, but since then there has not been a
single unseasonably cold day or night. For the last
tight days the highest day temperatures have been re-
markably uniform, varying only from 46 to 48 degrees,
or from 5 lo 7 degrees warmer than is usual at this, the
coldesi period of the whole year. The ground tempera-
turf-s are now unusually high for the time of year, being
3 degrees higher at 3 feet deep, and 4 degrees higher at
1 font deep, than is seasonable. As far as the present
month has yet gone, there have been only three days
without rain — the aggregate fall for the 16 days being
3 inches, or half an inch in excess of the average fall
for the whole month. During the same period 14 gallons,
or nearly the whole of the rainfall, has come through
each of the percolation gauges. The past week was a
very bright one for January — the dullest month but one
of the year. The sun shone oa an average for over 3J
"hours a day, or for more than two hours a day longer
than is usual. The wind continued moderately high
throughout the week, the direction being almost exclu-
sively sonic point between south and west. The meaa
amount of moisture in the air at 3 o'clock in the after-
noon was as much as 10 per cent, less than is seasonable
for that hour. Saxifraga apiculata was first in Bnwer
in my garden on the 15th inst., which is a remarkably
early date, and several weeks earlier than in either of
the two previous years. E. M., Berkhamttedi January
17, ii)u6.

TRADE NOTICES.

Mr. EnwARD Slater, lale gardener for 10 years to Sic
R. M. BkooKE, Bt., Norton Priory, Runcorn, has purchased
the Padgate Nurseries, Warrington, Lancashire, and will
enter into occupation on February i.

Mr. A. DiMMOcit, who has represented the firm of Messrs.
F. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, for 25 year?, and has spent
a large portiou of that time in the United Slates of
America, has been appointed European Agent for the Yoko-
hama NORSERv Co. OF Japan and for Messrs. Suzuki,& Iin4(
of 31, Barclay Street, N.Y., U.S-A., wholesale importer*
and exporters of bulbs, seeds and nursery slock.

ENQUIRY.

Mento [?] Boilers. — Canorygardener who has
been using one of these huilersgive me his opinioa
of them, with respect to heating power and length
of lime the 6re will last after each " stoking up " ?
Also what sort of fuel will last longest — best
anthracite coal or coke ?r-/. C.

48

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 20, 1906.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Beech Coccus : T. H. W. Thoroughly scrub
the infested bark with petroleum emulsion, or
with a mixture of soft soap and caustic soda.
Work the insecticide well into the crevices of
the bark, and any other parts where the insect
may be in hiding. You can perform the work
at the present time. Use the caustic soda with
care, and remember that gloves should be used
when spraying with this strong alkali.

Bees and Cucumbers: G. H. S. All the harm
the Bees arelikelyto do to the Cucumbers is that
by their agency the flowers may become properly
fertilised and produce a quantity of seeds. As
cucumber "fruits" will often swell perfectly
without fertilisation of the ovules or young seed
having taken place ; it may possibly be con-
sidered a disadvantage if they are made to pro-
duce numerous seeds. In no other way can we
explain your neighbour's somewhat unreasonable
grumble.

Books ; Constant Reader. The book you mention
has just been published. Apply to our publish-
ing department. — A . C. A Synopsis of the British
Mosses, by Chas. P. Hobkirk, F.L.S. Apply to
our publishing department. — F.E.F. la John-
son's Gardener's Dictionary the names of the
plants are accented, with a view to showing how
■each should be pronounced, and this may be
sufficient for your purpose. In the Appendix to
Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening there is a
very useful chapter on this subject.

'Ca.mellia Buds Failing : F. S. Without know,
ing all the circumstances of the case we can
only suggest that your flower buds failing is
due to the roots having suffered a check.
Although you are satisfied that the plants have
* not been allowed to become dry, you may
possibly have kept them too wet for a time,
and a check from this cause would be quite as
■disastrous as one from drought. When
Camellias are full of strong growths, unless
the supply of water is restricted at the time
when the flower buds should set, they are apt
to push all their energies into growth, and the
. flower buds suffer in consequence. The quan-
tity of water which these plants require,
especially in the growing season, makes it
necessary that the soil in which they are
grown should be of such a character that it
will not become too close and compact. When
you top-dressed the plants last spring, di9 you
interfere with the roots? Camellias are some-
what impatient of disturbance at their roots.

Chironia ixifera : Jeannot. Increased attention
has certainly been given to this pretty plant
during the last few years. Chironia ixifera can
be had in bloom at any time during tho summer
and autumn months, but is not suitable for
flowering in winter. If young growing shoots
are inserted in an ordinary propagating frame,
in well-drained pots or pans, containing either
sand exclusively, or fine peat and sand mixed
together, they will soon make roots. As soon
as these cuttings have made roots pot them
into small thumb pots and use a compost of good
fibrous loam and peat in equal parts adding a
liberal quantity of silver sand ; cultivate the
plants in an atmospheric temperature of 6o° at
night, and shade them from bright sunshine.
Spray them occasionally and let the atmosphere
of the house be maintained in a moderately
moist condition. Repot the plants, as soon as
.they are ready, into 54 or 48-sized pots. The
latter are large enough for the plants when in
flower, unless specimens are required for exhi-
bition. The same kind of compost as already
mentioned may be used at the final potting. A
temperature of 55" at night will be high enough
..after the plants have made this progress, but it
may be allow e 1 to increase during the day. A
higher temperature would tend to induce too
much growth. At the same time if the plants
are required to flower at any special time they
may be afforded rather more heat after the buds
"have formed. Do not allow them to suffer at
any time from want of sufficient water, but pro-
vide them with shade from bright sunshine dur-
ing the middle of the day, or the thrips
will soon become troublesome and cause the
narrow leaves tc -a_ "hich would give to the
plants an unattractive appearance. When the
pots have become fillea with roots, a little Clay's
Fertiliser or weak liquid manure or even clean
soot water may be applied. The stimulant will
impart a dark green tint to the foliage and a

deeper colour to the flowers. If plants are grown
in 60-sized pots they will make bushy little speci-
mens and flower freely. Such plants can subse-
quently be cut down, kept moderately dry
through the winter months and be repotted early
in spring ; they will then come into full flower in
May. Pinch out the points of the shoots as
often as required to produce bushy shaped plants,
and after placing a neat stake in the centre of
each plant sling the side shoots to this by means
of fine shreds of raffia which have been stained
a green colour.

Eucharis Mite : A. A. Mc.K. — In our experience
the bulb mite has only attacked Eucharis bulbs
when owing to some cause the bulbs have
become weak and the outer scales partially
decayed. This particular pest may be found in
almost any kind of bulbs if serious decay is present,
and it undoubtedly hastens the destruction of
the bulbs. The best preventive, therefore, is
to treat the plants as naturally as is possible in
our glass-houses, and so maintain them in a
vigorous condition. If decay has already set in
and mites are numerous, do not waste time in
trying to kill these latter, but rather burn the
stock, disinfect the house, obtain fresh bulbs,
and endeavour to keep them in a healthy
condition.

Gypsum: A.G.P. This substance is sulphate of
lime containing water in combination. Pure
gypsum contains 325 per cent, of lime, 46'5 per
cent, of sulphuric acid, and 21 per cent, of
water. Plaster of Paris is prepared from gypsum
by burning, which drives off the water it con-
tains. But for agricultural purposes gypsum is
used in its natural condition. This material,
like other forms of lime, furnishes directly the
element calcium and exerts a favourable solvent
effect upon the soil. It was formerly used in
large quantities, particularly for crops of
Mustard, Turnips, Grasslands, Potatos and
Clover, at the rate of about 1,000 lb. per acre,
sown during the winter or early spring. It is
believed that its favourable effect is due not so
much to the direct addition of lime, as to its action
upon insoluble potash compounds in the soil inset-
ing free potash. Thus the application of gypsum
causes an increase of crop, because of the potash
made available. Should the soil be light and
sandy, and thus contain but little natural potash
applications of 4 cwts. kainit or i^ cwt. muriate
of potash per acre must be given with the gyp-
sum, otherwise but little beneficial effect will be
produced. Gypsum is also useful to spread over
floors of poultry-houses, stables or heaps of
farmyard manure to absorb the ammonia gas
given ofi" in the decomposition of the animal ex-
crements, to be afterwards spread and ploughed
into the soil.

Mealy Bug on Vines ; Gardener. The follow-
ing treatment is recommended by Mr. H. W.
Ward, author of The Book ./ the Grape.
Smear the Vines with a mixl- c- of coal tar
and clay, using one part of the former to nine
parts of the latter. The clay should be dried
and powdered, so that it may be passed
through a quarter-inch sieve. Then mix the
tar and clay together in the proportions named
above, afterwards adding sufficient boiling
water to give it the consistency of ordinary
paint. Apply the mixture by means of a stiff
paint brush to every crevice in the bark of the
Vines, including that on the spurs. This is a
very old and effective method of destroying
bug.

Mushrooms: M. Liddiard and H. G. M. The
disease is not due to the spawn, but is caused
by a fungus called H\pomvccs pernidosus, which
was probably introduced with the soil or manure.
If the disease has spread much, the only means
of preventing its continuance and attacking other
beds is to remove all the soil and manure, and
thoroughly disinfect the house by spraying
every part with a solution of sulphate of copper
— one pound of sulphate to 15 gallons of water.

Names of Fruits : /. C. T. Bramley's Seedling.
— Saltmarsh . We cannot recognise your Apples.
Certainly they are not the varieties you mention.
Our opinion is that they are local sorts.

Names of Plants: C. K. E. i, Pinus excelsa ;
2, Probably the Deodar cedar, but we cannot
tell without seeing the tree. — W. S. i,Adiantum
cuneatum grandiceos ; 2, Adiantum macro-
phyllum ; 3, Selaginella Mertensii; 4, Lygodium
scandens; 5, Pteris longifolia ; 6, Adiantum
tenerum. — C. IK. I, Begonia manicata ; 2,
Begonia nitida ; 3, Begonia Weltoniensis; 4,

Begonia prestoniensis : 5. Begonia fuchsioides ;
6, Codiseum (Croton) aureo-maculatum ; 7,
Codiaeum angustifolium. — F. W. C. Aira
caespitosa, Windlestraws or Snizzle-grass. — ■
F. E. F. Send better specimen.

Notice to Leave : Perplexed. We believe that
the notice may be tendered on any day of the
week, and after 12 o'clock mid-day. In the case
of a second gardener who is paid weekly, a
week's notice should be deemed sufficient,
always, of course if no agreement has been
made to the contrary.

Oncidium serratum with inflorescence 21
feet in length : E. D. It is not uncommon
for Oncidium serratum and some other Onci-
diums to produce the long trailing flower-spikes
you mention. They continue the growth of the
inflorescence throughout the dull weather which
is not favourable to the production of flowers
and afterwards bloom in summer and autumn.

Pine Shoots Diseased : G. E. Although we
have not been able to discover the actual insect
there is little doubt but that the injury to your'
trees is the work of the Pine Beetle, Hylurgus
piniperda. The following remarks are condensed
from Miss Ormerod's book. The female appears
in April or May, and begins her operations by
boring a hole through the bank , beneath which she
forms a tunnel along which she lays her eggs.
The maggots soon hatch and eat their way forward
beneath the bark. They are about a quarter of
an inch long, and white, except their extremities,
which are ochreous in tint. The maggots turn
to pup^ at the ends of their tunnels, from which
the beetles are developed in July and August..
These come out and fly to neighbouring trees,
where they may be found in September in great
numbers, boring into the young shoots and
causing great injury. Clearing the infested
shoots from the trees in summer or from
beneath them in winter is one means of prevent-
ing recurrence of attack. The removal of
thinnings, pieces of felled Pine or other Pine

Fig. 25. — THE pine beetle (hylurgus piniperda).

rubbish beneath the bark of which the beetles
will tunnel and form their maggot nurseries is
also necessary. The removal of the bark
should not be permitted within the plantation.
The beetles lay their eggs on trees which have
only lately been felled, or on decaying standing
trees, and these should therefore be removsd.
Beetle-traps can be laid in the plantation and
are thus arranged : cut in the autumn a quantity
of young Scots Pine tops and thin off all the
branches. Lay these props about the young
plantations, or up against the lower part of
the standing trees, so that the under side will
rest on the ground, because the beetles will not
lay their eggs on damp, wet wood. Collect
these props in the month of June or sometimes
earlier and you will find present under the bark
a great number of the beetles.
ToMATOS : F. E. F. Shake the plants a little dur-
ing the warmest part of the day to disperse the
pollen, or touch each flower with a rabbit's tail
bearing pollen attached to a small stake.
Tomato flowers usually set easily enough later
in the season, when there is more sunshine, and
the houses are given freer ventilation. We
cannot name the plant unless you send a better
specimen.

Communications Received. — W. E. G. — C. T. D — J H

J. H. v.— D. R. W.— J. G.— C. J._B. C.-H. W.' W.—
J. C. N.-T. H.— Wright (teleeram.) We made no such
statement-De B. C.-A. D.— W. J.B.— A. D. B — O S —
B., Erfurt— J. W. B.— T. V.^Foreman-G. G.— J. j.— R
R.— W. C— R. P.- W. K.— C. R.-C. P.— A. O.-A. D.—
Mrs. S.

For Market Reports, set' page xx.

Supplement lo the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

Views in the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery .\vemie, London, EC.

JANUAKY 27, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

49

THE

6iarbcncrs'd;)ronicIe

No. 996.— SATURDAY, January 27, 1900.

CONTENTS.

Apple, a late hanging ... 61

Apple trees, canker and
frost-resisting 61

Benevolent Institution,
Gardeners' Royal ...56,59

Books, notices of —
Garden Album and Re-
view 57

Horticultural Note

Book 60

Journal of the Kew

Guild 56

' One & AH ' Gardening 57
Journal of the Royal
Horticult ural So-
ciety 58

Vegetables photo-
graphed froniNature 57

British Botanists in Pre-
toria 5S

Chinese not e-b o o k ,
leaves from my ... 60

Cider, a new market for 57

Cincliona bark 57

Coal, anthracite 61

Cypripedium x Alcibi-
ades magnilicutn ... 52

Dammer, Dr. Udo ... 57

Douglas Fir, a new in-
sect pest of the ... 57

Edinburgh Botanic
Gardens 56

Florists' flowers —
Exhibiting Chrysan-
themums 50

Chrysanthemum
Baron de Vinols ... 51

Forestry in New South
Wales 58

Fruit register-
Apple Cockpit 52

Apple Manx Codlin ... 51
Nectarine Goldoni ... 51

Fruit trees, a seasonable
wash for

Fungoid diseases and
the need for legisla-
tion

Gardener's two sons
members of Parlia-
ment

Horticultural Instructors,
an Association of ...

Marshall, Mr. W., the
proposed dinner to ...

Nicotiana Santierse, a
bed of, at Kew gardens

Obituary —

Fierens, Ernest
Moore, James

Odontoglossums, past,
present and future ..

Orange, a new variety of

Orphan Fund, Royal
Gardeners'

Plants, new or note-
worthy—
Geranium platyan-
thum ..

Rainfall in 1905, the ...

Rhubarb, the forcing of,
by the aid of ether ...

Rosary, the

Royal Botanic Society,
monetary gifts to

Societies —

Linnean

Royal Horticultural ...
Surveyor's Institution

South Eastern .Agricul-
tural College, Wye ...

Timber crops, value of

Wainsford. Lymington

Week's work, the ...53-55

Willow-woad for cricket
bats 02

62

57

58

58

61

58
63

49
59

56

T

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Citrus japonica variety ; the long-fruited Japanese

Orange 59

Cypript:dium x Alcibiades raagnificam- 52

Edinburgh Botanic Gardens, views in the (Supple-
mentary Illustration).
Fungus disease, a, that attacks young fruit trees .-. 55
Nicotiana Sanderaa flowering in the Royal Botanic Gar-
dens, Kew , ... 61

View in the gardens at Wainsford, Lymington, Hants .. 5U

ODONTOGLOSSUMS:

PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE.
''J'^HE last four years have been so remark-
able for the introduction of fine forms
of both species and hybrids that
it makes one think somewhat won-
derini;ly of what my third sectional
heading' may have in store for us. Care-
ful observers time after time have said,
" We have reached the top, there must be .1
fall in price." This meant more a waning
•of the taste for them than the financial depre-
ciation the words conveyed, but neither the
one nor the other have come to pass in a
general sense. Here and there, from special
causes, temporary retrograde movements
take place, but what is the consequence?
The succeeding wave overflows the former
one, and another wave effaces tlie temporary
trough.

The taste in Odontoglossums has changed
of late years as compared to what it was in
the days of 25 or 30 years agO', for now the
heavily blotched forms are the most-sought-
after, whereas then, the fine unspotted forms
were considered the more beautiful. There
may have been very good reasons for this
want of taste for the spotted forms, for as
there were but very few of them (and these

were not all of good shape) it did not fall to
the lot of all to see them; but slowly, though
surely, the spotted forms came to the hont,
first in the hybrids Andersonianum and Riick-
crianum, and then a little later in the spotted
and blotched crispums.

From 18S0 to 1SS5 the natural hybrids were
much in vogue, the rosy and coloured forms
being highly valued. Then in 1S86 began the
great wonders of high-priced Odontoglos-
sums, and the Orchid world was wondering
what would come of it.

We all have to thank Baron Schroder for
" leading off " in that year by the purchase
of O. excellens Knox's var. at Stevens'
Rooms on April 14, 1886, for 165 gs. This
was then called a "yellow Pescatorei," and
constituted the first well-known hybrid at a
" high price." The Baron followed it up by
buying Odonlogloosum crispum apiatum at
Protheroe's Rooms for 160 gs. upon .April ig,
1SS6. Shortly afterwards Sir Trevor Law-
rence purchased a plant at Prolheroe's Rooms
on June 4, 1S86, for 150 gs., which became
O. crispum burfordensc.

Then things were pondered over, and
nothing similar occurred for a long time;
but the ball had been started rolling with a
will, and it has never since slopped, and
shows no indication of stopping — mdecd, it
is gathering force annually, and if one
" pusher " drops out, tb.ere arc always a
ready two to take his place (and his plants
also).

The demand for " spotted crispums "
began growing, the supply came also, and
to-day U is going on merrily ; the apprecia-
tion of the hybrids became less owing to
their narrower segments, and to-day, in
comparison to a fine crispum, unspotted or
spotted, they are nowhere, and deservedly so,
as form is llie paramount factor in all flowers.
There is another good reason why the
natural hybrids could not in manv instances
possess good form : it is very improbable that
an insect should take the pollen of O. glorio-
sum to the flower of a good variety of O.
crispum, as it only seeks honey and not the
making of hvbrids. \\'e do the reverse ; we
seek hvbrids not honey (we can get that after
from the conversion of the good hybrids into
cash) ; hence our garden hybrids will Ibe
always finer in the aggregate than the natu-
ral ones.

To do ample justice to the Odontoglossums
of the present day would need a very long
article, but in a review necessarily short as
this must be, it is only necessary to name a
few of the actual leaders of the genus. It is
an invidious task to compare the great
gems, therefore I place them alphabeti-
cally : apiatum. Baroness Schroeder, Ccok-
sonac, F. K. Sander, Franz Masereel,
Luciani, Pittianum, Roger Sander. Though
these eight contain some that might be con-
sidered of the past section, they hold their
own easily among the fine ones of to-day,
and, to quote the prices these seven have
realised gives us a range of from .:£,i6S in
apiatum to £i,S<^o, the price commonly
spoken of and said to have been paid for
F. K. Sander.

It may be fairly said that the plants of
to-day are pre-eminently the blotched
crispums ; but they must possess extremely
fine form and fine markings to be able to
command these higli values.

Whilst considering the present, the garden
hybrids come to the front, in such a manner
that anyone who observes carcfullv the signs
of the times can see that they will form the
great future of the genus. In Cattleyas and
Cypripediums, it has been, so Odontoglos-
sums will follow, and the hybrids in a great
measure will displace the species, always ex-
cepting the fine varieties (of the species)
which will be more and more needed to
create new hybrids and infuse new blood, as
in the case of all other breeding of either
animal or plant life.

The first hybrid of great note, of course, is
O. ardentissimum, which we all know
approaches in its best form very nearly to a
finely blotched crispum. O. Vuylstekei, O.
Vuyistekese, O. Rolfeae, and O. Smithii take
front rank at present. The range of value
here is upwards of ^£."425, but the most re-
markable have not changed hands.

We all know that in Orchid-raising there is
no finality for the hybridist, his cry being
always " Better things are coming," and up
to the present he has not been far wrong,
though, of course, the art is only yet in its
very infancy; but if it goes on lor, say, 20
years, with the relative improving ratio of
the last 10, well, what will there be tfien for
the hybridist of that day to cry? I hope I
may be there to hear him and help him, as
now, cry out, "Better things will come."
That the future has some marvellously fine
things in store goes without saying. The
crosses made and young plants resulting con-
tain a wonderful harvest of fine things for us
all, and as each year goes by more care is
taken to cross only what will give a good
result, profiting bv the experience of past
failures, of which I am sorry to say some
raisers do not speak; if they did so, it would
be to the general benefit of all others.

Some may say that I coidd have con-
densed this article by simply stating tliat
1 considered the future of Odontoglossums
lies in the hands of the hybridist. 1 do not
hesitate to say " You are quite right, I
do,"' for certainh' it does, he will always
need the fine imported forms, but after
a time the worse natural forms will be less
and less required, except occasionally by those
who prefer to have a good variety, and by
beginners, and the cut-flower or market
traders ; for who will take the trouble to
grow and bloom thousands to get 10 or 20
worth having when he can raise them and
have certainties from ever}- pod he sows ; but
here again no one need think each one in a
pod is going to be a fine variety. There will
always be reversion, but there must be some
good ones; whereas in imported plants there
may be a fine variety, but there must be
hundreds quite worthless either for com-
mercial or amateur tastes, and in these days
it is difficult to say -which is the more
fastidious.

In considering the future, we conjecture
the possibilities of even finer things than we
are now- used to, but we have, even at present,
a very large mass of information which, if
carefully examined, w-ill give a good idea of
w-hat w-e may expect. The self-colours, if
brilliant, seem to appeal to the majority of
colourists, althougli we admire leopard-like
arrangements in Odontoglossums, and no
one will dispute the fact that w-e should all go
more or less mad if w-e obtained either a
scarlet or a blue crispum — of course, I mean
a blue crispum of fine form. The one colour
is undoubtedly possible, though it may not be
for all of us who are now working to see it.
The accession of red in Odontioda Vuylstekeae
furnishes a parallel case, and as soon as
some one gets a good pod upon crispum
crossed b\" Cochlioda Noezliana, the first step
will have been gained and the rest will only
be a process of time.

The probabilities of obtaining a blue
crispum are much further away ; but many
years ago the introducers of the blue Prim-
rose might have been considered bereft of
their senses had they prophesied they would
be able to produce one. In Odontoglossum
Smithii we have a deep violet ground colour,
the result of the rose in O. Rossii being acted
upon by the cyaneous-brown of O. Harry-
anum, even though it had passed through the
w-hite of O. crispum.

If the violet of O. Smithii could be acted
upon by the red of C. Xoezliana, we ought
(theoretically) to obtain a bluish or cyaneous
shade. If, nerchance, one of these seedlings
were to be crossed bv a verv lilac-suffused

50

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

ardentissimum, there is no telling what might
be the result, and, perhaps, by the time this
seedling is ready to cross there may be other
useful things ready for the hybridist of that
day. Violet has been produced, blue may
follow.

An article on the future without any refer-
ence to the garden-raised blotched crispum
would be incomplete and wanting in an essen-
tial point, for all of us are doing our best to
raise thi-s much-sought-for plant in quantity.
I say in quantity advisedly, for it has been
done, but if only one now and then appears
we sliall still be where we are at present. It is
amusing to see those who hold quantities
of very valuable plants attempting to destroy
their value by producing them artificially.
The reason is, I think, that none of us believe
we shall succeed so as to damage the value
of our present blotched crispums.

Hybrids between fine forms of blotched O.
crispum and O. ardentissimum will not yield
a pure blotched crispum, though they will
doubtless be near to it. Sentiment will keep
up the value of a natural crispum in a mea-
sure, and the difliculty of producing a garden-
raised one will also help, as though a hybrid
(of possibly very comple.\ parentage) in my
opinion, it is in quite a different category to
a direct hybrid like VVilckeanum, which any-
one who likes can create.

The last two years have seen the linking
up of the chain by the production of a hybrid
between a Colombian Odontoglossum and a
Brazilian Cochlioda, as well as a Mexican
Odontoglossum and a garden-hybrid (the pro-
duce of two Colombian species). These two
great " breaks away " are a grand pair of
" first footsteps " of horticultural interest, for
though it is not the first time that Mexican
and Colombian species have been united (it

havmg been effected in 1902 in the hybrid
Pescatoreo-cordatum which I have seen and
consider as only of botanic interest), O.
Smithii is the lirst true international Odonto-
glossum of any note.

Contemplating the work done already and
considering the many intelligent workers
there are both here and upon the Continent,
vvho will say that " the future " does not con-
tain a vision of hybrids that will possibly,
may probably, make some of our present-
day wonders look quite ordinary things?
I have no doubt we are upon the threshold
of a great advance in Odontoglossum raising,
and I wish all possible success to all who are
diligently working with the same object in
view as I am — improvement in this all-
absorbing study and pursuit, de B. Ccaxi.'-
shay.

WAINSFORD, LYMINGTON.

The view represented in our illustration at fig. 26
was taken from the gardens at Wainsford, Lyming-
ton, the residence of Mrs. E. Powell King. These
gardens have been greatly improved and enlarged
during recent years by their late owner, E. Powell
King, Esq., a devoted garden-lover, who spared
neither labour nor expense in his endeavours to
make his garden beautiful, but he unfortunately
died at a comparatively early age. A part of the
gardens was, five years ago, merely a piece of rough
field . A fountain now stands in the centre of this por-
tion of the grounds, and is surrounded by flower
beds, borders, and pergolas, the whole forming a
charming retreat. The basin of the fountain is
composed of an old granite cider press, which was
brought over from Guernsey for its present pur-
pose, for which it is well adapted. A pathway
composed of large stones leads to a rose garden .

the paths through which are also made of old
paving stones with box edgings.

Fig. 26 shows a portion of the original garden,
which was re-arranged during last winter, when
the wall with the archway in it was built. This
wall is faced with stone on either side, the interior
being filled with soil, to allow of plants ramifying
in the sides and also at the top. In the foreground
of the picture is part of a lily pond. There is an
open well at the junction of the paths shown, but
this was hidden by a bed of Heliotrope seen near
the figure, at the time the photograph was taken.
The greater part of the residence also was hidden by
trees from this point of view, the one in front being
a fine specimen of the Evergreen Oak. R. W. D.,
Wainsford.

FLORISTS' FLOWERS.

EXHIBITING CHRYSANTHEMXJMS.

I QUITE agree with the remarks on p. 332, Vol.
XXXVIII., that boards for exhibiting cut blooms
should be dispensed with, but it wdl take time
to elimmate them, as old customs die hard All
exhibitor having a " shady " bloom in his ex-
hibit has net much chance of escaping detec-
tion when the flowers are displayed in vases ox
as small groups of cut blooms with foliage and
plants, for then every bloom is thoroughly ex-
posed to view, while this cannot be said oS
flowers shown on boards.

One often sees at Chrysanthemum ihows
eight or ten stands of 24 Japanese blooms, all
presenting a great sameness. How much nicer
these would look were they displayed on longer
stems with plants and foliage intermixed, each
exhibitor having a space of, say, 8 feet by 4.

Fig. 20. — VIEW IN THE GARDENS AT LVMINGTOX, IIAXTS. SHOWING A NEWLY-CONSTRLXTED WALL-GARDEN IN THE BACKGROUND.

jANUAiiv 27, 10:i6.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

51

Now is the time for Chrysanthemum societies
to take these matters in hand, for there is scope
and need for originality. A Grower.

CHRYSANTHEMUM, BAROX DE VINOLS.
This variety is one of the prettiest and most
effective for decorative purposes or for groups,
but as yet it does not seem to have found its
way into English collections. I have several
times admired it abroad, where it is largely used
as a front row plant in collections in pots. Of
medium size, it is a stiff petalled Japanese of
deep rosy amaranth colour, with pure white
points, it has sported several times, Mme.
George Barre, rosy bronze, and Dr. George
Barrt, of deep rich purple amaranth colour,
being the two best of its offspring. C. H. P.

THE ROSARY.

ROSE CULTURE UNDER GLASS.

Experience, they say, has to be bought, and
generally at a dear figure. It is good, no doubt,
to gain experience at one's own cost, for, in
such cases, the first expense is probably the last,
but it is far better, if one can so arrange it, to
purchase one's knowledge at the expense of
somebody else. Some years ago, at consider-
able cost to my own pocket, I bought and
essayed to grow a number of Mar^chal Niel
Roses, and subsequently discovered that my
property consisted rather of dearly-bought ex-
perience than of Roses. Of the former I had
a good stock, of the latter very few. But I
believe that my money was well spent, for, if
I paid for my lack of knowledge and foresight
111 the first instance, I had a good stock of
wisdom for later efforts in the same direction,
and ultimately my attempts were crowned with
very respectable success. In the hope therefore
that what I have learned may be of interest to
others, and save them to some extent from
falling into the errors which I committed, I
should like to tell, as briefly as I can, the story
of my experiences as a grower of Tea-roses
under glass.

i will not pretend that any one can nowada\'s
make any considerable profit in the matter of
Rose-growing, although I believe that there
are worse things done in these degenerate
days than Rose-growing. The foreigner,
who has the climate that we in England
cannot command, is of a necessity a severe
competitor, more so to-day than he was some
ten pr twelve years ago, when I made my first
attempt at growing flowers for market. Roses,
by which I mean really good Roses, not the
poor little shrivelled-up things that are not
worth the picking, are still marketable, but if
they are to sell at remunerative prices they must
be of the very finest quality, in order to compete
with those which the foreigner sends over here
in hundreds of dozens at a time. It really costs
no more, in the long run, to produce a good
article than a bad one, because whereas the best
article vvill obtain the best price of the moment,
the slightly inferior product will fetch practic-
ally nothing in comparison. Of this latter class
the market always has plenty, and the cost of
producing them is almost as much as in the case
of that of the finest. Indeed, there are instances
in which the inferior product may have cost the
grower quite as much in hard cash, because in
his eagerness he is often induced to employ cer-
tain expensive means, which, being overdone,
do more harm than good to his crop. The
general principles of successful Rose-growing
under glass are in the main similar in all cases,
but it is the attention to small details, and an
ever-watchful supervision that lead one on the
road to success.

The very first mistake which I made was to
buy raj' Roses — Marechal Niels — at a sale. They

cost about one and sixpence each, but several
of them were not worth the value of the pots
they grew in. For the first winter I kept them
in pots, which, as I learnt later, were much too
small, and the plants made practically no
growth during the first year. The following
autumn I planted out the survivors at intervals
of a few feet in two glass hoiises — 100 feet by

14 feet each, and about 10 feet from ground
to ridge of roof in the centre of the middle
pathway. These houses, which were really too
high for their width, were used for Tomato-
growing in the summer, and for Arums and
Chrysanthemums in the winter. It is perfectly
possible to grow these crops with Roses if they
are properly arranged, the only drawback being
that the Roses do not get a rest at any time of
the year, when the house is constantly heated
during the colder months. They will, however,
do fairly well for a few years, even without
this annual rest, but their life is, I believe,
shortened thereby. Only three out of several
dozen of my Roses did any good at all after
being planted out in borders. The soil con-
sisted of a good fibrous loam, and was about
a foot in depth, made up on a hard subsoil,
partly clay and partly sandstone. The rest of
the trees either stood still or died, and had
to be replaced. Those which grew, however,
did well, and made a gr:;at deal of young
growth, which, as the veriest beginner knows,

15 essential to a good crop of blooms of nice
size and quality. One of these trees in par-
ticular thrived amazingly. In a single season
it sent out little branches of forty feet in length
in one direction, and, in the other, two of about
twenty feet. Its stem increased in the mean-
while from about the thickness of one's little
finger to a circumference of eight inches. But
it soon reached the subsoil of sour material,
became cankered, and died, as did the other
two. For two or three reasons, however, these
three trees produced a profusion of bloom, and
the largest of the trio yielded an average of
over a thousand marketable buds for two sea-
sons of its existence. The trees were liberally
fed as soon as they began, in February, to
make new growth, with top-dressings of
old stable manure and occasional applica-
tions of artificial fertiliser. The result of my
first experiment, which was of course by no
means a success as a whole, showed me what
could be done by better attention to certain
points in the future, and, as a result, my subse-
quent efforts have been distinctly more
encouraging.

My advice, therefore, to anyone who wishes
to grow Tea-roses under glass, either for profit
or pleasure, is summed up in the follow-
ing directions : Content yourself with one or
two varieties at first, say, Marechal Niel and
Niphetos — two of the best to grow, from every
point of view. Prepare vrithin your house, the
dimensions of which do not particularly matter,
so long as it is of fair size, a good deep border
of any loam of good quality, with plenty of fibre
in it, and some sound red clay mixed therewith
if you can get it ; if not, the loam alone will
do. Previous to making up your bed, which
.should be not less than eighteen inches in
depth, you must break up the subsoil roughly
to the depth of a foot, and if there is no natural
drainage, this must be supplied by laying down
a quantity of old brickbats, large stones, or
clinkers from the furnace. Mix some old rotten
manure with the soil — one part of the former
to five of the latter, and plant your trees firmly
therein at their original depth. In the case of
a lean-to house, the Roses will do better if
planted on the lower side, and trained up over
the roof towards the wall, but in a span-roof
house you will train them towards the middle
from either side. The young shoots as they
• ppear should be trained along the wires running

from end to end of the house, at a distance
of some eight inches from the glass. The trees
are best purchased from a respectable nursery-
man, and should be selected by someone who
knows what he is buying. Choose those which
show signs of active growth, and be sure that
vou get the ones which you have selected. You
should avoid any plants which have been in
pots too long which show signs of stunted
growth. Once planted, attention to tempera-
ture, ventilation, watering, and pruning cover
the chief points of cultivation. Planted in the
autumn, your trees should never be allowed to
put out growth of any consequence till the
following January at the earliest, and if all heat
can be dispensed with till then, so much the
better. The thermometer, with fire heat only,
should never rise above 60 degrees Fahr. at
first, nor over 70 degrees later on. As soon as
the young dark-coloured growth begins, and
the spring sunshine raises the temperature of
your house, the fire must be damped down
during the middle hours of the day, and a
light shading of limewash or tiffany will be
necessary. Of air your Roses must have plenty
whenever the outside temperature is not too low
or damp, but direct draughts will do irretriev-
able damage in the way of mildew, which is
always difiicult to check once it has started.
Watering must be done, whenever needed, with
tepid water, and the roots of the plants must
never be allowed to suffer for want of moisture.
You must remember also that they spread a
long way from the stem of the tree. Your trees
will require no pruning beyond cutting back
the blooming stems after flowering to within a
couple of eyes of the main branch, and thin-
ning out old wood wherever you can. Canker,
that bugbear of the Rose-grower, will overtake
your trees sooner or later, but if you have a
good reserve of young trees coming on in large
pots, you can replace any tree directly it shows
a falling off in health. And, finally, if you
follow as nearly as you can the foregoing direc-
tions, always at the same time remembering
that the greatest of all blessings to the gardener
as to others is common sense, your crop of
Roses every spring from the latter end of Feb-
ruary to the end of April should be the admira-
tion of all beholders, whether you try to turn
an honest penny by them or distribute them
among your friends. Easl Sussex.

TWO HYBRID KOSES,
Coloured figures of tvro hybrid Teas are given
in the December number of the Rosen-Zeiluiig.
Hermann Raue is a pale yellow Rose flushed
with pink. It was sent out by P. Lambert in
1904, and is the offspring of a cross between
" Grand Duchess Victoria Melita " and " La
France of 1889." Contessa Lurani is also a
hybrid Tea of deep rosy pink colour.

FRUIT REGISTER.

GOLDONI NECTARINE.

The craze for large fruits is possibly the cause
of this variety being not more often seen.
Having grown it amongst a collection of 20
varieties, and having given it a fair trial in
different aspects, I have nothing but praise for
it. The tree is a good grower, has a robust
constitution, and bears freely, the fruits being
of medium size and of a bright orange-yellow
colour, streaked with crimson. The flesh is
very rich and juicy. Goldoni was introduced
by Messrs. Rivers, and is certainly one of the
most valuable of the many varieties of Nec-
tarines raised by this firm. W. H. Clarke, Asian
l^owantj Oxon.

APPLE MANX CODLIN.

I HAVE endeavoured to propagate many varie-
ties of Apples from cuttings, but have succeeded
only with the above-named variety. Last year

52

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

I had a full crop on two bushy dwarf trees that
I raised from cuttings a iew years ago. These
trees are particularly healthy, and the really
handsome, clean fruit ripened in September to
a lovely yellow colour under a red exterior on
the sunny side. With liberal manurial aid,
these trees promise all that could be wished,
and I see no reason why any number of tiees
should not be raised in the same manner. Manx
Codlin, as an early culinary Apple, certainly
merits the attention of growers.

APPLE COCIvPIT.
In the garden at Stillington Hall, ten miles
from York, where I served my apprenticeship,
several standard trees of this Apple were planted
forty-five years ago in a grass orchard, and
the trees invariably bore heavy crops of fruit.
Visiting this garden in September last, after an
absence of thirty-six years, I found the same
Cockpit Apple trees in a still flourishing con-
dition, the long semi-drooping branches being
plentifully covered with fruit. The value of an
Apple like Cockpit, during a season such as
the past, when the Apple crop was almost nil
in parts, is extremely great, and the variety
is worthy of consideration when planting. As
the fruit ripens the colour changes to yellow.
It is a good kitchen variety in use during
November and December. E. M.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

CYPRIPEDIUM ALCIBIADES

MAGNIFICUM.

The most remarkable feature of this truly
handsome flower (fig. 27) is the great width of all
its parts. As will be seen on reference to the
figure the dorsal sepal is broadened to such a
degree as to become almost rounded in shape,
while the squat, broadened lip is in keeping with
the anterior sepal. It is the result of a cross be-
tween C. Leeanum giganteum and C. Mons de
Burt, and was shown by Major Holford at the
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, on
the gth inst., when it received a First Class Certi-
ficate.

The large dorsal sepal is white, with an emerald
green base, and dotted lines of purple. The petals
and lip are yellow, tinged and marked with purple
brown colour.

GERANIUM PLATYANTHUM,

DUTHIE N. SP.*

A VERY handsome Chinese species allied to G,
, eriostcmon , Fischer. The erect stems, which some-
times grow to a height of 3 feet, are densely
clothed with white spreading hairs and with many
gland-tipped hairs on the inflorescence and its
branches. The lower leaves have very long
petioles and are usually five-Iobed, whilst the
uppermost are almost sessile and often only
three-lobed ; the lobes are broad and coarsely
toothed, and the under surface of the leaves is
densely clothed with grey appressed shining hairs.
The corolla is 16 lin. in diameter, and of a beauti-
ful rose-purple colour. The horizontal spread
of the petals giv^s the flower a strikingly flat
appearance. Plants were raised last summer by
Messrs. J. Veitch and Sons from seed collected
by Mr. Wilson in W. Hupeh (No. 1948), and near
Ta chien lu in W. China (No. 3298). It is a taller
and more hairy plant than G. ei'iostcmon, the leaves
are not so deeply cut and the lobes are broader ;
the peduncles are shorter and stouter ; the flowers
are larger, the corolla much exceeding the calyx,
and the petals are broader and flatter ; it may
also be distinguished by the hairs on the ovary
and lower portion of the valves being tipped with
bright red glands. G. platypetalum, Franchet in
Plants Delavayana (1889), p. 777, may, from the
description, be distinguished from G . platyanthum
by the retrorsely appressed hairs on the stem, the
refiexed pedicels (after flowering) and by the much
smaller flowers.

■* Geranium platyanthum, n. sp. Caude.\ adscendens,
sublignosus. Caulis 2-3 ped., erectus, siccitate sulcatus et
subangulatus, patule pilosus, superne glandulosus. Folia
ambitu late reniformia, 5-7 poll, lata, e basi ad apiceiu
2-4 poll., supra adpresse pubescentia, subtus dense canes-
centi-villosa, ad medium 3-5-Iobata, sinubus acutis ; lobi
ovaio-oblongi, interdum obscure 3-lobulati, grosse inciso-
dentati, dentibus cuspidatis ; petioli inferiores ad 1 ped.
longi, dense pilosi ; stipulae binse, 9 lin. longie, ad basim
5 lin. latfe, caudato-acuminat^e, marginibus ciliatis. Pe-
dunculi duo vel plures, axillares ; folia floralia bina,
supcrioria ssepe valde diminuta et sessilia ; pedicelli dense
glanduloso-pilosi, in fructu erecti ; bracteje binje stipulis
similes sed muito minores. Alabastra ovato-elliptica,
nutantia. Sepala 7 lin. longa, 3 lin. lata, elliptico-oblonga,
cuspidata, 3-5-nervosa, externe pilis glandulosis canes-
entia. Corolla 16 lin. diametro ; petalis omnino patentibus,
roseo-purpureis, bast rotundato-quadratis, ad apicem in-
tegris aut interdum sub emarginatis ; unguiculd minima, ima
barbata. Filamenta gradatim deorsum dilatata, dorso, versus
basim, pilis longis candidis munito. Ovarium pilis nitidis
rubro-capitatis densis obsitum. Carpella (cum rostro) 15
poll, longa, valvulis patentiin glanduloso-hirsutis, rostro 10
lin. longo, pilis brevioribus sursuiu dircctis. Scraina non
visa. J. F. Duthic, Kck\

the advice of plant pathologists of high scienti-
fic authority.

I will consider now the cases quoted first
by Mr. Massee, viz., the following six diseases :
(1) The wheat-rust; (2) the maize-smut; (3) the
hollyhock-rust ; (4) the bean-rust ; (5) a fungus
attacking lucerne ; (6) a fungus attacking Ver-
bena. These cases are given as instances of
" diseases that appear when the host-plant is
introduced to distant localities, even to a new
continent, where the fungus was not known to
exist previous to the introduction of its host-
plant." Mr. Massee states further : " A point
of importance in connection with the above
examples is the fact that in every instance the
introduction to a new country must necessarily
have been by means of seed," and tells us we
may accept "without doubt as the true solution"
the supposition that the spores of the funga;

c^T^RD C n Rp N

Fig. 27. — CYPRIPEDIUM X ALCIBIADES MAG.MFICUM, AS EXHIBITED BY M.\JOK HGLl-ORD
AT THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY'S MEETING ON JANUARY Q.

LEGISLATION WITH RESPECT
TO PLANT DISEASES CAUSED BY
FUNGL

In some recent numbers of this journal, an
article appeared entitled, " Legislation and
the Spiead of Plant Diseases caused by Fungi."
In this article, professing to deal with the gener-
al question of the possibility of employing
legislative means against fungus diseases of cul-
tivated plants, Mr. Massee cites a number of
specific diseases, and claims that in many of
tliese preventive legislation would be imprac-
ticable.

The object of the present paper is to consider
some of these cases ; to show that certain of
the assumptions made are unsupported ; to cor-
rect a serious misstatement made in connection
with a recently-introduced Gooseberry disease ;
and, finally, to refer to some of the legislative
steps taken by several Governments acting on

causing the disease " were imported along with
the seed, adhering to its surface."

We may first ask whether the cases chosen
may be regarded as representative of fungus
diseases against which plant pathologists have
recommended legislation ; and, sect^pdly,
whether there is really scientific proof of this
introduction into foreign lands of new diseases
by means of seed. It will be worth while to
eiiamine the cases separately.

(1) The wheat-rust fungus is often found in a
vegetative state within the coats of the wheat
grain.

(2) The maize-smut is one of the Ustilagineas,
a group of fungi peculiar in producing its spores
in the ovary of the diseased plant.; wh-3n ripe
the spores disperse, and adhere to neighbour-
ing seeds.

Cases (1) and (2), then, may be regardci as
quite exceptional, since the fungus chose/, is
one specialised as a seod-inhabiting fungus.

January 27, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

53

(3) The hollyhock-rust. Prof. H. Klebahn—
an authority on the Vrcdinccc — to whom I ap-
plied for information — states that the exact man-
ner of the first introduction of this disease into
Europe is still an unsolved problem.

(4) The bean-rust. Mr. Massee states that he
found this species on French beans grown at
the Botanic Station, British East Africa, and
assumes that rust-spores must have been sent
out with the bean seed to Africa. No proof,
however, that this really occurred is given ; and
it may be pointed out that it is quite as likely
that the fungus in this case is indigenous to
Africa, and that it has spread to the culti-
vated beans from some allied indigenous wild
plant — just as "it is almost certain that the
coffee-leaf disease passed on to cultivated coffee
from a native wild plant." (See Massee, " Text,
■book of Plant Diseases," p. 28.)

(5) The lucerne fungus referred to is, I pre-
sume, Uromyces striatus. I can find no evi-
dence given anywhere that it has been intro-
duced to foreign lands in the manner assumed.

(6) The Verbena fungus referred to is (as I
happen to know from material received at the
same time), the conidial (Oidium) stage of one
of the F.rysiphaceae, probably Erysiphe Cichora.
cearum IDC. In this case it is certain that
Mr. Massee's assumption that introduction into
Australia took place by means of spores adher-
ing to seeds is incorrect, since it has been
proved that the summer spores lose their power
of germination in a few days. Moreover, as E.
Cichoracearum is a cosmopolitan species, it is
only reasonable to suppose that in this case
nothing more has happened than that the fun-
gus has spread from some native host-plant to
the cultivated plants of Verbena.

Three of the last four cases belong to the
rusts ; the fourth must certainly be e.\cluded
from the category in which it is placed. Now,
the view that rusts, on account of their wide
distribution, are among the fungus diseases
which cannot be reached by legislation was
very clearly put forward in 1897 by Prof. B. T.
Galloway (Chief of the Division of Vegetable
Pathology, U.S. Department of Agriculture), in
some remarks to which 1 shall refer again later.

We shall obtain no clear view as to what
could be effected by legislation, if we confuse
together, as Mr. Massee has done, diseases
which are practically cosmopolitan, with those
which appear first as epidemic diseases confined
to definite areas. It is the stamping out of the
diseases of the latter class, and the prevention
of their introduction or re-introduction, which
lie within the province of legislation.

Mr. Massee writes : " Packets of a dozen
kinds of seeds purchased at random were care-
fully examined, and in four instances spores of
the fungus well known as causing a disease on
the plant in question were obtained from the
seeds." To what fungi did the spores belong?
Were they spores of fungi causing local epi-
demic diseases, such as those against which
legislative means have been employed, or have
been recommended? Without the names of the
fungi being given, the statement can carry little
or no scientific value.

The further statement that " apple-tree mil-
dew " cannot be detected when the apple foliage
is not present, " as the mycelium of this fun-
gus hybernates in the branches," is not sup-
ported by the observations I have made on this
disease. There are always present in winter
some external signs of the disease, if not in
the presence of black fruit-bodies, then in the
form of more or less conspicuous hybernating
superficial patches of mycelium. No scientific
proof has yet been given that the mycelium
enters the tissues of the branches.

I must now refer to the statements made in
connection with a dangerous disease recently
introduced into Ireland. Writing on this dis-
ease, Mr. Massee remarks : " The point is, was
it (1) introduced on living plants in its fully-
developed conspicuous condition, in which case

it could not have escaped the eye of an official
on the look out for diseases? Or (2) did it come
under the form of spores adhering to the plant,
which in due season produced the disease? In
the latter case no official, however observant,
could have detected its presence. To state that
if legislation on the point had been in force
the disease would not have entered Ireland is
only the expression of an enthusiast, and will
not bear criticism."

I have carefully studied this disease, and fol-
lowed the course of the outbreak \n Ireland
since it occuried in 1900; and I have, in an
article just preceding Mr. Massee's in this jour-
nal, as well as on sever.il occasions in the
Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, ad-
vocated prompt action by the -Authorities, and
the employment of legislative measures to stamp
out the disease.

I state here again emphatically that if legis-
lation, such as that employed against this dis-
ease by other countries at the present time,
had been in force, the disease would almost cer-
tainly have been prevented from entering Ire-
land. That stage of the fungus, viz., the stage
in which the fungus is carried about by naked
spores adhering to the plant, assumed above
(2) by Mr. Massee, does not, as a matter of
fact, occur in the life-history of the fungus.
In the whole group of these mildews, the rest-
ing spores are enclosed in conspicuous fruit-
bodies throughout the winter, and are not to be
found as isolated spores adhering to plants ;
only in the spring at the moment of infection
are the resting spores of the fungus liberated.
Further, in the case of the present disease, tEe
fungus is distinguished by possessing persistent
superficial brown mycelial patches, in which
the fruit-bodies enclosing the winter spores are
embedded. These brown patches of mycelium
are superficial on the young wood, and being
conspicuous the disease can easily be detected.
Hence Mr. Massee's assumption that no offi-
cial could detect the disease on imported stock is
quite unfounded ; his failure to ascertain the
life-history of the fungus seems to show that
his article was written from a preconceived
opinion that legislation in this case, as in other
cases quoted by him, is impracticable.

And here, in a few words, I should like to
recall the main facts concerning the outbreak
of this new disease threatening Gooseberry
growers in Europe. The disease was first ob-
served in 1900, in a garden in Ireland ; by 1904
it was established in nine localities in six coun-
ties. In spite of repeated warnings, which I
gave in several papers, published in 1900-1805,
dealing with this dangerous disease, no system-
atic attempt has yet been made by the Authori-
ties to stamp out the disease in Ireland, or to
prevent further importation of diseased Goose-
berry bushes.

-At the present time the disease still flour-
ishes in the very same garden in which it was
observed in 1900.

Let us remember that the danger in connec-
tion with this disease, which now confronts
Gooseberry growers, is no problematical one.
The disease has proved year after year in the
United States, and in Europe every year since
its introduction, to be a most devastating one.
In my previous articles the extracts I
have given from a number of Bulletins of
various American agricultural experiment sta-
tions, also from the report of the Commissioners
of Agriculture, show that the mildew is the one
great enemy of the Gooseberry in the United
States. In Bulletin No. 39 of the Idaho Agri-
cultural Experiment Station, just received, Prof.
L. F. Henderson writes of the mildew as " one
of the three most serious diseases of fruits " in
that State ; and makes the following observa-
tion : " Eight or ten rows of Gooseberries were
plantcj on our station ground several years ago,
and I am perfectly safe in saying that from
that time till 1903 not a single crop of fruit
was gathered, owing to the presence of the
mildew." In the Year-book of the Department

of Agriculture (United States) for 1899, in an
article on " Progress of Plant-breeding," an ac-
count is given of how the .American Gooseberry
growers were forced to give up the cultivation
of the European Gooseberry on account of its
susceptibility to mildew, and have had to de-
pend upon raising improved strains of native
American species, which are much less suscept-
ible to the disease.

This Gooseberry disease is now reported in
Europe from Ireland, Russia, Denmark, and
Germany. During last June it was discovered in
Sweden ; the Government of that country de-
creed immediately a temporary prohibition
against the importation of foreign Gooseberry
plants and Gooseberries. I have received within
the past few days a communication that the
disease has now appeared in Finland, and that
legislation on the same lines is to be at once
employed.

In the case of the coffee-leaf disease, caused
by the fungus Hemileia vastatrix, strenuous
measures were taken by the Government to con-
trol the disease and prevent its introduction into
the West Indies and into Africa. Will nothing
be done to stamp out the Gooseberry disease
in Ireland — where it constitutes a standing
menace to the English grower — and prevent any
further importation of diseased Gooseberries?
Ernest S. Salmon, Soulh-Eastern Agricultural Col.
lege, Wye, Kent.

{To be coniiniu-il.)

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By \V. H. Whui;, Orchid Grower to Sir Tkevok L.^\vrenxe,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Catlleya Trians.—The many beautiful forms
of this species now coming into bloom will re-
quire to be kept moist at the root until the
howers are fully developed. C. Schrodera; is
just beginning to show its flower buds at the
base of the sneath, and will also require more
water at the root. When the flowers have been
cut of the following hybrids now in bloom :
C. Octave Doin, Eaiiio-Cattleya Charlesworthii,
L.-C. lUustra;, L.-C. Myra, L. Haroldiana,
Brasso-Cattleya Queen Alexandra, B.-C. Orpheus
and Brasso-i.iElia Mrs. M. Gratin, let the
plants be kept rather on the dry side until
growth recommences. Congeneric species and
hybrids that are making new growth should be
afforded sufficient warmth, light and moisture
to enable them to complete strong flowering
pseudo-bulbs that will flower well C. gigas,
C. Dowiana and its variety aurea appear to
require exceptional treatment. Immediately
these plants start into growth they should be
elevated so that their loliage almost touches
the roof glass of the house, for the more
light they can get without strong direct sun-
shine, the more likely are they to produce
flowering growths. Water must only be afforded
m small quantities until the new growths have
attained a considerable length, and the flower
sheaths are perceptible, when the amount
should be increased, and each plant be given
a good watering when the soil has become suffi-
ciently dry. Do not keep the compost in a
saturated condition, or the old roots may decay.
Ca-logynes.—Vlants of the useful species C.
cnstata, also its varieties Lemoniana and
holoeuca, will now bs coming into bloom.
Before the flowers are open a thorough watering
of w-eak liquid cow-manure will greatly assist
the plants during their flowering period. When
the flowers have commenced to open very little
water is then needed, for if kept too moist at
the roots the flowers are apt to damp off. C.
pandurata is just commencing to grow, and
may be repotted if necessary'. It is a strong
growing species and requires considerable space
to root in and abundance of water until growth
is completed. When repotting the plants cut
away all useless back pseudo-bulbs, two being
quite sufficient to support each leading growth.
Afiord plenty of drainage material and the
plant will succeed very well if potted in the
usual mixture of peat and sphagnum-moss. As
regards temperature, a moist warn; i,uiiiet ol
the East Indian house is the most suitable foi

54

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

this species. The hard, shining leaves are often
attacked by red spider, and they should be
sponged often and periodically. The same at-
mospheric temperature will also suit C. Meyer-
iana, but this species succeeds best when
planted in a shallow basket, and owing to its
scandent habit, it is necessary to train and peg
down each rambling rhizome on to the surface
of the compost. Both species require to be
shaded from the sun.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to F. Sl-tton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.

Azaleas. — Examine the stock of these, and
remove any sour soil Or moss there may be on
the surface over the roots of any plant ; afterwards
apply a top-dressing of a compost consisting of
peat, sand, charcoal-dust, and finely broken crocks^
mi.\ed well togeiher. iVIuch benefit will be
derived from tins top-dressing, for the roots will
be more active at the time when the plants need
additional support as they are developing their
flowers ; the flowers will be found to have much
more substance and colour than those on plants
which are not so treated. Any plants that may
have got into a starved, stunted condition through
inattention to potting or from overflowerihg (a
frequent cause of impoverishment in Azaleas),
should be denuded of their flowerbuds for aseason.
Afterwards place the plants in an atmospheric
temperature of 70°, and so soon as growth has com-
menced repot the plants, and return them to the
same warm atmosphere, where they should be
syringed freely. By this treatment the plants may
be thoroughly renovated by the flowering season.

Lapagerias. — The roots of Lapagerias are now
becoming active, and any plants requiring pot-
ting or replanting should be given early atten-
tion, for if left until spring there will be
risk of damaging the young shoots and roots.
The securing of drainage is most important, for
the plants require copious supplies of water
during the summer months. Insufficiency of
the water supply to the roots is the cause of
many failine to grow and flower this plant
successfully. Frequent applications of liquid
manure and soot water — the latter especially —
are very beneficial, and the soot water is dis-
tasteful to slugs, which are so fond of the young
shoots.

Achimenes. — These plants are too often cast
aside by plant growers. The first batch of
tubers should now be started, and if succes-
sional lots are introduced until the end of
the month of May, they will ensure a continu-
ance of bloom. When the tubers have made
shoots an inch or two in length, transplant them
into the pots, pans, or baskets in which they
are intended to flower. Basket culture is the
best for producing effect, and if the different
colours are mixed, the result is all the more
striking. The plants delight in much heat,
moisture, and partial shade from sunshine when
making their growth, but when in bloom they
may with safety and good effect be removed to
the greenhouse or conservatory. A compost of
peat and leaf-mould in equal parts, with well
decomposed sheep manure added, also some
sand, will be found to suit them best.

General Remarks. — Another batch of Hippe-
astrunis (Amaryllis) should be started in an
intermediate temperature. It is not necessary
to plunge the pots in bottom heat at this time,
as they will readily respond to the extra heat
afforded. Continue to bring forward into gentle
heat bulbs of various kinds, also plants of Lilac,
Spiraeas, Deutzias, Azalea mollis. Clematis, and
Rhododendrons, all of which will be required
to keep the conservatory gay from now onwards.
I'lants growing in rockeries or underneath the
fronts of stages should be thoroughly cleansed
during next month, at the same time adding a
little fresh material to the roots. Take advan-
tage of an evening when the weather is calm to
fumigate all plant-houses, thus preventing in-
sects from establishing themselves early in the
season.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNsHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Fines. — .Successional plants should not be
allowed to become very dry at their roots, there-
fore those that are plunged near to the hot-
water pipes will require daily attention in this

matter. Maintain a steady bottom heat of 75°,
and an atmospheric temperature at night of 60°.
Early Fig Trees in Fois. — Tho'se that were re-
moved to the forcing house at the beginning of
December will soon be unfolding their tender
leaves, and will require plenty of water both at
their roots and in the atmosphere; otherwise
red spider will be almost sure to attack them.
If it is convenient to plunge the pots in a bed
composed of leaves, which would give a tem-
perature of 75° to 80°, this will encourage
quicker root action, and the fruits will swell
more rapidly. The atmosphere of the house
should be kept at a temperature of 68° by daj'
and 60° at night, admitting a little air when-
ever the weather is favourable, but closing the
house early in the afternoons and syringing the
trees immediately afterwards.

Permanent Trees. — It sometimes happens that
a house cannot be set apart exclusively for the
culture of Fig trees, and in such cases one has
to us© the back walls of Vineries and Peach
houses for the purpose. The trees will succeed
very well on the back walls of Vineries, provid-
ing their roots are kept within bounds, and this
can in most cases be accomplished by building
a brick wall, or by using thick slate slabs to
confine the border. Narrow and shallow bor-
ders are far preferable to large ones, which tend
to promote thick, sappy, and unfruitful growths.
It must be remembered that when Fig trees are
planted in Vineries and Peach houses they will
have to be subjected to the same temperatures
as the Vines and Peach trees ; therefore plant
them in houses where the conditions are likely
to be most suitable. Later trees should now be
thinned out a little, leaving the fruit-bearing
shoots 8 or 9 inches apart, for their large leaves
Avhen fully developed require a great amount of
space. Afford the roots a topdressing consist-
ing of loam and old mortar rubble, with about
3 inches of cow manure to finish off with.

Strawberries in Pots. — The first batch of these
that were started in December in a temperature
of 45° at night should now be placed on a shelf
well up to the glass, and be allowed 10° more
warmth at night, and 15° by day, giving them
twice a week a little weak manure water, which
will greatly assist the flower scapes to get well
above the foliage. Syringe the plants on all
favourable occasions until they get well into
bloom, when the foliage and flowers should be
kept in a drier condition, and at the same time
a little more air may be admitted to the struc-
ture. Pollenise each individual flower with a
camel's hair brush every day at noon until 5 or
6 fruits are set on each plant, after which the
other flowers should be cut off without delay, in
order to induce the remaining fruits to swell
more rapidly. Strawberry plants give a much
belter yield if some manure from an old Mush-
room bed be run through a riddle (J inch mesh)
and be placed on the shelf for them to stand on.
Roots then emerge from the bottom of the pot
into and feed in this soil, which also acts as a
store for moisture, and thus secures a double
benefit.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Mint and Tarragon should be lifted and boxed
up in readiness for placing in an atmospheric
temperature of 55°. The heat may be lessened
after a start has been made, in order that the pro-
duce may become strongly flavoured. The best
way of meeting the demand for these herbs is to
propagate cuttings in frames in August (if a clean,
healthy stock can be got) and to grow these young
plants in 6 in. pots. It is surprising the amount
of growth they will produce throughout the winter
when grown in an atmosphere of intermediate
temperature. The difficulty in August is to get
cuttings of mint that are clear of rust, the presence
of which would be fatal to this method of procedure.

?Iorse Fadish. — A fresh plantation should be
made yearly of horse radish. Lift the old
plantation and select long straight pieces of
roots. Make holes with a bar on well-trenched
ground and place one piece in each. The lines
should be made at 2 feet apart and the cut-
tings inserted at 9 inches distance from each
other. The strong crowns can be stored awav
behind a wall or in any cool niace for use when
required. There is no comnarison between
well-grown roots that are straight and fleshy and

the old stunted pieces that result from growing
the plants too long without replanting.

Mushrooms. — Continue to collect daily from
the stables all the horse-droppings and place
them over the floor in a dry shed. When suffi-
cient have been collected to form a bed, put
the whole together in a conical heap to ferment,
and at the same time cover them over an inch
or so deep with loamy soil to help absorb the
■ immonia that would otherr.ise escape into the
atmosphere. \ few half-decayed leaves are an
excellent addition when dropoings are scarce,
and especially helpful are these leaves to the
spawn when running through the bed. I have
often noticed the spawn clinging to these. Turn
the heap over several times before it gets too
hot, otherwise many of the good properties will
be lost. Informing the bed be careful to spread
the manure thinly and equally all over in order
that the heat may rise regularly. Make the
materials as firm as possible by trampling or by
other means when it is not convenient to tread
them. AVhen the heat of the bed has risen to
its highest degree and has fallen again to 85 de-
grees, insert the pieces of spawn at 9 inches
apart and immediately cover with good soil.
We use roughly-chopped-up turf with good re-
sults, but it is well beaten down. An atmos-
pheric temperature of 55 to 58 degrees is a very
suitable one, but more heat than this shortens
the duration of the crop. An excellent sub.sti-
tute for heating by hot-water pipes may be pro-
vided by a succession of hot beds, which give
off just the kind of heat best suited to mush-
rooms.

Lettuces. — Successional sowings must be
made regularly. Sow the seeds in boxes at pre-
sent, as the plants can then be easily shifted
about. Any seedlings requiring to be pricked off
should be given attention without delay ; prick
them into rich soil in boxes. Select such varies
ties as Commodore Nutt and any of the small-
liearting Cabbage varieties which begin to
" head-in " early and are much appreciated in
early spring. Sowings of Cos varieties may
be made now with every prospect of success.
I'lants from these sowings will be in fine condi-
tion to plant on to hot-beds during February.

Radishes. — Sowings of these may be made
regularly on hot-beds ; also on ground where
Potatos have been planted. The Radishes may
be sown broadcast, for good roots may be had
in this way without interfering with the Potato

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of PLYM0t;TH,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Bedding Begonias. — The great improvement
which has taken place in the varieties during
the last few years, together with the recognition
of their complete hardiness for growth outside
during summer, has caused the tuberous-rooted
Begonia to become a feature in every garden
where summer bedding is practised. The rich
colours of the flower, the profuse blooming of
the plant during the months of June, July,
August, and September, the ease with which
plants can be raised from seed, and the con-
venient way in which the tubers can be stored
during winter, all contribute to the popularity
of Begonias as bedding plants. Easy of culture.
Begonias possess another advantage over many
other plants in their adaptability to a wet
summer, for although the plants enjoy bright
sunshine, yet they give unstintingly of their
wealth of flowers even in a dull, moist season,
when the majority of flowering bedding plants
are unattractive. When allocating the position
of the Begonia beds in the flower garden scheme
it is advisable to choose one which has full
exposure to the sun, but at the same time en-
deavour to secure one in which the plants will
be protected from the prevailing winds. The
growths being soft and brittle are apt to be
broken if wind-swept, and the drying effects of
such winds are inimical to the best culture of
the plant ; therefore, precautions should be
taken to guard against them. The preparation
of the beds, if not filled with spring-flowering
plants, might very appropriately be done at the
^resent time. The special requirement to attain
the best results in Begonia culture is plenty of
good, well-matured farmyard manure. It is most
important that in preparing the beds the first
consideration shall be given to providing this in
quantity. Leaf-mould and sand should be

January 27, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

00

added if the soil in the beds is in any degree
inclined to be heavy. Tubers that have been
stored away during the winter should, at the
present time, be carefully examined and cleaned.
Two or three weeks hence will be time enough
to place them in shallow boxes filled with leaf-
mould, leaving the crowns exposed and placing
the boxes in gentle heat to start the tubers into
growth. When the shoots have grown an inch or
so in length, the tubers must be taken out of the
leaf-mould and potted up singly, in a compost
of loam and leaf-mould in equal portions, with
sufficient sand to keep it open. The size of the
pots must depend upon the size of the tubers.
For some time after potting, let the plants be
grown in an atmosphere of intermediate tem-
perature, and as near to the glass as possible
to prevent them being drawn. As soon as
numerous roots have been formed, supply the
plants with abundance of water, but be careful
to ascertain that each pot is well drained. By
the month of May they will be growing
strongly and freely, and should be removed to
cool frames, where though avoiding cold
draughts, plenty of air must be afforded them,
and at the same time care should be taken that
they never suffer through becoming dry at the
roots. Treated thus, by June they will have
formed sturdy, robust flowering plants fit fur
planting out in the beds prepared for them.

Raising Seedlings.— Yiom the present time
until the end of February seeds may be sown
for increasing one's stock of Begonia. Good
unnamed varieties raised from a reliable strain
of seeds are every bit as valuable for bedding out
as the best named sorts. Sown in colours, and
in quantity, the seedlings can be reasserted
correctly into distinct colours, when they show
flower in the first year, and then grouped suit-
ably for any colour arrangement for the sumnu r
bedding in following years. Sow the seed in
well-drained pans of finely-sifted loam and leaf-
mould in equal proportions, adding some coarse
sand and making the surface even and flat
before sowing. The soil should be watered pre-
vious to the sowing, and afterwards, when neces-
sary to apply water, it should be done by dipping
ping the pans into a tank, allowing the moisture
to reach the surface of the soil by capillary
attraction. This is preferable to running the
risks accruing by direct applications of water
from a pot, no matter how fine the rose that is
used may be. As the seeds are extremely small,
great care must be exercised to distribute them
thinly and evenly on the surface. To achieve
this, a good plarf is to mix them with some fine
silver sand. After sowing, cover the pans with
glass, shade them with paper, and plunge them
in a slight bottom heat in an atmospheric tem-
perature of about 70°. When the seedlings
appear, expose them gradually to light and air
to prevent their becoming drawn, and when large
enough to be handled, prick them out into fresh
pans. Continue to grow them on in moderate
heat and near to the glass, but take care to
protect them constantly from bright sunshine.
About April they will require transplanting into
single pots. In July and August many will
show flowers, and the plants can be sorted into
colours as above suggested.

quires to be replaced with new growths. When
the work has been done rake up and burn all
the rubbish, and afterwards apply a good dress-
ing of lime over the ground, dusting the trees
with lime at the same time. Black Naples,
and Carter's Prolific are good varieties. In
making a new plantation, it would be pirudent
to trench another plot of ground in a different
part of the garden.

Pear Enemies. — If the trees were attacked last
season by the Pear midge (Diplosis pyrivora) or
the ermine moth, steps should be taken to

and scrub behind the main trunk of the trees.
If this solution be well worked into all holes
and crevices, the caterpillars and chrysalids will
be destroyed. Should any of the trees have
suffered from red spider add 1 lb. of sulphur ta
the above mixture. Another application may
be given the trees in April just before the flowers
commence to open.

Fungus Disease on Apple Trees (see fig. 28). — •
A disease has in recent years attacked the
main stems of youne Apple trees, especially
those growing on a stiff or clay soil. The first

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,

Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.
Red Currants. — Young plants having a stem of 7
inches and consisting of three or four shoots
should be cut back to three or four eyes on each
shoot from which two shoots should be encour-
aged to grow. If the plants are standards, prune
the shoots back to three eyes and keep the main
stem steady and straight by affixing a stout stake.
Those planted against walls should be pruned back
to three or four buds and the terminal growths
nailed up straight. Young trees may be pruned
back to three eyes and the centre shoot fixed
perpendicularly to the wall, the shortened shoots
on either side being trained in a horizontal
position.

Black Currant Bushes. — These should now be
taken in hand, and if any mite (Phytoptus
ribis) is present, pick off all buds that have
swelled above the normal size and burn them.
If the bushes are very badly affected it will be
better to root them up and burn them. Very
little pruning is necessary, but the bushes
should be kept in good shape by systematically
removing some of the oldest wood, which re-

V^-^^^^ "^y-e^.y^

Fig. 28. — EUTYPELLA PRUNASTRI.
(See paragraph in "Hardy Fruit Garden" Calendar.)

A A young Peach branch becoming shrivelled, indicat-
ing that the stock is dying. (Natural size).

B The conidial stage of fruit bursting tlirough the bark.
(Natural size).

c The second or ascigerous condition of fruit showing
at the surface through transverse cracks in the
bark. Natural size).

cleanse them in the following manner. Obtain
a good insecticide — XL-all is very good for the
purpose — and syringe every portion of the tree
with insecticide. A home-made remedy may be
made up as follows : Dissolve about 7 or 8 lbs.
of soft soap in 7 gallons of boiling water; to this
add h gallon of petroleum and stir them well
together, making it up to 27 gallons by adding
rain or other soft water. This should be mixed
together thoroughly, and be afterwards applied
vigorously all over the tree by means of a
syringe, wetting every portion. If the trees are
growing against walls, get a scrubbing brush

D Surface of view of the second form of fruit, sur-
rounded by the ruptured bark (x 40).
E Cruciate mouth of a perithecium. (x 400).
F Ascus and spores, (x 400).

G Section through ascigerous form of fruit. (X So).
H Section through conidial form of fruit, (x 30).
Coiiidia (X 1,000).

symptoms of the disease is the premature decay-
ing and falling of the leaves, followed by a.
drying up and shrivelling of the bark on the
stem during the spring following, and minute
cracks appear in the bark. The spores of the
fungus are mature during late spring, and it is
at this season that infection takes place. In
order to prevent spores germinating on the sur-
face or stem, paint the entire surface with the
following solution : Take 4 lbs. of soft soap,
1 lb. of caustic soda, and 1 lb. of lime. Mix
these thoroughly together in 5 gallons of soft
water, and apply with a stiff brush.

56

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE,

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as spccimem and plants
for namini;, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Covimwii cat ions should be written on one side onlv of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the zvcek as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature k'HI not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— r^if Editor docs not
undertake to pay for ajiy contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustratiens, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, floivers, trees, &c. ; but he
cannot be respotisibic for lossor injury.

APPOINTMENTS.

SATURDAY,

Jan.

2/

THURSDAY,

Feb.

I

FRIDAY,

Feb,

2

SATURDAY,

Feb.

3

THURSDAY,

Feb.

6

FRIDAY,

Feb.

9

SATURDAY,

Feb.

10

MONDAY,

Feb.

12

TUESDAY,

Feb.

13

THURSDAY,

Feb.

l"i

FRIDAY,

Feb.

2^

SATURDAY,

Feb.

24

Nat. .'\uricula Soc. {Northern Sec-
tion) Ann. Meet, at Manchester.
Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet at
Richmond.

Linnean Soc. meet.

Ann. Meet. Roy. Scottish Arbori-
cultural Soc.

Society Francaise d'Hort. de
Londres meet. German Gar-
deners' Soc. meet.

Nat. Amateur Gardeners' Assoc,
meet.

Ann. Meet, and Election of Can-
didates of the Royal Gardeners'
Orphan Fund at Simpson's
Restaurant, loi, Strand, London,
at 3 p.m.

Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet.

U. Hort. Ben. and Prov. Soc.
Com. meets.

Ann. Meet, of the Roy. Hort. Soc.
at 3 p.m. Committees meet at 12
noon.

Linnean Soc. meet.

Roy. Botanic Soc. meet.

Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chisvvick~38'9°.
Actual Temperatures: —

London. — Wednesday, Jan. 24 (G P.M.) : Max. 40'; Min.
a9°.
Gardeners' Chroniele Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, fan. 25 (10
a.m.): Bar., 29 »; Temp., 49'; Weather— Uuch
rain.
Provinces. — Wednesday, Jan. 24 (G p.m.) : Max. ol'N.W.
Ireland ; Min. 37^ Bury St. Ednmnds.

SALES.

MONDAY, TUESDAY, and WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Important Sale of Nursery Stock at the Nurseries, South
Woodford, by order of Mr. J. Eraser, by Frotheroe &
Morris, at 11.

MONDAY NEXT—

Roses, Herbaceous and Border Plants, Lilies, Azaleas,
&c., at 67 and 6B, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe &.
Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Sale of Roses, Lilies, Shrubs, &c., at Stevens' Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden.

WEDNESDAY NE.KT—

Herbaceous and other plants. Gladiolus, Lilies,
Begonias, Spiraeas, &c., at 12 ; Roses, Fruit Trees, Palms,
Azaleas, &c., at i and 3, at 67 & 6S, Cheapside, K.C., by
Protheroe & Morris.

■WEDNESDAY NEXT—

1665 c/s Japanese Liliums, Tuberoses. Lily-of-the-Valley,
&c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris,
at 3.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Imported and Established Orchids in variety, also choice
Hybrid Cattleyas, Laelias and Lfelio-Cattleyas, at 67 and
68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.30.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Hardy border plants and bulbs, Roses, Azaleas, &c., at
67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

The
Gardeners*
Bene-
volent.

Whilst in many places on
on the 18th inst. elections were
taking; place with the usual ac-
companiment of noise, reckless
statements, counter assertions,
and partisan prejudices, there was one elec-
tion which \s'as carried out with decorum
and, we venture to say, absolute unanimity.
Some were no doubt anxious for the success
■of one candidate, whilst others cast their
votes in favour of another. But everyone
admitted that all the candidates were worthy
and duly qualified, and the only reg-ret felt
was that they could not all be elected. The
election we refer to was that of the Gar-

deners' Royal Benevolent Institution. The
annual meeting- of the society was held
after we had gone to press, so that
we were not able to announce the re-
sults of the voting in our last issue.
Tb.e chair was occupied by Mr. Harry
Veitch, the treasurer. The attendance was
not large, but the business was carried out
with the usual mechanical precision. Reso^
lutions were proposed, seconded, and carried
nein. cou. with little or no discussion. All
felt that the society is doing excellent work
'and that the management could not be in
better hands. Indeed, the officers and com-
mittee have earned the gratitude of the gar-
deni'Sg community for their devotion to the
interests of the society and the excellent way
in which they carry out its management.
The objections that we used occasionally to
hear have been met by judicious alterations
in the regulations, and no one can justly
complain that any one class of candidate is
favoured at the expense of another. No one
can say "that the Metropolis and its neigh-
bourhood have a monopoly, for the candidater-
hail from all parts of the country. More-
over, the establishment of those two most
excellent adjuncts — the Victorian Era Fund
and the Satnaritan Fund — afford an indica-
tion of the desire of the committee to meet,
so far as possible, the needs and the emer-
gencies of all classes. We should greatly
like to see those special funds largely aug-
mented, and we should be delighted to see
the gardeners rallying round the society and
co-operating to aid their less fortunate fel-
lows to a much larger extent than they do
at present. As things are, the society has
stiu to rely on the antiquated methods of
begging, at, and in connection with, a
public dinner, and on, we can but con-
sider, an objectionable system of vot-
ing. This system, which is prevalent
in most similar societies, entails an un-
necessary amount of trouble and expense
on the candidates and their friends, and is a
source of annoyance to the subscribers for
weeks or even months before each election.
A better plan, we venture to think, would be
to abolish all personal canvassing and to
allow the committee to select a certain num-
ber from the list of duly approved candidates,
submit that list to the meinbers of the society
at the annual meeting for modification, re-
jection, or confirmation as the case may be.
Differences of opinion in particular cases
might, as now, be solved by the arbitrament
of the ballot-box, if such a procedure were
found necessary.

But, after all, these are matters of detail
on which the subscribers are likely to hold
different opinions; the general principles, on
the contrary, are so unquestioned and so un-
questionable that we most earnestly plead for
increased assistance on the part of the gar-
dening community.

A report of the proceedings will be found
on another page.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — On

.September 9 last we published several photo-
graphic views obtained in the Royal Botanic
Gardens, Edinburgh, together with a descriptive
article by Mr. R. L. Harrow, curator, in which
he referred to some of the more interesting fea-
tures in that well-known botanical establish-
ment. Our Supplementary Illustration to the

present issue comprises two further views, and
of these the lower one is specially noteworthy,
as it shows a system in use at Edinburgh for
bringing the atmosphere about the alpine plants
on the Rockery into a more suitable condition
for producing growth than would otherwise be
the case during dry weather in summer. This is
done by means of the jets of water shown in the
picture, which are thrown so high into the air
that the spray in descending is scarcely
discernible, but which has the effect of keeping
the atmosphere in a humid condition and of de-
positing moisture on the plants. The Rock Gar-
den at Edinburgh is a famous one, and it is re-
markable for some of the best specimens extant
of certain species of plants ; but during the past
few years a needed improvement has been
brought about by partially reconstructing the
rockwork, and by the placing of larger and more
irregular stones, at the same time taking away
ihe small pockets so long in use. The view at
the top of the page shows some of the shrub-
beries, faced with a border of herbaceous
flowering plants. Trees, including certain Coni-
fers, succeed well at Edinburgh up to a certain
age, but afterwards nothing will keep them in
good condition. Especially is this true of coni-
ferous and other evergreen species. For the
photographs we acknowledge our indebtedness
to the courtesy of Professor B.\yley Balfour,
director of these gardens.

The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund. —

We may remind the supporters and friends of this
excellent charity that the annual meeting and
the election of pensioners will take place at Simp-
son's, Strand, W.C., on Friday, February 9, at
3 p.m. The annual festival dinner has been
fixed for Thursday, IMay 10 next, and will be held
at the Hotel Cecil, Strand, W.C, under the
presidency of J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Treasurer
of the Royal Horticultural Society. We hope
that Mr. Fowler will be well supported on that
occasion, and that the event will be attended with
success, as the holding of this dinner is one of the
primary sources of revenue to a fund that exists
for the relief of necessitous orphans whose fatb""""
belonged to our own profession.

The Journal of the Kew Guild. — The
Kew Guild is a private society having no official
connection with the garden. Its aim is to bind
together in social co-operation those who have in
former years been associated in the Royal gardens,
and those who are still employed within its boun-
daries. Old " Kewites " are dispersed throughout
the world, and but for the institution of the Guild
they would have few or no means of intercom-
munication. As in former years one of the most
interesting features of the present publication con-
sists of extracts from the letters from the officials
connected with various Colonial and other gar-
dens. In a letter from Rhodesia complaint is
made of tourist visitors to the Victoria Falls who
are already busy in uprooting ferns and other
plants. The writer says he is very rude to them
when they are caught in the act, but we fear that
hardened sinners of this description need some
stronger measures to secure their conversion. Mr.
T. W. Brown tells us of Mr. Runberg's Rose
and Carnation houses near Chicago, where over
1.000,000 feet of space is devoted to the growth of
tlie plants just named, and this is only one among
" thousands." To get some idea of the magnitude
of the cut flower trade one has only to walk through
the stores of the wholesale florists at Chicago
whence immense quantities of flowers are daily
despatched to all parts of the States. To enable
the Committee to supply the Journal to friends
and others interested in its contents a few extra
copies have been printed. These will be supplied
at IS. per copy, postage 2d. extra, on application
to Mr. W. N. Winn, Secretary, Royal Gardens,
Kew.

January 27, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

57

Royal Botanic Society. — The recent gift
of /i.ooo from a Fellow of the Society, in aid of its
funds, has been followed by donations of two/ioo
debentures from Lord Lister, one of /'loo from
Mrs. Alfred Scorer, and ;f2oo from Mr. C.

BrINSLEV M.4RLAY.

Honour for a Gardener. — We have learnt
with pleasure, says Indian Planting and Gardening,
" that, on the occasion of the royal visit to Agra,
H.R.H. the Prince of Wales presented Mr.
A. E. P. Griessen. Superintendent of the Taj and
other Government Gardens, with a Victoria Medal
of Honour. We congratulate Mr. Griessen on
the honour conferred upon him. It is a fitting
recognition of the excellent work he has done at
Agra, but especially during the visit of the royal
party to the famous Taj." What this medal may
be we can only conjecture. It can hardly be the
V.M.H.

The Garden Album and Review. — Once
more we have to greet a newcomer in
the ranks of garden-literature. The new publi-
cation is edited by Mr. John Weathers, and is
to be published monthly at 7d. Nothing in this
country has been issued like this journal
since the cessation of T/ie Florist and Pomologisl.
Four coloured plates are to be given in each
number, and the text is intended to deal with
gardening in all its branches. The first plate is
devoted to the illustration of some hybrid Irises
raised between species of the Oncocyclus and of
the Regelia types. The hybrids, unlike the
members of the Oncocyclus section, prove easy
to cultivate and flower readily. The second
plate shows Impatiens Oliver! alluded to in our
columns September 5, 1903, p. 178. Rose
Frau Karl Druschki finds a place as the best
double white H.P. in cultivation. Diervilla (or
Weigela) Eva Rathke also figured is one of
the darkest coloured forms of D. florida. In
addition to notices on newly introduced plants,
the •' Album " contains many useful cultural
suggestfons. We wish our new contemporary a
successful career.

A Gardeners Two Sons Elected to
Parliament in One Week. — It may be of
interest to our readers to know that Alderman J.
H. Bethell, J. p., land agent and auctioneer,
who has been returned to Parliament with such a
large majority of votes in the Romford division
of Essex, and Mr. T. R. Bethell, barrister, the
newly-elected member for the Maldon division of
the same county, are sons of Mr. G. Bethell, of
South Woodford, who was some years ago gar-
dener to Sir Greville Smvthe, Bart., Ashton
Court, near Bristol. Another son is Mr. Geo. H.
Bethell, proprietor of the Hayes Nurseries,
Hayes, Middlesex, who formerly was manager of
Mr. George Whiteley's Nurseries, Hillingdon,
near Uxbridge. This is probably the first occasion
on which a gardener's two sons have been returned
to Parliament in so short a time, or even at all.

Nos ARBRES. — Under this title M. Correvon
proposes to publish a book on trees, intended to
interest the general reader and cause him to love
trees and their associations. Intending subscribers
should communicate with M. Correvon, Chene-
Bourg, Geneva.

Cinchona Barks. — Mr. David Howard, in
a paper read before the Pharmaceutical Society
recently, described the efforts made to obtain
plants and seeds of the valuable Cinchonas by the
Indian and Dutch Governments, referring to the
admirable work of Sir Clements Markham. Mr.
Howard described the cultivation in India and
Java, and specially pointed out the extraordinary
effect of the careful selection of plants for pro-
pagation, which had raised the quinine contained
in the best Ledgeriana bark to lo per cent, from an
average from good wild bark of 3 to 4 per cent.
In collecting the bark the old practice was to
cut down the trees, but nowadays strips of bark

are cut off, and in due season the bark is
renewed. The author described the process of
renewing which is largely adopted in British
India and Ceylon, and pointed out the very
curious alteration, not only in the amount of
alkaloid, but in the proportion of quinine to the
other alkaloids in this renewed bark, and con-
trasted that with the accumulation of alkaloids in
the root bark, especially of unhealthy trees.

One &. All Gardening. — Mr. Edward
Greening again sends forth his little book on
One & All Gardening in connection with the Agri-
cultural and Horticultural .Association, Long Acre.
The editor and his staff endeavour to make it use-
ful as well as interesting, and have succeeded in
putting together a good collection of practical
articles by trustworthy authorities. There are
plenty of illustrations, ornamental and instructive,
and the • ' Novel Facts about Fertilizers ' ' is likely
to prove especially attractive, as Mr. James Scott
points a useful moral with some striking pictures.
' The Garden of Honour," by the Editor, treats
of town gardening and its possibilities.

The Canadian Horticulturist. — This use-
ful publication commences its twenty-ninth volume
this year under the editorship of Mr. H. B.
Cowan. The chief articles in the January issue
deal with Co-operation by Fruit-growers, by Prof.
Reynolds ; Winter Work for the Amateur Florist,
Summer-bedding, and Vegetables. The whole is
nicely printed and got up, and brightened by
numerous illustrations, so as to form a great
improvement on its predecessors.

A New Market for Cider. .According to
the Journal of the Board of Agriculture there is a
continually increasing demand for English cider.
Australia, South America and South Africa are
already good customers, and recently a ready
market has been found for cider in Holland.
Dutch Apples have not been found suitable for
cider-making, and the Dutch Department of
Agriculture were last year instrumental in arrang-
ing an exhibition of English cider, to be held in
Amsterdam. Cider is considered by the Dutch
as a wine, and they would pay a remunerative
price for the best qualities ; those retaining the
aroma and flavour of the fruit with some degree of
sweetness being preferred to less pure and to acid
or bitter varieties of the beverage. Perry was
equally appreciated, and English growers and
manufacturers of this and of cider are recom-
mended to develop the trade with Holland as
soon as possible before Dutch orchards and
factories are capable of competing with them.

New Insect Pest of the Douglas Fir. —
Dr. Stewart MacDougall contributes to the
Journal of the Board of Agriculture an account of a
new insect pest of Pseudotsuga Douglasi. Mr.
John Crozier, of Aberdeen, had sent some affected
seeds and insects for examination, stating that the
pest was at first of but trifling importance, but
soon increased to a serious extent. The insect
proved to be Megastigmus spermotrophus, and
was hitherto not represented in the Natural History
Museum. The eggs are laid in the young cones of
the Douglas Fir, which showed no external mark
of the presence of the larva. Each seed contains
one larva, nourished on the reserves therein stored
up. It is supposed that the species was introduced
to Britain in seed from the native home of the tree
in Western North America. The insects are so
small and the cones often so numerous that sweep-
ing and beating the trees is suggested as one means
of reducing the numbers of adult Megastigmus. Dr.
MacDougall further recommends that the cones
should be gathered when ripe, in late October,
and the seed extracted and fumigated, thus : —
"Place the material to be treated in an air-tight
receptacle. Pour bisulphide of carbon in a shallow
dish and lay this on the top of the material. Close
the receptacle. The bisulphide of carbon vaporises,
and as its fumes are heavier than the air they sink

down through the material. The receptacle should
be kept closed for 48 hours. One ounce of bi-
sulphide of carbon will do for 100 lbs. of seed, or
I ounce for every 50 cubic feet of air space. The
treatment should bs administered in not too cold a
temperature. Bisulphide of carbon fumes being
poisonous should not be inhaled by the operator,
nor should a light of any kind be brought near."
The operation does not hinder the germinative
properties of uninfested seed and is fatal to the
larva.

Do Plants Think? — This is the question
raised by Mr. Argyll Saxby in a pamphlet con-
cerning the neurology and psychology of plants. Its
solution depends, of course, upon the meaning
attached to the words " think " and " thought " ;
whether they may be applied to evidences of ner-
vous sensitiveness or to powers of reasoning un-
affected by the environment of the moment. Mr.
Saxby apparently attributes both sense and sensi-
bility to plants, as he concludes that " all proto-
plasmic nature has the possibilities of sensibility
and reason, whilst in .some of these which we call
the lowerforms of life these quaUtiesare abundantly
evident. Robbed of the soul all sensibility is re-
duced to chemical reactions, and since both animal
and vegetable forms are subject to similar re-
actions, the denial of sensibility as being possible
in either case is manifestly absurd-. It is merely a
matter of development to make the lower equal to
the highest." The author puts forward other
theories and as he expects ridicule to attend
his idea of spiritual thought permeating and
controlling all nature, and therefore shared
by all atoms of that nature, we will not further
enlarge upon it here. We have still to meet the
difficulty of how to recognise the boundaries that
divide elaborate reasoning and the highest human
faculties from the "chemical reactions" causing
such phenomena as (say) heliotropism, or the
movements of Mimosa or Drosera leaves. Mr.
Saxby's little pamphlet can be procured from the
" Guardian " Office, Pool Street, Bodmin.

Doctor Udo Dammer, Curator of the Botani-
cal Museum in Berlin, has been appointed a pro-
fessor. Dr. Dammer studied practical gardening
at Potsdam, and was afterwards employed in the
Botanic Garden in St. Petersburg. He has
worked in the Botanical Museum of Berlin since
the year 1889. Dr. Dammer is well known as the
author of various books, notably Palmcnzucht und
Palmenfflcge (the Culture and Care of Palms). He
was the translator of Dr. Masters' Vegetable
Teratology into German, and is an occasional
contributor to these columns.

Illustrations of Choice Vegetables. — ■

Mr. Ernest Benary, Seedsman, Erfurt, has issued
Part II. of Vegetables Photographed from Nature,
concerning the first part of which a note was pub-
lished in our issue for March iS, 1905. The
second part contains eight loose plates upon thick
art paper, each measuring 20 by 18 inches, and
representing selected varieties of the follow-
ing vegetables: — Carrots (two plates). Summer
Radishes, Cabbage Lettuces, Cabbages, Lettuces
for forcing. Radishes, Kohl Rabi, and Corn Salads.
The 16 varieties of Carrots represent all types
from the short, thick rooted to that in which the
roots are very much longer and of tapering shape
throughout. One of the short-rooted varieties
named Paris Market appears almost similar to a
Turnip, so short is the swollen root. The varieties
of Radish recommended for forcing, which are
given a plate to themselves, appear excellent for
the purpose, and the illustrations are capital. We
do not think the Summer Radishes are represented
in such good condition. They are described as of
natural size, but the roots are shown to be so large
that nine out of ten persons would fail to identify
them as Radishes at all. In any case, no cultivator
would allow them to grow to such a size if they

58

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

were intended for consumption. The Lettuces
and Kohl Rabi make three very good plates, and
on the remaining plate attention is drawn to seven
varieties of Corn Salad (Valeriana), an excellent
salad that is used freely on the Continent, but very
little in this country. We may add that this is an
English edition of the work, and copies may be
had for six shillings each. One part is to be issued
every year.

The Journal of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. — The December part is so volu-
minous that it will be impracticable to review its
contents in any reasonable time. We must confine
ourselves to saying that it is as usual a most valu-
able publication, from which we may, in future,
make extracts. At present it is barely possible
even to enumerate its contents, so numerous and
substantial are they. The Secretary, in laying
down his editorial functions, points out that on his
accession to office in iSSS there were only 773 sub-
scribing Fellows, of whom 221 immediately re-
signed, so that he was confronted with a debt of
/i,i52; an annual expenditure of ^3,500, a sub-
scription income little, if at all, more than ;£'i,5oo
a year, and the publication of the Society's journal
was suspended. The debt was paid off in 1S8S and
1889, and there has since been an annual average
increase in the Society's income of ^'753. In
1888 the Society was homeless and houseless.
It now has a magnificient hall of its own, thanks
to Baron Schroder and others, with convenient
and suitable offices. The number of Fellows is
now nearly 10,000. The gardens no longer con-
sist of about 13 acres in the smoke-begrimed
district of Chiswick, but exceed, thanks to Sir
Thomas Hanbury, 60 acres in the beautiful open
country and clear air and sky of Wisley, near
Weybridge. In 1889 the Journal was recommenced
and numbered 404 pages. It has now more than
1,200 pages, with 234 illustrations and six coloured
plates. In 18S8 there was a debt of £'1,152;
there is now a reserve fund of £16,536. Mr.
WiLKs may well cry. Nunc dmittis. There may have
been delay, but there has been no " break down "
in the publication of the Journal. The only serious
complaint we have heard concerning it is that it is
too good, or at least too voluminous. The new
editor, Mr. G. S. Saunders, will, no doubt, use
his pruning knife, and eliminate matters which
are not strictly horticultural. The contents of the
present part comprise the papers read before the
Society, and even those which have formed the
subjects of discussion at the Horticultural Club
and the Chelmsford Gardeners' Association. The
notes and abstracts constitute a valuable feature,
occupying some 200 pages. A little more eclecti-
cism in this department would be advantageous.
Two indexes complete what is truly a magnum opiis.
M. Ernest Fierens. — We regret to hear of
the death, from pneumonia, of M. Ernest
Fierens, of Ghent. M. Fierens was well known
as a Chrysanthemum grower, and also for his ser-
vices in connection with the Societe Royale
d'Agriculture et de Botanique, of which he was
the courteous and most efficient Secretary. By
those who are in the habit of visiting the Ghent
Quinquennial Exhibitions he will be greatly missed.
It is but a short time since we had to record the
death of M. de Meulenare, and now the Society
is again plunged in sorrow. In communicating
the intelligence our correspondent appropriately
made the quotation, " Uno avulso, non deficit
alter." Such is the vitality of the old Society and
its managers that we doubt not this optimism will
be justified.

Ether-Forced Rhubarb. — Mr. W. Stuart,
of the Vermont Experiment Station, has commu-
nicated to the Department of Agriculture (U.S.A.)
the results of his experiments in forcing Rhubarb
by the aid of ether fumes. In his trials the roots
to be treated were dug in autumn and allowed to
freeze, in C>ecember they were gradually thawed

in a cool cellar, and then part of the roots were
subjected to ether fumes and part left untreated
for comparison. The roots were etherised for 48
hours in an air-tight box, using 10 cubic centi-
metres of ether per cubic foot of space. Three
other sets of roots were etherised at later dates
and with \'arying proportions of ether. The earli-
est of the treatments proved the most successful
as regards the total yield. The plants etherised
were of earlier and more vigorous growth, and
yielded increased weight of product when com-
pared with the specimens left untreated.

An Association "of Horticultural In-
structors.— .\ movement initiated by Mr. A.
E. Brooke-Hunt, Inspector under the Board of
Agriculture and Fisheries, has resulted in the
various lecturers on Horticulture in the United
Kingdom forming themselves into an association.
The members propose to have periodical meetings,
when papers will be read and discussions con-
ducted on the different phases of educational work
in gardening. Mr. A. E. Brooke-Hunt was
elected chairman at a recent meeting, and Mr.
Walter P. Wright, of Postling, Hythe, Kent,
Hon. Secretary and Treasurer.

Linnean Society. — General meeting, Janu-
ary 18, 1906, Prof. W. A. Herdman, F.R.S., Presi-
dent, in the chair. Mr. William Carruthers,
F.R.S., a past-President of the Society, on the
part of the subscribers, presented a portrait of
Prof. S. H. Vines, D.Sc, F.R.S. , President
from 1900 to 1904, painted by the Hon. John
Collier, and the President in the chair ac-
cepted the gift on behalf of the Society. Mr.
T. Ernest Waltham e.xhibited a series of
coloured transparencies from flowers in natural
colours, partly by the three-colour process, parti}'
by hand. They were shown on frames specially
devised, the light being reflected from beneath,
and a frame with stereoscope slid along above the
series. One admirable lantern-slide was displayed
upon the screen, to show the success of the pro-
cess. Mr. A. O. Walker and Dr. A. B. Rendle
contributed some remarks. The first paper was
by Mr. A. W.Allen, on "The Life-history of
Margaritifera Panasesse, ' ' which was communicated
and read by the Rev. T. R. F. Stebbing, Sec L.S.
Mr. A. D. Cotton, F.L.S., then gave the main
features of his paper " On some Endophytic
Algae," illustrating his exposition by drawings on
the blackboard. .\ paper by Dr. A. Broom,
communicated by Prof. A. Dendy, F.L.S.,
was read in title, " On the Organ of Jacobson
in Sphenodon," and was illustrated by coloured
drawings. A meeting will be held on Thurs-
day, February i, at 8 p.m. when Mr. J.
Stanley Gardiner, M.A., Fellow and Tutor of
Gonville and Cains College, Cambridge, will give
an account of the Percy Sladen Trust Expedition
to the Indian Ocean, of which he was leader, in
H.M.S. "Sealark."

British Botanists in Pretoria. — The
October issue of the Transvaal Agricultural Journal
contains a description of the visit paid by some of
the botanists attached to the British Association
to the " Wonderboom," Ficus sp. This is a won-
derful tree, hemispherical and covered with ever-
green leaves and small figs. Its diameter is
162^ feet and its height about 67 feet. " Some of
the branches from the centre spread out laterally
in a radial direction and gradually droop towards
the ground. At a distance of about 30 feet they
come in contact with it and send out roots from
which new groups of stems arise. From these
other branches may be given off, still in the same
radial direction, and these, coming in contact with
the ground, may become rooted in their turn and
send up a third group of stems. . . The

district round the Wonderboom was especially
interesting to the botanists present as being the
old hunting ground of Charles Zeyher, who ob-
tained many of his type specimens hereabout 1842."

Forestry in New South Wales. — In a

lecture on Forestry given last autumn by Mr.
J. H. Maiden, Director of the Sydney Botanic
Gardens, we find many valuable hints concerning
Forestry and timber. Mr. Maiden lays special
stress on the necessity for the forester being also a
good botanist and having a knowledge of the
life-history of his trees ; their habits, bark, timber,-
leaves, flowers, and fruits. The Australian student
has not the book-lore of centuries to aid him, but
has principally to deal with trees of the difficult
and still partly unknown genus Eucalyptus, of
which new species are yearly discovered. Only
by careful and systematic examination of the trees
and of the timber imported can the forester attain
to a knowledge of the special properties and
possibilities of the several species, and learn to
recognise them apart.

South Eastern Agricultural College,
Wye. — We are informed that a meeting of the
Govenors of this College was held at the West-
minster Palace Hotel, on January 22, Lord
AsHDOWN, chairman, presiding. The Principal,
Mr. M. J. R, DuNSTAN, reported 97 students to
be in residence for the Spring Term ; the appoint-
ment of Mr. Plymen, the soil analyst, to the
Professorship of Agricultural Chemistry at Nagpor ;
and details connected with the new buildings, the
electric light installation, and water supply. Mr.
E. Salmon has been appointed Mycologist, and
Mr. A. Amos Assistant Chemist. The estab-
lishment of a Horticultural side to the College is
under consideration.

The Surveyors' Institution. — The next
ordinary general meeting will be held in the
Lecture Hall of the Institution on Monday,
January 29, 1906, at 8 p.m., when a paper by Mr.
F.Marshall, K. C. (Associate), entitled "The
Valuation of Machinery for the Purposes of
Rating," will be read. The annual dinner of the
Institution will be held at the Whitehall Rooms,
Hotel Metropole, on Wednesday, February 21,
1906, at seven o'clock precisely.

The Dinner to Mr. W. Marshall. — It
has been decided that the dinner already mentioned
shall take place on March 6, at 6 p.m., at
the Hotel Windsor, Westminster. Tickets for the
dinner will be 6s. (exclusive of wine). Although
the dinner is promoted by the Floral Committee,
past and present members of all the Royal Horti-
cultural Society Committees and other horticul-
tural friends of Mr. Marshall are cordially invited.
Application may be made to Mr. George Gordon,
Endsleigh, Priory Park, Kew, or to members of
the sub-committee mentioned incur previous note.

Rainfall in 1905.— Our correspondent, Mr.
Ernest Willoughby, sends us the following re-
markable details of the rainfall at Glencarron,
Ross-shire. Glencarron is situated inland with
high hills surrounding it. The total number of
inches recorded was 95'i3, the wettest month
being January with 13 39 inches. Rain fell on
280 days, October only escaping with one dry
day. Mr. W. H. Jenkins, Wythenshawe Gardens,
Northenden, Cheshire, sends the record of the
past year's rainfall in those gardens as 2761
inches, which is 2 inches below the average. No
measurable rain was registered for a period of 14
days during May, thus causing a drought in the
locality. The highest shade temperature was 89"
on July 8, the lowest mean temperature 12° on
November 19.

Publications Received.— r/js Collector's Maga-
zine, January 13. — ProceeJiiigs of the Agri-Horticul-
tural Society 0/ Madras; July to December 1905. —
Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture, Jamaicai
December, 1905. Edited by William Fawcett, Director
of Public Gardens and Plantations. The contents re-
late chiefly to Rubber and Cocoa. — The Queensland
Agricultural Journal, December, 1905. This contains
the usual notes on agricultural and horticultural sub-
jects, and is editetl by Mr. .\. J. Boyd. — New York
Agricultural Experiment Station : Bulletin No. J69. — ■
Winter Injury to Fruit Trees. By H. J. Eustace.

January 27, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

59

A NEW VARIETY OF ORANGE.

The illustration at fig. 29 shows the prett\- little
variety of Citrus japonica, shown recently by
Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea, It is
e'. idently a close ally of the Kum Quat, a variety
much esteemed for decorative purposes as also for
its candied fruits. For greenhouse decoration
these plants are very desirable, as they flower and
fruit while still in small-size pots, whilst, as we have
said, they are valuablefor other purposes. The pre-
sent variety is remarkable both for its narrow
foliage and its elliptical fruits. It will be remem-
bered that a note was printed on p. 46 of the last
issue relating that the Fruit Committee of the
Royal Horticultural Society had awarded a First
Class Certificate to this variety on the ground that
the fruits are of excellent quality for dessert. It
will be seen, therefore, that this orange is a use-
ful aci|nisition.

sion without election, in accordance with
Rule III., 13.

'• Thus at the close of the year, there were 200
persons receiving annuities for life, and, feeling
assured of continued and, as they hope, in-
creased support, the committee recommend the
election this day of eighteen persons from the
approved list of forty-four candidates. This will
make a total of 218 annuitants on the funds — ■
the largest number at any time in the history
of the charity.

" Notwithstanding this, unfortunately there
will be twenty-si.x unsuccesful applicants, w-ho
must an.xiously await a further election a year
hence before receiving the permanent aid they
so much need. The committee wish the annual
income enabled them to assist a larger number,
but in adding four additional beneficiaries they
feel they have done all that the state of the
I'unds warranted. The special funds at the
disposal of the committee are of the greatest
benefit. The income from the 'Victorian Era
Fund' has been applied in affording assistance

■X'r . -'7

Fig. 2g. — citrus japonic.v with elliptic frl'it.

GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVO-
LENT INSTITUTION.

Annual Meeting.
January 18. — The sixty-seventh annual
general meeting of the members and subscribers
of this institution was held on the foregoing
date at Simpson's Restaurant, 101, Strand, Lon-
don. The chair was occupied by Mr. Harry J.
Veitch (treasurer). The secretary read the re-
port and balance sheet for the past year, from
which we give the following extracts: —

" At the beginning of the year there were on
the funds 214 persons — 127 men and 87 widows
— receiving £20 and £16 per annum respec-
tively for life, at an annual cost of £3,792, being
an increase of seven persons as compared with
the previous year. During 1905 eighteen pen-
sioners died, four leaving widows, who, their
cases being found eligible and deserving, were
placed on the funds for the widow's pen.

to the unsuccessful candidates at the last elec-
tion, who were formerly subscribers, £157
having been distributed among them during the
year ; while the income from the ' Good
Samaritan Fund ' has enabled the committee
to make grants of nearly £100, as temporary
help in cases of most urgent distress and need."

The balance sheet showed a total income of
£9,263 18s. 4d., which includes a balance from
last year of £1,048 lOs. 4d. The annual sub-
scriptions amounted to £1,638 I7s., while the
donations at and in consequence of the festival
dinner, including sums raised by means of the
collection cards, totalled £2,225 9s. The mag-
nificent sum of £4,849 18s. was derived from
the interest on the invested funds, truly a
magnificent backbone to the institution. The
expenditure on pensions and gratuities was
£3,741 12s. 6d., and the committee has been
enabled to place on deposit £3,665 IDs.

The Victorian Era Fund had an income from
all sources of £345 Is., out of which amount

£157 has been expended in the form of gratui-
ties.

The receipts to the Good Samaritan Fund
totalled £302 3s., and from this amount necessi-
tous cases had been relieved to the extent of
£85, leaving a balance of £217 3s.

The Victorian Era and Good Samaritan Funds
were both doing excellent work, and as an
example of the usefulness of the latter fund,
the relief of the daughter of a prominent
gardener, a man who, before his decease, was
widely known and respected by many present in
the room, was cited.

The chairman referred to the management of
the Society, and congratulated the subscribers
upon the economical manner in which the funds
of the institution, with a yearly turnover of
nearly £10,000, were managed.

The adoption of the report was carried unani-
mously.

The officers of the institution were all re-
elected, as were also the retiring members of the
committee, with the exception of Mr. M.
Gleeson, who desired to resign. The vacant
place was filled by Mr. Ed. White.

The Successful Candidates.

The scrutineers having handed in their com-
pilations of the votes recorded, the result was
announced as follows; — 1, Juliet Fitt, 3,307
votes ; 2, Elizabeth Williams, 3,244 ; 3, Charles
Rutson, 2,891 ; 4, Stephen Goddard, 2,734 ; 5,
Isabella M. Clarke, 2,730; 6, Mary Kicks,
2,655; 7, George B. Scott, 2,655; 8, William
Egglestone, 2,621 ; 9, Elizabeth Stubbs, 2,612 ;
10, William Wickens, 2,599; 11, Bethiah Ward,
2,543; 12, William Moore, 2,507; 13, James
Stone, 2,444 ; 14, Mary Down, 2,363 ; 15, Richard
Salwav, 2,334; 16, Isaac Clement, 2,243; 17,
Sarah .\. Fenn, 2,236; 18, William Smith,
2,226; 19, Joseph Woods; 20, Thomas Smith.
The two candidates last named were added sub-
sequent to the original election.

The committee recommended Mr. Joseph
Woods, a candidate who has for the past six
years been endeavouring to obtain relief, as an
additional beneficiary. This was carried unani-
mously, and it was further agreed by the sub-
scribers present to add a 20th name to the list.
The fortunate candidate was Mr. Thomas
Smith, who had the next highest number of
votes on the polling sheet. It was announced
that no fewer than 52 voting papers had been
rendered void by the omission of the subscriber's
signature on the voting paper.

The An.nual Friendly Supper
took place at 6 p.m., also at "Simpsons," and
was attended by members of the Committee and
their friends. Mr. Geo. Monro, V.M.H., pre-
sided. In the course of a speech delivered when
proposing the toast of the evening, the Chair-
man said they were very pleased to be back
again at " Simpson's." He related a number
of interesting facts connected with the Institu-
tion and the disbursement of its funds, some
of which were referred to at the afternoon meet-
ing. But, in addition, Mr. Monro had a pleas-
ing piece of news to announce, which came
quite as a surprise. This was a message from
Mr. N. N. Sherwood, who had asked his son,
Mr. Edward Sherwood, to announce to those
present at the dinner that he would be pleased
to give a sum of S.h^ for division amongst the
candidates who had been unsuccessful at the elec-
tion. This intimation was received with much
gratification, and a message of thanks was sent to
ilr. Sherwood. In connection with the election
that day, Mr. Monro drew attention to the cir-
cumstance that there were 52 unsigned voting
papers received, which, therefore, could not
be used. Some voting papers were also received
after the declaration of the poll, and the Com-
mittee being anxious that all subscribers to the
Institution should have a voice in the election
of candidates, could not but regret that more
care is not exercised in respect to this matter.
Mr. Harry J. Veitch, in responding, mentioned
the fact that he had been treasurer for about 20
years, and though he would take no credit to
himself for the amount of good work that had
been accomplished in that period, he could
not but rejoice that, whereas then there was
£21,000 invested, thene is now £42,000. In-
stead of there being 118 pensioners on the
funds, there are now 220 pensioners. In addi-
tion, both those excellent funds, the Victorian
Era Fund and the Samaritan Fund, had been
established. Mr. Veitch coupled with this

GO

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 190C,

response the toast of the country members and
auxiliaries, to which Mr. H. G. Cox, Hon. Sec-
retary of the Reading Branch, responded. Al-
derman Piper proposed the toast of " The Chair-
man," and Mr. Morgan Veitch that of "Ihe
Honorary Officers, etc.," the latter toast being
responded to bv Mr. Owen Thomas.

Mr. George 'J. Ingram, in replying to the
toast of " The Secretary," moved by the Chair-
man, and referring to the institution of the
Victorian Era and Samaritan Funds curing the
15 years he has been in office, said that when
sending the disagreeable intelligence to such can-
didates who had been unsuccessful at the poll, he
had now the satisfaction of being able to tell
them that their cases would be considered by
the Committee, and if the circumstances war-
ranted the Committee in making a special grant,
they would do so. Before there were such
funds, said Mr. Ingram, the communication of
this news was a specially disagreeable duty.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

(Contimied from page 38.)
A STRETCH OF THE TUNG VALLEY.
Szechuan the name given to the largest, most
western, and probably richest province of
China, simply means " Four streams." The
name is derived from the four large rivers,
Kialing, T'o, Min, and Yalung, which flow
through the province from north to south to
join the mighty Yangtsze. These rivers take
their rise in wild, sparsely-inhabited country,
and for some hundreds of miles follow parallel
courses separated by high mountain ridges.
Their valleys are very narrow, very much shut
in, enjoy a peculiar climate, and support a very
curious and interesting flora. The object of
this note is to illustrate, by reference to one
river valley, the peculiar and altogether anoma.
lous state of things which obtains in these river
valleys of Western China.

The river Tung is, rightly speaking, the main
branch of the Min river ; it unites with the
branch which rises north of Sungpan, at Kia-
ting Fu. The stretch with which this note deals
is some distance removed from the point of
union of the two streams. It lies, roughly, in
long. 102°, 32'E, between lat. 29°, 47', and lat.
30° 6'N. The stretch is quite a short one, fol-
lowing the windings of the river for not more
than 3J English miles. The village of Leng-che
(alt. 4,300 feet) marks the southern point, and
the hamlet of Wa-su-kou (4,600 feet), the
northern point of the stretch.

The river between these points flows along
the line where limestone gives way to granite,
and is shut in by steep mountains on either
side. Those on the right bank tower fully
10,000 feet, being spurs of the mighty snow-clad
peaks of the Chino-Tibetan frontier. Shrubs
and remnants of Conifer forests clothe the upper
part of these mountains. The mountains on the
left bank are not so high, and are clad with
long grass, a few herbs, and stunted bushes.
Numerous streams join the river from the right
bank, but scarcely one from the mountains of
the left bank. From Leng-che to Luting-chiao
(10 miles) the road skirts the left bank of the
river, crossing to the • right bank at the latter
village by means of a fine iron suspension
bridge, 107 yards long. From this bridge to
Wa-su-kou, the road is for the most part hewn
out of solid rock, and is one succession of steep
ascents and descents. In many places it pro-
jects over the river, being supported on poles
driven horizontally into holes blasted in the
rocks. This road is seldom more than 4 feet
wide, and i?; not only difficult, but highly dan-
gerous to travel over.

This river-valley between the points men-
tioned above enjoys a much warmer climate
than one would expect from its altitude, and
in this is only a type of most of the river-valleys
in these regions. Captain Gill (" River of

Golden Sand," Vol. ii., p. 135), notes the pres-
ence of green parrots in the valleys of the
Yalung and Kinsha rivers, in much the same
latitude but farther west, and between 7,500 and
9,000 feet altitude. In a footnote on the same
page we read : " Lieut. Garnier notices the
warm, temperature in the valley of the Kinsha
at its confluence with the Yalung. The charac-
teristic plants of Kiang-Hung on the Mekong,
4° south, were found there."

When passing through this portion of the
Tung valley, I was struck with the peculiarity
of its flora, but subsequently I found this pecu-
liarity general to the river valleys of the west.
The majority of the characteristic plants were
the same as those of parts of Yunnan, 7° south.
The flora is excessively poor, essentially xero-
phytic, and warm-temperate or sub-tropical in
character. The herbs have fleshy leaves, bul-
bous, rhizomatous, or variously thickened root-
stocks ; the shrubs are dwarf, spinescent, with
small leaves, or with leaves and stems covered
with woolly hairs. The trees are such as are
found to succeed best m dry regions.

By far the most striking and, possibly, com-
monest, plant is Opuntia Dill»nii. This colonist
is as much at home here as it is in parts of
Texas and Arizona. Miles and miles of the
river banks are covered with this plant, which
forms large bushes 8 to 10 feet high, often one
mass of pale-orange flowers. So much does
the presence of this plant alter the appearance
of the country that on© could easily imagine
it to form fiart of cne of the arid states of
Southern U.S.A. And as if to make the delu-
sion complete, a Mimosa-like Leguminous
plant is associated with the Opuntia exactly
as one finds it in the above States ! In parts of
Yunnan, and more especially the low moun-
tains around Lake Shi-ping, large areas are
covered with this self-same Opuntia to the ex-
clusion of nearly everything else. The fruits
are eaten by the peasants, who thus help to
jiropagate the plant. The extract from the
stems on boiling them is considered a cure for
haemorrhoids.

The characteristic shrubs and sub-rr.rubs of
this dry region are : Buddleia paniculata, Vitex
Negundo, V. incisa, Sophorrx viciifolia (a very
spiny form), Caryopteris Mastacanthus, Caryop-
teris sp., Ceratostigma minus, Bauhinia sp.,
Albizzia Julibrissin, Acalypha sp., Incarvillea
variabilis var. latifolia, Amphicome Emodi,
Indigofera decora, and Buddleia variabilis.
Others much less common are Myrsine africana,
Rosa Webbiana, Ligustrum Prattii, Jas-
minum floridum, Cotoneaster pannosa, C.
Franchetii, Leycesteria formosa, Kolreuteria
bipinnata (shrubby form), Xanthoxylum Bun-
gei (cult.), Xanthoxylum sp., Sophora sp.,
Indigofera spp., and various sub-shrubby
Labiates and Composites. Clematis Clouriana,
two species of Ceropegia, two species of
Ipomaea, and several species of Cynanchum aie
the common climbers.

In point of numbers Lilium leucanthum is
the commonest herb. In the niches of the rocks
and amongst scrub and long grass, it occurs in-
hundreds of thousands. In July and early
August, when this Lily is in flower, the hill-
sides are dotted all over with its large, white,
funnel-shaped flowers, and their fragrance fills
the air. These Lily-flowers are eaten by the
peasants, the perianth being broken up into its
six segments, and the style, ovary, and anthers
are discarded. The segments and stamen-fila-
ments are then boiled, strained, and then dried
in the sun, and preserved. They are eaten fried
with salt and oil. The bulbs of this species
are not eaten, but those of L. tigrinura and L.
sutchuenense are consumed in various parts of
China.

Datura Stramonium and Verbascum Thapsus
are two common roadside weeds. The Chinese

are well aware of the poisonous nature of the
Datura, and '.he Verbascum is undoubtedly
spontaneous. Another characteristic herb is
Chelidoniura Franchetianum. This is really a
very pretty plant, with marbled leaves, and
clear yellow, but very fugacious flowers.

Other common herbs hereabouts are, Barleria
cristata, Platycodon grandiflorura, Oxalis corni-
culata. Taraxacum olficinale, Ophiopogon spica-
tus, Thalictrum dipterocarpum, Hemerocallis
fulva, Lythrum Salicaria, Polygonum spp.,
Pteris sp., Statice Bretschneideri, Sedum spp.,
Lcpidium ruderale, Cheilanthes sp., Malva sp.,
Artemisia spp., Roscoea sp. (flowers pale yel-
low), Asphodelus sp., Zygophyllum sp., Sela-
ginella spp., Bcea sp., and various Compositiae,
Labiateae, and grasses. The bare rocks fully
exposed to the sun are frequently carpeted with
Boea hygrometrica and Selaginella involvens.
Amongst the grass, Lilium Bakerianum and L.
sutchuenense occur sparingly. On bare cliffs
Codonopsis convolvulacea, with its lovely blue
flowers, and, on shady banks, Scolopendrium
Delavayi are occasionally met with.

When in flower the herbs and shrubs of this
dry region make a fine display by reason of
their intense colours. Purple, blue, and red
are the predominating hues, yellow and white
being much less in evidence.

Trees are very scarce, being chiefly found
around habitations, but although the num-
ber of individual trees is not great, the
variety is considerable. The following are the
chief: Erythrina indica. Thuya (Biota) orien-
talis, Trachycarpus excelsa, Salix babylonica,
Populus euphratica, Alnus nepalensis, Sapindus
Mukorossi, Gleditschia sinensis, Sterculia
platanifolia, Pistacia Weinmanniifolia, P. chin-
ensis, Cupressus funebris, Aleurites cordata,
Pterocarya stenoptera, Diospyros Lotus, D.
Kaki, Juglans regia, and Ailantus glandulosa.
This latter tree is always spinescent in the dry
valleys of the west. (This is probably the same
as A. Vilmoriniana, see Cjrdeners' Chronicle,
Vol. xxxviii. (1905), p. 276.)

Phyllostachys mitis is the common Bamboo
around dwellings. The Walnut is the com-
monest fruit-tree, though Pears, Apples,
Peaches, and Apricots are commonly grown.
Rice is the common crop in the bottom-lands ;
Maize on the mountain sides up to 7,500 feet ;
Millet and Sorghum are the other cereals. The
nature of the country does not lend itself to
agriculture, and the population is very sparse.
E. H. Wilson.

[To he continued.)

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

The Horticultural Note Book. By J. C.

Newsham, etc. (Crosby, Lockwood and Son.)
The sub-title of this book well indicates the
nature of its contents as " a manual of practical
rules, data, and tables for the use of Students,
Gardeners, Nurserymen, and others interested
in Flower, Fruit, and Vegetable Culture, or in
the laying out and management of gardens."
So far as we remember, we have had nothing
so complete of its kind as this little manual.
It reminds us of Professor Bailey's Horticul-
turists'' Rule Book, and in so saying we are pay-
ing a compliment to the author of the present
compilation. The chapters on weights and
measures are, of course, indispensable, although
they bring prominently into notice the utterly
unsystematic and confusing nature of our pre-
sent practice. Fortunately, the compiler has
added the necessary information relating to the
metric system, and the next generation will
probably wonder how their fathers could have
tolerated for so long such a medley of inconse-
quent details as now encumber our table-books.
Garden-formation, horticultural structures,

Januakv 1:7, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Ul

hedges, fences, gates, soils, manures, the pro-
pagation of plants, hints on the culture of
flowers, fruits, trees, shrubs, and vegetables all
find a place in this little book, together with
notes on insecticides and fungicides, and the
weather as it affects gardeners. In this latter
connection we may say that w-e find no mention
of the newly-introduced " Pagoscope," which
we have found useful. It is impossible to
deal critically with such a mass of facts as
are here got together ; but we may record our
impression that the note-book will be found
most useful for consultation, and that gardeners
will be amply repaid for the outlay they may in-
cur in purchasing it. The price may seem at
first sight high (7s. 6d.), but its possession will
obviate the necessity for purchasing manv
books. In the geometrical definitions we are
told "that an obti:se ano-lo is gre.nter than a

were transplanted to the beds at the end of
May. The Curator, Mr. W. Watson, who is
one of the keenest of plantsmen, informs us
that they grew well, branched very freely, and
flow'ered profusely until autumn. So much has
been written in these columns as to the merits
of Nicotiana Sandcrae, and its varied colours
and suitability for bedding, that we need say
but little at this time. Our readers, however,
will agree that the illustration at Fig. 30,
which has been prepared from a photograph
taken by Mr. Wallis, shows unmistakably that
the effect of such a bed as that portrayed must
be brilliant and graceful. One of the most
gorgeous sights we remember to have seen was
a collection of these Nicotianas in the nurseries
of Messrs. Sander & Sons, at Bruges, a year or
two ago, where they filled house after house
with sheets of rich colours.

fatal spot, "a few miles away," it would prob-
ably, in accordance with precedent, arrive too
late. I have not asked the price of any of this
stranded coal, but I am not at all surprised to
learn that the full market value is demanded.
C. R. Fielder. [We have received several other
letters to the same effect, and one of the original
letters from a Colliery Company. — Ec]

Apple French Crab. — I am sending you some
Apples of the variety French Crab, which are
still attached to the wood. The branch has been
cut from the tree to-day, and there are many
such branches. They have been subjected to
from 10° to 18° of frost many times over, and
this morning there was 12° of frost. Wind seems
to have no effect on these fruits, as there have
been many heavy gales since September last.
Most of the fruits are quite sound, while som«
show frostbites. The crop of 1904 was not
gathered until December, and the fruits were
U'^r;d in June, 190f), when they were still fresh

Fig. 30. — BED OF NICOTI-VXA SANDER/E, AS IT FLOWERED LAST SEASON IN THE ROYAL GARDENS,

(From a photograph by Mr. Wallis.)

right angle," which makes us think that the de-
finition of a right angle should first have been
given. As it is, we find no definition of a right
angle at all ! The results of the voting on Po-
tatos and Apples throughout every county in
the British Islands given in our columns might
well have been inserted, but where so much is
given it is ungracious to ask for more. We may
add that, so far as we have seen, the proofs
have been carefully read, and misprints are sur-
prisingly few. The names of plants on p. 299
constitute a rare exception. There are numer-
ous illustrations and a good index.

NICOTIANA SANDER.E AT KEW.

Among the best flowering plants in the open
garden at Kew last season were Messrs. Sander
cV: Sons' hybrid Nicotianas. The plants were
raised from seeds sown in cool frames, and
afterwards cultivated in pots, from which they

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ly his correspondettts.)

Anthracite Coal. — Mr. A. Holland Hibbert,
p. 46, enquires whether other readers of the
Gardeners' Chronicle have been asked to buy
trucks of anthracite which had " broken down a
few miles from their station." I have been
asked to do so manj' times during the past two
years, and I have long been expecting some one
to call the attention of your readers to the phe-
nomenal bad luck which appears to attend the
efforts of certain vendors of anthracite coal. At
first I was offered coal which had " arrived too
late for the vendor's customers," and after this
had gone on for some time, trucks began to
break down a few miles awaj' from our .station
with great regularity. I fear I shall never have
the courage to give an order to such an unfor-
tunate firm, as, should the truck by a great
stroke of fortune avoid a breakdown at that

and good. Predk. Bedford, Straff an House
del!, Co. Kildarc. Jan. ^li. [The fruits

Gar-
[The fruits are
exactly as described by our correspondent.
Those which are perfectly sound, however, have
commenced to become a little " mealv," or drv
— Ed.]

Canker and Frost-Resisting Apples.^

Two questions of great importance to fruit growers
were raised in the Gardeners' Chronicle of Januar>' 6.
One is the canker-resisting constitution of certain
varieties of Apples, alluded to by Mr. A. B.
Wadds ; and the other the frost-resisting capa-
bilities of some kinds of the same fruit, mentioned
by Mr. R. L. Castle. If readers would compare
notes in your columns as to the varieties of
the Apple most and least liable to canker and
to damage by frost respectively, much valu-
able information might be obtained. In my
own experience I have found Iving of the Pippins,
Ribston Pippin, and Cellini Pippin more liable to
canker than any other of over 30 varieties that I
grow in my plantations and private orchard.
Potts's Seedling also has been attacked somewhat

62

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Qanuaey 27, 1906.

badly, though not as extensively as the varieties
named above. My experience with certain of the
varieties named by Mr. Wadds as comparatively
free from canker coincides with his, while others
in his list I do not grow. Irish Peach, Beauty of
Bath, Lady Sudeley, Worcester Pearmain, and
Lord Grosvenorhavesuffered but littlefrom canker,
and Cox's Orange Pippin less than many varieties.
I have only a few trees of The Queen ; but they
are fairly healthy. Bismarck does not thrive on
mv light land ; but I have not noticed much
canker in the trees. My trees were planted six
years ago, and they had not suffered much from
canker until after the wet season of 1903. The
soil in my oldest plantation is of a lightish loam
over the Tunbridge Wells sand, which dries very
quickly after rain. I thought when I planted the
trees that canker would not be troublesome on
such land ; but the texture of the soil is extremely
fine, and it holds water like a sponge wliile the
weather remains rainy. In relation to the frost-
resisting question, I have not made any observa-
tions. An East Sussex Grower.

The Willow for Cricket Bats. — The
best Willow (or the purpose is Salix Russelliana,
and it also commands the best price, from 5s. to
I2S. 6d. per cubic foot. I saw a lot sold last
season at los. 6d. per cubic foot. A good set
costs from is. to is. 6d., and, if planted in suitable
position and does well, is worth from £5 to £6
ill 15 years. I planted 500 sets here last season
that were cut from the tops of some trees; the
owner of same bought the piece of ground 16
years ago, paid /50 for it, planted it with the
above variety of Willow, and sold them last
season as they stood for ;^2,ooo, Jiw. Barker,
Pishiohury, Sawbridgeivorth , Herts.

soci£:i:ie:s.

BOYAL HORTICULTURAL.

January 23. — The weather on Tuesday last was
so cold, and m London, at least, so foggy, that it
was surprising that exhibitors had the temerity to
make such a good display of Orchids and other
plants at the Royal Horticultural Society's meet-
ing in the Hall in Vincent Square, Westminster.

As will be seen from the report printed below,
the show of Orchids was unusually good, though
the awards made to novelties — three Awards of
Merit — were fewer and less important than usual.
It has also to be remarked that no exhibit was
made in the special competition for Oncidiums
which had I oen arranged for that day.

The FLfi.. \L Committee recommended one
First Class Certificate to Buddleia asiatica, an
old species that is not often seen in gardens. No
other award was recommended to an individual
plant.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee made
no awards other than a Medal and two cultural
commendations.

At the afternoon meeting Mr. Martin H. F.
Sutton read a paper on " The Formation and Care
of Lawns and Golf Greens." A number of new
Fellows were elected.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq., chairman, and
C. T. Druery, H. B. May, Geo. Nicholson, Chas.
Blick, Chas. Jeffries, Chas. Dixon. H. J. Jones,
Chas. E. Pearson, Chas. E. Shea, W. P. Thomson,
]. F. McLeod, J. Green, H. J. Cutbush, G. Reuthe,
E. T. Cook, R. W. Wallace, E. H. Jenkins, G. W.
Barr, George Paul, and R. Hooper Pearson.

Freesia Chapmanni is a name given to varieties
of Freesia raised from a cross between F. refracta
alba and F. aurea, by F. Herbert Chapman,
Esq., Guldeford Lodge, Rye. The inflorescences as
shown were much branched, and the flowers,
though smaller in size than those of F. refracta
alba, were prettily stained on the lower segments
with bright orange colour.

Mr. J. Hudson, The Gardens, Gunnersbury
House Gardens, Acton, exhibited a plant of
Haemanthus magnificus in flower.

Messrs. H. Cannell & So.ns, Swanley, Kent,
staged a collection of Chinese Primulas. The
exhibit, which comprised a very large number of
plants, was arranged in bitches of various colours,
including purple, pink, salmon, red, white, &c.
The plants were of a healthy, sturdy type, the
trusses of flowers being strong, and the "pips "
exceedingly fine ; especially commendable were
the white and the red varieties. A few plants of

a white " stellata " strain named Mrs. R. W.
Cannell found a place in the group. Messrs.
Cannell also showed sprays of the comparatively
new Moschosma riparium. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. W. Bull & Sons, King's Road, Chelsea,
showed a small but choice collection of stove and
greenhouse foliage plants. Peliosanthes teta was
shown in fruit. Nidularia innocenti striatum and
Pandanophyllum humile are two excellent sub-
jects for a warm plant house.

Messrs. John Waterer & Son, Bagshot, Surrey,
brought a number of ornamental Conifers, in-
cluding some of variegated and fastigiated form.
The rare Pinus flexilis was noticed. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Upper
Edmonton, set up a representative collection of
Davallias in plants of the high quality usually
shown by this well-known Fern specialist. (Silver
Gilt Flora Medal.)

Mr. A. F. Dutton, Iver, Bucks, exhibited some
excellent Carnations of the popular American
or winter-flowering type. We noticed a white
"sport" of that sterling variety Enchantress.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, Surrey,
showed a small collection of Carnations of an
exhibition standard of quality.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, staged a
mixed group of flowers and plants. They showed
well-grown Carnations in fancy vases, a good
batch of Cyclamen, small plants of Loraaria gibba
and other ferns, and some neat examples of the
beautiful variegated Saxifraga sarmentosa.

Mr. W. Seward, Nurseryman, Hanwell, W.,
put up a batch of Cyclamen that excited much
admiration, for they formed one of the finest dis-
plays in the hall. The plants were literally
crowded with flowers, and seen from either end
of the group they presented a sheet of bloom.
The individual plants were sturdy, and of the
best type of this seasonable florist's flower. The
strain is of exceptional merit. (Silver Gilt Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, had a showy group of Coleus
thyrsoideus, set-off by a back-ground of tall
Palms, and relieved with clumps of Gesnera
(Nasgeha) exoniensis, Primula X kewensis,
Jacobinia coccinea, and Eupatorium vernale, the
colours of these various flowers enhancing the
beauty of the group. Plants of Buddleia asiatica
(see awards) and a specimen of Debregeasia velu-
tina, with numerous small orange-coloured fruits,
also found a place in the display. (Silver Bank-
sian Medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, Lon-
don, N., showed .'^.Ipine and rock-garden plants in
a natural manner on a temporised rockery, which
gave the exhibit a realistic appearance, this being
further intensified by the inclusion of a number of
dwarf Conifers, Rhododendron dahuricum, Ham-
amelis Zuccariniana, Daphne indica, &c., on the
higher portions of the exhibit. Irises were shown
in plenty, I. histrioides, I. alata, I. stylosa, I.
sophemensis, &c., also Christmas Roses, hardy
Cyclamen, Primulas, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. G. Reuthe, Fox Hill Hardy Plant Nur-
sery, Keston, Kent, showed a small number of
choice Alpine plants, including many species of
Irises, Saxifrages, including the rare S. Frederici
Coburgu; Crocuses, Galanthus Ikarise, &c.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, showed Christmas Roses, Lachen-
alias, Irises, Crocuses, among which were splendid
pans of C. suzianus, C. imperati and C. Sieberi,
and many other early flowering hardy plants.

Messr-. John Peed & Sons, West Norwood,
London, had many pans of Alpine plants, hardy
succulents, a batch of Lachenalia pendula, and
some well-grown plants of Primula obconica.
(Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Thos. Ware & Co., Feltham, Middle-
sex, also exhibited plants of Primula obconica, in
addition to hardy plants and Carnations. Many
species and varieties of Helleborus were noticed
in this display. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutsford, showed
coloured Primroses, Christmas Roses, crested
turms of hardy Ferns, &c.

Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Colchester, dis-
played a large flowering variety of Saxifraga
liurseriana labelled S.B. major.

Mr. J. E. Lowe, Shrewley, Hatton, Warwick,
-lisplayed some excellent flowers of Chrysan-
themum Winter Cheer, a market or decorative

variety ha\ing blight rosy-pink coloured flowers.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Award.

Buddleia asiatica. This is a tender species from
India, introduced into this country in 1874 (Bot.
Mag. t. 6323). The plants are said to grow about
3 feet high. They have lanceolate leaves finely
serrated, and the flowers, though small in size, are
pure white and fragrant, and the racemes are of
considerable length. Shown by Messrs. Jas.
Veitch and Sons. (First Class Certificate.)

Orchid Committee.

Present : J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in the Chair,
and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De B.
Crawshay, J. W. Potter, W. Boxall, W. H.
Young, H. A. Tracy, A. A. McBean, H. T. Pitt,
G. F. Moore, Francis Wellesley, Elijah Ashworth,
Jeremiah Colman, J. Charlesworth, W. A. BUney,
H. Ballantine, F. W. Ashton, and Harry J,
Veitch.

The worse the weather the better the show of
Orchids! With frost and fog outside the hall,
and a very wintry temperature inside, the stages
were nevertheless richly bedecked with Orchids in
bloom.

Baron Sir H. Schroeder, The Dell, Egham
(gr. Mr. Ballantine), contributed a very fine group
lor which, a Silver Gilt Flora Medal was accorded.
In the centre was a very fine display of La;lia
anceps, chiefly white varieties, and among which
were fine L. anceps Dawsoni, Sanderiana, Stella,
Hilliana, Williamsiana, &c. The Cattleyas in--
eluded C. Trianas Schroderiana, a handsome
white form with rosy-crimson front to the lip ;
C. T. Russelliana, from the old-time collection of
Provost Russell, of Falkirk, and which, like the
fine pan of scarlet Sophronitis from the late Mr.
Day's collection bearing 40 flowers, tells much for
the good cultivation of Baron Schroder's Orchids.
Good masses of C. Percivaliana, Laelia acuminata,
Odontoglossum Uro-Skinneri album, O.xelegans,
Eastwood Park variety ; O. crispum, including
the neatly spotted variety Lord Selborne ; Cypri-
pedium x Lathamianum, with 15 flowers; C. X
Leeanum superbum, and other varieties ; C. X
Maudias, C. Mastersianum, Bull's variety, a grand
form ; Calanthe x Harrisii, Selenipedium x Clonius,
Cypripedium insigne varieties, &c.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, were awarded a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for
a fine group in which were about 80 plants of the
rich orange-coloured Laslio-Cattleya x Charles-
worthu, one of the best of winter Orchids. The
labellums were marked with purplish crimson in
\'arying degree. With them were several plants
of their handsome Cattleya x Octave Doin ; a fine
white Odontoglossum crispum, and the nicely
spotted O. c. Clarissa, O. x Harryano triumphans
Our Queen, a very large yellow flower heavily
blotched with chocolate-purple ; Laelio-Cattleya
X Andromeda, the new L.-C. x Prospero, and
other hybrids.

Messrs. J. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham, secured
a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for a very beautiful and
tastefully arranged group, rich in the best white
forms of Laelia anceps, and including L. a. vestalis,
Stella, Dawsoni, Percivaliana, Hilliana, Sanderi-
ana, &c. Among the Cypripediums were several
rare hybrids, viz., C. X Cleopatra, a dark-coloured
flower with peculiarly long, bright, rose-tinted
dorsal sepal; C. xexul x villosum giganteum,avery
fine flowerof thick texture, C. xSunray,C. xaureum
virginale, C. X triumphans, a varied selection of
good C. insigne, and C. X Leeanum varieties, and
others. At one end was a batch of good Cattleya
Trianae. &c.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, were
awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an extensive
and interesting group containing great variety. In
the centre was a splendid plant of Angraecura
sesquipedale with four of its large wax-like white
flowers ; a new form of Cymbidium x Ballianum
with purple-tinted flow-ers, C. Tracyanum, Odont-
oglossum odoratum, a curious form of O. crispum
with yellow and rose-tinted flowers ; a very hand-
some O. X Adrianas with white ground-colour
profusely spotted with purple ; Galeandia lacustris,
some good Calanthes, a remarkable Vandacmrulea,
w-ith white flowers having the labellums purple,
the elegant V. Watsoni, and a very fine selection
of Cypripediums, including the distinct varieties
of C. insigne, named Jewel, ampliatum, and Erin,
all of which bore fine markings on the dorsal
sepal, &c.

Messrs. Hugh, Low & Co., Enfield, received a
Silver Banksian Medal for a group in which were

January 27, 1900 ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

three plants of Vanda Amesiana, Cypripedium x
aureum Surprise, C. X a. Oedippe, a very pretty
C. X Hera Euryades, the deUcately tinted C. x
Venus, C. x Leeanum CUnkaberryanum, C. x
calloso-Charlesworth*, C. X Thompsoni, and the
beautiful C. X Mrs. William Mostyn, Chardwar
variety.

R. Briggs-Bury, Esq., Bank House, Accrington
(gr. Mr. Wilkinson), was awarded a Silver Bank-
sian Medal lor a select group, including three
plants of Cypripedium x Beekmanni, two C. x
Maudiae, C. x Thompsoni, C. X Parkerianum, a
fine Odontoglossurii x ardentissimum, and the
finely blotched O. crispum Mrs. F. Peelers, all
splendidly grown and flowered.

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Loochristi, Ghent,
secured a Silver Banksian Medal for a group
of very remarkable hybrid Odontoglossums, in-
cluding a very fine form of U. x Wiganianum,
two splendid forms of O. x ardentissimum, O.
X Rolfeje, O. X altum, and some pretty un-
named seedlings, one of them being allied to the
finely coloured O. x Vuylstekeae.

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), sent Brasso-Laelia X Mrs.
Gratrix, Westfield variety, a large reddish orange
flower, broad in all its parts ; Cypripedium X
Dicksonianum (villosum x Hera Euryades), with
rose-purple dorsal sepal with pure white tip ; C.
X aureum, Westtield variety, with white dorsal
sepal with green base ; C. x Cecil Dickson (Niobe
X Leeanum), and Laelio-Cattleya x Miss Mary
Froude, a delicately rose-tinted flower with reddish
purple front to the labellum.

Aiessrs. Stanley & Co., Southgate, staged a
small group in which were Cypripedium x Leea-
num grandisepalum, a remarkable flower with
enlarged lower sepals, one side being white, and
other Cypripediums ; a clear yellow, finely-spotted
Odontoglossum x loochristiense, &c.

Messrs. Heath & Sons, Cheltenham, showed a
collection of hybrid Cypripediums,

J. GURNEY Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), sent Cypripedium X
aureum Hyeanum.

R. I. Measures, Esq., Camberwell, showed
Zygopetalum x Max-Iorisi, with green flowers
marked with brown and white lip ; and Cypri-
pedium X Buchanianum magnificum, a reversion
towards C. Spicerianum.

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, Chelsea,
showed Sophro-Cattleya X Doris, and Dendro-
bium X Wiganise xanthocheilum.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, sent
Brasso-Cattleya X Orpheus rosea.

Elijah Ashwortii, Esq., Harefield Hall (gr.
Mr. Holbrook), sent the fine Cattleya Trianzei
Harefield Goliath.

Awards of Merit.

Cattleya x Octave Doiii (Mcndeli X Dowiana
aurea) from Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. A
charming flower, superior in shape to the be.-t C.
Mendeli ; sepals and petals white, delicately
tinted with rose on the margins of the petals ; lip
ruby crimson with gold lines at the base.

Phaius maculaius from Messrs. Sander and Sons,
St. Albans. Inflorescence erect, flowers large,
clear yellow with red markings on the lip. A fine
form of the species was shown.

Cypripedium x Bridgii (Godseffianum x Argus
Moensii) from G. F. Moore, Esq., Chardwar,
Bourton-on-the- Water (gr. Mr. Page). A very
distinct hybrid showing much of the handsome
C. hirsutissimum derived through GodseiJianura.
Dorsal sepal, downy and densely spotted with
.small blackish spots nearly covering the surface
except the white margin. Petals broad rose coloured
with a green base bearing black spots.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Mr A. H. Pearson, in the chair, and
Messrs. J. Cheal, W. Bates, S. Mortimer, A.
Dean, H. Parr, H. J. Wright, G. Keif, F. Q. Lane,
Owen Thomas, J. Willard, C. Foster, H. Somers
Rivers, and W. Poupart.

Only two displays were shown in the fruit and
vegetable section, one being a collection of Apples
and Pears staged by the Dowager Lady Hilling-
don, Wildernesse Park, Sevenoaks, Kent (gr. J.
Shelton), the other a number of forced crowns of
Chicory and Dandelion grown by Mr. C. Foster
at University College Gardens, Reading.
■ The Apples and Pears embraced 42 varieties.
A few good dishes of Apples were noticed, notably
those of Warner's King, Blenheim Pippin, Striped
Beaufin, and Cox's Orange Pippin. (Silver Knigh-
tian Medal.)

The two salads shown by Mr. Foster looked

tempting. The Dandelion was Sutton's Improved
Thick-leaved or cabbaging variety. The seed was
sown on July 16, 1905, in shallow drills i foot apart
the plants being thinned to the same distance in
the rows. The crowns were lifted in November
and forced under a bench in the absence of light.
(Cultural Commendation.)

THE LECTURE.
The afternoon lecture was delivered by Mr.
Martin H. F. Sutton. His subject, treated with
the ease and lucidity gained by experience, was on
"The Formation and Care of Lawns and Golf
Greens." The lecture was illustrated by an in-
teresting series of specimens, showing seedlings of
the various grasses used either singly or in com-
bination for particular purposes. The preparation
of the soil, the drainage, the relative advantages
and disadvantages of sowing or of turfing, the
species to be employed for particular soils and for
different purposes, the method and time of sowing
were all discussed, and the lecturer then passed on
to the special requirements of croquet lawns, tennis
lawns, bowling greens, and putting greens for golf.
It was pointed out that while cricket grounds were
disused for several months in the year the golf
greens are in constant use the whole year. The
best method of meeting this diSiculty was the for-
mation of duplicate " greens," so that one may be
rested and allowed to recuperate whilst the other
IS in use. The question as to the benefit or other-
wise derivable from worms was also touched on,
Mr. Sutton's conclusion being summed up against
the worms, though he was careful to add that if
removed some other means must be taken to in-
crease the amount of nutriment at the disposal of
the grasses. The chair was filled by Dr. M. T.
Masters, h'.R.S., and a few remarks were made by
Mr. A. H. Pearson and Mr. .-Mex. Dean.

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

&.d. s.d.

James Moore — There passed away on January
8, after a brief illness, Mr. Jas. Moore, aged 69
years, a good gardener, who fur nearly 16
years has been steward and gardener to Lord
Langford, at Summerhill House, Co. Meath.
Previous to his going to Ireland he had been
head gardener at Bray Court, Maidenhead, and
the gardens there were laid out under his super-
vision. When a young man he spent several
years in the Royal Horticultural Society's Gar-
dens at Chiswick. Deceased was universally
respected in the district. D. C.

IVI ARJKETS.

COVENT GARDEN, Junuary 24.
Cut Flowers, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

. d. s.d
3 0-50

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...
A/alea indica., per
doz. bunches ...
Azalea mollis, bun.
Bouvardia, per doz .

bunches

Calla aethiopica.per

dozen blooms ...

Camellias, doz. ...

Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms

Chrysanthemums,
per doz. speci-
men blooms ...

— small blooms,
per doz. bchs.

Cypripediums, per

doz.

Eucharis grandi-

flora, per doz.

blooms

Freesias, per doz.

bunches
Gardenias, perdoz.

blooms

Hellfcboru^, doz. ...
Hyacmth (Roman),

doz. bunches...

Lilac

Lilium auratum ...

— lancif oli uin,
rubrum and
album

— longiflorum ...
Lily of the Valley,

p. doz. bunches 6 0-90

— extra quality ... 12 0-15 0
Mignonette, dozen

bunches 3 0-40

■_' Mimosa, "Jz. bun. y 0-12 0

4 0-50
10-16

6 0-70

2 0-40
2 0-30

4 0- G 0
16-30

9 0-12 0

3 0-60
6 0-10 0

2 0- 2 (

3 0-40
2 6-36

2 0-
1 0-

4 0-90
2 0-40
2 6- y 0

2 0-30
4 0-60

s.d. s.d.

Marguerites, white,

p. doz. bunches 2 0-30

— yellow, doz. bun. 2 0-30
Narcissus, *' Paper

White," doz.
bunches

— Soleil d'Or ...

— Golden Spur,
perdoz. bnchs.

— Sir Watkin.per
doz. bunches...

— Telemonius,
pi en us, per
doz. bunches..

O dontoglossum
crispum, perdoz.
blooms

— grand e» per
dozen blooms

Pancratiums, doz.

Pelargoniums,

show, doz. bun.

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— Kai serin A,
Victoria

— C. Mermet

— Genera! Jacipie-
minot

— ■ Liberty

— Mad. CI. ate lay
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses ...

Tuberoses per

dozen blooms

— on stems, p, bun
Tulips, p. doz bnch

— special quality 15 0-18 ')
Violets, 12 bunches 10-20

— special qu^l.... 2 0- 3 U

— Parma, French,

larije bunches 3 0-50

1 G- 2 6

16-30

6 0-90
8 0-12 0

6 0-90

2 6-30

4 0-50

3 0-50

4 0-60

8 0-12 0
10 0-18 0

2 0-40

3 0-60

4 0-60

3 0-80

10 0-12 0

9 0-12 0

4 0-80

4 0-^0

0 4-09
10-20
6 0- 9 U

Asparagus plu-
inosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

bunch ...

— — short spra)s

per bunch...

— Sprengeri

— teuuissimus ...
Adiaiitum cunea-

tum, doz. bun. ...
Berberis, per

bunch

Croton leaves, per

bunch

'yeas leaves, each
Kern, English, p.

dozen bunches ...

6 0-12 0

1 e- 2 6

1 O- 1 G
0 6-10

0 6-09

6 0-90

2 6-30

0 9-13

16-20

2 0- 3 0 I

Fei-n, Frenchj doz.
bunches

Galax leaves, per
doz. bunches ...

Hardy foliage
(various), per
dozen bunches...

Ivy-leaves, bronze

— long trails per
bundle

— short green,
doz. bunches...

1 Moss, per gross ...
! Myrtle, per dozen

[ bunches

i Sniilax, per dozen

3 0-40
2 0- 2 G

;] II- G 0

J U- 2 0

2 0-30
5 0-00

3 0-00
16-40

6 0-80

5 0-80
12 0-15 0

12 0-30 0

18 0-30 0

30 0-42 0

9 0-12 0

9 0-10 0

9 0-12 0
2 0-36

6 0-18 0
6 0-lH 0
8 0-12 0

8 0-12 0

9 0-12 0
8 0-90

s.d. s.d.
Ferns, in thumbs,

perioo 7 0-10 0

— m48's,perdoz. 4 0-10 0

— in 32's, perdoz. 10 0-ls 0
Ficuselastica.p.doz 9 O-ls u

repens, perdoz. 5 0-80
Genistas, per doz. 12 0-15 0
Hyacinths(3inpot),

perdoz. ... 12 0-15 0

Kentia Belmore-

ana, per dozen 12 O-iS 0

Forsteriana,

12 0-21 0

per dozen

Lllii;

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d
Ampelopsis Veit
chii, per dozen..,
Aralia Sieboldi,
per dozen

— larger

Araucaria excelsa,

per dozen
Aspidistras, green,
per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

Asparagus plumo

sus nanus, doz. 9 0-12 0 per dozen

— Sprengeri, doz. 9 0-10 0 Latania borbonica,

— ten uissimus
per dozen

Azaleas, each

Begonia Gloire de
Lorraine, dozen

— Turnford Hall,
Callas, per dozen...
Chrysanthemum s,

per dozen
CinerariaSjper doz.
Clematis, per doz.
Crotons, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen ... 12 0-30 0
Cyclamen, per doz. 10 0-15 0

— extra quality... 18 0-21 0
Cyperus aJtermfo-

lius.dozen ... 4 0-50

— lasus, per doz 4 0-50
Drac^nas, perdoz. 9 0-24 0
Erica gracilis, doz. 12 0-18 0

— gracilis alba ... 18 0-24 0

— caffra 9 0-12 0

— hyemalis ... 12 0-24 0

— melanthera ... 12 0-18 0
Euooymus, perdoz. 4 0-90

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices

s.d. s.d.
Apricots (Cape

Colony), p. box 5 0-60
Apples :— English,

per bush :

Blenheim Pip'n 6 0-10 0

Lflium Harrisii,
per dozen
— lancif olium,
per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen
Marguerites, white,

per dozen
Narcissus, per

dozen

Pelargoni ums,
per dozen,

zonal

— scarlet ditto ...
Poinsettias, doz....
Privet, golden, per

dozen

Rhododend rons ,

per doz

Selaginella, dozen
Solanums, dozen...
Spiraea japonica,

per dozen
Tulips in boxes, per
doz. bulbs

23 0-26 0
17 0-20 0

24 0-24 6

— Wellington ... 8 0-14 0

— Calif or n i an
Newtown Pip-
pin, per case ... 8 6-14 0
Nova Scodans,
per barrel :

— ralla waters

— Wagners

— Russets

— Baldwins ... 21 0-24 0

— Ribston Pippin 19 0 —

— BlenheimPip'n 18 6-21 0

— Greening ... 16 0-24 0

— King of Tomp-
kin's County... 26 0-27 6
Canadian, per
barrel :

New York Im-
perials

— Russet

— Greening

— Baldwins
Bananas, bunch ...

— Ko. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extra quality...
Loubles

I per

1 0- :
4 0- I

— Gi an t
bunch ..

— Jamaica

— Loose, per
doz

Cranberries, case...

Custard Apples ...

Dates, Tunis, per

box

— Egyptian, cwt. 18 0-3.^ 0
Grape Fruit, p. box 8 0-90

Vegetables

Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground, Jbush. 19-20
Asparagus, per

bundle : —

— Paris Green ... 4 9-56
— - Sprue 0 7;V- 0 9

Beans, P>ench,p.lb 1 5 —

— Flageolet, box 0 10 —

— Home grown,

per Vb 2 0-26

— Channel Island 2 0-26

— Madeira, bask. 2 G- 3 0
Beetroot, bushel ... 10-13
Broccoli, per doz. 13-20
Cabbaiies, per tally 2 0-30

— red, per dozen 3 0 —

24 0-3G 0
18 0 lil 0

6 0-10 0
8 0-90

3 0- :. 0
3 0-40
9 0-J2 0

18 0-30 0
4 0- li 0
6 0-12 0

8 0-12 0

8 0-12 0

s.d. s.d.
Grapes, Alicante,

per lb 10-20

— Gros Colmar,
per lb

— Muscats, lb. ...

— Almeria, per
barrel

Lychees, per box...
Lemons ;

— Messina, case
Mangos, doz.
Nectarines (Cape),

per box
Nuts, Cobnuts, per
doz. tt)

— Brazils, p. cwt.

— Spanish, p. bag 31 0-34 0

— Barcelona, per
bag 24 0-21 6

— Almonds, p. cwt,33 0-31 0

— Monkey Nuts,
per bag ... 17 0-19 0

— Walnuts.dried,
cwt 35 0-40 0

— Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 14 0 —

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 fj-\l 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case ... 9 0-21 G

— Navel 21 0-22 (t

— Jafia 10 0-12 G

— Jamaica ... 9 G-U 0

— Mandarines,
per box (25) ... 10-12

— 50 19-20

— Palermo, perlOO 3 3-36
Peaches (Cape) ... 6 0- b 0
Pears, Califor-

nian, box ... 12 0-14 0

— stewing varie-
ties,per J bush. 2 6-39

Pineapples, each... 2 0- 4 G
Plums (Cape) p.box 5 0-70

: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d. I s.d. ^.d.

I Chow Chow,p.doz. 16-20

19-261 Carrots.Frenchpad 23-26

29 0 —

26 0-29 0
24 0-25 0
24 0-26 0

60-7 6
5 6-60
9 6-11 0
8 0-10 0

12 0-14 0
4 0-50

0 &- 1 0
14 0 —
4 0-90

0 4

15 0-21 0
12-13

8 6-lG 0
2 0-40

8 0-10 0

7 G- 8 0
40 0-42 0

c v.- t
washed

— ha:,', washed ...
Cauliriowers, doz.

— Italian Heads,
per basket

Celery, p. doz.bdls.

(I^eleriac, per doz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles

Kale, Scotch, bush.

Leeks, iz bundles

16 —
2 0-23
10-20

2 0-26
0 0-10 0
19-20
8 0-12 0
19-20

10 0-H 0
0 9 —

2 0-26

G4

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[January 27, 1906.

Vegetables: Average

s.d
Lettuces, French,

per doz.
Mushrooms(house}

per lb

— Buttons, lb. ..
Mint, per dozen ..
Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun.
Onions, VaJencia.
per case

— Dutch, bag ...

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, ^ ba^..
Parsley, i2bunches
Parsnips, per bag...
Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt

— French (new),
per lb

:e Wholesale Prices (continued).

. 0 11-

0 fi-

0 10

. 6 0

6 9-
3 9-

2 6-
2 6-
2 0-
2 6

12 0-

0 3-

14 0
0 4

s.d. s.d.
Potatos, Channel

Island Kidneys 0 7-08
Radishes, French

breakfast.p.dz. 10-16
Rhubarb, per doz. 0 10- 1 0
Salsafy,p.d/..bdls. 3 (i- 4 0
Savoys, per tally ... 3 6- 4 G
Spinach, perbushel 2 0 —
Sprouts, i bushel... 1 0- i fi
Sea Kale, per bun. 0 10 -1 0
Toniatos : —

— foreign, bundle

of 4 boxes ... 8 0-12 0
Turnips, per doz.

bun 16-20

— bags 19-20

Turnip Tops, bush. 0 6-09
Watercress, per

doz. bunches ..0 6 —

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Remarks. — A good supply of Grapes is maintained,
bunches of exceptional quality making from is. gd. to 2S. 6d.
per lb., but prices generally are moderate. Foreign Tomatos
are plentiful, in fact the supply exceeds the demand. Pine-
apples are making enhancea prices owing to a shorter supply
than is usual at this season. Foreign Apples are dearer.
Best quality Oranges are scarce, and prices for good fruits
have advanced; the major portion of these fruits now
arriving are of inferior quality. A large consignment of
Egyptian Dates arrived in a bad condition. Two thousand
barrels of Nova Scotian Apples were offered at auction on
Monday, 22nd inst., and sold readily. Trade generally has
not improved. E. H. Rides, Covent Garden, Wednesday,
January 24, 1906.

Potatos.

Blacklands, 55s. to 60s. ; Bedfords, 65s. to 75s. ; Lincolns,
65s. to 75s. ; Kents, 70s. to 80s. ; Dunbars, 80s. to 955.
per ion.— John Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covent
Garden.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

There is little that is new to record this week. Trade con-
tinues dull. Not quite so many good pot plants are seen.
Plants of Azalea indica in various colours are plentiful, but
some are not well flowered. Azalea mollis does not sell
readily. Spirasas, though good, do not find much demand.
Lilium longiflorum are fairly good. Also lancifolium album
and rubruni. Cinerarias are not quite up to the usual stan-
dard of quality. The cold weather affects the sale of Poin-
settias. Cyclamen are fairly plentiful, but many are not of
best quality. Marguerites are good and plentiful. Supplies
of Chrysanthemums are not quite finished, but most of the
plants now seen are of very poor quality. Callas, although
good, are rather tall. Hyacinths are abundant ; the majority
are grown three in a pot but some are in boxes, and some in
quite small pots singly. Tulips are over plentiful, these
are chiefly grown in boxes. Some well-flowered plants of
Rhododendron Cunningham's White, are seen. Daffodils
Golden Spur and Telemonius plenus are good. Begonia
Gloire de Lorraine continues plentiful, but some growers
do not send it quite up to the best market standard. Among
Ferns, Palms and other foliage plants there is little change.
Supplies are plentiful and the demand limited.

Cut Flowers.
Dafi"odils are now a prominent feature, the varieties being
Golden Spur, Sir Watkin, Princeps, and Telemonius plenus.
Owing to large supplies many are cleared at very low figures.
Narcissus poetJcus is already plentiful, and Soleil d'Or,
Paper White, with others of the Polyanthus type, are over
ibundanl. Roses are not numerous and best blooms are
making good prices. Supplies of Carnations, except those of
specially good bloom, continue in excess of demands. Chry-
santhemums are to be had still, but as many spring flowers
are now in season the demand for them has fallen ofl" ;
very late varieties of this flower do not pay so well as
those at a more seasonable period. Lily-of-the-Valley
has been over abundant for some time. Azalea Fielderi,
Camellias, white Pelagonium, and other short stemmed
flowers have little demand. Callas, although abundant,
appear to be selling rather better. Lilium longiflorum is
not so' plentiful, but they have not become much dearer.
Tulips are seen in immense quantities, and there must be
much waste with these flowers. French flowers are sent
in large quantities and are cleared very cheaply. All kinds
of foliage is well supplied. A. H,, Covent Garden Market,
January 24, 1906.

THE WEATHER.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
A cliangi to cold wcalher. The recent term of warm
weather lasted i8 days, during which there did not occur a
single cold day or night. On the 20th a change to cold weather
suddenly took place, and since then, although the day tem-
peratures have heen only slightly below the average for the
time of year, the exposed thermometer on one night regis-
tered 16" of frost— the greatest cold experienced here this
winter. The ground has become colder, and is now at about
a seasonable temperature at two feet deep, and about 1°
colder than the average at one foot deep. During the f^rst
three weeks of the present month rain fell on all but four
days, and to the total depth of 3J inches, an inch in excess of
the average for the whole month. We have to go back to
the end of May and beginning of June to find three
weeks equally wet, and even then the rainfall was not nearly
as continuous. Since the 21st the weather has been per-
fectly dry, if a few flakes of snow on one day be ex-
cepted. Seventeen gallons, or nearly the whole of the
rainfall of the recent wet period, has come through each
of the percolation gauges. The sun shone on an average
during the week for 2i hours a day, or for an hour a day
longer than is usual at this season. The wind has lately
varied greatly in strength. In the windiest hour of one day
the mean velocity amounted to 23 miles— direction W.N.W.,
whereas throughout the calmest day the average rate of
movement was less than half a mile an hour. The mean
amount of moisture in the air at 3 p.m. was 6 per cent, less
than is seasonable for that hour. E. M., Berlihamslcd
January 21, 190S.

Books: F. B. The American Cai'iiation : How to
Grow it, by Charles Willis Ward (New York :
A. T, De La Mare Printing and Publishing Co).
— C. A. J. The Booh of the Rose, by Rev. \.
Foster-Melliar, price 6s. 4d., post free; or
Pictorial Practical Rose Groining, by Walter P.
Wright, price is. 2d., post free. Both these
books can be obtained from our publishing
department.

British Gardeners' Association : F. IF., and
others. We are informed that the delay in
issuing the pamphlets has been caused by the
printers having been swamped with work in
connection with the General Election, but they
will be ready in the course of a few days. You
should address your enquiries to the Secretary,
Mr. John Weathers, Talbot Villa, Talbot Road,
Isleworth.

Correction. The Boiler mentioned under
" Enquiry " in our last issue should have been
spelt Menlo not Mento.

Gardener's Notice: T. G., Worcester. If you
fill the position of head gardener a month's
notice is the least that should be offered you.

Grubs : S. C. The grubs are those of one of the
Weevils ; trap them with pieces of Carrot or
Potato.

Habrothamnus elegans : IV. H. N. The newer
name you refer to is Cestrum elegans. Accord-
ing to your note the situation has been too hot
and too dry* for a specimen newly planted, and
it would have been better to have shaded the
glass roof for a time. The sun is sometimes
too powerful, on a south aspect, for this plant,
and it succeeds best on an east or west position.
You will do well to cut the plant hard back,
and, by suitable feeding, encourage the develop-
ment of strong growths next season. The plant
should be kept drier at the roots in the autumn
and winter.

Hvgroimeter : T. K. S. The table you require
is published in most of the meteorological
manuals, but for practical purposes the observa-
tion of the wet and dry bulb thermometers is
sufficient.

Moss on Lawns: /. McC. Remove as much of
the moss as is possible by means of an iron
rake, after which apply a good dressing of
decayed manure or rich compost, spreading tlie
whole evenly about half an inch in thickness.
Towards the end of March or in April rake
again with the iron rake, removing any rough
and unsightly portions of the manure. When
there is prospect of rain, sow a suitable mixture
of grass seed, and rake and roll in the seed.
Allow the grass to grow until the middle or end
of May, then mow with a scythe, and after-
wards keep under with the mowing machine.
If the lawn is wet from stagnant water this must
be removed by draining the land.

Names of Fruits : J. J. i, De Neige ; 2, Flower
of Kent; 3, Blenheim Pippin ; 4, Striped Beef-
ing.— G. G. Lamb Abbey Pearmain.

Names of Plants : R. R. Reading, i, Doodia
lunulata ; 2, Adiantum hispidulum ; 3, Adian-
tum Waltoni; 4, Aspidium mucronatum var.
laxum ; 5, Pteris argyrosa ; 6. P. tiemula. —
/. W. B. Bletia hyacinthina, Epidendrum
cochleatum. — Head Gardener. i, Echeveria
metallica; 2, StrobilanthesDyerianus ; 3, Cypri-
pedium venustum ; 4 Rhoeo (Tradescantia) dis-
color ; 5, Dendrobium nobile ; 6, Nephrolepis
tuberosa ; 7, Eulalia japonica variegata ; S,
Epiphyllum Russellianum. — Caldecote. Cypri-
pedium callosum. — f. P. 1, Daphne indica rubra ;
2, Eupatorium petiolare.

NvMPH.-EAS in Fountain : R. Sage. We have sub-
mitted your question to Mr. James Hudson,
whose success with Water Lilies in Mr. Roths-
child's garden at Gunnersbury House, Acton,
is so well-known. Mr. Hudson has kindly re-
plied as follows : — "You have not stated what
depth of water there is in the tank. Assuming
it to be from 12 to 18 inches deep, because less
than 12 inches in depth is not sufficient for any
Nymphaea excepting such as N. pygmjca and its
forms, the best mode of procedure would be as
follows : Obtain some clean ordinary building
bricks and place these tier upon tier for say 3
or 4 tiers, 5 bricks forming one tier with the
corners just touching, and crossing the second
over the first tier. Into the space thus formed
place some clean drainage material as in the case
of a pot plant. Then fill up to the top of the
bricks with soil, pressing it down gently. This

soil should consist of good loam broken into
pieces, as for potting plants in the usual manner,
and about as much in bulk of well decayed leaf-
soil, with road scrapings or sand in addition up
to about one fourth of the bulk of loam and
leafsoil. Plant the Lilies into this mixture, just
leaving the crown clear of the soil and suf-
ficiently firm to prevent the plants from be-
coming loosened afterwards. As a finish, and
in order to keep the Lilies firm, cover the
surface either with spar or gra\'el stones such as
would pass through a sieve with an inch mesh.
It is a common mistake to plant these Water
Lilies into pots, drainpipes and the like. In
so doing the roots are too much confined, and
both soil and water must of necessity become
stagnant and sour. Under the system advised
above, it is always possible to remove the bricks
and extend the area of root action without
causing any check to the plants, besides which
the roots can ramify through the soil in a more
natural manner. Any observant grower will
note that the roots are predisposed to extension
in a horizontal manner rather than downwards.
We never use either peat or charcoal here in
the cultivation of Water Lilies. It is not stated
whether the conservatory is shaded or not. In
order to succeed with Water Lilies in such a
place no shade should be given, otherwise there
would be a tendency to leaf development only.

Pines for Planting : T. W. C. We do not
think there is any material difference in point of
fragrance for the purpose you mention. Pinus
austriaca, Laricio, silvestris. Pinaster, contorta
inops, and, in sheltered situations, P. strobus,'
P. monticola, and the Douglas Fir Pseudotsuga
Douglasi. Thuya plicata, the Lobbi of the nur-
series, grows rapidly and is very fragrant. It
might be mixed with the others. The retention
of the leaves in the Oak, Beech, Hornbeam &c.,
is a matter of variety rather than of soil.

Quick Hedge : J. W. The quick-thorn Crataegus
oxyacantha is very hardy and may possibly
survive the application of tar ; at any rate we
should advise waiting another season to see the
result before grubbing the plants. Piobably
many of the younger shoots will suffer from
suffocation. An application of Stockholm tar
w'ould have been preferable, as this is a vege-
table product, and would not be so likely to
injure the plants.

Stove Climber : W. T. G. L. The sudden failure
is due to some check ; no insect or fungus disease
is present to account for it. Strong applications
of chemical manure to the roots would be suffi-
cient to cause the injury.

Twelve genera of plants for supplying cut

FLOWERS OVER A PROLONGED SEASON : Doulllful.

In attempting to guide you in the selection of
choice hardy plants for the supply of flowers for
cutting we take the opportunity to emphasise
the desirability of growing few varieties, and
those in distinct colours. For table decoration,
or for vases, it is preferable to have two or three
distinct colours in large quantities than to be com-
pelled to carry out the arrangements in numerous
small quantities of different shades or colours.
For instance, taking Roses, it is preferable, for
table work, to have 50 white and 50 pink
coloured blooms than 100 in 20 varieties of all
shades. This is equally applicable to Tulips,
Stocks. Sweet Peas, Carnations, etc. In making
this selection it would have been much easier
to have named 24 genera than 12, but lor your
purposes we think the flowering plants in the
following list indispensable. Narcissus (the
finest of the Magni-coronati, Medio-coronati
and Parvi-coronati groups). May flowering
Tulips, Anemones (St. Bridgid), Lily-of-the-
Valley, herbaceous Paeonies, Ten-week and East
Lothian Stocks, Tea-scented and hybrid Tea
Roses, Sweet Peas, Carnations, Lavatera
trimestris splendens (pink and white), the newer
varieties of Montbretia and a selection of the
best varieties of Michaelmas Daisy. We are un-
able to recommend a plant that is known to be
objectionable to cats.
Vines : IT. C. The single rod system is best. If
the vines are planted 4 feet apart, supernumer-
aries may with advantage be planted between
them. If the supernumeraries are good canes
grown in pots for fruiting this season you .
could crop them in that position.

CoMMLrNICATIONS RECEIVED. — B. W. — P. M. T. — R. W. R.,

thanks.— J. W. D.. next week. — j. Booth, Berlin. — A. W.
—J. Meager.— Gardener, Norfolk.— F. F. L.— E. Ash-
down. -T. T. T.— T. K. S,-G. H.— W. H. N.— C. T. D.
—J. C— A. E. L.-W. L. D.— J. B.-C. R. -T. S. -
E. M.-D. R.-A. B.

Supplement to the " Gardeners' Chronicle."

Views in the Gardens at Lockinge Park, Berks, the Residence of Lady Wantage

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.G.

February 3, 1306.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

o5

THE

#Hrbcncrs'CbronicIe

No. 997. SATURDAY. Fcbnuu-y J, 1900.

CONTENTS.

Nicotiana Sander^e 70,
Orchid notes and glean-
ings—
Leelio-Cattleya x exo-

niensis

Oncidium auriferum
V. nda Amesiana
Plant nomenclature
Plants for Rhododen-
dron beds

Plants, new and note-
worthy—
Syringa pinnatifolia...

Railway rates

Rosary, the

School of gardening, a

new

Societies —
British Gardeners' As-
sociation ... ■ ...
Brussels Flora ^nd

Liniiean
Gardeners' Debating
Irish Gardeners'

Benevolent

Manchester and North

of England Orchid
National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural...
(Scientific Com-
mittee)

Timber crops, the value

of

Vines, the planting of ...
Weather at Rothamsted

in 1905

Week's work, the
Flower garden, the ...
Fruits under glass -.
Hardy fruit garden ..
Kitchen garden, the ..
Orchid houses, the ...
Plants under glass ...

70

70
70
70
7ii

G3
75
70

73

7!)
79

79

79

7'2
72

78

78
78

75

71
70
71
71
70
70

Apple, Charles Ross ... 7G

Azara Gilliesii 7i

Books, notices of —

Alien Flora of Britain 68

All About Sweet Peas 72

Englishwoman's Year
Book and Directory

for 1906 73

Hortus Vilmorianus... 7;!

Reisen in Celebes ... 73

The Bamboo Maga-
zine 73

The Fern Paradise .. 68

W. H. Smith ik Son's

Annual 73

Writers' and Artists'

Year Book 73

Calathea Allouya ... 72
Canker in Apple trees ... 78
Carnations, a winter ex-
hibition of 78

Concert in aid of garden-
ing charities, a ... 73
•Conifers for large groups C9
Cultural memoranda —

Achimenes and

Tyd«as 74

Dendrobiums at Gatton

Park 73

Flowers, early 78

Flowers in season — 73

Forestry and climate ... 76
F^ruiterers" compaoy,

the 72

Fruit trees, the spraying

of 76

Fungoid diseases and

the need for legislation 74

Hemsley, the late O.T. 72

Herbs, a note on ... 78

Indian garden, an ... 73

Ins tuberosa 78

Kevv notes 75

Lockinge Park, Wantage G5

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Azara Gilliesii ... -^ — 77

Conservatory at Lockint^e Park, interior of the 66

Corridor at Lockinge Park decorated with plants ... GH
Flowers-beds and ribbon border in the gardens at

Lockinge Park, Wantage 07

Lockinge Park, Berks, views in the gardens at (Supple-
mentary Illustration)
View in the pleasure grounds at Lockinge Park ... 76

LOCKINGE PARK.

(See Supplementary Illustration and
Figs. 31, 32, 33, 34.)

THE residence of Lady Wantage, near
the small township of Wantage, in
Berkshire, possesses most of the
characteristics that go to make an
ideal country scat. It is somewhat remote,
being about five miles from the nearest rail-
way station, which is known as Wantage
Road, on the Great Western Railway
line, at about sixty miles from London.
The Wantage folk have a light railway
of their own, which connects their town
with this station, but the visitor to
Lockinge, if he drives from Wantage Road,
will not follow the light railway route
through Wantage, but, on the contrary, turn
to the left hand and enter a road which was
made by the late Lord Wantage, and which
traverses private ground all the way. One
cannot help being impressed with the
vast extent of the Loci'jinge estate, for on
driving from the station, the route passes
for 2 J miles through the park. In round
numbers the estate consists of 30,000 acres of
land, and of this area 14,000 acres are farmed

by her ladys'nip. When it is remembered
that this would provide 140 farms of 100
acres each, an idea may be formed of the
immense area of land under the manage-
ment of the home farm.

But our purpose is not to write in detail
of the agricultural features of this estate, but
rather of the gardens attached to the resi-
dence. And it may at once be said that ol
these the outstanding characteristic consists
in the numerous llower-gardens that in sum-
mer form so brilliant a setting for the man-
sion itself. .All the illustrations of the placfi

flower garden has been remodelled by llic
present gardener, Mr. W. Fyfe, who has
had charge of the gardens for 13 years past.
The beds are arranged on two levels, those
at the forefront of the picture being con-
siderably higher than the pathway. The dark
patches on the slope are of Box, and the
space between the narrow edging and the
Box slope is of red gravel, whilst the spaces
around the individual flower beds at the lop
are covered with white gravel. Tlie slope at
one time was of grass, but considerable
trouble was entailed in keeping it cut close,

Fig. ji. — LOCKINGE park: the corridor le.iding from the dwelling-house to

THE CONSERVATORY.
(From a photograph by W. J. Vasey, Abingdon.)

published in this issue have been reproduced
from photographs taken late last summer,
and on reference to them it will be seen that
there were flowers almost everywhere, and
the parterres are so near to the dwelling", and
they so surround it, that the building appears
to be in the centre of a flower garden.

The views in the supplementary illustra-
tion are of the flower garden on the terrace
facing the south front of the house. In thcS
top picture appears the broad path leading
towards the church, and the dwelling" house,
though not apparent, Is situated on the rigiit-
hand side of the same path. This part of tTie

and altogether it was unsatisfactory. The
present appearance is admittedly formal, but
being associated with the mansion, conserva-
tory and other buildings, and bounded with
broad, straight paths, it is at least in keep-
ing with its surroundings, and the effect is
good. The first flo->ver bed, which in the
picture appears rather dull, was last season
planted with Calceolaria amplexicaulls, and
some standards, five feet high, were inter-
spersed with the dwarfer plants. This old-
fashioned plant grew and flowered abun-
dantly— as well as we have ever seen it. In
the next large bed were hybrid Verbenas,

66

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febkuary 3, 1906.

which appeared just one mass of flower. The
beds on the lower level and opposite the point
where the ornamental terrace wall assumes a
half-circular shape, can be seen better in the
photograph, which is reproduced in the lower
picture.- Some of the beds contained tuber-
ous-rooted Begonias, and Gladiolus inter-
spersed with them. Large specimens of Aga-
panthus umbellatus were plunged in small
circular beds, and near by Nicotiana San-
deriE grew and flowered well, and was much
appreciated. Before turning from the sup-
plement, if the reader looks to the end of the
path shown in the top picture, he will see a
large specimen plant growing in a tub just

them are joined to the mansion, and face to
some extent that portion of the flower garden
shown in the supplementary illustration.

The gardens at Lockinge are not treated
merely as an adjunct to the house, to be
kept tidy, because being so near they would
be disagreeable if allowed to get into any
other condition. On the contrary, they are
loved for their own sake; they enter largely
into the every-day life of their owner, and
every moment that can be spared is spent
amongst the plants and flowers. The result
of this affection for the garden is seen in the
fact that the garden and house are brought
into as close association as possible; very

are floral, but most of which arc not, being-
portraits or landscapes, etc. Numerous
plants and flowers are placed about the room,
and so a person coming from the private
sitting or drawing rooms is gradually
brought into touch with the garden as he
moves towards the gorgeously floral corri-
dor, which last summer contained a quantity
of well-grown plants of the chimney Cam-
panula (Campanula pyramidalis"', Cannas,
Celosias, Liliums, etc

The conservatory, as seen from the coni-
dor, is shown in Fig. 32. It was a hand-
some mosaic floor, a square tank in tlie
centre containing a fountain, and is generallv

Fig. 32. — LOCKINGE p.\RK : view of the interior of conservatory.
(From a photograph by VV. J. Vasey, Abingdon.)

behind the white-looking seat. Attention is
drawn to this, because it is one of several
such specimens of the lemon-scented Verbena
(Aloysia citriodora). They are 12 feet in
height, and nearly as much in diameter,
being the finest plants the writer has ever
seen of this fragrant species. Mr. Fyfe said
that he raised them from cuttings about 13
years ago. They are so large that quantities
of long green shoots may be cut from them
without their being missed, and when in
bloom their long panicles of pale-lilac coloured
flowers have as elegant an effect as those of
the Tamarix.

Reference may now be made to Figs. 31
and 32, because the structures shown in

jnuch closer association than is common.
This is done by bringing, as it were, the
garden into the house. Fig. 31 represents
the interior of a corridor, and the reader may
look towards the opening which leads into
the conservatory. But if he turned round and
walked in the other direction, he would enter
what is known as the " garden room," which
intervenes between and joins up the private
rooms in the mansion and the afore-men-
tioned corridor. This garden room is some-
thing one is not accustomed to see in such
residences. It is neither a conservatory nor
a dwelling room, but partakes of the nature
of both. The walls are adorned with very
valuable paintings, some of which subjects

an ornamental structure. The ironw ork that
may be seen at the end is some interesting
hammered metal, with mirrors at the back,
which appear somewhat meaningless. Coboea
scandens, and many other trailing plants
hang from the roof, and, in addition to
plants with decorative foliage arranged on
the floor, were such flowering species as
Lilium speciosum, Cannas, Narine Fother-
g-illi, Streptocarpus, Campanulas, Crinums,
Kalanchoe flammea, etc.

On the walls of the mansion and those of
ika garden room are some fine specimens of
climbing plants, including Vitis Coignetiae,
Ceanothus azureus, Passifloras, and Ipomoea
rubra coerulca. This last-named species has

FEBra-AKv 3, ie06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

tjiown 20 feet in height, and it flowers so
ii-cely the olTcct is brilliant. It may be men-
tioned here that IpCMticea rubra coerulca is a
lavouritc material at Lockinge for use in
decorating the dinner table, and, accordingly,
Mr. Fyfe obtains flowers at all seasons of
the year from plants cultivated under dif-
ferent conditions for the purpose.

The photO'graph reproduced at Fig. 33
represents a broad border with the front
broken up into projections of varied form.
This border separates the little parish church
from the mansion, some ten or fifteen paces
north-east of the church. The bordeii_
last season was planted in some measure as a

If a line were to be drawn at right angles
with the further end of the ribbon border, it
would stretch across the west front of the man-
sion, and here again thc;e aie. flowers \>:;ry close
to the building. But in this instance they are of
pesennial herbaceous species, which are culti-
vated on a border of liberal width that is just
on the far side of the terrace wall. Whilst
writing of the west front, it may be interesting
to explain why the parish church (built in
1064) is so close to the mansion, and has flower
borders around it. The circu-mstances are
these. Years ago, when I^ord Wantage came
first to Lockinge, the village extended to a
point very near to the mansion on this, the we^t
front, but during his late lordship's life he

walkmg to the south-west, there is a brook
which has been made interesting in several
places. A photograph, showing a fern-covered
bridge across this water, was reproduced as a
supplement to the Gardeners^ Chronicle, October
2S, I9O0. Another view of a stream (which con-
tains a large number of trout in the deeper
portions) is afforded in Fig. 34, at a point
where it winds through a portion of the plea-
sure grounds, with Cannas and many other
species of suitable plants growing on its banks.
A circular Rosarj' is a feature in the grounds,
which extend for a considerable distance south
of the house. There is plenty of timber in
the large park, and some good specimen trees
in the pleasure grounds. Indigenous species

Fig. 33.— lockinge p.-vkk : showing .\ uibbo.v border ne.^Iv to the old paiush chlkch.
From a photogi-aph by W. J. Vasey, Abingdon.)

ribbon border. The front line was composed
of Lobelia, and behind it in succession were
dwarf Antirrhinums, Ageratum, fibrous-rooted
Begonias, and Veronica Hendersoni variegata.
Tn the background were standard plants of the
vellow-flowered ^Marguerite, the double-flowered
white Datura (Brugmansial, Keliotropiura,
Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, etc. Many of these
t;iller plants were gTowing in tubs, and ase kept
from season to season. In the beds that con-
stitute so formal a front to the border, standard
Lantanas were associated with Coleus and
ether plants. Mr. Fyfe has found the varieties
of I.antana now obtainable exceedingly useful
plants fcr the flower garden, and owing partly
to their habit of blooming continuously over a
long period they are used in considerable
uumbers.

acquired considerable ground, and the cottages
were removed. In the words of a local in-
habitant, the village was " pushed back." But
there were difficulties in regard to the church,
and therefore whilst this sacred edifice remains
in the old position, its environs are quite al-
tered, and it is now, as already stated, sur-
rounded by flowers and pleasure grounds.
Nevertheless it is a public place of worship, as
of yore, and the parishioners come to the build-
ing as freely now as they ever did. On the
north side, tliere vvas last T season a border
planted with Antirrhinums facing to the house,
and there are three old pyramid Yew trees
which Lord Wantage brought with him when
removing to Lockinge. A carriage drive leads
up to this side, and there are deep rockeries
on the banks. Proceeding from the house and

that appear to grov^- best are F.lm, Buckthorn,
Beech, and Oak.

Fruit Houses, etc.
It is not possible on this occasion to write
in detail of the plant and fruit houses. On
the whole, they are of the kind one would ex-
pect to be eniplo3-ed at such a place. Vines,
Teaches, Figs, Fines, Melons, Cucumbers, and
Toniatos are cultivated in considerable quan-
tities, and Strawberries are forced in the house
in winter and spring. Mr. Fyfe's system of
Vine culture was explained again and again
in these columns in 1904, when he was en-
gaged in writing the weekly calendar on fruits
under glass. He is a great believer in tV-K;
sound practice of encouraging the roots to
multiply af the surface of the border, and v, hol3

G8

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 3, 1906.

turves are laid down in places to entice them
to do this. A very uneven surface is thus left
to the bord«rs, but later a little top dressing
containing bone meal and other manures is
applied, and the results quite justify the
methods adopted. When these notes were
taken, in September, there were better Muscat
of Alexandria Grapes hanging in the Lockinge
Vineries than were afterwards exhibited at the
Royal Horticultural Society's show in Vincent
Square. Excellent fruit of Lady Downe's Seed-
ling and Black Alicante were hanging at the
same time, in addition to other varieties. In
one of the Peach houses, the system of apply-
ing turf each year to the surface of the border
has had a surprising effect on one of the trees,
for, although it is of some age, and has a stem
several inches in diameter, it has been induced
to send out a root at a point just above the
ground level, and where the wood and bark
might have been expected to be too hard. It
should be understood that by Mr. Fyfe's
methods, the border is raised just a trifle as
time goes on, and in some cases the trees adapt
themselves to the conditions and make fresh
tiers of roots. If Vines and Peaches could do
this very easily and continuously, gardeners
would have little reason to care much for the
deeper roots, which in time would probably
perish, just as those of the Poplar trees in the
Belgian sand dunes. But they are incapable of
doing this to an appreciable degree, and there-
fore if the covering up of the roots proceeds too
hastily, the trees are liable to be suffocated.
Thus, some who have imitated Mr. Fyfe in this
matter, but have been less careful than he, have
suffered from doing so. Melons are cultivated
with all the success that could be desired, and
in large numbers. The same holds good in
regard to Tomatos, and Mr Fyfe having con-
vinced himself that Tomatos care little about
the rooting medium supplied, provided it is
perfectly well drained and that by some means
sufficient nutriment is obtainable, has planted
them in mere ashes and clinkers in one of the
houses, with just one inch deep of soil over
the roots, and they yielded heavy crops of
fruit.

Just one word may be said about Rehmannia
angulata, one of Messrs. Veitch and Sons' new
plants, which is cultivated for furnishing the
corridor, conservatory, etc. Mr. F}'fe culti-
vates specimens 11 feet in height, and one foot
in diameter, and they flower profusely in spring
in 7-inch pots.

Fortune's Yellow Rose, as most of our
readers are probably aware, is one of the
features of the plant houses at Lockinge. It
grows and flowers abundantly each year.

The kitchen garden consists of 4 acres of
land, and is situated on rising ground in the
park. The soil there is neither plentiful nor
of the best description, and the fruit trees culti-
vated against the walls have to be lifted every
two jears, or the leaves become thin and pale
in colour, as though possessing no chlorophyll.
For this reason, in most cases where re-plant-
ing has to be done, cordon trees are selected
for the purpose. Good kitchen' garden crops
are obtained, but they are more the result of
the gardener's skill than of suitable conditions
in the garden itself. A crop of Onions raised
at Lockinge was illustrated in these pages,
April 1, 1905. P. H. R.

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

"The Fern Paradise." Francis George Heath.
The Country Press. 7th Edition.
Mr. Francis George Heath has been so long
before the public as the apostle of our native
Ferns that it is disappointing to find by this
new and enlarged edition that during the 27 years
which have elapsed since the first one and the sab-
sequent publication of The Fern World, &c.,
v;hich by their comprehensive title would imply a

complete survey of his subject, he has apparently
learnt absolutely nothing new to extend the
originally limited scope of his remarks. Cer-
tainly the title of this volume is justified so far
as it applies to the scenic beauties ol Devonshire,
the author dilating enthusiastically upon these,
the references to the common Ferns which
contribute thereto being worked in to the utmost.
This book, however, like the others on the same
subject by Mr. Heath, simply traverses the same
ground over and over again, ostensibly telling us
all that there is to be told about our native Ferns,
while doing nothing more than describe and figure
the normal types and their habitats as many
cheaper and handier books have previously done.
The rest is mere eulogy. As regards the
British Ferns proper, it is almost inconceivable,
considering the literature extant, that not even the
remotest allusion is made to the varietal side of
the subject, though many of the more beautiful
varieties known were found vtj'd in precisely the
localities he describes. There is consequently not
a word relating to the many ardent Fern lovers
to whose efforts we are indebted for far more
lov'ely forms than those Mr. Heath treats of,
and in the chapters on the Common Polypody and
the Hartstongue he does not even mention the
Welsh Polypody (P. v. cambricum) or the Frilled
Hartstongue (S. v. crispum) w-hich have been
known for a century or more. No reference is
even remotely made to other instructive literature,
and the impression is generally conveyed that Mr.
Heath, and none but he, had ever dealt with
British Ferns or advocated their culture. We
look in vain for any evidence that he really
possesses a proper comprehension of what our
native Ferns are as a -dhole. On page 154, too, we
find the following statement : — "Ferns that grow
in wild woods and open spaces are in the free
right of all who choose to gather them." This is a
distinct incentive to that vandalism against which
all true Fern lovers have long protested, and
against which the law itself has recently and
properly pronounced. ~We note, too, in this con-
nection that the author himself, in finding a
rare Fern (.\splenium lanceolatum) , had no hesi-
tation in uprooting it to ascertain what it was. He
asserts too that "many Ferns which grow in
Devonshire are never seen in other counties" (p.
214), while there is not a single species in Devon
which does not grow in many other parts of the
country. He also describes Ferns as seed-bearing
plants, and seems generally to confound seeds and
spores as identical.

Alien Flora of Britain, by Stephen Troyte
Dunn. West, Newman & Co.
This work comes to us from far-off Hong Kong.
The author, who was at one time an assistant in
the Kew herb.irium, was unexpectedly appointed
to the Botanical and Afforestation Department at
Hong Kong. Pressure of official work, therefore,
prevented him from arranging his notes on the
waifs and strays of the British Flora, but by
the aid furnished by his wife he was, he tells
us, able to bring the work to a conclusion, so far
as the absence of the standard works on the
geographical botany of Europe permitted him.
The difficulty of determining, in all cases, whether
a plant is really native and aboriginal, or whether
it has been introduced at some more or less remote
epoch is much greater than the ordinary observer
would suppose. In the work before us Mr. Dunn
gives us some indications of the methods of
observation and the deductions from them which
enable botanists to say this plant is an " introduc-
tion," this is an old inhabitant, and that one a
genuine native. A plant found growing on a wall
can hardly be considered as a "native." A plant
flourishing in a hedge-bank has also doubtful
claims to be considered as a native. Out of 924
aliens enumerated in this book 123 are old-estab-
lished weeds of uncertain origin, 332 are due to

horticulture and arboriculture, while 206 are grain-
sifting [sifted ?] aliens of recent appearance and
of little permanence. The plants enumerated are
named in conformity with the Index Kewcnsis, and
arranged in their genera and orders in the sequence
of the Genera Planlarum. It is surprising to read
that Escallonia rubra grows on cliffs in northern
Ireland, evidently as an escape from gardens, and
equally surprising to find a doubt entertained
of the status of Galium aparine, seedlings of
which are at this very time occurring in profusion
on the side of ditches and in hedge banks, locali-
ties which give rise to suspicion. The hedgerow
protects it at this stage, whilst its rampant habits
and hooked prickles enable it to shift for itself at a
later stage and to dispossess other less well-
endowed plants. Ceterach officinarum grows in a
locality within eight or fen miles of London, but
under circumstances which lead one to think it may
have been introduced with stone from the West of
England. A similar remark applies to Cotyledon
Umbilicus; on looking through Mr. Dunn's book
we begin to wo ider how many real original
natives he would admit. Even the common
Groundsel is looked upon with suspicion, and so is
the common Tansy, though it grows on river
banks in the Thames Valley side by side with
Lythrum salicaria and Spiraea Ulmaria, whose
claims to be a native are not contested. Arum
italicum is, we think, more common in Kent, near
the sea, than is generally supposed ; it grows in
spots far away from gardens and seems as spon-
taneous as Arum maculatum itself. From the
different general appearance it presents as con-
trasted with the cultivated plant it is a subject
for enquiry whether, after all, the Kentish plant
may not be a well-marked variety of A. macu-
latum, with which it often grows in association.
From these disconnected remarks it will be seen
what a mine of interest Mr. Dunn has provided
for those who love our native plants. For our
own part we are not disposed to look" with disdain
upon the "introductions" and "newcomers."
There is as much interesting information to be
obtained as to their history and as to the how and
why they have succeeded in establishing them-
selves as there is in the study of the conditions
which enable us to call others — " wild flowers." A
good index completes a book which will be of
great service to students of "ecology" and of
plant associations.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

A NEW CHINESE LILAC WITH PINNATE
LEAVES.*
SvRiNGA pinnatifolia. — At first sight this new
Lilac might be taken for a variety of the
Persian, as it certainly resembles Syringa persica,
var. laciniata, but on closer examination it
proves to be a distinct species. It differs in
all the leaves being distinctly pinnate, that is
divided to the midrib into separate leaflets ;
in the lanceolate acute leaflets of much thinner
texture, and very minutely fringed on the margin ;
in the rounded lobes of the calyx ; and in the
relatively longer corolla-tube. Syringa pinnati-
folia, as I propose naming it, was imported by

* Syringa pinnatijolia, HansUy; species nova, S. persicos
var. laciniatie similis, a qua imprimis foliis omnibus piu-
natis et foliolis lanceolatis acutis distincte disjunctis differt.
Frutcx 6-8 pedalis, fere omnino glaber, ramulis floriferis
gracillimis. Folia cum petiolo communi graciii 2-3 poll,
longa ; foliola 7 vel g, sessilia, tenuia, infra medium latiora,
j-ijt poll. longa, apiculata, margine obscure ciliolata, venis
subtus sat conspicuis. Flons albi, circiter semipollicares,
in paniculas asillares sessiles graciles quani folia breviores
dispositi, pedicellis brevibus gracillimis. Calyx circiter
lineam longus, lobis brevissimis rotundatis. Corollie titb,(S
angustus, circiter i poll. longus; lobi ovato-oblongi, apice
rotundati, circiter 1^ lin. longi. Stamina paullo sub apice
tubi affixa, fere sessilia: antherje inclusx. Stylus bifidus,
quam corolliE lubusdimidio brevior. Capsula ignota.

Fkbruakv 3, ItOe.J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

G9

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, through their
collector, Mr. E. H Wilson, who discovered it in
the extreme West of China, at an elevation of
9,000 feet. Like many of his discoveries, it appeared
to be quite rare, and no seed was collected, but a
youn,!{ plant was brought home safely. Mr. Wilson
describes it as an elegant bush, six to eight feet
high, with veryslender branches and white flow-ers.
It has not yet flowered in this country, so far as I
know, but judging from the dried specimens I
venture to predict that this new Lilac will prove
a welcome acquisition.

I wonder why one so seldom sees the cut-leaved
Persian Lilac in gardens ? Is it because it is a shy
bloomer ? Philip Miller, according to whom it
was introduced into England upwards of 260 years
ago, and before the ordinary Persian, states that
"on its first arrival it did not flower for some
years, but afterwards it became hardy, and pro-
duced its flowers in plenty every year." IF. Bolting
llcmsUy.

CONIFERS FOR LARGE GROUPS.

The general introduction of ornamental Coni-
fers into our pleasure-grounds dates from about
sixty or seventy years. This is rather difficult
to realise for those of us at least who are unable
to remember the appearance of gardens and
pleasure grounds before the middle of the last
century. We look upon Cupressus macrocarpa
and Thuya plicata (the gigantea of gardens) now
rearing their heads 60 or 80 feet high, and as-
sume that they must have been here for a much
longer period, yet the former was introduced in
1S47, and the latter in 1854. As a matter of fact
we are only now in a position to judge of the
size to which they are likely to grow, the habit
they are likely to assume, the effect they have
in relation to one another, and the general as-
pect they give to the landscape. Their beauty
(at least in the young state) we have long learnt
to appreciate, and to some extent we have been
told by travellers what we might expect regard-
ing their later development, but the information
we have had has not always proved trustworthy
in this direction, because some plants, which
grow to good-sized trees in their native habitat,
with us in England do not make anything like
the same headway. Sciadopitys verticillata, for
instance, is said to grow 50 or 60 feet high in
Japan, whilst we have some difficulty to get it
beyond 15 or 20 feet.

There must have been some difficulty about
the middle of the last century among planters cf
Conifers who had no matured plants to judge
by. Their dilemma is apparent now in many
instances where what should have been hand-
some specimens are so crowded that each is
ruining its neighbour. The planter in these
days can form a much better conception of the
amount of ground each species is likely to re-
quire when matured, not from observation of
plants growing in exceptional soil or under ex-
ceptional shelter, but under ordinary conditions.

The colour of Conifers can be seen, of course,
in most instances, at a fairly early age ; though
perhaps this does not hold good in all. From
the dark, glossy, luxuriant green of Pinus radiata
£= insignisj there is an almost endless variety of
shades to the silvery hue of Abies concolor ; and
from the gold tint of Taxus baccata aurea to the
bronze tint of Cryptoraeria elegans.

The outhnes of the members of this order are
exceedingly diverse, and what is perhaps the
most curious feature is the propensity of some
to alter their physiognomy during growth. In
som^ cases the form characteristic of youth
is completely altered, and there is no trace of
it in the matured plant. The mode of growth,
too, is very varied ; some are columnar, some
conical, others broadly conical, and others
rounded. They will grow well in well-drained
soil of loamy character, hut are impatient of

cold or sodden s'lil. They receive dressings of
manure kindly, and generally speaking are not
difficult to cultivate nor fastidious in their re-
quirements.

The following species are well adapted for
planting in groups. To realise the true beauty
of a group of Conifers one has to stand in an
open space (a small lawn, for instance), around
which have been planted Conifers of varied
height, colour,^ and shape ; or to walk between
these plants when there is room to view each
from a short distance. Where there is lack of
room, it should be remembered that twenty
healthy and symmetrical plants are much more
pleasing to look at than a hundred trees cram-
med together in a space where their proper de-
velopment is an impossibility.

Some little care is needed when the plants are
young to make sure that their leaders are not
damaged, or if a leader should be injured to find
another shoot and train it up. When they are
out of reach this is no easy matter, still it is
worth while rigging up a pair of ladders and a
pole rather than to leave the plant to spoil or
become contorted. The loss of 'a leader may
not only throw a plant out of its proper shape
at its apex, but its symmetry may be spoiled. A
little judicious pruning may be required in any
case, but this is not often wanted.

Piiius radiala, better known as F. iiisigiiis,
makes a truly noble tree, growing from 70 to
90 feet high, covering a space 60 feet in dia-
meter, and is of a lovely green colour. The
lowest branches are bent upwards, leaving the
base of the tree exposed when there is not ample
light all round.

/'. exrelsa grows to about 70 feet in height, is
very graceful in appearance ; impatient of crowd-
ing, though it will admit of closer neighbours
than P. radiata. Its colour is silver-grey, shape
pyramid.il [very variable in this respect. — Ed.]
covering a space 50 feet in diameter.

P. Ayiicahuile. — A little-known but handsome
Mexican tree, the cones of which measure a foot
or more in length ; height 50 feet. It covers a
space 50 feet through.

Ccdrus sp. — Cedars are uncertain ; the Deodar
at least has not fulfilled in its maturity the
promise of its early and middle life. C. libani
is too well known to need description ; it is not
well fitted for a group. C. atlantica makes a
good specimen, with a height of 70 feet, cover-
ing a space 60 feet through.

Sequoia giganlea [WeHingtonia] is a magnifi-
cent tree, conical in shape, 80 to too feet high.
II covers a space 50 feet through.

Abies Webiiaiia grows 80 feet high, is conical
in shape, and bears handsome purple cones ; the
foliage is dark green with glaucous lines on the
under side of the leaves. It covers a space
30 feet through.

.4. Nordmauniana. — This is a handsom.5
species, broadly conical in shape, attaining a
height of So feet, and covering a space £o feet
through.

.4. rcliriosa is a tree which grows 00 feet high,
with long pendent branches ; it is somewhat
impatient of overcrowding, and is liable to be
injured by wind. Where it is sheltered it makes
a magnificent specimen.

A. conco'.or. — In this the foli'ige is glaucous
green ; it is a handsome plant, and will pro-
bably make one of the best when matured ; it is
said to grow 100 feet high in its native habitat.

Ficea Morinda Smilhiana. — A noble, broadly
conical tree, the colour of the foliage light
green. It grows 70 feet in height, covers a space
30 feet through, the branchlets drooping foun-
tain-like.

P. excelsa, the common Spruce, may be planted
for protection, but is not a great favourite for
ornamental work.

A raucaria imbricatci. — A tree attaining a height
of 50 feet, and covering a space 30 feet through.
If the soil is such as to admit of this plant hav-
ing enough water without being stagnant, it
forms the hand.somest of all Conifers either for
a group or as a specimen.

Cunningltamia sinensis. — This is something like
-\raucaria imbricata, but is much more delicate.
It suffers greatly if exposed to wind. I have
si'en a specimen about 30 feet high covering a
space 25 feet through, but even in the most
favoured situation it is a risk to plant it.

Cryptomeria jafonica makes a handsome tree
60 feet high, covering a space 25 feet through.

Cupressus macrocarpa grows 70 to So feet in
height, and 25 to 30 feet through. It forms a
splendid tree to plant for shelter or in an orna-
mental group ; near the sea, or inland if planted
in an exposed position, it is liable to lose its
leader rather quickly.

C. Lawsouiana. — A free grower, conical in
shape ; height 30 feet and upwards, and 10 to
12 feet through. Some of the varieties are re-
markably beautiful.

Jiiniperiis communis may be anything from a
trailing plant upwards, to a height of 20 feet.

Pseudolsuga Douglasi, the Douglas Fir. — A
handsome Conifer which in good soil and situa-
tion reaches 100 feet in height and 40 feet
through.

Cupressus {Rctiiiospora) pisifcra grows 20 feet
high and about as many through. A most desir-
able plant for a group, as are also C. filifcra,
C. obtusa (about the same for size), while C.
cricoides is dwarfer and exceedingly attractive.
[These are all juvenile stages of species of
Cupressus, and are liable to revert to the specific
form.]

Sciadopitys verticillata, unfortunately, decs
not do well with us. It grows 15 to 20 feet
in height and 7 or 8 feet through, and is a very
curious-looking plant, but rather fastidious.

Sequoia seinpervircns, the Redwood, grows to a
great height ; it does well on most soils, but
shows a brownish-red on its dead leaves if not
well suited. A large tree, but not covering a,
great space.

Taxus baccata var. fastigiata, the Irish Yew, ,s
a dark-green foliaged tree, 25 feet high, colum-
nar, and will stand any amount of pruning.

Thuya dolzbrala, a very beautiful plantj 20
feet high, 12 to 15 feet through ; it loves a warm,
well-drained soil. '

T. fluata ^_-- the T. gigantea cr T. Lobbi of
gardens] grows to a height of 60 feet and is about
7 CI 8 feet through, columnar. A very striking
effect is produced by grouping this remarkable
plant judiciously. Sometimes this plant as-
sumes quite a conical shape. [Few Conifers
bear the knife so well as this. — Ed.]

podocarpus andhia. — A Conifer of great beauty,
V. ith dark-green, shining leaves; it grows 20 to
23 feet high and 15 feet through.

There are a number of plants in cultivation
which are members of this Order that have been
well known for a much longer period than tho.sc
named above, but to give their names is un-
necessary. On the other hand, there are many
handsome Conifers whose constitution is now
being tested in many parts of this country and
in Ireland about which it is hardly safe to say
anything yet regarding their fitness to withstand
our climate. If the appearance of their youth
is any forecast of that of their age, then Abies
brachyphylla and other Japanese kinds, as well
as Pinus Montezurnae and P. ponderosa, and
many others, will add to the beauty and interest
of the pleasure-ground. H. IV., Trevince, Red-
ruth, Cornwall.

70

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Fedruaey 3, 1906.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

ONCIDIUM AURIFERUM.

A COMPACT branched inflorescence of this pretty
and uncommon species is sent by Messrs. Hooley
Bros., Bitterne Park, Southampton, who received
it with an importation of Odontoglossum luteo-pur-
pureum from New Granada. It is an ally of O.
panchrysum, and like that species the light green
stems of the flower-spikes have a delicate bloom.
The flowers, which are about f inch in length,
are of light yellow colour, with some reddish
brown markings on the sepals, petals and base of
the lip. It is a cool-house Orchid and an attractive
plant on account of its bright yellow flowers and
compact habit.

L^LIO-CATTLEYA ;< EXONIENSIS.

A FLOWER of this fine Veitchian hybrid comes
from Mr. W. T. Hurlstone, Parkfield Gardens,
Worcester, whose remarks on the plant are in-
teresting. "Our largest plant has 21 bulbs and
three leading ' growths. The bulbs and leaves
together are nearly 2 feet in height. The plants
have been here since 1876." It is interesting to
find that such fine specimens exist of the original
stock which first flowered with Messrs. Jas. Veitch
and Sons in 1S66, and was described by the late
Professor Reichenbach in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
1867, p. 1,144, as Cattleya exoniensis. The
flowers are 6 inches across, with pale lilac-tinted
sepals and petals, the front of the lip being of a
rich crimson-purple colour. Despite the large
number of hybrids recently raised it is well worthy
to rank with the best.

VANDA AMESIANA.

A CLpAR white variety of this pretty and fragrant
Orchid is sent us by D. Campbell Brown, Esq.,
Bank of Scotland House, Oban. The flowers
which are \\ inch across are pure white with
three thickened light rose-coloured lines forming
the crest of the lip. The species was imported
in considerable quantity in 1887 by Messrs. Hugh
Low and Co., from the hills of the Southern Shan
States, India, and it has been found to thrive well
in a cool intermediate house. It is winter flower-
ing, and active growth commences in spring, from
which time an increased amount of warmth and
moisture should be afforded the plants until growth
is completed. The flowers are usually tinged with
pale rose colour, but, as in the present instance,
are occasionally pure white.

COLONIAl. NOTE.

NICOTIANA SANDEKiE IN CANADA.

I HAVE read with interest thfe difterent experi-
ences of cultivators of Nicotiana Sanders re-
corded in the Gardeners' Chronicle. My experi-
ence in this country is that as a bedding plant
it is a partial disappointment, as the flowers
close during bright sunshine, when the whole
plant looks half dead. In Britain it may pos-
sibly behave better, owing to the more humid
atmosphere.

As a pot plant, I have not experienced the
same result as Mr. Etherington, p. 331, Novem-
ber 4. I sowed my seed in February, and the
plants, in ten-inch pots, were in bloom dur-
ing July and August. They all showed their
flowering spikes within three weeks of each
other, and developed into magnificent plants.

Nicotiana Sanderae is seen at its best grown
as a pot plant, for the colour of the petals
varies little, and the flowers appear to develop
to their best. The only fault I find with it as
a pot plant is its variation in habit, for while
one plant is perfect in form, another will throw
up a long spike 5 or 0 feet in length, with
strong straggling side shoots.

If the type generally seen in illustrations

could be firmly fixed, I consider it would be
one of the best plants introduced of recent years
for conservatory decoration. As a plant fur
winter decoration in the conservatory, it gives
great promise. I had a batch flowering splen-
didly in a cool conservatory about the first
week in September, and with another Later baton
I hope to maintain a succession of flowers all
through the winter. For cut purposes the
flowers are splendid, the colour showing well
in artificial light. Chas. Craig, Gardener to A.
Joyce, Esq., Rockland House, Outremont, Mon-
treal.

The Week's Wor>Ei.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BntKiNsHAw, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Muscat Grapes. — The structure containing these
should be got in readiness for forcing the vines
without delay, in order to allow a sufficient period
for the proper development and finish of the
bunches before Autumn. The Canon Hall variety
of Muscat requires great attention to detail in
order to develop it to perfection. If the vines are
young, say, three, four, or five years of age, tlie
rods should be brought down to a horizontal
position, in order to obtain an even " break " on
the leading shoots, but the buds on the spurs or
side growths will generally start away satisfac-
torily. The leading shoot of the main rod is often
not cut sufficiently short at pruning time, with the
object of furnishing the vinery with permanent
bearing canes in as short a time as is possible.
When this is practised the canes will often ' ' break ' '
with great vigour at the top of the rod, leaving the
lower buds of the shoot very feeble. Two to
three feet of new growth, according to the
strength and the ripeness of the young wood, is
ample to allow each year. The night temperature
of the vinery when forcing is begun should be
about 50° or 52"^, and during the daytime 55" to
57°. Well syringe the rods with water, as this
will tend to make the buds swell and burst into
growth.

Early Cherries form an agreeable adjunct on the
dessert table. A few trees should be introduced
into a cool house, and forcing very slowly com-
menced, as these trees are most impatient of fne
heat. 40" to 45° at nights, with 5° degrees higher
in the day, being all they require. The trees
should receive a rich top-dressing of loam and
bone-meal prior to forcing in order to encourage
the feeding roots near to the surface. Abundance
of ventilation should be given, and if the ventilators
are allowed to remain open a trifle at night time it
will be beneficial. A. sharp watch should be kept
for green and black fly, which are amongst the
chief enemies of the Sweet Cherry.

Grapes in bottles. — These should be examined
daily, and any decayed berries on the bunches
removed. The end of the stem should always
remain in water, and by keeping the bunches in
the dark as much as is possible the berries will
retain their colour for a long time. An equable
temperature of 45° should be maintained. Lady
Downes and Black .\licante are two excellent late
keeping varieties.

further use as table plants. The tops, however,
may be rooted by the method known as "ringing."
Take a sharp knife and make two or three cuts
upwards in the bark, and a little into the hard
wood immediately under the lower leaves, after-
wards binding some moss around the portion
which has been cut. Keep the moss in a moist
condition always. When roots have been luade,
the stem may be severed and the rooted plants
again potted. Thus treated they will soon
prove useful again.

Aealyphas. — Cuttings of young wood of Acaly-
phas should now be inserted singly in small pots,
and if placed in heat they will soon make roots,
and become useful plants for furnishing in a small
state. The foliage will have a much better colour
if the plants are grown in a somewhat cool a.tmo-
sphere, and are fully exposed to the influence of
the sun ; especially should this treatment be
afforded in summer. The foliage will then be
comparatively hard, and, apart from the improved
colour, be capable of withstanding the adverse
conditions in the dwelling-rooms. A. Macafeeana
and A. musaica are two of the best varieties for
the purpose mentioned above.

Fittonias. — Where large vases or the base of
screens have to be filled with plants and edged
with dwarf growing species, Fittonias will be
found to be very useful. Shallow pans may be
used for propagating the cuttings, and when the
latter have made roots tie them round with damp
moss and place them together in shallow boxes,,
and they will be convenient for use when required.
This is a much better method than that of growing
them in pots. Large quantities can be accom-
modated in boxes and be kept within a limited
space.

Hydrangea paniculata grandiflora. — Some of the
plants growing in pots and having well-matnred
their growths may now be pruned hard back be-
fore they commence to make new growth. If very
fine heads of bloom are required it will also be
necessary to thin out the young shoots after
growth has commenced, leaving four or six of the
strongest to each plant. If medium-sized trusses
of bloom are preferred all that is necessary is to
allow a greater number of shoots to develop.
Place the plants in an atmospheric temperature of
55" to 60°. -\^pply occasional waterings with
liquid manure during the growing season. Though
the above is often spoken of as Hydrangea panicu-
lata there is a considerable difference between.
H. paniculata and the variety grandiflora.

Violets in frames should now be yielding a
wealth of flowers. Keep them free from decayed
leaves and lightly stir the surface soil occasionally.
If the soil is at all dry afford a good soaking with
soot water and diluted liquid manure from the
cowsheds. On fine, warm days remove tlie lights
entirely for a few hours. Free ventilation at all
times is essential for Violets growing in frames.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to F. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Clivias [Imantophyllutns). — Where sufficient
plants are grown for the purpose, they may be
had in flower during the next three months by
introducing a few plants at intervals into an
atmospheric temperature of 55° to 60^. If
grown in six inch pots they are useful for house
decoration, their richly coloured flowers and
graceful foliage rendering them very effective.
The present is a good time to increase the stock
either by sowing seeds or by division. Provide
perfect drainage and pot the bulbs in rich loamy
soil with the addition of bone meal. An
abundant supply of water is essential during
the growing season.

Plants for Table Decoration. — Any of these
which may have been used for decorating the
dwelling rooms will now need attention.
Codiseums (Crotons) will have lost some of their
lower leaves, and in consequence they are of no

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
B.Trt., Burford, Surrey.

Zygopctaliims. — The present is a good time to
repot Zygopetalum Mackayii, Z. crinitum, '/..
triste, Z. Frotheroeianum, Z. brachypetalum,
Z. Clayii, Z. Murrayanum, Z. Perrenoudii, Z.
Burkei, &c., if any of the plants require to be
moved. Good fibrous loam, chopped sphagnum
moss, and plenty of broken crocks, if well mixed
together, will form !i suitable compost for them
to root in. The atmosphere of the Cattleya or
intermediate house will suit them, and they will
require plenty of water at the root when grow-
ing and rooting freely. '/.. maxillare thrives
best when fastened to an upright piece of Fern
stem and allowed to climb around it. A shaded
part of the cool house will suit this species.

il/rtsrfcrfl//;fls.— The present is a good time to divide
old plants, or to afford more root room to the Chi-
ma^ra section of Masdevallias, which includes M.
Chimsera, M. bella. M. Backhouseana, M. Wallisii,
M. Winniana, M. Houtteana, M. radiosa, M.
trinema (Lowii), and M. erythrochxle. These
plants should be grown in shallow teak-wood
baskets, and as their flowers are produced from
descending stems, no crocks must be used for
drainage, but a few tough, well-dried pieces of
fern rhizome may be placed across the bottom bars
of the baskets to prevent the compost from falling
through . A moderate quantity of peat and sphag-
num-moss well mixed together, but not com-
pressed very tightly, will aflbrd a suitable rooting
medium. During the next two or three months

February 3, 1906,]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

71

repotted plants should be suspended well up to
the roof glass in a shaded position in the inter-
mediate house. Afford water with the fine sprayer
whenever the surface of the compost appears to
be in the least dry, and frequently sponge the
under-sides of the leaves to prevent the lodgment
of red spider. The pure white flowered M.
tovarensis may also be repotted, and for cultural
directions the reader may refer to p. 14 in the
Gardeners' Chronicle for January 6, where a de-
scription was given of a method of culture which
has been attended with great success. Any plants
of the M. Harryana and M. Veitchii sections, or
of the dwarf growing species that require fresh
compost to root in, should be given attention at
once. Well-rooted specimens in a healthy con-
dition that were repotted last autumn should be
given increased supplies of water, but not kept
in a saturated condition at the root. Allow
the compost about each plant to become properly
dry previous to affording more water. The warmer
end of the cool house is the best place for them.
Do not damp between the pots when the weather
is dull and wet, because an excess of atmospheric
moisture at this season often causes black mark-
ings and spotting on the foliage.

In the intcrmciiiate house plants of Platyclinis
glumacea are fast pushing up their rosy-coloured
growths, and they should be elevated as near to
the light as possible. From the present time until
the pseudo-bulbs are thoroughly matured, afford
the plants plenty of water at the root, and on all
bright mornings well syringe the under sides of
the leaves. It is also well to sponge them occa-
sionally, as red-spider is very apt to make an
appearance. The proper time to repot plants of
this species is when they commence to grow, or as
soon as the flowers fade. They will root and
grow freely in the ordinary Orchid compost.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew . Gardener tu the Karl of I'LVMOUTH,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Herbaceous Plants. — Though September is un-
doubtedly the best month in the year in which to
undertake the work of making new borders, for
herbaceous plants, and the renovation or the re-
arrangement of old ones, circumstances often make
it necessary to postpone these operations until a
later date. Failing the autumn there is no better
time than the present to carry them out. The
weather in February is usually open and mild,
which will enable the plants to get sufficiently
established in their altered position before the
advent of the keen March winds, which otherwise
might be detrimental to them. It is essential to
prepare the soil in a thorough manner when making
a new border, for once made it should remain un-
disturbed for a number of years. If the ground is
not naturally drained, artificial drainage must be
provided, as it is impossible to cultivate herbaceous
plants well unless the soil is in the %ery best con-
dition. Trench the border to the depth of three
feet, and remove and replace with rich loam any
soil of poor quality. When doing this add a
dressing of basic slag, and a plentiful supply of
well-matured farmyard manure. Where new
borders are made in front of strong growing trees
and shrubs, precautions must be taken to prevent
the roots of these trees getting into the border.
This can be done to a certain extent by providing a
space between the shrubs and border, which can be
deeply trenched every year and all roots removed.

Although much might be said in favour of
borders on which the effect of the flowers is en-
hanced by the dark green foliage, and the bold
appearance of shrubs as a background, yet when
the opportunity ofi'ers itself, almost equally charm-
ing effects can be obtained by a flower border
against a wall . Whether of stone or brick the wall
can be quickly clothed with appropriate growth in
such a manner that it will soon become an excel-
lent background, and there will be no danger of
encroaching roots, which, no matter the pre-
cautions taken, are always a menace to the best in-
terests of the inmates of the border. In planting,
avoid what is termed the "dotting" system of
arrangement, and in preference adopt that of
boldly grouping, but not stiffly, the plants in
numbers, ranging from three to twenty or so,
according to the habit of the plant and the size of
the border. Borders are often spoilt by the use
of too many kinds of plants. It is better to plant in
groups, and limit oneself to fewer kinds. The
habit, and the height of the plants must be con-
sidered Id arranging them, and though generally
4he taller growing ones should be placed towards

the back of the border, do not be afraid to allow
some of them of medium height to approach the
front and vice versa, groups of lesser growth to re-
cede amongst the taller ones. A free and natural
style is far more effective than a stiff " banking "
arrangement graduated in regular heights from
back to front.

Arrangement of colour. — In the matter of colour,
very much depends upon the individual taste, but
still there are certain rules regarding colours that
cannot lightly be disregarded. As, however, it is
intended to return to this subject in a future note
(probably in September) it will suffice for the pre-
sent to simply state that it is preferable in bringing
colours together in a border of herbaceous plants
to endeavour to create harmonies, and leave for-
mations of contrasts to beds by themsehes. There
are certain colours like red and yellow, which
retain their intensity, no matter from what distance
they are regarded, and again colours like blue,
which require to be \ iewed close at hand to be
appreciated fully — facts to be remembered when
arranging them. In arranging and planting the
"herbaceous border," no one now thinks of
merely including plants that strictly come under
the category of hardy herbaceous plants. They
of course predominate, but as the object is to
achieve the best possible effect, Roses, tender
bedding plants, hardy and half-hardy annuals,
and bi-annuals are all used, and with decided
advantage. Even many of the numerous flower-
ing shrubs can be employed provided the
border is of sufficient size to accommodate them.
Therefore spaces should be left in appropriate
positions in the border for planting at the proper
time such plants as Dahlia, Hollyhock, Pentste-
mon, Antirrhinum, Salvia patens, S. splendens,
S. farinacea, S. Horminum, Lobelia (the Car-
dinalis type and L. pumila). Gladioli in variety.
Carnation, Pink, Marigold (African and French),
Delphinium " Queen of the Blues," Phlox Drum-
mondii. Scabious, Canna, Calceolaria amplexi-
caulis, Nicotiana Sanderae, and Pelargonium, and
also for sowing Lavatera splendens, Love-in-the-
Mist, &c.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. .\. Cooic, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,

Bart., Leonardslee, Susses.
Planting. — January has been wet enough in this
locality, over 51 inches of rain having fallen. Any
planting that has still to be done should be pushed
forward in the event of the weather becoming
suitable. Obtain some dry soil if possible, such
as that from the potting bench, and mix it with
mortar liibris from old buildings, and with a mix-
ture of this nature the work of planting may be
carried on pretty comfortably. Work this dry-
soil in among the roots as much as possible, in
order that the soil about the roots may be made
firm, but on no account should wet soil be rammed.
Espalier Trees. — Examine the supports of espa-
lier trees, and renew any that have become defec-
tive. Straight young Larch poles make admirable
supports, and should be driven in straight with a
mallet, and not closer together than is necessary for
the support of the tree. Ifthese stakes be dipped in
creosote before use they will last much longer in
good condition. Cut off the upper ends level by
means of a saw. Bamboo canes may be tied to
these with tarred string, in horizontal positions.
When the work has been well done trees trained
in this manner have a very good appearance.
When pruning and training are done rake over
the surface ground, dress the trees to kill insects
or fungi, and then fork in a little manure if neces-
sary, and leave the ground as tidy as possible.
Let the label denoting the variety be placed in a
position where it will be easily seen.

Apricots. — Where\er there are worn-out trees
of Apricot, young trees should be planted in some
position in the same garden, for the fruits are
among the most delicious of those available for
dessert. Apricot trees require a free loam, and
plenty of lime rubble, which mixture should be
very often renewed. The wood of Apricot trees
may be very easily damaged, and if this occurs
"gumming" very often follows. Nearly all
the necessary pruning (stopping and disbudding)
should therefore be done by means of the thumb
and finger, in the early stages of growth. Many
mistakes are made in cropping these trees too
heavily, and mother mistake is that of allow-
ing the roots to become dry. Established trees
should now be pruned by reducing the old
spurs if necessary, leaving several flower buds and a
leading wood bud. Lay in a good supply of young

growths and take care they are not tied taut
against a nail or wire, nor bruised with a hammer
during the operation. Young trees that have made
strong growths must be reduced in order to get
a well-balanced start ; these trees are generally
framed on the fan system, and should a branch
die, the branches left can be unfastened and re-
distributed ; stop all holes and crevices in the
wall in order to destroy vermin. Let the pro-
tective material be held in readiness for use when
the flowers commence to open.

The Loganberry, Wineberry, and American Black-
berries may still be planted.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. GiubuN, Gai"t!eiier to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Polalos. — Do not lose any favourable oppor-
tunity that may occur for planting the earliest
crop out of doors, on a warm border sloping to
the south, and if possible in front of vineries or
other hot-houses. It is assumed that the soil has .
been well trenched and liberally manured with
well rotted material, in order that the young
tubers may acquire size as early as possible.
Cover the sets with light soil, procuring some if
the natural soil is of a heavy nature. May Queen.
Ringleader, and Sharpe's Victor are three reliable
and good varieties, and providing they have
sprouted well in the usual way should gi\e a
return towards the end of May. Protection from
frost at night will be necessary, as the young
growths are very tender at the time they push-
through the soil. Loose, dry bracken or straw
will protect them materially, but it is safer to-
make a temporary frame work and run down a
blind over this at night time.

Peas. — The earliest sowing of Peas may now be
made on a warm border, but as in the case of
Potatos the soil must not be interfered with until
it is dry enough to be worked without it sticking,
or more harm than good will result. In late
localities, or in others where the soil is of a heavy
nature, it will be advisable to sow a round-seeded
variety at this date to make certain that rotting
of the seed will not take place through excessive
damp. The marrowfat varieties, which are far
and away the best, need to be sown in boxes,
and started into growth indoors, and if such are
transplanted early in March, they should come
into bearing as early as the others. Sutton's
Ringleader is an excellent variety of the former
type, while Early Giant, growing also about 4 feet
in height, is amongst the best early marrowfats.
Chelsea Gem and Green Gem are two excellent
dwarf-growing varieties that may be sown at less
than 2 feet apart between the lines. Oir small
narrow borders, when the lines are drawn, cover
the seed with leaf mould or other light soil, . ^

Spinach. — A sowing of Spinach should be made
as soon as possible on an exposed border. Like
all other early vegetables Spinach succeeds best
where the soil has been thoroughly prepared, and
is in good condition to receive the seed.

Jerusalem Artichokes. — The tubers being perfectly
hardy, the crop may be planted without delay.
Assuming the soil to be in good heart, and that it
has been deeply worked, let the tubers be planted
in lines 3 feet apart, and allow i to 2 feet between
them. Use good-sized sets in preference to
small ones. The newer white variety is an im-
provement on the old purple one, and should be
planted in preference to the latter.

Carrots. — It is rather early yet to sow carrots,
but a sheltered spot, if available, may be made use
of for raising a bed of the earliest variety at hand.
Dig the ground well and sow the seeds in lines
drawn at 6 inches apart, being careful not to cover
the seeds too deeply. Use light soil for covering,
and gently press it down with the back of a rake
as a finish. Paris Market is a good type to sow at
this date, together with Inimitable Forcing, which
also turns in very quickly, to be followed with
Early Nantes and Early Gem, all of which are
first-rate varieties. If a rough frame can be spared
for this crop a gathering will be obtainable at
least a fortnight earlier. Make successional sow-
ings of Peas, Potatos and Carrots in frames as
required.

General Remarks. — As fastasthe ground is cleared
of Broccoli, &c., make every effort to get the
same prepared for a future crop by trenching if
possible, or at least digging the soil and manuring
it to suit the next crop. The greater surface that
can be exposed to the influence of the weather the
better it will be for the crops.

72

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

[Febkuaky 3, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as spedmem aitd plants
/or miHiing, should he addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
CommuniuUions should be wruten on one side oni.v of
THE PAPER, scnl as early in the week as possible, ami duly
signed by the un-itcr. // desired, the signature li^ill not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return tinused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himsell
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations. - The Editor n'ill be glad to receive andto select
photographs or draadngs, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, Src. : Out he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Ke-wspat>ers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local tiews.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURD.\Y,
TUESD.'W,

FRIDAY,

S.^TURDAY,

(Society Franfaise d' Horticulture
Feb. 3 ] de Londres meet.

[German Gardeners' Society m-et.
, ( National Amateur Gardeners' As-
1-eb. b I sociation meet.

(Annual Meeting of the Royal Gar-
deners' Orplian Fund and elec-
tion of Candidates at Simpson's
Restaurant, loi, Strand, London,
V at 3 p.m.
Feb. 10 Dutch Gardeners' Society meet.

Average Temperature tor the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 39-3".

Actual Temperatures:—

1.0-SDOJi.— Wednesday, Jan. 31 (6 p.m.) : Max. 46" ; Min.
33".
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— r/zti«rfay. Feb. 1 (10
A.M.): Bar., 303; Temp., 47°; ICeaZ/ier- Slight
rain.
Provinces.— Weiincsrfny, Jan. 31 (G p.m.) : Max. 50"
Ireland East ; Min. 43° Cambridge.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY NEXT-

Saleof Roses, Shrubs, Perennials, loo cases of Japanese
Lilies, &c., at Stevens' Rooms, King Street, Covent
Garden, W.C.

MOND.\y NEXT—

Hardy Border and Herbaceous Plants. i,8oo Roses,
Lilies, Azaleas, &c., at 07 and 63, Cheapside, E.G., by
Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

-WEDNKSD.\Y NEXT- u j , ,

Herbaceous and border plants, Liliums, Hardy plants
at I ; 3,000 Roses, Palms, Azaleas, Rhododendrons. I'ic.,
at 3, at 67 & 63, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris.

FRIDAY NEXT— , , , , J , „

:,8oo Roses, Liliums, Hardy border plants and bulbs.
Azaleas, Greenhouse plants, &c., by Protheroe & Morris,
at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G., at 12.

FRIDAY NEXT— ,^ , ^ .

Imported Odontoglo.isum Crispum and Cattleya TrianK,
choice estabUshed Orchids, Sec, at 67 and 63, Cheapside,
E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.30.

We have from time to time had
Nomen- occasion to notice the vagaries of
clatupe. some of the American botanists
who have of late years been em-
ployed in executing permutations in nomencla-
ture. These changeshavebeenmadeforreasons
•which doubtless seem valid to some naturalists,
and so long as they -were confined to strictly
botanical books, we could look on with amaze-
ment, perhaps, but as horticulturists we were not
justified in making any protest. If the botanists
liked to indulge in such vagaries it was no con-
cern of ours, and, however erratic their methods,
the rules of synonymy and of publication
render it easy to trace any particular plant
under whatever name it may be masquerading.
The cyclone is now, however, approaching our
own territories.

Our valued correspondent, Mr. Smith, of
Newry, writes : —

"Much has been said, from time to time, about the rnis-
chievous practice of multiplying names. The following

have been taken from a current American catalogue, and I
imagine are for the most part quite new, and inasmuch as

they are given without any synonyms, further comment
would appear to be unnecessary : —

Veronica virginica is now called Leptandra

Liatris ,, ,, Lacenaria

Gillenia stipulacea Porteranthus

Lysimichia ,. ,, Steironema

Dielytra ,, ,, Bicuculla

Goodyera ,, ,, Peramia

Amianthemum ... ,, ,, Chrosperma

Spira?a aruncus ... ,, ,, Aruncus Aruncus

Darlingtonia ,, Chrysanthera

Hales a ,, Mohrodendron

Magnolia ,, ,, Adelia

Calycanthus ,, ,, Butneria

Ilex verticillatus ... ,, ,, Decodon

Andromeda ligustrina ,, ,, Xolisma

,, calyculata ,, „ Chamoedaphne

Ledum buxifolium ... ,, ,, Dendrium

Ampelopsis ,, ,, Parthenocissus

Laurus Benzoin ... ., ,, Benzoin Benzoin"

It is now time to protest, and to proclaim our
allegiance, as we have done often before, to the
nomenclature adopted in the 7;i(ff.v Kemcnsis
and in the works, such as the Kew Hand-
lists, which have been framed in accordance
with it. It is not that the Index is infallible —
it does not pretend to be. But as a general
standard it is the best that we are ever likely
to see. No alterations in it should be lightly
tolerated, and only monographers and specialists
dealing at first hand with particular groups
should be allowed to tamper with its pro-
nouncements. The Botanical Congress, held
at Vienna last summer, revised the " Lois "
put forth by the late Alphonse de Candolle, and
generally adhered to by European botanists.
The Congress, we believe, negatived many of
the proposals of the extreme neo-American
school. But until the Report is issued we
cannot say which of the names mentioned by
Mr. Smith will be put under the ban.

A garden-catalogue is not drawn up with the
precision and accuracy of a botanical mono-
graph, so that there is no means of ascertaining
in an ordinary garden-list who is responsible
for any particular name and where and when
it was published. In those matters the botanist
has a great advantage over the gardener.

But thei-e are worse grievances than changes
of nomenclature consequent on differences of
opinion on matters of technical detail. There
are, we are told, names which may be found in
certain catalogues, and in certain gardens,
which have nothing to justify their existence.
They do not occur in the Index Kewcnsis or
its Supplements, nor, so far as appears, in any
monograph.

In one case a correspondent tells us he found
in English gardens the same species of Daphne
under seven different names.

We have before us a marked catalogue con-
taining scores of names which are not in the
Kcw Hand-lists nor in the Indsx. Such names,
if genuine, should be authenticated by the name
of the author, the place and time of publication,
and other details such as botanists are accus-
tomed to give when they describe what they
believe to be new plants, otherwise they are
open to suspicion.

Royal Horticultural Sooiety. — We

would remind readers that there will be no meet-
ing of the Coinmittee on Tuesday next, but that
the annual general meeting will be held on the
following Tuesday, February 13.

Flowering of the Hazel. — Our record
showing the expansion of the mile flowers is earlier
than usual, viz., January 22. The earliest date for
several years is January Z2, the latest February 21.
The bushes observed are the same each year,
and are in proximity one to the other.

National Chrysanthemum Society. — We
are informed that the annual general meeting of
the members of this society will take place at
Carr's Restaurant, 265, Strand, W.C.,. on Mon-
day, February 5, next, at 7 o'clock in the evening.

Charles E. Shea. Esq., president, in the chair
and the usual business pertaining to the annual
meeting will be transacted. The General Secre-
tary (Jyyo Icm.), is Mr. G. R. Dean, S, Avonwick
Road, Heston, Hounslow.

The Late Mr. O. T. Hemsley. — Tlie
funeral of Mr. O. T. Hemsley, Superintendent of
the Government Gardens, Lahore, who died at the
Mayo Hospital on January 6 last, took place the
same afternoon. It was, says a Lahore paper, a
military one, Mr. HeiMSLEY having belonged to the
Punjab Light Horse, of which he was Quarter-
master-Sergeant. The Corps paid a worthy
tribute to a devoted Volunteer. The Commanding
Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Grey, the Adjutant,
Captain Cheyne, Major Pease and Lieutenant
Percy Brown attended ; and Major Robertson,
Private Secretary to His Honour the Lieutenant-
Governor, and Captain Wright, of the ist Punjab
Volunteer Rifles, were also present. The charger
of the deceased was led behind the remains, and
the Police Band supplied the solemn music for the
procession to the grave. The Rev. K. G. Foster
conducted the service, and the firing party con-
sisted of Light Horsemen. Sir Charles and Lady
RivAZ sent a cross and wreath, and similar floral
offerings were brought by Colonel Grey, Major
Robertson, Captain Cheyne, and many others, in-
cluding Mr. A. PiNTO, the Acting Superintendent,
and the native staff of the Gardens. We are re-
quested to insert the following note: — " Mr. and
Mrs. BoTTiN-G Hemsley and Miss Hemsley are
deeply grateful for the appreciative and sympathetic
announcements in the gardening Press relating to
the great loss they have sustained in the deatli of
their only son and brother. These notices have
brought them so many letters of condolence and
expressions of sympathy from friends far and
near that it is impossible to reply to them in-
dividually, and they avail themselves of this
means of conveying their heartfelt tlianks to one
and all.

The Fruiterers- Company. — At a dinner
given by this compa'- • at De Keyser's Hotel,
Blackfriars. on the 25th ult., Mr. G. Bunvari),
the Master, presided. In the course of his remarks
he stated that he was the first Master of the Com-
pany who understood the art of fruit-growing!
Mr. Eagleton, the secretary, said the Fruiterers'
Company, in its desire to advance the art of fruit-
growing, had come to the conclusion that it was
of no use to try to teach new metliods to grown-up
people. Their efforts in the future were to be in
the direction of instilling into the young mind new
ideas and up-to-date plans whereby fruit could
be grown to perfection in this country and a satis-
factory profit made. Pamphlets had been issued,
but now, on the suggestion of the Master and his
gready-gifted daughter, Miss Bunyard, they were
about to venture out in a new direction. A series
of five charts, or diagrams, was about to be issued,
illustrating the cidture of fruit, and these would be
hung in elementary schools. The idea had already
been approved by upwards of a dozen county
councils, and, later, they hoped to issue some
thousands of sets.

All about Sweet Peas. — Mr. Robert
Sydenham has lately published the third edition
of All About SkvcI Peas. It is a booklet with a use-
ful description of every known variety and instruc-
tion how to grow it. It contains a list of the best

varieties for exhibition and other purposes, as well

as information for the amateur or general grower.

The newest varieties of Sweet Peas are, of course,

mentioned.

Calathea Allouya. — This is a disappointing
plant. An excellent figure in the Tropical Agri-
ciilliirist for December last naturally suggests that
it would form a good substitute for the Potato in
tropical countries. If the foliage were concealed
the observer might fancy he had to do with

Fkbruakv 3, 1S06.;

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

"Northern Star," so close is the resemblance in
the mode of growth, but Mr. Macmillan, who
furnishes the description, reports the results of
several trials, which were all unsatisfactory, and
so long as we have, says he, the " Sweet Potato "
(Batatas) there is no need to trouble about the
Calathea or even the ordinary Potato.

Celebes. — Little is known in this country of
the vegetation and productions of this island.
We may, therefore, call attention to the " Reisen
in Celebes," by Paul and Fritz Sarasin, recently
published at Wiesbaden (Kreidel), in two volumes.
The text is in German ; it is copiously illustrated
by excellent illustrations (some coloured), which
show the nature of the country, the general
character of the vegetation, the appearance of the
inhabitants, their dress, and their weapons. There
is no separate list of plants. The book may be had
of Messrs. Williams Sc Norgate,

NYMPH/1E.4S. — The catalogue, in Swedish, of
Mr. M. P. Andersen, of Jonkoping, contains
details of some new hardy Water Lilies such as
the miniature flowered N. fennica of Mela, and
others, which would interest cultivators of these
plants.

A French Agricultural Journal. — The

first number of the eiglith yearly volume of Lc
Mois Sciciitijiquc : Lc Moiivemeiit Agricolc, includes a
review of MM. De Riviere & Lecq's book on
Agriculture in Algiers and Tunis ; of that by De
M. Kayser on Agricultural Microbiology, and of
various publications on allied subjects. These
reviews are \aluable, being written by specialists
in the various branches of agriculture under con,-
sideration.

The ENGLISHWOMAN'S Year Book and
Directory for 1906. — Miss Janes is again
the editor of this volume, which has become
practically indispensable to every working woman.
The subject matter includes Education, Employ-
ments and Professions, Industrial Pursuits, Science,
Literature, Art, Sports, Philanthropy, &c. ; all
from the standpoint of woman's employments and
interests. We note that in addition to agriculture
and horticulture and florists' work the question of
Settlements for women is carefully considered ; in
fact every effort has been made to keep the Year
Book up to date. The publishers are Messrs.
Adam and Charles Black, Soho Square, London.

Dendrobiums at Gatton Park. — It is
rumoured that the Dendrobiums in the collec-
tion of Jeremiah Colman, Esq. (gr. Mr. Bound),
are better than ever this season, and it is intended
to make a fine display at the Royal Horticultural
Society's meeting on February 13. The annual
general meeting of the society at Vincent Square
will be held on the same day. Diplomas are also
offered on the same date for Laslia anceps (white
varieties), Cattleya Trianjei and hybrids, and
Cypripedium villosum (including Boxalli), and
hybrids of that section, consequently, with inci-
dental exhibits, the show should be a good one.

The Writers' and Artists' Year-Book.
— This is a directory for igo6 for the use of
writers, artists, and photographers. It is less
bulky than the familiar Williiig's Press Guide, yet
contains not merely addresses of papers and
magazines where MSS. and illustrations may
be accepted, but many hints for intending con-
tributors. The Year-Book will prove serviceable
also to " the ever-increasing host of illustrators,"
but editors of popular publications who are already
surfeited with contributions may not always wel-
come the additional work this may bring upon
them. The publishers of this directory are Messrs.
Adam and Charles Black, Soho Square, London.

The Gardens at Udaipur. — We have re-
cei\ed, from Mr. T. H. Story, the Annual Report
on the Gardens of His Highness the Maharana
Fatah Singhji Bahadur, G.C.S.L, of Udaipur,
Meywar, for 1904-5. Plague, rinderpest, and a

severe frost were serious drawbacks to work during
the season. The frost was particularly fatal to
Mangos, Opuntias, Tamarinds, and other plants,
and spoiled the lawns. The garden looked in
most places like mid-winter in Europe, and sus-
tained a loss that will take many years to repair.
At the Observatory from 10° to 12° of frost were
registered. This occurred in January, 1905.

Aponogetonace/e. — .V monograph of these
plants has been published by Mr. Krause, with
the assistance of Dr. Engler. Twenty-two species
of Aponogeton were described, including the well-
known Ouvirandra fenestralis, which is transferred
to that genus. The plants are obviously closely
allied to the Potamogetons, Alismaceae, and
Juncaginaceae. The name Aponogeton is sup-
posed to be derived from the name of an old bath,
"Apone," near Padua. The species are mostly
South African, with some Australian. They were
first raised with a distinct order by Planchon.

Eight for Nine. — The printers of one of the
American trade papers have, it is stated, struck
because the master-printers do not see their way
to accede to the proposal for an eight-hour day for
nine hours' pay. There should be give and take
in these matters, but the printers seem to prefer
taking to giving.

Sweet Peas. — It is said that the stock of
Sweet Peas of the best sorts is rather low this
season, and that some of the better kintls will in
consequence be difficult to obtain in qu.iutity.

Forest Flora of New South Wales. —
Mr. Maiden has just issued Vol. II., Part 7, of his
valuable work : The forest Flora of New South
Wales. This instalment, which forms Part XVII.
of the entire work, includes the descriptions and
plates of Casuarina stricta (Drooping She-Oak).
Eucalyptus numerosa (River White Gum) and
Flindersia australis (Native Teak).

School of Gardening. — Miss May Crooke,
F.R.H.S,, late Instructor in Horticulture at Lady
Warwick College, Studley Castle, and Lady
Warwick Hostel, Reading, has obtained a suitable
garden for horticultural instruction at Bredons
Norton, near Tewkesbury. Miss Crooke will take
a limited number of students, either resident
or non-resident. The garden is fully-equipped
with glass-houses, mushroom-house, heated pits
and a fine selection of fruit trees, and will
afford facilities for horticultural instruction in all
branches.

The "Bamboo" Magazine. — We note the
appearance of the first number of •• Le'- Bamhou,
son Etude, sa Culture, son Emploi," founded and
issued by M. Jean Houzeau de Lehaie, Ermit-
age, Mons, Belgium. It is proposed to publish
the magazine monthly, and its pages are to be
wholly devoted to papers concerning the Bamboos,
considered from their scientific, horticultural, and
commercial aspects. Communications will be
printed in Latin, English, French, German,
Italian, and Esperanto, and will be contributed
by specialists from all parts of the world. Illus-
trations are included in the pages. The opening
number contains an article on Phyllostachys
pubescens, on the Japanese method of planting,
on the fructification of Bamboos in Europe, and
kindred subjects, all connected with this sub-
family. We wish success to the enterprising
venture, which is addressed to all interested in
Bamboos.

W. H. Smith & Sons Annual. — A publica-
tion for the use of newsagents, containing spaces
for a record of orders for various publications, and
much information, profitable and interesting, for
those to whom it is specially addressed. A portrait
of the late Rt. Hon. W. H. Smith, M.P., serves
as frontispiece. The same firm also issue some
handsome samples of fancy headings for commer-
cial stationery. For further particulars address
to Amberley House, 12, Norfolk Street, Strand, or
to the Works, Fetter Lane, E.G.

Flowers in Season. — We have, for several
seasons past, received from the well-known firm of
Messrs. William Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, London, S.W., flowers of. a number of
named varieties of the florists' Primula. Those
submitted to us during the past week showed
careful selection, both in regard to colour and type
of flower. The colours were of a wide range,
from the white alba magnifica to the so-called
blue of Imperial Blue, which is, however, more
correctly to be described as lavender. There were
also double-flowered forms, and still others of
the fimbriated type, whose petals are pleasingly
crenated. The old double white, or to give it its
catalogued name, alba flora plena, is still one of
the most desirable of all Primulas, for it is in-
valuable for furnishing a supply of cut flowers for
cutting when white flowers are scarce. There are
also blush rose, and still deeper coloured varieties
of this useful type. Comet (carmine crimson).
Countess (blush pink), Fulgens (scarlet), and
Ruby Queen (magenta crimson) are four good
varieties of the ordinary florists' strain.

Hortus Vilmorinianus — an appendix to
the volume for 1904 of the Bulletin de la Socicte
Bolanique de Frayue — is devoted to the syste-
matic enumeration of the trees, shrubs, and her-
baceous plants cultivated in the garden of M.
Philippe de Vilmorin and in the trial grounds
adjacent, at Verrieres le Buisson, near Paris.
The catalogue fills, with the index, over 371 pages
— a detail we mention for the purpose of giving
some idea of the richness of the collection. The
list has been very carefully drawn up and richly
illustrated, and abounds in relevant annotations.
The preface contributed by Prof. Flahault, of
Muntpellier, is a very interesting autobio-
graphical sketch, introducing some account of
Decaisne which will be read with interest by
those who were fortunate enough to be ac-
quainted with that great botanist. The book
before us, says M. Fl.4HAULT, is " the work of
a Vilmorin. ... He [the author] is the suc-
cessor of those who for a century and a half
have never ceased to associate the requirements
of practice with scientific truth." M. Philippe
de Vilmorin contributes in an introduction
some account of the collections which he traces
back to the 18th century, and sketches the
additions made by successive members of the
Vilmorin family. The collections of Conifers
and of Alpine plants are very rich. Their
nomenclature is according to the Index
7\e-iiiensis, and their arrangement in accordance
W'ith the Genera Plantarum of Bentham and
PIooper. The catalogue was prepared as a
consequence of the visit of the members of the
Botanical Society of France to Verrieres on the
occasion of the fiftieth anniversary of the
Society in 1904 ; and is in every way worthy cf
the occasion and of the present representative of
the family which has done so much for horti-
culture and agriculture. The assistance of M.
Mottet is gracefully acknowledged.

To Help the Charities. — The tenth annual
Bohemian concert organised by the Geo. Monro
Ltd. Concert Committee will be held in the
Queen's Hall, Langham Place, on Thursday,
February 22, 1906. The proceeds of these con-
certs are devoted to charities. The amount given
last year to deserving institutions was ^35 14s.,
and of this sum the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent
Institution received ten guineas. Tickets may be
obtained from the Hon. Sec, Mr. H. Baker, 42,
King Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.

Seed Lists Received. — We have received the list
of seeds offered in exchange from the Botanic Gardens,
Paris. Applications for any of the items should be
addressed, as soon as possible, to M. le Directeur du
Museum d'Histoire Naturelle (Service de la Culture),
Rue Cuvier, 57, Paris. — Catalogue des Graines Recoltees
en 1905, Villa Thuret, Antibes. Many interesting
seeds are offered for which application should be made
before March 1, to le Jardinier en Chef, M. B. Texier,
or to the Directeur, M. Georges Poirault.

74

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 3, 1906.

LEGISLATION WITH RESPECT
TO PLANT DISEASES CAUSED BY
FUNGI.

(Concluded from page 53.)

With regard to the well-known potato disease
(Phytophthora infestans), it may be that the
special difficulty mentioned by Mr. Massee
exists in this case. But the matter is not so
hopeless as to justify this writer's words as
to the impossibility of legislation in connection
with the disease. It would be the duty of the
Government of a country where this disease is
unknown to endeavour, by passing a law pro-
hibiting the importation of potatos from a coun-
try where the disease was known to exist, to
preserve their country's immunity. This duty
has just been performed by the Government of
New South Wales, who are trying to protect
potatos in their country from this very disease
by a law passed in March, 1905, prohibiting
the importation of potatos from New Zealand,
where the potato disease has lately appeared.

Turning now to the general question of legis-
lation and the control of plant diseases caused
by fungi, it must of course be admitted that in
very many cases, as Mr. Massee says, legisla-
tion cannot, at all events at present, be called
into operation. This is no new view, however,
but was put forward very clearly by Prof. B.
T. Galloway (then Chief of the Division of
Vegetable Pathology) at the National Conven-
tion for the Suppression of Insect Pests and
Plant Diseases by Legislation, held at Wash-
ington, U.S.A., in 1897. Prof. Galloway ex-
pressed his opinion then that the greater por-
tion of our plant diseases and insect pests can-
not be reached by legislation : "A vast number
of fungus diseases are almost as universally
distributed as the host-plants themselves."
Among such diseases rust is mentioned. " It
would bo manifestly as impossible to control
such enemies by legislation as it would be to
control the dust of the air."

But Prof. Galloway goes on to say : " Of
course, there may be special cases where laws
would be an advantage. It may sometimes
happen that a dangerous pest is imported, and,
although established in one or more places,
might be quickly and easily eradicated by
prompt and intelligent action supported by
proper legislation."

I contend that the Gooseberry disease men-
tioned above is eminently a case where legisla-
tive action by the authorities is required. As
a general principle, too, whilst ready to admit
that with our present imperfect knowledge of
the life-history of many fungi, it is impossible
in many cases to control, by legislative means,
the diseases they cause, I maintain that each
disease requires the most careful consideration
by itself to ascertain whether its control or pre-
vention lies within the scope of legislation.

For a demonstration of the economic import-
ance of vegetable pathology, and the use of
legislation in safeguarding the interests of agri-
culturists and horticulturists, we have to turn
in the first place to the United States. Other
countries are now following the example set
by the LTnited States in controlling the spread
of fungus plant diseases by legislation ; we may
mention the " Orchard and Garden Pests Act "
of New Zealand, and the laws passed recently
by New South Wales, Sweden, and Finland.
From an article by Prof. E. F. Smith, of the
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Division of
Vegetable Physiology and Pathology, on the
subject of "Legal Enactments for the Restriction
of Plant Diseases," we find that in 1896 no
fewer than 14 States possessed legal regulations
for the prevention of plant diseases. The same
high authority, in his exhaustive governmental
report on the fungus disease known as " Peach
Yellows," spoke strongly in favour of employ-
ing inter-State legislation to prohibit strictly
the importation of peach trees from the Eastern
United States into California. The remarks

made here* by Prof. E. F. Smith, on the sub-
ject of "Restrictive Legislation," may be com-
mended to the readers of this journal.

The following is an instance of the good
effects brought about by the passing of a State
law in connection with fungus plant diseases.
The following words are contained in a report
made by the Secretary of the Californian State
Board of Horticulture: "Prior to 1880, Cali-
fornia had no State legislation for the protec-
tion of the horticultural interests, and the
Eastern and Southern nurserymen found our
State a convenient dumping ground for all their
pest-ridden trees, until we became alive to the
danger before us through yearly loss, and se-
cured the creation of the State Board of Horti-
culture and the enactment of protective horti-
cultural legislation. . . . What was the re-
sult? Each nurseryman pays strict attention,
and sees that his stock is clear before ship-
ment, else it will be quarantined at destination,
and a certificate of inspection before shipment
must accompany each shipment."

Mr. Massee, in the concluding part, asks that
his article may not be taken as a tirade against
legislation. Except for this warning, there cer.
tainly might have been this danger. If all the
assumptions made by Mr. Massee were war-
ranted scientifically, and if, as Mr. Massee ap-
parently believes, the serious epidemic fungus
diseases are seldom in evidence or capable of
detection at the time of introduction into a new
country, and that therefore it would be neces-
sary for the Government to plant out and super-
vise for a year all imported living plants (surely
a reduclio ad ahsurdum of any proposed legisla-
tive action), the authorities might indeed have
reason to believe legislation impracticable.

In conclusion, with reference again to the
question of dealing with the American Goose-
berry mildew — at the present moment a vital
and pressing question — I cannot help expressing
my regret that Mr. Massee should have pub-
lished statements calculated to dissuade the
Authorities from employing legislative measures
to stamp out this disease. It is the more regret-
table, since at the present time there is a move-
ment on the Continent to establish an interna-
tional bureau of plant pathology, in connection
with an international institute of agriculture. t
If our Government will support this movement,
we may hope that at length the question of
legislation and the control of plant diseases
will receive the careful and scientific attention
it has received in other countries. Ernest S.
Salmon, South-Eastern Agricultural College,
Wye, Kent.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

ACHIMENES. TYD^AS, &c.
The time of the year has arrived when a
commencement may be made in the preparation
of a small quantity of the stolons of Achimenes
for early flowering in the stove and other warm
houses. Providing the last season's masses are
still undisturbed in the pots and pans in which
the plants flowered, and this is always the best
practice, a few of such varieties as may be desired
should be shaken out of the soil, and the stolons
collected and sized, the larger ones of about an
equal size being reserved for starting into growth
and treating as flowering plants, and the weaker
to grow on as stock plants, which may or may not
flower satisfactorily, but will certainly increase in
size, becoming useful stolons the next year,
Achimenes being mostly natives of tropical South
America need a considerable amount of artificial
warmth at the beginning of the year, and a free

* Bull. 9, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Section of
A'egetable Pathology.

+ See my previous article in this Journal, Oct. 1905 ;
also Poitniglilly RcvicK for November last.

and porous soil, together with ample drainage ,.
much water at the root being essential at tlie
height of their growth. The best receptacles in
which to start the stolons are pans or boxes of
not mbre than 2 inches in depth, nearly half of
which may be occupied with crocks, and the
upper half with a coarsely-sifted mixture of leaf-
mould and peat in equal proportions, together
with a fair quantity of sharp sand. Having pressed
down the soil evenly and firmly, place the stolons
at about an inch apart, and rather more if these
are of large size. In the case of A. picta, a pretty
scarlet-flowered species, these are less than J-inch
in the longer diameter, and require a corres-
pondingly smaller space. The stolons being
duly placed on the soil, should then be covered
with the compost to the depth of -J-inch, this
being likewise pressed slightly and made smooth
and level, the pans, &c., placed on a shelf in the
stove, stove-pit, or propagating house, in which
a night temperature of not less than 60'' Fahy.
is maintained, no water being afforded unless the
soil should have become very dry, till the shoots
have pushed through the crust ; even so, a slight
dewing over with a fine rose syringe is better
than an application with a watering can. In this
connection it may be stated that overhead
syringings need not as a rule be indulged in with
any of this family of tropical herbs, and are as a
rule positively injurious to the velvety leaves of
Gesneras, to Tydaeas, &c. ; indeed a dry, rather
arid atmosphere suits these plants much better
than a moisture laden one.

As basket plants for summer flowering Achimenes
are excelled by few others, and by none having
the same colours in their flowers. They succeed
in the ordinary greenhouse after June is out, and
in the southern parts of the country can be em-
ployed in open verandahs and balconies. Those
which lend themselves to basket culture the more
readily are such as possess long trailing stems as
A. longiflora, A. 1. alba, and A. patens, A.
Rollissoni, a cross between A. gloxiniasflora and
A. Scheeri and A. Gibsoni. Several varieties are
of more stocky growth and are in consequence
well adapted for cultivation in pots and pans,
being supported by means of thin twigs and sticks.
.\11 the species may be rendered bushy in habit by
having the points of the growths nipped out once
or twice during the early season of growth, these-
points rooting readily in heat if an increase of
stock be necessary.

TvD.'EAS. — These plants, which inter-cross
readily, need much the same sort of treatment as
Achimenes in the early stages, and more warmth
to flower them successfully. There are now many
varieties due to the efforts of Continental hybridists,,
more especially of M. Roezl, who raised numerous
crosses in M. Van Houtte's nursery at Ghent.
These plants seem to be dropping out of cultiva-
tion in this country, although handsome in flower-
and foliage, and of easy cultivation. The starting
of the stolons is better done at the end of Febru-
ary and in the months of March and April, the
method being the same as in the case of Achi-
menes. F. M.

AZARA GILLIESII.

(For Illustration see p. 77.)
The .Vzaras are very attractive evergreen shrubs,
natives of Chile, and hardy in most parts of
England. A. microphylla is remarkable for its
leaves, which are of two different sizes on the-
same branches. A. Gilliesii has larger leaves, not
unlike those of a holly. The small yellow flowers
are borne in axillary spikes. We are indebted to
Messrs. Paul and Son for a specimen. In their
nursery at High Beech, the home of many rari-
ties, the plant is quite hardy and is now show-
ing flower. The Azaras are included among the
Bixacea^.

Februauv 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

75

JOINT RAILWAY AND PARLIA-
MENTARY COMMITTEE.
The following Copy of a Memorial presented to
His Majesty's Ministers in the Cabinet has been
sent us lor publication : —

Tavistock Hotel,

CovENT Garden,

London, "W.C.
January loth, 1906.
WE, the undersigned, representing the Producers and
Distributors of Perishable Foods on the above "Joint Rait-
way and Parliamentary Committee," beg to call your
attention to the fact that the Industries we represent, although
of National importance, are becoming more and more at
the mercy of the Railway Companies.

This arises, partly from the Railway Companies acting in
concert, as though the Legislature had sanctioned a vast
Parliamentary Monopoly or enormous Trust or Combine,
partly from the Railway Companies refusing to recognise the
enormously increased volume and altered conditions of
traffic in our trades, and the necessity for lower rates and
increased facilities, and more especially from the gradual
imllification of the safeguards the Legislature intended to
provide for Traders.

The result of this is, that our industries are crippled in
many instances by the increase of rates and the withdrawal
of facilities, when lower rates and increased facilities should
in justice be given.

We, therefore, ask you to do all in your power to help us
to obtain by Act of Parliament, a Tribunal with powers : —
I. — To alter and amend the already out-of-date Classifi-
cation.
2.— To deal as intended by the Legislatiu-e with in-
creases in rates ami withdrawal of facilities.
3.— To deal with claims for reductions in rates and in-
crease of facilities.

We ask that the Tribunal be so constituted as to give
Traders an inexpensive and practical procedure.

As luatters stand now, we are powerless to obtain redress
even by fighting the combined Railway Companies of the
Kingdom in the Law Courts at enormous cost, and admittedly
the time has arrived for new Legislation.

We feel sure you will agree with us that the fostering and
development of Home Industries is, at the present moment,
a far more vital question than many others that may be
brought before you, directly affecting, as it does, the pros-
perity of the whole Country.

We also claim that better Railway facilities for these trades
will materially help-to solve the Unemployed question, and
liy still further increasing the volume of traffic will substan-
tially benefit the revenues of the Railway Companies them-
selves.

If you can conveniently appoint a time for a Deputation
from our Committee to wait on you and lay our views te-
fore you, we should esteem it a favour.

(Signed) :—Co\one\ Charles Wigram Long, M.P., D.L.,
President,The National Fruit Growers' Federation ; H. Isaacs,
President, The Green Fruit Section, The London Chamber of
Commerce ; David Rose, President, The National Federa-
tion of Meat Traders' Associations, Incorporated; William
Cooper, President, the Central Markets' Meat and Poultry
Association; P. J. Chirgwin, President, the Federation of
Grocers' Associations of the United Kingdom ; W. Poupart,
President, The Market Gardeners', Nurserymen and
Farmers' Association ; Stuart H. Low, President, The
Horticultural Trades' Association of Great Britain and
Ireland; The Hon. and Revd. A. C. Baillie Hamilton,
President, the Guernsey Growers' Association ; H. Becker.
President, The Jersey Growers* Association; E. Rochford,
President, The English Grape Growers' Association ; Geo.
Monro, President, The National Federation of Fruit and
Potato Trades' Associations, Incorporated, and of the Joint
Railway and Parliamentary Committee.

THE WEATHER AT ROTH-

AMSTED IN 1905.

According to the meteorological records at
the Rothamsted Experiment Station, Hertford-
shire, for the year 1905 just past, the year as a
■whole has shown a temperature slightly above
the average of the past twenty-seven years. The
only cold months were August, September,
October, and November, the two latter being the
most unseasonably cold, while the months of
February, March, and July were the most un-
seasonably warm.

The total rainfall tor the year 1905 amounts to
very iiearly 26| inches, which shows a falling ofi
from the average of the past 52 years at this
station of about Ij inch. There were no very
wet months, March and June showing the
greatest excess, while October and December
recorded the most deficiency. The sun shone
brightly throughout the year for a total of 1,579
hours, which is 10 hours less than the average
in this neighbourhood for the past twelve years.
The sunniest months were May and July, while

the greatest deficiency of bright sunshine was
experienced in April.

The following table shows the rainfall of each
month for the past year at Rothamsted, with
the average amount of rainfall for each month
of the previous 52 years (1853-1904), and the
difference of 1905 above or below the average
record : —

Rainfall at Rothamsted, Herts, for each month
of the year 1905, the total for the year, the
average rainfall of 52 years, 1853-190-1, and 1905
above or below the average.

Average

1905.

Months,

Kjiiifall

Rainfall

Above or

I'JOS

of

below the

52 years

average (1)

Inches

" Inches

Inches

January

134

2-38

— 104

February

0-95

1-81

— 0-86

March

357

1-81

+ 1 78

April

2-22

1-85

+ 0-37

May

1-13

2-22

— 109

June

i-m

2-38

+ 1-C9

July

1-47

2-58

~ 1-11

August

:)-46

2CG

-r 0-80

September

2 25

2'4q

— 0-24

October

1G7

3-12

— 1-4.5

November

3-23

2-58

+ 0-67

December

110

2-31

— 1-21

Yearly total

26-44

2815

-1-71

(1) The sign in the last column (-H) signifies above the
average, and the sign ( — ) below the average.

The rain gauge, which is one-thousandth part
of an acre in dimension, stands two feet above
the surface of the ground, and is about 420 feet
above sea level. The above data shows a total
of 26.44 inches of rain for the twelve months of
the )'ear 1905, against an average of 28.15 inches,
which is 1.71 inch less than the average record
for this district extending over a period of 52
years. In other words, the deficiency of rain
for the year amounts to 172J tons of water on
each acre of land, and taking the rainfall for the
last four months of the year, there is a falling
off of the average for the same period in the
last 52 years by 2^ inches, which is equivalent lo
a loss in our underground water supply of 50,450
gallons on each acre of land.

The next table shows the mean temperature
in the shade for each month of the 3-ear 1905,
with the excess or deficiency at the Rothamsted
Station during the past 27 years, 1878-1904; also
the nuiuber of hours of bright sunshine re-
corded for each month in the past year, and the
number of hours above or below the average for
the past 12 years, 1892-1904. Mean temperature
and bright sunshine, at Rothamsted, Herts, for
each month of the year 1905 : —

Mean Temperature

Bright S

unshine

Months

Above

Above

1905

or below
.Average

1905

or below
Average

Degrees

Degrees

Hours

Hours

January

37 4 -r

-+ 0-8

84

+ 37

February

412

-f 3 0

78

4- 10

March

44-1

-1- 3-3

126

+ 14

April

45-6

0

101

— 70

May

61-4

-f- 0-2

214

-f 48

June

68-5

■F 1-1

169

— 34

July

642

-f3-4

265

+ 43

August

68-7

— 1-2

180

— 25

September

54-7

— 1-1

129

— 31

October

445

— 3-5

114

-1- 8

November

40-1

— 2-4

60

+ 2

December

392

-1- 1-5

30

— 13

Yearly mean or total

48-3

+ 0-4

1579

— 10

The mean temperature for the year is 48.3",
or 0.4° above the average record. Seven months
gave an excessive amount of warmth, while four
months gave a deficiency.

The month of April was neutral, giving exactly
the temperature of the past 27 years, viz., 45.6°.
There were 66 nights when the minimum tem-
perature fell below the freezing point of water,
the aggregate amount of frost for the year being
216°. January recorded 18 nights of frost, with
an aggregate record of 102", November 14 nights

with an aggregate amount of frost of 49°, and
December 10 nights with 19°. In fact, Decem-
ber was exceptionally dry, calm and warm, with
no cold- worth mentioning. There was one night
of frost in May, which cut down all the Potato
haulms to the ground. There was frost in eight
months out of the twelve. There was probably
an aggregate depth of about 8 inches of snow-
recorded in this neighbourhood throughout the
year. The bright sunshine was in excess from
the average record during seven months, and
under the average for the other five months.
The sun shone on an average about 4 hours \Qi
minutes each day throughout the year, which is
a few minutes per day below the average record
for this open country district. /. /. Willis,
Tiarj>indcn.

KEW NOTES.

Jacobinia Penrhosiensis X .

Whe.-i first exhibited some 50 or 60 years ago,
this garden hybrid was of more botanical interest
than it is to-day. At that time the two parents
were known under different generic names,
so that the hybrid was considered to be a bi-
generic one. It was obtained by crossing Libonia
lloribunda with Sericographis Ghiesbreghtiana.
Modern botanists having included the two parents
in the same genus Jacobinia, the hybrid is now
of less scientific interest. Several years after
it was exhibited under the name of Libonia
penrhosiensis, M. Linden made the same cross,
and not being aware of its previous introduction
gave it the name of Sericobonia ignea, a name
indicating its generic origin. He withdrew his
name on learning of the earlier one, but even now
it is more generally known on the Continent by
Linden's name.

The plant is more robust than the seed-bearing
parent, the leaves are larger, the corolla of the
flower longer and brighter in colour, there being
a greater preponderance of red in proportion to
the yellow, showing distinctly the influence of the
pollen parent.

As a plant for greenhouse decoration in winter
it is very useful. It may be readily propagated
by cuttings inserted in spring, and old plants may
be cut back after flowering and grown on, afford-
ing them a little extra heat until new growth has
been made. In a few years by this method good
bushes may be obtained. Plenty of fresh air and
sunlight are necessary to ripen the wood for
flowering in the following season. A small group
of plants have been flowering in No. 4 greenhouse.
A. O.

Interesting Orchids in Flower.
Amongst the numerous well-known species of
Orchids now flowering are many that are less
well-known, some of which are very beautiful,
and others that are of exceptional interest. None
more so, perhaps, thanDendrobiumcapituliflorum,
which is very distinct from the typical Dendrobium .
It is a species from, New Guinea, with a growth
about a foot in length, rather stout at the base,
tapering to the apex ; the flowers are borne in
dense globular heads, containing about 20 small
creamy-white blossoms. TheBurmeatD. luteoluni
is also worthy of note ; the large pale-yellow
blooms are very pleasing. Tainea viridi-fusca
attracts attention with its erect spike of j-ellow-
brown Dendrobium-like flowers. One of the most
charming hybrids now in flower is Laelio-Cattleya
Lydia of a delightful shade of pale-yellow colour.
.\mongst the Masdevallias, the hybrid M. Rushtoni
is one of the best. M. abbreviata and M. polysticta
are very charming with their numerous small
white-speckled flowers. Seraphyta multiflora and
Octadermia serratifolia represent two genera
that are rarely seen. Mystacidium (.\ngrfficum)
sesquipedale is represented by a good specimen

76

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[FECia-Aiiv 3, IGOC.

carrying seven of its remarkable large white
waxy flowers. Plialasnopsis rosea, P. gloriosa,
P. denticulata, and P. Luddemanniana are
amongst tlie species of this beautiful genus,
now in flower. Saccolabium bellinum is a species
which excites the admiration of all ; a healthy little
specimen is now carrying ten blooms. Vanda
Watsoni is a pretty little species with slender,
terete leaves and pure white flowers, having a
large fringed lip. It was recently introduced from
Annam by Messrs. Sander & Sons. The elegant
Epidendrum Endresii has three growths, with a
total of 36 flowers. It is undoubtedly the pearl of
the genus, and all too rare. E. Wallisii is also
very fine, with a tall, stout growth, having nine
clusters of blossoms. E. polybulbon is a pretty
and distinct species witli Bulbophyllum-like
growths. The flowers are about i inch in diameter,
linear sepals and petals, and a pure white cordate-
shaped lip. E. AUemanii belongs to the E.
fragrans type, and has white, vanilla-scented
blooms of good substance, lasting for a consider-
able time in a fresh condition. Cynorchis com-

FRUIT REGISTER.

APPLE CHARLES ROSS.

Now that many gardens contain trees of this
variety of a fruiting size growers will be able to
judge of its merits. From five small pyramid-
shaped trees grafted on the Paradise stock I
gathered last season some 50 very fine quality
fruits of excellent flavour, but of much too large a
size for dessert purposes. I think the Fruit Com-
mittee of the Royal Horticultural Society would
do well to class this variety with Blenheim Pippin,
Gascoyne's Seedling, and other varieties of that
type, in order that it may be exhibited both as a
culinary and a dessert variety at the autumn
exhibitions. It is doubtless a very fine Apple and
well worthy to perpetuate the name of the veteran
fruit grower who raised it. I am forwarding two
fruits. Chas. Page, Dropmore Gardens, Biieks.

[The fruits were exceedingly handsome, but
they possessed no flavour, and the flesh was dry
and mealy. They had undoubtedly been kept too
late in the season. — Ed ]

Fig. 34. — LOCKINGE PARK : A GLIMPSE OF A STREAM IN THE PLEASURE GROUNDS.
(See page 67. — From a photograph by W. ]. Vasey, Abingdon.)

pacta is a pretty little terrestial Orchid from South
Africa, with erect spikes of violet-spotted white
flowers. Small pans of a dozen flowering growths
are a welcome addition in the cool house at this
season. C. Lowiana is a larger growing species
from Madagascar, having a prominent magenta-
coloured lip. Xylobium corrugatum is a curious
small-growing Orchid, with slender, erect scapes,
bearing usually four rather small yellow-red
flowers. Pleurothallis Roezlii is now very fin.-^,
and is without doubt the best of the large genus
to which it belongs. Brassavola Martiana is a
free-flowered species with a prettily fringed lip.
Listrostachys hamata is a very distinct species,
having a short spike of large pearly-white flowers,
in which the sepals, petals and the lip are exactly
alike in shape, giving the flower a "regular"
appearance. The very rare Odontoglossum
retusum is represented by a small plant bearing
two erect spikes ; it is a small bulbed species with
long, narrow leaves. The flowers are rather
smaller than those of O. Edwardi, and are of an
orange-red shade of colour. W. H.

FORESTRY.

CLIM.ATE .\ND FORESTRY.

For me, who have had to do with the question of
naturalisation of exotic forest trees during the last
quarter of a century, there can be no d'oubt as to
there being a great difference between our climate
and that of the British Isles ; but it turns out to
be quite in favour of the latter. And so I can only
corroborate Sir Herbert Maxwell's statement, as
well as that of Dr. Augustine Henry's, published
in the Gardeners' Chronicle.

Let me add a few words. A good many of the
north-west Conifers, as for instance the Douglas
Fir, grow in a most remarkable way with us —
better than our own indigenous trees — but this is
because the geographical range of this tree is so
very large. It extends, according to Professor
Sargent, over 30 degrees of latitude.

But to give in a few words the principal differ-
ence between the English climate and our own
(and that in these cases it is not a matter of soil.

but solely one of climate) I may state that you
will never see in Germany such splendid avenues
of Cedrus deodara and Araucaria imbricala as
those at Bicton and Dropmore, nor such speci-
mens of Taxodium sempervirens and the Mexican
Conifers as Pinus Hartwegi, nor the beautiful
Abies morinda. I could easily make up a list of
100 plants, trees, and shrubs which grow luxuri-
antly in England and which will never stand our
Continental climate. I know the British Isles
pretty well and the wonderful growth of trees in
those islands. There is nothing on the Continent
to be compared with the growth of trees in Eng-
land. John Booth, Corresponding Member of the
R.H.S., Grois-Liehterfelde, near Berlin.

THE ROSARY.

ROSARIUM.

We have before us the first number for the year
of a journal devoted to Rose Culture and to the
interest of the society known as " Nos jungunt
Rosae " (Roses unite us all). The title of the
society is, as is customary in Holland, e.xpressive
of its aims and objects. The editorship is con-
fided to Mr. P. L. Baudet, of De Bilk, and Mr.
J. K. Budde, of Utrecht, whilst the publisher is
M. E. E. M. I. Kromme, Hartiugstraat No. 24,
Utrecht. The subscription price for foreign
countries is 3 florins (5 shillings).

The Rose exhibition is to be held at Zeist on
July 25 and 26. A photographic illustration of
Rose Souvenir de Jean Ketten H. T. is given with
the present issue. The text is in Dutch. What
matter? " Nos jungunt Rosas."

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(TJtc Editor does not liold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty iiis correspondents.)

NicoTiANA SandeR/C. — This proves to be a
\aluable plant for finwering in the winter months.
Some plants that were late in commencing to
'lower were lifted about the middle of October
and put into pots. They were given a little care
and attention, and soon recovered from the check.
They have flowered ever since, and at the present
date, January 6, they are still in full bloom and
likely to continue so for some time to come. The
plants liave been kept in an atmosphere of the
temperature of 45'-^ to SS'". Air has been admitted
to the structure whenever the weather was favour-
able. The colour of the type is useful in winter,
when bright flowers are none too plentiful. The
colour improves under artificial light, and the
plants have a light and graceful appearance v.dien
used for the decoration of the dinner table. I!'. H.
Divers, Belvoir Castle Gardens, Grantham. —

Cleansing Hardy Fruit Trees. — Owing
to the exceptionally mild weather experienced
this season, fruit buds of all kinds are in a very
forward condition, making it imperative that all
cleansing operations should be taken in hand
forthwith. In many gardens and fruit-orchards
one still sees trees infested with moss and lichen,
which form a hiding place for all kinds of insect
pests. No better winter-dressing for fruit trees
can be applied than the caustic soda and pearl-ash
wash , which substance can now be obtained from
the horticultural sundriesmen in tins ready for
mixirg, and with instructions for using. Persons
desirous of mixing the components themselves can
use the following quantities with safety : — i lb.
caustic soda, J lb. of pearl-ash, 10 oz. of soft
soap, and 10 gall, of water, the last-named at a
temperature of 120°. This mixture will destroy
all insect pests with which it comes in contact.
I strongly urge all fruit-growers in whose plant-
ations winter moth and scale insects are trouble-
some to use alkali dressing at the present time,
as the benefit of the labour entailed ncv.' v/ill be
apparent in the coming sunmier. It may be
necessary in the case of trees on which the woolly
aphis, American blight, has obtained a footing
to dress the affected parts two or three times at
intervals of a week, working the solution well :n
with a stiff painter's-brush. Rubber gloves must

FEDJiUAi^v 3, 1006.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

77

^ /^ rtrr^''^^^-^-. J ".Q «»i ^*

Fig. 35.— AZARA GILLIEin: a, young flower from the side; it., FLOVvER further ti-i-ANDED ;

C, COROLLA FROM BELOW (mAGN).

'8

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 3, 1906.

be worn by the operator to protect the hands, as
the mixture is very caustic, and the us; of an old
coat and a sack apron are recommended. The
Abol syringe is an excellent tool for applying the
mixture to dwarf trees, but for standard trees a
garden engine should be used, choosing a still
<lay for the operation. C. Page, Dropmore Gardens,
Bucks.

The Herb Garden. — In orderto make certain
of a continuous supply of herbs, a plantation
should be made of all varieties that are likely to be
required. These should be properly labelled so that
there will be no excuse for anyone making a mis-
take in gathering a particular herb. Many of the
species can be divided in the same way that
herbaceous plants are treated in order to form
fresh stock. The ground should first of all be
trenched and given an application of manure.
More often than not, some out of the way spot is
selected for herbs, and they afterwards sufter neg-
lect, but a good herb border should be an interest-
ing feature of any garden. Seed may be sown
later, of all varieties, and especially of such sorts
as sage, &c., that cannot be divided. There is no
hurry to sow just yet. Jas. Gibson, Welbeck Gardens,
Worksop.

3how of Flowering Carnations. — With
reference to previous correspondence on this sub-
"ect may I say that February 13 has been fixed
by the Council of the Royal Horticultural Society
for this show ? Three classes of exhibits have
.been suggested, viz., those occupying 5, 15 and
30 feet of tabling respectively, thus providing for
the requirements of small, medium and large
growers. Exhibits, which may be either Tree
Carnations, or Malmaisons, or both, may consist
of cut bloom, plants, or both together, with
Carnation foliage, or other small foliage plants,
The Council will grant medals, etc.. to any of the
groups, classes or exhibits which they may think
■worthy of that distinction. They will also give
certificates to blooms of new varieties of Tree
Carnations or Malmaisons, of sufficient merit
"not yet in Commerce." Not fewer than six
blooms to form an exhibit. Notification of in-
tention to exhibit and of space required should be
sent on or before Thursday, February 8, to the
Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, Vincent
Square, Westminster, S.W. Hayward Maihias,
Thames Dillon, Surrey. January 19, I90G.

Fifteen Pounds Annual Rent per Acre
from Timber Crops. — It is curious reading the
opinions of doubters about the unsuitableness of
our climate for growing timber with such certified
examples to be seen as that furnished by Dr.
Nisbet, in his recently published Forester, re-
garding the Douglas Fir at Scone. It is stated
that a Perth timber merchant offered to buy the
whole Taymount plantation at /200 per acre
when the trees v^ere 40 years old from seed ; and
that from 1888 up till quite lately the annual
increment alone, per acre, amounted to 400 cubic
feet of timber — merchant's trunk measure — worth
/15 per acre at gd. only per foot. I would like
to hear of a regulat rent like this from any other
crop in any climate. J. Simpson.

Iris tuberosa, — When I was a boy living in
Devonshire I grew this well in a shaded and
sheltered situation. I have it now in this garden
in a somewhat similar condition, but much the
oldest group is in a wood, greatly overrun with
ivy and shaded by trees. I ha\'e known this group
lor more than 60 years, and it must then have
been there many years. The plant evidently
requires shade, shelter, and good loam to succeed
well. This delicate and interesting plant is not,
however, a very free bloomer. W. S. L. Pinwill,
Trchane Probes, CoruK'all, January 29.

Early Spring or Late Autumn? — At
present Rosehill garden at Falmouth has, in addi-
tion to the ordinary spring plants, the following in
flower in the open air: — Acacia dealbata, A. longi-
folia and A. lophantha, Abutilons megapotamicum,
Houle de Neige, Crusader, and Prince of Wales;
Auricula, Anemone, Berberis Darwinii, Camellias,
Chrysanthemums, Chionodoxa sardensis and C.
I^ucilliae, Clematis balearica. Cyclamens coum,
ibericum and persicura ; Daphne vera indica,
Desfontainea spinosa, Diosma ericoides, Diplacus
glutinosui, Eccremocarpus scaber. Erica carnea,
E. codonodes ; Erysimum, Erigeron, Eryngium
pandanifolium, Eupatorium micranthum, Ever-
lastings, Fuchsias, Fragaria indica. Geraniums,
Grevillea rosmarinifolia. Hydrangeas and Helle-
bores in variety, Iberis sempervirens. Iris stylosa
and I. reticulata, Lithospermum prostratum, Musa
japonica (Banana), five plants in flower and fruit ;

jMelianthus major, Marigold, Marguerites, Nas-
turtiums, Narcissus, Nicotiana Sanderae, Olearia
Gunniana Omphalodes verna. Polyanthus, Pan-
sies, Pittosporum Tobira, Roses in variety, Schi-
zostylis coccinea. Spiraea ericoides. Squills, Stocks,
Saxifraga crassifolia, Skiramia japonica, Spar-
mannia Africana, Senecio grandifolius 8 feet high,
with flower heads from 12 to 18 inches in diameter,
S. Petasites, Thalictrum, Triteleia uniflora, Tri-
toma, Vinca, Wallflowers and Yuccas. The
following have been in flower all the year round : —
Cestrum (Habrothamnus) fasciculatum, Coronilla
glauca, Escallonias, Genistas, Teucrium fruticans
and Veronicas. Hon'ard Fo.x, January 27 , 1906.

Plants for Association with Rho-
dodendrons, &c. — I have found the Iceland
Poppy (Papaver nudicaule) one of the best
plants for this purpose, especially in the case of
newly-planted narrow beds or borders in which
the Rhododendrons have a clear stem of i| to
2 feet in length. The Shirley Poppy is also suit-
able, but this plant will not succeed in the shade,
and is more likely to be affected by drip from the
Rhododendrons after rain than are Iceland
Poppies. For larger beds giant annual Poppies
can be used. Salpiglossis is also very useful,
and makes an effective combination. Tree Lupins,
providing the soil is a loam and of not too light a
nature, are in some cases very good subjects for
planting in beds of Rhododendrons. Iceland
Poppies and Salpiglossis should be raised in early
springtime, and be planted out when the general
bedding work is undertaken. Sow the giant
Poppies where they are intended to flower. Tree
Lupins transplant much better from pots than
from a seed bed. C. Ruse. Mundcn Gardens, Wat-
ford.

The Planting of Vines. — Vines intended
for planting should be dealt with as soon as they
show signs of growth. Carefully remove all the
soil from their roots by washing them in tepid
water. Make the holes intended for their recep-
tion wide enough to allow of the roots being
spread in a horizontal position from the stem,
placing them so that the topmost roots are just
below the surface of the ground. When an in-
side as well as an outside border exists place most
of the roots in the direction of the inside border.
Water will, as a rule, not be required until the
vines are growing freely, neither should any arti-
ficial heat be given until the young growths are at
least I foot in length. The vines should not be
cut back, and all the buds should be allowed to
break into growth. Select the strongest " break "
for the leading shoot and pinch out all above it,
but preserve all shoots below the leader. When
the auxiliary growths develop eight leaves they
should be stopped. Most of the growths below
the wires will need securing to sticks placed in the
border. Plenteous side growths will not be detri-
mental, but, ontheotlierhand, will be a material aid
in strengthening the stem, for abundance of healthy ,
exposed foliage means plenty of roots, and conse-
quently a strong and healthy vine. As the season
advances admit, in fine weather, plenty of outside
air. Remove all bunches of fruit that appear, and
in warm weather syringe the vines and close the
house about 4.30 p.m. that the atmosphere of the
vinery may remain damp during the night. When
all the leaves have fallen prune the side shoots
close to the stem, leaving the rod, if strong and
well ripened, some 6 or 8 feet in length, but
should it be weak cut back to a good plump bud.
After being pruned tie the vines in a horizontal
position, and allow them to remain in that position
until the following spring. C. Ruse, Munden Gardens,
Watford.

Early Flowers. — In the .\merican Garden
here that briglit coloured Rhododendron Noble-
anum is now in full bloom, and is a charming sight.
R. prsecox, that delightful little hybrid between
R. ciliatum and R. dauricum, of rosy purple
colour is opening its flowers, and in one or two
extra warm spots has been in flower for several
days ; it makes a very charming bush from 2 to 3
feet in height, and is well adapted for cultivation
in warm positions in the S.W. counties. If it is
necessary, the plants may be easily protected, by-
means of a few stakes stuck in the ground in
tripod fashion, and a mat or piece of stout tiflany
wrapt around them at night. Primrose Miss
Massey, bright red, has been in flower in the
Alpine garden for some time past — as have s&veral
other white and purple varieties. Iris stylosa is
tlowerin? very freely, and Narcissus minimus is
giving a touch of colour. Erica carnea and alba
are also flowering freely ; while towering abo\e

them is the lovely Erica codonodes — plants of
these, 6 feet in height, are beautiful and well
worth the notice of all lovers of out-door garden-
ing. Grevillia rosmarinifolia has been in flower
for a considerable time, its pretty red flowers are
very attractive, and it is now a conspicuous figure
in the American Garden. Chimonanthus fragrans
has been perfect this season. Jasminum nudi-
florum, with its pretty yellow flower, is charming
upon walls and growing around trees and over other
bushes. Anemone blanda is flowering freely.
W. A. Cook, Leonardslee Gardens, Horsham. Janu-
ary 27.

Canker in Apple Trees. — The variety
Ribston Pippin is liable to this disease no
matter what the locality, or the kind of soil the
trees are growing in, but the conditions are
much worse where the roots of the trees come
into contact with an unsuitable subsoil, or if there
is only imperfect drainage. All badly affected
shoots or branches should be cut clean out, but
slight attacks may have the cankered portion
removed with a sharp knife or chisel and the
wound be painted over with Stockholm tar, keep-
ing it away from the bark as much as possible.
We use this tar for all Conifers when a branch of
any size has to be removed, and the bark quickly
begins to heal over. Out of about 60 varieties
of Apples grown here only four exhibit signs of
canker, namely. Devonshire Quarrenden, Bis-
marck, Gascoyne's Scarlet Seedling, and Ribston
Pippin. J. Mayne, Bieton.

SOCISTIEIS.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

January 23. — Present : Dr. M. T. Masters,
F.R.S. (in the chair) ; Messrs. Massee, Saunders,
Gordon, Bowles, Michael, Nicholson, Holmes;
Rev. W. Wilks ; andF. J. Chittenden (Hon. Sec).

Apples with ring-like split. — Mr. Massee said that
the cracks and markings on the surface of the
Apples shown by Mr. Spencer Pickering, F.R.S. ,
at the last meeting, were caused by the well-known
parasite Fusicladium dendriticum. This fungus,
however, was not at all concerned with the abnor-
mal constriction of the fruit.

Clematis stem cracked. — Mr. Massee also reported
that in the Clematis stems shown by Mr. G. S.
Saunders, F.L.S., there was an excessive develop-
ment of callus excited by the rupture of the stem.
Such rupture is not caused by a fungus, and the
origin is not apparent. It was suggested that frost
was the cause of the splitting.

Holly leaves blistered. — Some Holly leaves with
the well-known disfigurement of blisters were re-
ceived from Milverton, N.B., upon which Mr.
Saunders reported as follows: "The coloured
blotclies on the leaves are caused by the grubs of
the Holly fly (Phytomyza aquifolia), a very com-
mon insect, which lays its eggs just underneath
the skin of the leaf. The young grubs at once
begin to feed on the inner substance of the leaf,
and cause the blister-like blotches. When the
grubs become chrysalides their heads are partly
pushed through tlie skin, so that when the fly
emerges it at once does so into the open air. It is
almost impossible to recommend any remedy, no
insecticides can be made to reach the grubs or chry-
salides, and it is a hopeless task to try to catch the
flies. Spraying the leaves with a solution of paraffin
emulsion at the time when the flies were wishing
to lay their eggs would probably deter them from
doing so. This operation is performed in May or
June, according to the season, and it is very diffi-
cult to know when to spray. Picking off and
burning the infested leaves is the most practical
remedy. The minute pustules and depressions
which are present on many of the leaves are not
caused by this insect," Members of the com-
mittee considered that the small depressions were
due to the puncturing of tlieleavesby the spines of
other leaves in windy weather.

Beans poisonous. — Mr. Holmes, referring to the
cases of poisoning by roots of Runner Beans,
recently brought to the notice of the committee,
mentioned a case where a herd of 26 cattle had
been poisoned by beanmeal, and said that it could
not be too widely known that uncooked beans of
the genus Phaseolus contained prussic acid, and
should on no account be eaten.

Plants Exhibited.
Debregeasia velntina. — Dr. Masters drew atten-

Fkbkuary 3, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

79

tion to a fruiting shoot of this plant shown by
Messrs. Veitch. The plant is a native of the
Himalayas, and bears numerous small orange
yellow Mulberry-like fruits in small clusters. The
plant belongs to the Urticaces, and the fruits are
edible, but "are not much appreciated." It was
figured in the Rcvite Horticole, i8g6, p. 321.

Hamanthus magnificiis. — This plant, with a large
head of pinkish flowers, was shown by Mr.
Hudson.

Ttilip Pioscipinc. — Mr. Horse, of Thurstaston,
near Birkenhead, sent two examples of this Tulip,
each of which bore three (lowers, one, as usual,
terminal, and one springing from the axil of each of
the upper two foliage leaves. The production of
more than.one flower on a stem of Tulip is not
very unusual,

including some very distinct forms of O. X arden-
tissimum, also O. x Wiganianura, a choice hybrid
which obtained an Award of Merit.

Messrs. Low & Co., Enfield, obtained an Award
of Merit for Cypripedium Venus Low's variety.

Messrs. H. J. Craven and Messrs. Keeling &
Sons received votes of thanks for exhibits. P. If.

MANCHESTER & NORTH OF ENGLAND
ORCHID.

January ii. — There was a good display of plants
at the meeting held on the above date.

E. AsHWORTH, Esq., Wilm^low (gr. Mr. Hol-
brook), staged a nice collection of Lslia anceps,
in variety. Noticeable among these were L. a. var.
15allantineana, L. a. var. grandiflora Chamber-
lain's variety, L. a. var. Schroderiana, and L. a.
Bull's alba. (Silver Medal.)

A. Warburton, Esq,, Haslingdeu (gr. Mr.
Raven), exhibited several good Cypripediums.
C. X Germain Opoix was one of the best, and
received an Award of Merit; C. x Victor, and a
distinct form of C. X auream were also noted.
(Vote of thanks.)

J. Leemann, Esq., Heaton Mersey (gr. Mr.
Smith), sent some good plants, amongst which
Were Cypripedium x Winslo 1 Churchill, a sup-
posed hybrid between C. insigne x C. Sallieri
var. Hyeanum. (First Class Certificate.) Cypri-
pedium X luminosum, from the same owner,
received an Award of Merit.

O. O. Wriglev, Esq., Bury (gr. Mr. Rogers).
staged some good Cypripediums, viz., Ci x
Kitty, C. X Ajax, and C. X Lathamianum,
Wrigley's variety, each of which obtained an
Award of Merit. (Vote of thanks for group.)

G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawtenstall (gr.
Mr. Shill), obtained an Award of Merit for Cypri-
pedium X Edmond Lord, and a Silver Gilt
Medal for a very nice group, principally of
Cypripediums.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Bradford, staged
a charming group of plants, consisting of good
Odontoglossums, Cypripediums and Laelio-Cat-
tleyas, Brasso-Laelia " Mrs. Gratrixvar. magnifica"
was given an Award of Merit, a similar award
being voted for Lselio-Cattleya X Wellsiana.

Vote of thanks were awarded to Messrs. Stanley
& Co., D. McLeod, M. Ch. Vuylsteke, H.
Low & Co., and Keeling & Sons for exhibits.
P. W.

January 25. — A capital exhibition was made on
the above date.

A group was contributed by Messrs. Cypher &
Sons, of Cheltenham, to which a Silver Gilt Medal
was awarded. Cypripedium x Charlesianum
Cypher's variety was one of the best in this group,
but was not shown for Certificate ; C. x villexul.
a cross between C. viUosum X C. exul, obtained
an Award of Merit.

G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawtenstall (gr.
Mr. Shill), obtained a Silver Medal for a group of
Cypripediums and Odontoglossums, and an Award
of Merit for Cypripedium X Euryades Low's
variety.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Bradford, were
awarded a Bronze Medal for a small and very
select group of Lselio-Cattleya hybrids and Odon-
toglossoms.

S. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr. Mr.
Cypher), obtained Awards of Merit for two good
Cypripediums, viz., C. X Rex and C. X Head-
landianum, the latter a richly-coloured flower of
great size.

A. Warburton, Esq., Haslingden (gr. Mr.
Raven), obtained a First Class Certificate for
Cypripedium x Mrs. Mostyn Chardwar variety,
and C. X Watsonianum. C. X Germain Opoix
was also shown.

E. Ashworth, Esq., Wilmslow (gr. Mr. Hol-
brook), exhibited Cattleya Trianaei var. Harefield
Goliath, a wonderfully fine form. (Award of
Merit.)

M. Ch. Vuylsteke, Ghent, obtained a Silver
Medal for a choice lot of Odontoglossum hybrids,

SOCIETE ROYALE LINNEENNE ET DE
FLORE, BRUSSELS.

January 21. — The first meeting, held on this
date, by the conjoint Societies of Brussels, the
L:nnfenne and the Flore, was an unequivocal
success.

Two hundred and thirty-one plants were ex-
hibited. The jury awarded four diplomas of
honour, 58 certificates, and 23 commendations.
The jury was divided into four sections.

The principal awards on this occasion were made
to Orchids from MM. Lambeaux, Vuylsteke, J. Hye
de Crom, Duchesne, Lanthonie, Putzeys, Pauwels,
Draps-Dom, Van de Putte, Madame Madoux, and
others.

Botanical certificates w ere awarded to Habenaria
procera, a species from the Congo, flowering for
the first time in Belgium, and to Satyrium odorum
from the Brussels Botanic Garden.

Chinese Primroses, Cyclamens, were shown, as
well as Anthurium Rothschildianum Pteris metal-
lica, Hymenodium crinitum, Eugenia myriophylla,
Selaginella Africana, and Codizeum "Norman
MacLeod," which all received recognition, as did
also a collection of Pears, including Olivier de
Serres, Besi de Chaumontel, Beurre Ranee, Passe
Crassane, Josephine de Malines, Bergamot
Esperen, besides others less familiar to English
readers.

The next meeting will be held in the Forestry
Museum of the Brussels Botanic Gardens on
February iS.

IRISH GARDENERS' BENEVOLENT.

January 25. — The members of the above society
held their annual meeting on the above date, Mr.
F. W. Moore, A.L.S., presiding over a good
attendance. The annual report stated that the
year 1905 would r,T,nk as one of the most success-
ful experienced. The amount paid out in benefit
(/30) was the largest on record ; yet by economy
of working expenses the balance showed a sub-
stantial increase. Numerous papers on gardening
topics were read during the year, including those
by Mr. Houston, of the Department of Agriculture.
The members also enjoyed some profitable outings.
The accounts showed a balance on hand of over
/141, as against ;fi2i the previous year. On
the motion of the chairman, seconded by Mr.
Longmuir, the report was unanimously adopted,
after which Mr. Moore delivered a lecture on
Palms.

BRITISH GARDENERS' ASSOCIATION.

At a recent meeting of the Ealing Gardeners'
Mutual Improvement Society, Mr. J. Weathers,
secretary of the British Gardeners' Association,
delivered an address to the members upon the
aims and objects of tliis association.

Mr. Weathers said one of the main objects of
the association was to persuade all trained gar-
deners in the United Kingdom to unite into one
strong association instead of remaining as power-
less units isolated from each other all over the
country.

Although the association had been instruincutui
in filling situations, Mr. Weathers maintained tnat,
if the association only succeeded in weeding out
from the ranks of the gardening profession all
those who had no claim whatever to the title of
gardener, it would have accomplished a work that
would confer a lasting benefit upon real gardeners
throughout the length and breadth of the land.

The question of wages and hours of labour were
at present not of such paramount importance, a d
any attempt to make them the cardinal points in
the association's programme would be likely to
result in disaster. There would be a natural, and
almost automatic, improvement in these directions
in the course of time when trained gardeners of
all grades agreed to work together for tlie common
good.

No one could possibly object to gardeners
uniting into combination for the protection of
their common rights in the same way as doctors,
lawyers, teachers, and members of many other
professions.

Indeed, employers, and the public generally,
should look upon the British Gardeners' Associa-
tion as their best friend. At present hundreds of
gardens were being ruined because the owners
had no means of knowing whether the men they
employed were really qualified gardeners or not.
Even the person who employs a jobbing gardener
one or two days a week should ascertain whether
the man employed understands his business, other-
wise, as is at present often the case, the ignorant
mdividual who poses as a gardener will do as
much mischief in half an hour as a bull would do
in a china shop in the same time.

Eventually it was decided to form a branch of
the association at Ealing, the members to decide
upon a secretary at their next meeting.

GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES.

BIRMINGHAM AND MIDLJVND COUNTIES
GARDENERS' MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT.— The

annua! meeting of the abuve association was huld at the
Ailiietic Institute, John Bright Street, Birmingham, oii
Monday, January 15, when the balance sheet was presented
and the committee for the present year elected ; it was also
decided to hold a social gathering at the Colonnade Hotel,
New Street, on February 21, to celebrate the 20th anniversary
of the association. The balance sheet showed that the
expenses for the year amounted to £68 4s. 2d., and the
receipts to £56 gs. 8d. The assets amount to £"366 15s. 4d.
and include the Guthrie Investment £274 11s. gd. Books '\\\
Hbrary are valued at £76 5s. id., etc., etc. The show of early
Chrysanthemums was successful, and being helped by
donations and a contribution from the general account of
£z 19s. 6d. the expenses were covered. The following
papers will be read during the present sessions : Febru-
ary 12— "The Primula." Mr. C. H. Herbert, The Nurseries,
HazeUvood Road, Acocks Green ; February 26— Discussion
on the advisability of holding a Summer Excursion and
Question Night; March 12— "The Dahlia." Mr. G. W. Kerr
Manager to Messrs. Baker & Sons, Old Hall Nurseries, Cod-
sail ; March 26—" Alpine Plants." Mr. R. Cock, F.R.H.S.
Horticultural Lecturer to the Staffordshire County Council ;
April 9—" The Carnation." Mr. W. H. Parton, Kingswood
Grange, Hollywood ; April 23 — "The Pruning of Hardy
Trees." Mr. E. Burden, The Nurseries, Billesley Lane,
King's Heath. An Early Flowering Chrysanthemum and
Dahlia Show will be held at the Botanical Gardens, o\\
October 3 and 4. Schedules will be sent out in due course.

BOURNEMOUTH GARDENERS'.— At the meeting
of the above Society, held on Tuesday, January i6th, at the
Avenue Restaurant, Bournemouth, Mr. C. Nippard in the
chair, Mr. J. Stevenson, Gardener to the Duke of Hamilton,
Wimborne, gave a lecture entitled " Some Notes on Peas.'*
The lecturer gave the results obtained from different varie-
ties, and demonstrated the value of an intelligent selection
of sorts best suited for particular localities. Mr. Stevenson
exhibited a fine collection of Apples in 18 varieties.

CROYDON AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.—

This society opened their new session on Tuesday, i6tl»
ult., when a paper on "Primulas" was given by Mr. G.
Gumbrell, the Lodge Gardens, Widbury, Herts., from
which the following extracts are taken. Sow the seed
thinly about March and April, or it may be sown in
August, and covered with sand or finely sifted soil. Place the
seed pans in a temperature of 55 to 65 degrees, and cover
them with glass to prevent evaporation. Constant care in
watering must be exercised at all times. When the seedlings
are vigorous place them on a shelf near the glass, and when
big enough prick them off into boxes, where they may be
allowed to gradually harden off. They may then be planted
into 3-inch or 4-inch pots. When good root growth is made
remove them into 5-inch or 6-inch pots for flowering, using a
mixture of two parts loam, one part leaf soil, one part spent
mushroom bed and sand, and a little mortar rubble or char-
coal, with the addition of a small quantity of bone meal. A
slight sprinkling of water night and morning should be
given, and when the plants are well established give abund-
ance of air, whilst protecting them from strong sunshine.
Remove the flowering spikes till good root action is made.
By the end of September they may be removed to the green-
house and placed near to the glass, in which position they
may be given plenty of ventilation but must not be allowed,
to experience cold araughts. Double varieties are best pro-
pagated from cuttings and should be treated In a similar
manner to the seedlings. A good discussion, by the members
followed.

Close upon a hundred members and friends of the above
society assembled at the Greyhound Hotel, Croydon, on
Wednesday, 24th ult., on the occasion of the society's
sixth annual dinner, which function Invariably proves one
of the most enjoyable of its kind. The Vice-chairman, Mr.
G. J. Ingram, in submitting the toast of "The Society,"
said : — During the past year they had had 19 meetings, but
only two discussions, and had also held a very successful
spring show. He congratulated the society upon having
a very capable working committee. They were also fortu-
nate in having at their head a gentleman who always took a
keen interest in horticultural matters. The secretary and
the treasurer also received a word of praise. Mr. Boshler^
Hon. Sec, on rising to respond, met with a cordial recep-
tion. He asked the members to attend in as large numbers
as possible, and so encourage the lecturers and committee
in their endeavours to make the society a success. After a
good deal of consideration the committee had found it ad-
visable to make provision for a microscope, which could be
used at meetings and by the members.

REDHILL, REIGATE AND DISTRICT GAR-
DENERS'.— A meeting of the above society was held on
Tuesday, i6th ult. ; Mr. W. P. Bound in the chair. A paper
on " Vine Culture," written by Mr. C. E. Salter, was read
in the writer's absence by his father, Mr. C.J. Salter, of
Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate. The paper dealt in an able
manner with propagation, pruning, ventilation, and the
formation of vine borders. A discussion followed the
paper. F.C.L.

80

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[FEr,r,UARY 3, 1£06.

EGHAM AND DISTRICT GftRDENEaS'. - At

the meeting of this society iield on January 17, Mr. A. bturt
in the chair, Mr. W. bvvan, of Thornecote Gardens, Staines,
read a paper on "Orchids." The essayist described the
habits of growth, and the flowering and resting period of
many species and varieties of these flowers. He also stated
the most suitable temperatures in which to grow them,
proper materials for polling and basketing, hints on hybri-
disation, Sk. a discussion followed. A group of Freezias
was exhibited by W. A. Stearns. T. J. W.

BIRKENHEAD AND DISTRICT HORTICUL-
TURAL.—The members of the above association assembled
on Thursday, iSth iilt.. in the Gordon Hall, Birkenhead,
when Mr. K. Home, The Gardens, Dawpool, Cheshire,
delivered a lecture on the "Cultivation of Calanthe
Veitchii." The lecturer gave full cultural details. He
recommended the potting of the pseudo bulbs singly, in
5j-inch pots during the month of March, in a compost of
three parts loam, one part moderately dry cow manure, and
one part woodash, with charcoal and fine gravel incorpo-
rated as the potting proceeds. The plants should be fed
with Clay's Fertiliser when the new growths have attained a
length of a foot, and be watered occasionally with a solution
of Ichthemic Guano. Never syringe the plants with water
overhead. Stand the plants on inverted pots over a bed of
coal ashes, and shade them when. bright sunshine appears.
Maintain a temperature of 70" to So" all through the growing
season, and withhold all stimulants from the time the first
flowers open. Maintain a drier atmosphere during the
flowering period, and also lower the temperature to 58' or
6o". Mr. Home exhibited well-grown plants of this deco-
rative Orchid. Herbert May.

CHESTER PAXTON.— The opening meeting of the
present session was held in the Grosvenor Museum, on
Saturday, the 20th ult., under the presidency of Mr. Robt.
Wakefield. Mr. J. D. Siddall was the lecturer, and he took
for his subject " South and West Cornwall." By the aid of
lantern slides, prepared from photographs taken by the lec-
turer himself, and dried specimens of the principal plants,
he described in an interesting manner the flora of these
districts. The beautiful and rugged scenery of these dis-
tricts was well portrayed in many of the lantern slides.
Amusing anecdotes bearing upon the habits and character-
istics of the seafaring population of Cornwall were also
related.

CARDIFF GARDENERS'.— The annual dinner of
the members of the above society was held at the Sandring-
ham Hotel, St. Mary Street, Cardiff, on Wednesday, a4th
inst. Mr. E. H. Battram presided, and a company of about
60 members and friends passed a very enjoyable evening.
The function was declared to be the most successful
gardeners' dinner ever held in Cardiff. The arrangements
were carried out by Mr. John Julian, the Hon. Secretary.

PANGBOURNE & DISTRICT GARDENERS' —

The fortnightly meeting of this association was held on
Wednesday, January 24, in the New Hall, Pangbourne. Mr.
D. Harris. Mapledurhani, presided over a record attendance
of members. After the formal business of the association
was concluded, the chairman called on Mr. W. E. Dix,
Gardener to Sir B. Baker, K.G., Bowden Green, Pangbourne,
to read a paper on "Sweet Peas and their Culture." The
essayist gave the history of the Sweet Pea, and also the
cultural details necessary for the production of good plants
and handsome blooms. He also explained the many uses
of this popular flower, both in the garden and also for table
decoration.

CHELMSFORD & DISTRICT GARDENERS'.—

At a recent well attended meeting of the above association
an essay on " Deciduous and Evergreen Flowering Shrubs,"
was read by Mr. Chandler, who dealt exhaustively with the
subject, and gave a long list of suitable subjects for planting.
W. C. S.

At the meeting held on Friday, January 26, before a large
gathering of the members, Mr. W. W. Bull read a paper on
"Bush Fruits." The essay dealt in a thoroughly practical
manner with the propagation, planting, and general culture
of these fruit trees. Special reference was made to birds in
the orchard.

TRADE NOTICES.

J. W. Moore, Ltd.— Mr. W. Mansell (for the last 12
years with Messrs. Charlesworth & Co.) has takea over
the management and the principal proportion of the shares
of Messrs. J. W. Moore, Ltd., Orchid Importers, Rawdon,
nr. Leeds.

SCHEDULES RECEIVED.

Southampton Royal Horticultural Society's
Summer Carnation and Autumn Exhibitions to be
held on June 27, July 20, and November 6 and 7
respectively.

ENQUIRIES.

What is Pinus Malletti ? \¥here is it do-
scribed ? It is not in the ordinary hsts. X.

Loughborough Boiler, — Can any gardener
who has been using the Loughborough Boiler give
his opinion as to how long a No. 3 size should
last ? We liave had one here in use for nearly
nine years, and now it has cracked in several
places. I may say the boiler is embedded in
cement, which cannot allow gradual contraction.
It is suggested the boiler ought to have lasted at
least ten years longer. H. H., Kerry.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*/f* Editor and Publisher. — Our Correspondents would
obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communica-
tions, and save us much time and trouble, if they would
kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the efiect
that all letters relating to financial matters and to
advertisements should be addressed to the Publisher :
and that all communications intended for publication, or
referring to the I^iterary department, and all plants to be
named, should be directed to the Editor. The two
departments. Publishing and Editorial, are quite distinct,
and much unnecessary delay and confusion arise when
letters are misdirected.
Books: W.E.A. We are unable to tell you what
the books you mention would be likely to fetch
at a sale. The edition of Miller's Dictionary
(the eighth), whicli you have, is the only one
of much value nowadays, as it is tlie first in
which the Linnean system was adopted. We
should advise you to consult some second-hand
bookseller.
Cymbidium Lowianum : T. B. This Orchid is
practically a greenhouse plant, and the atmos-
pheric temperature you give as the minimum is
in excess of that required. Especially should
this cool-house section of Cymbidium be sub-
jected to a lower temperature at night than in
the day, and when expanding their blooms a
rather dry atmosphere is necessary. The flower
spikes you have sent us seem to indicate that
the atmosphere of the house containing the
plants has been too warm, moist and imperfectly
ventilated.
Cymbidium Tracv.'vnum losing Buds : A. E. B..
Gravcsend. Protracted, dull weather, and fogs
often cause the loss of flowers in winter in the
manner you describe. But your Cymbidium
has probably been kept in a too warm and moist
atmosphere. See answer to T. B.
Flannel Flower of Australia: /. G. G. The
name might be applied to several genera indi-
genous to the Colony, and remarkable for pos-
sessing tomentum. such as Ammobium, Heli-
pterum, and Helichrysum.
Fruit Trees ; II'. P. If the tenant is a nursery-
man or market gardener he may remove them,
but otherwise the tenant should not take away
or destroy the trees he has planted on the
ground. This is, of course, after notice of
termination of tenancy has been given by one
or the other parties to the contract. Consult a
solicitor.
Grubs in Vallota purpurea : A. J. Bliss. The
specimen you sent is undoubtedly the larva of
the Narcissus fly, Merodon narcissi. Your record
is interesting, but the larvae do not confine their
attacks to the various species and varieties of
Narcissi ; they have been found to be destruc-
tive to many rare and beautiful Hippeastrum
hybrids, &c.
Jasmine : IV. B. The white Jasmine is a shy
flowering plant in many places. Encourage free
growth and preserve the long trailing shootsj
pruning sufficiently only to admit the necessary
light and air. Remove the tree's fastenings in
the autumn in order to allow the air and light
to circulate freely amongst the shoots, that they
may become well ripened. Jasmines require
plenty of space over which to ramble at will.
Mendel's Theory : Corrcspoiuknt. It is difficult
to compress an account of this theory into the
space at our disposal for Answers to Corres-
pondents. Mendel crossed certain varieties (not
species), with marked contrasting characters ; for
instance, smooth skinned Peas and wrinkled
seeded Peas. In the first generation the offspring
was uniform, the ' ' dominant ' ' character asserting
itself over the "recessive," which was latent.
On crossing them again, a mixed progeny made
its appearance, the "dominant" character ap-
pearing in the proportion of three to one of the
recessive so that the hybridiser has first to find
out what is dominant and what recessive, and then
to arrange that the dominant, if that is what he
wants, shall assert itself in the proportion of three
to one. The dominant character may, under
certain conditions, lose its predominance and
become recessive and vice veisa, and so by careful
study and experiment hybridisation, instead of
being a haphazard procedure, may gradually be
regularised and its results obtained with some-
thing like numerical precision.
Moss-FiBRE FOR BuLBS : X. Y. Z. You will pro-
bably be able to obtain particulars concerning
the cultivation of bulbs in moss-fibre by writing
to M ■. R, Sydenham, Seedsman, Tenby Street,
Biraiinghain. We do not know of a book upon
roof gardening.

Names of Plants : C. 11'. S. Psidium Cattley-
anum, the Guava. — A. D. The specimen sent
is a form of Cypripedium x Leeanum. It is a
form which has reverted towards C. villosum,
or it may have a touch of an allied form, but in
effect it is as stated above. — W. K. i, Abies
bracteata ; 2, Juniperus virginiana var. ; 3,
Abies cephalonica (?) ; 4, Abies Pinsapo ; 5,
Abies nobilis ; 6, Sequoia sempervirens.

Peach Shoots : C. B. The appearance of the
shoots shows that the real cause of trouble is
the root. Too much water and imperfect drain-
age. There is no fungus disease present.

Perennial Flowering Plants : F. F. S. The
following will be found suitable for your
purposes : Anemone japonica. Antirrhinums,
Michaelmas Daisies, Campanula pyramidalis.
Red Valerian, Carnations, Pinks, Doronicum,
Lathyrus latifolius. Lupins, Lychnis chalce-
donica, Oriental I'oppies, Scabiosa caucasica,
TroUius europojus, Solidago, Rudbeckias, Sun-
flowers, Saponaria, Yeratrum album, Silene
acaulis, and Saxifrages in variety.

Plants Suitable for a North Border : IK. H.
N. Christmas roses, Petasites fragrans. Del-
phiniums, Aconitum, Agrostemma coronaria,
Anemone fulgens. Antirrhinums, Epilobium
angustifolium. Snowdrops, Narcissi, and many
other bulbous plants, Polemonium cceruleum.
Primulas and Polyanthus, Vinca major, Violets,
Pyrethrums, Perennial Asters (Michaelmas
Daisies), Solidago, Hypericums, Chrysanthe-
mum maximum. Saxifragas. Campanula pyra-
midalis. Chrysanthemums, &c. The foregoing
species are all perennials, but not entirely her-
baceous. With regard to the other question
you ask, we have not read the pamphlet in
question, and can ofl'er no opinion on the
subject.

Potatos : /. B., Ciulisle. You should send your
specimens to the Royal Horticultural Garden.
Wisley, Surrey, or to the Secretary of the
National Potato Society, Postling Vicarage,
near Hythe, Kent. To allow tubers to heat or
sweat in heaps would no doubt greatly facilitate
the growth of the fungus, but such a practice
was certainly not the first cause of the Potato
disease.

Privet attacked by Grubs: C. F. M. The
twigs are apparently injured by the larva or
caterpillar of a Noctuid moth ; but the speci-
men you sent was dead and shrivelled, there-
fore we cannot fix the species. If you will
forward us living examples we will endeavour
to rear the perfect insect.
Scale Insects on Palms: A. W. Aspidiotus
dictyospermi on Kentia Belmoreana. This
species is fairly common on various species of
Palms in this country. Ischnaspis filiformis, or
black-thread scale, on Areca lutescens, together
with a few examples of Diaspis boisduvalii.
Both insects are common greenhouse pests in
this country.
Sedges on Pcor Land : V. F. P. No. i is the
creeping underground stem of a species of Carex.
The other specimen is a grass — probably a
species of Agrostis. Sedges are usually associ-
ated with poor, wet land, on which grass
will not succeed well. If your land is water-
logged it should be suitably drained, and receive
a heavy dressing of farmyard manure in order
to encourage the growth of grasses, which will
in time crowd out the sedges. Road sweepings,
old potting soil, or any similar materials form a
valuable top-dressing for poor grass land. Be-
fore making the application use the wooden
rake freely o\er the surface, and afterwards
drag the grass with a brush-haiTow.
Violets Diseased : IK. B. The plants are at-
tacked by a fungus, Ascochyta violae. Spray
them with a solution of potassium sulphide,
using one ounce of this chemical to three
gallons of water every fortnight. If the disease
is rampant, plant a fresh bed in another part of
the garden, using new stock obtained from a
healthy bed, but do not neglect to burn all the
diseased plants and the surface soil from the
ground in which they are growing.

Communications RECEiviiD. — T. H. C. — C. J.— G. P.—
Pink — G. L. H. — J.M., Totnes (Photograph) can you send
us a few twigs and an old leaf ? -T. C— C. B. — H. H. T.
VV.G. B.— Cayeux and Le Clerc— H. L. & Co.-D. A.—
J. 'W.— R. Rl.— Royal Horticultural Society— F. B.—
G. L. H.— J. M.-W. A. C— J. L.— F. M.— A. B.~J. C,
Bagshol-D. R.-E. M.-T. H. C.-W. F.-^W. J. T.—
A. Y. L.— J. O. C— E. B.— F. W.— C. B.— Mac. -K. F.

For Market Reports, see f'nge xvi.

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THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

81

THE

No. 99S.—SATURDA\\ February JO, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Apple Charles Ross ... DO

Bananas t^9

Begonia Gloire de Lor-
raine 90

Benevolent Institution,
Royal Gardeners' ... 89

Books, notices of —
Botanical Magazine ... 89
Florist Flura'of New

South Wales ... 90
L'Art de Forcer ... b9
Roses, and how to
grow them 85

Botanic Gardens, St.
Petersburg 90

Bullfinches and fruit
buds 90

Carnations, winter-
flowering 91

Chrysanthemum Baron
deVinols 91

Chrysanthemums, an ex-
hibit of 89

Cultural memoranda,
Achimenes, Tyda;as,
&c ?i

Fern, a rare 01

Flowers in season ... 90

F'oreign correspondence t;-!

Gardening in Stafl'ord-
shire 89

Hardy flower border ... 8G

Helianthus tubers as a
vegetable 90

Hippeastrums at Tring
Park ... 90

Hydrocyanic acid gas as
an insecticide 85

Illustrations of vege-
tables and flowers ...

Iris tuberosa

Kew notes

Kniphofias and their
culture

Manures for Hops

Nicotiana Saiiderfe

N ursery employees at
dinner

Obituary —
I,ye, James

Orchid notes and glean-
ings-
Orchids at Rosslyn ...

Park, an American

Potato tubers, variation in

Propagating bouse, a new

Rhododendron beds,
plants for

Societies —
British Gardeners' —
National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural 90,

Sugar industry in
Queensland

Timber crops, the value
of

Vegetables, a new

Week's work, the —

.\piary, the

Flower garden, the ...
Fruits under glass ...
Hardy fruit garden ...
Kitchen garden, ihe...
Orchid houses, the ...
Plants under glass ...

91

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Adventitious buds on the flower stalk of Kniphofia ..- 81
Chrysanthemums, a gold-medal group of (,Supplemcn-

tary Illustr^ tion)

Kniphofia Mactwani S3

Kniphofia Nelsi ni 83

Lye, James, the late, and one of his prize groups of

Fuchsia 94

KNIPHOFIAS AND THEIR
CULTURE.

RECENT introductions of species of Kni-
pliofia, or Tritoma, as they are more
frequently called, and the good pro-
ducts of skilful h5rbridists who have
raised new colour varieties from species
already well known, have increased the
garden value of this genus. Many of
the older species, such as K. Aloides, are
undoubtedly coarse plants both in flower,
colour and habit of spike — they are plants
to be used, massed for distant effect, for
the better furnishing of large belts of shrub-
bery, where fiowers are desired, and for kind-
red uses in the garden landscape, but their
utility in the flower garden was never very
great.

Kniphofias have kept pace with the im-
provement manifest in many hardy plants of
value for borders, and they can now be
had in many fascinating shades of colour,
ranging from creamy white through all
shades of yellow, apricot, cortfl, red and
crimson, either self-coloured or in the two or
three contrasting shades peculiar to the
group. In stature they vary from slender,
multi-flowered, grassy tufts a foot in height

that would grace any rockery, to noble plants
that have been rendered still more unfit for
small gardens, but which have a grand effect
in large borders and in the garden landscape.
In the older K. .Moldes tha plant was far too
large, and the stems much too thick for the
size of spike; in these newer forms the in-
florescence is proportionately much larger,
but the greater gain is in the elimination
from the newer hybrids of the glaucous grey
colouring of the buds of the old species, and
in the production of much longer spikes.
Forms that are intermediate in stature often
give us the refined, shapely inflorescences in
sheaves, and here we find the very best border
plants in a great variety of new colours such
as would astonish one who is accustomed to
regard Knijihofias as " red hot pokers."

Fig. 36. — SHOWING adve.ntitious bud.s o.n the

FLOWER STALK OF A KNiniOFIA, BY MEANS OF WHICH
PROPAGATION MAY SOMETIMES BE EFFECTED.

Practically all the best Kniphofias are quite
hardy in Britain, a few of the broad-leaved,
Agave-like species are a little tender, and two
of the small-flowered grassy species are not
hardy ; but as the former group has good
hardy representatives, and the latter group is
of limited garden value, they cannot be con-
sidered much loss. In most cases the slen-
der, grassy Kniphofias winter well in a light,
Vifell-drained soil, and are not otherwise difli-
cult to manage, but all varieties are bene-
fited by a mulch of strawy manure placed
over the roots should frost threaten when
newly planted.

Many of the species have well-marked char-
acters that render their identification easy,
but with those species that have been in cul-
tivation for some considerable time difficul-
ties arise owing to a natural variation from

the given type. Seedlings vary from the
parent plant in a remarkable manner, too,
and where red-flowered forms and species arc
grown together, bees and other insects, by iii-
terpollination, render it impossible to carry a
species through more than one generation
without obtaining remarkable variation in
the shape and colour of the flowers, as well
as in the habit of the plants ; detailed descrip-
tions of such plants, therefore, are more an
embarrassment than help to the grower who
seeks to cultivate an acquaintance with
them, and in the following notes on the
species and varieties of Kniphofia, the chief
characters from the gardener's point of "\tw
are dealt with mainly.

Early winter and early spring are the best
seasons for moving and planting Kniphofias,
and it is preferable in naturally retentive soils
to cover the crowns with but 3 inches of
soil, or decay may ensue ; their own contrac-
tile roots will pull the plants deeper into the
ground as growth goes on. Firm planting
is desirable, and the roots should be spread
apart to ensure good anchorage and thus
prevent frosts lifting the plants above the
ground level and exposing the rootstock.
If the plantation is a new one and the plants
have to be purchased, only those should be
chosen whose leaves and roots are uncut.
Many nurserymen still follow the unfortunate
practice of trimming the roots and leaves of
Kniphofias close to the rootstock, treating the
plants as though they were deciduous bulbs —
nothing can be more detrimental to the
plant's welfare than this. The shortened
leaves form a perfect funnel to conduct water
to the rootstock in the depth of winter, and
the mutilated roots are in a soddcned state
and quite inactive for months afterwards ;
the wounds cannot heal, and decay ensues as
a matter of course. A well-rooted plant, hav-
ing plenty of good le;ives, can protect itself
from excess of wet and thrive where a muti-
lated stump would quickly die out. I have
several times had occasion to condemn this
practice, and I have noted with satisfaction
that others have entered their protests in
these columns from time to time.

All Kniphofias are quite hardy save those
species which flower in winter. K. modesta,
K. multiflora, and K. longicoUis are the least
hardy, but these winter well if they are able
to perfect their flowers before severe frosts
occur. The frost-stricken flower stems de-
caying to the base cause the plants more
harm than that resulting from frosts. One
cannot, however, recommend these species
for general planting except in the south-
western counties. K. Rooperi, K. Northise,
and K. Leichtlinii are often " hit " badly,
but survive and flower freely in dry soils and
in naturallv warm positions. The hybrid race
of garden Kniphofias are generally quite
hardv once established, but need covering in
cold counties in winter.

SPECIES AND VARIETIES.

K. aloides (Uvaria). — The old-time species,
which, in conjunction with K. Burchelli,
Leichtlinii, foliosa and Macowani, has given
us a host of garden forms of hybrid origin,
varying greatly in every detail. The type plant
has dark-green leaves in tufts, and stout
spikes of flowers 4-6 inches long, the buds
of which are of glaucous grey colour, and the
developed flowers of dull red. passing to a
dingy yellow at the throat as they mature.
The spike is only twice as thick as the stem
at its base, and the flowers are closely packed
together. There are five distinct varieties

8^

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[I'EBRUAKY 10, 1906.

;ind these are as follows : — glauccscens, a
iflorified aloides with spreading glaucous
foliage two or three yards across, and stout
spikes of deep red flowers produced in Octo-
ber ; grandijlora (longiscapa), the spike of
which is massive, the florets distended at the
throat and poised at right angles with the
stem ; the free lobes are very long and re-
flex fully ; colour a deep glowing coral red
passing to orange. A wonderfully free-

There is no yellow colouring at the base of
the inflorescence. It flowers regularly from
August onwards, and the plant is not too
coarse for planting in the smallest garden.
Saundersii. — A vigorous form introduced
twenty years ago, with stout spikes of rich
red flowers passing to brick-red with age.
Every flower stands at right angles with the
stem. October.

A', hrcvijlora. — A rare species that might

Fig. 37. — KNIPHOFI.\ NELSONI ; COLOUR, BRIGHT CORAL-RED.

frhe section through tlie flower and the fragment of the leaf are magnified 2 diameters,
the pollen grains 200 diameters.)

flowering variety which blooms in August
and September; nobilis — massive spikes 7
to S feet in height, bearing distended orange-
red coloured flowers 2 inches long, closely
packed together to form a cone-shaped in-
florescence a foot in length. The buds are
crimson and devoid of any glaucous tint, and
the flowers are canary yellow. .'\t its best
d'-ring September. Pfitzeri.—\ showy, al-
most self-coloured form with very large long
spikes of orange scarlet flowers, crimsoned
buds, and yellowish tinted throat internally.

be treated as a rock plant. The leaves
are narrow and grassy, produced in tufts 2
feet high and through. The flower spikes
develop in quantity during October, and they
have short cones of lemon yellow-coloured
flowers an inch long, tubular in outline and
with refle.xed lobes. Si.xty spikes from a
small clump are not an unusual number, and
the plant appears to be exceptionally fitted
for cultivation in a rockery. It is figured in
Bot. Mag., t. 7,570. An apricot-coloured,
and a white form are in cultivation. .\

charming species, totally unlike the majority
of Kniphofias.

K. Burclielli. — A showy and valuable species
that differs but little from some forms of K.
aloides in habit and colouring. It is a
sturdy, compact plant, producing throughout
summer a series of showy spikes of deep orange-
scarlet-coloured flowers, generally more than
one foot in length of spike and of uniform
colouring throughout, e.tcept that the spent
flowers show more orange than red in their
colouring. A refined Torch Lily whose bril-
liant flower spikes can be singled out of a col-
lection by their symmetry and the glowing
flame-like depth of colour both inside and out-
side the expanded flower tubes. K. aloides var.
Pfitzeri too often does duty for this species in
gardens, but K. Burchelli may always be recog-
nised by its reddish orange base and longer
spikes produced two or three together.

K. caulesccns. — A distinct plant producing
stout fleshy stems, which branch dich&iomously
at intervals of a foot or tV.^reabouts, forming a
stout tree several feet ni height, bearing huge
rosettes of thick glaucous green. Aloe-like
leaves, 2-3 feet long in well-grown specimen.'-.
The flowers are borne in stout spikes 2 feet in
hc;,,ht, the actual inflorescence being 6-8 inches
in. length, coloured brick red with a glaucous
sheen throughout, the flowers passing to a
greenish yellow as they age. The inflorescence
lacks refinement, and the plant always has an
untidy mass of dead foliage clinging firmly to
its stems, yet it is valuable for association with
the larger order of rock plants. Yuccas, Eryn-
giums, and other evergreen plants of kindred
types. Its flower spikes are produced in June,
and they invariably show traces of injury bv
frosts in a nascent state if the season is late and
the position devoid of shelter.

A.', citrina. — A pretty plant of garden origin,
whose neat habit and quaint flowers are very
pleasing. The leaves are produced in Eulalia-
like tufts 2 feet across, and are an ornament in
any border. The spikes appear in quick suc-
cession from August onwards, and bear cones
of pale canary yellow flowers, the buds of which
are greenish, changing to straw yellow as they
open, and the spent flowers are tinted dull
white. The spikes are symmetrically cone-
shaped, and they rarely exceed 3 feet in heighi
when bearing flowers. Many people appreciate
the delicate colouring and pretty habit of this
choice plant. Its hybrid descendants are even
more beautiful.

A." comosa. — A charming little Kniphofia from
Abyssinia, forming grassy tufts 2 feet in height
and producing elegant, attenuated spikes of
lemon yellow-coloured flowers with short tubes
and exserted anthers. It proves to be a hopeless
plant for the English climate, and is at present
exceedingly rare. K. recurvata I have some-
times seen labelled iK. comosa splendens ir gar-
dens.

A', corallina. — The prettiest Kniphoira for
small gardens. It forms an elegant tuft of nar-
row leaves 2 feet long, and produces sheaves of
coral-red flowers of exceptional richness ; no
glaucous-grey or yellow colouring finds a place
in this charming plant. It is among the first V)
flower and maintains a rich display throughout
autumn. The flowers being mainly sterile, the
plants suffer no tax in respect to seed produc-
tion. K. Macowani is one parent and K. Bur-
chelli is probably the other.

K. longicollis. — A tender species from Natal
flowering in early winter. It is a slender-
growing plant, growing 3 feet in height and hav-
ing grassy leaves and long spikes of pretty deep
yellow flowers. It is likely to prove of value to
the hybridist as a means of introducing refine-
ment into the coarser species, and may yet prove
amenable to cultivation in the open borders
when reared from seeds in the open, as was
originally done with K. breviflora.

K. Macowani (see Fig 38).— A remarkably
pretty plant that one can recommend confi-
deatly. It is of tufted growth, rarely exceeding

Febelarv 10, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

83

2 feet in height. The scapes are produced in
great numbers throughout autumn, and they
bear small and few flowered but pretty inflo-
rescences coloured a deep coral red with darker
tips. It is a choice little plant, and very easy
to grow. The flowers are small and tubular,
with reflexing lobes, and they are closelj'
pressed to the scape, forming a very neat cone.
Many seedling forms are now grown, but most
of them lack the pretty habit of the type. Brtl-
Hani is the only vaiiety I can recommend. It
is twice as large as the type and equall_v choice.
K. modesta. — A somewhat tender Natal species
that I have not tried in the open. It resembles
Nelsoni in leafage, and bears long tapering
scape* Btudded at intervals of half-an-inch with

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ing September. Old-established clumps thriv-
ing in light sandy soil, give from 30 to 60 spikes
in a season. The inflo»escen»e is comparatively
few-flowered, but very graceful — each flower is
seen in perfect outline. They measure about 2
inches in length, are quite tubular, coloured a
ruddy coral tint, and have reflexing petal lobes.
It should have a place on the rockery where
shelter can be given, and it has a splendid
effect if massed among choice plants in border.s.
It is preferable to start newly acquired plants
in pots before planting them out, or loss may
result. I have seen splendid plants in the
colder parts of Scotland thriving well in gritty
soils without protection. G. B. Mallett.
\^ro be continued.)

many grand blotched forms of Odontoglossum
crispum which are not yet in any other collec-
tion. These have often been admired, and some
have secured awards at the Royal Horticultural
Society, in whose list of awards, by a coinci-
dence, three of the best known forms of Odon-
toglossum crispum, viz., Persimmon, Pittias
and Pittianum are enumerated together as each
having secured a First-Class Certificate when
shown by Mr. Pitt, the next line recording O. c.
Prebendary Bevan, another of the Rosslyn varie-
ties which secured an Award of Merit. These
four alone cost the price at which many a good
collection of Orchids has been got together.

The Odontoglossums are housed in a range
of houses specially constructed for them, aad

FlCi. ^8. — KKIPHOFI.V MACOW.\NI ; COLOUR OF FLOWERS YELLOW, P.\SSING TO DEEP CORAL-RED.

short-tubed, distended, white flowers, whose
stamens and styles are much exserted. The in-
florescence is quite 2 feet long and closely re-
sembles that of Gasteria in habit. Useful only
as a parent in improving the hybrid race. Al-
though the plant possesses several pretty fea-
tures, its comparative raritj' and r-^puted tender-
ness are against its ever becoming much sought
after. It flowers in September in a cool house.
A'. Nelsoni (see fig. 37). — Few plants are
more admired than goodly tufts of Nelson's
Kniphofia. It is in many respects the gem of
the genus. Its Eulalia-like leaves ar^ produced
in dense, yet graceful, tufts 2 Jeet in height, and
as much in diameter ; the remarkably pretty
spikes are yielded in cons'ldcrable quantity dur-

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

ORCHIDS AT ROSSLYN, STAMFORD HILL.
The famous collection of H. T. Pitt, Esq., is
one of the richest and most varied in the Lon-
don district, and one of the few in which rare
species and varieties of pretty and curious
plants are now to be found. Cattleyas, Lselia.s,
and Cypripediums are great favourites, and the
best procurable in each section have been ob-
tained, and all have been cultivated well by Mr.
Thurgood, the gardener at Rosslyn. But of all
the specialities there the Odontoglossums, al-
though the most costly, have proved to be the
most satisfactory, and the collection embraces

despite their proximity to the great Metropolis,
they grow vigorously and flower well. Many
are sending up strong flower-spikes, and some
few are in flower. Among other varieties
coveted by the Odontoglossum specialist were
noted O. crispum F. K. Sander, known to be a
marvellous blotched variety, but which Mr. Pitt
thinks has never yet been seen at its best ; O. c.
Annie, O- c. Abner Hassall, O. c. xanthotes.
Snow Queen, and others which had gained
honours. Of fine varieties of species O. Hallii,
King Edward VII. and the purple-spotted O.
Pescatorei, Pitt's variety, take the lead in their
sections, as do O. x Wilckeanum Pittiae, and
Pitt's variety in that class. Odontoglossum x
Adrianse Cobbianum, with its pietty flower.-^

84

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 10, 1906.

heavily blotched with chestnut red ; O. grande
citrinura Pitt's variety, of a clear canary-yellow
colour ; O. cirrosura, Pitt's variety, with its
large heavily-blotched flowers, and the best
forms of O. crispum, give pointed examples of
wisely selected unique plants still holding their
own, notwithstanding the large number of each
of the species from which they were selected
having flowered since those varieties appeared.
Such experience gives the best excuse for the
enthusiasm of first-class Odontoglossum collec-
tors, as it plainly tells that the best forms will
always be rare.

The smaller Odontoglossuras occupy another
house, and in one corner is a small batch of
store pots of young seedling Odontoglossums
raised from the best blotched forms of O. cris-
pum and others in the collection. The object
here is rather to perpetuate and increase the
best blotched forms of O. crispum than to ob-
tain hybrids.

Another range in three divisions contains a
good selection of fine varieties of Laslia anceps,
L. a. Amesiana, Crawshay's variety, and L. a.
Schroderiana, Rosslyn variety, a fine white
variety which closely approaches L. a. Waddo-
niensis, being two of the best. The plants are
not allowed to make large masses with a number
of old back pseudo-bulbs, but are divided and
freed from such pseudo-bulbs, which make
vigorous plants in due time. In the next divi-
sion is a pretty specimen of Sophro-Laelia x
Psyche, with nine light scarlet flowers ; and an
equally good plant of Sophro-Cattleya x exi-
mia, together with other hybrids of Sophronitis
grandifiora. A batch of seedling Sobralias,
raised at Rosslyn, is showing flower for the first
time ; a specimen of the rare Phaius tetragonus,
and an interesting collection of Mormodes, Ca-
tasetums, Cycnoches, &c., are also in this range,
a part of which is fitted for the raising and per-
fecting of some promising hybrid Cattleyas,
Lcelias, &c.

The third division is filled with Dendrobiums,
some in bud and flower. The next range, also
in three divisions, has a fine collection of rare
Cypripediums, the hybrids of C. bellatulum, and
C. niveum being specially good. The difference
in the vigour of plants of the same cross is
shown by two plants of C. x Chapmani grow-
ing side by side. The older plant is still a com-
paratively small specimen, while its neighbour
is probably the largest plant of its kind in culti-
vation. Extra constitutional vigour in the larger
specimen appears to be the only explanation.
The delicately-tinted C. x Felicity, a yellow
form of C. X Barteti, C. x Ajax, a very large
and distinct flower ; C. x tessellatum porphy-
reum and some others are in bloom ; and among
curious and rare plants noted were Eulophia
pulchra, with four spikes ; E. virens, with three
spikes ; Trigonidium spatulatum, Epidendrum
polybulbon, a large mass of Bulbophyllum bar-
bigerum, a flowering specimen of B. occultum,
and other Bulbophyllums, and Cirrhopetalums ;
a singular Maxillaria of the Dicrypta section
with primrose-coloured flower ; a batch of Ada
aurantiaca, good masses of Sophronitis grandi-
fiora, Ornithidium Sophronitis ; a collection of
the best Cymbidiums, and a great variety of
species not often seen in private gardens.

The span-roofed Cattleya house has a fine
collection of the best varieties of species and
albinos as well as hybrids, most of which were
selected in flower. The show of flowers at pre-
sent consist of the varieties of Cattleya Trianssi
and a nice batch of the beautiful Oncidium
splendidum, which is seldom seen in such per-
fection. The position which it occupies in the
house suits it admirably, as the plants are in a
good light, and the atmosphere around them is
rot moist. Several of the plants have three

spikes of flowers on each, their large, clear,
yellow blooms making a fine display. Specially
interesting plants are Lfelio-Cattleya x Can-
hamiana, Rosslyn variety, of a bright purplish
rose colour, and of great size ; C. Schroderae,
Pitt's variety, with dark maroon colour on the
lip, and which constitutes one of the unique
varieties of the collection ; a good collection of
Brassavola Digbyana hybrids, one of them B.
Digbyana x Laelia majalis, approaching ma-
turity, being very promising.

The old warm house, which had been a Pine-
stove, has always suited the Phalaenopsis which
are suspended from the roof, the bed being oc-
cupied by a good stock of Eucharis amazonica,
which also thrives well. P. Schilleriana is in
flower. Another house contains a good collec-
tion of varieties of Cypripedium insigne, includ-
ing the best yellow forms ; a fine lot of
Caelogyne cristata well furnished with sprays of
white flowers. Here a large specimen of Aerides
Vandarum has several spikes of white flowers,
and Lffilia x Latona, and some others are in
bloom.

In the other house are many uncommon stove
and greenhouse plants, and a well-grown collec-
tion of coloured Codiaeums, Dracaenas, and
other decorative plants.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

MEXICO.

Professor J. G. Lemmon and Mrs. Lemmon,
the well-known botanists of Oakland, California,
write that they have been in Mexico for about
seven months. Some portion of their time has
been spent in the city, the remainder having been
passed in an exploration of the forests about
Orizaba, from which place they returned a few
days ago.

While in Orizaba they gathered a good many
specimens of Mexican trees, which they intend to
study closely after their arrival in California. All
their time while in Mexico has been devoted to the
study of trees, shrubs and flowers, and it is their
intention to return next year and continue this
study.

They were much impressed with the beauty of
the forests about Orizaba. According to their
statements, it would require many months to ex-
haust the possibilities of that section in regard to
botanical exploration and classification of trees.

The oaks collected are very numerous, as was
to be expected, and among the pines were Pinus
Montezumas of several forms, including the great
macrocarpa with cones 8-14 inches long ; I'.
Hartwegi, in several forms; P. pseudostrobus, in
several seemingly distinct forms ; P. leiophylla, in
beautiful condition, showing especially its cones of
three years' growth ; P. oocarpa, in beautiful con-
dition ; P. Arizonica and P. Mayiana and P.
Chihuahua, with a form perhaps of P. Ayacahuite
were re-collected on the way in fine form in the
Catalina Mts. of Arizona.

ENGLISH GARDENERS IN THE UNITED
STATES.

In the Gardeners' Chronicle for January 6th last a
note appeared in the " Answers to Correspon-
dents " column under the heading, " Situations in
the United States."

I should like to inform E. J. H. that the condi-
tion of gardening here is much better than in
England, and there is no difficulty in young, well-
trained gardeners getting good situations in this
country.

Head gardeners and superintendents experience
some trouble in securing good men, and New York
seedsmen are always glad to hear of men coming
from England, and are ready to answer any in-
quiries, although thsy offer no temporary em-
ployment.

March and April are the two best months to
arrive here.

The general wages for journeymen (or assis-
tants, as they are termed here) is about 50 to 55
dols. per month, without board, or 30 to 35 dols.
with board, board and lodging being worth about
20 dols. per month. The English value of one
dollar is 4s. 2d.

It would be no use to attempt to advertise in
the American papers, because they would not
publish such an advertisement, it being contrary
to the law of the U.S.A. for anyone to become
engaged before landing, and the parties who do so
are subject to a very heavy fine, besides the pro-
bability of being deported.

I am sure many young gardeners in Great
Britain do not know of the advantages this
country offers or they would leave England with-
out hesitation. — T. E. R., New Jersey, U.S.A.

CULTURAL ^MEMORANDA.

ACHIMENES, TYD.EAS, &C.
(Continued from page 1-1.)

The stolons of these plants having commenced
to grow in pans, they should be left undis-
turbed till they have reached a height of 1^ to
2 inches. In the meantime prepare the pans,
baskets, or pots in which the plants are to
flower, by using as drainage materials a few
large crocks with a 2-inch layer of small ones
above them, and above these a layer of from 3
to 6 inches of soil similar in its composition to
that recommended for starting the stolons, with .1
quarter addition of light loam, finely sifted and
well incorporated with the other materials, not
omitting plenty of silver sand. The young plants
must be carefully lifted with as much soil as
will cling to them, and set out in the new soil
at from 2 to 3 inches apart, burying the stolons
1 inch deep, and making the compost moder-
ately firm about them, then applying enough
warm water to consolidate the soil, and return-
ing the pans to the stove or other equally warm
structure. Early started plants seldom need
shade, and in a few days after replanting
growth will recommence. Plenty of atmospheric
moisture is better than spraying, either by
means of the watering-can or syringe. When
the soil has become dry and it is necessary to
afford water to the roots, be careful not to wet
the leaves.

Gesneeas.

These plants are among the handsomest stove
herbs, possessing a more erect habit than either
,\chimenes, NEEgelias, or Tydjeas, and a sturdi-
ness which in most cases does away with the
need of artificial supports. Some of the best
known species and hybrids in our gardens are
G. zebrina, and the fine variety G. z. splendens,
G. cinnabarina, and several hybrids obtained
from G. amabilis and G. 2ebrina splendens.
The plants possess velvety, dark green or bronzy
leaves, and grow to a height of TJ- feet to 2 feet,
forming pyramids of brilliantly coloured
flowers. One of the most strikingly beautiful
hybrids, the seed parent being G. discolor and
the male or pollen parent Gloxinia rubra, is
Gesnera Donklarii. This hybrid springs not
from a stolon, but from a hard, woody sort of
tuber of a perennial character, which increases
in size slowly from year to year ; the leaves are
large, and when the treatment is of the right
kind these furnish the stem quite down to the
soil. In G. macrantha we have a cross between
G. bulbosa and G. b. Cooperi. Provided
a warmth of from 60" to 65" as a minimum
be afforded during the season of growth,
and bottom heat at the start of 75° to 80°, Ges-
neras are not difficult of cultivation. Those
species and varieties which propagate them-
selves by stolons should be afforded the same
kind of general treatment as that advised for
Achimenes, alt'iough in order to avoid any

Febriakv :0, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

85

clicck one stolon per small 60 pot is preferable
to starting them together in pans or boxes,
and several small repottings should be afforded
whilst the plants aie in full giowth and previously
to the flowers appearing. The tuberous species
and hybrids require a slightly loamy porous
compost, together with peat and half-decayed
leaf mould and a fair amount of drainage
material, whereas the stoloniferous species are
li:e better for being afforded a lighter mixture.
Those with velvety leaves should not be wetted
overhead or their beautiful appearance will soon
suffer. For an eight inch flower pot 5 plants
are ample for forming a handsome object ; and
in order to secure uniformity of height and time
of flowering, these plants should be of equal
strength and height when planted in the flower-
ing pots. G. Donklarii should be given a pot
or pan to itself ; and G. bulbosa and its varie-
ties also. In order to cultivate Gesneras pro-
perly and flower them at their best, a place
apart from the other inmates of the stove
should be found for them, and failing a pit,
heated with hot water, frames placed on a mla
hotbed composed of tree leaves, and surfaced
with spent tanners' bark, cocoanut fibre, or coal
ashes finely sifted, would answer admirably ;
for in such conditions, ventilation, shade from
strong sunshine, and provision of moisture, are
matters quite under the gardener's control. It
will conduce to healthy development of the
foliage and flower spikes if very weak liquid
manure be applied to the soil as soon as it is
found to be well filled with the roots of the
jilants — not before. The plants form nice
cibjects for furnishing vases and jardiniers in
apartments that are not too cool, and in which
they are not exposed to draughts from windows,
doors, or ventilators. As materials for dinner
table decorations a la Kitssc, when grown in
*li-G inch pots, they are admirable. 1'. M.

" Rose factory " within twenty-three miles of
New York. This may be very nice commer-
cially, but it will hardly appeal to Rose-lovers.
There is, however, no room for sentiment in busi-
ness. The book before us is essentially practi-
cal, and well suited for the amateur, to whose
notice we therefore commend it.

THE ROSARY.

ROSES AND HOW TO GROW THEM.

New York : Doubleday, Page & Co.

No author's name api^ears on the title page
of this little volume, but from the preface we
gather that the compiler has availed himself
of the work of several experts. In any case,
from a glance at the book we can endorse the
general statement that all that is really neces-
sary for the amateur Rose-grower to know, in
order that he may intelligently make a Rose
garden, select his varieties, and grow the har-
vest of bloom, is told in this \olume. The
chapters are devoted to the questions when,
where, and how to plant, the routine of work,
pruning, diseases and their remedies, Roses for
cut flowers under glass, types or races, Roses
for special purposes, Roses of American origin.
The book is written from an American point of
view, and hence allowance must be made for
differences in climate, when an attempt is made
to follow out the author's p.j'ecepts on this side
of the Atlantic. At the same time it must be
remembered that the climate of the United
States is very far from being uniform. The
conditions in Florida, Arizona, and California
are widely different from those prevalent in the
Eastern States, for instance. We have the ad-
vantage in some things, as we read that the
term " perpetual," applied to Roses, is a mis-
nomer in the Eastern States, where a season of
bloom beginning in mid-June and ending in
the following month is all that can be reckoned
on with certainty, even for H.P.'s, what second
bloom is produced being but scanty. As giving
some idea of the commercial importance of
Rose-growing near New York City, it is stated
that about two millions of square feet are used
in houses devoted exclusively to the production
of Roses for the cut-flower market in one large

VAPORISING WITH HYDRO-
CYANIC ACID GAS.

I HAVE made good use of hydrocyanic acid
gas for vaporising purposes during the last 12
months, and am very pleased with the result.
I had plenty of material to experiment with,
i.e., bug and scale, but now I have practically
none.

The first house I fumigated contained Or-
chids, Ferns, Ardisias, and Gardenias, whilst
Stephanotis occupied the wires overhead ; the
Stephanotis and Gardenias were badly infested
with bug.

The first difficulty here was to lower the tem-
perature sufficiently ; the valves of the hot-water
pipes were closed the first thing in the morn-
ing, but it was next to impossible to get the
temperature below 59 degrees, and in order to
reach this the plants had to be exposed to
much draught. Secondly, a quantity of water
had been thrown about up to the evening pre-
vious to the day of operation, so that I could
not get a dry atmosphere. Nevertheless, bug
was so numerous, and it had occupied so much
time in sponging, etc., that I was determined
to vaporise at 3 p.m. I used less than the pre-
scribed quantity, i.e., 2ioz. of potassium
cyanide per 1,000 cubic feet, and closed the
house for 40 minutes, then opened it for an
hour, when I thought it was quite safe to
enter. I was naturally anxious to examine
everything. The first thing noticed was a quan-
tity of bug on the floor, and on the foliage
imder the Stephanotis, and all the bug remain-
ing on the Stephanotis and Gardenias appeared
to be quite dead. The plants, so far as I
could judge so soon after the exposure to the
gas, appeared all right. Next morning, how-
ever, 1 found a few bugs still alive ; the scale
was all killed. Further, I noticed some of the
Orchid leaves were showing signs of injury.

In the course of a week I was able to form an
opinion of the results of the experiment as re-
gards damage, etc. The cyanide had either been
too strong, or there had been too nmch heat, or
moisture, or both ; certainly the damage was
not great, but it was desirable to avoid it in the
future, if possible. Therefore, I decided to try
again ; this time the valves were closed the
night before. The temperature next morning
was just below 60 degrees, and it happened to
be a dull morning, so that by opening the venti-
lators the temperature was quickly lowered to
55 degrees. An excess of moisture was avoided
as much as possible. I used the same
quantity of potassium cyanide, but closed the
house for an hour, and afterwards opened it for
an hour before going inside. The next morning an
examination proved that the cyanide had bee.n
insuflScient. I could find odd bugs still alive,
and in the course of time I could not detect any
ill-effects of the acid fumes upon the foliage.
I tried a third time, practically in the same way
as the last, but used more cyanide. This was in
November, 1904 ; the results were entirely satis-
factory, and I have not had occasion to repeat
the operation since in the same house. A few
plants have been brought out once or twice
for scale, and exposed to the cyanogen fumes in
other houses ; that was not to be wondered at,
as the plants are constantly changed from one
house to another.

The plant stove was the next house to be
treated : that was in June, 1905. I thought

first thing iu the morning would be the best
time, the temperature being unavoidably high
in the evening at that season of the year. The
fire was allowed to die out during the afternoon
prior to the morning of operation, so that the
temperature at 6 a.m. was 57 degrees. The ven-
tllators were thrown open for a short time to
reduce the temperature and allow the moisture
to escape, though efforts had been made the
daj' before to prevent moisture. I closed the
house and exposed the contents to the fumes for
three-quarters of an hour, afterwards opening
the doors at either end of the house, and finally
the top ventilators. It was noticed that the
temperature had risen considerably during the
time the house was closed, the sun having
shone a little on one end of the house. In the
course of a day or two, it was found that prac-
tically all the bug, and scale, had been killed.
.\t the same time some small Palms, Kentias,
and Rondeletia had suffered. Undoubtedly this
was due to the increase of temperature during
the exposure. The house was again treated in
October, but this time the fire was put out the
first thing in the morning. No water was thrown
about, the ventilators were opened towards
evening, and the temperature was reduced below
55 degrees. The same quantity of cyanide was
used as before, the exposure was the same,
and the results were entirely satisfactory.
Begonia, Gloire de Lorraine, and Cypripediums
in flower showed no trace of injury.

The late Vinery was another house fumigated
in this way after the Grapes were cut. It was
the only fruit house infested with bug. I used
rather more than the prescribed quantity of
cyanide to make sure of destroying all the bugs.
The temperature was low, 45 degrees, and the
atmosphere dry. There were bug and thrips on
the Vines, and scale on certain plants in the
house. On examination, both immediately
afterwards, and since while the Vines were ■
being cleaned, not one live bug was found, al-
though several dead ones were concealed under
the bark. The thrip, scale, and, unfortunately,
a good cat, previously unobserved in the house,
were destroyed. The only plants to suffer from
the stronger application were the Clivias ; it
was certainly too much for them. The vapor-
ising has saved us a great amount of labour
in one year ; every gardener knows what it
means when men have to spend their time
sponging repeatedly for bug, and removing scale
from Asplenium, Ferns, etc., with the point of
a stick.

I use 250Z. of potassium cyanide 95 per cent.,
2i fluid oz. of the strongest commercial sul-
phuric acid, and 10 fluid oz. of water per 1,000
cubic feet. My method is the following : 1 mix
the acid and water in an earthenware bowl.
Note : The acid must be added to the water, and
not the water to the acid, or very serious results
may follow. The affinity between the concen-
trated acid and water is so great that if a little
water is added to a quantity of the acid, the
action is so vigorous that it is quite likely the
bulk of the acid and water might be forced out
of the vessel over the person mixing them, and
burn him severely, or even blind him. The re-
quisite amount of acid and water in the bowl
is placed upon the floor in the house, and the
weighed quantity of cyanide is rapidly trans-
ferred from another dish to the one containing
the dilute acid. I lock the doors and
leave the house for three-quarters of an
hour. In those houses where the ventilating
gear will allow, I leave it so that I can open
the top ventilators from the outside, but in
most of the houses the apparatus consists of
iron rods and worm.s, so that it is impossible
to open the top ventilators from the outside
without unscrewing and so liberating them. In
some cases this would be very difficult, tho

88

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febeuakv 10, 1900.

screws having rusted in the wood. In cases
of this sort, after the time of exposure, I open
the doors at either end of the house, and
leave it for perhaps twenty minutes or
so, then take a deep breath, rush in and open
the top ventilators as quickly as possible, and
out again ; then go back in the same way to
open the front ventilators, and leave the house
for an hour, when one may go in safely. I
know this is a very dangerous performance, and
one that is not to be recommended. If I had
no knowledge of chemistry I should devise
some other means of opening the house from
the outside, and this is what I should strongly
.idvise others to do, because cyanide is a most
DEADLY POISON. We must never forget that.

I have seen in the Gardeners' Chronicle at
different times that sodium cyanide 130 per
cent, has been recommended. How is it pos-
sible to get more than 100 per cent, absolute
purity in a chemical compound? [This is a
commercial term meaning that the sodium
cyanide contains 130 parts of cyanide to every
100 parts of sodium.— Ed.] I think I am
right in saying sodium cyanide is more difficult
to obtain than the corresponding potash com-
pound. We find it so here. I am aware there
is one thing in favour of the sodium cyanide,
i.e., according to the chemical formula of the
two compounds, lib. of sodium cyanide pure
yields as much gas as Ijlb. of potassium
cyanide pure. I don't know the price of the
sodium cyanide, therefore do not know the
cheaper source from which to obtain the hydro-
cyanic acid gas, but, supposing they were both
Is. per lb., the sodium compound would be the
cheaper, because it would yield the most gas.
W. H. Dobson, The Gardens, Staplelon Park,
Ponlefract.

[Those who try this most effectual, but most
dangerous remedy, should contrive some
means of lowering the cyanide into the acid
from without so as to avoid the necessity of
being in the house at the time tlie cyanide is
dropped into the acid. — Ed.]

THE HARDY FLOWER BORDER.

TWO MONTBRETIAS.

Two varieties may be noted here. Neither
belongs to the large-flowered section, some of
which, by the way, are not such effective border
plants as the best of the older small-flowered
typo. M. Vulcan is one. The plants grow tall
for Montbretias, this being by no means its least
charm. The colour in a mass is good and
effective, and the plants are among the earliest
to flower, which will increase its value in late
districts. The other is M. "fleura jaune," a clear
and good yellow. I think the best of the colour.
The plant belongs to the dwarf section, but is
not as dwarf as either Eldorado or Matador. I
am hopeful that " Tigridie " will prove a splen-
did border plant, but one has to see Montbre-
tias in groups of one to three hundred plants to
gain a good idea of their effectiveness as garden
Howers.

GIANT HELIOTROPES.

3v sowing early, large standard in pots may
be had in flower in July, or in the open, if
required for borders. But strong floriferous
plants for borders are produced with less trouble
by sowing and growing on in the same manner
as tejider annuals. The flowers are either
whitish or blue in several shades, some of which
are distinct and pretty. These originated with
M. Lemoine, of Nancy, but seeds are now pro-
curable in England. M. Leraoine grows a se-
lect few by name, and these, of course, are
true to colour, but they are so easy to produce
from seeds that for ordinary purposes those
who care to try them as border plants should
be advised to propagate a stock in that way.
R. I'. B., rrcslonkirk, N.h.

KEW NOTES.

SOLANUM INTEGRIFOLIUM.

This plant is a native of Asia and Africa ; its
chief beauty is afforded by the fruits, which re-
semble small corrugated Tomatos. The attrac-
tiveness of the plants in the greenhouse and
conservatory does not depend entirely on the
proportion of brilliant colour they supply, but
rather on their variety. The flowers of S. integri-
folium are small, and the leaves vary in size from
5 to 8 inches in length and 4 to 5 inches in width.

Propagation is effected by seeds, sown prefer-
ably in February or March in a warm house.
Prick the seedlings off into small pots or boxes
when large enough to handle, and cultivate them
in an atmosphere of intermediate temperature for
a time. When affording them the final potting
if pots measuring 6 or 7 inches in diameter be
used they will be large enough. The plants may
be hardened off and plunged outside for six or
eight weeks, if the weather is favourable, in July
and August. Failing this grow them in a house
wliere they will get abundance of light and air.

A number of plants in No. 4 house are bearing
both red and green fruits. This winter the shoots
were not stopped, and the plants flowered a second
time in December. They will last in good con-
dition all through the winter. A . O.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By \V. II. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Plants oj Odontoglossiim crispum and hybrids that
have been obtained from this species that were
repotted last autumn have now become well
rooted in the new compost and have their
growths well advanced. Where it is found de-
sirable to increase the stock of any special
variety, the rhizome of the plant may be partially
severed with a sharp knife, and in a few weeks
should be cut quite through. My practice has
been to cut the rhizome just behind the second
pseudo-bulb, leaving the two front bulbs to support
the leading growth. In time old pseudo-bulbs
will produce one or more new growths, and by
the autumn they will have made some roots, when
they may be removed from the front portion of
the plant and be potted up separately. By adopt-
ing this method young plants are produced more
freely and with less trouble than by the old plan
of cutting the pseudo-bulbs off entirely and
suspending them in the house.

The Mexic-in Lalias as L. albida, L. autumualis,
L. Gouldiana, L. anceps, and its numerous varie-
ties will now be commencing to make new roots,
and immediately these are observed the plants, if
necessary, should be supplied with fresh material
about their roots. Well established plants, that do
not now recjuire larger receptacles, should have
any old worn out material carefully removed from
about the roots and fresh compost substituted for
it. These La;Iias may be grown in pots, shallow
pans, or teak-wood baskets, but, whichei'er recep-
tacle is chosen, it is imperative to provide good
drainage. The compost should consist of a mix-
ture of one-half fibrous peat, one quarter sphagnum-
moss, and one quarter leaf soil, to which may be
added some small crocks and coarse silver sand.
In the course of re-potting press the materials
firmly together, and keep the rhizome of the plant
about on a level with the rim of the pot. Until
the plants have become re-established and aie
again growing freely, merely keep the surface of
the compost moist to encourage the new sphagnum-
moss to grow. The atmosphere of the house
should still be kept at a temperature of about 55'-'
at night, but during the day it may rise as high as
the sun heat will raise it if ventilation is afforded
with discretion. When the new growths appear
the degree of warmth and moisture should be
gradually increased. Such species as L. albida.
L. autumualis, and L. majalis should be suspended
in a light position in the cool house. Cockroaches
and woodlice are very fond of the roots of these
plants, and therefore every means should be taken
to eradicate them.

Heating and Ventilation. — The weather being very
mild, each division should be given a thorough
damping down every morning ; the paths and the
surface beneath the stages will require to be sprinkled
again in the afternoon. The temperatures at night

need not be raised above those given in the issue-
for January 6, The day temperatures should also be
kept the same so far as fire-heat is concerned, but
when the sun causes the temperature to increase,
admit air to every department through the bottom
ventilators. In the Phalaenopsis-house and Den-
drobium-house, where many plants are now in
bloom, a "chink" of air should be admitted
tlirough the top ventilators whenever practicable,
so as to allow any over-abundance of atmospheric
moisture to escape, and thus prevent the fiosvers
from becoming spotted.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh .\. Pe ttu.rew. G.irdener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Fagaii's Castle, Glamorganshire.

The Rosary. — All renovations and improvements,
must be completed as early as possible, and any
planting left over from November can now be pro-
ceeded with as soon as the weather permits of the
ground being worked properly. Though November
is the safest month of the year in which to plant
Roses, many prefer to do the work in February,
and even March, and excepting cases where the
soil is of a light nature there is not much to be
said against doing so. There is one decided
advantage, however, that November planting has
over that in February which cannot be over-
estimated, and this is, that in purchasing from Nur-
serymen the best plants naturally are selected first,
therefore growers who defer planting until Feb-
ruary often have to be satisfied with indifferent
quality in the varieties they particularly desire.
When about to plant Roses, too much stress
cannot be laid upon the urgency of trenching
deeply, and of supplying to the soil abundance of
farmyard manure. In the management of the
Rosary tlie best results are obtained bv providing
beds to contain each its own particular variety,
and they should be large enough to hold from 20
to 30 plants each. Larger beds might be planted
with a number of varieties, taking care that the
flowers will not only agree in colour, but also that
the plants will be of the same habit of growth. In
these larger beds half-standards could be used
with advantage for planting amongst the dwarfs,
and this would relieve the effect. Where prac-
ticable exclude Hybrid Perpetuals from the Rosary,
and also the rampant-growing Polyanthas, and
grow principally the recognised decorative Roses
of the Tea-scented, Hybrid Tea, China, Noisette
and Dwarf Polyantha types, because of their per-
petual blooming habit. The season of blooming of
Hybrid Perpetuals is comparatively so short that it
is generally desirable that they should be grown in
the "garden for cut flowers," and also that the
strong growing Polyantha Roses should be re-
stricted to the Rosary in the wild garden.

Varieties to Plant. — For beds devo'.ed to one
variety, or for the larger beds to be associated in
colours, the following varieties occur to one as
being a few of the very best for the purpose : —
Caroline Testout (H.T.), Bardon Job (H.T.),
Griiss an Tephtz (H.T.), Hon. Edith Gifford {T.l,
Madame Larabard (T.), Pr^fet Monteil (T.),
Corallina (T.), Madame J. Dupuy (T.), Madame
Berkeley (T.), Madame Antoine Mari (T.), Dr.
Grid, Souvenir de Catherine Guillot (T.), Ma
Capucine (T.), Anna Olivier (T.), Lady Roberts
(T.), and Laurette Massimy (C). A very pleasing
feature could be made in the Rosary by devoting
a bed or group of beds to those varieties possessing
the sweetest scent. In a bed of this description
such fragrant roses as La France (H.T.), Madame
de St. Joseph (T.), and Zephyrine Drouhin (B.),
should unhesitatingly be placed.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Tiuuib, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.

The Stove.— The longer days and the increase
of light and sunshine will soon set the'
machinery of plant life in motion. The atmos-
pheric temperature of stoves should be gradually
raised to promote active growth. At night it
may now range from 65° to 68", allowing an
increase or 10° or more on bright days. More
moisture should be maintained in the atmos-
phere, and such plants as need it may be gently
syringed overhead with tepid rain water. The
propagation of plants in gener.il should now be
given attention. Before inserting any cuttings
let them be examined, and if there are any
insects present dip the cuttings in a solution of
XL-all insecticide.

A II arnand as. —1'la.nts that have been resting
for the past two months may now be started
into growth. Potting may be done either while

February 10, 190C.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

87

the plants are in a dormant state, or after they
liave commenced to grow. Whilst they are still
dormant is perhaps the most suitable time,
inasmuch as there is then no risk of breaking
the young shoots. Reduce the old ball by one-
half, after which soak the remaining half in
tepid water and allow it to drain thoroughly
before repotting. Fibrous loam, with a little
sand and dried cows' manure added, will be
found to be a suitable compost. Avoid over-
potting the plants. Cultivate them in a position
close to the glass in full sunshine, and afford
free ventilation.

Clerod.ndrans require similar treatment to that
advised for Allamandas, with the exception that
the roots should not be disturbed more than is
necessary. These plants succeed well in the
same pots for two seasons or more, provided a
top dressing of dried cow manure, leaf mould,
and soot be given ; also frequent supplies of
liquid manure during the growing season.

Eucharis. — Plants that have flowered should
be giTen copious root waterings, and if the pots
are well filled with roots and have not been
repotted for some time, afford them liberal
supplies of manure water. Clear soot water
may be applied to the roots at any time, and
if the plants are syringed with it occasionally
they will be benefited.

General remarks. — Pits and frames containing
miscellaneous plants should be examined. Any
plants that may require to be propagated should
be placed near to the light to make strong growths
lor use as cuttings. If not already done, have the
water cisterns cleaned out, for the winter rains
will have carried a deposit into them from the
roof glass, and as the syringe will soon be coming
again into use it would convey the deposit on to
the plants and wood-work in the houses. There
is no better safeguard against any serious at-
tacks of insects than that of keeping the plants
in a vigorous state of health, and of maintaining
strict cleanliness in the structures in which they
are grown. Any bulbs that are still plunged in
ashes should not be allowed to remain there
very long. Let Cinerarias and Calceolarias
be kept close up to the glass, and bo
afforded free ventilation, also liberal sup-
plies of liquid manure. The application of water
to the roots of plants should be very carefully
studied, especially so immediately after plants
have been repotted and the young roots are just
adv.mcing into the new soil. Carelessness in
affording water often ends in the constitution
of a plant being deranged for the whole season.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. \V. BinKiNSiiAW, GarJener to Lt.-Col. Sir Cn.\s.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordsliire.

Early Melons. — Where hotbeds,, composed of
leaves and long litter, have already been made
up, as was advised in a former Calendar, and
provided the soil has been got into the house
and warmed, the plants may be put out at once
or as soon as they are sufBciently rooted that it
is possible to turn them out of the pots without
breaking the balls of soil. The compost should
consist of turfy loam, lime scraps, wood ashes,
soot, and about 1 lb. of bone meal, also 1 lb.
of -J-inch bones to each barrow full of compost.
The compost should be made up into a ridge
and beaten down firmly. It is a good plan to
make little mounds of loam and wood ashes in
positions on the ridges where the plants are
intended to be grown, for such mounds act as a
preventive of too much water reaching the stems
of the plants, and so helps to keep the plants
free from canker. Some gardeners prefer to
grow and fruit their earliest batch of plants in
pots, which should not be less than 11 inches
in diameter. These are plunged into the hot-
bed up to their rims, and filled with the same
kind of compost already described. When the
plants are first put out in their permanent posi-
tions, and provided there is strong sunshine,
they may require to be shaded for a few days
whilst becoming established in the soil. The
atmospheric temperature of the house should
range from 6j^ to 68° at night, and maybe 10"
higher during the day. Maintain considerable
moisture in the atmosphere by frequently damp-
ing down all available spaces in the house.
.Syringe the plants and close the house early in
the afternoons to economise fire heat.
' Cucumbers. — Plants which have been in bear-
ing since last October are probably almost
exhausted, but if given very careful treatment,
and rich top dressings of fresh horse manure
are applied to the roots, they may be en-

couraged to yield a few more fruits, and thus
be of use until the successional plants begin to
bear. It is not very difficult to obtain Cucum-
bers during the last three months in the year,
but in order to have plenty during the first three
months in the year much attention must begiven,
and suitable houses where the plants can obtain
all the light possible are necessary provisions.
The atmospheric temperature should be from 65'-"
to 68° at night and 7o° by day. Let the foliage
be syringed on all favourable occasions to pre-
vent red spider.

Vine "Eyes." — It is convenient to have a few
young Vines growing on for the purpose of
inarching them on to other varieties, or for use
in planting out in permanent borders. Select
plump "eyes" from well-ripened wood, leaving
about li inch of wood to each eye. Cut the
wood on the under side in a slanting direction,
and place each "eye" in a SJ inch pot which
has been filled with sandy loam. Plunge the
pots in a mild bottom heat, when they will soon
make roots if kept in a uniformly moist condi-
tion.

later in coming to maturity. A small sowing
may be made out of doors shortly on a sheltered
and warm border, employing the same varieties.
The loss will not be great it they fail, and there
is the possibility that they will succeed.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By I. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, VVelbeck Abbey, Notts.

Celery. — Those who require to have Celery fit
for consumption in August should now sow
seeds in moderately rich soil in shallow boxes.
Let the soil be watered after it has been pressed
down in the boxes and just before sowing the
seed. Finish off with a slight sprinkling of
finely sifted soil only just sufficient to cover the
seeds. Celery seeds sometimes come up very
irregularly, therefore do not throw away a box-
ful simply because a few seedlings only first
appear ; others will come up in all probability
a little later on. Veitch's Early Rose and
Sutton's Dwarf Gem are very suitable varieties
for early crops. I do not recommend the so-
called self-blanching varieties, of which White
Plume is one that is mostly grown. For early
exhibition purposes Dobbie's Invincible \\hite
is one of the' best, with Standard Bearer as a
first-rate red variety.

Early Cauliflower. — Young seedlings from last
month's sowing will require to be pricked off
in frames, and preferably over a slight hotbed.
A few may be potted up also with a view to
cultivating some early "heads" under glass,
using pots 8 inches in diameter, and though the
" heads " will not be of large size they will be
very early, and consequently much appreciated.
Make another sowing in boxes to form a suc-
cession, and a third sowing in a cold frame.

Winter Onions. — Towards the end of the month
transplant these into lines 15 inches apait, and
allow 6 inches space between each plant. R.ch
soil is essential in the cultivation of very fine
bulbs. Thin out the seedlings in the lines at
the same time, but take care not to thin them
too severely, as there is always the danger of
loss caused by some of the plants running to
seed, which is much more prevalent in some
seasons than others, even with the same
variety.

Shallots. — The present is a good time to get
in this crop, for if planting is done late, the
subsequent crop is always of less amount.
Plant them in rich soil which has been deeply
worked. This remark applies to nearly all
vegetables. The small Cluster variety is very
serviceable when grown for pickling, and the
Red Dutch, which is large, is the most useful
for slicing for flavouring purposes. There are
several selections of this latter variety, which
are improvements on the type, and a good one
should be secured. Seed may now be sown in
the same way as that of onions, and many
cooks prefer the young seedlings to Onions for
use in flavouring.

Turnips. — If seeds are not sown until the end
of the month there will be less fear of the crop
being spoiled through "bolting." But if a
frame can be spared let a sowing be made now
on a slight hotbed, followed by another sowing
made in a cold frame. A succession of nice
tender roots may then be anticipated before
there are any fit for use out of doors. Turnips
require a light, firm soil, and a sprinkling of
soot mixed with it. Thin out the seedlings as
early as it is possible to do the work, and
before they get " leggy," which is the ruin of
many young plants. Early White Milan is one of
the best varieties for cultivation in frames, and
may be followed by Snowball. The latter is the
better Turnip, being deeper in the flesh, but it is

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Pruning Apple and Pear Trees. — If this work has-
not been completed, let it be hastened as much as
possible, for the buds are beginning to push.
Prune the spurs somewhat severely in order to
induce them to "break back," but favour those
buds which are most suitably placed. Thin the
spurs out as much as is practicable, in order that
those which remain will be the better exposed to-
the influence of light and air. Young shoots in a
vigorous condition should be cut back more
severely than others. Thin out the branches of
any standard trees that may still remain to be-
pruned, and shorten the longest growths.

Vines should now be pruned ; Raby Castle is a
fine variety for affording decorative foliage, being
of a dark port wine colour and often called by
that name. It is suitable for cultivation on old or
unsightly buildings.

^strawberries. — Beds that have not been mulched
may have the surface soil between the rows lightly
pricked over with a fork, and a good mulch of
manure placed over it. Prepare a piece of ground
by trenching it and adding manure, that the soil
may be ready to receive plants next month. Royal
Sovereign, if wintered in pots, succeeds very well
under this treatment, and is capable of pro-
ducing fine fruits. A system that may be recom-
mended as a good one for producing an earlv
crop of fruit outside, is that of planting strong
crowns on a south border and covering them with
frames.

Crab Apples. — These fruits are very nice, and
they answer a double purpose. The trees are
beautiful when in flower ; they continue to be
showy all through the summer and the fruits make
an agreeable preserve. The Siberian Crab is one
of the best. Others to be recommended are John-
Downie, The Dartmouth, Mrs. John Seden, and.
T.ie Langley, which are newer and very siiowy.
They form very beautiful standards.

Blackberries, &-c. — Good plants of these can be-
procured in pots, therefore planting may still be
done. Wilson's Early is very productive, and
Wilson, Junr., a large fruited variety. The parsley-
leaved Bramble, Rubus laciuiatus, is one of the-
most serviceable. The Logan Berry, a hybrid
Irom the Raspberry and Blackberry, is grown
e .tensively. The fruit is of large size and rich in
colour, possessing a fine flavour which makes
it of use for dessert cr for culinary purposes.
This hybrid makes a robust growth, and should be
trained to strained wires, or be supported on poles-
or stout stakes.

Filberts and other Nuts. — Thin out the wood of
these bushes and remove all suckers from the base.

THE APIARY.

By Chloris.

Its Position. — Very few people seem to realise
how necessary it is to choose a suitable site for
the hives. Many of my acquaintances place
them under hedges, in spots sheltered from the
sun, and even in a very weedy portion of the
garden. Last year I was requested to overhaul
some bees by the head gardener at a large
establishment, and I could scarcely sea the hives-
for tall weeds.

W/'iat then is a suitable place? — It should not
be where there is much traflSc, e.g., near a path
or croquet ground. It will be well to choose a
low position on rising ground, sheltered from
north and east winds. It will be well to let the
entrances face to the south-east, so that the in-
mates may feel the warming and rousing
influence of the early morning sun. The stands
of the hives should not be very high, for the
bees returning heavily laden often have a diffi-
culty in reaching a high alighting board.
There is also another drawback, and that is the
hives are in greater danger of being blown over
in a gale when they stand too high above the
ground. The land in front of the hives should
always be kept free of all plant life for a space
of 2 or 3 feet.

Distance between the Hives. — If two or more
lines of hives are kept, there should be a sp.ice-
of from 12 to 18 feet between the lines and a
distance of 6 feet between the hives in each line-

88

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febeuaky 10, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Abetters for Publication, ns 'cell as specimens niul flanls
for naming, should be (niilycsscd to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications slwuld be written on oni; side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— 7Vic Editor does not
ttndcrtake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold kimselt
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- T/if Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
garde?is, or of remarhablc plants, flowers, trecSf &c. : but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Pie-wspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be

careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.
Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sendingto
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matterswhith it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, Feb. lo

TUESDAY,

Feb.

THURSDAY, Feb. 15

Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet.
Ann. Meet. Roy. Hort. Soc. at 3

p.m. Committees meet at 12 p.m.

Hort. Club .\nn. Meet. & Dinner.
Linnean Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 39-0°.
Actual Temperatures: —

LoUDOS.— Wednesday, Feb. 7 (6 p.m.): Max. 45°; Min.
ST.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, l-ondon.— Thursday , Feb. 8 (10
A.M.): Bar., 23-9; Temp., 45'; II'ra;Acr— Dull.
Provinces.— W'frfiics<(nj', Feb. 7 (6 p.m.) : Max. 47"
Ireland West ; Min. 39" Colchester.

SALES.

MONDAY NEXT—

Thousands of Hardy Border, Herbaceous and other
plants. Lilies, Roses, Azaleas, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheap-
side, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

AVEDNESDAY NEXT—

Sale of Roses, Lilies, Rhododendrons, &c., at Stevens'
Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden, London.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

The Freehold Property, the Exotic Nurseries, Heritage
Road, Coalville, Leicestershire, with Dwelling-house,
Greenhouses, trade buildings, &c., at Railway Hotel,
Coalville, by Protheroe & Morris, at 4.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Herbaceous and border plants, Gladiolus, Begonias, &c.,
at 12; Roses at i and 3, also Azaleas, Palms, plants, &c.,
at 67 and 63, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Roses, ,\zaleas. Hardy plants and bulbs, &c., at 67 and
68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Choice imported and established Orchids, at 67 and 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.30.

M. Edouard Heckel contributes
Variation ., paper to a recent issue of the

' . .^ Comptes Rcndiis on variation in
Potato ^

Tuber. Solanuin tubers, winch is of
great interest to Potato raisers
and to botanists. He mentions the rapid and
important clianges in tlie vegetative system
as also in the reproductive organs of Solanum
Comniersoni reported to have been ob-
served by M. Labergerie at Verrieres.
This plant had been cultivated by M.
Heckel at Marseilles for six years without
any such variation in the specific type having
"been observed. In these specimens it was the
tuber that was especially modified in size,
in colour, taste, and the nature of the skin.
It became edible and, finally, developed four
varieties : violet, yellow, I'ose, and white,
which all sprang from a tuber supplied by M.
Heckel that was originally yellow. It was re-
markable that variation in the tubers affected
first the colouring of the skin and even of the
flesh as in the case of Oxalis crenata, the
Jerusalem Artichoke, and the Yam.

The violet variety is the most remarkable,
and some growers, as we have already
stated, conjecture it may be the same as a

varietv of Solanum tuberosum known as
geanle blcuc, a view which M. Labergerie
strongly disputes. M. Heckel also has no
doubts as to its origin, for he reports that he
has seen, in the Botanic Garden at Marseilles,
tubers of the violet variety yield plants that
afforded a reversion to the purest typo of .S.
Comniersoni, whilst at Verrieres M. Laber-
gerie found all intermediate stages between
the cordifonn fruit of S. Comniersoni and the
round fruit of S. tuberosum. Having grown
-Solanum Comniersoni, S. Maglia, S. Fend-
leri, S. Ohrondi, and S. stoloniferum unsuc-
cessfully in Provence, M. Heckel resolved to
start afresh under different conditions, and to
commence with S. Maglia. In 1905 he re-
ceived from MM. de Vilmorin, who had long
grown this species, and from Messrs. Sutton
and Sons, of Reading, violet and yellow
tubers of S. Maglia. Planted in a warm
house, supplied with the usual manures
(super-phosphate, potassium chloride and
nitrate of potash), the tubers yielded fine
jjlants, and their flowers were identical with
those of S. Maglia. At the end of April
many of them ceased forming tubers, and M.
Heckel resolved lo turn them out of their
pots and put them in the open ground in a
bed where the preceding year he had grown
some plants of Sutton's Discovery, North
Star, and Edward VII. These are all varie-
ties of the common Potato S. tuberosum
selected, on account of the abundance of pol-
len they yield, for hybridising (successfully,
as it proved). S. tuberosum was used as the
pollen parent, and S. Commersoni as the
female. Mole crickets and various accidents
eventually left only one plant of the yellow
S. Maglia alive. Last November this plant
bore at its base, without stolons, live tubers
very varied in character, but all red-violet in
colour.

While the tubers planted weighed 4
grammes and 5 grammes, and measured 2
cent. 5 long, those which I\I. Heckel gathered
measured between 5 and 9 cent, and weighed
from 30 to 130 grammes. The Icnticcls haa
disappeared, the flesh was no longer watery
and bitter or tasteless, but was firmer, con-
tained more starch, the eyes were developed,
and the tuber was now edible. In a word,
this variety of S. Maglia behaved in the same
way as that raised at Verrieres in 1901 from
Solanum Commersoni, of wh'.ch yellow tubers
were sent to M. Labergerie. This result in-
duced M. Heckel to think that the vicinity of
S. tuberosum and its influence on the sur-
rounding soil was responsible for the
variations. Evidently these results were
not due to cultural causes, but were prob-
ably due to the same phenomena recently
observed by M. Bonnier in the ordinary
Potato. Clusius, it is stated, was only able to
obtain tubers on plants raised from seed by
the aid of a little earth surrounding the
tubers. M. Heckel is repeating, on all the
wild tuber-bearing species that he can pro-
cure, the same experiments which were car-
ried on with the tubers in a state of variation,
and he desires that growers of these same
varieties should repeat his trials, as the im-
portance of the subject demands careful
checking by several observers. In any case,
M. Hcckel's experience serves to confirm the
opinion of A. de CandoUe that the S. Maglia
of Chili and Peru was the wild species whence
our cultivated Potato originated. The fact
admitted of no doubt historically, and M.
Heckel has now proved it experimentally. It
is possible that the tuber which was the sub-

ject of the variation here described resembles
some known and cultivated form of the com-
mon Potato, as it sprang from the violet
variety of S. Comniersoni. This is not sur-
prising, since most writers who have studied
the matter agree that S. Commersoni and
S. Maglia had a share in yielding the nume-
rous varieties of the Potato in cultivation that
are classed indifferently now as S. tubcix)sum.
It would seem from the results published
by M. Labergerie and M. Heckel that we have
here to do with a process analogous to what
De Vries calls " mutation." It is equally evi-
dent that the observations of the two gentle-
men above-named require to be repeated in
various localities before their inferences can
be accepted as free from doubt.

With regard to the identity of the tubers
gained by M. Labergerie with those of " Blue
Giant," there is, as we have already stated,
considerable difference of opinion. M. Laber-
gerie is convinced that his tubers are different
from those of Giant blue. M. Heckel, as we
have seen, shares M. Labergerie's convic.
lions. M. Gaston Bonnier says, from trials
made at Fontainebleau, that in dry soils it is
impossible to confound the two sorts, but that
in damp soils the difference is not so per-
ceptible, although, even then, careful exami-
nation reveals points of distinction. M.
Labergerie's plant, says M. Bonnier, differs
from the Blue Giant in the greyish violet
colour of the tubers, the abundance of lenti-
cels, and its earlier ripening. Moreover, the
Blue Giant cultivated in soils of the most
varied character, neither develops the great
variability of the sport derived from S. Com-
mersoni, nor the reversiians to the wild form
which have been observed in the last men-
tioned.

Incidentally, M. Philippe de Vilmorin con-
tributes an interesting addition to this dis-
cussion. In the Bulletin of the Botanical
.Society of France, No. 7, 1905, p. 535, M. de
\'ilniorin expresses a doubt as to the origin of
M. Labergerie's variety, and goes on to al-
lude to the not infrequent production of tubers
on the haulm. In his experience this produc-
tion of aerial tubers is more common in vio-
let coloured Potatos than in any other, and
occurs especially in cases where the vegeta-
tive growth is rendered excessively luxuriant
by the humidity of the soil. In our own ex-
perience we have thought that the production
of tubers on the haulm was sometimes due to
some injury to the underground tuber by a
digging fork, wire-worm, or other source of
injury to the subterranean parts of the stem.
But this is a point which demands investiga-
tion. The instance described and figured by
M. de Vilmorin is specially remarkable in
that the aerial tubers were not produced on
the haulm but on the inflorescence. It would
seem, from M. de Vilmorin 's figure that cer-
tain branches of the inflorescence which, un-
der ordinary circumstances should be short,
slender, almost thread-like, and terminated
by a flower, have developed into stout her-
baceous, leaf-bearing sheets like those of the
ordinary haulm, but even thicker. From the
axils of the leaves on these modified shoots
aerial tubers have been formed.

The problems to be solved then are these : —
Are we to consider Solanum tuberosum (our
ordinary Potato), S. Commersoni, and S.
Maglia, leaving others for the time being out
of consideration, as separate and distinct
species, or can we believe that the one may
develop from the other by " mutation " or
otherwise? If this latter view is proved to be

February 10, 1908 ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

89

the correct one, may it not be that S. tubero-
sum itself is only a derivative from some otlier
species? In that case it might be of the
greatest practical importance to know the
conditions which have brought about these
<'lianges. And so it comes about that varia-
tions which are sometimes rather disdain-
fully called sports or " freaks of Nature " (as
if there was ever anv caprice in Nature !) be-
come of the highest importance scientifically
and practically. The exhibit of species of
Potato which Messrs. Sutton tell us they
will display at the meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society on Tuesday ne.it will,
in view of the circumstances just men-
tioned, be scanned witii unusual interest.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — The

group of Chrysanthemums shown in our supple-
mentary illustration was exhibited by Mr. H. J.
Jo.NES, Ryecroft Nurseries, Lewisham, at the ex-
hibition of the National Chrysanthemum Society
held at the Crystal Palace in December last.
This group was greatly admired, and it received
one of the highest awards given at the Show, in
the form of a large gold medal. All the various
sections of this popular flower were represented in
the group, a feature being the single-flowered and
the smaller decorative sorts, which were arranged
among the larger specimen blooms. Among the
latter, Mrs, Swinburne, a pure white variety,
received a First Class Certificate on account of its
beauty and for its value as a late variety. Mrs.
Heech, a yellow sport from the last-named variety,
was also shown in good form. Mrs. \V. Elliott,
a large, white flower with very long, drooping
florets, Crimson Gem, a medium-sized bloom rich
in the colour indicated by its name. Market Gold,
and Glory, a new golden-yellow decorative flower,
are other worthy varieties included in the display.
Of the singles. Silver Star was one of the most
prominent. The large specimen blooms seen in
the foreground were arranged among Ferns, which
manner of staging was more effective than if the
flowers had been arranged stifHy on boards. It
lias been remarked for several years past that
some of the trade growers, particularly Mr. H. J.
Jones and Mr. Norman Davis, have arranged
groups of Chrysanthemum blooms and decorative
foliage plants in a manner that has won admira-
tion by reason of the bold effect obtained. Mr.
Davis' group in the Royal Horticultural Hall in
November last was a good instance of this.

The Botanical Magazine. — The contents of
the February number, edited by Sir William
T. Thisei.to.n-Dvek, comprise coloured illus-
trations and descriptions of the following
plants : —

EuLOPHiA .SUD.\, Lindley ; tab. 8,037. — A ter-
restrial Orchid found wild from Nepal and
Burma to Ceylon, as well as in the Chinese
province of Yunnan. The leaves are plicately
folded ; the flowers borne in erect scapes ;
perianth segments ascending, rose-pink ; lip—
trowel-shaped with a yellow disc margined
with deep rose, and a rather long conical spur.
The variations in colour are said to be very
great.

Saxifraga scardic.4, Griscbach ; tab. 8,058. —
A sturdy species which " may be expected to
supersede, to some extent, the well-known .S.
Burseriana, as it is more showy and stands
damp weather better." It is a native of the Bal-
kan Peninsula.

Iris Sieheana, Lynch, in Gardeners' Chron-
icle (1904), p. 282; tab. 8,0j9.— Closely allied
to I. persica, but differs in its stiffer leaves
and the colour of its perianth, which is silvery-
grey, striped with reddish purple.

Xomcera pileata, Oliver ; tab. 8,060. — A

low-spreading shrub with hairy branches,
ovate evergreen leaves and pale yellow flowers
in the axils of the leaves. The flowers are in
pairs, united at tie base, and the calyx-tube is
provided with a sheath-like outgrowth directed
downwards. The plant was introduced to the
Veitchian nurseries by Mr. E. H. Wilson.

Pruxus triloba, Lindley, in Gardeners'
Chronicle (1857), p. 268; tab. 8,061.— A charm-
ing spring flowering species, the leaves of
which are often three-lobed. Very often, too,
the flowers contain three, or even five, carpels
in place of the ordinary single pistil.

The Surveyors- Institution. — The next
ordinary general meeting will be held in the
lecture hall of the Institution on Monday, February
12, 1906, at 8 p.m. when the discussion on Mr.
Marshall's paper will be resumed.

Nursery Employees at Dinner. — The

well-known nursery firm of Messrs. Cypher and
Co., Cheltenham, recently entertained the whole
of their indoor staff at dinner. The older mem-
bers, numbering 20, met on Wednesday, 31st ult.,
and the remainder on the following evening. Mr.
John Cvpher said it gave him pleasure to meet
them under such pleasant circumstances, and
referred to the good feeling that existed between
them, mentioning that some of those present had
been connected with the firm for upwards of a
quarter of a century.

British Gardeners- Association. — .\t the

last meeting of the Executive Council held at the
R.H.S. Hall, Westminster, the Secretary re-
ported that 38 new members had joined the
Association since the last published report, bringing
the total up to 835. One candidate for member-
ship was not accepted by the council. Since the
last meeting was held the rules, list of members
with addresses, branches, &c., have been issued to
all members of the Association. Certificates have
also been issued to those who have paid their
subscriptions for the year 1906. The Secretary,
Mr. J. Weathers, 7, Talbot Road, Isleworth,
Middlesex, will be glad if members when re-
mitting their subscriptions will be good enough
to acquaint him with any changes of address.

The Staffordshire County Council and
Garden Education. — The Education Com-
mittee of the Staffordshire County Council has
published a pamphlet respecting its scheme for
gardening in public elementary day schools. It is
intended to provide suitable practical teaching for
country boys ; and two years' experience having
proved its value in some places, it is hoped that
the scope of the scheme will now be enlarged. A
general garden, or single plots are used, according
to circumstances, and all are supervised by certi-
ficated teachers. The boys are encouraged to
note the weather, birds, insects, and other sur-
roundings, as well as the crops before them. The
satisfactory results already obtained encourage the
committee to continue their work. The report is
drawn up by Mr. Graham Balfour, Director of
Education, and by Mr. k. W. Brown.

POTATOS. — Messrs. Sutton & Sons inform us
that on Tuesday next, February 13, on the occasion
of the annual meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, they will exhibit a collection of Potatos
containing features of special interest. Included
in the collection will be specimen tubers of many
original wild species and types, some of which, so
far as they are aware, have never been exhibited
in this country.

The Gardeners- Royal Benevolent In-
stitution.— We are informed that Lord Balfour
OF Burleigh (President of the Royal Caledonian
Horticultural Society, Edinburgh, and Member of
the Council of the Royal Horticultural Society)
will preside at the 67th anniversary festi\al
dinner at the Hotel Metropole on Wednesday,
June 13. in aid of the funds of this institution.

Manuring of Hops. — Dr. Bernard Dyer
obligingly furnishes us with a summary record
of his experiments on the manuring of Hops
during the last ten years at Mr. Shrivell's
farm near Tonbridge. The general results of the
experiments appear to justify the conclusions
already- expressed, namely, that even when the
soil is otherwise liberally manured by autumn
or -winter dressings of dung, rape dust, fish
guano, etc., 4 cwt. per acre of nitrate of soda,
applied early in the spring, may be regarded
as a safe and profita...e dressing for Hops, even
in a wet season ; phosphates, of course, being
used liberally at the same time, and potash
salts if the land requires them. Such a dress-
ing (4cwt. per acre) of nitrate of soda, it would
perhaps be better not to exceed in the
case of the more delicate varieties of Hops.
If, however, neither dung nor any other nitro.
genous fertiliser has been recently applied,
there appears to be no reason to anticipate that
6 cwt. per acre of nitrate of soda would be
otherwise than, safe, even for delicate Hops ;
while for freely growing and heavily cropping
varieties as much as 8 cwt. per acre might be
used. But a more miscellaneous manuring,
including moderate dressings like 4 cwt. per
acre of nitrate of soda would probably com-
mend itself to most growers. It is not desirable
that nitrate of soda should be put on late in the
season, as is sometimes done, since this appears
to tend to delay the ripening of the Hops.

Sugar in Queensland. — .\n old correspon
dent writes in a letter received a few days ago
that "the young cane (sugar) and ratoons are
looking well, and if we get rain about the usual
time there will be another grand season ; but
drought may upset all our calculations. A farmer
close to me is cutting 45 tons to the acre. The
sugar mills are all busy, and will have a very
profitable season."

MuSA. — From the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,
has been issued what we take to be a reprint ol
certain articles previously published in the Bulletin
and elsewhere, on the species and principal varieties
of Musa. Mr. Baker's monograph of the species,
35 in number, has been incorporated to a large
extent. In addition, there is a great variety of
miscellaneous information relating to varieties,
their culture, uses, geographical distribution, and
the like. The volume is, in fact, an encyclopaedic
summary of what is known concerning Musas,
and will be very useful for reference. A few
illustrations and a sufficient index are provided.

"Electros." — We are very frequently asked
to sell, or to lend, electros from our blocks,
but, unless under special circumstances, we do
not sell or lend our blocks if they are to be
used for commercial purposes. The next ques-
tion asked is where can I procure the electros
I want? This question has hitherto been diffi-
cult to answer. It is rendered much more
easy now by the publication, by Messrs. Wat-
kins and Si-MpsON, wholesale seed merchants,
of Tavistock Street, Covent Garden, of an
"electro album" devoted to the illustration of
types of vegetables and hardy or half-hardy
flowers. Those desirous of illustrating their
catalogues with accurate representations will
find this album very serviceable. County
Council lecturers and others engaged in educa-
tional v.'ork will also find it of value to them.

" L-Art de Forcer." — M. Van den Heede
supplies for the benefit of French readers a
handy little treatise on the "Art of Forcing."
It is to be had from M. Charles Amat, Rue
Cassette 11, Paris. It deals with forcing in
general, its importance and value, the best me-
thods of carrying it out, the processes, of re-
tarding by cold, the application of ether or
chloroform, an enumeration of the most useful

90

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 10, 190t;.

plants for forcing purpose, and a variety of de-
tails of importance to those who engage in this
work. In his preface M. Van den Heede gives
some interesting particulars of the practice of
forcing in France from the time of Olivier dk
Serres (1513-1619) to the present time, when
forcing not only supplies luxuries for the
rich as in bye-gone times, but is a commercial
industry on a vast scale, in the benefits of
which the poorest have their full share.

>[LOiRE DE Lorraine. — We have received a
photograph from Mr. C. P. Lamb, the gardens,
Pinkney Park, Malmesbury, showing three ex-
cellent plants of Begonia Gloire de Lorraine,
cultivated there for Lieut-Col. Turnor. The
specimens measured 3 feet in height and 3J feet in
diameter. We should have been tempted to re-
produce the photograph but for the fact that his
popular Begonia has been already figured on
.several occasions in these columns.

A New Propagating House. — In the current
number of Revue de V Horticulliire Beige is an ac-
count of a new propagating house erected by
M. Buyssens at Vilvorde. It is simply a glass
box, raised on three layers of bricks. The roof
is nearly flat, with only just sufficient slope
from the ridge to carry the water off. The
lights at the ends, as well as at the sides, are
1-50 metre (5 feet) long by 081 in breadth (about
32 inches), so that a maximum of light is ensured.
The stages on which the plants are placed can be
raised or lowered at will by appropriate mechanism
so that the plants on an upper stage can be placed
;us near the glass as necessary, and lowered when
watering or other operations are required. At
the same time there is abundance of room and
light for a second stage beneath the upper one.
The lights, being inserted in grooves without
putty, can easily be removed for painting, cleans-
ing, or repairing the rafters, or they can be re-
moved altogether during the summer. We are
not told what provision is made for ventilation.

A New Vegetable. — M. Barial, of 3, Boule-
vard de rOuest, Le Raincy, Seine et Oise, France,
announces a new vegetable under the name of
" Ilelianthi," or American Salsafy. According to
the illustrations which have reached us, this is
none other than the tuberous stolons of some
species of Helianthus unnamed, but evidently akin
to H. rigidus. The foliage is also recommended
for forage.

Botanic Gardens. — We have received a copy
of the exchange seed list issued by the Imperial
Botanic Garden, St. Petersburg. In addition to
the general enumeration there are special lists
contcdning the names of plants obtained from
Turkestan, the Caucasus, and various Russian
provinces. The names are in Latin. The Director
is Prof. Dr. Fischer de Waldheim, to whom
application should be made before March i.

Linnean Society. — The next meeting will
take place on Thursday, February 15, 1906, at
8 p.m., when the following papers will be read : —
"The Structure of Iris hippuris " (Linnaeus), by
]. ]. Simpson; "Note on the Geographical Dis-
tribution of the Genus Shortia " (Torr. and Gray),
by W. B. Daydon Jackson, Gen. Sec. L.S. ;
■■Exhibitions": Dr. H. Charlton Bdstian,
F.R.S., F.J.I. ; "Developmental Changes in
Zooglcea" (with lantern slides).

The First County Park System. — A book,
written by Mr. Frederick W. Kelsev, claiming
to be a complete history of the inception and
development of the Essex County parks of
Is'ew Jersey has lately been published. The
author was a member and vice-president of
the first Board of Commissioners selected to
lay out the parks, and in ten years has seen
them succeed and develop to a most satisfac-
tory extent. The facts are candidly stated, and
should interest all who know the grounds, and be
of use to future workers in similar fields. Illus-

trations brighten the pages, and afford evidence of
the attractiveness claimed for these recreation
grounds and gardens. The book deals with the
inception of the enterprise, and reflects the smooth
course of progress " until the blighting influence
of special interests and of practical politics were
injected into the undertaking."

Flowers in Season. — From Messrs. Webb
and Sons, Stourbridge, we have received some
flowers of their strain of florist Primula. Ava-
lanche is white, of large size, and possesses frilled
florets. Meteor is also large, and the colour is of
pale salmon-rose. Others sent are Ruby Queen
(ruby). Eclipse (purplish-crimson), and a rose-
coloured seedling.

Horticultural Club. — The annual dinner
of the Club will be held on Tuesday, February 13,
at 6 p.m., at the Hotel Windsor. Ladies are
specially invited. After dinner there will be
music by the " Quavers" Vocal Quartette, under
the direction of Mr. Wilfred Kearton, of St.
George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The annual
meeting will take place at 5 p.m., and it is hoped
that all interested in the club will be present.

National Rose Society. — .\ meeting of the
General Purposes Committee will be held at the
Westminster Palace Hotel, Victoria Street,
Westminster (not at the Windsor), on Tuesday,
the 13th inst., at 2 p.m. Agenda: To draw up
Schedule for the Royal Botanic Gardens Show,
" The Rose Annual " and other business.

Messrs. Protheroe & Morris. — The Cen-
tral Cricket Club (in connection with the firm of
Messrs. Protheroe & Morris) held their second
annual smoking concert at "Stone's," Ludgate
Hill, on Monday evening last. Mr. J. B. Slade
was in the chair, and there was an attendance of
about 85, including Messrs. Carter, James, and
Sevmour (former members of the staff), the
employees, and their friends. The programme
lasted for 4I hours, the chief items of interest
being songs, musical sketches, &c., by Mr.
Wyatt, Mr. George Pritchard, Mr. Cox, Mr.
Alf. Amis, Mr. H. Bowers, Mr. Goddard, and
Mr. Seymour. The toast, the " C. C. C," was
given by Mr. Slade, who presided in his well-
known genial manner, and was replied to by
Captain Humphrey in suitable words. The en-
tertainment was a great success.

Royal Horticultural Society. — The
society's annual examination in the Principles
and Practice of Horticulture will be held on Wed-
nesday, March 28, igo6. Candidates should send
in their names not later than March i. Full par-
ticulars may be obtained by sending a stamped
and directed envelope to the Society's Offices,
Vincent Square, Westminster, S.W. Copies of
the questions set from 1893-1905 (price rs. gd. or
los. a dozen), may also be obtained from the
office. The society is willing to hold an examina-
tion wherever a magistrate, clergyman, school-
master or other responsible person accustomed to
examinations will consent to supervise one on the
society's behalf. In connection with this examina-
tion a scholarship of £25 a year for two years is
offered by the Worshipful Company of Gardeners,
to be awarded after the 1906 examination to the
student who shall pass highest if he is willing to
accept the conditions attaching thereto. The main
outline of these conditions is that the holder must
be of the male sex, and between the ages of 18 and
22 years, and that he should study gardening for
one year at least at the Royal Horticultural
Society's Gardens at Wisley, near Ripley, Surrey,
conforming to the general rules laid down there
for students. In the second year of the scholar-
ship he may, if he like, continue his studies at
some other place at home or abroad approved
by the Master of the Worshipful Company of
(hardeners, and by the Council of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society. In case of two or more eligible

students being adjudged equal, the council reser\e
to themselves the right to decide which of them
shall be presented to the scholarship.

The Forest Flora of New South Wales.
— Mr. J. H. Maiden has now completed part 8 of
the second volume of this useful work (part xviii
of the complete publication). The species herein
considered are the following: — Flindersia Schnt-
tiana, Eucalyptus regnans, or Giant Gum Tree,
and Casuarina tuberosa, or Black She-Oak.

Publications Received. — Select list of works
prepared at the Royal Botauic Gardens, Kew, &c., &c.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)
HippEASTRUMS (Amaryllis) at Tring Park.
— The Right Hon. Lord Rothschild has for sonn-
years past taken great interest in perfecting tht-
fine strain of Hippeastrums in his gardens at Tring
Park (gr. Mr. Arthur Dye). As each successive
batch of seedlings has flowered marked improve-
ments have been disclosed until at the present
time the magnificent show of flowers in the Trinii
Park Gardens seem to indicate that in some of the
sections the best quality possible has been ob-
tained. The production of large flowers of con-
siderable substance and equally broad segments
were the first objects in developing the strain,
preference being given to the forms which dis-
played but little green in the centre, and to those
which produced four flowers on a spike all open at .
the same time. The batch now in bloom came-
chiefly from two of the best of the Tring Park
strain, viz., King Edward VII. and St. Frusquin.
There are several distinct sections, the favourite bt -
ing one with massive flowers of a brilliant dark scar-
let. The lighter strain has very large white flowers
variously striped with scarlet, and a very attrac-
tive class has the bright red flowers with a broad
white margin. Two of the finest pure white-
varieties were obtained a few years ago, and two
or three good white forms raised from them now
in bloom will develop into better flowers than the
parents. A large number of bulbs in another
house are just sending up their spikes, so the
display will continue for a long time. J . O. B.

The Flannel Flower of Australia (see
enquiry by J. G. G., p. 80). — This is Actinotus
Helianthi. C. Bennett. Hall Green, Birmiitgliam
(late of Sydney, N.S.W.).

The Late Harrison Weir and Bull-
finches.— The recent death of Mr. Harrison
Weir reminds me of some correspondence that
passed between us some years ago respecting thi;
Bullfinch. I had sent a note to the Gardeners'
Chronicle describing the nuisance that these birds
occasioned, and complaining that they had visited
the gardens of which I had charge. 1 stated that on
the choicest trees, every fruit bud had been care-
fully dissected, and that, owing to the Bullfinches'
audacity, I had been enabled to "pick off" a
large number of them. A few days later I received
a gentle chiding from Mr. Weir for employing
such measures against the birds, and he assured
me they did a vast amount of good in destroying
innumerable insects. That was their mission, they
instinctively knew that these pests lurked beneath
the scales, &c. My reply was that no one took
greater interest in birds than myself, and that for
years I had kept a number in a spacious aviary,
but I utterly failed to comprehend what advan-
tages accrued from their visits to the bushes when
they removed every fruit bud. Most gardeners in
the country are well aware of their destructi\e
capabilities. In some gardens they are but seldom
seen, and doubtless tlie presence of extensive
woodlands and game coverts in close proximity to
the gardens under notice would account for their
unusual numbers. The gardener in an adjoining-
estate found it necessary to cover all his fruit
trees with wire netting, a perfect square being
formed round each tree. Walter H. Aggcit, Supt..
Public Gardens, Bermondsey, S.E.

Apple Charles Ross. — It is disappointing to
learn from some growers of this new Apple, one
that at the outset gave such rich promise of ex-
cellence, that with them the fruits have been of
inferior merit. But whilst there could be no
question that the fruits first exhibited to the
R.H.S. Fruit Committee by Mr. Ross, and pro-
bably from the seedling tree, were of ricli flavour

Febkiary jo, 1906 3

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

91

and undoubted excellence, so also were the fruits
to which the first prize was awarded in the class
tor any other dessert Apple at the great show of
British fruit held last October. In that case the
fruits were not exceptionally large, but were so
richly flavoured and good as to evoke from myself
and my fellow judges the highest praise. These
two instances show that the Charles Ross Apple has
qualities that growers, so far, have largely failed
to bring out. It would be interesting to learn
from the grower of those first prize fruits the con-
ditions of their production. My impression is that
as the variety being new has so far fruited on
young trees only (except perhaps in a few cases
where worked on old trees), the fruits have
suffered in quality because the trees have been
rather overfed, resulting in the production of large
fruits. The more they approached in size those
of one parent. Peasgood's Nonsuch, they naturally
lacked the richer flavour and excellence found in
the fruits of the other parent, It will be no matter
for surprise to find Charles Ross producing from
elderly trees, and especially orchard-standards,
fruits of that rich excellence which, though smaller
in size, marks the fruits of Cox's Orange Pippin so
grown. From such trees I have invariably found the
fruits to be of richer flavour, just as is found also in
fruits of Blenheim Pippin. It will then be found
that in granting Charles Ross a F.C.C. the Fruit
Committee did not make the mistake usually
charged upon it. — A. Dean.

Winter - flowering Carnations. — There
being much interest shown in winter-flowering
Carnations at the present time, and particularly in
the newer American varieties, I am sending a few
blooms with this note. My experience with them
has shown these varieties to be valuable acquisi-
tions to our winter-blooming Carnations. En-
chantress, perhaps one of the best known of the
group, is a lovely variety of a popular shade of
pink colour. Ilalowarden is a very large crimson
flower and a strong grower. Lady Bountiful, pure
white, is magnificent ; the flowers are of large size,
and the plants b oom very freely. Royalty is of
salmon-pink colour, a good variety, but not so
robust here as most others are. Nelson Fisher is a
most effective colour after the manner of Mrs.
T. \V. Lawson, but deeper in shade. Reliance, pure
white, at present is not so good with us as Lady
Bountiful. Dorothy Witney is quite a new colour
in the tree section, being yellow, striped with
pink, very rich indeed; the flowers are of perfect
form, but hardly so large in size as those of some
other varieties. Her Majesty, white with faint
rose stripes, is a beautiful bloom, but is not a very
strong grower with us at present. Of the older
varieties, Mrs. T. W. Lawson is one of the very
best, strong and healthy in its growth, producing
plenty of good blooms on long, stiff stems. Mrs.
S. J. Brooks, pure white, is a splendid companion
for this, and succeeds remarkably well here.
Floriana, another fine variety, is of a pleasant
shade of pink colour; the flowers are of good size,
and the plants grow well. Alpine Glow is also a
good shade of pink colour. A point in favour of
the newer varieties is the long, stiff stems, which
make them doubly valuable for decorative pur-
poses, and I believe that they will be much
fa^foured where the best Carnations are grown.
]. G. IVfstoii, Eastii'dl PmIi Gardens. Kent. [The
flowers sent by our correspondent are exceedingly
bright and pleasing. — Ed. J

Chrysanthemum Baron de Vinols. — I
noticed the remarks of C. H . P. under the above
heading on p. 51. This variety is synonymous with
Caprice du Printemps, which has been largely
grown for decorative and market purposes in this
country for several years past. A sport from it,
Kathleen Thompson, received an Award of Merit
from the Royal Horticultural Society in the
autumn of 1904. and judging from the description
of Mme. George BarrS in a French catalogue,
I think this variety is synonymous with Kathleen
Thompson, thus showing tliat the parent. Caprice
du Printemps, has given similar sports on both
sides of the Channel. 1. G.

To Brighten Beds of Azaleas and Rhodo-
dendrons.— F. AI., according to his note on
p. 46, would, if permitted, make a good jungle
planter; for his style of planting is in very bad
taste, as all plants such as he names have a beauty
of their own at all seasons of the year. Azaleas
are crimson and gold in the autumn. Fancy
Rambler Roses and Scotch Roses in a Rhododen-
dron bed I A Scotch Rose, like a Scotchman,
once well planted, wants plenty of room and a lot
of shifting. R. M-, Gulden Lily, January 22, 100G.

Cystopteris fragilis sempervirens. — By

the courtesy of Mr. Somerville of Glasgow I have
recently received several fronds of a form of
Cystopteris fragilis, found in Scotland by Mr.
William Young of Kirkcaldy, which appear to
answer to the description of the sempervirens form
of the species described by Mr. Britten in page 23
of his "European Ferns" as being a native of
Madeira, except perhaps as regards the greater
size of the anterior basal pinnules "and the glan-
dular hairy vestiture of the indusium which is
conspicuous in the fresh plant." The sempervi-
rent character, however, is abundantly shown by
the fact that I have just received (Jan. 31) per-
fectly green fronds taken by Mr. Young from his
plant under glass, while the ordinary C. fragilis is
deciduous, dying down entirely in the autumn.
Mr. Young's plant is furthermore distinguished by
its very robust growth, the fronds attaining 18
inches in length as is shown by the accompanying
specimen, while as a rule I have never seen the
fronds more than half that size. Under the above
circumstances I consider that Mr. Young is per-
fectly justified in considering his find 10 be really
C. fragilis var. sempervirens, of which previous
finds in this country appear to have been doubt-
fully recorded. Chas. T. Dritery, V.M.H. F.L.S.

Iris tuberosa. — The snake's-head Iris, men-
tioned by Capt. Pinwill in his note on page 78, is
apparently not very exacting in its requirements
in the south-west. Capt. Pinwill writes of an
old group doing well in a shady wood. With me
this Iris prospers under very different conditions,
for a colony growing in the full sunshine in the
open on a southern slope, that becomes dust dry
in hot summers, never fails to flower well. That
it does not flower freely in all portions of the
Kingdom may be gathered from the notes of
correspondents resident in divers localities in
England and Scotlai*J. In South Devon it is,
in one place, to be found growing in a quasi wild
condition in the hedgerow. It is a quaint and
soberly pretty flower with its pale green standards
and velvet-black falls, and has the additional
merit of fragrance. The quadrilateral foliage is
also curious. In Italian gardens it goes by the
name of La Vedovina, the Little Widow. S. W.
l-'ilzhctbert.

Fifteen Pounds Annual Rent per Acre
FROM Timber Trees. — I believe that a crop of
houses in any large manufacturing town will give
a bigger return than that which Mr. Simpson
([uotes (for forest land) on page 78. But Tlie
Forester, by Dr. Nisbet, states that by a judicious
selection of exotic forest trees and also by manuring
the ground thoroughly, these trees will pay. Will,
however, the extra cost in plants above that of
the native or semi-native species pay as well for
what seems to be the uses to which timber will in
future be put, namely, for the making of sleepers,
wood-wool, etc. ? Alee. D. Berney, Stantilx, Carlisle.

Nicotiana Sander/e. — In reference to Mr.
W. H. Diver's note on p. 76 respecting Nicotiana
Sanderse continuing to flower in so low an atmos-
pheric temperature as 45" to 55°, I may say that
I have at the present time plants that have been
in flower since September last, and they have
still flowers of a good shade of colour and satis-
factory foliage. I intend growing more of this
plant mother season, as I have a house 130 feet
long to keep filled with flowering plants. The
atmospheric temperature averages from 45° to 53".
It is quite possible to have Nicotiana Sanderae
in flower all the year round. IV. G. Edwards,
Plymouth.

Hazel in Bloom. — With reference to your
record on p. 72 I noted a nut bush, " Prolific
Cob," had expanded female flowers on December
27 last. It was planted on January 29, 1905, and
flowered after, so this plant has flowered twice in
one year. The plant is fully exposed to the
weather in an open orchard, not even a line fence
to screen the wind. I noted several male flowers
in the hedgerows prior to this. Cymru, Castlc-
Caereinion, Welshpool.

The Fern Paradise. — As the criticisms of
your re\-ie\\ er of my ' ' Fern Paradise ' ' are, per-
haps unconsciously, unfair, I ask you to favour
me with a brief reply. The writer of your
"notice" has missed the "point" or object of
the book, which is to serve as " a plea for the
culture of ferns." This, in fact, is its plainly-
written sub-title. It is not intended for expert
botanists ; it is not designed to convert those who
are already converted ; it has a "mission " which
has been very largely accomplished. Special
mention of detailed "varieties" was purposely

excluded, as no one knows better probably than
your contributor that the simple purpose of the
volume would have been largely defeated had it
been overloaded with descriptions of the multi-
tudinous number of departures from normal forms.
That is the purpose of another book now pre-
paring. With due deference to your contributor,
1 maintain that "ferns are seed-bearing plants."
Spores are seeds, though seeds are not always
spores [?J . I also maintain that " many ferns"
(I do not say species of ferns) "that grow in Devon-
shire are never seen in other counties." Francis
George Heath, Underwood, Kcw Gardens.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

The following extracts are taken from the

report of the Council to be presented at the

one hundred and second annual meeting on

Tuesday, February 13, at the Hall in Vincent
Square : —

The One Hundred and Second Year.
The year 1905 has been one of development
and steady progress in every direction of the
Society's manilold operations. The new hall
and the new garden at Wisley have both
demanded much and careful consideration, and
it is satisfactory to note that each of them has
far exceeded the most sanguine expectations
of their suitability for the Society's purposes.

The Finances.

The attention of th'> Fellows is directed to
the satisfactory position of the Society, not
only as regards its present resources and tho
number of Fellows, but also in respect to the
largely increased privileges of the Fellows and
the greatly augmented general work of the
Society for the promotion of practical and
scientific liorticulture. As will be seen from
the balance-sheet, the Society has invested
£18,430 in public securities ; the hall, with its
equipment and furniture, represents at least
£41,000 ; and the works already executed at
Wisley have cost over £6,600. All these are
genuine assets to the credit of the Society ; and,
despite the increased necessary expenditure at
Vincent Square compared with that at the
Drill Hall, the credit balance on the year's
workine is £6,203.

[The financial statement, we may mention,
shows a credit balance for the year of £6,203.
The Temple .Show was a great success ; the
Chelsea Show, in spite of the attractiveness of
the locality, entailed a loss of nearly £500. The
receipts for letting the hall, when not required
for horticultural purposes, amounted to over
£700. The sale of the Chiswick lease brought
in £4,673. The new hall has cost about
£38.924; dwelling-houses at Wisley, £2,236;
glasshouses at Wisley, £3,295. The approxi-
mate value of the investments is £16,811.]

Deputations.

The Society was represented at the great
International Horticultural Show at Pans in
May, 1905, by Sir Albert RoUit, Bart.,
Major Holford, CLE., C.V.O., Mr. J. Gurney
Fowler, Mr. Harry J. Veitch, F.L.S., and the
secretary, who were empowered by the Council
to award the Society's medals to exhibits of
conspicuous excellence. As a slight acknowledg-
ment of the gracious reception accorded to the
deputation by the President of the Republic
and Madame Loubet, the Council presented
him with the Society's Flora medal in gold
suitably inscribed, with which Monsieur Loubet
expressed himself as being much gratified.

Another deputation consisting of the Presi-
dent, Mr. George Bunyard, V.M.H., Mr. James
Pludson, V.M.H., Mr. A. H. Pearson, Mr. II.
B. May, Mr. H. J. Veitch, F.L.S., and the
secretary, visited the International Horticul-
tural Exhibition at Edinburgh on September
loth, when medals were also awarded, and the
deputation met with every kindness and atten-
tion.

The Cou.ncil.

In the spring of 1905, the Council heard with
the deepest regret that, owing to the state of
his health. Baron Schroder was unable to con-
tinue to occupy his seat on their board. As
this decision was definite, the Council would,
had it been possible, at once have invited tho

92

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Fkuruary 10, 1906.

i^ellows to put so honoured a name on the list
■of vice-presidents of the Society, but as it was
"found that this could only be done at an
■annual meeting, they had no choice but to
postpone it till the present occasion when they
are confident that the heartiness of the vote of
the Fellows will be in no way affected by the
unavoidable delay. Baron Schroder's services
to the Society and to horticulture generally
are such as will ever make his name respected
and beloved by all gardeners and plant lovers
who will, one and all, join in wishing that he
may enjoy many years of rest in his retire-
ment.

A very heavy loss to the Council and to the
Society — as indeed to many other public insti-
tutions— was e.xperienced towards the close of
the year by the death of the Kt. Hon. the Earl
of Ilchester, who took the l-.veliest interest in
the welfare of the Society, and only quite re-
cently he had again given permission for the
show to be repeated on July 10th and 11th,
1906, a privilege which has since been most
kindly confirmed by the' Dowager Countess of
tlchester.

Retiring Members of Council.

Under bye-law 60 the three members of
Council who have been longest in oiBce retire
each year but are eligible for re-election. The
three thus retiring this year are Major Holford,
C.V.O., C.I.E., Mr. H. B. May, and the Hon.
W. F. D. Smith, M.P., who was appointed by
the Council to sit in the place of Baron
Schroder; there is also the vacancy caused by
Lord llchester's death to be filled.

Victoria Medal of Honour.

During the past year five of the oldest and
most respected holders of the Victoria Medal
of Honour in Horticulture have passed away
in the persons of Mr. William Paul, of Wal-
thara Cross ; Mr. Richard Dean, of Ealing ;
the Rev. H. Honywood D'Ombrain, of the
National Rose Society ; Mr. F. W. Burbidge,
of Trinity College, Dublin ; and Mr. Henry
Eckford, of Wem, to whom we owe so many
of the most beautiful Sweet Peas.

Annual Progress.
The following abstract will show the Society's
progress in regard to numerical strength dur-
ing the past year: — Loss by death in 1905, 94,
£113 8s. ; Joss by resignation, etc., 485,
£573 6s.— total, 579, £686 14s. Fellows elected
in 1905, 1,330, £1,964 Os. 6d. ; deduct loss,
£686 14s. — nett increase in income, £1,277 6s.
6d. New Fellows, etc., 1,330 ; deduct resigna-
tions and deaths, 579 ; numerical increase dur-
ing the year 1905, 751. The total number of
Fellows, members, associates, and affiliated
societies is now 9,111.

Journal.
The Journal continues to maintain its
position in the esteem of the Fellows, and its
high ranli among the publications of the scien-
tific societies of Europe and America.

Editorship.
The rapid increase in late years of the
general work of the Society has rendered it
impossible for the secretary to continue to act
also as editor of the Journal, and the Coun-
cil have pleasure in announcing that they have
secured the services of Mr. George S. Saunders,
F.L.S. (son of that staunch supporter of the
Society, the late Mr. Wilson Saunders, F.R.S.),
to take over the superintendence of this part of
the Society's work.

Pamphlets.
• The second edition of that most useful
pamphlet on " Rules for Judging and Hints lo
Schedule Makers" which was first published in
1896, having become exliausted, a third, and
greatly amended edition has been issued. A
newly revised edition of the popular pamphlet
on " Varieties of Fruits for Cottagers, Small
Farmers and Private Gardens " has also been
published with additional notes on root-prun-
ing, etc., and the whole has been brought up
to date. A new edition of the list of Orchid
awards given by the Society from 1859 to
December 31st, 1905, has also been prepared,
and Fellows can be supplied with it on appli-
cation at a cost of 5s., which is much less
than the cost of production.

Examinations.
The Society's thirtsenth annual examination

in the Principles and Practice of Horticulture
was held on April 12th, 1905, when 160 candi-
dates entered, and the result will be found in
the Journal (Vol. xxix., pages 688-692).

The examination will be again held on Wed-
nesday, March 28th, 1906, at as many centres
as may be necessary to suit the convenience of
candidates.

The examination in cottage and allotment
gardening for elementary and technical school
teachers only, which was held for the first time
in 1904, was repeated on April 5th, 1905, when
139 entries were received as against 124 in
1904. In order to further encourage the candi-
dates in this examination, the Council have
decided that those who pass in the first class,
and desire to become Fellows of the Society,
shall be exempted from the payment of the
entry fee, a privilege hitherto confined to work-
ing gardeners earning their living thereby, and
Fellows permanently resident outside the
United Kingdom. This examination will again
take place in London and at other centres in
the provinces on Wednesday, April 11th, 1906.

In compliance with a request from certain
county council authorities, the Council of the
Society consented to hold a special examination
on January 11th, 1906, for gardeners employed
in the London and other town public parka and
gardens.

Local Societies.

A scheme for the affiliation of local horticul-
tural and cottage garden societies was put for-
ward in 1890, and more than two hundred local
societies have availed themselves of it. They
have caused a new medal to be struck which
is only to be used by affiliated societies, and
which is supplied to them at cost price. The
affiliated societies have also many other privi-
leges, particulars of which may be obtained
from the office.

Information.

The Council note with much satisfaction that
the number of Fellows seeking information from
the Society's officers continues to increase
rapidly, and some thousands of answers have
been given to enquiries of every description.

The Society's Hall.
The new hall has exceeded the most sanguine
expectations of the Council and Fellows, both
in respect of its suitability for the Society's
purposes and of the demand for hiring it by
other societies and individuals. The past year
has been one of completion, improvement, and
development. Various minor defects and faults
have naturally been discovered, and these have
been, or are being, corrected. A stepped plat-
form-superstructure has been made for orches-
tral performances, which is almost identical
with that formerly used at St. James's Hall.

Legacies and Gifts to the Hall.

Two very welcome bequests have been
received during the past year, one of £250
under the will of the late Mrs. Begley, of St.
Peter's Square, Hammersmith ; the other of
£50 under the will of the late Mr. J. Cohen, of
St. Mark's Crescent, Regent's Park. The
Council venture to remind Fellows of this wav
of handing on the benefits and enjoyment of the
Society to future generations.

Various other gifts have been received, in-
cluding a handsome clock for the Council
chamber from Lady Macleay, in memory of Sir
George Macleay, of Pendell Court; a micro-
scope, for the use of the Scientific Committee
from Mrs. H. H. France-Hayhurst ; and
another for use at Wisley from General Sir
Henry Yorke, K.C.B. Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., President of the Society, has also pre-
sented two additional high power object lenses
for each of the microscopes.

Letting.
In issuing the regulations for letting the hall
and other parts of the building, the Council
adopted a liberal policy. They further decided
to make considerable reductions to charitable
institutions and horticultural societies This
policy has resulted in the hall becoming popu-
lar with lessees, who have in several cases
desired to hire it annually, and have recom-
?7m 1, " u° "'^'"^ i^'i^nds, so that no less than
1905 received during the first year

The Library.
The whole of the books in the library have
been cleaned and put in order at the .«oIe

charge of Baron Schroder, V.M.H., and the
Council have caused a brass tablet recording
the fact to be erected in the Library. The
Veitch Memorial Trustees have also made a
donation of £50 towards the funds of the
[Lindley] library.

Shows in 1906.

The shows during the past 3'ear have num-
bered 27, occupying 36 days in all ; and already
33 shows have been arranged for 1906, lasting
over 42 days. These include 24 fortnightly
meetings, one Hcme-Grown Fruit Show, three
Colonial-Grown Fruit Shows, one Special
Show of Table and other Decorations, and the
Annual Shows of Sweet Peas, Carnations,
Autumn Roses, and Potatos, to which the
Council have arranged for Fellows' tickets to
admit.

The Temple Show.

By the kindness of the Master and Benchers,
tho Society was able to hold its great show "f
flowers, for the eighteenth year in succession,
on May 30th and 31st and June 1st in the
gardens of the Inner Temple, and, despite the
extremely unsettled weather, both the exhibits
and the attendance exceeded the average of
the last few years. Arrangements have been,
made for the show to be held on May 29th,
30th, and 31st, 1906.

The Summer Show.
By the kind permission of the Lords Com-
missioners the Great Summer Show of 1905
was held in the grounds of the Royal Military
Hospital, Chelsea. Only a short time before
his death the late Earl of Ilchester again most
kindly placed Holland House Park at the
Society's disposal for the 1906 Summer Show,
on July 10th and 11th.

F'ruit and Vegetable Show.
The Society's twelfth Annual Show of
British-Grown F'ruit was held in the Hall on
October 10th, 11th and 12th; a Show of Home-
Grown Vegetables on October 24th ; and a
special exhibition of Home-Grown Bottled and
Preserved Fruits on December 5th and 6th.

Colonial Fruit Shows.
Two further shows of Colonial Fruit and
Vegetable products in succession to that on
December 13th and 14th, 1904, have been held,
on March 30th and 31st, and December 5th and
6th, 1905. The interest taken in these has led the
Council to arrange for similar shows on March
22nd, 23rd, and 24th, June 6th and 7th, and
December 4th and 6th.

Kindred Societies.

The following shows were held by kindred
societies in connection with certain of the
Society's fortnightly exhibitions in 1905: —
April 25th. — National Auricula and Primula
Show. May 23rd. — National Tulip Show.
July 4. — National Sweet Pea Show. July 18th.
— National Carnation and Picotee Show. Sept.
26th and 27th. — National Autumn Rose Show.

These societies will continue to hold their
shows at the Hall, but they will not in future
take place on days fixed for the Royal Horti-
cultural Society's own exhibitions. The Coun-
cil have, however, made arrangements by
which R.H.S. tickets will admit to these Kin-
dred Societies' Shows.

Conference of F'ruit Growers.
In connection with the show of British-
Grown F'ruit, a conference on fruit growing
was held by the Society in conjunction with
the National F'ruit Growers' Federation on
October 10th, 11th, 12th. The conference at-
tracted considerable attention and was well
attended. The papers read, and a complete il-
lustrated report of the discussion, will be pub-
lished as a separate volume of the Society's
Journal early in the spring of 1906.

Speci.al Orchid Classes in 1906.
At the suggestion of the Orchid committee
the Council have adopted a schemej which
they hope will have the effect during the ensu-
ing year of including Orchid growers, both
large and small, amateur and professional, to
exhibit their already certificated and other
choice varieties at the fortnightly shows of the
Society. Without in any way wishing to alter
or curtail the exhibits as at present showm,
which they hope will be continued exactly as they
are now, they propose to award additional

February 10, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

n

diplomas to plants of exceptional merit staged
in one group. This group will b© composed of
all the exhibits duly entered for this special
competition in accordance with the schedule.
They hope that by this means groups may be
biought together representing as far as possible
all the varieties of the particular species de-
cided upon for exhibition on each occasion, to-
gether with the hybrids having that species as
one of their narents. At the same time the
■Society's paintings of the species, and hybrids
therefrom, to which awards have already been
given, will be exhibited. They believe thai
these exhibits will have a great educational
value to hybridists, orchidists, and the Fellows
generally, and they rely upon all Orchid
glowers to assist them in making the exhibit as
complete as possible.

International Conference on Plant
Breeding.

Very successful conferences on plant breed-
ing, whether by hybridisation or by cross-fe>.-
tilisation, have been held already, one in Lon-
don under the Society's auspices in 1899, and
a second in New York under the auspices of
the Horticultural Society of New York, U.S.A.,
in 1902. A third has now been arranged by the
Council to take place in London, commencing
on July 30th, and concluding on August 3rd,
190G.

It is felt that such conferences afford an un-
usually good opportunity for scientific and
practical men to become acquainted with each
other's methods and ideas, and it is hoped that
representatives of both classes of students will
respond to this invitation to take part in the
proceedings.

\VlSLEY.

The new garden, which was so generously
presented to the Society by Sir Thomas Han-
bury, V.M.H., .K.C.V.U., is gradually getting
into thorough working order. Fine collections
of flowering shrubs have been received from
the Director of Kew Gardens, and from the
leading nurserymen ; and representative collec-
tions of Roses have also been given by the prin-
cipal Rose growers. Much, however, still re-
mains to be done as soon as the state of the
finances will permit.

Mr. George Massee, V.M.H., has kindly un-
dertaken some original research work in the
garden, especially regarding the possible trans-
lerence of the Hazel-bud-mite to the Black-
currant, which, when completed, will be pub-
lished in the Society's Journal. The want of a
properly-equipped research station is becoming
daily more acutely felt.

The number of visitors to the Gardens ad-
mitted by Fellow's tickets during the year 1905
amounted to J,2a0. This number is exclusive
of horticultural parties, which were admitted
by special arrangement, and would bring up
the total to over 6,000.

Students.
Students are admitted to Wisley for a period
of two years, and are trained in practical hor-
ticulture. Some of them also attend the
Society's lectures and shows in the new hall
and elsewhere. A small horticultural library is
attached to the Gardens for their use. Every
opportunity and encouragement is given to
students, who use application, to master the
whole of the general subject of practical horti-
culture, and as soon as a scientific department
can be established, elementary science as it
affects horticulture will be added to the curri-
culum. More than 90 per cent, of the old
garden-students are doing well. The Council
are quite unable to meet the applications for
energetic, trustworthy young men, but they
must alt be workers. During the past year ap-
plications were received for 34 head gardeners,
V single-handed gardeners, 12 foremen, 9
journeymen, and for many miscellaneous men,
such as nursery foremen, landscape gardeners,
jjropagators, &c. In the great majority of cases
the applicants were supplied with suitable men.

- The Meteorological Station.
The meteorological observations which were
initiated in 1825 at the Chiswick Gardens, and
are, therefore, the oldest series in the metro-
politan area, are now being carried on at Wis-
ley with a station which is regarded as one of
the finest in the kingdom as regards both its

situation and its equipment. The annual re-
cords are published in the Society's Journal.

Gifts to the Garden.
Besides the microscopes already mentioned,
Mr. J. WiUings has given a most useful wag-
gonette.

CON'CLUSION.

In concluding the report for the past year
and the forecast for 1906, the Council feel that
they may justly congratulate the Society on be-
ing the most prosperous Royal Scientific
Society in the kingdom, the privileges of whose
Fellows are in excess of those of any similar
institution. At the same time they feel that
what has been done in the past will be sur-
passed in the future, provided the Fellows do
not relax their exertions, but rather make a re-
newed effort to wipe off the debt still remaining
on the Hall, to complete the equipment of
Wisley by the erection of a horticultural re-
search station, and to increase the roll of Fel-
lows to 10,000 by the end of the 102nd year of
the Society, which closes on March 6th, 1906.
— By order of the Council,

W. WiLKS, Secretary.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

An-nual Meeting.
February 5. — The annual meeting of the mem-
bers of the National Chrysanthemum Society
took place on Monday evening last at Carr's
Restaurant, Strand. Mr. C. E. Shea (President)
occupied the chair, and there were present about
50 members. The report of the executive com-
mittee was presented, and on the suggestion of
the chairman it was taken as read. We extract
the following paragraphs : —

Extracts from the Report of the Executive
Committee.

"Three exhibitions were held at the Crystal
Palace in 1905. At the October Show the trade
exhibits of early flowering Chrysanthemums and
the floral decorations were most attractive features.
Some very pretty exhibits of Dahlias, Begonias,
etc., were staged in the Miscellaneous Section. In
many classes at the November Show the competi-
tion was exceptionally keen. In the Decorative
Classes some very fine exhibits were put up ; and
the Miscellaneous Section, consisting of groups of
Chrysanthemums, retarded plants, etc., and some
tables of Carnations made a very attractive exhi-
bition. The December Show was a highly satis-
factory one, the entries in some classes being
considerably abo\e the average.

' ' A Conference on Early Flowering Varieties was
held in connection with the October Show, papers
being read by Messrs. D. B. Crane, C. Harman
Payne, J. W. Moorman, E. F. Hawes, G. Gordon,
V.M.H. and E. F. Such. The attendance was
highly satisfactory. The papers will be issued as
a separate report bv the Honorary Secretary, Mr.
C. H. Curtis.

' ' Arrangements have been made w-ith the Crystal
Palace Company to hold three Exhibitions at
Sydenham in the present year on the following
dates ; — October 3 and 4, November 7, S and 9,
December 5 and 6.

" Following the success of the Exhibition of
Market Crysanthemums at the Essex Hall in 1904,
your Committee held a repetition at the French
Flower Market, Covent Garden, by kind permis-
sion of his Grace the Duke of Bedford, which
proved a great advancement, both in quality of the
exhibits and in its arrangement. From a financial
point of view it has also been successful, there
being a satisfactory balance in hand.

"Six meetings of the Floral Committee were
held during the season, three at the Essex Hall
and three at the Crystal Palace. The number of
novelties submitted to the committee has been
largely in excess of that for many years past, and
a higher standard of excellence has been main-
tained. Thirty-six First Class Certificates were
awarded. The number of meetings for the present
year is increased to seven.

" The Annual Dinner was held at the Holborn
Restaurant on November 2S, the President occupy-
ing the chair. A most enjoyable evening was
spent by those present, who numbered over 100.
Fruit and flowers were contributed by several
members.

' ' In November the National Chrysanthemum
Society received a special invitation to attend the
International Autumn Show of Chrysanthemums,
Fruit, iSrc, held in Paris by the National Hor-

ticultural Society of France, and several members
attended, being honoured with prominent positions
on the jury. A report of this visit will be found
in the schedule.

' ' In recognition of the valuable services rendered
by Mr. G. L. Caselton, Superintendent of the
Crystal Palace, at the various shows, your com-
mittee, on the occasion of the annual dinner, pre-
sented him with the society's Gold Medal suitably
inscribed.

" The society is in a satisfactory financial con-
dition. The reserve fund amounts to ;f 119 ris. 4d.,
of which /115 is on deposit.

" It is to be hoped that members will use their
utmost endeavours to increase the membership
during the present year."

On rising to move the adoption of the report,
the President referred to the services rendered by
the late Secretary, Mr. R. Dean, and said tliat as
time continued to pass, and it became possible to
make a retrospect, it would be more clearly seen
how valuable Mr. Dean's services had really been.
The committee invited criticism of the report, for
it was necessary the society should advance, other-
wise it must suffer, for in regard to such institutions
there could be no standing still. Then Mr. Shea
again referred to the subject of literature which he
mentioned on the occasion of the annual dinner,
and recommended that the society should publish
a Year Book, or something of that nature, that
would constitute a good return for the subscrip-
tions obtained from country members who were
not necessarily exhibitors. The eftect of tlie adop-
tion of such policy had very greatly benefited the
Rose Society during the past three years. In
regard to the schedule he would recommend the
committee to have some new feature at their shows
every year if possible. Mr. ]. H. Witty seconded
the motion for the adoption of the report and
balance sheet, and the subject became open for
discussion. Mr. Moorman did not wish to cause
any alarm by the sounding of a pessimistic
note, but he drew attention to the fact that
the society owed a sum of about /119 7s. to
its exhibitors, and he hoped an effort would be
made to disc/iarge this liability soon, even if the
sum had to be taken from the society's deposit
account.

The Crystal Palace Company owes the society
a considerable sum of money, and Mr. T.
Bevan (chairman of committee) and Mr. Taylor,
treasurer, stated that they expected to receive this
shortly, although all their efforts to obtain it
had failed up to the present. In any case the
exhibitors would be paid soon. The president
recommended that the Crystal Palace Company
should be threatened with proceedings. Mr. Taylor
(an exhibitor) drew attention to the fact that a
sum almost equal to the amount oflered in prizes at
the December Show had been spent in luncheons
and refreshments for tlie committee and friends.
He thought that the sum was larger than it should
be. Mr. Bevan explained that non-competitive
exhibitors were invited to lunch on the Show day,
and he thought the policy a good one.

Mr. Williams (Ealing) complained that amateurs
were pitted against tradesmen in the class for a
decorated table, and that the committee still
looked for its judges amongst members of the
society rather than select persons who were not
members.

After a vote of thanks had been passed to the
auditors, Mr. C. Harman Payne, referring to the
conference on early flowering Chrysanthemums
which was held in October, said that much of the
success of that event v.'as due to Mr. C. H. Curtis,
who had acted in the capacity of honorary secre-
tary. The committee therefore recommended
that a Silver Medal be given to Mr. Curtis as a
souvenir of the conference. This medal was then
handed by the President to Mr. Curtis.

The Question of General Secretary.

The following motion was proposed by Mr. T.
Bevan, and seconded by Mr. Hawes — "That
this meeting, at its rising, stand adjourned until
April 30 next at 7 p.m., and that the committee
be empowered in the meantime to retain the
sendees of Mr. Gerald Dean as general secretary
pro tern., until a permanent secretary is elected
at the adjourned meeting." This was carried
unanimously.

Election of Officers.

The president, Mr. C. E. Shea; treasurer, Mr.
A. Taylor; chairman, Mr. Thos. Bevan; vice-
chairman, Mr. J. H. Witty; and hon. foreign
corresponding secretary. Mr. C. Harman Payne,
were re-elected. Including retiring members of

94

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

[Fedecaev 10, 190G.

the executive committee and resignations, there
■were fourteen members to be elected that night.
Election was by ballot, and the following gentle-
men were elected:— G. Castleton. E. F. Hawes,
D. Ingamells, E. Jones, R. E. Reeve, C. Want,
J Windibank, G. Cover, F. G. Oliver. W. Harri-
son, W. Wells, H. J. Jones, J. B. Riding, and
Percy Cragg.

Speci.\l Prizes.
' During the time occupied in counting the votes,
a little discussion took place, which turned largely
on the question of decorative exhibits at the
shows, and, eventually, the president offered a
Silver Cup, value three guineas, for a table decor-
ated with small flowers of Chrysanthemums. Any
number of vases or other receptacles might be
employed at the discredon of the individual exhi-
bitor, but no large flowers should be used. The

Market Lavington, and there gave bis attention
largely to the raising and growing of Fuchsias and
Potatos. Whilst the varieties of the latter which
he raised have been elbowed out of commerce by
newer ones, many of his Fuchsias to-day still rank
amongst the very best in cultivation — indeed, none
are more beautiful, have better habits, or flower
more abundantly. Mr. Lye was a very cap-
able raiser and first-class grower of specimens,
and the noble pyramids he grew at Clyffe Hall,
g to 10 feet in height, and referred to in an article
in the Gariencrs' Chronicle, February 14, 18S5, were
never excelled out of the West of England. He
had retired from active life for several years, but
still retained his love for Fuchsia-raising to the
last. A.V

heaviest fall of snow as yet this winter. For four days there
has been no measurable percolation through either of the soil
gauges. The sun shone on an average for 3J hours a day, or
for over an hour a day longer than is usual at this season.
The wind has been variable both in strength and direction.
On the windiest day the highest record for any hour was 18
miles — direction VV.N.W. — whereas on the calmest day the
average rate of movement was only about a mile an hour.
The mean amount of moisture in the air at three o'clock in
the afternoon was as much as 9 per cent, less than a season-
able quantity for that hour. Narcissus minimus first came
into flower in my garden on the ist, which is 15 days earlier
than its average date in the previous eight years, a«d earlier
than in any of those years.

January.
A remarkahty warm, wet and sunny January. Ib the last
20 years there have been only three warmer Januarys. On
the warmest day the temperature in the thermometer
screen rose to ss'', and on the coldest night the exposed
thermometer registered 16° of frost— both unusually high

THE r.XTE JAMES I,YE, AND ONE OF HIS PRIZE GEOtirS OF FUCH.SIA.

prize should be awarded for general effect only.
A second prize of two guineas was oftered by the
firm of Messrs. Cragg, Harrison, and Cragg, and
a third prize of thirty shillings by Mr. WiUiams,
Ealing.

THE WEATHER.

James Lye. — On Saturday last, at a ripe age,
a victim to paralysis, there passed away at Market
Lavington, Wilts., a gardener in the person of
James Lye, who had the warm esteem and regard
of a wide circle of friends, and who had made for
liimself a good name in horticulture. For very
many years he was gardener at Clyffe Hall,

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS,
A change to cold 'd^cathcr. After ten days of unseason-
ably high temperatures the weather became cold on the 3rd,
and since then low readings have prevailed. On the warmest
day of the past week the temperature in the thermometer
screen rose to 49°, whereas on the coldest day it did
not rise higher than 38". On the coldest night the ex-
posed thermometer registered i6« of frost. Although
this is by no means an exceptionally low reading for
?'ebruary it has only once before been equalled during
the present winter. Thr ground is now at about a season-
able temperature at two feet deep, but nearly z" colder than
the average at one foot deep. Rain or snow tell on
four days, but the total fall amounted to only about
a tenth of an inch. On the morning of the 5th the
ground was nearly covered with snow, but as the day ad-
\anced this slight layer quickly melted. This was the

extreme readings for tlic month. Rain fell o» as many
as 20 days, and to the total depth of 4 inches, which
is I* inches in excess of the average for the pre-
vious' 50 years. This was the wettest January smci-
j«77, or for 29 years. No snow at all fell. A quantity of
water equal to the whole of the rainfall of the month came
through both percolation gauges. The sun shone on an
average for two hours a day, or for half an hour a day
longer than is usual. In fact, there have been only three
other Januarys as sunny during the past 20 years. In
no previous January during that period have there been as
few sunless days— only four. The winds were, as a rule,
imusually high, and on the windiest day a mean velocity
of 26 miles was recorded for the windiest hour -direction
W.S.W. The air was exceptionally dry for the time of

Our underground water supply. Since the winter half of
the drainage year began in October the total rainfall has
fallen short of the average for those four months by three-
quarters of an inch, equivalent to a loss on each acre in
this district of 16,740 gallons. At the same time last year
the deficiency amounted to 107.200 gallons per acre. E. M.,
lierlshampsted, February 7, 1906.

February 10, J908.1

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

95

IVi; A R K £2 T S.

CO VENT GARDEN, Fcbyiuuy 7.
Cut Flowers, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...

— fulgens

Azalea nidica., pcf

doz. bunches ...
Azalea mollis, bun.
Bouvardia, per do/..

bi.nches

Cal.aiethiopica.pur

dozen blooms ...

Camellias, doz. ...

Carnations, p c r

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms

Cbrysantheuiunis,
per doz. best
blooms

— small blooms,
per doz. bchs.

Cypnpediums, pec
doz.

Uendrobium War-
dianum and no-
bile, per doz.
blooms

Kuchans grandi-
flora, per doz.
blooms

Kuphorbiajacquini-
aeflora, per doz.
sprays

l-'reesias, per doz.
bunches

Gardenias, per doz.
blooms

Ilelleborus, doz. ...

iiyacinth (Roman),
doz. bunches...

Lilac

I-llium auratum ...

— lancifoli um,
rubrum and
album

— longiflorum ...
I-ily of the Valley,

p. doz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Mignonette, dozen

bunches

Marguerites, white,
p. doz. bunchcb

s. d. s.d.

2 0-40
2 6-30

4 0-50
10-16

6 0-70

2 0-40
10-20

3 0-50
16-30

9 0-12 0

2 0-40

0 0-10 0

2 0-26

2 0-30

2 6-30

4 0-60

2 0-30

20-30
10-16

3 0-60
2 6-40
2 6-30

2 0-30

3 0-60

60-9 0
12 0-15 0

30-4 0

S.d. S.J.

Marguerites, yel-
low, doz. bun. 2 0-30

" Mimosa, "dz. bun. 9 0-12 0

Narcissus, "Paper
White," doz.
bunches ... 16-20

— Soleil d'Or ... 16-20

— Golden Spur,

per doz. buchs. 5 0- G 0
" Ornatus ... 4 0- G 0

— Princeps ... 4 0-00

— Sir Watkin,per

doz. bunches... 8 0-12 0

— Tel emoni us,
plenus, per

doz. bunches... 6 0- U 0
Od on toglossum
crispum,perdoz.
blooms 2 6-30

— grand e, per

dozen blooms 4 0-50
Pancratiums, doz. 3 0-50
Pelargon iums,

show, doz. bun. 4 0-60

— Zonal, double

scarlet 8 0-12 0

Primula, double

white, per doz.

bunches ... 5 0-00
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches ... 10 0-18 0

Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos ... 2 0-40
~ Bridesmaid ... 3 0-00

— Ka i se ri n A.
Victoria ... 4 0-60

— C. Mennet ... 3 0-80

— General Jacque-
minot 4 0-60

— Liberty ... 5 0-90

— Mad. Chatenay 4 0- S 0
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses ... 4 0-00
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches ... 2 0-30

Tuberoses per

dozen blooms 0 4- 0 i)

— on stems, p, bun 10-20
Tulips.p. doz bnch 5 0-80

— special quality 15 0-18 0
Violets, 12 bunches 10-20

— special qual.... 2 0-30

— Parma, French,

large bunchus 2 0-40

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

bunch ...

— — shortsprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri

— tenuissimus ...
Adiantura cunea-

tum, doz. bun. ...
lierberis, per

bunch

Croton leaves, per

bunch

C'ycas leaves, each
l-'ern, English, p.

dozen bunches ...

s.d. s.d.

6 0-12 0

16-20

10-16
0 0-10
0 6-09

6 0-90

2 6-30

0 9-

1 0-

; 0- 3 0

Fern, French, doz.
bunches

Galax leaves, per
doz. bunches ...

Hardy foliage
(various), per
dozen bunches...

Ivy-leaves, bronze

— long trails per
bundle

— short green,
doz. bunches...

Moss, per gross ...
Myrtle, per dozen

bunches

Smilax, per dozen

trails

16-20

3 0-60
16-20

2 0-30

5 0-00

1 G- 4 0

Plants In Pots, &c. : Average Wliolesale Prices.

Ampelopsis Veit-

chii, per dozen ...

Ara lia Sieboldi,

fier dozen
arger

Araucaria excelsa,

per dozen
Aspidistras, green,
per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

Asparagus plumo-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri, doz.

— ten u i ssimus
per dozen

Azaleas, each

Begonia Gloire de
Lorraine, dozen

— Turnford Hall,
Callas, per dozen...
Chrysanthemums,

per dozen
Cinerarias, per doz.
Clematis, per doz.
Crotons, per dozen
Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen ...
Cyclamen, per doz.

— extra quality...
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen

— laxus, per doz
Dracaenas, per doz.
Erica gracilis, doz.

— gracilis alba ...

— caffra

— hyemalis

— melanthera ...
Huonymus,perdoz.

s.d. s.d.
6 0-80

5 0-80
12 0-15 0

30 0-42 0

9 0-12 0
9 0-10 0

9 0-12 0
2 0-36

6 0-18 0
6 0-18 0
6 0-90

8 0-12 0
8 0-10 0
8 0-90
12 0-30 0

12 O-30 0

8 0-15 0
18 0-21 0

4 0-50
4 0-50

9 0-24 0
12 0-ia 0
18 0-24 0

9 0-12 U
12 0-24 0
12 0-18 0

4 0-90

Ferns, in thumbs,
per 100

— in 4S's,perdoz.

— in 32's,perdoz.
Ficus elastica, per

dozen

— repens, per doz.
Genistas, per doz.
Hyacinths(3inpot),

per doz.
Keniia Belmore-
ana, per dozen

— Forsteriana,
per dozen

Latania borbonica,

per dozen
Liliura Harrisii,

per dozen

— lancif olium,
per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen
Marguerites, white,

per dozen
Narcissus, per

dozen

Pelargoniums,
per dozen,

scarlet

Privet, golden, per

dozen

Rhododend rons ,

per doz

Selaginella, dozen
Solanums, dozen...
Spirsea japonica,

per dozen
Tuhps in boxes, per
doz. bulbs ...

7 0-10 0

4 0-10 0
10 0-18 0

9 0-18 0

5 0-80
12 0-15 0

8 0-10 0
12 0-18 0
12 0-21 0

9 0-18 0
24 0-30 0
18 0-24 0
18 0-30 0

6 0-90
5 0-00

3 0-40

5 0-12 0

18 0-30 0

4 0-60

6 0-12 0

6 0-90

5 0-90

Apples :— English,
per bush :

— Calif or n i an
Newtown Pip-
pin, per barrel
per case
Nova Scotians,
per barrel :

— Starks

— Spys

— Fallawaters ...

— Wagners

— Russets
— ■ Baldwins

— • Kibston Pippin

— BlenheimPip'n

— Greening

— King of Tomp-
kin's County...
Canadian, per
barrel :

New York Im-
perials

— Russet

— Greening

— Baldwins
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extraquality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per
doz

Cranberries, case. . .

Custard Apples ...

iJates, Tunis, per

box

— Egyptian, c\\ t.
Grape Fruit, p. box
Grapes, Alicante,

per lb

— Gros Colmar,
per lb

— Ahneria, per
barrel

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

30 0-38 0
8 6-10 0

23 0 —

25 0 —
25 0 26 0

18 0-19 0
23 0-20 0
20 0-22 0

19 0 —
18 6-21 0
22 0 —

250

25 0-28 0

26 0-27 0
20 0-27 0
25 0 —

7 0 —
5 6-60
10 0 —

12 0-14 0
4 0-60

0 8-10

13 0 —
4 0-80

0 4 —
20 0 —
10 6 —

10-20

12-26

16 0-22 0

s.d. s.d.
14 —

9 0-10 0
2 0-40

6 0-80

Lychees, perbct...
Lemons :

— Messina, case
Mangos, doz.
Nectarines (Cape),

per box
Nuts, Cobnuts, per

doz. lb 8 0 —

— Brazils, p. cwt. 44 0 — •

— Spanish, p. bag 38 0 —

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 0 —

— Almonds, p. cwt 34 0 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per oag ... 18 6-19 0

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt 32 0-35 0

— Chest nuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6 —

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case ... 9 0-26 0

— Seville, p. bos
(2j0)

— Navel ...

— Ja tt a ...

— Jamaica

— Blood

— Man dar ines,
per bos (25) ... 0 10- 1 0

— GO 14-17

— Palermo.perlOO 3 6-40

— M andarines

(96) 4 0 —

Peaches (Cape) ... 5 0-80
Pears (Cape), per

case (40) ... 10 0-12 0

— per case (24) ... 5 0-70

— C a li f o rnian,

box 10 6-15 0

— slewing varie-
ties,per J bush. 2 9-30

— Stewing, crate 8 6-90
Pineapples, each... 3 3-40
Plums (Cape), per

box 4 0-60

Strawberries, lb.... 16 0-21 0

Marguerites can be had in quantity. Supplies of Solanuni??
have fallen off somewhat. Uielytra speclabiUs never sells
readily in this market. Erica gracilis and E. melanthera
can still be had in abundance. Coleus in all sizes, from
those in Go-size pots up to large specimens, are plentiful.
The supply of Ferns varies but little ; it is, perhaps, not
quite so large as that of the past week or two. The cold
weather has stopped the sale ot hardy flower roots.
Cut Flowers.

Narcissi of various sortsare extremely plentiful. The most
prominent varieties are Emperor, Sir Watkin, Princeps,
Golden Spur, Obvalaris, Ornatus, and the double Von Zion.
or lelemonius plenus. There are also seen large quantities
of the Polyanthus type, mostly imported flowers. Tulips
are also abundant. A tew of the finest double varieties make
good prices, but "singles" are very cheap. Liiiums are
now making rather better prices, especially L. longiflorum.
There is still a glut of Lily of the Valley. Roses do
not sell well. General Jacqueminot is now marketed
by several growers. Liberty is bright in colour, but
the blooms are rather small. I hnd some florists
prefer General Jacqueminot on account of its fragrance.
Best quality Carnations sell readily, but flowers of second
quality are over plentiful. Among Orchids are noticed free
supplies of Dendrobiums, Cypripediums and Odonto-
glossums. GooJ Cattleyas are not so abundant. Of
Eucharis there is no lack, and Callas are cheaper. The old
double white Primula does not sell as freely as it formerly
did.

In the French Flower Market this morning large supplies
were at hand. While much remains unsold from day to
day, it requires great care when buying imported flowers,
especially in the early morning, for I find on inspection by
daylight much of the cut bloom is past its best. A.H.,
Covcjit Garden, WcUticsiiay, February 7, ifJOG.

6 6-70
17 6-18 0
12 6 —
9 6-11 0
9 0-9 6

Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices.

.\rtichokes. Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground, ibush.
Asparagus, per

bundle : —

— Paris Green ...

— Sprue

Beans, French, p. lb

— Broad, pcrpkt,

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— Channel Island
-- Madeira, bask.

Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, per doz.
Cabbages, per tally

— red, per bushel
Chow Chow, p. doz.
Carrots, French pad

— cwt., un-
washed

— bag, washed ...
Chicory, per lb. ...
Cauliflowers, doz.

— Italian Heads,
per basket

Celery, p. doz. bdls.

Celenac, per doz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles

Kale, Scotch, bush.

Leeks, iz bundles

Lettuces, French,
per doz.

Mint, per dozen ...

M ushrooms(house)
per lb

s.d. s.d.

2 3-20
13-10

5 0-53
0 9 —
13 —
0 6 —

0 9 0 10

2 6-30
2 6-30
2 0-50
10-13
16-20
2 0-30
2 0-26
16-20
2 0-29

1 6 —

2 0-26
0 3 —
16-20

2 a- 2 6

0 0-12 0
2 0-23
5 0-80

1 &- 2 3

10 0-12 0
0 9-10
16-20

12-14
CO —

0 8-0 10

Mushrooms, But-
tons, per lb. ...

Mustard and Cress,
per dozen pun.

Onions, Valencia,

£er case
• ulch, bag ...

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, J bag..

— Spring, dozen
bunches

Parsley, 12 bunches
Parsnips, per bag...
Peas (French flats)
— per packet ...
Potatos (new) : —
Canary, cwt....

— French (new),
per tb

— Channel Island
Kidneys

Radishes, French
breakfast, p.dz.
Rhubarb, per doz.
Salsafy,p. dz.bdls.
Savoys, per tally ...
Spinach, per bushel
Sprouts, h bushel .-
Sea Kale, p. punnet
Spinach (French),

pad

Tomatos : —

— foreign, bundle
of 4 boxes

Turnips, per doz.
bun

— bags

TurnipTops, bush.
Watercress, per

doz. bunches ..

s.d. s.d.

0 10- 1 0

10-16

0 9-70
3 9-40

2 6-30

2 6-30

3 0-40
16-20
2 6 —
5 0-80
0 6-09

12 0-14 0

0 2i-0 3

0 4-05

13-16

0 10- 1 1

4 0 —

5 0- 0 0
20-20
10-13

0 10 —

4 3-49

16-20
19-20
10 —

06

Remarks. — The first Strawberries of the season were seen
on the :;nd inst. ; we may now expect a regular consignment
of these fruits. Over 2,000 cases of Cape Plums arrived on
the 5th inst., but the cold weather prevents their sale. Cape
Peaches are now arriving in better condition than when first
received. A large quantity of fruit from the Cape is due to
arrive on Monday next. Grapes from this colony were re-
ceived last week. These met with a poor demand owing to
their unripened condition. Prices for Mushrooms are in-
clined to be firmer. Trade in foreign Tomatos has im-
proved. Business in vegetables is very dull. Pines are a
short supply, consequently prices have advanced. The fruit
trade generally is somewhat better than is usual at this
season of the vear. E. H. Rides, Covent Garden, Wednesday,
February 7, 1906.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

With colder weather flowering plants are not quite so
plentiful, but supplies are still more than equal to all de-
mands. Hyacinths are very good, but, although prices are
low, it is impossible for the salesmen to clear their stands.
Tulips also are o\ex abundant, and returns are much lower
than at the corresponding period of last year. Azaleas are
not quite so plentiful. Some fine plants of A. mollis are
seen. Lily of the Valley in pots is very good. Cinerarias
are soon spoiled by the cold winds. Cyclamen are numerous
and have sold rather more freely. Good plants of Begonia
Gloire de Lorraine are now becoming scarce. Narcissus
I>lants do not sell readily owing to a superabundance of
cut flowers. Nice examples of Lilium lancifolium rubrunx
are noticed ; there are also some fairly good L. longiflorums,
but the latter are rather tall. Good plants of Spiraeas are
not abundant, but there are plenty of second quality.

SCHEDULES RECEIVED.

Torquay District Gardeners' Association's
Spring Show to be held at the Bath Saloons.
Torquay, on Thursday, March 29, 1906, and
Chrysanthemum Show to be held on Thursday,
November S, 1906.

Kent and Sussex Daffodil and Spring
Flower Society's First Annual Show to be held
at the Great Hall, Tunbridge Wells, on Friday,
April 20, 1906. Secretary, Mr. F. H. Chapman,
loi. High Street, Rye, Sussex.

ENQUIRIES.

Carnation. — Can any reader inform R. F.
where he can purchase plants of Carnation
" Coronation " ?

Excelsior Boiler. — Can any gardener tell me
if this boiler is economical in the consumption of
fuel, easily managed, quick in action, and generally
satisfactory ? II'. ]. S.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Apple Fruit with Spotting through the
Flesh : X. Y. Z. We can offer no suggestion
as to the cause of the spotting beneath the skm.
There is no trace of a fungus present.

Books : Hobbies. Mendel's Principles of Heredity,
translated by W. Bateson. London: J. Clay
& Sons, Cambridge University Press, Ave
Maria Lane.

Camellia Leaves: T. A. G. The black sticky
substance present on your leaves is often found
on these plants. It arises from a sugary secre-
tion formed by aphides. Dirt from the atmo-
sphere and the surroundings collect on this sub-
stance. It can be loosened by a mixture of soft
soap and paraffin in hot water, and may be
removed by sponging. Place a goodly-sized
handful of soap in a bucket and pour on this a
very small quantity of paraffin. Knead the two
substances together until all the paraffin has
been taken up by the soap. This will readily
dissolve in water, and the petroleum does not
rise to the surface to the same degree as when
the two are used separately.

Chemical Manures : E. E. S. The package
labelled No. i is nitrate of soda. The other
appears to be a compound containing nitro-
genous and other manures, but we cannot
undertake to analyse it. Nitrate of soda is a
very soluble manure, and should be applied to
the plants with care when they are growing
actively, especially in the spring. For pot
plants it is advisable to apply it in a soluble
state in the water when affording water to the
roots. The other substance will be best applied
as a top-dressing, using a pinch or two to each
pot.

Choice Hardy Plants suitable for pro- ccing
Flowers for Cutting: Piiili. H.P Roses ■■
Mrs. John Laing, Frau Karl Druschk'i, Margaret

96

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

n'KIiKUARV 10. 1906.

Dickson, Ulrich Brunner, and Louis Van Houtte.
H. T. Roses: Caroline Testout, Lady Batter-
sea, Killamey, Papa Gontier. and Catherine
Mermet. Carnations : Raby Castle, Cecilia, and
Herbert Cutbush. Delphiniums : formosum,
nudicaule, and Cardinal. MontbreUa: Pottsii,
Etoile de Feu, rosea, and elegans. Monarda :
purpurea and didyma. Eremurus robustus, In-
carvilleagrandiflora, Linum flavum, Hydrangea
paniculata. Liliums : candidum, L. croceum,
and L. tigrinum. Chrysanthemums : Marian
and Mrs. Heal. Campanulas : persicifolia and
the varieties alba and flore pleno. Heuchera
sanguinea and H. gracillima. Hollyhocks :
Kniphofia (Tritoma) aloides and K. glauces-
cens. Perennial Phloxes : Brilliant, Coratesse
Jarnac, Archie Forbes, Boule de Feu, and Mrs.
Jenkins. Pyrethrums (Double) : Aphrodite, Cap-
tain Nares, and King Oscar. (Single) : H. M.
Stanley, and Captain Strachan. Felonies (Double) :
Baroness Rothschild, Edward Andre, and
Caroline. Single Pesonies: Beatrice, Duchess
of Portland, Candida, and Milton. Poten-
tillas : La Nuit and Victor Lemoine. English and
Spanish Iris, also I. Ksmpferi and I. Lorteti.
Michaelmas Daisies : Amellus Darkness, A. bes-
sarabicus, Hon. Vicary Gibbs,and Fairy Queen.
Sweet Peas: Dorothy Eckford, Miss Willmott,
Lady Grisel Hamilton, Lord Rosebery, Gladys
Unwin, and Captain of the Blues. Climbing
Roses : Dorothy Perkins and Crimson Rambler.
Employment in Canad.^ : IF. C. A. There
should be plenty of openings in Canada. Apply
to the Government Emigration Office, 31,
Broadway, London, S.W., also to the Canadian
Government's Information Office, Parliament
Street, Westminster. See also the note on
p. 84 referring to E iglish gardeners in America.
Fruit Trees : F. M. The banr}s round the main
stems are known as grease-bands, and are applied
for the purpose of preventing the wingless
females of the winter moth from reaching the
branches. Cart grease made from fat or oils,
and without tar, is recommended as the best and
safest composition to use for banding fruit trees.
Grease banding must be performed early in
October, and the bands must be kept soft and
serviceable. The white coating vou mention
was probably lime, with which the trees are
largely washed in the Kent fruit plantations.
The practice of dusting the trees with slaked
lime is also adopted by many fruit growers.
Probably the best wash to apply to fruit trees is
the caustic-alkali wash, as it destroys all manner
of insect pests, and removes moss and lichens
from the branches. This wash, which can bs
applied at the present time, is made by dissolv-
ing I lb. of commercial crude caustic soda in
water and, separately, i lb. of crude potash
•(pearl ash) in water. When both are dissolved
-mix the two well together, adding f lb. of soft
soap or agricultural treacle. These proportions
are sufficient for ten gallons of the mixture.
Handle the wash carefully owing to its caustic
nature.
Fumigating with Hydrocyanic Acid Gas : H.
H. T. See our correspondent's article on p. 85,
also previous notes in the issues for April 23,
1904, p. 241, and December 9, 1905. p. 416.
Hyacinths: A., Bros. We have often seen this
condition. It is due to irregular growth : the
central spike grows very fast, but the outer scales
do not grow in proportion, and so they constrict
and nip off the flower spike. If you could
detect it in time a surgical operation would
liberate the spike.
LocKiNGE : Correspondent. The glass houses at
Lockinge, we are informed, were built by Mr.
James Gray of Chelsea.
Mealy Bug on Vines : R. M. Our own experi-
ence is that the mixture recommended on p. 48
is perfectly harmless to the vines, provided that it
is not smeared over the young buds, and that
in other respects ordinary care is used in
making the application.
Names of Fruits : G. B. i, Gooseberry Apple;
2, Langton Nonsuch. — S. A. G. i, D'Arcy
Spice; 2, Lord Lennox.
Names of Plants : F. E. G., Haywards Heath.
The flower is not a species of Crinum, but is
now known as Clivia miniata ; its previous name
was Imantophyllum miniatum. It is a green-
house plant, and should not at any time be
iubjected to the hot atmosphere of the stove.
Do not disturb the roots more than once in two
years. The plant often succeeds well for three

or even four years without re-potting. — Rex.
I, (pinnate leaf) Nandinadomestica ; 2, (coloured
do.) Trachelospermum jasminoides ; 3, Teu-
crium fruticans. Why not number your speci-
mens?— A. Y.L. The flowers were dried up
owing to ha%'ing been placed in cottnn-wool
(the worst material in which to pack flowers).

1, Appears to be Epidendrum verrucosum ; 2,
Bletia verecunda. The variation in colour and
form of the lip is not unusual. 3. Cymbidium
sinense. — A. C. P. Gesnera (Dolichodeira)
tubiflora. — /. O. C. i, Codiseum (Croton)
Countess; 2, C. Aigburthiensis ; 3, C. nobile ;
4, C. Earl of Derby; 5, C. Laingi ; 6, C.
variegatum. — Subscriber, i, Blechnum braziliense;

2, Nephrolepis tuberosa ; 3, Ophiopogon
Jaburan; 4. Polygala Dalmaisiana ; 5, Gnidia
pinifolia ; 6, Bsckia frutescens ; 7, Azalea
amaena ; 8, Pernettya sp. (?). — Subscriber, Acacia
armata. — W. H. B. i, Blechnum polypo-
dioides ; 2, Blechnum occidentale ; 3, Pteris
umbrosa ; 4, Nephrolepis pectinata. — C.A.N.
Pittosporum Tobira. — E. M. i, Rosa rugosa ;

2, PotentiUafruticosa. — F.B. Salvia leucantha.
■ — A. II''. T. I, Chlorophytum elatum varie-
gatum; 2, Anthericum Liliastrum variegatum;

3, Stenotaphrum americanum variegatum.

Peach-euds : A. H. E. Growth went on favour-
ably for a time, but then came a check, and the
buds shrivelled and died. Without knowing all
the circumstances we cannot say why. Much
correspondence on this subject took place in our
columns during the early months of 1905 (see
pp. 106, 125, 139, 155, 170 and 234 for that
year), when the consensus of opinion was that
excessive dryness at the roots during autumn
and wintiir, and a too sudden change in the
temperature of the atmosphere in the house
when forcing is commenced, were the principal
causes of bud-dropping.

Peach Shoots : Essex. The shoots are attacked
by a species of Botrytis, a fungus commonly
attacking imperfectly-ripened wood or young
shoots that have been injured by chill. All
diseased shoots should be cut off and burned,
otherwise the disease will spread to others.
After pruning has been done spray the trees
with a rose-red solution of permanganate of
potash or diluted Bordeaux mixture.

Pears for growth as Cordons against a wall

TEN feet in height, FACING THE SoUTH :

G. L. H. For ripening in September: Tri-
omphe de Vienne, Marguerite Marillat or
Fondante d'Automne. For ripening in October
and November : Conference, Louise Bonne of
Jersey, Durondeau, Doyenn6 du Comice. For
ripening in December, January and February;
Josephine de Malines and Le Lectier. There
are several other varieties equally good as
those named above, but we have always had good
results from these sorts. Le Lectier is but little
known, but it is a grand Pear of excellent
quality, and grows satisfactorily.

PoTATOS : T. T. T. We know of no main crop
Potato or any other of recognised merit which
produces pollen in the flowers freely and later
seed-berries. Nothing seems to be more rare
now than to find even a single seed-berry pro-
duced naturally. New varieties are obtained by
extracting, with much difficulty, the tiny de-
posits of pollen found in the pollen-cases in the
centre of the Potato-flowers, of certain varieties,
and conveying it to the pistils of the flowers of
other varieties, but rarely indeed is there foun^
pollen suflicient to produce natural fertilisation.
That this state of things is very different from
what existed some 30 to 40 years ago is certain,
for many varieties at that time produced pollen
and seed berries in abundance. The change is
probably due to the constant in-breeding by
intercrossing that has been practised for the
purpose of raising varieties that yield heavy
crops of tubers, hence the force requisite to
produce pollen has been largely exhausted or
diverted. Varieties that produced pollen freely
never yielded more than moderate crops of
tubers.

Roses : G. L H. Turner's Crimson Rambler,
Lady Gay, Mrs. F. W. Flight, are all excellent
ramblers, and the fourth may be Cheshunt
Hybrid, or climbing La France.

Royal Horticultural Society: Tooting. The
minimum subscription is one guinea each year.
Those who elect to subscribe one guinea only are
called upon to pay in addition an entrance fee of
t ne -;uinea, unless they are professional gardeneis.

Situation in United States of America : A. N.
See note on page 84 from a correspondent
residing in America.

Stephanophvllum " longiflorum " : E. B. The
genus Stephanophyllum is now included under
Paepalanthus. P. longifolius may be tlie plant
you refer to. There is no such plant as Stepha-
nophysum longiflorum. You probably mean S.
longifolium, which is now called Ruellia
amoena. This last-named plant is more likely
to be found in a nurseryman's catalogue than is
P. longifolius, a plant of little garden value and
having a sedge-like habit.

Strawberries failing : Perplexed. The diseased
condition is not due to a fungus nor to the
presence of insects in the soil as you suggest,
but the failure has probably resulted from some
adverse conditions of culture. Too much water
at the roots, or the excessive use of chemical
manures, would be sufficient to cause rotting in
the crown. Did you bring the plants into the
forcing-house when they were in a frosted con-
dition ? The potting compost appears to be
suitable.

The Heating Arrangements in Dalkeith
Gardens: C. B., Guernsey. In reference to our
remark on p. 33 that the late Mr. Malcolm Dunn
had effected a rearrangement of the heating
system of Dalkeith, for the purpose of heating
all the houses from one centre, we have received
additional information, owing to the courtesy of
Mr. Jas. Whytock, the Duke of Buccleuch's
head gardener at Dalkeith Palace. Mr. Whytock
writes as follows: "I had a conversation on
this subject with the Duke of Buccleuch quite
recently, who said that there were previously 21
fires and boilers to heat the glasshouses that are
here at present, excepting the large new vinery,
containing 10 rows of 4-inch pipes, and which
has been built since. These 21 boilers were
thrown out, and we have now instead one stoke-
hole containing three steel Cornish or Trentham
boilers, each 12 feet in length. During six of
the warmest months in the year one of
these boilers easily supplies all the heat
needed, and in winter two boilers supply it
just as easily. We commence to force all
hothouse fruits in December, and therefore
require to maintain high temperatures in the
coldest weather. One man is able to attend to
the fires, and this in itself is a great saving. On
looking through the books containing the details
of garden measurement I find that under the old
system of heating as much as 600 tons of coal
were burnt in some years, and an extra man had
to be kept to wheel coal to and from the numer-
ous stokelioles. At the present time we burn from
300 to 350 tons per year, according to the
severity of the winter. Taking everything into
consideration I believe Dunn's improvement has
resulted in saving the labour of two men, and
besides the economy effected in fuel and labour,
the heating is incomparably more satisfactory,
than it was previously." Such are the circum-
stances that led us to make the remarks to
which you have drawn our attention.

Vines : H. W. A fly, quite different from the
Phylloxera.

White Grubs in Flower-pots: J. L. The in-
sects are allied to the mealy-bugs, and are known
as Ripersia terrestris. They can be destroyed
by small quantities of bisulphide of carbon. To
apply this liquid, make a few holes in the soil
with a 4-inch wire nail, and pour the liquid into
the holes, applying two table-spoonfuls to a
6-inch pot. 'Take care that no light is brought
near the liquid.

Willows injured by Beetles : /. ir. The
insect is the common Phratora vitcllinae. Try
scraping with Paris Green (poison), at the rate
of I ounce to 20 gallons of water. If the foliage
will stand a greater proportion of Paris Green
you will find it more effective ; but you had
better make a few experiments on a small scale
first in order to ascertain this. The solution must
be used with great care, as it is highly poisonous.
Apply it as soon as the insects appear on the
foliage. The larval stage of this insect is also
destructive. They feed in colonies and are
very conspicuous.

Communications Received. — The British Gardeners* As-
sociation.— M. Lemoine Nancy. — Koeer de la Borde
Seurc.— C.T. D.— S. W. P.— J. G.— Sir T. L.— W. B. H.
— E. S. S.-S.W. F.— A. D.G.— VV. K.— W.G. S.— C.T. D.
— W. W.— R. W. D.— W. J. v.— Sutton & Sons— J. C.—
Nat. Potato Soc— J. B.— H. D.— M. R., Queen's County
(not of unusual occurrence)— W. H. — J. G. W. — R. W. R.
— G. M.-A. D.— W. H. W.— Grapes-L. G.-G. B.— F.
G. B.— R. W. R.-W. E S.— A. E. M.— G. B.-F. B.

I

»— I ID

Februaky 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

97

THE

^iirbcncrs'CbionicIe

No. 999. —SATURDAY, February 77, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Book notice-
Gardening in India ...

Buddleia asiatica

Carnation "Coronation "

Carnation, early books
on the

Carnations, American...

Carnations, a society for
winter flowering varie-
ties of

Cattleya, a good

Chinese note book, leaves
from my

Conifers for large groups

Examinations in horti-
culture

Factory Act and florists,
the

Fruit trees on walls

Fungoid diseases and the
need for legislation ...

Galanthus Gottwaldi ...

Hibberd, the late Shir-
ley

Insecticides, dangerous

Kniphofias and their cul-
ture

Mats, garden

Mutual Improvement
Societies, proposed
federation of

Nursery notes —
The Alma Nurseries,
Farnham 102

Orchards, the making of 99

Orphan Fund, Royal
Gardeners' ... 105,110

lOG

107

102
105

107

Orchid notes and glean-
ings—
Dendrobium Wardia-

num

Zygopetalum brachy-
petalum -

Pelargoniums, zonal, the
culture of

Portraits of gardeners ...

Rhododendron -beds,
plants for

Sandringham , the Queen' i
wild garden at 104

Seeds packed for transit 104

Societies^
Cardiff and County

Horticultural ... 112

Horticultural Club ... Ill
Leeds Professional

Gardeners' Benefit... Ill
National Chrysanthe-
mum .ri— m

National Potato ... 104

Royal Horticultural 104, 108
Scottish Horticultural 105
Southampton Royal
Horticultural ... 112

South Lodge, Lower
Heeding 98

Vegetables 105

Week's work, the—
Flower garden, the ... 103
Fruits under glass ... 103
Hardy fruit garden ... 103
Kitchen garden, the ... 103
Orchid houses, the ... 102
Plants under glass ... 102

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Buddleia asiatica 103

Her Majesty's Wild Garden at Sandringham (Supple-
mentary Illustration).

Kniphotia Northia^ 100

Kniphofia pauciflora 101

Narcissus, a bed of, at South Lodge 99

South Lodge, Horsham, view of the residence and
grounds 98

THE CARNATION IN FRENCH
LITERATURE.

To Mr. Douglas, of Great Bookham, I am
indebted for a perusal of two early
French books on the Carnation, the one
Lc Jnrdinagc des Qiilltts, a Paris,
MDCXLVII, the other, Noiiveau Traite des
(Eillds, la f aeon la plus utile and facile de les bien
cultiver, leur noms, leur couleurs, and leur beaute.
Avec la Lisle des plus nouveaux. Par L.C.B.M.,
d Paris, MDCLXXVI. Both are interesting,
the latter especially so, because every page
bears evidence of its having been written by
someone intimately acquainted with the Car-
nation. We have nothing like either in Eng.
land, the best early treatise on the Carnation
being that of John Parkinson embodied in his
Paradisus, but nothing like so full.

Le Jardinage des Qiillets was written by L. B.,
whose address to the reader is a verselet telling
how the Carnation came to wear the sceptre
in the Kingdom of Flowers. L. B. was per-
haps less an authority on the Carnation than
an elegant writer who was as happy in filling
pages of his book with philosophical remarks
as in discoursing on cultural matters. Some 70
names of Carnations are given, and it is inter-

esting that among these are some also named
by Parkinson, whose " Gray Hulo" appears as
" le Hulot gris." " Le sauvage " may be
accepted as identical also with the " Sauadge "
of our John. Instead of the public flower-shows
there seem to have been private exhibitions,
for the writer remarks on the pleasure there
was in rearing some beautiful and rare sort ;
over and above the profit it brought to its
master, and to see it inspected by gardeners who
came to examine all its parts, to observe its
petals, to distinguish its colours, and, according
to the spirit by which they were animated, to
show up its good qualities or discover its faults.

Carnations were cultivated solely in pots,
and when in flower the blooms were supported
by round pieces of cardboard, white or black
according to the colour of the flower. Bloom
was produced nearly the whole year round ;
during winter, from early layers which had
spindled in autumn and from old plants which
pushed new growth late in the year, these
flowers being used in the composition of winter
bouquets. The little structures in which the
plants were kept during winter were freely
ventilated, and no artificial heat was apphed
unless in very cold weather, when a fire of
charcoal was lighted.

In a chapter on seedling-raising it is advised
to leave one or two pods only on each plant ;
and seedlings, like the others, were cultivated
in pots. Propagation was effected by various
methods, in addition to that of sowing seeds ;
a method of splitting up the end of the stem
of cuttings into four strips being recommended
as infallible. Layering by splitting the stem
seems to have been a usual practice, but the
common method of making layers is also
described. The book concludes with " Chris-
tian Reflections on Flower Growing."

The writer of the Nouveau Traite goes about
his business in a more workman-like manner, in
the preface remarking that several people raised
objections to him for divulging his secrets and
making his experience public, narrow views
which he combats with vigour. Chapter I.
treats of layering, the best time for doing this
work being from July 20 to the month of
August, the method of layering being detailed
clearly and with fulness. The soil used for
layers was composed of two parts thoroughly
decayed horse dung, and one part black or
marsh earth. Small pots or funnels of tin are
recommended to be used for the layers.
Those failing to emit roots were put on a
hot bed and covered with bell glasses, by
which means splendid plants were produced.
Otherwise cuttings were not relied upon.
Chapter II. is about pots, which it would
appear reached the gardener in an unfinished
condition, as the remarks on making holes for
drainage show. Soils are the theme of
Chapter III., those too heavy, too light, too
moist and too dry being condemned. For
" Incarnats " a soil of one-half horse dung
thoroughly decayed and old, the other half
to be composed of black soil, material from
elevated tufts on marshes, and one-sixth
yellow loam is noted. For other sections
and Picotees two-thirds black soil and one-
third horse dung with one-sixth yellow loam.
Chapter IV. tells how the Carnation is to be
potted. The peg having been removed from
the layer the latter has the connecting piece
of stem severed quite close to its junction
with the layer, so that roots may push from
it as well as from the tongue. The bottom
of the pot was next fitted with horse dung
for drainage. The compost was then added
till it reached nearly the rim of the pot, and
decayed dung level to the brim, and one layer

set in the material. Most growers, it is re-
marked, planted three or four in each pot,
but the author preferred to put one only, and
this was planted directly into the flowering
pot. Up till the beginning of December the
plants were kept in the open air, but protected
from inclement weather. Then they were
transferred to the greenhouse, from which
frost was kept by means of paper and mats
in preference to fires. In many gardens
the usual method of protection consisted in
placing the plants in cellars. During winter
water was only applied when the plants
flagged, and sometimes saucers were used as
a means of conveying water to the roots,
each plant being placed in a saucer into which
just a little water was introduced when the
soil required moistening. In Passion week
the plants were returned to ths open, and
numerous recommendations are given as tO
the aspects to be chosen during tne different
stages of the plant life.

Chapter IX. is devoted to water and its
application, the writer disapproving of the
practice of supplying manure water lavishly,
his own experience being that cow-manure
was best, and three or four applications
sufficient during summer. Chapter XV. is
all about seed-sa\'ing, sowing, &c. Plants
which naturally were free seed bearers
were chosen as mothers. Some sowed the
seeds in autumn, others in spring, a time
which he himself preferred, and favoured the
Holy Week," because of the full moon." Rea,
or was it Gilbert, used almost exactly the same
words when writing of the same subject.

In Chapter XXI II. the qualities of a good
Carnation are thus given : The flowers ought to
be of large size, furnished with numerous petals,
round, well-striped and without spots. They
were to be large, because small blooms were
not esteemed unless very fine indeed ; well
furnished with petals, because a flat flower
had not thfe beauty of the dome-shaped,
that is to say, one in which a kind of
dome forms in the centre of the flower.
(This type of flower is portrayed in Parkinson's
Paradisus.) A circular outline is the form
required in a perfectly striped Carnation,
for the Carnation without stripe (or bar) is
little to be esteemed, the stripe forming its
chief beauty when it is large, and when it ex-
tends from the base to the edge of the petal.
Lastly, the flower was to be spotless, because
a spotted Carnation lacks purity, is confused ;
and being confused, should be thrown away.
A capital catalogue raisonne of the best sorts
then in cultivation is given. It is divided into
sections, e.g., Violets in which purples, brown
(or black-brown) were placed) ; reds of all
shades ; Incarnats, pale, bright, and flame-
coloured ; Roses, flesh, pure whites, and
"pignetez," the latter being all spotted. With
the exception of these the others were all
flakes with white grounds. There are also
tricolours, in which " a bar of purple followed
one of pale rose on a white ground." .Another
variety had a " milk " ground cut with large
brown, nearly black bars and rose colour. A
"bizarre" is mentioned composed of seven
colours. In addition to the description of the
flower of each variety, its habit, the number
of blooms to be left on its plants, their healthi-
ness, or liability to disease, and the place it
was raised, are all given.

This very keen florist also thought it was
proper to dress blooms to the best advantage,
by which they were made larger and more
shapely, and disposes of the objections that it
would appear were even then brought against
the practice as being opposed to nature. R.P.B.

98

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1906.

SOUTH LODGE, LOWER

BEEDING.

OuE illustration at Fig. 40 represents a view
of South Lodge, the residence of F. D. God-
man, Esq., F.K.S. It is situated about four and
a half miles from the old town of Horsham, on
the Brighton road. The owner is a very en-
thusiastic plant lover, liis especial favourites
being Orchids and Carnations. During the
past few years, many alterations and additions
have been made in the gardens. A batch of
Cyclamen, showing good cultivation, is accom-
modated in one of the houses ; while Primulas,
among which the Duchess forms a conspicuous
feature, are seen in excellent condition. Carna-
tions are extensively cultivated, a succession of
these beautiful winter flowering plants being
maintained. Most of the better varieties of

C. L. Clinkaberryanum, C. insigne Saundersii,
C. aureum Hyeanum, C. Acteus, C. Milo, etc.
The Cattleya house contains some fine plants
of C. Bowringiana, some of which have been in
these gardens for upwards of 20 years. Other
plants noticed were Brasso-Cattleya Mossiae-
Digbyana, B.-C. gigas-Digbyana, C. Mrs. Pitt,
C. Iris, L. C. Fascinator, L. C. luminosa,
L. C. Canhamiana, L. C. alba, L. C. Charles-
worthii, L. C. Hypatia, L. C. Gottiana, etc.,
all of which are doing well. In another house
a batch of Lycaste Skinneri and its varieties
were in flower, the plants exhibiting extra-
ordinary vigour, the white variety being especially
noteworthy. A system of staging is adopted in
the Odontoglossum house whereby each plant
is surrounded with fresh air. Over a bottom
staging of shingle is placed another stage made
of iron rods running from end to end of the

time, and when I saw them in flower they were
very handsome. The plants, I should think,
must be among the finest in the country. Large
Rose beds adorn the lawn ; also beds of Nar-
cissus in variety, some of which contain several
thousand bulbs (see Fig. 41). Lilies and several
species of Rhododendrons also find a home in
this quarter. I noticed R. Falconed, R. cinna-
barinum, R. Thomsoni, R. Royli, R. campylo-
carpum, etc. A little shelter is obtained from
some large Beech-trees above them, and all
appear healthy. The kitchen garden was very
prim. In small ornamental lakes are aquatic
plants, with Azalea Mollis and other useful
flowering plants arranged on the slopes and
banks. A cool greenhouse contains specimens
of half hardy Rhododendrons, R. argenteum
grande, R. Aucklandii x Fortunei being the
more conspicuous. Flowers from these plants

Fig. 40. — SOUTH lodge, hohsh.\m, the kesidenxe of f. d. godm.vn, f.r.s.

these flowers are grown, including Enchantress
and Yuletide, which are favourites at South
Lodge. In still other houses plants of Souvenir
de la Malmaison Carnations are looking in
perfect health, while a number of plants of
Begonia Gloire de Lorraine almost fill another
glasshouse. Salvias brighten the conservatory
with their brilliant flowers, the plants being
exceedingly well grown. Other houses are filled
with stove and greenhouse plants, such as are
useful for decorative purposes and for furnish-
ing cut flowers. At the time of my visit a good
crop of black Alicante Grapes was still hang-
ing in one of the vineries. Muscats, Peaches,
Melons, etc., are also cultivated. In the
Orchid houses Cypripediums furnish an abund-
ance of flowers, many choice varieties being
included in the collection. Example : C.
Leeanum giganteum, C. L. magnificum, C. L.
virginaie, C. L. Keeling's var., C. L. aureum.

house. On these rods are placed obliquely
small strips of teak wood. The flower pots are
stood upon two of these strips of wood, and as a
result the air circulates freely among the plants.
Amongst the choice plants are Odontoglossum
Ruckerianum, O. triumphans, O. Harryanum x
crispum, O. excellens, O. Halli, O. Edwardsii,
O. grande, O. crispum aureum, and O. Ander-
sonianum. The Calanthes have made some
fine pseudo-bulbs, and are throwing up very
strong flowering spikes. Large and well-grown
plants of Cineraria were in frames, several of
which also contained Violets La France and
Princess of Wales. I also noticed Hippeastruo
(Amaryllis) bulbs of a large size.

The pleasure ground contains a good border

of herbaceous plants, at the end of which is a

• well-furnished rock and an Alpine garden.

Tubs containing Agapanthus and Hydrangea are

arranged around the mansion in the summer

have been exhibited at the meetings of the
Royal Horticultural Society. Some grand views
are obtained from the terrace in front of th«
mansion, and above the tops of a wood can bo
seen the South Downs and the Devil's Dyke,
near Brighton, which is 16 miles distant. Mr.
Moody, the head gardener, has been entrusted
with the care of these gardens for upwards of
28 years, during which time he has formed one
of the most interesting gardens in Sussex. W.
A. Coot.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

DENDROBIUM WARDIANUM.
This is still one of the handsomest of Den.
drobiums, its profusion of large white flowers
tipped with purplish-rose and having the disc
of the lip dark yellow with two maroon blotches
rendering it a charming flower and unlike any

Ikbruaey 17, IGOS.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

09

'itlier hybrid or species. The main Orchid
house in the Right Hon. Lord Rothschild's
gardens at Tring Park has the end of the cen-
tral stage filled with a fine display of splendidly
thrown plants, whose 3 to 4 feet long pseudo-
bnlbs are plentifully set with fine flowers vary-
ing in tint but always beautiful. The plants are
v^rown and the buds produced in the warm
moist atmosphere, where some ornamental
stove plants are also cu'tivated. As the flowers
expand they are removed to the drier conditions
nf the Cattleya house, where they are at the
present time. When the flowers have passed
the plants will be returned to the growing house
until the new growths are fully made up, when
they will be rested in a cool, well-ventilated
atmosphere. Under such treatment D. Wardi-
anum does not deteriorate, but if the growing
and resting seasons be not observed it is short-

veining. It is an elegant and distinct species
not often met with in gardens, although it was
collected by Libon, on the peak of Itabira,
Minas Geraes, Brazil, in 1847, and has since
been imported occasionally. It is grown in the
intermediate house without much difficulty.

THE MAKING OF ORCHARDS.— II.

(Continued from page 37.)
In the last article the preparation of the
ground for the contemplated orchard was dealt
with, and reference was made to some of the
most common faults committed in the matter of
planting the trees. The old-fashioned method
of "dumping" the tree into a square-cut hole
has been referred to, and one or two per-
sonal instances of obseri'ation in this direction

pliable nature, the hole-digging plan, provided
that the holes are dug large enough, so that the
roots can be stretched out naturally, is not so
absolutely fatal to success as when one has heavy
land with a holding subsoil to deal with ; but
it stands to reason that if you go right through
the soil, or nearly through it, planting your trees
actually on or just above the subsoil, the chance
of a healthy growth is very remote, and no wood
means no fruit. For a time trees thus planted
may succeed moderately well, for they will feed
to some extent on the good soil thrown back
into the hole upon the roots, but very soon the
evil effects of the sour soil below will become
evident, canker and decay will set in, and the
trees will gradually, or perhaps quickly, perish.

Surface Planting.
The alternative to this antiqu-ited and entirely

Fli;. 41. — "emperor" narcissus flowering on the lawn at south lodge. (See page 98.)

lived. A number of plants ot Calanthe
Keguieri, a fine Laelio-Cattleya X , between L.
pur|iurata and C. Trianaei Reine des Beiges, the
pretty Ljelia rubescens (acuminate), seme
livbrid Lffilias, Lselia superbiens, and other
showy Orchids were in flower in the same
house.

ZYGOPETALUM BRACHYPETALUM.

This pretty and uncommon evergreen species
has flowered with Mrs. R. A. Mitchell, Mayford
House, Woking (gr. Mr. Gittens). The flower
sent is nearly as large as that of Z. Mackaii. The
sepals and petals are of purple-brown colour,
with a slight greenish base and a few irregular,
thin, transverse green lines. The lip, which is
longer and narrower than in Z. Mackaii, is
nearly covered with a broad irregular veining
of a light blue colour, the white ground colour
showing through at the margin and between the

were cited to show the impossibility of obtain-
ing satisfactory results under such rough-and-
ready systems of planting. It would be quite
profitless to go into further details concerning
a practice which has nothing to recommend it
even on the score of cheapness, for the hole-
digging plan is an expensive one ; but it will
be interesting to give an example, by way of
contrast, to show what the trees, had they been
properly planted on prepared soil, might have
done. It so happened that a couple of .'Vpple
trees were left over after the orchard had been
set out, and these two single specimens, of much
the same quality as the rest, were put in in the
corner of the farm garden in a good piece of
prepared soil. These two trees are now some
15 feet in height, and bear fair crops, while
the others, planted in holes in the grass, are,
as already stated, dead or dying.

In a good deep soil, well drained and of a

wrong method of planting is to be found in the
system known as " surface-planting," which, as
its name implies, consists of putting in the trees
so that they actually stand on the surface of
the original soil, as far as possible, that is,
from the subsoil below. It must not be sup-
posed, however, that planting fiat upon the
ground is recommended, for to do so would
amount to asking the tree to spread its roots in
a directly lateral position. This, it need hardly
be explained, is not a natural proceeding, and
the difficulty is overcome by the simple process
of taking the surface soil, at some distance from
the proposed position of the tree, and forming
a gently sloping mound, at whose rounded apex
the tree is set in position. In order to make
the process more simple it is better to set out
one's ground throughout in a businesslike man.
ner before planting begins, and a sufficient num-
ber of stakes, to which the trees will afterwards

100

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1906.

be 'secured, should be at hand for the purpose.
When these have been firmly driven in the
planting can proceed, and the stakes will not
be 'disturbed in the planting process, since no
digging is necessary in their vicinity. The
stakes fixed, the mounds already mentioned will
be thrown up around them to a depth of six or
eight inches at the centre, care being taken that
the soiVjthus used is brought from a spot as far
away from the tree's actual position as possible.
How far this soil for the mounds will have to be
transported depends on the distance between
each row of stakes ; but in any case it will come
frotn a spot about half-way between each row.
It now remains only to place the tree in posi-
tion, tie it loosely to the stake, and lay out its
roots- naturally and evenly around in their
original positions, remembering at the same time
to cut away with a sharp knife all broken or
bruised portions of root up to a sound point.
Some more soil is then thrown lightly over the
loots, so that all are covered to a depth of
three or four inches, and the tree is for the pre-
sent left to settie. Later on it will need a little
more attention.

Tiie advantages of this method of planting
will be apparent to anyone who cares to consider
the question for a moment. Firstly, because the
stakes are set in position first of all, and abso-
lutely straight rows of trees are thereby secured.
Under this system no damage is possible to the
branches, but when stakes are put in after plant-
ing the bark must inevitably be injured, fruiting
spurs knoclied off, and twigs broken. Secondly,
one gets the full advantage of the depth of the
original soil in addition to the extra depth of
soil thrown up around the tree, both under and
above its roots. Thirdly, the main roots begin
their fresh growth in a sloping, natural, and un-
cramped position, with a good depth of ;nellow
soil below, and no sour material anywhere within
reach for many years to come. Fourthly, the
formation of the mound provides a natural sys-
tem of surface drainage. And fifthly, the smaller
roots of the tree are encouraged to keep near the
surface, and so form plenty of fibre (which cor-
responds to the fruit spurs above), instead of
wandering downwards in the forlorn hope of
finding something to feed upon.

The planter, when following this method of
orchard-making, must, of course, modify his pro-
cedure to some extent, according to the depth
of the soil he is dealing with, but even this
plan of surface planting is not to be recom-
mended on a very shallow soil, which is not
suitable for fruit trees unless one is prepared to
pay pretty heavily for the manuring which will
be necessary in the future. It is far better to
pay more rent in the first instance for a better
and deeper soil than to take a piece of poor and
shallow land, which will cost much to get into
good order before the trees are planted, and will
need much " mending " from time to time after-
wards. The directions given above refer to an
average soil, say, of a foot in depth, and if
deeper, so much the better. On such a soil the
trees will have a good 18 inches to start
upon, in addition to the 3 or 4 inches
above the roots. Ground which is in fair heart
and has been well cultivated will need no manur-
ing in the first instance, and, indeed, even if the
soil is poor, any manure used should be
thoroughly rotten, and none of it should come in
contact with the roots. The application of
manure before planting is an expensive method,
because it is difficult to put it in so that the tree
will get the full benefit of it, and it is not so
easy to regulate the quantity as when it is
applied after planting from the top of the
ground. Besides this, top dressings serve a
threefold purpose : they feed the trees from
above, thus keeping tlie roots near the surface,
where sun, light, and air can work their good

effect ; they protect the roots of the tree from
cold winds and frost in winter ; and keep off
the fierce and drying rays of the sun in sum-
mer. Trees planted in the autumn should be
dressed with manure, which for top application
need not be very rotten, so soon as they are
" settled," that is to say, within about a month
or so after planting. It may, however, be ad-
visable, if severe frost is feared, to cover up
around the stem before this ; but as newly-
planted trees require a little attention around
their roots within the first few weeks after being
put in, it is as well, if possible, to defer manur-
ing until this extra attention has been given,
and the tree is left to itself. The work neces-
sary simply amounts to patting the soil gently
over the roots with the back of a spade, so as
to make all firm, and tying the stem firmly to
the stake, not forgetting to bind a wisp of straw
around the tree to prevent chafing. A fortnight
or so should elapse between the time of plant-
ing and these last finishing touches, so th;.t the

weeds. Trees planted in the winier or early
spring may be manured in the same manner, but
in this case it will be as well to do so very
lightly, and to add further dressings annually
in the autumn. The chief advantage of this pro-
cedure is that the heavy rains of autumn will
send all the goodness of the manure into the
soil, whereas if the dressing is applied in the
spring it may be there for months before rain
comes, much of its virtue being exhausted by
cold March winds and summer sun. East Sussex.
(To be concluded.)

KNIPHOFIAS AND THEIR
CULTURE.

(Continued from page S3.)
K. foliosa. — An Abyssinian plant of great
vigour, but one requires to be careful as to the
type of plant acquired, for most K. foliosa
jrown in this eouRtry are poorly-eolcured forms-
probably rais«d from plants jrown with other

Fig. 42. — KNIPHOFIA NORTHIiE, MUCH REDUCED.

tree may have time to settle naturally to some
extent, and it should be particularly observed
that when all is finished the stem of the tree is
just so far underground as it was when lifted
from the nursery. The mark round the stem
will show this. The manure is now shaken
lightly around the stem, and spread out over
the roots to a distance of about 2 feet all
round. This will cover all the roots in the first
instance, but subsequent dressings will have to
extend as the roots go farther afield. By the
time that the winter is over the nourishment in
the manure will have been washed down to the
roots by the rain, and the remaining litter will
be lightly forked in at the end of summer, ready
for a fresh dressing to be applied before the frost
sets in in the autumn. These light annual
dressings are better than heavy applications of
manure once in two or three seasons, for they
nourish the trees more gradually, besides pro-
tecting the roots more effectively, and it will be
found more easy, when only a little manure is
applied at a time, to keep down the growth of

species, fgr they shew, in addition to marked
worthlessness, traces of hybridity vrith K. caul-
escens and K. prsecox. The best forms of K.
foliosa are noble plants, handsome both in'
flower and foliage, whilst the richness of the
flower heads is not surpassed by any other early
flowering species. It has giant leaves — broad
and sturdy — arranged in handsome Bromelia-
like tufts, and produces stout scapes of reddish
scarlet flowers, which pass to lemon yellow as-
they age. The spikes are cylindrical and about
3 feet in height, and last long in good condition.
It has been called K. Quartiniana, and the plant
now known as Quartiniana in gardens is the
best form of K. foliosa known to me. This
form is of bold habit and a splendid plant for
large rockeries and for borders. The plants are
quite hardy, and are easy to cultivate.

K. Lcichtlinii. — Another Abyssinian species of
doubtful hardihood everywhere, but which can
be grown very successfully if the roots are lifted
in cold districts for storing during the winter.
It is a moderately vigorous and, in this climate,
deciduous plant, whose spikes are cylindrical

February 17, 1S06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

■101

and very long, commencing to flower from near
the top or the middle of the inflorescence ; the
anthers and styles are much exserted. The root-
stock has few fleshy roots, and a limited number
of serai-prostrate, twisted pale-green leaves. The
spikes are produced in late summer, and are 3
feet in height, bearing a brush-like inflorescence
coloured dull vermilion externally, yellow intern-
ally, each flower-spike developing a yellowish
tint as it ages by reason of the multitude of
apricot-tinted stamens that survive the peri-
anths. Aurca, an orange-yellow variety with
scarlet stamens, and dislachya — a twin-spiked
variety, whose flowers are of orange scarlet
colour, and whose stamens are scarlet, are
splendid plants for the choice flower border m
warm districts. Distachya is the taller and, I
think, the most effective plant of the three.

K. Northis (see Fig. 42). — A stately plant of
noble proportions, forming a stout stem 3-4 feet
in height, the broad, glaucous leaves forming a
huge Agave-like rosette which measures a yard
across. The flower scapes are as thick as a
man's wrist, and the inflorescence is coloured
■dark brick red with yellow base. The plant is
really a glorified K. caulescens, much larger in
all its parts and with darker flowers. A grandly
effective species for warm and sheltered corners
where its huge leafy rosettes may reach their
finest development. It is more hardy than
people imagine, and many grand plants thriving
in the open without protection are known to
me, which produce spikes 6 feet in height regu-
larly every year. It is a rare plant of slow
.growth, yielding but few offsets unless injured.
Propagation should be effected by means of
seeds. Most K. Northi^ I have met are not quite
true to type, showing evidence of hybridity with
common species.

K. fanciflora (see Fig. 43). — A low-growing,
sedge-like plant whose flower spikes are poor
individually, but which are effective when
massed. It is suitable only for cultivation on
xockeries and the forefront of herbaceous bor-
ders. The spilies are arching, 2 feet in height
as a maximum, and they bear pendant yel-
lowish, short-tubed flowers from May onwards.
Crossed with breviflora and others it has given
me a race of nodding Kniphofias that resemble
giant Lachenalias of singularly beautiful colour-
ing, and which flov,-er in two relays annually,
•once in mid-summer and again in September.

K. recurvata (prsecox). — A sturdy species Witli
handsome, erect-growing, arching leaves and
flowers that resemble a very poor K. aloides in
early summer. It has the misfortune to flower
too early in the season, and the spikes are fre-
quently damaged by late frosts in a nascent
state.

K. Hoopi-ri. — A very hardy and free-growing
plant, forming handsome sheaves of broad, dark
green foliage that is an ornament all the summer
long in a sheltered position. The spikes are
handsome, but are produced from September
■throughout winter, hence many of the best are
spoiled by frosts. This is a grand plant for
cultivation in warm counties, but on the Ea'St
Coast, in the Midlands, and the colder parts of
Scotland it rarely reaches its best condition, al-
though flowers are produced in moderate quan-
tities in mild winters. It grows about 3 feet
in height, but is capable of much finer growth
•in warm districts. The scapes ma^- be likened
rto those of a crimson K. foliosa.
'. K. rufa. — A delightful, new species that
flowei'j all the summer long. It has the slight
tufted growth of K. Nelsoni, and bears quanti.
ties of slender scapes supporting a refined in-
florescence of long-tubed, elegant flowers
coloured canary yellow in the lower series and
coral red at the top of the spike. There are
not many flowers on each scape, but the num-
ber of scapes and their elegant habit render
this the most charming of Kniphofias for plant,
ing in borders. It appears incapable of pro-
ducing seeds, and the pollen is often sterile. It
IS very hardy, and thrives in any soil.

A.'. TucTtii. — Another plant of the K. caules-
cent type whose glaucous, serrulate leaves are
arranged in handsome Aloe-like roseties, and
whose flowers are produced in June and July.
The inflorescence resembles that of K. caules-
cens, but is less hoary in appearance, the col-
ouring being of brick red, with vermilion tips
and Primrose yellow at the base. There are
several beautiful colour forms in cultivation,
and the plant appears to be capable of further
improvement by selection of the best seedlings
for perpetuation.

K. Tysoni is a kindred plant to the last-
named species, but it shows greater refinement
in the closely-packed inflorescence coloured a
fairly bright shade of scarlet with yellow basal

Fig. 43.— KNIPMOFIA PACaFLORA,
FLOWERS YELLOW.

colouring. The foliage is arranged in splendid
rosettes of a dark bluish green, with glaucous
tips, and the spikes, which appear in June, are
6 feet in height. G. B. Mallett.
(To be continued.)

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

(Continued from page CO.)
"TATIEN-LU AND THE QUEST OF

MECONOPSIS INTEGRIFOLIA.^'
The town of Tatien-lu is situated in long.
102° 18' E., lat. 30^ 3'm., at an altitude of about
8,300 feet. By the most direct route it is 12
days' journey from the city ot Kiating, and a
similar distance from Cheng-Tu, the provincial
capital, the routes converging at Yachou-Fu.

The first Britisher to visit the town of Tatien-
lu was the late Mr. T. T. Cooper in 1868. Since
that time it has been visited by many travellers
— probably more than any other town in

Western China. Much has been written, yet
much remains to be told. The late Captain
Gill, who visited the place in 1877, has given us
a very good description of the town and its
people.* More recently an American traveller,
Mr. W. W. Rockhill,t and an English natu-
ralist, Mr. A. E. Pratt, t have considerably in-
creased our knowledge. The present town is
built in the narrowest of valleys at the head
of a gorge, down which the River Lu tumbles,
falling some 4,000 feet ere it joins the Kivet
Tung, 20 miles distant. This torrent bisects the
town, being crossed by means of three wooden
bridges, and is joined immediately below the
North Gate by another river, which flows from
the north. The town is hemmed in on all sides
by steep, treeless mountains, whose grassy
slopes and bare cliffs lead up to peaks which
culminate in perpetual snow. On the whole,
the situation is about the last in the world
in which one would exi>ect to find a thriving
town.

Formerly the town occupied a site a'oout
half a mile above its present one, but about
a hundred years ago this was totally de-
stroyed by a landslip, caused by a moving
glacier. The old town was surrounded by a
wall, fragments of which remain, and was evi-
dently much larger than the present town.
Tatien-lu is peculiar in that the only wall it
possesses runs across the town near the South
Gate, and in that many hundreds of blocks of
stone with which the streets are paved are of
the purest marble.

Tatien-lu is a small and filthily dirty place ;
it boasts a large mixed population of Chinese
and Tibetans. Being on the highway from
Pekin to Lhassa, oflicials are constantly passing
and re-passing. This makes it a highly im-
portant place, both politically and commercially.
Although Batang, 18 days' journey to the west,
is the actual frontier town, Tatien-lu is really
the gate of Tibet. The country between Tatien.
lu and Batang is physically purely Tibetan.
Politically, it is of a nondescript character, and
i^ ruled by native chieftains. At Tatien-lu it-
self, there dwells a Tibetan chief of no mean
standing. He is styled King of Djiala, and pos-
sesses much land and immense herds of yak.
He has power of life and death within his own
territory. His palace is spacious, and about
G miles to the south-west of the city he has a
country residence, fitted with stone baths, into
which water is led from thermal springs.

This local king and the head Chinese official,
styled Kiung Liang Fu, are supposed to be col-
leagues, but, in reality, the King is very much
the subordinate. In my dealings with both, I
found them very willing to assist, but suspicious
and jealous one of the other.

Commercially, Tatien-lu is a most important
entrepot. It and Sungpan, in the north-west,
have a monopoly of the trade between this part
of China and Tibet. The Tibetans bring in
wool, musk, hides, gold, and medicines, and
exchange them for coarse brick-tea, tobacco, and
trinkets, such as beads of inferior turquoise,
coral, etc. Indian and Chinese rupees are the
current coin, but much of the trade is done by
barter.

The Roman Catholic fathers have been work-
ing in this neighbourhood for very many years.
Since their expulsion from Tibet proper, about
1867, their Bishop (Vicaire Apostolique de
Lhassa) has resided at Tatien-lu. In 1896, the
so-called Tibetan band of the China Inland Mis-
sion, despairing of being able to enter Tibet
from the Indian side, opened a station here.
So far, they have not been able to enter Tibet
any more from this side than they could from
the Indian.

With these introductory remarks on this in-
teresting border town, we will now turn our
attention to things botanical. E. H. Wilson.
(To be continued.)

* See River of Golden Sand. .

■t See Land of the Lamas.

I Thro' China to Snoii's 0/ Tibet.

102

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febhuary 17, 1906.

NURSERY NOTES.

THE ALMA NURSERIES, FARNHAM.
These nurseries, belonging to Mr. S. Bide, are
mainly devoted to the cultivation of crops for
Vfholesale supply. For instance, here can be seen
50 acres of Seakale, and such crowns, too, that
one cannot imagine anything but success for those
who make use of them. The natural soil here is
specially well suited for the growth of this veget-
able, and with Mr. Side's system of deep digging
and liberal manuring the growth is all that could
be desired. Several span-roofed houses are being
utilised for the forcing of surplus Kale under the
most favourable conditions. Fruit trees are grown
in large numbers. Worcester Pcarmain, Mr.
Gladstone and Cox's Orange Pippni Apples are
favourites. A high opinion is being formed of
Norfolk Beauty, which promises to be one of the
most popular of kitchen apples. Mr. Bide has
also quantities of shrubs and trees, many acres
being occupied with Spruce Firs, ranging from
3 feet to 6 feet in height. There are Laurels in
large numbers and breadths of Larch suitable
for immediate planting. An additional nursery
of some 20 acres of land a few miles away has
recently been acquired to act as a feeder for the
home nursery.

The range of glass is extensive. In addition
to the cut-flower trade done here, many thousands
of Roses in pots are grafted. Grafting com-
mences in November, and continues until March.
The batches of such varieties as Caroline Testout.
Mrs. W. J. Grant, Dorothy Perkins. Kaiserin
Augusta Victoria, and Lady Gay, appeared to
be remarkably good. Great care is taken to
keep them true to name and in the best of
health.

Many thousands of Chrysanthemums are grown
to meet the demand for cut flowers. Quite one of
the best of late, yellow-flowered sorts here is Mrs.
J. S, Fogg, of deep yellow with a tinge of bronze
in it and a flower possessing much substance. As
an extra late variety no better white flower than
L. Canning has yet been found. Bulbs are a
feature — 150.000 Narcissus being flowered an-
nually. Emperor, Horsefieldii, Empress, Golden
Spur, H. Irving, and Princeps are grown in quan-
tity. A new variety of Ornatus. named Ornatus
Grandiflorus prajcox. was most promising. It is
fully three weeks earlier than the type — and has
more orange colour in the cup. It was intro-
duced, I believe, by Mr. Baylor Hartland. N.
Cervantes, with but little forcing, is also a desir-
able variety. House after house is filled with
Palms. Begonias, Richardias, Ferns, &c., all in
good health. Mr. Bide has the advantage of
having three sons and a brother, all of whom
take a deep interest in the busmess. Of Potatos
many absolutely new varieties are on trial. Mr.
Bide is a large Hop grower, as well as a farmer,
and keeps 70 dairy cows of a choice description.
E. Molyneiix.

not imperative, as cuttings can generally be pro-
cured from shoots of ordinary plants after the
flowers have been cut, or they can be taken later —
at the time the plants are cut back in February or
March. Insert the cuttings singly in thumb pots
in a soil containing a goodly proportion of sand,
and plunge the pots in gentle bottom heat near to
the glass. Keep the soil in which the cuttings
are rooting, on the dry side, and afford a little
ventilation. In March they may be shifted into
4-inch pots, using a rather heavy soil with which
some well-rotted manure has been incorporated.
Hoof filings from the smithy form an excellent
manure for Zonal Pelargoniums, and they are also
benefited by applications of manure water from the
byres, as this will dissolve hoof and horn filings,
especially when the manure water is fresh. Active
growth must be encouraged in the plants through-
out the season, and when June arrives they will
have filled their pots with roots, when another
shift becomes necessary, again giving them a rich
compost. After the plants have fairly settled in
their new pots they may be placed outside on an
ash bottom, there to remain until about the last
week in September. Never allow the plants to
suffer from the want of water, and be careful not
to let them root through the bottoms of their pots
into the ashes. Constant removal of the flower
buds and chscreet pinching of the stronger shoots
is essential to success. When housing the plants,
and for about a month afterwards a sharp look-out
should be kept for the green caterpillars, whicli
destroy the leaves. The plants should be placed in
an airy, somewhat dry house where plenty of light
is obtained, and allowed heat sufficient only to keep
the atmosphere moving. The plants will (lower in
profusion for several years in succession, provided
they are allowed a period of rest, but one year, or
at most two year old plants will be found the best.
During the winter season watering must be per-
formed with care, and a little soluble phosphatic
manure may be added with good results. H . W'.,
Trcviiice.

CULTURAL MEMORANDAa

ZONAL PELARGONIUMS.
There ;» notliing at the present season more
cheerful in appearance than a span-roofed house
filled wit'a flowering Zonal Pelargoniums. Their
bright and variously coloured flowers are delightful,
while the suitability of the latter for table and
other floral decorations render them almost indis-
pensable subjects. Now that the time has arrived
when their propagation may be commenced a word
in reference thereto will be appropriate, for the
sooner the cuttings are inserted now the better.
For the purpose of furnishing cuttings a stock
plant of each variety is usually kept, but this is

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.,

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawren'ce,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Prcpiirations jor Shading. — The blinds or shading
used on the Orchid houses should be at once fixed
in their places to be in readiness for immediate
use. It may happen that for a week or two there
will be no need to use them, but the sun is
becoming too powerful for some Orchids,
especially when it shines forth in the middle of
the day on such plants as Phala;nopsis, Cypri-
pediums. Bolleas. Aerides. Vandas. Angraecums,
Odontoglossums. small seedlings, etc. At this
particular time of the year every care should be
taken to shade rare and delicate plants, as often
irreparable damage is done before the grower
is aware of it. After passing through several
months of dull weather the plants generally are
not in such condition to stand direct sunshine, as
they are during the autumn months. The blinds
on the East Indian, Cattleya. and Mexican houses
may be fixed so as to roll down on the glass. As
much sun heat as is possible without scorching is
required in each division. Those on the inter-
mediate and cooler houses should be raised by
means of supports fixed to the roof to five or six
inches above the glass. If arranged in this way
a current of air will pass between the blind and
the glass, which helps to preserve a suitable
atmospheric temperature for the plants during hot
weather. At Burford we use the lath roller shad-
ings for all the houses, with the exception of the
Plialajnopsis and Masdevallia houses, these being
covered with the ordinary canvas blinds.

Phalitnopsis. — In the warmest house sucli plants
as Phalsenopsis Scliilleriana, P. amabilis, P.
Aphrodite, P. Rimestadtiana, and the supposed
natural hybrid P. leucorrhoda are now in bloom.
It is a critical time with these plants, great
care being needed in supplying them with water.
If kept too wet at the root, or if water be allowed to

lodge in the centre of the growths, the leaves are
liable to become spotted and diseased. Water
should be afforded from a fine rosed watering can.
or the fine sprayer, merely sprinkling the roots
that are clinging to the baskets or pans often
enough to keep them just moist, the sphagnum-
moss that is near to the collar, or base of the
plant, being allowed to remain on the dry side.
Phala^nopsis are often seriously or even per-
manently injured by carrying their flower spikes
for too long a time. It is necessary to cut the
spikes off after the flowers ha\'e been open for a
reasonable period. It sometimes happens that the
leaves of a plant will shrivel slightly before the
flowers have opened, but if the spike is removed
immediately the blooms are expanded, the leaves
will soon become plump again when the plant i-^
placed in a shady position and water afforded with
judgment. The gradual increase of sun heat, and
therefore of atmospheric moisture, will also greatly
assist them to recuperate their strength.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cro.m\vell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timuis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Gardenias. — These are useful to supply flowers
in the winter and spring months, but they art-
very accommodating, inasmuch as their flower,
lug season can be advanced or retarded as
required. If the plants are wintered in an
atmospheric temperature of 55°, a few plants
may from time to time be introduced into the
warmer house, and if afforded an increased
amount of moisture they will soon commence
to expand the flower buds. Stimulate the plants
by applying liquid manure and occasional dress-
ings of Clay's Fertilizer to the roots. Keep a
sharp look out for insects. G. florida inter-
media is tho best variety to grow for affording
(lowers for cutting, and should be given a place
in every collection of stove flowering plants.

G/oWosas.^-The old soil should be shaken fronr
the tubers of these stove climbers, and the plants
repotted in a mixture of light loam, good leaf
mould, well decomposed manure and fibrous
peat, with fine sittings of crocks and some sand to
keep the whole porous. If the potting soil
is in a suitable condition the plants will require
no water until they commence to grow, after
which a moist and heated atmosphere, with in-
creasing supplies of water and frequent appli-
cations of weak liquid manure, will be found
to favour their growth. These plants are trained
up the rafters at Cleveley in a house in which
Codiaeums (Crotons) are grown. In this situa-
tion they are exposed to the full sunshine, the
colour of the flowers being much improved with
this treatment, and they also last much longer
when used for dinner table decorations, for which
purpose they are much admired.

Hard-wooded Plants. — Plants of Epacris that have
finished flowering should be cut back, but not too
severely, and be placed in a warm pit to induce
them to break into new growth. When the young
shoots have grown about two inches or so in
length repot firmly any plants that requhe it.
The same remarks and treatment apply to Ericas
of the hyemalis and Wilmoreana type. At this
season of the year mildew often attacks Ericas,
and causes much mischief before it is discovered.
As a preventive apply a light dusting of flowers of
sulphur.

Mignonette. — Plants raised from seeds sown in
the autumn, and that have been steadily growing,
will now need to be repotted; but in doing this
work do not disturb the roots more than is neces-
sary. Good drainage is all-important, as the
careful application of water is one of the principal
items in the successful growing of Mignonette.
These plants are very much benefited by lime,
consequently a few pieces of old mortar rubble
can with advantage be used in the drainage of the
pots, while a sprinkling of fine siftings of the same
material used in the potting compost will tend to
keep the roots in a healthy condition. Good
turfy loam, with dried cow manure that has been
rubbed through a sieve, and a little soot, will
form a suitable potting material. If grown as
standards, restrict the plants to one straight stem
until they reach the required height, when the
side growths may be allowed to branch on to the
trellis, after which frequent stopping and tying of
the shoots will be necessary. The plants will be
greatly benefited by occasional dressings of Stan-
den's manure.

General Remarks. — A considerable number of
flower seeds should be sown this month. See that

February 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

103

the pots or seed pans are thoroughly dean, and
provided with perfect drainage, after which partly
till them with some rather rough fibrous compost,
and complete with a layer of finer soil, which must
be made firm. Examme the seed pans at least
once each day, preferably in the morning, as
negligence when seeds are germinating may end
in failure. Should the soil in the seed pans
become dry after the seeds are sown, the safer
plan will be to soak the soil, being careful not
to float the seeds. Increase such plants as
Dracaenas, Bouvardias, &c., by cutting the stout
roots into short pieces, or the stems into lengths
containing an eye or two, and inserting them in
soil in pots, which must be placed in bottom heat.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKi.NSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Late Vines. — In houses containing such
varieti-es as Blacli Alicante, Lady Downes, and
(iios Colmar, the work of pruning should be
already completed. The wood-work should be
thoroughly washed down with water containing
soft soap and paraffin in order to kill or dis-
lodge any insects that are lurking in the crevices
i)f the wire-work and rafters. If the Vines were
attacked last season with red spider, let the
rods be washed with the same solution. Prick
up th« surface of the border with a fork,
rind apply a similar top dressing as was recom-
mended in a previous Calendar for early fruit-
ing Vines. The Vines may be started gently
into growth towards the latter end of the present
month, as very little saving in fuel can be made
by postponing this until later in the spring'.
Ill such circumstances, should the following
autumn be dull and sunless the Vines would
require more artificial heat to ripen them. A
Vine or two of the variety West's St. Peter's
are very useful, especially for '' invalids," as
the fruits have very thin skins and are rich and
juicy. They ripen in October, and will keep
in good condition until March. It sometimes
happens that with the grapes being kept on late
Vines until January, the borders become rather
dry, and if this be so water should be applied to
them before forcing commences.

Tomatas. — If the winter-fruiting plants are
clean and in good health, they may yet be
encouraged to yield a few more fruits. Apply
a top dressing of turfy loam and bone-meal,
and now that the days are lengthening and the
sun is gaining more power, a little extra air
may be admitted to the house during sunny
days. Plants raised from seeds sown in the
last week of December are now ready for the
final shift into 8 or 9 inch pots. Use a compost
consisting of three parts rather strong loam,
adding some manure from an old mushroom
bed, wood-ashes, lime scraps, and a sprinkling
of bone-meal. These plants when repotted
should be placed on a shelf not far from the
glass, placing a grass turf under each pot, which
will help to keep the roots in a moist condi-
tion and form a bed for them to ramify in after
the pots have become full. The plants require
an atmospheric temperature of 60" at night, but
a rise may be permitted during the day. Leave
a space of fully two inches in each pot to allow
of a top dressing being applied when the first
bunch of flowers have set.

Early Peach Trees. — Continue to disbud these
trees, taking care to leave a shoot at the base
of each bearing shoot, and another at the
extreme end. Those which are retained for
supporting the fruit should be pinched back to
the third leaf, but the basal growth must be
trained in for next season's bearing wood.
ICxercise care in ventilating the house, so that
there will not be currents of cold air. Where
there is very much bloom, some of the flowers
may be taken off, and these remaining will
thereby be benefited.

in the past lost much in effect by the beds being
too thinly planted, and the display of flowers
marred by the appearance of the unsightly manure
and bare ground beneath the plants. The Rose
beds should be planted in April or May with
whatever it is decided to cover the surface of the
ground, so that by the time the roses come into
bloom the soil will be hidden. By the end of Sep-
tember, or whenever circumstances permit, the
beds can be cleared again of these decorative
plants, and a heavy dressing of manure applied
to make good the additional drain which has been
put upon the soil's resources during the summer
months. Dwarf plants similar to Lobelia pumila,
tufted Pansy, and Phlox Drummondi are admir-
ably adapted for use as surface bedders. Of the
Lobelia, the dwarf compact growing blue varieties
are best, and they can be easily raised by thousands
from seed. The seed should be sown now in heat,
in shallow boxes and very thinly to avoid ' ■ damping
off." In a few weeks' time the seedlings can be
pricked out singly into slightly deeper boxes, and
by the end of March, or beginning of April they
will be ready for transferring into boxes of still
larger size in which they will remain until
planting-out time. In putting them into these
last boxes give sufficient space between the
plants to allow of them making a "tufted"
habit of growth. The blue of the Lobelia
harmonises effectively with orange yellow coloured
Roses, or with such copper coloured Roses as
L'Ideal or Ma Capucine, so should be used
as a foundation or surface plant for beds filled
with Roses of this colour. A purple variety of
"tufted Pansy" harmonises with yellow roses.
As a contrast, white Roses and blue Lobelia go
well together. For planting below the different
shades of red Roses, Phlox Drummondi, in the
desired shade of colour to harmonise, is an ex-
cellent subject, but it requires constant attention.
It will be necessary to go over the beds containing
the Phlox Drummondi at least twice a week, as soon
as the plants are established, to thin out the
growths, and peg them down, otherwise their vigor-
ous growth would prove detrimental to the Rose by
completely smothering those of weakly habit.
The white " tufted Pansy" makes a good contrast
for a bed of red Roses, and so does any green-
foliaged carpeting plant.

wet days to get shreds cut, stakes sharpened,
covering material overhauled and repaired.
Protect Pear, Gooseberry, and Currant trees
from birds. Remove all decayed fruits from the
fruit room. Admit a little air at all times to
dispel damp. Apples and Pears are keeping
well this season. Pear Olivier de Serres is in,
capital condition just now.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigkew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
' St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Anmials, *iid tender bedifers in the Rosary. — Despite
a prevalent prejudice against planting amongst the
roots of roses, or in fact growing anything but
roses in the Rosary, it is now generally admitted
that the use of any light-rooting annuals or bedders
to hide the bareness of the bed is conducive of little
harm to the roses, while the improvement in effect
is incalculable. There is no doubt that Rosaries

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Standard Apple and Pear Trees. — The present
is a good time to prune and cleanse these trees.
The pruning is necessary for relieving the trees
of superfluous wood, such as dead and decaying
branches, and for cutting back all weak growths.
Scrape away as much as possible of the lichen
on the trees, and afterwards spray the trees
with the Xl^-all wash. Those contemplating
making a new orchard would do well to plant
the ground with Potatos. It w-ill not then 'u'e
unproductive all the season, but will be made
clean ready for planting in next October and
November. Choose a site on moderately high
ground where there is some available shelter
from winds ; the soil should be of clayey loam
and be well drained, either by natural or artifi-
cial means. Select the varieties of fruits care-
fully, choosing some that will ripen early, in
mid-season, and late, but, above all, select
those varieties that have proved themselves
to be most useful and serviceable in the
locality. For use at the present season we
have no better Apple than Dumelow's Seed-
ling (Wellington), an Apple of moderate
size and good flavour and cooking quality.
It is also a good cropper. For some time
past the fruits have been quoted in the
markets at from 8s. to 14s. per bushel, and at a
quarter of this rate they would be very
remunerative. In order to obtain satisfactory
crops it is necessary to treat the ground well
and leave nothing to chance.

Pear Trees prove very remunerative when good
and suitable varieties are planted on well-
drained ground. 1 have seen bushels of Pears
lying on the ground in country places, the
owners not knowing how to dispose of them,
and thinking the Pears worthless because they
were hard.

Standards of Plum, Damson, etc. — Thin out the
shoots of these trees and shorten the strong
growths.

General Work. — Proceed with the pruning and
nailing of trees generally. Take advantage of

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Onions. — Failure in this crop, owing to the
attack of the Onion fly, are more frequent in the
north, especially in cold districts, than in the
south of the country, which is owing to the
voung plants being in a less advanced stage
of growth at the season when the fly is breed-
ing. The plants are not so readily attacked when
they are older, therefore no better system can
be practised in these districts than that cf
sowing the seed thinly in bo.xes in gentle heat,
growing them on steadily and hardening them
off by the end of April, when they can be planted
out of doors in lines drawn at 16 inches apart,
putting each plant six inches distant from its,
neighbour. There is no necessity to prick off
the seedlings into other boxes or to cultivate the
plants so highly as would be necessary to grow
exhibition Onions, but they may be transferred
direct from the seed boxes to the open ground.
A far greater weight of produce will be the
result, and the bulbs will not be so large in
size as to injure their keeping qualities. They will
be earlier and much more likely to be immune
from the attacks of the fly. In more favoured
districts Onion seeds may be sown out of doors
towards the end of February or early in March,
according to the condition of the weather and
soil. Young Onion plants are not readily in-
jured by frost, but are more easily ruined by
excessive moisture, therefore those who have
light soil can sow before those having soil
ol the opposite character. In any case it
should be deeply worked and contain plenty
o: manure. Choose a fine day and fork
over the space to be sown, adding at the
same time a heavy dressing of soot. . X^t
shallow lines be drawn at distances of 12 inches
apart, just allowing a sufficient depth that the
seed may be covered a quarter of an inch deep.
A sowing of wood ashes on the seeds before
covering them is an excellent practice. The
old variety James' Keeping is still one of the
best to keep in good condition a long time,
together with Veitch's Main Crop and Sutton's
Al, all of these being most suitable for this
method of culture. Silver Queen is an excel-
lent variety for use in pickling, and a few rows
of the.se should always be sown, as the bulbs
are better for the purpose than the small ones
picked from the other varieties mentioned
would be.

Leeks. — The main sowing of Leeks should be
made at the same time and in lines in the same
m.anner as the Onions. Make sure of a good
tilth in order to get strong plants to transplant
as early as possible. More often than not this
crop is not transplanted sufficiently early to
yield the best results. Musselburgh is still one
of the hardiest and best to stand the winter.
Sutton's Royal Favourite has intense green
leafage and is thoroughly hardy ; it has the
advantage of thickening early, is of medium
length, and becomes ready for use in advance of
many other varieties.

Garden Paths. — Now that all the wheeling and
heavy traffic incidental to winter is nearly done,
attention should be given to the edgings. If
Box requires relaying it should be done ai;
once. Do not allow this edging to become-
overgrown, and thus afford a harbour for slugs,
etc. Box, if well laid and trimmed annually,
is, I think, the best form of garden edging,
but in soils where Box will not succeed, orna-
mental tiles may be recommended. These
should be laid deeply in concrete, otherwise
they may be easily broken by accident. Gravel
paths are improved in appearance by an annual
sprinkling of fresh material. This will cost nO'
more expense than is entailed by a heavy dress-
ing every third year. Attend to the edgings
ot grass paths and returf any bare patches.
A top dressing of very rotten dung if put
through a sieve and applied to the turf will
effect much good.

104

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febriarv 17, 1908.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
VV.C.

Letters for Publication, as ivcll as spedincus and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent Gs cavly in the iveek as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ie Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- T/jc Editor -,vill be glad to receive atuito select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, Jiowers, trees, &c. ; but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

^e'wspsk\>ers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local cvcids likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

FRIDAY, Feb. 23 Roy. Botanic Soc. meets.

SATURD.'W, Feb. 24 Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meets.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 39-3'.
Actual Temperatures: —

l-osoo-a. —Wednesday, Feb. 14 (6 p.m.) : Max. 46" ; Min.
29°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, 'London.—Thiirsday Feb. 15 (10
a.m.): Bar., 29.6; Temp., 44°; Weather— Much
rain.
Provinces. — Wednesday, Feb. 14 (6 p.m.) : Max. 45°
Cornwall ; Min. 36* S.E. Scotland.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Thousands of Hardy Border and other plants, Roses,
Lilies, Azaleas, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, B.C., by
Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY—

Lilies, Hardy Border plants and perennials, Gladiolus,
&c., at 12; 3,000 Roses also Fruit Trees at i and 3.
Greenhouse plants, Ferns, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside,
E.C., by Protheroe & Morris.

Clearance Sale of Nursery Stock, Greenhouses, &c., at
the Nursery, Castle Road, Southsea, by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12.

Sale of Palms, Roses, Lilies, &c., at Stevens' Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden, London.

THURSDAY—

945 cases Japanese Lilies received direct, also Lily of
Valley, Palm Seeds, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, B.C., by
Protheroe &i Morris, at 3.

FRIDAY—

Herbaceous plants and perennials. Hardy bulbs. Pink
Carnations, Roses, .^zaleas, &c. Imporled and estab-
lished Orchids troui various sources, Orchids in flower
and bud, at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12,

In the face of the Report — the

The Royal g-rcater part of which was given

tupal '" °"'' columns last week — it is

Society. "**'^ wonderful that a tone of

satisfaction [jrevailed at the
annual meeting- of the R.H.S. on Tuesday
last. What was there to do but to express
gratitude to Baron Schroeder, the veteran
who persisted that we must have a hall,
and kept on persisting till, largely through
his generosity, the hall is an accomplished
fact, and everyone is praising its commodious-
ness and convenience? What was there to
do but again record our acknowledgments
to Sir Thomas Hanbury, to whom we owe
the delig-htful garden at Wisley, with all its
potentialities? What was there to do but
recognise thankfully the services of Mr.
Wilks, Mr. Wright, Mr. Reader, and of the
staff generally? No less imperative was the
•duty of showing our appreciation of the ser-
vices of the President, so long and so un-
waveringly given, through bad'times as well
as in the present state of prosperity.

Sir TuEvoR Lawrence commented on the
report in terms that we need not here repeat,
and Mr. Gurney Fowler, the treasurer,
made one of tho.se excellent, lucid statements

as to the financial condition of the Society
which inspire so much ■ confidence. The
amount of profit made in 1905 was, he told
us, no less than jQ6,2ot„ and then he went
on to say how the monev had been spent on
the hall, and at Wisley — and clearly well
spent too. The fly in the pot of ointment was
the heavy loss entailed by the summer show
at Chelsea. The show was a good one, the
weather unexceptionable, the site beautiful,
but the attendance of the public very unsatis-
factory. This may have been because suffi-
cient publicity was not given. In any case,
the public lost a fine opportunity, and the
Society suffered a loss which was, as far as
they were concerned, quite unmerited.

Mr. Elwes, in supporting the motion for
the adoption of the report, suggested the ad-
visability of a publication committee to assist
the editor of the journal. Whether the edi-
tor would care to be hampered in this way is
doubtful, but, at any rate, the practice of
other societies of appointing expert referees
to report confidentially to the council or to a
publication committee as to whether certain
articles should, or should not, be inserted
might, if adopted, relieve the editor of some
responsibility and tend to reduce the present
bloated volumes to more reasonable dimen-
sions.

The distribution of plants to the Fellows
from Wisley also came under discussion.
The present system involves an amount of
trouble wholly disproportionate to the benefit
to horticulture and, to some extent, perhaps,
is linimical to the interests of the trade.
There are certain plants not generally in
commerce, or of special interest, which might
advantageously be propagated for the bene-
fit of the connoisseurs — and, for the rest, the
society should not compete with the members
of the trade.

The most interesting feature of the day
was the election of four new Victoria Medal-
lists of Honor in place of a similar number
deceased. When we say that the new re-
cipients of the honor included Mr. Harry J.
Veitch, Mr. William Marshall, Mr. R. I.
Lynch, and Mr. J. Smith, of Newry, wo feel
that our readers will add their plaudits to
those which made the room ring on Tuesday
last. It will doubtless occasion some surprise
to realise that some of these gentlemen have
not long ago been entitled to write V.I\LH.
after their names, but as they were members
of Council, they may have thought it right to
waive their claims. Be that as it may, their
rights will be recognised universally.

The Right Hon. Lord Balfour of Burleigh
and the Right Hon. the Earl of Tankcrville
were elected members of Council, and Major
Holford, CLE., C.V.O., and Mr. Henry B.
May were re-elected.

Our Supplementary Illustration to the

present issue affords a view of a portion of the
Royal Gardens at Sandringham that has not been
previously illustrated in these columns. It is
known as the Queen's "Wild Garden," and being
situated only a very short distance from the mansion,
affords a very pleasant contrast to the more formal
f.ower garden, and an agreeable retreat from
bright sunshine. In our Coronation number pub-
lished in 1902 reference was made to this feature
of the Sandringham gardens, and though certain
modifications in the planting have since been made,
and various improvements carried out, as in the
substitution of an irregular stone path for the
much worn path of turf, the general effect is of
the same character. In the view photographed,
some of the principal objects include the great

Thistle, huge Lavender bushes, Rosemary, and
herbaceous flowering plants that help to brighten
the more sombre effect afforded by the many trees
and shrubs. It is worthy of remark that, apart
from any dissimilarity there may be in the colours
of the numerous shrubs, there appears to be an
infinite contrast in the forms of leaf and habit of
.growth of the various plants.

The Factory Act and the Florists'
Shops. — It appears from an advertisement in
our last week's issue that an attempt is being
made to bring florists' shops under the pro-
visions of the Factory Act, and thereby to
subject the proprietors of those establishments to
regulations and restrictions which would " prac-
tically make the business of a florist impossible."
It is to be hoped that the real state of the law will
be speedily determined. For this purpose the
Florists are combining among themselves to assist
any one who may be prosecuted under the Factory
Act. The names of the following well-known
Florists are appended to the document : — Messrs.
GooDYER, Piper & Son, Strudwick, Taverner,
Wills & Segar, Brooks & Son, Butler, and
Robert Green.

Mats on Garden Frames. — Mr. F. G.
Brewer, of Bryntirion Gardens, Dolgelly,
Merionethshire, N. Wales, sends us a sketch of
an iron appliance for fixing mats on garden frames.
One end of the iron is fixed to a corner of the
frame, and a strip of board passed through on the
top of the mats makes the covering secure.

American Carnations. — The great improve-
ment of these in recent years is attributed by the
President of the American Carnation Society to
increased size of flower, longer duration, and
greater variation of colour — we think we may
add, greater length and stiffness of stem, and hope
that no further increase of size will be looked on
with favour, but that enhanced fragrance may be
ensured.

The late Shirley Hibberd. — It may be
remembered that on the death of this genial and
much respected member of the horticultural
fraternity a subscription was raised for the benefit
of his only daughter. The sum originally sub-
scribed was ^232 i6s. gd., which was invested in
the hands of trustees for her benefit. Now that
the lady has attained a majority steps are being
taken to transfer to her the sum of ^324 7s. 6d.

The National Potato Society. — The
annual report for 1905 is very interesting and
very suggestive. The reports of shows are only
of passing interest, but the carefully-compiled
records of experiments made in various
counties are of permanent value. The experi-
ments have reference to the trial of newly
introduced varieties, to the determination of
synonymous forms, or, at least, of such that are
so like some others, as, for practical purposes,
to be treated as identical. The relative powers
of resistance to disease are also tested, and the
advantages of "change of seed" brought to
light. The trials in any one year, hov/ever
accurately conducted, cannot be accepted as
absolutely satisfactory, but a series of such
trials in the same localities spread over a num-
ber of years will certainly elicit most important
results. The report can be had from Mr. W.
P. Wright, Postling, Ilythe, Kent.

Packing Seed for the Tropics. — The need
of proper packing for seed intended for trans-
mission to tropical countries is one that should
receive full attention from those concerned, yet
is but too often neglected. Mr. J. H. Hart,
writing in the Trinidad Bulletin of Miscellaneous
Information, mentions this important matter, which
has lately been the subject of discussion in our
columns : — " While in England, from May to July,
1905," he says, " I interviewed one of the prin-
cipal officers of the firm of Messrs. Sutton and
Sons, of Reading, with reference to suitable seeds
for tropical use, and was successful in showing

February 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

105

him the need for better packing when sending
them from temperate cHmes. What are required
are sealed packages after the form of biscuit tins
to secure the seeds from damp and small insects.
This enterprising firm are now packing seed in
small quantities for immediate use in fine or thin
metal containers, which are hermetically sealed
in dry air. The packages cost one penny each
more than the ordinary paper envelopes, and the
seeds are preserved in a fine growing condition
some loo per cent, longer than by the old method,
and will not perish while in the hands of the
seedsman who undertakes their sale locally. The
firm, I am informed, has arranged with Messrs.
Stephens cS: Scott, of Port-of-Spain, to distribute
for them as local agents in Trinidad, and it is now
certain that growers can obtain seeds of fine
quality and reliable vitality. This method of
packing will enable growers to keep Iheir seeds
until required quite free from the attack of insects
and secure from the effects of climate. The pack-
ages can be readily opened when necessary and
should obtain a ready sale in this colony."

Scottish Horticultural Association. —
The inaugural address by the President, Mr.
D.wiD W. Thomso.n, was mainly devoted to the
subject of change — change in fashion, change in
taste, change in material, change in circum-
stances. The lecturer alluded to the compara-
tive decline in the culture of stove and green-
house plants, and to the rise in favour cf
hardy herbaceous plants, of Narcissi, of Chry-
santhemums, and Carnations. With Grapes to
be bought at Is. a lb. the lecturer predicted
the gradual decrease in the culture of the
Vine, just as imported Pines have in many
cases caused the disappearance of Pine stoves.
Mr. Thomson strongly urged upon the young
gardeners that they should watch the signs of
the times, keep pace with the fashion, and
devote more of their attention to outdoor gar-
dening. Change also was observable in the
climate, for lately it had been as warm as or
warmer at Stornoway than at Nice. We remember
the late Mr. McNab making a similar remark
many years ago, but since then we have been
subjected to two of the most rigorous winters
known even to the oldest inhabitant, so
that prognostications as to climatal change need
to be made with hesitancy. One point was
alluded to by Mr. Thomson in which there had
been little change, and that is in the wages
paid to gardeners. The gardener's position and
remuneration are not adequate to the fore-
thought, responsibility, and intelligence re-
quired of him. In all these points the gardener
is at a disadvantage as compared with other
workers from whom less is e-xpected. Lastly,
progress and efficiency were pointed out as the
objects to be aimed at in the future. Mr.
Thomson's address will doubtless be published
in full in the Transactions of the Society. In
the meantime we call attention to it as full of
interest and sound advice to young gardeners.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Insti-
tution.— We are informed that the Liverpool
Auxiliary of this Institution has arranged to hold
its fourth annual concert, in aid of the funds, on
February 24. Dr. G. W. Mc Fall, MB, lecturer
on Botany, will preside, and a good programme of
music will be carried out. The secretary is Mr.
R. G. Waterman.

Royal Gardeners Orphan Fund. — We are
glad to note that the report and balance-sheet pre-
sented by the committee at the annual general
meeting of the subscribers to this institution held
on the gth inst. was generally satisfactory. The
receipts from all sources — and from each source
(excluding legacies) — showed an increase over
those in previous years, and the help that it had
been found possible to afford to necessitous
orphans was greater than ever before. At the
same time, we cannot help remembering that

whereas several years ago the Fund was able to
meet all applications for relief, it is quite unable
to do so at the present time, for if the receipts are
larger the demands for assistance are much more
numerous. And in connection with this lament-
able fact, it has been pointed out again and again
that if gardeners could be brought to recognise
their responsibilities in respect to the Fund, and
would subscribe but five shillings each year, it would
not be necessary to turn empty away a single child
who needs assistance. Let our readers remember
this, and also that, however unlikely it may appear
at the present time, there is the possibility that at
some future period their own children, or the
children of some friend, may be among those for
whom help may be asked from this same Fund.
Therefore, whilst it should be only necessary to
appeal for annual subscriptions on the highest
ground, and by awakening in gardeners a practical
sympathy for those among them who may suffer
misfortune, the further fact can be stated that in
many cases the sum subscribed will prove to have
been well invested. Subscribers will be sure to
approve of the election by resolution of three can-
didates who in peculiar circumstances had been
unsuccessful at the poll, and also agree with the
announcement in the report in respect to the
acceptance of two candidates at one time from
one family.

Horticultural Portraits. — It is well
known that the late Mr. Richard Dean had made
a very extensive collection of portraits of horti-
culturists, without doubt the most considerable
one in the kingdom. This collection it is much to
be desired should pass into the hands of some in-
dividual or of some body willing to preserve them
for their intrinsic interest and value. The Royal
Horticultural Society did some time since, yet
subsequent to Mr. Dean's death, endeavour to
secure tlie collection as likely to make'an interesting
addition to the Lindley Library. The offer was
made, but was unfortunately declined. That
leaves open to anyone desirous of possessing this
unique collection the opportunity to make an offer
for it. Mr. Dean was far from being a rich man.
His was a life of indomitable industry and hard
work to the last, yet it was one that did not enable
him to accumulate wealth. Hence the necessity
of asking a substantial sum for the collection of
portraits. Enquiries may be addressed to Miss
Dean, 7, Marlborough Road, Ealing, W.

Winter Flowering Carnation Society.

On the 13th inst. a meetuig of Carnation growers
and others was held at the R.H.S. Hall, West-
minster, to discuss the advisability of forming a
Winter Flowering Carnation Society. A pro-
visional committee was formed, to make enquiries
amongst growers and to report to a general
meeting, to be held in May. The following are
members of committee : — Messrs. W. E. Boys,
Leicester; J. S. Brunton (Chairman); H. J. Cad-
man (T. S. Ware, Ltd.); H. J. Cuteush, London;
A. F. DuTTON, Iver, C. E. Engelmann. Saffron
Walden ; Low (Hugh Low & Co.) ; S. Mortimer,
Farnham ; and Havward Mathias, Thames
Ditton (Honorary Secretary).

Publications Received.— AWu-c Guano. Results
of Its practical Application in the Farm and Garden —
Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits and Federated
Malay States. October. Edited by H N Ridley
Contents : Position of Rubber amongCultivated Plants!
Rubber Diseases. Rubber Notes by the Editor &c —
From the University of Illinois, Agricultural Experi-
ment Station. Urbana, November. Bulletin 104 ■ Field
Experunents on Insects Injurious to Indian Corn by
b. A. Forbes.— From the United States Department of
Agnculture. Bureau of Plant Industry. Bulletins • 84
Seeds of the Blue grasses, by Edgar Brown and F. h'
Hillman.— 85. Principles of Mushroom Growing and
Mushroom Spawn Making, by B. M Duegar — 87
'^,',-fS^tr ^"i''"'":^ of Potatos, by L. R. Tones:— Ss!
Wild Medicinal Plants of the United States, by Alice
Henkel.— No. 90. Part 11. Crowngall & Hairy.

Exchange Seed List Received.— Delectus se-
ninum ex horto Cantabrigiensis Academia: ad mutuam
commutationem propositorum. Application should be
made to the Curator. Mr. R. Irwin Lynch M A

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

Gardening in India.

Mr. Johnstone, the manager of the Himalayan
Seed Stores, Mussooree, has published a "Guide
for Amateurs." The book is arranged alpha-
betically, beginning with Artichokes and ending,
so far as vegetables are concerned , with Vegetable
Marrows, Potatos being conspicuous by their
absence. Flowers are treated in the same way.
Brief general descriptions are given and hints
afforded as to the best method of cultivating each
variety named. In addition, monthly calendars
of operations for the plains, as well as for the
hills, are given. The illustrations are. some of
them, venerable friends that did duty in seeds-
men's catalogues half a century ago, but others
are more " up to date." A general index and an
index of vernacular names add to the utility of
this unpretentious little book.

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

"GALANTHUS GOTTWALDI."
Under the above name bulbs of a Snowdrop
were received at Kew from Mr. W. Siehe, of
Messina, during last autumn. When the plants
flowered in the Alpine house at the beginning of
the year they proved to be identical with G.
byzantinus. although the examples in flower were
very w-eak as compared with this usually robust
species. The bulbs, however, were small when
received, and the flower may improve another
season. The plant possesses the distinct plicate
leaves peculiar to both G. byzantinus and G.
plicatus. but in the marking of the inner segments of
the flower it agrees with the former species. These
two species resemble eacli other to a great extent,
the chief difference being in the green markings
on the inner segments. In G. byzantinus the
apex, as well as the base of the inner segments, is
marked with green, as in G. Elwesii. In G.
plicatus the apex only is marked with green, as in
our native G. nivalis. The origin of G. byzantinus
is somewhat obscure. It was introduced in the
year 1S93, and was said to have been found near
Constantinople. Mr. Baker described it and gave
it its name. G. plicatus. the "plaited Snow-
drop." is a better known plant, and is found in
the Crimea and in the Caucasus. G. byzantinus
appears to be intermediate between G. plicatus
and G. Elwesii. with the leaves of the former and
the flowers of the latter species. Whether a
natural hybrid or a species remains to be proved,
as the origin of both G. byzantinus and G. Gott-
waldi is doubtful. Mr. Siehe stating that he re-
ceived the latter from Holland under that name.
W . I., Royal Gardens, Kcd\

VEGETABLES.

WEBB'S JEWEL TOMATO.

I consider tliis variety as the best red Tomato
for general use and for exhibition purposes. It
is almost round in shape, of medium size, and
of a lovely red colour. I am still gathering fruit
from plants raised from seeds sown last June ;
and having to furnish a supply of these fruits all
through the winter months. I find this by far the
best variety for the purpose. I can also recom-
mend it for its free setting and hea\y cropping
qualities, the plants being literally covered with
large bunches of fine, well-flavoured fruits.
WEBB'S MASTERPIECE ONION.

As the season is now at hand when the main
crop of Onions should be sown, it is advisable, if
not already accomplished, to thoroughly trench
the ground 2 feet or more in depth, as the soil for
this crop cannot be too rich, nor in too fine a con-
dition. The seed bed should be made quite firm
by treading or rolling previous to sowing the seed)

106

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1906.

whether broadcast or in drills. If grown in rows,
the lines should be I2 inches apart, and the yonng
Onions, when large enough, thinned to about
6 inches apart, according to the variety grown.
During long periods of dry weather a good water-
ing is most beneficial. Growers of Onions for
exhibition purposes usually transplant the seed-
lings, and this is almost a sure means of checking

"sms^^"

the Onion grub, so prevalent in some districts.
Having grown all the leading varieties, both for
exhibiting and for culinary purposes, I find Webb's
Masterpiece one of the best. It is a handsome
globe-shaped variety, growing quite as large as
Ailsa Craig. The flesh is white, of mild flavour,
with a pale yellow skin. R, MiUier, Maygam Gar-
dens, S. IValcs, February 1.

BUDDLEIA ASIATICA.

We publish the following note on this species,
from Mr. Alwin Berger, La Mortola, Ventimiglia,
Italy :—

" Mr. E.W.Wilson has published in the Decem-
ber number of Flora and Sylva, a full account of
the Buddleias now in cultivation. He says much
in favour of this species, B. asiatica. It wa.s
cultivated in England as long ago as 1874, and
was figured in 1S77 in the Botanical Magazine, tab.
6323, but was lost again until its re-introduction
by Mr. Wilson.

We received a young plant here last spring,
which was planted about May. in a sunny place.
It is now a bush over 2 feet high, having every
shoot terminated by its long flowering racemes.
It is not so much for the beauty of these flowers
that the plant deserves to be recommended as for
its general appearance, its flowering season, and
fragrance. Moreover, plants flowering about the
end of the year and continuing for a long time
cannot fail to be welcome.

All this makes the plant a valuable addition to
our garden flora, chiefly for the south or in other
favourable situations, where it can be grown in
the open. The species will certainly make its
way into every garden along the Riviera and not
again be lost."

Our illustration at Fig. 44 is reproduced from a
sketch made by Mr. Worthington G. Smith, of
specimens e.\hibited by Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons,
at the Royal Horticultural Society's meeting held
en January 23 last.

1'"IG. 4.1. — tUDDLlilA ASI.VTICA, Fi-OWEiiS WHITISH.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself yesponsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)
Examinations in Horticulture. — It is
doubtful whether such examinations as those held
by the Royal Horticultural Society are of much
value as a means of training in professional horti-
culture, or even as a test of knowledge of the
principles and practice of the art. Would any
practical gardener attach any importance to the
success or failure of a young man at an examina-
tion in which he is asked to explain or describe
the structure and growth of cells, the process of
impregnation of the ovule and similar academic
questions ? And even the more practical questions,
such as the description and use of implements,
manures and their application, are worthless a,s
tests of anything except perhaps memory. This sort
of thing has about the same bearing on gardening
as questions on the varieties and special uses
of saucepans, the origin and chemical con-
stituents of salt, or the eft'ects of heat on veget-
able and animal tissue have on cooking. Of
course the college students who know little
or nothing of gardening do well at the Royal
Horticultural Society's examinations, whilst in-
telligent, experienced young men of proved
ability in the garden rarely get into the first class.
Take, for example, the result of the 1905 exami-
nation. Of the 160 candidates 76 were from horti-
cultural schools, and the whole of the 20 that
obtained firsts were school-students, chiefly from
Swanley and Studley. which are for girl student-s
only. This class-room gardening may be of some
use. but it is no proof of real gardening ability, or
even aptitude. It is impossible to devise a scheme
of examination to be conducted in a class-room
that would be a satisfactory test, and I rather
fancy the examiners know that as v;ell as I do.
A gardener requires just that kind of knowledge
of his art, and skill in its practice, as will enable
him to obtain the best results as a cultivator. He
may not be able to give satisfactory answers to
any of the 24 questions asked and yet be a cham-
pion gardener. I am only concerned to protect
the gardener from the imputation of ignorance or
want of skill in his profession because he fails
in class-room questions, and that things are tend-
ing in that direction is to be seen in the action of
the London County Council in making the Royal
Horticultural Society examinations a test for pro-
motion among its gardeners. Would any respon-
sible gardener or nurseryman select the members
of his staff on such lines ? I have had many years

February 17, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

lOi

experience in sorting men for all kinds of positions
in horticulture, and I know the danger of being
too much influenced by tongue or pen work. In
horticulture we want men who are able to i^
things, and if we are going to prefer the training
of the schoolmaster and lecturer to that of the
gardener we s'la'.l get into the same mess as those
military leaders found themselves in wlien well-
schooled officers were pitted against field-made
men in the Boer war. If we are to have tests in
horticultural training they should be real and not
sham. The horticultural colleges may be doing
useful work, though one wonders where it reveals
itself ; so far as I can see it is not in any practical
field ; still, the training they give may be at least
as useful as other things taught in schools; but
this output should not be confused with the genuine
article, much less considered superior, and that is
the diuiger which I see. W. Watson, Kcu.'.

Mutual Improvement Societies. — The

federation of the numerous Horticultural Mutual
Improvement Societies into one body having a cen-
tral depot would be a means of furthering the objects
which the individual societies have at heart. If
such a scheme meet with the approval of the mem-
bers of these various bodies I suggest the adoption
of the following proposals by the Federation : — (a)
An interchange of lecturers in districts within a
given radius, (h) The formation of societies in
districts in which no society exists, (f) An affilia-
tion to a recognised federation would create the
locus standi of each of the societies affiliated, (rf)
To bring before employers and employees the
advantages of these improvement societies to both,
(f) To institute a labour bureau for gardeners, with
a registration of situations vacant and wanted.
[Is not this work already carried out by the British
Gardeners' Association?] {/) The meeting of
delegates from each society at a conference, held
annually, or oftener if desired, when matters
relating to their separate societies could be
brought forward and discussed. The society I
have the pleasure to serve as honorary secretary
is in unison with my views. Hon. Sec. of the Croy-
don and District Society, 02, High Street, Croydon,

Carnation "Coronation." — [See enquiry on
P- 95j This variety was shown by Mr. A. Smith,
of Enfield Highway, at the National Chrysanthe-
mum Society's Exhibition at the Crystal Palace on
November i, when it received an award of merit.
I have not seen it in any other collection. Mr.
Smith stated that it was one of his own raising,
but I do not know if he has put it into commerce
or not. I have since seen a large stock of " Liberty ' '
in another nursery. This variety also was shown
by Mr. Smith on November i, and gained a first
class certificate. A . H.

A GOOD Cattleya.— I send a spike of Catt-
leya Triana; delicata which is tiowering in the
collection here. The plant from which it was
cut has ten pseudo-bulbs, the largest of which
produced this enclosed spike. This spike measures
with leaf combined 22 inches, the bulbs in the
thickest part being 3 inches in circumference.
The spike originally had four flowers. F. C.
Puddle, gardener to W. H. St. (Juintin, Esq., Scamp-
ston Halt, Yorks. [A capital specimen. Ed.]

Conifers for Large Groups.^//. IV.,
p. 69, directs attention to Conifers for group-
ing, and also mentions the mistake of planters
o: sixty years ago in not giving each tree suffi-
cient room for full development. The former lack
of knowledge in this respect is apparent to-day
in many private grounds, where one may often
seo exampl-es that would have been far finer
trees, if, at planting time or later, sufficient
space had been afforded them. Planters of to-
day have a knowledge of the probable space
such Conifers will cover, and therefore such
errors should not be repeated. That a group
of the Conifers " H. W." mentions presents a
grand and beautiful appearance is without
doubt, but they must have ample room for their
true beauty and fine proportions to be seen.
And " H. \V." omits one important point in not
saying what amount of space should be allowed
between each specimen. A most beautiful effect
is produced by a group of Tkuia gigantea and
Cupressus nootkatensis, but these two species no
not require so much room as groups of Pinus
excelsa or Pinus insignis. At Poltimore ex-
amples of these last-named cover a space cf
64 and 61 feet respectively, and for trees which
have attained to these dimensions 40 feet
between each specimen is not too much to
allow. It is doubtful if Araucaria imbricata will
covet a space of more than 36 feet through, as

by the time this sire is attained the lower
branches will begin to die off. Picea Smithiana
at 50 years of age covers a space of 36 feet.
The Deodar, with a diameter of 60 feet at a
similar age, affords another example. Close
planting of Conifers will restrict the spread of
the branches, while the provision of ample room
between the specimens will encourage brancii
extension. T. H. Slade, Poltimore.

To Brighten Beds of Azaleas, Rhododen-
drons, &c. — Your correspondent R. M . at p. 91
makes a curious remark with regard to the plants
which I named on p. 46, as being suitable for the
purpose required, in that they have, as he states,
"a beauty of their own at all seasons of the year."
Why should that be an objection to their use to
brighten shrubs when the latter are not in flower ?
Besides, there are beds of Azaleas and Rhododen-
drons that contain hundreds of plants, as at Drop-
more and Bagshot Park ; and others which are
filled with a few dozens of small plants. The
person who asked the question of the editor
omitted, as I take it, to mention the size of beds;
and I named a number of plants of various species
as being suitable and of which an intelligent
gardener could select one, two, or more, as seemed
to him best for the purpose. There are positions
in pleasure grounds and semi wild gardens where
Roses, and even Scotch Roses, would not be incon-
gruities in the vicinity of Azaleas &c. F. M.

Dangerous Insecticides. — After reading
carefully all that Mr. W. H. Dobson has written
(see page S5), about hydrocyanic acid gas, its
troubles and grave dangers to both human and
plant life, one is tempted to ask whether the
game is worth the candle. Were some gardener
encouraged to use this dangerous gas after read-
ing Mr. Dobson 's article, and to be poisoned in
consequence, its doom as an insecticide would be
sealed. But I rather infer that no one of good
sense would be disposed to dabble with such an
eminently dangerous article, and especially because
it needs such exceeding care in its preparation
and use. We have plenty of patent insecticides
that are dangerous to neither man nor plant.
With these, gardeners have been enabled to
keep hot-house or greenhouse plants, Vine-
Peaches and other fruits perfectly clean and free
from insect pests, and what they have done they
can do. That Mr. Dobson had need to employ
drastic remedies in his plant houses is evident
when he states that he had plenty of "material."
That was his misfortune ; where gardening is well
done drastic remedies are not required. A . D.

Legislation and the Spread of Fungus

Disease. — In my article on this subject I dis-
tinctly stated that in certain instances a fungus
known to attack a given plant at home fol-
lowed that plant when the latter was introduced
to new countries, and followed it in such a man-
ner as to elude detection by legislative methods.
Mr. Salmon appears to have missed this point,
and replies as if I denounced legislation entirely,
and has consequently introduced controversy
extending outside my delimited sphere. With
this portion I shall not deal. There are, however,
a few points bearing on my remarks which Mr.
Salmon considers to be impossible or doubtful
that may be briefly considered. We are told that
Klebahn, an acknowledged authority on rusts,
does not know how the Hollyhock rust reached
Europe. Quite so ; but I fail to see what this
has to do with my statement that the rust did
come : on this point, I suppose, we are all
agreed, and if Klebahn does not know how it
came, surely this is proof that it came in a
manner that would have eluded legislation.
Next Mr. .Salmon points out that I have advo-
cated a point that is impossible of realisation.
Wheat taken to Australia could not have been
inoculated by spores conveyed with it, as
uredospores lose the power of germination so
quickly. This contention is derived from ancient
history, and only an assumption at best. My-
cology is a progressive science, and if Mr. Sal-
mon will turn up Science, Vol. 22, p. 50, he will
learn much relating to the modern study of
rusts ; among other things, he will learn that
the uredospores of many cereal rusts, including
Puccinia graminis and P. rubigo-vera — both
wheat rusts — remain quite uninjured and cap-
able of producing infection, after being exposed
on bits of dead leaves and straw to the drying
winds of autumn and the intense cold of a
North Dakota winter. This point, however, has
no direct bearing on my statement that the rust
fungus did reach Australia, and in a way that no

practical act of legislation could have prevented.
Other points challen^ J turn simply on a differ-
ence of opinion. I instanced a case of Broad
Beans sent to Central Africa, where they were
promptly destroyed by the same fungus that
proves so destructive to Beans at home. I
assumed that the fungus went along with the
seed ; Mr. Salmon assumed that the fungus was
there already, and simply attacked the Bean.s.
Either assumption may be correct. Mr Salmon
is convinced that the Gooseberry fungus was
introduced into Ireland ; there is not a scrap of
direct evidence on this point ; it is a conviction.
Now, suppose I adopt Mr. Salmon's line of
reasoning with regard to the Bean fungus, and
assume that the Gooseberry fungus was not in-
troduced at all, but that it was already in Ire-
land ; would Mr. Salmon even admit the bare
possibility ? I imagine not, neither would 1 ■
but is it more foolish to assume one case than
the other, and, if so, why? It might f)e
asked, Why did not the fungus attack the Goose-
berry before? I don't know. I don't know why
the Potato was with us so long before it was
attacked. I am charged with scientific in-
accuracy respecting the life-history of the
Gooseberry fungus. I intentionally abstained
from using scientific terms, but spoke of spores
only as fully explaining my contention. I was
fully conversant with the difference between
spores, perithecia, etc., for some time past, in
fact, for many years before I imparted to Mr.
Salmon the information that the group of
fungi including the Gooseberry mildew existed,
and suggested that he should study the group.
Fortunately, he acted on my advice, and the re-
sult has been an unqualified success. At the
present moment we are in possession of much
valuable iiformation respecting these mildews,
due entirely to Mr. Salmon's accurate and pains-
taking investigations. However, the mildews
number only about 50 out of the 55,000 known
species of fungi, and it may be that Mr. Sal-
mon's knowledge of the remaining 54,950 species
is not sufficiently exact to justify the position
of the all-round censor he has assumed. Potato
disease is stated to be absent from New South
Wales, and, as an instance of prompt legisla-
tion, it is pointed out that measures are in
force for preventing the introduction of Potatos
from countries where the disease exists. If the
New South Wales people in reality have no
Potato disease I shoula strongly advise them not
to import from anywhere, but to remain content
with what they have, unless Mr. Salmon can
indicata a country where Potato disease does not
exist, as I am afraid no one else can. I am not
at all prejudiced against legislation ; in fact, I
should like to see it applied in the case of our
wilfully neglected orchards and gardens that are
centres of infection from which disease spreads
in every direction. So far as this country is
concerned, nursery stock and seed cleaned by
machinery are practically free from disease. I
am quite open to conviction, but must say that
I am not convinced by Mr. Salmon's arguments,
and still consider that a very large share of
disease caused by fungi is conveyed from one
country to another in ways that no legislation
could meet. Geo. Massec.

Dressing Fruit Walls in Winter. — A

few years ago my attention was attracted by the
freedom from insect pests on the upper parts of
Peach and other fruit-trees growing on a wall,
the upper half of which had been pointed dur-
ing the previous winter, while on the lower
parts of the trees, against the unpointed por-
tion of the wall, the leaves were badly infested
w'ith aphides and other insects. The effect was
most marked, for while the fruit in the one case
attained to a considerable degree of perfection,
in the other it was very inferior. Since that
time I have made a point of bestowing extr.t
attention on the walls, in the matter of winter
dressing, using preferably a solution of caustic
soda and potash, applied with a knapsack
spraying machine, which, by the way, is one cf
the most useful appliances for use in the garden,
as by its use the mixture can be made to go
very much farther than with an ordinary
garden engine, and if can be forced into every
nook and cranny of the wall, destroying any
insects or eggs that may be harbouring therein,
the work being got over very quickly. Where
this is carried out thoroughly during the rest-
ing season, much less trouble will be experi-
enced with insects generally during the season
of growth. K. W. Dean, Wainsford.

108

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1906.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Febri^ary 13. — On the occasion of the annual
meeting of the Society, w© have become used to
witnessing large e.vhibitions and the attendance
of numerous visitors, but on Tuesday last the
display was fuller and better than ever. The
fine hall was replete with gay flowers and well-
grown plants ; the Committees were unusually
well attended, and there were numerous visitors
from the body of Fellows.

Before the Orchid Committee an exhibit
from Major HoLFORn was of outstanding merit,
and its effect was better than we have seen in
any previous exhibit of Orchids staged in the
hail. The collection of Dendrobiums from
Jeremiah Colman, Esq., was comprehensive
and of great excellence. The Orchid Com-
mittee recommended awards to novelties which
included three First Class Certificates, twelve
Awards of Merit, and on© Botanical Certificate.
Diploma Awards were also made for plants pre-
viously advertised, particulars of which are
given below.

The Floral Committee recommended three
Awards of Merit to novelties, and nineteen
Medals for groups of plants and of cut flowers,
including a Gold Medal for Carnations.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee made
no award to a novelty, and only four Medals
for exhibits.

In the afternoon, at the annual general meet-
ing, nearly one hundred new F'ellows were added
to the Society's list.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Ivsq., chairman, and
Messrs. C. T.Druery, H. B. May, K. C. Not-
cutt, Geo. Nicholson, Jno. Green, G. Reuthe,
C. J. Salter, Jas. Douglas, J. F. McLeod, Chas.
Jeffries, W. Howe, |no. Jennings, C. Blick,
Chas. Dixon, W. Bain, W. P. Thomson, R. C.
R. Nevill, A. R. Goodwin, C. E. Pearson, Chas.
E, Shea, W. Cuthbertson, E. H. Jenkins, W. J.
James, F. Page Roberts (Rev.), Geo. Paul, H.
J. Cutbush, R. VV. Wallace, R. Hooper Pearson,
and James Hudson.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
made a very fine display with Chinese Primulas,
most of the plants being at their best stage of
development. The flowers of this strain are of
unusually large size and of great substance, with
brilliant colours. Cannell's Blush Pink, Car-
mine, White, Swanley Giant, and others were
prominent varieties. In addition to the strain
already noticed, there were many varieties of
the " star " type, in which the lax and free-
blooming habit, combined with rich colours,
were greatly admired. (Silver Gilt Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, exhibited
a collection of Primula sinensis that furnished
the whole of one long table. The plants
were arranged in rows running from the back to
the front, there being five plants in each row,
and in all pver fifty varieties were represented.
These plants were as nearly alike in size and
habit as possible, and they presented a level
surface of floral colour which varied a little in
each row. It is obvious we cannot enumerate
such a number of varieties, but it may be pointed
out that the influence of " The Duchess "
Primula, which Messrs. Sutton first brought to
our notice a few years ago, is becoming more
and more evident in the varieties that constitute
the major portion of the strain. There is just one
plant of a Giant Duchess, the flowers being
nearly two inches across, and having all the
colour and "'halo " that characterised the first
plant. Its appearance was remarkable, and there
is little doubt but others of the same excellence
will be forthcoming. The " double " Duchess
is now two years old at least, and the " fern-
Isaved" Duchess is becoming equally well known.
The semi-double varieties were grouped by
themselves, and represented flowers of salmon.
Carnation-flaked, pink, scarlet, and blue colours,
as well as pure white flowers. The " Star "
Primulas were also shown, and among these
there are now double-flowered varieties. In ad-
dition to the Primulas Messrs. Sutton & Sons
exhibited a group of Cyclamen of the variety
Sutton's Cerise. The numerous plants had
prominently marbled or mottled foliage, and
every one was trufe as possible. In this variety
a very successful effort has been made to develop

to its fullest the silver or white markings on the
foliage, which in some Cyclamens are much
less prominent than was formerly the case.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

From Lady Tate, Park Hill, Streatham Com-
mon (gr. Mr. W. Howe), came a group of forced
bulbs. Mr. Howe had probably rather less space
than he required for the plants, for they were
somewhat thickly placed, but they constituted
a capital evidence of good management, the
flowers being of very large size and perfect de-
velopment. There were Tulips, Prince of Aus-
tria, Queen of the Netherlands, Pink Beauty,
Van der Neer, Duchess de Parraa, &c., Narcis-
sus, Golden Spur, Henry Irving, Princess, Van
Sion, &c., Italian pink-flowered Hyacinths, &c.,
&c. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Stamford and Peter-
borough, exhibited plants of Eupatorium petio-
lare in flower [see fig. in Gardeners' Chronicle,
March 12, igo^], also cut flowers of a strain of
zonal Pelargoniums that has been described as
a " Cactus " strain.

Messrs. Wm. Paul & Sons, Waltham Cross,
Herts., exhibited a collection of Camellias in
40 varieties. Many plants were included in the
display, some being specimens of a large size ;
all were flowering freely, and all looked the
picture of health. Many seedlings, chiefly
single-flowering varieties, found a place in the
group — Mercury and conspicua tricolor, the lat-
ter, having red-striped flowers on a rose ground,
being conspicuous. Another good flower is
Pride of Waltham. This is a double form, the
well-shaped flowers being of a lovely shade of
rose pink colour. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbeet, Southgate, Mid-
dlesex, put up a magnificent group of forced
flowering shrubs. The plants were shown in
splendid condition, and displayed in a manner
that excited admiration. The design was madt
up of three bays, the intervening groundwork
being composed of Azaleas. The central and
taller bay was furnished with grand specimens
of Magnolia speciosa and M. alba superba, set
off by the bright foliage of Abutilon 'Thomsoni,
while on either side were clumps of Lilac and
the yellow Rhododendron (Azalea) Anthonj'
Koster respectively. Standard trained plants
of Wistaria, Laburnum, Prunus triloba. Sec,
were interspersed throughout the group, which
was finished by an edging of Spiraea Thun-
bergi and small Ferns. (Silver Gilt Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Hol-
loway, London, N., showed a collection of
forced flowering plants : Lilacs, Azaleas,
Staphylea colchica. Viburnum Opulus, Prunus
triloba, Spiraeas, &c.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, displayed a group of forced flower-
ing shrubs : Lilacs, Azaleas, Viburnum Opulus
Forsythia suspensa, Deutzia, &c. (Bronze Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, staged
a dozen varieties of Lilacs and a new hybrid
Tea Ro.s© named Cherry Ripe.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Son, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, showed Clianthus puniceus
albus, Coleus shirensis, C. thyrsoideus, Eupa-
torium vernale, and Rhododendron (Azalea)
Early Gem. (Bronze Flora Medal.)

Messrs. W'm. Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, exhibited a collection of Aralias. The
species included the strong growing A. triloba,
the elegant A. Veitchi, with its handsome pe-
date leaves, A. elegantissima, and A. Chabrieri
[Elaeodendron], with simple, linear leaves.

Mr. W. Palmer, Andover Nurseries, And-
over, had a number of Primulas in 60-size pots,
adaptable for table decoration. The variety
was Queen Alexandra, a double form with blusli
rose petals.

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurserie,^,
Upper Edmonton, staged a miscellaneous
group of plants, including Ferns, Camellias
flowering well in small pots, Thyrsacanthus
rutilans, with its long pendulous racemes of
red tubular flowers plentifully developed.
Primula x kewensis, and a batch of the scented
leaved Pelargonium Clorinda, which formed the
subject of our supplementary illustration in our
issue for April 15th, 1905. (Bronze Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. J. Hill & Son, Barrowfield Nur-
series, Lower Edmonton, exhibited a group of

large specimen Ferns. The exhibit was staged
in the i'^ast Annexe, one end of which it com-
pletely filled. Splendid specimens were shown
of Dicksonia squarrosa, Davallia fijiensis
elegans, Aspidium nidus avis, Polypodium
glaucura giganteum (magnificent specimen),
Asplenium inequale, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. John Waterer c& Sons, Ltd., Bag-
shot, Surrey, set up a group of Evergreens,
principally Hollies, among which was the small-
leaved Ilex crenata. Several other good things
were included, Osmanthus myrtifolius, Andro-
meda japonica, &c.

Mr. H. Haywakd, Fife Road, Kingston-on-
Thames, showed sprays of ornamental foliage :
Conifers, Cassinia fulvida, and other shrubs,
and two large bowls containing Garrya ellip-
tica, with its long pendulous catkins well de-
veloped.

Mr. John R. Box, West Wickham, put up a
batch of Begonia Gloire de Sceaux and a few of
the Rex type interspersed with others of the
semperflorens class.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, II, 12, 13, King Street,
Covent Garden, London, W.C, showed many
choice Alpine and hardy flowers — Irises, Daffo.
dils, Adonis amurensis, Lachenalias in several
species, including L. Wrightii, with erect
greenish-white flowers tipped with deeper
green, Eranthis cilicica, Saxiifragas, &c.

Messrs. R. W'ai.i.ace & Co., Kilnfield Nur-
series, Colchester, staged a number of hardy
and rock-garden plants in flower, prominent
among which was a batch of Saxifraga burse-
riana major, and three splendid specimens c£
Lachenalia Nelsoni.

Th© Misses FIopkins, Mere, Knutsford, Che-
shire, showed a small group of Alpines. We
noticed a specimen of Daphne Blagayana in
flower.

Messrs. Thos. Ware, Ltd., F"'eltham, Middle-
sex, set up a number of pans and boxes of hardy
and Alpine plants, among others Tropjeolum
tricolor, Canarina campanula, and Orobus
vernus purpureus. Some good Carnations were
also staged by this firm. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. John Peed &■ Son, West Norwood,
also presented a display of Alpines : Hepaticas,
Primroses, Lachenalias, Hellebores, &c.

Mr. G. Reuthe, Keston, Kent, showed hardy
and rock-garden plants in flower : Irises, includ-
ing I. Bakeriana, Galanthus Ikariae, Hepaticas,
many species of Crocus, &c. (Bronze Flora
Medal.)

Sir E. G. LoDER, Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex
(gr. Mr. W. A. Cook), displayed a number of
flowers from the open that testified to the mild-
ness of th© past winter : Azara microphylla, A.
Catesbei (with handsome foliage), and A. integri-
folia.

Lady Chesterfield, Holme Lacy, Hereford
(gr. Mr. W. Humphries), showed several varie-
ties of A'iolets, all exhibiting good culture.

Mr. Robt. Sydenham, Tenby Street, Birming-
ham, brought bowls of Narcissus grown in moss
fibre. The plants were flourishing in this
material.

The Guildford Hardy Plant Co., Millmead,
Guildford, exhibited a small group of Alpine
plants in pots and pans. Cyclamen coum was
very bright in several pans, also Anemone
blanda, Iris reticulata, &c. ; but other species,
though good specimens, were not in flower.

Carnations.

The effort to make a special show of these
flowers met with success. The groups were ar-
ranged in various parts of the hall, and each
was more or less a replica of another, owing to
the similar style of staging adopted, and to the
repetition in each stand of similar varieties.
The largest display was shown by Mr.
G. Engelmann, Horneybrook Nurseries, Saf-
fron Walden, Essex. This collection made
a brilliant show, and all the flowers
were in first-class condition, and embraced a
very large number of the finest sorts in cultiva-
tion, such as Flamingo (scarlet), Mrs. T. Law-
son (and its white variety), The Belle (white),
Fmchantress, Fiancee (salmon pink). Prosperity,
The Cardinal (scarlet). Lady Bountiful, &c.
(Gold Medal.)

Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate, London,
N., set up a very pretty group of Carnations.
The flowers, which were principally of the
American or free-flowering type, showed to

iFebruaey 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

109

advantage against a groundwork of green baize,
fancy vases and bamboo epergnes being requisi-
tioned for their display, which was further en-
hanced by sprays of Asparagus medeoloides
(Smilax) entwined around the receptacles. The
varieties embraced most of the popular kinds.
We also noticed some excellent blooms of Sou-
venir de la Malmaison, Princess of Wales, and
Duchess of Westminster. On an adjacent table
Messrs. Cutbush arranged an exhibit of hardy
early-flowering plants. Two interesting plants
were Corydalis rutajfolius and Dondia epipactis.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Mr. A. F. DuTTOK, Iver, Bucks, displayed
an attractive exhibit of Carnations having e.x-
cellent flowers of many of the latest and most
beautiful of the American or tree-fiowering type.
Christmas Eve is a comparatively new scarljt
variety of good shape. The fine dark clove-
coloured Harlowarden was shown well. (Silver
Gilt Flora Medal.)

Mr. Hayward Matthias, Medstead, Hants,
arranged a small exhibit of these flowers, hav-
ing The Belle (white). Nelson Fisher, Harlo-
warden, &c. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Mr. S. MoRTiMEU, Kowledge, Farnham, Sur-
rey, contributed an excellent group of these
flowers, having well-grown specimens neatly pr-
ranged with small Palms, Ferns, and Smilax.
The brightness of the exhibit was remarked, and
the selection of varieties of the best. We noticed
a flaked variety named Mrs. 11. A. Patten, the
ground colour being white and the marking
of bright red colour. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, showed many vases of Carnations, ami
they had in addition a number of Cjxlamen
plants with flowers of white, red, salmon and
other shades of colours. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Mr. H. Burnett, St. Margaret's Vineries,
Guernsey, c'isplayed a collection of Carnations,
including two new varieties, Mrs. H. Burnett
(see Awards) and Mikado, the latter being a
flower of pleasing form, but the mauve colour
is dull. A vase of Mrs. Lawson and another of
unnamed seedlings were also noticed. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Dodd & Lancashire, Guernsey,
staged half-a-dozen vases of these flowers, but
although the collection was small, the quality
■was excellent. The varieties were Mrs. T. W.
Lawson, The President (dark clove colour). En-
chantress, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. T. S. Ware, Ltd., Ware's Nur.series,
Feltham, also displayed some excellent Carna-
tions, as already stated above.

.Awards ok Mehit.

Asparagus Colmanni. — This is a variety of
Asparagus exhibited by Jeremiah Colman, Esq.,
C;atton Park, Reigate (gardener, Mr. W. P.
Bound). It forms a dwarf bushy plant hardly
one foot in height, and throws a number rf
growths from the base. The growths are simi-
lar to those of A. Sprengeri, but more delicate
and slender in appearance.

Lachctialia " Bn'g/i/iicss." — This is one of the
fine crossbred varieties raised by Mr. MoORE,
Glasnevin Botanic Gardens, Ireland. The
flowers are of considerable size, and coloured
deep yellow with crimson margins, but the
Award of Merit was recommended mainly on
the ground that thi.s variety is an extra good
grower, and has an excellent habit. Shown by
Mr. F. W. Moore.

Carnation Mrs. H. Burnett. — This winter-
flowering or " tree " Carnation is of excellent
quality, and very attractive. The flowers are
of considerable size, and have petals only very
slightly fringed, of rosy salmon colour^ with
somewhat slender stems. Shown by Mr. H.
Bvrnett, Guernsey.

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Cnirnev Fowler, Esq., in the chair,
and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon, Sec), Major
G. L. Holford, Harry J. Veitch, Francis Wellesley,
F. Menteith Ogilvie, R. Brooman-White, H.
Little, W. Boxall, H. A. Tracv. H. G. Alexander.
Arthur Dye, F. J. Thorne, H^ Ballantine, W. H.
White, S Briggs-Bury, J. Charlesworth, A. A.
McBean. R. G. Thwaites, H. G. Morris, H. T.
Pitt, F. Sander, W. Cobb, E. Ashworth, G. F.
Moore, W. A. Bilney, J. Colman, and De B.
Crawshay.

Major G. L. Holford, C.I.E.,C.V.0., Weston-
birt, liad an exhibit which was generally conceded
to be the most extensive, varied, and beautiful,

as well as the best arranged group which has yet
appeared in the new hall, and it was deservedly
awarded the Society's Gold Medal, with the addi-
tion of the Lindley Medal to Mr. H. G. Alexander,
the Orchid grower at Westonbirt, as a mark of
appreciation of the excellent culture he had
exercised on the plants of all classes. It is im-
possible to enumerate the scores of rare Orchids
shown, and a general description of the arrange-
ment must suffice. The group occupied the
first section of the main staging at the entrance
of the hall. At the back were massive Kentias
and dwarfer Cocos Weddelliana, two noble speci-
mens of the last-named species being also placed
in the group, the centre of which was composed
of a fine lot of white Lselia anceps with
fine pans of scarlet Sophronitis arranged in front
of their gracefully arching spikes. On each side
of the central block of white La;lia anceps were
groups of rare Cypripediums which were con-
tinued by elegant arrangements of white and
coloured Odontoglossums, the white O. crispum
being specially beautiful. Then followed, on each
side, selections of good Cypripediums flanked
by richly coloured Cattleya Triana;, C. Percival-
iana, &c., the ends being of orange and crimson
coloured hybrids of La;lia cinnabarina, La:lio-
Cattleya x luminosa, rose-coloured Pinguicula
caudata, Masdevallias, some fine pans of white
Coelogyne cristata being interspersed along the
front line, the whole admirably set up in fresh
green Moss and Maidenhair Fern. Among the
Cypripediums noted was a fine selection of C.
aureum varieties, the noble C. Scipio, raised at
Westonbirt, C. Maudise, &c.

Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr. Mr.
W. P. Hound) secured the Gold Medal for a very
beautiful and varied group of Dendrobiums, many
of them raised at Gatton Park, the whole occupying
nearly 700 square feet. Thirteen distinct varieties
of D. nobile were present, the pure white D. n.
album contributing 165 flowers. There were also
several plants of the handsome D. n. Colmania-
num, a pretty w-hite flower with lilac disc to the
lip, and the rare D. tortile album. With these
were about 70 distinct Dendrobiums of the
type for which Gatton Park is noted, including
varieties of D. Artemis, D. Cybele, D. rubens,
D. Othello, &c. D. x rubens, Gatton Park
variety, was a noble and richly-coloured flower;
so also D. rubens Colmani, of a bright reddish
purple. D. Othello colossus was large, finely
formed, and with rich, claret-coloured disc to the
lip ; p. Ainsworthii Colmani, a beautiful and
dark-tinted bloom, and all the others grown to
surpass even their fine form of last year. Others
noted were a very fine D. Wardianum album,
white with orange disc, and no dark marking as
usually seen ; D. crassinode album, D. melano-
discus Aurora, D. Schneiderianum, &'c. Arranged
with the Dendrobiums were some nice hybrid
Calanthes and Phaius, white Laelia anceps, the
orange-coloured Epidendrum Boundii, varieties of
Spathoglottis .\ureo-Veillardii, the rare Arach-
nanthe Cathcartii, Masdevallias, Cymbidium
Hookerianum punctatissimum, Cattleya Trianae
alba, C. T. Purple King, Laslia Mary Colman, &c.
The whole was most tastefully arranged by Mr.
Bound.

J, Bradshaw, Esq., The Grange, Southgate (gr.
Mr. Whitelegge), was awarded a Silver Gilt Flora
Medal for an excellent group composed chiefly of
fine varieties of Lycaste Skinneri, Cattleya Trianse
and Odontoglossum crispum, in all of which Mr.
Bradshaw excels. The best of the Lycastes were
L. Skinneri alba, 20 flowers of which appeared ;
L. S. Jewel, with large rose-tinted flowers ; L. S.
Enchantress, blush white and fine in shape ; L.
S. Eros, L. S. Apple Blossom, L. S. Beauty, and
other fire varieties were equally good, and the
hybrid L. Balliana bore many rich claret-rose
blooms. The varieties of Cattlej-a Triana?, the
best of which were shown for Diplomas, ranged
from white to the best coloured forms.

Messrs. James Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham,
secured a Silver Gilt Flora Medal for a fine, varied,
and excellently arranged group in which the white
forrns of Laelia anceps and good hybrid Cypri-
pediums were conspicuous. Cypripedium aureum
Hyeanum is a grand flower, and it has never been
seen in so good a condition as in Mr. Cypher's
group. C. aureum virginale, and other varieties
of C. aureum ; C. Leeanum and C. insigne varie-
ties and many others were also well shown.
Varieties of Lycaste Skinneri, Cattleya Triana^i,
Dendrobiums, Phaljenopsis, Odontoglossums, in-
cluding the rare O. aspidorhinum, a pretty Phaio-

Calanthe, scarlet Ada aurantiaca, Sophronitis
grandiflora, and various Masdevallias were also
noted.

G. F. Moore, Esq., Chardwar, Bourton-on-the-
Water (gr. Mr. Page), received a Silver Flora
Medal for a fine group of Cypripediums, a large
proportion of them being hybrids of C. villosum
and C. Boxalli, and entering into the Diploma
competition of the day, the whole being a most
remarkable series too varied and excellent to
admit of adequate enumeration in the space at our
disposal.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, were
awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an interesting
group of good things, the best of which, Cymbi-
dium Holfordianum, secured a First Class
Certificate. (See Awards.) Cypripedium Pallas
(Godefroyae x Hookers;) was a very distinct
purplish red spotted flower; C. Leeanum Niobe
showy and distinct ; C. x Rajah (triumphans x
callosum), a good, dark flower; Odontoglossum
Loochnstyense nobilius, vellow prettily spotted.
Among good Cattleyas C. Triana Purple King
merited the name ; of species Platj-clinis valida
had a profusion of white fragrant sprays ; Eulophia
Saundersiana represented a rare and pretty species.
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr.
W. H. White), was awarded a Silver Banksian
Medal for a pretty little group of finely-flowered
yellow hybrid Dendrobiums, including two fine
D. Wigania; xanthocheilum, and two of the better
known Burford hybrid D. Melpomene ; also
D. Ophir, D. xanthocentrum, D. Aspasia, and the
finely coloured Cypripedium Watsonianum.

Messrs. J. and A. A. McBean, Cooksbridge,
receivfed a Silver Banksian Medal for a neat group
of white La;lia anceps varieties, good Odontoglos-
sums. etc., arranged with the pretty reddish scarlet
Epiphronitis Veitchii, etc. Odontoglossum crispum
Anak was a noble white flower.

Messrs. Hugh Low and Co., Enfield, were
awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a group com-
posed of Miltonia Bleuana, varieties of Cattlej-a
Trians, of which The Don was a very large
self rose coloured flower with orange coloured disc ;
Dendrobium heterocarpum, D. superbiens, with
three spikes ; D. crassinode. a nearly white Vanda
Amesiana, and various Cypripediums, of which C.
chrysotoxum, a large yellowish flower with white
to the dorsal sepal, was the best.

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Ghent, secured a Silver
Banksian Medal for a group of hybrid Odonto-
glossums; O. ardentissimum. O. Wiganianum. and
others.

J. GuRNEY Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), sent Cattleya Mir-
anda, three good forms of C. Triana;, Cypripedium
aureum Surprise, C. a. Hyeanum, C. a. virginale.
aid C. Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, the last two securing
Diplomas.

Mr. Whateley, Kenilworth, showed several
pretty Odontoglossums.

H. Druce. Esq., The Beeches, Circus Road.
St. John's Wood (gr. Mr. Walker), staged a small
group of Cypripedium villosum and hybrids.

Messrs. Heath & Sons, Cheltenham, showed a
small lot of Cypripediums, Dendrobiums. &c.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Chelsea, showed
two Sophro-Lselia Psyche, two Sophro-Cattleya
Saxa, and Sophro-Laelia Valda — all of pretty tints
of yellow and red.

Francis Wellesley. Esq.. Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), sent Cypripedium Miss Marian
Sillem, a pretty white flower densely spotted with
purple ; a very fine form of C. Mons de Curte, C.
W. E. Dickson, C. Boxalli nigricans (see Awards),
and Cattleya Chocoensis, Westfield variety, fine in
form, white with orange disc and small purple spot
on the lip.

Mr. A. A. Peeters, Brussels, showed three
forms of his fine hybrid Odontoglossum Lam-
beauianum. illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle
(see Awards) .

W. Parmenter, Esq., Braintree (gr. Mr. Buck-
land), showed a nearly white form of Lselia
Jongheana.

C. L. N. Ingram, Esq., Elstead (gr. Mr. T. W.
Bond), sent Laelia canariensis (harpophylla x
anceps) and Cattleya rubens.

W. M. Appleton. Esq.. Weston-super-Mare,
sent several hybrid Cypripediums.

R. I. Measures. Esq., Camberwell (gr. Mr.
Smith), showed an interesting collection of cut
Cypripediums.

R. G. Thwaites, Esq., Streatham (gr. Mr.

110

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1906.

Black), showed two varieties of Laslio-Cattleya
Oriens (L. Cowanii x C. Trianjei).

H. T. Pitt, Esq. (gr. Mr. Thurgood), sent
Laelia anceps Schroderiana and Cypripedmm Ajax.

Messrs. CHARLESWOKTH& Co., Bradford, showed
Laelio - Cattleya harpo - aurea, Odontoglossum
Adriano triumphans and O. Hallio Adrianse.

F, Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery,
Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), showed Lseho-Cattleya
Myra imperiaUs, very fine in colour ; Lycaste
Skinneri Fascinator, Cypripediura aureum Sur-
prise, and C. insigne Bohnhofiianum.

C. K. Wild, Esq., New Eltham (gr. Mr.
Usher), sent a good Cattleya amethystoglossa.

From the Royal Botanical Gardens, Dublin,
came a spike of a fine variety of Odontoglossum
cirrosum, Oncidium pubes, and Gongora atro-
purpurea.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, showed a pan
of a pretty terrestrial Orchid from China, reported to
be allied to Pleione pogonioides. It was awarded a
Botanical Certificate by the Scientific Committee.

AWARDS.
First Class Certificate.

Cymbidiiim Lowio-grandiflorum, from Major G. L.
HoLFORD (gr. Mr. H. G. Alexander). It is the
plant raised by Messrs. Jas. Veitch and Sons, and
who formerly received an Award of Merit for it.
Flowers large as those of C. grandiflorum, sepals
and petals emerald green , lip creamy white with red-
dish spots.

Cymbidium Holfordianum (eburneum x grandi-
florum), from Messrs. Sander&Sons. Acharming
and delicately tinted hybrid with flowers partaking
much of C. eburneum, but large as C. grandiflorum.
Present inflorescence four-flowered, sepals and
petals ivory-white, slightly tinged with emerald
green. Lip, cream-white with a row of purple
spots inside the margin and at the base.

Odontoglossum Lambeatcianum , from Mr. A. A.
Peeters, Brussels, two of whose varieties of this
noble hybrid have been illustrated in the Gardeners'
Chronicle. Flowers large, much like one of the
best spotted O. crispum, but of firmer substance
(see illustrations in Gardeners' Chronicle, Nov. 4
and Dec. 23, 1905).

Award of Merit.

LaliO'Cattlcva Myra, Burford variety (Trianae X
flava), from Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr.
Mr. W. H. White). The finest of its class.
Flowers bright yellow with dark crimson lip.

Dendvobiimi Brodiei (Dominianum x Wigania;),
from Jeremiah Colman, Esq. (gr. Mr. Bound).
Flowers white shaded with rose, disc light purple.

Spathoglottis Colmani (aureo-Veillardi X aurea.
Gatton var.). A very pretty yellow flower spotted
with crimson. Shown by J. Colman, Esq.

Dendrobium Othello Colossus, from Jeremiah
Colman, Esq. Like a very broad-petalled rubens,
and with a large maroon disc to the lip.

Cypripedium Boxalli nigricans, from Francis
Wellesley, Esq. (gr. Mr. Hopkins). The darkest
form of C. Boxalli. Dorsal sepal blackish purple
with narrow light margin. The rest of the flower
very dark.

Cattleya Trianrr, Westonbirt variety, from Major
G. L. HoLFORD. A charming form of typical
richly-coloured C. Trianae.

Lycaste Skinneri Fascinator, from F. Menteith
Ogilvie, Esq. (gr. Mr. Balmforth). One of the
finest of the delicately-tinted white and rose forms
which has yet appeared.

Lrcaste cnstata, from H. G. Goodson, Esq.
Putney (gr. Mr. Day). The fine old species with
ivory-white flowers was well shown.

Cymbidium cburneo - giganteum, from Messrs.
Charlesworth & Co. Flowers large, cream-
white with reddish brown markings.

Cypripedium x G. F. Moore, variety punctatissimum,
from G. F. Moore, Esq. A fine flower with dorsal
sepal densely spotted with blackish-purple.

Cypripedium Editha Rowena (Chamberlainiana X
bellatulum), from W. M. Appleton, Esq. Flowers
densely spotted with dark purple.

Ltrlia anceps Fascinator, from Messrs. J. & A. A.
McBean. a grand flower, resembling the fine
L. a. Chamberlainiana, but with a purplish feather
<m the segments.

Botanical Certificate.
Maxillaria arachnites, from Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart. A fine plant with many pretty light
yellow flowers.

Diploma Awards.
Cattleya Trian,^.. — 1st Diploma : Cattleya
Triana; "The Premier," from J. Bradshaw,

Esq. 2nd Diploma: C. T. Westonbirt var., from
Major G. L. Holford.

L/ELIa anceps (white). — 1st Diploma: L. anceps
Schroderiana, from Baron Schroder, Major Hol-
ford, and Jeremiah Colman, Esq. 2nd Diploma :
L. a. Hollidayana, from De B. Crawshay, Esq.

Cypripediums (Species)." — 1st Diploma: C.
Boxalli nigricans, from Francis Wellesley,
Esq.

Cypripediums (Hybrids). — 1st Diploma : Cypri-
pedium aureum virginale, from J. Gurney Fow-
ler, Esq., and G. F. Moore, Esq. 2nd Diploma:
Cypripedium Mrs. Wm. Mostyn, from G. F.
Moore, Esq., and J. Gurney Fowler, Esq.

A large collection of the Society's paintings of
certificated Orchids bearing on the Diploma ex-
hibits was arranged, and proved very useful and
instructive.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: A. H. Pearson (in the chair), and
Messrs. Jos. Cheal, James Gibson, W. Bates,
Geo. Woodward, S. Mortimer, A. Dean, H.
Parr, W. Fyfe, Ed. Beckett, W. Pope, K. Lye,
H. J. Wright, Jas. Vert, Geo. Keif, VV. Barnes,
Jos. Davis, J. Lyne, Chas. Foster, P. C. M.
Veitch, J. Willard, J. Jaques, J. Mclndoe, Owen
Thomas, and \V, Poupart.

.Six good bunches of Black Alicante Grapes in
an excellent state of preserv.ition were shown
by G. C. Raphael, Esq., Castle Hill, Englefield
Green (gr. Mr. H. Brown). (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

The small table in the Annexe contained
several dishes of Apples, and two Broccoli,
named respectively Snow's White and Brydon's
Peerless, were shown for award, but were passed
by the Committee.

Mrs. MacCreach, Thornhill, Stanton-in-
Peak, Bakewell, Derby, showed six dishes of
Oranges and two of Lemons. The Oranges were
well coloured, and ornamental, but appeared
hollow and of little value for dessert. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading put up a
magnificent stand of Potatos. The collection
numbered 150 dishes, besides many species and
types. Among the ordinary varieties were the
very latest and best, and shown in first-class
condition. More interesting than the culinary
varieties were the numerous species and types,
as showing from what apparently insignificant
origins the fine tubers exhibited on either side of
them have been obtained. The tubers of Sola-
num tuberosum were about the size of small
marbles ; those of S. Maglia were of the size and
shape of cob-nuts ; the skin being almost black ;
the tuber S. Commersoni was much larger, and
the skin was very pale. S. polyadenium re-
sembled Pea-nuts in shape, and were not much
larger than these fruits. Then there were the
different varieties of the type known as Fir
Apples, the small white Fir Apple somewhat re-
sembling a Fir Cone. Blue Giant was staged
in juxtaposition to the large variety said to have
originated from S. Commersoni, and the resem-
blance was seen to be very great. We have no
space to name the interesting commercial va-
rieties with which the exhibit abounded. (Gold
Medal.)

Mrs. Denison, Little Gaddesden, Berkhamp-
stead (gr. Mr. A. G. Gentle), staged about 30
dishes of Potatos in 17 varieties. They formed
a remarkably even, clean lot of tubers, and em-
braced several of the latest novelties. (Silver
Knightian Medal.)

The Annual Meeting

was held in the lecture-room upstairs, under
the chairmanship of Sir Trevor Lawrence,
President. Nearly one hundred new Fellows
were elected at the commencement of the pro-
ceedings.

Sir Trevor Lawrence moved the adoption of
the annual report and balance-sheet, and the
motion having been seconded by Mr. Gurney
Fowler, remarks on the subject of the repo.'t
were made by Mr. H. J. Elwes and Surgeon-
Major Ince, after which the report was adopted
unanimously and with acclamation.

The President, Treasurer and Secretary were
reelected. Major Holford, CLE., C.V.O.,
and Mr. Henry B. May were re-elected members
of Council, and Lord Balfour of Burleigh and
the Earl of Tankerv'ille were elected new mem-
bers of Council. The Rt. Hon. J. Chamber-
lain, M.P., Earl of Ducie, Lord Rothschild,
Karon Schroeder, Sir J. T. Dillwyn-Uewelyn,

Bt., and Sir Frederick Wigan, Bt., were elected
vice-presidents of the Society. Mr. Alfred C.
Harper was appointed auditor. Remarks on
this meeting will be found on page 104.

ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.

Annual Meeting.

The annual meeting of the subscribers to this
deserving institution was held at Simpson's
Restaurant, Strand, London, on February g,
Mr. H. B. May presiding. About thirty sup-
porters comprised the company, but the smallness
of the assembly may be taken rather as an indica-
tion of the confidence reposed in the management
than to lack of interest. The report of the Exe-
cutive Committee was presented to the meeting,
and was as follows : —

Report of Executive Committee.

" The Committee, in presenting their eighteenth
annual report, congratulates the subscribers once
more upon the continued steady progress which
the Fund is making, though the annual income is
still far from sufficient to meet the many claims
now made upon the charity. The revenue for the
year (exclusive of legacies, &c.), shows an increase
of /i86 i6s. over the receipts for 1904; while
having regard to the special objects for which the
Fund w'as established, the expenditure in weekly
allowances and grants in aid of the sum of
/i,438 15s., an increase of /108 15s. over the pre-
vious year's total, the Committee believes will be
accepted as an assurance that they are administer-
ing the means at their disposal with a due regard
to the beneficent policy of doing the greatest good
to the greatest number. That the number of
claims for assistance has considerably outgrown
the Committee's resources, may be seen by a
reference to the list of candidates seeking election
and the relatively small number of ten only which
the Committee feel justified in recommending the
subscribers to elect. That the Committee would
be glad to see the position reversed is obvious to
all, and reversed it could be easily enough if only
the great body of gardeners in the country would
afiford the support which such an institution surely
deserves. With such a sma.l subscription as 5s.
per annum, there are hundreds of gardeners who
could, if they would, render solid aid, and the
Committee again most earnestly appeals to the
better nature of the many who have hitherto
neglected their obvious duty.

" The number of orphans who have been elected
to receive the benefits of the Fund during the 17
years of its existence is 204, and the total amount
expended in allowances during the same period is
;^i4,g6i I2S. 6d. At the commencement of the
year, 88 children were receiving the full weekly
allowance, and 15 were added to the list at the
annual meeting. On December 31 the number on
the Fund was 90, and 23 of the candidates waiting
for election were receiving grants in aid.

" The question raised at the last annual meeting
as to the advisability of permitting two members
of one family to seek election at the same time,
has been well considered by the Committee, and
they have come to the conclusion that, having
accepted the nominations of tlie children whose
names appear on the voting list, they had no
option but to allow them to appeal for election ;
but that, until further notice, the nomination of
only one child at a time from any lamily will be
accepted unless in very exceptional cases, when
the dire necessities of a family may properly justify
the acceptance of two.

"The Committee records the fact with much
gratification that, under the genial presidency of
the Earl of Mansfield, the annual festival held on
May II proved from every point of view an un-
qualified success, the entire proceedings giving the
liveliest satisfaction to all present. Lord Mans-
field's kindly appeal for the support of all inter-
ested in the welfare of the Fund met with a most
generous response, the subscription list amounting
to the handsome sum of /S89 4s. 8d., which
amount has only once been exceeded at any pre-
vious annual dinner. The Committee most heartily
thanks Lord Mansfield for his great kindness on
that occasion, and invites the subscribers to join
them in unanimously adding his Lordship's name
to the roll of Vice-Presidents.

" The next annual festival has been arranged to
take place at the Hotel Cecil on Thursday, May 10,
when the esteemed treasurer of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., has

FiiKUUAKv 17, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Ill

most kindly consented to preside. Mr. Gurney
Fowler's keen personal interest in gardening and
Hifluential position in the horticultural world will,
the Committee feels assured, insure for him a most
cordial reception as well as a very generous
measure of support on that occasion.

" The supporters of the Fund will learn with as
deep regret, as the Committee feels in making the
announcement, that, in consequence of ill-health,
Mr. Sherwood has felt compelled to resign the
office of Treasurer, which he had held for nine
years. Than Mr. Sherwood the Fund has had no
more generous supporter. From the first incep-
tion of the movement which led to its establish-
ment none has more whole-heartedly watched
over its interests, and his munificent benefactions
and ready counsel and advice in promoting its best
interests will cause his name to be remembered
with sincere gratitude and affection. The Com-
mittee congratulates the subscribers on the
acceptance of the office, at their unanimous
request, by Mr. Edward Sherwood, in succession
to his father.

" With due regret the Committee records the
loss which the Fund has sustained by deaths of
valued supporters, including two of the Vice-
Presidents, Sir Reginald Hanson, Bart., who pre-
sided at the annual dinner in 18S9, and Mr. Kichard
Dean, one of the founders of the Fund and for
some years an active member of the Committee.
From the late Mr. David P. Laird the F'und
received constant support from its foundation.
He was ever most energetic in bringing its claims
under the notice of his Scottish friends, and by his
deatli the orphan children of Scottish gardeners
have lost one of their best friends.

" The Committee have with sincere regret been
called to accept the resignation of their valued
colleague Mr. George Cuthbert, in consequence of
his severe accident. In recognition of the warm
interest taken in the Fund by Mr. Cuthbert and
his family his son, Mr. George H. Cuthbert, has
been unanimously elected to the vacant seat. The
members of the Coramittae who retire by rotation
are Mr. H. B. May, Mr. W. Bates, J. P., Mr. G.
Caselton, Mr. H. J. Jones, Mr. J. W. Moorman,
Mr. W. Nutting, Mr. G. Reynolds, and Mr. J. H.
Witty; and Messrs. May, Bates, Caselton, Moor-
man, Nutting, Reynolds and Witty being eligible,
offer themselves for re-election. For the seat
vacated by Mr. Jones, who retires, the Committee
recommend the election of Mr. Charles Di.\on,
Holland House Gardens, Kensington, W.

"The Committee again desire most cordially to
record their appreciation of the valued services
rendered by the auditors, Mr. M. Rowan and Mr.
P. Rudolph Barr. Mr. Rowan is the retiring
auditor and is nominated for re-election."

The balance-sheet showed that the total income
from all sources was £i.oi'j os. 4d., including a
balance from the last account of ^1,306 13s. bd.
The magnificent sura of /8S9 4s. 8d. was raised in
connection with the annual dinner, which amount,
less ;f 149 19s. gd., for expenses in connection there-
with, formed by far the largest contribution to the
fund yet made. Invested funds furnished £ii(>
19s. gd., while subscriptions and donations realised
;f55i 14s. jd. On the debit side of the balance-
sheet the total expenditure, including investments,
reached a sum of ;^2,339 19s. 6d., and a substantial
balance of ^697 os. lod. remains on hand. The
total grants expended in allowances and relief
amounted to ;f 1,438 15s.

The Chairman, in the course of his remarks,
expressed his pleasure at the increased income, all
sources of which are augmented save that of
legacies. Still he was not satisfied, and he ap-
pealed for more subscriptions, especially from the
general body of gardeners. He instanced one
large county in which four children were receiving
allowances, and which had two candidates on the
present voting paper, yet that county contributed
last year only the small amount of ^28. Another
county sent but ^24, and of this amount /15 came
from one town, there being only two gardeners who
had subscribed direct. The Committee have care-
fully considered the question of allowing two
candidates from one family to be nominated for
relief, and while they do not recommend that any
alteration be made in the rules ir order to render
such applications impossible, because in some cases
it might become an absolute necessity, still the
Committee will not ordinarily accept after this
date the nomination of a second candidate from
one family until the first has been elected. The
Chairman also referred to the success of the last
annual festival, and congratulated the subscribers
on securing Mr. Gurney Fowler to preside at the

next similat; function. The retirement of Mr. N.
N. Sherwood from the present post of treasurer
was deeply regretted, as no better friend of the
fund than that gentleman existed, but they were
happy m the fact that Mr. Sherwood's son had
consented to take up the responsibilities his father
had felt compelled to relinquish. The adoption
of the report having been seconded by Mr. Bates
in a few well-chosen words, Mr. Alex. Dean rose
to support the motion. He advocated the co-
operation of the numerous Gardeners' Mutual
Improvement Societies throughout the country to
swell the funds. At the Kingston Gardeners'
Society, of which the speaker was a member, a
collection was taken at every meeting, with the
result that £n had been forwarded to the secre-
tary. This, in itself, was not a large amount, but
if other bodies did likewise an appreciable sum
would be realised.

The Election of Officers
was next proceeded with. The president and
vice-presidents were all re-elected, and The Earl
of Mansfield was unanimously elected a vice-
president.

As above stated, Mr. Ed. Sherwood was installed
in the office of treasurer, vice Mr. Sherwood,
sen. The auditors were re-elected and thanked
for their past services. All the retiring members
of the committee were re-elected to serve, and
the name of Mr. Chas. Dixon, gardener at
Holland House, Kensington, substituted for that
of Mr. H. J.Jones, who retired. Mr. Brian Wynn
was re-appointed secretary.

Resl'lt of the Ballot.
The chairman announced the names of the
successful candidates and the number of votes
they received as follows : — •

Name. Votes.

1. Josephine Inglis .. .. .. 533

2. Edith Clare Harvey • • . . 439

3. Albert Leslie Day.. .. .. 318

4. Arthur Reid .. .. .. 297

5. Doris Evelyn Stride . . . . 287

6. William Allan Seaman . . . . 2S4

7. Ena Mary Tilbury. . .. .. 241

S. Harold IngersoU Hayes . . . . 237

9. Thomas Arthur Hardes .. .. 213

10. Olive Gertrude Bundy . . . . 205

After the declaration of the poll the chairman
said that it was a matter for regret that two
children for whom third applications had been
made were still unsuccessful, also that a third
candidate, whose father had subscribed regularly
to the funds for 17 years, had also been unsuccess-
ful. If some one would move that these three
children, Albert Edward Page, Arthur Richard
Sparkes, and Edward Lee be added to the list by
resolution, the committee would be glad to give
the resolution its support. Mr. W. Marshall
thereupon moved that the children be elected, and
the motion was carried unanimously.

The Friendly Supper.
In the evening the members of committee
and friends, to^the number of 35, assembled at the
friendly dinner at the same hotel. Mr. H. B.
May presided, supported by Mr. Edward Sher-
wood and Mr. W. Marshall, and a pleasant
evening was spent.

HORTICULTURAL CLUB.

Annual Meeting.

February 13. — The annual meeting of the
members of the Horticultural Club took place
on the above date in the club room at the Hotel
Windsor, Westminster.

The Committee, in the annual report, an-
nounced that it had the pleasure to record an
interesting year in the history of the club, and
the reading of excellent papers after the monthly
dinners. During the year seven members have
resigned, all owing to the distance at which
they reside from London. The number of
members is now 127. The Committee deeply
regrets to have to record the death of the
founder of the club, who was also the first
secretary — the Rev. Honywood D'Orabrain,
whose interest in the club was maintained until
the last. Mr. Harrison Weir had been an
honorary member for many years, and by his
death an interesting personality has gone from
among us. The general meeting of the club

was held on February 14 (1905), and was fol-
lowed by the annual dinner under the presi-
dency of Sir John Llewelyn, Bart., about eighty
members and guests being present.

At six o'clock p.m. the members and friends
assembled for the annual dinner. Sir John T.
Dillwyn-Llewelyn, Bart., presided over a com-
pany which numbered rather more than seventy.
-Mr. George Paul proposed the toast cf
" The Royal Horticultural Society," and re-
ferred humorously to the "great surplus" the
Treasurer of that Society had declared earlier in
the afternoon to those who attended the annual
meeting. In the presence of such profits he
would suggest to the Council that whilst letting,
the Vincent Square Hall as profitably as
possible to others than those engaged in horti-
cultural work, that they should let it for next
to nothing to the smaller horticultural societies
who were less prosperous. There was no wonder
that the annual meeting had been a satisfactory
one, and it was certain that in the hands of the
present Council the interests of the Royal
Horticultural Society were safe. Mr. W. A.
Bilney responded, and in the course of his
speech said it was desirable that an insti-
tute for scientific research should be established
at Wisley.

The toast of the evening, that of the " Horti-
cultural Club," was proposed by the President,
who made kindly and sympathetic reference ta
the decease of the Rev. H. H. D'Ombrain and
Mr. Harrison Weir. Sir John Llewelyn was
sure that the club served a very useful purpose,
and was glad that it continued to succeed. Mr.
George Monro responded, and stated, amidst
laughter, that if the Royal Horticultural Society
had been able to show a surplus on the year's
working, so also had the club, for the auditor.s.
had declared a balance that day of 2s. S^d. !
The club was a social centre for horticulturists,
the members were very fond of the institution,
and it could not be denied that the papers read
at the monthly meetings were of a very high
Older of merit. Many of them had been accepted
for publication in the Royal Horticultural
Society's " Journal." The club had 127 mem-
bers, and a sum of between £400 and £500
invested at the bank.

Mr. Harry J. Veitch proposed the toast of
" The Chairman " in very appropriate terms,
and remarked upon the affection Sir John
Llewelyn is known to entertain towards the
club. He always attends a meeting when it is
possible for him to do so, and arranges many
of his visits to London in accordance with these
meetings. Sir John has a delightful garden at
Penllergaer, in South Wales, but it is distant
from London about 200 miles. In response,
the President said that the club had nothing to
thank him for, but he had himself to acknow-
ledge indebtedness to the club and to members
of the club. He felt that it was a great privi-
lege when coming to London to be able to meet
horticultural friends in such a social manner as
they did there.

The next toast was that of " The Visitors,"
proposed by Mr. W. J. Jefferies, and responded
to by the Rev. C. J. Smith, B.A., Dr. Augustine
Henry, and Mr. Rawlings. The toast of " The
Secretary, Mr. Cook," proposed by the Chair-
man, and received with musical honours, con-
cluded the list. A good programme of music
was rendered by the "Quavers" Vocal Quar-
tette, and the dinner tables were very prettily
decorated with flowers by Messrs. James Veitch
& Sons.

LEEDS PROFESSIONAL GARDENERS'
BENEFIT.

The thirty-ninth annual report and statement
of accounts of the above society expresses great
satisfaction at the continued improvement in the
financial position of the institution.

The amount of sickness experienced among the
members during the year has been particularly
small, entailing an expenditure of £a 14s. 2d.
only, or just over 5s. per member.

Six members (and one member's wife) have
died during the year, and of these four had been
members since the society's formation in 1867.
The total income for the year amounted to
/195 i8s. iid., and the total expenditure to /13S,
which leaves' 3 profit on the year's account of
^57 i8s. iid., and this gives a grand total of

112

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 17, 1908.

/i,348 8s. 2d. as the available funds, represent-
ing a value to each member of £ia 15s. 6d.,
a gain of £1 per member during the year.
The number of members at the present time is
126. The committee deeply regret the loss by
death of Mr. Robert Featherstone, a senior
trustee. At the special meeting held on Decem-
ber 5 it was resolved to adopt the committee's
recommendation to make application to become
a Branch of Grand United Order of Oddfellows.

CARDIFF AND COUNTY HORTI-
CULTURAL.

January 30. — The annual general meeting of
this society was held on the above date, under the
presidency of Mr. J. Grimes. The statement of
accounts for the past year showed the receipts
to be ;fi,028 I2S, 3d., with an expenditure of
/950 5s. yd., leaving a balance of ^78 6s. 8d.
m hand. The payments included the amount of
the adverse balance of /175 due on the 1904
account. The dates for the next show were fixed
for July 25 and 26.

SOUTHAMPTON ROYAL
HOKTICULTUEAL.

February 5. — The annual general meeting of
this society was held in tlie Council Chamber at
the Municipal Offices on the above date. The
Mayor, H. Cawte, Esq., presided over a small
attendance.

The statement of accounts showed a total income
for the past year of /707 lis. 4d. and expenditure
and liabilities amounting to £j2g is. gd., leaving a
deficit of £zi i6s. id. on the year's working, but
as the society has a reserve fund amounting to
£-j5 and stock valued at over £^0, it possesses
a total of assets over and above liabilities of
;^io3 3s. 8d.

The report shows that, notwithstanding the im-
proved excellence of each of the exhibitions, the
gate receipts at both the Rose and the Autumn
Shows were the lowest recorded for many years,
unpropitious weather and counter attractions be-
ing credited with the cause. An urgent appeal is
made for increased and additional subscriptions.

The society's Rose Show for igo6 is to be held
on June 27 at the County Cricket Ground, and the
hope is expressed that the liolding of the show on
this date will induce the trade growers to exhibit.
The Carnation Show is to be held on the Pier as is
usual, while the Autumn Show is to take place at
the Artillery Drill Hall. The report and state-
ment of accounts were adopted, alter which the
following officers were elected ; — President,
Sir Samuel Montagu Bart. ; Chairman, Mr.
H. J. Blakeway, together with the other retiring
members of the Council, and the Secretary, Mr. C.
S. Fuidge, who now enters upon his 34th year of
service and who has been associated with the
management of the society for over 40 years.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

February 12. — On this date the Executive
Committee held a meeting at Carr's Restaurant,
Strand, Mr. Thomas Bevan presiding.

It was resolved that the acting Secretary's
salary for the ensuing year be fixed as before at
the rate of £100 per annum.

The election of the new Committees excited
considerable interest and, in some cases, com-
petition. One-third of the Floral Committee re-
tires annually in rotation, and this election was
the first item on the agenda. The ballot re-
sulted as follows: — J. B. Riding, A. W. Sea-
• brook, C. J. Ellis, W. Harrison, E. F. Hawes,
W. Wells, H. J. Jones.

A Sub-Comqjittee, consisting of Messrs. D. B.
Crane, C. H. Curtis, and Harman Payne, were
appointed to compile the necessary list of last
season's novelties for inclusion in the schedule
now in prepara-tion.

Messrs. Ingamells, Hawes, and Moorman were
elected as the new Financial Committee, and out
of the various nominations for the Schedule Sub-
Committee Messrs. John Green, W. Howe, P. A.
Cragg, Ingamells, Oliver, G. Prickett, Simpson,
Crane, Haweg, and Moorman were appointed.

Mr. C. H. Curtis, the secretary of the Publica-
tion Committee, made a brief informal report
concerning the proposal to issue a Year l3ook,
and promised a detailed report on th« subject
for the next Committee meeting.

Several new members were elected.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Rehmannia angulata.— Garfni F/ora, 1. 1547.

Rose, Madme. Abel Chatenay, H. T.— Revue Hortlcote,
February i ; a " Gold Medal " Rose raised by M. Pernet-
Ducher, of Lyons, and said to be the product of a cross
between Dr. Grill and Victor Verdier. The flowers are rosy
carmine, shaded with orange and salmon.

TRADE NOTICE.

Mr. H. Marslen has been appointed manager at Mr.
L. R. Russell's, Wood Lane Nurseries, Islewortli, in suc-
cession to his late father.

ENQUIRIES.

Timber for use as Firewood. — I should feel
obliged if any of your readers could refer me to a
book on timbers from the firewood point of view.
I want a comparative view of different woods,
showing : (i) length of time required between cut-
ting down and burning, (2) readiness of ignition,
(3) endurance, (4) heat evolved, and {5) freedom
from sparks and sputtering. B., February 13.

Transparent Paper. — Can any reader inform
S. F. where to obtain transparent paper used for
the protection of plants.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Address : G, B. The Americjn Florist, 324, Dear-
born Street, Chicago, U.S.A. We know of no
work on the subject you mention.

Basic Slag for Lawns : Tooting. Basic slag
contains free caustic lime, and it is the presence
of this lime which renders the manure so useful
as a fertilizer for strong soils or those which
contain large quantities of humus, and hence
are naturally acid by nature. Slag is very
useful for any soils deficient in lime, but experi-
ence lias shown that it is less good if used on
light soils that contain little natural potash or
not much humus. Therefore, when it is pro-
posed to apply slag to lawns one has to be
guided by the character of the soil. For strong,
clayey soils 10 cvvts. per acre may be used, or

4 ozs. per square yard. For sandy and the
higher class of soils 7 cwts. per acre, or 3 ozs.
per square yard, will be sufficient, to which
must be added 2 ozs. of kainit, or i oz. sulphate
of potash, per square yard. These manures
should be applied during the month of Feb-
ruary, if possible.

Basic Slag or Lawn Sand : IV. S. These two
substances are quite different in character, and
are used for very different purposes. Basic slag
is applied to add both lime and phosphoric acid
to the soil, and therefore is of little use for very
poor lawns. It must have natural potash and
humus to act upon, otherwise no good
effect will be apparent. Lawn sand is used
especially to destroy moss on lawns, and to give
a stimulus to the grasses. If your lawn is in-
fested with moss it shows poverty of soil, and
basic slag would be of no service. In this case
use for the area you mention 10 lb. superphos-
phate, 4 lb. nitrate of soda, and i lb. sulphate
of iron. These may be mixed together and
sown any time within the next month. If your
lawn is in fairly good condition and contains a
moderate quantity of humus (decaying root-
fibrils), and does not suffer from drought, then
apply 20 lb. of basic slag to the area mentioned.
Slag is of no use to very dry soils. There must
be a certain amount of moisture to combine
with the acid of the soil, and this slightly acidi-
fied water acts directly upon the phosphate
present in the basic slag. During the month of
April apply to the lawn which has had the slag

5 lb. of soot or finely sifted fowl manure, to be
sown during damp weather.

Carnations Diseased: C. L. The name of
the fungus responsible for the disease is Hel-
minthosporium echinulatum. The fungus
vegetates between the two membranes of the
leaf, and it is difficult to destroy it by external
remedies. Pick off and burn all the diseased
leaves and destroy any plants badly affected.
Spray the remaining plants and their surround-
ings with weak Bordeaux mixture, or dilute
permanganate of potash (Condy's fluid).

Correction. — Our correspondent, Mr. A. D.
Burney, points out that the word " manuring "
in the seventh line of his note on page 91,
should have read "knowing."

Cyclamen: A. B. The unhealthy appearance is
due to thrip. Soak the foliage in a solution of
tobacco water.

Cypripedium: R.W. Richards. The original record
of C. X Leeanum is insigne X Spicerianum, and
doubtless that was correct worked both ways
for the earliest batches. But later batches were
raised in many gardens with what were called
varieties of x C. insigne viz., C. i. Chantini
and X C. i. punctatum violaceum. Some of
these were, however, the natural hybrid C.
nitens, imported freely with some true insigne,
and in some of the forms not distinguishable
from true C. insigne, although study has shown
that they are natural hybrids of C. villosum and
C. insigne. In batches where such so-called
C. insigne has been used as a parent the latenl
C. villosum comes out in some of the hybrids in
a most extraordinary manner. There is no blame
to the raisers of the varying seedlings, for even
an expert cannot be certain in all cases, but in
the progeny you get a clearer view in reverting
forms. You may say, then, why call them
Leeanums ? The answer is that they cannot be
called anything else.

French Gardening Papers : G. H. Le Jardin,
6, Rue de I'Abbay, Paris ; Kevuc Horticole, Rue
Jacob 26, Paris 5e.

Grubs Among Fern Roots : H. G. P. The grubs
are those of one of the weevils. These are
disastrous pests and must be removed or they
will in time kill the plants. Turn the ferns out
of their pots and soak the " balls " in a weak
solution of extract of quassia. A plan of
capturing the beetles is to place slices of Potato
or Carrot on the soil in the pots.

Hyacinths : H. H. For some reason or other
the bulbs did not develop flowering spikes
last autumn, although they have since grown
very well and have rooted freely. That the
bulbs were incapable of flowering may be due to
imperfect ripening last season, or to the bulbs
being too young. Your system of cultivation
appears to have been the proper one.

Names of Plants: W. G. S., Lancister. Aa
imperfectly developed specimen of Cattleya
TriauE. — A. E. M., Bristol. i, Cypripedium
Boxalli ; 2, appears to be intermediate between
C. Boxalli and C. insigne; 3, C. insigne. If
all w'ere imported together the variation of
No. 2 would be explained as suggested. —
E. C. C. D. Euonymus radicans variegata,
Cotoneaster Simonsi. — I. T. Cypripedium
nitens. The Cattleya bulb shows disease and
such plants rarely recover. It would be better
to burn all badly affected. — F.B. i, Begonia
hydrocotyla^folia ; 2, Begonia fuchsioides. —
E. H . Iris japonica, syn. Iris chinensis ; com-
monly known in gardens as Iris fimbriata. — A . H.
2,TsugaHookeriana; 3, Picea Morinda; 4,Pinus
Cembra (probably) ; 5, Cupressus (Retinospora)
obtusa ; 6, Arbutus Unedo ; 7, S, 9, 10, 11,
Your specimens were so badly labelled and
packed that we are unable to name the others
as the labels were mostly detached. — F. S.
Boussingaultia baselloides.

Potato, Potatos : H. S. W. Very many years
ago. when the Chronicle was young, by some
oversight the "e"was, on one occasion, left
out of the plural noun. The then editor,
recollecting that the word was often spelt with-
out the final "e" in the singular, determined
that in future the " e" in the plural should, in
the Chronicle, also be deemed superfluous. The
present editor found the system in use and has
retained it. In order, however, to obtain sup-
port for the practice, he submitted the case to
the late Dr. Latham. In reply the great scholar
said that our version, if unusual, was correct, and
that we were merely anticipating a usage which
would become more and more general, as indeed
time has proved in the case of other nouns
ending in "o" in the singular. The lexico-
grapher complimented us on being up-to-date,
and we hope to continue so.

Communications Received. — H. C. — 3. C. — \V. S. — D. S.
F.— A. C. F.-A. H. W.-N. E. B.-E. H. B.-H. M.—
J. F. B.— R. P. B.— H. B.-T. G.— H. W.— W. B. H.—
Chloris-F. L.— F. J. V.— W. H.-E. H. W.— W. M.

For Market Reports, tec page xviii.

Supplement to the " Gardeners' Chronicle."

Photo by E. T. Lamb.
MiLTONIA VEXILLARIA, VAR. EmPRESS AuGUSTA VICTORIA, FROM THE COLLECTION OF

Major Holford, Westonbirt, Gloucestershire.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers. 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.C.

Feukvary 24, 190(3. ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

113

THE

^mbcncrs'Cbronitle

No. 7,000.— SATURDAY, February 24, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Apple aud Pear " pips "

Azalea, beds of

Boiler, the Excelsior ...

Books, notices of —
Flora and Sylva
Fruit Growers' Guide
The Book of Cut
Flowers

Carnations, American ...

Carnations, winter-
flowering

Cherries in Parkinson's
time

Committees, the Royal
Horticultural Society's

Country in town move-
ment, the

Cu tural memoranda —

Hippeastrums

Poinsettias and Eu-
phorbias

Ciilzean Castle, plants in
flower at

Cyaniding plant houses
123,

Dafifodils, early

Examinations in horti-
culture

Forestry, a new school of

Fruit Growers' Federa-
tion, National

Garden pots

Heredity among plants,
Mendel's theory of ...

Horticultural exhibitions
at Birmingham

Income tax, claims for
return of

Kniphofias and their
culture

Lawrence, Sir Trevor,
liouour to

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Catlleya Bowrinsiaia, from Major Holford's collection
Miltonia vexillaria •" Empress Augusta Victoria " (Sup-
plementary Illustration).
Montanoa bipinnatitida flowering at Bordighera ...

Rose garden, the, at Lofts' Hall, Essex 115,

121

Law notes

122

123

Lucerne, a fungoid

123

disease of

122

Mangels, manures for...

122

131

Manuring Potatos

121

121

Montanoa bipinnatifida

123

Montbretias

123

117

Obituary —

122

Breese, William Cham-

berlayne

126

123

Forrest, John

12B

Orchids at Westonbirt

113

121

Plants, illustrations of...
Plants, new or note-

122

121

worthy—

Pleione yunnanensis...

115

121

Rodgersia sambuci-

folia

115

lie

Plums, late dessert

varieties of

116

116

Potato disease and the

Bordeaux mi.vture ...

122

123

Riiododendrons, plants

for associating with ...

124

124

Rose garden at Lofl"s

121

Hall

115

Small holdings

124

124

Societies—

122

Society of Horticul-
tural Science (Ame-

123

rica)

125

121

Royal Horticultural ...

121

(Scientific Committeej

124

120

Week's work, the —

Flower garden, the ...

119

120

Fruits under glass ...

118

Hardy fruit garden ...

119

123

Kitchen garden, the ...

119

Orchid houses, the ...

118

117

Plants under glass ...
Willow timber, the value

118

121

of

124

123
116

M-

ORCHIDS AT WESTONBIRT.

(See Supplementary Illustration.)
ANY of our readers had the privilege
of inspecting tlie superb display of
Orchids made by Major Holford in the
Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent
Square, Westminster, on February 13th, and
all who did so will agree that never was the
gold medal of the Royal Horticultural Society
more deservedly awarded than it was on that
occasion. All the specimens shown were
examples of unusually successful cultivation,
and they were grouped together and relieved
in such a manner that the general effect of
the displav was as good, or even better than,
has previously been afforded by an exhibit of
Orchids in the new hall. The public spirit
shown by Major Holford and other ariiateur
exhibitors in their willingness to incur the
trouble and expense of bringing so many
choice and valuable plants considerable dis-
tances, in order to make these meetings so
attractive as \.\\ey are, is beyond praise.

The following account by Mr. James
O'Brien of the conditions under which the
Orchid;; arc gro'.vn at Westonbirt may be of

ir.icrest to many of our readers, in conse-
tiuence of the excellence of the plants so re-
cently exhibited from that collection.

" The collection of Orchids in the gardens of
Major G. L. Holford, C.I.E., C.V.O., at Wes-
tonbirt, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, is contained
in fifteen modern Orchid houses, the greater
number of which constitute a recently-con-
structed block erected by Messrs. Mackenzie
and Moncur, of Edinburgh. This range of
buildings is complete in every detail, and no-
thing likely to aid in the successful culture of
the plants appears to have been omitted. The
heating of the block is perfect, and to this fea-
ture Mr. H. Alexander, the Orchid grower at
Westonbirt, attaches great importance, for, in
his opinion, irregular temperature, either from
faulty heating apparatus or from bad manage,
ment, is one of the most common causes of
unsatisfactory results. The houses are chiefly
span-roofed structures running at right
angles to the connecting corridors. The
floors of the houses are formed of the natural
earth surfaced with clean shingle or some other
moisture-holding material, a neat trellis cover-
ing the walk. The light but strong stagings
are generally of open teak wood in two tiers ;
on the higher the plants are placed, the lower
being covered with cocoa-nut matting and
leaves, kept damp for the purpose of
evaporating moisture. In some instances a
temporary wire-work is placed about a foot
above the hot-water pipres and between tt^m
and the lower stage. This is also covered with
some moisture-holding material similar to that
on the lower staging. Thus a suitable but not
excessively warm temperature is maintaitied,
which accounts greatly for the robust condition
in which all classes of Orchids are seen at
Westonbirt, the Odontoglossums especially,
which have pseudo-bulbs, superior to any seen
in their natural habitats.

Potting Material.

" Another important question which seems to
have been finally settled at Westonbirt is that
of the best material for potting. Good peat of
Bracken fibre more or less mixed with sphag-
num moss, was always believed in and used
with f.'ur success. But good peat was not al-
ways obtainable, so when the 'leaf-soil' pre-
scription was commanding attention elsewhere,
a careful use was made of it at Westonbirt, but
for many reasons it was soon abandoned. Ulti-
mately, American Osmunda fibre was tried, and
with such marvellously good results that it has
almost displaced the use of peat. As to the"
benefit from the change, a glance at the Weston-'
birt Orchids, individually and collectively, gives
the best of all testimony. With Osmunda fibre,
however, as with other materials, care in water,
ing is the leading point to be observed. Cypri.
pediums and terrestrial Orchids are still potted
in the material formerly used generally.

" Orchid growing at Westonbirt has been car-
ried on for many years, and although most of
the old favourites have disappeared under the
old methods of culture, there is still a small col-
lection of Vandas, and some other plants known
to have been in the gardens for more than fifty
years. An interesting example is a small plant
of Cattleya Ilardyana, which nearly died, but
which is now, like the other older inhabitants,
rejuvenated. This plant is believed to have
been the first C. Hardyana to flower in Europe,
as it bloomed before tho specimen which the
late Mr. George Hardy showed before the Royal
Horticultural Society in 1885. Evolution has
resulted in the oresent-day collection being
composed very largely of hybrids raised rt
Westonbirt during the time Mr. Alexander has
had charge, and the countless plants of all ,
sizes, and the size and vigour of a large pro-

portion of them, which either h-ve flowered cr
will soon do so, are almost incredible, m view
of the short space of time in which the work has
been accomplished. Some of the methods un-
der which such good results have been attained
may here be mentioned, such as the allowing
of fairly liberal pot-room to all plants as soon
as they are rooting vigorously in the first small
pot ; the absence of any set time for repotting
the plants of any house, or stated class of
Orchids, each plant being repotted when neces-
sary, that is at the time when the roots
begin to push strongly on the last growtTi,
for by so doing the new roots at once take ad-
vantage of the fresh material. Thus managed,
the small hybrid Cattleyas and Laelio-Cattleyas
in their early stages have, in some cases,
pseudo-bulbs as broad as they are high, and a
relatively sturdy condition is maintained up to
their flowering periods and onwards. Some two
hundred crosses of Cattleyas, Laelias, and
Brassavolas in which none but the best parents,
albinos, and rare varieties have been used, have
been effected.

" The corridor connecting the houses contains
a large quantity of these hybrids, both on the
stage and suspended from the roof. Some are
in flower and a great quantity in sheath.

Odontoglossu.ms.

" Referring to the principal classes in the
houses connected by the corridor, mention may
be made of a magnificent lot of Odontoglossums,
the O. crispum in flower being of the fine broad-
petalled type. With these in bloom are some
gcod forms of O. Andersonianum and other
showy varieties, while suspended overhead is a
number of well-flowered plants of O. Rossii
majus, and O. Cer^'antesii. In another house is
a fine collection of the largest type of O. crispum,
and other Odontoglossums, many being in
flower. All show the same remarkable vigour,
among them being O. crispo-Harryanum,
with fleshy leaves nearly three inches in
width, and another fine Odontoglossum,
which; from a single pseudo-bulb in 1904,
made five leading pseudo-bulbs in 1905, and
is now a great mass of growth, with
twelve strong leading shoots. Some fine things
in bloom are O. loochristiense, and its remark-
able variety, ' Lord Howick ' ; handsome
plants of O. Adrianae, O. Wilckeanum, etc.
Next follow several houses containing hybrid
Cattleyas, Laelias and Laelio-Cattleyas, with a
collection of white forms of Cattleya labiata,
C. Mossiae and other large-flowered Cattleyas.
Some of the crosses are interesting, among them
Cattleya citrina x Brassavola Digbyana and
Lselia anceps Schroderiana x Cattleya aurea.
Sophronitis gradiflora forms large masses, and
a number of specimens, each with from ten to
fifty large, brilliant scarlet flowers, makes a
fine show. This plant is here grown under cool
treatment, and appears to double the number of
its flowering growths every year.

'■ Laelio-Cattleya Charlesworthii, L.-C. Cap-
pei, and other crosses of L.-cinnabarina present
a fine show of orange-colotired flowers with
crimson and purple lips.

" Phal^nopsis Rimestadtiana and P. Schilleri-
ana are finely in bloom, some of the latter bear-
ing flowering spikes with nine branches and
about eighty flowers.

C.4TTLEYAS.

" The Cattleya houses present a fine sight, fhe
plants in flower being principally C. Trianse. C.
T. Westonbirt variety is a handsome form. An
instance of what may be done by good culture is
given by another pretty light form of C. Triana;,
which from a small plant has, in a short time,
multiplied into several strong specimens, bear-
ing between them 26 flowers. C. T. Russelliana
and other old favourites are in bloom. A

114

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febeuaey 24, 1906.

singular circumstance is noted in the case of two
plants bought from collections widely separated,
and under different names, although evidently
from the same original plant. Both are bearing
badly developed flowers (the only instance in the
collection), doubtless an occasiorul peculiarity
with the plant. Cattleya Percivaliana is well
in bloom. A grand specimen of Lselio-Cattleya
elegans has produced nearly 100 flowers, while
other smaller plants are also in bloom.

" Dendrobium Wardianum, with its pure whit;
variety ochroleucum, and some hybrid Dendro-
biums brighten the houses with their flowers ;
a grand specimen of Epidendrum radicans,
trained over the end of a house, has over 120
heads of its large orange-scarlet flowers.

The Span Range.
" In the' three-quarter-span range is a fine dis-
play of white varieties of Laslia anctps, and
another long house is literally filled with the
fine and varied flowers of favourite Cypripe-
diums. Manv of those in bloom are new crosses
raised at Westonbirt, and some of these have
outstripped all others in their classes, such as,
for instance, C. Alcibiades magnificum, C.
Milo Westonbirt varietv. and C. Niobe Weston-
birt variety. C. Sallieri has been found a very
satisfactory parents, and many of its hybrids
are very choice varieties ; for example, C
Scipio, the result of C. Sallieri x Mrs. Tautz,
while a fine type of C. Boxalli crossed with
the Westonbirt C. Euryades has resulted in a

grand flower heavily marked with rich mahog-
any red. Some of the specimens of C. Lee-
anum varieties, and others, have 20 or more
flowers, and arc beautiful objects. Two houses
containing hybrid Cypripediums, many ap-
proaching the flowering stage, serve to ensure
a supply of fine novelties for some years to
come.

" A batch of Miltonia vexillaria is in excellent
condition, even small plants have five or six flow-
ering spikes. [See supplementary illustration to
this issue. — Ed.] The large specimen plants of
(.'ymbidium have numerous inflorescences, some
already in bloom, including the rare C. Lowio-
grandiflorum, and C. eburneum, C. eburneo-
I.owianum has eight spikes, some with seven

I'IG. 45. — C.VTTI.KVA nOV.'KlXGIAN A, IKOM MVJOn IIOLTOUD's COLLIXTION'.

irhcto by E. T. Lamb.

Febru.\ey 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

115

flowers, and others are gigantic specimens.
With them is a grand clump of Ada aurantiaca,
good Odontoglossum Edwardi, Oncidium ma-
cranthum ; a nice batch of showy Masdevallias,
and, in the collection of Sobralias, a large
specimen of the original Sobralia Holfordi, by
far the larg-est rose-purple Sobralia of the ma-
crantha section. Vanda Kimballiana is grown
in very large masses, and V. teres, including
the blush white variety Aurora ; a strong speci-
men of the carmine scarlet Sophro-Laelia laeta
Orpetiana, Sophro-Cattleya Chamberlainiana,
and other hybrids, with Sophronitis grandiflora ;
Cattleya The Czar, C. Berthe Fournier, Wes-
tonbirt variety, and a host of other rare things
were passed in review.

" Major Holfofd takes the greatest interest in
his Orchids, and knows every plant in his col-
lection. Seeing the wonderful state of perfec-
tion to which his collection is brought, his en-
thusiasm is easy to understand.

" The famed collection of Amaryllis is about to
be plunged in leaves in a gentle bottom-heat.
Such large bulbs as are seen should produce
flowers even better than previously, if that be
possible. One bulb weighed 2Ib. 6oz., and was
but a fair sample of the best."

flowers. These are produced on erect scapes,
three to four inches high, and bear a certain
resemblance to those of P. lagenaria. They
measure about two and a quarter inches in
diameter across the petals. The sepals and
petals are oblong in shape, gracefully re-
curved, and light rosy purple in colour. The
lip is beautifully fringed, less than an inch
broad in front, and lilac, with numerous iriegu-
lar bright purple blotches, while the disc bears
five deep, slightly undulate keels The side lobes
of the lip are striped with purple toward the
base. Messrs. Sutton have had the plant three
or four years, and the pan exhibited by them
had three expanded flowers and several buds.
It is an interesting addition to the genus. R. A.
Kolp.

A NEW SPECIES OE RODGERSIA WITH

PI.VNATE LEAVES.*
In the Gardeners' Chronicle of August 23, 1902,
p. 131, Dr. A. Henry gives a synopsis of the four
species of Rodgersia then known. A fifth
species was discovered by Mr. E. H. Wilson in
June, 1904, growii:g at elevations of 9,000 to
10,000 feet, in the Yalung Valley, about 100
miles west of Tatien-lu. It was just coming

I'lG. 46. — THE KOSARV .\T LOFT's HALL, ESSE.'C.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

PLEIONE YUNNANEXSIS, ROLFE.*
A CHARMING little novelty was exhibited at
the last R.H.S. meeting, held on February 13th,
by Mes.srs. Sutton and Sons, Reading, as
'■ Orchid sp. from China." It also appeared at
the meeting of the Scientific Committee, and
received a Botanical certificate. I recognised it
as one of several species of Pleione which I had
described from dried specimens, and now that
Messrs. Sutton have sent flowers to Kew I
■find that it is Pleione yunnanensis, a species
discovered by Mr. W". Hancock, F.L.S., in the
province whose name it bears, the locality being
given as Mengtsz, in mountain pastures at 6,000
.to 7,000 feet, flowering in March. It was also
collected there by Dr. A. Henry, on grass moun-
tains at 5,500 feet. It is an elegant little plant,
like several of the Indian ones, flowering in ad-
vance of the leaves, but having rather smaller

* Pleione yunnanensis, Rolfe in Orch. Rev., 1903, p. 292.
Coelogyne (? Pleione) yunnanensis, Rolfe in Jctirn. Linn,
^oc, xxxvi.jp. 23.

into flower at the time, and it is from a very
young specimen that I have drawn up the ac-
companying description. As in the case of the
Lilac I recently described in these columns, no
seed being obtainable, the discoverer brought
away a few roots, and the plant is now growing
■ in Messrs. James Veitch and Sons' nursery at
Coombe Wood. The dried specimens before me
are between 2 and 3 feet high, the simple stems
bearing one large pinnate leaf, and an entire one
just below the inflorescence. The largest leaf,

' Roilgcrsia sambuci/olia, Hemsley ; ab. omnibus speciebus
hucusque cognitis foliis vere pinnatis g-vel ii-foliolatis
recedit.

Herba 2-3 pedalis, sparsissime arachnoideo-hirsuta. Folia
radicalia non visa ; caulina solitaria vel bina, imparipinnata,
g-vel ii-foliolata, lontje petiolata. cum petiolo communi
■ 1-2 ped. longa; foliola subsessilia, membranacea, sub-
opposila, oblongo-lanceolata, 4-6 poll, longa, 1-2 poll. lata,
acuta, basi cuneata, per totam longitudinem serrulata ;
vens subtus sat conspicujE ; petiolus basi pilis longis
arachnoideis brunneis vestitus. Inflorcscentia pubescens,
parva, terminalis, dense cymoso-paniculata. cum pedunculo
elongato circiter pedalis; pedunculus folio unico simplici
instructus. Bracteaeet bracteol^eomnino deficientes. Flons
parvi inconspicui. Sepalct 5-7, carnosa, ovata, sesquilineam
longa, subacuta. Stamina 10-14, quam sepala breviora
(immatura?). Styli 2 carnosi, stamina sequantes. Fructus
ignotus.

including the long petiole, is nearly 2 feet long,
and it is probable that under cultivation all parts
of the plant will attain larger dimensions. Some-
what unfortunately the appropriate name
pinnata has been given to another species which
has quasi-pinnate leaves, as may be seen in the
figuie accompanying Dr. Henry's description.
Ho\uever, the name given to the new species is
quite appropriate, the leaves being very similar
to those of the common Elder, as well as to those
of Sanibucus javanica. The leaflets are 9 and
11 in number respectively in the two fully-giown
leaves i-.nder observation, and they are thin,
oblong, serrated, and 4 to 6 inches long. The
only inflorescence is about 3 inches long, and
the flowers unexpanded. At present I am un-
able to say anything about its relative merits as
an ornamental plant, but it is very different from
the four previously described species. W. Boiling
Hemsley.

ROSARY AT LOFT'S HALL,
ESSEX.

The Rosary illustrated at figs. 46 and 47 forms
part of an old kitchen garden walled in on three
sides, and bounded on the fourth by an evergreen
hedge, and v,-as made and planted by Mr. George
Paul. The north wall was taken down and re-
built with panels of open lattice work, through
which the Roses can be seen from the drive up
to the house, and when festooned with Wis-
taria, which it will be in a year or two, it will
form a very pretty picture. The beds for the
Roses have been cut out on grass, and a width
of bed has been adopted which enables almost
every plant to be reached for cutting purposes
without trampling on the beds. The Roses were
planted in March last, and the photograph was
taken in June. Under the care of Mr. George
Jordan, whose successes from Hawksted at the
National Rose Society's Exhibitions are so well
known, it is needless to say the Roses did ex-
ceedingly well. The garden was planted in the
following manner; —

In the border next to the front court there
are two rows of Standard Teas to show through
trellis and a row of Dwarf Teas, edged with
border Carnations.

The corresponding border on the other side
contains masses of Provence and garden Roses,
edged with Dwarf Polyantha varieties. Each
of the four round beds has one Weeping
Wichuriana Rose and twenty dwarf yellow-
flowered plants. The two outer corner beds
are planted with rose-coloured varieties ; the
two corresponding outer corner beds with crim-
son varieties ; the two inner angled beds
with pink Roses ; and the two corresponding
inner angle beds with blush and white-flowered
varieties.

Along the herbaceous border at intervals of
10ft. Penzance Briars were used as pillars, and
the pergola was planted entirely with Roses,
so that the whole garden was encircled with
Roses.

It is not necessary to enumerate all the varie-
ties used, but of crimson varieties there were Vic-
tor Hugo, Madame Victor Verdier, Dr. Andr^,
Bruce Findlay, and Liberty. In rose colours,
Countess of Rosebery, S.M. Rodocanachi, Rev.
A. Cheale, and others. In j'ellows, Marie van
Houtte, Madame Hoste, Madame Ravary, Fran-
cisca Kruger, Madame C. Guinoisseau, etc. In
pinks, Caroline Testout, Mrs. J. Laing, Killar-
ney, and othecs. In blush and white, Frau
Karl Druschki, Viscountess Folkestone, Augus-
tine Guinoisseau, Paul's Early Blush, etc.

The eld manor house, Loft's Hall, is the seat
of Sir James Bayley, situated about four miles
from Audley End Railwa)' Station, on the Great
Eastern Railway. It is a charming old house,
with gables and old-fashioned chimney stacks,
and the gardens are on ascending slopes from

116

TFIE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 24, 1308.

the front to the back of the house. One of the
chief features of the place is its very fine fish
ponds, one of about an acre. The church,
though not seen in the picture, is to the
right-hand of the house, and, as in many old-
fashioned parks and gardens, seems a part of
the estate.

LATE DESSERT PLUMS.
Late varieties of Plums are useful for extending
the season when choice dessert fruit is available,
and are worthy of more extensive cultivation, espec-
ially in gardens where wall space can be afforded
them, for wall-trained trees undoubtedly produce
fruit of the highest flavour and best quality. With
care and attention trees planted on walls of various
aspects will furnish delicious fruits until quite late

Some varieties of Plums are much improved
in flavour when shrivelled, and should not be
gathered until this has taken place. The Plums
when gathered should be perfectly dry, and it is
most important to allow the stalks and fruit
to remain intact, otherwise many of the fruits will
decay. I usually gather my crops by cutting the
individual fruits from the tree with a knife or with
a pair of scissors. They are then very carefully
laid on cotton wool and carried to the fruit room,
and not allowed to become bruised in the process.
Wrapping each fruit separately in tissue paper has
no ad%'antage ; they should rather be laid out
thinly on paper in a cool fruit room. A sharp eye
should be kept for any fruits that are inclined to
decay ; these should be removed immediately.
Coe's Golden Drop is the leading favourite with

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during a dry autumn well into October. Guthrie's
Late Green is also a valuable late Plum of good
flavour. I have seen this variety hanging on the
trees in good condition, in the Midland counties, in
November. Braby's Greengage is much later
maturing than the old type, and is a most delicious-
variety.

The Transparent Gages are all delicious fruits,
and the trees possess a vigorous constitution.
Transparent, Golden Transparent, and Late Trans-
parent are valuable Plums, keeping in good con-
dition some time after the fruits have reached
maturity. Reine Claude Comte d'Althann, a
variety introduced from Bohemia, comes with a
good reputation as a valuable late red Plum. Up
to the present time I have not fruited this variety.

Low walls can be planted with trees trained
horizontally, which are the best for this purpose.

Young trees require to be carefully root-pruned
about every third year in order to keep them in af ruit-
ful condition. By this means coarse, strong growth
is checked, and the energies of the tree are directed
into producing fruit-bearins wood. Cordon trained
trees of the varieties named produce fine quality
fruit, and by this system of training many varieties
may be planted against one wall. The distance
between each tree should be 2 feet, the roots
should be well restricted until the trees have
arrived at a fruit-bearing age. W. H. Clarhc,
Asian Rowant, Oxon.

in the season. I have heard of some growers who
have been enabled to keep these fruits in good
condition until Christmas, but although I have
taken all the necessary precautions and have excel-
lent means of storage I have not been able to keep
them so late as Christmas by four weeks.

In many gardens room might be found for a few
late Plum trees to take the place of some of the many
Peach trees, whose fruit arrives at maturity rather
inconveniently at the same time. Walls facing west
present a most suitable aspect for the planting of
Plum trees. In some gardens Peach trees fruit
very unsatisfactorily on walls with this aspect, and
much time and labour is unprofitably expended on
these trees and valuable wall space is lost. Given
good cultivation Plum trees will yield fine crops
with much less attention than is required for
ppaches.

the majority of growers, and although of excellent
quality, whether procured from north, south, east,
or west walls, there are other varieties equally
serviceable. Angelina Burdett, classed by some
authorities amongst the Gages, is a variety ripen-
ing about the middle of September, and by allow-
ing the fruits to hang and become shrivelled the
saccharine matter is so increased as to make it a
perfect sweetmeat. Ickworth Imperatrice, although
not a " gage," remains serviceable for a long time
when treated in the same manner as the last-named.
The fruit is of medium size, roundish-oval in
shape, and of a purple colour, and when shrivelled
is rich and juicy.

Bonne Bouche Gage is of excellent flavour and
of the same type is Bryanston Gage, and Reine
Claude de Bavay, the former ripening at the end
of September, while the last-named will hang

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

HIPPEASTRUMS.
These plants resent frequent disturbance at
tlieir roots, so that whenever practicable top
dressings of soil and the liberal use of manure-
water should be afforded rather than the
repotting of the plants, but should a larger-
sized pot become absolutely necessary take
great precautions not to damage the roots. A
suitable soil consists of a mixture of firm
loam, rotten manure, leaf-mould and a liberal
quantity of sharp sand. Start them into growth
in a temperature of 65° to 70°. It is not necessary
to plunge the pots in tan or cocoa-nut fibre. Very
little water will be needed until the growth com-
mences. As the plants advance in growth admit
air to secure strong and healthy foliage. Hip-
peastrums (Amaryllis) are useful decorati\'e plants,
both for use in the mansion and in the conserva-
tory. After the flowers have faded place the
plants in the greenhouse for the purpose of com-
pleting their growth, after which dry them off
slo wly , but never allow the roots to become dust-dry,
even when dormant. When raising Hippeastrums
from seed use 60-sized pots, placing one seed in
each pot. Use a rather lighter soil than that
advised for potting, and pass the same through a
half-inch sieve. A shelf in a warm pit, near the
glass, is a suitable place for the seeds to germinate.
The seedlings should not be dried off until after
thev have flowered. C. Ruse, Munden Gardens,
Watford.
POINSETTIAS AND EUPHORBIAS FOR

USE AS CUT FLOWERS.
It is a common occurrence to find cut flow-ers
of Poinsettias and of Euphorbia Jacquiniasflora
when used for decorative purposes droop and
wither a few hours after being cut. To prevent
this it is necessary to subject the plants to
a lower temperature with less moisture, a week
or so before cutting, A temperature of 50* is all
the plants require after they have developed their
inflorescences, and the dryer the condition of the
house the better will the flowers or plants be
enabled to withstand the draughts and dry
air of dwelling rooms. Equally important is
the manner in which the flowers are handled
when being cut. To prevent bleeding, it is necessary
to have ready a pail of very hot water in which

February 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

117

to insert the stalks after cutting them the required
length and removing all unnecessary leaves. The
hot water will prevent further bleeding and will
quickly heal any wounds. A hot iron answers the
same purpose, but its manipulation is not so simple
or simultaneous as that of hot water. Various other
methods have been tried for preventing bleeding,
such as dipping the stems in] sand, sealing the
wounds with pitch or hot clay, but I regard the hot
■water plan as the simplest and safest. As decorative
.plants these subjects remain in much better con-
dition if they are placed in stands or in baskets,
but as plants they are not so adaptable for effective
use as in a cut state. When used for dinner table
decoration the stalks should be cut of the length
required, all unnecessary leaves removed, and
the same method to prevent bleeding adopted.
Euphorbia Jacquiniaeflora cannot be used for
sprays or button-holes for the reason that if only
a flower or a leaf becomes broken, the milky
substance would stain the dress, C. J. E.

KNIPHOFIAS AND THEIR
CULTURE.

(Concluded from page 101.)
HYBRID KNIPHOFIAS.
Much confusion exists in the nomenclature
of hybrid Kniphofias, and it is no uncommon
circumstance for a plant to bear half-a-dozen
names. Most of these hybrids are improve-
ments on the specific types, but several are
coarse, ungainly, badly coloured and unworthy
•of garden room. More recent hybrids have K.
Macowani, K. Burchelli, and K. citrina as
parents, and these are a great gain, being of
neat tufted habit, marked floriferousness, and
the spikes bear inflorescences that may be de-
scribed as marvels of delicate colouring and
symmetry When compared with the older
hybrids such as Star of Baden-Baden and others
■whose stamens are much exserted. No good
purpose can be served by detailed enumeration
of all known hybrids, but a selection of those
which are most showy and refined, made over
3. period of several years from a complete col-
lection, will doubtless be helpful to planters,
together with brief descriptions of their height,
habit of growth, and colour of flowers.

Chloris. — A vigorous pale green-leaved plant
€ feet in height and as much in diameter, flower-
ing in August. Spikes cylindrical, of apricot
yellow colour throughout.

Chrysantha. — A small plant 2 feet in height
and in diameter. Flowers of canary yellow
colour, the spikes tipped with green and pro-
duced in sheaves from August onwards. A
seedling from K. citrina.

Diana. — A strong grower, with towering
spikes of bottle-brush-like flowers coloured
scarlet, suffused with buff. Anthers much ex-
sierted.

Excclsa. — A fiant plant 6 feet in height, bear-
ing enormous spikes of light crimson flowers,
fading to orange colour. The spikes often have
three apices.

Golconda. — A broad-leaved, sturdy variety of
rapid growth, yields symmetrical spikes of
apricot-tinted flowers in foot-long cylinders.
Anthers slightly exserted. Very showy and free-
flowering.

Heroine. — Resembles Golconda, but with
coral-tinted anthers much exserted, giving the
inflorescence a hairy appearance.

Henry Cannell. — Plants 3 feet in height and
in diameter, bearing long inflorescences of a
uniform rich shade orange scarlet colour,
slightly yellowed at the base. A capital border
variety.

John Walcrer. — Resembles Henry Cannell,
but more coral than scarlet, and the spikes are
cone shaped.

/. Sallier. — A new hybrid of rich scarlet,
very strong and stately in habit.

John Senary. — An old-time hybrid with
loose cylindrical spikes of deep red flowers,
passing to orange, then to yellow. As nearly

flame-coloured as is possible. Flowers in
August.

Lachesis. — Pretty and refined spikes of deep
yellow flowers, the anthers of which are coral-
tinted and slightly exserted. Height, 6 feet.

Leda. — Produces cylindrical inflorescences
half the length of the spike in July and August.
Flowers coral red with orange anthers slightly
exserted. Foliage sub-prostrate and pale-green,
giving the plant the outline of an Eremurus.

Lemon Queen. — Hybrid seedling of K. citrina.
Plant neat habited, free-flowering, producing in
August cone-shaped inflorescences of a canary
yellow tint, greyish white at the base and
greenish yellow-tipped. A very choice and
showy form which, in my view, is the best of
the smaller habited plants.

Matador. — Resembles Leda, but flowers in
September. Bears cylindrical spikes of dark-
glowing crimson flowers entirely self-coloured.
Plant prostrate, spikes 6 feet in height.

Meteor. — Of straw-yellow colour, the peri-
anths lined with coral, the anthers also coral-
tinted and exserted. A good variety of the
bottle-brush type and very vigorous. Inflo-
rescences 18 inches long, in September.

Obelisk. — A noble plant 6 feet in height,
leafage broad and lustrous. Inflorescence 18
inches long, of golden yellow colour, symmetri-
cal and wonderfully clear in colour. A refined,
chastely-coloured " Star of Baden-Baden."

Ofhir. — Resembles Obelisk, but has coral-
tinted exserted stamens and perianth tubes
much distended at the throat.

R. C. Affourtit. — This is best described as a
glorified corallina. Flowers continuously
throughout summer. The inflorescences are dis-
tinctly cone-shaped with reflexing perianth
lobes, and several are produced together.

Kujus. — A selection from Lemon Queen.
Flower heads cone-shaped, canary yellow below
orange scarlet above, rarely exceeding 3 feet in
height.

Sirius. — Has attenuated inflorescences of red-
dish orange colour with scarlet anthers much
exserted. Grows 6 feet high, and generally has
one to three subsidiary spikes at the base of the
central inflorescence.

Seraph. — A compact plant 2 feet in height,
bearing cylindrical saffron-coloured inflores-
cences. Its habit is similar to that of Macow-
ani. Flowers in August.

Solfaterre. — Has quaintly coloured spikes of a
short and sturdy character, grows about 2 feet
in height and bears yellow inflorescences with
orange-coloured base and greenish tips. The
sunny side of the spike is of orange-red colour,
and the shady side greenish-yellow. Pretty and
distinct form for planting in borders.

Stella. — A tall and stately variety bearing
bronzed scapes 3 feet long, and maize-yellow
coloured inflorescences of great beaut}-. The
spikes are a long time developing, and the re-
semblance of the spikes to "cobs " of maize is
very marked till the flower lobes reflex.

Tricolor. — Is a dwarf variety of Lemon Queen,
and has quaint, bluntly cone-shaped inflo-
rescences that are coloured straw-yellow at the
base, red at the top, and canary yellow about
the middle. A neat variety whose spikes are
produced in considerable quantity in late sum-
mer.

Triumph. — A showy and popular plant
coloured deep yellow, with much exserted coral-
tinted stamens. Before the flowers expand the
yellow is very soft and pleasing, but the anthers
change the colour scheme to coral red with the
yellow showing here and there. Grows 5 feet
in height, and invariably has two or three sub-
sidiary spikes partially developed at the base
of the main one. Two new varieties, Henry A.
Dreer and R. Wilson-Ker, are of much promise.
Both varieties flowered when others of the same
type were in a condition to admit of compari-
son. The former resembles K. Macowani Bril-
liant, the latter the hybrid excelsa, but the
spikes are simple and possibly a little richer in
colour.

Another series of hybrids, marking a distinct
break from the usual run of Torch Lilies I have
reared from the following parents: — Nelsoni x
Macowani ; pauciflora x Macowani ; breviflora
X pauciflora; tricolor x Nglsoni ; modesta
X citrina ; Macowani x citrina ; modesta x
Lemon Queen x . The seedlings are pretty
border plants with refined inflorescences more
resembling K. Nelsoni and K. Macowani in
habit, but flowering from Mav onwards, start-
ing with the pauciflora hybrids, which have
quaint pendulous Lachenalia-like inflorescences
in various colours ; the others carry the display
onwards till the taller Kniphofias show spikes.

Singularly, the pauciflora ? —Macowani <r seed-
hngs are all typical K. rufa, whilst Macowani ? —
pauciflora <? seedlings are very varied and of K.
Nelsoni habit, the colours embrace all shades of
yellow and coral. Breviflora J x pauciflora f
yield pendulous flowers mainly. G. B. Malktt.

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

"The Book of Cut Flowers.' — A Complete
Guide to the Preserving, Preparing, and
Arranging of Flowers for Decorative Pur-
poses. By R. P. Brotherston. With pre-
face by J. Martin White. [Published by
T. N. Foulis.l
This work is written in simple readable style,
being thus equally acceptable either to the
employer who keeps his gardener, the gardener
himself, his assistants, or to the amateur.
Including the preface, the book contains 316
pages. It is freely illustrated, and includes in
its earlier chapters a few examples of decorative
art in the 17th century, and later, up to the 19th
century, dealing also with the methods and
styles adopted by the Japanese. From these latter
highly artistic people we may all learn some-
thing to our own advantage. Examples of free
arrangements are given, some of which are good,
notably a bowl of China Roses, and one of
Chrysanthemums, Michaelmas Daisies, etc. :
whilst some are not so good by reason of the
mixed arrangements. These are, we think, too
freely illustrated. From these latter, however,
one may learn what to avoid. Examples of suit-
able vases and glasses are illustrated, and due
prominence is given to those of glass, than
which, all points considered, there is nothing
better either from the point of effect when com-
plete, or of utility and simplicity in the arrange-
ment. One of the illustrations — that of a
bouquet — shows the flowers of a Cattleya upside
down, an error that any critical observer may
see perpetrated by inspecting the arrangements
set up in florists' windows, and even in our
leading exhibitions. By carefully inspecting
some of the illustrations one may see the evil
of overcrowding clearly defined ; also the bad
effects of bringing together flowers and foliage
of incongruous detail, showing a want of
harmony. Simplicity in the arrangement of cut
flowers prevails more perhaps at the present day
than it has ever done. Of this fact scarcely
enough is made in the illustrations.

The text embraces floral arrangements in the
widest sense, both for home uses and in
churches. In the retrospect, note is made of
the " decking of chimnies with moss, flowers,
and pot-plants in 1600." The author also states
that " Flower services in church for children
were instituted by the Rev. Mr. Whitmill, who
held the first in 1853." This commendable
practice does not appear to have been generally
adopted until later years, but it is now a
frequent custom. When treating of the relative
value of flowers (chap. 2) the author does well
in commending those of a so-termed commoner
nature. He says : " Common flowers, however,
possess a beauty of their own, and it is con-
ceivable that the person who has the capacity
to display common flowers to advantage places
them on a plane equal with flowers intrinsically
of more value, but arranged less artistically.
Moreover, it is well to disabuse our minds of

118

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 24, 1906.

ihe feeling that the exotic vegetation of our hot-
houses is merely, on account of its rarity, to be
preferred to fiowers that are hardy in our
climate." He could not have written truer
words than these. Would that some of our
gardeners, and others too, would place more
value on " common flowers," and less upon the
choicer exotics.

Upon the subject of fashion the author adds
in pertinent words, " Unlike the Chinese and
the Japanese, whose floral tastes reached,
centuries ago, a high development, which has
never since changed, ours is constantly in a
state of flux." Extravagances are justly con-
demned, in support of which the methods
adopted by the Japanese are quoted. Warning
is given against the too free use of flowers that
emit a fragrance, such as Liliums, for however
agreeable they may be in the open air they are
not in rooms or apartments so commendable.
The practical experience of the author is ex-
emplified in his notes upon the time of
gathering flowers, cutting whilst still young,
placing in water before packing, preparing
for large supplies, etc., and packing for
transit. The use of waxed paper for packing,
however, does not appear to have been noted.
The decorations of rooms, environment, colours
of paper, and detailed ornamentations are dwelt
upon in a common sense manner. One recom-
mendation we cannot, however, agree with, viz.,
to first place the flowers in a vase, then add the
foliage afterwards. After years of experience
we prefer the opposite method both for economy
and effect. Choice of colours is treated upon
in a practical and suggestive manner, but upon
this point there will always be some divergence
of opinion. Upon such adjuncts as " coloured
silks, chiffons and be-nbboned tables," the
remarks are pertinent, and rightly so, " not
callin? for remark here."

Church decorations are separately treated
upon in a short but comprehensive chapter.
Personal adornment is considered in a similar
fashion. Speaking of bouquets, the author says
quite correctly : " The bouquet of the florist is so
entirely artificial that all would hail with plea-
sure a return to the simple posy or nosegay."
In like manner the decorations of graves, the
uses of wreaths, etc., are described in a rational
way. Chapters are devoted also to suitable
flowers such as annuals, biennials, and hardy
perennials, tuberous-rooted plants, etc. The
uses of Orchids are treated upon ; so also
are everlasting flowers and grasses. Japanese
methods are considered in detail, and this
chapter affords some interesting reading.
Literature dealing with floral decorations con-
cludes what may be fairly described as a well
considered and carefully written work, which
may be confidently recommended as an addition
to a gardener's library. The book can be ob-
tained from our publishing department.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Millonia vexillaria grows rapidly at the
present season, and the young roots are very
active. Those plants that were repotted into
small pots last August should now be shifted
into pots of a larger size. When repotting do
not disturb the roots or the compost more than
is unavoidable. Afford plenty of drainage
materials and a shallow compost which should
consist of one half sphagnum-moss, one quarter
fibrous peat, and one quarter leaf soil, mixing
with the compost some small crocks and coarse
sand. Place plenty of living heads of moss on
the surface of the compost, and subsequently
afford enough water to keep these in a growing
condition. Stand the plants well up to the light
at the cooler part of the intermediate house,
and where plenty of fresh air can be afforded
when practicable. If kept for long together in
a close atmosphere, the leaves are apt to decay
at their points and the plants become unsightly.
Black spot will sometimes appear on the young
leaves if the plants are wet and the atmospheric

temperature of the house falls a few degrees
below the average. Examine the young growths
several times each week, as occasionally some of
the leaves sticK together so firmly as to cneck
the youngest leaves and cause them to crinkle.
These should be liberated by passing a thin
piece of smooth wood or the handle of a bud-
ding knife between them, and at the same time
caielully liberate any flower spikes that may
have become fixed in the axils of the leaves.
These cultural remarks apply also to M. Bleuana
and its distinct variety — nobilor. M. Endresii
having passed out of flower should be kept
rather on the dry side until growth has re-com-
menced. M. Phalaenopsis, now growing freely,
should be well supplied with water at the root.
A moderately light position near to the roof
glass of the Mexican house will suit its require-
ments admirably. Unlike its congeneric species,
M. vexillaria, it prefers a small space to root
into, and the plant may be repotted now if re-
potting is found to be necessary.

Odontoglossums. — In the cool house there are
many plants of O. crispum and various other
kinds that are now producing their flower spikes.
These should be tied, or looped up to neat
sticks. It is not advisable to tie them up
straight, but to arrange them so that when in
bloom the spines will have an arching appear-
ance. Slugs are sometimes troublesome at this
season, and valuable plants of rare species and
hybrids should have their young succulent
spikes protected by a ring of dry cotton wool.
Some of the smaller plants may be suspended
to the rafters of the house, and large specimen
plants may be elevated on inverted pots that are
standing in pans of water. These latter pre-
cautions are sometimes of little use if slugs
have been introduced with the sphagnum-moss
used for potting, as they are often found lurking
in the compost for several months after the
plants have been repotted or top-dressed. No
trouble should be spared to banish these pests
from the house ; baits of potato, young lettuce
leaves, cabbage leaves, etc., are always useful
for this purnose. The same remarks are appli-
cable to such species as Oncidium macranthum,
O lamelligerum, O. serratum, O. Loxense, O.
monachicum, O. tetracopis, O. zebrinum, and
others of that section. Nearly all of these
plants are now showing new roots, and if slugs
are about they will soon be destroyed if not
carefully protected. Any of these Oncidiunis
that require to be repotted should be attended
to at once. They prefer rather large pots for
their roots to ramble in, and they will root
freely in a compost of peat and sphagnum-moss
in equal parts, adding a little leaf soil and some
broken crocks. Those plants that have their
flower spikes already well advanced should not
be disturbed by repotting, but if the old compost
has become sour and decomposed it may be
carefully picked out down to the drainage, and
fresh material substituted for it. Stand the
plants in the coolest part of the Odontoglossum
house, and where the atmosphere is very moist.
Syringe well between the pots several times each
day when the weather is bright and warm.
They all delight in a free circulation of air at
all times. Oncidium Marshallianum is now
sending forth both roots and strong flower
spikes. This plant should be grown in the same
house, but if possible it should be placed in a
drier position, though plenty of root moisture
is necessary until the flowers expand, when the
quantity should be considerably reduced.
Plants of O. varicosum that have just passed
out of bloom should be placed alongside the
last-named species ; they will require but limited
supplies of water at the root until growth
recommences. O. ampliatum majus will now
be sending up flower spikes, and the plants
'should be placed in a shady part of the warm
house, and water afforded often enough to keep
the rocts moist. Plants of O. Cavendishianura
that have their spikes well advanced should also
be placed in the East Indian house until the
flowers open, when they may be returned to the
intermediate house.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. CromwI' i.l, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Palms always take a leading part as decora-
tive subjects. Any plants that require to be
repotted should now be attended to. If
treated skilfully, Palms may be kept of a useful
size for many years without being disturbed at

the roots by repotting, provided the drainage is-
kept in good order. The common error made Jii
the cultivation of these plants is that of over-
potting. As a rule Palms grow under ordinary-
circumstances so easily that one is apt to treat
them carelessly in the matter of affording water ;
being free rooting subjects there is little left in
the pots but roots after they have occupied the
puts for some time. Any inattention to supply
a sufficient amount of water to a plant under
such conditions would cause a check and the
leaves to assume a yellow and sickly appear-
ance, thus destroying the health of the plant. A.
good compost that will last for a long period is
one composed of good fibrous loam three parts,
peat or good leaf soil one part, some coarse
bone meal, and coarse sand. The best fertiliser-
for Palms I find to be liquid manure and soot ,
water, and occasionally nitrate of soda at the
strength of 2 oz. to a gallon of water. Spray
the plants once a week witn a solution of soft
soap and nicotine to keep them free from scale
insects.

Hanging Baskets, containing Asparagus
Sprengeri and other varieties of Asparagus, will
need to have the material in which the plants
are growing renewed. If it is necessary to in-
crease the stock this can be done by division.
By this early attention the baskets will become
furnished with young growing shoots early in
the season. A few ripe seeds of A. Sprengeri
may be sown, and any young plants raised from
last year's sowing will, if put in baskets, make
very useful material for cutting from in the-
autumn and winter months. The durability c-f
the fronds when cut is a sufficient reason for'
growing this plant in large quantities. The
baskets should be lined with moss to give them
a neat appearance. Asparagus deflexus and A.
decumbens are two very useful varieties in addi-
tion to that named above. A humid atmosphere,
free use of the syringe to keep red spider in
check, a very porous compost for the roots, and
liberal feeding, are details necessary to success.

General Remarks. — Take notice of your plants
from day to day. Keep in mind the treatment
to which you have subjected them ; note the
slightest change in their appearance, and the-
cause of the same. \o\x will then have made a
start in the right direction, for the man who
errs and recognises the true cause of his failure
has learned something, but he who attributes
his failure to the wrong cause has not. V>y
constant observation one may soon learn to
judge a plant by its appearance, and after a time'
become sufficiently expert to be able to tell at
a glance to what treatment a plant has been
subjected, whether too warm or too cold, too.
wet or too dry, or just right, and be guided
accordingly. Observe the appearance of plants
in perfect' health, strive to keep them in this
condition, and never be satisfied until you can
do so. Persevere and you will achieve success
in the end.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BlKKlNsilAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. SirCHAS.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Plum Trees in Pots. — It is not convenient to
every grower to have one or two houses entirely
set apart for the cultivation of permanent trees
planted in borders. Therefore a few early
fruiting varieties in pots may be brought on-
gradually in any unhealed structure, such as
the latest Peach-house, if frost can be excluded.
The present is a good time to introduce a few
trees which will yield ripe fruits before there
are any ripe out of doors. Plenty of air must
be admitted during the day and night on all
favourable occasions. When the trees are in
flower the blooms will need to be pollinated'
every day by means of a camel's-hair brush or
rabbit's tail until the small fruits are seen to-
have formed. Syringing should afterwards be
recommenced and carried out twice each day.
If any aphis are seen notwithstanding these
syringings, the most effectual method to employ
against them is that of vaporising with the XL-
all com.pound. The trees should not be allowed'
to become dry at their roots at any time. When
the "stoning" period is past, the atmospheric
temperatur? of the house may be increasrd with
safety, and the trees be given a weak application
of liquid manure twice each week. A few
varieties specially adapted for pot culture aro
Purple Gage, Transparent Gage, Washington,
Bryanston Gage, Coe's Golden Drop, and
Jefferson.

In order to force Plums in pots successfully

Febeuauy 24, ICOO.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

119

it is important to have the trees well established
beforehand.

Queen Pineapples. — If a batch of suckers were
rooted last summer, preparations should now
be made lor afiuriJing them a shift into lOm. or
12in. pots, according to the extent each plant
is furnished with roots. The compost most
suitable to promote the growth of these plants
is one of good turfy loam with the line soil
riddled out of it, adding about 31b. of half-inch
bones and a liberal quantity of soot to each
barrowload of soil. If a little charcoal be bro-
ken up and mixed with the soil it will be all
the better. Use clean pots, and provide them
with perfect means of drainage. Make the soil
firm with the rammer as the work of potting
proceeds. A hot-bed should be in readiness
for receiving the plants, the hot-bed being of
the temperature of 813 to 90 degrees. Now that
the sun-heat is becoming stronger and the days
are lengthening, attention must be given to
plants that require to be repotted, so that they
may have a full season of growth. They will
not require much water at their roots for some
time after being disturbed and until the roots
get established in the new compost. Use the
syringe freely amongst the plants.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the liarl of Plymouth,
St. Kalian's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Dahlias. — For producing autumn effect in the
borders, or for massing in isolated beds, the
Dahlias — especially some varieties of the Cactus
and pompon sections — are almost indispensable.
Combining stateliness of growth with a wealth
and beauty of exquisitely varied colour, they
never fail to attract attention in the brightest of
gardens. Easily propagated, there is little real
difficulty in their culture, as unlike many of our
best flowering phints, the Dahlia enjoys a remark-
able iiunuinity Irum disease of any sort. Neither
mildew nor, in tact, any of the fungus scourges
appears to affect it. it is true that in common
■with most herbaceous plants it is liable to suffer
from attacks of snails and slugs, and also from
earwigs, which ruin the growing points of the
young shouts, and later attack the flower buds,
but these excepted, the plant, practically speak-
ing, is e.xempt Irum enemies. As the stem and
growths of the Dahlia are succulent and brittle,
precautions to prevent their being broken by
violent winds must be taken — conjointly with
proper staking — by growing them in sheltered
positions. In the herbaceous borders, shelter to
a great extent exists always, but in selecting the
beds in which they are going to be grown by
themselves it is impoitant that the matter be
borne in mind. The ground should be prepared
at once. The position they are to occupy in the
border should be determined, and holes 18 inches
deep dug out according to the number it is
intended to plant. Manure should be placed at the
bottom and the hole refilled, taking care to keep
the manure sufficiently deep to allow of the future
planting being done, without the roots at once
coming into actual contact with it. Prior to re-
filling the holes, strong stakes should be placed
in position in the centre of each, so that when
planting time arrives there should be nothing
to prevent the work being done easily and expe-
ditiously. The distance to be allowed between
the holes will depend upon the variety of Dahlia
it is intended to use in the particular position, but
let each plant have ample room to develop. Beds,
or ground that will be devoted entirely to Dahlias,
should be trenched through, and if the soil is
poor let a liberal amount of manure be aaaed.
In the back of herbaceous borders, and in large
beds by themselves, the best of the bedding
varieties in the Cactus section are effective.
To furnish the fronts of borders, or small beds,
varieties of the dwarf pon.'pon section are
especially adapted. Of bedding varieties in the
Cactus section the following are amongst the
best : Coronation, Floradora, the Queen, Bri-
tannia, Charm, Eva, Florence M. Stredwick, J.
H. Jackson, Harbour Lights, Mabel Tulloch,
Mary, Mrs. Ed. Mawley, Mrs. Winstanley,
Sirius, and Vivia ; and in the pompon section :
I'iarly Sunrise, Nerissa, Bacchus, Buttercup,
Darkest of All, Guiding Star, and Phcebe.

Propagation. — The tubers should now be re-
movetii from their winter quarters, and placed in
a mild bottom heat, covering them with loose
leaf-mould but leaving the crowns exposed.
Gentle syringing overhead to induce growth
is all the moisture requisite. In the course of a

week or so, which is q-'ite early enough, there
will be a number of growths ready from which
to make cuttings. These should be taken with
a small portion of the tuber attached, and
inserted singly in sandy soil in small pots, and
placed in bottom heat to make roots. When
rooted they should be rapidly hardened off as
far as atmospheric temperature is concerned.
The young plants should not be left too long
in the small pots in which they were " struck,"
but as soon as they appear to be rooting freely, let
them be transferred to pots 5 inches in diameter,
using a compost consisting of two parts loam and
one part leaf-mould. In these pots they should, if
practicable, be again plunged over a slight
bottom heat, but in a cool atmosphere. By the
beginning of May they will be ready for remov-
ing to cold frames, where every attention must
be given to them in respect to ventilation and
watering, and care taken to protect them from
injury by late frosts.

The proper time to plant them out will depend
upon the locality, but it is never wise to under-
take this until the weather is warm enough to
allow the plants to continue growing without the
risk of a check. Dahlias from cuttings are much
to be preferred to plants obtained by dividing
up the old tubers, as they are not only better
plants, but they have also the advantage that
in the early summer when in pots they require
much less room than the others.

Raising Seedlings. — This mode of propagation
is only to be recommended for obtaining new
varieties, and not for ordinary garden-decora-
tion. If the seed is sown at the present time
the seedlings will prow freely and quickly, and
form good flowering plants by the autumn.
The seed can be sown in shallow boxes or pans
in ordinary light compost, covering them merely
with a sprinkling of fine soil, and placed in
heat. When the plants are up, they must be
potted carefully into small pots and kept near
to the glass. Their after care is similar to that
already described for plants grown from cut-
tings.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Susses.

Peach and Nectarine Trees. — The principal
point in training the peach is to obtain an equal
distribution of vigour amongst all the branches,
so that there will be an equal flow of sap over
all the tree. -Assuming the trees were partially
pruned late last summer, very little cutting will
be required at the present time beyond shorten-
ing some of the long branches and cutting weak
ones out or to a fruit bud at the base. As much
old wood as can be spared should be taken away,
as Peach trees bear on shoots made last year.
Nail up the centre branch perfectly straight,
using soft twine for this and other large bran-
ches. Train the two bottom branches right and
left nearly horizontally, and let the others radi-
ate at their different angles until a perfect fan-
shape is obtained. The shoots should not be
placed closer together than four to six inches.
One of the essential points in Peach-growing
is to allow plenty of room for the young
growths that they may be enabled to mature
thoroughly. Of young maiden trees, the shoots
need to be pruned back half their length.
Shoots will get up the wall soon enough, and
if these are allowed to do so prematurely the
tree will be ruined, it being essential to have
a good base. Do not allow such trees to ripen
any fruits during the first season after planting.
Established trees that were lifted early in the
autumn are of a different nature, and may bear
a moderate crop ; but should the tree show any
signs of debility after starting into active growth
do not neglect to remove the fruits. Assuming
the walls have been given the necessary clean-
sing, the trees, after pruning and training has
been done, should be sprayed with petroleum
emulsion, the fumes of which will be effective
in helping to prevent an attack of aphis when
the trees are in blossom. Clear the surface of
the ground of all rubbish ;;nd make it of tidy
appearance. The following varieties of Peaches
generally succeed well and ripen over a long
period : — Waterloo, Amsden June, Hale's Early,
Early Alfred, Early Silver, Noblesse, Royal
George, Barrington, Sea Eagle, and Dymond.
Nectarines : Lord Napier, Cardinal, Early
Rivers, Victoria, and Pine Apple. The protec-
tion afforded these trees in spring varies in
different localities. I do not advise the use of

heavy coverings at any time ; the coverings,
whatever they may be, should not be of a dark,
permanent nature, such as spruce branches.
Have some means or other in readiness to pro-
tect the bloom at the right moment.

Slocks for Fruit Trees. — Let these be cut back
for grafting, and retard scions by placing them
in ashes under a north wall.

Affording 5/a*c/.— Newly-planted trees that
require support should be attended to at once,
or the prevailing winds of March may sway
them about and hinder root action.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, VVelbeck Abbey, Notts.
Parsnips. — The end of the present month will-
be a good time to sow the main crop of Parsnips.
The seeds require a long time m which to germi-
nate, but are quite hardy, and a moderate frost
seems to have but very little effect on the young
plants. Parsnips need deep soil in order that
the roots may penetrate easily and continue
straight. If obstructions are present through
the ground being untrenched, the crop will be
materially lessened and forked growths will
result. Select a piece of fairly rich ground, but
do not add any green manure ; merely make an
application of wood ashes or of refuse from the
burning heap which is a common feature in
most gardens. The soil should be trenched to
the depth of 3 feet, and the mould finely broken
up. Sow the seeds in drills at distances of
2 feet apart, and later on the seedlings may be
thinned out to 1 foot apart in the lines. It is
seldoin that the finest exhibition Parsnips can
be had from the ordinary method of culture
because of the little obstructions in the way of
small stones, etc. For such a purpose it is
necessary to make holes with an iron bar quite
a foot deeper than you expect the root to grow.
These holes may be made 6 inches wide and
filled in with finely sifted soil, adding a little
soot to help to prevent insect attacks. Then the
seed can be sown, and later the seedings be
thinned out to one plant in each hole. These
long roots are often the subject of comment
when seen at exhibitions, and the length of
the tap root is objected to, but in defence of
them it may be said that one straight root affords,
far finer texture of flesh than is obtained from an
accumulation of several : therefore the quality of
the edible part is higher in the long roots. For
shallow soils where no trenching is possible,
there is a stump rooted variety of Parsnip on
the market which should be sown, but otherwise
Hollow Crown is a fine main crop variety. Sut-
ton's Tender and True, and Dobbie's Selected
are improvements because of their whiter skins,
and wfiich are also much smoother.

Main Crop Potatos. — Preparations should now
be made for this, the most important crop of
the kitchen garden. Although at present it is.
too early to plant by three weeks, the soil should
be fully prepared by being dug over, and as far
as possible exposed to the morning frosts.
Assuming that the ground was trenched in the
autumn, the soil should now be thoroughly
broken over with the fork, incorporating with it
at the same time a dressing of lime or wood
ashes to sweeten the sur.,ice, and increase the
weight and table quality of the crop. Make po-
attempt to prepare the soil in wet weather, but
wait until the return of a, drying wind and sun-
shine. The seed tubers should now be finally
prepared by having their sprouts reduced to one,.
or at the most two, on each tuber.

Earlier Potatos. — The advancing crops in
frames or in pots will require to be top-dressed
or earthed-up when they have reached the
height of 9 inches, and as the sun advances in
power so must more air be admitted to the
frame, otherwise the haulm will soon become
leggy and tumble over.

Peas. — Such varieties as Early Giant, Duke
of Albany, and Alderman may now be freelv
sown. When shelled these varieties yield k
splendid return, and are of the best quality
when cooked. Another variety, which is a pro-
digious cropper — Senator, a variety raised by
Messrs. Webb at Wordsley — is worthy of much
attention, whilst Edwin Beckett and the new one
named Quite Content should not be overlooked
by cultivators for exhibition.

French Beans. — A sowing should be made in
small pots with a view to planting them in
frames when the Potato crop is cleared out later
on.

120

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[February 24, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
/or naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent US early in the week as possible, aiid duly
signed by the -writer. 1/ desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

special Notice to Correspondents.— T/zc Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. Tlu: Editor docs not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will bcglad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of fcmarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c. ; but he
cnnitot be rcs'pSniible for loss or injury.

tif\\spapers.-^(*drycspondenis sending newspapers sltould be
caicjul to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News- — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor eo-fly intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters zvhich it is desirable
to bring iindcr the notice of liarttculturtsts.

APPOINTMENTS FOR MARCH.

THURSDAY,

Mar.

1

SATURDAY,

Mar.

3

TUESDAY,

Mar.

6

SATURDAY,

Mar.

10

MONDAY,

Mar.

12

THURSDAY,

Mar.

!■;

TUESDAY,

Mar.

20

WEDNESDAY,

Mar.

21

THURSDAY,

Mar.

22

•WEDNESDAY,

Mar.

28

THURSDAY,

Mar.

2q

FRIDAY,

Mar.

10

SATURDAY,

Mar.

31

Linnean Soc. meet.

{Ann. meet. Wakefield Paston Soc.
Soc. Franf. d'Hort. de Londres
meet.
German Gard. Soc. meet.
/Roy. Hort. Soc. Coms. meet.

Nat. Amateur Gard. Assoc, meet.
J Complimentary Dinner to Mr. W.
Marshall, at Hotel Windsor,
\ Westminster.
Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.
Ann. meet. Unit. Hort. Ben. &
Prov. Soc, 8 p.m., at the Roy.
Hort. Hall, Westminster.
Linnean Soc. meet.
Roy. Hort. Soc. Coms. meet.
( Roy. Bot. Soc. Show, Regent's
1 Park.

( Roy. Hort. Soc. Exh. of Colonial-
1 grown fruit (3 days).
( Liverpool Spring Hort. Show (2
I days).
Torquay Gard. Soc. Show.
Roy. Bot. Soc. meet.
Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 402°.
Actual Temperatures: —

London. — Wednesday, Feb. 21 (6p.m.); Max. 45°; Min.
30°.
Gaideneis' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday Feb. 22 (10
a.m.): Bar., 30.1; Temp., 41°; Weather— Fziv,
with occasional sunshine.
Provinces. — Wednesday, Feb. 21(6 p.m.): Mas. 45°
• Ireland, South ; Min. 37° N.E. Scotland.

SALES.

MONDAY NEXT—

Herbaceous plants. Hardy bulbs. Lilies, Roses, Azaleas,
&c., at 67 and 6S, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY NEXT—

Hardy border and herbaceous plants, Lilies, Begonias,
tS:c., at 12 : Roses, Azaleas, ^c, at i and 3, at 67 and 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris.
Sale of Roses, Azaleas, Liliums, &c., at Stevens' Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden, London.

THURSDAY NEXT—

Double-fronted Freehold House and Building Land, Six
Greenhouses, Stock, Household Furniture, &c., in lots
at the Exotic Nurseries, Hermitage Road, Coalville,
Leicestershire, at 2, by Protheroe & Morris and H. M.
Bertenshaw.

FRIDAY NEXT—

Hardy border plants and perennials, Lilies, Roses,
Azaleas, ike, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe
& Morris, at 12.

Imported and Established Orchids, at 67 & 63, Cheap-
side, E.C., by Protheroe tk Morris, at 12.45.

We are frequently asked for in-

The Law formation concernin,tr the so-
of Inherit- it j nr 1 i- , , . , .

a-ce. called JNIendelian law, which is

so important as regards the
practice of cross-breeding, whether of ani-
mals or of plants. The subject is too intricate
for satisfactory treatment in the course of an
article, consequently for the fullest details
we must refer the enquirer to Mr. Bateson's
Principles of Heredity, published by C. J.
Clay and Sons. Less easily obtained is Mr.
Bateson's address before the Cambridge
meeting of the British Association (Zoologi-

cal Section), 1904. An admirable summary,
but one we fear even more difificult to procure,
is contained in a lecture delivered by Mr.
C. C. Hurst before the Leicester Literary
and Philosophical SoL-iety in 1904. A transla-
tion by Mr. Druery of Mendel's original paper
was printed in the Journal of the Royal Hor-
ticultural Society, and is incorporated with
I\Ir. Bateson's volume just mentioned.

The terminology and the algebraical for-
niulse made use of by some writers are, of
course, essential to the student, but they
prove embarrassing to the reader who only
desires to secure a grasp of the general prin-
ciples involved.

Gardeners and hybridists are familiar
with plants that breed " true," i.e., in
which a particular character, or char-
acters, becomes " fixed," and with others
which cannot be depended on to breed true,
but yield a mixed offspring. Whether
apparently " true " or " mixed," the off-
spring always contain, in varying de-
gree, certain features or characters derived
from their parents. These " characters " are
either apparent — that is, "dominant" — or
latent — that is to say "recessive." Where
they are dominant we get, so far as those par-
ticular characters are concerned, " thorough-
breds " or pure offspring. Where they are
mixed we get the heretofore " recessive " or
latent characters manifesting themselves in
varying degree. This predominance of certain
characters and this latency of others are
found, when carefully investigated, to mani-
fest themselves in accordance witli certain
definite numerical proportions, such as
3:1. Each "gamete" — that is to say,
each individual plant or animal — is, as
we have said, made up of certain char-
acteristics which are associated together,
but which, whilst on the one hand they
never truly blend or mix any more than
cards do when shuffled, yet on the other
hand frequently beconie more or less dis-
sociated or " segregated," and thus give
rise to variations or sports. The " gamete,"
according to Mendelian views, is made up of
pairs of contrasted characters ; for instance,
in the case of the Pea, of smooth or wrinkled
seeds, as well as of many other similar con-
trasts. Of these contrasted characters one is
found, as we have said, to be numerically
dominant — the other recessive. If the " ga-
mete " is pure the plants will breed true. If
the " gamete " is impure or mixed, the domi-
nance is upset and the offspring becomes
varied. It is not only the seeds that vary in
this way, but many other parts of the plant
are seen to present contrasted characters
which behave in like manner. To avoid com-
plication, however, one pair of characters is
studied at a time, though it is obvious that
to get at trustworthy results all must eventu-
ally be studied and compared one with the
other in the same way, so as to get at the
sum total of resemblances or differences.

The occasional appearance of purple Sweet
Peas when two white-flowered varieties have
been crossed, or of purple-flowered Stocks
with hoary leaves, raised from plants with
white and cream-coloured flowers and gla-
brous leaves, as explained by Mr. Bateson, is
due to reversion.

Reversion itself is described as a " simple
and orderly phenomenon," the explanation of
which as given is, however, too abstruse 10
be made readily intelligible in this place. It
will be interesting to Sweet Pea raisers to
know that not only are there colour-varia-
tions in the flower, but also co-relative dif-

ferences in the size and shape of the pollen-
grains, which may account for some of the
phenomena witnessed in the breeding of
Sweet Peas.

Other workers have attacked the solution of
these problems from different quarters — Mr.
Bateson himself, by practical experiments
with poultry and with insects, as well as with
Primroses and other flowers. Mr. Hurst has
investigated the phenomena in rabbits and
mice as well as in Orchids. Quite lately he
has communicated to the Royal Society a
paper in which he shows, from an examina-
tion of the Stud Book, that the inheritance of
coat-colour in thoroughbred horses is in ac-
cordance with Mendelian principles. The Stud
Book contains fairly complete records of the
age, colour, sex and parentage of British
thoroughbreds from the earliest accounts
down to the end of 1904. A critical examina-
tion of these records shows that bay and
brown colours are " dominant " and chest-
nut " recessive." Thus from the union of
several pure bay and brown sires with
numerous' chestnut mares, 370 foals were pro-
duced, all of which were bays or browns.
The sires were themselves, in all but one in-
stance, the offspring of bay or brown parents
or grandparents. In other cases, wherein
the bay or brown sires were " irupure "
(that is, less markedly dominant as to
inheritance of colour), and were mated with
chestnut mares, then the offspring numbered
702 foals, of which 355 were bays and 347
chestnuts.

The general results go to show that, con-
trary to the opinion of Prof. Pearson, the in-
heritance of particular colours in horses is
subject to definite numerical laws, as pointed
out originally by Mendel in the case of Peas.

'I'he matters treated of are naturally of
great importance to breeders and raisers, so
that we look forward with much interest to
the publication of the Orchid Stud Book,
which cannot fail to throw light on this ob-
scure subject, and to suggest further matters
for enquiry. The subject will also naturally
come under consideration at the Hybridisa-
tion Conference on July 3oth-3ist.

Horticultural Exhibitions at Birming-
ham.— Many of our readers are aware that several
important exhibitions, including those of the Mid-
land Daffodil and Carnation Societies, are held each
year in the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, Bir-
mingham. With a view to the promoting of
further e.xhibitions in those gardens, which are
admirably suited for such a purpose, the com-
mittee of the Birmingham Botanical and Horti-
cultural Society has sent a circular to exhibitors
and prominent horticulturists in the Midland Coun-
ties asking for their support. We make the fol-
lowing extracts from the circular : —

"Dear Sir, — Owing to the increased interest
now shown in the pursuit of gardening in the
Midland Counties, the Birmingham Botanical and
Horticultural Society has considered a proposal
to hold monthly flower shows in the Botanical
Gardens, Edgbaston, during the Summer months.
The Daffodil and Auricula Shows, held at the
Gardens in April, the Carnation Show in August,
and the exhibition of Border Chrysanthemums
and other Autumn flowers, held under the auspices
of the Gardeners' Mutual Improvement Associa-
tion, are well supported by exhibitors and visitors.
It is now proposed (as an experiment) to hold two
extra Shows during the coming Summer — one in
June and the other in July. It is proposed to
award medals to meritorious exliibits, and certifi-
cates to individual plants, etc., of superior excel-
lence. A meeting to consider the project and to
elect representatives of intending exhibitors and
supporters to serve on a sub-committee to deal
with the arrangements, fix dates of S.hows, etc.,

Fedruasy -M, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

121

\vill be held at the Botanical Gardens, Edgbastcn,
on Thursday, March i, at 5.30 p.m. Neville
Chamberlain, Esq. (hon. treasurer of the society),
in the chair. — Thos. Humphreys and W. H.
WiiiTELocK, hon. sees."

We trust that the movement will meet with
support, and that Birmingham may become a
centre of greatly increased horticultural activity.

"Flora and Sylva." — The third volume of
this elegant publication is before us, and in paper,
typography, and illustrations is equal to its pre-
decessors, which is about as high praise as can be
bestowed. The present volume has a painful
significance, inasmuch as it contains some of the
last — and, we may add, some of the best — work of
the late H. G. Moon. The volume is dedicated
to his memory, and there is at p. 346 an appre-
ciative account of his life and works. The figure
at p. 62, taken from Loudon's Arboretum, p.
2,075, is by some mischance stated to represent
the " Buckland Yew, recently destroyed." The
Buckland Yew is, or was till lately, flourishing
exceedingly in spite of its transportation. In a
notice prefi.\ed to the December number we are
informed that Flora and Svlva will henceforth be
published in the form of a yearly volume.

The President of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. — Sir Trevor Lawrence com-
pletes this month the 21st year of his presidency of
the Royal Horticultural Society. The council has
resolved to have his portrait painted to place in
the society's new building, and also to establish in
perpetuity a large gold medal to be called the
" Lavvrencean Medal," to be awarded to exhibits
of a specially deserving character at the society's
meetings, Times.

Surveyors- Institution. — The next ordi-
nary general meeting will be held in the Lecture
Hall of the Institution on Monday, February 26,
igo6, at 8 p.m., when a paper by the late Mr.
John Leaning, entitled " The Assimilation of the
Practice of Quantity Surveyors," will be read by
Mr. H. J. Leaning (Fellow).

Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund. — A con-
cert under the patronage of Lord and Lady Belper
was held in the Kingston-on-Soar Reading Room
on Friday, i6thinst., in aid of this e.xcellent charity.
The Rector, the Rev. H. B. Hamilton, occupied
the chair, and a large and appreciative company
was present. The concert resulted in a pro&t
of £6 IDS.

Garden Pots. — We have received from the
ScREMEKSTON CoAL Co., LTD.," Berwick-on-
Tweed, two flower pots, with an indication of
t"he size of each stamped into the clay at the
base. This information may be of value in
some gardens, for it can hardly be denied that,
owing to the practice of describing pots as of
so many inches in diameter at one time, and at
other times as of -so many to the "cast," some
confusion has arisen. It may be remarked that
the diameter of the pot before us marked 3^
inches is at least one-eighth of an inch in excess
of the marked measurement, and the other
marked 3 inches is equally above the standard.
The pots are exceedingly well made, and of good
material, their smooth finish being very praise-
worthy. The base is slightly hollowed and
grooved.

Name, Name; — Parkinson seems to have had
a poor opinion of the honesty of the nurseryman
of his day. Speaking in the Paradisus of the
"Arch-Duke Cherrie" he says, "Scarce one of
twentie of our Nurserie men doe sell the right but
give one for another ; for it is an inherent qualitie
almost hereditarie with most of them to sell any
man an ordinary fruit for whatsoever fruit he
shall aske for : so little are they to be trusted. . . .
The true Gascoign Cherry is known but to a few ;
for our Nurserymen do so change the names
of most fruits they sell, that they deliver but very
few true names to any." We are happy to think

that there has been a great improvement in this
respect, as nowadays no nurseryman with a reputa-
tion to lose would resort wilfully to such practices.

The Royal Horticultural Society's
Committees. — Not many changes in the per-
sonnel of these bodies is seen in the lists of mem-
bership recently issued. The Council's policy now
seems to be to retain, so far as possible, the ex-
perience of the old and efficient members. The
Fruit Committee, the senior body, loses Sir
Albert Rollit and Mr. Balderson as vice-
chairmen, Mr. Joseph Cheal being the only new
appointment to that position. New members are
Mr. Allan, Hillingdon Court Gardens, Uxbridge ;
Mr. W. Barnes, Bearwood, Wokingham; Mr. J.
Davis, Glebelands Gardens, Woodford ; Mr. R.
Lye, Sydmonton Court Gardens, Newbury ; Mr.
Jas. Vert, The Gardens, Audley End, Essex ;
and Mr. Charles Nix, Tilgate, Crawley. The
first four, as will be seen, are gardeners, making
of gardeners and ex-gardeners no fewer than 30, a
material preponderance. The total membership
now is 42, as is also that of the Floral Committee,
the new members of which body are three — Mr. Jas.
Douglas, V.M.H., Great Bookham, transferred
from the Orchid Committee ; Mr. A. R. Goodwin,
Kidderminster ; and Mr. R. C. R.Nevill, Chisle-
hurst. The new additions to the Orchid Com-
mittee— the total membership of which is 39 — are
Major HoLFORD's able grower Mr. Alexander,
Mr. Brigg3-Bury, Accrington ; Mr. A. Dy'E, The
Gardens, Tring Park; Mr. Leeman, Heaton
Mersey ; Mr. C. J. Lucas, Horsham, and Mr.
F. M. Ogilvie, Oxford. The Narcissus Com-
mittee also number 39, and shows a few changes
in its composition. The Scientific Committee,
the largest body, has increased its membership
from 76 to 81, one of the chief additions being
Lieut. -Col. Prain, the new Director of Kew
Gardens. This Committee does not, as a rule,
show the largest attendance at its meetings, the
members acting as referees when required. The
total list of names on the five committees reaches
243, but allowing for a few duplicates it is thus
seen that the Council calls to its aid this year, as
members of these important bodies, no fewer than
230 Fellows, all of whom render gratuitous and
willing service to horticulture and science.

Manuringof Potatos. — The Midland Agricul-
tural and Dairy Institute publishes the following
summary of the results of experiments made in Lin-
colnshire in 1905. I. Where farmyard manure alone
is applied to the Potato crop, moderately heavy dress-
ings (up to 20 tons per acre) may profitably be given.

2. The largest profit was realised by Plot 4, where
a small dressing of dung was supplemented with a
moderate dressing of artificials, as follows : 10 tons
farmyard manure, 2 cwts. nitrate of soda, 4 cwts.
superphosphate, and i^ cwts. sulphate of potash.

3. Artificials alone give considerable profit when
applied in moderately large dressings, but are not
so good as artificials and dung together. 4. The
dressing of artificials only, which gave the best
results, was the following (Plot 5) : i^ cwts. sul-
phate of ammonia, 4 cwts. superphosphate, li cwts.
sulphate of potash. 5. It pays better to supply
nitrogen to the Potato crop in the form of sul-
phate of ammonia than as nitrate of soda. 6.
Dissolved bones do not give such good results as
when the same amount of phosphoric acid is
applied in the form of superphosphate. 7. When
equal amounts of potash are used, sulphate of
potash has a more beneficial effect upon the potato
crop than either muriate or kainit. 8. Very heavy
dressings of artificials may give a heavier crop, but
are not so profitable as moderately large applica-
tions, and are, therefore, not to be recommended.

" Pips." — Dr. Murray, in a recent number
of Notes and Queries, seeks information as to the
date of the first employment of the word " pips "
to designate the seeds of Apples or Pears. He
tells us that up to this- time he has not found an

instance of the use of the word in this sense
earlier than the beginning of the 19th century.
So familiar are we with "Pippins" that we not
unnaturally thought "pips" would be contem-
poraneous with them. A search through Parkin-
son's Paradisus (1629), however, showed that in his
time the seeds of Pippins, as well as other Apples,
were called " kernels," a term we now confine to
the seeds of stone fruit. In Miller's Dictionary
(ed. S, 176S), the word " pip " finds no place, the
seeds being called as by Parkinson ' ' kernels. ' ' It is
interesting to note, with reference to seedless
Apples, lately brought prominently under notice,
that in Parkinson's Thcatrum (1640) mention is made
of a sort "which hath no kernels within the core."
Gerard cd. Johnson (1636), Evelyn Pomona, p. 345
(1678), and Grew Anatomy, p. 40 (16S2), all use the
word kernel. Some of our readers who may have
access to garden books of old times may be able
to trace the early use of the word " pip " in the
sense of seed, as well as in its application to one
flower out of a cluster, as in the Auricula.

Country in Town. — The object of the Exhi-
bition proposed to be opened in the Whitechapel
Art Gallery during the summer of 1906 is to show
East Londoners what can be done to bring into
that neighbourhood something of the beauty,
freshness, and inspiration of nature. The Exhi-
bition will contain: — I. Living things : (a) Plants
which have been grown in London. Plants which
ha\'e been grown in London Schools, (b) Plants,
suggested by experts, which might be grown in
London, (c) Such plants fitted into models of
windows, gardens, or roofs, [d) Aquaria, Vii'aria,
Beehives, &c. II. Pictures and Models ; (a) Parks
and Open Spaces. (6) Playgrounds, (e) Open-air
Swimming Baths. (d) Children's Gardens in
London and other cities, (e) Town Gardens. (/)
London Back Gardens, (g) Foreign Towns, show-
ing planting in the streets, (h) Garden Suburbs.
(1) Country Cottages. (J) Railway Embankments
and Stations. (A) London Trees. III. Materials
and appliances : (a) Specimens of soils and suit-
able methods of planting for London, (b) Window
Boxes. (c) Fern Cases. Flower Tables for
Schools, &c. (d) Hives. (e) Nesting Boxes and
methods of feeding wild birds. Prizes may be
offered for Window Boxes in situ in crowded neigh-
bourhoods, and for arrangements of cut flowers.
Railway Companies will be asked to send photo-
graphs of suitable places to which town children
could be taken, and to suggest comfortable and
economic methods of conveying them. Nursery-
men will be asked to make displays of fJowers
under i. (6). A Committee was formed last year,
but not early enough to complete the preparations
for an Exhibition in the summer of 1905. The
Committee is being reconstructed, and in the
meantime offers of co-operation and suggestions
will be received by Canon and Mrs. Barneti.
Toynbee Hall, Whitechapel, E.

Fruit Growers' Guide. — According to the
title page, this little pamphlet is intended for
growers not only of fruits, but of flowers, vege-
tables and Potatos, but it was not convenient to
get all that information into a headline. The
Guide is intended to assist growers, especially in
the Wisbech district, in placing their produce to
advantage in the populous towns of the north.
The directions given are, however, so practical
and so excellent that we commend the pamphlet
to the notice of all who grow for market, wherever
it may be. The recommendations made are not
new, but they are so lucidly and tersely set forth
that growers will have themselves only to blame
if they do not, as far as circumstances permit,
carry out the directions for picking, grading, and
marketing their produce. It is issued by the
Newcastle-on-Tyne Fruit and Potato Merchants'
Association, of whic'n Mr. T. Pringle, of Pringle's
Buildings, St. Andrew's Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne
(and elsewhere)', is the Honorary Secretary.

122

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febeuaky 24, 190G.

Flora of Tropical Africa. — Another in-
stalment of this important publication, edited by
the late Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew, Sir
W. T. Thiselton-Dyer, has been just issued. It
contains a detailed account of the Convolvulaceae
by Messrs. Baker and Rendle, continued from a
previous part, as well as the Solanacese by Mr.
C. H. Wright, and part of the Scrophulariaceae
by Mr. Hemsley and Mr. Skan.

Illustrations of Plants. — The garden
of M. Van den Bossche, at Tirlemont, Belgium,
continues to furnish illustrations and descrip-
tions of new or interesting plants. In the Icones
Selecta are given representations of cultivated
plants which have produced flowers in M. Van
DEN Bossche's garden. These are enumerated
in another column under "Plant Portraits," In
another publication of a similar character, called
Plantce nova vel minus cognita, M. de Wildeman
describes and figures several new plants collected
in Mozambique by M. LujA, and now preserved
in the herbarium of M. Van den Bossche. The
plants described by M. de Wildeman are Ottelia
latifolia. Asparagus LuJE, Gladiolus affinis, Oxalis
morrumbalensis, Triumfetta morrumbalana, Plec-
tronia stipulata, and Pavetta appendiculata. The
drawings by M. Apreval are e.xcellent, and the
critical dissertations by M. de Wildeman most
instructive.

Bordeaux Mixture and the Potato Dis-
ease.— The Midland Agricultural and Dairy In-
stitute have lately issued the result of some field
trials carried out in Lincolnshire to determine the
effect of Bordeaux mixture and solutions of sul-
phate of ammonia, respectively, in preventing the
Potato disease. Summarising, the results may be
stated as follows : — i. The application of Bordeaux
mixture is effectual in reducing the amount of
disease and increasing the yield, and results gene-
rally justify its application being recommended,
provided the details of mixing, &c., are strictly
attended to. 2. Three times spraying, at intervals,
gives better results than either one or two applica-
tions. 3. Solutions of sulphate of ammonia are
not to be recommended for the spraying of Po-
tatos, for they increase the amount of disease, and
reduce the crop to an alarming extent.

The Best Manures for Mangels. — Among
the several bulletins useful to agriculturists issued
by the Midland Agricultural and Dairy Institute is
one on the manuring of Mangels. Field trials of
various preparations were made during several
years, and Mr. J. F. Blackshaw deduces the fol-
lowing conclusion : — That the following dressing
per acre (in addition to farmyard manure) is what
farmers should apply in order to get the most
profitable crops of Mangels: Sulphate of am-
monia (at seeding) 100 lb. (or such an amount as
contains 20 lb. nitrogen). Nitrate of soda (at
singling) 130 lb. (or such an amount as contains
20 lb. nitrogen). Superphosphate (at seeding)
715 lb. (or such an amount as contains 90 lb.
phosphoric acid), Sulphate of potash (at seeding)
127J lb. (or such an amount as contains 60 lb.
potash). Common salt (at seeding) 2S0 lb.

The South African Forestry School. —
We learn that a South .\frican School of Forestry
is being established by the Government of Cape
Colony for the scientific training of forest ofBcers,
and for research in South African forestry. The
aim of the School is to provide a thorough course
of instruction in forestry with special reference
to South African conditions. According to the
programme from which we quote, the Tokai ar-
boretum, which now comprises the largest collec-
tion of timber trees in South Africa, affords
imique opportunities for practical instruction in
siKiculture. To this will be added the pineries
and sand-reclamation planting in the Cape Flats,
together with the fine arboreta and forests at
Ceres Raad, comprising forest estates of 20,000

acres. Such instruments as are required foi
practical forest work, including plane tables, ba-
rometers, chains, dendrometers and calipers, will
be provided. The course of training proposed
covers a period of two years, preceded by a pre-
liminary scientific course of one year, specially
arranged for those students who are not qualified
to enter the regular course. Further particulars
can be obtained from the Chief Conservator of
Forests, or from the Registrar, South African
College, Cape Town.

Linnean Society. — At a meeting to be held
on Thursday, March i, at 8 p.m., the following
papers will be read : — i. Dr. D. H. ScOTi, F.R.S.,
F.L.S., "On a new type of Stem from the Coal
Measures." 2, Dr. H. C. Torby, F.R.S., F.L.S.,
" Notes on Some Species of Nereis in the District
of the Thames Estuary."

The "Journal of the Japanese Horti-
cultural Society." — This publication has been
in existence since 1889, and its New Year's volume
for 1906 shows no falling off in size nor in illustra-
tions. The letterpress, contributed by native
authorities, is in Japanese, and includes articles
on fruit-tree blossoms, a proposed Alpine garden
in Shinano, and similar subjects. The pictures,
black and white and coloured, are formed with a
few effective strokes of the brush. Some of them
show the results of increasing intercourse with
Western nations.

National Fruit Growers' Federation. —
A meeting of the Council took place on Tuesday,
the 20th inst., at the Royal Horticultural Hall,
Westminster, Col. C. W. Long, M.P., president
of the Federation, in the chair. There were also
present Messrs. F. S. W. Cornwallis, G. E.
Champion, E. Vinson, S. Bocrman, F. Smith,
A. H. H. Matthews, W. Idiens, C. H. Hooper,
T. Waghorn, and A. T. Matthews (secretary).
Major A G. Boscawen was appointed president
elect in the room of Mr. Cornwallis, whose
duties as president of the R.A.S.E. prevented him
from retaining the office. Mr. T. Waghorn,
legal adviser to the Fide ation on railway matters,
made important statements in connection with the
claims of Kent growers for rebates due to them on
large consignments, and it was decided to send
a communication on the subject to all members.
Mr. C. H. Hooper's appointment as delegate to
represent the Federation on the Joint Railway and
Parliamentary Committee was confirmed, and that
gentleman reported what was being done by that
important body ; including the drafting of a Bill
to be introduced this Session dealing with the
classification of goods, owners' risk rates, powers
of the Boards of Trade and Agriculture on railway
questions, &c., &c. The President called the at-
tention of the Council to certain grievances affect-
ing growers, in which they might take action,
including the present mode of assessment for the
Income Tax. He also pointed out that something
might be done to simplify and improve the present
system of taking valuations for outgoing fruit-
farmers, by urging the adoption of certain recom-
mendations of the Departmental Committee on
Fruit Culture. The next meeting will be held on
March 12 at 2 p.m.

American Carnations. — We are indebted to
Mr. A. DiMMOCK for the opportunity of inspect-
ing a bouquet of Carnations, the flowers having
been cut in America and imported here in this
condition. Mr. Dimmock has previously shown
us Roses which have crossed the Atlantic in a cut
state, and were brought to this office in a good
state of preservation. The interest in the present
instance lies in the fact that the Carnations
are of a new variety named "Victory." The
flowers are crimson coloured, of considerable size, ,
moderately fragrant, and the petals are less
fringed than American varieties are usually.
Whether it is of better quality than some varieties
which have already been imported of the same

colour will have to be determined after cultivation
here. In the meantime, we could not conceal our
admiration for the excellent "grass" on the
stout, wiry, perfectly rigid stems. Certainly,
Carnation culture is practised with extraordinary
success on " the other side."

LAW NOTES.

A SINGULAR ACTION.

A singular action affecting Rhubarb was lately
heard at the Leeds District County Court, before
his Honour Judge Greenhow. The plaintiffs,
fruit brokers of Birmingham, claimed £50 from
tho defendant for damages to 2,500 roots of
Rhubarb. It was stated that defendant used
the ground adjacent to Rhubarb beds for sport-
ing purposes. The plaintiffs claimed damages
for nuisances alleged to have been comraitteed
by crowds of people who visited the defendant's
grounds to see sporting events. Defendant had
been in occupation of the field for some years.
People got on to the plaintiffs' land and trampled
down the roots. On August 9 last there was a
race between a horse and a man for £100 a side,
and other events, which drew a big crowd, and
the crops of Rhubarb were much injured. During
the race rain fell, and the Rhubarb was pulled
up by the crowd, who used the leaves as um-
brellas. Plaintiffs applied for an injunction.

His Honour said there was nothing objection-
able in the sports themselves. The only possible
charge that could be brought against the defen-
dant was that he had presented such attractive
sports that the crowds which gathered were un-
controllable. He held the crowds were not large
or bad enough to constitute a nuisance, and
therefore gave judgment for the defendant.

IN BANKRUPTCY.
At the London Bankruptcy Court, on Febru-
ary 16, before Mr. Registrar Brougham, an appli-
cation was made for the discharge of Dick Ed-
wards Radclyffe, described as an horticulturi.'it
and seedsman, lately carrying on business at
Wraysbury, near Staines. The statement of
affairs filed by the debtor disclosed liabilities
amounting to £714, but, as a matter of fact,
proofs of debt had been admitted for £1,715.
The debtor returned his assets at nil, but £50
2s. 6d. had been realised, and a first and final
dividend of 2^d. in the £ had been paid to th«
unsecured creditors. The debtor's failure ap-
peared to have been caused through his em-
barking in enterprises of a speculative character
without sufficient capital. Eventually the dis-
charge was suspended for two years.

UROPHLYCTIS ALFALFAE,
A FUNGUS DISEASE OF LUCERNE,

IN ENGLAND.
A FEW weeks ago some plants of Lucerne
{Mcdicago sativa) were sent to the College from a
farm near Heme Bay, Kent. The piece of
Lucerne from which the plants were taken had
been sown in the spring of 1899, and it was
noticed during 1905 that many of the plants were
beginning to die away. On examining the plants
sent several superficial, warted, gall-like out-
growths, about three-quarters of an inch across,
were found on the crown of the root. These
" galls " proved on microscopic examination to be
of fungus origin and due to the attacks of Uro-
thlyctis Aljaljae (v. Lagerh. olim), P. Magn., a
fungus not hitherto reported as occurring in Eng-
land. The "galls," which consist of the hyper-
trophied tissue of the host-plant, were found on
being cut across to contain a number of minnte
cavities or chambers filled with a crowded mass of
brownish spores. These spores, which measure
about 40 yu. in diameter, are the resting-spores of

Fkbruary 24, leOS.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

123

tlie fungus. From the appearance of the plants
8ent it was evident that they had been infested for
some time, and the injuries caused by the fungus
had induced the plants to throw out fresh or ex-
tended crowns. Some of the plants were almost
killed. This piece of Lucerne has now been
ploughed up.

The present disease was first observed (in 1S92)
in Ecuador, where it causes considerable loss in
certain districts. It is not improbable tliat it
occurs in other countries of South America. The
fungus was observed to be most destructive to
plants sown on damp ground, and in such spots
many old fully-grown Lucerne plants were killed.
In these cases " galls," much warted or coralloid
externally and often reaching the size of a toler-
ably large Apple, had been formed in considerable
numbers on the crown of the root. These " galls "
closely resemble externally those found on tlie
roots of Alder.'

In 1902 the disease was recorded from Colmar,
in Alsace, German)', where it occurred destruc-
tively on cultivated Lucerne. It is now reported

MONTANOA BIPINNATIFIDA.

This is a handsome shrubby Compos te, na'.ive
of iVIexico. with boldly cut pinnate foliage and
yellow ilower-heads. In this country it is used as
a "sub-tropical" on account of its handsome
foliage, but where the summers are hotter the
flower-heads are produced abundantly, as may
be seen from our illustration taken from a photo-
graph by Mr. D. E. Peto of a plant in the garden
of Dr. Hubbard, Casa St. Monica, Bordighera.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents . )
Return of Income Tax. — It has occurred to
me that the following list of grounds upon which
a reduction or return of Income Tax should be
claimed might interest readers of the dirilencrs'
Chronicle. The list hereunder is by far the most
complete which has ever been issued to the public.
Any advice I can give to a reader it will be a plea-
sure to give without any fee. Claims may be

Fig. 4S. — MONTANO.\ Bill

'•■^"wiMiM I 1 .>wi:i;iNr, ,\T r.oRDir.iM

as being not uncommon in Alsace and in certam
localities in Switzerland, and it has quite lately
been observed in Italy, where it has caused con-
siderable damage to the Lucerne.

A detailed account of the disease, with illus-
trations, will be given in the Journal of the Wye
Agricultural College. One of the most important
points in connection with the present disease is to
ascertain whether the fungus can attack other
cultivated crops, and investigations on these lines
are being carried out in the botanical laboratory
and experimental grounds of the College. I
should be glad if anyone meeting with the present
disease would kindly forward examples to me at
the address given below. Ernest S. Salmon, South
Eastern Agricultural College, Wye, near Ashford,
Kent.

* Excellent photographs showing these galls (natural size)
oil diseased plants are given by von Lagerheim in the
liihang k. svcnska vet. alsad. Handl., XXIV., \id. III., 3-12,
Taf. I., II. (189S). For an account of the first appearance
of the fungus in Europe see Magnus in the Bcr. d. dcutsch.
q^lAn. Gescllsc'i. XX., 291-296, Taf. XV (1902).

prelered by any : — (i) Who pay bank interest
whatever the income may be. (2) Who pay Insurance
premiums whatever the income may be. (3) With in-
comes not exceeding ;f 700 per annum. (4) Minors
(sometimes even for 20 years). (5) Who have
come of age within the last three years. (6) Bene-
ficiaries under wills or trusts. (7) Femes soles,
widows or spinsters. (S) Executors, cic, of deceased
persons' estates. (9) Who have been over assessed.
(10) Who have suffered business losses. (11)
Whose profit during the last year has decreased.
(12) Who have been doubly assessed. (13) Who
have discontinued their business. (14) Who have
recei\ed capital which has been assessed as in-
come. (15) For set-off of loss against profit or
against private income of self and wife, F. Lodge
liosser. Secretary, The Income Tax Reclamation Asso-
ciation, Ltd.

Winter -FLOWERING Carnations. — Having
read with interest the note on p. 91 of the winter-
flowering American Tree Carnations from Eastwell
Park Gardens, I should like to add to Mr. Weston's
excellent list the following varieties : — Prosperity,
white overlaid with pink, a strong grower ; Cress-
brook, white; Lewis Bradbury, cerise; MissClibran,

scarlet; Mrs. G. M. Bradt, flesh colour; Julian,
dark crimson, a strong grower; Duchess of Port-
land, pink; and Bronwen Lewis, yellow, tipped with
pink. The above varieties are not all strictly
American, but have the long, wire-like stems so
desirable, and should be in every collection.
Henry Butcher, IVheatlev Park, Doncaster.

Excelsior Boiler In respect to the enquiry

in the Gardeners' Chionicle for February 10, I may
say that I have had an Excelsior Boiler in use
here for over 17 years. It is economical, easily
managed, quick in action, and generally satis-
factory. W. H. Lewis, Tythrop House Gardens,
Thame, Oxon.

Azalea Beds.— I planted an Azalea bed heie
two years ago in a conspicuous position on the
lawn, and one of the first things t!-.at occurred to
me was that the Azaleas must be planted reason-
ably thickly to afford the desired eflect when they
were in flower. Secondly, I wanted a flower bed, so.
to speak, after the Azaleas were over. This is how
I contrived to overcome the difficulty. Some bushy
plants of the best coloured varieties of Japanese
Acers were mixed with the Azaleas. Afterwards,
two arches were made of stout iron, and put over
the bed, crossing each other in the centre. On
these I planted Dorothy Perkins Rose. Last
season each Rose plant made about nine growths
10 feet long. These I intend to tie to temporary
irons which will be placed over the bed after the
Azaleas have flowered. The margins of the bed
are planted with Veronica rupestris, and there are
good clumps of Daffodils in the centre In March
I planted Gladiolus Nanceianus, and lifted them
after they had flowered. In June all bare places
were planted with pink and white flowered Pelar-
goniums. The effect was very satisfactory. T.G.,
Salop.

Pl\nts in Flower at Culzean Castle,
Aykshire. — The following list of plants in flower
in tlie gardens of Culzean Castle, Ayrshire, on
January 31, 1906, testifies not only to the mildness
of the season and the mild climate of the Ayrshire
coast, but also to the wealth of shrubs and other
plants cultivated at Culzean, where the Marquis
of i\ilsa has for some time been forming a
magnificent collection of plants, many of which
are hardy there and only half-hardy in the greater
part of Scotland: — Shrubs; Rhododendron Noble-
anum, R. pra:cox, Nuttallia cerasiformis, Berberis
repens, B. aquifolium. B. nepalensis (japonica
R.Br.), B. Darwinii, Escallonia macrantha, K.
exoniensis, Garrya elliptica, Jasminum nudiflorum,
Pieris (Andromeda) floribunda. Viburnum Lantana,
Correa speciosa alba, Ctanothus Veitchianus,
Arbutus canadensis, Veronica parviflora, V.
speciosa variegata, &c., Pyrus japonica. P. Maulei
superba, P. M. alba, P. Simoni, Arundinaria
(Bambusa) Simoni, Cytisus albus. Clianthus
puniceus, C. p. albus. Erica carnea, E. vagans,
E. stricta, E. arborea. Clematis calycina, Hama-
melis arborea, H. japonica, Rubus spectabilis.
Ulex europaeus. Herbaceous plants : Colchicuni
hydrophilum, C. cilicicum, Scilla bifolia, Eranthis
cilicicus, E. hyemalis. Iris reticulata, I. Krelagei,
I. histrioides, I. alata, I. Histrio, I. persica pur-
purea, I. taurica, I. Vartani, I. Danfordia>.
Anemone blanda, Primula veris, P. elatior, P.
cashmeriana, P. denticulata, P. d. alba, Leucojum
vernum, Galanthus nivalis (single and double).
G. Elwesii Cassaba, G. E. praecox, G. E. ochro-
speilus, G. plicatus, G. cilicicus, Arabis alpina fl.
pi., .\ubrietia purpurea, Sternbergia Fischeriana,
Schizostylis coccinea, Nymphjea odorata (?) in
bud, Bellis perennis (double and single), Calceo-
laria amplexicaulis, Crocus aureus, C. Imperati,
Vinca major elegantissima, Cheiranthus Cheiri in
quantity, Lunaria biennis, Myosotis, Petasites
japonicus, P. fragrans, Narcissus scoticus,
Helleborus colchicus. The Marquis of Ailsa
kindly informs me that Clianthus puniceus, which
is on a south wall, and has its stem of the thick-
ness of a man's wrist, was only a small plant
when planted about two or two and a half years
ago. it now covers a large space of the wall, and
at the date mentioned was covered with large
buds. S. Arnott.

MoNTBRETiAS. — These plants are very effective
if grown in the following manner. Take up the
bulbs early in spring every year, and separate
them, removing all the offsets from the bottom
of each bulb. Afford the ground a liberal dressing
of well-rotted manure, and plant the bulbs
at 6 inches apart, burying thera 2 inches deep.
Given this treatment, I find Montbretias to
flower very freely, and the bulbs increase in
size, and produce two or threo spikes of bloom.

124

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febrx-aei rJ, 1906.

A long border planted with them and backed by
a row of Japanese Anemones, affords such an
effect in August and September as could hardly
be forgotten. G. Buckley, Tarforlcy, Cheshire.
High Price for Willow Timber. — At the
sale held last week on Sir Walter Gilbey's estate
Willow timber suitable for bat-making fetched
IIS. 6d. per foot. Through the medium of papers
connected with the timber trade I have for long
advocated the extended culture of Willow timber
suitable for the manufacture of cricket bats, but
although a few plantations were formed some ten
years ago, yet not one tithe of the area that our
ever-increasing demands warrant has been brought
under cultivation. When we consider that the
Willow succeeds best on damp land that would
be considered unsuitable for agricultural purposes
generally, that it is of the freest growth and may be
readily propagated, and that the price of the
timber is far aliead of that of any other tree grown
in this country, the wonder is that it is not more
generally cultivated. For planting in marshy
ground by lakes and streams — and there are hun-
dreds of acres of such land throughout the country
— the Willow is peculiarly suitable, whether viewed
from an aesthetic or an economic point of view. A .
D. Webster, Regent' s Park . February 17. 1906.

Plants for associating with Rhodo-
dendrons.— This is a very difficult question to
solve, many persons strongly objecting to any
other plants than Rhododendrons in the beds,
while others dislike bare ground, however
small. Those with the latter taste have ample
subjects to choose from, and in gaps or open
spaces between large specimens, providing
there is no overhead growth, Fo.\gloves will
grow to perfection. A mass of these plants in
full bloom in such a position is a sight not
easily forgotten. In beds of younger plants,
where space is left for their future development,
there is plenty of plants to choose from, and
these may be selected to harmonise with any
position. If a cool effect be desired. Periwinkle,
ground Ivy, and Ferns, planted either separately
or in combination, will make a splendid carpet,
and they each have the advantage of choking all
weeds, a consideration where labour is limited.
Where a brighter effect is desired. Pelargonium
Flower of Spring is excellent for the purpose,
its white leaf against the dark foliage of the
Rhododenrdons producing a pleasing effect. In
a position where plenty of bloom is desired
bulbs could be planted, preferably Snowdrops,
to be followed by Tagetes, which plant does
well in such a position, and is one of the most
continuous bloomers of all the annuals, com-
mencing, as it does, to bloom at the begin-
ning of June and continuing until cut down by
frost. Some varieties of Rose are also suit-
able, especially the variety Hermosa. This is
almost a perpetual bloomer, and its lovely pink
flowers are among the best for table decoration.
With this latter combination a few Larch posts,
to which are trained some rambling Roses,
would much improve the effect, especially when
seen at a distance. Jiio. Barker.

Small Holdings and what may be grown
ON THEM.— The happenings in the political world
are likely to be followed by alterations for the
bettering of the conditions of the peasantry,
farmers, and small cultivators as a class. Taking
it for granted that endeavours will be made by
those in authority to keep as many people as
possible on the land, by granting long leases,
free from irksome restrictions as to manuring and
rotation of crops, sale of produce off the land,
and other matters of importance to holders, it
will become a part of the duty of parish and
county councils, to a much greater extent than at
present, to teach the new tenantry better methods
of cultivating the land than those hitherto in vogue.
Not the least important of these relate to the
laying down of fruit plantations, the utilisation
of walls of every sort of aspect in the cultivation
of the choicer kinds of fruits, the raising of vege-
tables for to>wn consumption, these includnig
such rare commodities as Asparagus, Sea Kale,
Mushrooms, Gourds, French Beans, and the white
seeded varieties, the Haricots of the shops, a far
superior food to the potato when eaten in the
ripe state, while the more common kinds of vege-
tables are certain to be grown in abundance on
almost all sorts of soils. Still thinking of the cul-
inary side of things, there ought, in a few years
after fhe system is inaugurated, to be no scarcity
in any part of these islands of Strawberries ; and
common, Japanese, and American species, and
varieties of Brambleberries ; Quinces, common

and ornamental Crabs, which make such excellent
jellies. No peripatetic lecturer holding forth in
the village is worth his salt who does not, or is
unable to, teach the rustic how to raise fruit trees
from seeds, and how to treat them afterwards,
and the best methods of grafting and budding
stocks thus raised. This applies to all of our
commoner kinds of fruits without exception.
Budding and grafting should always be insisted
upon, the trees coming into fruit at an earlier age,
and the produce being finer and of greater value
than that from the usual run of seedlings. We are ac-
quainted with parts of the Continent where farmers
raise Peaches, Apricots, Plums of sorts, from seeds,
but it is extremely rare to meet with a truly nice,
delicious fruit. But then, these people have
never tasted one, and have no knowledge of any-
thing better than their own. We have an idea
that the Peaches sent us from the Cape are
seedlings, and unselected at that. The various
productions of the garden and farm that would
come under the purview of the small holder cannot
be enumerated here, but enough has been said to
show there is a wide choice of subjects from
which to select. Bee keeping should not be
overlooked. F. M.

First Early Daffodils. — It is the early bird
that catches the worm. It is the early bloom
that makes the profit for the market-grower.
Here at Ard Cairn, Cervantes, a pale straw-
coloured form, not unlike the well-known Irish
Princeps, has been in flower under glass since
the middle of December, and now out of doors
it is full of flowers, and when this letter is pub-
lished it will be in the fullest state of perfection.
Large, late sorts will never get plentiful enough
to remunerate the grower who wants to make
ends meet. What we want is early varieties,
with good constitutions, such as Princeps, Gol-
den Spur, etc. I am sending some of the flowers
of Cervantes. Poeticus prascox grandiflorus is
also one to be noticed. It flowered here under
glass at Christmas, and is now in full promise
out of doors. As a line, sweet-scented large-
flowering sort it has no equal. Personally I
have been working up stocks of all early sorts,
the aim being that in years to come, not only
in England, but all over the Colonies, the growe'r
shall get his reward. There is another good
early trumpet variety that I must mention, viz.,
Early Bird or North Star. It has a rather small
bloom, but is a good grower, and flowers even
earlier than Cervantes. I should like the Daffo-
dil Committee to get together a collection of
early sorts, no matter how small the flowers,
provided the constitutions of the plpnts be good,
and the petals still and imbricated. I have one
of this class, but only a few bulbs of it. It
promises to be the best thing in the market. It
is now in flower out of doors, and is all that
can be desired. William Baylor Hartland, Ard
Cairn, Cork. Fchruary lo, igo6.

Examination in Horticulture.— The ques-
tion of the value to gardeners of the examination
of the Royal Horticultural Society has been put to
me over and over again. Mr. Watson is perfectly
right, and if the L.C.C. is making it " a test for
promotion among gardeners," irrespective of any
previous test for practical experience, I, for one,
unhesitatingly say it is a wrong one. My reply
to all questioners is, they must apply to "whom-
soever has superintended the examiners' practical
work in the garden for a second certificate, in-
dependently of that of the Royal Horticultural
Society. The examinations have great value in
securing mental cultivation in the subject of horti-
culture ; but they are unquestionably of little, if
indeed it may be of any security, for skill in
practical work. It is obviously impossible for the
Society to undertake to estimate a young gardener's
proficiency. Such is only possible after having
seen how he has worked through each season of
the year. George Henslo-d'.

Fumigation with Hydrocyanic Gas. —
Having seen A. D.'s remarks on Mr. Dobson's
article headed '-Vaporising with Hydrocyanic
Gas," and whilst agreeing with him 'as to the
danger of the operation, I think that his query as
to whether "the game is worth the candle" is
premature. He should reserve his judgment
until this method of fumigation has been given a
fair trial, so that the relative conditions of tem-
perature and atmosphere, and also the quantities
of acid and cyanide required to obtain the best
results, may be ascertained. A. D. states that
"we have plenty of patent insecticides that are
dangerous to neither man nor plant," but I ques-
tion if any one of them approaches in either

cheapness or efficacy the method described by
Mr. Dobson. As to his statement that " wha't
gardeners have done they can do," surely this is
not the spirit in which to meet any attempt to
lessen and facilitate the numerous and arduous
duties of the gardener. If A. D. were to ask any
gardener of advanced age and life experience
whether he would like to do without the appliances
and innovations that have come into use during
the last 40 or 50 years, I don't think he would be
answered in the affirmative. The experimental
efforts of Mr. Dobson are surely deserving of
encouragement, not of the hasty criticism meted out
by A. D. ; at least, that is the humble opinion of
B. M. H.

Cyan I DING.— All who desire to try this fumi-
gant should write to Straw-son's, Queen Victoria
Street. Mr. Strawson knows more about cyanid-
ing than any man living, and his treatise as
published is extremely simple. T A. Weston.

SOCIETIES.

EOYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

February i^.— Present : Dr. M. C. Cooke.
V.M.H. (in the chair) ; Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S. ;
Sir John Llewelyn ; Messrs. Massee, Douglas,
Saunders, Worsley, Keeble, Michael, Gussow,
Nicholson, Lynch, Cuthbertson, Druery, Sutton,
Rolfe, Hemsley, Bowles, and Chittenden (Hon.
Sec).

Apples ic'ilh Median Lateral Groove. — In reference to
these shown at previous meetings by Mr. Spencer
Pickering, Mr. G. S. Saunders showed figures
of some fruits collected some lime ago at Chelten-
liam deformed in a similar manner, except that
the groove ran round the Apple in a spiral manner.
Grubs in Stem of Common Laurel. — From R. W.
Bourne, Esq., of Bishopstoke, came specimens of
insects taken from the stem of the common Laurel,
and branches showing aerial roots from the sur-
face similar to those so frequently found in this
shrub when grown in damp, close situations. Mr.
Bourne stated that the grub, which was small and
white, but later brown, "appeared to work up-
wards and to kill the branch by destroving the
inner part of the bark, the leaves on the attacked
branches turning yellow, and dying. Branches
about i^ inches or more in diameter are usually
attacked." Mr. G. S. Saunders reported that the
Laurels are "attacked by the larva; of a small
moth, one of the Tortricinse, most probably
Semasia woeberiana, but the insects cannot be
the direct cause of the outgrowths, as they are
found on pieces of the shoots that are not attacked
by the caterpillars, but they are probably formed
indirectly from this cause. The burrows of the
larva; may weaken the branches by to some extent
cutting off the food and water supply, and they
rnay in self-defence, as it were, start these adven-
titious roots.

Galls on Ash. — Mr. G. Nicholson showed ter-
minal growths of Ash which had been malformed
and caused to produce numerous lateral and ad-
ventitious buds through the attacks of the mite,
Eriophyes fraxini. This particular gall appears
more rare than many caused by the attacks of
other members of the genus.

Vines Attaeked by Weevils. — Dr. Masters drew
attention to some young shoots of Vine w-hich had
just started, but which had been bitten completely
through by a weevil, probably Otiorhynchus
sulcatus.

Pelargonium Diseased. — Mr, Worsley showed
leaves of a zonal Pelargonium which were spotted
with numbers of small, brown, drv spots. Mr.
Worsley said that the diseasespreads rapidly, and
that eventually the plant died as a result of the
attack. Mr, Massee took the leaves to examine
further. Mr. Worsley also showed some mealy
bugs which had come from Jamaica with Bananas.
Mr. Saunders took them to examine.

Galls on Birch. — Mr. Hans Gussow shou-edsome
of the large malformed growths which are so
common on the silver Birch, where the buds are
injured by mites, and as a result produce number-
less lateral and adventitious buds forming a con-
fused mass of growths similar to those shown by
Mr. Nicholson on the Ash, The mite in this case
is Eriophyes rudis.

.Scale on Willow. — Mr. Lynch, who was heartily
congratulated by the committee on tlie occasion of
his receiving the Victorian Medal of Honour,

February 24, 1C06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

125

showed shoots of Willow badly attacked by a
scale insect, a species of Chionaspis salicis, Linn.

Vayiatioti in Potiitos. — Dr. Masters commented
on the remarkable exhibit of Potato varieties
shown in the hall by Messrs. Sutton. Mr. A.
Sutton drew special attention to Solanum Com-
mersoni and to a specimen of the tubers raised by
Mons. Labekgerie, which that gentleman called
S. Commersoni Violette, as he considered it to
have originated as a sport from S. Commersoni.
Mons. P. ViLMORiN, who had grown S. Commer-
soni for many years (and, like others, had never
found any sporting proclivities in that species),
regarded the alleged sport as a tuber of the Blue
Giant, which has been in cultivation for a long
period, and which had by some accident got
mixed with the tubers of S. Commersoni, Mr.
Sutton showed Blue Giant and the alleged sport
side by side, and pointed out that the slight dif-
ferences between the two were only such as might
be expected when two examples of the same
variety grown in widely separated districts were
shown side by side. Mr. Worsley pointed out
that Mons. Haeckel claimed to have obtained
intermediate forms between S. Commersoni and
the alleged sport, and Mr. Sutton said that M.
Labergerie considered that he had seen the sport
reverting completely to S. Commersoni.

Plants Exhibited.

1. Mr. R. I. Lynch, V.M.H., of Cambridge,
showed a flowering specimen of Alpinia offuinmum,
Hance, the " radix galangae minoris " of the phar-
macologists, a plant that very rarely flowers in
this country.

2. He also showed some specimens of Rosa
l(Bvigata, a large-flowered species of Rose, which
he thought uselul in corridors.

3. Crocus viiuclicnsis (Herb). — This Grecian
species now for the first time seen in cultivation,
was shown by Mr. A. E. Bowles, F.L.S., who
compared the actual specimens with the published
hgures. The present species differs from C.
\ernusand C. banaticus in its diphyllous proper
spathe and in the absence of basal spathe ; from
C Sieberi (specimens of which were also shown)
in the absence of the yellow spots in the throat
and in the small corm.

4. Dr. Masters showed flowering specimens of
Daphne ociora, which proved perfectly hardy in the
open. Frunus Mumi, one of the Japanese Plums,
and Jasininum prnnultnum, a newly introduced
Cliinese species, all cut from the open ground, and
sent by Mr. Veitch, of E.xeter.

5. Mr. A. Sutton, F.L.S., showed specimens
of a species of Pleioiic, P. yunnaiiensis [RoUe], which
had been sent to them by a missionary from China,
and had been grown on by them. The greater
number of species of this genus are native in the
mountains of f ndia, but this came from further to
the north-west, and was taller than the majority
of the Indian species. On the motion of Dr.
Masters, seconded by Mr. Druerv, a Botanical
Certificate was unanimously awarded to this plant.

American Blight on Apples. — From L. L. Savill,
Esq., came shoots of Apple badly attacked by the
well-known American blight. ~He remarked upon
the fact that the tits seem particularly fond of
pecking the swellings and canker-like growths pro-
duced by this pest on the branches, and presum-
ably devouring the aphides.

Celery Woody and ^piitted. — F. A. Gregson, Esq.,
of Cranleigh, sent Celery, complaining that the
plants were always woody, and lacked the nutty
flavour which is desirable, this being specially the
case when the crop was grown on sand, less so
when they were grown on clay. The members of
the committee considered that in all probability
the defect was due to lack of water during the
hotter part of the year.

Orchids with Spots on Leaves, e-r. — E. F. Clark,
Esq., of Chamonix, Teignmouth, sent parts of
Orchids, chiefly Cattleyas, which were spotted
and deformed in growth. While fungi were cer-
tainly present in some of the spots, it was thought
that the primary cause of the trouble lay not so
much with the fungus as with a too wet compost
and lack of air to the roots, and possibly a too
damp atmosphere.

THE SOCIETY FOR HOKTICULTURAL
SCIENCE.

This society held its fourth annual meeting
in New Orleans, beginning December ilSth.
The President's Address.

Tho address of the president. Prof. L. H.
Bailev, dealt with the recent progress in

American horticulture, covering the period since
1902. This progress, the Professor holds, has
been largely along the line of further develop-
ment of work already established rather than
in the projection of entirely new lines. The
most active agents in the progress of horticul-
ture along educational, scientific, and literary
lines are the horticultural and agricultural col-
leges and experiment stations, and the U.S.
Department of Agriculture. Through these
agencies there have been published during the
past three years nearly 600 bulletins on horti-
cultural subjects.

In technical horticulture plant-breeding is
occupying unusual attention. The work of Mr.
Burbank was stated as remarkable and signifi-
cant, but often sensationalised and overstated.
In commercial horticulture there has been a
remarkable development in various directions.

Very valuable work has been done by the
Division of Pomology of the U.S. Department
of Agriculture by showing the relation of cold
storage to the handling of fruits. Green or
unripe fruit is undesirable for storing. It is not
matured, remains unpalatable in quality, and is
liable to " scald." Ripe fruit, carefully han-
dled and put directly into proper cold storage,
will keep a very long time. Investigation of the
Californian methods of picking and handling
Citrus fruits has shown that carelessness in clip-
ping stems, in handling the individual fruits,
and delay in putting the fruits into storage,
result in a relatively short life and a high per-
centage of decay.

In fruit growing there appears to be a marked
tendency toward better grading, smaller pack-
ages, and dessert quality.

The wholesale cut-flower trade is increasing.
Increased attention is being given to the adorn-
ment of home grounds and to the use of native
plants for this purpose, particular attention
being called to the genus Crataegus. -Attention
was called to the valuable work of the Office of
Seed and Plant Introduction of the U.S. De-
partment of Agriculture, in the introduction of
thousands of new species, strains, and varieties
of plants.

The Influenxe of Coloured Light on
Plant Growth.

In a comprehensive paper on light as a factor
of plant culture, V. A. Clark discussed the
effects of various coloured lights, of direct and
diffused sunlight, and of various artificial lights
on the growth of plants. Light rays of different
wave lengths have very different effects on plant
organisms. The red rays of the spectrum in
general promote vegetative growth, particularly
that of the leaves, while the more refrangible
blue rays act upon the molecular structure of
the plant giving rise to mutations. In arid
regions direct sunlight is injurious to many
plants, and the successful culture of such plants
depends upon furnishing them with partial
shade. The composition of light W'as stated to
be of much greater importance than its in-
tensity. The electric arc light, being very rich
in chemical rays, should prove of special ad-
vantage where vegetative growth is sought.
Roots and stems require no light. Tender stem
growth in the case of Celery is secured bj'
the exclusion of light. Rhubarb stems also
develop best in darkness when forced, and
some plan of excluding the stems from light
in field growth should be found. Leaf growth
is largest and tenderest in light of rather low
intensity, a fact which suggests the desirability
of growing salad plants in partial shade, or,
better still, in red light. The use of the blue
light inhibits leaf grow^th. This might have
particular application in regions of intense sun-
light in the growth of seedlings. .Seedlings with
normal leaves transpire too rapidly when trans,
planted, and often succumb. Growing them in
blue light would reduce their size, and hence
better adapt the plant to growth under arid
conditions where transpiration from large leaves
would be excessive. From observations in
Arizona, it is believed that the intensity of
direct sunlight is greater than the intensity
most favourable to bud formation, and that
better results would be obtained with very light
shading on the south and south-west sides of
fruit trees. The suggestion is made that in
flower growing the plants should be grown in
red light until the flowering period, and then
grown in blue light, which favours flower de-
velopment. Volatile oils appear to develop best

in red light. Flowers grown for fragrance might
be grown in a combination of red and blue
light. •

The growth of plants in normal white light
was stated to be a kind of compromise between
conflicting interests. Instead of thus growing
plants under one unvarying condition, they
should be grown in the kind of light most suited
to the particular stage of development and the
use to which the crop is to be put. Strong light
has been found in some instances to inhibit the
growth of the pollen tubes. This is thought to
be the reason why Tomatos and Cucumbers do
not bear fruit in midsummer in Ari'zona. Strong
direct sunlight in summer also prevents the
formation of chlorophyll. Thus, Strawberries
are j-ellow for about three months in summer,
even when grown under the shade of cheese
cloth. When grown on the north side of a
dense shade of Sorghum or cotton, the plants
remain green and dense all summer, and are the
most vigorous in the garden. It is believed that
the matter of shading is of greater horticultural
importance in arid regions than fertilisation is
in the East.

Horticultural Botany.

Mr. L. C. CoRBETT presented a paper on
horticultural botany. He stated that horticul-
tural botany commenced where systematic
botany left off. Horticultural botany should
give us uniform, detailed descriptions of our
cultivated varieties of fruits, vegetables, and
ornamental plants, together with a systematic
classification and arrangement of such varieties.
In a description of horticultural varieties, such
matters, in addition to the usual descriptive
notes, should be included as the history of the
variety, parentage and line of descent, and its
behaviour in breeding experiments — whether
possessing a dominant or recessive character,
etc. The matter of botanical and scientific
nomenclature being still unsettled, Professor
Corbett recommended that horticulturists should
follow some standard guide as the Cyclopaedia
of American Horticulture.

Orchards in the Western St.ates.

The Irrigated Orchards of the Western States
formed the subject of a paper prepared by Mr.
M. B. Waite. The paper pointed out the in-
creasing importance of orcharding in the Rocky
Mountains Plateau and the adjacent arid regions
of the western half of the United States, and
called attention to some of the differences be-
tween these sections and the humid eastern
United States.

Potato Scab.

Some interesting observations were for-
warded to the Society by Prof. W. Paddock,
of the Colorado Agricultural College and Ex-
periment Station. From experiments carried
out at the station, Professor Paddock questions
whether eastern potato scab may not be due
to Rhizoctonia rather than to Oospora. He sug.
gests that Oospora may often be a parasite upon
Rhizoctonia and not actually concerned in the
scab at all. It is believed that the whole subject
of potato scab is very much in need of investi-
gation.

Mr. Burbank and his Work.

Prof. N. E. Hanson reported the results of a
visit to Luther Burbank, in which he stated
that some of our scientific workers are in danger
of criticising Mr. Burbank's work too much, and
suggests that before they criticise moro they
should produce one single seedling from their
own work that in a measure approximates to the
achievements of Mr. Burbank. Burbank makes
constant use of the principle laid down by
Darwin that e.\cess of food causes variation.
Top-grafting is extensively resorted to in his
work, one Apple tree being cited which con-
tains 526 kinds of Apples top-grafted upon it.
The recent notoriety to which Mr. Buibank has
been subjected in periodicals has resulted in
thousands of people visiting his place and
occupying his time, to the detriment of his work
and health.

Soil-Heat!NG.

Prof. U. P. IIendrick presented the results of
an experiment designed to test the effects of
superheated soils on plants. The work was
carried out in a greenhouse on Cucumbers. The
bottom heat was supplied in bench beds, the
soil of one section being kept at an average tem-
perature during the experiment of 70.8", of a
second section at 73.8°, and of a third section

12G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Febeuaky 24, 1906.

at 83.3° F. The plants kept in the soil at the
highest temperature came up about three days
earlier than those kept in the bed at medium
temperature and six days earlier than those in
the bed kept at the iow temperature. There
was about the same difference of time in the
formation of true leaves. The plants bloomed in
the hot bed in 35 days, in the medium hot bed
in 39 days, and in the cold bed in 44 days. The
first mature fruits were picked from the hot
bed in 74 days, from the medium hot bed in
77 days, and from the cold bed in 82 days from
seeding. The average number of fruits was
slightly more in the medium hot bed, and they
were a little larger than in either of the other
beds. »

Commenting on these results. Professor Hen-
drick stated that they represented but one ex-
})eriment ; the number of plants used was but
12 in each bed ; much variation occurred in the
behaviour of individual plants in the same bed ;
and that there was a slight difference in the
position of the beds, but, so far as he knew,
they represented the Srst recorded work along
this line, designed to secure definite data re-
garding the best soil temperature in which to
grow our various greenhouse crops. All that is
available at present is the dogmatic assertion of
gardeners to avail themselves of brisk or mild
heat or none at all. Something more definite
is needed, and he expressed the hope that others
might take up work along similar lines.

^EUiT .Surveys.
H. P. Gotn.D sent a paper on " The Significance
of Fruit Surveys." He considered a fruit survey
as involving " a study of varieties with special
leference to their requirements ; a study of con-
ditions with special reference to this influence
on varieties ; a correlation of the factors brought
out in these two lines of investigation with
regard to cause and effect." A fruit survey of
this character should assist growers in the selec.
lion of varieties for their conditions. The his-
tory of the American Pomological Society is that
of a study of varieties and their adaptation to
different localities and conditions. A com-
mercial fruit grower no longer asks for the best
variety, for, in its broad sense, such a one is
known not to exist, but he requires a variety
which \'ii\\ best serve a particular purpose under
definite known conditions. A fruit survey
should furnish information along these lines.

Scientific Problems in Louisiana
was the title of a paper presented by F. H.
BuRNETTE. Foremost among questions de-
manding attention in a scientific way in the
growing of fruits is the late-frost problem. This
is most serious perhaps in late February, when
most of the trees are in bloom or have even
formed small fruits. In addition to the usual
methods of warding off frosts, he suggested
the desirability of ibreeding up later varieties
and more hardy varieties in the case of Citrus
fruits. Breeding experiments with Apples seem
to indicate that by this means varieties will be
secured adapted to the home needs of Louisiana
growers. Much improvement has been made in
the ca.se of Pecans, but other varieties are
needed which will come into bearing earlier.
Some trees also are self-sterile. The control of
fungi is a serious problem in Louisiana, and
resistant varieties are needed. This has been
jiartially met in the case of New Orleans mar-
ket Cantaloupe and New Orleans market Cu-
cumber. Among Pears, Smith shows by far the
greatest power of resistance. Some Oaks have
been found upon which Mistletoe has not been
able to gain a foothold. Seedlings of these arc
being grown to see if this character can be
perpetuated.

Persimmons.
A paper by Mr. David Fairciiild was pre-
sented on the " Japanese Method of Ripening
Persimmons," from which it appears that ripe
Persimmons, grown according to the Japanese
method, are as firm in texture as a Northern
Spy Apple, free from astringency, and of a de-
licious flavour. Investigations as to methods
cf curing ripe Persimmons show that the Jap-
anese put the Persimmons in sake (Japanese
beer) casks as soon as the casks are emptied.
The heads of the casks are immediately re-
placed, and the package made air tight. In
from 6 to IS days, according to weather con-
ditions, the Persimmons are cured and can be
removed and marketed, keeping in a firm, edible
inndition for a long period of time. It is be-

lieved that if Americans wish to cure Persim-
mons according to the superior Japanese
method, it would be advisable to make casks of
southern Cypress and saturate them with first-
class sake imported from Japan.

Forcing Rhubarb.
A paper entitled " Forcing Rhubarb in the
Dark" was presented by W. R. L.'\zenby. Rhu.
barb roots grown from seed planted early in tlie
spring are pulled out the following fall and
allowed to freeze. The roots are then put in
beds in the cellar, and covered from 2 to 3
inches deep with dirt, and kept in total dark-
ness. With a temperature of 70^ F., marketing
the crop can begin within 20 days, and cuttings
can be made for about four weeks. At a tem-
perature of 55°, about 30 days are required
before the first cutting can be made. Drying
the roots was found to have about the same
effect as freezing. Either drying or freezing
serves the same purpose as a long rest, which
is otherwise required, and the growth is more
vigorous. When thus grown in darkness the
leaf blade is greatly reduced ; the green colour
is wholly absent ; the texture is more ciisp and
delicate, due to a lessened development of
woody fibre ; the skin is much thinner than
when grown in light ; the water content is in-
creased 6 to 10 per cent. ; and the flavour gene-
rally improved. The first two or three cuttings
give the finest stalks. Two crops can be grown
in the same space during the winter. By double
cropping, $35.55 worth of stalks was sold from
an area of 185 square feet.

Horticulture in P'rance.
Mr. C. B. Smith gave a review of " Horticul-
tural Progress in France," in which he sum-
marised the experimental data that had ap-
peared in that country during recent years on
such subjects as the etherisation of plants, the
methods of pruning by disbudding, and the re-
sults secured in the culture of the Uruguay
Potato (Solanum Commersoni).

American Grapes.
Mr. T. V. MuNSOx presented a paper on " Im-
provement of Quality in Grapes," considering
the subject from the standpoint of improvement
by cultivation, by selection of kinds, and by
breeding or hybridisation. C. B. Smilli, Depart,
vient of Agriculture^ W ashington.

Mr. John Forrest. — We regret to announce
the death of Mr. John Forrest, late head gardener
to the Earl of Aberdeen at Haddo House, Aber-
deenshire, which occurred after a few hours' ill-
ness at Craiglea, Culter. Aberdeenshire, on Friday.
February i6. Mr. Forrest, who was in his 73rd
year, retired from his position at Haddo House
only last year, and had since resided at Culter, a
beautiful spot on Deeside, some seven miles from
Aberdeen. Previous to becoming head gardener
he was foreman at Haddo House, after which he
was for a time head gardener to the late Mr.
Thompson, Banchory House, near Aberdeen.
Mr. Forrest returned to Haddo House as head
gardener in the year 1871, so that altogether he
had been in the service of the Aberdeen family at
Haddo House for nearly 40 years. On the occa-
sion of his retirement in June last year Mr. Forrest
was entertained by Lord and Lady Aberdeen at a
garden party, to which were invited a large
number of ladies and gentlemen residing in the
district around Haddo House. On that occasion
Mr. Forrest w-as presented with a number of
valuable gifts from the Aberdeen family, the ser-
vants on the estate, and from neighbours, testify-
ing to the esteem in which he was held. In
making the presentations. Lord Aberdeen spoke
in terms of cordial appreciation regarding the
manner in which Mr. Forrest had not only devoted
himself to the duties of his position as head gar-
dener, but had also identified himself with all the
interests and concerns of the family at Haddo
House. Lord Aberdeen went on to say also that,
beyond the immediate circle with which he was
concerned, Mr. Forrest had been a most accept-

able and desirable personality and influence in
the district. The funeral took place at Methlick
churchyard, near Haddo House, on Monday,
February ig. Deceased had been a widower for
some years.

William Chamberlayne Breese. — The
loss of another good and respected gardener has
to be mourned in the death on the 12th inst. of
Mr. Breese, head gardener to Mrs. Ackers,
Moreton Hall, near Congleton, in Cheshire.
Deceased was sent to Keele Hall, Staffordshire,
as a journeyman in 1859, by Messrs. Dicksons,
of Chester. After four or five years he became
head gardener on an estate in Ireland, and sub-
sequently, after a further time spent at Keele,
removed to Moreton Hall in 1872, where he
succeeded to Mr. Mounsden. Mr. Breese was
gardener at Moreton for nearly 34 years, and
during the whole time was remarkable for grow-
ing excellent crops of grapes, particularly of the
variety Muscat of Alexandria. But he was a
generally good, all-round gardener, and the
Moreton Hall gardens were kept always in an
e.\emplary condition. A man of high character,
kind heart, and good professional experience,
deceased was well qualified to judge at horti-
cultural shows and was frequently invited to do so.
Mr. Breese was in the 69th year of his age, and
succumbed after a few days' illness to an attack of
pneumonia. His name has appeared year after
year among those correspondents who have con-
tributed to our annual report on the condition of
the fruit crop.

THE WEATHER.

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
The Following Summary Record of the
weather throughout the British Islands, for the
week ending February 17, is furnished from the
Meteorological Office : —

The wtathcY. The general character of the weather was
changeable. Several very brighi iiiiervats were experienced
in ahnost all districts, but few days passed without a fall of
rain or showers of hail, sleet or snow. The snow was
heavier and more general in the north than elsewhere.
Lightning was observed at Fort VVilliain on Wednesday and
Thursday, thunder and lightning occurred at Newquay on
the former day, and thunder at Svvanaton on Friday.

The /f»i/>(;ra/u)"£ was again below the average, the deficit
being least (r2^) in England and greate.ii (about 4°) in Ire-
land. The highest of the maxima were recorded late in the
week, and ranged from 51° in England and the Channel
Islands to 45" in Scotland N. The absolute minima, which
were read during the earlier half of the period, were as low
as 11° or 12** in Scotland E. and N., at Balmoral and Fort
Augustus respectively, but elsewhere varied from 22° in
Scotland W. and 23° in the Midland Counties to 27" in Ire-
land N., and to 32" in the Channel Islands.

The mni/a// was in excess of the average over the Kingdom
generally, but below it in Scotland E. and England N.E. In
."Scotland W. and England N.W. the amount for the week
agreed very closely with the normal. The excess was great-
est in the south and south-west of England and the Channel
Islands.

The bright sunshine exceeded the mean in all districts
except England N.E. and the Channel Islands, the excess in
most instances being large. The percentage of the possible
duration ranged from 43 in Ireland S. and 42 in Scotland W.
to 29 in the Channel Islands and England N.W. to 26 in
England E. and the Midland Counties and to 23 in England
N.E.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.

Sunshine after rnin.— The spell of wintry weather lasted
only a few days, when a return to somewhat less inclement
conditions took place. During the past week there were
only two unseasonably cold days, and only one unseasonably
cold night. On the other hand, there were no really
warm temperatures for the time of year. The ground is
now at both one and two feet deep at about an average
temperature. The most noteworthy feature of recent
weather has been the frequent falls of rain and snow.
In fact, since the present month began there have been
only two days on which no rain at all fell— the total
fall for the three weeks amounting to two inches, or
about the average for the whole month. To show how
persistent the rainfall has lately been, I may state
that during two consecutive days of the past week
there were only 15 rainless hours. As during the greater
part of the week the atmosphere remained damp nearly the
whole of the rain, as shown by the percolation gauges, must
have gone permanently into the ground. The first and last
days of the week were particularly sunny, but during the
intervening five days the sun shone for altogether only
ih hours. The wind has been, as a rule, moderately high,
and on one day the mean hourly velocity for the 24 hours was
14 miles, and m the windiest hour itj miles was recorded—
direction west. The mean amount of moisture in the air at
three o'clock in the afternoon exceeded a seasonable quan-
tity for that hour by 3 per cent. Vegetation is not now as
forward as it was at the beginning of the month A selected
patch of yellow crocuses first showed an open flower on
the 20th, which is three days earlier than its average date
of flowering in the previous 19 years. E. Jl/., Bcrkhanntcd
February 21, VJOti.

Febr«aky 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

127

IVIiLRKJSTS.

Plants in Pots, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices (Contd.),

COVENT GAhVt,N, February 21.
[We cannot accept any responsibility lor the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us regularly every
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations, it
must be remembered that these quotations do uoi repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several times
in one day.— Ed.]
Cut Flowers, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Latania borbonica,

per dozen
Liliuui H arr isii,
per dozen
— lancifolium,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen
Marguerites, white,

per dozen

s.d. s.d.

s.d. s.d.

Anemones (pink)

*' Mimosa, "dz.bim.

6 0-90

doz. bunches...

20-4 0

Narcissus, "Paper

— fulgens

2 G- 3 0

White," doz.

— cardinalis

3 0-40

bunches

16-26

Azalea nidica., per

— Soleil d'Or ...

10-20

doz. bunches

40-50

— Golden Spur,

A/alea mollis, bun.

10-16

per doz. bnchs.

5 0-60

Louvardia, per doz.

— Horsheldi

5 0-60

bunches

60-70

— Ornatus

3 0-40

Calla aithiopica,per

— Frinceps

3 0-50

dozen

2 0-50

— Sir Watkin,per

Camellias, doz. ...

10-20

doz. bunches...

5 0-60

Carnations, per

■ — Tel e mom us,

dozen blooms,

plenus, per

best American

doz. bunches...

4 0-50

various

3 0-50

Odontoglos sum

— smaller do. ...

10-30

crispum, per

Cattleyas, per doz.

dozen blooms

26-3 0

blooms

9 0-12 0

— g rande, per

thrysaiithcinums,

dozen blooms

4 0-50

per doz. best

Ornithogalum (Star

blooms

2 0-40

of Bethlehem)

— small blooms.

per doz. bchs.

16-20

per doz. bchs.

9 0-12 0

Pancratiums, doz.

3 0-50

Ccelogyne crisiata.

Pelargoniums,

per dz. blooms

10-20

show, doz. bun.

4 0-00

Cypripediums, per

— Zonal, double

doz

2 0-26

scarlet

B 0-12 0

Dendiobium War-

Primula, double

(^lianuin and no-

white, per doz.

bile, per doz.

bunches

5 0-60

blooms

2 0-30

Ranunculus, doz.

Eucharis grandi-

bunches

10 0-18 0

Ilora, per doz.

lioses, 12 blooms.

blooms

2 0-30

Niphetos

2 0-40

Luphorbiajacquini-

— Bridesmaid ...

3 0-60

a3flora,perdoz.

— Kai serin A.

sprays

4 0-60

Victoria

3 0-50

Freesias, per doz.

— C. Mermet ...

3 0-80

bunches

2 0-30

— General Jacque-

Gardenias, per doz.

minot

26-40

blooms

30-5 0

— Liberty

5 0-90

Ilelleborus.doz. ...

10-16

— Mad. Chatenay

4 0-80

Hyacinth (Koman),

Stephanotis, per

doz. bunches...

2 0^ 4 0

dozen trusses

4 0-00

l.ilac, per bunch...

3 0-40

Stocks {double

i_ilium auratuni ...

2 6-30

white) per doz.

— lancifolium,

bunches

2 0-30

rubrum and

Sweet Peas, per

album

2 0-30

doz. bunches ..

3 0-50

— lonKiriorura ...

3 0-50

Tuberoses per

Lily of the Valley,

dozen blooms

0 4-09

p. doz. bunches

60-9 0

— on stems, p, bun

10-20

— extra quality ...

3 0-12 0

Tulips, p. doz bnch

5 0-90

Marguerites, white,

— special quality

15 0-18 0

p. doz. buiiches

2 0-30

Violets, 12 bunches

10-2 0

■ — yellow, dz. bun.

2 0-30

— special qual....

2 0-30

Mignonette, dozen

— Parma, French,

bunches

3 0-40

large bunches

2 0-40

Cut Foliage,

&c.: Avei

age Wliolesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

s.d. s.d.

Asparagus plu-

Fern, French, doz.

mosus, long

bunches

3 0-40

trails, per doz.

6 0 12 0

Galax leaves, per

— — medium,

doz. bunches...

16-20

bunch ...

2 0-2 6

Hardy foliage

— — shortsprays

(various), per

per bunch...

10-16

dozen bunches

3 0-60

— Sprengeri

0 6-10

Ivy-leaves, bronze

1 fr-2 0

— tenuissimus ...

0 6-09

— long trails per

Adiantum cunea-

bundle

10-20

tuni, doz. bun.

60-90

— short green.

berberis, per

doz. bunches...

20-30

bunch

2 6-30

Moss, per gross ...

50-60

Croton leaves, per

Myrtle, per dozen

bunch

10-16

bunches

30-60

Cycas leaves, each

16-20

Smilas, per dozen

Fern, English, p.

trails

16-40

dozen bunches

2 0-30

Plants In Pots

, &c.: Av

arage Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

s.d. s.d.

Acacia Druin-

Cocos Weddelli-

mondi, pec dz.

18 0-24 0

ana, per dozen

12 0-30 0

Ainpeiopsis Veit-

Cyclamen, per doz.

8 0-15 0

chir,per dozen

6 0-80

- extra quality...
Cyperus alternifo-

18 0-21 0

Aralia Sieboldi,

per dozen

5 0-80

lius, dozen

40-50

— larger

12 0-15 0

— lasus, per doz

4 0-50

Araucaria excelsa.

Dracaenas, per doz.

9 0-24 0

per dozen

12 0-300

Erica gracilis, doz.

12 0-18 0

Aspidistras, green,

— hyemalis

12 0-24 0

per dozen

18 0-30 0

— melanthera ...

12 0-18 0

— variegated, per

— Wilmoreana ...

12 0-18 0

dozen

30 0^20

Euonymus, per

Asparagus plumo-

doz

4 0-90

sus nanus, doz.

9 0-12 0

Ferns, in thumbs,

— Sprengeri, doz.

9 0-10 0

perioo

7 0-10 0

— ten uissimus

— in48"s,perdoz.

4 0-10 0

per dozen
Azaleas, each

9 0-12 0

— in 32's,perdoz.

10 0-18 0

2 0-36

Ficus elastica, per

Begonia Gloire de

dozen

9 0-18 0

Lorraine, doz.

6 0-18 0

— repens, perdoz.

5 0-80

— Turnford Hall,

6 0-18 0

Genistas, per doz.

U 0-12 0

Boron ia inegas-

Hyacinthsl3inpot),

tigma, per doz.

24 0-30 0

perdoz.

0 0-90

Callas, per dozen...

0 0-90

Kentia Belmore-

Cinerarias, per doz.

8 0-10 0

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0

Clematis, per doz.

8 0-90

— Forsteriana

Crotons. per dozen 12 0-30 0

per dozen

'l2 0-21 0

s.d. s.d.

9 0-18 0

24 0-36 0

18 0-24 0

18 0-30 0

5 0-80

S.d. s.d.
Narcissus, per doz, 4 0-60
Privet, golden, p. dz. 5 0-12 0
R h o d o d e nd rons,

per doz. ... 18 0-30 0

Selaginella, dozen 4 0-60
Solanums, dozen... 6 0-12 0
Spiraea japonica,

per dozen ... 6 0-90
Tulips in boxes, per

doz. bulbs ... 5 0-90

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices*

Apples : — English,
per bush :

— C a I if orn tan
Newtown Hip-
pin, per barrel
per case
Nova Scotians,
per barrel :

— Starks

— ^pys

— l-atlawaters ...

— Wagners

— Russets

■ — Baldwins

— Ribston Pippin

— Blenheiml'ip'n

— Greening

— King of Tomp-
kin"s County ...
Canadian, per
barrel :

New York Im-
perials

— Russets

— Greening

— Baldwins
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality. „

— No. 2 quality...
Extra quality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per
doz

Cranberries, case...

Custard .\pples —

Dates, Tunis, per

box

— Egyptian, cwt.
Grape Fruit, p. box
Grapes, Alicante,

per lb

— Gros Colmar,
per lb

— Almeria, per
barrel

Lychees, per box...

30 0-35 0

8 6-14 0

21 6 22 6

24 0-25 0

24 0 2« 0

i« 0-ia 0

24 D-2ti 0

20 0-22 0

11) 0 -

18 6-21 0

22 o-:a 0

25 0 —

25 0-28 0

2G 0-28 0

27 0 3U 0

24 0-26 0

70 —

5 6-60

10 0 —

12 0-14 0

4 0-60

08-10

13 0-14 0

30-9 0

0 4 —

20 0 —

9 0-11 G

10-20

12-26

14 0-20 0

1 4 —

S.d. s.d.

8 0-11 0
2 0-40

60-90

80

Lemons :

— Messina, case
Mangos, doz.
Nectarines (Cape),

per box
Nuts, Cobnuts, per
doz. lb

— Brazils, new,

per cwt. ... 60 0 —

— Spanish, p. bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 6 —

— Almonds, p. cwt 34 0 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag ... 18 6-19 0

— Vv'alnuts, dried,

cwt 32 0-35 0

— Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valeutia,

per case ... 10 6-24 0

— Seville, p. box

(2 0)

7 0-76

^ Navel

17 C-18 0

— JaUa

10 G-11 0

— Jamaica

9 6-11 0

— Blood

9 0-11 0

— Mandarines,

per box (25) ...

0 B-0 11

— 00

0 10- 1 0

— Palermo, per lOQ

2 0-36

— Mandarines

(96)

4 0 —

Peaches (Cape) ...

40-7 0

Pears (Cape), per

case (40)

80 —

— per case (24) ...

5 0-70

— Calif ornian,

boi

11 0-14 0

— stewing varie-

ties,per i bush.

2 6-30

— stewnig, crate

8 6-90

Pineapples, each...

2 3-46

Plums (Cape), per

box

2 6-50

Strawberries, lb....

6 0-12 0

Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices.

Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground, ibush.
Asparagus, per

bundle :—

— Paris Green ...

— Sprue

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, per pkt.

— Flageolet, box

— Home growu,
per lb ..

— Channel Island

— Madeira, bask.
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, per doz.
Cabbages, per tally

— red, per bushel
Chow Chow, p. doz.
Carrots, French pad

— cwt., u n -
washed

— bag, washed ...
Chicory, per lb. ...
Cauliflowers, doz.

— Italian Heads,
per basket

Celery, p. doz. bdls.

Celeriac, per doz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles

Kale, Scotch, bush.

Leeks, 12 bundles

Lettuces, French,
per doz.

Mint, per dozen ...

Mushrooms(house)
per lb

s.d. s.d.

2 3 3 6

13-16

3 9-60

0 9 0 11

0 9-14

0 6 —

0 11- 1 1

2 6-30

2 6-30

2 6-30

10-13

16-20

2 6-36

3 0-36

16-20

26-29

16 —

2 0-26

0 21-0 3

16-20

2 .3- 3 0

6 0-12 0

2 3-40

4 0-60

18-23

10 0-12 0

0 9-10

20-30

10-16

60 —

0 6- 0 10 1

S.d. S.d.

0 8-10

7 0-80
3 0-36

2 6-30
2 0-30

3 0-40

Mushrooms, But-
tons, per lb. ...

Mustard and Cress,

per dozen pun. 10-10

Onions, Valencia,
per case

— Dutch, bag ...

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, J bag..

— Spring, dozen
bunches

Parsley, izbunches 10-20
Parsnips, per bag..- 2 0 —
Peas (French flats) 4 3-56
— per packet ... 0 5-0 11
Potatos (new) :—

Canary, cwt.... 12 0-14 0

— French (new),

per lb 0 2i-0 4S

— Channel Island
Kidneys

Radishes, French

breakfast, p. dz.
Rlmbarb, per doz.
Salsafy.p.dz.bdls.
Savoys, per tally ...
Spinach, perbushel 2 0-26
Sprouts.i bushel... 10-13
Sea Kale, p. punnet 0 10- 1 0
Spinach (French),

pad 4 0-53

Tomatos : —

— foreign, bundle

of 4 boxes ... 10 0-12 0
Turnips, per doz.

bun 16-20

— bags 19-20

Turnip Tops, bush. 10 — ■
Watercress, per

doz. bunches .. 0 6 —

fairly well flowered. E. hyemalis are now getting past their
best condition. E. gracilis is still very good, also E. fasti-
giata. Cyclamen are plentiful and good. Supplies of
Hyacinths continue excessive, and are disposed of for low
figures. Tulips in pots are also abundant, while the stock
of these plants grown in boxes is so large that many remain
unsold at closing time. Daffodils in pots are good. Boronia
megasligma and Acacia Drummondi are seen in various-
sized plants. Orange plants in fruit, and others in flower^
can be had, Solanums are plentifully berried, and have
good foliage. Cinerarias from several growers are very
good. A few plants of Deutzia gracilis are seen, but Spiraeas
have supplanted these plants, so that there is little demand
for the old favourite. The Spirsas are plentiful and fairly
well flowered ; some are, however, of poor quality. Among.
Ferns are well-grown specimens of Nephrolepis, Piersoni,
Asplenium nidus, Davallias, Adiantums, and the usual sorts
of Pterises, Cyrtomiums, Polypodium aureum, &c. Trade
in these plants is not brisk. Palms in all sizes are well
supplied. Some very small, useful-sized plants of Kentia
Belmoreana are seen. Aralia Sieboldi is sent in good con-
dition by some growers, but there are other weakly, drawn
plants. There is no lack of Asparagus tenuissimus and A.
Sprengeri, but not many good A. plumosus.

Cut Flowers.

There seemed a prospect of better trade last week, but
things were again quiet all round this morning. The growers
are still sending Chrysanthemums. I saw some very nice
blooms this morning, but there appears little demand for
them. Daffodils, including many of the Barri section, still
flood the market. Carnation Madame Therese Franco (syn.
Mrs. Leopold de Rothschild) is extensively grown, but the
American varieties are fast taking the place of the winter
flowering English Carnations. In Roses not many large
blooms on long stems are seen. A few fail ly good flowers
of Kaiserin Augusta Victoria are to be had; also some of
Liberty and Bridesmaid, but most of the Roses are only of
medium size. General Jacqueminot is coming from several
growers, and prices for this variety are low, but after the
first crop prices may increase again. In Tulips the double
varieties have made the best prices, especially the deep
yellow Coronne d'Or, which has been very fine. Crimson,
pink and white varieties are all good. A few of the finer
sorts of single Tulips have also made fair returns, but gener-
ally Tulips have realised far less than did last season's
crop. Liliums are in demand. Best quality Callas are
plentiful and vary but little in value. In Orchid blooms are
seen Dendrobiums, Ccelogyne cristata and Odontoglossum.
Freesia refracta is sent by both home and foreign growers.
Violets continue very plentiful. Anemone cardinalis and
other varieties of the coronaria type are very bright. Mimosa
is still plentiful. Roses are imported in fair condition but,
with the exception of Safrano, their petals drop soon after
being exposed. Ornithogalum (Star of Bethlehem) is now
seen. Jonquils and other Narcissus of the polyantha type-
arrive in large quantities. A. H., Covent Garticn, Weiimsaay,
February 21, 1906. *

0 4-05

13-16
10-12

4 0 —

5 0-60

Remarks.— Fruit received this week from the Cape in-
clude Williams' Bon Chretien Pears and Kelsey Plums,
both of which arrived in splendid condition. Peaches from
the Argentine Republic are also in fine condition, and are
carefully packed in trays containing 15, iS, and 30 fruits.
Good culinary Apples are scarce and in consequence dear.
The vegetable and fruit trade generally is quiet. E, H.
Rides, Covent Garden, Wednesday, February :?/, 1906.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

The trade in plants shows little improvement, and sup-
plies are still in excess of all demands. Indian Azaleas are
now of very good quality, the clear pink and the bright
scarlet varieties being in most demand, although good
"whites" also sell. Azalea mollis is seen in soft shades of
colour, but the demand for these plants is always uncertain.
Erica Wilmoreana is now in the market, the plants being

TRADE NOTICE.

The Shepherds Bush Exhibition. — We are informed that
Mr. John Russell, of Haverstock Hill, N.W., has been en-
trusted with the laying out of the grounds, and planting ofi
same of the new Exhibition, Shepherds Bush.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Books : L. W. A single volume of Sweet's
Flower Garden would not be of much value.

Buttonhole : C. We do not know that the term
" Buttonhole " as applied by florists can be held
to mean only a smgle flower with suitable
relief. Your suggestion that a "gentleman's
buttonhole " should not consist of more than one
flower is, however, in accordance with the general
idea on the matter, and when such a flower as
for instance an Odontoglossum is selected, more
than one specimen might very reasonably be
considered to be superfluous. But that it is
difficult to make any absolute rule is apparent
when it is remembered that, whilst in the case of
the Odontoglossum one flower from a spike is
sufficient, it Lily of the Valley be used a whole
spike of flowers would certainly be chosen. In
drawing up the schedule therefore, it would be
best to say "flower or flowers arranged for a
gentleman's buttonhole," and leave the judges
to determine whether or not individual exhibits
are larger or smaller than good taste would
approve.

Emigration to New Zealand : R. H. T. We
have not the means of knowing what are the
exact wages obtained by gardeners in New
Zealand. Several young gardeners of our ac-
quaintance who emigrated to that colony some
15 years ago have succeeded well. There can
be no doubt but New Zealand, with its good
climate, offers excellent prospects for young
men, whether gardeners or not, of sound con-
stitution, who have a small capital, and who will
be content to work at whatever may come in
their way. Naturally enough, professions and
trades are not specialised to the extent they are
here, and it is therefore the " handy " man who
succeeds best.

Employment in Private Garden or Nursery :
J. B. We are not quite sure that we fully under-
stand your question. The conditions of a.

128

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[February 24, 190(i

"head" gardener in a private establisliment
are not quite similar to tliose of manager of a
market growing establisliment, because in the
former case he is regarded as a domestic ser-
vant, and is therefore subject to the conditions
governing domestic servants.
EmcA HYEMALis: C. D. H. Your plants were
cut back much too late to flower last season,
arid everything will now depend upon their con-
dition at the present time They may only re-
quire to have the tops taken from the strongest
•shoots. Under any circumstance they should
not be cut back severely. In order to get tlie
plants to flower well they should be grown
throughout the summer in the open air in a
position where they will be fully exposed to the
rays of the sun. Applications of soot-water
and a little liquid manure maybe made to the
•roots early in the summer, but such applications
must be discontinued after August, or the plants
would continue to grow, but fail to flower.
Even plants that are well furnished with bloom
buds may fail to expand them if improper
treatment is afforded after they are taken under
glass. Ericas require plenty of light and air, and
must be subjected to only sufficient artificial
heat to exclude frost. Owing to the prevalence
of dull weather many market-growers failed to
flower this Erica well last season.
'Gardening Situations in America: IF. /. G.
and many others. It was pointed out by T. E. R.
on p. 84 that no situation can be legally filled
by advertising from this or any other country
outside the States, or by becoming engaged
before landing. If you have sufficient means
for the purpose, your better plan is to proceed
to some large centre — New York or Boston for
preference — and then advertise in the papers, or
offer yourself for employment to a nurseryman.
According to T. E. R., New York seedsmen are
always willing to give advice to young men from
this country even though they can offer them no
■employment in their own nurseries ; and he
further states that March and April are the best
months to arrive there. With regard to the wages
of head gardeners and foremen in the United
States, they vary greatly, as they do also in this
country. They are higher in the States than
here, but this advantage is in some measure
discounted by the extra cost of living in Ame-
rica. You should hi able to judge somewhat
from the prices mentioned by T. E. R. as paid
to journeymen. His letter is certainly en-
couraging to intending emigrants. ' For securing
a situation in Canada H. D. should advertise in
a. Canadian horticultural paper, such as the
■Canadian Horticulturalist , whose address is
■Grimsby, Ontario, Canada. The restrictions
■ covering the question of labour in the United
States do not, of course, apply to Canada.
Many of our correspondents on this question
liave enclosed stamps for reply by post ; but, as
■we have stated on many former occasions to do
so would seriously interfere with our primary
duty of preparing the weekly issues of this
journal, and we are therefore obliged to make it
a general rule not to reply to such communica-
tions except through these columns.
^Greenhouse Heating: V. C, Paris. Apply to
one of the horticultural builders in Paris, who
will be much more conversant with the require-
ments of the district than we can be.
■Gros Colmar Grapes; Grape. This is a late-
ripening Grape, and as such is not generally
forced to ripen early, either in private or market
establishments. The earliest ripe bunches that
we have known were ready about the beginning
of August, but fruits could be ripened earlier if
desired by applying a considerable amount of
heat, and this would probably improve the
flavour.
Home for Gardeners : Excelsior. There is no
home exclusively for gardeners who have be-
come unable any longer to follow their employ-
ment. But as you are in a position to pay ten
or twelve shillings each week we think it should
not be difficult to find a philanthropic institution
of a general character that would meet your
requirements.
C\NDSCArE Gardener : N. L. We cannot help
you in this matter. Advertise the fact that you
require a situation as improver.
r,iMEWASH ON Wall: Correspondent. Scrape off
IS much as you can by means of an iron or steel
scraper, then scrub the wall with vinegar or a
weak dilution of sulphuric acid. Do not use the
sulphuric acid if there are fruit trees near to the

wall, or you will injure or destroy the roots, and
raind you do not scald your own hands.
Names of Fruits: Gardener, Norfolk. We still
think the Apple is of the variety "Sam Young."
The specimen you forwarded was compared
with others of that variety. The following
description of "Sam Young" is taken from
Dr. Hogg's Fruit Manual; — "Flesh yellow,
tinged with green, firm, crisp, tender, juicy,
sugary and highly flavoured. A delicious little
dessert Apple of first quality." We do not
consider this very old variety large enough for
market purposes. Twenty dishes were exhibited
at the Apple Congress at Chiswick in 18S3.
Do not plant either Rymer Pippin or Brabant
Bellefleur. There are newer sorts equally at-
tractive and of better cropping qualities, and
very few nurserymen now stock Rymer or
Brabant Bellefleur.— A'. Y. Z. Pear Bellissi-
rae d'Hiver ; Apple French Crab.
Names of Plants : H. C. Brunfelsia latifolia.
— H.K. Senecio Petasitis. — A.L. Jasminum
Sambac, double flowered form. — A'. Cypripe-
dium Fitchianura (venustum x Hookerje BuUe-
nianum). The Dendrobium is a variety of
Wardianum. — ■/. G. i, Aralia trifoliata; 2,
Kalmia latifolia ; 3, Andromeda floribunda. —
/. D. M. I, Dracaena nigro-rubra ; 2, Dracaena
Reginas ; 3. Dracaena hybrida ; 4, Dracsna in-
termedia ; 5, Dracaena terminalis. The insects
are the common cockroach. The sooner you
get rid of them the better for your plants. Use
Phosphor paste which is Poison. — J . P. R. i,
Abutilon megapotamicum variegated form ; 2,
Abutilon Savitzii ; 3, Reineckea carnea ; 4, Ophio-
pogon Jaburan ; 5, Pteris cretica : 5, Acacia
dealbata. — R. E. Lopezia racemosa, Bot. Mag.,
t. 254. — ■/. S. and So}is. Rhododendron (pro-
bably) Veitchii.
Onion : IF. //. S. We believe there is no record
of the introduction of the Onion to this country.
The wild plant is indigenous in central Asia,
and probably cultivated Onions were known in
Britain in Anglo-Saxon days.
Plants at Kew : A.T. The indoor plants in the
Royal Gardens, Kew, are cultivated as well as
it is possible to have them with the means at
present available, and considering the enormous
number of species contained in the collection.
The commercial growers, and the private gar-
deners in some instances, are able to devote a
whole structure to a single species, or even
variety, and are thus enabled to afford the exact
conditions that are most suitable for that par-
ticular plant. In a botanic garden of such im-
portance and richness as that at Kew this special
grouping is generally impossible, for it is only
in connection with the cultivation of the smaller
decorative plants that frames can be used in
any but the early stages of growth. Recog-
nising these important factors, we believe it
will be generally conceded that the plants in
the houses at Kew are a credit to all concerned
in their management, though we cannot assert
that they "represent the highest state of cul-
ture of which they are capable in this country."
It is now mid-winter, but we believe that
economic plants in fruit include Oranges,
Lemons. Bananas, Guavas, Dates, Vanilla pods,
GranadiUas and Prickly Pears. Many other
economic species, owing to the conditions of
cultivation they require, could not be fruited in
this country except at very great expense, which
is prohibitive. We agree w,th you that if tliey
could be it would be an advantage. Probably
you have heard the statement that it cost the
Duke of Northumberland ;^i,ooo to fruit tie
Mangosteen ?
Plants Receiving Injuries from Fumes : G. H.
The injuries are doubtless caused by the fumes
from the heated pipes which have been coated
with so many substances. There are only two
methods of preserving the plants open to you.
(i) Remove them to another house, and freely
ventilate this one for a period, or (2) if this be
inpracticable employ a little ventilation by day
and night, and keep the water pipes sufficiently
hot to maintain the temperature needed by the
plants. After a time the injuries will cease.
Roses after Grafting: R. M. The cause of
the scions turning black as described may be
due to various reasons. When performing tlie
operation of grafting it is necessary to use a
ve:y sharp knife, and the bark of the scion and
stock should be made to meet at least on one
side. The same angle at which the stock is cut
should be reproduced on the scion, that a per-

fect fit will result between the two, and there
will be no space for air. This latter condition
is a very necessary one, for an attempt to bring
the two surfaces into contact by means of raffia
where they did not fit properly would bruise the
scion and consequently cause it to become black.
Unripened wood or wood which has been
injured by frost would, if used as grafts, become
discoloured when taken into heat, although
to all appearance sound when cut. It is
necessary to use firm, hard wood to ensure suc-
cess at this season, and if it is taken from pot
plants, or from plants growing under glass, so
much the better. The atmosphere of the frame
should be kept close, and be kept at the tem-
perature of 60". Very little water should be
given the stocks whilst they remain in the frame,
and when water is necessary each stock must be
watered individually from a spouted can, that
no more moisture w.U be caused in the atmo-
sphere than is unavoidable. When the lights
are taken off each morning let the glass be wiped
dry, and if it is noticed that much moisture has
condensed on the glass again before evening,
again wipe it dry. Carefully shade the frame
from all sunshine, and cover the raffia binding
with a little painter's knotting or French grafting
wax rubbed on with the forefinger.
SooT : Enquirer. On analysis an average sample
of soot will be found to contain 43 per cent, of
organic matter, in which is about 5 per cent,
of ammonia, 10 per cent, of carbonate of lime,
6 per cent, iron oxide, and 15 per cent, insoluble
silicious matters. From some experiments by
Johnston and Cameron it was found that 56
bushels of soot mixed with 6 bushels of com-
mon salt and sown on an acre of Land produced
larger crops of Carrots than 24 tons of farmyard
dung with 24 bushels of ground bones. Appli-
cations of soot to Onions, Asparagus, Celery,
Peas and other vegetables have been followed
by remarkable success. Few manures are so
effective for fruit trees and bushes as soot, and
it has been found in practice that hardly any
manure has the effect of colouring fruits so
highly as a liberal dressing of soot. It forms a
capital dressing mixed with leaf-mould for im-
poverished lawns wlien moss is prevalent.
For outdoor work soot should always be applied
during damp weather. The most important
conditions in regard to soft-wooded plants are the
provision of a suitable medium for the formation
of roots, with abundance of moisture, but with-
out stagnation. Hence it is that many of the
successful propagators use soil only in the
lower portions of the cutting-pot, the upper part
being filled with clean sand. To the soil pre-
vious to use may be added 2 lbs. ol soot to a
bushel of loam ; this will be conducive to health
and vigour of root-growth. A little bone-meal
may also be added. As soot contains so large a
proportion of carbonate of lime, a direct appli-
cation of quicklime is never necessary or ad-
visable when soot is used.
Teak : U. We do not know of any special work

on this subject.
Twin Tulips : R. IV. R. The appearance of
more than one flower on the inflorescence of
Tulips is not uncommon. Both are deri\'ed from
separate growtlis, but fusion takes place later,
resulting in an apparently branched peduncle.
If you make a transverse cut of the stem at the
point where the flowers branch you will clearly
see indications of the two stalks.
Violets Diseased: An.iious. Your plants are
attacked by the disease so prevalent among
Violets at the present time. It is caused by a
fungus — Ascochyta viola;. If your plants are
badly affected, the better plan is to burn them
and plant new healthy stock obtained from a
distance. Choose a fresh site in the garden for
the new plantation. If you do not wish to
destroy the old beds try spraying with potassium
sulphide. Use i oz. of the chemical to 3 .gallons
of water, and apply at intervals of a fortni.ght.
See our issue for November 5, 1904, p. 32S.

Communications Rf.ceived. — A. F. G. {many thanks, we
cannot return to ttie subject of the rainfall in 1905) — W. H.
L.— R. A. R.— W. C.-W. & S.— !•■. R. S.— Ur. Christ,
Basle— C. H. P.— H. J. 'V. We cannot give you the
address required.— Wiil T.— E. M.— W. H. C. (Many
thanlss).— W. F.— J. Wallis (Many thanks).- W. H. W.—
M. C. .\. — A. G. — C. F. B. (Thanks, we do not publisli a
gardeners' directory). — M. B., Middelburgh. — .\. G. —
H. J. v.— J. H.— O. T.— G. N.— J. T. B. P.— C. G. S.—
L. C— F. K. S.-W. & S.— A. E. J. R.— G. W.-E. P.—
W. G.-F. W.— G. H. H. W.— E. H. W.— V. H. L.—
C. T. D.— E. M.-W. C. G. L.— L. Genlil.— VV. B. H.— K. lSc
Sons.— W. C— H. W.— T. C— G. VV.-F. T. B.— H. J. C.
— R. B. P.— W. Cuthbertson (next week)— J. W, M, (next
week)— H. M. — Secretary, Royal IVleteoroIogical Society.

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March 3, 1906.1

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

129

THE

No. 7,007.— SATURDAY, March J, 1906.

Aconite, winter, a double
flowered form of the

Almond, flowering
period of the

Apples, foreign

Books, notices of —
Gardening Year-Book
Magazine of Fine Arts 136
The Book of the

Winter Garden
The French Flora ...
Vear-Book of New
.South Wales

Bird-lime for catching
rats

Broccolis at Wisley ...

Carnation, the, in French
literature

Chinese note-book, leaves
from my

Commercial research in
the tropics

Cultural memoranda .-.

Kvelyn, John, bicentenary
of the death of

Examinations in horti-
culture 140,

CONTENTS.

Orchids at the Grange,

Southgate

Peas, early culinary ...
Plants, mythical
Plants new or note-
worthy—

Aloe laxiflora

Potatos, species of
Railway reforms
Rosary, the —
Reliable Roses

Rubber, Para

Smallholdings

Societies-
Aberdeen Chrysanthe-
mum

Gardeners' Debating
Manchesterand North
of Kngland Orchid...
National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural ...
Royal Meteorological
Sevenoaks Gardeners'
United Horticultural
^•1 Benefit and Provident

14Bj St. Louis Exhibition, the

139

13G

137

140

138

138
133

131
141
137

130
129
137

130
138

130

143
143

Grape Gros Cohnar ... 140'l recent

Half-holiday forgardeners 136 i Sugar-Beet, experiments

Hydrocyanic acid gas, i in growing

vaporising with 140, 142

Kew notes 134

Kochia, an ornamental 141
Manure, the uses and

misuses of 138

"Monro" concert, the 136
Nitrogen, the fixation of 138

Onions 110

Orchid notes and glean-
ings—

Laelia x Nemesis,
" 1 ring Park variety" 130

Sugar-cane culture in

the Leeward Islands
Sugar-canes, pedigree...
Trade marks, dishonest
Trees and shrubs—

A new Himalayan
Spruce

Pinus insignis and P.

radiata

Week's work, the 134,
Willow timber for

cricket bats

143
138
143
141

133

139

137

138
136

136

132

132
135

John,

ILLUSTRATIONS.

famous olil-time hortirulturist and

Evelyn,

forester

Fir-cone Potato, the

Gouty disease of the Silver Firs

Lcelia x Nemesis, "Tring Park Variety "

Parsnip hollowed by voles, a...

Potatos, species of, from which garden varieties have
been obtained .

Snowdrops in the grass at Kew Gardens (Supple-
mentary Illustration).

133
129
144
131
144

129

POTATOS,

AMID the piles of picked Potatos which
were displayed by Messrs. Sutton at
the Royal Horticultural Hall a short
time since, there was a little glass case
whereon reposed, like sO many gems in a
jeweller's shop, a collection of tiny tubers
which might well have been overlooked b}- the
indifferent spectator. The picked samples
were for the public eye — they represented
what has been accomplished ; they appealed to
the cultivator, they aroused the attention of
the consumer. But the " gems " reposing on
their velvet cushions had a different value.
They were the forerunners of what is to be ;
they attracted the attention of the botanist,
the)' whetted the curiosity of those interested
in the progress of the Potato ; they e.xcited
the hopes of those who are on the look out for
a Potato which shall prove more or less
immune to the attacks of the Potato disease.
Alread\' by the production of Discovery Messrs.
Sutton have made a great advance in this direc-
tion, and they may do more. By the courtes)-
of Messrs. Sutton we are enabled to give
representations of some of these treasured
tubers, drawn for us by Mr. Worthington
Smith. The first we shall mention is the fir-
cone Potato, fig. 4g, which is a mere curiosity,
but a very interesting one, as proving to the

ordinary obser\'er what has been always known
to the botanist that the tuber is merely a shoot,
just hko any other shoot except in its sub-
terranean habit and its thickened fleshy con-
sistence. Gardeners speak of the tubers as
"seeds," though, of course, such an epithet is
as incorrect as is the use of the word " apple "

Fig. 49. — EXAMPLES OF THE ElU CONE I'OT.-MO.

to denote the fruit or berry, which has abso-
lutely no resemblance whatever to an apple.
The fir-cone Potato, with its thickened leaf-
scales spirally arranged, is obviously nothing
more nor less than a leaf-shoot, every bud or
" eye " of which, if detached, might serve to
propagate the variety. This Potato is not only
curious to look at and interesting morpho-
logicalh', but it is of good flavour when cooked.
The colour of the tubers varies.
The tuber marked " tuberosum. " in the

TUBEROSUM
R^PA DAMARIULA

dency to revert to the wild condition, and to
the formation of stolons of considerable length,
tuberous at the end, or, in other cases, upturned,
and producing a tuft of leaves.

There seems little doubt that S. Maglia is
the parent or one of the parents of our ordinary
Potato. Messrs. Sutton have succeeded in
effecting a cross between this species and an
ordinary Potato.

The globose tuber labelled Papa d'Amarilla
came originally, we believe, from the neigh-
bourhood of Lima. It is a yellow-fleshed
variety of delicate flavour, and in the
hands of Messrs. Sutton we may look for
some remarkable developments in the future.
We have not seen the haulm or the
flower. We may here mention that whilst the
haulm and the foliage are very variable, and
consequently of little value for purposes of
determining one species or variety from
another, the flowers, and especially the calyx
segments, are much less subject to variation,
and thus offer better differential characters.
The last figure, in the lower right-hand corner
of our illustration (fig. 50), represents a tuber of
S. Comniersoni, a distinct species which has
been in cultivation for some time. It has lately
attracted attention from the statement made
by M. Labergerie that from this yellow-
skinned variety he has obtained a sport of
large size and the skin purple. Messrs.
Sutton showed, side by side with some
tubers of M. Labergerie's variety, some of the
\ariety known as Blue Giant, and not even
the experts could distinguish any difference
between the two sets of tubers as shown.
That there may be differences in the manner
of growth, haulm, &c., is quite conceivable,
indeed good witnesses affirm that there are such
differences, so that the matter must for the
present be left open. Other Potatos ex-
hibited in this group were the Black Congo,
in which both skin and flesh are of a rich
purple colour. This is described as excellent
in flavour, and is used in salads hke beet-root,
for ornamental purposes. Whether the Potato,
as we now know it, originated from one
species like S. Maglia or whether, as M.

f-lACUl A

COMMERSOMI

CARDCHRON

Fig. 50. — SPECIES or fot.^to.

wqs

upper left-hand corner of fig. 50 shows what
the original Potato was like, and is interesting
to compare with the Magnum Bonums and Sir
John Llewellyn of our present time. Next to
it a tuber of Solanum Maglia, a Chilian species,
growing naturally in damp places. The tubers
are sub-globose, deep purple -skinned, with
sunken eyes. In August 18S6, when we first
saw this species at Reading, we noted a ten-

.Andre thinks, several species have concurred
in its production, is a matter that cannot with'
certainty be determined at present, but the
experiments made with so much care by
Messrs. Sutton for so man)' years may very
likely lead to the solution of this and other
problems connected with the Potato, whilst
their \alue from an economic point of view is
alreadv incontestable.

]30

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

PVIARCH 3, 1906.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

ALOE LAXIFLOKA, N. E. BROWN (N. SP.).

This new Aloe belongs to the same group as
the well-lmown A. ciliaris, A. tenuior, and A.
striatula, to which latter it is perhaps most
nearl)' allied and similar in habit. It was sent
by Mr. V. G. Griffiths, of Tort Elizabeth, Cape
Colony, in 1897, to Kew Gardens, where it
flowered in liecember, 1902. Its distinctive
features are the very lax arrangement of the
flowers, horizontal bracts and pedicels, and
long, vertically pendulous perianth, with brown-
ish margins to the inner segments. The leaves,
too, although straight in their general direction,
are yet slightly but distinctly sinuous, both
laterally and vertically, in their upper part, in
a manner difficult to express in words.

Stem of the Kew plant about 4 feet high, erect,
about i inch thick, leafy along the upper 2 feet,
leaves very lax, -^--1 inch distant, 4;^-10 inches
long, i-1^ inch broad at the base, J-J inch thick,
almost horizontally spreading, nearly straight,
neither deflexed nor recurving, of nearly equal
breadth almost to the middle, then gradually
tapering to an obtuse, denticulate apex, slightly
sinuous at their upper half, soft, concave above,
except at the fiat base, convex beneath, rather
dull deep green, without spots, not in the least
glaucous. On the upper side of the basal part
near one margin are usually one or a few minute
tubercles in a line, none on the underside ; mar-
ginal prickles minute, J line long, -J--li line dis-
tant, cartilaginous, white, numerous, almost
obsolete near the apex ; sheath quite entire, in-
distinctly marked with green lines. Peduncle
simple, erect, about 16 inches long, ^ inch thick,
naked below the flowering part, two-edged at
the base. Flowers 20 to 30, in a very lax raceme,
3-4 inches long, 1-J inch in diam. Bracts 2 lines
long, -J-l line broad at the base, where they em-
brace the pedicels, thence tapering to a very
acute point (deltoid-acuminate), horizontally
spreading, pale brownish-white, submembran-
ous. Pedicels 4 lines long, horizontally spread-
ing, green. Perianth vertically pendulous,
1-J inch long, 2J lines in diameter at the base,
and .slightly less at the apical part, trigonous,
straight, orange-red on the basal J, light yellow
on the apical part, with a greenish keel to the
outer segments, and a sienna-brown margin to
the inner ones ; tips of the segments erect, not
at all spreading, obtuse, the outer slightly
hooded. Stamens just reaching to the mouth of
the perianth ; filaments pale yellowish ; anthers
with reddish-brown margins, pollen yellow. IV.
li. Browti.

THE ROSARY.

RELIABLE ROSES.
At this season of the year, when Roses are
being carefully selected by cultivators to add
to their collections, it is of the highest import-
ance to know what varieties are best suited for
garden cultivation. For it cannot be denied
that Roses which are brilliantly successful at
our annual exhibitions are not always best
adapted for the special purpose to which I have
just referred. Such varieties, for example, as
Mildred Grant, Alice Lindsell, and Mrs.
Edward Mawley, from which great achieve-
ments, or, at least, very considerable artistic
effects might naturally be expected, I have
found most disappointing when compared with
many of their much less renowned predecessors
and contemporaries. I much regret to say that
most modern Roses, where weighed in the im-
partial balance of ordinary garden culture, are
. found terribly lacking in effective floral capa-
bility. There are, however, outstanding excep-
tions, and I'lorence Pemberton — perhaps the

very finest of modern introductions — is one of
these. This, in my estimation, is the grandest
Rose that has come to us from Newtownards
since the beauty and luxuriance of Margaret
Dickson first dawned upon the horticultural
world. It has the same marvellous capability
of growth, and nearly as great a profusion of
exquisite bloom. Dean Hole and Lady Ash-
town I have not found quite so accommodating
to our somewhat variable Scottish climate ; I
find them occasionally eulogised by fervent
English cultivators ; but I can only say that,
even under the most favourable atmospheric
conditions during last summer they did not
succeed. It was only hy the most careful atten-
tion, indeed, that I could induce them to grow
in situations where oldet Roses of greater vitality
have grown and flowered admirably for the last
ten years. Nor was I very successful, notwith-
standing all my efforts, with Earl of Warwick
and Countess Cairns ; but as these, and some
of the Irish Roses to which I have alluded were
planted somewhat late in the season, I antici-
pate that they will be much more effective this
year. I have good hopes of Charles Grahame,
CourJtess of Annesley, J. B. Clarke, and my
fragrant namesakes from. Newtownards and
Waltham Cross, the former of which was quite
a success last season, even when planted in
somewhat too shady situation.^.

But as I have perhaps sufficiently indicated,
the most reliable Roses, with one or two notable
exceptions, are to be found chiefly among the
older varieties ; and are for the most part either
Hybrid Perpetuals or Hybrid Teas. Margaret
Dickson I have already eulogised as a magnifi-
cent garden Rose ; Clio, one of the many beau-
tiful varieties raised by the late Mr. William
Paul, is equally fine. I may perhaps add that
these two varieties are among the most aspir-
ing climbers I possess ; here the former rivals,
if not transcends, its Australian and American
aspirations, attaining on the walls of this
manse to a height of nearl}' 13 feet. Another
Hybrid Tea of remarkable achievement in this
direction is Carolme Testout, one great plant
of which, climbing up a venerable Apple' tree,
produces enormous blooms at an equally com-
manding elevation. Viscountess Folkestone,
La France, Clara Watson, Papa Gontier, and
Aladame Pernet Ducher are also vigorous
growers, which, unlike some of our modern
varieties that require to be grown by the hun-
dred for exliibition, can always be relied upon
to produce splendid floral effect in the garden.
Such glorious Roses as these will not soon be
superseded, for they are immensely superior
to any of their successors. Nor do I hesitate to
assert that even among the so-called Hybrid
Perpetuals the older varieties are unquestion-
ably the best. Duke of Edinburgh, Charles
Lefebvre, Duke of Teck, and Horace Vernet —
such venerable Roses as these will not easily be
surpassed, though doubtless some grand crim-
son varieties have recently been introduced,
such as J. B. Clark and Charles Grahame.

Many of the finest Noisettes and Teas,
notably the far-famed Marechal Niel (the queen
of the Conservatory), are, chiefly owing to the
possession of a delicate constitution and an in-
tense susceptibility to atmospheric influences,
wholly unsuited for garden cultivation. Among
the most reliable for this special purpose are
Madame Alfred Carriere, a sweetly fragrant and
profusely flowering Hybrid Noisette ; Madame
Pierre Cochet, a lovely derivative from Wm.
Allen Richardson ; Bouquet d'Or, an exquisite
daughter of Gloire de Dijon ; Anna Olivier,
Devoniensis, Papa Gontier, Corallina, and En-
chantress, a charming hybrid between the
Chinas and the Teas ; Souvenir d'un Ami,
and Souvenir de S. A. Vimc^.— David R.
Williamson, Wigtownshire

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

The French Flora.

M. Leveille has recently published a pocket
flora of France, which will be very serviceable
to tourists and others. The plants are arranged
in analytical tables in which a series of alterna-
tives are presented to the enquirer. By con-
tinuously selecting the appropriate alternative,
and eliminating the other, the .student is, with
the plant before him, by the exercise of patience,
gradually led to the determination of its name,
having incidentally picked up on the way a
great deal of information relating to the plant
itself. Of course, if the student has a good
knowledge of the natural orders to begin with,
his labours are rendered much less irksome.
We notice in tliis volume that even the minor
sub-divisions of the genus Rubus are thus ana-
lysed ; various directions as to the collecting
and preservation of specimens are given, whilst
a glossary and an index complete a very useful
little publication. It is published by M. Charles
Amat, 11, Rue Cassette, Paris, and may be had
from Messrs. Williams and Norgate.

The Book of the Winter Garden By D.

S. Fish. John Lane.
The object of this little volume is to call at-
tention to those hard)' plants which flower in
the winter, or which from the form and colour
of their foliage are conspicuous in the winter
season. The author passes in review the prin-
cipal "berried" trees and shrubs, the winter-
flowering shrubs, shrubs notable for the colour
of their bark, and plants suitable for winter
bedding. Another chapter deals with her-
baceous plants flowering in the open in winter
and early spring. The Alpine house next re-
ceives attention, and, considering the small ex-
penditure of time, trouble, and expense that it
demands, it is surprising that it is not more
often met with. Mr. Fish's directions for its
management are simple and to the point, and
will, we hope, induce many to take up a de-
partment of gardening specially suitable for
amateurs and those with little space at com-
mand. The latter half of the book is taken up
with details relating to the plants that produce
their flowers under glass during the winter
months with the aid of a little artificial heat.
It is surprising to see how many plants there
are which will follow on after the Chrysanthe-
mums are past their best. The book is illus-
trated with several appropriate photographic
reproductions, and has an index. When a
second edition is called for, greater attention
should be given to the names of plants and to
the reading of the proofs. At p. 3 the author,,
alluding to artificial light, is made to say the
exact opposite of what he intended. Mr. Fish's,
book will be serviceable as a reminder to many,
and will furnish valuable hmts to the inex-
perienced.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS!

L/liLIA X NEMESIS, "TRING PARK

VARIETY."
(L. anceps white variety x L. superbiens.)
;\. VERY interesting hybrid raised in Tring Park
(lardens from a cross effected by the Hon. Walter
Rothschild, M.P., is flowering in the collection of
the Right Hon, Lord Rothschild. In the early
stages the plant very closely resembled La;lia
anceps, even the growth made before the flowering
pseudo-bulb appeared being exactly like a white
La;lia anceps. From it proceeded two growths, one
of which, with one leaf, closely resembled Laslia
anceps, while the other, with two leaves, closely
resembled Lslia superbiens. In the flowers the

Maech 3, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

131

characters of L. superbiens are the most apparent,
especially in the strong, wavy purple ridges extend-
ing down the lip. The inflorescence, which is 3 feet
(> inches high, bears 3 flowers, each 6 inches across.
The sepals and petals are silver-white, delicately
tinted with light rose colour, darkest on the outer
halves of the segments. The margins of the
side lobes and the broad front lobe of the lip are
of a bright shade of rose purple colour. The base
of the lip is white, with numerous narrow, dark
purple lines extending into the side lobes ; the
ilisc is bright yellow with five raised wavy-edged
keels, along the edges of which a dark purple line

and being content for a time with Orchids
simply because they were Orchids, the above-
named cultivator has now reached the stage
when nothing but the best of the different
species and hybrids therefrom will satisfy him.
The consummation of this desire, however,
requires considerable assistance from an oblig-
ing banker, but when, as in the present case, the
cultivator is more than ordinarily successful in
growing and propagating the plants, it is, in
most instances, a profitable investment, as well
as a pleasurable indulgence. The collection prin-
cipally consists of most that is good in three or

that were exhibited at the Royal Horticul-
tural Hall last autumn, and the grand series
of white-segmented varieties which are such a
feature in this collection. Of the latter section
there are no fewer than forty-five healthy plants,
many of which have been certificated, notably
C. 1. G. G. Whitelegge (award of merit,
October 29, 1901), and C. 1. glauca, given an
award of merit on the same date. Just prior to
my visit they had all been set in order for the
coming growing season, evidence of an early
start being even then visible in .some. Follow-
ing the above are a couple of dozen plants of

C^civrcichron .

Fig. 51. — L.ELi.-v X NEMESIS, "tring park variety."

extends. Tt appears to be very floriferous, and in
that and other respects it is a marked improve-
ment on Laelia superbiens. The original form was
raised by De B. Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield,
Sevenoaks, between L. anceps Crawshayana and
L. superbiens.

ORCHIDS AT THE GRANGE, SOUTH-
GATE, N.

It has been my privilege to visit a large
number of large and small Orchid collections
at home and on the Continent, but seldom have
I inspected such a choice and healthily grown
Collection as that belonging to J. Bradshaw, Esq. ,
at "The Grange," Southgate. Like many another '
qent'-eman who commenced in a humble way.

four genera, and is contained in several houses
divided into half a dozen compartments, each
and all well situated to receive the full benefit
from sunlight.

On entering the first compartment the feeling
peculiar to a well organised Orchid house was
borne in upon me, and afterwards it came as no
surprise to find that in each structure the in-
mates were almost without exception in the pink
of health. This is largely attributable to having
the paths and floors beneath the stages made up
of such porous, 'clean, and yet moisture-holding
material as coal ashes, also to the provision
of ample hot water piping, and efficient
means of ventilation. In this first division
Ais many of the fine forms of Cattleva labiata

Cattleya x Mantini, C. x Mrs. J. Whitelcy, and
C. X John Bagguley, these derivatives from
C. Bowringiana l>eing greatly favoured and
exceedingly well grown, one particular plant
having over half a dozen leads.

The main Cattleya house was next entered,
where my attention was first directed to a large
batch of C. Triaiiae, several of which v/ere in
flower. The first to claim attention was the one
which, since my visit, was accorded (on Febru-
ary 13) the Orchid Committee's 1st diploma
for the best C. Trianae sliown. It is aptly
named C. T. The Premier. It is represented
here by two strong plants, the one then in bloom
having a massive flower almost eight inches in
diameter, the sepals being an inch and a half

132

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3. 1906

in width, and the petals three and three
quarters, the whole flower being of a beautiful
shade of rose purple colour. The lip is large,
and has a deep orange coloured throat, a bright
purple front lobe, and delicately white, frilled
margin, altogether a surprisingly perfect flower.
Another good form in bloom was C. T. Mrs. de
H. Crawshay, an almost perfectly round flower,
with very broad petals and highly coloured lip.
A white form — of which there are many present
— in flower is named C. T. albo-violacea, the
segments being white, and the front lobe of the
lip of a pale violet tinge. Amongst the many
notable varieties particularised was a thriving
plant — part of the original old and distinct form
known as C. T. Leeana, which gained a F.C.C.
so long ago as March 25, 1884. An excellent
example of C. Schroderas alba, thirty vigorous
pieces of C. intermedia alba, a dozen or more of
C. Skinneri alba, C. Percivaliana alba, and
other " albinos " were admired. The central
stage is filled with a number of fair sized speci-
mens of many of the more showy Cattleya and
Laelio-Cattleya hybrids, several being instanced
as being the original plants, and all of superior
merit. The chaste flowered L.-C. Digbyano-
Schr6dera2-alba which gained an award of merit
on April 5, 1904, is doing, well. L.-C. Haroldi-
ana John Bradshaw, given a F.C.C. on October
27, 1903, is probably the finest variety of this
gorgeous hybrid yet seen. Many other speciali-
ties were pointed to with evident pride, but
considerations of space precludes their enumera-
tion. The north side of the central stage is
given up to a very fine batch of Phalaenopsis
grandiflora, known as Rimestadtiana, which
from the bristling spikes give promise of a good
show of flowers later on.

Dendrobiums are not favoured here, yet two
well-flowered examples of D. splendidissimum
grandiflorum, and another of D. nobile Cook-
soniae, gave a touch of colour to the sombre
green of the Cattleya foliage. Another species,
more modest than the above two, viz., the new
and rare D. bellatulum, bore a couple of its
quaintly coloured blooms. The north side
stage is occupied with such species as C.
Mendeli, Mossiae, etc., whose qualities lie more
in their merit than in their flourishing condition,
though given a few more years of their present
treatment and that reproach will be removed,
a.s is evidenced by a couple of twenty-year-old
plants of C. Mossiae W ageneri, which had
reached a very low standard of health, yet have
now so far recovered as to be allowed to carry
sheaths. The roof is not much obscured with
hanging plants, but several nice pieces of L.-C.
Ingram! and Laelia anceps Sanderiana are sus-
pended over the path.

A third compartment is a span-roofed struc-
ture, the south side stage of which is filled
with green leaved, massive-bulbed plants of
Lj'caste Skinneri, a large number of which
were in flower at the time of my visit. It came
as a complete surprise to me to find such a
collection of this somewhat neglected species,
and as nothing but the best are included, it
was indeed a feast. L. S. Enchantress is a
magnificent form, with large solid blush white
flowers, as also is L. S. Lady Gladys, which
gained an award of merit on December 17, 1901.
Fourteen plants of L. S. alba were in flower,
some of which carried nine glistening white
blooms. A large plant of L. x Balliae bearing
eight flowers, large in size and highly coloured,
also . commanded admiration. The opposite
stage is occupied by some very healthy plants
of Cymbidium Lowianum, C. Tracyanum, C.
eburneo-Lowianum, with five developing spikes,
C. Ballianum sending up a strong scape, and in
fli-.wer, a plant of the rare C. Wiganianum (C.
Tracyanum x C. eburneum) ; other plants pre-
sent being some good masses of Maxillaria

Sanderiana, etc., and overhead some resting
plants of Odontoglossum citrosmum. Squeezed
between this ;^ange and the Odontoglossum
house are two small houses, one of which is
devoted to the propagation of offshoots froin
the special Cattleyas and Laelias and hybrids,
and the other is partly filled with an importa-
tion of Cattleya Trianae numbering over a
hundred plants, all except two of which are
guaranteed to be white, ^\^lat a speculation !

The Odontoglossum house is a long, narrow,
span-roofed structure, fully exposed to the sun-
light during the long dull season, but amply
provided with shading appliances when the
occasion demands. That this is the proper
position for an Odontoglossum house, or any
other Orchid house for the matter of that, is
evidenced by the massive bulbed, strong, bronzy-
green foliaged plants inside, and also by the
vigour of the pushing spikes, as well as by the
thick substanced and highly coloured blooms of
those plants in bloom. Better plants no one
could wish to see, and now the fact of their
successful cultivation is assured, Mr. Bradshaw
is replacing those of inferior merit with more
costly specimens. A good commencement has
already been made, as is seen by some grand
pieces of O. Harryano-crispum, Harryano-
triumphans The Queen, recently given an award
of merit, O. x Bradshawiae (O. Andersoni-
anum x O. Harryanum), given a first-class
certificate on January 27, 1903, O. excellens
Lowiae (award of merit, April 27, 1894), a very
pretty O. x Rolfe^^ named Kathleen, an almost
white form, and a form of O. x ardentissimum,
spotted in the way of the well-known O. crispum
Starlight.

Several grand spikes of O. triumphans carry-
ing numerous highly coloured flowers were next
admired, along; with some O. x Adrianae, O. x
Ruckerianurii, and several dozen spikes of good
ordinary O. crispum, not forgetting a fine plant
in flower of the new O. x Wiganianum (O.
x excellens x O. Rolfeae). O. luteo-purpureum
and O. riallii were showing numerous flower-
spikes, and in most instances, where sufficientiv
advanced, two spikes from each bulb were
seen on the O. crispum. Hard work, high
aims, tireless energy, with a consistentlv
correct cultural policy, backed by an enthu-
siastic and encouraging master, have gained
for Mr. G. G. Whitelegge, the gardener, such
a large measure of success as I have only faintly
described. W. H. Young, East Sliccn.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

PINUS IXSIGNIS, OR PINTS RADIATA

In a note in the Gardeners' Chronicle for De-
cember 23, 1905, "H. W.," Trewince Gardens,
remarked that the specimen illustrated on page
435, which is 75 feet high and has a girth of
12 feet at 3 feet from the ground, is the largest
of that species that be knows. There are
several finer trees than this in the Pencarrow
collection. The tallest is 97 feet 6 inches high,
and measures 14 feet at 5 feet from the ground.
This tree has a magnificent trunk, but, unfor-
tunately, it has got up into the wind zone, and
the upper branches have suffered. Another tree,
which is a perfect specimen, is 88 feet high, and
its girth 15 feet 6 inches at 3 feet, and just a foot
less at 5 feet from the ground. This is the finest
example of the Montery Pine that I have seen,
although I have heard of even finer ones else-
where. Both of these trees were planted in 1844.
Two others, planted in 1849, are very beautiful
specimens, 69 feet high, girth 14 feet 6 inches,
and 70 feet high, girth 17 feet 7 inches at 5 feet
up. They are well furnished with lustrous
foliage and clothed to the ground.

The Monterey Pine is .so generally known as
Pinus insignis that it is a great pity Mr.
Kent, in the 2nd Edition ol Veitch's Manual of
the Conifcre, has tried to depose this name in
favour of the lesser known P. radiata ; and is it
not quite possible that the name radiata was
given to a tree which differs in some particulars
from the general form of P. insignis? Sir
William Molesworth, who founded the Pencar-
row Pinetum, bought trees in 1844, and again
in 1849, as P. insignis. Later, in 1851, he bought
as a distinct species a pine under the name of
P. radiata. I do not know from whom it was
bought, but the bulk of the trees which he
planted at that period were bought from Knight
and Perry, the predecessors of the Chelsea firm
of Veitch and Sons.

This P. radiata is growing in the avenue, and
throughout his lifetime Sir William is said to
have made a point of stopping his carriage every
time he returned to Pencarrow to examine this
tree, which he greatly valued. He had planted
P. insignis seven years previously to this P.
radiata, which he bought as a distinct and rare
tree. Of its characteristics as a young tree I
know nothing ; but at maturity it differs in
many respects from P. insignis. It is a flat-
lopped tree, with nearly horizontal branches ;
the lower ones are very long, making the tree
unusually broad at the base, whereas P. in-
signis has a more or less rounded top ; the bulk
of the branches are ascending, and the broadest
part of the tree is at a point nearly half-way up.
The leaves of P. radiata are of a paler green
than those of P. insignis. The cones are
smaller, rounder, and more prickly. When ma-
ture they are more uniform in colour, which is
a very light shade of brown. I feel inclined to
say that the cones of P. radiata are also paler
than those of P. insignis, but on even the same
tree of the latter one finds extraordinary varia-
tion in shades of colour.

As "H. W.'' remarks, the cones of P. insignis
— and this applies to both forms — are remarkably
persistent ; some on the trees here must be
more than 30 years old. I have opened many
cones, but have found only a small proportion
of good seeds. Neither of the two forms here
are "spring-tender," but I find that young frees
continue to grow till very late in the autumn,
and the soft growth is very susceptible to in-
jury from the fierce gales for which Cornwall is
noted. The Monterey Pine is a moisture lover,
and I am inclined to the opinion that it suf-
fers most from the Pine-beetle, Hylurgus pini-
perda when growing in a dry situation. It should
only be planted on mounds where the rainfall
is very heavy — our average of 46 inches does
not appear to be too much — or where the land
is low and flat. The growth of young trees is
very rapid. Seedling trees frequently make
shoots 3 to 4 feet long. Although of no great
timber value, an occasional tree in a mixed
plantation greatly increases its beauty. A. C.
Bartlctt, Pencarrow Gardens, Cornwall.

A NEW HIMALAYAN SPRUCE.*
Mr. Rehdek described in 1903 a new species of
Spruce, Picea morindoides, from a specimen
which is growing in the arboretum of M. Allard,
at Angers, in France. This Spruce strongly resem-
bles in habit Picea morinda, having similar pendu-
lous branches. It is, however, entirely different,
as the leaves, which are shorter than in that species,
bear bands of stomata on their dorsal [? ventral]
surface only, and show that the species belongs to.
the section Omorica. In fact, this Spruce is very
closely allied to P. Omorica and to P. Breweriana.
M. Rehder knew nothing of the origin of M.
.^Hard's Spruce ; but it is evident now that it must
have been raised from Himalayan seed. In ^i^]^
a native collector found in Chumbi, between 9,000

* In Sargent, Trees mul Sfiruhs, L 95, t. 4S.

March 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

133

and 10,000 feet, a Spruce, which is identical with
tlie Angers tree. It was lately again collected by
Mr. E. H. Walsh, who accompanied the late
military expedition to Tibet.

The occurrence of a Spruce belonging to the
section Omorica in the Himalayas is of the highest
interest. In its restricted habit, occurring only so
far as is known in Chumbi, the new Spruce re-
sembles the Servian Spruce and Brewer's Spruce.

Seeds of this Spruce were sent to various
botanical establishments in Europe in 1877 or
1878 by Sir George King ; and it is possible that
other examples of it occur in cultivation on the
Continent or in this country. As it strongly re-
sembles Picea raorinda in liabit, it may be con-
fused in collections with that species. The writer
would be much obliged if owners of reputed Picea
morinda would kindly examine any trees of that

fostered and encouraged tlie movement. In 1662
the Royal Society was definitely incorporated.
John Evelyn was one of the Fellows, and he had
among his colleagues Christopher Wren, Nehemiah
Grew, Samuel Pepys, and others. Evelyn makes
mention of the first anniversary meeting on
St Andrew's Day, November 30, 1663. To the
general public Evelyn is best known by his charm-
ing Memoirs, a singular contrast to that of his con-
temporary Pepys. But interesting and valuable
as that publication is, his papers contributed to the
Royal Society liave had more far-reaching effects.
His famous " Silva " first saw the light in the
shape of a contribution to the Royal Society, and
it was, as he tells us, "the occasion of the pro-
pagation of many millions of useful timber trees."
His Gardoiicn' Kdcndar (1666) was scarcely less
influential. In our Volume for 1895 (November lO

PORTR.UT or JOHN EVELYN, WHO DIED 200 YE.\RS AGO LAST TfESDAV.

•name which differ in having short flattened leaves,
conspicuously marked with white bands on the
dorsal surface (simulating in appearance a silver
Fir) and send specimens for identification, with
particulars of the height and girth of the tree, and
the provenance of the seed, and date of planting.
Avgiistiiic Henry, Kcw. [Among Mr Wilson's
Chinese specimens are flat-leaved Spruces which
will be described later on. .V. T. 3/.]

and December 28) is an exhaustive article on
Evelyn and his work by Mr. W. Roberts, to
which we may refer the reader, whilst the occur-
rence of the bicentenary of his death gives us an
opportunity of publishing the portrait of one than
whom no one is deserving of more reverence
among horticulturists.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

JOHN EVELYN.

Among the pioneers of scientific horticulture,
John Evelyn held a foremost place in the troubled
reign of Charles I., and in the not altogether
creditable reign of his successor. Evelyn was a
good example of a learned, a genial, and a prac-
tical country gentleman. He died on Febru-
ary 27, 1706, just two centuries ago. In spite
of much that was humiliating in the reign
of Charles II. there was an awakening, and
a real progress in literature, in art, and in
science, and it is only right that the " merry
monarch " should have the credit of having

DEYEUXIA EI.EG.WS VARIEGATA.

This decorative greenhouse grass is a native
of Bolivia. From its stout rootstock are pro-
duced numerous arching, deep green leaves,
each about a .quarter of an inch in breadth,
and ornamented with a clear, creamy-j-ellow
margin.

The plant is easily increased by division of the
crown, which consists of numerous suckers or
off-shoots. These, with a few roots attached,
should be potted singly into well-drained 3-inch
pots, in a compost consisting of about three
parts sandy loam, one of leaf-mould, and a
sprinkling of sharp sand. Pot the crowns fairly

firm, jnd afford an applicatic.i of tepid watec
to settle the soil about the roots. Keep a close
atmosphere about the plants for a week or ten
days, until the roots have pushed into the new-
soil, afier which the plants may be subjected to
the ordinary greenhouse treatment. The plants
should be shifted into 4j-inch, and again into
6-inch pots, as the\' require more room at their
roots. Plants in the latter pots are of a size best
adapted for c'ecorative purposes.

MAKAXT.V IX.SIC.XIS.

This is a very distinct and beautiful foliage
plant. The long, semi-erect, lanceolate leaves
are of a light green colour, darkly shaded on
their margins, and or.namented on the central
portion with dark green oval blotches, arranged
alternately with a small round bloth placed on
each side the midrib. These markings, viewed
in connection with the clear maroon colour of
the under surface of the leaves, give to the plant
a very handsome appearance.

The plant is easily increased by division, or
by off-shoots taken from established plants with
a few roots attached, and potted singly into 3-
inch or 4J-inch pots, according to size of the
portions. Use fine peaty soil and silver sand,
and pot firmly. Place the pots in the plant stove
and afford tepid water to settle the soil about
th-e roots. The moist, warm atmosphere 6f the
])lant stove will suit the requirements of this
Brazilian plant in every respect. //. W . Ward,
Raykigli.

HIPPICA.STRUMS.

I THINK the majority of growers at the present
time repot their stock annually. Unlike Mr.
Ruse (see p. 116), I find no ill effects from dis-
turbing the roots ; but, on the contrary, I consider
it is most beneficial to plants started from the
new year onwards. When batches are intro-
duced to a warm atmosphere during October or
November to supply flowers in mid-winter, it is
probably better not to repot them, the days being
short and comparatively sunless. Any plants
that are still dormant at the present date should
be placed in an atmosphere of 60° at night until
growth commences, when repotting should be
carried out. As a rule it will be observed when
shaking away the exhausted soil there are many
decayed roots, hence the value of repotting annu-
ally or biennially. Robust plants after a few
years' growth usually have their pots filled to
the rim with fleshy roots, which renders it almost
impossible to apply a top-dressing. Bottom heat
may not be absolutely necessary, but when
plunged to their rims in a bed of fresh leaves
root action is much increased, and in an at-
mosphere of 60°, with fire heat, the flower spikes,
as well as the foliage, are respectively stronger
and firmer. I am not a believer in using any
kind of manure in the soil, believing that it
fosters disease, but rely on diluted manure water,
which is applied as soon as the roots are seen
to have reached the bottom of the pots. Some
growers place their plants out of doors and ex-
pose them to sunshine in the month of June,
and I adopted this practice one summer, but
could not see that the bulbs ripened up any
better, neither did they flower more satisfactorily
than when treated under glass the year through.
After they have passed out of flower I stand the
plants along the front stags in an early vinery or
peach-house, where they get all the light and sun
possible. /. Maync, Bicton, Devon

PLANT PORTRAITS. '

.•\DENANDRA FRAGRANS, RcEMEK AND SCHULIES.— /COfl.

ScUct. Hort. Thencns., t. i86. This is the Diosma fragrans
of the Botanical Magazine.

.\TRAPHAXIS LANCEOI.ATA, BUNGE.— ZCCII. Sclcct. Hort.

Thencns., t. iSS.

BeAUFORTIA SPARSA, RoKERT BrOW.N, and B. PURPIKEA,

LiNDLEV.— /co». Select. Hort. Thencns.. t. 187.

CiNNAMOMUM OVALIFOLIVM, WlGHT.— /cOII. Sclccl. Horl.

Thcnens., t. 189.

HVMENOCALLIS CALATHINA, NiCHOI.SOX. — /fOJl. Selcct.

Hort. Thcnens., t. igo.

134

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3, 1906.

KEW NOTES.

Senecio Petasitis.

This Mexican plant, the Butterbur-leaved
Senecio, is not often met with in gardens, al-
though it was introduced into this country as
long since as 1812.

It is a useful plant for the cool greenhouse or
conservatory in January and February, and more
especially for large structures. A number of
plants, from 2 feet to 6 feet in height, are
flowering in No. 4 greenhouse. The smaller
plants were raised from cuttings inserted last
spring, the larger being plants that were cut
back after flowering a year Ego, and grown on
again.

The large terminal panicles of yellow flowers
are freely produced. The leaves are petiolate,
rounded, cordate at the base, fairly thick, dark
green on their upper surfaces, and paler beneath,
When planted out in a large house it develops
a thick stem, and grows into a large bush.

It is figured in the Botanical Magazine, tab.
1536, under the name of Cineraria Petasitis.

(Iarrva ei.liptica.

On the west wall at the end of the Duchess
border, the catkins on the male form of this
evergreen shrub have formed a conspicuous
feature during the past month, with promise to
continue attractive for some weeks to come. The
plant was introduced from California by the
Koyal Horticultural Society in 1828, through
their traveller Douglas. Its value for planting
for winter effect is not fully appreciated. In
sheltered positions, not necessarily against a
wall, the greyish-green catkins render it a con-
spicuous feature. The pendulous catkins on the
upper shoots can be used very effectively in
vases either by themselves or in conjunction
with flowers. Propagation may be effected by
means of layers, or by cuttings. If possible,
place the plants in their permanent positions
when they are small, as large plants suffer badly
when transplanted.

Growing by the side of the male plant at
Kew is a smaller female plant, whose flowers
are very small and not so attractive as the cat-
kins.

Epacris.

These Australian plants, the analogues of the
Heath family at the Cape, are not so popular in
gardens as they were a few years since, although
they are eminently suitable for the decoration
of a cool greenhouse in late winter and early
spring. Between 40 and 50 of these plants
are now a feature in No. 4. There are two dis-
tinct sections, the one being strong and upright
in growth, the other lax or pendulous. The
growths, many of them 18 inches or more in
length, are thickly clothed with tubular wax-
like flowers, arising from the axils of the leaves.

l'"rom 20 to 30 distinct species have been de-
scribed, but very few are in cultivation. Only
four species are given in the Kew Hand-list of
Tender Dicotyledons, published in 1899. Of
these, v.. impressa, with its variety alba, and
E. longiflora are flowering at the present time.
E. purpurascens and the double-flowered variety
E. densiflora and K. hyacinthiflora are included,
but these are garden varieties.

A considerable number of beautiful hybrids
have been raised, whose flowers embrace a
variety of shades of colour, ranging from pure
white to dark red. The following is a selection
of those in flower, with their colours: — Arden-
tissima — reddish-terra-cotta ; Alba odoratissima
— white, the small flowers are sweetly scented ;
Fireball — bright red ; hyacinthiflora — soft pink ;
hyacinthiflora rosea — deep pink ; Model — pale
pink ; Princess Beatrice — ro.se-pink ; Rose per-
fection— rose, the flowers are long and thin.

A large bush of E. longifolia var. superba,

planted in one of the beds, is 5 feet in height.
Being one of the lax-growing varieties, it has to
be supported by stakes. A few flowers are usu-
ally to be found on the plant throughout the
year. During the recognised flowering season
it is clothed with red flowers tipped with white.
A O.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W.H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawkenci:.
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Dmdt'obiums.^K large number of species and
hybrids of Dendrobium are in bloom at the time
of writing, and some of the plants having already
started to grow, it may be pointed out that these
tender young growths are very liable to be injured
if the atmospheric temperature of the house falls
several degrees below the average and is permitted
to continue so for some length of time. They are
especially liable to become spotted and diseased if
not carefully protected from cold or boisterous
winds, which are more or less prevalent during
the months of March and April. In order to
guard against the plants receiving any such injury
during the night, it is a good plan to fasten mats
of double thickness along the sidelights and ends
of the house, also to roll some mats along the
lower part of the roof, which is the coldest part of
the house, putting them on at dusk and taking
them off early in the morning if the atmospheric
temperature in the house will permit. In order to
make these coverings secure we let down the
lattice wood bUnd over them, tieing the blinds to
small iron fixtures made for the purpose. Should
the atmosphere in the house feel at all close or
stuffy when the coverings are all on, a very little
air may be admitted through the ventilators.
When removing the coverings in the morning it
may not be advisable to take them all off at one
time, as sudden fluctuations in the conditions of
the atmosphere should be avoided as much as
possible.

Arachiianihc Cathcartii, &-c. — The singular and
handsome A. (Vanda) Cathcartii is now in bloom
with five flowers on a spike. It is a plant that is
rather particular as to position and treatment, but
if fastened and trained up a Teak-wood raft and
placed in a moist, shady part of the East Indian
house, it will thrive luxuriantly. The present is a
suitable time to examine such beautiful Orchids es
Aerides, Saccolabium, Renanthera, Angraecum,
Sarcanthus, Arachnanthe Lowii, and the warm-
growing Vandas, to ascertain the condition of the
plants as regards the rooting medium, &c., for
with the increase of sunshine the young, tender
points of the roots will commence to grow, and a
slight touch would injure or break tlrem. Plants
that have lost a number of their lower leaves and
that have a sufficient number of roots above to
support them should be cut down, so that when
the plant is placed in position in the new pot the
leaves will be on a level with the rim. Afford
plenty of drainage materials and use a compost of
clean sphagnum moss and broken crocks, pressing
it down firmly among the roots. For such large,
fleshy-rooting species as Aerides crispum and its
varieties Lindleyanum and Warned, also A.
crassifolium, A. Fieldingi, A. maculosum, and its
rare variety Schroderi, Angraecum Kotschyi, and
some of the stronger growing Saccolabiums,
something difterent from sphagnum-moss appears
to be necessary, as the thick, succulent roots do
not thrive satisfactorily in such close, damp
material. At Burford these plants are being
placed in pots which are filled with moderately-
sized pieces of well-dried elm bark, and some of
the plants have been in this material for over a
year, and are growing exceedingly well. The
varieties of Aerides enumerated above thrive
better in an intermediate temperature than when
placed in great heat.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,

Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Ferns. — Examine the stock of Ferns, and if it is
necessary to increase any by division there is
no better time than the present to carry out the
operation. Dispense with as many of the old
fronds as is practicable, for by so doing thrips, if
present, will be destroyed. Adiantums which
were treated as advised in my Calendar for

January 20 should be given frequent waterings
of weak liquid manure and soot-water. Most
Ferns, but especially Adiantums, thrive wonder-
fully if given a few doses of Lc Fruitier, and also
if a small (juantity is used in the potting mixture.
Ferns whicli have creeping rhizomes require a
lighter compost to grow in than the crown or
tufted species. Rougii fibrous peat, chopped
sphagnum-moss, small lumps of charcoal, and red
sandstone rock, with a proportion of sand, forms
the compost in which all the surface rooting Ferns
are grown at Cleveley. For exhibition the six
foUowings F"erns are worth growing : Davallia
Fijiensis, Nephrolepis davallioides furcans,
Goniophlebium appendiculatum, Davallia tenui-
folia Veitcliiana, Nephrolepis rufescens tripin-
natifida, and Adiantum tenerum Farleyense. Ap-
ply water sparingly until the j'oung roots have
obtained a good hold on the new soil. Maintain
an atmospheric temperature of 60° to 65°. n

Primula veyticillata. — This lovely sweet-scented
species flowers from now onwards till the end of
May. The plants are most useful for placing at
the fronts of stages in thecorridor or conservatory,
also if associated with Tulips, Lily of Valley, or
other bulbs they are very pleasing. A packet of
seed if sown at once in an atmospheric temperature
of 50° will soon germinate. A successional lot of
plants may be raised by sowing new seed whicli
will ripen in the course of a month or six weeks
hence, on plants now going out ol flower. The
plants need to be cultivated in a cool greenhouse
or frame.

Chironia i.xifera. — Cuttings of this lovely free-
flowering greenhouse plant may be inserted at tlie
present time, and they will make nice plants if
grown on for another year. Pot them in a com-
post of good sandy loam and leaf-soil, and feed
the plants liberally when the pots have become
full of roots. Pinch the shoots occasionally to
induce a bushy habit in the plants.

General remarlis. — Examine blinds used for shad-
ing, and take steps to have them put into good
order so that when required they may be in readi-
ness. The syringe must now be brought into use
morning and afternoon on bright days to en-
courage growth in Codisums (Crotons), Ixoras,
and other stove species. The temperature of the
water used for syringing purposes should exceed
that of the atmosphere of the house by 5°. Con-
tinue to increase by cuttings. Fuchsias, Colens,
Petunias, and all soft-wooded plants which may be
found useful in furnishing the houses when most
liard-wooded plants will have been removed out
of doors. Tuberous Begonias should be placed
in shallow boxes containing a liitle leaf mould and
sand. A suitable place and atmosphere may be
found for the same in a Peach house or Vinery
which has been just started. Give strict attention
to cleanliness in all departments, and adopt every
.neans to make the plant houses as attractive as
possible.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. \V. BiKKiNsHAW, Gardener to LI. -Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Strawberries in Pots. — The earliest Strawberry
plants that were started in January have made
considerable progress during the past fortnight,
an.l will now require daily attention in order to
keep the roots in a moist condition. Cut off all
weak and deformed fruits in order that those which
remain may grow stronger. The fruits will now
need to be supported by thin stakes about
8 inches in length, two of which should be placed
in each pot and a piece of strong raffia tied to
each stake for the fruits to rest upon. As the
fruits approach the ripening stage, they would
soon bruise if left to hang over the pot sides.
Waterings with diluted liquid manure and a little
guano dissolved in water may be applied to the
roots alternately twice or three times each week
until the fruits-commence to colour, when it must
be discontinued, and only clear water used. The
best position for the plants at the present time is
on a shelf close up to tlie glass in the Melon house
or Pine stove, where there is plenty of atmo-
spheric moisture, and exposure to full sunshine.
Syringe the plants twice each day when the weather
is favourable, for if red spider becomes prevalent
the fruit will have a dingy appearance, and pos-
sess but poor flavour. When the fruits are ripe,
remove the plants to a cooler atmosphere for a
few days before sending the fruits to the table or
packing tliem to travel. Place a large number of
plants in an atmosphere of moderate warmth, so-

Makch 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Loo

that there may be no break in the supply of fruit
later on. Select the best plants with the most
promising crowns, and as they begin to show their
flower-scapes move them to a warmer atmosphere
in numbers as may be required. Any plants that
would be "blind " can be detected betore bringing
them into the houses from the cold frames.

Cape Gooseberry (Pliysalis peruviana). — This fruit
is very attracti\e when ripe, and it makes an
additional dish to the dessert. Seeds should be
sown at once, putting them thinly in a pot or pan
of bght soil and placing them over mild bottom
heat. When the plants are about three inches
high pot them into three inch pots, keeping them
near to the glass, and when they have filled these
pots with roots they may be planted out in a warm
greenhouse or vinery in turfy loam, leaf-soil and
lime scraps. If only a few plants are required
lo inch pots will be suitable to fruit them in, using
the same kind of soil. When they become estab-
lished they make much growth, and this will
require to be thinned out regularly. The fruits
ripen in August and September, and they are
useful for dessert or for the making of jam.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

hy Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

The Hollyhock from Seed. — Owing to the almost
universal prevalence of the disease to which this
beautiful flowering plant is subject, it is
generally recognised that the only way to enjoy
the colour of its splendid spikes, so essential to
the boldness of a mixed border, is to raise fresh
stock every year from seed. The seedlings,
though not exempt from the fungus, still, in com-
parison to old plants and plants raised from old
stock , enjoy an appreciable degree of immunity for a
few years. It is almost hopeless for individuals
to try to eradicate it entirely, and it is question-
able whether united action on the part of all
growers would do so, owing to the fact that all
the mallows are subject to the same disease. The
Hollyhock comes very true to colour from seed,
so that when sown in distinct colours the seed-
lings can be relied upon for border decoration.
Many prefer the autumn for sowing, and then
grow on the seedlings through the winter in
cold frames, but it will be found that sowing now,
and growing the seedlings on (luickly, is far better
than keeping them throughout the winter, the
prey of damp and slugs. Sow the seeds in well-
drained pans or seed boxes filled with mode-
rately rich soil, afterwards place the pans or boxes
in a warm atmosphere and cover the seeds lightly
with a sprinkling of fine soil. When strong
enough to handle, the seedlings must be potted
into small pots, using a good porous compost, and
then when rooting freely they should be potted
again into 5 inch pots, in which they can be hardened
off by employing increased ventilation. As soon as
they make sturdy growth the plants can be trans-
ferred to cold frames, where merely protection from
frost and cold winds need be provided. By the
end of the month of May they will have formed
sturdy-growing plants fit for planting out. Treated
thus. Hollyhocks flower the first year, though the
spikes produced in the following year are much
stronger and freer. It is interesting to note that
one or two firms of seedsmen are supplying as a
novelty seeds of what they term an "annual
type" of Hollyhock. It is in mixed colours,
and if sown in the middle of March and
planted out in the first week in May the plants
are said to bloom from the middle of July until
late in autumn. According to the catalogue de-
scriptions the habit is branching, semi-tall, with
double flowers of graceful, loose petals.

The St. Bridgid Anemones. — Where the climatic
conditions are comparatively dry, these roots are
best planted in the autumn, but in localities where
the ground is wet it is better to defer doing so
until February or early in March. They ought to
be planted at once, and to obtain the best results
the ground should have been previously manured,
but they succeed well in any good garden soil.

The Persian and Turban Ranunculuses. — These are
also beautiful flowers for the garden, and afford
a charming effect, particularly if grown in masses.
It is even more advisable than in the case of the
Anemones that the roots of the Ranunculuses
should not be planted until the latter end of
February or early in March, because they are
even more susceptible to danger from being
exposed in wet soils during the winter. It is
essential that the Ranunculus should be given

liberal treatment. The beds in which it is in-
tended to grow them should be well prepared
before planting by incorporating some manure
and leaf-mould with the soil. If the soil has
a tendency to be heavy, sand can be added.
Draw drills about 6 inches apart and i inch in
depth. Then place the roots in them about 4 inches
between each, and press them firmly into the soil.
A top dressing of good loam to the thickness of
3 inches should be applied, and then raking the
bed smooth is an appropriate completion to the
planting.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By \V. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmu.no G. Loder,

Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.
Gooseberry Bushes. — Complete the pruning of
these as soon as possible. If large fruits are de-
sired the branches must be well thinned out and
the spurs cut back to three or four eyes on each.
In cases where a large quantity of green fruits
is desired the shoots may be left nearly their
whole length. Gooseberries are first-rate when
bottled properly whilst green. Protection from
birds may be provided by the use of netting as
was advised on p. 38. Sprinkle a good dressing
of lime under the bushes, and if there is any
lichen on the branches spray thein with an
alkali solution. Richards' XL-All Winter Wash
is a good non-poisonous wash for fruit trees. It
destroys all kinds of pest and lichen, and leaves
the bark bright and clean. When this work has
been done, lightly fork over the ground, and
apply a good mulch of long strawy manure.
The value of mulching to fruit trees cannot be
over-estimated. These latter remarks apply with
equal force to Red and Black Currants.

Raspberries. — If the growths have been tied to
strained wire, the tops may now be pruned back.
Let newly-planted canes be cut to the ground
level, .\utumn fruiting varieties, such as Belle
d© Fontenay, etc., should be pruned hard, half
now, and the remainder about two or three
weeks later. The whole of the Raspberry plot
should then be given a liberal mulch of manure.

Alpine Strawberries. — Sow seeds of the variety
called Sutton's Improved Red, the fruit of which
is twice the size of that of the ordinary Alpine
Strawberry. For this purpose employ boxes con-
taining finely-prepared soil, and afford an at-
mospheric temperature of 55". Sow the seed
thinly, and when the young plants are l^rge
enough to handle prick them off into other
boxes, and subsequently plant them out in a
well-prepared border of fine, medium soil.

Planling must be finished without delay.
Apply a mulch over the roots of all trees planted
after this date. Have material ready for pro-
tecting fruit tree blossom from frost.

Morcllo Cherries. — -Thin out the wood
thoroughly and lay in good shoots their whole
length all over the tree. This system needs to
be repeated year after year, the young wood
being the bearing wood. Leave plenty of room
for young shoots to be laid in, and still have
the advantage of exposure to light and air. Spray
the trees with XL-All or Petroleum Emulsion
just before the flow-ering stage.

Pruning should now be brought to a comple-
tion as soon as possible.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Onions in Boxes. — Young Onion plants raised
from seeds sown early in January will now be in
good order for pricking off into other boxes. They
must be encouraged to grow to their fullest extent
in order to get the greatest size possible if they are
intended for exhibition purposes. Plant the seed-
lings 3 inches apart each way in a compost of
rich soil and keep them in an atmospheric tem-
perature of 55° until they have made considerable
growth, and are ready for hardening off in the
first week in April.

Vegetable Marroirs. — Marrows are much appre-
ciated early in the season, and a few seeds should
be sown in pots at this date if means will allow a
crop to mature in frames. One of the small
varieties should be selected, such as Pen-y-byd, or
Moore's Cream, and the Custard Marrow should
not be forgotten : these latter are very fruitful
and make a splendid dish. Sow the seeds in pots
on a slight hotbed, or in a propagating pit. when

they will soon germinate. Good crops should be
secured by the latter end of May.

Early Peas which have been raised in boxes,
and are now from 2 to 3 inches in height,
should be hardened off in readiness for planting iri
the open. Thorough hardiness when first put out
is essential to success. Some of the plants may
profitably be p.anted in cold frames where space
can be spared. In cold districts another sowing
should still be made in bo.xes to succeed the
others, using some of the varieties already men-
tioned in a previous Calendar. Those already
established under glass will require considerable
water at the roots, and should be syringed with
tepid water in the afternoon on fine days.

Celery. — The main crop of plants remaining in
the open may now be lifted and stored closely
together behind a shady wall. This will allow
the trenches to be levelled and the ground dug in
readiness for the next crop. If time can be spared
It is best to trench over the land, as the manure
left in the trenches will then get better incor-
porated with the whole soil and the succeeding
crop be more regular.

Seakale. — Plant out the main crop, and be care-
ful to plant the best cuttings obtainable. A deep,
rich soil that has been well manured is necessary.
Seeds may be sown also, but good crowns are not
so readily produced in one season from seeds as
from cuttings, neither is the crop so regular. The
variety Lily White is certainly an improvement as
far as colour is concerned, but is not so vigorous
in growth as the more common variety.

Spring Cai6,i^«.— Slightly loosen the soil between
the lines as soon as the plants begin to grow
freely, and afford a sprinkling of nitrate of soda,
which will hasten the crop towards maturity, as
well as increase the size of the heads. Make up
any blanks there may be by lifting plants from
the old seed-bed, choosing a day when the weather
is damp for this purpose. Young plants from
seeds sown at the beginning of the year will now
be ready to be pricked off into frames. These,
when well grown, succeed immediately after those
mentioned above.

Cauliftotuers. — These young plants also will be in
condition for pricking off, and should be encour-
aged to grow as fast as possible, but they must
not be coddled or they will damp ofl'. Use a
compost of some good holding materials that will
be sure to form good " balls " when the plants are
being transferred to the open garden. Those
wintered in frames should be finally hardened off
in readiness for planting, and when this is done
aflford protection by hand lights, inverted flower
pots, or anything that will secure them from '
damage on frosty nights. Scatter a hitle lime
round each stem to protect them against slugs.

THE APIARY.

By Chloris.

How to Spread Brood witliout Danger. — Most
of those who make a practice of spreading
brood do so by inserting a comb in the centre
of the brood chamber, and by placing the feeding
bottle above it. By adopting this plan, we run
a great risk of chilling the brood, and thus
retarding the increase which is so desirable.
During the past season I found another plan
which, my informant told me, had not been
attended in practice by any mishap. It was as.
follows : When the frames, occupied by the
bees, are well filled by the cluster, another frame
is added on one side, the cappings having first
been removed or bruised, then the feeding bottle
of syrup is placed over the frame, and, in about
nine days, the operation is repeated on the-
other side. By adopting this method I was
assured that no misfortune could follow, and
the bees are soon in a very strong condition.

Buying Bees. — If the bees bought be in a
skep, place them in their permanent position
immediately on receipt, with the opening
towards the south-east. It will be well to feed
in order to stimulate breeding. It is awkward
to feed bees in a skep, but the best way is to
cut a hole in the top not less than 2 inches wide
and place the bottle over it. Cover the whole
up warmly and make it watertight, and also
secure it against being blown over. It is a good
plan to add a sheet of stout brown paper
between the quilts, as brown paper is a bad
conductor of heat, and will thus help to main-
tain a higher temperature within the hives
during the cold weather which often prevails.
before the month of May or even June.

136

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[March 3, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
/or naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR.
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the -.ceek as possible, and duly
signed by the '.writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrutions, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor docs not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor loill be glad to receive andto select
photographs or draivings, suitable for reproductio7i, of
;iordeus, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c. ; but he
icinnot be responsible for lossor injury.

f^iew spapers.—Correspondents sending newspapers should be
caicful to mark tJic paragraphs they tvish the Editor to see.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters -which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY,

TUESDAY,

SATURDAY,

Mar.

Mar. 6

j .^nn. meet. Wakefield Paxton Soc.
' Soc. Frang. d'Hort. de Londres
^ 1 meet,
i German Gard. Soc. meet.
/ Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.
Nat. Rose Soc. Com. meet.

I Complimentary Dinner to Mr.

[ William Marshall.
Mar. lo Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 41-a°.
Actual Temi'Eratures: —

hotlDO^.— Wednesday, Feb. 28 (6 p.m.): Max. 46"; Min.
35°.
Gardeuers' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, l^ondon.— Thursday , March 1 (10
A.M.): Bar., 29.8; Temp., 48"; Wcatlier—Vun,
with occasional sunshine.
VROvmczs.— Wednesday, Feb. 28 (6 p.m.) : Max. 49°
Ireland, South-east Coast ; Min. 35' Scotland N.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Hardy border plants. Perennials, i,8oo Roses, Lilies,
Azaleas, S:c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe
& Morris, at 12.

WEDNESDAY—

Perennials, Herbaceous plants. Lilies, Hardy Bulbs, Roots,
&c., at 12; 3,000 Roses, at I and 3 ; Azaleas and other
plants following, at 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.G., by
Protheroe & Morris,

Sale of Roses, Fruit Trees, Lilies, &c., at Stevens'
Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden, London.

THURSDAY—

820 cases Japanese Lilies, Thousands of Gladiolus,
Davallias, Iris, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by
Protheroe tS: .Morris, at 3.

iFRIDAY'—

Collection of Orchids, 30 Cypripedium Lawrenceanum,
received direct, Disas, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C.,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.45.

In an interesting article in the

Pedigree [^cs/ Indian AgrkuHural News

Sugar the history of raising Sugar-canes

Canes. from seed is briefly given. At a

time well within the memory of
the present generation seedlings of Sugar-
canes had not even been seen, and even
Roxburgh had never seen seeds.

Rumphius, as cited by Alphonse de Candolle,
in his Originc des Plantcs Ciiltivccs, stated that
the Sugar-cane never produced seeds until it
was allowed to remain some years in a stony
locality. The possibility of raising Sugar-canes
from seed was discussed in the West Indies
between 1858 and 1888. Since that time
seedling varieties have been raised which are
found capable of resisting the attacks of
disease, which destroyed the older forms, as
well as of increasing the yield of sugar. By
means of a system of rigorous selection both
in the field and in the laborator\- several good
varieties have been raised, but. at the same
time, even more rigorous elimination has
been found necessary, for the great majority
of the seedlings so raised were found to be

no better than the old ones. In any case
it takes several years before a seedling
cane is sufficiently tested under varying con-
ditions to deserve to be recommended to
planters. Moreover, the variety that is found
suitable for one locality is useless in another.
Cross fertilisation has also been attempted,
but, as it would seem, with doubtful results.
Some varieties it is found do not produce
fertile pollen. Cross fertilisation has been
effected by emasculating the flowers while still
young — a delicate operation obviously — and
transferring b}- means of a camel's hair pencil
the pollen of another variety to the stigma of
the emasculated flower. The resulting seed-
lings raised by Mr. Lewton Brain are the first,
observed in the West Indies, whose parentage
on both sides is a matter of certainty.

Further experiments on a large scale are in
progress under the superintendence of Mr.
Stockdale, so that it is hoped in a few years
that experimenters will be as successful as
raisers of Wheat and other cereals have been
in England, and, like them, will be able to
produce pedigree Sugar - canes as well as
pedigree Wheat or Oats.

Our Supplementary Illustration —
Snowdrops at Home. — There are certain
flowers which only look happy when their sur-
roundings are Nature's, or a good copy of them,
such are Snowdrops, Primroses, Cowslips, Ane-
mones, Daffodils, Heaths, Furze, Ferns, and
many more. One might express it differently and
say that no plant looks happy unless its surround-
ings are natural. Use is second nature, and we
certainly have got used to a great deal in garden-
ing that wants reforming, but reform moves
slowly. Meanwhile we are getting on. We have
wild gardens, water gardens, grass glades, wood-
land walks, natural grouping, and other improve-
ments in the garden, and plants which not
many years ago were only seen in pots and pans
and formal beds are now planted to run wild, as it
were, whilst the hand of the gardener is cun-
ningly veiled. The view of Snowdrops in a wild
garden at Kew, reproduced in the Supplementary
Illustration, should make every gardener decide
to grow Snowdrops in future only in Nature's
way. A bed of such things is as natural as a
waggon-load of monkeys ; pots and pans filled
with them as artistic as the contents of a sardine
tin. Of course, it is not every lover of the Snow-
drop who, desiring to have some of his own,
can give them a big stretch in a wild garden three
acres or so in extent, as is done in the Royal
Gardens, Kew. But our public parks and gardens
might do a great deal more of this sort of thing.
Some day, perhaps, we shall be so far " re-
formed " as to have turfed over all our formal
flower-beds and got into the habit of copying
Nature's best work in everything. Someone re-
marked recently that the flower-bed was a proof
of civilisation, just as are the top hat, tight lacing,
and shaving ! Maybe he was right ; at any rate,
as things are at present we must go in for them
all, although some of us would like to abolish
them. Fashion and what we like to call con-
venience control our gardening efforts ; but let
us, just to show that we are masters of our own
actions, now and then break the bonds, as was
done when we started " wild " gardening. W. XV.

Small Holdings. — The departmental com-
mittee appointed by the President of the Board of
Agriculture and Fisheries to inquire into the sub-
ject of small holdings resumed their sittings on
the 2ist ult. Evidence was given by Mr. J. W.
Willis Bu.nd, chairman of the Worcester County
Council, and Mr. F. Smith, F.S.I., chairman of
the Small Holdings Committee, Worcester County
Council.

George Monro, Limited, Concert Com-
mittee.— The tentli annual Bohemian concert
arranged by this committee was held at the
(Queen's Hall, Langham Place, W., on Thursday
last, the 22nd ult., and was again a great suc-
cess, both numerically and financially. The vast
hall was filled to its utmost capacity, and it was
computed that 1,800 persons were present.

The secretar}', Mr. H. Baker, informs us that
the sale of tickets exceeded any previous record,
and therefore the various gardening charities for
whose special benefit these concert:; are arranged
will in all probability receive a larger amount
than in any previous year.

The programme was indeed a monster one,
and where the artistes engaged were of all-round
excellence, and included such well-known society
entertainers as Miss Martha Cunningham, Miss
Kdxa Thornton, Messrs. Alfred Heather,
Charles Tree, McCall Chambers, Will
Edwards, R. H. Douglas, and James Godden,
it may seem invidious to mention any one
specially ; but we cannot refrain from saying
that Miss Edna Thornton's singing of '' Land
of Hope and Glory," accompanied by the Cold-
stream Guards' band (Conductor, Lieut. J.
Mackenzie Rogan), was a musical treat well
worth a long journey.

During the evening the Chairman, Geo.
iloNRO, Esq., who was supported by many of
the leading men in the horticultural world, was
presented by the Committee with a handsome
brass and copper table gong, suitably inscribed,
and we noted he used it with great success during
the evening.

Italian Gar DENS. — Messrs. Longmans, Green
& Co. have just issued a prospectus of a very fine
work they are about to publish, entitled " The Art
o£ Garden Design in Italy," by H. Inigo Triggs,
A.R.I.B.A. It is dedicated by special permission
to H.M. Queen Margherita of Italy, and will
consist of a handsome volume folio with 128 plates,
17 inches by 13 inches, of which 73 are rsproduced
in collotype. The first part of the work consists
of an historical essay on garden planning from
the days of the Roman Republic through the
Imperial Age to the Middle Ages down to the
early Renaissance. The second part is a series of
descriptive accounts of the principal villas still
remaining — Isola Bella, Villa d'Este, Villa Car-
lotta, Boboli Gardens, Villa Campi, the Quirinal,
the Vatican Gardens, Villa Borghese, Villa Pam-
phili. Villa Medici, and Villa Lante.

Dishonest Trade Marks. — A Canadian fruit
grower was convicted in January last of having in
his possession 50 barrels of apples marked XXX.,
but which were below the standard required. The
case was proved, and the chief of the fruit division
said that the man who deliberately marked pack-
ages falsely committed a crime against society.
The magistrate imposed a fine of 50 dollars and
costs, or imprisonment for 30 days in the common
jail.

"Gardening Year - Book and Garden
Oracle." — I\Ir. George Gordon, editor of the
Gardeners' Magazine, has again issued this annual,
now so well appreciated. It includes an almanack
and diary, many gardening articles and notes, and
plenty of pictures. The frontispiece is a pretty
coloured plate of the hybrid Wichuriana Rose,
Pink Rambler.

The Magazine of Fine Arts. — The Feb-
ruary number contains an illustrated account of
the famous illustrated manuscript bought by Mr.
QuARiTCH at the sale of the Earl of Cork's
library. The price paid was no less than /2,6oo,
but the book is unique. In this volume, the title
of which is Le Livre de Rusiican dcs Piouffits Cham-
pcstres. the people and the life of the fields of 500
years ago are represented with a beauty and care
that is charming and instructive. We see the

March 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

137

castles, farms, fields, gardens, implements, the
manner of working ; in fact, everything relating to
country life in mediaeval times ; and in more than
line occupation the method practised then is similar
to that in use to-day. ' By way of illustration a
figure is given showing some men engaged in
grafting. In another plate the process of house-
building and thatching is depicted ; in others
various agricultural and gardening operations.
Nothing is known of the author of the book nor
of the illuminator whose art is so highly estimated
by our contemporary.

"The Year-Book of New South Wales. ■

— This annual, issued under the auspices of the
Agent-General in London, is as usual full of
useful information concerning New South Wales
and its resources. There is a short article on
forestry, and the agricultural industry is also
dealt with. As the Year-Book bears reference to
the whole Colony, its government, history, pre-
sent status, products, industries, and even the
postal regulations, it will be understood that each
.subject can be but briefly dealt with. It should
prove as valuable for reference as previous issues
have been.

Railway Reforms.— At present a ci m nittee,
presided over by Lord Jersey, is enqinnng into
the question of preferential rates given by
railway companies to foreign produce. It is
expected that a report will be presented to Par-
liament at an early date. To tackle the ques-
tion of reform in connection with many other
railway matters a most influential committee
has recently been formed, known as the Joint
Railway and Parliamentary Committee. It con-
sists of representatives from the National Fruit
Growers' Association, the London Chamber of
Commerce (G»een Fruit Section), the Federation
of Grocers' Associations, Meat Traders' Associa-
tions, the Horticultural Trades, the Potato
Trades, and others. The president is Mr.
George Monro, and meetings are held every
week at the Tavistock Hotel, Covent Garden,
W.C. The necessity for action has been brought
about by a huge combination among the rail-
way companies and the formation by them of a
Joint Claims Committee. Nothing was ever de-
vised by the railway companies of Great Britain
which has been, and is, such a source of irri-
tation to traders as this Joint Claims Committee.
The railways have, in many cases, two classes
of rates, a " company's risk " rate and an
" owner's risk " rale. The former means that
the railways carry the goods as ordinary car-
riers, and aie responsible for damage and loss.
•' Owner's risk " used to mean that the com-
panies at least were responsible for delivering
the goods in some shape or form, but since
the combination and the advent of the Joint
Claims Committee they do not even undertake
that liability. Cases are on record where they
delivered several parcels less than they received ;
where they delivered them to a wrong station ;
where they set fire to a truck of bananas and
-some cases of plants and offered the consignee
the charred remains. In all these instances
when claims for damages were sent in the Joint
Claims Committee said: "No liability; goods
consigned at owner's risk." To contest these
decisions of the Railway Companie-s' Committee
the trader has to fight the combined railway
companies of the kingdom in the Law Courts
at enormous cost. In the report of the Depart-
mental Commitlee on Fruit Culture it is stated
that " this action of the railway companies may
not be illegal, but it has caused, g/eat irritation
among growers all over the kingdom." The
difference betwe-:>n " company's- risk " rates and
" owner's risk " rates varies from something like
7^- per cent, to 50 per cent., but even the^reatest
difference should not imply that the railways
are at liberty to do what thev like with the./'oods

entrusted to them. Compensation claims used
to be entertained, too, for loss of markets, but
that also is a thing of the past, unless the
sender can prove "wilful misconduct." It was
shown before the Departmental Committee just
referred to that if the owner's risk rates were
slightly raised, say, by 5 per cent, (which Mr.
Vincent Hill suggested was the proper dif-
ference between them and company's risk rates,
though the actual difference is generally much
more, and varies enormously I, and if all fruit,
both by passenger and goods trains, was carried
at company's risk in future, growers would gladly
pay the small extra amount. The development of
felite culture in all its branches is one of the
most hopeful lines along which to look for
help in the solution of the " unemployed " and
" back to the land " problems, and better rail-
way facilities would go a long way to help such
development. It is singular that exactly the
same questions affecting railway management
are attracting the serious attention of traders in
the United States. There, the strenuous Presi-
dent, Mr. Roosevelt, is interesting himself in
the matter. It is hoped that Mr. Lloyd George,
M.P., President of the Board of Trade,
will emulate Preside-nt Roosevelt in this, and
tackle the subject. In an article in the Feb-
ruary Cenlury Magazine, the following appears :
" This is what has happened, and is happen-
ing, in all parts of the States. Where there is
not absolute identity of ownership in the rail-
ways serving different markets, that ownership
is so concentrated that it has become possible
for the owners of different properties to sit down
in conference and determine that ' suicidal com.
petition ' shall no longer prevail. With notable
exceptions, market competition can ho longer
be relied upon either to reduce rates or to pre-
vent their advance. ... As a result, rates
upon almost every staple article have, within
the last five years, been materially advanced.
. . . If the railway imposes upon me an
unjust charge for the transportation of my per-
son or my property, it violates the law, pre-
cisely as I should do if I oeclined to pay a
reasonable charge for that transportation," says
the American writer. So says the British
trader, and to get a more accessible tribunal, a
less costly tribunal, and a tribunal more in
touch with commercial methods, he means to
go to Parliament.

Sugar Beet Experiments.— The high price
of sugar m 1904, and the exclusion of bounty fed
sugar from the English market have had the
effect of again bringing into prominence the
question which has for many years been much
discussed as to the advantage of manufacturing
sugar in this country from home-grown Sugar
Beet. The Essex Education Committee have
therefore conducted certain experiments in order
to find the yield and quality of the Beet grown on
typical soils and to compare some varieties. The
results show that Beets have been grown equal to
and in some cases better in quality than those pro-
duced in sugar-making countries. It would seem,
therefore, that a new and profitable industry has
been but too long neglected. The business side
of the question— the cost of production and the
consideration of the local conditions prevailing in
the Eastern counties, the cost of working a factory,
and a host of similar points, need, however, care-
ful and experienced consideration. Mr. George
Cl.^rke, who has assisted in preparing the Report
from which we now quote, issues the warning that
nothing would be more disastrous both to farmer
and to capitalist investing his money in the erect-
ing of plant, than for the former to embark on the
cultivation of Sugar Beet on an extensive scale
without a proper knowledge of the best methods
of cultivation, the varieties best suited to his par-
ticular .neighbourhood, :^d the amo'.mt it would

cost him to grow the crop. Still, there seems to
be no reason, if due consideration be given to all
these details, why a properly initiated undertaking
should not be remunerative both to the farmer
and the manufacturer. As regards an unsuccessful
effort in this direction started some 30 years ago,
it is noted that the mean percentage of sugar
in the Beet used was 10.0. The mean of over 80
samples from different plots grown in Essex in
rgoj is slightly over i(5i per cent, of sugar. This
is a striking illustration of the improvement in the
quality that can be brought about by careful selec-
tion along the right lines. Cultivation is a matter
fully as important as the choice of the best varie-
ties of Beet, and the subject of manuring also
requires careful study. In the experimental plots
it was found that the sugar content was consider-
ably increased by the use of sulphate of potash .
For further details of these important trials
readers should consult the pages of the Report,
which is fully and instructively illustrated. It
maybe had from the County Technical Laboratory,
Chelmsford.

Mythical Plants.— The astonishing stories
that are occasionally reproduced in the lay
jcurnals are a source of amusement to botanists
and gardeners who are apt to wonder whether
the information supplied on matters outside
their own department is as untrustworthy
as that relating to the subjects of
which they have first-hand knowledge. Dr.
(_;eokge a. Grierson writes from Cam-
btrley under date of January 6th:— "In Ti'ir
Times of to-day your Calcutta correspondent,
in describing the visit of the Tashi Lama to
Bodh (not Buddh) Gaya, says — ' One can im-
agine the feelings with wliich he solemnised
the mysteries of his religion under the spread-
ing branches of the same venerable Bo tree :)f
Buddh Gaya, beneath which, according to
Buddhist tradition, Gautama himself received
enlightenment.' I was for five years magistrate
of Gaya, and probably know the temple and
tree at Bodh-Gaya as well as most people. In
the interests of historical accuracy permit me
to point out that the existing Bo tree, or Bodhi-
druma as it is called in India, has not spread-
ing branches, is not venerable, and is not the
same tree as that under which Gautama is said
to have received enlightenment. The existing
tree was planted in 1876, being a seedling from
its predecessor. When I last saw it, some eiglit
years ago, it may have been 20ft. -high, and
had no spreading branches. It is a ' peepul '
(Ficus religiosaj, a quick-growing, short-lived
tree, and, even if its history were not perfectly
well known, it could not possibly be the iden-
tical one under which the Buddha sat. Ac-
cording to tradition, the original tree was cut
down by the Emperor Asoka (say, 250 B.C.),
and is said to have been destroyed a second
time by his Queen after it had been miracu-
lously restored. The Chinese pilgrim Yuan
Chwang tells of another persecuting monarch,
by name Sasanka, who cut down its successor
of the seventh century a.d., and dug up most
of the roots. ' Then he burnt it with fire and
sprinkled it with the juice of the sugar-cane,
desiring to destroy it entirely, and not leave .1
trace of it behind.' Shortly afterwards, a pious
local Raja, 'with the milk of a thousand cows
again bathed the roots of the tree, and in a
night it once more revived and gtew to the
height of some ten feet.' Dr. Buch.4Nan
H.4MILTQN saw the tree about the year 1811.
According to him :— ' The tree is in full vigour,
and cannot in all probability exceed 100 years
of age; but a similar one may »'have existed in
the same place, when the temple was entire.'
The penultimate Bodhi-druma, which was the
one seen by Dr. H.^milton, was biown down
by a storm in 1876, and its successor, the present
trae, wie planted in its place by Mr. Begl.vr,

138

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3, 1906.

who was then in charge of the restoration of
the temple. At this time it was worshipped
both by Hindus and Buddhists. I believe that
I am correct in stating that Mr. Beglae planted
two seedlings, one on the original site for the
Buddhists, and another a short distance off for
the Hindus, and that both trees are now in ex-
istence. General Cunningham was of opinion
that there must have been ' a long succession
of fresh trees raised from seed, from the time
of Asoka down to the present day. Perhaps
as many as 12 or 15, or even 20, to meet the
frequent destruction to which it was exposed.' "

The Fixation of Nitrogen.— Professor Sil-
VANUS Tho.mpson, in lecturing at the Royal In-
stitution on this subject, began by emphasising
the enormous practical importance ot tne ques-
tion in connection with the wheat supply of the
world. The demand for wheat by the white
races increased every year with increase of
population. But the acreage of land devoted
to wheat-growing did not increase at an equal
rate, and in any case, being limited by cli-
matic conditions, would all be taken up in a
comparatively small number of years, perhaps
less than 30. When that condition of affairs
was reached there must be a wheat famine,
unless, as Sir William Ckookes pointed out
to the British Association in 1898, the world's
yield per acre (at present about 12.7 bushels)
could be increased by the use of fertilisers.
Wheat required some fertiliser containing
fixed nitrogen, and the chief substance of the
kind now available was nitrate of soda, ob-
tained from the nitre beds of Chile. The de-
mand for this had practically doubled since
1890, and in 1905 was over a million and a
half tons ; at the present rate of consumption
the supply would be exhausted in less' than 50
years. Then the only chance of averting star-
vation from the races for which wheat was the
staple food would be, as Crookes pointed out,
through the laboratory, through chemists dis-
covering some method by which at a suffi-
ciently cheap rate the free nitrogen of the at-
mosphere could be fixed in a form that could
be utilised by the wheat plant. Experiment
showed that the nitrate of lime produced by
electric means by Bikkeland and Eyde, of
Christiania, was as good a fertiliser as Chile
saltpetre. The conditions in Norway were ex-
ceptionally good for furnishing cheap electric
power. Hence the new " Norwegian saltpetre "
could compete with the imported saltpetre from
Chile, and would every year become more
valuable as the demand for nitrates increased
and the natural supplies became exhausted.

Costa Rica. — The ninth volume of the^«a/es
del Insiituio Fisico-Geographico Nacional dc Costa
Rica, of which Dr. Pittier is the Director, has
been published. It contains detailed meteoro-
logical observations on climate for the year 1896,
which are important for cultivators of plants. A
partial enumeration of the flowering plants by
Captain Donnell Smith follows, together with
a monographic sketch of the Piperaceae by M.
('asimir de Candolle. The Acanthace^ are
enumerated by M. G. Lindau, the Euphor-
biaceae by Prof. Pax, and the Aracese by Dr.
Kngler. The general character of the flora
shows a closer relation to the flora of Northern
South America tn-., to that of Mexico.

The Uses and Misuses of Manure. — The

Dorset County Council has published a report on
the Soils of Dorset, by Professor John Percival,
that contains some valuable information concern-
ing plant foods and manures. In iSgS the Univer-
sity College, Reading, undertook to analyse lOo
samples of soil from various parts of the county of
Dorset and to report upon them. This was done
partly by Mr. Jeffreys and Dr. Luxmoore, as
well as by Professor Perciv.al (Director of the

Agricultural Department of the college), who now
issues this summary of the results obtained, which
should have an immediate interest to farmers in
the county and elsewhere. Briefly, manures are
applied to soil to supply constituents lacking from
it and necessary for certain crops. Such plant-
food, therefore, must be given as is naturally
deficient in the land to which it is applied, and,
further, such as is required and can be assimilated by
the crops to be grown thereon. Toapply manures
whose effect is to neutralise each other, or which
are unsuitable to the soil and to plants, is unneces-
sary labour and a waste of resources. The details
concerning the use of nitrogenous, phosphatic,
and potassic manuresare very valuable, and should
be carefully studied by all who are contemplating
the employment of artificial manures.

Commercial Research in txhe Tropics. —
An institute has been formed in connection with
the University of Liverpool for the purpose of
collecting and co-ordinating information of all
kinds relating to commercial products, or sub-
stances used in manufactures, and of supplying
scientific information to all interested in commerce.
These objects are carried out by means of scientific
explorations, research work in the laboratories and
museums of the University and of the city. The
Department of Economic Botany is under the
direction of Dr. Eric Drabble, that of Economic
Zoology has Mr. Newstead on its staff as Econo-
mic Entomologist, and there are numerous other
experts dealing with chemistry and other sciences.
The first part of a journal, which is to be issued
quarterly, is now before us. It contains full
details as to the work of the Institute. The ex-
periments of Messrs. Garton on the improvement
of Cereals and other plants will be subjected to
exhaustive examination, and a report thereon is
announced as nearing completion.

The almond. — The first fiowerson an Almond
tree in a favourable position in Wandsworth,
south-w-est of London, expanded fully on Wed-
nesday last, February 28, as against March 7 last
year, and March 21 in 1904.

Sucar-cane Experiments in the Leeward
Islands. — We note the publication of the first
part of the report on Sugar-cane e.\periments con-
ducted at Antigua and St. Ivitts in 1904-5. Trials
were made of varieties of Sugar-cane to prove
which were of most value for certain districts.
Good results were obtained, though very severe
drought, particularly in Antigua, was a serious
drawback. The report is drawn up under the
superintendence of the chemist in charge of ex-
periments, the Hon. Dr. Francis Watts, and
contains a brief introductory letter by Sir D.
Morris.

United Horticultural Benefit and
Provident. — The annual general meeting of
this society will be held at the Horticultural Hall,
Vincent Square, Westminster, S.W., on Monday,
March 12, 1906, at 8 p.m. Mr. H. B. May will
preside. The committee hope that as many mem-
bers as possible will endeavour to be present.

The Royal Horticultural Society is
forming a collection of the best varieties of Grape
vines at Wisley. All that are wanted have been
met with except Diamant Traube and White Nice,
and for these the secretary and the superintendent
have inquired in many quarters but failed to find
them. The society would be most giateful to
anyone who can supply information of their being
still in cultivation, and from whom they may be
obtained. It is a thousand pities that two such
varieties should perish off the earth. Will foreign
and American Horticultural papers be so kind as
to copy this note? If. Wilhs, Sec. R.H.S.

Bird-Lime for Catching Rats. — Mr. C.
Drieberg, Superintendent of School Gardens,
Colombo, writes as follows in the Tropical Agri-
cnlturist for January : — " It is not generally known

how readily rats may be caught by means of bird-
lime. If it is desired to make a colony desert their
burrows it is only necessary to smear a little round
the entrances. If it is desired to catch them, the
best way is to dress plenty of straw and spread
this thickly on the ground around the burrows.
Among the straw throw some attractive bait.
When the spot is visited next morning the straws-
will be found gathered up in little bundles, and in
the centre of each will be found a rat, alive or
dead, according to the extent of its entanglement.
If the bird-lime is to be used indoors take a piece
of stiff brown paper and put the sticky stuff in the
centre. Bird-lime can be easily made by boiling
down linseed oil. Put the oil into a tin, place the
tin in a saucepan of water, and let it boil slowly
till it is of the right thickness or stickiness."

Para Rubber in Singapore. — We have re-
ceived the first annual report by Messrs. H. N.
Ridley and R. Derry on experiments in rubber-
tapping made in the Botanic Gardens, Singapore.
Certain important facts as to the growth of trees,
yield of rubber, best methods of procuring and
preparing latex were ascertained, and the records
form a valuable basis for continued researches.
The work was most sedulously carried out, and the
rubber obtained fetched on sale in all cases the
highest price in the market at the time, showing
the care taken in its preparation.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

(Continued from page 101.)
The Flora of the District.
Our knowledge of the flora of this neighbour-
hood is considerable, thanks to the labour of
Pere Soulie, Mr. A. E. Pratt, Prince Henri
d'Orleans, Pere Faurie, Pere Mussott, and the
Russian traveller, Potanin. Hcmsl-ey, in his
"Flora of Tibet or High Asia" (Journal Linn.
Soc, Vol. xxxv.), speaking of the flora of this
neighbourhood, says : " In character it is essen-
tially Himalayan or Indo-Chinese, and is quite
distinct from that of Tibet proper." Anyone
who has had the opportunity of botanising in
this region, or of examining the collections made
there, must certainly agree with this statement.
The Sikkim-Himalayan element is very strik-
ing, even to a casual observer. In point of
numbers, two of the commonest plants are
Primula sikkimensis and Podophyllum Emodi,
both of which are common in Sikkim.

Tatien-lu, it may be said, is situated on the
extreme edge of the Himalayan highlands, and
less than a day's journey in a westerly or north-
westerly direction brings one to the luxuriant
pastures of the Tibetan uplands. These pas-
tures support huge herds of yak and sheep.
Around the town, an occasional field of wheat,
barley, or Irish potato is all the cultivation one
sees. These fields are usually fenced by hedges
composed almost entirely of the wild Goose-
berry. The only trees are Populus euphratica,
with an occasional Spruce Fir and Walnut.

It was on the evening of July 14, 1903, that I
arrived at Tatien-lu alter a circuitous and
arduous journey of 20 days. I took up quarters
in the same dilapidated Tibetan inn that had
lodged all travellers from the time of Gill and
Baber downwards. Two days later I left for a
trip to the snowy range south-west of the town.
On this journey I was accompanied by Mr.
Edgar, of the China Inland Mission, in whom
I found a delightful companion. To this gentle-
man and his colleague, Mr. Moyes, I am much
indebted, and it is with feelings of deep grati-
tude that I recall the many acts of kindness I
received at the hands of these estimable gentle-
men.

Leaving by the South Gate, we followed the
main road to Lhassa — a broad, well-paved road.
Crossing a stone bridge, situated a short dis-
tance above the site of the old town, we entered
the nondescript country of Djiala. Soon after-

March 3, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

139

wards, sheltered beneath magnificent groves of
lofty Poplar (P. euphratica), we passed two large
Lamaseries and a building containing many
prayer cylinders, each with numerous prayer-
flags flying from their roofs. Large cairns of
stones, surmounted with tiny prayer-flags ; slabs
of slate or marble, and tiny cones of dried mud,
all with prayers inscribed thereon. These, to
mention nothing else, were sufficient to remind
us that we were in the hierarchy of Lamaism.
Herdsmen, with their yak and sheep ; women
and children gathering fuel, harvesting grain,
or performing ordinary household duties, all
chant, in a not unmusical voice, their universal
prayer, " Om mnni fadmi hum."

About two miles from Tatien-lu we left the
main road and followed the left bank of the
River Lu, crossing over to the right bank soon
afterwards by a rickety wooden bridge. A little
above this bridge the stream bifurcates — one
branch rising in the Cheh — To pass over which
the road to Batang crosses ; and the other in
the snow-clad peaks flanking the Ya-chia-kang,
our destination.

Our road was through lovely grassy country,
with a very steady rise. A wealth of many-
coloured herbs enlivened the path ; various
species of Pedicularis, with white, red, pink,
and golden flowers, were particularly abundant,
more especially where the country is marshy.
In these same marshy places. Primula vittata.
V. Poissoni, Lilium Duchartrei, and a species
of Parnassia abound. In less marshy, but by
no means dry, meadows, a Primula (P. Cock-
burniaua), with wonderful orangc-rcd flowers,
occurred in thousands ! (See Giird,:iicrs' Chronicle,
May 27, 1905, Fig. 137.) In fairly dry places,
clumps of a yellow-flowered Cypripedium (C.
luteum) were conspicuous. The flowers of this,
fine Cypripedium are nearly as large as those
of t'. macranthum, and of a clear yellow colour
throughout, though occasionally an odd flower
or two is seen in which the Up is brownish.
In addition to these, we saw Morina Delavayi,
with white, pink, or purple flowers, Pseonia
anomala, and various Composites and Labiates
in abundance. Bushes of Lonicera, Spiraea.
Hydrangea, Berberis, Rhododendron, and
Viburnum, stunted and scrubby in appearance,
are lommon ; and over these trail two species
of Clematis, with a wealth of yellowish-white
fragrant flowers.

Passing the king's summer palace, a very un-
regal looking place, with a filthy exterior, we
reached a tiny stream, and lunched there. Ther-
mal springs are common hereabouts ; in some
of these the water is naturally boiling. Near
our luncheon place were several huge prayer
cylinders fixed to horizontal wheels, and turned
by the water of the stream.

On restarting, we continued thruugh similar
country, with a fine snow-clad peak straight in
front of us, and another to our left, and soon
reached two or three Tibetan farmsteads {alt.
10,000 feet), where a little barley is cuftivated.
lust beyond this tiny hamlet we commenced a
steep descent of a thousand feet, through a
dense thicket of Rhododendrons, dwarf ever-
green Oaks, Berberis, Hippophae rhanmoides,
with a few trees of Larch, Silver Fir, and Spruce
interspersed. Herbs abound : a species of Iris,
with large, dark, violet-blue flowers, Trollius
.s unnanensis. Podophyllum Emodi, Parnassia
sp., various Composites and Umbelliferce being
perhaps the more striking. Less conspicuous,
but none the less interesting, were Primula
deflexa, and two other species, Fragaria filipen-
dula, with luscious fruits, -"Vjuga ovalifolia, with
lovely blue flowers, various species of Pedicu-
laris, and many terrestrial Orchids.

On clearing thi? interesting belt, we soon
reached a house, or, rather, the remains of one,
for fully half of the roof was missing, tenanted
by an old drone and her idiot daughter. We
had agreed to make this point our base, and
made arrangements accordingly. The old
woman having agreed to accommodate our fol-
lowerSj V.-3 selected a convenient spot near by

on which to pitch a tent for ourselves. Our
baggage coolies and men not having arrived, we
thought we would beguile the time by having a
look around. Rain, which had fallen in fitful
showers during the whole day, commenced again
as we set out, and we were less than half a
mile from the house when it fell in torrents,
quickly drenching us to the skin. It was more
of the nature of hail than rain, and hurt as it
struck one's face. My poor dog howled and
shivered with cold. The yak and their hardy
herdsmen did not seem to mind the raging ele-
ments in tlie least, but we were benumbed with
cold. Hurrying back with al'l speed to our
shelter, with visions of hot tea and dry clothing,
we were far from anticipating what really
awaited us. The altitude had affected our men,
and they were in a sorry plight, only two being
in any sense fit to do anything. Our cook — the
most important man for the moment — lay
stretched out on a plank with his head swathed
in bandages. With difficulty we managed to
get out of him what was wrong. He said " his
head was swmmiing and throbbing, his heart
palpitating sixteen to the dozen, and that a
general paralysis had seized his legs, and more
particularly his knees." Lifting him up on his

CjA(<DCHRpK,

Fig. jj - iv.>L'iiLi-; floweks of the winter .\co.nite.

legs, we gave him a stiff dram of brandy, but
the moment we loosed him he sank into a heap
on the floor. It was hopeless to expect any-
thing from him, so for the moment we let him
go. Whilst I acted as family doctor, my com-
panion and the two men in good health at-
tempted to fix up the tent outside — meanwhile
rain, hail and sleet descended in torrents. After
half-an-hour's struggle, the rain and wind con-
quered, and the task of rigging the tent outside
had to be abandoned. There being no possible
place to sleep inside, free from rain, the only
thing left was to fix the tent up inside the
house, the floor of which, owing to the absence
of part of the roof, being already a quagmire.
At length it was put up somehow, our beds
were arranged beneath it, and oil-sheets placed
over the top, as the thin cloth did not pretend
to be waterproof. Next we built a fire in the
driest part of the house we could find, and all
huddled around it to get warm and dry. After
a time, we managed to get some hot tea, and
with this and ship's biscuit and cheese made a
hearty supper.

Having dene all we could for our men, and
lent them what spare clothing we had, we
sought our beds about 11 p.m. By this time
eiur tent was soaked through, in spite of the oij..

sheets ; the wind and rain continued without
mercy, and did not cease in violence until
6 o'clock next morning. Having at length
got rid of our soaked garments — a difficult
enough task under the circumstances — wo even-
tually got between the blankets. No sooner had
I lay down than drip came a spot of rain
into my eye ; I turned over, and drip came
another into my ear. I twisted this way and
that way, but there was no escape. .. Like evil
genii these rain-drops pursued me turn which
way I would. I could not move my bed, since
this was longer than the tent was broad, and
my feet already exposed, and we were sorely
afraid the whole thing might collapse, it being
anything but secure. My companion was in a
similar plight, and there being no escape, we;
buried our heads beneath the blankets and tried
to get to sleep. Our sleep was fitful and dis-
turbed. About 2 a.m. I awoke to find th.-it my
blanket had slipped over on to the floor; pull-
ing it over me again I disturbed four half,
drowned chickens whom my thoughtless men
had tied to a post alongside my bed. These
chickens resenting the loss of the blanket tried
to follow it, and succeeded in nearly blinding
me with mud.

About 4 a.m. our firewood gave out, and
things assumed a very dismal aspect. How-
ever, all things have an end ; day at length
dawned, and all were devoutly thankful. On
getting up, wo found that our beds were soaked
through and through, and our blankets plastered
with mud. With what fire remained we man-
aged to boil some water and make some tea.
We breakfasted on ship's biscuits and cheese,
and felt none the worse for the night's ex-
perience. E. H. Wilson.

(To be continued.)

THE DOUBLE WINTER ACONITE.
One of the most delightful of our Spring visit-
ants is the winter Aconite, Eranthis hyemalis, with
its frill of green leaves surrounding its yellow
petals. The double form in which petals take the
place of stamens is not so commonly met with.
Nevertheless, it amply deserves to be more fully
known, on which account we give an illustration
of it, taken from a photograph by Mr. H. A.
Smith, of Lewisham.

THE ST. LOUIS EXHIBITION.

The official report of His Majesty's Commis-
sioners for this exhibition has been published-
It gives the history of the undertaking, and
details the steps taken by our own Government
to secure that British products should be (as
far as the Customs regulations would permit)
adequately represented. One great hindrance
alike to the exhibition and to trade in general
lies in the most oppressive fiscal regulations
which the United States Government deems de-
sirable iu the interest of its own manufacturers
and producers. These effectually prevented
some of our manufacturers from exhibiting as
they would have done. It is doubtful whether
the advantages to the citizens of the U.S. out-
weigh the annoyances to which, not only
foreigners, but they themselves are subjected by
the vexations of their Custom House regulations.

These are dealt with at p. 15 and p. 167 of
the Report, and again in the Report of the
Art Committee, from which we extract the fol-
lowing lemarks : —

"The great difficulties resulting from the stringent nature
of the regulations of the United States Government in re-
gard to works of art and industry from foreign countries are
fully dealt with in a separate report by Sir C. M. Watson.
It may, however, be mentioned in this connection that
before the packing of our works of art could be commenced
no less than ten separate forms, containing miscellaneous
information, had to be examined and approved in various
departments of the U.S. Custom House.

" It is, however, satisfactory to note that, in the face of
very exceptional obstacles. Great Britain was the first to

140

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3, 1906.

complete the dismantling of her Art Section, and it was well
on its way to New York before permission had been obtained
by some of the other foreign art departments to begin the
work of packing."

The Departments of Horticulture and Forestry
Vere officially represented by Mr. H. J. Elwes,
F.R.S., from whose report we extract the fol-
lowing particulars:^ —

" Cannas were the only gronp of plants which really made
^ great show at the time when the jury was sitting, and
these, favoured by the warmth of the climate, were much
?«uperiorto what I have seen in England, though the indivi-
dual varieties and novelties were perhaps not finer than
what have been raised and grown in the South of France.

" The one striking exception to the general uniformity of
the ornamental bedding was an extremely fine collection of
Water Lilies and other aquatic plants exhibited by Messrs.
Dreer, of Philadelphia, which filled a large pond^ and were,
in my opinion, by far the most meritorious exhibit in this
section, r^

"The foreign exhibits in these classes mostly took the
form of gardens surrounding the pavilions and buildings of
their respective countries, and though they contained fairly
representative collections of annuals, lawn-grasses, Roses,
shrubs, and trained fruit-trees, in which latter the French
were supreme, I saw nothing, except a fine collection of
Cacti from Mexico, which calls for any special remark.

■' The British garden was designed by one of our most
able landscape gardeners, Mr. Goldring, of Kew, and his
designs were carried out by his representative, Mr. T. W.
Brown, in a manner which did the greatest credit to his
horticultural skill and taste. The materials at his disposal,
which consisted, with few exceptions, of common bedding
plants and annuals, were made the most of under extremely
difficult and trying conditions of soil and climate. The
general efi"ect of thq British garden was good, and quite in
keeping with the style of architecture of the Royal pavilion.
The trained Yew trees and other examples of the topiary
art sent by Messrs. Wm. Cutbush and Son, of Highgate,
were much admired.

" The French garden, which was of great size, and admir-
ably laid out by M. Vacheraux, of the Municipality of the
City of Paris, contained many collections of Roses, fruit
trees and shrubs ; and was in most respects the largest and
best exhibit made in this department by any foreign
country.

" The Japanese garden, designed and laid out by Mr. Y.
Itchikawa, of the Japanese Commission, was also quite
national in its character, and contained a considerable
number of dwarf-trained trees, in the cultivation of which
the Japanese .have such a world-wide fame, but the difi&-
culties of transit over so great a distance had, to some
extent, marred his efforts; and coming, as I did, straight
from Japan, I was not so much impressed as I should other-
wise have been, because the spring and early summer is
the time at which Japanese gardens are at their best, and
most of the flowering Plants such as Irises, Lilies and
Pceonies had lost their beauty in September, whilst Chrysan-
themums had hardly begun to flower.

Fruits, etc.
"In the fruit classes the wonderful development of
American horticulture was splendidly represented. The
Horticultural Building, covering nearly four acres of ground,
was in the month of May filled with a collection of fruit,
preserved mostly by cold storage from the previous year, of
an extent, variety, and quality which no other country could
equal. It was arranged in State exhibits, and was constantly
replenished by fresh arrivals from time to time as the new
season's fruit ripened."

English hxhieitors.

" The following firms contributed selections of plants and
seeds in accordance with suggestions which were made to
them as to the description of flowers required ; —

" Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Carter & Co., J. Cheal & Sons,
W. Cutbush & Son, Hobbies, Ltd., Kelway & Son, Sutton &
Sons, Sander & Sons, Mr. John Forbes, and Mr. Amos Perry.

" The plants and seeds were forwarded to St. Louis during
the autumn of 1903, where arrangements were made for their
propagation and display at their proper season. The trees
required for forming the ' Pleached .\lley ' and the outer
boundary of the garden, as well as a large number of shrubs,
flowering and otherwise, were purchased in the United
States, the transportation from England of so large a quantity
of growing trees being impracticable in the time. The
garden, with its large variety of flowers thus exhibited,
throughout the period of the Exhibition was greatly admired,
and was a source of considerable attraction to visitors as an
example of the methods of treating a garden in accordance
with the architecture of the building it surrounded. Sixty
large clipped Yew and Box trees (topiary work), which were
lent by Messrs. Cutbush and Sons to be placed on tlie
terrace of the pavilion and in other appropriate positions in
the garden, were of great interest, this branch of horti-
culture being almost unknown in the United States. These
trees were sent out under special arrangement with the
steamship company to St. Louis at the latest possible date
to arrive in time for the opening of the Exhibition, as it was
feared they would be damaged by the severe frost prevail-
ing in the early spring, and those which remained unsold
were, for the samj reason, despatched immediately the
Exhibition closed.

" At the close of the Exhibition, the garden, with the trees,
shrubs, grass lawns, fountains, vases and seats, was handed
over to the Washington University of St. Louis, which o^ais

the land, and will be maintained by that body until the
ground is required for other purposes.

" In the Horticultural Building a series of photograph sand
a plan of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, were exhibited
by the Board of Agriculture and Fisheries, these being
afterwards presented to the Missouri Botanical Garden,
St. Louis."

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Edilor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)
Onions (see p. 128). — Certainly Onions were
known in Britain in Anglo-Saxon times. In the
Sth century Epinal Glossary we have ' ' ascalonium
ynnelaec " (i.e. Onion leek), to distinguish it from
" allium-garlec " (i.e. spear leek). See Gardeners'
Chronicle Nov. 3, 1S88, p. 502. H. N. Ellacombc.

Foreign Apples. — Being a very bad Apple
year we are purchasing foreign fruits in barrels.
Although these are tightly packed and are very
much bruised and compressed, one seldom finds
them rotten. Are they treated with a fungicide
before being packed ? Because, if an English
Apple is stored with the least bruise decay sets in
at once. J . S. Foudey.

Hydrocyanic Acid Gas. — The use of hydro-
cyanic gas as an insecticide (see p. 88) requires
discussion in order to get at the best means of
generating it, the quantities to use, and its
effect on vegetation. I am indebted to Mr.
Storrie, of Dundee, for practical instruction in
its use, but I have not employed it so e.xten-
sively as he has. At present I am vaporising
several houses, vineries at rest, into which a
few plants that are subject to mealy bug and to
Eucharis mite are placed to undergo treatment.
I am using for each 1,000 cubic feet 4 ounces
cyanide of potassium at 98 per cent., 8 ounces
sulphuric acid, and 16 ounces water. I proceed
in the following manner ; — Large flat earthen-
ware basins are used as vaporisers, the proper
quantity of water is measured into each, then a
bottle of acid containing the exact quantity is
decanted into the water, and last of all the
cyanide, which is tied in brown paper, is
popped in one after the other as quickly as pos-
sible. The value of the paper consists in its de-
laying the production of gas long enough to
enable the operator to get outside without fear
of inhaling it to the least degree, which, if not
dangerous, may result in a bad headache. A
3'J-ounce strength of cyanide destroys mealy
bug, but it is to be borne in mind that it has not
been proved to destroy eggs of insects, and
though every insect may be destroyed one need
not be surprised when vaporing in the season
of growth if in ten days or a fortnight a new
generation appears. I tried the gas two years
ago on a house of Black Hamburgh, on the
bunches of which some bug had effected a lodg-
ment. I was rather dubious as to the effect the
grapes might have when eaten, but after trying
them some days afterwards no bad results fol-
lowed, and so we may consider the treatment
harmless. It would be interesting to know if all
kinds of grapes can be safely vaporised. Muscat
of Alexandria, for instance, resents insecticides
generally. Black Alicante is, of all varieties,
one of the most difficult to clean, owing to the
downiness of all the parts of the current year's
growth. There is a difficulty with the railway
people here, as they object to carry sulphuric
acid unless at a largely enhanced rate. ^Vhere
this is pressed it makes it a rather expensive
method of getting rid of insects, otherwise it is
as cheap as others, and certainl}' the most effec-
tive of all. 7?. /'. Brotlierston.

Nothing can be farther from my desire than to
check in any way the introduction into gardening of
cheap and effective insecticides or fungicides. My
objection to such a fumigant as hydrocyanic gas is
that it is very dangerous to human life. That
may be mere sentiment ; but as legislation has in
so many directions of h.'e tended to the protection
of human life from poisonous compounds, and
very proper legislation too, it does seem as if
there was a tendency to revert to dangerous
practices in commanding the employment as a
fumigant in plant houses of a gas that is
admitted to be of a highly poisonous nature.
However, there are plenty of gardeners, and to
spare, hence presumably the death of a few can
hardly be allowed to stay the progress of fumiga-
tion experiment. If the insect life in a plant house
be destroyed what matter even if a few human
lives be taken also ? A . D.

Willow for Bat-making. — In reply to several
enquiries 1 may say that the best Willow timber
for the manufacture of cricket bats is that of the
white or Huntingdon Willow (Salix alba) and the
Bedford (S. Russelliana) — the former, in my
opinion, is preferable. They are of the readiest
culture, as cuttings inserted in autumn or spring
grow away freely, while a post driven into the
ground emits roots and soon becomes established.
I prefer, however, to grow the cuttings in the
nursery for two years before planting out per-
manently. It is well to bear in mind in the culti-
vation of Willow timber for the making of cricket
bats that unpollarded trees, or such as have not
been beheaded or pruned too severely, are pre-
ferred, and, incidentally, it may be mentioned that
such specimens are less liable to the attacks of
injurious insects. A. D. Webster.

Gros Colmar Grape (see p. 128). — The reply
to Griipc was well worded and to the point, but
there is still more to be added from the market
side of the question. Gros Colmar is a Grape
that, even under the best cultural conditions, re-
quires fully six months to colour, and then another
long month to hang before it is fit for the table.
The question of when to start the Vines is entirely
in the grower's own hand. It is not so much how
soon these can be ripened as when they are wanted
for market purposes. Provided red spider is kept
under, Gros Colmar started in ^larch, and grown
as an exclusive crop, without being subject to the
consideration of other things in the house, will
have the fruit well coloured in the corresponding
period of September, and ht for cutting in Novem-
ber and December. This undoubtedly is the safest
culture of all, and if the Vines are not overcropped
they should prove remunerative. Good Grapes of
Gros Colmar, good in bunch and berry, even in a
bad market realise is. 6d. to 2S. per lb. These
figures represent actual facts. Fire heat is a very
active factor in producing fla\ our. No other late
crop of Gros Colmar will ever equal that resulting
from starting the Vines in March, because they will
not get the two months' interval between the
cutting of the fruits and the restarting of the Vines.
Stephen Castle.

The Royal Horticultural Society's
Exhibition. — The e.\lubilion of table decorations
on June 20 promises to be one of the most in-
teresting meetings in the Vmcent Hall. I cannot
but think adversely of the lack of enterprise on
the part of the Coimcil in offering no other award
in any of the 29 classes beyond the Society's
medals. This policy cannot but limit competition
and therefore interest in the exhibition. The pro-
fessional florist may regard such an exhibit as an
exceedingly good advertisement for the purposes
of trade, but for the amateur — male or female —
the circumstances are entirely different. Amateurs
set little store in obtaining medals as a recompense
for time, expense of journey, and possibly the
purchase of flowers also. If prizes (in kind if
they like) were oflered, the display would, I
xenture to say, be much more worthy of such an
exhibition. No class of exhibitors that 1 am ac-
quainted with think more seriously of the nett
results of their labours than do the amateur lady
decorators. They prefer to see something mucii
more solid than the possibility of obtaining even
a gold medal at the " discretion of the Council."
Decorator .

The Carnation in French Literature (See

p. 97). — In i'rench gardening literature the Carna-
tion has held lor centuries past a very prominent
place, almost equal to that perhaps which it enjoys
m English gardening literature. For if we can find
authors like Parkinson, Gerard, Kea, Gilbert and
others who have deemed it worthy of their notice
we shall probably find that Pierre Morin, Louis
Liger, Fuard du Castel, Xavier Mallet and other
old French horticultural authors (}f the 17th and
iSth centuries have been equally interested in
the Carnation in a general way. One of the most
erudite and interesting authors on florists' flowers
in the i8th century was the Pere d'Ardene. His
works are essentially monographs of the sub-
jects on which he writes, and each runs into two
or three hundred pages. His Traitc dcs CEillcts,
published in i2mo. at Avignon in 1762, is de-
scribed by no less an authority than M. Gibault
as beyond doubt the best old book on the Carna-
tion. This work is probably as rare as the two
by L. B. and L. C. M, B. Another and possibly
equally scarce French book on the Carnation is
Nouvcan Traite dcs CEillcts, by Goube of Valen-
ciennes, published in i2mo. at Cambrai in 17&9.
.V few years later a book was published in Paris

Makch 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

141

entitled Biauti de la Nature ou FUuromaiiie Raisoii-
nci-, which, again on the authority of M. Gib-
ault, was essentially a treatise on the Carnation,
although it contained chapters on Hyacinths,
Tulips, and Auriculas, a kind of French Hogg or
Maddock, we may suppose. This is a book i2mo.
in size, and it appeared in 1775. After this a
great break occurs, and I know of nothing until
another writer on florists' flowers undertook the
subject. This was the Baron de Ponsort, wlio in
1S41 brought out his Tyiulc surla Culture de I'CEillct
Fhinniud. I have only the second edition, which
bears date three years later, and is a very compre-
hensive treatise of nearly 200 pages dealing with
almost every phase of its culture, its diseases,
enemies, and classification. In 1S45 the same
author wrote Appendicc d la Monogiapinc du Genre
CEillet, in which there is a coloured frontispiece of
the variety Laure de St, Vincent and ten coloured
plates showing the markings of the petals of the
various varieties. Ragonot-Godefroy was another
of these French writers on florists' flowers, and
among his works is one entitled Traitc sur la Cul-
ture des CEilUts, published in Paris in 1S42. Of
this I only know the second edition. It is purely
cultural except that he gives a tabular form of
classification at the end and two plates (uncoloured)
of the distinctive difterences of the petals of the
different kinds of Carnations. Of L'CEillct, son
Histoire, et sa Culture, by Dupuis, published in
Paris in 1862, I know nothing except the name,
for although modern, it seems to be almost as
difficult to obtain as some of those published a
century before. Most of the remaining French
books on the Carnation are much more modern,
and little more in many cases than mere pam-
phlets ; but it may be interesting to some of the
readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle to mention them.
There is Culture et Multiplieation de I'CEiltet, par un
Amateur, Paris N.D., published probably thirty
years ago. Then there is Mottet's Lcs (Eillcts,
Historiquc, Description des Principales Espices, liaccs
et Varictcs, (S-c, published at Paris in iSgS, and of
which a second edition has recently been issued.
Cultuie de I'CEillct sous Chassis, by Francis Orengo
Antibes, iSr^S ; and last, but not least, a very ex-
cellent treatise in cloth covers by Jules Rudolph,
entitled L'CEillct a la Grande Flcur. with 22 illus-
trations, published in Paris in 1903, in which the
history oi the flower is given at some length, while
the subject of propagation by seeds, cuttings, and
layers, selection of varieties, culture in pots and in
the open, insects, and diseases, all receive an
adequate portion of the writer's attention. In
addition to the above there is a little Swiss pam-
phlet, printed in French, called Culture Pratujue de
rCEillet Remontant, by Auguste Guillot, published
in lieneva in 1003. c'. Harmau I'avnc.

Broccolis at Wisley. — Lest an impression
should prei-ail amongst those persons wlio send
things to Wisley for trial, that such things meet
with sparse consideration at the hands of tiie Fruit
and Vegetable Committee, I beg lea\eto point out
that the two Broccoli heads, viz.. Snow's Winter
■White and Brydon's Peerless, mentioned in your
report at p. no, were from Wisley, where, in
conjunction with others, they had been grown,
but being presented to the committee at the Vin-
cent Sciuare Hall on the 13th in a hard trimmed
form both closely resembled each other, and
although Mr. S. T. Wright regards Peerless as
dwarfer and the heads have better protection
naturally than Winter White, and two or three
members spoke favourably of it, the Committee
thought, as going to AVisley to see the plants at
this time of the year was out of the question, to
request that at the next meeting plants of each
variety just as pulled from the ground, and in no
way trimmed, should be sent up for examination.
The Committee have the greatest desire to deal
justly with every exhibit, whether from Wisley or
elsewhere. A. D.

Transplanting Early Peas. — I raise my
earliest crop of culinary Peas in boxes of my own
make, provided with a sliding bottom. When the
seedlings are ready for transplanting, a trench is
opened the width of the boxes, which are then
placed in the trench and the sliding bottom re-
moved. The boxes are lifted and the Peas remain
in the trench with their roots practically undis-
turbed.- I withhold water for a day or so previous
to transplanting in order that the soil may leave
the boxes readily ; but after planting, the Peas arc
given a copious supply of water. I find this
system gives excellent results. The plants are
6 inches high when planted out. and sticks are at
once placed in position as much for protection in
their early stages as for support. The trenches

are made sufficiently deep to allow of earthing.
The ground is double dug early the previous
autumn with a heavy dressing of manure in the
bottom of each trench. It is gone over again and
thrown up in ridges to receive the full benefit of
the effects of the weather. Planting is generally
performed about the first week in February,
previous to which the ground is levelled. The
boxes when empty are washed and dried ready
for use again the following season, or they can
be used for other crops such as Celery. S. A'.

Another Ornamental Kochia.— Under the
name of Kochia trichophylla I have before me
in an Erfurt seedsmarTs catalogue an illustra-
tion of a plant labelled JC. trichophylla (Summer
Cj'press). This appears to be an exact counter-
part of the plant that has been grown at Swan-
ley, Hampton Court, Victoria Park, and many
other districts during the past three years under
the name of K. scoparia. My attention was
first directed to the form of Kochia which has
been so attractive in our parks, whether K.
scoparia or K. trichophyiia, by the generosity of
Messrs. Cannell and Sons, of Swanley, who sent
to me a few plants for trial. They pleased me
greatly, and excited the attention of visitors by
their symmetrical form and their delicate tint of
fine green foliage. These plants were sent out
under the name of Kochia scoparia. The fol-
lowing year, wishing to enlarge the stock of
such an elegant reintroduction, I ordered seed
from a firm of repute, and from the seeds which
they supplied as Kochia scoparia developed
plants so inferior to those obtained from
Messrs. Cannell that I threw them away. Think-
ing, perhaps, that my treatment of the seedlings
in question was at fault, the following }ear I
ordered some more seed of Kochia scoparia from
the same source, with the result that I raised a
batch of seedlings which, when planted out,
grew in such an attractive form, and coloured
so beautifully towards the end of the summer,
that I am sure, from the numerous enquiries I
received, there will be a large demand for seed
this spring. Experience has thus taught me
that there are two kinds in commerce under the
name of K. scoparia, and I should like to know
the proper name for the best decorative variety,
such as was shown by Messrs. Cannell at the
Crystal Palace and at the Royal Horticultural
Hall, whether trichophylla or scorpia. Under
whatever name it may be recognised, I am sure
that the finest form already grown and exhibited
in England will not be surpassed by that now
being sent out under the name of K. trichophylla.
Kochia scoparia was known to Miller, for, in
the sixth edition of the abridgement to the Gar-
deners' Dictionary, published in the year 1771,
under the name of Chenopodium scoparia, the
following details, among others, appear: —
" Goose-foot, with narrow spear-shaped leaves,
which are plain and entire, commonlj' called
Belvedere, or Summer Cypress." Then follows
this description: — "It is a beautiful plant,
which is naturally disposed to grow very close
and thick as in as regular a pyramid as if cut bv
art. The leaves are of a pleasant green ; and
were it not for that, it hath so much of the ap-
pearance of a C3'press tree that at some distance
it might be taken for the same by good judges,
etc., etc." Does not this description of that
talented gardener, written more than 135 years
ago, apply equally to the form we are now grow-
ing as Kochia scoparia, and have not the names
of Belvedere and Summer Cypress been handed
down from that time also? I trust to be spared
through the coining summer to test whether there
is any difference between the variety which has
been re-introduced by Messrs. Cannell as K.
scoparia and the variety now being introduced
from Germany under the name of Kochia tricho-
phylla. If no difference is found, which is to
be the correct name, K. scoparia or K. tricho-
phylla? /. W. Moorman, Superintendent, Vic-
toria Park. [The Index Kewensis contains no
such species of Kochia as trichophylla. K.
scoparia is known to be very variable, and even
the same plant varies in appearance according
to season. — Ed.]

Horticultural Examinations. — .\lthough
I agree with Mr. Watso.i in the main point?
of his note regarding examinations in horti-
culture, yet I do not think it would be
wise to disparage horticultural examinations
altogether. " Theory without practice " may be
useless in any profession, yet "theory" com-
bined with " practice," in gard'Puing, as in other
professions, no doubt, is as great a boon as any

man can possibly have. I am a " third-class "
rnan myself, and have been a gardener all my
life, but the study necessary to gain the third-
class certificate more than compensated me for
my trouble, by helping me to understand things
more clearly, and making me think more about
my work than I otherwise should have done.
The R.H.S. examinations are too severe for an
ordinary young gardener, who starts his career in
the bothy, and who has only had a day-school
education. Botany may not be absolutely neces-
sary for a gardener, but a knowledge of elemen-
tary botany helps him to understand the particu-
lar needs of a plant, and makes plain the reason
why they require particular treatment. I would
like to suggest that the British Gardeners' Asso-
ciation should institute examinations in horti-
culture, and only allow young gardeners to enter.
There should not be one severe examination
only, but two or three extending over several
years. As a boy enters a garden as a garden
boy, let him prepare himself for the first exami-
nation to take place when he is about 17 years
old, the second examination when he is 20, and
the last when he is about 23 years old. At that
age he ought to be able to take his first fore-
man's place, and have three or more years as
foreman before becoming "head." The first
examination need not be severe, but one that
should encourage study in elementary botany
and the first principles of horticulture, and the
others should be gradually more severe. I think by
this means the standard of the British gardener
might be raised considerably above the present
Vevel, and in years to come the gardener would
be in a position to hold his own. All successful
candidates should be entered on a special
register of the British Gardeners' Association,
or the B.G.A, might work in conjunction with
the R.H.S. in such a matter. A. E. T. Rogers,
Siideley Castle, Glos.

I do not imagine the promoters of the exami-
nation system ever thought examinations
would afford a perfect test of capacity, but
I am sure the institution of these examina-
tions is a step in the right dii-ection, and
I am pleased to hear that the London County
Council think so also, and I should like
to hear of other public institutions taking the
same view. If so, we might then have a better
system of examinations for gardeners adopted
by the Royal Horticultural Society, and then
our profession would be raised to the level it
ought to hold. In my opinion, if such were
done it would rid gardening of a lot of super-
fluous hangers on, and would also afford a
guarantee to employers that they were getting
gardeners who knew their work from the most
elementary portions upwards. 1 am also sure
that a perfect system of examinations would do
more to raise the wages of real gardeners than
any British Gardeners' Association is likely to
do. W. G.

Mr. Watson states in a recent issue that young
men of proved ability rarely get into the first
class. The reason of this is that the majority
of gardeners ha^te not acquired the power of
close study. In many cases they find this more
arduous than their daily work. Many practical
gardeners have the idea that the R.H.S. certifi-
cate can be obtained without a knowledge of
the scientific principles on which his work is
founded, but without them how is he to obtain
the knowledge of his art? It is true that in
horticulture we want men who are able to do
things — practical men who understand the prin-
ciples on which their w-ork is based. No
practical gardener who has made a careful study
of the R.H.S. syllabus, apart from any examina-
tion w^hatever, will den}' that he has received
'oenefit from its perusal. In conclusion, it would
be interesting to know how far the Kewites, apart
from their practical work, are trained in this
" class-room " gardening, and whether or not
Mr. Watson owes his position he now holds to
practice alone. G. JI. H. W.

With the general trend of Mr. W"atson"s
remarks upon this subject (page 106) the
majorit}' of experienced men will readily agree.
.Such examinations cannot serve as an adequate
test of a candidate's special aptitude as a
cultivator, but has such a result ever been
claimed for them? I am not aware that any
council or any examiners have asserted or
implied that those who pass the Royal
Horticultural Society's examinations are neces-
sarily fully qualified gardeners. Emploj'ers
do not engage their men on the strength
of such certificates alone, nor do the holders

142

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3, 1906.

expect it, so no one suffers in the matter,
because no one is deceived unless they mis-
lead themselves. But your correspondent goes
:arthet than this, for he implies that such
examinations are almost useless. Against such a
notion a protest must be entered. The studying,
thinking, and preparing for such ordeals have
broadened the minds of many, and have given
them a pleasure and intelligent interest in
their work which they never before possessed.
The disinclination for the labour of gaining a
higher education in their business has been
one of the chief causes that has retarded the
advance of gardeners, especially in the south ;
in the north the eagerness for knowledge has
during a long period been more evident, with
substantial results. Examinations offer an in-
ducement to self-improvement, and that leads
to progress in the right direction. Personally I
would sooner have a man who had tried and
failed in any competition than one who had
never tried, provided they were equally experi-
enced in their work. One of the great authori-
ties has said : " The rule-of-thumb method of
doing anything is pure mimicry . . . v^ith-
out knowing or caring for the reason why."
Again he adds : " The man who possesses the
greatest range* of knowledge relating to his
special subject is the one most likely to suc-
ceed.' Success is a relative term, as fortune
dees not favour all alike, but even in failure
a man who has made the acquirement of
knowledge his constant object has a service
of pleasure of which even his enemies cannot
deprive him. Beyond this a gardener has con-
stantly to deal with well-educated people, who
nowadays often include a study of plant-life in
.their curriculum, and certainly it does not
lessen an employer's estimation of his gardener
when he finds the latter is duly informed upon
the scientific side of his art. In fact, such a
knowledge is expected of any man in a good
position at the present time. It has always been
a difficult matter to induce the young to take
a right view of the advantage of study, and if
examinations aid in doing this they have their
use and justification. In a recent visit to a leading
establishment, a hybrid plant was noted which
had been raised in that establishment, but not
one of the rren in the house could tell its history
or what its parents were, though to any plant
lover it possessed considerable interest. These
men may be first-class cultivators — certainly the
plants were in admirable condition — but would
they have been any less skilful if they had shown
an intelligent interest in the plants under their
charge? Your correspondent refers to the action
taken by the London County Council in desiring
their employees in the Parks Department to
submit themselves for examination. That is a
step in the direction of raising the status of the
men, which experience has proved to be not
only desirable but absolutely necessary. There
are serious defects in the County Council's
system, but if they pay wages equal to those
given to hundreds of head gardeners they should
at least require the men to possess the rudi-
ments of common knowledge. The concluding
remarks in Mr. Watson's letter convey a wider
meaning than I am willing to believe he
intended, but in himself he has a reply to his
stricture. As a speaker and a writer, as well
as a skilful cultivator, his ability is admitted,
and each characteristic has contributed to his
success, though it may be difficult to determine
their proportionate share in the result. L.
Castle.

Examinations in Horticulture (see p
124, last issue). — On line ten the printer has put
Examiners' for Examinee's ! G. Hcnsloiv.

d^bttuaii).

George Norman. V.M.H.— .\s these pages are
passing through the press we receive the sad
intelligence of the death from heart failure, on
Wednesday last, of Mr. George Norman,
■V.M.H., head gardener to the Marquis of Salis-
bury, at Hatfield. '.The funeral will take place
at Hatfield Cemetery, on Monday next, at 3
p.m. Mr. Norman was a native of Bedford-
shire. He has filled the position at Hatfield
House, Hertfordshire, for 30 years, having been
appointed there in 1876. Previous to that date
he had acted as foreman for several years in
Linton Park Gardens, Maidstone.

SOCIETIES.

SEVENOAKS GARDENERS.

■■ APORISING WITH HYDROCYANIC AciD GaS.

/ f a recent meeting of the above society, Mr.
/. H. Westcott, Woodleigh Gardens, Sevenoaks,
lead a paper on " Cyaniding under Glass." The
materials required for this method of fumigating
plant houses are cyanide of potassium, sulphuric
acid, two pans and a punkah, or fan, for diffusing
the gas through the house. One of the pans is
fixed to a block of wood, which is hinged, the
other pan being placed below, and in such a
position that when the top one is tilted by means
of pulling a cord, the bottom one receives the con-
tents of the upper. Place the two pans in the
middle of the house with the attached string lead-
ing to the keyhole of the door through which it is
drawn. Place the fan immediately over the pans.
The best time for generating the gas is at night,
when no person other than the operator is present.
When ready for fumigating place the cyanide ot
potassium in the top pan, and in the lower one put
a quantity of water, and mix with this sulphuric
acid, stirring them together with a stick. The
liquid becomes extremely hot, and this is an
advantage, for when the potassium cyanide is put
in the heat facilitates the evolution of the gases.
[Do not fill the pan with the potassium cyanide
until the last possible moment, and when the string
is ready to be pulled from the outside. — Ed.]

THE LATE GEORGE NORMAN.

Care should be taken not to walk on or entangle
the cord when passing out of the house. The ends
of the cord being outside, and the doors securely
locked, the operation may be put into execution.
First work the fan to set the air in motion, and
then by means of the string release the cyanide
salt into the sulphuric acid, taking care to observe
the time.

The punkah should now be well worked, and
especially at first, whilst the gas is being rapidly
generated. Probably ten minutes will be found
quite sufficient to diffuse the gas through the
house. Keep the structure closed for 40 or 50
minutes, after which some of the ventilators may
be opened from the outside and a little later the
doors, the operator using great caution and
holding his breath. With moderate venti'ation
the house should be clear of the gas in about 20
minutes, but operators should keep on the safe
side. The odour of bitter almonds is an indication
that traces of the gas are still in the house, but a
slight smell is not injurious.

Although potassium cyanide has been univer-
sally used for the purpose, and may still be used
in some cases, sodium cyanide is, in my opinion,
preferable. It is smaller in bulk and gives a more
convenient effervescence. The amount of cyanide
used must be regulated by the heat of the houses
and by the tenderness of the plants. For cold
houses I have found a remarkably small dose
sufficient — namely, 2 oz. sodium cyanide to every
1,000 cubic feet of space. This is a less quantity
than has sometimes been used, but it is sufficient
to kill mealy bug and all other living pests with-
out causing the slightest injury to any plant.

The following plants stood the above quantity
without injury: — Tomatos (covering the roof),
Fuchsias in flower, Cannas, Chrysanthemums,
Heliotrope, Lobelia; Pelargoniums, Asparagus,
Azaleas, Adiantum, Primulas, Cyclamens, Palms,
Codiaeums (Crotons), &c.
DOSES FOR EACH 1,000 CUBIC FEET ENCLOSED
SPACE.

Sodium cyanide,
full strength.

Sulphuric acid,
strength l.S.

Water.

1* ozs.
l| ..
2 „
2* ,,
3" „

3 fluid ozs.

3*

I „

s

6

9 fluid ozs.
104 ,
12

15 ,,
18

Two ounces of cyanide is sufficient for a cool
greenhouse. The sulphuric acid need not be pure,
but should be strong and of a specific gravity not
less than i-8. Commercial oil of vitriol is about
this strength, and it requires to be diluted with
water in the proportion of one part of sulphuric
acid to three parts of water by measure. The
plan to follow is to first put the necessary water
into the acid dish, next the proper proportion of
acid into the water, and stir with a stick, and lastly
the cyanide into its metal dish. Sodium cyanide
is given at 130 per cent, strength in comparison
with potassium cyanide of 98 per cent., and there-
fore only three fourths of the weight of sodium
cyanide is required.

Fumigating Odt-of-Doors.

The standard for trees out of doors is one ounce
cyanide for every 200 feet of space. In introduc-
ing this operation to cultivators I am fully aware
that in careless hands it is a most dangerous pro-
cess, but in careful hands the danger is practically
nil. I think the lines I have laid down are per-
fectly safe, and I know they are perfectly eft'ectual.
No. I house, containing a space of 792 cubic feet,
required ij ozs. of sodium cyanide, 2^ ozs. sul-
phuric acid, and yi ozs. water. The plants in the
house were Azaleas, Cyclamen, Primulas, Begonias
&c., and these were not injured in the least, but
on the staging and the floors were dead wood-lice,
which had even come out of cracks in the walls.
Worms were also expelled from the soil in pots
and were shrivelled. No. 2 house, containing 1,471
cubic feet, required 2j ozs. of cyanide salt, 5J ozs.
sulphuric acid, and 15 ozs. water. The plants
vaporised were Codiaeum (Crotons), Streptocar-
pus, Asparagus, Maidenhair Fern, Pelargoniums,
and Palms, &c. The insects affected by the gas
were mealy bug, thrip, scale, and green fly ;
everything living was effectually destroyed.

It should be remembered that the above is the
smallest amount of cyanide which has ever been
used for the purpose, whilst great damage has
been done from overdosing the houses. It now
remains to determine what effect temperatures,
atmospheric moisture. Sic, have upon the action
of plant life in the presence of the gas. Cyaniding
should not be performed on plants in full sun-
shine. In winter, however, it may be done at
any time, either day or night. The evening is
the more suitable time, for several reasons, and
fewer workmen will then be found about the place.
In the daytime instruct one, or perhaps two, trust-
worthy men to prepare everything in readiness so
that operations can be started directly the staff has
finished for the day. The charges of cyanide can
be weighed out and put into tins and be locked up
until the last moment. The generators should be
put into the house and the punkahs hung in posi-
tion with cords attached leading through a .J-inch
hole made in the door. Immediately the workmen
have left, the water and acid can be put into the
bottom pans, then the cyanide in the top ones, but
never allow any cyanide to be between the operator
and the outer door. The door should then be
closed, the time carefully noted, and the cord pulled.
The punkahs should now be kept moving for ten
minutes to thoroughly incorporate the gas with
the atmosphere. A neat cyaniding battery with
interchangeable parts is of great service. The
punkahs should be large enough and heavy enough
to balance properly. For filling the acid pans a
glass measure, which can be obtained at any
chemist's or stores, should be used, also a small
pair of scales for weighing the quantities of cyanide
salt.

Vines which have all the fruit removed and
which are infested with various pests should be
treated as follows : — All tender plants must be
removed and the cubic space of the structure
calculated. The pans and the cyanide dishes
should be placed in position and the house kej't

March 3, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

143

as dry as convenient. Arrangements must be made
for opening the top ventilators from the outside.
All means of access to the vineries must be locked,
so that there may not be the remotest chance
of any person going into the house while the gas
is being evolved. For a vinery at this season of
the year use 2 ozs. sodium cyanide to every i,ooo
cubic feet of air space. The vinery must be kept
closed alter vaporising for about one hour, when
the ventilators and doors must be thrown wide
open and allowed to remain so for an hour or
two, or until the morning in the case of empty
\ineries. Ne.xt wash the vines with water under
high pressure. The cyaniding should be repeated
in the spring, but not m such strong doses.

Caution.
Death by prussic acid poisoning would be the
doom of any individual carrying out these direc-
tions without due care, but, if the necessary
precautions be taken, there is no danger of fatal
consequences.

MANCHESTER & NORTH OF ENGLAND
ORCHID.

February 8. — The following Awards were made
at the meeting held on this date : —

First-Class Certificates.
Cypripedium x Mrs. Mostyn Chardwar var.
(G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., and S. Gratrix,
Esq.) ; C. x chrysoto.\um var. Victor (S. Gratrix,
Esq., and H. Low & Co.); Cattleya Trians var.
Lady Brunner (J. H. Craven, Esq.).

Awards of Merit.

Cypripedium X Charles Turner (G. \V. Law-
Schofield, Esq.) ; C. Adrastus superbum, Vine
House var. (A. Warburton, Esq.) ; C. X The
Duchess (S. Gratrix, Esq.) ; C. x insigne Chan-
tini X C. Godefroyae leucochilum (J. Cvi'iier &
Sons) ; C. X aureuin var. Mrs. E. Rogerson (E.
RoGERSON, Esq.) ; C. x liogersonianum (E.
Rogerson, Esq.).

Messrs. J. Cypher & Sons were awarded a
Silver Medal for a good group of plants.

Votes of thanks were given to Messrs. Heath &
Sons, S. Briggs-Bury, Esq., E. Rogerson, Esq.,
and J. Cowan & Co., Ltd., for various groups.

February 22. — There was a good display of
plants at this meeting. A group was exhibited by
R. Le Doux, Esq., West Derby, which contained
some well-grown Lycastes (Silver Medal). Messrs.
J. Cypher &. Sons, Cheltenham, also had a good
display of plants (Silver Medal). Messrs. J.
CowAN & Co. received a Silver Medal for a good
group. W. Thompson, Esq., Stone, received a
Bronze Medal for a small, choice collection, and a
similar award was made to I^hilip Smith, Esq., of
Ashton-on-Mersej'. Votes of thanks were passed
to Mr. S. .\llen and Mr. D. McLeod.

First-Class Certificates.
Cypripedium x Euryades var. magnitica (G.
W. Law-Schofield. Esq.) ; C. x Amy Leemann
(J. Leemann, Esq.).

Awards of Merit.
Cypripedium villosum x C. insigne Sanderas
(G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq.) ; C. x Beatrice
Leake (G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq.). P. W.

ABERDEEN CHRYSANTHEMUM.

February 17. — The annual business meeting of
the members of this society was held on the above
date in the Young Men's Christian Association
Buildings, Aberdeen, Mr. James Esslemont, Lang-
ley, chairman of the society, presiding. The
financial report for the past year, submitted by
Mr. Magnus H. Sinclair, secretary and treasurer
of the society, showed a credit balance of ;f 166 los.
The report, which was considered very satisfac-
tory, was unanimously approved. Thereafter the
office-bearers for the ensuing year were elected
as follows : — Hon. president. Lord Provost Lvon ;
chairman, Mr. James Esslemont; vice-president,
Mr. A. Kynoch, Clifton Road, Aberdeen; secre-
tary and treasurer, Mr. M. H. Sinclair, 156A,
Union Street, Aberdeen ; auditors, Mr. William
McHattie, solicitor, and Mr. James Terras; and a
working committee of 20. It was arranged that
the next exhibition be held in the Music Hall
Buildings, .Vberdeen, on Friday and Saturday,
November 23 and 24.

SHEFFIELD CHRYSANTHEMUM.

The address of the new secretary of this society
is \V. Lewendon, 93, Neill Road, Sheffield. Mr.
Lewendon is already known to many of our
readers as the secretary of the Sheffield Floral
and Horticultural Society.

ROYAL METEOROLOaiCAL.

The usual montiily meeting was held on Feb-
ruary 21 at the Society's rooms, 70, Victoria
Street, Westminster, Mr. Richard Bentley, presi-
dent, in the chair.

Mr. E. Mawley read his "Report on the
Phenological Observations for 1905." He said
that, as affecting vegetation, the weather of the
phenological year ending November, 1905, was
chiefly remarkable for the dryness and mildness
of the winter months, the drought and frosts in
May, the long spell of hot and dry weather in
July, and an exceptionally cold period in October.
Wild plants came into flower a few days earlier
than usual until about the beginning of May,
after which time they were as a rule to about the
same extent late. Most of the early spring
migrants, such as the swallow, nightingale, &c. .
reached these shores in advance of their average
dates. The best farm crops of the year were
those of Wheat, Beans, and Hops, while Barley,
Potatos, Turnips, and Mangolds were all more or
less over average. But the yield of Oats, Peas,
and Hay was almost everywhere deficient, the
latter being the worst crop of the year. Apples,
Pears, and Plums were in all parts of the British
Isles below average, whereas the small fruits as a
rule yielded well. Takmg the farm crops alone,
the past year must be regarded as having been, on
the whole, a fairly bountiful one.

THE NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

February 26. — The second annual dinner in
connection with the above show was held at
Hummum's Hotel, Co^-ent Garden, on the above
date. The chair was occupied by Mr. R. Ballan-
tine (who with Mr. Prickett, the oldest member of
the N.C.S., was the prime mover in starting the
"market show"). Copies of the schedule for
1906 and the balance-sheet were distributed to
those present. The show will be held in the
Foreign Flower Market on December 12. The
statement of accounts showed a balance in
hand of /ii os. iid. The chairman in pro-
posing "The Market Show" expressed satis-
faction for the support given, and referred to
the great advance the last show was on the
first venture, but he (Mr. Ballantine) was still
of opinion that the show might be held in
January ; this, howeier, was not the opinion of
Mr. W. Cull who responded to the toast. Other
members also expressed their opinions thatitcould
not be held so late, as it would be unprofitable for
growers to keep the flowers over the .Christmas
season. Mr. Moorman (of Victoria Park) referred
to the last show as one of the most instructive and
interesting exhibitions he had visited. Mr. Prickett
referred to the limited number of e.xhibitors, and
expressed a hope that more growers would be
willing to enter into friendly competition.

Mr. T. Bevan in proposing ' ' The Donors of
Prizes " referred to the liberality of the chairman
and other friends.

Several letters were read from those unable to
attend. Messrs. Clay & Son sent 5 guineas to-
wards this year's Prize Fund, Mr. J. Webb
manager of Hummum's Hotel) promised a gold
medal, Mr. M. Larsen a silver gilt medal, Mr. P.
Bunyard (of G. H. Richards) a silver gilt medal,
Mr. J. Kinnell (of Kinnell & Co.) a large silver
medal. Mr. E. F. Hawes (Royal Botanic Gardens)
a silver medal, and Mr. R. F. Felton, of Hanover
Square, W., a silver bowl value 3 guineas, for the
best collection of single varieties. It is confi-
dently hoped that many more special prizes may
be offered.

A pleasant musical programme was carried out
under the direction of Mr. D. Ingamells and Mr.
Godfrey Woodstock. Mr. D. Ingamells. who has
done much towards popularising the market
shows, was responsible for the dinner arrange-
ments, which were well carried out in all details.

Schedules and other information may be had
from the society's secretary, Mr. G. R. Dean,
8, Avonwick Road, Heston, Hounslow.

GARDENERS* DEBATING SOCIETIES.

CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS*.

—At the meeting of the above association held on Friday,
i-ebruary g, Mr. Simmonds, of the Elms, Chelmsford, de-
livered a paper on "Vegetables." A selection of popular
kinds was given, and the principal points to observe in their
culture were indicated. A discussion on the various methods
of forcing beakale followed the lecturer's remarks.

At the meeting of the above society held on the iGth ult.
Mr. W. C. Sprunt, of the Nurseries, Moulsham, read a short
paper on Palms, including the raising of these plants from
seed and their sub-squent culture. Several members gave

valuable information on various details of culture. In-
stances were given of successfully reducing the roots of
plants which had overgrown their pots, and repotting them
jnto pots of the same size as before. H'. C. S.

At the meeting held on Friday, February 23, before a good
attendance of the members, Mr. F. J. Chittenden read a
paper on "The Making of New Plants." The essayist gave
a number of valuable hints on hybridising^ and mentioned
^ome of the points to be aimed at when raismg new plants.

BATH AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.~The
annual dmner of the above Association was held at the Full
Moon Hotel, Southgate Street, Bath, on Wednesday, Febru-
ary 14, Mr. R. Ji. Cater (President) occupying the chair.
Ibe company included the Mayor, Mr. Councillor Isaacs.
Ihe Mayor submitted "Success to the Bath and District
Gardeners' Mutual Improvement Association." He sai<l
gardeners stood in a very difterent pos'tion from artizan-^
and mechanics, who had their set hours of work, and wliu
were told they must do so much work and no more. Thtr
gardener worked from early morning to late at night, and his
ambition was to produce something far better than his neigh-
bour, thereby beneliting the community at large. Gardeners
had no trades union, but he hoped they would be able to-
form an association by which, with a jomt etiort, they might
raise their status, for the wages paid to the gardener were
small compared with other trades; indeed, he was a veryill-
paid man,

CRAWLEY AND DISTRICT GARDENERS*.—

A paper on " Phenomena in the Life of Plants " was given
before the members of this association on Tuesday, Feb-
ruary 13, by Mr. Wm. Shepherd. The speaker explained the
various functions of the leaves, stems, and branches, etc.,
and showed how the plants assimilate carbon from the car-
bonic acid gas contained in the atmosphere, absorbing the
carbon and returning the oxygen to the air. Many questions
were forthcoming at the close of the address, and some
valuable information was gleaned from the discussion.

CHESTER PAXTON.— At the fortnightly meeting oi
this society, held at the Grosvenor Museum on Saturday, he
17th ult., Mr. N. F. Barnes presiding, Mr. E. F. Hazelton,
head gardener to Lord Derby, Knowsley Park, Lancashire^
read a paper on " Ornamental Flowering Trees and Shrubs."
The subject was dealt with by the essayist in a very able
maimer, and he pleaded for a more extensive use of hardy
flowering trees and shrubs for situations adapted to their
culture. Mr. Hazelton submitted lists of the best and most
suitable varieties, together with cultural methods.

REDHILL, REIGATE, AND DISTRICT CAR-
DENtRS'.— -^ meeting of this society was held on Tues-
day, the 13th ult., Mr. W. Seaman in the chair. Mr. H.
Hemsley, of Crawley, read a paper on " Herbaceous Plants
for Exhibition and Decoration." The paper dealt fully
with the formation of herbaceous borders and the planting
of the same. Mr. Hemsley also gave a list of plants suitable
for furnishing the border. By means of a blackboard,
diagrams were shown illustrating the paper. The introduc-
tion of a few trees such as Prunus Pissardi and Acers in
variety was advocated by the lecturer. Frederick C. Lcggc.
LOUGHBOROUGH GARDENERS'.— The usual
fortnightly meeting of the above association was held in the
Town Hall. Lou^hborough, on Tuesday, February 13, Mr.
Lane presiding over a good attendance. Mr. Titterton read
a prize essay on the Potato, in which he dealt with this use-
ful vegetable from its earliest introduction to the present
day. A discussion followed. Mr. Cooke introduced a dis-
cussion on the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund, and an
appeal was made to the members on its behalf, with the re
suit that a goodly sum was raised in the room. It was
decided to have an annual collection for the same object,,
and a committee was formed to carry out the object.

EGHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENERS*. -At a
recent meeting of this society, Mr. W. Swan in the chair,
Mr. Townsend, of Sandhurst Lodge, Wokingham, gave a
lecture entitled " A Ramble Round a Berkshire Garden in
Summer." The retnarks were illustrated by a series of
lantern views. A short description of the views and cul-
tural details of the plants depicted were given. Especially
interesting were the Lily ponds and climbing Roses, which
are allowed to grow as naturally as possible. The exhibits at
the meeting included a well-grown group of Cyclamen and a
specimen of Ccelogyne cristata with s+tiower spikes averag-
ing hve flowers to a spike. The latter was exhitned bv
W. A. Stearns, Esq. T.J.W.

GUILDPORD AND DISTRICT GARDENElf S'.—
The members of the above association held their usual fort-
nightly meeting on February 20, Mr. H. Cook, the chairman^
presiding over a good attendance. Mr. Horace J. Wright,,
the hon. secretary of the National Sweet Pea Society,,
delivered a lecture on " Sweet Peas." G, E. B.

CARDIFF GARDENERS'.— The usual fortnightly
meeting of this association was held at the Sandringham.
Hotel, Cardiff, on Tuesday, February 20, when F. G.
Treseder, Esq., presided over a large attendance of mem-
bers. A lecture upon " Our Resident Birds as Friends and
Foes" was delivered by Mr. J. Mountney, taxidermist,.
Cardiff. The lecture was of considerable interest to the
gardener, for it pointed out that though many of the 40.
species mentioned in the paper were, to a certain extent,,
looked upon as foes to both gardeners and farmers, many
were desirable friends and destroyed numbers of insect and
other garden pests. Mr. Graham opened a discussion in
which many took part. Mr. T. Williams won the prize of
5s. offered by Mr. Gillett for the best pot of Cyclamen, his-
speciinen having over 30 expanded flowers. J .Julian.

BRISTOL AND DISTRICT GARDENERS*.—
The meeting of this association, held at St. John's
Rooms, Redland, recently, Mr. Jas. Lee presiding, was
set apart for the official visit of the Bristol Amateur
Horticultural Association. The good feeling which exists
between these two societies speaks well for the interests of
Horticulture in Bristol and the district. Owing to the
inclement weather the attendance was not as large as it
would otherwise have been, but those who did attend were
amply repaid in the lecture, illustrated by lantern slides,
given by the visitors' president, Dr. Colston Wintle, on
"Insects." Dr. Colston Wintle gave many useful hints
concerning the pests of our gardens, and at the close of his
lecture received the cordial thanks of the Bristol Gardeners.
H. K.

CROYDON & DISTRICT HORTICULTURAL.—
The members of this society assembled on Tuesday, the
2oth ult., at the Sunflower Temperance Hotel, to hear a
lecture delivered by Mr. T. Crosswell, Eden Park, on "The
Culture of Herbaceous Calceolarias." Seeds should be sown
between May and August, according to the size of plant_

144

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 3, 19UG.

required. It usually takes about eight or ten days for the
seeds to germinate, and if the soil appears dry immerse the
pots in water till it shows through the surface ; on no
account water overhead. A little ventilation may be given
■in about a week, and gradually increased day and night.
When large enough pot the plants singly in a compost
of equal parts loam, leaf-soil and fine sand. The
last potting may take place in February. A little soot-water
or weak solution of manure will benefit the plants when they
are well rooted. If large specimens are required the central
spike should be pinched out. Do not select all the larger
seedlings, for the more uncommon colours will often be
found in the lesser seedlings. A discussion by the members
followed.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Abies nobilis : R. H. S. Your tree is affected
with gouty disease caused by an insect allied to
'Chermes, which causes American blight in
Apples, and which also (or a near ally) occurs

Ml^^

Fig. 54. — GOUTY disease of the silver firs.

on the spruce and on the larch (see fig. 54).
Petroleum emulsion vigorously applied might
do good. Cut out and burn the affectec"
branches so far as you can.

Arrangement of Cauliflowers for Exhibition :
F. L. S., Hants The usual method is to make
a little platform about g inches in height, using
a board 8 inches wide and as long as is
necessary. To this board is fixed a solid piece of
boarding, shaped like a triangle, as high as may
be necessary for the exhibit of the Cauliflowers.
Incline this triangular piece a little backwards
and there will then be something to build against.
Place on the platform a thick coating of green
moss, and on this lay three Cauliflowers, leaving
I inch between each " head " for Parsley. Make
the spaces solid between the Cauliflowers by pack-
ing in some moss of any kind to the le\'el of the
" flower," then place two more " heads " on the
top and repeat the packing, cSrc, until the whole
is finished. After this has been done place some
finely selected Parsley between the Cauliflowers
and over the whole surface of the moss. Wood-
wool is sometimes used instead of the moss, but
dt is not to be preferred. Be careful to put a

■ wedge or block under each of the outer Cauli-
Jlowers in the bottom row to prevent them from
spreading, otherwise there is always difficulty in
placing them well.

Camellias from the Open : F. G. B. We do
occasionally meet with gardeners who are not
aware that the Camellia will flower in the open
air in this country. Those who knew the Royal
Horticultural Society's Chiswick gardens,
-will remember the border near the old
Paxton House that contained many good speci-
mens of this plant, which flowered freely
•annually. From the flowers you send it is evi-
dent your plant is in a favourable position.

Dlppe, F. : B. This botanist visited Mexico in
182S, accompanied, by C. J. W. Schiede.

Ficus elastica : /. S. F. Ficus elastica in fruit
was fig. red in Gardeners' Chronicle, Septem-
ber 19, 1874, p. 359. Eucalyptus Globulus, in
common with many other plants, possesses a
primordial or youth-form of leaf which is quite
different to that of the adult stage. The well-
known Retinosporas of gardens are but the
youth-forms of species of Conifers, principally
of Cupressus or Juniperus.

Hyacinths, etc. : Enquirer. There is nothing in
the specimens themselves to explain why the
bulbs have not produced roots. Provided the
rooting medium afforded the plants was a suit-
able one the cause of failure must be in the
bulbs, which may have been insufficiently
matured last season.

Market Gardening in Guernsey, or in Eng-
land: C. B. We are not surprised to know
that, having asked various growers in Guernsey
and England which is the better place to estab-
lish a nursery, you have elicited contradictory
opinions. It is a case in which you will have to
decide for yourself, simply because no final and
satisfactory answer could be given to the ques-
tion. Market gardening exists, and has been
found to yield a remunerative return in Guern-
sey and in England. Therefore, make up your
m.iud in which place you would prefer to reside,
and having done that go to business with a will
and you will deserve to succeed. But having
determined the locality in which you will make
the start, be very careful in the matter of choos-
ing premises. Carefully examine them from
every point of view to see how suitable or other-
wise they may be for your purpose. If a lease
is to be taken up, let every condition be
scrutinised beforehand.

Names of Fruits : F. T. B. ClaygatePearmain.

Names ok Plants : M. H. Dendrobium parcum. ■
a very interesting species, owing to the movable,
spring-like labellum. See the illustration and
description published in these pages on May, 20,
1905. — f. J. F. Osmanthus ilicifolius, but there
are no flowers. — H. S. i, Phillyrea angusti-
folia ; 2, Tamarix species, probably T. gallica.
— J. C. I, Rhododendron Countess of Had-
dington ; 2, R. Veitchianum ; 3, R. formosum :
4, Acacia armata. — H. \V., Trcviiiee. Photinia
serrulata syn. Cratjegus glabra. — ] . W . Staun-
tonia he.xaphylla. — A. C. Both species of
Euonymus ; we cannot tell which without the
leaves. — C, Bridgivater. Lissochilus strepto-
petalus. — W.C.M. Odontoglossum pulchellum.
— R. C. Hippeastrum, near to H. equestre.
Not indigenous in Burmah, and probably a
garden hybrid of H. equestre crossed with H.
vittatum. — A. Y. L. i, Scaphosepalum och-
thodes, often called Masdevallia ; 2, Ornithi-
dium confertum, a native of the West Indies. —
W. W. Anemone coronaria, double flowered
variety. — F. T., Bourton. i, Pinus (next week) ;
2, 3, 4 and 5, all forms of the common Spruce,
Picea excelsa.

Narcissus: A. K. The plants that were first
placed indoors failed because heat was applied
too early. N. poeticus will not respond to hard
forcing, though some of the varieties may easily
be got into bloom in February. The bad results
of applying heat to these plants in November
was explained by our correspondent Mr. E. H.
Jenkins, in an article published in these pages
on October 22, 1904, p. 2S6.

Notice to Leave: T. R. A head gardener is
generally considered to be entitled to a month's
notice. Consult a solicitor, who will see if
there are any special circumstances in your case.
Why do not gardeners come to an agreement
with their employers at the time an engagement
is made ?

Peas and Beans during August and Septem-
ber : T. H. G. Ireland. To ensure a supply of
culinary Peas thus late in the season you will
need to sow as for a late crop. Sow a portion
of the seeds in May and make other sowings in
the third week of the month and at the begin-
ning of June. Of the varieties you mention use
Aldennan and The Pilot for the earliest sowing,
and follow with Gladstone and The Duchess,
the final sowing being made with Gradus and
Early Bountiful. These should provide a suc-
cession through the months you mention, and
as the climate of Ireland is more humid than
that of this country, the plants will not be so
likely to suffer from drought as late crops do
here. Late crops of Peas require much atten-
tion in the matters of watering and mulching.

If these details are neglected the crop will be
small and will scarcely pay for the trouble of
growing. Sow the Kidney Beans at the begin-
ning of June. For the bog garden it is not ad-
visable to use artificial manures, but such sub-
stances as peat, peat manure, decayed leaves, or
any substance that will furnish humus to the
soil.
Parsnips eaten: G. B. Marple. The roots have
probably been eaten by voles, which will remove

Fig. 55, — PARSNIPS eaten hollow by voles.

the entire centre portion and leave the skin in
the form of a shell. Fig. 55 shows a root that
has been thus hollowed by these depredators.

Soot: R. M. C. L., Nice. See the remarks on
p. 128 of our last issue in the reply to Enquirer.
You may make the soot water from freshly
obtained soot, and if used only in a clear condi-
tion, the liquid can be applied to the roots of
most pot plants with satisfactory results. If,
however, the liquid is not applied in a clear
state, it will leave a sticky deposit on the sur-
face of the soil, which will to some extent pre-
vent aeration, which is necessary to the well-
being of the roots.

Tuition : /. R. G. G. We do not know any
particular firm that would take your son for the
purpose of teachin,g liim the business, but as
you are prepared to pay a premium there should
be little difficulty in obtaining the information
by inserting an advertisement.

Tulips: /. IK. P. Theshrivellingoftheflowerbuds
is doubtless due to the forcing of the plants into
flower before their natural season. Some have
withstood the strain and succeeded well, but
others, being less well fitted, could not adapt
themselves so perfectly to the unnatural condi-
tions. In the forcing of bulbs, and indeed
of most plants, the gardener must always
bear in mind that he is taking liberties
with nature, and therefore, in order to avoid
causing the plants a check, or hurrying them
beyond what they will bear, the forcing must
be done very gently, allowing the plants as
long a time as possible in which to develop
their growth. You may have noticed that
varieties of Narcissus poeticus if planted very
late in the season often fail, just as the Tulips
have done, and this may be due to the plants be-
ing unduly forced, owing to the season having
further advanced ; the sun's rays are much
hotter than they were when growth would
naturally have been made. In this case, how-
ever, it has to be remembere.d that the bulbs
having been kept out of the ground for so long
a time have suffered in consequence, and were
weaker than otherwise they would have been.
We believe that the variety Yellow Prince is
often flushed with orange colour, and occasion-
ally even with red as are yours.

Communications RKCF.ivF.n.— W. VV. Clarke (your letter
has been forwarded!— G. W. S.— D. Hutchings, Cape
Town— E. Webb & Sons— R. L. H., with thanks--J. H. V.
— Pulham & Son— E. J. A.-W. H. D.-S. K.— W. W.—
G. W.— C. E.— J. S. & Sons-C. N. M.— K. A.— Sutton &
Sons— W. W.— Lord A.— The Country Press— W. B. H. &
Sons.-A. B.-J. J. W.-W. D.— E. J.-F. M.-C. H. 1'.-
R. L. H.— R. P. B.-H. W. W.— C.T. D.— E. M. -T.W. G.
— W. H. C. -G. F. H.— F. C. E.

For Market Reports, sec page svi.

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March 10, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

145

THE

#iirbcncrs'CbionicIc

No. 1,002.— SATURDAY, March 10, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Apple trees on chalk soil

Birmingham, flower
shows at

Books, notices of —
Botanical Magazine ...
Climbing plants
Mendelism

Carnations, American...

Challenge cnp, a royal...

Conifers, new Chinese

County Council Garden-
ers

Cultural memoranda ..

Salvia splendens

Tecoma Smilhii x

Events of the vveek

Examinations in horti-
culture 153,

Flowers in season

Forcing fruits with the
aid of ether

Gardeners' societies,
proposed federation of

Grape Diamant Traube

Hydrocyanic acid gas,
vaporising with

Marshall, Mr. W., enter-
tained

Montbretias

the late -

155

148

154

155
155
155

Norman, G.

Obituary —

Sutton, Thos. H. ... 159

Orchards, the making of 147

Orcliid notes —
Dendrobium Wardia-
num

Plants, new and note-
worthy—
Yucca nitida

Potatos as salad

Potatos at Inverssk

Rhododendrons

Uoclteryat Leonardslee 148

Small Holdings 152

Societies —
Gardeners' Debating 159

Royal Botanic 153

Royal Horticultural 153, 15G
Surveyors' Institution 153

Weatlier in Co. Kildare 155

Week's Work, the —
Flower garden, the .
Fruits under glass
Hardy fruit garden ,
Kitchen garden, the .
Orchid houses, the .
Plants under glass .

Wych Elm, a large

151
151
151
151
150
150
152

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Marshall, Mr. William, portrait of 159

Opuntia Engelmanni in the rock-garden at Leonardslee,

Sussex 148

Picea complanata, a new Chinese Spruce 147

Picea montigena, a new Spruce from China 146

Saxifraga longifolia 149,150

Wych Elm, a large example of the, at Sharpham in

Devonshire (Supplementary lllustation).

Yucca nitida, a new species flowering in Kew Gardens 153

Yucca Whipple! ■— 154

THE AMERICAN CARNATION.

AFTER the splendid exhibits seen at the
Royal Horticultural Hall on February 13,
it is scarcely necessary to say that, for
winter flowering, the American raised
Carnations are far in advance of our own.
When these were first introduced into this
country considerable prejudice existed against
them on account of their fringed petals. And
when first they flowered there was nothing re-
markable in the blooms. But they have improved
greatly, and some growers who had discarded
them have again re-stocked them. The first in-
troductions were not equal to such as were seen
at Westminster on the 13th ult., although I find
that such early varieties as Daybreak, W. Scott,
and others are still grown. It was after the in-
troduction of the variety Mrs. T. W. Lawson that
English growers first begun to cultivate them
extensively for market. This standard variety did
not appear very promising judged by the first
flowers seen ; but after becoming properly estab-
lished it improved greatly. Very rapid strides
have also been made with other varieties, and
from the reports of the American Carnation
Society's Exhibition, further advance has been
made, and we may expect some more fine varie-
ties next season. English raisers have also been
busy, for althotigh few novelties were seen at

the recent show, we have some good English sorts
which have the vigorous habit and long stiff stems
characteristic of American varieties. The exhibit
awarded the Gold Medal at the above-named exhibi-
tion consisted entirely of American sorts. There
were not many varieties, but the exhibit contained
upwards of 1,200 blooms, the majority of which
were perfect specimens. They were arranged in
tall vases, the only garnishing being a few sprays
of Asparagus. The exhibitor, Mr. Engelmann,
has not been engaged in the culture of these
flowers for any considerable period, but he is
evidently highly successful with them. Mr. A.
F. Dutton was one of the first of the English
growers to show Carnations in proper American
style. He did not exhibit so extensively as Mr.
Engelmann, but his blooms were equally good in
quality. Mr.' S. Mortimer's display was also
noteworthy, especially as he exhibited good plants
in addition to flowers. Several Guernsey florists
showed remarkably fine blooms of a limited num-
ber of sorts. Except in a few instances the same
varieties were seen in all the exhibits. It may be of
interest if I refer to their relative merits under the
diflerent shades of colour.

White Varieties. — There are at least half a dozen
good "Whites." Glacier was the first white
variety with whicli I became acquainted. It is still
grown, but there are others which are superior.
The Belle is a full-size flower, and possesses a very
fragrant perfume. Queen Louise still remains a
favourite with some growers. White Mrs. T. W.
■Lawson has stiff stems, although they are not so
long as in other kinds. Lady Bountiful I should
select as the best white variety, the flowers being
of perfect form. I find this variety secured first
place among " Whites " in a recent competition in
America. A white sport from Enchantress may
take the lead later on. Mr. Dutton, with whom
this sport occurred, has named it "IverWhne,"
but I find the same sport has occurred in America,
where they call it the White Enchantress.

Blush Coloured aud P/iiA. ^Enchantress is a long
way ahead of any blush coloured variety — in fact,
it takes the lead among all American Carnations,
and during the past two years I believe blooms
have been seen in Covent Garden market almost
every morning ; it appears equally good for grow-
ing in summer as in winter. Alpine Glow is good,
and Fair Maid is another most desirable variety ;
it is deeper in shade than the Enchantress.
Floriana is slightly deeper than the last-named.
I find it varies in quality, but have seen good speci-
mens of it. Fiancee, which gained high honours
in America last year, has not proved altogether
satisfactory. Some American growers condemn it
unmercifully, and I was inclined to do the same,
for, until the recent show, I had not seen satis-
factory blooms, although it had been brought to
my notice many times. As seen at Westmmster,
however, in Mr. Engelmann's exhibit in three
large vases, it was very fine ; all were good, but
perhaps a little inclined to split, yet, taking
them as shown, one must admit that it is a variety
of great merit. Coming to Mrs. T. W. Lawson,
which is of a deep cerise pink colour. X need say
but little, as it is already well known. I have
heard it said that it is not so well grown here as in
America ; but this was contradicted by an Ameri-
can grower who went through Covent Garden
market with me some time since. In Nelson
Fisher we have a variety of a deeper shade of
colour, with large blooms and strong growth. The
plants of this variety shown by Mr. Mortimer
were very robust, while the blooms of this from
all growers were good (see p. 157).

Scarlet. — Of these there are at least half-a-dozen
first-class varieties, and it is difficult to discrimi-
nate. Christmas Eve, which recently gained an
Award of Merit from the Royal Horticultural
Society, is certainly one of the best, perhaps
not quite so vivid in colour as some, but very free

flowering and having perfectly-shaped flowers. The
Cardinal, which also gained an award last Nov-
ember, is of a deeper shade of colour still. It
appears one of the most promising. Flamingo is
very vivid in colour. It is a fine flower, but is a
little inclined to become scalded, while the ter-
minal flowers from strong growths generally
burst. Flowers developed from side shoots, how-
ever, possess good calyces. Adonis is another
fine scarlet.

C)7)Hsci«.— General Maceo was the first crimson
variety I knew. The flowers, though small, are
very bright, and it is free in blooming. Harry
Fenn is a decided improvement on the last-
named, although Governor Roosevelt comes very
close, and is preferred by some florists. Har-
lowarden should, perhaps, take first place in this
section. It has been shown in very fine condition
by all growers. In Messrs. T. S. Ware's, Ltd.,
exhibit I particularly noted this as one of the
best, and it has been good, all through the season.

Striped Farif^ffs.^^ Variegated Lawson and Mrs.
M. A. Patten run each other very close for supre-
macy, but I should give the first place to the last-
named, which has been good from all sources.

Yellow. — At present the demand exists for a
good "yellow." Dorothy Whitney, a deep
yellow flower with pink stripes, is the only yellow
variety I have seen. Although bright in colour
the flowers are small. It appears that American
growers Iiaye nothing much to offer in this colour.
The above :-*ariety crossed with Miss Audrey
Campbell or'Geoilir. should give good-results.

Prosperity should be added to the l.jst. This is
a variety with large, svveet-scente4flo'wers, having
a white ground-work mottled or splashed with
pink. They are developed on good stems. There
may be other varieties deserving mention, but the
above are those I have noted during the past two
years at shows and in the market.

Culture.
A few years ago I cultivated about half a dozen
of the American type with others of English
varieties, and I found that Mrs. Lawson, in
particular, started away much more strongly
in the spring than our own type, and made
excellent growths suitable for the making of
cuttings. When growing actively they require
plenty of pot room, and I believe that the American
system of planting them out in the summer-time
and again on benches when taken under glass in the
autumn is a great factor in maintaining a vigorous
stock. The planting on benches has been tried in
England, and although I have seen them doing
well under this treatment, I find opinions of
various growers are divided on the subject. It is
certainly possible to grow them well in pots, but
they require more pot room than is usually given
to English varieties. To obtain a vigorous stock
the first thing requisite is to see that strong,
healthy cuttings are secured ; and for this pur-
pose some of the stronger plants should be selected
and potted into larger pots, removing all the
flower buds as they appear. Another plan, if
convenience allows, is to plant a certain number
for stock plants. It may not be necessary for the
bulk of the stock to be so treated, but some at
least should have special attention.

With regard to the best time for propagating,-
I have always found it is of more importance to<
wait and secure good cuttings than to take them
at any particular time. From January until the end
of March the bulk may be secured , and the best cut-
tings are made from the short, thick, side shoots. I
have seen them rooted well on an open bench, but
I have succeeded best with a close case frame pro-
vided with a moderate bottom heat and a cooi
surface. The cuttings should never be allowed to
become withered . I prefer to take the cuttings early
in the morning, and the plants should be looked
at on the previous night and well watered if dry.

UG

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 190a.

When the cuttings are rooted in a close Irame,
they must be removed as soon as^ the roots
form, for they must never be allowed to be-
come drawn or weakened in growth by keeping
them in too close and warm an atmosphere. At
no stage can Carnations be forced, sunshine and
warmth may develop them, but they must have
ventilation, plenty of room, and all the sunshine
possible. The afi'ording of larger sized pots as the
plants require them, and of keeping them quite free
from all insect pests and fungoid diseases are
important matters. The light, cheaply built
houses of modern market growers are far better
suited to the requirements of Carnations than are
the heavy, expensive structures seen in many pri-
vate establishments.

In the above notes I liave confined my remarks
to the American varieties, but I do not mean to
infer that we have no good English raised sorts.
I hope to refer to these, and to my experience in
hybridising them in a later note. A. Hciiis/cy.

and even from their decorative character. Some
of them, of which Mr. Wilson was fortunate
enough to secure seed, are already in cultivation
in Messrs. Veitch's nursery at Combe Wood, and
of these we propose lo publish descriptions and
illustrations in these pages. The drawings have
been made for us with great fidelity by Mr.
Worthington .Smith. It must be borne in mind
that the drawings have been taken from her-
baritmi specimens, from which many of the leaves
have become detached in drying, so that the
reader must exercise his imagination and clothe
the bare twigs with dense foliage. This is
not a difficult matter, as the leaf-scars clearly
indicate the position of the leaves. It may
here be said that the form of these leaf-scars
and the cushions " pulvini ". beneath them,
especially in the Spruces (Picea), should be care-
fully examined, as they often afford soma means
of discrimination when others are not available.
?lax-v:n T ?J,utcrs.

120 to 60 feet, and has the general characters of
a Spruce. The older branches are grey, the
younger ones slightly setose, and of an orange
colour. The buds are broadly ovoid, covered
with light brown, oblong-ovate, subcoriaceous-
scales. The leaf-cushions or pulvini are ascend-
ing, straight, constricted near the tips, and sym-
metrical, not oblique near the apex. The leaves,
are about 1 cent, long, linear, curved, four-sided,
with prominent ridges, stomatiferous on both
surfaces, and with an acute or a somewhat ob-
tuse apex bevelled or sloped off on the dorsal
side. The male catkins are solitary on the sides.
of the branches near the ends, each about 2 ceiii.
long, oblong, anther-scales, scoop-shaped, pur-
plish, denticulate. Young female cones terminal
erect, with refiexed, purplish-violet, broadly-
ublong scales.

The ripe cones, 11 to 12 cent, long, 5 cent, lat.,
scales subcoriaceous, ascending, oblong, ovate,
undulate, light brown, flushed with purple.

The scales of the ripe cone retain something
of the purple colour of the young scales, but
are completely reversed in direction.

c:af(Dchron j

Fig. 55.-

-FICE-V MONriGEN.\.

On the leil a mature cone, real size ; on the nghl a branch nearly denuded of leaves in drying, and bearing an immalure purple cone. Other details show tufts of jouup
leaves and male-catkins, scale with seeds, detached seed, leaves and transverse section of leaf. The figures X2, x lo show the degree of enlargement. The young,

branches are more hairy than shown in the figure.

CHINESE CONIFERS.

Several species collected for Messrs. James
Veitch and Sons by Mr. E. H. Wilson in
his first journey to China were described and
figured in these columns in 1903, and a com-
plete enumeration of the species was given in the
Journal of Bolany, August, 1903. Mr. Wilson's
second journey was even more productive, as
will be gleaned from the interesting notes on
his journeyings now in course of publication
in these columns. Messrs. Veitch have been
good enough to place in my hands for identifi-
cation the specimens of Conifers procured by
their zealous and intelligent collector. They
comprise many new species, which ar^ .ery in-
teresting from the point of view of the botanist
and the geographer, whilst some may prove of
importance from the standpoint of the forester,

Picea moxtigena. (Mast. sp. nov.)* Fig. 56.
This is a species noted by Mr. Wilson as very
rare and growing near Tatien-lu, at an alti-
tude of 10,500 feet. It attains a height of from

* Picea montigf.na. Mast. sp. nov., fig. 56 :— Arbor 20-60
pedalis, mmulis novellis hirtulis pallide aurantiaco-fuscis.
mmis vetulis hirtulis seu glabratis fusco-cinereis. Pulvini
prominentes parum condensati, ascendentes, recti, oblongi
superne constricti.

GemtncE oblongo-ovoideEe squamis subcoriaceis ferrugineis
obtectae.

Folia quadrangulata 10-12 mill, long, :J-2 mill. lat.
arcuata, linearia,dorsoprope apicem cartilagineumfastigata,
nervo medio utrinque prominente, undique stomatifera.
Amenta niascula lateralia subsessilia circa 2 cent. long,
1 cent. lat. cylindrato-oblonga, squam® antheriferie trulli-
formesyiolace.'p ad margines superne laceratx.

Strobili fiicminci juvcniks terminales ascendentes rubro-
violaceiE, squamic applanalfe rotundatae lacera3 arete recur-
vatas, strobili ntaltni cylindrato-oblongo-obtusi 10 cent, long.,
4 cent. lat. Squama; appressas subcoiiaceffi oblonga;
truncate superne nndulatrc.

China Dec. propc Tatien-lu, ad alt. lo.ocoped. Wilson,
3.027 !

Judging from its habitat, the species will
probably prove hardy. The rich colour of both
the male and the female inflorescence gives it an
ornamental character. The manner in which the
young cone-scales are at first recurved and sub-
sequently become erect is worthy of remark.

Picea complanata. (iMast. sp. n.) Fig. 5..

This is a handsome Spruce Fir discovered by
Wilson in Western .Szechuan, where it forms
forests at an elevation of from 5,000 to 8,000
feet. The timber is used for building purposes.
It belongs to the section Omorika, having the
blue surface of the leaves uppermost ; but the
leaves, though scarcely four-sided, are not .50
markedly flattened as in most of the species of
that section. The younger branches are gla-
brous and of an orange-brown colour. The leaf-
cushions or '' pulvini " are prominent, oblong,
unsymmetrical beneath the apex, so th;it i'm

Makch 10, IDOC]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

147

somewhat three-sided cicatrices or leaf-scars
seem t& De beneath the apex, owing to
Ihe greater growth of the upper or axial
side of the pulvinus. This is especially
noteworthy on the very young shoots, but
is less apparent on the older shoots. The
Ouds are ovoid-conic, covered with rich brown,
:;hining, leathery, oblong scales. The leaves
are about ;j inch long, linear acute, not apicu-
(ate, somewhat flattened, but with the nerves
prominent on both surfaces, glaucous and
stoaiatiferous on the upper surface, arid
bevelled near the apex on the green dorsal sur-
face. The leaves are thus like those of P.
ajanensis in having the glaucous surface upper,
most, but are less flattened than in that species.
]<i|)e cone between 4 to 5 inches long, oblong-
cylindric. Scales slightly appressed, slight!;- "
(onvex, transversely oblong or rounded, uppeVi
border slightly everted denticulate. Seeds wit j
;i ferruginous, membranous, oblong wjng.t

THE MAKING OF ORCHARDS.
III.

(Concluded from page 100. )

Pl.AXTING THE TERES.

Although the period during which fruit trees
may be planted extends from the time when the
leaf falls until the spring season has really be-
^'un, much depends upon the nature of the season
it.self, as also upon the kind of weather at the
jirecise moment of planting. For instance, in a
winter such as that through which we have nearlv
pa.ssed, orchard planting has been possible in
most parts of the country upon five days out of
evcr_v six, becau.so only now and again has the
frost been of sufficient severity to interfere with
operations. Frost, however, is not the only
ihing that interferes with the work at planting
time, for an excess of rain in a badly drained or
heavy .soil renders the ground quite unfit for
labi;rr of th-is kind, making the work far more
laborious and unpleasant, and giving the trees a
send-off of the worst possible description. A
fruit tree which is expected to settle itself in a
mixture of soil which approaches more nearly
the consistency of a mud-pie than anything else,
is very much handicapped at the start, for the
wet soil thrown on to its roots will form a cake
round them like so much mortar, and so, as it
were, suffocate them at the very beginning, if it
<'-oes not actually destroy many of the more deli-
cate fibres. Treatment of this sort, although
the actual health of the tree may not be ap-
])arentl3' affected, is causing unseen damage to
that very part of the tree's constitution which,
from a fruit-bearing point of view, it is most
necessary to protect, and the effect will be seen
at a later peiiod when the fruit spurs on the
branches fail to develop as they otherwise
should. Cold, windy weather is also a bad
])eriod for tree-planting, not only because it dries
up the soil on the surface, but also on account
• if the damaging influence to the exposed roots
iif the trees got ready for planting. Mild, open
weather is, of cour.se, the be.st of all ; but the
planter must be guided by the nature of his soil,
remembering that a good start is in this matter,
as in many another, more than half the battle.
Fruit trees will do no harm if kept out of the
ground for a week or so, or even longer, in the
case of severe frost, provided that they are well
protected in the meanwhile. The be.st way to
do this, supposing that for one reason or another
they cannot at once be transferred to their per-
manent quarters, is to lay them carefully tugether
in an almost perpendicular position against a
wall or hedge in some sheltered corner out of the
wa}- of cold winds, covering up the roots as one

t PiCEA COMPLANATA, Mast. sp. nov., fig. 57 : — .\rbor 40-100
peel. Rami gabri, fulvo-aurantiaci. Pulvini proniiiientes
superne oblique dilatati, cicatrices patentes subangiilatse.
Gcmmtr ovoiileo-coniciE, squamis coriaceis castaneis late
ovato-acutisoperlK. Folia 20-22 mill. long, i mill. lat. Hiiearia
acuta planiuscula, uervo medio utrinque prominente, superne
,^'lauca, subtus viridia. versus apicem fastigata.

StrnOihis imuiaturus purpurascens maturitate fusciis 13-14
cent. long, cylindrato-conicus. Squamce bninnea" transverse
oblougiE sou rotundats sernilatre nonnunquain parum
cversai.

Scnsiiiis ala membranacea pallide ferruginea, oblonga
ncuts

China Occident, in silvis prov. Szechuan, ad alt. 5000-
frwo ped. ubi legit Wilson, nn. 3030. 3031! P. Morindae
necnoii P. inoriniioides afflnis, ditfert autem foliis, stro-
biloruniqne -squamis.

goes along with some dry litter, leaves, sand, or
garden mould, to protect them from frost and
drying winds. A moderate amount of rain will do
no harm, but should spring be. approaching it is
advisable to keep the roots from getting too moist,
as such a condition might excite the trees to
premature growth, which will only cause a check
when they are removed for planting. If, there-
fore, trees waiting to be planted can be stored
under cover, so much the better, although, under
ordinary circumstances, any odd sheltered corner

usual period of budding. Such kinds as these
will receive no harm from late planting, and
wonderful things can be done even when the
trees are very far advanced in the spring. Ex-
periments of this sort are, however, for the am.a-
teur who has, perhaps, only a dozen or two trees
to handle, and not for the orchard planter who
may be dealing with hundreds. It does not mat-
ter very much what ihe weather may be after
planting, but the trees should be well settled in
their positions (and an extra look round taken to

X-2.'

Fig. 57. — PiCE.v complax.'VT.\ (see page 146).

Showing to the left a mature cone, to the right a shoot with buds, but mostly denuded of foliage and an immature
cone. In the centre are shown a portion of an older shoot with leaf seen from the front and from the side and
magnified two diameters : the cross section magnified ten times shows the flattened leaf. Beneath are views of
the cone-scales and seeds magnified two diameters. The bract shown at the back of the scale was observed

by the artist.

will do. Very late planting in the spring is not
to be recommended, because the buds which
have already begun to swell upon the trees are
apt to be knocked off in the process of removal
and replanting ; and the trees, in which the sap
is already active, will receive a severe check
unless verv expeditiously handled. In a lats
spring one can sometimes continue planting a
fortnight cr three weeks later than in the aver-
age season, and there are certain varieties which
do not show signs of growth until long after the

see th.=it all are securely tied to the stakes) against
the coming of the equinoctial gales towards the
end of March.

Drainage.
The question of drainage is an important one
in the newly-planted orchard, but it is a matter
which can very well be left till the trees are
planted. The laying of pipes is always an ex-
pensive process, and verj- often, after consider-
able time and money have been spent in this
direction, the results are not wholly s.itisfac-

]48

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 1906.

tory. It is, indeed, a mistake to plant trees on
any soil which is at times in such a waterlogged
condition that drainage by means of pipes is
necessary. The money will at all times be better
spent in the purchase price or in the annual rent,
unless, indeed, in the latter case, one can get
one's landlord to share the expense — usually by
no means an easy matter. The proximity of
pipes in the neighbourhood of fruit trees is,
however, not at all desirable. The roots will
scon find their w-ay into the pipes, with the re-
sult that the former will often be lying in water,
and the latter will be displaced or broken,
thereby upsetting the whole system and defeating
the chief object of the pipes. Drainage may be
necessary here and there in orchards which, for
the most part, are well drained, and if the water
in times of heavy rainfall happens to collect in
small depressions on the surface, some means

if the work has been well carried out and all
finished in good time, may rest a while and sur-
vey his work with satisfaction. The first thing
that is likeh' to cause him trouble will be the
appearance of weeds, and here let it be said that,
so soon as they begin to make themselves evi-
dent, they should be destroyed whenever the
weather is favourable. Many people defer weed-
ing while the plants are yet small, under the
mistaken idea that it is waste of time to go all
over the ground while only a few weeds are ap-
parent here and there. But it should be remem-
bered that for ever}' small weed visible to the
eye there are a thousand which will become ap-
parent within a few hours after the first shower
of rain, and that, should a wet period set in,
these may in the space of a few days grow to a
size greater than the hoe can cope with effec-
tively. ^^'hen the weeds are onlv small so that

Fig. 58. — opuNTi.i engelmanxi

[Phoio by J. Gregory.
THE GARDENS AT LEONARDSLEE. SUSSEX.

must be taken to carry it away. Usually a few
open ditches will do all that is required ; but if
pipes are really necessary they should be laid so ,
far as possible away from the roots of the trees
between the rows. Surface water which only
lies about for a few hours will do no harm ; it
is that which lies below the soil on the top of
an impenetrable subsoil which does daraaee to
the roots. The necessity therefore of obtaining
at the outset a naturally well-drained soil with a
porous subsoil is readily apparent. Thorough
cultivation before planting will also do much to
keep the ground in good condition for many a
long day, and if occasion should require it the
use of the subsoil plough will work wonders in
a soil which is not over well drained in the first
instance.

WEEDiNG.

The trees once planted, very little remains to
be done for some time to come, and the planter.

a hos run lightly through the ground just below
the surface will uproot them, one good man
can get over a surprising amount of ground in
a little time ; but if the work be deferred until
each individual weed requires a chop of the hoe
to itself, the same man will show but a poor re-
sult for a day's work, and the job will never be
so effectively done. Small weeds soon wither,
and the soil falls readilv off their fragile roots,
so that they quickly die ; but the big weeds,
which the hoe can seldom destroy unless
it be dug deeply into the soil, will start growing
again, even in moderately dry weather,
nourished, as they are, by the soil clinging to
their matted roots. If time presses and labour
be scarce, let the work at least be done often in
the immediate vicinity of the trees, for it is here
that it is of the most importance. The hoe is
the best tool for I'ne purpose, for it destroys the
weeds, and at the same time keeps the surface in

a good friable condition, thus keeping the ground
beneath in a moist state during summer, and
letting the roots of the trees obtain the full bene-
fit of sun and air. A light fork is useful in the
autumn for forking in the remainder of previous
top-dressings of manure, but the tool must be
in the hands of a careful man who understands
the delicacy of the work in which he is en-
gaged, and who will not go deep enough to draw
the fibres out of the soil and so destroj' them.
Horse tackle is best kept out of the orchard alto-
gether, for it is almost impossible to prevent
damage to the trees either by the horse or the
implement that he draws behind him. "^ Such
treatment is only permissible where trees are
planted very wide apart, and even then it re-
quires a careful man to imdertake the job.

As for pruning, which is a luatter too lengthy
to be entered into on this occasion, none will be
needed the first season, for the trees, whatever
their size, should come from the nursery ready
pruned before lifting, and it will be better to let
them go ahead the first summer as fast as they
like, cutting back rather hard the second season
after planting, if necessary. Careful and scienti-
fic pruning, thorough cultivation, and constant
attention to the attacks of blight in its many
forms will, for the future, be the chief care of
the orchard owner ; but all these things come
rather under a heading different to that which
concerns the original making of orchards. East
Sussex. I m

THE ROCKERY AT LEONARDS-
LEE.

Opu.ntias succeed well in the rock garden at
Leonardslee, Horsham, the residence of Sir E. G.
Loder, Bt., where the species cultivated include
O. monacantha, O. glauca, and O. Engelmanni.
The species last named is represented by a large
group which measures 8 feet from front to back and
10 feet long (see fig. 58). It is growing on a rather
sharpslope which faces to the south, and having the
natural protection of a large piece of overhanging
rock. The Opuntias are grown in a specially pre-
pared soil composed of loam, leaf-soil and sand in
equal parts with a little lime-rubble added. The
photograph from which the illustration has been
prepared was taken in January, and shows the
plants to be unprotected, as they are during the
whole of the winter. Tliere are also several very
fine plants of Saxifraga longifolia. The one
illustrated at fig. 59 measures 11 inches across,
and is grown between two large stones having
about 2 inches of soil between them. This
soil is composed of light loam with a little wood
ashes added, but the plants succeed equally well
in any light, sandy soil in several well-drained
positions on the rockery. The species flowers at
about July, and the illustration at fig. 60 shows
how remarkably well it succeeds m the Jardin
Alpin d'Acclimatation, Geneva

ORCHID NOTES.

DENDKOBIUM WARDIANU.M.
The notes on p. 99 lead me to offer one or
two supplementary remarks on this beautiful
Orchid. My memory takes me back to the
famous collection of John Day, Esq., Totten-
ham, who cultivated the Assam form, and in
several seasons produced flowers of intense
beauty and vivid colouring. This plant was
known at first as D. Ealconeri obtusum, since
it was considered a form of that pendent reedy-
growing species. When, however, it flowered
with Dr. Ward, of Southampton, it was at once
recognised as distinct and much superior to, D.
Falconeri. In the famous collection of ,S.
Mendel, Esq., Mauley Hall, was a fine plant of
this same form, and, on account of its rarity, it
realised a goodly sum when the collection^was
disposed of by auction. When, however, .the
Burmese variety, with its stout pseudo-bulbs and
thickened nodes, was discovered, vast quantities
were imported, and were eagerly purchased by
orchidists. And yet, how very few are the large

March 10, 190G ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

1-19

specimen plants one meets with that have been
grown, rested, and flowered, and increased in
size, vigour and floriferousness for a number of
years. It would almost appear as though large
size in plants could not be attained, but that,
after a few years, the native vigour was lost, and
the strength of the plants continuously dimin-
ished.

The reference to treatment in the note already
referred to implies that heat and moisture are ■
absolutely necessary to the formation of growth
and flowers. It is extremely difhcult to say that
the treatment given in one house would bring
about similar results in another structure, and
by a different grower. The practice adopted here
for some few years is not quite the same as that
in use at Tring Park. I mention this because
the result so far has been considerably in ad-
vance of anything I have succeeded in obtain-
ing under the heat and moisture treatment.

Our plants are grown in 5-inch pots, with just
a bit of peat, snhaenum-mnss and crorl^s iiitt-no'

begin to swell ; but it is not until Christmas
time that the plants are again put into heat. The
result of this method has been eminently satis-
factory, for we have them in flower at the
present time with 16, 18, 19 and 21 open flowers
on a single growth. The blooms are of great
substance, and the colours are well developed.

I certainly advise those who have a number of
plants to put them in the greenhouse or inter-
mediste house during the summer and autumn ;
the growth will be more sturdy, will be better
ripened, and the flowers will appear far more
numerously. Of course constant syringing must
be given in the greenhouse, and water must be
afforded the roots, but an open soil as I have
indicated seems to be the proper medium for the
roots, and, since attention must be given to
them every day, they will not become sour and
soddened through excess of water. W. Swan,
Thorncote, Staines. [Some excellent flowers pro-
duced by this method of treatment accompanied
this (ommunication. — Fn 1

Fig. 59. — SAXIFR.\GA LON'GIFOLIA GROWING IN THE ROCKERY AT LEONARDSLEE.

(For text see page 148.)

from the surface. They are mostly placed on a
bed with an ash bottom when subjected to a
■ little heat, and on an ordinary stage when in the
greenhouse. We have many in bloom in the
conservatory at the present time where the tem-
perature falls sometimes at night time to 50°,
and occasionally lower. As the plants pass out
of flower they are placed in a warm house, and
the growth (which has just started) is stout and
vigorous. During the month of May the plants
are stood in a greenhouse, where Fuchsias, Zonal
Pelargoniums, etc., are grown, some vines in the
same house giving shade. The young growths
develop clean and strong, and the pseudo-bulbs
are much stouter than when grown in heat. This
greenhouse treatment is continued all through
the summer and autumn, until growth has
finished, and the last leaf is developed. Water
is then withheld, and by November the buds

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

TECOMA SMITHII x .
This beautiful, free-flowering greenhouse
climber was introduced into this country from
Australia. The flowers are produced on large
panicles, and are of a bright orange colour, with
chestnut-brown markings at the base of the
lobes, forming a dark ring around the throat.
Young growths about 3 inches in length taken
off with a "heel" and inserted round the edge
of 3-inch pots filled to their rims with light
sandy soil, placed in heat, and watered, will
soon form roots. Where only a few plants are
desired, a simple and efficient method of rooting
the cuttings is to plunge the 3-inch pot in another
of a 6-inch size partly filled with sawdust or leaf-
tnould, and cover with a piece of glass, which

should not be allowed to touch the cuttings.
As soon as the latter become rooted the glass
should be tilted for a day or two before finally
removing it, in order to inure the young plants
to the general atmospheric temperature of the
house. They should be potted singly into small
60's, using fine, sandy mould for a potting
medium. ,

BOUGAINVILLEA FORMOSA.

The free growth, and, under comparatively
cool treatment, abundant flowering qualities of
this semi-scandent plant, combined with a pro-
fusion of the richly-coloured bright purplish-
mauve bracts, render it a most desirable sub-
ject for the embellishment of warm greenhouses
and conservatories. The plant is easily propa-
gated from cuttings, about 3 inches in length,
taken with a "heel" — that is, with a slice of
the w-ood of the previous year's growth attached
— and inserted round the edge of 60-size pots.
Use sifted leaf-mould and sandy loam in about
equal parts, and surface the whole with silver
sand. Place the cuttings in a propagating pit,
and water through a fine rose. When the tiny
plants have made a little ton growth they should
be potted singly into small 60-size pots in the
same compost as before, which should be made
moderately firm. Place the plants in heat, and
ffford water as recommended above. H. W.
Ward, Ray high.

SALVIA SPLENDENS.

We have a nice batch of plants in flower now
that have been grown from cuttings inserted on
August 20. The cuttings were procured from
plants growing outside ; such soff cuttings make
roots very readily if plunged in the propagating
frame. When sufficiently rooted the young plants
were potted off singly into 3-inch pots, and grown
on in a cold frame. The compost used was loam
and leaf-soiLin equal parts, with the addition of a
small quantity of well-rotted manure. When the
roots began to take hold of the new soil the point
of each shoot was pinched out. The final potting
took place on September 25, when they were
shifted into 5J-inch pots and returned again to a
cold frame. At the end of the first week in
October the plants were removed to a house
having an atmospheric temperature of 55°, and
the shoots were then stopped for the last time.
They are now in full flower and are much ap-
preciated. These Salvias are very effective when
associated with Daffodils, Freesias, and Adiantum
Ferns. We always grow a quantity of large
plants which flower during November and De-
cember, but I find these later flowering plants
more useful, although smaller in size. They are
about 20 inches in height, and have ten or more
flower-spikes upon each. 11". /. Sniil, Wimpole
Hull Gardens, Roiston.

EUPATORIUM PETIOLARE.
(See Figure in Ganloicrs' Chronicle. March

12th, 1904, p. 163.)
This showy winter-flowering plant, with its
pretty, graceful, light, branching stems, is a
welcome addition to our greenhouses, especially
at this season of the year. It is curious that
after a lapse of nearly thirty years this plant
should leap into popularity once more. After
the normal flowering period is passed, by re-
ducing the shoots to about one-half their length,
the new growths will produce a further supply
of the fragrant blossoms well into April and
Mav. After this further period of flowering,
again cut back the shoots, and the new "breaks"
will furnish a supply of cuttings. These should
be placed eight or ten in a six-inch pot, in a
compost of well-sifted loam, leaf-soil, and road-
grit or silver sand.. Place the pots containing
the cuttings in a small hand-light in a house
in which they can be given a little bottom heat.
Here the}' will root readily, and, when rooted,
let a little ventilation be given to the propa-
gating light, increasing this in quantity day
by da}-, until the cuttings are robust and
strong, when the hand-light may be dispensed

150

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 1906.

■with. After the lights are removed, the plants
should be placed on a shelf near to the glass,
for the purpose of hardening them off.
As soon as the cuttings are sufficiently rooted,
pot them into good-sized pots (for they are
gross feeders), using the same compost as be-
fore. The compost for their next shift would
be composed of well-chopped turfy loam, leaf-
soil, and decayed horse droppings, with a sprink-
ling of road-grit to keep the whole open. Pot
the plants firmly. As soon as they have estab-
lished themselves in their new pots, they should
be hardened off to such a degree that they may
be stood in the open. The roots must never be
allowed to become very dry. The plants should
be stopped at a height of 9 inches or 1 foot,
and again when the new growths are half that
length, in order to encourage a bushy habit.
When well rooted, they can easily be transferred
to their flowering pots, which should consist
either of. large 'JA's or large 3:2's, and some
may require even larger sizes than these.
;Use a compost of soil similar to that used
for thair previous shift, but it should be
coarser in texture, and contain a small quantity
of soot. Keep the plants staked whilst grow-
ing, allowing plenty of room for their proper
development, and, when well rooted, afford
weak applications of liquid manure. Through-
out the autumn, during the growing period, they
will require plenty of water, for the}' must not
be allowed to flag. On the appearance of frost,
they should be housed in a temperature just
above freezing point. Should green-fly make its
appearance, fumigate the plants lightly, and at
two or three separate intervals, rather than apply
an overdose, as the foliage is very liable Xo
injury from this process. They should be given
plenty of light and air. Apparently there are
two varieties of this plant, the one flowering
in January, and the other in mid-February.
The latter kind has larger inflorescences and
flowers, and the habit is not so branched as the
earlier flowering type. Toriiim.

cool and their immediate surroundings moist, so
that they will not require heavy waterings
until each plant is well rooted in the compost.
The surface of the soil should be sprayed over
very lightly whenever it appears dry, so as to
induce the moss to grow. These cool-growing
Odontoglossums do not appreciate fire heat ;
therefore, unless sharp frosts or very cold winds
occur, they are better without it, and when heat
has to be used let it be as little as will suffice.
If during very cold nights the water pipes are
made just lukewarm, and the house is covered
as was advised in my last Calendar, a suitable
atmospheric temperature of about 50° will be
easily maintained. Shade the plants from all
direct sunshine, and ventilate freely through the
bottom ventilators whenever the outside atmos-
phere is above 45°. In mild, damp weather, with
the thermometer in the screen above 50°, we
open the top ventilators also. Without doubt,
O. crispum is a lover of pure fresh air at all
times, and it is essential to their healthy develop-
ment. If all goes well with these imported
pieces of Odontoglossum they will, by the
autumn, have made new pseudo-bulbs, and be
ready to start growing again, when they will
require to be shifted into larger pots, where less
drainage and more material to root into can be
supplied.

perfect drainage is a most important item, as.
these plants, when growing, require abundar.f
root waterings. A humid atmosphere should bL»
maintained lor them, but avoid syringing the
foliage, for should the water contain a small
percentage of lime, it will leave a deposit, and.
thus destroy the effect of the beautiful metallic
hues usually seen on these plants. In potting
use a very porous compost, consisting of rough,
fibrous peat, half-decayed oak leaves, dried cow
manure, some -J-inch crocks and charcoal,
and a fair proportion of living sphagnum-moss
and coarse sand. If the compost is surfaced
with sphagnum-moss, it will give a neat ap-
pearance to the plant.

Anthurium Schcrzcriannm. — Any plants that
require re-potting should now be given atten-
tion. If any have become of too large a
size to be conveniently used for decorative
purposes, let these be at once separated and re-
potted into pots 6 or 7 inches in diameter,
as this size will be found most useful. The
brilliant coloured spathes are always of much
value in grouping, whether in the stove, inter-
mediate, or dwelling house. If a few spathes
be cut with long stems, and associated with
Arum Lilies, they will have a charming effect
when arranged in largo vases. The la?tnig cniali-

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrenxe,
Bart., Burford, Surrej'.

Pleioncs. — Now that plants of P. humilis and
P. Hookeriana have passed out of flower, and
new growths have started, they should be re-
potted at once into a compost consisting of peat,
loam, and chopped sphagnum-moss, with a
sprinkling of silver sand, having first mixed
these mat.^rials well together. Suspend the
plants near to a roof ventilator in the cool
house, and until the roots have obtained a firm
hold on the compost, and the young growths are
advancing satisfactorily, afford water but spar-
ingly ; afterwards the supply may be consider-
ably increased.

Odontoglossum crispum. — Imported pieces that
arrive at this season should at once be
thoroughly cleared of all rubbish and decaying
parts, and where time will allow, each piece may
be placed into as small a pot as can con-
veniently be used, filling up around the base of
the pseudo-bulbs entirely Avith small crocks. It
is not advisable to put in several pieces together
with the idea of making a large or specimen
plant in the first season, because the plants will
differ considerably when they flower, and
scarcely can two be found that are alike. Where
large quantities are obtained, a good plan is to
lay some boards or slates upon the stage and
cover these with a thin layer of rough sphagnum-
moss, laying each plant separately upon the
moss. The pseudo-bulbs will not need to be
syringed or damped overhead, as the moisture
arising fro.m the usual damping down will be
suflicient, and too much damping overhead is
often the cause of decay occurring in the pseudo-
bulbs. These freshly imported plants should be
frequently examined, and as each piece com-
mences to grow, let it be potted up. The pots
used should be of small sizes, and they should
be filled to quite three-parts of their depth with
crocks, over which place a layer of sphagnum-
moss. Keep the base of each plant on a level
with the rim of the pot, and fill up to the
rhizome with equal parts of peat and sphagnum-
moss, cutting it up together rather roughly, and
mixing with it a moderate quantity of broken
crocks. After the potting process, the principal
object of the grower should be to keep the plants

FlC. 6o. — SAXIFK.-VG.i LONGIFOLI.\ IN THE JARDIN ALPIN d'aCCLIMATATION, CliNEN'A.

(For text see p.ige 148.)

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. CROMWiiLL, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, AUerton, Liverpool.
Caladiums. — The resting period being over,
shake out the tubers from the old soil, and if
they are intended for exhibition, select the
strongest and place them in pots, 6 or 7
inches in diameter, from which they will need
to be transferred to larger pots later on. The
smaller-sized tubers may then be placed into
5-inch pots for use in furnishing. If Cala-
diums are subjected to the temperature of a
greenhouse before using them for grouping m
house decorations, they will serve very well.
The compost I use when potting the plants con-
sists of good turfy loam one-third, and the re-
mainder of leaf-mould, turfy peat, and a liberal
quantity of coarse sand, charcoal, and crock
sif tings. A small quantity of Standen's
manure is used in the soil, and I find it helps to

develop the rich colouring in the leaves and
increase their size.

A'.ocasia Sandcriana and other varieties will
now need to be re-potted. The provision of

ties of the spathes when cut are sufficient reason
for increasing the stock of this useful stove
plant. Success will be attained if the plants
be grown in a mixture of good fibrous loam,
from which the finer particles have been ex-
cluded, peat, dried cow-manure, coarse sand,
arid charcoal, with sphagnum-moss added. Per-
fect drainage is essential, and liberal supplies
of liquid manure and soot should be afforded
the plants when the spathes are advancing.

General Remarks. — Careful ventilation is of
the highest importance ; the underground 3r
wall ventilators should be used at the present
time in preference to those in the roof. Main-
tain a humid atmosphere to encourage free
growth in all newly-potted plants. Hippeas-
trums (Amaryllis) that have passed out of flower
should now be encouraged to make good leaves
and a strong bulb for flowering next season.
Syringe the plants freely, and keep them close
to the glass, bearing in mind that a bulb is the
store-house for the flower. Take every opportunity
to prevent insect pests by employing light
fumigations ; don't wait for their appearance.

Makch 10, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

151

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiuKlNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Melons. — Plants that were raised early in January
and grown on the cordon system should be
stopped when about halfway up the trellis,
which will hasten the formation of side shoots
and encourage the plants to come into liower
more quickly. By allowing three blooms to open
on each plant before pollenising them, an even
" set" will be secured, and the fruits will be likely
to swell simultaneously. Ripe fruits can be had
in 15 weeks from the time of sowing at this time
of year. Seeds should again be sown for suc-
cession, if house accommodation can be provided.
Close the houses early in the afternoons and main-
tain the atmosphere in a moist condition.

The Orchard House. — If the trees were given
attention in the autumn as regards repotting and
top-dressing they will be in a satisfactory condi-
tion for fruiting, and may now be transferred from
the plunging material where they will have been
all winter, to the cool house, where they will soon
commence to expand the blossoms. Afford each
tree plenty of space for the fruit and foliage to
obtain sunlight. Artificial heat is not necessary,
especially during the early stages of growth. If
the atmospheric temperature of the house can be
kept below 50" at night so much the better. The
houses must be freely ventilated at all times when
external conditions are favourable, and more par-
ticularly when the trees are in flower. When the
trees are in flower it will be necessary to distribute
the pollen each day by giving the trees a
gentle shake. The trees do not require much
water at the present time.

Pot Vines that were started in November are
fast swelling their fruits and will now require
liquid manure, well diluted, for if applied too
strong it would turn the feeding roots black and
ruin the crop. To alternate with the liquid man-
ure use Peruvian guano by sprinkling a little on
the top of the soil and watering it in with tepid
water. Continue to maintain a bottom heat of 70°
and keep all sub-laterals pinched as they appear.

Successional Vines. — Black Hamburghs will now
demand close attention in regard to disbudding,
stopping, and tying, for if a quantity of surplus
growths are cut out all at once it must interfere
with the root action. Ventilation is important
and should be applied gradually as the atmos-
phere of the house becomes warmer, avoiding
cold draughts always.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh .\. Pettigkew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Half-hardy Annuals. — Phlox Drummondii is
one of our most useful and effective half-hardy
annuals, and because of its varied and brilliant
colours is indispensable in the flower garden.
The dwarf compact varieties are invaluable for
planting beneath Roses, . or as surface plants
under other tall growing species, while the
grandiflora sections can be used in masses by
themselves, or as appropriate subjects for the
mixed flower border. Seeds of varieties, in dis-
tinct colours, should be sown at the present
time in shallow boxes in light, sifted soil
pressed firm, and placed in a warm, moist at-
mosphere. As soon as the seedlings are large
enough, they should be pricked out into larger
boxes filled with rich soil, allowing sufficient
space between the plants to save the necessity
of further pricking off. If afforded a tempera-
ture of 55° to 60°, the seedlings will soon be fit
for removing to cool frames to harden off.

Salpiglosiis. — The sowing of seed now in
boxes is a better method of culture for this
beautiful plant than that of sowing later out
of doors, as advocated by many growers. If
sown now, the seedlings will flower in the warm
dry weather of summer and early autumn, and
are then seen to the best advantage. When
sown later, the bloom is usually destroyed by
rain and bad w-eather, and the plant also, under
these conditions, gives off an objectionable
odour.' ..The best plan is to sow very thinly in
boxes in light, sandy soil, and allow the seed to
germinate in moderately brisk heat ; but when
the seedlings are through the soil, plenty of
fresh air must be admitted, as the Salpiglossis
is very liable to damp off. When strong enough,
prick them off into boxes, placing them in gentle
warmth to induce them to root readily, and
when established harden off preparatory to
planting them out at the end of April. If

massed in their different shades, the display Is
goregous, so rich are the colours and markings
of this beautiful flower.

Nieoliana Saitdcm, notwithstanding adverse
criticisms, is undoubtedly — when w-ell cultivated
— a valuable acquisition to our gardens. Its
rose-coloured flowers, conjointly with the bold
appearance of the plant, makes it a most desir-
able ornament for the border, while a bed de-
voted solely to it is extremely attractive. If
the hybrids in distinct colours, the seed of
which is sent out this spring for the first time,
grow as luxuriantly, and flower as profusely,
they will prove invaluable. Sow the seeds ot
all the Nicotianas now in heat. When large
enough, prick off the seedlings into large boxes,
and again when necessary pot the seedlings into
5 or 6-inch pots.

T/ic Japanese Pinks (Dianthus Ileddewigii)
either mixed or in colours are splendid in beds
by themselves, or in conjunction with other
flowering plants. Although the species is often
used as a bi-annual, it is easier grown and more
useful treated as a half-hardy annual. Sown
now in heat, plants can be had fit for planting
out in Ma}', and will be in flower by end of June.

The Corsican Daisy (Erigeron mucronatus),
with its pretty white flowers shaded with rose
colour, is a beautiful, dwarf plant suited for the
hardy flower border, or the rock garden, as it
remains in flower for a long time during the
summer months. It is perennial, but if sown
now in heat will flower early in summer.

Marguerite Carnations, and the new quick-
flowering varieties of this plant, should, if not
already done, be sown at once for flowering in
the autumn. If sown now in shallow boxes
and placed in heat, the seedlings will be soon
ready for potting into small thumb pots. When
rooted sufficiently they, should be again moved
into slightly larger pots, using a prepared com-
post of rich, gritty soil. They will then make
sturdy and strong plants fit for planting out, or
for using in vases, by the end of the month of
May.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Kdmunu G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Vigs. — Fig trees will grow in nearly any soil, but
in well-manured ground they grow too rapidly
and fruit but little. They require to have the
roots somewhat confined ; in instances where
they are not already restricted they should be
made so. If the trees ctre planted against a wall
and the soil appears to be too rich, make a
border about 6 feet in width, and build a
concrete wall, or one of rough bricks, below the
ground level to confine the roots to the border.
Fig trees growing in sandy soil are not exces-
sively vigorous, and may be fed with
liquid manure when the fruits are swelling. The
trees need a hard bottom for the roots, and I
know of several cases where good crops are
obtained annually from very old trees whose
roots have apparently nothing but a hard road
to grow in. These trees make the necessary
amount of wood, but there is not much pruning
needed beyond thinning out the shoots. As a
general rule, however, trees planted against walls
require more pruning than they get. All the
gross wood should be thinned out, retaining the
well ripened, short jointed shoots. These latter
should be laid in straight, leaving ample room to
lay in other shoots during the growing season.
In many cases the shoots will require pruning ;
especially should this be done when one or more
shoots are more vigorous than others, for it is
these long sappy shoots that fail to ripen well,
and are therefore unproductive. The bearing
shoots should be laid in their whole length.
Others may be pruned back to one or two ejes,
and if both " break " and are not required, rub
off the one less favourably placed. Aim at getting
a supply of fruiting wood in the middle of the
tree. In regard to protecting the trees, I may
say that I have not found much benefit to follow
the practice of covering them, though I have ex-
perimented with trees on the same walls. If you
cover up sufficiently to protect the trees from
severe frost, growth will commence whilst they
are so covered, and the last state will be worse
than the first. I have given up protection except
in rare instances, such as when a sharp frost is
foreseen in May ; those on a south wall may then
be covered. Growers in various districts, how-
ever, must be guided by circumstances. Brown

Turkey is the most reliable variety, and when

grown well the fruits attain to a large size and
are delicious.

Black Currant Mile (Phytoptus ribis). — Ex-
amine the plantations of Black Currant bushes,
and if any more big buds are noticed have them
at once picked off and burnt — a couple of men
or boys will destroy a lot in a short time. I dis-
covered a few on the bushes here and had them
picked off and the ground well dressed with
lime. Several trees that were badly infested
were rooted up, and up to the present no other
swollen buds have been seen. The trees will
be all the better if sprayed again with Richards'
XL-All Winter Wash.

Fruit 'Room. — Throw out all decaying fruits.
Apples are keeping well, especially the varieties
Blenheim Pippin, Cockle Pippin, Barnack
Beauty, Beafin, and Dumelow's Seedling.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN. '

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Brassica Seeds. — Seeds of many varieties of
Cabbage and similar plants may now be sown
extensively out of doors. Select an open piece of
ground, and fork it over on a dry day, in order to-
get it into first-rate tilth. If the ground is of a
heavy nature sow the seeds in lines, and cover
them with finely sifted soil. But if the soil is.
more suitable, mark out a bed 4 feet wide and
scatter the seeds" broadcast, but thinly. If birds,
are troublesome it is best to afford protection by-
netting the whole bed over straightaway, other-
wise much damage may be done before it is
noticed. Cauliflowers, in various varieties, Brus-
sels Sprouts, Savoys, Kales, Kohl Rabi, Cabbages,
both white and red. Broccoli, &c., should be sown,
together with any other kinds that there is a
demand for. Make anotlier sowing three weeks^
later for succession. It is of the utmost import-
ance to sown thinly and not allow the plants ever
to become overcrowded. Avoid sowing on the
same ground as was used for this purpose last year.

Slugs. — These are troublesome during mild
weather in the spring, and often the plants from a
whole seed bed may be cleared in a very short
time. Where this is feared let some slacked lime
be forked into the soil when preparing the seed
bed. It is well to repeat the application of lime
when the seedlings appear, but the operation then
should take place after dark when the slugs, being
already on the surface in search of food, will
immediately come into contact with the lime. It
is next to useless to sow lime on the surface
through the day with a view to killing the slugs,
as they are then in their shelters, and will wait
there until the strength of the lime becomes ex-
hausted. Make a determined effort early in the
season to lessen their numbers.

Tomcitos. — Sow seeds for raising plants to fruit
out of doors. I do not recommend sowing earlier
than this date, as such early plants usually become
"leggy" and starved before danger from frost is
past. Select an early variety, preferring one that
produces smooth-skinned fruits. A good selection
of Ham Green is suitable. In very late districts it
may not be worth while attempting to grow
Tomatos in the open unless for the purpose ol
making ketchup of the green fruits, for which they
are quite suitable. Sow the seeds in heat, and pot
the young plants on in the usual way, finally
hardening them off in frames in readiness to plant
out by the end of May or early in June. 1

Carrots. — The main crop of these may be sown
as soon as the state of the soil will permit. A
deep, light soil is best, but good crops can be
secured from most soils if the cultivation is modified
to suit the particular circumstances. It will be
quite useless to expect fine root crops of any kind
on very heavy or stony land unless it be thoroughly
loosened to its greatest depth by trenching, after-
w-ards making holes and filling these with finely
sifted soil in which to sow the seed. I have seen
heavy crops of roots of the finest description ob-
tetined from such soils after this treatment. On
more suitable soils the seeds should be sown in
lines drawn at 12 inches apart. Before filling in
the lines a sowing of wood ashes or soot should be
made. New Red Intermediate is a standard selec-
tion of that type, but a stump-rooted variety should
also be sown as part of the main crop. Earh'
Nantes and Early Gem should be sown at inter-; als
of a fortnight throughout the season to provide
the kitchen with young tender roots regularly. Ir.
order to have them in the best condition, these
should be pulled when they have only just atlainec
their full size.

152

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[March 10, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters fcr Publication, as u-cll as specimens and plants
/(>} naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the -.veek as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. 1/ desired, the signature ivill not be
Ptinled, but kept as a guaratiiec of good faith.

5pecial Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- r/ic Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or draii.'ings. suitable for reprodtiction, oj
gardens, or of remarkable plants, Jlowers, trees^ &c. ; but he
cafinot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers. —Correspondents sending ncxvspapcrs should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents 'iC/ill greatly oblige bysendingto
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of Iwrliculturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

©

SATURDAY, Mar. lo Dutch Card. Soc. mejt.

(Ann. meet. Unit. Hort. Ben. &
MONDAY, Mar. i; \ Prov. Soc, 8 p.m., at the Roy.

i Hort. Hall, Westminster.
THURSD.AY, Mar. 15 Linnean Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 12-2°.

Actual Temperatures:—

LoKDO}i.— Wednesday, March 7 (6 p.m.): Max. 66';Min.
48°.
Gardeners' Chronicle OSBce, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, l^ondon.— Thursday , March 8 (10
A.M.): Bar., 30; Temp., 51"; H'lYi/Ziir— Drizzly
rain.
Proviuces.— Wednesday, March 7 (6 p.m.) : Mas. 67°
England S.E. ; Min. 47° Liverpool.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Herbaceous plants, Roses, Begonias, &c., at Protheroe
& Morris' Rooms, at 12.

WEDNESD.\Y—

Japanese Lilies, Carnations, Begonias, 3.000 Roses, Orna-
mental and Decorative plants, at Protheroe & Morris'
Rooms, at 12.

Nursery Stock at Elvaston Nurseries, Borrowash, near
Derby, by order of Messrs. W. Barron & Son, by
Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

FRIDAY —

Gloxinias, Greenhouse plants. Ferns, &c., at Protheroe
& Morris' Rooms, at 12.

Imported and Eestablished Orchids at Protheroe &
Morris' Rooms, at 12.30.

The precociously fine weather on
Events of 'fuesday last ensured a remark-

Week.

ably pretty and interesting- dis-
play in the New Hall of the
Royal Horticultural Society. With the
customary propensity to grumbling', said
to be a British characteristic, though
we think we have observed it else-
where, people were found complaining'
of the heat and of the overpowering
fragrance of the Hyacinths and other spring
flowers. For the details of the show we
must refer to another column, wherein it will
be seen that ample compensation in the way
of beauty and interest was afforded for the
trifling inconvenience complained of. The
three o'clock lecture was on the well-worn
subject of the nomenclature of garden plants,
but we do not gather that any further light
was thrown on the subject or any practicable
proposal suggested for remedying the errors
and anomalies which have the all-potent
sanction of custom. Certain plants. will, in
gardens, be called Lilies or Laurels in future,
as they have been in the past, altho'agh, for
the most part, the names are absolutciy inac-
curate, and, like the popular "geraniums,"
art " terminological ine.xactitudes."

The great event of the day, however, was
the complimentary dinner to Mr. William

Marshall at the Hotel Windsor, and which
was not in the official programme. Ic was
not the less important on that account. The
committees had fairly earned their dinner,
and they enjoyed it the more because it was
made the means of paying a thoroughly
rherited compliment on their part to Mr.
William Marshall, who has acted as Chair-
man to the Floral Committee for twenty
years. During that period he has won the
esteem of his colleagues for his disinterested
impartiality, his wide knowledge, his
geniality, and his firmness where occasion
demands. Mr. Harry Veitch, who occupied
the chair at the dinner, had an easy task
before him, for his experience of the Royal
Horticultural Society and of the work which
Mr. Marshall has accomplished for horticul-
ture generally is necessarily intimate. Several
of the speakers indulged in reminiscences of
the " then and now " order. Mr. Marshall
himself was proud to recall the fact that he
was a disciple of Wilson Saunders, a
scientific horticulturist venerated in his day
but known only by name to the present
generation. No less justly proud was he to
remind his auditory that he it was who had
the satisfaction of being the first to flower
Odontoglossum .Mexandrse, or, as it is now
called, O. crispuni.

The Committee had also availed them-
selves of the opportunity of presenting Mr.
Marshall with his portrait, which was ex-
hibited in the course of the day in the Floral
Committee Room at the Hall, and was gen-
erally approved.

Amongst other news of the week we may
mention that the Veitch Memorial Trustees
have awarded medals to Baron Sir Henry
Schroeder in grateful recognition of his in-
valuable services in the erection of the Horti-
cultural Hall, and to Sir Thomas Hanbuiy
for his munificence in bestowing on the
Society the beautiful garden at Wisley,
which is destined to more than replace the
time-honoured establishment at Chiswick.

Another medal was unanimously awarded
to Mr. E. H. Wilson in commemoration of
his remarkable services to horticulture and
botany whilst in the service of Messrs. James
Veitch and Sons. The details of Mr. Wilson's
journeyings in China are in course of publi-
cation in these columns, as well as descrip-
tions of numerous plants introduced by him.
The grand Meconopsis integrifoiia and the
remarkable series of Primulas are by no
means the only results of the adventurous
journeyings of Mr. Wilson and of his intelli-
gent zeal as a collector. The Trustees have
also made a most acceptable g-rant of £25 in
aid of the funds of the Lindlev Librarv.

Our Supplementary Illustration repre-
sents an example of the Wych Elm growing on a site
at about 100 yards distance from the River Dart at
Sharphara House, in Devon, the residence of Miss
DuRANT. It will be seen on reference to the picture
that the tree possesses a remarkable spread of
branches, and when we state that these cover an
area of over J-acre, some idea of the extr:.ordinary
size of the tree may be gained. The height,
although not exceptional, is 80 feet, but the
longest branch measures the great length of
104 feet. The girth, at a distance of 6 feet from
the ground, is 18 feet, and thereabouts spring
four of the largest branches. These branches and
the other smaller ones are covered by dense
patches of ferns on their upper surfaces. The
tree was planted over 200 years ago, and is still in
good vigour. For the opportunity of illustratmg

this remarkable tree we are indebted to our corre-
spondent Mr. John Maeers, The Gardens,
Sharpham, near Totnes.

Small Holdings. — The Departmental Com-
mittee appointed by the President of the Board
of Agriculture and Fisheries to enquire into tha
subject of Small Holdings, held a sitting on the
'28th ult. Evidence was given by Mr. W.
Mackenzie, Secretary of the Crofters Commis-
sion, and Mr. Isaac Con'nell, Secretary of Ihs
Scottish Chamber of Agriculture.

Horticultural Exhibitions at Birming-
ham.— At a meeting held in the Botanic Gardens, ,
Edgbaston, Birmingham, on the ist inst., Neville
Chamberlain, Esq.. in the chair, the following
Resolution proposed by Mr. John Pope, King's
Norton, and seconded by Mr. T. G. Baker,
Wolverhampton, was carried unanimously : " That
this meeting of practical horticulturists cordially
approves of the proposal of the Birmingham
Botanical and Horticultural Society to hold Flower
Shows in the months of June and July, and pledges
itself to further the scheme in every respect."
Subsequently a committee was formed to make
the necessary arrangements, and June 13 and
July 4 were selected as the most suitable dates
for the shows.

Linnean Society. — The next ev;ning meeting
will be held on Thursday, Mar^h 15, 1906, at
8 p.m., when there will be a discussion on the
" Origin of Gymnosperms," to be opened by Prof.
F. W. Oliver, F.R.S., F.L.S. &c.

The Botanical Magazine. — The plants
figured by Miss Smith and described in the March
number are the following: —

.Vrachnanthe annamensis, Rolfc, in Gardeners'
Chromcle (1905), i., p. 391 ; tab. 8,062. — Introduced
to the nurseries of Messrs. Sander & Sons from
Annam and flowered at Glasnevin in June, 1905.
The five segments of each flower measure nearly
3 inches in length, are narrow with recurved
edges, and all except the dorsal sepal, which is
erect, are curved downwards. The colour is
yellow thickly barred with red. The lip is much
shorter, mobile, and three-lobed, and of complex
structure, details of which are given in the text by
Mr. Rolfe.

Erica terminalis, Siilishury: tab. 8,063. — This
is the E. stricta of Donn, and has various other
synonyms. It has small linear leaves in groups
of four, and flowers in heads towards the ends of
the branches. Each flower is about a quarter of
an inch long, deflexed, urn-shaped, of rosy pink
colour. It is a native of Corsica and Southern
Italy, and has been in cultivation at Kew as a
hardy species for many years. It is now described
by Mr. Skan.

Lonicera tragophylla, Heiiisley; tab. 8,064. —
Discovered by Dr. Henry, introduced from Hupeh,
China, to Messrs. Veitch's nurseries by Wilson,
and described and figured in these columns 1904,
li., p. 151.

Polygala apopetala, T. S. Brandegce ; tab.
8,065. — A very remarkable species, acquiring the
dimensions of a small tree, with shortly-stalked
lanceolate leaves and flowers that might well be
taken as pea-shaped. They are of a rosy lilac
colour and arranged in long racemes at the ends
of the branches. It was first found in Lower
California by Mr. Brandegee. The specimen
figured came from the garden of Sir Thomas
Hanbury at La Mortola, Ventimiglia, and is de-
scribed by Mr. T. A. Sprague.

Ceropegia fusca, C. Bolle; tab. 8, 066. — The
stems and branches of this curious Asclepiad are
ascending (not climbing), succulent, and cylin-
drical, with narrow, lanceolate leaves. The
flowers are in clusters from the sides of the
branches, each rather more than an inch long,
ascending, dull reddish-brown in colour, the tube
cylindric, slightly dilated at the base, the limb

March 10, 1908.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

153

dividing into five ovate acuminate segments wliose
lung tips are incurved and united at their extre-
mities. It is a native of Grand Canary, and was
introduced to Kew by the agency of Mr. Ledger.
A detailed description is furnished by Mr, N. E.
Brow-N.

Royal Horticultural Society. — Intending
candidates for the Society's annual examination
in the principles and practice of horticulture
to be held on March 28 are requested to send in
as soon as possible their entry forms, with
the name of their proposed supervisor, to the
secretary, from whom the syllabus, with entry
form attached, may be obtained. Entries cannct
be accepted after March 19. If any candidate
desires to sit in London for this examination,
he must say so on his entry form, and the Society
will then make arrangements for him to attend at
their hall in Vincent Square, Westminster. A
scholarship of £25 a year for two years is offered
by the Worshipful Company of Gardeners. The
Society will hold an examination for school
teachers in Cottage and Allotment Gardening on
Wednesda}', April 11. This examination is in-
tended for, and will be confined to, elementary
and technical school teachers. Teachers and
assistants desiring to sit for the examination
should apply at once for a copy of the syllabus
to the secretary, R.H.S., Vincent Square, West-
minster, S.W.

Worthy OF Imitation. — Very recently Mr. and
Mrs. F. C. Stoop, of West Hall, Byfleet, Surrey,
kindly intimated to their garden and estate staft,
througli Mr. G. Carpenter, the head gardener,
their intention to grant to all their employees a
Saturday half-holiday. This kind consideration
took effect on March 3 at i p.m. The em-
ployees have since made a presentation to Mr.
and Mrs. Stoop as an expression of their thanks.

Flowers in Season. — From Messrs. C.
Brooks & Co., The Firs, Worting, Basingstoke, we
have received a number of " pips " of " Stellate,"
or star Primulas. White, pink, blue, crimson,
salmon and other colours are included, and,
judging by the flowers sent, the strain appears to
be a desirable one. Messrs. Ed. Webb & Sons,
Stourbridge, Staffs, send us a box containing
samples of their strain of Cinerarias. The deep
sheen of the "blues," "maroons," "crimsons"
and other colours remind one of rich velvet. The
size of petals, substance and form are alike good
in those sent, but we can have no manner of
judging the habit, floriferousness of the plants. Sec,
from single.," oips " only.

Menoelism. — When adverting recently to the
literature of this subject we omitted to mention
a short treatise by Mr. R. C. Punnett, published
by Messrs. M.\cmillan & Co. We can now com-
mend it to the notice of those of our readers who
desire to familiarise themselves with a somewhat
intricate subject. " Eating peas " would have been
better designated as edible peas, whilst " the albu-
men of the cotyledons " is a still more unfortunate
expression, as it tends to create in the minds of
botanists an impression of the value of the book
which would be essentially unmerited. It is in
reality an excellent introduction to the study of
heredity.

Windsor Chrysanthemum Society. — The

King has presented the Windsor Chrysanthemum
Society, of which His Majesty is patron, with a
silver challenge cup of the value of lo guineas,
for competition by growers in the society's district.

Climbing Plants. — Mr. John Murray has
published a popular edition of Charles Darwin's
work on ' ' The Movements and Habits of Climbing
Plants." The book when it first appeared in 1865
was a veritable revelation to all but professed
botanists, and even furnished them with many
additional illustrations and much valuable sug-
Kestion. To students and those desirous of

prosecuting still- further- research into -this -fasci-
nating subject the present edition will be in-
valuable.

Forcing Cherries and Strawberries by
MEANS OF Ether. — .Vccording to M. Bultel,
in the Revue Horticole, the flowering of Cherries
may be advanced by a period of three weeks by
means of etherisation, whilst the ripening of the
fruit is advanced by 15 days. Strawberries pro-
perly treated also produce their fruits much earlier,
but flower more regularly and abundantly. When
is that experiment station at Wisley to be set in
action to test such statements as these ?

will read a Paper, entitled " The Surveyor and Fire
Insurance." All inquiries with reference to the
Junior meetings should be addressed to Mr,
Sydney A. Smith, 22, Chancery Lane, W.C.
Percival Chrrey, Hon. Secretary ; Alexander
Goddard, Secretary.

Publications Received. — Annual Report on tlie
Taj and other Government Gardens at Agra, 1904-5 :
By A. E. P. Griessen, Esq., Superintendent. The
most notable and satisfactory feature of the year's ad-
ministration has been the large increase in receipts
from sales of the produce of the Gardens and Nur-
series.— The Queensland Agricultural Journal ; Janu-
ary. Con.*ains the usual articles on crops and stock.

Fig. 61. — YUCCA nitida now flowering at kew.
Scape 7 feet in height ; flowers greenish yellow (see text on page 154).

Royal Botanic Society. — We are informed
that Her Royal Highness Princess Alexander
OF Teck has consented to open the Horticul-
tural Exhibition, to take place in the gardens
of this Society at Regent's Park on Wednesdaj',
June T3.

The Surveyors Institution. — The next
ordinary general meeting will be held in the
Lecture Hall of the Institution on Monday,
March 12, at 8 p.m., when a paper, entitled "The
Means of Locomotion and Transport in London,"
will be read by Mr. William Woodward (Fellow).
The next Junior meeting will be held on Monday,
March 19, at 7 p.m., when Mr. R. G. G. Reed

Certain beautiful and useful native weeds are recom-
mended to the notice of Queensland readers. — Agri-
cultural Bulletin of the Straits aJid Federated Malay
States; November. Edited by H. N. Ridley. Con-
tents : Bark fungus on Para Rubber, by the Editor ;
Experimental Tapping, &c. — Jamaica Bulletin of the
Department of Agriculture ; January. Edited by
William Fawcett, B.Sc. Contents: Notes on Econo-
mic Plants, Yams, Imported and Native Corn, &c. —
Agricultural Journal of the Cape of Good Hope ; Feb-
ruary. Leading features : Poisoning of Horses by
Ornithogalum thyrsoides. Extra-tropical Forestry
(continued), by D. E. Hutchins, cS:c. — Thirty-first
Annual Report of the Ontario Agricultural College and
Experimental Farm, 1905. The year has been one of
steady progress, experiments out of doors and investi-
gations in the Icigratories having been largely and

154

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 1906.

successfully carried on. — Thii-ty-sixth Annual Report
of the Entomological Society of Ontario. 1905. (Pub-
lished by the Ontario Department of Agriculture).
Contains many useful, illustrated papers on injurious
.ind other insects, and details many experiments made
in various districts. — Working Plan, 190j-191!), of the
Castle Hill Woodlands, North Devon. By W. R. Fisher,
M. A. A report on the Castle Hill Estate, the pro;^
pertyofthe Right Hon. Earl Fortescue, mentioning
its present condition and its proposed future. —
" Haven." A horticultural paper published at Aarhuz
(Denmark) and including an account and illustration
of the Vilmorin Memorial. — The Kcw Bulletin. Ap-
pendix iv., 1905, of the Kna Bulletin of Miscellaneous
Information, contains a list of the members of the
staffs of the several Botanical Departments at home
and in India and the Colonies. We need hardly com-
ment upon the value of this pamphlet for purposes of
reference. — Illustrations of Chrysanthemums. Messrs.
W. Wells & Co., Merstham, Surrey, send us a sheet
containing illustrations of new Chrysanthemums. The
pictures are two-thirds natural size, and represent
some good novelties for 1906.

NEW AND NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

YUCCA NITIDA (Wright, M.S.).
This is a new species of Yucca in the way of
Y. Whipplei, from which it differs mainly in
having longer, wider, and more rigid leaves, tlae
flower spike and flowers being identical with those
of Y. Wliipplei as represented in the Botanical
Magazine, t. 7,662, see also fig. 62. It is possible
that the last-named species as known to American
botanists includes forms as varied in leaf charac-
ters as these two. Dr. Trelease, in his mono-
graph of the Yuccas published in the Thirteenth
Annual Report of the Missouri Botanical Garden
(1902), says ; — " Y. Wliipplei is the name proposed
by Dr. Torrey, and still commonly employed, for
a plant which, when in bloom, forms one of the
most striking and beautiful features of the coast-

range vegetation of Southern California. From
all other Yuccas it differs in the slender style
rising abruptly from the top of the ovary and
capitately enlarged into a papillate stigma, and in
possessing somewhat glutinous pollen, as well as
in certain capsular characters which led Dr.
Engelmann to give it the sectional name Hespero-
yucca, which both Dr. Baker and the writer have
proposed to employ as a generic name. Though
the mountain and valley forms vary greatly in
amplitude of panicle, &c., only one species of
Hesperoyucca appears capable of characterisation,
and this has long been in cultivfation in European
gardens, partly under the name of Yucca Whipplei
and partly under the name of Y. californica, which
has further been applied to very diverse things."

There can be no doubt that the plant at Kew is
either one of those diverse forms of Y. Whipplei
or a new species allied to it. At the same time it
is certainly not the plant known in European gar-

FlG. 6i. — INFLORESCENXE .\ND FLOR.\L DET.ULS OF YUCC.\ WHIPPLEI.

March 10, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

155

dens as Y. Whipplei, of which there is a figure
and description by Mr. Baker in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, August 1876, p. 196, from a plant flowered
in the collection of the late Mr. Peacock, of Hammer-
smith. {Seefig.62.) This has linear leaves 18 to 20
inches long, the lower ones measuring hall an inch
wide at the base, glaucous green and triquitrous at
the back ; whereas the plant at Kew has rigid
ensiforni leaves 3 feet long, slightly sinuous, flat,
save a slight keel below, 2 inches witle at the
clasping base, narrowing gradually to an acute
horny brown tip, the margin barely rough to the
touch. The scape is 7 feet in height, the upper
half clothed with flowers and branches forming a
compact pyramidal head a foot in diameter at the
base. The flowers are fragrant, 3 inches across,
pale greenish-yellow, appearing white a short dis-
tance off, with a bright purple tip to each of the
segments. Stamens and ovary pure white, the
latter crowned with a bright crystalline green
stigma. This is one of the most beautiful Yuccas,
and from its behaviour under cultivation at Kew
it is much more easy to manage than Y. Whipplei,
of which I have never seen a healthy e.\ample at
Kew, although I have seen fine plants of it in
gardens on the Riviera. Y. nitida was purchased
from Messrs. F. Sander & Sons two years ago.
W. W.

HOME GORRESPONDENGF.

(The Editor docs not hold himself responsible for the
cpiiiions expressed iy his correspondents.)

Salad Potatos. — Perhaps in the future our
countrymen will take more kmdly to the humble
Potato as an ingredient in mi.xed salads, or alone
as do the French and Germans. The Potato
as a salad goes well with boiled Beetroot,
Celeriac, and raw Onions, if oil, vinegar, coarsu
pepper, and salt be added according to taste.
The varieties white and purple Fir Cone were
at one time occasionally grown in this countrj',
but more as curiosities than for consumption,
and now are but rarely found in gardens, and
for any other use than in salads they can
scarcely be recommended. The tubers will
attain to a length of 6 inches with a lateral dia-
meter of IJ inches ; and the texture of the flesh
being waxy, they may be sliced like a Cucum-
ber, ihe shape of the slices being retained, even
when vigorously stirred about with the other in-
gredients in the salad bowl. /•'. .1/.

Rhododendrons. — Rhododendron barbatum
is one of the most beautiful subjects now in flower
in the open in these gardens. Blood-red in colour,
the influresceiices are of striking and handsome
appearance, especially when the sun shines on
the flowers. During severe frost, a little tiffany
is arranged over the fop of the plant and sup-
ported by poles. This method of erection
answers well. They are planted in a mixture of
peat, leaf soil, and the natural loam, which is
clayev, and this mixture suits them. A mulch-
ing of manure is placed over the roots in
summer. R. caucasicum Nobleanum has been
in llower for the past two months, the fine red
colour of the flowers and the general features of
the plants making the American Garden a source
of pleasure. It is planted in the same compost
as R. barbatum. R. praecox, a hybrid between
R. ciliatum and R. dauricum, is quite hardy,
and has been flowering for some weeks past in
sheltered spots in these gardens. It makes a
charming bush about 3 to 4 feet in height and
flowers with great freedom. The two parents
were recently in flower here. R. ciliatum does
well when gently forced in heat, and the flowers
are white. It is a suitable plant for both the
conservatory and the drawing-room. R. argen-
teum grande is finely in flower in the
Rhododendron house at South Lodge, the
residence of F. D. Godman, Esq. The plant
measures 14 feet by 14 feet. The trusses of
bloom are magnificent in appearance (see
double-page supplementary illustration in our
issue for June 10, 1882). This variety is not
hardy, excepting, 1 believe, in a few very shel-
tered spots in Cornwall. At night time by arti-
ficial light the spots on the petals shine like
small nuggets of gold. The foliage is particu-
larly handsome, more especiall)' the under side

of the leaves, which is covered with a silvery
down. R. Fosterianum is now a grand feature
in the conservatory. It should be grown outside
all through the summer months and housed
during the winter months until slightly forced in
heat. The beautiful white flowers are delic'iusly
fragrant, and each possesses a pretty fimbriated
edging. In point of beauty it is far superior to
Lady Alice Fitzwilliam, which, with its variety
fragrantissimum, is now opening its flower
buds. The flowers are white, and are sweet
scented. By slight forcing a succession of
trusses can be obtained for a long period. W .
A. Cooky Leonardslce Gardens, Horsham. [An
excellent truss of R. argenteum grande and
another of R. barbatum accompanied these notes.
—Ed.]

MONTBRETIAS. — Referring to the remarks by
Mr. G. Buckley on p. 124, I think the better plan
is that generally adopted, namely, that of lilting
and dividing them as soon after the flowering
season in the autumn as possible. There is then
Ijss fear of damaging the young growths which
spring from the base of the old bulbs than if
left till spring. The young growths are ex-
tremely brittle. G. F. Hallett, EastonNcston Gardens,
Toivecster.

Potatos at Inveresk. — Inveresk is six or
seven miles east of Edinburgh, and within a few-
hundred yards of the railway station are the stores
of Messrs. Scarlett, Visiting them the other day
I saw 14,000 boxes of seed Potatos. There were
50 tons of Southern Queen in boxes, also 10 tons of
Dalmeny Radium, 10 tons of Diamond, and 15 tons
of Midlothian Early, the new first early. In the
centre of the building a squad of men and women
were dressing a 100 ton lot of Warrior. Many
early sorts were cleared out entirely. Three hun-
dred tons of Epicure or British Premier had been
sold, and 200 tonsof Sir John Llewelyn. I saw 10
tons of the latter, which were kept for planting.
They were all large tubers, and Mr. Scarlett said
they would be planted whole. The more valu-
able varieties are boxed in the field at raisin.t;
time and taken direct to the store. Planting wil I
begin as soon as the land is in good condition.
Asked what was going to be the greatest m£iin crop
variety of the future, Mr. Scarlett said he did not
yet know. The Factor certainly stood at the top
at present, but it was impossible to obtain sufficient
tubers of proper seed size. Table Talk w ould eclipse
The Factor. The huge building is well built of
brick and the roof is supported by brick pillars.
No artificial heat is used. No damage has ever
been done by frost. This is partly accounted for
by everything being dry. In the event of severe
frost sacks, mats, and sheets are in readiness to
cover up the stacks of boxes. Traveller.

Horticultural Examinations. — The

remarks by W. Watson, in a recent issue,
concerning the R.H.S. examinations will, I feel
sure, be endorsed by many who read them. I
for one maintain that the examinations are not
so satisfactory as they might be. In nine cases
out of ten the practical man is beaten by the
theoretical student in paper' work. I am confi-
dent a man's abilities cannot be justly gauged
from what he may put on paper. The student
at college is trained mainly so that he or she
may succeed in examinations, and so reflect
credit on their teachers and themselves. Such
credit is certainly not misplaced ; but what
a sorry figure such a person would look if
placed in a position where he was made respon-
sible for the maintenance of a constant supply
of fruit, flowers, and vegetables for a large
private establishment or for market purposes.
The class of gardener I admire is one with an
aptitude for his work and intelligence to make
the best use of his knowledge. The holding of
certificates does not show that the holder has
these very necessary qualifications. The man
who is interested in his profession will natur-
ally be observant and study what applies to his
work. What man can expect to get on without?
I sat at the last examination held by the R.H.S.
for gardening dealing with work in public parks,
etc. I considered the questions were excellent.
The practice of verbally questioning the candi-
dates will, I hope, in the future be the prin-
cipal form of examination. An examiner can
form a much better idea of the amount of the
intelligence and the knowledge a candidate has
of his work by that means than by the inspec-
tion of any answers on paper. The time allowed
is not sufficient, and I believe this was the
general opinion. B. Alter sea.

London County Council Gardeners

An examination held by the Royal Horticultural
Society can be of little use in ascertaining the
qualifications of gardeners employed by the Lon-
don County Council. Evidence of previous horti-
cultural training has to be forthcoming before a
gardener is employed in the parks in a temporary-
capacity, then he has to work for three months as
a probationer, and obtain the approval of the park
superintendent by the satisfactory performance of
his duties. It is utterly unreasonable that more
than this should be expected, but, in addition, a
medical examination has to be passed before a
gardener is placed on the permanent staff. Now
a further examination is proposed. According to
the requirements of the London County Council
the social status of the gardener has fallen to ;i
level with the resources of his pocket. No other
conclusion is admissible when practical gardeners,
and scientific botanists withal, are expected to
pick up dirty paper and orange-peel, and generally
act as scavengers in the parks, for 27s, or even,
30S, per week. It would, however, be interesting
to see how the men employed by the Board of
Works as labourers, and now classed as gardeners,
would figure in such an examination. And yet in
many instances a park superintendent will say
these are just the men he wants. Straight Tip.

Proposed Federation of Gardeners-
Societies. — With the e.xception of one dis-
sentient review of my proposals, the replies have
been very gratifying. The following suggestions
will perhaps lead us nearer to our goal : — (i) Will
all Secretaries of Gardeners' Mutual Improvement
Societies kindly post me the name of the Society
they represent, with their own address, and add a
few supplementary remarks as to their members
and their ideas of the proposed federation outlined
in my letter in the Gardeners' CAioHicfe for February
17, (2) The fixing of a suitable date and place
when representatives can attend and discuss the
matter, and appoint a provisional committee to
draw up a scheme, which could afterwards be
submitted to another meeting at a later date for
confirmation. Harry Boshier, 62, High Street,
Croydon.

The Weather in Co. Kildare.— It may

interest some readers to hear of the very severe
F'ebruary that we have experienced in this cold,
ungenial locality. There was frost on twenty-
five nights, and as a rule from 9° to 13" of frost,
with a total for the month of 225°. This is by far
the most severe F'ebruary experienced here since
1895, when the total for the month was 333°, and
on the coldest night, February 7th, there was 30° of
frost, F.B.S., Straffan Station, Co. Kildare.

The United Horticultural Benefit and
Provident Society. — The special general
meeting which will precede the ordinary general
meeting on Monday next, the 12th inst., will be of
more than usual interest, and it is hoped that
country members will attend if possible The
object of the special meeting being to confirm the
amended rules as compiled by the committee, it
would be a considerable gain to them to feel that
members generally took sufficient interest in the
society to come forward and support a work which
has given them a considerable amount of trouble,
and though the alterations are not likely to in any
Avay affect the general working of the society, there
are a few important points which all members
should consider. The special general meeting is
called for 5 p.m. The ordinary annual general
meeting takes place at 8 p.m. A.H.

The Late George Norman. — I have no
intimate knowledge of his early career further
than he was for some time at Linton Park, Maid-
stone, with, I believe, "Mr. Ballautyne " as his
foreman, and I think I shall be right in saying
that " Mr. Groom " was head at that time there.
His next move was to Bedford, as gardener to
— Maguire, Esq., M.P., whence he went to Hat-
field in May, 1876, where he succeeded Mr. Ed.
Bennett, who eventually established a name as a
grower of Grapes for market at Potter's Bar and
elsewhere. At the time of Mr. Norman's appoint-
ment much had been done, and much more re-
mained to be done, in the thorough competition
of the then comparatively new garden. On
my last visit to Hatfield he called my atten-
tion to the fact that on his taking charge the
fruit trees, both Apples and Pears, were so
severely trained (goblet fashion) that little, as well
as inferior, fruit was the result. He saw this was
a wrong practice, and allowed the trees greater
freedom, with the result that finer or more pro-
lific trees than those now to be seen there

15G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 1908.

•could not be imagined. The wall trees, too, were
grandly trained, and in first-class fruiting condi-
tion. Mr. Norman had few equals in the culture
of indoor fruit, Grapes, Peaches, Figs, Straw-
berries. The writer was once told that Mr.
Norman had never been without Grapes '■ old or
new," for 20 years. He was a great believer in
copious supplies of water, both for Vines and
Peaches. In the culture of Strawberries he was
unexcelled, and annually grew between 7,000 and
8,000 plants in pots, and in the early eighties he used
annually to take the ist prize at Kensington with
the then standard varieties. President, Sir J. Paxton,
and Sir C. Napier. For picking at this period
Black Prince was grown largely. The call upon
the resources of Hatfield for decorative plants and
flowers in the great receptions held by the late
Marquis of Salisbury during his career as Prime
Minister was very great. When one considers
the work and anxiety attendant upon the carrying
out of these and many other duties it is not to be
wondered at that the strain proved too much
for even such a fine physique as Mr. Norman pos-
sessed, and after a severe illness he had to recruit
his health in the south of France. Turning again to
plants, all classes, stove and greenhouse, were well
represented. At one time he had at least 200
plants of Adiantum Farleyense in robust growth,
the finest I ever saw. Orchids too were well
grown, and of later years Carnations claimed his
attention. He confined the varieties to two or
three, but grew them by the thousand. All round
the master-hand was apparent. The flower gar-
dens were kept up well, the east with Roses, the
south with Fuchsias, Cannas, Heliotrope, Ricinus,
&c., and the west garden with ordinary bed-
ding plants, the whole numbering 30,000 plants.
Mr. Norman was a man of untiring energy,
full of tact and resource, a strict disciplinarian, yet
tender-hearted and sympathetic in time of need.
As a member of the Fruit Committee he was
respected and beloved by all his colleagues, and it
was owing to his abilitythat the V.M.H. was
conferred upon him. Geo. Dyhe, The Gardens,
Garston Manor, Watford.

The deeply lamented death of this eminent and

truly genial gardener creates a great void in the
fruit committee of the Royal Horticultural Society.
He was one of the oldest members, one of the most
esteemed, and a very regular attendant. Few,
if any, of his colleagues, although most of
them had observed in him some evidence of
occasionally highly strung nervousness, realised
that his end was so near. Of his merits as a
servant it is for others to speak, but many of
his fellows can testify to his great ability as a
gardener, and of his devotion lo and love for his
profession. Those of us who were his colleagues
on the Gardeners' Dinner Committee of 1903 had
opportunities to know and appreciate him beyond
those possessed by others. How thoroughly he en-
joyed the work the arrangements for that dinner im-
posed upon him ! He entered into it all with almost
boyish interest. It is a strange coincidence that the
first one taken from our number, and also an old
and esteemed member of the Fruit Committee,
James Smith, should, like George Norman, have
been a faithful servant and head gardener to
an ex-Prime Minister. May many years elapse
'ere we shall have to mourn a farther break.
That dinner committee became more than a mere
combination of British gardeners. It was literally
a brotherhood, knit together by the warmest ties
of friendship and fellow-feeling. Whether at
Hatfield, or on the fruit committee, or as a
V.M.H., may any successor be as worthy our
esteem as was our old friend George Norman.
A. D.

Fumigation with Hydrocyanic Acid

Gas. — Notwithstanding .tI. D.'$ criticism of Mr.
Dobson's article on the above subject, it is a well-
known fact amongst scientists and horticulturists
that hydrocyanic gas is both cheaper and more
effectual for the destruction of insect life than any
known insecticide, and if it is used in the proper
quantities with the temperature of the house low
and the foliage of the plants dry it is perfectly
harmless to the plants. I have had some experi-
ence in the use of this gas, and consider there
is as much difference between it and ordinary
insecticides for the extermination of mealy bug.
ants, scale. &c., as there is between the old-
fashioned aphis brush and nicotine vaporisers ;
but, unfortunately, the gas is so deadly to human
beings that it has not been generally used. To
overcome this difficulty I have invented a machine
which enables the operator to ('rop the cyanide

into the acid whilst he is outside the house and
after *he door is locked, thus preventing any risk
to those using it. I shall feel pleasure in forward-
ing the Editor diagrams of the same after a week or
two if he will insert them in the Gardeners' Chronicle.
The machine may be had for a few shillings.
F. C. Edwards, Nurseryman, Leeds. [We shall be
pleased to see the drawings. Ed.]

" If insect life in a plant house be destroyed,

what matter even if a few human lives be taken
also" (see A.D. on p. 140). At last the great
problem of solving the unemployed question
seems likely to be solved — the great philanthropist
who advises cyaniding the surplus gardeners must
receive some public recognition. A. D. is not to be
commended, however, in the use of such sarcasm.
I should be sorry to lose any of my brother gar-
deners by fumigation, but I wish this philan-
thropic gentleman A. D. would give cyaniding
a trial. His idea of the present day gardener is
a poor one ; possibly cyaniding may interfere
with or supersede some existing interest, but the
day for the rag and paper is gone. W. H. Clarke,
Aston Rowant, O.xon.

A. D. says on p. 107 : — "One is tempted to

ask the question whether the game is worth the
candle on account of its grave dangers to bo'h
human and plant life." Is this the only poisonous
insecticide in use amongst gardeners to-day ?
What about the arsenical and nicotine compounds
• — are they not dangerous to human life, though to
a less degree ? I fully agree with .4 . D. in respect
to the danger by cyaniding to human life, and I
fully warned others of the danger and the neces-
sity for taking proper precautions, and if this is
done — which I think it will be by most gardeners,
whom I credit with being a broad-minded and
level-headed class of men — there need be ver.'
little fear of fatal results. A.D. infers that no
one of good sense would be disposed to dabble
with such a dangerous article. It is very comfort-
ing to me to learn from letters received and articles
which ha\-e appeared in the Gardeners' Chronicle,
that there are others who share this compliment
with us, but may I claim the credit of having
"sufficient good sense " to get rid of the bug and
scale, and turn the labour to better account ? .-J .
D. says it was my misfortune having the bug,
I knew it to my sorrow ; it was here belore I came,
but in won't be here when I go away. In
conjunction with two first-class foremen, I had
striven %igorously from the first to free our-
selves of the pests, but all to no purpose. We
could check it, but nothing more, and where bug is
plentiful and labour scarce one is tempted to resort
to drastic measures. As regards the danger to
plants, I fail to see that there is more danger in
this insecticide than in other "patent insecticides,"
for all are more or less dangerous to plant life if
they are not used with the necessary precautions,
and I am convinced (with all due appreciation of
other fumigants for general work) none of them
is so effectual in ridding plants of bug and scale.
The harm done to the plants here by cyaniding from
first to last is practically nothing, the most is a
very few leaves touched, and I gave my experience
in full in order that others might avoid even this
small amount of harm. I lost a number of plants
by the constant syringing, sponging, with other
insecticides. On looking up my notes taken in
past years, I note the entry, " men sponging, &c."
Alas, too often this was to all intents and purposes
waste labour, and very discouraging to all con-
cerned, because no headway was being made
with other work, and one must make some attempt
to cope with the ever increasing amount of work
at this time of the year. I am thankful to say, su
far this year no time has been wasted on sponging.
I am hoping henceforward to be included amongst
those gardeners who are enabled to keep their
house clean with patent insecticides ; further that
these gardens may be included- amongst those
where gardening is well done. I am afraid that
a great many gardens could not be so described
if the line of demarcation between good and bad
gardening is the presence or absence of bug and
scale. IV. II. Dobson, Staplcton Gardens, Pontc-
fract.

Grape Diamant Traube (see p. 138). — If
reference be matle to the issue of Gardeners'
Chronicle for August 26, 1905, p. 175, the officers of
the Royal Horticultural Society may find full
particulars of this Grape. I am glad that the
reputation of the R. H. S. for the cultivation of
choice varieties of Grapes will be maintained at
Wisley. If I can help I shall be glad to do so.
W. RoHpell, Harvey Lodge, Roupell Park, S.W.

SOCXSTIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

M.\RCH 6. — After an interval of three weeks
the Royal Horticultural Society's Committees
met on iuesday last in the Jriall, at Vincent
Square, Westminster. The display was more
extensive even than usual, and all the available
space for exhibits appeared to be pressed into
service.

The most imposing .group of Orchids was con-
tributed by W. A. iiiLNEY, Esq., who was
awarded a Gold Medal. The Orchid Committee
inspected many novelties and awarded threa
First Class Certificates, seven Awards of Merit,
and one Botanical Certificate, exclusive of thi
Diplomas given for Dendrobiums.

the Floral Committee recommended five
Awards of Merit to novelties which are men-
tioned below, and in respect to the very large
number of groups exhibited were seventeen
medals awarded, including one of gold to
Messrs. Cutbush & Sox.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee had little
to inspect, and their only award was that of a
Silver Banksian Medal.

At the general meeting of Fellows in the
afternoon il4 candidates were elected to the
-Society, and a paper on the '" Nomenclature of
Plants" was read by Mr. G. W. Bulman.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq. (chairman), and
Messrs. H. B. May, Geo. Nicholson, R. Wilson
Ker, J no. Green, L.J. Salter, J. H. Barr, T. \v .
Turner, Jno. Jennings, \V. Howe, H. J. Cut-
bush, \V. Bain, Chas. Jeffries, Chas. Dixon, R.
C. R. Nevill, V\ . Cuthbertson, H. J. Jones, Chas.
E. Pearson, Chas. E. Shea, E. H. Jenkins, \V. J.
James, |as. Walker, Jas. Douglas, C. T. Druery,
\V. G. Baker, C. R. Fielder, R. Hooper Pear-
son, G. Reuttte, R. W. Wallace, and jas. Hud-
son.

Some very good varieties of Hippeastrum
were shown by Lord Rothschild, and one,
named Pomona, a white flow-er, with bright rea-
coloured stripes, and a flower in which the
natural green colour had been quite eliminatoa,
was perlectly distinct and attractive. All the
plants were very strongly-grown specimens, and
the variety Pomona liad five flowers on the
spike. Lachenalia glaucina, from the same gar-
den, is a very old but little-known species, hav-
ing very pale blue, erect flowers produced on.
spikes which grow 14 or 15 inches in height.

Messrs. W. CuTiicsii & Son, Highgate, Lon-
don, N., set up a collection of forced flowering
plants that formed an outstanding feature of the
exhibition ; indeed, it was quite the largest group
that the Hall has so far accommodated, and oc-
cupied the major portion of the side of the
building opposite the entrance. Not alone by
reason of its size was the displsy noteworthy,
but boldness of grouping, excellencg; of material,
and taste in arrangement all conti.'buted to a
magnificent effect. The design was that of an
undulating bank, in which a central bay was
prominent, with other smaller bays at eiiher end.
The usual subjects were included — Axalecs,
Kibes, Wistarias, Spiraeas, Viburnums, Magno-
lias, showy species of Cerasus, Pyrus and
I'runus, Deutzia, and a host of other beautiful
flowering trees and shrubs. Especial reference
must be made- to the Magnolias, which were
shown in splendid form, and the examples c£
such beautiful species as M. Soulangeana, M..
Eenne, and M. .\lexandrina would be difficult
to surpass. In another part of the Hall Messrs
Cutbush arranged a temporised rockery, and
here again was seen an example of good skill
and eftective planting, many beautiful spring
flowers being thus presented in a natural man-
ner. (Gold .\Iedal.)

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond, Surrey, filled
the Concert platform with forced flowering
shrubs. A batch of white Lilac — Mad. Lemoine
— looked well in the centre, while other showy
plants, such as Azaleas, Laburnum, Deutzia,
Almonds, Cherries, Forsythia suspensa, etc.,
were arranged on either side. Some small
plants of Clematis formed a pleasing edging.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.) •

Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Hol-
loway, London, staged a mixed group of plants
and flowers. At the back were a number of
large plants of Rhododendrons — R. Cunning-
ham's White being very fine — Bamboos, Lilacs,
etc., and in the foreground a rock-garden with

March 10, 1908.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

157

suitable Alpine plants. Hippeastrums were also
included in the display.

Me.ssrs. Thos Cripps & Son, Tunbridge
Wells, Kent, displayed a group of ornamental
Maples, having many handsome forms of the
pahnatum and japonicum types. (Silver Gilt
iianksian Medal. I

Messrs. \\ . Paul & Son, Waltham Cross,
Herts., staged a very pretty group of flowering
Almonds and Peaches, the small trees being
literally covered with their showy flowers. (.Sil-
ver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. K. Veitch & Son, Exeter, showed an
CM iinple of Prunus Munie flcre plena. The
llouers are pale in colour and have but little
doubling. Erica carnea was also shown by
Messrs. Veitch.

Messrs. Sutton S: Sons, Reading, entirely
filled one of the extensive side tables with
Cinerarias of the ordinary florists' type. The
jihints were dwarf, but sturdy in habit, and they
carried neat, compact trusses of flowers of many
beautiful shades of colour, especially handsome
being some of the " blues " and "reds." (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent, also
e\hibited Cinerarias, but of the taller growing
" stellata " type. T he dense cymes ot small,
bright flowers possessed a wide range of colour-
ing, and gave evidence of careful selection. The
same firm also displayed trusses of Zonal Pelar-
goniums, Coleus Shirensis, and a new flaked
Carnation named Duchess of Marlborough, the
(jiound work being buff, pervaded and striped
ivith rosy red. (Saver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Road Nursery, Upper
Edmonton, had a group of decorative plants, in
which we noticed the sweet-scented Pelargonium
Clorinda, Boronia raegastigma, Clematises, and
a nice batch of Cinerarias in flower. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

From the gardens of A. de Rothschild, Esq.,
llalton, near Tring (gr. Mr. Sanders), was ex-
hibited a group of plants of Hippeastrums, the
variety being Crimson Prince, with self-coloured
flowers from which the natural green colour is
entirely eliminated. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
''oad, Chelsea, staged miscellaneous greenhouse
flowering plants — Streptcsolen Jamesoni, Coleus
Shirensis, Eupatorium petiolare. Camellia
reticulata, Rhodondron Veitchianum, etc. (Sil-
ver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, showed a collection of small Palms, all,
or almost all, of which w-ere of different species.

The exhibit of Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert,
Southgate, Middlesex, formed an innovation in
the matter of arrangement. The group con-
sisted of beds of Hyacinths, and was arranged
on the floor of the Hall. The beds were diamond
shaped, the intervening spaces being worked out
in Moss, while cocoa-nut fibre did duty for soil
in the beds. The trusses of flowers were well
developed, and the blending of the colours was
in good taste, one of the best combinations being
seen in a bed with a pink centre and an edging
of white. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Mr. John May, St. Margaret's, Twickenham,
had a large batch of Cyclamen in the East An-
nexe. Mr. May is a most successful cultivator
of these plants, judged by the examples ex-
hibited, many of the specimens having their
foliage entirely hidden by the masses of flowers,
which were of large size and very pure in colour.
(Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Roses, the first of the season, were shown by
Mr. George Mount, Canterbury, Kent, in the
usual style for w-hich this grower is famed. The
varieties were Mrs. R. G. Sharman Crawford,
Capt. Hayward, and Mrs. John Laing.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Low's Nursery,
Enfield, had a very pretty display of Carnations,
principally of the American type, and some
plants of " Low's .Salmon " Cyclamen.

Mr. A. F. Dutton, Tver, Bucks, displayed a
group of Carnations similar to those he exhibited
at the last meeting. A fancy basket, decorated
■with coloured ribbon, and filled with blooms of
the variety Mrs. T. W. Lawson, was much ad-
mired. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Ulessrs. J. Hill & Son, Barrowfield Nurseries,
Lower Edmonton, Middlesex, staged many rare
and choice Ferns, the whole forming an excel-
lent exhibit of these plants. Several large plants
of such species as Osmunda gracilis, Platycerium
prande, P. Veitchii, etc., Avere elevated above
th- general collection, which included such
choice things as Polystichum triangulare laxum,
Adiantum reniforme asarifolium, Todea pellu-

cjda, Lomaria attenuata, Davallia canariensis
elegans, etc. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

The Guildford Hardy Plant Nursery Co.,
Millmead, Guildford, staged a neat collection of
hardy plants in flower. We noticed a nice
clump of Erica carnea, the colour of the flowers
being well developed. Iris reticulata was also
shown well ; Doronicum Columuee was nicely
flowering, the inflorescences being scarcely more
than an inch above the ground level.

Messrs. B.4RR & Sons, 11, 12 and 13, King
Street, Covent Garden, displayed hardy and
other flowers. A batch of Lachenalias con-
tained many improved forms, one of the best
being the variety Ruth Lane, which has large
pendulous flowers tipped with purple. Daffodils,
including N. minimus. Irises, Saxifrages, and
Hellebores, and numerous other early-flowering
subjects found a place in the collection. Among
the many species of Helleborus w-as the curious
H. argutifolius, not the least beautiful feature
of which is its deeply-serrated, trifid leaves.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutsford, dis-
played a small group of Alpine flowers.

Messrs. John Peed cS: Son, West Norwood,
London, S.E., staged a collection of rock-garden
plants, also Lachenalias.

Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, W'oking, Sur-
rey, also contributed to the displays of Alpine
plants, having many interesting plants in flower,
including a fine batch of Shortia galacifolia. A
double-flowered form of Adonis amurensis was
pleasing. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, staged
three boxes containing Alpine plants, among
which were some well-coloured Primroses,
especially one named P. rosea. Dwarf Conifers
and small-growing shrubs were staged as a
background to the exhibit.

Messrs. G. & A. Clark, Ltd., The Nurseries,
Dover, Kent, set up a temporary rockery, on
which were arranged suitable subjects for a
rock-garden. A nice batch of Iris reticulata
was noticed ; coloured Primroses were also
shown well in this group.

Mr. G. Reuthe, Fox Hill Hardy Plant Nur-
sery, Keston, Kent, made a bright display with
Irises, Hepaticas, Scillas, Crocuses, and other
spring flowers. Rhododendron ciliatum was
shown in good form by this exhibitor. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Mr. M. Pritchaed, Christchurch, Hants, ex-
hibited a small collection of hardy flowers. We
noticed Tulipa Kaufmani nicely in flower, and
sprays of Haraamelis Zuccariniana.

A pan of Pinguicula caudata, with very
deeply-coloured flowers, was shown by J. T.
Bennett-Poe, Esq., Holmwood, Cheshunt (gr.
Mr. Downes). The form was shown under the
name of P. c. superba.

Messrs. T. S. Ware, Feltham, Middlesex, con-
tributed an exhibit of hardy plants and flowers
that bloom earliest, and several representatives
of Primula species. Narcissus, etc. (Bronze
Flora Medal.)

AWARDS OF MERIT.

Carnation Elliott's Queen. — This is a moder-
ately fragrant flower, of large size, commendable
form, and has non-splitting calyces. The colour
is of a shade of rose, and the petals are only
very slightly fringed. Shown by Mr. H.
Elliott, Hassocks, Sussex.

Carnation A'elson Fisher. — This variety, like
that already mentioned, belongs to the tree or
winter-flowering section, and was shown on this
occasion by Mr. A. F. Dutton, but was raised
in America. The flowers are of large size and
of violet-rose colour or a deep shade of cerise.

Davallia eanariensis elegans. — A very elegant
variety of this well-known species, having very
finely-divided fronds and pinnse. Shown by
Messrs. J. Hill cS; Sons.

Frcesia Tubcrgcni. — Some Freesias exhibited
under this name by Mr. C. G. van Tubergen,
Haarlem, Holland, were of violet colour, w-ith
whitish throat, and had a spot of bright
yellow at the extreme end of throat. Some of
the inflorescences bore as many as ten flowers
each, showing that the variety is a good grower.
The flowers are very prett)', and will be sure to
meet with appreciation.

Folypodium fhymatodes corymbosum. — A
corymbose variety of this most distinct species,
which, in the habit of growth, reminds one of a
slender-growing Platycerium, or a crested
Ptcris. The plant shown was growing over an
old stem of tree Fern. From Mr. H. B. May.

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in. the chair,
the Right Hon. the Earl of Tankerville, Jas.
O'Brien (hon. sec), Harry J. Veitch, H. Little,
\V. Boxall, W. H. Young, H. G. Alexander, H.
A Tracy, H. G. Morris, T. W. Bond, W. H.
White, A. A. McBean, Arthur Dye, W. A. Bilney,
J.W.Potter, H. T. Pitt. W. Cobb, R. G. Thwaites,
F. M. Ogilvie, S. Briggs-Bury, G. F. Moore, N.

C. Cookson, H. Ballantine, E. Ashworth, J. Col-
man, De B. Crawshay, and Francis Wellesley.

The Society's Gold Medal was awarded to W.
A Bilney', Esq., Fir Grange, Weybridge (gr. Mr.
Whitlock), for a splendid group occupying one
side of the central staging in the Hall, and com-
posed principally of Dendrobiums, among which
a very great variety of the best forms of D. nobile
and D, Ainsworthii were represented. The centre
was of the pure white form of D. nobile album,
behind which were large masses of the finely
coloured D. nobile nobilius, specimens of which
were also displayed at intervals along the group.
Forms of D. Cybele were varied and good, the
best being D. Cybele nobilius. The D. Ains
worthii class included the fine D. A. Hazlebourne
variety, and some excellent D. splendidissimum.
Other good displays were of D. Wardianum with
some hybrids of it ; D. pallens, D. xantho-
centrum, D. Wiganije, and VViganianum varieties ;

D. thyrsiflorum, D. albo-sanguineum, D. Mel-
pomene, D. Brymerianum, &c. ; Cymbidium ebur-
neum, various Odontoglossums, Oncidiums, &c.

From the Right Hon. Lord Rothschild's
gardens, Tring Park (gr. Mr. Arthur Dye), came
a group of the stately Lissochilus Horslallii, im-
ported from West Africa, and in the culture of
wliich the Hon. Walter Rothschild instituted a
special method, which has been successful in the
highest degree. This fine plant seems only to be
known from the original specimen which flowered
in 1864 with Mr. Horsfall, of Bellamour Hall,
Staffordshire, and which was figured in the
Botanical Magazine, t. 5486, and was soon lost. It
has probably been imported in a few examples
since, but never was grown and flowered again
until now at Tring Park. Mr. Walter Rothschild's
plan was to grow it as a river-bank plant, with the
Nymphaeas, or in tubs of water, and when strongly
growing frequent waterings of liquid manure were
given. The result has been that the specimens
formed broad, bright green plicate leaves and
stout spikes some 5 feet in heiglit (branched in
some instances), and bearing from 70 to 100 large
f^.owers and buds on each spike. The four fine
specimens shown were arranged with the pretty
Zululand Asparagus myriocladus, and with tall
Palms at the back ; the group was voted a
Sliver Gilt Flora Medal and the species given a
First Class Certificate. (See Awards.)

Messrs. Charlesvvorth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, secured a Silver Gilt Flora Medal for a very
fine group rich in hybrid Odontoglossums, among
which were the new O. Gladys (cirrosum x
Harryano-crispum), a prettily spotted flower; O.
amabile Charlesworthii, tinged with rose and
spotted with red-brown ; fine O. Harryano-tri-
umphans, O. Rolfeae, O. Loochristyense, and many
others. The Cattleyas included a good selection
of C. TrianE, two pretty C. Enid; and other good
things were Zygopetalum crinitum cocruleum, the
fine white Brasso-Cattleya Queen .'Vlexandra,
several fine yellow and crimson La;lio-Cattleya
Mvra, the rich reddish L.-C. Lucasiana Jeanette,
&c.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Egham (gr.
Mr. Ballantine), was awarded a Silver Flora
Medal for a splendid group of magnificently-grown
Calanthes, the bulbs being of enormous size and
in perfect condition. The centre was of Calanthe
Baron Schroder, the best of its class, raised at the
Dell. The tall spikes bore numerous large flowers,
with white sepals and petals tinged with rose at
the base, and rose-purple lip with dark maroon
eye. The outer five or six rows were of Calanthe
Regnieri, which has never, perhaps, been seen so
well grown.

Messrs. Jas. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham,
obtained a Silver Flora Medal for an excellent
group displaying great variety. The Dendrobiums
were very fine, especially D. Wardianum hololeu-
cum and other albinos, and with them were scarlet
Epiphronitis Veitchii, and Sophronitis ; Phalae-
nopsis Rimestadtiana, some good forms of Cattleya
Tnanae, Laelia anceps Schroderiana, La;lio-
Cattleya Dominiana of fine dark colour, Odonto-
glossums, hybrid Cypripediums, &c.

10»

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 1906.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, secured a
Silver Banksian Medal for an interesting group of
good things, in the centre of which was a fine
specimen of Ansellia africana with three large,
branched spikes. Dendrobium nobile nobiUus and
other Dendrobes were good ; varieties of Cattleya
Trianae well represented ; Brasso-Cattleya Empress
of Russia, Ladio-Cattleya x Berthe Fournier,
Oymbidium eburneo-Lowianum, Phaius Marthae,
forms of Coelogyne cristata, and good varieties of
Cypripedium insigne were also noted.

K. Briggs-Bury, Esq., Bank House, Accrington
(gr. Mr. Wilkinson), was awarded a Silver Bank-
sian Medal for a small group, including three of
llie fine Cypripedium Beekmanni, C. Maudis, one
of the varieties having a peculiar yellow tinge ; C.
villosum magnificum and others. Of Odonto-
glcssums noted were O. crispum Empress of India,
a finely-blotched flower; two O. Loochristvense,
Arc.

Messrs. Stanley & Co., Southgate, were voted
a Silver Banksian ETedal for a group of very fine
specimens of the beautiful cool-house Oncidium
concolor, each with three or four stout sprays of
large clear yellow flowers.

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Loocliristi, Ghent, was
.ijiven a Silver Banksian Medal for a small group
of rare hybrid Odontoglossums, including O. bella-
tulum, O. Wiganianum, O. Wilckeanum, O. Rolfeai'
O. Vuylstekei, and others all of fine quality.

Francis Welleslev, Esq., Westfield (gr. Mr.
Hopkin.s), showed Lzelio-Cattleya Mrs. R. A. H.
Mitchell (calhstoglossa x Martinetti), a large
iiower of a bright rose tint with purphsh crimson
h'p, L.-C. Marnhami (callistoglossa X Aphrodite),
.1 pretty hybri.d with broad petals. Sepals and
])etals pale rosy lilac, lip broad and marked with
purplish crimson. Cypripedium Miss Marian
Sillem, pure white densely spotted with purple,
and C. Mrs. W. E. Dickson, a fine C. Rothschildi-
anum cross.

C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court (gr. Mr.
Duncan), showed a group in which the showy
I^aclio-Cattleya Warnhamensis was specially fine ;
with them were I-'haius maculatus, Angraecum
sesquipedale, CymbidiumLowio-eburneum, Cypri-
pedium Warnhamense, C. calypso, with six
flowers, &c. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, staged a
group in which were good Dendrobium Boxalli
and D. crassinode, Pleurothallis Roezlii, Sacco-
labium Harrisonianum, Oncidium sarcodes, Epi-
(lendrum Endresio-Wallisii, Cypripedium Helen
XL with four flowers, the fine white Lycaste
Skinneri alba magnifica, Phalsenopsis Schilleriana,
Ac. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Heath & Sons, Cheltenham, showed a
small group, including two nice specimens of D.
Cassiope x Dominianum, the tine D. nobile
Heathii. several D. barbatulum, Coelogyne cris-
tata, Odontoglossums, <S:c.

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr.
W H. White), showed very fine specimens of
Dendrobium Sybil, D. Wiganije album, D. W.
lUustre (see Awards), and D. Euryalus Apollo
album.

J. GuRNEY Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), showed Dendrobium
-Vinsworthii Thompsoni, and a good Schneideri-
anum.

Jeremiah CoLMAN, Esq., Gatton Park, showed
finely-flowered specimens of Dendrobium Wigania:,
D. Wiganianum. D. Ainsworthii, D. Venus, D.
Othello, D. nobile nobilius, D. n. alba, and other
Dendrobes, including the fine white D. x Col-
inanae.

M. G. ViNCKE-DujARDiN, Bruges, sent Catileya
Triana; ccerulea, with a slaty-blue front to the
iip, &c.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), showed the fine Phaius
Clive which had previously obtained an Award of
Merit.

Elijah Ashworth, Esq., Harefield Hall (gr.
Mr. Holbrook), showed Dendrobium Haywo^d^
Harefield Hall variety, and Cypripedium George
Hackenschmidt (tenebrosum x insigne, Harefield
Hall).

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East
Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), showed Chysis
tevis Euperba, a fine form with orange-red outer
halves to the segments.

H. S. GooDsoN, Esq., Putney (gr. Mr. G.
Day), sent Cypripedium H. S. Goodson (Spiceri-
anum magnificum X Lathamianum).

R. G. Thwaites, Esq., Streatham (gr. Mr.
Black), showed the handsome Dendrobium
Thwaitesipf:.

H. T. Pitt, Esq. (gr. Mr. Thurgood), showed
Odontoglossum Wilckeanum, Pitt's variety, one of
the very best Wilckeanum varieties, with very
large, pale yellow, heavily blotched flowers of fine
substance, the colours being enhanced by the
polished surface.

De B. Crawshay, Esq., showed the unsurpassed
Odontoglossum triumphans Lionel Crawshay, O.
t. Crawshayanum, and O. Andersonianum YoungL

AWARDS.
First Class Certificate.

Lissocliiliis Horsfiillii, from The Hon. Walter
Rothschild, M.P. A noble species with lanceolate,
bright green leaves and tall stout spikes of 70 or
more flowers of good size. Sepals upturned and
recurved at the tops, tinged and lined dark purple.
Petals orbicular and extended forward, white suf-
fused with rose. Side lobes of the lip erect,
greenish with purple markings ; front lobe deep
rose purple ; base of the lip white streaked with
purple; callus ivory white. A most remarkable
and handsome species. I'our plants were shown,
one bearing three spikes.

Sophro-Cattlcya Warnhamensis " Cerise," irom Sir
W. H. S. Marriott, Blandford (gr. Mr. Denny),
flowers of good size, bright reddish scarlet. The
spike bore four flowers.

Odontoglossum Foivlerianum (Rossii rubescens >
cirrosura), from Messrs. Sander & Sons. A veiy
pretty hybrid with narrow .sepals and petais
densely spotted with dark purple and tipped and
margined bright rose purple, the long blade of the
lip being of the same colour, the base and callus
being yellow.

Award of Merit.

Dendrobium Wigania illustre, from Sir Trevor
Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White) A
model flower, cream-white tinged with rose ; disc
of the lip orange with heavy maroon blotch.

Dcndiobium nobile " Perfection," from Messrs. Jas.
Cypher & Sons. Probably the broadest and
roundest form of D. nobile, and finely coloured
magenta rose with a dark base to the broad lip.
A home-raised seedling between D. nobile elegans
and nobilius.

Odontoglossum Rossii immaeulatum, from De B.
Crawshay, Esq. (gr. Mr. Stables). A very pretty
variety with whitish sepals tinged with rose and
entirely unspotted. Petals and lip white with a
faint blush tint. Pretty and unique.

Dendrobium Wiganianum, Gatton Park variety,
from Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr.
Mr. W. P. Bound). A large and finely formed
flower of a cream-white tinted with rose, and a
purplish disc to the lip.

Brasso-Catlleya Digbyano Mendelii, var. Fortina,
from J. Bradshaw, Esq., Southgate (gr. Mr. (j.
G. Whitelegge). Flowers with a slight greenish
tint.

Plcione yunnanensis from Messrs. Sutton & Sons,
Reading. The pretty rose-lilac species described
in the Gardeners' Chronicle, Feb. 24, p. 115.

Odontiodii Hcatoncnscis from Messrs. Charles-
worth & Co., Heaton, Bradford. A most interest-
ing hybrid between Odontoglossum cirrosum and
Cochlioda sanguinea. Flowers white, densely
spotted with rose-pink and similar in size to those
ot O. odoratum, but broader in the segments.
Botanical Certificate.

Cynorchis eompacta, from Baron SirH. Schrouek
A pretty dwarf tufted species with many erect
spikes of white flowers.

Cultural Commendation.

To Mr. W. H. White (gr. to Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart.), for a splendid specimen of Dendro-
bium Sybil.

To Mr. W. H. White for a fine plant of the
blush-white Dendrobium superbum Burkei.

To Mr. W. P. Bound (gr. to Jeremiah Colman,
Esq.), for Masdevallia Pourbai.xii, with many
flowers.

Diploma Awards.

Dendrobium nobile Varieties. — 1st Diploma:
Dendrobium nobile "Perfection" from Messrs.
Jas. Cypher & Sons. 2nd Diploma : Dendrobium
nobile Dormanianum from Jeremiah Colman, Esq.

Hybrids of D. nobile and D. aureum. — 1st
Diploma: Dendrobium Wiganianum, Gatton Park
variety, from Jeremiah Colman, Esq. 2nd Dip-
loma : Dendrobium Ainsworthii intertextum from
Baron Sir H. Schroder.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: A. H. Pearson, Esq. (in the chair),
and Messrs. Jos. Cheat, Geo. Woodward, S.
Mortimer, A. Dean, H. Parr, A. R. Allan, W.
I'ope, K. Lye, W. Crump, H. Markham, H. J.

Wright, Ed. Beckett, Jas. Vert, J. Lyne, Jos.
Davies, F. Q. Lane, Geo. Reynolds, J. Willard,
G-eo. Wythes, J. Mclndoe, C. Foster, W. H.
Divers, "O. Thomas, P. C. M. Veitch, W.
J'oupart, and J. Jaques.

The lamented death of the late Mr. George
Nornian has removed a prominent member of
this Committee. Expressions of sympathy with
the members of the family were made at the
meeting, and it was decided to send a formal
letter of condolence to Mrs. Norman.

The principal exhibit brought to the notice of
the Committee was a collection of 33 dishes of
Apples and Pears, shown by J. B. Foutescue,
Esq., Dropmore, Maidenhead (gr. Mr. C. Page).
Some good plates of fruit were noticed, but it
was apparent that the majority were quite past
their season. Bramley's Seedling, Hambling's
Seedling, Hambledon Deux-Ans, and Gas-
coigne's Scarlet were among the best samples,
rhe specimens of CatiUac Pears had the mellow
appearance seen in choice dessert varieties. (Sil-
ver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. J. Cook, Forde Abbey Gardens, Chard,
showed a dish of Veitch's Early Wonder Dwarf
Beans.

Mr. Wythes, Syon House Gardens, Brent-
ford, had a plate of Carter's Sunrise Tomato, ex-
hibited to show its use for winter fruiting. The
fruits were of moderate size only.

Mr. Foster, University College Gardens,
i-teading, displayed excellent samples of forced
Chicory.

The Superintendent brought specimens of
Snow's Winter White and of Brydon's Peerless
Broccolis from the trial grounds at Wisley. The
inflorescences were lax and yellowish in colour,
and the general opinion of the members was
that the varieties w-ere not equal to the old type
of .Snow's Winter White, consequently no award
was made.

COMPLIMENTARY DINNER TO MR.
WILLIAM MARSH.\LL, V.M.H.

There are few men who are better known or
more respected by habitual visitors to the Royal
Horticultural Society's meetings than Mr. William
Marshall, who has just entered upon his 21st year
as Chairman of the Floral Committee. In order
to show their respect and express their congratula-
tions on this auspicious event, Mr. Marshall was
entertained at dinner at the Hotel Windsor on
Tuesday evening last by the Floral Committee
and their friends. The Committee has also pre-
sented Mr. Marshall with his portrait in oils,
which, although not perfectly finished, promises
to be a very faithful representation. Mr. Harry J.
Veitch presided, and at his right hand were Mr.
W. Marshall, Mr. H. B. May, &c., and on his
left Dr. M.T. Masters. F.R.S., W. A. Bilney, Esq.,
&c., the company present numbering 75. Mr. Veitch,
in proposing the toast of "Our Guest," said that
he had known Mr. Marshall for more than 40
years. He had respected him a little as an en-
tomologist, much as a philanthropist, and very
greatly as an amateur horticulturist. Reference
was made to Mr. Marshall's successful cultivation
and exhibition of stove plants in the early sixties.
These were subsequently partly given up for hardy
Ferns and hardy plants generally. He had the
honour of flowering Odontoglossum crispum
(Alexandr^e) first in this country, and two Orchid
species at least bore Mr. Marshall's name. These
were Thunia Marshalliana and Oncidium Mar-
shallianura. Mr. Veitch went on to speak of Mr.
Marshall's efforts in helping to found the United
Horticultural Society, and of the unusually suc-
cessful exhibition which was held in the Guildhall
ini8C5(seeGiiirffHf)'s'C7(roii/f/f,Oct. 14, 1905, p. 287).
The proceeds from that show, said Mr. Veitch.
were the means used for establishing the United
Horticultural Benefit and Provident Society,
which has developed so much in its degree of
usefulness. Mr. Marshall was one of those who
helped to found the Royal Gardeners' Orphan
Fund, and on Mr, Deal's death he was chosen as
chairman of the executive committee. In addi-
tion to all this, Mr. Marshall has been a member
of the Royal Horticultural Society's Council for
many years, and, as we have already stated,
chairman of the Floral Committee for 20 years.

Mr. Marshall, on rising to respond, was received
with great enthusiasm and cheering. He com-
menced by thanking those present for the great
honour they had done him, but he said they had
placed him in a " deliciously difficult corner."
because he had to speak of himself, which was
not an agreeable subject. He showed a side

March 10, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

109^

'ight on to tlie circumstances that led to the
Council abstaining for some years from recom-
mending any of its own members as recipients
of the Victoria Medal of Honour in Horticulture.
They have departed from the custom as the cir-
cumstances have now become quite different, and
as the gentlemen for which this was done were
Mr. Harry J. Veitch and Mr. Marshall, the
Council's decision will be generally approved.
Mr. Marshall cordially recognised the kmdness
and loyalty that had always been shown him by
members of the Floral Committee, and said that
in the 20 years he had only been obliged to call a
member to order on two occasions.

The ne.Nt toast was proposed by Dr. M. T.
Masters, F.R.S., and was that of "The Rf)yal
Horticultural Society." He said that his recol-
lections extended further back than those of either
Mr. Marshall or Mr. Veitch. His first recollection
was of rather a painful character. The society
was selling its library, museum, and everything
possible. He was then deputed by the authorities of
the Botanic Garden, O.xford, to buy some of the
books, and now after a long stretch of time he had
that day (Tuesday) assisted at a meeting held to
consider the better management of the Lindley

GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES.

ivr A R k: E T s.

WILLIAM MAKSHALL, V.M.H.,

wlio has entered on his 21st year as Chalrnian of the
R.H.S. Floral Committee.

Library, which, however, w-as much more e.K-
tensive than the original library. About i85o he
(Dr. Masters) joined the Floral Committee;
in view of these reminiscences he was proud
and pleased to see the measure of success the
society was now enjoying. Mr. George Paul
responded. Other toasts included " The Chair-
man," proposed by Mr. W. A. Bilney ; "The
Dinner Committee," proposed by Mr. R W.
Kerr, and responded to by Mr. George Gordon,
V.M.H. ; and "The Artistes and Donors of
Floral Decorations," proposed by Mr. A. Dean,
and responded to by Mr. Tom Powley.

The tables were most tastefully decorated with
winter flowering Carnations, but in front of the
guest of the evening was placed a bowl plente-
ously furnished with flowers of Odontoglossum
crispum. The musical part of the programme
was contributed to by iMessrs. R. and A. Marshall,
Messrs. J. H., P. J., and Ted Berry, and Mr. Tom
Powley. It was a matter of regret that Mr. J.
F. McLeod who had done much towards securing
a good programme was prevented from attending
by reason of indisposition.

Thomas H. Sutton. — Deceased, who died
after a painful illness at Sturford Cottage, Corsley,
Wiltshire, on the 2nd inst., was well known in
horticultural and agricultural circles. After
obtaining good experience, which included some
years spent at Keele Hall, Staffs., and at Blen-
heim Palace, he was appointed to the charge of the
gardens and farm at Worksop Manor, the residence
of the late W. I. Cookson, Esq., which position he
retained for nearly 20 years. During the past 15
years Mr Sutton has had charge of the Wiltshire
and Somersetshire residence and estates of that
.'.{entleman's son, Theodore Cookson, Esq. Under
his management the Sturford shorthorn herd at-
tained to a wide celebrity and met with many
successes at the Royal and other shows.

CHELMSFORD & DISTRICT GARDENERS'.—

At tlie weekly meetmg of this association, held on March 3,
Mr. E. Hamincnd, gardener at Widford Lodge, read a paper
on "Spring Bedding." The paper furnished a list of suit-
able plant'i for simultaneous flowering, and for choice effects
of colouring. \V . C. S.

LIVERPOOL HORTICULTURAL.— The fourth and
last of a series of lectures delivered to the members of this
society was held on Saturday, 3rd inst., Mr. Mercer occupy-
ing the chair. The lecture, entitled " Ancient and Modern
Gardens," illustrated by a number of lantern slides, was
delivered by Mr. Barnes, gardener to the Duke of West-
minster, Eaton Hall. The paper dealt with some of the
most interesting gardens in the country, and compared the
styles of flower beds adopted in those gardens. J . P.

THE WEATHER.

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.

The Following Summary Record of the
\veather throughout the British Islands, for the
week ending March 3, is furnished from the
Meteorological Office : — -

The u-cathcr was of a variable type ; more or less rain,
sleet, or snow fell on most days, but there were frequent
intervals during which the sun shone brightly. Thunder
was heard at Swarraton on Monday morning.

The temperature was below the average generally—as much
as 3° in the north and east of Scotland, but just equal to the
normal in England E. and slightly above it in England S.
and S.W. and the Channel Islands. The highest of the
maxima occurred on varying dates, and ranged from 55** in
the south and south-west of England and the south of Ire-
land to 4b' in the west and north of Scotland. The absolute
minima, which were mostly registered either at the be.^in-
ning or end of the period, were as low as iS'' in Scotland E.
(at Balmoral), but elsewhere varied from 22" in the Midland
Counties and 23° in Scotland N. to 2b* in Ireland and to 36° in
the Chantifl Islands.

The rainitill somewhat exceeded the average in most dis-
tricts, but was less in Scotland li., England S. and Ireland
S.,and about equal to in England E. and Scotland W.

The bright sunshine differed little from the average, the
aggregate number of hours being only slightly higher or
lower" than the normal. The percentage of the possible
duration ranged from 35 in Scotland E. and England S., and
33 in Ireland N. to 27 in the Midland Counties and England
N.W., and to 22 in Scotland N.

THE WEATHER IX WEST HERTS.
May iceather in March. During the past week the day
temperatures were all above the average, but on one night
the exposed thermometer registered 13° of frost. On the two
wdxmest days the temperature in the thermometer screen rose
to 64", which is the highest reading as yet recorded here so
early in the spring, and on the warmest night the exposed
thermometerdidnotfall lower than 41''— a high night tempera-
ture for the time of year. The ground has now become warm,
and at the present tmie is about a" warmer at 2 feet deep, and
5** warmer at i foot deep than is seasonable. There has
been virtually no rain during the past week ; the percolation
through both the soil gauges is now rapidly declining. The
sun shone on an average" for nearly 4J hours a day, or for
about an hour a day longer than is usual at this season. On
two days no sunshine at all was recorded, but, on the other
hand, on three days the record exceeded 7* hours a day.
The wind was, as "a rule, of about moderate strength, and
came principally from some point between south and west.
The mean amount of moisture in the air at 3 p.m. was 3 per
cent, less than a seasonable quantity for that hour. An Early
Rivers Peach growing on a south wall in my garden came
first into blossom on the 6th, or 17 days earlier than its
average date in the previous 20 years, and. with three
exceptions, earlier than in any of those years.

February.

PersislcnUy icet a}u! yet exceptionally sunny. Taken as a
whole this was a mouth of about average temperature. On
the warmest day the highest reading in the thermometer
screen was only 49°, and on the coldest night the exposed
thermometer showed only 17* of frost. Both of these e\-
tremes are very moderate for Eebruary, and more particu-
larly the highe^it dav temperature. Although there were no
exceptionally cold nights, on all but three nights during the
month the exposed thermometer registered readings below
the freezing-point. Rain, hail, snow, or sleet fell on as
many as 22 days, or for a greater number than in any pre-
vious February, and yet the total measurement, 2^ inches,
was less than half an inch in excess of the February
average. On one occasion in the middle of the month the
ground was covered with snow for a short time to the mean
depth of an inch. Nearly the whole of the rainfall came
through the percolation gauges. The sun shone, on an
average, for nearly three hours a day, or for more than half
an hour a day longer than usual. In fact, with four excep-
tions, this was the sunniest February during the past 20
\ ears. The winds were on the whole rather high, but in the
windiest hour the mean velocity reached only eighteen miles
—direction W. N. W. The mean amount of moisture m the
air at three o'clock in the afternoon fell short of a seasonable
quantity for that hour by two per cent.
The Winter.

Exceptionally warm and sunny . This was a warm winter,
indeed, there have been only three warmer in the last 20
years. At no time did the thermometer, exposed on the lawn,
show more than 17'^' of frost. The total rainfall exceeded
the average by only about half an inch but there was an un-
usual number of days when rain fell. The record of clear
sunshine averaged two hours a day, which is about 20 min-
utes a day in excess of the mean.

Our Underground Water Supply.

Since the winter half of the drainage year began in October,
the total rainfall has been i2i inches, or about half an inch
in defect of the average for the same five months, equivalent
to a deficiency in rainfall on each acre in this district of
8,370 gallons. At the same time last year the deficiency
amounted to 126,680 gallons. E. M., Bcrkhamsted, March /,
WOO,

COVENT GARDEN, March 7.

[\\'e cannot accept any responsibility lor the subjuintJ
reports. They are furnished to us regularly e\ery
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
must be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only Ih^
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of tlic
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supj)ly
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several tiineb
in one day. — Ed.]

Cut Foliage, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

bunch ...

— — short sprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri

— tenuissimus ...
-Vdiantum cunea-

tum, doz. bun.
lierberis, per

bunch

Croton leaves, per

bunch

Cycas leaves, each
I'ern, English, p.

dozen bunches

s.d. s.d.

6 0-13 0

2 0-26

10-16
0 6-10
0 fi- 0 9

G 0-9 0

2 6-30

10-16

16-20

Fern, French, do/.

bunches
Galax leaves, per

doz. bunches...
Hardy foliage

(various), per

dozen bunches
Ivy-leaves, bronze

— long trails per
bundle

— short green,
doz. bunches...

Moss, per gross ...
Myrtle, per dozen

bunches
Tuberoses, per dz.

blooms
Smilas,p. dz. trails

.d. s.d.

2 6- 4 a
16-20

2 0- :( 0

5 0-00

y 0- (; 0

0 4^ 0 G
16-40

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Acacia Drum-
mondi, per dz.

.\mpelopsis Veit-
chii, per dozen

Ara lia Sieboldi,

f)er dozen
arger

Araucaria excclsa,

per dozen

.Aspidistras, green,

per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

.\sparagus plumo-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri, doz.

— ten uissimus
per dozen

Azaleas, each

Begonia Gloire de
Lorraine, doz.

— Turnford Hall,
Boronia megas-

tigina, per doz.
Callas, per dozen ...
Cinerarias, per dz.
Clematis, per doz.

— in flower
Crotons, per dozen

s.d. s.d.

18 0-24 0

6 0-80

S 0- 8 0
12 0-15 0

12 0-30 0

18 0-30 0

30 0-42 0

9 0-12 0
9 0-10 0

9 0-12 0
2 0-36

12 0-18 0

12 0-18 0

24 0-30 0
0 0-90
8 0-10 0
8 0-90
18 0-24 0
12 0-30 0

Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen

Cyclamen, per doz.

— extra quality...
Cyperus alternilo-

lius, dozen

— laxus, per doz
Deutzias, per doz.
Drac^nas, per doz.
Erica gracilis, doz.

— hyemalis

— melanthera ...

— Wilmoreana ...
Euony nius, per

doz.
Ferns, in thumbs,
perioo

— in 4a's,per doz.

— in 32's,perdo/,.
Ficus elastica, per

dozen

— repens, per doz.
Genistas, per doz.
Hyacinths(3inpol),

per doz.
Kentia Belinore-
ana, per dozen

— For steriana,
per dozen

12 0-30 0

6 0-12 0
IS 0-21 0

4 0-50

4 0-50
9 0-12 0-
9 0-24 0
12 0-lH 0.
12 0-24 0
12 0-18 U
12 0-18 O

4 0-9 0.

7 0-10 O

4 0-10 0.
10 0-18 0

9 0-1 S 0.

5 0- 8 li

8 0-10 O

6 0- U 0
12 0-18 0

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.

Apples :— English,
per bush

— Calif ornian
Newtown Pip-
pin, per barrel '
per case
Nova Scotians,
per barrel :

— Starks ...

— Spys ...

— Falla waters

— Wagners

— Russets

— Baldwins

— Ribston Pippin '.

— BlenheimPip'n

— Greening

— King of Tomp-
kin's County ...
Canadian, per
barrel :

New York Im-
perials

— Russets

— Greening ... :
- Baldwins

Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...
Extra quality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per
doz

Cranberries, case-
Custard ApiJles —
Dates, Tunis, per
box

— Egyptian, cwt.
Grape Fruit, p. box :
Grapes, Alicante,

per lb

— Gros Colmar,
per lb

— (Cape), small
cases ...

— large case

s.d. s.d.

s.u. s.d.

Grapes, Almeria,

60-9 0

per barrel ... 18 0-35 0

Lychees, perboi... 0 10- 1 0

Lemons :

20 0-42 0

— Messina, case 8 0-15 0

7 6-18 0

Mangos, doz. ., 2 0-40

Neclarines tCapc),

per box ... 7 0-10 U

22 0-24 0

Nuts, Cobnuts, per

24 0-25 0

doz. lb 7 6 —

23 0-26 0

— Brazils, new.

18 0-19 0

per cwt. ... 50 0 —

23 0-2B 0

~ Spanish, p. bag 42 0-43 Oi

21 0-23' 0

— Barcelona, per

19 0 —

bag 24 0 —

18 6-21 0

— Almonds, p.cwt 36 0 —

23 0-24 0

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag ... 18 0 —

25 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt 85 0 —

— Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6-15 (X
— Cocoanuts, 100 8 6-16 l>

25 0-28 0

18 0-30 0

Oranges, Valentia,

20 0-25 0

per case ... 12 6-33 :l

18 0-22 0

— Seville, p. box

(2u0) 7 0- 7 11

66-7 0

— Navel 14 6-15 6.

5 0-56

— Jafla .. .. U 6-10 0.

96 -

— Jamaica ... 10 0 —

— Blood 9 0-11 0

12 0-14 0

— Mandarines,

46-6 0

per bo.t (25) ... 0 10- 1 0

„ (50) ... 10-12

0 8-10

(96) ... 3 9 —

13 0-14 0

— Palermo, perlOO 3 0 —

3 0-60

Peaches (Cape) ... 5 0-0 U

Pears (Cape), per

0 4 —

bo.x 16-5 0.

19 6 —

— Call f ornian.

22 0-24 0

bos 5 0-10 0.

— stewing varie-

16- 3 0

ties.per i bush. 2 6- 3 (»

— stewing, crate 10 6 ^

16-30

Pineapples, each... 2 6-6.6;

Plums (Cape), pet-

,-. 0 —

box 3 0- « 0-

10 0 —

Strawberries, lb.... 5 U-12 U.

100

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 10, 190G.

Cut Flowers, &c.: Average Wholesale. Prices.

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...

— fulgens

— cardinalis
Azalea indica., per

doz. bunches
Azalea mollis, bun.
Calla 3ethiopica,per

dozen

■Camellias, doz. ...
Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms
Chrysanthemums,
per doz. best
blooms

— small blooms,
per doz. bchs.

Coelogyne cristata,
per dz. blooms

Cypripediums, per
doz

Dendrobium War-
dianuni and no-
bile, per doz.
blooms

Eucharis grandi-
flora, per doz.
blooms

Euphorbia jacquiiu-
teflora, per doz.
si^rays

Freesias, per doz.
bunches

Gardenias, per doz.
blooms

Hyacinth, dozen
bunches

Lilac, per bunch ...

Liliuui auratum ...

— lancif olium,
ru br u m and
album

— longiflorum ...
Lily of the Valley,

p. doz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Marguerites, white,

p. doz. bunches

— yellow, dz. bun,
" Mimosa, "dz. bun.
Mignonette, dozen

bunches
Narcissus, "Paper
White," doz.
bunches

s.d. s.d. I

2 0-40

2 6-30

3 0-40

4 0-50
1 0- 1 t>

16-40
16-20

s.d. s.d.

3 0-50
1 (i- 3 0

9 0-12 0

I 6- 2 G

2 0-26

2 6-30

4 0-60

3 0-50

4 0-80
3 0-40
2 6-30

.2 0-3 0

3 0-50

6 0-90
9 0-12 0

2 0-30
2 0-30
6 0-90

i 6-

1 6-

4 0-
4 0-

3 0-
li 0-

2 0-

5 0

t) 0

5 0

3 0

4 0

0 6 0

3 0-

1 6-
3 0-

2 0
5 0

N a rci ss us ,
Soleil d'Or ...

— Golden Spur,
per doz. biichs.

— Horsfieldi

— Incomparabilis
varieties

— Ornatus

— Princeps

— Sir Watkin,per
doz. bunches...

— Telemonius,
plenus, per
doz. bunches..

O don toglossum
crispuni, per
dozen blooms 2 0-30

— g ra nd e, per

dozen blooms 4 0-50
Ornithogaluui ^Star

of Bethleliem)

per doz. bchs.
Pancratiums, doz.
Pelargoniums,

show, doz. bun.

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Primula, double

white, per doz.

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— K a 1 se r i n A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet ...

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty

— Mad. Chatenay

— Mrs. J. Laing
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses 4 0-60
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches ..
Tulips, per dozen

bunches

— special quality 15 0-18 0
Violets, 12 bunches 10-20

— special qual.... 2 0-30

— Parma, French,

large bunches 2 0-40

4 0- G 0
G 0- 0 0

5 0-60
9 0-12 0

2 0-

3 0-

4 0
G 0

3 0-50

4 0- G 0
6 0-90

2 6-40
4 0-60
4 0- S 0
4 0-60

2 0-30

3 0-50

5 0-00

Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices.

Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground, 4bush.
Asparagus', per

bundle : —

— Spanish

— Paris Green ...

— Sprue

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, perpkt.

— Flageolet, bo.\

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— Channel Island

— Madeira, bask.

— Niggers
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, per doz.
Cabbages, per tally

— red, per bushel
Chow Chow, per

dozen

Carrots, French pad

— cwt., un-
washed

— bag, washed ...
Chicory, per lb. ..
Cauliflowers, doz.

— Italian Heads,
per basket

Celery, p. doz.bdis.

Celenac, per doz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles

Kale, Scotch, bush.

Leeks, 12 bundles

Lettuces, French,
per doz.

Mint, per dozen ...

Mushrooms(house)
per lb

s.d. s.d.

2 6 3 0
13 —

1 10 —

4 6-56
0 10 —
0 6.i- 0 7

0 6"
0 10 —

13-14
13-14
2 0-30

5 0 —
13-16
16-20
2 6-36
2 0 —

1 G- 2 0

2 6 —

13-16
2 0-26
0 2i-0 3
2 0 —

2 0-26

6 0-12 0
2 6 —
4 0-60
19-20

10 U-12 0
0 9-10
20 - ,

Mushrooms, But-
tons, per lb. ...

Mustardand Cress,
per dozen pun.

Onions, Valencia,
per case

— Dutch, bag ...

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, k bag..

— Spring, "dozen
bunches

Parsley, 12 bunches
Parsnips, per bag..
Peas (French flats)
— per packet ...
Potatos (new) : —
Canary, cwt....

— French (new),
per tb

— Channel Island
Kidneys

— Algerian, cwt.

— ,, barrel
Radishes, French

breakfast, p. dz.
Rhubarb, per doz.
Salsafy, p. dz. bdls.
Savoys, per tally ...
Spinach, French

crate

Sprouts, ^bushel ...
Sea Kale, p. punnet
Spinach (French),

pad

Tomatos : —

— foreign, bundle
of 4 boxes

Turnips, per doz.
bun

— bags

Turnip Tops, bush.
Watercress, per

doz. bunches ..

s.d. s.d.
0 10 —

1 0- 1 G

7 0-80

3 0-39

2 0-26
2 3 —

2 0-30
2 0- 3 0

2 0- 2 6
5 0- 5 G
0 6-07

10 0-14 0

0 2i- 0 4

0 4-05

18 0 —
20 0 "

13-18
10-12

4 0 —

5 0-70

3 6-50

16 —
10-13

10 0-12 0

.._ 16-20

10-13 — bags 20-30

4 0-60 Turnip Tops, bush. 10-13

Watercress, per
0 9- 1 0 I doz. bunches ..0 6 —

Remarks.— The last consignment of Peaches from the
Cape was of poor quality, the fruits being colourless and
unripe, consequently they met with no great demand.
Grapes from the Cape are arriving in good condition, and
meet with a ready sale. A consignment of Asparagus from
Spain met with a good demand, in fact. Asparagus from all
sources is selling well. English and Channel Islands Beans
are much cheaper. Trade in fruit and vegetables has much
improved owing to the prevalence of exceptionally fine
weather. E. H. Rides, Covcnt Garden, March 3.

POTATOS.

Blacklands, 55s. to 6ob. ; Bedfords, 65s. to 75s. ; Lincolns,
45s. to 60s. ; Kents, 70s. to 80s. ; Dunbars, 80s. to 95s. per ton.
—John Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covmt Garden,

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

The trade in plants is still very quiet, and growers of im-
ported Azaleas and Dutch bulbous plants can scarcely be
receiving returns sufficient to pay for the cost of the stock.
Azalea indica in all the best varieties continues over plentiful.
On Saturday last plants which usually cost fully ^5 per loo in
Belgium were being sold in the London streets at is. each.
Hyacinths are also sold for equally low prices. Spirseas
are now plentiful and well developed. Well -flowered
Genistas are sent by several growers, and are cheaper.
Cinerarias are good ; the flowers of the type grown for
market are not of the most perfect form, but they are bright,
while the habit of the plants is all that can be desired.
Cyclamen are remarkably good, but returns are low.
Good Begonias are not over plentiful. Marguerites are very
good in quality, but these plants are not in great demand.
Erica Wilmoreana is moderately good. E. gracilis vernalis
can be had in dwarf, bushy, well-flowered plants. A few
E. hyemalis are still coming in the market. Also E. melan-
thera in tall pyramidal plants. Dendrobium Wardianum is
noticed in well-flowered plants, but there seems little de-
mand for them. There is little variation in the trade and
supply of Ferns, Palms, and other foliage plants, but with
the mild weather there is an increased trade among hardy
flower roots. Pansies in flower sell readily. Polyanthus,
Primroses, and Daisies, with a few flowers open, are also in
demand.

Cut Flowers.

I have never heard more grumbling among the salesmen
than I did when going round the market this morning. The
very large supplies of foreign flowers materially affect the sale
of English grown specimens. Roses are now coming from
all the usual sources, and fine blooms on long stems of the
varieties Mrs. J. Laing, CaroUne Testout, and others are now-
more plentiful; indeed many were left unsold at closing
time this morning. Supplies of Carnations are excessive,
and returns have fallen considerably. Lilium auratum of
good quality are now seen. L. longiflorums are cheaper.
L. lancifolium vary considerably ; many blooms are of poor
quality, butthe best make good figures. Eucharis are not quite
so numerous. Azalea Fielder! is over plentiful. Callas are
good and cheap. Tulips continue over plentiful ; some very
fine double varieties of these flowers are seen, and these
make better prices than the "singles." Daffodils in best
varieties from English growers, and the large quantities
from the Scilly Islands and Guernsey, considerably exceed
all demands. Lily of the Valley with good green foliage can
be had in plenty. Taking the market all round supplies are
exceedingly good, but meet with a very slow trade. A. H.,
Covtnt Garden Market, March 7, 1906.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Apple, Cox's Orange Pippis. —Garden Album, t. 6.

Berberis Darwinii. — Garden Album, t. 7.

BouGAiNviLLEA GLABRA VAR. Sanderiana. — Garden
Album, t. 8.

Cypripedium .\lcibiades VAR. MAGtiiFicA.—Garden a Ibiim,
p. 28.

Epiphvllum delicatum. — Revue de I'HoHiculture Bcl^c,
March. See Gardeners' Chronicle, December 6, 1902, p. 411.

Odontoglossum ardentissimum VAR. Theodora. — Gar-
den Album, p. 27.

Meconopsis iNTEGRiFOLiA.— Gajvicn Album, tab. 5. See
also Supplement to the Gardeners' Chronicle, October 1, 1904.

Rehmannia ANGULATA.—GrtKffn Album, p. ig. See also
Supplement to the Gardeners' Chronicle, May 9, 1903.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Apple Trees on Chalk : C. N. M. "We have
seen Apple trees planted on chalk, but these
have never been satisfactory. The growth is
stunted and the produce very poor compared
with the fruits that are cultivated on more
suitable land. Much can be done, however, to
improve the top spit of even chalky soil by
heavily manuring it and by top dressing with
dung, affording copious supplies of water, and
pricking over the surface of the ground once
each year with a fork so as to encourage the
roots to the surface. If you give each tree a
good start at the time of planting by surround-
ing it with fresh, turfy loam, and afterwards
treat the ground as already mentioned, you may
obtain moderately good results. The followmg
varieties are amongst the best for cultivation on
the paradise stock : — Dessert : Mr. Gladstone,
Beauty of Bath, Benn's Red', Lady Sudeley,
Worcester Pearmain*, James Grieve, Gra\en-
stein. Wealthy*, Cox's Orange Pippin, AlliuKton
Pippin, Mother*, Cockle Pippin, Adams Pear-
main, Blenheim Pippin, Mrs. Phillimore*, Clay-
gate Pearmain*, Beauty of Kent, Lord Burghley,
and King's Acre Pippin. Cooking: Lord Gros-
venor, Ecklinville Seedling, Lord Derby, War-
ner's King, Lane's Prince Albert, Newton
Wonder, and Bramley's Seedling If we have
named too many dessert varieties you may omit
those marked with an asterisk.

Grubs: W.B.S. The grub you send is the larva
of the common cockchafer, and it is very in-
jurious to vegetation.

Names of Fruits : Noel, i, Claygate Pearmain ;
2, Round Winter Nonsuch ; 3, Annie Elizabeth ;
4, Gascoyne's Scarlet Seedling.

Names of Plants: F. T. Boiirtoii. i, Pinus,
probably ponderosa ; 2, 3, 4, 6, all dwarf forms
of Picea excelsa (such as ericoides, Clan-
brassiliana, &c.) ; 5, probably Picea orientalis.

—F. F. Galax aphylla— .'I. /. C. Garrya
elliptica. — F. S. i, an Evergreen Oak of which
we will give you the true name next week ; 2,
Juniperus sinensis ; 3, Azara integrifolia. — AV.r.
We do not undertake to name varieties of
Roses ; send to some Rose grower who will
piobably have them in his collection. The
other specimen is a Viburnum, probably V.
Sandankwa as far as we can tell without flowers.
— Biibid. Acacia Farnesiana. — W. L. i, Cym-
bidium eburneum, it varies in the character of
the purple spotting on the lip ; 2, Stauropsis
gigantea, often called Vanda gigantea. — C. S.
Rhododendron Veitchii and Adiantum peru-
vianum. — A. E. B. i, send when in flower;
2, Ruscue Hypophyllum; 3, Cornus Mas; 4,
Elajagnus pungens variegata ; 5, Andromeda
floribunda ; 6, Genista next week.

Peaches : H. W . Tlie branches are attacked by
a Botrytis. Keep the house as well ventilated
as possible without causing injury to the trees.
Spray with potassium sulphide, one ounce to
three gallons of water.

Pyrus japonica injured: A.G.S. Probably the
effect of frost on the young growth. Cut the
shrubs hard back. As they get established they
will become more hardy.

Rose Mildew: H. G. K. The shoots are covered
with the spawn of a Rose mildew which has
killed the bark. You can do nothing but cut
away and burn the affected shoots and spray
the healthy ones with liver of sulphur dissolved
in water in the proportion of i oz. of the sulphur
to 2 gallons of water.

Superphosph.ate of Lime : J. T. and S. A very
light dressing of this manure would not be in-
jurious to freshly-planted Carnations provided
none is thrown over the leaves, which are liable
to be burned if so treated. At the same time,
and assuming that the ground was properly
prepared before planting was done, such manure
is not yet required. Superphosphate may be
applied later on if it is thought to be desirable,
especially if lime and phosphates are somewhat
lacking in the soil, but its application will not
kill the wireworms.

Temperatures in Plant Culture : C. E. The
various temperatures mentioned in the Calendar
for " Plants Under Glass," which appeared in
the issue for January 6, included the rise by
day caused by sunshine. The maximums then
given for each house should not be exceeded at
present. As the growing season advances you
may quite safely increase each week very
slightly the degree of atmospheric temperatures
at night, and also by day, till the maximum
summer temperatures are reached. The maxi-
mum day temperature should be maintained
until sunset, and from this point the atmosphere
should very gradually become cooler untd the
minimum is reached. Guard strictly against
high temperatures during the night. The
atmospheric temperature of the stove during
the summer months should range from 70° to
80°. that of the i ntermediate house from 65° to 70",
and of the conservatory from 60° to 68°, allowing
a rise by sunshine of from 5° to io° in each
house, and making use of the blinds and venti-
lators to regulate the warmth of the atmosphere
in the houses as much as possible. If a varied
collection of plants is grown in the stove the
temperature even now may be allowed to run
up to So" with sun-heat when closing the house.
If Ixoras, Dipladenias, and Codijeums are the
principal inmates 10" to 15" more heat will be
an advantage.
Vines: /. G. We can form no definite opinion
from the specimens you send. As the disease
progresses send us further shoots.
Violets Diseased : /. /. 5. Yes, it is the same
disease as that described on p. 80 in answer
to W. B. .
Weed Killer : H. 0. F. Most weed killers are
very poisonous. If you want something th:;t
is not so poisonous you had better apply common
salt which is effective, and if not sprinkled on
Box or other living edge plant will do no injury.

Communications Received.— H. S. — G. D.— D. R. W.—
H. H. S.— G. H. W.-G. M.— Irish Gardening— .\. G.—
J. D., much obliged, no vacancy— Gauntlett — Redruth —
W. C. G. L.— V. H. L.— R. L. C— L. L.— T. C.— G. S.—
L. G., Brussels (Your letter shall be forwarded to the So-
ciety).—J. K. Budde, Utrecht— C. W. S.— C. S. & Co.—
M. 6., Middelburg (Sorry we have not the description yon
require)- A. H. W.— E. M.— W. H. C— F. W. G.— H. W.
— T. A. S.— S. W. P.— D. R. W.— S. C— F. L — F. W. 1'.
— W. S. E. C— Reader— H. H. Smith— A. P. B.— R. A.—
Anxious - M. M. N.— G. W.— G. T.

March 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

161

THE

^Hibcncrs'CbionicIc

No. 1,003.— SATURDAY, March 17, 1906.

Alpine garden, the

American methods of
conducting business

Arundinaria nobilis,
flowering

Chinese note - book,
leaves from my

Ccelogyne cristata, a
fine plant of ...

Colonial note —

Seeds packed for the
Colonies

Coreopsis Grantii, a
new species from
Uganda.

Cultural memoranda —
Anthuriums ..
Eupatoriums

Examinations in horti-
culture...

l-'loral decorations, the
forthcoming exhibi-
tion of

Foreign Correspondence

French market garden-
ing at Evesham, a

CONTENTS.

165

173

164

168

173

Gifrdening for the people 161

Grafting vines 176

Hawfinches and Peas ... 173
Hydrocyanic acid gas,

fumigating with ... 172

Irises, some bulbous ... 171

*' Irish Gardening " ... 169

Kew notes 172

Kew Palace 169

London Markets and

their supplies 162

Manuring Potatos ... 170
Mendeliau laws of in-
heritance, the 169

Narcissus, a new race of 169
Nitrogen supply of

plants, the , 170

Norman, George, the late 172

Nursery note —

The Carlisle Nursery
Obituary-
Allen James

Milner, H. E

Newbigging, T. Ken-
nedy

Sowerby, William ..
Odontoglossum x Fow-

lerianum

Orchid notes and glean-
ings—
Dendrobiums at

Woodhatch

Dictionuaire Icono-
graphiqus des Or-

chidees

Peaches and Nectarines,

raising

P h o t i n i a serrulata
flowering in the open
Plants, new or note-
worthy—
Antburium Forgeti ...
Post-cards, nature-
printed

Rhododendron parvi-

folium

Rhododendron precox
Societies —

Brussels

Coventry Chrysanthe-
mum and Floricul-

tural

Nat. Fruit - Growers'

Federation

Royal Horticultural...
{Scientific Committee)
Shropshire Horticul-
tural

United Horticultural

Benefit & Provident

Tomato culture

170

175
175

175
175

163

1€3

164
169
173

101

169

164
172

175
169
173

175

174
170

Wetk's Work, the 166, 167

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Cvreopsis Grantii, a new species from Uganda 162

Xew Palace as seen fronl the broad walk, Kew. (Sup-
plementary Illustration.)

Odontoglossum v. Fowlerianum 163

Rhododendron parvifollum flowering in Edinburgh
Botanic Garden 164, 165

GARDENING FOR THE PEOPLE.

iT is gLiierally adniiUcd that one means of
counteracting the tovvnward trend of
the countryman and his family is to
endeavour to induce him to retrace
his steps, if that be possible, and take up
rural occupations of various sorts. Amongst
those that hold out the greatest amount of
promise for him and his is the congenial
matter of vegetable and fruit cultivation on
small holdings. Not everyone has the
necessary knowledge and skill, still there are
various agencies at hand, ready and desirous
of affording the one and teaching the other.
Then there comes the important question,
" What shall he cultivate ? " A mere glance
at the list of imported products, published in
the Government Reports, and often copied
into this and other journals, seems to
indicate numerous vegetables and fruits
which can be grown in this country equally
well as regards size, appearance and quality
as the imported productions with which many
of our towns are now supplied. Our own
growers living on the spot, or within a com-
paratively short distance, can surely under-
sell the vendor of imported stuff, handicapped
as is the latter by transit costs by sea and
land, and the middleman's charges, these,
of course, being reckoned in to the retail
customer. Is there any need for a native of

this country to buy his first Blackcurrants
from the Dutch grower, or his unripe Goose-
berries for tarts and puddings from the same
source, these growing just as well and just
as abundantly on our own soil, and as early,
if not more so, in the warmer counties?

How many cottage walls are simply
wasted ? Few persons seem to realise the
potential wealth in these warm surfaces when
utilised for cultivating the choicer varieties
of Pears, Figs, Grapes, as the Black Cluster,
the Parsley leaved, and other Sweetwater
varieties — all things easy to grow and make
productive. How few persons in the small
towns and villages know of the flavour and
lusciousness of the Nectarine, Peach, and
Apricot, and yet these fruit trees are not more
difficult to prune and train than a Gloire de
Dijon Rose. Moreover, the trees are sold at
prices from 2S. 6d. to 5s. by the nurseryman.
It is cause for wonder that the " trade " do
not press the cultivation of the finest kinds
of fruits on their neighbours possessing small
gardens and available walls ; the warmer
aspects for those already named, and the
colder ones for May Duke, Morello, and
Belle Magnifique Cherries, all good bot-
tling fruits, and for cooking purposes. The
peripatetic County Council lecturers might do
worse than teach country girls, as well as
men, how to prune, nail, and tie fruit trees.
They are now taught to cook in many of the
siJhools, why should they not be taught how
some of the things that they use in the cook-
ery classes are cultivated? Red and white
Currants, Gooseberries for gathering in the
green state, and also ripe, should receive at-
tention from small holders. Raspberries are
a paying crop everywhere in this country,
either as a dessert fruit, gathered adhering
to the stalk, or detached if for preserving as
jam, and making Raspberry vinegar, a com-
modity which even in the country districts is
not readily to be obtained at a moderate
price. The Apricot ripens its fruit in
most parts of England and southern
Scotland, but singularly its cultivation is
not so widely spread as it should be,
at the least in gardens other than those
of the gentry. Even in far away North-
umberland, certain varieties, such as the
Moorpark, and the early form of it ; the
Royal, a rich, juicy, and hardy variety, and
Hemskerk succeed on south aspects, fruiting
freely if some kind of light protection against
the sun's rays be afforded early in February.
Failing this screen the blossoms open very
early and often get destroyed by frost. The
most appropriate covering is that afforded by
the flat branches of Balm of Gilead or com-
mon Spruce Fir, tacked sparingly to the wall,
their needles falling off as the sunshine in-
creases with the season, until, at the period
when the fruits are of the size of Horsebeans,
the Fir branches are almost bare. The
Apricot affords the best return in soils
abounding in lime, as in the counties of
Susse.K, Surrey, Kent, Berks, Oxford, Wilts.
In those soils that are poor in lime it can
be readily afforded in the form of lime rubble
and old plaster, and mixed intimately with
the staple or in the compost in which the trees
are planted.

Many persons with available walls facing to
the south, west, east, and even north, may
elect to cultivate Pears, good fruits of which
are not too common in country places, and if
these are worked on the Quince, on which
stock many varieties produce good crops, the
holder will not have long to wait for returns
from his venture. He will be wise if his

selection consists of early and midseason
varieties, these ripening on the trees or soon
after being gathered. In most parts these
ripen on bushes as well as on wall trees. The
following names are given in the order of
ripening; Citron des Carmes, for July; Jar-
gonelle, a large, favourite Pear, good on Pear
or Quince stock ; Beurre Giffard, Clapp's
Favourite, a handsome Pear of great excel-
lence, for August; Williams' Bon Chretien, a
well-known variety, highly perfumed and
melting; Buerr^ d'Amanlis, a capital variety
for a wall, large and melting ; B. Superfin, a
delicious melting Pear; and Autumn Nelis,
for September. For cultivation by those
having storage room, the following may be
recommended : Louise Bonne of Jersey,
Jersey Gratioli, Fondante d'Automne, Beurr6
Hardy, B. d'Aremberg, Brown Beurre, Doy-
enne Boussoch, Marie Louise, one of the best ;
Comte de Lamy, Beurre Bosc, Baronne
de Melo, Glout Morceau, Doyennd du Cornice,
Beurre d'Anjou, Winter Nelis, Nouvelle Ful-
vie, Easter Beurri5, and Beurr6 Ranee, are
good late ripening Pears. The list might be
greatly increased, but it is sufficiently lengthy
for our purpose, and not many first-class var-
ieties have been omitted. Baking and
stewing Pears should be grown generally by
cottagers, for, besides being palatable addi-
tions to their winter fare, the fruits are al-
ways saleable in the towns. Of these may
be mentioned Catillac, Summer Compote,
Uvedale's St. Germains, and Winter
Orange. A farming man, woodman, or
general labourer renting on lease an acre or
two of land of fairly good quality, by work-
ing on odd days when his employer did not
need his services, and for an hour or two in
the evening, with perhaps the assistance of
his boys and big girls in doing the lighter
sorts of work, would be able to add materi-
ally to his income, and increase the comfort
and well-being of the family. With crops of
Potatos, Parsnips, Carrots, Onions, Leeks,
Haricot Beans, Dwarf Peas, Cabbages and
Kales, and with a pig or two killed annually
and turned into bacon, and several goats to
afford milk, and occasionally a kid for the
table, the man would be enabled to look with
equanimity on his lot during the seasons
when employment at his calling was not too
regular. He should be encouraged to take
up bee-keeping, for honey and bees-wax, al-
ways in demand at fair prices, and the pro-
pagation of fruit bushes for sale in his neigh-
bourhood should come within the scope of
his labours. Countryrnan.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

ANTHURIUM FORGETI, N. E. BROWN
(/V. St.).

The novelty now described is a handsome
foliage plant allied to the well-known A. crystal-
linum, but differing first in its much smaller
size, since it is stated to attain only to about one
quarter of the size of A. crystallinum, and
secondly by its constantly peltate, entire leaves,
which are of a beautiful rich, deep green, over-
spread with a velvety sheen, and are exceedingly
pleasing to the eye. The veins are also fewer,
with a somewhat different curvature, and are
less frosted-white than in A. crystallinum.
Messrs. Sander & Sons have introduced a large
stock of A. Forgeti from Columbia, where
it was discovered in the province of Cun-
dinamarca by their collector, Monsieur
Forget. They inform me that the plant
is quite constant in its peltate, entire

Ifi2

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 190C.

leaves, and that they have never observed any
approach to a lobing or a sinus at the base of
the leaves on any of their plants. The follow-
ing is a description of this new species.

Stem short, erect, freely rooting, the whole
of the plant seen, excluding the peduncle and
spadix, being about 15 inches high. Leaves
closely placed, glabrous ; petiole erect, 6-10
inches long, including the geniculus, which is
5-6 lines long, quite terete, without a groove
down the face, sheathing at the base,
green ; blade drooping, 10-14 inches long,
6-9 , inches broad ; peltate, elliptic-ovate,
shortly acuminate, quite entire and broadly
rounded- at the base, or but faintly emar-
ginate, not in the least cordate or notched,
of a rich and pleasing deep green, overspread
with a velvety sheen, with very pale green
nerves and primary veins, which often have a
frosted-white border ; underside pale green, some,
times with a faint purplish hue ; primary nerves
(including the midrib) 6-7, all radiating from the
insertion of the petiole, prominent on the upper
side, very slightly so beneath ; when there are

6, one is directed straight back in a line with
the midrib, forking about an inch fiom the mar-
gin of the leaf into two branches (when there are

7, this backwardly directed nerve is divided to
the base into two) which sweep in bold curves
out to the margins below the middle of the leaf ;
the lowest pair are first directed backwards in a
widely-spreading manner, then curve forward
out to the margin, and become excurrent near the
apex of the leaf ; the inner pair are widely
ascending, spreading at the base, then curve, and
form a slightly looped nerve about J-l distant
from the margin at the lower half, and becoming
excurrent at the apex ; the midrib gives out three
or four primary veins on each side, which unite
and form loops with the inner pair of nerves.
Peduncle rising to about twice the height of the
leaves, 1-1-2 feet long, terete, glabrous, green.
Spathe 4-6 inches long, J-j inch broad, broadly
linear or strap-shaped, acuminate, amplexicaul
or shortly decurrent at the base, spreading,
glabrous, green. Spadix about 6 inches long,
^ inch thick at the base, terete, gradually taper-
ing to the obtuse apex, ochreous yellow, with a
wax-like shining surface. Flowers 4-angled,
about 1 line in diameter. Ovary green at the
top, two-celled; stigma se.ssile very small.
N. E. Brown.

COREOPSIS GRANTII.

A Coreopsis from tropical Africa, with char-
acters that are likely to recommend it to gardeners,
is represented in the illustration at Fig. 64, which
has been prepared from a photograph of a plant in
the Kew collection, where it flowered for the first
time in February. It was raised from seeds collected
in Uganda by Mr. M. T. Dawe, who described it as
"a good thing." Some plants of it were tried in a
border outside last summer, and although they
grew freely, they did not flower before the frost
killed them. Others that were kept in pots and
received the protection of a greenhouse formed
compact leafy bushes about 2 feet high, with
elegant dark green, bipinnate foliage, and they
flowered freely last month. The flowers are about
2 inches in diameter, and of a bright, pleasing
shade of yellow. They are not equal in beauty to
those of C. grandiflora or C. lanceolata, but the
habit of the plant and its winter-flowering char-
acter are its recommendations for the garden. We
are not yet able to say if it is a perennial.

C. Grantii was discovered in Nile-land by Speke
and Grant during their expedition in 1860-3 to the
sources of the Nile. According to Mr. Dawe it
flowers in December in Uganda. There are dried
specimens at Kew of a big-flowered, beautiful
species of Coreopsis named speciosa, which was
found in. Angola by Welwitch, and again quite
recently by Sir Evan James in Uganda. It ought
to be a good garden plant. Perhaps Mr. Dawe or
his assistant can obtain it for us. IF. If.

THE LONDON MARKETS AND
THEIK SUPPLIES.

(Continued rom page 15.)
COVENT GARDEN.
Few markets concerned with garden produce
possess a fraction of the interest with which
Covent Garden is invested, and in many re-
spects it is probably one of the most remarkable
in the world. In some features it is surpassed
by the great Parisian market, les Halles Cen-
trales, esoeciallv in May, when the wonderful

be no question that the authorities, namely, the
officials who represent the Duke of Bedford,
have striven earnestly not only to reriiove the
reproach which long rested upon it from a
sanitary point of view, but also to facilitate the
inner working. In the former they succeeded ;
in the latter they have been confronted with
enormous difficulties, though many useful regu-
lations have been introduced to aid the object
in view. The whole market is cramped by its
surroundings, narrow streets, and totally inade-
quate standing space for sellers and buyers. At

. — ^

«.

^^

w' "^/S:

w^>H^^H

^^^^^^^^^^^lati/^E^B^' \^JBb

""^^rnKW^^^

,*i-.W.

m^^m

^H^H

[Photo by E.J. Wallis.
Fig. 04. — COREOPSIS grantii, a new species from Uganda; flowers 2 inches

IN diameter ; COLOUR, YELLOW,

supply of Asparagus at the latter is probably
unique. But to comprehend the business trans-
acted in the London market, a good deal more
than a cursory view or a superficial acquaintance
is essential. It is somewhat like the great
metropolis it so largely supplies, disappointing
to many strangers on a first inspection, and it
is only by prolonged experience that an ade-
quate idea can be formed of Britain's greatest
city, or of its greatest market.

Since the days when Punch stigmatised Covent
Garden as "Mud-salad Market," considerable
improvements have been effected, and there can

busy periods of the year the streets, from the
Strand on the south to Long Acre on the north,
are packed with vehicles in early morning, and
some hours often elapse before they can obtain
their supplies. No one but the official porters
may remove goods from the market premises to
the carts and vans of the retailing fruiterers
and greengrocers, and scores of men with heavy
head-loads of boxes or baskets can be seen
plunging up and down the streets shouting the
nan-jes of the purchasers they are trying to find.
A stranger might imagine that there must bo
endless confusion with numberle-ss wron^j

Makch 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

deliveries, and that night would arrive before the
buyers could obtain their goods. Yet in a few
hours all are cleared away, the streets around
the market are hose-washed and cleansed, and
the bustle has subsided to the ordinary daily
routine. To all quarters of a gigantic city,
fruits, flowerp, and vegetables for millions of
people have been conveyed by a vast array of
vehicles ranging from the imposing motor
wagons of the leading stores to the humble
costermongers' barrows, which supply [he mul-
titude in the densest centres of population. It
is a wonderful business altogether, and an early
morning visit te Covent Garden, especially in
the spring and summer months, when the flower
market is at its best, affords one of the most
interesting of London's characteristic spectacles.

As a depot or mart for the highest quality
fruit, vegetables, and flowers, Covent tiarden
stands unrivalled, and it is the reputation in
this respect which brings so many sellers and
buyers together within its narrow limits. For
the best produce substantial prices are almost
always obtainable, for fashionable novelties, or
for anything of exceptional merit, prices which
;ippear fabulous are sjcured. When Laxton's
Koyal Sovereign Strawberry was under trial be-
fore it had reached the public, a small con-
signment of fruits from the open ground was
sent as samples to a Covent Garden salesman.
The receipt was acknowledged by a telegram,
requesting an immediate supply of as large a
quantity as possible for a special function at
10s. per lb. The yield of a small plot of out-
door plants at this rate was sufficient to buy the
land many times over. That is only one ex-
ample, and though the days are long past when
choice Grapes were sold at 15s. to 20s. per lb.,
I'incapples at 21s. each, and Pears at 10s. 6d.
each, astonishing prices are still often obtained
for special products extra early, or of unusual
jpiality.

Of course, tli^ market is subject to the same
disadvantages as all others, occasional periods
I if " glut," usually following those when good
prices have ruled, and then even high quality
goods have to share in the depression of value,
lint it is rare that the market is overstocked
with first-class produce during the time the
London season lasts — mainly the spring months
lip to June or July. ' The principal cause of
rapid falls in prices is excessive supplies of
second or third-rate samples, or, in the case of
fruits, thoso which ar3 indifferently packed, or
not efficiently graded. Growers cannot make a
greater mistake than to send such produce to
Covent Garden ; there are other centres where
the demand is considerable for low-priced fruit
and vegetables, and we have known many cases
where the prices realised for such grades have
been materially better at Stratford, Spitalfields,
or the Borough, than for the same quality at
Covent Garden. The leading salesmen do not
want to be troubled with goods which their
regular customers will not buy at any price, and
we have known whole consignments transferred
to costermongers at the end of the market for
]irices which did not pay the carriage to Lon-
don when the salesman had deducted his
charges. An amateur grower, or some inexperi-
enced person, then writes a letter to the daily
papers, and cites his case a? an example of the
impossibility of making land cultivation pay.

AVe are acquainted with growers and retailers
^vho have tried all the London markets, but who
in the course of 40 or 50 years' experience have
found Covent Garden invariably superior in all
>?spects. But then the former are cultivators
who do not believe in wasting time, space, and
money over inferior produce ; nothing short of
the best results the most skilful cultivation can
produce will s-atisfy them. The buyers at Covent
Garden are those who have to provide wealthy

and exacting customers with the highest quality
procurable. For those two classes Covent Gar-
den is an ideal market, and if the inferior pro-
duce which is not required there could only be
excluded, the congestion, which is commonly a
most distressing feature during the hours of
business, would be considerably diminished.
7?. Lewis Castle.

(To be continued.)

ODONTOGLOSSUM x FOWLER-
IAN UM.

At the meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, held on the 6th inst., much interest
was excited by the hybrid Orchid illustrated at
fig- ^5- The flowers were attractive by reason of
their unusually rich colouring, for, as will be seen,
the petals and sepals are very narrow, and in form,
therefore, the flowers are not equal to many
others. But the dense spotting of dark purple, and
the rosy purple colour on the tips and margins of

the beautiful floral scene there is now at Wood-
hatch. The front stage also contains a large
number of smaller plants in bloom, which com-
prise for the most part the newer and rarer
varieties. The larger plants on the back stage
average from 2 feet to 4J feet in height from the
rim of the pots, and have from 5 to 12 flowering
growths, some of which carry from 40 to 50
flowers each, many of the pseudo-bulbs produc-
ing a mass of bloom extending over 2 feet in
length. A specimen of D. Virgil, which was
raised here, has between 400 and 500 flowers,
and is an indication of what may be done by
good culture. D. Edithse superbum, D. Cybele
nobilior, D. Ainsworthii picturatum, D. splen-
didissimum grandiflorum, D. nobile nobilius,
D. Euryalus var. Apollo grandiflorum, etc., al.so
form masses of bloom. D. splendidissimuni
var. Mrs. Haywood is conspicuous and attrac-
tive, its flowers being of large size and heavily
marked with purple-lilac colour, with a dark
maroon blotch on the lip. D. Ainsworthii
Woodhatch variety is also verj' fine. The col-

■- AR.gjc Kf^" f-i -

^-

Fig. 65.-

D.4RK PI!

-ODONTOGLOSSUM FOWLERI.\NUM ; FLOWERS SPOTTED WITH
PLF. COLOUR, AND HAVING THE SEPALS AND PETALS TIPFliD
AND MARGINED WITH ROSE PURPLE.

petals and sepals are in e\ cry respect noteworthy.
The long blade of the lip is also of rosy purple
colour, but the base and callus are yellow. The
hybrid is from a cross between O. Rossi rubescens
and O. cirrosum, and it was shown by Messrs.
F. Sander & Sons.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

DENDROBIUMS AT WOODHATCH.
A VISIT to Woodhatch, Reigate, the residence
of Mrs. Haywood, at any time of the year is
interesting. There is always something for the
studious to learn, and something delightful to
observe. The chief feature at the present time
are the Dendrobiums, which are uncommonly
well cultivated and exceedingly floriferous. The
collection is remarkable for the vigorous, well
developed plants of some of the most beautiful
hj'brids in cultivation. Imagine a rather lofty
house, with a lean-to roof facing to the south
and more than CO feet in length, the back stage
between 5 feet and 6 feet wide, upon which are
arranged about sixty specimen plants covered
with bloom, and a general idea will bo had of

lection comprises nearly all of the best varieties
of the D. melanodiscus crosses, including the
new hybrids raised by Mr. Salter as D. m.
Salteri, D. m. gloriosum, D. m. Sunray, D. m.
giganteum, also the Burford hybrids as D.
Luna, D. pallens, D. Rainbow, D. Juno, etc.
The last-named variety as a rule is not a pro-
fuse bloomer ; the flowering nodes oftentimes
produce young plants instead of bloom, but here
there are plants carrying over a score of richly-
coloured flowers. All of the varieties enumer-
ated are in bloom, together with such well-
known hybrids as D. Schneiderianum, the sweet-
scented D. endocharis, D. Ainsworthii, D.
Cassiope, D. Wiganiae ; also some fine varieties
of D. nobile as Ballianum, Amesiaj, and others.
Suspended from the roof is a pretty plant of
the old D. crepidatum, with 5 pendulous
growths all laden with white and j'ellow
flowers. A fine plant of D. fimbriatum is also
in bloom, one of the racemes producing two
lateral branches with several flowers on each.
This charming display of bloom is well worthy
of the inspection of anyone having a love for
beautiful flowers, and especially by those who
have an interest in Dendrobiums and their cul-
ture. W. H. White, Burford, March 0.

164

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1903.

"DICTIONNAIRE ICONOGRAPHIQUE DES
ORCHIDEES."

The idsue of this publication for January, 1906,
is the first of the eighth series, and eight of the
subjects illustrated and described are well-known
species ; the other five are hybrids.

Barkeria spcctabilis commences the genus Bar-
keria, which is kept distinct from Epidendrum,
under which it is generally included. A pretty
cool-house species, with white flowers tinged with
rose and spotted with purple on the lip and
column. Native of Mexico and Guatemala. The
plant illustrated was imported by MM. J Van
de Putte, of Ledeberg, Ghent.

Catllcya Marie Heiiriette de Wavrin (Rex x Lod-
digesii). — Raised by M. De Geeste in the gardens
of the Marquis De Wavrin. Flowers blush -
white, with yellow and purple front to the lip,
which is veined as in Cattleya Rex. It was given
an Award of Merit at the Royal Horticultural
Society, October 24, 1905.

Cattleya triumphans, var. CIi. Maroii. — The ori-
ginal, from a cross between C. Dowiana aurea
and C. Rex, flowered with Messrs. Sander in
1904; the variety illustrated, with M. Ch. Maron,
Brunoy, France. Flowers yellow, and much re-
sembling C. D. aurea, but with reddish-crimson
lip bearing numerous yellowish lines and veining
as seen in C. Rex.

Cymbidium sinente. — One of the oldest species.
Inflorescence erect, flowers purplish-brown with
yellow front to the lip.

Cypripedium Fairrieanum. — A pretty variety
flowered by M. Ginot, St. Etienne, Loire (gr. J.
W. Dard) is figured, but in the accompanying
note nothing new is revealed.

Epidendrum aromaticum. — .\ \-ery old species,
with whitish, fragrant flowers, with purple mark-
ings on the lip.

Lulia De Geestiaiia Qon^heana. x flava). — Raised
in the gardens of M. le Marquis de Wavrin, and
flowered in four years from the time the cross was
made. Flowers formed like those of L. Jongheana :
white, with crimped, yellow lip.

Lalia Eugene BouUet. — The result of a cross
between L^elia harpophylla and Brassavola glauca,
and consequently a Brasso-Laelia. Flowers yellow,
with dark red lines at the base of the lip.

Stanhopca oculata. — Sepals and petals yellowish,
spotted with purple. Lip white, with a dark
purple blotch at the base.

Leelio-Cattleya Ernesti (C. Percivaliana X L.
flava). — Raised by M. Ch. Maron. A pretty
yellow flower with reddish-purple markings on the
lip.

Lycaste Deppei. — A well-known, free-flowering
species with greenish sepals spotted with red-
brown. The petals are white, and the lip yellow
marked with crimson spots.

Odontoglossum eordatum. — Flowers yellowish,
barred and spotted with red-brown ; lip white
with reddish markings.

Oncidium graminifolium. — Sepals and petals
greenish, heavily marked with chocolate colour;
lip light yellow. Native of Mexico and Guate-
mala, the specimen figured having been imported
from the latter country by MM. Van de Putte
&Co.

It is pleasing to see that such fine old species
are still commanding attention and considered
worthy of illustration.

RHODODENDRON PARVIFOLIUM

This species (by some considered synonymous
with R. Anthopogon) is an excellent little plant for
the filling of small beds or for planting in the rock
garden, as here, where it fills a small recess of
about three yards in length at the base of a per-
pendicular piece of rock-work devoted principally
to the Callunas.

It grows about eighteen inches or less in height,

and is of a rather straggling habit, the stems
being wiry. We find it a good plan to peg
down these wiry stems and cover them with a
little peaty soil, in which they soon make roots.
By this process a well-covered bed is soon
obtained.

Thespecies isclosely allied to R. lapponicum and
to R. dauricum. From the first it is distinguished
by its taller habit, and by the filaments of the
stamens being hairy at their base, while from the
latter species it differs in its evergreen character.

It is the earliest of the Rhododendrons to bloom
here, commencing about the latter end of Decem-
ber, while flowers may still be found upon the
plants at the end of February. In the colour of
the flower it resembles R. dauricum, and, like
that species, it is liable to be injured by frost,
but a welcome display is sometimes secured if the
weather is favourable. It is very amenable to
cultivation, and, indeed, seems to develop a
vigour not obtained in its native habitat, if we
may judge by the imported plants. The plants
delight in a peaty soil, like others of the genus.

I am indebted to Professor Balfour for the
use of the photographs. if. L. Harrow, Royal
Botanic Garden, Edinburgh.

fact, and are now sending out to the tropics seeds
properly protected against climate, insects, and
fungi, which will certainly replace the old style
of paper packets. Some merchants do not appear
to understand that a buyer of thirty years' tropical
experience can possibly know what he wants.
Trade is obtained by supplying to the buyer
what he wants, and not with what the British
merchant thinks is good for him. Considerable
evidence on seed packing is being collected,
and I shall be happy to forward it as
soon as ready. It is sufficient at present to
justify the placing of orders with those who
will gi\'e attention to a buyer's wants. /. H.
Hart^ Botanical Department, T rinidad.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

THE GULF STATES AND THE
SARRACENIAS.
I HAD a most instructive trip of nearly 3,000
miles during the past summer, circling round all the
Gulf States, and from there gradually northward
to some of my old Dionaea haunts near Wilming-
ton. Some of my results have been of special

Fig. 66. — rhododendron parvifolium, flowering in Edinburgh botanic garden.

COLONIAL NOTE.

SEED PACKING.
The letter on seed packing in your issue for
January 20, 1906, is one of the most unsatis-
factory pieces of evidence which it has ever been
my lot to discuss. We recognise the effort
made, and the growth of the seeds, but the re-
sult could easily have been anticipated ; in fact
there is nothing improbable in the seeds growing
on a single occasion, but the experience of men
longer in the tropics is, that unless seeds are
sent in something more than ordinary
paper packets, they will be found to " suc-
cumb" to " severe" attack. On the other
hand, there is abundant evidence that
seeds, which formerly could not be used to
advantage in the tropics, can, when properly
sealed in dry air, be kept for a considerable
length of time and maintain undiminished
vitality, while if left in paper packets for even
short periods they become utterly useless.
Several eminent seed firms have recognised the

interest, and could I have transported them to
great Savannahs in Mississippi, where the genuine
Sarracenia Catesbaei covered an area thickly for
a length of 7J miles, I am sure your readers'
mouths would have watered. Equally so in
southern Alabama, where thousands of acres
waved crimson and white with continuous expanses
of Sarracenia Drummondi, paved at the base of the
myriad pitchers with millions of plants of S. psit-
tacina, while S. flava, S. purpurea, and S. rubra
helped to vary the landscape. Here I first got
four lots of genuine wild hybrids — crosses of
S. Drummondi x S. flava (magnificent), of S.
Drummondi X S. purpurea, and of S. flava X S.
purpurea. But from the hybrid point of view my
great and surpassing experience was at a delightful
but very malarial spot — Ponce de Leon — where in
a day's botanising of about 17 miles I encountered
ny genuine hybrids of Sarracenia flava X S. pur-
purea, of which I have a fine lot now coming into
flower in our Sarracenia house Curiously enough
this is undoubtedly the plant that Elliott had
before him when he described S. Catesbaei, as a

March 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

165

recent inspection of the type specimen in the
Charleston Museum shows. What I have called
his S. Catesbaei — and which so far as his descrip-
tion goes could not be distinguished — seems to be
wholly restricted to the Gulf States and west of
the Alabama river. John M. Miicfarlaiw.

ARIZONA.

We concluded to step off the train at Tucson in
Southern Arizona, and to re-explore the noble range
of Santa Catalina mountains.

Sickness interfered often with our work, and we
had to confine ourselves to obtaining infor-
mation in regard to little known regions and
the best ways to reach them on future trips.

Of course the Oaks were the most numerous and
accessible trees, and we secured many specimens —
not yet fully determined. Of Pines we found
two forms of P. Montezumae, one of them with
cones nearly a foot long : others were the beautiful
and widely disseminated pseudo-strobus, the Teo-
cote, the leiophylla. the oocarpa, the Hartwegi in
two forms, and one not yet determined for want of
sufficient material. We also collected specimens
of the sacred and only Abies of the Republic,
A. religiosa, several Taxodiums, Cypresses and
Junipers, with a host of Acacia, Mimosa and other
pod-plants so abundant in tropical countries.

Arriving home as late as Christmas, we have
had much to do of other business, while our
collections have had to wait. /. G. Lcmmon, Oali-
lands, California.

J.\PAN.
A New Genus of Conifers.

I enclose a curious specimen of Conifer which
is found on Morrison, the highest peak in Formosa.
As far as my knowledge extends, this does not
seem to belong to any described genus. I think
this will be a new genus, just intermediate between
Cunninghamia and Cryptomeria. The cones are
very much like those of Cunninghamia, while its
vegetative parts bear most resemblance to Crypto-
meria. I have named this new plant " Tai-
wanites," as tne plant comes from the island of
Formosa. I hope you will be so kind as to ex-
amine this species and to let me know your opinion
about it. I am going to publish this genus in the
Botanical Magazine of Tokyo. I shall be. very
glad to send you my paper about this new genus
and its affinity to other genera (with diagnosis and
a plate) if this genus should fortunately be recog-
nised by an authority like you. B. Hayata,
Botanical Institute, Science College, University of
Tokyo.

[We hope Prof. Hayata will be able to send us
seeds of this very interesting plant, which would
be a great addition to our collections, and possibly,
owing to the elevation at which it grows, hardy in
the warmer parts of the;ie islands. The technical
description of this new Conifer, which has the
foliage of an Athrotaxis and the cone of a Tsuga,
will, at Prof. Hayata's request, be laid before the
Linnean Society. — Ed.]

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

SAXIFRAGA FERDIN.VNDI COBURGII.

This plant is undoubtedly one of the gems
among the early flowering members of this inter-
esting and beautiful genus. Dwarf, even diminu-
tive in growth, the species at once strongly appeals
to all who take delight in choice, early flowering
plants. The minute rosettes of leaves approach
somewhat to S. aretioides primulina, but with a
pronounced incrustation almost equal to that of
S. cosia. The peduncles are not more than one
inch in height, 2-3 flowered, the half-inch wide
blossoms coloured a shade of greenish yellow. In
size the blossoms are not unlike the form of
S. aretioides above-named, but in the deeper yellow
colour they are quite distinct. This extremely

rare species comes from Macedonia, and is an
ideal subject for pot culture in sandy loam.

SAXIFRAGA SCARDICA.

In the issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle for Feb-
ruary 10, p. 8g, a quotation from the Botanical
Magazine, having reference to the above, stated
that " it may. be expected to supersede, to some
extent, the well-known S. Burseriana, as it is more
showy and stands damp weather better." As
these two species rarely flower at the same time in
the open, one can hardly imagine the two in com-
petition. S. Boydii alba is more often in flower at
the same time as Burser's Saxifrage, and, opening
its blossoms like this species quite close upon the
tuft, suffers from rain and frost. S. scardica is one
of the most beautiful of later flowering species, and
in stature and flowering would be best compared
to S. Boryi and S. marginata, all white flowering
forms and very beautiful. E. Jenkins.

Fig. 67. — single plant of rhododendron
parvifolium.

(For text see page 164.)

GALANTHUS NIVALIS FLAVESCENS.
Gal.\nthus nivalis flavescens is one of the few
of what are popularly called "yellow" Snow-
drops, although the segments of the fiower are
not yellow, but white, and the only portions
which are yellow are the ovary, the markings of
the inner segments, and the stems themselves,
which are moce yellow than green. Of the three
or so varieties which prove constant in colour-
ing, the best and most vigorous is that known
as flavescens, which was found in a cottage gar-
den in Northumberland some sixteen or seven-
teen years ago by Mr. W. B. Boyd, of Faldon-
side, Melrose. It is both larger and brighter than
lutescens, and, as it is apparently a better " doer "
in most gardens, it will likely grow in favour,
although much scarcer at present than the
smaller 3fellow variety. I have grown the variety
for several years, but it seems to prefer the
stronger soil of my present to the more peaty
one of my former garden, and this season it is

more vigorous than I have seen it before. Some
people are sceptical as to the beauty of these
flowers with yellow markings until they see them
in bloom, when they generally admire them.

SCILLA BIFOLIA RUBERRIMA.
Among the earliest forms of the valuable Scilla
bifolia which I have in my garden here is a
pretty form raised by Mr. James Allen, and
called by him ruberrima. It is much brighter
in the bud when it first opens than the typical S.
bifolia or the greater number of its forms, open-
ing rather red than blue, while its leaves are
also quite chocolate-coloured. It seeds freely,
but the seedlings are not reliable in their colour,
and they frequently revert to the type. A hardy
little flower, when S. bifolia ruberrima finds its
way into commerce, it will be appreciated by the
lover of out-of-the-way bulbs. S. Arnott, Sunny-
7n:ad, Dumfries.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

The Flora of the District.

(Continued from page 139.)

About six o'clock the rain ceased, and we
began to think of the day's excursion, in which
I hoped to find Meconopsis integrifolia, the
plant I had travelled from England to these
wilds in quest of. We instructed the soldiers
who were with us to go down and commandeer
one of the farmhouses a thousand feet below,
and get our baggage and sick cook carried down
there. Most of the men seemed better, but the
cook was neither better nor worse than he was
the night before.

This Ya-chia pass enjoys an unenviable repu-
tation, and is much dreaded on account of its
violent and asphyxiating winds. It is said to
be the only pass in the neighbourhood which
"stops people's breath." Seized with faintness,
many porters lay down by the roadside, lose
heart, and soon die. The Chinese attribute the
ill-effects to the presence of malignant demons,
against whom it is powerless to fight. I have
not the slightest doubt but that our cook would
have died had he been left to himself. He had
quite lost heart, and would exert himself for
nothing. There is indeed something very pecu-
liar about this pass. It is not mere altitude, for
I had this same cook with me at much higher
elevations, and he was never affected in the
same way. *

At 7 o'clock we set out for our day's collect-
ing. We were not more than a hundred yards
from our hut ere v,<e we»e again drenched to the
skin, but later the sun came out and things
improved.

The ascent from the hut to the head of the
pass (13,100 feet] is of the easiest. The road
lays through a sloping valley, half a mile or
so wide, flanked by steep spurs from the snow-
clad heights. A considerable torrent flows
through the valley, and being much swollen in
consequence of last night's heavy rains, fording
this torrent was not the simplest of matters.
Parts of this valley are heath-like and covejed
with a dense scrub. Other parts consist of
Alpine meadows intersected by numerous
streamlets and ponds. These meadows were
gay with flowers of every hue, and a right plea-
sant time we spent among them !

On this side of the pass the tree limit is
roughly about 11,000 feet, but trees are very
scarce. Around this altitude the vegetation con-
sists largely of scrub, composed chiefly of bushes
of evergreen holly-like Oak, 4 to 6 feet high,
three species of Spiraea, Berberis spp., Lonicera
spp., and a few Rhododendrons. This belt
quickly gives way to Rhododendrons, which at
12,000 feet and upwards form dense impene-
trable thickets.

It is, however, the Alpine meadows that rivet

166

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1906.

and fascinate one's attention. These are car-
peted with Anemones, Primulas, Pedicirlaris,
Delphiniums, Gentians, and I know not what
besides, each taking unto themselves large areas
and transforming them into masses of blue,
yellow, white, red, and purple. 1 wish I had
the ability to describe this floral paradise with
all its glories, but this is beyond n^e. All I can
do is to enumerate a few of the outstanding
features, and leave the rest to the imagination
of my readers.

Individually, Primula sikkimensis, Kheum
Alexandrae, and Trollius yunnanensis demand a
place in the front rank. The Sikkim cowslip is
well known to plant-lovers, and I would that
these good people could see it as it occurs in
these regions. In moist meadows, and by the
sides of streams and ponds, it grows in thou-
sands and hundreds of thousands, like the com-
mon Cowslip in an English meadow. On many
a plant I counted 20 scapes, each with huge
umbels, and the air was laden with the soft
delicious odour of tho flowers. Rheum Alex-
andrae is in these regions what R. nobile is in
Sikkim. Sir Joseph Hooker* thus describes the
Sikkim plant : " On the black rocks, the
gigantic Rhubarb (Rheum nobile) forms pale
pyramidal towers, a yard high, of inflated re-
fle.\ed bracts, that conceal the flowers, and over-
lapping one another like tiles, protect them
from the wind and rain ; a whorl of broad green
leaves, edged with red, spreads on the ground
at the base of the plants, contrasting w^ith the
transparent bracts, which are yellow, margined
with pink. This is the handsomest herbaceous
plant in Sikkim." This description might well
have been written in the valley of the Ya-chia
col, so well does it cover the Chinese plant.
The differences are mainly in the leaves and
bracts, which are longer and much less rounded
in the Chinese plant. Whilst I am not pre-
pared to grant ' to R. Alexandrae the first
place amongst the herbs of this region, its right
to a foremost place cannot be denied. I have
in mind as I write, a sloping mountain-side,
somewhat spongy and boggy, with boulders
jutting out here and there, whereon grew thou-
sands of these plants with their " pale pyramidal
towers." The Chinese name for this plant is
"Ma Huang" (Horse Rhubarb); they do not
use it medicinally. Let us hope that this
Chinese species v.'ill prove more amenable to
cultivation than its Sikkim congener has hitherto
done. Like the last, TroUius yunnanensis is
also peculiar to these regions. Imagine Ranun-
culus cortusaefolius, with small leaves and
slightly larger flowers, and you have this plant.
This i'rollius is essentially a social plant, and
to see thousands of plants ma?sed together, one
mass of lovely yellow, is to remember it. I
have used Franchet's original name for this
plant, as I consider it a good species and not
merely a variety of T. pumulus, to which he
subsequently reduced it.

Pcdicularis is the genus par excellence of these
Alpine meadows. Altogether, about 130 species
of I'edicularis are recorded from China, of these
fully two-thirds occur in the far west. During
the day I gathered 17 fresh species ; some of
these were prostrate, others a few inches high,
others, again, were a foot or more high. All
were a mass of flowers, embracing every colour
save blue ; it is a great pity we cannot cultivate
this most charming genus. The difficulty is
that all are more or less parasitic — very often on
the roots of grasses.

Corydalis is another genus which deserves
more than mere passing reference. Some 58
species of this genus have been recorded from
China, and fully half of these are found in the
west. The majority of the species favour rocky
or heathy places. All the cardinal colours, save
green, are represented in this genus. A species
4-8 inches high, with lovely deep-blue flowers,
is one of the features of the highland flora
around the Ya-chia col.

I have already mentioned several species of

* Himalayan Journal.

Primula, and on another occasion I shall have
something to say about many other species
which abound hereabouts. I must, however,
enumerate two species which are very striking
constituents of the Ya-chia col flora, viz.,
Primula involucrata and P. amethystina. Acres
of moist grassland were carpeted with the pink
flowers of the former, and even larger areas of
heath-land with the dark-blue or purple flowers
of the latter. '

Alongside streams and on the heaths I col-
lected several species of Senecio (Ligularia),
some with handsome flowers and foliage. One
fluviatile species (S. nelumbiifolius), with huge
rounded leaves and large cymose clusters of
small yellow flowers was particularly attractive.

Amongst scrub in heathy places the handsome
Cypripedium tibeticum occurs in thousands.
This species, with its large, dark-red flowers,
should prove a valuable addition to the list of
hardy C}'pripediums. Lilium lophophorum,
various species of Anemone, with white, blue,
and yellow flowers, many species of Gentiana,
and many leguminous herbs and sub-shrubs
help to swell the list.

Above 13,000 feet an occasional plant of the
medicinal Rhubarb (Rheum officiuale) was en-
countered. This is a handsome and conspicuous
plant ; its much-branched inlloiescence of white
flowers is often 7 feet high. On another occa-
sion I met with it in hundreds. This Kliubarb
occurs as high up as 14,000 feet, the highest
altitude of any tall-growing herb in this neigh-
bourhood. On dry, heath}- ground, several
typical Tibetan plants are found, such as stem-
less Composites, various species of Allium, An-
drosace, Saxifraga ; the tiny Ephedra Gerardiana
var. sikkimensis, and the pretty Stellera
Chaniaejasme, with its terminal globular heads
of variously coloured flowers. This latter plant
grows about a foot high, and is very ornamental.
£. II. Wilson.

[To he cop.tiniied.)

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. Wiiiir , Orchit! Grower to Sir Tr]i\-ok Lawrence,
Bart.. Llurford, Surrey.
Tempcratwcs. — During the spring months the
gradual increase in the warmth of the atmosphere
out of doors renders it necessary to pay particular
attention to the admission of air to the different
divisions. ' The constantly increasing power of the
sun is \ery beneficial to Orchids generally, but
when cold, drying winds prevail, with alternative
spells of strong sunshine, it becomes almost im-
possible to maintain anything like regular tem-
peratures in the houses. Even the experienced
grower will need to exercise careful judgment to
discriminate between the dangers of admitting too
much air or too little. The state of the weather
outside should be the principal guide, and should
be carefully studied by growers. Many of
the plants have already re - commenced to
grow, therefore large volumes of air, especially
if admitted from the roof ventilators, cause a
down draught, which is injurious to many tender,
species. As a guide to the beginner the follow-
ing remarks may be useful ; — The atmospheric
temperature of the Odontoglossum or cool
house, under the sun's influence, will often
rise considerably above 65", or what is thought
to be higher than is necessary for the well-
being of the plants. Especially may this happen
on bright, cold days when the external air is at or
below 40°, and is therefore unsuitable to be al-
lowed in sufficient quantity to keep down the
temperature inside, especially when admitted
through the top ventilators. On such occasions it
is advisable to let down the blinds, and gradually
increase the ingress of air thi'ough the lowermost
ventilators. When the atmosphere outside is con-
genial and moist, and has a temperature of 50°,
ventilate more freely in every department. In the
other divisions, when the wind is in a cold quarter
and the sun shining brightly, it is also advisable
to shade the plants, and to keep up the requisite
degrees of warmth by means of the heating ap-
paratus, also to give all the ventilation the weather
will permit. On several occasions lately the sun
has been rather bright and powerful, and on look-

ing through a small collection of Orchids a few
days ago 1 noted several leaves which have been
scorched through flaws in the glass. ■ When this
happens the flaw should at once be found, and
then thickly daubed with white paint, or a pane of
good, clear glass substituted for the faulty one.

Pieparations Jor Re-potting. — During the next few
weeks many plants will require to be repotted ;
therefore a sufficient quantity of peat, turfy loam,
&c., should be obtained and made ready for use.
Preserve and dry all the Fern rhizomes taken from
the peat, as they are useful for drainage purposes.
Plenty of sphagnum moss should be got in, and it
is advisable to pick out all dead leaves, all particles
of grass, and other rubbish. Have plenty of
crocks broken up small, and procure a quantity
of leaf-soil, and coarse silver sand. Old flower
pots that are to be used again should be made
scrupulously clean, also any old crocks that may
be needed for drainage purpose. Get the loam
inside and pull it to pieces, and lay it in a suitable
Dlace so as to get warm before it is used.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Clevcley, .Mlerton, Liverpool.

Chrysanthemums. — These should now be
shifted into pots measuring six inches in dia-
meter, and from these be transferred into
their "flowering pols" about the middle of
May. In consequence of pressure of work in
all departments of the garden at this season
of the year, it sometimes happens that the re-
potting is delayed, and there is no plant that
sooner suffers from the stunted condition of the
roots than the Chrysanthemum when confined
in small pots. Make an effort, therefore, i'>
transfer them into larger ones as soon as the
jjlants have filled their pots with roots. Follow-
ing this operation, let the atmosphere be kept
close for a few days to encourage root actlj'^.
after which period gradually increase the quan-
tity of air admitted, and remove the glass lights
when the weather continues fine. Firm potting
is necessary in Chrysanthemum culture, inas-
much as it is followed by the production of a
greater percentage of fibrous routs and shorier-
jointed growth, which will mature perfectly, and
flower satisfactorily. -^

Shading. — In the cultivation of a mixed col-
lection of plaints it is diflicult to give to
each plant a suitable position as to exposure to
direct sunshine or shade. A fixed shading is not
desirable where flowering plants are concerned ;
there is a marked ini|irovement in the substance
and colour of the flowers of Allamandas, Eou-
gainvilleas, Ixoras, Dipladenias, and Gloriosas,
when grown in sunshine. By a little care-
ful study in arrangement, many plants can
be so placed as to have their peculiar re-
quirements fulfilled even in the same compart-
ment. There are many beautiful stove flower-
ing plants such as Eucharis, Anthuriums, and
Gloxinias, which require partial shade, and if
exposed to the direct influences of sunshine,
the evaporation of moisture from the leaves
would bo too great, and would ultimately
change their colour to a pale shade, through
loss of chlorophyll. It is, therefore, necessary
to syringe frequently such plants as are growing
under the influences of sunshine, but in the
case of plants which are heavily shaded, evapo-
ration being slower, less syringing is necessary.
Roller blinds should be fixed, to be in readiness
when required for use.

General Remarks. — Increase the atmospheric
moisture in the stove and intermediate house.
Moderate the fires on bright mornings and thus
economise the fuel — remembering that plants
do not improve in growth when subjected to
much heat from the hot-water pipes when the
sun's rays are shining on the roof glass at the
same time. Continue to pot off from the seed
pans young plants of Cyclamen. Keep a sharp
look-out for insect pests on Pelargoniums, Cal-
ceolarias, and Cinerarias, and take care to ad-
mit plenty of air to the Cinerarias.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNsiiAW, G.ardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Ilatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Cucumbers. — Plants which were raised early in
the year, and are now beai'ing fruit, should be
afforded frequent top-dressings, applying these as
soon as the roots appear on the surface, and using
two parts loam, one part leaf-soil and one part
horse manure. Such young plants should only
be allowed to develop as many fruits as are really

March 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

167

required, for if over cropped in the early stages,
exhaustion will soon follow. Continue to pinch
the shoots, and each day regulate all the voung
growths in such a manner that they may cover the
trellis-work quickly. Now that the days are
longer, and the amount of sun-heat is increasing,
the plants may be lightly syringed over three or
four times each day. Red spider can be prevented
by lyringing the plants occasionally with water
containing a small quantity of soft soap and
sulphur, and this will be also a good remedy for
mildew. Close the house early in the afternoons,
and syringe the plants in order to secure ample
atmospheric moisture. Let the roots be fed
liberally with diluted cow-manure water. Where
there is only limited house-room, preparations
should be made for cultivating Cucumbers in
frames. E.vcellent crops can be grown in this
way at a very small cost and trouble. Make up a
hot-bed of leaves and long litter, place a two-light
frame over it, and put in each light a mound of
rich, turfy soil. Wlien the bottom heat is at 80°
and not rising, the young Cucumber plants can be
safely planted, shading them from sunshine for
a few days until they have become established.

Figs. — The earliest batch are now in flower, and
there will be very Utile progress in the swelling of
the " fruits " until that stage is passed. Maintain
a steady temperature at night of 60°, and allow a
rise to 75° during the day. Do not allow the
trees to get dry at the roots, or many of the
fruits will fall from the branches. When
extra large Figs are desired, only one or two
should be left on each bearing shoot, but do not
remove all the others at one time, it being better
to take away a few each day, as Fig trees are very
subject to bleeding. Stop the shoots at the fifth
leaf, and cut out any weakly growths. Afford
liberal ventilation when the weather is favourable.
Keep a sharp look-out for red spider, and, if this
pest is discovered, sponge the leaves with a solution
of soft soap or Gishurst compound made very weak.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gaidener to the K.ir! oftPLVMOUTH,
St. Fagau's Castie, Glainorgansliiie.
Sweet Peas. — The present is a good time to sow
seeds of these beautiful and deservedly popular
flowers. It is unnecessary to attempt an enumera-
tion of the best varieties in this short note, but the
cultivator will be wise to restrict himself to a few
varieties, and those of the very best and most
distinct colouring. It is better to sow the seeds
singly in 2J.-inch pots, placing the pots in boxes
to facilitate handling rather than to sow them in
their flowering quarters. If germinated in a little
heat the seedlings can be immediately removed to
cold frames, and before the plants are anything like
root-bound, or drawn, they should be planted out
in the ground previously prepared for them. Six
inches apart in a single row is quite close enough
distance to plant. In doing this they should be
placed well into the soil, covering the stem, and
pressing with the feet all round to make them per-
fectly firm. When 3 or 4 inches in height they
must be supported with stakes in the manner
preferred by the cultivator. By removing the
newly-formed seed pods, incessantly cutting the
blooms, and by aflording plentiful supplies of
water during dry weather, the natural flowering
period of the Sweet Pea can be much extended.
The advantage of sowing in pots is that the plants,
being raised in frames, are to a great extent
exempt from the attacks of birds and slugs. A
more satisfactory growth is thus obtained, and no
gaps in the border are left unfilled.

Callistcphus hortensis. — The China Asters are
amongst our best half-hardy annuals for making
the flower garden bright and gay during the
summer and autumn months, and of them all
none surpasses Calllstephus hortensis — more often
catalogued as sinensis — for beauty and useful-
ness. It can be obtained in distinct colours of
dark blue, mauve, pink, and white. The flowers
are lai'ge and single, and in a cut state are in-
valuable for bold decoration in vases. The plant
itself is of bold habit, attains a height of 2 feet,
and is admirably adapted for using as an autumn
bedder. The seed of all the China Asters can be
sown at the present time in shallow boxes in a
slight heat, or in a frame having a very little
bottom heat.

The Ten-week Stock is another delightful half-
hardy annual, which is much admired because of
its fragrance and its varied colouring. A week or
a fortnight hence will be time enough to sow the
seeds either in shallow boxes or in a cool frame.

Care should be taken to ensure the plants making
sturdy growth, by placing them near to the glass.
If, instead of pricking them into boxes as a final
shift, the seedlings are potted up singly, so that
transplanting into the open ground may be done
without the roots being disturbed, the extra trouble
will be recompensed by better results.

Delphinium ■■Queen of the Blues," though a
perennial, is best treated as a half-hardy annual.
If sown now in heat it can be had in flower by the
end of June. Too much cannot be said in praise
of this lovely plant, either for use in the mixed
border or as a bedder. In masses it is most
eS'ective. Its habit is dwarf, hardly exceeding 18
inches in height, and the colour of its flowers is a
clear intense blue— a colour so rare but so de-
sirable in flowers. D. "Porcelain Blue" is
similar to the above, but its flowers are of a
lighter shade, yet very attractive.

Other hiilf-haidy annuals to be sown at the present
time are Alonsoa, Arctotis, Browallla, Cosmea,
Helichrysum, Marigold, Mesembryanthemum.
Petunia, Rhodanthe, Schizanthus, Scablosa, and
also Abronia, Antirrhinum, and Gaillardia, which
can be treated as half-hardy annual?.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. CuoK, Gardener to Sir KnMUSD G. LoDER,

Bart., Leonardslee, Susses:.
Peaches and Nectarines. — Proceed with the train-
ing of these and get the work done before the
buds commence to open. Leave plenty of space
for subsequent growths to be nailed in properly,
and do not hesitate to cut away the worst shoots
wherever any thinning may be necessary. In prun-
ing take care to cut to a wo!)d bud, for it will
be noticed that a fruit will drop, even after
setting, if there is no growth beyond it. When
pruning has been finished clean over the surface
of the border and put the labels into good con-
dition and suitable positions. Means for pro-
tecting the blossom should be provided. If blinds
are used, these should be at once erected and
made ready, and when once they have been drawn
down at night they should be drawn every suc-
ceeding night until danger from frost has passed.
.\ double thickness of fish netting is sometimes
put over the trees by means of straining it over
long poles. These should be fixed at the top and
bottom in order to prevent the covering from
getting entangled in tlie branches, and the poles
should be put at least 3 feet or even 4 feet from
the wall at the base, and it will then be possible
to walk under the net and examine the trees.

Apricot Trees. — Means for protecting the blossom
should be got ready at once, just as in the case of
Peaches and Nectarines.

Early Pears. — Trees showing flower may have
some netting thrown over them, for this will
shield them from several degrees of frost. Clapp's
Favourite is one of the earliest varieties to flower
with us.

Labelling. — Attend to the labels on all fruit
trees. If very many are required the "Acme" is
one of the best, and when fastened on the tree by
means of copper wire will last for a long time. If
they become disfigured or dirty they may easily be
cleansed by washing them with paraffin. Suspend
them on the branches in a position easily seen
when used for bush or pyramid trees, but in the
case of wall-trees they should be nailed to the
wall. The " Ideal" label for fixing at the base of
wall-trees has a very good appearance, and aflords
pleasure to visitors to the fruit garden.

Mulching. — When the trees against the wall
have been put in proper condition for the season
rake o\er the surface of the border, and either
supply a mulch of long manure or a good
thickness of coal ashes. These latter serve as a
good mulch, and are easy to keep clean during
the summer. A four-foot path under the wall
should always be left clear of crops.

Late-flanted Strawberries. — Hoe over the surface
of the ground between the rows on a fine day.
Strawberries may still be planted from store-pots.
-Vpply a mulch to older plantations if this has not
already been done.

the cultivation of dwarf Peas, French Beans,
or Lettuces. If the seeds of these be sown as
early as possible, the crops will mature before
the soil is required for earthing up the Celery.
In clayey land it is a mistake to make the
trenches very deep, because the roots of the
Celery are then in a colder medium than would
otherwise be the case. For general purposes,
two lines of Celery can be conveniently grown
in one trench, thus economising space over the
single-line system. A trench 2 feet in width is
ample for two lines, and there is no need to
make it more than 1 foot in depth. Six inches
of well-rotted cow manure, or the same amount
of decayed vegetable refuse, will be sufficient
manure for the crop. . If the bottom soil i,s
good this can be dug into it, but if not then it
is better to dig the bottom of the trench before
adding the layer of manure, and finishing off on
the top with G inches of soil. ,

Suiuiiig the Seeds. — The main crop must now
be sown indoors, according to previous direc-
tions. W hen the seedlings commence to show the
rough leaf, the plants will not require more
than an intermediate temperature. Guard them
from suffering the least check to growth from
the first, and they will then be less likely to
run prematurely to seed. Seed of Celeriac
should also be sown and treated in the same
way as far as the first stages of growth are con-
cerned. A successional sowing may be made
where the crop is to mature, and although the
roots will hardly be so large, they will become
of a serviceable size.

Vegetables hi Frames. — Young crops, such as
Turnips, Carrots, Globe Beet, &c., will require
prompt thinning, although there is no need to
thin severely, as these roots will be used small
and in quantity. Ventilation must be afforded
with extra care during the present month. A
moderate damping down early in the afternoons
will be conducive to quick growth. Potatos
will need earthing up, and if the haulms are
inclined to topple over, let them have the sup-
port of a short stake. A few well-sprouted
tubers may still be planted to yield new tubers
before a crop will be ready in the open. Seed-
ling Cauliflowers and Cabbages, growing in
frames, may be given a fresh supply of water,
and more air, as they continue to increase in
size. Let little batches of Lettuces, and also
the Turnip-rooted and long Radishes be planted
to meet the requirements of the near future.
Peas that were sown in December should now
be showing their first flowers. Syringe them
heavily in the afternoon of sunny days. Among
a number of varieties that were sown here at
the period mentioned. Early Giant is the first
to show its blossoms, but I expect some of the
dvvarfer varieties will overtake it, as they
usually fill their pods more quickly.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. GlusoN, Gardener to Ilis Grace the Duke of
PoKTL.^ND, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Ridges for Celery. — One great advantage in
having theso ridges made early is that it
permits the use of the tops of them for

THE APIARY.

By Chloris.
Spring Notes. — In looking through a file of local
papers a few days ago, I saw recorded that a very
early swarm of bees had been taken during the
first few days of March, and this was regarded as
wonderful luck. As the winter has been unusually
mild we may hear of other early ' ' takes, ' ' for these
swarms, so called, have only turned out because
there is an empty cupboard. No brood, queen
cells, &c., would be found if the hive from which
the bees had emerged were examined, as is the
case during the swarming period. Those who
desire a good store in the supers of honey from
the fruit bloom should commence feeding with
syrup, and all hives should be well examined
when the weather permits, to make sure that their
inmates have plenty of food, and to spare. Keep
a good supply of quilts on the frames, taking care
that the corners are filled, so that no leakage of
heat may take place Remember that those bees
are on the wing most that need food, and often
during very unsuitable weather. There is no
economy in keeping bees on the border of starva-
tion. Commence the year well by taking time to
examine the contents of the bee home. Last year
a friend of mine, who always does things in a
hurry, especially bee work, lost several queens,
and such loss at this season is almost irreparable ;
at the least, much time is lost, which can be
ill-spared. Remember then to do the work
leisurely, thoroughly, and above all gently.
Nothing in bee-keeping pays so well as gentleness
in handling.

lOS

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1900.

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Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
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to return unused coviniunications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ &c. but lie
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to 77iark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely tobe of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY,

Mar. 20 Roy. Hort. Soc. Coins, meet.

WEDNESDAY, Mar. .1 ] KOp^^Bot. Soc. Show, Regenfs

("Exhibition of Colonial -grown
-, J fruit at the Roy. Hort. Soc.

.■viar. 22-1 j^^ii^ Vincent Square, West-
minster (3 days.)

THURSDAY,

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 43-2°.
Actual Temperatures: —

London.— H'ci(»«i((ij', March 14 (G p.m.) : Max. U° ; Min.
30".
Gardeners' Chromcle OCBce, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— T/miirfdj'. March 15
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.9; Temp., 53"; Weather—
Overcast.
Provinces.— IVcrf/ifsrfn;', March 14 (6 p.m.): Max. 50"
Ireland S.W. ; Min. 32" Scotland N.E.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Hardy Border Plants, Perennials, Lilies, Roses, Azaleas,

&c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by ProtherOe & Morris,

at 12.
TUESDAY—

Herbaceous and other plants, Liliams, Hardy bulbs and

plants, &c., at 12.

4,000 Roses, at i and 3. followed by Palms and Plants,

Azaleas, &c., at 67 and 68, Cheapside, by Protheroe &

Morris.
WEDNESDAY—

Roses, Shrubs, Palms, Lilies, &c., at Steven's Rooms,

King Street, Covent Garden, W.C.

THURSDAY—

Unreserved Sale of Duplicates from the well-known
"Rosslyn" collection of Orchids, at 67 and 68, Cheap-
side, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris.

FRIDAY—

Unreserved Sale of Duplicates from the *' Bank House "
collection of Orchids, i.ooo Cypripedium Fairrieanum,
6,000 Odontoglossuin crispimi, Cypripedium, Lalio-
Catlleya, and Cattleya Hybrids, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheap-
side, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at i.

The letter from Mr. Watson,
Examina- published in a recent issue, has
tions in gjigi^g^ „.,^„^, „.,ore letters than
Horticul- - .

ture. '"'^ could publish even were it
desirable to do so. SpeaUing
generally it appears as if the writers looked on
one side of the question only and are dis-
appointed because the results are not such as
they hoped for. A little reflection would show
them that such consequences as they seem to
expect are unattainable by any method of
examination. If we do not misintei-pret their
views, they seem to think that experience
can be gained, or even tested, in the exami-
nation-room, at least they write as if that
were their opinion. A lad has had the advan-
tage, we will say, of attending lectures and
demonstrations ; perhaps he has had to work
for a short period under a competent instructor ;
he passes the examination in such a way as to
satisfy the examiners — a few pass with dis-
tinction. But supposing these things to have
happened, what guarantee can they possibly
afford of a man's practical ability ? Little or
none. What they do show is that the man has
made the endeavour to equip himself with a
certain amount of knowledge. That knowledge

by itself is a means, not an end. A child learns
the alphabet not for the mere sake of knowing
letter A from letter B, but for the purpose of
turning this knowledge to account in the busi-
ness of life. If he is unable or unwilling to do
this, his knowledge of the alphabet can be of
no service to him or any one else.

So the garden-student in the examination
room is expected to have acquired at least
a rudimentary acquaintance with the struc-
ture of plants, of the work they do, and of
the conditions under which they do it. No
one, we should have thought, would have ques-
tioned the supreme value of such knowledge
properly applied. But to our astonishment
some writers, holding high places in the
fraternity and for whose opinions in general
we ha\-e the highest respect, write that their
experience of these " highly-certificated and
college-trained individuals" is anything but
satisfactory. We have often heard similar
expressions of opinion from nurserymen and
others who want cheap labour, and are only
concerned with the progress of horticulture in
so far as it contributes to their commercial
prosperity. We have always thought that
such opinions were the result of that imperfect
appreciation of what it is reasonable to e.xpect
from an examination, to which we have already
alluded. The writers from whose letters we
quote speak of "college-trained" lads proving
unsatisfactorv. Is that not an evidence that,
however highly certificated the pupils may
have been, they have not been trained ? That,
surely, is a defect not to be credited to the
examination or to the examiners. The train-
ing has to come after. Doctors have, in their
student days, to attend all sorts of lectures,
but it is not until they have been well grounded
in the principles of their science that, under
the guidance of their seniors, they undergo
actual practical training in their art in the
hospital wards. But even after two or three
years' work in the lecture room and laboratory,
followed by as many more passed in applying
the knowledge they have obtained there, they
still lack that most valuable degree of experi-
ence which comes only to a man when he is
left to his own resources. Surely the same
remarks apply to a young gardener.

We have been told of a gardener entrusted
with the collection and labelling of hardy plants
who is most efficient, and never puts a plant
behind a wrong label, though he can neither read
nor write, and cannot even sign his own name !
If this be the type of man required in a garden,
we shall despair of the attempt now being
made by the British Gardeners' Association to
improve the condition of gardeners, to raise
the profession to a higher level, and to secure
to the practitioner a higher reward for his ser-
\ices. If we are to remain hewers of wood
and drawers of water, why, then, let us not be
troubled with examinations, let us not repine
at our lot or yearn for more ample recognition.
We are worth what we get, and no more. But,
if we are concerned in the advance of horti-
culture, if we want to be better practitioners
than our fathers, owing to their lack of the
advantages we possess, could have been, then,
by all means, let us give our young gardeners
the opportunity of being able not only to
appreciate, but to turn to practical account,
the resources which advancing science is always
placing at our disposal, if only we could, or
would, make use of them.

It was our experience on one occasion to
ha\e to examine several candidates for a public
appointment. The examination was partly
written, partly oral. One of the candidates
whom we had reason to believe was a good

all-round practical gardener appeared in due
course at the table for his oral examination. The
table was strewn with plants, seedlings, grafts,
frui's, vegetables, and the like, which formed
the subjects on which the candidate was ques-
tioned. These things were what the man must
have been in the habit of handling in his daily
work for several years. Nevertheless, his
answers were extremely unsatisfactory, till at
last, wearied by the negative results obtained by
previous attempts to elicit information, a ques-
tion was asked concerning the difference, from
a cultural point of view, between a Cauliflower
and a Broccoli ? Still no answer. It was
then suggested by the examiner that the
one was hardier than the other. "Yes," was
the reply, " didn't )'ou know that ! " We have
forgotten the result, but we expect the ques-
tionings were put an end to as soon as possible.
The examinee in this case was a practical
gardener of middle age and much experience,
but utterly unable to express his ideas in an
examination-room. We hardly think this was
the fault of the examination system, although
it is true the examiner failed in his attempt to
make manifest the qualitications he had other
reasons for believing the candidate to possess.
We were reminded of this circumstance by
reading the annexed report of the examiners
told off in January last by the Royal Horticul-
tural Society to conduct the examination : —

" Examination of Men employed in Public Par'.;3
and Gardens.

' ' The examination was partly written and partly
viva voce, and occupied three hours and 20 minutes
in all

" Ninety candidates entered their names, and of
these only one was absent

" Speaking generally, the answers, both written
and viva voce, revealed a distinctly remarkable
absence of observation and thought, combined
with by no means too high a degree of ordinary
education. Most of the candidates appeared to
possess a rough and elementary knowledge of the
subjects inquired of, but were unable to give e.x-
pression to their ideas in coherent and intelligent
language. This may be accounted (or perhaps by
the fact that it was, to the great majority, their
first experience of an examination, and many of
them showed evidence of a quite unnecessary
degree of nervousness.

"The examiners have given credit wherever
possible for good intentions, and regret that, even
so, they are unable to include more names in the
class list.

" The examiners desire to impress on the candi-
dates the absolute necessity of observation as they
pursue their daily work, and the application of
thought as to the why and the wherefore of what
they do and what they notice. A man can never
be really fit for high place in any calling in life
unless he both thinks and observes. Rules are
good, but only so long as they lead to the inquiry
as to why in each case they should be followed,
and what effect they are intended to produce.

"The examiners urge the unsuccessful candi-
dates not to be disheartened by failure in their
first attempt, but to set themselves carefully to
observe the things about them, and to think out
for themselves the reasons of their different
operations. Twelve months of this, coupled with
inquiry from their superiors on points which
seem difficult to fathom, will probably result in
their success at the next or at some subsequent
examination.

" William Crump, C. R. Fielder, Geo. Nichol-
son, Owen Thomas, Edward White, W. Wilks,
Examiners."

Could a better set of examiners have been
found ?

We may compare the state of things here
revealed with our knowledge of certain
"college-trained" gardeners in Belgium and

March 17, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

109

France. One such case is before us now — that
of a -ughly-trained youth speaking and \\riting
flue itly French, German, English, and pro-
L)j.jly Flemish. It has not been our lot to
meet with many, if any, young English gar-
deners of corresponding position who could
speak any language but their own, and this
is by no means a solitary instance. But then
we have been often told that young men of
this type when tried here are found to be
failures so far as practical work is concerned.
We suspect, as we have said, that some
employers do not want high-class labour. At
any rate, we know that many of these young
men are now filling with ability responsible
positions at home and abroad, which they
could hardly do were their practical training as
deficient as it is sometimes assumed to be.

The examination system should serve as one
method of raising the gardening profession in
the eyes of the employers, and thus benefit the
employed. If it does not do this effectively,
some means must be taken of making it do so.
At any rate, let us not depreciate anj' honest
attempt to raise the intellectual and social
condition of the gardener, such as is being
made, not only by examiners, but by the British
Gardeners' Association.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — The

unpretentious looking building now known as Kew
I'alace has associations with royalty that give it a
special interest. It is also " a good characteristic
example of old English architecture." Built in
the latter part of the 17th century by Sir Hugh
PoRTMAN, a "Dutch merchant," it was in his
time known as the "Dutch House." In 1730 it
was leased by Queen Caroline, wife of George II.,
"when she began her alterations and works in
Richmond Park and the gardens of Richmond
Lodge," and was afterwards the residence of
Frederick Prince of Wales. After his death his
widow occupied it "while engaged in laying out
and extending her famous exotic gardens — the
origin of the present world-renowned Kew Gar-
dens." In 17S1 Queen Charlotte acquired it and
used it as a sort of nursery for her children. Shs
and the King preferred Kew to Hampton Court,
living there with their family "as the simplest
country gentlefolks." At that time the public
were admitted to Kew Gardens on Thursdays only,
when the green was crowded with carriages, and
parties came by the river with bands of mi-'^ic to
the ait opposite the Palace. When the King,
George III., became of weak mind he was
domiciled at Kew, where he spent his sane
spells in improvmg the grounds at Kew, and
in farming at Richmond and Mortlake. Queen
Charlotte died in 1S18, and from this time
forward Kew Palace remained uninhabited until
the year 1898, when the late Queen Victoria de-
cided that in commemoration of her Diamond
Jubilee it should be open to the public as a show
place. It is now open on every day except
Fridays. The rooms contain pictures and other
objects of art and interest, mostly relics of royalty.
A Guulc* to the Palace and its contents, with a
catalogue of the pictures, is on sale in the Palace.
Until a few months ago the view of the Palace
from the gardens was spoilt by the old Royal
stables and yard, which were partially screened by
trees. Trees, stables, and yard have now been
swept away, the result being a great improvement,
as will be seen from the photographic view taken
from the Broad Walk. The view from the
Principal Entrance on Kew Green suffers at
present from a ladies' cloak room which is partly
hidden by shrubs, but we understand that this
will shortly be removed.

* We are indebted to this Guide for some of th'j par-
Iculars here given.

Royal Horticultural Society. — The ne.xt
meeting of the committees will be held on Tues-
day, March 20, in the Society's hall, Vincent
Square, Westminster. The Narcissus Committee
will meet on this occasion. A lecture on " Para-
sites and Saprophytes among Flowering Plants,"
illustrated by lantern slides, will be given by the
Rev. Prof. G. Henslow, M.A., V.M.H., at
3 o'clock. The exhibition of Colonial-grown
Fruit and Vegetables, both fresh and preserved,
will be held, as already announced, in the Society's
hall, on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, March
22, 23, and 24. The exhibition will be opened at
I o'clock on March 22, and at 10 a.m. on the two
following days.

Scientific Committee. — We learn with great
pleasure that Mr. Charles C. Hurst has kindly
consented to give a simple statement of the Men-
delian Laws of Inheritance before the Scientific
Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society at
the next meeting on March 20, 1906. Mr. Hurst
will illustrate his remarks by means of specimens,
and will show how the laws affect the practice of
hybridisati?5i. Fellows who are not members
of the committee, but who are desirous of at-
tending the meeting, should communicate their
wishes to the acting president or secretary of
the committee.

Small Holdings.— The Departmental Com-
mittee appointed by the President of the Board of
Agriculture and Fisheries to enquire into the sub-
ject of Small Holdings held a sitting on March 7.
Evidence was given by Mr. H. Rider Haggard.

Nature-Printed Postcards.— The Country
Press, of 19, Ball Street, Kensington, are issuing a
very pretty series of postcards showing British
Ferns, nature-printed on a black background.
These pictures (seven cards representing 42 species)
are from the plates of Mr. Francis Heath's book.
The Fern Paradise. We understand that these
C .rds will be succeeded by others representing
various natural history subjects. It is mentioned
that the pictures have an educational value, but
this is greatly lessened by the facts that only the
popular, not the scientific, names of the subjects
mentioned are given, and that only single fronds
of the Ferns shown with no allusion to size or
habit or details of fructification.

I R ISH G AR den I ng. — With so many distinguished
gardeners and so many interesting gardens, both
private and professional, it has been a matter of
surprise to us that Ireland should not long since
have had its gardening journal. That deficiency
is now to be supplied. We have before us the
first number of "Irish Gardening, a monthly educa-
tional journal devoted to the advancement of
horticulture in Ireland." For some time past
the need of such a journal has been felt, especially
by those who are directly concerned in the work
of horticultural instruction in the counties. The
proposed " monthly " is issued at the repeated re-
quest of the entire body of county instructors in
horticulture who have individually volunteered to
ta'ce an active part in its production and circulation.
Irish Gardening will be an educational journal ap-
pealing to all classes of the community interested
in the cultivation of plants, either for purposes of
profit or for the beautification of Irish homes. In
addition to seasonable cultural directions for fruit,
vegetable, shrub and flower cultivation, a feature
will be made of short articles in clear, non-tech-
nical language upon the scientific principles
underlying good garden practice, contributed by
authoritative writers on the subjects chosen.
Special attention will be given to the review of
c rrent horticultural literature, and to works on
b )tany and entomology and other sciences bearing
upon garden work. .A.rrangements for a monthly
series of papers on seasonal operations are being
made. The periodical is well printed on good paper,
and freely illustrated, and its cost is placed at such

a low rate that we earnestly hope the aspirations of
its founders will be well supported by the public.
The articles, as might have been anticipated from
the assistance rendered by the horticultural in-
structors, are of a high class, and destined to be
of permanent value, .\fter a "send-off" of an
appreciative character from Sir Horace Plu.nkett,
we find an article by Mr. F. Moore on the con-
dition of Horticulture in Ireland. The article is
written in an optimistic tone, and is accompanied
by a portrait of the writer. What the better class
Irish gardens and nurseries are our readers have
frequefit opportunities of judging, but they are not
so conversant with the good work which is being
done by the horticultural instructors. Following
the example set by Belgium, these gentlemen are
conferring substantial benefits on tfie rural popu-
lation by their lectures, and stUf more by their
demonstrations. There seems to be no reason
why the practice of profitable gardening should
not be carried out on a large scale in Ireland to
the great advantage of the community. Every
effort to that end will meet with sympathy on this
side of the Channel, and for that reason we cordially
wish all success to Irish Gardening.

Narcissus " Poetaz." — This name applies
to a race derived by crossing N. poetic us and N.
Tazetta. The Revue Horticole speaks of the race
as having more of the general characters of the
Tazetta group, but as being more hardy and with
fewer flowers to a truss than in N. Tazetta. The
flowers are larger than those of Tazetta, and the
cup is almost e.vactly like that of poeticus.

Florists Business in the Rocky Moun-
tains.— At present in our own establishment in
Den\er, says a writer in the American Florist, we
have ledger accounts with more than a thousand
people scattered over all the mountain country.
There is hardly a day in the year that we do not
send retail orders to places from 300 to 500 miles
distant; and on holidays, especially before Memo-
rial Day, these express packages go out literally
by the wagon-load. Often these orders come in
by telephone from some mining camp hundreds of
miles away on the opposite side of the mountains.
We must be in a position to know, as far as
possible, the financial standing of the people
scattered o\'er this wide area, and keep the infor-
mation so readily accessible that we can look up
a man's credit while he holds the long-distance
telephone at so much per minute. This is made
possible by index cards which show at a glance
what experience, if any, we ha%e had, and also the
reports as to credit received from other sources.

Peaches and Nectarines. — Writing in the
Revue Horticole for March i, M. Charles Baltet
puts on record some facts which ought to be inter-
esting to students of Mendelism. The Nectarine
called Lily Baltet, of which a figure is given, is a
"free stone" variety, of which the parentage is
as follows : — In 18S4 a stone of Amsden Peach
was sown. Three years after the seedling pro-
duced fruits — Nectarines — which ripened in the
first fortnight of August ; that is to say, earlier
than other Nectarines. This variety was put
into commerce under the name of Pr^coce de
Cronceels, and received commendation as the
largest and earliest Nectarine. In 1S90 kernels
of Precoce de Cronceels were sown, and ultimately
produced fruits which were all Nectarines, some
"cling stones," others "free stones." Among
them was found one which ripened a little earlier
than the rest, and which had a smaller stone.
This variety was propagated and sent out under the
name of Lily Baltet, which also won the suffrages
of the electors. In 1896 M. Charles Ingouf in
his turn sowed kernels of Lily Baltet. Seedlings
were produced, grafted in 1S99, and ripened fruits
three years later. Some of this last batch — all
originating from the same "Vurce — proved to be
Peaches, others Nectarines. <^ These are still under

170

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

LMarch 17, 190fi.

observation, but one of the Peaches has proved so
distinct that it has been named Charles Ingouf.
It is described as having fruits larger than the
early American varieties, in colour carmine-red
on a cream-coloured ground, and with shorter
down, so that the fruits do not require the applica-
tion of the brush to remove some of the down, as is
demanded for market purposes in France. It ripens
between Amsden and Hales' Early ; that is, after
the first earlies and before the second earlies, thus
filling up an interval which is inconvenient to
growers, dealers, and consumers. In fine, we
have here examples not only of the development
of Peaches and Nectarines on the same branch,
but also of the production of Peaches alternately
with Nectarines from seed. Peaches and Nec-
tarines seem, therefore, to be good subjects for
the students of Mendelism to investigate.

The Supply of Nitrogen to Plants. —

We have received from Air, 'J'. J.\mif.son, the
Director of the Aberdeen Kesearch Association,
a report in which he claims to have discovered
that all plants can feed upon the free nitrogen
gas of the atmosphere by the agency of the hairs
that are found upon the leaves. The " proof " of
this remarkable discovery appears to be as fol-
lows : — The hairs, empty at first, show, as the
plant develops, a little " albumen " (i.e., nitro-
gen-containing material) near their tips, which
increases in amount, and gradually e.\tends fur-
ther down the hair to its base. Later on, when
the leaf ceases its activity, this albumen is with-
drawn, and the hair becomes again empty. From
this fact alone Mr. Jamieson concludes that the
hairs manufacture the albumen he finds in their
tips from the air and then pass it on to the
plant. Mr. Jamieson makes no attempt to show
by analysis that his plants have " fixed " any
nitrogen whatever during their growth. He dis-
misses the whole mass of work that has been
done on this subject during the last sixty years
merely because he misinterprets certain facts
of a type familiar to any physiological botanist.
In an earlier chapter he disposes to his own
satisfaction of the theory that leguminous plants
fix nitrogen by the agency of the bacteria living
in the nodules in their roots. As Mr. Jamieson
begins by denying the existence of these bac-
teria, further argument becomes hopeless. The
whole report derives whatever importance it may
possess from the fact that its author is backed by
a large and distinguished body of gentlemen in
Aberdeen, and receives a subsidy from the
Board of Agriculture, and that, further, on the
strength of his " discovery," he is giving advice
to practical farmers to alter the character of
their cropping and manuring.

ToMATOS. — From the results of numerous ex-
periments made on the growth of Tomatos under
glass by the authorities of the Massachusetts Agri-
cultural College, it appears that " undoubtedly the
best system of growing greenhouse Tomatos is to
plant 12 to i6 inches apart in the rows, prune to
the one stem system, and head in or cut back the
leaders above the fourth or sixth cluster of fruit,
as circumstances require. The physiological
effects of pruning or mutilating manifest them-
selves at first in the retardation or cessation of the
growth activities, which are eventually followed
by an accelerated growth. The degree of response
is determined by the nature of the organs mutilated
and the extent of the injury."

Manuring Potatos. — Under the superin-
tendence of the Midland Agricultural and Dairy
Institute, field-trials on the manuring of Potatos
have been carried out at seven centres ; three in
Nottinghamshire, two in Derbyshire and one on
the Institute Farm at Kingston, Nottingham. The
objects of these trials were three ; the first and
greatest to demonstrate that the best crop of
Potatos is to be obtained by the use of a moderate
dressing of farmyard manure supplemented by

artificial manures, rather than by a heavy dressing
of farmyard manure alone ; the second object
was to find out the most suitable artificial manures
to be so used ; and the third to attempt to illustrate
the fact that farmers ought not to purchase
"compound manures," but should blend for
themselves whatever manurial constituents their
crops may specially require. The correctness of
two of the aims was instructively demonstrated
by the average results — namely, the advisability
of applying smaller dressings of farmyard manure
supplemented by artificials rather than a large
dressing of farmyard manure alone ; and, further,
that a decided advantage is gained by discarding
"compound manures" and becoming one's ow'n
blender.

The Greenwich Ratepayers' Association
have recently adopted a resolution expressing
appreciation of the services rendered to the public
in the development and beautifying of Greenwich
Park by the present superintendent, Mr. Marlow,
and strongly urging upon H.M. First Commissioner
of Works the desirability of establishing winter
gardens in the park.

Marriage of Miss Paul. — On March lo, at
the parish church, Clieshunt, by the Rev. FoLLioTT
Sandford Kkvsell, M.A., Vicar of Weedon,
brotherof the bridegroom. Miss Edith Jean Paul,
daughter of Mr. George Paul, J. P., of Nurserj'
House, Cheshunt, was married to Mr. Francis
Olnev Keysell, eldest son of the late Franxis
Price Kevsell, of Grove House, Cheshunt.

Publications Received. — From the Board of
Agriculture and Fisheries : Agricultural Returns, 190S.
(Produce of Crops.) Tables showing the total pro-
duce and yield per acre of the principal crops in each
County of Great Britain, with Summaries for the
United Kingdom. — From the Royal Gardens, Kew :
Bulletin of Miscellaneous Information : 1906. Con-
tents : Decades Kewensis, XXXVI. -XL. ; Diagnoses
Africanae XIV., New Orchids, 26.— Bulletin of Mis-
cellaneous Information ; October-December, 1901.
Contents : Ground-nut or Pea-nut, Miscellaneous
Notes, Title-page, Contents, and Index to Volume. —
Grass : Pamphlet ou the making and maintenance of
Golf Courses, Lawns, and other Grassy grounds.
From James Carter & Co., High Holborn. — T/ic
Garden City ; Official Organ of the Garden City
Association ; March. A record of progress. — Thirty-
Seventh Annual Report of the Fruil-Groii'ers' Associa-
tion of Ontario ; 1905. The year was one of fair crops
and good prices, as the ri;ports from various districts
show. — From the U.S. Department of Agriculture,
Division of Entomology, Bulletin No. 55. T'.ie Rear-
ing of Queen Bees: by K. F. Phillips, Ph.D.— T/je
Forest Flora of New South Wales. Vol. II. ; Part 9
of Mr. J. H. Maiden's useful work deals with Fhn-
dersia Oxleyana, the Yellow-wood, Eucalyptus dives,
or Broad-leaved Peppermint, and Casuarina Lueh-
manni, or the Bull Oak.

NURSERY NOTES.

THE CARLISLE NURSERY.
The Nursery of Messrs. Little and Ballantyne
at Carlisle is one of the best-known establish-
ments of a similar character ip this country.
Particularly devoted to the cultivation of trees
and shrubs, it has many features in common
with those of the best Scotch nurseries, where
coniferous and other forest trees are raised from
seeds in such quantities as are seldom or never
seen in the more southern counties. Messrs.
Little and Ballantyne's new offices and seed
establishment are situated close to the Carlisle
railway station, but the nursery at Knowe-
field is further afield, though within walking
distance, being within one mile from the centre
of the city. Electric cars run from this point
almost to the nursery. It is an old-established
business, having been founded in 1812 by
Messrs. Kutton. It was purchased from Messrs.
Little and Ballantyne in 1871 by the present
proprietor, Mr. James Watt, J. P., who has now
associated with him his two sons, while he has

retained the names of his predecessors as the
title of the firm. Very much has been done in
the thirty-five years that have since elapsed to
develop both the nursery and seed business,
and Mr. Watt might point to the offices and to-
the nursery as instances in which radical im-
provements and extensions have been effected.
The firm have in their own occupation and
worked b}' them over 1,000 acres of land :
250 acres of this area is at or near Knowefield.

The entrance to the nursery is by a well-
kept drive one quarter of a mile long, on
either side of which are trees and shrubs of
an ornamental nature. Many of these are
stock plants of particular varieties, from
which cuttings, buds, and grafts are obtained
for use in jjropagation. Among Conifers
we noticed an interesting specimen of Pinu's
Balfouriana about 15 feet in height, said to be
one of the largest of this species in the country.
Also a very distinct form of Cupressus Law-
soniana, of markedl}' spreading habit ; Abies
excelsa clanbrassiliana, suitable for cultiva-
tion on rockeries, owing to its extremely
dwarf-growing character ; and A. inverta, only
3 feet in height, but so unmistakably " weep-
ing " that it, too, is among those species
that may be grown among rocks or stonework
and its effect be in keeping with the surround-
ings. Thuya dolabrata, Cryptomeria japonica
var. spiralis, and Cupressus Lawsoniana lutea
were all interesting in this portion of the nur-
sery, the latter variety on account of the un-
usually good colour it had developed. In the
portions of the nursery that ma}' be described a-
the growing quarters, large breadths of almost
every forest and ornamental tree maj' be seen.
English Yews are grown remarkably well, and
there were thousands of newly transplanted
specimens that appeared in the best condition at
the commencement of the winter. Of the
number of Larches grown it is almost impossible
to give numbers, for there appeared to be many
millions. To those who are not familiar with
the routine of raising forest trees, it may be of
interest to know that Larch seeds are sown in
May, in beds, and a few of those that make the
most growth are transplanted after the first
season. But only the " top growths," as they
are temped, are thus treated, and the beds re-
main until the following season, when the re-
maining ])lants, having had more room, and
another season's growth, are also transplanted.
The Japanese Larch seems to find special favour
in the Carlisle establishment, as many as two
millions being raised this year alone. We were
told that this species practically came unscathed
through frosts which have proved disastrous
to the European species. It grows more quickly,
and if the plant or tree loses its leader it quickly
forms another, which the European species
rarely does.

Immense numbers of Corsican, Austrian,
and Scotch Pines, also Spruce in its dif-
ferent varieties, attracted our attention, all
being remarkable for their clean and strong
growth. Some were what are known as
" two year two " or " two X two " plants,
which means that the}' were in the seed bed
for two years, and have since been transplanted
for an equal period, being four years old. " Two
X one" would mean two years in the seed bed
and one year transplanted. The Corsican Pine
has to be handled skilfully, for it is not the
easiest species to transplant successfully, but if
the operation is done when tlfe conditions of
the weather are suitable and at the correct time
the result is satisfactory. It is worth)- of
remark that the Scotch Pine, though the com-
monest species, has been in greater demand
during the past year or two than the supply o'
good plants has satisfied, and the stock we saw
at Carlisle was therefore regarded with satisfac-

March 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

171

tion by the owners. We were told that the
cones are bought from the Highlands of Scot-
land, and are treated in a kiln, specially used
for the purpose by their own staff, where a dry
atmosphere of a temperature at about 65° causes
the scales to separate and seeds to became
liberated.

Many of the choice varieties of Conifers, of
course, have to be propagated by grafting, and
an inspection of these plants, and of young
stock of various kinds, in low pits, the sides of
which were built of turf, was very interesting.
The turf walls, being non-conducting, are looked
upon with more favour than the material usually
employed. Near by were young plants of
Cupressus Lawsoniana ICnowofieldensis glauca,
for which a certificate was obtained in Septem-
ber last at the International Horticultural Show
in Edinburgh. Some golden Yews were admir-
able examples of this highly decorative shrub,
both in the English and Irish varieties. Of very
many other trees and shrubs we saw, but of
which specific mention cannot now be made,
was a fine stock of seedling Oaks.

Roses are an important feature of the nursery,
and about 40,000 to 50,000 plants are budded
each year, in addition to the standards. There
is a good stock of hardy fruit trees of the popu-
lar varieties, especially of such as succeed
best in the North of England. The firm will
distribute a new variety of Strawberry during
the coming autumn. It is named "Bountiful,"'
and is described as from a cross between Sir
Joseph Paxton and Visoomtesse Hericart de
Thury. It is recommended as an excellent main-
crop Strawberry, and from the description we
were given of its cropping qualities the variety
may be expected to become very popular.

The glass houses cover a considerable area, and
comprise in their stock well-giown pot Vines,
Figs, &c., also flowering and foliage plants.
Herbaceous and Alpine plants are also grown in
large numbers. The nursery is divided up and
re-divided by miles of Beech hedges, under
S feet in height, which doubtless serve as good
wind-breaks in this much exposed position, and
so provide shelter for the plants.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

EUPATORIUMS.
These easily cultivated plants are deserving
of attention wheiever early spring flowers are in
request. They succeed well in the cool green-
house, and do not need, nor will they stand,
forcing. Pot them in smallish pots in almost
any kind of light soil, and as the plants are most
abundant rooters, do not afford them a great
number of crocks as drainage. From June to
September the plants should be stood in a sunny
plunging bed of gravel or fine coal ashes, and be
well looked after in the matter of affording water
at the root and syringing the leaves. When
going out of flower cut back the older shoots
rather severely, and afford the plants but little
water for a few weeks, keeping them in a cold
frame in a half shady place. Useful varieties
are odoratum, riparium, and vernale. F. M.

ANTHURIUMS.

The recent introduction cf new varieties of
the well-known. Flamingo plant {Anthurium
Scherzerianum) into cultivation has not only
extended our list, but at the same time added
to the value of all previously introduced stove
plants suitable for decorative purposes. A.
Andreanum album, in habit of growth and shape
is a duplicate of the type, but the spathes are
ot a shining ivory white, continuing a long time
in perfection, a delightful acquisition to our
list of stove plants.

A. A. Roseum is of great value, the spathes be.
ing of a bright rose-pink colour, ornamented by

a tri-coloured spadix, the basal portion being
white, the centre golden, and the tip lemon-
green. A. A. salmoneum produces cordate-
shaped spathes of a clear salmon colour, the
corrugation in the spathe being well defined.
The basal half of the spadix is white, the apical
portion yellow. A. A. sanguineum is a fine
variety of the type, with rich, dark crimson
spathes, ornamented with a golden yellow
spadix, and shining as if varnished ; the spathes
are of good shape, and the corrugations are well
defined.

A. Scherzerianum maximum produces flower
spathes of intensely brilliant colour, measuring
9 inches in length and 4 in breadth. A. Scher-
zerianum roseum freely produces its well-
shaped, beautiful, rose-coloured spathes that
are flushed with salmon, a striking contrast to
the rich scarlet spathes of the type.

A. S. Sanguineum is a very distinct variety.
It differs from the type in the colour of its
spathes, which are of a deep blood-red or crim-
son colour.

Owing to the enduring nature of the spathes
the Anthuriums are desirable, as well as most
attractive, plants for the embellishment of plant-
stoves and conservatories, as they also are for
room and table decoration. The Anthuriums
mentioned above are easily grown. Young off-
shoots, with few roots, detached from estab-
lished clumps and potted up into well-drained
3-inch or 4i-inch pots, according to the size of
the plant, in peaty soil, with which some pul-
verised potsherds have been previously mixed,
will soon become established. Keep the crowns
of the plants in the centre of the pots well
above the rims of the receptacles, and make the
soil fairly firm in potting. Place the plants
in the > plant-stove or in any structure in
which a minimum atmospheric temperature of
65" is observed, and afford water to settle the
soil about the roots. Shift the plants into one
size larger pots before the roots become matted,
using the peat in a rougher state, with the ad-
dition of silver sand at each succeeding shift.
//. W. W.ird, RayUigh.

THE BULB GARDEN.
SOME BULBOUS IRISES.

Some of the bulbous Irises are among the love-
liest of our spring flowers, but unfortunately it is
not in every garden that they will succeed. An
ideal position for them is a sunny border in front
of a wall, facing due south and sheltered from the
north and east ; but even in such a site they often
fail to thrive, and die out in a year or two. A
high authority on these plants attributes this
failure to the use of leaf-mould in the compost,
and recommends the use of pure loam mixed with
a large proportion of coarse sand. Considerable
difference of opinion exists on the question of
lifting the bulbs after the foliage has withered, and
replanting in the autumn. One eminent autho-
rity advocates this course, two other equally
reliable experts advise the contrary.

Amongst the best garden species are : — ■

/. alata, sometimes known as the Scorpion Iris.
— This is a very early-flowering species, generally
blooming before Christmas. The blossoms are
lilac-blue, veined with a deeper shade, the falls
blotched with bright yellow. Diameter of flower,
four inches ; foliage leek-like. This is a very
uncertain bloomer, in some gardens refusing to
flower after the first year, though remaining in
perfect health.

7. retiadata. — This is the commonest of the early-
flowering bulbous Irises, and is a universal
favourite. The standards and falls are of a rich
violet shade, the falls bearing a deep golden
blotch. The flower-stems are often over a foot
in height, and the fragrant blossoms are from
three inches to four inches across. There is a

variety styled Major. It has larger blooms than
the type, and usually flowers early in March.

7. persica. — This is a very dwarf species, often
not more than two inches in height. The type
bears pale, greenish-blue flowers with a yellow-
blotch on the fall, and margined with a wide band
of deep violet, three inches in width. There are
many named varieties of this species.

7. Histrio. — This is now held to be a variety of
I. reticulata, though of very distinct appearance.
Flowers purple-blue, falls bearing a yellow blotch
and heavily spotted with violet. Diameter of
flower 3 to 4 inches. This is now over, having
bloomed in the first week of January.

7. histyioides. — Also a variety of I. reticulata.
Flowers purple, marked with bright blue blotches,
and spots, the falls bearing a narrow yellow band.
This also flowered early in January.

7. Heldyeichi, now known as I. stenophylla, is a
beautiful Iris, and one of the easiest to grow. The
flowers are variable in colour. In the dozen or so
blossoms now open considerable difference in tint
occurs. In one of the handsomest forms the
standards and falls are violet-purple with slight
white veining round the yellow band on the fall,
in others the standards are sky blue, and in still
others the falls are lavender margined with violet.
Diameter of flower 3 inches.

7. Rosenbachiana. — This is perhaps the most beau-
tiful of all the dwarf bulbous Irises, but, as in the
case of I. Heldreichi, it is very variable in colour.
In one flower the standards are lilac-blue, deepen-
ing into crimson at the base, and the falls are ter-
minated by a wide band of deep violet edged with
white. In another the falls and the standards are
maroon-crimson, the raised golden band on the
former being margined with pale blue heavily
spotted with violet. Diameter of flower 3 inches.

7. Dunforiiit. — A pretty little flower having bright
j'ellow standards and falls, the latter bearing a
narrow orange band surrounded by faint pencil-
lings of purple. Flowers 2 inches across. This
species is now in bloom.

7. Kolpakowikiana.- — The colour of the standards
in this species is lilac-blue, the falls being
purple-red with a narrow band of rich yellow,
and white veined violet at the base. Diameter of
the flower 3 inches.

7. Balieriaiia has bright lilac-blue flowers, the
falls of which are white splashed with purple and
edged with a broad band of the same colour.
Diameter of flower 3 inches.

7. Tauri. — Standards dark blue, falls purple-
black spotted with white around the central yellow
band. Diameter of flower 3^ inches. It is in
flower during February.

7. Warkyensis. — This is a member of the I.
orchioides group. The standards are blue, as are
also the upper portions of the falls, the extremities
of which are terminated with a broad blotch of
deep violet edged with white. Diameter ot flower
3 inches.

7. pavonia. — This, though popularly termed an
Iris, is not an Iris at all, its correct name being
Morsa glaucopis. It flowers in summer, the
flowers being whitish with a blotch of bright blue
at the base of the falls. The spathes carry several
flower-buds, which open consecutively.

In the same border with the Irises already
named is growing a very different species, and
one rarely met with in cultivation, namely, I.
cretensis. This has been in flower all through the
winter. Its blossoms are smaller and not so showy
as those of I. stylosa or unguicularis, to which
species it is believed to be allied. The standards
are lavender coloured, and the greater portion of
the falls is white veined with purple, while they
terminate with a blotch of lavender-blue about
half-an-inch in depth and edged with a narrow
margin of white. The blooms are about 3J inches
across.

172

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1906.

One other bulbous Iris I must allude to is grow-
ing in another part of the garden. This is I.
tingitana, and I am con%'inced by experience that,
whate\er may be the correct practice with regard
to the dwarf bulbous Irises, this species requires
annual lifting. Many find it impossible to flower
the Tangiers Iris, and I have known plants that
have grown 20 years in a garden without blooming.
In only one season have they failed to flower
with me, and that was when I had neglected to
lift them the preceding year. I lift as soon as the
foliage has died down and replant in very rich
soil at the end of October. A thick layer of rotten
manure is placed about g inches below the surface,
while old mushroom-bed manure is added liberally
to the upper soil. The bulbs are planted 3 inches
deep and are surrounded with sand. They
generally flower in March, but I have had blooms
as early as February. The blossoms are of lovely
appearance and very large, often measuring over
6 inches across. The standards are violet-blue,
and the falls a delicate French grey set off by the
glowing yellow of the central blotch. S. W.
Fitzherberi , S. Devon.

[Many of the species above named have been
figured in these pages.]

KEW NOTES.

Interesting Hardy Plants in Flower.
Encot-raged by the warm, bright weather that
we have experienced recently, many rare and
interesting plants have come into flower in the
Alpine house. The Crocus family supplies the
greatest proportion of colour, amongst the most
conspicuous being C. versicolor, C. ancyrensis,
C. Weldeni, in variety, and C. aureus. Chiono-
doxa also in its various forms helps to make the
house bright, along with Cyclamen coum,
Shortia galacifolia, and the double form of
Adonis amurensis. The latter is a most in-
teresting plant, with its curious flowers com-
posed of yellow and green series alternately ar-
ranged. The Androsaces are represented by A.
I.aggeri and A. ciliata. One of the prettiest
plants is Primula marginata, a native of the
.Alps of Dauphiny and Piedmont, with toothed,
mealy leaves, and clustered heads of pale mauve-
blue-coloured flowers. It is also one of the
easiest of Alpine Primulas to grow at Kew, thriv-
ing well in the rock garden planted in a sunny
fissure in the rock. There are also several Saxi-
fragas in flower, including S. Elizabethaex. This
is a plant of hybrid origin, having for its parents
S. sancta and S. burseriana. It somewhat re-
sembles the latter in general appearance, with-
out the glaucous colour of the foliage, but is of
closer and more tufted habit. Of very free
habit, it forms cushions of dark green foliage,
and bears pretty yellow flowers of the colour of
those of S. sancta. It was raised by and obtained
from F. Sundermann, of Lindau, in Bavaria about
four years ago. Also in flower is S. Ferdinandi-
Coburgi. This charming little species is a native
of Macedonia, where it is found at high eleva-
tions growing in rocky fissures and forming neat
tufts of somewhat silvery foliage. The flowers
are bright yellow, succeeding buds richly suf-
fused with red, and are borne on stems about
2 inches high. It is closely allied to the better-
known S. aretioides, but comes into flower
earlier, and promises to be easier to manage.
Another hybrid Saxifraga in flower is S.
Salomoni, a cross between S. Burseriana and S.
1-focheliana. It is of compact habit and free
growth, with tufted, glaucous foliage, like the
smaller forms of the former parent. The flowers
are more like those of S. Rocheli.ina, and are
produced three or four together on pubescent
stems about 2 inches high. The whole of the
stem and buds are suffused with pink, making
it a charming little plant. It was also raised
by F. Sundermann, and has proved more hardy
outside than S. Burseriana. S. scardica is a
native of the Balkan Peninsula, among other
places being found on Mount Scardus, in Al-

bania, whence it receives its specific name. It is
closely allied to S. Rocheliana, but comes into
flower some time before that species. It also
differs in its narrow, less spatulate leaves. Very
free flowering both in the rock garden and in
the Alpiiie house, it will probably become a
favourite plant when better known, as its flowers
are of good substance and last for a long time.
It has recently been figured in the Botanical
l\lagasinc, t. 8,058, and was also sent out by F.
Sundermann. Other Saxifragas in flower include
the red-flowered Macedonian S. Grisebachii and
S. porophylla.

On a sunny border at the foot of a south wall
are some hybrid Irises of the bulbous section in
flower, which were raised by C. G. van Tuber-
gen, Junr. I. purpureo-persica, a cross between
I. persica purpurea and I. persica, is a beautiful
plant, with very large flowers, rich ruby-red in
colour, with dark maroon falls and orange crest.
It is evidently of robust habit, very hardy, and
sweet-scented. I. sind-pur (I. sindjarensis X
persica purpurea), with robust habit like the
former, is very free flowering, producing several
flowers to each bulb. The flowers are large and
of good substance, dark lilac-mauve in colour,
with a light yellow crest. It is a valuable addi-
tion to an already numerous but charming family
of early-flowering plants. W . I.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)
The Royal Horticultural Society's
Exhibition of Table Decorations, &c.

Like "Decorator" (see page 140), 1 tliink the
exhibition the Society is going to hold on June 20
should prove very interesting and instructive to
those who have much of this kind of work to do
and who may be expected to visit the show for the
purpose of getting fresh ideas. The practice of
decorating tables appears to be increasing con-
tinually, and the ability to do this well forms an
important item in a gardener's qualifications. It
is most unfortunate that theR.H.S. Council should
fix the date for this show on the same day as that
on which the York Gala Exhibition will be held, it
being a pity that these two important shows should
clash. The York Show has been held about the
same date for many years, and cannot, I believe,
be altered, as the Gala rules the date for the show,
which must be well known to the Council of the
R.U.S.— Another Decorator.

Fumigation with Hydrocyanic Acid Gas.
— In spite of the danger this process entails, it is
assuredly an advance in the right direction, and
Mr. Dobson (see p. 85) is to be congratulated on
his experimental efforts. For a number of years
we were quite content to run the risks to our-
selves and plants by using the now " time ex-
pired " tobacco paper and rag, and we all hailed
with joy the advent of the solution of nicotine ;
and although this extract performs its work well,
care is necessary in its application. The same
will be required in the use of hydrocyanic acid
gas, but I anticipate a reduction of 50 per cent,
in the cost of fumigating. When this vaporiser
can be placed upon the market in a portable and
simplified form of application, gauged ready for
immediate use, it will be generally used not onlv
because it will be cheap, but because also it will
be extremely effective. W. 71. Clarke, Aston
Rowatit, Oxo/t.

The Late George Norman. — The note on
page 155 contains some inaccuracies which ought
not to pass uncorrected. lie commenced at Col-
worth Hall, Sharnbrook, Beds., at that time the
residence of — Magniac, Esq., M.P., the gardens
being under the charge of Mr. McKellar. From
this place he went to the Dell, Englefield Green,
the seat of Baron Schroeder, the gardens being
then — as now — under Mr. Ballantine's charge.
Mr. Norman always referred in pleasant words to
his stay there ; he looked upon Mr. Ballantine
with almost filial respect, and spoke very highly
of Baron Schroeder as an example of a good
and kind employer. After staying there a con-
siderable time, during which he rose to be fore-
man, he took a journeyman's place under the
late Zadok Stevens, at Trentham, where he had
charge of some of the vineries. There was a great
deal of work to be done at Trentham,

but Norman never objected to work. Each
journeyman had charge of his houses en-
tirely, Sundays and week-days, without change,
and was responsible to Mr. Stevens alone,
as there was no foremen kept. Stevens
did not mince matters. Norman has often
told me he did not get a chance to put on
his Sunday clothes for six months. He also told
me of one man in charge of the early vines who
had allowed the fermenting materiaron the bor-
der to get too hot. He was fetched out one
Sunday morning and made to turn the whole of
it over. But although the work was hard it was
a good school for those who could stand it.
After a time Norman's health began to suffer,
and he spoke to Mr. Stevens about making a
change. " Stop until I get my Strawberries
potted, and I will recommend you to Mr. Harry
Veitch," was the reply. He stopped as re-
quested ; but an attack of low fever, which laid
him up for six weeks, was the result. He re-
covered, and on December 11th, 1873, came to
Linton Park, Kent, as foreman. He soon made
alterations in the plants and indoor fruit trees.
Mr. Robson was head gardener, and left the
houses entirely in Norman's hands. Table decora-
tion was then a very important thing at Linton.
Norman had good taste and judgment in arrang-
ing flowers. Lady Holmesdale was very pleased
with what he did, and when a head gardener
v/as required at Hatfield in 1876 she personally
recommended him to the Marchioness of Salis-
bury. Hatfield Gardens were then in a very
rough state. Several head gardeners had only '
stayed a short time — Mr. Record for about three
years, then Mr. Bennett for another three years,
a Mr. Thomson for one year. Then another one
was engaged, but did not stay more than
one nig'nt ! I saw the gardens about three
months after Mr. Norman took charge, and
made a note in my diary at the time : June 26th,
1876 — " Things rougher than in any garden I
have ever seen." Nettles and thistles were grow-
ing all about the kitchen garden, and were
higher than the fruit bushes in some places.
Mr. Norman set to work with a will, He
soon altered the appearance of things, and
when I saw the place again in 1877 it looked
very different, and has steadily improved ever
since. Few people who are not acquainted with
the place can have any idea what the work
has been in cairj'ing on such a large garden
so well, under many difficulties, for thirty
years. Mr. Norman has succeeded where
several others failed. At one time a very strong
man, he did not spare himself in any w-ay, but
did the work of two men easily. He had the
satisfaction of knowing his work was appreciated
by his employers, which was a great help to
him. His thoroughness in all he did, and his
conscientious, straightforward character stand
out conspicuously. We shall miss his welcome
face and sound advice at the Royal Horticultural
Meetings. The Garden Charities will miss his
untiring exertions on their behalf. His em-
ployers say he cannot be replaced. All his
friends will miss him much, and none more than
his old friend — W. Ji. Divers.

Unusual Flowering of Ccelogyne cris-

tata. — I have just had the opportunity of seeing
a fine plant of Coclogyne cristata, and another of
C. cristata var. Lemoniana, cultivated at Broom-
field Lodge, Chelmsford, by Mr. Pragnell. which
are now in magnificent flower for tlie third time
within 13 months. The plants, which were origin-
ally in the possession of Mr. Warner, have been
grown at the cool end of a stove for some years,
being removed to the house when in flower and
kept slightly dry for a short time of rest. Last
March they bloomed profusely, again in the
autumn of last year, and are now a third time
covered with fine flowers. The unusual production
of more than one good crop of blossom within a
year has induced me to ask whether any readers of
the Gardeners' Chronicle have noticed a similar
thing, and, if so, under what conditions? Fred
Chittenden.

Rhododendron pr/ecox. — In the note upon
the early Rhododendrons at Leonardslee, I ob-
serve the statement so frequently made about R.
precox that its height is 3 to 4 feet. I do not
know what may be the limit of its height, but
I enclose a photograph of one fully 7 feet
high, taken in my o\in garden in Wigtownshire
last January, when the bush was in full flower.
It is a slow grower ; this one was planted nearly
25 years ago, but it still increases a few inches
in height every year. Herbert Maxivcll, Moiiieith.

Map.ch 17, laOC]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

IT;

Photinia serrulata. — At Pengreep, Corn-
wall, is a handsome specimen of this plant which
has been in flower for the past seven weeks. It is
one of the finest early-flowering sub-hardy plants
that I am acquainted with, and in districts where
the climate is suitable for its culture it is useful
for furnishing a supply of cut flowers. The latter,
which are borne on large corymbs, are pure
white, and remain in a fresh condition for some
days when cut. The young growths at this season
of the year are red, and when seen at a distance
might easily be mistaken for flowers. The speci-
men above referred to is 35 feet high and as much
through. It is growing m rich loam, and appears
to enjoy a sheltered, well-watered position. I^ur-
ther north than Cornwall or in an e.>;posed position
it would probably fail to develop its flowers
successfully. A good effect is produced by planting
Prunus Pissardi in the foreground with Photinia
serrulata behind H. W.,Ti evince.

A Destructive Bird.— The hawfinch does
more damage to garden Peas than sparrows,
slugs and mice combined. His wonderful dexterity
in riddling Peas is remarkable. The species, I
believe, is a native of Germany, but regularly
visits this country every summer. The birds ar-
rive in this locality at about the beginning of July,
and are well known by their peculiar "Twit-
twit," but more especially by their depredations
among the Peas. They pierce the pods opposite
the Peas with their powerful bills and take out the
Peas, leaving the pod hanging like a piece of torn
ribbon, and will go through the whole length of
the rows in a very short space of time. Last year
we had a flock of about a dozen, and they practi-
cally ruined all the early Peas, leaving nothing
but riddled pods. I was obliged to resort to
netting the main crop, with the result that I caught
seven, two fine specimens of which I have at the
present time in full song. Though I do not
advocate the slaughter of this beautiful bird, it is
absolutely necessary to take some means of pre-
caution to safeguard the Peas. Win. Brooksbiink,
Conislon Hull Gardens. Bell Busk, Leeds.

Foreign Apples. — In reference to Mr. J. S.
Fowley's note on p. 140, I may state that when
living in the near vicinity of London I have had
occasion to purchase many foreign Apples and
have frequently met with bad ones, and with two
cases in which 95 per cent, were bad and worth-
less, yet I paid the full and best price for selected
fruit. It is well known that British fruit will soon
decay if bruised. Great care should always be
exercised in gathering and storing Apples, then
decay is prevented. W. A. C. [On Saturday
last we saw .\pples in a fruiterer's shop which
had the appearance of being covered with mildew.
A closer inspection revealed the fact that they
had all been coated with, presumably, a salt of
copper. We purchased some of the fruit. On apply-
ing a test the identity of copper sulphate was
confirmed. The shopkeeper informed us that the
■' stuft " was put on the Apples to presers'e them
from rotting in transit. Sufficient of the salt was
in the depression round the stalk to cause incon-
venience to adults, and possibly danger to children
if eaten. We welcome and value these supplies
of foreign .\pples when we have none of our own,
but we must beware of these poisonous coatings.
—Ed.]

Apples. — The cry at the Fruit Committee
is " still they come." Probably some 50 Apples,
more or less of seedling character, have been
shown on the Fruit Committee's table during
the autumn and winter, and certainly no fewer
than a dozen of such came up on February 13.
It matters not that we have already 500 or
more varieties in existence all named. Any
moderate person might well imagine that 500 were
ample. Had all the seedlings or assumed seedlings
sent to the committee during the past 20 years,
and not getting recognition, been named, the
number might have been 1,000. There seems to
be a belief abroad that, with all our existing fine
varieties of Apples, there is still room for material
improvement. If only the commendations of
senders as written were to be credited, there is
not only great room for improvement, but their
special varieties have qualities which place them
far ahead of any others now in commerce. There
is evidently either great faith in personal esti-
mates of Apple excellence, or very little in the
capacity of the Fruit Committee to detect de-
ficiencies. Yet these wonderful swans com-
monly turn out to be but ordinary ducks. Not a
few are very handsome in appearance, indeed
quite merit the term " beautiful." They would

look so nice in a fruiterer's shop or on the dessert
table ; but the members of the committee are
practically minded persons who look not to ex-
ternals so much as to internal excellence, and
when an otherwise handsome apple is tested, in
how many cases is the flesh found to be dry or
flavourless ? At a recent meeting a sample of the
Spice apple, far indeed from being handsome, was
sent for the committee to taste. Although the fruit
was almost ugly, and the flesh firm, it was juicy
and rich flavoured. Will raisers of Apples not
concentrate their efforts on securing flavour more
and mere form or beauty less. Only a really
remarkable variety now can be said to excel all
others. If no better than others, of what value
is it ? Pumiiiitt.

Arundinaria nobilis. — A fine specimen of
this Bamboo is now flowering here, and several
young plants taken from it three years ago are also
in flower. According to precedent these plants are
doomed, but as they are flosvering thus early in
the year I am hoping they will ripen some seeds,
so we may not lose this beautiful species. A . C.
B., Pencarroii', Cornnall.

A French Market Garden at Evesham.^

It will be remembered that in January of last year
a number of Evesham market gardeners paid a
visit to Paris to see for themselves the methods
adopted by the French gardeners to produce Let-
tuce and other vegetables at a time when such
delicacies are not usually to be procured. The
Englishmen were very much struck with the effi-
ciency of the system carried out by the Frenchmen,
and studied with great interest the making of the
seed bed which, after all, is one of the most im-
portant parts of the business. At the same time
serious doubts were expressed as to whether it
would be possible to adopt this plan in England
with financial success, it being felt that the climate
was too humid and also that it was not possible to
obtain the same variety of Lettuce which the
Frenchmen grew. Consequently, of the score or
so of Evesham men wf j took the journey, only one
has experimented since his return. [!] This is Mr.
John Idiens, or rather the Avon Orchard Co., of
which he is the leading spirit. Mr. Idiens was
most enthusiastic about the matter, and on his
return he at once set to work to lay out a garden
on the approved French plan. He procured the
services of a practical Frenchman from Vitry, and
under his directions somewhere about two acres
on the Bengeworth side of the river Avon at Eve-
sham have been laid out m the approved French
way. I had the opportunity of going through
this garden last week and was very much struck
with what I saw. I might have been back at
Vitry again, everything is so French. There are
the low glass frames, and the cloches, and all the
implements which are to be seen about looking
strange to an Englishman. The seed bed has
been prepared as it is done in France, but, of
course, the soil has not got into the best condition
after only one year's working. It may be as well
perhaps to briefly state how this important work
is carried out. All the top soil is first of all re-
moved from where the frames are to be placed,
and a good thickness of stable manure is put here
to be covered with a coating of last year's soil.
As soon as the crops have been marketed, the
soil and manure are removed, made up into ridges
and allowed to rot till the following year, when
this forms the soil. As a consequence, every year
the soil used becomes more fertile. It says a
good deal for the natural productiveness of Eve-
sham land that such excellent results have been
produced in this garden after one year's working.
Messrs. Watkins and Simpson, the head of which
firm, Mr. C. D. Mackay, was mainly instrumental
in organising the Paris trip, soon procured the
right Lettuce seed, and when I visited the garden
the other day they were marketing Lettuce of good
size and excellent quality. These have been on
the market now for at least a month and are still
selling at is. 6d. a dozen. As in Paris, these Let-
tuces are in various stages of growth , and as soon as
one lot is cleared another lot will be ready. Those
that are being marketed are Cabbage Lettuces,
but it will not be long before some Cos varieties,
which are under the cloches, will be ready. In
the same frames Radishes are being pulled, and
these havo made up to 3s. a dozen bunches. Of
course Radishes grown in the open will not be on
the market for some little time yet. The French
foreman is very pleased with the Lettuce he is
now cutting, and assured me that no finer quality ^
Lettuce was to be found in France at the present
time. Turnips, Carrots and Cauliflowers are also in

various stages of advancement in the same frames
and will soon be ready. As to Cauliflowers, the
foreman told me, he should have first-class ones
ready early in April. That hardly looked likely
when I saw the plants last week, but he was certain
that he should accomplish it, and we shall see:
Tomato-growing is a special hobby of his, and he
had some last year grown in the frames as early
and as good as those grown in glasshouses after
the expenditure on artificial heat. All the heat he
gets is from the manure. The Tomato seed he
plants in a cool frame, and then he transplants
three times into heat. Every time he shifts the
plant he removes a certain portion of the root, and
by so doing he assures me that he gets a stronger,
although shorter, plant, and that the fruit comes
to maturity much earlier. He gave me a practical
illustration. He took a small plant from one of
the frames, and this particular plant had three
what may be called "spur roots." He pinched
oft the root so as to leave only one of these spurs
and then replanted. The next time of moving he
will remove more of the root. Cucumbers are
grown extensively in the frames, and last year
they sold exceedingly well, and were quite as
early as the greenhouse variety, and were also as
straight and free from discoloration. The fore-
man told me that Frenchmen laugh at the idea of
using artificial heat for the cultivation of Tomatos
and Cucumbers. Melons were tried last year with
great success, and are to be grown again this year
on a larger scale. Many gardeners of the district
and from long distances have been to see the
result of the experiment and express themselves as
very much impressed. Some of the principal men
of the Toddington Orchard Co. have paid more
than one visit to the garden, and I am told that
the system is to be given an extensive trial in
these plantations. The way the Lettuce and other
vegetables are sent into market is an object lesson
to local growers. I saw them packing Lettuces,
which are placed in small shallow crates carrying
two dozen, a dozen in a row, and between each
row paper is placed. There is no crushing, and the
Lettuces travel to their destination most securely,
and come out of the crate ready to go on the table.
It is the same with everything else sent away from
here, and there is no " topping." With regard to
the question of climate, I enquired from the
Frenchman most closely as to whether he found
more humidity here than in France, and therefore
a greater tendency to ■ ' damp off. ' ' He assured
me that there was no more tendency to this in
Evesham than at Vitry. The climate of the two
countries, he said, was very similar, but he added
that Evesham has not so much sun as Vitry. The
land, too, is first class, and he hopes in the course
of another year or so to have a seed bed of which
any Frenchman would be proud. There is no
lack of stable manure, and while he can obtain
that he has no fear of the result, but, as he told
me, "No muck, no Cucumbers." I am going to
watch the progress of the garden closely for the re-
mainder of the season, and will keep you informed
of what is going forward. H. H . b.

SOCIETIEIS.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

March e.—Presciil -. Dr. M. T. Masters,
F.R.S. (in the chair); Dr. Somerville ; Rev.
W. Wilks, M.A. ; Messrs. Worsley, Worsdell,
Massee, Michael, Odell, Gussow, Saunders,
Veitch, Hooper, Douglas, Bowles, Holmes, and
Chittenden (hon. sec).

Mealy Bug on Bananas. — Mr. Saundess re-
ported that the mealy bug on Bananas from
Jamaica, shown by Mr. Worsley at the last
meeting, appeared to belong to the same species
as the commonest of our greenhouse mealy bugs
(Dactylopius longispinus, D. adonidum, or
Coccus adonidum). d

Grubs in Ash .Stem. — Mr. Saunders also re-
ported that the Ash shoot from Dunmow, shown
at the last meeting, had been bored " by one
of the small fossorial Hymenoptera, probably
one of the many species of Crabro. These in-
sects iill the cells which they make with insects
to supply their grubs with food. Having
formed the cell and duly provisioned it, the
female lays an egg in it and seals it up and
forms another just above it, treats it as she did
the first, and goes on in this way until she
has completed her task. In this instance one
of the grubs had died before it had consumed

]74

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1906.

its stock of provisions, and the cell was more
than half-full of the remains of a number of
small Dipterous files ; from the other cells the
perfect insects had made their escape, and the
cells only contained empty pupa cases."

Variation in Narcissus, var. princefs. — Mr. E.
H. Jenkins, of Hampton Hill, sent specimens
of this well-known Narcissus having the corona
rontracted at the mouth. Dr. Masters said this
condition was due in all probability to
the plant having received some check during
its development, but exactly at what stage
and from what cause was not apparent.
The specimens differed from the typical
I'rinceps in being paler, both in the
corona ^nd perianth, but as Mr. Jenkins
pointed out, the height, flimsy perianth seg-
ments, flat stem and leafage, were unmistake-
ably those of N. Princeps. He also said that
he had been able to select from those he had
grown two pale yellow selfs, another with seg-
ments almost as white as in Horsfieldi, another
having much bigger bulbs than is usual in N.
I'rinceps, and still another which retains its
foliage when all others have disappeared ; all
these being apparently sports from N. Princeps.
Tn addition to this, a sport has been selected
having a frilled rim to the corona ; this has
proved constant and the stock is increasing.

Oranges Decaying. — Mr. Chittenden reported
that some Navel Oranges had been received
from the Western Orchards Produce Co., with
the request for some information as to the cause
of the rot that had set in. He had reported
that the Oranges are attacked by the fungus
Penicillium, a frequent cause of loss with
Oranges. The trouble usually appears after
the Oranges are packed and on their way to Eng-
land, and this appears to have been the case with
those sent. Navel Oranges are very frequently
attacked, the open eye of this fruit forming a
convenient place for the entry of the minute
fungus spores ; sometimes, indeed, they are in-
fected before th^ey leave the orchard, but more
frequently in the curing house. After packing,
the disease may spread throughout a box from
one fruit to the next.

The conditions for the growth of a fungus
such as this Tire, particularly, the presence of
moisture, warmth, and a suitable substance
upon which to grow. In the Navel Orange, a
drop of water will often condense in the open
end and there the fungus finds a very suitable
place for growth.

The best means of preventing the growth of
the fungus in the fruits appear to be as follows :
— (1) \\ rapping fruits in tissue paper, a means
which combined with some amount of ventila-
tion in the boxes, has proved, within certain
limits, valuable as a preventive of decay. (2)
Careful destruction of decaying fruit (by deep
burial or by fire) in the orchard or the packing
house, since by this means the number of spores
likely to be floating in the air will be greatly
reduced. (3) This should be combined with
disinfection of the packing houses, either by
thorough drying, by whitewashing or by burn-
ing sulphur therein.

Galls on Bramble. — Dr. Masters showed on
behalf of Mr. Nicholson galls on Bramble very
similar to those shown at the last meeting on
Ash and Birch, and caused, like them, by a
species of mite, Eriophyes.

Palm Leaves Diseased. — Dr. Masters also
showed some leaves of a Palm apparently
attacked by a fungus which Mr. Massee took to
examine.

Primula sinensis malformed. — Mr. Odell
showed specimens of this plant (intermediate be-
tween the "stellata" group and the ordinary
sinensis) having green or purple flowers in which
the calyx had become foliose, the ovary had
grown into a tube, but contained no ovules,
while the stamens were present. Dr. Masters
took them to examine further, and will report
upon them at the next meeting.

Pelargonium Leaves Diseased. — Mr. Massee
said that the leaves Mr. Worsley had shown
at the last meeting were not attacked by a
fungus, but that the brown spots upon them had
evidently been produced by a concentration of
water at these points owing to an interference
with proper transpiration. Chlorosis had also
occurred. It was found that watering with a 1
per cent, solution of sulphate of iron and the
standing of the plant in abundant light would

cause growth to proceed in a proper and
healthy manner.

Beetle Grubs in Elm Bark. — Lieut. -Col.
Rogers sent Elm bark bored by the grubs of a
beetle, which Mr. G. S. Saunders took to ex-
amine further.

Hardy Eucalyptus. — Messrs. Treseder &
Co., of Truro, sent branches of a Eucalyptus
from their nursery, an introduction from Aus-
tralia, which they say has stood 20° of frost
without injury. Some account of the tree it;
given in Gardeners' Chronicle (July I, 1905, p. 3),
with a figure of the young state, which is some-
what like that of E. cordata. Messrs. Treseder
have coined the name Eucalyptus Beau-
champiana for this form, but is is probably
referable to E. cinerea, F. v. Muell, see Bentham
"Flora Australiensis," iii., 239 [E. pulverulenta
is clo'iely allied, if not identical]. In the mature
state the leaves are linear lanceolate, of a glau-
cous green with a reddish tinge and about 3
incnes long.

Soil Uncongenial. — A sample of soil with roots
of plants quite dead or dying was received.
On using the soil a second time after rest, it
was found that the roots of Cucumbers, Melons,
Violets, Tomatos, Roman Hyacinths, etc., were
quite destroyed. Mr. Chittenden said he had
tested the soil, and found that it contained
abundance of lime, so that the death of the roots
could not be put down to soil acidity. Mr.
Douglas pointed out that there were pieces of
clinker and cinder in the soil, and the presence
of these suggested sulphur as a possible cause of
injury.

Cultures of Nodule Bacteria. — Mr. Chitten-
den said that experiments had been carried out
in Essex durmg the past year witn cultures of
nodule bacteria from America and Germany on
Beans, Peas, Lucerne, Clover, etc., but in every
case without yielding any increase in crop either
in pot cultures, or in the field, in spite of the
fact that in every case the cultures were proved
by means of control cultures to be alive and
capable of vigorous growth. Dr. Somerville
said that this had been the experience through-
out the country, just as it had with " nitragin "
a few years ago.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT

AND PROVIDENT.

March 12. — The annual general meeting of the
above society was held at the Royal Horticul-
tural Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, on the
above date. The general business was preceded
by a special meeting, presided over by Mr. H. B.
Mav, to consider the adoption of the new rules
as revised by the committee. The recommenda-
tions of this body were accepted with slight
alterations, arising from the recommendations of
the actuary in his quinquennial valuation. The
actuary, in his report, also said in regard to the
weekly grants paid from the Benevolent Fund,
"7s. and 83., as at present granted, are too high,
and I would recommend that the allowance
should in no case exceed 5s. weekly to every
member coming on the fund in future." It was
decided by the meeting to retain the rule as at
present, which reads, " hot more than 8s. per
week." Mr. May was again elected to the chair
at the meeting held at 8 o'clock, about 40 mem-
bers being present. The report and balance-
sheet were presented, and of these we give the
following extracts: —

Extracts from the Report of the Committee
FOR 1905.

" Each year the society increases in usef-.il-
ness, as it also does in numbers. Financially the
society is sounder than ever, and its member-
ship is such as to give the committee and mem-
bers the greatest possible encouragement for
continuing and extending their efforts to induce
gardeners to join early in life and secure to the
full the many advantages the society offers.

" For several years the annual addition of new
members was about eighty, and once ninety was
reached, but during the past year no less than
120 new members were elected, by far the largest
number elected in one year. The losses during
the same period consisted of ten deceased and
twenty-three lapsed members, the net increase
being therefore eighty-seven, leaving the total
membership at the end of the year at 1,163.
•■ In sick pav the sum of £401 17s. was paid

out during the year, while payments from the
Benevolent Fund amounted to £134 4s., and
from the Convalescent Fund, £3 10s. The sick
pay deductions amount to 8s. 4d. for higher
scale members, and 6s. 6d. for lower scale mem-
bers. Eighty-nine members received sick pay ;
ten members received assistance from the Bene-
volent Fund, and three from the Convalescent
Fund during the year.

" The sum of £2,200 was invested during the
year, and in this connection the committee
wishes to once more record its high appreciation
of the services so long and ably rendered to the
society b}' its treasurer, Mr. James Hudson,
V.M.H.

" The annual dinner was again a success ; it
was held at the Holborn Restaurant, and pre-
sided over by William Marshall, Esq., V.M.H.,
who did more than any one other person to
found the society.

" After long and careful consideratioH by the
committee, and with the kindly assistance of
W. A. Bilney, Esq., the rules of the society have
been revised, and placed in better order relative
to each other, altered in some cases, and slightly
added to. It is hoped that, subject to confirma-
tion by the special general meeting and the
Registrar General, these rules will serve for
many years to come. It is also believed that
the opportunity the alterations afford for a mem-
ber to draw upon his deposit account to a
limited extent under special circumstances, and
the transfer of chronic sick cases from the Bene-
volent Fund to the Sick Fund — the chief altera-
tions— will in the first place be an additional
inducement to young gardeners to join, and in
the second be the means of further strengthening
the fund that provides for infirm old age.

" During the year, in fulfilment of the require-
ments of the Friendly Societies' Act, the quin-
quennial valuation of the society was taken.
The valuation was again made by Mr. Thomas
G. Ackland, and his report will be printed and
circulated in the society's usual annual publica-
tion. But one or two sentences in the valuation
report are deserving of special emphasis. Mr.
Ackland points out that according to the ac-
tuarial tables, £3,590 should have been paid for
sick benefit during the previous five years,
whereas the amount actually paid ' was £1,531,
or about 43 per cent, of the expectation. The
remarkably light rate of sickness thus sFiown
doubtless arises from the healthy occupation of
the members, and from their careful selection ;
and the society is to be congratulated upon the
result.' Referring to the Benevolent Fund, Mr.
Ackland points out that if half the members
estimated to reach the age of seventy years
' come on the fund, the continuous allowance
should not exceed 5s. weekly,' and he urges
that no higher allowance than 5s. per week
chould be granted in future.

" Mr. Ackland heartily commends the
gradually increasing Depreciation Fund, and re-
commends that every effort should be made to
raise it to an amount equal to the difference
between the nominal and the market values of
the stocks in which the monies of the society are
invested. £26,800 is now invested, which aver-
ages over £20 per member."

The chairman complimented the members
upon the sturdy independence shown by them in
not relying upon the nation for old age pensions,
but in providing their own.

The adoption of the report and balance-sheet
was carried unanimously. Messrs. Winter,
Hemsley, and Hawes, the three retiring members
of the committee, were all re-elected, while Mr.
Frogbrook was selected to fill the place of Mr.
Keif, who wished to retire.

Mr. William Collins was again elected
secretary.

SOCIETES ROY ALES DE FLORE ET
LINNEENNE.

Brussels, February iS. — The last meeting was
held on the above date, 29 members of the jury being
present, amongst them M. Truffaut, from Ver-
sailles, and the two French Orchidophiles, Messrs.
Le Moinier and Fanyan.

Four Diplomas of Honour, 49 certificates, and
17 honorary mentions were awarded, and several
Orchids will be painted for the stud book.

We may also mention Debregeasia velutina, an
extraordinary plant in full bloom, Cynorchis
Kewensis, exhibited from the Brussels Botanic
Garden ; also Pteris Grevilleana variegata, Pteris
generosa, from M. Draps-Dom. L. G.

March 17, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

iO

SHROPSHIRE HORTICULTURAL.

(Annoal Meeting.)

March 2.— At the annual meeting of this society,
held on the above date, the committee had another
marvellous year's record to add to their already
remarkable list. The total receipts from the
great floral fete in The Quarry this year reached
/5,238 Cs. iid. — a record, the highest sum taken
hitherto being /j.ooi in 1902. The Mayor (Coun-
cillor R. E. Jones) was voted to the chair.

The report stated that the first day of the
summer show in August proved very wet. and
there was a falling off in the amount taken at the
gates. The second day fully made up for it. and
resulted in the highest amount taken in a period of
thirty one years, the total receipts from all sources
amounting to the large sum of £5,2^8 6s. iid.
against those of 1902, hitherto the largest,
/5.001 15s. 5d, The following figures in expla-
nation will be interesting : — Subscriptions. 1905.
/507 2s., against £4ii iSs. in 1902 ; cheap tickets,
£$ig i8s. 2d., against ^428 iis. 4d. ; first day
gates, ^873 7s. 4d., against ^'1,004 i6s. 3d. ;
second day gates, ^2,229 i8s. 3d., against
£i,<ji8 5s. ; sundry receipts, including interest,
^I,r48 IS. 2d., against /i,2i6 4s. rod. The
entries received in the classes for horticultural
exhibits re:ch;d nearly 3,000, being some 200 in
excess of ai y previous year, thereby necessitating
an increase in tent accommodation. The society
enjoyed the happy position of always having made
a profit, and never once a loss since its formation
in 1875. The committee had had under con-
sideration the present position of the society with
regard to their landed and other property, and
were now being advised as to the best course to
adopt.

The balance sheet showed a profit on the sum-
mer show of ;^1.020.

.\lderman Peele moved the adoption of the re-
port and balance sheet, which was carried unani-
mously. He congratulated the members on the
strong financial position of the society and. amid
cheers, recalled the contribution the society made
last year of ;f 1,000 towards the purchase of the
Priory property that had been added to The Quarry
grounds, an improvement, said Alderman Peele,
that he had no doubt the public would appreciate.

Mr. Peele moved, amid applause, the election
as president of Mr. Alfred Darby of Little Ness,
the new high sheriff for the county. Mr. Darby
had been an exhibitor at the show for many years,
and took a keen interest in it.

Mr. J. D. Southam touchingly referred to the
death of their friend, Mr. William Phillips, who
was their treasurer from the time of the starting
of the show. He moved that Mr. Phillips's
nephew, Mr. Wm. Phillips, be elected to the
vacancy. In the death of Mr. Phillips, their late
treasurer, the society had had a severe loss. Mr.
Wm. Adams seconded the motion which was
carried.

The retiring members of the committee, together
with the Mayor were all re-elected.

Messrs. Adnitt and Naunton will continue to act
as honorary secretaries.

The total takings of this society, since its first
show in 1875, amount to £f)i,Tgj 15s. 7d.. and the
list of donations to various public improvements
and monuments in Shrewsbury reaches the muni-
ficent sum of /8.530.

©bituarj)*

COVENTRY CHRYSANTHEMUM AND
FLORICULTURAL.

March g. — The Coventry and District Chrys-
anthemum and Floricultural Society held its
annual meeting on the above date, the Mayor
(Aid. A. H. Drinkwater) presiding. The annual
report stated that the committee had the satisfac-
tion of recording the fact that the last exhibition
was the best ever held. The show was held in the
Baths Assembly Hall, which lent itself admirably
for the purpose. The committee regretted to
report there was a slight falling off in the balance.
This was accounted for by several circumstances,
among them being a change in the place where
the show was held, the fact that the subscriptions
were less than in the previous year, and the prize
money being more than usual. The balance-sheet
showed that the amount brought forward from 1904
was ;^i2 <5s. 4d., and at the end of 1905 this had
decreased to £j 5s. 6d. The subscriptions
amounted to ^46 t6s., and the cash taken at the
doors and from tickets sold was/'47 los. The prize
money totalled £^^ us. Mr. W. T. Browett was
elected treasurer, and Mr. W. T. Brown, secretary.

James Allen. — It was with deep regret that I
learned through a letter from Miss Allen that
Mr. James Allen, of Highfield, Shepton Mallet,
died there, at an advanced age. on Marcli 8.

Mr. Allen was for many years interested in Snow-
drops, and by hybridising and selection he has
given us many remarkably beautiful varieties of
these early flowers. His work among the Snow-
drops has long been well known, and the
paper he read at the Conference of the Royal
Horticultural Society in March. i8gi, attracted
considerable attention. It was about that time
that I had the pleasure of entering into correspon-
dence with Mr. Allen. The last communication
I had from him, in his handwriting, was a long
and valuable pencilled note containing his obser-
vations upon some of the flowers of his raising
and selection. This was in 1903, and is the last
of a long series of deeply interesting letters in ray
possession which tell much of his work, and which
reveal his true love for, and knowledge of, his
flowers. I am also the fortunate possessor of
a number of his flowers, although Snowdrop
disease and my removal from Carsethorn cause
me to regret the loss of some choice plants.

Although Mr. Allen's work is best known
through his Snowdrops, heimproved other flowers.
A series of Anemones, derived directly or througli
the variety Robinsoniana from Anemone nemorosa,
will, in time, keep Mr. Allen's memory even
fresher than his Snowdrops. One may mention
as two of the best A. n. Alleni and A. n. Romance,
while there are several others of great beauty. In
Scillas also Mr. Allen worked to secure good red
varieties of S. bifolia. One of these is called Pink
Queen and another is Pink Beauty, both of which
are very fine of their kind. A pretty white variety,
much superior to the ordinary white form of S.
bifolia. was also raised. The hybrid Chionoscillas
he raised are very beautiful also. Crocus iridi-
folius in his hands yielded some fine varieties of
the type of C. iridiflorus major, and a selected
Erythronium called "The Queen " is the best of
the Dens-Canis varieties we have. Mr. Allen also
selected several Narcissi. All this was done for
pure love of flowers, for Mr Allen was a man of
considerable means who carried on this work for
pleasure alone. He was a delightful correspon-
dent, and, clouded though his last years were by
illness and helplessness, his cheerfulness was
wonderfully maintained. But a short time before
his illness took a more acute form, Mr. and Mrs.
Allen celebrated their golden wedding. All who
had the pleasure of Mr. Allen's acquaintance will
join with the writer in expressing their deep sym-
pathy for his widow and family. S. Aiiiott, Stmiiy-
mead, Dumfries.

Henry Ernest Milner. — It is with great re-
gret that we have to announce the death, on the
10th inst., in his 61st year, of this gentleman, at
Gipsy Hill, Norwood. He was the distinguished
son of a distinguished father, and an admirable
representative of English landscape gardening.
With vast experience at home and abroad, he
combined good taste and judgment, knowing
how to make the best of the conditions afforded
hira and how to adapt his plans to the surround-
ings, for, as he said, " fitness to surrounding
conditions is a measure of beauty to both." In
this way he avoided the extremes of the
formalists and the occasional incongruities of
the picturesque designer. "It is the province
of the landscape gardener," says Mr. Milner in
his classical work on the "Art and Practice of
Landscape Gardening," " to appreciate the mul-
titudinous means whereby Nature expresses her
beauty, and so to use those means artistically as
to arrange their force for producing the delight-
ful result he desires to achieve. To servilely
copy Nature's forms is to incur the pettiness of
mere reproduction in little, with the penalty of
a falsification. To utilise her means and to let
the spirit of her works influence her art in every
practicable way is the true practice of the art of
landscape gardening." By many of our readers

Mr. Milner will be remembered for his connec-
tion with the Earl's Court K.xhibitions in 1892,
where he came in contact with many gardeners
and others who quickly learnt to appreciate not
only his skill but his charming personality. Mr.
Milner was one of the first upon whom the Vic
toria Medal of Honour was conferred, so that his
death leaves a vacancy in the ranks ot the dis-
tinguished company entitled to call themselves
y.lVI.H. Mr. Milner was of Derbyshire extrac-
tion, his father having been associated with Sir
Joseph Paxton at the Crystal Pala(;fi,and else-
where. Among the very numerous English gar-
dens constructed or remodelled by him we may
mention Bagshot Park, Friar Park, Paddock-
hurst, the Buxton public gardens, as well as
works in Hungary and Sweden.

The management of the business in which Mr.
Milner was interested has been for some years
in the hands of Mr. E. B. Milner and Mr. Ed-
ward White, and will be continued by them.

William Sowerby.— Manyof our readers will
hear with regret of the death of William Sowerby,
for many years Secretary of the Royal Botanic
Society. Deceased, who died on the 9th inst. at
Gardenhurst, Ware, was the son of John E.
Sowerby, and inherited the family talent for
draughtsmanship.

Mr. Thomas Kennedy Newbigging. — It is

with regret that we have to announce the death of
Mr. Thomas Kennedy Newbigging. the head of
the firm of Messrs. Thomas Kennedy & Co., nur-
serymen and seedsmen. Dumfries, which sad event
took place at his residence. Stewart Hall, Dum-
fries, after a short illness. Mr. Newbigging was
in the prime of life, and his death will be a surprise
to many, as, although not very robust in late
years, he was looking well and was transacting
business as usual until lately, He was attacked by
pneumonia, and succumbed to it early on the
morning of March 14.

Mr. Newbigging was well known to a wide
circle of horticulturists and others, although for
long his attention was much taken up with the
eitensive farm seed department of the business,
until the death of his brother, Mr. John New-
bigging. which was recorded in these pases last
April, compelled him to exercise a supervision
over the other departments, a duty he performed
with his customary energy and ability.

The business of which Mr. Newbigging has
latterly been the sole member has been for manv
years the leading one of its kind in the south-west
of Scotland, the various departments of the nur-
sery and seed trade being all of an extensive
character, forest trees, ornamental shrubs, and
other nursery stock]being grownt n great quantities
Originally established by a relative, the business
was for long carried on by the late Mr. New-
bigging, father of the now departed gentleman,
and Mr. Robert Cowan, who again were succeeded
by Mr. T. K. and Mr. J. Newbigging, descendants
of the original founder of the firm.

Although somewhat brusque in manner at times,
he was of a genial and social disposition, and was
a favourite with all who knew him. Mr. New-
bigging is survived by his wife and several
young children, and general sympathy will be
extended to them in their bereavement.

National Fruit Growers' Federation. —

Ihe monthly meeting of the Council was held
at the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square,
Westm.inster, on Monday, the i2th instant.
Col. C. W. Long, M.P., presided. Important
correspondence on the subject of rebates on
large consignments of fruits and vegetables on
the Kentish lines having been read, it was de-
cided that all members concerned should be
made acquainted with the conditions under
which they can obtain the reductions of 10 and
13 per cent. The question of how best to fur-
ther the carrying out of the recommendations of
the Departmental Committee on Fruit Culture
was discussed at length, and finally it was
decided that a deputation to the Board of Agri.
culture should be arranged, and that the selec.
tion of points to be specially urged should be
the principal subject of discussion at the annual
general meeting in May. The Bill which has
been drafted by the Joint Railway and Parlia-
mentary Committee was briefly explained by the
Chairman, and many of its provisions were
highly approved. The next Council meeting
was fixed for ^ilonday, April 2nd, at 2 p.m.

176

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 17, 1906.

ENQUIRIES AND REPLIES.

PiNUs Malletti. — In answer to an enquiry as
to tills Pine, February 3, p. 80, I may say that it
is in my opinion nothing but a robust form of P.
ponderosa. The history of the plant, so far as it
is known, is given in my " Coniferes et Taxac^es "
(1902), p. 186, and was based upon information
given me directly by Baron Mallet of Jouy en
Josas. S. Mottet, Verriires le Buisson.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Acalvpha: Diilwich. The leaves are affected
with a scale like mealy bug. Treat the plants as
you would do to rid them of mealy bug.

.Calceolarias: P. A. We suppose you mean
Calceolarias of the shrubby section, and such
as are generally used for bedding out. The
usual method of propagation is by cuttings, but
if seedlings are raised the seeds are generally
sown in February, in a frame or greenhouse.
When planting them in the open put them in
good soil that has been enriched with well-
rotted manure, selecting a half-shady position.

Clover: C.G. The Clover is killed by the fun-
gus called Sclerotinia trifoliorum. The disease
comes under the designation of "Clover sick-
ness." The little black lumps on the root are
sclerotia. These remain in the ground and in-
fect plants the following season. In fact, they
are known to retain their vitality for four years.
Deep ploughing is useful, because it buries the
sclerotia and destroys them. No leguminous
,crop should be grown on infected land for four
years afterwards, and weeds belonging to the
same natural order should be kept down.

Commercial Gardening: A. P. B. You ask us
what branch of market gardening is the best to
take up : the growth of plants, flowers, fruits or
vegetables. Also, what amount of income you
could expect from each, and the capital that
would be required to commence with. You
omit to state in what part of the country you
thought of settling, what size nursery you ex-
pected to purchase, and we have no means of
estimating the business capacity you possess ;
but instead of giving us such information, you
enquire where you may obtain what professional
experience would be necessary ! In these cir-
cumstances we can offer you very little advice.
If you are a young man (you do not state your
age) and have serious thoughts of entering into
the field of commercial horticulture, let no
time be lost before getting employment in a
first-class market-garden, where indoor and
outdoor crops are cultivated, and, after you have
gained some practical experience as a gardener

. and an insight into the general methods of
market-gardening, it will be sufficient time for
you to choose of which class of culture you
will make a speciality. Some amateurs have
succeeded exceedingly well as market-growers,
but the practice of embarkinf ', a profession
or trade without sufficient praccal experience
is at least dangerous, and its adoption may lead
to financial ruin.

Crocus : Mrs. S. E. . Yellow Snowdrops do oc-
casionally produce seed, but why they are less
fertile than other varieties we do not know.
Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnation being so
double could hardly be expected to produce
much pollen, or perhaps always a pistil, but
hybridisers have, we believe, succeeded in
crossing this section with other sections of Car-
nations, for there are now many varieties. The
hybridiser, however, can make successful use
of means that, if unaided, would not be sufficient
to bring about fertilisation.

Dendroeium Wardianum Buds Immatured: A.
E. M. Several causes may produce similar bad
results. As a rule, buds go off in that manner
if the plants are kept in an atmosphere that is
too hot, close, and moist after the first flowers
begin to expand. Such treatment is conducive
to growth for the next year, and consequently

. detrimental to the flowers. The plants require
a tolerably dry atmosphere while expanding the
blooms. Watering overhead or syringing will
sometimes produce the bad results complained
of. So will bad gases in the air, such as
might arise from drains, or a gas-stove, or from

the plants being in close proximity to the hcl-
water pipes.

Douglas Fir: W. G. The appearances are con-
sistent with some faulty detail in transplanti'ig ;
but we will let you know more fully later on.

Fruit Trees and Canker ; M. M. N. Old lime
rubble is excellent material for mixing with turf
u;edwhen planting fruit trees, and we do not
think a layer several inches deep if put at the
bottom of the holes would have a bad effect,
especially as older trees in the same garden
suffer badly from canker. At the same time,
much depends upon the conditions under which
planting is done. If it is a clay subsoil through
which water can scarcely pass, the layer of
mortar rubble would be likely to collect and
hold the surplus water from the surface soil,
and unless means were taken to prevent the
roots getting into this water holding rubble,
harm would certainly be caused them. The
better plan in such a case would be to carry out
a system of draining with a pipe leading from
below each tree into larger pipes laid in the
centre between the rows of trees. Having thus
placed drain pipes on the clay to take away the
water as it accumulates, and rough mortar
rubble and other good drainage material between
the roots of the trees and the water pipes, the
soil about the roots will be kept in good con-
dition and the roots confined to a thoroughly
drained area. But if the subsoil is porous, then
the use of the rubble may have good results,
and in any case it will not affect injuriously the
quality of the fruits.

Grafting Vines : Anxious. March is the best
month in which to graft the Vine. Make a
careful selection of the scions, choosing those
which are hard, well ripened, and contain but
very little pith, as success will much depend
upon the quality of the scions. If the operation
is to be done on one of the spurs, this spur
should have been left sufficiently long for the
purpose. The scion ought to be of about tlie
same size as the spur. Whip grafting is the
better method to employ, and the union of stock
and scion should be made to fit perfectly. Secure
these together firmly, either with budding cotton
or raffia. In order to prevent possible bleeding
cover the operated part with a dressing of notting
or grafting wax. The operation will be the
more successful if the point of union is clayed
over in a similar manner to that generally
adopted when grafting is done out of doors.
The parts can afterwards be kept at an equable
temperature, and the clay prevented from
cracking by a covering of moss secured in posi-
tion with string, and kept in a moist condition
by occasional damping.

How TO Become a Pupil to Florist : 5. F. D.H .
We imagine it would be quite easy to obtain
such a position, but you must first advertise the
fact that you are anxious to fill a vacancy of the
kind. Scan the advertisement columns also, for
occasionally florists have some difficulty in
meeting with suitable apprentices.

Lawn and Flower Border: K. A. It is fre-
quently the case that small lawns in more or
less confined areas in towns cause their owners
considerable trouble, and the conditions being
quite unsuitable for the growth of Grasses the
result is not surprising. We have found that it
is best to make up one's mind to sow seeds
every spring, and if this is done, and every care
taken afterwards to encourage the Grasses, the
lawn may be made to appear in first-class con-
dition, at least during the summer and autumn
months. Cut the Grass rather close, then apply
a thin top-dressing of light soil to which lias
been mi.xed a little nitrogenous manure. Rake
this over evenly and roll it moderately hard.
When this has been done sow seeds at the
earliest Opportunity wherever the Grass appears
to be thin and cover very thinly, or not at
all, as may seem desirable. In urban gardens
the Sparrows are usually so daring that a
slight covering over the seeds is to be recom-
mended. The position you describe appears to
be very unsuitable for Roses, which certainly
require sunshine. If the sun's rays do not
reach the wall at all you had better plant
varieties of Ivy. The border may be planted
with strong - growing herbaceous plants, as
Phloxes, Dahlias, perennial Asters (Michaelmas
Daisies), Anemone japonica, perennial Sun-
flowers, Solidagos, &c. In the summer the effect

could be further brightened by planting a few
tender bedding plants where there is room for
them.

" Loco " : R. C. H. The " Loco " is Astragalus
mollissimus. We do not think the poison is a
quality possessed by the plant itself, but is a
ferment developed m it from force of circum-
stance.

Muriate of Potash : E. S. This form of potash
is very extensively used in America for appli-
cations to fruit trees, but it has not found so
much favour in England, the fact being that it
is a chloride, and so sets the lime of the soil
free, which thus gets washed away by heavy
rains or artificial waterings. For soils that are
deficient in lime (chalk) muriate of potash is not
to be recommended, unless lime in some form
be also added. As your soil is stated to be a
"rather heavy garden soil," presumably con-
taining a considerable amount of clay, and not,
therefore, altogether deficient in lime, you may
be recommended to use a manurial mixture of
three parts of basic slag and two parts of
muriate of potash for your Apple or other fruit
trees. Apply 8 ounces of the mixture per square
yard, distributing the manure tor about 3 or
4 feet from the trunk of the trees, and well
fork in. If there is any doubt as to a sufficiency
of lime in the soil, use sulphate of potash instead
of the muriate, and in the same proportions,
and with the basic slag. If any difficulty exists
in procuring small quantities of basic slag, super-
phosphate may be used in its place, mixing in
also one part of quicklime.

Names of Fruits: G. Monro. We think your
Pear is " Flemish Beauty," or possibly it might
be " Directeur Hardy," both are very much alike.
You will understand how difficult it is to name
Colonial grown fruits, and for several reasons, but
principally that almost all English grown Pears
are now past, and comparison with them therefore
cannot be made.

Names of Plants : C. IF. S. Oclina multiflora.
— F. S. (from last week), i, Quercus Ilex var.
macrophylla. — A. B., Tamwurth. Coelogyne
cristata, Chatsworth variety. When well-grown
it often produces two flower-spikes from a single
pseudo-bulb. — P. S. A seedling form from K.
arboreum. We do not know if it has a distinct
name or not. — A. E. B. 6, Genista hispanica.

Odontoglossums : H. T. Pitt. ■ We thank yoa
for the examples of rare Odontoglossum flowers.
O. Wilckeanum, Pitt's variety, is certainly a very
remarkable form.

Palm Leaves ; W. Y. X. It is not unusual for
Palms to ha\e the leaves turn brown in winter
as shown on your specimen, especially if they
have been used for indoor or conservatory
decoration. Repot the plants and induce them
to make fresh leaves.

Peaches : C. /. C. Your trees are affected with
the "silver leaf" disease, supposed to be due to
a fungus. Cut the shoots back ; perhaps the
new shoots will come healthy, but we greatly
doubt it. Water with a weak solution of iron
sulphate, using ^ ounce of the iron salt to 2
gallons of water.

Tomatos : T. H. G. We expect that failure has
resulted from lack of sufficient ventilation, and
of exposure to the sun's rays. Tomatos must
be given no shading at all. Let the plants be
planted in very firm and only moderately rich
soil, then you will be able to obtain short-
jointed growths that will flower freely. Keep
each plant to a single stem by pinching off all
laterals at the first leaf. You may cultivate the
plants in pots, or in the border, but do not
permit Cucumbers or anything else to shade
them.

Violets: Diilwicli. The Violet disease so often
described and figured in these columns. Burn
the old plants and plant fresh stock in a fresh
portion of the ground.

Communications Received. — W. H. C. (We were aware of
the quotation, but there is no mention in it of the worJ
"pips")— F. M.— T. J., .'\berdeen-F. J. C— O. T.— Sir
H. M.— T. S.— A. O.— R. C— J. Harrison.— D. (with
thanks).— G. H. T.— L. P.— J. M. (We are glad you lilted
the illustration)- Sir E. L.-E. W.— J. M.— W. P. W.—
H. J. E.-IC. &Co.— J. H.— H. S. -R. !•■- T. J. H.— C. D.
— C. R. F.— J. E.— W. S.— J. T. B.— G. M. S.— R. W. D.—
H. W. W.— V. H. L.— H. M.-D. R. W.— T. H.— H. F.
MacM.,Ceylon— G. T.— J.M.— C.R.— J. H.— Harris (leUec
and telegram)— R. H.— F. M.— J. G.

For Market and Weather Reports, sec page svi.

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March 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

177

THE

#iirbcnersUbrouitle

No. 1,004.— SATURDAY, March 24, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Agriculture in the sand

deserts 185

Birds and Peas 189

Boilers, Greenhouse ... 188
Carnations, Tree ... 180

Chinese Note Book,

Leaves from my ... 179
Cotton plants and wee-
vils 185

Cultural Memoranda—
Ginelina Hyslris ... 179
Nidularium Innoccnti

striatum 179

Daffodil, the advent of

the 178

riowers in season ... 184
I-'orestry —
Climate and tree

growth 181

Garden pests, models of 185
Hippeastrum, the ... 177
Horticultural education
in Monmouthshire ... 184

Kew notes 186

Larch, a new species of 178
Mendel's laws of in-
heritance 187

Nursery notes —

T. Rivers & Son's ... 187
Obituary —

ICercbove, Count de ... 194
Orchids, hybrid 191

Plants, new or note-
worthy—

Dendrobium Wilsoni
Primula Fortune!

Poisonous compounds,
law relating lo the
sale of

Protection of crops from
frost, the

Sandringham, the
"Dell" at

Seeds, packing of, for
tlie tropics

Smith, Thomas, V.M.H.

Societies —
Horticultural Club ...
Manchester and North
of England Orchid
National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural ...

Trees and Shrubs-
Group planting of
Conifers

Vines, hybrid ...

Week's Work, the—
Flower garden, the
Fruits under glass
Hardy fruit garden
Kitchen garden, the
Orchid houses, the
Plants under glass

185
185

185

1E6

184

199
186

192

179
185

183
183
183
183

182
182

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Carnation Elliott's Queen

Carnation Nelson Fisher

Kerchove, Comte de, the late ... ... •• —

Larix Potanini, a newly introduced Chmese Larch ...
Smith, Thomas, V.M.H. .portrait of ... ■-.■;•
View in " The Dell" at Sandringham. (Supplementary
Illustration.)

180
181
184
178

18S

THE HIPPEASTRUM.

THIS handbome hothouse plant will now
be coming into flower. It is one I used
to exhibit successfully some 20 to 25
years ago. Messrs. James Veitch and
Sons, of Chelsea, had some years previously
introduced two very distinct and handsome
species from the .■Xndes of Peru through their
collector, Mr. Pearce. H. pardinum was the
first of the two to produce flowers in the
Chelsea nursery in 1867. H. Leopoldi flowered
in 1869. And when we see the superb gar-
den varieties now exhibited by Messrs. Veitch
and others it is as well to know that their
origin can be traced to these two species.
Mr. John Seden was the first to cross-fertilise
them, and the initial attempt was remarkably
successful. H. Ackermanni pulcherrimum
was a great favourite at that time, and it was
crossed with the pollen of H. pardinum.
Three very good garden forms were produced
from this cross— viz., Chelsoni, Brilliant, and
Maculatum. The work of cross-fertilising
soon passed into the hands of Mr. John Heal,
and many of the beautiful garden varieties in
existence 20 years ago were raised by hiin
at Chelsea. The characteristics of H. pardi-
num and Leopoldi were the very short tubes
(hey possessed, and the habit of producing

' tv>'o flowers on a scape. They lacked some-
what of the vigour possessed by some other
varieties in cultivation at the time.

The family of Mr. de Graaff, of Leiden,
had also been working for many years in
hybridising and cross-fertilising the Hippeas-
trum. As long ago as 1790 the De Graaffs
had raised hybrids, and they are still continu-
ing this work, .'\mongst others they raised
a truly handsome variety named Empress of
India, which was raised by ci'ossing a dark-
coloured seedling from H. psittacinum with
another seedling of their own named H.
gravianum. This handsome variety, Em-
press of India, produced large crimson-
coloured flowers, four and five on a scape ;
and another variety named "The Giant" was
introduced at the same time. Other growers
had been working in the same direction with
such material as was available. As early as
1799 a watchmaker of Prescot, in Lancashire,
named Johnson, began the work of hybridi-
sing, and made a cross between H. reginse
and H. vittatum and produced H. x
Jolinsoni. Dean Herbert asserts that
Johnson raised this hybrid in iSio, and it
was also raised by himself at Mitcham in
181 1. Herbert was a most indefatigable hy-
bridist, and could not be satisfied with merely
cross-fertilising garden varieties. There ivere
a number of interesting and some handsome
varieties and species in cultivation before the
year 1810. H. striatifolium had flowered in
Messrs. Lee's nursery, Hammersmith, in
1781. The type forms of H. reticulatum was in
cultivation in 1777 H. equestre was intro-
duced in i6gS; H. reginae in 1728. H. vitta-
tum, used so much by Herbert as a parent,
was introduced in 1769. The splendid strains
produced by Kcr, of Liverpool, and Williams,
of Holloway, are known to all lovers of thtse
plants.

The modern cultivator in nearly every in-
stance looks to the production of beautiful
garden varieties, and obtains the best he can
find in the market for this purpose, and it
is not important to him what were the origi-
nal species from which the e.xisting garden
varieties were obtained. His object is gained
if he improves upon existing forms, either
by obtaining better or brighter colours, or
better form in the flower, etc. Herbert's
work was entirely different ; he, working
from a scientific standpoint, made crosses
from original species, and many of them
must have been of great interest. Amongst
others he raised H. Henslowi, named after
the Professor of Botany at Cambridge.
Several interesting crosses were made at the
same time by others. Sweet, at Colvill's
nursery, a Mr Griffin, and also Mr. R. Har-
rison were all co-workers, and the result is
given at pages 142 to 144 of the Amarylli-
dacece. There are 31 examples of the hybri-
dist's art described, many of them from H.
reticulatum. A very pretty form of the
Habranthus section is figured in the Botanical
Magazine, t. 7,344. It is named H. brachy-
andrum, and was described by Mr. Baker
from examples that flowered at Kew : " The
first flowers opened in July, and they con-
tinued till September, so that the plant proves
to be a valuable acquisition to horticulture."
The plants seem to have been flowered in an
open border with a southern exposure. The
colour of the flower is a deep claret red,
fading to pale pink at the top of the funnel-
shaped perianth.

As is well known, the garden varieties of
the Hippeastrums are really hothouse plants.
They do not require a very high temperature.

but luxuriate in a bottom heat of 80 degrees
to 85 degrees, and an atmosoheric tempera-
ture of 60 degrees when they are approaching
the flowering stage. How it would rejoice
the hearts of thousands of amateurs who can
afford a greenhouse, but object to the ex-
pense of a hothouse, if a strain of plants
of this genus could be obtained that would
be at home in a greenhouse ! I have seen
only the coloured plate of H. brachyandrum,
which shows it to be a handsome species, and
a fair rival to \'allota purpurea, a well-known
greenhouse plant. .Another charming green-
house plant is the Jacobean Lily, Amaryllis
formosissima. This species does not seed
freely. Indeed, Herbert states that no in-
stance had come to his knowledge of its
having borne seed in England. This is so
near Hippeastrums that one would think it
might be hybridised with them. Ripe seed
was obtained from it by the late Colonel
Trevor Clarke. I believe he gave seeds to
Kew nearly twenty years ago. Amateurs
with time to spare might obtain much enjoy-
ment by working out scientific experiments
on the hybridising of these comparatively
hardy species. Cyrtanthus hybridus is stated
in Gardeners' Chronicle, 18S5, vol. xxiv., p.
391, to be a hybrid between the Vallota and
Cyrtanthus sanguineus. No one can tell
what might be accomplished by the inter-
crossing of these allied genera.

How TO R.'MSE Seedlings.

A few remarks may be useful on the raising
of seedlings and the general culture of Hip-
peastrums. In order to obtain any measure of
success, cross-fertilisation must be resorted
to. When Empress of India was first intro-
duced I obtained a plant and fertilised the
flowers with their own pollen, and obtained
over 400 plants, but they proved very dis-
appointing ; very few were as good as the
parent, none was better, and not one in fifty
was so good. There was also but little varia-
tion in colour, whereas if cross-fertilisation
had been attempted many distinct and beauti-
ful varieties would have been forthcoming.
The stigma and stamens are so conspicuous
that it is quite easy to cross them. The
stamens, of course, must be removed from
the seed-bearer before the pollen-cases burst,
and in 24 hours the stigma will be in con-
dition to have the foreign pollen applied.
The capsules swell rapidly, and the seed will
be ripe in June or July. Sow it as soon as it
is ripe in a hothouse in bottom heat. The
young plants will soon appear, and if they
are potted off in good soil, a dozen or so in
six-inch flower-pots, they will make excellent
growth the same season, and good bulbs will
be formed. They will be all the stronger it
the flower-pots are placed over a little bottom
heat. The plants do not require a long sea-
son of rest, but should be kept dry at the
roots during November and December and
part of January. They will not lose their
leaves during the winter, and in January
three of the plants may be potted into six-
inch flower-pots, and, if placed in a moderate
hothouse atmosphere, with a gentle bottom
heat, some of them will form flowering bulbs
by the end of the season. The potting soil
may be good yellow loam four parts, decayed
stable manure one part, and leaf-mould or
peat one part. At the end of the season all
the bulbs may be rested until potting time in
January, when they should be repotled singly
and treated as ordinary named varieties. It is
not absolutely necessary that these - plants
should be grown .^nd fluwtrcd with their pots

178

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1905.

plunged over the rims in spent tan from a
tan-yard, but those who cannot afford to treat
them so will not be able to obtain such satis-
factory results as those who can.

I would warn those young gardeners who
aspire to success in the culture of these plants
that they must be very careful as regards
watering, especially after the bulbs have been
recently repotted. If the potting compost is
fairly moist to start with, no water should be
given for two or three weeks afterwards.
By that time some growth will have been
made, and water of the same temperature
as the atmosphere of the house may be ap-
plied at first round the sides of the rims, so
as not to allow any to lodge at the base of
the bulbs. When the pots have become full
of roots water may be applied freely; but if
the flower-pots are plunged they will not rc-

CHINESE CONIFERS.

A NEW CHINESE LARCH.*
Botanists have described two Larches as native
to the province of Szechuan. One was described
by Batalin in 1S94 under the name of L. Potanini,
another collected by Prince Henry of Orleans was
called L. thibetica (iSgg). Judging from the
descriptions only, it seems most probable that the
two names refer to one and the same species, and,
if so, the earlier name, that of Batalin, must be
adopted. Specimens were collected by Wilson in
the same district, and were considered by him to
belong to the same species as that above men-
tioned. Seedling plants are in cultivation at
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons' Nursery at Combe
Wood, on which account it is desirable to give a
description and illustration taken from Wilson's
n. 3,009. Mr. Wilson tells us that it is a tree
ranging from 20 to Oo feet in height common
around Tatien-lu at an altitude ranging from 7,500

THE ADVENT OF THE DAFFODIL.

The Narcissus, in all its myriad forms, is an
eminently satisfying flower. An imperfect Daf-
fodil would be a kind of anomaly ; such a
phenomenon is hardly conceivable, especially in
this age of hybridisation. No bulbous plant is
so marvellously accommodating ; it can be
planted almost anywhere, on grassy lawns,
picturesquely in leaf-mould at the feet of vener-
able trees — in which situations it is uniquely
beautiful — or wherever there is adequate drain-
age— a matter of supreme importance — in
ordinary garden loam. The finest and most
impressive of modern Narcissi succeed admirably
in such positions, and, as a general rule, are
not greatly affected, unless where shelter is
utterly unattainable, by atmospheric influences.
Like Henry Kirke White's Early Primrose, they
are, only too often for the composure of their
ardent cultivators, "nursed in whirling storms.

Fig. 68. — larix potanini.

To the left, branch with tufts of leaves; in the centre, three mature cones of real size; to the right, a bud, a leaf of twice the natural size with a transverse
section magn. 10 diam., young cones ; in the lower line, bract, cone-scale and seeds magn. 2 diam., and young cone.

quire a very great quantity of water. The
garden varieties of Hippeastruni have now
■attained to such a high standard of excellence
that fewer varieties receive certificates than
heretofore. I have looked through the re-
ports of the Floral Committee of the Royal
Horticultural Society, and find that one only
was certificated in 1904 and none in 1905.
That in 1904 was a truly handsome variety
named .Snowdon (see fig. in Gardeners'
Chronicle, April 30, 1904), pure white, and
raised by Mr. Fielder, the very able gardener
at North .Mymms Park. This received a first-
class certificate for its vigorous habit, large
size of the flowers, and their perfect form.
Other white varieties have been raised, but
none at all approaching this. Many very
fine varieties were exhibited, but the com-
mittee evidently thought that none of them
were advances on previously raised varieties.
/. Doiiglns.

to 11,000 feet. It is the Hung Sha of the Chinese,
and is the most valuable timber tree in Western
China.

The bark on the young shoots is of an orange
yellow colour and slightly hairy, on the older
shoots the bark becomes glabrous and of an ashen
grey colour ; the leaf cushions or pulvini are
slightly prominent, linear. The leaves, which
measure from 20-25 ™ill. (occasionally much
shorter), are glabrous, linear, apiculate, flattish,
with a prominent midrib. The mature cones are
35-40 mill, long, 18 mill, broad, sessile, deflexed,
oblong-ovoid, obtuse. The bracts are conspicuous
as long as, or, in the young state, longer than the
scales, membranous lanceolate, often markedly
acuminate, and frequently recurved ; cone-scales
brownish grey, rounded truncate, seeds winged.
Beissner's Larix chinensis is from a different dis-
trict (northern Shensi) and differs materially from
the present species in its cones.

*Lari.x Potanini, Batalin in Act. Hoit. Pclrop, xiii., p.
385 (1894).
L. thibetica, Franchet in Joitrn. dc Bot. (iSgg), p. 262.

and cradled in the winds." Shakespeare, the
greatest of poetic thinkers, has told us that
" they come before the swallow dares, and take
the winds of March with beauty " ; and Words-
worth, the high priest of Nature, has declared
that " they gleam into that inward eye which is
the bliss of solittide " ; thus memorably em-
phasising their moral suggestiveness. Much of
the purest and loftiest inspiration of which
mankind is capable is derived from such ex-
quisite vernal flowers. Such being the case, I
think it is quite a misfortune for the 'ordinary
cultivator of limited resources that many of the
most recently introduced Narcissi should be
advertised at quite prohibitive prices, so far at
least as humble amateur gardeners are con-
cerned, and that they will not be accessible to
men of modest means for many years. For
these, however, there remains this enduring
consolation, that many glorious varieties
such as Emperor and Empress, Maximus
and Grandis, Queen of Spain, Barri Con-

March 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

179

spicuus and Duchess of Westminster, not to
speak of the many lovely forms of Narcissus
poeticus, are quite within their reach. Tliey
have also the assurance that such much-envied
varieties as Peter Barr, whose price has fallen
vastly within the last year, Weardale Perfection
and Madame de Graaff (which I had the pleasure
of planting last September for the first time in
front of my study window) will ere long be
equally accessible. Hitherto, unless perhaps at
the nurseries, I have only had the privilege of
seeing individual flowers of these, or of Mr.
Engleheart's or Mr. Ilaydon's most recent crea-
tions. But even to study such flowers at a
metropolitan exhibition is a veritable refining
horticultural education. During the season that
here, with Narcissus scoticus and Telemonius
plenus, has just begun, I hope to see my name-
sake, a grand derivative from Emperor, described
by a great specialist as " a bold and noble
flower," for the first time in bloom.

Other uniquely interesting varieties whose
appearance on our lawn I await with great in-
terest are the queen of white Daffodils —
Madame de Graaff, the exquisitely beautiful
Narcissus Johnstoni, Queen of Spain, that finest
of the delicate Leedsi forms, Duchess of West-
minster, the great Bicolor Victoria, with bright
3'ellow trumpet and massive, cream-like peri-
anth ; the moschatus of Plaworth, a miniature
beauty, invariably sweetest in aspect, and most
enduring in existence, when thus naturalised in
grass ; Narcissus albicans, one of the most
' charming of all natives of Spain ; and the
silvery-white, pendulous Colleen Bawn.

However familiar to our consciousness such
flowers may appear, their vernal advent is
always a radiant revelation. David R. William-
son.

TREES AND SHftUBS.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

NIDULARIUM INNOCENTI STRIATUM.

This Brazilian Bromeliaceous plant has bright
green leaves, each from 8 to I2 inches in length,
beautifully striped with a central white variegation,
deepening off to a creamy-yellow, broad, arching,
lanceolate in shape, the margins being furnished
with small spinose teeth. Itis, therefore, an attrac-
tive and very elegant plant. It may be propagated
by suckers detached from the parent plant and
potted into small sixty-size pots in a mixture of equal
parts leaf-mould and fine sandy loam, with a
liberal addition of silver sand, the whole being
well mixed together before being used. Place the
plant on a shelf in the plant-stove or propagating
pit, and afford water through a fine rose' to settle
the soil.

GMELINA HYSTRIX.

This climbing plant is most suitable for clothing
the roofs, pillars, and walls of plant-stoves, warm
greenhouses and conservatories. It was intro-
duced from the East Indies, and resembles the
Bougainvillea in habit of growth. The flowers
are freely borne in dense, terminal, drooping
spikes, and have acuminate bracts, effectively
veined with purplish red, the corolla being nearly
3 inches long and of a beautiful golden j-ellow
colour. The plant may be propagated from cut-
tings of the young growths, about 3 inches long,
taken off with a little wood of the previous year's
growth attached. The cuttings should be inserted
in suitably crocked 3-inch pots filled with light
sandy mould. Place the pots in the propagating
pit, or in any structure in which a warm, moist,
atmosphere is maintained, where they will soon
form roots. After the little plants have made
some top growth they should be potted off
singly into the same size pots in the same descrip-
tion of mould as before, returned to heat, and
watered. //. W . Wnrd.

GROUP PL.\NTING OF CONIFERS.
Some gardeners are prone to dogmatise over-
much in regard to the manner in which trees
should be planted, and other matters ; not re-
cognising or admitting there may be cogent
reasons for departures from the methods and
practices which they think to be right. Let us
take the planting of trees in groups, or singly on
lawns and in pleasure parks and grounds. The
proprietor may be desirous of securing immedi-
ate effects, and the fact is generally known that
trees make more rapid growth upwards when
planted in company with others than planted
singly at wide distances apart owing to the
mutual shelter afforded against wind and storms ;
the more equable temperature enjoyed, and the
greater abundance of moisture found in the air
in a group, and the hindrance to evaporation
afforded by the foliage of the trees composing
the group. Let anyone compare the growth
made by the same kinds of trees planted in
groups and singly at the same date. Moreover,
the closer the planting the more rapid the rate of
growth. I have observed groups of Red Cedar
(Juniperus Virginiana), the tree which affords
wood for making pencils, which measured from
20 to 40 yards in diameter, and the trees stood
at less than 3 feet apart. These groups were
symmetrical in general outline 60 years after
planting, contained no perceptible gaps, never
admitted the full force of the wind into the in-
terior of the groups, and carried good healthy
crowns, although all below 15 feet high consisted
of bare, branchless poles of 6 to 8 inches in
diameter at man's height ; and as the groups
were set out at distances of 100 to 200 yards
apart, they suppUed capital wind breaks, and
agreeable if dark coloured furnishing for an ex.
tensive pleasure ground.

Where space could be afforded, I would recom-
mend the planting of this rapid-growing Conifer
at 2 feet apart, for affording poles and stakes for
garden use ; especially for supplying " rustic "
supports for creeping and climbing plants out
of doors ; fencing, etc. ; the wood when felled
in the winter and seasoned in airy sheds for two
years being very durable. The tree at any age
has but little sapwood ; and in lasting properties
excels Hazel, Sweet Chestnut, Ash, or any other
coppice woods which I know of. A good example
of group planting was carried out in the
gardens at Aston Clinton by the late Baron
Anthony de Rothschild many years ago,
the species of Conifer planted being Se-
quoia gigantea (Wellingtonia). It is some few
3'ears ago that I observed these two groups, and
the trees were at that time in perfect condition
and about 40 feet in height, with stems at 3 feet
from the ground of 1 foot in diameter. A good
deal of conifer planting was carried out at about
the same time on that portion of the estate situ-
ated on the Chiltern Hills above Aston Clinton,
but I do not know if choice Conifers alone wera
planted in close order, or nurse plants of quick-
growing kinds were also employed. This exten-
sive plantation right on the top of the hill con-
tained many magnificent Conifers, which were
largely drawn upon when Halton was being laid
out for Alfred de Rothschild, Esq., about a quar-
ter of a century ago.

Another Conifer which groups grandly, and
grows rapidly, is Sequoia sempervirens (Red-
wood). The columnar habited Conifers are
always best for solitary or group planting, and
flat-headed Firs, such as the Weymouth Pine
and Scots Pine, and others of that class, which
soon lose their lower branches, and then admit
wind and sun, are less well suited for forming
small groups in pleasure grounds, these being
the more effective when the outer lines of trees
preserve their branches down to the ground level.
/■". M.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

The Flora of the District.

(Continued from page 166.)
The Meconopsis at Last.
At 11,000 feet I came across the first plant of
Meconopsis integrifolia ! (See Gardeners' Cl'.roni-
cle, October 1, 1904, p. 240.) It was growing
amongst scrub and was past flowering. I am
not going to attempt to record the feelings which
possessed me on first beholding the object of
my quest to these wild regions. Messrs. Vciich
despatched me on this second, and very costly,
journey to the Tibetan border for the sole pur.
pose of discovering and introducing this, the
most gorgeous Alpine plant extant. I had
travelled some 13,000 miles in 5J months, and
to be successful in attaining the first part of
my mission in such a short time was a sufiicient
reward for all the difficulties and hardships ex-
perienced en route. The second part of my mis-
sion was easily accomplished in due season, and
to-day this plant is well known to all readers
of the Gardeners' Chronicle and other horticul-
tural journals.

As we continued the ascent, Meconopsis in.
tegrifolia became more and more abundant. At
12,000 feet and upwards, miles and miles of the
Alpine meadows were covered with this plant,
but only a few late flowers remained. Asso-
ciated with the above species I found Meconop-
sis Henrici. This is a charming plant with
medium-sized, dark violet-purple flowers, borne
on scapes 6 inches to a foot high. Like M. in-
tegrifolia, M. Henrici is a social plant, and
occurs in thousands.

With the Rhododendrons above 12,000 feet, at
least four species of Salix occur ; one of these
species of Willow grows prostrate over rocks,
and is not more than an inch high. Beneath
the gnarled and twisted trunks of the Rhodo-
dendrons, Cassiope selaginoides occurs in
myriads. On bare, exposed rocks, Potentilla
fruticosa is plentiful. Three forms of this plant
are distinguishable, having respsctively white,
lemon, and deep yellow flowers. The white
form attains the highest altitude. The Rhodo-
dendron bushes are only 4-6 feet high, and
though they flower freely enough, but lev/ seed-
pods are produced. A dwarf species of Rhodo-
dendron, with small purple flowers and minute
leaves, cover these uplands as heather does the
Scottish moors.

The summit of the pass (13,100 feet) is flat,
about a quarter of a mile across, and flanked
on the right and left with grassy mountain
slopes.

Several ponds of good size occur on the sum-
mit, and two or three large cairns of stones
mark the boundary of the kingdom of Djiala in
this direction. Snow lays for eight mcmths of
the year on the top of the pass. A rov/ of stakes
10 feet high marks the path across, but in spite
of these, lives are often lost on this pass in
winter.

Very few Rhododendrons occur on the sum-
mit, and save an occasional Willow and Juniper
no other shrub. This exposed summit, over
which the wind sweeps pitilessly, was at the
time of my visit one carpet of herbs : Gentians,
Anemones, Primulas, Meconopsis, Corydalis,
Senecios, Fritillarias, Orchids, Pedicularis,
Potentillas, Oxytropis, dwarf Delphiniums,
various species of Compositas, Leguminosse,
and LabiatEe — flowers of every hue in myriads !
Dense mists prevented an extensive view of this
fairyland ; the thermometer stood at 48° F. Wet
to the skin and shivering with cold, yet we were
loth to turn our backs on a scene so enchanting.
A glance at the watch showed 4 o'clock ; this
meant that unless we wished to bo benighted we
had better return with all speed.

It was with many misgivings that we
approached our new lodgings at 6.30 p.m., but
to our glad surprise everything had favoured
us. We were accommodated in a nice weather-
proof room, with a fairly clean boarded floor.

180

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE

[Maecpi 24, 1906.

Our cook was quite strong again, and had a
nice warm meal ready for us, to which we
speedily did justice. The previous night's ex-
perience was soon forgotten, and a sound night s
sleep rewarded the exertions of the day.

The next day we attempted to climb up to the
snow-line, but only succeeded in reaching 15,000
feet. This climb enabled me to make out the
zones of vegetation more clearly, and to better
understand the limits of certain species. To my
collection I added several fresh plants of in-
terest, including Spenceria ramalana, Meconop-
sis horridula, M. sinuata var. Prattii, Incar.
villea Principis, Braya sinensis, Trollius ranun-
culoides, two species of Cyananthus, various
Composites and Labiates, and the curious Hima.
layan trefoil Parochajtus communis.

The Meconopsis were growing in the niches
of bare granite cliffs between IS.-WO and 15,000
fe^t. The Incarvillea has bright crimson flowers
and was abundant in grassy places between
13,000 and 14,000 feet. Meconopsis integrifolia
ceased at 14,500 feet. At this altitude this plant
is very much reduced in stature and occurs on
tops of humus-clad rocks and in the niches of
cliffs.

At 15,000 feet, which is practically the limit
of vegetation hereabouts, I gathered Meconopsis
horridula, Arenaria sp., Ranunculus glacialis,
Draba sp., Primula sp.. Saxifraga sp., Carex
sp., a very curious Composite, and the lovely
Myosotis Hookeri. With the exception of the
Composite, all the above are small, tufted,
cushion-like plants. Hooker's Forget-me-not
forms cushions a foot or more across — one mass
of lovely blue flowers — and is a most charming
Alpine.

\X 14,200 feet we encountered the moraine of
an enormous glacier. Over this we scrambled
and ultimately reached a ridge at 15,000 feet.
In front of us was another desolate moraine, or
series of moraines, and immediately above us
towered bare, irthospitable cliffs of granite and
gneiss. The day was bright and sunny, and
the radiation from the bare rocks excessive.
M. 3 p.m. the thermometer registered 80° F.
The moraine in front of us terminated in tre-
mendous fields of ice, glaciers of a virgin peak,
21,000 feet high.

The sun shone brilliantly, and we got a mag.
nificent view of the surrounding mountains.
South, south-west of us lay a gigantic peak,
several thousand feet higher than the one men-
tioned above ; its summit crowned with snow-
fields of enormous size. On every side, as far
as the eye could range, towered mighty snow-
clad peaks. When this hrra incognita is properly
surveyed, it will probably be found that many
of the peaks equal the highest peaks of the
Indian Alps. E. H. Wilson.

(To he continued.)

but before this Mr. Charles Turner, so well
known as a Carnation specialist, had introduced
other varieties of a dwarf habit. Foxhunter, of
bright scarlet, was one of the first I remember ;
then we had Miss Joliffe, which for a long period
enjoyed a higher reputation than any other
variety grown for market purposes. Lucifer was
anoth;r of the dv, arf-growing, section. Irma, pink,

TREE CARNATIONS.

We seem to have lost sight of the varieties to
which the name " Tree" was originally applied, ■
but I have previously suggested that it has been
from such as we grew forty years ago that the
Americans have obtained such signal success. I
believe most of those with the flowers more or
less fringed originally came from the Continent.
La Belle Rose, one of the first I remember, had
flowers somewhat similar to those of the -Ameri-
can variety G. H. Crane, but not so large in size. '
The white variety, with fringed flowers, I be-
lieve, was called The Bride. Then, later on, we
had Laura, of blush-pink, and Andalusia, prim-
rose-yellow. La Belle was of the same habit,
but the flowers were not fringed. Mrs. Keen, a
very tall-growing variety, with crimson flowers,
was an old favourite. I think if we had kept to
those just referred to we should have been quite
even with the Americans ; but the aim of Eng-
lish raisers was to discard varieties with irregu-
lar petals in favour of those with broad, smooth
petals, having a " regular " edge. Yet from
France we got other good varieties. A. Alega-
tiere was a great favourite about 23 years ago ;

this type, for if not quite so valuable for pro-
ducing flowers for cutting, they make useful
flowering plants. It was after the introduction
of this variety that I commenced to cross-fertilise
Carnations, and found it one of the most pro-
lific seed parents. One of the first crosses made
was from pollen of L'riah Pike, secured from
Cowers bought in the market before plants of th^

Fig. bg. — englisii-k.msed tree c.^.rnation '■ elliott s oueen," which obtained am

AWARD OF MERIT AT THE R.H.S. MEETING ON MARCH 6 ; FLOWERS, ROSE COLOURED.

(See note on page ISl.)

was for a long period a favourite. La Zouave,
■Vulcan, and others were too much of the habit of
the border sorts, and it was by introducing such
as these into the winter flowering section that
we lost ground. Winter Cheer, though a dwarf
variety, proved to be most valuable for winter
flowering, and for the past 15 or 16 years has
remained a favourite, during which time it has
been the parent of many other useful sorts.
Further perseverance may be recommended with

variety were sold. From the first cross the
variety Henry Gibbons was obtained. The
flowers were not very full, but the variety had
the free habit of Winter Cheer, with the rich
crimson colour of Uriah Pike. I never could
recognise this latter variety as a proper Tree
Carnation, for in plants propagated in the
spring it was only the main stem that would
flower in the winter, all the side shoots remain-
ing until late in the spring before starting to

Makch 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

181

show flower stems. This is the most important
distinction between the Border and the Tree
varieties. In the latter the side shoots follow
on. Taking Winter Cheer as one example, when
planted in the open ground I have seen the
.same plants maintain a regular succession of
bloom right on to nearly Christmas, and if the
weather had. been favourable they would have

considerable improvement on scarlet varieties.
Primrose Day, a fine yellow flower. The Shah-
zada, Zenobia, and several others were good,
and have been followed by later varieties from
the same parentage.

Mr. Godfrey, of Exmouth, is another grower
who raised some good things a few years ago,
but he seems to have worked more on the

Fu.. 70. — .\MERIC.\N-R.\ISn:D C.-\RN".^T10N' " XELSON FISHER," WHICH (jAI.NED .\.N .\W.\RD
Ol' MERIT AT THE R.H.S. MEETINX. ON MARCH 6 ; COLOUR OF FLOWERS, DEEP SHADE

OF CERISE.

Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Chelsea, under its
proper name, and was again given an award of
merit. It appears to have been of French
origin. Only the last time I was in the market
I noticed a splendid lot of blooms of this useful
variety ; but the older favourite. Miss Joliffe,
seems to have almost died out.

Of the more recent additions some varieties
from ilessrs. Cutbush and Sons show evidence
of American blood in them. General Kuroki is
much after the American type, the large, bright
scarlet flowers having stiff stems. Mrs. S. J.
Brooks, the pure white flower of earlier origin,
also belongs to the American type. The firm
have added a good many other useful sorts
which indicate the same parentage.

Mr. W. E. Boyes, of I^eicester, has for some
years been a successful worker. He has on
several occasions exhibited his own raised varie-
ties, both as pot plants and as cut blooms. I
have before me some fine blooms received from
him, and these indicate some relationship to tl;e
Americans. One of the finest is Dr. W. G.
Grace, of intense scarlet colour ; the largd
spreading petals are fringed, the calyx is gooj,
and the stems long and erect. The Hon. A.
I.yttelton, red, with petals of good substance, G.
A. Boyes, white, with a slight blush tint, large
full flowers, with stem and general form favour-
ing Enchantress, Lady Carlisle, rosy pink, and
Lady Lonsdale, white, suffused with pink, with'
several other good sorts, are all of a strong-
growing type.

Mr. A. Smith, of Enfield Highway, is another
successful raiser. He has sent me blooms of
Britannia, a large scarlet flower, of perfect
form, with good calyx and strong stem. Liberty,
another good scarlet variety, which was well
shown last November, Coronation, a very pretty
pink variety, but the flowers rather small. Pro-
gress, a cerise coloured flower, with fringed
petals, and, as recently seen, a most promising
variety, are only some of Mr. Smith's seedlings.
Mr. H. Elliott, of Hassocks, Sussex, is another
raiser. Elliott's Queen, of deep rosy-pink
colour and large size, is quite of the American
type, and gained an award of merit on March 6.
H. Elliott is a deep pink flower, something after
Mrs. T. \V. I.awson, very large, well-filled
flowers. Mr. Elliott speaks very highly of some
newer seedlings I have not seen.

Messrs. R. II. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, a.e work-
ing on the American varieties, and they have
sent me blooms of a seedling raised from Mrs. T.
\\'. Lawson, the pollen parent being Lord
Roberts, a good yellow variety. The flowers re-
ceived have a buff ground, flaked with red, and
it appears probable that another generation may
produce a good yellow flower, which is wanted
more than any other winter-fiowering variety.
From the same seed-pod yellow varieties were
secured, but they were not good on all points.
Having so many now working on these useful
flowers, we may expect further good results ;
but it may prove difficult to make selections
when they become so numerous.
(To be concluded. )

continued longer ; while the Border varieties in
the next beds produced but one crop of blooms,
the lateral growths failing to develop flower
stems.

Mr. H. B. May, of Edmonton, sent out a set
of very useful varieties, many of them having
been obtained from Winter Cheer, Countess of
Warwick was an improvement on H. Gibbons,
and later still was Prince of Wales. W. Rolin-
son, which is stiil crown extensively, was a

Madame Tncrese Franco type. His " Pride of
Exmouth" is recognised as one of the most use-
ful pink varieties for market, and Godfrey's King
is a good crimson flower. Madame Therese
Franco is still extensively grown for supplying
the market with cut blooms. It was first shown
in August, 1892, under the name of Mrs. Leopold
de Rothschild, and an award of merit was given
by the Floral Committee of the R.H.S. In
October of the following year it was shown by

FORESTRY.

CLIMATE and TREE GROWTH.
As communications have appeared from time to
time on this subject in the Gardeners' Chroiiich,
all of which are apparently intended to prove
that the comparison I draw between the climate
of Belgium and that of the North of England
and Scotland amounted to a libel on the latter,
perhaps I may be permitted to sum up a few
of the statements made by different correspon-
dents, and note how far they go to disprove my
original statement published in the Gardeners'
Chronicle of November 18. 190"). This st-t:-

18-2

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1906.

merit was as follows : " As regards climate, it
was apparent that the rate of growth of all
species was much more rapid than that seen,
say, north of the Midlands."

Sir Herbert Maxwell gave instances of the
growth of several species which I did not con-
sider as proving or disproving the point I raised,
as they referred rather to the growth of indi-
vidual trees than to that of crops of timber
several acres in extent, and growing at what we
consider high elevations. It is only by duly
taking this question of elevation into account
that the real point at issue can be discussed
at all. When we find forest crops growing well
in one country at 2,000 feet above sea level, and
in another ceasing to grow profitably at 1,000
to 1,200 ,feet, the only reasonable deduction
that can be made from such a fact is that the
climate of the former is warmer than the latter
during the growing season or summer months.
Whether this extra warmth is an advantage or
not depends upon the species grown and the
quality of timber desired. This question of
quality was never raised by me at all, but simply
the rate of growth of such species as Scotch
Pine, Spruce, Oak, Beech, or other hardy and
common forest trees when growing north of the
Midlands. If anyone can give me instances of
crops of Scotch Pine or Spruce growing at the
average rate of 2 feet yearly for the first
thirty years at an elevation of 1,000 feet or over,
and in that part of the British Isles I specified,
then the question may be considered settled, as
a parallel to the case I quoted will have been
found.

Dr. Henry tells us that the absence of cold
drying winds during the winter months is a
feature of the British climate favourable to tree
growth. And is not the absence of such
winds during May and June of equal import-
ance? He also points out that his investiga-
tions have proved the suitability of the British
Climate for the growth of most indigenous and
a few introduced forest trees. Cajsar came to
the same conclusion 2,000 years ago, and made
a note of it, but it is rather the comparative
rates of growth of these trees than their healthy
existence and normal development that we want
to get at.

Mr. John Booth states the growth of certain
Conifers at Bicton and Dropmore surpasses any-
thing he has seen in Germany, but both these
places are a long way south of the line I laid
down. Meeting him on his own ground, how-
ever, I should like to ask him where his studies
of tree growth in Britain have been made.
Have his arboricultural visits been chiefly made
to places famous for fine specimens, or to the
ordinarv woodlands of the country growing on
hill-sides, where such species as Cedrus Deodara,
Taxodium sempervirens, Pinus Hartwegii, and
many others would be failures? A few weeks
back he told us that Cobbett was right when he
stated that the Locust tree was superior to the
British Oak for forest planting. If Mr. Booth
will give the dimensions of individual trees and
their number growing on ten acres of ground,
half of which have been planted with our species
and half with the other, and allowed to mature,
1 think I can show him not only that Cobbett
was wrong, but where he was wrong. The list
of trees Mr. Booth states his ability to draw
up, and which will contain tlie names of trees
able to grow in this country, but not in Ger-
many, is no great wonder, when we consider the
difference in the winters of the two countries,
but how many of the trees in this list will
attain their normal dimensions here, and how
many are superior to the native trees of the
country? Many species again which are suc-
cessful in such sheltered spots as may be found
in abundance in most hilly districts are com-
plete failures when planted on high and ex-
posed ground in the same districts. In the Lake

district of Cumberland, and parts of Perthshire,
many trees, especially Conifers, reach large
dimensions, but a few miles away similar re-
sults are not obtained. In the one case we have
a purely local climate, or conditions of growth ;
in the other the average climate of the country
exerts its full influence upon growth, and the
real hardiness of a species is put to the test.

As a matter of fact, no one who has paid any
attention to the growth of ordinary forest trees,
whether indigenous or introduced, doubts the
fact that the vast majority of trees grow faster
in the South of England than in the north.
Where can we find such specimens of Oaks,
Spanish Chestnuts, English Elms, Planes,
Limes, and many other trees in the north,
which are so common in the south? W"hy does
hedgerow timber never reach the length and
size in the former as it does in the latter?
Sylviculture does not come into play with this
class of timber, and climate alone can make the
difference. I am not referring so much to the
small proportion of " show " trees, which are
more or less famous in their particular countries,
but to the average timber, which can be seen
in any parish, or, when felled, in a timber
merchant's yard. With Conifers of most kinds,
the same difference can be noted, although it
may not be quite so marked, and with a few
species which like a cool, moist climate mav
disappear altogether, but these do not affect the
question generally.

If the growth of timber in the south is more
rapid than in the north, then I think we may
take it for granted that Belgium is equally su-
perior to the latter, and a careful examination
of facts will prove this to be the case. I have
no wish to disparage the British climate for
timber growing, and as regards the quality of
the timber it can grow, it is probably better than
most parts of Europe, so far as the production
of strength and durability are concerned. But
when the truth of a simple statement, such as
the one which gave rise to this discussion, is
called into question, I may be excused for
defending myself. .4. C. Forbes.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey,

TIniiiias. — There are many deciduous or semi-
deciduous Orchids which having had a decided rest
during the winter months are now re-commencing
n grow and will need immediate attention.
T.iunia Marshallii, T. Bensona-. T. candidissima,
i'. alba, T. pulchra, and the hybrids T. Brymeri-
ana and T. Veitchiana should be shaken out of
their old compost and be repotted. The usual
and most convenient method is to plant six or
eight pseudo-bulbs about 3 inches apart, into pots
of 7 or 8 inches in diameter. Use clean pots and
make them nearly half full with crocks, over which
place a thin turf of fibrous loam with the grass
side downwards. The rooting medium sliould be
of good 5'ellow fibrous loam, with a moderate
quantity of chopped sphagnum-moss, and suf-
ficient small crocks to maintain porosity. Place
the base of the new growths level with the surface
of the soil, which should be at about half an inch
below the rim of the pot. Secure each pseudo-
bulb to a neat stake to hold it firmly in its proper
position. Place these Thunias in the lightest
position in the East Indian house or plant-stove,
with the tips of the pseudo-bulbs as near to the
roof glass as possible ; if these bulbs have grown
to an unreasonable length, cut off a portion from
the top, so that the young growths at their base
may be brought nearer to the light. For several
weeks after repotting, very little water will be
needed, but as the growths advance and the roots
are seen to be spreading through the compost, grad-
ually increase the supply, and when firmly estab-
lished, occasional waterings with weak liquid cow
manure will be useful. The pretty Arundina bam-
busaefolio and A. Philippii may be repotted in
the same kind of compost and be treated as the

Thunias as regards the water supply, but they
thrive best in the more freely ventilated atmo-
sphere of the Cattleya house.

Spathoglottis, Chysis, Blctins, S'C. — Such plants
as Spathoglottis Lobbii, S. aurea, S. Fortunei, S.
plicata, S. Vieillardi, and their hybrids may be
treated as advised for the Thunias, but they
require rather more shade while growing. Such
species as Chysis bractescens, C. aurea, C. Lim-
minghei, C. laevis, and the distinct hybrids C.
Chelsoni, C. Sedeni, and C. Langleyensis, also-
Anguloa Clowesii, A. Ruckeri, A. uniflora, and
its varieties, develop flower-buds with the young
growths, and should therefore not be disturbed
by repotting until after the flowers have faded.
Suspend the Chysis in a light position in the
Cattleya house. Keep the Anguloas in the inter-
mediate house. Both Chysis and Anguloas will
require sufficient water to keep their roots just
moist. After the flower-spikes have been cut
the Chysis may be repotted into a well-drained
compost of fibrous peat, leaf soil, and cliopped
sphagnum-moss in equal parts. Keep them in the
same house throughout the growing season.
Immediately the young leaves commence to
unfold let the plants be placed in a house that is
being vaporised, as opportunity occurs, so as to
destroy small yellow thrips that may be lurking
low down in the young growths. The same kind
of soil will suit the Anguloas with the addition of
fibrous loam in the same proportion to the otUer
materials. Bletia hyacinthina is a deciduous
plant now commencing to grow, and should at
once be repotted in the same compost as used for
the Anguloas. . Keep the plant well exposed to
the light in the coolest house. It will, if needs
be, do well in an ordinary greenhouse. A liberal
supply of water is needed at the root till the
flowering period is past, when the quantity should
be gradually decreased. Other species of Bletia
when growing require the atmospheric temperature
of the Cattleya or intermediate house.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, .Mlerton, Liverpool.

Fraiuiscfas (Brunfelsias). — These are evergreen
shrubs of great beauty, and most accommodating
whether required for exhibition or for decorative
purposes at home. By placing several plants in
varying degrees of heat, they may be brought
forward at intervals to flower at any season of the
year. Francisceas grow freely if potted in a com-
post of fibrous peat three parts, leaf-mould three
parts, and good loam two parts, with a liberal
quantity of sand and crock siftings. During the
growing season copious supplies of water should
be afforded both to the roots and foliage. If the
plants need repotting this should be done imme-
diately after they have flowered, disturbing the
roots as little as possible during the operation.
Let the plants make their growth in an atmo-
spheric temperature of 60" to C8°, and when the
shoots have each made five or six leaves pinch out
the points, and the result will be a greater pro-
fusion of flowers. When coming into bloom the
plants should be removed to an atmosphere of 55"
to 60", as this will improve the quality and colour
of the flowers. F. calycina and F. eximia are
both desirable plants, and natives of Brazil.

Euphorbia pukherrima (Poinsettias). — The old
stools which have been at rest should now be
prepared for making new growths to be used as
cuttings. Cut back to firm-jointed wood the un-
ripened portion of tlie stems, and remove the plants
into an atmospheric temperature of 65° to 70",
giving the roots at the same time a good soaking
with tepid water. When the shoots have grown
about 2 inches or so in length, and it is seen that
the roots are active, the atmosphere may be
allowed to become a little cooler, and by keeping the
plants close to the glass the growths will be short
jointed, and in the best condition to make roots
after their insertion as cuttings. ■* These cuttings
should be taken off with a small portion of the old
wood attached and inserted singly into small 60
sized pots, plunging the pots in the propagating
pit in mild bottom heat. A little shading may
be required when repotting takes place, but every
care should be exercised to secure that the plants
shall not be drawn up weakly by overshading.
Poinsettias are often grown in an atmosphere that
is too warm and moist, and without sufficient
ventilation. When the cuttings are once rooted
avoid causing them any check to growth by
removing them too suddenly to cooler conditions.
When they have become established in their pots

March 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

183

air should be liberally admitted to them, and the
plants exposed to all the sunshine possible ; such
treatment will result in the growth of dwarf plants
with hard wood that will not fail to produce at the
proper season large, brilliant bracts.

General remarks. — Propagate a good batch of
Zonal Pelargoniums for tiowering in winter. For
this purpose the Improved F. V. Raspail is still
one of the best. All the late tubers of Gloxinia
and Gesnera should be potted up. Young seedlings
of these, as well as those of Begonias, should be
closely attended in respect to affording water, and
when large enough should be pricked off into pans.
Keep the young stock of all wmter flowering plants
regularly potted and the shoots stopped in order
to produce a bushy growth. Libonias should be
trimmed over but not cut too closely. The old
plants generally flower much better than younger
■ ones. Expose them fully to the sunshine durmg
the summer months. Celosias, Browallia elata,
Petunias, Schizanthus, Balsams, &c., should be
grown on into pots 7 or 8 inches in diameter to be
ready to furnish the stages of the conservatory
when Azaleas, &c., pass out of flower. Pot on
Fuchsias, and assist herbaceous Calceolarias
coming mto flower by affording them frequent
applications of liquid manure. Sow seeds of
Primula sinensis for flowering early in autumn.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Halley Park, Bedfordshire.

Pineapples. — Some of the fruits will now be
approaching ripeness, and should be moved to a
light, dry house, where they will improve both
in colour and flavour. The earliest batch of
" Queens " should now be aftbrded liquid manure
from the farmyard and guano water alternately
twice a week. Maintain the atmosphere in a
humid condition by damping the paths and walls
frequently, but when the plants flower less atmo-
spheric moisture will be needed. Let the house
containing plants that were potted last month be
closed early in the afternoon, and the plants be
given a syringing overhead at the same time.
The roots will now be spreading in the new com-
post, and they should be given a good watering to
thoroughly moisten the soil. Aftbrd ventilation
with great care, and especially during the spring
months. The atmospheric temperature may be
kept at 75° on mild nights, but if the weather is
cold 5" lower will be sufficient.

Planting Vines. — If it is intended to plant young
Vines, new borders are generally made for them
during the preceding autumn, so that the soil may
settle down and become warmed through. In
cases where this was not done, the work should
now be carried out without delay, as the time is
close at hand when the Vines will need to be
planted. Canes that are one year old are the
most suitable, and the best time for planting
is just when the buds are about to break into
growth. It will be necessary to layout the roots
carefully in tiers near to the surface of the border.
After they have been planted water them well with
a rose-can, and syringe them two or three times
each day, closing the house early on fine after-
noons. Maintain an atmospheric temperature of
62° at night. When the Vines expand their foliage,
and if they show signs of flagging, it will be ad-
visable to syringe a little whitening and milk over
the glass to provide a slight shade from sunshine
until the plants have become established in the
soil. Encourage them to make as much growth
as possible during the season, for the more wood
that is made, the better will the roots develop. If
the borders are entirely inside, which is the best
system for Vines intended for forcing very early
in the season, they will require an abundant sup-
ply of water at their roots when in full growth.

tints of the matured foliage are also attractions.
Nemesia strumosa nana compacta is similar
to the above, but the flowers are smaller,
and, as its name denotes, is more compact in
habit. The seed may be sown almost any month
of the year, but the present is a good time to
sow to have the plants in flower during May and
June. They will quickly germinate without the
aid of much heat. When strong enough, the
seedlings should be pricked off into the vases or
boxes in which it is intended to flower them,
using a good rich compost of loam, leaf-mould,
and cow-manure, and allowing two to three
inches between each plant. They usually remain
in flower' for a long time, and are exceedingly
attractive.

Ipomaa versicolor, a half-hardy annual, gene-
rally known as Mina lobata, a South Mexican
plant, is another desirable subject for using in
vases. As the plants are of climbing habit, they
require staking with neat twiggy branches. The
flowers, which at first are of bright rosy crimson
colour, change as they expand to an orange
shade, and then fade to a pale yellow colour. A
square-shaped vase well filled with this Ipoii^asa
has a very pleasing effect. The seeds should be
sown now in heat, placing two or three seeds
each in small pots, and then when growing
freely, plant them into the vases in a compost
of fibrous loam, leaf-mould, and cow-dung. The
vases should remain under glass until the
weather is warm enough to allow of the plants
being put out without incurring the risk of
receiving a check.

Salvia -farinacea, though seldom seen in gar-
dens, is an ideal plant for growing either in
borders or vases. Like S. patens and S. splen-
dens it requires protection in winter, but, like
the former, it is amenable to treatment as a half-
hardy annual. Seed sown now will produce
strong flowering plants by June or July. The
spikes of violet-blue flowers resemble very
strongly Lavender spikes, for which at first
glance they might very easily be mistaken. The
beautiful blue colouring of the stem is an attrac-
tive feature. By selecting seedlings possessing
the deepest colour and the best habit, from which
to propagate by cuttings in the autumn, a very
fine form could be obtained for future years.
Being a strong grower, this Salvia requires
liberal treatment as regards soil.

Anagallis grandifiora Pitillipsii and Commelina
ctclestis are two beautiful blue-flowering plants
that should be sown now in heat, to plant out to
.flower in the summer. The latter is a perennial
plant, but can be flowered in the first season from
seed.

Diascia Barbers, a perennial, is another
flowering plant that can be treated as a half-
hardy annual, and be sown at the present time,
in heat, to flower in the coming summer. The
rosy-pink, double-spurred flowers are produced
abundantly during July and August. It is an
excellent, dwarf plant for the front of borders,
or for use in shallow boxes to be placed on low
walls.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gaidener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Nemesia strumosa, introduced by Messrs.
Sutton, with its profusion of Linaria-like blos-
soms and graceful habit, is such a delightful
hardy annual, and so simple in its culture,
that'll is impossible to use it too freely. It
is singularly well adapted for growing in shal-
low flat vases, or decorated boxes for placing on
low walls and terrace balustrades, where if the
vases are filled each with a distinct colour, they
are decidedly effective. The flowers are of large
size, and can be had in five distinct colours of
crimson, rose-pink, rich orange, pale yellow
colour, and white, while the varied tones and

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook. Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Susses.

Newly Planted Trees. — These should now be
pruned and trained in their proper positions. In
the pruning of newly-planted trees, all the long,
weak growths should be cut back to a prominent
bud that will produce a strong shoot. Trained
trees will possibly require to be shortened, and
this will certainly be necessary in bush and
standard trees, in order to get thoroughly good
"leads." If the trees were not pruned, the sap
would rush to the top of the shoots, leaving
nearly the whole length more or less bare. At
the same time no hard and fast line can be given,
as all trees are not alike, and therefore the
operator must be guided by circumstances.
Autumn-planted trees generally "break" much
better and stronger than those planted in spring,
and may therefore need less pruning. In the
making of any ties be careful to leave sufficient
space "for the shoots to swell, as young trees
especially should grow very rapidly. If the
shoot has not room to swell, " gumming " and
other diseases may result. After this work has
been completed, rake over the surface of the soil
and apply a mulch, this being essential for
newly-planted trees. Strawy manure from the
stables is very suitable, and should be laid on
thickly. If the weather is dry, a watering will be

-serviceable, and no trouble should be spared in
getting young trees to make a thoroughly good
start.

Japanese Wineberry (Rubus fhanicolasius),
Logan Berry, and Raspberry. — If not already
done, the grov/ths of these should now
be tied firmly to stout stakes or to strained wire.
The Wineberry, which ripens between the main
season of the Raspberry and Blackberry, makes
it a valuable addition to this class of fruit.
Newly-planted specimens should be cut to the
ground line in order to promote strong growths
for another season.

Preparation for Grafting. — As was advised in
a previous Calendar, the scions should have been
cut off and laid in under a north wall, as it is
advisable to have the scions fully a fortnight
later than the stock. Prepare sufficient clay,
which should be free from stones, and mix with
this some horse or cow manure, working it well
together. This preparation is more generally
used in private establishments than grafting wax,
but either will answer the purpose. Those
who are not familiar with the art of grafting
would do well to practise the various cuts during
leisure moments in the evenings. Successful
grafting depends on the getting of a perfect union
between stock and scion, ^ni^ nothing but prac-
tice can make' the operstjct efficient. A very
sharp knife and a good eye are necessary re-
quirements.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke ol
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Spinach. — A large sowing of this vegetable may
now be made with every hope of obtaining a good
return at about the end of May. More often than
not the seed is sown too thickly, and the thinning
of the plants is neglected, with the result that the
leaves are not so large or succulent, nor is the
produce so plentiful as it should be. Employ the
hoe on the ground between the rows of winter
Spinach.

Peas. — Continue the periodical sowings of the
best varieties on well-trenched ground, and sow
the seed less thickly than was done for earlier
sowings. There is no need to sow closer than
3 inches from seed to seed, these forming two
iines. A greater percentage of well-filled pods
will result from this method than from closer
sowings. I have seen the haulm over 3 feet wide
at the top of the stakes from a single line of seeds
placed at 3 inches apart, so strongly did they
branch. The distances allowed between the lines
should be the same as the height of the particular
variety of Peas. If the Peas will grow 6 feet in
height allow the same between the lines.

Broccoli. — The sprouting varieties are now yield-
ing plentiful supplies for the kitchen, and a note
should be made of those varieties that give the
greatest satisfaction. These sprouting varieties,
should be grown in greater numbers, as no matter
how severe the frost may be they usually stand
well, although most other vegetables fail. The-
same may be said of the old Cottagers' Kale.
With so many changes in the weather Broccoli
has in many places become damaged, especially
where the growth had become strong and sappy.
1 strongly advise the planting of these on firm
ground to prevent such growth.

Parsley. — Make another sowing to have plants
that will yield a good supply through the summer
months. I prefer to sow in boxes or frames, and
transplanting the seedlings in lines drawn at a
foot apart by placing each plant 18 inches from
the next one. They have then a very pleasing
appearance all season, especially if a good variety
is used, of which " Dobbie's Selected" is a very
fine strain.

Winter Onions ha\e had a bad time lately, for
having become quite large through the mildness of
the winter, they are consequently not sufficiently
hardy. The almost daily changes in weather have
caused the plants to become somewhat brown in
appearance. An extra plantation of spring-grown
plants should be arranged for, and planted about
the middle of April.

Red Cabbages. — Plants raised from seeds sown in
the autumn should now be finally planted, to be
followed in succession by those sown in boxes in
the spring. They will succeed in any exposed
position.

The weather. — The most severe frost of the winter
or spring experienced here was on the morning of
the 14th inst., when 14° were registered.

184

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 190G.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, ns -.fell ns specimens and plants
for naming, should be nddrcsscd to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent CIS early in the week as possible, ntui duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undoiake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- TAc Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ &c., but ite
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Tiewspapers. — Corrcspomlents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark tlie paragraphs they'wish the Editor to see.

Local fiews.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matterswhichit is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

WEDNESDAY, Mar. .8 | "jf^P,""^ Spring Flower Show (.
THURSDAY, Mar. 29 Torquay Gard.Soc. Flower Show.
FRIDAY, Mar. 30 Roy. Bot.Soc. meet.

SATURDAY, Mar. 31 Dutch Gard. See. meet.

erected at the entrance of the Park at Ghent.
He it was who erected and maintained the
noble winter garden so familiar to visitors at
Ghent in former years, and which has been
illustrated in our columns on more than one
occasion.

The son followed in his father's footsteps
and has for many years presided over the
Society with dignity and tact. His energy,
powers of work, and faculty of organisation
were extraordinary. His eloquence was re-
markable, and his insight and progressive ideas
most stimulating. He was an ardent politician,
but found time to conduct a monthly horti-
cultural journal, in which he was the consistent
advocate of the necessity for infusing scientific
principles and scientific method into the opera-
tions of horticulture. A work on Palms, and a
similar one on Orchids, testify to his prodigious
industry and to his faculty for seizing, amid a
chaos of detail, the points of most pressing
importance as regards practical horticulture.

Average Temterature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 44'6\
Actual Temperatures: —

LoSDOs.— Wednesday, March 21 (6 p.m.) : Max. 43' ; Min.
34%
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, March •21
(10 A.M.): Bar., 30.2 ^ Temp., 41° ; H'ealhei —
Bright sunshine.
TROvltiCES.— Wednesday, March 21 (6 p.m.): Max. 45"
Ireland N.W. ; Min. 37° Southampton.

SALES.

MONDAY and ERIDAY—

Plants, Roses, Azaleas, Lilies, &c.,at6- & 68, Cheapsidr,

E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.
TUESDAY—

664 cases Japanese Lilies, Iris, Acers, &c., at 67 and GS,

Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at i.
WEDNESDAY—

Perennials, Lilies, Hardy bulbs, &c., at 12. Roses,

Azaleas, I^alms. &c., at i and 3, at 67 & 68, Gheapside,

E.G., by Protheroe & Morris.

Roses, Palms, Shrubs, &c., at Stevens' Rooms, King

Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.

FRIDAY—

Orchids in large variety, at 67 & 68, Gheapside, E.G., by
Protheroe & Morris, at 12.45.

The death of Count Oswald de
Count Kerchove is one of those events
Kepchove. which will engender not only pro-
found sorrow among those who
had the pleasure of his acquaintance, but will
create dismay in horticultural and botanical
circles in Belgium, more particularly in the
Societe Royale d'Agriculture et de Botaniquc
de Gand. That society, so well known in this
country for the splendour and interest of its
quinquennial exhibitions and its overflowing
hospitality to strangers, was sorely tried by
the death of Edward Pynaert, and quite re-
cently of its excellent secretary, M. Fierens.
It now reels under the staggering blow caused
by the death of its president. The Count
threw himself with such zeal and energy into
whatever he undertook that it is hard to
imagine how his place can be filled. In the
very last letter which he addressed to us, on
the occasion of the death of M. Fierens, he
said "We are asking ourselves whether wo
shaU be enabled to say 'uno avulso non deficit
alter ? ' " With even deeper significance may
this question now be asked.

It is many years since we first made his ac-
quaintance at one of the Ghent Quinquennials,
where his father, the late Count, presided.
The father was Burgomaster of Ghent, and
his memory is perpetuated by a monument

THE I.ATE COMTE DE KERCHOVE DE DENTERGHEM.
(From a portrait taken in middle life.) y.

Many of his articles were unsigned, others,
chiefly cultural, were written over the signature
of Eugene do Duren.

He was the chief of the Directing Council of
the State Botanic Garden at Brussels, and the
leading spirit in all public horticultur.al affairs
in Belgium. He was a foreign member of our
Royal Horticultural Society and one of the
select band of Veitch medallists.

Of his personal kindness and ready helpful-
ness we cannot bring ourselves now to speak
more at length. We can but join in the vast
concourse of horticulturists who are mourning
the death of the energetic, the learned, the
genial, the sympathetic Oswald de Kerchove.

Particulars of his last illness have not as yet
reached us, but those who knew him and were
aware of the precarious state of his health will
not be greatly surprised that the end has come.

M. de Kerchove was born at Ghent on
April I, 1844, and died in the same city on
March 20. The funeral took place on March
22, and, at the expressed wish of the Count, was
as simple as possible, neither mihtary honours
being paid nor public discourses delivered.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — In

continuation of a series of views of Sandringharj'
which have been reproduced in these pages
from time to time, by permission of His
Majesty, cur Supplement to the present issue
affords a peep into "The Dell," which is one
of the less formal portions of the garden. In
our Coronation Number, published on June 21,
1902, " The Dell " was described as " a charming
little scene, in which a winding stream flows
rapidly through rising banks on either side.
Several tall Birches, Bamboos, Rhododendrons,
Ferns, etc., adorn the banks, and the view is
not only a grateful retreat from brilliant sun-
shine, but it is a most delightful foil to the more
formal features of the garden." There have
been some improvements made since then, and
greater variety maj' now be seen in the plants.
One of the best of the new features is that
of a bank of Bamboos on a site previously
occupied by Portugal Laurels. The Bamboo.s
are thriving well. Vitis vinifera and Clematis
Vitalba climb to the top of some of the Birch
and Thorn trees, and their effect in the autumn
is exceedingly good. Rhododendrons, Osmunda
regalis, Foxgloves, Lilium candidum, Cypript-
dium spectabile, and numerous spring-floweriuf;
bulbs are all pleasant features of "The Dell,"
which is regarded at Sandringham with much
appreciation. ■

The Surveyors' Institution. — The next
Ordinary General Meeting will be held in the
Lecture Hall of the Institution on Monday, March
26, 190C, at 8 p.m., when the discussion on the
paper read by Mr, Woodward will be continued.

Flowers in Season. — From Messrs. W. B.
Hartland & Sons come flowers of a noble bicoloi
Daffodil, named Baylor Hartland. The flower
is symmetrical, fragrant, some 4 inches across, the
outer segments broadly ovate, the inner somewhat
narrower, all whitish or of very pale sulphur yellow,
the perianth as a whole resembUng that of a
Eucharis. The crown is bold, deep canary yellow,
longer than the segments, cylindric with project-
ing angles, and the limb deeply scalloped aiid
fringed. The perianth tube between the ovary
.iiid the segments is J inch in length, greenish and
broadly funnel-shaped.

Colonial Show in the Vincent Square
Hall. — Sir Thomas Fuller, Agent-General for
the Cape, held a reception on Wednesday night
:it the hall of the Royal Horticultural Society on
the occasion of the opening of the Cape Colony
exhibition of fruits and other products. In in-
troducing the Earl of Elgin, who was present,
,?ir Thomas Fvller said that the Cape was
going to enter the lists against the other great
food-producing colonies of the Empire, and the
spirit of the new movement which had arisen In
the colony had been demonstrated by a show in
London. ' The Earl of Elgin, in reply, said that
he was exceedingly glad to see what the Cape
Government had been able to send for exhibi-
tion, as the colony would have to take a pro-
minent part in the industrial work of the Empire.
.\ day might come when he could offer sugges-
tions, but at present he could only offer his
congratulations and best wishes for the future
to Sir Thomas Fuller and the Cape Govern-
ment. The show was opened to the public on
Thursday last after these pages h,' j q^cie to
press.

Horticultural Education in Monmouth-
shire.— The report of the Director of Agricul-
tural Education of the Monmouth Education Com-
mittee IS highly satisfactory. In the Horticultural
Department the instruction at the Farm School,
Little Mill, is highly appreciated, and the interest
shown by the lads is most encouraging. Arrange-
ments are being made to carry out demon.stra-
tions upon the pruning, planting and renovating
of orchards and fruit plantations, upon lines
similar to those carried on for some years
past. Lessons given upon the grading and
packing of fruit for market in cheap, ready made
boxes of a convenient size were again appreciated
by those who grow fruit for sale.

March 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

185

Models of Insect Pests. — We have
received for inspection some cases containing
various insect and fungus pests of gardens. Tiie
execution of tlie models is admirable, and they
would be useful to county council lecturers or any
engaged in teaching horticulture. The codlin
moth, winter moth, "Canker," &c., were easily
recognisable. Many are natural specimens which
have been preserved. The descriptions are in
German. However, the labels could easily be
translated. The person to whom we are indebted
for the opportunity of inspecting these is Mr.
William Frank, 12, Red Lion Square, Holborn.

Hybrid Vines. — The CEnopIiile records the
death of M. Amedee Jurie, the raiser of various
hybrids between the European forms of Vitis
\ inifnra and some American forms of V. rupestris
< nlonticola. He chose this last-named hybrid
as tliB pollen parent, having found by experience
tha' fructification was more satisfactory when a
crots was effected between V. vinifera and a
hy'jrid raised between two American species. His
cross, known as No. 102, was compounded of
ore-half French and one-half mixed American sap,
was very prolific, but not sufficiently resistant to
t'le Phylloxera or to the attacks of fungous para-
Mtes. He therefore crossed this No. 102 with
iuother American form whose powers of resistance
to the attacks of Phylloxera were well-established,
with the result that he obtained a cross, No 251,
whicli showed immunity from Phylloxera, but at
the expense of fertility. To remedy this latter
defect he crossed this same hybrid 251 with the
pollen of V. vinifera. The result of this last cross,
which he indicated by the number 580. presented
five-eighths American and three-eights French sap,
and combined important qualities, such as im-
munity from Phylloxera, great vigour, andsuflScient
productiveness. Having arrived at this result
from ordinary cross-breeding, M. Jl'r^ie then,
availing himself of M. Daniel's researches esta-
blishing the existence of graft hybrids and the
power of securing either amelioration or deteriora-
tion by means of grafting, endeavoured to find a
stock capable of transmitting to a graft the desired
qualities, or of enhancing those qualities which
are not sufTiciently developed. Acting on these
lines M. Jurie succeeded in raising forms showing
variation in form of leaf, bunches and berries,
changes of sex, separation of previously mixed
characters, increased power of resistance to Phyl-
. loxera, and especially improved quality of vine.
It will thus be seen that M. Jurie has exercised a
certain designed control over the phenomena of
ordinary hybridisation. Anxious to eliminate
personal bias, M. Jurie submitted the wines made
from his various crosses to the judgment of ex-
perts, who confirmed his own observations.

Agriculture in the Sand Deserts. — The
difficulties of the agriculturist whose land consists of
acres of practically unirrigated sand have to be met
by special treatment. Mr. Thomas Kearney, in a
Bulletin written for the United States Department
of Agriculture, describes his visit to northern
Africa, undertaken for the purpose of studying
the Date Palm and its methodof cultivation. This
excursion was from Nefta, in south-western Tunis,
to the Oued Souf, a remarkable and little known
part of the Sahara desert, and the information
.gleaned there by him should prove valuable to
agriculturists in other arid regions. In the country
of the Souf there is, practically, no rainfall, and
there are no streams nor springs nor flowing wells
to furnish water for irrigation. The soil is a pure
hard sand devoid of organic matter, and blown
about in clouds by every wind, so that increasing
vigilance is needed to keep the gardens free from
it ; also the summer heat is almost as great as any-
where in the world. Yet here the Date Palm
grows in perfection, yielding fruit of better quality
and in larger quantity than elsewhere in the
Sahara. These are plants requiring much mois-

ture, yet here are artificially irrigated in their first
summer only, being able afterwards to obtain for
themselves ground water, which is sufficiently
abundant some feet below the surface of the sand.
The Palms are planted in holes some 2 to 4 feet
deep, and require constant watching and labour to
keep them free from the drifting sand which,
otherwise, o\erwhelms and buries them. Manure
is applied to them, otherwise the plants receive
but little cultivation. It is suggested that even in
less tropical countries planters on sandy soils and
among sand-Iiills should note that ground water is
essential and sufficient for crops not otherwise
irrigated, and that the sand-hills concentrate and
reflect so much heat that the hollows among them
are veritable forcing houses. Therefore, fruit
grown therein might be ripened some weeks before
the bulk of the crop, and would, in consequence.
be of greatly enhanced value.

The Cotton Plant and Weevils. — A
curious instance of adaptation to circumstances
has been brought to light by the study of the
Cotton plants in Central .America, which have
been found to have developed numerous weevil-
resisting adaptations. In comparing these speci-
mens from Guatemala with others cultivated in
the United States a series of protective adapta-
tions has been revealed, of such number and
nicety as to furnish a unique and well-nigh in-
credible instance of selective development. Mr.
O. F. Cook, who has visited Guatemala and
studied the Cotton there grown, publishes the
results of his researches in a recent Bulletin of the
United States Department of. Agriculture. Hecon-
firms a statement previously made that the presence
of the weevil-eating " kelep," or ant, has enabled
the Indians of Eastern Guatemala to maintain,
since very ancient times, field culture of Cotton in
the presence of weevils, with the result that there
has been developed a dwarf, annual, short-season
variety with numerous features which, in the
absence of sufficient numbers of " keleps," afford
material assistance in prgtecting the crop against
the ravages of the weevil. The Cotton plant
appears to have modified even such distinctive
and important characters as its involucre, nec-
taries, oil glands, large bolls, even the very lint
itself, the better to resist its enemy. The adapta-
tions may be divided into four groups : — i. Those
calculated to avoid the weevils by general habits
of growth. 2. Those which exclude the weevils,
or at least hinder their operations in the buds and
bolls, 3. Those which attract insect enemies,
such as the weevil-eating "kelep. " 4. Those which
prevent the development of the weevil larvae, even
after the eggs have been laid .

Compounds (Poisonous) for Horticul-
tural AND Agricultural Purposes.— Mr.
C. H. Richards writes: — "I am pleased to
inform you that the Lord President of His
Majesty's Privy Council has introduced into the
House of Lords a Bill known as the ' Poisons
and Pharmacy Bill.' Clause 2 of this Bill
reads as follows :

2. (1) So much of the Pharmacy Act, 1863,
as makes it an offence for any person to sell
or keep open shop for poisons, unless he is
a duly registered pharmaceutical chemist or
chemist and druggist, and conforms to regu-
lations made under Section I of that' Act,
shall not apply in the case of poisonous sub-
stances containing arsenic, tobacco, or the
alkaloids of tobacco, for use exclusively in
connection with agriculture or horticulture, if
the per.son so selling or keeping open shop
is duly licer.sed for the purpose under this
section by a local authority, and conforms
to any regulations as to the keeping, trans-
porting, and selling cf poisons made under,
this section.
The principle of this claus; is precisely that
for which the Traders in Poisonous Compounds

Protection Society has for some years be'an con.
tending. It will be noted that the Bill provides
to authorise persons (who are not chemists) to
be licensed for the purpose by the local authori-
ties to sell insecticides, weed killers, sheep dips
and other poisonous substances for use in con-
nection with agriculture and horticulture, thus
carrying into effect the recommendations of the
Privy Council Departmental Committee."

Publications Received, — From the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Kew : Bulletin of Miscellaneous
Information. Appendix 11. 1906. Contents : Cata-
logue of the Library. Additions received during 1905.
— -Mso Additional Series V. The Wild Fauna and
Flora of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kezu. — Central
Experimental Farm, Ottawa. Results obtained in
1905 from trial plots of Grain, Fodder, Field Roots,
and Potatos. By Dr. William Saunders and Dr. Chas.
E. Saunders. — Advancement of .igriculture in Canada.
Evidence of Dr. WilHam Saunders, Director
Dominion Experimental Farms, before the Select
Standing Committee on Agriculture and Colonisation,
1905. — BuUetino delta R .Societii Toscand diOrticultura,
Febbraio 1906. — Handleiding voor Itet Snoeien van
Rozen, J. K. Budde. A translation, by Mr. Budde,
into Dutch, of the handbook lately published by our
National Rose Societv.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

DENDROBIUM WILSONI, Rolfe, n. sp. *

This is a beautiful and deliciously fragrant
Chinese Dendrobium, which was collected by Mr.
E. H. Wilson during his recent expedition on
behalf of Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, and
which has now flowered with the latter. Mr.
Wilson met with it only in one small wood near
Ya-chow, West Szechuan, at an altitude of 3,800
feet, growing chiefly on Oak trees, but occasionally
on rocks, and he remarks that it was very con-
spicuous from a distance, and exceedingly free-
flowering. It was collected in flower on May 12,
1904, and on one plant 400 fully expanded flowers
were counted. It belongs to the section Euden-
drobium, and is allied to the Indian D. trans-
parens, Wall., but has considerably larger flowers
of a very delicate shade of pink, with a small
yellow blotch on the disc of the lip, on wdiich
occur a number of minute dark purple dots, and
these extend in a broad line to the base. They
vary somewhat in colour, for Mr. Wilson records
them as self pink, sometimes nearly white, with a
chocolate blotch at the base of the lip, over 3
inches across, borne on the old and leafless
pseudo-bulbs, which latter are thin, and li to 2
feet long. It is certainly a very charming thing,
and an interesting addition to the ranks of culti-
vated species. The flowers sent by Messrs. Veitch
are not_ equal to the wild dried specimens in size,
showing that they are not yet fully established.
li. A. Rolfe.

PRIMULA FORTUNEI.
This interesting plant, which is of doubtful
origin, has been in cultivation nearly 50 years,
having been figured by T. Moore in the Floral
Miigazinc. i860, t. 7. It there states that the
figure was drawn from a plant which flowered in

* Dendrobium Wilsoni, Rolfe. Pseudo-bulbs cylindrical,
slender, 1A-2 feet long. Leaves oblong or lanceolate oblong,
unequally bidentate and obtuse at the apex, 2-3 inches long,
6-10 lines broad. Racemes on the old leafless stems, axillary,
^ inch long, 2-3-fiowered. Bracts ovate, apiculate or the
lower obtuse, imbricate, 3-5-nerved, 3-4 lines long. Pedicels
slender, i-ij inches long. Sepals lanceolate-pblong, obtuse,
i-i^ inches long. Petals elliptical-oblong, ottuse, rather
broader than the sepals and about as long. Lip elliptical,
obtuse, somewhat narrowed near the base, rather shorter
than the sepals, 7-8 lines broad ; disc tuberculate at the
base. Column very short and stout. Mentnm curved, ob-
tuse. 4-5 lines long. Colour of flower blush pink, with a buff
yellow blotch on the disc, minutely dotted with purple, the
dots extending in a broad line to the tuberculate bas*.* Foot
of column yellow, with some purple dots and steaks.
Native of West Szechuan, where it was collected at 3,800
feet altitude by Mr. E. H. Wilson, collector for Messrs.
James Veitch & Sons. R. A . Rolfe.

186

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1909.

the nursery of Messrs. G. Henderson & Son,
Wellington Road, St. John's Wood, and that
It also received a certificate at one of the
meetings of the Royal Botanic Society. Owing
probably to its half-hardy nature it is still a very
rare plant, the only one possessing it to my
knowledge being Col. Beddome, Sispara, West
Hill, Putney, who lately presented a plant of it in
flower to the Kew authorities. P. Fortune! may
be described as somewhat intermediate between
P. denticulata and P. formosa. It has the coarsely
dentate leaves of P. erosa without any meal, and
in the present plant the stems are between 3 and 4
inches high, bearing a somewhat loose umbel of
flowers. The figure in the Floral Magazine shows
a more robust plant, much taller, and with large,
dense heads of flowers after the style of P. denti-
culata. The upper part of the stem, as well as
the pedicels and calyx, is covered with a mealy
powder. The flowers are about -i inch in diameter,
bluish-lilac in colour, with a primrose yellow eye,
reminding one of P. farinosa. Col. Beddome
says that it requires a cold frame during the winter
as it is not hardy enough to stand outside, while in
the summer it is plunged outside in a somewhat
shady, moist position. It produces seed although
not freely, and it may also be increased by division
of the crowns after the plant has done flowering.
In bloom in February it is a useful plant for the
cold house, and a distinct member of a large and
popular genus. W. I.

KEW NOTES.

MR. THOMAS SMITH, V.M.H.

Among the last batch of gardeners hcooured
by the receipt of this distinction is Mr. Thomas
Smith, of Newry. This gentleman is well known
to our readers as an enthusiastic cultivator of
interesting hardy plants. The receipt of a box
from him always excites curiosity, for there is
sure to be something novel or interesting in it,
something which maltes us wonder whence he
could have procured it. Mr. Smith is, we be-
lieve, of English birth, but went to Ireland many
years ago, and was for several years manager
of the nurseri-es of Messrs. Rodger McClelland
and Co., of Newry. On leaving their establish-
ment he first occupied a couple of fields facing
south-east on the slope of a hill, and he has
gradually extended his nursery by the purchase
of the whole hill, from the top of Avhich a splen-

Rhododendeon indicum odtusum.

This plant, better known in gardens, perhaps,
by the name of Azalea obtusa, is worthy of more
attention from plant cultivators. Several plants
in No. 4 Greenhouse are a mass of flower. In
fact, so thickly are they covered with flowers that
very few leaves can be seen. The flowers are
about an inch across, and may be described as
of a dark brick-red colour. It is easily propa-
gated from cuttings, branches very freely, and
forms a dense bush.

Under cool greenhouse treatment it flowers in
March, but if placed in a little heat it can easily
be obtained in flower six weeks or two months
earlier. Except in very favoured localities it is
not to be recommended for open-air cultivation.

Several plants of the white variety are flower-
ing in the same house. A curious feature of this
plant is that the flowers are often streaked with
red. Sometimes whole branches revert to the
type ; a red patch or two amongst a mass of
white flowers gives it a novel appearance. A. 0.

Tecom.\ Smithh X .

A NOTE on this plant in the issue for March 10
speaks of it as a greenhouse climber. At Kew
a number of plants are flowering in No. 4 at the
present time. Here it is grown as a pot plant
from 1 foot to 3 feet in height ; the taller plants
are two years old. Treated as a climber, unless
in a very sunny position, it seldom flowers well,
the growths failing to ripen sufficiently.

The best method of growing it is to insert cut-
tings in spring. Restrict each plant to one shoot,
grow them singly in 5-inch pots, near the roof-
glass in a house till the beginning of July. The
plants may then be stood outside in a warm,
sunny position. Being in small pots, they re-
quire an abundance of water. By the end of
September the growths will be well ripened, and
each plant may be depended on to produce a
good head of flowers. When developing the
flower spikes the plants should be fed liberally
with manure. Remove all the lateral shoots as
they appear. '

Some of the plants here are cut back after
flowering and grown on a second year. Potted
into 7-inch pots, each plant is restricted to three
or four grovifths, receiving similar treatment to
those in 5-inch pots. .4. 0.

MR. THO.MAS SMITH, V.M.H.

did view of Carlingford Loch and the adjacent
mountains is obtained. His nursery is now in
the very foremost rank so far as hardy plants
are concerned, and the proprietor is so enthusi-
astic and so genial that a visit is a real treat to
the connoisseur. Mr. Smith devotes much of
his time to landscape gardening, and has laid
out and planted several interesting and beautiful
gardens.

As was announced on p. 104, the other three
gentlemen recently elected to receive this honour
are Mr. R. I. Lynch, Curator of the Botanic
Garden, Cambridge, Mr. William Marshall, and
Mr. Harry J. Veitch, portraits of all of whom
have already appeared in these pages.

THE PROTECTION OF FRUIT

AND OTHER CROPS FROM

FROST IN SPRING.

The problem of how to protect our fruit tree
blossoms and embryo fruits and early veget-ibles
from destruction by frost in spring seems as far
from being solved in thess days of horticultural
progress and advanced scientific knowledge as
it was in the rule-of-thumb days forty or fifty
years ago.

The industry of fruit-growing in England has
loomed large before the public mind of late. The
incidental conditions bearing for and against its
prosperity having been vigorously and freely dis-
cussed in lectures, public meetings, and in the
Press, and, more important still, the Government
has recently appointed a committee of experts
to receive evidence, and to report on the fruit in-
dustry of England, Again, last autumn we had
an important conference on the same subject

lasting three days. Every topic that could be
thought of as bearing in any way on the pro-
sperity or otherwise of the industry was ably
discussed and expounded in great detail by
many of the cleverest and ablest exponents of
the subject in Britain. Let us hope that their
labours will bear good fruit in the near future.
The question represented by the heading of
this note, namely, the protection of fruit
tree blossoms and early vegetable crops from
destruction by spring frosts, is worthy of
the most searching inquiry and the deepest
study and consideration of these engag;d in hor-
ticulture. The man who finds out a practical
and successful solution to this — certainly the
greatest of all hindrances in the way of success-
ful fruit growing in England — will prove to be
a national benefactor.

The seasons as they come round, almost with-
out exception, bring us rich and over-abun-
dant quantities of fruit blossom, far more than
is ever required to provide good crops. Almost
with the same certainty does the cruel spring
frost dodge the heel of this abundance of
promise, and, with few exceptions, every season
we have to deplore the partial destruction of our
crops, and often, as was the case last /ear,
nearly their complete obliteration.

I do not think this question has ever been
previously considered or looked at full in the
face with the object of finding a remedy. Let
me relate my experience with regard to the visita-
tion and duration of destructive spring frosts. I
do not now speak of two or three degrees, of
which we have frequent experience through the
spring. This does comparatively no harm. It
is when we have from six to ten and even fifteen
degrees that the great destruction takes place.
Now it so happens that this wave of severe frost
sweeps across the country, according to my ex-
perience, between May 20 and 29, and, as fre-
quently as not, the whole damage is done in one
night, and certainly these severe frosts seldom
extend beyond five. There are exceptions, of
course. To be forewarned is to be forearmed,
and the time of this visitation being thus
focussed should naturally help the cultivator to
successfully cope with it. I remember very well
some years ago a gardener in the neighbourhood
of London was very anxious for the safety of his
crops on a Sunday night, May 23 or 24, owing
to the indications of coming hard frost apparent
early in the evening. There was much at stake^
.Strawberries in full bloom, Potatos, and other
young and tender vegetable crops in active
growth. He decided to call his men together in
the evening, and, with a strong force, and
a team of horses and carts, as much littery
straw and other covering material as was avail-
able were carted on the ground and jpread
over the most valuable crops. Thus several
acres were protected and saved, whilst others in
the neighbourhood were totally destro\'ed. There
were 15 degrees of frost that night and none to
speak of afterwards. Coming events cast their
shadows before them, and the observant man
can generally tell from the appearance of the
early evening whether there is going to be a hard
frost during the night or not. Few people are
aware how slight a covering of material is neces-
sary to protect trees and other tender subjects
from frost. A handful of strawy litter spread
thinly over Strawberry plants or rows of Potatos
is ample protection from a frost such as that
mentioned above. I am happy to know that the
precaution is now taken by most up-to-date gar-
deners to have some litter laid in preparation
between the rows of crops at this dangerous sea-
son, so that it can be applied when danger is
apprehended. For the protection of dwarf crops
I do not think there is a better or more
economical way than this ; but in the case of
fruit trees of high or moderate growth, this
method would not apply, and this brings me
to the method advocated and practised by Mr.
Martin, of the Toddington Orchard Co., as
mentioned by him at the Fruit Conference
last autumn, namely, by creating sufficient

March 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

18/

heat in the atmosphere to dispel the frost
by the burning of lamps at night while hard
frost lasts. He states that by burning 100 lamps
to the acre for four hours he was able to raise
Ihe temperature 9 degrees, namely, from 24 de-
grees to 33 degrees, and thus secure the safety
of his crops, and at the comparatively small cost
of 30s. A more detailed statement of Mr. Mar-
tin's practice, giving a few details of the size of
his lamps, their price, and for how many nights,
as a rule, he finds it necessary to use them,
would be gratefully hailed by many readers of
the Gardeners^ Chrcnich.

Some few years ago this idea occurred to me,
and I had it tried on a small scale one cold night
in a plantation of Strawberries in bloom. There
is no doubt that the temperature can be appreci-
ably raised in this way, provided there be suffi-
cient lamp power ; but in my case the wind was
rather high, and it quickly dissipated the heat
from the small area of land tried before it had
time to appreciably warm the air. Sir Albert
Rollit stated in these pages (see page 312, Octo-
ber 28, 190.)), writing of this system of protect-
ing 'tender crops from frost: "I have seen
a similar plan in Florida applied to the culture
of Pineapples in the open. There, faggot fires
are kept ready to be lighted among the growing
Pines, which are also protected against the effect
of radiation by an open horizontal lattice-work,
the open sections being about one foot square.
Evidently the Florida Pine growers have dis-
covered the same difficulty that I did in respect
to the too rapid dissipation of the heat by wind,
and it is evident that before this system can be
successfully applied, some protection must be
provided against this contingency, especially on
the windy side. Let us hope that the system
will be put to the proof by many this spring, so
that its value or otherwise may be practically
uemonstrated. Owen Thomas.

THE MENDELIAN LAWS OF
INHERITANCE.

In view of the general interest now taken in
Mendel's theory of inheritance, and of the able
explanation of the results of experiments given
by Mr. C. C. Hurst at a meeting of the Scien-
tific Committee of the Koyal Horticultural
Society on Tuesday last, the following note on
the subject may held our readers the better to
t.nderstand the nature of the problem. Mr.
Hurst, who has obligingly contributed this
communication, has himself conducted very
numerous experiments in respect to animals as
well as plants, some of which have served to
prove the truth of certain laws laid down by
Mfndel.

(1) Law of Dominance.

'■ Mendel experimented with seven pairs of
pure bred " characters " in Peas, viz., yellow and
green se;ds (co:y!edons), round and wrinkled
see-is, purple and white flowers, tall and dwarf
stems, infisted and constricted pods, green and
yellov/ pods, axial and terminal flowers. In
each pair, when crossed, Mendel found the first-
named character dominant over the other, which
hs called recessive; e.g., yellow crossed with
g:oen gave seeds all with yellow cotyledons. In
this case yellow is dominant over green, which
is recessive.

Mendel's law of dominance has been found
to hold good in a large number of characters in
many species of plants and animals ; e.g., in my
own experiments I have tested the following,
among ethers (the dominant character is the
one first mentioned.

Peas. — Round and wrinkled seeds ; yellow and
green cotyledons.

Swat Peas.— TAX and dwarf stems (Cupid) ;
sap-coloured and white flowers.

Primula.— VsXxa. and fern leaf; thrum and
pin-eye.

Orchids. — Sap-coloured and white flowers ;
spotted and striped flowers.

Poultry. — Rose and single comb ; white and
black plumage.

Kabbits. — Coloured and white coat ; short and
angora coat.

Horses. — Bay and chestnut colour ; brown and
chestnut colour.

(2) Law of Segregation.
In the second generation, when the hybrid
dominants (Dx R) (D standing for dominant,
R for recessive) were self-fertilised, Mendel
found that segregation or splitting of the charac-
ters took place in the lafio of three dominants,
D, to one recejs.ve, R ; e.g., the hybrid yellow
Peas (Y X G) self-fertilised, gave on the average
75 per cent, yellows and 2j per cent, greens, both
types often appearing in the same pod. The law of
segregation was also confirmed in the above ex-
periments with various plants and animals ; the
recessive character, after " skipping a genera-
tion," re-appeared apparently unchanged.

(3) Law of Purity.

In the third generation Mendel found that the
extracted recessives bred true, without reversion
to their dominant parents or ancestors; e.g.,
the green Peas extracted from the hybrid yel-
lows (Y X G) bred true greens, with no trace
of yellow. Mendel also tested the dominants of
the second generation, and found them to be of
two kinds, in the ratio of one pure, two hybrid.
The pure dominants bred true, while the hybrid
dominants iegicgated again into 3D: 1 R ; e.g.,
the yellows bred from the hybrid yellows (Y x
G) were one-third pure yellows which bred true,
with no trace of green, and two-thirds hybrid
yellows which gave 75 per cent, yellows and 25
per cent, greens.

Mendel continued these experiments through
several generations, with the same result. The
Mendelian formula for segregation is therefore
1 D : 2 DR : 1 R, i.e., 25 per cent pure domi-
nants, 50 per cent, hybrid dominants, and 25 per
cent, pure recessives. The law of purity was
also confirmed in the above experiments with
various plants and animals, the extracted reces-
sives in all cases breeding true, with no trace of
the dominant parents and ancestors.

The Mendelian Theorv.

Mendel did not apparently offer any explana-
tion of the facts of dominance, nor has any satis-
factory theory of dominarxe yet been pro-
pounded. Mendel, however, brought fcrward a
simple theory, which fully accounts for both the
facts of segregation and purity, viz., the segre-
gation of the gametes (germ cells) cf the hybrid,
so that on the average one-half of the gametes
carry the dominant character and one-half the
recessive character ; no gamete carries both.

This is known as the theory of gametic segre-
gation or gametic purity. On this hypothesis,
the gametic constitution of the offspring of the
hybrid dominants (D x R) will be, on the
average, DR x DR = 1 DD : 2 DR : 1 RR,
i.e., 25 per cent, pure dominants, 50 per cent,
hybrid dominants, and 25 per cent, pure reces-
sives. This result is in close agreement with
the actual numbers Mendel obtained in his ex-
periments.

Practical Application of the Mendelian

Laws.
When the Mendelian characters coincide with
the " points " desired by the breeder, as they do
in many cases, a knowledge of the Men-
delian- laws will enable him to get what he
wants in the shortest possible time. If the de-
sired character is a recessive, it will breed true
at sight. If it is a dominant, several individuals
may have to be bred from before the pure
dominant is found, but ones found it will breid
true. "When several Mendelian characters are
desired in combination, a much larger number
of individuals will be required to secure the
pure form, but once found, no " fixing " will be
required ; it will breed true at once. The old
system of "fixing" by many years' selection
leaves all to chance, and in the light of present
knowledge is largely a waste of time.

When the desired " point " of the breeder is
not a simple Mendelian character, but rather a

compound one made up of more than the simple
Mendelian unit, as is evident in certain cases,
the breeder must rely on the assistance of the
Mendelian experimenter, who will proceed to
analyse it by exact methods ; once the Men-
delian elements are discovered, the compound
character will be as easily worked by the breeder
as a simple one.

The phenomenon of dominance apparently ex-
plains the oft-observed facts of characters
"skipping a generation."

The results of recent experiments show that
the law of dominance is apparently not univer-
sal, for in some cases the hybrid dominants
do not exactly resemble the pure dominant
parent, there being some traces of the recessive
character, the dominance being incomplete. In
other cases, the hybrid appears to be inter-
mediate, and in a few cases the hybrid is dif-
ferent from either of its parents, and perhaps a
" reversion." These exceptional cases have not
yet been fully worked cut, but, so far, most of
them follow the Mendelian laws of segregation
and purity.

The facts of dominance show that the out-
ward appearance of an individual is often no
guide at all to its breeding potentialities, and
that a knowledge of its gametic constitution is
the only guide to its heredity ; this can only
be secured by a Mendelian analysis. Recent
experiments with mice, rabbits, Sweet Peas and
Stocks show clearly, e.g., that the gametic con-
stitution of albinos (whites) is often very com-
plex.

When more than one pair of Mendelian
characters are concerned in the cross, the aver-
age result can be easily calculated, e.g., a hy-
brid round yellow Pea will give : —
(3R + IW) X (3Y + IG) = 9RV + 3RG +

3WY -t- IWG.
The Mendelian laws show the necessity of
breeding from single individuals, or if more
than one be bred from, care should be taken
that each individual of the batch has the same
gametic constitution.

The facts of correlation or coupling ot charac"-
ters should be carefully watched and noted by
the breeder, or his calculations may be upset.
Last, but not least, Mendelian experiments with
plants and animals have shown clearly that, as
a rule, reciprocal crosses give similar results.
These maj' serve a useful purpose in exposing
once more the popular delusion that the " male
parent gives the colour, while the female parent
gives the form."

Many other questions of practical value are
involved in the Mendelian laws of inheritance,
but further experiments are necessary before one
can venture to deal with them confidently.
C. C. Hurst.

NURSERY NOTES.

ORANGE CULTURE AT MESSRS. RIVERS'
SAWBRIDGEWORTH NURSERIES.
A day in early March with a strong " north-
wester " blowing is not the time one would ordi-
narily select for visiting a fruit nursery, but even
on the most inhospitable day the visitor to these
nurseries can, without discomfort, enjoy a round
of sightseeing, for is not this establishment
famed for its orchard houses, which at the pre-
sent time are both interesting and beautiful?
In some the trees are in full flower, others have
the fruit already set, and are pushing their young
growths ; potting is in operation here, budding
there, and so' on all through the various stages
of indoor fruit culture. But perhaps the most
interesting sight of all at the present time is a
small house measuring 60 feet in length contain-
ing the major portion of a crop of over 500
Oranges. This Orangery is now in its full
beauty, for in addition to being laden with these
beautiful, golden-coloured fruits, the trees are
also carrying their fragrant flowers from which
next season's crop of fruits will arise, while the

ISS

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1906.

green of the youn; shoots is scarcsly less
beautiful. It is ind-eed a glorious sight, and
after seeing it we wondered why Oranges are
not more often grown in gardens in this country,
seeing the splendid results that can be thus
obtained, and at comparative little trouble and
expense — certainly not more than in Peach cul-
ture under glass. It may, perhaps, be remarked
that Oranges can be purchased cheaply, and, if
so, why gq to the trouble and expense of grow,
ing them? But how different in flavour are these
hothouse fruits to imported ones ! Then, again,
the season when Oranges are available is one
which finds our fruit houses empty, and we have
little, almost nothing, in the gardens to place
upon the dessert table. Oranges can be had
before Christmas, and their season extends far
into the spring. Another feature in their favour
is that they ripen their fruits at intervals, so
that one tree will furnish a succession in itself,
while the fruits hang for a long period when
ripe, and some that were in condition in this
Orangery at Christmas time were still hanging
at the time of our visit. Several houses at
.Sawbridgeworth are devoted to the raising and
general culture of Oranges, but it is of this one .
fruit house that we wish more particularly to
speak. It may be stated at the outset that
there is nothing remarkable about the structure —
indeed of the many glass houses at Messrs.
Rivers' establishment this is one of the least
pretentious. It is by no means new, nor does
it differ in any respect from hundreds of similar
span-roofed structures in gardens. Its length as
stated is 60 feet, the width 15 feet, and the
height, roughly speaking, about 10 feet. It is
furnished with side, bottom and top ventilators,
and with two sets of hot water pipes, one being
level with the border to suj^ply bottom heat, and
the other is at a level with the bottom ventilators
to warm the admitted air. The trees are
planted, after the manner of Peach trees, at a
distance of 6 feet apart, and are trained about
the same distance from the glass as is usually
allowed for these latter trees. We may here
remark that the culture of Oranges and Peaches
indoors have much in common, and, substituting
one fruit for the other, one might easily imagine
oneself looking down a well-furnished Peach
house when viewing this Orangery. The trees
are trained to the wires, the shoots being dis-
posed evenly, and kept at about 9 inches from the
glass. The branches are not allowed to reach
the full height of the house owing to the dense
nature of the foliage, which would, were they
allowed to grow to the top, exclude almost all
the light. The temperature of the house in
winter is not allowed to fall below 50°, and it
may be allowed to run up several degrees higher
in sunshine before admitting ventilation, for
tho Orange does not like cold draughts. The
trees are planted in the borders in a mixture of
strong turfy loam and leaf-mould ; no manure is
incorporated in the compost, as the Orange dis-
likes organic manures, a little soot-water applied
occasionally being all they require in this re-
spect. Water shoud be applied judiciously, and
in a somewhat similar manner as to Peach trees
in borders, allowing drier or wetter conditions,
according'to the seasons of active growth or rest.
The r '•ent secret to success in Orange culture is
cleanliness ; onee allow the trees to become in-
fested with mealy bug, scale, or any other pest,
and the result is disaster. With clean stock at
the start, however, it is a simple matter to keep
them in order, and, providing they are sponged
as soon as th'e first signs of these enemies appear,
little apprehension need exist on this account.
Bug is perhaps the chief source of mischief, and
plants at all susceptible to the ravages of this
pest should never be permitted in the house.
Xot much pruning is necessary if the trees are
bearing freely, for like other fruiting treas the
Orange does not make much growth when
cropping heavily. It does not, however, mind
the knife, and it is quite safe to cut hard into
the old wood without fear of danger. We were
shown an instance of how readily these trees

will break into new growth when cut hard back.
In one of the houses some trees used for furnish-
ing scions ior propagating purposes had out-
stripped their quarters, and it was decided t'l
reduce their " heads '" and shift them from the
borders into tubs. They had been pruned
severely both at their roots and branches, and
placed in their receptacles. Each tree broke
away into new growth, and when we saw them
the young growths were full of flower buds.

Propagation.
The Orange is propagated from seed, and the
ease with which it is thus increased accounts
for the small advance which, until lately, was
made in the quality of varieties in Orange-
growing countries. But to perpetuate the
best kinds — for there are named varieties —
it becomes necessary to practise grafting. The
Orange is worked upon the Lemon as a stock,
the Lemons being raised for the purpose from
" pips " or seeds. Messrs. Rivers annually raise
numbers of seedling Lemons, the seeds being
obtained from one of the large preserve manu-
facturers. These are grown for a couple of
j'ears, when they arc ready for grafting. The
scions are grafted in the ordinary way, and as the
Orange is an evergreen the foliage is present on
the graft The stock in a small pot is cut back,
the scion inserted and bound with grafting
cotton — a kind of coarse worsted — and the junc-
ture smeared with a little grafting wax. The
plants are then placed in a close propagating
frame in a warm pit, and kept close and moist
for several weeks, the light being carefully ex-
cluded with an Archangel mat. We peeped into
one of these "cradles"; the plants were lying
on their sides on cocoanut fibre, and all showed
evidence of successful union between stock and
scion. After a time a little ventilation is
allowed, and this is increased as time proceeds,
but they are not removed from bottom heat for
several months Messrs. Rivers raise large
numbers of these trees annually, many being
sold to colonial governments for distribution
among the colonists. The stock at the time of
our visit numbered over one thousand trees,
contained in two large houses.

The Orchard Houses.

Orange culture forms but a small part of the
work of the nursery. Dozens of large orchard
houses are full of all kinds of fruit trees in pots,
Apples, Pears, Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, Figs,
Cherries, Grape-Vines, Strawberries, etc., beini;
grown in hundreds. There are about thirty fruit
houses in all, which number gives one a good
idea of the extensive nature of the culture ol
orchard-house trees in Messrs. Rivers' nursery.
One house measuring 100 feet by 20 feet, filled
with Peach and Nectarine trees, was started at
the commencement of the New Year. The fruits
are now at their,stoning period, and picking is
expected to commence at about the end of next
month. Every tree was well furnished with
fruits, and although some thinning has been
done more will be necessary. The orchard
houses have floors formed of the natural soil,
which is quite hard and solid ; the path is
rammed gravel and clay. The beds are sur-
faced with a thin layer of cinders. The Cherry
house is a lovely sight when the trees are in full
flower. These trees, many of them of great age,
make but little wood, the long spurs continuing
forming fruit buds year after year until they are
a foot or more in length. Contrary to what
might be expected, these pot trees do not wear
out soon, and we were shown a tree of Magdalen
Peach that had been grown continuously in a
pot for 30 3'ears. ifulberries are also seen in
pots, and one grand specimen which annually
bears a very large crop of fruits is about 40 vcars
old.

Messrs Rivers have long been engaged in the
raising of new varieties of fruit trees, and one
may see seedling trees in all stages. Seedlings
in pans were just bearing their cotyledons, while
others further advanced were promising fruit for

this season. It is a long and expensive under-
taking, and often disappointing. .Sometimes the
seedling tree will produce a fruit of great pro-
mise the first year of fruiting, but the next year
and after, the succeeding fruit is worthless.
However, when a prize is secured, much disap-
pointment is compensated for, such as when
their newest Peach Peregrine was secured. This
is a mid-season variety, said to be of robust
constitution, prolific in fruiting, and describeJ
as a good all-round variety. '

The trees for pot culture are selected
from the nurserj', only the very best shaped
examples being used, and these must have a good
root system, plenty of fibrous roots being essen-
tial. The work of potting trees was proceeding
at the time of our visit. The roots are carefully
trimmed, all broken ends severed with a clean
cut, and the stoutest shortened back. The com-
post was rough loam with plenty of manure, and
for stone fruit som.e mortar rubble. The pot-
ting is done very firmly, the rammer being freely
worked, so that when the worK is completed the
tree can be lifted by the stem without drawing
the plant from the pot. The trees are allowed
to become established for a j'ear or more, after
which they are ready for the market.

Before concluding our visit we made a round
of inspection of the outdoor departments. The
extent of the nursery is, roughly, about 300 acres,
and here are grown fruit trees of every description
by the thousand. In addition to fruit trees,
Jlessrs. Rivers do a large trade in Roses and
shrubs. Grafting was in operation, but bud-
ding is preferred and more largely practised.
Nothing is gained by the former process, and it
requires 50 per cent, more labour. Two men
can bud an enormous quantity of trees in the
season, one inserting the bud and the other
tying, whereas it takes four men to do the work
of grafting — one to prepare and insert the scion,
another to tie, one to place the clay on the
graft, and still another to shape the "pug." In
two Apple trees seen, the one gralted in the
springtime and the other budded later, no dif-
ference whatever was apparent. An eld Plum
tree that appeared to be valued for more than its
decrepitude excited our curiosity. It was split
in two, and supported by proiis to bear the
weight of the branches. This was the original
seedling tree of Early Prolific Plum raised by
the late Mr. Thos. Rivers in 1834. Its progeny
is found in many gardens, and it is surrounded
where it stands by numerous descendants, many
of them venerable trees themselves. The cM
tree itself was full of fruit buds, although its
days appear to be numbered. It is interesting
as furnishing a criterion of the length of life of
a Plum tree Irnm the seed — in this case 72 years.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor docs not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ^v his correspondents.)
Independent Sectional Saddle Boilers.
— It would be useful to liave the opinions of gar-
deners, who ha\*e the abo\e boilers in use, as to
their merits and demerits, and how their capacity
for heating compares with boilers of other shapes
and principles, I refer to the somewhat new form
which has been introduced of late years, where
the boiler is made of sections which connect
togetlier by rods and screws. It is somewhat
dome-shaped, witli one or two flues through it
above the lire, and stands quite independent of
any brickwork whatei'er. Doubtless many are in
use, as they are advertised by various firms
under as many different names ; but all are prac-
tically the same in principle. I was induced to
try one in 1904 to replace an ordinary flued saddle-
boiler with the usual brickwork setting, and so far
I ha\*e nothing but praise for the newer iorm. It
gets up heat quickly, and retains it well ; there
appears to be no more loss of heat from the boiler
being exposed than there is from those set in
brickwork, which has somewhat surprised me:
and it has decided advantages over the old form
in having all its joints and surfaces fully open to
inspection— tlie fact that a section can be taken

Makch 24, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

1^9

out and replaced by a new one whenever a leakage
appears, the easy and economical plan of setting
without any brickwork, and the certainly of find-
ing a leakage as soon as it appears, without the
delay caused by cutting away brickwork. Owing
to alterations in the piping when the new boiler
was put in I cannot compare its consumption of
fuel with that of the previous one. If anyone has
one of these boilers working with the same
amount of piping that another kind had, I shall
be glad to know how it compares in this respect
with the previous boiler. My own idea is that
it is more economical, but for the above
reason I cannot prove it. Is it not time we had
an independent trial of all the principal boilers,
carried out side by side, under carefully arranged
and exactly similar conditions? I ask this ques-
tion because I think we gardeners are often too
conservative in our ideas ; we are too timid to
leave the beaten track and take up a fresh plan ;
and when a thing has done well we stick to it,
forgetful of the fact that all things around us are
in a state of change. When there is an improve-
ment to be had it is a wise plan to secure it as
soon as possible. 11-'. H. Divers, Belvoir Castle
Gardens, Grantham.

Packing Seeds for the Tropics. — The dis-
cussion which for some weeks has been carried
on in the Gardeners^ Chronicle on the above im-
portant subject must be my excuse for making
the following observations. A few years ago an
officer in the Indian army stationed at Feroze-
pore wrote to me and asked me to purchase for
him a set of common, old-fashioned flower
seeds and forward them to him. As I lived
within a few minutes of Mr. Russell's shop in
Richmond at the time, I called in, and his
assistant sorted out for me between 20 and 30
different sorts, including Mignonette, Carnation,
Pansy, Sweet William, Wallflower, Sweet Peas,
Polyanthus, etc., etc. These I had in ordinary
paper packets, wrapped in brown, paper. I
rimply addressed the parcel and sent it away.
The following year I received a letter from the
gentleman asking me to forward him another set
from the same place, as everything had done
so well. The second set was sent in exactly the
same manner, and the result was quite as satis-
factory. Now, if seeds of this description travel
so well and germinate so well, in the hands of
the veriest amateur, surely there is not so much
need for any special preparation, hermetically
sealed tins and so forth, as is set out as essential
by the extract from Mr. Hart's letter published
in the Gardeners' Chronicle for February 17. I
may add that during the last 15 years I have
had the handling of many thousands of packets
of seeds coming from almost every part of the
world and packed in a great many different
ways, but principally in paper packets enclosed
in paper wrappers, and I have found seeds from
Australia, New Zealand, India, China, North
and South America, Africa, and other far-away
countries germinate quite as well as those re-
ceived from France or from establishments in
F.ngland. The greatest losses from improper
packing that have come under my notice have
been in such sorts as Acorns and Chestnuts ;
these quickly lose their vitality in a dry atmo-
sphere and should never be packed dry ; an
ordinary wooden box with cocoanut fibre for
packing forms an excellent means of transit. It
IS also well known among people who
have had much to do with hardy seeds
that, in some cases, a very decided change
of temperature rather than being detrimental
t ) their vegetative qualities is beneficial; for in-
stance, such seeds as those of Crata2gus, Pyrus,
Wosa, Ilex, Viburnum, Acer, etc., that have
b?en allowed to dry before being sown often
lake two years or more to vegetate, if sown in
pots and placed in a cool house, but, if seeds
that have been sown, say in March of one year,
.-.nd have not germinated, are plunged out of
doors in October and left quite unprotected
until February of the following year, and are
then placed in a temperature of 60", germination
will often take place at once. I have some
recollection of seeing an article to the effect that
seeds taken out on a Polar expedition and
brought back after 2-i or 3 years' absence germi-
nated well. At any rate, in the "Voyage of
4he Discovery," by Captain Scott, R.N., a
''escription is given of the growing of Musta'-d
and Cress in the ship after a winter had been
spent in the ice. It would be interesting to
know how those seeds were packed, as they
must have been subjected to great extremes of

heat and cold. A few years ago the result of
some interesting experiments on the vitality of
seeds after being subjected to great heat, both
dry and moist, made by Sir Daniel (then Dr.)
Morris, were published in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, and quite recently the result of ex-
periments with seeds subjected to intense cold
have been published. The results of these
experiments should go far to prove that extremes
of heat and cold, whether dry or moist, to
properly ripened seeds are not of such moment
as is often supposed. W. D.

Your Trinidad correspondent (see Colonial Note

on page 164) seems to be greatly annoyed with my
letter in your issue for January 20 last, charac-
terising it as being " one of the most unsatisfac-
tory pieces of evidence which it has ever been
my (his) lot to discuss," suggesting, I suppose,
that no reliance can be placed upon it, although,
strangely enough, your correspondent immedi-
ately goes on to say that there is nothing im-
probable in seeds growing on a single occasion.
Well, if so, "what has been shall be again."
However, I have no personal experience of seeds
in the tropics, and merely gave the facts as
stated. In the Gardeners' Chronicle of the pre-
vious week there was a long and full statement
from Mr. Watson, giving interesting accounts of
the behaviour of seeds sent to the tropics in
paper packets ; but although the evidence there
adduced coincided with mine to which Mr. Hart
takes exception in such strong terms, he,
strangely enough, ignores it ! Can it be that he
hesitates to cross pens with Mr. Watson and is
content to fall foul of poor little me? This re-
calls the advice said to have been given by an
old lawyer to his junior : " If you have no case,
abuse plaintiff's attorney." The quoted \\'ords
at the end of Mr. Hart's second sentence have
no connection with the subject, but, read in con-
junction with the conclusion of my letter, at
least show bad taste. A. C. Bartleit.

Birds and Peas (see p. 173). — I have fre-
quently lost two-thirds of the crop of early varieties
by the persistent attacks of hawfinches. The jay,
however, is certainly more destructive, doing
almost incredible damage, and unless checked a
large crop would be ruined in a few days. As
with the liawfinch so with the jay ; they bring the
young birds with them, and I have seen several
families of both amounting to dozens at once; but
fortunately the attack only lasts three weeks — the
time that the youngsters cannot feed themselves.
After that time the birds leave the Peas alone, al-
though odd ones may visit them through the season.
Mr. Brookshank's remarks about migration can
only refer to them being partial migrants, as they are
resident here all the year round, more common
south than north, but increasing with protection
in many counties. They have also a wide geo-
graphical range over Europe to Siberia, and
Japan, and India, with only slight diflerence in
size and a few markings of plumage, compara-
tively like the English goldfinch and the Russian.
The call notes and song of the hawfinch are very
insignificant, as most naturalists describe both as
little better than a chatter, and such is my experi-
ence with it both as a cage bird and in the wild state:
it is regarded as one of the most mute of British
birds. G. Abbey, Jan., Fanhams Hall Gardens,
Ware, Herts.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

M.4RCH 20. — On Tuesday last the Hall in Vin-
cent Square was again conveniently filled with
exhibits, on the occasion of the usual fortnightly
meeting of the Committees. The subjects shown
included a considerable number that were domi-
nant features at the preceding meeting, and
the general effect of the show therefore was not
materially different. Forced shrubs were again
shown plentifully, and were very rich in floral
effect. Pot-grown Clematis, flowers of Tree Car-
nations and Zonal Pelargoniums, also a great
variety of hardy plants were among the ex-
hibits. But Messrs. Rivers' collection of
Oranges, and Messrs. Low's Acacias were not
seen at the earlier meeting, nor were Messrs.
Veitch's greenhouse Rhododendrons quite so
fragrant, or Narcissus flowers so numerous.
This was the first occasion on which the N.-\K-
crssfs CuMMiTiElo have ir.et this season, and

they failed to find a new variety exhibited that
was worth an Award of Merit.

The Orchid CoMMirrEE found scarcely so
many plants and flowers as there were at the
last meeting, but their awards included one
First Class Certificate and three Awards -if
Merit.

The Floral Comittee recommended three
Awards of Merit, two for Roses, and one for a
new Tree Carnation named Britannia.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee had
not many novelties to consider, but a good col-
lection of well-preserved Apples was staged
by the King's Acre Nursery Co., Hereford.

At the afternoon meeting upwards of sixty
Fellows were elected, and Professor Geo. Hens-
low gave a lecture on " Parasites and Sapro-
phytes among the Flowering Plants," which
was illustrated with lantern slides.

Considerable interest was excited by Mr. C.
C. Hurst's discourse before the Scientific Com-
mittee on " Mendelism."

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. C. T. Druery, Geo. Nicholson, R. Wil-
son Ker, T. W. Turner, Jno. Green, C. J. Salter,
C. R. Fielder, H. J. Cutbush, J. F. McLeod,
Jno. Jennings, W. Howe, W. P. Thomson,
Chas. Jeffries, Chas. Dixon, Jas. Douglas,
George Gordon, Chas. E. Shea, W. Cuthbertson,
Chas. E. Pearson, W. J. James, C. Blick, and
R. Hooper Pearson.

Haemanthus mirabilis grandiflorus was shown
by Messrs. Linden et Cie, Brussels, and al-
though but one small plant was sent, it was
sufficient to show that the flower segments were
broader than those of the type of which a sup-
plementary illustration was published in these
pages, May 25, 1901. Messrs. Linden's hybrids
are among the very best plants of this genus.
From the King's Acre Nursery Company,
Hereford, was shown a new Clematis of the
'• patens " section, with very large, pale mauve-
coloured flowers, and named King's Acre Fairy.
It was not thought to be sufficiently distinct to
be given an Award ; but the variety is evidently
one that forces well, and the flowers are of very
attractive colour.

Messrs. Thos. Cripps & Son, Tunbridge
Wells, exhibited a collection of Japanese Acers,
which was very attractive, for it included numer-
ous varieties that had just developed their first
leaves.

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate Nur-
series, London, were awarded a Silver Gilt Flora
Medal for a brilliantly-gay group of forced
flowering shrubs. Well up above the level of
the dwarfer plants were standard specimens of
Wistaria sinensis, Pyrus atrosanguineus, Prunus
triloba. Azalea DavieSii, with sme6t-smelling
white flowers, and Magnolia Soulangeana. Be-
low these the Mollis Azaleas, including such
richly-coloured varieties as Anthony Koster, J.
C. van Tol (red), and numerous others presented
quite a thicket of flowers. There were also good
plants of Spiraea Thunbergi and Cytisus pur-
pureus flowering abundantly. Som,e tall plants
of Palms and Lilac at the back helped to in-
crease the effect of the exhibit.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, Ilighgate, Lon-
don, and Barnet, Herts., who showed at the last
meeting an extremely large collection of forced
shrubs in flower, contributed a smaller collec-
tion on this occasion, the double and single
" Ghent " Azaleas and a fine new hardy Rhodo-
dendron aureum being all we noticed that were
not represented in the more exhaustive exhibit.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Cutbush also showed Alpine plants
and other hardy flowers, including a splendid
batch of Iris Susiana and baskets of Hoses Mrs.
F. W. Flight and Mrs. William H. Cutbush.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, Surrey, staged a large collection of
forced shrubs and other plants. These showy
species — Azaleas, Laburnums, Magnolias, Spiraeas,
Clematis — and many similar subjec.ts, brightened
the west end of the hall. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Mr. H. B May, Upper Edmonton, London,
N., showed some nice plants of Polyantha Roses.
Madame Levavasseur was included, and a free-
flowering white variety named Schneewittchen.
The remainder of the group was composed of
Clematis in pots, relieved by a groundwork of
choice Ferns and a batch of Pelargonium " Clo-
rinda." (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park.
Eniield, showed vases Of General T^''-Iue:^iinot,

190

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1906.

La France, Mrs. W. J. Grant, Capt. Hayward,
Mrs, J. Laing. and otlier first-class Roses. These,
together with some well-grown Carnations and
Cyclamen, completed an exhibit of considerable
beauty. In another part of the building Messrs.
Low staged a batch of Acacias, some being quite
large specimens. They were evenly-balanced in
growth, and were carrying a good crop of flowers.
Three large plants of longifolia magnifica deserve
mention; the other species were A. armata. A.
Drummondi, A. cordata, and A. lineata. (Silver-
gilt Banksian Medal.)

Roses were also staged by Messrs. Frank Cant
& Co., Rose Nurseries, Colchester. They had a
number of charming buds of the bronze-coloured
Lady Roberts in the centre of the display, others
of Mad. Jean Dupuy, some perfect specimens of
the rich Papa Gontier (of true rose colour), Peace
(cream yellow), Frau Peter Lambert, &c.

Messrs. William Paul & Son, Waltham Cross,
Herts, put up a group of white and yellow Bank-
sian Roses. (Silver h'lora Medal.)

Messrs. Gilbert & Son, Dyke, Bourno, Lincoln-
shire, showed Anemone Pulsatilla and A. fulgens
in the usual first-class style one is accustomed to
see from Dyke. Some seedling forms of A. fulgens
were included. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

The Cape Government, in view of the forth-
coming Colonial E.xhibition, staged a number of
branches of tlie well-known Silver Leaf Tree
(Leucodendron argenteum). Leaves of this plant
are largely used for ornamental purposes, book-
markers, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.) An exhibit
of living succulent plants and Heaths from this
Colony, and another of paintings of indigenous
flowers of Cape Colony, also received awards of
medals.

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, presented a mixed group of flower-
ing subjects. They had a number of improved
forms of Clivia (Imantophyllum) ; a batch of the
pretty Crowea angustifolia, the plants being
almost hidden by their flowers ; the showy Rhodo-
dendron Veitchii and others of this type ; Strep-
tosolen Jamesoni ; Eupatorium petiolare, and two
or three plants of Kalanchoe Dyeri. The last-
named species has large corymbs of long tubular
white flowers, but the habit is stra.ggling, and it
v/ould only be effective when used with a setting
of other plants beneath. (Silver Banksian Medal.)
Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
showed inflorescences of their strain of stellata
Cinerarias, bunches of Zonal Pelargoniums, and
their new flaked Carnation "Duchess of Marl-
borough." Among the newer varieties of Pelar-
goniums is Mentmore. This has very large flowers
almost three inches in diameter. The colour is
rosy-cerise. Frogmore has a bright scarlet mark-
ing, probably guiding-lines for insects, on a magenta
ground. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Jarman &Co., Chard, Somerset, showed
a type of stellate Cinerarias, in which the petals
were almost revolute. They were labelled " Cactus
stellatea Cinerarias."

Lord Aldenham, Elstree (gr. Mr. E. Beckett),
e.xhibited a large batch of Thyrsacanthus rutilans.
The long pendulous racemes of this old stove-
plant were well developed, and the flowers,
moreover, were very deeply coloured. Adjoining
were sprays of many species of Willow, some in
flower, and others to show the varied colours seen
in the bark of the different varieties. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Alpine plants were shown by many growers, one
of the best arranged collections being staged by an
amateur, E. A. Hambro, Esq., Hayes Place,
Hayes, Kent. The plants showed excellence in
culture, a pan of Daphne Blagayana being one of
the best examples we remember having seen of
this rock-garden plant. The usual subjects were
included— Primulas, Ericas, Saxifragas, Scillas,
Primroses, &c., and a setting of taller subjects
at the background of such things as Cytisus
purpureus incarnatus, Magnolia stellata Halleana,
Daffodils in pots, &c., completed a first-class
display.

Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Nurseries,
Colchester, showed many good things among Alpine
and other hardy flowers.

Mr. G. Reuthe, Keston, Kent, had, in addition
to a display of alpines, a number of infloresences
of hardy Rhododendrons — R. Falconeri, R.
arboreum. &-c. R. a. cinnamomeum has pleasing
flowers mottled and suffused with pink on a pale
ground. Mr. Reuthe had also a display of early
flowering varieties of Narcissi. (Silver I^anksian
Medal.)

Mr. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnbam, Surrey,

displayed Carnations of first-class quality, also a
white Stock named AU-the-Year Round.

Messrs. Geo. Boyes&Co., Aylestone Nurseries,
Leicester, showed Carnations, including some seed-
ling varieties, one of which, named Dr. W, G.
Grace, has very fragrant flowers but is not of the
best form.

Mr. H. Elliott, Hassock Nurseries, Hassocks,
Sussex, brought several seedling Carnations, but
none was of exceptional merit.

Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., Worcester,
showed a batch of a lavender-coloured variety of
Hepatica angulosa, labelled H. A. lilacina grandi-
flora. The variety is very floriferous and pleasing
in colour.

Messrs. T. S. Ware, Ltd., Feltham, Middlesex,
filled one of the centre tables with Carnations,
Alpines and Daffodils. Some good things were
seen among the Alpine plants ; we may mention
Iris fimbriata, Sarracenia flava nicely in flower,
Trillium sessile, Tropceolura tricolor, Eccremo-
carpus scaber, &c. We also noticed a good batch
of Narcissus Queen of Spain among the Daffodils.
(Bronze Flora Medal.)

Messrs. John Peed & Sons, West Norwood,
London, staged Alpine plants, a batch of Nar-
cissus, and some well grown pot Freesias.

Small exhibits of Alpine plants were also staged
by Messrs. J. Cheal & Son, Crawley ; Mr. H. C.
Pulham, Elsenham, Essex ; Mr. A. R. Upton,
Millmead, Guildford ; and Sir Edward Loder,
Bart, Leonardslee, Horsham, Sussex (gr. Mr. W.
A. Cook).

AWARDS OF MERIT.

Carnation Britannia. — A bright red, self-
coloured Tree Carnation of large size, good
petals, with very little fimbriation, but only
faintly perfumed. The stems are erect, and the
calyces remain unsplit. From the plants ex-
hibited it was evident the variety is of first-rate
growing habit. From Mr. A. Smith, Enfield
Highway.

Polyantha Rose "Princess Ena." — This is a
charming new variety of the dwarf-growing Poly-
antha section, being a sport from the crimson-
flowered variety Mad. Levavasseur. The plant
shown had growths of about 15 inches in height,
and each growth bore a strong spray of rich rose-
pink coloured flowers, with small, white centres,
and pale yellow stamens. The individual
flowers are about 2 inches across. The plant
would have a very good effect in a vase. From
Mr. H. B. May.

Rose, Climbing, Frau Karl Druschki. — Those
who have grown the charming new Rose, Frau
Druschki, of which an illustration was published
in these pages on Dec. 6, 190:2, p. 42, will be
likely to appreciate a climbing form of the
variety, in which the flowers appear to be iden-
tical with those of the type. They are almost,
but not perfectly, white, and on the j^lant ex-
hibited they were produced very freely and well,
although it is still only March. Shown by
Messrs. W. Laurenson & Son, Egglescliffe,
Yarm-on-Tecs.

Narcissus Committee.

Present: H. B. May, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. W. Poupart, Jno. Pope, E. A. Bowles,
G. Reuthe, Jean de Graaffe, A. M. Wilson, C.
T. Digby, P. K. Barr, J. T. Bennett-Poe, W. F.
M. Copeland, A. R. Cloodwin, W. A. Milner,
R. W. Wallace, W. T. Ware, A. Kingsmill, Jas.
Walker, Robt. .Sydenham, W. B. Young, P. D.
Williams, Rev. S. Eugene Bourne, Rev. G. H.
Engleheart, Joseph Jacob, Rev. Canon Fowler,
and C. H. Curtis.

Messrs. Baer & Sons, 11, 12, 13, King Street,
Covent Garden, had Daffodils and hardy flowers.
The former embraced many of the best of the
early-flowering varieties. We noticed the fine
Ajax, King Alfred, with splendid trumpet of deep
yellow colour ; Isolde, a substantial flower with
sulphur-yellow trumpet, surrounded by a cream
perianth, Peter Barr, the incomparable white
Ajax, Seraph, a fine bold flower, the pale yellow
of the big trumpet merging into the white of the
perianth. King Alfonso, Victoria, Henri de Vil-
inorin, etc. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Sir JossLYN Gore-Booth, Bart., Lissadell,
Sligo, Ireland, staged a collection of standard
and popular varieties. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. Kendall, Newton Appleford, near Ottery
St. Mary, Devon, showed some remarkably fine
flowers of Narcissus Sir Francis Drake. The
specimens were finely coloured and .were ex-
ceptionally tall.

Mr. Chas. Dawson, Rosemorran, Gulval, Pen-
zance, staged a couple of rows of vases of Daffo-
dils. They were quite the best of these flowers
in the show, and many were varieties not in
commerce. Chiquita is a well-shaped flower,
with a soft yellow trumpet surrounded by a
white corolla ; Gannett is a fine Lecdsi, the
chalice being beautifully tipped wjth bright
orange ; Cachalot has an almost straight trum-
pet at right angles to the corolla ; Goldseeker is
intensely yellov/ ; Marshlight is a Beautiful
Leedsi, with a grand chalice ; Barkal possesses
a very open, short, crenated trumpet; Cyclet
and His Excellency are but a few of the many
fine sorts shown by Mr. D.awson. (Silver Gilt
Banksian Medal.)

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the chair),
and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien ^hon. sec), Harry J.
Veitch, H. Little, W. Boxall, W. H. Young,
H. A. Tracy, H. G. Alexander, F. J. Thorne,
H. J. Chapman, J. Coleman, J. W. Potter,
A. A. McBean, J. W. Odell, H. G. Morris,
T. W. Bond, W. H. White, A. Dye, H. T. Pitt,
R. G. Thwaites, W. Cobb, G. F. Moore, F. M.
Ogilvie, F. Wellesley, W. A. Bilney, N. C.
Cookson, De B. Crawshay, H. Ballantine, F.
Sander, and A. A. Peeters (visitor).

The largest group, which secured a Silver Gilt
Flora Medal, was staged by Baron Sir H.
Schroeder, The Dell, F.ghani (gr. Mr. Ballan-
tine). The bulk of the group was of fine Den-
drobiums, which included all the best forms of
D. nobile, D. splendidissimum, and other hy-
brids. Of fine varieties noted were D. superbum
Burkei, good D. Wardianum, Findlayanum,
Brymerianum, &c. At one end was a pretty
arrangement of cut spikes of the handsome
Calanthe Baron Schroeder, in the centre a selec-
tion of good Cypripediunis, includmg C. Law.
renceanum Hyeanum, t". Mastersianum, C.
Olivia, &c. Other rare plants noted were the
pretty Odontoglossum i^eeanum, the hand-
somely blotched O. Pescatorei Shroederianum,
and O. P. Veitchianum, which are well-known
plants of many years' standing, and, strangely
enough, nothing yet has appeared comparable
with them out of the many large importations.
Bright Masdevallias were arranged along the
group, and Eulophiella Elizabethae and other
rare species were included. '

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Ileaton, Brad-
ford, were awarded a Silver Gilt Flora Medal
for a fine group principally of hyb.ids. Among
the Odontoglossums were O. Elaine (cirrosum
X Ilarryanum), a pretty novelty with the colours
of O. crispo-Harryanum, but more of the form
of O. cirrosum, and with its apiculate segments.
Others were forms of O. excellens, O. loochris-
tyense, O. Rolfefe, O. Hallio-crispum, and a few
good O. crispum. At one end was the pure
white Brasso-Cattleya Queen Alexandra and a
few others of its class. Among the Cattleyas
were the white C. Mendeli Duchess of Y'ork and
other rare forms, and others noted were Lselio-
Cattleya X illustris (Latona X aurea), the very
dark L.-C Dominiana, L.-C. Wellsiana, L.-C.
X Siinray var. superba, of a rich orange colour
with crimson lip, and other showy hybrids.

Messrs. James Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham,
were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an effec.
tive group, in which the best plants were Cat-
tleya calummata magnifica, a large blush-white
flower finely marked with purple : Odontoglos-
sum Adrianae punctatum, pale yellow densely
spotted with red-brown ; Dendrobium nobile
Perfection, D. n. Fisheri, and other fine D.
nobile; D. Apollo album, D Clio, &c.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, secured
a Silver Banksian Medal for a good group, in
which were Zygopetalum Gottianum magnifi-
cum, with blackish purple sepals and remark-
able lip, violet at the base, shading to magent!\-
rose ; Cypripedium villosum annamense, very
remarkable in colour ; C. villosum Golden King,
a large yellow-tinted flower ; C. Persephone
(Lathamianum x exul) ; some twenty distinct
varieties of C. insigne ; Schomlpurgkia undulata,
Cymbidium grandiflorum, the curious little
Notylia multiflora, and other species.

Messrs. Hugh Low and Co., Enfield, obtained
a Silver Banksian Medal for a nice group, in
which the Dendrobiums were well displayed.
Among the rarer were the pure white Dendro-
bium Wardianum ochrolenucum, the fine white
Diacrium bicornutum, Angra^cum citratum,
Cypripedium aureum Hyeanum, C. Winifred

March 24, 1906.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

191

HoUington, C. Winnianum, C. microcheilum ;
Cattleya Triana: cosrulea, the white C. T. Mrs.
Edward Sonaheim, &c.

Major G. L. Holford, C.I.E., C.V.O., Tet-
bury (gr. Mr. Alexander), showed a finely-
coloured Cattleya Cecilia (Trianae x Law-
renceana) and the noble white Odontoglossum
crispum lolanthe. It was a finely-grown plant,
heivily flowered, and Mr. Alexander, his Orchid
grower, was voted a Cultural Commendation.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Vv'ylam
(gr. Mr. II. J. Chapman), showed Dendrobiuni
Ainsworthii, Oakwood variety, fine in form and
of the colour of D. nobile robilius; Odonto-
glossum ardentissimum, Cookson's variety, a
broad-petalled white variety, heavily marke'd
with purple ; the rare O. excellens Prince of
Orange, and O. crispum Princess Maud, a good
white flower prettily spotted with light brown.

J. S. Moss, Esq., Wintershill, showed Odonto.
glossum amaenum (Pescatorei x sceptruml,
pale yellow spotted with brown. Sir Trevor
Eawrence, Bart., Burford, sent the handsome
yellow Dendrobium Melpomene inversum and a
large branched spike of Phalaenopsis Aphrodite
with about 80 flowers and buds, and for which
Mr. W. 11. White, his grower, was accorded a
Cultural Commendation.

Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park, Rei-
gate (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound), sent Spathoglottis
aurea, Gatton Park variety, a fine form raised at
Gatton with large, orange-culoured flowers,
from which the red on the lip of the type has
been eliminated.

Francis WELLESL-sy, Esq., Westfield (gr. Mr.
Hopkins), sent a pretty hybrid between Cattleya
Mossias and C. Hardyana, with rosy-lilac sepals
and petals tinged with yellow and rich purple
lip ; Cypripedium niveum Wellesleyanum, much
bioader than the ordinary form; and C. vil-
losum "The Premier." (See Awards.)

F. A. Bevan, Esq., Trent Park, New Barnet
(gr. Mr. Parr), sent Odontoglossum elegails,
Trent Park variety.

F. Mentehh Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery,
Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), showed Dendro-
bium Thwaitesiae, Veitch's variety, for which
Messrs. Veitrli obtained a First Class Ceitifi-
cate on April 19, 1904, and which is still the
finest rich yellow hybrid Dendrobium ; also a
fine species of Eriopsis rutidobulbon.

R. Briggs-Bury, Esq., Bank House, Accring-
ton (gr. Mr. Wilkinson), sent Cypripedium Vic-
tor Cavendish, a large flower of a greenish tint,
finely spotted, and with white tip to the dorsal
s?pal.

O. O. WuiGi.EV, Esq., Bridge House, Bury,
Lancashire, showed the rare white Miltonia
Warscewiczii alba and Odontoglossum Adrianas
Marian Bruce, a good well-marked flower.

M. Draps-Dom, Laeken, Brussels, sent two
spctted forms of Odontoglossum crispum, a
good O. Adrianae, Cypripedium Leeanum
aureum, C. nitens aureum, C. nitens Tarron,
and other good hybrids.

M. A A. I'EETERS, Brussels, sent the rare
Cypripedium aureum " Pomone."

Messrs. Li.NDEN & Co., Brussels, showed
Odontoglossum crispum Lucien Linden, a home-
raised seedling with large, broad-petalled flower
serrated at the edges, white, densely blotched
with rose purple ; Cochlioda vulcanica. Lin-
den's variety, a large bright magenta-rose
flower ; Oncidium Phalaenopsis Lindeni ; Cypri-
pedium pra^stans, and a yellow tinted variety of
It named aurosum.

G. F. Bird, Esq., Manor House, West Wick-
ham (gr. Mr. H. Redden), sent Odontoglossum
triumphans. Bird's variety, a fine, large flower.

Captain R. P. Purefoy, R.N., Shalstone
Manor, Buckingham (gr. Mr. Cordery), sent
Dendrobium Dalhousieanum.

EusT.icE F. Clark, Esq., Teignmouth, sent
three hybrid Cypripediums.

J. Bradshaw, Esq., Southgate, sent Lycaste
.Skinneri armeniaca, and another of the same
class, named Princess Ida ; the white L. S. Lady
Gladys, and the finely-coloured L. S. Vulcan.

AWARDS.

First-Class Certificate.

Odontoglossum Lamhiaiiianmn roscum (Rolfeae
ardentissimum X crispum Madame Falcke). —
A fine advance on the previously shown varie-
ties. Exhibited by the raiser, M. A. A. Peeters,
' ■ ---f-ls. A grand broad-petalled flower of a

pale rose tint, heavily blotched with rose pur-
ple, the tips of the segments being unspotted.

Award of Merit.

Cypripedium villosum The Premier, from
Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
{gr. Mr. Hopkins). — A very massive form of
much thicker substance than other villosums.
The large dorsal sepal had a broad chocolate-
purple band from the base, the sides of wh'ich
are emerald green, the upper part white.

Lalio-Catlkya Sunray superba (L. cinna-
barina X C. superba). — A showy orange-coloured
flower with crimson front to the lip. There
were several flowers on a spike and they were
well displayed by Messrs. Charlesworth & Co.

Cypripedium aureum Hyeanum, from F. Men-
TEiTH Ogilvie, Esq., Oxford (gr. Mr. Balm-
forth).—A large, green-tinted flower, with a
brownish band on the dorsal sepal, the upper
half of which is white.

Diploma Awards.

Various exhibitors showed plants of Lycastes.

A 2>id Diploma was awarded to Lycaste
Skinneri Beauty, from J. Bradshaw, Esq. — A
large and finely-formed, blush-white flower,
with rosy crimson markings on the lip.

Pruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Geo. Bunyard, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. Jos. Cheal, W. Bates, S. Mortimer, Alex.
Dean, Geo. Keif, H. Parr, A. R. Allan, Ed.
Beckett, Jos. Davis, Jno. Lyne, F. Q. Lane, G.
Reynolds, C. F'oster, Owen'Thomas, H Somers
Rivers, and A. H. Pearson.

The Committee had brought to their notice a
new kind of fruit preserving bottle, in which the
usual tin cap was replaced by a glass plate, and
this was screwed tightly by an outer lid, conse-
quently the fruit was always in contact with
glass. The Committee awarded the invention an
Award of Merit. It was shown by the Flint
Glass Bottle Company, Aldersgate Street,
London, E.C.

A beautiful display of Apples was shown by
the King's Acre Nursery Company, Hereford.
They staged over 60 dishes, all, or almost all, in
splendid condition and coloured to a high de-
gree. The latest keeping varieties appeared at
their best, grand dishes of Annie Elizabeth,
Tyler's Kernel, Newton Wonder, Lane's Prince
Albert, Dumelow's Seedling, Sandringham, Bar-
nack Beauty, etc., being seen. (Silver Gilt
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Thos. Rivers cS: Son, Sawbridgeworth,
Herts, exhibited a collection of home-grown
Oranges (see p. 187). They displayed both trees
and fruits in many varieties and types. The
Shaddock and the Lemon were also included.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

A cultural commendation was awarded Mr.
W. A. Cook (gr. to Sir Ed. Loder, Bart.,
Leonardslee, Horsham, Sussex) for half-a-dozen
well-grown heads of Carter's Spring White
Broccoli.

Lecture on Mendel's Theory of Inheritance.

In the afternoon, Mr. C. C. Hurst delivered
a lecture on this subject before the members of
the Scientific Committee and others. The meet-
ing took place in the Council room, which was
more than half filled with fellows interested in
this subject. We refer our readers to Mr.
Hurst's article on p. 187. Considerable discus-
sion followed Mr. Hurst's discourse.

HORTICULTUKAL CLUB.

Hybrid Orchids.
March 20. — Fresh from the interesting meet-
ing of the Scientific Committee held in the after-
noon, the members of the Horticultural Club
and a number of guests spent a very pleas;.. .i
and instructive evening at the Hotel Windsor.
The subject for discussion was that of " Hybrid
Orchids," and Mr. H. J. Chapman, Orchid
glower to N. C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood,
Wylam-on-Tyne, showed those assembled such
a series of lantern slides illustrative of seedling
and other Orchids, as we have nevtr previously
seen. There were something like 150 slides, and
these were not merely reproductions of
good photographs in which the effects of light
and shade were unusually finq, but the pictures
were all coloured in the sh,a.des natural to the

flowers. Everyone present was greatly sur-
prised at the excellent effect Mr. Chapman ob-
tained, for each photograph had been coloured
by himself and by the use of aniline dyes in
water. His system was first to show the two
parents, and then the resulting hybrids, which
occasionally were all upon one plate, and were
followed by illustrations of the secondary hy-
brids. Alter exhibiting several species of
Odontoglossum and Selenipedium, a slide ap-
peared, showing the wonderful Odontioda which
resulted from crossing Odontoglossum Pesca-
torei with Cochlioda Notzliana, and these were
also shown on the sheet. Phaius simulans and
P. Sanderiana, with their hybrid x Norman,
were much admired, and P. Chapmani and P.
c. superba were wonderfully good. A round of
applause greeted the appearance of Cypripedium
Fainieanuiii, which, with. C. Spicerianum, pro-
duced X Niobe, having for a secondary hybrid
X Norma, which was Irom C. Spicerianum and
C. X Niobe. C. Fairrieanum, when crossed
with C. callosum, produced X Juno, which is
certainly one of the best of the hybrids.
Passing to Cattleyas, the beautiful Lslio-
Cattleya x Dons, the offspring of Cattleya
Trianae, crossed with Lselia harpophylla,
was shown, and following this were all
the best varieties of Dendrobium nobile. A
splendid plant of D. Falconeri, suspended in a
basket and carrying an unusually large number
of flowers all coloured quite naturally, was much
admired, the picture being perfect in respect to
its light and snade effects. D. thrysiflorum was
almost as good. On presenting an excellent por-
trait of C. GodefroyiE leucochilum, Mr. Chap-
man, who had something interesting to say o'.
each picture, stated his opinion that this plant
is a natural hybrid between C. niveum and C.
bellatulum, although the accuracy of this view
has been challenged of late. C. Chamberlaini-
anum having given an opportunity for a
humorous allusion, Mr. Chapman subsequently
presented Odontoglossum crispum " Harold,"
one of the best florist's varieties of O. crispum,
for, as was said, the flowers are almost " as
round as a penny," and the colours are charm-
ing. Its petals are so imbricate that, in the
Orchid grower's language, they offer a strong
contrast to those through which one could
"shoot sparrows." This portrait of "Harold"
is considered by Mr. Chapman to be his best,
but the succeeding one, O. crispum Cookson^,
was, in our opinion, quite as good. This last-
named variety was shown as a spike of blooms,
and in several stages as the flowers were open-
ing in Mr. Cookson's Orchid house.

We have only referred to some of the photo-
graphs, but, in addition, there were several that
illustrated the interior of the Orchid houses at
Oakfield in a most appreciable manner.

As was natural, after Mr. Hurst's explanation
of the Mendel theory earlier m the day, many
of those present, as well as Mr. Chapman him-
self, referred to the question during the discus-
sion which took place on the hybrid Orchids.
We can only refer to this discussion in verj^
brief terms. Mr. N. C. Cookson took occasion
to remark that he had found it to be impossible
to cross such larye and small flowers as Sophro-
nitis grandiflora and Brassavola Digbyana with
each other, unless the bigger flower was made
the pollen parent, and he had come to the con-
clusion that the smaller grains of pollen from
the smaller flower were not capable of produc-
ing tubes sufficiently long to reach the ovule
of the larger flower, and were therefore
ineffective. Mr. W. Watson (Kew) subse-
quently said that the late Mr. Mangles
had told him of similar experience in
the crossing of Rhododendrons, and Mr. R. A.
Rolfe (Herbarium, Kew), said that in Messrs.
Charlesworth's Nursery at Bradford he had
been shown seed vessels in which the seeds at
the upper part of the vessel alone were fertilised
which also seemed to show that the tubes were
only able, even in those cases, to just enter
the ovule and fertilise the seeds immediately at
the top. Another gentleman (Mr. Thwaites)
said that he had been able to raise seedlings
from Sophronitis and Brassavola, and, as we
understood him to say, he had used the Sophro.
nitis as the pollen parent. These plants liave
not yet flowered. Further contributions to the
discussion were made by Mr. Harry J. V^itch,
Mr. William Marshall, Mr. Bunyard, "jun. (who
begged members to further consider the theory
advanced by Mendel), Mr. H. Little, and others.

192

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 24, 1206.

Sir John T. D. Llewelyn piesided, and thfere
were forty-five present, including a large number
of guests from the R.H.S. Orchid C^~.r:;ittce.
Mr. Veitch described 'the evening as one of the
best and most instructive he had spent in .the
club.

EOYAL BOTANIC.

March 21. — The first of this Society's shows
for the present season was held on the above data
in their gardens at Regent's Park. Unfortunately
the weather during the earlier part of the pro-
ceedings was wintry in the extreme. The show
itself was very bright, large masses of forced
flowering trees and shtubs, Roses, Camellias,
Carnations, Daffodils, and other showy subjects
contributing to a pleasing display. Ihe great
conservatory was gay with many winter flower-
ing plants arranged on the stagings and about
the beds, while the permanent occupants of the
beds and borders seem to improve each year
under the care of the present superintendent,
Mr. E. F. Hawes. There is a general improve-
ment in the condition of the gardens and
grounds.

Messrs. R. and G. Cuthbert, Soutiigate,
Middlesex, filled the greater portion of one side
of the long corridor with a display of forced
flowering shrubs. (Large gold medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Cuibush and Son, Highgate,
London, N., staged a grand display of forced
flowering shrubs in the large conservatory.
Messrs. Cutbush also had a numerous collec-
tion of Alpine plants. These were airanged in
a natural manner, and" embraced many of the
best of these flowers now in season. (Gold
medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Paul and Son, Wallham Cross,
Herts, had a group of pot plants of Camellias in
flower, and a number of Banksian Roses, both
yellow and white varieties. The Camellias were
greatly admired. The group was fairly repre-
sentative, no fewer than forty-five distinct vane-
ties being shown— Beauty of Waltham, soft
blush-pink, and fine of form ; Cup of Beauty,
white, with just a splash of red; Jose Marques
Loureiro, white; Duchess of Teck, rosy-pink,
and comparatively new ; Donckelaarii, one cf
the oldest and finest semi-double flowers, were
some of the best shown. (Large silver gilt
medal.)

Messrs. Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Feltham, Mid.
dlesex, staged a large number of Alpine and
hardy plants in flower, and a number of early
•varieties of Daffodils. Several vases of Carna-
tions were also prominent. A batch of Cory-
■dalis bulbosa was nicely flowering. (Silver gilt
medal.)

Mr. John May, Gordon Nursery, Twicken-
ham, staged a grand collection of Cyclamen, the
flowers, which were in piofusion, bemg clean
and of many beautiful tints and shades of
colour. The plants were certainly well culti-
vated, and represented a desirable strain. The
variety Excelsior, of deep crim-son colour, re-
ceived a certificate of merit. (Large silvei: gilt
medal.)

Mr. A. S.MiTH, Enfield Highway, also received
a certificate of merit for Carnation Britannia.
(See p. 190.)

Messrs. Jarman and Co., Chard, Somerset,
displayed a type of Cineraria called Cactus stel-
lata cineraria. The petals are rolled back, giv-
ing the flowers a quilled appearance. The
selection of colours was good, and the strain was
granted a certificate of merit.

Mr. S. Morti.meR, Farnham, Surrey, had
some charming flowers of winter flowering Car.
nations, and a number of spikes of a new stock
named AU-the-Year-Round. (Silver gilt medal.)

Messrs. Bakr anu Sons, 11, Vl, 13, King
Street, Covent Garden, had a large display Of
Narcissus, also boxes and vases of Alpines and
hardy flowers and plants. Among the Narcissi
were several new varieties, and of these three
received the Society's certificate. These were
Kldorado, a large yellow Ajax ; Isolde, a fine
Ajax variety, with sulphur-yellow trumpet
and paler perianth ; and Alice Knights, also
of the Ajax type, with white or cream perianth
and tube ; awarded the distinction for its early
period of flowering. (Large silver gi'.t medal.)

Sir JossLYN GoRE-BooTH, Bart., Lissadell,
Sligo, had a nice stand of Irish-grown Daffodils.
The varieties were not rare or new introduc-
tions, but they embraced many of the older and
finer kinds of this spring flower. Thus there

were Madame de Graaff, Victoria (Ajax),Ori-
flamme, C. J. Backhouse, Empress (fine flovversj,
Empercr, Stella superba, etc., all in first-class
condition. (Silver medal.)

Mr. Robert Sydenham displayed a number
of pots of Daffodils, the plants being grown in
moss fibre without drainage.

The Royal Botanic Society exhibited a
number of economic plants, many in flower —
Piper nigrum, Black Pepper ; Eugenia jambos,
Rose Apple ; Saccharum ofiicinaium. Sugar
Cane; Cinnamomum cassia, Cassia Bark, etc.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

March 8, — There was only a small display of
plants at the meeting held on the above date.

Messrs. Cypher & Sons. Cheltenham, obtained
a Silver Medal for a nice collection of plants.

M. Ch. Vuylsteke, Loochristi, Gand, sent a
good lot of hybrid Odontoglossums. O. X Lau-
renceanum being the most efi'ective. (Vote of
thanks.)

Messrs. Cowan & Co., Gateacre, displayed a
nice group, and there were groups from Messrs.
Keeling & Sons and Mr. D. McLeod, all of
whom received votes of thanks.

The following awards were made : — First Class
Certificates were awarded to Odontoglossum x
Fowlerianum from Messrs. Sander & Sons, and
Oncidium Weltoni var. album from O. O. Wkig-
ley, Esq. Awards of Merit were awarded to
Dendrobium x Wiganae var. xanthochelum from
Messrs. A. J. Keeling & Sons, and D. nobile
var. Perfection from Messrs. J. Cypher & Sons.
P. ir. .

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

March 14. — A meeting of the executive com-
mittee was held at "Carr's," 264. Strand, on the
above date. A financial statement was produced
by the secretary showing a substantial balance in
hand. The schedule revision sub-committee were
given power to add a sum of £20 to the Prize
List, as several new classes are being added to the
schedule.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

*.,* Editor and Publisher. — Our Correspondents would
obviate delay in obtaining answers to tlieir communica-
tions, and save us much time and trouble, if they would
kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the ctlect
that all letters relating to financial matters and to
advertisements should be addressed to the Publisher ;
and that all communications intended for publication, or
referring to the Literary department, and all plants to be
named, should be directed to the Editor. The two
departments, Publishing and Editorial, are quite distinct,
and much unnecessary delay and confusion arise when
letters are misdirected.

AsTiLBE (Spiraea) Leaves Damaged : H. W. We
find no trace of disease on the leaves. Their
injury has been caused by scorching, either from
the sun's rays when the foliage was wet, or from
being placed too near the hot-v/ater pipes in the
plant house.

Book on Carpet Bedding ; Hoittis. We believe
Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Nurserymen, Swanley.
Kent, publish an inexpensive pamphlet on the
subject.

Books : G. C. 0. The Glossary of Botanic Terms
would be of no use for the purpose. You need
a book. You will do well to procure a copy of
the Dictionary of Gardening, by George Nicholson,
in five volumes, price ^4 2s., or Johnson's
Gardeners' Dictionary, price gs. 6d. Either may
be obtained from our publishing department.

Cucumbers Failing : E. T. The plants are
badly infested with eel worm, which shows
itself in the swollen nodules of the roots, hence
it is often called root knot disease. You should
not grow Cucumbers in the same structure again
until you have thoroughly cleansed it, using as
a wash carbolic acid mixed with water in the
proportion of eight parts of water to one of the
acid. Do not allow the old infested soil to be
placed near the potting loam ; it will be best to
treat it with gas lime or a weak solution of car-
bolic acid, in order to destroy the pests.

Dendrobium Devonianum : /. N. M . This
species should be cultivated in a basket or pot,
which can be suspended from the roof of a
warm house. Afford water freely until the new

' growths are completed, then graduallylesseh the
supply until water is withheld for the plant to
rest.

Douglas Fir Failing: Scots. The Douglas Fir
appears to have died from transplanting in a
careless manner, as the roots of those forwarded
possess little "fibre" or few fibrous roots. As
far as appearances go they seem to be plants
which ha\"e stood in the nursery for several
years without transplanting, and then to have
been carelessly lifted. There may be other
reasons for the high percentage of deaths, but
what they are it is impossible to say from the
samples alone. Were the roots exposed to sun
or wind for any length of time ?

Grape Appley Towers : M. This variety is a
good all-round Grape. The vine grows well
and the flowers act freely. The fruits possess
good flavour, and they keep well. Appley
Towers is a little less prolific than some of tlie
more popular Grapes, but it well deserves to be
cultivated.

Hippeastrum (Amaryllis) Bulbs: A. D. We
suspect the injury is caused by " mite." Mean-
while we will submit the bulbs to an examina-
tion, and reply in our next issue.

Insecticide and Peritonitis : X. The insecticide
is of a poisonous nature, but we do not think its
use in the manner described would cause
peritonitis.

Mushrooms: R. F. It is impossible to give a
decided answer without knowing the exact con-
ditions of cultivation, but it would appear that
the atmosphere in which the Mushrooms have
grown was deficient in moisture. The beds
have probably sufl^ered from the same cause.
Mushrooms are always tough if grown in such
conditions. The synngings mentioned may not
have been enough. In any case, toughness in
Mushrooms is usually the result of dryness, and
the best Mushrooms that are gathered from the
meadows are those grown at a time when the
atmosphere is well charged with moisture. We
would suggest that you procure soil from another
source, and obtain it moderately heavy. You
might mix a small quantity with the manure
during the course of fermentation. Employ a
slight covering of straw for the beds, or, better
still, cover them with brown paper; the mois-
ture rising from the soil will then collect in the
immediate vicinity of the young Mushrooms.

Names OF Plants : IV. W. i, Pyrus japonica, so
faraswecantellwithouttheflowers; 2, Cupressus
Lawsoniana ; 3, Abies Pinsapo ; 4, Cupressus
Lawsoniana var. erecta viridis ; 5, Cupressus.
which we cannot name without the cones; 6.
Skimmia japonica. — A. Y. L. Bletia patula
and Phaius grandifolius. — Lymmstcr. Maranta
, Makoyana. — Hortns. A poor specimen, much
shrivelled — probably Iris timbriata.

Peach Shoots: Cymrw. The somewhat soft
wood has been attacked by Botrytis cinerca. Re-
move the badly diseased shoots, and syringe
the tree thoroughly with a solution of sulphide
of potassium, using i ounce of sulphide in j
gallons of water.

Roses ; C. R. F. The stems have been attacked
by the Rose mildew Spharotheca /-aunosa, which
has been arrested in its external development,
and has consequently injured the shoots more
than if it had fruited. Remove all decayed
branches, and destroy any trace of mildew by
spraying with a solution of permanganate of
potassium at such a strength that the liquid is
of a pale rose colour.

ToMATOS : T. J. H. &• Chas. D. There is no
fungus disease present. We believe the injury
to be due to scorching.

Tulip Mould : 5. C. The plants are attacked by
a fungus Botrytis parasitica. Burn all the dis-
eased bulbs. Do not plant bulbs on the same
piece of ground, as the black lumps or sclerotia
in the soil will perpetual ^ the disease.

Violet : /. McG. Procure the variety Amiral
Avellan, which, being an improvement on
odorata rubra, has flowers of a reddish shade
of colour.

Communications Received.— Basil L. (Your letter has bcL-r.
forwarded)— S. W.— A. D. H.— E. H.— The Carpenters'
Company— L. G.— F. M.— J. F. D.— A. H.-B. D. J.— F.
Bennett (A very good specimen of a pot-grown Hyacinth ;
many thanks) — M. Hayata, Japan— S. W. Barnett— Dr.
Franceshi, Santa Barbara— F. J. C. — P. Murray Thomson
(Forwarded)-C. C. H.— H. S.-C. E.— Bella— W. S.—
D. W,— F. G. G.— R. L. C— Sussex— F. W. -J. H.— G. u.
M. E. M.S. A.— W. H. Pettrigrew-L. Gentil.

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March 31, 1900.]

THE GAliDENERS' CHRONICLE.

THE

#Hibcucrs'Cbrouick

No. 7,005.— SATURDAY, March 31, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Belgian horticulture, re-
cent losses in 201

Birds and sccd-Ijcds ,. 1:01
EooUs, notices of —
Chrysanthcme et

Dahlia 197

Culture of Vegetables

and l-"lowers ... 202
Exotic Forest and
Park Trees for Eu-
rope 197

Kew Bulletin 201

■Carnations, Tree ... 195
Chinese spirit, the manu-
facture of 194

Ccelogyne cristata, the

flowering of 204

Colonial Exhibition, the

204, 205
Country-in-town move-
ment, the 202

■Cross fertilisation of

flowers, the 204

Cyaniding machine, a

safety 203

■Dendrobium Wa r d i -
anum at Lynward,

Penarth 205

Flora of France 201

I'lower lovers' associa-
tion, a 202

Forestry, Sir H. Max-
well on 203

Gardeners, a strike of... 202
Hawfinches ... .. 204

llippeastrum, a hybrid 202
Irises, Oncocyclus ... 193

Iris verna , 204

Kerchove, Comtc do, the

late 20O

Kew Gardens in March 201

Kew notes 20;J

Lilium giganteum ... 201
Lissochilus Horsfallii... 200

Market Gardeners' Com-
pensation Act

Mistlelo and its iio-.ts ..

Natural selection among
plants

Obituary —
Barton, Thomas

Cairns, John

Clinging, George
Pollett, H. M

Orchid notes and glean-
ings-
James Cypher & Sons'

collection

Pleione Yunnanensis..

Orchids, a sale of

Primrose, an alMiormal

Prunus Padus, v\iili rose-
coloured flowers

Russian gardeners

Rust-diseases, t h ree-
spored

Scilla bifolia " Pinker-
ton "

Societies —
British Gardeners'

Association

Brussels Floral
Gloucestershire Rose

Linnean

National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Horticultural...
(Scientific Committee)

Seeds packed for the
tropics

Shrewsbury flower
show, the

Small Holdings

Solanum Commersoni...

Statham. Mr. A. L.,
presentation to

Tomato crop for igo6 ...

Warts on Vines

Week's Work, the 198,

ILLUSTRATIO.'^S.

Cairns, John, pcrtraii of the late

Carnation " ]3ritannia "

Edwards's Safety Cyaniding Machine

I'lower of Lissochilus Horsfallii

Graftin^i, crown or rind, and cleft

Lissochilus Horsfallii, from the gardens of the Right

Hon. Lord Rothschild. (Supplementary lllusHuiion)
Odontoglossum crispum Pittianum, recently sold for

1,150 guineas

Primrose, a monstrous Chinese

201
205

207
20G
207
207

ICC
19!)
19G
194

202
202

205

204

202
2(jr>
2O1;
20D

20c
205
205

202
20 1
2U2

201
2C4
200
199

20u
)1'5
20;J
201
199

197
194

ONCOCYCLUS IRISES AND

THEIR ALLIES.

T

I^^O a ver)' large luinibcr of those who
cultivate good hard)' plants compara-
tively few genera are so full of interest
as the Iris, and to those who cul-
tivate the Iris no section of it is more
fascinating than that popularly known as
" Cushion Iris," the Ojicocyclus Irises of the
botanist. In more ways than one are these
Palestine Oncocyclus Irises fascinating, for
in great measure they attract by the unique
beauty of their well-nigh indescribable forms,
^nd they further possess a deeper interest
for those would-be special cultivators of them
\vho never tire in their endeavours to cultivate
them better than formerly, and to solve,
if possible, the problem of how best to treat
them, so as to make them a permanent suc-
cess in British gardens. If this very desirable
stage in the cultivation of these plants should
•ever be reached, the gardeners of that time
will be more indebted, than possibly they will
then be aware of, to such indefatigable
workers in this p;u-ticular field of study as Sir
-Michael Foster, the late Rev. H. Ewbank,
Mr. Lynch, of tlie Cambridge Botanic Gar-

dens, and Mr. John Hoog, of Haarlem,
among others. Each and all of these have
worked earnestly in the endeavour to eluci-
date the difliculties attending the permanent
cultivation of these plants.

If we compare experiences to-day with
those of a score of years ago, we feel bound
to admit that progress has not been great,
so far as this relates to the making
of these Oncocyclus Irises ' more per-
manent plants in the garden. Whether
this is unattainable is a question that can
only be answered after further years of ex-
perience and expel iment. How far on the
road to this desired haven the raising of seed-
lings at home may bring us is an item worthy
of greater thought than the subject now
receives. At the present time this phase of
the work is partially neglected. I am not
now referring to the raising of cross-bred
seedlings, but rather suggesting that those
interested in these plants should try to obtain
seeds direct from the native habitats of these
Palestine Irises, and in this way, and by
raising seedlings at home, endeavour to
perpetuate the beauty of these plants for
the benefit of the rising generation of gar-
deners. How increasingly difficult the task
becomes each year is well known to those
who endeavour to grow the plants from the
too frequently insignificant rhizomes now
received. Nor is the difficulty diminished by
a knowledge of some of the facts. The
plants are lifted too early from their native
haunts, have a prolonged and enforced rest,
and are subsequently hurried into growth in
England so soon as planted, and alwavs in
the most uncongenial of our four seasons.
For let not the fact be overlooked that these
imported plants in their first year in this
country have obviously to make all their
growth between November and April ; hence
it is small wonder, with weaklings only at
the start, that so large a percentage flower
and perish almost as a result of the same.
It is in these circumstances and with these
facts in mind that I suggest that these
Cushion Irises may yet be grown in British
gardens provided seeds be obtainable from
the native habitats of the plants, and the seed-
lings raised in this country. Such a step, I
submit, would have a sort of acclimatising
effect, and by growing the young plants on
quickly there would be some hope of securing-
that which we now lack — viz., a good, well-
developed rhizome, with the expectation of it
flowering in the near future. Given the well-
developed rhizome — the plant — I am one of
those who would emphatically declare for
the annual lifting and drying as the only
really effective means in this country of in-
suring or enforcing that absolute rest which I
believe to be essential to increased longevity
in these plants. I know that there exists
some diversity of opinion on this point, and
that some growers cover their plants with
lights to throw off the wet and to give them
the rest which they believe to be necessary.

This, of course, reduces the resting period
to a question of degree, since all growers of
Cushion Irises are agreed that rest is
essential to the plant, and in imitation
also of what the plant would receive
in its Palestine home. When favouring a
period of absolute rest out of the ground each
year one's thoughts naturally incline to the
yearly importations of the roots of these
plants, and which rarely — very rarely — exhibit
any tendency to shrivelling. Then we have
the additional fact that the stronger roots
produce a good flower-spike a few months

later. But whether such evidences would
afford sufficient proof of the utility or advan-
tages of absolute rest to those who believe
this condition is met bv covering over tlic
plants is another matter. The chief gain in
my experience is in a defci red growth, thu.s
keeping the growing point below the surface
until severe frost is past, and, by assisting Ihc
plant by these means to a more deliberate,
unchecked growth under more congenial con-
ditions, assist it also to a somewhat extended
longevity. Of one thing I am assured— viz.,
that a fairly well-developed rhizome of any
Iris will endure a great amount of drying olf
with impunity. In so far as the annual
lifting and drying olf are concerned, it is
interesting to record that Mr. C. G. Van
Tubergen, jun., of Haarlem, has practised it
from the beginning with all the hybrid and
cross-bred forms now known as Regelio-
C.vclus Irises. In some degree, however, M.
Tubergen's method is justified by the average
severity of the Dutch winter, and by the
moisture-laden character of the soil. Apart
from these circumstances, however, no grower
of these Irises could desire better rhizomes
than those I received from M. Tubergen in
September, 1904, and the clean, sturdy roots,
with plump growth, and buds well in check,
afforded ample proof that the method of lift-
ing each year in no sense diminished or mini-
mised the vigour of the plant. It should here
be stated that at the time of which we speak
M. Tubergen had behind him the experiences
of several years with these hybrid forms.
That these new Regelio - Cychis hybrids
possess a vigour all their own there is
no gainsaying. Here, in West Middlesex,
planted in the company of some of the newer
as well as the older of the Palestine Irises,
the hybrids of the new race were a great
success, not merely in their first growth and
flowering, but equally so in the fine root de-
velopment that has resulted therefrom. In-
deed, the development of the rhizomes gave
the impression rather of a small flag Iris,
than which I think I could hardly pay a
greater tribute to their vigour.

Some of the tufts I have lifted and re-
planted, others I have permitted to grow un-
checked, unprotected, r.nd without any at-
tempt to enforce a resting period upon them.
My motive in doing this is to estimate
their probable value to British cultivators
when permanently planted in our gar-
dens, and while many will admire them
as seen in flower and be lempted to grow
them, others, should the lifting and drying
even for a short period prove a necessity,
will assuredly be debarred from making the
attempt. At the present time I greatly in-
cline to the belief that these Regelio-Cyclus
hybrids are likely to prove both valuable and
permanent subjects for British gardens, pre-
ferably in a sunny position. M. Tubergen
has not yet given us in the new race all the
unique or peculiar beauty of the choicest of
the older Cushion Irises, and we have, for ex-
ample, no substitute for I. Lorteti or L. alba,
or even I. Gates! ; yet the group does contain
some exceedingly beautiful varieties, and one
at least, " Charon," I believe to be quite
unique, and there are others near akin, and,
again, other kinds in which the influence of
I. parado.xa is clearly traceable, are very fas-
cinating. In so far as size of blossom is
concerned, the new race possesses an advan-
tage, and still another meritorious point is
that each scape is two-flowered.

In all probability, however, the time of
their flowering will in the near future be

194

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 1906.

cited as the greatest gain to the gai'den, see-
ing that their coming and going practically
link together in one unbroken chain the
Irises of the pumila group, on the one hand,
with the earliest of flag Irises on the other,
the new Regelio-Cyclus forms worthily filling
the long-existing void, and the more worthily
if, in the near future, they are found to be
as good from the standpoint of permanent
perennials as they are to-day good from the
standpoint of intrinsic merit and beauty.
E. II. Jenkins, Hampton Hill.

A MONSTROUS PRIMROSE.

The Primrose of which we give illustrations
(fig. 73) was handed to us by Mr. Odell, and was ex-
hibited by him at a lecent meeting of the Scientific
Committee. It was, in some respects, intermediate
between the " stellata " forms and the ordinary
sinensis, and the foliage and stem were of a deep
reddish-purple colour.

But the greatest peculiarities were observable in
the fiowers. No two fiowers showed exactly the
same conditions, but, speaking generally, the caly.\
was much enlarged, distended at the upper portion,
and of a purple colour (see fig. 73 B). Within
the caly.x was a corolla, the limb of which pro-
jected beyond the calyx and consisted of five
purplish hairy lobes, shown at B and in section at
fig. D and E.

Within the corolla and detached from it, except
at the extreme base, were fise stamens opposite the
corolla lobes, with hairy filaments and abortive
anthers occupying the mouth of the tube (thrum-
eyed), or in some flowers not projecting beyond
the tube (fig. F). The insertion of the stamens in
the flowers represented by Mr. Worthington Smith
(fig. D, E, F) v.'as higher than in the flowers
we examined, the stamens being given off from
about the middle of the tube, but, as we have said,
no two flowers were exactly alike.

Within the stamens was the ovary, elongated
into a long pod-like organ (fig. C), with a short
style, more like the pod of a Crucifer than the
usually globose ovary of a Primrose. In some
flowers instead of a short style the ovary termi-
nated in five petal-like lobes (fig. D). In fig 'G is
shown a placenta which, instead of being raised on a
long shaft, is almost sessile. Within the ovary was a
ba-sal placenta, column-like in form, and of vary-
ing length in different flowers (fig. D, E, F, G).
This shaft-like placenta was surmounted by a
globular head of ill-formed ovules (fig. H), a por-
tion of which is shown more highly magnified at
fig. J. M. r. M.

THE MANUFACTURE OF SAMSHU

(CHINESE SPIRIT) FROM SORGHUM

VULGARE.

In reply to a Colonial correspondent, who,
after reading Mr. Wilson's note, asked for fuller
information on the subject, Mr. Wi]son has
kindly written us as follows: —

" This industry is largely carried on in North
China and Manchuria, and in a lesser degree
all over China. The process, though intricate
in detail and not easily described, is really very
simple. Briefly, the main points are as follow :
— The Sorghum grain is first crushed, then
.noistened, and a quantity of the ferment agent
ground fine is thoroughly mixed witli it. The
mixture is then put into concrete pits, and
trampled firmly layer upon layer. When the pit
is full it is covered over with boiling husks or
chaff, and a layer of adhesive clay is spread over
•ill. (These pits are usually 10 feet deep, 7 feet
long, and 2-1- feet broad, and capable of holding
l,C801b. of grain.) The clay forms an air-proof
vover, beneath which the chemical changes ante-
cedent to distillation proceed. Great heat is

generated, and from time to time an opening
is made in the clay cover and an iron bar
'thrust to the bottom of the pit to test the state
of the mixture, and to allow of the escape of
superfluous gases.

".\fter 18 days the mixture has undergone suffi-
cient chemical change, and is ready for the
first distillation ; the grain is partiall}' decom-
posed, and has a sweet spirituous taste. The
grain is now moved frOm the pit, and placed in
a wooden steamer fitted with a lid having a
round opening in the top, whereon rests a con-
denser with its overflow pipe and draining-tube.
This steamer is fixed to a grating resting over
the top of an iron pan filled to within a foot of
the steamer with water. A fire is then started
beneath the iron pan, and, as the water boils,
the steam passes up through the spirit-laden
grain, vaporising and carrying with it the spirit
to the bottom of the condenser, whence it

where re-distillation on a small scale is prac-
tised. , .

" The SamsUfl is packed, in earthenware jars
carefully stoppered with clay, and also in wicker
baskets lined with tough, paper. The ferment
used is made in summer by mixing Barley and
Peas in the proportion of three of Barley to one
of Peas. The mi.xtur.e is coarsely ground, and
water added until a consistency of putty is
reached. It is then pressed firmly into wooden -
moulds in size and shape like brick-moulds.
The ' bricks ' are then piled 4 to 5 feet high, in a
room just as are bricks in a kiln, with inter-
stices for the free passage of air. The room is
kept at an equable temperature, and draughts
are rigorously excluded. Fungoid growth soon
appears, and the correct temperature being
maintained, gradually permeates the whole
brick. About forty days are necessary to com-
plete the culture. When properly dijei'd and

C^RD CHRpfN

Fig. 73. — MONSTKous Chinese primrose, with calyx and coroll.v leafv, with

PROLONGED WITH A LONG TUBE, ETC.
(For details see text. The figures are of real size except where otherwise indicated.)

trickles down the draining tube to the receiver.
The condenser is filled with cold water, and as
this gets heated and escapes through the over-
flow pipes a fresh supply is added. After two
hours the whole of the spirit has passed over,
and the contents of the steamer are removed and
re-packed in an empty pit for a further period
of 18 days, when they are ready for a second
distillation. lour or five distillations are made
ere the grains are finally flung to the pigs, a
certain quantity of fresh grain being added for
the second and third distillations. The quan-
tity of spirit yielded by one stilling, in which
1,6801b. of grain are used, averages about 6501b.
" The spirit is tested by adding water, and
watching the quantity of froth which forms
when the mixture is shaken; if one-fifth of' its
weight can be added to the liquor without con-
siderable froth forming it is considered 'prjof
spirit.' Rectification is unknown in the dis-
tilleries, but a more palatable and stronger
liquor maj' be procurerl in medicine shops,

stored, these ferment-bricks retain their active
juroperties for four to five years.

" The above methods are those employed in
North China and Manchuria, and I would refer
those in search of further detail to ' Man-
churia ; Its People, Resources, and Recent His-
tory,' by Alex. Hosie, published by Methuen
and Co.

" In Western China, especially Szechuan, con-
siderable quantities of Samshu are manufac-
tured, but here, unhusked Barley, Maize, and
Sorghum, in equal proportions and all mixed to-
gether, are used. Rice-husks are added in the
proportion of one part to twenty of the mixture.
This mixture is first well steamed for an hour ;
then piled in heaps on a clean concrete floor,
and boiling water added liberally. It is allowed
to remain in these heaps until fairly dry,
when it is spread over the floor, and pulverised
ferment is thoroughly mixed with it. The whole
mixture is next put into a concrete pit and
covered over with clay. In this pit it remains

March 31. 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

195

for a month (being occasionally examined by
aid of an iron bar) and is then ready for dis-
tillation.

" The process of distillation is similar to that
detailed above. Four distillations are made,
at intervals of a month, a small quantify of
fresh grain and rice-husks being added for the

TREE CARNATIONS.

(Concluded from page 181.)

Culture.

My experience has been that all Carnations

grown in pots for winter flowering are more or

less inclined to deteriorate, but this can be

checked to a great extent by careful selection of

Fig. 74. — .\N( ENGLISH-K.\ISED TREE CARN.iTION " BRITAXN'LA," WHICH RECEIVED AN AWARD
•OF MERIT FROM THE R.H.S. O.N MARCH 20 WHEN SHOWN DY MR. SMITH, ENFIELD HIGHWAY.
COLOUR OF FLOWERS, BRIGHT RED.
(See ante, page 190.)

second and third stiliing.s. Tl^^ quantiiy of
spirit yielded by this mixture is much less than
is obtained from the pure Sorghum in Man-
churia, but of a stronger nature. The ferment
used in the West of China is prepared from
wheaten fiour." E. H. W .

stock. When I first handled them in large
quantities it was for growing plants for selling
to the trade, and all the stock plants were potted
on and grown under cool treatment, and not
allowed to flower. The cuttings were taken
while they were short and thick, that is, the

side shoots before they had run outShin, and
from these there was no difficulty in establishing
plants that would branch out naturally and pro-
duce well-furnished specimens. There are few
subjects easier to propagate than Tree Carna-
tions, provided they are properly treated ; but
many fail with them through some slight neglect.
In the first place, they must be taken while the
stock plants are fairly moist at the roots. If
tlie cuttings once get withered they become hard
in the stem, and are sure to fail. Too much
surface heat will draw them up and take the
sap from the base : this is a common cause of
failure. A moist, cool surface, with a good
bottom heat, is what is needed, and as soon as
the cuttings are rooted they should be removed
to a light, airy, well-ventilated position, and
potted off singly before the roots get too much
matted together. From the start to finish afford
ihem plenty of light and air. In clear, frosty
weather a moderate degree of artificial heat will
do no harm ; but in dull weather such heat will
cause weakly growth, and the flowers will not
advance. The imperfect, or " sleepy " flowers, as .
the Americans call them, are, I believe, caused
chiefly by allowing the plants to get too dry at
the roots while in the bud state. The time of
flowering will depend on when the plants were
started and the time of stopping. With many
of the sorts those propagated from good cut-
tings in March may be grown on without stop-
ping ; the terminal shoots will flower in the
autumn, and the side shoots will follow on later.
But for flowering later it may be desirable to stop
all the plants at about the middle of June. Those
who have taken up the culture of the American
sorts have been impressed with the fact that they
require plenty of root room, and I think better
success would follow if our English sorts wera
grown in larger pots, or planted on benches ia
the same manner as practised by the Americans.
In growing the plants on benches it is advan-
tageous to lime-wash all the wood before put-
ting on the soil. .Some rough drainage should
lie used, and the soil made moderately firm when
the planting is done. I have found that some
are inclined to overlook the fact that it is as
necessary to make the soil firm when planting
them out as it is when potting plants.

Cross-Ff.rtilisation.

For some years I was very successful in rais-
ing seedlings, but circumstances prevented me
irom carrying on this interesting work.

In the various crosses made I found the seed
parent was of the most importance. Some varie-
ties yield but a small percentage of good seed-
lings, while from others almost all would be
fairly good. The first thing necessary is to
select those of good habit. The pollen parent
will have the most effect on colour. Indis-
criminate crossing of various colours may se-
cure some fairly good results ; but the progeny
is more liable to sport. A brighter hue of the
same colour may be secured by taking the
pollen from flowers of inferior quality, but of
better colour, for fertilising those of better habit,
etc. I have found it easy to get a good crimson
from a scarlet flower. In all cases it is better to
use the lighter shades for seeding with the
pollen from those of deeper shades for fertilising
with. One of my correspondents writes to me
that he is crossing a yellow on Mrs. T. W.
Lawson, with the idea of getting a good yellow.
This may be accomplished in two or three suc-
ceeding generations ; but I think it would be
much easier to get a good yellow by working
on to a white, or on such an one as Enchantress,
which has very little co'-our and all other desir-
able qualities, and should prove a useful parent.

SUBSTA.NXE IN CARNATIONS.

We often hear that one variety is better or
will keep longer than others, but very little is
said about the reasons for this peculiarity. In
the first place much depends upon how and
when they are cut. A bloom that has beea
fully et'.panded for some days and then cut
while the plant may be dry will last but a

196

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 1906.

short time ; but if the plant has been watered
overnight, and a bloom that is barely expanded
be cut early in the morning, the bloom would
last fully a week. I do not mean to sug-
gest that there is no difference in the varieties,
for I have found that there is. In those
with thick fleshy stems the water i3 taken
up freely, and consequently the flowers last
better than those with the thin wiry stems. Also
those which have some pollen and are readily
fertilised fade quickly. I have found when pol-
lenising for seed purposes, that as soon as a
flower is properly impregnated, the petals fade
quickly, while those which prove abortive
last much longer. With a little observation it
becomes easy to tell when a flower is success-
fully fertilised. A very dry, heated atmosphere
will cause Carnation flowers to curl up quickly.
A. H.

OBCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

MESSaS. TAilES CYPHER & SON'S
COLLECTION.

The nurseries of Messrs. Cypher in the
Queen's Road, Cheltenham, have for many
years been reckoned among the attractions of
that health resort. Orchids have always been
■well grown there, and they have gradually
required more space until now they occupy
twenty of the seventy plant-houses on the place,
and the plant-houses find occupation for forty of
the seventy men and boys employed by the firm.
It is one of the few remaining nurseries in which
all branches of the trade are carried on success-
fully, and although the Orchids take the lead
they have never been allowed to exclude other
equally worthy plants. The Orchid houses are
chiefly commodious span-roofed structures, and
in the arrangement of the plants in them as many
as possible are suspended from the roof, and the
otliers brought well up to the light by elevated
staging. Tanks for storing rain water are
arranged beneath the central staging or in other
convenient parts of the houses, and in most of
the Orchid houses there are small rockeries
arranged beneath the staging, in which
Begonias and other foliage plants grow,
and assist in preserving a moist atmosphere.
The material used for potting Orchids has here
varied but little from the first. Good fibrous peat
and sphagnum-moss are used when obtainable for
most epiphytal Orchids, but, as good Orchid peat
is not always procurable, Polypodium fibre is
found to be an excellent substitute. All classes
of Orchids are grown with less heat than in
most gardens, a reasonable amount of ventilation
is given, and shading is as little used as possible.
The plants make good growth and large pseudo-
bulbs, having hard tissues, and the colours of the
flowers are developed in their brightest tints.

In the first large span-roofed intermediate
house there is at the present time a
display of fine varieties of Cattleya Trianae,
varying considerably in colour. With them
in bloom are some examples of the scarlet
Epiphronitis Veitchii, Leelio-Cattleya luminosa,
a very handsome L.-C. x Dominiana, the
white Cattleya intermedia nivea, a quantity
of varieties of Cypripedium Lathamianum, and
C. Leeanum, of which the finely formed C.
Leeanum Cypher's variety, C. L. giganteum, and
C. L. virginale are the best. Overhead are
suspended a very large number of hybrid Laelio-
Cattleyas, Brasso-Cattleyas, etc., of flowering
size, and the whole of one side of the house is
filled with a great variety of hybrids approaching
the flowering stage. As a remarkable instance
of the quantity of flowers to be obtained from
vigorous and well-grown Laelio-Cattleyas, Mr.
John Cypher called attention to one strong and
beautifully grown plant which had produced
from a single lead three stout pseudo-bulbs, each
tvith a large flower-sheath sending up bloom.

Other examples of good culture were some mag-
nificent specimens of Lfelia purpurata and of
Cattleya Bowringiana furnished with flower-
sheaths.

The next, and rather warmer division, has
some strong plants of Phalasnopsis Rimestadtiana
in bloom, several plants of Cypripedium niveum,
a remarkably fine C. Chamberlainianum, the red-
dish-scarlet Renanthera Imschootiana, Angra^-
cum cilratum, A. articulatum, a distinct and
pretty hybrid between Cypripedium Lathami-
anum and a dark C. Leeanum, of fine colour ;
C. villoso-exul, C. aureum Lambianum, like a
green-tinted C. a. Surprise, C. Mastersianum,
and a rather effective hybrid from it, together
with some other unnamed hybrids.

Another large Cattleya house has a number of
the fragrant Cattleya Schroderae in bloom, also
C. amethystoglossa, and a very fine variety of
C. calummata with four finely coloured flowers
on one spike ; brightly coloured Epidendrum
O'Brienianum and the yellow E. xanthinum.
Overhead are suspended numbers of Odontcglos-
sum citrosmum with enormous pseudo-bulbs, the
young growths being ready to send out spikes.
With regard to these it is a common belief that
unless the plants are severely dried off, the
growths get ahead of the flower spikes and the
flowers are not produced. Mr. Cypher merely
reduces the supply of water and finds the spilies
are freely produced nevertheless in his well venti-
lated intermediate house. If rigorously dried off
annually such large bulbs would not be made.

Dendrobiums are a special feature at Messrs.
Cypher's, and this year they have been unusually
fine, for the houses have been gay with bloom
for several weeks past and are still good. The
best varieties of D. nobile are favourites, and the
finest example is the home-raised seedling D.
nobile "Perfection," for which an award of merit
and the Society's diploma were given at the
Royal Horticultural Society's meeting on March
6 last. Some other seedlings of the same batch,
also in bloom, show very fine qualities. Of others
in bloom D. nobile Cypher's variety was one of
the prettiest. D. n. Statterianum, large and dis-
tinct in colour, D. n. nobilius, D. n. Ballianum
Amesianum, two forms of the white D. nobile,
also fine D. Wardianum and D. crassinode album
were noted. Of hybrids in bloom a fine show
was made with D. Apollo album and grandi-
florum, D. rubens grandiflorum and magnificum,
D. Wiganiae and its fine yellow variety xantho-
cheilura ; D. Ainsworthii Cypher's variety, D.
Aurora, D. Clio, D. Cybele nobilius, and a great
many others. The Dendrobiums are grown in
a warm and moist atmosphere, and they are
freely watered until the bulbs are fully made up
and resting preparatory to the flowering season.
Some of the specimens have pseudo-bulbs of ex-
traordinary thickness, and all are stout in pro-
portion to their length.

The next house contains a great number of
the best varieties of Cypripedium insigne. The
largest is C. i. " Harefield Hall," of which
there are seven or eight very fine plants, and still
one in flower. The prettiest is represented by a
flower of the new C. insigne " Ethel Cypher,"
which is remarkable in several points apart from
its general beauty. The broad round dorsal sepal
has the base of a glossy, yellowish green with
raised chocolate spots, the whole of the margin
from base to tip having a pure white band about
half an inch wide, and almost equal throughout,
the white not being confined to the upper part, as
is usually the case. The petals and lip have a
yellowish hue, and the petals wavy edges. It is
a variety which will be a favourite. Of yellow
varieties there is a lull collection, though C. i.
Sanderas and C. i. Sanderianum are still the
favourites. In bloom in the same house are
plants of Cymbidium Tracyanum, good Cypri-
pedium villosum, C. Boxalli, Zygopetalum
crinitum, etc.

The collection of Laslia anceps is in fine
condition, but now nearly past the flower-
ing stage, only a good L. a. Schroderi-
ana and a few coloured varieties remain-
ing. The cool houses have a fine collec-
tion of Odontoglossums and Masdevallias, some
groups of O. Pescatorei, O. crispum, O. Ander-
sonianum, O. triumphans, O. Adrianse, and
others making a pleasing show, which may be
seen by the traveller on the public highway, for
some of the groups are arranged at the ends cf
the houses abutting on the road. With these are
fine scarlet-coloured Sophronitis, rose-coloured
Pinguicula caudata, and of Masdevallias M.
Veitchii gigantea, and other brightly coloured
kinds. On one side is a nice lot of the true but
rare Odontoglossum naevium majus ; some fine
specimens of Oncidium concolor have each from
seven to eight spikes of clear yellow flowers. In
one house is a selection of coloured Lycaste
Skinneri, with several of the best pure white
forms. A batch of Miltonia vexillaria is flower-
ing profusely, with a few M. Bleuana superba.
Odontoglossum pulchellum majus has a good
supply of white flowers.

Cypripediums are in great profusion, the best
of those still in bloom being C. aureum virginale,
C. Niobe Westonbirt variety, C. triumphans,
some good C. nitens, C. IMons. de Curte, Swin-
burne's variety, C. Thompsonianum, C. Madame
Jules Hye and C. caudatum, of which there are
several nice plants.

In one house a selection of the best scarlet
Anthuriums are furnished with their large scarlet
spathes ; two superb forms of A. Scherzerianmii
are known as Wardianum and Cypher's variety.
A. s. Rothschildianum has spathes mottled with
scarlet, and others are grouped with them.

In the show plant-houses the large specimens
of Allamandas, Stephanotis, Bougainvilleas,
Rondeletias, Ixoras, Ericas, Statices, and other
large specimens of stove and greenhouse plants
are being prepared for flowering. In other
houses Codi^ums, Cordylines, Dracaenas,
Marantas, and other decorative plants are
well grown and attractively displayed ; while
still another department is devoted to the grow-
ing of plants for producing flowers for cutting.
A'., March ib.

PLEIONE YUNNANENSIS.
A GOOD illustration of this interesting species,
lately exhibited by Messrs. Sutton (February 13'
igo6), is given in the March number of the Orchid
Review. The plant was awarded a Botanical Cer-
tificate as an interesting novelty by the Scientific
Committee.

ORCHID SALES.
Record Price for an Odontoglossum.
The sale of one hundred and twenty-two rare
Orchids from the famous collection of H. T.
Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill, took place,
as announced, at the Central Sale Rooms of
Messrs. Protheroe and Morris, 67 and 68, Cheap-
side, London, on Thursday, March i!2. The
greater number of the leading Orchidists, both
British and Continental, were either present or
represented. The result proved a record sale,,
the small number of plants realising in the
au'qregate £5,342. The Odontoglossums for
which the collection is celebrated realised the
highest prices, and of them the small healthy
jilant of the magnificent Odontoglossum crispum
Pittianum (see Fig. 75| reached the record
price of 1,150 gs., Messrs. Sander and Sons
being the purchasers. The same firm secured
O. crispum " Fearnley Sander " for 300 gs., and
others. Norman C. Cookson, Esq., obtained
O. crispum " Abner Hassall," 470 gs., O. Pesca.
torei Pitt's variety, 120 gs.. and some others.
A. Warburton, Esq., secure'J O. crispum " F. K.
Sander " for 800 gs. ; W. Bolton, Esq., of War-

March 31, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

1P7

rington, a small O. crispum Lindeni, 110 gs.,
and a good selection at lower prices. Messrs.
McBean, Cooksbridge, bought O. crispum Per-
simmon for 290 gs. Messrs. Jas. Cypher and
Sons, Cheltenham, gave 400 gs. for O. crispum
Pittias, and relatively good prices were paid for
other lots by Major G. L. Holford, Francis
Wellesley, Esq., J. Wilson Potter, Esq.,
Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Messrs. Hugh Low
and Co., Messrs. Charlesworth, and other
buyers. The first plant in the sale, Zygopetalum
Perrenoudii " Cecil Rhodes," went to the coU«c.
tion of J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., the treasurer of
the Royal Horticultural Society, and chairman
of the Orchid Committee, together with a nirni-
ber of other good Odontoglossums, Cattleyas,
etc. There was quite an international assem-
blage, M. Jules Hye de Crom, M. Chas.
Vuylsteke and his son, M. A. A. Peeters, M.
Draps-Dom, Mr. Otto Beyrodt, and others being
present. The auctioneer, Mr. Harold G. Morris,
had an appreciative audience, and bids came
freely.

mum. It had considerable resemblance to O.
ardentissimum in the sepals and petals, but the
labellum indicated O. crispum. Sold without
name or qualification, it was acquired by De B.
Crawshay, Esq., for 300 gs., a plant of O.
ardentissimum in the next lot realising 140 gs.
An importation of Cypripedium Farrieanura
sold on the same day made fairly good prices
throughout, the day's sale amounting to £3,974.
These two sales seem to indicate that the
Orchid trade is still good, for rare plants at
least !

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

Exotic Forest and Park Trees for

Europe. (Fremldndische Wald mid Parhhaiime

filr Europa.) By Dr. Heinrich Mayr, Professor

in the University of Munich. Berlin, Paul

Parey ; London, Williams & Norgate.

This very important book will be welcomed by

all lovers of trees who understand German, and,

as a whole, is by far the best account of the

Fig. 73. — RLCOKU price for .vn odontol,i.ossum — o. crispum pittianum,

AS IT WAS SHOWN FIVE YEARS AGO.

Orchids from Bank House.
At a sale on Friday, March 23, in which
duplicates from the Bank House collection of
S. Briggs-Bury, Esq., were oflered some very
handsome Odontoglossums from M. Chas.
Vuylsteke, and rare Orchids from other growers
were included. The same company was present
as at the previous day's sale, and the results
were equally satisfactory. Lot 111, Odonto-
glossum crispum Luciani, bro<jght 350 gs. ;
125, O. crispum Empress of India, 300 gs., and
another plant of it, 230 gs. ; T32, O. crispum
" Mrs. F. Peeters," 150 gs. ; 143, O. crispum
" Queen Victoria," 65 gs. ; 145, O. crispum
"Oakfield Sunrise," 210 gs. One of the most
beautiful flowers, and by far the most remark-
able, v/as a fine purple blotched Odontoglossum
sent by M. Chas. Vuylsteke, and about which
there were conflicting opinions as to whether it
was to be considered a crispum or an ardentissi-

forests and trees of the North Temperate zone
that has appeared in any language. The most
valuable part of the book is derived from the
personal observations of the author, who describes
in detail the forests of North America and of the Old
World. The part relating to Europe is, however,
much less complete and interesting than that re-
lating to Japan, where the author lived for several
years. He describes the various regions of the
latter country with great accuracy, but passes by
the equally important and interesting forests of
Siberia and the Caucasus too briefly ; though he
gives a better account of Korea and of North
China, which he visited in company with Prince
Rupprecht of Bavaria in 1903. The second part
of the book is a comparison of the cHmate. land-
scape, and forest constituents of North America,
Europe, and Asia, which will be of great value to
planters of e-iotic trees, who too often plant
whatever soecies are reputed "hardy" without

knowing- or considering their climatic and cultural
requirements. From a dendrological point of
view Dr. Mayr divides the Holarctic region into
the following climatic regions : —

1. " Lauretum," or subtropical zone of the
Evergreen Oaks, Arbutus, Box, Olive, Mari-
time Pine, Chamsrops, &c.

2. " Castanetum," or warmer zone of de-
ciduous trees, as Chestnut, Plane, Ash, Pinus
Laricio, t&c.

3. " Fagetum," or colder zone of deciduous
trees and conifers such as Beech, Oak, Maple,
Elm, Lime, Silver fir, &c.

4. "Pinetum or Laricetum " zone of coni-
fers and hardwoods such as Birch, Alder,
Willow, &c.

5. " Polaretum , ' ' or zone of the hardiest trees
such as Spruce, Pinus montana, Cembra, and
Larch.

But though these divisions may generally repre-
sent the facts of natural distribution, yet in the
cultivation of exotic trees experience has shown us ■
that they are no sure guide, and that trees from all
these regions will flourish together in some parts
of England, though they will, no doubt, only
attain perfection in what Dr. Mayr calls their
" optimum " of climate.

The third and fourth parts, on the acclimatiza-
tion of exotic trees, are of the highest value and
interest to all planters, as from them some very
remarkable conclusions are drawn, namely, that
the individual constitution of plants is of more
importance than the origin of their parents, and
that seeds taken from individuals growing wild
under very different clinjatic conditions do not re-
produce with any certainty the characters which
tliey might be expected to inherit. These con-
clusions are worthy of the careful consideration of
all institutitins where biological research is carried
on, for they seem to me to be opposed, to som&
extent, to the matured opinions of farmers and
gardeners based upon experiments with cereals
and vegetables. An opinion which is new to me,
and requires further proof, at least in England, is
that every tree in its "climatic optimum," that is,
in the region where it attains greatest perfection,
loves fresh soil ; but towards its limit of growth as
regards heat, requires fresher and damper soil, and
towards its limit as regards cold, drier soil.

The fifth part relates to the importance of correct
nomenclature and identification of introduced
species, the want of which has proved a frequent
source of error owing to imperfect knowledge,
especially among nurserymen.

The seventh part, of nearly 300 pages, is a^
list of species which are, or may be, intro-
duced into some part of Europe, and grown in
the open air with a probability of success ; and.
though, as far as it goes, this part is very reliable,
and in cases where the author has seen the trees-
in their native lands, contains many details of great
interest and value, yet it is insuflicient in many
cases to enable the reader to appreciate correctly
the comparative value for economic or ornamental
use of the trees mentioned. Some of the most
valuable and ornamental timber trees, at least in
the climate of Great Britain, such as Cedrus.
atlantica, Chamaecyparis nutkaensis and Juglans
nigra, receive but little notice, and others, such as
the Elms, Poplars, and Limes, all genera of great
variability and economic value, are dismissed in a
few lines.

It would be impossible to criticise in a re-
view the many points of interest in which Dr.
Mayr's opinions on questions of nomenclature,
Sc, differ from those of others ; it may suffice to
say that he gives reasons for his views which prove
that he has an open mind ; though, as I think, he
does not allow suflicient importance to variation,
which is as great among trees as in any other
plants. For instance, he describes as Ulmus
laciniata an Elm which is, to my mind, after seeing

198

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 1900.

it in its native forest in North Japan, nothing more
than a variety of U. montana, which produces
three-toothed points on the leaves, a character
probably inconstant, which occasionally appears
in cultivation, as I have noticed at Munich.

The eighth and ninth parts consist of general
and special rules for the planting and treat-
ment of exotic trees, and are possibly the
most valuable parts of the whole book, because
they bring together in a concise manner the
author's wide experience; but there are many
points in which these rules would not be generally
applicable in England, because of the great
difference of the climate.

The illustrations, of which there are no fewer
than 25S in the text, besides 20 plates at the end
of the volume, are mostly fair reproductions of
photographs from various sources, and sketches by
Dr. Mayr himself. A more liberally illustrated
work I have never seen, having regard to its low
cost, but I think the author would have been wiser
not to attempt to illustrate the woods of various
trees in colour, as, though very good as far as they
go, these illustrations give but a very incomplete
idea of the beauty, or variability in colour, grain
and quality of many of them. A properly illus-
trated work on timbers is a book of the future, and
will require a very much larger work than that
under review to deal with it in a manner suitable
to its economic and scientific importance. The
figures of the wood of Liriodendron and Magnolia
are so precisely similar that they might have been
taken from the same block.

It is to be hoped that the work will soon be
translated into English, as, unlike some recent
works we have on trees, it is not a mere compila-
tion, but the work of a man who, after having
studied the science and practice of forestry in his
own country, has travelled widely and seen with a
trained eye the finest forests of the temperate
region in Japan, North America, and the Hima-
layas. H. J. Elu'cs, Colciborne, Cheltenham, March
n. 1906.

Chrysantheme et Dahlia, leur entree
EN Europe, en France, et dans le depart-
ment de I'Aube. By Charles Baltet. Troyes,
Paul Nouel, 1906.
Although no longer a young man, M. Baltet is
decidedly a most industrious one, and the in-
teresting treatise by him which has just come to
hand is only an additional proof out of many.
It is curious that both the Chrysanthemum and
the Dahlia should have been introduced into
Europe in 1789, and that no horticultural author
should have dealt with these two important
autumn flowers jointly in a single volume.
"Chrysantheme et Dahlia" is a well printed
historical review of the two flowers, since their
•ntroduction more than a century since. It con-
sists of over 70 pages of text, with illustrations
in black and white, one of which — the old
purple Chrysanthemum, the first known variety
in Europe — is copied from pi. 327 in the
Botanical Magazine. The author also gives a
reproduction of the first Dahlia. So far as the
Chrvsanthemum is concerned, M. Baltet covers
the whole scope of the historical field from
Breynius to the most recent author. He relates
briefly the triumphs of his many compatriots in
the work of seedling production, not forgetting
to pay tribute to the raisers and authors in other
lands than his own. He records the work of
the various National Chrj'santhemura Societies,
but deals very sparingly with the technicalities of
culture.

In relation to the Dahlia his treatment is prac-
tically identical, and there is no doubt, to
admirers of these two popular flowers, both in
France and elsewhere, this new addition to
French horticultural literature will be warmly
welcomed. ^Ve notice M. Baltet's reference to
J\'apoleon offering, in 1804, a silk tapestry hang-
ing that had come from China to the Comtesse
de Brienne, upon which were painted birds and
flowers, among which it was thought that the

artist had included the Dahlia. We have heard
this story before, but, considering the Dahlia is
a native of Mexico, are inclined to think that the
flower in question is much more likely to have
been a native attempt at depicting an incurving
Chrysanthemum. To the inexperienced eye the
similarity of form might easilv prove deceptive.
C. H. P.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Tri:\'or Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Deciduous Orchids. — Continuing my remarks on
deciduous Orchids, the Calanthes of the vestita
group, such as C. Veitchii, C. bella, C. Harrisi,
C. Victoria Regina, C. Burfordiensis, C. Bryan,
C. Wm. Murray, C. rubro-oculata, C. liiteo-
oculata, and many others of this section, must be
repotted as soon as the young growths have com-
menced to grow, or immediately before new roots
appear. The compost in which Calanthes should
be potted ought to be more retentive of water than
that used for the majority of Orchids ; a compost
of an open nature that will allow the roots to push
themselves easily through, and at the same time
such as will hold water without becoming sour
and stagnant. Our plants have succeeded best in
a compost consisting of three-parts good fibrous
loam, the remainder being finely-chopped sphag-
num-moss, small crocks, and coarse, clean silver
sand, the whole being well mixed together. If a
sufficient quantity of fibrous loam is not procur-
able some extra moss and a little peat may be
added with advantage. The pots should be used
in a clean and dry condition, and be about half-
filled with clean, broken crocks, over which
a thin layer of turfy loam or some rough moss
should be placed. My pr.-ictice has been first to
remove the back pseudo-bulbs and then place the
best bulbs singly into pots of a convenient size ;
for the larger and stronger plants pots five inches
in diameter are most suitable. If a large number of
flowers for cutting is desired, and the accommoda-
tion for growing the plants is limited, put several
pseudo-bulbs in a pot, according to the size of both
pots and pseudo-bulbs. After turning the plants out
of their pots and removing the old soil, cut off the
dead roots, leaving about half an inch attached to
the bulb, which will help to steady it when
planted in the new compost. In filling the pots
the soil should be shaken down moderately firm
to within one inch of the top, then the psendo-bulbs
may be placed on the surface, adding more soil, so
that the base of each plant is buried about half an
inch deep. This will leave space for receiving
water, and also for a top dressing of turfy loam
when the plants have become thoroughly estab-
lished. After potting, give these Calanthes the
best position available either in the East Indian
house, plant stove. Cucumber or Melon house.
They will require no water for several weeks,
merely damping between the pots occasionally
until the growths and roots show signs of ad-
vancement : then by slightly sprinkling the surface
of the soil the roots will soon obtain a hold on the
sides of the pot, when the quantity of water
should be gradually increased, but until each plant
has filled its pot with roots the soil should not be
kept in a wet condition. Careful watering when
growth is only commencing is imperative. The
back pseudo-bulbs that are taken off may be used
for increasing the stock. Insert them thickly in
small pots filled with sphagnum-moss and a little
sand. When growth has commenced repot them
as advised for the older examples. Until these
Calanthes have become well rooted, and the
growths are full of vigour, we shade them from
all strong, direct sunshine, but afterwards they
are exposed gradually as the season advances.
In addition to the materials advised above for
potting Calanthes some growers use leaf soil and
well-dried cow manure with equally good results.

in a tank of water for an hour or so, previous t-o
insertitig them in small pots in the propagating
frame. This will destroy any red spider which
may be secreted in the corrugated leaves, and
from which it is most difficult to eradicate them
by sponging; and the leaves themselves will
absorb moisture that will keep them fresh for
a few days without needing so much atmos-
pheric moisture in the propagating box, which
might caus2 damping either at the base of the
cutting or the extremity of the leaves. When
the cuttings have made roots, care is necessary
in removing them from the cutting box in order
to avoid causing a check to the plants. There-
fore do not place the plants too near the roof
ventilators, but let them occupy a lower stage
until the young plants have become accustomed
to a drier and less confined atmosphere, when
they may be moved with advantage nearer to
the roof glass in full sunshine. At Cleveley
shading is scarcely used at all in the growing
of Crotons. Only at this season of the year
when there are sudden outbursts of sunshine,
and the young leaves are especially tender ana
liable to become scalded is there any shading
employed. Care in affording ventilation is of
vital importance in order to prevent " spot,"
which is very common in the spring months,
but is less frequent as the season advances. No
animal manure of any kind is u»ed at Cleveley
in the soil or otherwise, but a little of Standen's
manure is used according to the directions
issued. The rooting medium is of good fibrous
loam, from which the fine particles have been
excluded ; a 5-inch potful ol bone meal to each
bushel of compost, some fine crock sittings, and
a liberal addition of sand. I do not advocate
the use of large pots. Strict attention to water-
ing is necessary. Let the soil which is to be
used be warmed previously.

General Remarks. — Regulate the growths cf
Stephanotis, Dipladenias, l.apagerias. Clematis,
etc., removing any weakly shoots to prevent
overcrowding ; by this early attention much
labour will be saved later in the season.
Acacias, Boronias, Epacris, Genistas, and other
Cape and Australian hard-wooded plants which
have ceased flowering should be cut back. Apply
water most carefully till new growth has com-
menced, when repotting may be done. Maintain
the atmosphere in the stove at a temperature of
68" to 70^ at night, and 75" to 80° during
the day, allowing it to rise at closing time
to 90". Lose no time in securing a stock of
cuttings of Begonia Gloire de Lorraine.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, AUerton, Liverpool.

Codiceums (Crotons). — The successful propa-
gation of these useful decorative plants can bo
better performed at the present time than at any
other season of the year. At the re-commence-
ment of the flow of sap they emit roots so much
more quickly than when the tissues of the W'ood
have become harder. Take off the cutting.? with a
little of the old wood attached, and immerse them

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW. Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordsliire.

Peaches and Nectarines. — The fruit on the trees
in the earliest house will be now passing through
the most critical time, that of " stoning." Main-
tain the atmospheric temperature as regular as
possible, 55" at night, and 60" to 6j" during
the day, taking care not to exceed these figures
by fire heat until the fruit has stoned. Syringe
the trees twice each day, as green-fly will be
sure to put in appearance, and must be got rid
of, or it will cause the leaves to curl up and
seriously check the growth of next season's bear,
ing wood. The trees in the latest houses are
now in bloom, and may be expected to supply
fruits until fruits ripen on the trees cultivated
out of doors. They should not be subjected to
much heat, but be allowed to move slowly.
Admit plenty of air on all occasions, and when
the petals commence to fall, resume the syring.
ing of the trees, and maintain considerable
moisture in the atmosphere. Attention should
be given about every third day to dis-budding,
as was recommended for the earlier trees, care-
fully selecting the best and most prominent
growths for supplying fruit next year.

Apricots require very careful management
when grown under glas.-, for the trees cannot
withstand much artificial heat, and especially
during the early stages of growth. The delicious
fruits of the Apricot are always appreciated for
dessert, and also for the making of tarts. And
to be successful in cultivating a supply indoors
the house, or wall case, should be made so that
the lights can bo taken off in winter, and be
replaced when the trees come into blossom.
Ample ventilation should be given both by day
and night ; just keepin? out frost is all that they
require. Pollinate the blooms daily, and keep
the atmosphere of the house dry till the fruits
have set, then syringe the trees over twice or

March 31, 190G.],

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

!;"j

three times a week to prevent red-spider. Begin
to disbud the shoots early by removing fore-right
growths, reserving some of the strongest and
best placed shoots for forming bearing wood.
When the fruits commence to swell after the
stoning period has passed, weak liquid manure
may be applied with advantage to the roots.

Seeds to be Sown. — It is always prudent to have
young plants of Cucumbers and Melons in
different stages of growth ; also Tomatos, the
seeds of which should be sown thinly, so that
the young plants may be lifted out of the seed
pot when ready, and be placed in 3-inch pots
without receiving a check. Keep the seedlings
up to the roof glass to prevent thcni from be-
coming weakly.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.
Asparagus Beds. — The making of new beds
may now be proceeded with, and the planta-
tions be made just when the young growth is
about an inch high. This crop does not suc-
ceed well in all gardens. Asparagus requires
thorough drainage, and a warm, rich soil, some-
what light in character. Trench the ground '
3 feet deep, and incorporate with it a heavy
dressing of decayed vegetable mould, the refuse
of burnt rubbish, and farmyard manure. It
will pay best to do this work thoroughly in
order that the beds may last in good con-
dition for a number of years. Wnere it is
possible to procure plenty of sandy loam the
top spit may profitably be used in addition
to the other ingredients mentioned. I prefer
growing the plants on the flat instead of in
raised beds, unless the soil is usually very wet.
The lines may be made at 3 feet apart, and the
plants put at distances of '1 feet in the lines.
This will admit of the cultivation of a light crop
between the lines for the first two years. When
planting the Asparagus, spread the roots out flat
and cover them 3 inches deep. Two-year-old
plants are the most suitable to use, and if seed
is sown in nursery lines each year, and a few
new beds also made yearlj', plenty of good
Asparagus should be forthcoming for the table.
The seed should be sown early in April. Per-
manent beds of Asparagus should be finally
trimmed over by applying a slight top-dressing
with wood ashes and bone meal, but avoid
the use of heavy coatings of dung at this season ; -
rather give such a dressing after the crop has
been cut, so that the plants may make strong
growth before the season is past. The quality
of the produce to be gathered in the following
sea.son will largely depend upon the character
of this growth.

Runner Beans. — It is much too early to think
of sowing this crop out of doors, but where
protection can be given them in any cool struc-
ture just secure against frost a useful crop may
be easily obtained. In cold districts where it
is difficult to have Runner Beans before late in
August, the value of this method of culture will
be apparent. The plants can be grown in
narrow boxes of any length to suit the house,
cultivating the plants singly at 15 inches apart,
and affording them stakes placed either per-
pendicular or at an angle. Admit plenty of air
to the house when the plants are in flower and
syringe them regularly. In addition to a good
selection of the Runners, the climbing French
varieties should be included.

Mushrooms. — There is still time to collect
manure, and form Mushroom beds in the struc-
ture where they are grown for winter supply. At
any later date it will be advisable to make beds
out of doors, unless thei/e is a cellar uninfluenced
by hot weather that may be used for the purpose,
More moisture will now be required when damp-
ing down the house, and the beds will need to
be afforded water more frequently, otherwise
the crop will become tough and dry. Use tepid
water containing a little salt. It is an excellent
plan to cover the beds with thick paper to
conserve the moisture near the young Mush-
rooms.

Herbs. — Make a full sowing now out of doors
in lines of all the varieties needed for the
supply of the house, and when the plants are
large enough to be transplanted, form an herb
border, placing each variety in beds properly
labelled. Unless this is done, mistakes will
constantly happen and the wrong varieties be
sent in to the house.

THE HAEDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loui:r,

Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.
Grafting. — Stocks which were headed back as
advised should first be examined to see if the
bark will separate freely, and as soon as it
does grafting may be at once commenced.
If the weather is genial in the first and second
weeks of April, it is the most suitable time.
It may be said that most of the grafting is done
for us in the nursery. So it is, and so it
should be, for the preparation and growing of
stocks require much time and space, but there
are probably worthless trees of inferior varieties,
and these may be transformed into profitable
trees of good varieties by the process of graft-
ing. For old stocks, such as .standards that
have been headed back, "crown" grafting is best.
The branches which are to receive the scions
should be cut back to within 2 feet or 2 feet
6 inches of the main trunk. If the sap is found
rising sufficiently, run a sharp knife around the
inner edge of the cut, and then make a cut
through the bark downwards 2 to 3 inches long.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

\'.y lU'CM .\. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Fagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Annuals — The merits of plants coming under the
category of annuals are now so widely recognised
that in alluding to them it is unnecessary to extol
their value or depict the loveliness of their varied
colours and forms to recommend them, as these
attributes are familiar to everyone. True, a few
years ago it was not unusual to hear them dis-
paraged because of the prevalent idea that they
were " weedy " and " short-lived " ; but, happily,
this erroneous impression has been dispelled, and
to-day there is no class of plant more popular or
in greater favour. So liigh in esteem are they
that in many gardens the bedding is entirely
carried out with hardy and half-hardy annuals,'
and with most satisfactory results. They are
eminently suitable for massing. Stocks, Phlox
Drummondi, Petunias, Asters, Salpiglossis,
Helichrysums, Scabious, Nemesias, Antirrhinum,
and Marigold are a few half-hardy annuals which in
their distinct colours are splendid for formal bed-
ding purposes. Not only in masses are they
delightful, but a mixed border composed en-
tirely of annuals is most effective and charm-
ing. Amongst the best of the hardy annuals
for this kind of border are La\atera rosea
splendens, Godetia, Larkspur, Linaria, Clarkia,
Brachycome, Centaurea, Lupins, Coreopsis, Mig-
nonette, Saponaria, Leptosiphon, Platystemon,
Calandrinia, Erysimum, Phacelia, Kaulfussia.
Silene, Viscaria, Nigella, Nemophila, Sweet Peas,
Convolvulus, Tropaeolum, &c. The cultivation
of the hardy annual itself is of the simplest.
Take the opportunity now, when the weather is
fairly dry to make the ground firm by treading
and breaking up the rough pieces of soil with the
feet, and then pulverising by means of a rake.
The portions for the difterent seeds and annual
plants should then be marked out, care being taken
not to make them too formal. With the aid of
labels, every portion of ground should show the;
particular seed that it is intended to sow there,
that no confusion of colours may occur. In sow-
ing, the fine surface soil should be drawn back by
the hands, the seeds sown thinly, the soil returned
and equally distributed over the surface again by
means of the hand. When the seedlings have
appeared above the soil, great pains should be
taken to thin them properly to allow every indi-
vidual plant ample space to develop. This
operation and cutting away seed pods later on, are
the most important items of cultivation to ensure
tile plants having a continuous flowering season.

Fig. 7<
crow.v or ei.nd gr.-\fiing.

CLEFT GRAFTING.

Afterwards take the scion, which should be
about 5 to 7 inches in length, and cut it in an
oblique manner and the same length as the
cut in the stock, taking care that the two barks
will unite. The union must be made as nearly
perfect as possible — as a dovetailed joint in
carpentrv. As soon as the union is complete,
wrap it ia and tie with raffia or soft twine at
once, and smear this over with the prepared
clay. Two or three scions may be inserted in
a large branch ; but if a tree has three of these
large branches, about six grafts will be ample.
Young Seedling Stocks should be grafted by
the method known as " whip " or " cleft " graft-
ing. This will be found better for smaller trees
such as cordons, dwarf trees, and pyramids. Cut
the stock evenly iin an oblique manner, then take
the scion and cut it in a similar manner and
about H to 2 inches in length. Next insert the
knife and make a small tongue upwards about
half an inch from the top. Then cut the stock
in a manner to correspond with this. Take
every care to make the two inner barks fit per-
fectly ; if the desired angle can be made at one
cut so much the better. As soon as the graft
has been fixed, bind it up at once and make it
airtight by the use of wax or clay. Take means
to prevent the clay from cracking. Should there
be dry weather, an occasional spraying will keep
this right, but it is a detail which must not be
overlooked. Apple and Pear trees are grafted
in precisely the same manner.

All Pruning and Training should be finished
by this date, and the blossoms will soon expand.
Make a general eKamination of all the trees to
see that nothing has been overlooked. Keep
a look out in warm weather for American
Blight, and if any be found destroy it by means
of a brush and some powerful insecticide.

THE APIARY.

1'.'. Chloric.
Beginners in the Art of Bec-kecping. — A larga
number of people now have a little knowledge
of bees, and many, no doubt, would like to
commence keeping them this year. Their desire
will be increased because they have seen in
some of the daily newspapers that a bee-keeper
has stated that he has netted £40 per annum
from something less than thirty stocks. To
such I would say, "Hasten slowly." That bee-
keeper would not start with so many colonies,
but prubablj' with one, and, as his knowledge
increased,' he wcold add to his stocks, and thus
build up a good business and apiary.

How to Start. — Having decided to begin, the
difficulty is, "How to start"? Decide to keep
one stock in the first place, and, if you are not
a very good carpenter, purchase a ready-
made hive from one of the many bee-appliance
makers. This will cost anything from 6s. 6d.
to £1, according to the amount one is prepared
to spend on the hobby. Having received the
hive, give it at least three coats of paint. Fit
up the frames with foundation, as previously
directed, and order a swarm of someone who
can be relied on. Purchase a good smoker and
make a bee veil in the following manner. Buy
about a yard of coarse black netting 18 inches
deep, sew the ends together, run a hem round
the top, and in it a piece of elastic large enough
to fit the crown of the hat tightly.

?lo~iu not to do it. — Early last year a man,
with more money than wit, determined, without
any previous knowledge, to keep bees and
poultry as a paying hobby. Without consult-
ing anyone he sank a considerable sum^ of
money in both. The whole turned out a raiser,
able failure; in the autumn he sold the lot for
a mere song, and has gone to Canada to make-
it pay {so he says). ; m ■

200

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

'Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Welling;ton Street, Covent Garden, London.
Covimunications should be written on one side only of
THK PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the ivriter. If desifcd, the sig)tature will twt be
printed, but kept as a guaxintce of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editor does not
tmdctiake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused contntunications or illustrations, U7iless by
special arrangement. Tlie Editor docs not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

'Illustrations.- The Editor icill be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for lessor injury.

tiev/spapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News. — Correspondents ivill greatly oblige by se}uiing to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to nur readers, or of any mailers which it is desirable
'to bring under the notice of hoiticultiirists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR APRIL.

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY,

THURSD.W,

SATURDAY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

SATURDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY,
FRIDAY,

April

April
April
April

.^pril
April
April

April

April
April

/'Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.

British Gard. Assoc. Coun. meet.
3.1 Nat. Amateur Gard. Assoc, meet.

Brighton Spring Flower Show
[ (2 days).

{Shropshire Hort. Soc. Show,
Shrewsbury.
Roy. Hort. Soc. of Ireland Show
(2 days).
5 Linnean Soc. meet.

Soc. Franf. d'Hort. de Londres

WEDNESDAY, April

FRIDAY,
SATURD.\Y,

April
April

, meet.
' 1 German Gard. Soc. meet.
Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.

J United Hort. Ben. and Prov. Soc.
^ 1 Com. meet.

( Devon Daffodil and Spring Fl.

1 Show at Plymouth (2 days).

(Ann. meet. Dutch Gard. Soc. at
^ 1 Richmond.

j Roy. Hort. Soc. Coms. meet and
17 j I^at. Auricula & Primula Soc.

[ Show combined.
,c(Roy. Bot. Soc. Show Regent's
"* 1 Park.
, J Kent and Sussex Daf . and Sprinfi

1 Fl. Show at Tunbridge Wells.

/ Midland Daf. Soc. & Nat. Auri-
^ 1 cula lV Primula Soc. combined
■^ 1 Sh. Birmingham Botanic Gar-

[ dens (2 days),

27 Roy. Bot. Soc. meet.

28 Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 46'2°.
Actual Temperatures: —

l^oKDo:<. —IVedtiesday, March 28 (6 p.m.) : Mas. 45°; Min.
33'.
Gard:mrs' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, March 29
(10 a.m.): Bar., 30.1: Temp., 46"; Weather—
Bright sunshine.
Provinces. — IVeduesday, March 28 (6 p.m.): Max. 46*
Ireland S.W. ; Mm. 41° England S.E.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Herbaceous and Border Plants, Lilies, Roses, Azaleas,
Ferns, &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, B.C., by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12,

WEDNESD.\Y—

Lilies, Hardy Border Plants and Bulbs, Carnations,
Pinks, Gladiolus, &c., at 12 ; Roses and Fruit Trees, at
I and 3 ; Azaleas, Palms, &c., to follow, at 67 and 68,
Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris.
Sale of Roses, Palms, Lilies,'e&c., at Stevens' Rooms,
King Street, Covent Garden, London.

FRIDAY—

Perennials and herbaceous plants. Lilies, Roses, Azaleas,
&c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris,
at 12.

Imported and established Orchids in variety, at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe Sc Morris, at 12.45.

These outgrowths from the under

Warts on surface of Vine leaves are of very

Vines. common occurrence. In the

course of the year we get nu-
merous specimens and are asked to supply the
reason for their appearance and the remedy
for the diseased condition. In most cases the
•outgrowths are due to a want of proper propor-
tion between heat, moisture and ventilation.
There has been a sufficiency of heat, light, and an
abundance of moistiu'e, but of fresh air there

has been a deficiency. A plant requires fresh
air as much as a human being does, and if the
supplies are deficient the energies of the plant
suffer likewise. These are truisms well known
to, but not always adequately acted on, by the
gardener.

Another cause of "warts" is the presence
of mites which set up swelling of the tissues
as a consequence of the irritation they cause.
An atmosphere that is too dry and too hot
would favour the development of these minute
insects. Spraying with tobacco water or
\aporisation with sulphur carried out with all
due precaution is desirable in these cases,
and specially desirable is the destruction by
fire of the affected leaves.

But it is not of these wart-mites that we
propose now to speak. Our present concern
is with the warts due to a stuffy, stagnant,
over humid atmosphere. These have been
made the subject of special research by
Miss Dale, who contributed a paper on the
subject to the Philosophical Transactions
of the Royal Society for 1905. The paper
is mainly one for physiologists and chemists,
but some of the author's conclusions will
have special interest for gardeners, such,
for instance, as the experimental proof that
these warts ('• iritumescences " as they are tech-
nically called) do not develop on strong, healthy
plants in the open air, but on plants grown in
warm, damp, well-lighted greenhouses when
intumescences are produced in varying number
and degree. Inapreviouspaperpublishedinigoi
it was shown in the case of Hibiscus \'itLfolius
that whilst moist air is essential to the produc-
tion of these outgrowths, moist soil has no effect
provided the " tops " are in dry air. In the pre-
sent paper details are given of the artificial
production of warts on the upper surface of
Potato plants placed in a pot under a bell-jar
in as strong a light as possible and in a tem-
perature of about 85° F. Another plant by its
side was placed under the same conditions but
without the bell-glass. After 48 hours almost
every leaf and stem of the covered plant was
covered with a mass of pale green " intu-
mescences," whilst there was none on the
uncovered plant.

■' If such a plant be removed from under the
bell-jar to a drier atmosphere, as soon as the
intumescences are formed they dry up, we are
told, into black dead spots ; or, in the case of
large intumescences, actual holes appear in
the leaves, though to a certain extent the rest
of the plant recovers itself. If, on the other
hand, the plant be left for some days longer
under the bell-jar, the intumescences become
disorganised by breaking down into a brownish
watery mass, the leaves drop off, and ulti-
mately the plant dies. It is noteworthy that
after the faU of a leaf a large cushion of
intumescences is formed on the leaf-scar,
and bears a striking resemblance to wound-
callus."

We must refer the reader to the original
paper for further details on the minute
anatomy of these structures. It is shown
among other things that root-pressure and
sap-currents have nothing whatever to do
with the formation of these outgrowths which
are purely local in their origin. The internal
factors are irritability and active powers
of assimilation ; that is to say, the plant
must be in a state of active growth, or
there must be an abundance of stored food-
material. The swelling is said to be due to
the irritation caused by the formation of
some substance probably oxalic acid. Carbo-
hydrates, of which starch is one, give rise
in the tissues to organic acids which decom-

pose nitrates and tend to the formation of
" proteids " or nitrogenous substances with
a deposit of calcium oxalate. The oxalate
may therefore be taken as an index of the
changes in the nutritive processes included
under " proteid metabolism." Very interesting,
though at present scarcely of practical value,
are the investigations on the division of the
cell-nucleus, which in these cases is simple or
" amitotic," and presents manj- points of resem-
l)lance to the changes observed in the nucleus
in certain pathological growths in plants
and animals independently of any parasitic
organism. In '■ mitotic division " or " karyoki-
nesis" the nucleus breaks up into an arrange-
ment of peculiar threads called " chromo-
somes," too complicated and technical to be
detailed here. It will be remembered, how-
ever, that in the vegetative cells the division
of the cell-nucleus is simpler than that which
occurs in the reproductive cells. This more
complex arrangement, peculiar to the repro-
ductive cells, occurs, as Farmer has pointed out,
in certain tissues both in plants and animals,
notably in Ferns in the tissues formed during
apogamy (suppression of the egg-cell) and
apospory (suppression of spores), and in can-
cerous growths in man. It is still a long way '
from warts on Vine leaves to cancerous growths,
but the experiments to which we have alluded
afford one more illustration of the fact that
the researches of pure science, ignored by
some as being, as they think, of no use, often
eventually turn out to be of the very deepest
practical significance.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — A

notable feature at the meeting of the Royal
Horticultural Society held on March 6 was a
group consisting of four plants of Lissochilus
Horsfallii. Each plant was stood in a tub of
water after the manner in which Nympha;as in
pots are cultivated, and they all appeared in the
very best of health, showing that their environ-
ment had been in keeping with tlieir requirements.
They were from the gardens of tlie Right Hon.
Lord Rothschild, Tring Park, Tring (gr. Mr.
Arthur Dye), where this Orchid has been success-
fully cultivated for the first time probably since
the date when Mr. Horsfall, of Ballamour Hall,
Staffordshire, gi'evv and flowered the original type
specimen. A figure of this original plant was
given in the Botanical Magazine, t. 5,486, but the
species was soon lost to cultivation. The spikes
of 70 or more flowers are developed on tall, stout
peduncles, and are surrounded by lanceolate leaves
of a bright green colour. The sepals are upturned
and recurved at their tips, and are tinged and
lined with dark purple. The petals are orbicular
in shape and are extended forward ; they are
white, and suffused with rose colour. The side
lobes of the lip are erect, and bear purple mark-
ings on a green ground. The front lobe is of deep
rose-purple, the base of the lip is white streaked
with purple, while the callus is ivory white. The
plants are treated as aquatics at Tring. When
growing strongly frequent waterings of liquid
manure are afforded, with the result that the
specimens have formed bright green plicate leaves,
and stand some five feet in height (branched in
some instances), and bearing from 70 to 100 large
flowers and buds on each inflorescence. When
so cultivated this species has a very handsome
appearance.

The Late Comte de Kerchove. — It fell to
our lot last week to have to make known the
sad, the overwhelming loss sustained by Bel-
gian Horticulture by the death of Count Ker-
chove. It was well known to his intimates that
the deceased gentleman was the subject of heart
disease, and this circumstance may have given

March 31, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

201

rise to the statement that he died suddenly.
This, however, was not the case. He had been
seriously ill for three weeks, and was so con-
scious of his approaching end that he was able
to make known all his wishes. So ■ de-
sirous was he that his funeral should be of the
simplest character, that he even desired that the
public announcement of his decease should not
be made until after his interment. But, in the
case of such a man, such privacy could
not be ensured, and a large gathering
assemb',ed at the grave-side on the 22nd
inst., consisting of the vice-president of the
Belgian Senate, many senators, members of
the House of Representatives, and political as-
sociates, delegates from the province of llain-
aut, of which he was formerly governor, deputa-
tions from the asylums and charitable institu-
tions, in the management of which he took a
leading part, to say nothing of his horticultural
friends. At his expressed desire, no mili-
tary honours were paid to the deceased,
and no funeral orations were delivered, but no-
thing could prevent the popular manifestations
of sorrow and respect in the shape of floral
wreaths, which were extraordinarily numerous
and beautiful. Sympathetic references were
made in the Belgian Parliament, and the flags
were hoisted at half-mast in many of the streets
of Ghent to bear testimony to the incessant
labours of the Count for the benefit of the work-
ing classes, the maintenance of the orphans,
and the succour of the distressed. Only two
days b3fore his death he revised a biographi-
cal note drawn up by the " Avenir Horticole " (a
society of young horticulturists), to accompany
a portrait which was to be presented to the
members of the Society on the occasion of the
Count's accepting the honorary membership of
the Society. "Je vais vers la Veriti et VEgalitL"
were words uttered by him on his deathbed.
We can add nothing to their significance. All
that is left to us is to express, on the part of
IJritish horticulturists, our deepest sympathy
v.'ith the Countess and her family in their be-
reavement, and our fellow-feeling with our Bel-
gian friends in the momentous loss they have
sustained.

Belgian Horticulture.— The magnitude of
the losses sustained by Botany and Horticulture
dn Belgium of recent years is almost incalculable.
The obituary records of Crepin, of Py.naert, of
KoDiGAS, of Laurent, of Errera. and now of
Kerchove, leave a sense of bewilderment. Who
will preside at the next Quinquennial ? Who will
be the guiding spirit of that botanical congress
which was adjourned from Vienna last year, to be
resumed at Brussels in 1910 ? Errera was the
-chosen one — he died suddenly — Count de Ker-
•CHOVE succeeded, and now he is gone ! Qui vivra
■Venn — scrrons hs i-iiiigs .'

Royal Horticultural Society. — The next
.meeting of the committees will be held on Tuesday,
April 3, in the Society's hall, Vincent Square,
Westminster. A lecture on "The Opening of
Flowers," illustrated by lantern slides, w-ill be
given by Mrs. Scott at 3 o'clock. We would
irecommend our readers to make an effort to attend
fthis lecture, which will te sure to interest them.

LiNNEAN Society. — The next general meeting
will be held on Thursday, April 5, 1906, at S p.m.
Exhibition :— Mr. Clement Reid, F.R.S., F.L.S.,
"Some Plants new to the Preglacial Flora of
•Great Britain." Paper: — i, Mr. Spencer Moore,
F.L.S., "A Second Contribution to the Flora of
Africa." Rubiacese and Compositae, Part II, ; 2,
Mr. E. J. Schwartz, F.L.S., "The Anatomy
of the Stem and Leaf of Nuytsia floribunda ' ' ;
3, Mr. B. Hayata, "Taiwanites, a new genus
• of Coniferae from the Island of Formosa."
■ (Communicated by Dr. Maxwell T. Masters,
.F.R.S., F.L.S.)

Market Gardeners' Compensation Act. —

The BUI which has been introduced by Colonel
Long in the House of Commons "to remove
certain doubts cis to the meaning of the Uarket
Gardeners' Compensation Act 1895 " should be
considered sufficiently non - contentious to be
allowed to pass this session. It would enact that
the fourth section of the statute referred to should
apply, and be deemed always to have applied, to a
case in which the tenant executed any of the im-
pro\ements therein referred to under the conditions
therein specified at any time within ten years
before the commencement of the Agricultural
Holdings .\ct of 1SS3, as well as to a case in which
the tenant had, or should have, so executed anv
such improvement at any time after such com-
mencement. The Market Gardeners' Compen-
sation Act of 1895 was the first-fruit of Colonel
Long's legislative achievement.

Small Holdings.— The Departmental Com-
mittee appointed by the President of the Board
of Agriculture and Fisheries to enquire into the
subject of Small Holdings, held a sitting on the
14th inst. Evidence was given by Mr. J. H. Sabin
(Messrs. Smith, Gore & Co.), agents to the
Ecclesiastical Commissioners, Little College Street,
Westminster, S.W., and Mr. J. Nugent Harris,
Secretary if the Agricultural Organisatiori Society

<^/»iRDCHR^N

Fig. 77. — single flower of lissochilus
h0r5fallii.

(See p. 200, and also Supplementary Illustration.)

Dacre House, Westminster, S.W. On the 21st
inst. evidence was given by Mr. C. W. Tindall,
F.S.I. , Wainfieet, Lincolnshire, and the Rev.
Richard E. Payne, Hedge End Vicarage, Hants.

A Popular Gardener. — Mr. A. L. Statham,
head gardener at the Hall, Edenhall, Cumber-
land, has received several gifts from his fellow-
servants and various local societies on his leaving
Edenhall to take up the duties of head gardener at
Blaisdon Hall, Gloucestershire. Mr. Statham
was mainly instrumental in inaugurating the Eden-
hall and Langwathby Flower Show about four
years ago, and has since acted as its hon. secre-
tary and treasurer. On Friday e\'ening, at Eden-
hall, Mr. and Mrs. Statham were presented with
a handsome silver coffee jug by the outdoor and
indoor servants on the Edenhall estate. Mr.
Statham was also the recipient of a handsome
French clock, in marble case, and a purse of
gold, subscribed for by the members of the Eden-
hall and Langwathby Floral Society and Football
Club.

Kew IN March. -•-We are not sure that it is
quite congruous to put a "wild garden" in
proximity to shaven iawns. , Narcissi are lovely
in the grass, no doubt, but they should be
confined to the less dressed portions of the

grounds. Now, for instance, that many of the
earlier flowering kinds are past their best, there is
an untidy look about the grass plots on the one
side of the path which contrasts unfavourably with
the neatness on the other side. This would not be
noticeable away down in the pleasure grounds
or arboretum ; indeed, it would there be quite
appropriate. How delightful it would be to come
upon the Daffodils growing at their own sweet
will ! In the garden proper they should be kept
to their beds.

The house known as No. 4 is visited at all times
of the j^ear in the certain assurance that something
will be found to delight the eye and furnish sugges-
tions to those who have to keep up a show house.
But, after all, one does not go to Kew to see what
can be seen in any ordinary garden or florist's
shop, and, while we are captivated by the brilliancy
of colour of old friends, we soon look about for
plants of more interest. Just now, amid a wealth
of beauty and colour, there ari large plants of
Impatiens Oliveri in bloom. These are not so
generally attractive, it must be admitted, but to
see a big bush of an Impatiens with large lilac
flowers is what we could not see elsewhere. It
shows how the managers of Kew, whilst " up to
date" in the matter of American Carnations, to
cite only one instance, are alive to the require-
ments of those who go to Kew to see something
that they are not likely to meet with elsewhere.
.\mong other plants, not forgetting the Orchids
recently mentioned, there is Kalanchoc Dyeri, a
handsome plant of which we hope shortly to give
a figure ; Cephaelis Manni, in the Victoria House,
which will please the botanist and attract the
attention even of the ordinary passer-by ; Dis-
chidia Rafflesiana, too, with its curious pitchers,
is a plant which will arouse the attention of the
plant-lover. Saxifraga apiculata and S. sancta,
with their masses of colour, will appeal to those
who love hardy plants and would not find it con-
venient to spend hundreds of pounds on an
Orchid. But, if we once begin to catalogue the
delights of Kew, there will be no end to our story.
Suffice it to say there is something to suit all tastes.

Kew Bulletin. — Nos. 157-168 have lately
reached us. Although dated 1900, there are indica-
tions that they were not printed till March 1906.
They contain much useful and interesting infor-
mation, including a cursory account of some of
the Botanical Museums in France, in the course of
which Mr. Hillier extols the Botanic Garden in
the Park de la Tete d'Or at Lyons as the most
beautiful garden that he visited. An article on
"Madar" (Calotropis gigantea) will interest those
concerned with economic botany, as it yields a
substance which can be used as gutta percha, also
fibre from the bark, and medicine from the root.

The Flora of France. — The illustrated
Flora of France, by the Abbfi Coste, has now
reached to the Cyperaceae, so that it is approaching
completion. It is a valuable book for lovers of
hardy plants, as each species is illustrated with a
little figure, as in the illustrated edition of Ben-
tham's British Flora. It may be had through
Messrs. Williams and Norgate. j,,

LiLIUM GIGANTEUM. — Mr. SPENCER WHITE-
HEAD obligingly sends us two small photographs
representing plants of this Lily as grown by him
last year at Esher. The tallest was 10 feet 3 inches,
the others varied from 9 to 7 feet in height.
Planted against a background of shrubs they must
have been very effective. As similar specimens
have frequently been published in our columns we
do not deem it necessary to reproduce the photo-
graphs so kindly sent by our correspondent.

Royal National Tulip Society.— We are
informed that the southern section of this society
will hold their annual Show on Wednesday, May
23, 1906, in the Gardens of the Royal Botanic
Societv, Regent's Park, N.W.

202

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Maech 31, 1806.

SoLANiUM COMMERSONI. — We uaderstand that
to a lady gardener, Mrs. Hancock, is due the
credit of being the first to produce tubers of tliis
species in; quantity, This year the tubers have
lost their bitter taste, and become edible, whilst
so far' they , have proved immune to the injuries
caused either by frost or by fungus.

Botanical Survey of the Empire. — The
Kew Bulletin, No. 2, for 1905, which has lately
reached us, contains a very interesting account of
the genesis and the progress of the several Colonial
Floras prepared at Kew. The scheme was initiated
by the late Sir William Hooker, carried on by his
successors. Sir Joseph Hooker and Sir William
Thiselton Dyer. It will be remembered that
the Floras of N.W. America, of New Zealand,
Tasmania, Australia, British India, Mauritius,
Hong Kong, the West Indies, Ceylon, South
Africa, Tropical Africa, Bermuda, and St. Helena,
have all been elaborated, the great majority
entirely, others mostly, at Kew, besides similar
recensions relating to China, Mexico, Central
America, and other countries. In spite of delays
and interruptions of publication, this constitutes a
wonderful record. Canada, British Guiana, Trini-
dad, and Honduras, still await their "Floras,"
although, so far as Canada is concerned, much has
been done independently by Professor Macoun.

A Bird-Cherry with Rose-Coloured
Flowers. — In the Bulletin of the Imperial
Botanic Garden of St. Petersburg, Vol. 6, No. i
(igo6), we find mention made of a Bird-Cherry
(Prunus Padus) with rose-coloured flowers. This
was found by Mr. P. Ssuzew in the Perm district
of the Ural mountains. The author notes that
trees of the same variety growing side by side
flower at different times, so that early and late
varieties may be distinguished. Mr. Ssuzew
notes that the tendency to produce rose-coloured
flowers in other species is seen to increase as the
traveller goes eastward. It is to be hoped that the
traveller succeeded in introducing this new variety
to the St. Petersburg garden.

The Leo Grindon Flower Lovers'
Association. — Tlie movement had a simple be-
ginning. At the close of 1904 Mrs. Gkindon
did some little work in Manchester in a quiet
way, yet with results so encouraging that early
in 1905 she mapped out a definite scheme — three-
fold in its nature — as an experiment, intending
to follow whichever line seemed to promise best.
First, to promote the growth of greenery in
bacli yards ; and to this endeavour she was led
by the pleasant change she had effected in her
own. During the twenty years of Mr. Leo
Geindon's residence the bit of ground at the
back of his house in Cecil Street had only been
regarded as a back yard, or a " cat garden,"
and Mr. Grindon never set foot in it. But with
his closing years and increasing feebleness
there arose a great need of some place where
he could sit out comfortably, without the fatigue
of walking to the Park. Mrs. Grindon tells us
she set to work, and very quickly and with
little expense so transformed the despised back
yard that it became a pleasant open-air lounge,
and this encouraged her in the attempt to
brighten the habitations of her neighbours.
Many, says Mrs. Grindon, will say creepers
will not grow here, and creepers will not grow
there, simply because they have not tried them,
or not tried in the right way. Let all sceptics
wait till the early spring and then look out of
the window on the staircase in the Onward
Buildings, Deansgate, and there they will see
in as small a back yard as could well be found
a wall beautifully clothed with green, the plant
rising, not from the ground, but from a window-
box only. The wall faces north, and it gets
very little sun either east or west, it is so shut
in; and yet the creeper there flourishes — and, ss
one gentleman said, " furnishes a positive

oasis in the desert of grimy brickwork."
What one back yard can do in Deansgate,
other back yards can do, and. Mrs. Gkindon
finds very encouraging results from working
amongst back yards. And to stimulate the work
generally prizes are offered for the best creeper-
covered wall within half a mile of the Ex-
change, and another prize for the best creeper-
covered wall within one mile of the Exchange.

Russian Gardeners. — The Tsar has publicly
thanked the officials of the Imperial Botanic Gar-
den for their congratulations on his Majesty's
fete-day (December 19). The receipt of this
communication was celebrated by a Te Deiim at
the entrance of the hot houses, by enthusiastic
cheers on the part of the employees, and by the
singing of the national hymn by the pupils of the
School of Horticulture.

The Journal of Agricultural Science.
— The fourth part of the first volume of this
publication contains papers on the following sub-
jects : — Amount and Composition of Drainage
through Unmanured and Uncropped Land, Barn-
field, Rothamsted, by Dr. Miller ; British Ticks,
Edward Galton Wheler ; Phosphoric Acid in
Fertilizers, John K. S. Dixon ; Production of
Nitrites and Nitrates in Soil, E.J. Russell and
N. Smith ; Soils of the Ganges Valley, H. M.
Leake, &c. The journal is issued from the
University Press, Cambridge.

British Gardeners' Association. — .\t the
last meeting of the Executive Council, Mr. R. H.
Pearson in the chair, 35 new members were
elected, bringing the total up to 870. The question
of the registration of apprentices was favourably
considered, but as the rules do not at present
admit the entrance of gardeners under 20 years
of age into the association, the matter will be sub-
mitted to the annual general meeting, to be held
on May 30. Arrangements are being made to hold
a meeting of the association at Altrincham, and
gardeners interested are requested to communicate
with the Branch Secretary, Mr. W. H. Jenkins,
Wythenshawe Hall Gardens, Northenden. The
conditions under which gardeners are employed
under the London County Council were referred to,
but no action was taken pending the receipt of fuller
information on the subject. A special form has
now been prepared for members requiring situa-
tions, and such can be obtained from the Secre-
tary, Talbot Villa, Isleworth, W.

The Culture of Vegetables AND Flowers.
— Messrs, Sutton & Sons, Reading, have issued
the twelfth edition of their useful book on "The
Culture of Vegetables and Flowers from Seeds
and Roots." This is a valuable guide both for
professionals and amateurs, its concise, well-
expressed directions being perfectly trustworthy.
The publishers are Messrs. Simpkin, Marshall,
Hamilton, Kent & Co., London.

Where to Live Round London.— An
attempt, by the Homeland Association, 22, Bride
Lane, Fleet Street, E.C., to answer the momentous
question, "Where to Live? " It deals with the
southern and western suburbsof the metropolis, and
is evidently written by those who know the districts
ranging (alphabetically) from Acton to High Wy-
combe. The advantages of each place are brought
forward, and the several illustrations are all of
picturesque localities. The editor is Mr. Pres-
cott Row, and Mr. W. H. Shrubsole contributes
a most important chapter on the geology of the
district. Useful railway maps are appended, and
also a geological map printed in colours.

Hybrid Hippeastrum. — Dr. Bonavia writes :
" The enclosed Hippeastrum is the result of a
cross between a show llippeastrum (seed-
bearer) and H. pardinum (pollen bearer). It has
a number of the characters of H. pardinum ;
but the colour is a fine crimson-maroon, and
quite different from that of its father. The pro-

fuse spotting on the petals, both on the front
and back, is quite a distinct feature. I think
something interesting might be made out of
crossing the show Hippeastruras with II. par-
dinum in skilled hands. This is the only cross
that I have succeeded in effecting. AH the
other crosses between Amaryllids of different
genera and the Show Hippeastrums have pro-
duced nothing but Hippeastrums so far, with-
out a trace of this pollen parent."

Rubber Cultivation in Ceylon. — Mr.
Henry M. Allevn has published a useful pamph-
let on the Prospects of Rubber Cultivation in.
Ceylon, in which he speaks of the increasing
importance of the industry. Any readers interested
in this subject and desirous of information con-
cerning it are invited to communicate with Mr
Alleyn at Meeria Cottage, Maskeliya, Ceylon.
His experience will be found of much use to them.
Dorchester and its Surroundings. —
This is Vol. 46 of the now well-known Homeland
Handbooks published by the Homeland Associa-
tion, 22, Bride Lane, Fleet Street. It is written
by Messrs. F. R. and Sidney Heath, with a
"foreword" by Thomas Hardy, and a chapter
upon the country walks round Dorchester by
Henry J. Moule. Full justice is done to the in-
teresting locality, and many illustrations are inclu-
ded, as well as a map. The letterpress is certainly
more readable than that of an ordinary provincial
guide-book. Very little is made of the botany of
Dorset, the antiquarian and literary associations
being more fully considered than the natural
history.

Paris Market Gardeners on Strike. —
The Daily Telegraph reports some very disorderly
proceedings in the neighbourhood of Paris, where
the strikers overturned the wagons going to
market, and came into collision with the gen-
darmes. It appears the men stipulate for a day of
ten and a half hours, instead of eighteen ! They
are willing to work at the same wages, viz. : 6a
centimes an hour = 6d., but require 90 centimes per
hour for overtime, together with a rest on Sunday
and various other concessions.

Country In Town. — We understand that a
meeting at the Warden's Lodge, Toynbee Ilall,
Whitechapel, was held on Monday, March
26th, to further the progress of the most
laudable attempt to brighten the lives and
stimulate the intelligence of our fellow workers
at the East End as mentioned in a previous issue.
It is hoped that some of our nurserymen may be
induced to contribute to the beauty and interest
of the exhibition. As nearly a million people
have visited the Whitechapel Galleries, the
floral exhibitions would probably not be unre-
munerative, even in a commercial point of view.
Mr. J. C. Medd will act as chairman of the
executive, and Lord Caeeington as president.
Correspondence should be addressed to the
Curator, Stepney Museum, 77, High Street,
Whitechapel.

The Shrewsbury Show. — We have received
a copy of the schedule of prizes to be offered at
the exhibition to be held on .\ugust 22 and 23
next, and it may be described as of the same
liberal character as heretofore. A sum of /i,ioo
is offered in prizes, in addition to a silver challenge
vase for Grapes (value 50 guineas), silver cups,
gold and silver medals, &c. A cursory glance at
the competitive classes that are published does not
reveal any new feature of great importance, but in
the plant classes and those for cut flowers the
competitions will be more or less similar to those
which have been held for some years past. In
both sections the classes are very comprehensive.
In the fruit section the dessert table competition is-
to be continued, also the champion Grape class, and
those classes for large and small collections of fruit.
That Greek will meet Greek in all the sections at
this great show, as in years past, there can be no

March 31, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

203

doubt, but such a wealth of classes and prizes
should attract new competitors to enter the
field. There is ample room and the most liberal
encouragement to be found at any exhibition in
the kingdom, whilst every section of horticulture
finds rich encouragement at the great Shropshire
exhibition. It is more than ever evident that
Shrewsbury is to be the Mecca towards which tlie
steps of all vegetable exhibitors will be turned in
August next. Literally the vegetable department
becomes there an exhibition of itself, and it will
be a fitting compliment to pay to the home of the
great evolutionist Darwin, that a singularly prac-
tical and effective display of the effects of evolution
on edible vegetable production should be made in
the Quarry grounds next August. The total sum
offered as prizes for vegetables there reaches to
some/i8o. of which nearly /150 are devoted to
open classes, other than traders, and about ^^30
to cottagers only.

British Forestry. — .Vt the Carpenters' Hall,
on the 22nd inst., Sir Herbert Maxwell de-
lived a lecture on " The Neglected Resources
of our British Woodlands." Lord Leconfield
presided. Sir Herbert Maxwell said it was
generally recognised that the resources of our
woodlands had been sorely neglected in the
past from a variety of reasons, but that they
were capable of development — slow develop-
ment, he feared — if once they could be put upon
a sound system of management. The economic
importance, and the increasing urgency of the
question, in view of the rapid diminution in
the world's visible timber supply, and the simul-
taneous increase in the consumption, had oc-
cupied the attention of the Governments of the
chief countries in Europe. So long as Ger-
many could obtain timber abroad at reasonable
prices her people were sparing their own forest,-;,
well knowing that in the future the price of
timber must be enormously increased. In view
of these conditions, what were we doing
in Great Britain and Ireland to meet the com-
ing scarcity? He was sorry to say that we had
not yet gone beyond the stage of inquiry. One
of the most common objections raised against
forestry enterprise in the I'nited Kingdom was
that the climatic conditions were unfavourable.
Nothing could be more groundless than the sug-
gestion that British climate and soil were in-
ferior to those of foreign countries for forest
growth. Foreign experts were unanimous in
their approval and envy of our circumstances
in those respects. In Germany the State forests
returned substantial profits, and he asked why
British forests should not do the same under
similarly good management. He outlined a
scheme for British forestry under Government
direction, and, referring to the 3,000,000 acres
of our woodlands, he said that nine-tenths of
them w^ere in private hands, and, so far from
returning a profit, they were a source of annual
expense. If these 3,000,000 acres were rendered
as productive as German forests, they would
yield an annual profit of £1,000,000 a year. The
lecture was illustrated by lantern photographs
of British and Continental forests. During the
evening it was announced that the Carpenters'
Company's prizes of £20 and £10 for the best
and second best essaj' on the treatment of woods
and plantations from the age of 20 years to ma-
turity had been awarded to Mr. Leslie Wood
and Mr, Maw respectively.

Publications Received, — Annual Administra-
tion Report of the Forest Department of the Madras
Presidency 1904-1905 contains full details of the State
forests, their management, financial condition and
administration. — Annual Report of the Secretary for
Agriculture, Nova Scotia. For the year 1905 Mr.
Chipman records a season favourable for the agricul-
turist. The spring was cold, but in June growth was
rapid ; and, finally, all the principal crops yielded a
full average in quantity, and values have been higher
than for many years. Consequentlv the returns are

most encouraging, and farmers are looking forward
with hope and confidence. — Imperial Department of
Agriculture for the West Indies. Manurial Experi-
ments with Sugar-cane in the Leeward Islands, 1904-5.
Sir D. Morris here publishes in brief results given in
detail in his fuller Report on the same topic. — The
Transvaal Agricultural Jotirnal, ]^nuAry. A quarterly
publication dealing with all branches of the subject,
including forestry and botany. There are an abun-
dance of pictures from photographs, and a coloured
plate of Smuts common in cereals. — Jortrnal of the
Boardof Agriculture, March. Among the contents are :
Thistles, by John Percival; Red Clover Seed and its
impurities, byD. Finlayson ; Larch Disease, Sprouting
Seed Potatos, Sec. — Vegetables, by Horace Wright. A
second edition of a handy pamphlet published by the
London Agricultural and Horticultural Association,
Ltd., 92, Long Acre. It contains illustrations, and is
certainly cheap for a penny. — Michigan State Agri-
cultural College Experiment Station. Division of
Entomology. Insects in the Garden, by Rufus H.
Pettit. — Jahres Bericht der Bayerischen Gartenbau-
Cesellschaft, 1905. The yearly report of the Bavarian
Horticultural Society reaches us from Munich. It
reports a satisfactory season, and contains several
illustrations. — Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa,
Canada : Results Obtained in 1905 from Trial Plots of
Grain, Fodder Corn, Field Roots and Potatos, by Dr.
William Saunders and Dr. Chas. E. Saunders.

KEW NOTES.

Erioste.moxs.

Few Australian hard-wooded plants are easier
to grow than Eriostemons. In spring they are
very useful for the decoration of the cool green-
house. If required in flower a month or six
weeks earlier they readily respond to the in-
fluence of a little heat. For ordinary purposes
an atmosphere having a minimum temperature
at night of 40"^ !■'. will be suflScient. In sheltered
positions in Devonshire and Cornwall one or
two species thrive outside.

The stronger-growing kinds are readily propa-
gated by cuttings, and the weaker ones by graft-
ing on to Correa alba. They thrive in a com-
post of fibrous loam, peat, and sand. After
flowering little pruning is necessary beyond
shortening any strong shoots likely to spoil the
shape of the plant. During July and August the
robust kinds can be placed outside to ripen the
growths. Plants grown in this way seldom fail
to flower abundantly.

Although the genus contains some 25 species,
very few are in cultivation. E. affinis is a
densely-branched species, with starry, white
flowers ; E. buxifolius, as the name indicates,
has small box-tree-like leaves, and the flowers
are white, tinged with pink. E. linearifolius is
a bushy plant, with small linear-obtuse leaves
and pinky-white flowers, E. myoporoides is the
best-known and strongest-growing species of the
genus in cultivation. Several plants are flower-
ing in No. 4. The largest planted out in one of
the beds is 5 feet in height, and nearly as much
through. It is a mass of flowers. When open-
ing they arc tinged with pink, changing to white.
Produced on short racemes three to five together
in the axils of the leaves, which are shorter than
the leaves. E. cuspidatus and E. neriifolius are
forms of this species.

E. intermedins is a supposed hybrid between
E. myoporoides and E. buxifolius, but it is too
much like the first-named parent to be of value.

E. pulchellus is another garden hybrid. A
rather weak grower, the leaves are of small size,
dark green in colour, and the flowers are white
tinged with pink. A. O.

EDWARDS'S SAFETY CYANIDING
MACHINE.
The use of hydrocyanic acid gas as a fumigant
entails danger to the careless operator, but the
machine shown in Figs. 78 and 79 is intended to
minimise the possibility of accident by enabling
the operator to lower the cyanide into the bowl
containing the sulphuric acid whilst he is outside
the house and the door locked.

The machine is suspended to the roof of the
plant-house by the hook (i) (Fig. 78) attached to the
side bars at (2). The requisite quantity of water
and acid is next put into the bowl at (3), remem-
bering always that the water should be placed in
the receptacle before the acid. The scoop (4) is
held in position by means of the lever {5) to which

Fig. 78. — A ,.afety cyaniding machine, the
cyanide pan being charged ready for releas-
ing BY means of the string attached to thb
lever, the operator being outside.

Fig. 79. — showing method of releasing the
cyanide salt into the acid in the pan be-
neath, when the operator is outside the
building.

a string is attached leading to the outside of the
house. Place the cyanide salt into the scoop (4),
leave the house and lock the door. The string
may be placed either through the keyhole, over
or under the door, or through a side ventilator.
Pull the string about four inches to release the
lever (5), when the cyanide will fall into the acid
and the gas be immediately evolved.

We are indebted to Mr. F. C. Edwards, nur-
seryman, 12-15, Warehouse Hill, Leeds, the
inventor of the machine, for the opportunity of
illustrating the same. Mr. Edwards informs us
that he has applied for a patent under the name
of Edwards's Safety Cyaniding Machine.

204

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 190C.

MARKET GARDENING.

TOMATO PROSPECTS FOR 1906.
Far larger crops of Tomatos are being pre-
pared for by trade growers than were seen in 1905.
With the price of Tomatos now averaging about
3d. per lb., and, while freely admitting good cul-
ture is a necessity if best results are to be attained,
yet Tomatos afford more scope for rough-and-ready
culture than do many other crops.

Grape growing has been dropped by several
growers. Some say on account of the Vines being
worn out — for tlie moment I will let this pass — but
it is a fact that in 1905, and also in the present
early months of the year, large breadths of Vines
were, and are, being destroyed, and Tomatos are
undoubtedly taking their place.

With the present arrangement for the distribu-
tion of the fruit it will require a still wider field to
profitably dispose of the enormous quantities that
are likely to be cut this season. How this will
affect the price per lb. will be seen later, but I
cannot see a possibility of last year's figures being
maintained.

I am not losing sight of the increased popularity
of the Tomato, nor of the possibility of improve-
ment in trade generally, but I believe returns will
be lower for the coming season.

What to do with our glass is ever the question.

Last season, and I understand again this, some
growers are content to grow one crop for the
season, while others prefer planting twice, some
with a first crop of Cucumbers.

There is no disguising the fact that w-e are
likely to have an excessive supply of Tomatos,
with the natural result that low prices will obtain.
The larger firms are in many instances greatly re-
ducing their labour bill, but with the smaller
growers it will be a far tighter pinch and struggle
and should the main crop of Tomatos be cheap,
then it will indeed be bad for them. Stephen Castle.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Cross Fertilisation. — In your report of the
Horticultural Club meeting held upon March
20, 1 read with interest that Mr. X. C Cookson
made reference to the impossibility of crossing
small upon large flowers, as Sophronites grandi.
flora upon Brassavola Digbyana, owing to the
grains of pollen from the smaller flower not
producing tubes sufficiently long to effect fer-
tilisation. The Primulacese afford a good
example in support of his remarks, for in this
Order there are long and short pistils upon dif-
ferent plants (Dimorphism), and, according to
Darwin, the placing of pollen from the short
upon the long pistil, or vice versa, will be in-
effective. In my experience in fertilising
Primula ooconica, I have found this to be so,
and have been most successful in obtaining seeJ
upon that plan. I think that failures perhaps
may be due to several causes. It may be that
the pollen tube ruptures the conducting tissues
of the style by being too large, whence no doubt
decay of that organ would set in. /!/. E. Mills,
The Gardens, Coombc House, Croydon.

Natural Selection. — With reference to
Prof. Henslow's article in your issue of January
13, may I be permitted to point out two asser-
tions which I challenged in the R.H.S. Journal,
Vol. xxviii., parts 3 and 4, p. 426, with reference
to the same assertions which appeared in the
previous volume, and which are now repeated
as follows: — (I) "That variations of structure
among seedlings have been a source of injury,
detriment, and destruction to them, has never
been exemplified. (2) Specific characters are
not, as a rule, developed in the extremely young
state when thousands of them (i.e., the seed-
lings) perish." I wrote on the basis of my own
experience, now of some duration, and since the
object of every true scientist is to arrive at the
truth through facts available for its determina-
tion, even though they may upset precon.
C2ivcd theories or ideas, it i.s, to say the least of

it, unscientific to persist in unfounded state-
ments, whose lack of basis is open to investiga-
tion. I therefore challenge Professor Henslow
to disprove my assertion that, given a pan of
variable seedling plants, such variations as in-
volve smaller size and smaller area of foliage
surface are injurious, detrimental, and destruc-
tive when they occur associated with other
variations in the same species, but of opposite
kind, the result being that the robuster variants
overgrow and evenlually starve out the smaller
by depriving them of root-room and light. This
fact, lor a fact it is, is exemplified in my pans
of seedling Ferns practically every season, and
if dwarfed variants present themselves they can
only be saved by extracting them or cutting out
their robuster relatives. This being so, the
exemplification which Professor Henslow de-
clares has never existed is proved, on the con-
trary, it exists, not as a rare occurrence, but as
a common phenomenon, and I am perfectly
certain that many raisers of variable Phanero-
gams would confirm my statement respecting
Ferns, which differ in no way from them in this
respect. The second point is equally demon-
strable as fallacious. The specific characters
are, as a rule, present in the infant stage. In
Ferns, at any rate, the primary fronds emerging
from the prothallus are easily determined as re.
gards the species, and with Phanerogams, if the
cotyledons do not clearly betray the species, I
am sure the first leaves do so. Any advantage
which one species may possess over another, or
which one variant of it may acquire over the
normal by sporting, protects it from the insects
if it tends to robuster growth. I say nothing
of constitutional variation, though it is none the
less a factor to be considered. '1 hough my main
object is to emphasise the fallacy of the above-
repeated assertions in the hope that if I fail to
convert Prof. Henslow I may at least put on
record the actual facts in opposition to his
definite assertions, I should like to add a word
or two on the concluding paragraph of his
article, viz. : " Thus natural selection has no-
thing whatever to do with the origin of species."
Here, as ever, he ignores the natural sports,
which in their wide structural departure from
the normals and their constant reproductive
capacity, possess all the attiibutes of new
species. As these vary in all directions (another
point challenged by Prof. Henslow), not only in
structure, but in vigour of constitution, it is
quite conceivable that now and again a new
species may originate in this way, natural se-
lection coming in as a factor, and causing it to
spread and oust the parental form, owing to
some special advantage in the struggle for exist,
ence with which its beneficial variation has en-
dowed it. Until Prof. Henslow can disprove
this possibility, it is a pity to dogmatise as
above. Clias. T. Druery, V.M.H., F.L.S.

SciLLA bifolia "PiNKERTON.'—Itis known to
a few that the late Mr. James Allen raised a
number of seedling varieties of Scilla bifolia,
and that among them are several pink forms,
superior in every way to the old Scilla bifolia
rubra, now getting very scarce, and for which
S. b. carnea is sometimes sold. Mr. Allen was
much interested in these pink varieties, and, as
they seeded better with him in his garden at
Sbepton Mallet than in most places, he raised
some good varieties. One of these, at present
in bloom here, he called Pinkerton ; the small
offset Mr. Allen sent me in 1901 has made a
little increase, and I have now three or four
plants in bloom. It resembles Pink Beauty,
another of Mr. Allen's varieties, but is of a
better colour. The flowers are of good size,
larger than the greater number of the forms of
.S. bifolia. .S'. Arnott, Sitnnymead, Dumfries.

Flowering of Ccelogyne.— In answer to
Mr. F. Chittenden's enquiry on p. 172, respecting
the flowering of C. cristata, I remember when I
was foreman to Mr. M'Intyre, Glen Gardens, Inner-
leithen, that he showed a large basket of C. cristata
(Chatsworth variety) at the April show in Edin-
burgh, which gained the first prize for one Orchid in
bloom. When the plant was brought home it
was given the usual top-dressing of peat and
sphagnum-moss and w^as placed in the Cattleya
house to make its growth. In July, flower-spikes
began to appear at the apex of the pseudo-bulbs,
and by the beginning of September it developed 60
spikes of well-finished flowers. The plant was
taken to the September show in Edinburgh and
again won first prize for one Orchid in bloom.
I remember Mr. M'Intyre speaking to several

Orchid specialists, among them the late Mr.
Wm. Thomson, Junr. , of Clovenford. The only
reason they could give for the second flowering
was that the plant was in unusually good health
and condition, and they all thought it would be
detrimental to the future well-being of the plant.
It was put back into the Cattleya house to com-
plete the growths it had been making from the
base. Splendid pseudo-bulbs were made, and,
after resting, the plant began to show flower-
spikes as usual, and so profusely did it bloom that
it was taken once more into the Edinburgh April
show and was again awarded first prize for one
Orchid, thus gaining the unique position of having
won three first prizes in one year. Geo. Haxg,
Garvald House Gardens, Dolpliinton. ♦

The Hawfinch. — The hawfinch (Cocco-
thraustes vulgaris) is not an alien from Germany,
although it is found on various parts of the Con-
tinent, but it is also to be found in most parts of the
British Isles all the year, though there are fewer in
the extreme north of England and Scotland. Owing
to its shy and retiring habits, the hawfinch is
thought to be rare, but this is not so. It is perhaps
most common in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, but
here in Hertfordshire it may be seen at any time
of the year, and in the breeding season I generally
find a nest or two ; the young are usually liatchod
in May. Their fondness for Peas is known to
most gardeners, and a bird with a family of four
or five young ones will soon destroy a few rows.
The hawfinch (the largest of British finches), like
most other finches, has greatly increased in num-
bers since the passing of the Wild Birds Protection
Act. F. G. Gcrrish.

Protection of Seeds and Seedlings
from the Ravages of Birds. — There are few
gardeners wlio have not to cum[»lain of the loss
of seeds and young plants. Pea pods, etc., from
small birds, especially if woods, dense shrub-
beries, and copses are contiguous to the garden.
The worst offenders are finches, especially the
hawfinch, sparrows, and the crossoill. Bird
scarers, such as wind clappers and guys, are of
no avail, and the birds being abroad by sun-
rise— that is, before the "boy" arrives at 6'
a.m., they have the garden to themselves from
which to pick and choose their early meal. For
the gardener to put netting over every seed bed
or patch, or rows of Peas in bearing, is obviously
a great bother, and in some cases an impossi-
bility. A more economical and easily impro--
vised method is to buy reels or balls of thin,
black cotton thread, and with a simple imple-
ment called a threader, or distributor, fasten
crossing lines of the thread, supporting them
by means of Y-shaped pegs of wood. This may
be rapidly carried out, and forms a very effectual
scare to the birds, who are very suspicious of
being touched by that which they do not readily
detect by sight. With rows of Peas in bearing,
it is, if threaded along the rows, attaching it.
to the Pea-sticks, equally effective, and does not
interfere with the gathering of the crop. Young
Peas, transplanted from the seed boxes, etc., or
just coming through the soil, are easily pro-
tected with two or three zigzag lines of thread
made taut, and hung on pegs. F. M.

Iris verna.— The unpropitious weather during,
the last fortnight, when we had hail, rain, snow
and frost, has not deterred this lovely Iris from
flowering. Not at all fastidious as to position
and soil, from the dry wind-swept bank to the
margin of the cold stream, its large, dark
violet-blue coloured flowers appear freely, con.
trasting, or I should say harmonising, with the
patches of mild Primroses hard by. A strong
violet scent is emitted from its flowers. The
foliage is of very neat dwarf habit, and of glau.
cons, grass-like appearance. This species may
also be grown well in pots or on the rockery.
W. H. Clarke, Aston Rowant, Oxoii.

The Colonial Fruit Show. — Another
Colonial fruit show has come and gone,
and although a great improvement on its
predecessors, there is much that our Colonial
friends have to learn if fhev want their trade
to develop as I should like to see it develop,
and in making the following remarks I hope
they will be taken in the spirit in which they
are offered. The Royal Horticultural Society
have certainly done all they can well be ex-
pected to do in giving them the hall, advertising
the show in their schedules, entrance cards, and
so forth, but the two excellent judges were cer-
tainly lavish in their awards, so much so that
their decision was .severely criticised by more
than one member in the home trade. The weak

March 31, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

205

point of the whole show, in my opinion, was
the want of better staging. Nearly all the ex-
hibits were put down, as the saying is, anyhow,
more as though they were on costermongers'
barrows than at an exhibition of such import-
ance. They should take a lesson from the
exhibit of the King's Acre Nursery Co.,
or of Messrs. Kivers and Son, then the
fruit would look much more attractive.
The display of fruit in itself was all
right, but half the quantity, better staged,
would have been better, for the only exhibit
that was worth the award that was given it was
the collection got together by the Army and
Navy Stores, and which consisted of Iruits not
only from the Cape, but from Jamaica, Nova
Scotia, Canada, and other places. The recep-
tion that was given the night before the show
was all very well in its way, and it may be well
to get that class of gentlemen interested in the
exhibits, but it would have done much more
good if the following evening the members of
the trade or the large wholesale fruit-merchants
from the different parts of the country had
been invited in a similar way, for they are the
ones who can make or spoil the trade in the
future I would suggest to our Colonial friends
that, if they get such a lot of fruit sent over
in the future, it would be much better if it were
all brought up into the hall and put upon a
table lor those who would like to taste rather
than to leave so much in the cellar unseen, as
they did this time. Having visited Africa, and
having seen the possibilities of these various fruit
farms, 1 should be delighted to do anything I
could for the future success of an undertaking
of this kind, and I do not think I could give
better proof of this than when 1 say for several
weeks past I have had from six to ten boxes
of fruit a week at my own expense, sending
samples free of charge to various customers in
different parts of the country. The wine was
a most delightful exhibit, and I do hope it will
be the stei)ping stone to introducing the Caps
wine to this country in a very large way, for
I am quite sure if the Knglish prejudice could
once be overcome, the Cape wine would prove
in every way superior to that which we can get
from the European Continent. Tobacco was a
most interesting exhibit, but I fear although the
(juality was good the English public will be
somewhat prejudiced against their system of
packing, for I have often heard prejudice is
everything ; in fact, some people say that smok-
ing English cigars in England and smoking Eng-
lish cigars abroad is like smoking two different
things ; just as Englishmen say they can smoke
Dutch cigars in Holland, but when they bring
similar ones over to England, they do not seem
to relish them at all. A word to Jamaica : How
can Jamaica expect to make an impression upon
the English public if she cannot put up a better
exhibit than she did at the last show? The
stand was poor and dirty, the fruit was flung
together in a manner worse than would be seen
on an ordinary costermonger's barrow in the
East End of London. Robert Sydenham, Tenby
Street, Birmingham.

Three-spored Rusts.— An addition must be
made to my communication on this subject (see
Gardeners^ Chronicle, December 17, 1904, p. 418),
inasmuch as another species has been described
as producing " amphispores." In the Bulletin
de la Soeiete 'Mycologique de France, vol. xxii.,
fasc. 1, p. 72, M. Maublanc has described
I'uccinia la Testui on leaves of Vernonia, from
East Africa, with bicellular Puccinia spores
(Eig. 3}, and unicellular spores, resembling
urorayces (Fig. 4), which he denominates
" mesospores." It is rather a pity that the two
names of " amphispore '' and " mesospore "
should be applied to the same organ, although
" amphispore " has priority. At any rate this
is an additional species in which " amphi-
spores "' have been discovered. ISl. C . C.

Packing Seeds for the Tropics. — In con-
nection with the discussion in these columns,
the following extract is from a communication
received by us last mail from one of our
customers in India, who buys several hundred
pounds worth of seeds every year: — "The
seeds of all the varieties you sent, both veget-
able and flower, germinated wonderfully, and
this was chiefly attributed to the fact of your
having put the seeds in tinfoil inner fochets.
Please always do this, as it is a great protection
against damp. I am obliged to open seeds here
very early, that is in September sometimes,

when we are still subject to rain, and the conse-
quence is, that seeds that are not well protected
become useless. Owing to this I lost last season
fully £30 worth, if not more." James Carter &•
Co.

MisTLETO. — It is, I believe, a rare occurrence
to find Mistleto growing on a Quercus pedunculata,
or sessiliflora, only a few authentic specimens
being known in this country. Probably it is more
curious still to see it growing on a specimen of
Q. rubra, the Red American Oak, when we con-
sider the comparatively few specimens of this tree
compared to the numbers of our own indigenous
Oak. I think, therefore, botanists may be in-
terested to hear that in the arboretum at
Arley Castle, Worcestershire, there is a bunch of
Mistleto growing on a branch of a Q. rubra. The
tree in question was planted by Lord Mountmorrcs
about the year 1S20, at which time he made a large
collection of American and other foreign trees.
Among other trees which were planted by him,
and which now have Mistleto growing on them, I
may mention the red Maple, Acer rubrum, and
the black Walnut, Juglans nigra. Robert IVood-
ward.jun., Arlcy Castle.

Denorobium Waroianum. — Having noticed
one or two notes on D. Wardianum in recent issues
of the Gardeners' Chronicle, I send you a flowering
growth taken from one of the plants here. These
plants have been here some years, but they have
never flowered like this before. The growth I
send has 31 flowers. I have also enclosed one or
two flowers cut from other growths which are
carrying 26 flowers. The plants were rested in a
cool house, the atmosphere of which sometimes
becomes as cool as 40". They were given no water
whilst there. In the growing season they are
suspended from the roof of the Cattleya house,
where they generally make growths, pseudo-bulbs,
a yard in length. H. H addon, gardener to J. J.
Neale, Esq., Lynward, Park Road, Penarth. [Many
th-'nks : very fine growth indeed, and well flowered.
—Ed.]

SOCIETIES.

Abies nobilis attached by Chermcs. — From Mrs.
Bramvvell, of Worcester, came shoots of .\bies
nobilis with galls caused by the attack of Chermes
abietis or laricis, a fly allied to the aphis, which
passes part of its life-history on the Abies, part on
the Larch. No efficient remedy for use when
large trees are attacked is known.

The Mendelian Laws of Inheritance'.— Mr. C. C.
Hurst gave a lecture on the " Mendelian Laws of
Inheritance," illustrating his remarks by means of
the blackboard, numerous specimens drawn from
a wide range of subjects, afterwards pointing out
how the time of fixing any variation might be
lessened, and the fixing be not a matter of chance
but of certainty (seep. 187). Mr. Chapman said he
considered that the degree of development of
certain characters depended very largely upon
cultivation, and Mr. Worslev said that there
appeared to be an innate tendency of plants to
vary, which was often lost sight of by experimen-
ters. Mr. Crawshay said that in his experiments
with Odontoglossums the law of dominance was
clearly demonstrated. Mr. Elwes thought the
laws could hardly yet be said to be settled. Mr.
Hurst, in briefly replying, dealt with several of
the apparent objections brought forward, and
acknowledged the hearty thanks tendered to him
for his lucid exposition of the laws.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

March 20 —Present : Dr. M.T. Masters, F.R.S.
(in the chair) ; and some fifty members and visitors.

Beetle in Elm Bark.— Mr. G. S. Saunders re-
ported that the piece of Elm bark sent by Lieut. -
Col. Rogers from Sevenoaks was " attacked by
the grubs of the Elm bark beetle, Scolytus de-
structor. This pest is a very difficult one to destroy,
as the grubs live in positions in the bark in which
it is impossible to make any insecticide reach them.
About sixty years ago some Elm trees in Regent's
Park were very badly attacked by this insect, but
they were saved by paring off the bark until the
grubs were exposed, when the trees were dressed
with a mixture of lime and cowdung ; the grubs
being exposed to the weather would have died
even if the trees had not been dressed. The trees
made a good recovery, I cannot suggest any
other means for killing the grubs. It is an open
question whether these grubs ever injure really
healthy trees, for the flow of sap in a vigorous
tree would probably be very inconvenient to the
insects, flooding their burrows with sap. The
numbers of this insect in existence would be very
much diminished if more care was taken to re-
move all dying Elm trees, and at once strip off the
bark and burn it. All branches which are broken
ofif should be treated in the same manner, and no
Elm timber with the bark on should be allowed to
lie about, as is the case very frequently at present,
fnrmino centres for the propagation of this and
other insect pests."

Palm Leaves Diseased.— Mr. Massee said that
the brown blotches on the palm leaves shown by
Dr. Masters at the last meeting were due to the
fungus Pestalozzia phcenicis, a true parasite form-
ing large blotches on the foliage. The fungus is
closely allied to P. guepini, a destructive parasite
on tea (see Journal, R.H.S., vol. 28, p. 325, 326).

Primula Sport.— Dr. Masters said that the

flowers of Primula sinensis shown at the last meet-

' ing by Mr. Odell had a foliose corolla of a

purple colour (coloured like the leaves), and a

tubular ovary (see p. 194, Fig. 73).

Fungus on Elder.— Mr. Spencer Pickering sent
a specimen of the Jew's Ear Fungus, Auricularia
mesenterica, growing saprophytically on Elder.

COLONIAL EXHIBITION.

March 22, 23, 24.— The Royal Horticultural
Society held another display of Colonial-grown
vegetable products on these dates in their hall
at Vincent Square. The present show was
in a great measure a replica of the exhibi-
tions of last year, the same piles of tinned and
bottled preserves and other dainties were seen,
and similar displays of cotton, tobacco, tea,
cocoa, rubber, cereals, and a host of other eco-
nomic products were arranged about the build-
ing. Some little attempt at decorative staging
was made, notably in the two ornamental groups
seen near the entrance. These were composed
of large branches of the silver-leaf tree — Leuco-
dendron argenteum — sent over fiom Cape
Colony, arranged around tall .Palms, and
having a well-proportioned base composed of
Azaleas, Boronias, Ferns, small Palms, etc. In
other parts of the building the arrangement of
an exhibit in the form of a kiosk or a pyramid
served to break the monotony of the tables.
The Council granted quite a plethora of medals,
no fewer than four gold medals being awarded,
while others of silver-gilt and silver were freely
granted. We doubt if the cheapening of the
Society's medals in such a lavish manner is to
the best interest of the Society itself, for instance,
the granting of a Silver-Gilt Knigh'.ian Medal to a
box of dried plums or to a couple of baskets
of App.'es seemed generous to a fault. We can-
not pretend to give a detailed account of all
the individual exhibits staged, and many of the
products were such as are to be seen every day in
the grocers' shops. Some of the large London
emporiums made big exhibits from their stocks
of tinned, bottled, and dried fruits, preserves,
vegetables, sweetmeats, sugars, and the thou-
sand and on© things which we obtain from the
Colonies.

The Army and Navy Co-operative Stokes,
Ltd., 'Victoria Street, Westminster, and its
off-shoot, the Army and Navy Au.viliakv
Co-opekative Co., Ltd., Francis Street, West-
minster, both had large displays, for which they
received a Gold Medal. The West Indian Pro-
duce Association, Ltd., late James Philip and
Co., 4, Eenchurch Buildings, London, had one
of the largest collections of what we may term
Colonial groceries, and many fruits, such as
Bananas, Pineapples, Plantains, Limes, as well
as tobacco, both raw and manufactured ; also
liqueurs and West Indian wines and sauces.
South Africa was largely represented. Interest-
ing was the exhibit of wines, spirits and
liqueurs, shown by the 'Van Ryn Wine and
Spirit Company, Cape Town. This firm had
hundreds of bottles of the many types of wines,
from champagne down to claret, and from
brandies to expensive liqueurs. The exhibit
demonstrated the suitability of this part of our
Empire for viticulture. Timbers from the Cape
were shown bv the Imperial Institute, South
Kensington, and beautiful indeed they appeared,
especially where the wood was polished. The
Olive, Stinkwood (Ocotea bullata). Yellow Wood
(Podocarpus sp.)j and Red Els (Cunonia cap-
ensis), were some of the finer woods shown.
The British South Africa Company showed

■JOG

THE GA RDENERS' CHR ONI CL E.

[Mae;h 31, 190G.

a very extensive collecf.on of products from
Rhodesia, and it is marvellous to see what has
been attempted in this colony, which but a few
years since was in a state of savagery. Now it
is peacefully occupied with the raising of cotton,
Sanseveria for its valuable fibre, rubber,
cereals, tobacco, etc., saiaples of all of which
were displayed.

The \"ery .large consignments of fresh fruits,
which are now reaching our home markets from
the Cape, show what is being done in this direc.
tion in the South African Colonies. Picked
samples of these various fruits — Plums, Pe.irs,
Apples, I'eaches, Nectarines, Grapes, etc., were
freelv displayed. The Rhode Islaxd Fruit
F.ARMS Co., l.TD., had one of the best exhibits
of fresh fruits, for which they received a Gold
iledal, the same award being also granted to the
C.^PE 0KCHAE6 .Fruit Company, and to Mr. II.
OuTON, Cape Colony, for similar group's.

>Ve noticed that many of the softer-fleshed
Apples from the Cape, including Warner's King,
were badly afSected with " black spot." Plums
and Pears were the finest of the fresh fruits
shown, but they might all have been staged to
much better effect. Arranged on the walls of
the hall and at other parts of the building were
excellent photographic views and paintings of
South African scenery, notably some splendid
views of the Victoria Falls. Paintings of in-
digenous plants of Cape Colony were also
displayed.

LINNEAN SOCIETY.

March 15. — .\ letter from Dr. Chr. Aurivillius,
Secretary of the Kungl, Svenska Vetenskapsaka-
demien, Stockholm, was read, in which presenta-
tion was made of copies by Jean Haagen of the
portraits of Carl von Linne by Per Kraflt the
elder, and Alexander Roslin, in possession of the
Academy, sent in acknowledgment of the loan of
Linne's " Philosophia Botanica " interleaved and
annotated by the author, which had been returned
a few weeks ago through the Swedish Legation.
A special vote Of thanks for this most acceptable
gift was moved from the Chair, and carried
unanimously.

Prof. F. W. Oliver, F.R.S., F.L.S., then opened
the announced discussion on "The Origin of
Gymnosperms," He stated that in recent times
the balance of opinion has been in favour of
descent from the Ferns, the point of closest con-
tact being found in the Cycads, this view gaining
material support through the discovery of multi-
ciliate spermatozoids in the last-named group and
in Ginkgo, as well as from the recognition of
Palaeozoic forms (the Cycadofilices) which, whilst
retaining the habit and many of the structural
peculiarities of Ferns, show a distinct advance in
the direction of the Cycads. Now that it is known
that many of the forms there included were seed-
bearing plants, a new class, the Pteridospermea;,
has been judged expedient for these Spermophytes
which have so much in common with the Ferns.

It would appear that a preponderating number
of so-called Palaeozoic "Ferns" are in reality
Pteridosperms which have been hitherto con-
founded with true Ferns in view of their frond-like
habit and lack of distinguishing organs of repro-
duction. But if the Palaeozoic is in reality the
" age of Pteridosperms " rather than the " age of
VaQCular Cryptogams," the Hofmeisterian position
becomes altered, and the question is one that
should engage the attention of Botanists.

Palacobotanical work has shown that in the
Lycopod phylum, seed-like structures were occa-
sionally produced, and this discovery no doubt
seems to strengthen what has always been a
possibility, namely, that a portion of the Gymno-
sperms may have had its origin along this line.

Mr. E. A. Newell Arber, F.L.S., followed, on
the " Earlier Geological Record of the True
Ferns." He pointed out that the Palaeozoic
Pteridosperms exhibit marked characters in com-
mon with the true Ferns, and it is therefore more
than probable that they sprang from a Fern-like
itock. Thus the Fern-line of descent must be
geologically older than the Pteridosperms,

There is, however, every reason to belie\e that
true Ferns did exist in Carboniferous and Permian
times. The Botryopterideae were among the chief
representatives.' In the fossil state we have
naturally no evidence as to the development of
the sporangia, and further, the biseriate or multi-
seriate annulus of Palaeozoic sporangia does not
agree with that of modern Leptosporangiate spore-

bearing organs. It would thus seem better to
regard the Palaeozoic Ferns as a separate class,
from which both the Leptosporangiatae and Euspo-
rangiatjE were eventually derived. The name
Primofilices is suggested to denote this race ;
since the preferable terms, Archaeopterideae and
Palaeopterideas, are not available.

The question may well be asked, Is there any
trustworthy evidence of the existence of the
Eusporangiatae in either the Palaeozoic or truly
Mesozoic floras ? In neither is there any evidence
at all of the Ophioglossaceae, and the only instances
of possible Mesozoic Marattiaceous fronds, with
which he was acquainted, are three in number,
and all of Rhaetic age. In two species of Taeniop-
teris, sporangia, resembling those of the modern
Marattia, have been found on certain fronds, while
in Danaeopsis, another related genus, the synangia
more closely resemble those of Danaea.

In the Palaeozoic rocks we find a plexus of
fronds of the Sphenopterid and Pecopterid type,
bearing exannulate sporangia, arranged inde-
pendently in the sorus, or united to form synangia.
The great difficulty, at the present moment, is to
decide as to the true nature of these fronds. Did
they belong to true homosporous Ferns, or were
they the male fronds of Pteridosperms ? On the
present evidence he was inclined to think that a
large number will eventually prove to fall under
the^ latter category. We already know that one
Pecopteris (P. Plukeneti) belonged to a Pterido-
sperm. Also the male frond of the Bennettiteae,
a group descended from the Pteridosperms, is
known to have borne sporangia not unlike those
of the Paleozoic Pecopterids and the modern
Marattiaceae.

The anatomy of the tree-fern, Psaronius, affords
the most trustworthy evidence, at present, of the
existence of the Eusporangiatae in Palaeozoic times ;
though there would appear to be little to indicate
that this group ever attained to the position of a
dominant or ruling type in either the Palaeozoic or
truly Mesozoic floras.

Mr. A. C. Seward, F.R.S., F.L.S., then spoke
on "The Evolution of Gymnosperms: the Posi-
tion and .\ncestry of the .\raucarieae." The genera
Araucaria and Agathis may be regarded as surviv-
ing members of an ancient group of Gymnosperms
distinguished by several well-marked 'characters
from other Coniferales. During the Mesozoic era
the Araucarieae were widely distributed ; they are
now confined to restricted areas in the Southern
hemisphere. His object was to enquire into the
statement as to the antiquity of the Araucariea;,
and to ascertain whether the records of the rocks
lend support to the view that they represent the
oldest section of the Coniferales. A further ques-
tion susgested by the examination of palaeonto-
logical data was the possession o£ characters by
Agathis and Araucaria which may be designated
primitive.

In view of the widely accepted conclusion that
Cycads and Ferns were descended from common
ancestors, it is important to consider whether the
contention that Conifers, as well as Cycads, are
derived from a Filicinean stock is supported by
satisfactory evidence. While accepting Cycads as
descendants of Filicinean ancestors, the author is
led to the conclusion that Conifers, or at least
the Araucarieae. should be referred to a Lycopo-
diaceous origin.

The proceedings were then adjourned to a
subsequent meeting, fixed for May 3, 1906, when
Dr. D. H. Scott, F.R.S., Sec. L.S., will resume
the discussion.

EOYALE SOCIETE DE FLORE.

March iS. — The meeting of this society was
held on the above date in the Botanic Garden,
Brussels. The awards made included four Dip-
lomas of Honour, 35 Certificates of Merit of all
classes, and two Botanical Certificates. Some of
the best plants exhibited were Odontoglossum
ardentissimum"PerledeWolmoe,"0. a. Lambeau-
anum from M. Lambeau, O. crispum var. "Th.
Pauwels' Perfection" fromM. Pauwels, andCypri-
pedium Talisman (C. ciliolare x C. Gallieri
Hyeanum) from M. Hye de Crom. Listrostachys
pellucida, a Congolese Orchid, was exhibited by
the Botanic Garden authorities, with an excep-
tionally well-grown plant of Medinilla magnifica
in full bloom. M. de Bievre showed a collection
of 75 flowers of Carnation in 30 varieties, and M.
Paras, fruit grower to King Leopold, exhibited a
set of wonderful Lettuces.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

March 26. — On this date the executive com-
mittee of the above society held a meeting at
Carr's Restaurant, Strand. Mr. Thomas Bevan
presided. The schedule for the three shows to be
held in 1906 was presented in its amended form,
and included an additional sum of ;^20 in value.
The amounts oftered are : for the October show,
/64 8s. 6d. ; November show, £248 15s. 6d. ; and
December show-, £=,0 4s. od.

Mr. C. H. Curtis reported on the v. ork of the
publication sub-committee, who recommended the
issue of a Year Book for 1907 as a means of in-
teresting members, and with the view of obtaining
new members. The proposition was carried. The
report of the " Early-Flowering" Conference will
shortly be distributed to members.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE ROSE.

SIarch 27. — The annual general meeting of the
Gloucestershire Rose Society was held on the above
date at the Guildhall, Gloucester. It was reported
that there was a deficit of £ib 17s. 2d. on the last
show — when the National Society's exhibition was
held in conjunction with that of the local society —
which would be met out of the reserve fund. The
payments included £b$ los. 6d. to the National
Society and ^52 los. for the band. Mrs. Elwes,
of Colesborne, was elected president, and Col. the
Hon. C. Dutton was appointed chairman in suc-
cession to Canon Maddy, resigned. The secretary,
Mr. Sidney S. Starr, also resigned, and Mr. S.
Gibbins was appointed his successor.

. Mr. John Cairns. — We regret to record the
death of this well-known Scottish gardener, which
took place with startling suddenness, from heart
failure, on March 15. Mr. Cairns was a native of the
west of Scotland , having 1- .en born in the Colquhoun
country, on the banks of Loch Lomond, about 67
years ago. Hecommenced hisgardening career with
the well-known Glasgow firm of .\ustin&McAslan;

THE LATE JOHN CAIRNS.

thence he entered the service of the late Earl of
Home at his Lordship's Botlnvell Castle establish-
ment, where he was a favourite pupil of the late Mr.
Andrew TurnbuU. Mr. Cairns was later at Dal-
keith Palace gardens, where he remained a number
of years under the late Mr. Thomson. Subse-
quently, and while still a young man, Mr. Cairns
was entrusted with the management of the gardens
at the Hirsel, which position he occupied until
last year with distinguished success, and with

March 31, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

207

marked approval of his employers, the late
Earl and Countess of Home, and the present
heads of the, house, as well as of the various mem-
bers of their respective families. Altogether Mr.
Cairns was in the service of the house of the
" Homes " for nearly forty years.

Mr. Cairns was a successful exhibitor, and the
finest Leeks ever exhibited in Scotland were
shown by Mr. Cairns in Edinburgh. His ser-
vices were also in frequent request as a judge
at the more important metropolitan shows. In
particular his knowledge of fruit and of fruit cul-
ture was extensive and minute.

Less than twelve months ago Mr. Cairns relin-
quished his post at the Hirsel, when his em-
ployer indicated his appreciation of his services
and character by bestowing upon him a generous
pension.

Mr. Cairns has contributed to our annual report
on the condition of the fruit crops for a quarter ot
a century at least.

The funeral took place on Monday, igth inst., in
the presence of a very numerous gathering of
mourners.

Mr. H. M. Pollett. — The death is announced
of this gentleman on the 20th inst., at his resi-
dence, Bickley, in his ySth year. Mr. Pollett was
well known in horticultural circles, and till lately
was a member of the Orchid Committee. He was
well known as aprinterof horticultural documents.

Mr. Thomas Barton. — News has reached us
of tlie death ot Mr. Thomas Barton, head gardener
and land steward at Dunsany Castle, Co. Meath,
the seat of Lord Dunsany. Mr. Barton, who had
reached the age of 70 years, was an Englishman
who went to Ireland 45 years ago, and for the long
period of 40 years occupied the responsible position
of head gardener and land stew-ard to the Dunsany
family, by whom, and by all with whom he came
in contact, he was held in the highest esteem and
reganl.

George Clinging. — The death occurred at
Catford, on March 20, of Mr. George Clinging,
who at one time was a successful exhibitor of
Grapes at Regent's Park, Richmond, and the
Crystal Palace. Deceased, we are informed, was
a Scotsman, and was employed in his early days
in Broxmouth Park gardens. On coming to
I'-ngland he served at Marden Park, Sanderstead
Court, Ammerdown Park, and .\ston Rowant.
Correspondent .

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Apple, Der Britzer Dauerapfel.— Grtr/cn Flora, March
15-

Impatiens Holtzii,— iJcifHc Horticolc, March i6. See
Gardeners' Chronicle.

Logan Bekrv. — Garden, March 7.

Rose, Bessie Brown.— /Coscm Zcitung. February.

ivi: A R K s rr s.

Plants in Pjts, &c.: AYerage Wholesale Prices (Could.)

THE WEATHER.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
Eight days of frequent snoiv. The past week has been a
bitterly cold one. The temperature in the thermometer
screen ai no time rose higher than 43*^, which is about ^^^
colder than is seasonable. On the two coldest nights the
thermometer exposed on the lawn showed 16" of frost,
which is only i" higher than the lowest reading for the three
previous winter months. The ground has become very
cold, and is now a*" colder at two feet deep, and 4^'
colder at one foot deep, than is seasonable. Rain or
snow fell on all but two of the 17 days ending the
26th, and on eight consecutive days during that period
there occurred frequent falls of snow, sleet, and soft hail.
On several occasions the ground was nearly covered witli
snow, but in each case it soon disappeared after it had fallen.
The total quantity of rain and melted snow deposited in the
rain-gauge during the eight days in question measured nearly
an inch. The percolation through both the soil gauges,
which had very nearly ceased on the igth, re-started on the
following day. During the week the sun shone on an aver-
:ige for four hours a day, which is slightly in excess of the
mean duration for the time of year. Moderate winds
and light airs have mostly prevailed, and the direction has
been almost entirely some northerly point of the compass.
The average amount of moisture in the air at 3 o'clock in
ih- afternoon exceeded a seasonable quantity for that hour
by as much as 14 per cent. E.M., Bcrkhavisted, March 28,
WOO.

COVENT GARDEN, March 28.

We cannot accept any responsibility tor the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us regularly eveiy
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the pr'jicipai
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
niust be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and t'ley may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several times
ui one day. — Eu.]

Cut Flowers. &c. : Average V/holesale Prices.

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...

— fulgens

— cardinalis
Azalea indica., per

doz. bunches
Azalea mollis, doz.

bunches
Calla a;thiopica,per

dozen

Camellias, doz. ...
Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms
Coelogyne cristata,

per dz. blooms
Cypnpediums, doz.
Dendiobium War-

dianutn and no-
bile, per doz.

blooms
Eucharis grandi-

flora, per doz.

blooms

Euphorbia jacquini-

aillora, per doz.

sprays

Freesias, per doz.

bunches
Gardenias, per doz.

blooms

Hyacinth, dozen

bunches
Lilac, per bunch'...
Lilium auratum ...

— candidum, per
bunch

— lancif oli um,
rubrum and
album

— longitioruin ...
Lily of the Valley,

p. doz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Marguerites, white,

p. doz. bunches

— yellow, dozen
bunches

" Mnnosa," dozen

bunches
Mignonette, dozen

hunches
Narcissus, "Paper

White," doz.

bunches

s.d. s.d.

16-30
2 0- a 6

2 0-30

3 0-40

6 0-90

3 0-50
16-20

2 0-40

10-26

1 C- 2 0

2 0-26

2 0-30

2 0-30

4 0-00

2 0-30

16-20

4 0-80
2 0-30
2 6-30

1 G- 2 0

2 0-30

3 0-50

6 0-90
9 0-12 0

2 0-30

2 0-30
6 0-90

3 0-40

10-20

Narcissus, Soleil
d'Or

— Golden Spur,
per doz. bnchs.

— Horsfieldi

— Incomparabilis
varieties

— Ornatus

— Sir Watkin,per
doz. bunches...

— T e I e m o n i n s
p 1 e n u s, per
doz. bunches .

O don toglossum
crispum, per
dozen blooms

— grand e, per
dozen blooms

Ornitliogalum (Star
of Bethlehem)
per doz. bchs.

Pancratiums, doz.

Pelargoniums,
show, doz. bur..

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Primula, double

white, per doz.

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— Ka i se r i n A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty '

— Mad. Chatenay

— Mrs. J. Laing
Stephanotts, per

dozen trusses
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches ..
Tuberoses, per dz.

blooms
Tulips, perdz. bun.

— special quality
Violets, 12 bunches

— special qual....

— Parma. French,
large bunches

s.d. s.d.
10-16

3 0-50
3 0-50

2 0-40
10-20

5 0-60

2 6-30

4 0-50

16-20

3 0-40

3 0-50
6 0-90

5 0-60

8 0-12 0

2 0-30
2 0-50

3 0-50
2 0-40

2 0-30

2 0-40

3 0-60

3 0-50

4 0-60

2 0-30

3 0-50

0 4-06

6 OTO 0

12 0-18 0

10-20

2 0-30

2 0-40

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Asparagus plu-

mosus, long

trails, per doz.

^- — mediuEu,

bunch ...

— — short sprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri
.\diantum cunea-

tum, doz. bun.
Berber is, per

bunch

Croton leaves, per

bunch

Cycas leaves, each
Fern, English, p.

dozen bunches

s.d. s.d. s.d. s.d.

Fern, French, doz.

bunches ... 3 0-40
6 0 12 0 Galax leaves, per

I doz. bunches... 16-20

16-20 Hardy foliage
(various), per
0 6-09 dozen bunches 26-40

0 6-10 Ivy-leaves, bronze 16-20

— long trails per

6 0-90 bundle 10-20

— short green,

2 6-30 doz. bunches... 20-30

Moss, per gross ... 5 0-60

10-16 Myrtle, per dozen

16-20 bunches ... 30-60

Smilax, per dozen

2 0-30, trails ... .. 20-50

Plants in Pots, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

^.d. s.d.
Acac ia D ru m-

mondi, per dz. 18 0-2i 0
Ampelopsis Veit-

chii.per dozen 6 0-80
Aralia Sieboldi,

per dozen ... 4 0-60

— larger 12 0-15 0

Araucaria escelsa,

per dozen .,,12 0-30 0
Aspidisiras, green,

per dozen ... 18 0-30 0

— variegated, per

do.ien 24 0-36 0

Asparagus plumo-

sus nanus, doz. 9 0-12 0

— Sprengeri, doz. 9 O-IO 0

— ten uissimus

per dozen ... 9 0-12 0
Azaleas, per doz. . 18 0-30 0
Begonia Gloire de

Lorraine, doz. 8 0-12 0

— Turnford Hall, 9 0-15 0
Boronia megas-

tigina, per doz 18 0-24 0

s.d. s.d.
Callas, per dozen ... 6 0-90
Cinerarias, per dz. 5 0-80
Clematis, per doz. 8 0-90

— in flower ... 18 0-24 0
Crotons, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cyclamen, per doz. 5 0-90

— extra quality,.. 18 0-21 0
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen ... 4 0-50

— laxus, per doz 4 0-50
Deutzias, per doz. 8 0-10 0
Dracaenas, per doz. 9 0-24 0
Erica, Cavendishi,

per dozen ... 24 0-26 0

— g racilis, per

dozen 12 0-18 0

— melanthera ... 12 0-18 0

— persoluta ... 24 0-30 0

— Wilmoreana ... 12 0-18 0
Euonymus, per

doz 4 0-90

s.<l. s.d
Ferns, in thumbs,

per'ioo... ' -.'.I.'?? O-dO 0

— m48's, perdoz. 4 0-10 0

— in32's,per doz. 10 0-18 0
Ficus elastica, per

dozen 9 0-18 0

— repens, perdoz. 5-0-8 0
Genistas, per doz. 6 Or 9 0
Hyacinths(3inpot),

perdoz. ... 8 0-9 0

HydrangeaHorten-

sia, per dozen 9 0-15 0

— Thos. Hogg ... 12 0-18 0
Kentia Belmore-'

ana, per dozen 12 0-13 0

— Forsteriana,
per dozen ... 12 0-21 0

Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 9 0-lS 0
Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen ... 24 0-36 0
— lancifoliura,

per dozen ... 18 0-24 0

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices,

s.d. s.d.
.\pples :— English,

per bush. ... 6 0-90

— Californian
Newtown Pip-
pin,perAbarrel 16 0-18 0
per case' ... 10 0-21 0
Nova Scotians,

Lily of the Valley,
I ■ per dozen

Marguerites, white,
per dozen

Mignonette, per
dozen ...

Narcissus, per doz.

Privet, golden, per
dozen ...

Pelargoniums
(Zonals), per
dozen

Rhododendrons,
per doz.

Roses, per dozen ..

Selaginella, dozen

Spiraea japonica,
per dozen

Stocks (Inter-
mediate), per
dozen

Tulips in boxes, per
doz. bulbs

s.d. s.d.

6 0-80
4 0-60

18 0-30 0
12 0-18 0
4 0-60

6 0-90

6 0-80
5 0-90

I'er barrel

— Starks 18 0-24 0

— Spys 25 0-30 0

— Fallawaters ... 26 0-27 0
Wagners ... 18 0-19 0

— Russets ... 26 0-28 0

— Baldwins ... 21 0-25 0

— Ribston Pippin 19 0 —

— BlenheimPip'n 18 6-i:i 0

— Greening ... 25 0-26 0

— King of Tomp-

kin's County ... 25 0 —
Canadian, per
barrel :

— New York Im-
perials

— Russets

— Greening

— Baldwins
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extra quality.-.
Giants, per

25 0-28 0
22 0-30 0
22 0 30 0
18 0-25 0

7 0-
5 6-

8 6-

bunch ...

■ Jamaica

Loose,

doz.

0 8- 1 ;

Cranberries, case... 13 0-14 0
Dates, Tunis, per

box 0 4 —

— Egyptian, cwt. 19 6 —
Figs, per dozen ... 10 0-18 0
Grape Fruit, p. box 16 0-25 0
Grapes, Alicante,

per lb

— Gros Colmar,
per lb

— (Cape), small
cases

— larg** ra<e9. ...

Vegetables

2 6-36
2 3-40

s.d. s.d.
Grapes, Almeria,

per barrel .:. 7 0-21 0
Lemors :

— Messina, case 8 0-12 6
Lychees, per box... 0 10- 1 0
Melons, each ... 12 6-20 0
Nuts, Cobnuts, per

doz. lb 9 0 —

— Brazils, new,

per cwt. ... 45 0-55 0

— Spanish, p. bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 6 —

— -Mnionds, per

cwt. ... ... 36 0 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag _ ... 18 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt 35 0 —

^Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case

box

9 0-35 0
6 0-70

8 0-89
11 0-13 0

9 6-10 6
, 10 0 —

. 9 0-11 0

0 9 —
10-12
3 9 —

3 0-46

4 0-60
4 6-12 0
2 6 3 0

Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground, Abush,
Asparagus, per

bundle : —

— Dijon

— Giants

— Spanish

— Paris Green ...

— Sprue ...
Beans. French.p. lb.

— Broad, perpkt.

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— Channel Island
^ Madeira, bask.

— Niggers
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, per doz.

Murcia

— Seville, p.
(20O) ...

— Navel ...

— Jaffa ...

— Jamaica

— Blood

10 0-12 0 ~ Mandarines,

4 6-60 per box (25) ...
per „ (GO) ...

" " ■ " „ (96) ...

— Palermo; per
100

Pears (Cape), per
box

— C alif ornian,
box

— stewing varie-
ties,per i bush.

— stewing, crate 10 6 —
Pineapples, each... 2 6-70
Plums (Cape), per

2 0-40 box 36-60

0- H 0 ' Strawberries, p. lb. 3 0-80

Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.
Lettuces, French,

per doz.
Mint, per dozen ...
M ushrooms(house)

per lb

3 0 — — Buttons, per lb. 0 10
8 0-16 0 Mustardand Cress,
19-26 per dozen pun.

5 6- G 3 Onions, Valencia,
0 9-10 per case
0 4-07 — Dutch, bag ...
0 6 — — pickling, per

bushel

2 6-40 — French, ^ bag..
0 9 — — Spring, dozen

bunches ... 2 0-30

Parsley, 12 bunches 2 0- 3 0
Parsnips, per bag... 2 0-26
Peas (French flats) 3 0- 5 6

2 0-
1 3-

0 8-
4 0-

1 4

6 0

0 8-0 10

10-16

0 9-0 10
0 9-0 10
2 6-30
4 0-50
10-13
16-20

Cabbages, per tally 3 0-40

— red, per bushel 2 0 —
Carrots, French pad 2 6-30

— cwt., u n -
washed ... 13-16

— bag, washed — 2 0-26

— new, per dozen
bunches ... 4 0-80

Caulitlowers, doz. 2 0 —

— Italian Heads,

per basket ... 2 6 —

~ Cornish,' per ;. ;

crate 6 0 ' —

Celeriac, per doz. 2 6 —
Celery, per dozen

bundles ... 6 0-12 0

Chicory, per lb. ,.. 0 U-O 2
Chow Chow, per

dozen 1 6-' 2 0

Cucumbers, dozen 2 6- 4,0

Endive, per dozen 18-20
Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen '

bundles ... 10 0-12 0

Kale, Scotch, bush. 0 9-10

Leeks, 12 bundles 2 0-30

Lettuces, Cos, per, . ;

dozen .:-. ,4 0-. 6.0

6 6-
8 0-

2 0-
2 3

70
3 6

— per packet
Potatos (new) :^
Canary, cwt...-

— French (new),
per th

— Channel Island
Kidneys

— Algerian, cwt

0 3-04
12 0-14 0

0 2*

Radishes,

breakfast, p.dz.
Rhubarb, per doz.
Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Savoys, per tally ...
Sea Kale, p. punnet
Spinach, French

crate

— French, pad ...
Sprouts, ^bushel ...
Toniatos :—

•^— foreign, bundle

of 4 poxes, ...

Turiiips, per doz.

bun

— bags

— new, per dozen
bunches

TurnipTops, bush.

Watercress,, pec

doz. bunches ..

0 5 —

18 0 —

barrel 18 0 —

French

13-16

0 9-10

4 —

5 0-70
10-13

30 ^
4 0-53

13 —

1 0^ 1 (J

2 0- 2 3

9 0 —
10-13

0.4 -

208

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[March 31, 1906.

POTATOS.

Blacklands, 60s. to 65s. ; Bedfords, 65s. to 75s. ; Lincolns,
55s. to 70s. ; Kents, 70s. to 80s. ; Dunbars, 80s. to 95s. per ton.
—John JJath, 32 and 34. Wellington Street, Covent Garden.
COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

Next week the niaiket will be open for the sale of pot
plants every morning, but unless improvements take place,
both in the weather and in the amount of trade done, I am
afraid it will not be of much advantage to either growers or
buyers. During the past week business has been very dull,
while supplies all round have been over abundant. Most
spring flowering plants are now in good condition. Mig-
nonette is very good from several growers. Intermediate
Stocks, especially those of the white variety, are very fine.
Hydrangea Hortensia with good inflorescences of well-
coloured flowers are seen. The variety Thomas Hogg
is also very good. Polygonatum multiflorum is pretty,
but does not sell freely. Supplies of Spiraeas are excessive.
S. astilboides floribunda is one of the best for market pur-
poses, although many growers still rely upon the old favourite
"J.iponica." Cinerarias are plentiful and good. Genistas are
seen on many stands, and their prices are low. Cyclamen sell
slowly. Rose Little Fet is seen in well-flowered plants from
Mr. E. Rochford, and also from Mr. H. B. May, who has also
started marketing large plants of Crimson Rambler. Some
fairly good hybrid perpetual Roses are sent by Mr. Kirby.
Madame Levavas?eur is procurable in well-flowered plants.
Deutzia gracilis, although in good condition, has little
demand. Lilium Harrisii can be had in dwarf plants, well
flowered. Good plants of Indian Azaleas and A. mollis are
seen. Lily of the Valley in pots is remarkably good. This
plant is also seen in boxes, with strong spikes of bloom and
good foliage. Large quantities of Hyacinths are still seen,
but some are rather far advanced. Manv of the Tulips are
past their best condition. A few fresh pots of the later
spring varieties are to be had.

Hardy Flower Roots and Bedding Plants.

Although the weather has not been favourable, large

supplies of garden plants are coming in. Many spring

flowers which have received slight protection are iu flower,

including Primroses, Polyanthus, Pansies, Daisies, &c.

Cut Flowers.

The cold weather has checked supplies to some extent
and, generally, higher prices prevail, but there is a surplus
of many things. Roses were probably never quite so much
over done as at the present time, especially those of high
quality with good foliage and long stems. Capt. Haj-ward,
Caroline Testout, Mrs. Sharman Crawford, La France,
i\Iadame A. Chatenay, The Bride, Kaiserin Augusta Vic-
ton:! and Catherine Mermet, are all seen in splendid
quality blooms. Some may realise good figures, but
many have to go very cheaply, and when one sees
street flower sellers carrying large bundles of Roses
from the market, it is quite evident that prices are bad.
Carnations are remarkably good. It is chiefly American
varieties that are seen, but 1 find there are some English
sorts. Britannia makes top prices among " scarlets." Leander
is good, and very large quantities of Mrs. Leopold de Roths-
child are also seen. Daffodils continue over plentiful.
Tulips are getting a little past their best and are inclined to
advance in prices. Liliums have also a tendency to become
dearer. L. candidum is to be had in good quality blooms.
Flowers of L. lancifolium rubrum are better in colour than
they have been. Auratums are very good. Callas may con-
siderably advance in prices before Easter. Gardenias
are cheap. Supplies of Lily of the Valley are abundant.
Violets, both English and French, are good. There is no
lack of Wallflowers, Primroses, Myosotis, and other spring
flowers, iu spite of the cold weatlier. With the exception of
Narcissus there is a falling off in supplies of imported
flowers. Foliage of all kinds is well supplied. A. //.,
Covent Garden, March 28.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Acetylene Gas Refuse : R. G. It has been
found that for horticultural purposes this waste
may be considered as lime, and used as such in
the cultivation of crops. See note in the issue
of Gardentrs' Chronicle for February 13, 1904,
p. 108.

Apple Seedling: Novice. It is not necessary to
first graft your seedhng Apple tree before
expecting it to produce fruit. Every seedling
may be eNpecled to (ruit after the lapse of an
indefinite period, whicli wdl be longer or shorter
according to the conditions of cultivation and
tlie particular habit and characteristics inherited
by the plant. If allowed to flower and fruit
before grafting or budding is done there is the
bare possibility that the seedling may be a
variety possessing qualities superior to any other
in cultivation. The advantages to be obtained
by grafting are mainly two, and they are as
follows: I. The seedling is made to bear fruit
at an earlier age than it would be capable of
doing otherwise. 2. The seedling instead of
remaining of an indefinite character, with the
probability that it will prove to be less valuable
than existing varieties, is converted into a
variety specially selected by the cultivator. If
you wish to graft the young tree turn to p. 199,
where directions for carrying out this operation
are given and illustrated. But the operation is
a delicate one, and if you have had no experi-
ence whatever you had better obtain a practical
lesson from someone in the neighbourhood.

Bulbs : H. S.' Mites and fungi are either absent,
or present in sjch small quantities as not to
account for the absence of roots. Badly
matured bulbs always fail to produce roots in
sufficient quantity.

Correction: Lycaste_Skinneri "Beauty." In
the report of the Royal Horticultural Society's
Show held on March 20, the award to this plant
should have been recorded as a First Diploma,
not as a Second.

Figs Diseased: A. R. S. The plant is badly
affected with a fungus disease, Cercospora Bol-
leana, which was figured and described in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, July 7, igoo, p. 5. Try
spraying with dilute Bordeaux mixture.

Glazed Thrips : Horti. What do you mean by
"Glazed" thrips? If you mean the common
insect pest so frequently seen on Azaleas and
other plants, you may destroy them by fumiga-
ting with one of the nicotine preparations, or by
syringing with hot water contaming plenty of
soft soap in solution and a little paraffin, adopt-
ing one or other remedy according to the nature
of the particular plants attacked. You might
even treat them to an application of hydrocyanic
acid gas, and in that case you should refer to the
figures on p. 203 which show how the operation
may be carried out without risk to the operator.

Hippeastrum (Amaryllis) : A. D. We have failed
to discover any mites in your bulb, although
the appearances seemed to indicate the presence
of thrips or some other insect which injures the
plant. Perhaps the plants will outgrow the
condition, as the bulb sent is of considerable
strength. If the trouble continues write us again.

Lawn : A. G. The presence of Moss is an indica-
tion that the ground is very poor, or is shaded,
or that it requires draining. If the case is not
a very bad one, let the worst of the Moss be
scratched off with a rake, and then apply a top-
dressing of fine soil containing a liberal quantity
of a nitrogenous manure. Coarse sand is of
little if any value, but you might apply wood-
ashes advantageously.

London Holiday: /. B. H. In the immediate
locality there are the nurseries of Jno. Laing &
Son and Messrs. J. Carter & Co. But you
could easily visit such nurseries as those of J.
Peed & Sons, West Norwood ; Jas. Veitch &
Sons, and W. Bull & Sons, Chelsea; B. S.
Williams & Son, Holloway ; W. Cutbush &
Sons, Highgate; R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate ;
&c. There will be fortnightly shows of the
Royal Horticultural Society on May i and
May 15 in the Hall at Vincent Square, West-
minster, and an exhibition by the Koyal Botanic
Society, on May 16, in the Society's .gardens at
Regent's Park. You should certainly make an
effort to see these exhibitions, and to make
several excursions to the Royal Gardens, Kew.

MuscARi : G. H.. California. The genus is known
under the familiar name of Grape-Hyacinth.
The species M. bolryoides, as the Pearls of
Spain, Heavenly-Blue Grape-Hyacinth, &c.

Names of Pla.nts : Bella. Berberis Darwinii. i,
a variety of Narcissus incomparabilis ; 2, a
variety of Narcissus pseudo Narcissus. — W. T.,
Gloucester : There are two Dendrobiums, the
flowers of which closely appiroach each other
when withered, as your specimen was when it
reached us. If it has long slender pseudo-bulbs
2 feet or more it is Dendrobium Pierardi. It
the pseudo-bulbs are about i foot m length,
and stout in proportion, it is Dendrobium
primulinum. Both species vary considerably
but may be readily distinguished from fresli
material. If you had placed a little green moss
with the flower it would have travelled better.
Thos. 0. Senocio Petasites. — IV. B. Columnea
erythropha;a. — A. G. i. Pentas carnea. 2,
Probably a species of .lEschynanthus ; send
when in flower. — A. W. T. Solanum jasmin-
oides. — A. C. H. i, Cypripedium Lawrence-
anum ; 2, Cypripedium callosum : 3, Odonto-
glossum crispum ; 4, Laelia Jongheana. — E. Y.
I, Odontoglossum crispum guttatum, not of good
quality; 2, Oncidium insculptum : 3, Odonto-
glossum cirrosum. — IV. E. S. Odontoglossum
Hunnewellianum. In one of the localities of
Odontoglossum crispum, O. Hunnewellianum
grows with it, and has resulted in the natural
hybrid between the two known as O. Adrianae.
— A . H. Eurya latifolia variegata, a nearly
hardy shrub. The other plant is Primula den-
ticulata, a good variety of it. — E. G. L. Olearia
myrsinoides.

OxALis: G. H. California. There are all sorts of
common names for this plant. In A Dictionary
of English Plant Names, by James Britten and
Robert Holland, the following are enumerated
under the species: O, Acetosella, Alleluia,
AUolida, Bird's Bread and Cheese, Bread and

Cheese, Cheese-and-Bread (Bird's), Claver Sor-
rell, Clover (cuckoo's, gowk's, or sour), Cuckoo
Bread or Bread and Cheese, Cuckoo-cheese,
Cuckoo-flower, Cuckoo-meat, Cuckoo Sonel,
Cuckoo-sour, Cuckoo-spice, Cuckoo's Victuals,
Grass (sour). Green Sauce, God A'mighty's
Bread and Cheese, Gowk Meat, Hallelujah,
Hare's Meat. Hearts, Lady Cakes, Lady's
Clover, Lady's Meat, Laverocks, Lujula,
Rabbit-meat, Shamrock, Sheep Sorrel, Sleep-
ing Beauty, Sleeping Clover, Sorrel, Sorrel
(French Wood). Sour Clover. Sour-sabs, Stab-
wort, Stob-wort, Stopwour, Stubwort, Trifoly
(sour), Woodsore, Woodsour, or Woodsower.
So much for the value of " popular " names!

Para Rubber : E.rcclsior. Owing to the greatly
increased demand at the present time for Rubber
for the making of tyres for motor vehicles the
rubber trade has developed very considerably.
Several limited liability companies have been
recently formed, and increased attention will
doubtless be given to every possible source of
Rubber, leading probably to considerable plant-
ing. At the same time, there are obvious risks
to be undertaken by anyone electing to go out
for the purpose of engaging in the cultivation
and tapping of the Rubber trees. You should
write to the advertisers to ascertain whether the
terms offered by them are sufficient compen-
sation for such risks.

Peach-shoots Diseased : C. B. E. The shoots
are affected by a fungus — Botrytis cinerea. See
answer to Cynirw in last week's issue, p. 192.

Potato : Horti. The botanical name for the Potato
and all its varieties is Solanum tuberosum.

Rhododendron. " Lady Alice Fitzwilliam " : •
y. Cairns, Worthy Hall Gardens, Sheffield. Yours
are excellent specimens of this fragrant green-
house Rhododendron. Your plants must be
growing very vigorously, and that they flower
freely the specimens before us rfford ample
proof. Many thanks.

Roots : Firs Lane. We cannot understand what
is meant by such an indefinite letter. What are
the crops you wish to cultivate for pr:ifit, and
have you had any experience in the work ?

Strawberry Plants Unhealthy : C. B. E. The
pale colour of the foliage is probably the result
of either an excess or of a deficiency of a particular
form of food stimulant in the soil. Give the
plants an application of clear soot water at the
roots at inter\'als of a few days.

Su jPENDED Baskets : T. S. We are surprised to
hear that Nephi'olepis will not succeed with you ;
the position must be draughty in the extreme.
However, such hardy plants as the Periwinkle,
of which a variegated form is very beautiful,
should grow well enough. We are not surprised
tli.it Begonias and Tradescantia failed, for they
are easily injured. Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums
stand much rough treatment, and nothing is
more beautiful for a suspended basket.

Vines : ] . McI. There is nothing in the speci-
mens received to indicate the cause of failure.
but even the rods themselves appear to be
dead. Being on the spot you may be able to
determine whether the trouble first arose above
ground or below the surface of the soil. Are
the roots alive and in good condition ?

Violets Failing: An.xious. The disease is the
work of a fungus that is perpetuated by
means of spores. These are very minute bodies
that lurk in the soil or in crevices of the frame.
It will not be advisable to grow Violets in the
same frame again until you have thoroughly
sterliscd both the soil and the woodwork of the
structure, using a weak solution of carbolic
acid for the purpose. Be careful also to burn
the old plants, and as you intend planting
afresh, it will be better to burn the entire old
stock. Violets are not fastidious plants in the
matter of soil, for they will succeed in most
kinds, providing it is well drained and cultivated.
They should not be given a hot. dry position in
summer, but will succeed well on a border
facing to the north. The plants require plenty
of moisture during the summer time, and the
side shoots should be removed in order to
secure the development of fine plump crowns.

Communications Received — Stellata (Next week)— G. A.
(Many thanks for photograph. The double-spathed
Richardia is a familiar visitor at this office)— W. M. (We
have handed your letter to our publisher) — H. F. McM. —
H. E. (Rev.)-J. H. v.— W. W.— F. M.-J. F. D.—
W. B. H.. Cork— John Booth, Berlin— E. de W., Brussels
—J. W.— 'W. B. H.. Kew— E. H. J. (many thanks, please
send us tlie article)-H. B.— W. B.— E. G. O.— Hortus—
A. H. W.— W. S.— T. O.— C. E. D.— E. R.— 'W. H. C—
II. ■«'. W.-\V. I. -J. \V. M.

Supplement lo the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

Debregeasia VELUTINA.
Fruits mulberry-like, of orange-yellow colour.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.C.

April 7, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

209

THE

#arbcncrs'Cbronicle

No. 1,006.SATURDAY, April 7, 7906.

CONTENTS.

Alpine garden—

Geum Eweiii

Books, notices of —
Botanical Magazine...

Kew Bulletin

Plants of New Zea-
land

Publications received

Wild Fauna and Flora

of Kew

Brussels Floral Society

Carbonate of lime in the
soil, the value of

Chinese conifers, two
new

Ccfrylopsis, the necta-
ries of...

Covent Garden Market

Cyaniding plants

Dendrobium Wigani-
anum, " Gatton Park
Variety "

Electricity, applied to
agriculture

Fernery, Ihe—

Spring treatment of
hardy Ferns

Finsbury Park , the plant-
house at

Foreign Correspondence-
Acacia podalyriaefolia
Protecting Crops from
spring frosts

Forestry —
Climate and tree
growth

Grape thinnings

Grapes for niiirket

Horticultural club for
India, a proposed ...

213

Hippeastrums, hardy 219, 220

Kew notes 210

Law note —
Alleged poisonous
seed

Natural selection of
plants

Nicotiana Sanderae in
Cape Colony

Obituary —
Beale, Dr. Lionel
Cooper, Lady Eliza-
beth

Windle. J

Orange-trees, renovating
sickly

Orchid hybrids ..

Orchid notes and glean-
ings

Orchids sold from
coloured drawings ...

Plant notes —
Browallia speciosa
major

Plants new or note-
worthy—
Picea morindoidcs ...

SeUvay, John, retire-
ment of

Societies —
Dutch Horticultural

and Botanical
Manchester and N. of
England Orchid ...
Nursery and Seed

Trade

Royal Horticultural 216, 221
Torquay District Gar-
deners* 224

Week's work, the ... 214, 215

219
220

214
218

224
224

211
216

211

217

214

218
216

223
223

223

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Abie<5 Delavayi, a newly introduced Silver Fir from

China 212

Abies Fargesii, a handsome Chinese Conifer, newly

introduced ■■■ 213

Apple tree in the open prepared for vaporising with hy-
drocyanic acid gas 220

Cyaniding plant houses, a simple apparatusfor 220

Dendrobium Wiganiaum " Gatton Park Variety " ... 219

Hyacinthus lineatus _ 210

Macodes javanica (Supplementary Illustration).

Picea morindoides 218

COVENT GARDEN MARKET.*

THE congestion, as regards early morning
traffic at this market, has furnished
some excuse to the railway companies
for the delay in the delivery of goods
which so often causes both loss and an-
noyance to sellers and buyers. It is needless to
say that the most has been made of the diffi-
culty in self defence, and salesmen do not hesi-
tate to say it has been grossly exaggerated. Still,
the fact remains that if wagons arrive late at
the market at the busiest time, when all avail-
able space is packed to the utmost limit, there
must be some delay, and it is to some extent
the same in leaving the market after the load
is discharged.

Two means are operating to reduce this
trouble, one being the extension of the days
and hours of business, and the other is
the increasing employment by large growers in
the metropolitan district of motors and tractors.
Considerable business is now transacted
upon what used to be considered the "off
days," i.e., Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, as
well as upon the regular market days, Tuesday,
Thursday, and Saturday. Further, though the
flower market is closed at 9 a.m., and a large
proportion of the trade in serving retailers takes
place before that hour, both with fruits and
vegetables, yet the business transacted through-

' See previous article on page 163.

out the day is much larger now than formerly.
One reason for this is that Covent Garden is
not merely a London market ; it really acts as
a great distributing central mart, and thousands
of tons of produce, especially fruits, are sold
there for despatch to provincial towns.

The employment of motors and tlactors for
market wagons is helping to reduce the crowd-
ing, and though the influence is not very evi-
dent at present, there can be little doubt it will
extend considerably in the near future. From
twenty to thirty of such substitutes for horse
labour may now be seen at times in the market
approaches, and by their means much heavier
loads are brought in more quickly. Two or three
examples will illustrate this — for instance,
Messrs. Lobjoit, of Heston, near Hounslow, send
three tractors to Covent Garden three days every
week, and one on the three other days, the load
averaging 5 tons. Mr. J. Rochford, of Turnford
Hall, Broxbourne, in a similar way usually sends
2 tons of produce a day in winter, rising to 15
tons a day in summer, chiefly Grapes, Tomatos,
and Cucumbers, from his 35 acres of glass
houses. He also states that the distance — 17
miles — can be covered in tH hours. Mr. George
Leonard, New Road, Shepperton, uses a Foden
steam wagon, which does the work of 6 or 7
horses, and can, when required, go to Covent
Garden and back, a distance of 38 miles, every
day. He states that he can send 200 bushels of
produce on the Foden and the same quantity
on a trailer wagon, a total of 400 bushels per
journey.

But if the business of Covent Garden con-
tinues to increase as it has done, some more
fundamental alterations will become absolutely
necessary. It has often been said that it is sur-
prising that the London County Council, with
its liberality in the expenditure of metropolitan
finances, has never included Covent Garden in
its sphere of operations. At the Board of Agri-
culture's Fruit Industry Committee, it was
stated : " We all recognise that it is a very
anomalous condition that perhaps the biggest
market in the world to be in private hands,"
and it was further remarked with unquestionable
authority that the Duke of Bedford " offers no
sort of opposition to the market passing into
the hands of a public authority." The purchase
price would no doubt be a high one, but one
could imagine an ideal market being created that
would be a substantial improvement upon the
present one. Like many other ideals, however,
perhaps the cost of the realisation would exceed
the gain, and at present there does not seem
the slightest prospect of its being attempted.
It is only fair to add that in the course of the
enquiry referred to, Mr. George Monro gave it
as his opinion that " the Duke has done more
for the market in bringing in surrounding pro-
perty for the use of the market than the County
Council or Corporation would have done."

The question of tolls has given rise to many
disputes and some bitterness, partly owing to
insufficient knowledge concerning them, and
partly owing to the fact that they are founded
upon antiquated legislation and regulations
quite out of date now. Under a dark arch near
the superintendent's office in the market will
be found a code of regulations painted upon
the wall, and dated August 20, 1828, but in the
long period that has elapsed since they were
drawn up, the alterations in method of business
and the nature of produce have been enormous.

As regards the chief fruits, it is there stated
that the toll to be paid is ^-d. per sieve or
bushel, and the bushel was then the common
measure. This is the rate still in force, though
within the past 20 or 30 years the tendency
has been to materially decrease the size of the
baskets or packages used. Half sieves and peck
baskets with handle baskets and boxes of
various sizes, mostly considerably under the
bushel as regards home-grown produce, have
come into general use, but the ^d. is still
charged per package. It has also been repre-
sented that the decreased value of produce due

to competition has also placed the grower at a
disadvantage, all of which is perfectly true, and
there certainly does appear to be a good case
for some modification.

At the same time there is another side to the
question when the better quality fruits are con-
sidered alon2 as the actual ad valorem percentage
is very small. This was well brought out at
the Fruit Industry Enquiry, where one wit-
ness complained somewhat strongly about the
' heavy tolls he had been charged on his Grapes.
After further questions and analysis, it appeared
that it only amounted to about 2 per cent, on the
value, which could hardly be counted a ruinous
imposition. In times of glut, or with low-priced
produce, the toll becomes much more serious,
and to meet the different conditions of the times
a reasonable modification might well be made.
In fact, it is not too much to expect that
after a lapse of over 70 years a new code of
regulations should be drawn up.

Upon one point there io much confusion, and
that is the charging of the tolls a second time
in the same market. But there is no question
whatever respecting its legality if a second sale
is effected within the market by the exposure or
"pitching " of the goods. The tolls can be col.
lected apparently as many times as that takes
place. It may be legal, but it certainly seems
to be inconsistent with equity, though no doubt
there is something to be said on the other side.
The trade of Covent Garden is conducted
mainly in four ways. First, the grower can
take his cart or wagon into the market and sell
direct, for which tolls are paid of from 4d. to
Is. 6d. per day, or yearly cart stands can be had
at the rate of Is. per square foot, per annum,
which works out at the rate of .£2,178 per acre,
not by any means an extravagant charge for
such valuable land, large though it may appear.
Secondly, a man can have a stand or stall and
sell his own or other people's produce, and the
same rate is charged as already mentioned,
namely. Is. per square foot, per annum, with 3d.
per foot extra if the stand is under cover. The
salesmen who do not hold auction-sales come
under this heading, but most of them rent
special premises either in or out of the market.
A large part of the business in Covent Garden
is transacted through salesmen to whom goods
are consigned by growers, who have no further
trouble in the matter as regards the collection
of accounts, etc. The salesman sends his
cheque after deducting his commission and the
market tolls, and all the grower has to do Is
to make sure he is dealing with a trustworthy
firm.

By the auction-sales, which are chiefly held
in the large Floral Hall, the greater part of the
imported fruits are distributed. Nine firms hold
sales there, generally on Mondays, Wednesdays,
or Fridays, and the amount of produce disposed
of is almost fabulous in amount. At special
seasons the business is enormous, and this is
especially so just before Christmas. 1 have
known two firms to sell by auction in one day
over 23,000 barrels, boxes, packages, or cases
of fruits. No fewer than 10,000 Pineapples have
been offered at one time, and 18,000 boxes of
Mandarine Oranges in two days' sales. These
sales give a better idea of the business done in
Covent Garden than any other part, and it can
be easily understood that when one salesman
alone claims with undoubted truth that he dis-
poses of some thousands of tons of fruit every
year, the total amount is practically incalcu-
lable.

The retail trade is small in comparison with
the other three methods, and is mainly con-
fined to the shops and stalls in the central
avenue, though the floral business transactec'- is
important.

In the central covered market, fruits, flowers,
and vegetables are sold, as well as from the cart
and wagon stands around it. Upon the south
side adjoining Southampton and Tavistock
Streets is a large space devoted mainly to vege-
tables, while above a portion of it has

210

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 7, 1906.

been erected the new foreign flower mar-
ket. The main flower market adjoins Tavi-
stock Street, and extends to Wellington Street,
•while the Floral Hall is on the north
side of the central market, or can be en-
tered from Bow Street. These details are for the
benefit of gardeners strange to London, as cer-
tainly no horticulturist visiting the metropolis
should fail to spend a few hours in Covent Gar-
den. A volume might be written about this
great mart, with which I have only been able
to deal imperfectly in these notes. JR. Lewis
Castle.

KEW NOTES.

CoRVLOpsis Griffithii (Hems.).

This hazel-like shrub is flowering on the west

side of the wall between the herbaceous ground

and the rockerj'. It is a new species, native of

Bhotan and the Khasia Mountains. Although

species. Two other species are in cultivation,
C. pauciflora and C. spicata ; both are natives
of Japan.

KeNNEDYA PROSTEATA VAR. MARRYATT.E.

For draping the roof or covering bare pillars
in greenhouses or conservatories, this Australian
evergreen, leguminous climber is a most useful
subject. It is readily propagated from seeds
or cuttings, and grows very fast. A plant in
No. 4 Greenhouse has flowered all through the
winter, and still has a good number of flowers
on it. Planted out in a bed of peat at the foot
of an iron pillar, the foliage completely hides
the pillar from view. If grown in pots and
trained round stakes or on a balloon, the plant
is also very effective.

The leaflets are three in number, covered with
down, as also are the stems. Flowers scarlet,
usually produced in clusters of four. The
plants produce seed-pods as freely as flowers.

Fig. 8i. — hvacinthus lineatus (syn. bhllevalia hhldreichii).

growing at elevations of 5,000 to 8,000 feet, it
requires the protection of a wall at Kew.

Seeds were forwarded to Kew from Calcutta
by Dr., now Sir George, King in 1879. Some-
times attaining the height of a small tree. Sir
Joseph Hooker records having seen specimens
20 feet in height. The subject of this note is
6 feet in height.

It is deciduous and flowers before the leaves
make their appearance. The leaves are broadly-
ovate, 5 to 6 inches in length, and nearly as
•wide, pale green above, pubescent beneath. The
numerous pale yellow flowers are borne on pen-
dulous racemes about 2 inches in length. The
scent is not unlike that of Co'wslips. The bracts
at the base of the raceme are of large size, and
very similar to the flowers in colour.

It is figured in the Bot. Mag., tab. 6779, as
C. Hiraalayana, but subsequent examination has
16d 'Mr. Hemsley to Inake the plant a new '

The species, K. prostrata, is figured in Bol.
Mag., t. 270, under the name of Glycine coc-
cinea. A. 0. March.

Hyacinihos lineatus.
Under the name of Bellevalia lycaonica Siehe,
bulbs were received in the autumn of 1904 from
Mr. W. Siehe, of Mersina, in Asia Minor. It is
now in flower in a cold house, growing in pans,
and is a charming little plant. It is about 5 inches
in height, with two or three leaves near the base
of the stem, each about 2 inches long. The
flowers are turquoise blue in colour, borne on
short pedicels and produced in heads of from ro to
20 in each. It is, howe,ver, not a new plant, but
is Hyacinthus lineatus, which was figured in the
Gaiddiers' Chronicle, 1901, XXXIX., p. 103. This
plant was first collected in 1845 by Heldreich in'
Adalia, grovving in chalky soil at an elevation of
3,250 feet. It was also collected in the Cilician

Taurus by Mrs. A. E. Danford in June, 1S7C.
Bulbs were first received at Kew in 1892, from
Mr, E. Whittall, of Smyrna, and it has been ic>
cultivation there ever since, proving quite hardy
on a warm border in somewhat sandy soil. The
flowers vary in colour, for amongst the batch is a
cream coloured form having purple stamens, a
most distinct variety. H. lineatus belongs to the
Bellevalia section of the genus, which also in-
cludes the well-known H. azureus, and was
described under the name of B. Heldreichii by
Boissier. It is more of a plant for the collector
than of general garden value

Erigenia eulbosa.
This interesting and rare little plant, which is
called in the United States the Harbinger of
Spring, is now in flower in the rock garden. It
is found ■wild in shady rich soil in the Eastern
States, and comes into flower in March and April.
The root is tuberous and produces a stem 3 to 6
inches high with a solitary leaf, bearing an umbel
of white flowers with dark purple anthers. IF. /.

EFFECT OF PLANT -GROWTH,
AND OF MANURES, UPON CARBO-
NATE OF LIME IN THE SOIL.

An interesting paper upon the changes which
take place in the amount of carbonate of lime
(chalk), which are brought about by natural
agencies, by manuring, and particularly by the
growth of plants, has been contributed to the
Koyal Society's Proceedings by Messrs. A. D.
Hail, M.A., and Dr. N. H. J. Miller, of the
Rothamsted Experiment Station.

Since Cavendish discovered that carbonate of
lime dissolves in rain-water charged with carbonic
acid, and ascertained the presence of bicarbonate
of lime in many natural waters, it has been re-
cognised that the carbonate of lime (chalk) present
in most soils must be subject to regular loss.

As the soils ' of the Rothamsted experimental
plots and the drainage waters collected from the
plots afford peculiar facilities for the study of
this important question, they have naturally
formed the foundation of the inv-'stig^tlons by
the authors. . , '..

The natural surface soil on the Rothamsted Estate,
and in Hertfordshire generally, contains little or
no carbonate of lime, but during the eighteenth
century and earlier very large quantities of chalk
were applied artificially until it formed 5 p^r cent,
or so of the surface soil. The method ad'opted
was to sink pits through the clay to the choilk,
which was then lifted and spread iii considerafcle
quantities. And the most experienced Hertford-
shire farmers agree that chalking of lands so
circumstanced is the best mode of culture they are
capable of receiving.

This carbonate of lime is being gradually disr
solved out by the rain water percolating through
the soil, and the loss will amount to about Soo lbs.
to 1,000 lbs. per acre per annum.

The' rate of loss is increased by the use of
sulphate of ammonia, and is diminished by the
use of nitrate of soda or organic debris like farm-
yard manure. ' . '

The normal growth of crops tends to restore a
certain amount of carbonate of lime and othdr
bases to the soil, because the plant in feeding upon
the neutral salts dissolved in the soil water takes
more of their acids than of their bases, leaving
behind a basic residue combined with carbonic
acid excreted from the plant roots. .

With ordinary agricultural and horticultura.'
crops the restoration of bases must be consider-
able, probably supplying sufficient base for the
nitrification process which is always going oh.
This explains why many soils containing little or
no carbonate of lime (chalk) remain healthy undei*
ordinary cultivation, provided that acid manures

April

1900.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

211

like sulphate of ammonia or superphosphate
(especially the lower grades) are not used on them.

These researches also explain one or two other
pjints which have been observed in connection
witli the use of nitrate of soda as a manure.

It has long been noticed that the continued use
of nitrate of soda is very destructive to the texture
of a clay soil, intensifying all the clay properties,
rendering the soil persistently unworkable when
wet, and forming hard and intractable clods when
dry. The ultimate cause of such an effect is the
" deflocculation " of the fine particles composing
the soil ; they ar6 no longer bound together in
loose aggregates, but are separated so as to give
the soil its most finely grained character. The
deflocculation is much diminished where super-
phosphate (an acid manure) is used in conjunction
with the nitrate of soda. /. /. Willis, Harpenden.

THE FERNERY.

SPRING TREATMENT OF HARDY FERNS.

As the early spring is undoubtedly the
most favourable time for dealing with hardy
Ferns, either in the way of forming new
rockeries or beds for their accommodation or
for repotting or re-planting and general over-
hauling, no time should now be lost before do-
ing what is required. Later on, when growth
has definitely commenced, and the new fronds
are rising, not only are these very apt to get
damaged by the handling, but the roots have
so much to do in keeping them going that any
damage to them in the operations is likely to
constitute a serious check. It is therefore ob-
vious that the best time to deal with Ferns is
while the young fronds are still snugly en-
sconced in the growing centres well out of the
way of damage, while the long winter rest has
endowed the roots with their maximum of
vigour, so that a little damage to them is soon
repaired. To those who have so-called hardy
Ferneries in their gardens, consisting solely of
those common forms, the Male Fern, Broad
Buckler Fern, Hartstongue, Lady l-'ern, and
Ferns such as are hawked about at a penny
a root by costerraongers, we should say
turn them out, at any rate from prominent
situations, and replace them by a collection of
the infinitely more beautiful varieties which the
Fern connoisseur alone cultivates. These are
absolutely as hardy as the others, since they
are merely variants of the same species, and
good representative collections can be obtained
very cheaj^ly from dealers who trade in the.se
plants. .No one who has ever seen a
collccticSn of these forms would ever revert to
tho commorj ones, so great is their variety. For
instance, the common Hartstongue has spotted
into several hundred distinct forms, frilled, tas-
selled, fringed, and so on, and surely it is
more ' interesting to walk round a rockery in
which every plant presents some fresh features
than to fill that rockery for the sake of a few
shillings with scores of the same kind which
can be seen by the thousand in our western
hedgerows. A man might as well construct a
rockery and fill it with stonecrop and houseleek.

With this exordium we will now consider
how to treat the Ferns as a whole. As
a rule, good garden soil fits them all,
but, like other jjlants, they have their
predilections, and a good leafy or peaty
compost, half loam and half leaf or peat raoula
will induce a Fern's growth. In rockeries, there-
fore, although the mound may be built up of
ordinary soil, it pays to make pockets or sta-
tions for the Ferns with the compost indicated.
Due great point in successful culture, that is,
culture in which the specimens are developed to
the best advantage, is the confinement, as far as
possible, to single crowns of all such Ferns as
grow shuttlecock fa.'ihion with their fronds ar-
ranged in a circle as in the Buckler Ferns, Shield
Ferns, and Lady Ferns. All these have a ten-
i^ency in course of time to form more or less

dense clumps by means of sidebuds or offsets,
and in such cases it is advisable to fork up the
entire plant and pull away these offsets, leaving
the central one and replanting this in situ.
Each of the offsets will come away with
its own bunch of roots, and should be
planted separately. The result will be the
production of much larger individuals, and
their varietal charm vi^ill come out all
the more markedly, owing to their more ro-
bust growth. The other class of Ferns which,
like the well-known Haresfoot Fern (Davalli,i
canariensis), have creeping root-stocks, to
which category belong our several species of
Polypods, are best left undisturbed, as by their
travelling nature they find fresh soil for them-
selves, and, given an annual mulching of leaf-
mould, they thrive for years without deteriora-
tion. Ferns in pots should be overhauled and
divided on the same principle. If out of con-
dition, they should be turned out, all dead roots
pulled away, and dead matter removed, and the
plants reinstalled in pots just capable of ac-
commodating them comfortably, while, if
merely pot-bound, they can be dropped intact
into pots a size larger, and the space
carefully filled up with leafy compost as
specified, damaging the roots as little as pos-
sible in the process. In doing this a good look,
out should be kept for weevil grubs, wireworms,
ordinary worms, or other vermin, as these are
often the cause of weak growth. Ferns, though
thriving in moist conditions, cannot grow well
in saturated, soured soil, and in serious cases
it is well to wash this out, entirely removing the
dead roots, and potting in fresh soil in smaller
pots. In making new rockeries or beds for
Ferns, a north aspect should be chosen, in-
volving, as far as practicable, shade from
hot sun and protection from strong winds.
The immediate vicinity of trees is, how.
ever, to be avoided, as top light is essential,
.'ind the tree roots, moreover, are too apt
to draw upon the subsoil unduly, and thus
starve the Ferns. Clias. T. Drutry, V.MM.,
F.LS.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

CATTLEYA TRIAN.^E, "WILLIAM B.\SS."
A VERY beautiful form of Cattleya Trianae has
been sent by Mr. Richard Nisbet, gr. to W. A. H.
Bass, Esq., Byrkley, Burton-on-Trent. All the
segments are broad, and especially the petals,
which are three and a-half inches long and three
inches wide. The sepals and petals are silvery-
white, with a delicate flush of rosy-lilac colour.
The broad lip is white at the base with a similar
rosy-lilac tint to that of the petals, the broad
frilled front being of purplish crimson with a
lavender margin. From the base of the lip a
broad orange-coloured line extends to the middle,
where if diverges to each side. Cattleya Trianae
varies considerably, but few forms are comparable
to the one sent.

CATTLEY.\ SCHRODER.^, &c., AT
GLEBELANDS.
The beauty of this delicately-tinted and fragrant
Cattleya is shown at its best in the collection of J.
Gurney Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South Wood-
ford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), where the front staging in
one of the houses is furnished with plants of it in
bloom, some of the specimens having from
10 to i8 flowers. The prevailing tint is that of
peach-blossom with different shades of orange
on the disc of the lip. The most marked varia-
tions are C. Schrodera: alba, w-ith pure white
flowers with pale orange in the throat of
the labellum ; Fowler's variety, a very hand-
some form with large rosy-lilac tinted flowers,
the disc of the lip being of a peculiar yellowish-
orange tint, a line of the same colour extending
down the lateral sepals ; and several varieties of
the same class as "Pitt's variety," with ruby-

purple front to the labellum. The plants have
been in the care of Mr. Davis for upwards of
three years, and each year they have gained in
vigour and in the number of flowers produced.
A batch of Dendrobium thyrsiflorum, each with
five or six spikes ; some showy Laelio-Cattleyas in
bud ; some good white Cattleyas, including a fine
C, Mossiae Reineckiana with seven flower-sheaths ;
a fine lot of Odontoglossums and other good things
promise a continuance of flower. Two of the
best examples of good cultivation in the collection
are represented by a healthy mass of the original
importation of Eulophiella Elisabethre. sending
up spikes, and a vigorous plant of Eulophiella
Peetersiana.

CYPRIPEDIUM MRS. A. W. SUTTON.
Originally this pretty hybrid between C.
niveum and C. Chamberlainianum was raised and
flowered by A. W. Sutton, Esq., Bucklebury, Wool-
hampton (gr. Mr. Wright), who showed it at the
Royal Horticultural Society's meeting on Janu-
ary 14, igo2. More recently it was raised by Sir
Chas. W. Strickland, Bart., Hildenley, Malton,
Yorkshire, who now sends a flower of a very fine
variety. The expanded petals are three and a
half inches in length, and the depth from the tip
of the dorsal sepal to the point of the lip is the
same. The dorsal sepal is greenish-white in the
middle, white at the margin, and bears ten purple
lines of varying length. The petals, which are
half an inch at the widest point, are white tinted
with rose-colour, and bear six dotted purple lines.
Lip white, with slight rose flush and veining.
Staminode white with a large green and purple
blotch.

THE RESTORATION OF SICKLY
ORANGE TREES.

Although at the present day but few private
gardens boast of extensive collections of the
genus Citrus, such small members as Manda-
rine, Tangierine, and Myrtle-leaved may be found
as inmates in many greehouses, but, as
Compared with other decorative plants in vogue,
they are held by their owners as of small value.
Still, when they are cultivated intelligently,
afforded the right kind of soil, and placed in
full sunlight at all seasons of the year, the plants
will blossom abundantly, and bear fruit freely.
It is rarely one sees perfectly healthy specimens
of these plants of a large size, a fact that is
generally due to the deterioration of the soil,
and to the plants being kept the whole year
under glass, and thus deprived in great measure
of the ameliorating influence of light and air.
The large masses of soil contained in the tubs
and borders become incapable of inducing
healthy growth, the foliage turns pale in colour
and thin in substance, and in consequence, per-
haps, of an inadequate staff of workmen for
such heav3' operations as re-tubbing and trans-
planting the trees, temporary measures, which
do not go to the root of the mischief, are
adopted. In such cases only radical operations
are of any permanent effect in restoring the
health of the trees. It may be of interest to
d<-'scribe the method I adopted in restoring to
health a large number of ancient Orange trees
in a garden belonging to a nobleman in Austria.
These were the sorry remnants of a collection
numbering one hundred and fifty trees, mostly
of edible varieties. Such an extensive collection
required a special staff of workmen to attend to
the needs of the trees, no small matter when
the tubs in which they were grown measured
3 to 4 feet in diameter and 2i- to 3 feet high.
These were the average measurements when the
collection came under my charge, and had
been so for many years previously. Little had
been done in affording fresh soil, usually no-
thing beyond a surfacing annually, till a tub
fell to pieces from decay. The appearance

212

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 7, 1906.

of the heads, the many dead and dying shoots,
and the pale-green tint of the leaves indicated a
spent and soured state of the soil. Au.e.xamina-
tion ino»e than confirmed this. 1 found the
lower stratum of soil dark coloured, almost
black, stinking, and saturated with moisture,
and containing scarcely any roots and no feed-
ing rootlets whatever, these having died long
before. A new compost was mixed, crocl>3 were
collected and washed clean, and fresh, tough
sods were carted in for covering the latter.
Many new oaken tubs were obtained from the
estate sawmills, and these were punctured with
several openings at the bottom, about'. 1 foot
apart, and usually of a square form, these be-
ing readily notched out at the 'edges of the
boards with an axe or saw.

The conservatory, 100 yards in length and 30
feet in width, being cleared of the mixed collec-
tion of hardwood plants, an operation that lasted
for about a month in May and June, the work of
re-tubbing was begun. To lift such heavy mass
of soil and tree as those contained in such large
tubs, an oaken lever, fitted with an iron fork
at the thick end so as to clasp the tree,
the latter being enveloped close to the soil with
a mass of soft material, in order to avoid the
bruising of the bark, was brought into use, and
being afforded a movable fulcrum of about 6
feet in height, it could, by means of a thick
iron bolt, be fixed at any desi»ed height, the ful-
crum being first pushed up close to the tub.

The forked end of the lever being lowered to
the bottom of the bole and made fast with soft
cordage, half a dozen men hauled on a stout
piece of rope fixed to the thin — the free end — of
the 15-foot lever. By this simple machine a
mass of soil weighing 1 to 2 tons was readily
hoisted, and held suspended whilst the spent soil
was extracted from all parts of the ball, except-
ing the uppermost portion where the soil was in
a better state than at the lower. Having per-
formed this portion of the work, the removal of
all decayed roots was undertaken, and the rest
of the ball and roots was freed from soil by
means of clean water and a force pump. The
next operation was re-tubbing in a receptacle
just capable of holding the now much seduced
ball, filling in all the spaces among the roots,
consolidating the soil thus applied with blunt
rammers, and not co\>ering the old ball with
new soil more than to the depth of 1 inch.
The thickness of crocks and turf covering would
average 6 inches, more in the case of the larger
tubs and le.ss in smaller one.

The compost employed consisted of two-thirds
one to two-years-old woodland pasture turf,
heath soil, partly decayed, one-third, and almost
as much clean pit sand. No leafmould or nitro-
genous manure, or any substance which would
tend to the souring of the soil, was mixed with
it, manure in liquid form being preferred
when a stimulant was wanted, at the time when
returning vigour in the trees seemed to indicate
the need for applying it. Having finished the re-
tubbing of the trees, they were placed on the north
side of the conservatory, the glass being shaded
in sunny weather with reed mats, and the trees
afforded as much water as moistened the entire
mass of soil in each tub, no more being applied
-for a month. Meantime quantities' of tree leaves
and stable litter were thrown into great heaps to
ferment, and dissipate the ammoniacal fumes,
and this having been accomplished, the Orange
trees, after a moderate cutting-back of the main
shoots, were taken to the reserve garden, placed
about 3 feet apart on bricks standing on the
gravel, and the hot-bed materials packed closely
between them, and, to allow for sinking, a foot
or more higher than the rims of the tubs.

Syringing of the foliage lightly night and
morning was carried out till the end of the ■
montb cf August, at which time the autumn
dews sufficed to take its place. The heat of
the sun and the bottom heat from the bed
began early to tell on the growth, which, as the
weeks went by, became quite satisfactory in
length and tint, and the succeeding floral harvest

was a good one. So many of the branches had
died in itecent years, leaving gaps in the general
spherical form of the crowns, that two years
elapsed ere these were filled with new growths.
Many were the scJiaden freiidc (malicious) predic-
tions of my neighbours, and the estate officials,
regarding what was an unheard-of experiment in
Orange culture, but which was so successful as
to comnjand, at length, their full approval of the
njethods pursued. I need scarcely say how de-
lighted my employer was at the unhoped-for
recovery of these fine old trees. That is now
30 years ago, and by reason of the total sever-
ance of my connection with Austrian horticul-
ture and interests, I am unable to say anything
about the present condition of these trees. F. M.

of the leaf. The cones are of a deep plum colour,
cylindric, oblong truncate, 6-7 cent, long, the
bracts broadly oblong, spatulate, ending abruptly
in a short point or acumen which projects beyond
the scale. The scales are wedge-shaped at the
base, somewhat rounded, and subentire on the
upper border, seeds winged.

ABIES FARGESII*
This is, according to Mr. Wilson, the common
Silver Fir of Central and Western China. It never
occurs below 6,000 feet, and ascends to 11,500
feet, forming entire forests. From A. Delavayi
it differs in the leaves, which are very white on
the under surface, nearly flat, though sometimes

l-IG. 82. — ABIES DEL.WAYI, FRANCHET.

Branch denuded of leaves bearing three deep purple cones. The details show the outer surface of a,

cone-scale with the bract, the inner surface with two winged seeds, detached seeds, leaves showing the

variation in size and the very marked rolling back of the margins.

CHINESE CONIFERS.

ABIES DELAVAYI.'
Among Mr. Wilson's specimens are two Silver
firs so much alike that at first sight they might
readily be confounded one with the other. The
one which, after a comparison with Franchet's
original types, obligingly lent for the purpose
by the authorities of the Paris Museum, we
find, is the A. Delavayi, is numbered 3022 A,
and is described by Wilson as a tree 20-50 feet
in heiglit, and as growing on Wa Shan at an
altitude of 9,000-11,000 feet. Father Delavay
found it at the summit of Tsang Chan at an
altitude of 3,500-4.000 metres, and Faber on the
summit of Omei. It is remarkable for the manner
in which the leaves are rolled back at the margins,
so that on transverse section they resemble the
figure CO . The resin canals are in the substance

* Abies Delavayi, Francliet in Joiiiit. dc Botamqric, torn,
.\iii. (1899), p. 255.

rolled back on the under surface as in that speciesv
The resin canals are sub-epidermal in the extreme
corners of the leaf. The cones are deep purple in
colour, as in Delavayi, but differ in form, being
barrel-shaped. The bracts are also narrow, not
broad at the base, spatulate, with a short acumen
whichdoesnot project beyond Isie scales. Thecone-
scales ^re broad at the base (not wedge-shaped and
the upper border is rounded [description and
figure (see p. 213) from Wilson, n, 3,022]. The
timber, though largely used for building purposes,
is soft and of little value. It is the Lien Sha, or
Pao Sha, of the Chinese. Mr. Wilson adds that
it is certainly one of the handsomest of Chinese
Conifers, and that he has seen specimens of it
nearly 200 feet in height and 25 feet in girth. We
are glad to learn that it, as well as A. Delavayi,
is growing in Messrs. James Veitch & Sons' nur-
sery at Coombe Wood. Maxwell T. Masters.

* Abies Fargesii, Franchet, \nJourn. dc Botnuique, torn, siii
1899), p. 26s.

Aprii. 7, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

213

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

ACACIA PODALYRIAEFOLIA.

One of the finest and most ornamental Acacias
introduced into our gardens is A. podalyriaefolia.
It flowers in mid-winter, during the dullest days of
December, and in the early spring.

It first appeared in a horticultural establishment
on the Lago Maggiore about 1S95-96. I received
as far back as December, 1897. a flowering branch
of the original plants, with a request to name it.
Although I had no herbarium specimens with which
to compare it, I felt certain that it was A. podalyriae-
folia. It was put into commerce under various
names. The owner of the original stock, Signor
Motta, at Intra, first offered it in his catalogue as
Acacia Motteana, and subsequently it was figured

Botanic Gardens at Kew, and Sir William
Thiselton-Dyer confirmed the correctness of my
determination from the specimens in the Royal
Herbarium.

This Acacia is very particular as to soil. It
dislikes our calcareous earth. The only way to
keep it, and many other of its congeners — for in-
stance, the common A. dealbata — in good con-
dition is to plant grafted specimens only. Aiiciii
Berger, La Mortolci-VeiitimigUa, Italy.

SPRING FROSTS.
Apropos of Mr. O. Thomas's article about the
protection of fruit tree blossom from spring frosts
I should like to call your attention to a couple
of articles in Swedish journals treating of the
same subject, viz., Prof. Hagbom in Sv. Mosslml-
turforen Tidskrijt, p. 112, March, 1905, and one

drainage than is done at present, be it natural, by
digging, or cutting through hedges or plantations,
or by artificial pumping or heating of the descend-
ing cold air ; the height of this is often only a few
feet, the required heat or force is next to nothing ;
but the idea is new, at least as to drainage and
taking advantage of the descending power of cold
air, and it will take some time before engineering
science will give us pumps, mills, and stoves for
this purpose ; but I suppose an appeal in England
would be of more effect than the one I have made here
Of course, all this relates to frost during still
dear nights ; to do anything when the wind is blow-
ing (as Mr. Thomas speaks about) is out of the
question altogether, but it is very seldom we have
frosts then, in this country, at least. M. P,
Andersen, Jonhofiitg, Sweden.

DACK

Fig. 83. — ABIES FARGESII, FRANCHET.
To the left, a young cone, a leaf and leaf-section, both magnified; in the centre, a branch with a deep purple cone; to the right, portions of branches showing
the leaf-scars and bud-scales ; at the bottom to the left, out?r surface of cone-scale with bract, inner surface of scale with wmged seeds, detached seeds ; and, to

the extreme right, cluster of male flowers.

and described in the Bulletino d'Orticoltiira di Firenzc
as A. celastrifolia. But, in spite of all this, the
plant did not find favour. Fortunately a few
plants came eventually into the hands of Herr
Ludwig Winter, at Bordighera, who at once re-
cognised the merits of this fine Acacia. He has
now a hillside planted with it, and is exporting its
flowers in great quantity.

The plant much resembles the old A. cultri-
formis, but is larger and more vigorous. The
leaves are less angular, somewhat larger ; and,
besides, the whole plant is densely covered with
fine, velvety hairs. The plant has a fine bluish
hue. It is extremely floriferous; the round
flower-heads are of a rich yellow colour, and
have a delicate and very agreeable perfume. Mr.
Winter sold or gave the plant to the Royal

of my own in Tradgardcii, March, 1906, p. 41. I
shall try to get copies of these sent to you, hoping
you will be able to get them translated. If it
were not spring and I a busy tradesman, I should
have sent you a summary myself, as I have taken
great interest in the problem this winter.

For some years we ha\e had a rather consider-
able Government subvention for diminishing night-
frosts on low-lying land by means of draining,
and it is the general opinion that this money
was well spent. Prof. Hagbom uses very strong
arguments to show that draining off the water
is of no use ; what is wanted is ths draining off of
the cold air. and of preventing radiation by smoke
or mist. My article deals with the problem in
this light, and from the gardener's standpoint. I
am sure that much more could be done by air

FORESTRY.

CLIMATE AND TREE GROWTH.
While mentioning Bicton and Dropmore,
and seeing that Mr. Forbes, and perhaps some
other readers of my article, have been led to the
view that I had in my mind only a mild climate
in England, I withdraw these two names, as I only
wanted to point out in a general way the great differ-
ence between the English and the German climate ;
so I state that you will never find, anywhere,
especially in North Germany, Taxodium semper-
virens, Araucaria imbricata, Cedrtis Deodara, &c.,
although you will find them in sheltered or un-
sheltered positions in the south, north, west and
even in the east of England, hV never ••■\ North
Germany.

214

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Al'iJii.

ieo6.

I have read again my articles on tlie Locust
tree, and I asls Mr, Forbes where I said that
the Locust tree was superior to the Britisli Oak
for forest-planting ? I merely stated, according to
areport of aRoyal Inspector of coal-mines, that the
pit-props made of Locust lasted longer than those
of the Oak for carpenters' work in a coal-mine. I
never said a word in the general way that Mr. Forbes
assumes. Cobbett, in estimating the value of the
Locust lung ago very highly, is supported now-
a-days by a scientific man (see Giuciiners' Chfonide,
December 23, 1905), and by others (December 2,
1905). Mr. Forbes asks me where I made my
studies of tree-growth in Britain, and he seems not
to think much of them ? I think anybody who has
been for the last thirty years a very interested
member of the Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society
ought to know something about tree-growth in
Britain. And as to the scientific side of the
question, I may say that a long time has elapsed
since I was, on several occasions, at Kew, when
my valuable friend. Sir Joseph D. Hooker,
formed his new arboretum, and I had the honour
to send a good many species from my collections
to complete it. But I have been not only in this
southern part of England, for I have also seen and
studied the trees at Scone Palace (McCorquodale),
at Dunkeld (McLaren), and last, not least, at
Murthly Castle, Perthshire, the grandest place for
exotic Conifers I have ever seen. John Booth,
Corresponding Member of the Royal Horticultural
Society: Beilin, March 26. 190r>.

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

GEUM EWENI.
This bright and pretty Avens is among the
most constant blooming plants in my garden.
In a sunny position it opened a few flowers even
through the greater part of December, January,
and February, and just when a spell of very
hard frost came in about March 9 or 10, it was
coming into what one may call free bloom. I
have had it in my possession since March, 1903,
and its free flowering at the present time is a
sign that it has not at least deteriorated in con-
stitution since that time. I understand that it is
said to be a hybrid between G. Heldreichi and
G. miniatum, but to me it looks practically a
semi-double form of G. Heldreichi, not quite S(j
deep in colour as G. Heldreichi superbum, but
still of a fine bright shade of orange-scarlet,
always a welcome colour in the garden, but
especially acceptable in winter and early spring.
It is perfectly hardy, and forms a capital border
plant, or it may be cultivated on the lower ter-
races of large rock-work. In summer its stems
are from a foot to a foot and a half high, but
the winter flowers are produced on very short
stems. It is cultivated here in ordinary loam
on a sunny border, which faces to the south-
west. S. .'\rnotl, Siinnymead, Dumfries.

PLANT NOTES.

13K(J\VALLIA SPECIOSA MAJOR.

This Browallia has decided attractions over its
congeners, chiefly on account of its more ro-
bust habit, and its larger blue flowers which
are produced in great profusion. When massed
by themselves, and upon different planes to
form a bank in the greenhouse, the whole pre-
senting one mass of violet-blue flowers, amidst
a setting of deep green, shining foliage, the
effect is excellent indeed.

The cultural requirements are of the most
simple character, and cuttings inserted in
March form roots readily. The plants are
also easily raised from seeds, a method of
propagation I prefer, as the seedlings grow with
greater freedom and are not so addicted to
flower during their early period of growth as
those raised from cuttings. It is essential,
whichever method of propagation be followed,
to pinch the tips of the young growths several
times during the plant's development in order to
promote a bushy, instead of a scandent growth.

After judiciously hardening the plants, they
should be finally potted into 5 or 6-inch pots,
using ordinary but fairly rich soil of sufficient
porosity to permit free percolation of water.
A cold frame will suit their requirements
throughout the summer months. Copious
syringings of clear water should be afforded in
order to keep down red spider, to which pest
the plants are very liable. Applications of
diluted soot water and of farmyard liquid
manure afforded with discretion are of great
benefit, and are conducive to healthy growth.
During September the plants should be given
a favourable position in the greenhouse.
They are useful for decorative work alike in
the drawing-room or in the conservatory, where
they will remain for a considerable time in good
condition in common with other plants of their
class. When used for decorative purposes, and
in circumstances which do not permit of their
being changed for a lengthened period, they
may become somewhat thin and leggy through
loss of foliage. However, they soon recover
if placed in a warm atmosphere, but the
growths should be shortened a few inches, and
by the following spring they will again form
useful and serviceable plants. F. W. Gooc/i.

COLONBAL NOTE.

NICOTl.VNA SANDER.^ IN PORT
ELIZABETH.
Following the interesting note on this plant as
grown in Canada, which appeared in the issue of the
Gardeners' Chronicle for January 3, 1 may say that it is
much appreciated also in Cape Colony. During the
heitof the day, no matter whether the atmosphere is
moist or dry, the flowers invariably close and droop,
and the whole plant seems to be very sad, but as
evening draws near the plants rapidly recover and
make a display unequalled for vivid colouring by
any other plant of like proportions, and again in
the early morning the plant is at its best. The
early morning and evening hours are pleasantest
during the summer-time, and then it is we
desire the beauty of the garden in full : and in
N. Sandera? we are not disappointed. I prefer to
have the plant dotted about the flower borders,
giving the brilliant colouring a chance to mingle
and contrast with that of other subjects. The
plant rapidly recovers itself after the heat of the
day, which of late has been between 90'' and 100"
in the shade. It withstands drought admirably,
and it is almost unharmed by the severest gale of
wind. Harry Rabjohn, gr. to J. A. Chabaud, Esq.,
March 5.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orcliid Grower to Sir Trlvor Lawrekce,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Calanihes. — Some varieties of the C. Reg-
nieri section as C. Stevensi, C. Sanderiana, C
Turnerii, C. T. nivalis, tkc, are now in bloom,
but very soon after they have done flowering
the plants will recommence to grow, when they
may be repotted as advised in my last Calendar
for the C. vestita group. All plants of the de-
ciduous Calanthes that are bearing seed pods
should be stood in a sunny position to mature
and ripen the seed. When these seed vessels
are ripe and appear to be bursting, let a piece
of tissue paper be wrapped loosely around
them, tied firmly at the base to prevent loss of
seed. Allow the pods to remain until the old
flower stems commence to die down. By that
time some of the plants that were potted first
will have made a considerable number of roots,
and the seed should be sown on the best rooted
plants. If more convenient, 4-inch pots may
be used for the purpose instead, filling them
to within 1 inch of the rim with crocks and
packing about ^-inch deep of Calanthe compost
firmly on the surface. After the seed is sown
very great care in watering will be necessary ;
that sown on the potted plants should be
sprayed over whenever the surface of the com-
post appears in the least dry, but the seed

sown in special small pots can be best moist-
ened by dipping the pots in water, about once
a week, up to the surface of the crocks. When
the seedlings appear, let them be afforded all
the care possible, but do not disturb them un-
til the following spring. Last year's seedlings
may be potted off at the present time. Place
five or six of them around the edge of 3-inch
pots, using similar material to that employed
for the older plants. Suspend them in a rather
shady position, but well up to the roof glass of
the house.

Habenarias. — Habenaria pusilla (militaris),
H. carnea, H. c. nivosa, and II. Susannas
are now starting to grow, and the tubers
should be turned out of their pots, carefully
removing all the old soil. Repot the tubers
singly in long thumb pots. Place a fe\v crocks
at the bottom of each pot, and rest the base of
the tuber upon these ; the top of the bulb will
then be just below the rim. Fill up around
the tuber with clean crocks to within I inch or
Li" inches of the rim over the crocks, place a
little dry sphagnum-moss, and fill the remain-
ing space w-ith the following compost, just
covering the top of the tuber so that the point
of the new growth will peep through the sur-
face of the soil: — One-half fibrous peat and
loam and the other half finely-chopped sphag-
num-moss, adding some finely broken crocks,
and a little coarse silver sand, the whole beirg
well mixed together. After these Habenarias have
been repotted place them in a moist atmos-
phere on the shady side of the warmest house,
and let them be within a foot of the roof glass,
for if placed low down upon the ordinary stage
away from the glass, the stems would become
drawn and the flower spikes weak. Spray the
plants lightly overhead whenever the compost
appears to be dry, but later, when in full
growth, they will require an abundance of
water. .Shade them from direct sunshine all
through the growing period, and well syringe
the under sides of the leaves. Our plants of II.
rhodorheila have just passed out of bloom, and
the foliage is gradually decaying. The plants
have been removed from the warm house and
are now in a moderately dry atmosphere of in-
termediate temperature, and are well exposed
to the sun. Limited quantities of water should
be afforded the plants until the stem and foli-
age disappear, after which time the soil should
be moderately sprinkled over about once a
week to keep the tubers in a plump condition
while they are dormant.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, -Mlerton, Liverpool.

Polling. — In potting stove and greenhouse
plants, forethought and study must be brought
to bear on the subject. If the plant to be potted
is but just rooted, it is essential that its require-
ments be as carefully considered as though it
were a specimen plant. Failures in successful
plant-growing are olten traceable to imperfect
drainage. In the culture of hard-wooded stove
and greenhouse plants, one of the principal aids
to success is firm potting. The result of careless
or loose potting, especially with stove or green-
house climbers, is that the roots become long
and fibreless, and instead of the plant develop-
ing short, firm, consolidated growth, a lot of
useless elongated shoots result, which never
become sufficiently ripened to produce satis-
factory crops of flowers. Close-matted, fibrous
roots are produced only in firm soil. Heaths,
.'\zaleas, Ixoras, Codiaeums (Crotons), and other
hard-wooded plants all require firm potting, and
this also enables the plants to be kept in a
healthy condition in much smaller pots for
a greater length of time than when , potted
loosely.

Rose Houre. — Established Rose trees in borders
will now be growing freely. A good soaking of
tepid manure water will be found beneficial to
the plants. Syringe freely with clear water once
or twice daily, according to the conditions of
the outside atmosphere. A slight fumigation
once a week will keep down attacks of /reen-
fly. Plants growing in pots should al.(o be
assisted with liquid manure. A fresh batch
of Roses should be brought in to heat to furnish
a succession, and Roses will be found use-
ful now that forced plants generally are
passing out of flower. The night temperature
should be 45° to 50", with a proportionate rise
by day, giving ventilation on all favourable
occasions, but avoiding cold draughts. <

April 7, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

215

General Hemarks. — Pay timely attention to the
matter of stopping Chrysanthemums. The
growths of Salvia splendens grandiflora should
be pinched from now onward to the end of
July, to secure strong, bushy plants. Mar-
guerites should be carefully watched for the
leaf-mining grub ; fumigation with XL-com-
pound or an occasional spraying with some
liquid insecticide proves an excellent remedy
against this troublesome pest. Herbaceous
Calceolarias and large-flowered varieties of
Pelargoniums should receive alternate appli-
cations of weak manure water and soot water
once or twice each week. Stake these plants as
may be necessary, but do not use more supports
than are really essential.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNsnAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamiliun, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfoidsliire.

diaries. — There is not very much difference
between the requirements of trees in pots and
of those growing in borJers. The atmospheric
temperature at night must still be maintained as
low as jO deg. by artificial heat until the sioning
period is pasied. The heat generated during the
day by sunshine may also be reducid by auord-
ing ample ventilation whenever the condition
of the weather will permit of this being done.
Open the ventilators very early in the day,
and close them late in the afternoon. Syringe
the trees twice each day in fine weather. On
the first appearance of Aphis, let tome approved
insecticide be applied or fumigate the house
with the XL-All Vaporiser. V\ hen the fruit
commences to tiwell ; gain after the formation of
the " stones," pinch the young shoots at the
second or third leaf, except such as will be re-
quired for bearing next season, and for the ex-
tension of the trees. Afford water freely to the
roots whenever this is necessary, sub-titutmg
occasionally for the clear water some diluted
liquid manure.

Thinning Grapes. — Vines in the earlier houses
will now claim attention, in respect to the
thinning of the fruits. Different varieties will
need to bo treated with due consideration for
their peculiar characteristics. Those that '' set ''
freely may be taken in hand at once, but such
varieties as Muscat of Alexandria, Muscat Ham-
bro, Alnwick Seedling, and others may be al-
lowed to wait a little longer time before thinning
takes place. To obtain a properly shaped bunch
of grapes, thinning out should be commenced at
the bottom of the bunch, and continued up-
wards, leaving the centre of the bunch well open
so as to admit air and light. The "shoulders'"
of the bunch .'hould not be thinned very severely
or they will become loose, and suffer in effect
when offered for dessert. The pollination of
shy setting varieties may be assisted by drawing
the palm of the hand down each bunch daily,
and if Black Ilamburghs are in bloom at the
same time, it will be wise to transfer some of
the pollen from them to those that usually pro-
duce less pollen. Cont-nue to obtain a free cir.
culation of air, and maintain considerable at-
mospheric moisture on bright days.

Alid-season Vines. — These are making good pro.
gress towards the flowering stage, and it can be
seen at a glance which bunches are going to
take the lead. Those which are placed the
best should be retained, and the others cut
away. All stopping should be cone in advance
of the flowering period. Weakly vines should
be allowed to make a little more lateral growth
than others, and must only be cropped lightly.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to tlie Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

A Border of Pink Flowers. — A very charming
effect can be obtained where means are at one's
disposal, by devoting borders to one particular
colour of flower. For instance, in gardens
where there are numerous borders, one n'ight
easily be reserved for flowers of pink and rose
shades, another for blue shades, while another
might be filled entirely with white flowers, which
.would conduce to a desirable change from the
usual mixed borders in vogue. For borders of
this description hardy and half-hardy annuals
could be largely used. A border 150 feet in
length and 2!j feet in width, or thereabout, de-
voted to pink and rose shades, could be very
effectively arranged by alternating circular

clumps 18 inches or 2 feet in diameter, planted
as follows : — At the extreme back, to give height
to the border, tall standards of Dorothy Perkins
Rose, Lady Gay Rose trained on stakes, pink
varieties of tall growing Sweet Peas, and the
rose-coloured variety of Cosmos. Next, in front
of these, 4 to 5 feet stmd^rds of Caroline Testout
Rose, Lavatera rosea splendens, and pink Sca-
bious. In front of these Pinks, Phlox decussata,
tall carmine-pink Antirrhinum, and Xicotiana
Sandera;. In front of these again dwarf-growing
pink Antirrhinum, Clarkia double " Salmon
Queen," and pink Pentstemons. In front of the
latter rose-coloured East Lothian Stock, Dian-
thus " Salmon Queen," and Ciodetia Lady Satin
Rose. Then, in the immediate front, Esch-
scholtzia compacta intus rosea, pink Phlox
Drummondi, Verbena Miss Willmott, Petunia
Rosy Morn, and Godetia Rosamund.

A Border of Blue Flowers.— li the border is
situated in a sunny position, the effect is en-
hanced, as this colour is seen at its best in a
strong light. As a contradistinction to the bor.
der described above, this might be arranged de-
void of any formal or set design. Throughout
the whole length place supports of sticks— some
cone-shaped, others upright, and some almost
recumbent — around which plant blue varieties of
Sweet Peas, blue Convolvulus, and Ipoma:a
rubro-ccerulea. Then, again, place informal
groups in various sizes and shapes of Del-
phiniums, especially the blue hybrid ones, that
grow 5 feet to 6 feet in l;eight, and the small one,
"Queen of the Blues," which grows only to the
height of 18 inches or 2 feet, but possesses an
exquisite blue colour. Anchusa italica, a very
showy perennial, but which, if sown early, flowers
the same year, is another valuable plant suitable
for such a border. Groups of blue Campanulas —
particularly C. pyramidalis, Anagallis Phillipsii,
Catananche coerulea, Commelina coelestis — these
two, though perennials, flower the first year if
sown now in heat — Lobelia, Phacelia, 'Nemo-
phila insignis, blue Swan River Daisy (Brachy-
come iberidifolia), blue Verbena, Love-in-th'er
Mist, Lupines, Cornflower, Heliotrope, etc., are
all adapted for. this border. If, in addition to
these, perennial plants such as Globe Arti-
chokes, Echinops, Eryn^iuins, A'eronica, and
Platyccdon are used, and care is taken to blend
the different shades harmoniously, the effect will
afford much pleasure.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By VV. .K. Cook, Gardener to Sir EdmUSD G. Louer,
Bart., Leonardslee, Susses.

The Pear Midge (Diplosis pyrivora). — This
pest, which of late years has caused much dam-
age in gardens, will soon be on the move. Spray
the trees just before the blossom appears with
petroleum emulsion, which will destroy many
of the pests while in the larva state. The per-
fect midge appears during April from eggs laid
by the fly when the trees are in flower, the eggs
being deposited in the flower itself. The Hy,
which is very small — being only one-tenth of an
inch long — is busy laying eggs for a month from
about the middle of April to the middle of
May, but varying, of course, according to the
locality. The females lay their eggs in both
the unopened and opened flowers, piercing the
petals, and depositing their eggs on the anthers.
In a few weeks after the attack, the fruits will
swell rapidly, and then suddenly drop from
the tree. The flies are in evidence on sunny
evenings. As an additional remedy and partial
preventive dress the ground under the trees
with a good sprinkling of kainit. Trees chiefly
attacked are the early varieties, and I notice the
insects have a particular liking for the varieties,
Doyenne Boussoch, Williams' Bon Chretien,
Jargonelle, and Marie Louise. I have sprayed the
trees when in bloom with weak petroleum
emulsion, and no damage has resulted to the
blossoms.

Cherries. — During severe weather, very early
flowering varieties of these trees should be given
a slight protection from frost. Sprays of
Heather or bracken Fern can easily be place 1
over the trees at night time and removed in the
morning, and it is surprising what a number of
trees can, in a short time, be thus protected.

Vigilance should be the watchword of the fruit
grower during April and May.

Fed Currants, itc. — To combat attacks of the
currant-moth, spray the bushes with petroleum
emulsion before the leaves fully develop. This

will be found to prevent an immediate attack,
as these moths begin to feed and commence
boring early in April, or as soon as genial
weather obtains.

Gooseberry hushes should be sprayed with a
strong solution of quassia extract, taking care'
that every particle of the bush is reachegl. This
should be done several times. If an attack of
Gooseberry mildew is feared; or if the bushes
have previously been attacked by the fungus,
apply a dressing of potassium sulphide at the
rate of 8oz. to 20 gallons of water. This should
be applied just as the buds are expanding, but
should not be used after the fruit is set. An-
other sprinkling of lime will be beneficial to ths
trees and ground.

Fruit Room. — Examine the etores of Apples and;
Pears frequently, and remove all decaying fruits.
Late varieties of Apples should be moved as
little as possible, but when shifting does become
necessary, replace them on some soft wood-wool,
or a cool base that is free from damp.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, VVelbeck .\bbey, Notts.
Transplanting young plants. — In order to ob*
tain the very best plants of Cabbages, Cauli-
flowers, Savoys, Kales, c&c, no system I have
tried can compare with that of transplanting
from the seed-bed on to a spare piece of ground.
In gardens where slugs are troublesome or where
the soil is heavy and quickly " bakes " in the
sun, the plants have a far greater chance of 6e-
coming established when so treated, especially
if the weather is hot, and, in addition, they
mature more quickly. Plants allowed to be-
come leggy and drawn in the seed-bed never
give the best results, and the extra labour en-
tailed in transplanting is more than repaid.
The time is fast approaching when this work
should be taken iri hand, and I would advise
all young gardenei-s to adopt the practice, old
though it be.

Potatos. — Endeavour .to sow the sets for the
main crop without delay, but choose a dry time
for the purpose, so that the soil will be left
as loose as possible around the seed tubers.
Wood ashes from the rubbish-heap fire should
be incorporated with the soil, for, in addition
to furnishing plant food, they improve the
quality of the crop. Avoid using rank manures
at this season of the j'Car ; rather wait and apply
a dressing of nitrate of soda just before earthing
up the plants. Plenty of room both between
the sets and in the lines should be given,
and if a few special specimens are wantecl
for exhibition purposes, select strong, well-
sprouted tubers and plant them in well-rotted
leaf mould, with some fine sand added to ensure
a clean appearance of the skins.

Onions. — Plants intended for making large
specimens should be gradually hardened
off in frames, with a view to their being
finally planted about the middle of 'the
present month. Syringe the plants in fhe
afternoons when the weather is fine, and slightly
stir the surface of the soil in which they are
growing, for this may have become almost im-
pervious to air from the frequent syringings aiid
waterings. Young gardeners wishing to excel
in the growth of these, as with all vegetables,
must give constant attention to details and not
trust to any haphazard methods. There is still
time to sow Onions in the open ground if the
main crop is not already in, and now that we
may expect April showers, the seeds will sooii
germinate and produce strong seedlings.

Lettuce. — Seedlings from the early sowing in
frames will now be large enough to transplant
in the open border. Plant in lines 15 inches
apart, leaving sufllcient room between the plants
for their proper development, always remember,
ing that some varieties require much greater
space than others. Water the plants at the time
of transplanting if the weather is dry, and pro-
tect them with interfacings of black cotton from
birds, which at this season are most trouble-
some. Plants raised from early sown seeds
grown on hot-beds will now be fit to cut. Plenty
of water should be given the plants to ensure
tenderness. Continue transplanting in frames
in order to maintain a regular supply, taking
care to remove the sashes during hot sunshine.
There has been very little of the latter in this
locality during March.

216

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[AruiL

ISOG.

EDITORI AL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

t.etters for Publication, as -veil as specimeiis ami plants

for iiaitiiiig^, ihoiild be aiidiesscd to the H DITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden. London.

Commujiications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. 1/ desired, the signature will not he
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— r/jc Editor does not

undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor docs not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive andto select
pliotngraphs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ &c., but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by seiuiingto
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readets, or of aJiy matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

TUESDAY,

. , J Devon Daffodil and Spring FI.
April 10 I g^^^. ^( Plymouth (2 days).

TiTTTT5cT^rt\r A ,1 ..^iBritish Gard. Assoc, meet, at
THURSDAY, April 12 j Altrincham.

FRIDAY,

SATURD.^Y,

April 13 Good Friday.

f Ann. meet. Dutch Gardeners'
Society, at Richmond, Surrey.

April 14 \

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of I'Drty-three Years at Chiswick — 47*5°.

Actual Temperatures; —

LouDOK.—Wedmsclay, April i (6 p.m.): Max. 57°; Min.
40°.
Gardeners' Cltroniele Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — lliursiiity, April 5
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.9; Temp., 66°; H'aUhcr—
Bright sunshine.
PROVlticzs.— Weclmsiiay, April i (0 p.m.): Max. 52*
England S.E. ; Min. 45° England S.E.

SALES.

MONDAY—

Herbaceous and o herp'ants, Roses, Azaleas.''*^ , at 67
& 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

TUESDAY-

Japanese Lilief, dwarf trees and porcelain pots for
same. Bamboo Canes, Gladiolus and other bulbs, at 67 &
68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at i.

■WEDNESDAY—

Plants and bulbs. Lilies, Gladiolus, &c., at 12 ; 2,500
Rosts at 1 and 3, Palms Azaleas, &c., at 67 & 68
Cheapside E.C., by Protheroe & Morris.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, of St.
Orchid- .Mbans, have issued a " com-
HybPids. plete, up-to-date list " of liybrid
Orchids containing- the names
and indicating the l-cnown or presumed
parentage of all known kinds. They have
<lone their best to secure accuracy' and
verify all the records, but it is obvious that
in some cases the records, if they e.xist at all,
are inaccurate or incomplete. The defect of
ithe work is that no statement is given where
the record is made and no inforination is
given as to who was the recorder, or as to
where the alleged hybrid was raised. The
tiook is interleaved so that students can enter
these particulars when they are able to find
them, and can also add the names of the
hybrids or crosses raised since the publica-
tion of the volume.

We have to deal with what is put
before us rather than with that which
is omitted. We may, therefore, say that
the list will be of very great assistance
and value, and that to have added the infor-
mation alluded to would have greatly en-
hanced the labours of the compilers, in-
creased the size of the book, and inevitably
■delayed its publication. The hybrids men-

tioned are arranged in three separate tables.
In the first the genera are arranged alpha-
betically, and under each genus is given first
the name of the hybrid, then that of the
seed-parent, and thirdly that of the pollen-
parent. In the second table the arrange-
ment is different. First comes the name of
the seed-parent, then that of the pollen-
parent, and afterwards the name of the
"product." The third table contains the
same names arranged alphabetically under
the genera as before, but the pollen-parent is
put first, then the seed-parent, and lastly
the product. The names of the hybrids are
thus arranged in three different ways, so
that research will be greatly facilitated. The
book appears appropriately enough just
before the Hybridisation Conference, and
will probably give rise to interesting com-
ment. For instance, under Ancectochilus we
have crosses between the genera or alleged
genera Haemaria, Dossinia, and Macodes.
We do not stop now to investigate this result.
We merely indicate it as furnishing a sub-
ject for discussion as to the limitations of
genera. Then we come to Brasso-Cattleya,
vthich is intelligible enough, but what are
we to say to Brasso-Catlaelia ?

It is evident that the question of the most
appropriate system of nomenclature must be
raised before the present system breaks down
by its own weight. We are not fond of popu-
lar or vernacular names as a rule, because
they present such pitfalls for the unwary, but
in the case of these artificially made hybrids,
fanciful names such as are given to florists'
flowers would surely be preferable. The
pedigree should, of course, always be recorded
for reference, but the endeavour to incorpor-
ate it with the name is a clumsy and con-
fusing device.

To show the extent to which hybridisation
or cross-breeding is now carried, we may say
that about 277 hybrid varieties of Cattleya
alone are enumerated. Of Cypripedium the
numbers are so large that we cannot readily
count them, but as upwards of twenty pages
in double column are devoted to them, and
there are between 70 and 80 varieties men-
tioned on each page, there must be not fewer
than about 1,540 named varieties. Six or
seven pages are required for the enumeration
of the varieties of Laelio-Cattleya. On the
contrary, only a single hybrid Stanhopea
or Saccolabium is mentioned, and many
other genera have as yet received but little
attention from the hybridist. The material
at the disposal of the scientific botanist is,
however, very extensive, so that this list,
primarily intended for cultivators, will
greatly facilitate the labours of the students
of cross-breeding and heredity, and be most
valuable to those who are endeavouring to
unravel the so-called Mendelian laws and
apply them to practical purposes.

Our Supplementary Illustration. —
Macodes javanica is one of the best of the
ornamental leaved Orchids that used to be known
as Ancectocbili. It is also one of several that have
always grown well at Kew, the others being M.
petola, Dossinia marmorata, Goodyera Rollisonii,
and Hsemaria Dawsoniana. There are good
examples of tliese at Kew now. They are grown
under large bell-glasses in the tropical Orchid
house in a compost of sphagnum-moss, peat fibre,
and oak leaves. Macodes javanica has creeping
or sub-erect stems as thick as a swan's quill,
which grow to a height of about 6 inches, and are
coloured rosy red. The leaves measure 3 inches
hy 2 inches, the upper surface coloured dark

velvety green, with pale green parallel nerves and
white reticulating lines, the under surface being of
reddish colour. The flowers also are attractive.
They are borne on erect scapes 8 inches long, and
may be likened to a Goodyera, each flower being
half an inch across and coloured bright orange
red, tipped with white. The plant is a native of
Java.

Royal Horticultural Society. — We are
requested to announce that a copy of the fifth
edition of Dr. Hogg's Fruit Manual (published in
1884) is wanted for the Royal Horticultural Society's
Students' Library at Wisley. Will any reader
who has a copy to spare kindly communicate with
the Secretary, Royal Horticultural Society, 'Vin-
cent Square, Westminster, S.W. ?

Botanical Magazine. — The April number
contains coloured figures and descriptions of the
following plants : —

Nepenthes Phyllamphora, Willdenow, tab.
8,067. — This is the species properly so called,
the one illustrated in Bot. Mag., t. 2,629 and t.
2,798 being more correctly called N. khasyana.
N. Phyllamphora, according to Hemsley, differs
from all known species in having the mar-
gins of the leaves ciliolate, or even minutely
toothed. It was the first species of the genus
to be cultivated at Kew as long ago as 1789.
It is widely distributed over Eastern tropical
Asia and Western Polynesia.

Gladiolus carmineus, C. H. Wright, tab.
8,068. — A South African species with rosy pink
flowers, two of the inner segments have at the
base a paler blotch surrounded by a darker
border. Iviw.

LiGUSTRUlI STRONGVLOPHVLLUM, HcmsUy, tab.
8,069. — A Chinese species discovered by Dr.
Henry, and also found by Wilson on the cliffs
west of Ichanq and westward as far as Mount
Omei in Tze Chuan. It is a hardy or half-hardy
evergreen shrub with shortly stalked, ovate,
acute, coriaceous leaves anj terminal pyramidal
many-flowered panicles; flowers individually
small, whhe. It was introduced by Wilson to
the Veitchian nurseries.

Cypripedium tideticum, King. — Introduced
from the neighbourhood of Ta-tien-lu by E. H.
Wilson to the Veitchian nurseries. It is allied
to C. macranthum swarz, Bot. Mag., t. 2,938,
but differs in colour and shape of thestaminode.
It is a handsome species with flowers 4 inches
across, the segments are oblong, sharply
pointed, with numerous red veins on a yellowish
ground ; lip bag-shaped, purplish.

Callopsis Volkensii, Engler, t. 8,071. — A
very curious and attractive Aroid, native of
German South Africa. It is a tufted herbaceous
plant with stalked ovate, oblong, acute, buUate
leaves 4-5 inches long, with two rounded lobes
at the base, and a whitish margin. The white
spathes are \\ inches long, borne on a slender
stalk and partially surround a yellow spadix.
It is a plant that is amply deserving of cultiva-
tion, and offers possibilities to the hybridiser.
Kew.

Small Holdings. — The Departmental Com-
mittee held a sitting on the 2Sth ult. Evidence
was given by Mr. R. S. Baldbn, Dewsbury,
Yorks., W.R., and Mr. W. Anker Simmons,
F.S.I. , Henley-on-Thames.

Betteshanger. — Mr. John Selwav's retire-
ment is announced, on March 28, from Bette-
shanger Gardens, the seat of Lord Northbourne,
in whose service he had been for the past thirty-
four years. During this long service (writes a
correspondent) Mr. Selway has made many im-
provements in the gardens, both inside and outside.
New glass-houses have been built and rockeriea
formed under his supervision. Mr. W. Sims, who
has been for the past thirteen years gardener to
Captain R. A. Vansittart, at North Cray Place,
succeeds Mr. Selwav at Betteshanger.

April 7, 190G.1

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

2l\

Orchid Sale.— It will be remembered that a
well-known English amateur purchased in 1901
five Orchids from a Belgian firm at a high price,
30,000 francs = £1,200. The Orchids were not
in flower at the time of purchase, but the trans-
action was carried out on the strength of some
coloured illustrations which, it is alleged, pur-
ported to be correct representations. When the
Orchids flowered, however, it Was seen that thj
blooms were not so fine as those represented in
the plate. The purchaser thereupon took steps
before the Tribunal of Commerce of Brussels to
have the contract of sale annulled. Much was
said on both sides, the vendors alleging that the
sale had been made in good faith, and suggesting
that the plants might have been changed by the
purchaser or his agents, and, on these grounds,
that the contract of sale should not be set aside.
The Court took the opinion of sundry experts,
all well-known Belgian Orchid growers, and
these gentlemen, as we learn from a Brussels
paper dated March 29, gave in a long report on
the day previous. The result was in favour of
the plaintiff purchaser, and the sale is annulled
on account of error (pour cause d'erreurs). The
defendant vendors have, in consequence, to re-
imburse the purchaser the 30,000 francs, as well
as a further sum of 3,000 francs for interest, etc. —
" dommages-intirits." As we learn that the ver.
diet may possibly be appealed against, comment
must be reserved. ■)

The Plants of New Zealand. — Messrs.
Whitcombe and Tomds, of Addle Hill, Caiter
Lane, E.G., announce the publication of a
volume to contain short scientific descriptions
of all the more important — and of many of the
rarer — New Zealand plants ; and also a full and
popular account of all points of interest in con-
nection with each species. The adaptations
shown by the leaf to its environment and the
special contrivances of the flower to ensure
cross-pollination, will be especially dealt with.
The economic value of the chief timber trees
will be shortly considered, and Maori legends
and lore with regard to the plants of the rnoun.
tains and the plains will also receive attention.
This is a book which should be in the hands of
every teacher of Nature Study, and of all lovers
of our wild flowers. The book is illustrated by
reproductions from the best series of photo-
graphs yet taken of the plants of New Zealand.
Judging from the specimen pages before us, this
will form a useful book for those interested in
the culture of New Zealand plants.

FiNSBURY Park. — h. correspondent draws our
attention to the decorative or show-house in the
Finsbury Park, Loijdon, which he says is exceed-
ingly effective at the present time. This house is
about loo feet in length, and contains Palms,
Dracaenas, and other species of fine foliage plants,
between which are interspersed flowering trees
and shrubs, cultivated in pots, grouping Narcissi,
also in pots, with suitable edgings. The plants are
described as being in the best condition, and the
arrangement for display is of an exemplary
character.

The Wild Fauna and Flora of Kew.^

It is not easy to exaggerate the delights or the
scientific importance of Kew. We are constantly
referring to the plants that are cultivated therein,
but as much interest attaches, and some would
say more,. to the natives of the garden from birds
Xo earth worms or beetles. A number of the
Kew Bulletin, lately issued, is strongly com-
mended to the notice of naturalists. The pre-
face, by the late Director, furnishes in itself an
epitome of the history of the garden, especially
of those portions which have been little dis-
turbed by cultivation for a century and a half,
if ever. Such an area is a sanctuary for birds,
and other creatures — long may it remain so.
Mr. Nicholson, the ex-curator, had devoted

much time and attention to the detection and
enumeration of the native inmates of the gar-
den, and to assist him had enlisted the services
of many specialists in various departments. Mr.
Nicholson's health unfortunately prevented
him from publishing an account of his re-
searches. The appointment of Mr. Pear-
son to the Professorship of Botany in
Cape Town caused him also to abandon
the task which he took up in succession
to Mr. Nicholson. Now that tho ex-Director
has been relieved of administrative duties, he
has been enabled to carry the work to comple-
tion. Even now there are some groups of in-
sects and other creatures that have not been
catalogued, but, nevertheless, we have in the
memoir before us a particularly interesting ac-
count of certain forms of life which, under the
favourable conditions existent, are enabled to
live on what is relatively a microscopic speck of
the earth's surface. The list comprises an
enumeration of the Mammals, Birds, Reptiles,
Fish, Molluscs, and of many of the orders of
insects, as well as of the wild plants of all
descriptions. Each group has been cata-
logued by a specialist, who has added oc-
casional notes, so that the book is of a par-
ticularly interesting and authoritative character.
Tho number of Fungi enumerated by Mr.
Massee is astonishing. Lichens, on the other
hand, are few in number. The number of
species, at any rate, of plants which have " es-
caped from cultivation " and established them-
selves as residents is not so large as the imme-
diate proximity of a large garden would lead us
to expect.

National Fruit Growers' Federation. —

A meeting took place on April 2 in the Royal
Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square, Westmin-
ster, when the chair was taken by Mr. F. S. W.
Cornwallis. The Council considered the Draft
Railway and Canals Bill as drawn up by the Joiut
Railway and Parliamentary Committee on which the
Federation is ."-epresented by the president, secre-
tary, and Mr. C. H. Hooper, F.S.I. Many of the
clauses were discussed carefully in detail and the
general scope of the Bill was cordially approved ;
that one, however, dealing with owners' risk rates
(clause 5) was reserved for further consideration.
.\mongst the more important provisions of the
Bill are those defining the liability of Railway
Companies under Owners' Risk Rates, and giving
large judicial powers to the Board of Agriculture
and Trade in the settlement of claims and dis-
putes. Another very useful clause provides for
what are called "Glut Rates," which would
enable Railway Companies to lower rates for a
specified time when crops are unusually heavy
without the hampering conditions under which they
now suffer with regard to restoring the ordinary
rates. Theannual general meeting will be held early
in May, when all members will be invited to ex-
press their views on the. recommendations of the
Departmental Committee on Fruit Culture, with
the view of urging those which are considered of
the most pressing importance on the attention of
Parliament and the Board of Agriculture.

Horticultural Club for India. — The

moving spirit, says Indian Planting and Gar-
dening,inXhe present venture is Mr. S. P. Chat-
TEEji. Lord Kitchener, Commander-in-Chief in
India, who is an enthusiastic amateur gardener,
is among the patrons of the club, and Mr. H.
Holmwood, I.C.S., is the president. There is
a strong committee of directors, which includes
all those interested m horticultural subjects ;
while Mr. Chatterji is the hon. secretary. The
objects are simple : to exchange notes of culti-
vation for mutual information. There is to
be a library, wherein all the leading horti-
cultural and botanical journals will be placed
for the benefit of members, together with
a collection of suitable books for reference.
The club will hold several exhibitions. By

means of these exhibitions the interest in gar-
dening will be sustained throughout the year.
A suitable site has been selected at Calcutta
for a local habitation, where the members will
meet at any time to exchange ideas. The struc-
ture will be an ornamental one having a glazed
annexe, in which the shows will be held. The
formation of the club was to be inaugurated by
a combined Flower and Orchid Show to be held
at Mr. Chatterji's beautiful nursery at Nar-
coldanga on March \'l.

Electricity as applied to Agriculture.

— An experiment of thi greatest interest to farmers
and gardeners is now being conducted by Messrs.
R. and B. Bomford, of Pitchill and Bevington, near
Evesham. On several occasions, in Germany, at
Durham University, and elsewhere, practical ex-
periments have been made in the growing of crops
by means of electricity, and this is what Messrs.
Bomford are doing on their farm, but the experi-
ment differs from its predecessors in some important
particulars. /The work is being superintended by
Mr. J. E. Newman, who, in an interview with a
representative of the Evesham Journal the other
day, described what it is hoped to do and how it
will be done. In the first place, ig acres are
being treated, and over this acreage high poleis
have been erected, and from these, at a height of i6
feet, wires are suspended. The electricity is dis-
charged from these wires, the current being
generated by a dynamo driven by a three horse-
power oil engine, and being subsequently trans-
formed to a high pressure by a means which is at
present kept secret. It has been found in the
earlier experiments that the discharge of the
current over ground crops, such as Wheat, tends to
increase the yield both of corn and straw. The
causes of this do not seem very clearly understood,
but the probabilities seem to point to one, though
not the sole, factor being that the discharge enables
the plant to absorb nitrogen directly from the air.
It is somewhat curious that plants which go to
increase the amount of nitrogen in the soil, such as
Peas, Beans, and Clover, are adversely affected
by the current under ordinary conditions^ Mr.
Newman pointed out that in the experiments
carried out by Professor Lemstrom, of Helsing-
fors University, who was the first to test the matter,
a comparatively low-tension electricity was used,
and the wires were run only a short distance above
the ground. Last year Mr. Newman himsell
conducted a series of experiments at Bitton, near
Bristol, as lately mentioned in our columns, where
he distributed the current over indoor Cucumbers,
outdoor Strawberries, Cabbages, Peas and Beans.
On the whole, the results were very encouraging.
In the present tests, twelve acres are planted with
Wheat, about seven with Barley, and the rest small
plots of various crops. The wires are placed high
above the ground so as not to interfere with steam
cultivation. Asked as to what results he expected,
Mr. Newman said they would be very disappointed
if they did not get 25 per cent, more corn with a
corresponding increase in straw ; in fact, there is,
as a rule, a bigger increase in the straw than in the
corn. They hope, too, that the corn will be of a
better quality, and that it will be as good from a
milling point of view as the Canadian corn, with-
out which millers say they cannot produce a flour
from which bakers can make that purely white
bread which their customers at the present time
will have. If these expectations are fulfilled, the
farmer's business will be revolutionised. At Beving-
ton, it is proposed to run the plant morning and
evening till the harvest. In the case of autumn-
sown Wheat, had the plant been ready last autumn,
the)' wouljl have run it as soon as the grain was
sown. Irhe current produces earlier germination,
for in an experiment tried last year, Mr. Newman
found that Peas planted in the wire-covered area
came through much quicker than thoste planted
in the open, the dividing line, in fact, was very

218

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Apkil 7, 1906.

clearly marked. The time during which the plant
will be run at Bevington has not been finally
settled ; a great deal will depend upon the weather,
the duller the weather the more the plant will be
run— in dry weather they will probably stop it,
Mr. Newman was questioned as to the applicability
of the system to market gardening, and he agreed
that it was of much practical interest to gardeners.
In the open grounds he saw no difficulty in the
way, but where there are rows of tregs, of course
the wiring would be more complicated! The whole
question is arousing a great deal of mterest in the
district, and the results of the experiments are
awaited with considerable anxiety. It is a quarter
of a century since we chronicled the very extra-
ordinary results obtained by the late Sir William
Siemens with the use of the electric light in forcing.
But the matter was not taken up here, though it
was both in France and in America. Hence it is
with great interest that we now note the experi-
ments carried out at Bitton and Evesham. They
go to prove that we do not utilise the means at
our disposal to the extent we might do, or any-
thing like it.

Dr. Lionel Bjale.— The death of this well-
known physician in his 79th year is announced.
Old King's College men will remember that he
was the successor of Tcdd and Bowman, and
the first to establish a private chemical and physio-
logical laboratory for the use of students. There
pupils could learn for themselves what till then
had only been told them by their teachers, or read
in text books. It seems a small matter nowa-
days, but it was a great step in advance in the
middle of the nineteenth century. Dr. Beale
was a prolific writer, but we doubt whether any of
his books was more useful than his " How to
Observe," a book which gave the most complete
directions to the student as to what and how to
observe in the sick-room. A book on the same
plan would- be useful in many a garden. Dr.
Beale was fond of gardening, and we well re-
member the interest with which he showed us his
"garden " in Grosvenor Street. This was placed
onthe "leads," at different elevations— the hot-
house below, the greenhouse on another floor !
Afterwards, Dr. Beale was able to carry on his
hobby at Weybridge, under more propitious cir-
cumstances. Dr. Beale was a Fellow of the
Royal Horticultural Society, and was occasionally
seen at the meetings.

New Garden Plants of the Year 1905.
Appendix iii. to the Kew Bulletin for 1906 con-
tains an enumeration of the plants introduced into
gardens during the year 1905, as compiled from
numerous British and foreign publications. The
value of these yearly enumerations is so great
that all plant-lovers should possess themselves of
a copy, particularly as the cost is only a few
pence.

The Royal Flora Society. — The Socieii
RoyaU de Flore at Brussels, which has recently
been aroused from a long period of lethargy,
has an interesting history, and may, in some
sense, be considered the senior society of the
kind in the world. According to a document be.
fore us, the Society dates back (like our own
Royal Society — we do not mean Royal Horticul-
tural Society) to the middle of the seventeenth
century. The records show that it was in ex-
istence under another name before 1650. M
that time, instead of receiving the name of a
heathen goddess, it was placed under the pro-
tection of Saint Dorothea. In 1661 the statutes
of the confraternity were drawn up, and among
the members were several whose descendants
are still to be found in Brussels. What the con-
fraternity of Saint Dorothea actually did for
horticulture, apart from religious observances,
, IS not stated ; but in 1822 the confraternity was
re-organised and transformed into the Socittc
' dc Flore. Such was the interest felt in Belgium

in the seventeenth century that a similar society
to the one that we have just mentioned was estab-
lished at Bruges in 1651, and continued till the
present time. It also was at first placed under the
protection of Saint Dorothea. There is a legend
attaching to the martyred maiden, which ac-
counts for the association of her name with
these societies. It is briefly this: — As (in the
fourth century) she was being led to the place
of execution, her lover urged her to recant, urg-
ing, among other reasons for not quitting this
earth, the beauty of its flowers. The martyred
girl replied that the fiowers in Paradise far
excelled in beauty those of this earth. "Then,"
said her lover, " when I receive flowers from
Paradise I, too, will become a Christian."
Scarcely was the sainted maiden dead when a
boy appeared from Heaven, his arms filled with
roses, which he laid at the feet of the awe-
stricken lover with the words : " Theophilus,
the maiden Dorothea, now in Heaven, sends
you these flowers." That is the legend of the
fourth century ; now in the twentieth we knov.'
that the spirit, if not the letter, of the legend is
so far true, that flowers are the gift of Heaven.
Quite lately, as we have had occasion to record,
the Sociile de Flore has, in association with the
Societe Royale Linneenne, organised a series of
monthly meetings, like those held fortnightly by
our own R.H.S. The meetings are held in the
Botanic Garden, Brussels, and under the ener-
getic and zealous direction of MM. de Wilde-
man and Gentil, supported by an influential
committee, of which M. Warocque is president,
we cannot doubt that a great future is before
the reconstituted Society. Among the 25
niembres d'hontuur of the Society, we find the
names of the leading horticulturists, including
for Great Britain and Ireland those of the
following gentlemen: — Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Dr. Maxwell Masters, Mr. George Nicholson,
Lt.-Col. Praia, George Schneider, H. J. Veitch,
and W. Watson.

Mr. Jas. O'Brien. — It will be interesting to
many of ' our readers to learn that our corre-
spondent, Mr. James O'Brien, honorary secretary
of the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society, long an overseer of the poor
of the parish of Harrow-on-the-Hill, and member
of the burial board, was on Monday last elected
a Councillor of the Urban District, at the head
of the poll of 13 candidates.

Grape thinnings. — There appears to be a
marketable \alue in the berries of Grapes removed
during the process of thinning. We recently saw
a sample in a fruiterer's shop, ticketed 6d. per lb.,
which appears to be full value for this formerly
waste product. We are aware that green Grapes
in this stage will make wine, as will indeed the
young growths.

Surveyors' Institution. — The next ordinary
general meeting, being the second of the two after-
noon meetings arranged for the convenience of
country members, will be held in the Lecture Hall
of the Institution on Monday, April 23, 1906, at
4 p.m., when a paper will be read by Mr. ]. W".
Willis Bund (Associate), entitled " The Effect of
the Education Act, 1902, on Rural Districts."

The Distribution of Plants by the
Royal Horticultural Society. — One of the

inducements held out to become Fellows is the
privilege of selecting certain plants from a long
list supplied to the Fellows. Complaints have
from time to time reached us of the miserable
scraps thus sent out, but a sample box now sent
us by a correspondent is almost ludicrous. The
box, carriage, and packing expenses amounted to
gd;, but the plants themselves were much inferior
to what could be purchased for the same or less
money from a costermonger's barrow. \^'hen
the time and labour imposed on the staff in

collecting and sending out these wretched speci-
mens are taken into consideration it becomes
obvious that the Society must not only lose in
public estimation but must carry on its operations
in a most unremunerative manner.

Publications Received.— r/i« Royal Society oj
St. George. Annual Report and Year Book, 1905.
.\ society that appeals to all English patriots. — Forty-
second Annual Report of the Queensland Acclimatisation
Society, 1905. Mr. Edward Grimley, Secretary, and
Mr. F. Mitchell, Overseer, report favourably upon the
work done up to the end March, 1905. — Proceedings of
the A gri-Horticultiiral Society of Madras, July to Sep-
tember, 1905. Experiments were made with Cara-
vonica and other Cotton. The Coco de Mer, or Double-
Cocoanut (Lodoicea Seychellarum) germinated in the-
gardens, for the first time on record in Madras, and it
is believed that only in two other public gardens in.
India is the plant to be found ; namely, in the Royal.
Botanic Gardens, Calcutta and the State Gardens,
Baroda. — The Proceedings, October to December, 1905,
contain papers on the Rhea fibre industry, Agave fibres,
and Araucaria excelsa. — Pietermaritzburg Botanic
Society. Annual reports and balance sheet for 1905.
Marked development and improvement have been
achieved. Mr. Hyslop, president, is to be con-
gratulated on a successful season. — Bulletin of the
Department of Agriculture, Jamaica. February.
Contents : Banana Soils, Hope Gardens, Grape, Fruit,
and Shaddocks and Breadfruit-tree. — Horticultural
College, Su'auley, Kent, Report for 190-5, S-c.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

PICEA MORINDOIDES.
The little sketch, fig. 84 is taken from ai spray
obligingly sent us by the Earl of Annesley. It
represents the foliage of the new species of Picea,
named by Mr. Rehder, Picea morindoides, from a
specimen growing on the estate of M. Allard, in

X 2

STOM SUI^

^<h'-on

Fig 84. — picea morindoides, showing leaf-
bud, FOLIAGE, AND TORTION OF BRANCH. THE
LEAF SECTION IS REVERSED, THE STOMATE
BEARING SURFACE, " STOM BUR," BEING REALLY
UPPERMOST.

the neighbourhood of Angers. Dr. Henry recog-
nised the same species as growing at Castlewellan,
Co. Down. Lord Annesley tells us the seeds were
received by him from Chumbi district of the
Himalaya, North of Bhotan, in the year 1889..

Aprii, 7, 190C.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

219

It is a flat-leaved Spruce, as may be seen from th;
leaf-section, which is magnified ten diatneters. The
stomates are on the upper surface. (The drawing
of the section has been inadvertently reversed.)
Unlike the ordinary Spruces the leaves have palis-
sade tissue. The resin canals are near the edge
of the leaf on the upper surface. On the upper
side of the branches the leaves point towards the
tip of the shoot and lie in one flattish plane. The
leaves are more crowded, shorter and less curved,
than in P. Morir.da.

It is a curious circumstance that these flat-
leaved Spruces belonging to the section Omorica
have now been found in North-West America
(P. sitchensis), in south-eastern Europe (P. orao-
rika), in the Himalaya (P. morindoides), in Japan
and neighbouring countries (P. ajanensis), and in
Western China, where Mr. Wilson has discovered
P. complanata [Gardeners' Chronicle, March lo,
p. 147, fig. 57), P. purpurea Mast, ined., as well
as other undescribed species.

The height of the tree at Castlewellan is 22 feet,
the spread of the branches 39 feet, the girth of
the stem, at 5 feet from the ground, 18 inches.
Maxwell T. Masters.

Further investigation shows that this Spruce

occurs, though as a rare tree, in Sikkim, Bhutan,
and the Chumbi Valley, at elevations between
8,500 and 10,000 feet. Judging from the material
at Kew, the other Himalayan Spruce, Picea
Morinda, is not a native of Sikkim and Bhutan,
but is restricted to the north-west Himalayas
and Afghanistan.

Picea morindoides was first discovered by
Griffith, on the Rodoli Mountain, in Bhutan, and
named in 1S47, Abies spinulosa,* his description
in the following year being accurate and distinc-
tive, though his specimens have been lost.

Picea morindoides being the earliest name under
the correct genus, must stand ; but as it is possible
that some one of the newer school of nomenclature
will prefer the specific name, spinulosa, being re-
vived, I may as well place it on record.

Sir Joseph Hooker met with P. morindoides in
1849, in Sikkim. at Lachen, and correctly identi-
fied it with Griffith's species ; but unluckily after-
wards t combined it with Picea Morinda. There are
also specimens at Kew, collected by Mr. H. E.
Hobson, at Yatung. It is remarkable that this
tree should be so rare in cultivation, as seeds have
been sent at various times to Europe from the
Botanical Gardens at Calcutta.

I may add that the confusion between the two
Himalayan Spruces is paralleled in the Silver Firs
from that region, for besides Abies Webbiana and
Abies Pindrow, there are two other Himalayan
Silver Firs in cultivation in Britain which are very
distinct varieties if not true species.

A study of the Conifers of the Himalayas on
the spot by the Indian foresters would make clear
the puzzling varieties which occur in cultivation.
Augustine Henry.

DENDROBIUM WIGANIANUM—
"GATTON PARK VARIETY."

Our illustration (Fig. 85) represents a flower of
this fine Dendrobium which secured both an Award
of Merit and the First Diploma at the Royal
Horticultural Society's meeting held on March 6.
Fine varieties of D. Hildebrandi and D. nobile
were used in its production, and the result is that
this variety is the most perfectly-formed flower of
its class. The blooms, which are of good sub-
stance, are creamy-white, tinted with rose colour,
the disc of the lip being of primrose-yellow colour
with some purple lines at the base.

♦Griffith, Journals, 259 (1847); Itin. Notes, 145 (1S43) ; dJiii
Icon. PI. .isiat. t. 363 (1S54).

t Hooker, Fl. Brit. India, v. 653 (18S8)

MARKET GARDENING.

GRAPES.

In one of the best market establishments.
Black Hambro is now, or has lately been, in
flower, and the vines are being practically left
alone so far as top culture is concerned. Every-
thing up to the date of flowering had been done
in the way of stopping, and if the points
are just kept from the glass, they will be
safe for tying dow-n when the bunches have set.
The Grapes will be ripe in May and June. Gros
Colman and Black Alicante for August and
September cutting are disbudded. Owing to rough
weather in the mornings, overhead syringing is
not done until nearly noon. These ten-year-old
vines are being reguiariy cropped every year.
They are grown on the double rod system, and the
training wires are i foot from glass at the front,
running up to 2 feet at angle. Canon Hall Mus-
cat for end of July and August cutting are now
practically disbudded.

Mid-season vines are now very active, and are
being gently forced, to follow on. Late houses from

called in support of the claim, including that
of the county analyst, and among other things
it was alleged that best Turkish seed, the kind
asked for, was not supplied. For the defence,
Mr. Otto Ilebner, past president of the Society
of Public Analysts, etc., who had analysed some
of the seed similar to that said to have been
supplied to plaintiff, gave evidence that he
found no trace of sulphur foreign to the seed.
Asked why the birds should have dted except
for the reason given by Mr. Embrey, witness
said it often happened that birds died in flocks,
pheasants in woods by thousands, and part-
ridges continually, not from their food, but from
some infectious disease.

His Honour came to the conclusion that the
birds did not die from sulphuric acid poisoning,
but that death was attributable to the bad seed
sold by the defendants to the plaintiff, and to
no other cause. He thought plaintiff was en-
titled to the fair value of the birds lost, arid
assessed their value at £18, giving judgment for
plaintiff for that amount.

Notice of appeal was given.

Fig. S5. — DENDROBIUM WIGANI.'^NUM — " G.\TTON PARK VARIETY.

which Grapes were only cleared in January and
February have been cleansed, the borders watered,
forked, and mulched. Ventilation, front and top,
is left on night and day, the vines being allowed
to start naturally, after which a very little fire
is used. 5. Stephen Castle, March 24.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

LAW NOTES.

SINGULAR CLAIM AGAINST A
SEEDSMAN.
The Gloucester County Court judge has given
a decision in a case of some importance to bird
breeders and seedsmen. Towards the end o£
last year a breeder of canaries found that a
number of his birds died. He was unable to
account for this, but suspecting that the seed
with which they had been fed might be at the
bottom of the trouble, he had some of it ana-
lysed by the county analyst, who certified that
it contained free sulphuric acid ( !), and that the
post-mortem appearance of the birds, as de-
scribed, was consistent with poisoning by sul-
phuric acid. The seedsmen who supplied the
seed were thereupon sued for £30 as damages,
alleged to have been sustained through them
or their servants having supplied defective
canary seed. A good deal of evidence was

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Hardiness of Hippeastrums. — Mr. J.

Douglas, on pp. 177-78, in his interesting account
of the species of Hippeastrum and their hybrids,
in lamenting the supposed absence of a har-
dier race oi Hippeastrums, says : — ' ' It would
rejoice the hearts of thousands of amateurs if a
hardier race of Hippeastrums could be produced
suitable for cultivation in a greenhouse tempera-
ture." I am pleased to say that we have, and
have had for several years past, plenty of material
for the purpose. Forms of H. vittatum and H.
aulicum are now being grown extensively in struc-
tures where artificial heat, sufficient only to exclude
frost, is employed. An amateur with a green-
house or a frame from which frost can be ex-
cluded can grow Hippeastrums well, provided he
fulfils the necessary requirements in the matters of
drainage, suitable soil, watering and firm potting.
The careless use of the watering can is responsible
for more dead bulbs than any other cause. When
an amateur learns to administer water to the bulbs
at the proper time, he can grow Hippeastrums.
At Isleworth, in the gardens of A. Worsley, Esq,,
where a speciality of these and many other plants
of Amaryllidaceae is made, Hippeastrums are
grown from the seedling to the flowering state in
frames where frost is kept out. Splendid bulbs
are thus grown, and some are planted out of doors
at the foot of a wall facing south. The most

TJ,\i

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[ApKiL 7, 120C.

Moriterous bulb that I have ever seen was planted
thus, and threw up three flowering stems in suc-
cession, the first showing on February 4, 1903, It
'.s only (air to add that the roots had penetrated
nto some mortar rubble, and that hot-water pipes
were near by. The plant was a form of H. vittatum.
I can go even further, and add that plants sub-
jected to a few degrees of frost afterwards flowered
•as though nothing had happened to them, but I do
not for one moment recommend such treatment.
Hippeastrum brachyandrum is not a very tractable
plant for culture in pots. It is very irregular in its
flowering, and when once flowered it seldom
recoveri from the strain. To pit this plant as a
rival to Valotta purpurea is not saying much for
Valotta : for they are vastly different in colour of
flower, height, constitution and general effective-
ness. The growing of Hippeastrums in pots, to a
flowering size, is not to be recommended if there
is space sufficient to plant them in the greenhouse.
By the former treatment it takes three or more
years to flower plants from seed, while I have
flowered them in 22 months from seed by
planting out the bulbs. Spent tan, as a plunging
medium, is needless and expensive, and is not
always convenient to obtain. /. IF. Miles, Blen-
heim Gardens. ^

Hippeastrum Hybrids. — In the Gardrncys'
Chronicle for March 24, Mr. J. Douglas stated that
H. pardinum was introduced from the Andes
by Messrs. James Veitch and Sons, that
Mr. John Seden had crossed it (or H. Leopoldii
and produced H. Ackermani pulchernmum
(the origin of the latter, however, is not men-
tioned, as two are mentioned). Then H. Acker-
manni was crossed with the pollen of H. par-
dinum, and from this cross three very good
forms were produced, viz., Chelsoni, Brilliant,
and maculatum. One of the characters o£ H.
pardinum is a profuse spottedness, which no
other that I have ever seen possesses. H.
maculatum may have possessed some of it ; if
so, why has such a character been lost? I
have not seen any such feature in the plants
shown at the R.H.S. meetings, nor among the
splendid collections of Messrs. Veitch and Sons
and others. It is not impossible that many of
the crossings with the pollen of H. pardinum
were frhat we now call false hybrids, that is
hybrids that take after the mother parent only,
without a trace of the pollen parent, i.e., the
pollen never amalgamated with the ovules, but
merely started the ovary into growth, with the
ovules as buds, so that the "plants resulting
from the seeds would be equivalent to offsets.
Of this phenomenon I have had many experi-
ences. A cross that I have recently obtained
through the pollen of H. pardinum and a show
Hippeastrum has even more spotting than its
pollen parent, and in skilled hands might
initiate a new section. The cros.sings with H.
pardinum which Mr. Douglas mentions may
have been called hybrids, because the pollen
of H. pardinum was used in the crossings ; but
it does not at all follow that the so-called
hybrids had any pardinum blood in them.
There is a notion among enthusiastic florists
that in breeding plants the flower must conform
with what is called a florist's flower — a flower
of a certain form — otherwise it is rejected and
may be lost. In India I bred Hippeastrums
with petals so narrow that they resembled
certain C'rinums, and others so tubular that
they resembled the flower of a Solandra,
and they were all very interesting, but then I
was not breeding for profit. No commercial
horticulturist will be bothered with anything
that does not appear to have money in it. E.
Bonjvia, M.D.

CoRYLOPSis. — In my article on this genus
\ante, p. 19) I mentioned that the series of organs
between the stamens and the ovary had been
variously described as scales of the disk, glands of
the nectary, and staminodes. I have since been
able to examine fresh flowers of several species,
and I have now no doubt about their being nectari-
ferous or honey-secreting organs, which should
therefore be termed collectively a nectary and in-
dividually scales of the nectary. They might,
perhaps, with equal propriety, be termed nectari-
ferous staminodes or collectively a nectariferous
disc. Unfortunately the beauty of Corylopsis and
many other early-flowering shrubs has been sadly
marred by the occasional sharp frosts that we have
experienced.' W. Bolting Hemsley.

Tree-planting Days. — It would be a good
plan if parents and teachers would encourage the
children to plant one or more fruit trees, timber

trees, or flowering trees, or plant or sow veget-
ables or flowers (when they cannot plant trees), on
St. George's Day, or about April 24, and King
Edward's birthday, November g, for planting m
each via-. The subjects would then form good
object lessons. Gardeners might help them by
reminding them to do so. /. IT. 5.

Hydrocyanic Acid Gas and its Practical
Application. — I have used the gas in various
ways and under various conditions, but what
I have done is only a modified form of Mr.
Strawson's method. The enclosed photographs
illustrate the manner in which I have used the
gas. My apparatus is very simple. I get two
champagne bottles because they have long
tapering necks, then I make rough boxes in
which the bottles are placed, then two flat

Fig. 86.-

SIMPLE APPARATUS FOR CYANiriNG
PLANT HOUSES.

pieces of wood the size of an ordinary brick,
9 inches by 4+ inches, then two upright pieces.
The boxes containing the bottles are fixed to
the uprights to balance at an angle of about
45°. Then they are fastened down on bricks
with wire — this keeps them steady ; nails are
fixed on the end of each box to which a long
thin string is fastened, and two dishes are pro-
cured of sufficient capacity to hold the largest
quantity of acid and water required. Then, if
we are going to use the gas in plant houses, we
require two pieces of board, ^ inch thick, to
swing UD in the houses immediately over the

-.Uimt^d^

Fig. 87. — cvANiniNG apple trees for the

DESTRUCTION OF WOOLLY APHIS.

dishes, and to each of these another piece of
string is fastened ; this is all the apparatus re-
quired. We next mix the sulphuric acid with
water in the proportion of 2} ounces water 10 1
ounce acid. The acid must be poured gently into
the water. 'When it has cooled somewhat it can
be put into the bottles, in the corks of which two
V-shaped grooves must be cut to allow the acid
to come gently out. The next thing we require

is sodium or potassium cyanide ; if we use
sodium 130 per cent, we do not require as
large a quantity as we should of potassium of
98 per cent. Cyanide of potassium is more
easily obtained ; more of it must be used to make
up the proportion. I use sodium 130 per cent.
We will suppose we have now our acid and
water put into the bottles ; the next thing to do
IS to put the cyanide into the dishes, then
carefully take the strings of our bottles and
swinging boards, put them through the keyhole-*
of the doors, fasten the doors, then pull both
strings at the same time. The swinging boards
distribute the gas so that it does not reach our
plants in strong volumes. Swing the boards for
10 or 15 minutes. After about 40 minutes push
open the doors with a long rod, say 12 feet
long, and run away as quickly as possible.
After half-an-hour or more you will be able tc
enter the house with safety. The points to be
carefully noted are to let the temperature be as .
low as 50°, if possible, to ensure that the leaves
and the soil in pots are dry as possible.
The operation is best carried out at night or
on a dull day. Everything depends on the par-
ticular class of insect to be killed. As to the
quantity of material to be used, the Aphis will
not require as strong a dose of gas as Red
Spider, therefore we must use the gas accord-
ingly, as the proper quantity to use can only be
known by experiment ; and, then, as the gas will
not destroy the eggs, it is better to use it some-
what weak and repeat the process, because the
insects keep hatching out of the eggs. If the
temperature is kept low we mav use, for insects
easily destroyed such as Aphis, ^ ounce of so-
dium cyanide 130 per cent, up to Ij ounces for
Red Spider, per 1,000 feet of air space. I have
used this gas with good effect for the destruc-
tion of the woolly .\phis on Apple trees. -The
branches are tied together with ropes, -then
poles or boards are put up to protect the
branches, the whole is then covered with a
rick sheet (more airtight materia] -vwould be
better). When our gas generator is'-introduced
under the sheet, for every 1 ounce of sodium
cyanide I use 1^ ounces of sulphuric acid (sp.
gr. 1.8), water 2^ times the quantitiy of acid,
i.e., 3J ounces of water to 1^ ounces acid. 1
am quite certain that when the use of this gas
is better understood it will be employed in
every garden of note. " Soil Fumigation," an-
'jther of Mr. Strawson's works, will be sure to
come to the front for wire worms and ground
grubs. To repeat, keep the temperature low,
keep the leaves and the soil in pots as dry as pos-
sible ; take the greatest precautions not to inhale
the gas, and not to allow anyone else to do
so. /. G. Blakcy, Holmwood Gardens, Redditch.
Natural Selection. — I am much obliged
to Mr. Druery for his criticisms, as it gives me
an opportunity of trying to make my position
clearer by showing how he and others have mis.
taken it. I will take his last strictur; first, as
It really lies at the root of the whole matter.
He quotes my oft-repeated assert'oii that " Natu.
ral selection has nothing to do with the origin ot
species." I maintain this unhesitatingly, be-
cause Darwin's title, " The Origin of Species by
Means of Natural Selection," is misleading.
What he meant may be put thus. It is the sur-
vival of the best adapted to the new conditions
of life, among the offspring of some animal or
plant, under the struggle for existence. On the
other hand, there is supposed to be a destruc-
tion of all the individuals having "■ inadaptive "
variations of structure or variations not capable
of adapting themselves to new conditions.
Adaptive variations he calls '" favourable," in.
adaptive are designated as " injurious." But,
as a matter of fact, adaptive variations arise
without the presence of any inadaptive at all.
That Darwin meant "inadaptive" by "in.
jurious," and "adaptive" by "favourable," is
clear from his illustration of natural selection,
as a "noble and commodious edifice "- being
built of " accidental '' fragments of stone picked
up at the base of a cliff. The builder selects
those which are adaptive, but rejects all which
are "not fitted'' to b? of any use.* This pro-
cess shows that the word " or gin " meant no-
thing more than the " isolation " of a form by
the destruction of its kith and kin, so that a
systematist could recognise a sufficient amount
of difference in it from other species of the
same genus, to justify him in calling it a

• Origin of Species, p. 63 (51h Ed.). .Viiimais ».■ ' "l-ols
under Domestications ii u. 431.

April 7, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

new species. What I have been concerned with
for upwards of a quarter of a century is to dis-
cover how tlie changed conditions of life bring
about new variat.ons in structure in organisms ;
on which alone a new species is founded ; or,
to use Darwin's words, how their " direct ac-
tion" results in new and ''definite," i.e., adap.
live variations of structure. I maintain, there-
fore, that the word " origin " should be strictly
limited to this question. Mr. Druerj' illustrates
his criticism by referring to sports in Ferns.
Let a Polypody produce as manv sports as you
like. Mr. Druery cultivates them. There is
therefore nothing "injurious" or inadaptive in
their nature. In fact, he suggests some might
be called " species." It matters not, provided
they be constant by heredity — a sine qua noii for
a true species ! But being provided somehow
with sports, Mr. Druery adds : " Natural selec-
tion coming in as a factor and ousting the
parental form," etc., etc.t All this may be per.
fectly true, but what has it got to do with the
origin of the sports themselves? That is the
real question. Like Darwin, Mr. Druery does
not account for them. Now, Mr. Druery re-
gards " a smaller size and a smaller area of
foliage " in a seedling than those of its com-
panions in the pan as " injurious variations."
I demur to this ; for what is true for seedlings
mrst be true for adults. Thus when Ranunculus
repens invades grass and the latter perishes as
the former spreads, because its " area of foliage
is greater " than that of blades of grass, which
are smothered, then these must be " injurious "
structures in the grass. To avoid this confusion,
what I maintain is that in the struggle for exist-
ence one kind of plant survives under the par-
ticular circumstances, because it is better
adapted for the competition. But what Mr.
Druery describes as " variations " are nothing
more than " individual differences " due to semi-
starvation. Darwin, hov\ever, based his whole
theory upon individual differ. n.es. This, I con.
tend, was another mistake. Wallace takes the
same view. He distinguishes between " specific
and non-spe:if.c charactrs." . . . "Ihelat.
ter are due to laws which determine the growth
and development of the organism, and, there-
fore, rarely coincide exactly with th? limits of a
species. "t This e-xactly applies to Mr. Druery's
weak Eeedlings ; remove them and they will grow
all right. Mr. Druery makes another criticism,
and says that " specific characters are, as a
rule, present in the infant stage." They may be
in Ferns ; of them I can say nothing, but can
Mr. Druery tell the species of any grass in the
seedling stage? I do not recall a single species
described in Hooker's " Students' Flora," in
which details of the flowers and fruits are not
given as specific characters. Moreover, I am
discussing the origin of new species, not of long
existing ones. I will conclude with an experi-
ment in which '' Darwinism ' put in no appear,
ance, but "direct adaptation by response" was
uniform, while natural selection, metaphoricallv,
killed off all the weaker individuals. No greater
changed conditions of life (the first requirement
of Darwinism) can well be found for a species
than to live normally submerged, and then to
live in ordinary garden soil in air. I sowed the
seeds of the Walter Crowfoot, say, iiOO in
all. They all came up at different rates. They
all developed the dissected type of submerged
leaf, but with the whole anatomy changed in
adaptation to air ; subsequently the flcating type
appeared, then followed the flowers. There was
not a single individual with any inadaptive
structure (Darwin's "injurious variation"). The
more vigorous plants from starting first
smothered a good many later appearances, which
perished. On transferring some of t'r.e plants
to water, all the foliage perished at once, but
new foliage soon appeared adapted to a sub-
merged existence. Such is Nature's method of
originating species. George Hcnslow.

SOCISl^IEIS.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

AsvsTASiA BELLA — Garden Albitm , t. 12.
Cheikanthus M.PIKV=,— Garden Album, t. g.
Cherry, Frogmo're Early — Garden Album, X. 10.
CvPRlPEDlUM Boxalli var. NIGRICANS— Gflj-rfe;! Album,
March, p. 39.
Phal.ekopsis G'LORiosA—Garden Albttm, t. 11.

t I should like to know the name of any species which he
l3as observed to have been ousted by its oti'spring.

; Origin 0/ Species., p. 34. Fortnightly Revie:i', March,
189:, p. 444.

KOYAL HOETICULTUEAL.

April 3. — The display on Tuesday last at the
Hall in Vincent Square, Westminster, was very
interesting, though scarcely so large as on recent
previous occasions.

The Orchid Committee recommended Awards
to novelties, which included two First Class Cer-
tificates and si.\ Awards of Merit. The Floral
Committee's awards to novelties consisted of
eight Awards of Merit, five of which were for
varieties of Hippeastrum exhibited by Major
Holford.

The N.\RCissus Committee recommended
three Awards of Merit to seedling varieties.

The Fruit and 'Vegetable Committee had
nothing of importance to inspect.

At the afternoon meeting there were 74 new
Fellows elected, and an interesting lecture was
delivered by Mrs. Scott on " The Opening of
Flowers," illustrated by lantern and "animated"
photograph slides.

Floral Committee.

Present: \\ . Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. Jas. Hudson, T. W. Turner, Jno. Green,
C. R. Fielder, C. Blick, Chas. Jeffries, Chas.
Dixon, Chas. K. Pearson, Chas. K. Shea, W. P.
Thomson, W. Cuthbertson, E. H. Jenkins, Geo.
I'aul, H. J. Cutbush, Jno. Jennings, Geo. Gor-
don, and R. Hooper Pearson.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & So.vs, Highgate, Mid-
dlesex, and Barnet, Herts., had groups of the
very pretty polyantha Rose Mrs. F. W. Flight,
also of a new Rose of the same type named Mrs.
W. H. Cutbush, which has double flowers of
moderate size and rich pink colour. Between
the groups of Roses were also groups of excel-
lently-flowered plants of such Ericas as E. perso-
luta alba, E. erecta, E. Wilmoreana, E. Caven-
dishii, Boronia heterophylla, &c. There were
also Rhododendron Smithii aureum, and hybrid
Verbena F. .\. Bevan, having pink and fragrant
flowers. Messrs. Cutbush also showed Alpine
plants. We noticed Stylophorum diphvllum, a
Papaveraceous plant, with flowers resembling
those of Meconopsis integrifolia, but smaller,
and with foliage like Chelidonium. The shade
of yellow seen in the flower is deep and rich.
Other interesting plants were Chrysogonum vir-
ginicum, a dwarf Composite, with small Heli-
anthus-like flowers, Onosma alba, Anemone ver-
nalis, and Eurv^bia Gunniana, a shrubby Com-
posite resembling an Olearia. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Mr. Geo. Mou.nt, Rose Nurseries, Canterbury,
set up a charming display of Roses, which en-
tirely filled one of the long side tables. They
were staged in vases and in bamboo epergnes,
the flowers being well elevated on strong
growths, with splendid foliage — an index of the
quality of the flowers. Mrs. John Laing, Capt.
Hayward, Frau Karl Druschki, Mrs. John Laing,
I'lrich Brunner, La France, and many other of
the best decorative varieties were presented in a
manner that can only be described as excellent.
Several boxes contained other varieties in
smaller quantities, but in the same first-class
style. (Gold Medal.)

Messrs. F. Cant & Co., Braiswick Nurseries,
Colchester, exhibited a grand lot of Rose blooms
that appeared to represent a very large propor-
tion of new varieties. Some of the more attrac-
tive included Mad. Edmee Metz, a pretty flower
of pink colour, with shades of bronze ; Senateur
Belle, apricot colour and white ; Helene Guillot,
Monsieur Paul Lede, of very deep apricot colour
and pink ; Lady Roberts, which is now well
known (in excellent condition) ; Prince of Bul-
garie, of salmon and pink shades ; Le Progres,
a prettily shaped flower of apricot and salmon
shades ; the brilliant red-coloured Hugh Watson,
and others. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Paul c^ Son, The Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, N., had a small group of mixed sub-
jects. Rosa berberifolia Flardii was interesting.
The small yellow flowers are pleasing. A new
American Rose was worthy of remark. It is a
H.T. of beautiful form and of richest ro.se
colour. Weigela precox Fleur de Mai, Deutzia
gracilis carminea, and Cytisus purpureus in-
carnatus are other good things shown by
Messrs. Paul.

Messrs. Wm. r,vuL S: Son, Waltham Cross,
Herts., exhibited a new hv'brid Tea Rose named

Warrrior. The flowers are of a true rose colour
and their form is commendable.

Messrs. John Wateker & Sons, Ltd., Bagshot,
Surrey, showed a number of hardy hybrid Rho-
dodendrons in flower, including the lovely Pink
Pearl and Cynthia, its rival lor beauty. The
latter flowers are of rose-pink colour, with deeper
spots on the uppermost petals ; the trusses
are very large. John Waterer, neat, compact
heads of bright rose colour; Sappho, white, with
darker posterior petals ; and Mrs. Tom Agnew,
similar to the last-named save that yellow re-
places the chocolate markings, are also worthy
of mention.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, exhibited a collection of plants
in which the fragrant Rhododendron Veitchi-
anum was a prominent and attractive feature ;
also Crowea angustifolia, the greenish-yellow
flowered Corydalis Wilsoni in pots, and a group
of Cinerarias of the variety Antique Rose. This
Cineraria has flowers of a vivid rose colour — a
colour not familiar in ordinary collections of
Cinerarias. The plants come true from seeds,
and are also remarkable for their exceedingly
dwarf habit, some of them being not more than
4 inches in height, and the tallest not exceeding
8 inches. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. A. F. Dutton, Iver, Bucks., showed Car.
nations more beautiful even than on previous
occasions ihis season, a bowl of the variety
Enchantress being almost perfect specimens.
(Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Gilbert & Son, Dyke, Bourne, Lin-
colnshire, had a group cf Anemones similar to
those displayed by them at the last meeting.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, showed a number of small plants of
Clematis in flower, all useful for decorative pur-
poses both in the plant houses and in the dwell-
ing-rooms. Mrs. Geo. Jackman (white). Lady
Londesborcugh (pale lavender, with lighter
markings in the centres of the petals). Lord Gil-
ford, Marcel Moser (large flower, with rosy-
coloured nerves merging to pale rose). King Ed-
ward VII. (new), &c. Interspersed among the
Clematis were forced flowering shrubs, Prunus
triloba, Loropetalum chinense, Andromeda
speciosa, Azaleas, Ericas, &c. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, displayed a number of hard-wooded
plants. Ericas, Cytisus, Boronjas, Viburnum
tinus, Polygala, Acacias, &c. ; also Roses, Car-
nations, and Cyclamen, and a trained plant of
the charming Dorothy Perkins Rose. (Silver
Banksian Medal.) -t'

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nursery, Upper
Edmonton, staged a large group of the pretty
dwarf-growing Rose Madame Levavasseur and
its white confrere White Pet, all excellent little
plants for decorative purposes. Interspersed in
the group were many handsome Ferns, including
a gcK)d batch of .\diantum Farleyense. Plants
of Gardenia intermedia and Hydrangea rosea
also found a place in the exhibit. (Silver Flora
.Medal.)

Mr. A, R. Upton, Guildford Hardy Plant Nur-
sery, Millmead, Guildford, showed a small batcb
of Alpine plants.

Mrs. G. F. Wilson, Heatherbank, Wej bridge,
showed a number of blue Primroses.

Messrs. John Peed & Son, West Norwood,
London, S.E., had many pans of rock garden
and Alpine plants, and a number of Daffodils in
vases. Some good Pansies were noticed in this
exhibit.

Messrs. J. Garraway & Co., Durdham Down
Nurseries, Clifton, Bristol, staged a semi-circu-
lar group of Schizanthus — hybrids between S.
Wisetonensis and S. retusus. The plants were
well grown, and the flowers were of large size
and of many colours, but not so bright as is
sometimes seen in this very floriferous plant.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

M. Louis Gentil, Curator of the State Botanic
Gardens, Brussels, Belgium, sent two interesting
plants from the Congo district. The one was
an ornamental Sanseveria, with brindled green
foliage, and a golden margin. It is known as
S. Laurentii, and promises to become a useful
decorative plant. The other was Ficus Dry-
spondtiana, with large Anthurium-like foliage
possessing a pleasing red reverse. . (Botanical
Certificate.)

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. .A.lbans, exhibited
three specimen plants of Clerodendron myrmeco-
philum (figure in Gardeners' Chronicle, May 9,
1903, p. 291), and Cycas Micholitzii, first de-

22i

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Apkil 7, 1S06.

scribed and figured in our columns pp. 142-143,
August 19, 1905.

Mr. C. K. Fielder (gr. to Mrs. W. H. Burns,
North Mymms Park, Hatfield) displayed four
seedling Uippeastrums, all of which were nearly
pure white, but not equal in purity of colour to
" Snowdon " shown by the same raiser last sea-
son.

Major HoLFORD, Westonbirt (gr. Mr. Chap-
man), displayed half-a-dozen seedling Uippeas-
trums (Amaryllis), descriptions of five of which
will be found under Awards.

.Messrs. H. Cannei.l & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
showed flowers of Zonal Pelargoniums and others
of the new Impatiens Holstii, figured in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, p. 14, July 1, 1905. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

AWARDS OF MERIT.

Cycas Micholitzii. — This species from Annam
was first described by Sir William Thistleton-
Dyer, and illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle
for August 19, 1905. We need not again describe
the species, but as the Floral Committee be-
stowed an Award of Merit upon the plant, we
may say that it has high decorative qualities,
and may be recommended for cultivation in
the stove. On turning to the illustration al-
ready referred to, a good idea may be obtained
of the habit of growth, but the short brown
hairs and two rows of spines on the rachis are
not so obvious. The hairy character and the
slender form of the fronds, which are 3 feet in
length, give to them an appearance akin to that
of Ferns. Shown by Messrs. Sander & Sons.

Ilippcastrum Agamemnon.— A scarlet flower
with green, inside base, and a broad white band
extending half the length of each segment, be-
sides veining of white also.

Ilipfeastrum Brian Borv. — This flower is of
excellent form, very great refinement, and richest
crimson colour. It is the best crimson self-
coloured Hippeastrum we have seen.

Hippeastrum Field Marshal. — This is also a
self-coloured flower, but of less refinement,
though larger in size and of a peculiar shade
of colour, wliich may be described as a shade of
orange scarlet.

Hippeastrum Marjory. — A magnificent variety
with large scarlet flowers, having a thread-l.ke
white margin to each segment, and a green and
white inside base.

Hippeastrum Pearl Maiden. — A brindled or
mottled variety, in which the flowers are of ex-
cellent form and substance ; colour, claret red
and white. All the above varieties of Hippeas-
trum were shown by Major Holford (gr. Mr.
A. Chapman), and were among the iTest that
have ever been presented to the notice of the
Committee.

Rhododendron White Pearl. — This is a hardy
Rhododendron with large flowers, that in the
bud form are of deep rose-pink colour, but gra-
dually become fainter in tint until they are
almost pure white, except for a few minute red
spots on the upper segment. The pedicels are
not suiEciently strong to hold the b.rge flowers
■well up' towards the centre of the inflorescence,
but in other respects — pa:t.cularly in point of
;.he coloured buds and si^e of individual flower —
the variety is of very great merit. From Messrs.
W. CUTBUSH & Son, Highgate, who had several
good plants.

Thunbergia mysorensis. — This is a very old
Acanthaceous plant that is perhaps bet.cr known
in gardens as Ilexacentris mysorensis. It
makes a very showy climbing plant for cultiva-
tion in the warm greenhouse or stove, and pro-
duces long pendent racemes of purple and yel-
low-coloured flowers, the tube being purple and
the limb, which is \\ inch in length, \ellow with
reddish border. Shown by C. Buller, Esq.,
Warren Wood, Hatfield (gr. Mr. Aslett).

Narcissus Committee.

Present: H. B. May, Esq. (chairman), and
Messrs. A. Kingsmill, J. T. Bennett Poe, P.
Rudolph Barr, A. R. Goodwin, W. F. M. Cope-
land, H. B. Young, ]. Jacob, E. F. Bowles, R.
Sydenham, W. T. Ware, W. Poupart, Rev. G. H.
Engleheart, R. W. Wallace, G. W. Leake, Jno.
l^ope, W. W. Fowler, Jas. Walker, Miss E. Will-
mott, J. D. Pearson, W. Goldring, and C. H.
Curtis.

Miss F. W. CuHREY, Warren Gardens, Eis-
more, Ireland, displayed an excellent collection
of rare and standard varieties of Narcissi. The
flowers were beautifully developed, and ap-
peared wonderfully fresh and bright. In the
centre of the group were a number of white

varieties of'the large Ajax type ; thus there were
seen a charming vase of '\\hite Queen, a flowe:
that may be likened to a white Sir Waikin, wit.i
exquisitely frilled edge to the trumpet, and a
bold almost pure white perianth ; and i^ady of the
Snows, one of the best of last season's novelties.
The massive yellow King Alfred, of richest yel-
low colour, one of the largest and tallest growing
Daffodils; Glory of Nocrdwyck, another grand
Ajax ; Constellation and Lucifer, both ot the
beautiful incomparabilis type, and both set off
by their orange-scarlet coloured crowned
coronas; Firebrand (Burbidgei), with magnifi-
cent fiery-red cup, surrounded by a perianth of
perfect form ; Ariadne, with large spreading cup
of ivory-white, and lighter perianth, a most
dainty flower ; S. A. de Graaff, of the tridj'mus
section, a race from Tazetta x Ajax ; the double
Jonquil Campernelle, fragrant as well as beau-
tiful ; and the Pheasant's Eye, etc. (Silver Gilt
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, staged a small group of Daffo-
dils, of well-known varieties. Weardale Perfec.
tion, although not new, is hardly surpassed as
a trumpet Daffodil : Mad. de Graaff, described
as the queen of white trumpet Daffodils, etc.

Mr. Kendall, Newton Appleford, near Ottery
St. Mary, Devon, displayed flowers of King
Alfred. The specimens showed exceptional
vigour even for this robust variety, and the rich
yellow colour of both trumpet and perianth was
developed to a remarkable degree.

Mr. Robert Sydenham, Tenby Street, Bir-
mingham, again displayed a number of plants
nicely flowering in moss fibre litter.

From Sir Joseph Gore Booth, Bt., Lissadell,
Sligo (gr. Mr. J. A. Cooper), came a very well-
grown collection of flowers representing each
of the three sections. All the double varie-
ties of N. incomparabilis appeared to be pre-
sent, and fine Ajax Daffodils were seen in Vic-
toria (one of the boldest). Golden Bell, M. J.
Berkeley, Henry Irving, etc. Among the cup
Daffodils, " Oriflamme," with a pure white peri,
anth and rich orange yellow coloured cup was
conspicuously good. Of the Poeticus type we
noticed N. P. ornatus, Almira, and the best of
the three, which is " Homer." (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, W.C., also contributed a col-
lection of the varieties now in bloom. Close to
the old-fashioned but .'till popular Ajax varietv
Emperor was the more expensive " Peter Barr,"
also Lord Roberts, King A'fred, Duke of Bed-
ford, &c. A new seedling with white perianth
and very large yellow trumpet was as yet un-
named. The trumpet would probably be con-
sidered out of proportion to the flower. Love-
liness is not new, but as a pure white Daffodil
it appeals to us as one of the most charming,
partly on rceount of the somewhat vnusual form
of the slender trumpet. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

C. \'an Tudergen, Jr.N'., Zwanenburg Nur-
series, Haarlem, Holland, staged a large and
representative collection of Tul.ps. The gr.up
was extremely interesting on account ot the
many types and species it con'.ained. and as
shoM'ing the variety and wealth of the genus
Tulipa. The fantastic T. acuminaia, the Turk-
ish lulip, whose long petals are narrowed to
points ; T. viridiflora praecox, with greenish
flowers produced on long robust peduncles ; the
beautiful T. Micheliana, with heavy blotches of
black, margined Avith a yellow band in the cen-
tres of the flowers, that show well against the
lovely red of the petals ; " Sulphur Gem," a
yellow form of T. fulgens ; T. linifolia, re-
sembling nothing so much as a scarlet Ane-
mone ; Mrs. Moon, a choice yellow May flower-
ing Tulip of great substance ; Carnation ; and
Flackaert, a single early variety of massive prj-
portions, the bold crimson coloured flowers
quite the largest on the stand. (Silver Gilt
Banksian Medal.)

AWARDS OF MERIT.

Narcissus, Mrs. Robert Sydenham. — A white
trumpet Daffodil of great beauty, but of not
ovor-large size ; may be likened to an improved
Loveliness. The perianth is of fine form, and
possesses more substance than the older variety.
The trumpet is rather less white than the
florets, and is, moreover, well proportioned.
Shown by Miss Currey, Lismore, Ireland.

A'. Brillinncy. — We were unable to trace this
flower, as it was removed from the Hall soon

after the award was granted. It is described
by the raiser as an improved Barrii conspicuus,
with chalice of a beautiful shade of orange
scarlet. Shown by Rev. G. H. Engleheart,
Dinton, Salisbury.

A'. The Rising Sun. — This is one of the very
best formed trumpet Daffodils, as regular and
as symmetrical as any florist could desire.
The trumpet is expanded at the apex, and very
much frilled, and the colour of perianth and
trumpet is of the richest ye. low. Shown by Mr.
W. Welchman, Upwell, Wisbech (gr. Mr. Jno.
Scot).

Orchid Committee.

Present : J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the
Chair), and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec),
De B. Crawshay, R. Brooman-White, W. A. Bil-
ney, H. Ballantine, H. A. Tracy, W. H. Young,
H. G. Alexander, W. H. White, H. J. Chapman,
F. Menteith Ogilvie, F. Sander, R. G. Thwaites,
A. A. McBean, Arthur Dye, W. Boxall, H.
Little, J. Wilson Potter, and Francis Wellesley.

There was a grand show of Orchids.

The Society's Gold Medal was awarded to
Major G. L. Holford, CLE., C.V.O.j Weston-
birt, Tetbury (gr. Mr. Alexander), for a magnifi-
cent group of splendidly-grown and well-
arranged Orchids. The centre was filled with a
tall specimen of Cymbidium eburneo-Lowianum,
with 17 spikes, bearing together 107 of its large
ivory-white, rose-tinted flowers, and for which a
Cultural Commendation was awarded. On one
side of it was a noble specimen of the orange-
scarlet coloured Ada aurantiaca, on the other a
selection of the similarly tinted Masdevallia
Veitchiana. At the back were good specimens
of Vanda suavis and V. tricolor, many years in
the Westonbirt collection, and grouped at each
end was a very fine and varied lot of Odonto-
glossums. Other remarkable plants were Cym-
bidium Lowianum concolor, and the hybrid of
it, C. eburneo-Lowianum concolor ; a fine C.
eburneum, Laslia Jongheana magnifica, the
curiously-tinted L.-C. Dora, "Westonbirt
variety," Cattleya Empress Frederick, " Heaton
variety," etc.

J. Bradsiiaw, Esq., Southgate (gr. Mr. White-
legge), was awarded a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal
for a large and effective group, in which were
good Cymbidium Ballianum, C. Lowio-ebur-
neum, and other Cymbidiums ; a very fine selec-
tion of Lycaste Skinneri ; a number of finely-
flowered Oncidium concolor ; some excellent
Odontoglossums, including the pretty O. excel-
lens Lowiae ; and a good lot of Cattleya Trianae,
of which the variety Rajah, of the Backhousiana
class, with effective purple feather on the petals,
and C. T. Circe, of a delicate shade of rose-
pink tint, were lire best.

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn,
East Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), was awarded
a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for a fine group, rich
in rare varieties, and including the large and
beautiful natural hybrid Cymbidium I'Ansoni,
which was voted not only a First Class Certifi-
cate by the Orchid Committee, but also the
First Diploma as a hybrid Cymbidium. The
plant, like all the rest in the group, was splen-
didly grown, and consequently there was no diffi-
culty in improving on the Award of Merit given
when it was first shown, May 23, 1900. In the
group the varieties of Miltonia vexillaria, and
especially Chelseense, and the richly-coloured
Empress Augusta Victoria were fine ; Odonto-
glossum Wiganianum, O. amabile, O. nevadense,
O. Oerstedii, O. nebulosum, varieties of O
crispum, and others well represented ; also Den-
drobium infundibulum, Phalsenopsis sumatrana, '
&c.

Messrs. Ciiarlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, secured a Silver Flora Medal for a fin^
group, chiefly hybrids. Among the Odontoglos-
sums were home-raised O. excellens, O. Othello,
O. Hallio-crispum, and some pretty unnamed
hybrids. Of Brasso-Cattleyas there were the
pure wdiite B.-C. Queen Alexandra, the blush-
white B.-C. Digbyano-Schroderae, B.-C. Digby-
ano-Mendeli, and others. Other fine hvbrids
were Cattleya Enid, C. Empress Frederick,
Lselio-Cattleya Henri Nemy, with orange-
coloured flowers, L.-C. luminosa, L.-C.
Veronique, L.-C. Wellsiana, &c.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, were
awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a good group
containing two very beautiful and remarkable
plants (see Awards), and a generally good collec-
tion, among which were noted Zygopetalum
Sanderianum, a handsome flower, with sepals

April 7, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

223

and petals heavily blotched with chocolate-
purple, and bright blue lip. Laelio-Cattleya
Ernestii, yellow, with dark red marking on the lip,
Miltonia Bleuana, Renanthera, Imschootiana,
Epidendrum elegantulura, a iinely-fiowered
specimen of Laelia purpurata, the singular Poly-
stachya bracteosa, the new white P. liaroldiana,
the bright rose-red Cochlioda rosea, several Sar-
cochilus Hartmanni, Saccolabium bellinum, and
other interesting species,

Messrs. Jas. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham, se-
cured a Silver Flora Medal for a pietty and
effectively-arranged group, containing good ex-
amples of most of the Orchids of the season.
Notable among them were a selection of the
pretty Cattlcya Schroderse, and an allied variety
imported as a new species, and bearing a general
resemblance to a good C. Schroderte, but with
the lip formed like C. Trian^, and with a more
expanded fringed front. It is silver-white, tinged
with lavender colour, the lip being rose-pink,
with a very distinct shade of orange in the tube,
which does not open, as in C. Schroderse. Of
Odontoglossums there were a good selection of
O. crispum ; the large, yellow-tinted, finely-
blotched O. loochristyense Empress Frederick ;
a singular hybrid, with pale yellow, sparsely-
blotched flowers, not easy to describe ; some
bright rose Miltonia vexillaria, and yellow Onci-
dium concolor ; Selenipedium caudatum, the fine
Dendrobium nobile Heathii, and other Dendrc-
biums.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, En-
field, showed a group, in the centre of which was
a very fine specimen of Dendrobium crassinode,
with about 370 flowers, good D. Findlayanuni,
D. Pierardi, D. albo-sanguineum, the fine yel-
low D. Wiganije xanthocheilum, and other Den-
drobiums ; Odontoglossuin crispum Jeanette, a
good spotted form, O. crispum xanthotes,
'■ Low's variety," &c. (Silver Banksian Medal. |

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Loochristy, Ghent,
showed a small group of select hybrid Odonto-
glossums, including good O. Wiganianum, a very
finely-coloured O. Lawrenceanum, O. Kolfeae,
and its fine variety nigrescens, and others.

Sir Teevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr.
Mr. W. H. White), sent two marvellously-de-
veloped spikes of Phalsenopsis Aphrodite, taken
from a specimen with 18 leaves, and which has
been in the Burford collection 23 years. Also
the pretty Dendrobium amoenum, two finely-
flowered Masdevallia igneo-Estradae, raised at
Burford (see Awards!, and a pretty white Den-
drobium, provisionally named Shillongense,
and apparently D. lasioglossum.

Francis Welleslev, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr.^ Mr. Hopkins), sent Cypripedium concolor,
" Westfield variety," a strong grower and profuse
bloomer, larger than the type.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), sent a superb specimen
of Phaius Cooksoni, with 17 spikes of its beauti-
ful rose and purple flowers, and for which a
Silver Lindley Medal was awarded, as much for
the fine state of cultivation to which Mr. Chap-
man had brought it as for the sterling merits of
the plant, which was Mr. Cookson's earliest
success in Phaius, and still one of the best. Mr.
Cookson also showed the clear yellow Laelia De
Geesteana, " Oakwood variety."

De Barri Crawshay, Esq., Rosefield, Seven-
oaks (gr..*Mr. Stables), sent Odontoglossum
Terpsichore (Pescatorei X polyxanthum), the
finely-coloured O. polyxanthum rosefieldiense,
and the very beautiful and unique O. crispum
Queen of the Earth, a finely-formed flower,
heavily blotched with mauve-purple, as in O.
ardentissimum, and well-developed lip of true
crispum form ; also the handsomely-blotched O.
crispum Lionel Crawshay.

The Marquis de Wavrin, Chateau de Ronsele,
Ghent, sent Cattleya Forgetiana Hort., a singu-
lar variety, with elongated inflorescence of two
(lowers, bearing some resemblance to C. Bry-
meriana and to some of the C. Lawrenceana
crosses.

C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court (gr. Mr.
Duncan), sent the pretty spotted Odontoglossum
crispum Lucasianum.

Mr. H. A. Tracy, Twickenham, showed a
good variety of Cypripedium Katherine.

Col. Rogers, D.S.O., Sevenoaks (gr. Mr.
Usher), sent a fine specimen of Dendrobium
nobile. (Cultural Commendation.)
L. G. Sutton, Esq., Reading, sent D. nobile.
G. F. Moore, Esq., Bourton-on-the-Water (gr.
Mr. Page), sent Cypripedium Bridgei magnifi-
cura.

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, Chelsea,
showed Odontoglossum crispum Princess Ena, a
large white form, with fringed segments, and
several other finely-formed varieties.

AWARDS.
First Class Certificate.

Brasso-CiittUya The Baron (B. Digbyana x
C. Lord Rothschild), from Messrs. Sander &
Sons. One of the most beautiful and exquisitely-
tinted of the section yet shown ; large in size,
beautiful in form, and indescribably attractive in
the minutely elaborated freckling and veining of
its colours. Sepals j'ellowish-cream coloured,
slightly freckled with rose on the face and
tinged purple at the back. The broad petals
cream-white to primrose coloured, beautifully
freckled with purple between the veining. Lip
broad, widely displayed and fringed, pale prim-
rose-yellow, with a small emerald-green base, the
middle area being charmingly decorate4 with
rose-purple between the veining, a cream-white
band encircling the colour. Front cream-white,
slightly tinged with rose. A very remarkable
and attractive flower.

Cymbidittm VAnsoni (nat. hyb.), from Sir
Frederick Wigan, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. Young).
One of the finest and rarest Cymbidiums.
Flowers large, ivory-white, with a 'slight buff
lint, and indistinct purplish lines. Lip white,
and with a purple mark as on C. Lowianum.

Award of Merit.

Cattleya Trians J . Gurney Fowler, from
Messrs. Sander & Sons. A grand Cattleya, with
large and finely-formed flower. Sepals and
broad petals silver-white, tinged with lavender
colour. Front of the lip glowing crimson, disc
rich yellow, with lighter veining from the base.

Lirlio-C alt leva Hopkinsii (L.-C. Pallas X L.
tenebrosa), from Francis Wellesley, Esq. (gr.
Mr. Hopkins). A finely-coloured, brightly-tinted
flower, well showing both parents. Sepals and
petals bright purplish rose, with darker veining.
Lip large and crimped, ruby-red in the centre,
changing to purplish-crimson, and with a nar-
row lavender margin.

Masdevallia ignco-Estrade, from Sir Trevor
Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White). A
pretty and floriferous hybrid raised at Burford,
the specimens being differently tinted, some
cream white, tinged and veined with rose ; others
yellowish with purple markings on the veining
and purplish tails.

Ltrlio-Cattlcya illustris magnifiea (L.-C. Latona
X C. Dowiana aurea), from Messrs. Charles-
worth &' Co. A new and fine colour in Laelio-
Cattleyas. Sepals and petals reddish purple,
with an orange shade ; lip glowing ruby red with
an orange tint. A very bright flower.

Cymhidium Lowianum, " Fir Grange variety,^'*
from W. A. Bilney, Esc]., Fir Grange, Wey-
bridge Heath (gr. Mr. Whitlock). A very hand-
some, large, and dark-coloured variety, the
marking on the lip being of a scarlet-tinted chest-
nut red.

Odontoglossum perciiltum Meteor, from M. ChaS.
VuYLSTEJvE, Ghent. A pretty cross between
Rolfeas and ardentissimum. Flowers cream-
white, finely marked with purple.

Diploma Awards.

The competition was in Masdevallias and
Cymbidiums, and various exhibitors entered.

Masdevallia Species. First Diploma. — M.
Veitchiana grandiflora from Jeremiah Colman,
Esq, (gr. Mr. Bound).

Masdevallia Hybrids. First Diploma. — Mas-
devallia Booking hybrid, from Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart. Second Diploma. — Masdevallia
igneo-F.stradae, from Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart.

Cymbidium Species. First Diploma. — C. Low-
ianum, " Fir Grange variety," from W. A. Bil-
ney, Esq. Second Diploma. — C. grandiflormn
punctatissimum, from Jeremiah Colman, Esq.

Cymbidium Hybrids. First Diploma. — C.
I'Ansoni, from Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart.
Second Diploma. — C. eburneo-Lowianum, from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart.

cesses in the opening of various flowers. In
some cases the photographs were taken at in-
tervals of five minutes on a circular plate or
glass measuring 12 inches in diameter, and by
shov/ing these with a lantern, which accomo-
dates 350 photographs, turning the plate round
as fast as convenient, the various movements
were depicted just as the movements in a crowd
are shown by a system of animated photo-
graphy. Most of these processes are well
known to botanists, but the system of
photographing adopted by ilrs. ' Scott is
calculated to bring to notice circumstances
of scientific importance that have not ijre-
viously been brought to light. The first
plant shown was Sparmannia africana, which
was doubtless selected because the flowers and
flower stems exhibit more marked movements
than most other plants. Some of these can be
studied quite easily by the unaided eye. Next
was illustrated the wonderful revolutions of the
shoots and leaves of Maurandya in its task of
climbing around the stem of a tree. The illus-
trations of the gradual development and open-
ing of a Fuchsia flower, and afterwards of a seed
pod, were very realistic. After a Crocus had been
similarly e.i!hibited, Mrs. Scott showed her audi-
ence a lafge number of photographs taken of
Humble Bees on a flower of Scabiosa. The 340
photographs of the bees were taken in the space
of one quarter of an hour, and the revolution
of the plate before the lantern was sufficiently
quick to make the movements of the bee appear
as quick as those of a much more nimble insect.
For obtaining some of these photographs, Mrs.
Scott has had to be at work from 4.30 in the
morning until 12 o'clock at night. The results
she has succeeded in obtaining should encourage
others to take up the work, when by employing
a machine with a larger lens, commanding a
wider field, and one that would photograph ac-
curately by an automatic process, even greater
success might be expected.

DUTCH HORTICULTURAL AND
BOTANICAL,

March 14. — At a meeting held on this date,
the committee awarded First-Class Certificates \o
Cattle\-a Harrisonae, from Mr. H. C. Hacke,
Baarn ; Laelia Briseis (harpophylla x purpurata
alba), from the same exhibitor; Cypripedium x
Baron Senarclens de Grancy (seedling), as a new
plant, from Mr. J. H. TrompMeesters, Steenwijk;
and C. " Madame Budde " (superbiensx Leeanum'),
from the same exhibitor.

Certificates of Merit were awarded to Cypripe-
dium " Major Kikkert " (insigne x callosum) and
Odontoglossum Halli (leucoglossum fulgens), from
Mr. C. J. Kikkert, Haarlem; also to Cypripe-
dium Rothschildianum, from Mr, C. W, R.
Scholtenyr, Amsterdam.

A Botanical Certificate was awarded to Vanda
gigantea and to lonopsis paniculata, from Mr. C.
W. R. Scholtenyr, Amsterdam.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

March 22. — There was a moderate display of
plants at the meeting held on this date.

Philip Smith, Esq., Haddon House, Ashton-
on-Mersey, displayed a very good group of Den-
drobiums. (Silver Medal.)

Dr. E. Roberts, Hale, also; gained a Silver
Medal for a group of Dendrobiums, in which were
some choice forms.

Groups were also shown by Messrs.. S. Allen,
A. J. Keeling & Sons, and J. W.Moofe, Ltd.

J. W. MooEE, Ltd.. Bradfordi obtained a First-
Class Certificate for a distinct yellow form of
Dendrobium x Ainsworthii, called D. x Ains-
worthii var. aurifera. and an Award of Merit for
Laelio-Cattleya x Oricus.

P. Smith. Esq., obtained an Award of ^lerit for
I-,aelio-Gattleya x Cappeii " Smith's var," and
Dr. Roberts a similar award for a Dendrobium
seedling of unknown, parentage. .•'! -n-.,...-. •

OPENING OF FLOWERS.
Mrs. Scott delivered a very interesting lec-
ture, which was mainly a description of a large
number of photographs she had taken for tlie
purpose of illustrating, the movements , in the
tensitive plant (Mimosa sensitiva), and the pro.

NURSERY AND SEED TRADE ASSO-
CIATION, LIMITED.

March 26. — The annual meeting of the Associa-
tion was held on the above date; at its offices,
30, Wood Street, Cheapside, London, to consider
and approve of the report of the Committee of
.Management of the Association relative to the
work done for last year and to pass the accounts
for such period.

'224

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 7, 1906.

Mr John Harrison (Harrison Si Son, seed mer-
chants, of Leicester) was chairman, and members
consisting of Messrs. Nutting & Sons, Cooper,
Tabor & Co., Ltd., W. Paul & Son, W. Bull &
Son, Barr & Sons, Protheroe & Morris, Howcroft
& Watkins, B. Mailer & Son, and others were
present.

The report shows (i) That the Association con-
sists of 185 members, including many of the whole-
sale seed merchants, florists and nurserymen
of England, and on the Continent. (2) That the
Association by its Secretary had answered 1,084
trade enquiries by its members relative to the
financial position of persons seeking credit, and it
had expended £22. 17s. 6d. in making special en-
quiries through other Trade Protection Societies
throughout the United Kingdom with which the
Association is allied in addition to the information
gi\-en by its own members, which is given gratuit-
ously to assist each and its own records. (3) That
the Association had collected £5.51^. principally m
small debts, of which the members had been unable
to obtain payment. (4) The balance sheet for the
year shows that, after discharging all liabilities,
there was a balance of /'102 us. gd. to the credit
of the Association.

The Acts of Parliament for the Prevention
of Corruption and the Fertilisers and Feeding
Stuffs Act (1893) Amendment Bill, which have
been brought mto Parliament this year, and
which affect the trades, were referred to and dis-
cussed. Mr. N. N. Sherwood (Messrs. Hurst &
Son) was elected president, Mr. W. J. Nutting,
treasurer, Mr. H. Simpson (Cooper, Tabor & Co.,
Ltd.) and Mr. G. H. Barr (Barr & Son), trustees,
and a committee of management. The solicitors,
auditors, and secretary were re-appointed.

The committee in its report ask members to
solicit others to join the Association because : —
(i) It is purely on mutual principles. (2) Mem-
bers privately and without responsibility give,
through the secretary, information to the others
respecting the financial position of persons seeking
credit. (3) The Association expends its income
wholly for the benefit of its members. /. P.
Worrell, Secretary.

TORQUAY DISTRICT GARDENERS'.

Maech 29. — This society held a highly suc-
cessful show at the Bath Saloons, lorquay,
on the above date. The entries exceeded those
of any former show, and a high order of merit
was maintained by the exhibits. Orchids and
Gloxinias were esoecially good, and the group
of miscellaneous plants shown by IVIiss Laveks,
which was awarded the Silver Cup, and was
composed of Orchids, Amaryllis, Spi .kelia for-
mosissiraa, Tulips, Arums, Lilacs, Hyacinths,
Primula obconica. Hoop petticoat Narcissi,
Caladiums, Palms, and arching wands of flower-
ing Bamboo, fully 15 feet in length, was a note,
worthy sight.

Mrs. Congreve, Mrs. Hassall, Mrs. Trevor
Barkley, Miss Lavers, Capt. Tottenham, Mr. F.
Wingate, and Mrs. Fordyce were among the
winners of first prizes.

In the well-filled class for dinner-table decora-
tion, the chief fault was the occupying too much
space with flowers and foliage, this being es-
pecially noticeable in the first priz3 table.

Special prizes were offered by Messrs. Barr
AND Sons and other nurserymen, and classes for
vegetables were provided. A freak of Nature
was shown by the Dowager Countess of Craw-
ford in the shape of an Arum Lily flower with
two pure white leaves growing on the same
stem. The double spathe is by no means rare,
but it is not so common to find the leaves to be
devoid of colouring matter.

Nurserymen, by contributing well-filled
stands, did much to make the show a success.
Messrs, Barr and Sons staged a quantity of the
rarer Narcissi, amongst these being Isolde, King
Alfred, Lord Roberts, Peter Barr, Mrs. G. H.
Barr, Henry de Vilmorin, Firebrand, Cresset,
Strongbow, White Queen, Admiral Makaroff,
Calpurnia, Peach, Salmonetta, Cherry Ripe,
Loveliness, and Mountain Maid. They also
showed a collection of rock plants and herba-
ceous subjects, including several Frittillaries,
Epigea repens. Primulas, and Lithospermum
rosmarinifolium.

The Devon Rosary, Torquay, had a bright
stand with hundreds of cut Roses, Acacias,
Boronias, Tre; Carnations, Azaleas, Anthuriums,
Lilacs, and foliage plants, while from their fruit
farm they exhibited splendid Strawberries.

Messrs. R. Veitch and Son, Exet?r, had an
interesting assortment of plants, comprising
Camellias, Grevillea alpina, Darlingtonia cali-
fornica, Dimorphotheca Ecklonis, Corydalis
thalictrifolia, Impatiens Holstii, Sutherlandia
frutescens. Thy rs acanthus rutilans, and a collec-
tion of dwarf plants.

Messrs. W. B. Smale and Son staged Cyrto-
ceras refiexa, Nicotiana Sanderas, Tropajolum
tricoloruin, and other plants.

Elizabeth Cooper. — We regret to announce
the death of this lady, which took place on
April I, at 6, De Vere Gardens. Deceased was
the widow of the late Sir Daniel Cooper, Bart.,
G.C.M.G. Some of our older readers will re-
member that Sir Daniel Cooper was treasurer for
the great horticultural exhibition held in London
in 1866.

J. WiNDLE. — This old established Florist pas-
sed away at Balham on March 30, at the age of
77, from apoplexy. Mr. Windle was an indefatig-
able worker up to the last, and his kindly disposi-
tion both in business and among friends secured
respect from all who knew him. He has been a
regular attendant at Covent Garden market for up-
wards of 25 years. Among those he has left
behind are Mr. J. Windle, who for some years has
been salesman for Mr. H. B. May, and Mr. F.
Windle, salesman for Mr. P. Ladds. Deceased
leaves a widow.

LoTvupomknU

Botanic Garden : C. A. L. If you make appli-
cation to the Curator, Royal Gardens, Kew, you
will be likely eventually to obtain an appoint-
ment in those gardens, as you appear to be
eligible in every way.

Clover Roots Dying ; W. B. The plants are
attacked by a fungus — Sclerotinia trifoliorum.
See answer to C. G., p. 176, in our issue for
March 17.

Corrections: At p. 205 ic should have been
stated that the tree in question was planted by
Lord Mountnorris — not by Lord Mountmorres.
— In the article on Chinese Samshu on p. 194,
line II, "boiling husks" should have read
" barley husks "

Gardenias Failing : Hortus. There is no fundus
present to account for the diseased appearance
of the shoots, but the injury appears to be caused
by some external agency, such as burning or
scalding. Have you placed the plants near to
the hot-water pipes, or have the plants been fumi-
gated too severely ? Careless watering would
be likely to produce the same injury to the young
tissue of the shoots as your examples have.

Haricot Beans; G. C. The French Haricot
Beans are obtained from varieties of Phaseolus
vulgaris, or the same species as is represented
by Canadian Wonder and other varieties, the
pods of which we consume whilst they are in
only a partly developed condition. Some Hari-
cots are gathered just when the pods may be
parted easily, and others after they have attained
to their full size ; consequently commercial
Haricots vary much in their size.

Insects on Palm Roots : W. B. The white in-
sects on the roots you send are allied to the
mealy bug and are known as Ripersia terrestris.
When potting the plants wash the roots in a
solution of bisulphide of carbon, or if they are
already potted apply one tablespoonful of this
liquid to each 6-inch pot. Malie holes in the
soil with a pointed stake and pour the liquid
into these. Keep the liquid away from any
spark or light as it is very inflammable, and be
careful how you handle it.

Names of Fruits : C. E. Dursley. i, Dumelow's
Seedling (Wellington); 2, not recognised, prob-
ably a local variety.

Names of Plants : E. G. O. Pholidota imbri-
cata, one of the commonest Indian Orchids.

Sometimes called Rattlesnake Orchid in allusion
to the closely arranged imbricated bracts on the
inflorescence and their resemblance to the
"Rattle" of the Rattlesnake.— G. F. Teu-
crium fruticosa. — A . S. i , Pyrus (Cydonia)
japonica; 2, Forsythia suspensa; 3, Berberis
(Mahonia) aquifolium. — A. L. i, Dendrobium
Pierardi; 2, AbutilonmolUssimum (Sida mollis),
— ]. M. L. 1, Scilla sibirica ; 2, Chionodoxa
Lucilias var. ; 3, Scilla bifolia var. — Fairmilc. i,
Hoffmannia Ghiesbreghtii ; 2, Selaginella denti-
culata ; 3, Maranta zebrina ; 4, Chlorophytum
elatum variegatum. — Salop. Dendrobium fim-
briatum oculatum of the best type. — ] . IF. jB.

1, Bifrenaria Harrisonias ; 2, Oncidium luridum.
— W. G. S. A good form of Odontoglossum
Adrianae. — A. B. i, Physosiphon Loddigesii ;

2, Polystachj'a Ottoniana ; 3, Megaclinium
falcatura.

Pagoscope : D. J. The description you refer to
of this instrument was given in our issue for
March 4, 1905, p. 133. It is now on the English
market, and is made with the thermometric
scale in the Fahrenheit system for the benefit of
English growers. We have tested this instru-
ment for several months past and find it to be
quite reliable in its prognostications. The
suggestions we offered were that a larger recep-
tacle be made for the water trough of the wet
bulb, and that it be placed in the front and
not at the back of the instrument to iacilitate
filling.

Palm leaves withered: /. F. The injury is not
due to fungus disease, but results from the un-
suitable conditions for the plant in the dwelling-
room. Tl:-; leaves have the appearance of being
dried out. Thedry atmosphere obtaining in a liv-
ing-room, with perhaps inattention to watering at
the roots, are quite sufficient to cause the injury.
To eradicate grubs and eelworm from potting
soil, you should sterilise it by baking. If you
can wait for some time before using the loam,
you can also get rid of them by dressing it with
gas lime. We have heard good reports from
growers who ha\e used the vaporiser you
mention.

Primula cashmeriana ; A. J. The increased
size of the inflorescence is due to fasciation,
which is clearly shown in the stems. At the
same time we think the shade of colouring ex-
ceptionally good for this species, and the plant is
worth perpetuating for that quality.

Solanums attacked by mites: A. N. We fail
to find the mites you mention. You have proba-
bly mistaken the minute stellate hairs, with which
parts of the plants are covered, for these foes.
It will be better to dip the plants in tobacco water
rather than to give excessive fumigation, which
has probably caused much of the trouble.

Sweet Pea Society: IV. L. Horace J. Wright,
32, Dault Road, Wandsworth, is the hon.
secretary.

Tree P.ieonies: B. L. The choice varieties of
P. Moutan are usually propagated by grafting
them on the fleshy roots of P. officinalis and
other herbaceous species. But this is not the
only means, for it is also possible to propagate
them by layers and by cuttings. If cuttings are
employed they should be taken off in July with
a piece of the old wood attached. Insert each cut-
ting in a small pot containing sandy soil and
place the pots in an unheated frame or house
where the cutting can be shaded from
direct sunshine. During the winter the struc-
ture should be protected from the influence of
frost by covering, or even by the employment
of a moderate degree of artificial heat. Some
of the nurserymen, we believe, supply a few
plants on their own roots, but it is doubtful
whether they are in a position to do so in respect
to such varieties as have been quite recently in-
troduced from Japan.

Tulips Failing : A. D. W. The bulbs are attacked
with a Bacillus — B. hyacinthinus. Burn the bulbs
and take care not to plant fresh ones, or any
bulbous plant in the same beds next year.

Vine Diseased : P. R. C. Your vine is attacked
by the mysterious disease known as "brown-
ing," about the cause of which little or nothing
is certainly known. We should advise the en-
tire removal of the affected upper portion and its
destruction by burning.

Communications Received. — George Ellwood (next week)
— F. G. Heath-D. R. W.— E. H. J.— J. E. C— L. C.-F.
B.-G. L. N.-J. H. B.— H. F.— J. J.— R. \. L.-J. V.-C.
H. P. Muscat-F. W.— J. J. W.-G. B. M.— G. W.

For Market aiul Weather Reports, see pages xiv. ana 3V.

o

April 14, l£06-]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

225

THE

No. 1,007.— SATURDAY, April 14, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Alpine garden, the

235

Plant notes—

American Universities...

233

Abutilon megapota-

Books, notices of—

micum

237

Kew Bulletin

233

The Soapworts

'J37

Natural History of

Plants new or note-

Selborne

233

worthy-

Publications received

233

Primula deflexa

229

Cassiope hypnoides, a

Potatos in Shropshire

rare Alpine plant

226

and Staffordshire ...

232

Chinese conifers —

Pruning trees and shrubs

226

Tsuga yunnancnsis ...
Chrysantlaemum, a

236

Prunus triloba, pruning

of ... ... ...

2.33

large Japanese

_ 229

Swanley Horticultural

Colonial note —

College

233

Ceylon Botanic

Seakale disease

23S

Gardens

225

Seakale in the open

237

Conifers in Britain

233

Societies-

Debregeasia velutina ...

232

Cornwall Daffodil and

Fernery, the—

Spring Flower

239

A new form of repro-

Dumfriesshire and

duction in Ferns ...

229

Galloway Horticul-

Fir Grange, Wcybridge

tural

239

Heath :

227

Gardeners' Debating..

240

Garden in spring-time,

National Amateur Gar-

the

225

deners'

239

Grape thinnings

239

Surinam, the flora of ...

232

Hawfinches

238

Transplanting and seed-

Karr, Alphonse, a gar-

sowing

237

dener poet

240

Trees and shrubs-

Johannesburg, notes

Chinese Magnolias ...

234

from

236

Some species of Ilex

234

Lily, seed vessels of the

Species of Elasagnus

234

white

233

Week's work, the —

Market gardening,

Apiary, the

231

French methods of ...

229

Flower garden, the ...

231

Melons in winter

238

Fruits under glass ...

231

Michaelmas Daisies,

Hardy fruit garden ...

231

modem varieties of ...

235

Kitchen garden, the ...

231

Mistleto ...

238

Orchid houses, the ...

230

Nature study in Chester

233

Plants under glass ...

•230

Parrya Menziesii

238 1

Xanthorrhaea Preissii ...

228

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Ash tree, a young, when properly pruned

227

Cassiope hypnoides

226

Cystopteris montana with

proliferous fronds

229

Debregeasia velutina (Supplementary Illustration).

Tsutja yunnanensis. a Ch

nese species

236

Xanthorrhsa Preissii flowering at Kew

228

SPRING IN THE GARDEN.

IT is not until tlie advent of April tliat we
realise the full significance of the spring'.
After the comparative sterility and deso-
lation of winter — though even then
Ll'ere is root progression under ground — this
mild and beautiful season of the vear, with
its sudden sunlight and silver}' showers, is a
veritable revelation. We realise that

" Nature," in the memorable words of Cow-
per, " is but a name for an effect, whose
cause is God." I sometimes think that
Natural Religion is more strongly inculcated
in the earnest mind by means of the gentle,
beneficent influences of horticulture, than in
iiny other way; that we can still, like our
First Parents, see God walking in the garden
in the cool of the day. April, with her odour
of flowers, her music of birds, and her mar-
vellous transformations in the earden and in
the grove, makes this earth of ours seem a
green and fragrant Paradise, like that which
inan through disobedience lost of old.

At this exquisite season, when all things
around us sccni to wear the freshness of ever-
lasting youth, nothing is more intenselv in-
teresting than to watch the development of
the flowering trees. In my own garden,
Prunus Pissardi, the Persian' Plum, h'as been
for some time in sjilcndid bloom. So far as

I am aware, this beautiful tree does not bear
fruit in Scotland, but its blossoms and leaves
—the latter especially, of deep chocolate col-
our— are highly ornamental. Another ob-
ject of supreme fascination, which may be
termed the successor of Prunus Pissardi, is
the Japanese Pyrus Maljs floribunda, whose
colour much resembles that of a miniature
Apple, the pink hue, in this instance, being
somewhat intensified, and therefore, by
reason of its blossoming lu.xuriance, very
effective. Here it has succeeded adinir-
ably, even in a somewhat too shady situation.
Fruit trees are further advanced this season
than they have been for many years. Even as
I write, in the beginning of April, such Plum
trees as the Czar and Victoria, and such
Cherries as the Early Rivers, Black Eagle,
and Morello (of which the last-mentioned
likes a northern aspect) are already preparing
to unfold their snow-white, freshly-fragrant
flowers. The Alinond tree which adorns the
centre of my garden has reached a similar
stage of evolution, and promises to excel all
its former achievements. Apples are also,
considering the recent frost, surprisingly ad-
vanced; such varieties as the Irish 'p'each
and Beauty of Waltham, which already are
revealing their tender beauty in the bud, may
pcssibly be contemporaneous, for the first
time, with the Cherries and the Plums.
.A splendid profusion of blossom may con-
fidentlv be expected on all fruit trees;
undoubtedly the result of the beneficent in-
fluence of last summer, in ripening the wood.
For a similar reason our Roses will also be
luxuriant, and, meanwhile, they are growing
with marvellous rapidity. This is especially
characteristic of certain fine varieties of re-
cent introduction, such, for example, as
Florence Pemberton, and Frau Karl
Druschki, two of the grandest creations of
the last decade; Etoile de France, described
as the result of a cross between Fisher
Holmes, which it somewhat resembles, and
Mdme. Abel Chatenay ; Duchess of Portland,
Dr. William Gordon, the dark-complexioned
Maharajah, raised at Colchester, and my own
vigorous namesake from Messrs. Wm. Paul
and Sons, at Waltham Cross. The gradual
development of such varieties is intensely
attractive ; at this season there is a wonder-
ful fascination in their delicate shoots and
radiant leaves. These, indeed, constitute, to
the artistic imagination, one of the greatest
beauties of the vernal garden. Are not
flowers themselves, as the great poet Goethe
demonstrated, the fair children of leaves, har-
moniously united for the purpose of perpetu-
ation ? David R. Williainson.

Observations on the time 'when the flowers
of the various hardy fruit trees grown in the
United Kingdom expand not only possess
considerable interest but they have also an
importance of special value. It is rare that
we experience a long continuance of frost or
other unfavourable conditions at this time of
year, and if the period of flowering be exten-
ded over several weeks, some of the blossoms
are almost certain to escape and thus pro-
vide at least a partial crop. It is one of the
advantages of having a collection of several
varieties which is not sufficiently recognised,
for there is a wide difference in the time at
which the flowers open. For example, the
extreme range noted in .Apples covers six
weeks, in Pears four weeks, in Plums about
three weeks, and in Cherries a fortnight.
This is in the same season and in the same
ground, but slight differences of situation and

aspect will prolong or shorten the times of
expansion materially, and in different years
the actual period may vary by some weeks.
Specially late or early s-^sons, however,
affect all the varieties in a measure, though
not to an equal extent.

The late Mr. William Paul kept close ob-
servations on the flowering of ,\pples over a
series of years with most interesting results
in relation to their cropping. Mr. J. Wat-
kins, of Hereford, has also taken notes for a
dozen years or more in a large collection of
varieties, chiefly Apples, Pears, Plums, and
Cherries. Mr. J. Udale, in the Experi-
mental Garden at Droitwich, has kept a
record of the flowering of the fruit trees there
during the past 14 years, and the Reports
published possess much interest. The sub-
ject has had my attention for a long period,
and I have accumulated many notes and ob-
servations upon the behaviour of the same
varieties and the same individual trees over
a series of years. I am convinced that it
would pay fruit-growers to give more atten-
tion to the matter. There is one notable ad-
vantage connected with having i-.tricties
which flower at different times, it does not
restrict us to any special season of ripening;
early flowering varieties are not necessarily
all early fruiting, nor are all late flowers cor-
respondingly late in maturing their fruits.
Indeed, there seems to be very little, if any,
connection between the two functions, at
least as regards the trees; in Strawberries
and bush fruits some relation is observ-
able. Notes should be taken (i) when the
first flowers expand ; (2) when all are open ;

(3) when the first petals begin falling; and

(4) when all the petals have fallen. This
would give a complete record for each var-
iety in the particular place. At present some
state only when the first flowers open, and
others when the trees are in full blossom,
and this gives rise to some divergencies of
dates with difficulty of comparison. L.
Castle.

COLONIAL NOTE.

THE CEYLON BOTANIC GARDENS.
An illustrated guide to the Royal Botanic Gar-
dens, Peradeniya, has lately been issued by the
curator, Mr. Hugh F. Macmillan. It opens with
a brief historical sketch of the garden, giving
the names of successive directors, of v?hom
Gardner, Ttrwaites, and Trimen were -well
known to readers of this journal as valued cor-
respondents. A description of the gardens as
they now are is given, together with an itinerary
which will enable visitors to see with the least
expenditure of trouble all the principal features
of the garden, including the famous Indian Rub-
ber trees and giant Bamboos which have been
figured in our columns. The illustrations are
numerous, and, though small, are excellent,
and serve to convey to the untravelled reader
some idea of the beauty of the garden and the
luxuriance of its tropical vegetation. The gar-
dens are at an elevation of about 1,600 feet
above the sea-level, and have a moist but
equable climate, the mean annual temperature
being 76 degrees F., the thermometer falling
sometimes as low as 55 degrees. The rainfall
amounts, to about 89 inches, distributed over 170
days. As this little book is intended for the
casual visitor, but little is said of the work done
in the laboratory and herbarium by the highly
efficient staff, nor is much said of the services
the gardens and their adjuncts render to
economic botany and agriculture. The guide
is excellently got up, and is very attractive.

226

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Ap?.il K, 1':03.

CASSIOPE (ANDROMEDA)
HYPNOIDES.

Although grown in Britain in 1798 — prior to
any other species of this genus— Cassiope hypnoides
is to-day one of the rarest hardy plants in gardens.
Not long after the above date, the plant disap-
peared from cultivation. In 1826 Canadian speci-
mens were sent home and found their way to the
rich collections of the Comely Bank Nurseries,
Edinburgh.

This Cassiope is the smallest and most delicate
of the three cultivated species of this genus, C.
tetragona and C. fastigiata, both at home here,
being larger plants, easily distinguished from the
first-named by the square appearance of the much
branched erect shoots, owing to the four-ranked
arrangement of the closely imbricate leaves.

The late Prof. Graham in figuring and describ-
ing Edinburgh specimens of Cassiope hypnoides in
ihe Botanical Magazine {oriSzgit. 2936), suggested
that a plant so frequent in the North of Europe
(it is also in Northern Asia and America) might
one day in the North of Scotland reward the
labour of some Scottish botanist, but, although
Bryanthus taxifolius (Menziesia ccerulea) , f requen l-
ly an associate of Cassiope in Norway, &c., just
penetrates into Scotland, the latter genus is un-
represented here.

Visiting Mr. Boyd, of Melrose, last spring, I was
shown an excellent example, growing and flower-
ing freely in a cold frame (see fig. 88) . The slender,
creeping stems, thickly clothed with subulate
leaves, only rise from ^ to 2 inches in height,
unless drawn up by the influence of glass or sur-
rounding vegetation, &c. The white corollas oi
the solitary drooping flowers are prettily ' ' set
off " by the red calyces and stalks, and open in.
this country usually during April and May ; abroad,
they are somewhat later. Cassiope hypnoides is
a peat plant, and when imported, often arrives
mixed with Asiatic Salices and others, which, being
diminutive, are good company. Too often the
plants are scraped up, and then they usually die.

When planted in the open, artificial watering is
necessary during dry weather. A north or east
aspect is chosen here, where Ericas form a shelter
on the sunny side. Such shrubs, provided they
do not overhang the Cassiope, afford better and
more natural surroundings than rock alone.
Layered shoots are obtained naturally ; cuttings
are rather slow at first, and require a considerable
time to grow into effective plants. D. S. Fish,
Edinbuivh.

PRUNING TREES AND SHRUBS.

The art of pruning, as applied to ornamental
trees and shrubs, may be said to serve one or
more of the following purposes : — To improve or
alter the shape and appearance of the plant ; to
increase the quantity and improve the quality
of the blossom ; to bring about an improvement
in health. Of all the arts that are employed in
horticulture pruning is the one most frequently
misapplied. Its proper practice necessitates an
intimate acquaintance with the habit and nature
of the subject operated on. For instance, a col-
lection of flowering shrubs cannot be pruned
properly unless the pruner knows the time of
flowering of each one. Again, the aim in pruning
a large-growing tree is to make it as perfect a
specimen of its kind as is possible, and, at the
same time, to preserve its peculiar characteris-
tics. Therefore, a knowledge of its size and
habit is essential. Unless the operator possesses
such knowledge the plants are best left alone,
lor bad pruning is worse than none.

Pruning for Shape.
Pruning for the purpose of regulating the
shape and size of a tree or shrub is more often
practised in order to maintain it in some con-
ventional form, such as is seen in topiary work,
clipped hedges, rounded or pyramidal bushes,
&c. This kind of pruning is of the simplest form ;

as a rule it is merely a process of clipping.
Such matters as time of flowering and habit of
the plant are of no moment. The chief qriestion
is, when is the best time to prune?

Fully-grown hedges or bushes of Yew, Holly
or Box are usually clipped in July or August.
During these months work in the garden is, as a
rule, less pressing than at other times, and these
summer months are as suitable as any other.
The plants, moreover, retain their neat appear-
ance throughout the autumn, winter and spring
months. With young hedges more careful pro-
cedure is necessary. The clipping should be
done earlier — say, in June ; and a second
shortening back of stronger growths take place
in September. This more frequent pruning is
necessary in order to give a thick base to the
hedge or bush. When old hedges need cutting
back to the bare wood, as they occasionally do,
the work should certainly be undertalien in
spring, so as to allow the longest possible period
for the naked places to become furnished w-ith
growth again. The inside branches of a hedge
or clipped bush are necessarily stunted and
gnarled, and do not readily break into new
growth. The same rules, as to time of pruning,
apply also to those level banks of Laurel-Cherry
and Rhododendron so often employed to furnish
«hady plaC ,'s in gardens. The ordinary animal

sire a noble contour of branch and foliage, or a
lofty tree, with its leafy canopy reaching to the
ground ; but the production of cubic feet of
timber is, in itself, merely a secondary matter.

However, I am not now concerned in advocat-
ing, much less defending, the practice of prun-
ing large-growing trees, but wish to describe the
proper methods, and to indicate the results those
practices bring about. If the arboriculturist does
not like the type of tree this kind of pruning
produces, there is no more to be said. I may,
however, state that it is adopted in most of the
great tree collections of the present day, both
public and private. ^

In pruning such trees as I am now considering
— the Oaks, Elms, Ashes, Maples, Chestnuts, and
others of a similar type — it is rare'ly necessary
to give any consideration to the production of
flowers and fruit. The flowers are frequently of
little beauty, and even in the case of beautiful
flowering trees, such as the Horse Chestnut,
such pruning as is required should be don© be-
fore the trees reach their adult stage. Indeed, it
may be said of all trees that the earlier the
training is commenced the less of it will be
necessary.

The Formation of the Tree Trunk.

In the great forest areas of the globe, trees are
generally found growing in masses and as close

Fig. 88. — cassiope hvfnuiues.

pruning may be done in July or August, but the
occasional hard cutting back must be done, say,
in March or April.

Pruning Trees.

This branch of pruning is more important than
the preceding, but is not so generally under-
stood, nor so often practised. The great ma-
jority of trees are planted and left to assume
such forms as conditions and circumstances per-
mit. I need not enter into any elaborate defense
of the practice of pruning the larger-growing
trees of our parks and gardens, although that
practice is by some writers violently opposed,
and of all the arguments that are employed
against it the most absurd is that it is an inter-
ference with Nature. To such critics a sufficing
answer is that the art of gardening itself is
essentially and almost entirely an interference
with Nature.

There is, moreover, a mistaken idea prevalent
that pruning such as I am about to discuss is
recommended for trees grown for timber. This,
however, is not the case. Forestry pure and
simple is a thing quite apart from opnamental
arboriculture in park and garden. The forester
aims solely at building up a trunk which will
yield the maximum amount of useful timber and'
occupy the least possible space. The main ab-
ject of the arboriculturist, however, is to so
control the growth of his trees as to produce
individually beautiful specimens. He may de-

together as their mmiumm requirements of light
and space permit. The trunks, which the fones-
ter loves to obtain, are straight, erect, and
naked. Only occasionally are there found wild
specimens well filled out on every side, evenly
balanced, and, perhaps, furnished almost to the
ground with foliage, such as is generally the
planter's aim in pleasure grounds and gardens.
In these latter places, however, where often trees
from many different parts of the globe are con-
gregated on a few acres of ground, and planted
singly or in small groups, many species,
especially those of exotic origin, have a ten-
dency to become unduly bush-headed and dumpy
in appearance, and to lose that stateiirjess which
properly-proportioned height and breadth give.
The first aim in pruning is to prevent this de-
formity, and to obtain a straight, strong trunk
or centra! axis of sufficient height. '^

There is also another consideration. No dan-
ger to big trees is so common as that which
arises from the forking of the trunk. This
divides the tree into two, three, or more parts,
which do not always sway in unison during high
winds, in consequence of which a crack starts
sooner or later at the fork. Damp enters, fun-
goid parasites follow, alid finally a .sturni comes
which rends the tree in twain. In sheltered
places and in plantations the danger from winds
is not great ; but the majority of our specimen
tiees are given space for their fullest develop-
ment, and need a strong, single bole.

April 14, IGOo.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

227

Most persons admire loftiness in trees, but
height in isolated specimens adds to the risk of
damage by wind, and an observer will find that
trees of great age and size are comparatively low
and spreading, or, if they are lofty, their trunks
aie undivided for the greater part of their length.
All the lofty trees of the earth have this charac-
ter— the Gum trees of Australia, the Pines, Firs
and Sequoias of North America, and the Palms
of the tropics.

To secure the production of a trunk of this de-
scription it is necessary to keep a watch on it
when it is young. The first and most important
point is that it should always be kept to a single
leading shoot. As long as the top of the tree
remains accessible to the pruner, rival leaders
should be shortened back or removed ; but if the
original leader by accident gets broken it should
be replaced by another shoot.

In most of our deciduous trees a suitable side
shoot near the top can usually be selected to
replace a broken leader. It should, if necessary,
be brought into position by tying to a stake, and
must be encouraged to make headway by pruning
back other shoots near that might otherwise as-
sume the lead.

Many Conifers, especially those of the Spruce
and Fir tribes, produce their branches in regu-
lar tiers or whorls ; a lateral branch is, therefore,
of no use for replacing a lost leading shoot. The
branches are, as a rule, not capable of transform-
ing themselves into erect-growing shoots, and if
one be tied up it always tries to regain its origi-
nal drooping or horizontal position. Propagators
of these Conifers experience the same difficulty
when they attempt to increase their stock bj'
rooting or grafting the side branches. To ob-
tain a new leader for these trees the broken one
should be cut off close to the uppermost tier of
branches, and this tier and, in cases, the whorl
below also must be very much shortened back.
This will cause the cut-back leader to push out
one or more shoots of the erect-growing kind.
When strong enough, the most vigorous of these
may be selected as the new leader, and the others
removed.

When a tree has reached, say, half its natural
height it may be left to itself, for it will nearly
always be found that once a strong leader has
developed this will keep its place, providing no
accident occurs, for as long as the natural habit
of the tree allows.

Side-Pruning.

The greater proportion of the trees used for
furnishing our gardens are of exotic origin.
Species from all the cool temperate regions of
the globe, inhabiting, in their native state, every
rariety of position and climate these latitudes
afford, are brought under practically uniform
conditions in the few acres of a British garden.
It happens, therefore, in even the most favoured
places, that some of the trees are not given the
conditions most suitable to them. The effect
(especially on species from somewhat warmer
countries) is often shown in a tree assuming a
stunted, bushy habit under cultivation, whereas,
in its own home, it is lofty and graceful. In such
cases it is the work of the pruner to aid the tree
in assuming its natural form.

This can be done by two methods. The hori-
zontal development of such trees, as opposed to
their vertical development, should (1) be checked
by pruning back the side branches. The cut
should, as often as is possible, be made at the
region of a fork, so as to leave a smaller branch
with its twigs, rather than a stump. The opera-
tor's judgment should also be exercised as to
whether (2) a proportion of the branches should
not be entirely removed. A comparison of the
number of branches on a young tree with those of
a fully-grown "ispecimen of the same species
shows how drastically Nature thins the branches.
The pruner should be guided by this fact in such
cases as those under discussion, and remove too
crowded branches. As a matter of fact, ex-
perience has conclusively proved that a tree may
be brought out of its stunted state and made to
jrow again in height by this process alone.

The importance of shaping a tree into, its
proper form when young cannot be too strongly
insisted. There is much truth in the saying that
" most pruning should be done with a pen-
knife," meaning thereby that it saves trouble to
remove superfluous and wrongly-placed growths
whilst the shoots are still succulent twigs. With-
out developing a rigid formality of outline, a
young tree should, nevertheless, be kept, in the
main, to a pyramidal shane.

Fig. Sg — prusi.xg trItEs and shrubs — •

A YOUNG ASH TREE. (See text.)

The pruning of specimen trees may be sum-
marised thus : Keep thiem to a single lead ; thin
- out and. shorten back tlie branches of stunted or
unduly spreading specimens ; preser\'e, in the
main, a pyramidal shape whilst they are young.
When once the base of a trunk has been de-
veloped sufficiently the tree may be left to as-
sume that natural .shape and outline characteris-
tic of the species to which it belongs.

The tree represented in fig. 89 is a young Ash
which has been trained to one leader, and which
has, in consequence, formed an erect, straight
trunk now some 40 feet high. At this stage it
can be left to itself, and if it grows well and no
accident happens will make a fine, well-
balanced tree. The outline is pyramidal, but
not, I think, formal or ungraceful. I consider it,
in fact, the normal shape of a healthy and
vigorous, quick-growing, young tree. This ques-
tion of shape or outline is, however, one upon
which people disagree. Where symmetry and
balance end and mere formality begins is a
matter which must be left to individual taste
and judgment. W. J. Bean.

(To be contimud.) -.

FIR GRANGE, WEYBRIDGE
HEATH.
Time has put its softening hand on the exten.
sive and beautiful rock and " wild " garden
which Mr. W. A. Bilney has, during the last
few years, been carefully elaborating in the
tract of Pine-tree clad land acquired by him at
Weybridge Heath. On the highest part of the
ground is the pretty and convenient residence,
with conservatory outlet beside it. On one side
of the house is a dense growth of Choisya ter-
nata, one of our most beautiful evergreens, and
perfectly hardy notwithstanding the fact that it
is a native of Mexico. In the conservatory, on
the roof of which Roses are blooming, are
Azaleas, Cytisus, and other flowers.^ Outside
are beds of spring flowers, now in perfect
beauty, while patches of Crocuses and Narcissi
appear in the smooth, well-kept lawn. In
planting spring flowers on the lawn, Mr- Bilney
deems it important to place each section in a
different place. Thus, when the Crocuses are
out of bloom, the grass in which they are grow-
ing can be mown, but were they mixed with
later flowering bulbs, the unsightly withered
foliage would have to remain until the flowers
of the succeeding batch was over. Nearest the
house is the new garden, with stepping stones
between the rock-arranged sides. In this garden
may be seen the plan which is carried out in
every other part of the same gardens and
grounds. Every important subject is massed by
itself and not mixed with other species. In this
way full effect is given to the individual beauty
of each variety, and monotony, which is the
bane of mixed planting, avoided. Patches of
Chionodoxa Sardensis, C. Alleni, Chionoscilla,
and Scilla Sibirica give bright blue tints, while
S. Sibirica alba and other bulbous plants of the
same colour furnish masses of white bloom.
Androsaces are beginning to flower, Muscaris are
fully out, and at intervals patches of the leading
Narcissi are well displayed. Saxifragaopposi-
tifolia and its white variety cap some of the
mounds ; Adonis vernalis is well in bloom ;
Daphne Blagayana and other spring Daphnes are
in flower, and the earlier Iris, of the I. reticu-
lata class, brighten the scene with their patches
of dark blue colour. Here Gentiana verna gives
a good show of flowers, and G. acaulis, to come
later, is well set with buds. Connecting the
new with the older garden are passed patches
of Anemone blanda and Ramondia pyrenaica.
In the older rootery garden Primula Sieboldi
promises a good show ; Shortia galacifolia is in
bloom ; and the Trilliums are showing strongly
for flower. The walks wind beneath the Pine
trees, and the rock gardens are everywhere
backed by shrubs, climbing Roses over dead
Pine trees being placed at suitable points.. In
one part a fine group of Rhododendrons encircles
collections of Spiraeas and othei flowering
shrubs. Beyond is a miniature waterfall, rivulet
and lake, planted with suitable plants. Iris
Kcempferi varieties and Phormium tenax being
prominent. Continuing round the undulating
walks, varieties of Rosa Wichuriana, clumps of

228

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 14, 190C.

Azalea mollis, and plantations of Bamboo and
other sections of ornamental shrubs appear.
With reference to these, and especially to
Hydrangea paniculata and the Bamboos, Mr.
Bilney states that it is a common belief that
large supplies of water are constantly needed.
His experience, gained on the shallow, sandy
soil of this garden, is that if the ground is
mulched, the moisture obtained during winter
and spring is sufficient. In one place Ompha-
lodes verna is finely in bloom ; then follow
large patches of Narcissus minor minimus and
N. cyclamineus. Beyond, Pernettyas, Gaul-
therias, &c., flourish in the low ground. In the
dell Helleborus orientalis varieties and other
Christmas Roses are well in bloom, beside
an arch formed of old plants of Rhododendrons.
Close beneath the trunks of some large Pines
are fine tufts of hardy Cyclamen. These are
planted mixed, the varieties of C. Coum being
partially sheltered by the larger-leafed C.
hederaefolium. The Coum section flowers in
early spring, and the C. heder^folium later, so
that a prolonged season of bloom, with other
advantages, are assured. Foxgloves, among the
commonest, and most beautiful of hardy flowers,
are grown in profusion, together with a few of
the rarer species of Digitalis. Aconites, Del-
phiniums, Irises, Frittillarias, &c., are seen in
large batches. The Crown Imperials aie send-
ing up strong flowering spikes, and the smaller
species, such as F. pudica, give great variety.
At one point a specimen of Rhododendron
Nobleanum has just furnished a fine show of
twenty-seven trusses of bright red-rose flowers.
This and the other hybrids of R. arboreum are
the earliest and brightest of our showy Rhodo-
dendrons, but the florist has almost discarded
them for larger and later flowering forms. Mer-
tensia virginica is fine ; so also are patches of
the leading Erythroniums, Leucojums, &c.
Anemone appenina is in full bloom ; also A.
Hepatica varieties, which are rich in blue, rose,
and white tints. One nook has a plantation of
Tree Pieonies, not altogether successful by
leason of their early flowering ; another has a
full collection of Tritomas, &c. Iris reticulata
is well in bloom, but this and others of its
class are not so permanent here as on heavier
soil.

In the Bamboo garden Bambusa palmata is
the best of the broad-leafed section, and
their beauty is enhanced by the collection
of Ivies trailing over trimmed Pine trees
which are arranged around. Here and there
some rare shrubs are planted. In a sheltered
nook the blue Primroses are very finely in
flower. These are the true blue type, the
flowers of the darkest being of a rich violet tint.
The common Arabis is one of the earliest of
white Howers ; closely following come the varie-
ties of Aubrietias, Saxifragas, &c. Mr. Bilney
is a landscape gardener by instinct, and an en-
thusiast in all floral matters, hence the charming
effect seen at Fir Grange.

The Orchids.
Always the most lauded, if not the most
admired part of the garden, are the Orchid
houses. Those who saw the fine group for which
Mr. Bilney was awarded a gold medal at the
meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on
March 6 will have some idea of the beauty of the
Orchid houses at Fir Grange, for all the ex-
hibited specimens were still there at the time of
my visit. Some Dendrobiums, such as D. albo-
sanguineum, are exceptionally finely grown, and
all are flowering heavily. One house was literally
packed with Dendrobiums in flower, while the
cool houses were nicely furnished with the bloom
of Odontoglossum crispum, O. triumphans,
Sophronitis grandiflora, Oncidium concolor, &c.
Other houses contain Ccelogyne cristata and its
varieties. /. O'B., 'March.

AUSTRALIAN GRASS TREES.

A Grass tree may be likened to a gigantic Rush
with a trunk like a Cycad and a flower-spike like
a Reed-mace (Bulrush). The example shown in
the illustration is small in regard to trunk, from
lo to 15 feet being the height of the trunk of a
full-grown wild , example, .but_it. is full-size in

quadrangulata, with a trunk 6 feet high, is also in'
flower in the same house. Grass trees are abun-
dant in Western Australia. Miss North saw them
in the Swan River valley in enormous quantities.
She speaks of miles of them, covering large tracts-
of country, with flower-spikes 8 feet high, out of
all proportion to the trees, their companions being
Kingias, Cycads, Grevilleas, red Gums, &c., and.

Fig. 90. — AUSTR.\LIAN GRASS TREE (XANTHORRH.^iA PREISSIl) IN OENfRE.

regard to "grass" and flower-spike, the latter
being 8 feet high, its upper half clothed with
tightly-packed, white, odoriferous flowers. This
plant has been in flower several months in the
succulent house at Kew (see Fig. go), and it is the
same plant that flowered for the first time in 18S6,
when a figure of it was prepared and published in
the Botanical Magazine (t. 6,933) under the name
of Xanthorrhaea Preissii. A second species, A.

says their leaves look like frosted silver in the sun-
shine. They are very brittle, quadrangular in
section, and silvery-grey on the Kew plants.
Judging by the growth of seedling Xanthorrhaeas
in this country, a full-grown specimen must be
some hundreds of years old. The two plants
standing guard to the Xanthorrhaea in the picture
are fine examples of Othonna trinervia, a South
African shrubby Composite. W. IV,

April 14, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

229

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

PRIMULA DEFLEXA, Duthie n.sp.*
This very beautiful new alpine Primula was
discovered by Mr. E. H. Wilson in mountain
woods in Western China, at elevations between
10,000 and 13,000 feet (No. 4035). It has been
raised from seed by Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, in
whose list of novelties for the current year will be
found an excellent plate, showing two fiower-heads.
It evidently belongs to the Capitata group, ap-
proaching most nearly P. cernua of Franchet and
P. bellidifolia of King (a Sikkim species), both of
which have sessile deflexed corollas. It may,
however, at once be distinguished from P. cernua
by the longer and very differently shaped and
distinctly toothed leaves, longer petioles, and
smaller flowers. From P. bellidifolia it differs by
being a much taller plant, with larger and less
hairy leaves, and in having larger flowers with a
funnel-shaped not cylindric tube. J. F. Duthie,
Kew.

LARGE-FLOWERED, SINGLE

CHRYSANTHEMUMS.

We have in Japan a variety of Chrysanthe-
mum with very large single flowers called by
various names, such as Taibo, Itchimonji,
Hiramono, or Hironoshi. In the districts of
Kiyoto and Osaka there have for some time past
been some highly successful growers of this
rare variety, of which fine specimens are found.
In the neighbourhood of Tokio, on the contrary,
it is but rarely grown, doubtless because hitherto
with but little success. It is not known when it
was introduced, but it has certainly been known
for more than a century.

This particular variety requires entirely dif-
ferent treatment from the ordinary kinds. After
making ceitain experiments, we are persuaded
that good results may be obtained by adopting
special methods of cultivation to this large-
flowered sort.

Generally speaking. Chrysanthemums with
large blooms develop more fully and bear finer
flowers in proportion to the abundance of
manure applied to them. This is not the case
with the variety in question. The variety Taibo
requires a soil composed of two-thirds of sandy
loam and one-third of leaf-mould mixed with a
little coarse sand, so that the whole is not too
firm. Cuttings or young plants of this variety
are put into Bamboo pans full of soil thus pre-
pared. Care must be taken not to place these
pans upon the ground, as by so doing,
firstly, the outlet of water is checked, and,
secondly, earthworms or insect pests might
obtain entrance to them. For this reason, at
some 4 or 5 inches above the ground, slips of
wood or of Bamboo are laid on the soil, and the
pans are placed on these, with stakes of thin
Bamboo in the pans. Propagation is rarely
effected by means of cuttings, although ex-
periments have shown that these give
good results. This plant does not root so
readily as do the ordinary large-flowered varie-

*Rootstock short, rather stout. Leaves thin, in basal
rosettes, 5 to n inches long {at flowering time), and about
1 inch in width, narrowly oblanceolate, obtuse or subacute
at the apes, tapering gradually into the long winged petiole,
more or less clothed on both surfaces with minute white
multicellular hairs, especially on the midrib and veins ;
margins irregularly crenate-dentate, ciliate, teeth with red-
dish glandlike tips; midrib stout, primary veins con-
spicuous. Scape much exceeding the leaves, often attaining
nearly 2 feet in height. Heads subglobose, about i inch in
diameter. Bracts 4 to 5 lines long, falcately linear-lanceolate.
Flowers crowded, sessile, deflesed, dark blue or rose-purple,
with a delicate blue centre, often turning whitish after
expansion. Calyx about i inch long, divided about half-
way down, coated inside and towards the base outside with
pale yellow powder ; lobes unequal, the three posterior ones
broader than the others, and tinged with a very dark purple
colour towards the rounded and emarginate gland-ciliate
aiJex, the narrow anterior lobes acute at the apes. Corolla
about A inch long, funnel-shaped, glabrous ; segments
cuneate-oblong, with a broadly emarginate apes. Capsule
depressed-globose, marked outside with a curious sigmoid
pattern. — Wilson, n. 4035!

ties. Multiplication by means of young plants
is most frequently practised. As these are, after
the fall of the leaves, produced abundantly
round the roots the stem is first cut about 2J to
3J inches above the ground, taken out of the
pan, and freed from the soil clinging to it. Half
the length of the roots is then cut off, the young
shoots growing out horizontally are nipped off,
and set in a seed-bed and covered over with a
litter of straw. In a cold climate, it is better
to keep the plants in frames, being careful not
to expose them to a high temperature, or they
will grow tall and rank to the detriment of the
flowers. In Japan this operation takes place
between December 1st and 20th. The plants in
the beds, provided with roots and deprived of
the sturdy horizontal shoots, are not long in
forming yoimg offsets, which appear above
ground in the last days of March. That is the
time to remove the young offsets from the parent
roots and to place them in other beds. It shoul 1
be noticed that the soil of these beds must be
exceedingly light, or the offsets will grow too
fast.

If they should develop excessively between the
time of planting in the bed and their final posi.
tion in the pans, an operation which is usually
effected in the last fortnight of May, they should
be transplanted at once so as to check their
growth.

This is an essential matter, and to neglect of
it is mainly due the failure of those inexperi-
enced in growing this variety. It may, accord-
ing to circumstances, be necessary to transplant
twice, or even thrice, during the time that the
plant is in its temporary quarters. It might be
thought more convenient to delay its transmis-
sion to the bed, but, in our experience, this plan
is not so effectual, transplantation appears to
answer better. Finally, care must bs taken to
plant out finally into the pans only small short
offsets with vigorous roots. These pans should
be some 8 to 10 inches across, and as many in
depth. One plant only should be put into each
pot. When the offsets are, in the middle of
May, permanently jjlanted in the pans which
are at once placed on the shelves, they are once
a week given some very weak liquid manure.
In early July the manure is withheld until the
flower-buds appear; then the fertiliser is given
once, but always much diluted. If it were used
stronger, the petals would curl and assume an
incurved form.

Pinching or disbudding is always practised
during growth. At the end of July, or
the beginning of August, the top of the
main stem divides into two. The two
buds on these two shoots must be left to
develop and all the others be pinched off, so as
only to let two stems grow on each specimen.
When flower-buds are formed the crown bud
must be nipped off, as this might bear a double
flower which would be unsightly, but the second
and third terminal buds on the stem may be left
to develop, all the others being removed. By
this means each plant has two stems which bear
four flowers. It is also usual to keep the flower-
stems weak, so as to obtain drooping blossoms.
In attaching the plant to the sticks, the ties are
divided about a foot from the base of the
flower-stems, leaving the upper part unsup-
ported, so that it is made to droop.

Before flowering, the plant is brought in-
doors, or is set out finally in the place pre-
pared for it. The flowers are supported upon
discs of stout grey or white paper, set at the
end of fine wire, such as is used under straw-
berries that are to be photographed. Further,
it is customary to keep one flower on each stem,
which is allowed to hang down beside the one
supported as we have described.

We do not know if this variety would be
admired by English horticulturists. For our
part we consider it deserves a welcome for the
beauty of its flowers, the great width of its
florets, and the size of the blossoms, which at-
tain a diameter of 12 inches [?]. Further, this
plant might aid in furnishing new varieties of

Chrysanthemums. For that reason, we deemed
it advisable to furnish these notes upon its cul-
tivation, and to forward a photograph of it.
[Photograph not received.] Baron H. Foukouba,
Tokyo.

THE FERNERY.

A NEW FORM OF REPRODUCTION

IN FERNS.
Recurring to my note under the above heading
in your issue of January 13, I now send sketch of
the plant concerned, and of one of the proliferous
fronds, which, considering the undoubtedly unique
character of the case, I think worthy of reproduc-
tion in your columns. The material now in evi-
dence establishes the further fact that the evergreen
frondlets really spring from the rhizome of
Cystopteris montana, since the axis of growth
(fig- 91. C) which produced them is now throwing
normal montana fronds, which, as shown-
in the sketch, are still associated with two-

qArdcfiron

Fig. 91. — CYSTOPTERIS MONTANA.
I. A A, evergreen proliferous fronds springing from C, the-
caudes ; B, normal frond ; D, normal frond from end of the -
buried caudex. 2. Abnormal frond detached with bulbils.

remaining evergreen frondlets (A A) out of
the six originally produced. The accompanying,
sketch of the detached one (fig. 91, 2), which was-
layered, also shows the two bulbils produced at
the sinuses of two of the prothalloid subdivisions,
indicating, to my mind, the aposporous character
of these evergreen growths. Another detached
one layered in the autumn is still as green and
fresh as when severed, and although so farwithout
any indications of proliferous growth is, I imagine,
extremely likely to produce them later on. The
four fresh points mentioned in my previous note
are, therefore, fully confirmed, and constitute
quite new features in the reproductive history of
ferns. Chas. T. Druery, V.M.H., F.L.S.

MARKET GARDENING.

FRENCH METHODS IN ENGLAND.

It was most interesting to me, and doubtless-
to other readers of this journal, to read the ac-
count given by your correspondent, " H. H. S.,"
on p. 173 of that which he observedin the garden
of Mr. Idiens at Evesham.

From long residence in Austria as a gardener
in a large place, and observation of the practices-

2.^0

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Apkil 1-3, 1906.

of private and market gardeners about Vienna,
Briinn, Presburg, and other large towns, I am
qualified to express my opinion that their
methods are, in some instances, superior
to our own on the score of adaptability
of means to an end in the matter of cultivating
certain kinds of early saladings, vegetables, etc.
Many of the procedures employed are similar to
those made use of in France, being probably
borrowed in some instances from that country.
The good results obtained at Evesham appear
to have impressed the Vitry gardener with the
suitability of that part of the countrj' for the
raising of early salading, mainly Lettuces and
Tomatos, and we may suppose other crops
likewise, will be found equally manageable and
profitable as time goes on.

Should this be realised, we may find French
methods being tried in still warmer parts,
such as western Sussex, the shores of the
Solent, about Christchurch, and in South Devon
and the less exposed parts of Cornwall and
s-^uthern Ireland ; the favouring conditions of
early cultures, such as a mild winter climate,
large amount of sunshine in the spring months,
and small elevation above the sea level, the
warm, tempting coombes being avoided, owing
to their liability to suffer from the invasion
of fogs off the sea during spring and early sum-
mer. Usually, however, these logs do not pene-
trate the country for more than a few miles.

The bellglass or cloches used by the French
are much superior in handiness to our hand-
lights ; they can be readily wiped dry and mad?
clean and bright for the admission of sunlight,
but they want careful handling and cannot be
mended if broken, as a handlight can be ; still,
every garden should possess a few score of them
as protectors for Cauliflowers, the earliest crop
out of doors, which comes into use in late May
and the following month. They are also suit-
able for the growth of Cabbage Lettuces,
to the number of four or five, according
to variety under each ; the small butter-
coloured ones, and those sprinkled with blood-
red dots — hardly known on this side — certainly
would go five to the cloche. Celery, Celeriac,
Mustard, Cresses of various kinds, and a num-
ber of half hardy annuals needing protection in
the early stages can bs raised under them, and
for rooting cuttings of hardy plants, cloches ara
a.dmirable aids The low glass frames are
common in gardens abroad, but they are not
the expensive appliances we have here, cost-
ing, as I note in the advertisements, £2 for
a single light frame, but not more than
a fourth of that sum. These frames consist of
a two-inch plank at the back and front, the first
being 15 inches in height, and the second 10 to
12 inches, thus giving sufficient slope to catch
the sun's rays, and carry off the rain. The ends
and partitions, if any, are made to correspond
to these dimensions. There may be a rafter
under each two lights, which is channelled to
carry off the moisture, and sometimes rafters ar;
dispensed with. Frames which are employed
for forcing purposes are placed over hot-beds of
stable litter alone, and in country gardens
usually on litter and tree leaves, and these hot-
beds are constructed in trenches about 2tV feet
deep and 3 feet more in width than the frames
that will be placed on them. Thus the heat is
conserved to a greater degree than is the case
with our frame hot-beds, which are absurdly
made 4 feet in height, and wholly above the
level of the ground. The plank side of the
foreign frame is in the spring and early summer
months, if forcing be carried on, banked up
with stable litter and tree leaves, and in them
Melons, superior varieties of Cucumbers, Pine-
apples (succession plants and suckers), and To-
matos are cultivated till late autumn arrives.

I have observed Mushrooms and Asparagus
grown in these frames very successfully.

Usually the Me'on and Cucumber plants are al-
lowed to extend their growths beyond the limits
of the frames, both at the front and back — that
is, in full summer, the lights being taken away

then. The Lettuces in th'!se frames are afforded
a bottom heat of about 70°, a night temperature
of 55°, and that by day 65°-70°, with as much
air as possible whilst maintaining thesj figures.

Even Germans tire of saner kraut, alter a
course of 4 to 5 months' duration, and as a bonne
bouche. Savoys and small-growing varieties of
the Cabbage are brought on in these frames,
the seeds being sown in warmth of 60° in
January, carefully kept in full light near the
glass, and pricked out into pans or shallow
boxes before they get drawn. They form, under
frame culture, nice compact heads, which are
tender eating, and much appreciated.

The Lettuces are raised in the same careful
manner, and afforded the same kind of treatment
as the foregoing, avoiding as fully as possible
all spindling from too much heat and damping
off from excess of moisture in the soil, the af-
fordmg of air being m this respect a matter of
the greatest moment.

I hope these inexpensive methods of forcing
with their handy little frames, that any village
carpenter could make, which are devoid of
screws, nails, and bolts, and are simply held
together at each angle with one staple and a
wedge, and lights filled in with stout glass,
vnW make way in this country, more especially
among small holders of agricultural land.

One good point about them which should not
be omitted is that every plant is brought up to
within a few inches of the glass, so that " draw,
ing" is unknown with ordinary attention to
affording air, taking off early in the day the
Russian mats, rush mats, frigi Domo, or what
not are used to retain warmth during the night
during the colder months, and closing the lig'hts
when the sun's heat has sensibly declined after
mid-day. M.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey,

Catasctum, Cycuoches, and Mormodes. — Another
section of deciduous Orchids, as Catasetum, Cyc-
noches, and Mormodes, will require attention as
they recommence growth. Shake the plants out
of their old compost, and re-pot them in a mixture
of peat and loam in equal parts, adding a little
leaf soil, chopped sphagnum-moss, small crocks,
and silver sand. The ordinary flower pots with 12
inch copper-wire handles attached are preferable
to teak baskets or shallow pans. Place a few
crocks or some dried pieces of peat-rhizome in the
bottom for drainage, and pot them like an ordinary
greenhouse plant, leaving about i inch of space
below the rim of the pot, then finafly surface with
a layer of freshly gathered sphagnum-moss, which
should be packed rather firmly around the base of
the pseudo-bulbs. After the plants have been re-
potted, suspend them to the roof on the light side
of the warmest house, and until the growths are
well advanced, and roots are becoming plentiful,
exercise even greater care than usual in affording
water, as during the earlier stages of growth the
young shoots are likely to decay if the soil is made
too wet. When the roots have run through the
compost, however, and growth is well advanced,
abundance of water will be necessary. The plants
should first be thoroughly cleansed from all mealy-
bug and scale insects, which frequently bury them-
selves around the base of the pseudo-bulbs, and
if not thoroughly eradicated before re-potting is
done they will give considerable trouble all
through the growing season.

Cymhidiums. — Any plants of C. Mastersii, C.
affine, C. tigrinum, C. giganteum, C. Tracyanum,
C. lancifolium, and the hybrids, C. Winnianum.
and C. Ballianum that require re-potting should
be attended to at once. Use rather large pots,
and put a few crocks in the bottom for drainage.
The compost recommended for the Calanthes will
suit them admirably. Other Cymbidiums, as C.
Lowianum. C. Hookerianum, C. Schroderi, C.
eburneum, C. madidum, and the hybrids C.
eburneo-Lowianum, C. Lowio-eburneum, may
also be re-potted soon after the flower' spikes are
cut, or immediately the plants recommence to
grow. All these Cymbidiums should be culti-
vated in a cool, shady part of the intermediate

house, and their immediate surroundin.'ja should
be kept thoroughly moist at all times ; when well-
rooted they require an abundance of water at the
roots during their season of growth. The new C.
Sanderi and C. Sanderse thrive best in a moist,
shady position in the Cattleya house.

Vandas and Renanthcra. — Plants of 'Vanda teres
should now be showing their flower spikes, and
they require a light position in the Mexican house.
'V. Hookeriana and the hybrid Miss Joaquim, and
V. Marguerite Maron require a similar position in
the East Indian house or plant stove. These
terete-leaved Orchids should be well syringed
overhead several times each day until the end of
the growing season. Renanthera coccinea re-
quires similar treatment.

Odonloglossum citrosmuyn. — The resting season is
now over, and the plants are producing flower
spikes from the centre of the young growths.
Suspend the plants in a light, well-ventilated
position in the Cattleya or Mexican house, and
afford abundance of water until the growths are
fully made up. The proper time to re-pot this
species is after the spikes have been cut, while
those that fail to flower this season may be
attended to when the growths have made a little
progress.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.'

By B. Cromwei-l, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Ailerton, Liverpool.

Streptosolen Jamesoui is a greenhouse plant,
possessing many desirable features ; it flowers very
early in the year, and continues till the summer
is well advanced. If propagated at once, capital
plants for flowering early in the following spring
may be obtained. Insert the cuttings in sand in
the propagating pit, and exercise care to prevent
the plants getting starved through being pot-
bound, otherwise they will lose a number of
leaves. Pots 10 inches in diameter are of a suit-
able size for the plants to flower in. When
growing vigorously the shoots should be stopped
frequently to produce neat specimen plants for
corridor, conservatory, or greenhouse decoration.
A section of the wall in the corridor at Cleveley is
at the present time a pleasing feature, each branch
of Streptosolen bearing at its extremity 20 to 40
flowers, in the jirst place of a pale shade of yellow
colour, changing afterwards to deep orange-red, a
colour but little represented amongst greenhouse
flowering plants. When grown in full sunshine the
colour in the flowers is better developed, and the
efi'ect is charming if they are used for decorating
the dinner table. Good fibrous loam, a proportion
of leaf mould and sand, with a little dry cow
manure forms a suitable compost. Liberal sup-
plies of liquid manure may be given the plants
when they have filled the pots with roots.

Potting Operations. — During the present month
many plants will require re-potting, and every
effort should now be made to push forward this
Work so that plants thus treated may afterwards
have a long season of growth, and an opportunity
of consolidating or ripening the growth during
autumn. Plants of Allamanda, Bougainvillea,
Cleredendron Balfourii, and the shrubby varieties
C. fragrans fl-pl, C. fallax, that have been recently
pruned, should have their roots reduced in com-
pass and be given a shift into larger pots, or be
replaced in pots of the same size in which they
have been growing, adding fresh compost of
fibrous loam, decomposed manure, and a good
proportion of sand. Dipladenias are of weaker
growth than the plants just enumerated, and
require potting in fibrous peat, adding a little
bone meal, and a liberal proportion of sand. All
the varieties of Dipladenias (excepting D. Boli-
viensis) delight in a high atmospheric temperature,
a very moist atmosphere, and exposure to full
sunshine. Ixoras. if not potted in the autumn,
should receive attention now that the atmospheric
condition of the stove is conducive to quick
growth. In order to make well-furnished speci-
mens the shoots of young plants should be
" pointed over " with a sharp knife, or they may
be stopped soon after the plants begin to grow.

General remarks. — Seedling Primulas, when suf-
ficiently large to handle, should be pricked
off into pans or shallow boxes, putting the plants
at about 2 or 3 inches apart. When grown in
this manner they are not so liable to suffer from
drought as when planted so young into small
pots. Another sowing should now be made, and
from this plants will flower next spring. The
same may be said of Cinerarias to succeed those
already sown. Encourage the early Lilies,

April 14, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

9-^,1

Marguerites, Gladioli, " The Bride, " Calecolarias,
&c., by giving them frequent applications of
liquid manure. The stock of bulbs and forced
hardy plants is now nearly exhausted, and flower-
ing plants for keeping the conservatory gay will
not be too abundant during the next few weeks.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW. Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Early Vines. — Where pot-vines are grown the
fiuits will be now commencing to colour, although
the weather during the past fortnight in March
kept them back considerably, as there was very
little sun-heat, and there were cold north-east
winds that, blowing on the glass, greatly reduced
the atmospheric temperatures in the house. It is
not wise to force these vines se\'erely, thinking to
make up for lost time, for much better results will
follow if they are allowed to develop gradually,
and more ventilation is employed, leaving a
little on even all night, when the conditions are
favourable, for this will assist the colouring of the
berries. Vines planted in borders but forced for
very early crops are generally grown in narrow-
borders in small pits. Such borders dry very
quickly, and should be given a good soaking
with tepid water before the berries begin to
colour. Afterwards apply a surface mulching of
manure from an old mushroom bed, which will
keep the moisture in the border, and also be of
benefit to the surface roots. The water-pipes
having been kept extra warm during the cold, sun-
less days, red-spider may be troublesome, and
should be checked by syringing the leaves between
the branches as much as possible with rain-water.
But if the berries are too far advanced for syring-
ing to be practised, sponge the leaves separately
with a little sulphur and water.

Latest Vines. — These are now advanced enough
for disbudding. If the vines are very old a good
proportion of the buds may be removed, retaining
those nearest to the base, so that ugly spurs may
be shortened later on. Vines grow much stronger
and break into growth better when very little
if any artificial heat is used at the time they are
started, but with the increased sun-heat that may
now be expected growth will be more rapid, and a
little heat m the pipes at night will be beneficial.

Cucumbers. — The plants being now very vigorous,
are liable to produce more fruits than they
should be permitted to develop. Stop the growth
frequently, and only allow one or two fruits to
develop on a shoot. The roots will now need
more attention as to watering, for with more top
growths they will be more numerous and
active. Top-dress them whenever necessary
with fibrous loam, decayed manure, and bone-
meal, keeping plenty of moisture in the house,
and an atmospheric temperature of 68'^ at nights,
allowing it to rise lo" higher during the day.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plvmouih,
St. Fagan"s Castle, Glamorganshire.
A Border of Fragrant Flotoers. — In the gardens of
to-day, plants having llowers or foliage of sweet
perfume are apt to be neglected in the striving
after perfection in a colour-design in the mixed
border, or in the achievement of more bril-
liancy in the beds of geometrical form. But,
though it may be sometimes necessary to discard
sweet-scented flowers to make room for the scentless
flowers of richer hue, compensation may be had
by devoting a border entirely to fragrjnt flowers,
in which even those of sombre appearance may
have a place. This border should be ensconced
in a quiet corner of the garden — preferably that
portion which is more frequented at evening — for
the odours of flowers appear sweeter, and are more
readily perceived and more welcome, in the cool
of the late evening, when the beauty of the ordi-
nary border cannot be seen. In such a border one
could have hardy perennial plants and shrubs, as
well as hardy and half-hardy annuals. Foremost
amongst them would be the Rosemary and the
Lavender, so reminiscent of the associations of
old-world gardens, and breathing fragrance over a
long period of the year. The Sweet Briar, and some
of the old-fashioned Roses, diffusing their peerless
sweetness, too, would have their place. The best
of the scented Lilies, particularly the Madonna
Lily, the clove-scented Carnation, the white Pink,
the Lily of the Valley, Balm of Gilead. Sweet
Basil, Myrtle, Daphne, Pjeony, and the Choisia,
all alike would be welcomed here. Amongst the
annuals and half-hardy plants for this kind of

border the little night-scented stock (Mathiola
bicornis) would be one of the best of flowers, and
should be sown in broad masses. In the day-time
it has a detracting, dead appearance, but m the
evening it seems to imbibe new life, and with its
faint-coloured pink and lilac flowers and gay
foliage looks quite pretty, while it diffuses in the
air around as sweet a perfume as it is possible to
imagine. The night-scented stock is perennial,
but is best treated as a hardy annual and can be
sown at the present time. The Mignonette would
be anotherplant admirably adapted for this border,
and if properly thinned out when the seedlings are
up, to allow them plenty of space to develop,
would make a pleasing display as well as give off a
delicious fragrance. Sweet .-Myssum, Evening
Primrose, Sweet Peas, Sweet Sultans, and Wall-
flowers are other hardy annuals that could be
used, while the Tobacco /plant (Nicotiana affinis)
is invaluable. Seeds of the Nicotiana should be
sown in boxes in heat at once — if not already
done — and when the seedlings are large enough,
prick them ofl' into fresh boxes, giving the plants
ample room to grow. They will afterwards need
to be hardened off and planted out at suffi-
cient distance from each other to allow of
them attaining their natural size untrammelled.
Marvel of Peru (Mirabilis Jalapa) though not
scented, should find a place in this border, as it is
a handsome plant, and its flowers, nearlv an inch
and a half across, of numerous shades of colour,
open in the evening. It is really perennial, but
may be flowered as an annual, and if seeds are
sown now in boxes in heat and the plants sub-
sequently potted singly into pots containing good,
rich soil, should, by the beginning of June, be
ready to plant out. Of half-hardy plants Helio-
trope, the scented-lea\ ed Pelargonium and Stocks
should not be forgotten. On supports of branches
or walls the Clematis flammula is delightful in
evening, both on account of its shower of white
flowers and its wonderful fragrance, but it requires
to be established a year or tw'o before it is effec-
tive. The different Honeysuckles, too, might be
used thus, while for the walls alone the lemon-
scented Verbena (Aloysiacitriodora), Umbellularia
californica, odorous Jasmine, and the Wistaria
are indispensable

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By \V. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Peaches and Nectarines. — Draw down the
blinds each evening over those trees that are
now in flower, and remove the blinds very early
next morning if there is no frost. Examine the
trees closely each day to see if any aphis is
detected ; take means at once to exterminate it,
or at this season it will spread very rapidly.
Use a sprayer or fine syringe, and apply a solu-
tion of quassia extract, which should be mixed
in water at a temperature of about 70". Spray
every portion of the tree, and repeat the opera-
tion on several successive mornings ; more
especially should this be done when the trees
have finished flowering. For some time after-
wards they should be syringed with quassia or
XL-all insecticide twice weekly. If mildew be
detected, spray with sulphide of potassium, or
dust the leaves with flowers of sulphur.

Apricot trees as they pass out of flower should
also be carefully watched, as they are liable to
be attacked with maggots. As soon as tke foliage
appears, the maggots commence to feed upon it,
and have a peculiar habit of tying the leaves to-
gether, which prevents the shoots growing away
strongly. Let all the maggots that can be de-
tected be picked off, and afterwards spray the
trees with strong extract of quassia. Continue to
draw down the blinds over the trees as a protec-
tion from frost. Newly planted trees may require
to be thoroughly watered at the roots. Let this
be ascertained before they su6er from drought,
and immediately after affording water let a
mulch be applied.

Grafts. — Attend to newly grafted trees and see
that the grafting material is intact. If drying
winds and hot sunshine prevail, tie some damp
moss over the clay to prevent it cracking, and
spray this gently on fine mornings.

Siraviherry Plantations. — Keep these clean
from weeds, and take care that young plants are
made firm in their respective positions, should
these become loosened by the influence of frost
or other means. Afford water to the roots if
this is necessary, and prevent the plants be-
coming attacked with red spider.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. GiBsoM, Gardener to His Grace the Dnke of
Portland, VVelbeck Abbey, Notts.

Beet. — More often than not these roots are
grown too large in size, for few vegetables losa
their good qualities through being overgrown
more than Beet. Extra size is generally the
result of sowing the seed too early, and in
ground that is too rich. The end of the present
month or the first days in May is a good time
to sow for the general supply, but small sowings
may now be made on a warm border for pro-
viding Beet for use in early salads, choosing the
turnip-rooted variety, which matures quickly.
It is necessary to pull beet as soon as it has at-
tained to a serviceable size, and bury the roots
in moist soil, otherwise during warm weather
they will lose colour, and the roots when boiled
will be hard. "The Globe" is a good type (or
the purpose mentioned. Deep, loose soil is ne.
cessary for the main crop. The same cultiva-
tion as applied to Carrots will suffice. The
varieties I have found to be best are Cheltenham
fireen Top, Sutton's IJlood Ked and Carter''s
Perfection, while if a darker fleshed variety is
wanted, Dobbie's Selected is one cf the best.

Salsify and Scorzonera. — I'hese crops also
suffer from too early sowing, and it is well to
make two sowings in case the earlier one should
"run to seed," and the good qualities of the
roots be thus lost. Sow the first seeas in the
last week of April, and make the next sowing a
fortnight later.

Chicory requires the same treatment as I have
just described. It is extremely i seful for salads,
and may be easUy forced throughout the winter.
Allow the seedlings plenty of room to develop
to their fullest extent.

Seakale. — There should be no further delay
in covering up the. crowns that are intended to
afford the latest supply in the open. If the
ground is dry, afford the roots a good watering,
then apply leafmould to the depth of tvi'o feet
and protect this from the birds, or they will
scatter it about. Complete the plantation of
Seakale intended for next year's supply without
further delay, and as soon as the young growths
are large enough, thin them out to one which
will be much more useful than any gr'-ater
number. ;

Planting Out. — There should be no fear of any
great damage being done by frost to ycung
plants of Cauliflowers, Cabbages, Sprouts, etc.,
that \yere raised in January, and are now 'ready
for being put into the open ground. In exposed
gardens, however, it is well to place a few
Spruce boughs amongst them to break the winds.
As a protection from slugs, a few coal ashes
may be put round each plant. Wco.J pigeons
are often very destructive at this season, as well
as rooks, and beyond netting the square I know
of nothing more effective to keep them at bay
than a stuffed cat strung from the back on to a
wire.

THE APIARY.

By Chloris.

Renc-uing Foundation. — There is an idea preva-
lent among bee keepers that so long as the combs
are straight, and are not pollen-clogged, there is
no necessity to renew them. This is altogether
erroneous. A little while ago a young man,
who is new to the art of bee keeping, was
holding forth to his elders on this very point.
He pointed out that on examining old combs he
had found that when a bee had hatched it left a
scale behind it, and thus reduced the cubical
sp<i»e of the cells. None would credit it. A
piece of old comb was produced and examined,
and all were perfectly convinced, for quite 1-32
of an inch of the base of the cells was so occu-
pied with scales or, really, cocoons. This is a
matter needing urgent attention, for, by continu-
ally using the same combs a smaller race of bees
results. There is also another point needing a
little thought and consideration. The old skep-
pists are all of opinion that foul brood was less,
frequent when the bees made fresh comb each
year in the sulphuring days. This may be so,
and desen.es very serious attentien by all who
have bar-frame hives. After reading this some
may become alarmed and wish to renew all the
foundation ; but if half the frames are renewed
annually that will suffice. It will he well to feed
the bees during the renewing period by placing
the syrup over the empty sheet of. foundation.

232

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 14, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

J^DVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

4-etters for Publication, fls well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden. London.
CojiimttnicatioJis sfiould be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ie Editor does not
undiitake to pay for atiy contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does iwt hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

tlllustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
, gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for lessor ijijury.

Nev/spapers.—Corrcspotuients sending tu:wspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.—Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

MONDAY, April i6 Bank Holiday.

f Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet with
TUESDAY, April 17] Nat. Auricula & Primula Soc.

( Show combined.

WEDNESDAY, April i8 | ^y^^"'- S<"=- Show at Regent's

T7r.TT^»\' « ,-1 » J Kent and Sussex Daf. and Spring

.FRIDA\ , April 20 | ^^ ^^^^^ ^^ Xunbridge Wells.

-Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 18-4".

• Actual Temperatures: —

l,onDon.— Tuesday, April 10 (6 p.m.): Max. GS"; Min.
37°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Wednesday, April 11
(10 A.M.): Bar., 30.3; Temp., 57"; Weather—
Bright sunshine.
Provinces.— ri(i;sda>', April 10 (S p.m.): Mas. 59'
Colchester ; Min. 47" Liverpool.

SALES.

■WEDNESDAY—

Herbaceous and Border plants, Lilies, Carnations, Roses,
Palms, and plants, Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Ferns, &c.,
at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at
12.

rFRlDAY—

Imported and Established Orchids in varieties. Orchids
in flower and bud, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by
Protheroe & Morris, at 12.45.

Dr. A. Pulle, of Utrecht, has
Surinam, recently published, through M. J.

E. Brill, of Leiden, an " Enume-
ration of the vascular plants known from
Surinam, together with their distribution
and synonymy." The proximity of Dutch
Guiana to our own colony of British Guiana,
• and the similarity of its climatal features render
the book very valuable as, at present, we have
no complete or separate list of the plants of
Guiana, hence the present work may, in a
measure, act as a substitute. We are told, how-

■ ever, in the appendix that the climate of the
known part of Surinam agrees more closely with
that of French Guiana and the lower course of
the Amazon, and is chiefly distinguished by the
very regular distribution of the rainfall and the
temperature over the whole year. The more
varied surface of British Guiana ensures
the presence of a larger and more varied flora.
The work is written in English, and is prefaced
by some historical notes. Of the many estab-
li.shnients v>fhcrein. Surinam plants are preserved
that :it Utrecht is the most important. The

■ cidor ijllowed in the present work is that of

Engler and Prantls' Natiirlichc Pflanzen-
familien, so that it seems strange at first sight
to see the Orchids placed next to the Piperaceae,
but tills collocation is, of course, easily explic-
able. The Orchids, by the way, are numerous
(14:2 species), but mostly "little conspicuous."
They would probably have been enumerated in
greater numbers could the author have had .ic-
cess to Reichenbach's herbarium, shut up in
Vienna. The country near the coast is an al-
luvial flat, which extends for some distance up
the rivers, the low banks of which are covered
with a dense and very rich vegetation. The
trees flower comparatively seldom, but are often
covered with Bromeliads and climbing plants
(Convolvulaceae and Bignoniaceae). Palms also
are numerous. Above the river banks are ele-
vated plains or savannahs rather sterile, owing
to the erosion caused by the great rainfall
which washes away the nutritive ingredients of
the soil. In the south low granite hills occui,
with rapids and waterfalls along the course of
the rivers. The rocks here are often covered
with curious Podostemaceae. Ferns, are, of
course, common in the damp atmosphere. But
the chapter devoted to the general characters
of the vegetation must be read by those inter-
ested— it is impossible to summarise it satisfac-
torily, so interesting and full of detail is it.
Altogether upwards of two thousand species
are enumerated, but there is good reason for be-
lieving that this number will be largely in-
creased as the country becomes opened up.
As it is, it appears that the flora of British
Guiana is better known than that of Surinam,
although that has been more fully investigated
than that of French Guiana. The num-
ber of endemic species is no less than 293 = 14
per cent., in this respect agreeing with the
floras of British Guiana and of the Amazon dis-
trict. Some 17 plates and a map illustrate the
text, and there is a complete index. The fact
that large tracts are still botanically unexplored,
and the extreme difficulty experienced in obtain-
ing the flowers and fruits of the trees, render it
certain that future researches will largely add
to the number of plants known to inhabit Suri-
nam, but in any case Dr. Pulle has earned the
gratitude of all present and future investigators
by this carefully elaborated enumeration.

Supplementary Illustration.— Debre-
GEASIA velutina.— This, to us, somewhat un-
couth name, belongs to a stove plant exhibited
recently at the Royal Horticultural Society by
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons. It is a near ally
of the Nettles, and has even closer relationship to
the Mulberries ; in fact, the yellow fruits which
constitute the chief value of the plant, from a
decorative point of view, are in form precisely
like Mulberries, although in colour, and we may
add in flavour, they diff'er. The species are natives
of India, Malaya, and Abyssinia. Ropes and
twine are made from the fibre of some allied
species according to Collett. D. velutina, the
species figured in our Supplementary Illustration,
is very widely distributed throughout India and
Ceylon, and is a tall shrub with hairy surface and
shortly stalked, oblong, lanceolate, rugose leaves.
The plant was named and figured by Gaudichaud
in his Botany of the Voyage of the ' ' Bonite, " t. 90,
and is fully described by Sir Joseph Hooker in
the Flora of British India, Vol. v. (1890), p. 590.

Midland Daffodil Society. — At a com-
mittee meeting held on April 3, to consider the
dates of the exhibitions, it was decided to adhere to
those stated in the schedule, namely, Wednesday

and Thursday, April 25th and 26th. As our
readers are probably aware, the Birmingham
Daffodil Exhibition is one of the finest in
the Kingdom, and is visited by specialists from
all parts.

Small Holdings.— The Departmental Com-
mittee held a sitting on the 4th inst. Evidence
was gi%-en by Mr. R. N. Sutton Nelthorpe.
Scawby, Lincolnshire ; Mr E. Spenxer, hon.
secretary of the Scawby (Lincolnshire) Credit
Society ; Mr. Jas. Bowes, Scawby, Lincolnshire ;
and Mr. W. M. Tod, chief organiser of the Agri-
cultural Organisation Society.

Royal Horticultural Society. — We are
informed that the Council has decided to hold a
trial of Cannas at Wisley this year and ne.xt.
Roots should be addressed to the Superintendent,
Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens, Wisley,
Ripley, Surrey. Foreign horticultural papers
please copy. The next meeting of the Committees
will be held on Tuesday, April 17, in the Society's
Hall, Vincent Square, S.W. A lecture on
"Colour-Photography in Horticulture," illus-
trated by lantern slides, will be given by Mr.
F. Enock at 3 o'clock p.m.

The Calcutta Show.— The Horticultural
Club of India, which originated with Mr. S. P.
Chatterjee, held on the 7th ult. an inaugural
show in his nursery, which was lent for the pur-
pose. We learn from a report in Indian Gardening
that the exhibition was an unqualified success.
Mr. Chatierjee's own collections ehcited the
highest commendations.

"The Fern Paradise. "-We are informed
that Her Majesty the Queen has accepted from
Mr. Franxis George Heath a copy of his
Fern Piiy,idisc,

Potatos in Shropshire and Stafford-
shire.— According to the report of field experi-
ments, made under the auspices of the county
councils, the heaviest yield per acre was contri-
buted by Factor, viz., 14 tons 7cwt. ; Royal
Kidney yielded 12 tons 17cwt. ; Up-to-Date, 11
tons 4cwt. The lowest on the list of nine sorts
was Evergood, which only produced 3 tons
lOcwt. These were all grown on loamy soil and
manured with farmyard manure and artificials,
as follows: — Sulphate of ammonia, lacwt. ;
superphosphate, 4Jcwt. ; and sulphate of pot-
ash, l^cwt. per acre. In connection with the
Potato experiments at Orton and Cresswell,
Staffordshire, the attention of farmers is called
to the following varieties : — The Factor, Cra-
mond Blossom, Discovery, and Superlative.
The Factor is of fine flavour when cooked and
an average cropper. All the varieties suffered
from disease when lifted, except Discoverv,
which is a late Potato of good quality. At ilil-
derstone the whole crop was about one-third
lighter than in 1904. This was due, it is said, to the
seed not being obtained directly from Scotland.
Farmers are advised to obtain a change of seed
each year, and to get it from as far north as
possible. Last year the largest yield of Potatos
at this centre was 17 tons 4cwt. 3qrs. per acre,
but in the present season (1905) it was only
12 tons 14cwt. Iqr.

Lord Kitchener as a Prize-winner

We learn from Indian Planting and Gardening that
the Commander-in-Chief in India was successful
in obtaining the cup presented by Seth Dooly
Chand at the Calcutta show, for the best and
largest collection of Dendrobiums, tastefully
arranged v/ith Ferns and Palms. We trust his
excellency may never have occasion to enter into
any more serious competition, but that if he does
he may be equally successful. From the same
source we learn that a special prize was awarded
to Sheik Sadar, the head Mallee of the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Calcutta, in recognition of his
meritorous services to horticulture and his long
service — over 40 years in the garden.

April 14, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

233

The Horticultural College, Swanley.

■ — The report, to the end of 1905, is distinctly en-
couraging. The students, now wholly women,
marked their progress by obtaining various
diplomas and certificates, and many found im-
portant appointments on completing their course
of instruction. We note that during the year
several students passed through the Colonial
Training Branch and afterwards left to fill the
positions for which they had fitted tliemselves.

The Natural History of Selborne. —
By the Rev. Gilbert White, M.A. Re-arranged
and classified under subjects by Charles Mosley
(London, Elliot Stock, 62, Paternoster Row,
E.G.). Here is our old friend, familiarly called
" White's Selborne," sent out in unfamiliar guise.
Notwithstanding the existence of nearly a hundred
editions of this popular favourite, the editor has
seen fit to issue yet another " arranged not strictly
in the form of letters as they left the author's pen,
but according to the species described therein, so
as to be more convenient for reference by the
students, whilst at the same time not detracting
from its interest to the general reader." These
are Mr. IMosley's words : perhaps the ever-
fresh public to whom classic books come new may
agree with them, but save for reference, the pre-
sent edition seems bereft of much of the charm of
the original. The long and chatty letters have
been cut into paragraphs, as it were, and then
arranged according to their subject-matter. The
plan would appear better suited for application
to a more formal or strictly scientific treatise, as
the pleasant letters and nature-notes were never
intended for this close comparison and inspection.
The editor gives us a useful index, but no illustra-
tions in the text. The frontispiece is a facsimile
reproduction of that to the first edition of the
work, published in 17S9.

Nature Study in Chester. — The Chester
Society of Natural Science, Literature and Art
(founded by Charles Kingsley, 1871), is offering
prizes and certificates for nature study to boys and
girls residing in Cheshire and North Wales. The
competitors are to describe wild-flowers from fresh
and dried specimens, to report on certain insects,
record observations upon such subjects as weeds,
birds and pond-life, and to submit photographs
taken by themselves. Full information can be
obtained from Messrs. George P. Miln & W.
Shepheard, the general secretaries, Grosvenor
Museum, Chester.

Perennials. — A useful penny pamphlet sent
out by the Agricultural and Horticultural Associa-
tion, Long Acre, W.C., and written by experienced
authorities. This is a second edition of the fifth
of a series of these handbooks and should prove
increasingly acceptable. There are plenty of
pictures ; the editor is Mr. Edward Owen
Greening, and Mr. T. W. Sanders is responsible
for most of the letterpress. It will be understood
that the directions given are clearly expressed and
useful for reference to both professional and
amateur gardeners — in fact, to " one and all."

Seed-vessels of the White Lily. — The
rarity with which capsules and seeds of the
Madonna Lily (L. candidum) are produced is well
known. As long ago as the time of Gesner it was
the custom to cut the flower stems off level with
the ground, and then hang them up in a reversed
position in a well-lighted situation. When the
ovary swelled, a capsule was formed, and the
seeds ripened. Various French writers describe
a similar process. Another method of inducing
fructification depends on the removal of the scales
of the bulb and the bulbils, leaving the central
flower-bearing stem, which in time produces
capsules and seeds. Naudin, in 1863, noticed in
a bed of white Lilies, intermixed with Lilium
testaceum, some which produced capsules. Other
cases of the same kind are cited in an article in
the Revue Horticolc'by M. L. Henry, from which

we take these details. Further, M. Henry tells us
that in 1904 two clumps of this Lily were planted,
separated from each other by a space of 5 to 6
metres, with a similar clump of Lilium testaceum
midway between the twc. In 1905 the whae
Lilies produced a considerable number of seed-
pods, some of which ripened and produced seed.
One of these capsules is figured in the Revue Horti-
cole, 1906, p. 159, fig. 75. The question arises
whether the proximity of Lilium testaceum had
any influence in determining the fructification of
the white Lily ? In the coming season it would
be easy to determine this point by fertilising
L. candidum with the pollen of L. testaceum.
The last-named Lily also rarely produces fruit,
though in the Garden for 1887, pp. 194 and 394,
instances are mentioned where it had done so
when grown in the vicinity of other Lilies— as it it,
also, required to be pollinated with foreign pollen.
American Universities. — The American
Ambassador has been telling the inhabitants of
Bristol, who are desirous of founding a University
in that city, that his countrymen looking to the
practical requirements of the nation are more and
more developing their Universities in the direction
of science and its practical applications. The
Leland Stanford University of California has an
endowment of between seven and eight millions
of pounds, the gi't of one man and his wife ; next
comes Colombia with more than six millions.
Harvard with five and a half, Chicago with nearly
four millionsand Cornell with about three millions,
Yale has only two millions, the Carnegie Institute
of Washington a like sum. The State of New
York alone spent in 1905 nearly nine million
pounds on its schools.

Conifers in Britain. — Mr. Hatfield tells
us in Horticulture for March 24, of his disappoint-
ment in relation to these trees in Britain. He
visited several of the well-known Pineta, not
excepting Murthley, and sums up his article : " In
all the places put together, I did not see as rnany
species and varieties of Coniferous trees as at
Wellesley (Massachusetts), nor as fine specimens."
The writter appears to have been better pleased
with the Edinburgh exhibition, of which he says, " It
was the finest show I have ever seen anywhere."

Potato-Haulms with Tubers. — M. Blar-
i.NGHEM in the Revue Generate de Botanique, 1905,
p. 501, attributes the formation of tubers in the
axils of the leaves to the action of the bind-weed.
Convolvulus arvensis, which constricts and even
breaks the stems at their base, and thus disturbs
the nutritive functions of the plant. This is
another illustration of the view often set forth in
these columns that the aerial tubers are the result
of some injury to the subterranean portions.

Edinburgh and East of Scotland Col-
lege of Agriculture. — On March 30 the
medals and certificates gained by students attend-
ing the winter session of this college were
presented in the college buildings, George Square,
Edinburgh, by Professor Wallace, in the absence
of the president and vice-president, from whom
apologies were intimated. Amongst the successful
students we notice the name of Robert L. Scar-
lett, son of Mr. James W. Scarlett, Market
Gardener, Swinthope, Inveresk, whose record is
very creditable.

Winter-Flowering Carnation Society.
— We are informed that at a meeting recently held
of the committee appointed to make the prelimin-
ary arrangements for the formation of a Winter-
Flowering Carnation Society, correspondence that
has passed between Mr. Henwood, hon. secretary
of the National Carnation and Picotee Society,
and Mr. Hayward Mathias, hon. secretary of the
Winter-Flowering Carnation Society, was read.
It appeared from the correspondence that Mr.
Mathias had, prior to the formation of the
Winter-Flowering Carnation Society, definitely
offered to give way to the National Carnaton

and Picotee Society in the event of that society
wishing to deal with winter-flowering Carnations
also. The matter of taking up winter Carnations
was accordingly brought before his committee by
Mr. Henwood, and Mr. Mathias was informed
on January 5, igo6, "that it was the unanimous
opinion of the members (of the National Carnation
and Picotee Society) present, that the society was
not in a position to do so." To make the matter
perfectly clear, Mr. Mathias again wrote to Mr.
Henwood on January 12, 1906, to say that now
he had received an official refusal he felt himself
at liberty to bring the desirability of a society in
the interests of winter -flowering Carnations
before those who desired to see this section re-
cognised. The committee wished publicity to be
given to this correspondence in order to remove
any possible misapprehension on the part of those
interested in w-inter-flowering Carnations. The
committee decided that the first general meeting
of the society should be held at Anderton's Hotel,
Fleet Street, London, on May 29 (the opening day
of the Temple Show), at 8 p.m., to be preceded
by dmner at 7 p.m. The minimum subscription
for members is 5s. per anuum.

Frederick Townsend. — The Journal of
Botany for the present month contains a portrait and
a biography of Mr. Frederick Townsend, who
died at Cimiez, on December 16, In later life he
succeeded to the family residence, Honington Hall,
Warwickshire, where he formed a beautiful and
interesting garden. Mr. Townsend, who was
born in 1822, was an occasional correspondent of
this Journal and was well-known as an acute
botanist.

Kew Bulletin.— No. i for 1902, the publica-
tion of which has been delayed till March, 1906,
contains an article on Paspalum dilatatura as a
fodder grass, and an elaborate memoir on Chinese
Ginseng (.\ralia quinquefolia). Many varieties are
described by Mr. Burkill. Though discarded as
useless in Europe and America it is still regarded
in China as the panacea for almost all ills. Khasia
Patchouli forms the subject of a note by Col.
Prain, now Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew.
The cultivation of Woad in England as illustrated
in these columns in 1S81 and 1882 is also treated
on. and there are various miscellaneous notes
which the progress of time has rendered out of date.

The second number for 1906 contains a

revision of the genus Hemileia by Mr. Massee,
who also contributes notes on some new and
additional species of Fungi occurring in the
Royal Botanic Gardens.

Publications Received. — The Generic Concept
in the Classification of the Flowering Plants. By B. L.
Robinson. Address of the Vice-president of Section
G. (Botany) at the New Orleans meeting of the Ameri-
can Association for the Advancement of Science. —
The Photographic Monthly, April. This is indeed
practical and pictorial, giving a good idea of the aid
the camera can be to botany and nature study gene-
rally.— Fourteenth Annual Report of Gardening Iji-
struction under the Worcestershire County Council
for 1905. Mr. James Uvedale records the work
of a highly successful year. Numerous experi-
ments on fruit, Potatos, and other crops, and on
plant diseases, were undertaken, and the photographic
illustrations form a useful register of the resultsobtained.
— Ontario Department of Agriculture : Tvjelfth .innual
Report of the Fruit Experiment Stations. Drawn up by
Mr. Linus Woolverton. — .\lso : Bulletin 1+7: Fruits
Recommended for Planting in Ontario; and Twenty-
seventh Annual Report of the Ontario Agricultural and
Experimental Union, 1905. Contains useful papers
and record of constant progress. — University of Cali-
fornia ; College of Agriculture : Agricultural Experi-
ment Station : Bulletin No. 172. Further Experience
in .Asparagus Rust Control. By Ralph E. Smith. And
Bulletin No. 173 : Commercial Fertilizers, by George
Roberts. — U.S. Department of Agriculture: Division
of Entomology. Bulletin No. 57 : Report on Miscel-
laneous Cotton Insects in Texas. By E. Dwight
Sanderson. — Farm and Stock Year-Book. Important
for farmers in the eastern province of the Cape Colony.
(Port Elizabeth Eastern Province, Herald office.)

234

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 14, lOOC.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

THE CHINESE MAGNOLIAS.

The genus Magnolia, considered as distinct from
Michelia, Talauma, and Manglietia, comprises
some 25 species, 17 of which are Asiatic and eight
American. Of the Asiatic species, India, Assam,
and Malaya claim six, Japan five, and China four.
Of the tv.'O remaining, one is common to China
and Japan, and the other to China and the Hima-
laya. It is with the six species which occur in
China that I propose to deal here.

MAGNOLIA CONSPICUA, Salisbury.

This old favourite was introduced into this
country by Sir Jos. Banks, in 1789, and is too well-
known to need much comment. In China it is
widely spread, but owing largely to the destruction
of the forests it is becoming very rare. In the
Central and Western Provinces it occurs at an
altitude of between 4,000 and 6,000 feet; but
seldom ascends above this altitude. Large trees
are seldom met with, though I have a vivid
recollection of one or two giants, 80 feet or
more high, with enormous trunks and widely
spreading branches. One such tree I saw in
full flower early in May, and if it bore one
flower it bore ten thousand. The flowers are
often flushed with pink, and a wild form occurs
(and has been introduced) which is remarkably
like the plant known in gardens as M. Soulangeana.
The fruit of this species is spindle-shaped, often
8 inches long, and very characteristic. The bark,
known as "WuP'i," constitutes an important
drug, being valued by the Chinese as a tonic and
stimulant. This species, under its native name of
"Yulan," has been long cultivated by both
Chinese and Japanese, and is one of their most-
prized flowers. Several hybrids between this and
M. obovata have been raised and are cultivated
in our gardens.

M. DELAVAYI, Franchet,

This is a new species, first discovered by the late
Pere Delavay in Yunnan, south-west China. It
forms a much branched, flat-topped, evergreen
tree, 20 to 30 feet high, but often occurs in flower
in a bush state. Leaves with long petioles, ovate,
acute, 8 to 14 inches long, 5 to 7 inches wide,
coriaceous, metallic green above, glaucous be-
neath, young leaves bronzy. Flowers of medium
size, erect on short stalks, white, cup-shaped,
fragrant, with very fleshy petals ; the flower-buds
are very acute. Fruit, a large cone, 6 inches long.
This species bears a general resemblance to M.
grandiflora, and may be regarded as the Asiatic
representative of that species.

M. Delavayi is widely spread in Yunnan, but
does not occur in Central or Western China. It
affects shrub-clad mountain-sides, between 4,500
to 7,500 feet. In iSgg. syhen travelling through
Yunnan in the interests of Messrs. Veitch, I suc-
ceeded in obtaining seeds of this plant which
resulted in its introduction. Unfortunately it has
not proved hardy around London, though it thrives
on a sheltered wall. Its hardiness is apparently
about equal to that of the Himalayan M.
Campbelli.

M. GLOBOSA, Hooker and Thomson.

This is a most interesting addition to the Chinese
flora, having hitherto been known only from Sik-
kim. In the woods and forests of the Chino-Tibetan
border, between 7,000 and 8,500 feet in altitude,
this species is not uncommon, and it extends as far
north as lat. 32° 30'. When I first discovered it
I thought I had got hold of a new species, but I
am satisfied that it is only the Sikkim plant, which,
however, until now has not been introduced. The
only differences between my specimens and those
gathered in Sikkim by Sir J. D. Hooker in 1849
are that the leaves in mine are more narrow and
more silky beneath, with no tendency to be
glaucous, and the wood is purple, not straw-
coloured. This species forms a bush or small

tree 6 to 15 feet higli, and flowers in quite a small
state. Leaves deciduous, ovate or ovate-elliptic,
acuminate, 5 to 9 inches long, 3 to 5 inches wide,
membranous, nearly glabrous above, and covered
beneath with a dense felt of silky hairs, which are
of a brown colour on the primary veins. The leaf
and flower-stalks are short, and covered with long,
brown, silky hairs. Flowers solitary and ter-
minal, appearing with the leaves in late May and
June, white, saucer-shaped, and fragrant ; stamens
and pistil of bright red colour. Fruit oblong,
pendulous, 2 inches long.

In many respects this species resembles the
Japanese M. parviflora, but the flowers appear
somewhat earlier. From the altitude at which
it grows there can be no question but what this
species will be perfectly at home in this country.

M. HENRYI, Dunn.
One of Dr. Henry's most remarkable discoveries,
but not yet introduced. It forms an evergreen
tree, 20 to 25 feet high, with huge coriaceous,
oblong, acute leaves, 20 to 24 inches long, 7 to 8
inches wide, very strongly veined on the under
side. Flowers borne on long stalks, rather small,
white, saucer-shaped, with very thick fleshy petals.
Fruits 6 inches long, cylindrical, and suggestive of
those of M. CampbeUi. This very striking plart
is a native of the forests around Szemao, in south-
west Yunnan, occurring at an altitude of 4,000 feet,
but is very rare. It does not appear to be closely
allied to any known species.

M. HYPOLEUCA, Siebold and Zuccarini.

This handsome species is common to both China
and Japan, though it would appear to be much
more abundant in the latter country. In Central
and Western China it is common enough around
dwellings between 2,500 and 4,500 feet in altitude,
but I have no recollection of seeing a spontaneous
specimen in the forests. The Chinese designate it
the "Hon p'o" tree, and its bark and flowers
constitute a valuable drug, which is exported in
quantity from Central and Western China to
all parts of the Celestial Empire. This species
flowered in this country for the first time last
summer, and is now getting fairly well known.
It was apparently first introduced into this country
from Japan in 18S4 by B. C. Chambers, Esq.
Its habit is erect, with loosely-spreading branches,
and its huge leaves are somewhat remote from
one another, the bark grey and smooth. The
largest tree I met with did not exceed 40 feet in
height. Leaves deciduous, obovate, 16 to 20
inches long, 8 to 10 inches wide; glaucous-green
below, and covered with scattered hairs, which
are more abundant on the principal veins.
Flowers white, powerfully scented, 6 to 8 inches
across; stamen-filaments and carpels bright red.
The flowers appear in late May and June, when
the leaves are three-parts grown. The fruit is an
enormous cone, 6 to 8 inches long, until ripe of a
bright red colour, and being erect it forms a con-
spicuous object at the ends of the branches. I
doubt if any difference between the Chinese and
Japanese forms will be found, but plants of the
former, raised from seeds I sent home, are now
growing in Messrs. Veitch's Coombe Wood
nursery.

M. OBOVATA, Thunberg.

Introduced into this country in 1790 by William
Henry, Duke of Portland, this species is widely
grown. In Central and Western China it is very
rare, occurring in woods between 4,000 and 5,000
feet. I only met with one or two small trees, and
my specimens are the only localised spontaneous
ones from China in the Kew Herbarium. The
flowers of this species appear before the leaves, and
are distinguished from those of its near ally, M.
conspicua, by being less cup-shaped, and reddish-
purple in colour, with stamen-filaments, and
carpellary column much shorter.

As mentioned previously, hybrids between this

species and M. conspicua are in cultivation. Of
these perhaps the following are the best known :
M. Soulangeana, M. Lennei, M. superba, and M.
Norberti. E. H. Wilson.

SOME SPECIES OF ILEX,
It is sometimes said that Ilex latifolia is not
hardy, but here in these gardens are some fine
specimens, several of which are 25 feet high, and
they fruited profusely during last season. I.
latifolia is a Japanese species, and is peculiarly
ornamental. It has leaves 8 to 12 inches long,
with prickly, serrated edges. It has no protection
here, and is planted in several (four) different sites
in difterent soils and elevations, and all are
thriving unmistakably.

Ilex cornuta, the horned Holly, is a very hand-
some and distinct species. The leaves are about
four inches long, and are furnished with strong
spines at the end with sharp points which resemble
horns. The plant makes an excellent specimen if
isolated. Our plant is about eight feet in diameter,
and is kept pruned.

Ilex crenata is also decidedly distinct. It has
small shining leaves of a dark green colour, and as
an evergreen shrub in mid-winter it is most useful.
This variety is sometimes called the Japanese
Holly. W. A. Cook, Leoiiardslce Gardens, Horsham.

THE SPFXIES OF EL.EAGNUS.

Spf.cial attention has been called to this group
within the past few years, and undoubtedly this
typical genus of the natural order Elaeagnace.TS
will prove a valuable acquisition. It is a
genus of elegant and interesting plants suit-
able for every kind of soil and garden. There
are only very few really striking variegated
shrubs, and the genus Ela2agnus furnishes
one of them. It surpasses the Ligustrum
in beauty of colour, the Ilex and Aucuba
in growth, and yet is uncommon. Not only
are the Elaeagnuses very attractive by the
beauty of the colour of their leaves, but the
wood, fruits, and growth are also very fine.
And although the simple flowers are not
large, in one or two species they are
borne in sufficient profusion to make a good
show ; while, in addition to being deliriously
sweet, they appear mostly in early winter, and
their scent is also remarkably attractive.

Nearly all the Elaeagnus have proved them-
selves hardy in our climate, and they are all
nearly or quite evergreen. Some — the dark ever-
green varieties — may be treated as other ever-
green shrubs or trees. Others — the varieties with
coloured foliage of the greatest beauty — have to
be treated otherwise. A variegated plant, to be
of real value in the garden, must have clear,
bright, and abundant red and yellow or white
markings, not dotted or merely marked with
colour. At the present time so very many
poorly variegated shrubs are offered that lovers
of gardens would be wise to see first what they
are buying and buy the best. They should not
be planted here and there among mixed masses
of evergreen and deciduous species. There are
two ways in making an excellent use of varie-
gated evergreens or variegated half deciduous
shrubs. In the first place, they may be made
into a cheerful bit of outdoor winter garden,
ICven a very small space of well-arranged plant-
ing of these beautifully variegated shrubs, so as
to produce a few broad masses of colour, has a
surprisingly cheery effect in winter, making a
kind of sunlight of its own when skies are dull
and grey.

Secondly, we can use them by themselves as
large well-shaped specimens. Though the species
in cultivation are several in number, only some
of them may be looked upon as to include all
different forms and need description,

Elaagtius pungetis. — This is an ornamental
evergreen growing to a height of 6-8 feet in any
ordinary soil. Its leaves are about 3 inches

April 14, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

long, bright green above and silvery below. At
a certain age it shovi's very sweet flowers in early
winter ; their Gardenia-like scent is most attrac-
tive. Its native country is China. There are
several other evergreen species, classified as E.
glabra, E. macrophylla, and E. reflexa, which so
closely resemble each other as scarcely to be
entitled to a separate description.

I have made it a special object of late years to
find out the best way in which to propagate this
species and its several handsome variegated
forms. Though propagation may be success-
fully effected by seeds, layers, or cuttings, the
surest and shortest way is that of grafting.
" Grafting between the bark " in the propagation
cases, with an atmospheric temperature of 65"
to 70'-' Fahr., just before the growth finishes in
August. For this purpose the stocks — E. edulis
from seeds being the best for this — have to be
potted in the previous winter. Gradually the
grafts get hardened off and are planted out in
spring and make in two years nice little shrubs.
In France I saw them grafted outside, only
■covered by bell-glasses.

K. pungens glauca and E. pungens variegata axe
good varieties of the species already mentioned,
and may be propagated similarly.

E. longipcs, syn. E. multijlora. — A Japanese
species. It grows from 2 to 3 feet high, with
numerous slender branches, which are covered
with brown, rusty scales. The leaves are thick,
dark green above and silvery-white beneath. Its
fruits are showy and ornamental, and are of
bright red colour, covered with small white dots.
It affords a beautiful contrast to the colouring of
the foliage. This Elasagnus may well be grown
for the fruit only, as it is juicy and has a sharp
but very agreeable flavour. This, as all other
Ela2agnuses, should have the surplus branches
thinned out yearly, thus giving them a more
graceful appearance. This form is best propa-
gated by winter cuttings.

E. angustifolia, syn. E. hortcnsis, is a native of
south-eastern Europe and western Asia. It is the
Wild Olive of the classic authors. It shows yel-
low flowers in midsummer, and the oblong, light-
coloured fruit appears in autumn. In mid-
Asia it is largely grown by the natives in
orchards for its fruit. The species should be
propagated by grafting or cuttings from half-
ripened wood in the cold frames or under bell-
glasses.

E. argentca, syn. Shefherdia arg. — A native of
North America, where it is known as the "rabbit
berry." It grows from 10 to 15 feet high, and is
of slender proportions, with opposite ovate or
oblong leaves, very beautiful silvery-white on
both sides. The branches are covered with grey
bark, the whole contrasting pleasantly with trees
of darker shade at the background. Its
bright yellow flowers are produced in com-
pact clusters in April and May. The fruits
which follow are even more beautiful.
They are scarlet or crimson, and hang in
bunches, sometimes almost covering the en-
tire tree or bush, and contrasting with the
white coloured foliage to great advantage. The
berries have an agreeable flavour. The method
for propagation is grafting as described.

E. Simon! variegata. — A most handsome varie-
gated form of the E. Simoni of Chinese origin.
This variety is said to have originated in Bel-
gium, and when I was there it was looked upon
as a most valuable addition to the genus. The
leaves are variegated with dark green, have
golden-yellow centres, shaded into brown, and
maintain these peculiarities almost the entire
season.

E. Simoni tricolor. — This possesses a very
charming leaf : dark green, brilliant yellow and
pure white mixed.

Other very good varieties are E. japonica mar-
ginata, E. japonica variegata, E. japonica argen-

tea, E. crispa, a beautiful Japanese species, E.
maculata aurea, E. pungens alba marginata, as
its name implies, with dark green leaves ele-
gantly white bordered. F. J . Longhouse, Neslon.

MODERN MICHAELMAS DAISIES.

Peren.vial Asters contribute largely to the
beauty of ^he flower garden in autumn, and
are valuable as pot plants in the greenhouse.
Modern varieties are much in advance of those
in cultivation a few years since. The modern
type of these flowers possesses a drooping or a
semi-drooping habit of growth, and develops
its first flowers within one foot of the ground,
the inflorescence totalling a length of at least
5 feet. Such plants when well cultivated on
single stems, or even with several shoots, form
handsome shower-like masses of flowers, a typi-
cal illustration being a plant of the variety
the Hon. Edith Gibbs. Compared with the
bulk of varieties forming the Novi Angliae or
Novi Belgii sections, with their gaunt, up-
right habit of growth and with just a bunch
of blossom at their top, the decorative value
of the newer forms is at once apparent. The
bulk of these later forms have small but bright
flowers, with pleasing colours. For furnishing a
supply of cut flowers, they are of infinite value,
owing to the greater quantity of bloom pro-
duced. One great advantage of single stemmed
plants of this type is the manner in which they
can be introduced into the ordinary herbaceous
border. Planted within 3 feet of the verge
among low-growing plants, and supported by
one stake only, these plants do not interfere
with the other subjects, but, having abundance
of light and air they grow sturdily, and in the
autumn form beautiful objects.

To Mr. Edwin Beckett, Aldenham Gardens,
belongs the credit of first raising and introduc-
ing this type of Aster. To obtain variety in
colour, this hybridist has largely used as a
parent " Pleiad," a variety growing but one
foot in height, and possessing rich, rosy, purple
coloured flowers. A. ericoides, which in itself
is one of the best forms, having long graceful
sprays covered with small white flowers, was
also used. From this latter variety, much of
the improved habit of growth was obtained.
As might be expected, those two sterling varie-
ties Coombe Fishacre and cordifolius were also
employed. The results from these last named
were not quite so good in point of form as
from the other parents ; still, several hand-
some varieties were also obtained from these.
Michaelmas Daisies w-hen grown by themselves
furnish a much better display than when mixed
with other ordinary herbaceous plants, except
when planted in the manner above mentioned.
The best effect is produced when they are massed
in varieties of one colour, while for the front
row the kinds with a drooping habit make a
splendid finish to the border, quite hidnig the
soil.

Vakieties.
The following varieties are derived from A.
ericoides and its progeny: — elegans, Hon. Edith
Gibbs, which was obtained by crossing ericoides
with Robert Parker. The small pale-blue
flowers are profusely produced. The plant at-
tains a height of 5 feet. Enchantress is a seed-
ling from the above, being even more graceful
in its habit of growth than its parent, making
a perfect weeping pyramidal growth 4 feet in
height. The colour of the flowers is faint-blush
with a yellow disc, changing to a distinct dark
brown that renders it one of the most conspicu-
ous varieties. "Freedom" grows 4 feet high, being
a giant form of the type. The flowers are white,
with a conspicuous golden disc, and are very
freely produced. Ophir is a variety also raised

from ericoides, iti height being 3 feet. The small,
creamy, white flowers are suffused with pink,
and possess a distinct golden disc. Osprey is
a splendid variety for furnishing cut flowers, the
height being 2 feet. In colour the blooms open
a soft pink, deepening with age to a deeper hue.
Sensation, 3 feet in height, has white flowers
with a golden disc. The habit is much branched.
Delight, rising to 4 feet, is also of a dense
branching habit of growth, and has small
flowers with white petals, changing to pink
with a yellow disc.

The Hon. Vicary Gibbs was obtained from
Pleiad. The plant attains a height of 3 feet.
The colour of the flower is bright pink, and the
first flowers of the inflorescence are produced
close to the ground. Gloriosa is an acquisition.
The colour of the flowers is of striking appear-
ance, and when the florets are unfolding it is
white, changing to lilac, and then to deep
purple with age. The growth is somewhat erect
and very free to flower. The Pearl is from the
same batch, being slightly taller than the
parent ; the flowers are pearly white in colour.
Minnie, 2 feet ; the flowers are white, chang-
ing to pink and purple. This variety is free in
flowering. Royalty, deep purple pink, 2J- feet.
From cordifolius elegans, itself a most grace-
ful variety, a form was produced, whch has beeji
called Edwin Beckett. This latter grows 5 feet
high, the flowers being larger in size and of a
darker blue than its parent.

A. cordifolius profusus is a cross from C.
Diana, but it is more free in flowering than
the parent, and, in addition, has larger flowers.
The colour is pale mauve, the height being 4
feet. Golden Spray was raised from Freedom.
With the short petals and the intensely golden
disc, combined with freedom of flower, it well
represents golden sprays. In habit of growth,
it is especially pleasing on account of its branch-
ing freely and drooping most gracefully. King
Edward VII. is a seedling from Osprey, and
grows 4 feet high. The medium-sized flowers
are rich mauve in colour. The side branches
are horizontally formed, making a full, hand-
some specimen. Coombe Fishacre is quite one
of the best of the race, growing 3 feet high, and
as much in diameter, in a graceful horizontal
manner. The flesh-coloured flowers are freely
produced. Triumph, a variation from the last-
mentioned, has blooms much larger than those
of the type. It is dark mauve in colour, very
free in blooming, and quite the best of tho
border varieties. Brightness, of like origin,
has deep bright pink flowers larger than the
type. A. cordifolius " white Diana " was raised
by the late Rev. C. W. Dod. It is floriferous and
attractive in appearance,, but the flowers are not
quite white, being slightly tinged with blue. E.
Molyneux.

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

SCILLA SIBIRICA AMCENULA.
Classed along with Scilla sibirica in works
of reference, there are. not many who know of
this form, which is seldom offered as distinct
from the favourite Siberian Squill. It is, how-
ever, worth securing by those who care for the
earliest hardy flowers, as the plants bloom
earlier than the type, or even than the form
called S. sibirica taurica, which anticipates the
type by a week or two. I received a bulb of S.
E. araoenula from Mr. James Allen in 19C2, with
the remark that he did not think this plant was
in the hands of the trade. It has increased but
slowly with me, and is dwarfer than the typical
S. sibirica, while it is brighter in its fine blue
colouring. This Scilla has been considered a
distinct species by some, but the Index Kewensis
classes it with S. sibirica. S. Arnott, Sunny-
mead, Dumfries.

236

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[At'KIL 14, liiUO.

CHINiibt CONIFERS.

TSUGA YUNNANENSIS, mast,*
The genus Tsuga, comprising the Hemlock
Spruces, has representatives in the Himalayas,
North Western America, Carolina, Japan and
China. The species are not always easy to dis-
criminate one from the other, but the Chinese
species here figured is readily distinguishable from
its near allies by its spreading branches, its entire
not ciliated leaves, its sessile, horizontally spread-
ing, subglobose and relatively large cones. The
linear leaves are variable in length, the longest
measuring about 25 millimetres. Tbev are

Delavay at an altitude of 2.800 metres ! Henry
also collected it in Sze-chuan, n. 7,156 !, S,Sg6 ! ;
Pratt on Mt. Omei n. 871 ! ; 987 ! ; Wilson found
it in Hupeh, n. 572, ! and i,8g8!

Our illustration is taken from specimens collected
by Wilson, n. 3,014 ! in Western China at an
elevation of from 9,000 — 11,000 feet. Many of
the leaves have fallen in the process of drying.
The tree is locally known as Thie Sha, meaning
iron-wood. It is in cultivation in Messrs. James
Veitch & Sons' Nursery at Coombe Wood, and will
probably prove as hardy as its near allies T.
Mertensiana (commonly known as T. Albertiana),
T. Brunoniana, T. Sieboldi, and others.

Fig. 93. — TSUGA yunnanensis.

Branch with cones. The leaves have mostly fallen, but their numbers and position are clearly shown by the leaf-scars.
The details show the leaf magnihed and, above, the cone-scale with the bract, and v-'- ""■ ••••""■"* ="""1=

ath the winged seeds.

green and channelled on the upper surface,
glaucous on the lower surface, and with the
entire margins slightly revolute The apex is
nearly entire or with a very shallow notch and the
base is slightly twisted. The cones measure about
25 millimetres in length and as much or a little
more in breadth. The cone-scales are light
yellowish-brown in colour, slightly striate, and
with a short, ovate-acute bract at the base. The
winged seeds are slightly shorter than the cone-
scales.

T. yunnanensis was first described by Franchet
from specimens collected in Yunnan by Father

* Abies yunnanensis, Franchet in Journ. de Botaniquc,
189 , p. 258: Boisin Bull. Soc. Hort., France (1(500), p. 231.

JOHANNESBURG.

From Mr. Stirrat's report on the parks of this
town we learn that much has been done, and is
being done, to beautify the city.

JonBERT Park. — At the commencement of the
past year considerable attention and consideration
were e.xtended to this park as to the best method
in which the grounds could be satisfactorily im-
proved, and it was found that, when the park
had been originally laid out, the major part of
the grounds had been planted with the ubiqui-
tous Eucalyptus and Acacia, which obviously
threatened to monopolise all the nourishing in-
gredients from the soil, and they were likewise
proving prejudicial to the younger generation of

flowering trees and shrubs growing adjacent to
them , and it was finally df cided to have the majority
of these trees removed and their places filled by
others of a more attractive nature. The whole of
the shrubberies have now been thoroughly
trenched and a most liberal supply of manure
incorporated in the soil. This was considered
essential owing to the impoverished nature of the
ground, occasioned by the exuberant growth of
the Eucalyptus and Wattles.

The reconstruction of the miniature lake in the
north-east corner of the park was taken into con-
templation, and it was found necessary to dis-
pense with the lake, the whole of which has
now been filled in and that portion of the park
converted into a Grass lawn, suitably planted with
Bamboos and selected ornamental trees and shrubs,
which, when established, will no doubt prove
equally attractive to visitors patronising the
grounds.

The rockery situated at the east side of the
park was found to be overgrown with undesirable
trees, which necessitated the complete overhaul-
ing and reconstruction of all the stonework, most
of which had to be carted into the park, the back-
ground being constructed with the tree roots
which were removed from the other parts of the
park. A suitable and varied selection of plants
have been appropriately introduced among the
stones, the following varieties predotninating :—
Saxifraga, Sedum, Euphorbia, Cactus, Aloes, .
Mesembryanthemums, &'c.

End Park. — Several new flower-beds have been
made in the main portion of the park, thus enhanc-
ing the general appearance of the grounds. A
piece of ground has been hedged off for the pro-
pagation of young bedding plants sufiicient to
meet the requirements of the whole of this park.

Oval Park, Jeppeston. — This park likewise has
been thoroughly renovated during the early part
of the year, and owing to the rich loamy nature
of the ground it was deemed advisable to have the
whole of the ground laid out in Grass lawns,
planted with ornamental shrubs, and choice varie-
ties of Roses.

Rotunda Park, Turffontein. — It is thought
advisable not to remove the Eucalyptus which are
at present growing in this park, and it is intended
to plant the centre portion with Roses and flower-
ing shrubs.

Creation of Norsery. — After considering the
enormous quantity of trees which would be
required by the Council in the near future for the
adequate planting of the parks, cemeteries and
open spaces, &c., it was considered advisable to
create a nursery in the Eckstein Park for the pro-
pagating and rearing of a suitable stock of trees
and shrubs to meet the future requirements of the
Council, and on February i, 1905, a practical
gardener was placed in charge of this park,
together with the nursery, and a portion of the
park, about five acres in extent, was fenced in, and
is now being used for this work, and already some
600,000 seedling trees and shrubs, including all
the best and most suitable varieties, are being cul-
tivated in the enclosure. The ground is amply
supplied with water.

Zoological Garden. — Up to the date of this
report all the animals comprising the Zoological
collection, with the exception of four lions and the
leopard, have been housed in the private grounds
belonging to the Braamfontein Estate Co., but
this naturally proved unsatisfactory to the general
public and visitors, and it was finally resolved to
have all the animals belonging to the Council re-
moved into the Council's ground.

Street Tree Planting. — The sum of /2,ooo
has already been voted by the Council for the
planting of trees in the public streets ; 1,000 orna-
mental tree guards have already been ordered
from England, and are expected any time. A suffi-
cient quantity of trees is now in stock, so that the
work will be commenced immediately.

Cemetery. — The gardening work in the ceme-
tery has increased very considerably during the
past year. A. H.Stirrat, Superiniciulint of Pat lis.

April 14, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

237

PLANT NOTES.

THE SOAPWORTS.

The plants belonging to the genus Saponaria
are closely allied to the Pinks, from which they
differ principally in having no calycine scales
to the flowers. The name of Saponaria has re-
ference to the soapy properties of the British
species, the leaves of which will produce a
lather. Included in the genus are some 36
species, distributed over the southern portion of
Europe and the temperate parts of Asia. Of
this number the greater proportion are annuals
and biennials, but very few of these are of any
garden value. Among the perennials, however,
are included some of the choicest subjects for
the rock garden, for instance, S. caespitosa and
S. ocymoides. The former of these, with its
neat tufted habit, is worthy a prominent place
in the more select part of the rockery, whilst the
latter, of more spreading habit, loves to trail
over old walls or stones in sunny places. The
Soapworts are all easy of cultivation, their main
requirements being a well-drained position, a
sunny aspect, and sandy loam. Some of the
species are often killed during the winter, but
wet is more responsible for their failure than
cold, as the plants are impatient of stagnant
moisture. Slugs are very fond of the smaller
Alpine species, and, if not prevented, will very
soon destroy established plants by eating out all
their growing points. Most of the species pro-
duce seed, and may be increased in this man-
ner, but others are propagated by means of cut-
tings and by division of the root stock in
autumn or spring. The species enumerated
below comprise the choicest in cultivation, the
first nine being perennials, the rest annuals.

S. beUidifolia is a handsome plant forming
tufts of long Daisy-like leaves and producing in
June and July yellow flowers in heads, sur-
rounded by an involucre of bracts. It is a
native of Central Europe, extending into Greece,
and is usually found growing in high rocky
places, reaching to an elevation of 5,000 feet in
Dalmatia. Growing about six inches high in
favourable situations, it is a useful and pretty
plant, and the flowers last for some consider-
able time. A well-drained position is essen-
tial in winter, and it should be given a little
protection of light litter during sharp weather.

S. caespitosa. — A beautiful little plant, native
of the Pyrenees, from whence it was introduced
into this country in 1824. It grows on cal-
careous rocks at high elevations, usually in dry,
barren places. Of dwarf, tufted habit, with
linear leaves, it produces its flowers in July and
August. These are rose-coloured, and are borne
in loose umbels. on leafy stalks from three to
five inches high. It is very free in flowering
when planted in a warm, sheltered place, a
sloping position wedged between stones suiting
it best. One of the most charming of the sum-
mer flowering rock-plants, it well repays grow-
ing.

S. depressa, from hot, dry, chalky places on
the mountains of Sicily, is a desirable plant,
having tufted spatulate leaves and good-sized
purplish flowers in heads produced in June and
July.

S. lutea. — One of the smallest of the family,
this species is found on very high mountains in
the Savoy and Piedmont. It has been in culti-
vation for over a century, having been intro-
duced in the year 1804. The plants form neat
little cushions of linear leaves, and is studded
with yellow flowers on short stalks in June and
July. Gritty soil and a well-drained position
is essential for this plant, and careful watch
must be kept for slugs, which are very fond of it.

S. ocymoides. — A very elegant plant, with
trailing stems and pink flowers; admirably
adapted for the drier parts of the rock garden.
It flowers profusely, and continues producing a
succession of blossoms during the whole of the
summer months. It seldom produces seeds,
but it is readily propagated by means of cut-

tings inserted in summer time. It is a native of
South Europe, and was introduced in 1768. It
is a variable plant, there being some varieties
of compact habit, and with flowers of deeper
shades of colour, as Avell as more floriferous.

S. officinalis. — This is the common Soapwort
found all over Europe, and also in temperate
Asia. It is naturalised in parts of this country,
and also in North America. The rootstock is
white and fleshy, and of a creeping habit, which
renders it a suitable plant for the wild garden,
where it can have plenty of room to ramble
about. The pale lilac flowers are of large size,
and are produced on leafy stems one to three
feet high in August and September. The double-
flowered variety is a most desirable plant, and
one well worthy a place in the herbaceous
border.

S. pulvinaris. — This plant is also known
under the names of S. libanotica and S.
Pumilio. It is a native of Asia Minor and
Syria, and is found in the Alpine regions of
the Taurus at an elevation of 6,000 to 7,000 feet,
as well as on the Lebanon. Growing in stony
soil, it forms neat little tufted plants not un-
like Silene acaulis, and bears somewhat small
bright rose-coloured flowers on very short stems.
It is a choice little plant for a sunny rocky
ledge in gritty soil, and is quite hardy.

S. Sundcrmanni was received from Herr Sun-
dermann, of Lindau, in Bavaria, in the spring
of 1902, and flowered for the first time in the
following June. It closely resembles S. beUidi-
folia, but has rather larger flowers and is of
more floriferous habit than that species.

S. W cinmanni came from the same source and
at the same time as the preceding plant, and
also flowered in June, 1902. It is closely allied
to S. caespitosa, even if it be not a form of that
species. It has, however, paler purple flowers
and a shorter calyx. The flowers are produced
very freely, while the plant has a very compact
habit, and is only two or three inches high,
which makes it a first-rate rock garden plant.
Both the last-named are quite hardy in sunny,
well-drained positions planted in gritty soil.

S. calabrica is the only annual of any value
belonging to the genus. It is a much-branched,
hardy little plant from six to 12 inches high,
and bears numerous rose-coloured flowers in
summer. A native of Calabria, it was intro-
duced in 1830, and is a most useful and bril-
liant plant of dwarf compact habit. Seeds may
be sown either in autumn or spring. Another
annual often met with in gardens is the Cow
Herb (S. vaccaria), with pale red flowers on
much-branched stems about two feet high. It
is a native of Europe, and was introduced in
1596, and is now naturalised in many parts of
this country. W . I.

ABUTILON MEGAPOTAMICUM.

This plant, with its bright variegated yellow
and green foliage, is a source of admiration
all the year round. Plants in 5-inch pots, raised
from cuttings inserted two years' ago, in a warm
greenhouse, are now graceful plants with shoots
over 6 feet high. They are flowering at the
present time, and the plants are clothed with their
bright foliage down to the pots.

The flowers are solitary, being produced from
the axils of the leaves near to the points of the
shoots from which they hang in an elegant fashion,
like so many pendants. The salmon-pink, fine
ribbed, urceolate-shaped calyx and the projecting
column of stamens form the showy parts of the
flower. The petals are at first of a light yellow
colour, but change with age to brown. The leaves,
from I J to 3 inches in length, are alternate, their
margins serrated and their apices sharply acu-
minated. The plant would, undoubtedly, form a
good subject for covering a limited wall space or
trellis work, although not used for that purpose
here. For corridors and corners of rooms, well-
grown plants are effective subjects, while the
flowering points of the shoots can also be used as
cut flowers in vases and glasses at a season when
flowers are not over plentiful. M. M. N.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

A HINT AS TO TRANSPLANTING AND
SEED-SOWING.
When transplanting vegetables in the young
state from boxes, pans and seed-beds, it is well for
the operator to be careful to make the ground,
wherever the planting is to be carried out, quite
firm by trampling — not by rolling it, for the roller,
having so large a bearing owing to its length,
is ineffectual for the purpose of bringing the
soil to a firm consistency so as to render
root-growth possible and add to the retentive
property of the soil. This making firm of soil
that has been deeply dug is equally needed before
committing seeds of any kind to the soil, and in
the case of Peas, Beans, Sea-Kale, and some other
seeds of large size, if the soil is of a light nature,
and loose from the action of the frost, the seeds
should be trodden lightly into the bottoms of the
drills before filling in the latter. Land that has
been winter-trenched, unless it be of a very adhe-
sive nature, is all the better for being compacted
after dry weather by trampling, and in the case of
ground being required for Onions, by a rolling
before sowing the seed and after having sown it.
Heavy soils, if given time after digging, become
compact in consequence of their weight, and be-
yond a trampling of the dry surface, should not be
rendered firmer by other means. F.

VEGETABLES.

SE.\K.\LE GROWN IN OPEN GROUND.
I H.^D almost headed this short note as Seakale
grown naturally, but the term would be mislead-
ing, for if grown naturally the plants would not
be bleached, and comparatively few people are
fond of green tops, though at this season they are
by no means to be despised as a vegetable. Sea-
kale which is not forced in artificial heat is much
superior to the Kale usually sent to market. If
the stools are covered in the ground where they
have grown, and as simply as possible, the pro-
duce is much better and more succulent, the
process less costly, and the yield is greater. The
plants will also continue to yield for years, though
the best results are obtained during the first
three or four years after planting. The lifting of
the roots and removal to a heated structure cannot
always be done, because'everyonehas not_the neces-
sary convenience. Without such means they may
have Seakale all through April, and in the late
season, well into May. The old method of forcing
Seakale with hot manure is not so much practised
as formerly. I mean the method of forcing the
plants under inverted pots. Most of the roots are
now lifted, and this effects a great gain in time.
Regular supplies may thus be obtained from
November until the end of March. When
this season has been reached I would advise
the Kale to be covered in their growing
quarters sufficiently to effect bleaching. It
is not necessary to use manure as a covering,
and for many years we have banked up with soil
obtained from between the rows of plants, and
this has answered admirably. The chief dis-
advantage in using soil is that slugs are at times
troublesome. Slugs are so fond of the tender
Kale that they must be destroyed, and this can
readily be effected by using a little lime and then
a thin coating of fine coal or wood ashes before
covering over. The plants for furnishing a supplj-
at this time are grown for the purpose from root
cuttings, these being planted every third year on
an open quarter or trenched land, which is not
very heavy, but is enriched with manure. Some
Kale is taken from them the first season, but in the
following season the growths are double the size
of those forced indoors earlier in the season.
They are also more succulent and less bitter than

238

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Ai'RiL 14, 1906.

Kale forced in great heat. The sets are planted at
one and a half feet apart in the rows, and a
space of four feet is allowed between the rows.
This allows of ample soil to bank up with, and the
plants are covered early in the year, the chief
necessity being to apply sufficient soil to prevent the
new growths from pushing through. It is a simple
process, and the roots grown here for half-a-dozen
years past give as full a crop now as in the first
few seasons. As the plants are gross feeders, we
afford thera freely during the summer such foods
as fish guano, salt and soot, and artificial and
liquid manures. The plant should have the
flower spikes removed. G. Wythes. Syon House
Gardens, Brentford.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(T/w Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)
Royal Horticultural Society's Plant
Distribution.— I fully agree with the note on p.
2i8. I have just received a box with five plants,
none of them rare, but all diminutive. For the
box and carriage I had to pay lod., the carriage
itself being 3d. This means that I am charged yd.
for a small wooden box worth 2d., and practically
pay id. each to the society for plants of no greater
value. Under these circumstances I sign myself,
Ctii bono ?

Disease in Seakale.— Seakale roots are liable
to be badly affected by ' ' rust ' ' in some soils ; we
have had them rotten half-way through or more,
seriously affecting the produce when forced. This
may be effectually prevented by surrounding the
sets with coal ashes at planting time, where the
system of making annual plantings is in vogue.
R. \V. Dean.

The Hawfinch.— This bird commences to
build its nest in these gardens in April, and
continues to do so until even the second week in
Tune. I have never found more than two nests
at this later date. The first appearance of the
young birds in this neighbourhood is at the time
when our first crop of early outdoor Peas is
ready to be gathered ; this would be about the
first or second week in June, when the parent
birds can be seen enticing their offspring to
learn the art of eating garden Peas. From this
time onward, enormous damage is done to the
succeeding crops by the parents, who are con-
tinually forcing the Peas from the pods for the
benefit of their young, and these, in conjunction
with the parents, continue to eat the Peas
throughout the summer unless measures are
taken against them, such as that Mr. Brookbank
advised, namely, protecting the rows with gar-
den netting — a system we have practised for years
with complete success. The bird should not be
destroyed, for its habits are very interesting to
watch, and the destruction they cause is so
little, excepting that done to garden Peas,
which can easily be prevented by the use
of netting. The bird is a charming crea-
ture when caged, and quite easy to rear
when taken from the nest. It can be
taught a number of tricks, and should not be
placed in the aviary with small birds, for I
have found that it will bite the legs of the small
birds until they are almost severed. The bill is so
massive and strong that I have had the flesh of
my hand lacerated and cut, as if done by a
knife. Their method of combating each other
is by i^ecking at their antagonist's legs, and in
protecting this limb from danger the biro at-
tacked sits closely down upon the branch and
drops its wing, which receives the onslaught and
acts in the capacity of a shield. The song is
very short and quiet, with interposed chatter-
ings of a peculiar nature ; they have also a
trick of smacking their beiks or bills ; the sound
resembles that noise made when placing one's
tongue in the roof of the mouth and then sud-
denly withdrawing the tongue from that posi-
tion. In manners and habits the bird reminds
the observer of a small parrot. It has a ravenous
appetite, and is therefore always feeding. Its
food consists of small stone fruit, its object
being to extract the kernel ; this is done after
the fruit has fallen to the ground, and the flesh
of the fruit rotted, or has been left hanging till
dried up upon the tree, .similar to the Haws
upon the Hawthorn, from which the bird derives
its name. It is also fond of the seed of the

Laburnum, Hornbeam, and Beechnuts, Moun-
tain Ash Berries, Portugal Laurel Berries, and
the Snowy Mespilus fruit when dry and hard.
At this time of the vear the bird commences to
attack the Beech tree for its buds, and some
years it will make a raid for a short time upon
the common Yew and Spruce Fir, after the
manner of the crossbills, by pinching the tips
of the branches entirely off, devouring the end
it has bitten through and dropping the growing
point upon the ground. When driven by a sharp
spell ot wintry weather, the birds will live upon
Ivy buds, which thev nip out roughly from the
axils of the leaf stalk, generally injuring the
base of that member of the plant ; the efiect of
this will cause the leaf to drop, producing dis-
figuration of the entire shoot. The bird has a
wonderfully bold and sharp eye, and imme-
diately disappears upon the approach of a
stranger; hence the belief that it is rare. If
the birds have been approached without their
observing your advance, or a gun fired off m
their presence, they will artfully dart to some
thick or dark cover such as I'ortugal Laurel
Conifers, or Evergreen Oaks, and sit perfectly
still, peeping and watching from which direc-
tion danger has arisen. These observations I
have made during 21 years' experience, the
birds having been here all the year round during
that time. M. E. Mills, The Gardens, Cootnbc
Houu, Croydon.

Mistleto on Oaks, Maples and American
Walnut. — It must be due to the habit of certain
berry-eating birds to frequent certain kinds of
trees in cleaning their beaks from the viscid coat-
ing of the seeds of Mistleto, which accounts for
that parasitic plant being found on some species
of trees and not on others. Is it because of the
roughness of the bark being more effective in the
act than smooth bark ? I am acquainted with an
extensive park in which are standing many species
of American Oaks, of about 100 years old, nu-
merous younger specimens of Acer campestre,
A. pennsylvanicum, .\. platanoides and a few
A. fraxinifoleum, and several of J uglans americana
and J. cineria ; and Mistleto is to be found only on
Acer platanoides and Populus Canadensis, never
on Oaks, either native or exotic, although an Oak
forest, with stands 200 years old, adjoins the park.
So abundant is it on the branches of the Maples
named as to give the trees in the winter a verdure
like that of leafed trees in the summer season ;
and men have occasionally to be employed to cut
it away on account of its great weight, a work that is
preferably carried out in winter, and the cut branches
given to the famishing roe-deer, which eat it readily
then and at other times. I may remark that the
seeds being ripe in April, not earlier, this is the
best month to rub them into crevices on the under-
sides of the branches of trees on which Mistleto is
known most readily to grow. It is always advisable
to bind a bit of close rabbit-proof wire round the
branch in the form of a bag, as a defence against
seed-eating birds, otherwise the operation will be
a failure. F.M.

Parrya Menziesii. — Until the introduction of
this plant about two years ago, this genus does
not appear to have been represented in cultiva-
tion, although it numbers some ten species dis-
tributed over Northern Asia and Western North
America. Judging from herbarium specimens,
some are desirable plants, especially P. pinna-
tifida, a native of Turkestan, with the habit of
Morisia hypogasa and having large purple
flowers. P. Menziesii is a perennial, growing
about 9 inches to 1 foot high, and is of a branch,
ing habit. The spatulate leaves, 1 to 4 inches
long, are silvery in appearance, being covered
with a tomentose pubescence. The purple
flowers are freely produced in racemes resem-
bling those of a small single Wallflower ; indeed,
it is closely allied to the genus Cheiranthus, and
was originally described under the name
of Cheiranthus Menziesii. It is evidently of
somewhat variable habit, some forms being of
more compact growth than others, while in the
case of the flowers some are of a rich rose purple
colour, while others are flaked with white. A
native of California, it is usually found growing
in stony soil on hills at high elevations. P.
Menziesii requires to be planted in a warm and
well-drained soil, moisture during the winter
months generally proving fatal. In this respect
it resembles the common Wallflower which,
while succeeding well on a dry wall, will fre-
quently die when grown in a damp border. It
is easily raised from seeds which are produced
freely, and it may also be increased by means of
cuttings. li''. /.

Grape Thinnings. — In reference to the para-
graph on p. 218, 6d. per lb. is none too dear tor
Grape thinnings. I have seen them offered for
some weeks past at 2S. and 2s. 6d. per 12 lbs.
A regular trade is being done with these in cross-
handled baskets, and they will be in season until
Gooseberries are on the market. For the making
of tarts they are a useful change, but being tart
even when very small they require much sugar.
They are exceedingly juicy, and considerable
care is required in the cooking of them. Berries
which are not thinned out until the stoning stage
are not fit for such use. Sheets of canvas or
clean mats are spread over the borders while the
thinning is being done, and, with a little care,
clean berries can be scooped up and placed in the
baskets. Stephen Castle.

Prunus triloba and its Pruning. — Tliii.
exceedingly fine shrub will shortly be in great
beauty, and while it is before the horticultural
mind may I draw attention to a correct method of
pruning ? It has been said that it should be cut
hard back, but this is wrong, for although such
drastic treatment does produce very fine results m
the case of Forsythia and a few other shrubs, it is
just the process best calculated to destroy all the
natural grace of the Prunus and to make its sprays
poor and miserable. By this treatment they be-
come densely packed together, of nearly the same
length, and very short, producing the effect once
expressed to me by a classical gardener as " wally."
■• Wallmess" should be avoided except in the case
of fruit trees. I have a fine specimen on a wall,
and every year, after flowering, all the shoots that
are too long are cut out altogether. The others
then have a natural development, and some shoots
are covered w ith flowers for a length of over three
feet. Some of the shoots are 5lt. 6in. long, but
at the top the projection from the wall year by
year is 2ft., and low down 3ft. 6in. This suits
the position, and the specimen is as perfect as
anything of the kind could be — there is nothing
like " walliness." The plan that answers well for
Forsythia is. I believe, applied to some shrubs
quite' mistakenly, let me therefore draw atten-
tion to a plan of pruning, very frequently applic-
able, that may be illustrated by the treatment of
Raspberries. All the spent or undesirable shoois
are cut out, and a suitable number of strong shoots
are left to attain their full and natural develop-
ment. Many shrubs are infinitely finer if treated
in this way, and the same principle frequently ap-
plies under glass. Cutting too far back may even
result in death ; nipping and snipping produces
a bad result in very many cases. Only a strong
unstopped shoot can, in many cases, produce the
finer heads of bloom. R.Irwin Lynch, V.M.H.,
Botanic Gar.lcn, Camhritigt.

Melons in Winter. — .\ supply of ripe Melons
available for use in the dark days of November,
when shooting and house parties are frequent,
affords some aspect of novelty in the dessert
as well as utility. Though it requires a
special effort on the part of the culturist to
provide Melons at that season, the feat is
by no means uncommon, but the case is
quite different when ripe, luscious, and aro-
matic Melons are obtained in December and
the three following months. It must be said
that such fruits are the luxury of the few, and
the possibilities of their possession remote to
the great majority of gardens. Longleat Gar-
dens, Warminster, now in the charge of Mr.
Gandy, have records of many high and notable
achievements in the past ; and Melons certainly
have afforded instances of success distinctly out
of the common for many years. Famed, how-
ever, as these gardens have been for fruit, it
has remained for Mr. H. Gandy to break r.U
past records in maintaining not only a summer
supply, but a winter one also, of Melons. It
may be said that soil and structure have
contributed largely to the history of these
gardens in respect to Melons, but few past
masters had dreams of Melons available for the
early months of the new year, like Apple.s
and Pears in the fruit store. The plants
which bore these winter fruits were raised from
seeds sown in the middle of July, and some
doubts were raised later as to whether they
would survive the chances of fate, and give
useful issue. These fears, fortunately, were
not realised ; the steady advance of plants
and crop afforded a prospect equal almost
to that of summer. Mr. Gandy is emphatic
in his conviction that the variety chosen for
this winter rarity accounts largely for his

April 14, 1S06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

239.

success, and, judging from my own experi-
ence and observations, I am quite prepared
to support this view. Without a vigorous
constitution, and a fruit of a type that can
resist decay, it would be impossible to preserve
fruits so long in a sound state. Mr. Gandy has
had fruits until the new year in previous
winters, and his success has made him venture
farther in prolonging their season. He is
encouraged to do this by reason of the partiality
his employer, the Marquis of Bath, has for
Melons, and when such success attends these
efforts there is ample justification for them.
The variety in question is Veitch's Late Per-
fection, one raised by that famous gardener, the
late Mr. Pettigrew, of Cardiff Castle, from whom
Messrs. Veitch, I believe, procured the stock. I
have said that soil and structure contribute largely
to the success of the Melons in question ; many
readers of the Gardeners' Clironicle who have
paid visits to Longleat will have observed how
opposite the practices are there as compared
with the common routine adopted by others. The
fact is not concealed that Longleat soil needs
no admixture of any kind, every necessary ele-
ment being present from natural sources ; but
even admitting this, it cannot account for all
the success obtained. I am not sure whether b}'
a possible extension of the winter section this
can be met by the maturity of a spring-raised
supply. The possibility of a 10 months' service
of ripe Melons, however, would seem to afford
all that would be necessary and make a two
months' rest quite welcome. [The electric light
would surely be serviceable in this case. — Kd.]
W. Slrugndl.

SOCIETIES.

CORNWALL DAFFODIL AND SPRING

FLOWER.

April 3. — The tenth annual show of this
society eclipsed all its forerunners in excellence,
the seedling Daffodils raised in the county ex-
hibiting in many cases a very h gh order of
merit, and 35 entries being obtained for single
blooms not yet in commerce, as well as 13 lor
unforced, hard-wooded flov\ering shrubs, while
for collections cf hardy spring flowers there were
14 exhibitors. Such numbers of entries in these
classes have never been approached at former
shows, and the display afforded appeared mar-
vellous to visitors from the colder aistricts of tne
kingdom, who could scarcely realise the possi-
bility of such numbers of rate shrubs flowering
m the open so early in the year. Rhododen-
drons did not form (juite such a bank of colour
as in former years, when there was no limit
to the number of trusses staged, and the winner
of the first prize in the premier class often had
300 trusses on his stand, besides which continu-
ous frosts and bitter easterly winds ruined all
exposed blossoms, fctill, from those sheltered by
foliage, a good show was obtained, and five
exhibitors staged in the first class. The first
prize bunches in the double ViOlet classes were
exceptionally fine, the flowers being of great
size and perfect freshness. The society is in a
flourishing condition, and all the arrangements
are admirably conducted by the Hon. John Bos-
cawen, who has held the position of hon. secre-
tary since the inception of the Eociety.

The following flowers were granted awards of
merit by the judges: — Mr. J. C. Williams's
G.W., a seedling Daffodil with spreading orange
cup on white perianth, and his No. Ii774, a
golden trumpet seedling ; ilr. P. D. Williams's
Incognita, Lord Roberts, and Pure Gold, a seed,
ling, while Cultural Commendation was be-
stowed upon Lord Roberts and Queen of Spain
to Messrs. Barr for Loveliiiess and to Mr. P.
D. Williams for Polyanthus Prince of Orange ;
and Miss Clarice Williams was awarded a
Cultural Commendation for Daffodil Autocrat.

Prize List.

The bebt collection of 30 varieties of Daffo-
dils : 1st prize, Mr. J. C. Williams, with a
remarkable stand containing only one named
flower, White Queen. Many of the seedlings
were of great beaiity, and were composed of
golden and bicolor trumpets, fine pceticus varie-
ties, and flowers with wide crowns of orange-

scarlet, buff and yellow ; 2nd prize, Mr. P. D.
Williams, with Ursula, Waxwing, Oriflamme,
Bullfinch, Juno, Incognita, Beacon, Blood
Orange, and others.
Six Magni Coronati : 1st prize, Mr. A. Ble.n-

KINSOP.

Six Medio Coronati : 1st prize. Rev. A. T.
BOSCAWEN.

Three Leedsii : 1st prize. Rev. A. T. Bos-

CAWEN.

Six Parvi Coronati : 1st prize. Rev. A. T.
BOSCAWEX.

Three doubles : 1st prize, Mrs. R. Nowell-

LTSTICKE.

Finest b'.oom of M?gni Coronati in commerce :
1st prize, Mr. P. D. Williams, with very fine
Maximus ; 2nd prize, Mr. A. Blenkinsop, with
Weardale Perfection.

Finest bloom of Medio Ccronati in ccmmerce :
1st prize, Mr. P. D. Williams, with Oberon ;
2nd prize, Mr. H. G. Hawker, with Lucifer.

Finest bloom of Parvi Coronati in commerce :
1st prize, Mr. P. D. Williams, with /Vrmorel ;
2nd prize, Mr. C. D.wvsON, with Horace.

Finest bloom of Magni Coronati not in com-
merce : 1st prize, Mr. P. D. Williams, with
Irene, a twin-flowered white seedling with well-
filled trumpet ; 2nd prize, Mr. P. D. Williams,
with Hannibal, a large pale yellow.

Finest bloom of Medio Coronati not in com-
merce : 1st prize, Mr. J. C. Williams, with a
bright yellow unnamed seedling ; 2nd prize, Mr.
J. C. Williams, with a white seedling, un-
named.

Finest bloom of Parvi Coronati not in com-
merce : 1st prize, Mr. P. D. Williams, with
Medusa, a N. poeticus, and Grand Monarque
seedling, having a white perianth and spreading
cup of bright orange, three flowers on a stem,
one of the most striking blooms in the show ;
2nd prize, Mr. J. C. Williams, with an un-
named poeticus seedling, having a flat orange
crown.

Group of Daffodil seedlings that have not teen
in commerce fouryea.s: 1st prtze, Mr. C. D.\w.
SON, with a very fine stand containing Bernard-
ino, a Lulworth seedling, with large white
perianth and yellow cup edged orange ; Cavalier,
with lemon-white perianth and f.at yellow crown
edged orange ; Coeur de Lion, witli pale yellow
perianth and flat orange cup ; Dawn, with white
perianth and flat primrcse cup; Crusader, Cres-
set, Rojella, Mascotte, Penguin, Armorel, and
Bullfinch.

Besides the foregoing a number of classes
were provided, in which the price of the bulbs
was limited.

Twelve hardy spring flowers : 1st prize, Mr.
P. D. Williams, whose stand contained Iris
bucharica, I orchioides, Caltha platypetala,
Tulipa praestans and Fritillaria libanotic'a.

Six hardy spring flowers : 1st prize, Lady Mar-
g.\ret Bosciwen, who showed the double' crim-
son Primrose Pompadour, so difficult to grow
satisfactorily, in very good condition.

Best group of Rhododendron blooms, not
m.ore than 40 trusses : 1st prize, Mr. D. H.
Shilson, whose stand contained a bright crim-
son .\ucklandi seedling which should make a
mark when a larger truss can be shown ; 2nd
prize, Mr. J. C. Daubuz ; 3rd prize, Mr. R.
Fox. Six trusses outdoor Rhododendrons : 1st
prize, Mr. D. H. Shilson. Six trusses Rhodo-
dendrons under glass: 1st prize, Mr. D. 11.
Shilson. Finest truss of outdoor Rhododen-
dron: 1st prize, Mr. E. B.4Ckhouse. Finest
truss of outdoor Sikkim Rhododendron : 1st
prize, Mr. E. Backhouse. Finest truss of
Rhododendron under glass: 1st prize, Mr. R.
Fox. Six outdoor Camellias : 1st prize, Mr. J.
C. Williams. Six Camellias under glass : 1st
prize, Mr. J. C. D.yuBUZ. Finest Camellia
bloom : 1st prize, Rev. A. T. Boscawen, with
C. reticulata 7 inches in diameter.

Twenty varieties of outdoor, hard-wooded,
flowering shrubs : 1st prize, Mr. R. Fox, with
Embothrium coccineum. Datura sanguinea, Pit-
tosporum eugenioides in profuse bloom, Meli-
anthus major, Acacia Drummondi, Erica
arborea, Acer rubrum, and thirteen other
shrubs ; 2nd prize. Sir A. P. Vivian. Six
varieties of outdoor, hard-wooded, flowering
shrubs: 1st prize, Mr. E. Backhouse, whose
stand contained Acacia dealbata, A. longifolia,
and Boronia elatior; 2nd prize. Sir A. P.

Vivian. Other shrubs exhibited in these most
interesting classes included Anopteris glandu-
losa. Acacia armata, Correa cardinalis, C. ven-
tricosa, C. carnosa, Calceolaria Burbidgei,
Senecio petasites, Cestrum fascicuiatum, Boro-
nia megastigma, Clianthus puniceus and its
white variety, Grevillea sulphurea. Viburnum
rugosum and Rhapithamnus cyanocarpus.

iNurserymen's exhibits formed a bright addi-
tion to the show. The Devon Rosery, Tor-
quay, staged a large collection of pot Rosea in
bloom, as well as a large number of cut blooms.
The Craven Nursery, Clapham, Yorks,, showed.
a selection of rock plants prettily arranged,,
amongst which were Primula farinosa, P.
Clusiana, P. frondosa, P. multiceps, Androsace
pyrenaica, covered with tiny white flowers,
Bryanthus erectus, Edraianthus serpyllifolius,
and others. Messrs. Wallace, Colchester, had
Anemone Pulsatilla, Iris stylosa. Primula Auri-
cula, Fritillaria aurea, Erythronium revolu-
tum, Bellis sylvestris, Puschkinia libanotica,
Hepaticas, and many Tulips. Messrs. Barr &
Sons staged a representative collection of
Daffodils, amongst which were noticeable Duke
of Bedford, Egret, Seagull, Pharaoh, Strong-
bow, Canary Queen, Mrs. C. W. Earle, Argent,
Cassandra, Cleopatra, Princess Maud, and
Mountain Maid. Messrs. Ware & Co. showed
Iris caucasica, Dodecatheon Hendersoni, num-
bers of named varieties of Primula Sieboldi,
Mertensia virginica, Crassula Cooperi alba,
Erythronium californicum, /Ethiaonema stylosa,
Orobus vernus albus, Gaultheria procumbens^
Saxifraga Elizabethae, and S. Burseriana.
Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, Exeter, had a large
selection of shrubs and rock plants, amongst
which were Primula denticulata, P. cashmeri-
ana, P. nivalis, P. Allioni, P. viscosa, Saxifraga
Rhei superba, S. apiculata, S. Grisebachii, S.
Guildford seedling, Androsace sempervivoides,,
A. villosa, A. pyrenaica, Morisia hypogaea,
Dondia Epipactis, Xanthoriza apiifolia, Mag-
nolia stellata, M. conspicua, M. Soulangeana
nigra, Grevillea Forsteriana, Hardenbergia
monophylla and Lotus peliorhyncus. Mr. G.
Reuthe, Keston, Kent, had Tanakea radicans,.
Daphne indica, D. Blagayana, Iris sindjarensis,,
Erythronium grandiflorum, Brachysema lanceo-
lata, Lithospermum rosmarinifolium, and other
plants. Messrs. Tresedek &: Co., Truro, showed
Tree Ferns, of which they have supplied a large
number to gardens in South Devon and Corn-
wall, and other decorative plants.

NATIONAL AMATEUR GARDENERS'.

April 3. — This association held its April flower
show and lecture at Winchester house, Old Broad
Street, EC. on the above date. Mr. T. W.
Sanders, F.L.S., the president, presided, and an
interesting lecture on the cultivation of Tomatos
and Cucumbers was delivered by Mr. W. Dyke.

In the Great Hall the exhibition of flowers, &c..
was a sight one would hardly expect to find in the
very heart of the city. These exhibits are mostly
grown by amateurs engaged in various City com-
mercial houses during the day, and the high stan-
dard of quality demonstrates the fact that even
with very limited time at his disposal, the intelli-^
.gent amateur is capable of producing fruit,
\'egetables and flowers worthy of a place on any
exhibition table.

The judges drew special attention to the excel-
lence of the Ladies' Table and other decorative
exhibits, of which there were a dozen.

The next flower show will take place on May
I, at 7 p.m., and the lecture will be on " Cactus.
Dahlias," by Mr. J. B. Riding.

The annual subscription to this association is
5s., and the hon. secretary is Mr. Richard
Cordwell, 35, Medusa Road, Catford, S.E.

DUMFRIESSHIRE AND GALLOWAY
HORTICULTURAL.

April 4. — The annual meeting of this society
was held in theTown Hall, Dumfries, on the above
date. The chair was occupied by Mr. R. Service,
of Messrs. James Service & Sons, the chairman
of directors. A satisfactory financial report was
submitted by the secretary and treasurer, Mr. R.
G. Mann. It was agreed to hold the usual Chry-
santhemum show on November 7. The Secretary
and treasurer is Mr. R. G. Mann; Courier and
Herald Office, Dumfries,

240

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 14, 1906.

GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES.

CHELMSFORD AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'.

— The closing meeting of the present session was held on
Friday, March 23, a good attendance of the members result-
ing. Mr. S. Pragnell, of Brooniheld Lodge, read a paper on
" Stove and Greenhouse Plants," deahng with the subject
in a very exhaustive and practical manner. Specimens of
various stove and greenhouse plants were exhibited, and a
number of lantern slides made the lecture more interesting.
W. C. S.

REDHILL, REIGATE AND DISTRICT GAR-
DENERS'.—This association held their usual fortnightly

meeting on Tuesday, tJie 27th ult., there being a very
large attendance of the members. Mr. M. J. R. Dunstan,
of Wye College, gave a lecture on " The Manurial Require-
ments of Garden Crops."

CARDIFF GARDENERS'.— The nineteenth annual
general meeting of this association took place at the Sand-
ringham Hotel, Cardiff, on March 20, vrhen Mr. R. Mayne
presided over a large attendance of the members. The hon.
treasurer, Mr. T. Malpass, in presenting the ba'aace sheet,
stated that it was the most favourable one he had ever sub-
mitted. Every liabihty had been met, and besides out-
standing subscriptions, he had a balance in hand of fourteen
shillings and sixpence. Mr. John Julian, the hon. secretary,
gave his report upon the work of the society for the past
year. The annual summer and autumn outings were men-
tioned, also the annual dinner, and the lecturers and prize
donors who had so ably and generously contributed
to the success of the meetings. A large number of new
members have been enrolled during the year, and the
attendance has again established a record. A word of
thanks was tendered to the committee for their assistance
in carrying on the work, which had been the heaviest
in the annals of the association. The report was unani-
mously adopted. The chairman spoke at some length upon
the work and progress the society has made. The election
of officers for the ensuing year was nest proceeded with.
Mr. J. J. Neale, " Lynwood," Penarth, was elected presid-
ent. The whole of the vice-presidents were re-elected,
and the retiring president was elected an hon. member.
The following gentlemen were each re-elected to their
respective offices: chairman, Mr. R. Mayne; vice-chair-
man, Mr. C. E. Collier; hon. treasurer, Mr. T. Malpass;
hon. secretary, Mr. John Julian ; and Messrs. T. Clarke,
H. R. Farmer, H. Gillett, J. Mountney, W. J. Prosser, and
M. Toy, as members of tlie committee, with the names of
Messrs. Wm. Davies and T. Richards added in the place of
Messrs. C. Lewis and F. Waller, who have resigned ofl&ce.
/. Julian.

CATALOGUES RECEIVED,

ENGLISH.

Ransomes, Sims & Jefferies, Ltd., Orwell Works, Ipswich

— Lawn Mowers.
William Wallace & Co., Benston Nursery, Johnstone,

N.B. — Pansies, Violas, Chrysanthemums, &c.
Fisher & Ludlow, Ltd., Art Metalworkers, Rea Street,

Birmingham— Silver-plated flower holders, epergnes, cS:c.
Clibrans, Altrincham, Manchester and Bramhall— Dahlias.
George Bunvard ^; Co., Royal Nm"series, Maidstone-
Hardy Herbaceous Plants.
Maurice Prichard, Christchurch, Hants. — Herbaceous

and Alpine Plants.
M. V. Seale, The Nurseries, Sevenoaks— Dahlias and

bedding plants.
A. J. Keeling & Sons, Westgate Hill, near Bradford, Yorks

— Orchids.
H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent— General.

FOREIGN.

FRAN901S Gerberaux. 17, Kue de Cronstadt, Nancy, France
— Garden and Indoor Plants, including Novelties.

E. Schmidt, Horticulteur a Lyon-Vaise, France— Bedding
Plants, i^c, including Novelties.

V. Lemoine et Fils, Rue du Montet, Nancy, France-
Plants.

Peter Lambert, Trier, Germany, — New Roses for 1906.

Wm. A. Peterson, ioS, La Salle Street, Chicago.— Hardy
Trees, Shrubs, and Plants.

James Vick's Sons, Rochester, New York, U.S.A.— Treatise
on Chinese .Asters, with list of varieties.

Callander Cactus Co., Springfield, Ohio, U.S.A.— Cacti
and plant novelties.

Billiard et Barre, 10, 12, Rue de Chatenay, Fontenay-
aux-Roses, Seine, France— Stove plants and Cannas.

Jardins Correvon Floraire Chene Bourg., Geneva— .\
comprehensive list of Alpine and other hardy plants.

COLONIAL.

C. A. NoBELius, GeiiibrooK Nurseries, Emerald, Victoria,
Australia— Fruit trees.

SCHEDULES RECEIVED.

Worthing Horticultural Society's Summer show, to
be held in the Steyne Gardens, Worthing, on Wednesday,
August I, 1906, and the Autumn show to be held in the
Bedford Hall, Worthing, on Tuesday and Wednesday,
November 13, 14, 1906.

Presentatjon to Mr. D. C. Powell,

PowDERHAM. — On Tuesday, theioth inst,,atthe
Guildhall, Exeter, by the Maj'or of Exeter,
who this year is President of the Devon and
Exeter Horticultural Society, Mr. D. C. Powell
was presented with a handsomely-framed ad-
dress and a substantial cheque on the occasion
of his leaving Devonshire for South Africa,
which will take place this month. The sub-
scribers numbered about eighty, and included
the Mayor, past presidents and honorary secre-
taries of the Devon and Exeter Horticultural
Society, the Devon and Exeter Gardeners' As-
sociation, and many other Devonshire friends.
The address was in the name of the subscriber?
" as a small memento to show their apprecia-
tion of Mr. Powell, and of his services towards
the advancement of horticultural work gener-
ally." Mr. Powell, who has always been very
popular in the western county, years ago as
an exhibitor, and subsequently as a judge
at the local shows, has been head gardener at
Powderham Castle under three Earls of Devon
in succession, and, for some years past, has
been lessee of the gardens on his own account.
Ill-health in his family has induced him to go
to South Africa. A. H.

The RIVIERA'S Gardener-Poet. — The

Riviera will on Sunday next witness a charming
ceremony. It is not often that a poet has claims
upon industry, but to Alphonse Karr, the gardener-
poet of the Riviera, that beautiful region owes all
the prosperity that it does not deri\'e from visitors.
Karr settled at Nice in 1852, when the place was
still a part of the dominions of Victor Emmanuel.
To people of the present day the statement seems
hard to believe, but it is true, that the cultivation
of flowers was so little known in the Riviera that
cut flowers for a local banquet had to be ordered
from Genoa. The poet changed all that. His
garden was the cradle of the great cut flower trade
of the Riviera, and he lived long enough to say,
half in jest, half in earnest, " I am the last of the
gardeners; they are all horticulturists now."
Globe.

ENQUIRIES AND REPLIES.

Law of Greenhouses. — Under the London
Building Act, greenhouses are exempt if 30 feet
away from a house, &c. I have recently erected
a tenant's fixture greenhouse 15 feet by 9 feet, and
the borough surveyor threatens proceedings unless
I give notice. He claims notice under Section 76
of the Metropolitan Management Act, where it
says : Before proceeding to lay or dig the founda-
tion of any new house or building, seven days'
notice must be given. I reply that my green-
house has no foundation, but is all wood and glass
and rests on a single course of loose bricks laid on the
ground level, and is a tenant's portable fixture. He
replies that whether or not he is entitled to notice,
and shall take proceedings. This view upsets all
our previous ideas of the subject, and is of im-
mense importance to amateurs in the suburbs.
Can anyone give me any information on this
matter? C, Lewisluim.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Book : P. H. Exotic i-orcst and Park Trees for
Europe, by Dr. H. Mayr, can be obtained
through Messrs. Williams & Norgate, Henri-
etta Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C.

Cattleya ScHRODERiE ALBA: M. Pclkcn, Tcnuta
di Bosoibello, Fircnze, Florence. Your flower is
of good size and shape, and is white with
dark orange disc to the lip. On first opening,
the blooms of a good number of ordinary
Cattleya Schroderas appear to be white, but
afterwards assume a pale lilac tint. The speci-
men you send is a mature flower and the variety
will consequently remain true.

Hoi Water Pipes : V. C. We cannot recom-
mend individual firms; scan our advertising
columns.

Lease of Vinery and Glasshouses : Muscat.
It is for the parties to the contract to determine
whether or not the lease to be undertaken shall
be a repairing lease. If it is to be a lease under
which the tenant will be required to deliver up
the houses, &c., on the termination of the lease,
in such a condition as will satisfy the landlord,
then the rent will naturally be less in amount
than it would otherwise be. In such an event
the landlord should put the premises into first-
class repair before they are taken over by
tenant, unless an agreed sum of money is
allowed the tenant to carry out such repairs for
himself.

Names of Plants: J. H. B. i, Skimmia
japonica var. ; 2, Rubus species, probably R.
spectabilis. — JB. i. Heeria rosea ; 2, Mercu-
rialis perennis (male). — Pinehurst. i. Daphne

pontica; 2, Rhamnus Alaturnus. — G. F. T.
Forsythia suspensa. — R. T. S. Colocasia anti-
quorum.
Narcissus telamonius plenus : Geo. E. See-
ing that the growth is vigorous, and therefore,
as we presume, quite healthy, the only conclu-
sion we can arrive at in the matter is that the
bulbs have reached a stage where division and
replanting are essential to continued free flower-
ing. Permanently-planted bulbs naturally break
up periodically, and this much is proved by
the many extra growths made by your bulbs.
The non-flow-ering this season is because no
fiowers were made by the the bulbs last sea-
son, therefore it would appear that the breaking
up of the bulbs was in progress at that time. It
is at this stage that deterioration quickly ensues
if the bulbs are not lifted and divided. If this
is not done the stock may go on for years, and
the bulbs being tightly packed together they
will diminish rather than increase in size. See-
ing that most of the bulbs have failed to bloom,
this would be consistent with bulbs planted at
one time, or of one age or size. If the circum-
stances are as you have described them you will
get but little flower next year, and you should
watch the other varieties to prevent a similar
result. You can do nothing with those that
liave failed until the foliage shows signs of
ripening off, when you may lift, divide, and
replant the bulbs as soon as convenient. Mean-
while mark the positions of the clumps by placing
sticks against them.
Nkctarines and Peaches Dropping : 7. S. H.
Not knowing all the conditions to which the
trees ha\e been subjected we cannot say with
certainty what is the cause of the fruits falling.
It is certainly not due to fungus, and the more
probable reason appears to be over-cropping the
trees. If Peach and Nectarine trees fail to re-
ceive sufficient water at their roots they will also
cast their fruits ; the same trouble is sometimes
experienced during the stoning period, but your
fruits do not appear to have reached that stage.
The Grape vine may have failed to ripen its
wood, and this would explain its non-fruiting
condition. See that the wood is thoroughly
ripened this season, and you may have a crop
next year. The failure of the Pears points to
over-cropping last season.
Nonconformist Primroses : D. C. The Prim-
roses you send are not uncommon but are very
interesting, the five sepals which are usually
united nearly all the way up to form a tubular
calyx are here entirely disconnected, so that
the calyx consists of five detached sepals which,
moreover, are more or less leafy in character.
In some of the flowers the five petals of the
corolla are in like manner disconnected.
Petunia Seedling : 5. &■ M. Although very
rich, the colour is rather dull, and would not
be likely to find favour with many growers.
Potatos : H. F. The Potatos are badly infested
with scab (Oospora scabies), and were grown
nndfr conditions favourable to the development
of this fungus. Where the land favours the
disease, it can be kept in check by dusting
sulphur in the rows when planting. It is better
not to use scabbed Potatos for sets, but if this
must be done, if the sets are steeped for half-an-
hour in a solution of half-a-pint of formalin in
fifteen gallons of water, all the fungus spores
will be destroyed.
Spruce Fir Attacked : T. The injuries are the
result of an insect — Chermes — whose presence
is responsible for the galls seen. Burn any of
the shoots badly affected and spray the remain-
ing ones with petroleum emulsion. If the
specimens are large trees, we are afraid your
chances of combating the disease are small.
Temple Show ; W. D. C. The Royal Horticul-
tural Society's Show in the gardens of the
Inner Temple, Thames Embankment, will be
held on May 29, 30, and 31.
Vines Diseased : H.L. The young growths are
affected with " Browning " disease. See answer
to P. R. C. in our last issue ; also an article with
figure in our issue for August 19, 1893, p. 217.

Communications Received.— C. S. C — C. P., Ghent—
W. H. W.-F. J. C— B. S. W.— D. C— Hans Gussow—
Sir Michael Foster — W. B, Hartland— G. W., very com-
inon-P. & Son-W. G. S.— D. R. W.— S. D. B.— F. J. C.
—A. H.— J. V. & Sons— C. T. D.— M. A.— A. A. W.-G. S.
— G. L. N.— H. B.— King's Acre— C. R. & Son.— Peach
Tree— R. B.— M. A. W.— S. C— M. M. N. (Kindly send
name and address, not necessarily for publication)— S. A.—
A. Y. L.-W. A. C— W. H. V.-H. W. W.— C. G. G.— J. R.
For Market ami WealJiey Reports sec page s.

Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

Views in the Royal Botanical Gardens, Edinburgh, showing the exterior of the Great
Temperate House, and part of the Pond as it appears early in Spring.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15. Rosebery Avenue, London. L.C.

Apeil 21, 1308.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

241

THE

#aibxners'CbionirIe

No. 7,008,— SATURDAY, April 2U 1906.

CONTENTS.

Aspidistra seedlings ...
Boilers, greenhouse ...
Books, notices of —

Country Gentlemen's
Estate Book

Index Filicura

Kew Bulletin

Orchis

Cabbages, spring
Carnation society, the

newly-formed
Clurysanthemum W. J.

Crossley

Custom, an old feudal...
Daffodils in the open ...

Elder flowering

Embalmed heart, an ...
Gardening charities, a

concert in aid of
Kew, the wild garden at
Lilium candidum, seed-
ing of

Market gardening —

Crops for profit
Natural selection among

plants

Obituary —

Hill, Evelyn E.

Honess, Mrs

Mahon, John

Plants new and note-
worthy—

Pleurothallis Barbo-
sana

251
251

248
243
249
248
242

251

248
251
248
249

24U

248

251

244

Portraits of botanists ... 249

Pruning trees and shrubs 244

Prunus Pissardi fruiting 249
Rhododendron mundu-

lum 251

Saxifragas, some yellow

flowered 249

Societies —

Devon Daffodil

Hailstorm Insurance

National Auricula and
Primula

Royal Horticultural
(Scientific Commit-
tee)

United Horticultural
Benefit and Provi-
dent

255
249

255
252

256
249

Stocks, proliferous

Trees and Shrubs —
Hybrid Rhododen-
drons 242

Tree trunk with buried
inscription 249

Vintage fruits 241

Week's work, the —
Flower garden, the .
Fruits under glass ,
Hardy fruit gardtfi .
Kitchen garden, the
Orchid houses, the .
Plants under glass .

247
246
247
247
246
246

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Anthurium inflorescence with two spatlies

255
256
256
243
250
260

Diagram of a croquet green, a

Portrait of the late John Mahon

Rhododendron Griffithianum -

Saxifraga apiculata

Saxifraga Boydii, a fine specimen of

Seed of the Silver-leaf tree, Leucodendron argenteum

showing method of dispersion 254

Tree pruning, right and wrong methods of 244, 245, 246

Tree trunk with buried inscription 249

Wild garden at Kew, the, in spring-time (Supplementary

Illustration).

VINTAGE FRUITS.

^T OW that a Government departmental
, committee is consideriiiij tlic economic
' side of fruit culture, and proposals
have been made for the formation of a
National Fruit and Cider Institute, it is
to be hoped that the question of vintage
fruits will receive a proper amount of con-
sideration, and that a decaying industry may
be restored to its former importance. Land-
owners and tenants alike will welcome some
useful system by which to work ; and such a
system can only be devised from information
derived from practical tests. Numbers of
fruit growers at the present time practise
methods handed down to them like family
heirlooms, and with no other consideration
than that which rivalry excites to produce
something better than their neighbours. Cer-
tainly some little difficulty would arise in
convincing the farmers and the cider makers
to depart from their well-beaten track ; but
by perseverance and practical demonstra-
tions this might be accomplished. It must
not be expected that a sweeping revolution
will result immediately, for one great rea-
son— many of the varieties of so-called cider
fruits grown at the present day are unsuitable
for producing the best results. These must.

therefore, be culled out, and good and well-
known varieties substituted. The farmers
in the extreme south-western counties will
suffer mostly in this respect, for many have
for numbers of years continued propagating
and planting trees irrespective of quality,
and whose only recommendation is that they
are heavy croppers. Many growers are al-
ready heading down these trees and "work-
ing " upon them better class varieties, a
practice which saves both expense and time.
During my residence in cider-growing dis-
tricts I have been impressed with the hap-
hazard metliods employed bv most of those
engaged in this industry. What is necessary
is an experimental station, supported by a
Government grant, under the jurisdiction of
the county councils, in the various cider-pro-
ducing districts. Land should be procured
and pkinted with the most approved kinds, so
that close observation may be kept upon the
growth and fruitfulness of the trees and a
strict analysis nTade of each variety for the
purpose of determining the density of juices,
the quantity of saccharine matter present,
and the flavour of each individual variety.
More than this is needed : laboratory experi-
ments prosecuted by experts having a know-
ledge of determining the best and most suit-
able combination of juices to produce the
best results. In all our breweries each in-
dividual brew is scientifically tested by quali-
fied chemists, who know exactly what the
results of the brew will be. In similar in-
dustries some such lines of procedure should
be considcrcKi.

Consideralile experience is necessary in the
manner ciders sliould be managed, for differ-
ent varieties are " fined " and bottled easier
than otiiers. .\n analysis of the fruit grown
in one district could not be taken as a stand-
ard of quality for the whole country. I have
no hesitation in saying that a cider manufac-
tured from a given variety of .\pple in one
locality and showing a high percentage of
saccharine matter and rich juices would else-
where show a considerable diminution in
these respects. Many of the fruits grown
for vintage purposes at the present time pos-
sess no special quality, neither would they
improve were they blended with other liquors.
I cannot but think those ciders are injurious
to the .system which cause the drinker to
contort his features in no pleasant manner,
thereby denoting the draught is anvthing
but palatable.

-There are many cider manufactories in
various .Apple-growing districts which offer
a ready market for the disposal of cider
fruits. Some of the cider from these places
is of a very high quality, but prohibitive in
price to the general consumer.

There is no question but that the culture
of cider .Apples pays well in districts where
the soil is suitable ; for, unlike choice varie-
ties of dessert and culinary fruits, which re-
quire to be carefully gathered and stored,
vintage kinds do not require much labour
and expense, excepting in the case of a few
kinds.

Several varieties of Normandy cider .\pples
were obtained from that country by the late
Dr. Bull, who prosecuted exhaustive enquiries
to procure those of the highest quality. I am
pleased to say I was one of the first to assist
in " working " those scions in this country,
and as they are not generally known I will
mention some of the best.

Bedan-des-Partes is a large " bitter-sweet"
of vigorous growth, very fertile, the fruits
producing cider of the highest flavour and of

a good colour. .Argile Grise, Bramtot, Fr^-
quin d'.Vudievre, Rouge Bruyere are all "' bit-
ter-sweets," furnishing excellent cider.
Michelin and De Bouteville are from the
same source, but their juices are not so rich
in quality. Bitter-sweet .Apples are gener-
ally rich in saccharine matter ; they, there-
fore, produce the sweetest cider, which is not
always the richest, but by blending other
suitable juices with them they increase the
strength and richness of the whole, and in
some cases enhance the keeping qualities.

Perhaps the best, certainly one of the old-
est and most universallv grown, cider fruits
is Kingston Black (" Sifu " Black Apple of
.Somerset, or Taunton Black). It is pro-
bably planted more extensively than any other
variety, and is one of those whose fruits can
also be used for culinary purposes. In external
appearance it is deep red, which colour some-
times penetrates into the flesh. It is an e.x-
cellent cropper, and the liquor which it pro-
duces is of superior flavour. In the counties
of Somerset and Devon this .Apple is largely
grown, and combined with the juice of a local
variety named Hangdown produces excellent
cider.

There are other vintage fruits which find
a ready sale in the fruit shops and are largely
purchased in Herefordshire for consumption
in different parts of Wales. The best of this
class is Cherry Pearmain, a second sized,
handsome, and very prolific .Apple of a bright
cherry red colour, of good flavour and adapt-
able for making e.xcellent cider. The trees
commence to bear when quite small. All cider
connoisseurs can detect the juice made from
the old Foxwhelp -Apple, a true Herefordshire
favourite for making cider. This variety
also cooks well and its juice has a high specific
gravity, somewhere about 1.070. The follow-
ing are a few of the older kinds which can
be relied upon to give excellent results : —
Broad-leaved Norman; Cummy Norman, one
of the best ; Comarne Red ; Devonshire Bitter
Sweet, and .Strawberry Norman, a tree of pe-
culiar habit, the growth assuming a form
similar to that of an umbrella ; Cocagee, etc.
Some of these varieties surpass our orna-
mental Crabs for effect, ancl in prominent
positions are both ornamental and useful.

While writing on the subject of vintage
fruits the Perry Pear cannot be passed over,
but what applies to the .Apple also applies
equally to the Pear. The juice of the Pear
when properly prepared and blended equals
champagne, and in some cases is superior to
many brands of that wine upon the market.
Its medicinal qualities are becoming more
recognised by physicians, the neutralising
acids being recognised as beneficial in cases
of " stone," etc.

Perry Pears are not so particular as to soil
as .Apple trees are, and they can be planted
where other fruit trees would fail, or in ex-
posed situations. A variety named Butt is
grown largely in Gloucestershire in very ex-
posed positions, and rarely fails to carry a
heavy crop of fruit. The Perry is strong and
sweeter than that which is obtained from the
znajority of Pears.

What Foxwhelp is amongst cider .Apples
Barland is amongst Pears. This is a small-
sized fruit, producing the richest liquor, with
a flavour the regular consumer soon learns to
know.

The variety of Longland gives a juice of
a very high colour, different to the transpar-
ent fluid of many kinds. This Pear is also
excellent for stewing purposes and for the
making of preserves. For bottling purposes

242

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, 1906.

the variety known as Oldfield cannot be sur-
passed, for the juice keeps well and always
■commands a high price. Other kinds of
perry Pears are grown, but none is superior
to those already mentioned.

In many districts the culture of Perry
Pear trees is much neglected, and the trees
are not replaced when cut or blown down.
When an impetus is given to the cider and
Perry industries by the authorities who are
charged with the welfare of our rural popu-
lation, the producer as well as the consumer
will be greatly benefited. IF. H. Clarke.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

HYBRIDS OF RHODODENDRON
GRIFFITHIANUM.

R. GRiFFrrHi.\NU-M is a native of the Himalayan
region, and is one of the largest-flowered
Rhododendrons in cultivation [see fig. 94]. It
is, however, not hardy except in favoured locali-
ties in the South and West, and, therefore, can-
not be grown elsewhere out of doors, but in gar-
dens where it will succeed it should be planted,
as it is one of the loveliest of the genus. The
flowers are borne in loose trusses of six to
eight, and are, individually, from 5 inches to
6 inches across, of pure white colour when fully
expanded and delicately scented. The leaves
are from 8 inches to 10 inches long, oblong in
shape, dark, shining green above and paler
beneath. This Rhododendron is of a vigorous
constitution, and, crossed with hardy kinds, it
has given us some fine hybrids, and in time will
undoubtedly furnish more. The hybrids are few
in numl)er, but include amongst them some of
the best of the hardy Rhododendrons.

It is only within the last few j'ears that the
value of introducing the blood of R. Griffith-
ianum into the old strain of hybrids has been
properly recognised and appreciated by
hybridists. The older hybrids — raised chiefly
from R. arboreum, R. catawbiense, R. cauca-
sicum, and R. ponticum — have been, and still
are, very great acquisitions, as they possess
brightly-coloured flowers, and are extremely
hardy, but the continual intercrossing of these
hybrids has rendered it difficult to obtain any-
thing fresh in the way of habit and form,
though variations in colour within certain
limits can still be obtained. The use of R.
Griffithianum has already given us a few
hybrids that are from a week to a fortnight
earlier in their period of flowering, and, al-
though they are slightly more tender, they are
still hardy enough to survive any ordinary Eng-
lish winter ; moreover, they possess enormous,
well-shaped trusses of flowers having great con-
stitutional vigour and freedom of growth.

R. CYNTHIA (LORD PALMERSTON).
This old, well-established garden favourite
has large trusses of rosy-crimson flowers and flat-
tened, dark-green leaves, ovate in shape. Cinches
to 7 inches long by about 2^ inches in width.
The flower-bud is about the size of a filbert nut,
pointed, and of a reddish hue. The plant is
of ordinary habit ; that is to say, it is neither
too spreading nor too upright in growth, but
forms a symmetrical, well-balanced plant, the
width of which is well-proportioned to its
height. It is an extremely free bloomer, and
can be relied upon to furnish a good crop of
flowers every year. It is sometimes regarded as
a hybrid of R. Griffithianum, but as there is
no authentic record of its parentage it is almost
impossible to assert this with certainty, but
its large trusses of well-expanded flowers, the
stout, sticky younger growths, its flowering
period being about ten days before the bulk of
other Rhododendron hybrids, and the general

appearance of the leaves justify one in classing
it as such, though there is probably not more
than one-third of R. Griffithianum blood in it.

R. KEWENSE X.
This is a strong-growing, spreading plant with
leaves much resembling those of R. Griffith-
ianum, and having white, well-opened flowers
that are borne in loose trusses. When first
expanded the flowers are of a delicate pink
colour, but they change to white with age,
while in shape and size they resemble those of
R, Griffithianum, and are also very sweet-
scented. The bracts of the young growths are
of a bright red colour. The plant is rather more
tender than the remainder of these hybrids, but
it is worth growing in a sheltered situation for
the beauty of its flowers and its bold, striking
foliage. Another form of this hybrid exists with
rosy-red flowers. R. kewense X is stated to be
the result of crossing R. Griffithianum with R.
Hookeri, but it is curious that two tender
Rhododendrons should produce a hardy off-
spring.

R. MANGLESI (GEORGE HARDY).

This hybrid was raised by the late Mr.
Mangles, and is the result of a cross between
R. Griffithianum and R. album elegan-s, the lat-
ter being a catawbiense hybrid. There are two
or three forms of R. Manglesi in gardens, vary-
ing in colour from pure white to rosy red, but
the typical plant has long, upright trusses of
pure white flowers with a few reddish spots on
the upper petal. The truss of flower is very
narrow in proportion to its height, and it is
liable to become bent and damaged by wind or
heavy rains. The individual flowers are from
3 inches to 4 inches across, and when the plant
is in full bloom it forms a striking and attrac-
tive object. The leaves are 4 inches to 5 inches
long by about IJ inches in width, ovate-lanceo-
late in shape, pointed, and usually turned down-
wards at their edges. In habit the plant some-
what resembles album elegans, being upright,
tree-like, and soon attains to a considerable
size.

R. MRS. E. C. STERLING.

This is a near relative of Pink Pearl, having
been raised from the same batch of seedlings,
and, but for the advent of Pink Pearl, would
probably have attracted greater attention than
it now receives. The flowers are borne in up-
right conical trusses, and are individually from
3 inches to 4 inches in. diameter, of a semi-
transparent pinky-lilac colour, without spotting.
The ovate-lanceolate leaves are 6 inches to 8
inches long, dark, glossy-green in colour, and
turned downwards at the edges. In habit this
plant is strong and spreading, and very free-
flowering.

R. PINK PEARL.

This has been figured and described so many
times in the Gardeners' Chronicle that it is al-
most unnecessary to do more than mention it.
In habit it is the strongest-growing hybrid
Rhododendron out-of-doors, is hardy in most
localities, and is very free-flowering when it has
attained a moderate size. The inflorescences are
pyramidal in shape, and are composed of large,
well-expanded flowers, each 4 inches to 5 inches
across, of a pure pink colour with a few reddish
spots on the upper petal. The leaves are from
6 inches to 8 inches long by about 2 inches wide,
ovate in shape, stout in texture, and of a deep,
healthy green colour. In point of constifution
Pink Pearl is the strongest Rhododendron we
have, and in the course of the next decade or
two we shall undoubtedly see many fine hybrids
in which it will have played an important part.

R. STRATEGIST.
This is a strong-growing plant of upright
habit, but should be planted in a partially-
shaded situation, as the foliage is very liable

to burn in strong sunlight. The leaves are 6
inches or more in length by about 2 inches in
width, dark-green in colour, and turned upwards
at their edges. The flowers are of a delicate
pink colour, and are borne in upright, conical
trusses. This plant was raised by the late Mr.
Standish, of Ascot, and R. Grifiithianum enters
largely into its constitution.

There are several other hybrids of R. Grifiith-
ianum that were raised by the late Mr. Mangles,
but as they are not in commerce it is impossible
to form any idea of their hardiness, though there
can be no doubt as to their great beauty. Some
have been named, for example. Dawn, Liza
Stillman, Dulcie Daflan, Daphne Daffan, Mrs.
Mallard, &c. In raising hj'brid Rhododendrons
the point to aim at is thorough hardiness, for
it is of no use raising beautiful varieties if they
are liable to damage from the sudden changes
of weather experienced in Britain. /. C, Bag.
shot.

VEGETABLES.

THE SPRING CABBAGE CROPS.
The above vegetable is at this time of year so
useful that there are but few gardens where these
plants are not grown. The present crop some
time since, say three months ago, promised, owing
to a mild autumn, to be in a condition for use
early, but this promise has been falsified, not so
much by a severe winter as by the peculiar
weather experienced. Thus the conditions have
at times been very mild, and on other occasions
there have been sudden sharp spells of frost,
just sufficient to arrest growth and check an early
supply. In these gardens the variety Early Gem
is usually ready for cutting the first week in April,
and a few heads were available at that date this
season, but regular cutting will not be general
until two or three weeks later, and the other
varieties we select will then continue the supply.
In some gardens a few days' delay to the Spring
Cabbages may not be felt, but in those where
large quantities are required daily, the earlier the
Spring Cabbage turns in the better. Much of the
autumn and winter supply of vegetables is now
past, and anything in the nature of vegetables
that can take their place will be found useful.

Culture.
I have named Early Gem as our earliest variety.
It is a small kind with few useless outer lea\es.
We grow it on an open position, and it is pro-
tected by deep drills drawn at the time of planting.
I recently saw another system of culture, perhaps
better than mine. Large raised mounds were made,
and in the hollows between them plants of an
early kind were planted, while a late kind was
accommodated on the summit of the mounds.
Quite three weeks' gain was secured by this mode
of culture. Not far from these gardens large
breadths of Spring Cabbages are grown under
unhealed glass structures for market, but I fear it
is not a great commercial success. Glass cannot
be spared in private gardens for this crop. I have
gained time by planting on a south border, and as
soon as the seedlings are two or three inches high
they are planted in rows — similar to the system
known as pricking out — and about nine inches
apart. They were ready this year for cutting the
first week in March, about six weeks earlier than
the general crop. I well remember an old gar-
dener in the north sowing very thinly in a cold
soil a few rows, and thinning the seedlings to
about the distance named, the thinnings taken out
being transplanted for a succession crop. The
plants that were never disturbed were some weeks
earlier, but I may add there was some loss by
plants bolting in a mild season. This loss, how-
ever, is compensated by the earlier supply — ■
and in heavy, cold, clay soils this mode of culture
is worthy of trial. Cabbage culture is simple.

Aprh, 21, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Fig. 94. — RHODODtNDRON GKIFFITHIANUM, FLOWERS WHITE AND FRAGRANT. (See page 242.)

".U

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, ISOG.

and I would add, there is no gain in coddling the
plant. The plants for the main supply should be
grown as hardy as possible. In these days we
possess earlier kinds, and I think varieties of
better quality, at least a small, better flavoured
type of Cabbage suitable for table purposes.
Varieties.
Last season, owing to the kindness of Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Reading, I enjoyed the privilege of
seeing almost every variety of Cabbage worth grow-
ing under trial. Newer varieties possess many im-
provedqualities, such as greater freedom from ' ' run-
ning " or "bolting " than the older types possessed.
Again, each season is furnished with its distinct
kind, and better Cabbages are now available for
the table. I can remember the time when such
kinds as Nonpareil and Drumhead were relied
upon for an early supply, and how woefully they
failed. They often bolted, and required a longer
time to grow than the newer type, although I am
aware that of late years an Improved Nonpareil
has been available ; but this, in my opinion, can
bear no comparison to such kinds as Sutton's
Flower of Spring, Sutton's April, Wheeler's
Imperial, and the older, but excellent, EUam's
Early Dwarf. The introduction of the last-named
was most valuable to private gardens, as it gave
earhness in Cabbages, and it was not at all coarse.
Early Gem, a variety above alluded to, is a
seedling from Ellam's Early Dwarf, the other
parent being Wheeler's Imperial, a small, good
Cabbage, much grown in the West of England,
and a very reliable variety. These small Cabbages,
though excellent for the spring, are not the best
for summer supplies, as later in the season they
lose their desirable characteristics. In the spring
they have few useless outer leaves, while their
compact nature makes them profitable to cultivate,
for many can be grown on a small plot of ground,
and there is no waste. In certain districts peculiar
kinds are favoured. For example, in Scotland
and in the North of England, the Mein's No. 1
is a favourite variety, while in the South, Ellam's
Early Dwarf is largely grown, and in districts
where earliness and quality are considered the
newer Sutton's April and Flower of Spring are
fast becoming standard varieties. I notice that
some of our leading growers have spring and
August sown Cabbages. I would go further, for
it is an easy matter to make four distinct seasons,
spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each with
its varieties. Thus there is no break in an all the
year round supply of this vegetable, b;.. ^o note
the best for this purpose would take much space.
Later I hope to refer to the value of autumn
and winter Cabbages. G. Wytlics, Syoit Housi;
■Gardens, Brentfonl.

MARKET GARDENING.

MELONS AND MUSHROOMS
versus TOMATOS.

If, as Mr. Castle predicts (see p. 204), there will
be a considerable reduction in profits on the
Tomato this year, sometliing else will have to be
grown, partially, ajt the least, to take its place,
and keep the glass houses filled with produce
calculated to bring in fair returns. Why not try
Melons of the kinds one meets with in the French
markets during the summer and early autumn
months? These consist of the thick-ribbed
Cantaloupe variety, which grow to a weight of
6 to 8 lbs., and would sell readily either whole or
cut into thick slices in the shops, or hawked in
the streets, like other common fruits at a cheap
price.

In my neighbourhood very fine Tomatos are
selling, at the present date, at twopence per lb.
{Inferior foreign produce ? — Ed.)

The Cucumber is becoming as cheap as the
Tomato, and many a grower will ha\ e a serious
quarter of am hour -when he contemplartes t'he

probable prices the fruits will fetch in the market
when they arrive in bulk. Very nice Cucumbers
are now being retailed at threepence each, so we
may guess pretty closely at what figure they are
selling, and will sell, wholesale. The Briton,
unlike the Russian and German, cannot make a
meal off a fresh or pickled Cucumber and a chunk
of black bread ; nor will the children bolt off to
school eating their "short prickly" as they go,
as they do in Russia and Germany, and seem to
enjoy it. We have, I suppose, nicer and more
nourishing edibles of all sorts for that. Some
growers with a lot of glasshouses may be tempted
to make them, temporarily, into places in which to
form Mushroom beds, and perhaps when boarded
or matted over these places would not be too
warm, with the windows and ventilators left open,
for the production of Mushrooms. But the pro-
duce must be sold much cheaper than at present
if it is to be bought by the millions. The price
asked for Mushrooms at the shops, viz. : one
shilling per pound in the summer, and even in the
natural season, eightpence a pound, is ridiculous,
and will have to come down to popular ideas of
value. There is no comparison possible between
the cost of production and the rate per pound
asked for at the present day. Prices to the
retail purchaser are not less than they were 40
years ago, when I observed, in a market garden at
Fulham, 40 bushels of Mushrooms gathered on a
winter's morning from a few beds, each of about
80 yards long, made in the open air. These sold
for £1 per bushel, and there were two such
gatherings per week for a month. Those were
golden days for the London market men that
are not likely to return, and growers will have
to rely more on the masses, on small returns, and
greater production, if they are to succeed in their
undertakings. Observer.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

PLEUROTHALLIS B.ARBOS.ANA, NOV. sp.*
This pretty little new species flowered for the
first time in Europe in the Orchid house of the
Botanical Garden, Brussels, on March 25, 1906.
It has yellow flowers in pluriflorous, distichous
racemes. The leaves are small and thick at the
edges, the extremities seem to be trilobulated, being
notched, and the central nerve prominent in the
notch. PleurothaUis Darbosana is allied to P. pluri-
flora which Cogniaux described in the Flora
Brasiliensis III. 4 p. 492, and figured in the same
work, pi. cxvi., fig. vi., after the drawings of Prof.
Barbosa Rodrigues, of Rio Janeiro ; but in the last
species the two connate sepals are very acute, and
the two lobes divergent ; in the new species, the
sepals are sub-obtuse, and the two lobes are con-
vergent ; the leaves from the latter species are aU-o
broader than those of the former. This novelty is
a very handsome plant, it bears very many flowers.
We have only seen one plant, bearing 12 racemes.
E. De Wildemaii.

'* PleuyothalUa Barbosaiui Dc Wild, nov. sp. Parv.i.
caespitosa ; caulibus brevissimis, teretiusculis; folio parvo,
carnosulo, oblongo-lanceo'.ato, apice rotundato, emarginato,
apiculato, inferne longe angusteque angustato, petiolato,
obscure trinervio, nervo mediano distincto ; usque ad 6 cm.
long, et 12 mm. lat. ; pedunculo communi solitario, filiforini,
erecto, usque ad medium muitifloro {10-16 fl.), et 15 cm.
Iong.,basi spathaminuto incluso ; bracteis minutis.ochreatis,
glabris, acutis, 1-5 mm. circ. longis ; florilius luteis, parvis
subnutantibus, distichis, longiuscule pedicellatis, pedicellis
capillaribus, 5 mm. circ. longis; sepalis tenuiter niern-
branaceis, dorso oblongo-tricarinatis, 6 mm. circ. longis et
2-2, 5 mm. circ. latis. lateralibus fere usque ad apicem
connatis, subrotundatis. lobis liberis circ. 2 mm. longis, non
divergentibus, basi antice paulo gibbosis, bicarinatis, circ.
7, mm. longis et 3 mm. latis; petalis oblougis, obtusis,
uninerviis, integerrimis, glabris, circ. 2 mm. longis; labello
carnosulo, sesili, indiviso, oblongo-ligulato, basi angustato,
apice rotundalo, margine integerrimo, disco bilamellato,
inter lamellas non puberulo, circ. 2, 5 mm. longo et i mm.
lato : columna brevi, circ. 2 mm. longo, claviformi, erecla,
crassiuscula, inferne leviter angustata, clinandrio tridentato.
— Brasnl P. Binot (v. viv.).

PRUNING TREES AND SHRUBS.

(Concluded from page 227.)
The Pku.mng and Care of Old Trees.

One frequently meets, in old gardens especialh',
trees which, although aged and decrepit, are
still precious because of their history and asso-
ciations, or valuable, perhaps, for their size and
rarity. There is no question but that the term of
years of many such trees is shortened by neglect
and wrong treatment.

A common snurcs of decay in trees is owing to
the stumps of limbs and large branches that have

Fig. 95. — BRAN'CH SAWN OFF INSUFFIClUXTLY
CLOSE TO TRUNK OF TREE.

been wrenched off by storms, or even sawn off'
by hand. The raw or jagged surfaces afford a
resting-place lor moisture and for fungus-spores,
with results that are graphically shown in figures
Q.') and 96. A limb or branch must always be
cut off sufficiently close to the trunk or larger
branch from which it proceeds that no stump
at all remains. (See fig. 97.) The old but very
pernicious practice of leaving a stump a few
inches long is still too often adopted.
It is curious how such practices linger in spite

Fig. 9G. — SHOWING jagged end after ktor\(.

HAS BROKEN OFF A BOUGH.

of endless examples of their evil. In even so-
well-known a work as the last edition but one of
Thompsoii's Gardener^ s Assistant this practice of
leaving stumps was not condemned, but the
"pros and cons" of the question considered.
If a branch is to be removed at all it should be
cut off at once in the way illustrated (figs. 98 and
99), that is, right back to the trunk or larger
branch from which it proceeds. Unless this is
done the stump of wood decays quickly and
leaves a hollow place, such as is seen in fig. 95,
or it decaj's more slowdy, as in fig. 96. In both

April lil, 1S03.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

245

cases it will be seen that the attempts of the tree
to cover the wouod with new wood are futile,
and every facility is afforded for damp and for
fungoid parasites to enter the tree. In fig. 99 is
shown the perfect healing of a wound where the
limb has been sawn off close to the trunk. Fig.
100, p. 246, is a rough diagram showing the pro-
per way to sever a branch at a fork. Owing pro-
bably to the fear of making a bigger wound, the
cut is nearly always made at B. This is wrong,
for, if the branch be thick, the new bark will

Fig. 97- — showing how a br.\nch should be
severed from larger bough or trunk.

never reach over the angle at B and cover the
wound, as it would do if the cut had been
made at A.

Dressing a Wound.
The virtues of ordinary coal tar — not Stock-
holm tar — as a dressing for cut surfaces are not
generally known. All the raw places left bj' re-
moving branches or stumps of branches should
be immediately covered with this antiseptic sub-
stance, and the coating should be renewed as
often as is necessary till the wound is covered
with new bark. The best armour that a tree

Fig. 98. A BRANCH OF OAK SEVERED PROPERLY

A \EAR AGO, THE BARK HAS COMMENCED TO
HEAL OVER.

can have to protect it against fungoid enemies
is that which Nature has provided it, viz., its
bark. But when accident has produced a flaw
in the armour, the most efficient substitute is
coal tar. The practice of nailing lead or zinc
over wounds is a mistaken one. It affords no
genuine protection, and hides whatever mischief
is happening beneath. It is, in fact, about as
efficacious as putting sticking-plaster on a fes-
tering wound.

If, as frequently happens, holes caused by the
decay of slumps exist in tree trunks, they should
be treated in the following way. Remove all, Or
.as much as possible, of the decayed wood ; wash

the surface with a strong solution of carbolic
acid ; after this has become quite dry smear the
surface with coal tar. This antiseptic treatment
is intended to destroy the parasitic fungi and
arrest the decaying process. The hole must now
be filled up and made water-tight. If it be small,
the best " stopping " is formed of a piece of oak
made to fit ; but large holes should be filled with
cement. In either case a final coating of tar
should be given. Except when the hole is very
large, a new la3'er of bark wiU grow over the
cavity when filled in the way described.

The question is frequently asked, what is the
best season of the year at which to remove limbs
of trees. For such dry woods as Oak, Beech,
Hornbeam, &c., 1 find by experience the season
does not matter at all, providing the wound is
immediately tarred. But it is different with the
more sappy woods, like Birch, Horse Chestnut,
and many Conifers. The " bleeding " of such
trees is often long-continued, and causes much
injury if branches are removed in spring ; while,
in the case of some Conifers, it has even been
known to cause death. The best time for such

when the saw is about half way through the cut,
and tearing away part of the bark on the trunk.

Pruning of Flowering Shrubs.

.\s a general rule evergreen shrubs do not need
pruning at all in a systematic way. Such plants
as Rhododendrons, Arbutuses, Kalmias, and
others of the Heath family, Berberis Darwinii,
and B. stenophylla, &c., if they need pruning at
all, require it only to improve or alter their
shape, or to prevent their assuming too large a
size for their quarters. In such cases pruning
should be performed as soon as the flowering
season is over.

Autumn-flowering Heaths, such as Calluna
vulgaris, Erica Tetralix, E. vagans, E. ciliaris,
i-c, are sometimes improved by being cut back
in spring before the new growth commences.
This removes the old flowering twigs of the pre-
vious season and helps to keep the plants dwarf.
It is the more necessary because of the long, lank
growth these Heaths make in garden soils as
compared with the hard, dense growth of the
wild, moorland plants. They should not be

Fig.

gy. -A

TO

BRANCH OF OAK 8 INCHES IN DIAMETER HAVING BEEN SEVERED CLOSE
THE TRUNK THE WOUND IS NOW COMPLETELY HEALED OVER.

trees, and, indeed, the safest generally, is Octo-
ber and November. The flow of sap then is
very much reduced, and time is allowed for the
surface of the wound to harden and the coating
of tar to set before active growth recommences.
The removal of big limbs should be resorted to
only when absolutely necessary. Except in the
case of neglected trees, it constitates no part in
the routine of any proper system of pruning.
But where limbs have been partially wrenched
off by storms, or where questions of safety or
other considerations necessitate their removal,
it should be done in the manner and, preferably,
at the time of year recommended above.

Large branches should always be removed in
at least two pieces. Usually they should be cut
off in three or four ; but this is a matter to be de-
cided on the spot. One thing, however, is
necessary for the proper finishing of the work,
and that is the last piece to be sawn off should
be light in weight, and not more than one foot
or so in length. If the attempt be made to re-
move a big, heavy branch close to the trunk in
once, it nearly always results in aa unsightly
wound; owing to the branch breaking away

clipped back further than the wood of the pre-
vious season.

Deciduous Shrubs.

The pruning of this class of plants, where it
is necessary at all, has to be regulated in ac-
cordance with the flowering season of each
species. For the present purpose they may be
roughly divided into two groups, viz. : (1) Those
that flower on the current season's growth ; and
(2) those that flower from the wood of the pre-
vious year. The first group is much the smaller.
It comprises Ceanothus azureus and its varieties.
Spiraea japonica and its allies, S. Lindleyana,
Hydrangea paniculata. Genista tinctoria, &c.
All these plants bloom in the latter part of the
season ; their flowering is, indeed, the culmina-
tion of the season's growth. In the second
group the flower-buds are formed during the
previous season and remain dormant throughout
the winter. To it belong the Cherries, spring-
flowering Spiraeas, wild Roses, Barberries, and,
in fact, all the earlier-flowering trees and shrubs,
and this, of course, comprises the majority.

Briefly stated, the rule which indicates the
time to' prune all flowering trees and shrubs is

246

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, 1906.

this : Prune at such a season a& will allow of the
fullest possible period of growth before the next
liowering season comes round.

The first group — those whose flowers are
borne on the growths of the current year — should
be pruned during winter or early spring, at any
rate before growth recommences. The previous
year's wood may, if necessary, be cut back
"hard," that is, within a few buds of its base.
Such hard pruning, however, is only desirable
where the shrub is already as large as is re-
quired. Small specimens need the ends only of
the shoots removing.

It must here be mentioned that a small pro-
portion of our second group have to be pruned
at the same time and in the same manner as that
just described. These are the very earliest-
flowering trees and shrubs, such as Forsythias,
Peaches, Almonds, Prunus triloba, &c. Although
they blossom on the wood of the previous year,
they do so before new growth has started, and if
they are cut back " hard " as soon as the flowers
are past, it is only the old flower-bearing wood
that is removed. The entire growing season re-
mains for the development of the new wood.

We now turn to the remainder — those that
flower on the previous season's growth, but con-
currently with or later than the development of
the new. These cannot be cut back in the way
prescribed for the previous group. To do so

Fig. 100. — removal of a branch at a fork, a

CDT made at B would BE WRONG. THE LINE AT

A SHOWS THE PROPER DIRECTION FOR THE KNIFE

OR SAW TO TAKE.

early would be to remove all the flowers ; to do
so later would be to rob the shoots of their best
season of growth. Therefore, such pruning as is
done must be deferred till after flowering, and it
must be a form of thinning rather than a process
of shortening back.

Thinning.

This term, as used in the present connection,
implies the weeding out of all weakly, crowded,
and superfluous shoots, and the removal also, if
necessary, of a proportion of the stronger ones.
Many shrubs, such as the earlier flowering
Spiraeas, the shrubby Loniceras, and Deutzias,
have a natural tendency to thicken into a dense
mass of twiggy growth. A judicious thinning out
such as that just mentioned not only promotes
the development of a cleaner, stronger growth,
and, consequently, finer flowers, but it often
gives also a more graceful aspect to the plant.
It need not necessarily be an annual operation,
but. the question how often, and how much,
must be left to the pruner's individual judg-
ment.

There are some shrubs, of which Philadelphus
Lemoinei may be taken as an example, whose
growths have the power of renewing themselves
from the base each year. Such may, if desired,
be treated as one annually renewed. This Phila-
delphus flowers about midsummer, by which

time the new shoots are 6 inches to 12 inches
long. By cutting away the entire flowering
shoots as soon as the blossoms are over, the
plant is reduced to a cluster of new growths
springing from near to its base. These now ob-
tain the maximum of light and air, and during
the season get to be Ih feet to 2 feet long.
Nearly the whole of this will produce flowers the
following year, and is in turn cut away as soon
as they are faded. By this treatment P. Le-
moinei, which is naturally about 6 feet high, may
be kept less than half as high, and be made to
produce a very much larger crop of flowers.
Crimson Rambler Rose and others of the Poly-
antha group can be treated in the same way.
The " thinning out " form of pruning may be
applied more or less to nearly all flowering
shrubs ; but the shortening baclf process must
only bo adopted for those that have a full season
of growth before they flower. W. J. Bean.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W, H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Dmdrobiiims, — Flowering plants of the genus
Dendrobium have formed a prominent feature in
the Orchid houses since the beginning of the year.
The majority of the species and their numerous
hybrids have now passed their flowering stage,
but at Burford there is still a fair number
of plants in bloom, though many of the fol-
lowing are now passing out of flower : D.
Wardianum, D. crassinode, D. nobile, D.
primulinum, D. cucullatum, D. Findleyanum, D.
lituiflorum, D. signatum and some few hybrids.
These and others that bloomed early will require
attention as to re-potting ; let this be done
before the young growths commence to make
roots, as these tender fibres are apt to get damaged
if the operation is delayed. When re-potting well-
established plants, remove as much of the old
compost as possible, especially that at the back of
the plants, cut away all old pseudo-bulbs that have
bloomed, as they are useless to the plant. The
pots to be used should be of moderate size, and
about one quarter of their depth may be filled
with pieces of w-ell-dried fern, or peat-rhizome.
In re-potting our Dendrobiums we find a far
greater number of living roots entwined among
the rhizomes than among the crocks used for
drainage purposes. Dendrobiums root very freely
in a compost of three parts sphagnum-moss to one
part peat, to which may be added some finely
broken crocks, and a little coarse sand. Plants
that have deteriorated from some cause should be
turned out of their pots, have all dead roots and
decayed parts cut away and be re-potted into pots
as small in size as will conveniently contain them.
Aft'ord plenty of the rliizome for drainage, and use
sphagnum-moss and small crocks only for them
to root into. For dwarf-growing varieties and
those of pendulous habit small pans or the ordi-
nary flower-pot with wire handles attached are
the most suitable. We find these preferable to
teak-wood baskets. Small pans or pots that can
be suspended are also suitable for young seedlings,
which for the first two or three years thrive well
in a mixture of chopped moss, small crocks and
sand, after which time and when they approacli
the flowering stage the addition of a little peat is
an advantage. Water must be applied to all re-
potted plants with special care for several weeks
afterwards, and when the roots are seen pushing
freely through the compost, the amount of water
may be gradually increased. Dendrobiums, with
but few exceptions, require the hot, moist atmos-
phere of the East Indian house or plant stove,
where they should be kept well up to the roof
glass. When the plants are re-established a good
syringing, well up under the leaves, with tepid
rain water at closing time on warm, sunny after-
noons, will be beneficial. For many years D.
Wardianum has proved a very difficult plant to
keep in good health for long togetlier, but now
that for two seasons the plants at Burford ha\e
been growing in a temperature a few degrees
higher than that of the Odontoglossum house,
they have caused but little trouble. They have
bloomed thoroughly well on the current seasons'
growths, and are now in vigorous health. Plants
of V. crassinode, also a difficult subject, will this

season be subjctted to the same temperature.
Nearly all of the species and hybrids of the
section of Dendrobiums above mentioned may
be propagated by cutting oft" some of the old
back pseudo-bulbs, selecting if possible those
which have omitted to bloom, and laying them
down on some sphagnum-moss in a hot, moist
propagating case, or they may be cut up into
small lengths and inserted thickly into pots filled
with moss and sand. We also obtain some plants
by laying the pieces of pseudo-bulbs on the sur-
face-moss around Aerides, Saccolabiums, &c.
When the new growths appear and they commence-
to emit roots, they are taken off and re-potted.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.®

By B. Crom%vell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Ailerton, Liverpool.

Manetlias. — These pretty Brazilian stove
climbers are much admired when trained upon a
wire trellis, a pillar, or a rafter. The flowers are
tubular, about an inch long, of bright orange-
scarlet colour, and are produced in great pro-
fusion. On special occasions I have found the
long growths, with their numerous flowers at-
tached, to be useful in draping the pedestals
supporting large vases, and they have a charm-
ing effect, with their bright green leaves, some-
what resem.bling those of Smilax, but larger in
size. Their culture is simple if potted in a mix-
ture of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts.
Frequent syringings are necessary, red spider
being their chief enemy. When the young
shoots have attained to a foot or so in length,
they may be attached to thin lengths of string
leading to the apex of the roof, and in this way
they are of neat growth, and are very handsome
plants.

Valloia purpurea. — This Cape bulbous plant
.should find a place in every collection. As an
autumn-flowering plant it is useful for furnish-
ing the conservatory, or placing in vases in the
dwelling-rooms. Immediately after flowering in
the autumn is the best time to repot these plants.
Avoid overpotting, as it is not conducive to
healthy growth or free flowering, therefore do
not disturb the plants oftener than is necessary.
Now that the days have lengthened, the supply
of water should be largely increased ; but Val-
lotas, being evergreen bulbs, should not perfectly
be dried off at any time. They may be grown
well in cold pits during the summer months,
providing the pits are closed early in the after-
noon and the plants syringed freely. If a good
stock of plants is kept some may be had in flower
over several months. A compost adapted to
their requirements consists of equal parts good
loam, peat or leaf-soil, well-decayed manure,
crushed charcoal, and coarse sand.

Heated fits and frames. — The crowded condi-
tion of these structures during the next few weeks-
will necessitate extra attention to be exercised
in ventilating them to prevent the plants making
weakly growth. The removal of the pit lights
during bright days where Chrysanthemums and
other subjects are being hardened off will help to.
keep the plants in a good condition. See that
insect pests are not allowed to gain a footing ;
frequent light fumigations are the most
economical in the end. tn

Frame Violets should now be propagated, se-
lecting strong runners for this purpose. If red
spider has been troublesome the runners should
first be treated to a washing with a weak solu-
tion of soft soap and sulphur, after which, if
placed in slight shade in a cold frame, and the
atmosphere is kept close for a few days, they
will soon make new roots.

General remark;. — Follow up closely the trans-
planting from the seed pans of Celosias,
Gloxinias, Begonias, and all greenhouse and
stove annuals. Use the syringe freely on most
stove foliage plants, but avoid its use on
Alocasias and others having metallic-looking
foliage. Maintain suitable atmospheric condi-
tions in the stove and intermediate house ;.
give every encouragement to induce the plants
to make free and clean growths. Keep the pots
in the houses clean, and maintain a healthy con-
dition of the plants generally.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

ByT. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. SirCHAS.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

The Orchard House. — Some of the trees that
were moved into this house early in the season
will have set their fruits, even though the house
is unheated. The advantage of pot trees over

April 21, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

247

trees planted in borders is that they can be
moved about whenever necessary for keeping
them back or forwarding them to get ripe at a
given date. Those which pass out of flower
earlier than others may be arranged together in
one part of the house, where less ventilation is
employed, and where the trees may be syringed
without wetting the flowers on other specimens.
When all the fruits have set, the trees should be
subjected to several slight fumigations to pre-
vent green fly, for if this pest gains a footing in
the points of the young growths it will cause the
leaves to curl and prevent them fulfilling their
proper functions. As the young leaves unfold,
let a sharp look-out be kept for caterpillars,
and pick off by the hand any that can be de-
tected, it being impossible to dislodge them with
the syringe. Each pot containing a tree should
be elevated on two bricks, which will allow the
water to pass away freely. Continue to keep the
house carefully ventilated, preventing cold
draughts.

Strawlicrrics. — It is not at all difficult now to
get fruits of good flavour, providing the plants
have been properly prepared for forcing. From
the present date until the end of June forced
Strawberries will be one of the most valuable
fruits for the dessert. There may be a difficulty
at this season in finding room for the plants,
and they should not be placed in shade; but
they will succeed well on shelves, well up to
the light in the other fruit houses. As the
plants set their fruit, we thin them out to five
fruits on each plant ; tie these to a stake, and
place the plants near to the roof-glass in the
Cucumber house until the fruits ripen. When
the fruits are swelling freely the plants need
much atmospheric moisture, and frequent sup-
plies of diluted liquid manure, and small appli-
cations of artificial manures ; but when ap-
proaching ripeness only clear water should be
afforded. Be careful to prevent red spider or the
fruits will not be satisfactory. Plants commg
into bl"oni should be pollinated daily, and the
atmosphere around them be freely ventilated
during the early part of the day. If mildew is
troublesome dip the plants in a weak solution
of sulphur.

"Melons in frames. — The present is a good time
to make up hot-beds of stable litter and leaves
in pits or frames. Afterwards place a mound of
compost under each light, using rather heavy
loam, wood-ashes, lime scraps, and a sprinkling
of bonemeal, and making the compost firm.
AVhen it has been ascertained that the tempera-
ture of the bed will not rise above 85°, set one
plant on each " mound " ; afford them shade for
a few days until established. Syringe and water
them with tepid water when necessary, and ad-
mit a little air when the weather is such as will
permit of this being done

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh X. Pettigrf.w. Gardener to the Earl of PlViMouth,
St. Fagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Annuals and Perennials in the Wild Garden. — The
present is a good time to naturalise some of the
most appropriate annuals and perennials, either
by sowing or planting. The results thus obtained
are very effective, enhance the pleasure of this part
of the garden during the summer months, and make
a desirable continuation of the display obtained by
the naturalisation of bulbs in the grass during the
spring. A very simple yet excellent effect is easily
obtained by laying bare a broad piece of ground
and sowing it boldly with Shirley Poppies. In the
course of a week or two, after the first shower of
rain, the ground becomes green with the seedlings,
and during a period of the summer months is a
sheet of colour, which never fails to elicit the
admiration of everyone. When preparing the
ground, care should be taken to fork out the roots
of any coarse-growing grasses or herbs which
would be likely to grow stronger than the Poppies.
The Forget-me-not (Myosotis dissitiflora) is a
beautiful subject for this kind of work, and can be
used either in a damp situation or in ordinary soil.
A broad sheet of blue colour, in close proximity to
a streamlet, gives an effect more easily imagined
than described. Seed sown now in a shady border
will produce plants fit for planting out next autumn
for flowering in the following year. The Marsh
Marigold (Caltha palustris), either dotted by the
stream or in masses in a boggy piece of ground,
for its rich colouring of yellow at this time of the
year, is well worth propagating in numbers. The
Foxglove is another very appropriate subject for
naturalising in this manner, as it is undoubtedly

one of the most stately and beautiful of our native
flowers. Not only in large masses does it look
well, but in isolated clumps in out-of-the-way
places by the woodland walks and the sides of
streamlets. It can be grown as an annual, but is
best treated as a biennial, as it thus flowers much
more freely. All that is required is to sow a few
jeeds when they are intended to flower, and they
will look after themselves, and in most cases per-
petuate themselves readily. Many an unattractive
spot in the pleasure-ground can be made beautiful
by means of the Fo.xglove. The Anchusa if sown
now will produce a profusion of bright blue flowers,
which with its borage-like foliage makes a suitable
and welcome wild-gardening plant, while Aconites
and Delphiniums, planted in suitable sites, will
later on make lovely the surroundings. Where
the common Priinrose is not naturally abundant,
a beautiful effect can be obtained by clearing a
piece of ground on a slope or in a dell, and sowing
it in sufficient quantity to ensure a carpet of these
lovely and delicate flowers. The sowings should
be made at the present time. Similar effects could
be had with the common Cowslip and Oxlip.

The Lackey Moth {Clisiocampa Netistria). — This,
moth causes much damage to trees. The eggs are
deposited in the autumn, in rings around the-
branches, the rings often containing from one to-
two hundred eggs. They begin to hatch about
this time, and soon after hatching the grubs com-
mence to form a fine web, enclosing some foliage,
upon which they feed, and if not discovered and
arrested they soon cause much injury to a tree. To
combat them spray the trees with arsenate of lead
mixed with petroleum emulsion.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Trees in Odd Corners. — See that no tree has
escaped notice, remembering that a tree, if in an
out-of-the-way corner, has a purpose to serve,
and this it cannot do properly unless it is given
attention. A good top-dressing or mulch may
work w'onders upon trees so placed. Examine
newly planted trees, and afford ties or stakes if
these have become detached. Where small de-
tails are observed, larger ones are never
neglected.

.ilpine Strati'bcrries. — The ground apportioned to
these plants should now receive a thorough clean-
ing. If the plants have been lifted out of the
.soil by the action of the weather, they must be
made firm. At the same time apply a top dressing
of some good soil with a little soot added around
the " collars " of the plants. If seeds have been
sown as advised on p. 135, the little plants should
now be making their appearance. Guard against
their damping at this stage by removing the boxes
containing them into a somewhat drier atmosphere.
It is not too late even now to sow seeds if this has
hitherto been overlooked.

Crops on Fruit-tree borders. — Crops of early \ege-
tables should not approach nearer to the base of
the wall on which fruit trees are trained than a
space of -t feet, as room must be left to allow of
the examination of the trees and attendance to
their requirements. Moreover, the surface roots
must not be disturbed, for these are the roots of
primary importance, and their development should
be encouraged. It is painful to see a suitable wall
but partially covered with inferior grown trees,
the result often of impoverishing the border with
the roots of other crops.

Raspberry Suckers. — These should be removed
with a fork, and only the necessary growths in
close proximity to the old stool allowed to remain.
By pushing a fork under the sucker, they can be
pulled away easily without disturbing the main
roots, but the ground should be trodden firm
afterwards.

Disbudding Apricots. — Commence this operation
by taking away all superfluous shoots, starting at
the top of the tree, as this will give an impetus to
any weak growths nearer the base. Apricots are
sometimes partially grown on the spur principle,
but even in this case it is necessary to take away
some of the shoots. Old trees are frequently
studded with fruit spurs, and where a good set of
fruits has been obtained thin out all those that are
in defective positions, but they may be left some-
what thicker than are Peaches and Nectarines,
and in their case it is better to thin early.

Peaches and Nectarines should be frequently
examined, and prompt measures applied for the
discovery and eradication of any insect pests, as
the trees may be practically ruined by these foes
in a few days, especially when the weather is
not congenial. Continue to draw down the blinds
at night-time. It is quite possible that trees on light
soils and at the foot of a south wall will need
water. This, if found necessary, should be given in
sufficient quantity without delay. Water for this
purpose should be allowed to stand in the sun for
an hour or more, or it may be warmed slightly by
other means, but as the temperature of the earth
is now only 45° it must not be unduly warmed.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Turnips. — A good breadth may now be sown with
this vegetable with every chance of safety from
injury through frosts — a well-tilled soil of fairly
rich character is best suited to this crop. " Club "
and " Finger and Toe " are responsible for many
failures with Turnips, and these are generally
attributed to the ground having been frequently
planted with the Brassica tribe, but this is not
always the case, as I have had ample proof.
The best preventive is undoubtedly the growth
of the plants in well-trenched soil that has had
the bottom spit brought to the top annually,
providing it is in good condition and not an inert
mass of clay, or pure sand as the case may be.
The breeding of many insect pests is much dis-
turbed by this process, and the soil also is made
in a better condition. Soot and lime are not
effectual against the disease, but wood-ashes have
a beneficial effect on the crop. The varieties
having deep, fleshy bulbs are to be preferred
during hot weather to the flatter varieties of
which White Milan will explain what I mean.
Snowball is one of the best of Turnips, and
where yellow varieties are prized a good strain of
Orange Jelly, or Golden Ball, should be selected.
Later on Swedes should be sown for use during
winter. These make a splendid vegetable, and
especially the garden form of Swedes, the quality
of which is much better than that of the field
varieties.

Peas. — Plants from the early sowings are having
a good time this season owing to the continuous
sunshine and warm days, although frost in this
district is of nightly occurrence, 9" being regis-
tered this morning (April 10). The soil is be-
coming dry, and unless there is rain shortly it will
be well to sow seeds a little deeper and to damp
the line before sowing to ensure quick germina-
tion, otherwise the supply may run short at a time
when least expected. Mulching of this crop by
stable litter cannot be too strongly recommended,
and the best time to do this is immediately after
applying the stakes. Fork the soil over and apply
6 inches of rough straw, thus conserving the
moisture in the soil. On light soils much water
will need to be afforded both at the roots and
overhead.

Vegetable Marrows. — Those intended for culti-
vation in the open ground should be raised from
seeds sown at the present time. There is no gain
in sowing earlier unless protection can be given
the plants by frames, as Marrow plants are-
injured by the slightest frosts. Sow the seeds,
singly in pots, and place the pots in a frame where
the plants will grow slowly and sturdily. Plant
them out at the end of May or early in June.
The Sutton Marrow is a beautiful and refined
fruit, and should be grown with Pen-y-byd. These-
are preferred to the large, coarse, white varieties.
A small round variety of the green form, and
named Perfection, also raised by the Reading
firm a few years ago, is almost a counterpart of
Pen-y-byd except in colour. These small varieties-
have the best quality. Everyone should grow the
Custard Marrow, which is equally good and of
very free fruiting habit. i

Gherkins.' — This small Cucumber requires much
the same treatment as the Marrows, both as
regards time of sowing and otherwise, but in cold
districts a cool frame would be an advantage to
the plants for a time, at least, when the plants are
first put out.

Hoeing. — At no season of the year can so
much good be done by the use of the hoe to
kill the seedling weeds as the present time.
Numberless seeds are on the point of germinat-
ing, and when growth has just commenced they
can be easily killed. In addition, great good
will be done in the aeration of the soil. There-
fore use the hoe whether weeds are visible or

2-lS

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE,

[April 21, 1C06.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER. 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41. Wellingfton Street, Covent Garden, London.

Comimmications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the sig}iaturc will tiot be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— r/ie Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused covimunications or illustrations, unless by
special arranganent. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations. — The Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, Jioicers, trees^ &c., but he
cannot be responsible for lossor injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondcjits semting newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragrapiis they wish the Editor to see.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable

to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

1 Midland Daf. Soc. Exhibition at

I Birmingham Botanic Gardens

WEDNESDAY, April 25 V inconjunctionwiththeNational

Auricula & Primula Soc. Show

j (2 days).

FRIDAY, April 27 Roy. Hot. Soc. meet.

SATURDAY, April 28 Dutch Card. Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 49'4*.

Actual Temperatures: —

LouDoK.—Wednesiiay, Apiil 18 (6 p.m.) : Max. 50°; Min.
40'.

Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, April 19
(10 a.m.): Bar., 29.7; Temp., 46'; Weather—
Dull, with cold winds.

Provin'Ces. — Wednesday, April 18 (6 p.m.): Max. 45'
South of England and Ireland ; Min. 40'
Scotland N.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY—

Herbaceous plants. Carnations, Roses, Rhododendrons,
Bes^onias, &c. . at 12.

Fifty cases Japanese Lilies, &c., at 5, by Protheroe &
Morris, at at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C.

FRIDAY—

500 Cattleya Perc'ivalliana Imported and Established
Orchids, by Protheroe & Morris, at 67 & 68, Cheapside,
E.G., at 12.45.

Under this title we have re-
Orchis, ceived a specimen number of a

pubhcation, edited by Dr. Udo
Dammer, for the proposed German Orchid
Society {Monatsschrift dcr Deiitschcn Gescll-
scliaft fur Orchidccnkundi). It is a folio pub-
lication, with a coloured plate of Backhouse's
variety of Cattleya (Trianae) labiata. The
introduction is written in French and English
as well as in German, and shows that the pub-
lication is specially intended for amateurs and
novices of various countries. " As long- as the
cultivation of these plpnts," says the editor,
" is based on an empiric foundation, a sound
basis on which to build will for ever be want-
ing." Allusion is then made, by wav of illus-
tration, to the remarkable observations of
Noel Bernard, which go to show that the culti-
vation of certain Orchids cannot be satisfac-
torily carried oijt unless a certain root-fungus
co-operates with the plant in the course of its
growth. Progress can only be made by
science working hand in hand with practical
experience. The study of living jjlants is,
after all, the most important matter,
for pressed and dried flowers are only
-a poor substitute for the living reality. In-
fluenced by such considerations, (ierman

Orchid-lovers have been considering the de-
sirability of forming themselves into a socictv,
one of whose objects shall be the publication
o£ a periodical, in which consideration shall
be given both to the scientific and to the
practical side of Orchid culture. The present
part is, therefore, to be considered in the light
of an experiment, and, if it succeeds in enlist-
ing the sympathies of the German Orchidists,
the society will be formally established in May
next. In the specimen number are articles
on the Orchids of Kilimanjaro, by Mr. Vol-
kens ; New Orchids, by Mr. Schlechter ; rare
plants in the collection of Baron von Fiirstcn-
berg ; on Coryanthes maculata, by Mr. Le-
dien, with an illustration ; the cultivation of
Disas ; the growth of Orchids in apartments ;
a monthly calendar of operations, and other
articles, all in German. M. Noel Bernard's
article, to which we have already alluded, is
in French. M. Bernard shows that Orchid
seedlings are attacked by fungus spores and
threads in a very early stage of their exist-
ence, and so far from being injurious, the
fungi seem to be necessary for the full de-
velopment of the Orchid. The fungi have in
many cases been isolated and cultivated in
suitable media. Hard lumps or " sclerotia "
are seen to be formed, as well as the ordin-
ary spawn-threads (mycelium). The fungi
thus separated belong to at least three
species, for instance, those obtained from the
roots of Odontoglossum grande, Phalsenop-
sis amabilis, and Spiranthes autumnalis are
easily distinguishable one from the other.
Those procured from Cypripedium insigne,
hybrid Lselio-Cattleyas, Cymbidium Lowia-
num, and Acrides maculosum are all very
like that found in Spiranthes autumnalis. M.
Bernard concludes that all these fungi belong
to the group known as Rhizoctonia, the
species of which are known to affect various
corms, bulbs, and tubers, and to the presence
of which the Potato-scab has been lately attri-
buted.

From what we have said, it may be inferred
that the " Orchis " combines some of the fea-
tures that were characteristic of the superbly-
illustrated Reichenbachia, with others which
we are accustomed to find in our valuable
contemporary the Orchid Review, and we
trust our German friends will, w-ith their
usual thoroughness, succeed in their attempt
to enrich our Orchid literature and diffuse a
scientific knowledge of this favourite group
of plants.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — It is
now about twenty years since the first wild garden
at Kew was started. Its extent is about three
acres, one-third being a high mound with long
sloping sides. The greater part is shaded in sum-
mer by large deciduous trees. The situation is
therefore a favourable one for spring effects, bulbs
of various kinds thriving there, whilst a large,
irregular border on the outskirts affords suitable
conditions for Ferns, Cyclamens, Hellebores, Fritil-
larias, Colchicums, &c. In the grass under the
trees there are thousands of Daffodils, which at
the time the view from the north (shown in the
supplementary illustration) was obtained realised
the poet's description of " a waving sea." In the
foreground is Anemone apennina, which a few
years ago was only a small patch, and is now quite
a large "colony." Earlier in the year, on the
■.vest side, the Snowdrops were the attraction.
The south slope of the mound is covered with
Crocuses, chiefly yellow, and they make a display
which can be seen from distant parts of the gar-
den. The process of selecting the most suit-
able plants has been the only satisfactory one,

namely, putting in all kinds of things that were
likely to thrive and discarding the failures. The
only place in Kew where Snowdrops have estab-
lished themselves is in this wild garden, although
they have been tried in many other situations. The
pallidus praecox Daffodil was a failure where the
Tenby Daffodil now thrives. The greatest success
of recent years has been with Christmas Roses,
planted in the border on the west side of this wild
garden. They have succeeded so well that five
hundred more plants have been recently planted.

ir. W.

LiNNEAN Society. — The next general meeting
will be held on Thursday, May 3, 1900, at 8 p.m.
The discussion on the " Origin of Gymnosperms,"
adjourned from March 15, will be resumed by
Dr. D. H. Scott, F.R.S., Sec.L.S.

Botanical Professorship in Paris.— In

consequence of the retirement of M. Bureau
from the chair of Botany at the "Museum"
(Jiirdin des Plantes), M. Lecomte has been elected
by the Academy of Sciences to fill the vacancy.

Riding the "Black Knight." — On Easter
Monday, according to the Daily Graphic, the
' ' Black Knight ' ' was seen in the streets of Ashton-
under-Lyne. This Easter Monday apparition is
a relic of feudal times. The manor lands in the
fifteenth century were overrun by a yellow weed,
destructive of the growth of corn. To extirpate
this Sir John de Assheton instituted fines against
those tenants on whose land it was found, and
appointed his son, Ralph de Assheton, to collect
them. The tyrannical exactions of Ralph so
exasperated the tenants that they rose in revolt
and Sir Ralph was slain. The designation of
" Black Knight," it is thought, arose from the
fact that he rode a black charger, and on his
annual visitations was attired in armour. At his
death the office was abolished, but the custom was
long perpetuated in the annual ceremony of riding
the "Black Knight," a pageant of some preten-
sions, which, though still continued, has greatly
deteriorated of late years, while public interest in
it has much declined. Nowadays, ' ■ Black Knight ' '
is associated with Sweet Peas, and Mr. Strawson
knows how to extirpate the yellow weed without
Hiflicting any exactions on the tenants.

The Country Gentlemens Estate Book,

1906. — A thick octavo, compiled and edited by
Mr. William Broomhall, on behalf of the
Country Gentlemen's Association. It comprises
numerous articles on estate management, farming,
forestry, gardening, and country life generally.
Mr. Cecil Hooper contributes an article on the
valuation of Fruit-Plantations, and another on
I-and-Tenure and Rating Difiiculti€3. The con-
tents of the volume are, however, so varied that
we must content ourselves with the mere mention
of their presence and commend the vi'hole work to
the favourable consideration of those interested in
the land and its products. The geological map is
of too general a character to be of much use for
practical purposes.

The Elder. — There is a saying that when the
Elder is in bloom the summer is half over. We
trust this does not apply to the Canadian species
which we saw in full bloom in a London suburb
on Easter Sunday.

Index Filicum. — Part eight of this very useful
publication has been issued, bringing the enume-
ration up to the beginning of the graat genus,
Polypodium. Such is the confusion in the nomen-
clature, and so great the divergence of opinion as
to the limitations of genera and species of Ferns.
that a list of this kind, giving names, date, and
place of publication, together with the name of
the author, and the native country of the Fern,
has become indispensable to all interested in the
literature of the subject. The work maybe had
through Messrs, Williams & Norgate.

April 21, 1906.]

THE , GARDENERS' CURONICIE.

249

Kew. — The number of visitors to the Royal
■Gardens on Easter Monday amounted, we are
told, to 91, GOO. We are glad to learn that little
or no damage was done.

Kew Bulletin. — The volume for 1904 is
represented by a single number (dated April, 1906),
and by several appendices which were published
in advance of the main text. The part before us
contains an article on the Soap-bark tree, Quillaya
saponaria, on an India-rubber producing tree,
Eucommia ulmoides, a native of Western and Cen-
tral China, which has proved quite hardy at Kew,
and various other interesting subjects. Number .3,
for the year 1905, has also lately been issued, and
contains a botanical monograph on the genus
Kickxia, a Malayan group of rubber-producing
plants, and on Funtumia, a corresponding group,
the species of which are natives of West tropical
(\frica. The necessity of discriminating between
these species is shown by the fact that some kinds
are worthless as rubber producers, whilst amongst
others, such as Funtumia elastica, is one of the
most important sources of West African rubber.
By the publication of these and other numbers, to
which we have previously alluded, with their
several appendices, the periodical is being brought
up to date in such fashion as will permit of the
numbers being bound in proper sequence.

Official Report on Kew Gardens for
THE Year I860. — The Kew set is deficient in
Sir William J. Hooker's Report for 1800, so that
the Director would be exceedingly obliged to any
person who could make good this deficiency,
which is probably owing to a change in the
method of dating from what had previously been
in use. It would probably be dated January, 18G1.
Communications should be addressed to Mr. W.
BoTTiNG Hemsley, Keeper of the Herbarium and
Library, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

The Heart of Rameses II. — The subject
has no direct relation to horticulture, but is so
remarkable that we may be excused for referring
to it. M. LoRTET and others have had the oppor-
tunity of examining the contents of certain
Egyptian vases, and among them found the heart
of the great monarch. It was so hard that a saw
was needed to make sections of it. These sections
further prepared for microscopic examination
revealed indubitably the muscular structure of the
heart. Rameses II. is stated to have died 1258
years before the Christian era. The embahnent
an natron, resins, spices, &c., was so perfect that,
as we have said, the minute structure of the
muscle is admirably preserved. The vases and
their contents are now in the Museum of the
Louvre, and the description from which we have
taten these details is contained in the Comftcs
Reiuliis of till- Acaiciuy of Siiciiccs for .\pril 2, lOOG.

Nurserymen, Market Gardeners- and
General Hailstorm Insurance Corpora-
tion, Ltd.— The Secretary, Mr. .\. J. Monro,
informs us that the eleventh annual general meet-
ing of the shareholders of this corporation was
held at the registered offices, 41 and 42, King
Street, Covent Garden, W.C, on Friday, the 6th
inst., when Mr. Harry J. Veitch presided. A
dividend of 5 per cent, and a bonus of 24 per cent,
for the year was declared; /1, 500 was placed to
reserve fund, and ;f332 18s lOd. carried forward.
The reserves now amount to ^10,500. There were
five claims during the year, one of which amounted
to over ;fl00. The claims came from various
parts, ranging from Canterbury, Kent, to the
Orkney Isles. The investments in stocks amount
to /12,.545 14s. 7d., and freehold ground rents to
^8,429 19s. The shareholders expressed their
satisfaction at the strengtli a.»d satisfactory con-
dition of the corporation.

Portraits of Botanists. — Dr. Wittrock,
of the Stockholm Botanic Garden, has published a
second volume of portraits of eminent botanists,

from Aristotle to Mitsutaro Shirak Some of
the portraits are of large 8vo. size, whilst others
are small enough to allow of six being given or
one plate. Botanists of all nationalities are in-
cluded, and short biographical notices are given.
The arrangement is according to countries, but an
alphabetical index to the two volumes is supplied.
The original portraits, we gather, are in the
Museum of the Stockholm Botanic Garden, and,
in spite of some omissions, are of extreme value
to working botanists. Not the least interesting
are the portraits of the father, mother, brother,
son and two daughters of Linn.eus. The varied
costumes are, in their way, as noteworthy as the
delineations of the features of the distinguished
men.

The "Hurst & Son" Musical Society
AND THE Gardeners' Royal Benevolent. —
On May 3, at the Cripplegate Institute, Golden
Lane, E.G., the " Hurst & Son " Musical Society
will produce an original musical play entitled " On
Puddleton Quay," written and composed by Mr.
Edward Sherwood, lyrics by Robert Main, in
aid of the Gardeners' Royal Benevoleut Institution
and the Corn Exchange Benevolent Institution.
The performance will commence at 8 p.m. We

BBp

Fig. 101 — BUKiED insckii-ho.s in iuumk

OF BEECH.

hope that a substantial sum will be obtained for
these charities. Tickets may be obtained of the
Hon. Sec. (F. A. Washington), 152, Hounds-
ditch, London, E.

Proliferous Stocks. — Mr. Dicks kindly
sends us a specimen of a double-flowered Brompton
Stock in wliich not only are the petals increased in
number but the central axis of the flower is pro-
longed into a small shoot bearing subsidiary leaves
and flowers. The pistil is absent, being replaced
by the supplementary shoot. Such a condition of
" median floral prolification " is not uncommon in
Wallflowers and other Cruciferous plants, and is
the result of the resumption of growth after it had
been checked in the ordinary course.

Prunus Pissardi. — The Rev. David R.
Williamson writes to us as follows on April 15: —
" Since writing the article which appears on p. 225
of the Gardeners' Chroniele I have been much inter-
ested to learn from a communication of my friend .
Mr. S. Arnott, of Dumfries, that Prunus Pissardi
has fruited in Scotland, at St. Mary's Isle, in Kirk-
cudbrightshire. This, I think, must be an event
sufliciently rare in our Scottish climate judging
from my own experience of this Oriental tree. It
fruits not uncommonlv near London."

BURIED LETTERS IN TRUNK
OF BEECH TREE.

The illustration at fig. 101 shows a portion of
the trunk of a large Beech tree, which was split
for firewood, and which was afterwards presented
to the museum of the Roj-al College of Surgeons,
in 1903. At some time the bark had been cut
away in the form of the letters shown, and over
the denuded surface the wood callus has grown,
the yearly additions of wood being afterwards
formed continuously over the trunk. The mark-
ings in the wood appear to be due to the necrosis
of a thin layer of the wood once exposed, the
subsequent cleavage having taken place through
this so as to give rise on one piece to a reverse of
the letters cut. The wood immediately around
that dead is of a deep brown colour. In the
middle of the " A " the original bark has been left ;
this has been afterwards covered over and buried
beneath the growth of callus from the surrounding
cambium. The letters lay 6i inches below the
surface.

SOME YELLOW-FLOWERED
SAXIFRAGAS.

Among the members of the genus Saxiiraga
that flower from early January onwards for the
period of three months or more, yellow-flowered
varieties are among the most interesting, and,
in not a few instances, the most valuable as
' garden plants. The lover of choice and rare
" Alpines " never tires of these dainty gems,
some of which are e.xceedingly slow of growth
and require years before attaining a goodly size.
Thus a specimen of S. aretioides primulina
which I exhibited at the Drill Hall, Westmin-
ster, some years since, was the result of sixteen
years' continuous growth. It was growing in a
6-inch pot, and carried between eighty and
ninety flowers, each but 2 inches high. Yet it
was worth waiting for, and its peer will take
many years to produce. Though easy of culti-
vation when carefully \reated, it not infre-
quently happens that fungus will destroy some
of these rare plants before the cultivator is aware
of its presence. Such a growth was responsible
for the loss of the unique example referred to
above. S. caesia, a very beautiful white-flow-
ered specie.i, is frequently attacked by thete in-
sidious fungi, and it usually happens that the
plants become a prey to such diseases when
wintered in badly-ventilated frames. To ensure
perfect health, top ventilation alone is by no
means sufficient. Years ago, when in charge
of a famous collection of Alpine plants, I found
that many of them appeared far from content
with their treatment in the matter of ventilation,
even though the lights were constantly raised
both at the back and the front, some 5 inches
above the wall plate of the frame. As a result
of this experience I had constructed what I still
believe to be the ideal frame for these plants,
one in which the walls both back and front were
freely pigeon-holed, in addition to the lights
being raised overhead as before. This arrange,
ment admitted abundance of air among the
plants, and it was a pleasure to view the silvery
Saxifraga growing in these conditions, the en-
crusted character of the plants being developed
to a marked degree. The plants were simply
placed in the frame and the pots were never
plunged. The late Mr. James Atkins, of Pains-
wick, plunged his choice plants in chipp^ngs
from magnesian limestone, from which all the
fine particles had been eliminated. The plants
were wintered in a series of small span-roofed
frames, each of which was open at either end,
and with other means of ventilation provided at
the top. In this garden, high up in the C")ts-
wolds, the plants wintered well.

As a potting medium I employ light, not
heavy, loam, to which abundance of sharp grit

250

TH-E GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, 1906.

or sand is added, tor:ether with a little old
mortar or soft-brick brolsen to powder. During
a somewhat long experience, I have experi-
mented much with soils and with admixtures
of soils; I find disastrous results follow the
addition of burnt ash from the garden rubbish
tires. Though employed quite sparingly— and

down at 2 or 3 inches apart. The blossoms are
coloured primrose %>ellow, and are produced in ,i
crowded head on peduncles 2-3 inches high. S.
apiculata was first grown under the name of S.
luteo-purpurea, and many years back the Royal
Horticultural Society gave it a First Class Cer-
tificate under that name.

Fig. 102.— saxifraga boydii as cultivated by mr. jenkins.

at the time I may have thought even judiciously
—it was in the nature of poison to the roots,
and some plants even perished outright. I soon
discovered that something was wrong, and the
plants were shalien out and washed fr«e from the
soil, when I found many root fibres quite dead.
Charcoal and leaf soil should be used sparingly,
while the latter is best discarded altogether,
unless of first quality and made from Oak or
Beech leaves. Frequently I have employed with
advantage a little very old, finely-sifted manure,
not only in the soil for potting, but in that
used for top-dressing or rubbing into the crowns
in early winter. Perfect drainage is essential,
and, given this, pots of a larger size than are
usually employed are a decided advantage. To
the foregoing comments on the general cultiva-
tion of the plants I have but to emphasise the
necessity for firmness in potting, while rare
kinds should be wedged between stones, to en-
sure fixing the tufts in position.

Varieties.

The following are the more important of yel-
low-flowered Sasifragas : —

S. apiculata (see Fig. 103).— This is on©
of the most valuable of winter or early-
spring flowering varieties, not merely by
reason of the abundance of its blossoms, but
equally because of the lengthened season of its
flowering. In very mild winters the earliest
blossoms are expanding in December, and
though again and again repelled by frost, it will
use every endeavour to succeed, and will still
be found crowded with blossoms in March and
April. This is one of the most easy Saxifragas
to cultivate, and in not a few gardens will suc-
ceed perfectly well if planted on the level
ground. In localities where chalk abounds, the
tufts of growths perish in their centres from ex-
treme summer dryness, and it will be found on
examination that these portions are quite lifted
out of the soil The remedy in such circum-
stances is to plant low down in partial shade
and to practise frequent division. There is no
reason why gardens should not contain yard-
wide patches of this beautiful plant, all that is
necessary .being to divide the plants freely in
early spring and to plant the spring rosettes low

S. a. Mayli is considered as synonymous
with the above species by the Kew authorities,
but it differs in that it always flowers at a later
season — it rarely, if ever, flowers in mid-winter,
and in its somewhat better shaped and more

ing period is during April and May. As a deco.
rative subject the type is far out-distanced by
S. a. primulina, a very rare form with rich yel-
low blossoms that measure half-an-inch across.
This exquisite form was raised at Painswick by
the late Mr. J. Atkins, and is to-day one of the-
most rare of the yellow-flowered Saxifragas. It
is worthy of note that a large proportion of the
root fibres of those diminutive kinds will in all
healthy specimens be found at the bottom of
the pot, sure indication of their preference for
the cooling influence of rock or stone. Summer
moisture in plenty, in partial imitation of the
abundant watering from the melting snow of
the mountains, must not be overlooked as part
of their requirements.

S. Boydii x (see Fig. 102).— This lovely hybrid
was raised from S. aretioides x S. Bnrseriana,
the latter being, I presume, the pollen parent.
It is without doubt the prince of yellow-flowered
Saxifragas. The plant, by no means new, is-
still rare, and some growers find much difficulty
in cultivating it. Should the raiser of the plant
read these notes, I would like him to inform me
whether the pollen employed in effecting the
cross was all taken from one plant. If Mr.
Boyd is unable to supply this information, could
he enlighten us as to whether the original stock
was raised from one seedling only or from mor&
than one? I ask the question because I have
seen one form of S. Boydii quite distinct in
leaf growth from another more commonly known
and grown. The flowers of S. Boydii are as
large as a sixpence, and are lemon-yellow in-
colour. The strongest stems seen in the picture
had four flowers each. A few only had five.
S. Elisabeths x . — A hybrid having S. sancta and
S. Burseriana for its parents. A free and good

X
Fig. 103. — SAXIFRAGA apicul.vta; SYN. LUTEO-PURPUREA. Hort.

deeply coloured flowers. For garden purposes
the two plants are widely distinct.

S. aretioides. — A diminutive species from the
Pyrenees, with greenish-yellow coloured flowers
on peduncles an inch high. Its leaves form
dense tufts of silvery rosettes, from which the
leafy glandular peduncles spring. The flower-

grower, intermediate between the parents, and
possessing a sturdy and free flowering habit, in
which the first-named parent is greatly in evi-
dence. I know of no yellow-flowered Saxifraga
presenting such a mass of blossoms as this
variety. The colour is a shade deeper than that
seen in S. apiculata.

April 21, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

251

S. Ferdinandi Coburghi. — A very rare species
from Macedonia, with golden-yellow flowers of
great beauty. The peduncles are from 1-2 inches
high, somewhat forked, and bearing from two to
four flowers each. The individual rosettes of
leaves may be compared to a loose-growing plant
of C. caesia, the close, intricate character of the
latter not being found in the above-named
species. The plant appears likely to prove easy
of cultivation. The flowering period is during
March and early April. The pronounced silvery
character is a marked feature of the plant.

S. juni peri folia. — The yellow-coloured petals
are of small size, and are scarcely more con-
spicuous than the anthers. The rosettes of dark
green leaves are acutely pointed, and are spiny
to the touch. An early and very shy bloomer
of quite easy cultivation in ordinary soil. Native
of the Caucasus.

S. Kolschyi. — A free growing species from
Asia Minor, with large and exceedingly pale
yellow coloured blossoms. A good grower in
deep, gritty loam.

.5'. luteo-viridis. — A very rare species from
Transylvania, the greenish-yellow petals fully
justifying the specific name. The leafy pedun-
cles are usuallv three-flowered, the petals being
bluntly ovate, and slightly dentate, ft succeeds
best in very gritty loam when wedged between
pieces of sandstone. The true plant is but
rarely seen in cultivation. The flowering period
is early April.

S. sancta. — A well-known species from Mace.
donia.,TThe plant forms a perfect carpet of
green on the soil. The stems, 1 inch or more
high, are many flowered, the petals being small,
ovate, and of a rich yellow colour, with the
golden anthers making quite a display during
March and April. The plant is easy of culti-
vation, and may be increased to any extent by
division. It grows freely in cool and shady
positions.

S. aspcra, S. Hirculus, with its variety major,
and the pretty S. cymbalaria are other species
with varying shades of yellow-coloured blos-
some all worthy of note in passing. E. H.
Jenkins, Hampton Hill.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Chrysanthemum "W. J. Crossley." —
This new \ariety was the result of my crossing
Mafeking Hero with the pollen of Mrs. F. W.
Vallis, and those who are growing it may be
reminded that it is later in forming its crown bud
than Mafeking Hero and should be stopped about
April 10 or as soon as possible. Confine each
plant to two shoots and secure the next flower-bud
which appears. Arthur Calderbank.

The WiNTER-FLowERrNG Carnation So-
ciety.— Respecting the proposed new Carnation
Society, may I venture to suggest that they style
themselves the Perpetual-Flowering Carnation
Society, as the term Winter-flowering is not com-
prehensive enough, and does not do the plant
justice. There is no season in which this particular
section of Carnation will not flower. The plants
cease to flower only when they are exhausted.
Those who wish to substitute this section for the
border varieties can easily do so by cultivating
the plants inside and out of doors, and the returns
from them will be far greater than those obtained
from border varieties. They are admittedly not
quite so hardy as the border varieties. R. C.
Sanders, Halton Gardens, Tring.

Seeding of Lilium canoidum. — With refer-
ence to the note on p. 233, I have fertilized
flowers of this Lily e\ery year for many years,
without ever getting a seed, or even inducing the
capsules to swell. In my present garden, where
Lilium candidum does extremely well in almost
any situation, is absolutely free from disease, and
flowers freely every year, I had renewed hopes.
In 1903, several capsules swelled more or less, but
contained no seed. In 1901 I had several pods of

very doubtfully fertile seed, and one with about
6 to 10 plump seeds, one of which germinated
and grew for about nine months, and then suc-
cumbed, apparently to frost. In 1905, two hand-
fertilized flowers produced large capsules con-
taining about 100 seeds, and to my surprise some
10 or 12 other flowers on various plants about the
garden set pods of fertile seed, though not so
much nor such good seed as the hand-fertilized
flowers. All these were sown last December, and
some are now germinating. No other Lilies were
out at the same time ; in fact, I can grow very few-
other Lilies here, being on a shallow, hungry,
chalky soil. There is, therefore, in my case no
question of Lilium candidum needing to be fer-
tilized by L. testaceum before it will set seed.
From the fact of Mr. Henry also obtaining seed in
1905 it seems, either as if there were some very
general circumstances, other than climate or soil,
favourable to seed production in 1905, or else that
it is a question of the age of the stock. Possibly
it is an analogous case to that of Anemone japo-
nica, which for years was nes'er known to set a
single seed, and I am hopeful that if I succeed in
raising these seedlings they will prove to be as
free seeders, comparatively, as are Anemone Lord
Ardilaun and its descendants. A. J. Bliss, Or-
pington .

Plant Distribution of the Royal Horti-
cultural Society. — .\propos of tlie remarks
on p. '218, a box of plants has just been received
by a Fellow from Wisley. It contained five scraps,
but not one of them of the species selected and
notified in List No. 1 or in the supplementary list.
Surely the society need not go to the expense of
printing a list of plants for distribution, and in-
creasing the farce by sending out things that are
not wanted. Who can be responsible for this
child's play? M. A. W.

Daffodils in the Open Air, Season 1906.
— It will no doubt be useful to many of your
readers to learn from this southern climate of ours
something of the forwardness of the Daffodil
bloom during the past month or two. I give the
order in perfect rotation as they were gathered.
Some of the sorts are not yet in quantity ; when
they become plentiful, the market men will reap the
benefit. After all, a small early bloom coming in
before Christmas under gentle forcing is more
valuable from the trade point than the immense
flowers that carry on the season : (1) Cervantes,
perianth and trumpet pale yellow ; (2) North Star,
perianth and trumpet yellow ; (3) Alpha, a small
neat bicolor with dark green foliage. All in
flower first week in February. (4) Earliana, a
lovely bloom, but not plentiful ; (5) Tuscan Bi-
color, like a small Horsfieldi, very early; (6)
Flossie, an improved Tenby variety ; (7 and 8) Crown
of Wealth and Winter Cheer, both of the spurius
class, middle of February, when plentiful, this
will be of great value ; (9) Golden Spur, a well-
known fine market sort ; (10) Irish Guards, a tall,
vigorous grower, very scarce ; (11) Claddagh, for
pots this is very exquisite ; (12) Buttercup, has
small, stiff, erect bloom. Then the early variety
of Poets' Narcissus, viz., praecox grandiflora,
is of great value. It is quite over now out of
doors, but was in flowerin early March in asheltered
spot ; under glass it comes in before Christmas, and
is large and fine for cutting. Wm. Baylor Hartland,
S.W. Cairn, Cork. April 1, 1906.

Aspidistra Seedlings. — I enclose a seed-
ling of Aspidistra found self-sown in the midst of
an old plant, where by some means or other two
flowers evidently were fertilised, an uncommon
occurrence. The little plants I found in two
groups of seven each when re-potting the old one,
and although none is more forward than the
enclosed, several show already a good variegation,
while the majority of them are green. As attempts
to fertilise the flowers of Aspidistras generally re-
sult in failure, I thought the above fact w-orthy of
note. How came these two (or more) flowers to
be fertilised, I wonder? H. Schneider.

Independent Boiler. — I have read with
much interest Mr. Divers' letter in the Gardeners'
Chronicle for March 24. I suppose Mr. Divers has
the sections of his boilers left quite open, but I
would strongly recommend all gardeners using
any of these independent boilers to have them
well covered in with asbestos. We have recently
had a Mona boiler (8 sections) put in here, and we
tried it a few days as it was, but after it was
covered in it made quite 10 per cent, difference to
the heating power. There was also another inde-
pendent boiler here which I found was not really
equal to what was required of it, but we had a

thick covering put on this also, ailJ it has made a
vast difference. I think these boilers are a great
improvement on all the old-fashioned makes, ex-
cept the " Trentham," which is quite equal to any
independent boiler. Mr. Divers is quite right in
his suggestion that gardeners should not be content
with what their fathers had and did providing it is
possible for them to do better. A head gardener
ought always to be on the look-out for improve-
ments, no matter whether he is a young or old
man. I know of an instance where some men
after beating carpets left the rope hanging in the
tree at night ; next morning it was found that a
cow had hanged itself with the rope. The men
said it was not their fault, because it always had
been left there ! A.E. Usher, Gardener to Sir Randal)
J. Baker, Bart., Ranston Gardens, Blandford, Dorset.
Rhododendron mundulum. — I shall be glad
if any reader of the Gardeners'' Chronicle can
give me any information about Rhododendron
mundulum, which appears to be allied to K.
Nobleanum, and is one of the earliest bloomers
among the hardy Rhododendrons, with the ex-
ception of R. praecox and R. dahuricum. My
attention was first drawn to this by Mrs. Myers,
of Dunningwell, Millom, Carnforth, who, in
telling me of her early flowers mentioned
Rhododendron mundulum as blooming early in
all mild winters. As an admirer of early
flowers I was anxious to procure this myself,
and I could not discover the name anywhere,
until Mrs. Myers kindly sent me the name of a
North of England nurseryman who catalogues
it. It is a good hybrid, to all appearance, with
large flowers which open slightly tinted with
blush but become pure white. The foliage
would indicate that it comes from a parentage
resembling that of Nobleanum. It appears to
be a free bloomer, and is perfectly hardy with
me. We are later here than in the Carnforth
district, which, as many know, has a greater
rainfall, and is closer to the sea. S. Arnott,
Sunny me ad, Dumfries.

Natural Selection. — Referring to the Rev.
Prof. Henslow's reply to my criticisms (see p. 220)
I should like to be permitted to point out that I
have not challenged the position he takes up, but
merely the definite statements upon which he bases
it, utilizing the very tangible evidence which my
Fern experiences afford. He meets this mainly by
reiterating the assertions which I challenge in
other words, thus; " But as a matter of fact (the
italics are mine) adaptive variations (i.e., favour-
able ones) arise without the presence of any
inadaptive (i.e., unfavourable ones) at all."
Repetition is no argument in itself, and it is obvious
that if my statement, based on actual demonstrable
evidence, be true, plants vary in both ways. He
goes on to say : " Let a Polypody produce as many
spores as you like, Mr. Druery cultivates them ;
there is therefore nothing ' injurious ' or inadap-
tive in their nature." This again is no argument
against my assertion that when spores of variable
species, i.e., such spores as these, are sown, they
are apt to vary secondarily both advantageously
and disadvantageously, since when dwarfed varia-
tions arise among robuster ones, i.e., "inadaptive"
and "adapted" variations, the former varieties
will perish unless removed. In connection with
this Prof. Henslow asserts that "if these weak
seedlings were removed they would grow all
right," which, apart from the fact that I did not
speak of "weak" seedlings at all, is absolutely
wrong if he means that dwarf varieties would
assume full size growth by such removal ; it would
be just as logical to assert that if General Tom
Thumb had been well fed he would have grown
to full size ; such varieties are dwarf by constitution
and not by environment merely, and if under
natural conditions they originated among robust
plants, it is practically certain they would speedily
perish. If such a variation as described is not
injurious, inadaptive or unfavourable, I should like
to know what is. Furthermore in this connection
Prof. Henslow states that "what Mr. Druery
describes as 'variations' are nothing more than
'individual differences' due to semi-starvation."
This again finds a contradiction in the facts, as
dwarfed and depauperate, i.e., varietal forms
of diminished foliage area, are indubitably
not due to starvation at all and retain their
peculiarities under the most favourable conditions
of culture. As regards Ferns differing from other
plants in their capacity for showing specific char-
icters in the infant stage, I doubt this very much,
and may instance the fact that at the Scientific
Committee recently pans of young seedlings' "tere
exhibited to illustrate the Mendelian theory-, and

252

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, 1906.

the varietal characters were clearly distinguishable
in the infant stage. Prof. Henslow relers to a
struggle for existence between grass and Ranun-
culus repens, and apparently imputes to me the
idea that the smothermg of the grass implies injuri-
ous structures therein. This however is entirely
outside the question, which is one of " injurious "
variations of a single species and not of advan-
tageous or disadvantageous differences between
different genera, another matter entirely. Finally,
he challenges me in a footnote to name any species
which has been ousted by its offspring (varietal, I
assume), and for this I refer him to the Gardeners'
Chromelc of February 9, 1884, describing a variety
of Asplenium adiantum nigrum found by the writer
(Asp. ad. n. caudifolium) which had e%'idently
ousted the normal form over a large area of stone
dyke on Dartmoor, a fact I have since considered
;o be due to its fronds being somewhat short and
.'ery numerous and closely adpressed to the wall,
io that practically no spores could germinate and
mature within the area it covered, while the nor-
mal form would naturally be severely handicapped
as these adpressed fronds invaded its crowns. In
any case, theory or no theory, the normal form,
plentiful enough at both ends of the dyke, was not
represented by a single plant among the hundreds
of the variety. 1 had this case in my mind when
I wrote. Finally, I opine that attacks upon Dar-
win's theories are little likely to be effective when
based upon merely dogmatic assertions such as
those in question, the premises of which are con-
troverted by such facts as I have endeavoured to
make plain. Darwin's own work is entirely free
from this kind of thing. I avail myself of this op-
portunity to correct a misprint in my previous note,
28th line from the end, where " [ro.ects i: from
the insects" should read "protects it from the
outset," insects not affecting the point in question.
Chas. T. Drmry. V.M.H., F.L.S.

SOCIETXES.

KOYAL HORTICULTURAL.

April 17. — The display of plants and flowers
at the meeting held on this date was a brilliant
and typical spring flower show. There were
Anemones, Daftodils, Rhododendrons, Prim-
roses, Polyanthuses, and other early flowering
subjects from the open in plenty, and the meet-
ing being also the occasion of the National
Auricula and Primula Society's annual e.xhi-
bition, it was supplemented by the varied and
numerous exhibits _staged under this latter
society's auspices. But in addition to garden
flowers, there were great banks of Orchids,
clumps of forced fiov.'ering plants, some won-
derful Ilippeastrums, notably one large ex-
hibit from Mrs. Bukns, the flowers of which
were all of white forms ; a beautiful group of
Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations from the
gardens of Mr. Leopold de Rothschild ; and
last, but not least, a faithful representation
of a large rock garden by Messrs. W. Cutbush
& Son. This last-named exhibit was of
Gargantuan proportions, and was probably the
largest exhibit of the kind attempted. It re-
ceived a Gold Medal. Major Holford's beau-
tiful display of Hippeastrums also received
this high award, and, in addition to the usual
grants of medals, each of the respective Com-
mittees gave awards to novelties, the Orchid
Committee granting five First-class Certifi-
cates, two Awards of Merit, and one Botani-
cal Certificate ; the Floral Committee four
Awards of Merit ; the Narcissus Committee
three Awards of Merit ; and the Fruit and
Vegetable Committee, Awards of Merit to two
new Broccolis after trial at Wisley. This
formed practically the whole business transacted
by this last-named Committee. The resources
of the building were greatly taxed to accommo-
date the various displays, both the annexes be-
ing brought into requisition for staging groups.
In the afternoon 44 new Fellows were added
to the roll of the society, and a lecture was de-
livered by Mr. F. En-ock, F.L.S., on "Colour
Photography in Horticulture," the remarks
being illustrated by a series of beautiful lan-
tern slides.

Floral Committee.

Present: Wm. Marshall, Ksq. (in the chair),
and Messrs. Chas. T. Druery, John Green, Geo.
Nicholson, T. W. Turner, C. J. Salter, J- F-
Mcl.eod, C. R. Fielder, John Jennings, R. C.

Rymald Nevill, Chas. Jefferies, W. Bain, Chas.
E. Pearson, Ed. Mawley, Herbert J. Cutbush,
Chas. Dixon, Chas. E. Shea, W. P. Thomson,
E. 11. Jenkins, Geo. Paul, Wm. Cuthbertson,
and F. Page Roberts.

Major G. L. Holford, C.I.E., C.V.O., Tet-
bury (gr. Mr. Alexander), staged a grand batch
of Hippeastrums (Amaryllis). The plants
were nicely arranged among a setting of Ferns
and Asparagus Sprengeri, some of the latter
being allowed to trail along the front. We
have no space to name each variety, and al-
though it is hard to discriminate among a col-
lection of such merit, we may select as the
choicer King Arthur, a rich scarlet variety
with a darker throat, very handsome ; The
Doge, a magnificent crimson flower ; Viking, of
the tessellated type, with red striping and
splashing on a white ground ; Chimborazo, a
strong growing variety with rich scarlet, almost
crimson flowers ; Norah, a striped variety,
strong in habit, and carrying four fine flowers ;
Laus Veneris, rich scarlet colour ; and Csesar, a
dark red flower, the shade of colouring appear-
ing unique compared with the remaining varie-
ties. A feature of the plants was their remark-
able vigour. (Gold Medal.)

Not less meritorious, and certainly more re-
markable, were the plants of Hippeastrums
staged by Mr. C. R. Fielder (gr. to Mrs. W. H.
Burns, North Mymms Park, Hatfield, Herts).
The group consisted entirely of white seedlings,
of which there were about 50 plants Perha]3s
equally remarkable as the strain was the small
period that had elapsed between the times
of sowing the seed and flowering, for this was
but one year and nine months. An older plant,
and one that had flowered before, was shown
to demonstrate the fact of the strain having be-
come fixed. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate, Mid-
dlesex, exhibited a brilliant collection of forced
flowering plants and shrubs. A number of
ornamental Maples interspersed among the
group furnished suitable greenery. The usual
subjects were included — Staphylea colchica,
Viburnum plicatum, Weigelas, including the
beautiful variety Eva Rathke, Cytisus prjEcox
I.ilacs, Azaleas, etc. The Azaleas furnished a
display in themselves, so well were they shown,
two prominent plants being a couple of speci-
mens of A. J. C. van Thol, the flowers of which
are of a peculiar shade of red. (Silver Gilt
Flora Medal.)

A group that attracted much attention was the
one staged by Messrs. Cutbush i\: Son, High-
gate, London, N. It represented a portion of a
rock garden, and so admirable was the concep-
tion and design that one could easily imagine
the exhibit to be a portion of an established
rockery. The design was that of a prominent
central portion with two bays, one at either end,
the one representing a bog and water garden,
the other a nook lor Ferns and shade-loving
plants. The bog and water garden was a
skilful piece of work, and the juxtaposition of
the plants perfect. The exhibit towered high,
and was " topped " with taller growing shrubs.
Bamboos, Roses, etc., and two huge plants of
Magnolia Soulangeana were worked in at points
of vantage. These were plants 15 or more feet
in height, but appeared in due proportion to
the exhibit, which furnishes a criterion of the
magnitude of the display. We have no space
to mention all the hundreds of flowers in-
cluded in the exhibit, but we may single out
and beautiful batch of Cypripediums spectabile
and pubescens, Gunnera scabra nicely in flower,
the wealth of Azaleas and Rhododendrons, and
the clumps of Sarracenias and Darlingtonias.
Messrs. Cutbush exhibited in another part of
the Hall two baskets of the beautiful Rose Mrs.
F. W. Flight, the plants being clothed with
their heavy trusses of flowers to the ground
level. (Gold Medal.)

Mr. H. B. Mav, Dyson's Lane Nurseries,
Upper lidmonton, again displayed a batch of
the pretty Polyantha Rose Mad. Levavasseur.
In addition to the Roses were plants of many
of the best varieties of Zonal Pelargoniums, a
batch of Flydrangea Thos. Hogg, and a stand
of Pansy flowers. Ferns interspersed among
the group and a back ground of Astilbe (Spiraea)
japonica finished the display. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., Nurserymen,
Worcester, staged a miscellaneous collection of

greenhouse plants in flower, prominent among
which was a number of Clematis plants, for
which this firm is reputed. Other subjects in-
cluded were Magnolias, Genistas, Daphne, a
batch of Phyllocactus, and several well-grown
plants of Phlebodium Smithianum. (Bronze
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
had Zonal Pelargoniums similar to those dis-
played by them at previous meetings this sea-
son. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Paul ..^ Son, Cheshunt, N., showed
several interesting plants. They had a plant
of the true Deutzia scabra, with neat little
trusses of white, star-shaped flowers, each with
a pleasing yellow eye glistening with nectar.
The filaments of the stamens are flattened,
forming a ring round the gynoecium. Bryanthus
erecta was also shown, a remarkable bigeneric
hybrid. Rhododendrons, several forms of orna-
mental Almond, coloured foliage plants.
Peaches, and a fruiting plant of Eriobotrya
japonica, for which a Cultural Commendation
was awarded, all found a place in the group.
Mr. S. Mortimer, Kowledge, Farnham, Sur-
rey, in addition to a charming display of Car-
nations, staged some coloured I'rimroses and
Polyanthus, and spikes of the new white Stock
"All the Year Round." (Silver Flora Medal.)
From the gardens of Mr. Leopold de Roth-
schild, Gunnersbury House, Acton (gr. Mr. Jen-
nings), came a beautiful display of .Souvenir de
la Malmaison Carnations of the variety Prin-
cess of Wales. The plants were splendid speci-
mens, with flowers 6 inches across, and strong,
robust growths, the numerous buds seen indi-
cating a wealth of flowers to follow. (Silver
L^ilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, N.B.,
showed stands of Pansies and Violas, and
several vases of Giant French Anemones.
Among the Violas was a new variety named
Mary Burnie. This has very large flowers of a
primrose yellow colour, just tipped with a nar-
row band" of violet. Other good varieties are
Dr. McFarlane, Efliie, Wm. Lockwood, and
Maggie Currie. Of the Pansies we may select
Niel McKay, Geo. Bulloch, Miss Niel, and
James Johnstone. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
iMifield, London, N., staged a batch of very
fine ("arnations. Adjoining was a mixed group
of flowering plants— Polygala dalmaisiana,
l-:rica candidissima, Dimorphotheca Ecklonis,
Roses, &c.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, displayed a group of small Clematis
plants in flower similar tq those exhibited by
him at the last meeting. (Silver Flora Medal.)
Mr. W. Wall.\ce, Eaton Bray, showed a new
H. T. Rose named Edith D'Ombrain. The
colour of the flowers is creamy white, and the
growth is vigorous.

Sir F. T. Tress Barrv, Bart., St. Leonard's
Hill, Windsor, Berks Igr. Mr. Robert Brown),
displayed a large number of vases containing
Camellias from the open. The selection ot
varieties was comprehensive, all the best kinds
of this old favourite flower being represented,
the quality of the blooms being an index of
the mildness of the late winter.

Sir Edmund Loder, Bart., Leonardslee, Sus-
sex (gr. Mr. W. A. Cook), showed a wealth of
flowers from the open garden. At the back-
ground was a nice display of Daffodils, while
numerous other subjects such as Ericas, Primu-
las, Camellias, Magnolias, Rhododendrons, etc.,
occupied much table room. The Rhododen-
drons were very good examples, especially a
'■ head " of R. Av.cklandi.

F. D. GonMAN, Esq., South Lodge, Horsham
(gr. Mr. Moody), exhibited some fine inflores-
cences of Himalayan Rhododendrons. Especi-
ally good were the examples of R. argenteuni
"grande," R. Aucklandi hybrida (rose colour),
and the Luscombe's hybrid (the result of R.
Luscombei X Thomsonil.

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, exhibited a batch of the flori-
ferous Xanthoceras sorbifolia, blue and rose-
coloured Hydrangeas, and a number of well-
grown plants of Streptosolen Jamesoni. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Wji. Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, staged a number of interesting foliage
plants, principally stove plants. We noticed
a variegated form of Asparagus Sprengeri. The

Ai'UiL 21, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

253

delicate new leaves of Davidsonia pruriens were
rcmarkablv handsome, and the manner of their
unfolding' graceful. Tillandsia Zahnii was
shown in flower.

Messrs. Gilbert & Son, Dyke, Bourne, Lin-
colnshire, had a mixed group of spring flowers —
Anemones, Daffodils, Tulips, and several varie-
ties of Fritillaria imperialis. The beautiful
double scarlet Anemone King of the Scarlets
was shown in fine form. Another good variety
is Queen of the Koses. This is also a double
flower, but it is of a lighter colour.

Mr. iN. Lowis, The Perennial Nurseries,
Leversdown, Uridgwater, showed a batch of
Anemones in almost every conceivable colour,
tastefully arranged in metal epergnes and Bam-
boo stands. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. R. W.4LLACE & Co., Colchester, set
up a stand of Alpine flowers, among which were
many rarities and novelties. Caltha polypetala
(see Awards) was prominent. Tulipa sylvestris
major has pleasing, pointed flowers of a shade of
yellow colour. The beautiful C.entiana verna
was in fine form. Fritillaria obliqua has dark,
almost black flowers and curiously twisted
leaves.

A pan of the pretty ScTiizocodon soldanel-
loides, beautifully flowering, was shown by
Messrs. T. S, Ware, Ltd., Ware's Nursery,
Feltham,

Mr. C. Reuthe, Hardy Plant Nursery, Kes-
ton, Kent, in addition to a goodly display of
Daffodils, had many rare and choice Alpine
plants and several inflorescences of Rhododen-
drons. R. campylocarpum is almost unique :n
colour, the small heads of yellow "bells" are
pleasing. Erythroniums, Fritillarias, hardy Or-
chids, Saxifragas, and similar plants completed
the display. A pan of the double-flowered Cal-
tha palustris was flowering nicely in this group.

Messrs. John Peed iV Sun, West Norwood,
London, S.E., exhibited Alpine and rock gar-
den plants, also a number of vases of Daffo-
dils.

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutsford,
Cheshire, staged a small group of Alpines.
(Bronze Flora Medal.)

Mr. H. C. PuLHAM, Elsenham, Essex, also
displayed a small collection of these season-
able flowers.

Mr. Amos Perry, Winchmore Hill and En-
field Chase, Middlesex, had some neat little
plants of Phlox canadensis, " Perry's variety,"
also vases of Erythronium.

Mr. A. R. Upton, Guildford Hardy Plant
Nursery, Millmead, Guildford, had many pans
of Alpine plants — Irises, Primulas, Phlox
canadensis, 'Viola Mumybana, with flowers like
a giant Violet, Andosace coronopifolia, Ribes
alpinum pumilum aureum, a pleasing little
shrub for the rock garden, etc.

Messrs. J. Cheal & .Sons, Crawley, staged
boxes of Alpine plants set off by small Conifers
at the background.

The Hon. Justice Swinfen Eadv, Oatlands
Lodge, Weybridge (gr. Mr. Jas. Lock) displaj'ed
several plants of Clarkia pulchella, var. "' Car-
nation flaked pink." The strain is a desirable
one, the flowers being large and of the colour
indicated by the varietal name, the flakings
being found on the edges of the petals.

Mr. Chas. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough,
staged a well-grown specimen of Ochna multi-
flora, whose curious red fruits form a brilliant
and attractive feature, and are superficially not
unlike the seed capsules of Euonymus euro-
poeus. Sprays of Ceonothus rigidus crowned
with flowers were also staged by Mr. Turner.

Awards of Merit.

Saxifraga oppositifolia var. coccinea. — .\ variety
having flowers of a richer shade of purple than
the type. Shown in a small pan by Messrs. J.
Backhouse & Son, York.

Rhoiimlcndion •'Gills' Triumph." — .V variety of
exceptional beauty, the colour being of bright rose
red. The inflorescence are of a medium size, and
the bells have much the form of R. X Kewense.
The parents are Aucklandi x Thomsoni. Raised
by Mr. Gill. Tremough Gardens. Cornwall.

Caltha polypetala. — A plant that may be likened
to a glorified Marsh Marigold ; indeed, we should
not be surprised it it proves to be a geographical
form of the common C. palustris. The flowers,
however, are much superior m size and richness of
colouring to those of our native plant, and the
plant is more robust in all its parts. The leaves
are cordate, and over a foot in diameter. The

strong flowers stalks develop an umbel of five or
more flowers each on pedicels 6 inches or more
long. It should prove an acquisition for the bog
and water garden. Shown by Messrs. R. Wallace
& Co. and Sir Ed.mcnd Loder.

Mcrtensia primuloidcs. — A pretty little .Alpine plant
native of the Western Himalayas. The habit is
dwarf with flower stalks 6 inches or more in
height, bearing a cyme of small Primula-like
flov/ers of a deep shade of violet colour. The
plant is scabrous on all its parts. The leaves are
petiolate and spatulate in shape. Shown by
Messrs. W. Cuteush & Sons.

Narcissus Committee.

Present: H. ii. May, Esq. (chairman), and
Messrs. W. Poupart, Walter T. Ware, W. A.
Milner, Chas. J. Oigby, R. W'. Wallace, Miss E.
Willmott, W. W. Foster, Rev. S. E. Bourne, E.
A. Bowles, P. D. Williams, R. Sydenham, A.
Kingsmill, J. T. Bennett Poe, W. !•'. M. Cope-
land, J. Pope, Alex. M. Wilson, P. R. Barr,
Fanny W. Currey, J. D. Pearson, Jan de Graaff,
G. Reuthe, G. W. Leak, and C. H. Curtis (hon.
sec).

The displays were exceptionally good, and the
exhibitors included all the more prominent
growers and specialists of the genus Narcissus.

The collection obtaining the premier prize of
a Silver Cup offered by Messrs. Barr and Son,
Covent Garden, was staged by Mr. G. P. Hay-
DO.N, Canterbury, whose group was crowded
with good things, and contained not a few
novelties. One rich yellow, self-coloured Ajax
named Rejected Addresses is of striking appear-
ance. Weardale Perfection, Mrs. Morland
Crosfield, Mrs. J. B. M. Camm, King Alfred,
and others were very noticeable. Gloria Mundi
was exceptionally well coloured, the crown be-
ing of a brilliant hue. Pearl of Kent (see
Awards) we regard as the finest named-novelty
present. A notable feature was the massive
character of the foliage, and had the flowers
been cut with longer stems and some attempt
at artistic arrangement made, the group would
have excited still further admiration.

The second prize was aw-arded to Miss
KATUERiNfc A. Spurrell, Hanworth, Norwich,
whose examples of Mdme. de Graaff, Maggie
May, Snowdrop, Lucifer, and Fireball were all
notable and good.

Mr. W. R. Darli.ngton, Potter's Bar (gr.
Mr. D. Bignall), also contributed a choice as-
sortment, and among the many good things
displayed, Pe.nch, Golden Bell (a big yellow
Ajax), and Glory of Leiden, especially appealed
to us.

The exhibit from the Rev. G. H. Engle-
he.\rt, Dinton, Salisbury, was almost wholly
composed of seedlings of the poeticus and the
Englehearti types, the former predominating,
and many surpassed even such fine things as
Homer.

Messrs. Baru & Sons, Covent Garden, W.C.,
staged a table of the choicest kinds. We no-
ticed Cassandra — a fine poeticus; Mrs. G. H.
Barr, Whit3 Ajax, the renowned Peter Barr,
Monarch, King Alfred, iVc. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Mr. Alex. M. Wilson, Spilsby, Lines., was
awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a beautiful
collection of Daffodils. We select Homespun,
of lemon yellow tint and having perfectly
rounded perianth segments ; Concord, of simi-
lar shape, but deeper in colour and with a rich
red crown; C. J. Backhouse, by no means a
novelty, but superbly coloured ; Bullfinch,
Grandis, and the e'egant and graceful semi-
double Argent — a valuable flower for vases.
(Silver Flora Medal.)

Miss F. W. Currey, Lismore, Ireland,
brought a very beautiful collection, all in ex-
cellent condition : Queen Sophia, with prettil}'
tinted crown, t'^e handsome double-ilowered
Primrose Phoenix, Big Ben, Beacon, and others.
The prett\' drooping flowers of Triandrus cala-
thinus appeared very modest amid the rich
array of the other flowers, but it is a flower
always to be admirsd. (Silver Flora Medal.)

The extensive collection from Messrs. R. H.
Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, contained many good
things, and such gems as Maggie May, Lady
Margaret Boscawen, Lobster, and Glory of
Noordwijk (an enormously big bi-colur, whose
perianth segments are decidedly weak and
washy in tone). King's Norton (a superb yellow
self). White Queen (very fine), Weardale Per-
fection, Eyebrig'-t, \-c. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Pope & Son, King's Norton, Birming.
ham, contributed a choice assortment. Will
Scarlett, with crown similar in colour and size
to the form of Iceland Poppy known as
"Miniata"; Mrs. Butteridge — a white Ajax;
Daystar ; Orangeman, with fine rich cup ; Al-
mira, &-c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. Robert Sydenham, Birmingham, had a
small set of good kinds which included
Waveren's Giant, Bullfinch, and others.

Many good kinds were also shown by Mr. G.
Reuthe, Keston, Kent, while Sir Ed.mund
Loder, Horsham, had about 70 different sorts
of these popular flowers.

Messrs. Hogg & Roisertson, Dublin, also
contributed freely, and, despite the journey, the
flowers appeared in excellent condition. Lady
Arnott, possessing a fine red cup ; Mrs. H. D.
Betteridge, Mrs. Plamilton, Gloria Mundi, Sea
Gull, and the fine Ajax Duke of Bedford were
all noticeable. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Jas. 'VErrcH & Sons, Ltd., Chelsea,
staged a representative gathering in good form.

Of more than ordinary merit was a choice lot
from Sir Josslyn Gore-I5ooth, Bart., Sligo, Ire.
land. This group was rather strong in the
poet's kindSj Homer, Almira, and others being
well represented. Incognita, an Englehearti,
White Lady, Peach, with pretty crown, Mdme.

de Graaff, Nels.3ni, Mrs. Backhouse, \t

(Sil-

ver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. J. R, Pearson & Sons, Lowdliam,
had a very beautiful set of the flowers including
such grand things as King's Norton, Waveren's
Giant, Sir F. Drake, Homespun, Heroine, Ike.
The gem of the group was a unique solitary
white. flowered seedling with perfectly rounded
perianth segments and having a nearly flat,
lightly-goffered crown faintly touched with
lemon or palest orange colour. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Awards of Merit.

Narcissus Peart of Kent. — This remarkable
flower may best be styled a giant cernuus, with
the purity of Peter Barr and the lovely form of
Madame de Graaff. Further, this striking
variety possesses a vigour and a stature sur-
passing either Empress or Emperor. The
parents are said to be Madame de C-raaff and
Monarch, and among white Ajax kinds this
novelty may be regarded as unique. From Mr.
G. P. Havdon, Canterbury.

A'. Warleycnsis. — A self yellow kind of giant
proportions, and a fine companion to King's
Norton and others of that type. A flower of
great substance and of excellent form. From
iliss Willmott, Great Warley.

A', odorus rngulosus maximtis. — This flower is
large and symmetrical, with all the colour and
fragrance of N. odorus, but as at present seen,
with not more than one flower in a scape. The
rich intense colour and the perfect form render
it a most welcome addition. The name is too
long, being almost a description. From
Messrs. B.\rr & Sons, Covent Garden.

Orchid Committee.

Present : Harry J. Veitch, Esq. (in the chair),
and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec). De B. Craw-
shay, H. Little, W. Boxall, Francis Wellesley,
Elijah .\shworth, F. Sander, Arthur Dye, W.
Thompson, H. T. Pitt, J. Charlesworth, G. F.
Moore, J. Wilson Potter. W. H. While, W. H.
Young, H. G. Alexander, H. A. Tracy, W. A.
Bilney, R. Brooman-'White, and Normsn C.
Cookson.

There was an interesting display of Orchids in
which Odontoglossums. which formed the subjects
of the Diploma Awards, predominated. A fine
group, in which the forms of Odontoglossura
crispum were well represented, was staged by
H. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill (gr.
Mr. Thurgood), and secured a Silver-Gilt Flora
Medal. The centre of attraction in the group was
Odontoglossum crispum F. K. Sander, a marvellous
variety with very large and finely-formed flowers.
Fully two-thirds of the inner area of the sepals
and petals was of a bright reddish claret colour,
the margin and outer third of the segments being
white, tinged with purple colour, the reverse of
the flower almost as showily coloured as the face.
The lip was white with a yellow crest and red-
brown blotches. Next in importance was O.
crispum Britain's King, heavily blotched and
marked with purple colour ; and other fine forms
were O. crispum Stanley J. Pitt, O. crispum King
Richard, O. crispum Ladybird, and O. crispum
Maud Rochford. Forms of O. Adrianse and others

254

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 21, 1900.

were included, ilso Houlletia odoratissima, Lycaste
Lawrenceana, &c.

Messrs. Chaklesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, secured a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for a fine
group which included some good new hybrid
Odontoglossums, two of which were awarded
First-Class Certificates (see Awards). Cattleya
Triana;, Uplands variety, fine in colour, was well
shown ; several Brassavola Digbyana crosses,
including the fine white Brasso-Cattleya Queen
Alexandra, Laelio-Cattleya Mercia, L.-C. Myra,
good L.-C. callistoglossa, the pretty new Odon-
lioda Heatonensis, &c.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, were
awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a nice group in
which were some fine hybrids and an interesting
selection of species which included the pretty
Aerides Micbolitzii, a selection of twenty good
Lycaste Skinneri, the pretty L. Lawrenceana,
Galeandra Baueri, a singular unknown Catasetum
with greenish-white flovi-ers, Polystachya brac-
teosa, Maxillaria Sanderiana, Dendrobium capil-
lipes, Epidendrum Wallisii, the delicately-tinted
Laelia purpurata Schroderiana in two varieties, &c.
The liybrids included a very dark form of Cypri-
pedium Tautzianum, good Lselio-Cattleya bletch-
leyensis, and other varieties ; also two spotted
forms of Odontoglossum crispum, and the singular
Oncidium illustre, a supposed natural hybrid be-
tween O. maculatum and O. leucochilum. The
sepals and petals were yellowish, barred with
purple-brown colour, and the lip white and much
larger than others of the section.

C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham
(gr. Mr. Duncan), secured a Silver Flora Medal
for a fine group, rich in Odontoglossums, and
especially in good forms of O. crispum, of which
there were several blotched varieties, the best
being O. crispum Warnhamense, a very pretty
and finely-formed flower, evenly spotted with dark
purple. Among the Odontoglossums was a pretty
rose-tinted variety of O. ramosissimum, &c. All
were remarkably well grown.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, obtained a
Silver Flora Medal for a group, in the centre of
which was a grand specimen of the old Dendrobium
Pierardi. With it were several good D. Boxalli,
a splendidly coloured D. crassinode and other
Dendrobiums : two nicely spotted Odontoglossum
crispum, Cymbidium devonianum, Cattleya Schro-
derae varieties, C. intermedia alba, &c.

Messrs. Jas. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham, sent
Cattleya Mendeli Duchess of York, a clear white
variety, with yellow disc and slight rose-coloured
tint on the lip ; three very fine varieties of Miltonia
vexillaria, the one with very large magenta rose-
coloured flowers ; M. v. virginalis with rose-coloured
sepals, and petals margined with white, the large
blade of the lip also white ; and another with very
large rosy lilac-coloured flowers.

Baron Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Egham (gr.
Mr. H. Ballantine), showed the handsome purple-
spotted Odontoglossum Pescatorei Veitchianum,
O. P. Schroderianum, and the distinct O. P.
melanocentrum, white with a dark reddish-purple
base to the lip ; O. Adrianse aureum, Cattleya
Memoria Dallemagnse, var. Alexandra, and Epi-
dendrum Cleon.

M. Chas, Vuvlsteke, Loochristy, Ghent,
showed a selection of good hybrid Odontoglossums,
including O. amabile, O. percultum, O. Lawrence-
anum, O. excellens, and O. ardentissimum, and
the showy O. crispum spectatum, resembling a
good O. ardentissimum, but with the lip of the
form of O. crispum.

F. J. O. Montagu, Esq., Melton Park, Don-
caster, sent Cattleya Schroderas, F. J. O. Montagu
with white sepals and petals and finely crimped
.ip with brownish orange disc and rose-pink
coloured front.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq,, Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), showed the finely
blotched Odontoglossum crispum Rossendale, and
a remarkable specimen of the rich , purple-spotted
O. crispum Frederick, with a spike of 17 fine
flowers, and an old spike with a large seed ovary ;
splendid examples of good culture.

Mr. H. Whateley, Kenihvorth, sent several
good spotted Odontoglossums, the best, O. crispum
WhateleyEe, securing an Award of Merit.

Francis Wellesley, Esq. (gr. Mr. Hopkins),
showed Cypripedium bellatulum citrinum, pale
yellow heavily blotched with claret-purple.

Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr. Mr.
W. P. Bound), showed Odontoglossum trium-
phans latisepalum and aureum.

De B. Crawshay, Esq., Rosefleld, Sevenoaks
(gr. Mr. Stables), showed a selection of very fine

Odontoglossums, the large-flowered typical white
or blush-tinted O. c. Venus, and O. c. Lady
Buchan, which secured the First and Second
Diplomas in their class, being superb. With them
were the unapproachable O. tnumphans Lionel
Crawshay, which has never yet had a trial ; and
the prettily marked O. Andersonianum Raymond
Crawshay.

AWARDS.
First-Class Certificates.

Brasso-Cattleya Mrs. Francis WellcsUy (C. Ludde-
manniana X B. Digbyana), from Francis Welles-
ley, Esq. (gr. Mr. Hopkins). Avery remarkable and
beautiful variety, and the largest of the class, its
petalsextendingover 11 inches, and the sepals, from
tip to tip, one foot. The sepals and fringed petals
are silver-white, with a delicate lilac-rose tint, the
veining being very light purplish rose. The mid-
rib oi each segment is white at the base. The
lip, which is over 4 inches across, is finely
fringed ; the disc, primrose yellow, the front sott
rose coloured . The colours are exquisitely displayed
and of very delicate tinting.

Lalio-Brasso-Cattkya x Veitchii (Laelia purpurata
alba X Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-Mossiae), from
Messrs James Veitch & Sons, Chelsea. A grand
hybrid, pointedly showing the advantages of second
crossing. The flower is large, and bearing some
resemblance to the best forms of Laelio-Cattleya
callistoglossa, but perfect in form, and with an
openly-displayed fringed lip. Sepals and petals
silver-white tinged with rose ; lip white at the base
with a yellow disc and ruby-crimson front, getting
lighter towards the finely fringed margin.

Lalio-Cattlcya callistoglossa, "The Dell variety,"
from Baron Sir PI. Schroder (gr. Mr. Ballantine).
A finely formed and showy flower, with lilac-tinted
sepals and petals and very fine labellum, the front
of which is dark ruby-crimson.

Odontoglossum amabile "John Bradshaw " (crispum
Calypso X Harryano- crispum), from Messrs.
Charlesworth & Co. A very beautiful, distinct
and finely coloured hybrid, with the inner two-
thirds of the sepals and petals barred with claret-
purple, the outer parts being white tinged with
purple. Lip, pure white in front, marked with
purple at the base.

Odontoglossum 11'. H. Hatcher (crispo-Harryanum
X Pescatorei Charlesworthii), from Messrs.
Charlesworth & Co. A charming hybrid of
perfect shape, with white sepals and petals tinged
with rose, and heavily blotched and banded with
dark purple. Front of lip white.

Awards of Merit.

Lislio-Cattleya Baroness Schroder, var. delicata (L.
Jongheana x C. TrianE) from Major G. L.
HoLFORD, CLE., C.V.O., Weslonbirt (cr. Mr.
Alexander). A really fine flower, formed much
like Laelia Jongheana, but broader in all is parts
and as large as C. Trianae. Sepals ani petals
light rose, lip orange colour with a rose margin,
which is finely crimped.

Odontoglossum crispum Whateleyce, from Mr. H.
Whateley, Kenihvorth. A pretty and well-
formed flower, with some indication of O. Adrianae ;
white, evenly and profusely spotted with dark
purple.

Botanical Certificate.

Dcndrohium shillongense (verified at Kew), from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, ]3art. (gr. Mr. W. H.
White). The plant was shown at the last meeting,
and, as it resembled D. lasioglossum, was referred
for verification. Flowers, an inch across, white,
with a downy crest to the labellum, which was
streaked with purple on the side lobes.

Cultural Commendation. '
To Mr. H. G. Alexander (Orchid grower to
Major G. L. Holford) for a fine plant of Miltonia
vexillaria superba of a beautiful magenta rose
tint, and with eight spikes bearing between them
over 50 flowers.

Diploma Awards.

Odontoglossum crispum (typical unspotted).
First Diploma. — Odontoglossum crispum Venus.
Second Diploma. — O. crispum Lady Buchan ; both
from De B. Crawshay, Esq.

Ooontoglossum crispum (spotted). First Dip-
loma.— O. crispum Rossendale, from Norman C.
Cookson, Esq., and J. Wilson Potter, Esq.
Second Diploma. — O. crispum Jeanette, from J.
Wilson Potter, Esq.

Odontoglossum triumphans. First Diploma. —
O. triumphans Lionel Crawshay, from De B.
Crawshay, Esq.

Odontoglossum Pescatorei. Second Diploma. —
O. Pescatorei Schroderianum, from Baron
Schroder (gr. Mr. Ballantine).

Odontoglossum Hybrids. First Diploma. — O.
Adrianas aureum, from Baron Schroder.

Over 200 of the Society's paintings of Certificated
Odontoglossums formed a very instructive exhibit.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Awards of Merit.
The committee adjudicated upon five varieties
of Broccoli, after trial at Wisley, and granted an
award of merit to the varieties Richmond Late
White and Sutton's Late Queen, sent by Messrs,
Hurst & Son, Hounsditch, and by Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Reading, respectively.

Scientific Committee.

April 2. — Present: Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S.
(in the chair); Rev. W. Wilks, M.A., Messrs.
Giissow, Michael, Worsdell, Bowles, Hooper,
Shea, Saunders, Gordon, Hemsley, Chapman,
and Chittenden (hon. sec). Visitor: Mrs. Scott.

Photographs of movements in plants. — The chair-
man introduced Mrs. Dukinfield Scott, who
e.xplained the method of taking several successive
photographs of plants on a large sensitive plate
at frequent intervals, so that the photographs
could be shown continuously on a screen by means
of a cinematograph and thus illustrate the nature
and extent of the movements performed by the
different parts of plants.

Potato scab and " Rhizoctonia." — Mr. Gussow
referred to the Potatos covered with a violet web
of fungal hyphae belonging to the fungus Rhizoc-
tonia shown before the Scientific Committee on
October 24, 1905, and reported upon at the
meeting on November 1, 1905, and said that he
had been conducting experiments, which showed

CChfcn

Fig. 104. — A natural parachute (seed of

leucodendron argenteum).

Seep. 255.

that this fungus produces the well-known scab
disease on Potatos. (See report in Journal, Royal
Agricultural Society, vol. 66 (1905), pp. 173-177,
with figures.) He referred to some independent
investigations upon the same fungus carried out
by Mr. F. M. Rolfs, M.S., of the Colorado
Agricultural College, whose careful observations
are published in " U.S.A. Experimental Station,
Colorado," Bulls. 70 and 91. These observations
seem hitherto to have escaped notice in this coun-
try. Mr. Rolfs has carried on his observations
during three years, and has placed it beyond doubt
that the fungus known as Rhizoctonia violacea is
the cause of the Potato scab in America. He has
also cleared up the mystery of the "sterile
mycelial fungus," as this has been called, by
finding the fruiting stage, which proves it to be-
long to the Hymenomycetes, and to agree with the
fungus called Corticium vagum. Dr. E. A. Burt
calls it var. solani of that fungus. Thus a very
interesting fact has been arrived at, and, although
Mr. Gussow is well aware of the numerous other
fungi to which the scab disease has been attributed,
he considers there is no doubt that the real cause
has now been finally ascertained. It is interesting,
said Mr. Gussow, to observe that Mr. Rolfs suc-
ceeded in 203 cases out of 225 in producing the
disease from the basidiospores and the sclerotia of
the Corticium, and he finds that dipping the seed

April 21, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

255

Potatos into a weak solution of corrosive sublimate
(loz. to 10 gallons of water) efficiently checks the
injury, a fact of great importance.

Galls on Spruce and Yew. — Galls on Spruce and
Yew were shown by Mr. Hooper, and taken by
Mr. Saunders to report upon.

Fruits of Leiicrdeiidron {seebg. 104). — Dr.MASTERS
showed some fruits of the Silver Tree, L<,uco-
dendron argenteum. The flowers are uni-
sexual. The abortive stamens in the female
flowers are covered with long, silky, white hairs,
and are united at the base around the wiry style
from which the fruit depends, the style being pre-
vented from passing through tlie hole where the
staminal lobes are joined by the button-like stigma.
Thus the whole forms a parachute apparatus by
means of which the dispersal of the fruit is assisted.

Double Spathe in Anthurium fsee fig. 105). — Herr
Froebel, of Zurich, sent a specimen of the in-
florescence of Anthurium Scherzerianum, in which
the spathe was doubled, the second and smaller
spathe being separated from the lower by an in-
ternode of about iin. The second spathe had
not yet expanded.

QAiocnron ^

Fig. 105. — ANTHURinn with two spaihes,

the upper one tubular as -jhown in section at the upper

left-l^^nd corner.

Sporting in Calceolaria. — Mr. Shea drew atten-
tion to a curious herbaceous Calceolaria shown
by Mr. Riley, of Oakfield, Walton-on-Thames,
one side of which bore yellow flowers, while the
greater part, about two-thirds, bore pinkish flowers,
some of which, however, had a patch of yellow
upon them. The variation was very similar to
that in the Cockscomb shown by Mr. Sutton at
a recent meeting, and to that of a Poppy described
and figured in these columns by Frof. F. Oliver,
April 5, 1902, p. 22.3, fig. 71.

Tropical Fruits. — Mr. WoRSLEY exhibited a Pine-
apple from Natal which was peculiar in having
the horny processes at the ends of the bracts
more highly developed than usual. He suggested
that it might be derived partly from Ananas macro-
donta. There was a marked absence of woody
fibre and a pleasant flavour.

Leaves, <S-f., Injured. — Mr. Jenkins sent leaves of
Ivy-leaved Pelargonium upon which were brownish
warts, which later dropped out, leaving a small
hole. Fuchsias, Hydrangeas, and other plants
were similarly affected in the house. Mr. Gussow
took them to examine further. Numerous other
specimens of diseased plants were received from
different correspondents.

Plants Exhibited.

1. — Mr. Worsley drew attention to some plants
of Tulipa dasystemon (Regel) shown by C. J.
Van Tubergen.F.R.H.S., of Haarlem, Holland.
This Tulip is a native of Siberia, is dwarf in habit,
and bears flowers of a yellowish colour and very
sweet scented. One of the bulbs exhibited carried
five flowers,

2.- — Sanscviera Laurentii (De Wild). A species
from the Congo, introduced from Stanleyville,
Stanley Falls, by the late Prof. Laurent in 1904,
having erect leaves about 18 in. in length mar-
gined with yellow.

3. — Ficus (?) Drycpoudtiana (De Wildeman), from
the same district as tlie last. A handsome foliage
plant, with bold, dark gr;en, bullate leaves, red be-
neath, and with narrow membranous stipules. To
this a Botanical Certificate, as an interesting
novelty, was awarded on the motion of Dr.
Masters, seconded by Mr. Gussow. The last two
plants were shown by the Director of the State
Botanic Gardens, Brussels. The Ficus, if Ficus
it be. is figured in the last number of the Revue
de i Horticulture Beige.

DEVON DAFFODIL AND SPRINO
FLOWER.

April 10. — This society held a success-
ful show in the Guildhall at Plymouth on
the above date. Numbers of exhibitors from
Cornwall entered in the open classes, though
the unfortunate but unavoidable fixture of
the show in Holy Week prevented clerical
exhibitors from competing. In the classes
confined to the county of Devon the entries
were numerous and the competition exceed-
ingly keen, and it is very evident that the
society has attained its aim in promoting the
culture of the Daffodil in the county. The
entries for flowering shrubs were fewer than
was the case last year, but no falling off was
shown in the other classes. Spring flowers and
pot plants were plentiful, and the latter of ex-
cellent quality. Nurserymen's exhibits were of
a high order of merit, and added much t'o the
beautiful floral picture provided in the great
hall. The judges passed a vote of thanks to
Mr. II. Grigg for a very fine collection of
flowering shrubs and spring flowers, to Col. F.
Hext for several large bunches of superb Nea-
politan Violets, and to Mr. R. Svde.miam for a
stand of bulbs grown in moss fibre. For a col-
lection of 30 varieties of Daffodils, the 1st prize
was awarded to Mr. E. H. .Williams for a fine
stand containing, among others, t.)ueen Caro-
line, Flamingo, Ben Jonson, Lady Aline, Al-
mira. Flora Wilson, Herrick, and Mrs. C.
Bowlcy.

For a group of Daffodil seedlings not in com.
merce, a Silver Cup was adjudged to Mr. J. C.
Williams, who staged fifteen magnificent; un-
named varieties of seedling Narcissi, among
which were a fine bi-color trumpet of great
substance with very pointed petals ; a large
white flower with prettily curved perianth and
deep yellow cup edged with a broad band of
orange scarlet ; a very large sulphur white with
wide-petalled perianth and deep yellow cup ; a
pale primrose with bright orange, expanded
crown ; a white \v\X\i flat orange-scarlet crown,
a " Marvel " seedling, white with green-centred
scarlet cup, and twin-flowered seedlings that
gave the appearance of being Minnie Hume and
triandrus crosses.

For nine distinct Medio coronati, the 1st
prize went to Hon. J. Boscawen, who had a
fine stand containing Enid, White Lady, Briga-
dier, Elaine, and Resolute in faultless condi-
tion.

Best group of Rhododendron trusses : 1st
prize, Mrs. Coryton, with a representative col.
lection in which were included R. fragrantissi.
mum, R. Dalhousiffi, and R. campylocarpum.

Finest truss of Rhododendron : 1st prize, the
Earl ok Morley.

Six Camellias : 1st prize, Mrs. Coryton.

Finest Camellia : 1st prize, Mrs. J. Williams.

Group of 20 hard-wooded flowering shrubs :
1st prize, the Eael of Mount Edgcumbe, with
an interesting collection containing Correas,
-Acacias, Embothrium coccineum, and many
rare shrubs. 2nd prize, Mrs. Coryton.

There were ten entries for the premier Devon
class, 15 varieties of Daffodils, for which the

1st prize was given to Mr. G. Soltau-Symons.
The other classes were also well filled, especi-
ally those for the finest single blooms, each of
which had ten or more entries. The 1st prize
for 20 hard-wooded flowering shrubs was won
by Mrs. Bainbridge with a good collection.
There were also classes for Primroses, Polyan-
thi. Auriculas, Cinerarias, Freesias, Lily of the
Valley, Cyclamen, Hyacinths, Tulips, &c.

Messrs. Bakr's Silver Cup for the best col-
lection of Daffodils was won by Mrs. W.

TVAC.KE.

Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, Exeter were
awarded a Gold Medal for an excellent stand of
miscellaneous plants including Saxifraga Guild-
ford seedling, S. oppositifolia, S. apiculata, S.
Boydii, S. Grisebachii, S. retusa, Androsace
arachnoides, A. sempervivoides, A. viUosa, A.
Chumbvi, A. Laggeri, A. pyrenaica, A. carnea,
Rhodiola rubra, Draba olympica, Shortia galaci-
folia, Dondia epipactis. Primula nivalis, P. vis-
cosa, P. marginata, P. denticulata, P. Lind-
sayana, fine Tree Carnations, Lilacs, Magnolias,
Acacias, and other flowering shrubs. The
Devon Rosery, Torquay, exhibited a large col.
lection of pot Roses in flower (Silver Medal).
Messrs. Dobbie cS: Son, Rothesay, showed won-
derfully fine single anemones, for which they
were given a Silver Medal and an Award of
Merit. They also showed Pansies. Messrs.
Sutton & Sons, Reading staged a splendid lot
of Cinerarias, for which they received an Award
of Merit, and a Silver Medal. Messrs. T.
Chalice & Son, Plympton (Silver Medal),
showed Brachyglottis repanda in full flower,
Andromeda speciosa, Cytisus Kewcnsis, C. pur.
pureus, the curiously spotted Rhododendron
Princess of Wurtemburg, Pyrus Maulej, &c.
Mr. Vincent Slade, Taunton, Silver Medal, a
collection of Zonal Pelargonium trusses.
Messrs. Barr & Sons, who obtained a Silver
Medal, staged over 150 varieties of Daffodils,
amongst which were Lady Janet Jodrell, Peter
Barr, Chanticleer, Admiral Togo, Fairy Queen,
King Alfred, Loveliness, Ariadne, Cleopatra,
and Big Ben.

NATIONAL AURICULA AND PRIMULA-

April 17. — The annual display of this society
is an event looked forward to by growers with
the keenest interest, and certainly at the show
in the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall on
Tuesday last, there were not wanting either
competitors or enthusiasm.

In some of the larger classes for Auriculas —
that for 24 show kinds, for example — many
noted competitors were to the front, Mr.
Douglas, Bookham ; Mr. W. B. Cranfield,
Enfield; and Mr. J. H. Wilson, Shefiield, tak-
ing the three first places in the order given.

In the class for 12 show kinds, Mr. Douglas
was again first, with clean, well-grown
examples, Mr. Turner, Slough, following.

For six plants, Mr. W. Shipman, Altrincham,
and Miss Willmott, Great Warley, secured the
leading places ; while Mr. J. T. Bennett Poe
took the first place with four plants.

In more than one instance, Messrs. Phillips
■ and Taylor, Bracknell, staged a very creditable
lot of plants.

Miss Willmott secured first place in the
class for selfs.

The class for 24 Alpines was strongly con-
tested, Mr. Douglas leading, and Mr. Martin
Smith taking the second place. Firefly, Rosy
Morn, and Duke of York were all good in the
first prize lot. Mr. Douglas was also first for
12 Alpines, Mr. Easton, Twyford, taking the
lead in the following class for six plants.

In the class for fancies, Mr. Douglas was
again to the front, and his Daffodil, Oriental,
Old Gold, and Saxon, were especially fine.

The leading prize for 12 Primulas was won
by Mr. Martin Smith, who had Kewensis, ver-
ticillata, frondosa, integrifolia, nivalis, and
many more in capital form. The same ex-
hibitor was first for a group of Primulas, which
included species and varieties in flower.

Mr. Mortimer was strong in Polyanthus, and
Mr. J. Crook brought from Forde Abbey,
Chard, a very excellent strain of Polyanthus,
which was highly recommended. This last-
named exhibit was not for competition. Mr,
W. A. \y.\TTS, St. Asaph, exhibited similarly
a collection of cut Polyanthus, that gave evi-
dence of a good strain.

250

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Apkti. 21, ISOG.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT
AND PROVIDENT.

April 9. — The monthly committee ij;eeting of
this society was held at the Royal Horticultural
Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, S.W., on the
above date, Mr. Thomas Winter in the chair.
Four new members were elected, mating a total of
51 for the quarter. Seven members were reported
on the sick fund at the present time. The usual
quarterly grants were made to members on the
benevolent fund. The annual report and balance-
sheet has been posted to all the members. Any
member not having received one can have a copy
sent by applying to the secretary.

John Mahon. — One more has to be added to
the list of clever young men who have gone from
Kew to do empire work in Africa, and have lost
their lis-es in so doing. That list is a long one.
And still they go, cheerfully and full of hope.
■' Soon and sure the gap is filled. Pioneers !
Pioneers! " Heroes every one of them, their
foes, worse than men, savage or civilised, being
black-water fe\'er, malaria, and the dreaded sleeping
sickness. No men in their several ways ever
served their country better, or performed their duty
with greater zeal than these <Ud. whose end came

account speaks of the charm, interest, and com-
mercial promise of Uganda — "and it ought to
go ahead if the health of the white men engaged
in the task of whipping it into shape can be
assured. It is hard to convince even those who
know it that such a charming country can
nave so much disease lurking about. He came
home with the poison in his blood three years ago,
and with the help of the most eminent doctors he
fought a brave fight for his own life and in the
cause of science. When he could do a little work,
he was employed either at Kew or the Imperial
Institute, the Director of which treated him with
much sympathy and kindness. He died in Univer-
sity College Hospital, where he was under the
special care of Dr. Rose Bradford, F.R.S., and
was buried on April 10, in Richmond Cemetery,
many of the officials of Kew and the Imperial
Institute attending the funeral. He leaves a
widow, but no children. Mahon was the soul of
modesty and unselfishness, and yet he complained
bitterly of the treatment he received as a Govern-
ment official, ir.

Mrs. Honess. — Many of our readers will
regret to hear of the death on Tuesday last, at
Byfleet, Surrey, of Mrs. Honess. widow of Charles
Honess. who died in 1900. and was previously
gardener at Cobham Park, Surrey, where his
son is head gardener at the present time.

Evelyn Elizabeth Hill, only daughter of
Mr. J. G. Hill (ol Messrs. Bull & Sons. Chelsea),
died April 14th. after an illness of ten days, at
Greyside, Muswell Hill. N.

THE L.^TE JOHN M.\KON'.

all too soon. John Mahon went to Kew lO years
ago. a bright young Irishman, full of love for
plants and with a nature as poetical, as manly and
as lovable as that of the best of his countrymen.
A hard worker, a close student, a follower of
William Morris, and therefore full of the milk of
human kindness. Mahon soon won the hearts
of his associates and the notice of those in
authority over him. When Sir Harry Johnston
sought a good man to serve as forester in
British Central Africa, Mahon was the man
selected, and Sir Harrv was congratulated on his
good fortune to get him. The work Mahon did
was mixed up with that of others, so that only few
could see how well he had served. Some idea of
his powers of observation can be gathered from
the account of his first impressions of Tropical
Africa which he communicated to the Jouriuil of the
Kew Guild in 1898, p. 17, a delightful sketch, for
Mahon could write and talk as well as he could
do things. He sent home thousands of dried
specimens, seeds, tubers and plants. He came
home dissatisfied with the treatment he got, for he
soon drooped if not encouraged. Sir Harry John-
ston, however, knew Mahon's worth, and he was
engaged again for pioneer work, this time in
Uganda. . An account of " A Journey to Uganda "
was coptributed by him to the Kcm Guild Journal
for 1903, p. 145, after he had been invalided home
through fever, which turned out to be the deadly
sleeping sickness. The last paragraph in that

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Caddis Worm : if. B. Kindly send us specimens.

Calville Blanc: X. The word is masculine,
and is derived from a locality near Lyon. It
should not, as is usually the case, be written
blanche. See Littr^.

Croquet Lawn. Constant Reader. For the pur-
pose of playing the game of croquet, a well-
rolled level grass-plat or lawn not less than
thirty yards long by twenty yards wide is re-
quired. A full-sized croquet ground measures
forty yards long by thirty yards wide. The
following diagram will show what is needed : —

A

8 yarns 8 yarns

•D a a o

ij yards

Y

In the line through the centre of the ground,
eight yards from the boundary at either end, put
the croquet pegs, and at 16 yards from either
end a hoop. Let the corner hoops be placed
in a line with the pegs, and seven yards from
the pegs. This and similar information is con-
tained in the Calendar of Garden Operations, to be
obtained from our Publishing Department, price
7id. post free.

Cystopteris MONTANA : Correction. We are sorry
to find that the illustration at p. 229 shows the
abnormal evergreen fronds to be more markedly
pinnate and with more conspicuous venation
than was actually the case.

Horticultural Trade Journal : A.W.S. The
price is 2s. 6d. per year, but it is, we believe, sup-
plied to the trade only. Address, Horticultural
Printing Co., Burnley.

Insects : F. M . What you send are Millipedes,
v;hich are very destructive. Trap them with
slices of Potato or Carrot, or apply a dressing
of gas lime.

Ivy Bark Eaten : G. L. N . The bark from the
Ivy shoots must have been removed by squirrels
or mice. If there are any of the former in the
gardens, these are the more likely culprits. W'e
clo not know of any insect which is likely to
have done the mischief.

Judging at Flower Shows: .-1«.v/ii»s. The fee
paid for this work varies, but is always the
outcome of an arrangement between the judge
and the society's officials for whom he is to adjudi-
cate. In some cases the fees include travelling
expenses, but in not all, in which case of course
these must be taken into consideration when the
fee is agreed upon. In the case of rich societies
out-of-pocket expenses are always paid in ad-
dition to the tees. By "terms" the committee
mean not only out-of-pocket expenses, but some
recompense for the work. You can obtain the
Royal Horticultural Society's Code of Rules for
Judging from our Publishing Department, price
Is. 7Jd. post free.

Legal Questions; /. R. We do not know of
any book which would be serviceable to you.
Assuming that you are a trader and that there
is nothing to the contrary in the lease, you can
remove all the things you mention before the
expiration of the term, but, if in doubt, you will
do well to consult a solicitor.

Names of Plants : W. 0. W. Alonsoa incisi-
folia, — M A. Scilla niitans alba. — A. Y. L.
1, Dendrobium chrysotoxura ; 2, Triteleia
uniflora. — G. T. Y. 1, Kerria japonica ; 2, Pyrus
(Cydonia) japonica ; 3, Azara microphylla :
4, Skinneria japonica : 5, Cupressus Lawsoniana
white var. ; 6, Thuya dolabrata. — J. U. Ane-
mone blanda. — Japoniea, Durham. 1, Oncidium
sphacelatum ; 2, Odontoglossum triumphans ;
3, Cornus Mas. Male Dogwood. — J. R. Crinum
capense. — Miss L. Triteleia uniflora. — •/. McC.
Oxalis Bowiei. — A . C. , Lichfield. What miserable
specimens ! You surely cannot expect us to name
them correctly ! 1, Lopezia coronata ; 2, Mes-
embryanthemum ; 3, a Composite species not
recognised; 4, .Amygdalus nana; 5 and 6, un-
recognised.

Peach Tree. 5. E. The time usually chosen
for artificial pollinating in glass houses is at
noon or thereabouts, the reason being that the
conditions are usually drier at that time than at
any other part of the day, and consequently the
pollen can be more easily transferred. But it
does not lollow that the stigmatic surface is
not receptive at other times, and we think the
gardener would be doing good even if he
could not perform the ooeration earlier than
4 o'clock. We must remember that many plants
owe their pollinating to night-flying moths, and are
pollinated when it is quite dark. The Peaches have
probably dropped from other causes than non-
fertilising. Much has been written in our pages
on Peaches dropping, and it is generally con-
sidered to be due to either insufficient water at
the roots at some period of the year — in most
cases during the late summer and autumn ; over-
cropping the previous season, or unripened wood.
The iKiuid manure prepared from the stable
byre would suit the requirements of these trees,
but it is not of the same consistency as that pre-
pared from cows. As the borders have already
a heavy dressing of stable manure, it will be
advisable not to apply further stimulants, as
there would be danger of over-feeding, which
might in itself cause the Peaches to drop.

i:''0TAT0 : A. A. W. We cannot undertake to
name Potato tubers.

Rhododendrons : /. R. It is very likely that the
leaves would prove to be poisonous to sheep, it
being well known that some species are of a
poisonous nature, it having been recorded that
goats have died after eating the leaves of R.
cinnabirinum.

Tulips: R.N. The bulbs and leaves are covered
with the Tulip mould Botrytis parasitica, which
is causing such wholesale destruction. Burn
the bulbs and plant elsewhere, or bake the soil
before planting in it.

Violet Leaves : Miss F. N. You should be able
to get leaves from the nurserymen and market
growers, but in such a serious matter do not
act without accurate knowledge. Insert an
advertisement.

* * Reports of the Roval Botanic (mainly a
repetition of the Show at the Royal Horti-
cultural Society on the previous day) and of the
Manchester Orchid Society are unavoidably
omitted.

Communications Received.— A. H. S. (Johannssbure)—
T. W.— Stanley & Co.— R. H.— A. & B.— De B. C— R. H.
— W G. S.— A. M. v.— W. Kelly— H. A. Pettigrew (many
thanks)— J. Gutlridge— E. G. G.— A. S.— P. S.— H. K. M.
—J. G.— C. S. B. C— C. R.— H. W. VV.— W. P.— R, P. U

For Market Reports sec pcif^c xiv.

Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

^^^0^r

Brasso-Cattleya, '-The Bakox." Sepals and Petals yellowish cream coloured, freckled

WITH ROSE and I'URPLE BETWEEN THE VEINS. LiP PRIMROSE YELLOW, MARKED WITH
emerald GREEN AND SHADES OF ROSE AND PURPLE. FrOM THE COLLECTION

OF Messrs. Sander & Sons.

Temple Fress Ltd.. Printers, 7-15, Kosebery Avenue, London, E.C.

April 28, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

257

THE

No. U009.^SATURDA\\ April 2S, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Alpine garden —

Houstonias

Anthuriura, an erratic ...
Aspidistra seedlings ...
Bedding, novel modes

of

Books, notices of—

A Travers la Caucase

Congo Flora

Hortus Veitchii

Traits d' Exploitation
Commerciale des

Bois

■Calceolaria mexicana ...
Cassiope hypnoides ...
C h i n e se not e-b o o k,

leaves from mv (E.

Tibet)

Country in town move-
ment, the

Fungus on roots of fruit

trees

■Gardening as a remedial

agent

Holy Land, notes on the

flora of the

Japanese vegetation ...
Magnolia stellata
Mushrooms, edible

Mutation

Narcissus Pearl of Kent
Jv'atural selection among

plants

•Obituary —

Bisset, James P,

Kenyon, Robert

Kersten, Jan H.
Oncidium coticolor
Origin of species and

varieties by mutation
Palm House, the, at

Edinburgh Botanic

Garden

2G5

PhaIa?nopsis Ludde-

manniana

Photographs showing

the growth of plants
Post-cards, floral
Presentation to a gar-
dener

Propagating hardy

plants

Ramie fibre

Rose show fixtures for

1906

Seeds packed for the

tropics

Spring flowers at Bel-

voir Castle

Strawberry trusses, sup-
porting

Societies —

Horticultural Club ...

Huntingdon Daffodil,.

Manchester and North
of England Orchid..

Midland Daffodil ...

National Auricula and
Primula

National Chrysanthe-
mum

Royal Botanic

Royal Horticultural...

(Scientific Committee)

Selborne

Week's work, the—

Flower garden, the -..

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ...

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...
Wisley Gardens, plants

distributed from
Woodland walks and

drives, beautifying ...

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Anthurium Pcherzerianum w ith contorted spadis

Flowers of Magnolia stellata

Magnolia stellata flowering in the Temperate House,

Kew

Phah-enopsis Luddemanniana flowering from an old

flower scape

Plant-growth recorded by means of photographs
Views in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh (Sup-
plementary Illustration).

259

267
266

265

260
268

205

2G8

265

267

265

270
270

269
265
269
265

263
262
263

262

267
268

267
261

260

259

266

T

THE FLORA OF THE HOLY
LAND.

HE interest shown in the plant of "Ra-
nunculus asiaticus," which I exhibited
at one of the Royal Horticultural Societ)-
meetings in April of last year, must be
my excuse for sending you the following notes.

Owing to the facilities aftorded by various
steamship companies, for yachting cruises in
the Mediterranean, the number of visitors to
Palestine has enormously increased of late.
On the occasion of my last visit two ^ears
ago, some 1,300 people — Soo Americans and
500 English, the latter headed by the .-Xrch-
deacon of London — arrived almost simul-
taneously.

About four weeks ago an American vessel
landed 630 passengers at Jaffa ; who, after
spending the \-ery few days at Jerusalem
allowed by their itincrar\', were hurried off
to Cairo. All through the tourist season large
numbers of "Greek" and "Latin "pilgrims
arrive to visit the holy-places, and to one and
all the apparently endless variety of flowers
growing by the wayside and on the untilled
land, which forms so great a proportion of
Palestine, presents a spectacle which I sup-
pose cannot be surpassed elsewhere in the
world.

The month of March is perhaps the time
when the greatest variety of wild-flowers can
be seen — as immediately the "latter-rains"
have moistened the soil and the warmth of
the sun is felt, the surface of the ground
becomes one lovely mosaic of charming
flowers, in every shade of colour.

On all the hilly country, at least South of
Banias, the Cyclamen latifohum is not only
found growing freely, but in places it covers
the ground, as the Dog Violet does in our
English woods, and almost everv rock has
Cyclamen growing in some crevice or hole.

In many parts of the country the ground is
blue with the lovely dwarf Iris, and side-by-
side are sheets of pink Phlox. All the higher
and hilly tracts abound in Asphodels and
Rock Cistus, &c.

But the flowers that appeal to most visitors,
especially to those who allow themselves time
to go quietly through the country, riding
and camping from place to place, are un-
questionably the Ranunculus asiaticus and
the .Anemone coronaria.

Many travellers have spoken of the flaming
colours of these flowers, as seen completely
carpeting the plain of Sharon. But it is not
merely on this plain, or indeed only on the
lowlands, that the Ranunculus and Anemone
flourish, but practically everywhere, from the
sultry shores of the Lake of Tiberias, about
700 feet below the level of the sea, to the
heights of Carmel and the hills around
Nazareth.

And, so far as my experience goes, the two
plants always grow side-by-side ; one is never
found without the other being close by.

This fact, no doubt to a great extent,
accounts for the confusion between the
Rammculus and the Anemone in the minds of
many travellers. As \ery few ha%e ever seen
a single-flowered Ranunculus in England, it
is quite natural that the name " Anemone "
should be given alike to both, especially as —
except in a few localities — the prevailing
colour of both is almost the same shade of
deep red. The form of the flowers, and the
size of the flowers also, is generally similar —
in fact it is only on close examination that the
ordinary traveller would discover that the
Anemone is alwaj-s wanting in the calyx,
which is so distinguishing a feature of the
Ranunculus.

There are, of course, other real differences.
The lovely shades of colour in the Anemone,
varying from a pure white to deep mau\e, and
found in comparati\'ely few districts, are never
seen in the Ranunculus ; and on the other
hand the rare tints of bronzy yellow, some-
times seen in the Ranunculus, are never dis-
played in the Anemone. Then again, the
Anemone is ahvays two to three weeks earlier in
blooming, but as it remains in flower from the
end of February till the end of March, and the
Ranunculus is in full flower by the third week
of March, they are constantly blooming to-
gether.

The flowers of the Ranunculus which I
exhibited last April do not by any means give
an adequate idea of the beauty of those seen
here. Not only does the locality affect the
colour of the blooms materially, but the depth
of soil has a great influence on their size also.

Around our tents on the hills above Nazareth,
the ground is carpeted with the Ranunculus —
the .\nemone here, at this date, being practically
over — but they are all small, the flower barely
i;l- inch in diameter, and the stalks only 6 to 8
inches high. On Mount Carmel, just across
the plain of Esdraelon. around our last camp-

ing place, flowers fully 4 inches in diameter
were plentiful, borne on stalks 18 to 2.| inches
in length. When such is the case, the boldness
and perfect symmetry of the erectly-borne
blooms is most striking, as maj- be supposed.
The eastern summit of Mount Carmel is
also noted for Anemones varying from pure
white to deep mauve in colour, whereas
throughout the rest of the mountain it is
difficult to find Anemones which have not the
usual deep red colour and generally, but not
always, exhibiting the characteristic band of
white at the base of the petals.

A fine Tulip is also found for a short distance
around the eastern summit of Carmel, flowers
of which I send, with some foliage, that,
however, does not clearly show the twisted
character of the leaves so noticeable in
growth [T. Clusiana] .

If, as is often said, the Ranunculus and the
.Anemone are \ery closely allied, is it not
strange that growing as they do everywhere,
side-by-side, it is impossible to find any in-
stance of a hybrid form between the two ?

In the extremely interesting work brought
out by MM. Lortet & Gaillard, of Lyons,
entitled La Faune Momifice de I'Anciennc
Egyptf, a categorical reply is given to the
problem propounded by Jomard, at the time
of Napoleon's invasion of Egypt, in his
Description de I'EgypU, as follows :— " These
various mummies and fragments of animals,
will one day enable naturalists to tell what
species inhabited Egypt during a very remote
period. Indeed there is no other way of
knowing whether the animals that now thrive
in Egypt are the same as those that thrived
there centuries ago, or to establish the grave
question as to the invariability of essential or
specific forms throughout the ages." Mes-
sieurs Lortet & Gaillard show clearly that the
species embalmed 20, 30 or even 70 centuries
ago, have not changed in the least. The
animals of modern Egypt are found to be
the animals of ancient Egypt. This is com-
mented upon in a very interesting article in
the Egyptian Gazette of February ig last, and
the writer goes on to explain that the absence
of variation between the animals of 6,000
years ago and those of to-day need not be
taken as any evidence against the theory of
evolution, because the environment of animals
in Egypt has throughout remained the same.

The same entire absence of variation may
be shown to exist as regards plants, cereals,
&c., embalmed 6,000 years ago, and those of
to-day.

If this is true of Egypt, we may not un-
reasonably suppose, in the absence of evidence
to the contrary, that the flowers of Palestine
have remained unchanged, and without
variation, during a like period or a very long
period. But there is one essential diff'erence.
The " environment " varies little if at all
throughout Egypt, but in Palestine the soil
and climate of Tiberias and that of Mount
Carmel, 1,500 to 1,600 feet above the sea,
ofler a change of environment which is
certainly considerable. At Tiberias Palms
and tropical plants flourish in the open air,
and the Oleanders are in profuse bloom in
April. On the slopes of Carmel — often sub-
ject to snowstorms and hail — Oaks and Pines
flourish, and yet we find the Ranunculus and
Anemone at home in both environments, and
in neither case can any specific modification
be discovered as a result, nor any approach
to a hybrid form.

Travellers are constantly speculating as to
the identity of the flowers spoken of in Holy

258

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 28, 1906.

Scripture as the " Rose of Sharon," or the
" Lily of the Valley," many supposing the
Anemone or Ranunculus to be the former,
and the dwarf blue Iris to be the latter.
Probably we shall never know with certainty.
As the months of spring and summer follow
each other one flower gives place to another,
and what appears in April to be the " Lily of
the Valley " may be quite eclipsed by a still
more lovely " Lily " flowering in May or June.
Arthur W. Sutton. Na:arcth, in Camp, April 3,
7906.

[With this letter came specimens of Ane-
mone, Ranunculus, Tulipa, Clusiana, Cistus
villosus, C. salvisefolius, &c.]

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

Continued froiJi page ISO.)
A JOURNEY IN EASTERN TIBET.
June S, 790^.— After a week's vexatious delay
and much difficulty in securing transport, we
left Tatien-lu by the South Gate, favoured with
a bright sunny morning. Our caravan consisted
of three riding animals, four pack animals, three
mounted soldiers, half-dozen coolies, a cook, a
missionary friend, and myself. My travelling
companion, Mr. Moyes, a member of the China
Inland Mission, possessed a thorough know-
ledge of the Tibetan language, which was of the
greatest value.

Full of that pleasurable anticipation which
precedes a jou.ney into the unknown, we
rode gaily along, and quickly left Chinese civili-
zation behind. Following the main ro^d to
Batang and Lhassa — a broad but very uneven
road — we soon passed the point where the road
to the Ya-chia-kang branches off, and turning to
the right, we followed the left bank of the torrent
which rises in the Cheh-to pass. For a few miles
our road was some hundreds of feet above the
stream, but ultimately descended to it, and
crossed over by means of a fine new bridge built
of granite and marble. I'rimula Cockburniana,
with orange-red flowers, and 1'. vittata, with
dark red flowers, were abundant by the way-
side, and the steep mountain-sides were gay
with Rhododendrons in many colours. We
crossed and re-crossed the torrent twice by stone
bridges, and once by a rickety wooden bridge,
and reached the scattered hamlet of Cheh-to at
4 p.m.

Cheh-to (alt. 10,750 feet) consists of half-a-
dozen hovels, which do duty as houses, and is
surrounded by bare, treeless mountains. The
narrow bottom-lands were partly cultivated with
wheat and barley ; these were only a few inches
high, so late is the season in these wilds. Our
inn was fair — much better, indeed, than I had
anticipated. Just below the village the torrent
bifurcates, and we followed the left branch.
Looking backward from our inn a magnificent
view of the snow range around Tatien-lu was
obtainable. Many of the peaks are very high,
and no fewer than nine were capped with eter-
nal snow. On many others enormous quantities
of snow lie.

This day we passed the King's so-called
forest, which contains very few trees of any
size, and consists largely of scrub, in which
Rhododendrons — white, pink, red and purple —
preponderated. Near our inr, were several trees
ni a species of I'icea (P. montigena) [see Gar-
deners' Chronicle, Mar. 10, 1908, p. 146, fig. 56],
with bright crimson cones, about \\ inches long,
and just ready for pollination. About a mile
below Cheh-to I noted a number of Pine trees.
They belonged to a two-leaved species, which
has small cones, and is probably new. Just
around the inn Larch was the commonest tree.
Its bright green foliage and drooping habit gave
it a distinctive appearance.

The marshes were yellow with a dwarf
species of Caltha and TroUius ranunculoides.
Flowers other than Rhododendrons were not
plentiful, and I did not collect more than a
score of plants.

June 9. — We left at 6 o'clock and followed the
road which ascends the left bank of the torrent.
For a few miles our path wound along the moun-
tain-side a few hundred feet above the stream.
Rhododendrons, Oaks and various shrubs formed
a dense scrub. On the opposite bank of the river
a few Larch, Abies and Picea occurred, but trees
were scarce. A small yellow-flowered Rhodo-
dendron was perhaps the most conspicuous of
the shrubs. White and pink-flowered Rhodo-
dendrons were abundant, and made a fine show.
About an hour and a half after starting we
passed a house, and soon afterwards descended
to the bed of the stream. The flora was by no
means rich, but we gathered several little herbs
of interest.

Crossing the stream to the right bank by
means of a bridge of logs, the ascent began in
earnest. The road, though broad, was in an
execrable condition, being strewn with large
granite boulders, and was more like the bed of a
torrent than a highway. About half a mile be-
fore reaching the bridge I noted the first plant
of Meconopsis integrifolia. Incarvillea Principis,
Rheum Alexandrae, a species of Iris, and two of
Fritillaria were growing near by.

Snow was lying a thousand feet below the head
of the pass, and the peaks all around were
densely covered, but evidently these were not
snow-clad all the year round. The view from
near the head of the pass was desolate in the
extreme — nothing but snow and bare inhospit-
able cliffs and crags. Alongside the road a
dense scrub of dwarf purple-flowered Rhododen-
dron clothed the mountain-side for a hundred
feet or so above the path until the head of the
pass was reached. I made the pass 14,550 feet,
bearing north and south.

In the descent we passed the skeletons of 11
yak, all recently dead, with their bones picked
clean by vultures and eagles. We saw fully a
hundred of these voracious birds hovering over
and still feeding on the carcases. The vultures
were very bold, allowing us to get within 40
yards of them. They were of large size, grey in
colour, with a lot of white on the wings and
breasts. Flocks of snow-pigeon were also com-
mon.

Immediately on crossing over the pass we en-
countered nine more skeletons, three of which
were horses. These 20 yak and horses, we were
informed, had all perished within the last 10
days ; 13 of them belonged to the caravan of an
official. The animals in this official's caravan
were all commandeered, and no compensation
would be paid to the unfortunate owners. This
system (■' oola," it is called), whilst enabling
officials to travel cheaply, is a heavy tax on the
people living in the vicinity of the main road to
Lhassa, and is partly responsible fur the sparse
population en rozUe.

Descending through moor and bog-land, we
reached the tiny hamlet of Tizou, our halting-
place for the night, at 5.30 p.m. Tizou consists
of three houses situated in a broad valley at an
altitude of 13,000 feet. Our inn was the usual
flat, mud-roofed Tibetan house with rooms very
tiny, dark, and ventilated by a hole in the roof.
They were not particularly clean, but after a
fatiguing day we were glad of shelter of any
kind. Our landlord was Chinese, his wife
Tibetan. This is commonly the case hereabouts,
and the women do all the work.

The flora on the Tizou side of the pass was
very similar to that be3'ond Sungpan. The coun-
try consists of rolling heath-lands. These were
covered with a dense scrub, some 2 to 3 feet
high, composed of several species of Spiraea,

Lonicera, Salix, Berberis, spiny Astragalus,
and a dwarf, prickly Oak. But commonest
of all was a tiny-leaved, purple-flowered Rhodo-
dendron, which takes the place of Heather in
these wilds. One of the Spiraeas was the Siberian
S. laevigata. Save the Rhododendron, none of
these shrubs were in flower ; indeed, the Willows,
Honeysuckles, and other deciduous things were
still leafless. In spite of the altitude, the late-
ness of the season was surprising.

A thousand feet below the head of the pass
Incarvillea Principis was very abundant, its rich
bright crimson flowers being most conspicuous.
A tiny Primula, with rosy-pink flowers, and an
Androsace, with red flowers, carpeted the bogs
and heaths respectively. Fritillaria Roylei,
with variously coloured flowers, was very abun-
dant. Various species of Pedicularis, Anemone,
( lentiana, Corydalis, Primula, Cypripedium
and other terrestrial Orchids occurred in vast
numbers, carpeting miles and miles of the
country with their blue, red and yellow-coloured
flowers. Though rather poor in species, the
country was rich in individuals, and the in-
tensity of their colours was very striking. Near
Tizou was a clump of Larch, otherwise the
country was absolutely treeless.

The climate is much drier on this than on the
Tatien-lu side of the pass. This, and the strong
winds which prevail, accounts for the dwarf and
scrubby nature of the ligneous vegetation.

-\ couple of miles before reaching Tizou we
jiassed a solitary Tibetan house. This and the
one noted early in the day were the only houses
during our 20 odd miles march. These scrub
and grass-clad highlands appear lifeless, and
the stillness was appalling. Yet, after all, the
scene was very much what one's mind conjures
up in relation to this wild and unknown land
of Tibet. I was not in any sense surprised or
disappointed, so closely did the real approxi-
mate to my imaginations.

June 10. — Two of our followers failed to arrive
last night, and we delayed starting in the hope
that they would turn up. About 8 o'clock one
of them arrived, and had a pitiful story to tell
of his experiences. He had passed the night be-
neath the shelter of a cairn of stones, in mortal
dread of wild animals, ghosts and demons. A
snowstorm and a gale of wind had increased his
discomfort.

The second man showed no signs of turning
up, and the only thing we could do was to send
back a couple of mounted soldiers to look for
him. There was nothing to be gained by re-
maining at Tizou all day, and our quarters were
such that we were urged to seek better and more
spacious ones. Having made what arrange-
ments we could in reference to the missing man,
we decided to journey on to An-Tain-pa, lU
miles distant.

Our road wound through a narrow valley
about 500 yards broad, flanked by grass-clad
hills some 2,000 feet high. Huge flocks of yak
and sheep were grazing on these mountain-sides,
and the black tents of the herdsmen nestled in
the valley. One's curiosity to investigate these
tents was checked by the presence of a large
Tibetan mastiff who tugged madly at a chain
and endeavoured to break away and rend us.
The valley was in part heath-like and covered
with scrub, in which the heath-like Rhododen-
dron predominated. Other parts were marshy
and alive with herbs. A stream meanders
through the valley, and Primula Sikkimensis,
P. vittata, and Rheum Alexandrae clothed its
margins.

About three miles from Tizou we crossod the
stream, and from this point onwards the valley
was sparsely cultivated. Wheat was the princi-
pal crop. It looked nice and green, but was
only a couple of inches high. Slate was the com-
monest rock, and the fields were enclosed by

Apeil 28, )90G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

259

walls of this rock or hedges of the wild Goose-
berry. Incarvillea Principis made a grand show
to just below the point of crossing. A dwarf
Androsace, with golden-yellow flowers, covered
acres of moorland. The sun was nearly straight
overhead, and our hands and faces were begin-
ning to peel. We lunched al fresco in this sunny
valley, and after the exertions and fatigue of the
previous day enjoyed basking in the warm sun-
shine. Opposite our halting-place were two or
three Tibetan homesteads, and a couple of octa-
gonal towers, now fast falling into ruins. The
houses were large square structures, with flat
mud roofs and tiny windows — gloomj- and com-
fortless looking places.

Erigercn sp., Caltha sp., and Anemone sp.
PcEonia anomala was also common by the way-
side. The ubiquitous Dandelion was plentiful,
and Adonis coerulea, Astragalus sp., Scopolia
sp., and Fritillaria sp. were noteworthy. Cypri-
pedium tibeticura, with its monstrous " slip-
pers," occurred sparingly on the heath-lands.
Near houses an occasional Poplar was seen, and
on the hill-sides an odd Spruce tree or two.
Patches of scrub-oak were scattered over the
mountain-sides ; but the dwarf Rhododendrons
and long grass covered the larger areas. In the
shingly bed of the stream Ilippophae rham-
noides was abundant. E. H. Wilson.
i,2'u be cotttimted.}

Fig. 107. — PHAL/ENOPSIS LUDDEMANNI.^NA

A, olJ flower stalk; B, original plant; C, young plant produced from flower stalk;
D and E, new flower stalks from old plant.

Continuing our journey through this grassy
valley by the easiest of roads, we reached An-
Tam-pa (alt. 12,200 feet) at 3 o'clock, and we
were courteously received and housed in the resi-
dence of a petty Tibetan chief. The house was a
very large three-storeyed structure, of the usual
Tibetan style. The ground floor was given over
to the horses and cattle, and we occupied good
rooms on the second floor. Prayer-cylinders,
flags, and other emblems of I.amaism aboinided ;
but, in spite of their "heathen" creed, these
simple, unsophisticated children of Nature were
most hospitable and obliging.

The flora hereabouts proved excessively poor
in species, but the meadows were a pretty sight,
being carpeted with purple, yellow and white.
These colours were due to mvriads of flowers of

PHAL.ENOPSIS LUDDEMAN-

NIANA.

It is well-known to Orchid cultivators that some
varieties of Phalsenopsis, especially P. Luddeman-
niana, produce young plants from the old flower-
stems after they have bloomed, the general
practice being to fix the stem upon the surface of
the compost around the parent plant, and when
the young plant has become established to detach
it from the stem, re-pot, and treat it as for the
older examples, .\bout two years ago our plant,
after flowering, was similarly treated ; it soon pro-
duced the young plant, but up to the present time
has not been separated from the parent plant, and,
as will be seen from the illustration at fig. roy, is
again producing flowers from the old flower stem be-

tween the old and the young plants. The specimea
has one other old flower-stem with plant attached,
and the young plant, not detached, is now pro-
ducing three flower-spikes from the base of the
growth. I did not include this in the sketch,
thinking it would appear crowded. The dotted
lines are intended to indicate the top of the pan.
M', H. White, Buyford Gardens, Dorking.

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

THE HOUSTONIAS.
HousTONiA is a genus of North American and
Mexican plants consisting of some 25 species, of
which a few only are in cultivation in Great
Britain, but these comprise practically the best
of the species hardy in our climate , The genus was
named in honour of Dr. William Houston, a noted
botanist, who died in 1733. These flowers belong
to the Natural Order Rubiacea, and are among the
most exquisite of all rock garden plants.

//. carulea. — This species with its congener, H.
serpyllifolia, referred to below, may be said to
comprise the best of the genus. It is scarcely
possible to surpass, among Alpine plants, the
beauty seen in the various forms of this flower,
and it well deserves all the encomiums it has re-
ceived. It develops dense tufts of small leaves,
the lower ones being more or less spatulate in
shape, while those developed from the upper parts
of the stems are oblong in form ; its total height
when in bloom is not more tlian from 4 to 7
inches. The flowers, which are small, are some-
what salver-shaped, and are produced on short
peduncles from the tops of the stems. The in-
florescences are freely developed, the flowering
season being from May to July.

The typical colour of the petals is blue, but
there is a scarcer white variety, which is the more
attractive from the contrast afforded by a yellow
centre.

Unfortunately, this Houstonia is one which can-
not be retained in the garden for any considerable
length of time without attention. One able culti-
vator considers that it should be protected from
wet in winter, and therefore recommends its being
covered during that season. It is. however, from
exhaustion by too free flowering that the losses
of H. coerulea are mainly due. and I have
practised with great ad\antage the advice given
me a number of years ago by an able cultivator,
now passed away, to cut oft all the flower stems
as soon as the bloom is practically over. One
may lose a few flowers by this, but the gain to
the plant is very considerable. It must be ob-
served, however, that it requires to be planted
in a soil composed of sand and leafmould. Another
cause of loss is lack of water in summer, as the
species requires plenty of moisture at the roots,
but at the same time the soil must have sufficient
drainage. Its native habitats in Canada and in
the United States are on wet rocks or in open
grassy places ; thus one of the lower terraces of
the rockery will best suit it. Its popularity in
America is attested by the nature of the common
names it bears. All of these seem in some way
to give an indication of the simple beauty of the
flower ; they are ; Bluets, Innocence. Quaker
Bonnets, Quaker Ladies, and Venus's Pride.

H. purpurea. — This is the tallest of the three
species best suited for our gardens, and it is, at the
same time, the least desirable. Its flowers are
more funnel-shaped than those of H. coerulea. and
are more purplisli or lilac in colour than those
of that species. There are two fairly well-
defined varieties, named respectively calycosa and
pubescens. Its height varies in cultivation, and
the stature generally given of six inches is fre-
quently exceeded. The flowers are . .jorne in
clusters, and, although not so fine as those of
IT. ccerulea or H. serpyllifolia, they produce a

260

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

,..PKiL 28, 1906.

good effect in their season. It is a native of a
more soutliern district than H. coerulea, and
should be kept rather drier in winter than that
species, but in summer it requires plenty of water
when in active growth. It is desirable to cut off
the flower stems after the blooming period is over.
It flowers, as a rule, about the end of May. The
soil recommended for the preceding species is
suitable for this.

H. sevpyllifoUa. — Although smaller in flower and
rather less vigorous in growth than the foregoing,
it is one of the most delightful of our Alpine flowers
alike in the neatness of its habit ; the attractiveness
of its little Thyme-like leaves, whence the specific
name ; and the beauty of its deep blue flowers. It
generally flowers about May, and in its season is
exquisite in its whole character. It does not re-
quire so much moisture as H. coerulea, but it
should on no account sufl'er from drought during
the summer. It should have the same attention
paid in the way of cutting off the flower-stalks.
The popular name is the Thyme-leaved Bluet, and
it is said to be found on the high mountains of the
United States, from Virginia to South Carolina
and Tennessee.

Other Perennial Houstoiiias. — Among the other
perennial Houstonias, none of which is at present
obtainable in this country, the most likely to be
useful is H. angustifolia, which grows a foot or
more high. This species has linear leaves, and
white or purplish flowers developed in dense
clusters, which, while funnel-shaped, spread more
fully when open. Its requirements include a drier
soil than the preceding species, and it is doubtful
if it would be hardy in any but warm localities in
the south. H. ciliolata, from the coasts and rocks
of eastern Canada and a considerable portion of
the Eastern United States, is a dwarf species, from
four to eight inches or so high. Its flowers are
very small, funnel-shaped, and lilac, or pale purple
in colour. H. longifolia, another perennial, has
very small pale purple flowers of the same form as
those of the last-named. It spreads from Ontario
to Manitoba, and in the United States from Maine
to Georgia, and prefers dry positions. It is from
six to ten inches high. With the many more
effective annual flowers at our command there
seems little room for the annual Houstonias in our
gardens. S. Arnott.

THE PROPAGATOR.

MAGNOLIA STELLATA.

This species being of dwarf habit is one of
the most suitable for cultivation indoors. At fig.
108 we have reproduced a photograph taken by Mr.
C. P. RaffiU, which shows that in the Temperate
House, Royal Gardens, Kew, it succeeds perfectly.
Nevertheless it is hardy, and there are good bushes
out of doors at Kew, and in other gardens that
flower as freely as the plant illustrated. Under
any system of cultivation the plants seldom exceed
4 feet in height. Originally known in English
gardens as M. Halleana, the species was first
introduced from Japan, but is thought by Professor
Sargent not to be a native of that country. Plants
introduced by Messrs. Veitch flowered for the
first time in this country at Coombe Wood in
March, 1878, as we learn from the Hortus Vcitchii
just issued. Plants out of doors usually flower
in April, and the flowers, which measure about
3 inches in diameter, are white when fully open,
and the somewhat narrow petals become reflexed.
There is a variety of which the flowers are of
a faint shade of pink. It may be pointed out
that Mr. George Nicholson considers that the best
time to transplant Magnolias is just previous to
the plants bursting into growth, and it is not,
therefore, too late to do this work at the present
date. .In moving a plant it is important that any
injured roots be cut away, or they will continue
to rot. We reproduce the illustration at fig. 109 as
affording a better idea of the flowers and shoots
th.an would be obtained from fig. 108.

HARDY SUBJECTS.

At the risk of stating the obvious, I must
say that this is a busy month for the gardener,
quite as much so as that from which we have
just emerged. The latitude of a place makes
considerable difference, there being northern
shires, and the whole of Scotland (excepting
the south-west, which from the modifying
effects of the Gulf stream are as mild as parts
of southern England), that are from three weeks
to a month later than the counties bordering
on the English Channel, so that that has to be
taken into calculation by the gardener in those
parts, and what may be thought belated infor-
mation by the southerner will be quite in time
in the north as regards seed sowing and propa-
gation by cuttings, layers, and truncheons.

Taking bigger things first, and tho'^e that will

be needed by the seed-pans, etc., beyond an
occasional inspection to ascertain that none gets
dry. A depth of one inch will suffice for the
larger seeds, and a mere sprinkling of soil for
the smaller ones. Some Conifers vegetate in a
few months, some in the spring, and others
during the suinmer, but no seed-pans should
be emptied for a year or longer time. In the
summer they may be stood outside without pro-
tection from the rain.

The acorns or seeds of Oaks may be dibbled
into freshly-dug firm soil, enriched by leaf
mould, placing them at 2 inches apart and 1
inch in depth, treading the surface afterwards.

Providing the acorns are fully developed, but
not fully ripe and dry, they may be stratified
in cold frames several layers deep, and they
will germinate strongly by the advent of March,
and may then be carefully taken out without
causing damage to the radicle and germ, and
planted in linps 4 inches apart, with a 6-inch

ll'hulo by C. r. liufft'l.

Fig. ioS. — magnoli.\ stell.\t.\ floweri.ng in the temper;\te house, roy.\l

g.a.rdens, kew.

as time goes on be considered by the owners ol
gardens as standing before the ephemeral sub-
jects of the day, or the caprice of fashion, as,
for example, Oaks of any species or a splendid
Conifer from California or China, as compar-
able with a tree Carnation, tuberous Begonia, or
a Primrose from China, I will begin with tree
seeds and Conifers first of all.

As regards these for mere garden operations
but few need be raised if there is no nursery
attached to the estate, and sowing in pots and
pans new season's seeds should suffice. Such
common species as Scots, Black Austrian, the
Corsican, and Larch of common kinds are bet-
ter left to the nurseryman, and only the choice
species raised at home. Personally, I would
sow in October or November such as could be
then obtained, and keep the pots and pans in a
pit from which frost is excluded. If loamy soil
and some sand be used, and the seeds sown
rather thinly and watered in, if stood on the
ground or on coal ashes, but little attention will

interval between the lines, leaving them undis-
turbed for two years.

In many gardens, especially in the North,
Willows are much employed for tree fastenings
and basket-making, the young men being taught,
the latter operation by the older men, and thus
filling up their time usefully when work out of
doors might be impossible. The Willow shoots,
for these purposes are grown on stools that
are kept to a height of about 15 inches, which
are grown in lines at a foot, and the lines 2
feet apart. The cuttings, which must consist
of 2-3 year-old wood, may be made from 9
inches to 18 inches long, pointed at the butt
end, or cut square across, the buds -below
ground being cut out. If not pointed, a long
dibber should be employed when planting them.
The smaller growing Willows are grown for
light basket work and tieing, and the stronger
ones for making hampers, creels, lobster pots,
flower sticks, etc. March and April, accord-
ing to latitude, are suitable months for putting

April 28, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

2G1

in the truncheons (cuttings). In the same way
truncheons are made of Elder, Alder, Poplars,
and Mulberry, placing them in their permanent
positions forthwith, or in cutting beds for trans-
plantation when rooted.

Those who care to raise their own supply of
l-Jose-stocks of the Dog Rose may sow the seeds
at this date in beds, preferably in drills drawn
as for Parsley. Some of the plants will appear
the first year, and the remainder the \'ear fol-

Choose fine weather for the work, and smear
grafting wax, "L'Homme Lefort," or place the
usual clay and chaff protection round the point
of union, and if it crack from dryness at once
smear it over with " clay slip."

The seeds of choice Auriculas, Primroses, and
Primula Polyanthus may still be sown, and
treated cool, sowing tbem in pans and shallow
boxes. Seeds of the "tufted" Pansies, Violas,
may be sown this month in the open ground,

slips and division is easy enough. Perhaps a be
ginner will be better advised to buy some varie-
ties that take his fancy, crossing them pro-
miscuously for seeding purposes, or rely on
the above-named methods of propagation lor
increasing his stock of plants. The method of
taking cuttings in September and dibbling these
into cold frames in light sandy soil is a rapid
one of raising a largi number of plants for beds?
and borders. F . M.

Fig. tog. — flowers of m.\gnoli.\ stell.'VT.*. (See text, page 260.)

lowing. Those plaits that are of the thickness
of a crow quill may be transplanted this month
into nursery lines in the later parts of the coun-
try, although, generally speaking, March is the
better month.

The grafting of varieties of ornamental trees
seldom falls within the gardener's province, but
those who wish to graft Beech, Platanus, Oak,
Ash, Lime, as also species of deciduous flower-
ing shrubs, may do so in the present month.

transplanting them into nursery beds as soon
as they have made four true leaves, and select-
ing a moist, partially shady place for the beds.
The true Pansy may be similarly handled, and
if the strain should be a good one man)' beau-
tiful acquisitions may be obtained from seed,
more especially from the large-flowered Conti-
nental varieties. The Violas are sold in in-
finite variety, and once seedlings really worth
growing are obtained their propagation by

NOVEL MODES OF BEDDING.

There is nothing new in beds of white Ice-
land Poppies, but if these are alternated with
pegged-down single magenta-coloured Petunias-
quite a novel efSect will be obtained. The
Petunia may be a small flowering \'ariety ad-
vantageously, as these are very floriferous.

Solanum sisymbriifolium (syn. Balbisii), a
seldom-seen plant, may be recommended for a
lawn bed, with a centre group of scarlet-flowered

2G2

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 28, 190G.

Cannas, and an edging of dwarf scarlet Be-
gonias. This Solanum has not only attractive
flowers, and quaintly spine-encircled berries,
but the foliage is pleasingly cut, resembling
Thistle leaves, while it is, in addition, covered
with dull-red spines.

Arctotis calendulacea is a valuable half-hardy
annual, growing about half a foot high, and
bearing numerous vivid orange-coloured flowers.
On a lawn-bed in full sunshine this plant gives
an unrivalled effect, and whether associated with
groups of white Gladioli, or with single plants
of giant white Asters, it is equally charming.
It is useful, too, for filling the small mounds
of earth beneath Standard Rose trees-
It may be thought that no Calliopsis can be
called uncommon, yet I doubt if many beds show
off the merits of Calliopsis P^ngelmanni, which
has feathery leaves quite unlike those of other
varieties, and which grows to an uniform height
of a foot. I have seen this Calliopsis planted at
intervals of a foot, each plant held erect almost
invisibly by a fine green stake, all over a
round-shaped bed carpeted with the cream-white
Viola Sylvia, with just a narrow edging of
Leptosiphon aureus, and the bed was justly a
most popular one. In addition, it may be re-
marked, this Calliopsis has a golden centre,
and not the usual dark one.

A small bed, and one not of importance, may
well be filled with the Tom Thumb strain of
Clarkia integripetala ; seed of this can only be
bought in mixed colours, I believe, but the
shades all harmonise, and it is easy to obtain a
good show by merely sowing in April, this
annual being such a quick grower.

The annual grass, Hordeum jubatum, will
give an unique effact sown in clumps at intervals
in a bed of scarlet Verbenas or Ivy-leaved Pelar-
goniums ; it can also be employed with the usual
pink Ivy-leaved Pelargonium.

A very dry, sun-scorched, small bed may be
made beautiful with Dianthus cruentus as a
filling, either with or without white Marguerite
Carnations for more height. This Dianthus is
one of the Rock Pinks, is sweetly perfumed,
grows a foot high, and has plentiful scarlet
crimson flowers.

Double snow-white Balsams make a delight-
ful centre mass for a lawn bed, and a belt of
Orange Iceland Poppies around them, the soil
carpeted between the Poppies with Leptosiphon
aureus, or, better still, Violetta " Gold Crest "
will be found an exquisite arrangement.

Quite a rare plant for bedding out in summer
is the biennial Hibiscus "Golden Vase." This
is sometimes grown for greenhouse decoration,
but it will thrive as a bedding plant if not
planted out until the end of May. The excep-
tionally handsome erect habit of the plant
entitles it to more use, and it carries a great
number of large, deep cream-coloured blossoms.
It is a tall grower, being often more than a yard
and a quarter in height. A suitable subject to
associate with it is Nemesia strumosa, as this
shows similar deep cream shades, as well as
others of apricot, orang>e, dull ro-e, and
lavender.

Eryngiums are not often employed in beds,
but the variety Bourgati is eminently suited for
placing at intervals among orange or yellow
coloured flowers of lower growth, such as Violas,
Tagetes pumila, French Marigolds, or yellow
Begonias. Its stems and leaves are quite a
bright steel blue, as are also the flower-bracts.
It grows two feet tall.

Humea elegans alba is a stately specimen
plant for the centres of lawn-beds ; it will
sometimes reach a stature of six feet ; its
feathery white inflorescence has a novel appear-
ance, and its foliage emits a pleasmg perfume.
It looks well rising from a bed of double scarlet
Zonal Pelargoniums. M. J .

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W.H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrencf,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Dindrobiums. — Strong growing Dendrobiums as
D. Dalbousieanum, D. fimbriatum, D. clavatuin.
D. calceolus, D. moschatum. &c., should be grown
in pots, and they will make roots freely in a com-
post of fibrous peat three parts, and sphagnum
moss one part, with a free addition of broken
crocks. After repotting is done, a sufficient
number of the tallest growths should be tied to
neat stakes to hold the plant firmly in position.
The evergreen or raceme-flowering section, as
D. thyrsiflorum, D. densiflorum, D. suavissimum,
D. chrysotoxum. D. Farmed, &c., also the rare
hybrid D. illustre. are now commencing to show
their flower-buds, and in order to assist them to
develop their spikes, the plants should be afforded
rather more water at the roots, and a warmer
atmosphere than that of their growing quarters.
The distinct hybrid D. Dalhou-nobile should
receive the same treatment. D. Brymerianum,
with its golden yellow coloured flowers and beauti-
fully fringed lip, requires a rather moist atmosphere,
and, as red spider frequently infests the foliage,
should be frequently syringed well up under the
leaves. These two sections of Dendrobium should
be repotted, if necessary, when the new growths
are several inches long, but it is not always ad-
visable to cut away any of the back bulbs that are
not dead, as some of them will continue to produce
flowers for some years to come, even if they
remain leafless. The distinct varieties of D.
superbum are well worth growing, especially D. s.
Huttoni, which has pure white sepals and petals,
the centre of the labellum being a dark, rich shade
of purple; D. s. Burkei, with flowers of nearly
flesh colour, and the rare D. s. Dearei, which has
pure white flowers. The plants having a naturally
pendulous habit, it is advisable to suspend them
to the roof of the house, and for this purpose
the ordinary flower-pots, with suitable copper-
wire handles attached, are preferable to shallow-
pans or baskets. Such species as D. Jamesianum,

D. infundibulum, D. Kingianum, D. Wattianum.

E. subclausum, D. glomeratum, D. lingua?forme,
and D. teretifolium require an atmospheric tem-
perature a few degrees warmer than that of the
Odontoglossum house. The two latter species
thrive best when fastened to teak wood rafts, and
suspended in a very light position. The recently
imported plants of D. albo-sanguineum should
ha\e their roots placed in crocks only, and be
kept in an atmosphere of intermediate temperature
until growth is apparent, when the plants should
be repotted and placed in a more genial atmos-
phere.

Shading willi flour and water. — At this time of
the year we take the opportunity at Burford,
whenever the weather is suitable, to lightly stip-
ple the roof glass of the houses outside with
a mi.xtiire of ordinary house flour and water,
making it to the consistency of very thin paint,
and put it on the glass as thinly as possible,
using an ordinary paint brush for the purpose.
When such a mixture has been applied the glass
remains perfectly cool to the touch, even when
strong summer sun is shining directly on it,
and this is certainly not the case when paint or
other minerals have been used. Previous to using
the mixture it is necessary to see that the glass out-
side is made perfectly clean and dry, and that there
is no water lodging in the laps ; the glass must
also be quite dry on the inside. The best time
for the work to be done is when the sun shines
directly on the roof, so that the mixture will dry
quickly on the glass. During the operation the
plants should either be removed, or be covered
with light tiffany or other suitable material. By
adopting this method I find that plenty of dif-
fused light can reach the plants, and at the same
time the sun is pre\ented from scorching them.
The cultivator is also the better enabled to prevent
extreme fluctuations in the atmospheric tempera-
tures and therefore to keep the conditions of the
houses more in harmony with the requirements
of the plants. Another great gain is that the
plants receive far more natural heat from the sun
than they do when the blinds are drawn from
early morning until evening. Even during the
hottest days of the year the blinds need not be let
down nearly so early in the morning as when the
glass is clear, and they may be drawn up several
hours earlier in the afternoon. By the autumn
the whitening on the glass becomes worn and

thin, thereby allowing a gradual increase of sun-
light to reach the plants, which is greatly beneficial
in bringing about the maturation of growth.
In the Odontoglossum house where the open
lattice wood blinds are in use, and where they are
elevated six or eight inches above the glass, this
kind of shading is extremely valuable, for when
the blinds are down on hot, sunny days, a very
cool and equable atmosphere within the house is
easily maintained. The weather during the past
two seasons has afforded a capital test for this
kind of shading, and at Burford the results have
been quite satisfactory so far as the majority of
the Orchids are concerned, especially for the large
number of species and varieties in the East Indian
house, also for Dendrobiums, Cattle.yas, Laelias,
Cypripediums, and Odontoglossums.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. \V. BiiiKiNSHAW, Gartluiiur to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Ha.milton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfoidsliire.

Vines and Peaches Xi'ith bordcis out-of-doors. — These
should be attended to, and if the top soil
appears to be at all sour let it be removed, and in
its place apply a compost of turfy-loam, wood-
ashes, and a little Peruvian guano. Next afford a
good watering with a rose can, to settle the soil,
and cover the borders with a mulch of manure
obtained from a spent Mushroom-bed, which will
help in retaining the moisture, and in preventing the
soil from cracking, as otherwise it would do under
bright sunshine. I have found out that such
cracking is liable to injure the small fibrous roots.

Figs. — The fruits on the earliest pot-trees are
now approaching to the ripening stage. In order
to enable them to finish pertectly, afford them
warm liquid manure and Peruvian guano on alter-
nate occasions. The atmospheric temperature at
night may be raised to 6a* ; maintain the atmo-
sphere always in a moist condition by syringing
the trees each morning and afteinoon. Attend to
the stopping and regulation of the shoots, so that
the fruits may be the better exposed to the influ-
ences of the sun and light, which will greatly
improve their flavour and colour. Admii air when
the atmospheric temperature rises above 70", and
increase it according to degree ol sunshine ; close
the house early in the afternoon after syringing,
and damp down with a little manure-water. When
the fruits show signs of ripening let the use of
artificial foods be discontinued, and keep the
atmosphere a little cooler and drier, but the roots
of the trees will need to be kept moist by the use of
clear water. The borders of old-established trees
should be given a mulch of horse-mauure, which will
assist them in swelling their fruits. Be careful to
supply the borders with water as often as this is
necessary, and if roots are plentiful liquid manure
may be freely applied. Stop the shoots at the
fifth leaf, and remove any weakly growtlis, which
will prevent overcrowding.

PciM''i)i«. -*- These have made good progress
during the present month, and the Grapes are
commencing to colour. More ventilation will now
be required in the house, and plenty of Clearwater
at the roots of the trees. Allow the lateral growths
to extend more than hitherto, and they will aftbrd
a natural shade to the bunches. Keep the foliage
clean from red-spider by hand-spongmg.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton TiMirfls, Esq.,
Cleveley, AUerton, Liverpool.
Plitmbago rosi'a coccinca. — This useful variety
of an old and well-known plant is not cultivated
so extensively as its merits deserve, for it will
flower during the whole of the winter months.
It possesses a free branching habit, and pro-
duces long panicles or sprays of flowers admir-
ably suited for dinner table decoration, for
although they do not long remain fresh when in
a cut htate, the freedom with which they are
produced ensures an abundance of sprays for
replenishing. Cuttings should be secured at
once, and are best taken from the young
growths, but if large plants are desired, the old
stock plants should be repotted, removing a
portion of the i.)ld soil in the process and reduc-
ing some of the strong roots. The growths
should be trained to stakes during the summer
months, and the plants given a place in an
intermediate temperature, but they should be
transferred during their flowering period to a
house in which Melons have been grown. The
shoots can then be trained to wires on the roof,
where the plants are seen to the best advantage.
As a potting medium, use a mixture of fibrous
peat and leaf-mould, with some sand and a

Ai'RU. 2H, IBOfi ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

2G3

small portion of loam. Use the syringe freely
among the plants during hot weather.

Carex variega/d.— This pretty foliage plant, if
grown in small 60 pots, will be found useful for
decorative purposes. The recurving leaves have
a graceful appearance, a clear white stripe run-
ning through their centre. Propagation of the
plants is effected by division, for each piece
detached with a little root will grow quickly, if
placed in a moist position in the stove. A large
proportion of sand should be used in the pot-
ting compost, which must not be of too rich a
nature, otherwise the variegation will not be
pronounced.

Ricliardias.—Vlants that have finished flower-
ing should, providing the weather is genial, be
placed out of doors m the full sunshme : at the
same time gradually reduce the supply of water
at the roots so as to thoroughly ripen tiie growth.
If the plants are to be kept in their pots, these
should be placed on their sides until ;.^rowths
start again about July.

Salvias. — These plants must not be allowed
to become root-bound in their present stage of
growth, and should forthwith be transferred into
6-inch pots, affording every encouragement to
induce free growth. When the roots have per-
meated the new soil, the pinching out of the
points of the shoots should be continued to
promote a bushy growth. A few plants grown
as standards are always attractive in the warm
conservatory in the winter months. Maintain
a moist atmosphere by the free use of the
syringe, keeping the plants close to the glass in
a temperature of 55" to 60".

General Remarks. — If old stools of Poinsettias
were treated as advised in the Calendar of
March 24, an early batch of cuttings will soon
be available. Follow the instructions contained
in that note as to propagation. The earliest
section of show Pelargoniums will now be show-
ing their flowering spikes. Afford the plants
manure water at least twice a week, w-ith an
application at intervals of some good fertiliser.
Before they break into flower, see that the plants
are free from insect i>ests, affording light and
frequent fumigations, which are the more
economical in the end.

THE FLOWER GAKDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Paved Walks. — In many gardens — particularly
old-fashioned gardens — walks laid with flat pav-
ing stones are often seen, their every form
clearly outlined by small fluwering plants, Ferns,
and Mosses, which, together with the weathered
greyness of the stone and informal tracery of the
paving, give a very pleasing impression. Where
the o; portunity pie-ents itself their leproduction
is well wor h the necessary trouble and expense,
but It must be in a position where they
will be appropriate and consistent w-ith the sur-
roundings, and they should be used for a special
purpose, such as a walk near the house or to
create a feature in a particular part of the gar-
den. In making new paths of this description
it is advisable to use only sufficient cement to
keep the stones firm, according to the extent it
is intended to use the walk. The stones should
be broken into all shapes to prevent any idea
of design, and in laying them spaces an inch
wide should be left between them, while here
and there irregular spaces three or four inches
in extent might be contrived with advantage.
To complete the walk, and to make it ac-
ceptable to the plants, it is so desirable to en-
courage for future effectiveness, fill up the cre-
vices and chinks between the stones with leaf
mould, which is particularly suitable as a root-
ing medium for this class of plant, taking care
to ram it in firmly. There are numerous plants
which are singularly adapted for adorning these
paved walks. Among the foremost that occur
to my mind are the beautiful little Linarias,
amongst which the common British Ivy-leaved
Toadflax ff^. cymbalaria), with its graceful
creeping habit and pretty flowers, is not the
least delightful. L. pilosa and L. pallida, with
large, conspicuous, purple blossoms, but with
dwarf trailing habit, grow well in such posi-
tions, while L. alpina and L. alpina rosea
flourish in the moister parts of the walk, where
they sow themselves readily. All the Linarias
are raised easily from seed, which should be
sown now, and once established it will be found
that they sow themselves freely. Another excel-
lent subject for this kind of work is Mentha
Requieni, a small creeping plant, thickly set with

minute dense foliage, having a delightful pep-
permint odour, which is quickly detected when
stepped upon. It is very easily propagated by-
breaking It up into small pieces and inserting
them in boxes of leaf-mould, and, when planted
between the paving, they spread raoidly. The
Sandworts, especially Arenaria balearica, are
splendid jjiants for the paved walk, this pretty
little plant, with its countless miniature, starry
flowers in spring, soon leaves the leat-mould,
and completely covers the whole breadth of
stone that it is near. Like the Mentha, it is
readily increased by division, and is very easy to
grow. The Violet Cross (lonopsidium acaule)
IS another charming little plant eminently suited
for growing in these chinks. It flowers six or
seven weeks from sowing, and afterwards sows
itself freely, reappearing year after year. If
sown at the present time it will flower in
June, and will last a considerable period in
beauty, then seed, and fresh seedlings will give
a late autumn display. It is a small Portuguese
annual, about 2 inches high, with dense tufts
of violet-coloured flowers. Grammanthes gen-
tianoides, a pretty half-hardy annual, having
orange-coloured flowers when first expanded,
but which become deep red when fully opened,
is another. It is about 2 inches in height, and
of tufted habit. This, when used on the paved
walks, should be planted to the sides, where
there is less likelihood of its fleshy leaves being
bruised by the feet. This also applies to the
Portulacca and several of the .Sedums, which
might very well be used. Several of the small
growing Campanulas may also be planted in
such walks.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W'. .\. Cook, (jardener to Sir Khmi'M) G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Disbudding Fcach and Nectarine Trees. — Many-
trees will now be sufficiently advanced to ad-
mit of their being disbudded. In disbudding
take away all foreright and useless shoots, and
see that a strong "break" is left at the base of
each remaining shoot, for these will form the
fruiting branches of the following season. Leave
at the apex of each growth a suitable leader,
which, if not required, may be pinched back at
a later period. In the case of younger trees,
as many growths should be left as are requi-
site to fill the space of the wall, taking care,
however, not to train more w-ood than the tree
can properly mature. In all cases distribute
the growths evenly and thinly, in order that
the wood may become thoroughly ripened. Do
not hesitate to remove any non-bearing branches
whose place will be more profitably occupied
by new growths. It is at this season of the
year that overcrowding of the branches becomes
apparent, and as crowded trees are harbourers
of insect pests, and develop puny fruits and
unripened branches, the importance of proper
thinning of the growths cannot be too deeply
impressed. Disbudding should not all be per-
formed at one time, but the trees should rather
be gone over three times, taking away the
strongest leads first.

Insect Pests. — Keep a sharp look-out for aphis
and red spider. A suitable insecticide is a little
sulphur mixed with milk. This should be
sprayed on the under surface of the foliage,
espeiia'ly during sunny weather. As the leaves
have not yet covered the walls from the suns
rays, the bricks get very hot, and thus red spider
is soon developed. If the sulphur mixture is
applied several times, especially on the bittom
of the wall, the fumes will rise amongst the
foliage. Apply the spray at a temperature of
from 70° to 75^', and never on any account use
cold water to the tender foliage of these trees.

Thinning the Fruit. — This should be com-
menced at an early stage, removing first all
fruits that are in unsuitable positions. By thin-
ning early the remaining fruits are benefited,
and sw-ell more quickly.

Figs. — These trees are now rapidly starting
into growth, and should frost appear imminent
a temporary protection must be afforded them.

h'cuilv-grafted trees should be sprayed with
lukewarni, soft water, especially now we are ex-
periencing such dry weather and hot sunshme.
As soon as the scions commence to grow, place
a small stake in the ground and tie the young
shoots as soon as they are long enough. A
good plan in the case of seedling stocks is to
drive a strong stake into the ground at each end
of the row, and then tie a Bamboo cane across,
tying the smaller stakes to this cross one.

Watering. — Attend to the watering of trees on
south walls, and also in the case of newly-
planted trees in other positions. Many trees
suffer at this season of the year from an in-
sufficient supply of moisture. The rainfall of
March was below the average, and up to the
present (April 18th) no rain has fallen during
the present month. Therefore, on soils of a
light nature, many trees will require moisture
applied to their roots. An abundant display of
blossom is seen on all kinds of fruit trees, and,
should we escape frosts, there should be large
crops. In these gardens 8° of frost was regis-
tered on the I4th inst., and 3° and 5" respec-
tively en succeeding mornings, but as the con-
ditions were very clry little damage resulted.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By j. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Uuke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Planting out Onions. — Onions raised from seed
sown during the early part of the year will now
be fit to transplant into the open ground. Fork
the soil again before planting, and, to obtain
the largest-sized bulbs, place the rows at least
15 inches apart, allowing a foot between the
plants in the rows. With a spade dig suitable
holes to receive the seedlings, and lift them with
as large a ball as is possible, planting them
about an inch deep, sufficient to make them
firm in the ground. -Vpply water immediately
after planting. During fine afternoons apply
copious syringings of clear water to encourage
quick growth, and keep the soil well loosened
between the lines with the hoe. When the
bulbs begin to swell apply a topdrcssing of spent
manure from a mushroom bed, and give a
dressing of soot and a sprinkling of nitrate of
soda once a fortnight.

Leeks and Celery. — Crops of these vegetables
intended for early supplies or for exhibition pur-
poses will also be ready for transplanting in
the open ground, and no better system can be
followed than that of planting in trenches made
2 feet wide and the same in depth. Place the
plants 12 inches apart in single lines. A little
shelter may be necessary during cold nights
until they become established. Water the plant;
w-ell to begin with, and spray them daily with
clear water when the weather is fine.

Main Crop Celery. — The seedlings should now
be transplanted into frames, and before they arc
too large and their roots become matted to-
gether, for this often causes " bolting," which,
however, can easily be avoided by timely at-
tention. Much success depends on the plants
being removed with large balls when taken
from the frames for their final planting, and to
secure these place 4 inches of well-rotted cow
dung on a hard bottom of ashes, with 2 inches
of soil on the surface of the manure. Place
the plants from 4 to 6 inches apart. The roots
will soon ramify through the whole compost,
and when lifted later with the trowel will
receive but the slightest check. Keep the
atmosphere of the frame close for a few days,
after which gradually harden the plants, and
allow them to grow as slowly as possible con-
sistent with healthy growth.

Kunner Beans. — The first sowing out of doors
can now be made with a fair prospect of safety.
Select a piece of well trenched land, where the
roots can easily secure food and moisture,
which are essential points in the successful cul-
ture of these plants. Sow in a double line very
thinly, allowing at least 9 feet between the rows,
using the intervening space for growing some
other light crop. Great improvements have
been matie in the varieties of this vegetable, and,
with Veitch's Hackwood Park Success and .Sut-
ton's Best of All, fine crops of good quality can
easily be secured. But the newer selection of
Messrs, Carter's Scarlet Emperor has eclipsed
any I have tried, both in quality and in fruitful-
ness, and much credit is due to the raiser, Mr.
Lye, of Sydmonton Gardens.

Vegetables in Frames. — The recent sunny wea-
ther "has suited all kinds of vegetables in frames,
and there should be no lack of supply from
now onwards, and until the early crops are
available out of doors. The shelter of un-
heated frames is of the greatest advantage in
gardens at this season. But how poorly they
are provided in many places goes without say-
ing. The flavo'cr and tenderness of vegetables
in cold frames arc quite equal to that of those
cultivated in the ooen, and with their help the
-eason is advanced by ct least two months.

264

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 28, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
fur naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Commumiations should be wkitten on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will twt be
printed, but hept as a guarantee of good faith.

.Special Notice to Correspondents.— r/ic Editor does not
undcitake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
u'^fnnsible for any opinions expressed by his correspotutents.

Illustrations.- r;i£ Editor will be glad to receive andlo select
/^hologiaplis or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for lossor injury.

Hev,spapers.—Correspotulents sending neti'spapcrs should be
careful to mark the paragrapJis they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige bysemiingto
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of a ny matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR MAY.

TUESD.W,

May

WEDNESDAY,
THURSDAY,

May
May

SATURDAY,

May

WEDNESDAY,

May

SATURDAY,

May 1

MONDAY,

May:

TUESD.\Y,

May:

WEDNESD.AY,

May

SATURDAY, M

ay 19-

TUESD.-VY,

May

THURSDAY,

FRIDAY,

SATURD.AY,

May
May
May-

MOND.'iY,

May

TUESDAY,

May

WEDNESDAY,

May

THURSDAY,

May

( Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.
1 1 National Amateur Gard. Assoc.
( meet.

2 Croydon Flower Show.

3 Linnean Soc. meet.
- f Soc. Fran9. d'Horl. de Londres
'^ \ meet.

iRov. Caledonian Hort. Soc. Show
iii Waverley Market, Edin-
burgh (2 days).
12 Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet.
,.r United Hort. Ben. & Prov. Soc.

1 Com. meet.
15 Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.
,„ ( Roy. Bot. Soc. Show at Regent's
IS 1 Park.
-21 Paris Exhibition,
nn ( Devon County Agric. Soc. Show
i at Tavistock (2 days).

24 Linnean Soc. meet (Anniversary) .

25 Roy. Bot. Soc. meet.

26 Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meet.
„„ ( Ann. meeting and Dinner of Kew
•-° t Guild at Holborn Restaurant.

( Roy. Hort. Soc. Show in the

29 - Temple Gardens, Thames Em-
( bankment (3 days).
I British Gardeners' Assoc, annual

30 ] meeting of members at Essex
[ Hall, Essex St., Strand.

Bath and West and Southern

31 { Counties Soc. Show at Swindon
days).

(Bath

l\ Co

(. (5t

AVEKAGE Temperatuke for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 50-9°.

Actual Temperatures:—

Lo^iDon.— Wednesday, April 25 (6 P.M.) : Max. 60° ; Min.
38°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, April 2t)
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.7; Temp., 46* ; Weather—
Dull, with cold winds.

VROVmex^.— Wednesday, April 25 (6 p.m.): Max. 4T
South-west coast of Ireland ; Min. 42° Liverpool.

SALESd

WEDNESDAY—

Sale of Palms, Japanese Irises, Alsopliila, &c., at
Stevens's Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden, W.C.
Herbaceous and Border plants, Begonias, Gladiolus,
Palms, Ferns, Rhododendrons, &c., at 12.; Aspidistras,
Dwarf trees, &c., at 5, by Protheroe & Morris, at 67
& 68, Cheapside, E.C.

FRIDAY-

Importedand Established Orchids from various sources,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C.

A second edition of Dr. De Vries'
Mutations, notable book on the Origin of

Species and Varieties by " muta-
tion" has been issued, and may be had from
Kegan Paul, Trench, Triibner and Co.
Lamarck is reported to have said that the
origin of species is a natural phenomenon,
Darwin that it is an object of inquiry, whilst
De Vries goes a step further and says it is
an object of experimental investigation, thus
•extending the significance of the closing sen-
tence of Linnaeus' Philosophia Botanica,

" In scientia naturali principia veritatis obser-
vationibus confirmari debent." The ordinary
notion is that species have been evolved from
previous species by slow degrees. De Vries,
on the contrary, says that they are produced
from existing forms by sudden leaps, thus
reversing the dictum of the great Swede :
" Natura non facit saltus." Gardeners arc
familiar with the production of "sports," but
generally attach no idea of permanence to
them ; but De Vries has proved that some of
these variations not only occur suddenly, but
that they can be, and are, reproduced by seed,
and thus become as " constant " as ordinary
species growing under unchanged conditions
are, or are said to be. A "mutation" may
thus give origin quite suddenly to what is
for all practical purposes a new species.
Observation, and especially experimental de-
monstrations, are required to confirm these
views, and these have been furnished, not
only by De Vries hitnself, but by Dr. Mac-
Dougal, the editor of the present volume,
and by others. Dr. MacDougal says that the
experiments carried out in the New York
Botanic Garden corroborate the conclusions
of De Vries in all important particulars.

The existence of these " mutations " and
their occasional reproduction are beyond dis-
pute, but to what extent they are sufficiently
constant as to be considered of specific value
remains to be proved on a large scale by
independent observers. Various other pro-
blems await solution, such as the reasons
why "mutation" apparently occurs in parti-
cular species only, and not in others, and why
thev only occur at a particular time or stage
of growth.

In the case of the twisted teasels, Professor
Vries says that he has succeeded by selection
in securing a race producing at least 34 per
cent, of twisted steins. Several years ago
the Amsterdam Professor was good enough
to send us .seeds of his contorted teasels,
which w ere sown in the garden. The plants
come up each year, but quite free from any
twist. The plants flower, and the seeds are
spontaneously dispersed ; seedlings come u|)
abundantly, but no contortion was observcl
till the summer of 1905, when, by cutting out
the central growing point and by " pinch-
ing " most of the tips of the " laterals " as
they were produced, we succeeded in indnclng-
one of the many to become twisted.

Alluding to the practices followed by gar-
deners in selecting and raising new varieties,
Dr. De Vries points out that only a few ol
tlie horticultural novelties are real " muta-
tions," though they do occur from time to
time (i3. 608). The oldest case of the kind is
the cut-leaved variety of Chelidonium majus,
the history of which is detailed. This comes
true from seed, and has been known to do so
for generations, hence by some it is con-
sidered to be a species. It is, however, no-
where found in a wild condition, on which
account many botanists, we imagine, would
consider it as a garden variety only. We men-
tion this to show the difference of opinion
that may quite legitimately be held as to the
precise status of any particular form, species,
variety, state, mutation, or what not.

Incidentally, we find a practical illustration
of the Mendelian law. A dwarf variety of
Saponaria calabrica was observed. The
characteristics were observed in the next
generation, but in the third the dwarfed con-

dition was no longer apparent, and the plants
were thrown away as valueless. According
to our present conceptions we should expect
that this plant was of hybrid or crossed
origin, and that in subsequent generations
the progeny would have separated into one-
fourth dwarfs and three-fourihs normal speci-
mens (p. 613), and that gradually the dwarf-
ness would have become so dominant as to
be practically fixed. Numerous illustrations
of sports which originated suddenly as cut-
leaved trees, as also pendulous and fasliglale
varieties, are mentioned, and many similar
instances, familiar enough to gardeners as
" sports," but which have not generally been
considered as starting points for new species.
Weeping Ashes, Cactus Dahlias, and crested
Cyclamens, for instance, would hardly be
accorded specific rank ; although this is very
much a question of interpretation and of
individual opinion.

Alluding to the work of Lulhcr Burbank,
Dr. De Vries, a much more trustworthy wit-
ness than some other eulogists have been,
says that " his methods are hybridisation and
selection in the broadest sense and on the
largest scale." So far, unless in their extent,
the methods do not difl'er from those in com-
mon use. " One very illustrative example of
his methods must suffice to convey an idea
of the work necessary to produce a new race
of superlative excellence. Forty thousand
Blackberry and Raspberry hybrids were pro-
duced and grown until the fruit matured.
Then from the whole lot a single variety was
chosen as the best. It is now known under
the name of ' Paradox.' All others were
uprooted, with their crop of ripening berries,
heaped up into a jjile twelve feet wide, four-
teen feet high, and twenty-two feet long, and
burned. Nothing remained of that expensive
and lengthy experiment except the one parent
plant of the new variety. Similar selections
and similar amount of work have produced
the famous Llums, the Brambles, and the
Blackberries, the Shasta Daisy, the Peach
Almond, the improved Blackberries, the hy-
brid Lilies, and the many other valuable fruits
;ind garden flowers that have made the fame
of Burbank and the glory of horticultural
California." So far, the few Burbank pro-
ductions which have reached our shtires have
hardly warranted the enthusiastic praise be-
stowed upon them, but the climatal conditions
of California are so different from our own
that this is no matter for surprise. The
wholesale destruction of records and evidence
above referred to is, from a scientific point of
view, to be greatly deplored ; from a practiciil
standpoint it would, judging from what
has been previously stated, have probably
been better had some of the cremated ones
been allowed a longer period of e-vistcnce
wherein to develop their latent characteristics.
But from the huge numbers dealt with it is
obvious that this could not be done.

Dr. De Vries' lectures are full of facts and
inferences deserving the most careful consi-
deration, and they are placed before the reader
in so lucid a manner that his book will be
read with pleasure by all interested in the
fascinating subject of plant-breeding. The
final sentence is worth quoting as expressing
the views of many of our naturalists :
" Natural selection ma)' explain the survival,
but it cannot explain the arrival, of the
fittest."

April 28, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

265

Our Supplementary Illustration. — The

portion of the Pahn House in the Botanic Garden,
Edinburgh, shown in the supplementary ilhis-
tration, was built between the years 1856 and 1858,
when the late Professor J. H. Balfour occupied
the chair of Botany. In the Transactions of the
Botanical Society of Ediiibuygh for 1858 are stated
the following dimensions : Length 96 feet 6 inches,
width 57 feet, and height 70 feet 6 inches. This
house became a necessity at that time owing to
the specimen Palms having outgrown the Palm
House then in existence and which still forms
a part of the present house, although it cannot be
■seen in the illustration. The house is not strictly
•confined to the cultivation of Palms, although it con-
tains some large specimens of Livistona chinensis,
Archontophoenix Cunninghamiana, and Cocos
tlexuosa, all about 50 or more feet in height,
as well as many others not requiring a strictly
tropical atmosphere. A fine plant of Dacrydium
cupressinum about 40 feet high is conspicuous,
its gracefully drooping branches being most
decorative. Large plants of Phyllocladus tricho-
monoides, Agathis robusta, and A. australis are
.also prominent features, while Bamboos, Tree
Perns, Dracaenas and others help to furnish the
lower parts of this structure. The illustration of
the pond conveys a good idea of its shape, which
is almost that of a half circle. It is of a formal
outline, the margin of one side being converted
into stone boxes for the reception of submerged or
bog plants. In these boxes are grown such plants
as irises of kinds Alisma Plantago, Calla palustris,
Ranunculus flammula, Typhas, and mrny others.
On the bank immediately behind the pond are
moisture-loving plants such as Primula sikkimensis.
P. grandis, and P. denticulata, Helonias bullata,
Gunnera manicata, G. scabra, Spirae, Saxifraga
aquatica, S. peltata, and many others flourish here.
At each end of the pond upon the banks are groups
of Phormium tenax and its varieties. These thrive
•well, and the type flowers and produces seed
annually. On the bank thrown up by the exca-
vation of the pond is a large group of Irish Yews,
while double-flowering Gorse occupies the face of
ihe bank reaching to the edge of the water.

HoRTUs Veitchii. — Under this title we have
received a copy of what is in every way a remark-
able production. It is not only a history of the
Veitchian firm and its doings but a very sub-
stantial contribution to the history of Horticulture
from before the middle of the oiineteenth century.
We shall take an early opportunity of referring
more at length to this sumptuous volume.

Royal Horticultural Society. — The next
meeting of the Committees will be held on Tues-
day, May I, in the Society's Hall, Vincent Square.
Westminster. A lecture on " Phenology as an
aid to Horticulture," illustrated by lantern slides,
will be given by Mr. E. M.\wlev, V.M.H., at
3 o'clock p.m.

Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institu-
tion.— The " Geo. Monro Concert Committee"
has forwarded a donation of £10 10s. to this institu-
tion, being part proceeds of the recent successful
concert held under their auspices at the Queen's
Hall. Langham Place. London.

Horticultural Club. — The next house
dinner of the club will take place on Tuesday,
May 1. 1906, at 6 p.m., at the Hotel Windsor,
when Professor Farmer, F.R.S., has kindly
promised to talk about " Parasitism." Amongst
the guests on this occasion will be Colonel Prain,
the Director of the Royal Gardens, Kew, and
Captain W. E. O'Connor. C.I.E.. whose name
will be remembered for his heroism in the recent
expedition to Tibet.

Nurserymen as J. P. — Mr. T. H. Harraway,
nurseryman and seedsman of some thirty years'
standing in Warminster, has been appointed
Chairman of the Urban District Council.

Oncidium concolor. — Messrs. Stanley &
Co., of Southgate, obligingly furnish us with a
photograph of a well-grown specimen of this
Orchid. 'Visitors to a recent show in Vincent
Square will remember a group of this brilliant
yellow Oncidium, evidencing superior cultivation,
shown by the same firm.

Presentation. — Mr. J.Jones, who for twenty
years has occupied the position of gardener at
Terrace House, Southampton, has been appointed
Gardener and Steward to Miss Seymour. Knoyle
House, Wilts. Mr. Jones has been for eighteen
years a much respected member of the Council of
the Southampton Royal Horticultural Society.
His removal is much regretted by his colleagues,
who, to mark the great esteem in which Mr. Jones
was held, decided to present him with a handsome
timepiece. The presentation was made by the
Mayor of Southampton at a farewell supper, held
at the Star Hotel, High Street, on the 17th inst.

Country in Town Exhibition. — Last year
we called attention to an interesting project in
the shape of a " Country in Town " Exhibition,
and it has now been definitely decided to open
it in the Whitechapel Art Gallery, from July 5th
to the 19th. Earl C.\rrington is the President,
and Mr. J. C. Medd, Chairman of the
Executive Committee, while Canon B.\R-
NETT, of Toynbee Hall, is the Treasurer,
and Mr. Wilfred Mark Webb (of the Sel-
borne Society) Honorary Secretary. The exhi-
bition will consist of five sections. In the
first will be living things, such as plants which
have been, or might be, grown in London and
in London schools, aquaria, vivaria, and bee-
hives. Pictures and models from London' and
other urban centres will come into a second
division and show the planting of streets and
open spaces, children's gardens and play-
grounds, town gardens, garden suburbs, and
railway embarJiments. The third section will
be given over to material and appliances. The
fourth will consist of plans specially drawn up
for the improvement of certain areas in London,
while the last will deal with city life in Japan
and other countries. As no charge will be
made for admission to the exhibition, the com-
mittee would be very glad of contributions
towards its cost. These should be sent to the
treasurer, while all offers of help in the organi-
sations and suggestions for exhibits should be
made to the Honorary Secretary of the " Coun.
try in Town" Exhibition, at Toynbee Hall,
Whitechapel, E.

Timber. — To those interested in the structure
and diseased conditions of wood, in the felling,
transport, and the commercial utilisation of timber,
and who are not deterred by the French language.
we recommend the perusal of and frequent reference
to a work by M. Mathey.* It is recommended to
the reader in a laudatory preface by M. Daueree.
the general director of " Eaux et Forgts."
Between the forester and the timber merchant or
the consumer is a third person, the manager. He
is not merely a man of business, but he is both a
skilled manager and a merchant. He must know
how to direct workmen of all kinds engaged in the
various operations connected with the handling of
timber. He must be an expert in his knowledge
of the structure and qualities of the different
kinds of wood, of the readiest and most economic
way of transporting them, and of turning them
to the best account from a commercial point of
view. .\ trustworthy book of reference dealing
with timber from all these points of view is
naturally a great boon to those who have to
concern themselves with these numerous and
complex details, and such a book is the one of
which M. Mathey now issues the first instalment.
It is copiously illustrated, has a classified table of
contents, and a good alphabetical index.

■* Train d' Exploitation Commeyciale des Bois, par Alphonse
Mathey. Paris ; Lucien Laveur (Williams & Norgate).

National Chrysanthemum Society. — The

adjourned annual general meeting will be held on
Monday, April 30, at Carr's Restaurant, Strand,
W.C.. at 7 p.m. -Agenda: Election of general
secretary.

The Revue de lHorticulture Belce

We learn that the publication of this important
serial, so long edited by Count Kerchove de
Denterghem, will be continued under the direc-
tion of M. Charles Pynaert. with the assistance
of Messrs. De Nobele. A Van den Heede, und
Verdonck.

Hats Nature-trimmed. — Messrs. Shearn
& Sons send us a photograph of an exhibit of
ladies' hats as trimmed by them with natural
flowers. There is not the same objection to be
raised to these decorations furnished by the florist
that there is to the wholesale massacre of unoffend-
ing birds for a like purpose. Self-adornment is
a natural instinct, and there is no reason why
the ladies of Europe should not follow the fashion
of tlieir sisters in Burma or the Sandwicli Islands.

Spring Flowers at Belvoir Castle. —
Mr. Divers informs us that these are now at their
best, and will continue to give a good display for
several weeks to come. The flower gardens and
woodland walks are open for inspection by the
public free on every week-day.

Hippeastrums. — In WTiting in our last issue
of the exhibit of Hippeastrums from Major HoL-
FORD, we inadvertently attached to it the name of
Mr. Alexander, who has charge of the Orchids at
Westonbirt. The Hippeastrums are grown under
the care of the head gardener, Mr. A. Chapman.

The Selborne Society. — Dr. Dudley
Buxton, D.Sc, has been elected Chairman of
the Council of the Selborne Society for the
ensuing year, during which the Society will
attain its majority, having been founded in
1885. On May 25, by the kindness of the Civil
Service Commission and his Majesty's Office
of Works, the annual soiree will be held in the
offices of the former, in Burlington Gardens, Jn
the buildings which were formerly those of the
London University. The President, Lord
.\VEBURV, will preside and deliver an address,
while there will be an important exhibition of
microscopes and natural history specimens.
Members may obtain their tickets from the local
secretaries, or in the case of those who are not
attached to branches, from the Honorary
General Secretary, Mr. Wilfred Mark Webb,
at 20, Hanover Square. Visitors wishing to be
present can only obtain tickets through mem-
bers.

Rose Show Fixtures in 1906. — The follow-
ing particulars of forthcoming Rose Shows are
kindly sent us by Mr. Edward Mawley : — June 26
(Tuesday). Isle of Wight; June 27 (Wednesday).
Chippenham. Colchester, Farnham, Farningham,
Reading and Southampton; June 28 (Thursday),
Canterbury. Norwich and Walton-on-Thames ;
June 30 (Saturday). Windsor; July 3 (Tuesday).
Harrow and Sutton; July 4 (Wednesday). Croy-
don, Ealing and Tunbridge Wells ; July 5 (Thurs-
day), Royal Botanic Gardens, Regent's Park
(N.R.S.) ; July 6 (Friday). Gresford ; July 10
(Tuesday), Gloucester. Southend-on-Sea* and
Wolverhamptont ; July 11 (Wednesday), Formby,
Helensburgh and Thornton Heath ; July 12
(Thursday), Brentwood. Chipping Norton, Elt-
ham, Potter's Bar and Woodbridge ; July 17
(Tuesday), Saltaire ; July 18 (Wednesday). Edin-
burgh (N.R.S.) ; July 19 (Thursday). Dunferm-
line*; July 20 (Friday), Ulverston; July 24 (Tues-
day), Tibs'helf; July 25 (Wednesday), Cardiff'
and Newcastle. on-Tynet ; July 26 (Thursday).
Salterhebble ; August 18 (Saturday), Shefiield ;
September 19 (Wednesday). Royal Horticultural
Hall, Westminster (N.R.S.).

■* Show lasting two days. t Show lasting three days.

2C6

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

April 2a, laOG.

Narcissus Pearl of Kent.— In our report
at p. 253 of the show at the Royal Horticultural
Society we inadvertently said that " King Alfred "
was exhibited in the Rev. G. B. Haydon's col-
lection ; moreover, we are informed that every
flower-stem was cut level with the ground. We
know nothing of any ill-natured remarks said
to have been written on the card. As to the
colour, we could not tell what was the colour when
the flower first opened, and the tint changes
materially after a time. Rev. G. B. Haydon
obligingly favours us with the following dimen-
sions of Pearl of Kent : — .\verage height 11 inches,
width of perianth A\ inches, width of trumpet IV
inches to IJ inches, width of perianth segments
2 inches. Pearl of Kent is out of Madame de
Graaf by pollen of Monarch.

"Orchid Dale."— In a recent number of Iniiian
Planting and Gardening is an account of the garden,
near Calcutta, of a native gentleman who main-
tains a fine range of plant-houses, and in particular
a fine collection of Orchids. Seth Dooly Chand
throws open to the public occasionally, his garden
as well as his house, which contains many
art treasures. That wealthy Indian gentlemen
should indulge in such pursuits and exercise so
much public spirit is a gratifying circumstance.

Edible Mushrooms. — The Municipal Fungus
Market of Zurich is under the supervision of the
director of the University Botanic Garden of that
city. Official inspections were made on 104 market
days in 1901, in which year, we are told, C06 lots
were exposed for sale, amounting to a total weight
of between four and five tons. The largest number
of lots offered on one day (September 27) included
some 40 baskets containing eight different species
of fungi. In six cases poisonous fungi and others
unfit for food were displayed, and duly confiscated.
During the whole year the common Mushroom,
Agaricus campestris, wild and cultivated, was
represented by about seven hundredweight of the
wild aod six hundredweight of the cultivated form,
the mtft-el by less than a hundredweight, and the
" stein-pilz," a species of Boletus, by nearly 10
hundredweight. The newspapers frequently re-
port cases of poisoning from the eating of fungi
outside the city of Ziirich, where probably
similar precautions are not taken. It is greatly
to be desired that in every instance the public
health officers should ascertain the exact species of
fungus, so that its name might be communicated to
the doctor in attendance, and at the same time
send up specimens of the fungus in question for
examination. In brief, the public should on no
account buy, collect, or cook any unknown species
of fungus, should be careful of any that are not
absolutely fresh, and avoid any that are dirty or
piled up one upon another. Unfortunately for us,
the names of the fungi mentioned in the report
of the Botanical Department of the University
of Ziirich for 1901 are given in tlie vernacular
only. Thus it is not possible for us to know
precisely what species are intended. In this
country it is rare to see any fungus but the
common, and the liorse Mushrooms and the truffle
exposed for sale in the markets. We have a
recollection of having gathered "stein-pilz" in
the Bernese Oberland, and of having partaken of
them with gratification unalloyed by any subse-
quent ill-effects beyond that of an unsatisfied
desire to know of what species we had partaken.

The Congo Flora. — The third part of the
first volume of the "Etudes" of the lower and ,
Central Congo — by M. De Wildeman — has lately
been issued. A large nunjber of new species has
been described, and several have been figured in
the form of quarto illustrations of great excellence,
M. De Wildeman, whose critical notes are of
much value, has been assisted by Dr. Christ, of
Basle, Mr. C. B. Clarke, the late M. Pierre, and
others. A complete index renders the work easily
accessible

The Caucasus. — .\ very entertaining and
instructive book, entitled a travers la Caiicasc
(Paris, Fischbacher), has been published by a
well-known botanist. Dr. Emile Levier. In
company with M. Sommier, the author under-
took a journey across the Caucasus. The account
of his journey is given in the lively, unstilted form
of letters addressed to friends at home. They
appeal to lovers of hardy plants and botanists in
particular. The trees and plants are mentioned
incidentally, and we should have welcomed a com-
plete list of them in addition to the appendix
containing the names of the new species and
varieties met with. A map and numerous illustra-
tions add to the attractions of the book.

Japanese Vegetation. — Professor Miyoshi,
of the Science College of the Imperial University of
Tokio, has published the first portion of a series
of small quarto illustrations showing a selection of
those plants, wild or cultivated, and of those land-
scapes or garden views which represent character-
istic features of the vegetation in various parts of
Japan. Tlie plates, taken from photographs, are

whilst reference is made to those works in which
fuller descriptive details may be found. The titla
of the book is " Atlas of Japanese Vegetation,"
and it may be had from Messrs. Williams &
Norgate.

The Garden Treatment. — Experiments,
have recently been made by several London phy-
sicians by recommending lady patients suffering
from " nerves," overwork, or anaemia the simple
remedy of going in for a short course of gardening
at one of the schools where instruction is given in
liorticulture. A physician, when interviewed by a
I'ress representative, said: "I send many of
my patients to such schools. There is a school
for such patients at the Botanical Gardens,
Regent's Park, and in the country there are
several others — for instance, at Swanley, in Kent,
Lady Warwick's school of gardening at Studley
Castle, Warwickshire, and another near Dunmow,
in Essex, for general horticulture. I am sending
jiatients away regularly for courses of three or six
months to these schools. The work is of a novel
character, the patients are much in the open air.

V

t

\ll ^fej

3 1

Fig. 110. — reproduction of photographs showing the gradual development
of the plant and flower in crocus.

(For text see page 267.)

very characteristic. In the number before us we
have Prunus Mume, of which we are told in the
text that there are more than 300 garden-varieties
— a not very pleasing prospect for those of our
successors who may be called on to identify and
name these varieties. Prunus pseudo-cerasus and
P. pendula follow ; Magnolia Kobus is spoken of as
the most showy of Japanese species. Iris laevigata,
better known here as I. Kaempferi, is credited
with between 300 and 400 varieties, cultivated in
the Iris gardens near Tokio, and showing marvel-
lous diversities in the size, shape, and colour of
the flowers, and even of the leaves. A view in the
, Botanic garden at Tokio shows a lake surrounded
by Pines, with rounded bushes of Enkianthus in
the foreground. Fatsia japonica is the subject
of another plate, its bold foliage and elegant
inflorescence being well shown. Phyllostachys
mitis is also illustrated, with its long, lithe
branches bent down with snow. The text is iu
English as well as in Japanese, and gives those
details which the plant-lover requires, devoid of
undue technicality but accurate and " up to date,"

and among beautiful plants, shrubs, and flowers,
and all these things have a distinctly soothing
influence upon an exhausted nervous system." The
Therapist.

"Country Press" Post Cards. — The Cok«
try Press (19, Ball Street, Kensington) have issued
another series of pictorial descriptive postcards.
The former set was in connection with " The Fern
Paradise," and showed fronds of various British
Ferns ; the cards before us illustrate the leaves of
British Trees and Shrubs. They are interesting
and useful as showing the venation and giving the
scientific as well as the popular names of 14 species.
It is unfortunate that no stipules are shown, nor is
the difference between the upper and lower sur-
faces of the various leaves at all distinct in these
diagrams, and a yet further improvement would
have been to indicate the hairs that are a distinct
feature in some species — in the White Beam, for
example. No hint as to the comparative size of
the foliage is given. Apart from these details we
have some 57 small pictures of leaves that should
prove attractive to every tree-lover.

April 28, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

207

Publications Received.— /l^WcH/^wra/ Bulletin
oj the Straits and Federated Malay States. Edited by
H. N, Ridley, Director of Botanic Gardens. Con-
lents : Rubber Pests, by Editor; Water and Plant
Life, by S. Arden, &c. — From the U.S. Department of
Agriculture. Bureau of Plant Industry. Bulletins,
90 : Miscellaneous Papers, 1. The Storage and Ger-
mination of Wild Rice, by J. Duvel ; II. Crown-Gall
and Hairy-root Diseases of the Apple Tree ; G. Hedg-
cock : III. Peppermint, by Alice Henkel ; IV. Poisonous
Action of Johnson Grass, by A. C. Crawford. — No. 91 :
Varieties of Tobacco Seed distributed in 1D05-6, with
Cultural Directions, by A. D. Shamel and W. W. Cobey.
—No. 93 : Control of Apple Bitter-Rot, by W. M. Scott.
— No. 100, Pait I. Cranberry Spraying Experiments i7i
1005, by C. L. Shear.— No. 100. Part II. Wrapping of
Apple-Grafts and its Illation to the Crown-Gall
Disease, by Hermann VouSchrenk. — Trddgarden. This
is an illustrated quarto periodical, published under the
auspice/^i of the Swedish Horticultural Society. The
fllustrat ons are numerous and good. Mr. Carl G.
Dahi is ihe secretary of the editorial department.

THE MOVEMENTS OF PLANTS.

The illustration, fig. 110, for which we are
indebted to Mrs. Dukinfield Scott, is one of
many similar ones exhibited at a recent meet-
ing of the Royal Horticultural Society by that
lady. The object sought is to show at once or
in a short space of time movements often so
gradual and occupying so long a time that they
cannot, under ordinary circumstances, be con-
tinuously watched. The photographs are taken
on a glass disc coated with a sensitive
substance. This disc is capable of taking as
many as 350 photographs. These photographs
are taken in succession at frequent intervals
during a long series of hours, and, when
ready for use, are placed in the apparatus,
when, by the aid of the lantern, a succes-
sion of images is projected on to the screen.
The whole process of the growth of the Crocus,
from its first appearance to the full development
of the flower, is thus represented in continuous
sequence in the course of two or three minutes.
If automatic clockwork apparatus and artificial
light could be utilised, the trouble involved of
working all day and sittmg up all night for,
perhaps, a week in order to take the photo-
graphs, would be avoided. The movements of
the sensitive plants and the " circumnutations "
of climbing plants are very clearly shown in
this manner, and the records thus furnished
by Mrs. Scott will doubtless be very valuable
when authentic and comparative records of what
takes place during the growth of plants are
required.

AN ERRATIC ANTHURIUM.

One of the most extraordinary malformations
that we have ever seen in Aroids is that shown
in fig. Ill, wherein are depicted the tpathe and
spadix of Anthurium Scherzerianura. The spathe
is of the ordinary conformation, being a broad,
flattish leaf of a rich scarlet colour, whence the
plant has derived the popular name of the
Flamingo plant, or, as we once heard Bishop
Wilberforce, then of Oxford, call it, the "flaming
go ! " The central axis or spadix is curiously
contorted, dilated and divided into several
branches all covered with flowers of the ordi-
nary kind. The whole appearance is like that of
a hermit-crab emerging from the shell in which,
after displacing its rightful owner, it has taken up
its quarters, the spathe representing the shell.
On cutting the branched spadix lengthwise, and
also across, we were surprised to see the inner
surface of the branches covered with flowers as
well as the outside. The vertical section shows
in the centre the original spadix, solid at the
bottom, but dividing midway into an irregular cup
from whose upper margin proceed the secondary
branches of varying lengths. The cross section
A B shows the primary spadix in the centre.

surrounded by the cup-like body. From the suc-
culent nature of the branches and the venation
we are inclined to think the appearance is
due to a branching of the original spadix. The
secondary branches are united at the base to form
an irregular cup surrounding the primary spadix.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

Fig. III. — ANTHURIUM SCHERZERIANUM

with flat, scarlet spathe, and a succulent, contorted.

dilated, aud branched spadix, covered on all sides

with minute flowers.

CpAdj>f.

ection on A- B -

C,,>.rdchror\

Fig. 1X2.
Vertical section through the contorted spadix, un-
branched and cylindric at the base, but dividing
above into several irregular branches, all studded with
flowers. The transverse section shows the central
cylindrical spadix surrounded by the tubular or
cup-like base of the secondary spadix.

but above are detached and separate one from
the other, and, as has been said, densely covered
with flowers en all sides. We are indebted to Mr.
Thomas Lewis, Fair Oak House, Roath Park,
Cardiff, for the opportunity of illustrating this
curious specimen.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for ilie
opinions expressed by his correspondents.}
Plant Distribution by the Royal Horti-
cultural Society. — I have been more fortunate
than some who have written on this subject, as I
received most of the plants I asked for this year,
and they arrived by rail in excellent condition,
being very carefully packed in damp moss. In
previous years I have received many good plants
which were not in our collection, some were in-
deed small, but can one reasonably expect the
Royal Horticultural Society to grow large plants,
and send them to 10,000 Fellows, and ■ exactly
what each thinks fit to ask for ! I am surprised
that the staff succeed as well as they do in this
matter. W. H. Divers, Belvoir Castle Gardens,
Grantham. y,

Calceolaria Mexicana. — This rarely culti-
vated annual is well worth a place in gardens,
although it evidently resents cultivation and
thrives much better when allowed to shed its seed
and grow naturally. On a recent visit to the
neighbourhood of Dolgelly, I much admired it.
It was growing luxuriantly, and plants were flower-
ing in all stages from 4 to 5 feet in height. The
pale yellow flowers are contrasted with their
pubescent, reddish brown calyx and the seedpods.
Both sun and shade appear quite suited to the
plant's requirements. The ground between rows
of Dahlias was covered with masses of flowers,
while a few plants had also been allowed to remain
around Sweet Pea clumps, thus furnishing the
bare and unsightly lower portions of the Peas.
Again, at the foot of shrubs and in places where
probably little or nothing else would grow, was it
seen. The flowers when cut remain fresh for a
long time in water. I have some sprays which
have already been cut 16 days and are now quite
fresh and with flowers still expanding. F. G.
Brewer, Bryntirion Gardens, Bont-ddii, Dolgelly,
Merioneth.

Supporting Strawberries. — Will any
grower of Strawberries tell me if it is undesirable
to let the flowering trusses hang over a small raised
wire hoop round the plant so as to avoid the
necessity of straw ? I am told that the fruit will
not grow so fine if suspended instead of lying
down. Is this statement correct ? Ge»rge Henslow,
Leamington.

Seeding of Aspidistra. — The Aspidistra
referred to by Mr Schneider at p. 251 has pro-
bably been fertilised by slugs. There is an inter-
esting article by Dr. Wilson in the Transaitions o] the
Botanical Society of Edinburgh, Vol. XVII., part
iii., p. 495, on "The Fertilisation of Aspidistra
elatior by Slugs." Ji. Lindsay.

Fungus on Roots. — During the season 1903
we had a young vine of Muscat of Alexandria
which shanked badly, in fact, so much so that
the bunches were reduced to mere skeletons, and
this was chiefly attributed to the presence of
fungus on the roots. This fungus, wherever it
prevails to any extent, is very prejudicial to the
well-being of the trees, which it attacks. I believe
it is possible for it to exist, and do considerable
injury to vines and other plants without being
suspected; the fact of its being under the soil
rendering it a very insidious pest. I have known
several cases of vines doing badly or indifferently,
for reasons which were not at all apparent, but
which I now think may have been due to this
causa, judging from the experience I have had of
it during the last few years amongst fruit trees
generally. I have found its deleterious effects on
Peach, Nectarine, Fig, Plum, Pear and Apple
trees. Its mode of action appears to be to attack
the surface roots chiefly, the mycelium of the
fungus spreading through the soil and fastening
on the roots. In some instances the trees continue
making young roots from the main ones, which
grow a few inches and then die, being closely
followed by others which meet a similar fate.
Such a tree on being taken up may present an
unusual number of fibrous roots, which appear at
first sight to be alive, but on examination are
found to be mostly dead. As the surface roots
cannot in such a case act properly, the result is
unfruitfulness, or indifferent fruit ; at the same time
the tree may have the appearance of perfect health
as regards its wood and leaf growth, as the roots,
whose function it is to sustain these latter, strike
down deeper into the soil, and thus get away from
the enemy. If from any cause these roots cannot
do this, then it is a struggle between them and the

268

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 28, 1906.

parasite, the trees usually assuming an unhealthy
appearance, sometimes dying outright. In casting
about for some means whereby to minimise the
evil in the case of the vine referred to above, I was
advised by the Scientific Committee of the Royal
Horticultural Society to take up the roots, wash
them, and re-plant them in fresh soil. I conceived
the idea of falsing the stem through the hole of a
large flower-pot, stood up clear of the border and
filled with soil, for the vine to root in. The new roots
I considered would be equivalent to surface roots,
and take the place of the injured ones in the
border. The result was a complete success,
shanking being practically eliminated. The follow-
ing winter the soil was taken out of the pot, and
replaced by fresh, the roots being shaved back
close to the stem of the vine, so that an entirely
new set should be produced, to assist in the
maturation of last year's crop, when the same
gratifying results were experienced, as with the
Grapes of the previous season. R. W. Dean.

Natural Selection. — It seems to me that
Mr. Druery and I are now only at issue with
regard to Darwin's meaning of "injurious
variations " of structure. He says : " If such a
variation as described (dwarf Ferns) is not in-
juriouSj inadaptive, or unfavourable, I should
like to know what is." So should I, if they
existed ; but they are purely imaginary, as I
understand Darwin. I take him to mean some
variations of structure, induced to arise by a
changed environment, which are actually harm-
ful to tlie flant itself — i.e., it would die, even
if there were no other plant near it, and no
struggle for existence. Darwin gives no ex-
ample, real or imaginary, to illustrate his words
(Origin, etc., 6th ed., p. 63), but I gather this
to be his meaning from other passages, and
especially from his simile of the house. We
have seen how the " noble and commodious
edifice " was supposed to be built of " selected "
but " accidentally shaped " stones ; but Darwin
does not describe the house built of stones
without selection, which would represent an
individual jeedling-plant having " injurious
variations." Let me attempt to complete the
parallel. Suppose a jerry-builder comes along ;
he does not select his stones, but builds the
walls with any pieces picked up at random,
just as can be done up to, say, 4 feet in height,
as may be seen in any stone country, as Derby-
shire. He now has to continue the walls, per-
haps to ten times that height, leaving spaces
for doors and windows. The walls soon acquire
an unstable equilibrium, the weight increases,
dislocations begin, and down comes the house,
like one made of cards. The shapeless stones
were a source of " injury " to the house. The
use of concrete or mortar is excluded, as being
designed and prepared material. Darwin omits
them. Now, let us imagine a plant to corre-
spond with this. If, in my experiment, some
of the seedlings of the Water Crowfoot produced
leaves identical with the submerged ones of its
parent, from some inability to adapt itself to
air, the plant would have perished ; or, if it
produced leaves of some different (" indefinite "
kind, is Darwin's word), but still quite in-
adapted to air, it would have perished ; but
nothing of the kind occurred. What, then,
would Darwin say about Mr. Druery's dwarf
Ferns? They fall under his category of "for-
tuitous destruction" (Origin, etc., p. 68). A
number of my seedlings suffered in the same
way, being smothered by bigger plants, though
perfectly adapted to survive in air, had they
been isolated. It was unfortunate for the
dwarfs that more robust plants happened to be
near them. It was simply ill-luck. If mere
size is to determine what is injurious and what
not, where is one to draw the line? I am
sorry I misunderstood Mr. Druery's meaning
about the dwarf, and also regret to think he
could imagine that I " challenged " him, for
such would seem to imply that I doubted his
word ! I was anxious for a " case," and am
much obliged to him for his courtesy in supply,
ing me with an excellent one. With regard to
the origin of dwarf plants, Mr. Druery appears
to think it IS " indubitably (?) not due to starva-
tion." I have discussed the " Origin of
Nanism " in my Origin of Plant Structures
(ISO.j, pp. 6, 96), where the opposite view is
maintained by several botanists. Other causes
besides insufficiency of nutriment can bring
about an arrest of growth, without injuring the
vital functions of a plant ; but dwarfs may be
sterile, as well as perfectly fertile. Ranunculus

sceleratus will grow to 4 feet in height in a
ditch, but I found a dwarf race, the tallest
specimen being about three inches in height.
They were growing in dried-up Nile mud within
a hundred yards of the Great Pyramid. Prof.
Sickenburger, of Cairo, told me he had known
them for a long time. I am inclined to be
" dogmatic " again, and say that their dwarf
size was "indubitably" due to lack of water
and impoverishment ! I do not know if I have
at last satisfied my friend, but, if not, I think
Mr. Druery and I must " agree to differ."
George Henslow. [This discussion must now be
closed. — Ed.]

Cassiope hypnoides. — I was much interested
in the article and illustration of this plant on p.
226, as I think it is a division of plants I have had
growing here in the open since the year 1S99, when
I brought them from Norway. My reason for
writing is to advise any growers of Alpine plants
living at a high elevation like myself, viz., 600
feet, not to despair of growing this plant in the
open, and that without taking the trouble of arti-
ficial watering, as I have grown it successfully and
flowered it annually in ordinary flat pockets of a
rockery on ground level facing the north, and I
have never watered it, because the dew that falls
here in summer has evidently supplied the neces-
sary moisture. My specimens do not, however,
flower so freely as the plant in your illustration,
which I understand has had frame treatment.
Alec. Cowan, Vallcyfieli, Penkuick, Midlothian.

Beautifying Frequented Woodland
Walks and Drives. — The season is approach-
ing when numerous kinds and varieties of spring-
flowering plants must be removed from their beds
in the flower garden to make room for their
summer occupants. One cannot help thinking of
the many winding shrubbery walks and woodland
carriage drives that might be rendered beautiful
by the transplanting of masses of these uprooted
spring-flowering plants, instead of consigning
them to the rubbish heap, as is too frequently the
case. Masses of dark and golden Wallflower,
Myosotis grandiflora (Forget-me-Nots), Primroses,
Aubrietias, London Pride (Saxifraga umbrosa).
Daffodils, Snowdrops, Scillas, 'Violets, Silene
pendula, Arabis, Alyssum saxatile. Gentians,
Violas, and such-like subjects are all suitable for
this purpose. In order to give the above-mentioned
plants an opportunity of growing and showing off
to the best advantage, the ground, where necessary,
should be prepared for their reception. The
expense thus incurred would be trifling, and the
results would amply repay the outlay the first
spring after planting. H. W. Ward, Raylcigh.

Packing Seeds for the Tropics. — It may

not be amiss to quote the following extract on pre-
serving seeds, from Thomson's Gardeners' Assistant,
bearing, as it does, in a measure on the subject of
this discussion. " Canvas bags, of greater or
less thickness or fineness, are found to keep many
kinds of seeds exceedingly well, as all the Brassica
tribe. Peas, Beans, and in short most kitchen-
garden seeds. For some, however, whicli are
highly aromatic, paper is considered to be prefer-
able, as it is closer and does not so readily permit
the essential qualities of the seeds to escape by
exhalation. ... A cool temperature is best
for not exciting the vegetative principle in seeds,
and consequently the best for preservation ; . . .
near, but not lower than 40" is probably that
which is most desirable, for at that temperature
the water which the seeds contain is at its greatest
density: lower or higher it expands, and by
expansion the organs of the seed must be more or
less disturbed. It should be possible to exclude
the air from the seed-room when too cold and too
warm, and if the internal air be too damp the first
opportunity should be taken to induce a free circu-
lation of air when it is in a dry state

Seeds closely packed in dry soil, and consequently
almost excluded from the air, retain their powers
of vegetation much better than those that are her-
metically sealed in glass bottles or jars. In the
latter case, the air in the jar or bottle must be-
come contaminated by the exhalation from the
seeds, and more or less saturated with the mois-
ture that they contain. The consequence is, that
the seeds are then in an impure, damp, and close
atmosphere, and in most cases become completely
spoiled." Now, what gardener would care to
keep his kitchen-garden and flower-garden seeds,
even for a few days, in the moist atmosphere and
high temperature of a plant stove, the nearest
approach we have to the conditions prevailing in
tropical countries? And it is under these condi-

tions, more or less, that seeds travel in less than a.
fortnight's time after leaving this country on their
way to tropical countries ? It is not surprising
therefore that under ordinary circumstances seeds
from temporate countries lose their vitality after
a time, but as a matter of fact some seeds keep
good longer than might be expected. I have seen
Lettuce seed which had been packed in paper
keeping good for successional sowings a consider-
able time. My experience with seed-sowing in
the tropics was confined to those packed in paper
and canvas bags, and when they were attended to
and put in the ground immediately on their arrival
they germinated freely enough. But even in this
country it is not an unusual occurrence to have
failures with some seed, and that may be due
to a variety of causes, such as a bad harvesting sea-
son and obtaining them from an irresponsible
source. It may be that in some cases the failure
of seeds to germinate in the tropics might be
traced to other causes than the material they are
packed in. Sometimes they are too old before
they reach their destination in far off countries
and the right season lor planting comes round,
even should they be up to a normal standard of
perfection, which it is to be suspected is not
always the case. In conclusion, my advice to.
planters and garden lovers in the tropics is to
order their seeds as often as they require thenr
and sow immediately on their arrival. With re-
gard to the power of seeds specially protected, as
they are by some firms, to withstand the effects
of a hot climate, I do not claim to have any
acquaintance, but it cannot be doubted that those
who take the extra precautions do so in the light
of years of accumulated experience. M. McN.

Ramie Fibre. — One of the most interesting
features of the second spring show, held at the
Koyal Botanic Society's Gardens, Regent's Park,
was the exhibit of Ramie (Urtica or Boehmeria.
nivea). This is a plant of the Nettle family. It
has large leaves of a velvety texture, covered on
the underside with soft white hairs. The special
feature of this plant is its commercial value.
From the long upright stems is prepared an
excellent fibre, which is the useful ramie. The
exhibit was a very complete one, showing all
stages of preparation from the natural growing,
plant to the beautiful white, silky fibro. '\'arious.
articles made of this fibre were alf>'> shown.
There was a white waistcoat made of ramie
which, although it had been in use for twelve
years, being washed many times, looked as good
as new. A khaki tunic, used in .South Africa,
made of ramie had outworn three ordinary
cotton tunics. It can be used with L.ie utmost
success in the manufacture of almost every
article of clothing. It is in great demand at the
present time for the making of incandescent gas.
mantles. There is a growing demand which
would increase by leaps and bounds if manu-
facturers could only be assured that the supply
would be equal to the demand. Germany alone
uses annually 150,000,000 ramie-made gas
mantles. The fibre fetches to-day £32 per ton,
but it can be bought as low as £18. The natives,
of Asiatic countries are satisfied and realise a
profit on £10. The highest figure paid per ton
was £40. A planter who lays down ramie has.
a lasting crop, and has nothing to do but weed,
mulch and gather. The plantation continues,
to yield a regular crop for 16 or 18 years.
Unlike cotton, it is not subject to failure. A
neglected plantation does not, of course, yield
so successful a crop as one that has received
attention and care. A great point in favour of
the cultivation of ramie is that it is not subject
to the ravages of the white ant and locust (dis-
advantages which again attend the growth of
cotton). The Chinese grow the fibre as a rule
in small patches. It is very easily cultivated
thus, and grows to a height of 5 or 6 feet or
more. As the stems arrive at maturity they are
cut down to the root. They are then stripped
by hand, the ribbons being passed through the
thumb and forefinger, to which is attached .a
hard substance ; this removes the skin and the
resinous material. The fibre is then rinsed in
water and hung up to dry, and in this rough
state is imported. It would be more satisfac-
tory if the cleaning process were finished at the-
place of growth, as the gummy matter that is.
left solidifies, and is difficult to remove. It also
in some cases discolours the fibre. At the pre-
sent time there exists no really satisfactory
decorticating machine, and consequently most
of the work has to be done by hand. There is
no doubt that in a short time, as the supply of

April i!8, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

269

ramie increases and more industries are formed,
improved machinery will be forthcoming. The
construction of large mills rests entirely with
the planters ; for the latter must be fully able
to supply the large and continuous quantities
demanded. Mr. Edwards Radclyffe, of Staines,
Middlesex, is desirous of starting a ramie
growing association, and would be pleased to
receive applications for membership. G. W .
Dickson. [p'ormer attempts in this direction
have, we believe, not been commercially suc-
cessful.— Kd.]

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

April n.—Prcsmt : Dr. M. T. Masters,
F.R.S. (in the chair) ; Dr. M. C. Cooke, M.A. ;
Professor Boulger, Messrs. Saunders, Cuth-
bertson, Bowles, Massee, Hooper, and Chitten-
den (hon. sec).

Roots of Gardenia Dying. — Roots of Gardenia
in a dying condition were received, and were
referred to Mr. S.vunders for further examina-
tion.

Auriculas and Inheritance of Characters. — Mr.
Douglas drew attention to some show Auri-
'ulas, pointing out the characters that the
florist aimed at procuring. He also showed a
truss of flowers, all except one of which were
self-red, the exception being a yellow flower.
IJy raising seeds from red flowers crossed by
red a large number of yellows are produced,
while if two show flowers with dark ground are
crossed, usually light coloured flowers are
found in the seedlings.

Destruction of Wild Flowers. — A letter on
this subject was read from Miss Trowek, who
remarked on the wholesale destruction of such
plants as I'rimroses and other wild flowers by
hawkers and by visitors to the country. Mr.
Hovi.GKR said that there might possibly be some
legal enactments before long upon the subject,
and that the Devon County Council were en-
deavouring to get a bye-law, dealing with the
uprooting of wild flowers, sanctioned by the
Home Secretary.

Rlwdodcndron arboreum. — Mr. DuNCAN David-
son sent flowers of this Himalayan species from
Dingwall, where a specimen is growing in a
shrubbery on strong clay at about 400 feet above
sea level, and half a mile from the sea. The
tree is about 20 feet to 25 feet in height, and as
much through, the stem at the ground level
measuring 36 inches in circumference. The
tree is planted on the north side of a clump of
other Rhododendrons, about 20 yards through,
and is sheltered on the north by Conifers and
shrubs. It usually flowers at the end of
November en to the end of March or beginning
of April.

Narcissus 7V't/.' I'.afy spathc. — Mr. Jenkins,
of Hampton Hill, sent a specimen of Narcissus
Princeps in which the usually membranous
spathe had become leafy, and was hooded in
shape at the apex. As Mr. Jenkins remarked,
the corona had suffered in making its escape
from the sheath, being considerably contracted
on one side.

Ochna multiflora. — Dr. MASTERS drew atten-
tion to this plant exhibited by Mr. Chas.
Turner, of the Royal Nurseries, Slough, which
had received a first class certificate in 1879,
but was little seen in gardens. The main
peculiarity lay in the fruit. The flower is some-
what inconspicuous, but as the fruit ripens the
calyx becomes enlarged and bright red, and the
receptacle also becomes red and very fleshy.

Botanical CcrtiUcatcs. — Some discussion took
place as to the points that should be considered
in awarding a plant a botanical certificate. Dr.
Masters bringing forward some suggestions on
the subject, which were commented upon by
the. members present. Letters were read from
Mr. WoRSDELL and Mr. Odell on the matter,
and it was agreed to bring the matter up again
at the next meeting.

NATIONAL AURICULA & PRIMULA
(SOUTHERN SECTION).*

When it became necessary to select a date for
this society's exhibition two only were available,
viz., April 17 or May 1, and as .-^pril 20 is about

•See also brief report in last issue.

the recognised date for London the 17th was
selected, but owing to the very cold weather in
March and part of April there was a fear that it
would be a poor show ; but once again the prophets
of evil were wrong, and the show was well up in
quality to that of any previous one.

There has been very little alteration in the
schedule of prizes since the society was inaugu-
rated in 1876, until this year. In previous years
there used to be a class for ,50 Auriculas {to show
any kind of Auricula) ; the show and Alpine
varieties were mixed together sometimes, which
was not entirely satisfactory. This hybrid class
has been eliminated, and in lieu thereof two
classes have been introduced, 24 show Auriculas
and 24 Alpine Auriculas ; this arrangement worked
well, and was certainly an improvement. The
competition was very keen in both classes, and
some very fine varieties were exhibited. Taking
the show class first, we found the newest and the
very old varieties competing for a place, but it
is easy to be seen that the older ones are rapidly
giving way before the new varieties. Lovely
.\nn was exhibited in one collection, but Booth's
Freedom and Page's Champion, which were
exhibited at the early shows, have quite dis-
appeared, but even they could not compare with
such fine green edges as Mrs. Henwood, Abbd
Liszt, Shirley Hibberd, and a new one named
Henry Wilson, which has a very correct green
edge, but, as shown, wanting in body colour.
Other good green edges were James Hannaford,
sometimes good ; Rev. Francis D. Horner, an
old favourite ; Gladiator is good sometimes, but it
was not well shown — the paste being defecti\e.
.Vbraham Barker is excellent, but it is often
between a green and a grey edge. Diomed is a
true and good green, better than Gladiator. One
or two seedling green-edged varieties were exhibi-
ted, but they are not in commerce, and may not
hold to their maiden promise.

The grey-edged is a stronger class, and some
handsome varieties were exhibited in the various
classes. George Lightbody. the oldest of them,
is still one of the best ; it was well shown.
Olympus, a very true grey edge as it was shown
by Mr. Cranfield. George Rudd. a good grey,
was not in its best form. Richard Headley was
well shown by Mr. John T. Bennett-Poe ; not
such a handsome plant has been seen in London
since the late Rev. Frederick Tvmons brought
over two plants from Ireland about 20 years ago
or more. William Brockbank was in poor form,
having too much body colour. Colonel Champneys
was very showy, but is not a show flower ; we want
a grey edge of merit with the violet body colour of
Colonel Champneys ; but although it is the best
seeder of all the show .Auriculas, it is not a good
parent. Dinham was good this year. Persever-
ance was well shown, but it is seldom in good
form. Lancashire Hero was good in one col-
lection, and Marmion, though it lacks ground
colour, was very correct.

The white edged was well represented. Acme
was one of the best, and shown in most collections.
Conser\ative was in good form ; in its maiden
state it won " Premier." Dr. Kidd not in good
form. Mrs. Dodwell, with only two pips, did not
improve the collection in which it was placed.
The Miller (new) was very neat, and has a true
white edge; it is promising. One plant of Magpie
was shown, not so good as usual, being rough on
the edge. This is generally fine, and has been in
existence 20 years; it is one of the Rev. F". D.
Horner's productions ; but, like many other fine
show Auriculas, it is slow to get outside the col-
lection at Low Fields.

In self edges Favourite seems to be an improve-
ment on Mrs. Potts ; they are both good violet
sells. Mrs. Phillips and Mrs. Barnett are both
good maroon selfs evidently from the same
parents ; Cleopatra is a well-formed flower, but
was not at its best. Ruby and Lord of Lome,
both red selfs, were the best in this colour.
Gerald and Heroine were the best of the older
maroon colour.

Alpine Auriculas.
The Alpine Auriculas made a brilliant display.
The improvement in this class has been very
marked in recent years ; it seems more amenable
to improvement, and it is rather curious that the
Standard of Excellence set up by the florists should
insist on the shaded edge for Alpine .\uriculas,
and that the self edge in show Auriculas should
not be shaded ; again, an Alpine Auricula must have
no farina on the centre disc, whereas the centre
of a show Auricula must be heavily mealed,

indeed, a choice Alpine Auricula has no farina or
"meal" either on leaf or flower. The finest
gold centred Alpine Auricula in the exhibition was
Majestic ; it is of excellent form in truss and flower,
the centre clear yellow, the margin maroon crim-
son, shading oS to the edge of a paler tint. The
best white centred variety was Teviotdale ; the
centre is white, the margin deep purple, shading
off to a paler purple. Amongst gold centred
varieties were Duke of York, large truss and
flowers brilliant ; Firefly, very bright crimson and
gold, golden disc, rich gold centre, shaded bright
red margin; J. F. Kew, General Buller, Flora
Mclvor, Mrs. Markham, and Mrs. Martin Smith.
There were not nearly so many good varieties in the
white ground class, but considerable improvement
has been made during the last decade. Teviotdale
is a considerable improvement on any other in this
class. Thetis has a cream centre, vigorous in
growth, and flower of fine form. Blue Bell is very
distinct ; its shading most pronounced. Amongst
older white ground varieties, Mrs. Harry Turner
is still good; Melaineand Elegant are also distinct
and pretty.

The competition in these Alpine classes used to
be confined to a few amateurs ; now the com-
petitors are numerous and widely spread over the
southern counties.

The Polyanthuses were well represented, and
also the collections of Primulas. The committee
of the society awarded First Class Certificates to
Mr. Jas. Douglas for a maroon self Auricula,
"Zarnia," to Mr. C. Henmall for Paul Hen-
mall crimson self, and to Phillips & TaVlor for
their Alpine Majestic ; this also was the Premier
.Alpine. Messrs. Phillips had the Premier
award also for Mrs. Henwood.

The Medals given by Mr. J. Douglas were
awarded as follows: — Silver Gilt to Messrs.
Phillips & Taylor, Silver to F. A. Price,
Beckenham, Kent, and Bronze to Mr. C. G.
Butler for six seedling Alpines.

ROYAL BOTANIC,

April 18. — A bright show was made in the
corridor and conservatory at Regent's Park, on
Wednesda)', the 18th inst. The e-xhibits, ex-
cepting the Orchids, Amaryllids, Auriculas, and
some other plants which were not represented
on this occasion, were so similar to those ex-
hibited on the previous day at the R.H.S., that
only a brief notice is requisite.

Messrs. W. Paul & So.n, of Waltham Cross,
Herts, contributed a nice group of hardy flower-
ing shrubs and Roses. Of the latter, Elaine
(hybrid Tea), white, round, full flowers, with
a faint blush tint; Crepuscule (noisette),
bright amber flowers, tall, branching plant, with
clear amber flowers from the lateral branches ;
Warrior (H.T.) was well shown ; also Trier, a
pure white flower of the Rambler type, and
Wedding Bells, a pink rambler, with semi-
double flowers. A Juliet (Tea), with amber
base to petals, shading off to pink. (Silver
medal.)

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert, Southgate, put
up a large group of flowering pjants. Azalea
mollis varieties being the chief feature. J. C.
Van Thol, Dr. Reichenbach, Emil Leibeg were
good. Weigela Eva Rathke, Spirasa confusa,
Lilacs in fine double varieties, Cytisus prascox
alba, and other showy things. (Gold medal.)

Mr. S. Mortimer, Farnham, contributed a
fine bank of Polyanthus and American Carna-
tions. Of the latter, Halowarden, The Belle,
Nelson Fisher, and Flamingo were good.
(Silver medal.)

Messrs. J. Peed & Son, West Norwood, staged
a neat group of rock plants, and various sub-
jects, Orobus vernus, Scillas, Primulas, etc.,
were attractive. (Silver medal.)

Mr. T. R. Russell, Richmond, exhibited a
group of Clematis ; of sorts worthy of special
note were Lucie Lemoine, Purpurea elegans,
Ville de L}'on, King Edward VII., Mrs. Geo.
Jackman, etc. (Silver medal.)

E. Wagg, Esq. (gr. Mr. D. Phillips), The
Islet, Maidenhead, contributed a fine group of
Cinerarias ; the foreground consisted of speci-
mens of the finest florist type, backed up with
itellata varieties. (Gold medal.)

Messrs. Cuibush & Sons, Highgate, put up a
large rockery ; with a basin of aquatics in the
centre, hardy Orchids, Gentians, Trollius, etc.,
made a nice show. (Gold medal.)

Messrs. HoGG & Robertson, Dublin, con-
tributed a large collection of Narcissi, among

2Tt»

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 1:8, 1906.

"which Lady Gore Booth, Lady Arnott, Mrs. F.
W. Moore, Brigadier, and others were good.
\Large Silver medal.)

Messrs. R. M. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, staged
a fine collection o£ Narcissi. King's Norton,
Glory of Nordwijk, Eyebright (a fine poeticus
variety), and Marie Hall, were worthy of special
note. (Large Silver-gilt medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons also put up a choice
collection, including several new varieties ;
Agnes Harvey, a pure white Leedsii, which
gained an award of merit ; odorus rugulosus
maximus, Pearl of Kent, the large trumpet white
White Swan, Snowdon, Royal Star, and other
new sorts were included. (Silver-gilt medal.)

H. R. DAKLfNGTON, Ksq., Park House, Pot-
ter's Bar (gr. Mr. D. Bignell), contributed a
collection ol about 70 varieties, including many
of the newer sorts. (Large Silver medal.) Ow-
ing to there»!(being only one exhibit the Barr
Medal was not awarded.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

April 5. — Tliere was a good show of plants at
the meeting held on this date, several meritorious
groups being staged.

R. Le Doux, Esq., West Derby (gr. Mr. Daven-
port), showed a group of about 20 specimen plants,
including Dendrobiums, Odontoglossums, Lycastes
and Oncidiums. The most striking plant of the
group was a well-cultivated Dendrobium Brymer-
ianum, full of bloom. A Cultural Certificate and
a Silver Gilt Medal were awarded to this group.

Philip Smith, Esq., Ashton-on-Mersey (gr. Mr.
ICitchen), also staged a good group of plants of
varied characfer ; several good Dendrobiums were
noticeable. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Jajies Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham,
contributed a display for which a Silver Medal
was awarded.

J. W. MoORE, Ltd., Bradford, obtained a
Bronze Medal for a group in which were included
Odontoglossums. A large hybrid Cypripedium,
called C. X Bridgeii. var. magnifica, was the best
flower in the group.

S. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr. Mr.
Cypher), sent four good Odontoglossums, two of
which received awards.

E. AsHWORTH, Esq., Wilmslow (gr. Mr. Hol-
brook), exhibited Laelia x purpurata Digbyana,
" Harefieid Hall variety."

Messrs. H. Low& Co., Enfield, exhibited Odon-
toglossum crispum, var. "Jeanette," and O. c.
var. "xanfliotes," Low's variety.

A. J. Keeling & Sons, Bradford, received a
vote of thanks for a small group of mixed Orchids.

First-Class Certificate.
This was awarded to Cypripedum X Bridgeii,
var. magnifica, shown by J. \V. Moore, Ltd.

Awards of Mekit.
Awards of A'erit were granted to Odontoglossum
crispum, var. Starlight, " Gratrix 's variety,"
O. X ardentissimum, var. " Princess Ena,"
both from S. Gratrix, Esq. ; Cattleya Triansc,
var. Juna, from Messrs. j. Cypher & Sons,
and Dendrobium x Cybele, Mitchell's var., from
E. Mitchell, Esq. P. W.

MIDLAND DAFFODIL.

April 35, 116. — The eighth annual show under
the auspio6s-of this Society was opened on
Wednesday last in the Exhibition Hall, Botani-
cal Gardens, Birmingham. The date was rather
a late one, and possibly a few days too late to
have a perfect exhibition, but visitors from the
south were surprised to find that Midland
blooms were so late as they were, and the show
suffered much less from the late date than was
thought to be probable beforehand. The
weakest group was the Trumpet or Magni
coronati section, the flowers of which pass over
earlier than those in the other groups. The
Narcissus flowers, with Tulips, and a large
number of non-competitive exhibits of varied
character made an attractive display, and in
some cases the Narcissus flowers were of quite
exceptional merit, especially those shown bv
Mr. ('rosfield, Mrs. Berkelky and Mr. Wil-
son. Of the new varieties five gained Awards
of Merit and one a First-Class Certificate.

The show was formally opened by the
Covntess of Dartmouth, and it was visited by
a large number of people, among those expected

being the Rt. Hon. Joseph Chamberlain, M.P.
There wera numerous visitors from London and
the southern counties.

Mixed Class.
The most important class was one for a col-
lection of fifty varieties, to represent each of
the three groups Magni coronati, Medio coro-
nati and Parvi coronati, but excluding Polyan-
thus Narcissus. There were as many as five
exhibits, and the first prize was awarded to a
collection from Mr. E. M. Crosfield, Little
Acton, Wrexham. Several seedlings were in-
cluded such as Banzai, the extremely large sul-
phur-coloured Trumpet variety exhibited last
season. Mrs. Ernest Crosfield, another large
Trumpet flower, but having a rather smaller-
sized perianth, and less frilled, more funnel-
shaped trumpet than in the case of Banzai. In-
damora, also a Trumpet variety, was a fine
novelty. Most of the remaining flowers were of
known varieties, and their merit consisted in
the excellent culture they exhibited. Messrs.
Pope & Son, .King's Norton and Birmingham,
were second with a collection showing consider-
able merit, and Mr. A. S. Leslie Melville,
Branston Hall, Lincoln, third.

Ajax or Trumpet Daffodils.

Mr. R. C. Cartwright, King's Norton, won
the first prize in the class for twelve distinct
varieties, showing (ilory of Leiden, Madame de
Graaff, Emperor, Empress, M. J. Berkeley,
Grandis, Victoria, Mrs. Camm, Captain Nel-
son, Mrs. W. T. Ware, J. B. M. Camm, and
Madame Plemp. As many as five prizes were
awarded in this class ; those of the second and
third degree being obtained by Messrs. F.
Impev & Son, Midland Spring Gardens, North-
field, and Messrs. Pope & Son, King's Norton,
respectively.

In the class for six varieties, those in the win-
ning collection from Mr. W. A. Watts, St.
Asaph, were P. R. Barr, Emperor, Mrs. Walter
Ware, Madame de Graaff, Empress and Gran-
dis ; Mr. S. S. Jo.nes, Prees, won second prize,
and included five good flowers of Glory of Lei-
den.

INCOMPARABILIS OR CuP DAFFODILS.

Mr. A. M. Wilson won the first prize in the
largest class for twelve varieties, his selections
being as follow: — White Lady, Orangeman,
Waterwitch, Barri conspicuus, Gloria Mundi,
Minnie Hume, Crown Prince, Katherine Spur-
rell, Easter, Branston, White Slave, and Cas-
tile. This collection was very pretty indeed,
the varieties Orangeman, Minnie Hume, and
Barri conspicuus being excellent. Second, Mr.
A. S. Leslie Melville, Branston Hall, Lin-
coln, who was followed by Messrs. Pope & Son.

In the class for six varieties, those which
gained the first prize for Mr. C. L. Branson,
Coleshill Park Gardens, Coleshill, were Barn
conspicuus, Stella superba, Mrs. Langtry, Cy-
nosure, Nelson's Major, and Flora Wilson.
The second prize was awarded to Mr. S. S.
Jones, Prees, whose collection included V.
Miles and George Nicholson ; third, Mr. Gum-
BLETON, Twyning Manor, Tewkesbury.

Poeticus or Flat-Crowned Daffodils.

In the class for six distinct varieties the win-
ning collection from Mr. A. M. Wilson, East
Keal, Spilsby, contained the varieties Blood
Orange, Firebrand, Gleam, Beacon, Sequin,
and Concord. In all but the variety Sequin
the crowns had rich orange colour in more or
less degree. Second, Mr. A. S. Leslie Mel-
ville, Branston Hall, Lincoln ; and third, Mr.
R. E. Cartwright.

The best collection of six varieties of true
"Poeticus" Narcissus was exceedingly interest-
ing, since some of the many good varieties
raised by Mr. Engleheart have come into
commerce. Mr. A. M. Wilson, ICast Keal, ob-
tained the first prize for the following selec-
tion : — Juliet, Chaucer, Virgil, Homer, Horace,
and Almira. These flowers run very near to
each other in general appearance, Virgil being
one of the best. Second, Mr. F. Herbert
Chapman, Guldeford Lodge, Rye ; and Messrs.
Pope & Son obtained third prize.

Orange-Coloured Varieties.
Narcissus having orange-coloured cups or
crowns are much more plentiful than formerly,
and it is an easy matter to select a dozen of
these varieties. Those contained in the stand
which was awarded the first prize were
as follow: — Lobster, Blood Orange, Gloria

Mundi, Albatross, Mars, Branston, Flamin-
go, Lucifer, Mabel Cowan, Crown Prince, Lul-
worth, and Maurice de Vilmorin. Second, Messrs.
Pope & Son, who had good flowers of Will
Scarlet, Orangeman, and Ida Pope ; third, Mr.
R. C. Cartwright.

In the class in which the selection was
limited to six varieties, those following were
exhibited in the collection from Mr. W.
A. Watts, St. Asaph, which was awarded the
first prize: — l^eauty, Barri conspicuus, Crown
Prince, Ornatus, Poetarum, and Flora Wilson.
Mr. S. Jones obtained second prize in. this
class.

Single Blooms.

There were classes for the best single bloom
in each of the four groups, and the winning
varieties were as follow: — Magru coronati,
" Evadne " ; Medio coronati, " Homespun " ;
Parvi coronati, " Concord " ; and true Poeticus
type " Epic.'' The variety Concord is very re-
markable for its good form, the symmetry
being perfect.

Inexpensive Daffodils.

Varieties that may be purchased at ten
shillings a dozen or less were found in a class for
12 distinct varieties. Those which obtained
first prize for Mr. J no. Sceaney were as fol-
lows:— Emperor, Empress, Victoria, Mrs.
Langtry, C. J. Backhouse, Minnie Hume, King
Edward VII., Flora Wilson, Beauty, Grandee,
Barri conspicuus, and Albicans.

In the more restricted class, with the same
limitation as to cost as in the previous
class, the first prize collection included the varie-
ties Emperor, Cynosure, Ornatus, Grandee,
Flora Wilson, and Mrs. Langtry.

A class was arranged for varieties costing not
more than five shillings per dozen, and Mr. C. W.
.Smallwood, TuUamaine, Solihull, obtained
first prize for the varieties Glory of Leiden,
Grandis, Barri conspicuus, Katherine Spurrell,
Ornatus, and Vanessa.

Messrs. Pope and .Son offered five prizes for
collections of six varieties of Narcissus, none of
which cost more than three shillings per dozen.
Those in the first prize collection from Mr. JNO.
Sceaney, 30, Nursery Road, Harborne, were
Emperor, Victoria, Ornatus, Mrs. Langtry, Em-
press, and Barri conspicuus.

Seedlings and New Varieties.

In the following classes prizes were offered for
new varieties. 'Ihe largest class called for 13
varieties which have not been in commerce for
as long a period as four years. The first prize
for these was won by E. M. Crosfield, Esq.,
Little Acton, Wrexham, who had, in addition
to two varieties described below as gaining
Awards of Merit, the following flowers: — Cha-
peau, Herod, Broadwing, Rosalind, Sceptre,
Countess of Stamford, Dairy Maid, Ethelbert,
Fire Clay, and Adonis.

The varieties in the first prize exhibit of Parvi
Coronati seedlings were Pilgrim, Mercury and
Ruby, from Mr. C. H. Cave, Rodway Hill
House, Mangotsfield, near Bristol. Pilgrim is
one of true Poeticus type ; Mercury has a
large, sulphur-coloured perianth and spreading,
yellow crown ; but Ruby has a pure white peri-
anth, of true Poeticus type, with a spreading
crown, wholly of rich orange-red colour — a very
fine flower. There were pretty varieties in the
other exhibits, particularly Ceres in the second
prize collection, being pure white in the peri-
anth with a lemon shade of yellow in the crown,
which IS spreading.

In the Medio Coronati section the three best
seedlings were Rufus, with white perianth, and
most vivid orange-coloured cup ; Milkmaid, sul-
phur-white entirely ; and Imari, with perianth
sulphur-white and cup with orange-coloured
margin, and shading of yellow in the interior.

In the Magni Coronati section the first prize
was awarded to the seedlings named as follows :
Icebsrg, a sulphur-yellow coloured self ; Hebe,
having pale sulphur-coloured perianth and
deeper coloured trumpet ; and Semiramis, of the
same shades as tlie flower just described, but
having a frilled trumpet.

AWARDS.

Narcissui ^^ TLrday — A flower of large size,
good form, belonging to the Parvi Coronati
group. Colour of perianth sulphur ; crown,
which is spreading, red, with orange further
from margin. Shown by E. M. Crosfield,
Esq. (.\ward of Merit.)

Ai'uiL 28, 1900.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

271

A'. "Fiona." — A large trumpet Daffodil, with
perianth of very pale sulphur colour, and long,
shapely trumpet, with Irill of deeper shade
than perianth. Shown by E. M. Croskield,
lisq. (Award of Merit.)

A'. Ked Ensign. — A Parvi Coronati variety,
with white, or extremely pale sulphur, perianth,
with imbricate segments, and Hat, somewhat
spreading, orange-coloured crown. From Messrs.
j. R. Pf.ar.son i.*c Sons. (Award of Merit.)

N. Mrs. Ernest Crosfield. — A large Ajax or
trumpet Daffodil, nearly white, with very pale
sulphur-coloured trumpet. The perianth-seg-
ments incurve, and the long trumpet has a broad
and crimped frill. From E. M. Ckosfield, Esq.
(First Class Certificate.)

A'. Masterpiece. — A very finely-formed circular
flower, of moderate size, and belonging to the
I'arvi Coronati group. Perianth white, or pa'.e
sulphur, and the spreading crown of unusually
deep orange colour. From Messrs. Bakr &
Sons. (Award of Merit.)

A'. Easter. — An incomparabilis or Medio Co-
ronati flower, with white perianth of very good
form, and clear yellow cup, also of perfect form.
Shown by Mr. A. M. Wilson. (Award of Merit.)

Miscellaneous Classes.

The best collection of four varieties of double
Daffodils contained Primrose Phoenix, Sulphur
Phoenix (also known as Codlings and Cream),
Orange Phoenix (Eggs and Bacon), and Butter
and Eggs. The exhibit was from Mr. W. A.
Watts.

The best six pots of Polyanthus Narcissus were
shown by Mr. R. C. Cartwright, King's Nor-
ton, Mrs, MusTON, 28, Cavendish Road, Edg-
baston, being awarded second prize. In a class
for the best collection of six pots of any varieties
of Daffodils distinct, Mr. R. Usher (gr. to J.
Archibald Herrick, Esq., Harborne House,
Harborne) showed ]. B. Camm, Duchess of
Westminster, Victoria, Mrs. Langtry, Mad.
Plemp, and Emperor, for which he obtained the
first prize.

Mr, R. C. Cartwright had six very pretty
vases of Spanish Irises, and was awarded the
first prize. Mr. Cartwright had also a first
prize for a group of 12 pots of any varieties of
Narcissus.

Mr. J. A. Kenrick, Barrow Court, Edgbaston,
had the best collection of six pots of varieties of
Tulips.

The best 12 pots of single Tulips were shown
by Mr. R. C. Cartwright, his plants showing
very fine development.

Dixorative Classes.

Sprays of Narcissus were arranged with much
taste, and for such a purpose the Parvi Coro-
nati and Medio Coronati flowers are preferable.
The best exhibit of three sprays was adjudged
to be orke Irom Mr. S. S. Jones, Frees, Messrs.
Pope & Sons, King's Norton, being awarded
second prize.

There were numerous exhibits in a class for a
group of cut Daffodils arranged on a round
table, suitable for a drawing-room. The first
prize was gained by Messrs, t*'. Impey is: Sons,
Northfield, and Nlessrs. Pope & Sons were
second.

The best epergne of Daffodils was arranged
by Messrs. iMPEi' & Sons, the Rev, J, Jacob
being second.

Messrs. Impey & Sons had also first prize
for a basket of cut bloom, there being much
competition in that class,

Honorarv Exhibits.

Mrs, Berkeley, of Spetchley, Worcester, ex-
hibited the most remarkable collection of
flowers of those not entered for competition.
The varieties were of the very choicest, and the
flowers so fine, that in some cases better speci-
mens have never been exhibited. Perhaps the
most extraordinary were the flowers of White
tlueen, which showed wonderful development,
but all were above average merit. Charles
WoUey Dod, Cormorant, Golden Bell, Wear-
dale Perfection, Great Warley, Earl Grey, and
others represented the " trumpet " varieties,
and among the " cup " Daffodils such effective
varieties were staged as Will Scarlet, Occident,
Lucifer, Seneschal, &c. In addition, there were
Rhymester, Dante, Ben Jonson, F'pic, and
numerous others. A piece of silver plate was
awarded for this exhibit.

Messrs. B.MCER's, Wolverhampton and Cod-
sail, exhibited a prettily-arranged rockwork, in

the form of a bank, sloping from one of the
side walls near the platform. The three most
prominent plants on the rockwork were Saxi-
fraga pyramidalis, Incarvillea Delavayi, and
Cypripedium spectabile, there being good
groups of each of these species, in full flower.
Primula cashmeriana, and other species of
Primula, Aubrietias Prichard's A I., and Dr.
Mules, Fritillarias, Iris pumila aurea, and the
double Welsh Poppy (Meconopsis cambrica
fi. pi.) were other interesting plants in the ex-
hibit. (Gold Medal.)

Messrs, Gilbert & Son, Anemone Nurseries,
Bourne, Lincolnshire, had flowers of the double
Anemone " King of Scarlets," and the bright
variety of A. fulgens known as Scarlet Wind-
flower, also of the St. Brigid Anemones and a
select variety of Tulips. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. W. Cctbush & Sons, Highgate, Lon-
don, N., and Barnet, Herts, had a group of
plants in which were included " Mollis "
Azaleas, Rhododendron mvrtifolium, the ram-
bler Rose, '' Mrs. F. W. Flight," and the Poly-
antha variety Mrs. William H. Cutbush ; also
some F'erns and other shade-loving plants.
Trillium grandiflorum and T. erythrocarpum,
this latter a strong-growing plant with red mark,
ings on the segments of the flower ; Pyxidan-
thera barbatula, a North American shade-loving
plant with white flowers only half an inch high,
and a number of indigenous species of Orchids
were among the plants which attracted atten-
tion. (Large Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Hewitt & Co., Solihull and Birming-
ham, staged a fine group of mixed flowering
plants, in which stan.lard Lilacs, Laburnums,
also Deutzias, Lilies, Azaleas, Roses, Weigela,
and many other varieties were included. (Silver
Gilt Medal.)

Messrs. Randall & Sons, 46, City Arcades,
and Hatfield Nurseries, Shirley, Birmingham,
exhibited cut flowers of tree Carnations in many
of the popular varieties, the specimens being ot
large size and of well-developed colours.
(Bronze Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, contributed one of the .largest
non-competitive displays of Narcissus flowers,
in which the various sections were represented
by numerous varieties, of which perhaps the
largest trumpet section was weakest. The best
yellow trumpet variety shown was King Alfred,
and by its side one of the newer varieties of
the 'Phoenix" section, known as "Apricot"
Phcenix, was very pretty. Lady Margaret Bos-
cawen, with its very large, white perianth and
yellow trumpet, was conspicuous, and there
were several unnamed seedlings of promise.
(Gold Medal.)

Messrs. GuNN & Sons, Olton, Birmingham,
staged pot Lilacs, Spiraea media (confusai, and
in front and below these a collection of Alpine
and other flowering plants, arranged over Moss-
covered cork in such a manner as to represent
rockwork. The effect was good. (Silver
Medal.)

Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, 22, Mary Street,
Dublin, had an exhibit of Tulip and Narcissus
flowers. This firm always shows Tulips well,
and on this occasion the Narcissus flowers con-
stituted a very choice collection of the Medio
Coronati section chiefly, with such trumpet sorts
as Brigadier, Mme. de Graaff, Glory of Leiden,
Mrs. F. W. Moore, &c. The "cup" Daffodil,
Mrs. C. R. Hamilton, was very beautiful. (Sil-
ver Gilt Medal.)

Messrs. W. Simpson & Sons, Birmingham,
contributed a group in which the flowers of
selected varieties of Narcissus were relieved by
the introduction of a few pots containing Nar-
cissus plants in flower, the foliage of "which had
a very good effect amongst the flowers. A
" pot " of Mme. de Graaff was very fine. (Silver
Gilt Medal.)

A group of Tulips was staged by Mr, J, W.
Cross, Old Grammar School, Wisbech, in which
many varieties were included, and the flowers
were of good quality, but insufficient attention
had been given to the matter of arranging them
effectively. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. J. R. Pearson & Sons, Chilwell Nur-
series, Lowdham, Notts, arranged a table very
prettily with Narcissus flowers, but the Parvi
Coronati and Medio Coronati section were
much predorrinant. Of the " trumpet " sec-
tion, however, there were Madame de Graaff and
Glory of Leiden. Of the newer varieties. Fir-
mine with very large white perianth and short
yellow cup, Red Ensign with sulphur-coloured

perianth, and brilliant orange-red-coloured
corona were charming. (Large Silver Medal.)

The only Sweet Peas in the show were in a
collection from Mr. Robert Sydenham, Tenby
Street, Birmingham. He had about two dozen
bouquets of these arranged in glasses, and re-
presenting some of the most popular varieties.
In size and colour they were very good for Sweet
Peas sown in pots in September. Mr. Syden-
ham had also Narcissus, Tulips, and Lily of the
Valley growing and flowering well in Moss fibre,
and a collection of Tulips from the open bor-
der. (Silver Gilt Medal.)

Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge Nurseries, Farn-
ham, Surrey, put up vases of American varieties
of tree Carnations, the flowers being of extra
fine quality. The varieties included Nelson
Fisher, The Belle, Mrs. Thomas W. Lawson,
Enchantress, Harry Fenn, &c. Flowers of the
double Stock "All the Year Round" were
powerfully fragrant and of bold habit. (Silver
Medal.)

From the Labelliflos Nurseries, Voorscho-
ten, Holland, came a collection of cut flowers
of Hippeastrums, some of which were remark-
able either for their coloration or unusual size.
(Large Silver Medal.)

Zonal Pelargonium flowers were shown by Mr,
Vincent Slade, Staplegrove Nurseries, Taun-
ton, Somerset, in numerous varieties, and ar-
ranged in green stands. (Large Silver Medal.)

Several seedlings were shown by Mr. W. I"". M.
Copeland, Stone, one named Chinese (iordon
being remarkable for its large perianth and
richly-coloured, noble-looking trumpet.

The Rev, G. H, Engi eheart, Dinton, Salis-
bury, had an exhibit, in which some very choice
seedlings of the Parvi Coronati and Medio Co-
ronati groups. The flowers were nearly all un-
named, and, therefore, we need not refer to
them in detail. But one distinguished by the
number "300" was very remarkable. The
flowers were of large size, having a spreading
white perianth and curiously-crimped crown of
various shades of yellow and white, so crimped
as to suggest that we may yet see " crested "
Daffodils^ like the crested Begonias and other
flowers. " Polestar " is a very larger stellate
flower with flat, spreading crown of yellow.
(.■\Iedal.)

Messrs. BiCK Bros , Olton, Birmingham, sent
a small collection of Saxifragas, Sempervivums,
.\ew Zealand Veronicas, and Auricul;is.

C. Winn, Esq., Selly Hill, Birmin^'ham,
staged nine well-flowered A'lriculas,

NATIONAL AURICULA AND PEIMULA
(MIDLAND SECTION).

.'\PHIL 25, 26. — The seventh annual exhibition
in the Botanical Gardens, Edgbaston, was cer-
tainly one of the best exhibitions ever held by
the society. The North and South met to-
gether, and the South was well to the front.
The leading class (six distinct) Show Auriculas
was represented by six exhibitors. Mr. JAS.
Douglas, of Great Bookham, Surrey, was first
with refined plants of Favourite and Mikado
sells. Acme and Vesta white edgSs, Lapwing
and Abbe Liszt green edges. W. B, Cranfield,
I'lsq., Enfield, was a good second with Abbe
Liszt, Shirley Hibberd, George Lightbody (this
also won as the Premier flower). Acme, and
George Rudd, Mr, Wm. Shifsian third.

For four Show Auriculas Mr. Douglas was
again first with Mrs. Kenwood, Vesta, Mrs.
Phillips, and .\braham Burke. W. B. Cran-
field was a very close second (nine exhibitors).

J. W. Bentley, Esq., was in the first posi-
tion with a splendid pair Favourite and Shir-
ley Hibberd (eight exhibitors).

In singles the awards were late in being
put on, but Mr. Cranfield was first in the
class for flowers of white and grey edges.

Mr. J. Douglas was first and second for seed-
ling Show Auriculas with Prince Charming and
Lapwing green edges, both flowers of great re-
finement. These two also received First Class
Certificates.

In the class for Alpine Auriculas Mr. jAS.
Douglas was first for six with good, well-de-
fined trusses of Golden Disc, Ettrick (very fine,
both new), Urania, Teviotdale, J. F. Kew, and
Duke of York. Charles Winn, Esq., Selly Hill,
Birmingham, was a good second. Mr. Bentley
third (six exhibitors).

Charles Winn, Esq., was first for four
Alpines with Thetis, Mrs, Danks, Duke of York,

272

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[April 28, JSOG.

and Richard Dean. Mr. Douglas second. Mr.
Holding, Bournville, third (nine exhibitors).

There were 10 exhibitors for two Alpines. Mr.
E. Da.nks, of Aston, was first. Mr. Holding
second, with exceedingly refined and well-de-
veloped flowers.

There were 39 exhibitors in the yellow and
white ground singles, but the names of the
winners were not on their cards, although space
was left for this purpose.

Among what are termed maiden-growers, Mr.
A. Wadlev was easily first with two superb
blooms, Mrs. Gorton (gold centre) and J. }•'. Kew
(cream).

In a class for three Alpines (local growers)
there were no fewer than nine exhibitors. Mr.
K. Holding was easily first with Unexpected,
Miss Aston, and J. F. Kew. Mr. Bentley had
the best gold-laced Polyanthus in George the
Fourth ; and the best Polyanthus and Primroses
were sent by Mr. W. M. Shipman. The Pre-
mier Alpine was J. F. Kew from Mr. E. Danks.

HUNTINGDONSHIRE DAFFODIL AND
SPRING FLOWER.

April 19. — The first show in connection with
the above society was held at Huntingdon on this
date, and proved a great success. The competitive
entries were numerous, and these were largely
augmented by trade exhibits.

Messrs. Barr cS: Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, received the Society's Award of
Merit for Narcissus Dr. Kennard and N. I-'eter
Barr.

Messrs. J. R. Pearson, Lowdham, also received
Awards of Merit for two Narcissi, N. Dulse of
Leinster and N. Florence Pearson.

Mr. J. Mallender, Worksop, gained an Award
of Merit for a seedling white trumpet Daffodil of
good substance, and this flower also gained first
place in the competitive classes.

Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, had a
splendid exhibit of Daffodils, while Mr. J. W.
Cross staged an exhibit of Tulips, Daffodils and
Anemones which was much admired.

Miss WiLMOTT, Great Warley, staged a batch of
seedling Narcissi which was a feature of the
show, especially pleasing being hybrids from
Queen of Spain and Triandrus.

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Peterboro', had a dis-
play of Carnations, Roses, flowering trees, &.C.,
while Messrs. J. E. Perkins, Huntingdon, showed
Tritonias, Carnations and the new Rose "Lady
Gay."

In the competitive classes Messrs. J. Mal-
lender, H. R. Darlington, H. B. Young and
Miss L. L. Linton, the energetic secretary, were
conspicuous prize-winners.

All concerned may be heartily congratulated
upon the result of the first show, which promises
well for the future.

James Petrie Bisset. — This greatly esteemed
gentleman died at his residence. Wynndun,
Banchory-Ternan, Deeside, some eighteen miles
from Aberdeen, on Tuesday, April 17, in his sixty-
eighth year. Born at Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Mr.
Bisset entered the service of the North of Scotland
Bank, Ltd., and later went to Shanghai, China,
where in the course of time he founded the firm of
Messrs. J. P. Bisset & Co. In 1876 Mr. Bisset
retired from active business life, and selected
Banchory as his place of residence. He acquired
some distinction as a botanist, and was a specialist
in the Desmideae. In January, 1884, he read a
paper before the Royal Microscopical Society on dis-
coveries he had made in the neighbourhood of Lake
Windermere in 1883. He also wrote in conjunction
with the late Mr. John Roy, LL.D., Aberdeen,
articles for the June and July numbers of the
Joiiyiial of Botany, 1SS6, on "Notes on the Japanese
Desmids." Another informative article from his
pen was on Scottish Desmideae, which appeared
in the Annals of Scottish Natural History, 1893-94.

Jan Hendrick Kersten. — We regret to
record the death of this well-known continental
nurseryman, senior partner and founder of the
firm of J. H. Kersten & Co., Heemstede, Holland.
Deceased, who was 74 years of age, retired from
active business about two vears since.

Robert Kenyon. — It is in great sorrow that I
write to record the death of Mr. R. Kenyon, who
died on March 27. Less than a year ago he went
to America to Mr. J. Ash, La Plaisance, Pomfret
Centre. Connecticut, but of this gentleman or the
place I have no particulars. The late Mr. Kenyon,
when gardener to A. F. Hills, Esq., Monkhams,
Woodford Green, Essex, was well known as a
successful grower of Chrysanthemums, and he
exhibited them regularly and successfully at the
show of the National Chrysanthemum Society,
both in the class for 60 blooms shown in vase^
and in that for 48 Japanese blooms distinct.
Deceased was a member of the committee of the
National Chrysanthemum Society. His kindly
disposition endeared him to all. He was possessed
with extraordinary vigour and liked plenty of work,
and not even his intimate friends had any idea that
he suffered from heart trouble. I have no particu-
lars as to his age, but he was, I think, about 40
years old. He leaves a widow, in whose arms he
died, but no family. A. Jefferies.

Liverpool Botanic Garden. — Mr. Hackett
of Kew has been appointed curator of these gar-
dens in succession to Mr. Gutteridge who is now
chief superintendent of parks and gardens.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Cherries : L. F. The lime and kainit, if applied
in proper quantities, would be likely to do good.
Take means to ascertain that the border is well
supplied with moisture. Cherry trees are prone
to flower abundantly, and we have known cases
in which a timely thinning out of the blossoms
has brought about a better set of fruits, for if
the thinning is done sufficiently early, the re-
maining blossoms gather increased strength.

Grapes diseased : T. H. and L. G. M. The
berries are affected with the "spot" disease —
Glaeosporium ampelophagum. Remove and burn
all the diseased berries and spray the remaining
ones with liver of sulphur, using ^ ounce
of the sulphur to one gallon of water. —
A. E. G. Your Grapes are rusted, and
moreover are showing signs of "spot," see
above answer. The Peach leaves are affected
with silver leaf disease. You will find an account
of these diseases in many back numbers, and
in the Gardener's Calendar, which you can pro-
cure from our publisher for l\d.

Italian Gardening Paper : O L. Bulletino
della Societa Toscana di Orticoltura, is the only
one we know, 31, Via San Gallo, Firenze.

Names OF Plants : G. W.J. Primula verticillata.
— ■/. C. .All forms of Rhododendron formosum.
— R. S. P. 1, Asplenium salicifolium ; 2,
Guizotia abyssinica ; 3, Linum austriacum. —
/. B. Amygdalus nana. — G. J. Y. 1, Berberis
Darwinii ; 2, Berberis empetrifolia ; 3, B.
nepalensis ; 4, Cassinia fulvida ; 5, Andromeda
floribunda ; 6, Juniperus chinensis. — J. W. 1,
Codiaeum (Croton) variegatum ; 2, C. Wise-
manni ; 3, C. Aigburthense ; 4, C. majesticum ;
5, C. Mrs. Dormer ; 6, (probably) picturatum.
— A. W. Schizanthus pinnatus. — E. P. Co.
Saponaria ocymoides. — Raeomitrinm. Why not
number your plants ? The flower is Crocosmia
aurea. The smallest leaf is Rhamnus Alaternus.
The two others we do not recognise. — if. N . H.
A, Odontoglossura Adrianae x ; B, O. Ander-
sonianum. S. 1'. 1, 2, 3, forms of Cattleya
intermedia ; 4, Peperomia argyrea.

Onions : T. L. You omit to say what variety of
Onion was sown, and, of course, there is the
possibility that the seed was not true to name.
If the seeds were true, and the variety one such
as is generally selected for garden cultivation,
the plants may be expected to form bulbs
eventually. They will not become Leeks.

Painting Glasshouses : C. S.B.Coles. Consult
a local painter. Much will depend upon the
condition of the houses, and the price of labour
in your particular district.

Peach shoot diseased: A.T. The branch was
much withered when we received it, but we
suspect the diseased condition is due to fungus
at the roots. This often causes Silver-leaf
disease, the fungus forming a fluid ferment
which is absorbed into the tissue of the plant.
Remove the diseased portions of the tree and

train in some young wood. In the autumn lift
the plant and thoroughly examine its roots,
when, if fungus is found present, cleanse them
with a weak solution of permanganate of potash.

Pelargoniums: E. B. The cuttings appear to
have been potted too deeply, and to have rotted
from excess of water. Fungus comes to com-
plete the mischief. Next season try cuttings
from a source other than your own.

Saxifraga Ferdinandi CoBURGi: Correction. Foi
intricate read imbricate.

ToMATOs : R. E. H. The plants are over vigor-
ous, and have apparently been grown in too
stuffy an atmosphere, with not sufficient ventila-
tion. See an illustrated article on the subject
in our columns for June 3, 190-5.

Training Vines : P. S. K. Young Vines newly
planted should be cut as hard back as possible,
tor the lower they are cut down the stronger
will they grow. But in the case of Vines that
are more or less established, the severity of
pruning must be determined by the strength
of the stem or the vigour of the plant. The
temptation is great to leave a long rod on the
young Vine, but in pruning or shortening a
main stem the point to be kept in view is the
power of the plant to form strong shoots from
all the buds left. A healthy plant with stem of
the thickness of one's thumb may be allowed
some four or five feet of new stem. It is better,
however, to err on the side of severity when
pruning the main stems of Vines. Never on
any account leave unripened wood.

Tulips and Narcissus : T. L. All varieties of
Tulips and Narcissus produce flowers when the
individual bulb is old enough, strong enough,
and the conditions of cultivation are favourable.
Your plants have failed to flower this season
because the embryo flowers were not formed
last year, and this was doubtless due to lack of
strength. Later in the season let them be lifted
and replanted. See also reply on p. 240 to Geo.
E.

Tulips; S.K. Your bulbs are affected with the
Tulip mould, for which there is no cure.
Better burn the bulbs and take care not to
plant in the same soil next year.

Vine and Datura leaves injured : B. B. The
Vine leaves are affected with the "warty"
disease, a condition due to intumescence of the
tissue, but what causes this outgrowth is not
known, although it is generally regarded as the
result of growing the Vines in a too moist
atmosphere. The Datura leaves have probably
been eaten by weevils, and the reason you have
failed to detect them is that they appear princi-
pally at nighttime, hiding during the day Trap
them with pieces of vegetable such as Potato,
Carrot, or Turnip.

Vine : A . S. There is no trace of disease present
caused by either fungi or insects. The injury is
caused by the leaves having too much moisture
upon them during hot sunshine, which induces
scalding. Plenty of ventilation early in the
morning is necessary to remedy the evil.

West African Orchids ; N. H. The enumera-
tion of the species of African Orchids occupies
276 pages of the Flora of Tropical Africa — so
that you can hardly expect us to pick out for you
what you want. Eulophia, Ansellia, and Lisso-
chilus are among the most showy genera. Fifteen
or sixteen pages of the catalogue of Wehvitsch's
African plants, principally from the south-western
tropics, are occupied with the enumeration of
species of this order. If you wish to send West
African Orchids to this country tor commercial
purposes, it will be better for you first to learn
what species can be sold here to advantage, and
this information must be obtained from those
engaged in the trade.

Wood Preserving: L. S. C. On p. 430 of our
issue for December 17, 1904, will be found
details of a simple process invented by Mr.
Powell for preserving wood. The principal
feature of the process is the use of sugar as
the preservative. Sugar would be in no way
injurious to plants.

Communications Received. —G. P. H.— G. H.— J. W. —
L. B. (New York)— J. Burtt Davy (Transvaal)— Basil
Levitt— J. G.— A. H.— E. H. 1.— T. E. H.— G. P. H.—
T. S.— W. G. S.— G. S. B. & Co.— H. R.— J. D. G. M.—
J. G.^E. H. J.— E. T. C— Dobbie & Co.— F. B.— A. C. H.
(next week)— A. W — S. W. F.— J. V. & Sons— E. T. C—
F. W.— Hortus— J. M.— W. K.— J. C. M.— 1. F. R.—
J. J. P.— Lady K.-R. P. B.-E. Y.-B. St. J. A.
For Martict Reports .sec pa^c x.

Supplement to the "Gardeners Chronicle."

Kalanchoe Dyert ; a species from Nyassa-Land, flowers white.
From the Colt-ection of Messrs. Jas. Veitch and Sons.

Temple Tress I-td., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, H.C.

May 5, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

\i6

THE

#itrbcncrs'CbronicIc

No. hOW.— SATURDAY, May 5, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Birmingham Botanic
Gardens 281

Birmingham parks,
bulbous flowers in the 282

Boilers, greenhouse ... 284

-Books, notices of —

Hortus Veitchii ... 280
Publications received 282

Brasso-Cattleya, " The
Baron" 281

Eucalyptus in Jersey ... 281

Plowers in season ... 282

Hippeastrum seedling,
an interesting 275

Irises, oncocyclus ... 273

Lilium candidum seed-
ing 283

Liverpool Botanic Gar-
dens, newcuratorat... 281

Narcissus, a fungoid
disease of 277

Nursery Notes —
Barr & Sons. Ditton... 277
R.H.tBath, Ltd., Wis
bech 277

Nurseryman as magis-
trate 282

Obituary-
Berkeley, Rose E. ... 287
Mansfield, Earl of ... 287

Orchid, a malformed .. 282

Orphan Fund, Royal
Gardeners' 282

Picea morindoides ... 274

Plant notes —
Celsia arcturus ... 276

Cestrum Smithii ... 276
Jasminum nitidum ... 276
Lobelia tenuior ... 276

Plants, new or note-
worthy—

Mexican Eupatoriums
Primrose, with crumpled

petals, a

Prunus Pissardi fruiting

in Scotland

Rhododendron mandu-

lum

Saxifragas, yellow-
flowered species of ...
Seeds packed for the

tropics

Societies —

Beckenham Horticul-
tural

British Gardeners' .As-
sociation ... 282,

Brussels Horticultural

Dutch Horticultural
and Botanical

Horticultural Club ...

Manchester and North
of England Orchid

National Chrysanthe-
mum

National Sweet Pea ...

Royal English Arbori-
cultural

Royal Horticultural 281
Strawberries injured ...
Strawberries, support-
ing the fruit trusses of
Trees and shrubs —

Pyrus spectabilis
Ventnor, the climate of
Week's work, the 278,
Wisley gardens in -April

287

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Brasso-Cattleya " The Baron " (Supplementary Illustra-
tion)

Hippeastrum seedling, an interesting 275

Picea morindoides growing in the Earl of Annesley's
garden at Castlewellan 274

Primrose" Greenwood Pim," a variety having crumpled
petals — 276

Pyrus spectabilis flowering near the Temperate House,
Kew Gardens 283

Ramularia Narcissi, a fungus causing disease tn Daffo-
dils 277

ONCOCYCLUS IRISES.

MR. Jenkins' remarks on raising Oncocy-
clus Irises from seed have tempted
me to say a few words. I have
for many years past raised these
Irises from seed, and have carried some kinds
through three or four generations. Without
these seedHngs some kinds would have dis-
appeared from my garden much more rapidly
than they have done ; but I cannot say that I
have been able to observe any distinct adapta-
tion to the demands of our unfavourable Eng-
lish conditions. A seedling is nearly always,
for a certain length of time, more vigorous
than a plant grown from an offset. If allow-
imce be made for this, the plants raised from
seed are as difficult to rear successfully as are
other plants. The Palestine Oncocycli, for in-
stance, raised from seed are just as trouble-
some as imported ones.

Both Oncocyclus and Regelia Irises go to
seed very freely with me, and this leads me
to suspect that even in their native homes
they may be short-lived, reproducing them-
selves largely from seed. There is no
trouble about getting seed ; the difficulty lies
in raising the plants from seed. The seeds

are very slow and uncertain in germination.
Those sown in the open sprout more freely
than those sown in pots. But, on the other
hand, the seeds sown in a pot are much more
under command than those sown in the
open. The top soil in a pot can be sifted at
any time ; the seeds, being large and easily
handled, can be picked out and sown again.
\ gathering of seed can thus be kept under
observation for many years ; and this is de-
sirable, for, as I have said, germination is
very slow and very uncertain.

When a pod of seed, containing about forty
seeds, is sown so soon as ripe, say in July, in
a pot, and left to itself, the next spring there
may appear one or two plants, or very rarely
a good many more, frequently none at all.
The second year the same varied results may
be obtained, and so in succeeding years. The
pot, however, may remain several years
without any further germination taking place
in it, and then in another year one or two, or
even several plants may appear. I have
therefore been led to keep my seed-pots for
many years, so long indeed as any sound
hard seed remained in the pot. I have thus
raised plants from s.^ed which had been sown
fifteen years previously, and the plants thus
obtained were as vigorous as those which
came from seed which had germinated
quickly. I imagine that if I live I shall find
the period during which the seed remains
alive and capable of germination to be even
longer than the fifteen years which I have
now actually observed.

Some years ago I made a number of ex-
periments with a view to getting more com-
mand over germination. I subjected the seed
to various conditions, but I got no satisfac-
tory result, and since then I have adopted the
practice of leaving the pots in the open,
rarely, if ever, watering them, not protecting
them at all, but simply allowing them to get
such good or harm as they might from rain
or drought, frost or sun.

When the seeds are sown, not in pots, but
in the open border, in prepared seeding beds,
they germinate, as I have said, more freely ;
but it is almost impossible to keep such beds
under inspection and free from weeds, etc.,
for a sufliciently long time. But I have seen
enough to convince me that, even in the open,
seeds may germinate after many years. I find
myself each year hesitating between sowing
seeds in the open bed or in the pot, each
method having its own advantages.

But the difficulties are not over when the
seed germinates. The young Oncocyclus (or
Regelia) Iris grows very, very slowly, and I
lose many of the seedlings in the first vear.
Some, especially the kinds from Palestine
and the hybrids from these, are very apt to
germinate in late autumn, and great care is
then needed to carry them through the fol-
lowing winter, for these tender seedlings can-
not withstand frost.

I take the seedlings from the pot and re-
pot them almost as soon as they appear, and
then grow them singly in pots until they
are large enough to be planted out. This
process retards their growth. Those sow-n in
the open grow more rapidly and strongly,
but, when left in the bed, many of them suc-
cumb in the winter unless most attentively
watched ; they are thrown up out of the soil
by the frost, and if left exposed are killed.

Those, however, which survive come to
flowering estate cirlier than those nurtured
in pots.

.•\fter the first year the difficulties are less.
During the second year some succumb, and
that whether the resting period is secured by
taking them up or putting lights over them ;
but many grow up into good strong plants,
flowering the third, fourth or some later year.
The dinkulties on which I have dwelt are
mainly with the Oncocyclus Irises and their
hybrids. The Regelia Irises are much more
easily dealt with, for these will often flourish
without lifting or drying off with lights
when planted in good rich soil in dry, open
sunny situations. The seed of plants which
have not been hybridised I sow in the open
and leave the seedlings, without taking any
special care of them, in the seed-bed until the
summer of the second year. I then take
them up, " dry them off," and re-plant them
in late autumn. There is no difficulty in
thus obtaining a large number of flowering
plants. The seed-bed, after the removal of
the seedlings, should still be watched as a
seed-bed, for many seedlings will appear in
subsequent years.

With the seed obtained by crossing a Re-
gelia Iris with an Oncocyclus Iris (and I have
had many crosses of this kind) I am naturally
more careful, sowing the seed in pots, or, if I
sow it in the open, I give them special atten-
tion. But the seedlings are much more vigor-
ous, much more easily dealt with than seed-
lings coming from crosses of Oncocyclus
Irises among themselves. The greater
robustness of the Regelian parent, whether
father or mother, makes itself most distinctly
felt in the offspring. All these Regelian
hybrids are more or less beautiful, some of
them exceedingly so ; and I find myself lean-
ing more and more towards them ; they give
a far better return for one's labour than do
the wayward, fugitive Oncocycli.

I have also raised a large number of crosses
between Irises of the Oncocyclus and
Regelia sections with the bearded Irises, I.
pallida and others. The seed of these ger-
minates slowly and uncertainly ; the seedlings
grow for the most part slowly at first, though
some show from the very outset considerable
vigour. The plants thus raised have the ad-
vantage of not needing any summer rest.
They flourish quite well when left to them-
selves. Some are very robust, increasing
rapidly and rarely " go off " ; others do
not do so well, increasing slowly, and show-
ing a tendency to decay in the root stock. As
a rule, moreover, they do not flower freely,
but I find that in this respect they improve if
left undisturbed for several years. Unfortu-
nately none of them possess the rare and
delicate beauty of the pure Oncocyclus or
Regelia type, though some of them come
near to this. Many are grotesque, some even
absolutely ugly, and have to be destroyed.
.'Ml of them are very sterile, whereas the
Onco-Regelian hybrids bear seed freely; in
the course of many years I have only suc-
ceeded, in spite of active pollination, in
getting a score or less of sound seeds from
a large number of blooms, and very few of
these have germinated, so that I see little
chance of taking advantage of the Mendelian
law in respect to them. M. Foster, Sheljord,
April, ii)o6.

274

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[llAY 5, 1906.

PICEA MORINDOIDES.

The historjf of this interesting species has been
given in our columns in a previous issue, p. 2i8,
together with a note by Dr. Henry. It is one of
*he fiat-leaved Spruces, which are so interesting
from their geographical distribution, as well as
from their shapely appearance. From the illus-
tration, for which we are indebted to the courtesy
of the Earl of Annesley, it will be seen that Picea
Morindoides, like its congener P. Omorika, forms
a handsome, symmetrical tree. At present we
have no information as to its cones or as to its
value as a timber tree

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

Purpusi, var. monticola of Brandegee." He also
sends to Kew a few heads from authentic specimens
sent to him by Mr. Brandegee. Referring to the true
E. petiolare of Mogino and Sesse, he well points out
that it is a vigorous shrub (not herbaceous) w-ith
different leaf texture and pubescence, and pubes-
cent achenes, and he remarks that its range of

so imperfectly known. It is, however, an old
garden plant, and was described in 1S47, from
plants in the Berlin Botanic Garden, which had
been cultivated for three years under the name of
E. adenophorum, until it was found not to be
Sprengel's plant of that name. Its habitat is
recorded as ' ' Mexico ' ' (?) The Kew plant is about

MEXICAN EUPATORIUMS.
Three handsome Eupatoriums are now in flower
in the Greenhouse at Kew, and as two of them
have been figured in the Gardeners' Chronicle under
names now known to be incorrect, and the history
of the other is very imperfectly known, the fol-
lowing notes may prove serviceable.

EUPATORIUM PURPDSI.*

This species is a native of Lower California, and
was described by Brandegee in 1899, from speci-
mens collected at San Peblo by Dr. C. A. Purpus
in the preceding yeai . It was soon introduced to
cultivation, for it flowered m the collection of
W. E. Gumbleton, Esq., of Queenstown, in 1901,
and was figured [after reference to Kew] under
the name of E. petiolare, which proves to be
incorrect. Mr. Gumbleton describes it as a very
free-flowering and fragrant species, exhaling a
delicate odour of Vanilla, and a valuable acqui-
sition for the decoration of the greenhouse
at an early season when fiowers are scarce.
He obtained it from Herr H. Henkel, of Darm-
stadt, under the name of E. Purpusi. It is an
erect herbaceous plant, about 6 feet high, with
nearly glabrous stems, cordate, roughly toothed
leaves, and a profusion of corymbose panicles of
beautiful white lieads, which render it a very
ornamental subject.

E. Purpusi var. monticola. f

This plant was described by Brandegee at the
same time as the preceding, from specimen",
collected by himself on high mountains of the
Cape Region, Lower California, in 1899. With it
I identify a plant which was exhibited at a meeting
of the Royal Horticultural Society, on February
23, 1904. by Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, under
the name of E. petiolare, and to which an Award
of Merit was given by the Floral Committee. It
was subsequently figured under that name, which,
however, is incorrect. Brandegee remarks that
the upper portion of the stems, pedicels and
involucres are so glandular-viscid as to catch
numerous small insects, and suggests that it may
prove to be a distinct species. The Kew plant is
about 3 feet high, very straggling in habit,
with thicker leaves, while the viscous character
already pointed out is remarkable. The achenes
are also brown, and slightly scabrid, not nearly
white and smooth, as in E. Purpusi. It certainly
appears specifically distinct, and the name E.
viscosissimumf is suggested as suitable for it.

The determinations were submitted to Dr. B. L.
Robinson, of the Gray Herbarium, Harvard
University, who is studying the genus, and he
replies : " I think you are right in supposing that
the plant represented in Gardeners' Chronicle, 1901,
i.. p. 379, fig. 142, is E. Purpusi, although the
figure shows the pedicels much thicker than they
are in nature. I presume also that fig, 68 in
Gardeners' Chronicle, 1904, i., p. 163, represents E. .

* E. PuRPtsi, Brandegee in Erytkrca, vii., p. 3. E. petio-
lare. Gardeners' Chronicle, 1001, i., p. 379, fig. 142; Kcia
Bulletin, 1902, Appx. 11. 3, p. 86 (not of Mo9ino & Sessi!).

t E. viscosissiMUM, E. Purpusi var. monticola, Brande-
•gee in Erythrca, vii., p. 3. E. petiolare, Ganlcncrs' Chronicle.
1904, i., pp. 142. 163, fij;. 63 toot of Mojino & Sessd).

^AKCTCMW^N «

Fig. 113. — PICEA MORINDOIDES GROWING IN THE EARL OF ANNESLEY's GARDEM. AT
CASTLEWELLAN, CO. DOWN.

habitat from Monterey to southern central Mexico
renders it unlikely that it is identical with E.
Purpusi, which is apparently confined to Lower
California.

E. trapezoideum I
This is a finer plant than the two preceding
species, and it is curious that its history should be

t E. TRAPEZOIDEUM, Kuiitli, lud. Scm. Horl. Bcrol., 18J7,
p. 13.

6 feet high, much branched, with trapezoid-ovate,.
coarsely toothed leaves, and bears very numerous-
corymbose heads of white flowers which are
scented, the fragrance resembling that of Helio-
trope. The achenes are blackish brown in colour
and are smooth. The species does not appear tp
have been figured, though a painting has now
been prepared for Ihc Botanical Maga::ine. R.A.
lioljc.

May 5, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

275

HIPPEASTRUM.

At 1' ig. 114 we publish a reproduction of a
nhotograph kindly sent us by Mr. James
Guttridge, superintendent of the public parks
and gardens at Liverpool. Jlr. Guttridge has
made repeated attempts at the Botanic Gardens
to effect a cross between some of the garden
forms of Hippeastrum and Crinum Powelli, and
the plant illustrated was raised from seed ob-
tained from a flower which had been thus
pollinated. It is entirely different in appear-
ance, writes Mr. Guttridge, to any form of
Hippeastrum in the whole of the collection,
■which numbers some 2,000 plants. On an
inspection of the flower it appeared to us likely
that although an effective cross had probably
not been obtained, the nodding appearance of
the flowers seemed to indicate that the Crinum
pollen had at least some influence on the
Hippeastrum. The specimen was forwarded to
our correspondent, Mr. A. Worsley, Mandeville
House,' J''leworth, who subsequently wrote us
as follows : —

"I have examined the flower. The ovaric-
are abnormal, and the plant probably sterile
It is a form of H. vittatum, a species most con!-
monly used in hybridising, and whose dominant
colour-markings still persist in a very large pr(i-
portion of garden forms in which white is in
evidence. I have found that a proportion ot
garden mongrels revert to the typical markings
of vittatum, even when retaining the form and
size of their parents. I have a number "I
cross-bred plants which revert in this way, and
every year I throw most of them out, althoucjli
occasionally a very fine one occurs. I do nf (
think Mr. Guttridge can ever succeed in crossing
Hippeastrum with Crinum. I made ni,i,n\
attempts ten years ago, and finally abandonee I
the effort as hopeless. Hippeastrum has never
been reconciled with any other genus, not even
with its near ally, Sprekelia. Perhaps if some-
one would reintroduce the lost "link" Hipp.^-
astrum (or Sprekelia) Cybister, we might have
a chance of doing something. Mr. Guttridt;"
will find several similar forms (and crosses) <jI
H. vittatum figured in Bo!. Mag., Bury Hex,
and other works. A. Worsted."

AN APRIL DAY AT WISLEY.

" \\hen proud-pied April, dressed in all \i\^
trim, has put a spirit of youth in everything, '
horticulturists will do well to visit the Wislev
Gardens of the R.H.S., for by old May Day th?
floral spring chapter will have closed ; the fruit-
tree bloom will have fallen, the glorious Nar-
cissi will have faded. It has b?en a cruel Apr;l
for gardeners. On the morning of the 24th ult.,
when I went round, the thermometer had b£eu
as low as 18" ; it had nipped the Struthiopteris ;
but the fine plants of Gunnera manicata were
luckily protected ; the hardier Gunnera scabra,
and even the noble Dicksonia antarctica were
unharmed ; while the nightingale and cuckoo,
heard together for the first time this year, re-
corded their belief that the snowy whirlwind of
the day before was a final compliment from the
departing wintry spring.

The first sight just now to arrest a visitor on
entering is a Prunus Pisjardi, with foliage more
brilliant and jewel-like than any of its brethren
in the garden. Of other flowering trees and
shrubs, he will observe Pyrus Maulei, with au
orange tint enlivening its scarlet petals, and a
Pyrus malus floribunda, quitd exceptional in the
profusion of its bloom. We noted, too, in pass-
ing, the size and beauty of the New Zealand
Flax, Phorrninm tenax, an unusually large
Ilex, and an Umbrella Pine, Sciadopitys ver-
ticiUata, recalling the grove of these fine trees
near Cannes. Of notable smaller shrubs

weie the Dwarf Almond, Prunus nana, with
its delicate rosy bloom. Rhododendron rho-
dora, and GauUheria procumbens, the curious
crimson bsrriC'S lurking amongst the leaves.
Everywhere on banks or in beds were the endless
varieties of Narcissus, including the delicate N.
juncitolius and bulbocodiura, with N. triandrus,
and its tripje blooms, known as " Gany-
mede's Cup" or as "Angel's Tears." Kqually
numerous and various were Anemones, red, blue
and white ; we were desired especially to notice
the pretty A. Robinsoniana ; and, recalling
botanical walks in search of it through the Roy.
J ton fields, we recognised with pleasure our
native Pasqi^e flower, A. Pulsatilla. Amongst
these stand up, queen-like, the pure blooms and
glossy triplicate foliage of Trillium grandi.
flornm, the Wood Lily of America, intersper.sed
with its variety roseum. We oiiquired for that
other beautiful .\mer:can plant, P.pigtea lepens^

Fro. ir4. — hippeastrum raised from seed after

ATTEMPTS TO CROSS THE FLOWER WITH A CRI.NUM.

the May flower, which, springing up everywhere
in Canada so soon as the snows me'.t off the
ground, gave its name to the historic vessel in
which the Pilgrim Fathers voyaged ; it was net
yet out, and its neighbour, Shortia galacifolia,
had been checked by the cold. One of our
party, familiar with toe Iffley meadows, asked
for Fritillaria Meleagris, and there it grew in
both kinds ;

" I know what white, what purple Fritillaries,
The grassy harvest of the river fields.
Above by Eynsham, down by Sandford, yields."

.\nd the allusion led our guide to show two
tints of Gentian growing side by side, repre-
senting exactly the Oxford and the Cambridge
colours. He pointed also to a triumphant proof
of skilful gardening in the picturesque unfolding
foliage of Meconopsis Wallichii, difficult to rear
in the open, as some of us may have discovered.

In a sheltered nook grew a rare pink Oxalis,
apparently a variety of O. acetosella, discovered
by Mr. Wilson in Ireland. The common Dog-
tooth Violet was fruiting, but we saw the pink
Erythronium Johnsoni, and the finer white E.
giganteum, which will grow, as we were told,
only under deciduous trees. The Cornus cana-
densis or Bunchberry was sending up its bright
whorled leaves. The true blooms are insignifi-
cant, but it exhibits four large white bracts,
which are mistaken by the uninitiated for the"
flowers. It grows across the American conti-
nent, and is said to spring spontaneously on
the fresh embankments of railway cuttings. The
spring Starflower, Triteleia uniflora, was at its
best, as was the dainty yellow Viola lutea ;
while bare edges and corners were hidden by
patches of double Arabis. The rock garden
showed Aubrietias, Lithospernium prostratum,
and the beautiful Arnebia €chioides, still rare
in England, though long ago introduced, having
five black spots on its corolla of primrose-
yellow. It is called the " Prophet flower,"
why, no one seems to know. ,. A pond filled
with the "Hawthorn Water Lily," Aponoge:on
distachyum, scented the air far and wide.
Finally we passed to what in autumn is a Dahlia
bed, now holding a great multitude of Tulip
bulbs, to see the glory of the collection, Tulipa
I'osteri, appropriately named alter Sir Michael
I'oster. Of a hundred other lovely but mora
familiar plants, of the birds warbling untaught
harmony in every bush, of the nesting boxes
fitted in the trees for the white owls, starlings,,
flycatchers, tits, and of the careful exclusion
from their paradise of the beautiful but preda-
ceous jay, " Time," as with wise ecoriomy says
the Epistler to the Hebrews, " would fail to-
tell.'' These my mind bore away, and these I
commend to my brother Corycians. If they
visit Wisley now, and share my great good for-
tune in being personally conducted by the well,
equipped and kindly instructive superintenBent,
Mr. Wright, they will garner erudition of more
kinds than one, and, for their own gardens,
invaluable practical hints. Coryciiis Seriex.

COLONIAL NOTE.

PACKING SEEDS FOR THE TROPICS.
YovK correspondents " W. D." and A. C.
Bartlett are of course free to give their opinions.
They confessedly have not had tropical experi-
ence, and cannot be aware of the conditions
which are met with there. That is not their
fault, but their misfortune. " W. D." quotes
liis 15 jears' experience in handling " thousands
f packets," to which I answer I have had 30'
years' tropical experience, and have conducted
many experiments with seeds received from Eng-
land ; I know, as an Englishman, how long, and
how well, seeds will keep there, and I should
know, from 30 jears' regular importations, some,
thing of their behaviour on this side. As I said
in my first letter, " there is nothing in seeds
growing on a single occasion," but the crux of
the matter in my other statement is overlooked,
" that if left in paper packets for even short
periods they becoaie utterl}' useless " (p. 164). It
is a question of working, not of opinion, and it
would be absolutely useless for us to attempt to
follow the advice given by your correspondents.
If they were resident as I am, I am persuaded
they would abandon their English ideas, as
I did, and would take care, by proper packing,
to secure growth in imported seeds. The proof
of the seeds is in their germination, and when
we find seeds will not keep in paper packets,
we try to adopt some measure which will tend
to lengthen the period of their vitality. Fur
this buyers do not object to pay as much as
25 per cent, on the cost of the seeds, and they

276

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 5, 1906.

would hardly do this if they could be otherwise
kept. The fact of large firms taking up the
matter and of others being induced to do so
by my note also shows that an endeavour is to
be made to meet a recognised difficulty. The
trials made in England are no doubt carefully
carried out and have their value, but why
should not carefully conducted trials on this
side be given an equal consideration? The sum
and substance of the remarks of your corre-
spondents, "W. D." and "A. C. B.," is that I
must be wrong because they, without any tropical
experience, must be right. I solve the ques-
tion by an actual working experience of long
standing, and by actual results. They solve it
by reporting that seeds from India, China, etc.,
germinated well, but that does not even touch
the question of seeds maintaining vitality in a
tropical climate. Everyone here knows that
English and American seeds sent here for sale
will not keep their vitality, and all persons sell,
ing them have to import supplies at frequent
intervals if sold in paper, but if sold in properly
prepared packets of tinfoil, sealed against in-
sects and moisture, they can, and do, preserve
their vitality for a greater length of time. If
your correspondents are willing to test the mat.
ter, let them try to keep Peas, Lettuce, or any
other seeds, in a temperature having a mean
of 84° Fahr., with a relative humidity of .80,
and I think they would soon find seeds lose
their germinating powers. This condition might
be found in some stove at home, but even there
the heating apparatus would keep them in a
drier condition than with us. For somei months
in the year the moisture in the air stands daily,
for some hours a day, at saturation point, and
though not giving seeds (wrapped in paper)
sufficient moisture to enable them to grow, still
gives them enough to make them lose their
vitality. The greater number of microscopic
fungi in this climate also exerts a pernicious
effect on seeds, and their growth is rapid and
destructive.

Until your correspondent reminded me of its
presence, I had not noted Mr. Watson's article
on seed-packing. Now that I have read it, I
find Mr. Watson recommends "common sense"
packing, and in that I agree with him ; but must
explain that •' common sense " here and " com.
raon sense" in England would mean two .dif-
ferent things. 1 try his method and I find it
unsatisfactory for my importations. I try an-
other method and I find it excellent. Why
should I be persuaded to adopt something else
while I am well content? I have received hun-
dreds of packages from Kew, but, although I
have an excellent record, cannot put on record
that I have met with universal success. In fact,
when inadvertently kept for some weeks, Kew
seeds have suffered like the others ; but as they
are generally of such a valuable character as to
merit immediate sowing, they always stand a
better chance than any other.

Let me in conclusion put on record an experi.
ment which cculd be repeated. An importation
of English Peas was made. The first sowing
gave 95 per cent, germination. The second, a
month after, sown in exactly the same manner,
gave 75 per cent. The third, another 30 days
afterwards, gave 40 per cent., and the fourth
20 per cent. If sealed in dry air (a most essen-
tial condition) this deterioration is avoided.
Sealing in moist air certainly tends to destroy
the seeds. Here we cannot seal in dry air as
our temperature being high, our air naturally
contains a large amount of moisture, and we
therefore have not the necessary conditions.
Hence, easily perishable seeds, as most of ours
are, must be sent in a growing condition and
packed in such a common-sense manner as to
maintain such until they reach their destination.
./. //. Hart, Trinidad.

PRIMROSE "GREENWOOD PIM."

We are indebted to Mr. Smith, of the Daisy
Hill Nursery, Newry, for the opportunity of illus-
trating this very pretty variety. At first sight it
might be taken for a double Primrose, but a section
through the flower shows that the crumpled appear-

<^^p,pcKR,orsr

Fig. 115. — PRIMROSE "greenwood riM," a

VARIETY WITH FRILLED PETALS.

ance is due to the luxuriant growth of the ordinary
petals, which are folded and refolded in the way
shown in the figure. It is, in any case, a very
desirable variety. The section, moreover, shows
that the stamens and the style are about on a
level, which is unusual in Primroses.

PLANT NOTES.

JASMINUM NITIDUM.

This charming acquisition to the list of warm
greenhouse climbers v,as recently introduced from
the Admiralty Islands. It produces a profusion of
exquisitely scented, pure white flowers, borne in
three-flowered umbels. The blossoms, consisting
of from ten to twelve ray-like petals, are large, and
are very light and graceful in appearance. The
ovate leaves are of a bright green colour.

The plant can be propagated by cuttings, two or
three inches long, taken w-ith a portion of the old
wood attached, and inserted in suitably crocked
3-inch pots filled to their rims with a mixture of
leaf-mould and light loamy soil surfaced with
sand. The pots should be watered through a fine
rose, and then be placed under a bell-glass in the
stove or propagating pit. When rooted the plants
should be potted singly into small 60-size pots in
the same mixture of soil as indicated above,
making them firm in tlie process of potting. Return
to heat, afford water to settle the soil, and subse-
quently shift the young plants into larger pots before
their roots become matted, until they are finally
placed in their flowering-pots or boxes or planted
out in narrow borders in prepared soil. For train-
ing around pillars or for covering trellises in the
stove or warm greenhouse this pretty climbing
plant will be found useful and effective.

CESTRUM (HABROTHAMNUS) SMITHII.
This beautiful, semi-climbing- plant is a great
improvement upon C. elegans, from which it
was raised as a variety. Its blush rose-coloured
flowers in terminal trusses are freely produced
during the summer and autumn months. It
will be found a most desirable addition to
the list of plants suitable for the embellish-

ment of pillar:, cic, in warm green-houses
and conser\atories. The plant is very easy of
culture; cuttings taken with two or three nodes
and inserted in properly crocked 3-inch pots filled
with light sandy soil, placed in heat, and watered,
will soon form roots and be ready for potting
singly into small pots. H. W. Ward, Rayleigk.

LOBELIA TENUIOR.
This comparatively new Lobelia is a wel.
come addition for the decoration of the
conservatory or greenhouse during the summer
months. It is best treated as an annual, for
old plants are with difficulty kept alive through-
out the winter. Seed sown in March will pro-
duce nice flowering plants by the month of
August, by which time they will attain a height
of 18 inches, and as growth advances they will
require supporting with neat stakes. These
plants may also be grown in baskets and be
allowed to droop naturally over the sides, where
they will show off their flowers to advantage
The seed being very minute, it should only
be covered with a pinch of fine sand. The
seed-pots or pans, covered with a piece
of glass and with paper until germination
is effected, should be placed in a tem-
perature of 65". After germination, the pots
or pans should be placed quite near to the glass
roof to prevent the seedlings damping or fog-
ging off. When large enough to handle, dibble
them into pans or boxes filled with equal parts
of loam and leaf-soil, with a dash of sand added,,
and allow the same temperature as before, but
shade from bright sunshine until the roots
become established, after which they should be
rerpoved to an unheated frame. Remove the
points of any shoots that show a tendency to
betome leggy, for the plants often become
drawn when grown under the above-named con-
ditions. Before crowding takes place, pot
the young plants into 3i-inch pots, iinaliy
transferring into others of a 5i-inch size, which
will be found suitable for their flowering stage.
A second pinching may be given before the last
potting to induce the plants to branch freely. I
have not seen this plant grown outdoors, but I
see no reason why it should not be thus grown.
At any rate, I purpose planting it in vases and
bas':ets out of doors this summer.

CELSIA ARCTURUS.
Tins old inhabitant of our gardens is
seldom seen nowadays, yet its brigiit yel-
low flowers are exceedingly pleasing, especi.
ally in late summer when arranged in
conjunction with Lobelia tenuior. The plant is
easily raised from seed sown now, and requires
about the same treatment as the above-named
Lobelia, with the exception of pinching the
shoots, as I find much finer spikes of flower.-;
are to be had when the plant is allowed to
grow and flower at will. Although a robust
grower, pots 5 inches in diameter will be found
large enough for the plant's requirements, if
diluted manure water be applied as soon a'<
the flowering spikes appear. The shelter of a cold
frame is found sufficient after the month of May,
for the plant is half hardy with us, and flowers
well out of doors towards the end of summer.
Old plants can be grown a second year, and such
plants are now in bloom with us in the green-
house, carrying from 3 to 6 spikes. A stock
can be obtained from cuttings, but as seed is
cheap and easily raised, there appears no need
to propagate from old plants, especially as
seedlings make the best specimens. This
species should not be confounded with Celsia
cretica, the hardy herbaceous plant of our
borders. C. cretica is also worthy of culture,
and has yellow flowers on inflorescences about
5 feet high. Seed of this should be sown in the
open about mid-June, and treated similarly to
Jlyosotis, Wallflowers, etc. The Celsias.. are
closely allied to the Verbascum or Mullein, the
flower spike of C. cretica being similar in

May 5, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

277

growth and the individual flowers about the
same size and shape ; in fact, many visitors to
these gardens call these Celsias, Verbascums,
but some of the latter are rose, white and
purple-coloured, whereas all the Celsias have
yellow or brownish-yellow flowers. /. Maync,
Bicton.

A DISEASE OF NARCISSI.:^
The Narcissi have so far proved remarkably
free from the attacks of fungi and other pests ;
the only disease which has assumed a really serious
aspect in many gardens being the yellow stripe
disease which attacks a considerable number of
varieties, Narcissus "Sir Watkin" being par-
ticularly prone to it. This disease is characterised
by the appearance of yellow stripes down the
foliage, and a dwarfing of the whole plant. Last
season, however, large numbers of plants of N.
poeticus growing in an orchard, where they had
been planted three years previously, were attacked
by a disease which does not appear to have been
noticed before. , Both leaves and flower-stalks
were aft'ected, but the bulb appeared not to suffer
except so far as it was injured by the interference
with the functions of the leaf.

The disease is characterised by the presence
of large yellowish-brown spots on the leaves or
flower-stalks up to 1 in. in length, sometimes ap-
pearing at the tips of the leaves, but usually some
distance below (fig. ii6, a) The spots first appear
about the end of April, where theleaf orflower-stalk
is attacked, the cells are killed and the upper part
frequently bends over. When the flower-stalk is

NURSERY KOTES.

-aBaSr

f I.C - q--.B.l>t,U<*'l

Fig. ii6. — ramularia narcissi.

A, portion of leaf of Narcissus with spots caused by fungus

(natural size). B, fertile hyphae, and C, spores (highly

magnified).

attacked, the flower naturally suffers, sometimes
failing to open properly, and always being spoiled
for market-purposes owing to the impossibility of
plucking the flower with a sufiiciently long stalk.
Later the spots become covered with a fine, white
powder, consisting oi the spores of the fungus,
which is the cause of the formation of the spots.
The spores are produced in great numbers, and
by their means the fungus is readily spread to
other Narcissi growing near.

The best means of dealing with an attack of this
fungus is by spraying, as soon as the spots appear,
wi^h a solution of potassium sulphide, at the rate
of \ oz. to the gallon of water.

The fungus appears to be a hitherto undescribed
species of Ramularia, a technical description and
figure are therefore appended. F. J. Chittenden.

^ Ramularia iiarc:ssi. Parasitic. Spots yellowish brown,
large, up to 2'5 cm. X -6 cm. ; later becoming white and pul-
verulent with conidia ; hyphas fasciculate, continuous, hya-
line, suberect, 30-50 x 2-5 w.; conidia oblong, straight
or slightly curved, 1-3 septate, sometimes catenulate,
10-18 X 4 u., hyaline. On leaves and ilower-stalks of Nar-
cissus poeticits.

R. H. Bath, Ltd., The Floral Farms,
Wisbech.

AnouT 14 years ago we first heard of this firm,
and since that time it has established a wide
reputation. The farms consist of about 1,000
acres of fertile land ; much of it is devoted to
the culture of hardy flowers and bulbs. At the
time of my visit (April 12), Daffodils were the
great feature, and, considering the weather v/£
had had, it was surprising to find them in such
fine condition. It is evident that the ground
and cultural treatment suit them, for taking the
many acres devoted to their culture, all looked
remarkably healthy, and though the ordinary
sorts were growing in a field fully exposed there
was no sign of injury by frost or winds. The
choicer sorts had a slight protection from the
winds, but were otherwise fully exposed, and
the fine blooms seen at the recent shows fully
testify to the fact that they can be grown with-
out any coddling. A large area was occupied
by the choicer sorts. Of these I noted among
the Ajax, or large trumpet section, King Alfred
and King's Norton, and from the way they were
flowering they promise well to take the place of
older sorts for market when sufficient stock can
be established. Golden Bell, Glory of Noord-
wijk, Weardale Perfection, and Madame de
Graaff were all doing well. Lucifer was one of
the best of the Barri section, and Flora Wilson
is a favourite. Maurice de Vilmorin is another
promising variety. Of Leedsi, Princess Mary
and Duchess of Westminster were noted ; and
J. Bain is grown in large quantities. The
Poeticus section was represented by some dis-
tinct varieties. Praecox grandiflorus was one of
the best seen in quantity, but Eyebright, a
newer addition, may supersede this. Ornatusis
grown in very large quantities ; in one piece I
noted over two acres, and there were several
other large patches.

Coming to other sorts grown in large quan-
tities of Golden Spur, there are about four acres,
though most of the bloom had been gathered,
but it was evident from the healthy foliage
that it was doing well. Major, though a very
fine deep yellow, is not so free. M. J. Berkeley,
not quite so deep in colour, was flowering freely.
Emperor was in its full glory, and several large
patches made a great show. Sir Watkin is very
extensively grown, but most of the bloom had
been gathered ; it is found one of the most
profitable. Of the bicolors. Empress and Hors-
fieldi were both very fine, and it would be diffi-
cult to say which was best. Barri conspicuus
succeeds Sir Watkin, and is equally useful. Of
the white varieties Mrs. Thompson and W.
Goldring are favourites. Autocrat, a yellow self
of the incomparabilis section, is much esteemed.
Telamonius plenus is grown in very large quan-
tities. Many more sorts might be enumerated.

Coming to the sheds, I found forty-five wo-
men busily engaged in bunching and packing,
and that the bulk of the bloom is sent to
the provincial markets.

Next to the Daffodils, Tulips are most pro-
minent. A few of the most useful' Dutch sorts are
grown extensively. Of these. Yellow Prince, La
Reine, T. Moore, Vermilion Brilliant, Prince of
Austria, and Keizers Kroon were very promi-
nent ; but it is the Darwin varieties and the
cottage garden sorts which are of most value. A
little later they will be making a grand show,
and, judging from the broad foliage and thick
stems, there should be some grand blooms. The
Parrot varieties also do well.

Herbaceous Peonies are grown in immense
quantities, and were making splendid growth,
but the Tree Paeonies had suffered from the bad
weather.

Herbaceous Pyrethrums are another feature.
Only a limited number of varieties is grov/n
in quantities, but these have been selected from

large numbers that have been tried. Violets do
well here, and a selection of the best sorts are
grown. Among these I noted Mrs. D'Arcey,
Baron de Rothschild, Souvenir de Jules Josse,
Noelie, Lady Hume Campbell, and Marie
Louise. Other sorts are also extensively grown.
The Czar is still much in demand, five thou-
sand being recently sent away for one order.

Violas, in a few of the most distinct colours,
occupy long ranges of frames.

Pansies are largely grown. The Empress
strain is now well known, and certainly
are as fine as any I have seen. Many of the
best are selected for seed. These were very fine,
and the firm has a large demand for the seed,
both for wholesale and retail orders.

Polyanthus and Primroses receive special'
attention. Those of the blue shades were speci-
ally good — in fact, taking all shades of colours,
it would be difficult to find better.

Many other subjects are equally well done in
the open ground. I should refer to the Chiono-
doxas, which are raised from seed, and represent
all the varieties in large quantities.

Entering the glass department, I found
Dahlias in profusion, about 80,000 being pro-
pagated. Carnations are also extensively
grown ; about 10,000 of the border sorts are-
potted on for flowering in pots, besides those
planted in the ground. The American varieties
are also well grown.

Chrysanthemums, chiefly the early flowering
sorts, receive special attention. Clematis are
extensively propagated. Roses of the newer
sorts are grown in large quantities. Plants of
Lady Gay, which had been budded in the open
ground last season and potted in the autumn,
were starting very vigorously. Other new
Ramblers and Teas were doing equally well. H.

AN ENGLISH BULB GARDEN.

" Fair Daffodils, we weep to see
Ye haste away so soon,"

even in an ordinary season. But something
other than time has been flying this season, and,
short as the season of these lovely flowers is
under normal conditions, the recent spell of
cold north-east wind, with drought in its train,
has blasted the flowers while yet in their prime.
The outburst of genial weather at Easter-time
but accentuated the injury, for the flowers re-
sponded to the glorious outburst of sunshine
and warmth with such freedom, and hastened to
unfold their flower scapes, only to be caught
later by the cruel "north-easter." However,
we must not be unduly pessimistic, for a trip to-
Messrs. Barr's nursery at Thames Ditton always-
repays the visitor in spring time — even though
the Daffodils be not in such fine trim as in more
favoured seasons ; for this establishment may be
regarded as one of the great clearing houses of
the Daffodil world, for, apart from the many fine
things raised in these nurseries by Messrs. Barr
themselves, almost all the best and newer gems
of the genus Narcissus can be found in these 9
bulb gardens. Thus have Messrs. Barr acquired
what is probably the finest seedling of the sea-
son 1906 in, the beautiful Pearl of Kent, an
illustration of which we hope to present to our
readers in an early issue. Although it needs
almost the purse of a Croesus to purchase all the
newer and up-to-date varieties, of which some
are catalogued at £42 a bulb, there is a wealth of
beautiful older varieties which can be purchased
for a few pence, and great breadths of these can
be seen at Dittcn, and in truth can we speak of
the " fields " of Emperor and its consort Em-
press, Weardale Perfection, a name it is justly
entitled to, and not to Weardale alone. Beauty,
and many another. But it is not of these old
favourites we wish to descant, but of the little
isolated batches, and, in some cases, single
plants, that represent the newer members of the
genus. A sturdy trumpet Daffodil, after the
type of Monarch, is the first we have in our
notebook. It is C. li. Curtis, one of the ac-
quisitions of 1905. The trumpet is in exquisite.-

278

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 5, 1906.

proportion and tinted the deepest shade of prim-
rose yellow. Near by is Cleopatra, also a
trumpet or Ajax flower, and, being a second early
variety, seen at its best. The segments are
rounded and overlapping, the trumpet long and
of deep yellow colour. Isolde, a tall, bold flower
of large proportions, the yellow trumpet being
set off by the creamy-white perianth. Those
v/ho have frequented the shows of the Royal
Horticultural Society this spring cannot have
failed to admire the vases of King Alfred,
staged on more than one occasion, and to see it
growing but confirms the good opinions formed
of it. It is a flower of the greatest substance
and of an intense golden colour, towering on
stems 2 feet or more high, and with proportion-
ately massive foliage. Next we notice is Lady
Audrey, a flower in the way of Madme. de
Graaff, but thinner in the trumpet, and with
tube of deeper colour and more expanded throat.
Salmonetta belongs to the Leedsii section, thus
the chalice is not of such proportions as to en-
title it to the designation of a trumpet, but its
beautiful tinge of salmon colour seems like a
setting to throw in greater relief the pure white-
ness of its segments. We pass by Gloria Mundi,
Duchess of Westminster, and Monarch, and
notice Cassandra, perhaps the finest of all the
poet's Narcissus. Tall of stature, and bearing
Its sweet flowers well above the foliage, we look
in vain for its peer, for in none are seen greater
substance of petal, form of perianth, or purity
of colouring, and crowning all is the " eye " of
richest red. In Cherry Ripe the eye becomes
entitled to the designation of a cup or chalice,
for it is of the Burbidgei section and intermedi-
ate with the Poeticus and the trumpet Daffodils,
hence they are known, as the Hybrid Poet's
Narcissi or Dolly-cup Daffodils. The stature is
dwarf, but it is a pleasing flower. The in-
florescence of the group Tridymus furnishes
something fresh, for the scapes become um-
bellate, and in place of the solitary flower we
see a cluster. Quite one of the best is Cloth of
Gold, the rich yellow trumpet and the paler
perianth being sweetly iiagrant, a quality de-
rived from its Tazetta blood. Another good
variety in this section is St. Patrick, and here
the perianth is coloured primrose yellov/.
I'railty, a Burbidgei, was, no doubt, named from
the delicate thinness of its petals and its modest
hanging head. The cup is edged with red.
Little Dorrit is not little, but a tall Burbidgei,
whose cup opens of a beautiful orange-scarlet
colour. The flowers are neat and of good form.
A variety still in bud, while most of its com-
panions are fully expanded or passing, is Cupid,
a lovely kBarrii. Apricot is the nearest Daffodil
to red, and Loveliness is almost all one needs
as a white trumpet Daffodil. The double In-
comparabilis Primrose Phosnix furnishes us
with a flower of great size, and, being produced
with freedom, forms a capital subject for the
flower border. Janet Image was raised in these
nurseries. It is one of the finest Leedsii, with
beautiful cone-shaped cup, paler in colour
• beneath, but suffusing to a deeper sulphur-yellow
at the mouth, and thrown into relief by the
charming white perianth. 'Vivid is of the Bur-
bidgei section j the cup is very finely coloured
orange-scarlet, and looks well against the
creamy-white perianth segments. Oriana is a
sturdy " bicolor," with large fimbriated trumpet
of clear yellow colour. Other fine varieties are
Maggie May, Elvira, Capt. Nelson, Albicans
(one of the first white trumpet Daffodils),
Countess of Annesley, Cassandra, Strongbow,
Mr. C. Bowley (a favourite for furnishing cut
flowers), NeLsoni major, and Ariadne. Before
we leave the grounds we take the opportunity of
peeping at the seed beds. These are protected
by extemporised frames formed of old railway
sleepers, and here the results of much careful
hybridising and watching are eagerly awaited.
Nothing very startling, however, has been
evolved this season. One of the best is N.
odorus rugulosus maximus, awarded an Award
of Merit at the meeting of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society on April 17.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

The Cattleya House. — Miny species, including
C. Trianae, C. labiata (a tumn flowering), C.
Gaskelliana, C. Perciv. ia a, C. Leopold!, C.
Loddigesi, C. Harrisons;, C. amethystoglossa,
Laelia elegans, and the numerous hybrid Cattleyas,
Laelias, Laelio-Cattleyas, &c., are, with the
increase of light and sun-heat, commencing
to grow, and will soon be developing fresh
roots. If any of the plants require fresh
rooting material, or more root-space, the opera-
tions of repotting or re-surfacing must not be
delayed, as it will be difficult to do the work later
without causing injury to the new roots. When
repotting thriving specimens do not unduly dis-
turb or injure the old roots, but carefully place
them into fresh, clean pots, keeping the base or
rhizome of each plant on a level with the rim of
the pot, for which purpose it is often necessary in
the case of taller growing varieties to hold them
in position with a few neat sticks. Avoid over-
potting, but allow suflicient space for about two
seasons' growth. For drainage I use well-dried
bracken-rhizomes from peat turves, and in the
case of small plants a few pieces only are placed
over the bottom of the pot, but for larger speci-
mens the quantity must be proportionately in-
creased. The potting medium used at Burford is
composed as follows — two-thirds of the best fibrous
peat and one-third clean picked sphagnum moss,
to which are added some rough half-decayed oak
leaves, coarse siher sand and broken crocks, the
whole being thoroughly well mixed together. For
small plants and seedlings, a compost consisting of
peat, leaf soil , and moss in equal parts, with the addi-
tion of crocks and sand, proves very suitable. The
compost should be pressed moderately firm around
and between the roots, filling the receptacle well
up to the base of the plant. Small and moderate-
sized specimens are surfaced with about half an
inch of chopped sphagnum moss. For several
weeks after repotting, keep them well shaded from
strong sunshine, and afford water sparingly —
especially to the larger-sized plants, until the new
roots have established themselves in the fresh
compost. Syringe well between the pots two or
three times daily on warm sunny occasions. Owing
to the depth of our potting material it is never
thoroughly soaked through when water is aftorded,
but the surface is sprinkled with a fine rose water-
ing can, and is kept moderately moist at all times.
During the process of repotting I have observed
that that part of the compost which is driest, viz.,
that down towards the drainage, possesses far more
roots, and these are in a better condition of health
than those found in a damp, wet soil. Such plants
as Cattleya Mendeli, C. Mossia;, C. Skinned,
Laelia purpurata, L. tenebrosa and the numerous
hybrids whose flowering spikes are pushing forth
will require rather more water at their roots till the
flowers expand, but after the inflorescences are cut
the quantity must be reduced again until growth
commences afresh.

sponsible for failure. When the plants become
established in their new pots they should bs
pinchqd to induce a bushy growth, and this will
also frequently cause them to send up strong
shoots from beneath the surface of the soil. I
find in the case of I. coccinea better results are
obtained by pinching the points out of the shoots
than by pruning to harder wood, but in other
varieties moderate pruning should be practised
to keep the plants a good shape. Specimens
with a good root system should receive frequent
applications of manure and soot-water made by
placing cows' dung and soot in coarse bags, steeped
in tubs of water for a few days before use.
The syringe should be freely used during the
growing season. Small plants grown in 5-inch
pots are eft'ective in mixed groups of plants, while
the inflorescences are always appreciated in stands
of cut stove and greenhouse flowers at exhibitions.

The Stove. — Satisfactory progress in the growth
of many plants should now be apparent in this
department. The opportunity should be taken in
bright weather to close the house early, for the
temperature may then be allowed to rise to SS''-
90", and this without any fear of injury, provid-
ing the plants have been lightly sprayed with the
syringe, and all spaces between the pots damped.
As the sun increases in power daily, an additional
light syringing at the close of the day will be
beneficial, for this will promote atmospheric mois-
ture that will do much towards keeping the plants
in a healthy condition. Ventilation should be
cautiously afforded should the present cold winds
continue ; bright sunshine will greatly send up
the temperature, but this can be counteracted
by lowering the blinds for a time, which is better
than opening the ventilators and allowing the cold
air to come in contact with the plants, and especi-
ally would this be injurious to plants newly potted.
The night temperature of the stove should range
from 65''-08'". Mealy bug will make rapid head-
way if prompt measures be not taken to keep the
pest in check. In the calendar for January 6 will
be found a very simple and safe insecticide for
Mealy bug, which I find very efficacious.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,

Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Ixoras. — These plants when properly cultivated
will afford a valuable supply of choice cut-flowers
throughout the greater part of the year. They
will often remain in good health and a service-
able condition for several seasons, but once they
become unhealthy, it is not an easy matter to re-
store them, therefore it is well to have a series of
young plants that will take the place of those that
are old or deteriorated. Cuttings inserted now
will readily form roots ; indeed, I consider the
present is the best time to insert them. Short
pointed shoots of the preceding year's growth,
about 4 inches long, should be selected, and they
should be severed just below a node. Retain
the lower leaves and buds on the cutting, as it is
usually from the buds below the surface that
strong growths develop during the first two years.
The cuttings should be placed singly in small pots,
filled with good sandy peat, plunged in a bottom,
heat of 75-80° and kept in a close atmosphere till
well-rooted, after which they should be repotted
into 4-inch pots. Avoid over-potting at any period
of the plants' development, for this is often re-

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAw, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Stoffing and Tying Vine Shoots. — This work will
now require almost daily attention, for it is sur-
prising how the young shoots are drawn to the
glass, even in one night. Great care is necessary
in tying, for with strong growing kinds the shoots
of the Vines are liable to snap off at their bases
and leave unsightly gaps that are not easily filled.
All sub-laterals should be pinched back to the
first leaf, and shoots carrying bunches to two
leaves beyond the bunch. Aim at covering the
trellis evenly with strong foliage, for if the leaves
are small and flimsy the fruit will not be satis-
factory ; moreover, where good stout leathery
leaves are found, insect pests are not troublesome.

Tomatos. — Our earliest batch of plants, raised
from seed sown during the last week in December,
have made good progress and are carrying a heavy
crop of fruits. Such plants will now be benefited
by a top-dressing composed of turfy-loam, wood-
ashes and bone-meal, and encourage the fruits
to swell by an application of liquid manure two or
three times a week. Keep the side growths
pinched, and remove a little of the foliage
periodically to allow the maximum amount of sun-
shine to reach the fruits. Tap each plant about
mid-day in order to disperse the pollen, for by this
means fertilisation is aided and a more even
"set" secured. Successional plants should be
kept steadily growing, and their pots placed well
up to the glass Aftord them larger receptacles as
they require them. Seeds of " Sunrise " or " Per-
fection " sown now will furnish plants to follow
for a late crop.

Melons. — Fruits in the early house will now
require supporting, as they are swelling rapidly.
Some growers use thick strips of raffia as a
support, but Melon-nets are preferable, and
they can be bought very cheaply. They are
also useful for suspending the ripe fruits in the
fruit-room, by which method they keep much
longer than when placed upon the shelves. Some
varieties of Melons when near maturity are prone
to split, and especially so if the house is closed,
with a high temperature and an excess of moisture.
A drier and a cooler atmosphere should therefore
be maintained at this stage, and root-waterings

May b, iyu6.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

279

should diminish a little. Canker will sometimes
make its appearance, especially if the compost is of
too rich a nature, and deficient in lime and wood-
ashes, which tend to keep the soil sweet and open.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to tlie Iiarl of Plymouth,
St. I-agan's Castle, Glaniorgansliire.

A Few Beautiful Hardy Annuals. — The season
is now so advanced that no opportunity should
be lost to complete the sowing of annuals in-
tended for the coming summer's display. It
happened that the weather during April i^roved
so unpropitious for the germination of seeds in
the open that lovers of hardy annuals who were
prevented by circumstances from sowing earlier
lost little by the delay, and it is even admissible
to suppose they are the more fortunate on this
account, as seeds were better out of the ground
than subjected to such ungenial conditions. To
achieve success in the culture of annuals, the
necessity of sownig thinly, and afterwards to
thin boldly according to the requirements of the
plant, cannot be too often reiterated, for if
these items are neglected, instead of obtaining
robust, healthy leafage with finely developed
flowers continued over a prolonged season^ the
result will be ''thin, weedy" plants with im-
perfect bloom having but a brief duration. Of
all hardy annuals the Tree Mallow (Lavatera
trimestris rosea splendens) is one of the very
best, and no garden where hardy flowers are
esteemed could possibly be complete lacki.ng
this exquisitely beautiful annual. It is a beauti-
ful plant in every way. The plants are vigorous
and they have a noble appearance, while the
colour of their large, bell-shaped flowers is a
delightful deep shade of rosy pink, which is
effective in masses or in small groups in the
mixed border.^ They grow to the height of 4 or
5 feet when the profusion of their bloom is at
its greatest, but they commence to flower when
only 1 foot high, and are objects of exceeding
beauty from then until they attain their full size,
which lasts long into the autumn. This Lava-
tera is singularly well adapted for the making
of a summer hedge, and, when smothered with
its large flowers, affords a sight that it would be
difficult to surpass with anything of a perennial
nature. There is a variety alba, which is worth
growing where white flowers are desired. Both
are eminently suitable for cutting from for
large vase decoration, as the flowers remain in
good condition for a long time. The Lavatera
thrives in ordinary soil, but especially so in a
medium that is rich and light. From the
description of the plant it will be readily con-
ceived that the necessity of bold thinning and
ample space for each seedling to develop is
particularly imperative in its connection. An
annual that is very often erroneously confused
with the subject of the above note is the Mallow
Wort (Malope grandiflora), but though very
showy, and well worth growing wherever a bold
crimson flower is desired, it is not to be com-
pared to the Lavatera for beauty. It grows to
the height of 18 inches or 2 feet, and requires a
well manured soil to grow to perfection. The
seeds should be inserted quite half-an-inch in
depth — to ensure its rooting deeply, otherwise
hot, dry weather would be inimical to us con-
tinuity of bloom. The Malope should be grown
in masses to obtain the best effects. There is
also a white variety. A most charming little
hardy annual is Leptosiphon hybridus (Gilia),
and it is very pretty if given a bed or small border
to itself. Though desirable in most kinds of
plants to avoid mixture of colours, the effec-
tiveness of this particular Leptosiphon is much
enhanced by mixing them with each other, for,
sown thus, it forms a carpet thickly studded
with bright, star-like flowers of rose, yellow,
■white, and lilac colours. Love-in-a-Mist
(Nigella damascena) is too well known to need
description, but it should not be omitted from
any garden — especially Miss Jekyll's strain.
It is suitable either for bed or border. Godetias
(CEnothera), in all colours of brilliant and deli-
cate shades, must not be forgotten. Phacelia
campanularia is a sweet, dwarf-growing annual
of a lovely blue colour, with prettily shaped
foliage. In flower it resembles the Eutoca,
another annual, but it is superior to it in all
ways.* It is only necessary to mention the
following to remind the reader of their indi-
vidual attractiveness, and the urgency of includ-
ing them at once in the collection of hardy
annuals if this has not already been done. The

Californian Poppy (Eschscholtzia californica),
Linum grandiflorum and L. sibiricum, Mig-
nonette, Virginian Stock, Swan River Daisy
(Brachycoine iberidifolia), Sphenogyne speci-
osa, Linaria, Coreopsis, Lupines, Larkspur,
Kaulfussia anielloides, and Viscaria.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edihund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Fruit Trees on Walls. — These must receive
regular attention in the matter of thinning and
training of the young shoots. Plum and Pear
trees are greatly benefited by the removal of 'all
useless shoots. In young trees, only those
growths necessary for the proper development
of the tree should be retained, and these should
be in the best positions for training. Older
trees should have some new wood conserved, in
order to help rejuvenate the tree ; especially
should this be done in the case of trees showing
signs of decay. Shoots growing too rampantly
and at the expense of others should be either
removed entirely or be pinched back.

Cherry Trees. — Keep a watch on these trees,
and see that they are not attacked with ISlack-
fiy, and remember that " a stitch in time saves
nine," for this pest spreads rapidly, and causes
great destruction in a short time. Directly the
trees have passed their flowering stage, spray
their every portion with a strong solution of
quassia extract. The insecticide should have
the chill taken off before being applied, and if
the weather is favourable the operation should
be performed twice in one day.

Straiuberries. — Keep these plants free from
weeds, and if a favoured corner contains an
early fruiting batch of plants, these should be
covered up at night-time with some protective
material. It is a good plan to cover the whole
of the Strawberry plots with fine-meshed netting
set on poles 5 or 6 feet high, with ropes or long
deal strips across to enable persons to pass freely
among the plants. This protection may be
given as well now as later, lor the netting will
help to protect the trusses from the effects of
frosts. I have found this of great value and
efficacious in warding off several degrees of
frost.

Vines out-of-doors are now breaking freely,
and should be gone over and disbudded, leaving
only one strong lead to a spur. Vines in the open
in this country are not generally grown for their
Grapes, but they are ornamental, and their
leaves present fine autumnal colourings when
grown on high walls and buildings. In some
seasons, very good fruit can also be obtained
— provided tlie bunches and the growths receive
the requisite attention, and that their roots are
attended to in the matters of feeding and water,
ing. Vines are not so liable to contract dis-
eases when properly cultivated.

General Work. — Keep a watchful eye, and see
that no pests gain a footing on the fruit tree.
.See to the weeding and cleaning of the quarters
allotted to bush trees. Attend to newly-planted
standard trees, and afford water if necessary.
Where the ground shows signs of cracking, the
roots will soon become dry. To prevent this,
stir the surface of the soil with a hoe. Water
and mulch all new and rare fruit trees. Regu-
late the growths of such plants as the Columbian
Raspberry, Japanese Wineberry, Loganberry,
American Blackberries, etc. All growths not re.
quired on these plants should be pulled off to
encourage those remaining to properly develop.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace tlie Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Cardoons. — .\lthough very little grown as a
general crop, this vegetable is sometimes re-
quired in large establishments. The first week
in May is a suitable time to sow the seeds, for
when sown earlier the plants often run to seed.
The best manner of cultivating the plants is in
trenches prepared exactly as for Celery. Plant
the seeds 18 inches apart in the trench, in a
single line, and afford plenty of water to the
plants when they are growing.

Beans. — Select', as for previous sowings, a shel-
tered warm border for another plantation of
French Beans. It is still too early to plant
them in the open quarters as late frosts will
destroy the seedlings as soon as they appear
through the soil, but the next sowing, a
fortnight hence, should be in the open

ground, where they will not be so liable to
suffer from drought in the middle of the sum-
mer. The small and tender variety, the Sugar
Bean, should be grown in all gardens. Ihe
pods of this variety are quite narrow and smaU,
but their quality is of the best, and the plant
is a heavy cropper. Haricot Beans, intended
for use during the winter months, should now
be sown, thus allowing plenty of time lor the
seeds to ripen and become matured before stor-
ing. The Dwarf Waxpod or Butter Bean is
also useful, and furnishes a complete change
for the table, the colour being quite different
to that of other Beans. Draw the soil up to
the rows of Broad Beans in order to steady the
plants when strong winds prevail, and at the
time the flowers are showing, pinch the tops of
the growths, which will not only help the pods
to swell, but will also act as a great preventive
against the destructive black fly ; for, by pinch,
ing, the top leaves soon become too hard for
the fly to eat. Another sowing of the long-
podded varieties should now be made, together
with one of the broad Windsor type, which is
a free cropper and produces Beans of a fine
quality.

Maise. — This vegetable is not so largely
grown as it should be, considering the great
demand for good "cobs" in the autumn
months. A deep, rich soil and one in which
the growth can develop to the fullest extent is
required in order that the cobs may mature as
early as possible and before frosts appear. Sow
the seeds in lines 3 feet apart during the first
week in May, and then transplant the seedlings
to 12 inches apart.

Protecting Young Vegetables.— \\. is seldom
that so much protection has had to be afforded
crops of vegetables as has been the case this
season. In many parts of the country snow has
fallen in large or small quantities every day
for the past week, and frost has been intense ;
here, this morning (April 27), we registered 12°.
Everything should be prepared in readiness for
immediate covering in the evenings. Mats,
tiffany, straw, etc., can all be used, and it
will be time well spent in doing the work.
Leave nothing to chance while the weather con-
tinues in its present severe character.

Successional sowings of nearly all kinds of
vegetables should bs made, including Brussels
Sprouts, Savoys, Broccoli, together with all
kinds of salading, as well as Peas, Turnips,
etc.

THE APIARY.

By Chloris.

Thoughts on Su'aniiiiig.—As the swarming season
approaches many visions pass through one's mind.
We remember the day when a particularly strong
colony swarmed, and the swarm made off without
even settling near to cluster, as is their general
custom. This is only a solitary instance of the
many that could be quoted. A gentleman, who
was a very enthusiastic bee-keeper, once wondered
where his bees were at work, and by the aid of
a little flour he discovered, after much'labour, that
they were working a field of Turnips, which were
then in full bloom about three-quarters of a mile
away. Shortly after discovering their pasture
one colony swarmed, and without any apparent
hesitation they made straight off for a hollow tree
in that field. This makes one come to the con-
clusion that bees often decide on a new abode
before swarming. This idea is borne out by
the following incident : Last year I had a
colony die and the hive was left standing empty.
One morning, to my surprise, a small cast had
taken possession of it quite early. .\ friend of
mine said they went into the empty hi\ejustas
bees do when returning loaded from the field. I
could then recall that I had seen bees passing in
and out of that particular hive for several days
previously, so I came to the conclusion that the
visitors had been the pioneers in search of a suit-
able home. There is one certain cure for this, and
that is to cut the wings of the queens.

Bees leaving the hive after hiving. — One is fre-
quently asked why bees leave the hive after
having been carefully hived, and how to prevent
them doing .so. They may leave because the hive
is filthy, or cold, or in an exposed position. If a
swarm be hived in a clean bar frame hive with a
frame of brood in the centre they will not desert it.

Hunger Swarms. — Early in the season bees have
been known to turn out simply because there were
no stores, and such a swarm would be termed
a " hunger swarm."

280

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 5, 190S.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, ns :.t// as specimens and plants

for T-aviiiig, shotihi be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Communicatiotis sJtould be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. 1/ desired, the signature will not be
printed, hut kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ie Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, uruess by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by Ins correspondents.

WlustraXxons.- The Editor -iV ill be glad to receive and to select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
f^ardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ &c., but he
cannot be responsible for lossor injury.

T^ewspapers.—Correspotuients sending newspapers should he
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local ^ews.— Correspondents will greatly oblige bysendingto
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any inatters whichit isdesirabie
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY, May 5 { ^^^-J^""!- d'Hort. de Londres

IRoy. Caledonian Hort. Soc. Show-
in Waverley Market, Edin-
burgh (2 days).
SATURDAY, May 12 Dutch Gardeners' Soc. meets.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 52'7°.

•Actual Temperatures:—

hotiDou.— Wednesday, May 2 (6 p.m.): Mas. 52'; Min
4r.

Canleners' Chronicle OBBce, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— Thursday, May 3
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.8; Temp., 68°; Weather—
Dull, with occasional sunshine.

Vroviuc^s.— Wednesday, May 2 (6 p.m.) : Max. 52°
South-west coast of Ireland ; Min. 45° South-
ampton.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY—

Hardy Border and other plants, Palms, Ferns, &c., at
67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

FRIDAY—

Imported and Established Orchids from various sources,
at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at
12.45.

Within the memory of some still
Hortus living, Joseph Knight occupied a
Veitchii. foremost place in the horticul-
tural world. His nursery in the
King's Road, Chelsea, now occupied by
Messrs. Veitch, was one of the leading estab-
■lishments of the day. He had as compeers
the Loddiges, the Lees, the Chandlers —
names still remembered with respect, as well
as many others noted in their time, but whose
names are no longer familiar, at least not to
the present generation. What is it that has
secured a permanent reputation for some
firms, whilst others have sunk into compara-
.tive oblivion? It is not merely commercial
supremacy, or what the world calls suc-
cess. It is something more thati that.
A millionaire, for all his wealth, may
not be a very estimable character, and
the footprints that he leaves upon the
sands of time may soon be obliterated.
What confers lasting reputation is soine-
thing that is done not for the individual
alone, but for the benefit of the community,
and for the advancement of his profession,
whatever it may be. Joseph Knight was
originally a gardener, then a successful
nurseryman, but beyond that he contributed
to the literature of botany and gardening by
.his work on the Proteaceae, a class of plants

out of fashion nowadays, but which the
whirligig of time may some day bring into
renewed prominence, and then Knight's
book on their culture and their characteristics
will be consulted by the cultivator as it still is
by the botanist. Forty years after this the
firm of Knight and Perry issued a synopsis
of Coniferous plants which links the past
with the present, and finds a successor in the
Manual of ConiferEe issued by their succes-
sors, Messrs. James Veitch and Sons. These
reminiscences are called up by the handsome
volume before us, a volume which is un-
doubtedly certain to become a standard work
of reference wherever horticulture is prac-
tised. We cannot pretend to forecast the
commercial future of the firm : our point is
that this book will survive the vicissitudes
that time is sure to bring, and will be — nay,
is — a striking illustration of our proposition
that it is not commercial supremacy alone
that secures the permanent reputation even
of a business house.

The " Hortus \'eitchii " is a sumptu-
ous production. Paper, type, illustra-
tions are all worthy of praise. Mis-
prints are very few and far between. So
much for appearances. Now for the con-
tents. From this point of view the title page
is most expressive. It runs thus : " Hortus
\'eitchii, a history of the rise and progress of
the nurseries of Messrs. James Veitch and
.Sons, together with an account of the
botanical collectors and hybridists employed
by them and a list of the more remarkable of
their introductions; by James H. Veitch."
Five hundred and forty-one quarto pages, il-
lustrated with fifty " photogravure " plates,
constitute the volume.

Naturally, the history of the firm and briet
biographical notes relating to its founder and
his successors occupy the first place. It is to
their enterprise and business capacity that we
owe the great results of which this book is
the chronicle and the record. Some of these
gentlemen are, happily, still with us ; they
are personally known to many of us, and by
repute almost universally. Important, there-
fore, as this section of the book is, we feel
that there is little necessity for us to dwell
upon it. The biographical notes relating to
the travellers employed by the firm and
to the work done by them are less
well known and are, therefore, of spe-
/cial value for purposes of reference.
Twenty-two of them are named, including
the two Lobbs, Pearce, John Gould Veitch
and his son James H. Veitch, Peter Veitch, of
Exeter, a cousin; Maries, Burbidge, E. H.
Wilson, and others. These names alone are
sufficient to indicate the enterprise of the firm,
the position of their employees, and the
nature of the results obtained by them.
Indications are given of the countries
traversed and explored, and of the plants in-
troduced through their agency. The former
editor of this journal. Dr. Lindley, was
enabled to publish in these columns many
details concerning the explorations of John
Gould Veitch and other intrepid col-
lectors, and to describe many of the new
species introduced by them. The wanderings
of Mr. J. H. Veitch in India, Japan, Corea,
Australia, and New Zealand were also
chronicled in our pages and form the sub-
stance of a richly illustrated volume subse-
quently issued under the title of "A Travel-

ler's Notes." At the present time the narra-
tive of the remarkable journey of Mr. E. H.
Wilson occupies much of our space, and not
a few of the many new species and introduc.
tions have already been described in our
columns, thus maintaining a tradition —
purely a disinterested one on both sides — of
which we have reason to be proud.

Following the account of the several travel-
lers come short notices of Dominy, the pio-
neer of Orchid hybridising, of Court, of
Seden, of Heal, and Tivey. With the excep-
tion of the first-named, these are all with us.
-\ volume — a large one, too — would be re-
quired to chronicle the work of these re-
nowned hybridisers and raisers. What we
owe to them is strikingly apparent at every
flower show and in most of the private estab-
lishments of the country. The approaching
Hybridisation Conference makes us hope that
3 fuller account of the labours of these hybri.
dists may be forthcoming on that occasion.

The section relating to the principal species
of Orchids introduced by Messrs. Veitch occu-
pies nearly fifty pages ; that devoted to Orchid
hybrids raised by Messrs. Veitch since 1853
takes up nearly sixty, together with a separ-
ate chapter later on. Singularly enough, the
comprehensive work on the species and varie-
ties of Orchids, entitled "A Manual of
Orchidaceous Plants," published from 1887
to 1894 by Messrs. Veitch, unless we have
overlooked the reference, is n-ot mentioned.
Incidentally, we may add that a new
edition, re-cast, and brought up to date,
would be an acceptable boon. Stove and green-
house plants fill seventy-five pages ; to insecti-
vorous plants, including Sarraccnias and Ne-
penthes, nine or ten pages are allotted,
and Mr. Harry Veitch's paper in the Journal
of the R.H.S on those plants is conveniently
reprinted. About the same space is allotted to
Ferns. Coniferous trees take up 12 pages.
Here we miss the name of Mr. A. H. Kent,
whose Manual of Conife'"-*, also issued by
Messrs. Veitch, is so useful.- Various trees
and shrubs fill thirty-five pages ; evergreens
twenty-one ; herbaceous plants twenty-six ;
bulbous plants ten; Begonias six; Hip-
peastrums four. Greenhouse Rhododen-
drons, a well-known speciality of the firm,
have a section to themselves, and so have the
species and varieties of Streptocarpus. Those
who know the splendid displays made by
Messrs. Veitch at the R.H.S. of fruits and
vegetables of various kinds will not be sur-
prised to learn that they also are included
in this volume, and more space might well
have been allotted to them could it have been
spared. It must not be thought, from the
bare enumeration of some of the principal
contents of this volume, that this is a mere
catalogue or trade list on a grand scale.
Indeed, its special value consists in the
historical and botanical details relating
to the plants mentioned, whilst purely
commercial matters are conspicuous by
their absence. To the present - day
horticulturist the work will be of the
greatest service, whilst to the future his-
torian of horticulture it will be invaluable.
A copious index renders consultation easj".
The labour in compiling this volume must
have been very great, the care expended in
its passage through the press is equally ap-
parent, for misprints are, as we have said,
few and far between.

May

1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

281

Our Supplementary Illustration. — Of

all the beautiful hybrids derived from the big-
lipped Brassavola Digbyana none surpass in
depth of beauty Brasso-Cattleya "The Baron."
Its other parent is Cattleya Lord Rothschild.
A plant was shown by Messrs. Sander & Sons
at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society
en April 3, when the hybrid received the award
of a first-class certificate. Not only is the
flower of large size, but it is, in addition, of
most perfect form, and shows elaborate freckling
and veining in its colours. The sepals are
coloured creamy-yellow, with light markings of
rose on the front, and a suffusion of purple
at the back. The broad petals, creamy-white
to primrose-yellow in colour, are beautifully
freckled with purple between the veining. The
broad lip is pleasingly fringed, and has a
ground colour of pale primrose-yellow, set off
with an emerald-green base, the middle portion
being charmingly decorated with rose-purple be-
tween the maculations, a creamy white band en-
circling the colour. The front is creamy-white,
slightly tinged with rose. It is altogether a re-
markable flower, and one of the acquisitions of
the season.

Royal Horticultural Society — The fol-
lowing circular is being issued to the Fellows of
the Society. There can be no two opinions as to
the propriety of recognising the services of the
President, and from the influential names appended
to the circular we have no doubt as to the success
of the proposal : — ' ' At the last annual meeting of
our society, held on February 13, the President,
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., K.C.V.O., V.M.H.,
completed the twenty-first year of his presidency.
When he first took up the office the society w-as at
a very low ebb indeed, having barely 1,000
Fellows, no buildings of its own, and an annually
increasing deficit. Owing in no small measure to
Sir Trevor's wise guidance, it now has almost
10,000 Fellows, a magnificent hall and offices in
Vincent Square, Westminster, and at each year's
end a sufficient balance to make one feel confident
for the immediate future. To celebrate Sir
Trevor's twenty-one years of office the council
have resolved to invite all the Fellows to subscribe
towards having his portrait painted by Professor
Herkomer to place in the society's new buildings,
and also to establish in perpetuity a large gold
medal to be called 'The Lawrence Medal,' to be
awarded to exhibits of a specially meritorious
character at the society's meetings, the want of
such a medal having been felt for a very long time.
To carry out these projects in a fitting manner,
about a thousand guineas will be required, and
we hope that you will allow us to put down your
name for a subscription. Signed, on behalf of
the council, J. Gurney Fowler, Treasurer."
Cheques should be drawn in favour of J. Gurney
Fowler, and crossed " London and County
Bank. " A considerable amount was received
ibefore the issue of the circular.

The Weather. — Mr. Fitzherbert writes
from South Devon : — " Last night (April 2-5) we had
the first rain of the month. Everything is terribly
parched, and several plants of mine are dead,
fortunately none of the rarest. Sutherlandia
frutescens is now beautifully in flower in the
open garden."

Eucalyptus in Jersey. — Owing to enquiries
having been made as to a very fine specimen
of Eucalyptus Globulus, alluded to in these
pages some years since as growing in Jersey, we
addressed a letter on the subject to Mr. H.
Becker, nurseryman in that island, and he has
been kind enough to send us the following
information: — "The specimen of Eucalyptus
Globulus referred to was fully 110 feet high, and
was for a number of years one of the attractions
for visitors to this island. The gardens at La
•Chair, Rozel Bay, were at that time sheltering

many rare plants and tropical specimens,
which the former proprietor, the late Mr.
Curtis, of botanical fame, managed with much
skill and patience to establish in a minimum of
soil and with a maximum of all the difficulties
the gardener may have confronting him. The
situation was a practically barren rock within
200 yards of the sea, overlooking the straits
and the coast of France. Wonderful things
grew upon, and under the shelter of, that rock,
but, lest we might forget, our little island was
visited in 1896, I think, by a frost of some
severity, and much damage was done. A great
many beautiful trees and shrubs were destroyed,
including our pet f;ucalyptus. The present
proprietor of the gardens has altered that once
beautiful wilderness, and by the expenditure of
some £10,000 has erected walls and large
pockets for the reception of a certainly very
comprehensive collection of rare and valuable
plants. Waterworks and electric light, conser-
vatories, and rustic bridges with no end of
trellis work, will probably succeed in producing
a grand ensemble in time, but we shall miss the
scramble amongst the wilderness and the rough
gems. H. Becker.''

CURATORSHIP OF LIVERPOOL BoTANIC GaR-

DENS.— .>\s we announced briefly last week it was
decided at a meeting of the Liverpool Parks and
Gardens Committee, held on April 25, to recom-
mend the appointment of Mr. Walter Hackett,
foreman of the Tropical Department at Kew, as
Assistant Curator of the Liverpool Botanic
Gardens. On the death of Mr. Henry
Herbert, Chief Superintendent of Parks and
Gardens, Mr. James Gltiridge, Curator of the
Botanic Gardens and Deputy Superintendent, was
promoted, and now vacates his house there, to take
up his residence at Sefton Park as Chief Super-
intendent and Curator of Parks and Gardens.
The position of Deputy Superintendent is held by
Mr. W. Street, of Newsham Park. Mr. Hackett
is a frequent contributor to our pages, and we
wish him every success in his new duties.

Changes at Kew.— In consequence of the
above appointment of Mr. Hackett, Mr. C. P.
Raffil will take over the care of the Tropical
Department at Kew, while Mr, W. Taylor, for-
merly deputy foreman of the Tropical Department,
will succeed Mr. Raffil in the Temperate House.
The Royal English Arboricultural
Society. — The railway rate committee of this
society has enquired into tlie subject of the charges
of English railway companies for traffic in English
timber, and it appears evident that the common
rate is about 2W. per ton, per mile, with addition
for " terminal" services, and that there is through-
out Britain a differentiation in favour of foreign
timber. On the Continent, although there, native
grown timber is of higher value than in England,
the charges are much less. For greater distances,
the disparity of rate. English and foreign is more
marked. Such a disparity between British and
Continental rates suggests the question, "Do
these higher rates generally apply to all railway
traffic in this country? " Apparently not, as the
charges for carriage on corn, per ton, per mile,
differ but little in British and Continental countries,
therefore, it will be seen that the application of
heavier rates throughout in Britain is not general.
The committee has considered a case where timber
with a cost of only Is. per foot cube, required to
bear a railway company's charge of 7d. per foot
cube, to get it to the nearest market. The follow-
ing is a simple instance in review of rates and
their relation to value : — The rate from Paddington
to Worcester on timber (English) value £1, tape
over bark, 144 divisor, 23s. 6d. per ton ; on grain,
value say £10, 14s. lOd. per ton ; on coke (Wor-
cester to Paddington) value say £1, 5s. 9d. per
ton ; on foreign timber, deals, boards, battens,
value say /14 14s. lOd. per ton. It will there-

fore be seen that the railway "companies, method
of approaching this subject is a disadvantageous
one for the landowner or grower in this country.
The report of the departmental committee on
British Forestry, 1902, said that land quite capable
of producing high-class timber employs only one
shepherd per 1,000 acres, if used as sheep-run,
whilst the same ground, if planted for timber-
growing gives employment to at least 10 men per
1,000 acres. Perhaps in this connection of labour
a greater benefit arises even than the actual v;age,
namely, the time when the labour is called for.
Felling and planting are mainly winter occupations.
.Agricultural labour can therefore be profitably
kept throughout the year, thus increasing the
wage, whilst equalising and economising the em-
ployment. The native timber which is now coming
into the market was planted at a time when timber-
possessed a much higher value than it does now.
This was no doubt partly due to the duty on foreign
timber, but the reduction in value has been princi-
pally on account of the competition of foreign
timber, and the extra cost of hauling British. The
general tariff of charges made by the railway
companies was arranged at a time when native
timber possessed a higher value; now that home
products have become so reduced in price and the
competition of foreign timber is so keen, it would
appear necessary to reconsider and reduce the
system of railway charges to meet the altered
circumstances.

The lately issued part of the Trans-
actions of this Society contains a report of the
twenty-fourth annual meeting, held in ,\ugust,
1905, and of the subsequent excursion to
Belgium. On that occasion the members
visited the Liege Exhibition, certain woodlands
in the Ardennes, the forest of Soignes, the
woods of Chenoy, and near Ottignes 500 (sic\
acres of glasshouses devoted to grape-growing.
The domain of Tervueren was visited and
the arboretum, under the charge of M. Bommee,
was inspected. This consists of 75 acres given
by the King for educational purposes ; the trees
are arranged according to their geographical
origin. The forestry museum in the Brussels
Botanic Garden was also visited. A very in-
teresting statement is made as to the formation
of an arboretum near Oxford on the model of
that at Tervueren. About two thousand plants
representing one hundred and fifty species of
Conifers were presented by the Hon. Mark
Rolle to the Society. There were, we presume,
the specimens which excited so much attention
at the first Park Royal Show. They were planted
out at Engelfield Green on the Bagshot sand,
and have since been transferred, through the
liberality of Magdalen College, Oxford, to an
oakwood at Tubney on deep sand. Mr. Elwes
offers to contribute two hundred exotic trees,
and Sir Hugh Beevor has presented some
American Elms. This is a satisfactory begin-
ning, and we hope that the example will be
followed at Wisley, where a small arboretum
for educational purposes might be established
with advantage.

The Birmingham Botanic Gardens

■Visitors to the Midland Daffodil Show last week
were loud in their praise of the condition of
the Botanical Gardens. Considerable work has
been done under the direction of Mr. Hu.m-
phreys during the past winter in moving and
replanting the Rhododendrons. The plants were
formerly in large measure massed together in
central groups with paths round them, and the
alteration has consisted partly in removing them
to either side and making a path through the
centre. This work has necessitated minor addi-
tional alterations, which have tended to improve
the general effect, and open up views where
formerly they were only of the most limited
description. The immediate portion around the
Rhododendron garden has the appearance oi

282

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 5, 1S06.

being of less restricted area, and the well-made
paths, with neat turf edgings, are a great im-
provement. Almost all the Rhododendrons, as
well as hardy Azaleas, are unusually well fur-
nished with flower buds. A much needed im-
provement has also been made at the entrance
to the gardens. On the extensive rockery during
the first day of the show there were many in-
teresting plants in flower, particularly Primula
rosea, P. denticulata, Aubrietia graeca, etc. ;
Alyssums, Fritillaria Meleagris, and the variety
alba, and Magnolia stellata. On the second day
of the exhibition (Thursday), however, how
everything was altered ! Snow in great flakes
f6U_during the greater part of the day, and
eventually the rockery looked truly like an Al-
pine garden, some of the flowers being partially
hidden by the covering of snow. The price paid
for this effect, however, was the loss of the
flowers, which had already opened. In the
glass houses, as well as out of doors, there were
indications of everything having been done to
make the gardens attractive during the coming
season.

Malformed Orchid.— Messrs. Sander, of
Bruges, kindly send us a ilower of Dendrobium
Phal<enopsis, presenting some peculiarities. The
pedicel is flattened as if two were joined together,
and the parts of the flower are the following :—
Five sepals, normal ; four petals, one lip-like ; two
lips and two columns. It would seem, then, that
two flowers have become united. This being so
there should be 14 parts to the flower ; one part
has been squeezed out of existence, probably
one of the sepals, and one of the petals has
assumed a Up-like character.

Flowers in Season.— Mr. W. E. Gumble-
TON, of Queenstown, Ireland, obligingly writes:—
" Pittosporum eugenioides is now in flower. It
does not bloom in a small state but a fine, tall
specimen bush of some 15 feet high, in my next
door neighbour's garden, commenced to bloom
last year and is now covered with bunches of small
yellow flowers on the apex of every branchlet.
I received yesterday from a Cornish garden a fine
bunch of flowers of the very rare, pure white form
of the handsome Myosotidium nobile, the giant
Forget-me-not of Chatham Island. I think it
makes a charming companion to the ordinary
form. The sender writes that he hopes it will
come true from seed, but this, I should think,
cannot be relied on, as it is probably a seed-
ling albino which will revert. Some of my
bunches of the new Wistaria multijuga rosea have
been caught by late frost, but I hope three or four
of them will open. My unique plant of the hand-
some Arctotis decurrens of Jacquin is now, for
the fourth year, in great beauty with many flowers,
but will not seed or give cuttings."

National Sweet Pea Society. — We are
asked to state that Mr. Horace J. Wright, who
has carried out the duties of Secretary to this
society with much success during the past four
years, has been compelled for personal reasons to
resign his position. The committee accepted his
resignation with much regret, and expressed
its high appreciation of the work he has accom-
plished. The duties of Sscretary will now devolve
upon Mr. Charles H. Curtis, who has always
been closely associated with Mr. H.J. Wright in
the work of the society, and to him at Adelaide
Road, Brentford, Middlesex, all communications
should be addressed. Mr. H. J. Wright will act
as a member of the Executive Committee.

Bacteria. — It is asserted by two Italian bac-
teriologists, Serafini and Arata, that harmful,
disea,se-inducing bacteria are more abundant
around than in forests. Useful bacteria feeding
on dead matter are most plentiful in the forests,
and no disease-producing bacteria have as yet
i;een found in forest-soil according to some details
quoted by Mr. Margerison in the Trniisacticiis
of the English Aboriciiltiirat Society.

Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund.— We

would remind our readers that the eighteenth
Annual Festival Dinner of the Royal Gardeners'
Orphan Fund will take place on Thursday, May
10, in the Hotel Cecil, Strand, at 6. SO for 7 o'clock
p.m. J. Gdrnev Fowler, Esq., treasurer of the
Royal Horticultural Society, will preside, and it is
confidently hoped that he will be supported by a
large and representative company . The institution
is doing much valuable work on behalf of garden-
ers' orphans, and the amount of the annual
subscription being much smaller than it ought to
be, there is need for making every effort to raise
as large a sum as possible in connection with the
annual festival. At the last election fewer than
one-half of the candidates could be elected, and
unless a larger revenue can be raised the same
must happen again next year. Mr. Brian Wynne,
secretary, 30, Wellington Street, Strand, will be
pleased to hear from any of our readers who are
willing to afford financial help or who can be
present at the dinner. Donations may also be sent
to any one of the following gentlemen who have
kindly consented to act as stewards: W. R.
Alderson, Hersham Road, Walton-on-Thames ;
Horner Ashe, Arundel Lodge Gardens, Ilkley ;
John Assbee, Market Office, Covent Garden, W.C. ;
W. Y. Baker, Thames Bank Iron Co., Upper
Ground Street, S.E. ; George H. Barr, 11, 12, 13,
King Street, London, W.C. ; W. Bates, J.P.,
Cross Deep, Twickenham, S.W. ; WiUiam Bull,
536, King's Road, Chelsea, S.W. ; G. Bunyard,
V.M.H., The Royal Nurseries, Maidstone: G.
Caselton, Garden Superintendent, Crystal Palace,
S.E. ; John Clayton, 12, Royal Arcade, Norwich ;
William H. Cutbush, The Nurseries. Barnet,
Herts ; George Cuthbert, The Nurseries, South-
gate, N. ; George H. Cuthbert, Ashleigh, Old
Southgate, N. ; C. Dixon, Holland House Gar-
dens, Kensington, W. ; F. C. Fear, Brynhyfryd,
Portswood Road, Southampton ; W. Harman,
The Gardens, Newnham Paddox, Lutterworth ;
Edwin Hillier, 95, High Street, Winchester ; W.
Howe, Park Hill Gardens, Streatham Common,
S.W. ; D. Ingamells, 27, Catherine Street, Covent
Garden, W.C. : T.K. Ingram, Parkstone Nurseries,
Dorset ; J. Lyne, Foxbury Gardens, Chislehurst,
Kent ; J. F. McLeod, Dover House Gardens, Roe-
hampton ; H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nursery,
Upper Edmonton; J. W. Moorman, The Lodge,
Victoria Park, E. ; T. A. Morris, 67-G8, Cheapside,
E.G. ; Whitpaine Nutting, 106, Southwark Street,
S.E. ; R. Hooper Pearson, Gardeners' Chronicle
Office, and 40, Brocklebank Road, Wandsworth,
S.W. ; W. Poupart, Marsh Farm, Twickenham ;
G. Reynolds, Gunnersbury Park Gardens, Acton,
W. ; Francis Robinson, Cathedral Street, Man-
chester; W. Roupell, Harvey Lodge, Roupell
Park, S.W. ; T. W. Sanders, 124, Embleton
Road, Lewisham, S.E. ; David W. Thomson,
113, George Street, Edinburgh; W. P. Thomson,
25, BoUo Lane, Chiswick, W. ; Harry J. Veitch,
V.M.H. , 34, Redcliffe Gardens, London, S.W. ;
James Vert, Audley End Gardens, Saffron
Walden; J. H. Witty, St. James's Villa, Swain's
Lane, Highgate, N. ; Godfrey Woodstock, Drury
Lane House, Covent Garden, W.C.

Bulbous Flowers in the Birmingham
Public Parks. — In the Birmingham Daily Mad
for April 24 appeared an appreciative note on the
flowering bulbs in the city parks, from which we
make the following extracts : — The total number
of bulbs of various kinds now coming up is no
fewer than 133,400, which are distributed in
11 parks and open spaces. In Cannon Hill Park,
which is, of course, the show place as regards
flowers, there are 32,000—15,000 Tulips, 10,000
Narcissi, 4,000 each of Hyacinths and Crocuses,
2,000 each of Gladioli, Snowdrops, and Spanish
Irises, and 1,000 each of Anemones, Winter
Aconites and Liliums. The next largest number
is to be seen at Summerfield Park, Dudley Road,

where 20,800 bulbs are blooming. Here, again.,
the Tulips are in greatest profusion, with Narcissi
nearly as numerous. Then comes Victoria Park,
Small Heath, which has absorbed 19,600 of the
bulbs for this year, Aston Park, with 12,800, and
Calthorpe Park, Pershore Road, with 9,000 is
next. There is a drop down to 4,500 at Queen's
Park, Harborne, and the smallest number of all
is devoted to Adderley Park, where 1,000 only
were put in. It may be interesting to note that
the Council House window boxes absorb 1,600
Tulips and 1,000 Crocuses, Thousands of Violas
carpet the Tulip, Hyacinth, and Crocus beds, and
Polyanthus are being tried in several of the parks
this year with great success. One is sorry to miss
the good old English Wallflower, but what is
suitable to a garden will not always do well in large
open spaces, and it has been found that the ex-
posure to the cold winds which sweep across the
parks is fatal to Wallflowers. The efforts of
Mr. Morter, the superintendent of the Birm-
ingham Parks, have been very successful, and the
good condition of the parks generally is much
appreciated.

Flowers in Season. — From Messrs. Dobbie
& Co., Rothesay, we have received a selection of
Violas and Pansies in named varieties, including
some of the best kinds excellent in form and quality.
Japanese Larch. — .\t Bothalhaugh, near
Morpeth, is a fine clump of Japanese Larch,
considered by experts to be the largest and finest
trees of their kind in the county.

British Gardeners- Association. — At the
last meeting of the Executive Council of this
association, held in the Royal Horticultural Hall.
Westminster, Mr. R. Hooper Pearson in the
chair, the Secretary reported that 21 new mem-
bers had joined since the previous meeting, bring-
ing the total membership up to 891. Arrangements
were made for the annual general meeting, which
is to be held at the Essex Hall, Essex Street,
Strand (close to the Temple Gardens), on Wednes-
day, May 30. at 6-30 p.m., when a large attendance
is anticipated.

Mr. William Denning, J. P. — Mr. Denning,
of Heathfield Nursery, Hampton, has recently
been appointed a County Magistrate. He began
his career as a gardener at Grimston Park, near
Tadcaster, about 1850. After some time spent at
Kew, Tortworth Court, Patshull, and Bolton Hall,.
Bedale, he returned to Grimston in 1808 as head
gardener to the late Lord Londesborough, in
whose service he remained, there and at Norbiton,
until he began business for himself about 1886.
From the outset of his going to Hampton, Mr.
Denning took an interest in the local government
of the district. As time went on he filled various
responsible offices in connection therewith, finally
becoming chairman of the District Council, hence
his qualification for the honour recently conferred
upon him.

Fortunate Ventnor. — As a further re-
minder of the favourable character of the Vent-
nor climate, we have been sent a Lettuce plant
which has been grown in the open ground by
Mr. Cantalow, Grenville Cottage. The Lettuce
is a perfectly-developed, full-sized plant of the
Cabbage type, the variety probably being that
excellent one known as " All the Year Round."
Our correspondent states that in the same gar-
den there are several hundred such plants in
similar condition. With the Lettuce was a
spray of Scabious in flower, and a nearly-
developed flower of Souvenir de la Malmaison
Carnation, also grown out of doors.

Publications Received.— BuHc/itt of the
Department of Agriculture, Jamaica. March. Con-
tents: Cultiv;\tion and marketing of Citrus fruits, H.
G. Levy; Tobacco, &c. — Atintial Report of the Agri-
cultural Experiment Stations of the Louisiana State
University. — U.S. Departmentof Agriculture, Farmers'
Bulletins, No. 245. Renovation of Worn-out Soils, by
W. J. Spillman; 247. Control of the Codling Moth
and Apple Scab. C. L. Marlatt and VV. A. Orton ; 238.
Citrus Fruit Crowing in the Gulf States, by P. H. Rolfs.

May

1806.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

283

TREES AND SHRUBS.

PYRUS SPECTABILIS.
Sixty years ago Loudon referred to this tree as
*' by far the most showy of all the different species
of Pyrus." Perhaps one could not, with the same
assurance, say the same to-day, for we now possess
such fine Crabs as Pyrus floribunda atrosanguinea
and P. Scheideckeri which Loudon never knew,
and which possess a beauty as alluring as that of
P. spectabilis. I have never seen an individual
tree of any species, however, more beautiful

profusion of blossom it bears. When fully grown
the leaf is 2 to 3 inches long, ovate-oblong,
glossy green, quite smooth, and shallowly toothed.
In nearly all the large trees in cultivation
the flowers are more or less double, that is the
petals usually exceed in number the normal five.
In the bud state they are of a deep rosy-red
colour, but they become paler on expanding,
although still retaining a lovely blush tint. The
species is rather variable, and one of its best forms
is that with large, well-coloured flowers known
under the. varietal name of Kaido. 11'. J . Butii.

go off in the same manner as those enclosed.
in about 24 hours. This is the first time I
have experienced such injury to Strawberries,
and I am anxious to know the cause. F. It'.
[The carpels or pips had evidently been removed
by some small animal or insect, which had not
greatly injured the fleshy receptacle. Have any
of our other readers experienced similar trouble ?
Ed.]

Supporting Strawberries. — When visiting
the gardens at Hatfield House some years ago X
noticed every truss of fruit on the pot Straw-
berries suspended on small crutches, probably cut
from old birch brooms, and I consider a method

[From a pliotogiapti by Mi. E. J. V.'ulUs.
Fig. 117. — PYRl'S SPECTABILIS FLOWERING AT KEV," IN THE LAST WEEK OF APRIL.

than the specimen here figured (fig. 117) was
at the time it was photographed. It repre-
sents P. spectabilis in the collection of species
of Pyrus at Kew, and is about 20 feet high.
Pyrus spectabilis is a native of China, and it
was a happy thought of Mr. Wallis to include a
glimpse of the Pagoda in the picture. The pre-
cise date of its introduction to Europe does not
appear to be known, but Dr. Fothergill — one of
the most famous arboriculturists of the eighteenth
century— is credited with having been the first to
cultivate it in this country. It was growing in his
garden at Upton House, Stratford (in Essex), in
1780. At the time of flowering, which is from the
middle of April to the second week of May, the
tree has but scant foliage and the young leaves are
sometimes almost hidden by the extraordinary

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ly his correspondents.)

LiLiuM CANDIDUM (see pp. 233 and 251). — I
enclose a seed-pod taken from one of the plants here
last year. The plants are growing in a border
facing to the south, in poor soil which is very dry.
They have produced seeds on several occasions,
and have not been hand fertilized, nor are there
any other Lilies in the garden. Seedlings have
been raised from similar seeds by Dr. Trow, of
Cardiff University College, but they have not yet
flowered. H. Haddon, Gmdcner to J. J. Neale, Esq.,
Tymmod, P,uk Road. Penarth.

Strawberries Injured. — I send you a few
Strawberry fruits about which I would like your
opinion. We get them almost ripened when they

of growing Strawberries that was found to be
practicable by the late Mr. George Norman could
hardly be detrimental to size in the berries.
Therefore, the raised wire hoops (see D. 267)
would be beneficial. F. G. Brewer, Bryntirioi:
Garden, Bont Ddtt, Dolgelly, Merionethshire.

The Yellow-Flowered Saxifrages. — I
should like to supplement the admirable notes on
" Sortie Yellow-Flowered Saxifrages" which
appeared in the Gardeners' Chronicle of April 21,
pp. 249-50-51, by a reference to two new varieties
of the Boydii class which are not yet generally
known, and which are only now, I believe, being
distributed. These are called " Faldonside " and
" Cherry-trees," respectively from the names of the
homes of Mr. W. B. Boyd and Mr. James Boyd, the
latter the raiser of that beautiful Saxifrage, S.
Boydii X . Both differ in some respect, so far as
colour is concerned, from that fine plant, but both
have mevics which entitle them to consideratio;:.

ISi

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Ma\ 5, 1906.

The first, S. " Faldonside," may be described as a
lighteryellowS.Boydii X , but with larger and better
formed flowers. While in depth of colouring it is
inferior to S. Boydii X , it is a really beautiful Saxi-
frage, and those who have seen a frame full of it, as
the writer has done, will appreciate its beauty even
more than those who have only seen a solitary
small plant. The second, S. " Cherrytrees," is
still lighter in colour, and may be described as of
sulphur yellow, passing off to nearly white. It,
again, is less effective than Boydii, but is also of
pretty Saxifrage which is deserving of inclusion in
a collection of the best Saxifrages of this type. I
understand that these are both seedhngs from S.
Boydii X . The foliage of these varieties is more like
that of S. Boydii than is that of S. Boydii alba,
which, it always appears to me, should not have
been called by the name it has received, a* it comes
nearer to S. Burseriana than to S. Boydii x . I may
add that S. juniperifolia is not so easy of cultiva-
tion in some gardens as Mr. Jenkins has found it.
I know some growers who can only keep it in health
by covering it with a small bell-glass, tilted up on
one side, during summer and winter. In other
gardens, on the contrary, it grows easily, and I
recently saw a very fine plant in good bloom (for
this species) without any special care. In my
present garden it promises to do much better than
in my former one, where it required a good deal of
care to keep it in health, as it neeijed there to be
covered in the vray already mentioned, while here
it is fully exposed and is much healthier than any
plants I previously had. I am now speaking of
plants cultivated on the rockery and not in a frame.
5. Ainott, Suiiiiymcad, Diiiii flics, Scotland.

Independent Sectional Boilers. — With
reference to Mr. Divers' note on these boilers on
p. 188, I had two erected by Messrs. Foster &
Pearson in 1903, the one a Robin Hood and the
other a Mona boiler, in the place of two of the
old saddle pattern. I find them a great improve-
ment, being more economical, and furnishing heat
quicker. On looking through my bills for fuel I
find these two boilers have consumed 23 tons of
fuel less than the older ones in a corresponding
period, and, furthermore, I can maintain a suitable
temperature with far less stoking than formerly.
I may state that both the boilers are covered with
asbestos, C. A. Bayjord, Shu^boroiigh, Stafford.

Prunus Pissardi. — Since acquainting the
Rev. David R. Williamson with the fruiting of
Prunus Pissardi at St. Mary's Isle, I have learned
of two other places in the south of Scotland where
it fruits. These are Munches, near Dalbeattie,
well-known to the readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle
as the estate of the late Mr. W. H. Maxwell, of
Munches, an occasional contributor to its pages,
and now belonging to his son, Mr. W. J. Herries
Maxwell, late member of Parliament for Dum-
friesshire; and The Grove. 3 miles from Dumfries,
the property of Mr. Hyslop Maxwell. In
both of these gardens it has fruited, but at The
Grove the fruit is seldom allowed to ripen on
account of the birds eating it. Munches is in a
rather mild district not far from the sea, but The
Grove is further inland and in a cold district, and
one in which 23° of frost were registered last
March. S. Ariiotl. [It fruits not uncommonly in
the South. — Ed.]

Rhododendron mundulum. — I do not know
this Rhododendron, but from Mr. Arnott's descrip-
tion I suppose it is one of the first set of hybrids
which were raised from R. arboreum, R. caucasi-
cum, and R. catawbiense. These were the three
first species to be used for hybridising, and
from these we have Nobleanum x , altaclarense
X , Russellianum x , Russellianum superbum x ,
Londinense x, Lefebvreanum x, &c., inclining
most to R. arboreum, and Jacksoni, venustum
X, Waterer's caucasicum, &c., more approach-
ing R. caucasicum. The catawbiense blood
does not appear very strongly in the older
hybrids, except in the magenta or lilac tint
of the flowers, and in the general hardiness
of the plants. With those \arieties that received
names there were many others which were not
named at the time, and these old plants — many of
them early-flowering and also very handsome — are
to be found in many parts of the country, notably
in Devon and Cornwall, in South Wales, at Kew,
and in some parts of Ireland. There are several
here, but as we suffer badly from spring frosts we
do not often see them to perfection, although else-
where they are well worth growing in sheltered
places. Besides those varieties that flower in
February and March there are several that bloom in
April and May which are first-class in colour and

habit, and are not so liable to injury by frost. Of
these Ascot Brilliant, a hybrid from R. Thomsoni,
with bright scarlet, semi-tubular llowers ; Sun of
Austerlitz, scarlet ; Prince Camille de Rohan,
rosy-pink; Grand Arab, crimson; Broughtoni,
rosy-crimson ; and Jacksoni, bright pink, may be
recommended as being good growers an.d very
free bloomers. There are others which are equally
good, but the above are given as a selection likely
to suit the most fastidious. J. Clark, Bagshut,
Surrev.

SOCISTIEIS.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Mav 1. — There was a very good display of
exhibits in the Royal Horticultural Hall on
Tuesday last, which was " May Day," and the
show was visited by a very large number of
Fellows. Orchids, as usual, formed a very im-
portant part of the exhibition, and the Commit-
tee charged with the inspection of these plants
awarded to novelties one First-Class Certificate,
four Awards of Merit, and one Botanical Certifi-
cate.

There appeared to be rather fewer good novel-
ties before the Floral CoMiriTTEE than usual,
the only awards made being two Awards of
Merit, one to Carnation " H. Elliott" and one
t3 Pelargonium Clorinda. A very remarkable
collection of Auricula plants in pots from Mr.
]as. Douglas was awarded a gold medal.

The Fkuit and Vegetable Committee had
merely to inspect some very fine Strawberry
fruits from W. M. Bullivant, Esq., Becken-
ham. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

The Narcissus Committee recommended
awards which included one First-Class Certifi-
cate, three Awards of Merit, and one Botanical
Certificate.

In the afternoon there was a lecture by Mr.
Edward Mawley on " Phenology as an Aid to
Horticulture."

Floral Committee.

Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. G. H. Barr, Jno. Green, T. W. Turner,
C. J. Salter, Chas. Jeffries, Chas. Dixon, Jas.
Douglas, C. E. Pearson, C. E. Shea, W. Thomp-
son, E. H. Jenkins, W. Cuthbertson, M. J.
James, Geo. Paul, R. Hooper Pearson, '\V.
Howe, C. R. Fielder, C. Blick, J. Jennings, J.
Hudson, Geo. Gordon, C. T. Druery, and H. J.
Cutbush.

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthdert, Southgate Nur-
series, Middlesex, staged a large batch of Aza-
leas, of both pontica and mollis varieties ; a
specimen of the beautiful Pink Pearl Rhododen-
dron; a number of zonal and ivy-leaved Pelar-
goniums ; and some delightful small plants of
Weigela Eva Rathke. These last-named were
not more than 18 inches high, but they were
crowded Avith their pleasing flowers. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Sir Samuel Scott, Westbury Manor, Brack-
ley (gr. Mr. F. Tapper), contributed a very nice
display of Carnations. Both tree and Souvenir
de la Malmaison varieties were included, a
Bamboo epergne filled with the latter being ex-
ceptionally good. The yellow Cecilia was also
shown well. (Silver Flora Medal.)

The Hon. Walter Rothschild, Tring Park,
Tring (gr. Mr. Arthur Dyel, showed a batch
of Gloriosas, among which one growing in a pan
had much finer and brighter flowers than the
remaining specimens, the foliage also appearing
broader and of a paler colour. This was labelled
G. Rothschildiana, of which we presented a
description and illustration in our issue for
May 23, 1903. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, staged a batch of blue and rose-
coloured Hydrangeas, plants of Medinilla mag-
nifica, Tillandsia Lindeni, and Epiphyllum
Gaertneri in flower. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

i\Ir. II. B. M.w, Dyson's Lane Nurseries,
Upper Edmonton, showed many varieties of
zonal Pelargoniums, the pots being hidden
among a wealth of choice Ferns ; also plants of
Statice profusa, Ixoras, herbaceous Calceolarias,
and some Pansies and Violas. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Middlesex, staged a collection of miscellaneous
greenhouse plants. We noticed a nice specimen
plant of the old Brachysema Drumniondi, whose
scarlet papilionaceous flowers are produced in
twos and threes in the leaf axils.

Messrs. Low also staged a fine pan of the yel-
low Auricula " Queen Alexandra," a batch of
the florif,;rous Schizanthus Wisetonensis, and
many beautiful Carnations and Roses. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Paul & Sons, the Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, displayed several interesting plants
and inflorescences. They had a specimen of the
white or pale-yellow fruited Aucuba, a plant of
Escallonia Philippiana, Ceanothus punctata,
Quercus Daimio, with handsome Fig-like foli-
age, Berberis stenophylla x , Amelanchier asi-
atica, Roses, Rhododendrons, &c. — a very inter-
esting collection.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
again made a brilliant display with trusses of
zonal Pelargoniums, and they had, in addition,
bunches of the show type. Adjoining the Pelar-
goniums were flowers of gorgeous varieties of
Phyllocacti, and a batch of the neat little rose-
coloured P. phyllanthoides " German Empress."
Messrs. Cannell also presented a dozen trained
Roses, of such varieties as Francois Foucard,
I/Ideal, Philadelphia Rambler, Paul Transon,
&c., all of which were covered with a wealth of
flowers. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Paul &. Son, Waltham Cross,
Herts, brought some beautiful new Rambler
Roses. One named Wedding Bells bears some
iesemblar.ce to Lady Gay and the charming
Trier, whose white flowers hang in dense clus-
ters. Then there were also seen the new H. T.
Warrior, with charming buds of scarlet-rose
colour, the bronze Crepuscule, and others.
Pyrus Scheideckeri, resembling plumes of
flowers, and the larger-flowered P. Malus angus-
tifolia completed a pretty group. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond, staged
a charming group of plants in one corner of the
Hall. At the background was a tall plant of the
double Gorse, and below some plants of Phila-
delphus Boul© d'Argent that were literally
wreaths of blossom, and in the foreground and
around were nice specimens of Clematis. Ad-
joining the group were three baskets of coloured
DracEenas, the variety superba being very hand-
some.

W. M. Cazai.et, Esq., Fairlawn, Tonbridge
(gr. Mr. F. Cubberley, displayed trusses of
hardy Rhododendrons, principally hybrids of
R. ponticum and R. arboreum, in many shades
of colours.

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Stamford and Peter-
borough, showed Verbenas Scarlet King and
Miss Willmott, Heliotrope, Cactus-flowered
Pelargoniums, Aubrietias, iVc.

Mr. A. R. Upton, the Guildford Hardy Plant
Nursery, Millmead, Guildford, showed pans of
miscellaneous rock-garden plants — Daphne
Fioniana, Euphorbia polychroma, some neat
little plants of Phlox canadensis, flowering pro-
fusely, and several other plants of merit.

Messrs. Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Feltham, Mid-
dlesex, showed .Alpine and hardy plants in
plenty. Several pans of Primula Sieboldi, in
many varying colours, Sarracenia rubra, S.
Drummondi, .S. flava, together with Irises, Au-
brietias, Gentians, &c., all contributed to a good
display.

A bank of colour was seen in the batch of
Cinerarias staged by Mr. A. Ll. Gwillim, Cam-
bria Nursery, New Eltham, Kent, all of which
were of the stellata or star type. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Dobp.ie & Co., Rothesay and Marks
Tey, again displayed a collection of Violas and
Pansies as at the last meeting. The exhibit
demonstrated the excellence of the strain of these
useful bedding subjects. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Mr. Henry Eckford, Wem, Shropshire, dis-
played vases of Sweet Peas, obviously grown
under glass.

Mr. Robert Sydenham, Tenby Street, Bir-
mingham, also displayed vases of Sweet Peas
and some well-grown Tulips and Lily of the
Valley, grown solely in moss fibre, and the
pots were without means of drainage.

Mr. James Douglas, Edenside, Great Book-
ham, .Surrev, showed a batch of Auriculas that
may truly be described as magnificent ; indeed,
we doubt if the display has before been equalled,
much less excelled. VVhen we mention that over
300 plants were shown, and each a perfect speci-
men of its type, some idea will be gained of the
beauty of the exhibit. The varieties were about
equally divided between the show and Alpine
sections; and these again were represented by

May 5, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

285

the most famous kinds in the various colours
and classes. Thus there were seen the beautiful
Thetis, with richest of purple shades, Duke of
York, J'losy Morn, Ziska, Zingara, and Urania,
all of the Alpine section, each worthy a descrip-
tion which considerations of space alone for-
bid ; also the very best of the show Auriculas,
such as the grey-edged Olympus and Marmion,
Abbe Listz (prince among green edges), the
beautiful Kuby (a "self" of high quality),
Heatherbeli, and a host of other worthy flowers.
(Gold Medal.)

Some good Auriculas were also shown by E.
A. H..\MBRO, Esq., Hayes Place, Hayes, Kent
(gr. J. Grandfield), together with a meritorious
display of hardy plants. Mention must also be
made of the Polyanthus, Gentiana verna (very
fine). Orchis fusca (well-grown plants), Pole-
monium confeitum, &c. Adjoining the hardy
plants the same exhibitor staged two dozen
cpeciniens of Begonia Royalty, a variety of
rather lax habit, and with a tendency to become
drawn. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

The Misses Hopkin.s, Mere, Knutsford, showed
a small selection of Alpine plants, among which
we noticed the charming rose-coloured Daisy
Alice and a number of bedding Auriculas.

Messrs. Peed * So.v, West Norwood, had a
number of Gloxinia flowers, herbaceous and
Alpine flowers , Auriculas, Calla EUiottiana,
large flowering Clematis, Pansies, etc., set off
by a number of ornamental Maples.

, Mr. G. Reuthe, Fox Hill Hardy Plant Nur-
sery, Keston, Kent, had a group full of in-
teresting plants. Much space was occupied with
inflorescences of Rhododendrons ; the yellow
Edwardsia microphylla, Bongardia Rauwolfi, a
Berberidaceous plant with anthers that show the
usual valvate dehiscence, Pinus parviflora but
IS inches high, yet carrying a whorl of its tiny
cones, Lervisea Tweedyi, and Daffodils, Auri-
culas, Tulips, and similar spring flowers. (Sil-
ver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Tiios. Cripps & Son, Tunbridge Wells
Nurseries, Kent, staged a group of large flower-
ing Clematis in a setting of ornamental Maples.
The claret-coloured Clematis Ville de Lyon and
the large-flowered C. Symeana deserve a word
of mention, although the collection of these
flowers was generally good.

Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Lowfield Nurseries,
Crawley, staged a small collection of Alpines
and a pan of their new bedding Pansy Mark
Mills.

Mr. Amos Peeev, Winchmore Hill, and En-
field, Middlesex, showed Phlox pilosa. P. Nel-
soni, P. canadensis, etc., and a fine selected
form of Campanula persicifolia alba.

Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Woking Nur-
sery, Surrey, staged a small but good collection
of Alpine plants and sprays of shrubs suitable
for the rock garden. Some well-grown plants of
Auricula Golden Queen were noticed.

Messrs. G. & A. Ci.aek, Ltd., the Nurseries,
Dover, showed a few boxes of rock garden sub-
jects and vases of hardy flowers.

Mr. H. Elliott, Hassocks Nurseries, Sussex,
displayed a small stand of American or winter-
flowering Carnations, including Elliott's Queen
of I^ngland, Florence Wooller, and other new
varieties.

Mr. A. F. DuTTON, Iver, Bucks, staged a
group of Carnations in the style for which this
grower is famed — Mrs. Thos. Lawson, En-
chantress, Nelson Fisher, Floriana, Lieut. Perry
(white), and many others of notable varieties.
(Silver Gilt Banksian Medal).

Mr. N. Lowes, the Perennial Nurseries,
Leversdown, Bridgwater, displayed a collection
of St. Brigid Anemones, similar to those dis-
played by him at the last meeting.

Awards of Meeit.

Carnation H. Elliott. — A first-class decorative
English-raised tree Carnation, with flowers 4
inches or more across, having fimbriated petals
of rich rose colour, very fragrant. The stems
are rather less strong than are required by the
large flowers, but the calyces are not weak, for
they remain in good condition when the petals
have been liberated. Shown by Mr. H. Elliott,
Hassocks Nurseries, Sussex.

Pelargonium Clorinda. — This is a hybrid
raised by Dr. Bonavia from seeds of P. querci-
folium which had been crossed with some other
variety. Judging from the habit and construc-
tion of the plant, it may be regarded as a hybrid
between P. quercifolium and the zonal leaved

section. It is a thoroughly good decorative
plant, and fragrant. (See supplementary illus-
tration to Gardeners,^ Chronicle April 15th, 1905.)
Shown by Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons.

Narcissus Committee.

Present: Mr. H. B. May (Chairman), and
Messrs. A. Kingsmill, J. T. Bennett-Poe, W.

F. M. Copeland, P. Rudolph Barr, G. H. Engle-
heart (Rev.), W. T. Ware, R. W. Wallace, W.
Goldring, J. D. Pearson, E. A. Bowles, A. M.
Wilson, R. Sydenham, E. Willmott, Jas. Wal-
ker, W. Poupart, C. T. Digby, G. Reuthe, G.
W. Leak, Joseph Jacob (Rev.), John Hoog
(Haarlem, visitor), W .W. Fowler, and C. H.
Curtis (Hon. Sec).

The committee unanimously awarded a Gold
Medal for an exceedingly good exhibit of Nar-
cissus flowers from Miss Willmott, V.M.H.,
Warley, Essex. Miss Willmott has shown
many similar exhibits in previous seasons, and
on one or several occasions has obtained the
Society's Gold Medal, but it was the general
opinion that in the quality of the varieties shown
and in the condition of the flowers this recent
exhibit excelled the others. Some of the most
beautiful and effective varieties included those
following: — Warley Scarlet, Lemon Queen,
Glory of Leiden, Oriflamme, Firefly (extra fine).
Mars, Firebrand, Cernuus plenus. Great War-
ley, Will Scarlett, Moonray, Lucifer, Occident,
Lilian, Seabird, Bianca (having a white
Eucharis-like perianth, and clear yellow cup),
Watchfire, Weardale Perfection, Furstia Maria
Gettinger, &c.

Mr. A. M. Wilson, East Keal, Spilsby, Lin-
coln, showed a group of flowers of late Tulips,
remarkable for their large size, and flowers of
select varieties of Narcissus. Some of the
choicest were Cassandra, Juliet, Horace, Almira,
Concord, White Lady, and Eoster, which ob-
tained an Award of Merit. (Silver Gilt Bank-
sian Medal.)

Messrs. Bare ,*t Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, W.C, exhibited a group of
Narcissus and Tulip flowers, which included
Masterpiece (see Awards) and Princess, a charm-
ing variety, white or pale lemon-coloured, with
frilled trumpet (see note on Messrs. Barr's nur-
sery on p. 277.)

Messrs. W. Bill & Sons, King's Road Nur-
sery, Chelsea, exhibited late-flowering Tulips.

Messrs, R. PL Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, e.xhi-
bited a collection of Narcissus flowers and
Tulips, which included a pretty Narcissus named
Princess Ena (see Awards). (Silver Banksian
Medal.) (See p. 277.)

The Hon. Mrl. Chichester, Wexford, was
awarded a Bronze Banksian Medal for a few
good Tulip flowers.

Awards.

Narcissus "Eoster." — An incomparabilis va-
riety certificated at Birmingham on April 25th
(see ante page 271), where the name was printed
" Easter." Shown by Mr. A. M. Wilson.

N. Masterpiece. — A very finely formed flower
of the Parvi Coronati section, also certificated
at Birmingham (see p. 271). Shown by Messrs.
Baer & Sons.

A'. Princess Ena. — This is a trumpet Daffodil,
with long, very slightly fimbriated yellow trum-
pet, and regular, not large perianth of sulphur
white. Shown by Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd.

Tulipa Fosteriana. — This very handsome and
brilliant Tulip was shown by Mr. Van Tuber-
gen, Junr., Haarlem, Holland. The flower is of
large size, brilliant red colour, with yellow base.
The segments are large and rounded at apex.
(First-Class Certificate.)

Tulipa Greigi alba. — This variety also was
shown by Mr. 'Van Tubeegen, Junr. Each seg-
ment of the flowers had margins of white.
(Botanical Certificate.)

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the chair),
Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Secretary), De B.
Crawshay, Harry J. Veitch, H. Little, W. Boxall,
Francis Wellesley, R. G. Thwaites, W. Cobb,
H. G. Morris, F. Sander, F. Menteith Ogilvie,

G. F. Moore. H. A. Tracv. J. Wilson Potter,
F. J, Thorne, T. W. Bond, A. Dye, H. T. Pitt,
J. Charlesworth, H. Ballantine, W. H. White,
W. H. Young, W. A. Bilney, R. Brooman- White,
and Norman C. Cookson.

Leopold de Rothschild, Esq., Gunnersbury
Park, Acton (gr. Mr. G. Reynolds), was awarded

a Silver Gilt Flora Medal for a very fine group of
Vanda teres composed of a large number of plants
massed together eacli about ;i to 3 feet in height,
and bearing numerous spikes of bright rose
flowers. So grown it is one of the finest of
Orchids, and at Gunnersbury Park it is to be
relied on for a great show of bloom annually.

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, secured a Silver Gilt Flora Medal for a fine
group of hybrid Cattleyas, Laelio-Cattleyas,
Odontoglossums, Sec. Remarkably showy were
specimens of Cattleya Empress Frederick, C.
Wm. Murray, Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-Mossiae,
B.-C. Digbyano-Warscewiczii, and the fine pure
white B.-C. Queen Alexandra. Yellow colouring
was given by a batch of Laelio-Cattleya Mercia. and
a very finely-coloured L.-C. G. S. Ball. Bright
rose and purple tints were seen on good varieties
of Laelio-Cattleya Hyeana and L.-C. callistoglossa,
the centre being of Oncidium Marshallianum of a
good type. Odontoglossum crispum included
several spotted forms and home-raised hybrids,
two very dissimilar varieties of O. Othello (crispo-
Harryanum x Adrianae), the one with a very large
cream-white flower blotched with purple, and the
other pale yellow, with claret markings. Of inter-
esting species noted were Masdevallia triaristella,
Cirrhopetalum Cumingii, Coelogyne Parishii, &c.
Of singular hybrids were a cross between Laelia
tenebrosa and Epidendrum prismatocarpum, and
Epi-Laelia Laucheana (L. purpurata X E. atro-
purpurea).

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East
Sheen (gr Mr. W. H. Young), was awarded a
Silver Flora Medal for a nice group of excellently
grown Orchids. The centre was of PhalaDUopsis
Rimestadtiana, Cymbidium Devonianum with
seven spikes, some fine examples of Cypripedium
niveum, and C. bellatulum, a remarkably fine
C. Mastersianum, and the large-flowered C. W. H.
Young (barbatum x Curtisii). Other well-flowered
plants noted were La;lia Boothiana, Zygo-cola.x.
Veitchii, a nice selection of Odontoglossum cris-
pum and other Odontoglossums, a number of good
forms of Cypripedium, &c.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, secured
a Silver Flora Medal for a varied group of good
things, the most remarkable among the several
good Odontoglossums being a very fine blotched
O. crispum of the best type with equally broad
sepals and petals very heavily blotched with purple
— a \ery good and promising variety. The hybrids
included a very finely-coloured Laelio-Cattleya
Henry Greenwood, dark L.-C. bletchleyensis,
L.-C. callistoglossa, &c., and the species
Cattleya intermedia alba, a fine C. Loddigesii,
Dendrobium Bancroftianum, D. Jamesianum,
Bulbopbyllum mandibulare, several Megacliniums,
Cirrhopetalums, &-c. ; Renanthera Imschootiana,
Aerides Micholitzii, the large yellow Oncidium
Marshallianum splendens, and others. A spike of
the very remarkable Vanda suavis Sanderae with
pure white flowers, the spotting instead of being c£
the usual brown tint, being of a light greenish
yellow, probably the first recorded albino ie the
species.

Messrs. James Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham,
were voted a Silver Flora Medal for a very bright
group, prominent in which were excellent examples
of the best, large-flowered type of Miltonia vexil-
laria and Odontoglossum crispum. one variety of
the typical white form having very large and
finely-developed flowers, and several of them being
spotted varieties. In the group were good examples
of most of the Cattleyas of the season, Laelia
Boothiana, L. purpurata, Brasso-Cattleya Digby-
ano-MossiK, Dendrobium Nestor, LElio-Cattleya
Hyeana, L.-C. highburyensis, Cypripedium grande,
C. niveum, Cattleya Mendeli (one form having a
singular parti-coloured lip), Masdevallia Heathii,
cSrc.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, received a
Silver Flora Medal for a group, in the centre of
which was a specimen of Dendrobium Wardianum
with over 100 flowers, other Burmese Dendrobiums
being arranged round it. An efl'ective feature in
the group was made by a very fine selection of
Cattleya Schroderae, including a strong plant of the
pure white variety. Cypripedium niveum, C.
microchilum, C. Grace^e, C. Gowerianium, Burkin-
shaw's variety, Cattleya intermedia alba, and
others were also remarked.

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr.
W. H, White), staged a group of rare and finely
flowered species and hybrids, for which a Silver
Banksian Medal was awarded. The group in-
cluded the original plant of Dendrobium formoso-
Lowii, still in fine health and well bloomed; a nice

-286

THE GARDENERS CHRONIUL.E..

[Mav 5, 1906.

specimen of D. Dalhou-nobile, Brasso-Cattleya
nivalis (with a good head of white fragrant flowers),
B.-C.Digbyano-Schroderae, Masdevallia Rushtoni,
the fine M. ignea, Burford variety, and the
singular Cattleya intermedia Aquiii (with peloric
■flowers showing the colouring of the lip on the
petals), &c.

The Honourable Walter Rothschild, M.P.,
Tring Park (gr. Mr. Arthur Dye), was awarded a
Silver Banksian Medal for an interesting collec-
tion of Masdevallias, many of them with small
jnsect-like flowers. Among them were M. Chester-
itoni with purple-spotted perianth and large singu-
larly constructed whitish labellum, veined with
orange: M. Curlei, M. Reichenbachiana, M.bella,
M. Schlimii, M. triangularis, M. Simula, M.
yBrieniana, M. Wendlandi, M. leontoglossa, M.
Burfordiensis. M. xantho corys, M. demissa, and
a curious Brazilian species nearest to M. infracta
purpurea in colour, and several hybrids. Mr.
Rothschild also showed good Laelio-Cattleya
Hyeana with six flowers, L.-C Lucia with a
long spike of orange-tinted blooms, and HouUetia
odoratissima.

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
i(gr. Mr. Hopkins), was voted a Silver Banksian
Medal and Cultural Commendation for a pretty
little group of splendidly grown good varieties of
Cypripedium bellatulum, C. niveum, C. concolor,
and some hybrids, several of the plants in the
group also gaining Diplomas in the class for special
Orchids of the day.

De B. Crawehay, Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks
'fgr. Mr. Stables), secured a Silver Banksian Medal
for a small group of superb varieties of Odonto-
glossum crispum, all grown to the highest state of
perfection. His beautiful large-flowered O. cris-
pum Venus again secured the First Diploma as it
has withstood the test of two competitions, White
Empress, scarcely less beautiful, coming second.
Other fine forms were O. c. Mrs. de Barri Craw-
shay (a charming flower), O. c. Lady Buchan, O.
luteo-purpureum Mossi, and O. Coradinei Craw-
shayanum.

Messrs. Stanley & Co., Southgate, showed a
group of Cattleya Mossiae, Odontoglossum crispum,
O. Adrianae, O. Pescatorei, &c.

The Honourable Evelyn Cecil (gr. Mr. Cox)
showed Lissochilus Krebsii from Rhodesia.

Sydney Jackson, Esq., Bexley (gr. Mr. Boyd),
sent Odontoglossum crispum magnificum, a fine
'white flower.

Baron Sir H. Schroeder, The Dell, Egham (gr.
Mr, Ballantine), showed some very finely-grown
•Odontoglossums, including the beautiful O. crispo-
Harryanum "Duchess of York," the distinct O.
Coradinei mirabile, a very large and heavily
flowered plant of O. triumphans, "The Dell
variety " (Cultural Commendation), &c.

H. S. GooDSON, Esq. Fairlawn, Putney (gr. Mr.
G. Day), sent Cymbidium, Lowio-eburneum
giganteum, Phaius Norman, " Goodson's var-
iety " (a very fine form), and Cattleya Schroderje
" Lily Blanche."

C. L. N. Ingram, Esq., Elstead House, Godal-
ming (gr. Mr. T. W. Bond), showed Cattleya
Unique (Mendeli x Schroderse).

F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery,
Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), showed Cymbidium
insigne, a variety near to that previously shown as
C. Schroderianum and C. Wilsoniand like a dwarf,
light-coloured, indistinctly marked C. giganteum.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. ]. Chapman), showed Odontoglossum
crispum Eustace, a richly-coloured flower near to
to O. c. Ashworthianum and O. c. Franz Masereel,
and which secured a First Diploma as a spotted
crispum,

AWARDS.
First-Class Certificates.

Arachnanthc annamensis, from the Royal Bo-
tanic Gardens, Glasnevin, Dublin. A beautiful
and large-flowered species introduced from Annam
by Messrs. Sander & Son, and flowered last year
by F. W. Moore, Esq., at Glasnevin, who now
again exhibited it. The nearly equal sepals and
petals are yellow, evenly barred and blotched with
red-brown, the singularly formed labellum whitish
marked with purple.

Awards of Merit.
•ChysisSedciii X (Limminghii x bractescens), from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H.
White). A pretty hybrid raised some years ago by
Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons. Flowers white, tipped
with rose, wax-like in substance.

Masdevallia ignea. "Burford variety," from Sir
Trevor Lawrence. Bart. A very large and

handsome variety with yellowish flowers, tinged
with salmon red.

Cypripedium Rothschildiamim, " Norihaio variety,"
from J. B. Joel, Esq., Northaw, Potter's Bar. A
very large variety, oi which the fine specimen has
been previously shown.

Cymbidium Colmana y. (eburneo - Lowianum x
eburneum Dayanura), from Jeremiah Colman,
Esq.. Gatton Park (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound). A
reversion towards C, eburneum. Flowers ivory
white, with faint purple markings. In form nearest
to C. eburneo- Lowianum.

Botanical Certificate.
Epideiidrum odoratissimum, from Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart. Inflorescence branched. Flowers
creamy white, with a few purple markings on the lip.

Diploma Awards.

Odontoglossum crispum (typical). First Dip-
loma..— O. crispum Venus. Second Diploma. —
White Empress. Both from De B. Crawshay,
Esq.

Odontoglossum crispum (spotted). First Dip-
loma.— Eustace, from Norman C. Cookson, Esq.
Second Diploma. — Raymond Crawshay, from De B.
Crawshay, Esq.

O. luteo-purpureum. First Diploma. — " Mos-
sii." from De B. Crawshay, Esq. Second Diploma.
— " Sceptrum." The Dell variety, from Baron
Schroeder.

Cypripedium bellatulum. First Diploma. —
" Exhims variety," from J. Forster Alcock, Esq..
Exhims, Berkhamstead. A grand form with very
dark purple blotches and tinge on sepals. Second
Diploma. — Wellesleyanum. from Francis Wel-
lesley, Esq.

Cypripedium niveum. First Diploma.--"The
Premier." a very fine flower, from Francis
Wellesley, Esq. Second Diploma. — "Purity,"
from Jeremiah Colman. Esq.

Cypripedium concolor. Second Diploma. —
" Sanderae Westfield variety." from Francis
Wellesley, Esq.

HORTICULTURAL CLUB.

"PARASITISM."
M.\y 1. — After the usual monthly dinner of
this club, held at the Hotel \Yindsor on the
above date, under the presidency of Sir John
Llewkllyn, Bart., and with a very full attend-
ance A members and guests, Professor J. B.
Farmer, M.A., F.R.S., gave a most interest:'""
address on " Parasitism " in especial connec-
tion with the plant world, humorously opening
his remark^ with the reminder that we are all
of us parasites on plants in the sense that we
depend directly or indirectly entirely upon them
for our existence. He commenced by dividing
plant parasites into two categories, saprophytes,
which feed upon vegetable matter already dead,
and parasites proper, which select living hosts
whom they rob in a more or less drastic and
unconscionable fashion. The familiar examples
of the Dodder and the Mistletoe were quoted
here, the former being much more unscrupulous
than the latter, which appears to occupy a sort
of intermediate position by forming a working
foliage of its own, and not depending entirely
on the host, as is the Dodder. A peculiar
point in this connection was that the mote
thorough the parasitic nature, the more degene-
rate it became, tending at last to do nothing
more than reproduce itself, i.e., to become
flowers and nothing else. Rafflesia Arnoldi,
with huge earth-borne flowers a yard across, has
apparently reached the climax in this respect,
as it has no leaves at all, and even the roots
are mere feeders and suckers upon the roots of
surrounding vegetation. Despite the two dis-
tinct categories aforesaid, saprophytes and para-
sites proper, there is, of course, as always oc-
curs in nature, an intermediate grade, and in
this we find instanc3s where the organism
usually destined to prey on dead matter steps,
a^ it were, over the line and attacks the living
in an insidious fashion by previously poisoning
the adjacent tissues and thus killing them first
and feeding on them afterwards, so, as it wer^,
to save its harmless saprophytic character under
false pretences. Professor Farmer then dealt
with that aspect of parasitism which involves
a benefit to both the parasite and the host, as
we see exemjjlified in the bacteria of the sojl
which induce the growth of nodules on the roots
of many leguminous plants and in some occult
way introduce from the nitrogen in the air a
considerable addition of nutritious nitrates to

the soily to the benefit of the farmer as welU
as the host and parasite. The next thing con--
sidered. was, what was the inducing cause ut
parasitism? And in this'oonnection the attrac--
tive power of sugar and malic acid was an v.u--
doubted factor, parasitic plants, like non-para--
sitic one.s, having the fatuity of discover- -
ing and following up the tirack of what, they
like; thus in the fertilisation, of Ferns it is the
presence of malic acid in the archegoniura .
which determines the course- of the swimming
antherozoids towards it, and it is the same,
powerful attraction which has been inherited by
Howering plants, and determines the course of.
the pollen grain contents to the ovary. It is due
to this that, pollen grains germinate on gelatine.
The various mists which infect Wheat and other
cereals- were then alluded to, and the immunity."
of some varieties and susceptibility to infection-
of others, it was suggested, might both be due-
to differences of a subtly chemical character,,
attractive or unattractive, as the:- case might be,-,
since il had been shown by experiment that
sugar might attract or repel according to the*
greater or less amount present. The curiously
intricate life History of some of this class, in-
volving tvi'o different alternate HostSi such' as-
the Barberry and Wheat, was entered into, as
also' was the destructive effect of some of the'
larger fungi cm- trees, especially Conifers. In the-
subsequent di-scussion, Sir George Watt gave
some most interesting particulars respecting the-
parasites incidental to the Indian Tea planta-
tion, and Colonel Prain, the new Director of'
Kew Gardens, followed with some- appreciative'
remarks on the value of Professor- Farmer's
observations.

BECKENFAlVr HORTICULTURAL.

March 30, — The members of this society met*
for the last time this session, on the above date, tO'
hear Mr. A-- Dean, V.M.H-, lecture on>" Potatos."
Mr. R- Murray-Hyslop, B.U.D.C, presided. Mr.
Dean's lecture was certainly one of tile most useful'
ever given before-the members, andwiil'long be re-
membered by them. A dozen of tlie'besfvarieties
of Potatos recommended included (early) Duke of
York, May Queen ; (second early) Snowdrop. Sir
J. Llewellyn, Windsor Castle, British Queen;
(main crop) Up to Date, Factor, Duchess of Corn-
wall, Dalraeny Beauty, Pfeckover.and.Superlative.
R.W.F.

LINNEAN SOCIETY OF LONDON.

April 5. — Dr. A. Smith Woodward. F.R.S.,
Vice-President, in the chair.

Mr. Clement Reid, F.r^-S-, exhibited' nearly 50
photographs, entitled "Some Plants new to the
Preglacial Flora of Great Britain," He explained
that these were derived from material' procured at.
Pakefield, near Lowestoft- On a former occasion
(April 21, 1904) he had shown a series of drawings
from the fruits obtained by breaking ap the matrix,
and selecting the liberated specimens ; but this
process was unsatisfactory, and he had, there-
fore, resorted to photography. The remains were
black, and therefore troublesome to- photograph,
but the specimens themselves could not long be-
preserved, as an efflorescence occurred, and they
fell to pieces, but experiments were now being,
conducted with a view of permeating the fruits,
with paraffin, and so ensuring their preservation.

Mr. Spencer Moore, F.L.S. , contributed a Paper,
"A Second Contribution to the Flora of Africa :
Rubiaceae, and Compositas Part II."'

The second paper was by Mr- E. J. Schwartz,
F.L.S.. on " The Structure of the Stem and Leaf
of N'lvtsi-^ floribunda, R. Br.," which was illus-
trated by lantera-slides.

'i ne last paper was by Mr. B. Hayata, com-
municated by Dr. Maxwell T.' Masters, F.R.S.,,
F.L-S-, " On Taiwanites, a newgenusof Conifera;-
from the Island of Formosa,"

Dr- Masters considers the genus a valid one,
judging from a small scrap which he had received
from the author, who believed his new genus to-
be intermediate between Cry ptomeria and C'unning-
hamia ; Dr, Masters pointed out that it combined'
the foliage of Athrotaxis with the cone of Tsuga-
and that in any case it is a most interesting genus.

DUTCH HORTICULTURAL AND
BOTANICAL.

April 11. — At a meeting held on this date,,
certificates of merit -were awarded to Den-
drobium Wardianum, varietv Foresta, sent by
Mr. M. C. Macke,, Baarn (gr. Mr. Th. Hen-,

May 5, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

287:

driksen). The flowers are particularly large in
size, fine in form, and beautifully coloured ;
and Odontoglossum Rossi albens, sent by Mr.
C. J. KiKKEKT, Haarlem. The flowers are pure
white, with brown bands on the sepals.

BRITISH GARDENERS' ASSOCIATION.

Apkil 12. — A meeting of the Altnncham
Branch (Cheshire) was held on the above date.
Mr. Calderbank (head gardener to Mr. Cro;;-
field, member of Parliament for the district)
presided, and an address was delivered by Mr.
R. Hooper Pearson, who represented the
London Executive Council. After speaking of
the need there exists for such an institution as
the B.G.A., and stating that its membership
continued to increase — the number at present
being nearly 900 — Mr. Pearson explained the
Council's views in regard to the policy the
Association should pursue in the near future.
He referred particularly to the objects of the
Association as printed in the rules which wiU
be submitted for the approval of the members
at the general meeting to be held on May 30,
declaring that they wore, in the opinion of the
executive, of such a nr.ture that no well-wisher
of gardeners or gardening need hesitate to
support them. They were perfectly free from
the taint of coercion, but they expressed the de-
sire all gardeners should have to co-operate in
assisting each other to uplift their profession.

Particular emphasis was al.so laid upon the
"Recommendations" issued with the rules, and
the speaker asked members to study the spirit
expressed in them and be guided by that spirit
in their dealings with the matters discussed.
Several other speeches were made and questions
asked and answered, the meeting showing every
confidence in the Executive Council.

BRUSSELS HORTICULTURAL.

April 22. — A meeting of the joint societies was
held on the above date in the State Botanic Gar-
den. Twenty-two members of the Jury were
present.

M. VuvLSTEKE exhibited two remarkable Odonto-
glossums, namely, O. crispum Princesse Elisabeth
and O. ardentissimura " 1' Esp^rance," which
obtained a diploma.

M. De Laet, Contich, exhibited 30 blooms of
Phyllocactus in 30 varieties.

M. F. Lambeau showed some remarkable Cat-
tleyas. Odontoglossums, and Anthuriums, also six
splendid plants of Hjemanthus, viz., H. amabilis
and H. Eetveldeanus var. Queen Victoria.

M. Stepman showed three hybrid Lilacs, named
respectively President Lambeau, Mrs. Fl. Stepman,
and M. L. Mathieu, seedlings from across between
Lilac " Dr. Lindley " x " Mdlle. Marie Legray."

From the Botanic Garden were shown fi\e
novelties : Stelis Binoti. Stelis Smaragdina variety
longisepala. Cyathea canaliculata var. Congi,
Ficus Dryepondtiana, Crinum Congolense, and
Begonia Poggei.

M. De Brevre had 12 splendid plants of
Primula obconica and a Laelio-Cattleya Lawrence-
ana var. superba with 60 flowers.

M. Ch. Mees showed 30 plants of Chrysanthe-
mum Madame Mees-Lafont, each in a small pot
(4 inches), and a single large bloom. These Easter
Chrysanthemums were just as good as those shown
in the winter.

M. Hye showed some wonderful Miltonia and
Miltoniopsis, and M. Draps-Dom some good Vanda
tricolor in varieties.

M. De Meuve had a Cereus serpentina grafted
on a high Cereus and full of flowers.

The next meeting will be on May 20. L.G.

MANCHESTER & NORTH OF ENGLAND
ORCHID.

April 26. — J. Leemaxn, Esq., Heaton Mersey
(gr. Mr. Smith), obtained a First Class Certificate
for Laelio-Cattleya x Fred Boyle, variety Ker-
chovjE, This is a delightful plant, being the
result of crossing La?lia anceps variety alba with
Cattleya Trianse variety alba ; it is an albino of
very great merit and fine character.

E. RoGERSON, Esq., West Didsbury (gr. Mr.
Price), obtained an Award of Merit for Cypri-
pedium x Byrkleyana " Oakdene variety/' a
good cross between C. viUosum x C, bellatulum.

'W. Thompson. Esq., Stone (gr. Mr. Stevens),
obtained an Award of Merit for Odontoglossum
X Bleuanum variety Stevensii, a pretty hybrid be-

tween Odontoglossum Roezlii album x O. vexil-
larium variety Leopoldi.

S. Gratrix, Esq., Whalley Range (gr. Mr.
Cypher), exhibited a good Odontoglossum crispum
called 'Westpoinlense, a richly coloured and well
shaped variety. (Award of Merit.)

J. BoTHAMLEY, Esq., Longsight, exhibited two
nice forms of Dendrobium nobile. (Vote of
thanks.)

O. O. 'Wrigley, Esq., Bury (gr. Mr. Rogers),
exhibited a tri labellate variety of Odontoglossum
crispum.

Messrs. J. Cypher & Sons, J. Cowan & Co.,
Mr. S. Allen, and J 'W. Moore, Ltd., were
awarded votes of thanks for miscellaneous
exhibits. P. W.

IVIJLI^ICETS.

NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM.

April 30.— The adjourned annual general meet-
ing of this society was held on this date at Carr's
Restaurant, Strand, for the purpose of again con-
sidering the appointment of a general secretary.
About 40 members were present, the chair being
occupied by the President. C. E. Shea, Esq.,
V.M.H. Before the special business of the meet-'
ing was taken a vote of sympathy was passed with
the widow and relatives of the late Mr. Kenyon,
at one time a committeeman of the society. The
sub-committee appointed for the purpose of con-
sidering the applications for the post of general
secretary to the society announced its recom-
mendation in the candidature of Mr. Richard
Alfred Witty, a member of the Incorporated
Society of Chartered Accountants. No alternative
name having been proposed in opposition to that of
Mr. Witty 's, a vote was taken, with the result
that this gentleman was unanimously elected.

It was considered by the meeting that some
means should be taken to perpetuate the name of
the late valued secretary. Mr. Richard Dean and
it was resolved that the committee be empowered
to take steps to establish a fund for that purpose.
The unanimous wish of the meeting was that the
memorial should take the form of a medal, to be
given from time to time, not necessarily each year,
when some object of special interest at the society's
shows be considered worthy of this distinction.
Mr. Gerald Dean, who has successfully carried on
the office of secretary since his father's decease,
and the Misses Dean, were warmly thanked for
their services, and it was decided to present Mr.
Dean with a silver medal as a souvenir and token
of esteem from the society. The annual outing
was announced to take place on July 23, Deepdene
being the place to be visited.

The Earl of Mansfield. — The death of this
nobleman, after a very short illness, is announced.
In horticultural and arboricultural i i cles the late
Earl was well known and highly esteemed. In
Perthshire his plantation of the Douglas Fir is the
most remarkable in the country, and has often been
the subject of comment in these pages. Nearer
London his woods at Kenwood, near Highgate,
are also well known. It is a singular and melan-
choly circumstance that two of those who took a
prominent part in the dinner of the Gardeners'
Orphan Fund last year should have been taken
from us. Lord Mansfield presided on that oc-
casion and charmed those with whom he came
in contact by his genial courtesy. A few months
after, it will be remembered, Mr. David Laird
died under painfully sudden circumstances.

R. E. Berkeley. — On April 22, Rose Emerica
Berkeley, of Crane Hall. Ipswich, youngest
daughter of the late Revd. .M.J. Berkeley, F.R.S.,
of Sibbertoft, Northamptonshire.

TRADE NOTIGFS.

Mr. W. Duncan Tucker, horticultural builder, of Tot-
tenham, has forin.ed his business into a private limited
liability company, in order more conveniently to work the
business in conjunction with his two sons. The style of the
iirm will be in future. " Wm. Duncan Tucker and Sons,
Limited," the management remaining the same as before.

Frederick Carter and Sons, Limited. — This company
has been registered with a capital of £10,000 in ^1 shares.
Object : to take over (1) the business of seedsmen, nursery-
men, florists, &c.. heretofore carried on at Horsell and
Woking, as Frederick Carter and Sons, and (2) the business
of a nurseryman, seedsman, and florist carried on at Woking
as Henry Shoesmith. No initial public issue. Registered
office, Floral Hall, Commercial Road, Woking, Surrey.

CO VENT GARDEN, May 2.

We cannot accept any responsibility tor the subjoined
reports. They are turnished to us regularly every
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
must be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of cir
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionaUy several times
in one day-^Eo.]

Cut Flowers. &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

s.d. s.dj

Anemones (pink)

Narcissus, Em-

doz. bunches...

16-30

peror, per doz.

— coronaria varie-

bunches

2 0-30

ties

16-30

— Bicolor

2 0-30

Azalea indica., per

— Incomparabilis

doz. bunches

3 0-50

varieties

2 0-40

Azalea mollis, doz.

— Ornatus

10-20

bunches

60-9 0

— Sir Watkin,per

Calla «thiopica,per

doz. bunches...

2 0-30

dozen

2 0-40

Odontoglossum

Carnations, per

crispum, per

dozen blooms,

dozen blooms

2 0-2 6-

best American

— grande, per

various

2 0-4 0

dozen blooms

40-50

— smaller do. ...

10-26

Ornithogalum (Star

— Malmaisons ...

9 0-12 0

of Bethlehem)

Cattleyas, per doz.

per doz. bchs.

16-20

blooms

10 0-15 0

Pancratiums, doz.

3 0-40

Dendrobium War-

Pelargoniums,

dianum and no-

show, doz. bun.

3 0-50

bile, per doz.

— Zonal, double

blooms

20-3 0

scarlet

5 0- 6 0

Eucharis grandi-

Primula, double

flora, per doz.

white, per doz.

blooms

30-4 0

bunches

5 0-60

Gardenias, per doz.

Ranunculus, doz.

blooms

16-20

bunches

6 0-80

Gladiolus, Blush-

Roses, 12 blooms,

ing Bride, per

Niphetos

20-30

dozen bunches

9 0-12 0

— Bridesmaid ...

2 0-40

Gypsophila eie-

~ Kai serin A.

gans, per doz.

Victoria

20-40

bunches

3 0-40

— Caroline Tes-

Hyacinth, doz. bun.
Ins germanica, per

2 0-10

tout

3 0-50

— C. Mermet ...

2 0-40

bunch

0 9-10

— General Jacque-

— Spanish, per

minot

10-2 0.

doz. bunches...

5 0-80

— Liberty

2 0-6 0.

Lilac, per bunch...

2 0-30

— Mad. Carnot...

2 6- 3 0-

Lilium auratuni ...

2 6-30

— Mad. Chatenay

3 0-60

— candidum, per

— Mrs. J. Laing

3 0-50

bunch

16-20

Stephanotis, per

— lancif olium,

dozen trusses

4 0-6 0.

rubrum and

Stocks (double

album

2 0-30

white) per doz.

— longifiorum ...

3 0-40

bunches

2 0-30

Lily of the Valley,

Sweet Peas, per

per dozen
bunches

doz. bunches ..

3 0-50

60-9 0

Tuberoses, per dz.

— extra quality ...

9 0-12 0

blooms

0 4-06

Marguerites, white,

Tulips, per dozen

per dozen

bunches

4 0-80

bunches

2 0-30

— special quality

12 0-18 0

— yellow, dozen
bunches

Violets, 12 bunches

2 0-30

2 0-30

— special qual....

2 0-30

Mignonette, dozen

— Parma, French,

bunches

2 0-30

large bunches

3 0-5 0^

Cut Foliage,

&c. : Aver

age Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

s.d. s.d'.

Asparagus plu-

Fern, French, doz.

mosus, long

bunches

3 0-40

trails, per doz.

6 0-12 0

Galax leaves, per

— — medium,

doz. bunches...

16-20

bunch ...

16-20

Hardy foliage

— —short sprays

(various), per

per bunch...

0(h-0 9

dozen buncbes

2 6-40

— Sprengeri

0 6-10

Ivy-leaves, bronze

16-20

Adiantum cunea-

— long trails per

tum, doz. bun.

4 0-60

bundle

10-20

Berberis, per

— short green.

bunch

2 6-30

doz. bunches...

2 0-30

Croton leaves, per

Moss, per gross ...

5 0-60

bunch

10-16

Myrtle, per dozen
bunches

Cycas leaves, each

16-20

3 0-60

Fern, English, p.

Smilax, per dozen

dozen bunches

20-30

trails ... ^ ...

3 0-60

Plants in Pots

&c. : Ave

rage Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

s,d. s.d.

Acacia armata, per

Clematis, per doz.

8 0-90

dozen

9 0-18 0

— in flower

18 0-24 U

Ampelopsis Veii-

Crotons, per dozen

12 0-3U 0-

chii.per dozen

6 0-80

Cocos Weddelli-

Aralia Sieboldi,

ana, per dozen

9 0-18 0

per dozen

4 0-60

Cyclamen, per doz.

6 0-12 0

— larger

12 0-15 0

Cyperus alternifo-

Araucaria escelsa,

lius, dozen

4 0-50

per dozen

1^0-30 0

— laxus, per doz

4 0-50

Aspidistras, green,

Deutzias, per doz.

6 0-90

per dozen

18 (K30 0

Dracaenas, per doz.

9 0-24 0

— variegated, per

Erica, Cavendishi,

dozen

24 0-36 0

per dozen

24 0-26 0

Asparagus plumo-

— candidissima...

18 0-24 0

sus nanus, doz.

9 0-12 0

— persoluta

24 0-30 0

— Sprengeri, doz.

9 0-10 0

— ventricosa

— ten uissimus

magnifica

24 0^2 0

per dozen

8 0-10 0

— Wilmoreana ...

12 0-18 0

Azaleas, per doz...

18 0-30 0

Euonymus, per

Boronia megas-

doz

4 0-90

tigma, per doz

18 0-24 0

Ferns, in thumbs,

— heterophylla ...

18 0-30 0

per loo

7 0-10 0

Calceolarias (Her-

— in48's,perdoz.

4 0-10 0

baceous), p. dz.

5 0-80

— in32's,perdoz.

10 0-18 0

Callas, per dozen ..

5 0-80

Ficus elastica,p.dz.

9 0-18 0

Cinerarias, per dz.

4 0-60

. — repens, perdoz.

5 0-80

'288

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 5, 190G.

Plants in Pots, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices (Contd.)

s.d. s.d
8 0-12 0

5 0-90

6 0-80

9 0-24 0
12 0-24 0

Fuchsias, per doz.
•Genistas, per doz.
JHeliotrope, per dz.
.HydrangeaHorlen-
sia, per dozen

— Thos. Hogg —
iKentia Belmore-

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0

— Forster iana,
per dozen ... 12 0-21 0

Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 12 0-18 0
'X^ilium Icngiflorum,

per dozen ... 15 0-24 0
— lancifolium,

per dozen ... 18 0-24 0
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen ... 18 0-30 0
Marguerites, white,

per dozen ... 6 0-12 0
Mignonette, per

dozen 4 0-60

s.d. s.d.-

5 0-80
9 0-15 0
40-60

18 0-30 0
12 0-18 0

Privet, golden, per

dozen 5 0-12 0

Pelargoniums
(Zonals), per
dozen 5 0-80

— Ivy-leaved, per
dozen

— show

Rhodanthe, per dz.
Rhododendrons,

per doz.

Roses, per dozen .. '.

Sasifraga pyrami-

dalis, per doz. 13 0-18 0

Selaginella, dozen 4 0-60

Spiraea japonica, '

per dozen ... 5 0-10 0

Stocks (Inter-
mediate), per
dozen 5 0-60

Verbena, MissWill-

mott, per doz.. 8 0-10 0

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d. s.d. s.d.

9 G-14 0

Apples: — South
Australian :

— Adams' Pear-
main, per case

— Jonathans, per

case 13 0-17 6

— Monro's Fav-
ourite, per case 12 0-15 0

^ N e w York

Pippins, p. case 12 0-15 0
~- Ry mers, per

case 10 0-12 6

— Wellingtons, p.

case 12 6-15 0

Nova Scotians,
per barrel ;

— Nonpareils ... 22 0-25 0

— Ribston Pippin 19 0 —

— Blenheim Pip-
pin 18 6-21 0

— King of Tonip-

kin's County ... 25 0 —
Canadian, per
barrel :

— New York Im-
perials 25 0-28 0

• Tasmanian :
Ribston Pip-
pin, per case... IG 0 —
Tasmanian
case :

— French Crabs.. 11 6-13 0

— Alfrestons ... 11 6-13 0

— Sc. Pearmains 11 6-14 6
~ Prince Alfreds 12 0-13 0

— N.Y. Pippins- 11 6-15 0
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extraquality...

— Giants, per
bunch ,

— Jamaica

— Loose, per dz
Cranberries, case... 13 0-14 0
Dates, Tunis, per

box

Figs, per dozen ...

Vegetables

7 0-86
5 6-66

8 6-10 0

11 0-13 0
4 6-60

0 8-13

4 0
2 0-

6 0

2 0-40
2 0-60

4 0-80
15 0-20 0

Grapes (English),
Black Hambro,
per lb

— Muscat, per lb.

— (Cape), small
cases

— large cases ...
Lemons :

— Messina, case 9 0-15 0

— Naples, p. case 40 0 —
Lychees, per box... 0 10- 1 0
Melons, each ... 13-30
Nectarines, English 12 0-24 0
Nuts, Cobnuts, per

doz. lb 8 0 —

— Brazils, new,

per cwt. ... 42 0-48 0

— Spanish, per

bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 6 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag ... 18 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt 35 0 —

— Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case

— Murcia

— Navel

— Jaffa

— Jamaica

— Blood

Peaches (English),

per dozen
Pears (Cape), p. box

— Cali f o rnian,
box

— stewing varie-
ties,per J bush.

— stewmg, crate 10 6 —
Pineapples, each... 3 0-46
Plums (Cape), per

box 10 0 —

Strawberries, p. lb. 2 0-30

— Second quality 10-16

15 0-36 0
18 0-22 0
11 6-14 6
13 6-15 0
10 6-11 0
9 6-11 6

8 0-21 0
3 0-40

8 6-96

2 6-30

s.d. s.d,
Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

— Ground,Abush.
A sparagus, per

bundle : —
^- Toulouse

— Montauban ...

— Barcelona

— Dijon

— Giants

— Spanish

— Sprue

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, per pkt,

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb 0 10- 1 0

— Channel Island 0 10 —
Beetroot, bushel ... 0 9-13
Broccoli, sprout-
ing, per bushel

— per doz.
Cabbages, Spring,

per dozen

— red, per bushel
Carrots, French pad 3 0

— per bag, un-
washed

— bag, washed ...

— new, per dozen
bunches

Cauliflowers, per
tally

Ghicory, per lb, ..

■Chow Chow, p. dz.

■Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen 0 10- 1 3

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles ... 10 0-14 0

Leeks, 12 bundles 16-30

lettuces, Cos, p.dz. 4 0-06

— French, perdz

Average Wholesale Prices.

2 0 —
13-16

2 0 —

3 3-36
0 7-08
0 8-0 10

4 0-96
0 7-13
0 5 —
0 6 —
0 6 —

2 6-30
10 —

16-19
10-20

10-16
2 0 —

13-16

2 0- 2 G

3 0-70

8 0-10 0
0 3 —
16-20
2 6-30

s.d. s.d.
2 0-50

4 0-60

1 0

1 2

10-16
3 6-50

3 6-40
2 3 —

16-20
10-16
2 0-23
5 0

Marrows, per doz.

Mint, per dozen ...

M ushrooms(house)

per lb

— Buttons, perlb.
Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun.

Onions (English),

bag

— Valencia, case. 10 0

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, J bag..

— Spring, dozen
bunches

Parsley, i2bunches
Parsnips, per bag...
Peas (French flats)

— English, per lb. 0 10- 1 0

— Channellsl'nds 0 6-10
Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt.... 11 0-14 0

— Channel Island
Kidneys ... 0 4-0 41

— Algerian, cwt. 22 0 — "

— ., barrel 22 0 —
Rhubarb, per doz.

bundles
Spring greens, per

bushel

Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Sea Kale, p. punnet
Tomatos : —

— Foreign, bundle
of 4 boxes

— English, per lb.
Turnips, per doz.

bunches

— bags

— new, per dozen
bunches

Turnip Tops, bush.
Watercress, per
doz. bunches ..

2 6 —

2 0-26

4 0
1 Q

12 0-20 0
0 9-0 10

1 0-
1 0

8 0-
1 0-

1 6

9 0

1 e

0 4 —

10-19

POTATOS.

Blacklands, 70s. to 75s. ; Lincolns, 70s. to 80s. ; Scotch
■Greysoils, 60s. to 65s ; Dunbars, 90s. to95s. per ton. Canary
New Potatos, 12s. to 14s. per cwt.—John Bath, 32 and 34,
Wellington Street, Covent Garden.

Remarks. — Supplies of Oranges are extremely short,
and the fruit arriving is very wasteful. Good samples
realise high prices. Lemons are dearer; the first con-
signment from Naples for the season arrived during
the present week, and sold at 40s. per case. A ship-
ment of 29,000 bo-\cs of Tasmanian and Australian
Apples is to be offered for sale during this week, also
a few good samples of Australian Pears. Strawberries
are still plentiful, but owing to the very cold weather
there is little demand, and prices have fallen as low
as 25, 6d. per lb. Well-coloured Bananas are a scarcity,
owing to the very cold weather. Asparagus is dearer ;
supplies of Paris Green have finished. A very large
consignment of Teneriffe Potatos arrived this week.
Foreign Tomatos are very dear, some good samples
making as much as i8s. to 20s. per bundle of cases.
Trade generally is very quiet. — £. H. Bides, Coven/
Garden, Wednesday, May 2.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

Trade has improved a little, especially in plants fur
wludow-bo.xes, etc. Ordinary bed ding plants are also
commencing to sell freely, and, with a few days' mild
weather, trade in these plants would be in full swing.
Most growers like to market their bedding plants early,
in order to make room for successional crops, but the
continued frosty nights have operated against their
sale this season, and even hardy flower roots have not
sold so well as usual. Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, in
beautifully-flowered plants suitable for decorations, arc
seen, also smaller plants adapted for window-bo.\ work.
The varieties Madame Crousse, G.ililee and Souvenir
de Chas. Turner still take the lead, but Baden-Powell
is also seen. Zonals in all the ordinary market sorts
and show varieties are also good. Ericas are to be had
in well-flowered plants; E. ventricosa magnifica and
perspicua erecta are remarkably good. K. Cavendishi
is more plentiful. Hydrangea Hortensia in 48 size pots,
with very large single heads of bloom, were making i8s.
per dozen. Marguerites are seen in all sizes, from plants
in 48 size pots, and sold at 6s. per doz. ; finely-flowered
plants of the same size were making 15s. per dozen,
plants in Sin. pots realising 7s. 6d. e-ich. Mignonette,
chiefly autumn-sown plants, is plentiful. Some of the
spring-raised plants are also seen, and these sell more
readily. Intermediate Stocks are still of very good
quality. Verbena Miss Willmott can be had from
several growers. Rhodanthe is plentiful and cheap,
with a poor demand. Nice plants of Fuchsias can be
had, also of Heliotrope. Supplies of Genistas are now
almost finished for the season. Cinerarias continue
plentiful. Lilium longifiorum in pots are good, but
with their exception few Liliums are to be had. Ram-
bler Roses vary very much, both in regard to size and
quality. Some tall, well-flowered plants of Dorothy
' Perkins were making up to 10s. 6d. each. Best quality
plants of Crimson Ramblers were also realising good
prices. Ferns, with fresh growth, are now very good,
and a better trade in them seems to exist. Palms are
well supplied. Many large standard, trained, and pyra-
midal specimens of Sweet Bays are seen, but there is
little demand for them. Fine plants of Pandanus
Veitchi, with the terminal leaves quite white, were
noticed this morning. These find a ready sale for
decorations, but they are of no further use for growing
as specimen plants.

Cut Flowers.
There is very little variation either in the amount of
supplies or in business done. Good Roses are still over-
plentiful, while flowers of ordinary quality realise very
low prices. Carnations are also over-plentiful, some
good Souvenir de la Malmaisons are seen. Spanish
Irises in several shades of colour, including soft blue-
mauve tints, are appreciated most. Lilium longi-
fiorum has been over-plentiful, and I am informed that
during the end of last week they were disposed of for
very low figures. Other varieties of Lilies can also he
had in plenty. Callas are abundant and cheap. Sup-
plies of Violets are somewhat short. In Orchids I
noticed a fine lot of Odontoglossum crispum. .Dendro-
biums are plentiful, and good spikes of Cymbidium
Lowianum are also seen. Narcissus of the Poeticus type
are abundant, also others of the Incomparabilis section,
but the season of the Ajax varieties is nearly over.
Tulips from the open ground have been injured by
frost at nights. Gladiolus Blushing Bride is very
pretty. Sweet Peas are of good quality. It is difficult
to give approximate prices just now, for demands vary
very much, and, further, the supplies may vary greatly
in the course of a few days, for growers are now
beginning to clear their houses for the Tomato crops,
etc. — A. H., Covent Garden, Wednesday, May 2.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Apples: G. Bnir.icr. London Pippin. — B. St.
John Ackers. The two Apples of the culinary
variety are Dumelow's Seedling Wellington,
one of the very best cooking Apples we have.
The fruits may be used from November until
May. The dessert fruit is of the variety Man-
nington's Pearmain, one of the best late dessert
Apples in use from December onwards, but best
in January and February, remaining good until
March.

Books: C.B.U. Rubbcy Cultivation in West Africa
(1901). by J. H. Holland, Royal Gardens, Kew.
The Cultivation and Preparation of Para Puhbcr
(1904). by W. H. Johnson. Published by Crosby,
Lockwood and Son, London, and obtainable
on application to our publisher.

Cucumbers Shrivelling : /. C. McP. Look to
the roots, and tell us the conditions under which
the plants have been growing, and then perhaps
we may be able to help you.

Grapes : W. P. Your grapes are attacked with
the spot disease. See our last issue, p. 272.

Irises: B.L. Iris Sindjarensis, which belongs to
the Juno section of Irises, should reach the
flowering stage in the third or fourth year
from the seedlings appearing. .4s your seed-
lings have not flowered as yet, we advise
lifting them and giving them a complete
rest out of the ground for at least two
months, not subjecting the young plants to
such exposure as to cause shrivelling of the
roots, but placing them in dry sand in a well
ventilated position. Lift the plants in July and
replant them in September or early in October.
Ins coreana, we do not know. It is possible
that the name is a corruption of I. caurina,
which is also known as I. versicolor var.
virginica. If so, treatment like that given to
I. graminea should be suitable. Should the
plants remain more or less evergreen as in I.
graminea, there should be little difficulty in
flowering them.

Italian Papers: A. L. In addition to the one
mentioned in last week's issue, we are reminded
by a correspondent of La Villa cd il Giardino,
Rcvista Mensile di Orticoltura, published at Piazza
Rusticucci 34, Rome. This periodical has been
out about two years, and is edited by N, Severi.
The subscription is five francs per annum.

Names of Plants: A. C. H. Vanda teres, an
ordinary variety. The jagged edge of one of
the side-lobes of the lip is abnormal. Cypri-
pedium siamense, a very poor Cypripedium
found in gardens under several names. — J. J. F.
Berberis empetrifolia. — 11'. A'. The Norway
Maple, Acer pseudo platanus. — F. G. b. The
Douglas fir — PseudotsugaDouglasi ; Epimedium
alpinum. — C. A. N. Crataegus coccinea. — J. D.
Richmansivorth . Staphylea pinnata. — H. R. G.

1, Sedum se.xangulare ; 2, Sedum hispanicum ;

3, Sedum album; 4, Fuchsia " Sunray " ; 5,
Sedum carneum variegatum ; 6, probably a
Cotyledon. — J. M. 1, Nephrolepis pectinata ;

2, Echinocactussp. ; 3, Dendrobium ne.xt week ;

4, Cupressus nootkatensis : 5, CupressusLawson-
iana; 6, Juniperus sinensis. — T. R.&-Son. Rus-
cus androgynus, a greenhouse climber from the
Cape. — A. N.R. Caladiums should be sent to a
grower for naming, as they need careful com-
parison. 2, is probably SilverQueen ; 3, Pellionia
Daveauana, — E. L. 1, Pyrus malus floribunda ;
2, Ornithogalum nutans ; 3, Dendrobium next
week ; 4, Cotyledon (?) ; 5, Adiantum poly-
phyllum.

Notice to Leave : H. Y. N. In the absence of
an agreement the employer might demand a
month's notice, but if the case were taken to
Court the magistrate might be guided by the
c.cumstances of the particular case of which
we know but little.

Peaches Spotted : J.H.A. The fruits are covered
with patches of the common Peach mildew — ■
Gidium leucoconium. Burn the diseased fruits,
and spray the trees and remaining fruits with
liver of sulphur, using 2 ozs. to a gallon of water.

Peach Prince of Wales : A. N.R. The anaemic-
looking condition of the foliage is due to the
disease described as " Silver Leaf." Not much
is known of the cause of silver leaf, although by
some authorities it is attributed to a ferment
secreted by fungus at the roots of the tree.
Cut out the aftected branches, water with a weak
solution of iron sulphate, and in the autumn
examine the roots and place fresh soil about them.

PiERis Wimsetti : Hortus. Numerous forms of
this plant are seen, and yours is certainly one
of the most pleasing. The leaves sent greatly
resemble those of P. Childsi.

Testimonial : Cheshire. Not knowing the cir-
cumstances we cannot offer a definite opinion
as to whether the testHmonial is an honest ex-
pression of your employer's opinion or not.

Tulip : Chrysalora. The bulbs are attacked with
the Tulip mould, Botrytis parasitica. Burn the
affected bulbs and do not plant in the same
ground next year.

Whitmill's Gardeners' Universal Calendar,
1747 : H. G. We do not think this is very
valuable. Its exact financial value would be
determined on sending it to the sale rooms.

Communications Received.— S. W. F.— F. B. — E. M. —
J. F. R.— A. P. H.— E, L.— J. M.— F. E. B.— F. H.,
Redlands— U. S. A.— H. B.— T. H. C— A. W.— C. L.—
A. A. W.— J. T — S. C— Interested, Cape Colonv—
H. R. W. -H. K.— "W. B. B.— D. R, 'W.— T. B.— J. B. C.—
A. B. G.— H. B.— L. E. W.— H. J. W.-B.

For Market Reports see page xii.

Supplement to ihe "Gardeners' Chronicle."

Photo by E. J. WalUs.

Arctotis aspera. Flowers creamy white, foliage greyish green.
P'rom the Royal Gardens, Kew.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.G.

May 12, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

289

%M..<;^M^ ^d

THE

No. 1,011.— SATURDAY, May 12, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Agricultural College,

Wye 297

American tree Carna-
tions 298

Arachnanthe aTnamen-

sis 290

Aubrietia tauricola alba 294
Battersea Park, suring

bedding at ... " ... 290
Books, notices of —

Botanical Magazine ... 297
Cassell's Dictionary

of Gardening ... 298

Flora Brasiliensis .., 297

Kew Bulletin ... 29B

La Tribune Horticole 297

The "Tatur Disees" 29H

Calceolaria raexicana ... 301
Calla Elliottiana, with

double spathes .. 298

Cattleya Schroeder alba 300

Cestrum Smilhii ... 300

Chicory and Hares ... 301
Chinese note-book,

leaves from my ... 293

Conifers, Chinese ... 299

Cornwall, the weather in 3U2
Ether, forcing plants by

the aid of 298

Flowers, balance in ... 296
Flowers from Leonards-
lee Gardens 301

Foreign correspondence

Kochia trichophylla .. 300
Gardeners' society, an

international 301

Gardening books, a sale

of 297

Hippeastrums, hardi-
ness of 301

Irises, bulbous ;M1

Kalanchoe Dyeri „ 296
Kew Guild dinner ... 296
Market gardening ... 2S2
Narcissus Pearl of Kent 292
Kicandra violacea ... 302
Nursery Notes-
Bakers' Codsall ... 299

Obituary —
Barron, John...
Brightwen. Mrs. Eliza
Swailes, Geo. C.

Orchid notes and glean-
ings

Pictures at the Royal
Academy

Plants new or note-
worthy—
Primula orbicularis ...

Reafforesting in the
Midlands

Salad, a Japanese

Saxifrapa Boydii, the
historyof

Seeds packed for the
tropics

Senecio Petasites

Small Holdings

SolanumCommersoni ..

Societies —
Edinburgh Spring

Flower Show

Rojral Horticultural ...

(Scientific Committee)

Royal Scottish Arbori-

cultural

Strawberries injured by
mice

Strawberries, support-
ing trusses of

Sweet Peas, early, in
Ireland

Tool, a new garden

Wadds, Bailey, retire-
ment of

Water gardens, the for-
mation of

Week's Work, the—
Fiow.er garden, the ...
Fruits under glass ...
Hardy fruit garden ...
Kitchen garden, the ...
Orchid houses, the ...
Plants under glass -.

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Abies squamata, a new species with deciduous, scaly

bark

Arachnanthe annamensis

Cattleya Schroeder alba ...

Kalanchoe Dyeri (Supplementary Illustration).

Narcissus cyclamineus. a tine pot plant cf

Narcissus Pearl of Kent

Tool, a new garden

303
303
304

291

290

293
297

301

303
SOI
297
293

302
296
302

297

301

301

301
300

302

291

295
294
295
295
294
295

299
£90
300

291
293
300

THE ROYAL ACADEMY.

THERE are fewer floral and garden
subjects in this year's exhibition than
we have ever noted before. There are
hardly any flower-studies in oils, and
the few that are show-n are small in size and
without interest. It is far better to exhibit
no flower, fruit, or garden subjects than to
deface the walls with crude suggestions or
^'impressions" of nothing. "Impressions" are
sometimes very well from masters of art, but
we are nowadays far too often favoured with
" impressions " from ladies and gentlemen
who have no foundation knowledge and so
have nothing to impress. The almost total ab-
sence of flower subjects from the Roval Aca-
demy this year is not because all the subjects
have been painted, and there is nothing more
to paint, for during the last two years many
magnificent new plants have been flowered
for the first time. The truth is, flower-painting
is not easy ; many flowers will not wait ; they
change, fade, and droop before one's e.ves;
they are not suitable for slap-dash work ; they

cannot be remembered and must be drawn as
well as painted from the life. It often hap-
pens, even in simple subjects, that the draw-
ing alone is most difficult, and painting^ as
regards colour, almost impossible.

Sometimes landscape and architectural ar-
tists treat us to night subjects, as 21, The
Temple of Tivoli, by moonlight (Harold
Speed), but where is the moon? and 393, TJie
Kiiiiis of the Ampliiiheatre, Pompeii (O.
Wynne Apperley). This, too, is a night
subject. Both these pictures would

have required great skill in drawing
and painting had they been pictures
of daylight on classical ruins, but how
easy it is to judge of architecture as seen
at midnight. Who would be satisfied with
Amiens in a dense fog, or with Veitch's or
Sanders' Orchids as seen at midnight, with-
out a candle? In 432, The Acropolis, from
the Pnyx, Athens (John Fulleylove), we have
an excellent picture of the Parthenon and ad-
joining buildings, as seen in daylight. Mr.
Fulleylove is an accomplished architectural
artist, who can both draw and paint. No one
wishes to trouble about temples and amphi-
theatres in the middle of the night, or to see
alleged representations of such objects where
the drawing is obviously incorrect.

Whilst flower subjects seem to have almost
vanished, there is an extra number of studies
of — well, let us say. Naiads, Oreads, and
Dryads ; these ladies look very well if carefully
drawn and painted, but one may easily have
too many of them, as they are annually
represented in the Paris Salon.

In 44, Calm before a Storm (Alfred
Parsons, A.) we have an admirable and most
carefully painted landscape, every part — sky,
water, trees, and even water plants, as the
flowering Rush and white Water Lilies — stud-
ied from nature. One cannot pass 90,
Liiinean Society of London, Admission of
Lady Fellows (James Sant, R..\.). This re-
presents the meeting rcom of the society,
with the president formally admitting Mrs.
Frank Crisp as a Fellow ; numerous other
easily recognised portraits are given in this
picture. 95, /. Williams Benn, Esq., M.P.
(George Clausen^ .\.) : this portrait is re-
markable as coming from the brush of a most
famous landscape painter, another of whose
works — 109, The Green Fields — hangs near
by. 205, The Sleeping Beauty (Archibald
Wakeley) : the t)eauty is surrounded with
curved briars. The beauty may have been
painted from life, but we have never seen
living briars similar to those in the picture.
Everyone knows the work of John S.
Sargent, R.A. In 207, Maud the Daughter
of George Coats, Esq., visitors may note how-
Mr. Sargent polishes off Roses ; there are two
w-hite Roses on the lady's neck, and a third
elsewhere. There are flowers in 395, The
Market Place (Edith J. Sealy), but one can-
not properly see the picture, which is close to
the floor, without doubling one's self up like
an acrobat, and this feat we were unable to
accomplish. 402, Jiily (Ernest R. Fox), is a
garden view, with Poppies, Lilies, and one
scraggy Rose bush. 441, Autumn Garden,
Bavaria (Orrin Peck) : an unusually large
picture, with large, life-size cabbages in' the
foreground ; it is easier to paint cabbages
than Lilies, the former can be " suggested "'
more readily. 4S5, Fleur-de-Lis : a lady in
white (G. A. Storey, .\ ). The ladv is accom-

panied by Lilies and Begonias of forms un-
known to the writer. .Similar unusual
varieties of plants occur in the same artist's
493, Leda. ^2y, Summer Ros'sS (Alfred
Morgan) : this picture is cornered in such a
peculiar way, and w-as so glossy when we
were in Gallery VHI, that we could not see
the summer Roses. 564, Summer Flowers :
we are not inclined to offer criticism on
this effort. 566, Stocks (John Gray) : we
have never seen stocks like these, either in
form or co!our. 573, Where Painted Leaves are
Strewn (John Sowerby), is an old-fashioned,
garden with tall Chrysanthemums. ,658,
Shirley Poppies (Miss .\rnesby Brown) : faint
suggestions of the poorest forms and colours.
710, The Ever Open Door (Sigismund
Goetze) : a large picture, with'a foreground of
cut flowers, all of the crudest " Berlin wool "
character. 741, The Blessing of the Plants,
Santa Barbara, California (Orrin Peck) :
this represents monks sprinkling pot-flowers
of unknown species with holy water. The
ecclesiastic who holds the holy water is kneel-
ing'- 7561 Her First Communion (Mary F.
Raphael) : this represents a girl clad in white,
with her face veiled; the veil, like darkness
or fog, comes in conveniently. The maid is
surrounded with what are possibly meant for
w-hite Lilies ; we are uncertain. We have
passed over many e.xcellent landscapes by
Sir Ernest A. Waterlow, R.A., B. E. Leader,
and others; we have passed the historical
pictures of various degrees of merit and de-
merit, and an army of portraits, these por-
traits often of wholly unknown people, all
striking attitudes, some frow-ning, others
smiling, some familiar, others haughty, two
w-ith cigars. They fairly frighten us ; most
of the portraits are advertisements of the
painter's ability, and priced at so much a
square foot.

Now there are the water-colours, where the
dreaded "First Violet," "Early Blossoms,"
" Bird's Nest, Snail Shell and Ivy-leaf,"
threaten us. We slowly enter, with trenibling
footsteps and suppressed anger, indicative of
sudden apoplexy. 859, My Neighbour's Gar-
den (Frederick W. Jackson) : a suggestion of
the neighbour's white Lilies. 873, Hollyhocks
by a Grass Walk (Alfred A. Parsons, A.); 890,
The Priory : autumn flowers, by the same ar-
tist. These two pictures immediately arrest
attention for their truth and beauty. Here
we have trees. Hollyhocks, Clematis, Cine-
rarias, Ampelopsis, and other plants most
truthfully drawn and coloured. Immense
care has been taken in the production of these
two small w-orks. In our opinion, a journey
might be profitably made to Burlington
House solely to see them. 1013, Anemones
(Helen Thornycroft) is very well executed.
1023, Violets, by the same artist, less well.
In the centre of the screen and " on the line,"
is 1008, Zi)inias (H.R.H. Princess Patricia of
Connaught) : the drawing represents a group
of Zinnias of different colours in a tumbler
of water. Zinnias are not very graceful
plants, they are somewhat stiff and formal,
difficult to draw and difficult to colour; the
petals are geometrically arranged like scales
en a cone, .so that a new study is required for
every position of a bloom. The colours are
well known and opaque, and so in every way
the subject is a difficult one. The draw-ing
is well worth notice as an attempt to over.
come difficulties. Your .Irtist.

290

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, 1906.

ARACHNANTHE ANNAMENSIS.

All who saw this remarkable flower at the last
meeting o{ the Royal Horticultural Society were
impressed with the singular form and structure
shown in its parts. The posterior sepal was raised
almost perpendicularly aloft, and it finished a
short distance from the end with a lobe that grace-
fully terminated in a point. The other two sepals
hung down, and, curving until they over-lapped,
formed an alighting board in place of the lip which
is very much reduced. This latter organ is whitish,
marked with purple, and is altogether insignificant.
The blotchings seen on the sepals and petals are
reddish-brown in colour, the interruptions being
of a yellow shade. The plant was introduced
from Annam by Messrs. Sander and Son, and was
flowered last year by F. W. Moore, Esq., at

There is considerable space occupied by promis-
cuous mixtures of Dutch bulbs. Crocuses, species
of Narcissus that flower early in the spring, which,
however, made but an evanescent show owing to
the cold, wet weather prevailing, nothing remain-
ing of this but the foliage at the present date.

Of varieties of florists' Tulips there were observed
fine masses of Jost Von Vondel, scarlet and white ;
Cottage Maid, showing well in mixture with Belvoir
Castle yellow-flowered Wallflowers ; T. Wouver-
mans, and the same variety of Wallflower ; T.
Proserpine, a very fine bed ; and another of T.
Reiser's Kroon, one of the finest, large, red-flowered
varieties either for bedding or for pot culture; T.
White Swan; T. La Belle Alliance, a fine old scarlet-
flowered variety was effective, mixed with Hya-
cinth ' ' gigantea. ' ' One of the best beds consisted of

Fig. iiS.— /.rachnanthe ann.wiensis, colour of flower yellow with purple spots.

Glasnevin, who showed the specimen from which
our figure was taken on May 1, at the l^oyal Hor-
ticultural Society, Westminster.

BATTERSEA PARK.

Apart from the budding beauty of tree and
shrub in this interesting park is the fine display
made by the beds of Narcissus, Tulips, Wall-
flowers, Doronicum, Primulas, Polyanthus, and
Megaseas, some, mixed together, in pleasing com-
binations in the sub-tropical garden, the panel
parterre near the western entrance, the refreshment
kiosk on the front, and in other parts. The earlier
varieties of Hyacinths, Van Thol Tulips, and
Daffodils are now past, but much remains in full
beauty, and in the event of fine weather ensuing
will afford a good display for a few weeks longer.

H. King of the Blues, associated with Tulips
Thomas Moore and Couleur Cardinal, and likewise
with T. Yellow Prince in another bed, forming a
telling contrast. Several beds of Narcissus Barri
conspicuus were excellent. A very large oblong
bed, filled with brown Wallflowers, yellow and
scarlet Tulips, and varieties of Narcissus, finds
many admirers. A mass of Doronicum aus-
triacum, with bright yellow flowers, and one of
the earliest of the genus to come into bloom, was
associated with La Belle Alliance Tulip in quantity,
and made an effective group. The foregoing beds
are to be found in the sub-tropical garden, and
they comprise the best display in the park at the
present date. In other parts the beds are few,
the cost being limited in amount. Still, enough is
done to save the park from the charges of bald-
ness and lack of colour at this season. Of other

plants note should be made of the numerous varie-
ties of Crabs, double and single-flowered Cherries
and Almonds, which enliven the shrubberies
during March, April, and the early weeks of May.
Striking blotches of colour are at present afforded
by Acer rubrum, whose young leaves of red,
yellow, and light green tints are very conspicuous
here and there. Unfortunately the colouring
becomes dull with the advance of the season,
and finally green. F. M .

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

PRIMULA ORBICULARIS.*
Yet another new species of Primula from China !'
And we know that there are still many more un-
described, to say nothing of the undiscovered ones ;.
for as vast areas of Western China are unex-
plored, we may reasonably expect that collectors
have not nearly exhausted the flora. P. orbicularis
has foliage very similar to that of P. Cockburniana
and P. tangutica, species of recent introduction,
but the flowers are very different. Its nearest
allies, however, are P. sikkimensis and P. Stuartii,
from which it differs in having nearly entire leaves ;
in the tube of the corolla, which scarcely exceeds
the calyx and is constricted near the top and below
the middle at the insertion of the very short
stamens, and in the limb of the corolla, which is
quite flat with quite entire lobes. Indeed the
structure of the flowers is more like that of some
species of Androsace. The description below was
drawn up from a plant which probably did not
represent the full development of the species. It
was sent to Kew to be named by Messrs. James
Veitch & Sons, who raised it from seeds brought
home from Western China by Mr. E. H. Wilson.
The latter did not meet with it in flower,
but collected seed on the chance of it being
worth cultivating. He also dried specimens of
what he believes to be this species, but they
present some difterences, possibly due to the con-
ditions under which they grew. In the first place
they are more robust, the largest having a scape
15 inches high and bearing two tiers of eight and
nine seed vessels respectively, and leaves as much
as 8 inches long, the petioles being narrow
and nearly as long as the blade. The greater
elongation may have been brought about by their
growing in humus. Time will show whether they
are really the same as our P. orbicularis, which has
yellow, fragrant flowers about 1 inch in diameter,
and almost like those of an Auricula in texture and
substance. It is certainly a very pretty and distinct
species. The name has reference to the general
outline of the flower and the separate lobes of the
corolla.

[We learn from Messrs. Veitch that P. orbicularis
has been inadvertently distributed by them under
the name P. tangutica, but P. orbicularis is a finer
thing. Those concerned should communicate
with the firm. — Ed.]

"Primula orbicularis, Hemsley, species nova es afiinitate
P. sikkimensis et P. Stuartii, a quibus foliis fere integris,
corolla: tubo calycem vix excedente et limbo rotato lobis
iiitegerrimis differt.

Folia subcoriacea, oblongo-lanceolata, 2-6 poll, longa,
inferiora minora, obtusa, longitudinaliter recurva, minute
dentata, in petiolum late alatnm subvaginantem augustata,
primum minute farinosa. Scapus circiter pedalis, teres, ac
flores flavo-velalbo-farinaceus. Involucri bractciE 5-7,
parvae, pedicellis multoties breviores, basi incrassatie,
connat:E. Pcdicclli, saltern per anthesin, 3-4 lin. longi.
Umbella: 5-7 flora?, floribus luteis fragrantibus. Calyx.
crassus, campanulatus, vix ^ poll, longus, intus extusque
farinosus; lobi ovati. obtusi, erecti, tubum sequantes.
Corolla: hypocraterimorphas tubus calycem vix excedens,
prope apicem et infra medium ad staminum insertionem
constrictus, fauce angusto crenulato; limbus orbicularis,
rotatus, circiter 1-poll. diametro, planus, lobis fere orbi-
cularibus leviter obtegenlibus integerrimis margine cilio-
latis. Stamina ad tubi constrictionem infra medium
inserta ; filamenta i lin. longa; anthera3 circiter lineam
longa?. Stylus inclusus, stamina superans.— China; occi-
dentalis incola. W. liotling Hcmtlcv.

May 12, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

291

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

ODONTOGLOSSUM CERVANTESII
PUNCTATISSIMUM.
A FLOWER of this rare and pretty variety of
Odontoglossum Cervantesii, which was origin-
ally described in the Gardeners' Chronicle (1878,
II., p. 527) by th-e late Professor Reic.henbach,
is sent by Captain J. B. H. Goodden, Compton
House, Sherborne, Dorset, who states that it is
from a freshly imported plant. The species
varies considerably, the variety decorum having
a deeply and irregularly lobed lip, and the

A NEW DENDROBE.
In tlie Queensland Agricultural Journal for March,
1906, Mr. F. Manson Bailey, the colonial
botanist, describes a new white flowered Dendro-
bium, of the Aporum section. It is a native of
British New Guinea, and is said to be well worthy
of cultivation. The name given to it by Mr.
Bailey is D. litoreura.

DENDROBIUM THYRSIFLORUM

GALLICEANUM.

In Lindenia, VI. t. 241, a pretty, though

evidently abnormal. Dcndrobium is figured as

D. Galliceanum. The variation from ordinary

ODONTOGLOSSUM TRIUMPHANS.
A FLOWER of a very distinct form of this species
is sent by Messrs. John Cowan & Co., Gateacre
Nurseries, near Liverpool, who state that their
importation has given several instances of similar
forms. The sepals and petals are not barred, but
are almost of a bright chestnut red colour, the tips
only being yellow. The lip also is of the same
colour as the petals with the exception of a narrow
white margin, and a small whitish area around the
crest. It is a very distinct and effective variety,
the reddish glow at the base of the petals giving
the flowers a bright appearance. /. O'B.

Fig. iig. — a fine pot of narcissus cyclamineus grown in the alpine house at kew.
(From a recent photograph by Mr. E. J. Wallis.)

-variety roseum, which has the usually white
outer halves of the segments rose-tinted. The
variety punctatissimum combines the characters
of both the others named, but has in addition
a profusion of small deep rose-coloured spots
on all the segments, the front of the lip and
the wingj of the column being very prettily
decorated with them and having also a distinct
red spot at the inner angles of the irregular
lobes of the margin of the lip. A very finely
coloured flower of O. Rossi rubescens is also
sent.. Both these pretty dwarf Mexican species
are cool-house plants, and, with care, may be
grown in an ordinary conservatory. They
thrive best in Orchid pans suspended near the
glass nf the roof, but if grown in pots they
should be placed on a shelf near to the glass.
When arranged on the staging with stronger-
j^rowing species they usually degenerate.

D. thyrsiflorum consists in the flat arrangement
of the labellum. which is yellow in the centre and
broadly margined with white. Some of these
pretty abnormal forms are constant, and it would
be interesting to know whether that plant, which
was also shown at the Royal Horticultural Society,
proved so or not. A similar variety is sent by Mr.
R. Robinson, Arabella Street, Roath Park, Cardiff,
who has been asked to report on the plant when
next it flowers. The sepals and petals are
white and as in ordinary D. thyrsiflorum, but
the labellum is broadly ovate, acuminate and
slightly concave, white with a broad orange band
down the middle. Very different from the
ordinary form. The difference seems to be by
a reversal of the usual peloric condition in which
the petals or sepals resemble the labellum.
In this case the sides of the labellum appear to be
petaloid, both in texture and colour.

WATER GARDENS.

The transformation of lakes, pools, and water-
courses into veritable water-gardens, their dis-
position in the garden-landscape, and the plants
to be used in connection with them, call for
more intelligent study and artistic conception
than the subjects generally receive. Hundreds
of sites in various parts of Great Britain lend
themselves effectively to the artistic formation
of water gardens of the best possible type ; the
lake and riverside, the smaller streams, the
castle and farm-moat, the curling pond, the
duck pond, or even the ditch fed by land drains
and small springs may all be suggested in this
connection. A few such sites have become
models of what a water garden should be — note-
worthy exceptions of careful planning and
planting. Some, however, have become simply

292

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, ia06.

flower gardens of no particular merit, the water
being an incident in a great floral display rather
than the dominant feature ; but the great majo-
rity of such sites are left to nature's own plant-
ing— in some instances it is done more effec-
tively and artistically than man can do it ; in
others the results are of a negative description.
I have seen tiny rock-pools constructed at con-
siderable expense, when, but a few hundred
yards away, all the materials lor the formation
of a water garden that all could admire and
thousands might envy, had been wholly over-
looked.

The best type of a water garden is that which
is designed away from the formal parts of the
garden proper, one amid scenes of sylvan beauty
for preference, and, whether large or small, there
should be nothing attempted that will give the
impression of a strained effort to secure bril-
liant colour effects. The gardener will need to
forget for the moment more than half his ex-
perience and training, and betake himself to
the nearest riverside to study how native plants
grow in such places, and strive to introduce into
his water scene that restful charm which the
careful disposition of stately waterside plants
and lovely aquatics -alone can give.

Three other styles of water gardens, mainly
artificial, are possible, viz., the rock-pool, the
ornamental basin, or fountain of worked stone,
and the modest series of sunken tubs, that admit
of the cultivation of aquatic and water-loving
plants in the smallest garden.

Rock-pools.

The rock-pool is the kind of water garden
usually adopted. It has the advantage of being
easily made and easily managed, being simply
a hollow formed at the foot of a rockery and
fed by a trickling stream, and occasionally en-
hanced by a small waterfall, the source of which
is hidden among stones. These rock-pools have
a real use in that they enable one to grow a
variety of plants in and around them that would
be difficult to manage under more natural con-
ditions, and they often form part of a very in-
teresting and enjoyable picture ; in fact, the
rock-pool is the only possible water garden for
the small estate. The rock garden benefits by
such an addition in no uncertain way. Every
rock garden that I have seen built of other
than stratified stone that alone suggests a rugged
bank represents the world of plants practically
upside down, and the more elaborate the rock
garden the more apparent does this peculiarity
become.

In the first place, the Alpine " ascent " is
often reversed in the rock garden — the Al-
pine flora finding a position near the base,
whilst bold-habited plants of the plains are
placed at the top, an anomaly that is difficult
to overcome so long as rock gardens assume file
form of piles of stones and " dug-outs," in the
stead of a more natural arrangement in which
weatherworn boulders jut out from a turf slope,
as one sees them in so many instances, both at
home and abroad. The rock-pool helps, in a
great measure, to counteract this incongruity,
for bold-habited marsh or aquatic plants, and
the presence of water in some quantity, lend to
the rock garden the only natural features of its
scheme, and destroy that sense of artificiality
which dominates every rock garden known to
me. The rock-pool cannot be considered a water
garden in its proper sense ; it e.\ists mainly for
the benefit of the rock garden.

The ornamental basin or fountain is too ob-
viously a work of art for the gardener to do
much with, beyond introducing a few of the
lesser Water Lilies, whose presence will tend to
lessen its architectural severity.

The series of siiuken tubs is at its best only a
means tha: enables one to grow water plants

almost anywhere, but there is ample scope for
careful planning in tub gardening, and many
an uninteresting slope could be transformed int j
a water garden by the use of tubs, that for in-
terest and effect, particularly when associated
with rocks, would compare favourably with
many natural water gardens of larger dimen-
sions.

Lakes and Po.nds.

Let us now consider the formation and fur-
nishing of the large lake or pond, as representa-
tive of the ideal water garden. The alteration
of the configuration and formation of large lakes
should be entrusted to a landscape gardener
skilled in such works. A few notes may,
however, be helpful to those who wish for sug-
gestions in the converting and planting of the
ideal lake for water gardening. Assuming that
the lake has to be made, and that a goodly
supply of water is obtainable or existent, for
without this little can be done, and, further, that
a water-bearing stratum of soil can easily bo
reached, the first consideration is that of posi-
tion, and in deciding this the natural lie of the
ground is a governing factor. Choose, if pos-
sible, a natural depression within view of the
house, but quite away from it, arranging for
one or more diverse vistas, showing various
breadths of water in the landscape, and carry
out the planting of the banks with the same
end in view. The vistas may terminate 'with
the lake at every point, unless there is an object
worth revealing beyond it, but if the object
dominates the lake it is better that the latter
and its immediate environment should be the
sole objective. A line of vision may cross a
broad strip of water for the benefit of revealing
an object of interest in the far distance without
interfering with the value of either objective.

The shape of the lake is also a matter to be
governed by the natural disposition of the
ground. The ideal lake is one which shows a
goodly breadth of water from several points of
view, and yet presents an irregular margin. If
the position chosen contains a few distant
groups of trees already developed, the water
oculd be so dealt with as to completely encircle
one or more trees or groups of trees, and project
the area of water between other groups to repre-
sent natural erosion. Thus planned, it is easy
to secure a shape that can only be described as
irregularly serpentine, the width much dis-
tended at intervals. Any attempt to make a
perfectly round, square or oblong lake is never
satisfactory, and generally involves endless
trouble in arranging plants and trees to destroy
the formal outline.

The nature of the plants for the water garden
and the best positions for them to occupy, call
for treatment at greater length. The average
gardener first directs attention to the extreme
centre of any plan he may devise — a, good plant
or bola group "for the centre" becomes almost
a law ; but in the best interests of a water
garden the centre must be left alone. Quite
two-thirds of the surface of every lake or large
pond designed for ornament must be left un-
furnished. The expanse of water is sufficiently
ornamental without the planters' aid, and any
aquatics that may be grown should be planted
near the margins only, and even then they should
be in big detached groups. Trees, shrubs and
tall grasses on the banks should have a clear ex-
panse of water at their feet, to lend additional
charm in their reflections on the water's surface.

Aquatic plants should occupy the bays and
shallows around the margins, and these, too,
should occur in masses and, reaching the
water's edge, join with the adjacent bog and
marsh plants. Broader openings may, with
advantage, be left where the turf may reach the
water's edge, especially in places where a good
view of the lake is possible from the house or

terraces, and in such vistas a few of the rarer
aquatics and marsh plants could be planted,
provided they were quite of small growth.
G. B. Mallctt.

{To be continued.)

MARKET GARDENING.

GRAPES.
The Belgian and Channel Island Hambro's
and the first supplies from Worthing were on the
market together. How does this affect the home
grower ? Not at all if his are of better quality.
This is the whole pivot of the matter, and with
a bulk of cheaper or inferior Grapes to face, let
the Worthing and other home growers strive to
produce the best. A proof of this is to be found
in May and June, when, with a free supply of
Channel Island Grapes, say at 2s. per lb., a near
home-grower with fruit of first-class quality com-
mands double that price.

TOMATOS.

Crops intended to pay for growing must be of
the best quality, yet how many growers are there
who to-day are courting failure by their non-
observance of the ordinary routine of soil — or
border — culture before planting.

Labour is an expensive item, and returns per
weight are lower than formerly, but if a crop
will not pay to grow well, it will be less profitable
on rougher lines.

Accidental success is too often the cause of later
failure : thus a good return may for once be had
from a rough style of culture, and this may tempt,
the grower to extend the practice, but very rarely
does he succeed with these methods the next
year. Depressed markets and low prices should
only stimulate the careful grower to strive for a
still better crop, always remembering that the best
quality produce will always sell first.

SPIR.EA ■■ WHITE QUEEN."
This varietj', for which JVlessrs. J. Veitch & Sons,
Ltd., obtained a Royal Horticultural Society's
Certificate, is proving itself to be a good market-
plant. I have seen it in the market for some time
past, and on the 12th inst., when calling at the
Orleans Nursery, Twickenham, Mr. J. Bruckhaus
spoke of it most highly. Some 1,000 plants have
passed through his hands this season, and have
proved to be very remunerati\e.

With a dozen heads of flowers, with clean, dense
foliage, it stands out well as a market pot-plant.
By comparison with other varieties it is a very
decided advance. Stephen Castle.

NARCISSUS PEARL OF KENT.

Since the advent of Narcissus albicans we hav*
become quite accustomed to white Trumpet
Daffodils, and following in the line of such
grand Cowers as Loveliness, Peter Barr, and
others, there are two new flowers, both white,
and both sufficiently meritorious to gain the Award
of Merit from the Narcissus Committee of the
Royal Horticultural Society. The one was shown
by Miss Currey, under the name of Mrs. Robert
Sydenham; the other, an illustration of which we
present in fig. 120, was raised by the Rev. G.
P. Haydon, at Westbere, in Kent, and appro-
priately named by him Pearl of Kent. It is an
excellent flower in every respect, and among white
Ajax kinds may be regarded as superlative. It
possesses remarkable vigour, and is tall of stature.
We may liken it to a giant cernuus, and as the
ground colour is as pure as that of Peter Barr,
and the form as comely as that of Madame de
Graaft, it will readily be seen that it is a great
acquisition. The parents are said lo have been.
Madame de Graaff and Monarch.

iMav 1-2. izm.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

29^

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

A JOURNEY IN EASTERN TIBET.

(Continued from page 259.)

June II. — It rained most of the night, and

dark, heavy mists hung about the valley as we re-

surr/ed our joiirnicy. Our missing man did not

arrive last night, and we made arrangements

with our host to send out men to search the

country. We gave the chief a couple of rupees

and a tobacco box, and presented trivial gifts to

half-a-dozen of his retainers, and left them all

happy and satisfied.

main stream joins the Valung below Hokeou,
and a road to Yunnan follows the left bank.

We journeyed through a fiat and partially,
cultivated valley some 500 yards broad. Fields
of Barley and small patches of Peas were fairly
common, fenced in by hedges of Gooseberry
and Spiraea. Remains of forests were evident on
the opposite bank of the stream. The grassy
meadows were gay with Anemones, Buttercups,
and purple Erigeron. In heathy places a Poly-
gonatum and Cynanchum were common. A tiny
Androsace, with flowers of varying shades of
red, covered acres of the wayside.

At 2 p.m. we reached Tongolo (alt. I2,0C0 feet),

Fig. 120. — XARCissus pearl of kent.

Flower-scape, 11 inches high ; perianth white, 4.1 inches across ; trumpet, 2 incces longand U inch across
at the mouth; width of perianth segments, 2 inches. (For text see page 292.)

Our road was of the easiest through a wide and
sparsely-cultivaied valley, flanked by mountains
covered with snow to within 500 feet of the
valley. We passed several Tibetan, farmsteads
and many ruins, and about four miles from An-
Tam-pa a very fine Obo erected to the memory
of a local Tibetan who distinguished himself at
Lhassa. The archiiecture was essentially Indian
in characier. ;

Just below the Obo we crossed the stream by
a wooden bridge, and about a mile on from the
bridge reached a Tibetan village (alt. 12,000
feet), and turned up a side valley to the right. ■
We now left the stream, which rise* in the Cheh-
to pass, and ascended a sri'ialf tributary. The

our halting-place for the night. This village
was the largest en route thus far, and is situated
at the mouth of a side valley. The plain at the
point of union of the two valleys was probably a
mile broad, and surrounded by scrub-clad moun-
tains. Near Tongolo a species of Cherr}^ with
scaly bark like a Birch, was common, and
around houses occasional trees of Populus
euphratica occurred.

The mountains flanking the side-valley above
Tongolo were covered with forests. Having
completed the necessary arrangements for re-
maining the night, we visited the forest, but
heavy rain quickly forced us to return. The forest
was composed of Silver Fir, Larch and Birch of

small size, with their stems and branches
draped with grey pendent Lichens. The Lichen
is Usnea barbata, and is known to the natives
by the appropriate name of " Fairies' Scarf "
(Mu-lu-ssu). The Silver Fir, Abies squamata,
is a very singular species, with reddish, scaly
bark and purple cones. The wood is recfdish,
very resinous, and valued for building purposes.
The Tibetans call it To-ma {see fig. , on p. 299).
The Larch is Hungsha of the Chinese, and
is probably Larix Potanini [sea ' Gardeners'
Chronicle, March 24, 1906, p. ' 178]. At
Tatien-lu it is esteemed the most valuable tim-
ber for general building purposes. Several
species of Rhododendron form the undergrowth
in the forest. The Tibetan name for these
shrubs is Ta-ma, and they consider them poison-
ous to cattle. On the margin of the forest bushes
of Pyrus, Viburnum, and other shrubs occur.

Of herbs the most striking were Meconopsis
Henrici, Incarvillea Principis, Cypripendium
tibeticum (Bu-tee-to), and Lilium lophophorum
(Ten-lung). Many other less striking but equally
interesting plants were found, such as various
species of Primula, Saxifraga, Potentilla,
Veronica, and Fritillaria. But perhaps the
most interesting plant of all was Cypripedium
guttatum. This charming little Orchid, with its
flowers blotched with dark-reddish pink and
pure white, was very abundant hereabouts, and
associated with it I collected a pure white form.
This Lady's-slipper has a remarkable distribu-
tion, extending from central Europe, through
temperate Asia, to Alaska ! Near Tatien-Iu I
collected Cypripedium arietinum, a species
found also in Canada and North-East United
States. These two species of Cypripedium are
probably the most widely-diffused members of
the family, and constitute an interesting study
in plant distribution.

June /=•.— Last night, soon after 6 o'clock, the
soldiers left behind at Tizou came up bringing
in the loads carried by our missing man. Shortly
after the soldiers the man himself, more dead
than alive, limped in. He had carelessly taken
the wrong path from the head of the Cheh-to.
pass, and had experienced a very rough time.
Mists hung about the mountains and valleys,
and threatened to turn to rain as we set out at
6 a.m. The sick man was left behind, for he
was quite unable to tackle to-day's pass. We
ascended a narrow valley with steep cliffs on one
side and woodland on the other. The woodland
consisted of the Silver Fir above mentioned,,
with Spruce, Birch, evergreen Oaks, and Rho-
dodendrons. In places Meconopsis integrifolia
was abundant. I noted that bees are very fond
of the pollen of this plant, a dozen or more
being frequently found in a single flow^er.

A sharp bend to the right and our valley
merged into a ravine, at the head of which
stands a dilapidated Tibetan homestead. The
sides of the ravine were covered with fine Coni.
fers, prominent amongst which was the Abies,
with loose, scaly, reddish-coloured bark. Leav-
ing this house, we made a steep ascent, wind-
ing our way around the mountain-side. ' Our
road wound through a wood of Abies and Picea,
in which were countless bushes of Rhododendron,
8 to 15 feet high and as far through, one mass of
white flowers, luxuriate. Snow laid on the
ground all around us, but the Rhododendron
flowers were perfect. The Picea and Abies give
out at about 14,000 feet, but the Rhododendrons,
ascended another 500 feet. A species of Pyrus,
with narrow, pinnate leaves and corymbs of
white flowers, was common up to 14,000 feet.
Of herbs I only gathered a fresh species each of
Primula, Saxifraga, and Anemone. Near the
head of the ridge Willows (still leafless), dwarf,
prickly scrub-Oak, Juniper, and the heath-like
Rhododendron were the only shrubs. "

Crossing the ridge, alt. 14,800 feet (ther-
mometer 48° F.), we reached an extensiv- pla-

294

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

TMay VI, 1906.

teaii, through which a considerable stream iiows
in a south-westerlj' direction. The piateaa was
rery marshy, covered principally with grass,
-and affords excellent pasturage for yak and
i-heep. A steady ascent across this " grassland "
brought us to the head of the pa.ss — 15,050 feet
above the sea. The heath-like Rhododendron
and dwarf Juniper were the only shrubs reach-
ing the head of the pass, and these were reduced
to a few inches in height. Meconopsis integri-
folia (the Ja-po-mei-to of the Tibetans), M. Hen-
rici, and Incarvillea Principis all reach the
head of the pass, but are reduced in height to
4 to 6 inches. A tiny and very curious species
of Primula and Spencera ramulana, with its
handsome yellow, Potentilla-like flowers, were
the only fre.sh plants gathered on the plateau.
Fritillaria Roj'lei, a species of Saxifraga, and
a Gentian were fairly common, and acres of
Caltha, Androsace, and variously-coloured
Anemone carpeted the ground on all sides. Snow
laid in patches, but there was less than might
have been expected from the altitude. Dank
mists obscured our view, but, as far as our
vision ranged, nothing but "grassland" was
visible. Whilst crossing this plateau a thunder-
storm overtook us. It was bitterly cold, and we
were quickly drenched to the skin. Our Tibetan
follower?, clad i:i thick felts and sheepskins,
were much better off, and appeared to enjoy the
storm and our discomfiture. Having crossed
over the pass, we quickly entered a fine forest,
and descended through it by a precipitous path
to the bed of a torrent, which rises in the pass
itself. The forest was, in its upper parts, com-
posed entirely of the Abies with reddish, scaly
bark, with Rhododendrons forming the under-
growth. The branches of the trees were draped
with "Fairies' Scarf.." ;ind Mosses and Lichens
covered the rocks, which are of slate, vertically
inclined. Everything denoted a more humid
climate on this side of the pass. The tree limit
was 14,500 leet — an altitude much higher than I
have noted it before.

From the point where the road strikes the bed
of the torrent, the forest gradually assumed a
mixed character. A species of Picea wrests
supremacy from the Abies. Birch was abun-
dant, and in the bed of the ravine Willows and
Cherry trees were common. The scenery was
very fine — as far as the eye could reach nothing
but forests of gigantic Spruce and Silver Fir.
Fallen giants were strewn about on every side,
and on their rotting trunks huge bushes of Rho-
dodendron luxuriate.

Descending by a more or less easy road,
through a storm of hail and rain, v/e reached the
tiny hamlet of Orang-che (alt. 12,200 feet), our
halting-place for the night. Around Orang-che
every possible bit of the ravine — it could
scarcely be called a valley — was cultivated. The
crops of Wheat and Barley looked very healthy,
though only a few inches high. The cultivated
patches were fenced by hedges of wild Goose-
berry and Rosa sericea. In the surrounding
forests medicinal Rhubarb (Rheum officinale)
was said to abound, and large deer (Wapiti)
were fairly common. Near our hostelry I
gathered two or three fresh plants, including
Berberis sp.. Euphorbia sp., Corydalis sp.,
Ribes sp., Primula sp., and Draba sp. E. H.
Wilson.

(To be cofilinucit.)

It is almost thornless, and the pure white
flowers are borne in immense clusters, so much
so that the growths need to be supported.
Being a true Noisette it is very hardy, requiring no
protection in winter. When planted in combina-
tion with the rich carmine-coloured Longworth
Rambler, syn. "Dechamps," the contrast is
very striking. Many fine Noisette varieties are
hybrids, and these require protection in winter,
unless growing in a very sheltered situation.
Those of vigorous growth are excellent plants for
covering fences or pillars, and if worked on high
standards they are very attractive as weeping
specimens on the grass. The scent of these Roses
is as agreeable as that of any Roses, and the
colours range from pure white through the various
shades of copper rose, yellow, reds, to carmine
and crimson. It'. H. Clarhc, Aston Roivant, Oxoii.

THE ROSARY.

THE VARIETY AIMEE VIBERT AND
OTHERS.
This is still a good Rose, although distributed
by Vibert so long ago as 1828. Few Roses
flower so abundantly as this climbing white
Noisette. In August last, out of ninety varieties
of climbing and rambling Roses of all sections,
not one was so effective in these gardens.

AUBRIETIA TAURICOLA ALBA.

There are many positions where the dwarf
Aubrietia tauricola can be employed, its neat
habit and profuse flowering rendering it of
great value. It was thus with pleasure that
some of us were introduced to A. t. alba, as a
white Aubrietia of this habit is particularly accept-
a'jle in view of the superiority of the Aubrietias
to any of the species of Arabis, especially
as the white Aubrietia would flower at a better
season to associate with the purple and red flowered
species and varieties of its genus. Unfortunately,
however, A. tauricola alba is not absolutely white
as the flowers pass off from pure white soon after
opening to white flushed with lilac, and are finally
entirely lilac or pale purple. Although this variety
is, therefore, not all we desire in the way of a
white Aubrietia, it is a very pleasing little plant.
S. .iriiott, SiiiinyiiicthI, Dumfries.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir TiitvoR Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
SrCH tall growing plants as Epidendrum radi-
cans, K. EUisii, E. xanthinum, E. crassifoliuni,
E. evectum, E. arachnoglossum, E. ellipticum,
E. elongatum, E. cinnabarmum, E. Schom-
biirghi E. paniculatum, also the interesting and
handsome hybrids; E. O'Brienianum, E. del-
lense, E. xantho-radicans, and E. Boundii are
all in bloom at this season, and when grouped
together make a very effective display. All of
them are easily cultivated, and well deserve ex-
tended cultivalion, being exceedingly useful for
cutting and for decorative purposes generally.
The flowers are produced in terminal clusters,
and they last a considerable time in good con-
dition, some even for several months. At Bur-
iord such varieties as E. Schomburghi, E. El-
lissii, E. O'Brienianum and E. Buundu have
been in flower since the middle of January, and
the panicles of brightly-coloured flowers are likely
to continue fresh for several weeks to come.
All of these species and hybrids may be re-
potted after the spikes have been cut, or as
soon as the plants recommence to grow. The
potting material should consist chiefly of sphag-
num-moss, with a few lumps of fibrous peat,
some small crocks and silver sand added. The
drainage should be good. All of the plants
mentioned grow freely in a light, airy position,
either in the Cattleya or intermediate houses,
and when in full growth copious root waterings
become necessary ; it is also advisable to use
the fine sprayer over the plants^ very frequently
during the summer months. The rare £. En-
dresii is also in bloom ; its small waxy-white
flowers, marked with violet on the lip, are
always appreciated. The plant requires almost
the same kind of treatment as those enumerated
above, but it prefers a rather damp and shady
position, and the under sides of the foliage
should be sponged very frequently, so as to
keep them free from red spider. The distinct
hybrids E. Endresio-Wallisii, E. elegantulum,
and E. Clarissa, which have similar characteris-
tics to E. Endresii, require identical treat-
ment. The dwarf growing E. glumaceum
is also in bloom. The well-known Epi-

phronitis Veitchii i^a general favourite, and
it produces its deep crimson flowers at this
season, but in ionie collections, where a number
of plants are cultivated, flowers may be seen at
almost any time of the year. The plant will
grow and flower freely in the intermediate house
and should be elevated as near to the roof glass
as possible. When growing vigorously, some
of these Epidendrums, especially E. radicans, E.
xanthinum, E. O'Brienianum, E. Boundii, also
Epiphronitis Veitchii produce young aerial
growths from the old stems and flower spikes,
and when these oft-shoots begin to produce
roots from their base, they should be cut off
and potted in well-drained sphagnum-moss, 'ine
handsome and distinct E. prismatocarpum will
glow well in the Cattleya house; its flower-
spikes are now pushing up, and the plant, if
well rooted, wiU require plenty of water until
the flowers open, when the quant. ty should be
gradually reduced. E. vitellmum will also be
sending up its flower-spikes ; it requires much
the same treatment as the preceding species, but
should be placed in a light, well-ventilated posi.
tion among the cooler Orchids.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKlNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatiey I'ark, Bedfordshire,

Inarching Vines. — It sometimes occurs to a
gardener that he has got a variety of Grai>e
that is not satisfactory, and that he may graft
or " inarch " on to this vine a variety possess-
ing greater value. Where this work was not
carried out when the buds were dormant, it may
be done at once. The best canes for use as
scions in such a case are those that were rooted
in January, and which are now occupying
7-inch and 8-inch pots. To perform the opera-
tion of inarching, the pot vine should be placed
in close contact with the rod or young growing
shoot of the old vine. Then cut with a sharp
knife a small portion off each shoot, extending
about 2 inches in length ; make a tongue in
each piece of young wood, and place one in the
other, binding them tightly together with thick
raflia and a little moss. Keep the pot contain-
ing the young vine well supplied with water
during the growing season, and syringe
the moss occasionally to prevent the wood
becoming dry. Most people are fond of Muscat
of Alexandria, aijd this, therefore, is the Lirape
to increase. It succeeds well when worked on
the Black Hamburgh, and 1 am going to try it on
the Grizzly Frontignan, which seems a robust
grower and has a good constitution. At the
same time other varieties may be improved ; for
instance, Duke of Buccleuch succeeds exceed-
ingly well on Alnwick Seedling, and Barbarossa
(Gros Guillaume) put on Buckland Sweet-water
finishes most satisfactorily. In my opinion, any
unsatisfactory sort might be improved if worked
on to the old and reliable Black Hamburgh stock.

Bananas (Musa). — Where there are large and
lofty plant stoves, room might be afforded for
one or two plants of this nutritious dessert
fruit. English-grown Bananas are far superior
in flavour to those which are imported. Old
plants send up several suckers each, and these
should now be taken off with a little bit of root
attached. The strongest suckers should be
selected and potted into 8-inch pots, using a
rich compost of good turfy loam, half-inch
bones, and a little decayed cow manure. When
they have filled the pots with roots, transfer
them to a large box or slate tank measuring
about one yard square and the same in depth.
In cases where it is possible, place these over
hot-water pipes to provide bottom heat. The
compost used for the boxes should be the same
as when potting was done, but the ingredients
need not be broken up to the same degree. "The
soil should be warmed through before planting
is done. Let plenty of water be given to the
roots during the growing season, and the plants
kept in a hot and moist atmosphere. When
the " fruit " is swelling, the plants will need more
water than at any other time, and alternate
doses of liquid manure and guano may be
applied. It is a fine sight to see a bunch of
"fruit" from 70 to 80 lbs., and the "fingers"
all about one size. These should now be
severed from the plants, if changing colour, and
be hung up in a warm and moderately dry
atmosphere to finish ripening, offering (-"rem for
dessert as fast as they become ready. <4usa
Cavendishii and M. sapientum are two good
varieties to grow.

May 12, i£061

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

295

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.

Steplianotis. — In many gardens this plant is
grown under conditions unfavourable to its
Howering, even moderately well. The atmo-
sphere ot an ordinary plant stove is too warm
and moist, and the plants are often subjected
to an excessive degree of shade, and they fail
to obtain a season of complete rest, which is of
the utmost importance if the plants are to flower
abundantly. If it is wished, however, to grow
small plants into large ones quickly, then the neat
and moisture of the stove are certainly favour-
able to rapid, and even luxuriant, growth.
After a Stephanotis has rested through the
winter raontns, it may be started into growth in
a hot and moist atmosphere, but as soon as the
growths have attaineo to a length of 8 to 10
inches the plant should be graaual'ly inussed to
a lower temperature, using less fire heat at
night, and admitting more air during the day.
The atmosphere being also drier, tne growths
mad-e will be short-jointed. Avoid training the
shoots too thickly together, as this would pro-
vide one of the best harbours for mealy bug that
can possibly be had. The best method 1 find
of training large plants grown under the roof
is to attach the shoots to strings, allowing only
a suflicient number to fill the allotted space
without overcrowding ; thus insects may be easily
kept down, because it is possible to syringe
every portion of the plant. If the shoots are
trained on this principle, they will not become
twisted together and unmanageable. The pot-
ting materials should consist of fibrous loam,
witn somje dried cow manuBe, charcoal, and
sand. If this treatment be applied, the supposed
shy flowering varieties will bloom profusely.

Removing Forced Plants out of doors. — Owing
to the cold and changeable weather, it h^s been
necessary to keep indoors the bulk of hardy
plants which have been forced and have passed
out of flower. This has caused the available
space indoors to be overcrowded, but now that
the temperature outside is becoming more
favourable, it will be safe to transfer the stock
and put it under the shelter of a wall or hedge,
where the plants may harden and mature their
growth previous to being planned in the quarters
reserved for them, A littlre study in arranging
the plants will be needed, because the more
tender subjects should be placed where they will
be less exposed to cold winds. Previous to
turning the plants outside, let each one te
examined and any long, misplaced growths
should be shortened back in order to maintain
the symmetry of the plants. These specimens
which have been forced this season should not
be lifted again next autumn.

Bouvardias and Fuchsias. — Those Bouvardias
which were propagated early should now be
potted on from the "cutting pots." If any of
the old plants are retained, give them occa-
sional waterings with liquid manure. ^Vhen
potting Bouvardias, let a little bone dust be
mixed in the compost. Any strong shoots
which may eventually take the lead should be
stopped. Fuchsias require similar treatment.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's tjastle, Glamorganshire.

Spring Bedding. — The taste for "Spring Bed-
ding V has largely developed in recent years, and
in many places it has become a feature in the
garden management. The desire to have the
garden looking bright and gay in the early part
of the year as well as in the summer and
autumn months, is one to be commended, and by
the exercise of a little foresight and preparation
spring gardening can be done so easily and inex-
pensively that the system ought even to be more
commoij Apart from bulbs, which are invalu-
able for this style of gardening, there are numerous
hardy early-flowering plants without which no
spring bedding would be complete. It is impos-
sible to imagine anything more charming than the
rich colouring provided in the spring by bold
masses of such old-fashioned flowers as Aubrietia,
Polyanthus, Daisy, Alyssum, Forget-me-Not,
Tufted Pansy and Wallflower. In addition to
these, the Iberis. Arabis, Caltha, Doronicum,
Silene. Auricula, Gentian and the dwarf early
Phloxes are all beautiful spring bedding-plants.
Preparations for next year's display must be
commenced at once. Now is the time to pro-

pagate the Aubrietia by taking cuttings of half-
ripened wood, and dibbling them into 3-inch
pots — four or five into each pot. Any light
soil will do for the cuttings to root in, but
it should be made very firm. Place the pots
in a cold frame, keeping it closed and shaded
until the cuttings have made roots, after which
time admit an abundance of air. When the cuttings
have become thoroughly established plant them in
the open ground singly in nursery rows 6 inches
apart. By the end of September they will have
formed robust, sturdy plants ready for placing out
in their flowering quarters. In making the cuttings
care should be taken not to remove the flower
buds, but to allow them to develop on the cutting,
as this appears to assist their striking freely. By
these means thousands of Aubrietia can readily be
propagated . For spring bedding Aubrietia deltoidea
Campbelli is by far the best. It has a fine compact
habit, and becomes literally smothered with its
lovely, violet-blue flowers, and is particularly well
adapted for associating in masses with the white
Arabis and Alyssum saxatile. A. Hendersoni is a
synonym of Campbelli. There is a new variety
named Dr. Mules which is similar, but of a richer
shade of colour, .\rabis albida and A. alpina are
very profuse and showy white-flowering plants,
but compared with Arabis alpina flore-pleno, a
giirden variety of recent introduction, are not worth
growing. This double-flowered Arabis is so easily
propagated, and of such easy culture, that it should
be substituted in every case for the single-flowered
species. Its flowers resemble those of the double
Stock, which are pure white, and last for a long
time in perfection, whereas the ordinary .\rabis is
of brief duration. Viewed from a distance it
reminds one in eftect of the flowers of the Lily of
the Valley. Its propagation is carried out pre-
cisely as detailed for Aubrietia, and should be
proceeded with at once.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Wall Fruit Trees. — Inspect these carefully and
regularly, tiecause the young shoots will indicaie
by their degrees of vigour to what portions of
the tree an extra amount of sap is flowing.
Early attention is very necessary to trees which
are trained vertically, for if some shoots of
these are not checked, they v;iU soon mono-
polise an undue share of sap. An equal degree
of vigour should be encouraged over all the
tiee by stopping the stronger growths at
6 inches, and if necessary by taking up two
growths instead of one. All shoots that will
not be required permanently should be removed
as early as possible in order that the weaker
ones may thus be strengthened. Horizontally
trained trees do not glow so strongly in any
particular place, but sometimes the upper
branches assume a pronounced lead, and there-
fore the strongest of these shoots should be
pinched quite early. The new shoots require
to be nailed or tied in whilst they are still
small, so that they will not get broken by the
wind or other causes. Where old spurs have
been cut off from Plum or Pear trees, and shoots
are now growing ■tt-ell and strong, these should
be stopped at the third or fourth leaf, and this
will induce them to form other spurs close to
the main branches of the tree, which will pos-
sibly form fruiting wood for another season.
There is nothing to be gained by allowing a
lot of strong growths on any tree, even if
theje be no fruit. Excessively vigorous wood
seldom does produce fruit, but by constant stop-
ping, fruit buds are formed and the tree con-
sequently becomes fertile.

Insect Pests. — Much damage has been done by
frost to the fruit blossom here, especialty to such
blossom as ■was unprotected ; but an equal
amount of damage will be done by insects if
the trees are not carefully watched. This matter
is one of the greatest importance during the
month of May, when attacks are made on the
young growths that are apt to be crippled by
cold winds and frost. If the insecticides are
mixed and put into the garden engine and a few
yards of hose attached, the engine can be
pushed along the walk and pumped by one
person ; another can walk along the 4-foot way
under the wall and very easily distribute the
liquid. The majority of pumps put into the
machines on the market are not nearly powerful
enough, and all should see that a sufficiently
powerful pump is placed into the so-called

garden engine. Many of the engines on the
market are mere toys.

Black Currant Bud 'Mite. — Examine all in-
fested trees and pick off [and burn] the swollen
buds, it being during this month and early in
June that these mites change their quarters,
.^.fterwards spray the bushes thoroughly with a
very strong solution of extract of quassia, wetting
every portion of the tree. If this is done in a
thorough manner, and the bushes are not iu too
bad a condition, the disease can be practically
eradicated by the autumn, but no half methods
will accomplish this end. If the bushes are in a
debilitated condition, a good mulching of
manure, as advised in a previous Calendar, will
help them.

Suckers. — Remove these from the base of any
tree from w-hich they may be growing, cutting
them away as low down below the soil as
possible.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey. Notts.

Brussels' Sprcuts. — This vegetable, being of
the first importance for winter supply, it by
any chance the first crop has failed, every effort
should be made to make good the loss, either
by sowing seeds again in boxes or by buying
plants. Do not have the soil very rich, but
plant firmly, placing the plants "JJ feet each
wa_v from each other. If any old plants which
.are now exhausted are still in the ground, clear
them away at once, and prepare the soil for
another crop by applying a liberal quantity of
manure, and digging it over. ■■,

C/iives should be cut over at regular intervals,
that the produce may be as tender as possible
for use in the salad bowl. Divide up any old
surplus plants to increase the stock and obtain
vigorous growth. Such plants should be put
out in lines drawn at 12 inches apart, allowing
9 inches between each plant in the line. A
shady position is best for plants required to
yield a supply late in the season.

Endive. — .-Mthough full early for the general
crop, a small sowing of seed should nov/ bo
made of both the Batavian and Fern-leaved
varieties. Afford this crop plenty of water t'>
prevent the plants running to seed, as the
Fern-leaved variety is apt to do at this early
season. Sow the seeds in an ordinary seed bed,
and transplant subsequently as is done with
Lettuces.

Ko/il Fail. — When used .quite young, this
vegetable affords an excellent and useful
change. The plants need to be treated in the
same way that C:ibbage3 ara cultivated. Make
several small sowings at intervals from the pre-
sent time to obtae'i a long succession. ^ ■

Seakale. — The young growths proceeding from
the crown of the cutting recently planted will
require thinning so as to leave one to each
plant. Encourage them to grow quickly by
applying nitrate of soda, which may be hoed
into the soil. As this fertiliser requires warm
weather before the plants can make full use of
it, good results should be noticed in the near
future. Where .Seakale is being blanched in the
permanent growing quarter, see that the blanch,
ing material is made secure to prevent birds
scratching it about. A good depth of leaf-mould
should be kept constantly on the plants ; the
smallest amount of light or an excess of air
would soon ruin the crop.

Late Peas. — The latest varieties may now be
selected to give the desired succession, and those
that are as nearly as possible immune from
the attacks of mildew are those that should be
first considered. .-Autocrat stands in the front
rank of these, the Gladstc«ie also being first-rate.
Sutton's' Late Queen is of the Xe Plus Ultra
type, and one of the best. These varieties
having intensely green foliage, and being strong,
sturdy growers, are amongst the best to resist
mildew. Seeds of the French Sugar Pea should
be sown to afford variety, for it is a cho-ce dish
when well served.

Late Broccoli. — Where it is desirable to clear
the ground, and a few plants still remain unfit
for use, these may be lifted and placed behind
a north wall, where they will finish off in due
course, with the additional advantage of pro-
longing the season and joining hands with the
early supply of Cauliflowers. Late Queen and
Latest of All have been best out of many late
maturing varieties grown here.

29e

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, 1000.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
USHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Qarden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Comimmications should be written on one side onlv of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. 1/ desired, the sigmture mill not be
piintcd, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor doesnot
imdertakc to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communicatioJis or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
lesponsible for a:iy opinions expressed by his correspondents.
'Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive aiulto select
photographs or draifings, suitable far reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but lie
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
caiefullo mark the paragraphs they tfish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor earh intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURD.W, May 12 Dutch Gardeners' Sec. meets.

,, ,, I United Hort. Ben. and Prov. See.
MOND.W, MayUj com. meets.

( Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meets.
TUESD.^Y, May 16 ) British Gardeners' Association

[ Executive Council, 4 p.m.

^„ . ,, ., ,,. ( Roy. Bot. Soc. Show at Regent's
WEDNESDAY, May IB J p'^j.^.^

Average Temperature tor the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 64-ii .

'Actual Temperatures 1 —

1.0S-O0S.— Wednesday, May 9 (6 p.m.): Mas. G2° ; Min.
49°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— T/iiiisita:)', May 10
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.9; Temp., 60'; neather—
Dull, with slight rain.
PROVlNCES.-HcrfnMrfa^', May 9 (6 p.m.): Max. ST
South-east England; Min. 49° Ireland, north-
west.

SALES.

MOND.\Y— ..^ T> ■

Freehold Fruit Farm and Market Garden, with Resi-
dence, foreman's House, 3 Cottages, 34 Vineries and
greenhouses, and buildings, area about 24 acres ; also b
Icres Meadow and Woodland, situate at Wrotham, Rent,
by Protheroe & Morris, at the Mart, Tokenhouse Yard,
E.G., atl.

WEDNESDAY—

Begonias, Gloxinias, Gladiolus Pinks, Carnations,
Palms, Plants, Ferns. &c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C.,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

FRIDAY- , ,. , ,

Cattleya, La;lia and L. Cattleyas Hybrids, Established
Orchids in variety. Imported Dendrobes, &c., at 1)7 *: t)»,
Cheapside, B.C., by Protheroe & Morns, at 12.45.

Is it really undesirable for us to
Balance in admire a flower unless its sev-
Floweps. eral parts bear an exact rela-
tive proportion to each other,
and conform e.xactly to the artificial standards
laid down by the florists? This question was
raised again recently at the dinner which
followed the Midland Daffodil Society's
show at Birmingham. Mr. W. Pope read a
paper in which references were made to the
" Big " Daffodil. He stated that there had
been no exact standard laid down by the
florists as to what a Daffodil flower should
be— such as is followed in the case of Car-
nations, Auriculas, and other flowers — but he
believed that some standard was called for
which would be a guide alike to raisers, ex-
hibitors, and judges. Apart, however, from
these florists' varieties, there was a market
for the largest flowered Daffodils, which, as
they invariably appealed to the public, were
consequently of profit to the cultivator.

A subsequent speaker, whose knowledge of

Daffodils is only equalled by his skill in

growing them, turned the discussion from

.the question of mere size to one of propor-

tion in flowers. He pleaded for an appre-
ciation of symmetry in the different parts of
the Daffodil flower, and for the rejection of
all those in which there was a higher de-
gree of development in the perianth than in
the trumpet, or in the trumpet than in the
perianth. He described as inferior a flower in
which one's attention is first excited by this
feature or that. The flower should be of a
character that will appeal to the artist as a
whole, and as a well-balanced flower. The fine
perianth in such a case does not appear to
be specially large, because it is equalled by
the development of the trumpet : nor the
trumpet seem excessive, owing to the bal-
ance afforded by the perianth.

But the question might be asked, what is
the proper balance? How can there be only
one balance in such varying flowers as Daffo-
dils ! Strict proportion might be attained in a
case where the cup or trumpet was exactly of
the required length to touch an imaginary
half circle drawn from the extremity of the
perianth segments on one side to the extremity
of those On the other. But if this alone is a
well-balanced flower, then all the varieties of
the Poeticus type, and many of the trumpet
Daffodils are ill-balanced. If, instead of
this, another rule were to be adopted re-
quiring the trumpet to be as long and no
longer than the perianth segments, such a
rule could only apply to the Magni coronati
Daffodils. The question of what is balance
and proportion in a "cup" Daffodil would
still remain to be settled. It might also be
urged that if the proper jjalance is seen in
such a trumpet Daffodil as we have described,
how can there be any satisfactory balance at
all in the true Narcissus poeticus, which has
a shallow crown in place of the trumpet (but
with well-developed perianth), any more than
in N. Bulbocodium, where the " hoop petti-
coat " is abnormally developed at the expense
of the perianth?

It appears to us that such balance and re-
gularity as were advocated can only be found
in flowers that are more or less reduced to a
condition lacking in individuality, and there-
fore of interest, and that in any case the
" standard " cannot be the same for all the
sections of the genus.

Florists are, of course, entitled to their
point of view, but we must not be so
far led away by their ideals as to be
unable to look at a flower from a dif-
ferent standpoint. The naturalist is ever
on the look-out for development, and he may
like this flower because it shows the greatest
development that has yet occurred in rcsjiect
to one part, and another flower because it
illustrates exactly the same of another part.
From the point of view of beauty alone, it
is frequently the case that irregular flowers,
or ill-balanced flowers, as our friends wouk'
call them, are among the most charming.
Consider, for instance, a collection of Or-
chids, how attractive are their various, almost
endless, forms — and yet, how irregular, and
ill-balanced as in the Selenipediums ; how
wonderfully the same purpose is attained by
widely different forination ! How wondrously
the lip is developed in this Cattleya, or Onci-
dium, and how insignificant appear the petals
and sepals. Nevertheless, we admire the
flo-ft'er especially for its magnificent labellum,
and are content that the plant has specialised
its effort in a particular direction, and has
thus become less commonplace than it would
otherwise have been.

There is another matter to be borne in
mind in connection with the selection of

varieties that conform to th'C rule of thumb
type, for it often leads to the rejection and,
we fear, destruction also, of the others. In
this way we are liable to throw away much
of the gain tfiat should follow the work of
the cross breeders. Varieties of Chrysan-
ihemums, Daffodils, and other flowers, alsc
of fruits, which have been raised from seeds,
are frequently destroyed in large numbers,
an instance of which was referred to on page
J64, because on their first trial their char-
acteristics have been judged to be inferior.
But what potential qualities many of them
may possess is shown by the Mendelian ex-
periments, which go to illustrate in how many
instances variati-ms may, nay, even must,
occur that, being encouraged, would eventu-
ally prove of great importance, even from the
commercial point of view !

But to return to the Daffodils : if such a
standard of merit were ever to be imposed,
it would be imperative, as we have said, that
a different standard should be drawn up for
the different groups, and in that case they
might be made practicable for the groups as
groups. But how would even these suflice
when Mr. Engleheart and others have, by
their hybrids, linked up the sections until
there is evcrv degree of development from
the Crown to the Cup, and from the Cup to
the Trumpet Daffodils?

The larger groups may be differentiated one
from the other even in the case of many of
the crosses by the shape and proportion of
the perianth-tube which intervenes between
the ovary and the perianth-segments. On
this point we may have more to say on a
future occasion.

Our Supplementary Illustration. —

Kalanchoe Dyeri is a species from British Cen-
tral Africa, and was first described by Mr. Brown
in the Gardeners' Chronicle for June 4, 19Ci, p. 354.
It was sent to Kevv in 1902 from Nyassaland, and
flowered there last summer. K. Dyeri is allied to
K. Somaliensis, and is one of the finest species yet
known, as will be seen from the illustration, which
has been drawn by Mr. Worthingtom Smith
from specimens kindly supplied by Messrs. Jas.
Veitch & Sons, Ltd. The plants appear to grow
2\ feet high, or even higher, and produce large
corymbose cymes of pure white flowers, and
spreading elliptic leaves 6 inches or more long,
and 5 inches broad. For a detailed description
of this fine species our readers may refer to the
previous issue already cited.

Royal Horticultural Society. — The next
meeting of committees will be held on Tuesday,
May 15, in the Society's Hall, Vincent Square,
Westminster. A lecture on "Flower Gardens in
the United States ' ' will be given by Professor
CORBETT, at 3 o'clock.

Kew Guild Dinner. — We are requested to
remind our readers who are Old Kewites that the
annual dinner will take place at the Holborn
Restaurant on the 28th inst., at 7.30 p.m., and
that the Secretary, Mr. W. N. Winn, would be
glad to hear before the 21st from all who intend to
be present.

Kew Bulletin. — There are welcome signs,
not only that steps are being taken to make up for
the delay in the publication of the volumes for
preceding years, but also for the due issue of the
parts for the current year. No. 3, for 1906, has
lately been issued containing articles or the
diseases of Beet and Mangold, by Mr. Massee,
on the Botanical Institutions of Jamaica, together
with a number of descriptions of new plants,
many of them in cultivation, and a " decade " of
new Orchids.

May 12, -1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

207

Small Holdings. — The Departmental Com-
•mittee appointed by the President of the Board
of Agriculture and Fisheries, to inquire into the
subject of small holdings, held a sitting on the 3rd
inst. Evidence was given by Mr. E. W. Staf-
ford Howard, C.B., H.M. Commissioner of
Woods and Forests, and Mr. H. M. Jonas, F.S.I.,
Cambridge.

Botanical Magazine. — The plants figured
and described in the May number are : —

LiLiuM Duchartrei, Franchet ; tab. 8,072. — A
native of Western and Central China, with scattered ,
linear-lanceolate leaves, spotted stems and many-
flowered panicles ; each flower is mounted on a long
stalk, recurved at the apex. The perianth is about
3 inches across, with strongly recurved oblong
lanceolate segments, white with purple dots on
the inner surface, and with a broad violet stripe
on the dorsal surface. The bulbs were collected
by Mr. E. H. Wilson for Messrs, James Veitch
& Sons, at Ta Chiea Lu, and flowered at Kew.

Primula Cockburniana, Hemsky ; tab. 8,073,
• — This is a very remarkable species collected for
Messrs. James Veitch cS: Sons, at Ta Chien Lu,
and figured in our columns 190-5, i., p. 345,
fig. 137. It differs from all known species in the
peculiar orange colour of its flowers.

LiSTROSTACHYS HAMATA, Rolfc ) tab. 8,074. —
An Orchid from tropical West Africa, with erect
stems, lanceolate, recurved leaves, sheathing at the
base and drooping racemes of white flowers.
Perianth, including the spur, about 2J inches long,
segments linear, lanceolate white, lip nearly of the
same form, but with a long green spur hooked at
the end. It flowered at Kew, to which garden
it was introduced from Lagos by Mrs. W. T.
Martin,

Genista dalmatica,Bi!W//h^; Kew, tab. 8, 075. —
Alow growing, rigid, tufted shrub with spiny, hairy
branches dividing into branclilets, which resemble
pinnate leaves ; flowers yellow in dense terminal
racemes. It is a native of the Balkan Peninsula.
Euphorbia lophogona, Lamarck; Kew, tab.
S,076. — A curious succulent Euphorbia, with erect
angular stems, marked with circular leaf scars,
and provided at the angles with projecting lacerate
processes (persistent stipules). The leaves are
sessile, lanceolate recurved, the flowers ; sur-
rounded by rose-coloured bracts, have the usual
structure of those of the genus. Native of Mada-
gascar.

Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society.
— The first part of the nineteenth volume has
reached us. Its contents are too numerous and
too varied to permit us to do more than mention
them. They are mostly of a practical character,
and some of them are similar to those which have
appeared in the Transactions of the Royal English
Society, a fact that is suggestive of the propriety
of an amalgamation between the two societies.
Mr. Elwes contributes a note on some Japanese
and North .American trees suitable for growing in
British woodlands, and Dr. Schlich has reprinted
-his working plans for Alice Holt forest in Hamp-
shire, together with a map of the plantations.

Irish Gardening. — We are pleased to find
this newly-established monthly periodical main-
taining its high character. The May number has
a coloured illustration of the American Goose-
berry Mildew, with a descriptive article by Prof.
T. Johnson, the director of the Seed-testing and
Plant Disease Station for Ireland. Mr. F. Moore
contributes a serviceable note on the species and
varieties of Rhododendron.

The Udo Salad Plant. — The catalogue of
the Yokohama Nursery Company has illustrations
of a species of Aralia A. cordata wliich is exten-
sively cultivated in Japan. The young and tender
stalks are eaten as a vegetable, and the full grown
f)lant is 5 to 6 feet in height, and of an ornamental
-character.

The Flora Brasiliensis has been brought
to a successful conclusion, and deserves to rank as
one of the wonders of the book-world. This
great work was begun in 1840 by von Martius,
continued by Eichler from 1869 to 1886, and has
been edited since 1887 by Professor Urban, sub-
director of the Royal Botanic Garden and Museum
of Berlin. The Flora consists of 40 folio volumes
and no fewer than 3,811 full-sized plates. The
introduction, contributed by Professor Urban,
would, by itself, fill an octavo volume. In it he
gives the biographies of 137 botanists and travellers
who have worked in Brazil, and describes their
various routes. He includes biographical notices
of his coadjutors, with outlines of their principal
works, an enumeration of the monographs com-
prised in the book according to their chronological
order, and a catalogue of the families dealt with,
and countless statistical notes. From these notes
we learn that no fewer than 2,253 genera (of which
160 are described for the first time), 22,767 species
(5,689 being new) are treated. The families con-
taining the greatest number of species are Orchid-
acea;, Compositacese, Leguminosae, Myrtace^e,
Melastomaceee, Rubiacea;, Euphorbiaceae, and
Graminacea:, the Erst with 1,455 and the last with
682 species. The 65 coadjutors, of whom 23 are
still living, are for the most part German (38), the
rest being apportioned as follows : — .Austrian seven,
Swiss five; English five, including the late Mr.
Bentham, a. Bennett, and Mr. J. G. Baker and
Dr. Masters ; French four ; Belgium two ; Danish
two ; Dutch one ; and Hungarian one. Of these,
the greatest share of the work has fallen to
Professor CoGNiAUX, of Belgium, who deals with
Melastomacea;, Cucurbitacea;, and Orchidacea?.
The greatest thanks are due to the Brazilian
Government for the support it has given to this
monumental work, to the voN Martius family,
and to Dr. Urban for the zeal with which he and
his collaborators have worked to bring the great
task to completion.

Sale of Gardening Books. — At the four
days' sale last week at Messrs. Sotheby's of
books and munuscripts from the libraries of the
Hon. Mrs. Skeffington Smyth and others, the
f jllowing were amongst the works disposed of :—
Sowerby's " English Botany, or coloured figures
of British Plants, &c.," Vols. I. to XXV., 1790-
1807, Index to 36 Vols, to 1814, and Supplement
by Professor W. J. Hooker, 1831-34, with numer-
ous plates, ;^20 (Quaritch) ; John Gerarde's
•■The Herball, or Generall Historie of Plants,"
enlarged and amended by Thomas Johnson,
numerous woodcuts, 1633, £1 15s. (Edwards) ;
W. CuRTis's "The Botanical Magazine, or
Flower Garden Displayed," from the commence-
ment in 1793, and general index, 112 volumes
with several thousand coloured plates, /51
(Quaritch); "The Profitable Art of Garden-
ing, now the third time set forth, whereunto is
newly added a treatise on the Art of Graffmg and
Plantingof Trees," by Thomas Hyll, black letter,
a large and sound copy, bound in calf-gilt,
published by H. Bynneman in 1579, /8 15s.
(Sotheran) ; "A New Herball, wherein are con-
teyned the names of Herbes in Greke, Latin,
Englysh, Duch, Frenche, and in the Potecaries
and Herbaries Latin," by Wylliam Turner, black
letter, numerous woodcuts, published in 1551 by
Steven Mierdman, £& 15s. (Bore).

Large Single Chrysanthemums. — We
recently published (see p. 229) an article on
this subject from M. Foukouba, head gardener
to the Emperor of Japan. In the April number
of the Chrysanthime, we find a similar article,
with illustrations from photographs which did
not reach us. One shows the flowers exhibited
apparently on cardboard collars — horrors that
we hoped were confined to Carnations. Our
good friends the Japanese, with their native
artistic feeling, should not copy our foibles.

HoRTUS Veitchii. — In noticing this most note-
worthy book we incidentally stated that (unless
we had overlooked the references) the Manual of
Orchidaceous Plants was not mentioned. We now
find that we had overlooked the references.
A new edition of the manual, rearranged and
brought up to date would be a boon.

Province of Manitoba. — Official and authori-
tative pamphlets setting forth the advantages
offered to the settler have been received from the
Department of Agriculture and Immigration.
Manitoba is described as the greatest Wheat mart
in the whole world, and as capable of affording
comfortable and luxurious homes to the teeming
millions of the sons of toil struggling for existence
in the crowded districts of the East. This is rather
high-flown language, but we believe it to be sub-
stantially true. The office of the Department is at
Winnipeg.

South-Eastern Agricultural College.
— A meeting of the Governors of the South-
Eastern Agricultural College (University of
London) was held at Wye, on Friday last. Lord
Ashcombe, chairman, presiding. The Principal
(Mr. M. J.R. Dunstan) reported that 101 students
were attending the college. Mr. W. P. Wright,
Kent County Horticultural Instructor, was ap-
pointed Superintendent and Lecturer of the Horti-
cultural Department, for which a definite course is
to be established. Five students from the college
have passed the P.A.S.I. examination, and two old
students passed the qualifying examination for the
Fellowship.

Primula Greenwood Pim (see fig. 115, p.
276). — Mr. Smith, of NewTy, writes us as follows :
— " The Primrose sent you did not originate here,
but was found growing wild by Mr. Greenwood
Pim, and sent here to be nursed. The position of
the stamens and style would lead to the possibility
of self-fertilisation, but all the seedlings from it so
far have been simple reversions to the type."

Trade Commissions. — We have sins enough
of our own in this direction to answer for, but if
we may believe the statement made in a letter
from New York, things are no better, or even worse,
in the United States, where, in some quarters, it is
alleged that a system of "grafting" is practised.
The "graft" is a secret commission, said to be
paid by some of the less honourable dealers to
dishonest gardeners, who are induced to buy more
commodities than are really requisite, or em-
ployers are charged for them at a higher rate
than is equitable, the surplus, paid by the con-
sumer, being divided between the gardener and
the dealer.

The National Tulip Society (South-
ern Section) has this year extended its schedule
to embrace Tulip flowers of other than the
florist's varieties. They are offering prizes for
Darwin and garden Tulips shown in vases, also
for a group of any variety arranged for effect.
The Gold and Silver Medals of the Royal Botanic
Society will be awarded for the best trade exhibits.
It is hoped that this arrangement will have the
effect of bringing together all lovers of the genus
Tulipa, and that amateurs and the trade also may
combine for its success.

" La Tribune Horticole." — Under this title
a new horticultural publication is to be issued
weekly under the management of the energetic
M. Louis Gentil. The project has the support
of most of the principal horticulturists and botan-
ists of Belgium, and will be the official organ of
the two horticultural societies of Brussels, the
SociitS Royale Linneenne and the Societe Royale
de Flore. It will be illustrated and the text
w'ill be of a high-class, wholly independent of
trade interests. The first number will be pub-
lished at the end of June. We shall await the
coming of the new venture with sympathetic
interest.

298

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, 1906.

Forcing by Ether. — Professor Johannsen,
of Copenhagen, tells us that the success of his
book on forcing by means of ether has surpassed
all his expectations, thanks in great measure due
to the attention paid to the matter by French
and other practical cultivators. Mr. A. Maumene
has done much in putting his theories into
practice, and has brought out a French edition
enriched by many notes. Professor Johannsen's
"little discovery" has been made more widely
known also by various botanists, and he acknow-
ledges with thanks the literary support of Messrs.
Behrens, Detmer, Eriksson, Errera, Goebel,
Masters, de Vries, and others. The first
edition being now out of print, and a new one
demanded. Professor Johannsen could but reprint
the first edition exactly. Any developments that
have been recently made in the matter and the
experiences of practical gardeners have been em-
bodied in an appendix, which contains also further
theoretical observations on "rest-periods," and
the regulating and manipulation of the apparatus.
The detailed scientific discoveries of Professor
Johannsen have not yet been fully published, but
only a part of them in the Danish language. A
list of the literature relating to the subject is
included in the appendix. Extensive experiments
on the matter of heredity, which were begun at
the same time as the researches on the "rest
periods," have lately claimed nearly all Professor
Johannsen's available time. This work cannot
be interrupted, but Professor Johannsen hopes to
proceed with his literary duties when his term at
the University of Copenhagen shall have expired.
He apologises for not having replied to all the
letters and questions relating to the ether experi-
ments that he has received from his own and from
foreign countries.

CaSSELL'S DiCTiONARY OF GARDENING. — It

is a bold thing to publish a new dictionary of
practical gardening, but Mr.' Walter Wright
has shown that he is equal, to the task. His
encyclopedia, of which a new issue is now ap-
pearing, "caters neither for the scientist nor the
dilettante, but merely for the cultivator." He
omits, nevertheless, many items which are of
concern to many cultivators. In the matter of
nomenclature, he very prudently takes the Index
Kewensis as his standard. Wisely, as we think,
he retains names established by customary use in
gardens and does not enter upon the intricacies of
botanical nomenclature, which is of necessity
subject to frequent modification as knowledge
increases. But it is not necessary to hurl an ' ' array
of ponderous tomes ' ' at any one who has the
misfortune to prefer a different system from that
which the author adopts. For instance, we hope
we shall not expose ourselves to a shower of such
missiles if we point out that the species of Abies
are not now called Sprdce Firs. The work is
beautifully "got up," copiously illustrated, and
well suited for the requirements of the average
amateur.

The Garden Magazine is one of the newer
American horticultural papers, and is well got
up and profusely illustrated. Its contents are
very varied and well edited. In the April number
is a well illustrated article on flowering shrubs by
Leonard Barron, the son of " Barron of Chis-
wick." Another article is contributed on cook-
ing Potatos by Mrs. Barron. We do not know
how it may be in the States, but certainly in
London restaurants, even those of repute, we
seldom find a well-cooked Potato, or for the matter
of that any vegetable.

Eremurus Aucherianus. — Madame Fedts-
CHENKO, of the St. Petersburg Botanic Garden,
has made a critical study of the genus Eremurus,
and shows among other things that there is really
no such plant as E. Aucherianus, what it so named
consisting of the leaves of E. spectabilis accidentally
mixed with the inflorescence of E. persicus.

SoLANUM CoMMERSONl. — In La Revue for
April, M. Gaston Bonnier, of the Academy of
Sciences, has an article in which he summarises
the history of the Potato and its introduction into
Europe. He goes on to note the fact that M.
Labergerie has, as previously noted in these
columns, discovered a variety suitable for culture
in damp places where ordinary potatos do not
thrive. This is the Solanum Commersoni, of which
so much has lately been written. This was intro-
duced to the Botanical Garden, Marseilles, whence
M. Labergerie obtained his tubers. One of the
plants cultivated by M. Labergerie, it is said,
underwent sudden " mutation," and produced two
large violet coloured tubers, which were consumed
by the grower. Six small tubers from the same
plant, however, remained. These were cultivated
in the course of two seasons, 1903 and 1904. lost all
trace of bitterness, and became, as M. Bonnier
himself testifies, good Potatos. Assuming the cor-
rectness of these statements— and M. Bonnier is a
witness on whose testimony full reliance may be
placed — the origin of the Potato, previously a matter
of doubt, is rendered clear. The new variety, if we
may call it new, is very productive, grows in damp
places, and resists the attacks of the Potato fungus
(Phytophthora). Among the many variations ob-
served, is one which has given rise to much com-
ment, and which is so like Giant Blue that it has
been considered identical. M. Bonnier, however,
tells us that, in his experimental garden on dry soil
at Fontainebleau, the two varieties — that of M.
Labergerie and Blue Giant — are quite distinct. In
1905 M. Labergerie observed among his experi-
ment plots specimens exhibiting a return to the
primitive type of Commersoni, whilst Blue Giant
remained constant or nearly so. In considering
the evidence brought forward, it must be remem-
bered that (if we read the facts correctly) the two
original tubers which were so like Blue Giant
were consumed and not re-planted. There is no
reason whatever to doubt the good faith of any-
one concerned, but the origin of these two big
tubers is not so absolutely proven as to exclude
the possibility of error. That subsequent tubers
were the direct descendants from Solanum Com-
mersoni seems beyond dispute, and this being so,
M. Labergerie may in any case claim to have
made a scientific discovery of great importance
and to have achieved cultural results of high value.

"On Puddleton Quay." — On the evening of
May 3 the " Hurst & Son " Musical Society gave
a performance in the Cripplegate Institute, E.C.,
of a musical play entitled " On Puddleton Quay,"
which has been written and composed by Mr.
Edward Sherwood. The proceeds were in aid
of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution
and the Corn E.xchange Benevolent Institution.
We were pleased to see a good company present
to support these charities, and are sure that any of
our readers who may have been there would be
surprised to learn that in horticultural circles we
possess such a distinguished musician as Mr.
Edward Sherwood, who bears a name which has
always been closely connected with the horti-
cultural charities. The " Hurst & Son " Musical
Society deserve praise for their excellent repre-
sentation of this pretty play.

American Tree Carnations. — Some corre-
spondents draw our attention to the fact that an
advertiser giving his address at Loudonville,
Albany County, New York, offered for sale Tree
Carnations at 25s. per 100. Orders were sent and
the money forwarded, but up to the present time
no Carnations have been received. We accept no
responsibility for what appears in our advertising
columns, though great care is exercised in ex-
cluding advertisements that the publisher has
reason to think objectionable. In the present
case, unless some satisfactory explanation be forth-
coming, no advertisement will in future be accepted
from this firm.

Calla Elliottiana. — Double-spathed forms
of the common Richardia africana are very fre-
quently met with, and similar deviations from the
rule may, of course, be expected in any Aroid.
Lately one of our correspondents kindly sent
us a specimen of this plant in which the scape
or flower stalk, usually leafless, in addition to
the ordinary brilliant yellow spathe, bore at
the top a large leaf of the usual form much
larger than the spathe, green at the base and
sprinkled with white spots, while the whole of the
upper part of the leaf was golden yellow like the
spathe. In a second specimen, the scape or
flower-stalk bore a large leaf, half green above,
brilliant yellow in its lower portion, which partly,
encircled the true spathe. This latter was ir-
regularly lobed and deeply divided, part green,
part yellow. Common as these deviations are, no-
body seems to care to perpetuate and improve
them, which is the more remarkable as, with a
little patience, a very handsome form could be
perpetuated.

Midland Reafforesting Association.—
The report of this association, which has now
completed its third year, states that there are in
the district 30,000 acres of useless land which
could be planted and made pleasant to look upon.
The area, however, at present available for the
operations of the association is about 14,000 acres.
.Altogether the association has planted 43 acres,
and 70,630 trees have been used. About 37 acres
have been laid out since last April. The associa-
tion now numbers 250 subscribers, an increase of
100 on last year. Lord Lichfield has agreed to let
or lease at a nominal rent two acres of pit bank
at JJeepmore to be planted next season. A large
number of willow cuttings have been offered for
next season's work. In September last a circular
was issued asking for these cuttings, and among
the first to respond was the King, who ordered
20,000 to be forwarded from Windsor. Altogether
there are in stock for next season 23,918 trees and
35,500 cuttings.

"The Tatur Disees, • and other Essays. —

The late Dean Hole was wont to lament the
dulness of horticultural periodicals, and did much
to enliven them by the introduction of what are
known as "chestnuts." The present volume,
ostensibly written by Willyum Gubbins, but
actually by Mr. Chas. T. Druery, includes some
humorous and other articles, some of which have
already appeared in Amateur Gardening, and others
in the Gardeners' Magazine. Couched in phonetic
spelling and whimsical sentences are many useful
hints, and in this guise these may be more deeply
impressed upon some readers than they would be
if thrown into ordinary English. The subjects
dealt with are various, and include not merely
"Tatur Disees," but opinions upon cats as gar-
deners, the Temple Show, A.D. 2,000, A Wisly
Dream, &c. Through all is an amusing running
commentary on modern gardeners and gardening.
Mr. Druerv's many friends appreciate his
humour, enjoy his facetious utterances, and recog-
nise the fact that many a true word is spoken in
jest.

Societe Royale dAgriculture et de
Botanique de Gand. — We learn from the
pages of the Revue de I' Horticulture Beige, that
M. Alexis Callier has been appointed President
of the above society, in succession to the deeply-
lamented Count Oswald de Kerchove. M.
Callier is well-known as a Chrysanthemum
lover. Count Andre de Kerchove has been
elected a member of the society.

Parasitic Growths. --We are asked to state
that Professor Farmer, F.R.S., is very anxious
to obtain specimens ol Parasitic growths, as this
is a subject in which he is specially interested.
They should be forwarded to Claremont House,
Wimbledon Common, Surrey.

May 12, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

299

A Horticultural Exhibition is to be held
in connection with the Royal Counties Agricultural
Society's Show, at North End, Portsmouth, on
June 12, 13. 14 and 15. Mr. C. S. Fuidge,
Secretary of the Southampton Royal Horticultural
Society, is the Superintendent of the Flower Show,
to whom all enquiries should be addressed, at 6,
College Terrace, Southampton.

Publications Received,— TAe Garden City,
April. A record of continuous progress. — The Insti-
tute of Commercial Research in the Tropics, Liverpool
University. Quarterly journal, April, contains re-
ports by Dr. Eric Drabble and other writers upon
plants and insects forwarded for identification, and

articles that should prove acceptable to fruit-growers.
— Report of the Horticultural Department, Truro,
Nova Scotia. F. C. Sears, director. The principal
work undertaken was iu connection with orchard and
fruit trials, and the results obtained were very
satisfactory. — Ontario Department of Agriculture,
Agricultural College. Bulletin 148, Co-operative Ex-
periments with Nodide-fortning Bacteria, by F. C.
Harrison and B. Barlow. — Report of the Farmers'
Institutes of the Province of Ontario, 1905. Part I.
Farmers' Institutes. — U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Farmers' Bulletins. No. 243, Fungicides and their
use in preventing diseases of Fruits, by M. B. Waite.
—No. 248, The'Lawn, by L. C. Corbett.— No. 250,
Prevention of Stinking Smut of Wheat and Loose Smut
of Oats, Walter T. Swingle. — No. 253, Germination
of Seed Corn, J. W. T. Dtivel.

scales off in thin bright orange-coloured scales.
The resin canals are in the substance of the leaf.
The young leaves are thrust through the scales,
which form a sort of sheath at the base of the bud
[tubular deperulation, see Journ. Linn. Sac, Vol.
xxvii., p. 273]. The cones are of a violet colour.

Mr. Wilson, in litt, says that it occurs in the
wild country to the west of Tatien-lu flong. 102*^
and 103^. lat. 30). It forms entire forests between
12,000 and 14,000 feet, having the highest altitudinal
range of any Silver Fir, or indeed of any Coniferous
tree, in the district.

The timber is of good quality, and valued by

Fig. 121. — .\BIES SQUAMATA, MAST. SP. NOV.

Showing branch with detached scaly bark of a rich orange solour ;

foliage and violet-coloured cone, buds, shoots, leaves magnified 2 diaras.
Cone-scales with bract and seeds.

leaf-section magnified 10 diams.

upon the structure of Ramie plants, management of
Rubber plants, &c. — Proceedings of the Agri-Horticul-
tural Society of Madras, October to December, 1905.
Contents : The Rhea tibre industry. Agave fibres, and
Araucaria excelsa, the latter, a note, mentioming the
death of a fine plant 39 feet high and of proportionate
girth and about 60years old. Considering the adverse
conditions of the climate and soil, it had hitherto done
well. — From Ottawa. Evidence before the Select
Standing Committee on Agriculture and Colonisation,
1905. Fertilizers, Etisilage, Feeds, by Mr. Frank T.
Shutt. Fruit Culture and Potato Growing. Evidence
of Mr. W. T. Macoun. Division of Insects and Plants.
Lvidence of Dr. James Fletcher.-— University of
California Publications. College of Agriculture, Agri-
cultural Experimental Station: Tomato Diseases in
California, by Ralph E. Smith. — University of Illinois.
Agricultural Experiment Station. Bulletin, No. 105.
The Farmers' Vegetable Garden, by John W. Lloyd,
and Bulletin, No. 106. Spraying Apples : Relative
Merits of Liquid and Dust Applications, by Charles S.
Crandall. — Proceedings of the Western New York Horti-
cultural Sociefy. Reports the 51st annual meeting of
the Society, and mentions the practical value of this
book to any interested in fruit or in its cultivation.
Certainly fit contains some useful and illustrated

CHINESE CONIFERS.

ABIES SQUAMATA, Masters sp. n.*
This is one of the most remarkable of the many
new Conifers discovered by Mr. E. H. Wilson in
Western China. The tree is mentioned in Mr.
Wilson's article in the present number, p. 293,
and is specially noteworthy for its bark, which

• Abies souamat.\. Masters sp. nov. Arbor insignis
50-120 ped. Rami vetuli cortice tenui, in laminas papy-
raceas rubro-aurantiacas decorticantes, Ramuli novelli nigro-
hirsuti, cicatrices orbiculares pallidte. Folia dense spiraliter
disposita 16-20 mill, long., 2 mill. lat. linearia curvata acuta
vel obtusa superne sulcata subtus medio carinata. Canales
resiniferae medianae. Amenta stamenigera ad 25 mill. long.
cylindrata,anther£eoblongaeobtusje. Strobiliad 5-6 cent, long
oblongo-ovoidei, violacei. Bractea parum eminentes spatu-
lattB, superne serrulatas acuminatae, acumine recurvato cite
deciduo. Squamcs bracteis parum longiores transverse
oblongae convexiuscuJEB basi cuneatim angustatae. Semina
alata ala pallide fusca oblongo obovata.

China Occident, in silvis prope Tatien-Iu. (Wilson, 3019!)

the Tibetans for building purposes. The local
name is To-ma : our illustration, fig. 121, was
drawn by Mr. Worthington Smith from dried
specimens. The acuminate points to the bract
are scarcely shown in the drawing ; indeed, they
are so fragile that they speedily break off so as to
be no longer conspicuous.

NURSERY NOTES.

BAKER'S, CODSALL.
A RECENT call made at Messrs. Baker's nursery,
at Codsall, showed that considerable development
has been made in this new establishment since our
previous visit in August, 1901. The firm possesses
90 acres of good meadow-land in this village, and
in 1901 there were 45 acres under nursery stock.
In the meantime nine additional acres have been
brought into similar cultivation, making the total

IQO

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, 1906.

to 54 acres, and still leaving facilities for increasing
the area.

On entering the nursery by the main gates our
attention was attracted by the circular rock-garden
on the side of the nursery bounded by the road,
and therefore open to the public inspection. It
has been formed on the site of a pool which has
been drained of water for the purpose. Near by
this new rockery is the ground which is utilised
for the cultivation of Dahlias, Gladioli and other
bright flowering plants, therefore the view from
the roadway in tlie summer and autumn months is
one of rich floral colour. The propagation of
Dahlias for sale and for planting out in the nursery
was being brought to a conclusion, there being
many young plants at that time large enough for
distribution. Dahlias are treated quite as a
speciality by Messrs. Baker, and they propagate
something like 50,000 plants each season. Those

collection of winter flowering plants also. Roses
occupy a large share of the nurseries, and the
stock includes a very representative collection of
varieties. Of fruit trees the firm has already a
stock of 7,000 saleable trees that have been worked
on the place since its establishment. During the
past season 10,000 more fruit tree stocks have been
budded or grafted.

The stock of hardy flowering plants, including
Violas, Pansies, Auriculas, Sec, and an excellent
strain of Polyanthus, appeared to be very large.
Kniphofias are grown well, and all the varieties
in the collection are recommended as having
proved to be perfectly hardy in the district.
Early flowering Chrysanthemums for border
cultivation constitute a very e-xhaustive collection.
Messrs. Baker's business premises are in Lichfield
Street, Wolverhampton, and they have been fitted
up in an elaborate and efficient manner. For

Fic. 122.-

-CVTTLEYA SCIIKOEDER AI.L'A.

plants that are cultivated in the nursery for
supplying Dahlia flowers for exhibition, and for
increasing the stock of tubers, are planted at 5 feet
apart and treated to the most liberal culture.

Sweet Peas are cultivated with the same care as
Dahlias. An unusually large collection is grown,
the plants being raised in pots and transplanted
thinly, as is done under the very best cultivation.
Efforts are being made to raise new and superior
varieties of Dahlias, Sweet Peas and other plants.
A Sweet Pea sport, from the variety Countess
Spencer, that occurred in the nursery was named
Marie Baker ; but the same sport having also
arisen in Mr. Bolton's garden at Carnforth,
where it had been named Tom Bolton, the sport
has since been named Mrs. Charles Foster, under
which name a certificate "'as awarded it at the last
Wolverh^,mpton show.

Carnati.jns are grown in large numbers, especially
the border varieties, but it is intended to make a

supplying these shops with saleable produce a large
number of glass-houses at the nursery are devoted
in which Tomatos, Ferns, Pelargoniums, and
other plants are cultivated in the manner they are
in an up-to-date market establishment. Mr. T. G.
Baker has two sons in the business, one at the seed
shop and another at the nursery, and Mr. Kerr is
the general manager at the nursery.

CATTLEYA SCHROEDER ALBA.

Our illustration (fig. 1'2'2) is taken from a photo-
graph of a plant of Cattleya Schroeder alba,
flowered by Mr. Pelken, Tenuta de Boscobello,
Florence, and of which flowers were also sent,
the blooms being pure white with orange disc
to the lip. On first opening, the flowers of a good
number of ordinary Cattleya Schroeder appear
to be white, but afterwards assume a pale lilac
tint. The flowers sent were mature, and conse-
quently they were of true C. Schroeder alba.

NEW INVENTIONS.

THE LITTLE GRIPPER.
The implement shown in fig. 12.3 is not intended
for the everyday gardener, but may be a useful
tool for the amateur and suburban gardener in
removing weeds and litter from the flower border
or the lawn, or for gathering flowers and fruits

LITTLE CRIPPER

Fig. 123.

without treading upon the beds. It is also recom-
mended for pruning, but the cut it makes is too
much in the nature of a bruise to be used for that
purpose. It can be adapted as a walking stick, and
to pick up litters. The knob, by the lever, adjusts
the opening of the jaws. The maker is Mr. A. C.
Harris, 42, Howard Road, Leicester.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

KOCHIA TRICHOPHYLLA.

Our attention has been called to the note
"Another Ornamental Kochia " in your valued
journal of March 3, which we overlooked on
account of pressure of business.

One of the same plants as those grown under
the name of " Kochia sooparia," at Swanley,.
Hampton Court, Victoria Park, &c., was sent to
us by Mr. W. Atlee Burpee, of Philadelphia, in
the autumn of 1903, and knowing this to be very
different from the old well-known plant " Kochiai
sooparia," we transmitted the specimen received,
.from Mr. Burpee to the Director of the Royal.
Botanic Gardens, Kew, asking him to give us the-
correct name.

On Nov. 13, 1903, we received the following,
answer: "The Director of the Royal Botanic
Gardens, presents his compliments to Messrs.
Haage & Schmidt, and begs to inform them that the
plant received for identification is ' Kochia tricho-
phila,' Stapf n. sp. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,.
Nov. 11, 1903." Hciage S- Schmidt.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Packing Seeds for the Tropics. — The
following extracts are from a letter from Mr. D.
Tannock, Superintendent of Parks and Gardens in
Diinedin, New Zealand. It goes to show that
seeds packed in canvas or paper bags in the
ordinary way may be sent a long way overseas
through the tropics without appreciable harm.
Of course, the preservation of seeds of temperate
plants in a moist tropical country is a question
outside the enquiry as to the best method of
packing seeds for despatch to such countries. I
take it that all such seeds should be sown as soon
as possible after arrival in the tropics. " Dear
Mr. Watson ; — With reference to sending seeds
in paper bags I can state that your seeds come
up well, even though they have to be kept some
time before sowing. The annuals sent last year
germinated splendidly after being kept four months.
Our seeds are ripening now, and I will forward
those you desired and others as soon as ready."
IF. Watson.

Oestrum Smithm. — I note Mr. Ward's re-
marks (see p. 276), and am wondering whether
anyone m the warmer counties has succeeded in
flowering this plant out of doors. Some three
years since I set out a plant against a warm wall
in a very sheltei'ed corner, and having a south-east
aspect, where Solanum crispum, Rhyncospermum
jasminoides, Louicera sempervirens, and Aloysia
citriodora grow and flower freely, but up to the
present the Cestrum has shown no flower, though
it has withstood 14° of frost without suffering
the least injury to the well-ripened wood. Should
this note catch the eye of Mr. Fitzherbert no-
doubt he will tell us whether he has ever found
this plant flowering in the open, in this or the'
adjoining county of Cornwall, J . Miiync, Bictoil.

May 12, 1806.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

801

Bulbous Irises. — I venture to ask for in-
formation as to whether the under-mentioned
suggestion for growing such difficult Irises as Iris
reticulata and the rest of this section appears
to those interested in their culture to be in the
right direction. That I. reticulata can be grown
and successfully establislied in England appears
to be an undoubted fact, as there is one garden, I
beUeve, where it grows so luxuriantly that clumps
are from time to time lifted and sold. If this
is the case, even in one locality, we have to face
a very different problem from that presented in the
case of the Oncocyclus Irises, which refuse to
grow well anywhere in England. My theory is,
therefore, that the question is one of soil compo-
sition, which Dr. Voelcker, the eminent agri-
cultural chemist, is ready to try and elucidate.
Given a proper situation, &c., and as perfect
a ripening during summer as is possible, which is
after all only a question of degree (no attempt
being made to lift the bulbs), I believe that if the
right chemical soil and position could be dis-
covered that most of the difliculties in growing these
Irises would vanish. Any confirmation of my
theory would be gratefully accepted. Bmil Lcvctl,
Wychnor Paiii, Burton-on-Trcnt.

Injury to Strawberry Fruits. — We have
had Strawberries mjured by the ordinary house
mouse in a similar manner to that described on
p. 2S3. The mouse appears to prefer the seeds
where they approach the stage of maturity to the
pulp of the receptacle. I have also known the
squirrel to take the kernel-stone of the Peach and
reject its flesh. T. Coomber, Hendre Gardens, Mon-
mouth .

I have no hesitation in stating that mice

are responsible for the injury done to F. W.'s
Strawberries (see p. 283). I could also have ssnt
you the produce of one plant, the fruit of which
has been damaged by having the seed or " pips "
picked out by the mice. No doubt more would have
met with a similar fate were it not that cats have
the run of the fruit-houses here. F. W. may find
some of the seeds or traces of them on the stage
or shelf on which the pots are standing. IF. P.
R., Preston.

1 think there can be no doubt but mice are

responsible for the disfigurement of the ripe fruits
In our case they tackled the swelling fruits early in
February before they began to colour, nibbling off
the "pips" in a wholesale manner, but, as you say,
not eating the fruit itself. Only this week they have
served quite one hundred ripe and ripening fruits in
a similar manner, compelling us to remove all the
plants to a suspended shelf in the early Peach house.
I advise F. W. to do the same, as the mice, if not
caught, will continue to molest them as long
as there is any fruit about. Ours were stood on
a shelf at the front of the early vinery, and
although the Grapes are ripe I can find no evidence
of mice attacking the berries. Where mice abound
in the open garden I have frequently remarked
that Strawberry fruits have been denuded of the
"pips." J. Mayne, Bicton,. [Other correspondents
have written us to the same effect. — Ed.]

Senecio Petasites. — In alluding to this plant
1 few weeks ago the writer of the note stated that
it was not often met with in gardens. Under glass
it is doubtless not a popular plant, but in the
south-west where this native of Mexico will
flourish in the open air it is not uncommon. In
Mr. Howard Fo.x's garden at Rosehill, Falmouth,
there is a fifty-year-old plant which is 12 feet in
height and as much through. This practically
flowers through the entire winter and early spring.
Flower-sprays were exhibited at the Cornwall
Daffodil Society's show at Truro on April 3. A
itill handsomer Senecio is S. grandifolms, which
,s also grown in Cornwall. This produces
enormous heads of tightly-packed yellow flowers,
sometimes IS inches or more across. This was at
its best in March, its blossoms being faded at the
date of show. S. \V . Fitzhcrbert.

Early Sweet Peas. — Enclosed I send a few
Sweet Peas, which I thought may interest you,
IS they are somewhat early for this part of the
country. They were sown in .boxes about 3 feet
long and 6 inches deep in September last, and the
seed boxes were left outside until the weather
became cold. I then placed them on the floor of
a cool Peach house, and early in January trans-
ferred them to larger boxes and allowed them to
remain in the Peach house until they flowered. I
cut the first blooms on April 14, and have had
a good supply since. John B. Crichton, Oil Court
hardens, Strangjard, Co. Down.

Early Flowers. — I have this day gathered a
fine flower of Rosa sinica anemoneflora from the
open on a south wall. This is a very beautiful
Rose, especially for decorative purposes, though it
has also a handsome appearance on the wall,
with its deep green shining foliage and pretty pink
coloured flowers. The flowers of Solanum crispum
were obtained from a plant 10 feet in height and
it presents one mass of flowers. Ceanothus
Veitchianus is just opening its flowers and will
soon be delightful. This is the best of all varie-
ties, and blooms very early. Leptospermum flaves-
cens is another pretty shrub that is just opening
its flowers. This plant bears a profusion of bluish-
white flowers, which are the more conspicuous as
having bright yellow stamens ; I believe this is
the only species, though it is nearly allied to the
Saxifragas. I will send a flower in the course
of a few days. IV. A. Cook, Lconardslee Gardens,
Horsham.

Chicory and Hares. — The enclosed speci-
mens are, I think, those of the common Chicory —
Cichoriura Intybus. The flower-heads are blue,
and are borne on stems 18 inches to 2 feet high,
with long and tapering roots. The plant has been
recommended as good food for hares, and is said
to attract them more than any other common
herbage in pastures where they abound. This
plant is only found here over a limited area, and
possibly may have been sown with the Grass seeds.
It is a curious fact that more hares are found on
the pastures where the enclosed plant is growing.
Have any of your readers any experience of grow-
ing this plant to attract hares ? Thomas Bennett,
The Gardens, Knochbre.x, Kirkcudbright, N.B. [We
believe the specimens sent were Chicory, but have
no knowledge of the plant's connection with hares.
Ed.]

Calceolaria Mexicana. — I have grown this
pretty annual Calceolaria for several years. After
once being introduced into the garden it never
needs renewal, as seedlings spring up everywhere,
generally showing themselves early in April. I
see that Mr. F. G. Brewer, on p. 267, speaks of
it as growing to a height of 4 to 5 feet, and I
cannot but think that he alludes to a different
species to mine, which never exceed 18 inches
in height and is usually dwarfer. The plants are
alike in colour of flowers, which are pale yellow.
Mr. Brewer states that he has flower-sprays that
havi been cut 16 days. In my case the first
flowers are only now on the point of colouring,
and this spot is, I imagine, considerably warmer
than Merioneth. It is not alluded to in Nicholson's
Dictionary of Gardening, where the only two
annuals mentioned are C. chelidonioides and C.
pinnata, both of which are natives of Peru. 5. IV.
Fitzherbcrt, South Devonshire.

Saxifraga Boyoii. — Mr. Jenkins' interesting
paper on the Yellow Saxifrages in the Gardeners'
Chronicle for -April 21, having been brought to my
notice, I should like to reply to one or two of
his queries in regard to Saxifraga Boydii. This
plant originated in my brother's garden at Cherry-
trees, Roxburghshire, sometime about 1880. It
was not an artificially crossed plant between S.
aretioides and S. Burseriana, as Mr. Jenkins sup-
poses, but the seedling was found growing near
a plant of S. Burseriana, and as a plant of
S. aretioides, the only yellow Saxifraga in the
garden at that time, was growing not far oft',
the assumption was that it was a natural hybrid
between those two species. I cannot say whether
there was more than one plant originally found or
not, but, at any rate, for many years after its dis-
covery the stock was very small, and the plants were
all e.xactly alike in every particular. S. Boydii,
like many other hybrids, is a very shy seeder ;
but after one warm spring and summer my brother
found a pod of ripe seed on one plant, which was
growing in a cold frame. From this seed he raised
a few dozens of healthy plants which, when they
came to flower, showed considerable variety both
in colour and in shape. Many of them were like
the parent plant, but several were separated out
from the rest which we thought better than the
original ; two of those were put in circulation
more than a year ago, under the names of S.
" Faldonside " and " S. Cherrytrees." The first of
these is, I think, a better grower than its parent,
and has a much finer flower. Although the colour
is slightly paler the flower is perfectly circular,
which S. Boydii is not, and shows none of the
open spaces between the petals when the flower
is fully expanded, and the flower is also larger
than that of its parent. The latter of the two,
" S. Cherrytrees," is also a circular flower, but of

a very pale yellow colour, and is very beautiful
when fully expanded. I have, however, not
found this plant quite such a free grower as the
other one. There were among the seedlings
several with white flowers, but as none of these
was any better than S. Burseriana itself, although
having a bunch of flowers on the flower-stem,
I have only kept one, which flowers a good deal
later than any of the others. Mr. Jenkins
mentions that he has seen two sorts under the
name of S. Boydii. I think that as many
of the seedlings were considered so like S.
Boydii they got mixed with the original plants,
and I have no doubt they have been sent
to some people as the original plant. I cannot
tell where the pollen came from, but the
assumption is that it came from the plant
of S. aretioides growing near. As the original
seedling was found growing close to S. Burseriana
I assume it must have been the seed-bearing plant,
and as the male or pollen bearing plant usually
carries the colour, I fancy S. aretioides was the
pollen plant in this instance. These two yellow-
flowered seedlings from S. Boydii which I have
mentioned are in the hands of Messrs. Cunning-
ham & Fraser, Comely Bank Nursery, Edinburgh,
for distribution. I may mention that I have at
present a small plant of the true S. luteo-viridis
with five spikes of flower, each spike carrying
from six to ten flower-buds. They are not yet fully
expanded (on April 27), but this plant has been
outside all the winter on the rockery. I find all
this class of Saxifrages grow much better if the
soil is mixed largely with grit. William B. Boyd,
Faldonside, Melrose, N.B.

North Middlesex International Gar-
deners' Society. — A new gardeners' society
has been formed at Enfield Highway. Enfield
is well known for its nurseries, those in and
round Enfield together employing several thousand
men, of whom a good many come from the
Continent each year. Up to the present time
they have had no organisation whatever. The
new society is called the North Middlesex
International Gardeners' Society, and its objects
are : to educate its members through horti-
cultural lectures, botanical excursions, and perusal
of English and foreign horticultural publica-
tions, and also to afford its members the advan-
tages of social intercourse, and to bring about
a better understanding between the English and
foreign gardeners in Enfield. The society consists
of active, passive, and corresponding members.
.\ny gardener or nursery-hand can join the society.
The universal language will be English, although
any member who is not able to speak sufficient
English can write a paper in his own language,
which will be translated into English by the
secretary. The society will always be thankful
for any assistance from professional men in the
form of lectures or instructive correspondence, and
desires also to get into touch with other gardeners'
societies, especially the British Gardeners' Asso-
ciation. Communications should be addressed to
the secretary, Mr. C. Hasselgren, 49, St. James's.
Road, Enfield Highway, Enfield, Middlesex.

Hardiness of Hippeastrums. — Last autumn
it was noticed that several of the plants in our
collection were infested with mealy bug. Mr.
Martin, my employer, wished the plants to be
planted out in the open ground to see if it would
clear out the bug. This was done, the plants
being planted about 6 inches deep, and covered
first with sand to the depth of about 2 inches,
and 'afterwards covered with soil. They were
left there until the 4th of the present month (May)
when I took them up, and found that all the bulbs
except two or three were sound and growing.
They are now potted up, and as far as I can see
are clean, as no bug could be seen at the time. I
do not think amateurs need despair of growing
these beautiful flowers in their greenhouses if
there are means for excluding severe frost. Later
I may let you know the result this treatment has
on the bug, also on the flowering of the bulbs, for
they have been in very moist conditions during
the winter months, when they are usually resting.
S. Bouldcn, The Gardens, Treverbyn, Ptympton, South
Devon.

Wire Hoops for Strawberries. — In
answer to the Rev. Geo. Henslow's enquiry re-
specting the lifting of trusses of Strawberry fruits
on wire hoops, I may say that it is highly un-
desirable to do this when grown in the open
ground, as the higher the flowers are raised the
smaller will be the fruits. Straw or similar
material answers three oi: more purposes, viz..

>02

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 1.? 1906.

it checks the growth of weeds, conserves the moist-
lire in the ground, and prevents the fruits from
getting gritty during heavy rains or thunderstorms.
In these gardens, wliere 2,000 pot plants are forced
annually, every truss of Howers is supported by a
small prop cut from Pea-boughs or old Birch-
brooms. The prop is cut about 1 inch longer than
the length of the flower-stem, from the crown of
the plant to ttie point where the flower-stem
branches, and so inserted in the soil as to allow of
the fruits to hang over the sides of the pots.
Splendid fruits are obtained in this way, but to
place the flower-stem in a vertical position or
nearly so would greatly diminish the size and
quality of the fruits. J. W. Miles, Fruit Depart-
ment, Blenheim Gardens, Woodstock.

NiCANDRA viOLACEA. — The Rcvuc llorticole for
May 1 gives a coloured plate of the above-named
beautiful Solanaceous annual, whose introduction
into cultivation, as told by Mr. Henri Lemoine, is
both interesting and curious. In 1900, in one of
the open air seed-beds of the Botanic Garden, at
Tours, appeared a single chance seedling which
no one recognised or could give a name to. It
was carefully lifted and watched till it produced
its large, pale violet bell-shaped flowers, when it
was submitted for careful examination and com-
parison to the botanical authorities at Paris, who
pronounced it to be a Nicandra, but quite distinct
from, and much handsomer than the only known
variety N. physaloides. From the colour of its
flowers they gave it the specific name of violacea.
It is quite pretty, and seems to be a free bloom-
ing plant. H'. E. Giimbliivii.

The Weather in Cornwall. — The rainfall
during last montli was slight, being only 185
inches, bringing the total for the year up to 1565.
.-Mthough these figures show a very acceptable
quantity there was for the first 22 days practically
no rain ; bright sunshine with north or north-east
winds, sometimes blowing very strongly, made the
soil dry. Narcissi and Rhododendrons m sheltered
positions have been very fine, but those shrubs
which were planted during March have had to be
heavily watered, or, where they have not been
carefully attended to, show unmistakable signs of
an early drought. We registered no frost during
April, but there were some showers of hail during
the last week. H. W ., Trevincc.

Retirement of Mr. Bailey Wadds. — I
ttiave to ask your permission to refer to the retire-
'ment of Mr. 13ailey Wadds from the position of
gardener at Birdsall Gardens, York. Mr. Wadds
may justly be called a born gardener, seeing it was
'in a gardener's cottage he first saw the light. His
father was gardener for many years at Queenby
Hall, in Leicestershire. His first place from home
Avas at Keythorpe, the home of Lord Berners,
where he stayed se\'en years. He then went to
■Caen Wood, Highgate, under the then well-known
gardener, Mr. Cockburn, from thence to Cliveden,
under Mr. Fleming. At that time Cliveden was
in the heyday of its fame for spring flower
gardening, and a great gathering place for the
nobility and others. Mr. Wadds has told the
writer of his frequently seeing the Duke of Argyll,
the Earl of Carlisle, Sir Charles Wood, Mr.
Gladstone, and Garibaldi in his red shirt. His
first charge as head gardener was at I^aywell Hall,
in East Yorks, where he remained seven years.
He then went in the same position to Sir John
Thorold, Syston Park, Grantham, for another
septennial period. In 1873 the late Lord and
Lady Middleton, of Birdsall House, York, decided
to make extensive alterations in their gardens, and
Mr. Wadds was chosen to carry out the work. A
new kitchen garden was made and very fine ranges
of glass houses were built by Messrs. Foster &
Pearson, of Beeston, Notts. The latter are
arranged on the then seldom seen corridor system,
and may be said to have answered admirably. It
may be remarked in passing that where a fairly
large quantity of new houses is to be built on
this principle it is best to keep the plant houses
and fruit houses in separate blocks. There is
much less risk of injury to the latter from trouble-
some insects when this is done. Figs in pots.
Peaches, Grapes in variety, Roses, and Malmaison
Carnations may be said to have been the specialities
at Birdsall, not overlooking the very important
point of a good general supply of all kinds of
garden produce. The Apricot shed may be said
to have been unique, so constantly have hea\y
crops of good fruit been produced in it. Some of
the choicer dessert Plums have also done very
well. Mr. Wadds has won golden opinions from
his friends and neighbours during his 33 years'

residence amongst them by his general helpfulness
all round. His constant endeavour to gain dona-
tions and subscriptions to the Gardeners' Royal
Benevolent Institution are well known. I believe
he has raised considerably over £200 in this way
with a view to benefit his fellow gardeners. Those
who have done anything vn this direction will well
know the tact, sound judgment, and continued
alertness required in his case. Mr. Wadds' duties
cease at the end of June. He thinks of settling
near Derby where he has a married daughter.
Lord Middleton has very kindly offered him help
in hisdeclinirg years. His only son is gardener
to Sir Weetman Pearson, at Paddockhurst. York-
shire Gardener.

SOCXSTIES.

EOYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Scientific Committee.

May \.— Present: Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S. ;
Dr. A. Henry; Rev. W. Wilks, M.A. ; Messrs.
G. S. Saunders, H. T. Gussow, W. C. Wors-
dell, A. Worslev, H. B. May, H. J. Elwes, W.
Cuthbsrtson, E! A. Bowles, £. M. Holmes, A.
W. Sutton, G. Massee, G. Nicholson, C. T.
Druery, J. Douglas, and F. J. Chittenden (hon.
sec.) .

Gardenia Roots Dying.— ^r. G. S. Saundeks
reported that he had carefully examined the
roots of c;ardenia shown at the last meeting,
but could find no trace of eelworm. A fungus
of some kind was, however, present, which
might account for the death of the roots.

Variation in Ferns.— Mx. H. B. MAY showed
examples of crested forms of two species of
Nephrolepis, N. exaltata, and N. rufescens, bot'.i
of which bore curious tassel-like growths. IIo
remarked that he had not seen ■ anything tA
the kind in exotic T erns before ; he found that
the tassels die after being in existence a short
time. Mr. Druery said that although such
variation in exotic Ferns was new to him, he
had found a similar thing to occur in British
Ferns, e.g., in Athyrium, Lastraea montana,
and Scolopendrium. He considered that the
formation of the tassels was due to the growth
of the nervo beyond the regiO'i of development
of the flattened portion of the frond and its
subsequent repeated branching. He thought
their early death was to be explained by the
fact that they must be functionless.

Variation in l.'oloiir of Tendi ils of Sweet Peas.
— Mr. CuTHBEKTSuN drew attention to the fact
that some varieties of Sweet Peas had from
their earliest growth a reddish tint in their ten-
drils, while others were quite groen, with the
object of ascertaining whether any one had dis-
covered the significance of this variation.

Frnit of Lilittm candidiim.—V)x. Masters
showed a ripe capsule of Lilium candidum coa-
taining a few apparently well-formed seeds
among a large number of imperfectly formed
ones. Mr. WiLKS said that numbers of cap-
sules were produced at Wisley on this Lily, but
he did not know whether they contained any
perfect seeed. Mr. lii.wES said that plants had
been raised from ssed produced after artificial
fertilisation.

Pinus sylvestris Destroyed by Beetles. — Mr.
S-WNDERS took some specimens sent from Suf-
folk, and will report upon them later.

Convolvulus aziireus Leaves injured. — Leaves
of a plant of Convolvulus azureus which had
been inadvertently left in a Cucumber house
were sent by Mr. A. C. Barlett, of Pencarrow
Gardens, Cornwall. Many spots were present
on the leaves, and from the centre of each a
rather large black projection arose. These spots
are caused by a checking of transpiration, and
the production of warts or " intumescences " as
a consequence, and are quite similar to those
shown recently on Pelargonium, Hydrangea,
and Fuchsia. A proper balance between heat,
moisture, and light must be maintained if such
unhealthy growth is to be avoided.

Vines Dying Back. — Some Vine shoots, the
leaves of which first became brown at the edges,
then farther back, were received. Mr. Massee
took these for further examination.

Richardia Elliottiana Malformed. — Mr. F:. H.
Jenkins, F.R.Ii.S., of Hampton Hill, sent a
curious malformation of Richardia Elliottiana.
In the place of leaves were long narrow struc-
tures resembling petioles, and in one case a
much attenuated growth with wavy margins ;
and while the spadix appeared to be properly

developed, the spathe was reduced to a thread-
like outgrowth about 3h inches in length. The
corm and roots were normal.

Plants, etc.. Exhibited. — 1. Cypella Herberti.
Mr. WoRSLEY showed an inflorescsnce of this
curious and beautiful South American Irid. 2.
Tropffiolum Lobbi x T. canariense. He
also showed flowers of this cress, and remarked
that while in summer the flowers produced were
of a bright red, in winter the petals were usually
margined with yellow. He found that the
flowers borne by plants raised from cuttings
of this plant varied considerably, and passed
specimens round m illustration of his remarks.
3. He also showed a flower of a Tropasolum
having two spurs. The ^tera tearing it appeared
to be fasciated, and the plant from which it
came was raised from a cutting taken from a
fasciated stqm. 4. Deutzia scabra. Dr. Mas-
ters drew attention to the true D. scabra shown
by Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, and pointed
out that the plant usually grown under
that name was really D. crenata, a species
with which it has long been confounded,
o. Ceanothus Fendleri. He also com-
mented upon this plant, which, unlike other
members of the genus, has a grey bark, is spiny,
and bears white Howers. It is a mountain plant
and comes from the South-western United
States. 6. Fritillarias. Mr. Elwes showed
several "species" of Fritillaria, and said that
he thought that in all probability many were
geographical forms of one species. He thought
this to be the case in all probability with F.
acmapctala, F. Elwesi, and F. pontica, all ot
which came from Asia Minor. Other species
shown were F. Whittali, F. Kotschyana, I. mes-
sunensis, and F. pallidiflora.

Deodars Dying Suddenly. — Mr. Elwes re-
marked that his attention had recently been
called to several Deodars of considerable size
which had died quite suddenly. The trouble
could not be attributed to uncongenial soil or
to climate, and nothing seemed to be known as
to the cause. Mr. Worslev said that he had
known of similar sudden death in Sequoia, Libo.
cedrus, and B;ota.

Change under Cultivation.— yu . Elwes showed
flowers of a Bomarea in order to illustrate the
great changes occurring in a species when
brought under cultivation. He collected the
seeds at Rio Janeiro, and the plants when raised
bore quite small flowers, but now the flowers
were very much larger, and differed in colour,
and the leaves greatly exceeded the originals
in size. The plants, however, which had been
kept in pots, still bore small leaves and flowers.
The species had been determined to B. edulis,
but after cultivation it nearly approached B.
Carderi in appearance.

ROYAL CALEDONIAN HORTICULTURAL

May 9, 10. — The executive changed the date of
this show from the end, to the second week of
the month, and so far as the quality of the ex-
hibits is concerned the change is for the bet-
ter, though a smaller number of entries is re-
ported.

The Edinburgh nurserymen as usual did their
best to aid the show, the chief firms filling
nearly half the floor space of the market with
groups of plants. Commencing at the east end,
Messrs. j. Stoemonth & Son, Kirkbride,
staged an extensive group of Alpine plants
arranged on a rockery ; then Messrs. J. Dickson
& Sons, Hanover Street, Edinburgh, came with
a small group of flowering plants, next to which
Messrs. Cunningham & Eraser, Comely Bank,
had a noble mass, mainly of Rhododendrons,
also an extensive rockwork furnished with Al-
pine plants. Messrs. R. B. Laird & Sons,
Pinkhill, came in succession with a charmingly
arranged group of Acacias, Azalea mollis.
Rhododendrons, Spiraeas, Heaths, etc., the
whole being most effective. Occupying the
space half-way up the market Messrs. Dicksons
& Co., Waterloo Place, staged a wonderful
group of pot Roses, including various Ramblers,
Hybrid Teas, etc., with a few grand examples
of Rhododendrons, Pink Pearl and White Pearl,
and a new Ivy named Edmontonensis, heavily
variegated with milk-white. The firm also set
up some vases of extra fine Carnation blooms,
including the varieties Governor Wolcott, En-
chantress and Mrs. J. W. Lawson. Mr. John
DowNiE, Beechwood, continued the series of
groups with a nice lot of decorative material.

May 12, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

JOS

and Mr. David W. Thomson, 113, George Street,
set up a delightful arrangement of forced Stan-
dard Roses, with Lilacs, Azaleas, and Rhodo-
dendrons as a carpeting.

Other trade groups comprised cut Tulips from
Messrs. VV. B. Hartland & Sons,. Cork ; a
miscellaneous arrangement from Mr. Forbes,
of Hawick, in which Carnations, Pteonies, and
Calladiums were prominent ; Messrs. Dobbie
& Co., Rothesay, staged a fine lot of Pansies,
Violas and Zonal Pelargoniums ; Messrs.
Bare & Sons, London, an extensive lot of May
Tulips, Spanish Iris and Tritonia crocata ;
Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Barnet, a collec-
tion of cut Carnations, including White Lawson,
General Kuroki, Fair Maid, and Mrs. Elliot,
and a basket full of Polyantha Rose Mrs. W.
H. Cutbush. Mr. L. R. Rtjssel, Richmond,
Surrey, a table of dwarf Clematis; Messrs. J.
and A. Glass, Princes .Street, Edinburgh, a
good collection of cut Narcissus, the "blooms of
which were large and well developed ; Messrs.
Kent & Brydon, Darlington, Carnations and
a nicely-arranged rockery, backed with Palms
and Roses ; Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, Dub-
lin, a very extensive collection of cut Tulips,
the blooms being of large size, and the kinds
varied. Miss Jekyll, Rose Mignonne, La Reve,
Pink Beauty, Yellow Queen, Lord Byron,
Alexandra and Summer Beauty being specially
fine; Messrs. Storrie iV Storrie, Dundee, had
a large collection of Primulas of showy sorts,
including the sweet strain of Yellow Auricula,
Polyanthus, and some well-coloured varieties of
Primula obconica.

COMPETITIVE CLASSES.

Plants.
For a group of plants arranged on the floor
Mr. A. ilvNiGHT, Brayton, staged a delighttul
arrangement in which the dominant featureb
were standard Crotons, Schizanthus and Odon-
toglossum crispum ; 2nd, Mr. J. E. Davis,
Ballanthie, Stanley, Perthshire, who had a
bright but somewhat heavy-looking group.
3rd, Mr. G. Brown, Silverknowe. For four Or-
chids Mr. MclNTVRE, The Glen, won the 1st prize,
having a very fine variety of Odontoglossum cris-
pum and others ; 2nd, Mr. T. Dewar, Craigie-
burn ; 3rd, Mr. Findlay, Gogar Park. Mr.
Dewar had the best single Orchid in an extra
fine form of Odontoglossum crispum. Mr.
McMillan, Douglas Castle, won the 2nd prize.
For a group of Orchids Mr. D. Mackav,
Viewbank, Lasswade, won the 1st prize with
a varied collection ; 2nd, Mr. Dewar, with
fewer but better grown plants.

The best exhibit of four stove and greenhouse
plants was grown by Mr. McIntyre, and in-
cluded a fine plant of Anthurium Scherzeria-
num ; 2nd, Mr. Geo. Wood, Oswald House.

For a group of six plants in bloom Mr.
McIntyre again won the 1st prize, and Mr.
Wood was 2nd.

For six foliage plants Mr. McMillan won the
1st position with clean, well-grown plants, and
Mr. Knight was 2nd. A few nice table
plants were staged by Mr. Y'ovNG, Kinlock
Castle, who won the 1st prize.

For four foliage plants Mr. McMillan
secured the 1st prize with large, w-ell-grown
specimens, Anthurium crystallinum being very
fine. Mr. .Knight was 2nd, and perhaps his ex-
hibit was equal to the 1st prize group ; his
Crotons and Anthurium leuconervium being
extra fine.

Pot Roses made an excellent show, the plants,
though small, being healthy and well-bloomed.
For 12 pots Mr. Thom, Carlowrie, was an easy
1st. Mr. H. Cai.der, Lauriston Castle, 2nd.
For 6 plants Mr. Thom was again 1st, and also
for 6 H.T. Roses.

The best group of three Crotons came from
Mr. M.\ckay, and Mr. Thorn secured the 1st
prize for three Dracaenas, having fresh, clean
examples.

Of thf. smaller class of plants Calceolarias
were very fine, Mr. James Thomson, Redford
House, Colinton, winning the 1st prize for six
varieties with dwarf and well-flowered ex-
amples ; Mr. Henderson, Rosanna, Corstor-
phine was 2nd.

For 24 Alpine plants Mr. D. Allan, Slobhill,
Gorebridge, won the 1st prize, and for six Al-
pines Mr. Turner, Valleyfield, Pennycuik, held
the same position. Mr. Allan had the best
Alpine Auriculas as well as the six best show

Auriculas, the latter in better condition than
that in which they are usually presented at
Edinburgh.

Of Spiraeas, Deutzias, Primula obconica and
Polyanthus there appeared to be fewer staged
than usual at this show.

Of F'.'rns there was a good display, Mr.
McMillan, Douglas Castle, winning the 1st
prize for three plants, and Mr. Duff, The
Christie Institute, Portobello, the 2nd prize.
Adiantums were fine, the best three plants be-
ing staged by Mr. Hermiston, Hazelbank, Mur-
rayfield ; Mr. Pearson, Beechwood, having
equally fresh but smaller plants. A very large
number of British varieties, both large and
dwarf-growing, were staged, but these were in
less good condition than the exotic species.

Cut Flowers.

Chief among these were the Roses, some of
which were very beautiful. For 12 blooms Mr.
Parlane, Rosslea, Bow, was easily 1st with
lovely blooms. Ulrich Brunner. Caroline Testout,
Marechal Niel, and Mrs. W. J. Grant, being con-
spicuously good ; 2nd, Mr. W. Young, Craighlaw,
Kirkcowan. For 24 blooms the same exhibitors
obtained the same relative places. Marechal Niel
in bunches and other varieties were excellent.

For six bunches of Orchids. Mr. McIntyre had
the 1st prize, and for 12 bunches of greenhouse
flowers Mr. Young, Kinloch Castle, gained the
1st prize. Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations,
Ixoras, and Tuberoses being his best varieties ;
Mr. McMillan was 2nd.

Daffodils were not shown numerously, but Mr.
Prosser, Saughton House, Corstorphine, won the
1st prize for 12 bunches.

For three vases of Carnations, Mr. Kidd, Car-
bery Tower Gardens, Musselburgh, was 1st,
having fine blooms of good winter flowering
varieties. Mr. Young was 2nd in this class, but
obtained the 1st prize for three vases of Souvenir
de la Malmaison varieties. Sweet Peas were
shown by Mr, Highgate, Yester House, Gifford.

Table Decorations.

Three tables were decorated as for dinner. The
1st prize was awarded to Mrs. Ban, 1, Bruntsfield
Terrace, for an arrangement of pink Carnations,
Sweet Peas, and Gypsophila, with Smilax being
used. The exhibit a\i'arded the 2nd prize, from
Miss Agnes Waite, 18, Balmoral Place, was
rather heavy in appearance, but pretty pink and
crimson Roses, mostly Ramblers, were employed
in its arrangement ; Mr. Winch, 3, Starbank
Road, Trinity, was 3rd. A few nice Bouquets
were shown,

Messrs. Perkins & Sons were awarded the two
1st prizes for Bouquets, and also for a Floral
Design and a Floral cross, anchor and heart.

Fruit and Vegetables.

The fruit exhibited consisted mainly of a few-
dishes of Strawberries, Mr. Woodcock, Archerfield,
Drem, being 1st with fine fruits of the varieties
Royal Sovereign and Garibaldi, and Mr. Gallo-
way, of Gosford, Aberlady, 2nd with the same
varieties. Mr. Galloway showed Hale's Early
Peach in very fine condition.

Vegetables made only a poor show. Mr. Kidd
was 1st for a collection, as also for Cucumbers
and Tomatos.

Awards.

A First Class Certificate was awarded to Mr.
Downie for a seedling Acer, with large pink
blotches on the leaves, and .\wards of Merit to
Messrs. Cutbush & Sons for Rose A. W. Cut-
bush. and Carnation General Kuroki.

In the competition for plans drawn up by young
gardeners, the 1st prize was awarded to Mr. J. M.
Webster, MiUfield, the 2nd prize to Frank
Phillip, Philiphaugh, and the 3rd prize to
Andrew Dickson, Alloa Park Gardens.

Trade Exhibits.

The following awards were made to honorary
exhibitors:— Messrs. Barr cS: Sons, 11, King
Street, Covent Garden, London, Tulips (Silver Gilt
Medal); H. & J. Caesar, Knutsford, Cheshire,
Rustic Houses (Award of Merit) ; Cape of Good
Hope Government, 73, Basinghall Street, E.G.
(Silver Gilt Medal) : H. Castle & Sons, Ltd..
Baltic Wharf, MiUbank, Westminster. London,
S.W., Garden Seats (Award of Merit) ; Cross &
Sons, Ltd., 19 Hope Street, Glasgow, Manures;
Cunningham, Eraser & Co., Comely Bank,

Edinburgh, Alpines and Hardy Plants (Silver Gilt
Medal) ; Cutbush & Son, Highgate Nurseries,
London, N., Alpines, &c. (Silver Gilt Medal) ;
J. Dickson & Sons, 9G, Hanover Street, Group of
Plants; Dicksons & Co., 1, Waterloo Place,
Groups of Plants (Gold Medal) ; Dobbie & Co.,
Rothesay, Pansies, Violas, &c. (Silver Medal) : Mr.
John Downie, 75 & 77, Shandwick Place, Group-
of Plants (Silver Medal) ; John Forbes, Buccleuch
Nurseries, Hawick (Silver Medal) ; Messrs. J. & A.
Glass, Princes Street, Daffodils (Silver Medal) ;
W. Baylor, Hartland & Sons, Cork, Tulips
(Bronze Medal) ; Hogg & Robertson, Ltd., 22,
Mary Street', Dublin, Tulips (Silver Gilt Medal) ;
Mr. Thos. Johnston, 18, FuUar Street, Renfrew.
Garden Tubs ; Messrs. Kent & Brvdon, Dar-
lington, Alpines (Silver Medal) . R. B. Laird &
Sons, Ltd., Frederick Street, Group of Plants
(Silver Gilt Medal); Lister & Co., Dursley,
Garden Tubs (Award of Merit) ; Mr. A. Pollock,
Rustic Houses, &c. (.A.ward of Merit) ; Messrs.
Rotholl & Petrie, Cawdor Street Works, Man-
Chester, Flower Displayer ; Mr. L. R. Russell,
Richmond Nurseries, Richmond, Clematis (Silver
GiltMedal)_; Scottish Mushroom Co. (1906), Ltd.,
Mushrooms (Cultural Commendation) ; Messrs.
Shanks & Co., Lawn Mowers (Silver Medal) ;
Mr. Peter Small, Engineer, Forfar, Lawn
Mowers (Award of Merit) ; Messrs. J. Stormonth
& Son, Kirkbride, Cumberland, Alpines (Silver
Gilt Medal) ; Storrie & Storrie, Glencarse.
Perthshire, Primulas (Silver Medal) ; Mr. D. W.
Thomson, 113, George Street, Group of Plants
(Silver Gilt Medal) : Messrs. Peter Walker &
Son, 51, Buccleuch Street, Garden Edging (Award
of Merit) ; Mr. Young, Kinloch Castle, Hybrid
Schizanthus (Cultural Commendation) ; Robt.
Woodcock, Pears (Cultural Commendation).

PLANT PORTRAITS.

Crat-egus C\RK\KR\.^GaYiicn Album, April, t. 16.
Cypripedium " Lawrebki, " X, — Across between C. Law^

renceanum and C. bellatulum. Garten Flora, May 1.
Incarvillea Delavavi. — Garden Albitm, April, t. 15.
NiCANDRA vioLACEA. — An annual plant with pinnately lobed

foliage, large leafy calyx resembling that of a Physalis,

and bell-shaped flowers 2 inches across, light blue, with

a purple eye. Revue Horticole, May 1.
Spir.ca van Houttei. — Garden Album, April, t. 14.
Trollius Europ.cus grandii lorus: — Garden Album, Aprils

t. 13.

Mrs. Eliza Brightwen. — This kind-hearted
and well informed lady, a great enthusiast in gar-
dening and natural history, passed away at her resid-
ence. The Grove, Stanmore, on May 5, at the
age of 75 years. Mrs. Brightwen, who was a
Fellow of the Zoological Society, of the Ento-
mological Society, Vice-President of the Selborne
Society, and an active correspondent of many
_other learned bodies, spent the greater part of her
time on her own beautiful estate, the gardens of
which, under the care of Mr. J. W. Odell, are
famed for the diversity of interesting subjects
they contain. Always a student of nature, the
deceased lady constantly studied both plant and
animal life, and made notes for the works she
wrote. Evidence of keen observation is given
in her " Glimpses into Plant Life," dedicated to
her friend Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker; "Side
Lights on the Bible," in which the plants
mentioned in the Bible are specially well dealt
with; and her two works on "Wild Nature," in
all of which her talent as a clever artist greatly
helped. Mrs. Brightwen, who was a distant
relative of Sir Thomas Hanbury, had tastes ia
gardening similar to those of that gentleman, in-
cluding a desire to acclimatise hardy plants, and a.
great fancy for those of unusual structure or habit.
She will be much missed, especially in the district
in viihich she resided.

John Barron. — It is with much regret we
record the death of Mr. John Barron, head of the
firm of William Barron & Son, Elvaston Nurseries,
Borrowash, Derbyshire, and well known as a
landscape-gardener. Deceased died at his resi-
dence on May 7, in his 62nd year.

304

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 12, 1906.

Geo. C. Swailes. — Many Rose and fruit
growers will learn with regret of the sad and
untimely end of Mr. Geo. C. Swailes, of the
Rose Nurseries, Beverley, Yorks., who had
made his name well known far and wide as a skil-
ful Rose grower. He was also a capable judge of
cut flowers and fruit, having for many years
acted in this position at some of the best horti-
cultural shows, where his genial manner always
secured him a hearty welcome. He was the last
direct representative of this old and well-known
Beverley firm, and up to a few weeks ago had
enjoyed robust health. A paralytic seizure,
li'.m which he never rallied, was the cause of
death, which took place on May 4. He was
only 51 years of ag'j, and died unmarried. At
all times deceased was ready and willing to do
all he could for those interested in the Rose, and
many will long remember the bunches and bas-
kets of beautiful Rose-blooms given to them by
the late George Swailes. No one in Beverley
ever called him by the prefix " Mr." He was
too well known and liked by all who came in
contact with him to be addressed by anything
but his simple name. His funeral took place on
May 7 at St. Mary's Cemetery, Beverley, and
■was largely attended. Amongst the numerous
wreaths which covered the coffin was one sent
by the Beverley Chrysanthemum Society. — C.L.,
Wcllon, East Yorkshire.

INQUIRIES AND REPLIES.

PoLYPODiuM FIBRE. — 1 shall be much obliged if
any reader can inform me if the fibre of the Poly-
podium Fern (gathered fresh) is a good substitute
lor peat fibre, for Orchids. I find it impossible to
get the latter good, but I can get any amount of
fern, the fibre of which is of a nice brown colour,
with hardly any earthy matter. I have of late
grown my Cattleyas in Oak leaf and moss, with
good results, but 1 find that the compost becomes
sour after the second year, which does not
happen when I add a third of peat fibre to the
compost. I have seen the Polypodium fibre
advertised, but 1 have met no one who has used
it. Any information on the subject would greatly
interest me. C. N . Brameld, Pightley House, Spax-
toii, Somfiset.

Electricity and Street Trees. — Can any
reader give information on the subject of elec-
tric wires and the difference of cost of in-
stallation when erected upon poles and when
carried underground ? Here the streets are
aligned with trees, such as Cedrus Deodara,
Araucarias, I'alms, &c. In the town, which is a
winter resort for tourists, we have five telephone,
electric light, and street railway companies. All
these have aerial wires. These wires are directly
above the trees before mentioned. Now, when
the leading branches or shoots touch these wires
the companies send their employees along with
saws and axes to cut away and remove several
feet off them. The effect of this will be under-
stood by those familiar with the sorts of trees I
have mentioned. The matter has been discussed
here freely. The inhabitants of the town deplore
the disfigurement of magnificent specimens ; how-
ever, their objections are invariably met by the
companies owning these wires, asserting that the
cost of a system of underground wires would make
the cost of service almost prohibitive. Sidney
Redlands, Cal., U.S.A.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Ampelopsis Veitchii : E. P. N. If you send us
some of the cankered stem we will examine it.
If it is fungoid disease you will do wrong to
plant other specimens until you have thoroughly
destroyed all traces of the affected plants and
thoroughly sterilised the soil in which they have
been growing. From your description we are
inclined to think the failure is due to drought ;
large specimen plants against walls frequently
die from this cause.

AucuBA : T. E. W. The green form, whether
male or female, is the natural species, of which
the variegated form is a mere variety.

DiACRiuM bilamellatum : H. Haddoii, Lynivood,
Penarth. We print your letter. " I am send-
ing you a spike of Diacrium bilamellatum,
an ally of D. bicornutum. As you will see,
the flowers have not opened properly. The
petals wither while yet in the bud stage, and
the ovaries swell as though fertilized. I had
the same trouble last year with two plants, and
this year only two spikes have opened their
-flowers properly. The plants are swarming with
ants, in the same manner as they are said to be
when growing wild. The ants make their home
in the hollow pseudo-bulbs, going in and out by
the orifice which appears at the base of the
mature bulbs. The ants ascend the spikes and
go to the base of each flower after something.
I think the failure of the flowers must be due to
the action of the ants for the plants are strong
and healthy." The flowers have the appearance
of being close-fertilised, but examination with
a lens shows that openings have been made on
the under sides of the flowers. No poUiniawere
found, and the stigmatic surface seemed to have
been disturbed. The flowers were not fertilised,
but the swelling of the ovaries, and the conse-
quent failure of the flowers, was probably caused
by irritation of the stigma in the manner before
remarked in Orchids.

Flue : J. S. The cleanings from the flue may
be treated as soot, and may with safety be
placed over the lawn.

Grape Spot: IF. H. T. The spotting is caused
by a fungus Glaeosporium ampelophagum. Cut
away and burn all diseased berries, aud spray
the remaining ones with liver of sulphur, \ oz.
to a gallon of water.

Grapes : IF. IV Some of the berries are already
spotted and will probably become more so ; the
roots are in an unsatisfactory condition. Many
are dead, and the leaves of the Black Hamburgh
are covered with warts, the result of defective
ventilation and excessive heat and moisture.
You might still apply the Bordeaux mixture or
liver of sulphur -loz. to a gallon of water, but of
course you must not apply either when the
berries show signs of colouring.

Lilies : /. F. R. The disease is due to Botrytis.
Spray with sulphide of potassium, at the rate of
one ounce of sulphide to three gallons of water.
If this browns the young growth, add more
water. Sprinkle the soil around the Lilies with
quick-lime or soot.

Malformed Callas: £. S., and others. The pro-
duction of two coloured spathes is by no means
uncommon. Every week, lately, we have had
one or more specimens sent for inspection. We
are obliged for your courtesy in sending us
photographs, but we do not reproduce them,
having already given illustrations of them.

Names OF Plants : A.D.5. Your cardboard box
was crushed in transit. The flower appears to
be a variety of Cymbidium eburneum. — Geo.
Monro. Tritoma crocata variety miniata — A.
B.G. 1, Anemone fulgens ; 2, Pyrus japonica ;
3, Pilea muscosa. — T. E. W. Amygdalus nana.
—F. E. B. Ccelogyne nitida.— /!. Y. L. 1, Den-
drobium capillipes ; 2, Vanda cccrulescens ; 3,
Bletia Shepherdi. — J. M. 3, Dendrobium Fal-
coneri. — E. L. 3, Dendrobium moschatum. —
A.C.H. Odontoglossum Hunnewellianum. It
is imported with O. crispum from one locality,
and, mixed with such importations, may also be
found O. Adrianae, the natural hybrid between
the two species named. — T. H. C. Rhynchosia
cyanosperma. — F.C. I, Tulipa sylvestris; 2,
Veratrum album. — G. R. Spiraea Thunbergii.
— G. P., Havrogate. Pyrus salicifolia. — G. L. N.
We cannot undertake to name garden varieties.
Send them to some grower. — /. Me. Piptanthus
nepalensis. — H. H. 1, Dendrobium Falconeri ;

2. iTygopetalum crimtum. — H. S. Claytonia
perfoliata. — J. P. 1, Ansellia gigantea; 2,
Ansellia gigantea lutea. — P. L. H. 1, Den-
drobium Parishii ; 2, Dendrobium cariniferum ;

3, Dendrobium Gibsoni ; 4, Bulbophyllum
suavissimum. — R. F. Rose Caroline Testout.
— Ckvedon. Tecoma jasminoides.

Orchids: H. P. The disease is an unusual form
of what is termed '■ spot," and is caused by the
deposition of moisture on the leaves when the
atmospheric temperature of the house is at its
lowest point. The employment of good ventila-
tion, and keeping the air as dry as circumstances
permit, will remove the cause. The damping
down of the house in the evening, if the tempera-
ture falls much during the night, is the principal
cause of " spot ' i-. Orchids.

Peach trees : A.T. We do not think you can
do anything to better the condition of the trees
until autumn, when it would be good policy to
lift them, and after making quite certain that the
drainage is in a perfect state, plant the trees in
fresh soil. That the trees have " gummed " is
a proof that the roots are in an unsuitable
medium or that the process of pruning was
carried out later in the season than it should
have been, and probably with greater severity
than is needful when disbudding and thinning
out of the shoots is done during the growing
season. It does not follow that if fungus is
present on the roots, and that this effects some
of the branches, that all of them will be affected
in li,ke degree.

Peach Leaves Riddled: A. C. W. The injury
is caused by the Shot Hole Fungus, Cercospora.
Burn all the affected leaves and spray with liver
of sulphur, using i oz. of the sulphur to one
gallon of water.

Pear leaves : IF. /. P. The leaves are affected
with the Pear mite. Destroy the affected leaves.

Roses FOR growing in pots : Bath. Six excellent
varieties for the purpose are Captain Heywood,
H. P. (crimson). General Jacqueminot, H. P.
(red), Mrs. W. J. Grant, H. T. (rosy pink), Mrs.
johnLaing, H.P. (pink). Liberty, H.T. (crimson),
and Catherine Mermet, T. (rose). You will gain
much information on the subject if you consult
such works as Roses in Pots by William Paul, or
The Book of the Rose by the Rev. Foster Melliar.
You can obtain these and other works on the
Rose from our publisher. The prices of the two
works mentioned are 2s. and (Js. 4d. post free
respectively.

Tomato : E. IF. F. Your plants are affected
with Tomato Rust, Cladosporium fulvum. Cut
away the diseased leaves and burn them. Spray
the healthy plants with Bordeaux mixture. See
p. 136 of the Calendar of Garden Operations, to be
had from our publishing office for 7|d. post free.

Tomato Plants : Tomato. It may be that the
plants are growing unusually quickly in exces-
sively rich soil, and that the leaves are not able to
withstand the effects of bright sunshine, to which
they are not so accustomed as would be the case
later in the season. Admit more air to the
house and throw some water about the floors
and over other surfaces, that the atmosphere
may be kept in a moister condition. Do not
apply manures until some fruits have set. If
you have reason to suspect the presence of
fungus disease, or of Eelworms, send us speci-
mens of leaf, stem, and roots.

Voles : J. W. We can oiily suggest poison, but
this must not be used if game or rabbits are
preserved in the adjoining covers ; unless you
could place the poison beneath a wire covering
so that the game could not reach it. A poison
the mice will take is composed of sugar and
oatmeal or wheat flour, 6 ozs. each, carbonate
of baryta J lb. ; and enough oil of aniseed to
give the mixture a strong odour.

Vines : Constant. It is very likely the manure
was too strong. Soak the border with clear
water, after which the trouble will probably
cease. If not, send further specimens in a week
or two.

Vines: H. H. The leaves show signs of the
disease called "Browning," the cause of which
is still a mystery. Cut out the affected shoots
and burn them. Apply water freely so as to
induce vigorous growth.

Water Weed : H. C. D. A species of Chara or
Nitella. A weak solution of sulphate of copper
distributed over the surface of the pond will
probably kill the plant. Rake out as much as
you can of the weed and keep the water-fowl out
of the way when using the copper solution.

Weed Killer : A. A. IF. Why not use common
salt ? Its application is certainly less dangerous,
and it is usually effective if made with care
and repeated as often as necessary. Weed
killers may be prepared from arsenic and soda
or from carbolic acid. The carbolic acid should
be diluted in 100 times its own bulk. Be very
careful to protect box or other live edging
plants from being touched with the liquid,
which should be applied through a fine rosed
watering can.

Communications Received. — J. C. Mc. P. — P. L. H.— I. P.
—J. W. M.— C. W. (Wolverhamptonl~A. E. M.— A. M.—
Foster— W. J. T. (Jamaica) -W. VV. P.— C. G. G.~R. S.—
F. S. Bruges-T. H.— F. J.— H. H.— A. T. H.— W. T.—
A. K. P.— J. H.— J. W. M.— Sanders— S. S: Mc— W. D.—
H.R.W.— W.K.—S.C— E.H. J.— H.]., photograph— H P.
For Market ami ]Vcalhcr Reports see pa^c x.

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May 19, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

305

THE

diiirbcncrs'CbronicIc

No. 1,012.— SATURDAY, hhiy 19. 1906.

CONTENTS.

Arctotis, the species of,

at Kew 313

Books, notices of —
Hand List of Ferns... 313
Pocl<et Book of Brit-
ish Birds 313

Piiblicalions received 313
Cabbages, spring ... 315

Cyinbidiuin Lowianum 315
Fern with new method

of reproduction ... 313
Flowers in season ... 312
Freesias from seed, rais-
ing 310

Fruit trees, protecting

from frost 313

G.trdening Societies, pro-
posed federation of ... 315
Gooseberry caterpillar,
the '.. ... .- 320

Greenhouse decoration

at Kew 312

Guernsey, a week in ... 305

Horticultural exhibition,

. an international ... 313

Kew notes 306

Meconopsis integrifolia 313
Obituary —

Barroii, John 319

Croinbie, J. Morison 320
May, Mrs. ... 312, 320
Odontoglossum Queen
of the Earth SOfl

Royal

312, 318

Orphan Fmul

Gardeners'
Plant distribution at

Wisley

Plants new or note
worthy —

Viburnum Carlesii
Propagating planls
Recreation for gardeners 313
Saxifraga juniperifolia 315
Sea-weed as a manure... 309
Societies —

Croydon Horticultural 318

Linnean

National Fruit Cirow-
ers' Federation

Royal Horticultural ...
Strawberries, forcing . .
Trewidden, Penzance...
Vesuvius, destruction of

garden crops by the

eruption of

Viola Mary Burnie
Week's Work, Ihc—

Apiary, the

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ..

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...

315

300
308

318

318
315
315
307

313
30G

311
310
311
311
311
310
310

ILUUSTRATiONS.

Anemone Pulsatilla ..

Arctotis aspera (Supplementary Illustration).

.\rctotis aspera var. arborescens

<-ooseberry caterpillar, the

Nectarines diseased through gumming
Odontoglossum crispuni Queen of the Earth
\'iola Mary Burnie

3U
320
320
309
306

A WEEK IN GUERNSEY.

THOSE interested in horticulttiro should
by all means visit the beautiful islaiid
of Guernsey, and the more they see of
it the more interesting and beautiful it
will appear; at least, so I thought at the con-
clusion of a recent visit, and in the follow ing
notes I shall endeavour to juslify my asser-
tions.

Saumarf.z r.\i;K,
the residence of Major-Ge.nkral Camprf.i.i,,
Governor, is the largest residence on
the island, and is surrounded by extensive
gardens and grounds. One of the great fea-
tures of this place is the large collection of
trees and flowering shrubs, which are
-scarcely, if ever, seen in England, unless in
ihe sheltered nooks of Cornwall.

Camellias may be counted by the hundred,
all fine, healthy plants, manv of them rang-
ing from 10 to i6 feet in height. They had
just finished flowering at the time of my visit.
Lapagerias, of the rose and white varieties,
are quite at home and rambling at their own
free will over the gateways in the gardens,
•ndicative of their beauty when in flower.

Here also a fine plant of Embothrium coc-
cineum was in full bloom, and a large speci-

men of Cytisus racemosus fragrans 12 feet
high, which was quite a picture with its
golden yellow blossom. Close by was a large
specimen of Plumbago capensis covering a
wall space of 12 feet by 12, togelher with that
lovely creeper Clianthus puniceus, with its
large clusters of bright red flowers.

I was told these were destroyed to the
ground by frost some 15 years ago, along
with the specimens of Dracaena indivisa, but
they all started again from the lower part of
the stem, and Dracaena indivisa has since
made growth of from 16 to 24 feet in height.
Specimens are frequently met with in num-
bers on the island, and give it an almost
tropical appearance. Many of the best hybrid
Rhododendrons were in full bloom. Planted
singly or in large clumps, as they are here,
with a background of foliage plants, they
present a most attractive appearance at this
season of the year. Fine bushes of Daphne
Blagayana were in full bloom, also Edward-
sia microphylla. Pittosporum Tobira is
planted very extensively, many of the speci-
mens being- 12 feet high, and by the time
these lines are in print thcv will be in fidl
bloom.

A great feature in these gardens is the
Japanese house built by the present Lord
de Saumarez some years ago, all the material
being sent from Japan ; men were also
brought over to carry out the work. The gar.
den .surrounding it is separated from the other
portions of the ground, and planted with a
great variety of trees and shrubs sent over
from Japan. Different varieties of Bamboos
and Pines have made remarkable growth, and
give to the garden a unique appearance.

The glasshouses are rather extensive, the
majoritv being devoted to vines, all of which
are looking very promising. On the back
wall of the greenhouse, which is about 70
feet long by 14 feet high, I saw the finest
jilant of Fortune's Yellow Rose I have ever
had the privilege of seeing. \\'ith the excep-
tion of S feet at one end, it covered the whole
of the wall space, and some hundreds of
blooms are cut annuallv from the trees.

Melons for Markkt.

A special visit was made to Mr. Corbett's
market gardens ; the chief thing grown here
are melons, and I understand that he has
gained the title of the " Melon King."

Gardeners in England are satisfied with a
crop of Melons of from two to three dozen,
but at Mr. Corbett's garden they may be
counted by the thousand. Mr. Corbett is a
most genial man, and has no secrets to keep
from anyone, as he is quite willing to tell
all particulars res[>ecting the growing of the
plants^ from the sowing of the seed until the
fruit is fit to cut.

The houses in which the Melons are grown
range from 200 to 300 feet in length and about
35 feet in width. The plants are grown in
pots 14 inches in diameter and placed close
together in rows along the houses ; the
plants are trained up strings, and each plant
is onlv allowed to carry one fruit each ; .Sut-
ton's Ai is the only variety grown.

It is a sight to see these houses all filled
with plants in the finest possible condition
and in different stages of growth.

Mr. Corbett when we arrived had just
finished cutting the last fruits in one of the
houses, amounting to close upon 400, all per-
fect fruits, and was busy packing them in
oval baskets and boxes, ready to be sent to
London early on the following morning. Mr.
Corbett devotes eight houses Jo Melons alone.

and the crop for the whole of the season
amounted to close on 20,000 fruits.

Mr. Corbett also grows a large quantity of
Tomatos, which were looking remarkably
well.

The Caledonia Nurseuy.

.After leaving Mr. Corbett, we next wended
our way to Messrs. C. Smith and Son's Cale-
donia Nursery, where we met with tlie
kindest attention from Mr. Smith, jun. The
nursery itself is situated in an ideal spot, .
being sheltered from all winds. Here we
found the choicest varieties of Rhododen-
drons in full bloom ; amongst them were fine
plants of R. Kewense, R. grande, R. Thom-
soni, R. Countess of Haddington, and
others too numerous to mention.

Azaleas are also a great feature, fine,
large, healthy plants, all covered with flower-
buds and many in full bloom.

The largest plant of Embothrium cocci-
neum I have ever seen was full of bloom.
.Mr. Smith informed me that it was 20 feet
high. Bamboos are doing remarkably well
here and in great variety. It would be im-
possible to mention a tenth part of the occu-
pants of this most interesting nursery, but
here may be found growing, side by side,
Rhyncospernium, Clianthuses in variety,
Edwardsia microphylla, and scores of other
tender plants, which makes one regret that
one cannot h.ive them in our gardens at
home.

At these nurseries, on the end of a barn,
are growing the finest Cordon Pear trees I
have met with ; they are some 30 feet in
height, and have every prospect of bearing a
heavy crop of fruit, the variety being
Doyenne du Comice.

.\ Market Garden'.

A great treat was in store when we were
privileged to visit the large market establish-
ment of Mr. Bell, who, with characteristic
Icindness, took us over the whole of the glass
department.

Here w^e found Carnations took the premier
place, and I should say we should have to
travel far before we met with such a stock
of fine, healthy plants as are to be found
here. The houses in which they are grown
average from 300 to 400 feet in length and
35 feet in width.

The varieties chiefly grown are Enchant-
ress, a lovely pink variety (this is grown by
the thousand); also Mrs. Lawson, and the
white variety of the last-named Carnation.

Mr. Bell informed me that he grows be-
tween 15,000 and 16,000 plants, ;md I under-
stand it is his intention to exhibit at the
forthcoming Temple Show.

Ait this establishment I saw the finest
houses of Grapes during mv visit, the variety
being Canon Hall Muscat.

Daff'odils are grown by the million all over
the island, but the season was just past, their
place being taken by the Tulips, especially
the Darnin varieties ; these are grown in
tens of thousands bv Messrs. W. Maugf.r
AND Son, who were cutting their first con-
signment on April 26 ; there must be a great
future before these varieties of Tulip, as they
lend themselves to all kinds of decorative pur-
poses, having very long flower-stems and
flowers of every imaginable colour. Spanish
Irises and Gladiolus "The Bride" are quite as
extensively grown and in the finest possible
condition.

One great feature in these gardens is the
movable houses, some four in number, each
being 100 feet in length by 30 feet in width.
Early in the season these were placed over

30G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May U). 1906.

Freesia refracta albn, afterwards moved over*'
large breadths of Ranunculus, which were
just over, and on the day of my visit they
were being' placed over Spanish Irises and
Gladioli. j

I may say these houses may be moved along
the rails by four men. Everything in this
large establishment was in perfect order.

Fig trees are a great feature all over the
island, and below I give the dimensions and
crop of the three largest. No. i, belonging
to Mr. Falla H. Moenge, is 45 feet long by
30 feet. It carries annually some 1,100 dozen
fruit ; this tree is supposed to be over seventy
years old. No. 2 is growing in Mr. La Tis-
sue's garden, and the dimensions of the tree
are 60 feet by 47 feet, and the average crop
for the past three years has been 700 dozen.
No. 3 is owner by Mr. Morrish, who has one
of the largest establishments on the island ;
this tree is 80 feet long by 40 feet, and is
supposed to be 100 years old. It carries four
crops annually, and totals 1,000 dozen fruit.

I heard of several complaints of the insufifi-
ciency of shed room on the quay for the
enormous consignments which are sent from
the island, large piles of boxes containing
fruit, flowers, and vegetables being ex-
posed to the full rays of the sun, which must
be most detrimental to them.

I think if the growers would bring their
case before the two railway companies and
the States, a remedy would soon be found
which would be most beneficial to the growers
and the general public. R. Milner, Margam
Gardens.

VIOLA MARY BURNIE.

The " Viola" is a valuable bedding subject, and
it is adaptable for a variety of uses, thus it can be
planted as a ground-work to beds of taller subjects,
or for massing in beds by itself ; it also makes an
excellent edging plant, while for bands and borders
it is employed in almost every garden. Messrs.
Dobbie & Co., Rothesay, have displayed some
excellent exhibits of these flowers at the recent
meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society, and
among them was a fine variety named Mary
Burnie, shown in fig. 121-. The flower is of a soft
shade of yellow, margined with a narrow band of
violet colour. As will be seen on reference to the
illustration, the flower is of large size and good
shape.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

VIBURNUM CARLESII. Hemsley.

A FIGURE of this new Viburnum appeared in
the Gardeners' Chronicle for October 11, 1902, p. 261 .
The species had previously been described by
Mr. W. B. Hemsley in the Index Flora Sinensis as
long ago as 1888, but it was not until the early part
of 1902 that the living plant was introduced to
cultivation. A single specimen was at that time
sent to Kew from the well-known establishment
of Mr. L. Boehmer, of Yokohama. It has now
flowered for the first time, and proves to be not
only a quite distinct species, but a very charming
one as well. This, indeed, we were led to expect
from Mr. Unger's note which appeared in the
Gardeners' Chronicle above quoted. It is a native
of Corea^ and was introduced from that country
to Japan by Boehmer & Co. in 1897.

To judge from the small plants we at present
know the species by, Viburnum Carlesii is a shrub
of rather open, loose habit, l.'s leaves are small
compared with the common species in cultivation,
being from 1 to 2 inches long, ovate-elliptical, and
irregularly serrate ; both surfaces are covered with
a short tomcntum, especially on the prominent

veins beneath. The flowers are borne on a
terminal cyme 3 to 4 inches across, and are de-
lightfully fragrant. Opinions vary as to what the
fragrance resembles, but to me it most strongly
suggests a combination of Gardenia and Lilium
longiflorum. The flowers are uniform ; that is to
say, the species is not one of those Viburnums
(like our own V. Opulus) which bear two kinds of
flower on one cluster, showy sterile ones and
smaller fertile ones. They are all of the fertile
kind, with the corolla i-inch in diameter, and
having a narrow cylindrical tube. The flower-
buds are pink, and the newly opened blossoms are
faintly suffused with the same colour, but ulti-
mately they become almost or quite pure white.
Nearly every one who sees the inflorescence for
the first time remarks on its close resemblance to
that of a Rondeletia, the flowers being set in the
same compact rounded cluster, and each showing
the same narrow tube.

Hitherto the plant has received some protection
at Kew during the winter, but whether this is really
necessary I do not yet know. Mr. Unger believes it

Irises. Those in flower include I. Charon, a
handsome flower in which the chief colours are
gold and bronze ; I. Antigone, which is a cross
between I. Korolkowi violacea and I. iberica,
has silver-grey and lilac flowers, d.eply veined,
showing the influence of the latter parent to a
great extent. Others equal in beauty are I.
Calypso, I. Psyche, I. Jocaste, I. Isis, I. Hes-
peria, I. Hebe, I. Hera, I. Medusa, and I.
Sironia. Under a south wall the rare Persian
species I. obtusifolia is also opening its fine
)'ellow flowers. In this position it is a robust
grower, but, so far, it has failed to survive a
winter in the open border.'. One of the most
attractive hardy perennials at present is Eu-
phorbia epithymoides, also known as E. poly-
chroma. It makes a compact plant, about 18
inches high, with many steins and heads of
bright yellow inflorescences. A native of Cen-
tral and Eastern Europe, it is generally found
growing on rough wooded hills. A charming
little plant is Physaria didymocarpa. This new
Crucifer belongs to a small genus, the members

Fig. 124. — \I0LA MAKY burnie; colouk, tkimrose yellow, bordered with violet.

to be quite hardy. If this should prove to be so,
the species will make a charming addition to our
hardy shrubs, flowering as it does in April. It is
as easily propagated by means of cuttings as the
other species. W.J. Bean.

KEW NOTES.

Interesting Hardy Plants in Flower.
Since the recent favourable change in the
weather, plants have been developing rapidly,
and many, such as the Candytufts, Aubrietias,
and Trilliums are now at their best, a week or
two later than usual. The dwarf Irises of the
pumila and Chamseiris sections are just begin-
ning to make a show with their flowers of dif-
ferent shades of white, yellow and purple.
Several of the Regelio-cyclus hybrid Irises are
also in bloom with flowers of great beauty and
variety of colouring. This new race promises
to be more amenable to cultivation than the
Oncocyclus secticn, while retaining to a great
extent the conspicuous beauty and remarkable
colouring, gs well as size, of the large t cusi^ion

of which are clo.-el}' allied to Vesicaria. They
are all natives of North-western America, grow-
ing chiefly in mountainous regions on gravelly;
and rocky slopzs. P. didymocarpa is a peren-
nial, forming a rosette of spatulate leaves,
canescent, with a white stellate pubescence.
From the axils of the leaves many leafy stems
are produced on each plant, about 3 inches
high, hearing a raceme of bright yellow flowers.
It is quite hardy, but requires a well-drained
position in stony soil

Tubers of Aponogeton capensis were sent to
Kew last year by Mr. Chalwin, of the Public
Gardens, Cape Town, end it is now flowering
in the hardy aquatic tank. It may be described
as a miniature A. distachyon, with small leaves
on long petioles and small white flowers. It is
apparently closely allied to the South African A.
angustifolium.

The genus Corydalis is well represented bv
the Siberian C. bracteata, with its racemes of
lovely yellow flowers. It is one of the choicest
species, but is not a robust grower like C.
nobilis. This last is also in full bloom, form-
ing a bush-like plant, with handsome foliage-

JIav 19, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

30/

topped witii racemes of yellow and chocolato-
coloH.ed flowers. Cliir.a is represented by the
wooUv-'.eaved C. tomentosa, as well as by C.
tlialictritulia.

Phlox Douglasii is a rare species from the
Rocky Mountains, which varies a good deal in
the colour of its flowers. Those now open are
large and nearly white. It is of tufted habit,
with rigid leaves, aiid generally grows in dry,
.sunny positions in its native habitats.

Two of the most fascinating Tulips are the
brilliant scarlet T. linifolia, with its flowers
close on the ground, ami the v 'Low T. Bata-

between the middle and end of May to see the
Bluebells. There are several Beechwoods in the
neighbourhood of the Lake and Pagoda that are
carpeted with them, also the ground on each side
of the central walk through the Queen's Cottage
grounds. These masses of colour, many acres in
extent, are relieved here and there with patches of
bright green grass with occasional clumps of pink
Lychnis, while out of them rise the stately trunks
of the Beeches, relieved here and there with the
distinct bark of an Oak or Chestnut, the whole be-
ing crowned with a covering of new and bright
green leaves. H'. D.

[Flwla by E. J. Wallis.
Fig. 125. — .\NEMONE PULS.VTILL.V .\S IT FLOVVEKIiD RECENTLY AT KEW.

lini, which is very little higher. They both
come from Central Asia, and are ideal plants
for the rock garden.

Other plants in flower include Epimedium
concinnum and E. rubrura, Polemonium confer-
tum var. mellitum from the Rocky Mountains,
with its white flowers, Phlox divaricata in its
various form of alba, canadensis and laphami ;
Eritillaria recurva. Anemone palmata and var.
.ilba, and t!:e :vory-white Alvssum pyrenaicum.
II'". I.

[.\n illustration of Anemone Pulsatilla as it
recently flowered at Kew is reproduced in fig.
125.— Ed.]

Bluebell-time at Kew.
A great many people who are not specially
interested in plants in general pav a visit to Kew

The Rhododendron Dell at Kew.
One of the most popular features at Kew during
Mayand Juneis the Rhododendron Dell. Situated
in the westerly part of the gardens it runs for a
distance of between 400 and 500 yards between
the Syon Vista at the southerly end, and the
Brentford entrance at the northern end. The
centre is given up to a winding and undulated
gravel path, and on either side the irregular banks
rise in an informal manner to the level of the
ground in the vicinity. On these banks the Rho-
dodendrons are planted and many of them have
assumed large proportions. The varieties are
freely intermixed so that a wide range of colour
is exhibited ; white, pink, blush', rose, red, lilac
and purple blending delightfully together. As a
background there are large deciduous and coni-

ferous trees, and the varied tints of pale green of
the young leaves of the former and the darker
and more sombre hues of the old foliage of Cedar
and Pine, frame, and materially help to complete,
the picture formed by the Rhododendrons below.

Although the Dell is one of the oldest features
at Kew, it is continually being improved, and dur-
ing the past winter a considerable addition has
been made at the south-end, many of the larger
specimens that were becoming crowded and
ruined in the older part being removed to furnish
the new portion.

Of the older varieties, some of the finest speci-
mens now in blossom are : Broughtoni ; Lord
Palmerston ; Macranthum ; Grand Arab ; pur-
pureura splendens ; fastuosum fl. pi. ; The Queen ;
Minnie; Coriaceum; Chas. Noble ; Lady Eleanor
Cathcart, and others. Of more recent sorts may
be seen Lady Clementine Mitford; James Nay-
smith ; Ascot Brilliant ; Michael Waterer ; Helen
Waterer ; Kate Waterer ; Mrs. A. Waterer; J. B.
Hayes ; Mad. ^Carvalho ; Hermit ; Mrs. Hunni-
well ; Sappho ; Old Port ; Amphion ; Alexander
Dancer; Auguste vanGeert ; Doncaster ; Duchess
of Connaught; Lady Grey Egerton ; John Waterer,
and others.

The group raised by crossing various varieties
with the fragrant Chinese species R. Fortunei is
represented by a number of specimens which are
\ erv free in flowering, the flowers being of various
shades of pink. Varieties of R. Griffithianum
parentage include Manglesii, Pink Pearl, Mrs. G.
Paul, Kewense, Ac.

Though species do not predominate in the
Rhododendron Dell, several are to be found,
some of the more noteworthy being R. Fortunei,
R. Smirnowi, R, catawbiense, R. californicum,
K. cinnabarinum , R. campylocarpum, R. camp-
anulatum, and R. fulgens. W. Dallimore.

TREWIDDEN.

About a mile and a half from Penzance, on
the Land's End road, lies Trewidden, the s;at
of Mr. T. B. Bolitho, late member of Parliament
for the Penzance division of Cornwall. The
gardens, which are of considerable extent, con-
tain a very complete collection of rare and ten-
der shrubs and other subjects, almost all of
which, owing to the care exercis:d in their plant,
ing by the head eardener, Mr. George Maddtrn,
are in the best of health. On the side of the
house occupied by the front door many rare
plants are grown, amongst these being Ca.li-
stemon salignus, Clianthus puniceus, the wh.ta
Macartney Rose, Rosa laevigata, Tacsona
exoniensis, Lonicera Hildebrandiana, Hydran-
gea scandens, Abelia floribuna 10 feet in height,
Mitraria coccinea, and Chorizema Lowi. On
the lawn opposite stands a fine Embothrium
coccineum, which is backed at a little distance
by an open wood containing Tree Ferns.
Against a high wall on the opposite side of the
house are growing Trachelospermum jasmin-
oides, Raphiolepis ovata 8 feet in height. Camel-
lia reticulata, Callicarpa purpurea, Berberi- .
dopsis corallina, Cestrura elegans, rose and
white Lapagerias which fruit freely, Proustia
pyrifolia, Vitis Coignetiae,' and V. flexuosa. In
the bed in front of this wall are great bushes of
the Pineapple Salvia, S. rutilans. Passing
through a door, one enters a small walled gar.
den, which formerly containea one of the finest
specimens of Daphniphyllum glaucescens in
England, since dead. Covering the walls are
to be seen Mandevilla suaveolens, Lathyrus
pubescens, Inga pulcherrima, Pentaptery-gium
serpens, Thibaudia acummata, in flower in OctD.
ber. Fuchsia triphylla (covered with brilliant
flower-clusters at the same time), Jasminum
primulinum, a variegated form of Berchemia
racemosa. Plumbago capensis, SoUya hetero.

308

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 19, 1905.

phylla, Kennedya alba, Peiitstsmon. cordifoUus
8 feet high, Lonicera gigantea, Phaenocoma pro-
lifera, Manettia bicolor, Agapetes buxifolia,
Brachysema acuminatum, Lophostemon conferti-
folium, Acacia playtptera, A. ovata, and A. cul-
triformis 8 feet in height and 10 feet across. The
north walk is bordered by fine specimens of the
Fan Pa'm (Trachycarpus excelsus), Phormiums
and Conifers. In the grass on either side are
growing Magnolia hypoleuca 30 feet in height,
Azara microphylla 2J feet, Garrya elliptica and
G. Thureti, Guevina avellana 10 feet high (a
layer from the tree at Greenway, Mr. Bolitho's
seat on the Dart), Viburnum Awafuki 30 feet in
height and 20 feet through. Acacias dealbata,
verticillata, and longifolia, Drimys aromatica,
Andromeda axillaris 6 feet high, Pseudopanax
crassifolium, Cordyline indivisa vera 9 feet
high, Enkianthus japonicus. Hydrangea querci-
folia, several Maples, Acer sanguineum being
12 feet high and 15 feet through, Podocarpus
andina, Jietinospora tetragona aurea. Thuya
gigantea'aurea, and the Parasol Fir (Sciadopitys
verticillata) 20 feet in height.

From the north walk access is .gained to the
north garden, laid out about 14 years ago. This
is a level piece of ground surrounded by wide
borders, backed with Conifers and other trees.
In the border numerous rare shrubs are well
grown. The centre is grassed and contains a
sheet of ornamental water, in which the best
of the Water Lilies are grown, and large in-
formal beds of Cannas and tub3rous Begonias
show up brightly from the green turf. Among
the Oaks growing in this garden may b3 men-
tioned Quercus cuspidata and its variegated
form, Q. roccinea, Q. marylandica, Q. macro-
phylla, and Q. dentata, while of Conifers Abies
nobilis glauca, Cedrus atlantica glauca, Picea
pungens glauca, Kosteri, and Abies Webbiana
are noteworthy. In the fine collection of shrubs
are Buddleia Co'.villei — which has flowered,
Stuartia pseudo-Camellia, Exochorda grandi-
flora, Styrix Obassia 10 feet high, Desfontainea
spinosa, Aralia palmata, Abutilon vitifolium,
Acacia armata, Gingko biloba. Magnolia macro.
])hylla and M. Watsoni. Here also may be
found what is probably the finest specimen of
Eucryphia pinnatifolia in the British Isles, 18
feet in height and 15 feet through, which every
August is a mass of white blossoms. The fol-
lowing are also worthy of mention: Eucryphia
cordifolia, Feijoa Sellowiana, C^esalpinia ja-
ponica, 7 feet high and 9 feet through, Eupa-
torium micranthum, Choisya ternata, Styrax
japonica, 12 feet by 12 feet, Griselinia macro-
phylla, 20 feet in height, Schinus terebinthi-
folia, Ozothamnus rosraarinifolius — a splendid
specimen 15 feet in height and as much in
diameter, Calceolaria violacea, Leptospermum
scoparium, Araucaria Bidwilli, Romneya Coul-
teri, Tricuspidavia lanceolata, Castanea chryso-
phylla, Perowskia atriplicifolia — a pretty shrub
with grey foliage, bearing long sprays of
lavender flowers in October^ Davidia involu-
crata, Drimys Winteri, Fabiana imbricata,
Kaphiolepis Delacourii, R. indica, Cleroden-
dron trichotomum, Euryops virgineus, Pavia
marrostachya, Koelreuteria paniculata, Coton.
faster pannosa, Nandina domestica, Cerasus
Watereri, 25 feet high, Amelanchier canadensis,
very beautiful in the early spring when in
flower, and also in its autumn tints, Gordonia
grandis, Fatsia Sieboldi, Cassia biflora,
Solanum crispum, Grevillea thyrsoides, Staphy-
lea Columbieri, Pomaderris argentea, Medicago
arborea- -Clearing orange-yellow flowers in Octo-
ber, Escallonia Phillipiana, E. langleyensis x ,
and a white-flowered seedling, one of the parents
of which is apparently E. macraiitha, which ap-
peared at Trewidden many years ago, and has
been provisionally named E. Bedfordi x . The
largest shrub of this is about 25 feet in height.

and as much through, and was in full flower
at the time of my visit. Phormiums in this
garden have attained a height of 12 feet, and
Cocos campestris, Cordyline australis atropur-
purea, C. Hookeri, and Yucca gloriosa variegata
are doing well. Among other plants observed
were Senecio grandiflorus, S. clivorum in flower,
and Echium callithyrsum, 6 feet through.

Passing to the west garden by a winding path
through trees, one comes upon a deep depres-
sion in the ground which tradition holds to
have been the first tin mine in Cornwall. This
is very informal in contour, and is filled with
fino Tree Ferns, some of whose fronds are over
10 feet in length, and giant Gunneras. Passing
along a narrow path that runs, high up, at one
side of the dell, the head of a fine Embothrium
coccineum is seen, that in the spring is a blaze
of scarlet ; there are eight of these brilliant-
flowered trees in the Trewidden Gardens. In
the west garden, well sheltered by evergreen
trees, are Musa Ensete, a handsome Clethra ar-
borea, 15 feet in height, Corokia buddleoides, 10
feet high, and numerous Rhododendrons, o[
which the following are grown- R. grande (or
argenteum), wliich flowers at the end of January,
R. Shilscni, R. barbatura, R. Falconeri, R. Grif-
fithianum, R. Thomsoni, R. calophyllum, R.
campylocarpum, R. glaucum, R. campanulatum,
R. Nuttalli, R. eximium, R. racemosum, R. ar-
boreum in variety, R. Roylei, R. Maddeni, R.
Beauty of Tremough, R. Countess of Hadding-
ton, U. Pink Pearl, R. Mrs. Henry Shilson, and
many others. In the rock garden, furnished with
masses of granite, over which Arenaria balearica
and Gaultheria procumbens have spread, the
best of the Erythroniums, FritiUarias, bulbous
Irises, Ixias, Sparaxis, and Lilies are grown.
Schizocodon soldanelloides was looking very
healthy, as were Shortia galacifolia, Morisia
hypogasa, Pourettia mexicana, Primula mega-
seaiefolia, P. rosea, Gerbera Jamesoni, Celmisias
coriacea, and C. Munroi — the last, 2 feet
across. Crocosmia imperialis was in fine bloom,
Fuchsia microphylla was bearing its small red
flowers, and the blossoms of a bush of Hy-
drangea Mariesi were of a fine blue.

Across the kitchen garden a high retaining
wall has lately been built, facing due south,
and against this a number' of rare exotics have
been planted, that in a few years' time should
provide one of the most interesting and beauti-
ful features of the grounds. They comprise
Correa cardinalis. Calceolaria Burbidgei — in
flower in October, Lagerstrcemia indica, also in
flower at the time of my visit in October, Cantua
dependens, Lotus peliorliynchus. Hibiscus bril-
liantissimus, Dimorphotheca Ecklonis, Lasian-
dra macrantha, Ilibbertia dentata, Abutilon
vexillarium variegatum, Russellia Lemoinei,
bearing scarlet tubular fiowcrs, Swainsonia, ros.-
and white in flower, Grevillea Preissi, Strepto-
solen Jamesoni, Bignonia capreolata, Genetyllis
fuchsioides in bud, Alonsoa Warscewiczi in fuli
bloom, Alberta magna, Tetracera ericoides, Les.
chenaultia biloba major, Solanum Wendlandi,
Csesalpinia Gilliesii, Cassia marylandica, C.
corymbosum in full bloom, Bougainvillea
glabra, Eriostemon buxifolium, Adenocarpus
frankenioides, Anagyris foetida, Aphelexis fasci-
culata, Mimulus glutinosus, Cestrum Parqui,
Tacsonia quitensis in flower, and Maurandia
scandens. Amongst other plants in the bed far.
ing the wall were Incarvillea variabilis, Myoso.
tidium nobile, Astilbe Davidii, Senecio tangu-
ticus, and Rehmannia angulata. The road from
the lodge to Penzance is faced for some dis-
tance with ornamental shrubs of many kinds,
including Veronicas, Fuchsias, variegated Elea?.
nus, Teucrium fruticans, Prunus Pissardi.
Choisya ternata, Escallonias, Hydrangeas, Cas-
sinia fulvida, Rhus Cotinus, Tree Heaths,
Griselinia, Olearias, Brooms^ Rhododendrons,

Fats'as, Cytisus racemosus, Berbers Thunbergi,
B. stenophylla, B. Darwini, Ci.rdylines, and
Phormiums. In other parts of the giound many-
great clumps of Eryngium pandanifolium, with
dozens of towering flower-spikes, were very-
handsome at the time of my visit. S. W. F:U-
hcrlcrt.

THE PROPAGATOR.

Centaurea candidissima.

This is rather a difficult subject to strike frorrr
cuttings taken in the usual manner, and the
operator will be more successful if he stops
the shoots on the mother plants which show
flower-buds, in order to induce the formation of
further shoots. When these have made from five
to six leaves pull them almost away, just leaving
them attached by the rind to the mother plant.
These should so remain for a week, during which
time they will remain fresh and healthy, and the
wound will callus, a most essential point in avert-
ing decay in the cuttings. The cuttings may be
then detached, placed singly in small pots filled
with sandy loam, and plunged in a bed having a
bottom warmth of 5G° to 62° Fahr. The best
time is the beginning of July ; but an earlier
date maybe chosen, if a large stock of plants is.
looked for.

Ipomcea insignis, Horskalli.-e and ternata.

These strike freely from strong side-shoots taken
with the eyes, and placed in sandy leaf-mould
1 inch deep, and sunk in a bed having a bottom
heat of 75" to 80° Fiilir., covered with a bell-
glass, and kept moderately moist. The cuttings-
soon push forth roots when they should be potted
in peat, leaf-mould and a little sand, except the
species 1. purga, which does best if loam be addetl
to the other ingredients. The growth of the
young plants must be maintained as long as pos-
sible during the winter, so that drying oft may bo
avoided to a late period, and with this intent, they
should be placed in the warmest part of the stove,
and in the case of the last-named close to the
glass.

ACROTRICHE.

These may be struck from cuttings in this
month, or in September in peat J and washed
silver sand f , under bell glasses, in a temperature
of CS^-SS" Fahr. The leaves at the base should
be removed with a knife.

Bamehsa.

It is a favourable month for propagating Bam-
boos from the underground rhizomes, which
should be cut into pieces consisting of two knots
or joints, and laid on a hot bed of tree leaves and
stable dung, covered with a mi.xture of peat and
garden soil, the former in the proportion of J and
the latter J, the entire layer being 2 inches deep,
and covering the cuttings with the mixture about
j- inch. The surface of the bed should be not
more than 2 or 3 inches below the sashes, and the
bed possess a continuous bottom heat of about 70"
Fcihr. With this degree of warmth and moderate
applications of water, the joints of the rhizomes
exhibit shoots, at the base of which roots form
subsequently, and when nicely developed these
may be detached together with a portion of the
rhizome, and potted up, placing the pots on a
warm bed for further developement. Those por-
tions that remain over may be replanted as before.
Chorizema.

Cuttings of the half-ripened shoots, with a heel
of the older wood, may now be taken. They may
be struck in sandy peat surfaced with sand, under
a bell glass in a temperature of 50'' to 55", and a
moderate degree of moisture.
Boronia,

The species B. serrulata should be brought into
growth ere the cuttings are taken, and these should
consist of the points of the new shoots, cutting
them square across under a bud, and removing the

May 19, 1306.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

F.09

lower leaves with a sharp pair of scissors. The
cuttings should be put into pots of sandy peat,
covered with a bell glass having an opening at the
top ana bottom, rieat is not required, and only a
moderate amount of water. The ordinary pro-
pagatmg house is a suitable place for them. B.
megastigma, a. heterophyila and others should
be propagated from ripe wood, and the cuttings
may have a length of 3 to 4 inches.

Artocarpus.
Those gardeners wno possess a specimen of A.
incisa, Bread Fruit tree, and may care to increase
their stock ol this plant may do so by fastening a
small pot, filled with soil, round the leading
shoot, and in two months it will be rooted and
may be removed, as is done with Cordylines.
Codiaeums, <S:c. After the removal of the rooted
leader side-shoots will form, wnich are suitable for
use as cuttings. These should be cut off at a
length of 5 inches, possess 3 to 5 leaves, and be taken
close up to the stem. Place them in a mixture of

MAN U RIAL VALUE
SEA-WEED.

OF

Sea-weed, or vraic, as it is sometimes called, is
highly valuable as manure, and as such is largely
used in the Channel Islands and on lands in the
vicinity of the sea coast of our own country. Mr.
F. W. Toms, F.C.S., the official analyst of Jersey,
has been at some pains to test by repeated analysis
the range of chemical composition usually met
with in these plants. A ton of fresh weed free
from sand contains about 15 cwt. of w'ater, 4 cwt.
of organic matter, and 1 cwt. of mineral matter.
In the 4 cwt. of organic matter there will be found
8 to 14 lb. of nitrogen (equal from 10 to 17 lb. of
ammonia), 15 to 20 lb. of potash, 10 to 12 lb. of
lime, 30 to 40 lb. of common salt, and 2 to 6 lb.
phosphoric acid. Sea- weeds are of value for keep-
ing the ground moist, in addition to supplying
plant-food constituents. The writer has seen some
remarkably good Asparagus grown in very poor
sandy soil by the aid of Sea-weed alone. Thev

tains scarcely more than one-half of the valuable
ingredients found in the other two species. It may
be mentioned incidentally that there is far more
iodine in " coUey " than in shore weeds. The
amount of iodine in the different varieties of
Laminaria ranges from 4 to 5 lbs. per ton ; the
amount of bromine is about one-tenth the iodine.

The great defect of Sea- weed as a manure is the
immense amount of water it contains (70 to 80 per
cent, of its weight). This renders cartage expen-
sive. Dry weed which has been carefully harvested
is three or four times as valuable as the fresh
weed. If. however, it has been washed by rain
when drying, some of its most valuable constituents
are sure to have been lost. For cold and heavy
land, or for land which has become sour or acid
from want of lime, vraic ash is better than the
fresh weed, but as a general rule it seems undesir-
able to burn vraic, as thereby the nitrogenous sub-
stance in it which is valuable, and by no means-
inconsiderable, is lost.

The growth of Sea-weed is found to be twice as.

Fig. 126. — oDONTOGLossuM cmsPUM "queen of the earth."

leaf-mould of 1 part, sandy or light loam 1 part,
and sand 1 part ; over all an inch layer of sharp,
clean sand should be spread. The cuttings, with
all their leaves on them, should be inserted
without loss of time, and at the first receive only a
moderate quantity of water — that is, till the wound
should form a callus, the sap being of a milky
nature. The cuttings require a bottom heat of
about SO" Fahr.

Miscellaneous.
Evergreens of many species may now be layered,
and if the layers are ol the present year's growth
they will root readily. Violets, both double and
single-flowered varieties, may be taken up and the
strongest young rooted runners separated from
the mother plants, the roots slightly shortened,
and be planted at a foot apart in lines in some
half shady part of ihe garden ; as, for instance,
the midway spaces between the Currant or Goose-
berry tushes. They should be firmly planted
■with a dibber and the soil kept moist, especially
in hot weather. F. M.

contain a high proportion of soda compounds,
especially sodium chloride (common salt). This
is most marked in shore-weeds, and at one time
these were burnt for the alkali they contained.
Cattle appear to appreciate grass that has been
top-dressed with vraic, doubtless on account of
the agreeable flavour derived from the salt. The
constituent, however, to wnich 3ea-weed owes its
chief value as a fertiliser is potash.

This element stimulates the growth of Clovers in
pasture lands, and is especially valuable for soils
in which Potatos, Beans, Peas, or Tomatos are
intended to be grown. The species that are the
richer m potash are those from deep water, notably
the several varieties of Laminaria — the streamer-
iike and the palm leaf " colleys," collected chiefly
on the western shores of Jersey, and which is cast
up in large quantities after storms. Of the cut
weeds, Fucus serratus, or fiat vraic, brought in by
the boats is best ; next in quality is the twin
bladder vraic — Fucus vesiculosus — and lastly, the
knobbed vraic. or sea whistles — Fucus nodosus —
found growing near to the shore, but which con-

lu.xuriant in summer as in winter, and analysis
indicates that the weed cut in the autumn is less-
valuable in composition than that cut earlier in
the year. /. /. Willis.

ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM
"QUEEN OF THE EARTH."

Our illustration (fig. 126) represents the beauti-
ful Odontoglossum, bearing the above name, irb
the collection of de Bary Crawshay, Esq., Rose-
field, Sevenoaks (gr. Mr. Stables). It first ap-
peared in the sale-rooms of Messrs. Protheroe and
Morris, March 23 last, M. Chas. Vuylsteke being
then the owner. At the time the question was-
raised as to whether it was not a reversion from O.
X ardentissimum towards its parent O. crispum.
In any case it is a most beautiful flower, with the-
nch rose-purple markings of O. x ardentissimum
but with the lip of O. crispum. and its fine quali-
ties as a showy Odontoglossum are unquestion-
able.

SIO

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May ]9, 1906,

FREESIAS FROM SEED.

Not so many _veais ago the Freesia was a
comparatively uncommon flower, and certa;inly
not appjecialed at its full value, either as a pot
plant or as one of the best for cutting purposes.
Within more recent times Freesia bulbs have
become a good deal cheaper than they were, and
as a natural lesult the flower is now more com-
monly seen^ although probably only a very small
percentage of those blooms which we see in the
florists' windows were grown within the United
Kingdom. However that may be, it is still
evident that there' are many whp do not yet
realise.; the :.possibilities of this most charming
Cape flow^er, which, as a matter of fact, is by
no means difficult to grow, even, in the mott
humble establishment.

The average Freesia blooms that one sees in
the shops or in the small greenhouse of the
amateur are by no means perfect examples of the
flower, and the chief fault of the grower seems
to be found in the fact that'the Freesia is too
.often coddled to an extent which it dislikes ex-
ceedingly, with the result that the plants grow
weakly, requiring support both for the blooms
and leaves to prevent them from collapsing over
the edges of the pot. The Freesia when properly
grown requires no support whatever, either for
its leaves' or blooms, and both of them should
stand up as firmly and erect as the leaf or flovi'er
stems of the Gladiolus or the common purple
"flag." •■

It is the usual custom to pot four or five
Freesia bulbs in a 6-inch pot, in July or August,
letting the pots stand outside until frost
threatens, when they are removed into a gentle
lieat. The ordinary treatment of Freesia bulbs
potted' in the summer is generally known, and it
is not necessary heie to say anything beyond
making mention of the fact that the plants
should be kept in a moderate temperature of 55"
to 65° Fahr. throughout, and be placed as near
the glass as possible. They will then bloom
about the end of November or early in Decem-
ber, and will last fairly well if well watered and
kept a little cooler when in bloom.

But those who wish to have Freesias at their
best over a long period will grow them from
seed. There is only one drawback to the pro-
cess, this being that it is impossible to get the
flowers true to type. That, however, is really a
slight drawback and of no importance except to
those who desire pure white blooms only. Those
splashed with yellow are quite as handsome and
as fragrant. -. The seed may be sown at any time
from JVIarch onwards, five or six seeds to a
6-inch pot, the soil consisting of a good fibrous
loam with a plentiful admixture of sand and leaf
mould, with a little well-decayed manure added.
The seeds should be sown about an inch deep
in rather fine soil and covered up firmly, after-
wards being placed on a shelf near the glass
and shaded from bright sun. Freesias are slow
in .germinating, and are often six weeks in
coming up. In the early stages they must not
be hurried, and watering at all times must be
■carefully attended to. As soon as they are an
inch or so high the young plants may be removed
to a cool frame to harden off, and thence they
will go into the open for the summer, standing
in an airy, but shady, place until frost comes
in the autumn, when they should bo taken into
jjentle heat. When tl-.e buds appear, weak liquid
manure may be given, but " artificial '' is not re-
commended. Thus treated, the Freesias should
provide a profusion of bloom, which, with succes.
sius batches a fortnight apart, will make the
greenhouse gay from October to March. The
following spring seed may be sown again, if
desired, but the grower will have a good supply
of large bulbs by him as the result of the pre-
vious year's sowing. Freesia blooms last so
well as a pot plant or in water that everyone
with gentle heat in a small greenhouse should
try growing a few from seed. East Sussex.

The Week's Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. II.WimE, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Phalmtopsis. — Plants of the different varieties of
Phalaenopsis, mentioned in my Calendar for Feb-
ruary 17, and others such as P. Rimestadtiana,
P. Luddemanniana, P. Esmeralda, P. speciosa, P.
rosea, P. fasciata, P. Sanderiana, P. Stuartiana,
and the almost deciduous P. Lowii are now com-
mencing to make leaf growth, whilst new roots
are beginning to push out from the base of the
growths, and many of the old roots to start afresh.
.4.11 these plants should now be examined to
ascertain if they require more rooting space or if
the sphagnum-moss has decayed, rendering fresh
moss necessary. Phalsenopsis may be cultivated
in alm.ost any kind of receptacle, and as regards
potting material they do not appear to be particular
whether it be peat, sphagnum-moss, or leaf soil,
with small crocks intermixed with either. The
plants 'will thrive equally well in a mixture of
these ingredients. The principal requirements of
Phalffitiopsis during their growing season are heat,
moisture, air, shade, and an evenly balanced
atmospheric temperature. Whenever it is thought
necessary to give the plants more rooting space,
great care should be taken not to injure the old
roots by detaching them from what they may be .
clinging to, the points of the roots being especially
susceptible of injury. Several years ago some of
the Phalaenopsis at Burford, which were thoroughly
well rooted in Teak w'ood baskets, required more
rooting space ; this we afforded, first by carefully
removing all the old potting material, and then by
placing the baskets into larger ones, filling the
space with crocks, and putting on the surface a
thin layer of clean picked sphagnum-moss. By
this plan no roots were injured, nor did the
plants receive any check ; some of them have now
from a dozen to twenty fine healthy leaves, and
this season have produced from 50 to 80 flowers on
each spike. I find that Phalsnopsis will produce
healthy foliage if planted in pots or shallow
pans in a mixture consisting of three parts of leaf
soil , the other part being peat , sphagnum-moss, and
small crocks. Potted in this mixture the plants
send up fairly good spikes, but the flowers
generally are deficient in size and substance, and
the leaves, being unable to bear the strain of
flowering, quickly shrivel and become soft to the
touch. After attending to their immediate require-
ments, place the plants on the shady side of the
East Indian house or in a similar position in the
warm, humid atmosphere of the plant stove.
Keep the surface moss in a growing condition by
slightly sprinkling it with the fine sprayer or a
fine rose watering can whenever it appears to be
-getting dry, but when the roots are seen creeping
about and the new leaf growth is advancing satis-
factorily, a more abundant supply of water is
necessarj'. Not so much is required immediately
around the collar of the plant as around the
receptacle it is in. Plants of P, Sumatrana, P.
viola.ea, and others that are sending up spikes
need not be disturbed until the flowers have been
cut, Thrips are exceedingly fond of the suc-
culent leaves, and if not eradicated will quickly
disfigure them, Whether these insects be present
or not, careful and periodical spongings of the
leaves with tepid soft water are advisable.

weekly. In most Ferneries are large quantities
of young self-sown seedlings ; these will prove
very useful if they are potted in small pots
and grown m a mixture consisting of three parts
fine peat, siftings of crocks, and sand. A re-
arrangement of the inmates of the Fernery
sometimes becomes necessary in order to pre-
vent overcrowding, a condition which often
results in damping, and consequent disfigure-
ment of the plants. iKeep a sharp look out for
slugs, as they are most destructive pests. Late
evening is the best time to trap them, for they
usually come then to feed on the young fronds.

Gcrbcra Jamcsoni, or Barbfrton Daisy, as it is
called in Natal, of which country it is a native,
is a handsome flowering plant, but little grown
in gardens. It is of value for providing cut
flowers for dinner-table decoration, the intensely
rich orange-scarlet colour of the flowers, com-
bined with stems 10 inches to a foot in length,
rendering it most suitable for the purpose. If
placed in a light position, close to the glass, in a
warm greenhouse, and frequent applications of
weak liquid manure afforded, the plants will de-
velop rtrong crowns, from the centres of which
the flowers are produced in profusion. The rich
colour of the flowers becomes intensified when
the plants are grown in a somewhat dry atmos-
phere and in full sunshine. A compost suit-
able to its requirements is one-half rough peat,
together with loam, dried cow manure, and a
free mi.xture of Oporto gravel or sand. The
gravel contains a large percentage of flint
pebbles, which are common in the soil of its
native habitat.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T, Sutton Timmis, Esq.,

Cleveley, Alierton, Liverpool.
The Fernery. — As most Ferns are now in
active growth, an adequate amount of moisture
must be supplied to their roots, and a humid
atmosphere maintained about them. The
fronds, when in a soft growing state, exhale a
considerable amount of water, hence they are
liable to sirffer in a dry atmosphere, and,
further, a dry condition favours the in-
crease of thrips, the worst insect pest the
Fern cultivator has to contend with. Proper
shading must be afforded, for if the plants are
unduly, exposed to bright sunshine for any con-
siderable length of time, disastrous results will
follow. A subdued light is suitable to most
kinds of Ferns, but the following varieties
should be fairly exposed to sunshine in order to
obtain highly coloured tints in their foliage: —
Adiantum Farleyense, A. gracillimum, A. tinc-
tum, and A. rubellum. Plants growing in
baskets will need frequent watering, and if
hung in positions where the fronds will become
drawn to one side, the baskets should be turned

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Ganleuer to tbe Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Spring; Bedding. — Last week's notes dealt with
the advisability of preparing for next year's spring
bedding by propagating Aubrietia and Arabis by
means of cuttings as soon as possible. The
same is applicable to Alyssum saxatile. Unfor-
tunately this plant, which makes such a brilliant
show of rich golden colour throughout April and
May, is not so easily increased as either of the
former mentioned plants. The grow'.h is semi-
woody and takes some time to root, while also there
is more diSiculty in obtaining the suitable growth
for cuttings from the old plants. But it is such a
valuable spring bedder that it is worth taking
pains and time to work up a sufficient stock to use
It in masses. It grows well in any soil, if it is
light and open and free from shade. Iberis sem-
pervirens, the hardy evergreen white flowering
Candytuft, is another useful spring bedder that
should be propagated now by cuttings. It com-
mences to bloom early in March and lasts into
May, and when planted in masses forms an admir-
able sheet of white. For associating with the
plants already referred to, there are few early
flowers more effective than some of the distinct
coloured varieties of the tufted Pansy (Bedding
Viola). For ordinary summer display, the best
time to propagate is in autumn, but for spring
bedding purposes the cuttings should be taken off
any time now, and dibbled into a prepared bed of
soil in a shallow frame. When the cuttings have
made roots the lights should be removed entirely.
By October they will have developed into sturdy
plants fit for planting out into the beds. These
beds ought to be well-manured beforehand, as
the Pansy requires a rich and heavy soil. The
Polyanthus is another invaluable spring b'e'lder,
particularly the rich yellow coloured ones. The
red coloured varieties, or Fancy Polyanthus, are
not so well adapted for the purpose, for to enjoy
their beauty they need to be viewed rather closely,
while a mass of deep yellow Polyanthus is effec-
tive even when s«;en from a distance. They are
easily propagated by division at the present time,
and thus planted in nursery rows. They grow well
in almost any garden soil, but prefer one that is
rich and moist, and a position in partial shade.
Treated thus they form strong,, flowering-plants
for planting out in October. When planting them
m October care should be taken to plant thickly,
as niggardly planting would result in their producing
only a very poor effect. The Polyanthus can also
be easily raised by sowing seeds in the present
.nonth. The Garden Daisies (Bellis perennis hor-
tensis) in their effective red, pink and white colours
are so attractive that they must not be omitted
from any scheme of spring bedding'.. Their pro-
pagation is of the simplest, and should be under-
taken during the next week or so. It is only neces-
sary to pull the old plants to pieces, and dibble

ilAV 19, 1C08.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

311

them firmly into well-dug ground in the nursery,
planting them in rows G inches apart. In October
they can be lifted and planted into their flowering-
beds. .The Daisy comes very true from seed, so
anyone not possessing stock can readily obtain
sufficient plants for next year's bedding by sowing
at once, either in boxes in a frame, or on a pre-
pared border in a sheltered, shady position out-
of-doors. When the seedlings are large enough,
transplant them into nursery rows, 3 inches apart,
where they may remain until the beds are ready
for their reception in October.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BlRKlNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir CiiAS.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, UedfordshirL.

Pines. — The first batch of ■' Queens " that have
passed their flowering period, and have com-
menced swelling their iruits, will need to be
liberally supplied with tepid water at the roots
about every third or fourth day. Plants on
which the fruit has nearly grown to its full
size, and already shows signs of colouring will
not need such a liberal supply, and it may
be further restricted as the fruit approaches
a condition of maturity. If water were
afforded liberally until the fruit ripened, the
flavour which English-g;rown Pineapples pos-
sess when properly cultivated would be want-
ing. It is sometimes necessary to keep
Pir.e^, when ripe, for use on some particular
occr-son, and when this is the case they should
be pUced in the fruit room, in the pots as they
have been growing. They will keep for a week
or more in this way without losing flavour, or
shrivelling, but must not be given any water at
their root's. Plan s that are growing freely re-
quire much atmospheric moisture, and the tem.
perature at night should be kept at lil\ allowing
a rise of 10° to 15° during the day. Rather less
artificial heat than formerly will now be wanted
to keep the atmosphere of the house or pits at
its piop?r temperature. Close the houses CTirly
in the afternoons, and spray the plants lightly
overhead with the syringe. If the plants were
syringed too heav.ly, it would cause the crowns
to grow too fast, and hinder the development
of the fru.'t. Weak doses of liqrid manure and
Peruvian guano may be given alternately once or
twice eac'.i week to such plants as possess plenty
of roots, also a littls soot water occasionally.

Successinnal Plants that were placed in their
final pots two months ago will now be making
gcod progress both m roots and foliage. Great
'■are is rercssary 'n affording w aler, it being very
important to prevent the soil from becoming
sour. If the plants can be grown successfully
without shading, so much the better, but when
they have been freshly potted or planted out,
the plants require a little shade from hot sun-
shire for a few days. Commence to take off
suckers, and pot them in 6-inch pots, in turfy
loam with n little sand and wood asVes mixed
together. Plunge the po s in gocd bottom heat,
and ightly syrirg; the p'ants e:ch dsy, keeping
them in a rather clos5 rtmosphere until they
have made roots. The plants will no[ require
much water at their roots beyond what they will
get from the syringe, until they have filled the
pots with roots.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Peach Blister (Exoascus deformans). — This disease
is found early in the season when the tempera-
ture is cold at night. The leaves suddenly become
thick, fleshy, and distorted, and even the young
shoots sometimes become enlarged and twisted,
and are often completely spoilt, for the disease
often results in a small tuft of stunted growth
being formed at the ends of the branches. The
best remedy when the shoots are afiected is to cut
them away and burn them, for it is said that once
a branch becomes affected the fungus continues
to grow in the tissues, and, later, passes into the leaf
buds.' In the case of diseased leaves they should
all be hand-picked and burned. I do not think
the disease is transmitted from year to year, for
all the trees do not fall a prey to it, nor are the
same trees attacked in successive seasons. The
intensity of the disease depends almost entirely
upon the prevailing climatic conditions. If the
weather is genial and the plants' growth is un-
checked until the leaves are developed, blister and
curl are practically absent, whereas if cold winds

and severe weather sets in the disease at once
appears, and it is especially prevalent when warm
days and cold nights obtain. As a cure, or partial
preventive, the trees should be sprayed with
some fungicide. .\ suitable dressing is made of
10 lbs. of sulphate of copper, 5 lbs. of lime, and
50 gallons of water. The sulphate should be dis-
solved in a vessel of cold water, and the lime
should be slaked in another, after which the water
should be added. The vessel used for mixing the
sulphate of copper must not be used for culinary
purpose as the sulphate is poisonous. .\n earthen-
ware or wooden receptacle should be used, as
the liquid corrodes metals. Some varieties of
Peaches and Nectarines take the disease much
more readily than others. .\ tree of Lord Napier
Nectarine was the first I noticed attacked, and
this variety is affected more or less every year.
Royal George, Early Silver, Hales, and Belle-
garde are other varieties liable to an attack,
whereas Sea Eagle is almost immune.

Spraying. — The spraying engine should be kept
at work to combat aphides and red spider, for if
the trees are kept clear of these pests during the
early stages of their growth they will, with the
advent of warmer weather, grow sufficiently
vigorous to more or less repel their attacks, and
they can at this later stage be easily kept clean.

Watering. ^See that trees planted against south
walls are not suffering from a lack of moisture.
When watering give a thorough soaking for several
feet around the base of the trees. Many sickly
trees do not obtain a sufficient supply of water at
this season.

Pears, Cherries and .iprievts. — Examine the trees
for the presence of sawflies, for their repulsi\e-
looking larva; are most destructive to the foliage
of these trees. They are found both on the upper
and on the lower side of the leaves, and should be
destroyed with the finger and thumb. This slug-
worm, as it is sometimes called, eats away the
upper surface of the leaves and soon makes the
trees appear unsightly in addition to causing
the fruits to drop from insufficient assimilatory
and transpiring surface. If measures are taken in
the autumn and winter the pup^ can be more or
less destroyed at the roots of the trees. .\ good
spraying with Richard's XL-All wash will help to
clear the foliage of the pests, after which the
trees should be gone o\er carefully and the re-
maining larvffi or caterpillars destroyed. The
majority of Apple and Pear trees are blooming
remarkably well ; and with favourable weather
we may reasonably expect a fine show of fruit.
Barnack Beauty and Norfolk Dumpling Apples
have very dark pink flowers that are extremely
pretty, the trees being conspicuous objects among
a hundred or more varieties.

General ti-ork. — Disbudding should now be car-
ried out m earnest. Mulch all fruit trees and keep
the surface of the soil about them clean, and
free from weeds and suckers. Attend to the water-
ing of all fruit trees that may require it. Make
grafts secure by tying (as recommended in a pre-
vious Calendar) in order to protect them from the
■wind. Keep nursery quarters clean. Train and
disbud young stocks, cutting, &.c.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Tomatos in Frames. — In gardens where glass-
houses are scarce, good crops of these fruits can
always be obtained providing a few frames can be
spared for the purpose. Prepare narrow boxes
12 inches wide and the same in depth and fill them
with two parts good turfy loam, one half each of
wood ashes and horse droppings. Press the soil
firmly about the plants, place in frames and keep
the structure close and shaded for a day or two,
when the plants will soon make good headway
and later giv'e an abundance of fruit. Train the
plants to a single stem. A stake should be fixed
by each plant to enable them to be trained so that
the foliage does not come in too close contact with
the glass.

Spring Cabbages. — If the ground is not otherwise
required, the roots should be left in the ground
after the heads are cut. The stems, in due course,
will form numerous sprouts, which, to my mind,
are much more tender in eating than the original
heads. It is astonishing how useful these are,
and often, too, at a time when there is a scarcity
of this vegetable, which is often the case in early
winter.

Potatos. — Old tubers stored in pits or clamps
should be looked over and have their young

growths rubbed away, otherwise their edible and
cooking qualities will soon be lost. Keep the
tubers as cool as is possible and free from the
light. If a succession of new Potatos is re-
quired, select good tubers for seed purposes and
plant a few at intervals of a fortnight during the
next three months. It is surprising how these old
tubers will, without top growth and after they
have been rested and had their sprouts rigidly-
rubbed off, produce a quantity of young ones.

Rhubarb. — Plants intended for forcing next winter
should not have their leaves pulled severely in
order to allow the crowns to become as strong as
is possible. If the clumps are at all weak give
them a good dressing of dung or liquid mapure.
Newly planted stools should receive a top dressing
of some suitable material to encourage growth,
which will never make rapid progress unless it be
early in the season.

Thinning Carrots. — This work should be per-
formed early, and before the plants have become
too strong and have their roots entwined together.
Draw a small quantity of soil near each plant to
prevent injury from wind, for it the Carrots are
twisted good straight roots cannot be expected.
Loosen the soil deeply between the lines with the
hoe. The above remarks apply also to seedling
Parsnips, Beetroot, &c., for nothing is more detri-
mental to the growth of root crops than neglect at
the thinning periods. A dressing of soot at the
time of thinning is an excellent procedure, for it
falls into the openings made round the roots, thus
preventing insects taking advantage of the exposure
of the roots.

Leeks. — The remaining portion of the main crop
of this vegetable should at once be lifted to check
further growth and the development of seed stems-
which are formed at this season. Lay them behind
a shady wall where it is cool, to be used as re-
quired. Good Leeks are very useful at this season
of the year. The space they have occupied can
be made use of for planting Celery, and if the
ridges be immediately thrown up the ground will
look tidy and in order. Leeks sown early in the
present year and left over from the first planting
should be planted to form part of a main crop and
treated accordingly.

THE APIARY.

tiv Chi.oki^.

I'niiing : Why it is done. — It is often found
in the spring that a stock has dwindled and
become very weak, and in some cases the queen
is missing, owing, perhaps, to careless manipu-
lation. If the colony has a queen, to keep such
an one through the summer would produce no
surplus honey, because the queen only lays as-
many eggs as can be kept w-arm by the occu-
pants ot the hive. In this case the increase-
would be progressing eo slowly that the sum-
mer would hive passed before the colony could
be termed a : toiig one. Having decided which
colonies are to be united, move on© hive to-
wards the other at the rate of two or three
feet a day. It the one hive is queenless, when
they are qu.te close tcgether, the queenless bees,
will unite o; their own fres will with the other.s-
headtd by a quce.i. If both stocks have queens,
retain the better one, and cage the other in
case the former be killed. Choose a day when
the lees are net flying in consequence of wet
cr cold winds, and place the combs with their
adhering bees altern.tely into one hive, taking
care that all brood is in the centre-. Before
handling either stock, take care to give each a
puff of smoke, and let them have every oppor-
tunity to gorge themselves with honey before
removing the quilts.

Kobbing. — During the spring, when the stores
are low in the hives and feeding artificially is-
in full swing, robbing is often commenced and,
if not checked at once, it becomes well-nigh
impossible to cure it. When bees are seen
stiugg.ing on the alig'ting board, or filling off
Dy tnrees and fours, you may be certain that the-
plague has commenced. The pass on, for such
It is, will grow rap:dly, and everv bee that gets
off scot flee wi.l soon return following an in-
creasing number ot raiders.

Tiie Cure. — They say prevention is better than
cure. When feeding on syrup take care to spill
none about the hives ; feed at night or on wet
days, and close all entrances, so that one be&
only can pass at a time. When the entrances
are closed in this manner, the colony attacked
can fight the intruders with bet'er hope of suc-
cess than when maty bees can pass in.

312

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 19, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Qarden,
W.C.

■Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
toi naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side only
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

.Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused coimmmications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trccs^ &-c.^ but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Piewspapers.—Correspoiuients seruiing newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring tinder the notice of horticulturists.

APPQINTMENTS FOR THE EN3UING WEEK.

^,,,^t-T^.%. «« „,) Devon County Agricultural Show

TUI.-.SDA\, May 22^ at Tavistock (2 days).

THiTRqruv Mav 24 J '^""'^'^'■="'' meeting of the

THUKbUAi, .Ma> ^1 I Linnean Society.

S.VTURD.iiY, May 26 Dutch Gardeners' Soc- :ty meets.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 56-2°

Actual Temperatures:—

London.— U'crfiwrfaj)', May K (6 p.m.); Max. 55°; Min.
41°.

Gardeners' Chronicle OfBce, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— r/iiirsi(fljs May 17
'10 A.M.): Bar., 29.6; Temp., 48°; IVeatlier—
bull.

Provinces.— H'crfBfsrfav, May 16 (6 p.m.): Max. 51"
South-west England ; Min. 40° North-east Scot-
land.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY—

Geraniums, Palms, Plants, Begonias, Gladiolus, Ferns,
&c.. at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morns,
at 12.

FRIDAY—

Imported and Established Orchids from various sources,
Orchids in flower and bud, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C.,
by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.45.

ignorance of the ciixumstanccs. We fic-
quentlv meet horticulturists who are still of
the belief that the committee is in a position
to elect all candidates that apply for help.
Such an impression has been created, wc
suppose, because for some years the fund
was able to meet all the claims for support
which were received at that time. Since
then, however, the institution has become
better known, and the needs of gardeners"
orphans are therefore more generally brought
to the knowledge of the committee.

The sooner gardeners can be convinced of
the need for further contributions the better
it will be, and when they themselves have
become subscribers they will be in a better
position to approach their employers to ask
them to afford additional assistance to the
fund.

Mr. Edward Sherwood, the honorary
treasurer, it will be seen from the report on
another page, introduced a very siiriple sum
to show that the annual subscription of five
shillings would impose little more upon the
donor than an expenditure of one penny each
week ! Every gardener and every nursery-
man in the British Isles could afford to sub-
scribe such an amount. Could they but be
induced to do so no gardener's orphan would
then be refused aid.

Mr. Gurney Fowler is to be congratulated
upon the amount raised in cnnnection with
the festival, and those who have the interests
of the charity at heart will be very grateful
indeed to him for his help on that occa-
sion. But at the risk of wearying our
readers, we again beg them to help to
place the committee in such a position that
it will be less dependent upon the rnoncy
obtained from the festivals, and may rely
more and more upon an increased and in-
creasing list of annual subscriptions.

All who know Mr. H. B. May, the genial
chairman of the Executive Committee, will
feel the deepest sympathy with him in the
bereavement he sustained early on Tuesday
morning last in the sudden and unexpected
death of his wife, a lady who was held in
great esteem.

We are glad to be able to record
The Orphan such a successful festival as that
Fund. which took place on May lo in
aid of the Royal Gardeners'
Orphan Fund. The dinner was well attended,
and it was announced that a sum of ;^i,ooi
15s. had been paid or promised for the fund.
This is a larger amount than has been ob-
tained at any former 'festival since the in-
stitution was established in 1887, and it
would appear, therefore, on the surface, that
there is no need for any grumbling.

But the festival is only one event — admit-
tedly the principal one — in the year's work,
and, whilst the receipts from this source
are eminently satisfactory, and such as
amply compensate for the great amount of
work undertaken by numerous helpers, as
well as by the committee and secretary, the
receipts from annual subscriptions have
always been very much less in amount than
they should be.

It was announced on .May 10 that
there were twenty-one candidates awaiting
election ! When will gardeners wake up,
realise the position, and act up to their re-
sponsibilities? We do not believe that the
■omission is owing to any lack of charit-
able feeling, but rather to thoughtlessness or

Small Holdings. — The Departmental Coin-
mittee appointed by the President of the Board
of Agriculture and Fisheries to inquire into the
subject of small holdings held a sitting on the 10th
inst. Evidence was given by Mr. A. E. Brooke-
Hunt, a Superintending Inspector, Board of
Agriculture and Fisheries ; Mr. T. S. Dymond,
an Inspector, Board of Education, and Dr. H.
FranklinParsons, the Assistant Medical Officer of
Health, Local Government Board.

Linnean Society. — The anniversary meeting
of the Linnean Society of London will be held at
Burlington House, Piccadilly, on Thursday, the
24th of this month, at 3 o'clock precisely, for the
election of a council and officers for the ensuing
year, for the award of the society's gold medal,
for the reception of the presidential address, and
for other business.

No. 4 Greenhouse at Kew. — In a green-
house of any pretensions it is interesting to observe
how at some seasons of the year one colour or
certain shades of one colour predominate. At the
present time shades of red are the most conspicu-
ous in this house. These are furnished principally
byNicotiana Sanderae, plants in 12-inch pots. 6 to
8 feet in height; Rhododendron (Azalea) indicum
varieties, hybrid Senecios (Cinerarias), Salvia
splendens, and Begonias. Annuals are excellent
subjects for the decoration of the cool greenhouse
in spring, and are easy to grow. Besides the now

deservedly popular Schizanthus, the pink and
white varieties of Helipterum call for attention.
Sction's form of Nemesia strumosa can be had
'.i\ full flower three months from the time of sowing
the seeds. Collinsia bicolor in 7-inch pots are a
mass of flower. An early white Sweet Pea " Mont
Blanc" flowers when about 3 feet high. A great
variety of interesting Senecios (Cinerarias) are
just now at their best. These include S. kewensis
(cruenta x garden variety), S. Lynchii (multiflora
X garden variety), S. Lady Thiselton-Dyer (Heri-
tieri X Kew Blue), S. cantabridgensis, S. Moorei.
and S. Feltham Bouquet. The new hybrid
Calceolarias, Jefferies' Hybrid and C. kewensis x ,
give promise of becoming valuable subjects for
greenhouse decoration. Hard-wooded plants with
but few exceptions, although lasting in flower over
a long period, find little favour in the gardens of
to-day. Take Darwinia Hookeriana as an instance.
I'rom a decorative point of view its value lies in the
large coloured involucres. These last four to fi le
months, the small flowers are enclosed several to-
gether within the bracts. Anotherplant is Helichry-
sum (Aphelexis)humilisvar. purpurea. The much-
branched £(ems and silvery-green leaves set off to
perfection the purple flower-heads. Oxylobium
ellipticum is flowering profusely. The yellow
flowers are crowded on corymbose racemes. So
far Boronia fastigiata has found little favour in
gardens, although as a decorative plant it is more
etlective than several of the more generally grown
species, and quite as easy to cultivate. A number
of plants of Polygala myrtifolia var. grandiflora
are covered with flowers. The white-flowered
Hymenocallis (Ismene) calathina is very fragrant.
Calceolaria violacea is covered with pale violet
helmet-shaped flowers. Lilium sutchuenense. a
recently reintroduced Chinese species, resembles
L. tigrinum, the flowers and leaves being rather
smaller. Primula Forbesii does best treated as an
annual ; grown several plants together in pans
(dwarf pots), the pale lilac flowers are freely pro-
duced. Two large specimen plants of Impatiens
Oliveri, in tubs, have been one of the features of
this house during the past two years, as already
noted in these columns.

Flowers in Season. — Mr. Jameg Harris,
Blackpill Nurseries, Swansea, sends a selection of
excellent St. Brigid Anemones, of scarlet colour,
of which he writes : " They have been grown in
ordinary garden soil, with the addition of stable
manure. The seeds were sown last June in a cold
frame, and the seedlings transplanted in Septem-
ber to the site where they are now flowering. We
have some two year old plants with 50 or more
tlov/ers on them, the flower-stems being about
18 inches long. They are valuable subjects for
furnishing flowers for cutting or for the decoration
of the garden, as they are fully two months in
flower. I have been selecting this — what I term
' Giant ' strain — for several years."

In My Garden. — This is described as being
" a little summer book for nature lovers," and is
certainly daintily got up so as to please the
most fastidious. There is a space for memoranda
for each week of the year, with appropriate and
not too familiar quotations set opposite to it. Cul-
tural hints and suggestions for table decorations
are also included. The whole is prettily bound
and printed, all in lavender, and issued from The
Lavender Press, Sheep Street, Wellingborough.

Gardening Instruction in Worcester-
shire.— A course of Saturday lectures to teachers
(with practical demonstrations) has been concluded
at the County Experimental Garden, Droitwich,
by Mr. J. Udale, County Instructor. The sub-
jects were as follow : — Preparation of soil and
planting fruit trees ; winter pruning : large fruits
and small fruits ; seed sowing ; Brassica, Aspara-
gus, Peas, Beans, Carrots. Beet, flowers ; thinning
crops and general cultivation. These lectures
ha\e been well attended and much appreciated.

May 19, 190(5]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

ZV.

Recreation Club for Nursery Em-
ployees.— Messrs. SuttOiN & Sons, Reading, have
devoted a large portion of the grounds and land,
formerly belonging to Cintra Lodge, as a recreation
ground for their employees. Efficient groundsmen
have been at work for many weeks past, and the turf
is already in very fine condition. Cricket, football,
and hockey matches are being arranged for the
summer and autumn months, together with lawn
tennis tournaments. The cycling section and the
anglers are also being catered for, Mr. Martin
John Sutton is the first president of the Club.

Devices to Protect Fruit Trees from
Frost. — Mr. Bennett, British Consul-General
.in San Francisco, in the course of a recent report
■to the Foreign Office, states that the burning of
oil in metal pots to protect fruit trees from the
effects of frost has been practically abandoned in
California on the ground that the smoke is so dirty
that it ruins the fruit by the deposit of the oily
smuts. Fires of brush and refuse lighted to wind-
ward are sometimes resorted to, but a better
substitute is the burning of sawdust in specially
constructed holed tins, which are conveyed
through the orchard on a wagon. The resulting
smoke is very thick, and in order to avoid too
rapid combustion it is necessary to use a small
spray pump on the wagon to counteract the
tendency to flame. Another plan, which is ex-
pensive but successful, is a combination of smudge
and water, The trees are covered with burlap,
removable of course, mounted on iron posts,
with wire about 16 feet in the centre and sloping
to 8 feet at the sides. Small irrigation canals are
.run in parallel lines under the burlap the full
length of the orchard. These are filled with
water at a temperature of 65°, pumped from a
well at a rate of 3,000 gallons an hour. The
water then runs to waste, and on issuing at the
further end of the orchard has lost about 10" of
heat. At the same time "smudges" are lighted at
each end of the orchard, and the suction of air
under the awning draws in the smoke and creates
an excellent smudge.

Exhibition at Mannheim. — It is proposed to
hold a grand International Horticultural Exhibi-
tion at Mannheim from the beginning of May to
the end of October, 1907, in celebration of the
300th anniversary of the foundation of the city.
The exhibition is under the patronage of His
Imperial Highness the Grand Duke Frederick
OF Baden, and the committee includes the most
influential horticulturists of the district. Every
branch of horticulture is to be represented in the
general exhibition, and in addition there will be
special shows devoted to Roses, Orchids, Cacti,
Dahlias, and to other flowers, fruit and vegetables,
according to the season. All particulars can be
obtained by application to the office of the
JuhilailmiauiiteUung, Friedrichsplatz, 14, Mann-
heim.

The recent Eruption of Vesuvius. — The
■destiuction of vegetation in the area bordering on
the volcano has been very great, and that which
was not utterly destroyed by the fall of heated
ashes was swept away by an enormously heavy
rainfall. Fortunately the formation of rain-clouds
in consequence of the sudden rise in the tempera-
ture in the higher regions of the air due to the
eruption extended over a relatively small extent
of country only, but the more distant parts
around the mountain, owing to the sudden
changes in the direction of the wind, were more or
less covered with dry toal ashes, as also the city
of Naples They began, writes M. Herb, in
Mailer's Deutsche Gartner Zeitimg of April 28, the
Sisyphus labour of clearing several times daily,
the deposit of ashes from, drooping branches and
foliage of the large plants in gardens and nursery
grounds, and subsequently from the germinating
crops, and from the hotbeds. At the time of
writing the volcanic action-was beginning to lessen.

and there were hopes that the better sorts of sow-
ings, viz. Balsams, Zinnias, Stocks, Asters, Helio-
tropes, Centaureas, Begonias, Coleus, and
Salvia splendens might still be saved. Of the
vegetables sown, luckily nothing had come
through the soil, and Tomatos, Capsicums, and
Egg-plants were still under sufficient cover. The
plants that have suffered the most are Peas, Beans,
and Radishes. Broad Beans, which were in
bloom at the time, are broken down with the
weight of the ashes, whilst Endive, Chicory,
Spinach and the like intended for the market had
the life literally pressed out of them, and it is to
be feared that a similar fate has befallen the
breadths of Myosotis, Bellis, Pansy, Wallflower,
and wi'nter-flowering Stocks, which had been in
bloom for three weeks. Bulbs, of which the
various species and varieties had finished their
flowering, will in most instances raise their leaves
from out of the coating of ashes without suffering
much injury. The greatest losers will be the
raisers of the Cauliflower seed. Vineyards and
orchards have suffered greatly.

A Pocket Book of British Birds, by
E. F. M. Elms.— .\ handy little book published
by West, Newman &. Co., 54, Hatton Garden,
and which is intended to aid the field naturalist in
naming the birds he sees. Each species is carefully
described; its plumage, language, habits, food,
nest, and eggs ; and additional observations are
added for the identification of species superficially
resembling one another. The author has con-
fessedly drawn information from some of our
large standard books, and has added helpful re-
marks of his own. We hope it may enable
readers to recognise birds without shooting them
or taking their nests. It is, at any rate, drawn up
carefully with this end in view, and should find
favour for these very reasons.

Hand List of Ferns, etc. — From the Royal
Gardens, Kew, has been issued the second edition
of this very useful list. The original preface is re-
tained and a second one from the pen of the new
Director added. The revision of the list has been
entrusted to Mr. C. H. Wright. There is an
appendix of "cultural forms" of British Ferns,
many of which, if we mistake not, were not of
garden origin, but maybe considered as "muta-
tions." When Mr. Christensen's admirable
Index Filicnm, now in course of publication, is com-
pleted, doubtless further revision will be required.
The percentage of Ferns in the various countries
of the globe varies from 4 per cent, in the Arctic
zone to 464 in tropical America ; but such esti-
mates can only be approximate, as the figures
given will always vary according to the judgment
of indi\idual botanists as to the identification and
limitation of particular " species."

Meconopsis integrifolia. — When Messrs.
James Veitch & Sons introduced this noble
Poppy into cultivation in this country, it will be
remembered that in Messrs. Bee's nursery a
similar plant flowered simultaneously [see Gar-
deners' Chronicle, Sept. 17, 1904, p. 194], and there
was some doubt expressed at the time as to
whether there were two species or only one. A
plant is now in flower in the rock garden at Kew,
which is like Messrs. Bee's plant, and is, we
believe, considered by Col. Prain, the Director of
Kew, as a distinct species. As Col. Prain is an
authority on this genus his description will be
looked forward to with interest. It will be re-
membered that Col. Prain was obliging enough
to furnish us w-ith a note on the genus in our
issue for June 17, 1905. p. 369.

Cystopteris MONTANA. — Mr. Druery, having
submitted the curious growths on this plant (see
ante, p. 229, fig. 91) to Professor Farmer, of the
Royal College of Science, has received from him
the following communication: — "As regards the
interesting plant of Cystopteris montana, there is

no doubt of the remarkable case of the develop-
ment on the plant of a very curious tuft of ever-
green leaves that difter much from the nominal
leaves of the plant, and that these, when examined,
consist of a midrib and a lamina of single cell
thickness. The nature of the frond is yet to be
determined, e.g., whether or not it is [a case of] in-
cipient apospory, but there is no doubt as to the
production of young plants on layering these
curious fronds after detaching them from the
plant. On one of them the striking cell growth
on the surface strongly suggested apospory. I
have never seen anything like it befcre, and I am
sending you two slides containing (1) a bit of the
normal frond produced by the plant, (2) a bit of
one of these remarkable " frondlets " in which you
will easily see the difference in character. But all
one can say at present is that the " frondlets " are
very hygrophilous in form, and present great
differences as contrasted with the normal fronds.
I think you are to be congratulated on a most
interesting discovery. /. B. Farmer, Royal College
of Science, London, May 8, 1906."

Publications Received.— i)»7/ch;i of Miscel-
laneous Injormatiou. Trinidad. April. Contents;
How to pack and forward specimens for examination ;
destruction of mosquito larvEe by Utricularia, &c. —
Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits. January. Ex-
porting seed of Para Rubber, by H. N. Ridley, Director
of Public Gardens ; the Engkald fruit (Litsea persella
n. sp.), reports and registers, &c. — North Dakota
.Agricultural College. Department of Botany.
Bulletin No. 68. Rust Problems. Henrj- L. Booley
and F. J. Pritchard.

THE GENUS AKCTOTIS AT KEW.

(See Supplementary Illustration.)
The nomenclature of the species of the genus
is very mixed. A number of them have been
described under two, three, or even four names.
Take A. aureola as an instance : this has at
various times borne the names of A. aspera var.
aureola, A. grandiflora, and A. undulata. In the
Index Kewensis 50 distinct species are recorded.
Very few of these are to be met with in gardL'ns,
but only four species and one variety are in cul-
tivation at Kew. Three species and a variety
were recently flowering in No. 4 greenhouse.
A large number of species appear to have 'oeeii
introduced at various times, but apparently
their cultural requirements were not sufficiently
understood, and they were soon lust.

The species are variable in habit, some being
annuals, others herbaceous, and those vvitn
which these notes are more directly concerned
are more or less shrubby. Several are old gar-
den plants. A. aspera var. arborescer;3 was in
cultivation at the beginning of the I8tfi century
in this country, and earlier than that in Hol-
land.

Propagation is effected by seeds, cuttings, and
occasionally by grafting. The method prac-
tised varies according to the species. The frutes-
cent species, with one exception noted later, re-
quire special care to root them successfully.
Select short, sturdy cuttings, with a heel of old
wood attached, such as are often to be found
near the base of the plant. Insert them in
sandy soil, and place them in a moderately dry
position in an intermediate house. During sum-
mer the plants like plenty of water. In winter
a cool greenhouse is the most suitable place lor
them, and during this period the watering must
be done very carefully. Mature plants flower
from about February to October. Although the
shrubby species are essentially greenhouse
plants, during very favourable seasons they can
be grown successfully outside in a sunny posi-
tion. A. aspera var. arborescens is the best
plant for this purpose. The four representatives
of these beautiful Cape plants which recently
flowered in No. 4 greenhouse are as follow : —

A. .'iSPERA (See Supplementary Illustration.)
This is the most compact grower of the
frutescent speci'^s in cultivation at Kew. The
plant illustrated is rather more than 2 feet ii:

314

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 19, 1S03.

height. The gieyish gaeen leaves aie very hand-
some : in fact, were the flowers of no decorative
value, the plant would be worth cultivating for
its foliage. The outer involucre scales form, I
oelieve, oneof the points on which botanists de-
termine the species. In this plant they are nar-
row and tomentose. The ray-florets are creamy-
white, tipped with yellow near the base, fo/m-
ing a ring round the disc-florets. The underside
of the raj'-florets is tinged with pink. The

Chronicle for February 3rd, 1883, p. 145 [which
we reproduce at fig. 127. — Ed.] and also figured
in the Botanical Magazine, tab. 6,528.

A. AUREOLA.
At one time considered to be a variety of A.
aspera ; growing side by side at Kew, they appear
to be quite distinct. The stems and leaves are
tomentose, giving the plant a silvery appearance.
This helps to show off the rich orange-coloured
flower heads to perfection. The flower heads

aureola being grafted on A. aspera var. arbores-
cens with good results. It was figured with the
next species in th« Botanical Magazine, tab. 6 835.

A. REVOLUTA.

In gener.-il appearance this species is rather
more slender than the foregoing. The outer in-
volucral bracts are narrow, as in A. aspera,
slightly pubescent, flower-heads 2J to 3 inches
across, ray-florets yellow, with a dart basal

/c

Fig. 137. — ARCTOTIS aspera var. ARBORESCENS ; COLOUR OF FLOWERS CREAMY-WHITE ABOVE, AND ROSY-PINK UNDERNEATH.

flower-heads average 3 inches across. The
variety arborescens is the most easily grown of
the greenhouse section, rooting readily from cut-
tings. At Kew, plants two years from cuttings
range from 4 to 6 feet in height. It has rather
thick stems, while the leaves are more undulate
than in the species. The underside of the ray-
florets is a beautiful shade of rosy-pink ; seen
from belovjr the flowers are even prettier than
irom above. It v.-as illustrated in the Gardeners'

average from 4 to 5 inches across. The outer in-
volucral bracts are much broader than in A.
aspera, and practically glaucous. The propaga-
tion of this species is rather slow ; usually only a
small percentage of cuttings succeed in making
roots, although every care is taken. This is the
most difficult part of its cultivation, as when once
rooted the plants grow very freel3'. The plants
flowering in No. 4 were rooted in April last year,
and average 3 feet in height. I have heard of A.

mark to each, forming a conspicuous ring round
the disc florets. The Kew plant is 3 feet in
height. It was introduced into this country
about 1820.

A. LEPTOKHIZA.
This is a beautiful annual readily raised from
seeds. At a distance it might easily be mis-
taken for Gazania splendens. In seed lists it is
usually sold under the name of A. breviscapa.
A. O.'

May 19, lOOG ]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

01-

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

The Editor does not hold himself responsible for tns
opinio7ts expressed ty his correspondents.)
Gardeners- Mutual Improvement Socie-
ties.— The subject of federation has been con-
sidered by the committee of the Croydon
and District Horticultural Mutual Improvement
Society, who have examined the replies to my
letter of February 17, published in these pages.
My committee has engaged the lecture room at
the R.H.S. Hall, Vincent Square, S,W., wherein
to hold a meeting on October 16 next, whereat
delegates from societies are invited to discuss
the matter, audit is hoped that a provisional com-
mittee will be elected for the purpose of drafting
a scheme of Federation of Horticultural Mutual
Improvement Societies. All the Horticultural
Improvement Societies throughout the Britisli
Isles who can send representatives are asked to do
so, and failing their attendance I trust they will b;
good enough to wTite me in the meantime stating
their views, that full consideration may be given to
tliem. Hairy Boshier, Hon. Sec. to thi Croydon and
District Horticultural Mutual Improvement Socictx ,
C2, High Streit, Croydon.

Spring Cabbages. — I h.ive made ane.'ihaustive
trial in order to test the merits of Flower of Spring
versus the variety Ellam's Early Dwarf. Thesf
V arieties were sown together at two different dates,
and were both transplanted in due course and
treated exactly aUke in every respect. Out of
3. OOU plants JO per cent, of Ellam's Early Dwarf
" bolted," while of the same number of Flower of
Spring not a single plant has run to seed. I have
always regarded the latter as the best variety in
cultivation, and I am now more than ever con-
\inced of its superiority, not only for its immunit\-
from bolting, but for its evenness of growth and
its general good qualities. James Gibson, Welbee/i
Gardens, ]Voi/iSOp.

The Distribution of Plants from the
Royal Horticultural Society. — 1 am fully
satisfied with what I have received both in regard
to plants and seeds. The packing is most carefully
executed, the plants being tied round with damp
moss ; they arrived in perfect condition even after
several notoriously rough transfers and a long
journey. This year I have received nearly every-
thing I wanted, both for my employer's share and
my own, which is astonishing when we take into
consideration the 10,000 Fellows who are entitled
to participate in a share, the limited number of the
garden staffs and the short time that the Royal
Horticultural Society has been at the Wisley Gar-
dens. After all we should treat the distribution of
plants and seeds, not as a right, but as a gift, and
return thanks accordingly, as the Society was never
intended to grow plants and seeds for its Fellows
or to compete with the trade. If we turn to the
report of the council for last year, p. 25, it fully
explains how the distribution of surplus plants
has arisen. The council clearly states : — (1) IMs
only surplus plants which are available. (2)
There is no pretence made of their being either
valuable or rare, though undoubtedly some are
not usually met with. (3) As a general rule they
are only small plants. Why, indeed, should I
call a plant wretched or diminutive just because
it is small. Those I have seen from the Royal
Horticultural Society are healthy, and if not
neglected they will grow. H. R. IVhitclan'.

Forcing Strawberi^ies. — To obtain ripe
Strawberries in F^ebruary and onwards, layers
should be secured as early in the season as pos-
sible from plants which have not been allowed to
fruit during the current year. Three-inch pots
should be filled with soil made moderately firm,
and the first plants that are formed on the runners
selected. As soon as they are well rooted cut
them from the parent plants and remove them to
a shady place for a few days. When the small
pots are full of roots the plants will be ready for
shifting direct into the fruiting pots, which should
be of a 6-inch size. A compost I find suitable for
the final potting, and one that gives good results
in forcing these fruits, is composed of good loam,
to each barrow-load of which is added a 5-inch
pot-full of artificial manure with a little soot,
iime, and charcoal. The whole should be well
mixed together. After being potted the plants
should be placed in the shade for some days, and
subsequently be removed to a sunny aspect to
grow and ripen the crown, a point most essential to
success. About the end of October they should
be removed to cold frames and plunged to their

rim in ashes, as a protection against frost. Gentle
hot-beds should be used for forcing the plants, and
cold draughts must be carefully excluded. I thin
the fruits to about 6, 8, or 10 on a plant and the
fruits average about one ounce each in weight.
I enclose a few fruits of Royal Sovereign gathered
from plants treated as above. A. R. Pcarce, The
Gables Gardens, Ke iiworth. ["Very satisfactory
fruits, — Ed.]

Cymbidium Lowianum. — I am sending you a
photograph of a plant of Cymbidium Lowianum
in flower at the present time with 17 flower-spikes
that are carrying 235 individual blooms. The
plant was last spring given a good top-dressing of
a mixture consisting of equal parts loam, peat and
moss, and it was watered alternately with diluted
soot water and cow-manure water. The plant
has been growing in an intermediate house, and is
in a 12-inch pot. Herbert Jones, Craigenhall Gar-
dens, Falkirk. [A good specimen, but we have
illustrated this species on many occasions. Kd.]

Saxifraga juniperifolia (see p. 2S1). — I am
surprised to find from Mr. Arnott's note that this
species is not always a success. When I said it
was of quite easy cultivation in common soil I
was speaking from experience obtained during
many years and in many districts. I should as
soon expect to fail with such common-place things
as Arabis or Aubrietia as with Saxifraga juniperi-
folia. I can understand the plant failing on
rockeries of a certain description, as the plant
would be far happier in the cabbage plot. It
will grow and spread freely in any cool situation,
but cannot endure its roots being in a few
inches of over-drained soil in full sunshine.
Nearly 30 years ago, when taking charge of a
northern collection of hardy plants, I was told
I could not grow the plant there and that to
increase it was out of the question. At the
same time 1 was shown a nice tuft that
had existed for many years in one spot. At
the end of the first year 1 was able to show my
challenger upwards of three dozen saleable plants
in pots, and a tuft in a low cool spot — quite near
to Gentiana Andrewsii — on the rockery, of a larger
size than the original. In the sand plunging beds
at Tooting the plant was always a success. The
glass covering referred to by Mr. Arnott is a
mistake, and a good depth of ordinary soil in a
comparatively cool spot would better suit this shy
flowering species. E. H. Jenkins.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

May 1G. — Owing probably to the nearness of
the Temple Show, the exhibition on Tuesday
last at the Hall in Vincent Square, Westminster,
was not quite so good as usual. There were
fewer entries for Orchids, and the Orchid Com-
mittee recommended only three Awards of
Merit to novelties, and no First Class Certifi-
cate ! Several Diplomas, however, were
awarded in the special competition for these.

The Floral Committee recommended a First
Class Certificate to a variety of Davallia solida,
and three Awards of Merit to other plants.

The Narcissus and Tulip Committee had an
extensive collection of Tulips to inspect, and
these constituted one of the dominant features of
this meeting. Nine Awards of Merit were recom-
mended to varieties of Tulips.

The Fruit and Vegetable Committee had
more to inspect en this occasion than at previous
meetings this season, including some extraor-
dinary fruits of Royal Sovereign Strawberry
from Lady Plowdex. An Award of Merit was
recommended to a variety of Broccoli.

At the afternoon meeting 80 new Fellows were
elected, and a lecture on " Flower Gardens in
the United States," by Professor Corbett, was
read by the Assistant .Secretary.

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. J. W. Green, T. W. Turner, C. J. Salter,
C. T. Druery, George Nicholson, J. W. Barr, J.
F. McLeod, R. Hooper Pearson, W. Howe,
Chas. E. Pearson, A. R. Goodwin, C. Blick,
Chas. Jeffries, Geo. Gordon, W. Bain, J.
Douglas, Chas. E. Shea, E. T. Cook, Chas.
Dixon, W. P. Thomson, E. H. Jenkins, W.
Cuthbertson, M. J. James, Geo. Paul, Ed. Maw-
ley, Jno Jennings, R. C. Notcutt, and J. Hud-
son.

Before commencing the usual business of the
committee, sympathetic reference was made by
the chairman to Mr. H. B. May, who had that
morning suffered a bereavement in the suddea
death of his wife. It was decided to send a
letter of condolence to Mr. May.

Messrs. James Carter & Co., 237, 238, High
Holborn, London, put up a large group of
Cinerarias, the majority being of the large-
flowered florists' type, w-ith a few of the taller-
growing stellata strain at the back. The exhibit
formed a bright bank of diverse colours, and
was well arranged. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthbert, The Nurseries,
Southgate, staged a collection of Ivy-leaved
Pelargoniums. They had the new variety
Gringori in good form, the plants being well
furnished with large trusses of magenta-coloured
fiov.ers. Willie is new this season ; the flowers
are scarlet, and not unlike those of the Zonal
type. Other good sorts are Beaute Supreme,
with large trusses of flowers of a salmon shade,
developed on long peduncles; and Resplendent,
the pips being rosj'-carmine in shade, broad,
and aggregated on tall stalks that display the
flowers well above the foliage. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Nurserymen, Stam-
ford and Peterborough, contributed a display of
greenhouse plants, among which were some well-
grown plants of Heliotrope Lord Roberts, Ver-
benas, Petunias, Cactus-flowered Pelargoniums,
&c.

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, showed a batch of Schizanthus
hybrids. The plants represented a very choice
strain of this floriferous greenhouse subject,
being compact in habit and showing a good
selection of colours. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

An interesting collection of plants was shown
by Messrs. Paul cS: Son, The Old Nurseries,
t;heshunt. Arbutus procera has Rhododendron-
like foliage and a terminal raceme of small
white flott-ers ; the inflorescence may be likened
to a bunch of Grapes. Baccharis patagonica is
a shrubby Composite. Cytisus Heuffeli pro-
duces its yellow-coloured flow'ers in whorls of
five at the end of the branches. Garrya elliptica
in fruit, Sedum thymifolium, Rhododendrons,
Lilacs, &c.

Lovers of ornamental trees and shrubs found
much that was interesting. Quite a bevy of
beautiful things came from the gardens of Sir
Edmund Loder, Leonardslee, Sussex (gr. Mr.
W. A. Cook). Trusses of Rhododendron
flowers were very showy ; two of the finer were
heads of R. Blandfordiaeflorum, and R. cinna-
barinum. The rare Fendlera rupic'ola was
nicely in flower; Grevilleas in many kinds,
Ericas, including the new E. Veitchii,
Camellias, Magnolias, Halesia tetraptera, and a
host of other beautiful things. (Silver Gilt
I'Tora Medal.)

Sindlar to the last-named group was a display
of flowering trees and shrubs shown by Lord
AiDENHAM, Elstree (gr. Mr. Ed. Beckett),
Acers, Magnolias, Spiraeas, Honeysuckles, Crab-
apples, Crataegus, Ribes, and similar subjects,
in many species and varieties, formed an object-
lesson of much value. (Silver Gilt Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, Exeter, contributed
many interesting plants in flower, and sprays of
such ornamental subjects as Sutherlandia
frutescens and several varieties of Edwardsia
tetraptera, both leguminous plants, with red
and yellow flowers respectively ; Jamesia ameri.
cana, Cytisus purpuraceus incarnatus — a capi-
tal garden plant ; Abutilon vitifolium, with
numerous white flowers, as handsome as the
Japanese Anemone ; Citrus trifoliata, with tor-
tuous spines and fragrant, white flowers ; Poten-
tilla dahurica, like a beautiful, single, pink
Rose ; Embothrium coccineum, and the big For-
get-me-not, Myosotideum nobile, &c.

Mr. H. B. May', Dyson's Lane Nurseries,
Upper Edmonton, staged over one hundred
varieties and species of hardy Ferns. Crested,
plumose, linear, and other forms of -4spleniums
(.A.thyriums), Osmundas, Adiantums, Scolopen-
driums, Lastreas, &c., represented quite the best
among the hardy members of these beautiful
foliage plants. Mr. May also exhibited named
varieties of Pansies, and a bright blue Lobelia
named Waverley Blue. (Silver Gilt Banksian
Medal.)

Mr. C. G. VAN Tubercen, Jun., Zwanenburg

)1G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 19, 1906.

■Nurseries, Haarlem, Holland, showed a number
'©£■ the beautiful Regelio-Cyclus Irises that at-
tracted much attention when first displayed
about two years ago. Some of those shown
have already been described in our columns,
and a new one will be found under "Awards."
The CR.4VEN Nursery Co., Clapham, York-
shire, showed some rare and choice hardy
plants and Alpines. Ranunculus glacialis was
nicely in flower ; a batch of Androsace vitaliana
;ind another of Eritrichiura nanum were also
shown well ; Haberlea rhodopensis and the
whit© form, H. r. virginalis, also deserve men-
tion.

Mr. M. Prichaed, Christchurch, Hants,
fhowed hardy plants, including pink and white
lornis of the common Blue-bell. Scilla nutans
violacea is of a deep blue shade. (Bronze Flora
■iledal.)

Messrs. John Peed & Son, West Norwood,
London, showed a small collection of Alpine
and rock-garden plants, and trays of Gloxinia
flowers in named varieties. In another part of
the Hall Messrs. Peed displayed a collection of
ornamental Maples, interspersed with large-
flowering Clematis and Ceanothus. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Thos. S. Ware & Co., Ltd., Feltham,
Middlesex, had many hardy plants and flowers,
including a number of the best kinds of Aubrie-
tias, Calochortus Maweanus, Gentiana Kessel-
ringi, a nice pan of Ramondia pyrenaica.
Irises, Pseonies, &c. The same firm also dis-
played a group of tuberous-rooting Begonias,
quite the best that have been exhibited in the
Hall this season. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)
Messrs. G. & A. Clark, Ltd., Dover, Kent,
had a small collection of hardy flowers and rock-
garden plants, and a new salmon-coloured Zonal
Pelargonium named Clark's Superb. (Bronze
Flora Medal.)

A batch of the lovely Pink Pearl Rhododen-
dron was shown by Messrs. John Waterer S:
Sons, Ltd., Bagshot, Surrey. The plants were
18 inches to i feet high, but, although small,
they had very large trusses of their delightful
flowers. ;Silver Flora Medal.)

Mr. Chas. TnsNEE, Royal Nurseries, Slough,
staged a group of pyramid-trained Azaleas, fur-
nished with flowers to the ground level. Very
fine were the varieties Rosa Bonheur, a double
flower of crimson shade, and Apollo, with large
red "bells." Mr. Turner also showed a mag-
nificent specimen of Asparagus Sprengeri in the
flowering stage. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Several good displays of Roses were seen,
one of the best being those shown by Mr. Geo.
'Mount, Canterbury, Kent. The blooms ap-
peared remarkably bright, and were carried on
the ends of long, robust growths, an epergne of
the famous Ulrich Brunner being especially fine.
Mrs. J. Laing, Lady Roberts, Catherine Mer-
met, Bessie Brown, and Mrs. Ed. Mawley are
some of the best varieties shown. (Silver Gilt
FTora Medal.)

Messrs. Ben. Cant & Sons, Colchester, also
exhibited Roses, having some nicely-flowered
plants and a display of cut blooms. The copper
and yellow-flowered Austrian Briars looked very
beautiful, the colours being remarkably clear.
Kiliarney, Mad Cousin^ the new, pale rose-
coloured Mrs. O. G. Orpen, a single of great
beauty, was noticed ; also Mrs. W. J. Grant,
Mrs. Ed. Mawley, and others as beautiful. (Sil-
ver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Waltham, Herts,
showed new climbing Roses. Kathleen has
heavy bunches of single, rose-pink flowers, the
trusses being produced in profusion ; the centres
of the flowers are white, the pink colour being
found at the upper halves of the petals. Cora is
a double variety of very pale rose shading.

Messrs. Geo. Jacicman & Son, Woking, Sur-
rey, showed a new Clematis named Lady North-
brook. The large flowers are lavender-blue in
colour,

C. S. Layton, Esq., Thornton, Harrow Weald
(gr. Mr. L. Souch), put up a small group of her-
baceous Calceolarias. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)
Mr. Amos Perry, Hardy Plant Nurseries,
Winchmore Hill, and Enfield, London, N.,
again showed Phlox canadensis, " Perry's va-
riety." Some nice forms of Trollius were also
noticed, and the brilliant Tulipa Ostrowskiana.
(Bronze Flora Medal.)

Mr. A. R. Upton, Guildford Hardy Plant
Nur.<«ry, Guildford, brought a selection of
hardy plants iii' season. (Bronze Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, showed
Forget-me-nots in different shades of colours,
alternating bands of pink with light and dark-
blue varieties. The variety Star of Love is of
neat compact habit, and formed a suitable
edging to the group.

Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
staged a number of smaii pot plants of Rose
Mad. Levavasseur, each little plant being a pic-
ture of beauty. They had also a display of
Zonal and Show Pelargoniums, and a vase of
the scented-leaved P. Clorinda. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. CuTBUSH & Son, Highgate, London,
N., showed a group of mixed greenhouse plants,
Ericas, Verbenas, Rhododendrons, Callas, 6cc.,
and baskets of rambler Roses. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park
Nurseries, also staged flowering greenhouse
plants, and they had also a display of Roses
and Carnations in popular varieties.

Messrs. Geo. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone,
Kent, showed a number of hardy flowers in
season. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

A small collection of these flowers was also
shown by the Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knuts-
ford. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Mr. James Douglas, Great Bookham, Surrey,
again brought Auricul-as as beautiful and al-
niost as numerous as at the last meeting.
(Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Mr. N. Lowis, Eversdown, Bridgwater,
again made a display of St. Brigid Anemones,
as at the last two meetings.

Mr. Jas. Harris, Blackpil Nurseries, Swan-
sea, also exhibited vases of these pretty spring
flowers.

Mr. G. Reuthe, Hardy Plant Nursery, Kes-
ton, Kent, had showy trusses of Rhododendrons,
Irises, hardy Orchids, and a selection of the
best kinds of Tulips.

Mr. Robert Sydenham, Tenby Street, Bir-
mingham, again displayed a group of Sweet
Peas, similar to those exhibited by him at the
last meeting. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Bobbie & Co., Rothesay, N.B.,
staged Violas and Pansies, including the new
variety Mary Burnie, shown at fig. 124, page 30(!,
(Silver Flora Medal.)

Mr. J. A. Young, Putney, showed a small
group of Cinerarias, principally of the stellata
type. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

From Lady Plowden's garden. Aston Rowant,
Wallingford, Oxon (gr. Mr. W. H. Clarke), came
an extraordinary fine specimen of the old. but
seldom grown stove plant, Plumiera bicolor (.\po-
cynaceas), also sprays of Bignonia buccinator.
The flowers are of crimson and orange colours,
and the plant makes an excellent trailer for a
cool or intermediate plant house.

Sir Trevor Lawrence. Bart., Burford (gr. Mr.
Bain), exhibited a small plant of Asparagus fili-
cinus. It is a flat "leaved" species with axillary
flowers of small size, greenish colour, produced
solitary or in pairs, and having very slender
pedicels 1| inch long. The species should make
a good decorative plant.

Awards.

Davallia solida variety superba. — This plant,
exhibited by Mr. H. B. May, caused consider-
able surprise, for it exhibited unusual variation
from the type. Not only are the fronds some-
what crispate, instead of flat, as in the species,
but the young fronds are tinted with red,
whereas those of D. solida are green. The
variety will make a capital decorative plant,
and it was awarded a First Class Certificate.

Dianthus "Spencer BickJiam^' is described as
a hybrid obtained from D. alpinus and D. del-
toidea. It is a very pretty little plant for.- the
rockery, growing about 5 to 6 inches high, and
producing reddish flowers J inch across, with
toothed petals. Shown by Messrs. R. Veitch
& Son, Exeter. (Award of Merit.)

Iris mccate. — Another beautiful variety of the
Pegelio-Cyclus section, obtained from crosses
between Regelio and Oncocyclus Irises. This
particular variety is not, as shown, quite so
large in the size of the flowers as those illus-
trated in the Gardeners' Chronicle, May 28,
1904, also from Mr. Tubergen. The standards
are of violet colour and very showy, but there
is even more beauty in the falls, where many
shades contribute. The centre of each fall is
brown, and the veining beyond is also brown ;
but the spaces between the veins, and especially

towards the margins of the falls, are yellow.
(Award of Merit.)

Rhododendron Mrs. E. C. Stirling. — This is a
first-class hardy Rhododendron, having had for
one of its parents R. catawbiense. The flowers
are self-coloured, of a rich though delicate shade
of pink, and make a very noble-looking " truss."
The buds before expanding are deeper in shade,
being reddish. It was compared by some to
Pink Pearl, which is peerless ; but the new
variety, if less magnificent, is, nevertheless, so
distinct that both are desirable. Shown by
Messrs. J. Waterer & Sons, Ltd., Bagshot.

Tulip and Narcissus Committee.

Present: J. T. Bennet Poe, Esq. {ChairmanI,
and Messrs. W. Poupart, Jas. Walker, J. R. de

C. Boscawen, R. W. Wallace, J. W. Leak, J.

D. Pearson, P. R. Barr, Alex. M. Wilson, G.
Reuthe, W. T. Ware, E. A. Bowles, G. S.
Titheradge, J. Jacob, R. Sydenham, and Chas.
H. Curtis (Hon. Sec).

A particularly fine group of Tulips was
staged by Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Colches-
ter, whose exhibit embraced a large array of
true Darwin kinds in company with the finest
of the May-flowering and cottage Tulips.
Mention may be made of such handsome varie-
ties as Flame, Coronation Scarlet, Gesneriana
lutea pallida, that superb Tulip known as
Inglescombe Pink, also Inglescombe Scarlet,
etc. Among the Darwins King Harold, Clara
Butt, and the refined flesh-pink flowers of Mrs.
Cleveland call for especial mention. (Silver- ,
Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, Covent Garden, Lon-
don, also staged a fine display of Tulips, hav-
ing cottage, May-flowering and Darwin kinds
in many shades of colours. We select the va-
rieties Torch, Queen Alexandra, Louis XIV.,
Clara Butt, Schazada (fine crimson), Asturie
(crimson and white), and Bouton d'Or as some
of the best in the group. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Hogg & Robertson, St. Mary Street,
Dublin, had a good display of these flowers,
though we understand that not a few of the
blooms had suffered from a severe storm in
transit. Fairy Queen, Amber, Summer Beauty,
Henner (a fine crimson variety), Ixioides, the
fine Gesneriana lutea, Mark Graaff, and Yel-
low Queen embrace some of the best sorts
noticed. The group also contained a fine as-
sortment of the Parrot Tulips. (Silver Flora.
Medal.)

Very fine were the Tulips from Mr.
Alex. M. Wilson, Spilsby, Lincolnshire, which
included a large and representative assortment.
Picotee, the soft yellow Vitellina, Loveliness,
Pride of Haarlem, and Hobbema (pink) are im-
portant and good kinds. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. H. Bath & Co., Floral Farms,
Wisbech, had an extensive display of these
flowers in the best kinds. In this group the
blooms were arranged in larger masses, and the
effect secured warranted the innovation. Fanny,
Isis, King Harold (rich crimson). Sultan (a.
very dark flower). La Tulipe Noire, Inglescombe
Pink, and the pleasing yellow Mrs. Moon were.
all good. (Silver-Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Sons, Ltd., Dub-
lin and Belfast, also contributed a fine group-
of these flowers. Striped Beauty was very con-
spicuous and good. Other notable flowers in-
cluded Tulipa retroflexa (clear soft yellow), the
fine pink Hobbema elegans alba. Psyche, Mrs.
Farncombe Sanders (a fine crimson and scarlet
flower with a clear white base), and Jaune
d'Oiuf (a distinct and handsome Tulip of yel-
low colour flushed with rose). Bronze Ring
was also noticeably good and distinct. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Smaller collections of Tulips were exhibited
by Mr. G. Reuthe, iKeston, Kent ; Messrs. Wm.
Bull & Sons, Chelsea ; Paul & Son, The Old
Nurseries, Cheshunt, in whose group English,
Darwin, cottage, and other kinds were noted ;
Messrs. DOBBIE & Co., Rothesay, whose ex-
hibit was entirely composed of Parrot Tulips ;
and by Mr. Walter T. Ware, Bath, who had
many handsome cottage varieties.

Avi'ards of Merit.
Tulip Gesneriana lutea. — This is one of the
most pleasing of the Gesner section of Tulips.
The rich yellow flowers are of large size and
of good form. From Mr. W. B. Haetland,.
Cork.

May 19, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

317

T. Henner (Darwin). — A splendid Tulip of
great size and substance and the fine cup out-
line. Its shade of crimson colour is like that
of King Harold.

T. Millet (Darwin). — A rich ruby-crimson
flower with well-defined dark-coloured base.

T. I sis (Darwin). — A fine scarlet variety, re-
markable for its firmness and for the size of its
flowers.

T. Psyche (Darwin). — A delightful flower of
a pale rose-pink shade, and with base a pale
blue colour internally. A. very distinct and
pleasing variety.

The above four varieties came from Messrs.
K. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Gardens, Col-
chester.

T. Walter T. Ware.— A magnificent Cottage
Tulip, in which a fine orange-gold colour is a
feature. \Ve know of no other Tulip to compare
with it in this respect. The flower is large
and shapely, the petals being finely pointed.

T. Inghscombe Yellow. — In the form and
general bearing of the flower we regard this a
Darwin Tulip, but perhaps it should be placed
among the cottage Tulips. The flower is of
exceeding beauty and fine finish, its colour be-
ing a clear and good yellow.

T. Yellow Picolee. — A pretty Tulip, coloured
a soft canary yellow, and lightly edged with
scarlet.

T. Beauty of Bath. — A very distinct cottage
Tulip, coloured cream and yellow.

The above four varieties were exhibited bv
Mr. Walter T. Ware, Bath.

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the chair),
Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon, Sec), \V. A. Bilney,
De B. Crawshay, W. Bolton, H. Ballantine,
R. G. Alexander, H. A. Tracy. W. H. Young,
H. G. Morris, W. H. Wliite, Arthur Dve, G. F.
Moore, A. A. McBean. W. Cobb, W. Boxall, H.
Little, Elijah Ashworth, R. G. Thwaites, C. J.
Lucas. Jeremiah Colman, Harry J. Veitch, R.
Brooman- White, and Francis Wellesley.

H. T. Pitt, Esq., Rosslyn, Stamford Hill,
Eiaged a small group of five "gems" of the
favourite Odontoglossum crispum, most of which
h.-\d been shown previously, but never in such fine
condition. They were O. crispum Pittianum, that
magnificent blotched variety which was recently
illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle and which
was much admired at the time when a small plant
of it realised 1,150 guineas at Messrs. Protheroe &
Morris' rooms. The plant bore a heavy spike of
13 fine blooms. Scarcely less beautiful was a
noble specimen of O. crispum Pittiae, with two
spikes bearing 15 and 14 flowers respectively. This
finely-blotched form resembles Pittianum, but
shows more white between the blotches ; O. cris-
pum Capartianum, a grand flower with a singularly
arranged belt of reddish blotches around the
central larger ones; O. crispum Ashworthianum,
developed u.ntil the sepals and petals were nearly
entirely of a reddish-purple colour, with narrow
white margin ; and the very large and finely-formed
O. crispum " Magnum Bonum," a grand typical
white variety. (Silver Gilt Flora Medal.)

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr.
W. H. White), staged a very interesting and
brightly-coloured group of rare Orchids. At one
end was a collection of 24 very pretty Masdevallias,
including two varieties of the scarlet M. Rushtoni,
M. Chelsoni, several forms of M. caudata, M.
hieroglyphica, M. igneo-Estradae, M. Pourbaixii,
M. Doris, M. .\jax, M. Ferrieriensis, M. Stella,
lie. With them were bunches of cut spikes of
Epidendrum O'Brienianum, E, xanthino-radicans,
E. EUisii, E. Boundii, E. Schomburgkii, and E.
radicans. Also plants of E. glumaceum, the pretty
and rare white and violet E. Endresii, E. arachno-
glossum, E. elongatum, E. Linkianum, the pure
v,'hite E. montanum, the single lilac-coloured
hybrid Epi-Cattleya radiato-Bowringiana, the
rich scarlet Epiphronitis Veitchii, Dendrobium
iormoso-Lowii, D. Dallion-nobile, and a specimen
of the singular Bulbophyllum Reinwardtii. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Cypher & So.ns, Exotic Nursery,
Cheltenham, arranged a fine group, in which good
forms of Miltonia vexillaria, very handsome Laelia
purpurata, especially the large, finely-formed, and
richly coloured L. p. Duchess ; good Odonto-
glossums and Cattleyas formed the greater part.
Others noted were Cypripedium callosum Sanderae,
C. Harrissianum superbum, and a finely-coloured
hybrid between it and C. oenanthum superbum ;
good C. niveum, C. Fascinato-, C. Gowerianum

magnificum, and other Cypripediums ; Cattleya
Skinneri alba, good C. Schroderae, and a very
handsome C. Mendeli, with carmine rose-coloured
frilled lip. Also Laelio-Cattleya Hyeana, L.-C.
G. S. Ball, the singular L.-C. purpurata Acklandiae
and other hybrids. (Silver Flora Medal.)

A. S. GooDSON, Esq., Fairlawn. Putney (gr.
Mr. G. E. Day), staged au extensive and varied
group of Odontoglossum crispum, Cattleyas,
varieties of Miltonia vexillaria, &c., the group
having several specimens of Cymbidium Lowianum
with their long arching spikes arranged at the
back. With them were Laelio-Cattleya Zephyra,
L.-C. highburyensis, Laelia Latona, Ccelogyne
corrugata, good Cattleya Mendeli, Mossiae, and
Schroderae, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.)

C. J. Lucas, Esq., Warnham Court, Horsham
(gr. Mr. Duncan), showed an effective group of
Odontoglossum crispum and other Odontoglossums,
Lslio-Cattleya Hyeana, L.-C. G. S. Ball, and
others. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, had a
good group, in the centre of which was a fine
specimen of Cattleya Skinneri, with 72 flowers.
Around it were several of the pretty Dendrobium
Bensonae, and on each side selections of Cattleya
Mossiae and C. Schrbdera;. Specially noteworthy
were a distinct variety of C. Schroderae wiih pale
lilac sepals and petals, the front of the lip being
light purple ; a nearly white variety of C. Schro-
derae ; the handsome and darkly coloured Laslia
purpurata Davisii, and Cattleya Lawrenceana.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Baro.n Sir H. Schroder, The Dell, Egham
(gr. Mr. H. Ballantine), showed the fineand hand-
somely blotched Odontoglossum crispum Sanderi-
anum for which he received a First Class Certifi-
cate on May 12, 1885. The fine plant bore 11
flowers.

Franxis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), showed Cypripedium Lawren-
ceanum Hackbridgense, probably the finest
coloured form of C. Lawrenceanum, and which has
borne a high character ever since it appeared in
the collection of the late Mr. Alfred Smee. Also
Laelia cinnabrosa " Flambeau " with orange-tinted
flowers with a reddish glow, and Cypripedium
barbatum "The Premier," a large flower with fine
round dorsal sepal.

Col. Brymer, Ilsington House, Dorchester,
(gr. Mr. Powell), showed Ccelogyne Brymeriana X
(Dayana X asperata). A singular cross which,
althoughevidently correctly recorded, gives results
in effect somewhat resembling C. Massangeana.
The pendulous raceme of 19 flowers had the
sepals and petals whitish and the lip marked with
light brown colour.

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart.. Clare Lawn. East
Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Young), sent Odontoglossum
tripudians " Cecil Grey." A good flower heavily
barred with brown, and with white labellum with
a violet purple blotch.

Mr. Jas. Douglas, Edenside. Great Bookham.
sent Cypripedium Lawrenceanum " Douglas
variety." near to the green-tinted C. L. Hyeanum.

Messrs. J. & A. A. McBean. Cooksbridge. sent
Odontoglossum crispum "Aphrodite." .\ noble
typical form with very broad segments, tinted
with rose. The spike bore 12 flowers.

Major G. L. Holford. Westonbirt, Tetbury
(gr. Mr. H. G. Alexander), showed Cattleya
Mossiae Reineckiana. "Westonbirt variety." A
fine white with rose-purple markings on the lip.
The plant was magnificently grown and the spike
bore four iiowers. Also Odontoglossum crispum,
"Westonbirt variety," a splendid large-flowered
white form. The plant, which was an illustration
of good culture, bore three spikes — two of 11 and
one of 10 flowers — and secured for Mr. Alexander
a well-merited Cultural Commendation.

J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. J. Davis), sent Odontoglossum
ardentissiraum " Dorothy Fox," a pretty white
variety, blotched with rose-purple and formed like
a large O. Pescatorei.

Awards of Merit.

Cattleya intermedia " White Queen," from Francis
Wellesley, Esq.. Westfield. Woking (gr. Mr.
Hopkins). A charming, large pure white form,
an advance of the fine C. intermedia Parthenia
and with much broader and more openly dis-
played labellum.

Cypripedium Miss Louisa Fowler var. superba (Cham-
berlainianum x insigne var.). fromj. Gurney Fow-
ler. Esq., Glebelands, South Woodford (gr. Mr J.
Davis). One of the best of the Chamberlainianum
crosses. Upper sepal creamy white at the margin.

the central area emerald green, with heavy dotted
lines of chocolate purple ; petals tinged purple
and spotted on the inner halves ; lip pale rose,
with yellow margin.

Odontoglossum crispum aureum "Laburnum," from
JMessrs. J. & A. A. McBean, Cooksbridge. A
very extraordinary and beautiful form. Sepals,
pale yellow, tinged with purple at the back r
petals broad and fringed, pale yellow ; lip bright
yellow, with a few chestnut spots. In these extra-
ordinary variations there is always a suggestion of
hybridity at some remote period, but the crest is
the final test, and in this instance there is no
indication other than that furnished by O. crispum.

DiPLO.MA Awards.

Odontoglossums. First Diploma. — O. excellens,
"The Dell variety." from Baron Schroder (gr.
Mr. Ballantine). Second Diploma.— O. Coradinei
mirabile. from Baron Schroder. These twO'
awards were made on May 1.

Miltonia vexillaria. First Diploma. — M. v,
" Memoria G. D. Owen." from Sir Frederick
WiGAN. Bart., Clare Lawn. East Sheen (gr. Mr.
W. H. Young). Flowers large, pale rosy lilac
with a large triangular dark blood-red marking at
the base of the lip. The plant, though small, bore
a spike of verj' large and finely-formed flowers.
Second Diploma. — M. v. magnifica. from Jeremiah
Colman, Esq., Gatton Park (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound).
A very large and round flower of a bright rose
colour.

Hybrids of Epidendrum radicans. First Dip-
loma. — Epiphronitis Veitchii from Jeremiah,
Colman, Esq. The beautiful rich scarlet hybrid
between E. radicans and Sophronitis grandiflora
raised years ago by Messrs. Veitch. Second Dip-
loma.— Epidendrum Boundii (Burtoni x radicans),
from J. Colman. Esq. The very floriferous hybrid
raised at Gatton. The orange and yellow forms
were shown.

H. L. Bischoffsheim, Esq., Warren House,
Stanmore (gr. Mr. Ellis), and R. I. Measures,
Esq., Camberwell (gr. Mr. Smith), showed cut
examples of good forms of Laelia purpurata, but
no awards were made.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: Geo. Bunyard, Esq. (Chairman), amd
Messrs. S. Mortimer. A. Dean. H. Parr. Geo.
Keif, Ed. Beckett. J. Davis, J. Lyne, W. Barnes,
Geo. Reynolds, J. Willard, P. C. M. Veitch, C.
Foster, J. Mclndoe. Owen Thomas, and A. R.
Allan.

One of "the best exhibits was the half-dozen or
more Peach trees in pots shown by Messrs. T.
RiVERS&SoN,Sawbridgeworth, Herts. The varie-
ties were Duke of York and Duchess of Cornwall,
and a basket of fruits of the former variety was
shown separately. (Silver Knightian Medal.)

Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, exhibited about 50 dishes of
Apples. Although shown at this late season, they-
were fairly plump, and representative of the best
late keeping varieties. (Silver Knightian Medal.)

Lady Plowden. Aston Rowant. Oxon (gr. Mr.
W. H. Clarke), sent a box of extraordinary fruits
of Royal Sovereign Strawberries, to which a Silver
Banksian Medal was awarded.

Lord Aldenham. Aldenham House. Elstree (gr.
Mr. Ed. Beckett), showed 12 varieties of Cabbage
Lettuce in batches, the collective plants making a
large display. They were growing in 48's pots,
and looked very tempting. The best kinds were
Golden Queen, which had "hearts" as stout as
little Cabbages ; Buttercup, a pale-green variety
with tender leaves ; Iceberg, with crumpled leaves
that recurved, enclosing a fairly large heart, and
Marvel, a big reddish-brown variety. Bunches of
Tomato Sunrise were also shown by this exhibitor.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

The Horticultural College, Swanley, Kent
(gr. Mr. Lawson), put up a small collection of
vegetables — Cucumbers. Marrows. Lettuce and
Tomatos. with a couple of bo.xes of Royal
Sovereign Strawberries.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son. Highgate. London,
N.. displayed leaves of Hobday's Giant Rhubarb.

Mr. T. A. W. Metcalfe, The Gardens, Luton
Hoo, Beds., presented a new seedling Cabbage
Lettuce.

Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, Surrey,
displayed two boxes of Tomatos, the small, round.
Sunrise and the larger corrugated Winter Beauty.

Award of Merit.
Broccoli Peerless. — The plants shown from the
Wisley Gardens were undeveloped, but members

318

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May- 19, 1906.

ot the Committee were acquainted with its superior
merits, and the award was given mainly on their
recommendation. It is described as being exceed-
ingly hardy, dwarf, and of compact habit.

THE LECTURE.
Among flie SO new Fellows elected at the general
meeting of Fellows were Viscount Dalrymple,
Lady Gwendolen Little, Lady Letchworth, Lady
Lindsay Hogg, Capt. the Hon. L. F. King-Noel,
Baron Victor von Pelken, and iVIrs. Dudley-Smith.
An interesting paper on ■ ' Some Phases of Twentieth
Century Horticulture in the United States," by
Professor Corbett, Horticulturist of the Depart-
ment of Agriculture at Washington, was read, in
which he drew attention to the effect of the rapid
growth of the great centres of population and the
perfected railway facilities in the States, by means
of which , when the market garden supply became
too small for the local needs, trains were despatched
for 1,500 to 2,000 miles distance, which from
the warmer zones brought fruit and vegetables
formerly grown under glass, and thus luxuries
became necessities. The subjects of nature study,
experiment stations, land settlement, the rural
press, and assisted allotments were all included
in this comprehensive and interesting paper, which
will be published in the society's journal.

CROYDON SPRING FLOWER SHOW.

May 2. — The sixth annual spring flower show of
the Croydon and District Horticultural Mutual
Improvement Society, was held in the Horniman
Hall, Y.M.C.A., North End, on the above date,
and proved to be the best of all the spring flower
shows promoted by this society. No entrance
fees were diarged, no prizes were offered, exhibits
were cordially invited, and admission was free.

A prominent feature of the show was a collection
of plants staged by Mr. T. Butcher, of Croj'don
and South Norwood. Dr. Jackson (gr. Mr. W.
Panley) also sent a nice collection of plants, A
fine stand of Orchids was contributed by Mr. F.
\V. A. Radford, of South Park Hill (gr. Mr. T.
Padley) ; the group contained some excellent
Odontoglossums, Cattleyas, and Dendrobiums.
Mr. G. Curling, of Addiscombe (gr. Mr. W.
Bentley), sent a fine group of miscellaneous plants,
and another striking exhibit was that shown by
Mr. F. Lloyd, of Coombe (gr. Mr. M. E. Mills),
the collection being bulbous and hardy flowering
plants. Another miscellaneous group of plants,
conspicuous amongst which were some excellent
Calceolarias, came from the gardens of Mr. J.
Pascall. of Ambleside, Addiscombe (gr. Mr. A.
Edwards). The president of the Society, Mr. J.
J. Reid, of Coombe Lodge (gr. Mr. F. Oxtoby),
contributed a collection of flowering plants, which
included some very fine Mignonette, Stocks, and
Schizanthus. Two specimens of Asparagus Spren-
geri were also sent by the president. A very inter-
esting collection was that shown by Mr. C. A.
Blogg, of Hailing Road, in his group of Cacti
and other Mexican and South African plants.
Tulips were shown by Messrs. J. R. Box & Co.,
of Croydon, all of them being good in colour and
of standard varieties. An interesting cottager's
exhibit was put up by Mr. J. R. Filce, of Hand-
croft Road, the collection including Auriculas,
Pansies, and double Wallflowers. Messrs. E. W.
and S. Rogers, of Croydon and Thornton Heath,
sent a collection of Tulips and Narcissi, the Tulips
being very good, both in regard to size and colour.
Mr. J. J. Pitman, of Waddon (gr. Mr. A. Dyer),
showed herbaceous Caleolarias. Messrs. J . Cheal
& Sons, of Crawley, contributed rock, garden, and
Alpine plants, hardy flowers and flowering shrubs.
Hanging overhead, in the centre of the room, was
a large specimen of Asparagus Sprengeri, the
sprays, when fully extended, measuring no less
than ]2 feet ; it was shown by Mr. W. Baskett,
gr. to Mrs. Lanyon, Birdhurst. Messrs. J. Peed
<.V: Son, of West Norwood, had a display of
Gloxinias. The same firm also sent Alpine plants.
Clematis, and rock garden plants.

The microscope recently acquired by the Society
for the purpose of horticultural research was
exhibited in the room, and was inspected with
interest.

As regards the other great question under dis-
cussion— the affinities of the Coniferse— the data are
still very inadequate, for we have little knowledge
of the structure of the early forms of Coniferse.
In some Permian plants referred to Araucariese,
the structure of the wood was of the Aramarioxylon
type, a wide-spread form of wood, common to
Cordaiteae, Pteridospermes, and even Botryopter-
idefe, but almost wholly absent from the Lycopod
" phylum." Whatever the character may be
worth, it favours the common origin of the
Araucarian Conifers with the Cordaitean and
Pteridospermic series.

The existence of the Cordaiteae, offering clear
points of agreement at once with Pteridosperms,
Cycads, Ginkgoales, and Conifers, certainly sug-
gests that all these groups ultimately had a
common origin_ from the same great plexus of
primitive Fihcin'eEe. Ginkg:o itself forms a bond of
union between the Cordaitean phylum and the
Taxaceae among Conifers.

The Lycopods attained a high development on
their own lines, producing seed-like organs in
certain cases, and showing some anatomical ana-
logies with Conifers. A more exact comparison
appears to indicate that these characters are homo-
plastic [analogous] , and not indicative of any real
affinity with the higher plants.

NATIONAL FRUIT GROWERS'
FEDERATION.

Annual Gexeral Meeting.

May 4. — The fourth annral general meeting
of this Federation was held on the above date
at the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square.
Col. J-ong, M.F., took the chair at 3 p.m., and
amongst those present were Major A. Grifiith
Boscawen, Messrs. F. S. W. Cornwallis, T. A.
H. Rivers, F. Smith, G. E. Champion, W.
Home, H. F. Gething, Jno. Idiens, W. Idiens,
C. H. Hooper, G. F. Hooper, R. W. Cannell,
W. E. Wallace, S. Boorman, A. H. H. Mat-
thews, P. Manwaring, etc.

The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the
Council's annual report, said he thought fe
might congratulate the Federation on a fairly
successful year's work, which, however, could
have b;en much extended if the movement had
received more support from the main body nf
growers. He suggested that meetings should be-
held at leading centres in the fruit districts suc'.i
as Maidstone, Evesham, Wisbech, etc., with th •
double object of urging on the Government the
adoption of the recommendations of the De-
partmental Committee on Fruit Culture, and
of increasing the membership. Alluding to th'
Bill which had been prepared by the Joint Kail,
wav and Parliamentary Committee, he thougnt
it could not fail to be of great service to growers,
even if it did not become law exactly in its
present form.

Mr. F. Smith seconded the adoption of the
report, and, after a brief discussion, the motion
was carried unanimously. Col. Long then
vacated the chair, which was at once taken by
Major Boscawen, president-elect for the ensuing
year, who at once moved that Colonel Long 'oe
appointed to succeed him at the end of his year
of office. This motion being seconded by Mr.
A. H. H. Matthews, was carried wit'i enthu-
siasm.

Mr. A. Miskin was again appointed hon.
treasurer, and seven members of the Council,
retiring by rotation, were also re-elected.

The meeting then proceeded to consider,
seriatim, the recommendations of the Depart-
mental Committee. These are 40 in number,
and, taken as a whole, they were cordially ap-
proved by the members present, but several were
selected as being more urgently needed, and
these it was decided to press forward at every
convenient opportunity. It was unanimously
agreed that the President of the Board of Agri-
culture should be asked to receive a deputation
at an early date, and the Council was requested
to make the nccsssary arrangemants.

LINNEAN SOCIETY OF LONDON.

May 3.— Prof. W. A. Herdman, F.R.S., Presi-
dent, in the chair.

The discussion as to the origin and genealogy of
the Conifers was resumed by Dr. Scott, from
whose remarks the following note is extracted ; —

ROYAL GARDENERS' ORPHAN FUND.

Annual Dinner.
May 10. — The annual Festival Dinner, in aid of
che funds of this institution, took place on this
date at the Hotel Cecil, Strand, and, judged by
the total sum collected at, or in consequence of,
that function, it must be regarded as the most suc-
cessful of the whole of these annual gatherings of
which that of the 10th inst. was the eighteenth.

Tlie chair was occupied byj. Gurney Fowler Esq.,
treasurer of the Royal Horticultural Society, and
he was supported by a large and representative
gathering of the horticultural world, including
George Corbie Esq., the Masterof the Worshipful
Company of Gardeners, and George Bunyard
Esq,, the Master of the Fruiterers Company.
The dining room was transformed into a verita-
ble floral hall, through the kindness of friends
and supporters of the charity, who contributed
cut flowers and foliage to adorn the tables, and
groups of plants to beautify the s.urroundings.
After the loyal toasts had been honoured, the
Chairman proposed the principal toast of the
evening, " The Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund."
.\t the outset he referred to the loss the Fund has
sustained in the death of Lord Mansfield, the
Chairman at the preceding dinner, a gentleman by
whose influence and support the funds of the
Society were greatly benefited.

Referring to the good work done by the charity , he
reminded his bearers that every one benefits from
theworkof thegardener, andthatit istohimweowe
our beautiful gardens with their fruits and flowers.
But in performing this work the gardener has to
battle with the elements, and in doing so incurs
considerable risk to his health, for he is often
subjected to piercing winds and cold, after having
previously been engaged in a tropical tempera-
ture indoors. Gardeners as a rule marry early,
and are often the fathers of large families, which
w-hen trouble comes are cast into the world. It is
then the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund is anxious
to afford help. But the income is small and not
all is done that could be wished, and he appealed
to the whole of the country to do its share in the
matter of subscribing to the funds. The work of
the society is spread over the whole of the king-
dom, and not a few of the beneficiaries are to be
found in Scotland.

Mr. Ed. Sherwood, the hon. treasurer, in reply-
ing to the toast, enumerated some of the good
work done by the institution, and gave a short
recapitulation of its history. The society has
;£^11,500 in investments, and besides the income
derived from the interest on this money, the
receipts last year included fyHI from subscribers,
f,'2.0i donations, and /750 gathered at the annual
festival dinner, and of these sums /1, 400 was dis-
tributed to orphans. Gratifying as this was, it w as
altogether inadequate to meet the demands on the
fund, for whereas in 1900 they were enabled to
elect all the nominees on the charity, there were
now 21 orphans awaiting election. He reminded
his hearers that the society aids the children in
apprenticing them, and in many cases in pro-
viding clothes in order to help them make a start
in life. He concluded by making an appeal to
.gardeners themselves to aid the fund, and said
that if they contributed 2d. per week during
January and February and Id. per week for the
remainder of the year, they would become recog-
nised subscribers and be entitled to vote at the
elections.

The next toast was that of " Gardeners and
Gardening," proposed by S, Woolley, Esq., and
responded to by Mr. George Bunyard, V.M.H.,
M.W.C.F., one of the members of the first com-
mittee of the Fund,

Mr. W. H. Cutbush proposed " The Visitors,"
and referred to the presence of the Masters of two
City gardening companies, an event which had not
been recorded before Mr. Geo. Corbie, W.M.G.C.,
in replying for the visitors, said he hoped also
to be present another year. The toast of the
"Press" was proposed by Mr. W. Bates and
responded to by Mr. C. H. Curtis. The Secre-
tary announced the result of the dinner to be a
record both in attendance and in the sum sub-
scribed, the latter totalling the sum of ;f 1,001 15s.
.\mong the principal subscribers and collectors
were those following : —

J. Gurney Fowler, £bO: Hurst & Son, 50 gns. ;
Leonard Sutton, /50 ; Messrs. Rothschild, 25
gns.; J. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., 25 gns. ; Jeremiah
Colman, 20 gns. ; Cleorge H. Cuthbert. £il 16s. ;
George Cuthbert, /'a 18s. Gd. ; George Reynolds,
/43 5s. ; Edwin M. Hellier, /20 ; Frances
Robinson, /20 10s. ; Barr & Sons,/10 10s. 6d. ;
T. F. McLeod, £10 10s ; J. R. Roberts, /lO 10s. ;
F. Noakes, £IQ lOs. ; Baron Schroder, ^10 10s. ;
George Caselton. /ll 14s. Gd.; Whitpaine Nutting,
/ll; Mrs. W. G. Head, £10; T. W. Sanders,
/13 Os. Gd. ; R. Hooper Pearson. /14 15s. 6d. (in-
cluding 5 gns. from the Gityiimers' CJtroniclc, Ltd.);
Jno. Lyne, £1 12s. ; F. C. Fear, £d, 3s, ; T. A.
Morris, £1 7s. ; Covent Garden friends, per Mr
Assbee, /200, and numerous smaller amounts.

May 19, 1906. J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

31'J

m:ark:ets.

Plants in Pots, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices (Contd.)

CO VENT GARDEN, Muy 76.

We cannot accept any responsibility tor the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us regularly every
Wednesday, by the kindness of several ot the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
mast be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several times
in one day. — Ed.]

Cut Flowers. &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Anemones (pink)
doz- bunches...

— coronaria vane-
ties

— fulgens, fl. pi.
Azalea nidica., per

doz. bunches
Azalea mollis, doz.

bunches
Calla a:tliiopica,per

dozen

Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best Aniencaii

various

— smaller do. ...

— Malmaisons ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms

Deodiobium War-
dianuinand no-
bile, per doz.
blooms

Eucharis grandi-
fiora, per doz.
blooms

Gardenias, per doz.
blooms

Gladiolus, Blush-
ing Bride, per
dozen bunches

— The Bride
Gypsophila eie-

gans, per doz.
bunches
Iris germanica, per
bunch

— Spanish, per
doz. bunches...

Ixias

l-ilac, per bunch ...
Lilium auratum ...

— canilidum, per
bunch

— lane if oil um,
rubrum and
album

— longiflorum ...
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen
bunches

— extra quality ...

s.d. s,a.
1 G- 3 0

1 6"
3 0-

3 0-50

4 0-60

•2 0-4 0
10-26
U 0-10 0

8 0-12 0

16-20

9 0-12 0
U 0-12 0

3 0-40

0 9-10

2 6-50
2 6-40
2 0-30
2 6-30

16-20

2 0-30
2 0-30

4 0-80
■J 0-12 0

Marguerites, white,
p. dz. bunches

— yellow, per dz.
bunches

Mignonette, dozen

bunches
Myosotis, per doz.

bunches
Narcissus, per dz.

bunches

— bicolor

— ornatus
Odon toglossum

crispum, per
duzeii blooms

OriiitliogaluHi (Star
of Bethlehem)
per lioz. bchs.

Pc 1 arg on i u m s,
show, per doz.
bunches

— ilonal, double
scarlet

Primula, double

white, per doz.

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos^ ....

— Bridesmaid ...

— Kai se ri n A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty

— Mad. Carnot...

— Mad. Chatenay

— Mrs. j. Laing
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches ..
Tulips, per dozen

bunches

s.d. s.d.

2 0-30

2 0-30

2 0-80

2 0-30
2 0-30
10-20

2 0-26

16-20

3 0-50
5 0-60

5 0-60

2 0-30

2 0-40

2 0-40

3 0-50
2 0-40

10-20
2 0-60

2 6-30

3 0-60

3 0-50

4 0-60

2 0-30

3 0-60

4 0-80

special quality 12 0-18 0

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

bunch ...

— ^- short sprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri
Adiantum cunea-

luni, doz. bun.
Bertieris, per

bunch

Croton leaves, per

bnnch

Cycas leaves, each
Fern, English, p.

dozen bunches

s.d. s.d.

6 0-]
1 G-

0 G-
0 6-

4 0-
2 6-

1 0-

1 6-

2 0-30

. s.d. s.d.
I'erii, l-'rench, doz.

bunches ... 3 0-40
Galax leaves, per

doz. bunches... 16-20
Hardy foliage

I various), per

dozen bunches 2 6-40
Ivy-leaves, bronze 16-20

— long trails per
bundle 10-20

— short green,

doz. bunches... 2 0-30
Moss, per gross ... 5 0-60
Myrtle, per dozen

bunches ... 3 0-60

Smilax, per dozen

trails 3 0-60

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Acacia armata, per
dozen

Ampelopsis Veit-
chii, per dozen

Ar a li a Sieboldi,
per dozen

— larger

Arancaria excelsa,

per dozen

Aspidistras, green,

per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

Asparagus plunio-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri,doz.

— ten uissimus
per dozen

Azaleas, per doz.

Begonias (tuber-
ous), per dozen

Boronia elatior, per
dozen

— heterophylla ...
Calceolarias (Her-
baceous), per
duzen

— yellow

Callas, per dozen ..
C hry santhemum

segetum
Cinerarias, per dz.

s.d. s.d.

9 0-18 0

6 0-80

4 0-60
12 0-15 0

12 0-30 0

18 0-31) 0

24 0-36 0

9 0-12 0
9 0-10 0

8 0-10 0
18 0-30 0

5 0-80

18 0-24 0
18 0-30 0

3 0-50

4 C- 6 0

5 0-80

6 0-10 n
3 0- r> 0

Clematis, per doz.

— in tlower
Crassula, hybrid,

per doz.
Crotons, per dozen
Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen

— laxus, per doz
Deutzias, per doz.
Drac^nas, per doz.
Erica, Cavendishi,

per dozen

— candidissima...

— persoluta

— ventricosa
magnifica

Euonymus, per dz.

Ferns, in thumbs,

per loo

— in60'G

— in48's,perdoz.

— in32's,per doz.
Ficuselastica.p.dz.

— repens, per doz.
Fuchsias, per doz.
Genistas, per doz.
Heliotrope, per dz.
HydrangeaHorten-

sia, per dozen

— Thos. Ho:/g ...

s.d. s.d

8 0-90

15 0-24 0

12 0-15 0
12 0-30 0

9 0-18 0

4 0-50
4 0-50

6 0-90
9 0-24 0

24 0-25 0
18 0-24 0
24 0-30 0

24 0-^2 0
4 0-90

7 0-10 0

16 0-25 0

4 0-10 0
10 0-18 0

9 0-lS 0

5 0-80

6 0-90

5 0-90

6 0-80

9 0-24 0
12 0-24 0

.d. £.d
Kentia Belniore-

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0
— Forster iana,

per dozen ... 12 0-21 0
Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 12 0-18 0
Lilium Icngiilorum

per dozen
— lancifolium,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen

Lobelia

Marguerites, white,

per dozen
Mignonette, p. doz.
Musk, Harrison's,

per doz.
Pelargoniums

(Zonals), per

dozen

s.d. s.d.

Pelargonium s,

Ivy-leav'd,p.dz. 5 0-80

— show

Petunias, double,

per doz.

— single (in GO's
1 only)

15 0-24 0 j Rhodanthe, per dz.
Rhododendrons,

per doz.
Roses, per dozen .. ;
18 0-30 0 : Sasifraga pyrami-
5 0-60

18 0-24 0

9 0-15 0

6 0-80

16-26
4 0-60

18 0-30 0
12 0-18 0

6 0-12 0
4 0-60

3 0-50

.'\ p p I e s — South
Australian :

— Adams' Pear-
main, per case 11 0-13 6

— Jonathans, per
case 14 0-18 0

— Monro's Fav-
ourite, per case 13 0-16 0

— New York
Pippins, p. case 14 0-16 0

— Rymers, per
case 10 0-12 6

— V/ellingtons,?.

case 14 0-16 0

Nova Scotians,
per barrel :

— Nonpareils ... 22 0-25 0

— Ribston Pippin 12 0-13 6

— Blenheim i'ip-
pin 18 6-21 0

— King of Tomp-
kin's County ... 25 0 —
Canadian, per
barrel :

— New York Im-
perials

Tasmanian :
Ribston Pip
pin, per case..
Tasmanian
case :

— Sturmers ... 11 6-15 0

— French Crabs.. 11 6-13 0
~ Alfrestons ... 11 (>-13 0

— Sc. Pearmains 13 0-16 0

— Prince Alfreds 12 0-13 0

> 0-10 0

5 0-60
8 0-10 0

s.d. s.d.

dalis, per doz. 12 0-18 0
Selaginella, dozen 4 0-60
Spiraea japonica,

per dozen
Stocks (Inter-
mediate), per

I dozen

j Verbena, MissWill-
0- 8 0 I motl, per doz..
Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.
s.d. s.d. .,

Dates, Tunis, per

box

Figs, per dozen ...

Grapes (English),

Black Hambro,

per lb

— Muscat, perlb.

— (Cape), small
cases ...

— large cases ... '.
Lemors :

— Messina, case 9 6-15 6

— Naples, p. case 20 0-35 0
Lychees, per box... 0 10- 1 0
Melons, each ... 13-26
Nectarines, English 4 0-12 0
Nuts, Cobnuts, per

4 0 —
2 0-70

20-3 6
2 0-40

3 0-60
0 0-12 0

25 0-28 0

16 0 —

N.Y. Pippin
.\pricots (French),

per box
Bananas, bunch ...
^ No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...
^ Extraquality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per dz.
Cherries (French),

i bushel

— boxes

Cranberries, casc---

Vegetables

12 0-16 0

7 0-86
5 6-66

8 6-10 0

11 0-13 0
4 6-60
0 8-13

12 6-13 0

10-20

13 0-14 0

doz. lb 8 0 —

— Brazils, new,
per cwt. ... 42 0-48 0

— Spanish, per
bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per
bag 24 6 —

— Monkey Nuts,
per bag ... 18 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,
cwt 35 0 —

^Chestnuts, Italian

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 G-13 6
Oranges, Valeutia,

per case ... 11 0-35 0

— Murcia ... 8 0-16 0

— Navel 11 6-14 0

— Jafl"a 12 0-13 6

— Jamaica ... 10 6-11 0

— Blood 9 6-11 6

Peaches (English),

per dozen .. 6 0-15 0
Pears (Cape), p.box 4 0 —

— C a li f o rnian,
box 8 6-96

— stewing varie-
ties,per A bush. 2 6-30

— stewing, crate 10 6 —
Pineapples, each... 2 6-14 6
Plums (Cape), per

box 10 0 —

Strawberries, p. lb. 2 0-30

— Second quality 10-13

Average Wholesale Prices.

0 il-

1 3

1 0-

1 6

n 4-

0(!

0 5-

0 7

4 6-66

n 6-

0 8

0(i-

0 8

0 6

—

U 6

—

3 0-46

1 0

—

0 6-

08

0 6-

08

0 9-

13

.\rlichokes, Green

French, p. doz.
Asparagus, per

bundle : —

— Toulouse

— Montauban ...

— Barcelona

— Dijon

— Giants

— Spanish

— Sprue

Ucaiis,French,p.lb.

— Broad, perpkt.

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— Channel Island
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, sprout-
ing, per bushel 16-19

— per doz. ... 10-20
Cabbages, Spring,

per dozen ... 10-16

— red, per bushel 2 0 —
Carrots, French pad 3 0 —

— pef bag, un-
washed

— bag, washed ...

— new, per dozen
bunches

Cauliflowers, per
tally

Chow Chow, p. dz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles

Leeks, I2 bundles

Lettuces, Cos, per
dozen

— French, perdz.

13-16

2 0-26

4 0-50

3 0-10 0
16-20
19-26
19-20

10 0-14 0
16-30

2 3-33
0 6-10

s.d.

s.d.

Marrows, per doz.

2 0-

3 0

Mint, per dozen ...

4 0-

6 0

Mushroon)s(bouse)

per lb

0 lU-

1 0

— Buttons, per lb.

1 0

—

Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun.

1 0-

1 6

Onions (English),

bag

4 9-

5 0

— Valencia, case.

10 0

—

— pickling, per

bushel

H6-

4 (1

— French, h bag..

23

—

— Spring, dozen

bunches

1 6-

:'. II

Parsley, 12 bunches

1 0-

1 6

Peas (French flats)

3 0-

4 0

— English, perlb.

0 6-10

Channellsl'nds 0 6-10
Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt.... 11 0-14 0

— Channel Island
Kidneys ... 0 2A- 0 3

Rhubarb, per doz.

bundles
Spring greens, per

bushel

Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Sea Kale, p. punnet
Tomatos : —

— Foreign, bundle
of 4 boxes

— English, per lb.

— small selected
Turnips, per doz.

bunches

— bags

— new, per dozen
bunches

TurnipTops, bush.
Watercress, per

doz. bunches .. 0 4

2 6

—

10-13

40
0 9

—

15 0-
0 6-
0 5-

20 0
08
07

1 0-
1 0

1 6

r, 0-

1 0-

7 0
1 6

Asparagus has been and is very cheap owing to the Fnglisb-
grown being in the market contemporaneously. Trade
generally has improved somewhat. — E, H. Ridcz, CotcrJ
Garden^ IVediiesday, May 16, 1906.

PoTATOS.

Blacktands, 70s. to 75s. ; Lincolns, 70s. to 80s. ; Scotch
Greysoils, 60s. to 65s; Dunbars, 85s. to 90s. per ton. Canary
New Potatos, 12s. to 14s. per cwt.— John Bath, 32 and 34^
Wclliiif^ton Street, Covciit Garden.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

The season for the sale of bedding plants is now
at its height. In the London district much of the
bedding stock is grown in 48 pots, but in the country
60 pots are used. Zona! Pelargoniums are now re-
markably good, in both 48 and large 60 pots. Among
the best sorts are Mrs. Brown Potter, a very fine pink
variety; Mrs. H. Cannell, salmon; Snowflake, the best
single white; Gloriation, scarlet. In Fuchsias is seen
nothing new. The same may be said of Show Pelar-
goniums. Good plants are seen ol the old and popular
sorts, but they do not sell so well as they formerly did.
Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums are in much demand. ' Well-
grown plants of Galilee were making i8s. per dozen
this morning. Autumn-sown Mignonette is not quite so
plentiful, but spring sown plants are coming from
several growers, and, although noi far advanced, it is
useful for boxing and bedding work. Best pl-|.ts of
Verbenas, Miss Willmott and Scarlet King, keep up
best prices, but others are sold very cheaply. Mr.
Sweet is marketing an especially good variety of xellow
Calceolaria, which obtains 8s. per dozen, but ordi-
nary sorts do not realise more than 4s. or 5s. per dozen.
Chrysanthemum segetum, in single and double forms,,
are now very good. Nice specimens of Heliotrope are
seen ; some growers have excellent unnamed seedling
varieties. Lobelia in flower is plentiful. One grower
informs me that during the past two or three years he
has found a difficulty in keeping Emperor William, the
favourite market variety for many years. The double
blue variety will, I believe, make a useful market kind.
Good double Petunias in 48's realise from Gs. to Ss. per
dozen. It is remarkable the quantities of single
Petunias in 60 pots that are sold. The growers all
appear to have a special strain of tlieir own. Harri-
son's Musk is not in such great demand as formerly^
and prices are low. Rhodanthe is over-plentiful. Mar-
guerites can he had in all sizes. Cinerarias are still
plentiful, and have little demand. This morning 1
noticed some pleasing plants of Hydrangea Mariesi with
a blue tint in the flowers. Several growers have H.
HortensLa of a blue shade, but it is questionable if it
is decided enough to be appreciated. Trade in Ferns
and otlier foliage plants varies little, and does not
satisfy growers. I think, however, that in the near
future small palms will become dear, as seeds are
becoming scarce.

Cut FtowiiRS.

Daffodils are almost over for the season, but we now
see a glut of Spanish Irises. Rose-growers are
still having a bad time of it. I lound at closing time
this morning large quantities of blooms remained un-
sold. Some beautiful specimens of Boulc de Neige
were making but 2s. 6d. per dozen. Supplies of Ldiums
are still excessive. Lily of the Valley is not quite so
plentiful. Consignments of Callas are becoming less,
but there are sufficient to prevent any advance in prices.
Sweet Peas were never so plentiful at tTiis season of
year. Gladiolus The Bride is good, but the imported
bloom detracts from the value of the home-grown
flowers. Large quantities of Odontoglossum crispum
remained on the stands at closing time. Carnations
are plentiful and good. Cut foliage of hardy subjects
is now mostly the soft spring growth. Asparagus,
Smila.x, Maidenhair Fern, etc., are all well supplied,
and in bronze foliage the Galax leaves are most useful.
.4. //., Covetit Garden, Wednesday, May 16, igoO.

Rkmarks.— The first French Cherries of the season Iiave
arrived. Oranges are arriving in a bad condition. Imported
-Vpples are arriving in better condition than of late, and are
realising good prices. Strawberries are still abundant.
Supplies of Cape Grapes will finish this week. French

©bituavi).

John Barron. — In our last issue we briefly
announced the death, on May 7, of Mr. John
Barron, of the firm of William Barron & Son,
landscape gardeners and nurserymen, Elvaston
Nurseries, Borrowash, near Derby. Mr. John
Barron was born on June 8, 1841, at Elvaston,
where at that time his father, William Barron, was
agent and gardener for the 1th Earl of Harring-
ton, and was the greatest authority on coniferous
plants and on the removal of large trees. In
1851 Mr. Barron commenced business as a land-
scape gardener and nurseryman, and in 18G5 he
was joined by his son who had been studying
landscape gardening abroad.

In 1886 Mr. Barron, sen., retired from the
business, and from this date Mr. John Barron
carried it on. Mr. John Barron, like his
father, has always been a successful trans-
planter of large trees, the most notable of
which, since he in conjunction with his father
successfully moved the Buckland Yew near Dover
(which was 1,100 years old and mentioned in the
Doomsday Book), was the John Knox Yew at
Longbank, Scotland. Under this Yew tree it was
that John Kno.x administered one of his first
sacraments. In the way of laying out parks, &c.,
public and private, perhaps his most notable work
was the .\bbey Park, Leicester, which was trans-
formed from a bog to one of the most up-to-date
public parks out of London. Mr. John Barron
was also well known in the agricultural world.

520

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[MaV 19, 1903.

and besides being a very keen judge and breeder of
shire horses, liis name was generally in the prize
list at one of the leading shows.

Rev. James Morison Crombie, F.L.S. — This
gentleman, who died on May 12, at Ewhurst,
Surrey, aged 76, was one of the few students of
LicheiTs in this country, but we believe that up
till the last he refused his assent to the opinion
that Lichens are of a dual nature, partly fungal,
partly algal. His best-known work is •• \ Mono-
graph of Lichens found in Britain, 1894."

Mrs. H. B. May.— We understand that the
funeral of Mrs. H. B. May, whose death is
recorded on page 312, will take place on Saturday,
May 19, at .8.80 p.m., at Lower Edmonton.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

liEECii Trees : Gardener. Vour trees are affected
with the " Coccus " scale, to which Beech trees
are very liable. When the tree is quite young
and small, you can get rid of it by the use of
petroleum emulsion, and by the vigorous ap-
plication of a scrubbing brush. But if the trees
are large you can do nothing.

Begoni.^s : J. II-'. The leaves are affected with
mites and thrips. Try washing 'he plants with
tobacco water and get fresh soil or bake the old
to sterilise it.

Carnations: A.H.M. The plants have been
potted too deeply and have rotted accordingly.

Corrections. Owing to an oversight, part of
p. 300 was printed without the necessary correc-
tions having been made. Cattleya Schroder
should be C. Schroderae ; Kochia sooparia should
read K. Scoparia. Dr. Stapf informs us that
lie will shortly oblige us with an article on this
latter plant.

Cucumbers : G. M. Send us a sample of the

; roots and foliage and we will endeavour to
ascertain the cause of injury.

Gooseberry Caterpillar : T. \V. G. The larva
of the Gooseberr)' moth Abraxas grossulariata.

Fig. 128. — THE gooseberkv caterpillar and

MOTH, ABRAXAS GROSSULARIATA.

I;;sects in Cucumber Beds : H. B. The little
white insects you send from your Cucumber
lieds are immature specimens of one of the
Poduridae or " Springtails," but they were so
battered in transit that it is impossible to say to
Avhat genus or species they belong. The soil
should be thoroughly sterilised by baking.
The woodlice were probably the cause of
more injury to the Cucumber' plants than the
" Springtails." '

Lily of the Valley : Miss P. We believe your
plants have suffered from some climatic change
which has impeded proper growth.

Market Prices; E. A. D. IF. We believe the
firm you have mentioned does a very good busi-
ness. In regard to your returns not being equal
to our priced list, it may be useful to point out
that the prices given are those obtained for best
•luality blooms, and are average prices. We
could better judge of the value of your produce
if you would send us a sample as you pack them
for, market. Considering the over supply that
lias been sent to market, the price vou name
for Enchantress is very fair, but that given for

Princess of Wales appears low. All market
nurserymen should occasionally visit the market
and judge of the quality of the goods for them-
selves. Great difficulty is often caused by the
over supply, and those who receive flouers to
sell on commission have had a difficult task to
obtain satisfactory prices during the past few
weeks.

Mushrooj: : E. D. The malformation is due to a
weaving together of the hyphae, or threads,
of the one carpophore with the other, bringing
about a complete union of growth between the
two, although they both started independently.
We have figured similar cases in our pages.

Names of Plants : W. T. Staphylea pinnata
and Amelanchier vulgaris. — A. McL. Laslia
purpurata. It varies considerably in colour.
Yours is a good white petalled form ^. II'. M .
1, Claytonia perfoliata ; 2, Chserophyllum sil-
vestre: 3, .Vlliaria officinalis, — Giasgoiv. 1,
Amygdalus nanus ; 2, Too shrivelled to recog-
nise, send later; 3, Berberis stenophvlla; 4,
Ligustrum japonicum ; 5, Rhododendron myr-
tifolium ; 6, Forsythia viridissiraa, — R. Mijiit^'sli.
Lotus Peliorhyncus, a native of Teneriffe. —
E. B., Worthing. Ribes aurea. — Orchids. 1,
Epidendrum Stamfordianum ; 2, Epidendrum
alatum ; 3, Brassavola nodosa grandiflora : 4.
Dendrobium chrysanthum ; 5, Phyllanthus
angustifolius, often called Xylophylla elnngata
in gardens. — Manor. 1, Sedum Sieboldii ; 2,
Dicentra e.ximia ; 8, Alyssum saxatile ; 4, Iresine
Heibstii and Iresine Herbstii aureo-reticulata ;
G, Chlorophytum elatum variegatum. — ^'1 . McK.

1, Dendrobium chrysotoxum ; 2, Dendrobium
Pierardi.— C. .-il. i?. 1, Masdevallia simula ; 2.
Masdevallia caudata; 3, Trichopilia laxa ; 4,
Stelis ophioglossoides ; 5, Epidendrum gluma-
ceum ; 6, Epidendrum elongatum ; 7, Soph-
ronitis cernua.— .■). Y. L. 1, Epidendrum
fuscatum ; 2, not yet identified ; 3, Sacco-
labium ampullaceum.— /. - H. G.. Wicklow.
The flower sent is a very good form of
Laslio-Cattleya Aphrodite (L. purpurata x C.
Mendeli.— i(. A. 1, Oncidium Wentworth-
ianum ; 2, Vanda coerulescens ; 4, Selaginella
\-iticulosa.— CaH)/A-« Hill. Pyrus (Sorbus) pin-
natifida.— H. //. Darmstadt. A formof Prunus
Padus. There is in English gardens a form
called P. Padus Alberti, which differs only in
size of flower. Your specimen may be of that
variety. — 0. A. Amelanchier vulgaris. — F. C.
Asphodelus luteus. We have no time to waste
over such miserably inadequate specimens. If
you send them in flower we shall be pleased to
help you. — E. B. 1, Cupressus Lawsoniana ;

2, Thuya japonica : 3, Cupressus Lawsoniana ;
4, Kerria japonica ; 5, Prunus Padus ; 6, Spira?a
arguta ; 7, Berberis vulgaris. — F. H. 1, Leuco-
ium vernum ; 2, Berberis buxifolia; 8, Spiraea
Thunbergii ; 4, Prunus sinensis, double flowered
variety. — 11'. P. Larix europcca. — G. F. T.
Daphne Laureola. — L. S. Ccelogyne cristata.
This may be potted now ; give a good supply ol
rain water till the growths are finished. — /. C,
Michcldcrer. Prunus Padus.— il//ssL. Narcissu;.
biflorus, not a reversion, but a true species, wild
in some counties of England. — C. G. 1, Smyr-
nium Olusatrum ; 2, Chasrophyllum silvestre. —
T. B. 1, Halesia tetraptera ; 2, Abies nobilis :

3, Picea Morinda alias Smithiana ; 4, Variegated
form of Cupressus Lawsoniana ; 5, Cupressus
sempervirens ; 6, Cephalotaxus Fortunei ; 7,
Cupressus Lawsoniana variety.

Nectarine : /. W. N. The injury is due to a
typical example of gumming. The cause of this
disease is obscure ; lifting the tree and adding
lime to the soil has, in some instances, produced
beneficial results. We reproduce, at fig. 129,
an illustration published some years ago in these
pages.

P.eony : 7. L. The buds have rotted, perhaps
from drought at the roots. We do not see any
trace of the fungus which is sc destructive to
these plants.

Palestine Rose : Mrs. B. The Rose you mention
is probably Rosa hitea, of which the Persian
Yellow is a cultivated form.

Pe.\ches : E. P. Shothole fungus. See .Answers
to Corre.spondents in iast week's issue.

Pea : F. F. What you send is a fasciated variety
known as the " Crown Pea. " The mummy storv
is a myth.

Plum: IV. D. The tree has the silver leaf disease,
often described in our columns. We agree with
your treatment as on the whole the best plan to
be adopted.

Privet Hedge : Hedge. You had better consult a
local solicitor unless a pacific arrangement can
be made which would be more satisfactory.

" TaTur DisEEs." The book noticed in our last
issue may be had post free from the author,
C. T. Druery, Esq., Moorgate Street Chambers,
E.C., at a low price.

Tomatos Diseased : M. O. U. The disease is
fungoid, caused by Cladosporium fulvum. Dress
the plants with Bordeaux mixture (see p. 1.36 of
the Calendar of Garden Operations), and aftord
more ventilation to the house in which they are
growing.

Tulips Diseased : J. J. The plants are affected
with a fungus Botrytis parasitica, often de-
scribed in our Answers to Correspondents
columns. Burn all diseased plants and plant
in a fresh quarter another year.

Fig. I2Q. — nectarines diseased through

GUMMING.

Vegetables and Salads for Exhibition in
August : Correspondent. The following selec-
tion of eight kinds of vegetables is recommended
to you, and we have mentioned a good variety of
each kind : — 1, Cauliflower, Autumn Mammoth :
2, Celery, Debbie's Invincible White ; 8, Leek,
the L\-on ; 4, Onion, Ailsa Craig or Cranston's
Excelsior ; 5, Carrot, New Red Intermediate: 6,
Potato, Windsor Castle; 7, Runner Bean.
Carter's Emperor ; 8, Pea, The Gladstone. For
a collection of salads you might select as man\-
dishes as you require from the following : —
Cucumber, Sutton's Epicure ; Lettuce, Superb
White (Cos) ; Radish, Round White ; Tomato,
Polegate (choosing medium-sized fruits) ; Mus-
tard and Cress ; Onions, White Queen (small
growth) ; Endive, Batavian ; Celery, Sutton's
Dwarf Gem ; Corn Salad ; Mint; Sorrel.

Vine and Peach leaves injured : Derby. We
find no trace cf fungus disease on the vine
leaves, but the appearance points to injury from

• scalding, such as would be caused by synnging

- ivith a strong solution of some insecticide. Fir-
lie^ oil used in a concentrated form upon the
yorjt; leaves would be sufficient to account for
the damage. The I'each leaves have been
burned by the sun. Moisture has condensed
on the tips of the leaves and has acted as a lens
in concentrating the rays, hence most of the
injury is found at the apices of the leaves,

\'iNES : /. S. B. The leaves are scalded when
moist by the sun's rays, ventilate more freely
when circumstances permit. — J. H. Your vines
have been checked in their crowth and there
<u-e signs of insect mischief, but without further
information we cannot tell you the cause. —
F. G. B. Your vines are in a bad state — the
berries are spotted and shanked and the leaves
are also diseased ; examine the border, for
trouble at the roots appears to be the cause of
failure.

Communications Received. — C. H. P.- C. \V. D. — S. M. B.
—A. B. Brixton, next week.— S. C, next week.— G. W. K.
—J. W. N.-R. B. R.-H. D. S.— E. H.— H. N.-S. C.-A.
C. B.-l. D. G.-T. H. S.-C. H. P.-J. J._S. A.-H. W.
--W. H. S.-J. W.-Mc. H.-H. F.-Mc. Millan— T. H.--
.1. H. \-.

I'ar '.'.':.'.l!i:y Rcprrls sec fagc xii.

Supplement lo the "Gardeners' Chronicle.'

From a photograph supplied by Dr. Franceschi.

A NEW SPECIES OF TeCOMA FROM RhODESIA.

(T. regin.e Sabae. Flowers light rose netted with crimson, throat yellow.)

Temple Press Ltd., Printers. 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.C.

Mav 26, 1908.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

o21

THE

^ixrbcncrs'Cbronick

No. 1,013.— S.iTURDAY, May 26, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Agapanthus globosus ...
Alpine garden, the —

Heloniopsis brevis-

capa

Ants in lawns, to destroy
Books, notices of —

Art of Garden Design
in Italy

Dorking and Leather-
head Handbook ...

Pictorial Gardening...

School and Garden ...

The Book of Rarer
Vegetables

Publications received
Bouquet of Pansies, a

royal

■Cabbages, spring
■California, damage sus-
tained by plantscnen in
Carnation Society, the

new ..

C hi n ese note - bojk,

leaves from my
Colonial note —

Horticulturel display
at Port Elizabeth ..

Delphiniums

Kuphorbia Wulfenii ...
ICxhibiting vegetables ...
Flowers in season
Foreign correspondence-
Nurserymen's visit to

Holland

Rome, a note from

Forestry

Fruit prospects in Essex
Kew gardens at Easter

time ..

Lisianthus RusselHanus
Obituary —

Ellwanger. G. H. ...

Whale, W. L

Orchid notes and glean-
ings—

Odontoglossum cris-
pum " Jean B. Peel-
ers "

Rhododendron Gill's

Triumph

Rose Marechal Niel -.
Rose sawfly, the
Saxifraga Boydii x

Schizanthus

Silver-leaf disease in

Laburnum

Societies —

British Gardeners'
Association

Herefordshire Fruit
Growers

Manchester and North
of England Orchid

National Tulip

Royal Agricultural ...

Royal Botanic

Royal Horticultural

(Scientific Committee)

Royal Scottish Arbori-
cultural

Surveyors' Institution
Seeds, the germination

of

Spring flowers in the

Western Himalayas...
Temple flower show, the

forthcoming

Tulip, a new species of

Vases, garden

Water gardens

Week's Work, the—

Apiary, the

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits xmder glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ..

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Euphorbia Wulfenii ... ... ..

'Tutipa Fosteriana, a new species from Bokhara
Vases, ornamental garden (Supplementary Illustration)
Venetian Vase in the gardens at Downside

325
332
332
333
332

329

335

334
335
329
334

333

335
329

321

322
328
322

327
327
326
325
326
326

.S31
323

327

SPRING FLOWERS IN THE
WESTERN HIMALAYAS.

THE llrst flowers of the year arc always
welcome, but especially so to those who
dwell in the dried-up plains of India.
Imagine the delight of finding- one-
self in the mountains, with spring just
waking- trees and plants to life, after their
long sleep under the winter snows.

We were lucky enough to be in th" Hima-
Inyas at the very commencement of .April.
On April 4 we arrived at Dalhousie. which
is some 6,500 feet high, and found the
snow still lying thickly on the north side of
the hills. It was really winter yet, and the
banks were innocent of flowers and Ferns —
the paths were strewn with dead leaves.

Some few days later we left Dalhousie and
marched to Chumba b\- the low road— the
other two were not open yet, being still
blocked by snow or landslips.

As we descended the mountain sides, and
walked through the valleys, we were de-
lighted to see flowers peeping out here and
there. Almost our first was a shrub with
a brilliant yellow flower (Reinwardtia tri-
g-,vna) ; then, still lower in shady places by

streams, we found a pretty little rock plant
with cuplike yellow flowers. I have not
been able to identify this latter. It was on
our first day's march to Battrec that we
found these two.

On the way from Battree to Chel we had
to climb up a bare rocky hillside, the path
leading over a col, to the other side of the
mountain range. Here a glorious sight
awaited us— a splendid panorama of the
mountains covered with snow, bcvond the
Ravee River opened in the distance, while
all the mountain side we stood on was
clothed with Rhododendrons in bloom (R.
arboreum). They grow to the size of trees,
with gnarled trunks quite iS inches in
diameter ; the flowers are very large, cherry
red, and are borne in great profusion. I
have never seen anything like the show of
colour on that hillside, unless, perhaps, it
were the -Azaleas in bloom on the banks of
Lake Chusenzi, in Japan.

From Chel to Chumba we had a very
varied march, sometimes climbing bare,
rocky hills, at other times following the
course of a stream through narrow valleys,
and eventually gaining lower altitudes, with
villages, the little wooden houses nestling
among fruit trees — Pear trees, white with
blossom (Pyrus lanata), and .\pricots, a mass
of pink (P. armeniaca), just as are the vil-
lages of Somerset or Devon.

Here we found many more flowers. In a
shady spot by a stream Begonias grew, with
waxy, pink blossoms. Purple Iris, too, ap-
peared in vigorous clumps ; these were
sweet-scented, and a very dark purple. !
cannot discover the name, as Collet does not
mention them in his " Flora Simlcnsis."
[Two species are mentioned in that beck —
I. nepalensis and I. kumuonensis — both with
lilac flowers.]

.Among the Barley fields on a level bit of
the Ravee River grew some very pretty
mauve Lilies (L. Thomsonianum), their long
trumpet-shaped flowers showing up well
against the \oung green.

Tulips, too, were flowering by the side of the
paths — white, with pink stripes outside, the
inside being tinged with yellow (Tulipa stellata).
They were very fine, almost as large as garden
Tulips at home.

After a few days spent in Chumba town, we
walked up the Sao valley by the river bank, and
ascending to a plateau some 300 feet above it,
we pitched our camp within sight of the snow
mountains. On the march there we found
things were more forward — the fruit blossom
was nearly over, and the Barley well in advance
of the fields near Dalhousie.

By the side of the path grew very large
Buttercups (Ranunculus hirtellus), and the
banks were literally covered with the yellow
flowers of the Potentilla Kleiniana and a very
fine Geranium of a particularly brilliant shade
of pink, with a dark spot in the centre of the
flowers (G. ocellatum).

On ascending to the plateau, the flora changed
again, and we found some of our old friends,
the Tulips, and Iris ; also a mauve Lilac. We
camped under Pear and Apricot trees still in
bloom, while the grass round was thickh'
strewn with pale mauve Violets (scentless),
Potentilla, and two kinds of Vetch — a verj'
bright redj and yellow varieties {Lathyrus
sphaericus and L. Aphaca).

After a couple of weeks spent at Sao village
it became warmer, and we found that we must
shift camp to higher ground ; so we followed
the river some five miles towards its source,
and camped by its banks in a wood — LOOO feet
higher up than our last resting place. On our
way there we came across large bushes of

Spiraea growing by the water edge (S. sorbifoliai,
still covered with the withered blossoms of the
previous year. Our wood was only just wak-
ing up. Ferns peeped out of their coverings of
dead leaves, and many of the trees were but
putting forth their first young shoots.

But as the days went on, things changed
visibly — Violets carpeted the ground, together
with Potentilla. Thider fallen trees and moss-
covered rocks. Maiden-hair Fern abounded, to-
gether with another Fern which must resem.bled
it, but was larger and coarser. A species of
-Asparagus, too, bracken, and many of our own
favourites clothed the slopes.

During May we had quite hot weather,
though a delicious breeze off the glacier at the
head of the valley made it very pleasant ; and
then we had quite a number of surprises, A
knotted old tree covered itself with blossom
and proved to be Honeysuckle (Lonicera quin-
quelocularis) ; it seemed so strange to find it a
tree, and not climbing as at home. Feathery
Bamboo grew in clumps wherever they could
get foothold (Arundinaria falcata), and formed
a very pretty undergrowth. In a shady ravine
a large flowering Clematis montana spread its
snowy blossoms in sheets of white, twining and
festooning itself over everything. The river
banks and grassy hillsides were studded with
well-grown bushes of Berberries, the flowers
hanging in rich profusion and making gay spots
of colour (B. aristata). Deutzia staminea also
abounded, and the sweet-scented Philadelphus
coronarium.

Some hundreds of feet above our camp, on
the higher slopes of the mountain, grew sweet-
scented Violets, of a very dark purple colour
(V. Patrinii) ; also a sweet little Primula, which
ranged in colour from pale pink to deep red
(P. denticulata).

-A mauve flower like a sweet Sultan was to
be found, but I do not know its name ; neither
can I trace a shrub with a pink flower close on
the stem, which appeared before the green
leaves. It was very like a Daphne. Just be-
yond our wood, a high rocky cliff descended
abruptly to the rim. Here we could see Indian
chamois (gooral) leaping from ledge to ledge,
feeding on the young grass that grew in the
crevices. There were vivid patches of yellow,
showing up well against the brown rock. Thete
consisted of great clumps of St. John's wort
(Hypericum lysimachioides), and others of
bright purple-red were Indigoiera Gerardiar.a.

Higher up in the mountains grew a tree, with
deep yellow flowers, very sweet scented ; it had
thorns too, and was very much like au Atacia,
but I am not certain. (Query: A. Farnesiana?)
The Roses in our wood grew to an enormous
height. They were standard trees with great
trailing branches covered with clusters of
flowers — about twenty or thirty in each ; the
flowers were large and sweet-sce::ted (K.
moschata).

On June 4 we left a wood and retraced our
steps to Chumba. On the way we noticed
masses of Jasmine, both yellow and white (J.
humile and J. officinale), with a very powerful
scent like a Gardenia ; Roses, of course, in pro-
fusion, and tall bushes of I'omegranate, covered
with scarlet flowers.

The Spiraeas (S. sorbifolia) that we had seen
on our way up were also in bloom — great clus-
ters of white flowers. I think they were finer
than any cultivated ones I have seen at home.

We stayed a couple of days in Chumba, but
it was intensely hot and we were glad to move
to Khajiar, a little valley in the mountains at
a height of 7,000 feet, surrounded by Deodars.
We had a very steep pull up. We had to ascend
some 5,000 to 6,000 feet, so naturally we found
a great variety of flowers that day. As we
reached cooler climes we met the purple Colum-
bine (-Aquilegia pubiflora), with very large
flowers ; a great many Dandelions (Tara.\acuin
officinale), not beautiful exacth', but welcomeOl
gladly as old friends ; plenty of Primulas,

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 26, 1906.

Salvias (blue), and quantities of the mauve-
purple Indigofera.

The valley of Khajiar is covered with fine
short grass like a lawn at home — eaten down
b}' the numerous herds of cattle, as it was good
grass with plenty of Clover in it (T. repens).

The trees were magnificent, Deodars and
various kinds of Pines. On' June 20 we left
Khajiar and bade adieu to our camp life, as
the rains were threatening and we had to take
refuge in an hotel at Dalhousie. The walk was
beautiful through shady woods, and fairly level.
At about 7,000 to 8,000 feet we met a peculiar
Horse Chestnut tree — ^sculus indica, I think it
was. The trunk was formed of scales lapping
over each other, after the manner of an Arma-
dillo— quite unlike any I have seen before.

There were a good many Colombines and
Indigofera, also a tiny flower like a Michaelmas
Daisy (Aster moUiusculus). Another mauve-
pink flower proved to be Gerbera lanuginosa.

As we commenced the descent to Dalhousie
we came to a grassy slope absolutely covered with
Anemones — white, and white tinged with blue
outside (this latter is A. obtusiloba) ; but I
cannot find the name of a very pretty blue
Anemone that grew in the same place. The
rocks were overgrown with a white flower like
Arabis — which was really a Gypsophila — and
another small mauve flower (Micromeria bi-
flora). At Dalhousie we found another rock
plant with a round ball-like pink flower,
Polygonum capitatum. On the way we also
saw a large white Fotentilla with a sweet scent
(P. Fragarioides), a yellow Oxalis, and a mauve
flower very like a Verbena (Androsace lanu-
ginosa). A bright pink Rose we saw half-way
down, with a single flower, on a small bush
rather like a briar.

I forgot to mention while we were encamped
in our wood, very high up among the topmost
slopes, we came across a blue Salvia (S. Moor-
croftiana) ; also a yellow Aconite (A. lycoc-
tonum), and a very brilliant blue Delphinium
denudatum, which was a thing to be remem-
bered. M. Gordon.

THE ROSARY.

MARECHAL NIEL.
This fine rose was used for covering a pillar
15 feet high in the conservatory here for many
years, and it made a magnificent show in April
and May, filling the house with its rich fragrance.
It was budded on to an old Banksian rose which
had been planted in a hole made for the iron
pillar in the paved floor, under which the roots
wandered away completely out of control, and it
was always a mystery how they obtained sufficient
nourishment and moisture for the exuberant
growth annually produced. The Marechal Niel
bud was inserted m a young shoot, a little
thicker than a lead pencil, in the spring, when the
bark parted readily from the wood. Growth was
very vigorous, and as soon as the flowering period
was over it was cut hard back. The next pruning
was given in the following winter, when the weaker
shoots were thinned out and those that were left
for producing the bloom pinched. When the
flowering season came round every bud on these
produced a flowering shoot. It was at its best in
the third and fourth years, 300 blooms being
counted on it at one time, but, after that, canker
became serious and it was usually cut down in the
fifth or sixth year and the stock budded afresh.
Now the old Banksian serves as a stock for a
Gloire de Dijon, which has been blooming profusely
for some weeks past, and by judicious pruning
and tliinning another crop of bloom can be obtained
m August, the time they are most wanted in bloom
here. M.McN. By Grccnoclt. N .B.

TULIPA FOSTERIANA.

This beautiful species is one of the many Tulips
which have recently been introduced from Bokhara
by Mr. C. G. Van Tubergen, jr. It was first
shown at a meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, on April 25, 1905, by Miss Willmott, of
Warley Place, Essex, when an Award of Merit
was given to it. At a recent meeting of the same
society, it was again exhibited in fine condition.
The accompanying illustration at fig. 130, is from
a drawing made by Mr. Worthington G. Smith,
from flowers sent to the Editor by Mr. van Tuber-
gen. The flowers are of very large size, and of a
rich , intense, glowing, crimson colour, with a darker
blotch at the base of the segments. It is a wel-
come acquisition to an already numerous and
popular family of garden bulbous plants. Like
T. Tubergeniana, this species has a certain
affinity with the older T. Eichleri, but it is distinct
enough for garden purposes. Of robust habit,
and as easily grown as many of the other brilliant
species from this part of Eastern Turkestan. T.
Fosteriana will probably become a favourite plant
when more common. W. I.

WATER GARDENS.

(Continued from page 393.)
Plants for the Banks of Lakes.

The higher banks of lakes are often furnished
with a type of vegetation not wholly in accord
with their surroundings. Plants like the Sea Buck-
thorn, Hippophae rhamnoides, Spirjea Lindley-
ana, Catalpas, Magnolias of the Yulan type which
never look so grand as they do when by the
waterside ; the weeping Ash and Willow, Bam-
boos of the Phyllostachys group, a clump or
more of the Moonlight Broom, Cytisus scoparius
sulphureus, and others of Cytisus praecox, can
be used with advantage, for many of these will
help to furnish a display of interesting flowers and
foliage in early summer time. Here and there a
grouping of Larch in the background will reveal
wonders in leaf colouring, seen in contrast with
the bronze tints of Oaks in spring. Such trees
are often objects of great beauty when grown
quite close to the water's edge, and they are,
moreover, suitable in conjunction with the
common Bamboo and Taxodium distichum for
concealing the source of the water supply of the
lake, and works incidental thereto.

The grouping of plants at the water's edge
calls for considerable care. Nothing short of
bold grouping will suffice; and if one starts with
groups of a few of the many very elegant grasses,
they will help to make the water scene appear
natural. Arundo Donax— the tallest reed,
Arundo conspicua — a refined " Pampas " grass,
the Bocconias or Plume Poppies, the Ferulas,
the Miscanthus, Phormiums, Bamboos, and
many others, will thrive well in places subjected
to occasional floodings without receiving harm,
and will do without much attention when once
they become established. These represent the
noblest grasses and foliage plants the water
garden can possess, and each species is effec-
tive either when isolated or with lesser plants
around them. Acorus calamus, an Iris-like
plant for a sheltered position, will enjoy ,i
swamp. Gunneras manicata and scabra delight
in a rich root run with moisture at the bottom,
and should occupy a position on a grassy slope,
dipping to the water's edge, or placed on a pro-
montory to accentuate a break in the water's
margin. Give these plants isolated positions
worthy of their grandeur. The best of the Poly-
gonums, such as Weyrichi, chinense, and the
better forms of cuspidatum, sphaerostachyum,
etc., whose flowers are developed in Spira;a-like
sprays or plumes, are eminently fitted for plant-
ing by the water's edge. They need ample
room for their development, but they are wortny
the space they occupy, for their foliage is hand,
some all through the summer, while their

flowers are splendid in early autumn. Thes3
plants are effective also when associated with-
deciduous trees and shrubs, and they will exist
under conditions unfavourable to the majority
of other waterside plants, and in addition to
their use as ornamental subjects, they often
serve a useful purpose in holding up banks
that the water would otherwise fritter away.
Polygonum sachalinnse, well described by a
friend of mine as a " big tramp," is a desirable
' subject for its giant growth alone ; its 10 feet
high arching rods are laden with ample leaves
at midsummer, and it should occupy a position
in any water scene of magnitude.

1'"loweeixg Plants.
Irises, ranging from our native species to the
glorious Japanese Flags, offer a great selection
of waterside plants. Much controversy has.
taken place as to the requirements of what are
known as the tall, beardless Flags, but one
has only to see them in groups by the waterside
to realise their needs. They delight in a soil
of the richest possible character, and they are
not inconvenienced if their stems are partially
submerged during ceitain pjriods of the year,
nor if they are grown without water entirely,
save that derived from the ordinary rainfall.
Iris aurea, I. Monnieri, I. gigantea, I. spuria,
and hybrids between all these four species are
of this description. They range from 4 to 6
feet in height, and their leaves resemble those
of the giant Reed Mace ; indeed, they are simi-
lar habited plants to Typha. Another section
of Irises for the waterside includes I. Delavayi,
all forms of I. Kaempferi or laevigata, and
they are legion ; the Siberian Iris, Iris versi-
color and its forms, I. cristata, and others rare
and good. The Japanese Irises embrace at
least 50 varieties that are unequalled, perhaps,
by any other species in this fine group. They
thrive well when planted in mud, exposed to
full sunshine, and should be raised half a foot
above the water level. They should, I think,
be grouped alone. The other grassy Irises are
effective grown in masses, either as a collec-
tion of species intermingled, or forms of one
species in each group ; they may always be
planted with a free hand in any waterscape
without fear of over-planting, as they add mate,
rially to the beauty of the water's margin in the
months of July and August, whilst their foliage
is an ornamental feature throughout the whole
growing season. Another group of handsome
plants for the large lake comprises the Spiraeas,
Astilbes, and Cimicifugas. Reviewed collec-
tively, they represent the choicest of ilowers for
our purpose. Their foliage is elegant in the
extreme, rivalling that of many Ferns ; and
their inflorescences are unsurpassed for their
wealth of soft colouring that is peculiarly fitted
for waterside display. Chief of the Astilbes is
the new Davidii, a bold columnar plant that
should be planted in a setting of Astilbe " Silver
Sheaf," and exposed to the strongest light in
order that the quaint colouring of its plumes
may be rendered more appreciable. Astilbe
rivularis, Thunbergi, Chinensis and its forms,
and the hybrid, " Snow Plume," are other good
examples of a pretty race. These plants revel
in the leafy deposits of ponds, consequently
-sites prepared for them should contain plenty
of leafy material ; none, however, appreciate fre-
quent submersion of the root-stock. The Cimi-
cifugas are a race of quaint plants, whose flowers
are arranged in numerous cylindrical spikes of
considerable length. Their foliage resembles
that of Astilbe, and their cultural requirements
are identical with those of these plants. They
appear at their best when massed together
and isolated from other types of vegetation.
All the species are white flowered. ~ Spiraeas are
a more varied group. Chief of these is the giant
S. Kamtschatkaensis or gigantea — a splendid
plant, growing 2 or 3 yards high, with stout
stems, giant Sycamore-shaped leaves, and
flattened creamy plumes each forming dis-

May 26, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

323

Fig. 130. — TULip.v fosteri.\na, a new species from Bokhara; colour of flowers glowing crimson.

324

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

TMav 2G, 190(i. ■

tinct and haiidfome features. This plant sbould
be isolated from other subjects, and grouped in
numbers to get the full benefit of its noble habit;
Spiraea venusta, a lovely pink-flowered species,
in habit akin to the common Spiraea Ulmaria,
and S. palmata and its forms, alba and elegans,
in rich pink, white, and silvery pink colours
respectively. The foregoing can all be planted
freelv at the water's edge, in just those positions
where the common Spirasa is found wild. They
are benefited by plenty of moisture, and are
capable of presenting many pleasing effects
when grouped among common Rushes and slow-
growing .shrubs in the most informal way, and as
far from the water's edge as the planter pleases
to place them, provided there is always plenty of
moisture at their roots. The free use of Funkias
such as K. Sieboldi and F. Fortunei, whose
leaves are massive and coloured glaucous green,
affords welcome clumps of cool-looking leafage
that will destroy any pretentions of a flower
border where much colour is used, and one can.
not have too many such plants in goodly
" breaks '' wherever the planting of gaudy sub-
jects has been done in excess. Gillenia trifoliata
is one of the prettiest shrubs for a small group.
Its flowers and leafage are small, but the
growths have that pretty, "twiggy" character
that one always welcomes as a foil for the bolder
type of waterside plants. Other flowers suitable
for the waters edge include the \Yillow Herbs
and Loosestrifes, of which there are many wild
examples and numerous improved garden forms,
but they must be introduced sparingly or they
will spring up in every direction and dominate
everything else. The white form of Epilobium
angustifolium, Lythrums virgatum and roseum
superbum, Lysimachias, clethroides, bary-
stachys, japonica, and verticillata are all good
for this kind of planting. Three good Lilies lend
themselves for waterside planting wherever there
is a good leafy soil or peat, viz., L. pardalinum,
L. ca.nadense, and L. superbum. These are too
slender in their growths to withstand much
buffeting by winds, etc., but if they be planted
in a setting of Gillenia they will derive suffi-
cient protection, and their presence will help, in
a great measure, to give a" different aspect to
portions of the water garden. Primula japo-
nica, and P. sikkimensis thrive in any cultivated
ground, but they are hopelessly incapable of
succeeding when entangled with other plants,
Smilacina racemosa, with ivorv-white flowers,
and Saxifraga peltata, with curious peltate
leaves and tall pink flowers in umbrella-like
panicles, are both useful plants for cooler sites
— they are seen at their best in a .setting of
Ferns, and do not mind slight shade. Rodger-
sias and Podophyllums, Paris, and Osmundas
may all contribute to a vi'ealth of flower and
foliage without endangering the aspect of the
ideal water garden, but any large planting of
border Phlox, Ilemerocallis and other plants
rightfully belonging to the flower border will
defeat the object of the best-planned water gar-
den by robbing it of its individuality, and will
make it appear to be what it too often becomes
without effort, a " dumping " ground for spare
plants from the garden. G. B. Mallctt.
{To be contiitucii.)

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

The Book of Rarer Vegetables. By George
Wythes, V.M.M., and Harry Roberts. (Pub-
lished by John Lane, The Bodley Head,
London, and New 'i^ork ; price, 2s. 6d. net.)

We have in this book volume XX. of the
handbooks of practical gardening, edited by Mr.
Harry Roberts. The cultural portions of these
books are supplied by eminent gardeners, and

in this instance the author is Mr. Geo. Wythes,
head gardener to the Duke of Northumberland,
at Syon House, Brentford.^ Mr. Roberts fur-
nishes the several recipes for cooking and serv-
ing the various vegetables, tubers, and roots, of
which the handbook treats. We could have
wished he had translated into the English lan-
guage the various names of the dishes, most of
them. Italian, French, and Spanish, for the bene-
fit of those readers not conversant with these
tongues. The cultural directions leave nothing
to be desired. The chapter on Globe Artichokes
is a very good one ; but, incidentally, we may say
that we prefer the name Crosnes for the tubers
of Stachys tuberifera, rather than that of
Chinese Artichokes, for they are certainly not
Artichokes, though they do come from China.
Unless the available land for this crop is very
limited in area, it would be an advantage to
plant the sets of the Globe Artichoke at IJ feet
apart rather than 6 to 9 inches, as recommended,
the greater space thus afforded giving the
heavier crop.

The Capsicum in its various forms is referred
to in a long chapter, and the cooking recipes
for the same are many, and but little known in
this country. The author in writing of the
Cardoon confuses the terms air and light ; for
the object in excluding the light from the leaf
stalks is to blanch them, as is done with Celery.
We are puzzled to know what is meant by
"Mignonette'' in Mrs. Rundell's recipe for
cooking Cardoons.

Mr. Wythes objects to the term, "Turnip
rooted " as applied generally in this country to
Celeriac, and would rather use that of "tuberous
rooted," though that, of course, is technically
inaccurate. In the details given of the summer
cultivation of this plant, the diligent removal of
offsets and of the lowermost leaves receives no
notice, yet it is an important point, for the
offsets rob the tubers of nutriment, and, to-
gether with the leaves referred to, shut out much
light and air from the plants. We find no men.
tion of the method of winter storing of the
tubers, because, perhaps, our winters are not so
severe as is the case in Germany, Austria, Hun-
gary, parts of Russia, and Scandinavia. In
these countries it is the practice to take up
Celeriac in October, remove all the leaves but
the nearest rosette in the centre, and plant
the tubers closely together in damp soil, in
frost-proof cellars, where light can reach them.

The cultivation of ths Egg plant in its several
forms is fully treated, and a number of recipes
is given for cooking them. Chenopodium bonus
Henricus (Good King Henry) is mentioned,
the tops furnishing a wholesome vegetable
in the young state ; but no remarks are made of
the use of its farinaceous seeds ; although, in
writing of another Chenopod — C. quinoa — the
seeds are said to be much appreciated as an ad-
dition to soups, and in breadmaking, in some
parts of South America. The plant is a native
of Peru, and is too tender for out-of-door culti-
vation in this country.

Under Rhubarb, the new variety, Daw's
Champion, a very early variety, and Cham-
pagne, one of the best flavoured, are mentioned
among others. The latter has the property of
coming true from seed, which is not the case
with other varieties ; and the sowing of its
seed is recommended, rather than propagation
by root division.

The merits of Yams and Sweet Potatos are
spoken of at some length, and their cultivation
recommended, but we much doubt their adapta-
bility to our climate. The Chinese Yam (Dios-
corea batatas), however, succeeds in deep,
porous soils in southern England and Ireland,
producing club-shaped tubers of from 2 feet to
3 feet in length and 5 to 6 inches wide in the
middle. The methods adopted by the Chinese

in cultivating these plants — and they have many
varieties — are given. Other subjects treated
include the Nettle, Chick Pea, Lentil, Chicon.-,
Evening Primrose, Hop, Maize, Nasturtium,
Oxalis, Patience (a species of Rumex), Rocam-
bole, &c., v.'hich omnivorous man puts on his
table in various lands, but which are scarcely
known, or not at all, in these islands. The
book contains 36 illustrations.

The Art of Garden Design in Italy. By

H. Inigo Tnggs, A.R.l.B.A. (Longmans,
Cireen and Co., London.)

This is one of the handsomest books on
gardening that has come under our notice for a
long time past, and the author and publisher
must be congratulated on the amount of artistic
skill that has been bestowed upon it. The
pages measure 17 inches by 13, which affords
ample scope for the artist, who illustrates, ir
a series of full-paged plates, the many historic
and interesting Italian gardens that are dealt
with by the author. The book is beautifully
printed in old style type, with a liberal margin
such as book lovers delight in. It is bound in
buckram, with a gilt top, and the get-up gene-
rally is of a high order of merit. The illustra-
tions are a special feature, and comprise a
hundred and twenty-eight finely executed plates,
of which seventy-three are produced in collo-
type from photographs specially taken by Mrs.
Aubrey Le Blond, and the others are half-tone
reproductions with numerous plans, sketches,
and measured drawings of garden detail for
which Italian horticulture is so renowned. On
the subject of garden design in Italy, wa can
say but little in the narrow space at our com.
mand ; we can only deal with the chief features
of this handsome volume itself.

The most important illustrations are full-
paged views of many of the most famous Italian
gardens, the selection including not only those
in the north, but also some of the principal in
and around Rome, Naples, and the island of
Sicil)'. The villas selected number in all
between forty and fifty, and in some cases there
are several plates showing different views in
the same gardens. Thus Isola Bella, the BoboH
Garden, the Ro3'al Palace of the (Juirinal, the
Vatican Garden, the Villa Pamphili, the Villa
Medici, and the Villa d'F.ste each have three
or four full-paged plates devoted to them. The
lithograph plans form an important feature of
the work, and there are twenty-seven of the
most important places dealt with in this way.
As the publishers say, gardens can hardly be
judged by pictures and photographs alone, and
it is essential that, in order to form a correct
judgment of their design, these should be supple-
mented by a survey drawn to scale. The book
therefore will, besides appealing to the meus
traveller who has pleasant memories of a holiday
perhaps long since past and gone, be of service to
the student of the art of laying out gardens as
it was practised in Italy, the forerunner of all
other European nations in this matter.

The text, which is lavishly interspersed with
pictorial matter, begins with an historical intro-
duction tracing the history of garden planning
from the early days of the Roman Republic
downwards. Then in succession follow special
chapters on the various villas and gardens
selected for illustration, beginning with the
famous terraced gardens of Isola Bella, in Lane
Maggiore. There are many sketches of garden
detail, and also some curious reproductions from
old engravings of famous places, inserted
throughout these chapters. Then we find
accounts of villas on Lake Como, and the
famous gardens in and around (Jenoa, Pavia,
Verona, Florence, and Siena.

Of peculiar interest both as regards the pic-
tuies and the text are the gardens of the Royal

May 26, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE.

32o

Palace of the Quiriiial and of the Vatican.
Rome generally is well represented and treated
generously, for the Villa Borghese, which is now
threatened with destruction for modern r'^quire-
ments, the \'illa Pamphili, the Villa Chigi, the
VU'a Corsini,th'e Villa Medici, the Villa Albani,
and the Palazzo Colonna each claim an im-
portant share of the author's and the artist's
attention. Other places of exceptional interest
at I'rascati, Tivoli, Caserta, and Palermo are
all dealt with in the same liberal style.

The book is dedicated by special permission
to Queen Margherita, and is one well worthy
of that honour.

PrcTORiAL Gardening. By G. F. Mullin.
(Methueii i>v: Co., 36, Essex Street, London,
W.C.)

In "Pictorial Gardening" w-e have a work of
j3i page.s, d'Vo., embodying ideas which many
of us feel, but cannot well succeed in imparting
by rule and measure to others. If one wants a
guide in laying out a little patch anew, or
making alterations in an old one, it is just the
one to afford the required suggestion. The
author is a believer in the dictum, oft-times de-
rided or disregarded, that the garden-maker
should go to the natural world for the main
source of his ideas, whether the garden is to be
large or small. If it is to be laid out or altered
to advantage, it must be treated on ths prin-
ciples suggested by nature, and with the definite
purpose of affording " scope for the play of
sunshine and shadow, haze and mist." He
acknowledges that the desired effects do not
always come when they are expected, but,
like all the pleasant things of life, they appear
when least expected, and are alwaj^s evanescent
and capricious. Knowing this, the author
rarely, if ever, dogmatises or lays down rules
for doing this or that, admitting that successful
landscape gardeners, like poets, are born, not
made, which in the main is correct. Ruskin, he
writes, endeavoured to show by what rules
Turner was guided in painting his wonderful
pictures, but he failed to give more than an
outline, the rules or methods not being capable
of being imparted or stated.

We were glad to note the importance at-
tached to good breadths of lawn or grass land
in British gardens as supplying the most rest-
ful kind of background or setting ; even wood-
land scenes are made more charming by the
presence of open, grassy glades. How much is
this restful verdure missed in the summer
months in Continental gardens which have no
artificial water supply !

The author's remarks on the use of trees and
shrubs are most suggestive and pertinent, and
though he pays great attention to the matters
of light and, shade, he has much thought for
such prosaic things as drainage of lawns, level-
ling, manuring, digging, and the value of fine
old turf in forming a lawn, and failing that
essential commodity, of clean grass seeds, or by
inoculating the land with small bits of good turf.
In the making of paths he is, we think, a little
bit heterodox, not being a follower of the
"thorough,"' but, it must be confessed, verj'
expensive, methods advised by most land-
scapists. He leans to Macadam's later method,
if the ground be fairly firm, of- taking out the
shallowest of trenches, or merely laying on the
surface of the soil broken stones, and by ram-
ming and rolling thus forming out of these a
hard, firm, compact bridge or covering, into
which no moisture will penetrate and under
which no drains will be needed.

There is much besides that is unorthodox in
the book, but in a general way it is a sate and
trustworthy guide, filled with novel ideas and
poetic fancies that will please if they do not
alwaj's convince.

THE ALPINE GARDEN.

HELONIOPSIS BREVISC.\PA.
This pretty little plant, which received an award
of merit at a meeting of the Floral Committee of
the Royal Horticultural Society last spring, is
still comparatively scarce and beyond the reach
of the majority of cultivators of hardy border and
Alpine flowers. As it becomes more plentiful it
will probably become cheaper, and there is no
reason why it should not be highly appreciated by
admirers of the early flowers of the year. I have
had the pleasure of flowering it this spring, and
am glad to be able to speak favourably of this
comparatively new claimant for our favours. At
its first opening I was disappointed with the
appearance of the short scape of white flowers
which surmounts the short stem, altogether not
more than six or eight inches high. The small
white flowers at this stage are not so pure
white as they afterwards become, and it is only
after the blooms have further developed that
the pretty deep lilac stigiha and stamens are
visible, and these give the Heloniopsis quite an
attractive appearance. .\t this stage it is a plant
which will commend itself on close inspection ;
and in a still more advanced stage, when the
flowers are somewhat past, they develop a pretty
rosy red colour. It is seldom that a plant im-
proves so much upon acquaintance. One regrets,
however, that the name of Heloniopsis given to
t le genus is so liable to be mistaken for that of
Heliopsis. I have seen the specific name given as
breviscarpa in error for breviscapa. This species
was first described by Maximowicz in the Bulletin
of the Academy of St. Petersburg in 1867, but it
appears to have been only recently introduced into
Great Britain. It belongs to the Liliaceir. and
comes from Japan. I have cultivated it success-
fully in a small peat bed in a partly shaded
position, where it seemed quite hardy. I am of
opinion that it prefers a rather moist position, and
last summer and autumn I kept it well supplied
with water while it was developing and finishing
Its growth. S. Aniott.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

RHODODENDRON "GILL'S TRIUMPH."
This is undoubtedly the finest of all the beauti-
ful Rhododendrons raised by the painstaking
hybridiser, whose name it bears. At the recei t
Cornwall Spring Flower Show this hybrid was
much the best flower in the hall ; it even outshone
the well-known Gloria (but surely it should be
"Glory") of Penjerrick, which is own sister to
" Gill's Triumph," and was bought from Mr. Gill
in a batch of unflowered seedlings, which yielded,
amongst other fine forms, the gigantic "Trebiano."
" Gill's Triumph " isa cross between R. Thomsoni
and R. Aucklandi, and bears in large trusses
beautiful rose-red flowers, quite distinct from
any others. Unfortunately those shown were
second-rate in point of size ; an unusually severe
frost and hailstorms had ruined the finest blooms
only a few days before the show was held.
It makes a handsome bush, well furnished with
rich green leaves fully 9 inches long. Mr. Gill's ex-
hibit— by the way he has been the first prize winner
in the open collection at every show of the Cornwall
County Society — was composed of a galaxy of
beautiful blooms, many of them being unnamed
seedlings. Unfortunately these Rhododendrons
flower too early in the year to be a success, except
in the warmest parts of the county, but much
may be done in the way of giving them sheltered
positions, such as in the less dense portions of a
well-thinned Beech wood. They are so beautiful
as to be w-ell worth growing, even if they only give
a good display once in half-a-dozen years. A. C.
Bartktt.

ST.\NDARD FORSYTHIAS.
It is rarely one sees the Forsythia trained as .i
standard, but I have a plant 6 feet high, with head
about 9 feet through , that was lately covered with
a mass of yellow flowers. I prune the shoots of
the head every spring, as soon as possible after
the flowers are over, to within two buds of
their base (like a standard Rose). With the
exception of the removal of a few inches of
unripened terminal points in winter, this is all
the attention it receives. These standard plants
are objects of great beauty in March and April,
dotted about in shrubberies, being equal in effect
to the Laburnum, which flowers ten or twelve
weeks later. Perhaps this suggestion may load
others to adopt the plan. The present is a suit.-ible
time to consider the matter, and commence pro-
pagating for the purpose. As soon as the new
wood is firm enough cuttings should be inserted.
The plants should be kept to a single stem til! they
have reached the desired height. They will re-
quire some support. A quicker plan would be to
wait until September or October, and then to
remove from the base of the plants clean, straight
shoots of this season's growth, 3 or 4 feet long,
cutting out every bud except two or three terminal
ones, and inserting the shoots firmlv in the ground.
G. F. T.

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

AG.\PANTHUS GLOBOSUS.

This dwarf growing variety was introduced from
the Orange River Colony (see illustration in Gar-
dt'iias' Cliyonick, Sept. 23, 1905). The dense globu-
lar heads of flowers are individually about 1 inch in
diameter, and of good shape, and borne on long
stems well above the strap-shaped, arching leaves,
which are about a foot in length. The three
outer petals of the individual heads of blooi/i are
lilac-blue, shaded white, and bluntly pointed, the
inner ones being emarginate and much darker in
colour ; the centre vein of each petal is of a dark
shade of bluish lilac.

This useful decorative plant is easily increased
by divisions of the crowns, the divisions being
potted into suitable-sized, efficiently-crocked pots,
giving them a compost of three parts good sandy
loam and one of leaf-mould as a rooting medium.
Afford water to the roots and grow the plants in a
greenhouse in the ordinary way. Established
plants are very eflective if stood on either side of
steps leading into the greenhouse or conservatory,
or at certain intervals along the side of terrace
walks in connection with other plants producing
flowers of different and striking shades of colour.
The plant, like the older variety, is a gross feeder,
and should therefore be afforded diluted liquid
manure at the roots a few times a week during
active growth : surface-dressings of some approved
plant food will answer the same purpose. H. W .
Ward, Ray high.

The Week's Work.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. .\. Cook, Giirdener to Sir Edmund G. LouiiR,

Ban., Leonardslee, Sussex.
Fcrmanent Coiicring over Trees. — This should
now be all removed, or it will seriously interfere
with the development of the branches. The
foliage of the various trees should now be a
sufficient covering for the fruit. Many of the
Pear and Plum trees against walls will be.
ready to be stopped and tied in. Upon these,
operations being carried out effectively and early
will depend in a large measure the quality of
the fruit. If the trees have been carefully dis-
budded, the shoots or gro\vths will now require
to be pinched back to about four or five leaves,
and if those shoots near the summit of the wall
are unduly forward these should be operated on
first, allowing a few days to elapse before com-
pleting the whole of the tree. On very old
trees some vigorous young growths should be
allowed to take the place of the worst of the
old shoots.

Thinning the Fruits may be commenced,
especially upon large fruiting varieties. An ex-

5-2 G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

TMay 26. 1S06.

perienced eye can tell at a very early stage
■which fruits are in the best positions and should
■therefore be retained. The strength and age of
ihe trees should afford a good guide as to the
weight of crop they should be permitted to
ripen ; on no account should such a crop be
allowed as will seriously weaken the tree and
prevent it from maturing its buds needed for
the following year's crop.

Gooseberries should be thinned for use in
tarts or preserving, especially from bushes that
are expected to produce large fruits for dessert.
Green Gooseberries are also sought after
for bottling for winter use. This being so, one
can relieve the bushes as much as may appear
desirable. Gooseberries growing against walls
should be pinched back as soon as the growths
are long enough to admit of this being done.
Nail in the shoots required for extension, and
if any insect pest is present syringe the trees
with strong quassia water. If caterpillars are
seen after syringing the trees, dust the ground
below with strong lime and kainit, which
should stop the ravages of these pests.

Cherries have set pretty well, especially the
varieties Early Rivers (ripening in June), Elton
(ripening early in July), Knight's Early Black
(ripening in the third and fourth weeks in June),
White Bigarreau, May Duke, Frogmore, Bigar-
reau de Schrecken, Emperor Francis, Waterloo,
St. Margaret, Geant ds Hedelfingen, Black Tar.
tarian, and Bigarreau Napoleon. These are grown
as cordons against a wall, and also as pyramids.
Keep a sharp look-out for insect pests. Protect
early varieties with nets as soon as they begin
-to colour, or the birds will find them out. The
netting must be placed some distance from the
branches so that the fruits cannot be plucked
by the birds. As soon as the fruits have passed
the " stoning " stage, afford the trees a good
watering with liquid manure.

Fig Trees. — Pinch out the points when the
branches have made a good growth. Disbud
them early, taking away all growths that are not
necessary to be retained. If growths are wanted
at the base of the wall, lay one or two shoots
in a horizontal position, and these will produce
new growths. Figs are showing uncommonly
well this season.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire,

Early Peaches and Nectarines. — Where such
varieties as Hales' Early, W"aterloo, and Alex-
ander Peaches were started at the beginning of
January, the fruits should now be approaching
the ripening stage. .Several fruits of the last-
named variety here are now ripe (May 15).
This early Peach is most useful to any gar-
dener who has to provide variety in dessert.
Cardinal and Early Rivers Nectarines follow
very soon afterwards. If they can be gathered
a few days before sending them to the table,
and placed in shallow boxes of cotton wadding
■on a shelf in a dry, warm atmosphere, and covered
with tissue paper to shield them from the sun's
rays, the flavour will be much enhanced. Con-
tinue to keep the atmospheric temperature at
60° to 65° at night, and allow it to rise to 70°
to 75° on dull days until the fruit has finished
swelling. As soon as a tree has been denuded
of its fruit it should be syringed well with a
weak solution of Gishurst Compound in order
to dislodge any insects there may be on the
young growths. Cut out all weakly shoots at
■the same time, and any that will not be required
another year, so that the remaining fruit-bear-
ing branches may be the better exposed to the
iinfiuence of sun, air, and light.

Successional Houses. — On trees that will ripen
their fruits in succession to the early ones, the
fruits should now be finally thinned out, and
all side growths should be stopped as soon as
■they appear. Cut out any superfluous shoots. If
the borders have not been mulched, let this be
done without delay. Peat-moss litter, which
has been used in the stables, is an excellent
material, for it will retain the moisture in the
borders, and give off ammonia into the atmos-
phere, which is beneficial to the foliage of all
fruit trees. When the fruit has passed the
stoning stage, let the trees be given every
possible assistance to aid in developing the fruits
to their fullest size and highest colour. Syringe
■the trees early in the morning and in the after-
•noon with the determination to keep down red

spider. The borders will require water fre-
quently, but this should be applied with discre-
tion, and as the formation of the border may
render it desirable. Afford good soakings to
trees that are carrying heavy crops of truit.
Weak liquid manure from the farmyard is an
ideal stimulant for all kinds of fruit trees, and
Peruvian guano is effective when applied as a
change to this. With a view to obtain good
colour in the fruits, these should be exposed
to the sun by placing smooth pieces of laths be-
neath them, with the ends resting on the trel-
lis. It should be borne in mind that large-
sized, richly flavoured fruits can only be ob-
tained by severely thinning them out.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Vegetable Marro'jos. — The planting! of these for
supplying the main crop out of doors may now
be undertaken without fear of them suffering
loss through frost, especially if slight protection
be afforded the plants for a few nights until
they become established. There is no need to
make hotbeds for this crop, which only tend to
produce rank and unfruitful growth. Select an
exposed position and prepare stations at every
6 feet by making an ofjening a foot deep and
sufficiently wide to hold two barrowfuls of a
compost of well-rotted manure and good soil in
equal parts. Make this moderately firm and
plant three plants on each station. When the
young leading growths have become 18 inches
in length, pinch out the leader in order to induce
fruitfulness. The roots will need much water.
The plants should be damped overhead during
dry weather.

Early Cauliflower. — Plants in pots that are
now " turning in," and those in frames in the
same condition, should be liberally assisted
with liquid manure to increase the size of the
''heads." Protect the "curds" and thus main-
tain their purity by bending the leaves over them.
The earliest batch outside should be slightly
earthed-up after applying a good watering.

Celery. — Plant out this crop from frames, as
previously recommended, before the plants be-
come too large and spoiled owing to want of
more space. Select a dull, showery day for
doing the work. Young plants in frames grow
so rapidly that if they are kept there a day or
two too long it may make all the difference
between a good crop and a bad one. A good
soaking of water should be given to settle the
plants in their new quarters as soon as they
have been planted, and watering will be neces-
sary throughout the summer during dry weather.
Plants from the latest sowing should be pricked
off in frames whilst still quite small.

Protecting Material. — By the last week in the
present month all rough framework, nets, or
other protecting material against frost may be
removed with some degree of confidence, as there
will then be little likelihood of much damage
being occasioned to the most tender crops, un-
less in very late districts.

Planting out. — As fast as young plants of
Brassicas become fit, let them be planted out.
Broccolis and Brussels Sprouts should be
planted in very firm soil. Prick off seedlings
as soon as they can be handled. Protection in
some gardens is very necessary against jackdaws
and wood pigeons, for these birds soon make
short work of the plants, and of young Peas just
appearing through the ground, when they are in
quest of food for their young.

Box Edgings. — Trim up any edgings that are
growing too straggly, the young growth made
afterwards will not be likely to suffer from
the effects of frost. Weed-killer should be used
on the paths with much caution where the roots
of fruit trees or live edgings are near. It is far
better to run no risk, but to keep the weed-killer
at least 2 feet from the box.

Staking Peas and Beans. — This is a big item
in large gardens, and it is a question whether
wire netting of a large mesh, run in double
lines, is not as effective and more profitable than
sticks. I have not tried the wire, but hope to
do so shortly. Stacking should b; done early
and neatly after drawing a little soil to the
plants. Sticks at least S feet in height should
be afforded, and rods should be tied in a hori-
zontal position to each stick near the top in
order to strengthen the work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

V'Y W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevok Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.
Dendrobium Phalcenopsis. — After a long de-
cided rest, the plants of this exceedingly useful
species are now growing freely, and before new
roots push out trom the base of the new
growths, they should, if necessary, be re-potted,
or, if not in need of re-potting, the old material
should be picked out down to the drainage and
fresh compost afforded. This species will
thrive best in ordinary flower pots, and it is
important that these should be small in pro-
portion to the size of the plants. Copper wire
handles of suitable lengths are attached to the
pots so that they may be suspended from the
roof, and in a position where the plants will be
exposed to much light, which is an important
matter towards successful cultivation. Plenty
of well-dried fern-rhizome' may be used for
ensuring drainage, and a compost of coarse
fibrous peat, sphagnum-moss, with broken
crocks intermixed, should be packed firmly
around the roots, as they delight to push their
way among the hard, porous material. After
plants have been disturbed at the roots, either
by re-potting or re-surfacing, let them be placed
in the hottest house. Until new roots be-
come numerous only a small quantity of water
will be necessary, but afterwards and until the
flowers open it may be afforded copiously. In
addition to the stippling on the glass as advised
in a former Calendar, these plants require
a very thin shading, and this only during the
hottest part of the day. When this is removei^
early in the afternoon, the house should bv?
closed and well damped down, and the plants
lightly sprayed overhead with tepid rain water.
D. bigibbum, D. Statterianum, D. superbiens,
D. taurinum, D. stratiotes, D. secundum, and
D. Parishii all require similar treatment.

Catasetums, Cycnoches, and Mormodes also
do well if suspended alongside the above named
Dendrobriums, but tney should not be
sprayed overhead, as the young growths are
easily rotted by water lodging in them. Many
of these Catasetums, etc., are now growing
vigorously, and well-rooted plants will require
abundance of water at the roots ; but more care
will be necessar)- as regards those plants that
are not yet well established, or disease may
result. Those Catasetums which produce their
flower spikes in conjunction with the young
growths will require extra supplies of water to
prevent the back pseudo-bulbs from excessive
shrivelling.

Calogynes. — In the warmest house plants of
Coelogyne pandurata and C. asperata (Lowii)
are now developing their flower spikes from
the centre of the young growths, and they
should be kept well supplied with water at the
root until the growths are matured. The
rambling habit of C. Meyeriana makes a cer-
tain amount of training necessary to keep it
within bounds. It requires a damp, shady
position, and plenty of overhead syringing. C.
Dayana, C. Massangeana, and C. tomentosa
grow very well suspended from the roof of the
Cattleya house. Those varieties from higher
elevations as C. barbata, C. elata, C. conferta,
C. cristata, C. ocellata, C. speciosa, C. Law-
renceana, C. fuliginosa, C. flaccida, etc., thrive
best in a house in which the atmosphere is a
few degrees warmer than that of the cool
Odontoglossum house. These Coelogynes re-
quire plenty of light but not direct sunshine,
and when growing freely abundance of water is
necessary. On warm, sunny days the plants
should be lightly sprayed overhe'ad. The best
time to re-pot any of these species is when
they are starting into new growth, and the
ordinary compost of well-drained peat, loam,
and sphagnum-moss should be used.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, AUerton, Liverpool.
Hybrid Streptoearpus. — These beautiful stove
perennial plants may be had in flower for the
greater part of the year ; indeed, they almost sur-
pass the Gloxinia in this respect. Their flowers
possess delicacy of colouring and elegance of form,
and great variety can now be obtained from a
single packet of seed. They may be propagated
by division of the plants, but as they are so easily
raised from seed, and the constitution of the plants
thus raised is so much stronger, this method of
increasing the stock is preferable. The seed should

I.iAY 26, 1C06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

327

be sown thinly in sandy soil, on a level surface,
and be covered very sliglitly with soil. When
the seedlings are large enough, they should be
transplanted into pans or shallow boxes, and from
thence later into ij^-inch pots, in which they will
produce some flowers in the autumn. The follow-
ing season, however, they will be more productive of
flowers, and if the plants be further potted into
6-inch pots they will then form admirable subjects
for decorative work in the residence or for grouping
in the conservatory and corridor, which structures
will suit their requirements during the summer
months. Tlie compost used at Cleveley for the final
potting consists of fibrous loam, leaf mould, and
sand, with a 5-inch potfuU of dried fowl manure —
which I consider the best of all fertilisers for tliese
beautiful plants — added to each bushel of the com-
post. Some leaves of these plants measured to-
day were 18 inches in length, while from 80 to 100
iiowers were counted on a single plant.

Hani-wooded plants for next season'sforcing. — Plants
of Azalea mollis, A. occidentalis. Rhododendrons,
Lilac, &c., growing in the reserve ground and
intended for forcing during the coming winter,
should have all their flowers removed so asjto
enable the plants to make strong growth and to
set their flower buds freely. By this timely at-
tention the constitution of the plants will be
further built up and the quality of the flowers
much improved thereby, while forcing is rendered
much easier when the plants possess a good con-
stitution. Plants of Lilacs which have been recently
forced should be pruned to three or four eyes in
the hard wood, and be planted in the reserve
ground, after which they should not be lifted for
forcing until the autumn of 1907. It is essential
to liave a duplicate batch of tliese plants so that
they can be lifted and forced every alternate season.

Richardias (Calla) .-Ethiopica . — The present is the
best time for planting these outside and . if necessary
for dividing those plants which have been flower
ing indoors for the past four or five months. In
planting, a shallow trench should be made as for
Celery, placing in the bottom of the row a mixture
of loam and well decayed manure. The rows
should be formed '2 feet apart, allowing 18 inches
between the plants in the rows. Incorporate the
soil well among the roots, and when the planting
is finished place a stake to each plant. The leaves
will gradually ripen and die down ; at the same
time young roots will push into the new soil, and
fresh crowns will be formed. Abundant supplies
of water should be given Richardias during the
summer months. Plants intended for early flower-
ing should be ripened in pots plunged in ashes in
full sunshine.

Pits and Frames. — As soon as bedding plants, &c.,
are removed the glass should be well washed, and
the structures made ready to receive Begonias,
Primulas, Cinerarias, &c.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Karl of Plymouth,
St. Fagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Garden Vases (see fig. 131 and supplementary
illustration). — At the present time of year
tl» appropriate mode of filling garden-vases for
summer display is exercising the minds of
those concerned with them, and it is tin com-
paratively few gardens thai vases are not in evi.
dente in some form or another. To furnish
them effectively and in such a manner as to re-
main bright throughout the summer months,
while at thie same time ensuring harmony with
the surroundings demands much thought and
cousidesation on the part of the person respon-
sibl(» Nothing can be conceived more detracting
or disappointing than the appearance of a formal
garden where a haphazard style of vase decora-
tion is practised. Happily, unlike other phases
of formal gardening, once a sj'stem of planting
has been adopted, which in form and colour is
unmistakably in harmony with the architectural
designs of the environment, repetition year after
3^ar in the filling of vases is not only permissi-
ble but desirable. Where vases are employed to-
gether in the decoration of a particular part of
the garden tbey, to' a certain extent, should be
all filled in the same way, as in such
instances they are more often than otherwise
used to emphasize a particular feature con-
tinually repeated in the architectural design, in
which case vases composed of many different
colours and forms would be incongruous. For
example, in a series of terraces, where perhaps
fifty vases are used, it would be absurd to at-
tempt to fill every vase differently to its fellow.

and it would be much more effective to fill them
in the same way, or in two colours and alternate
them. Of course, for p.articular positions on
the terrace something distinct to the other vases
might be used, but exactly in what form and
colour must be determined by judicious atten-
tion to proportion and harmony. In the choice
of plants for garden-vases much therefore de-
pends on the existing environment and the
style of architecture they are intended to adorn.
Also the conditions of warmth and shelter that
prevail in the positions they occup)' must
be considered. For ordinary vases the Ivy-
leav-ed Pelargonium " Souvenir de Charles
Turner "has much to commend it. The plants
should be well-grown m 5 or 6-inch pots pre-
viously to being placed in the vases, and they
should be planted thickly, so that they will
make an effective show at once. The best
plan in dealing! with them is to tie the plants
to neat, thin stakes to give height and sym-
metry to the vase, while some of the growths
may be' allowed to assume a pendulous habit.
The colour of the flower is striking fro.m a dis-
tance, and is therefore well adapted tor vase

swarms. Added to this, the Syrian bees
cap the honey so poorly that it will not travel
at all well. The Camiolans are easy to handle,
but they swarm quite as much as the Syrians.
The Carniolans have been termed the " Ladies'
bees," because of their good temper, and the
ease with which they may be managed. On the
whole, it will be well to retain the Britishers,
selecting those that are known to produce good
workers. Many believe in introducing a first-
year queen every year. This, I fear, is a mis-
take, as the first-year queen is not in her prime.
The second year appears to be her best season.
Foundation for Swarms. — This question is
often given but little consideration. Some, ill
their anxiety to secure a good yield, give the
bees drawn-out comb, which generally defeats,
the end in view. Before the queen will lay her
eggs in the old comb, the bees have to cleaa
out the cells. But honey is being carried in,,
so the bees commence storing at once, with the
result that they continue to do so even after
supers have been added, and this, too, to the ex-
clusion of brood, so that the colony dwindles and
no surplus is secured. When a swirm issues, they

Fig. 131 VENETI.\N V.\SE IN THE GARDENS AT DOWNSIDE, LEATHEKHEAD, SURREY.

See " The Flower Garden " and p. 328.

work. The Paris Daisy (Chrysanthemum fru-
tescens) is a popular vase plant, and its pro-
fusion of white flowers is very effective. The
semi-double' variety Queen Alexandra being ji
less vigorous growth than the type, is particu-
larly suitable for planting in smaller vases.
Large vases might be filled with Fuchsias,
whose pendent habit lends itself to this kind of
decoration, while in combination Ivy-leafed
Pelargoniums of the same shadre of colouring
could be used.

THE APIARY.

Bv Chloris.
Rc-quecning. — Many will be seriously thinking
of re-queening, and considering what sort of a
queen will suit them best. If advertisements
are to be relied on, the British bees will be dis-
carded and foreigners introduced. Before tak-
ing such a step, however, it will be well to
ascertain the qualities of those to be introduced.
The Cyprians are noted for bad temper and
a,.propensity for stinging, .and the Syrian bees
for their breeding powers, but what value
will prolificness be to us if they con-
tinue to swarm? We desire honey, not

are ready to commence comb-building, because-
they have consumed a large quantity of honey
to construct their future house. Then, why not-
utilise this store by supplying the bees with
starters, and the bees will build nice, straight-
combs of worker cells. By giving full sheets-
of fo-andation to a natural swarm, much valu-
able wax is lost and little time is gained. It is
place on a rack, sections of drawn-out comb,.
\ATien a swaim has been hived up on frames
fitted with starters, and if the honey flow be
good, to say nothing of favourable weather, thea
place on a rack sections of drawn-out comb,
and the bees, having nowhere else to store, are
forced above ; then having acquired the habit
of going there they continue to do so, and the
brood chamber is constructed and filled witfi
brood.

Water. — At this period of the year breeding
is encouraged by a good supply of water. If
stones are placed in jars filled with water, the
bees will soon discover it and will be seen there
frequently. Only the other day I was riding
along a rutty road near an apiary, and was-
surprised at the number of bees on the wet
mud taking their fill of water.

?28

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May Jfj, l&OG.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41. Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

Abetters for Publication, as well as spca'mem am} plants
for naming, should be adihrssed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Comtminicatiofis should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.~T/ie Editor does 7iot

- undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or

to return unused cominunications or illustrations, unless by

•special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself

responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations.- The Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ &c., but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

t^ewspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
tareful to Jiiark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

<Local J^ews.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters it'hich it is desirable
to bung under the notiie of hottiiulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE EN3UING WEEK.

I Ann. meeting (7 p.m.) and Dinner
MONDAY, May 28 ] (7.30 p.m.) of the Kew Guild at

[ Holborn Restaurant, London.

/Roy. Hort. Soc. Show in the

Temple Gardens, Thames Em-

-T-iTi7cr,ii\- II, an bankment (3 days).

TL ESDA\ , May 29 - y^^^^ ^j^^ Dinner at 6.30.

Winter Flowering Carnation Soc.

I meeting and Dinner.

I British Gardeners' Assoc, annual

■WEDNESDAY, May 30 •, meeting at Essex Hall, Essex

[ St., Strand, at 6.30 p.m.

[ Bath and West and Southern
THURSDAY, May 31 { Counties'Soc. Show at Swindon
i days).

(Bath

May 31 { Coi

I (5 c

Average Temperatui^e for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 57"8°
Actual TEMPERATUiiEs: —

London.— H'£rfnes(i(ij', May 23 (6 p.m.): Max. 71° ; Min.
49".
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, May 24
(10 A.M.): Bar., 29.3; Temp., G6' ; Weal'her—
Dull.
PROVtNCES. — IVedtiesctay, May 23 (6 p.m.) : Max. 56'
South-west Ireland ; Min. 40° East Scotland.

SALES.

MONDAY'—

Special Sale of Orchids in flower, at 07 & 68, Cheapside,

E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 2.30.
TUESDAY—

Duplicate Orchids from the " Oakwood " collection, at

67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 2.30.

WEDNESDAY—

Duplicate Orchids from the " Westfield" collection, at
67 ii 08, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 2.30.

THURSDAY—

Duplicate and other rare Orchids, 800 Cypripedium Fair-
rieanum, 3,000 Odontoglossum Crispuni, &c., at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 1.

FRIDAY—

Palms, Plants, Ferns, Geraniums, Begonias, Gladiolus,
&c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris,
aH2.

There are many indications that
Forestry, the importance of lajing down
correct principles as a guide to
practice is at length becoming recognised in
cultural matters generally. It is also becom-
ing obvious that increased attention is being
paid to the desirability — we may almost say
the necessity — not only of regulating existing
forests in this country, but of very largely
increasing the area devoted to the production
of timber, and thus not only of augmenting
revenue and procuring supplies which we now
have to procure from abroad, but of furnishing
profitable and health-gi\ing labour to the
working classes. In this worlc Dr. Schlich has
been an able and earnest pioneer. Messrs.
Bradbury, Agnew & Co. have now issued the
■first volume of the third edition of Dr. Schlich's
Manual of Forestry. The fact that it has
reached a third edition is itself an evidence
Qot only of its authoritative character, but also
bears witness to the increased interest which
the public — or that portion of it interested in

forestry — takes in the subject. On all accounts
this is very satisfactory. In preparing this
edition the author has rearranged and added
to his materials. The first volume is devoted
to forest policy in the British Empire, the
second, which will appear later on, to syhi-
culture, the third to forest management,
the fourth to forest protection, the fifth
to forest utilisation, the last two volumes
being contributed by Mr. W. E. Fisher. In
the present volume we have sections deal-
ing with the utility of forests, direct and
indirect, the relation of the State to
Forestry, and the reasons for and against the
maintenance of State forests in contrast to
those managed by individuals or communes.
Part III. includes a general survey of forestry
in the British Empire, beginning with India
and passing on to Borneo, Australia, the various
African possessions, Canada and the West
Indies. Chapter V. is devoted entirely to
forestry in the United Kingdom, and is the
one with which home readers will be most
concerned. Up to the present time, howevei%
India alone has satisfactorily grappled with
the forest question, but other parts of the
Empire are following suit. Canada and Aus-
tralia are much behindhand, though it is to
them that we shall mainly have to look in
future for the supplies of timber. Imports at
present from various sources amount in value
annually to 20 millions — some large portion of
which might be kept at home, with correspond-
ingly increased employment for the workers.
The preservation of the State forests in India
has, says the author, " been placed on a safe
basis for the everlasting benefit of the people
of that countr)' and of the Indian Exchequer."
Here we may interpolate the statement that,
recognising the great importance of the matter
to the South African colonies, a school of
forestry has been established, including two
years' practical work at Tokai, near Cape
Town, with lectures and other instructions by
Mr. Hutchins, of the Forest Department, and
the professors of the South African College.
Extra tropical forestry will be taught as dis-
tinguished from the forestry of temperate
regions on the one hand, and that of tropical
countries on the other.

An "expert forester" must be a man of
many attainments. Here is an enumeration
of the subjects he is expected to be conversant
with: Pure and applied mathematics, sur-
veying, elements of general law, political
economy, physics, including meteorolog}-,
chemistry, inorganic and organic, including a
knowledge of soils, mineralogy and geology,
zoolog)', especiall}' entomology, and lastly, but
certainly not least in importance, botany,
including a knowledge of the life-history of
Fungi. The author suggests incidentally that
the City companies or other corporations should
purchase suitable tracts of mountain or barren
land in various counties where forest-work
could be given to the unemployed during the
winter. If afforestation were undertaken on a
large scale, there is no reason, says Dr.
Schlich, why five or six millions of acres
should not gradually be brought under
wood, thus securing the production of the
bulk of the ordinary timber required by
the country. Ever}- acre afforested would
require an expenditure on labour of, say, ;^"3
for planting. After the forests have been
established every acre would require about
five days' labour. a year, or a total of 30 million
days for the work in the forests. To this has
to be added the large business of transport
and working up the timber, as well as the
various industries wliich would spring up in

connection with it. On the whole, it is esti-
mated that not less than a population of two
and a half millions of people would find addi-
tional work in the country, counting five
members for each family. Moreover, most of
the foi'est work could be done in the winter,
when other employment is scarce. The present
volume is illustrated with numerous photo-
gravures, and is provided with an index.

Our SuppLEiviENTARY Illustrations.—

lor our own parts we think well-grown plants
the best decorations of a garden, and if, in addi-
tion, the plants have some interest apart from
mere beauty, colour, or fragrance, all the better.
But there are many who think that statuary,
finely-designed vases, and architectural adorn-
ments add greatly to the beauty of a garden.
\Vhen that garden is of the formal type, and es-
pecially when it is in juxtaposition to the man-
sion or other architectural features, we should ol
course agree. There are others, again, to whom
the topiary art has attractions, who admire the
quaint or grotesque as manifested in clipped
shrubs. To us a hedge is a hedge, and should
not be made a wall. But here, again, tastes
differ, and happily for us there is room and
opportunity tor all and every style of gardening.
Our supplementary illustration this week shows
a beautifully proportioned Greek vase in the
gardens at Dogmersfield Park, and a good ex-
ample of topiary work at Brockenhurst, Hants,
cool in summer, but gloomy in other seasons.
At Versailles, where this style of gardening is
adopted on a very large scale, a depressing
effect is produced, even in midsummer. The
note on p. 324, of a book on Italian gardens,
shows what was done in these directions when
art rather than gardening reigned supreme in
gardens, see also p. 330. It is a matter of taste,
no doubt, but we do not think that gardeners
are likely to be much impressed with the
mouldering, slime-becovered decorations which
characterised so many Italian gardens a few
years ago. Kven m sunny Italy, the fountains
of the finest design suffer from neglect and the
effects of climate. The bowl or font figured
on p. 327 is staled to be of Venetian origin,
and was photographed by Mr. Mason Good in
the gardens at Downside, I.eatherhead. In an
article on the same page, Mr. I'ExriGREW gives
some excellent practical hints as to the filUng of
vases in terrace gardens and similar situations.

The Temple Show. — Our readers may
be reminded that the Royal Horticultural
Society's nineteenth annual show in the
Gardens of the Inner Temple, Thames Embank-
ment London, will be opened on Tuesday next,
and will remain open until Thursday night.
Lieut. Godfrey's Military Band will perform
each day. Visitors to this show from the pro-
vinces, the Colonies, and abroad will have the
opportunity of attending other functions, which
have been arranged to take place during the
early part of next week. Thus the Kew Guild will
hold its annual meeting, and subsequently dine at
the Holborn l^estaurant on Monday evening ; the
Horticultural Club and the new Winter Flower,
mg Carnation Society will provide dinners at the
Hotel Windsor and at Anderton's Hotel respec-
tively on Tuesday ! and the British Gardeners'
Association will hold its annual meeting in the
Essex Hall, Strand, on Wednesday evening. In
addition to these functions there will also be
important sales of Orchids at Messrs. Prothe-
roe & Morris' rooms on the first four days in
the week. We hope that the weather will be
bright, and warmer than it is at the moment of
writing.

Horticultural Club. — For the benefit of
those attending the Temple Show, there will be a
house-dinner at 6.30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 2U,
at the Windsor Hotel, Victoria Street. There
will be no lecture after the dinner on this occasion.

May 20, 1900.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

329

Winter Flowering Carnation Society.—

We are informed that the inaugural meeting of
this society -will be held on Tuesday, •29th inst.
{first day of the Temple Show), at 8 p.m., pre-
ceded by a dinner at 7 p.m. in Anderton's Hotel,
Fleet Street. Tickets, 3s. 6d. each, may be
obtained from members of the committee, or from
the Hon. Sec, Mr. Hayward Mathias, Thames
Ditton, Surrey. All interested in winter-flowering
Carnations, whether already members of the
society or not, are invited to be present.

British Gardeners' Association. — The

annual general meeting of this association will
be held at the Essex Hall, Essex Street, Strand
{close to the Temple Gardens), on Wednesday,
May 30 (second day of the Temple Show), at
6.30 p.m. Mr. W. H. Divers, head gardener to
His Grace the Duke of Rutland, will preside.
The association has made steady progress during
the past year, and there are now over 900 qualified
gardeners on the roll of membership. Gardeners
wishing to join the association are invited to attend
the meeting. Members should make every effort
to be present, as the general rules of the association,
which have been drawn up and published by the
executive council, will be submitted at this meet-
ing for their approval, and subjects of the greatest
importance will be discussed.

National Amateur Gardeners Associa-
tion.— .A lecture on "Carnations" will be de-
livered by Mr. A. J. Rovvbekry at Winchester
House, Old Broad Street, E.C., on June 5, at
7 p.m.

The Reading and District Gardeners-
Mutual Improvement Society. — The annual
report of this very successful society is on our
table, and from this we gather that the member-
ship at the time of going to press numbered 289.
The pamphlet is full of records of useful work
done, and there is every promise of such work
being continued in the future. Leonard Sutton,
Esq., is President, Mr. C. Foster. Chairman.
Mr. E. D. DoRE. Librarian, and Mr. H. G. Cox,
Secretary.

Easter Monday at Kew. — Our good friend
the Revue Hoiticolc chronicles the fact that more than
90,000 persons visited the Royal Gardens at Kew,
on Easter Monday, in spite of an entrance fee of
1 f. 25 c. per head ! We had imagined that all the
liorticultural world knew that Kew is open every
day (except Christmas Day, when it is closed)
without any payment at all.

George Herman Ellwanger. — American
papers record the death of this gentleman on
April 23, at Rochester. N.Y. He w'as a man of
axtensive and varied literary accomplishments, says
the Florists' Exchange, and was a director and
secretary of the firm of Ellwanger & Barry', of
which his father, George Ellwanger, is president.
G. H. Ellwanger edited his brother's well-known
book on " The Rose," and was himself the author
of the " Garden Story " and numerous other
publications, and combined practical knowledge
with a charming literary style.

Report of the Royal Agricultural
SOCIETY'S Botanist. — We have received the
annual report for 19U5 of the Consulting Botanist
{Mr. William Carruthers. F.R.S.). of the
Royal Agricultural Society. Useful work was
done in seed testing, in naming plants, and in
determining poisonous species. Common Chick-
weed proved fatal to lambs, not because in itself
injurious, but because it is unwholesome when
taken in excess. Solanum Dulcamara, Colchicum
autumnale, Conium maculatum, Mercurialis
perennis and a few other plants were also reported
to have proved poisonous to cattle in various
localities. Diseases of the Potato were investi-
gated, and Mr. Hans Th. Gussow contributes an
illustrated paper on Potato scab (Rhizoctonia),

Customs Definitions. — A judical decision
has, we learn, been given in the United States to the
effect that " Vetch seed is grass seed," and that
Canary seed (a true grass) is not grass-seed. No
wonder fiscal problems are difficult of solution.
In the above instances it is as if black were de-
clared to be white and white solemnly pronounced
to be black. How convenient are popular names;
how unscientific fiscal regulations !

Dorking and Leatherhead. — The last
volume of the llomcUmd Handbooks, issued from
Association House, Bride Lane. Fleet Street,
deals with Dorking and Leatherhead and their
surroundings. Mr. Joseph Morris is responsible
for the letterpress, and there are many illustra-
tions. The book deals in an appreciative spirit
with a beautiful part of Surrey, and special
interest is this year claimed for the district, as it is
the bi-centenary of the death of John Evelyn, a
native of Wotton. In the grounds of Wotton
House are still many fine trees originally planted,
or at least selected, by the author of the Sylva.
The whole neighbourhood is full of interest, and
we can only hope that it may be long spared from
ruthless over-building and overcrowding. We
fear that the interesting Box trees, which gave their
name to Box Hill, are likely to get fewer and
scantier every year. Mr. Morris mentions them,
and some of the traditions associated with them.
The truth, we believe, is that the trees are the
remains of a Box forest, probably dating from
very remote times, and are aboriginal natives that
have disappeared from most parts of the country,
but have, in some strange way, been preserved
here. Orchid lovers, too. are specially interested
in the neighbourhood, for at Burford is the well-
known collection of the indefatigable President of
the Royal Horticultural Society.

The Calamity in California (April 18). —
A writer in the Florists' Exchange for May 6, details
his experiences. The Easter business among
florists had been the most successful ever experi-
enced. The writer's home in San Francisco
was demolished, but he himself escaped with a
few bruises, 95 cents, and a blue pencil. Fully
two-thirds of the city were destroyed by the earth-
quake and subsequent fire, and all the establish-
ments of the florists and plantsmen within the
desolated area, about 150 in number, were
utterly destroyed. Some few in the western part
of the city were, relatively speaking, uninjured.
The population of San Francisco has decreased,
says another report, from 400,000 to about 150,000.
Practically every building in the Santa Clara
Valley is destroyed. Luther Burbank reports
that the whole business part of the town of Santa
Rosa is a complete wreck. Burbank's establish-
ment itself suffered but little injury. " Every-
body," he continues, "is cheerful, hopeful, busy
as bees when a hive is upset, building again."
The town of San Jose is reported as almost
completely demolished. A very gruesome result
of the catastrophe as it affects the commercial
florists and undertakers is mentioned in the Wcehly
Florists' Review. Owing to the disorganisation
and destruction of property most of the under-
takers' premises were destroyed, and the florists,
being in the same predicament, were unable to sup-
ply the funeral wreaths, which are used even more
lavishly in the United States than they are here.
"The all-absorbing questions with the wholesale
growers at present are ; How far shall I keep up
the cultivation of my plant ? Will it pay me to
hire the necessary help to keep it in operation ?
Shall I continue to carry a big lot of young stock
for fall replanting ? Would it not be cheaper to let
my Carnations and Roses die and close up the
houses ? Shall I cancel my fall order for bulbs ?
I wonder how long it will be before I can sell
anything ? In the meanwhile hundreds of thousands
of the finest stock ever grown are daily consigned
to the rubbish heap."

Volcanic Dust. — Many members of the Inter-
national Congress of Chemistry visited the sad
scenes in the neighbourhood of Vesuvius. One
member who had collected the volcanic dust,
soon after the eruption, at Addlestone, in the
Thames Valley, and again on.a roof at Turin, was
enabled to satisfy himself of the identity of these
specimens with the Naples dust.

Aucuba. — Dr. Mayr tells us that this word
should properly be written Aokiba — signifying in
Japanese bluish-green leaf. We do not think Dr.
Mayr's proposal to alter established usage is
likely to be adopted.

Germination of Seeds. — A paper by Mr.
C. H. Neumann on the testing of the germinating
power of Sugar-Beet seeds shows the amount of
specialisation which has taken place. The author
found that the best medium for ensuring the
regular germination of the seeds was a damp
mixture of sand and sawdust, the temperature
being carefully regulated.

Forestry at Oxford. — We understand from
Nature that Prof. William Schlich, F.R.S., St.
John's College, Oxford, has been constituted by
H. M. Secretary of Slate for India. Professor of
Forestry, so long as he shall be continued in his
position and be resident within the University.

"School and Garden." — This booklet, by
Mr. Walter P. Wright, is described as being a
gardening story and containing practical hints
on school gardening. Plenty of useful notions
are inculcated in the first or story part of the
book, and young readers too much in haste to
learn from these may be encouraged to study
the second or practical section that follows.
The information given may be depended upon,
and is put in plain tabular form and many
practical illustrations are added. We concur in
the writer's hope that schoolmasters will find
the book helpful, and also trust that school
children will think it interesting. The second
portion should appeal to adult as well as tc
youthful gardeners in search of help.

The Surveyors' Institution. — An after-
noon reception will be held in the gardens of
the Ro3-al Botanic Society, Regent's Park, on
Tuesday, June 19, from 4 to 7 p.m. .Annual
meeting : The annual general meeting of the
institution, to receive the report of the council
and the announcement of the result of the election
of officers for the ensuing year, will be held in the
lecture hall, on Monday, May 28, at 3 o'clock.
The prizes awarded to successful candidates, in
connection with the recent preliminary and pro-
fessional examinations, will be presented by the
president at the annual general meeting.

Ruined by Motor Dust. — At a meeting of
the Cheshire County Council recently there was a
discussion on the motor dust nuisance. Dr.
Hodgson said that no county suffered more from
this cause than Cheshire. He knew a nursery
gardener whose business was ruined by dust.

Country in Town Exhibition. — The pro-
spectus and regulations for exhibitors in connec-
tion with the Country-in-Town Exhibition, which
will be held in the Whitechapel Art Gallery, from
July 5 to 19 are now ready, and may be had from
the honorary secretary. Mr. Wilfred Mark
Webb, at Toynbee Hall. 28, Commercial Street,
Whitechapel, E. Exhibits are invited that show-
in any way what has been done, or what can be
done to introduce some aspect of the country into
the street, gardens, or schools of our great urban
centres.

Selborne Society. — The annual conver-
sazione was held on Friday, May 25, after these
pages have gone to press, from 7.30 to H p.m., in
the building formerly occupied by the University
of London in Burlington Gardens, W. Lord
Avebury's presidential address was to be given
at 8 p.m.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 26, 190G.

Flowers in Season. — The Daffodils have
come and gone, and in their place we have the no
less beautiful Tulip. Among the prettiest and most
useful garden members of the genus are the May-
flowering Cottage and Darwin Tulips, whose bold,
sturdy habit and rich clear colours render them
admirable subjects for the flower border. From
Messrs. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Nurseries, Col-
chester, we have received a selection of varieties
in many handsome colours, chiefly of the Cottage
varieties, and although it is difficult to say which type
is the more beautiful of the two sections we give the
palm to these, by reason of their brighter colours
and less formal shape. Nothing is more graceful
among the genus than flowers of the Gesneriana
type, and this is seen to perfection in the beautiful
G. lutea, a flower of pure rich yellow colour, with
deep petals just broad enough to furnish graceful-
ness. Vitellina has paler yellow colouring, but is
none the less beautiful. Primrose Gem is another
good yellow, while pallida is even richer in
colour than its type. The crimson Isis, Scarlet
Emperor, Maid of Honour, whose pale recurving
petals are lightly tipped with rose, and Ingles-
combe Pink, are all admirable in their degrees of
colouring. More formal in build, and sturdier in
habit are the "Darwins, " but they are equally
beautiful in their degrees of colouring, and they
form grand subjects lor massing in beds. Henner,
La Tulipe Noire — the black Tulip so-called, but
really a very deep maroon-crimson, Madame
Krelage, pink, Painted Lady, and Farncombe
Saunders are a few of the gems of this section.
The May-flowering Tulips are all admirable sub-
jects as cut-flowers for vases and indoor decora-
tion generally. Those sent by Messrs. Wallace
have remained fresh and bright in water for more
than a week.

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, King's Road,
Chelsea, send " pips " from their strain of
herbaceous Calceolarias. From Mr. Lynxh,
V.M.H., came flowers of Erinacea pungens, an
interesting little Spanish shrub. The slender,
wiry branches are almost destitute of leaves and
divide into long spiny branchlets, loosely arranged
and widely spreading. The few leaves that are
present measure each about 1 cent, in length by
i mill, in breadth. In form they are linear oblong-
obtuse, tapering at the base and densely covered
with long, silky-white appressed hairs. The
flowers are in terminal clusters, five or six to a
cluster, each shortly stalked about 2 cent, long,
with an inflated, balloon-like caly.\ and a violet
coloured, pea-shaped corolla. The plant is
e\idently adapted for dry climates, its tran-
spiring surface being reduced to a minimum. It
is a native of Spain and is suitable for a sunny
position on the rockery, where its peculiar form
and pretty flowers render it very attractive. It
was figured under the name of Anthyllis erinacea
in Bot. Mag., 676, and in Loddigcs' Botanical
Calinet, 318.

Specimens of Fendlera rupicola have been re-
ceived from Sir E. Lodek's garden and from the
Cambridge Botanic Garden. It is a shrub with
wiry, more or less hairy branches and small oblong,
somewhat thick, obscurely three-nerved leaves.
The white flowers are formed at the ends of short
lateral growths of the year. Each is about 2 cent,
or J inch across with a reddish, cup-like caly.x
dividing above into four ovate-acute lobes shorter
than the four spreading, oblong, white petals.
There are eight perigynous stamens, each fila-
ment broad, white, and petaloid, dividing above
into three divisions, of which the central bears the
tv;o-lobed yellow anther, whilst the two lateral
ones are in the form of white, petaloid, trap-like
processes. The ovary is half superior, half inferior,
pyramidal, with four styles connate at the base,
twisted above, and four cavities with axile placenta
and numerous ovules. As the flower withers the
stamens and styles become twisted together into

a cord-like mass, leaving the white strap-like pro-
cesses free. The anthers appear to open before
the stigmas are mature, so that, although some
of the pollen is shed upon the stigma, it does not
necessarily follow that the flower is self-fertilised.
The cohesion of the stamens into a strand while
the filamental processes are free is perhaps an
arrangement to secure the transfer of the pollen
by some pollen-eating insects to the stigma of
another flower. These details will only interest
the botanist, but the plant-lover will appreciate the
profusion of the white flowers disposed along the
sides of the branches. The shrub is a native of
Texas and New Mexico. At Kew it is grown
against a wall.

Appropriate. — When H.R.H. the Princess
Victoria of Schleswig-Holstein attended the
concert of the Magpie Madrigal Society in the
Royal Horticultural Hall, on May 16, she was
presented with a bouquet consisting entirely of
black and white Pansies from the establishment
of Messrs. Dobbie & Co. The incident recalls

" The pansy freak'd with jet "
of Milton's " Lycidas." We do not look with
favour on the use of flowers as political em-
blems, but there are occasions when particular
flowers might be used without besmirching them
with the taint of party politics. The (Jueen
might carry the Rose, Shamrock, and Thistle,
and if we omit the Leek it is only because the
perfume might be objected to ! The wife of the
Archbishop might appropriately wear Canter-
bury Bells. The Duchess of Westminster
might bear a miniature sheaf of corn ; and oak
leaves or bays, forming part of the heraldic cog.
nisance of some families, might be used in a like
manner.

Publications Received.— r/ic Estate Magazine.
May. Edited by William Broomhall. Contents : Vis-
ct)unt Clifden's Cornwall Estates, Reclamation of
Wastes by the Unemployed, Gardening Notes. Agri-
cultural Notes. — TAe Garden City. May. The reports
for the month are quite satisfactory. — Agricultural
News (Barbados), April 28. We learn from this that
a scheme for insurance against the effects of hurri-
canes is in progress. This would be of great benefit
to agriculturists. — From the Imperial Department of
Agriculture for the West Indies: Seedling Canes and
Manurial Experiments at Barbados, Sir Daniel Morris
is responsible for the publication of the results of most
useful experiments lately carried on under his direc-
tion.— Agricultural Bulletin of the Straits and Federated
Malay States. February. Edited by H. N. Ridley,
Director of Gardens, and by J. B. Carruthers, Director
of Agriculture. Contents: East Indian Dragon's Blood
(certain species of Daemonorops). Rubber Notes, &c.
— Le Bambou. April 15. This is the third number of
a periodical pubUshed by M. Jean Houzeau de Lehaie,
Ermitage, Mons, Belgium, and, as we have before
stated, devoted wholly to articles and notes bearing
reference to Bamboos. — Journal de la Societe d'Horti-
culture du Japan. March 10. This contains a selec-
tion of articles in Japanese, written by native authori-
ties, and many illustrations which would be more
delightful if less tinged with Western and modern
"impressionist" ideas. There is a pretty plate of
Cypripedium Haynaldianum, but no mention upon it
as to the size of the plant.

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

NURSERYMEN'S VISIT TO HOLLAND.

Having lately read that a number of the principal
British nurserymen intend to pay a visit to Holland
in the course of the month of June, on which
occasion they wish to obtain some information
about the Dutch nurseries in the provinces of
Holland and Overysel, we venture to suggest to
these gentlemen that they should extend their tour
to Friesland and Groningen as well. By so doing
our colleagues will be able to convince them-
selves that not only the above-named provinces of
Holland deserve to be visited, but that the
northern districts of this country also possess
several considerable nurseries in no way inferior to

those in other parts of the kingdom, and worthy in'
more than one respect of the visit of business men
desirous of obtaining some notions of Dutch
nurseries, and of comparing the different methods
on the spot. By visiting Holland and Overysel
only they would get an imperfect idea of this
country. Should these friendly observations in-
duce them to change their itinerary we are quite
prepared to assist them with our business know-
ledge and experience. Firma Anne Bosgra, Oiiiiicis-
oj the Nuiscry, " Yphof," Bcrgum, Friesland.

A Cr<Y FROM ROME.

English travellers, art students, and lovers
of horticulture who have wandered into Italy as
far as Rome need no reminding of the many
objects of interest to be found there which are in
one sense of the word international property.
To tamper with the classic, artistic, or even
the antiquarian treasures in such a place is to
violate the feelings of many persons other than
Italians, and there seems to be at the present
moment some fear of an ancient and certainly
an interesting building and its adjoining gar-
dens being threatened by what may be con-
sidered the spirit of modern progress.

The Villa Borghese is an historic building of
no mean repute, and its surrounding gardens
are of world-wide renown. They are described
and illustrated in every book of importance on
the subject of Italian gardens, and were begun
close upon three centuries ago. Subsequently
they -Were extended by various eminent land-
scape gardeners, one of whom was an English-
manj Jacob Moore. The Villa Borghese must,
early in its history, have acquired widespread
renown, for we find that John Evelyn visited the
place in 1644, and in his diary makes allusion
to it under the date of November 17 of that year.
Evelyn tells us that this garden abounded with
all sorts of delicious fruit and exotic simples,
fountains of sundry inventions, groves and small
rivulets. He speaks of many other things, and
again in the following April ha appears to have
paid a second visit. Other travellers have not
been unmindful of the glories of these famous
Italian villas and their gardens, among them
Charles de Brosses, who visited Italy in 1739-
40 and wrote a kind of diary not wholly dis-
similar to that of Evelyn, and called " Letters
from Italy." Although current in several edi-
tions in French, these letters were only trans-
lated into English ten years ago by Lord Ronald
Gower, who says of the author that he was
witty, kind, bubbling over with good nature,
and with a face that may be compared with a
fine old crusted bottle of rare Burgundy of his
native land.

A few years ago the Villa Borghese was pur-
chased by the Municipality of Rome for a large
sum of money, and it is now the chief public
park of that city. The place has been renamed
the Villa Umberto I., and from some recent cor-
respondence in II Giornalc d'ltalia it seems
that those in high authority contemplate making
changes that will largely destroy the Villa and
its historic and interesting gardens.

The newly-founded International Agricultural
Institute, of which a good deal has been written
m the public Press, and which has been largely
approved of by influential persons in various
countries, is to be installed in the grounds of
the Villa Borghese. A portion of the grounds
will also be allotted for the site of a museum i.i
connection with the International Agricultural
Institute, and so the lovers of this famous villa
and its gardens are aghast at what they regard
as an act of vandalism. Not only Italians, but
foreigners resident in Rome, who have any re-
gard for the Villa Borghese at heart, consider
that unless this project can be averted the days
of one of the most famous villas and its gardens
are numbered.

Besides purchasing the Villa, the Municipalitv
of Rome has also acquired a considerable area
of land in the immediate vicinity, and hera

Way 26, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

"J i

it is felt that whatever is requiied bv the Gov-
ernment for the n-ew International Institute of
Agriculture might be secured without en-
croaching upon an historic building and gardens
of so great interest as the Villa Borghese un-
doubtedly is, and which ere long, unless the
contemplated steps are prevented, will exist
only as a memory in the minds of those who
a?3 now raising their voices against such an
act of destruction. Amatore Inglcsc.

EUPHORBIA WULFENII.

This handsome plant (see fig. 132) was first
■introduced into cultivation in the year 1837 by
means of seeds sent from Italy. It has not, how-
ever, become a common plant, although it is one
of the few hardy Euphorbias that when seen in
good condition attracts attention on account of its
striking appearance and early spring flowering
.qualities. Of sub-shrubby habit, the stems, which

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

A JOURNEY IN EASTERN TIBET.

(Continxted Jroyn page 204.)

June /j/h. — Orang-che consists of half a
dozen Tibetan houses, and is romantically situ-
ated in a narrow ravine, with dense forest
clothing the left bank, and scrub-oak and scat-
tered trees of Spruce on the right bank. Our inn
was chiefly remarkable for the hosts of " Nor-
folk Howards " it contained ; Keating's
powder was useless, but a log of wood
and a flat slab of stone proved effectual
weapons. We were glad to escape at daw^n,
and it cannot be said we felt in any sense re-
freshed after the night's "rest." Our road con-
tinued down the ravine, which widened out
into a narrow valley, and every bit of land
available w-as cultivated with Wheat and Barley

[Photo by E. J. WalHs.

Fig. 132. — EUPHORBH WULFENII, a DALMATIAN SPECIES OF SUB-SHRUBBY HABIT.
HEIGHT, 5 FEET OR MORE.

Teach a height of more than 5 feet, are thickly
clothed on the upper portion with whorls of strap-
shaped, bluish-green leaves. The colour of the
inflorescence may be described as a yellowish-
green, which retains its freshness for some two or
three months. It is a native of Dalmatia, and is
perfectly hardy, while it also retains its leaves
throughout the winter. This plant would make
an admirable subject for planting in the wilder
parts of the garden, in fern borders, or amongst
shrubs. It may not be so showy as a Rhodo-
dendron, but it possesses a bold and distinct
appearance, which is very effective. The other
Euphorbias in cultivation which belong to this
section are E. Characias, a native of Central
Europe, of similar habit, but with yellowish-green
flowers, having an almost black centre, and E.
Sibthorpii, a native of Greece, with flowers having
a brown centre. All are shrubby, and may be
increased by dividing the plants in autumn or early
spring. If. /.

The mountain-sides ate very steep, and clothed
with coniferous forests. Here and there clear-
ings have been made, leaving the cliffs bare,
except where they are covered with prickly
scrub-oak. Selaginella involvens and Boea
hygrometrica clothed the bare rocks alongside
the road. Verbascum Thapsus and Incarvil-
lea variabilis were common — sure indications
of a warm and dry climate. We passed
several houses and many ruins, and ultimately
crossed the torrent— now of considerable size —
by means of a good bridge of logs and brush-
wood. At the bridge I gathered a pretty
species of Lilac. Between Orang-che and this
bridge the commonest shrub was Rosa sericea,
a mass of the purest white. The Abies, with
loose bark, A. squamata (see Gardeners'
Chronicle xxix., p. 299), so common in the upper
limits of the forest, gave place to Abies Far-
gesii, a handsome tree with purple cones and
useless timber. The Picea of yesterday was still

with us, and a few Pines occurred. As we de-
scended the Pines increased in number.

Below the bridge the valley narrowed into a
ravine, but wherever it widened cultivation was
attempted. At 11 o'clock we reached Pa-ko-la,
halfway to Hokeou, and lunched there.

The road thus far had been very good.
Two of the commonest trees alongside the road
were Populus euphratica and Acer laetum var.
tricaudatum. Near Pa-ko-la, Populus tremula
was common. In a field I noted Spiraea
Aruncus, and by the wayside I gathered Cypri-
pedium himalaicum, Androsace sp., Cynan-
chum sp., and Phytolacca acinosa, with its
rose-pink "pokers." From about three miles
before reaching Pa-ko-la to five miles beyond
the village one ot the commonest roadside
plants was Paeonia Delavayi. This species be-
longs to the Moutan section, and is closely
allied to Paeonia lutea. Delavay's Paeony is a
sub-shrubby plant 2 to 3 feet high, with rather
finely-cut leaves and very dark maroon flowers,
3 inches across. It favours stony places ex-
posed to the fullest sun. I venture to predict
for this striking plant a hearty welcome from all
plant lovers.

Leaving Pa-ko-la at noon, we continued to
descend tba ravine by a road at times fair, but
for the most part execrable and dangerous.
The mountain-sides were nearly vertical, and
clothed with forest ; the scenery wild and sav-
age. We crossed and je-crossed the stream four
times, and reached the village of Hokeou, alt.
8,800 feet, at five o'clock. The stream we fol-
lo'wed from near its source received many tribu-
taries, and carried down an enormous volume
of water. It may be aptly compared with the
Tatien-Iu river, being quite as large and nearly
as turbulent.

Hokeou, or Na-chu-ka, is a tiny village situ-
ated on a corner at the point of union of the
Orang-che torrent with the Yalung ri■^'er. It
consists of about a score of houses, and is in
charge of a small military official. Hokeou is
walled in by lofty mountains, and has no room
for expansion. On the opposite bank of the
Yalung is the residence of a local chieftain. The
Yalung, or, to use the native name, Nia-rong,
is a very similar river to the Tung, and at
Hokeou is about equal in breadth and volume
to the Tung river at Luting-chiao. It sweeps
past Hokeou in a curve with a fairly even cur-
rent, broken above and below by minor rapids.
It is crossed by ferry in summer, out in win-
ter is bridged by pontoons.

The whole of our day's journey was down a
narrow defile flanked by precipitous forest-clad
mountains. In the upper part of the forest two
species of Abies and a Picea form the bulk of
the timber. From 11,500 feet downwards a
species of Pinus assumes supremacy, though the
Picea and Abies Fargesii in reduced numbers
continue right along. The Pinus is a handsome
tree, singularly like the Scotch Pine, with two
leaves in the sheath, and very small cones.
Many of the trees were 80 to 100 feet high, with
a clean trunk for 50 to 60 feet. The wood is very
resinous, ana is valued for making torches and
for general building purposes.

Next to the Conifers, the commonest consti-
tuent of the forest is an evergreen prickly Oak.
On the high mountains this Oak is reduced to a
shrub, often not more than a foot high, but in
the forest it grows to a tree 20 to 30 feet high, and
its leaves become larger and less prickly. This
Oak is in all probability one of the many
forms of Quercus Ilex. Acer Davidii, a species
of Ash, and a Mulberry, were other common
tjees. Birch, Pyrus, Willow, and other small
trees were abundant in places.

The ravine generally enjo3's a warmer tem-
perature than would be expected from its alti-
tude. The rocks are principally slate, quartz,
and hard sandstone, and when denuded of
trees remain bare and arid. Down in the bed
of the ravine a very rich flora occurs, and I
gathered quite a large number of fresh plants.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 26, 1906.

The absence of Larch, Rhododendron, Deutzia,
Hj'drangea, and Viburnum was a marked fea-
ture of the day's journey. Paeonia Delavayi
and a shrubby species of Clematis (C. Delavayi),
having small pinnate leaves, silvery beneath,
and white flowers the size of a four-shilling
piece, were, perhaps, the most ititeresting
plants of the day. In moist shrubberies Cypri-
pedium himalaicum was common, and in
heathy places down to 10,000 feet Incarvillea
Principis was abundant. Rosa sericea, and, at
lower altitudes, a species of Philadelphus, were
(he show plants of the day — bushes 6 to 10 feet,
and as much in diameter, one mass of white !
Buxus sempervirens was a common shrub, and
the same may be said of several species of
I,onicera and Ligustrum. A species of
Wikstroemia with yellow flowers, Buddleia
nivea, Potentilla fruticosa var., Spirsea spp.,
Pittosporum sp., Abelia sp., Sophora viciifolia,
Paliurus sp., and two climbing species of
Jasmine — one with white and the other with
pink flowers — were other plants of interest noted
during the day. Herbs were, of course, abun-
dant, and I gathered quite a number of species
of Pedicularis, Senecio, Anemone, Primula,
Fritillaria, Polygala, terrestrial Orchids, and
Ferns.— £. //. W .

{To be continued.)

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM " JE.VN B.
PEETERS."
This most beautiful variety appeared at
' ' L'^tablissement Peeters ' ' among plants imported
six years ago. (Moral : Keep the little ones which
are slow to bloom.) Mons. F. Peeters has sent
me a painting which represents a 3J-inch bloom
most beautifully proportioned and coloured. The
sepals have a deep rose purple ground, heavily
blotched with deep crimson brown ; petals similarly
coloured, and covered for two-thirds of their
surface with a great horse-shoe blotch of the
same colour as in the sepals. Lip broadly
orbicular, having a horse-shoe shaped blotch of
lighter brown, with a disc of very bright yellow,
the column head being deep crimson. The
petals lap over the sepals, making the form of the
bloom excellent. It is worthily named in compli-
ment to Mons. J. B. Peeters, one of the acting
members of the firm. When this plant has become
a large one it will take very high rank indeed
among the numerous fine varieties that we now
know, and which seem to vie one with the other to
eclipse each other even as we "humans" do
in acquiring them, nature truly aiding our fancies.
dc B. Cratt'slmy .

in the centre which looked very hue, and
Kentias at ejtch end. The most attractive part
about it were the splendid Lilies of the Valley,
which showed up to the best advantage above the
pleasing green of the Ferns. Some of the Lilies
had from 15 to 25 bells open on one spike ; there
is no doubt that they are the best that have ever
been seen in the "dark continent." They were
exhibited by Messrs. Smith Bros. These two
exhibits were awarded equal first prizes. There
was a group of Ficus pandurata exhibited by
Messrs. Smith Bros. ; it was very effective, having
a row of Lily of the Valley round it ; a special
prize was awarded to it.

Other classes which were worthy of special men-
tion were as follows : — In the class for six plants
(Crotons) a plant of the variety Jupiter was 5 feet
high ; every leaf was superbly coloured, and the
plant was evenly furnished down to the pot.
Hawker and Queen Victoria were also very good.
One piece of Adiantum tenerum Farleyense was
3 feet through. Six Coleus plants from St.
George's Park were very good, well-grown speci-
mens, and the difference in colour and variety
was particularly good.

The best foliage plant was a very fine specimen
of Cocos Yatai, its elegant habit and silvery
colour left little doubt as to the best specimen ; it
was 8 feet high. The cactus Dahlias exhibited in
tins were very good considering the time of the
year.

In the cut flower classes the cactus Dahlias ex-
hibited by Mr. S. Brett and from the St. George's
Park were very choice, they were awarded equal
first prizes.

The bridal bouquets were also awarded equal
first prizes, but why this was done did not appear,
for one was well made of Lily of the Valley and
worth £o, and the other was not worth £2. Why
the judges could not decide which was the best
exhibit in four instances out of 24 classes ouglit to
have been explained.

In the fruit section there were not so many
entries as one would like to have seen. The col-
lections of Apples were very good for the month
of April.

The collection of Grapes exhibited by C. J.
Howlett were very good, considering they had
been packed in bo.xes for two days. For the best
collection of Pears there were two exhibits, the
first prize lot had four dishes, they were nice large
even Pears, but there being only one dish of ripe
specimens it was not satisfactory. Interested.

COLONIAL NOTE.

PORT ELIZABETH AGRICULTURAL

SHOW.

Horticultural Section.

This show, which was held on April 4, 5 and 6,
was the very best ever held on the new show
ground.

The Horticultural section had many more entries
than usual, and the quality was much better
than in the previous year. The exhibits in the
amateur's classes were not so good as might have
been expected, but this was partly owing to the
show having been too early for Chrysanthemums.
In the open classes the exhibits were very good.
The best were two groups of plants arranged in
spaces not exceeding 80 superficial feet. One was
composed chiefly of Crotons, Dracaenas, tuberous
Begonias, and Chrysanthemums, with a large plant
of Areca lutescens in the centre, exhibited from
the St. George's Park. The other had a ground-
work of Ferns ; also Crotons, Dracaenas, and
Aralias, with a beautiful plant of Cocos Yatai

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)

Delphiniums. — No special societies yet exist to
further the claims of such fine hardy plants as the
majestic perennial Delphiniums and the perennial
Phlox. The Pjeony is usually treated to a little
shelter, so as to be in time to make a display at the
Temple Show. It is too early for Delphiniums
and Phlox, which, moreover, might resent coddling.
No special occasion for their display follows sub-
sequently, altliough the summer show at Holland
House, might be appropriate for the Delphiniums.
It might contribute to the raising of these two rela-
tively neglected plants, the Delphinium and the
Phlox, to a plane somewhat higher than they
have hitherto enjoyed, were the Council of the
Royal Horticultural Society to arrange two dif-
ferent dates from among the dates of the July and
August fortnightly meetings, when all lovers of
these plants might be solicited to make a simul-
taneous display. This opportunity would not be
lost upon numerous admirers, and a great spread
of the love of these plants might be evolved. I
trust the matter may find favour, and that the Coun-
cil may be induced to issue an early invitation in
the columns of the horticultural press, so that fine
displays may be seen even in this coming summer.
H. H. Raschcn. Sidcup, Kent, May 20, 1906.

The Fruit Prospects in South-East
Essex. — So far as Apples are concerned the crop
for the year 1906 promises to be a most bountiful
one in this part of Essex, all the trees being
furnished with large trusses of healthy, well-
developed blossoms, upon which the recent frosts
have had no ill effects — thanks to "the vigour
and dry condition of the blossoms. But the April
frosts spoiled the prospect of the Pear, Plum, and
Cherry crops, which will amount to very little.
However, as far as the general public is concerned,
the lightness or even total failure of the Pear.
Plum, and Cherry crops does not count for much
so long as the crop of. to them the most important
fruit, the Apple, is a prodigious one. K drive
through the rural districts is very enjoyable just
now, when the Apple trees in the orchards that
present themselves on every side are densely
covered with the fully expanded blossoms of pink
and white. Gooseberries and Currants will be a
light crop, but Raspberries will be plentiful. H.
II'. Ward. Lime House, Rayleigk. May 19, 1906,

Schizanthus. — Having recently read several
letters respecting Schizanthus, I made a journey
to Cote House, Westbury-on-Trym. to see Mr.
Bannister's collection. On arriving at Cote House
I was taken to a house where the choicest plants
in the collection are grown. It was delightful to
see such a display of colour as was there. On the
side stage of the house were about 50 plants of
both the light and dark coloured varieties, and I
do not think there were two plants of the same
colour ; they were growing chiefly in C-inch pots,
and not only were they well grown, being of good ■
bushy habit, but the individual flowers were very
fine. I have seen nothing to equal this collection,
for there are some of the most delicate shades of
colour, as well as the rich shades |among the darker
varieties. These plants are easily grown, and
being so graceful in habit, they are useful not
only for cultivation in pots but for supplying
flowers for cutting purposes. They will remain
in good condition in water for a long time, and
every bud will open perfectly. Mr. Bannister has
a large number of plants for a later display. H.
Noble, Ashton Court Gardens, Bristol, May 15, 1006.

Silver Leaf in Laburnum. — I am sending
for your inspection a portion of a twig of
Laburnum, which shows plain signs of " silver
leaf disease." Generally the disease appears on
leaves of Plums. Cherries. Peaches. Apples, and
Laurel-Cherries, and I have not been able to dis-
cover any record of its appearance on Laburnum.
Prof. Percival, who has made careful and exhaus-
tive inoculation experiments with the view of find-
ing the cause of this malady, ascribes it to the
action of the fungus Stereum purpureum, which
is confirmed in this case. There are three
shrubs of Laburnum growing within easy distance
of each other, and only one of them shows the
silvery leaves, and it is interesting to note that
a portion of the shrub is killed and covered every-
where with the growth of the Stereum fungus.
The other two shrubs are still perfectly healthy,
and bear normal foliage. Hans Ciussoic. [This is.
we believe, the first time this disease has been
found on any other than Rosaceous plants. When
we received the specimens the leaves were withered
and the silvery appearance was not very con-
spicuous. Ed.]

LisiANTHUS RusSELLiANUS is now so seldom
seen either in private gardens or in trade estab-
lishments that I received quite a surprise
recently on being conducted through the glass
department in Miss AHce de Rothschild's
superb domain at Eythorpe. The superintendent.
Mr. Gibbs, called my attention to a batcli of
100 or more plants of this attractive Lisianthus',
healthy, vigorous little plants which promise to
give a charming effect m a few months' time
with their bluish, violet-tinted flowers. This
stock of plants was raised from seed saved at
Eythorpe last summer by Mr Gibbs from a single
plant which he got up from seed purchased the
previous year. I have invariably found that seed
of this Lisianthus purchased from the seed-
merchants is very shy of germinating, and I
cannot but think that these small seeds lose
their vitality in a comparatively short time, and,
consequently, that the failure generally experienced
to raise stock from seed offered by the seed-mer-
chants is due to the seeds having been imported, and
possibly to being two or more years old before
ti^ey are sown. Judging by Mr. Gibbs's success
with home-saved seed we need not despair of
again seeing this plant largely contributing to the
summer-embellishment of our greenhouses and

May 26, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

300
00

the warmer borders out of doors. To mention the
name of Eythorpe to a horticulturist and to
omit any reference to Miss de Rothschild's
marvellous collection of Carnations would be
unpardonable. I have many times seen her
Carnations since she first seriously undertook
their cultivation, but I never before saw them
in such good condition as they are now in. There
are hundreds of plants in 9-inch pots that were
propagated during the August of ia04, and they
have from 18 to 21 strong, healthy shoots
furnished to their base, with loliage of the sub-
stance and colour of Leeks. Every shoot is set with
flower buds, and there is not the slightest trace
of rust or the after mark of an aphis on them,
which shows the very high standard of cultivation
attained at Eythorpe. The younger stock, now
about nine months old from the layering period,
is in every respect equal in condition to the older
plants, and tiiis notwithstanding that the plants
are standing " pot to pot." In addition to all the
standard varieties of the "Malmaison" and the
summer-flowering tree sections, there are numerous
seedlings raised at Eythorpe which, if tabled at
Vincent Square, would. I believe, not only win
the admiration, but e.xcite the envy of amateur
and trade growers, J . Jaqucs.

Spring Cabbages. — My experience with spring
Cabbages has been exactly the same as described
by Mr. Gibson on page 315. In a large bed
containing several varieties not a single plant of
Sutton's "Flower of Spring" or of the newer
variety "April" has bolted, while of " EUam's
Early Dwarf" quite a large proportion is show-
ing flower. The variety "Enfield Market"
is, however, quite the worst oftender in this
respect, very few being useable. Such e.xperience
seems to pro\ e that the newer varieties are much
more reliable in this district than the older ones
named above. All the varieties were sown and
also planted out at the same time, and have been
given exactly the same treatment. I have grown
"Flower of Spring" for about seven years in
Ireland, and the variety "April" since its
introduction, and have found both very satis-
factory. /. G. Weston, Easttvell Park Gardens,
Kent.

Observations on Exhibiting Vegetables.

— To be successful in obtaining the highest
awards, every detail must be carefully studied.
Perseverance should be practised, and an en-
deavour be made to make the points that were
weakest last time the strongest on the succeed-
ing occasion. I have often noticed that prizes
are lost, especially when exhibiting collections,
by the inclusion of some particular kind of vege-
table that is not in accordance with the general
exhibit for the season. Unfortunately, there are
not sufficient prizes awarded for distinct varieties
of vegetables at our leading shows If prizes
were offered for individual varieties, there
would, no doubt, be good competitions. For
instance, prizes are often offered for a " Dish of
Carrots," and exhibitors may show either Inter-
mediate or Stump-rooted varieties. In such a
case it becomes a question which variety should
be given the highest award ; but, as a rule, it is
accorded to the Intermediate. There are also
many other kinds that could be more properly
defined, such as Beet, Lettuce, Celery, Tomatos,
&x. In exhibits of Tomatos we seldom find
many of the Yellow and Peachblow varieties,
but why? Is it because the red varieties have
generally been given the precedence? Classes
should be set apart for the Dessert and Yellow
varieties. The chief value in classes for separate
kinds and varieties is that they bring out the
highest possible type of any variety to perfec-
tion. Classes for salads and herbs should also
be instituted, as they would prove interesting.
Prizes for collections of vegetables are usually
offered for six, nine or twelve kinds. Cauli-
flowers, Potatos, and Carrots should be included
throughout the season, making up the six dishes
with Tomatos, Onions, and Peas, according to
the season ; failing Peas, use Celery. For a col-
lection of nine kinds at early shows must be
added French Beans, Marrows, Globe Artichokes
or Beet. At mid-season shows. Cauliflowers,
Potatos, Carrots, Onions, Celery, Leeks, Peas,
Tomatos, and Runner Beans. Later in the sea-
son Sprouts and Parsnips should take the places
of Peas and Runner Beans. An exhibit of 12
kinds eaily in the season should include Cauli-
flowers, .Potatos, Carrots, Tomatos, Onions,
Peas, French Beans, Marrows, Beet, Turnips,
Cucumbers, and Globe Artichokes, or Broad
Beans. At mid-stason shows substitute Parsnips,

Runner Beans, Leeks, and Celery in places of
Marrows, French Beans, Globe Artichokes, and
Cucumbers. At late shows the 12 dishes should
consist of Cauliflowers, Potatos, Carrots, Toma-
tos, Onions, Beet, Turnips, Parsnips, Leeks,
Celery, Sprouts, and Cabbages. In exhibits of
collections the number of each vegetable ex-
hibited as a dish should be the number stated
in the schedule. Failing this, the judges should
take it into consideration that a certain number
is sufficient to form a dish. Prizes should be
given for good arrangement, and a certain
amount of space should be allowed as a standard
lor a collection of so many kinds. This would
be welcomed by all exhibitors, as then they
could have their staging made complete before-
hand. U'. /. Frilchcrd, Ehtrcc.

Saxifraga Boydh. — I am much obliged to Mr.
Boyd for placing on record (seep. 301) the history of
this plant, and I doubt not many who grow choice
.Alpines will also be grateful for the information.
Hitherto the general assumption in southern circles
has been that the plant was the result of artificial
pollination, and 1 had this idea in my mind when
I wTote concerning it. It is, however, interesting
to know that the plant is what may be called a
chance seedling, and this fact should stimulate
those possessing collections of choice plants to
look out for seeds or seedlings. Not a few of these
rare and choice Saxifragas seed but rarely when
left to themselves, and I have long since thought
this to be in large degree due to frost injuring the
stigmatic lobes when these are in the receptive
stage. Greater success is achieved when later in
the season a stray flower opens, and in all prob-
ability it was a late stray blossom that gave us S.
Boydii. Only in some such way as this could a
stigma of S. Burseriana receive pollen to be in-
fluenced thereby by the much later flowering S.
aretioides. One is more than interested to learn
that S. ■ Faldonside " is regarded as superior to S.
Boydii, E.H.Jenkins.

Wilks, M.A.
Visitor, Moiis. P

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.
Scientific Committee.

M.\Y 15.— Present: Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S.
(in the chair) ; Messrs. Massee, Douglas, Boul-
ger, Nicholson, Hemsley, Worsdell, Sutton,
Giissow, and Saunders ; Rev. \V.
F. J. Chittenden (hon. sec.)
de Vilmorin.

Beetles on Pine. — Mr. S.WNDERS reported that
the trees from Brandon Park shown at the last
meeting a:e attacked by the Pine b;etle, liylur-
gus piniperda. The best thing that can be done
is to go carefully through the plantation and pull
up and burn every tree that shows the least
signs of being infested by this insect. The
grubs, which do far more harm to the trees
than the parent bestle, cannot be reached with-
out barking the trees. It is certain that t'pis
insect does not attack healthy trees unless there
are no dead or dying ones for them to breed
in ; so that in a plantation, when a tree begins
to show signs of want of vitality, it should be
at once removed.

Injured Vine Leaves. — Mr. Massee said con-
cerning those referred to him at the last meet-
ing : " There is no specific injury caus:d by
fungi or insects. The discolouration is due to
sunlight falling on leaves covered in places
with a film of moisture. Ventilation in t^e early
morning would prevent this."

Coloured Tendrils of Szveet Peas. — Referring to
this matter, raised at the last meeting by Mr.
CuTHnERTsox, Mr. Bateson, F.R.S., writes:
" \Ve have kept note of this character as far as
possible in our work. The red tendrils are
( ? always) associated with red in the axils of
the leavES. In our records we have spoken of
this feature as ' dark axil,' the opposite as ' light
axil.' The 'dark axil' character may be pre-
sent in any Sweet Pea, whether the flowers are
coloured or whit?, but it is not developed unless
the flow-er is in some degree coloured, we believe.
There are 'whites' with dark axils, e.g., the
black-seeded form of Mrs. Sankey ; but we think
the white.=t of such flowers alv/ays have a trace
of colour in the keel. At all events, there is
no dark-axil plant which does not have a black
seed coat."

The following table shows the various results
occurring in the crosses. The first distiiiction to

be drawn is between whites bearing tlje dark-
axil character — call it (D), or its absence (d).
By crossing with a coloured flower light-axil
variety the point can be settled, for the (D)
white will then give a dark-axil . crossbred,
whereas the (d) white gives a lighv'axil cross-
bred, thus — ,^y

Coloured flower x white (D)

(d)

I
Fi coloured flower, dark axil.

But:

Coloured flower
(d)

white (d)

I

Fi coloured flower, light axil.

Then :

Coloured flower x white (D)

dark axil

I

F.i 3 coloured flowers ;
all dark axil

But:

Coloured flower x
dark axil

coloured flowers, dark axil
I __

I

1 white

light axil (D)

white (d)

1-1

coloured flowers dark
axil

I I 1 .

F2 9 coloured flowers 3 coloured flowers 4 white

dark axil light axil

These four white are all alike in appearance,
but are really

1 D D (pure to dark axil) : D d (crosses

between dark and light axil) : 1 d d

(pure to light axil).

Excepting in rare and doubtful cases, white
flowered plants have light axils, but they may
possess the factor which makes dark axils if it
meets -flower-colour. There are thus two kinds of
white-flowered plants: —

A, White-flowered bearing D, the dark axil factor.

B, \Vhite-flowered without D.

Both -A and B have light axils in fact, and to
the eye, but if A be crossed with a coloured-
flowered, light-axil variety, Fl will he coloured
flowered with dark axils ; while if B be crossed
with the same coloured-flowered light-axil
variety, Fl will be coloured flowered with light
axils. In the case where two whites crossed
give a coloured Fl this will have dark axil or
light axil, according as one or both of the whites,
bore dari< axils or neither.

If neither bore dark axils this F' will have
light axils, though the flowers are coloured.

It follows that every light-axil plant must
breed true to light axil, but a dark axil plant
must either

1, Breed true to daik axil
or 2, Give 3 dark : 1 light
or 3, Give 9 dark : 7 light
&c., Xx.

Tropaolum with Two Spurs. — Mr. Worsdell
said that several theories had b?en brought for-
ward as to the morphological value of the spurs
of Tropaeolum. Some had regarded the spur
as an outgrowth of the axis of the flower, and
the flower with two spurs had been regarded as
supporting this theory, since if the spur were
an outgrowth of the calyx, a multiplication of
spurs would apparently involve a splitting of
the calyx, which had not occurred in the case
under investigation.

Solanum Conirnersoni and its Alleged Sports. —
Mons. P. DE Vilmorin, who was heirtily wel-
comed by the chairman in the name of the com.
mittce, contributed some remarks upon the al-
leged sport of Solanum Commersoni, a matter
which has already been brought before the com-
mittee bv Mr. Sutton and ofners. Mr. Sutton
suggested that the Wisley Sub-commiit^e should
be requested to grow side by side for comparison
Mons. Labergerie's violet variety, and Blue
Giant, which it so greatly resembles.

Uredo polypodii on Cystopleris. — Professor
Boi'LGER showed a specimen of this rust fungus
from Matlock growing on Cystopteris fragilis.

o34

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 26, 190U.

Galls on Gooseberry. — Mr. Saunders showed
some gall-like growths from a Gooseberry bush,
the whole of the bushes in the garden being
similarly affected. These growths were attri-
buted by some members to a l^hytoptus, but none
was to be seen at this stage, and by others
to injury by frost, followed by a great production
of callus.

Reversion in Auricula. — Mr. Dovglas showed
an Auricula bearing yellow flowers with serrated
edges, almost identical with figures published
170 years ago of Primula Auricula in size, colour
and form of flowers. It was an interesting ex-
ample of atavism, since it was raised from seed
of a show type of Auricula having an even white
edge and an almost perfectly blac't ground.

Insects Ealing Iris. — The grub of a moth which
was found eating Iris sibirica and I. Delavayi,
but not other species, was sent by G. Yeld,
Esq., of York. Mr. Saunders took the specimen
lor further examination.

Irises Dying. — Through Mr. Lynch came
specimens of Iris spuria var. A. W. Tait, from
Rev. RoLLO Meyer, of Ampthill, Beds., the
stems of which were rotting, the leaves being
marked with pale spots ; other species had been
attacked, and where the " German " Irises were
the victims the rhizome became affected as well
as the lower part of the leaf. Lime had been
found to improve the plants greatly. Mr.
Nicholson said that some years ago at Kew
many Irises were similarly affected, and the
trouble was then found to be due to the attacks
of a bacterium, and lime proved a good specific
in that case also.

Fungus Galls on Azalea. — Dr. Masters showed
galls on the buds of Azalea indica received from
Bruges as large as filbert nuts in the husk, and
of a pale green or reddish colour, though other-
wise similar to those seen on some species of
Rhododendron caused by Exobasidium rhodo-
dendri.

Sports. — Mr. Holmes, F.L.S., sent a very fas.
ciated specimen of Fritillaria imperialis bearing
three or four times the normal number of
flowers ; also pale pink flowers of the common
Bluebell, a wild form which had remained con-
stant for four years ; and a specimen of the well-
known Jack-in-the-Green Primrose, but having
eight sepals and six petals.

Plants exhibited. — Richardia Rehmanni. A
plant of this species with puce-coloured spathe
came from Col. C. O. rioUE ; it is rarely
seen in cultivation. Mr. R. Irwin Lynch,
V.M.H., of the Cambridge Botanic Gardens,
sent a large number of rare and interesting
plants as ioUows : — Sandersonia aurantiaca, a
climbing Liliaceous plant, very interesting, for
comparison with its near allies Littonia and
Gloriosa, the foliage being very similar in these
three distinct genera ; Gladiolus tristis, which
proves hardy on a border beneath a wall ; Loni-
cera tibetica, a newly-introduced plant (see
Revue Horticoh, 1S02, p. 448), quite unlike the
majority of the Honeysuckles ; Erinacea pun-
gens, a beautiful plant with inflated pale
greenish calyx tinged with heliotrope, and a
darker corolla, coming between Ulex and Spar-
tium ; Coronilla Emerus, from a plant collected
at Interlaken ; Cotyledon undulata [Botanical
Magazine, t. 7931) ; Lathraea clandestina, a para,
site on roots of Willow, with beautiful rosy-
lilac flowers and white bracts (see Gardeners'
Chronicle, 1904, May 7, p. 292) ; Solanum Xantii
(fig. in Botanical Magazine), a Cambridge intro-
duction ; Heterotoma lobelioides, the " Bird
Flower " of Mexico, a curious plant, belonging
to Campanulaceae ; Richardia cantabrigiensis (R.
Rehmanni x R. melanoleucal, a hybrid raised at
Cambridge, showing intensification of the pink
colour of the female parent ; Tropa:-olum azu-
leum, a rare and beautiful greenhouse perennial
from Cnili ; Fendiera rupicola, monotypic and
allied to Philadelphus and Carpenteria, a native
of Texas and Mexico ; Bomarea patacoensis,
Herbert (Amaryl., 120, t. 141 = B. conferta of
Gardeners' Chronicle, 1882, 186, t. 91 ; Centaurea
crassifolia, with very fleshy leaves, peculiar to
Malta, a sub-shrubby plant introduced by Rev.
Professor Henslow ; Orobanche ramosa flore
alba ; a good yellow form of Pasonia Wittman.
niana ; P. Emodi, a very tender plant,« and the
beautifully.coloured P. officinalis lobata ; Iris
Koroikowi and the beautiful hybrid forms I.
Korolkowi x iberica, I. Koroikowi x vaga, I.
paradoxa X Koroikowi, I. iberica X pallida, a
very fine and easily-cultivated border plant

(these hybrids were of Sir Michael Foster's
raising) ; I. biflora gracilis, probably a hybrid
between I. virescens and I. nudicaulis ; I. bena-
censis (not yet figured), an early-flowering
sweet-scented purple species ; Anthemis cupa-
niana, a species which Mr. Lynch believes to
be new ; Cheiranthus mutabilis, one of the
parents of C. kewensis ; Euphorbia polj'chroma,
E. spinosa, and E. serrata. A vote of thanks
was unanimously accorded to Mr. Lynch for his
kindness in sending the interesting plants men-
tioned above.

REDHILL, REIGATE, AND DISTRICT
GARDENERS'.

May 7. — The first of the summer out door
meetings held under the auspices of this Associa-
tion took place on the above date, when about
80 of the members availed themselves of the
opportunity aflbrded by the kind permission of Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart., and ot her Grace Lily
Duchess of Marlborough, to visit the Gardens at
Burford Lodge and Deepdene respectively.

The Orchid houses, herbaceous garden, and
pleasure grounds at Burford aft'orded much that
was interesting. After partaking of tea at the Star
and Garter Hotel, the party went on to Deepdene
and inspected the Carnations, Orchids, fruit
gardens, and pleasure grounds of this famous
estate. The Rhododendrons, for which Deepder.e
is famous, evoked much admiration. F.L.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

May- 10. — This was the last meeting of the
1905-1906 session, and there was a capital dis-
play of plants.

The members of the Committee present were :
Messrs. W arburton (Chairman), i^eemann, E.
Ashworth, R. Ashworth, Sander, Cowan, Up-
john, Shill, Rogers, Ritchie, Parker, Thorpe,
Cypher, WUliamson, Schofield, Smith, Ashton,
Duckworth, Weathers (Hon. Sec).

H. T. Pitt, Esq., Stamford Hill, London,
provided the great treat of the meeting in a dis.
play of magnificently grown Odontoglossums.
O. crispum Pittianum, with a splendid spike of
flowers, was awarded a Gold Medal. This
superb plant needs no further description here ;
suffice It to say that the Society felt proud to
have such a gem at their meeting. O. crispum
var. Capartianum received a First Class Certifi-
cate. This plant was another model of good
cultivation. The wonderful O. crispum var.
Ashworthianum, which might be described as a
mass of violet purple colour with a white mar-
gin, was also exhibited, but as the plant had
been disbudded no award could be made to it.
We hope to see it again in the same rude health
as the two foregoing varieties. Mr. Pitt is to
be sincerely congratulated on his display-
The most extraordinary variety of Odontoglos-
sum shown was named O. crispum var. aurea
excellens. To all appearances this lovely flower
is a pure variety of O. crispum, but the Com-
mittee by vote decreed that such was not the
case. It really has as much claim to be con-
sidered a form of O. crispum as many varieties,
but doubts as to its pedigree cannot detract from
its beauty, and it is one of the most lovely
Odontoglossums ever seen. O. crispum aureum
excellens was exhibited by Messrs. McBean, of
Cooksbridge, Sussex. [Since given a R.H.S.
Award of Merit under the name O. crispum
aureum laburnum. — Ed.]

Mr. John Robson, Altrincham, exhibited a
nice set of Odontoglossums, viz., O. crispum
var. Raymond Crawshay, O. c. var. Excelsior,
O. X Golden Queen, O. c. var. Mrs. Peelers.
(Vote of Thanks.)

Mr. A. A. Peeters, Brussels, exhibited
Odontoglossum crispum var. " Uccle," named,
I believe, after his establishment near Brussels.
It is a fine spotted variety, and was awarded a
First-Class Certificate. (16 votes to 2.) O. X
Larabeauianum was shown by the same exhi-
bitor.

R. Ashworth, Esq., Newchurch (gr. Mr.
Pidsley), obtained an Award of Merit for a
pretty variety of OdMntoglossum crispum named
" Princess Ena," and was awarded a Silver
Medal for a very good group of miscellaneous
Orchids.

A. W'arburtox, Esq., Haslingden (gr. Mr.

Raven), was awarded a Silver Medal for a well,
staged group of plants, in which were several
nice forms of Cattleya Mendeli and some good
Odontoglossums.

P. Smith, Esq., Ashton-on-Mersey, ob-
tained a Silver Medal for a group consisting of
Cattleyas, Odontoglossums, and a good plant of
Oncidium lamelligerum.

R. Lea Doux, Esq., West Derby (gr. Mr.
Davenport), was given a Vote of Thanks for a
small group of plants, in which varieties of
Odontoglossum crispum were conspicuous.

Messrs. Keeling & Sons, Westgate Hill, near
Bradford, exhibited a small group, principally of
Cypripediums.

G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., Rawtenstall (gr.
Mr. Shill), obtained a Silver Medal for a well-
grown collection.

J. W. Moore, Ltd., Rawdon, near Leeds,
staged a small group, in which was Dendrobium
X Euterpe, var. " Olive Jessop."

J. Leemann, Esq., Heaton Mersey (gr. Mr.
Smith), obtained a Cultural Certificate for a fine
plant of Phaleenopsis Rimestadtiana.

Messrs. Cowan & Co., Ltd., exhibited a
natural hybrid Odontoglossum.

The annual general meeting was held in the
afternoon, with a good attendance of members.
The honorary secretary's report was read and
adopted. The finances of the society were
shown to be in a good condition, and the work
of the past year was of an excellent character.
A rule was passed which will allow members in
the coming session to exhibit disbudded plants.

Mr. Elijah Ashworth was elected chairman,
Mr. A. Warburton vice-chairman, Mr. S. Gratrix
treasurer, and Mr. P. Weathers, hon. sec.

The next meeting will be held at the Botanical
Gardens in \\Tiit week. P.W.

UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT
AND PROVIDENT.

May' 14. — The usual monthly committee meet-
ing of this society was held at the Royal Horticul-
tural Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, on the
above date, Mr. C. H. Curtis in the chair. Ten
new members were elected and one nominated.
Two deaths were reported. Nine members were
reported on the sick fund. The amount paid for
sickness since the last meeting was /29 8s.

ROYAL BOTANIC.

May 16. — At this meeting one of the most in-
teresting exhibits was from Sir F. T. Barry,
liart, M.P. (gr. R. Brown), wdio staged a large
collection of Camellias, all cut from plants
growing in the open ground. Several of the
varieties were those raised in the gardens at St.
Leonard's Hill, Windsor. A very fine, pure white
single variety. Lady Barry, was awarded a Cer-
tificate of Merit. Sir F. T. Barry, a crimson
single, was a good variety, but had suffered a
little from the weather. In a conversation with
the gardener we gathered the information that
all plants intended for planting out were kept
as cool as possible and growth retarded until
April, when they were planted in the open, thus
giving the plants the chance of making their
growth at the proper period, and well matur-
ing it before the autumn frosts. This is a point
which many fail to recognise in planting out
Chinese and Japanese plants. Ulider glass they
mature their growth early, and if planted out
in the summer they are sure to start into
growth early the following spring, with the re-
sult that they will suffer from the late frosts,
and have no chance of recovering to make their
natural growth.

Among other exhibits Tulips were well shown
by various exhibitors, and several were awarded
Certificates of Merit. Of these the rich deep
yellow W. T. W'are was one of the best. La
Reve and Inglescombe Yellow also received
awards.

Some remarkable blooms of Calla Elliottiana
came from Walpole Gkeenwell, Esq., Croy-
don.

Mr. S. Mortimer was given a First-Class
Certificate for Tomato Sunrise, a very prolific,
early, small-fruited variety.

Trollius Lemon Queen, from Mr. Amos
Pfrry, received a Certificate of Merit. It is a
very pretty, clear, pale yellow variety.

There were numerous other exhibits, but
most of them were referred to in the report in
last week's issue of the R.H.S. meeting.

May 26, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

335

ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTURAL
SOCIETY.

May 18. — A largely-attended meeting of gen-
tlemen interested in forestry was held in the
Douglas Hotel, Aberdeen, on the above date,
with a view to the formation of a branch of the
above Society at Aberdeen. Mr. W. Stewart
Fothringham, of Murthly, president of the parent
society, occupied the chair. The meeting was
held in accordance with tlie important step that
has been taken by the Royal Scottish Arboricul-
tuial Society to form district branches through-
out Scotland as at Aberdeen, Inverness, Perth,
Glasgow, and, possibly, also at Dumfries, for
the southern counties. The Aberdeen branch is
to include the counties of Aberdeen, Banff, and
Kincardine.

There was a large attendance of proprietors,
factors, and foresters.

Air. Crozier, forester, Durris Estates, moved
that a branch of the Royal Scottish Arboricul-
tur^l Society be formed in the Aberdeen dis-
trict. Mr. John Clark, forester to the Earl of
.\berdeen, Haddo House, Aberdeenshire,
seconded, and the motion was agreed to unani-
mously.

Mr. France moved that Mr. Gordon, of New-
ton, be appointed president. Tho motion was
enthusiastically agreed to.

Four vice-presidents and a committee of lii
persons were elected.

Mr. Robert Scott, solicitor, Aberdeen, was ap-
pointed hon. secretary and treasurer of the
branch.

HEREFORDSHIRE FRUIT GROWERS
. AND HORTICULTURISTS.

May 19. — About 40 members of the above As-
sociation spent an interesting and instructive
day in the neighbourhood of Ross (Hereford-
shire) on the above date. The majority of the
party arrived in the town by the 10.25 train, and
were driven to Mr. H. ¥ . Getting's 50 acres of
(luit plantation at Glewstone. A couple of hours
were pleasantly spent in inspecting the fruit
trees, their method of culture, pruning, spraying,
and manuring, and comparisons were made with
other plantations. The excursionists were
driven in the afternoon to Caradoc to inspect
Mr. E. W. Caddicli's fruit and market garden-
ing grounds, which cover an extent of 19 acres.
A tour was made of the e.xtensive vineries and
glasshouses, both at Caradoc and Caradoc Court,
tlie magnificence of the flowers, &c., and the
beauty of the delightfuUy-laid-out grounds being
much appreciated.

NATIONAL TULIP.

May 23. — The thirteenth annual exhibition
was held on the above date in the Royal Botanic
Society's gardens. Regent's Park, the society re-
visiting these gardens for the first time since
1898. The show, considering the season, was
up to all expectations, some of the flowers be-
ing of excellent quality. The untoward weather,
however, prevented some champions from con-
testing, while Mr. Bentley was only enabled to
send a small number of flowers of moderate
quality. On the whole, the show must be
judged as not quite up to that of last year. The
Cambridge growers were well represented, and
were enabled to send some excellent flowers,
while for Miss Willmott's exhibits nothing but
praise is to be bestowed. It is very gratifying
to the society to see so many new competitors,
for the present list of competitors comprises
almost all newcomers since the last exhibition
held in these gardens, now eight years ago.
The trade groups were all good, and required
much careful scrutiny by the judges in order
to appropriate the awards. Flamed bizarre
flowers, as a rule, were weak in quality.

The premier class for 12 dissimilar rectified
Tulips, to include two feathered and two flamed
flowers of each class, was represented bv four
entries. The best were shown by Miss \Vill-
MOTT, Warley Place, Great Warley, who had
flowers of bold substance and good markings.
Her varieties included Sir J. Paxton, Modesty,
Dr. Hardy, a fine flamed bybloemen, Guido,
Mrs. Collier, Bessie, Adonis, Mabel, an excel-
lent flower. Duchess of Sutherland, Annie
McGregor (fine colour), and Wm. Annibal, a
beautiful feathered bybloemen. 2nd: Mr. A. D.
Hall, Harpenden, with good flowers of Mabel',

feathered rose. Attraction, an exceptionally
good flower with beautiful pencillings, and
Talisman, feathered bybloemen. 3rd : Mr. W.
Dunn, Cambridge. 4th ; Mr. A. Chater, Cam-
bridge.

The class for six dissimilar rectified Tulips, to
include one feathered and one flamed flower of
each class, was contested by six exhibitors. The
first prize fell to the same grower as in the
preceding class, the varieties being Queen of the
May, Modesty, Wm. Annibal (grand specimen).
Talisman, Sir J. Paxton, and Annie McGre-
gor, the last named being a superb example.
Mr. A. D. Hall was again second, his best
flowers being Mabel, an excellent specimen, Sir
J. Paxton, Universe, and Attraction. All the
feathered flowers were good in this exhibit.
3rd : Mr. J. Bentley, Middleton, Lancashire,
who showed a remarkably good specimen of
Bessie, a feathered bybloemen.

In the class for three feathered Tulips, one
of each class, Mr. Hall led with the varieties
Sarah Ann, Bessie, and Wm. Annibal. 2nd :
Miss W'lLLMOTT, with Masterpiece, Modesty,
and Adonis.

In the similar class for three flamed Tulips,
one of each class, Mr. Bentley was first with
three very level blooms of good colours in Annie
McGregor, Talisman, and Sir Joseph Paxton.
Miss Willmott's second prize group contained
a very bold specimen of Annie McGregor.

The class for six dissimilar Breeder Tulips
furnished something unique in that the first
prize was taken with six seedling flowers shown
by Mr. A. D. Hall. Diana Vernon is a "rose"
seealing of much merit, Eos is another fine
thing, Skarpheddin is the pecular shade of cho-
colate-brown seen in Sir J. Paxton. 2nd: Mr.
W. Dunn, whose best examples were Goldfinder,
Mrs. Barlow, and Talisman. 3rd : Miss Will-
mott, with good flowers that would undoubtedly
have taken the first prize, but for a bad speci-
men of Samuel Barlow.

The best stand of three dissimilar Breeder
Tulips was put up by Mr. W. Peters, Cam-
bridge, who had John Heap, Elizabeth Pegg,
r.nd Lloyd's 200 2nd : Mr. W. Dunn, whose
best examples were those of Mrs. Barlow and
Agnes.

Samuel Barlow Prizes.
These prizes are offered in memory of the
late Samuel Barlow, and are for the best pair
of rectified Tulips, one feathered and one
flamed of any class. The premier prize was
won by Mr. A. D. Hall with examples of Sir
Joseph Paxton and George Hayward, the latter
flower being of exceptional substance and
vigour. Mr. A Chater took the second prize
with Modesty and Wm. Chater.

Classes open only to growers of fewer than 4.00
bulbs. — The principal class in this section was
for six dissimilar rectified Tulips, two of each
class, eithered feathered or flamed. The pre-
mier place was secured by Mr. R. W. Hall,
Harpenden, whose example of Sam Barlow was
remarkably good. Mr. J. F. Kew was first for
three feathered Tulips, one of each class, with
Sir Joseph Paxton, Universe, and Aglaia. 2nd :
Mr. Hall. Mr. E. Chater, Salisbury, had the
best three flamed Tulips, and Miss Haedcastle,
Harpenden, tho best three dissimilar Breeder
Tulips.

Garden Tulips. — These classes are an innova-
tion, but the response was poor, and the
few competitors who entered had it all their
own way. For twelve varieties of garden Tu-
lips Mr. W. C. Bull, Ramsgate, was the only
exhibitor, but his flowers were excellent, and
received the first prize. His best specimens
were Mrs. Moon, Emerald Gem, Parisian White,
Gala Beauty, a magnificent vase, and Faerie
Queen. Mr'. Baetlett, Shooters Hill, had the
best six varieties of Darwin Tulips, and the
best six varieties of garden Tulips, while Mr.
Bull was the only exhibitor for a group of
Tulips arranged for effect.

Premier Flowers. — The premier Breeder Tulip
was the new Diana Vernon, shown by Mr. A.
D. Hall. The premier " feathered " Attraction,
also shown by Mr. Hall. The premier flamed
Tulip, Mabel, shown by Miss Willmott.

Non-competitive Exhibits.

Four excellent collections of Tulips were

staged by trade exhibitors. A brilliant collection

comprising over 100 varieties in 170 vases was

shown by Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Sons, New.

townards, Co. Down. The flowers were quita
the largest shown, and were remarkably
fresh and bright. May-flowering and Cot-
tage varieties predominated, but flowers of most
types were represented in the group. Among
the " Darwins " may be mentioned Enchantress,
with flower of salmon colour, shaded with pale
terra-cotta; Gold Vase, a finely-formed flower,
large, with gold tint flushed with deeper bror.re ;
Europe, a fine scarlet flower, with pleasing
white base; Paliza, bright rose; Minister Roeli,
very handsome flower, bright red ; Melicette,
pale mauve ; and Nauticus. The May-flower-
ing varieties were no less beautiful, and
included such fine things as N. F. Barnes, a
feathered variety on a fawn ground ; Isabella,
yellow flushed with rose ; Inglescombe Pink,
one of the best varieties ; Didieri alba, a good;
white flower, although not over large in size,
&c. (Silver Gilt Medal. 1

Messrs. Hogg and Robertson, Ltd., 22,.
Mary Street, Dublin, staged over 100 varieties,
and species of Tulips, among which were seen
most of the best varieties in the Cottage and
Darwin sections, and some good specimens of
the old florists' type. Zomerschoon is a Cottage
Tulip of exquisite colouring, the ground shade
being rose-red, with feathering of yellow. The>
yellow Gesneriana Mrs. Moon, is of richest
yellow, and the flower is long with pointed
segments. Europe, a Darwin variety, has a
perfectly-formed cup, with petals of a dazzling
rose-scarlet shade. Dawn is also of this class ;
it is a massive flower, rose-salmon in colour,
shading to a lighter margin. (Large Silver
Medal.)

Messrs. Bare & Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, London, staged an extensive collec-
tion. Tho flowers were not of large size, but
they were refined and clear in colour. Prorni-
nent in the centre of the display were flowers of
the old florists' type, bizarres, bybloemens, and
sells, some vases of the old Dr. Harvey being
especially noteworthy. Among the larger Cot-
tage and Darwin sections were Cyclops, Ingles-
combe Yellow, &c. (Silver Gilt Medal.)

Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Floral Farms,
Wisbech, staged a good display, all of the
Cottage and Darwin types, save a few of the
showy Parrot varieties. They appeared to b<3
later grown than those of the other exhibitors,
and were in concequenc© fresher and brighter
in appearance, while some of the vases con-
tained flowers of remarkable vigour and sub-
stance. They had La Aferveille in fine form,
and the beautiful Mrs. Farncombe Saunders, a
large well-formed flower of bright crimson-
scarlet. Mad. Krelage, Beethoven, a grand flovrer
of rosy-salmon shade, &c. (Gold Medal.)

W. L. Whale.— On the 21st inst., this gardener
died suddenly as the result of an accident with
his bicycle on the previous evening. A foot-
passenger having ran against him, he was thrown
on his head. He was principal foreman at Belvoir
Castle Gardens, where he had lived five years,
and was highly respected by everyone who knew
him. Previously deceased was engaged at the
Dell Gardens, Englefield Green ; Byrkley Lodge
Gardens, Burton-on-Trent, and other gardens.
WH.D.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Ants in Lawns: F. L. The casts can easily be
levelled by rolling or by sweeping with a stiff
besom. To destroy the ants pour a table-
spoonful of bisulphide of carbon into holes-
made 6 inches deep and a foot apart, the
holes to be filled with soil immediately after the
fluid is poured in. You must remember that
bisulphide of carbon is highly inflammable, so
that no flame or spark must be allowed to come
near it.

Asters : Crunet. The roots appear to have damped
off. See that the drainage is good, and do not
afford water too frequently. Asters frequently
suffer from attacks of wireworm, but the
specimens received do not show indications of
this pest, nor of eelworms. If the plants

•3'JO

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[May 26, 1906.

continue to fail, kindly send fresli specimens,
and in the meantime we will examine those
already received for si^ns of fungus.
Books: A. W. The best book ol the kind we
know is The Book o) the Farm, hy Henry Stephens.
■ revised by James MacDonald. This 4th edition
was published in six volumes by Messrs. William
Blackwood & Sons, Edinburgh and London,
in 1889. This book deals thoroughly with every
important detail in connection with the manage-
ment of a farm. A smaller book in one volume
is Elements of Agriculture, by W. Fream, L.L.D.,
published by John Murray, Albemarle Street,
London, in 1892. pricetwo shillings and sixpence.
In the event of your not being able to get the
more expensive work, this latter book will be
very helpful in the matters you mention.
Calceolaria mexicana : F.G.B.. S.W.F., and
W. E. W. This is an annual plant and a true
species. You will find the name in the Index
Ketmisis and in the Kew Hand List of Herbaeeous
Plants. We believe that some of our corres-
pondents have not got the correct species, and
shall be glad, therefore, if they will send us
specimens" as soon as the plants flower, which
they do generally in June and July.
Cankek in Apple Trees; G. A. This injury is
caused by a fungus, the growth of which is
fostered by planting the trees in unsuitable soils
and Localities. Under the best cultivation,
canker is not so prevalent as when less care is
exercised. It is essential to select a good posi-
tion when planting, one that is sheltered from
the east winds if possible, for these are apt to
cause the bark to crack ; and if the natural
drainage is not perfect, artificial drainage must
be resorted to. Do not allow the roots to get
down into a cold, unsuitable sub-soil, but
encourage them by applying rich top-dressings
to remain in the warmer layer of soil near to the
surface which is under the good influences of
air and sunshine. By such attention to the
roots, and proper cultivation of the branches by
summer pruning, &c., you will not need to
prune the trees severely with the knife in winter,
and this circumstance will be helpful in trying
to keep down the scourge of canker. However,
when all has been done that is possible, it will
be found that certain varieties of Apples will
remain liable to canker in certain districts, there-
fore, take pains to ascertain what varieties will
thrive best in your own neighbourhood and give
them preference.
Choicest Flowers : B. We cannot pretend
to say yl) what are the choicest flowers,
(2) where they are grown, (3) in private es-
tablishments, at Hampton Court, or in Kew
Gardens, and (4) whether they are to be seen at
the Temple Show ? We think you need not
concern yourself with questions numbered 2,
3, and 4, until you have settled to the satis-
faction of yourself and others what is the
correct answer to number 1. For ourselves we
are quite unable to settle the first problem, but
if we may give you, also A. and B., a little
advice, it would be to visit Kew and Hampton
Court as often as possible, as there is much to be
learnt at both places, particularly at Kew. Take
the opportunity also to inspect a good private
establishment as often as it presents itself, and
under no circumstances neglect to come to the
Temple Show, for at such an exhibition a
gardener may learn much that it is impossible
to study in his own garden. For some further
remarks upon the cultivation of plants at Kew
we refer you to Gardeners' Chronicle, February
24, 1906, p. 128.
Chrysanthemums: Chrysanth. (1) Syringe the
plants with tobacco water, (2) or dip the points
of the shoots into the liquid, (3) or, whilst the
plants are small, place them in a low pit or
house and vaporise them with the XL-All
or the Campbell \'aporiser.
Correction : On p. 313. in note on the recent

eruption of Vesuvius, for coal read cool ashes.
Equivalent for Bothy Accommodation : H.,
Cohhani. We are unable to lay down any fixed
rule in respect to what should be considered a
fair equivalent for bothy accommodation. As
you have recently built a bothy, and intend
that the young men shall henceforth live
rent free in this building, it is doubtless a
convenient time to consider the question
of wages. But before you decide upon the
exact amount you will deduct from the wages
previously given these men, it would, in our
opinion, be necessary to ascertain (1) whether
under the new conditions the men will be

required to work longer hours than formerly,
(2) or to take night or Sunday "duty" from
which formerly they were exempt, (3) what
amount of money the men have been in the habit
of paying for lodgings in the particular district ?
As we are unable to accept responsibility
for settling these questions it may be pointed
out that The British Gardeners' Association
state in their ■ ■ Recommendations ' ' that journey-
men should be paid "not less than 18s. per
week with bothy, and 21s. without bothy, and
foremen 21s. with bothy or 27s. without bothy."
Such a recommendation which errs on the side
of too great moderation shows that the asso-
ciation regards the equivalent for average bothy
accommodation throughout the country as equal
to three shillings per week.
Gardeners' Wages : J.L. If the circumstances
be what you imagine them to be, the manager
having exceeded his instructions would be open
to blame, but we do not know that dishonesty
could be proved.
Gloxinias: H. D. S If you do not want the
plants to flower so soon, you had better remove
them to a slightly cooler atmosphere, and pinch
out the flower buds as they appear. Even then
the plants will not continue to produce buds
for a great length of time, and it would have
been better to be prepared with succession
plants, either seedlings or old plants brought
forward very gradually.
Moths in CarnatIon House: G.U'.R. The
moth you sent is a specimen of the "large
yellow-underwing moth " (Triphsena pronuba).
Like all other moths it lays eggs from which
caterpillars are hatched, they when fully
grown become chrysalides in the earth, from
which in due course the moths emerge. The
caterpillars are among those which are known
as "surface caterpillars," as they generally
feed near the surface of the ground, attacking
the plants at the collar, or just below it, They
usually feed at night, hiding dur'ing the day
under stones, clods, or in cracks in the soil
Many of them may be trapped by laying
pieces of slate, tiles, bricks, boards, turf, &c.,
about where these caterpillars are, as they
will hide under such things when their nightly
rambles are over. These traps should be
examined every morning, or they may be
caught at work at night by searching for them
with a lantern. Fresh soot, or a mixture of
three parts finely powdered lime, and one part
fresh soot, scattered freely round the plants,
and chopped in with a hoe is useful in keepirg
the caterpillars oft.
Names of Plants: D. C. C. 1, a Nasturtium;
2, Sisymbrium officinale ; 3, Arenaria trinervis ;
4, Stellaria media; 5, Vicia cracca. Another
time please send better specimens. We have no
time to spare in unravelling such enigmas. —
/. iV. 1, Genista hispanica ; 2, Prunus Padus.
— /. W. N. Prunus Padus, the Bird Cherry. —
IK. P. 1, Brunfelsia (Franciscea eximia) ; 2,
Davallia affinis.— C. M. McDonald. 1 and 2,
Amelanchier canadensis ; 3, probably A. vul-
garis.—L. Boell Phinder. — 1, Pyrus auricularis ;

2, Cratsegus sp. Send specimen when in
flower.— £.C.C. D, Salvia Verbenaca.— i?.//.
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Send the Japanese Maples
to some nurseryman who makes a speci-
ality of them ; 6, Cytisus (next week) ; 7,
Coronilla Emerus ; 8, Piptanthus nepalensis.
— M. L. Both forms of Prunus Padus.—
/. A . We cannot name the variety of Azalea
for certain, perhaps one of the hybrids oi
Rhododendron indicum (Azalea obtusa). — G.
W. l,Pteris tremula ; 2, Asplenium lucidum ;

3. Cyrtomiumfalcatum.^. C.,i3»Hifcn-/0H. Den-
droViium pulchellum, commonly called Den-
drobium Dalhousieanum in gardens. It is a
common species of no special value. — ]. C. 1,
Selenipedium longifolium (Cypripedium), a very
free-growing, shady, warm greenhouse, or con-
servatory plant ; 2, Passiflora racemosa. — H. C,
Kilkenny. La;liapurpurata.— .^. M., Do'i'v. Pro-
bably Hypochoeris radicata. — W. H. Lonicera
Ledebouri. — H'. 5. 1, Lychnis dioica, double
flowered form ; 2, Spiraea hypericifolia.

Nectarines: R. L. The fruits are just approach-
ing the " stoning " stage, and they will remain
of the same size until the formatioa of the shell
over the seed has been completed. If they are
shrivelling mucli. this condition would indicate
that the formation of the "stones" is not
progressing normally. Do not excite the trees
by applying much fire heat to the structure
in which they are growing, but afford con-

siderable ventilation when the condition of the
weather renders this practicable. Examine the
border to see if the soil is in a proper condition
of moisture. If the fruits subsequently prove to
have "stoned" badly this season, let some
old lime or mortar rubble be forked into the
soil during next autumn.
Protection of Fruit Blossoms by means of
"Smudges" produced by the burning of
OIL : R. B. R. A note on this subject as
applying to California was published in our last
issue, p. 313, and further details will be given
next week.
Rose Sawfly ; SO. We print your letter : "The
first serious appearance of this maggot here was
noticed about three years ago, when a bed of the
red Rose, General Jacquiminot, was covered
over with glass. The trees were old cut-backs,
but they grew remarkably well, and formed fine
long shoots, with every prospect of affording a
good crop of Roses, but on the tip of each
shoot where a flower bud was appearing a little
black speck or two appeared. This black matter
increased, the bud that was forming disappeared,
and the top of the shoot began to shrivel up.
On breaking the top off the shoot it was found
to be hollow, and at the depth of from one to
three inches was found a white maggot which
had been feeding on the sap, so that there was
only the outer casing of the shoot holding it up.
Ninety per cent, of the shoots suffered in this
way, so that the crop was a failure. In two
other houses where the same variety of Rose
was cultivated, but which is now planted with
the varieties Liberty and Abel Chatenay, the
plants are served in the, same way. Other
houses of Roses are scarcely touched. This
maggot is hatched on the outside of the bud,
or shoot, and is found to be exceedingly
minute. Sometimes the insect starts down the
stem where a leaf joins the stem ; the result is
just the same, it bores its way into the stem and
hollows it out for two or three inches. We have
every other form of Rose pest, but we can
manage to keep these in check, but no funii-
gant, used ever so strong, seems to hurt this one,
and hand-picking is out of the question, as the
maggot is invisible to the naked eye, and has
bored its way into the sap, or bud, before even
it is suspected. What lays this maggot ? What-
ever it is, it does not appear until the end of
April and in May, so the first growth escapes
injury. Is the egg layer the jumper enclosed in
tin box?" The shoots of your roses are
attacked by one of the grubs of the " Sawflies"
(limphyluscinctus). Insecticides are of no use
111 dealing with this insect, unless they could
be employed just when the sawflies are wishing
to lay their eggs, when spraying the bushes
with paraffin emulsion would be useful in
keeping them off. We do not see why hand-
picking should be out of the question. If
you examine the shoots you will find that the
part which the grub has bored is slightly
thicker than the test of the shoot, and is some-
what transparent ; that the leaves above the
injured part are begining to fade, and the
shoots if pulled easily bend double at that
part. A very little practice would soon enable
you to detect the injured shoots, which should
be cut off below the injury and burnt. We
cannot suggest any other remedy. The
"Jumper," more commonly called a "click,
or skip-jack beetle," belongs to the family
Elateridje, and has nothing to do with the
rose pest ; it is the parent of one of the " wire-
worms."
Royal Horticultural Society's Examination :
A . H. Write to the secretary of the society, at
the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square,
Westminster.-
Vines : F. H. The warts on your leaves are due
to deficient ventilation and excess of heat or
moisture, or both. Admit more air into the house
and the trouble will probably cease.

Communications Received.— G.B.D.~R M.-F.M.—M. de
v., Paris.— J.M.H., many thanks.— A. Cogniaux, Nivelles.
with many thanlis.— T.E.S.-J.V. & Sons.— W.M.\V.—
H G.C.— A.C.H.— G.T.M., many thanks.— E.M.K.—de
B C— B.D.J.-C.W.D.— E.S.G.— E.T.C.— A.C. Harris.—
1. Garlaiui-W. J. B.-O. G.— J. T. B. P.-J. J. D. J.— Dr.
bammer, Berlin— Herr Ernst Ladenbure. Frankfurt-.i-M.
— W ]. B.— W. Penrose Atkinson— W. G. S.— S. W. F.—
J. c.— W. E. I^— G. M.— A. W.— W. H. D.— Jesse S.—
Penrose Brothers- H. M. Veitch— W. .\. Cook— Quintin
Read— M., Kelso— T. R. P., Lilbourne— M. P.— J. G.— E.
Horton— R. L. (the Nectarines h.ave notarrived)~E. H. W.
— E. H. J.-Rov. Hort. Soc.-H. W.- F. W. C.-S. S.—
\V. il. D.— R. t; Hesketh— C. S. & Co., Ltd.— H. H. Smitli.
For Market Reports, see page x.

z

u

Q

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X

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June 2, 1E06.]-

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

33i

THE.

^iirbcncrs'CbronixIc

A'o. 1,07'!.— SATURDAY, June 2, JS06.

CONTENTS.

Apple grafted on Haw-
thorn

Books, notices of —
Studio Year Book of
Decorative Art

Burbidge, F. W., pro-

fjosed memorial to the
ate

Cabbages, spring

Chinese note-book,
leaves from my

Cucumber, a good early
variety of

Cypripedium tibeticum

Daffodils in Ireland ...

Davidia involucrata ...

Dendromecon rigidum..

Dcutzia crenata..

Kvents of the week

Flower Shows at Bir-
mingham

Flowers in season

Gardeners' Benevolent
Institution

Killerton, Devon

347

312

Market gardening
Odontoglossum crispum

G. W. Law-Schofield.
Odontoglossum crispum,

variation in

Orchids, a sale of
Rubber cultivation in

Africa

Small holdings

" Smudges " for pro-
tecting fruit blossoms
Societies —

Royal Horticultural ...

Tecoma Brycei

Temple Flower Sliow ...
Vesuvius, eruption of,

and plants
Week's Work, the—

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ..

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ..

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...

35G

339

337
345

35G

MS

31-1
3-13

343
343
342
342
343
343

plants beVonging^ ir-ostly to the Apocynaceae.
Gutta Percha and Balata, nearly allied but
chemically different products, are derived
from certain trees of the order Sapotacea?.

In some cases the supplies are obtained by
tappinij^ the trees in the forests and collectin.f^
the juice, or by pounding and grinding- the
rootstocks of the creepers. So great is the
demand that the necessity of some system
of forest-conservan<:y has become impera-
tively necessary, and, in addition to this, our
tropical colonies are vicing with each other
hi the collection and cultivation of the pre-
cious rubber-producing trees. In this mat-
ter Kew has rendered service, and tl->e Colo-
nial Botanic Gardens within the tropics have
taken up the matter with zeal arvd energy.

It is not long since we had occasion
to notice the elaborate work of Messrs.
De Wildeman and Louis Gentil, of Brus-
sels, on the Lianes CaoittcJwntiferes of
the Congo State. That book contains
a full account of the climbing planis or

ILLUSTRATIONS.

African natives, a group of, engaged in the preparation

of rubber ... 337

Cypripedium tibeticum 347

Davidia involucrata, a showy-tiowering hardy tree .. 346

Dendromecon rigidum 341

Deutzia crenata, variety Watereri 340

<iall, the Currant or Grape, of Oaks ... 356

Hippeastrum " Madder Rose " 345

Odontoglossum crispum G. VV. Law-Schofield ... ... 339

Odontoglossum crispum " Leonard Perfect " ... 348-349
Tecoma Brycei. a new species from Mashonalanil
(Supplementary Illustration).

A'iiis Henryana, an ornamental vine 354

Wright, S. T., portrait of 348

CULTIVATION OF AFRICAN
RUBBER.

WELL within the memory of many still
livini:;', almost the only use made of
" India-rubber " was for the purpose
of erasing- pencil-marks. .'\t that time
small pieces were sold at a relatively high
price by stationers. Since then, the uses to
which this substance is put have enormously
increased. The demnnd has become propor-
tionatelv great, althojgh many thousands of
tons are now imported annually. Everything
points to a still greater demand, and
botanists, merchants, and manufacturers are
exerting themselves to the utmost to extend
and develop the sources of supply. The pre-
cious juice, the " latex " of the botanists, is
found in all milky-juiced ])iants, and these
are of very varied aflinity. Not all, however,
are capable of being turned to practical ac-
count, so that here the botanist has an oppor-
tunity of showing that his researches and ob-
servations may, and do, have a direct prac-
tical value, just as was the case with cotton,
tea, cinchona, and other products.

The india-rubber of commerce is yielded by
species of Hevea, Manihot (Euphorbiacece),
Castilloa, and Ficus (.'VrtocarpaceaB), all of
which are trees of arborescent habit,
whilst other supplies are obtained from the
stems or roststocks of various climbing

rubber-producing trees and " vines." The
Lagos silk-rubber tree Funtumia elastica
(Apocynaceas) has been discovered wild in the
forests of Uganda. So important a discovery
led to the appointment of Mr. M. T. Dawe
to undertake a botanical mission 1:0 the forest
districts of Buddu and the Western and Nile
provinces of the Uganda Protectorate from
Buddu to Gondokoro. This was accom-
plished in 1905, and the results are published
in a Blue Book on the Economic Resources
of Uganda, presented to both Houses of
Parliament in April of this year, and to be had
from Wyman and Sons, Fetter Lane, or from
any bookseller. On his return to England,
Mr. Dawe spent some time in arranging his
collections, and acknowledges the assistance
he has received in the determination of his
plants from members of the Herbarium staff
at Kew. Details are given m the report
before us of the vegetation of the districts he
passed through and the various timber trees
and other useful plants rr.et with bv the

[Pli.?:o by M. T. Daw!.

Fig. 133.— AFRICAN NATIVES CUTTING UP SPONTANEOUSLY COAGULATED RUBBER
PRODUCED BV LANDOLPHIA D.-VWEI.

lianes bearing Caoutchouc, in the Congo ter-
ritory, mostly species of Landolphia, Carpo-
dinus, and Clitandra — all .-Xpocynaceous
genera. The plants are not onlv described
and figured, but full details as to the most
suitable methods of cultivation and propaga-
tion of the plants are given, together with
information concerning the collection and
preparation of the rubber. How requisite it
is that the cultivator should take counsel with
the botanist is shown by the large number of
species of the same general appearance as
the useful ones, but whose juice is, for
various reasons, useless. The discriminating
powers of the botanist are here called into
plav in enabling the collector or the culti-
vator fro distinguish between those that are
useful and those that are valueless. One
section of the work of Messrs. De Wildeman
and Gentil is devoted to this important sub-
ject.

Our own .African territories abutting on
the Victoria Nyanza on one side and the
Congolese State on the other are also rich in

explorer. Here, again, it is curious to note
the existence of many useless species in the
same country with those that are serviceable.
.Amongst these latter is a new species, callea
by Dr. Stapf, Landolphia Dawei, which
affords a first-class rubber. Of this species,
M. Chevalier, as quoted in the India-Rubher
Journal, says that it is of all rubber-creepers
at present known that which grows the most
rapidly, gives the greatest quantity of rubber,
and yields latex which is the most easy to
coagulate into elastic rubber of the first
quality. Doubtless, in the Straits Settle-
ments, where the rainfall is practically con-
tinuous, this plant wcyjld succeed. This
species has also been found cultivated in the
Island of San Thom(5 in Portuguese West
Africa, whither it may have been introduced.
A valuable timber tree, Podocarpus milan-
janus var. arboreseens, was also found, to-
gether with a tree producing a fragrant wood
like Sandal wood. This has been named by
Sprague, Dawea ugandensis, and forms a
new genus of Bixaceae.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 2, 1906.

We must refer the reader for the de-
tails of Mr. Dawe's wanderings and an ac-
count of the plants he met with to the Blue
Book before mentioned, as they are too
numerous to be more ihnn mentioned here.

The Ruwenzori mountains, the vegetation
of which had been previously made known to
us by Mr. Scott Elliot, afford, owing to their
great height, a very interesting flora. At
9,000 feet, the flora has many British repre-
sentatives. Here a new Cyrtanthus, C. cyr-
tanthiflorus of Wright, was discovered, and it
is now in cultivation at Kew. Arborescent
heaths suggest a former connection with the
Cape, as they are not now found in the inter-
vening country. Handsome Lobelias occur
from I2,ooo feet to the level of the glaciers,
together with tree Senccios and Hclichry-
sums.

The greater part of ihc district of Unvoro
is, we are told, admirably suited for the cul-
tivation of Cotton.

The author narrates his adventures with
wild elephants, his attack of malarial fever,
his dealings with the natives, some of whom
have cannibal propensities, and affords such
a mass of interestin;^ and useful information
that we can but hope that it will be published
in a more convenient form than a Blue Book
offers. .Such a treasury of information
.should not be hidden in such a publication.
Three plates illustrate various species of
Landolphia and pLmtumia, together with a
map of the route followed by the author.

A complete list of the plants collected is
given in an appendix. We could have
wished that a list of the rubber-producing
and other economic plants had been given
separately. It is obvious that there are an
unusual number of them, and some are
probably of great importance, but it is not
altogether easy to pick them out from the
" solid " pages of a Blue Book.

The illustration, for which we arc indebted
to Mr. Dawe, shows a native in the act of
cutting up a lump of rubber that had coagu-
lated spontaneously after being left one night
in a pot. This was taken by Mr. Dawe on
the same day that he discovered the Lan-
dolphia Dawei in Uganda.

VARIATION IN ODONTOGLOSSUM
CRISPUM.

I HAVE long been considering the sectional dis-
tinctions of the enormous number of named
varieties of this species. Kvery year they be-
come more linked up by the appearance of new
forms of this comple.x plant, for since the
gigantic importations of recent years from newer
districts, the variation m the spotting is seen to
be more marked and in itself more varied than it
was in the 'eighties ?.nd early 'nineties. This
has resulted from spotted forms coming from the
district where O. Hunnewellianum and O.
triumphans represent the brown and yellow
species that are the equivalents of O. luteo-
purpureum and of O. gloriosum in the " Pacho "
districts.

Primarily, the districts themselves from which
the plants come are widely separated and can
be sectionised, for Fusagasuga, La Vega, Pacho,
San Cayetano, Chiquinquira, and Velez are all
far enough apart to constitute ample difference
in the general type of the crispums from each
place, resulting from natural circumstances. I
take these names as indicating the districts,
but, of course, the area is much larger than is
ordinarily implied by the name of the town
more or less its centre.

It is easier to commence by clearing away the

negatives first, and so Pacho may at once be
written off as a crispum-producing area to-day ;
but it has two extended ends: to its S.W., La
Vega, which sends its supplies to Facatativa,
and to its N.E., San Cayetano. From both
these districts come fine forms of crispum, agree-
ing in all respects with the grand, heavy flowers
known in the 'seventies and early 'eighties as
"O'Reilly's" and St. .41bans varieties, which
produced such fine round flowers as " The
Uuchtss," for which Sir Trevor Lawrence paid on
Nov. 16, 1882, 40 gs. for " half the plant"; apia-
tum, whose history is already well known; Bal-
lantinei, Hrybyanum (by the way, where is this
fine thing now?), Sanderianum, Thorapsoni-
anum, Veitchianum, and Baroness Schroder.
The crispums emanating from this district that
have too large a proportion of luteo-purpureum
influence in them to permit them to be called
true crispums are Alpha, Cooksonianum, Eve-
lina, nobilius, pardalinum, Princess Christian,
Schroderianum, Stevensi, The Earl, Wolsten-
holmi.x".

La Vega has carried on the high character of
Pacho, and produced such fine forms as Cook-
soniae, Franz Masereel, Pittianum, and Sera-
phim.

San Cayetano has done its share also in fur-
nishing Abner Hassall, de Barri, Persimmon
and Donovan.

When we get to Chiquinquira the type of
crispum pure and simple becomes quite
changed ; the numerous spotted varieties are
not of such grand form and size as those
above mentioned, but occasionally among
them comes a really fine massive bloom.
This is very difficult to account for on natural
lines, but there are many ways that suggest
themselves to an expert in these matters. In
this district the innumerable forms of Adrianse
appear, and, of course, the continual intercross-
ing by the agency of insects has produced such
an interminable chain of links that it has become
difficult to say what is crispum and what is
Adrianae, for each has many points in common
w-ith the other. Scores of "yellow crispums"
appear in these importations, but the yellow
disappears in a few days, leaving a dirty white,
sometimes called " creamy," sometimes not even
the dirty white. There can be no doubt that a
crispum having yellow in it, even though fugi-
tive, cannot be a crispum pure and simple. It
is impossible for a crispum to possess the attri-
butes of the various species growing with it and
be a true crispum at the same time. This
statement has a direct bearing unon many
varieties called crispum, but which are no doubt
crosses between a crispum and an Adrianae.

It is hardly worth while wasting time in dis-
cussing the crispums from Velez ; it will suffice
to say they are small and worthless. No one
who has any regard for his reputation or the
satisfaction of his clients ever sends them out of
the district.

The five brown and yellow species are
grouped differently in the various districts. I,
therefore, give a comparative synopsis, arrang-
ing them in the order of their preponderance : —
Fusagasuga ; Lindleyanum gloriosum luteo-pur.
pureum ; Pacho, gloriosum, Lindleyanum luteo-
purpureum; Chiquinquira, Hunnewellianum
triumphans, Lindleyanum gloriosum luteo-
purpureum. It is manifestly impossible to say
these are exactly relative quantities, but they
are roughly correct, it being also inferentially
proved by the hybrids resulting from the im-
portations.

There is one other factor in Nature's creation
of blotched crispums which may have played a
very important part ; that is the variety
roseum. The prevalence of roseum is greatest
at San Cayetano, becomes less at Fusagasuga,
Pacho, La Vega, Chiquinquira, and least at
Velez.

In " Pacho " and " Fusagasuga " days we had
only crispums which at times showed characters
of luteo-purpureum or gloriosum or Lindley-
anum. Alpha, Stevensi, Cooksonianum, leo-

pardinum have evidence of luteo-purpureum ;
the last has so much in it that it is an
admitted Wilckeanum, and Stevensi will ere
long be so called, and I doubt not that the
hybridist will prove several others to be in the
same category.

When Chiquinquira was drawn upon, the in-
numerable varieties began to appear, and that
complex thing, a spotted crispum, spread out in
all directions towards the five brown and yellow
species that grow among it in this large district.
Adrianse caught us napping, or, rather, not
awake, and when " loochristiense " came we did
not quite understand it, though we did not all
consider it an "excellens." Thenceforward
scores of spotted forms kept cropping up,
ranging over a wide area of variation and
arrangement of markings. It is quite easy m
the clearest of these to recognise their descent
by the differences of coloration, the shape and
position of the spots.

In this group there are great numbers of so-
called crispums that I have not a shadow of a
doubt are crosses between crispum and Adrianae ;
they will ultimately be relegated to O. Fas-
cinator, which has been raised artificially. They
comprise Ami Charles, Kegeljani, tesselatum,
Whateleyae, Confetti, Duke of York, Prebendary
Bevan, The Kaiser, besides many named forms
in collections.

It will be seen that in the above "crispums" of
each section I have mostly named those certified
by the Royal Horticultural Society, as they are
more widely known, and also because they have
had their portraits painted for that Society's col-
lection, and are therefore easy of reference ;
but there are many more that could be added,
though the above suffice, and their origin as to
district is in most cases indisputably known to
the writer.

At the present time the evidence shown by the
garden-hybrids has not thrown very much light
upon the imported plants, but as more results
bloom, the facts will become clearer, and in
most cases there will be but little doubt left.

O. Fascinator (crispum x Adrianae) raised
by Mr. Charlesworth, and O. Stewartianum
(Andersonianum x crispum heliotropium)
raised by Mr. Stewart, have already proved the
Adrianajs and Andersonianums that looked
much like crispums to be crosses between the
hybrid and the parent species, and many others
will follow to add further proof hereon, as well
as in analogous cases.

It has already become very difficult to lay
down a hard-and-fast rule, and when experts
disagree, who can decide whether a plant is
a crispum or an Adrians or a crispumish
Adrianae, otherwise now a Fascinator.

I have known a discussion arise as to the
status of a plant when experts disagreed as to
whether it was a garden hybrid or an imported
plant, and also whether it was a crispum or a
hybrid. I have long since placed many varieties
in this section ; now we have absolute proof of
it. The same remarks apply to Andersonianum
and Coradinei, among which despised hybrids
there are a few that are fine ones ; these, no
doubt, are the result of blotched crispums
crossed with the original hybrid.

The following varieties of Andersonianum may
bo separated as " Stewartianums " : — Bogaerdi-
anum, Crawshayanum, obstupefaciens, PoUetti-
anum, Youngianum.

The varieties of Coradinei that come under
this rule are: — Crawshayanum, mirabile, Mrs.
de B. Crawshay, and Theodora. I mention this
last variety in my own collection, though it has
not yet been shown, but those who have seen
it pronounce it indisputably a cross between a
blotched crispum and O. Coradinei, and as it
bears distinct evidence, I quote it in support of
my argument.

Reviewing the matter quite dispassionately, I
do not think that things are as clear as they
would be if all w-ould do their best to clear the
air of many doubts, to use no stronger word.
de B. Crawshay.

Tune 2, 190G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

)39

ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM
G. W. LAW-SCHOFIELD.

A FLOWER of this handsome variety and a
.photograph of natural size (see fig. 134) has been
sent by G. W. Law-Schofield, Esq., New Hall
Hey, Rawtenstall, Manchester (gr. Mr. Shill).
It is certainly one of the finest forms of this
favourite class. All the segments are broad, the
sepals and petals being nearly equal. The se-
pals are white, slightly tinged with purple aiid
bearing several large purplish-red blotches. The
petals are white, fringed, with one large, irregu-
lar purplish-red blotch equal to half the area, and
two or three smaller ones nearer the white base_
which also has a few short purple lines near
the column. The crirapled lip is of a chestnut-
brown colour, with yellow crest and white
fringed margin, whilst the column is coloured
purple on the upper side. The reverse of the
flower shows the purplish blotching almost as
bright as on the face. /. 0. 'B.

KILLERTON REVISITED.

In the Gardeners' Chronicle for November 28
and December 5, 1903, pp. 363 and 386 respec-
tively, I described some of the attractions of
Killerton, the Devonshire seat of Sir T. D.
Acland, Bart My visit was then made in
August, and, judging by what one then saw, it
was clear that the place would be a paradise of
:-pring flowers at the present season of the year,
more especially as Mr. Coutts, the head gar-
dener, had then on hand the transformation of
an old stone quarry into a rock garden, and the
two and a half years or more that have elapsed
have produced a splendid result. As I stated
in 1903, the site for a rockery was most appro-
priate, not only from the rocky nature of the
ground itself, which is a characteristic of many
localities in Devonshire, where the stones may
be seen protruding, so to speak, through the
grass, in masses ot various sizes, but also from
the nature of the surroundings. The base of
the rockery is on a gentle slope, from which it
rises rather abruptly to a considerable height—
roughly, to 40 or 50 feet, forming a kind of
amphitheatre, with winding paths unseen from
below ; but which form a means for the more
close examination of the plants, with which, at
the present time, it is fairly well clothed, though
there is plenty of reserved space for further
additions. From below, these spaces are
scarcely apparent. The appearance of the masses
of colour formed by such plants as Lithosper-
mum prostratum, the brilliant blue of which is
■only equalled by some of the Gentians, is note-
worthy. Even in the Gentians it is not produced
so abundantly, though in the lower part of the
rockery there were fine masses of Gentiana verna
and G. acaulis, two of the most beautiful species
for rockwork. Another mass of blue, high up,
and very attractive, was formed by Mertensia
lanceolata, a lovely plant, a native of the Rocky
Mountains, sometimes described as M. alpina.
Further on a mass of bright yellow attracts at-
tention, which, upon closar examination, we
find is produced by Alyssum montanum. The
eye is next attracted to a fine clump of glowing
red colour, produced by a double-flowered Rock
Rose (Helianthemum). Amongst other plants
■equally attractive, though perhaps not so im-
posing at a distance, may be mentioned Om-
phalodes verna, with its blue flowers, very like
those of a Forget-me-not, Crinodendron
Hooteri, a Chilian plant belonging to the
Tiliaceas, "" bearing numerous rose-coloured
lowers, Daphne cneorum, with its profusion
of rosy-lilac flowers, and its ally, the well-
inowii Daphne Blaga>ana, the dwarf, shrubby
iabit of which makes it very suitable for a
lockwork on a large scale. The Aubrietias,

Otearias, Cinerarias, Antirrhinums, and varie-
ties of Phlox assisted to complete a charming
picture and an interesting collection of plants,
nor must we forget the beautiful little Veronica
repens, forming, as if does, a dense carpet
covered with its pale-blue flowers. A fine three-
year-old plant of Erica australis was also in
flower, as well as Rosa sericea, Rubus delicio-
sus, Cytisus incarnatus, and Primula denticu-
lata, which, we understood, had been in flower
all the winter. In a contiguous part of the gar-
den, where the plants are allowed to assume
much of their natural wildness, were planted
bushes, some C or more feet high, of Fuchsia
Riccartoni, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and such-

which have a fine colouration in autumn. Jas.
minum primulinum, with its brilliant, double,
yeilow flowers, Azara microphylla, Ipomaea
rubro-coerulea, Mutisia decurrens, which has
been 3J years in its present position, and bore
30 flowers last year, and promises to produce
100 blossoms this year. Abulia floribunda also
grows here, as well as A. triflora, which is a
remarkably fine and well-grown plant. Veronica
Hulkeana, which though described as a half
hardy plant, has stood in its present position
for the past three years ; Bridgesia spicata, a
remarkable, evergreen wall plant, clinging tena-
ciously by its curious suckers in the axils of the
leaves • Habrothamnus corallina was represented

Fig. Ij4.-

-ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM G. \V. i,AW-SCHOFIELD ;
WITH PURPLISH-RED BLOTCHES.

FLOWERS. WHITE

like flowering plants. One fine bush of Rho-
dodendron campanulatum was so completely
enveloped in flowers that no other portion ef
the plant was visible.

Another interesting series of plants at Killer-
ton are those of a climbing habit planted against
the south front of the house, many of which are
interesting, as showing their power of endur-
ance in the Devonshire climate throughout the
winter. Of these we may mention Lonicera
etrusca, the sweet-scented flowers of which are
purplish on the outside and yellow on the in-
side. Here also flourishes Pentstemon hetero-
phyllus, Carpenteria californica, Vitis Thun-
bergii, with its peculiar hsait-shaped leaves

by a fine plant in full flower ; and Uuddleia
Colvillei was about 15 feet high. Here was also
SoUya heterophylla, usually classsd as a green-
house climber, but planted here as an experi-
ment. Solanum crispum, with its bluish-purple
or lavender-coloured flowers, was very promi-
nent, growing to a considerable height The
very handsome South African leguminous plant,
.Sutherlandia frutescens, was planted here in the
hope that it would stand the mild Devonshire
winters. The well-known handsome climbing
Bignoniaceous plant, Eccremocarpus scaber,
flowers freely for a good part of the year. Of
other plants that do well at Killerton, and of
which fine specimens exist, may be mentioned

340

TFIE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June

1906.

Clianthus puniceus, represented by a very old
plant, with thick woody stems, growing freely
over an archway in a wall, and at the time of
ray visit it was covered with its peculiar deep-
red flowers. Near this, in a somewhat sheltered
corner, was a well-grown bush of Ribes specio-
sum, the bright green, shining leaves of which
were well set off by an abundant crop of its coral,
like pendent flowers. Lathyrus pubescens, with

DEUTZIA CRENATA.

Beautiful as the Deutzias undoubtedly are,
they are still amongst the most disappointing
of hardy flowering shrubs. This is because the
flowers are nearly always injured by late frosts.
The majority of the species are easily induced
into active growth by mild weather such as we
often get in early spring, in consequence of
which the flower buds fall an easy prey to the

Fig. 135. — DEUTZIA crenata var. watereri ; elowers white, tinged with

ROSE-PURPLE ON THE OUTSIDE OE THE PETALS.

its numerous pale-blue, Wistaria-like flowers,
was well represented both under glass and in
the open, showing its adaptability for either
treatment. Mr. Coutts has a strong belief in
the hardirtess of many plants in some localities
wheie they have hitherto been considered too
tender to be left cut of doors during the winter,
and he is to be commended for his attempt to
prove this. John R. Jackson, May si.

unseasonable frosts of late April and early May.
Deutzia crenata is, however, an exception. Of
all the species it is the most reliable, although
it even does not always escape.

It was the first of the Deutzias to be intro-
duced, having been imported from Japan about
eighty years ago. Ever since that time it has been
the most popular of the Deutzias, but, curiously
enough, it is more frequently met with under the

name of " scabra " than under its proper name.
The mistake appears to have been first made ia
the Botanical Register, in which, at t. 1,718, it is
figured as D. scabra. Fortunately, the true
D. scabra (a very different plant) has in recent
years been distributed from the Darmstadt
Botanic Garden. It has been in cultivation at
Kew for several years past, Mons. Maurice de
Vilraorin grows it at Les Barres, and it was
recently shown before the Royal Horticultural
Society at Westminster by Messrs. Paul and
Son.

Deutzia crenata is a bush growing 6 to 8 feet
high, forming a dense thicket of erect stems.
The leaves, of ovate-lanceolate shape and 3 to
4 inches long, are of a deep, opaque green,
finely toothed, and of a curiously rough, harsh
texture. The flowers appear in, an erect raceme
4 or 5 inches long, and in a good year are borne
in such profusion as to render this species one
of the most beautiful of June-flowering shrubs.
As regards the individual flowers, the species i.s
variable. There are both single and double-
flowered forms, and of the single forms, that
known as Watereri and shown in Fig. 135 is.
perhaps the best. The blossom is large, with
petals white inside but flushed with rosy lilac
on the outside. The double-flower forms —
florepleno, Wellsi, Pride of Rochester, etc. — are
either pure white or are tinged with rosy purple
outside the petals. All of them are beautiful.
The varieties with variegated leaves — punctata
and " foliis variegatis " — are not of much ac-
count ; there are, at any rate, better variegated
shrubs to be had.

These Deutzias like a good loamy soil and
an occasional mulching with rotted manure.
They should also be overhauled about every
other year with the pruning knife in order to
thin out the older stems, which are apt to
become crowded and worn out. W . J . B.

DENDROMECON RIGIDUM.

TKEE-poppiEsare scarce, and indeed the name is
hardly appropriate, for like the Romneya Coulteri
the plant is more shrubby than arborescent. In
any case it is a very attractive plant, as may
be judged from our illustration, fig. 136, taken
from a specimen exhibited lately at the Royal
Horticultural Society by Messrs. Ware. The
foliage is of a greyish-green colour, the petals
brilliant yellow. The plant is a native of Cali-
fornia, and is thus described in the Flora of
Caiifuriiia, i., p. 23 : —

" D. RiGlDUM, Bentham. A shrub 2 to 8 feet high, with
many slender branches and whitish bark ; leaves ovate to
linear ; lanceolate, 1 to 3 inches long, very acute or mucro-
nate, sessile or nearly so, twisted upon the base so as ta
become vertical, reticuiately veined, the margin rough or
denticulate ; flowers bright yellow, 1 to 3 inches in diameter,,
on pedicels 1 to 4 inches long ; capsules curved, attenuate
above into the short stout style, li to 21 inches long ; seeds
large, 14 lines long. Dry, rocky hills of the Coast Ranges
from San Diego to Clear Lake, most abundant south of
Point Conception, Santa Rosa Island, Harford. Very vari-
able in its foliage and in the size of the flowers, but all the
forms seem referable to a single species." — Trans. Hort.
Soc, 2 Ser., I. 401.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE

NOTE-BOOK.

A JOURNEY IN EASTERN TIBET.

(Continued from page 332.)

June 14th. — We spent the day resting and in-
vestigating this tiny out-of-the-world place of
Hokeou. The hamlet is walled in by steep
desolate-looking cliffs, with prayer-flags flut-
tering from seemingly inaccessible points.
Maize is cultivated, and Wheat and Barley were
in ear, strong proofs of an exceptional climate.
The Yalung Valley is similar to other river val-
leys of these regions in that it enjoys a re-
markably warm climate for its altitude, and
supports a xerophytic flora. The flora here-
abouts is similar to that of the Tung Valley

[JL.NE 2, 1906.

THE

GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Ul

described in Gardeners' Chronicle, January 127,
1906, p. 60, but no Opuntia occurs here. I
gathered two interesting Ros«s — R. Webbiana
and R. Soulieana — but nothing else. R. Sou'ile-
ana is a large straggling shrub, with the flowers
opening yellowish and changing to creamy-
white. It is a distinct-looking Rose, but not
very ornamental. '

The transport of brick-Tea across the river ap-
pears to be the sole occupation of the male
population of this miserable place. The local
petty official informed us that some 20,000 pack-
ages annually pass through here. The better-
■•classTea, and that destined beyond Litang, '^ all

was like would not be denied, so we
arranged an excursion in order to satisfy
it. l-eaving our inn at 7 o'clock, we were fer-
ried across the river in one of the large flat-
bottomed boats. The passage proved quite ex-
citing ; our boat turned round in the rapids and
careened in an alarming fashion, shipping a
couple of heavy waves. The ten men who
manned the ferry worked for all they were
worth, and we reached the opposite shore with
nothing worse than a drenching.

We made a steep descent to the chieftain's
house, where we found horses awaiting us.
The road descended to the bed of a torrent,

species of Ash were common. Rosa sericea anu
a species of Philadelphus — masses of whiie — •
enlivened the path. Lonicera spp., Zanthoxy
lum sp., and a Clematis were other plants of
interest. On Populus tremula X gathered a
species of Mistletoe.

Primula septemloba was fairly abundant on
most shady rocks, and growing with it 1 found
the lovely Isopyrum vaginatum, heretofore only
known from distant Sikkim. Amongst some loose
rocks 1 noted a curious species of Rhubarb with
finely dissected leaves ; unfortunately, it was
only in bud. The most interesting plant of
all, however, was a specie.-; of Rodgersia with

^^^Trr-r>

Fig. 136. — DENDKOMECOM RIGIDUM ; FLOWERS PRIMROSE YELLOW, rK.\GR.\N T. (For text see page 340.)

sewn up in raw hides. Most of the Tea is fer-
ried over in small skin coracles, for all the
world like those used by the ancient Britons at
the time of the Roman conquest ! The boatmen
were busy all day taking over this brick-Tea, and
at night fully 200 yak were quartered on the
opposite foreshore in readiness to take away the
Tea. The ordinary load of Tea for a yak is six
packages — three on either side, but occasionally
nine packages are carried by one yak.

June 15. — Hokeou is roughly 100 miles west
of Tatien-lu, and was our intended destination.
However,' my curiosity to see what the
country on the other side of the river

which we crossed. Bushes of Rosa Soulieana
and Bercheraia flavescens were comm.on.
About a mile from the chieftain's house the
torrent branches, and we ascended the branch
to the left. The valley quickly narrowed into
a wild ravine, perhaps a hundred yards broad,
with nearly vertical precipices clothed with forest.
The flora was rich and very interesting. Abies
Fargesii, Picea sp., Pinus sp., and the ever-green
prickly Oak formed the bulk of the forest. Wil-
lows, Cornus macrophylla, Populus tremula,
P. balsamifera, and two species of Maple
are very abundant in the bed of the ravine. A
large-growing species of Eucnymus and a

perfectly pinnate leaves. At first I took it for
a curious species of Polygonatum, but on find-
ing some plants in bud its identity became
evident. I brought away some roots and suc-
ceeded in getting them to England safely (see
Rodgersia sambucifolia in Gardeners' Chronicle,
February 24, 1906, p. 116). Another remarkable
plant collected was Clematis Soulei. This is a
lovely species with white flowers larger than
those of C. montana, and with foliage like that
of C. Flammula. Unfortunately, I was unable
to secure seed of this Clematis ; thus it, like
many other good things, remains for the next
collector who visits these wilds.

342

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June

I'JCS

The forest flora generally resembles that cf
the forest above Hokeou and below Orang-che,
but this ravine enjoys a more humid climate,
and consequently the vegetation is more luxu-
riant. The Conifers, Maples, and Poplars are
of huge size, and tne woodman's axe is seldom
heard in these forest-depths. Landslips are of
frequent occurrence, and the bed of the ravme
is strewn with debris. Huge trees lay rotting
in every direction. In the branches of the trees
we noted flocks of the small green parrot the
Chinese aie so fond of. Small grey squirrels
were vevy common, and among the rocks a slate-
coloured marmot occurs. We also saw a few
monkeys. These were of medium size, grey or
light brown in colour. Having journeyed as
far into the depth of the forest as our time ad-
mitted, we stopped, lit a fire, and had our
lunch. WTiilst engaged in this occupation a
heavy thunderstorm broke, and though we
crouched beneath the shelter of large trees, we
wese speedily wet through. Hailstone« of great
size fell, branches were twisted off the trees
and things looked dangerous. The torrent in-
creased in volume with astonishing rapidity,
and we began to think we should have much
difficulty in retracing our journey. Luckily the
storm did not last long, and nothing more
serious than a wetting happened to us.

We were very loth to turn our back on this
interesting and botanically-unknown region, but
prudence compelled us to hasten homewards.
Oil our return journey to Hokeou we had the
misfortune to encounter some 200 yak laden
with tea The path was very narrow, and we
had to climb up the rocks out of the way. A
yak lac'^en with tea is an awkward and ugly
beast to meet in a narrow path. On sighting
us they stood stock still and looked at us for
some minutes, then made a mad rush, carry-
ing everything before them. One unfortunate
beast collided with a rock and rolled over, com-
pletely blocking the path. Others coming up
tried to pass, and goted th>e fallen brute ; one got
rid of its load, which rolled down into the bed
of the stream, and galloped over the fallen
beast. Others followed, and trampled the fallen
yak well-nigh into jelly. Whilst all this was
going on I was standing on some rocks a few
feet above the road, expecting every minute
that the horse and myself woulj be knocked
down in the mad rush of the frightened yak.
Eventually some Tibetans came up and suc-
ceeded m calming the timid beasts, much to our
relief. We reached the Valung safely at dusk,
and having delighted the Tibetan chief and his
household with a few trifling presents for the
use of the horses, crossed the river to our inn.
The unsophisticated Tibetan is undoubtedly
a very decent leiow. Unfortunately, he is very
suspicious, timid, and avoids intercourse with
foreigners.

We could not secure transport for our return
journey, the animals we had on our outward
journey being too exhausted. There being no-
thing else for it, the military official comman-
deered oola for us from the local chief. Our
cola was changed at every chieftain's house,
sometimes we had yak, sometimes part yak
and part ponies. As we were unwilling to have
these animals for nothing, and the rupee was
the lowest coin current, we found the return
journey much more costly than the outward one.
We had a varied experience on our return
journey, reaching Tatien-lu safely on June liO,
after having experienced something of Tibet's
rigorous climate. On June 19 we crossed the
Cheh-to Pass, alt. 14,500 feet, in a blizzard of
snow and sleet. I shall never forget that day.
It was the hardest, roughest, and most exhaust-
ing one I experienced during the whole of my
five years' wandering in China. Nothing but
sleet, snow, and a strong biting wind the whole
day through. Our beards, eyebrows, mous-
tachfCs were a mass of ice; our garments were
frozen as stiff as boards. .Snow lay several
feet deep near the head of the pass, and but for a
path made by the fortunate passage of a herd

of yak wending westward, we should never
have found our way across the pass. As I look
back on that day I marvel that we were not all
frozen to death. As it was, several of the party
were badly frost-bitten, and all suffered from
snow-blindness. It was many weeks ere we
fully recovered from the effect of the passage of
the Cheh-to Pass on June 19, 1904.— £. //.
Wilson.

(To be continued.)

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

The Studio Year Book of Decorative Art.*

A BEAUTIFULLY got-up book, devoted especi-
ally to the application of art to the decoration
and general equipment of the dwelling-house.
The greater part of the volume does not speci-
ally concern us in these columns, though we can
but admire the beauty of the illustrations and
the excellence of the typography. The subject
of garden furniture, however, comes within our
province. Here we have to consider adapta-
tion to purpose and situation as primar3' requi-
sites, to which even beauty of form, excellence
of workmanship, and quality of material must
be subordinated. The style to be adopted must
be harmonious with the surroundings, and, of
course, is very much a matter of individual
taste. Light, floriated, and elaborate ironwork,
for instance, however beautiful in itself, does
not accord with heavy stone piers and plain
walls Heavy, uncompromising wooden gate-
posts are more suggestive of the lock-up than
of the entrance to a garden, whether formal or
natural. Plain, straig'nt seats may be appro-
priate on a railway platform, but in a garden
they are not suggestive of that repose which
it is one of the main purposes of a garden to
secure. As to the introduction into gardens
proper of statuary, opinions will naturally
differ. Our own feeling would be to banish
them from the open garden, and to relegate them
to the protection of the alcove or other shelter.
Fountains and sun dials come under a different
category. When well designed and in good pro-
portion, thej' form admirable garden decorations.
A certain amount ot quaintness in them is not
unpleasing, but there can be no reason why con-
ventionality should, as it often does, degenerate
into mere ugliness. Those desirous of securing
"garden furniture" v.'ill, by perusal of this
volume, and study of its beautiful illustrations,
see for themselve; what to avoid, and derive
many valuable hints in ?cl?cting what is at onci-
appropriate eand beautiful. [*Published at the
offices of The Studio, 44, Leicester Square, Lon-
don, price 5s.]

to find a variety to beat Vanguard, so beautifully
are the heads protected, and the curds in conse-
quence rival early Cauliflowers in their purity.

Colewort Cabbnsc — Make a good sowing now of
this vegetable so that ground when cleared ol
early Potatos and other early crops may be profit-
ably turned to account. Coleworts should be
planted one foot apart each way.

Asparagus. — This crop is now in full bearing,
being much later than usual, and gathering may
in consequence be continued after the usual time.
It is an excellent practice to feed Asparagus liberally
when the plants are actively growing rather than
apply winter dressings, which, on light soils, are apt
to be washed away. Salt is an excellent stimulant
for Asparagus. Wood ashes and bone meal tend
to produce strong growth, and the stronger this
can be made at this juncture the better it will be
for next season's crop. Tie the growths to stakes
or lines of string to make them secure against the
effects of wind.

The Week's Work.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Giii^-ON, Ci.'irtletRT to His drace the Duke of
Portland, Wtlbeck .\bbey, Notts.
Lettuce. — In making future plantations, and until
the hot weather is over, it will be better to select
a semi-shady place for the maturing of tliis crop.
Hot sunshine causes many of tne varieties to run
to seed quickly. In any situation a rich soil is
necessary, and one that has had plenty of fresh dung
dug into it is most likely to give the best results.
Plenty of water should be given to ensure tender-
ness. Sutton's Superb White is one of the best
Cos varieties to plant at this season, and Little
Gem, which is also a Cos variety, has much to
recommend it. This last-named variety is of a
dark green colour, and does not readily run to
seed, but becomes fit for use quickly.

Winter Green Vegetables. — From now onwards the
plantations to yield the winter supply should be
given mucli attention so that no failure in the supply
niav arise afterwards. Brussels Sprouts is the most
important of these crops, and two or three planta-
tions should be made so that the supply will con-
tinue from late autumn to late spring. Select the
best plants for planting early, and encourage them
to grow freely by watering them in dry weather,
and by loosening the surface of the soil periodically
between the lines. Savoys also must now be
planted, and the latest varieties are usually the
most valuable as they become fit for use when
other vegetables are scarce. Sprouting Broccoli
should be largely grown, as it is very useful
in a severe winter. Broccoli is an invaluable
crop, and to cut at this season it would be difficult

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By \V. .\. Cook, Gdrdencr to Sir Edmi NO G. Lodkr,
Bart., Leouardslee, Susse-^.

Peach and A'cciarinc Trees. — These should be
finally disbudded, and in most cases finally
thinned. Large fruiting varieties should be
thinned to 9 inches apart at least, but 1 foot
would be better. Pull off all those that are
being pressed either against a nail or wire, or
in between two branches, and all that have not
a chance to develop to their full size. Train the
growths into their respective positions ; take out
all laterals forming. Much light is required by
the early vari,eties in order that they may de-
velop colour. Such varieties as Waterloo,
Amsden June, and Early Alfred should be
afforded copious supplies of manure water, and
be syringed every day, both from the right and
left side, so that every leaf will be well washed.
Diluted drainings from the farmyard are a very
suitable manure. These may be used alternately
with Richard's XL-all graduating manure. Al-
ford thcr.iugh waterings, riot driblets, and after-
wards apply a short mulch, such as manure
from a spent mushroom Ijed, or even a good
coating of fine ashes, which is an admirable
mulch for fruit trees. Keep the young shoots,
free from aphis by occasionally washing them
with some insecticide, such as a solution of
quassia extract, quassia soap, or carbolic soap.
If these liquids are applied whilst moderately
warm they will be more efficacious

Apricots. — The above remarks apply equally
well to Apricots, except in respect to the thin-
ning of the fruits. Apricots may be left in
much greater abundance, although they may-
require to be greatly thinned as the fruits
usually set in clusters. Examine the trees care-
fully and destroy with the thumb and finger any
maggots found on the leaves, or pick them
off and drop them into a vessel containing a
poisonous liquid. Apricot trees need much
water, especially those growing against a south
wall. If the border is very hard, make some
holes with a fork before applying the water.
Sometimes second and third waterings are
necessiiry in quick succession. I believe that,
drought is largely responsible for Apricot trees
suffering loss of branches, and occasionally
perishing altogether.

Gooseberry bushes require to be carefully
watched for maggots, which should be collected
and destroyed by burning. Syringe the tree-i
afterwards with a strong solution of quassia
extract. Do not neglect this work for an hour,
as the maggots are capable of doing an immense
amount of mischief in a very short time. Take
away all the fruits from the lower branches for
bottling purposes.

Cherries. — Watch these trees and examine the
foliage for the slug-worm or maggot. These
are plentiful this season, and will soon despoil
a tree if left undiscovered. Pick off all that can
be 'seen, after which syringe the trees with
quassia. It aphis is spreading, dust also with
tobacco powder, or syringe the trees with the
XL-all insecticide, if late varieties, but using
quassia for the early varieties. Tie up the young
shoots on cordon-trained trees, and stop the
grosser branches and those badly situated. Apply
water to the roots as otten as may be necessary.

Strawberries. — These should be netted and
strawed if the work has not already been done.
J The plants are flowering well, though somewhat
late. Afford copious supplies of liquid manure-
to plants growing in dry borders.

June 2. 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

FEUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
HA^^LTON, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Pot vines. — These will now be affording ripe
fruit. When this has all been cut the vines
should be removed to a cooler house, and
subsequently, when they have become somewhat
hardened, be placed out of doors, nailing the
rods against a south wall to ripen the wood.
AVhere room can be spared, they will give
another crop of fruit next season, that is, if they
can be allowed to grow naturally without subjec-
ting them to high temperatures. But new vmes
must be procured for earlv forcing, as it would
be a waste of time to put these rods into the
forcing house again next season.

Black Hamburg vines. — Where these vines were
started early, the berries will now be colouring,
and the atmosphere of the house should be well
ventilated on calm and mild days, and a
"chink" left on all night. The temperature at
night should still be kept at 6a to 68 degrees.
I^et the borders be well supplied with tepid
water, and more especially where the borders
are narrow and shallow. It is most important
to admit some fresh air to the top of the house
early in the morning while the Grapes are colour-
ing, in order that the moisture in the atmosphere
may escape, for if this is allowed to settle on the
berries they will fail to colour satisfactorily.
Where the Grapes have to be kept hanging upon
the vines for any considerable length of time after
they are ripe, the grower's skill will be taxed to
preserve their colour and prevent the foliage en
the vines from being infested with red spider.
The only means to eradicate this insect are to
carefully sponge each leaf with sulphur and
water, keeping the borders uniformly moist,
and to mulch the borders with long litter.
Artificial heat should be employed very spar-
ingly, only sufficient being used to expel moisture
on dull days, and to keep the atmospheric tem-
perature at about 60 degrees. If there is not
sufficient foliage on the vines to afford a natural
shade to the bunches, an old fish net placed
over the glass double thickness will preserve the
colour of the fruit during powerful sunshine.
After the fruit has been cut thoroughly syringe
the vines, and apply water to the borders. Cut
back the lateral growths.

Cherries. — The young growths should be
stopped at the third and fourth leaf. Now that
the trees are well clad with foliage, and the
days are longer and warmer, the trees will
require closer attention as to watering, especi-
ally those that are growing in pots. Carefully
tie in the growths needed for the trees' exten-
sions, and vaporise the house on the first ap-
appearance of aphis. Discontinue syringing the
trees when the fruit is approaching ripeness.
Ventilate more freely on fine days, and leave a
little air on all night. Some varieties will keep
in good condition for several days after they
are ripe if gathered and placed in the fruit
rood.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,

Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
The .ipflication of Water to Plants. — Water
is one of the chief necessaries of life, and is
essential for the activity of all living organisms,
whether vegetable or animal. By the applica-
tion of water to the roots of a plant, it increases
and quickens the vitality of the plant, and
enables it, by means of the root-hairs, to absorb
and assimilate the food-elements that are neces-
sary for its increase. Success in plant growing
very largely depends on the discretion that is
shown in determining the quantity of water re-
quired by each plant. The serving of all plants
alike, too often practised in some gardens
in busy times, should be deprecated. Newly
potted plants should be given a good watering
to settle the soil about the roots soon after the
operation, but following this only a moderate
quantity will be required until the roots have
permeated the new soil, and it is seen that the
plant is again growing freely. When plants
have filled their pots with roots (especially hard-
wooded plants) care must be taken that these
do not suffer from lack of a sufficient supply.
Thoroughness in applying water to plants when
they require it has a great bearing on the health
of a p: -nt. The syringe is now frequently used

to supply the necessary moisture to the foliage
of plants, but useful as this instrument is, there
is a danger through the constant use of the
same of the surface soil of a plant becoming
very wet when the lower portion of the soil in
a pot may be dry. This condition might easily
occur in the management of Azaleas, Ericas, and
other hard-wooded plants now making their
growth. On the contrary, we may err in our
judgment by giving water immediately we per-
ceive the surface soil is dry, forgetting that
probably the centre of the mass of roots and soil
contains a large percentage of water, and in
such circumstances as these the roots may
gradually become suffocated by the exclusion of
air. It is necessary to find out the exact con-
dition of the soil. Because a plant required
water twice or thrice yesterday, that is no reasmi
why it should require as many applications each
day. A change m the aridity of the atmosphere
and the amount of moisture absorbed in the
growth of a plant determine the necessity of a
greater or less supply. Careless watering is the
cause of a large number of diseases in plants,
such as spot in Orchids, decay in bulbs. Azaleas
going blind in the flower buds, etc. The tem-
perature of the water about to be applied to
plants should always be considered and made
suitable.

The Filial Potting of Chrysantiumums. — Every
effort should be made to forward arrears of work
in the plant houses, so that all available help
may be forthcoming to assist in the re-potting
of Chrysanthemums. When once this operation
is commenced it should be carried through with
as little delay as possible. Plants which are
occupying 6-inch pots being now full of roots
would very materially suffer should hot, dry
weather set in. It is a good plan to prepare
the compost to be used for potting purposes some
little time before it is required for use. K very
suitable mixture consists of good turfy loam,
wood ashes, bone meal, old lime rubble siftings,
and dust charcoal. The whole should be well
mixed together, placed in a heap, and kept in
a dry condition. Each plant should be staked
])revious to potting, and be sprayed over with
the XL-all insecticide before being placed into
open quarters.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevou LAWRnNci:,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Affording water. — Owing to the fickle climatic
conditions of the atmosphere during the past few
weeks, many cultivators have found the matter
of affording water to their plants one of some
difficulty. On some mornings when the sun is
shining brightly, and there is every prospect of
a fine day, the inexperienced grower is tempted
to afford a thorough watering, but before mid-day
the sky may become overcast, and very little sun-
shine be seen again for several days. The plants
during the interval appear to be in a thoroughly
saturated condition, and if the condition of the
outside atmosphere is of such a character that
sufficient ventilation cannot be employed to
counteract this wetness, decay of the roots may
result, especially of such plants as Cattleyas,
Laelias, and their numerous hybrids. It is a
very difficult matter to advise those who have
not had much experience, as to the quantity of
water necessary for these plants, but if the
cultivator looks carefully over them, and
lightly sprinkles the surface only of the compost
whenever it appears to be dry, using a fine-rose
watering can for the purpose, he will not be
likely to cause them injury. As the weather be-
comes warmer and more settled, the quan-
tity supplied may be gradually increased,
especially to those plants that are grow-
ing quickly. Afford less to those that
are in large pots and have a consider-
able mass of material to root in than to those
which are well rooted in smaller pots. A larger
number of these plants have been ruined by over-
watering and insufficient ventilation than from
all other causes combined. Aerides, Vandas,
Saccolabiums, Angr^cums, and others that are
potted only in crocks and sphagnum-moss will
require no more water than is sufficient to keep
the moss on the surface in a healthy condition.
All terete-leaved Orchids as 'Vanda teres, V.
Hookeriana, V. Miss Joaquim, Dendrobium
teretifolium, Scuticarias, Brassavola iVirini, B.
stricta, and others that are grown on teak-wood

rafts, etc., need syringing overhead at least once
a day at this season. The whole of the Cypri-
pediums should be given a good watering each
time they become ary, C. bellatulum and its
hybrids, being the only exceptions, as thess
plants appear to thrive better if allowed to be-
come thoroughly dry and if less water be afforded
them than is requisite for other species. The de-
ciduous Calanthes still require careful and only
light waterings until they are well rooted.
Pleione maculata, P. lagenaria, etc., that are
growing strongly in shallow, suspended pans,
should now receive copious waterings at the
roots and an occasional viatering with weak
liquid cow manure. P. huTiilis and P. Hookers
will also require plenty of water, and should
be suspended in a light, well-ventilated position
in the cool house. Dendrobiums that have their
young growths well advanced, and are rooting
freely, should be well supplied with water, and
be given a good syringing with tepid rain-water
well up under the leaves to keep the foliage free
from red spider and other insects. Ca.-e must
bo taken not to over-water Masdevallias of the.
M. Harryana and M. Veitchii types. The
dwarfer growing kinds as M. Estradse, M,
Wageneriana, etc., are particularly liable to lose
their leaves if too freely watered. The Chimfe-
roid Masdevallias which are suspended from the
roof in teak-wood baskets seldom require direct
waterings if every morning the plants are taken
down and ths under side of the leaves well
syringed with tepid rain-water.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of ruvNtouTH,
St. Fagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Garden Vases. — In continuation of my remarks
in last week's issue, I may point out that for fill-
ing certain kinds of vases, especially wherp i"e-
sired for autumn decoration, Marguerite Car-
nations are singularly fitted ; their growth
is much more flexible than the ordinary
Border Carnations, and the plants adapt
themselves to the drooping position necessary
for the successful furnishing of a vase.
Sutton's strain of Nemesia strumosa is good
for furnishing shallow, flat vases, or decorated
bo,xes for placing on low walls if filled in dis-
tinct colours, when they are decidedly effective.
A splendid show with this plant can be main-
tained throughout the summer months by a
relay of vases and successional sowings. Terra-
cotta vases 3 inches to -1 inches in depth are
appropriate for the Portulaca, which also can
be kept in distinct colours, and as some are very
brilliant, an excellent display may be produced.
Light, sandy soil suits the Portulaca, and the
best plan is to sow seeds lightly into the vases
where the seedlings are to remain, and
thin the plants out afterwards, though the seed-
lings transplant readily enough. Once placed
in the warm sunshine on walls of terraces, or
elsewhere, they grow and come into flower very
rapidly, remaining effective throughout the
summer. The hotter and drier the season, the
better will they thrive. Salvia patens, S.
farinacea, and S. splendens are all deservedly
popular vase plants. Plumbago capensis is a
fine subject for planting in deep vases, parti-
cularly if the vases can be removed to a cool
house for the winter months, and the plants can
bo kept growing on in them for several years.
Where this can be done, it adds a striking
feature, as the Plumbago grows gracefully and
carries magnificent spikes of bloom possessing
a pleasing blue colour, distinct from that of or-
dinary vase plants. A position out of doors
should be selected that is as much sheltered
from winds as possible. The New Zealand Flax
(Phormium tenax) is suitable for large vases,
where something bold and imposing is required.
Their magnificent leaves, growing 5 and 6 feet in
length, give a very handsome appearance to a
vase, which is much enhanced when the plant
throws up its giant flowering stems. In the
southern and south-western counties the Phor-
mium remains unhurt out of doors throughout
the year, but in the north a vase filled with it
would probably have to be removed to a frost-
protected shed to enable it to stand the winter.
Similar treatment would have to be accorded
the Myrtle, Oleander, Sweet Verbena (Aloysia
citriodora). Standard Heliotrope, and the more
hardy Palms, which are all excellent subjects
for certain phases of vase work.

344

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JuXE 2, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Qarden,
VV.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for mining, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
CommuiiuiUwus slwtitd be written on one side onlv of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the 7t'eek as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. Ij desired, the signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

APPOINTMENTS FOR JUNE.

S.\TURD.'iY,

MONDAY,

TUESDAY,

June 2-
June 4
June 5

WEDNESDAY', June C

THURSDAY,
-SATURDAY,
TUESDAY,

June 7
June 9
June 12

WEDNESDAY, June 13

WEDNESDAY, June 20

THURSDAY,

SUNDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY,

FRID.AY,

-S.\TURDAY,

June 21
June 24
June 26

June 27 -[

June 29

June 30 I

Sec. Fran?. d'Hort. de Londres

meet.
Bank Holiday.
National Amateur Gard. Assoc.

meet.
Roy. Hort. Soc. Exhibition of

Colonial-grown Fruit (2 days).
Linnean Soc. meet.
Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.
Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.
Roy. Bot. Soc. Great Show in

Regent's Parli (3 days).
Roy. Cornwall Show at Redruth

(2 days).
Roy. Hort. Soc. Exhibition of

Table Decorations, &c.
Y'orkshire Gala, York (3 days).
Linnean Soc. meet.
Midsummer Day.
Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.
Richmond Hort. Soc. Flower

Show.
Roy. Bot. Soc. meet.
Windsor and Eton Rose Show.
Dutch Gard. boc. meets.

Average T'.iMPERATuRE for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— 59'3°
Actual Temperatures: —

l^o^DOH.— Wednesday, May 30 (6 P.M.): Max. 68°; Mm.
51°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, l^ondon.— Thursday, May 81
(10 A.M.); Bar., 29.3; Temp., 60*; Weather—
Overcast.
Provinces.— 11 tiincsrfny. May 30 (6 p.m.) : Max. Gl
South-west Ireland ; Min. 51' East Scotland.

SALES.

•WEDNESDAY—

Palms, Plants, Begonias, Ferns, Geraniums, &c., at
67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 12.

FRIDAY—

Imported and Established Orchids m variety, at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe l^ Morris, at 12.45.

Of the Temple Show, held as

Events of
the Week.

these pages are passing through
the press, what can we say that
has not been said before? The
circumstances of time and place forbid any
great amount of variation as to grouping,
though something in that way was this time
.attempted. Climatal vagaries such as we
have had in such profusion this spring do not
greatly affect such a Show as this, and no
visitor, seeing th\^ glorious exhibition, could
imagine that the weather had been anything
but kind. Looking back upon past years, it
becomes evident not only that horticulture
has made immense progress, and that a high
standard of cultivation is more than main-
stained, but that taste has improved, and tliat
more care is taken to eliminate inferior pro-
■ductions and commonplace materials than
was at one time exercised. For this we have
to thank not only the exhibitors, but also the
•oificials of the Society, and here we should
like to record our own obligations to the staff
of the Society for the facilities afforded to our
reporters. How greatly the services of Mr.
Wright, the Superintendent, are appreciated
is shown by the fact that he was made the
recipient on Tuesday of a handsome tes-
timonial in the shape of a gold watch and a
purse of money. This recognition was
made by the exhibitors, and those who [•enow
IVIr. Wright's urbanity and willingness to
oblige will feel that it was well bestowed.

The details of the Show are given in the
following pages, so that it is not neces-
sary here to do more than allude to cer-
tain special features. For specialists the
Orchids take the first place, and the gem of

the Show was the fine variety of Odonto-
glossum crispum known as Leonard Perfect,
exhibited by Messrs. Sander and Sons, and
of which we give two illustrations, botli
taken in the exhibition. The description
will be found in our report of the Orchids.
Before leaving the subject of Orchids, it i.s
interesting to note the numbers of our Bel-
gian friends who honoured us with their
[iresence, and who contributed so much to the
success of the exhibition — a welcome sign of
the international character of the display. A
German exhibitor, Herr Arends, of Rons-
dorff, showed a remarkably fine strain of
Primula obconica. The Hippeastrums from
Messrs. Ker and Sons, of Liverpool, were
specially attractive, not only for the fine form
of the flowers, but for the delightful varia-
tions in colour, the rose-pink shades being
particularly beautiful. One of these is
figured on another page.

Roses were, as usual, lovely, as will be
understood when the names of the Paul's,
Cant's, and Turner are mentioned. New
Roses of the Rambler type were largely in
evidence with some beautiful hybrid Teas.
The collection of Roses shown by Mr. Mount,
of Canterbury, was so good that it narrowly
escaped winning the Veitch Cup given for
the best exhibit in the Show, but which was
this time awarded to Messrs. .Sander and
Sons for their collection of Orchids and new-
plants. Well, indeed, have Messrs. Sander
earned this coveted distinction. The Rhodo-
dendrons from Messrs. J. Waterer and Sons
were wonderfully beautiful ; and the group of
Azaleas and similar plants set up by Messrs.
Cuthbert was as fine as usual. Cannell's
Cannas were also surprisingly brilliant. Out
of doors were the usual groups of choice trees
and hardy shrubs from Alessrs. Cripps,
Russell, and others, whilst Messrs. Cutbush
outdid themselves in the splendid and taste-
ful group they exhibited, of which we hope
to give an illustration in our ne.xt issue.

In Mr. Russell's collection were shown
some seedlings raised from a cross between
Genista Andreana and G. scoparia var. pro-
strata. The seedlings showed the coloured
flowers of Andreana and the j^rostrate habit
of the prostrate form, and these peculiarities,
we understood, are reproduced in the next
generation.

Messrs. Veitch and Sons had, in a rather
exposed position, a selection of their novelties,
including the noble Meconopsis intcgrifolia,
the wonderfully-coloured Primula Cockburn-
iana, P. sibirica, with long-stalked oblong
glabrous leaves and lilac flowers with a
white eye ; the yellow-flowered P. orbicularis,
recently described in our columns ; Androsace
Henrvi, with cordate orbicular leaves and
heads of small white flowers ; Cypripedium
tibeticum, a hardy herbaceous species, with a
remarkable lip, of which we give an illustra-
tion on another page.

The Temple Show attracts gardeners from
all parts of the country, and gives us an
opportunity of seeing friends and associates
whom we should not otherwise have the op-
portunity of seeing. Among the numerous
meetings of the week we may say that
the annual gathering of past and present
Kewites took place on Monday, 28th ult.,
at the Holborn Restaurant, London. Prior
to the dinner the annual general meeting of
the Guild was held, under the presidency of
Mr. W. Watson, the chief business being the
reading and adoption of the annual report.
The Chairman, in the course of his remarks,
observed that, although the Guild fulfils to

everyone's satisfaction the objects for which
it was formed, he was of opinion that it
might be more progressive and exert itself
to promote the interests of gardening gener-
ally. One hundred and thirty-five membere
subsequently sat down to dinner, and among
them were seen many old Kew men from
distant parts, including Davies (Lucknow),
Dawe (Uganda), Fox (Penang), Hislop
(Pietermaritzburg), Johnson (Gold Coast),
MacMillan (Ceylon), Wilke (Rotterdam), etc.
Mr. B. Daydon Jackson, F.L.S., presided,
and he was supported by, among others,
Lieut. -Colonel Prain, Director of Kew; Dr.
Henry, Mr. R. L Lynch, M.A., A.L.S., etc.
The Chairman, in proposing the toast of the
evening, " The Kew Guild," remarked on
the good work such an Association did in
linking up past Kew men with those at pre-
sent engaged in the Gardens. The great
event of the year, he said, in connection with
Kew was the retirement of Sir W. T. Thisel-
ton Dyer, K.C.M.G., from the directorship,
and the appointment of Lieut. -Colonel Prain
to the post. Mr. John Weathers replied. He
said the Guild welcomed its newest member
in the present director, Lieut. -Colonel Prain,
although regretting the absence of their old
chief. Sir W. T. Thiselton Dyer. Mr.
Weathers supported Mr. Watson's recom-
mendation that the Guild should endeavour
to help any organisation that exists for the
benefit of gardeners. Dr. Henry proposed
the health of Lieut. -Colonel Prain, and the
company took advantage of the opportunity
thus given them for demonstrating their
cordial welcome to the director, who re-
sponded in a sympathetic speech that was
much appreciated. The Guild meetings serve
to show the spirit of comradeship that exists
among all sections of Kew men, and it was
gratifying to hear from Lieut. -Colonel Prain,
who, when in India, employed and worked
with a large number of Kew men, that he
had always found them to be reliable, and,
though not all equally capable, yet equally
straightforward, honest, and enthusiastic in
their work.

The inaugural meeting of the Winter
Flowering Carnation Society was held on
Tuesday evening, when ]\Ir. Brunton was
elected President and Mr. Mathias, Secretary.
There are about 70 members, and the balance
is on the right side.

The annual meeting of the British Gar-
deners' Association, the rules of which have
now been revised so as to remove all objec-
tions and serve to bind the gardening com-
munity into a strong, self-helping body, help-
ful to individuals but aggressive to none,
took place on Wednesday evening. The pub-
lished rules and recommendations were adop-
ted with slight modifications, the amendments
having respect to management rather than to
policy. The executive council will now con-
sist of 24 members. Mr. John Weathers was
elected secretary, and Mr. E. F. Hawes, trea-
surer. It was decided to institute a junior
branch of the association for members under
20 years of age.

Supplementary Illustration (Tecoma

Brycei, N. E. Br.). — Our illustration was taken
from a photograph obligingly forwarded to us by
Dr. Franceschi, of Santa Barbara, California,
under the name of Tecoma reginse sabae, in
allusion to the splendour of the flower. We find
on enquiry that Dr. Fr-^nceschi has been fore-
stalled, and that the plant has already been
described bv Mr. N. E. Brown in the Kew Bulletin,
1901, p. 130, as Tecoma Brycei. There is a discre-

June 2, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

345

pancy in the description of the colour of the Hower,
which Mr. Brown describes as " Ulacina," but he
was deahng with herbarium specimens, whilst
Dr. Franceschi describes from the living plant.
The plant was found in Mashonalaud by the Rt.
Hon. J. Bryce. after whom it is named. We need
not repeat the technical description given by iVIr.
Brow.n, but merely append the cultural notes
with which Dr. Franceschi has favoured us.
"Seeds of an undetermined Bignoniad were re-
ceived here, from Rhodesia, a few years ago. The
plants grew with great vigour, and came in bloom
for the first time in October, 1904, profusely bloom-

Tecoma grandiflora. Their shape and their rich rosy
crimson colour are suggestive of Gloxinias. They
are also very delicately scented, not a common
occurrence in the order. This new Tecoma is
sure to take rank among the best winter-blooming
climbers, like Bignonia venusta and tlie Bougain-
villeas. From the well-known Tecoma Ricasoli-
ana, of Tanfani (T. McKenni, Watson), it is quite
distinct both in foliage and in flower, as well as
for its season of blooming, the flowers of the latter
appearing only during summer. ' ' Dy. F. Francesclii,
Santii Barbara, California, March, 1906.

Flowers in Season. — Mr. E. Fowler, nf

Royal Benevolent Institution, and a similar sum to
the Corn Exchange Benevolent Institution.

The Eruption of Vesuvius.— Mr. Sprengek,
of Vomero, Naples, sends us specimens of a re-
markable Auricula with very large flpwers. In
spite of a deposit of 4 to 5 centimetres thick of ash ,
this Auricula has not suffered. Primula Palinuri,
P. erosa, and others, are in good condition, but
P. megasecefolia and P. Sieboldii have suffered
severely, but are now recovering.

Linnean Society. — ^The annual meeting was
held on May 24, Prof. Herdman in the chair.
In the President's address the chief events of the

r^

■s.»;

Fig. 137. — HippEAsTRUM '• madder kose," a variety showing a
(From a sketch made at the Temple Show by Mr. Worthinpton Smith.

NEW shade of colour.
See " Asvards" p. 353)

ing until the following May. At the beginning of
October, 1905, they were in bloom again as they
are at the present date, March, 1906. This long
period of blooming will recommend the plant
very highly, wherever it can be grown in the open,
as well as for large conservatories. But there are
other points to its credit. First, it is an exceed-
ingly rapid grower, and in a very short time will
make thick masses of light green and very finely
cut foliage, almost mimicking a giant Asparagus at
->, distance. The panicles of flowers are very large,
numbering up to 100 blooms opening in succession,
the individual flowers being of ilie size 01 those of

Pontypool, kindly sends a fine spike of Ansellia
africana, cut from a plant covering a space of 6 feet
6 inches, bearing seven similar spikes. Though
not exactly a popular Orchid, this is certainly one
of the most attractive and fragrant, and the speci-
men sent attests the excellence of the cultivation.

Fifty Pounds for the Gardeners'
Benevolent Institution. — As a result of the
production of the operatic play " On Puddleton
Quay," by Mr. Edward Sherwood, of which a
note was previously published on p. 29S, we are
glad to be able to state that Mr. Sherwood has
been enabled to hand over £bQ to the Gardeners'

year were summarised and a further communica-
tion on the mode of production of pearls was.
made. The number of new Fellows elected
was not so large as In the previous year, when
numerous ladies availed themselves ot the pro-
vision of the new charter and became Fellows.
The financial condition of the society is satis-
factory, and excellent work continues to be done
by the Fellows. The Gold Medal was this year
awarded to the Rev. Canon Norman, an authority
on Crustaceans. In acknowledging the honour-
conferred on him the recipient alluded to the
great desirability of workers in any department

34G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June

1906

having in addition to their work a hobby. Change
of occupation rather than rest was most desirable
for those in good health. A meeting will be held
on Thursday, June 7, at 8 p.m., when the follow-
ing Papers will be read: — 1, On two new species
ofPopulusfromDarjeeling, by Mr. H. H. Haines,
F.L.S., &c. ; 2, Biscayan Plankton, Part VIII.
The Cephalopoda, by Mr. W. E. Hoyle, M.A.,
&c. ; 3, Biscayan Plankton, Part IX. The Medusa;,
by Mr. E. T. Browne, F.Z.S., &c.

Flower Shows at Birmingham. — The first
of two special Flower Shows which have been
arranged to take place in the Botanic Gardens,
Edgbaston. Birmingham, will be held on June 13,
from 12.30 to 7 p.m. The movement has met
with encouraging support, and mtending exhibitors
are asked to notify their entries to the secretary as
early as possible, that the necessary arrangements
may be made.

Sale of Orchids (See also p. 355). — The
sale of 89 plants from the collection of N. C.
CoOKSON, Esq., Oakwood, at Messrs. Protheroe
& Morris, Central Sale Rooms, Cheapside, on
Tuesday, May 29, attracted a large and appreci-
ative audience composed of British and Continental
Orchid experts. The total sum realised was within
afew shillings of £4,000. Blotched Odontoglossums
are still the favourites, small plants of O. crispum
Franz Masereel went for 500 gns. ; O. c. Mundy-
anum, 450 gns. ; O. c. Graireianum, 900 gns. ;
O. c. purpurascens, 55 gns. and 60 gns.; O. c. Cook-
sonianum, 75 gns. ; O. c. Peetersii, 50 gns. ; O. c.
Harold, 150 gns. ; O. c. Chapmanii, 55 gns. ; O. c.
Frederick, 130 gns. ; O. c. Rossendale, 240 gns. ;
■O. c. Cooksonia;, 220 gns., and others realised
proportionately good prices. The plants were
in excellent condition, and reflected credit on Mr.
H. J. Chapman, the gardener at Oakwood.

BuRBiDGE Memorial. — The members of the
Irish Gardeners' Association being anxious to
establish a permanent memorial to the late F. W.
BuRBiDGE, M.A., V.M.H., who not only in his
capacity of president contributed largely to the
Bound basis on which it now stands, but so closely
identified himself with the best interests of gar-
dening, have concluded that of several sugges-
tions made as to the form such memorial should
■take, a library, to be called the Burbidge Memorial
Library, is the most suitable. The Burbidge
Memorial Library is intended for the use of the
Irish Gardeners' Association, the members of
which are distributed over a wide area of the
country ; and whilst due provision will be made
for the care and keep of the library at the head-
quarters of the association in Dublin, facility will
be afforded for country members to obtain the
benefit of the same by supplying them with such
works as they may require for study or reference,
by post or otherwise : rules and regulations
will be formulated, that whilst safeguarding the
memorial its usefulness will not be hampered.
To make the library worthy of its object as a
memorial, it is the feeling of the special com-
mittee constituted to carry it out, that in spite of
the cheerful and ready response of the members,
more help is necessary than can be obtained within
the limits of the association, but that the late
Curator of the Trinity College Botanic Gardens,
having been so widely known and universally
respected, this memorial will sympathetically
appeal to many garden-lovers who knew him. To
this end the committee respectfully ask the kind
consideration of the matter, and whether it be
direct pecuniary assistance for the purchase of
books, or the gifts of any botanical or horticultural
works, either will be equally esteemed. Contribu-
tions to the fund, or gifts of books will be gratefully
received and duly acknowledged by the hon. sec-
reictry, or George Watso.v Esq., hon. treasurer,
10. Dame Street, Dublin. E. Knowlitiii, Jioii.
secretary, Burbidge Memorial Committee.

DAVIDIA INVOLUCRATA.

Among the most remarkable introductions from
China of recent years is the tree named after its
discoverer, the Abbe David. Seeds were sent to
M. Maurice de Vilmorin, who kindly sent us, in
1899, a photograph of a seedling plant, and now
adds to our obligations to him by sending a photo-
graph of the plant as it has flowered this year.
The tree belongs to the Cornel family and is chiefly
remarkable for the large cream-coloured bracts
which surround the relatively inconspicuous
flowers.

On April 11, 1903, we ^av a description and

figuring the plant as it first flowered in Europe.
The tree is believed to be quite hardy.

Mr. Hemsley has contributed to the Journal of
the Linncan Society, June 18 (1903), p. 556, a
description of the germination of the seed, which
presents some mteresting features.

CYPRIPEDIUM TIBETICUM.

This handsome hardy species was shown at the
Temple Show on the 29th ult., where it was drawn
by our artist, Mr. Worthington Smith. It is one
of the many species introduced tn the Veitchian

Fig. 138. — davidia involucrata, a hardy TUEii; plowers surrounded by large

CREAM-COLOURED BRACTS (REDUCED).
■(From a pliotograph of M. Maurice de Vilmorin.)

full-page illustration of the plant from dried
specimens collected by Mr. E. H. Wilson, for
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, in whose nurseries,
at Combe Wood, this plant is now growing.
As M. de Vilmorin remarks, there is a good deal
of variation in the form, coloration, and size of
the bracts in individual specimens, and it is not
unlikely that these variations will also prove to be
seasonal, in so far that the size and colour of the
bracts may differ in different seasons.

In any case we are under great obligations to
M. Maurice de Vilmorin for the opportunity of

nurseries by Mr. E, H. Wilson, who found it at
Tachien-lu, in Western Sze-chuan. It was
described in the first instance by Rolfe, in the
Journal of the Linncan Society, XXIX., p. 320, and
again in the Orchid Rcvicu- (1905), p. 194. It is
nearly allied to C. macranthum, and is remarkable
for the purplish netted venation of the sepals and
petals, and for the large globose pouch-like lip,
which is of a blackish purple colour. Mr. Wilson
states that it is very common on the Chino-
Thibetan border at an elevation of 10,000 to
13,000 feet, where it grows in profusion.

June 2, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

347

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

(JThe Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ty his correspondents.)
The Daffodil. — I had the pleasure of pre-
senting a spray bouquet composed of Bicolor
Grandee Daffodil to Her Excellency the
Countess of Aberdeen on her visit to Cork on
May 17. It was made up with its own foliage, and
Her Excellency was so pleased with the offering,
and one in our warm climate so out of season.

strictly true strain is grown, an ideal Cabbage both
for the private and market-gardener. Sutton's
Flower of Spring is unquestionably a very valuable
variety, and one we always grow to succeed
Ellam's Early Dwarf. It comes wonderfully true,
seldom runs to flower, and grows two sizes larger
than Ellam's Early. We have been cutting
Ellam's since Easter, and now Flower of Spring,
forms a capital succession. We always make
two sowings and three or four plantations, the
first about July 25 and a second from August

Hawthorn portion will bloom later. The grafting
must have been effected some few years since.
The tree was about 10 feet high, and the scion
and stock had developed in a fairly equal degree.
The phenomenon suggested, among other matters,
the possibility, with an accommodating stock and
grafts of suitable flowering trees, of having a tree
in bloom for a considerable time, which could be
made decorative if the grafts were inserted in a
way that would conduce to artistic effect at the
different blooming periods, if. T. Hcsketh.

Fig. 139. — CYPRIPEDIUM TIBETICUM, KE.'\L SIZE, A NEW H.\RDY SPECIES SKETCHED AT THE TEMPLE SHOW BY MR. WORTHINGTON SMITH.

(For text see page 346.)

that she carried it all day, and even took it back
to the Viceregal Lodge, Dublin. Her Excellency
is known to be fond of Daffodils. The bulbs were
niit planted until the middle of March, and were
put in a cool north border. At this date many of
the flowers are still at their best. Wm. Baylor
Hartlund, Ard Cairn, Cork.

Spring Cabbages. — I was very interested,
but somewhat surprised (see p. 3.33), to hear of
the bad behaviour of my old friend, Ellam's Early
Dwarf, in prematurely running to flower in some
parts of the country. I have always regarded the
non-bolting' of this variety as a strong point in its
favour, and, in addition to its hardiness, earliness
and good quality, it is, in my opinion, when a

10 to 15. This season not a single plant ot
either of the above-named varieties has bolted
here out of three large batches — the first time I
ever remember being quite free from this defect.
Unfortunately stocks vary considerably, which
may possibly be responsible for the cases pre-
viously cited. Others, perhaps, would give their
experience. E. Beckett, Elslrci.

Apple crafted on Hawthorn. — On walking
between the hedgerows recently at Hampton,
Middlesex, I saw an Apple scion grafted on a
Hawthorn stock. The Apple portion of the tree
was a mass of bright pink-coloured bloom, and,
conditions proving favourable, there appeared no
reason why the flowers should not set. The

UucuMBER Carters Earliest of All.

— This is a valuable Cucumber for very early
forcing, being an exceedingly quick grower. We
cut fruits this spring in exactly a month from the
time of planting. From plants put out of large 60's
size pots on February '11 vie cut well-shaped fruits
on March 23. The fruits are of good colour and
handsome appearance. I consider it to be the
earliest Cucumber in cultivation. " Model " and
" Ideal " are famous ;'arieties to follow. Both are
very handsome and good fruits for exhibition
purposes, being perfect in outline and having
scarcely any perceptible neck, and in places where
these fruits are sent to the table whole, they are
e.-cceedingly valuable. W. A. Cook, Leonardslce
Gardens, Horsham,

348

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 2, 1906.

Royetl Hortictilttire^l Society.

MAY 29. 30 and 31.

THE nineteenth annual Show in the gardens of
the Inner Temple, Thames Embankment,
was opened by the Royal Horticultural
Society on Tuesday morning last, and the ex-
hibition will remain open to the public until
Thursday evening, after these pages have gone
to press. Notwithstanding the high quality that
has characterised these exhibitions in the past,
it may be said, without fear of contradiction,
that the display made during the present week
is at least as meritorious as that in any pre-
ceding exhibition considered as an illustration of
British horticulture. Favoured with delightfully

MR. S. T. WRIGHT, THE SUPERINTENDENT OK
THE R.H.S. SHOWS.

fine weather on tne opening day, the tents and
gardens also were thronged with visitors during
the whole of the afternoon ; indeed, the number
of visitors appeared to be greater than ever ; and
doubtless there were many who, having come to
see the show, were unable to get more than a
cursory glance at the individual exhibits. This is
undoubtedly a serious disadvantage, but it is a
penalty inflicted by the wonderful success that
these shows have attained, and so must be borne
with more or less patience so long as the con-
ditions remain unalterable as they appear to be
at present.

The Orchid and Fruit Committee met for the
inspection of novelties just as at ordinary meetings,
although on this occasion the members of the Fruit
AND Vegetable Committee did not meet in an
official capacity. The groups of plants, flowers,
fruits, and vegetables were, as is usual at
"Temple" shows, inspected by judges specially
selected by the council, who made awards as
printed on p. 355. These special shows of the
society cannot be held without their imposing an
immense amount of work upon the society's
officials, especially on Mr. S. T. Wright and
Mr. Frank Reader and the members of their
staffs.-. In this connection we are glad to note,
as was pointed out on another page, that the
trade exhibitors have taken means to show their
appreciation of the energy ' and tact exercised
by Mr Wright by presenting him on the first
day of the show with a handsome gold watch

and chain and a purse of 85 guineas. Mr. W.
Penrose Atkinson acted as secretary and treasurer
for this subscription, and the formal presentation
was made by Mr. Arthur W. Sutton. There were
more exhibitors at the show than on any previous
occasion, and the amount of space that could
be allotted to each was therefore rather less than
formerly.

Orchid Committee.

Present: Harry J. Veitch, Esq., V.M.H. (in the
Chair), and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (Hon. Sec), De
B. Crawshay, H. Little, A. A. McBean, H. J.
Chapman, T. W. Bond, R. Brooman-White, G.
F. Moore, J. W. Odell, W. Boxall, W. H.
Young, H. A. Tracy, A. Dye, H. T. Pitt, W.
Cobb, W. Bolton, J. W. Potter, F. M. Ogilvie,
H. G. Alexander, F. J. Thorne, H. Ballantine,
and W. H. White.

Epiphronitis Veitchii. Specially noteworthy were
the distinct Odontogiossum crispum varieties
Mary Colman (with four spikes), Margery Tyrrel
Giles, Colmanae (with three spikes). Rosy Queen
(four spikes), Eleanor, and Mrs. J. Colman ;
Cypripediura Lawrenceanum Hyeanum, C. cal-
losum Sanderas, Cattleya Mossias Reineckiana,.
Wageneri, and the beautiful C. M. Mrs. Jere-
miah Colman (see Awards) ; the distinct slate-
blue lipped C. intermedia ccerulea, Laelio-
Cattleya Canhamiana, Gatton Park variety, and
other hybrids, fine forms of Miltonia vexillaria,
the graceful orange-scarlet Epidendrum
Boundii, and other hybrid Epidendrums, iVc.

Next came the magnificent group of Messrs
Sander & Sons, St. Albans, already alluded
to, which included several fine novelties,
but which, following their usual custom
at the Temple .Shov/, were not entered
for .\wards. Of these ths grand Odonto-

FlG. 141. — single flower of ODONTOGLOSSUM crispum "LEONARD PERFECT," REAL
SIZE, AS SKETCHED BY MR. WORTHINGTON SMITH AT THE TEMPLE SHOW.

The number of fine groups staged was^equal to
that in previous years, the magnifiaent ,ind
excellently-arranged group of Messrs. Sander &
Sons being probably the best — all things con-
sidered— ever staged at the Temple, and securing
for the exhibitors the coveted distinclion of the
Veitchian Cup. On one side of the broad central
staging in Tent 5, at the entrance, was the exten-
sive and interesting group of Jeremiah Colman,
Esq., Gatton Park (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound). The
background was of Cymbidiums and other
showy species, with arching spikes, and the body
of the group was set out with batches of fine
Odontogiossum crispum, Miltonia vexillaria,
brilliantly coloured Masdevallias, &c., the front
centre being of nice specimens of the pretty
white Cypripedium niveum, one plant having
eleven flowers, and other dwarf species, colour
bjing given by scarlet Cochlioda Noezliana and

glossum crispum Leonard Perfect was a noble
form, with large and finely-formed flowers, and
unique in the blotching, the colouring being
displayed in one large, light, red-brown blotch
on the middle of each segment, a broad white
margin and base showing the blotching very dis-
tinctly. The lip is white, with several brown
blotches, and the whole flower unlike anything
else in this coveted, section of Odonto-
glossums (see figs. 141 and 142). Equally good as
a hybrid was O. ardentissimum " Countess of
Tankerville," a large and beautiful white
flower, exquisitely marked, and blotched with
rose-purple. Other good forms of O ar-
dentissimum, and other hybrid Odontoglossums
including several forms of the handsome O.
Lambeauianum. Among Laelio-Cattleyas L.-C.
>< Golden Glory (L.-C. X Zephyra X C. Mossiae
Reineckiana) was a charming new yellow variety.

lECC]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

549

with reddish rose front to the lip, the fine plant
having twelve flowers ; forms of L.-C. Canhami.
ana, L.-C. calistoglossa, L.-C. Haroldiana, l*v:c.
The forms of Cattleya Mossise included a good
selection of white varieties, C. M. Reineckiana
Hardy's variety, still one of the best. C. Men-
deli Our Queen was a pretty blush white, and
contrasted well with the dark varieties. Other
fine things noted were Zygopetalum " Sir
Trevor," a very handsome natural hybrid of Z.
fostratum, Brasso-Cattleya Mrs. Leaman var.

letianum, &c. The group was most artistically
arranged, and formed one of the greatest at-
tractions in the show, not only to the Orchid
specialist but also to the ordinary visitor.

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn,
East Sheen, followed with a remarkably fine
group, also excellently well arranged by his
Orchid grower, Mr. W. H. Young. In the centre
at the back were several fine pure white Sobralia
macrantha alba, with a score of flowers, in
front of which was a specimen of Dendrobium

Fig. 142. — ODONTOGLOSSUM CRISPUM " LEONARD PERFECT," FROM A PHOTOGRAPH

TAKEN AT THE TEMPLE SHOW — REDUCED. For single flower, See fig. 141 p. 348.

Fimbriata, with rose-tinted yellow flowers heavily
fringed ; Phalasnopsis Sanderiana, Oncidium
Englerianum, a very singular species ; Cymbi-
dium Huttoni ; the pretty Camarotis purpurea,
Renanthera Imschootiana ; the fine Miltonia
vexillaria Lambeaui^, a bright rose-purple
variety, with white base to the lip, havnig pretty
yellow and red rays ; an interesting pan of
Epidendrum Endressii hybrids ; the new Den-
drobium Fletcheri, white with scoop-shaped,
claret-coloured lip, several new Cypripediums,
and the rare C. glanduliferum, Aerides Houl-

Falconeri, with about one hundred white and
purple blooms, beneath which was a repre-
sentative collection of Cypripedium bellatulum,
C. niveum, &c. Odontoglossums embraced fine
forms of O. crispum, O. polyxanthum, O.
Wilckeanum Oakwoodense, O. ardentissimum,
O. excellens, O. Ossulstoni, and others. The
Phala;nop5is included P. speciosa, P. violacea,
P. Luddemanniana, and P. grandiflora. At in-
tervals were .selections of Thunias, Vandas and
Zvgopetalums, the last including the fine Z.
Roeblingianum, with six spikes. Cypripediums

were represented by some 20 good species and
varieties; Cattleyas by a fine selection of C.
Mendeii, C. Mossias, C. Schrodera;, delicate and
various hybrids, La;lia purpurata included L. p.
Russe'Uiana, and some of showy Lslio-
Cattleyas, L.C. calistoglossa bore four fine
flowers ; C. Canhamiana six blooms on one
spike; and Baden Powell, Fascinator, G. S.
Ball, Vinesiae, and others were well shown.
Bright colours were given by forms of Masde-
vallia Harryana, M. Veitchiana, and other
species ; Maxillaria Sanderiana bore' four
flowers ; brides Fieldingii three spikes ; and-,
various other showy and interesting species were
included, the collection representing 25 genera,
57 species, 9 varieties of species, 29 hybrids, and
a further selection of cut spikes.

Mrs. Ernest Hill, Uedleaf, Penshurst (gr.
Mr. Ringham), exhibited a group of nice plants
of Miltonia vexillaria, very finely flowered.

Messrs. William Bull & Sons, Chelsea, had
an excellent group, in which most of the showy
Orchids of the season were well represented.
The central specimen was a good example of
the rare Madagascar Cyrabidium rhodocheilum,
with a fine inflorescence of flowers, with promi-
nent red lips. It was illustrated in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, June 17, last year. Cattleya
Mendeii varieties were good, the best being
ignescens. Princess of Wales, Countess and Dia-
dem ; Laelia purpurata King Alfonso, I'rince of
Wales, and Rhoda, all good and distinct ; Odon-
toglossum crispum varieties were good, and in-
cluded a nice form of var. xanthotes. O. Harry-
anum nigrum was a fine and a very dark flower.
The group also contained a great variety of good
and interesting species, including some strong
examples of Vanda tricolor and suavis.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, staged a
very fine group on the other side of the central
staging. Many typical forms of Odontoglossum
crispum were included, and a good plant of the
marvellously handsome O. crispum Fearnley
Sander, which stands well in the front rank of
these fine and costly Orchids. The large flowers
had the greater part of' their segments heavily
blotched with reddish purple, and there seems to
be no other like it in the section. The large-
flowered Cattleyas were specially fine in this
group, C. Mendeii " Mercury " being a grand
flower, and the lighter C. M. "Fame" very
distinct. An unnamed blush-white variety was
very distinct, and great variation and excellence
were evident in the whole strain which Messrs.
Low imported. Laelia purpurata varieties were
exceptionally good, L. p. Lowiae, a light variety
of a peculiar pale lilac-pink tint, with fine, dark
lines in the lip, being remarkable ; L. p. Coheni,
with very dark lip, showy, and others very at-
tractive. White and coloured forms of Cattleya
Mossias, a good Coelogyne pandurata, C. inter-
media alba, and some interesting " botanical "
Orchids, including Cirropetalum picturatum,
Vanda De.iis^ni, Epidendrums, &c., were grouped
at one end.

Mrs. A. B. Collingwood, Lilburn Towers,
Alnwick (gr. Mr. Lovett), had a neat group of
finely-flowered Vanda teres and Dendrobium
Falconeri, which made an attractive exhibit.

Mr. George BK0N'CK.«tT, Charleroi, Belgium,
staged a small group of the new Cymbidium
Sanderi, with tall spikes of large blush-white
flowers, marked with crimson on the lip. (Il-
lustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle, February
25, 1905.)

R. Ashworth, Esq., Ashlands, Newchurch,
Manchester (gr. Mr. Pidsley), had an effective
croup of rare Odontoglossums, &c. The central
plant was Odontoglossum crispum " Corona-
tion," a very large, white flower, with heavy,
pale brown blotches — a distinct and handsome
form. With it were other good spotted Odonto-
glossums, including O. Pescatorei Charles-
worthii, and O. Ashlandense (polyxanthum X
Adrianas). Also good O. loochristyense, Cypri-
pedium callosum Sanders, Miltonia vexillaria
" Fairy Queen," and good Laelia purpurata.

M. Chas. Vuylsteke, Loochristy, ^Ghent,
staged a very beautiful collection of hybrid
Odonto.giossums, grown and flowered in his
usual excellent manner. The parentage of some
of these handsome hybrids can only be guessed,
but all ate beautiful. They comprised O.
amabile '• Goliath," O. graciosum, O. concin..
num Bijou, varieties of O. percultum, O. rubi-
cans, O. AVilckeinum " Thalia," and three very,
fin© forms of O. ardentissimum.

Messrs. Jas. C\.°her & SoKS, Cheltanliaa,

350

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 2, 1906.

staged a verj' bright and effective group, in
which were Laeho-Cattleya Canhamiana in
several very fine varieties, L.-C. Baroness
Schroder, L.-C. Ingrami, L.-C. G. S. Ball,
L.-C. Lady Miller, Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-
Mossise, and other hybrids ; a fine selection of
Lselia purpurata, including Schroderiana, Em-
press, and Duchess ; good Cattleya Mossias and
C. . Mendeli ; C. intermedia alba ; finely-
iiowered Miltonia vexillaria, the finest varieties
being Cobbiana and leucoglossa ; the pretty
Miltonia Endresii ; a fine Dendrobium nobile
superbum, D. atro-violaceum, and D. thyrsi-
florum ; some twenty excellent Cypripediums,
including Maudia; and the showy Cypher's
variety of Charlesianum ; a very fine selection
of Odontoglossum crispum, O. luteo-purpureiim
excellens, O. Pescatorei, O. Hallii, Oncidium
Marshalhanuni, phymatochilum, iS:c.

Messrs. Chaslesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, staged a magnificent group, replete with
good things, and especially in their fine h)'-
brids. At the back were specimens of Cymbi-
dium Lov.'ianum, groups of good Odontoglossum
crispum, Phalffinopsis Kiraestadtiana, and other
Orchids with graceful sprays of showy flowers.
At one end was a grand specimen of the
large, clear, yellow Ariguloa Clowesii, with
thirty-seven of its show)' Tulip-like flowers.
The Cattleya Mossia; included twelve white
varieties, and with them were two of
the fine white Cattleya Mrs. Myra Peelers.
Hybrid Odontoglcssums were well repre-
sented, some of the best remarked being O.
Othello, O. Phoebe, O. ardentissimum, " The
Countess," a pretty white flower, showily
blotched with rose-purple; two forms of O.
Lambeauianum, iS:c. Of Laelio-Cattleyas re-
markable were a selection of the pretty L.-C.
" Fascinator," one named King of Spain being
a very finely-coloured variety. L.-C. " G. S.
Ball" gave bright reddish orange colour; L.-C.
Aphrodite, variety Princess Ena, was a showy
crimson-purple lipped form, and L.-C. Haroldi-
ana, luminosa, calistoglossa, Dominiana, and
others in quantity exhibited various rich tints.
In the front was a pan of several species of
Anaectochilus, now seldom seen in such good
condition, and others noted were the white
and fragrant Brasso-Cattleya nivalis, the fine
dark-coloured Odontoglossum maculatum auri-
ferum, Masdevallia calura, and other Masde-
vallias, a fine specimen of Trichopilia crispa, a
good Coelogyne pandurata, with a spike of
emerald-green flowers, with blackish markings
on the lip, two good Cattleya Whytei, &c. All
■were well flowered, and the vigour of the plants
was remarkable.

J. RuTHERFORC^ Esq., Beachwood, Blackburn
(gr. Mr. Lupton), showed six white varieties of
Cattleya Mossiae.

Mr. J. ROBSON, Altrincham, staged a group of
Odontoglossums, &c., in which were the finely-
blotched O. crispum Mrs. F. Peelers, a singular,
sparsely-blotched O. Lambeauianum, good O.
Adrianae : the dark, crimson-purple Cypripe-
dium "The Sultan," resembling a fine C.
William Lloyd ; Oncidium Papilio, some early-
flowered Cattleya Gaskelliana, C. Mossias, &c.
W. J. Caparne, Esq., Guernsey, sent about 80
cut flowers of varieties of Cattleya Mossias.

M. A. Peeters, Brussels, sent three good
forms of his fine Odontoglossum Lambeau-
ianum, the variety lucidum being a very hand-
some form, heavily marked with claret purple.

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. XIr. Hopkins), sent Cypripedium barbatuin
'■ King of Spain," a very large form, with a fine
dorsal sepal resembling that of C. Lawrence-
anum ; and the richly-coloured C. Lawrence-
anum Hackbridgense.

Major G. L. Holford, CLE., C.V.O., Tet-
biiry (gr. Mr. Alexander), showed finelv-grown
plants of Cattleya Mossiae compacta and C. M.
Countess Grey, both prettv varieties.

W. A. BiLNEY, Esq., F"ir Grange, Wevbridge
(gr. Mr. Whitlock), sent Dendrobium Dafhousie-
anum luteum, with pale cream-}'ellow flowers,
with a dark maroon blotch.

The Hon. Walier Rothschild, Tring Park
(gr. Mr. A. Dye), showed Brasso-Catt.-Laelia
'Pring Park hybrid (L.-C. eximia Arnoldiana x
B. Digbyana), a pretty, pale, rosy-lilac flower,
with purple veining on the deeply-fringed lip.

Awards of Merit.
Phaius Doris (Cooksonias x Oakwoodiensis),
from Norman C. Cookson, Esq. (gr. Mr. 11. J.

Chapman). A noble, light rose-coloured h\-
brid, with claret-coloured markings on its
broad, openly-displayed labellum, which
strongly indicates P. Humblotii, which was one
of the parents of both the hybrids used in its
production.

Ulasdcvallia Harryana " Gaiton Park variety,'
from Jeke.miah Colman, Esq. (gr. Mr. W. P.
Bound). Flowers large and of a brilliant, dark,
reddish-scarlet colour.

Cattleya Mendeli " Mercury," from Messrs.
Hugh Low & Co. A very handsome form of the
C. M. Her Majesty class. Flowers large white,
tinged with rosy lilac, the front of the broad,
crimped lip magenta crimson.

Odontoglossum fercultum " Orion " (Rolfeae X
ardentissimum), from M. Chas. Vuylsteke. A
handsome and large flower, cream white, tinged
with rose, with the inner parts of the segments
marked with purple.

Odontoglossum ardentissimum " Venus," from
M. Chas. Vuylsteke. A very handsome white
variety, heavily and distinctly blotched with
violet-purple.

Odontoglossum pereultum "Juno,'' from M.
Jules Hye de Crom. A model flower, cream-
white, with a profusion of purplish-brown mark-
ings on the inner halves of the segments.

Cattleya Mossiie Mrs. Jeremiah Colman, from
Jeremiah Colman, F.sq. (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound).
A very distinct and fine flower of a bright rose-
pink tint, the sides of the labellum white, with
crimson markings in the centre. Lip large and
finely crimped.

THE ROSES.

It we may judge from the remarks made by
the visitors that reached the ear, Roses were
exhibited in a fullness, as regards the hybrid
Teas, pure Teas, Rambler, and potyantha sec-
tions, never exceeded at any show. The Queen
')f Flowers still remains the favourite with the
general public, more especially the above-named
sections.

The exhibits of Messrs. Ben J. Cant & Sons,
The Old Rose Gardens, Colchester, were placed
in a conspicuous position at the end of the
Orchid bank, making a beautiful display with
Ramblers, some of which were new ; seedling
Teas and Hybrid Teas shown in pots. Of Ram-
bler roses new to commerce, much was made
of Mrs. O. G. Orpen, a single-flowered variety,
the flowers being about 4 inches in diameter,
and of a light shade of pink. Others of this
class were Blush Rambler, Leuchtstern, Mrs.
F. W. Flight ; and among double-flowered
varieties. Crimson Rambler, Lady Gay, Doro-
thy Perkins, &c.

There were staged the double-flowered yellow
Banksian, Austrian Briars, in copper and yellow-
coloured varieties. Beautiful blooms were
noted of Frau Karl Druschki, Papa Lambert,
King Cole, Mad. Cadeau Ramey, Dean Hole,
Hugh Dickson, and Gustave Griinerwald.

Messrs. W. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross,
showed very extens.vejy Ramblers in variety, in-
cluding many of their own raising ; these vane,
ties and others forming the finest portion of the
display, although as flow-ers they are not of
much substance. Many of the specimens of
these Ramblers measured from 6 to 9 feet in
height and of proportionate breadth. We ob-
served V\altham, of a bright rosy tint, and white
centre ; Hiawatha, a deep crimson, also white
in the centre; Waltham Rambler, with immense
bunches of light pink blooms ; Lady Gay, pro-
fusely bloomed ; Crimson Rambler and others.
An old plant of Rose Madame Abel Chatenay,
well flowered, was noted amongst those put
up in the group Beneath these, dwarf pot
Roses were arranged, of which mention may be
made of the following choice varieties of H. P.'s,
Teas, and Hybrid Teas, viz. ; Dora (newi, H. T.,
an immensely large flower of a tender pink
shade, a very double flower ; Madame Chas. de
Luzy, a flower of the most delicate of flesh tints,
with a suspicion of fawn on first opening,
moderately double, and large; Grace Darling,
very fine ; Annie Williams, If, a good pillar
or rafter ross, with pendulous blooms ; Antoine
Rivoire ; Le Progres, H. T., of a pretty fawn
tint ; the bright-coloured D. R. Williamson,
grandly flowered ; Prince de Bulgarie, H. T.,
an exquisitely formed flower of the Niphetos
form, in tint a tender flesh changing to wnite
as regards the outer petals ; Duchess of Albany,
H. T., a fine bloom of a deep pink colour,
which, before it is fully open, is of noisette

shape ; Frau K. Druschki ; William Askew, a
fine, closely-built, pink-coloured, H. T. ; the
delicately timed Pharisaer, H. T. ; the loosely-
built but brilliant crimson-tinted Etoile de
France, H. T. ; Jean Ducher, Boadicea, Fisher
Holmes, Madam? Hostc, Marquise Litta, and
other old favourites completed the display.

An equallv large bank was shown by Mr.
Chas. Turner, of The Royal Nurseries, Sloujh,
the display being helped out by a number"of
Souvenir de la Malmais^n and Tree Carnations,
The rear part of the bank was largely made up
of Rambler Roses in variety, blush crimson,
pink, single and double-fiowered varieties, inter-
spersed with H. P.'s, T.'s, and H. T.'s in some
diversity. Dwarf pot Roses — mostly new or
comparatively modern introductions — occupied
the front space. We observed examples of Mad.
Cadeau Ramey, Etoile de France, Souvenir de
Pierre Notting, Mrs. R. G. Sharman Crawford,
Mrs. Edward Mawley, Dean Hole, Caroline
Testout, Ulrich Brunner, Maman Cochet, and
the light pink-tinted Edith Turner.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate and
Barnet, were apportioned the corner of the large
marquee at the southern end, in which they set
up a gorgeous display of Rambler Roses, mostly
tall plants embedded in moss and surrounded
with dwarfer plants of the same varieties as the
central plants. Among the Ramblers were Mrs.
F. W. Flight and Turner's Crimson Rambler.
The new dwarf Perpetual Polyantha Rose Mrs.
W. H. Cutbush, with semi-double flowers of
bright rose tint, and blooming whilst about 1
foot high, was shown.

Messrs. Paul & So.v, The Old Nurseries, Ches-
hunt, X., were given the opposite corner of the
marquee, which they filled with Roses in pots ;
dwarfs, standard, and Ramblers of large size,
and considerable variety which were placed in
the back line. The H. T. Madame E. Cocteau,
occupied the central place, a standard with about
a dozen flowers. The bloom is of large size,
and fairly double in build until it ages. The
tint is of a light shade of pink. Elise Fougier is a
white Tea Rose of the build of Marechal Niel ;
Peace is another white-flowered Tea, of a more
globular shape, but similarly drooping ; George
L. Paul, H. T., is a glowing purplish crimson,
tolerably full, with buds of filbert shap? ; David
Harum, H. T., is a flower with recurving petals,
and a pleasing tint of rose. Other varieties
noted were Frau K. Druschki, L'Innocence,
H. T., Gustave Grunewald, H. T., Souvenir de
Pierre Notting, Mad. Jenny Guillemot, Mildred
Grant, Mad. Ravaiy, Betty (a very loose, large
bloom of a rosy fawn tint), Spenser, Nellie
Johnstone, T. (new) (of nice form, white, with a
.shade of pink in it), Richmond (a fine crimson,
but possessing but few petals), and .Mrs. A.
Cheales.

Mr. G. Mount, the Rose Nurseries, Canter-
bury, was the exhibitor of a choice collection
in the smaller tent, cut blooms and potted ex-
amples of Ramblers and Polyanthas in variety
forming the chief features. Very fine blooms of
the following varieties were observed : Capt.
Hayward, Clio, Bessie Brown (extra good),
Kaiserine Augusta Victoria, Mrs. John Laing,
Mad. A. Chatenay, General Jacqueminot, Cathe-
rine Mermet, and Frau Karl Druschki, whose
blooms were probably the best in the show.
These were exhibited in perfection and consider-
able number. Mr. Mount's Roses were of such
superior quality on this occasion that we believe
he only narrowly missed winning the Veitchian
Cup, awarded for the best exhibit in the show.

Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent,
made a fine display of the Rambler Dorothy
Perkins, using the plants, which were trained
fan-wise, as a background to an exhibit of
Gloxinias and herbaceous Calceolarias.
FERNS.
There were only two groups, but each was of
an imposing character ; being limited to space,
they were carried up as high as possible. There
were two First Class Certificates given and one
Award of Merit.

Mr. H. B. May, Upper Edmonton, filled the
space allotted him to its utmost capacity. In
the centre was a fine plant of Cibotium Schiedei,
elevated nearly 20 feet ; below this was a fine
specimen of Polypodium Mayi, elevated plants
of Nephrolcpis davallioides furcans, and others.
Polypodium Schneideri was good. A fine speci-
men of Drynaria quercifolicB stood out promi-
nently. Asplenium scandens, growing up a tree

TUNf

i90(;.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

6-0 \

trunk, was a unique specimen. A large speci-
men of I'olypodium congugatum e-tood out well.
The pretty I'teris scaberula was seen in its best
form. Platyceriums of the choicest sorts and
Lomaria attenuata with brightly-tinted fronds,
also Davailias, including the best varieties of
the Fijiensis type, were well shown. A plant of
IJidymochlffina truncatula, with young fronds of
a remarkably bright hue, was effective. Lygo-
diums in several varieties were in excellent con-
dition. Adiantums included many of the
choicest sorts. A. tetraphyllum, cardiochlaena,
Nephrolepis Mayi, and congesta were interesting
forms of this now popular class of Ferns. In
I'teris the varieties Summers! and Childsi were
seen in good form : if we could get these from
spores and grow them in large quantities they
would be among the most popular ferns we
have, but, unfortunately, neither of them pro-
duce spores. Nephrolepis txaltata superba was
honoured with a First Class Certificate. This is
an improved form of one we had under the name
of Westoni.

Messrs. J. Hill & Son, Lower Edmonton, put
up an imposing group, the only fault being that
it was rather crowded and many choice plants
were not seen at their best. In the centre was a
very line specimen of Platycerium grande ; the
long drooping fertile fronds were well developed.
I'lalycerium Veitchi and P. Hilli were also well
shown. Large specimens of Gleichenia spelun-
c^, medullaris, dichotoma, and flabellata were
in fine condition. In Adiantums, many choice
varieties were shown. A. Veitchi was well
coloured, also the pretty A. tinctum, A. curs'a-
tum, A. reniforme. A. assamicum, and the t>eau-
tiful, though rarely seen, A. Ilendersoni. In
Pteris, P. nobilis was in beautiful form, also P.
Mariesi and P. reginae cristata. Davailias in-
cluded the choice small-growing parvula and
pedata, in fine condition, also P. Veitchi, P.
Fijiensis elegans. P. Novae-Zealanica, which we
rarely see, was good. Others of the larger-
growing sorts Avere also well shown. In Asple.
iiiums, some good things were seen. A. margina-
ti m gave a distinct shade of colour. A. squamu.
latum (of the Nidus type), with erect fronas with
a bright deep green surface, growing nearly erect
with fronds about 21 inches long and 2 inches
broad. -A large plant of Polypodium aureum
gi'.;anteum was submitted for a Certificate, but
Jailed to gain the distinction. It is, however, a
useful variety for market work ; the large fronds
have a graceful, drooping habit, and, when
young, are of a beautiful glaucous hue. The
group included numerous other beautiful Ferns.
Lomaria L. Herminieri and several others with
tinted fronds gave colour to the group.

Messrs. S.\nder & Suns, St. Albans, again
showed a fine specimen of Po'ypndium Knightje
in a susp;nded basket ; the long, drooping fronds
being most effective.

GROUPS OF PLANTS.

Messrs. J..iMES Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, put up a grand group of foliage
plants. A number of brilliant Anthuriums, in-
cluding the beautiful Rose Laing, interspersed
with showy Codiaeums (Crotons), choice Ferns,
handsome Dracaenas, Anthuriums, Aralias,
Marantas, Alocasias, with here and there a
touch of colour provided by a flowering speci-
men of Blandloidia nobilis, Tillandsia zebrina,
or Anthurium Scherzerianum. Nepenthes ar-
ranged on tall stands draped with Asparagus
plumosus, and tall plants of Aralia elegantis-
sima, etc., gave a pleasing relief to the group.

Messrs. Veitch had also many new green-
house plants in flower. Rehmannia angulata has
been often described in these columns, also
Lobelia tenuior, both of which were shown in
good style. We also noticed a fine batch of
Gerberas in many choice colours, Kalanchoe
flammula, Schizanthus hybrids, Senecio auricu-
latissimus, etc.

Messrs. Wm. Bull & Sox, King's Road,
Chelsea, showed choice stove and greenhouse
foliage plants, including a magnificent specimen
— 5 feet or more tall — of Dracaena Victoria, the
plant being " feathered " to the pot level, with
its beautiful foliage: C'aladiums, Codiaeums
(Crotons), Aralias, Pandanus, Tillandsia ze-
brina, and others of similar character. Sprays
of the brilliant Bougainvillea Maud Chettle-
burgh, illustrated in our issue for November 1-,
1904, were staged in the foreground.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, Surrey, staged a collection of foliage

plants, Codiaeums (Crotons), Marantas, Aralias,
Screw Pines, Caladiums, and others of equal
beauty. A fine specimen of Anthurium Waroc.
queanum furnished a suitable centrepiece to
the whole.

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, Herts, al.so
showed a large specimen of the last-mentioned
plant in a group of foliage plants. They had
the new Cycas Micholitzii, a specimen plant of
Polypodium Knightias elevated on a tall stand, a
white variegated form of Asparagus Sprengerl,
the handsome F'urcraea Watsoniana, and other
rare and new plants of equal beauty. A few
flowering plants were included — Gloriosa Roth-
schildiana, Blandfordia nobilis, etc.

Sir Alex. Henderson, Bart., Buscot Park,
Berks (gr., Mr. Bastin), filled a considerable-
area with Codiaeums (Crotons), interspersed
with small Palms.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, furnished
the eastern end of the big tent with an exhibit
of much merit. A prominent bay of star Cinera-
rias occupied the centre, and on either side
were two smaller bays. One was composed of
Schizanthus — a mass of flowers — another con-
sisted of Gloxinias of the choicest strain, and
including such glorious things as Reading Scar-
let, Her Majesty — the best white Gloxinia :
Duchess, &c. Herbaceous Calceolarias and
Streptocarpus formed the principal subjects of
the remaining bays, but each was varied with
other subjects, while separating each group were
bands of tuberous-rooting Begonias, clumps of
Nicotiana hybrids, and rows of .Streptocarpus,
with Ferns, Ca'adium Argyrites, Panicum, and
other light and ornamental foliage plants as an
edging to the whole.

Messrs. Jas. Carter & Co., 237, High Hol-
born, London, made a bright display at the
entrance to the long tent. They filled the right-
hand corner with a bank of Begonias and
Schizanthus, and around were masses of bril-
liantly-coloured Cinerarias, herbaceous Cal-
ceolarias, with small Ferns, Palms, etc., the
whole making a veritable bower of flowers. On
the centre table facing the entrance, Messrs.
Carter staged a bank of Cinerarias, followed by
others of Gloxinias, Schizanthus, and Sweet
Peas.

Messrs. Clibrans, Altrincham and Man-
chester, showed a mixed group of foliage and
flowering plants. They had a nice display of
tuberous-rooting Begonias, Ficus Parcelli with
Hydrangea-like foliage, the climbing Sollv par-
vifolia with charming blue flowers, Codiaeums
(Crotons), and many other subjects.

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Stamford and Peter-
borough, showed a small collection of green-
house plants, among which varieties of their
Cactus-flowering Pelargoniums were prominent.

Messrs. Heath & Son, Cheltenham, had a
mixed group of greenhouse plants — Verbenas,
show Pelargoniums, Carnations, Kalanchoe
flammula, etc.

Mr. T. A. HuMMERSTON, Epping, Essex,
showed plants of a new double rosy-pink Pelar-
gonium named The Pride of Essex.

Mr. A. J. A. Bruce, Chorlton-cum-Hardy,
Manchester, is well known as a most successful
grower of interesting insectivorous plants such as
Sarracenias, Dionaeas, Darlingtonias, I^roseras,
Pinguiculas, &c., of which plants he regularly
exhibits a group at this important show. His
display was quite up to the standard of previous
years ; indeed, Sarracenia flava and its varieties
were finer than ever before exhibited by Mr.
Bruce. A nice patch of Dionasa Muscipula was
interesting as being shown in flower.

Messrs. Ker & Son, Aigburth Nursery, Liver-
pool, showed 150 plants of Hippeastrums
(Amaryllis), quite the finest and handsomest
varieties in commerce. Jasper is small, but
the colouring is unique, being cherry or cerise.
The King is new. The flowers are large, the
inflorescence having five " pips." The general
culture and the excellence of the strain seen in
this collection are deserving of much praise.

Messrs. Garraway, Durdham, Clifton, Bris-
tol, showed plants of a giant strain of
Schizanthus.

Mr. Wm. Iceton, Putney Park Lane, Putney,
showed Lily of the Valley of remarkable size
and purity arranged in a setting of foliage, and
flowering plants such as Boronias, Liliunis,
.Saxifraga pyramidalis, Astilbe (Spiraea), with
Caladiums, Palms, etc.

Mr. T. Jan.noch, Dersingham, near Sandring-
ham, furnished one end of the centre staging in

the large tent with retarded plants of Lilac and
clumps of Lily of the Valley.

Rhododendrons. — Messrs. John Waterer ft
Sons, Ltd., Bagshot, Surrey, displayed a group
of small pot plants of Rhododendrons. The
group was interspersed with Japanese Maples,
to furnish pleasing greenery. Pink Pearl was
prominent, also the new White Pearl. Other
handsome varieties were Kate \Vaterer, Mrs.
Wm. Agnew, Duchess of Connaught, Mrs. Hol-
ford, etc.

Messrs. W,\r. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross,.
Herts, showed trusses of Rhododendrons in
baskets.

Messrs. R. & G. Cuthdert, Southgate, Mid-
dlesex, showed Azaleas which appeared more
beautiful than ever. The group was extensive,
and was displayed in excellent taste in a central
" bay " of the white Occidentalis and the
yellow Anthony Koster — an excellent combina-
tion of colouring, with other banks at either
end. This furnished one of the showiest groups
in the large tent. The variety J. C. Van Thol is.
of a unique shade of red ; the bunches of large,,
well-formed flowers at once attract attention.
Other varieties worthy of mention are 11 Tassa
(small, semi-double flowers), Occidentalis, and
Fairy Queen.

Gloxinias. — Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons,
Swanley, Kent, staged a batch of these plants in
a setting of Maidenhair F'ern, with a back-
ground of Rambler Roses. The plants were
very floriferous, and embraced varieties of all
colours from pure white to reds and blues,
many being pleasingly spotted. A plant of the
variety Sherlock Holmes was carrying two
dozen flowers. Messrs. Cannell also displayed
Cannas, among which were seen many new
varieties. The new Frau E. Kracht is flesh
coloured. West Grove is also new, darker in
shade than the last-named. Another fine new
variety is Konsul W. Vellnagee, a spotted
flower, the ground being yellow, with scarlet
spots.

Messrs. John Peed & Son, Roupell Park Nur-
series, Vvest Norwood, staged a bank of Gloxi-
nias set with Maidenhair Fern, and small
Cocos Palms. The group sloped from the back
and terminated in two raised clumps on either
side of the foreground, the desig.n being very
pleasing. Many rich colours were present, and
of these we may mention the beautiful shade of
mauve seen in the variety Countess of Ilchester
and the scarlet of King Edward Vll.

Messrs. Sutton & Son showed plants of their
strain of Gloxinia, and some well-grown ex-
amples were s;en in the floral group of Messrs.
Carter & Co., both of which are referred to-
above.

Mr. Geo. Abends, Ronsdorf, Germany, dis-
played forms of Primula obconica, with large
flowers, with a wide range of colours.

Mr. W. Robert Chaplin, Waltham Cross,
displayed single and double varieties of
Petunias.

The firm of " Le Lion,'' 122, Heyveld, Mont
St. Amand, Gand, displayed a group of about
50 plants of market Palms, all of the species
Cocos Weddeliana and the comparatively new
Phcenix Rosbelini.

Messrs. Carter Page & Co., 52 and 53, Lon-
don Wall, showed vases of Cactus Dahlias, all
well grown and brilliantly coloured, but out of
season.

Clematis. — Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son,
Woking Nursery, Surrey, had a batch of large
flowering Clematis. The plants were not so
severely trained as is sometimes done, but' they
lost none of their beauty from this fact. In the
centre of the display was a fine plant of the
claret-coloured C. Jackmanni rubra ; near by
was the large flowered Fairy Queen. Lady
Northcliffe is new (the shade of lavender-blue
being very pleasing). Other good things noticed
were Lady C. Neville, Princess of Wales, Belle
of Woking (double), and Ville de Lyon.

Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., Worcester, put
up a large batch of trained plants of Clematis,
arranged without overcrowding, so that their
full beauty was at once apparent. A number
of small plants of Japanese Maples occupied
the spaces between the pots, but they were not
sufficiently tall to be obtrusive. The group was
-I'ell balanced, the flowers not over-large, but
all showed good culture. The new King liuward
VII. was prominent. President has large flowers
of deep heliotrope shade with light ribs — a very
fine variet}'. A plant of Vriesia splendens was

35.

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June

1900.

shown in flower, and a new double Tropaeolum
T. Smithianum. Pillar Roses and Acer I^egundo
furnished a suitable background.

Caladiiit::!.— Messrs. John Laing & Sons,
Forest Plill, showed a batch of Caladiums, not
so large, perhaps, as is sometimes seen, but
none the less beautiful, the colours being very
finely developed. Flambeau has deep red in the
centres of the leaves, which loses itself toward
the margins in a deep green. Mad. Imbert
Jvoechlin is of the palest yellow, approaching
green, with a few red markings on the lamina.
Baronne Albert de Rothschild is also a pale
coloured variety. Bicolor sericeum resembles
Flambeau, save that is much smaller in leaf.
Colonel John Hay is new. The groundwork is
reddish-pink, with a few paler maculations at
intervals.

CARNATIONS.

One of the most gorgeous exhibits of Carna-
tions was one shown by the President of the
i\ational Carnation Society, Martin R. Sjiith,
Esq., flayes, Kent (gr. Mr. i31ick), and arranged
111 such a manner as to face the entrance to
No. 4 tent. The group was a large one, and
every flower was staked into a perlectly perpen-
uicuiar and ngia position, the plants themselves
being first-class representations ot good cultiva-
tion. In geneial effect, the picture was one of
pink coloui m many shades, with a little yellow
here ana there over the surface. Ihe yellow
varieties were Cecilia, and a new boroer >_arna-
tion named Mrs. Will Fane, the latter being put
up for certificate, but passed. A pure white bor-
der Carnation named bir Calahau was also new,
as were several others, but in the main the
varieties were popular ones.

W. U. James, Jj-sq., West Dean, Chichester
(gr. Mr. \\ . H. Smith), made an exhibit of Carna-
tion plants, each ot which was the size of a large
ipecinien. Some had about forty fiowers upon
mem, and all were furnished witn splendid toli-
age, such as is the surest indication of good cul-
ture. The varieties included Souvenir de la Mai-
maison. Princess of Wales, the new white bor-
oer variety Mrs. Willie James, Cecilia, and
others.

Mr. A. F. DuTTO.v, The Nurseries, Iver,
Bucks, at the opposite end of the same tent, put
up one 01 his charming exhibits of cut blooms
'H tree Carnations. .■^uch distinct and pure-
c jlourjd flowe.s as Xn-.as Fve, Fnchantress, Fair
.Maid, and Ilarlowaruen, etc., had a very ex-
cellent effect, arranged as they were in tall
glasses of trumpet and other shapes.

Another group ot cut Carnations was one
shown by Mr. C. Engelman.s, Horneybrook
Nurser.es, Saifron Walden, Eosex. These were
bunched with very long stems, and the flowers
were of excellent quality, all being tree or
border Carnations.

Messrs. (iEo. Boyes & Co., Aylestone Nur-
series, Leicester, had an exhibit of English-
raised tree Carnation plants m flower, ana,
in addition, a few cut blooms, including two
good varieties as follows : Victory, a yellow
ground flower, edged and flaked with rea, and
lirowning, a white flower marked sparingly with
pale red.

- Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park
Nursery, Enfield, showed a collection of Car-
nations of excellent quality, about half being
*'tree" varieties, the remainder of the Souvenir
de la Malmaison type. Two immense plants of
*' Malmaison " Princess of Wales were displa3'ed,
the one with 53 flowers and buds, the other with
49. The dark clove-coloured II. J. Jones was
jirominent ; we may also mention the white Nell
Gwynne and Duchess of Westminster.

Mr. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, Surrey,
had a row of pot plants of Carnations, and vases
of cut blooms, with Asparagus Sprengeri inter-
mingled, and an edging of Marechal Niel Roses.
A very pleasing display of popular varieties.

The beautiful group of flowers staged by
Messrs. W.M. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, Lon-
don, N., in the big tent, was largely composed
of Carnations. The\' had beautiful specimens of
the Malmaisons Duchess of Westminster ; Dragut
(of their own raising), a grand scarlet-coloured
variety ; King Arthur, also brilliant scarlet, a
very regular double flower, and smooth in form ;
Maggie Hodgson, deep crimson ; Pride of West-
bury, crimson and excellent in form ; Trojan,
white.

Mr. H. Elliott, Hassocks Nurseries, Has-
socks. Sussex, had among other kinds of Carna-

tions his new varieties H. Elliott, Elliott's
Queen, England (a very bright scarlet flower),
Snow, and Florence Wooller, all English-raised
flowers of merit.

Other smaller displays of Carnations were
shown by Mr. Chas. Turner, Slough, who
worked them into his handsome group of Roses ;
Messrs. He.\th & Son, Cheltenham ; Messrs.
Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, in whose group we no-
ticed some grand specimens of Lieut. Peary — a
pure white flower ; Messrs. Bell & Sheldon,
Castle Nursery, Guernsey, had a very pretty
stand of popular varieties; and Mr. C. F.
Waters, Balcombe, Sussex.

BEGONIAS.

Very excellent was the stand of Begonias
staged by Me=srs. Blackmore & Langdon,
Twerton Hill Nursery, Bath. The flowers
were all double varieties, and the beautiful
shades of colours seen in this flower, com-
bined with large size and e-xcellence of shape,
were well represented in this group. Francis is
a new crenated variety of soft salmon-pink
shade. Colonel Turner is a good crimson
flower, large, and well balanced. Golden Eagle,
Alice (new). Avalanche, and Millicent (new, a
delicate salmon shade) were a few of the more
notable varieties seen in this collection.

Adjoining this last-named exhibit was a
stand of the same class of flowers shown
by Messrs, Thos. S. Ware, Ltd., Ware's
Nursery, leltham, Middlesex. Here again
were seen flowers of exceptional quality.
We noticed the large Beatrice Mabbet (white,
with pale yellow centre), Mrs. Moger (sal-
mon), the charming white Mary Pope,
Margaret Gwillim (a large crenated flower
of deep yellow shade). Lady Coventry, Mad.
Granby, etc.

Messrs. John Laing & Sons, Forest Hill,
London, staged plants of tuberous-rooting Be-
gonias, in many excellent colours — scarlets,
whites, yellow, crimsons, reds, etc. Lady Gos-
ford (salmon-pink), and Lady Chas. Beresford
are two excellent double-flowered varieties.

A number of plants of a small flowering
double Begonia with long growths was shown
by G. J. Morris, Esq., Hendon (gr., Mr. A.
Simmonds).

ALPINE AND OTHER HARDY PLANTS.

For present purposes we employ this very
general and comprehensive term, more particu-
larly in respect to the Alpine and herbaceous
flowering plants. We would warn exhibitors
of the danger of having too much of one thing,
and urge them to show more originality. They
show too much of the spirit of " follow my
leader." We refer more especially to the dupli-
cation of little rockery exhibits, which are too
frequently arranged with but small regard to the
plants employed. There are exceptions, of
course, and these are welcome.

Credit is due to Messrs. Cutbush & Sox,
Highgate, for their well-conceived rock and
water garden out-of-doors.

Absolute novelties were rare; indeed, the only
two plants receiving awards are very old garden
acquaintances.

In the opening of the long tent near the en-
trance Messrs. J as. Carter & Co., High Hol-
born, had a most attractive exhibit of Alpines
on rockwork, a large number of showy and
choice flowering plants being noted. Especially
good was Saxifraga pyramidalis, with its snowy
panicles of blossoms.

Messrs. Paul c^ Son, Old Nurseries, Cheshunt,
on the opposite side of the tent, had a small ar-
rangement of Alpines, with Paeonies, Flag Irises,
Globe Flowers, and the like.

Very showy and good were the Poppies from
Mr. H. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, Devon, such
varieties as Matchless, Loveliness, and Winnie,
the last with crimson flowers, being conspicu-
ous.

The rockery exhibit from Messrs. Backhol"se
it So.N, V'ork, gave one unlimited pleasure, and
its naturalness and conception testified to an in-
timate knowledge of the work. Here were seen
crack and crevice occupied by plants in the most
realistic manner, while the lower levels — moun-
tain pastures, as it were — sparkled with many
a bright Alpine gem. In this way we saw the
vernal Gentian, the lovely Myosotis rupicola,
many Orchises, and the like. Very pretty, too,
were the Ramondias, Edraianthi, Trilliums, iVc. ;

while the curious Iris paradoxa, Gerberas, and
other things called for more than a passing
glance.

Messrs. Bees, Ltd., Wapping Buildings,
Liverpool, had an exhibit teeming with rare and
choice plants ; but the arrangement, and the
endless :>rray of paper strips with names robbed
the group of some of its attraction. Silene
acaulis was a lovel}' picture here. Other notable
liowers included Lithospermum Gastoni, Ra-
mondias, Conandron ramondioides. Iris gracil-
lipes, the cob-web House Leeks, &c.

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Cheshire, had a
rmall exhibit, in wnich Globe Flowers, Lilies,
Saxifraga Mac-nabiana, and many other species
of this genus played a part. The pmk-flowered
Daisy Alice, and Primula sikkimensis were also
noted in good flowering plants.

The hard}' perennials and Lilies from Messrs.
W.vllacic 6t Co., Colchester, constituted a valu-
able feature, not merely as a striking exhibit as
a whole, but in the style and arrangement of the
man)' pot-grown plants the group was more than
nrdinarily instructive. There were not such
Uiasses of meaningless cut flowers. The general
arrangement was excellent, and we emphasise
the point by reason of their importance to those
desiring to learn. The Lilies in the group formed
quite a feast of these flowers alone, and we noted
fine displays of L. excelsum, L. Hansoni, L.
Martagon, and its variety album, with small,
gracefully recurving blossoms, the lovely L.
rubellum, L. venustum, L. longiflorum
superbum, and others, each kind well displayed
and in goodly numbers. We were distinctly
pleased with the light, elegant forms of the
Ixias, the airy and natural grace of Heucheras
and Columbines, and with the unique beauty of
the lovely Calochortus, to name but a few of
the stronger items in the group. Then, in addi-
tion, came a blaze of 'the crimson Oriental
Poppy, just such a colony as one might wish for
111 the garden on a summer day ; the all too
rarely seen Brodiea coccinea, with its scarlet-
green-tipped Correa-like blossoms, on stems MA
feet high ; and there were many other things
equally worthy of note. Continuing round the
opposite side of the table a rockery had been
arranged, and here were seen many of the more
showy Alpine plants and other plants, as Cypri-
pediums, Fritillaria kamschatkensis, Ramondias,
Gentiana verna, and many besides.

Mr. Amos Perry, WTnchmore Hill, contributed
a big bank of the more showy perennials, in
which such items as Globe Flowers, Camassias,
Liliuin auratum, L. longiflorum, L. speciosum
in variety, many fine masses of Geums, G.
lleldreichi for example, Eremuri, Incarvilleas,
and others were strong and boldly shown. The
new Phlox P. canadensis Laphami, Perry's
variet)', was quite a feature, and here, as in the
open air, the plants were a mass of blossoms.
Very striking were the towering inflorescences
of Rheum palmatum tanguticum atrosan-
guineum, the many flowers of the Ins
.Susiana, I. Korolkowi, &c., and, with many
smaller groups in the foreground, with water-
Lilies, made a goodly display.

The Anemones from Messrs. Reamsbottom &
Co., Alderborough, Kings Co., Ireland, were
showy and good as usual, embracing much
colour variety.

Messrs. Geo. Bij.nyard & Co., Maidstone, had
a showy group of hardy perennials, in which
such things as Globe Flowers, Eremuri, Phlox
canadensis, Pyrethrums, very fine Lupins,
Ixias, Saxifraga .Mac-nabiana, Irises, and many
others were freely introduced.

Messrs. Bakers, Wolverhampton and Codsall,
had a central rockery exhibit with Pansies and
other things at right and left. Saxifragas, Au-
brietias. Gentians, Primula rosea, P. involu-
crata, Ourisia coccinea, Androsace chumbyi,
very charming, Trilliums, &c., were freely em-
ployed.

Messrs. H. & A. Trowek, Redhill, Surrey,
had a large group of Spanish Iris, Lily of the
Valley, Eremuri, &c.

Mr. Maurice Prichard, Christchurch, Hants,
had groups in three places, one devoted to
Alpines on rockwork, another of the bolder
perennials, and a third of the lovely Anchusa
italica " Dropmore variety." In the perennials
Eremurus Elwesianus was especially fine and
vigorous.

Messrs. Clibrans, Altrinchain, had a large
display of Aubrietias in variety, and Mr. Wm.
Sydenham, Tamworth, in addition to Pansies

June 2, 1906.J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

and Violas, had many hardy flowers in the cut
state.

Messrs. Bare & Sons, Covent Garden, London,
were not this year in their old-time place, but
on the opposite side of the tent, and, as usual,
had an extensive exhibit of all hardy season-
able flowers. For example, in company with
the latest Tulips, there were the early Gladioli,
lovely masses of Spanish Irises, Trilliums,
Orchises, Ramondias, Gentians, Lupins, Iris
Susiana, Heucheras in variety, and a host be-
side. Bamboos, Acers, and other important sub-
jects materially assisted to a very excellent dis-
play, into which much thought and tasteful ar-
rangement had entered.

Mr. B. Ladhams, Southampton, had a fine
display, chiefly of cut flowers, and here we were
especially impressed with a fin« mass of Aquile-
tua Stuarti, Ladhams' variety, in which the
broader, longer sepals are quite a feature. Per-
pcitual flowering Pinks in pots were distinctly
good and pleasing. \Vith these a large array of
other plants were shown.

Mr. E. PoUPART, Twickenham, had a fine lot
of the Victoria strain of Lily of the Valley, the
spikes very strong and good.

Mr. R. C. NorcUTT, Woodbridge, Suffolk, had
a laige bank of the more showy perennials, Pop-
pies, Tulips, Irises. Pyrethruins, and the like ;
whik> a similar lot an much greater variety
came from Messrs. G. & A. Clark, Dover. The
latter linn, in another position, set up a rockery
exhibit.

The rockery exhibit from Mr. H. C. Pulham,
Klsenham, was nicely arranged, and a large
number of choice plants were employed judici-
ously. Armeria Laucheana was most charming,
as were Myosotis rupicola, Cypripediums, the
rose and white Alpine Asters, Saxifraga longi-
folia, and others.

The Gmi.DFORD Hardy Plant Nursery (Mr.
A. R. Upton) was responsible for a very charm-
ing collection of rock plants and small shrubs
suitable therefor, and we noted with pleasure
some exquisite bits of colour here, as, e.g.,
Haberlea rhodopensis, a lovely mass of scarlet
Owrisia, ihe very beautiful Oxalis ermcaphylla,
with white cups and glaucus leafage, the Edel-
weiss, Cob-web House Leeks, a rich carpet of the
vernal Gentian, &c. — a most pleasing exhibit.

Mr. G. Reuthe, Keston, Kent, likewise had a
choice exhibit, into which many of the rare or
choice Saxifragas were shown freely. Cypripe-
dium ma;ranthum. Iris cristata, Arenaria pur-
purascens, the black Fritillary, Onosniataurica,
Aquilegia glandulosa were among notable
things. A large array of Tulips came from the
same source.

Messrs. R. SMITH & Co., Worcester, had an
exhibits of Irises, Pasonies, Eremuri, &c.

Messrs. ]. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, had a bold
rockery exhibit, with many covering Alpines
and shrubs.

From the Craven Nursery, Clapham, Lancas-
ter, Mr. A. Farrer brought many of the choicest
Alpines seen at the Temple Show this year, and
we have never in thirty years seen anything to
approach the Daphne rupestris (see Awards) for
choice or exquisite colouring. Edraianthus ser-
pyllifolius covering a slope with violet cups, the
vernal Gentian naturally forming its own turf,
as it were, Geura reptans, golden, white, and
coloured Ramondias, Androsaces in plenty,
Arisarum proboscideum, with curiously hooded
spathes, Saxifraga aizoon rosea, S. a. lutea, S. a.
flavescens, these are a few of the gems of which
words are inadequate to convey an impression
of their beauty. Tiarella superba — we presume
a form of T. cordifolia — was also seen for the
first time ; but we think there is greater beauty
in this plant if allowed to come quite naturally
in the open. We are impressed vrith its value
as a flowering subject.

Messrs. Geo, Jackman & Sons, Woking, also
contributed their quota to the hardy Alpine ex-
hibits, and a nicely-arranged group was the re-
sult, many plants already noted being admirably
shown.

St. Brigid Anemones in the cut state came
from Mr. N. Lowis, Bridgwater.

SOME CUT FLOWERS.
The displays of cut flowers, apart from the
Carnations and Roses noted elsewhere, com-
prised Tulips, Sweet Peas, Pansies, etc. The
Sweet Peas are at this season fresh with us.
The group of these flowers shown by Mr. R.
Sydenham, Tenby Street, Birmingham, was

very prettily arranged, and included such finely-
coloured varieties as Coccinea, Salopian, Miss
WiUmott, Gorgeous, and the blue-fiowered
Nero, Countess Radnor, and the Lady Grisel
Hamilton. From Mr. Henry Eckford, \\em,
Salop, came a large and representative gathering
of Sweet Peas, all very pleasing and good.
Mr. H. J. Jones, Lewisham, had a fine display
of Sweet Peas, and an equally good display of
double and single Zonal Pelargoniums. Among
the latter we may select Maid of Honour (sal-
mon), St. Cecilia (salmon-scarlet), and Alfred
Tennyson (rich scarlet), as especially note-
worthy. Fire Dragon is of the cactus-petalled
type. Messrs. Dobbie i Co., Rothesay, well
maintained their reputation for Sweet Peas,
Pansies, and Violas, and in each case the flowers
were admirably staged and in great variety.
Many pretty Columbines were also noted.
Messrs. Watkins & Simpson, Tavistock Street,
Covent Garden, W.C, had a beautiful collec-
tion of Sweet Peas, some of the varieties, such
as Frank Dolly (blue), Flora Norton (blue),
Evelyn Byatt (rose-scarlet), being exceptionally
fine. From Messrs. Alex. Dickson & Son,
Royal Avenue, Belfast, came a varied assort-
ment of Tulips, in which Cottage, Darwin and
English kinds were seen to advantage. Messrs.
Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden,
made a fine display with Darwin and other
Tulips. Messrs. Wm. Bull & Sons, Chelsea,
staged a nice batch of the ten-week Stock
"White Excelsior." Messrs. B. S. Williams,
Holloway, contributed a display of Tulips, Ane-
mones, Columbines, Pasonies, Gladiolus^ Pop-
pies, Scillas, and similar flowers. Messrs.
Gilbert & Son, Bourne, Lincolnshire, set up a
display of Anemones, including the rich King
of Scarlets. Mr. V. Slade, Taunton, Somer-
set, had a group of cut flowers of single and
double Zonal Pelargoniums. Messrs. Hogg &
Robertson, St. Mary Street, Dublin, contri-
buted a good display of Tulips and Ranunculus,
the former being strongly represented in Dar-
win kinds. Messrs. G. Stark & Son, Great
Kyburgh, Norfolk, had Sweet Peas in many good
varieties. Messrs. Alex. M. Wilson, Spilsby,
Lines., had a large display of Cottage and
Darwin Tulips, the flow-ers of Scarlet Beauty
being exceptionally fine for so late a date. Mr.
Howard Crane, Highgate, staged Violas, cut
flowers in sprays, and growing examples in
pans, that furnished a good idea of their garden
value. Messrs. Baker's, Wolverhampton, con-
tributed a pleasing bank of Zonal and other
Pelargoniums, Pansies, etc. Messrs. R. H.
Bath, Wisbech, had Tulips and Sweet Peas in
great variety ; another exhibitor of these last-
named flowers was Mr. C. W. Breadmore,
Winchester.

EXHIBITS ARRANGED OUT-OF-DOORS.

Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons, Ltd., Chelsea, ex-
hibited a number of most interesting introduc-
tions from China, viz., Meconopsis integrifolia,
with hairy ijrey foliage and globular canary-
yellow flowers ; M. punicea, with crimson
flowers ; Primula pulverulenta, well bloomed
and showy in colour of flowers ; P. orbicularis,
having primrose-yellow flowers supported on
tall stalks ; P. deflexa, with vivid blue-coloured
flowers ; P. sibirica, having lilac-coloured
flowers ; P. Veitchi, with bright purple-coloured
flowers in fair-sized corymbs ; P. Cockburni-
ana (orange-scarlet) ; Cypripedium tibeticum
(see fig. 139) : Androsaoe Henryi ; P^ony
Duchesse de Nemours ; and some grand spikes
of Eremurus robustus Elwesianus.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, Surrey, constructed a pretty ar-
rangement with hardy materials. The idea was
a half moon-shaped area of tall trees growing in
pots, consisting of Acers from Japan, and others
with pictural foliage, Olearia stellulata, purple-
leaved Beech, Hazel, Peach Prunus, variegated
Elder, Dimorphanthus Mandschuricus albo-mar-
ginatus, Ulmus punctata argentea-variegata ; U.
virginalis variegata, Ceanothus Gloire de Ver-
sailles, C. Veitchianus. Little groups of Cytisus
(Genista) hispanica, Rambler Roses, and a row
of Clematis in variety gave relief to the arrange-
ment.

Messrs. W. Cutbush & Son, in^ an extensive
rockwork, managed to display effectively and
naturally a large number of Alpine and
rock plants. There were masses of Orange
Globft Trollius, Iris Isevigata, Cypripedium

spectabile. Spiraea palmata, and other species.
Orchis foliosa and other hardy Orchids, Ramon-
dias, Primula japonica splendens, Funkia ja-
ponica, Ferns of diverse kinds, Gunnera, Sarra-
cenias, Lilies, and a quantity of miscellaneous
flowering plants ; in fact, an excess of this kind
of mater'al. A pond with water Lilies and other
aquatics gave the needed realism to this stage
scenery, which was carried out on a large scale
and with excellent effect.

Mr. M. Prichard, The Nursery, Christchurch,
exhibited about 12 plants of Anchusa italica
" Dropmore variety," which made a striking dis-
play with its bright blue flowers. The plants
measured 5 to 6 feet in height.

Messrs. Fisher, Son, & Sibray, Royal Nur-
series, Sheffield, had a large exhibit of pictural
trees in capital growth and condition, such as
they have sent to this show for several years
past, the Concordia Oaks, Japanese Maples,
pyramidal-trained Hollies, and many other
choice trees and shrubs being very noticeable.

Messrs. J. Waterer & Son, Ltd., nurserymen,
Bagshot, Surrey, had a showy exhibit of Kalmia
latifolia, Pink Pearl, and Frederick Waterer
Rhododendrons ; and a large quantity of ever-
green trees and shrubs, Japanese Acers, and
plants having variegated leaves.

Mr. David Russell, Essex Nurseries, Brent-
wood, exhibited largely trees and shrubs having
variegated foliage ; -hardy Azaleas, Clematises,
Lilacs, &c.

Of the same miscellaneous character, but with
more colour in it, was an exhibit from Messrs.
J. Cheal & Sons, nurserymen, Crawley, Sussex,
Pictural 'rees were the prevailing feature, and
the floral colour was afforded by Rhododen-
drons, Azalea pontica, A. mollis. Viburnum pli-
catum, and Cytisus of species.

Messrs. T. CRiPts & Son, Tunbridge Wells, ex.
hibited large numbers of Japanese Acers in great
variety, and variegated, and abnormal forms ot
other species of trees.

Topiary objects were, as usual, shown largely
by Messrs. W. Cutdush & Son, Highgate and
Barnet.

Messrs. R. Smith & Co., Worcester, had a
choice collection of Conifers, Acers, and Aza-
leas. Of the first-named, we noted examples of
Tsuga Hookeriana, Picea pungens glauca, Picea
Remontii, Pseudolarix Fortune!, Thuja gigantea
aurea, and Cedrus atlantica glauca.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent
Garden, made a nice show with these marvel-
lous objects of eastern art, miniature trees of
great age, and we noted that they had an un-
usually healthy appearance.

Messrs. W. Fromovv & Sons exhibited
Japanese Maples almost exclusively, the collec-
tion being a representative one.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, had an exhibit of Metrosideros flon-
bunda, the plants being most abundantly fur-
nished with their bottle brush-like spikes of
crimson flowers, recalling oTd times.

Messrs, Carter & Co., High Holborn, Lon-
don, exhibited pigmy trees, &c., from Japan, and
among them an Oak reputed to be 250 years old.

Floral Committee.
AWARDS.

Hippeastrum Jasper. — This was one of the
varieties in Messrs. Ker & Sons' exhibit that
represented new shades of rose and pink colours.
"Jasper" may be described as purplish rose,
the centre of each segment towards the base
being of brilliant red. There was no trace of
green or any other colour, and the flower was
of good form, the segments being imbricated
and reflexed. (Award of Merit.)

Hippeastrum Rose Madder. — This variety we
considered to be the best of the many distinct
Hippeastrums shown by Messrs. Ker & Sons,
Aigburth, Liverpool. It was also recommended
an Award of Merit by the unanimous vote of
the Floral Committee. The form of the flower
with the very broad, much-reflexed perianth seg-
ments is well shown in the sketch made at the
exhibition by Mr. Worthington Smith, and re-
produced at Fig. 345. We need only say further
that the flower was about 7 inches across, and
of a rich rose colour, with brilliant red at the
base of each segment, and a trace of faint green
colour at the base of the stamens.

Begonia, Alice. — A fine double flower of good
form, and pale buff colour, with rose edgings to
the petals. One of the best of the " Picotee "
type. (Award of Merit. 1

354

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Ju:^

1806.-^

B. Mrs. J . B. BlacJitnore. — A double variety
of clear rose colour, with wavy petals. (Award
of Merit.)

B. Milliccnt. — A double flower of rose-like
form, and of salmon-pink colouring (Award of
Merit.) The three tuberous-rooted Begonias
described above were shown by Messrs. Black-
MORE & Langdon.

Hardy Rhododendron Marchioness of Twccdah.
— The flowers are of rose colour, except the
uppermost segment, which is whitish, with yel-
low spotting. Shown by Messrs. J. Waterer &
Sons, Ltd., Bagshot. (Award of Merit.)

Clematis Lady Northclijfe. — This varietj^ has
large flowers of exquisite form, and of lavender
blue colour, but paler near the ribbing along
the centre of each segment. Shown by Messrs.
(;eo. Jackman & Sons, Woking. (Award of
Merit.)

Carnation Mrs. Willie James. — This new white

Rose Kathleen. — This is another climbing
single Rose, although not quita so strong in
growth as the last-named, it is equally nori-
ferous. The colour of the flowers is much
lighter than that of Hiawatha, a shade of rose-
pink, but it has the same white centre, and set.
ting of yellow stamens. The trusses are fra-
grant, and remain on the plant for a great length
of time. Shown by Messrs. Wm. Paul & Sox,
Waltham Cross. (Award of Merit.)

Acrostichum decovatum. — A Fern somewhat re-
sembling A. crinitum, but with smaller fronds
which have a bright green surface, and a margin
of brown woolly scales ; the crown and stipes are
densely covered with brown scales. Shown by
Messrs. J. Hill & Sons, (.\ward of Merit.)

Vitis Henyyana. — This species was discovered by
Dr Henry in China, where it is a native of
Hupeh and Icjiang. It was introduced to Messrs.
Veitch's nursery by Mr. E. H. Wilson. In

given for this. Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth
Nurseries, who exhibited a fine specimen, had
also Nephrolepis Scottii, another American variety
of the exaltata type, but with shorter fronds, which
are of a leathery texture. ' "■

Daphne rupcstris [syn D. felrtea.] — An ex-
quisitely coloured rock shrub or dwarf evergreen
from the Tyrol. By no means a novelty, but
exceedingly rare in cultivation. We have never
before seen the plant in such beauty, the rich rose
colour of the pretty mass of blossoms defying
description. The plant is not more than 3 inches
high, the blossoms at flowering time quite covering
the whole plant, so that leaves are only occasionally
seen. From The Craven Nursery, Clapham,
Lancaster. (Award of Merit.)

Gladiolus, Ne Plus Ultra. — The reason for the
Floral committee recognising this very old, and by
no means rare plant was not apparent. It is, we
believe, a variety of G. ramosus, and coloured a

Fig.

I43--

-viTis henryana : leaves richly coloured, with central whitish stripes.
(Given an Award of Merit at the Temple Show.)

Carnation, which has been raised at West Dean
Gardens, Chichester, is a border variety. It is
very free in flowering, has a vigorous habit, and
produces large, full flowers that are pure white
and slightly fragrant. The calyx occasionally
bursts, owing to the fullness of the flowers, but
the variety is one that may be recommended to
the notice of every Carnation grower. Shown
by W. D. James, Esq., West Dean Park,
Chichester (gr. Mr. W. H. Smiith). (Award of
Merit.)

Rose Hia.ioatha. — A climbing Rose of very
strong growing habit, the long growths develop-
ing cylindrical trusses of rosy crimson single
flowers, each with a white centre that is more
or less hidden in the younger flowers by the
cluster of \ellow stamens. Shown by Messrs. F.
Cant & Co.. Colchester; Houbies, Ltd., Dere-
ham ; and Wm. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross.
(Award of Merit.)

appearance it is very much like the old Virginian
creeper, but the ner\es in the centre of each
leaflet are marked by a puberulous silvery band,
which are very eifecti\'e. The colour of the
young leaves is brilliant, translucent scarlet, pass-
ing as the leaves get older into rich carmine, and
ultimately into ruddy bronze, with the silvery
markings before mentioned. Shown by Hobbies,
Ltd. (Award of Merit.)

Nephrolepis exaltata siiperba. — This fine \'ariety,
which had previously been awarded an .^ward of
Merit, was now recommended a First Class Certi-
ficate, being shown in excellent condition bv Mr.
H. B. May.

Nephrolepis exaltata elegant issima. — This is of
American origin and somewhat resembles N.
Piersoni, but has looser and more elegant fronds;
the lateral pinns spread out and again subdivided,
the sub-divisions being again cut down into
narrow segments. A First Class Certificate was

crimson scarlet, each of the lower segments of
the flower having an oblong and much pointed
white blotch running through its central part.
The variety is showy and worthy of cultivation, the
arching spikes of 2} feet high being very attractive.
From Messrs. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Gar-
dens, Colchester, (.\ward of Merit.)

FRUIT TREES.
The sole exhibitors of these were Messrs.
Rivers & Sons, Sawbridgeworth, who had a
group of thirty-five trees in pots, including eight
Peaches, twenty Nectarines, and seven Cherries.
The pots varied in diameter from 12 to 16
inches. The trees are re-potted each 3'ear, the
roots being hard pruned. The average crop on
Peach and Nectarine trees was eighteen fruits,
the varieties being I'each Duke of York, the pro-
duct of crossing .-\lexander I'each with Early
Rivers Nectarine; and Nectarine Cardinal, nov/

June 2, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

355

so well known as the earliest variety of Necta-
rine in cultivation. As evidence of the precocity
of the Peach, a yearling plant carried three hne
ripe fruits. Baskets of fruits of Cardinal Nec-
tarine were also staged. The Cherries, all freely
fruited, were of the variety May Duke.

COLLECTIONS OF FRUIT.
The most considerable and finest collection
was that sent by Sir W. G. Peauce, Bart.,
Chilton Lodge, Hungerford (gr. Mr. CAarles
Beckett). This included on tall stands superb
Ringleader, Royal Jubilee, Superlative, Coun-
tess, Hero of Lockinge, and other Melons ;
Grapes, Poster's Seedling, six bunches ; Buck-
land Sweetwater, three bunches ; and Black
Hamburgh, five bunches. Also, in dishes.
Brown Turkey and Wliite Marseilles Figs ;
Waterloo and Hale's Early Peaches ; Cardinal
and Early Rivers Nectarines; Strawberries in
variety, making in all some fifty dishes.

From Bearwood, Wokingham, the residence
of A. F. Walter, ICsq. (gr. Mr. W. Barnes),
came a smaller but superb exhibit of Hero of
Lockinge Melons; also Frogmore Scarlet, Sut-
ton's Ringleader, Best of All, and others, all
very fine fruits. There were also several dishes
of that capital late Apple Annie Elizabeth,
richly coloured and handsome.

Messrs. Laxton Bros., Bedford, showed some
fifty plants in 6-inch pots of their fine new
Strawberry Bedford Champion, the fruits being
of large size, rounded, clear, and of a bright
scarlet colour ; also several large baskets of
picked 'fruits. There were also twenty-hve
similar plants of a new Strawberry named Re-
ward, deeper than the other in colour and
rather broader in form. Both varieties were
evidently heavy croppers.

Mr. J. T. D. Whitaker, Bentham, Yorkshire,
had a few plants in pots of a Strawberry named
Archroyal. If a good variety, the exhibit did it
material injustice.

Messrs. J. F. Chatkield, Southwick, sent six
plates of very fine fruits of Royal Sovereign
Strawberries, the fruits, however, being rather
flatter than usual with this variety.

From Mr. Bvron, Gayford, Worthing, came
numerous bunches of Grapes on stands and in
baskets, the chief being apparently Muscat of
Alexandria (somewhat green), and one basket
of Black Hamburgh. Also Cucumber Telegraph
and an unnamed Tomato.

Messrs. G. Bunyard & Co., Maidstone, set
up a wonderfully fresh collection of some eighty
dishes of Apples and a few baking Pears, with
three trees in pots of May Duke Cherry in fine
fruit. Amongst the excellent Apples were Lord
Derby, Lane's Prince Albert, Ontario, Jving of
Tompkins County, Annie Elizabeth, Mere de
menage, Alfriston, Reinette Superfin, Belle du
Bois, Hormead's Pearmain, Bismarck, Grange's
Pearmain, Winter Queening, Prince Alfred,
Barnack Beauty, Ben Davis, Belle Pontoise, and
Paroquet.

VEGETABLES.

A very remarkable display of forced vegetables,
covering 100 square feet of tabling, but even
then somewhat thickly placed, was that from
Welbeck Abbey, Worksop, staged by the Duke
of Portland (gr., Mr. J. Gibson). The number
of diverse dishes was 103, and included for
background, clusters of Lettuces, Earliest of All,
Ideal, Golden Marvel, Golden Ball, and others ;
Cabbages Tender and True, April, Flower of
Spring, Little Gem, and Sutton's Earliest ;
Turnips, Red and White Milan ; Carrots, Long
and Turnip Rooted, Bell's Champion, Early
Gem, and Intermediate ; and in front, Celeries
White Gem and Al ; Vegetable Marrows Perfec-
tion, Moore's Cream, and Pen-y-bid ; Cucumbers
Prize-winner and Delicacy ; Peas Early Giant,
Duke of Albany, Ideal, and Excelsior ;
numerous Potatos, Tomatos, Radishes, Dwarf
Beans, Mushrooms, and other products.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons, Reading, set up a very
interesting collection of Cabbage Lettuce in
great variety, some of the best being Satisfac-
tion, Standwell, Heartwell, Ideal, Golden Ball,
Earliest of All, and Commodore Nutt. Also a
collection of Potatos grown in frames, including
forty-two varieties early and late kinds : of
these were May Queen (well named). Ring-
leader, Epicure, Harbinger, Sir J. Llewellyn,
Superlative, Beauty of Hebron, and Satisfac-
tion.

Mr. S. Mortimer, Farnham, had a very effec-
tive collection of Tomatos, his background

including numerous fruiting stems of Carter's
Sunrise, and several dishes of it; also boxes and
dishes of Winter Beauty, Hanwell Victory, Sut-
ton's Satisfaction, Al, Victoria, and others ;
also boxes of Cucumbers Telegraph and Sutton's
Matchless, fruits of this last-named variety
being very handsome.

Superb examples of Asparagus in large
bundles came from Mr. PIarwood, Colchester,
and Mr. Stephenson, Burwell, Cambridge.

Mr. Montmokency, Carrickmines, Ireland,
sent three dishes of forced Potatos.

Distinctly interesting were the collections sent
by the several horticultural colleges.

From the Reading College (Mr. C. Foster,
head gardener) came clusters of Tomatos in
great variety ; also fine bunches of Carrots. He
had a striking centre of Magniira Bonum Cauli-
flower, fianked by baskets of Holmes' Supreme,
Sunbeam, Satisfaction, and other Tomatos :
Superb Early Giant and Duke of Albany Peas ;
various Cucumbers, Cauliflowers, and other pro-
ducts, including a very fine Asparagus showing
Avonderful growth, being from plants of but
three years old. Also a fine basket of Royal
Sovereign Strawberry.

From the Horticultural College, Swanley,
Kent (head gardener, Mr. Lawson), were staged
several varieties of Vegetable Marrows, Model
and Rochford's Cucumbers, various Potatos,
Tomatos, and Lettuces.

The Lady Warwick College, Studley Castle
(Warden, Miss Faithfull), sent numerous plants
in pots and in fruit of the Red Currant Tomato,
dishes of Cauliflowers, Broccolis, Cabbages,
Cucumbers, Tomatos, Lettuces, Peas, and
Dwarf Beans — in all about forty dishes.

Awards made by the Council.

Veitchian Cup.
Messrs. Sander, St. Albans, for Orchids and
New and Rare Plants.

Gold Medals.
Jas. Veitch it Sons, Ltd., for New Chinese
Plants, Stove and Greenhouse Plants ; His Grace
the Duke of Portland, for Vegetables ; Jeremiah
Colman, Esq., for Orchids ; Fisher, Son &
Sibray, Ltd., for Trees and Shrubs ; W. Cutbush
& Sons, for Rockwork, etc. ; F. Sander & Sons,
for Orchids, etc. ; Sutton & Sons, for Greenhouse
Plants and Vegetables; R. Wallace & Co., for
Lilies, Herbaceous and Aquatics ; R. P. Ker &
Sons, for Hippeastrums ; Charlesworth & Co., -
for Orchids ; Mr. Geo. Mount, for Roses ; W.
Paul & Son, for Roses.

Silver Cups.
Sir W. G. Pearce, Bart., for Fruit; W. James,
Esq., for Carnations; Martin Smith, ICsq., for
Carnations ; Sir F. Wigan, for Orchids ; A. F.
Walter, Esq., for Fruit ; Cuthbert & Co., for
Hardy Azaleas ; Rd. Smith & Co., for Clematis ;
Carter & Co., for Flowering Plants; J. Waterer
& Sons, for Rhododendrons ; Barr & Sons, for
Herbaceous Plants, etc. ; Mr. L. R. Russell,
for Hardy Trees, etc. ; Cheal & Co., for
Hardy Trees, etc. ; Hugh Low & Co.,
for Flowering Plants, etc. ; G. Bunyard & Co.,
for Apples and Herbaceous Plants ; Mr. M.
Prichard, for Herbaceous and Alpine Plants ;
Rivers & Sons, for Fruit Trees in Pots ; Cannell
& Sons, for Cannas, etc. ; Blackmore & Lang-
don, for Begonias ; Mr. Amos Perry, for Her-
baceous Plants ; Bakers, for Herbaceous
Plants ; Paul & Son, for Roses ; Cripps & Sons,
for Hardy Maples and Shrubs ; Mr. H. B. May,
for Ferns and Flowering Plants ; Mr. Frank
Cant, for Roses ; Mr. D. Russell, for Hardy
Trees and Shrubs.

Silver-gilt Flora Medal.
T. S. W^are & Co., for Begonias and Carna-
tions ; Jackman & Sons, for Clematis, etc. ;
Dobbie & Co., for Violas, etc. ; Fromow & Sons,
for Hardy Maples ; Mr. C. Turner, for Roses
and Carnations ; \V. Bull & Sons, for Foliage
Plants and Orchids ; Mr. A. J. A. Bruce, for Sar-
racenias, etc. ; " Le Lion " Firm, for Palms ; J.
Backhouse & Son, for Rock Plants ; Hill & Son,
for Ferns ; Mr. C. Engelm.ann, for Carnations ;
Mr. Arends, for Primula obconica ; Lord Roths-
child, for Carnations,; Mr. R. J. Farrer, for Al-
pines ; T. Cypher & Sons, for Orchids ; Mr. G.
Reuthe, for Herbaceous Plants, etc. ; Mr. H. C.
Pulham, for Rock Plants.

Silver-gilt Kmghtian Medal.
Reading College, for Vegetables.

SiLVER-GILT BaNKSIAN MeDAL.
Mr. S. Mortimer, for Cucumbers, etc. ; Hogg
& Robertson, for Tulips ; Mr. R. C. Notcutt, for
Herbaceous Plants ; Hobbies, Ltd., for Roses ;
Mr. A. F. Duttcn, for Carnations.

Lindley Medal.
Mr. C. Vuylsteke, for Orchids.

Silver Knightian Medal.
J. & F. Chatfield, for Strawberries ; R. Ste-
phenson, Esq., for Asparagus.

Silver Flora Medal.

J. Laing & Sons, for Caladiums, etc. ; H. Eck-
ford i: Sons, for Sweet Peas ; Sir A. Henderson,
Bart., for Greenhouse Plants; Bath, Ltd., for
Tuhps, etc. ; Mr. W. J. Godfrey, for Poppies,
etc. ; Guildford Hardy Plant Nursery Co., for
Rock Plants; B. Ladhams, Ltd., for Herbaceous
Plants ; Mr. A. Wilson, for Tulips ; Mr. H.
Burnett, for Carnations; R. Ashworth, Esq., for
Orchids; Mr. H. J. Jones, for Sweet Peas;
Kelway & Son, for Pyrethrums, etc. ; B. R. Cant
t*;: Sons, for Roses ; Mrs. CoUingwood, for Or-
chids ; Mrs. Hills, for Orchids.

Silver Banksian Medal.

J. Peed & Son, for Gloxinias ; G. & A. Clark, for
Herbaceous Plants, etc. ; Laxton Bros., for
Strawberries ; Mr. W. Iceton, for Foliage Plants ;
Mr. B. Gayford, for Grapes, etc. ; Mr. A. J. Har-
wood, for Asparagus ; Mr. R. Sydenham, for
Sweet Peas ; Mr. H. Crane, for Violas ; Dick-
son's, Dublin, for Tulips ; Reamsbottom, for
Anemones ; Watkins & Simpson, for Sweet Peas,
etc. ; The Misses Hopkins, for Alpines ; Mr. T.
Jannock, for Lilacs, etc. ; Swanley College, for
Vegetables; Carter, Page & Co., for Cactus
Dahlias.

ORCHID SALE. (See also p. 346.)

The sale of duplicates from the collection of
Francis Wellesley, Esq., on Wednesday, at
Messrs. Protheroe and Morris' Rooms, realised
close on £1,500, the lots being principally
Cypripediums, Cattleyas, Laelias, and somo
hybrids. The event of the day was the keen
competition for the beautiful C. Thalia "Mrs.
Francis Wellesley," carried on between M.
Jules Hye de Crom, of Ghent, and G. F. Moore,
Esq., of Bourton-on-the-Water ; Mr. Moore al-
tirtiately securing the plant for 28.'> gns., which
is the record price for a hybrid Cypripedium.
C. Mrs. Wm. Mostyn brought 44 gns., C.
Memoria JerninghamiEe 32 gns., C. Ville de
Paris 32 gns., and others nearly as much;
Cattleya Mossi^ alba Miss E. Harting 60 gns.
and 55 gns., while others obtained proportion-
ately good prices. The specimens were in fine
health, and in most cases good large plants.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Apples; T.A.D.S. and L. E. W. A fungus
called Botrytis vulgaris is the cause of the
mischief. Thoroughly drench every part of
the trees during winter, before the leaf-
buds begin to swell, with a solution of
sulphate of iron prepared as follows : Water,
50 gallons ; sulphuric acid, one pint ; sul-
phate of iron, 25 pounds. Add the acid to
the sulphate, then mix the water by degrees.
.\ wooden vessel must be used. When the
leaves are fully expanded spray with half-
strength Bordeaux mixture, and again just be-
fore the blossom opens.

Aster Mildew : Junction. The injury is caused
by a mildew called Erysiphe cichoracearum.
The plants and soil should be sprayed every
five days, until the disease is checked, with a
solution of permanganate of potash (Condy's
Fluid), diluted with water to a pale rose colour.

Cucumbers : G. M. There is no fungus or insect
present to account for the injury. — A. IF. Due
to an over supply of water when the fruit is in a
young state. There is no fungus present. — A . M.
The injury is that of scorching, due to absence
of shade when the leaves are moist.

Fig Trees Diseased : G. C. The diseased con-
dition is due to a fungus, Cercospora BoUeana.
A description, with figure, ot this disease was
given in our issue for July 7, WOO, p. 5. Dilute
Bordeaux mixture has been useful in combating
the parasite. Be careful to burn all the fallen
leaves and fruits, and to remove any leaves and
fruits that are seen to be attacked and arc still on
the tree.

d56

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June

1S06.

Grapes Spotted : S. S. The spotting appears
to be the young state of Glaeosporium ampelo-
phagum. Send again if the disease becomes
more pronounced, and in the meantime spray
the bunches with hver of sulphur, -J oz. to
one gallon of water.
Market Gardening : M. K. Judging from the
particulars which you have furnished us with,
we should advise you in erecting glasshouses on
your half-acre of freehold land, to start building
at the east or west boundary of the ground, and
to put up three or four span-roofed houses, each
of which should be made to extend from the
north to the south. The intention being to
cover eventually at least three-parts of the area
■with glasshouses, the dimensions of those must
be determined by the nature of the produce you
intend to cultivate in them. All things con-
sidered, you had better commence with Cucumber
culture, if you understand growing Cucumbers
for market, which is a very different thing from
growing them in a private garden, inasmuch as
market plants must be made to yield quick
returns, and two or three separate lots of plants
can be fruited in each house during the interval
elapsing between February and November in
each year. The last crop can be cleared out of
the houses in time to make room for late flower-
ing Chrysanthemums lifted from the open
ground and transplanted therein for yielding
flowers for cutting, and thus a continuity of in-
come well into the new j-ear. The growing of
Grapes and Peaches for the London market,
which 13 more than 100 miles distant from
your place, is not to be recommended as two
or three years must elapse before anything
like full crops of fruit could be secured
from Grape-vines and Peach trees planted at the
end of this or the beginning of next year,
although partial crops of Tomatos may and
should be obtained from the houses so planted
in the meantime. If you can possibly manage
to have three low span-roofed houses of the
following dimensions erected to start with, they
will afford you a good basis to work on. Cu-
cumber-houses should be 12 feet wide, and the
length will be determined by the extent of your
ground from north to south, which may be any-
thing between 50 and 200 feet. Let the brick
walls consist of 4i inch work, with 9 inch
strengthening piers at intervals of 7 or 8 feet.
The walls should not be more than 21 feet in
height from the ground line (including wallplate),
the piers being built flush with the walls inside
and projecting outward. Piers built at the
intervals indicated will serve instead of a wall to
support the wallplate for securing half the
7-i feet long rafters of both houses, but the third
house should be shut off from the other two by
a i\i inch wall, so as to admit of its being used
as a propagating house, and it should have a
division in it as a means, not only of economising
heat, but also of maintaining a more even
atmospheric temperature during December and
January, when the young cucumber plants are
being raised. Each house should be provided
with four rows of 4 inch hotwater pipes the
entire length, two on each side, one above the
other, and close up to the side walls and piers.
These details are extremely important to anyone
about to embark in the business. You should be
able to do a good trade in bedding plants in your
neighbourhood by growing effective and up-to-
date varieties of Pelargoniums, such as Raspail
Improved, Denmark, &c., seeing that you could
propagate a good stock of plants in boxes out of
doors in the autumn and in heat in the new
year and spring. With a view to further
assisting you in the carrying out of your
project regarding the erection of glasshouses
we would suggest that you put yourself m
communication with some good builder of
commercial glasshouses, stating your position
and requirements. By all means utilise all
available ground in growing such vegetables
(including Tomatos) and flowers (including white
and yellow Marguerites) as you can dispose of
locally.
Melon Plants : W. P. We find no fungus on
the young plant, which appears to have been
eaten by some insect. The injury may be caused
by cockroaches or weevils, which hide in the
day time.' Try to capture them at night time by
the aid of a lantern. The immunity of the
neighbouring plants is an indication of the
absence of disease.
Vkwes of Plants: H. R. Not a variety of
Sparaxis, but Tritonia crocata variety miniata. — ■

/. S. Calceolaria integrifolia, a delightfully free-
flowering species with branching inflorescence,
the flowers being of the identical shade of that
of Oncidium concolor. — If. T. Phlox subulata.
— R. H. 6, Cytisus monspessulanus, — A. G.
Amelanchier canadensis. — P. Bros. Brassia
verrucosa. — /. H . Vanda parviflora and Den-
drobium thyrsiflorum. — Jafonica. 1, Vanda
Roxburghii ; 2, Oncidium leuco-cheilum. The
Odontoglossum leaves are probably old ones
which often show such marks after a long winter.
— H. IV. Why do you send such miserable
scraps and give us so much trouble to remove
and decipher the labels, and why do you send
more than six, in Temple Show week too? We
hope you will send a small contribution for the
Gardeners' Orphan fund. We name some ; from
the rest the labels were detached ; 2, Nephro-
dium moUe ; 4, Cyperus alternifolius ; 6, Lo-
maria ciliata ; 7, Davallia Mooreana ; 9, a seed-
ling Cypress or Juniper ; 10, Ela;odendron Chab-
rieri ; 11, Chamaerops humilis ; 12, Asparagus
tenuissimus ; 13, Begonia vittata ; 14, Panicum
sulcatum ; 16. Acacia, perhaps A. deaibata ;
17, Pteris longifolia. — H. H. 1, Prunus Padus,
Bird Cherry; 2, Ribesaureum. — E.W. Prunus
sinensis, double form. — •/. P. The flower is
quite dried up and the characters of the crest
lost. It is not a true O. crispum, but probably
a form of O. Adrianae. — W. D. 1, Prunus
Padus; 2, Uvularia perfoliata; 3, Anemone
sylvestris ; 4, Mertensia sibirica ; 5, Saxifraga
Wallichi; 6.Tiarellacordifolia.— C. P. 1, Phy-
teuma obiculare; 2, Androsace foliosa.
Oak-Gall : /. H. IV. The Currant or Grape
Oak-gall, see fig. 144.

Fig. 144. — the currant or grape oak-gall
produced by cynips quercus-pedunxuli

Odontoglossum cirrosum failing to flower :
IV. M. As the particular plant you mention
has been given the same treatment as the others
which have bloomed regularly, it is very
probable, as you suggest, that the failure may
be due to something in the nature of this plant.
It is quite common to find free-blooming and
"shy-blooming " qualities in different individuals
of the same species. Orchid growers know well
that some Orchids are much freer in producing
their flowers than others, the good or bad quali-
ties being frequently noted in particular localities.
Cattleya Warscewiczii from a certain locality
got the reputation of being impossible to bloom,
although those from other localities flowered
freely. Vanda teres was said to behave in the
same way, and numerous other instances might
be mentioned. Under the circumstances it
would be better to do away with the plant or
place it in the open air for a time during the
summer in a shady situation ; it may induce the
plant to flower when returned to the house if it
survives the conditions out of doors.

Privet Hedge : Heige. We cannot advise you
to take the case into court. Presumably your
complaint is not that the privet hedge overhangs
your land, but simply that it has grown too
high. The neighbour is entitled to fence off his
land by a hedge or even by a high brick wall if
he so chooses, provided he does not obstruct an
adjoining owner's right to light for his buildings
where such right has been enjoyed uninter-
ruptedly for at least 20 years past, and we
assume that your greenhouse has not been built
so long as that. We suppose you cannot con-

\eniently move your greenhouse away from the
hedge, and therefore you cannot do better than
try to settle the matter amicably. If the neigh-
bour will allow you to cut the hedge this is as
much as you can expect, and you will be wise to
ofter to do this at your own expense if necessary.
Of course if the hedge overhangs your land you
can cut it back, but the case is clearly one for
friendly discussion on give and take principles.

Protection of Fruit Blossom : R. B. R. The
'' smudges " were tried on several fruit planta-
tions in Worcestershire and Gloucestershire.
Smother fires of various kinds were lighted, but
last year the results were not satisfactory. On
one particular night when fires were lit on the
windward side of plantations, the wind veered
round after a very short time, and much of the
efforts that had been expended were wasted.
The growers have a great deal to learn as
to the most suitable material for burning.
Heaps of rubbish, sometimes with a propor-
tion of tar, have been experimented with.
The results have not been satisfactory. Some
growers have this year carried out experiments
based upon practices of Califorina and else-
where to protect the Orange groves from frost,
and success is looked for in the system of
burning oils for the production of heat rather
than in the older style of smother fires. On
April 26 last, there were 15° of frost in some of
these plantations, and we believe that the cold
wrought serious damage.

Red Currant ; It'. B. The caterpillar of the
Gooseberry moth. See our number for May 19,
where the insect is figured.

Rose Shows : H. V. R. A list of the principal
Rose shows, so. far as the dates were known to
us, was published in our issue for April 28, p.
265. The London Show of the National Rose
Society will be held on July 5 in tlie Royal
Botanic Society's Gardens, Regent's Park.

Strawberries : E.P.C. The disease is due to
a fungus, Sphaerella fragaria;. It is very common
but we do not often see plants so badly affected,
Cut off and burn the affected lea\es as far as
you can, and spray witli Bordeaux mixture. —
D)ye. Assuming your statement to be correct
that the blooms are not injured by frost, then
the blackening of the pistils is an arrest, or
a reversion or harking back to the original
unisexual condition of the Strawberry.

Tomato Disease : Correspondent. The Tomatos
are suffering from "sleepy disease." Badly
diseased plants should be removed at once.
When the fruit has set before the disease ap-
pears, the soil should be soaked once a week
with water containing a wine-glass full of for-
malin added to every two gallons. This will
enable the plant to mature its fruit, The soil
in which diseased plants are grown must be
thoroughly sterilised before it is used for To-
matos again.

Trop.^-olum speciosum : /. C. G. You are right
in believing this species to be that which thrives
so w-ell in the North of Scotland and in Wales,
and there is nothing improbable in the statement
that the species was common in Scotland in
1864, as it was introduced to these islands as
early as 1846 !

Violas or Tufted Pansies : /. Burroifs. You
will find the following varieties to be among the
most serviceable of these plants: — A. J. Row-
berry (golden yellow). Bullion (very rich yellow,
early). General Baden I'owell (rich orange),
Ardwell Gem (pale yellow, very prolific), ulue
Duchess (very fine), Ada Anderson (white and
shaded with lavender), Mau\e Queen (very
free), Florizel (of a lilac-blush shade, most
prolific), Mrs. A. Catford (white). Countess of
Hopetoun (white). True Blue (very dwarf and
compact). The RIearns (rich plum colour), and
White Duchess (white, edged with blue).
Should you desire to plant them at this season
you must afford the plants partial shade and
frequent wateringfs for a few weeks until they
have become well established.

Vines : F. A. The peculiar disease on the Vine
leaves requires more time for its elucidation.
We will refer to the matter again in this column.

Communications Received. — A. D. W. (with thanks)—
E. S. W.— E. F.— C. Sprenger (Naples)— Lord K.— W. J.
— G. T. A.— J. K. B.— Theo. V.-Balhford— J. S.-H. W. C.
—J. B.-Ciardenia— P. C. van C— J. McH.— W. H. C—
W. J. P.— Chloris— H. W.— E. H.— A. O.— F. B.

For Uarkd Reports sec page x.

June 9, 19U6.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

357

THE

^arbcncrs'Cbronulc

No. 1,015.— SATURD.4Y, June 9, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Apple Star of Devon ...

359

Montbretias

376

Beans, Lima

36a

Mo!^quitos, protection

Benevolent Institution,

from

368

Gardeners' Royal ...

367

" Neill " prize, theaward

Books, notices of—

of the

369

Botanical Magazine ...

367

Nitrogen, fixing atmos-

Familiar Trees

367

pheric

368

Handbook of Climb-

Obituary-

ers, &c

361

Bath. John

376

The Garden Beautiful

361

Blackie, Dr

376

Botanists, portraits of...

367

Orange growing

368

British Gardeners' As-

Orchid notes and glean-

sociation ... 3j6

371

ings

361

Carnation Society, the

Pine Beetle, the

3o9

newly-formed

370

Plants, new or note-

Cereals and silica

369

worthy —

Charlock

368

Primula cognata

358

Colonial notes

36-2

Rome, the Borghese gar-

Covent Garden Market

dens in

370

in bedding time

363

Rosary, the

358

Cruyssen, Edouard Van

Shrubs, tender

370

der

369

Societies-

Dublin seedsmen

369

Royal Horticultural ...

370

Engkala fruits

36S

British Gardeners' ...

:>7i

Flowers in season

36y

Agricultural Seed

Foreign Correspon-

Trade Association...

375

dence

359

Dutch Horticultural

375

Forestry at Newcastle-

Spring flowers in the

upon-Tyne

367

south-west

357

Fountain, a bubble

Trees suitable for water-

forming;

361

side planting

358

Fream, Dr. William ...

369

Tulips in Edinburgh
public gardens

Fruit prospect in Ger-

360

many, the

369

Tulips, yellow Darwin

370

German Orchid society,

Vegetables

362

a newly-formed

367

Vegetables, Exhibiting

370

Gladiolus tristis...

370

Water gardens

359

Iris garden at Kew, the

367

Wheat crops

36H

Kew notes

363

Week's Work, the 364-3(35

T'

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Apple Star of Devon 359

Bedding plants in Covent Garden Market 363

Primula cognata 358

Temple Show, Views of exhibits at the recent 372, 373 & 374

Tulips in East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh ... 360

Vellozia retinervis growing in its natural habitat ... 362
View in the Iris Garden at Kew (Supplementary Illus-
tration).

SPRING FLOWERS IN THE
SOUTH-WEST.

I HE spring of igo6 has bten a very trying
one in South Devon and Cornwall; in-
deed, in the latter county such a season
had not, I was informed, been experi-
enced for 30 years. Frosts of from 4 to 5 de-
grees, accompanied by biting easterly winds,
continued for some weeks, with the result that
all the Rhododendron trusses borne on the
outside of the bushes were browned, only
those sheltered by foliage being perfect. At
Tregothnan, the splendid specimen ol R.
grande, better known as R. argenteum, over
16 feet in height and more in breadth, flow-
ered finely, but its beautiful blossoms were
brown instead of creamy white. What will
in a more genial season probably prove to be
the finest of the new Rhododendrons exhibited
this season is Gill's Triumph lately cer-
tificated by the R.H.S. Raised, like so
many handsome hybrids, by the head gar-
dener at Treniough, and a cross between R.
Thomsoni and R. Griffithianum (Auck-
land!), it is of such a brilliant crimson-scarlet
colour that it has been termed the scarlet
AucUlandi. When a full-sized, perfect truss
can be shown, it should take the first place
amongst hybrid Rhododendrons.

.\ wonderful collection of new seedling
Narcissi from the gardens of Mr. P. D. Wil-

liams, Mr. J. C. Williams, and Mr. C. Daw-
son were staged at the Cornwall Daffodil
Society's show at Truro early in April, which
were alluded to at length in the report of the
same show. Of other shrubs, trees ana
plants in flower, the Acacias provided a bril-
liant spectacle, a group of A. dealbata about
30 feet in height, at Tregothnan, backed by
evergreen Oaks, being a sheet of gold at the
end of March, while a tree of the same
species, over 40 feet in height, was flowering
grandly at Trebah, in which garden a speci-
men of the Cape Silver Tree (Leucadendron
argenteum), which has now been growing in
the open for three winters and is 6 feet in
height, was the picture of health. .'Amongst
other Acacias in flower were A. Drummondi,
A. armata, A. longifolia, A. melanoxylon, .A.
ovata, and A. verticillata. In May .Abelia
floribunda opened its long, drooping, cherry-
red flowers. This plant is usually grown
against a wall, but succeeds equally well as
a bush in the south-west.

Anopteris glandulosa is a lovely shrub, but
rarely seen in gardens. Its flowers resemble
those of the Lily of the Vallev Tree (ClethVa
arborea), but are considerably larger, the
white bells, borne on long racemes, being
over 2 an inch across. It is unfortunately a
very slow grower, but flowers profusely even
as a tiny plant. It is a native of Tasmania.
In Mr. Dorrien-Smith's garden at Tresco
.Abbey, Isles of Scilly, there is a splendid
specimen about loft. in height, and as much
through that is white with flower in March.

.Arctotis aureola has produced its bright
orange flowers in the open throughout the
entire winter, and is far more decorative than
its relative, .A. aspera arborescens. Towards
the end of May a large sheet of .Androsace
lanuginosa commenced to expand its flowers
and the dwarf Aster Stracheyi bloomed. At
Tregothnan Llanksia quercifolia was in good
flower in .April, Boronia megastigma, 5 feet
in height, B. elalior, 5 feet, B. heterophylla,
6 feet, and B. polygalifolia were in bloom, as
was the scarlet-flowered Australian climber
Brachysema acuminatum. Calceolaria Bur-
bidgei was in flower through all the win-
ter months and C. violacea is now smo-
thered with its helmet-shaped lavender blos-
soms with their yellow spotted throats. This
Calceolaria has formed a bush 7 feet across
at Tregothnan. Camassia Leitchlini has
thrown up 5- feet flower spikes, and in .April
Cantua dependens was flowering in the open
at Tregothnan. Clianthus puniceus and its
white variety were sheets of flower in May,
the two colours on the same wall making a
pretty contrast. Cestrums (Habrothamnus)
of different species have flowered, as have
various Ccrreas, C. cardlnalis being the most
brilliant. Chorizema Lowi was a mass of
flower in .\pril, when the pretty quilled, sal-
mon-pink Daisy .Alice was studded with blos-
soms. Flowers of Datura sanguinea grown
in the open were exhibited at the Truro show,
the most charming of the Deutzias, D. kal-
miaeflora has bloomed profusely, and Dian-
thus Ernilie Pare, one of the prettiest of the
Pinks, which commenced to bloom in March
and continues to flower through the whole
summer, is a sheet of flesh-pink. Diervilla
(Weigela) Conquete, one of the best of the
genus, has produced its pale pink flowers
over 2 inches across, and Dimorphotheca
Ecklonis, which comes through the winter
unharmed, is now in full flower, while
Diosma gracilis is daily adding to the num-
ber of its tiny white flowers. lirioslemon
neriifolius has borne its white, pink-budded

star-flowers lavishly in some gardens, and is
a very pretty little Australian shrub. Em-
bothrium cpccineum, a common object in
good Cornish gardens, created its customary
glorious display in May, trees 30 feet to 40
feet in height being clouds of vermilion. Ery-
throniums, often difficult of culture, were to
be seen in marvellous vigour in a certain
Cornish garden early in April, many crowded
colonies of a hundred or more, in the most
perfect health, being in flower at the time.
Gnidia carinata was bearing its yellow blos-
soms, as were many of the Grevilleas, includ-
ing G. rosmarinitolia, G. alpina, G. sul-
phurea, and G. Preissi. Gladiolus tristis con.
color was very beautiful in April, and per-
fumed the night air with its fragrance. Nur-
serymen apparently do not stock this pale
sulphur variety, always sending out a form
with purple-black bands on the three u'rper
segmenls.

The Barberton Daisy (Gerbera Jameson!)
has commenced its season's display, end has
already borne several of its brilliant scarlet
flowers, while other Cape bulbs, such as the
pretty buff Homeria collina, Sparaxis, Ixias
and Freesias have flowered well, as have Ixio-
lirion niontanum and I. tataricum, the former
being by far the stronger and more flori-
ferous of the two. Lavatera maritima bi-
color, grown in some Cornish gardens as L.
assurgentiflora, has perfected the first of its
white, purple-blotched flowers, and Melian-
thus major has been in flower for some
months. The little-known shrub, Neviusia
alabamensis, has borne its curious flowers
consisting of crowded white stamens and de-
void of petals, and Osteomeles anthylHdi-
folia, from the Pacific Isles, appears fairly
hardy, and is now bearing its white blossoms
in crowded clusters. Many of the Daisy-
bu-shes have been white with bloom, Olearia
nitida, of rather recent introduction, 4 feet in
height and as much through, being very at-
tractive; the rare O. insignis has also flow-
ered. Pimelea spectabilis was in fine flower
at Tregothnan, and in several Cornish gar-
dens Pittosporum eugenoides was in profuse
blossom. Phlox divaricata Laphami has
proved a great advance on the type, and is
flowering well close to a bush of Polygala
Dalmaisiana also in bloom. Ranunculus
nyssanus has borne its polished vellow flow-
ers, and Rehmannia angulata, which has
proved hardy, is coming into bloom. Ra-
mondia pyrenaica, its white form, R. serbica
and Nathalie have flowered well between
shady rocks, and in March the Chilian Rha-
phithamnus cyanocarpus produced its purple
flowers, to be followed later by blue fruits.

Romulea pylea bore its white yellow-cen-
tred blossoms in .April, followed by the blue
and white R. nivalis. Schizocodon soldanel-
loides was perfectly at home in a Cornish
garden, as was Shortia galacifolia, but S.
unifiora, though appearing healthy, had not
flowered, and in a damp spot the Canadian
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) had per-
fected a breadth of white. Crocus-like blos-
soms. Early in March the enormous flower-
heads of Senecio macrophyllus were at their
best, and S. Petasites was in bloom through
the winter. Solanum aviculare has borne thj
earliest of its purple yellow-centred blojms,
the plant being also decorative when hung
with large eg'g-shaped yellow fruits in the au-
tumn. C. crispum has been covered with lav-
ender-coloured blossom. One of the prettiest
shrubs in the garden is Sutherlandia frutes-
cens. a native of the Cape, which for six
weeks or more has been scarlet with closeiv-

358

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JUiNE 9, 1906.

packed racemes of drooping- flowers about
I J inches in length. In the middle of May
a large plant of Veronica Hulkeana nearly
6 feet in height and over 7 feet across was
a sight of wondrous beauty, the branching
sprays, drooping slightly from the wall form-
ing a feathery cloud of lavender. The shoots
are cut when they reach perfection, in order
to prevent the plant suffering from seed-pro-
duction, and this year 424 fiovver-sprays were
severed for indoor decoration. Viburnum
rugosum, from the Canary Isles, is a rare
shrub, that in two gardens produced its flat
white fiower-hcads in great profusion. Tu-
lips have made a brilliant display, some es-
pecially noteworthy being T. Batalini, T.
Clusiana (often difficult to flower), T. ixi-
oidcs, yellow with dark brown centre, T.
fragrans, the vivid T. Greigi, T. Kaufnian-
niana, T. linifolia, 'I'. Os;rowsklana, T.
prajstans, T. pulchella, T. Sprengeri, T. tri-
phylla, T. saxatilis, pale flesh-pink, with 3'el-
low eye, T. undulatifolia, the curiously
markeci Chameleon, and the fine yellow Mrs.
Moon. S. W. Filzherbcrt.

NEW OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

THE ROSARY.

HINTS FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE.

The cold winds and frosts during April and
May were very unfavourable- to Roses, as tlie
first growths have been much injured. It will
tak« the plants some time to make secondary
growths, which will cause the blooming season
to be later than usual. All forced Roses in pots
that have done flowering can now be placed in
a sheltered position out of doors, first making
an ash-base for the pots to stand on. They
should be re-potted next autumn. Tea,
Scented, and Noisette Roses recently planted
out should be given a thorough soaking of
water, followed by a good surface dressing of
well-fermented manure. Autumn-grafted plants
in 5in. pots can be plunged outside in beds and
top-dressed in like manner. All such plants
will make good specimens during the siunmer
and autumn if the leading shoots are stopped
twice at intervals during the growing season,
not later than the end of July. The Rose grub
is doing much harm, and should be pinched out
from the curled leaves and buds, and destroyed.
This pest and aphis can be got rid of by well
spraying the foliage with a mixture of soft soap,
quassia, and tobacco dissolved in hot water.

Standard Briars planted during the autumn
should be made firm about the roots, and when
towards the end of the present month or early
in July the shoots for budding on become firm
three or four of the strongest ones should be
selected at nearly opposite angles and as high up
the stem as possible for budding during July and
August. All lower shoots on the briar stem can
be eliminated. Well-ripened cuttings taken off
with a heel from Roses that have been grow-
ing under glass will make roots freely now if
put in sandy soil m small pots, and afterward
plunged in a hot-bed frame at a temperature of
70° to 75", and shaded from sunshine. Cuttings
planted outside during October should be made
firm by well treading in, and, unless planted in
a northern aspect, should be shaded from the
direct rays of the sun. This can be done by
inserting amongst the cuttings a few sprays
cut from bushes. If the ground is dry,
all the cuttings should be given a good
watering. The maiden buds on the Stan-
dard, Briars and ' Manetti" stocks will soon
require careful staking, and tieing-in of the
shoots to prevent the "buds" from being
blown out, and at the same time all wild shoots
kept wefl pinched back, except the shoot grow-
ing above the maiden bud, which later on, as
the bud gains strength, can be removed alto-
gether. 7. D. Godwin.

PRIMULA COGNATA.*
P. cognata is closely related to P. stenocalyx,
Maximowitcz agreeing as to foliage, bracts, and
more particularly as regards the narrow calyx-lobes
and the length of the rugose corolla tube. It differs,
however, by its much longer pedicels and in the
prismatically angled caly.x-tube. /. F. D.

[This new and charmingly pretty Primrose ;
another of Messrs. Veitch's Chinese introductions
through Mr. Wilson. It is a native of north-west
Szechuan, in the neighbourhood of Sungpan,''
at altitudes between 10.000 to 12,000 feet, and
affects moist, loamy banks or humus-clad rocks,
fully exposed to the sun and weather. The

rose should be quite hardy in this country, and'
there is reason to believe it will prove a good
perennial. P. cognata flowered for the first
time in this country in March and early in April
last, at Coombe Wood. Our illustration is taken
from a plant forwarded to Kew for name by
Messrs. Veitch.]

TREES AND SHRUBS.

TREES SUITABLE FOR WATERSIDE
.PLANTING.
Not all of us see with the same eye the varied
appropriateness of vegetable forms to certain
well-defined positions in the garden and plea-
sure grounds. Most persons acknowledge this

Fig. 145. — PRIMULA COGNAT.-V (REDUCED); COLOUR OF FLOWERS BLUISH-PURPLE.

flowers are delightfully scented, liglit bluish-
purple, about 1 inch across, and borne in umbels
on scapes 4 to 9 inches high. The scapes
arise from a dense rosette of pale green, obovate-
oblong, rounded leaves li to 3 inches long,
pedicels slender, erect, 1 to 2 inches long, calyx-
segments narrow ; petals deeply bifid.

From the altitude of its habitat this new Prim-

* Primula cognata, Duthic, n, sp. Herba perennis. Folia
rosulata, t*-3 poll, longa, obovata vel spatulata, obtusa, in
petiolum alatum sensim angustata, supra minute puberula,
subtus farinosa, marginihus ad apicem crenato-dentalis,
ciliolatis, costa et venis subtus conspicuis. Scapus circa
9 poll, longus, farinosus. Flores umbellati, suaveolentes,
palliJe violaceo-purpurci, faucibus albis. Bracteae 8-5 lin.
longaD, lineari-lanceolata;, ciliolata?, ad basim haudproducia;.
Pedicelli 1-2 poll, longi. Calyx 4 lin. longus, tubo angulalo,
lobis linearibus, obtusis, ciliolatis, faring flava intus dense
indutis. Corolla tubus calyce subduplo longior. cylin-
dratus aut subcampanulatus, rugosus, limbo fere ad basim
divisis ; lobis obovato cuneatis, alte bilobatis. /. F. Duthic,

fact when, on the margin of lakes and streams,
pendulous forms are planted, say, of the Com-
mon Ash, the Weeping Willow (in allusion one
supposes to the sort of Willow that grew at
Babylon, which, by the way, was a Poplar).
There are other trees with hanging branches
quit© as effective as this one, but lacking the
poetic sentiment, of which I may name some
purple and green-leaved forms of the Elm
and Beech; Sophora japonica pendula, a re-
markably pretty tree, totally differing in habit
from the type form ; Acacia Bessoniana when
not subjected to close pruning, and thus ren-
de»ed mop-headed, the treatment usually meted
out to its relative A. inermis, one of the horrors
of the suburban garden.

Of a different style of growth, and yet as-
sorting harmoniously with these, mention may
be made of the flat-branched Conifers, such

June 9, 1006.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

Qr,(

359

as the Lebanon, Atlas, and Deodar Cedars,
which, when grouped or planted as solitary
specimens on bold projections of a lake, are,
when observed from a distant point, ex-
tremely effective objects. Many of the true
Spruces and Silver Firs and Pinus Strobus and
P. sylvestris are not much less so. Between
the dfooping and the spreading forms the ag-
gressively perpendicular or columnar habited
tJees come in as suitable contrasts, and pre-
ference .should be given to such of them as
need neither pruning nor tying in order to keep
them to the pyramidal or columnar form as the
case may be. Hence, in all arrangements, ex-
<;ept the purely formal or sj'mmetrical, pyra-
midal Hollies, Yews, Sweet Bays, and the like
would find no place. Instead, it would be ad-
visable to plant Thuias, Cupressus, and Juni-
perus of species, namel}', T. gigantea and its

so much employed in Italian landscape, which
soon loses its lower braiiches, and presents a
globular crown. It is useful as a contrast to
spiky forms of trees, either evergreen or decidu-
ous, and is also not out of place in forma!
garden landscape. Pinus Mugho, a dwarf, and
many stemmed species, growing, according to
soil and position, from 5 to 12 feet high, and the
varieties of Juniperus Sabina, viz., prostrata and
tamariscifolia, are appropriate to places on the
banks where a view over them is obtainable.
Species of Conifers jvhich can be propagated
from cuttings seldom make symmetrical trees,
and remain in the branch form and appear
lopsided, but as such they have their uses in
places overhanging water, or upon the upper
parts of rockeries. The Silver and Hemlock
Firs are the more suitable of these cutting-
raised plants. F. ]\I

FiG- 146. — -\PPLE " ST.\R OF DEVON," AS THE FRUITS APPE-^RED IN M.\Y.

A-arieties ; T. occidentalis, and such of its varie-
ties as EUwangeriana, Spaethii, Warreana, and
the aurea variety of this last ; orientalis, the
golden and silver varieties, and pendula. Cu-
pressus Lawsoniana in most of its forms shows
admirably by the sides of lakes, but appears
best when in groups of three to five trees at 6 to
8 feet or more apart ; C. macrocarpa, the up-
right form, and C. nootkatensis (Thuiopsis bore-
alis).'^ Of Juniperus I would choose the more up-
right habited, such as J. communis, J. hiber-
nica, J. h. compressa, J. suecica, J. japonica,
and J. j. aurea. J. virginiana is of too gloomy
an aspect to be much planted near to water,
•otherwise it is suitable in growth. There are sev-
eral variegated varieties of it which might find
favour with some. Pinus Cembra should not
be omitted, its habits being strictly columnai
.and neat. In Pinus I should mention P. Pi.iea,

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.

NURSERYMEN'S VISIT TO HOLLAND.
Messrs. Bosgra, of Bergum, Friesland, on
p. 330, suggest that the British nurserymen who
are intending to visit Holland this month, should
extend their tour to Friesland and Groningen, and
I beg to support the proposal. There are many
nurserymen near Groningen who will be delighted
to welcome any gentlemen from England, and who
will do everything in their power to give them any
information that can be useful. If our suggestion
can prevail on our English colleagues to visit
Groningen, I sincerely hope they will not pass
my nursery without giving me a call. I shall be
delighted to give them every assistance possible.
'p. C. van Calcar, Ninsnus, Satffiihci-, Civniiigci:,
Holland.

APPLE STAR OF DEVON.

The variety of Apple shown at fig. 146 first
came under our notice at the exhibition of th^
Royal Horticultural Society on November 21st
last, when we described it as being of moderate
size, richly coloured, with red rn the side next
to the sun, and streaked with red over yellow on
the other side, flesh-soft, sweet, and possessing
agreeable flavour. We have had a further oppor-
tunity of judging of its m.erits from fruits re-
ceived recently from the raiser, Mr. John Gar-
land, who had charge of the gardens at Killer-
ton, Devonshire, for more than 42 years. The
fruits, when cut a week or so ago, were remark-
ably fresh and crisp, and possessed good flavour,
in addition to an attractive appearante. These
good qualities at so late a season may entitle
it to rank as one of the best of the late-keeping
dessert Apples.

A correspondent sends the following further
remarks relating to this fruit: —

" This Apple, in addition to its keeping quali-
ties, has a handsome rosy exterior, which greatly
increises its commercial value. In the spring
months, when Star of Devon is in season, there
is a demand for a good Apple to precede the
Tasmanian varieties. Fruits have recently been
sold wholesale at 15s. per bushel of 401b., a
figure which should make it a remunerative
Apple for market purposes. Mr. Garland, who
holds the stock, informs me that on the Para-
dise Stock it is a clean, healthy grower, and a
rjcent inspection of the trees confirms this state-
ment."

Mr. Garland tells us that the tree is cf
good habit, admirably adapted for growing as
l^yramids, bears freely, and produces its fruits
in clusters of twos and threes.

WATER GARDENS.

[Continued from p. 324.)
NVSIPH.EAS AND OTHER AQUATICS.

We will now consider the water plants that
can bo grown without protection in the English
climate, and suggest which oi them to admit into
the water garden, and which of them to avoid as
pests that are likely to cause endless trouble. It
is quite possible to buy a sixpenny plant and
feel quite satisfied with its behaviour for a year
or two, but ten years afterwards endless labour
will be required to rid the lake of its progeny.
Many submerged plants are of this description,
and although some possess very beautiful foliage
and others have showy flowers, they are not to
be recommended for any expanse of water that
cannot be readily drained away. Such plants
could easily be grown in rock-pools or orna-
m.ental ditches, where their increase can be
controlled.

It has already been suggested that Nymphaeas
should not occupy the centre of any ornamental
water, but should occur in schools at the margin
or fill any open expanse of water that may
project inland from the main body. An essen-
tial requirement, in order that full sunshine may
be obtained, is that the situation be open.
The depth of water need not exceed 3 feet for
any Nymphaea, although the stronger growing
varieties will thrive in deeper water. The
smaller kinds of Water Lilies should occupy a
shallow bay apart from the others, and the
water for these need not exceed a foot in depth,
although they will thrive in 2 feet of water. A
system of planting in baskets has established
itself, but there is much to be said against the
practice; in the first place, it is an unnatural
way o-f growing Nymphasas, and I think many
failures to start plants into growth are attribu-
table to this method of planting. One cannot
do better than to float a raft on the v,'ater, and

500

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 9, 1906.

thrust the tubers in the mud at the bottom, pro.
viding the roots are large enough to resist snap,
ping. In the case of young growing plants, the
crowns and leaves could be thrust through a
hole in a square of turf, and the plant secured
to the sod with raffia, and afterwards be sunk
into position, moulding mud over the turf until
well covered. Mud is their natural rooting
medium and sole protection from a kind of
basal decay that is ever a source of anxiety
with plants grown in baskets. Planting in deep
water must necessarily b3 done with baskets,
but any work that can be done with safety
by simply baring the arm and thrusting the
tubers home with or without a square of turf,
is a preferable way of establishing Nymphicas.

Varieties of Nv.mph-eas.

There are between forty and fifty kinds of
Water Lilies, derived from four or five recog-
nised species, all good enough for any water
garden, but of this number less than half are
suitable for the larger lakes. But ;t will be
advantageous to have a few good varieties only
in colonies of each variety, and a dozen kinds
will suffice for most purposes. Of white Water
Lilies, the old Nymphaea alba is excelled by its
varieties and by several others, hence it may
be discarded for any but very large sheets of
water. It is too aggressive for association with
less rampant kinds. Candidissima is the choicer
form ; Gladstcniana has giant flowers, with
broad petals, surrounding a cluster of burnished
yellow stamens ; its leaves are on an equally
proportionately large scale. Marliacea albida
is another well-known and beautiful flower ;
tuberosa, a vigorous grower, with a multitude
of choice white and very fragrant blossoms, pos.
sessing stout shell-like petals, and its form
Richardsoni, whose petals are arranged as in
Dahlia Juarezii, very narrow toward the centra
and with -very wide sepals, which are pure
white throughout, the yellow centre rarely
showing. The above may be considered the
best white Water Lilies for our purpose. An-
other might still be added — Caroliniana nivea, a
medium. sized variety, with lovely refined blos-
soms. It requires planting in the warmest parts
of the lake, or few flowers will be produced.

Yellow or yellowish Water Lilies include the
charming but terribly aggressive Marliacea
chromatella, a variety of great beauty, and one
whose elegantly mottled purplish leaves need
ample space, and whose lovely flowers reach an
enormous size and great depth of colouring as
the plants gain strength. It is coloured a pretty
shade of deep sulphur at the base, which be-
comes paler at the petal tips. Sulphurea
grandiflora is a splendid form, with heart-
shaped marbled leafage and pale sulphur ele-
gantly pointed flowers, that deepen to a clear
yellow central cluster of stamens. " Chrysantha
also has marbled leaves and pure yellow flowers
that deepen day by day until they reach the
rich orange tint of the anther cluster. Its growth
is none too vigorous for a year or two after
planting. Aurora is well named. Its flowers
reveal none of their glorious colouring when
they first open, and may, in truth, be considered
dull, but on the second day the tints begin
to assert themselves, and the mixture of
yellow, rose and green, gradually fading to a
pinkish red, develops into a colour scheme per-
fectly modelled. Seignoureti has lovely bronze
spotted leaves, but the flowers are surpassed by
those of lucida. *■

Nymphasas whose flowers range from pink to
rose-red and crimson .shades are very numerous.
They are very difficult to describe, :or
a pallid rose flower may develop into a
j.lorious crimson ere it fades. Tuberosa rosea
claims precedence over all known W"ater Lilies
on account of its exquisite refinement. No

Water Lily I have ever met could compare with
it. It is a free grower, with emarginate pale
green leaves, and produces cup-shaped flowers
that are coloured a silvery pink, the petals pos-
sessing the sheen of mother-of-pearl. It is
exquisitely fragrant, and in no wise a difficult
plant to manage. James Brydon ranks next.
Its shapely flowers of reddish crimson hue are
perfectly rounded and broad petalled ; a fully-
expanded liower is always cup-shaped, and the
large cluster of deep orange stamens are seen in
splendid contrast. The leaves, too, are beauti.
ful — a rich bronze in a young state, and finally
becoming dark green. Colossea, whose flowers
are fragrant and with the colouring seen in
Peach blossoms ; William Dcogue, with flesh-
pink tinted flowers of that perfect outline so
characteristic of tuberosa, and William Fal-
coner, another hybrid whose massive flowers are
finally coloured a dark crimson, and whose
leaves are tinted red in a young state, are all
sturdy growers that one should plant.

Star-shaped Nymphaeas of pink or rod colour-
ings are well represented by the two very beau-
tiful plants, Gloriosa and Robinsoniana, the
former with multipetalled flowers of great
beauty, but whose tendency to form fasciated
growth is so marked that biennial lifting is

petals, and a pool of fire in the centre surroundec?
by flame-red stamens ; and Ignea, almost wholly
coloured flame-red throughout, complete a list
of strong-growing Water Lilies that for variety
of form, colour, leaf spotting, and general excel-
lence will prove as good a selection as can be
made. There are a few newer ones, but of too
recent introduction to admit of much being said
of them ; some are good, but little is known of
their duration or permanent value.

Any wide shallows that lend themselves to the
purpose may be planted W'ith a selection of the
smaller Water Lilies of the Laydekeri, Odorata,
and Pygmcea groups, but of these a fuller ac-
count will be given later.

Plant Water Lilies in April, May, and June
only ; sun-warmed water is essential to their
requirements, and without it there is little
chance of success.

{To be continiteci.)

PLANT PORTRAITS.

BCDDLEIA VARIABILIS, VAR. MAGNIFlCA.- Gnr^CH, MaV 2G.

LiLiuM Brow.n'ii, var. leucantha. — Garden, April 28

Oncidium tigrinum splendidum.— Ot'c/ir5, No. 2.

Raspberry de Billard. — A " perpetual " variety derived
from Belle de Fontenay. Revue Horticole, April H.

Rhododendron Pink Pearl. — Revue de I'HoHictilture
Beige, June 1.

FlG. 147. — A BED OF TL'Lirs IN EAST PRINCES STREET GARDENS, EDINIHRGH

desirable to keep it in a flowering state.
Robinsoniana has leaves marbled on the revers.'
side and on the petioles. Its flowers are
coloured an intense crimson. Both these hy-
brids make centrifugal tuberous growths, and
unless the clumps of tubers are frequently
divided nothing but small leaves develop, no
matter how well the plants may be cultivated.
Lucida, whose ample leaves are elegantly
marb'ed bronze, and whose starry, but large,
flowers are coloured ro.se-pink with vermilion
centres ; Frobelii, a kindred plant, with wine-
coloured flowers that deepen to a rich crimson,
and Ellisiana, with rose-red wide-petalled
flowers of exquisite form and fragrance, con-
stituta a trio of dark-coloured Water Lilies that
for vigour, hardihood, and wealth of flower will
prove hard to surpass.

The large group nf deep-coloured forms of
Nymphaea Marliacea represents a type of flower
mid-way between the star-pefalled and the cup-
flowered forms. Carnea and rosea, pale flesh-
pink and darker tinted respectively ; Flammea,
v/hose leaves are elegantly marbled, and whose
flov.'crs are deep red, v.ith paler tips to the

TULIPS AT EDINBURGH.

We have on se'/eral previous occasions illus-
trated the flower beds in the famous Princes-
.Street Gardens, Edinburgh, as they have ap-
peared in summer. At fig. 147 is presented an
illustration of one of the beds as it was seen a
fortnight or so ago. There are fifty-six beds in
the East Princes Street Gardens, and last autumn
they were planted with the following varieties
of Tulips : Proserpine, Vermilion Brilliant,
Ophir d'Or, St»nley, Joost Van Vondel, Queen
of Violets, Keizer Kroon, Moucheron, Prince of
Austria, Thomas Moore, John Bright, and
Couleur Cardinal. The groundwork of the
beds was composed of Arabis alpina, Myosotis
of sorts, Violas, and Alyssums. The beds con-
tained 75,000 bulbs. In the particular bed shown
the white Tulip Joost Van Vondel was planted,
and interspersed was Arabis alpina. The effect
was agreeable and pretty, the Tulip flowers
being well above the level of those of the
Ajabis.

Mr. J. V\'. McHattie, the city gardener, has
merited much praise for his treatment of tliis
and other parks in the city of Edinburgh.

June 9, ICOC]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

SGI

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

"DICTIONNAIRE ICONOGRAFHiyUE DES
ORCHIDEES."

The April issue of this excellent work gives
illustrations and descriptions of 13 good Orchids,
and representations of two genera, new to the
work, viz.. Coryanthes and Trichosma, have been
commenced.

Biiisso-Cattleya Peetersii. — This is a prettj' hybrid
obtained by M. Peelers, of Brussels, between
Brassavola glauca and Cattleya Lawrenceana. The
flowers are of rose-purple colour, the bases of the
petals and lip white with a yellow disc.

Cattleya Wincqxiana (Warscewiczii x velutina). —
Raised by M. Peelers, and in form resembUng C.
Maroni. Sepals bronzy-orange; petals rose-
coloured, with a yellowish flush ; side-lobes of the
lip white. The broadly expanded front lobe is of
rose-purple colour with claret-coloured veining.

Cattleya Adolphvm. — A pretty and floriferous
hybrid with rose-coloured flowers, the tips of the
side lobes and broad front lobe of the lip being
purplish-crimson. Raised by M. Peeters between
■Cattleya Gaskelliana and C. amethystoglossa.

Coryanthes maculata. — The singular old species,
with fleshy greenish flowers mottled with rose,
whose structural peculiarities have been so often
jioted.

Coryanthes spceiosa. — The flowers are of a bronzy
orange shade. Both these flowered with M.
Lionet, Brunoy, France.

Cypripedium Helen II. (insigne Chantini x bella-
tulum). — Two forms are illustrated, both with
white dorsal sepals with greenish base and lines of
rose-purple. The one has yellow petals and lip,
the former spotted with brown ; and the other is
nearly white. The petals are tinged and spotted
-with purple.

Cypripedinm Triomphe de Watermael. — A very
brightly-coloured flower which appeared with
Messrs. Duchesne & Lanthoine, Watermael,
Brussels. It is nearest to C. Tityus (Spicerianum
X oenanthum superbum), the greater part of the
flower being bright ruby crimson, the lower halves
of the petals and lower sepals being green.

Dendrobium Kingianum. — The old Australian
species with white and rose-coloured flowers.
The drawing was made from a plant in the
excellent collection of M. le Baron von Fursten-
berg, Hugenpoet, Rheinland.

Ltilio-Cattleya Wrigleyi. — Raised both by Messrs.
Veitcb and by M. Peeters between L. anceps and
C. Bowringiana. Both firms secured an Award
of Merit for the plant at the Royal Horticultural
Society, November 10, 1903. Flowers formed
like those of L. anceps ; rose colour, with dark
purple lip.

La-lio-Cttttleya Admiral Deivey (C. Warneri x
L-C. elegans). — A fine flower of purplish-rose
colour, with claret-coloured lip, margined with
lilac. Raised by Messrs. Charlesworth.

Odontoglossnm crislum Lindeni. — The finely-
blotched form illustrated in the Gaideners' Chron-
icle April 24, 1897, p. 269 (not 369, as printed in
the note).

Stanhopea tigrina. — One of the oldest, largest,
and most beautiful of the genus. The flowers are
yellow, marked with claret colour. Flowered by
Mme. Madoux, Auderghem, near Brussels.

Trichosma suavis. — The well-known species from
Sikkim and Khasia Hills, with fragrant, white
flowers, the labellum marked with yellow and
purple. A good cool house Orchid of compact
growth. Flowered by Baron von Furstenberg.

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

Climbers and Wall Shrubs.

A HANDV little book, bearing the title of "A
Concise Handbook of Climbers, Twiners, and
\Vall Shrubs," has just been issued by Messrs.
Melhueii and Co, Its author is Mr. Purefoy

Fitzgerald, whose preface is needlessly apolo-
getic. His selections are, as we think wisely,
very comprehensive, and the gardener will not
quarrel with him because his definitions are
vague and elastic. Mr. Fitzgerald aims high in
the matter of nomenclature — " One plant, one
name, and that name to be recognised all the
world over " is his ideal. We believe such an
ideal to be unrealisable, but the nearer we can
get to it the better, and the Index Ke-wcnsis,
the Kew "hand-lists," and other works com-
piled after the same model as the Index have
greatly helped us in this matter. But even
the Kew Index is not infallible ; indeed.
It does not pretend to be, and the con-
stant progress of science necessitates modi,
fications and entails constant addition. Peo-
ple complain of the barbarous Latin names,
as well they may, from their point of
view, but we generally find that the grum-
blers are people who do not seriously
want to know anything about the plants they
cultivate. If they do, they very soon realise
the advantages of a system of nomenclature
which is, as the author says, recognised all the
world over. If a Latin name be made use of,
it can be traced to its source in the records,
but in the vast majority of cases there is no
means of verifying a popular name. A French-
man or a German could not recognise the words
" Prinirose " or " Daisy," for instance, and
those among us who think those names have
long been associated with particular well-known
plants may be surprised to learn that their
present application is comparatively recent,
and that our forefathers applied the names to
quite other plants. Again, such words as Lilium
and Laurus have a definite and universally-ac-
cepted botanical signification, but when, in com.
mon parlance, we speak of Lilies or Laurels
we are really speaking of scores of widely dif-
ferent plants, the great majority of which have
no real claim to the name they bear. The
care that has been exercised in the compila-
tion of this book shows that the author has ap-
preciated the difficulties of the nomenclature
question, and has done his best to meet them.
After the preface, w'hich has elicited these
remarks, we come to some excellent directions
for the location and formation of pergolas, and
for the selection of climbers wherewith to cover
them. This section is followed by an alpha-
betical list of plants that may be used for covering
walls and similar purposes. First the name is
given, then the popular appellation if there is
one, if not, one is specially manufactured by
translating the Latin name. This latter pro-
cess is unnecessary. In practice, for in-
stance, who ever speaks or writes of the
free-blooming Abelia or the green-flowered
.\bobra? Following the name are given concise
details relating to the appearance of the plant,
the natural order to which it belongs, its
synonyms, and the method of cultivation. It
is remarkable what an amount of information is
compressed into a small space, and so far as
we have been able to test it the information
given is accurate and trustworthy. Some of
the plants mentioned are not absolutely hardy ;
for instance, Buddleia globosa survives most
winters, but it was killed outright near London
in the "grand" winters we had experience of
some years ago. Even against a wall our own
plants like the CoUetias and the Choisya were
killed outright. The author shows that he is
" up-to-date " by his inclusion of many of the
more recent introductions of Messrs. James
Veitch and Sons, which have not yet become
generally diffused in gardens. CoUetia spinosa
and C. cruciata are both included, but it has
been proved that C. cruciata is only a stage of
C. spinosa. as may be seen from figures
given in these volumes in February 13,
1S86, p. 205, fig. 40. Misprints are sur-

prisingly few. Abutilon megaponticum should,
of course, be megapotamicum. Vitis capriolata
should be capreolata ; but, as we have said, the
reader will have to exercise much diligence to
find slips of this kind. The illustrations are
numerous, the index copious, and the whole
book well got up and carefully edited.

The Garden Beautiful: and How to Make

IT so. By A. C.Curtis. Smith, Elder cS: Co.

The author's definition of a garden makes it
a place for plants to be beautiful and at home
in. It is as well to start with a definition like
this, for people's tastes and predilections are
so different. For some the plants are mere ad-
juncts, for which coloured tiles or broken
brick-bats can be substituted to furnish colour
effects. Then there is the nursery garden, .or
the botanical garden proper, where beautv of
outline and arrangement are sacrificed to con-
siderations of utility or investigation. Acting
in conformity with his definition, as above
quoted, the author descants very sensibly on
what should, rather than on what may, be done
in a small garden. There are some very useful
plans which will be serviceable to suburban
gardeners. We cannot attempt to criticise these
plans in detail, as so much depends on the lie
of the ground, the aspect, the soil and other
conditions, which cannot be satisfactorily ex-
pressed in a small plan. It would seem to us,
at first sight, that the author has not sufficiently
commended either the evergreen shrubs like the
Rhododendrons or the very beautiful spring-
flowering trees. As we read further, however,
we find that the claims of these plants are not
overlooked. It is, however, true that in small
gardens, such as the author is dealing with, the
plant-lover is apt to be too ambitious and over-
stock his little plot. If the owner is a botanist
he can hardly have too many, but then he must
sacrifice those graceful effects which are so de-
lightful to the gardener, and his plants will not,
and cannot, be so well cultivated as they would
be were their numbers fewer and they had mure
space in which to develop. The usual alpha-
betical catalogue of suitable plants to grow is
sandwiched in between the general directions,
and a chapter on rock and water gardens,
which, especially the first, test the gardeners
art severely. Roses, of course, have a chapter
to themselves, and we are glad to find such
cordial appreciation of ZephyrineDrouhin, which,
till lately, at least, was better known on the
Continent than here. It is just as well to re-
mind the occupier of a small garden that if ho
wants Roses — and Roses especially — he must
sacrifice much of his garden to them, or other-
wise content himself with climbing or pillar
Roses, and to such as can be grown against a
wall.

The kitchen garden come.s in for a consider-
able share of attention, but our space, or the
want of it, forbids our making more than a pass-
ing mention of it. In conclusion, we may say that
amid the myriads of gardening books lately is-
sued this is decidedly one of the best. The
technical details are well explained, and the
literary style fluent and devoid of the rampant
verbiage with which some writers strive to con-
ceal their ignorance of practical gardening.

NEW INVENTIONS.

BUBBLE FOUNTAIN.

Fountains have lately been sliown that form
and discharge bubbles. If the atmosphere be
calm the bubbles, being inflated with gas, rise
in a column in the air and form a very beautiful
spectacle.

The bubble fountain can be used as a garden
decoration, and it is proposed to instal a large
fountain on this principle at the Crystal Palace,
Sydenham. The patentees are Messrs. Dickinson
and Shields, Alliance Mills, Stoke Newington, N.

362

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 9, 1906.

COLONIAL NOTE.

SOUTH AFRICA.

Pretoria. — A correspondent writes : —

"Our altitude is about 4,500 feet, but our tem-
perature is about 2° F. above the normal for this
altitude and latitude, owing to our lying in a
narrow valley sheltered by the Magaliesberg and
other hills.

" Pinus halepensis seems to be at home here.
P. radiata (insignis) and Cupressus macrocarpa do
not last for more than a few years and then die
out; this is, of course, natural, as they are coastal
species in their native haunts subject to a great
deal of moisture from the sea-fogs even in the dry
season. Casuarina Cunninghamiana is the most
conspicuous and widely planted tree in Pretoria.
Planted in rows and avenues, where its roots have
access to the irrigation and drainage furrows
which border every street in the old towns, it
thrives splendidly. But planted in forest blocks it
proves a hopeless failure ; there are several such
blocks near Pretoria and Johannesburg, perhaps
10 to 15 years of age. Callitris robusta is quite at
home. For hedges, Cupressus macrocarpa has been
largely used, but dies out badly unless its roots
are near a water-furrow ; where it does well it
makes a beautiful hedge, but it is too often patchy
and yellow. Biota orientalis is also used, but
it is here subject to attack by an aphis, which
deposits honey-dew, which soon becomes covered
with a black fungus mould, producing a disgusting
tarry looking deposit on the foliage.

" The English Oak thrives in similar situ.T.tions in
the town ; we have some fairly good specimens
planted in 1872 and now about 25 feet high.
Phytolacca dioica is not unfrequently planted ; it
thrives and matures seed, but has been somewhat
nipped by the severe frosts of the last two
winters.

" Eucalypts are largely planted. E. globulusand
E. tereticornis are among the most abundant
species, and some fairly fine specimens of the
former are to be seen. E. robusta does remark-
ably well. Firmiana platanifolia seeds every
year. Ligustrum japonicum makes one of the best
hedges where a little water is available, and is
largely used. Hakea saligna, H. suaveolens,
Doryalis caffra (Kei apple), Leptospermum Isevi-
gatum, and Lycium horridum are also used. In
old Dutch gardens the common Quince is a
favourite hedge plant, and the Pomegranate is
also planted for this purpose ; the idea in both
cases is evidently to combine ornament with
utility. Violets do well in shaded places. Roses
make a brilliant show and have two flowering
seasons. Pelargoniums are scarcely ever grown.
Carnations and Cannas thrive amazingly. Lager-
strcemia indica is our most conspicuous orna-
mental shrub, flowering from December to
February. Hibiscus rosa sinensis also makes a
brilliant show in summer.

" Tne most conspicuous creepers are Bignonia
venusta and Solanum Wendlandi. Bougainvilleas
are abundant, but are usually ' off colour.'

"It is interesting to find that North Mexican
plants and those from adjacent Arizona, New
Mexico, and Western Texas, give the most satis-
factory results of any herbaceous plants grown
here. Such a result is hardly to be expected, for
the vogion referred to is one of a Winter and Spring
rainfall, whereas we enjoy Summer and .Autumn
rains. The most conspicuous examples of the
point in question are the following : — Cosmos: I
have never seen finer specimens ; they grow like
weeds and are spreading over the veld, and along
the railway lines from one ganger's cottage to
another. The Zinnia is becoming one of the
commonest weeds along trek-roads ; it quickly
reverts to a miserable little, single, brick-red

form. Gaillardias, Coreopsis, CEnothera rosea,
and CE. tetraptera. Oenothera biennis grandi-
flora, Mirabilis Jalapa, Ipomaea purpurea, and
Tagetes erecta, are among the other plants of
that region which show particular adaptability to
the Transvaal climate. All of them, except the
Gaillardias and Coreopsis, are rapidly establishing
themselves in the Colony as' garden escapes.' A'."

Vellozia retinekvis.
The illustration, fig. 148, kindly forwarded by
Mr. J. Burtt Davy, shows a plant of Vellozia
retinervis in situ among rocks at Pretoria. The
flowers are of a pale lavender or lilac colour, with
the fragrance of Heliotrope. It flowers '.nly for
some two weeks in the year, after the early spring
rains. In winter the leaves turn brown and the
whole plant looks dead ; at that time of year the
bare brown stems look not unlike the tail f the
Chacma baboon, and the Boer children, therefore,
call it the " Babiaan-stertje " (i.e., Baboon's little

Fig. 148. — vellozia reti.nervis growing in its
natural habitat in south africa.

tail). The plant grows in very arid situations,
among rocks, and is a true xerophyte. I have
transplanted several to my garden, but only a few
are alive, and none of these have yet flowered.
Like many of our plants, it is hard to transplant it
successfully. J. B. D.

QUEENSLAND.

The Colonial botanist, Mr. F. Manson Bailey,
continues his useful publication, entitled Coiitii-
butioiis to the Flora of Queensland. They appear
originally in successive numbers of the Queensland
Agricultural Journal, but are also issued separately.
In one of the recent parts we observe descriptions
of three new species of Nepenthes with figures,
N. Pascoensis, N. Armbrustae and N. Garra-
wayae.

TOBAGO.

The most coijspicuous tree to be seen in flower
at this time of the year in Tobago is the Cogwood
tree (local name) Tecoraa serratifolia, Don.

When fully grown it is from 25 to 30 feet high.
The flowers are produced in large quantities and
are of a bright yellow colour. They resemble, to
a great extent, the yellow flowering form of Azalea
mollis, although the (lowers are not so large.

The tree blooms in the dry season, and generall)'
produces three successive lots of flowers before
the rains commence. The wood is hard and

heavy, and is used locally for posts, &c., where
strength and durability are required.

Cassia marginata, when in flower, is a showy
flowering tree, and at a distance resembles an Apple
tree in full flower. Unlike most tropical flowering
trees — which as a rule soon lose their flowers — this-
tree retains them for three to four weeks, and at
this season of the year is one mass of flowers.
The tree deserves to be grown in every tropicati
Botanic Garden. H. Milieu, Curator, Jobago^
B. W.I.

VEGETABLES.

THREE GOOD VEGETABLES.

I have made exhaustive trials of many vege-
tables and should like to direct attention to the-
following : — Sutton's Favourite Cabbage Lettuce-
is grown as our main variety for early work.
Sown at the same time as the Brown Cos, it stands,
the winter quite as -ivell, and comes into use-
much earlier. The gardens here are very bleak,
being fully exposed, but severe weather does not
seem to injure this Lettuce any more than it does-
the coarser kind. Its edible qualities are un-
equalled.

Fa\ourite Kale will furnish a large suppljr
of greens, being much more productive than
the ordinary Scotch and other Kales. Our
seeds were sown during the first week in July, andi
the quality of greens cut from a given area of.
ground far exceeded that of any other variety.

Satisfaction Broccoli will so commend itself
to growers that I think I may use the expression,
"once grown, always grown." It possesses a.
very hardy constitution, is of first quality, andi
is firm and solid. J. Bucliland, Walthamstow HaW
Gardens, Scvenoaks.

ELLAM'S CABBAGE.

I QUITE agree with Mr. Beckett (see p. 347).
We have scarcely seen any bolting, but one or two.
plants may have done so. It is a first-rate early
Cabbage. I grow for succession ' ' Early Heartwelb
Marrow," and very few of this have bolted. It is.
a fine Cabbage and of delicious flavour. ' ' Model ' '
is on the same plot, and this is a fine large, and
shapely Cabbage. It is of a nice colour and remains
useable a long time. These are the only varieties
we have now, and altogether there are about
2,500 plants. Flower of Spring and others are
excellent, but we cannot grow all the varieties. Last
year I grew nine sorts, and those mentioned
above were the best. IF. A. Cook, Leonardslce
Gardens, Horsham.

Hitherto I have lauded the praises of this

variety, but after my experience this year I must
modify my praise, as quite one half of the plants
in a large breadth have gone to flower. The seed
was sown at about the usual date, which is
July 28, and has always proved satisfactory. We
make a second sowing of a maincrop variety a
fortnight later. Although our crop proved so un-
worthy of the space afforded it, other crops of
other varieties in local gardens have not suffered
in the same way. Our seed was obtained from a
reliable firm, therefore I feel sure the strain was
right. We hope to give " Flower of Spring" a
trial with "Ellam's" this season, and trust we
shall have more satisfactory returns next spring.
/. Mayne, Bicton, Devonshire.

THE CARTER SPINACH.
We have been gathering for eight months this-
variety of Spinach raised from one sowing. The
plants withstood the winter and spring with im-
punity, and I would recommend those who have
failed with other varieties to try this one, ■ If
the seeds be sown in well trenched and manuredi
soil, failure will be next to impossible. W. A,
Ccok, Leonardslce.

June 9, 1906.]'

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

363

BEDDING-OUT TIME AT COVENT
: GARDEN MARKET.

Every spring-time, as soon as the earliest
trees begin to put forth their leaves, the
suburban Londoner thinks of his garden, and
makes preparations for the season's work. It is
an inspiriting sight every evening, but especially
at mid-day on Saturdays, to witness the number
of passengers from the great railway termini
who carry in theix arms some plant or plants
which they have selected from the florist's win-
dow or, maybe, from the coster's barrow. The
suburban gardener is of the most persistent and
determined type of men imaginable, for a mere
enumeration of the difiSculties and trials that
beset his path would require more space than
can ba spared for the purpose. It is evident,
however, that he so far succeeds in overcoming
them that his work meets with sufficient compen-
sation to induce him to work with increased in-

hand." He accordingl}' goes to the florist or to
a market stand like that shown in the illustration
at fig. 149, where he may be certain of purchasing
all, or nearly all, of the varieties he has care-
fully marked in his catalogue, or written in his
garden note-book. In the illustration may be
seen groups of Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelar-
goniums, Marguerites, and Pansies in flower,
besides a large number of young plants in shal-
low market store boxes. Rambler looses, and all
• he popular climbing plants. Fern roots, suitable
plants for the rockery, Asters, Stocks, Antir-
rhinums, Calceolarias, Dahlias, and the little
"creeping Jenny" or (Lysimachia nummularia),
which, with its golden leaved variety, is a
favourite London plant, almost rivalling the
famous London Pride (Saxifraga umbrosa), also
Celery plants. Cabbages, Rhubarb, herbs in
variety, these may all be obtained from the plant
emporium. Visitors to Covent Garden Market

f. 44, which was prepared from a painting sent
by Mr. W. H. Stansfield, does not bear much
resemblance to the plant now in flower. The
leaves in the figure are too acute, while the
flower tube is much longer, and the flower itself
is flatter and more rounded. P. deorum has
dark green, strap-shaped leaves, about 3 inches
long, in a dense rosette. The flower scape rises
about 8 inches high, and bears a head of about
20 flowers, each over J inch in diameter, the
colour being a rich, rosy purple. It is a native
of Mt. Rilo, in Bulgaria, where it was first found
by Prof. Velenovsky in 1889, growing in moist,
grassy pastures at an elevation of about 8,000
feet. Its nearest ally in the genus is the beauti-
ful little P. glutinosa, which is somewhat difli-
cult to establish in many parts of this country.
They are both bog-loving species, but of the two-
P. deorum is the easiest to manage, as well as
being a much more handsome-looking plant. It

Fig. 149. — \ POPULAR "st.^nd" in covent garden market in spring and early summer.

terest and zeal in each succeeding year. In
consequence of this there are thousands, indeed
millions, of plants sold in London each spring
for supplying the needs of amateur gardeners.
The larger number is disposed of by importunate
costers, who become, for a season, professional
plant-sellers, and call at almost every house in
London, not only every day, but two or three
times in the day, with their Marguerites, Pelar-
goniums, Fuchsias, Lobelia, &c., and annuals.
It is hardly too much to say that every suburban
housekeeper dreads the advent of the plant-sea.
son, although thei>e are few houses where the
much abused coster fails to effect sales.

The enthusiastic amateur, however, who at-
tended last season's shows, and has acquired the
education derived from a study of some of the
catalogues is not content to buy from the bar-
rows, but prefers to choose his plants from a
collection, and obtain them, as he says, at "first.

will see the stand we have illustrated at the
western end immediately beyond the Central
Avenue under the shadow of St. Paul's Church.
As soon as the season for " Southampton "
Strawberries commences, the area devoted to
plants is curtailed, and later when Strawberries
arrive from the home counties, the store boxes
are almost expelled for the season.

KEW NOTES.

Primula deorum,
A specimen of this rare and interesting plant
is now in flower in the Alpine House. Although
it has been in cultivation since 1892, when it
flowered with Mr. T. S. Ware, of Tottenham, it
has never become common till recently, a mone
plentiful supply of the plants having been intro-
duced during the last year or two. The figure
in the Gardeners' Chronicle, 1905, xxxvii., 98,

may be grown outside in an open part of the bog-
garden, or in a moist, shady position in the-
rockery. The flowers last a long time in perfec-
tion, for, although the early ones opened: in the>^
first week in May, they were still good at the end'
of the month.

Draba elata.
This is a new introduction from the Hima-
layas, where it is found on the sub-alpine ranges,
of Sikkim and Kashmir at elevations ranging
from 13,000 to 14,000 feet. Unlike many of our
well-known European species, which are usually-
of dwarf and compact habit, D. elata is a tall-
growing plant of biennial habit. It forms in the
first year a rosette of spatulate leaves, - suc-
ceeded in the following spring by stems about 1
foot high, sparsely clothed with leaves, and bear-
ing heads of bright yellow flowers. Individual
plants do not make much of a show, but in
groups they are eftective in early spring.

3U4

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 9, 1906.

Iris demavendica.
Plants of this species were received at Kew
from Herr Max Leichtlin, of Baden Badsn, in the
year 1003, with the inforaiation that the species
was a native of Mt. Demavend, in Persia. When
it flowered this year, about the middle of May, it
proved to be a most distinct and interesting
plant of very dwarf habit, belonging to the sec-
tion of the genus known as Cushion Irises. The
stems, which are about 6 inches high, each pro-
duce two large flowers of a rich, claret-red
colour. The standards are paler in colour than
the rest of the flower, while the falls are richly
vfined with lines of a deeper shade. It has
proved quite hardy on a warm south border at
the foot of a wall, under the same treatment
accorded to Irises of the Oncocyclus group.

Brvanthus Breweri (A. Gray).

The members of this genus form little bush-like
plants, and are mostly natives of the mountains of
North-Western America. There are only four
species in cultivation, of which B. Breweri has lately
flowered for the first time at Kew. Seeds of this
species were received from Baron von St. Paul, of
Fischbach, in Silesia, in the year 1896, and it has
thus taken a long time in reaching its flowering
stage. This plant was first collected by W. H.
Brewer in 1S60-2, and is found on the rocky
mountain slopes of the Sierra Nevada at an
elevation between 9,500 feet to 11,000 feet, grow-
ing in rocky crevices, where it receives the cool
drip of the melting snows. In other places it
grows on the level near mountain lakes, forming
quite heather-like patches of considerable extent.
It is somewhat similar in appearance to B.
■empetriformis, which is a native of the same
region, but, instead of bearing its flowers in clusters
at the top of the stem, B. Breweri produces its
saucer-shaped flowers in long racemes. These are
purplish-rose in colour, and are of large size for
the genus. From 6 inches to 1 foot high, it is
of spreading habit and will make a charming
companion for the other peat-loving plants in the
rock garden. U'. /.

LiLIUlI SUTCHUANENSE.

This beautiful Lilium first flowered in this
country at Kew in July, 1899, having been re-
ceived from M. Maurice de Vilmorin two years
previously. He raised it fiom s;eds sent by a
missionary from China. In 1904 Mess.s. Veitch,
of Chelsea, introduced a large quantity of bulbs,
Mr. Wilson having found it growing freely on
ihe Chino-Tibetan frontier at an elevation of
from 7,000 to 9,000 feet.

Some plants have recently flowered in No. 4
(■reenhouse. The species might well be described
as an early flowering L. t'grir.um. The bulbils in
the axils of the leaves are absent, and the flowers
are smaller, but the colour is very similar, and
the plants are quite as tall, several being up-
wards of 6 feet in height, one plant carrying
25 flowers and buds. It appears to be of easy
culture, flowering, I am told, in three years
from seeds, so we may reasonably hope it has
come to stay.

The bulb is rather small, and taking this into
consideration the tall, vigorous growth de-
veloped by several of the bulbs is remarkable
when compared with that of some of the Lilies.

A plant only recently flowerirg was of particu.
lar interest, two flowers being produced on each
of the three lower flower .'-talks. It may be a
common occurrence, but this is the only in-
stance that has come under my notice. The
■colour is orange-scarlet, the flowers on some of
the plants are freely spotted dark brown, while
in others this character is not so marked.

A figure of the plant appeared as a supple-
mentary illustration to the Gardeners' Chronicle
for Ju.y 2Bth, 1905. A. O.

The Week's Work.

THE TLOV/Ell GARDEN.

By Hugh A. I'ettigkew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Fagan's ("i :tle, Glamorganshire.

Biennials. — The present is a good time to sow
seeds of biennials, either in beds in the open
ground or in boxes in cold frames. It is a mis-
take to postpone doing so until later, as the cry,
hot weather of July and August is detrimental to
the germination of the seeds and to the success
of the young seedlings, \\allflowers are amongst
the best of biennial flowers, and they are invalu-
able for spring gardening. In sowing seeds of
Wallflowers in the open care should be taken to
prepare a good seed-bed for them. The soil
should be moderately rich and friable, and be
v/ell broken up. Sow the seeds thinly, and thin
out the seedlings when large enough, allowing
sufficient space for each plant to develop pro-
perly. During dry weather see that they do not
suffer from want of water, and keep the beds
perfectly clean by the removal of all weeds. As
Wallflowers are so apt to suffer bv prolonged
drought, after they have been plante'd out in the
autumn, the practice of raising seedlings in boxes
and then potting them up into 5-inch pots has
much to commend it. treated thus, they are
planted out into their permanent quarters with,
out disturbance of the roots, and thereby are
enabled to withstand any adverse weather condi-
tions. The extra trouble and expense entailed
by doing this is recompensed by the perfection
of bloom and the absence of " gaps " in the
spring. The Canterbury Bell (Campanula
Medium) is another good biennial plant that
should find a place in every garden. The
double and semi-double strains are to be pre-
ferred to the old single-flowered varieties, as
they are not only superior in form, but also in
richness and diversity of colour. The seeds
should be sown now, either in open beds or in
boxes in a cool frame, and when large enough
the seedlings should be pricked out into a well-
prepared bed in a shady corner of the garden,
affording them water if dry weather is experi-
enced. By September they will be strong plants,
ready for planting into permanent positions in the
flower borders. If the plants are examined in
summer when they have finished flowering, and
all the old blooms are removed from theni, they
will flower again in autumn. Seeds of the Sweet
William (Dianthus barbatus) should be sown in
open beds in as sunny a position as possible, and
when the plants are large enough transplant
them into good soil about 6 inches apart. In
September they may be planted into their perma-
nent quarters. The single varieties, with one or
two exceptions, are to be preferred to the double

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart,, Burford, Surrey.
Odont-.tglossums. — At this season a large num.
ber of Odontoglossums of the O. crispum type
are in bloom, and when the flowers have re-
mained open for a reasonable time it is advis-
able to cut off the spikes rather than to allow
them to remain on the plant until the pseudo-
bulbs shrivel, as in such cases it is difficult to
restore the plant to its former strength. Small
imported plants that are flowering for the first
time should have their spikes removed soon after
the flowers open, and be afforded a short rest
afterwards. The foliage of Odontoglossums,
after flowering freely, especially during very hot
weather, may appear to be less robust than
formerly, but if the plants receive careful at-
tention, and have plenty of roots, the leaves will
return to their normal condition when the nights
lengthen. For some time after flowering the
plants will require only very moderate supplies
of water. Keep the surface of the compost only
suflSciently moist to preserve the moss in a
fresh, growing condition, and to prevent undue
shrinking of the pseudo-bulbs. Afford plenty cf
ventilation. Keep the plants well shaded from
strong sunshine, and afford them a light spray-
ing overhead several times each day whenever
the weather is warm and bright. These cool-
growing plants will require no more fire heat
for several months to come.

Treatment of freshly-imported Plants. — At the
present time a large number of Odontoglossums
is being imported into this country. Purchasers

of these should first of all prepare a convenient
place for them in the cool house, and spread a
thin layer of sphagnum-moss on the stage. The
pseudo-bulbs should then be freed from all rub-
bish and decayed portions and laid upon the
sphagnum-moss in such a manner that they will
not touch each other. Spray them lightly over-
head occasionally to encourage the shrivelled
pseudo-bulbs to plump to their normal condition.
New growth and roots will soon appear, when
each "piece" should be placed separately into
comparatively small pots which have been half
filled with well-dried pieces of the Fern-rhizome
taken from the peat when preparing it for use.
The compost should consist of well-drained peat
and freshly-gathered sphagnum-moss. To fix
these newly-imported plants firmly, a good plan
is to place a strong piece of the Fern-rhizome
down between two pseudo-bulbs, and then to
twist It around the stem of the plant, the ends
being pressed into the drainage, afterwards fill-
ing up to the base of the plant with the potting
compost. Alford very light waterings only until
the new growths gain in strength and roots be-
come plentiful.

Lyeaste Skinneri. — In the same house the varie-
ties of Lyeaste Skinneri have passed out of
bloom, and immediately growth re-commences
the plants should be repotted. They will grow
perfectly well in a compost of thoroughly-
drained peat, loam, and sphagnum-moss. Al-
though Lycastee are moisture-loving plants, the
young growths will quickly decay if the plants
are potted too low, also if much water is afforded
before roots become plentiful. Water them as
advised in a former calendar for the repotted
deciduous Calanthes. Place the Lycastes at the
warmer end of the house, and sponge the leaves
frequently.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, .\llerton, Liverpool.

Plants for House Decoration. — No plants so
well withstand the adverse conditions to which
they are exposed in dwelling-rooms as the
Aspidistras, and the large, leathery foliage of
well-grown plants renders them \ery appropriate
for decorative purposes, A. lurida vanegata
being singularly effective. If properly hardened
before being placed in the house, these plants
are capable of withstanding draughts, confined
air, warm places, or cool, and may be used in
all these conditions. It is important that the
leaves be kept free from dust, alike for the sake
of appearance as for the health of the plants
themselves. W'hen it becomes necessary to
increase the stock, this can be effected by divi-
sion. Break up the plants and pot up the divi-
sions into small pots, using a compost of leaf
soil with a liberal addition of sand. After such
treatment the leaves will need to be supported in
an upright position with sticks. The best time
perhaps to divide the plants would be in the
early spring months, but the month of June
affords a very good opportunity, as there is now
less pressure in the propagating department.
When plants have to be grown under cool treat-
ment in an ordinary greenhouse, they do not push
latent buds freely, and are a long time in getting
established, and attaining a serviceable size.
The pace is too slow if a number of plants of
various sizes has to be maintained. In a warmer
and moister atmosphere also, the leaves will he
much finer, and the variegation of the foliage
more defined. When thus grown, it is only
necessary, when the plants are of the size re-
quired, to remove them to a cooler and freer
atmosphere, and they will afterwards be quite
hard enough for use in the dwelling-house.
-\spidistras do not require a large amount of
pot room, but good drainage is very important,
as the plants need copious supplies of water,
and will not succeed if the soil becomes sour.
Grow the plants in a light position, and syringe
the foliage freely and frequently. A compost of
rich loam, leaf soil, and a liberal amount of
sand will grow them well.

Pits and Frames. — Most of the bedding plants
will have been removed out of doors, and thus
ample room will now be afforded for growing
Begonias, Celosias, .Salvias, Petunias, Acaly-
phas, etc., all of which will be requireci during
the next few months in the conservatory
and plant houses. The pits should be made
thoroughly clean, and the walls receive a thin

]UNE 9, :90G.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

JG.5

coat of limewash. Let the frames be closed
early in the afternoon, and use the syringe freely
to create atmospheric moisture.

General remarks. — The main sowing of Cine-
rarias for flowering in early spring, and also a
sowing of herbaceous Calceolarias may now be
made. Prick off seedling plants of Cinerarias
from earlier sowings, and encourage them to
grow quickly. Place the plants in frames facing
to the north, and when they have become estab-
lished remove the lights on fine days.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKlNSHAw, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.

Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire,
Early Muscat Grapes. — The dull, cold weather
which has prevailed has necessitated the exercise
ct much care in the matter of ventilation and
the employment of more iire heat than is usual,
which, '11 so far as it tends to keep the at-
mosphere in a dry condition, favours red-spider.
The foliage should be frequently examined, and
any leaf .hat is affected with this pest sponged
with sulphur and water, or a solution of Gis-
hurst Compound. When the Grapes have passed
the stoning stage, the atmospheric temperature
at night should be 70 degrees, allowing it to rise
10 to 12 degrees higher during the day. Admit a
little air very early in the morning on bright
days, and increase the amount in proportion to
the power of the sun's rays. In many gardens
the cultivator has to utilise the vineries for grow-
ing plants, and sometimes these get a little green-
fly on them. Such plants, if possible, should
be taken out at once, and the vines be given a
fumigation with good tobacco paper; not the
XL-All Compound, if Muscat of Alexandria is
growing in the house, for its use seems to cripple
the foliage of this particular variety. If the houses
are very low and nearly air-tight, with large
squares of glass, it may be necessary to afford
the vines a little shade during hot sunshine by
throwing a net over the glass, which will prevent
injury to the foliage. It is not a wise plan to
overcrop Muscat vines, for one perfectly-
finished bunch is worth three or four imperfectly-
finished one. Over-cropping also weakens
the roots and renders the vines more subject to
insect pests.

T.ate Grapes. — The berries on the varieties
Lady Downes and Black Alicante usually set
very freely, and if they are not thinned out
early they soon become completely wedged to-
gether ; the operation of thinning is thus
made much more difficult, and the " bloom "
is often rubbed off the berries which are to re-
main. The bunches will also require to be
thinned out when it can be seen by the culti-
vator which will make the most .shapely and
even-sized bunches. Lady Downes Seedling fre-
quently produces rather long shoulders, and in
seme instances these are better cut away. When
thinning late Grapes the berries should be left
with ample room for swelling, and so that air
can get right through the bunches, especially in
respect to the variet}' Lady Downes, which is
so subject to scalding. If a " chink " of air is
admitted to the house the first thing in the morn-
ing it will be the means of preventing scalding
taking place.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmind G. Loher,

Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.
Fig Trees. — These trees are very strong
growers, and therefore need much regulating at
this season. All shoots that have developed to the
degree that space will allow should be stopped,
especially those that have reached the top of
the wall. If these be checked in good time, the
flow of sap will become more evenly distributed
over the tree. Examine the ties to see if there
is room left for the shoots to swell. Tie or
nail-in only as many growths as are required to
maintain the balance of the tree, and all the
laterals may be removed. Apply liquid manure
to the roots during the time the fruits are swell-
ing, syringing the trees occasionally with solt
water.

Pot Strawberries. — Plants which have been
kept for the production of early runners will now
be producing them in quantities. Preparation
should be made for putting them into suitable
pots. They may be layered into 6-inch pots
straight away, or into 3-inch pots. Use
moderately rich loam, and make this firm. Ko

crocks need be used in the smaller pots. The
runners from two rows should be drawn together
into one for convenience of watering, leaving
every alternate row clear. Secure the layers into
the pots by means of wire pegs, which are capa-
ble of lasting for many years.

Raspberries. — Thin out whilst still small the
growths from each stool, leaving a few of those
which are strongest and best placed. On light
soils a good watering may be necessary by
means of the hose.

Pears. — Thin out these fruits, especially those
of very early varieties, such as Beurre Giffard_
Citron des Carmes, Doyenne d'Ete, Clapp's
Favourite, Jargonelle, and Williams' Bon
Chretien. The three varieties mentioned last
should be most severely thinned in order to pro-
duce good flavoured fruits. Later varieties, such
as Ne Plus Meuris, Marie Louise, Emile
d'Heyst, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Knight's
Monarch, &c., should also be severely thinned.
In thinning, let this be done .so that the crop will
be evenly disposed over all the tree. The
strongest shoots may be stopped. Nail in the
leaders unless they 'have filled the available
space, when these should also be stopped. Expose
the fruits as much as possible to the sun's rays.
If the trees have been treated as previously re-
commended, very little insect life will now be
found amongst the foliage. Afford copious sup-
plies of water to trees growing against walls in
light soils. Pear tiees on light soils very quickly
suffer through drought, and therefore need an
amount of water even when none is required by
trees on clayey loams.

/'/k»m.— Nail or tie-in young growths. Stop
the strongest if more shoots are required on ex-
tending trees. Stop all the strongest foreright
shoots to four or five leaves. Allow the weaker
growths to strengthen, and go over the tree again
in a fortnight. Keep the trees clear of insects by
the frequent use of XL-wash or quassia. Thin
out the fruits as early as possible, especially
late, large fruiting varieties and all those of the
Gage .section.

THE APIARY.

Bv Chloris.
Preparations for the Honey F/oii-.— Most bee-
keepers will be weary of waiting for good
weather, and this disappointed feeling may lead
to failure if not shaken off. The suitable
weather will come, then let us be prepared to
take full advantage of it. Get the supers fitted,
and, in fitting up the sections, wet the joints
well with hot water so that they will bend easily
without fear of snapping. Use extra thin founda-
tion with a worker base and full sheets. There
is no economy in putting up starters, and the
sections fitted with them are rarely so well filled
as when full sheets are used. To get the bees to
take readily to sections, put on crates of shal-
low frames of drawn-out comb. When the bees
are working well in the shallow frames substi-
tute the sections, tightly wedged up in the rack
. to prevent unnecessary propolising.

Buying Sviartns. — Those about to commence
beekeeping have probably placed orders with
strangers for swarms. Without doubt it is a
very good plan to commence with a good swarm
rather than to purchase second-hand stocks.
The novice has no idea of the dangers of pur-
chasing bees from unknown sources, and so I
warn him of one thing, and that is, to have a
written guarantee that the bees are from a
healthy stock free from that dreaded scourge
" Foul Brood." If the vendor will not give the
guarantee (written), shun his bees as you would
a leper.

Brood Thrown (9a/.— Many have been alarmed
because brood (dead) has been seen on the
alighting board. This may have been due to
one of two causes, in some few casfs, perhaps,
to both. The chief cause of dead brood being
on the alighting board is lack of sufficient food
inside, and may be regarded as a danger signal,
and a very reliable one, too, that feeding is
necessary at once. Another cause of this is that
the brood has been chilled, perhaps by the
severe weather, and the dead brood in both
cases has been cast out. Even now many
colonies need feeding ; if they are not fed, they
will certainly not be ready to take full advan-
tage of the clover honey flow.

Using the Dnmmv- — People rarely make as
much use of the "dummy" as they might do.

When the honey flow has well begun, if the
colony only covers, say, six frames, place the
empties beyond the dummy, and the colony,
feeling crowded, will commence operations
above ; whereas, if left alone, they would con-
tinue to work on the empty frames.

Waxmoth. — Before putting on the shallow
frames or sections do not forget to remove all
the brace comb, so commonly found on the
upper surface of the brood frames. These form
the sheltering place of the waxmoth, which
works almost as much destruction among bees as
does foul brood. Should any larvae be seen, de-
stroy them. If they disappear in the saw cut,
ferret them out with the small blade of the pen.
knife, and, before replacing the quilts, carefully
e.xamine them, looking for grubs and chrysalides
in their silky cocoons.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By I. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey. Notts.
Potatos. — The main crop will now be well up,
and any sets which have produced many growths
should be thinned down to not more than two or
three. It is a mistake to allow too much top
growth, as the crop under such conditions is never
so large or of such good quality, to say nothing
of the increased chances of disease in the leaf
through overcrowding. Keep the surface of the
ground well loosened, and when the Potato haulm
has reached a height of 6 inches the plants should
be "earthed up" moderately deeply so that the
young tubers may not become greened.

Turnips. — Make successional sowings from time
to time to maintain the supply, and at this season
it is not necessary to sow in large quantities
because the roots will soon lose their good
qualities during hot weather. Select a piece of
ground that is slightly shaded. An excellent
position for the purpose is one in an orchard that
is cultivated amongst the trees. Here the shade
will be likely to keep off the fly and the roots will
grow more rapidly, and though not so large they
will be juicy and of good quality. Soot and wood
ashes should be freely sown with this crop.

Ridge Cucumbers may be planted out. Encourage
growth by frequently syringing the plants in the
afternoons. Keep the haulm pegged down and
regulated as growth proceeds. It is a mistake ta
let these plants ramble at will, as they are never
so fruitful as when the sun has an opportunity of
maturing the growth as it is made.

Mulching.— On light soils the mulchings of Peas,
Runner Beans, &c., should be attended to without
delay, and before the growth suffers from lack of
moisture. Rough stable litter is the best material
for this purpose, and if neatly put on has not an
unsightly appearance. The value of these top-
dressings is very apparent by the longer fruiting
period of the crop. Peas and Beans require much
moisture both on the foliage and at the roots, and
it rains are not frequent water should be afforded
them.

Cauliflowers. — Plants beginning to shov; their
"curds" require liquid manure. At this season
the early varieties are never too large, or too early.
therefore they should be helped as far as possible.
Continue to plant out all the later varieties as fast
as they become fit, and it is well at this season to
make sure of a good strong plant that has some
vitality in it, rather than those of weak, spindly
growth, that are easily lost through hot suns or
\'ery dry weather.

French Beans. — Make another sowing of these in
the open ground. Those who have not tried the
Dwarf Sugar Bean should do so. This is one of
the very best for high quality. It is a small
variety with narrow and slightly ribbed pods, and
crops well. For the general crop, Canadian
Wonder is one of the oldest and best varieties,
and a heavy cropper. As aff^ording variety m
colour the Golden Waxpod should be given a
place, the pods have an attractive appearance after
cooking.

Beet.SmaW sowings of the Globe variety should
be made regularly, and quite apart from the main
crop, to supoly the vegetable in its most tender
form for use in the salad bowl. Pull the largest
as soon as they are fit, and bury the roots without
delay to be used as wanted. If left growing but a
few days too long the flesh becomes partly white
and hard in texture, and next to useless for the
purpose intended.

366

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JLWE 9, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

4-etters for Publication, as well as specwietis and plants
for 7iamitig, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden. London.
Communications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, scut rts earlv in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, tJie signature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correfipondents.—T/ie Editor dees not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused covimunicafinns or illustrations, u/iless by
special arrangement. The Editor does twt hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

<UustratiDns.-r;i£ Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or draivings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

■Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs tJiey wish the Editor to see.

•Local Se-ws.—Correspojidents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under tlie notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

June 9 Dutch Gard. Soc. meet.
June 12 Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.

Roy. Bot. Soc. Great Exhibition

■SATURDAY
TUESDAY,

«;r■^^^TI^cr,^v i„„„iaj in Regent's Park (3 days).
WEDNESDA\, June 13 J^ ^^^ Cornwall Show at Redruth
( (2 days).

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Y'ears at Chiswick— 60-3°,
Actual Temperatures:—

l.osDon.—Wcdne5ilay, June 6 (6 p.m.): Mas. 67"; Mm.
47°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— TAii«iia;', Jviu 7
(10 a.m.): Bar., 30.3; Temp., 69° ; WeeUlicr—
Bright sunshine.
Provinces.— Il'fidicsrfn;', June 6 (6 p.m.) : Max. 62°
North-east England ; Min. 53° Portsmouth.

SALES.

•TUESDAY—

Eighth Annual Sale of Bedding and Greenhouse Plants,
at Mile Ash Nurseries, Duffield Road, Derby, by order
of Mr. F. Lewis, by Protheroe & Morris, at 11.30.;

-WEDNESDAY—

Palms, Plants, Hardy Bulbs, Ferns, &c., at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris, at 1.

FRIDAY-

An importation of Cattleya Gigas, Imported and Estab-
lished Orchids, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, B.C., by Protheroe
& Morris, at 12.46.

We continue to watch the pro-
British grass of this movement with
Gardeners' SN'nipathetic interest, beheving
Association, that it is capable of becoming

a means of uphfting the pro-
fession, of fostering in gardeners an increased
measure of self-respect and of furthering
the interests of employers. It must be an
advantage to the members of an)- profession
to possess an association of their own, which
may be used for purposes that the majority may
deem to be best for advancing the general good.
Having similar aims, identical interests, and
difficulties in common with each other, it
must, therefore, be of necessity conducive to
general progress if gardeners are banded
together in such a manner that those interests
may be discussed in the small assemblies in
the country and reflected through deputies at
headquarters. The opinions of all can thus be
heard, and the influence, help, and advice of
the best and strongest can be afforded to those
in less fortunate circumstances.

Co-operation in such matters is not destruc-
tive of personal responsibility nor of individual
ambition, but, on the contrary, its influence
will be to develop those qualities. Member-
ship of an association implies the recognition
of the wholesome truth that man does not live
for himself alone, and that it is his duty to
assist others, as it is his privilege to receive
help from them, and that whilst he enjoys
.individual freedom he should so exercise it as

not to injure the interests of his neighbour.
The gardener who, as an isolated unit, dis-
charges his duties conscientiousl)-, and who
recognises his obligations to his profession, will
do so with increased fervour directly he feels
himself in unison with others who are actuated
with equally high principles. Even those who
before were apt to be more or less indifterent
in such matters are likely to be influenced bj-
the spirit animating those who have more
progressive sympathies. Therefore we ma}-
sa}- that the registration of gardeners in an
association is commendable. Probably most
of our readers will grant this, but may
still find room for difference in consider-
ing what objects the association should set
itself to promote. If this be the case, it will
be well for them to turn to another page
where the objects which the association has at
present in view are enumerated. If they ex-
amine these we believe that it will be found
that they are of a perfectly legitimate nature.
They are matters that closely affect every
gardener. The improvement of the general
and material welfare of its members, in the
endeavour to secure reasonable conditions of
employment is a perfectly justifiable aspiration
so long as the means employed towards this
end are conceived with due respect for
the rights of others and for the interests
of employers. We have stated again and
again in these columns that, with few excep-
tions, gardeners are not, in our opinion,
remunerated so liberally or so generally
respected as their services to their employers
and the general public entitle them to be.
The gardener's course of training is long ; his
experience has to be gained in various places
and at considerable expense. The discharge
of his duties necessitates the exercise of con-
spicuous inteUigence and unusual forethought,
but his wages are generally less than those of
a mechanic, from whom much less is expected,
whilst in some cases that are occasionally
brought to our knowledge they are less even
than those given to unskilled labourers in our
own cities. There are other matters also that
need to be given more liberal consideration at
the hands of employers, such as that of
housing accommodation, and the means of
obtaining recreation and study. In many in-
stances the head gardener has to live in a
house that is not nearly what it should be,
and, even more commonly, the bothies pro-
vided for the younger men are too small, ill-
ventilated, and lacking in details that nowa-
days are recognised as necessary to health.

We have no sympathy with the man who is
a mere time-server, and who, having one eye,
as it were, on the clock during the time he is
engaged at his work, is afraid lest he should
continue to work for a few minutes after the
recognised hour. Nevertheless, a due amount
of recreation is essential for the proper
development of every mind, and gardeners,
no less than other men, are entitled to
have some time in which they may turn
from the subjects that usually claim their
attention. No one is the better for indulging
in idleness, but all may obtain good from a
proper amount of suitable recreation. There
are cases in which the young gardener
w-ho seeks to carry out a system of study
must do so, not onU- after his day's work
is done, but after sevei :il hours unpaid overtime
are also gone through, and when he is con-
sequently in such a condition as to be unable
to study with any degree of comfort or
success. In all these matters the British
Gardeners' Association has every right to
bring its influence to bear on those employers

who, from thoughtlessness rather than from
intent, have overlooked the legitimate needs of
those under them.

In advising the rank and file to obtain a satis-
factory agreement with their employers at the
beginning of their employment, the association
will save both employer and employed much
after-trouble and probable disappointment as
our own correspondence column bears ample
testimony. Ic will, we hope, befriend the
journeyman seeking to enlarge his experience
by moving to another locality, and afford
similar aid to the foreman or head gardener
w-ho is seeking a situation, or who for some
reason wishes to make a change.

In regard to the number of hours a gardener
should work, and the amount of w-ages he
should receive, the association does not attempt
to make any hard or fast rules, as circumstances
varj' in each case. It goes no further than to
recommend what is considered to be a fair mini-
mum in such matters, but very properly leaves
each individual member to exercise his liberty
unfettered by rule. The more progressive
members need have no fear that this com-
mendable attitude will be unproductive of
.good. We believe it will in course of time
have such an influence on the emploj-er's
attitude to his gardener that wages will be
raised, and the gardener's status increased ;
moreover, it is the only policy that is prac-
ticable in the circumstances. There can be
nothing objectionable in all this, as the
fair-minded emploj^er has no more to fear from
such an association than a law-abiding citizen
has from the policeman.

But the association does not stop here. It re-
quires its members to become efficient in their
profession and increasingly efficient. It refuses
to enrol those who cannot substantiate their
claim to be considered efficient gardeners,
and thus provides a medium through which
emplo)-ers may get trustworthy men. As an
association which stands for progress it will
inspire its members to keep the interests of the
profession steadfastly before them, and not
only endeavour to increase their own efficiency
but to impart instruction on the principles
underlying common garden-practices to the
young men in their employ in order that the
next generation of gardeners shall be more
capable than they are themselves. Above all,
we believe the association will look to its
members to raise the standard of gardeners as
high as possible by exercising the qualities of
temperance, probit}^ and straight - forward
dealing with those above and below them.

The British Gardeners' Association must
represent all that is best in British gardening,
its members must be strenuous, and its govern-
ment, whilst protecting their rights on every
occasion possible, must require them to be
worthy such protection. It must insist that
a gardener, when recommended for appoint-
ment, is capable and willing to become a good
servant, and it may have to devise means
for excluding any who may bring disgrace upon
the society. In this way its future will be
successful, and its members will gain the
esteem of employers and of the public.

At the second annual meeting, which was
held last week, the council's report was en-
couraging, inasmuch as the number of members
is now more than 900, its banking account £2.^0,
and the rules and recommendations of the ex-
ecutive council, as discussed one by one, were
approved by the members present.! So long as
the society's policy is characterised by the
moderation at present exhibited, so long will it
be entitled to the respect and sympathy of every
gardener and employer. We trust that

June 9, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

those who already enjoy the favourable con-
ditions, which it could be hoped were more
general, will lend their aid to their less
fortunate colleagues, and heartily support the
only society that exists for promoting the
interests of professional gardeners, and there-
fore the only one that is capable of speaking
for them on any question that may arise.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — An

Iris garden for Kew was first suggested and
planned by Sir Michael Foster, greatest of
Iris fanciers, who himself pegged out the beds
on the lawn between the rockery and the Duke
■of Cambridge's garden-wall. The beds were
grouped in the north-east corner of the lawn,
and were backed by a belt of Rhododendrons in
the hope that these would afford sufficient shelter
to permit of the cultivation of the more tender
species along with the others. This arrangement,
however, did not answer, and the Oncocychis and
other tender sections had to be accommodated
elsewhere, leaving the field to the Apogon and
Pogoniris sections, which include the humiUs,
spuria, sibirica, pumila, squalens, germanica,
florentina, pallida, and aphylla groups. These
now occupy bold beds scattered all over the lawn,
a. corner of which is shown in the illustration, and
they present a most lovely picture when they
flower in June. They are easily satisfied in regard
to soil, moisture, &c., their worst enemy being a
rust fungus (Heterosporium gracile), which dis-
figures or kills the leaves and affects the general
health of the plant. A dressing of lime, or weekly
sprayings with Bordeaux mixture for a few weeks
after growth begins, serves to keep it in check.
Where the space can be afforded for the beds on a
lawn there is no more enjoyable feature in a
garden than Irises used in the way shown in the
illustration. They might occupy the beds in com-
pany with other plants that would agree with
them. Most of the species grow freely, and to
keep the collection within bounds the plants
require to be lifted occasionally, and the rhizomes
reduced and replanted. Whilst they are not par-
ticular as to soil, a chalky loam suits them
perfectly, and they are inveterate sun lovers. The
Kew collection has "overflowed " to the banks of
the lake in the arboretum, where there are now
broad stretches of the freest-growing sorts which
make a great show every June.

The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent In-
stitution.— We would remind our readers that
the 67th anniversary festival dinner in aid of the
funds of this institution will take place on
Wednesday, June 13, at the Hotel Metropole,
under the presidency of Lord Balfour of
Burleigh, K.T. Contributions to be placed on
the chairman's list and announced at the dinner
will be thankfully received by Harry J. Veitch,
Esq., 34, Redcliffe Gardens, South Kensington
.(treasurer) ; Messrs. Glyn, Mills, Corrie & Co.,
67, Lombard Street, E.C. (bankers) ; and the
secretary, George J. Ingram, at the offices, 175,
Victoria Street, Westminster.

German Orchid Society. — The Deutsche
Gesellschaft fiir Orchideen Kunde was inaugurated
on May 10. The president is Baron M. Von
Fuerstenberg ; the general secretary, Dr. Udo
Dammer. The subscription is 20 marks (/I), or
30 marks in the case of gardeners. The of&cial
publication, the Orchis, which we have previously
mentioned, is supplied to members gratuitously or
to non-members at 80 marks. The society already
numbers 232 members, six of whom are English.
The address of the secretary is Herrn Professor
Dr. Udo Dammer, Dahlem, Gross-Lichterfelde
III. Altensteinstr, 37.

Forestry Instruction at Armstrong
College, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. — An im-
portant advance in the development of the

forestry branch of Armstrong College has been
made by an agreement effected between H.M.
Office of Woods and the College authorities, by
which the latter take over the local management
of Chopwell Woods, in the County of Durham.
These woods are within a few miles of the Col-
lege, extend over an area of nearly 900 acres, and
carry crops of Larch, Spruce, Scotch Pine, Oak,
Ash, and other trees, most of which were
planted about fifty years ago. The woods will
be gradually brought under a proper rotation of
cropping by the clearing and replanting of the
more mature portions from time to time, and the
carrying out of this work will afford favourable
opportunities for demonstrating the various
operations relating to practical forestry. H.M.
Commissioner of Woods, J. F. F. Hornek,
Esq., has obtained the consent of the Treasury
to a house being provided in the woods as a
residence for the College Lecturer in Forestry,
Mr. A. C. Forbes, and to continue to pay as
heretofore the ordinary working expenses of the
woods. The arrangement will facilitate the
holding of short courses for practical foresters,
and others desirous of acquiring a knowledge of
the subject ; while as a practical demonstration
area for the students attending the College
forestry class, the woods will be invaluable, and
should render Newcastle one of the most favour-
able centres for forestry instruction in the
United Kingdom. Throughout the negotiations
the College authorities have been met by the
Office of Woods in a sympathetic manner, and
Mr. Horner has shown every desire that the
Chopwell Woods shall, so far as circumstances
will admit, be so managed as to render increased
facilities for instructional purposes.

Small Holdings. — The Departmental Com-
mittee held a sitting on the 17th ult. Evidence
was given by Miss L. Jebb, Whitemore, Shropshire,
Mr. Jas. Tomkinson, M.P., Willington Hall,
Cheshire, and Mr. Thos. Wright, Duddon,
Cheshire. The Committee also held a sitting on
the 24th ult. Evidence was given by Mr. D.
W. Drummond, Cawdor Estate Office, Carmar-
then ; Mr. F. Roberts, Aberystwyth, and Mr. A.
Murray, I.S.O., Local Government Board (Scot-
land).

Botanical Portraits. — From the Roj'al
Botanic Gardens, Kew, has been issued a cata-
logue of portraits of botanists so far as they are
exhibited in the museums of the Royal garden.
Short biographical notices of the botanists are
included, and the publication is so interesting that
doubtless a second edition will be called for when
the necessary revisions and additions can be made.
We find no mention made of a portrait of Walter
Fitch, whose services to Kew were so numerous,
but possibly it may be included in the series that
is not exhibited. John Sims, former editor of the
Botanical Magazine, graduatedin Edinburgh, as here
stated in 1774, although we are told he was
not born till 1792. A reference to the Biographical
Index of British and Irish Botanists, of Britten and
BouLGEE, shows that Sims was born in 1749 and
died in 1831, not in 1838 as stated in the Kew list.
The wording of the paragraph relating to John
Sims also leaves it doubtful whether it was John
Sims or his father. Dr. R. C. Sims, who was
a member of the Society of Friends, and medical
writer. Probably the remark would apply both to
the father and to his son. David Douglas finds a
place, but Berthold Seemann, Cuming, Miers,
Robert Fortune, Thwaiies, and Hartweg do
not. Here again it may be that the portraits of
these worthies are relegated to portfolios, and are
not exhibited. In the account of Lindley it is not
stated clearly whether it was the father or the son
that was educated at Norwich Grammar School,
though, of course, the presumption is that the
son is the person intended. It is strange that no
mention is made of Lindlev's Works onOrchidaceiv,

the works which, of all his very numerous publi-
cations, have the greatest permanent value. As
we have said, the present instalment is so interest-
ing that we trust it may not be long before a more
complete list may be issued.

Botanical Magazine. — The June number
contams descriptions and coloured illustrations of
the following plants : —

Magnolia ■a\voi.^vc\ {Sicboldi~ Zuccarini), tab.
8,077. — A species with large, obovate deciduous
leaves, flowers yellowish, filaments deep pink. It
was noticed in our columns by Mr. E. H. Wilson
at p. 234 of our pvesent volume. It is found wild
in Japan, but in China it is met with near houses.
It first flowered in this country at Kew in June,
1905, and in Mr. Chambers' garden at Haslemere
in the same month, though it had produced
flowers in the United States two years previously.
It is in cultivation in Messrs. Veitch's nursery at
Coombe Wood. The description is by Mr. S. A.
Skan.

Gonioscypha eucomoides (Baker), tab. 8,078. —
This Himalayan Liliaceous plant has exactly the
habit of a Eucomis. See Gardeners' Chronicle,
December 19, 1896, p. 748, fig. 129. Described by
Dr. Staff.

Gerbera aurantiaca (Schulz Bipontinus], tab.
8,079. — A very handsome Natal Composite closely
allied to G. Jamesoni, but, according to Mr. N. E.
Brown, differing in its entire leaves and its deep
red ray florets. It requires greenhouse treatment.
Kew.

Gladiolus primulinus (Baiter) in Gardeners'
Chronicle, August 2, 1890, p. 122, tab. 8,080. See also
figure in our number for September 10, 1901, p. 191.
— A native of tropical Africa, with self-coloured
primrose yellow flowers, here described by Mr.
C. H. Wright. It grows in the wettest parts near
the Victoria Falls, where it is subjected to a per-
petual deluge. The upper perianth-lobes form a
hood to protect the stamens and pistil from the
excessive rain. Kew.

Rhododendron Vaseyi (A. Gray), tab. S,081. —
A native of North and of South Carolina, totally
different from all the other American Rhododen-
drons, but having much in common with species
confined to Japan. See Gaideners' Chronicle, July
18, 1896, p. 71, fig. 14. Hardy at Kew where,
according to Mr. Skan, who furnishes the descrip-
tion, it flowers in May.

LHorticulture Florissante et Fe-
CONDE. — M. Charles Baltet has lately pub-
lished a brochure dealing with the progress of
horticulture in" France and in other countries,
with special reference to the aid afforded by the
State as distinguished from private enterprises.
In France and Belgium, as is well known, the
Governments encourage and assist scientific and
economic cultures, whereas in Great Britain and
her Colonies only a few Botanic and Agricultural
Colleges receive State support, all the societies being
self-supporting. For details, carefully collected
by M. Baltet, we must refer our readers to his
pamphlet, which is obtainable from the Librairie
Agricole, Rue Jacob, 26, Paris.

"Familiar Trees." ^ — In spite of the ad-
jective here employed we are told in the pro-
spectus that to most of us a " tree is a tree," and
that " we cannot distinguish between the Larch
and the Sycamore, nor tell a Cedar of Lebanon
from the Yew." It is scarcely likely that the
readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle are included in
the " we," or if that be the case the trees cannot
be said to be "familiar." It is not necessary,
however, to stickle over names. The fact remains
that Prof. Boulger is about to issue through
Messrs. Cassell a book on our commoner trees,
illustrated by drawings by Messrs. W. H. Boot
and A. F. Muckley. The names alone furnish a
guarantee that a very useful book for popular
consumption will be produced.

3GS

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 9, 1906.

Climatic Requirements for Orange-
Growing. — Mr. Robert Thomson, Agricultural
Instructor in Jamaica, has lately published some
interesting facts concerning the climatic con-
ditions most suitable for Orange-growing in the
island of Jamaica. He remarks that all the great
Orange-growing countries of the world are within
the confines of the temperate zones. The cultiva-
tion of the fruit on a commercial scale on hot
tropical plains, and assisted by systematic irrigation,
is a new experiment that has recently been tried
with some success in certain districts of Jamaica.
But it is feared that after a time the plantations
will succumb as previous eft'orts in this direction
have done. In the temperate climate of the moun-
tains of Jamaica, however, the Orange has been
naturalised for hundreds of years, but being
unable to withstand continuous heat it does not
long survive in the hot, dry plains. The wild
Oranges on the Manchester hills enjoy a lime-
stone soil and subterranean water. Probably the
centre of the zone of spontaneous dispersal of this
tree is at a height of about 2,000 feet. It is likely
to be proved in the near future, when Orange
cultivation assumes important dimensions on the
hills, that the upper limit will closely approach
the limit of successful coffee cultivation.

Lima Beans. — The beans or seeds of this
species, Phaseolus lunatus, are commonly grown
for food in America and in the tropics, and they
have been introduced here as cattle- food. In this
country they rarely ripen their seeds. In spite of
the fact that they are extensively used as food
both for human beings and for cattle, the seeds
are, under certain circumstances, poisonous, and
quite recently numerous cases have occurred in
Belgium, where cattle have died in numbers in
consequence of having partaken of the beans or of
the flour made from them. Research has shown
that the beans contain, or rather generate, under
certain conditions, hydrocyanic (prussic) acid.
In the cultivated varieties the proportion of acid
is smaller than in the wild or semi-wild plants.
The acid is derived from a glucoside discovered by
DuNSTAN & Henry, which under the influence
of diastase splits up into glucose, acetone and
hydrocyanic acid. The seeds are very varied in
color and markings, but all have been found to
contain the poisonous substance. In the Comptis
Rendus for March 5, p. 515, M. Guignard refers
to the literature of the subject, and points out the
differences between these Lima beans and the ordi-
nary Haricot beans. A microscopic examination
shows that the seeds of the common Haricot have
always beneath the outer skin a layer of cells,
each cell containing a crystal of oxalate of lime.
No such crystal exists in the Lima beans. Even
cooking does not remove the poisonous element.
M. Guignard indicates a ready method of detect-
ing the presence of hydrocyanic acid dependent
on the fact that when picric acid and alkalies are
added to hydrocyanic acid or any substance con-
taining it a deep red colour ensues. A piece of
blotting paper is soaked in a 1 per cent, solution
of picric acid. This is allowed to dry, and after-
wards steeped in a 10 per cent, solution of car-
bonate of soda and again dried. The paper has
now a yellow tint, and when a slip is introduced
into a test-tube containing hydrocyanic acid, the
paper is seen to become gradually, and after the
lapse of several hours, orange-red and ultimately
red. The same results occur when the paper is
suspended in a tube containing the crushed beans
or the bean-flour and thus exposed to the vapour
of the acid. As the seeds are largely used in the
United States for food we can only suppose that
the poisonous ingredients are not developed in the
unripe seeds, or that it is dissipated by heat in the
process of cooking. In any case owners of horses
and cattle should be careful how they make use of
what are variously called Lima beans, Java beans,
or Burma beans for feeding their animals.

Charlock. — Mr. Strawson of 71a, Queen Vic-
toria Street, E.G., reports that the heavy loss oc-
casioned by growing a crop of this weed among
Gorn is fully acknowledged, and is proved in
practice to be equal to eight to sixteen bushels per
acre. This loss can be avoided and a profit real-
ised by a single spraying in one year ; but by re-
peating the operation for a few years no re-seeding
of the land takes place, whilst the old seed in the
land is gradually grown out, and the increased an-
nual value of the land becomes permanent. Char-
lock, like the Turnip, is a cruciferous plant, and
such enemies of the Turnip as club-root and Tur-
nip flea-beetle are nourished and perpetuated by
the Gharlock during the intervals of the Turnip
crop, so that the destruction of this noxious weed
is all the more desirable. The operation is simple,
easy and rapid ; the difference in cost between do-
ing it badly and in the best way will not be more
than 6d. per acre ; but the difference in result will
be that in one case only 60 or 70 per cent of the
weed will be destroyed, whilst in the other the
whole of it will be killed except perhaps a few
straggling plants. The spraying should be done
when the crop is dry, and some few hours before
rain. The spray should be fine and misty, and the
simple directions carried out. The following
statements are fully confirmed by wide practice,
and may be relied upon: — 1. That young Char-
lock can be destroyed in growing Corn crops with-
out injury to the latter by spraying with 50 gallons
of 3 per cent, solution of copper sulphate (15 lbs.
to 50 gallons) per statute acre, and older Gharlock
with a stronger solution. 2. That the Corn crops
are much improved, and give a better yield, where
the Gharlock is destroyed, and that young grass
seeds and Clover in the Gorn remain iminjured.
3. That spraying early, when the weed is young
and in soft fibre, is most profitable (but it can be
quite successfully done just as the weed is coming
into flower, or when in flower). 4. That the
larger machines are more successful than the
smaller. 5. That the profit derived from increased
yield of Corn is diminished in proportion to the
delay which occurs after the Charlock is first fit to
spray. 6. That the increased yield of Corn, by
the destruction of the Gharlock, leaves a substan-
tial profit after all the expenses of spraying have
been defrayed, ana that the value of all Charlock-
infested land increases until the extermination of
the weed is complete.

The Supply of Nitrogen. — The Inter-
national Congress of Applied Chemistry had a
most successful meeting in Rome from April 26
to May 5 last. According to a recent issue of
Nature, among the papers contributed the most
important was undoubtedly Dr. Adoi.ph
Frank's description of his process for the direct
utilisation of the nitrogen of the atmosphere for
the production of artificial manure and other
chemical products. Dr. Frank's invention is
not only ingenious, but its effects on the future
of the human race will probably be of the great-
est importance. The inventor is a veteran in
agricultural chemistry; he it was who, more
than 00 years ago, introduced the potash salts of
Stassfurt to the notice of agriculturists. Now
nearly three million tons of these salts are used
annually by agriculturists all over the world.
As regards the fixation of atmospheric nitrogen,
the invention is not a complicated one. Calcium
carbide is first produced and then heated with
nitrogen obtained by the fractional distillation
of liquid air. The first raw material obtained is
calcium cyanimide, and it is this that is used as
a nitrogenous manure, numerous experiments
having shown that the nitrogen which it contains
can be easily assimilated by plants. For coun-
tries such as Italy, and more especially India,
with large agricultural populations which do not
possess sufficient cattle to supply the requisite
nitrogenous manure, this direct utilisation of the
inexhaustible nitrogen of the atmosphere cannot
fail to be of enormous importance.

Protection from Mosquitos.— A personal
narrative in the Barbados Agiicultural News details
a crusade against mosquitos that has so far proved
successful. All stagnant rain-water, ponds and
other supplies were emptied every night or kept
closely covered according to circumstances, and,
where necessary, fresh water was substituted in.
the morning. A well, which could not be
emptied, was treated with half-a-pint of kerosene
thrown down it once a month, and this destroyed
all insect life there. Water for domestic use was.
kept in covered reservoirs, and diluted citronella
oil and muslin blinds kept any stray pests from
entering the house. The writer soon found no-
mosquitos where they had formerly been some-
what abundant, while fever was also successfully
kept at bay.

The Engkala Fruit.— Mr. H. N. RidleYh
in the Agriculliiral Bulletin of the Straits Settle-
ments, gives an account of the Engkala fruity
which is, he says, well known by Dyaks and
Europeans in Sarawak, but is, apparently, un-
familiar elsev/here. The fruit is that of a new
species of Litsea (Laurace.-:E), d3scribed by Mr.
Ridley as Litsea persella, a tre-e of large size,
40 to 60 feet high, with a stout stem. The fruit
is borne in a green cup, IJ inches across and
shallow, with a thickened obconic base an inch
long. Fruit globose, with slightly flattened top, .
li inches through, smooth, shining red, pulp-
thick, fleshy, green. Seed rounded-flattened,
nearly an inch through, shining pale brown.
The flavour is said to be delicious, and the
fruit is to be eaten raw or used in curries. The
tree may be planted for beauty as well as for
utility, as it has handsome foliage, and bears
an abundance of yellow blossoms in its season.

Periodicity in the Yield of Wheat. — At
a meeting of the Royal Society, held recently, a
paper was read by Dr. W. N. Shaw, Director of
the Meteorological Office, entitled " An Apparent
Periodicity in the Yield of Wheat for Eastern
England, 1S85-1905." The conclusions as to the
relation between the weather and the growth and
yield of the cereal crops in this country pointed
conclusivelv to the existence of an intimate relation
between the rainfall of the autumn months and the
wheat-harvest of the following year. From the
evidence before him Dr. Shaw had been enabled
to predict the amount of the Vviheat crop in a
particular year in the Eastern Counties with almost
absolute accuracy. Dealing with the statistics for
the 21 years 1SH5 to 1905, in the middle of the
period there was one year, 1895, with a deficient
yield, followed by another year, 1896, with an
abundant harvest, a mean of the two corresponding
very closely with the average forthewhole 21 years.
Regarding this central two-year period as the stand-
point, he found that, taking all pairs of years distant
by two from the standpoint, a deficiency in the one
year was compensated lor by an excess in the other.
Thus, in 1893, distant by two from 1895, there was
a deficiency, while in 1898, distant by two from
189G, there was an excess, a similar compensatory
result being shown by the years 1891 and 1900, and,
in fact, throughout the entire series of years. A
result even more remarkable is shown in an
apparent periodicity of 11 years in the yield of
wheat, not always as regards actual bulk, but
cei'tainly in relation to the average. ThusI in 1885
and 11 years later, in 1896, the yield was above the
average ; in 1886 and 1897 it was deficient ; in 1887
and 1898, and again in 1888 and 1899, it was
abundant, and so on, without a single exception
throughout the whole 21 years dealt with in the
discussion. Unless the 11-year rule breaks down,
the yield of wheat this year in the eastern counties
should be below the average. It is much to be
wished that some competent statistician would
deal in a similar way with our Fruit Crop reports
from every county in the United Kingdom for
nearly 40 years.

June 9, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

o69

Dublin Seed and Nursery Employees'
Association. — The following directions relating
to the competitions organised by this society have
been issued ; the prizes are offered by Messrs. H .
Drummond, D. McLeod, R. T. Robertson, A. J.
Sinclair, Alexander Dickson & Sons, and J.
Egan, Esq., the president. The hon. secretary,
to whom all enquiries should be addressed, is
J. J. McDoNOUGH, 23, Upper Sackville Street,
Dublin : — Competition No. 1. For the best essay
on Grasses and Clovers suitable for meadow and
pasture-lands in Ireland, their different origins,
agricultural values, periods of duration, and the
•classes of soils to which they are specially
adapted. Essay to be limited to 5,000 words
(about 12 pages of foolscap), pages taken for
diagrams, etc., to be e.xtra; to be written on one
side of paper only. When information is taken
from a book, the authority to be mentioned.
Illustrations, specimens, cSrc, only to count when
they really illustrate some point of importance in
the essay. Professor Wilson, Royal College
of Science, and D. Houston, Esq., have kindly
consented to adjudicate on the same. All papers
must be sent in to the hon. secretary by October 1.
— Competition No. 2. The Narcissus, an essay.
Essay not to contain more than 2,000 words ; to be
written on one side of paper only ; and the compe-
tition to be open to senior and junior members
alike. James Roeertson, Esq., J. P., has kindly
consented to adjudicate, and his award shall be
final . The competition will close on October 1 , 190C,
and the papers must be in the hands of the hon.
secretary by that date. — Competition No. 3.
Prizes are offered for the best collection of
mounted specimens (with examples of their seeds)
of the genera Medicago, Melilotus, Trifolium,
Lotus, and AnthylUs, indigenous to, or naturalised
in, Ireland. Both plants and seeds must be col-
lected in Ireland during 1300. Plants must be
mounted on paper 17 i X llj-in., together with
-samples of the seeds. The botanical and common
name, locality, habitat, and date must be written
on each sheet. R. Lloyd Praeger, Esq., and
Miss Knowles have again kindly consented to
adjudicate, and their decision will be accepted as
final. Marks will be given on the following basis ;
Correctness of nomenclature, 20 marks ; drying and
mounting, 20 marks; excellence of specimens, 20
marks. One mark will be added for each variety
of plant and for each specimen of seed sent in.
All collections to be sent in to the hon. secretary,
on or before October 1 next. Botanical mount-
ing paper will be supplied on application. —
Competition No. 4. These prizes are offered in
connection with the Botany Class, 190G, under
D. Houston, Esq,, details of which will be
announced later on. — Excursions. The following
outings have been arranged for : June 9 (Saturday),
Rhododendrons, Howth Castle, by kind per-
mission of Lord Howth; July 14 (Saturday),
Brennanstown Gardens, Cabihteely, by kind
permission of Mrs. Pim ; August 11 (Saturday),
Luttrellstown, Clonsilla Gardens and Grounds, by
kind permission of The Hon. Mrs. Barton.

The Fruit Prospect in Germany. — The
German Pomological Society has lately issued a
report of the prospects of this season's fruit crop
collected from no fewer than 760 districts of Ger-
many. The result is that the show of blossom is
stated to be better than it has been for many years.
An excellent crop is anticipated, provided that the
night frosts, which have been exceptionally severe
in South and Central Germany, have not done so
much damage as it is feared they may have done.
The society does much to regulate the market-
price of fruit, and is prepared to introduce pur-
chasers to those growers who have the greatest
quantity of fruit ready at the beginning of the
harvest. All communications are to be addressed :

president, German Pomological Society, .\hvin
Lorgus, 23, Klosterweg, Eisenach.

Photographs of Flowers. — An exhibition
of photographs of flowers and of domestic pets
by Mr. Henry Stevens, the well-known auc-
tioneer of Covent Garden, was opened at the
offices of the British Journal of Photography, 24,
Wellington Street, Strand, W.C., on Thursday,
June 7, and will remain open until July 21.
Admission free on presentation of card.

Dr. William Fream.— The death of this well-
known agricultural teacher is announced. He
was appointed early in life to a professorship in
the Agricultural College at Cirencester, and after-
wards lectured at Guy's Hospital and at the
Agricultural College at Downton. Of late years
he has acted as agricultural correspondent for the
Times. His Elements of Agriculture is a most useful
book, and his digest on the Rothamsted experiments,
published in 1888, is most serviceable to those
unable to make use of the very voluminous publi-
cations of La WES and Gilbert.

The Function of Silica in the Nutrition

of Cereals.— Messrs. A. D. Hall and C. D.
T. MoRisoN contribute a paper on this subject to
the current issue of the Proceedings of the Royal
Society. The investigations of the authors lead
them to the conclusions that (1) silica, though
not an essential constituent of plant food, does
play a part in the nutrition of cereal plants, like
Barley, which contain normally a considerable
proportion of silica in their ash ; (2) the effect of
a free supply of soluble silica manifests itself in
an increased and earlier formation of grain, and
is thus similar to the effect of phosphoric acid ;
(3) the silica acts by causing an increased as-
similation of phosphoric acid by the plant, to
which phosphoric acid the observed effects are
due. There is no evidence that the silica within
the plant causes a more thorough utilisation of
the phosphoric acid that has already been as-
similated, or itself promotes the migration of
food materials from the straw to the grain. (4)
The seat of the action is within the plant, and
not in the snil.

London and South-western Railway
Guide. — We have received a copy of the Illus-
trated Guide published by the London and South-
western Railway Co., and dealing with the many
charming resorts accessible by their line. Promin-
ence is, of course, given to inland and to seaside
holiday haunts, and there are pretty little pictures
of the most charming of these. Maps further
elucidate the way about the districts under discus-
sion, coach and steamer routes are indicated, and
the intending traveller is shown how to visit the
Channel Islands and the French Coast. Mr,
Perkins edits this book, which is an eighth edition
brought up to date. As the pages include lists of
hotels, boarding houses, apartments, and business
houses, they should prove of great use to visitors
to any part of the large and varied districts under
discussion.

Show at Regents Park. — The Royal
Botanic Society will hold its great summer show
on June 13, 14, and 15, in the society's gardens,
at Regent's Park. The exhibition will be opened
on the 13th inst. by H.R.H. Princess Alexander
OF Teck.

Edouard Van der Cruyssen. — The death
of this famous raiser of Azaleas is announced.
He was born in Ghent in 1819, and died on May
7 last. His most famous production, perhaps, was
the Azalea known as Mme. Van der Cruyssen, but
the number of his seedlings was very great, and
their quality in proportion. Three years ago the
Chambre Syndicale awarded him a special medal
in recognition of the services he had rendered to
horticulture, and his funeral was made the occasion
of a striking tribute to his memory, as mentioned
in the current number of the Rtvv.e dc I'Horticv.itnic
Bcke.

Neill Prize.— This prize, which is provided
by the proceeds of a bequest by the late Dr.
Patrick Neill, one of the first secretaries of
the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society, was
on Wednesday, 6th inst., unanimously awarded
by the council of that 'society to James Whytock,
gardener to the Duke of Buccleuch, at Dalkeith
Palace. The value of the prize is about £30, of
which £10 has to be speiit on plate or books to
bear a suitable inscription.

Flowers in Season. — From Lord Kesteven
come flowers of Cornus florida, a tree which Prot.
Sargent describes as " one of the most beautiful
of the small trees of the American forest, which it
enlivens in early spring with the whiteness of its
floral leaves, and in autumn with the splendour of
its foliage and the brilliancy of its fruit." It is a
very old inhabitant of our gardens, though rarely
met with. Cornus Nuttalli is very similar, but has
rose-coloured bracts. It is a native of the Pacific
States of the North American Continent, along the
coast range from the Eraser River to the San
Bernandino Mountains. The flower clusters of
this species are more beautiful and conspicuous
than the flowers of any other tree of the Pacific
States, and in early spring, when the great flower
scales have grown to their full size, it lights up the
dark and sombre forests which are the home of the
Dogwood as with a bridal wreath, and as with
tongues of flame late in the year, when the beauty
of the brilliantly coloured leaves and large heads
of bright fruit is often heightened by the appear-
ance of autumnal flowers. Sargent, Silva, v.,
tab. 214. C. Nuttalli was one of Douglas' dis-
coveries. The leaves of the two species are very
similar, both being shortly stalked, oblong, and
tapering at each end.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ly his correspondents.)

The Pine Beetle. — The note in the report
of the Royal Horticultural Society's Scientific
Committee on p. 333 is misleading as to the treat-
ment to be applied in case of attacks. I never
heard of the beetle laying eggs in trees under,
say, 30 years old. You could not possibly pull up
such trees; in fact, the remarks are self-contradic-
tory, as a tree does not usually show want of
vitality when it is young enough to be pulled up.
If young plants show want of vitality, it is that
they are attacked by fungus or by some insect
other than the Pine beetle. Vide p. 237, et. seq.,
Manual oj Forestry, Vol. IV., for an account of
this insect. W. R. Fisher, Oxford.

The statement about the Pine beetle men-
tioned in the report of the Scientific Committee of
the Royal Horticultural Society on p. 333 as not
attacking healthy trees when there are dead and
dying trees near is not borne out here ; that is if
it is the same beetle. There are thousands of
dead tips on healthy Scotch Fir, Corsican and
Austrian Pine, and a few Pinus Cembra, and vary-
ing in age from a few years to 50 or 60 years.
There are many sickly trees nearly dead, and
many of the worst have been burnt that were
riddled with millions of holes. These holes were,
no doubt, the strongholds from which the mature
beetles attacked the healthy trees. My acquaim-
ance with them here dates from last September,
and from that month to December the ground
was strewn with the tips of Pine-shoots that had
been eaten nearly through and then blown off by
the wind. I have strong reason to believe that the
beetle was brought here by an infested tree or
two that was brought from a distance, and the
trees being half-a-century old their sickly con-
dition favoured the beetles, which multiplied
rapidly, and consequently the mature beetles
damaged the healthy trees. There is hardly ;:
tree without a few or many dead tips, and I notice
dead tips half-a-mile away in very vigorous trees,
so it is evidently spreading, and, possibly, unless as
recommended by Mr. Saunders, all sickly trees in
the localitv are burnt, all healthy ones will suffer.

370

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 9, 1906.

I think it may be, as with the Elm beetle, which
does not survive to any extent after the sickly
trees have served the beetles' purpose, the Pine
beetle fails to establish itself on healthy trees,
and as I do not find the Pine beetle in the grub
stage on the bark of healthy trees, both must die
out, or nearly so, if there are no sickly trees in the
neighbourhood. G. Abbey, Jitiir., Faiihams Hall
Gardens, Ware.

Gladiolus "tristis." — I send a few blooms of
Gladiolus tristis. Though the plant grows as
much as 3 feet high, the slender stems are so wiry,
that though they may often be seen leaning at an
angle of 45° they seldom break. This lovely
plant is so easy of culture as to make one wonder
why it is not more often grown. The corms
annually produce a large number of offsets ; these
are about the size of No. 4 shot, and average as
many as 15 to a corm. Still, the corms are
dear. Arthur Grove, Henley-on-Thames. June 5.
[A nice bunch of these graceful Gladioli accom-
panied this note. Ed.]

Exhibiting Vegetables. — On p. 33-3 of your
valuable paper Mr. Pritchard gives some " obser-
vations on exhibiting vegetables, ' ' and recommends
6, 9, and 12 varieties as being most likely to carry
points. In none of these does he mention Parsley,
and so far as I have seen the " Elstree " collections
exhibited, this is always used as a foundation, the
other varieties being arranged on the top. If 12
varieties are thus shown — laid on Parsley — does
not the presence of the latter make 13 ? I am
quite aware that the Royal Horticultural Society
allows Parsley to be used for garnishing vegetables,
and rule that it does not in itself carry points ; but
how does this afiect provincial shows? Take a
Scottish show — in a collection of 12 varieties, for
instance, the exhibitor north of the Border would
most likely include a pot or two of Parsley. If
it were used as abase, some judges — whose behavi-
our can never be anticipated — might disqualify it !
It is well that the question should be raised, as it is
certain to come under the notice of many who are
interested in show work, both as exhibitors and
judges. /. A. Simpson, cjo DohbieS- Co., Rothesay.

Yellow Darwin Tulips. — Surely if what I
see by the papers that the two Tulips, Inglescombe
Yellow and Walter T. Ware are Darwin Tulips,
Bouton d'Or may be also classed under the same
heading. My dear friend, the late F. W. Bur-
bidge, wrote me years since saying that the fine
old Bouton d'Or was a true Darwin, and I think
he was correct. I should like to see flowers of
Inglescombe Yellow and Walter T. Ware. The
only yellow in the Darwin class that I know of,
up to the present, is " Yellow Perfection." It is
not a self but a broken flower. — IV. B. Hartland,
A yd Cairn, Cork.

The Borghese Gardens, Rome. — I was
interested in reading the article in your issue of
May 26th on the Borghese Gardens, Rome,
having just visited them, as well as many others of
the interesting old gardens of Italy. The original
character of the garden in question has undoubtedly
been very largely destroyed to make way for
imaginary requirements of a modern public garden,
and there is really but little of the ancient garden
left. With regard however to the erection of the
new International Agricultural Institute, I do not
think^that the municipality contemplates further
destruction of the old gardens, as there is abundant
space in the unoccupied portions outside, without
encroaching further on the gardens proper, and I
noticed work now going on in these portions of the
gardens which appeared to be in preparation for
the institute in question. I quite agree with your
correspondent that it would be a great national
and world-wide loss to lose more of these fine old
gardens. Joseph Cheat, The Nurseries, Crawley,
June 2nd, 1906.

Flowering Shrubs in the Open-air
IN Devonshire and Hertfordshire. — The
differences in climate in these two counties of
southern England were markedly brought out at
a recent meeting of the R.H.S. in collections of
flowering trees and shrubs exhibited by Messrs.
R. Veitch and Son, of Exeter, and by Lord
Aldenham's gardener, Mr. Beckett, from Alden-
ham House gardens, Elstree, respectively. Every
species could have been grown successfully in
Devon, whilst scarcely any which came from
Exeter would have flowered, and some would not
have even existed in the Hertfordshire garden it
unprotected during an ordinary winter. How
wide, then, the reading, and how varied the ex-
perience of the gardener who would excel in the
cultivation of exotic plants of the open air, even

in this small island of ours ! Of the Exeter plants
I may name Abutilon vitifoliura, of which a good
bunch of flowering shoots was shown, taken
from a specimen that measures 30 feet in height.
The flowers are of very light lilac tint, and
about Ij inches in diameter, flatfish saucer-
shaped, unlike, therefore, any of the species
grown in the greenhouse, viz., A. striatum, A.
venosum, A. Darwini, &c. 'The flowers were
abundant en the shoots, making the bush a
highly ornamental object as a solitary example
on the lawn or in the shrubbery. Edwardsia
tetraptera McNabiana and E. t. grandiflora, with
bright yellow flowers of a slightly different tint
were observed in this collection. I believe that
these showy plants are sufliciently hardy to
flower and grow to a large size in most of the
maritime counties of England and south-western
Scotland when afforded the protection of a
S., W., or E. wall, even in the coldest winter,
under a covering of straw mats, and some bracken
or straw placed round the root stock. The shoots
shown were furnished with a considerable
amount of foliage, usually absent at the season
of flowering in the colder districts. Some shoots
of the splendid scarlet Embothrium coccineum,
well furnished with flowers and foliage, attracted
the notice of visitors immediately, so vivid was
the colour. This Chilian Protead is still un-
common in gardens, and can only be grown with
any degree of success in the counties of Corn-
wall, Devon, Dorset, Isle of Wight, and Hamp-
shire, and does best when afforded wall protec-
tion. I have had it in good flower on a northern
aspect in Dorset, in a garden about half a mile
from the sea. It seeds freely in some places,
and the seeds germinate readily, but ordinarily
the plant is increased by root cuttings, or b)'
grafting on pieces of its own roots in mild heat.
Of species of Rhododendron there were noted
flowering shoots of Thomsoni and R. Roylei,
of two different shades of crimson, the former
having flowers twice as large as those of the
latter ; R. campylocarpum, with campanulate
flowers, li inches wide and deep, and of a pale
primrose tint ; R. "Coombe Royal," an artificial
hybrid, is a showy, pale pink, changing to white
as it ages, with the lower segment spotted with
ciimson. Among other things contained in the
collection were f'ytisus purpureus incarnatus,
Avith light purple flowers, freely produced on
shoots of 12 to 15 inches in length, a distinct-
looking ornamental shrub, e.xcellent grown as a
bush or standard ; and shoots of Citrus trifoliata,
sparingly in flower and leafless. Lord Alden-
ham's exhibits were far more numerous, and I
may only make note of the rare species and
varieties, viz., Cydonia japonica sinica, having
comparatively large flowers of a shade of scar-
let ; C. Maulei, like the type, a native of Japan ;
C. J. Mallardi ; Pyrus floribunda atrosanguinea,
with small, crimson-coloured flowers, which, on
small trees in the London district, have been
particularly abundant this year ; P. Mains
"John Downie," a very free, single, white-
flowered variety ; Lonicera virginalis, a variety
of very free-flowering habit, and white ; Prunus
pseudo-cerasus J. H. Veitch, having semi-double,
light pink-coloured blossoms ; Exochorda grandi-
flora, very freely flowered ; Amelanchier alni-
folia, also very free ; Ercilla spicata, having
semi-erect, short, axillary spikes of flowers ;
Acer circinatum, possessing small, crimson
flowers in pendulous racemes ; and, lastly, Vi-
burnum macrocephalum, having conspicuous
corymbs of white flowers, measuring 4 to 6
inches across — a fine solitary bush for lawn de-
coration. From this list of plants the reader
v/ill perceive how abundant is the choice of de-
ciduous shrubs and trees even in the compara-
tively cold county of Herts, and how delightful
a garden may be made in the spring and early
summer months with an intelligent selection of
species. 7^. M.

The Winter-flowering Carnation So-
ciety.— It is a matter for disappointment to those
Fellows of the Royal Horticultural Society who
helped to build the Vincent Square Hal! and offices,
that more eflbrt is not made by the council to render
that hall the home and place of exhibition of all
special horticultural bodies having their shows in
London. The ULwly-formed Winter Carnation
Society has, because the offers made by a com-
paratively poor society (the Royal Botanic) were
more liberal , felt cc impelled to take its first annual ex-
hibition|to theResmt'sPark next December, greatly
to the loss of the Royal Horticultural Society's Fel-
lows. Why the council cannot act as generously to

all these respective societies as it does to the Au-
ricula Society seems dif&cult to understand. The
winter Carnation growers do much more to
help the Royal Horticultural Society to make its
ordinary shows than the Auricula Society does.
Surely so wealthy a body as the R.H.S. might
strain a point and use every efi'ort to keep in
close and parental touch with all these special
societies. D.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

Colonial Exhibition.
June 6, 7. — The Royal Horticultural Society's-
list of arrangements for 1906 provide for three
exhibitions of Colonial produce, that held on
the above dates being the second. The dates for
these exhibitions are fixed to correspond with
the time when the produce from the respective
Colonies are found in the greatest perfection in
London. The principal displays were large ex-
hibits of Apples and Pears from Australasia,
and Oranges from South Africa. One of the
best exhibits was a collection of Apples and
Pears displayed by the Agent-General for
South Australia. The fruit generally was of
splendid quality, and had reached this country
in excellent condition. The high colouring of
the Apples was a remarkable feature, due, na
doubt, to the great amount of sunshine and dry
heat that obtains in these Colonies. A very
handsome variety is Raspberry Pippin. We'
may liken it to a large fruit of Fearn's Pippin
grown in an orchard house. The flesh is juicy
and solid, and the flavour is pleasant. Esopus.
Spitzenberg is another handsome Apple, more
conical than the last-named. Cleopatra is a.
pretty fruit, smooth, of greenish-yellow colour,,
somewhat like a large Yellow Ingestre. Other
good varieties, from appearances only, are Rome
Beauty, Hoover (with very dark red colouring).
Maiden's Blush, and King of Tompkins' County.
Among the Pears, Uvedale St. Germains, Win-
ter Nelis, and Glout Morceau were easily recog-
nised. Quinces, Pomegranates, Grapes, and
bottled and dried fruits completed the exhibit.

The Agent-General for Victoria showed am
extensive array of Apples and Pears, as un-
packed from the market boxes, tinned and
bottled produce, preserves, and wines. The
Apples call for especial mention, so fine was
their appearance, and we should imagine there
would be a good and ready market for fruit of
such quality. The dark-skinned Jonathan,,
Rome Beauty, Munroe's Favourite, French
Crab, and Esopus Spitzenberg are among the
finer varieties shown.

The display made by the New Zealand
Government was a very large and fine one.
It consisted principally of Apples, but it also
included bottled and canned fruits, jams,
sauces, &c. Cox's Orange Pippin was wonder-
fully largo and intensely, coloured ; Wel-
lington, Ohinemuri (syn. Munroe's Favourites
and many well-known varieties, such as Blue
Pearmain, Brownlee's Russet, London or Five-
Crowned Pippin, Cornish Gilliflower, and
Northern Spy, were in true character as seen
in this country.

The Agent-General for New South Wales.
displayed wines. Apples, dried and candied
fruits, jams, Prunes, &c.

Western Australia made an exhibit of grain,
wool, honey, wood, hops, &c.

Dr. Benjafield, Hobart, Tasmania, showed
ir.any varieties of Apples and Pears grown
on standard trees without irrigation.

A large consignment of Oranges, Citrons, and
Pomeloes were received from the Transvaal. A
new Orange named Transvaal Seedling was of
much merit, the skin being thin, and the pulp
heavy with juice.

One of the most interesting exhibits from South
Africa was a display of Sultanas, Raisins, Cur-
rants, Walnuts, and Almonds. The Sultanas
and Raisins shown by Mr. J. P. Haaiman, Wor-
cester, C4pe Colony, were of special quality,
and equal to any seen from the European
countries. The Nuts were sun-dried, and were
crisp and of agreeable flavour.

The West Indian Produce Association, 4,
Fenrhurch Buildings, London, E.C., showed
West Indian fruits and preserves. Limes, sugar,
cigars, Tobacco, &c.

]L-NE 9, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

371

The Royal Mail Steam Packet Co. dis-
played Yams, Pomeloes, Bananas, Soursops,
Papaws, (S:c.

Lady Plowden, Aston Rowant, Wallingford,
Oxon (gr. Mr. W. H. Clarke), showed a collec-
tion of hothouse fruits : Nectarines, Melons,
Strawberries, Lemons, and Tomatos.

Messrs. Dobbie & Co. Rothesay, N.B.,
showed some good flowers of Aquilegias and
Pansies.

Mr. II. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Ed-
monton, had a collection of greenhouse flowers
and Kerns.

Messrs. T. Ware, Ltd., Feltham, Middlesex,
had a stand of tuberous-rooting Begonias, and
vases of Streptocarpus flowers.

Cucumbers at Wisley.
June 5. — Six members of the Fruit and Vegetable
Committee, and Mr. C.Bunyardaschairman, visited
the Wisley Gardens on the above date to inspect
a trial of Cucumbers in one of the low houses.
There were 40 plants, and each had a different
name, although in several cases no distinction
was apparent. The plants were put out on April
12 on mounds of loam 4 feet apart on each side of
the house. In almost every case the fruits were
at their best a few days earlier, but owing to the
Temple Show could not then be seen by the com-
mittee. Whilst many oi them were fruiting well, the
following were specially selected for higli com-
mendation or three marks, having previously
received awards : Matchless, Every Day, Ideal,
Purley Park Hero, Sutton's Al, and Market
Favourite. Others almost but not quite so good,
were Marvel, Whitelaw's Early, XL-.\11, and
Satisfaction; these had two marks each. Blair's
Prolific, a variety having short fruits, was thought
to be Lockie's Perfection.

BRITISH GARDENERS' ASSOCIATION.

May 30. — The second annual meeting was
held on the above date in the Essex Hall, Essex
Street, Strand, London. At the opening of the
proceedings there was a goodly company, which
was afterwards augmented to over one hundred,
including representatives from most of the pro-
vincial branches. The Chair was taken by Mr.
W. H. Divers, gardener to the Duke of Rut-
land, Belvoir Castle. The Secretary read the
report as follows :^ — •

Report of the Executive Council for the Year
f 905°lQo6,

During the past ye-ir the British Gardeners' Associa-
tion has made steady progress in every direction, and
now consists of over 900 trained and qualified Gar-
deners. It is confidently anticipated that this number
will be considerably increased during the ensuing year.
Rules. — The Rules of the Association are now in the
hands of every member. Their preparation lias oc-
cupied considerable attention on the part of the JC.xecu-
tive, and every effort has been made to embody in them
the general feeling of gardeners in the kingdom.

Certificates. — A Certificate has been issued to each
member on payment of the Annual Subscription, and the
Executive Council hopes that this Certificate will be re-
garded as the only badge in the kingdom to distinguish
the qualified gardener from untrained or inexperienced
men.

The question of issuing a Special Certificate, suitable
for framing, has received careful consideration, and
the Executive are of opinion that such a document
should be issued to each Member of the Association at
a nominal charge.

Life Mem'berships. — It has been suggested that Life
Memberships should be created, the basis being a com-
position equivalent to 21 years' annual subscription.
Having considered the matter carefully, the Executive
cannot at present advise the adoption of the suggestion.
Pkovkncial Meetings. — The Executive Council think
that, in the interests of the Association, it would be
advisable to hold meetings in the provinces from time to
time.

Apprentices. — Pressure having been brought to bear
on the Executive to admit apprentices and journeymen
gardeners under the age of 20 years at a reduced fee,
they recommend that in future qualified gardeners
under 20 years of age be admitted to the Association
upon payment of 2s. Registration fee, and an Annual
Subscription of is., such .'\nnual Subscription to be
raised to 2s. 6d. after the 20th birthday.

Exchange or Transfer. — In connection with the sub-
ject of Apprentices and Journeymen, the Executive
Council express the hope that Heiic: Gardeners may be
able to adopt the system of exchange, so that young men
may have the opportunity of being transferred from
one garden to another without loss of time or money,
and thus increase their professional experience.

Situations. — The Executive Council are pleased to
say the Association has been instrumental in filling
several situations during the past year, and they hope
this branch of the Association's business wi.ll develop
considerably when employers begin to apprecialc the
advantages of engaging trained and certificated gar-
deners.

The Executive Council, on the other hand, regret to
say that several situations were not filled, simply be-
cause the wages offered and the terms of service were
so far from being in accordance with those recom-

mended by the Association, that they did not feel
justified in asking any member to accept a situation
' that would place him far below the -tatus of the most
ineompetent labourer.

AppLicArioNS Declined. — During the past year the
Executive Council have been compelled to decline ap-
plications for joining the Association from men who
were unable to produce satisfactory credentials as to
their gardening qualifications. Great care is exercised
in regard to the admission of members, as the Execu-
tive Council are confident that the success of the Asso-
ciation depends upon the professional ability and good
character of each of its members.

The Branches. — The Executive Council wish to ex-
press their thanks to the various branches for the good
work done during the year. They would also like to im-
press upon the members the necessity of forming
branches in as many centres as possible throughout the
kingdom.

Nominations por Executive Council. — The following
members are nominated for the Executive Council,

Mr. Thomas Bevan, Supt., St. Marylebone Cemetery,

East Finchley, N. . „, ^

Mr. T. H. Candler, Foreman, 'Warley Place, Great

Warley, Essex.
Mr. G. L. Castelton, Supt., Crystal Palace, S.E.
Mr. J. O. Clarke, Head Gardener, The Poplars, 20,

Avenue Road, Regent's Park, N.W. .

Mr. C. H. Curtis (Sub-Editor Gardeners' Magazine),

2, Adelaide Road, Erertford.
Mr. K. Drost, Nurseryman, Richmond, Surrey.
Mr. W. Dallimore, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Kew.
Mr. W. H. Divers, Head Gardener, Belvoir Castle,

Grantham. ,, . . „ ,,

Mr. Chas. Foster, Hort. Instructor, University College,

Reading. , t^ , ti

Mr. Jas. Fulton, Head Gardener, ijrim s Dyke, Harrow

Weald. Middlesex. .

Mr. R. J. Frogbrooke, Supt. of Parks, 75, Murchison

Road. Leyton, E. ^ . ^ j

Mr. E. F. Hawes. Supt. Royal Botanic Gardens,

Regent's Park, N.W. „ . , , _ ,

Mr. James Lawson, Head Gardener, Horticultural Col-
lege, Swanlev. „ . ,., ,
Mr. Thomas Lewis, Fair Oak House, Roath Park,

Mr w!^ McKechine, Head Gardener, The Gardens, The
Mole House, Hersham, Walton-on-Thames.

Mr. R. Hooper Pearson (Sub-Editor Gardeners
Chronicle), 40, Brocklebank Road, Wandsworth,

Mr G H. Taverner, Head Gardener, Harrow Weald

House, Harrow Weald. Middlesex. ,, .„ , , ,

Mr. J. G. Weston, Head Gardener, Eastwell Park, Ash-
ford. Kent.
Mr. Thos. Winter, Supt. of Parks, Marylebone.
Mr. F. T. Woodfield, Head Gardener, The Grange Oar-
dens. North Finchley, N. ,,.,,, r _.„
Mr J Weathers (Hort. Instructor Middlesex County
'Council), Talbot Villa, Isleworth. W.
Financial Statement.— The following is an account
of the Receipts and Expenses of the Association during
the past year, with Balance Sheet. It may be men-
tioned thit the cost for printing the Rules, postage
and advertising have been rather heavy, but much of
the expense really belongs to the current year, and need
not be again incurred.

Receipts.

£ s a

Annual .Subscrip-
tions and Regis-
tration Fees ... 123 5 6

Donations 0 15 0

£1U 0 6

Expenses.

f s

.\dvertising

IG 16

K

Hire of Hall

.5 5

U

Branch Expenses -.

5 19

U

Rent of R.H.S.

Room

5 0

U

Legal Expenses ...

3 6

Printing Rules,

Stationery. &c.-.

31 0

b

Postage of Rules,

Typewriting,

Rent, Address-

ing, &c

32 19

lU

100 7

0

Balance

23 IS

0

£121 0

6

Balance Sheet.

Liabilities.

Printing

8 10 0

Balance

273 14 0

£^2 A 0

Assets.

Cash at Bank ... 61
„ on Deposit... 153

Subscriptions un-
paid

Donations pro-

20 0 0

mised—
Mr. F. Sander
Mr. R. Syden-
ham...
Mr. H. J. Cut-
bush
Mr. R. P. Ker
Miss Foster ...

20 0 0

10 0 0

10 10 0

10 0

10 0 0

£282 4 0

By order of the Executive Council,

The Chairman, in. his opening remarks, said
that, like all other new societies, the British
Gardeners' Association had met with much criti-
cism, but it was impossible to please everyone,
although much had been done to meet legitimate
objections, and there was nothing in the Asso-
ciation's proposals to the prejudice of either
employers or employees. The Association wished

not only to improve the status of gardeners, but
to be able to offer good gardeners to employers.
All reforms work slowly, but they had every rea-
son to congratulate themselves on the success
which had attended the movement. The mem-
bership had increased 50 per cent, during the
past year. He referred to the National Union
of School Teachers — a flourishing combination ;
and said that, although that Society was able to
proceed but very slowly for some time after its
establishment, it now embraced two-thirds of
the teachers in this country. He had much
pleasure in moving the adoption of the report.
Mr. Donoghue (Leeds) fully endorsed the re-
marks of the Chairman, and predicted
a good future for the Association. He
was pleased to know from the report that meet-
ings would be held in the provinces. Dr. M. T.
Masters, F.R.S., rose to congratulate the mem-
bers, first on their choice of Chairman in Mr.
Divers, and secondly on the success of the move-
ment. That it was spreading was readily ap-
parent, and Its steady progress was in its favour.
Tho gardener knows that a Cabbage develops
better for growing slowly, and undue haste only
causes it to "bolt." He therefore advised the
members to go on in their legitimate endeavour
to obtain individual freedom, which could be
* done without injury to others, and to co-
operate in their endeavour to obtain remunera-
tion and conditions of labour commensurate
with their responsibilities and worth. He
wished the movement every success.

The report was carried unanimously. The
next business was the consideration of the
rules, which we print below as amended at the
meeting.

Rules as Adopted at General Meeting.

chaptp;r I.

General and Constitutionat,.

I. — The Association formed under these Rules, herein-
after called the " Absociation." shall be known as
" The British Gardeners' Association."

2. — The Association shall consist of (i) an unlimited
number of subscribing members who shall have qualified
as professional gardeners in private, public, or nursery
gardens, or in seed and bulb establishments (see Chap.
III.); and (ii) of Honorary Members as admitted under
Rule 30.

3. — The general control of the Association shall be
vested in the Executive Council, which shall consist of 24
members (including a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Trea-
surer, and General Secretary). The .Secretary of a Pro-
vincial Branch for an accredited representative of a
Provincial Branch) shall be an ex-officio member of the
Executive Council, and have power to vote.

4. — Eight members of the Executive Council (inclusive
of officers) shall form a quorum, and every a'ct. order
or decision authorised by these rules to be done, made
or come to by the Executive Council, shall be valid if
done, made or come to by the said quorum, except in
the case mentioned in Rule 40.

c;. — After the first Executive Council (elected under
these rules) shall have been in of&ce for two years,
eight of the members shall then retire annually by
rotation, and shall not be eligible for re-election within
a period of one year.

6. — The vacant seats on the Executive Council shall
be filled at the Annual General Meeting by other mem-
bers of the Association, each of whom shall have been
nominated by at least two menibers. Such nominations
must be sent to the General Secretary at least jS days
before the date of the .Annual General Meeting.

7. — The Executive Countil shall have power to co-opt
eligible members to fill vacancies that may arise before
the next Annual General Meeting, subject to confirma-
tion by such Annual General Meeting.

8.— The Annual General Meeting of the Association
shall be held about the end of May, or early in June
in each year, at a convenient plare decided upon by
the Executive Council, to receive the Annual Report
and Statement of Accounts, and to elect Council and
Officers for the ensuing ye^r .\ notice convening such
Annual General Meeting shall he advertised in the
Horticultural Piess at least if days beforehand.

9.— A Special General Meeting may be called at any
time provided a requisition for such meeting be signed
by at least 15 members, and forwarded to the General
Secretary not less than 28 days prior to the date of
such meeting, which shall be convened by liim. The
requisition must state definitelv the nature of the busi-
ness to be transacted at such Special G-neral Meeting,
and no other business shall be transacted thereat.

10.— Provincial Branches shall nominate their Secretary
or one of their members annually to represent them
on the Execxitive Council^ and all such nominations
shall be sent to the General Secretary at least 28 days
before the Annual Genpral Meeting. Nevertheless, any
member of a Provincial Branch may attend a meeting
of the Executive Council on producing the official card
of the elected representative of his branch.

II. — Members shall be elected by the Executive Council
who shall have power to e.\'pel from the Association any
member who shall have been convicted of any criminal
offence, or who has ceased to be in sympathy with the
objects of the .Association.

ij.— The Executive Council shall determine anything
not provided for in these rules, but in no case shall
they alter the established rules of the Association with-
out the sanction of a General Meeting.

372

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JL-.v;^ 0, 1C06.

13 —The Ex cutive Council shall at its first meeting
after the Annual General Meeting elect from its own
members a Cliairman and Vicr.-Chairman, who shall hold
such office for one year only.

1 4. —The duties of the Chairman of the Executive
Council shall be to preside over all its meetings, to sign
the confirmed minutes of each meeting, and to see that
the business is conducted in coafotmity with these rules.
He shall further, in conjunction with the General Secre-
tary, in any case where time is of importance, have
power to appoint special delcg.'-.tinns, and in case of
such appointment shall report hi:? having done so and
the proceedings of such special delegation at the next
meeting of the Executive Council.

15.— The Executive Council may at any time request
the resignation of its Chairman, Vice-Chaiiman, or
Treasurer, and appoint successors to these offices. It
iQay also dismiss the General Secretary and appoint
a Secretary pro. tern, in the case mentioned in Rule 41.

i6._The decisions of the Executive Council shall be
determined bv voting. The Chairman shall ha\'e his
vote as a member, and if on any question there is an
equalitv of votes, he ^hall also have a casting vote. The
Genera'l Secretary, if a paid officer, shall have no
vote, but he is hereby empowered to express his opinion
as other members.

as to the general state and conduct of the Association
as appears to them desirable, and a detailed account
of receipts and expenditure of the Association, duly
audited, together with a list of the names and addresses
of the members of the Association, the addresses of
the Branches, and the names and postal addresses of
the Branch Secretaries.

2c. — The Executive Council may appoint any number
of members of the Ai-sociation to act as delegates, or
as a sub-committee, to visit any locality :

(t2) — For the purpose of assisting or making known
the objects of the Association ; or

\ji) — For the purpose of makine; .iny enquiries the
Executive Council may think desirable.

(c) — For the purpose of conducting an Examina-
tion in Gardening-
The reasonable expenses of such delegates or sub-
committee shall, if necessary, be defrayed by the Asso-
ciation.

CHAPTER IL

Objects of the Asssociation.-
23. — The objects for which the Association is estab-
lished are : —

(a) To associate and unite the gardeners of the

employment in connection with their profession, in
cases where the Executive Council are fully satisfied
that the claim should be supported. Also to furnish
advice and legal assistance at the discretion of the
Executive Council, in cases of dispute or misunder-
standing between empl'yers and employed.

(/) I'o grant Diplomas to success'ul candidates at
any Examination that may be held by the Asso-
ciation.

CHAPTER III.

QUAUFKATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP.

24. — Candidates for membership must hive been trained
in some branch of gardening, and must be over 20 years
of age.

25. — If under 23 years of age a candidate must have
had at least five consecutiv^e years' graining in private,
public, or nuriery gardens, or in seta or biUb establish-
meats.

26. — If over 23 years of age a candidate must have
had at least seven consecutive years' profesional ex-
perience.

27. — In all cases candidates must submit satisfactory
testimonials and references as to-personal character and
competence.

Fig. 150. — THE TEMILE SHOW.

View of the group of new and rare foliage plants exhibited by Messrs. Sander & Sons.

17. — The Executive Council for the time being shall
be the General Trustees of the Association, and all real
and personal property of the Association of whatsoever
description under the control for the time being of any
branch, or ofhctr, or member of a branch of the A^.socia-
tion, shall be vested absolutely in the members of the
Executive Council for the time being as Trustees for the
use and benefit of the whole Associat-on in accordance
with these rules and not otherwise.

18.— Any legal proceedings undertaken in the interest
or on behalf of the Association shall be brought or
defended on behalf of the Association in the names
of the members of the Executive Council as such Trus-
tees, and they shall have power to defray the expenses
connected with any such proceedings from the funds of
the Association, individual members being exempt Irora
any personal liability in this matter.

19. — The decision of the Executive Council shall be
absolutely binding on any Branch or Branch Meeling,
Committee, Secretary, or Member.

20. — The Executive Council shall meet once a month,
but additional meetings may be held whenever the
Association's business requires.

21. — The Executive Council shall cause to be printed
anuual'y a Report, which : ball contain lUth information

United Kingdom, and to promote and extend the
influence and dignity of the Gardening Profession.

ib) To provide means for the co-operation of
gardeners, and to ascertain and give expression to
their cor.ective opinion upon matters affecting their
profession.

(c) The registration of the name, age, nationaUty
and professional experiences of qualified gardeners.

{d) The exc'.us-ion from any participat.on in the
privileges or benefits of the Association of un-
trained and inexperienced men.

(c) The improvement of the general and material
welfare of its members by endenvouring to secure
reasonable condi'.ionb of employment for gardeners.

(/) The encouragement of a higher standard of
education, and of greater professional efficiency
amongst its members.

ig) To assist members when out of a situation to
obtain another, as far as possible in accordance
with their experience and ability.

f/f) To induce n\\'ners of gardens, estates, nur-
series, public bodies, &c-, to employ members of
the Association in all gardenJUjg matters.

(/) To assist nienibcrs to obtain compensation for
injuries resulting lium accidents sustained during

-S.— Foreign gardeners employed in the United King-
dom are eligible for membership of the Association.

29. — After a period, to be determined by the Executive
Council, candidates for membership under the age tf
23 years shall be required to submit to an examination,
the form of which shall be first approved by the Associa-
tion at a General Meeting.

30. — Owners of gardens, and others, not eligible foi
election as effective members, may, at the discretion of
the Executive Council, be elected Honorary Members of
the Association. Honorary Members shall not be eu-
titlecl to vote at any meeting of the Association.

CHAPTER IV.

Registration and Subscription
31. — The entrance or registration fee payable by ap-
proved candidates shall be 2/6, and is payable once
only, except in the case of a lapsed member who wishes
to rejoin the Association.

32. — The annual subscription for each member shall be
2/6, payable on January jst in each year.

33. — Members elected after October ist in any year
shall pay the rcgistrat-on fe-e of j'6, and the first annva'

June 9, 1906]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

subscript-oil of 2/6, and shall be entitled to all the
privileges oi the Association until the end of the fol-
lowing year without further payment.

34. — Each member on eleciion shall receive a copy of
fhe General Rules and a Ce-fiihcaie of Membership.
The Certificate of JVIembersliip shall be in force for one
vear only but shall be renewable on January 1st in each
year on payment ot the annual subscription of 2/6.
Nevertheless the lixecutive Council may in their absolute
discretion refuse to receive any subscription or to
gyant any certificate without assigning any reason.

35. — In the event of a member losing his copy of the
General Rules or his Certificate of Membership, he
may, at the discretion of the Executive Council, obtain
a duplicate on payment of 6d. per copy.

36.— Any subscriptions not paid by the ist April in
each year shall be reported by ll>e General Secretary to
the Executive Council as being in arrear. No member
whose subscription is in arrear shall be entitled to
speak or to vote at any meeting of the Association, nor
to exercise an3' of the privileges of a member.

17. — .\ny member whose subscription is 12 months in
arrear shall, after due notice from the Genernl Srrre-

41. — The Executive Council may, if the General
Secretary be proved to its satisfaction to have been
guilty ot fraud, dismiss him without notice, and in such
case he may be proceeded against according to law, or
in case of his death or resignation the Executive Coun-
cil shall appoint any eligible member of the Association
to act as General Secretary until the next Annual
General meeting of the Association when, if possible, a
General Secretary shall be appointed according to these
rules.

42. — The General Secretary shall keep a book to be
called the " General Registration " Book, in which he
shall enter the names of all members of the Association
within 2S days from the date of their election, and
when and where they were admitted or re-admitted,
with a statement of their ages, whether they are married
o'r single, and their qualifications. If any Member be
transferred from one branch to another the General
Secretary shall enter a memoranaum thereof in the
General Registration Book and he shall remove there-
from the names of Members leaving the Association.
The General Registration Book shall be open for in-

Al — The Executive Council may, at its discretion, re-
munerate the General Secretary for services rendered.

48.— The accounts of the A5Sociation shall be kept by
the Treasurer and General Secretary. The financial
year shall end on April 30. All moneys shall be de-
posited at a Bank to the account of the Association, and
payments shall be made by cheque signed by the Chair-
man, Treasurer, and Secretary. The accounts of the
Association shall be .audited prior to the Annual General
Meeting by two auditors (not members of the Executive
Council) appointed at the previous annual meeting, one
of whom shall retire annually.

49. — The duties of Treasurer shall be to keep an ac-
count of the income and expenditure of the Association,
together with the General Secretary, and to submit to
the Executive Council at its monthly meetings an in-
terim financial statement together with the pass books
of the Association. He shall also give up all books,
documents or moneys belonging to the Association when
ordered to do so by the Executive Council or by a
general meeting. In case of the Treasurer's death or
resignation, the Executive Council shall appoint any
eligible Member of the Association to act as Treasurer

Fig. 151. — THE THMPLn SHOW.

Messrs. Sander & Son's exhibit of Orchids which, together with that of fine foliage plants (fig. 150), was awarded the Veitchian Cup.

fFor details see report in our last issue.)

tary, be

however,

cil. regain his membership on payment of ;,'6

tion to his arrears and current subscription.

considered a lapsed member. Such member,
may, at the discretion of the Executi\e Coun-

addi-

CHAPTER V.

Duties of Secret.^ry and Treasurer.

38. — The General Secretary shall vacate ofiice each
year at the Annual General Meeting, but he shall be
eligible for re-election. Nominations for the office of
General Secretary must be sent to the Chairman of the
Executive Council on or before the first of May in each
year.

39. — The General Secretary shall be under the control
of and obey the orders of the Executive Council, and he
shall receive all Registration Fees and Subscriptions,
keep all accounts, documents, books and papers belong-
ing to his office and shall print and distribute the re-
ports in such manne.r.and place as the Executive Coun-
cil shall direct.

40. — A majority of the Executive Council shall, if the
General Secretary has in their opinion wilfully mis-
managed or neglected the affairs of the Association,
have power to suspend him from his duties.

spection at all reasonable times to any Member of the
Association upon his giving 34 hours' notice.

43. — The General Secretary shall attend all meetings
of the Executive Council, and shall take minutes of the
business thereat transacted. He shall, at all such
meetings, have a free expression of opinion, but, if a
paid officer, shall not vote. He shall receive all letters
and parcels, conduct the correspondence of the Associa-
tion, and shall have the custody of the books, papers,
documents, stationery, &:c.

44. — The General Secretary shall produce, when re-
quired, all books, papers and documents of every kind
belonging to his office, to the Executive Council, and to
the auditors.

45. — The General Secretary shall file and keep all
notices and documents of any kind sent him by Branch
Secretaries or Members. He shall send all books,
notices, voting papers, and documents of all kinds,
stationery and goods required by these rules to be sent
from the general office or the Executive Council to
Branch Officers and Members and shall keep accounts
thereof to the satisfaction of the Auditors.

46. — The General Secretary shall prepare and submit
to the Executive Council for consideration the annual
report and shall send to the Secretaries of the Branches
the number of copies of the Report fhcy may require.

until the next Annual General Meeting of the Associa-
tion.

CHAPTER VI.

The Branches.

50. — Branches of the Association may be formed in
ditferent parts of the Kingdom. Such branches shall
hold meetings at least once a quarter at their respective
centres, and shall have the power of electing Members
and a Branch Secretary, but shall be subject to the
control and direction of the Executive Council of the
Association.

51. — If any branch, by the action of its officers or by
the action of any number of its members, lays claim to
tlie right of ownership or possession of any money or
property of any kind whatsoever by these rules vested in
the Executive Council, or to which the Executive Council
are entitled, or refuses to deliver up or account for the
same on demand duly made in that behalf, or determines
or attempts to secede fi*om the Association, or acts in any
way contrary to these rules, if proved to the satisfac-
tion of the E:*ccutive Council, such branch shall be
deemed the>sby dissolved, and the Executive Council
shall at once by any means it thinks fit obtain posses-
sion of all the funds, books and every description of
property in tlie bands of the branch, or its members, or

374:

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

QuNE 9, 1906.

officers or anv other person or persons, .-ind deal with
such funds, books and property at its discretion.

,2 _No branch shall, by the action of its ofhcers or
members dispose of any of the Association's funds
otherwise than as is by these rules allowed.

51 —Every act, order or decision authorised by these
rules to be done, made, or come to by any branch meet-
'ing shall be valid unless and until forbidden, rescinded
or overruled by the Executive Council or a General
Meeting of the Association. ,

51— Every branch shall hold its meetings at such
place as may have been selected by the majority o£ its
members. . , r t u

55.— All books, stationery, etc., required for branch
purposes shall be sent from the general of&ce, on ap-
plication from the branch Secretary, free of charge.

56.— If any branch or any branch officer receive any
circular or address relating to the conduct of the
Association or its business, or relating to the conduct
of any of its officers or members, the same or a
certified copy of it shall be sent within one month to
the Executive Council. , j i t

57.— All branch officers shall, when ordered by the
Executive Council, give up on demand to such person
or persons as the Council may appoint, all moneys,
books and other property of the Association in their
possession. ...,,,.

58.— Any Branch may depute one of its Members to
attend the meetings of the Executive Council, accord-
ing to rule 3.

CHAPTER VII.

Revision or Alteration of the Rules.

jg, — No rule of the Association shall be altered, added
to or rescinded, and no new rules shall be made except
in accordance with Rule 12, or at a General Meeting
specially convened for the purpose by the Executive
Council.

60. — The General Secretary shall forward to the Secre-
tary of each branch a sufficient number of copies of
the amended rules within 21 days after their adoption
by a General Meeting of the Association.

Recommendations to Members.

The Executive Council hopes that members will act in

the spirit of the Association in the following matters,

among others: — j . ,

(i> By the careful selection of youths to be admitted

as apprentices.

(ii) The affording of every facility possible to Ap-
prentices and Improvers in order to enable them to
acquire an intelligent knowledge of the WHY and
WHEREFORE of the commou methods of garden prac-
tice, thus inducing them to take a greater interest in
their work. "^ "

(iii) That in 'cases where the decision rests partly or
wholly with themselves, head gardeners will not keep
more apprentices in proportion to the number of
journeymen employed than is conscientiously believed
to be for the best interests of the prolession.

(iv) To endeavour to obtain proper bothy accom-
modation for the gardeners under their control if
they are expected to live in the garden. In large gar-
dens the bothy should contain a Reading Room,
Library, etc., in addition to the conveniences neces-
sary for hygienic purposes.

(v) In regard to wages, the Association recom-
mends that journeymen, 20 years of age and upwards,
should receive not less than 18/- per week with bothy.
or 2i/-without bothy. Foremen in private gardens and
small Nurseries, and single-handed gardeners, not less
than 24/- witll bothy or house, and 2~i without bothy or
house. Head gardeners and departmental foremen in
Nurseries having assistants under them, 30/- with house,
or 35/- without house. The Association recognises that
in many private gardens and Nurseries the wages
should be, and in some cases are already, very much
higher than those mentioned above for head gardeners,
and that it is not practicable to obtain uniform
wages throughout the country, because the cost of
living is very much greater in some localities than in
others, and because circumstances may, and do, vary
in different establishments.

(vi) In regard to hours of labour, the Association
suggests that for under gardeners, 56 hours (exclu-
sive of time allowed for meals) in the summer period
(9 months), and 48 hours per week in winter, should
be the maximum, and beyond tliis extra remuneration
should be given. Local circumstances, however, vary
greatly, and Members whilst endeavouring to carry out
the objects of the Association must do so in such a
manner as to convince employers, as well as employed,
that the Association is not antagonistic to any class,
but seeks to serve the interests of all. The Executive
lejoices that the Saturday half-holiday for under-
gardeners is now observed in many gardens, and all
head gardeners who can secure a half-day's relaxa-
tion each week or fortnight for their assistants will
find that the greater enthusiasm of the men will more
than compensate for the time sacrificed.

(vii) By adhering as far as possible to the spirit as
well as the letter of these recommendations it is con-
fidently hoped that an improvement may be brought
about." not only in respect of hours and wages, and in
the house accommodation provided for head gardeners
and their subordinates, but also in the skill and qualifi-
cations of Members of this Association, thus increasing
the effectiveness of those employed, and serving the
interests of employers.

(viii) Members when accepting the charge of a gar-
den, whether single-handed or having assistants under
them, are strongly recommended to secure a written
agreement with their employer providing for not less
than a month's notice to be given or received before the
termination of such employment. At the present time
the Executive Council is aware that the lack of such an
agreement is very frequently the cause of disputes that
might otlierwisc have been avoided.

Each clause of the Rules was carefully •con-
sidered before being accepted by the meeting.
A suggestion to remove section (ii) of Rule 2
was negatived by a large majority. Rule 17

was discussed at some length. Mr. W. W.
Pettigrew (Cardiff Branch) suggested that the
property procured by the branches themse'ves
should be absolutely vested in those branches,
and should not revert to the Society in the
event of the branch becoming extinct. The
rule, however, was allowed to remain, it being
pointed out that this was already provided for.
Mr. Pettigrew raised a discussion on clause (f)
of rule 23. He wished to see the clause so
framed as to compel head gardeners and others
in similar responsible positions to conduct or
cause to be conducted, classes for the benefit of
the young gardeners, wherein they might acquire

Rule 23. Mr. Watson thought it hardly went far
enough in its promise of help, and wished to
provide legal assistance in all cases of dispute
between employer and employe where neces-
sary. Mr. R. Hooper Pearson wariied the mem-
bers that they must not commit themselves at
present in this matter, and that legal assistance
might be desirable in some cases, but not ad-
visable m view of the present condition of the
association and its finances. They had first to
consider the interests of the association, that it
might eventually become strong enough to
effect the good it is not able at present to carry
out successfully and safely. Hasty action in

Fig. 152. — THE TEMPLE .SHOW.

A Rose pyramid, composed of wondrous blooms of the white Frau Karl Druschki, exhibited by

Mr. George Mount.
[See report published in last week's issue.]

greater professional aptitude and general educa-
tion.

Mr. R. Hooper Pearson pointed out that 'n
the " Recommendations to members " clause (ii.)
the executive council impress upon members
the desirability of "affording every facility pos-
sible to apprentices and improvers in order to
enable them to acquire an intelligent know-
ledge," &c., but that the council could not em-
body the proposal in a rule, because the asso-
ciation will not be in a position to compel a
member in such a matter. Nevertheless, those
members who acted in the spirit of the associa-
tion would impart instruction to the young men
in their charge.

Much discussion centred around clause (i) of

such a matter might involve the very existence
of the association. Mr. Stocks supported Mr.
Watson. He would rather see the society lose
its last penny than refuse assistance to a
wronged member. A member suggested that the
clause should be made to read that the society
would provide legal assistance at the discretion
of the executive council, and this was adopted by
the meeting, Mr. Watson withdrawing his motion.

It was decided (Rule 50) that the branches
should hold meetings at least once a quarter.
The rest of the rules were embodied without
discussion.

Election of Officers.

The number of members of the executive coun-
cil was raised froin 12 to 24. The 21 members

June 9, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

i575

proposed by the council (see Report) wero
elected. The council will co-opt three others.
Mr. John Weathers was re-appointed secretary,
Mr. E. H. llawes was appointed treasurer, and
Messrs. Dicks and Tinley auditors.

IVCARKETS.

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices (CotUdJ

AGRICULTURAL SEED TRADE
ASSOCIATION.

May 28. — The annual dinner of the mem-
bers of this association was held on the
above date at the Holborn Restaurant, Mr.
Wm. n. Le May (Messrs. W. H. i<: H.
Le May) occupying the chair. The Chair-
man, in proposing the toast of the evening,
" The Agricultural Seed Trade Association,"
said the association is of great value in settling
by arbitration disputes arising from sales
by sample. He held the opinion that
all seed should be sold by weight, for
when it is sold per bale, as is French and
Italian Ryegrass, trouble arises. He thought it
a matter the association should take un for the
convenience of both seller and buyer. Mr. Geo.
Sommer replied. He did not know any other
questions of so great importance as those of
purity and growth. It was a matter to be con-
sidered by the association. He supported the
proposal to postpone the annual dinner until the
time of the Cattle Show week in December.

Mr. Harrison also advocated the changing of
the date of the annual dinner to December. He
would like to see the Minister of Agriculture
approached for assistance in establishing a
control station for the United Kingdom. Mr.
Herbert Le May proposed the toast of the
" Visitors," and in doing so coupled with it the
names of Mr. Kenric B. Murray (secretary Lon-
don Chamber of Commerce), Mr. W. J. Downes,
and Mr. Wm. Watson. He fully agreed with
the remarks made by Mr. Sommer. He was
strongly of opinion that a control station should
be established in this country. Why should it
be necessary for us to send to Zurich to have
our seeds tested? Surely England could do this
work itself.

Mr. Kenric B. Murray thanked the members
for the cordial reception of the toast. He
thought it would be a wise step for the associa-
tion to adopt some standard of purity and ger-
mination.

DUTCH HORTICULTURAL AND
BOTANICAL.

May 9. — The committee awarded First-Class
Certificates to Cypripedium Powerianum magnifi-
cum, from Mr. H. C. Hacke, of Baarn (gr. Mr.
Th. Hendriksen), flowers deep red with black
stripes, a beautiful form ; to Odontoglossum
Rolfese, from Mr. W. C. Baron van Boetzelaar,
at Maartensdijk (gr. Mr. J. B. Gebhard). flowers
white with purple spots; to single early Tulip
"White Beauty." as a new plant from Mr. J.
WiTTEMAN, of Hillegom, a fine pure white Tulip,
a sport from Pink Beauty ; to Cvpripedium
callosum Sanderae, from Mr. J. H. Tkomp
Meesteks, of Steenwijk (gr. Mr. F. v. d. Brink),
flowers white and green, a fine form.

Certificates of Merit were awarded to Renan-
thera Imschootiana, from Mr. E. \-. Nederhas-
FELT, at Aerdenhout (gr. Mr. J. Draaier). flowers
vermilion coloured, butterfly-shaped ; to Cata-
setum Bungerothi, from Mr. P. W. Sutorius, of
Baarn (gr. Mr. K. Zimmerman), flowers ivory
white, cup-shaped, labellum large.

A Botanical Certificate was granted to Adhatoda
vasica (Justicia Adhatoda), as an insufliciently
known plant, from Mr. H. D. Willinkvan Collen,
of Breukelen, flowers white ; to Odontoglossum
crispum unicum, from Mr. P. J. Kikkert, of
Haarlem, flowers white with brown spots on
two of the three petals.

Certificates of Merit were awarded to Laelio-
CattleyaCharlesworthi, from Mr. E. A. Lehman,
a.t Amsterdam (gr. Mr. \\\ Bosma), flowers
light orange with purple labellum ; Cypripedium
Mr. B. G. V. Tienhoven, from Mr. H.'C. Hacke,
at Baarn, flowers white with green and red ;
Cypripedium. J. H. Tromp Meester. from Mr.
Tromp Meester, at Steenwijk, flowers beautiful,
fine white green and dark purple ; Exochorda
Alberti. as a new plant from the Hortus at
Utrecht ; Hortulanus Mr, J. K. Budde, a fine
hardy shrub, with white flowers ; Odonto-
glossum Rossi majus Eyckestein. from Mr.
"W. C. Baron van Boekelaar. at Maartensdijk,
flowers white with dark brown, a fine form.

CO VENT GARDEN, June 6.
[We cannot accept any responsibility lor the subjoined
reports. They are turnished to us regularly every
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
must be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several times
in one day. — Ed.}

Gut Flowers, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...

— coronaria varie-
ties

— fulgens, fl. pi.
Azalea mollis, doz.

bunches
Calla a^thiopica.per

dozen

Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...

— Malmaisons ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms

Dendrobium War-
dianum and no-
bile, per doz.
blooms

Eucharit grandi-
flora, per doz.
blooms.

Gardenias, per doz.
blooms

Gladiolus, Blush-
ing Bride, per
dozen bunches

— The Bride ...
Gypsophita eie-

fans, per doz.
unches
Iris germanica, per
bunch

— Spanish, per
doz. bunches...

Ixias

Lilac, per bunch ...
Lilium auratum ...

— candiduin, per
bunch

— lancifolium,
rubruni and
album

— longiflorum ...
Lily of the \'alley,

p. dz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Marguerites, white,

p. dz. bunches

— yellow, per dz.
bunches

.d. s.d,
16-30

16-30
8 0-40

3 0-50

2 0-40
10-26
6 0-10 0

10-30

3 0-40

9 0-12 0
5 0-90

3 0-40

0 9-10

2 0-30
2 6-40
10-20
2 6-30

16-20

16-26
2 6-40

4 0-80
9 0-12 0

; 0- 3 0

Mignonette, dozen

bunches
Myosotis, per doz.

bunches
Narcissus, per dz.

bunches
Odon toglossum

crispum, per

dozen blooms
Paionies, per doz.

bunches
Pelargoniums,

show, per doz.

bunches

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Poppies (Iceland),
per doz. bchs.

— Oriental, per
bunch

Primula, double

white, per doz.

bunches
Pyrethrums, dozen

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Rhodanthe, per dz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— Kaiserin A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty

— Mad. Camot...

— Mad.Chatenay

— Mrs. J. Laing
Stcphanotis, per

dozen trusses
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches ..
Tulips, per dozen

buncnes

2 0-30

1 G- 2 0

2 0-30

2 0-26

3 0-50
5 0-60

4 0-50
0 6-10

5 0-60
3 0-60

16-26
2 0-40

3 0-
1 6-

5 0
3 0

10-20
2 0-60

2 6-30

3 0-60

3 0-50

4 0-60

3 0-00

4 0-80

■ special quality 12 0-18 0

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.
Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz. 6 0-12 0

— — medium,

bunch ... 16-20

— — short sprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri
Adiantum cunea-

lum, doz. bun.
Berberis, p. bunch
Croton leaves, per

bunch

Cycas leaves, each
Fern, English, p.

dozen bunches

— French, doz.
bunches

0 6-09
0 6-10

4 0-60
2 6-30

10-16
16-20

3 0-40

Galax leaves, per
doz. bunches...

Hardy foliage
(various), per
dozen bunches

Hardy Grasses, per
doz. bunches...

Ivy-leaves, bronze

— long trails per
bundle

— short green,
doz. bunches...

Moss, per gross ...
Myrtle, per dozen

buncnes
Smilax, per dozen

trails ...

s.d. s.d.

2 0-30
16-20

10-20

2 0-30
5 0-60

3 0-60
3 0-60

Plants in Pots, Ac: Average Wholesale Prices.

Ampelopsis Veit-
chii, per dozen

Aralia Sieboldi,
per dozen

— larger

Araucaria excelsa,

per dozen

Aspidistras, green,

per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

Asparagus plumo-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri, doz.

— ten uissimus
per dozen

Azaleas, per doz. .

Begonias (tuber-
ous), per dozen

Boronia elatior, per
dozen

Calceolarias, yel-
low

Callas, per dozen ..

C h r y s a nthemum
segetum

Clematis, per doz.

— in flower
Cocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen
Crassula, hybrid,
per doz.

s.d. s.d.

60-80

4 0-60
12 0-15 0

12 0-30 0

18 0-30 0

24 0-36 0

9 0-12 0
9 0-10 0

8 0-10 0
18 0-30 0

50-80

18 0-24 0

4 0-60

5 0-80

6 0-10 0
8 0-90

IS o-ai 0

9 0-18 0

12 0-15 0

S.d. s.d

Crotons, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen ... 4 0-50

— laxus, per doz 4 0-50
Dracaenas, perdoz. 9 0-24 0
Erica Cavendishi ,

per dozen ... 24 0-26 0

— candidissima... 18 0-24 0

— persoluta ... 24 0-30 0

— ventricosa
magnifica ..- 24 0-J2 0

Euonymus, per dz. 4 0-90
Ferns, in thumbs,

per IDG 7 0-10 0

— in small and

large 60' s ... 16 0-25 0

— in48's,perdoz. 4 0-10 0

— in32's.perdoz. 10 0-18 0
Ficuselastica,p.dz. 9 0-18 0

— repens,perdoz. 5 0-80
Fuchsias, per doz. 6 0-90
Heliotrope, per dz. 6 0-80
HydrangeaHorten-

sia, per dozen 9 0-24 0

— Thos. Hogg ... 12 0-24 0

— paniculata ... 18 0-30 0
Kentia Belmore-

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0

— Forst eriana,

per dozen ... 12 0-21 0
Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 12 0-18 0

Lihum Icngiflorumj

per dozen
— lancifolium,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen

Lobelia

Marguerites, white,

per dozen

— yellow

Mignonette, p. doz.
Musk, Harrison's,

perdoz.
Pelargoniums
(Zonals), per
dozen

— Ivy-lcav'd,p.dz.

s.d. s.d.
15 0-24 0
18 0-24 0

18 0-30 0

5 0-60

6 0-12 0
15 0-18 0

4 0-60

4 0-60

5 0-80

Pelargoniums,

show

Petunias, double,

per doz.
— single {in OO's

only)

Rhodanthe, per dz.
Rhododendrons,

perdoz.
Roses, per dozen...
Saxifraga pyrami-

dalis, per doz.
Selaginella, dozen
Spiraea japonica,

per dozen
Verbena, Mi ssWill-

mott, per doz..

Fruit Average Wtiolesale Prices.

Apples :— South
Australian :

— Adams'- Pear-
main, per case

— Jonathans, per
case

— Monro's Fav-
ourite, per case

— New York
Pippins, p. case

— Rymers, per
case

— Wellingtons, p.

case

Nova Scotians,
per barrel :

— Ribston Pippin

— Blenheim Pip-
pin

— King of Tomp-
kin's County ...
Canadian, per
barrel :

— New York Im-
perials

T asm ani an
per case :

— Alexanders ...

— Sturmers

— French Crabs..

— Alfristons

— Sc. Pearmains

— Prince Alfreds

— New York Pip-
pins

— Roman Beauty
Apricots (French),

per box
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extra quality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per dz.
Cherries (French),

i sieve

— boxes

Cranberries, case...
Dates, Tunis, per

box

Figs, per dozen ...

Grapes (English),
Black Hambro,
per lb

s.d. s.d.

11 0-13 6
13 0-16 0

11 0-16 6

12 0-16 6

11 0-14 0

12 0-14 6

12 0-13 6
18 6-21 0
25 0 —

25 0-28 0

11 0-12 0
11 6-15 0
11 6-13 0
11 6-13 0
13 0-16 0

11 0 ~

12 0-16 0
11 0-14 6

0 9-16

7 0-90
6 0-70

8 6-10 0

U 0-13 0
4 6-60
0 8-13

4 6-66
0 9-16

13 0-14 0

4 0 —

2 0-80

16-30

s.d. s.d
9 0-15 0
5 0-60

16-26

3 0-50

18 0-30 0
12 0-18 0

12 0-18 0

4 0-60

5 0-10 0
8 0-12 0

s.d. s.d.

Grapes (English)

Muscat, per lb. 2 0-40

Gooseberries (Eng-
lish), ^ sieve .';. 5 0-60

Lemoi's :

— Messina, case 9 0-17 0

— Naples, p. case 17 6-25 0
Lychees, per box... 0 10- 1 0
Melons, each ... 10-20
Nectarines, English 2 0-12 0
Nuts, Cobnuts, per

doz. lb 8 0 —

^- Brazils, new,

per cwt. ... 45 0-48 0

— Spanish, per

bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 6 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag ... 18 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt 85 0 —

— Chestnuts, Italian,

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case

— Murcia
" Navel

— Jamaica

— Blood

Peaches (English),

per dozen
Pears, stewing
varieties, per ^
bushel

— stewing, crate 10 6
Tasmanian and
Austral ian
Pears, p. tray :

— Winter Nelis ..

— Glou Morceau

— Vicar of Wake-
field

— Bergamotte ...

— Beurr^ Diel ...

— Easter Beurre
Pineapples, each ...
Plums (Cape), per

box

Straw^berries, p. lb.

— Second quality 10-16

— French, crates

(4 baskets) ... 5 0-16 0

— French, crates

(10 baskets) ... 10 0-12 6

18 0-42 0

10 0-16 0

11 0-12 6
10 6-11 0

9 6-11 6

2 0-12 0

2 6-30

4 0-10 G
2 6-12 C

2 5-36
2 6 —
2 0-40
6 0 —

2 fr- 5 0

10 0 —

3 0-36

Vegetables : Average Wtiolesale Prices.

Artichokes, Green
French, p. doz.

Asparagus, per
bundle : —

— Toulouse

— Montauban ...

— Dijon

— Giants

— English, per
bundle

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, perpkt.

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— Channel Island
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, sprout-
ing, per bushel

per doz.

Cabbages, Spring,
per dozen

— red, per bushel
Carrots, French pad

— per bag, un-
washed

— bag, washed ...

— new, per dozen
bunches

Cauliflowers, per

tally

Chow Chow, per

dozen

Cucumbers, dozen
Endive, per dozen
Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles
Leeks, 12 bundles
Lettuces, Cos, per
dozen

— French, perdz.

s.d. s.d.
10-36

13-18
2 0-26
0 6-08
5 0-20 0

16-60
0 4 —
0 6 —

60 —
10 —

0 6-08

0 6-08
0 9-13

16-19
10-20

0 6-10

2 0 —

3 0 —

13-16
2 0-26

16-20

2 6-30
19-20

12 0-18 0
16-30

2 0 —
0 11- 1 .0

Marrows, per doz.

•Mint, per dozen ...

Mushroomsihouse)

per lb

— Buttons, per lb.
Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun.

Onions (English),

bag

— Valencia, case.

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, ^ bag..

— Spring, "dozen
bunches

Parsley, izbunches
Peas (French flats)

— English, per lb.

— Channellsl'nds
Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt....

— Channel Island
Kidneys

— Jersey, cwt. ...

— St. Malo, cwt.
Rhubarb, per doz.

bundles
Spring greens, per

bushel

Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Tomatos : —

— English, perlb.

— small selected

— Seconds, per
12 Ibs....^^ ...

Turnips, per doz.
bunches

— bags

— new, per dozen
bunches

TurnipTops, bush.

Watercress', per

doz. bunches ..

s.d. s.d.
4 0-80

3 0-40

06- 1 0
0 6-10

10-16

4 6 —

11 6 —

3 6-40
23 —

10-20
10-16

3 0-60
0 6-10
0 6-10

12 0-16 0

0 2^ 0 3

15 0-16 0
14 0-15 0

2 6 —

10-13

4 0 —

6 0 —
4 0-50

10-16
10 —

6 0 —
10-16

;7o

THE GA RDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JVNK 9, 1906.

Remarks.— Strawberries are a better trade owing to an
increased demand. French Strawberries are pleniilul, the
fruits arrive in a very soft condition. English Toniatos
are cheaper, but the foreign supplies have now finished.
Cucumbers are selling better. Both English and foreign
Asparagus are cheaper. Trade generally is good. E. H.
Rides, Lovent Garden, lVedjiesday,June6, 1906.

POTATQS.

Lincolns, 60s. to 70s. ; Dunbars, 85s. to 95s. ; Germans,
70s. to 75s.; Teneritte, 15s.; jerseys, 13s. to 14s.; Cher-
bourgs, lis. to Vis. ; Lisbons, 5s. per case.— /o/in Bath, 32
and 34, Wellington Street, Covent Garden.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

The Whitsuntide holidays have somewhat interfered
with trade, although business improved this morning.
Rambler Koses are over-plentiful. I find some are
sold to the street-hawkers at low prices. Some very
good Roses of the variety Mrs. J. Laing, in pots, arc-
now seen. Lilium longiflorum in pots are marketed by
several growers. I noticed fine plants offered at 24s.
per dozen. Hydrangeas of all sizes are good. H. Hor-
tensia, with about twelve large heads of bloom on each
plant, were realising 25s. a pair. There is little de-
mand for large Hydrangeas except on special occasions.
Well-grown plants of Marguerites in all sizes are
plentiful. The best trade is done in those realis-
ing from 6s. to 8s. per dozen. Saxifraga pyramidalis
will bjon be finished for the season. Herbaceous Cal-
ceolarias are over, but there are fine plants of the
ordinary yellow variety suitable for decorative purposes,
and others of the bedding type. Mignonette varies
considerably in quality ; best quality plants sell fairly
well. Pelargoniums ot all sections are good. 1 noticed
this morning well-flowered plants of the ivy-leaved
Baden-Powell, and another named Leopard, but they
are not so popular as the older sorts. In Zonals are
seen remaikably well-flowered plants of the leading
sorts in 48 pots. Plants in 60 pots are not so well
flowered as earlier in the season. The tricolor-leaved
varieties from Mr. Messer are veiy good. Show
varieties vary ; the best find but a moderate demand.
Among Fuchsias 1 find nothing new. Lady Heytesbury,
Ballet Girl, and Royal Purple are among the best seen.
Double Petunias are only medium in quality, but the
singles (in 6o's) are remarkably fine. Supplies ot
Azalea indica appear to be quite finished for the
season, but this morning I noted some good plants of
A. mollis. There is little variation in the supplies of
Palms, yerns, etc., and prices do not change.

Cut Flowers.
At closing time this morning there were large quan-
tities of beautiful Roses remaining unsold. I found
that good blooms of Liberty on long stems were offered
as low as 2S. per bunch of 12 blooms. Carnations sell
rather better, although these are also over-supplied.
Sweet Peas are quite a feature just now ; the quality
varies; some are very fine. Mr. J. Lowe, of Uxbridge
takes the lead with Gladiolus Colvillei in several
varieties of first-class quality. Centaurea cyanus, in
several shades of colour, from Mr. Weirmig, are very
good. He has also some nice Oriental Poppies. Shirley
Poppies are also coming in. Spanish Irises are still
very good. Herbaceous Pseonies and Pyrethrums are
arriving in large quantities. The single varieties of the
latter in soft pink, crimson, and other bright shades
are very nice. Liliums are more plentiful again, and
prices are lower. Lily of the Valley is not over-plenti-
ful. Stephanotis, Gardenias, and Tuberoses are all
plentiful. Among growers who have taken stands in
the new portion of the market are Messrs. J. F. Groves
and Sons, C. Banks, W. J. Heath, J. Fraser, Mizen
Bros., S. J. Dcnson, J. Solumon, and J. Glover. The
last-named salesman is the oldest regular attendant in
the market, he being the only survivor of seven who first
started in the street before the market was built; this
was about fifty years ago. — A. H., Covent Garden
Market, June 6th, igo6.

©bituari).

John Bath. — We much regret to record
the death of this well-known horticultural sales-
man, of 32 it 34, Wellington Street, Covent
Garden. Mr. Bath was born in Kent, and
early in his career assisted his brother, Mr,
J. Bath — a well-known salesman in the
Borough Market. He left his brother to start
into business in partnership with Mr. W. B.
Cooper. The partnership was dissolved after some
time, when Mr. Bath took over the entire business
to himself, and so successful did he become, that
he was obliged to take other premises adjoining
his own in order to cope with the increase.
Deceased was 62 years of age. The funeral will
take place on Friday, 8th inst., after these pages
have gone to press.

Black(E. — On the 5th inst., at 1, Belhaven
Terrace, Glasgow, Walter Graham Blackie, Ph.D.,
LL.D., Publisher, in his 91st year. Friends will
please accept this intimation.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Buttercup-Daisy : A.H. Your specimen belongs
to the species decipiens. If you try you can
easily evolve it in a few seconds. How many
aeons would be required to produce it naturally
is far beyond our powers of computation.

Carnation Souvknir de la Malmaison :
T. R. P. From a botanist's point of view there
is no recognised specific difference between Sou-
venir de la Malmaison Carnations and the
type known as tree Carnations, both sections
has'ing undoubtedly originated from one species
Dianthus Caryophyllus. But from the garden
standpoint there are wide differences, the most
obvious being the stronger, broader curled leaves
of the " Malniaisons " and the larger size and
more powerful fragrance of the flowers. The
green caly.x also is shorter, and the individual
sepals are wider and more obtuse. Their natural
season of flowering in English greenhouses is in
spring or early summer, rather than in winter,
when the tree varieties are often at their best.
"Malmaison" Carnations are propagated by
layers, and their cultivation is less simple than
that of tree Carnations. Owing to the leaves being
of thicker substance and often softer in texture,
they are more liable to attacks of the fungus
diseases. Careful cultivators make every effort to
obtain clean stock to start with , and then by keep-
ing the plants in as cool and well-ventilated an
atmosphere as is practicable the leaves become
comparati%-ely hard, and being usually free from
condensed moisture the fungus spores are the less
likely to gain a footing. We believe that some of
the new varieties show that crosses have been
made between plants of these varieties and other
types of Carnations. — R. McK. We fear that the
trouble is due to the fungus Helminthosporium,
but it is only in its early stage. Pick the
leaves off and burn them. Send us some of the
most disfigured leaves for further examination.

Crickets and Woodlice : Bathford. You can
kill them with a little arsenic and honey placed
near their haunts, but be careful to keep childrtn
and domestic pets out of the way when tie
arsenic is laid about. Many can be trapped by
means of garden mats, rolled and placed on the
hot water pipes. In the morning the pest will
be found hidden in the folds.

Cymbidium : B. L., Burton. There appears to be
nothing wrong with your treatment of Cypri-
pedium spectabile. Remove the soil carefully
from one or two of the plants and find out the
condition they are in.

Figs: G. H. The "fruits" may have fallen
from the tree owing to defective fertilisation
of the flowers, or possibly from disease. Send
us specimens for examination.

Grapes; C.A. Your berries are affected with
the "spot" disease— Glasosporium ampelo-
phagum. Cut out and burn all the diseased
berries and spray the bunches afterwards with
liver of sulphur, i ounce to one gallon of water.

MONTBRETIAS AND THEIR ALLIES : Moiltblftia-

You ask for a list of plants allied to the Mont-
bretia. These plants belong to the tribe Ixieje,
of the National Order Iridacete. The flowers of
this section are always spicate — that is, the
inflorescence forms a spike, and there is never
more than one flower to a spathe. Many im-
portant garden genera are to be found in the
tribe — the Ixias, Freesias, Watsonias, Babianas,
Gladioli, Antholyza, &c. The nearest genus
of all is Tritonia, of which Montbretia is
really a sub-genus. Other more nearly allied
genera to Montbretia are Crocosma, Tritonia.
and Sparaxis. In Crocosma the perianth-tube is
sub-cylindrical, with capsule inflated and deeply
three-lobed. The spathe valves are short and
oblong. In Tritonia, the perianth has a short
cylindrical tube. The outer spathe valve is
emarginate, and, like the others, small and oblong.
The Montbretias have a spreading oblong callus
on the claw of the three lower segments, which
is not found in Tritonias. In Sparaxis they are
scariose and deeply lacerated. The perianth-
tube, which is short, is funnel-shaped in the
upper half. .'Ml the genera in this section have
the perianth limb sub-regular.
Names of Plants : y. K. B. 1, Ornithogalum
nutans; 2, Saxifraga geum ; 3, Trollius europ-
seus var. ; 4, Caltha palustris double ; 5, Trol-
lius europseus ; 6. Helleborus viridis. — W. B. H.
Prunus Padus, native of Britain. — P. M. G.
Claytonia perfoliata. — F. B. Clematis {.\t-
ragene) alpina. — G. C. We cannot undertake to
name Azaleas. — Grasses. 1, not recognised ; 2,
Trifolium minus ; 3, Bromus mollis ; 4, Aira
caespitosa ; .5, Alopecurus pratensis ; 6, not recog-
nised ; 7, Bromus sterilis. — T. V. 1, Gesneria
elongata ; 2 and 3, Anthurium Scherzerianum ;
4, Anthurium Andreanum ; 5, a seedling from
Andreanum ; 6, Oncidium divaricatum ; 7,

Nepeta Glechoma variegata. — T. H., Ireland.
1, Ophiopogon spicatum variegatum ; 2, Eurya
latifolia variegata ; 3, Ophiopogon Jaburan
variegatum ; 4, Veronica spicata variegata ; L.
Lithospermum prostratum ; 6, Polygala Dal-
maiseana. — A. Y.L. Vanda limbata. — H. H.
1, Odontoglossum Coradinei ; 2, 3 and 4,
Varieties of Masdevallia Harryana ; 5, Sophro-
nitis grandiflora ; 6, Dendrobium chrysanthum.
— C. B. Vanda tricolor. — A. S. Tamarix
species, probably T. gallica.

Os \NGE Rust on Roses ; H. IV. C. and It- .M. B.
The Orange rust is one stage in the life history of
Phragmidiurasubcorticatum, a fungus figured and
described by Mr. W. G. Smith in our issue for
July 17, 1SS6. The appearance of the disease
in spring depends on the presence of resting
spores from the previous autumn. It is, there-
fore, necessary to collect and burn all fallen
leaves in the autumn. Spraying with dilute
Bordeaux mixture or ammoniated carbonate of
copper solution or with a solution of sulphate of
copper — 2 ounces in 3 gallons of water -in early
spring before the buds expand, and at intervals
during summer will check the disease.

Peach Leaves Injured : Gaideiiia. We suspect
the cause of injury to arise from the contami-
nated water, for the appearance of the foliage
points to injury from some physical, rather
than from fungoid attack. If the poison has not
affected the roots, the trees will recover later,
although they must necessarily receive a severe
check from the defoliation. Syringe the plants
with clear water, and encourage growth afresh.

Potatos : W. D. S. The trouble complained of
is one well known and often discussed in
horticultural periodicals. There is no specific
disea^^e present, but for jome yet unexplained
reason certain strains of Potato, grown under
certain conditions, prove almost entirely or quite
sterile. The substances present in the tuber
that should dissolve and form the first food for
the young shoots fail to do so, consequently
there is no growth. The explanation usually
given is that the outcome of such sterility is due
to long continued reproduction by means of
tubers only, which acts on some particular
strains much more than on others. The con-
dition is much more prevalent in France than
in this country. '

Primula obconica : J. M. The irritation will in
all probability gradually subside of itself, aided
by the application of cold water. If it does not,
consult a medical practitioner.

Rain Water : A. T. In order to soften the hard
water let it be put out into tubs and tanks and
exposed to the air as long as possible before it
is applied to the plants.

Rhododendrons in Window Boxes: A. T.
These are not the most suitable plants for such
cultivation, and the trouble is probably due to
their exposure in a too sunny position, and to
'the roots suffering occasionally from want of
water. Have the boxes made of a good depth,
cultivate the plants in peat soil, and above all
give careful attention to providing the roots with
water. A window sill in half shade would be
the best position during summer time.

Rose: F. B. The calyx tube is not so much
developed as usual so that the carpels are ex-
posed. It is of very common occurrence, and is
due to some check to growth, but how that
check was caused we cannot say.

ToMATOS : \V. H. G. We cannot say what the
disease is unless you send us specimens for
examination. Tomato plants should not be
syringed frequently, if at all ; moisture makes
the foliage more susceptible to the attacks of
fungi. The Asters are doubtless attacked by
the mildew fungus mentioned in the reply to
Junction on p. 355, which see.

Vine Leaves: F. A. The leaves are perfectly
free from any disease that can be attributed to
either fungi or insects. The brown discoloration
which constantly follows the larger veins of the
leaf undoubtedly originates in some disturbance
of the balance between root and leaf action, and
the disturbing cause in all probability will be
found to proceed from the roots, which should
be examined next autumn season.
Communications Receiveu.— W. J. B.-E. A. D.S.--W. B,
—J. H.-B. D. J.— B., Hayata, Tokyo-A. H.— L. E. W. -
Dr. Fecide, Berlin— C. O., Anlwerp— V. A. C, Ilhaca, New
York— L. B., New York-H. F. Mc M.— R. Veitch & Son
_J. W,— T. H.— W. H.— W. A. C— Shaflesbury-J. D.—
J. W.— E. B. W.— C. P.— Sanders— C. E. M.~A. C. B.—
X. L.— W. E. C— E. H. J.— A. W.— J. G.— S. A.— F. M.

Supplement to the " Gardeners' Chronicle.''

Sketched by Mr, Smith fvcm specimens exhibited by Lady Plowden.

Plumieria lutea, a Peruvian Shrub, introduced to this country in 1869. Flowers

WHITE WITH golden YELLOW THROAT, THE LOBES BEING SLIGHTLY FLUSHED WITH PINK.

Temple Press Ltd., Printers. 7-15, Rosebery Avenue, London, E.C.

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

377

THE

Oakley Court, Windsor

3.82

asi

Obituary-

Baxter, Robert S. ...

3'lti

381

Orchid notes and glean-

ings

378

asu

Parsley at Exhibitions...

384

a84

Plants, new or note-
worthy—

39b

Two new Dendro-

biums —

380

3HB

Plant notes—

8HH

Ribes lacustre

3?n

3«9

Sutherlandia frutes-

cens

380

387

Post-cards, nature-study

388

384

Potatos, seed

384

390

Pruning, summer

377

Pump, a new pedal

390

3!)1

Societies—

iiSil

Linnean

39,'i

388

Royal Botanic

394

387

Royal Horticultural ...
San Francisco, notes

391

388

from

Strawberry, Bedford

389

391

Champion

391

3S)1

Thatching, material for

389

3111

Trees and shrubs

•AH)

387

Vegetation of the high

Alps

386

387

Water gardens

Week's Work, the—

389

388

Flower garden, the ...

385

Fruits under glass ...

384

;w

Hardy fruit garden ...

385

378

Kitchen garden, the ..

385

Orchid houses, the ...

385

a91

Plants under glass ...

384

^arbcncrs'Cbronicli

No. 1,016.— SATURDAY, June 16, 7906.

CONTENTS.

Alpine pardcn, tlic —

Diaiitliiis Freyiiii

Rosmarinus officinalis

prostratus

Apples, house-grown

and outdoor

Asparagus

Benevolent Institution,

Gardeners' Royal
Books, notices of —

Journal of the R.H.S.

Manuring

Publications received
Burbidges, the late F.

W., library, sale of ...
Cabbage, Ellam's Early
Calceolarias, hybrid ..
Carnation, Princess of

Wales

Climate and vegetation

Clover, red

Flowers in season
Foolpatlis, the preserva-
tion of

Fruit crops and spring

frosts

Fruit prospects, the ...

Gnats

Gooseberry mildew
Horticultural Science

Society

Hybridation conference,

the coming

Irises, English and

Spanish

Kew notes

Magnolias at Abbots
bury

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Angrrecum Kotschyi 379

Anker's Patent Pedal Pump 391

Bulbous Irises in the Royal Gardens, Kew (Supple-
mentary Illustration)

Calceolaria x Kewensis and its parents 390

Oakley Court, Windsor, views of the residence and

grounds at 382-383

Rhododendron Gomer Waterer ... 393

SUMMER PRUNING.

THE general ignorance in the matter of fruit
culture in Great Britain is still surpris-
ingly great, although in various dis-
tricts a gradual improvement has been
noticeable during recent years. Market-
gardeners and others who pay particular
attention to the subject of orchard cul-
tivation with a view to making a profit there-
from usually put themselves in possession of
a knowledge of up-to-date methods, and are,
as a rule, careful to select suitable situations
for their orchards, afterwards paying full atten-
tion to their crops in every detail. By such
methods, and only by the most careful and con-
stant supervision, can anyone hope to make
fruit-growing a profitable occupation, and even
then there is a great deal that must be left
to chance, for in this uncertain climate one
never knows what a season — or even a day —
may bring forth in the matter of weather.

But even if we assume that the professional
fruit-grower a'ways knows his business — an as-
sumption that is not quite justified in every
instance — we have ample proof on every hand
that there are thousands of amateurs (among
whom we may include many who dispose of their
surplus supplies, when they have any, in the
market) who have very little idea indeed of
the manner in which an orchard should be
csred for if it is to realise a satisfactory return.
It matters little whether one has few trees or

many, or whether it be desired to grow for home
consumption or for sale, for the principles in-
volved in either case are the same. It is true
that anyone with plenty of time on his hands
and only a few trees to look after can afford
to give greater attention to the orchard than
.his neighbour who is doing things on a larger
scale; and, of course, under such circumstances
the man with (he smaller orchard may be ex-
pected to get a better result per tree than the
other, but no one should attempt to cultivate a
larger orchard than he can manage to main-
tain in its highest state. It will be found, too,
in this matter, as in others, that the greater
the number of trees, the more difficult will it be
to maintain a high average of individual excel-
lence.

The Advantages of Summer Pruning.
No branch of fruit cultivation is so neglected
perhaps as the matter of pruning, and the pre-
sent is a suitable occasion for the discussion
of the subject. The old idea of pruning such
fruit trees as Apples, Pears, Plums, Cherries,
Currant (black and red), and Gooseberries, was
that the work should be left until the winter, and
this method is still practised in nine gardens
out of ten. The chief arguments brought for-
ward in support of the old-fashioned method
are, firstly, that trees would be injured if
pruned at any time except when they are in a
dormant slate; secondly, that you can "get at
them " and see what you are doing so much
better when the leaf is off ; and, thirdly, that
pruning is a sort of job which comes in fiandy
as an occupation for idle hands during a dull
period in the off season. As for the first of
these ideas, I may say at once that, if judi-
ciously done, pruning in the summer is far less
likely to hurt the trees than if it be done in
the winter, especially if the weather in the lat-
ter case should be cold or frosty. In the second
place, when the leaf is off the tree, you are by
no means so well able to judge what pruning
is necessary, because it is the leaves that do
the crowding on the branches, and the object,
or one of the objects, of pruning is to avoid
this crowding, which prevents the free passage
of light and air — two essential things if fruit
is to be expected.

And as for pruning being a handy job to
fill up time, one can only say that since it is
. one of the mc > t important jobs of the }'ear, it
should be att</ided to at its proper season, and
not looked upon as a sort of odd time occupa-
tion.

I do not, of course, intend to suggest that
winter pruning is altogether an unnecessary
operation, for there are many instances in which
a certain amount of work in this direction may
be desirable during the time that the tree is
resting. This is the case particularly with old
trees carrying a lot of dead or cankered wood,
whose presence is not only a hindrance to the
well-being of the healthy parts of the tree, but
also a useless encumbrance, and a happy hunt-
ing ground for all sorts of injurious insects.
Work of this sort may be advantageously done
in the winter, because it involves a good deal
of time and heavy labour — a thing for which
one can seldom arrange conveniently in the
more busy summer season. In addition to this,
the cutting away of dead or useless branches
must cause a certain amount of injury to the
maturing crop if such work be done while the
trees are carrying their crops, and for this rea-
son also the removal of larger branches is best
attended to at a time when there is little chance
of damage being done. Even in the winter
there will be next year's buds to take care of,
but if the thinning of heavy branches is at-
tended to early in the winter, as soon as the
sap has ceased to flow, the chance of injury to
buds will not be very great, and the trees will
not suffer in any way from subsequent frost
if any wounds on the live wood are dressed
over with paint or other suitable preparation.

-■\part from this removal of dead or dying wood,
and damaged or deformed branches, all other
pruning may safely be carried out iu the sum-
mer season.

The advantages of summer piaaing are in-
deed manifold. The process involves less
labour, because the wood to be removed is soft
and easily nipped off with a knife, or some-
times even with the linger and thumb. There
is, therefore, a gain in time, for a man may
prune half a dozen trees in June in the time
that one would be occupied in operating on one
in the following winter after the twigs had grown
to their full extent and toughness. To the tree
itself there is also a gain in time and energy,
for the rest of the growing season, alter prun-
ing in June, will be occupied in plumping up
fruit-buds for the coming spring, instead of
v/asting power in making more wood and a
quantity of useless wood buds which will never
be allowed to come to anything. The tree will,
very probably, try to make a little moie wood
during the two remaining months of summer,
July and August, but the shoots thus formed
will only be quite small, and may easily be
rubbed off with the fingers at the end of the
latter month, or so soon as they appear, if the
extra time can be spared. By following the
custom of summer pruning here laid down,
there is a gain of practically a whole season in
the development of the trees, a state of things
which is of the utmost importance to anyone
desiring a quick return for capital invested in
the orchard. Again, it will be possible under
this method to admit light and air among the
branches at the very time of year when those
two indispensable requirements of a fruit tree
are to be obtained at their best, thereby allow-
ing the trees to derive the full benefit of the
summer sun for ripening the fruit and harden-
ing off the new growth of wood upon which
the buds are forming for another season. This
admission of light and air is in reality the
greatest advantage of summer pruning, because
it encourages the natural action of the tree in
all ways without unduly hurrying it, while, at
the same time, a great part of the tree's work
is taken away from it by the removal of useless
growths.

It is easy enough to lay down hard and fast
rules for the summer pruning of Apples, Pears,
Plums, and Cherries, but there are a few ex-
ceptions here and there, which the inexperi-
enced should look out for. The reason for this
caution is to be found in the fact that a few
varieties (e.g., the " Peach Apple,'' as it is
commonly known, although there is more than
one variety of Peach Apple), have a habit of
producing their fruit in an unorthodox fashion.
The Apples referred to fruit more readily at the
tips of their branches on the young wood than
on the older growths, as is common with most
other varieties, and there are a few other kinds
of fruit trees of various sorts that have similar
peculiarities. It is sometimes for lack of
knowledge in this direction that amateurs, fol-
lowing the most approved methods of pruning,
are disappointed at the failure of their crops.
An acute obserxer will, however, soon learn how
to treat the exceptions to the general rule, and
if he be in doubt as to the right mode of pro-
cedure, his best plan is to consult a neighbour
whose experience in such matters is to be relied
upon. Asking advice is very dangerous at
times, and if it is sought too often, so many
different ways of doing a thing will be stated
that the novice will be more perplexed at the
end than at the beginning. But the counsel of
one whose fruitful orchard is a living testimony
to the power of his knowledge and his skill
should be sought.

The method of pruning Apples, Pears, Plums
and Cherries is practically the san;e in each
case, always remembering that the two latter
usually require more lenient treatment than the
two former. It is easy enough to distinguish
the fruit-buds from the ordinary wood-buds, "and

o78

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1906.

one must exercise one's common sense as to
hovr to leave plenty of ih^ former with a suffi-
cient number of the latter to carry on
ths growth of a shapely tre?. The general rule
of summer pruning is to nip back the young
shoots to within five or six "eyes" of their
origin, and then, later on, if new growth has
been made, to nip the last shoot back to within
one eye of the older piece. This holds good
for Apples and Pears, but with Plums and
Cherries, after the tree is to some extent pruned,
the chief anxiety of the fruit-grower should be
the training in of good sturdy shoots well
covered with fruit-spurs, and the cutting out
of all useless or crowded shoots mainly covered
with wood-buds only. Weakly growths, which
generally appear on trees that have been allowed
to get overcrowded, should be thinned severely,
and the same thing applies to long, strong
shoots that show a tendency to produce wood-
buds without development of fruit-spurs. In
this latter case, root-pruning is usually a neces-
sity, but of that we must treat on another occa-
sion. Nor is the process of shortening the
roots desirable at the same time as the pruning
of the branches. If the tree above ground is
attended to first, any root-pruning necessary
may be seen to later on in its proper season,
before the new year's growth begins.

Bush-fruit.
A word as to the treatment of bush-fruit will
supply a fitting end to this article. In Red Cur-
rants, as everyone knows, the desire of the
cultivator is to retain the old wood with an
occasional strong shoot at the tips of the
branches to extend the growth of the bush.
Young growths at the side should be pinched
hard back, and new shoots at the tips shortened
to six or eight " eyes." Every other year, a
couple of young shoots from the base, if there
be such, may be allowed to come up to take
the place of the worn out wood in the course
of time. With Black Currants, which bear on
the young wood for the most part, the treatment
is exactly the opposite. Old wood should be
cut out so soon as it fails to produce long,
healthy young shoots, and young wood should
be encouraged without overcrowding. A slight
shortening of the young shoots may be neces-
sary if they are inclined to grow too long, but,
as a rule, this will not be necessary. Goose-
berry bushes bear the best fruit also on the
younger wood, and require little pruning, ex-
cept the " tipping " of the shoots, the removal
of those that become too crowded, and the cut-
ting out of dead wood or that which is past
bearing. It should be remembered that with all
bush fruits the object of the pruner should be
to maintain his bushes as nearly as possible in
the form of an inverted cup, letting in light and
air in the centre, and encouraging the formation
of fruit as much as possible on the outer edges
of the circle. This is a golden rule with all
kinds of fruit trees grown in the open, and
should be borne in mind during the process of
pruning. East Sussex.

KEW NOTES.

Senecio Heritieri.

It is considerably over 100 years since S.
Heritieri was introduced into this country. A
small spray figured in the second volume of the
Botanical Magazine, tab. 53, under the name of
Cineraria lanata, gives a rather poor idea
of the plant. However, at that time its value
was recognised, for in the description of the
plant we read that it " by far eclipses all the
others (Cinerarias) cultivated in our gardens."
Africa is given as the home of the plant, but
this has since been proved incorrect. A native
of the Canaries, it is probable that the Kew
collector, Philip Masson, was the first to intro-
duce the plant.

It is a loose, much-branched plant, and, as
flowering in No. 4 greenhouse, is about 3 feet

in height. Grown from cuttings rooted in the
autumn, the plants were kept in a cool frame
during the winter and later in a cool house.
The branches, petioles, and underside of the
leaves are covered with white tomentum, the
upper surface of the leaves being greyish green.
The flower-heads are slightly fragrant, about 1}
inches across ; ray florets, white-tipped with
lilac ; disc florets purple, from which, when ma-
ture, the yellow anthers stand out prominently.
The species lasts in flower for quite two months.

Late Flowering Tulips.

The flower beds in front of the Palm House,
between 40 and 50 in number, were this year
devoted to late flowering Tulips. In a few of
the larger beds Wallflowers, Polyanthus, and
Pansies were associated with the Tulips. Only
one variety was grown in a bed, in a few in-
stances there were two or four beds of one
variety.

The Darwin Tulips, during the last few years,
have become very popular, but several colours
lacking in them are to be found amongst the
May-flowering cottage Tulips, and to obtain the
best effect they should be used in conjunction.

It is easy to distinguish the Darwins by their
more robust habit and stiffer flower stalks. Pride
of Haarlem is a rich, dark-rose coloured flower,
easily first here in point of size ; Margaret, a
pleasing soft pink shaded with silvery white.
Deeper in colour are the rich pink flowers of
Clara Butt, probably the most popular of all
the Darwins. La Tulipe Noire, the black Tulip,
naturally attracts immediate attention. A small
round bed containing about 100 bulbs has beoa
very prominent. Two large beds of Krau
Angelica, although not so rich in colour, were
effective in contrast with the varieties in close
proximity. Harry Veitch is one of the richest
reds, a very telling colour associated with yel-
low Wallflowers, as also are William Pitt, crim-
son. The Shah, and Europe, salmon-scarlet.
Rose Queen has lovely lilac-rose flowers, other
shades of lilac are Early Dawn, Guden, and the
heliotrope lilac Rev. H. Ewbank. La Candeur
is the nearest to a pure white grown here in this
section, when first opening it is shaded witn
lilac passing to white.

The May-flowering cottage varieties are used
chiefly to furnish yellow and white. The reader
may imagine the picture of over 2,000 flowers of
Parisian Yellow gracefully swaying over a
groundwork of dark Wallflowers. Parisian
White, Picotee, white-edged with rose, and La
Merveille, a rich salmon-orange delightfully
fragrant, all helped to add to the effect as a
whole.

The gorgeous Parrot Tulips were represented
by half-a-dozen beds. The flower stalks twist
and tumble about in such a way that they do
not lend themselves, like the varieties with stiff
stalks, for effective arrangement, especially in
the distance.

Altogether between 14,000 and 15,000 bulbs
were planted last autumn. A. O.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

ANGR.^CUM KOTSCHYI. (See fig. 153.)
A SPECIMEN of this rare, singular, and beautiful
species is now in flower in the Right Hon. Lord
Rothschild's gardens, Tring Park (gr. Mr. Arthur
Dye) . The species was first discovered by Theodor
Kotschy in 1838, and is recorded as having been
found in several districts in East Africa at later
dates, but it was not introduced into gardens until
Sir John Kirk sent it from Zanzibar. The plant
flowered for the first time in the nurseries of Messrs.
Jas. Veitch &Sons, at Chelsea, in 1880. It is a very
striking species with short stems, very thick roots,
ovate, unequally bilobed, dark green leaves, and
pendulous racemes of white flowers, each over
an inch and a half across, and borne on pale
salmon-red pedicels. The flowers are furnished
with spurs 9 inches in length, thicker on the
apical half which is more or less spirally twisted.

The Hon. Walter Rothschild obser%'es that the
spur coils up on the apical half at night, thus
shortening its length. In the daytime it straightens
out and consequently elongates. 'The specimen
at Tring Park came from Uganda, and the Angrae-
cums received from that district at Tring Park
include the large and singular A. infundibulare,
previously only known on Princes Island on the
extreme west, A. Kotschyi, which extends to the
extreme east; A. Rolhschildianum whose only
affinity is A. Galeandrae, a West African species-
not in cultivation, and two or three other singular
looking species which have not yet bloomed.
The Tring Park A. Kotschyi has flowers larger
than the original type, the lip especially being
broader. It requires a warm temperature similar
to Phalaenopsis.

CIRRHOPETALUMS.

Several pretty species sent by different corre-
spondents last week prove that there is still
interest in these singular and pretty Orchids.
From Sir Chas. W. Strickland, Bart., Hildenley,
Malton, Yorks, comes a rather showy species
which, however, travelled badly, for the blooms
were withered on arrival. It is probably Cirrhol
petalum pulchrum, the dome-like upper sepa-
striped inside with purple, and bearing an erect
purple filament at the apex being exactly like that
species. The habitat of C. pulchrum is said to be
Malaya ; the species sent by Sir Chas. Strickland
is supposed to come from Uganda. If so it is of
additional interest, for probably the only species
recorded near that region is C. Thouarsii, of
Madagascar.

C. Collettii is sent by G. W. Jessop, Esq.,
Cliffe Cottage, Rawdon, Leeds. It is one of the
most beautiful and elegant species. The pretty
umbel bears flowers 3i inches in length, the
closely approaching lower sepals being continued
into slender tails, and the upper sepal and petals
decorated with a pnrple fringe, the body of the
flower yellow and purple.

• Cirrhopetalum cornutum is from the Hon.
Walter Rothscliild. whose specimens bore many
umbels of yellow and copper-timed flowers. Also
from Messrs. Hugh Low & Co.

Cirrhopetalum picturatum is from Messrs.
Sander & Sons, St. Albans. It is a showy species
with umbels of greenish flowers mottled with
purple, and each nearly 2 inches in length. The
upper sepal is concave and furnished with a purple
filament bearing a thickened tip. The lip is of
deep purple.

Cirrhopetalums are best cultivated in baskets,
or Orchid pans for suspending near the glass.
They are mostly evergreen plants which do not
require to be perfectly dried off during the resting
season, though when not making growth or roots
only a very limited supply of water is needed at
the roots, and the plants require a less warm
atmosphere.

GREAT ORCHID SHOW AT MANNHEIM.
The programme of the Great International
Spring Show of Orchids to be held at Mann-
heim, Germany, on May 7, 8, 9, 1907, is already
to hand, and particulars relating to the pro-
posed show can be had from Mr. Otto Beyrodt,
Marienfelde, Berlin, a gentleman who took the
lead in organising the very successful Orchid
show at Dus=eldorf two years ago. The schedule
contains 53 classes for Orchids. No important
section seems to have been omitted, and prizes
are offered on the most liberal stale. Class 1, for
example (collection of 100 and more Orchids in
flower in different varieties, nurserymen) : 1st
prize, 1,000 marks ; 2nd, 500 marks ; 3rd, 300
marks. Class 2 (amateurs): 1st, 800 marks;
2nd, 400 marks ; 3rd, 300 marks. British
Orchidists were delighted with their reception at
Dusseldorf, and it augurs well for the show at
Mannheim, where we hope our countrymen will
be well represented. Mr. Beyrodt states that
Orchids are making great headway in Germany,
and that the newly established Orchid Society
has a large number of members whose numbers-
are steadily increasing.

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

379

Fig. 153. — ANGR.SCL'M KOTSCHYI. FLOWERS, WHITE. (For text see page 37s.)

380

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JuNS 16, 1906.

e^E^y OR NOTEWORTHY
PLANTS.

I HAVE received from M. Geo. Bronckart,
of Charleroy (Belgium), two new species of
Dendrobium found in Indo-China.

Dendrobium Bronckarti* was discovered in tlie
hills. It flowered in May, and has been named
after the collector. In habit it seems near D.
Farmeri of Paxton, but the stems are slender, not so
club-shaped ; the lip is tinged with rose, the disc
being orange-yellow. The flower-bracts are very
long. This beautiful species is very promising.

The second S7,ecies. found in the same country,
from which we have seen flowers preserved in
alcohol, and living plants, is beautiful and free-
flowering. It has stems attaining 75 centimetres in
length, and much flattened when dried. The leaves
are in two ranks, alternate, emarginate at the apex,
deep green, and 8 to 10 centimetres in length. The
flowers are very numerous, one stem bearing seven
to eight racemes, each with from three to four
flowers. The sepals, not so large as the petals,
are ivory-yellow and spreading, the petals are
undulated and twisted, and of the same colour as
the sepals ; the lip is as long as the petals and
sepals, tapering into a short claw, cucullate,
downy on both sides. The base is yellowish, the
central part violet, and the apex ivory-yellow.
The column is very short. M. G. Bronckart
found the plant at an altitude of 500 metres, and
has several plants in cultivation at Charleroy.
This D. Dartoisianumt seems to be allied to the
group of D. heterocarpum Wallich, D. Pierardi
Roxburgh, and with forms of the group of D.
nobile, but the sepals of D. Dartoisianum are not
so large as those of D. nobile and allied species.
£. D. Wildeman.

HOUSE-GROWN AND OUTDOOR
APPLES.

We are often treated at exhibitions to a sight
of singularly fine, richly-coloured examples of
house-grown Apples. It is always evident that
such specimens excel in colour and finish, if
not in size, outdoor fruits of similar varieties.
What has been asked, and, so far as I know,
not answered, is how much do these beautiful
house-grown fruits differ in flavour and table
quality from good open-air grown fruits? It by
no means follows that external beauty anJ
quality are synonymous. Too often it is the
other way, and of both Apple and Pears the
best flavoured fruits have come from fairly old
trees, often Standards in orchards, rather than
from dwarf trees that have been highly fed,
although the fruits so produced have been both
large and high-coloured. Grand as a dish of some
fine, high-coloured Apple or Pear may look on
the dessert table, yet how lafely is real quality
found allied. The fruits may be juicy, or they
may be dry, but how seldom rich in flavour?
Besides testing indoor against outdoor fruits
of similar kinds of varieties, we have need

♦Dendrobium Bronckarti De WiUUman, n.sp. Caulibus
elongatis, articulatis sulcatis, basi obscure pseudo-bulbosis,
apice paulo inflafo-clavatis, apice foliosis ; foliis ovatis coria-
ceis, 11 cm. circ. longis ; racemis lateralibus multifloris, circ.
iiacm. longis. pendulis ; bracteis ovato-lanceolatis, 18-20 mm.
longis; sepalis late ovatis, circ. 26 mm. longis et 10 mm.
latis subobtusis, roseo-tinctis ; petalis subconformibus sed
latioribus circ. 12 mm. latis ; labello rhomboideo obtusissimo
unguiculato, circ. 20 mm. long, et 15 mm. lato, supra
pubescente margine denticulato, disco luteo-aurantiaco,
ceterum roseo-tincto.

Indo-China, 1905 (leg. Geo. Bronckart).

+DENDROBIUM Dartoisianum Dc Wildcman, n.sp. Foliis
lanceolatis apice oblique emarginatis, obtusiusculis, circ.
9-10 cm. longis ; tloribus 3-4 racemosis, breviter pedunculatis,
pedicellis bracteatis, circ. 35 cm. longis ; bracteis subobtusis
8 mm. circ. longis; sepalis lineari-lanceolatis, albo-luteis,
patentissimis, planiusculis, subobtusis, circ. 4 cm. longis et
11 mm. latis ; petalis albo-luteis, 4 cm. longis et 15 mm. latis,
contortis, margine undulatis, labello indi%'iso cucuUato,
subacuto, basi albo-luteo versus medium violaceo apice
albo-luteo, intus et extus villoso, mento obtuso.

Indo-China. 1905 (leg. Geo. Bronckart).

to test quality in outdoor fruits grown under-
diverse conditions. Apples grown on walls
often come near to glass-grown fruit in appear-
ance and size. Sun heat, with ample moisture,
are great factors in producing size and colour.
But the size is generally of an artificial nature,
the fruits lacking solidity and keeping qualities.
Sometimes such a commonly highly-flavoured
Apple as Cox's Orange Pippin produces, under
special or high culture, very large fruits, but
greatly lacking in flavour and in juiciness as
compared with fruits of smaller size and much
less highly coloured, grown on a standard or
bush or Espalier tree of considerable size. That
fine product of this superb dessert Apple, Charles
Ross, largely grown on young trees which have
been highly fed for the purpose of securing
large samples, almost like Peasgood's Nonsuch,
has proved most disappointing, because so soft
and flavourless. When presented in moderate
size lately at the R.H.S. Fruit Show from a
less highly-fed tree, the fruits were of very high
excellence, and easily took the first prize in their
class. The same characteristic will be found
in relation to practically every table variety that
is commonly grown. But if high culture and
feeding do produce exceptionally fine exhibi-
tion fruit, how seldom does such fruit keep well?
Comparatively early ripening varieties, if the
fruits be thus large, are soon over and speedily
worthless. Of ordinary late keepers very large
soft fruits are past their best long before fruits
of the same varieties produced under more
ordinary conditions are. So, clearly, huge ex-
amples are not all gain. A. D.

PLANT NOTES,

SUTHERLANDIA 'FRUTESCENS.
This rare Cape shrub has been in full bloom in
the open in South Devon, and is very handsome.
At the first glance its drooping scarlet flowers and
pinnate foliage bring to mind the New Zealand
Clianthus puniceus, but both flowers and leaves
are smaller. The blossoms are followed by in-
flated seed-vessels similar to those of Colutea
arborescens, and in its native country it goes by
the name of the Cape Bladder Senna, It was
introduced into this country more than 100 years
ago, but is rarely seen in cultivation. It may,
however, be grown in the open in South Devon
and Cornwall, and on the undercliff of the Isle of
Wight. It is a rapid grower, and plants may be
had in flower a year after seed-sowing. The
individual flowers are about an inch and a half in
length, and six are generally borne on a raceme.
The leaves are 3 inches in length and are covered
on the lower surface with minute hairs.

RIBES LACUSTRE.

This little-grown species was recently in full
flower, and though by no means so showy as the
better-known R.sanguineum, R.speciosum, and R.
aureum, it is, nevertheless, a very interesting shrub.
It is a native of North America, where it is said to
grow in swamps, but in this country moist ground is
not a necessity for it as it will grow and flower well
in the driest situations. It has slender, spiny, and
bristly branches, and its leaves are intermediate
between those of the Gooseberry and Currant,
and are of a charming light green. The flowers
are rather over a quarter of an inch in diameter
and somewhat cup-shaped, pale yellow in colour,
with a maroon centre from which five red blotches
radiate. From 10 to 20 blossoms are borne on a
raceme, and these are disposed at a few inches
distance along the whole length of the shoots.
The plant will attain a height of from 5 feet to
6 feet, and being a pretty, though not a striking
object when in bloom, should be more extensively
cultivated. The flowers are followed by fruit
about the size of Peas which become light red.
S. W . Fitrjicrbcit, Kingstvear.

TREES AND SHRUBS.

THE SPECIES OF LILAC (SYRINGA).
The following table is extracted from the pub-
lications of M. Henry, late of the Paris Jardin des
Plantes. It applies to the species only not to the varie-
ties, and may be useful now that some of the species
are in flower and the fruits of others are ripening

A. Inflorescences proceeding directly from
the wood of the preceding year without the
intermixture of ordniary leaves . . . . 1

B. Inflorescences borne at the extremity of
leafy shoots of the present year. Flowers pro-
duced markedly later in the season than those

of the preceding group . . . . . . . . 5

I Anthers violet-lilac, ultimately violet ;
capsule warty : Svringa pubescens, Turc-
zaninow.
Anthers yellow ; capsules not warty . . 2.
„ ( Leaves cordiform . . . . . . . . S

1 Leaves not cordiform . . . . . . 4

Blade of the leaves broader than long, or
at least as broad as long; thick, shining on
both surfaces. Flowering very early :
Svringa oblata, Fortune.

Blade of the leaves longer than wide, less

' thick and less firm than in the preceding

I species, not shiny, or shiny only on the

young shoots. Flowers produced earlier

by a week or fortnight ; Svringa vul-

LGARis, Linnaeus.

( Leaves narrow, lanceolate, gradually
lengthening to the tip or sometimes lact-
niate. Flowers with slender tubes, not bent
back or but slightly so at the upper part,
I sometimes fertile in the laciniate leaved-
•< form : Svringa persica, Linnaeus.

Leaves markedly broader than in the pre-
ceding species, oval-acuminate, never laci-
niate. The flower-tube slightly bent at the
upper part ; rarely (quite exceptionally) fer-
ktile: Svringa dubia, Persoon.
f Leaves markedly bi-coloured, whitish or
silvery below, where they have usually a
powdery appearance ; glabrous on tlie same
side, or furnished with very short hairs, only
I visible through a lens . . . . . . . . 6

I Leaves paler underneath, glaucous but
not silvery ; on the same surface are white,
I thinly-disposed hairs, somewhat long and
I quite conspicuous : S. Bretschneideri
I^Hort.

f Flowers produced at the usual season.
Flowers with included anthers and deeply
placed in the tube. Diameter of the limb
of the corolla markedly less than the
length of the tube : S. Josik.ca, Jacquin,
6<fil.

Very late in flowering. Flowers witii

anthers reaching as far as or even beyond

the throat of the tube. Diameter of the

limb fully equal to the length of the tube:

ISvRiNGA Emodi, Wallicli.

PYRUS (M.VLUS) NIEDZWETZKIANA.

DiECK.

In spite of its forbidding name this is one of the
handsomest of our spring-flowering trees, owing to
the profusion of its deep rose-coloured flowers. It
is the subject of a coloured illustration in the
Revue Horticole. The tree was collected near
Kashgar, in Eastern Turkestan, by President
Niedzwetzky. Not only the flowers, but the
young leaves, and even the young wood, are tinged
with red. It is quite hardy.

CRAT.CGUS PYRACANTHA VAR.
LELANDI.
In the Gaidciicis' Chronidc, of April, 1901, I gave
a short description of a group of C. Lelandi grow-
ing in my grounds here, and said much in praise
of its beauty and of the multitude of its bright and
charming vermilion berries. Since I wrote in that
year the group has grown very much and now
measures 24 feet by 15 feet in diameter, and is
1.3 feet high. As an ornamental berried plant few
others are anything like equal to it. C. Lelandi

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

381

is now often seen growing upon walls and as smal.
standards. In the latter state, when nicely berried,
it is very pretty, but in my opinion the proper place
to grow this plant successfully, and where it can be as
fully appreciated as it thoroughly deserves to be,
is upon an open lawn where it can have ample room
to develop and bourgeon out in all directions and
never to allow the gardener's pruning-knife to
<:ome anywhere near it. When anyone has the
good fortune of being in possession of a wild
garden, situate in some rough place or mountain
side, then by all means let there be introduced
a few clumps of C. Lelandi ; and some, say, in the
form of a slielter hedge, and then let them grow
with all the prodigality of untrammelled nature.

The plant is not very particular as to soil, but a
little pains taken in providing for it a well-prepared
bed of soil will eventually be well repaid by a
rich and luxuriant growth. The difference between
■C. pyracantha and C. p. var. Lelandi is that the
latter is evergreen and bears berries of bright
varmilion, whilst the former is deciduous [or
nearly so] and its berries are not so bright in
colour. W. Miller, Bniisuvll.

THE ALPII^ GARDEN.

DIANTHUS FKEYXII.
To an old admirer of the charming little Dian-
thus Freynii it was rather pleasant to come
across it in several exhibits at the Temple
Show, although I have a greater admiration for
the typical rose-coloured plant than for th«
white or whitish forms shown at the Temple.
I look upon this as one of the neatest and pret-
tiest of cur Alpine Pinks, and, although recog-
nised by botanists as but a form of D. glacialis,
it is considerably easier to grow in this climate
than that species. It has been said by some
to be probably the smallest Uianthus we have,
but its flowers are no smaller than some others,
dwarf and compact as is the plant itself. When
in good condition and well established it makes
a dense carpet of small, sharp-pointed, green,
not glaucous foliage, and from this rises a num-
ber of small, bright rose or deep pink-coloured
flowers. It is a choice plant in every way, and
forms one of the most pleasing things we have
in the rock garden. A very able grower of Al-
pines recommends growing it on a dry sandy
bank, but I have found that in such a position
it required a good deal of summer watering,
even when partially shaded from the afternoon
sun, so that I think it should do best with more
summer moisture than it generally receives, al-
though it must have perfect drainage. I found
it easy to grow in my former garden, and I had
a nice little clump of it there with little atten-
tion beyond planting it in a pocket facing south-
east, in sand, peat, and grit, and giving it fre-
quent waterings in summer and occasional top-
dressings of soil. I observed some difference
in the quality of the flowers shown at the
Temple, and it will be well for purchasers to
secure a good form if possible.

ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS

PROSTRATUS.
Unlike the typical Rosemary, this variety is
of prostrate habit and hangs down over the
rocks, making a pretty picture with its pointed
leaves and pleasing little purplish-lilac flowers.
Most of those who have cultivated the variety
find it necessary to propagate it regularly by
means of cuttings, but it is probable that there
are many gardens where it will not be neces-
sary to do this in order to prevent the loss of the
variety in the garden. I have no record of the
origin of the prostrate form of the Rosemary,
which can be grown readily v>-ith us in sandy
soil, but it was distributed from Mr. Smith's
Newry Nursery a year or two ago. S. Aniolt,
Siiiiiivnead, Dumiries.

IVIAGNOLIAS AT ABBOTSBURY

A FEW notes on the genus as grown at Abbots-
bury, Dorset, the seat of Lord Ilchester, may be
interesting.

The following is a complete list of the species
and varieties that are cultivated here — but I accept
no responsibility as to the correctness of the
names of all the varieties, as they are so very
much alike : —

Magnolia acuminata, the Cucumber tree, is a
specimen about 2.5 feet high, and flowers very
freely every year, it is striking when in full leaf.
The variety cordata is only a very small tree at
present.

M. Campbclli. — This is a specimen nearly 40
feet high, and this year it only carried one bloom,
but in the season of 1005 there were 1.30 blooms,
and it was fortunate to finish blooming before any
cold winds or frost destroyed them, as it flowers
as early as the end of February or early part of
March. It can be imagined how beautiful the
plant was when in full flower, the leaves
following afterwards. This species I notice re-
quires a westerly position, and being so early
should be sheltered from the north and north-
east, and, if possible, it should be planted in a
moist position.

M. coiispicna. — This Chinese species is the most
common of all, and our best specimen is about
25 to 30 feet high, with pure white flowers.
Ale.xandrina, I think, must be only a variety of
conspicua, with the petals a trifle darker at the
base.

M. Lmiiei is a hybrid between conspicua and
obovata, taking the character of former and the
colour of the latter. It is very pretty when in
full flower ; our specimens are very small at
present.

M. nigra. — In the Kew Hand List (trees and
shrubs) this is described as a variety of Soulan-
geana. Our specimen is 10 feet high, but is not
nearly such a good shaped tree as Soulangeana,
and the flowers are larger.

M. Norbertii is another hybrid between con-
spicua and obovata, but has not yet flowered
with us.

M. Soulangeana. — This is one our most handsome
trees, the best specimen being 25 feet high and
15 feet through, and carrying hundreds of blooms
every year, thus forming a most striking object.

M. glauca. — Our trees of this species are very
small, the 'best being about 5 feet high. It is
commonly known as the Laurel Magnolia.

M. globosa. — I cannot find any particulars about
this species, either in the Kew Hand List or in
Nicholson's Dictionary, but it is only a small speci-
men, so I fancy it is a local name. It is deciduous
and possibly a form of conspicua.

M. grandiJJora. — This is too well known to re-
quire describing. Our best trees are about IG
feet high ; exoniensis and ferruginea are varieties
of the type.

M. hypoleuca. — This is a handsome tree quite
30 feet high, and in 1904 it bloomed for the first
time ; it is very like tripetala but much larger.
The petals are 9 inches to a foot in length, of a
creamy white, lined with a purple cup about
6 inches in diameter, and very sweet-scented, but
unfortunately it lasts a very short time in bloom.
Our tree has several blooms on it, and if good
this year I will send some to the fortnightly meet-
ing of the Royal Horticultural Society or to the
office of the Gardeners' Chronicle. It is deciduous,
and when in leaf is particularly striking. See
Botanical Magazine, June, 1906, tab. 8,077.

M. macrophylla. — I think this must be a form
of tripetala.

M. obovata. — The flowers are chocolate purple,
very fragrant. Our tree is about 5 to 6 feet high.

M. purpurea. — This is a variety of obovata,
very allied to it.

M. stellata. — In the Gardeners' Chronicle of
April 28 was a plate of the specimen in the
Temperate House at Kew, and it was stated that
it rarely exceeds 4 feet in height. Our best tree
is 11 feet high and 12 feet through, quite in the
open and facing south — and this year it has
carried some thousands of blooms. Not one of
our specimens is less than 7 feet high. As this
species should be found a place in every garden,
facing due south being certainly the best position
in which to plant it.

M. Thompsoniana. — Our specimen is a very old
one indeed, and is over 30 feet high, flowers very
late, and the blooms are very fragrant. It is a
very beautiful tree with its glaucous, semi-
deciduous leaves.

il/. tripetala, the umbrella tree, is beautiful when
in flower and foliage. Our best specimen is about
20 feet high and flowers very freely.

M. Watsoni. — The Keia Guide places this as a
synonym of parviflora, but our trees are quite
diflerent. Watsoui flowers with us in May, and is
very flagrant. The best tree at Abbotsbury is
16 feet high.

M. alba superba and M. amabilis have not yet
flowered.

M. Andre Leroy. — This is very disappointing,
our specimen being 10 feet high. It flowered here
for the first time, but it is a shade darker than
M. conspicua, but not enough to constitute a
distinct form.

M. Kobus. — This is probably after M. CampbeUi,
the earliest flowering Magnolia there is. Our
specimen is 20 feet high, and the small, very
fragrant blossoms reminds one of Tuberoses. It is
very free flowering.

M. Broggoni [?] . — This is also very disappointing,
it being only a slight variety of M. conspicua.

M. fuscata (syn. Micheliafuscata), a low-growing
species, but very interesting with its little yellow
and very sweet blooms.

M. gigantea and M. gracilis have not yet flowered,
but 1 think the latter is a variety of conspicua ;
if anything it has smaller leaves, but it certainly
has the character.

M. parviflora. — This at Abbotsbury is very like
hypoleuca, but has not yet flowered here.

M. E.vnwnth, double. — A variety of grandiflora
and very fragrant.

M. sempeiflorens. — This is a very distinct variety,
but it has yet not flowered, it being only a very
small plant.

M. cordata. — A variety of M. acuminata.

M. compressa, now included under the genus
Michelia, is a very distinct plant, with its dark
shining leaves and glaucous surface.

M. longi/olia is a synonym of glauca, but the
leaves are a trifle longer.

Magnolias are very interesting, and if planted in
sheltered positions with plenty of peat and leaf soil
should do well almost in every county, as they are
fairly hardy, but owing to spring frosts the early
blooms are apt to be destroyed. H. Kempshall,
A bbutsbury .

Making the Best of Things. — An enter-
prising wholesale florist in the vicinity of San
Francisco, wlio had formerly been in the dairy
business, has, says the Weekly Florists' Review,
purchased several cows since the earthquake and
the fire, with the intention of selling milk until
there becomes a demand again for inside stock
of flowers. He is keeping several houses in
order for business that may come later in the
season, and at the present time is feeding his
entire crop of flowers to his cows, to use the
American idiom. They are probably the best fed
animals in America. He cuts about 25 dols. worth
of flowers every day and feeds these regularly to
his four cows in addition to other fodder. How long
the cows will enjoy these dainties is hard to say, but
we are told they seem to appreciate them highly.

382

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 10, 1906.

OAKLEY COURT,
WINDSOR.

NEAR

Oakley Court (fig. 154), the residence of Sir
William Avery, Bart., stands about midway
on the main road between the Royal Borough
and Maidenhead. The River Thames skirts the
whole of its northern boundary, along which is
situated the sequestered walk seen lu fig. 155.
The residence is quite hidden from the main
road, but on the riverside the lawn leads from
the house to the water's edge, with only a few
interruptions, provided by the handsome Coni-
fers seen in figs. 154 and 156. The mansion is a
modern castellated stone and brick building in
the Gothic style. It possesses some fine mul-
lioned windows, and is surmounted by a tower
which affords a fine panorama of the surround-
ing country. From a spot near to the fore-
ground of fig. 155 a good view of Windsor Castle
is obtained. At this point a fishing stage abuts
over the river, and here one can enjoy a delight-
ful view of the Thames, with Windsor in the
distance.

A paddock occupies much of the area between
the main road and the residence, which is ap-
proached through a winding avenue that is lined
with many tall Conifers, most cf which are
handsome examples. Some of the more notable
trees are those of Abies pinsapo, Tinus e.'ccelsa,
Cedrus deodora, Pseudotsuga Douglasi — of
which theBe are several handsome specimens —
Pinus cembra, Abies lasiocarpa, and Cupressus
Lawsoniana. These trees have been planted at
a sufficient width apart to enable them to grow
unrestricted, and as a consequence the trees are
of that beautiful pyramidal shape that gives
many Conifers such an imposing appearance.
Clumps of ornamental trees and shrubs also find
a place in the avenue, v;hicli, viewed from
either end, is of an imposing nature.

Fig. 156 affords a view from the terrace round

Cupressus Lawsonianus erecta viridis, with its
shaft-lilte branches, forms a fine objeet. ^"A•1■
lingtonia, Araucana imbricata. Biota orientalis,
the ornamental Juniperus japonicus, albo varie-
gatus, Cupressus I.ubbi, and Libocedrus decur-

At the rear of the fountain (fig. 156) will be
noticed an archway. This leads for several
hundred feet along what is known as the long
walk — a narrow woodland glen, with archways,
at intervals, trained with Clematis and Ivy, and

Fig. 155. — OAKLEY court: the riverside avenue.

rens are all flourishing, and add grandeur to
the spot. We must not omit to mention an
example of Taxus japonica, which is very fine,
and a very fine Weeping Beech. Another tree

Fig. 154. — OAKLEY court: the residence.

about the mansion. To the left of the fountain
is seen a glimpse of the river, and at the back-
ground and on either side are stately examples
of Conifers. Sequoia sempervirens makes a
fine tree over 80 feet high. The fastigiated

the golden

which called for admiration was
Juniperus chinensis.

Other smaller trees of trained Hollies, Colum-
nar Yews, and Standard Bay Laure's are planted
at points of vantage, but without overcrowding.

overhung for its entire length with woodland
trees. This must not be confuunded with the
walk shown in fig. 155. A narrow parapet
divides this latter walk from the river bank,
which is planted to the water's edge, and on the
opposite side beneath the trees are being estab-
lished colonies of woodland flowers such as
Primroses, Bluebells, and Anemones, with many
clumps of bulbous plants. The trees along this
walk are of various kinds, such as Willow, Lime,
Horse-Chestnut, Oak, Elm, and others.

Although not shown in our illustration, a
summer-house breaks the walk midwaj', and
another is situated near the fishing platform
alluded to. On the opposite side of the resi-
dence is a range of decorative plant houses.
The main entrance and courtyard is here-
abouts, and the courtyard at the time of our
visit was filled with the fragrance of yellow
Wallflowers, that were mingled with blue For-
get-me-Not'S, a very pleasing combination. The
plant-houses form a covered way to the drawing-
room.

The first two are utilised as greenhouses, and
are known as the " show " houses. At the time
of our visit they were bright with Cinerarias,
Primulas, Schizanthus, Pelargoniums, and other
showy greenhouse flowers. The scarlet Paul
Crampelt Pelargonium was very fine, and there
were' some good specimens of the new Rehmannid
angulata. Another good zonal Pelargonium
seen was Master Eric. It was raised in these
gardens, where it is much grown. It is an ad-
mirable winter flowering variety, and is e.\cellent
for summer bedding purposes. The large,
showy trusses of flowers are a shade of pink.
The greenhouses lead into £ small Palm house,
and next to this is a compartment entirely filled
with Crotons. Beyond the Crocon house is the
stove house, up the roof of which are trained
climbing plants, including a fine specimen of
the yellow Allamanda Henderson!.

Some well-grown plants of Clerodendron Bal-
fourianum were also seen, with the usual array
of ornamental foliage, and decorative plants of
a heat-loving nature.

A door from the stove leads through a cool
Fernery into a delightful winter garden. At the

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

383

far end are the casement windows of the draw-
ing-room, and when one steps from this cham-
ber info the cool, delightful retreat of the winter
garden the effect is charming. A fountain dis-
plays its stream of water and around is a setting
of plants, some of which trail over into the
basin beneath. In the centre of the building is
a raised portion of rockwork up which one may
clamber, and on the top find bowers with seats,
beneath a setting of Palms, Ferns and flowering
plants, with Solanum jasminoides, the varie-
gated Cobaea scandens, Ficus repens, and other
climbers forming a drapery from the roof. The
corridors and nooks around are brightened with
flowering plants, and up the slopes of the
rockery are Ferns, Mosses, and many trailing
subjects. The whoie is transformed into a fairy
palace at night-time by the aid of electric lamps,
which light up innumerable recesses a-nd nooks.
Among the plants was a specimen of Encepha-
lartos villosus carrying a fine cone.

Numerous flower beds are disposed around
the terrace and on the lawns, which, early
in May, were filled with Wallflowers, Violas,
Anemones, and other spring bedding sub-
jects. It was too late to enjoy the spring
bulbous plants, which are plentifully planted
in the beds and borders. If we retrace our
steps up the main drive and turn to the left,
past the top of the paddock, we shall arrive
at the gardens proper, wherein are found
the fruit and kitchen quarters, with the fruit
houses, i&c. On the way is a pleasing piece of
landscape in the form of a wide dell, which
leads round to the lawns on the riverside. The
roadside to the left has been planted with rows
of choice Conifers, which succeed so well here ;
and these in time will quite separate the pad-
dock from the more ornamental grounds. Our
walk leads us past the gardener's house and the
bothy (fig. 157). The gardener's house is seen
to the left, with the young gardeners' quarters
in the background. This latter building is
superior to the standard of accommodation usu-
ally apportioned to the garden staff, as tbo

chimney corners. A spacious mess room is to
the left of the billiard room, and on the right
are the sleeping quarters, which h.we been
made very comfortable.
Running about parallel with the river is a

Court Scarlet, a variety which originated in
these gardens. Pits around were filled with
Herbaceous Calceolarias, show Pelargoniums,
Freesias, &c. The other two pits are devoted
to Melons. Five houses are utilised for Melon

Fig. 157. — THE g.\rdener's house and the bothy .\t o.\kley court.

range of fruit houses about 300 feet long, that
is backed by a tall wall, to the rear of which are
Mushroom-houses and other structures. The
glass range is divided into compartments, which

Fig. 156. — view of the fountain from the terrace at oakley court.

vic-w of the exterior betokens, and an inspection
of the interior quite confirms the good opinion.
The central gabled portion is the gardeners'
library and billiard room, which has a comfort-
able interior with parquet flooring and cosy

form vineries. Peach-houses, rosaries, stove,
greenhouse, &c. At right angles to the range
are three light pits. The first is devoted to the
culture of Carnations, principally of the Souve-
nir de la Malmaison type, including Oakley

growing, and the plants were seen in all stages.
They were heavily cropped, and in perfect health.
The varieties grown are Hero of Lockinge, Vic-
tory of Bath—" Oakley Court variety "—a selec.
tion ; Royal Favourite and Ringleader. The
central pit leads from the stove quarter of the
range, in which we noticed some well-grown
Caladiums and Gloxinias. The ornamental-
fruited Rivinia was flowering in this house. This
is found very useful for decorating the conserva-
tories later, when the long racemes of berries
are coloured brilliant scarlet. Besides Melons,,
much glass is devoted to the culture of Nec-
tarines, Peaches, Figs, Grapes, Tomatos,.
Strawberries, &c. The famous Lockie's Perfec-
tion Cucumber was raised in a small pit at
Oakley Court. The structure is still in good
working order and, at the time of our visit,
had just been cleared of a crop of Veitch's
French Climbing Beans, that had been
planted in boxes and trained up the roof,
giving splendid results — picking being just
finished. A river-side residence would be in-
complete without its boat-house, and this i.?
found useful for other purposes than that of
storing boats, for we saw it filled with shrubs-
that had been forced, and which were thus
being gradually hardened before their final shift
out-of-door.

In addition to other quarters provided for
vegetable growing is a walled-in kitchen garden,,
wherein is a fountain in the central walk, and
some well-stocked borders of herbaceous
plants, and large beds of Roses. These flower-
beds and borders are valuable for furnishing a
supply of blooms for cutting, and they obviate
the necessity of robbing those in the ornamental
grounds. Rows of all the usual culinary vege-
tables, including Asparagus, looked in a
healthy and promising condition, and the
favourable appearance of the hardy fruit trees
betokened the all-round capabilities of the head
gardener, Mr. Geo. F. Cooper, to whom we
are indebted for our tour of inspection. The
illustrations are from photographs by Mr. J-
Gregory.

384

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1906.

VEGETABLES.

ASPARAGUS.

I AM sending you a sample of Asparagus,
grown under the most ordinary conditions, such
as the garden cultivation of the Potato and with
no more manure.

1 have four rows, two of them were sown five
years since, and have never been transplanted.
The other two rows were made by thinnings
from the two rows that were sown. Drills were
•drawn out in the same manner as for Potatos,
but deeper, and the young plants were planted
in the bottom of the drills. The drills were for
the time left open until the young plants were
well up, when they were ultimately filled in by
hoeing, &c., to keep clear of weeds. They are
grown in single rows some distance from each
other, with crops between. The soil is light,
sandy, and shallow, resting on red sand, which
is only 12 inches or 14 inches deep. I discon-
tinue cutting by the middle of June, that the
tops msy have good time to mature the crowns for
the following year. John Garland, Broadclyst,
Devon. [Exceedingly good produce. — Ed.]

IMMATURE SEED POTATOS.

There are still heard many complaints as to
the poor growth seen on many breadths of Po-
tatos, arising, as seems now to be satisfactorily
shown, from over maturat'on of tubers, thus ren-
dering them, if good for food, at least much
less fitted for reproductive purposes. Permit
me to invite growers, who have any old tubers
unplanted, whilst there is yet ample time, either
to plant those at the end of the month, to have
the tops green and killed by frost in October,
■or to lift a few roofs of any one or more varie-
ties whilst the tops are green and the tuber
skins tender, the tubers also being full of sap,
storing these immature tubers in the ordinary
■way in shallow boxes. Next spring plant them
side by side with seed tubers fully matured of
the same varieties. Only one or two experi-
ments so far have been made, the completest
being, perhaps, those of Messrs. Sutton & Sons,
Reading, and at the Reading College by Mr.
C Foster ; and, so far, in each case, the imma-
ture tuber growth greatly excels that from the
fully ripened tubers. A. D.

PARSLEY AS AN EXHIBITED VEGE-
TABLE.

Is not the difficulty raised by Mr. J. A.
Simpson with reference to the place of Parsley
in vegetable collections rather far fetched? The
use of Parsley as a carpet for show vegetables
is so common that no one would think of
regarding it as a competing vegetable. Still
farther as it is a flavouring herb, and not served
to table as a cooked dish, no one seems to
regard it in the same category as are ordinary
vegetables. At the great exhibition at Edin-
burgh last September, whilst Parsley was com-
monly employed as a carpet for other products,
no one included it in pots or otherwise as a
competing item in any collection. It is not
possible to conceive of any judges who would
■disqualify a collection of vegetables because
Parsley was used as a carpet, thus making one
item more than was required by the schedule.
A. D.

I MAY inform Mr. A. Simpson that I did not
overlook the fact that Parsley is used for garnish-
ing vegetables, not only on this side of the Border,
but so far as I have been able to observe it has
been largely, and I think rightly, used by our
Scotch friends in Scotland. It is somewhat out of
place to consider Parsley that is used for garnishing

purposes only, as a vegetable. "With the aid of
Parsley, collections of vegetables can be made to
look much more attractive to the public, and
as this is generally allowed there is no reason why
any exhibitor should be debarred from using it.
It would be just as reasonable to argue that in the
case of table plants, for instance, Selaginella, or
any other suitable creeper, must not be allowed
for surfacing the pots. W. J. Pritchard, Ehirie.

ELLAM'S CABBAGE.
I HAVE grown this variety for a good many
years, alwa3's depending on it for early cuttings,
but every year we had a good many plants run
to seed. Another variety, Suttons' April, was
tried by the side of it, and I have now discarded
Ellam's in favour of "April." If j'our corre-
spondent, Mr. Mayne, would try Suttons' April
and Flower of -Spring he would have no cause
to regret the change. I have grown this year
600 plants of "April" and 2,800 plants of
Flower of Spring, and not a single plant has
run to seed. A few weeks back Mr. A. Dean,
when walking over the bed, said, "If you have
not any boated you have one rogue amongst
them," which tl:e:e certainly was, but only one
out of 3,400 ! I always make two sowings, one in
the first and another in the third wesk of August,
and find these dates quite early enough for this
locality. /. B., Hack-wood Park Gardens,
Basingstoke.

I HAVE been especially interested by the cor-
respondence in the Gardeners' Chronicle during
the past few weeks, for Ellam's Early Dwarf
Cabbage first came to light (so to speak) in these
gardens. As foreman here for the past four
years, I have particularly noticed in all the
plots allotted to this spring Cabbage— and in
passing I would say only Ellam's Early is
grown— that not a single plant has bolted.
In conversation last week with one of the
old "hands" in the kitchen garden, who was
with the late Mr. Ellam at Bodorgan, he told
me they had never had a spring Cabbage to
surpass it for non-bolting. I was pleased to
read Mr. Beckett's notes in praise of the
same, and with him I agree as to the non-
bolting character of the true Ellam's Early
Dwarf Cabbage. G. S. Jordan, Bodorgan Gar-
dens, Anglesey, N. Wales.

I FULLY endorse Mr. Beckett's remarks with
reference to the good qualities of Ellam's Early
Dwarf Cabbage. I find it second to none for
early supply. It has good flavour, and is re-
markable for its freedom from running to seed.
Flower of Spring follows Ellam's in succession,
and is much larger. But for early supply the
true variety Ellam's Early Dwarf will be diffi-
cult to excel. L. E. Walker, Bar I on Hall Gar-
dens, Bury St. Edmunds.

CULTUgfAL MEMORANDA.

M.\RANTA TIGRINA.
This is a desirable addition to the list of ornamen-
tal leaved sto\ e plants. It is of compact habit and
sturdy growth, producing ovate lanceolate leaves —
from 9 to 12 inches high — on petioles, sheathing
for their entire length. The leaf-blades are of a
velvety, lustrous, grass-green colour, strikingly
marked on each side of a grey midrib, with broad
transverse bars of rich deep olive green, the
marking dividing near the undulate margins
into two tips. This, like all the varieties of
the Maranta, requires to be grown in a warm and
moist atmosphere during active growth, and to
be afforded a slight shading during the heat of the
day. H. W . Ward. Rayleigh.

The Week's Work.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.
Primulas. — The secret of success in Primula
culture rests in the plants making steady and
continuous growth throughout the whole period
of their development. They must suffer no
check through either an excess of water or
drought, through repotting the plants before
they need it, or leaving the small plants too
long in a position that causes the foliage to
become drawn. Mistakes of the nature indicated
above would surely interfere with the progress
of the plants, and when once Primulas have re-
ceived a check they do not readily start again.
Extremes of temperature should be avoided ;
coolness in summer is desirable, and, when
established, the frame lights may be removed at
night when the dews are most refreshing. Just
enough warmth is required in winter to keep the
air moving and the roots active. Some growers,
with a view to producing large flowering plants,
sow seeds in September of the previous year ;
others sow early in the year, and grow on in
heat for two or three months to have them
strong by May (though they are sometimes weak).
But if sown in April or early in May, and care-
ful attention be given to the plants, they can be
had in the best form by November and onwards,
and will excel in competition those that are at
least six months older. Now that pits and
frames are capable of affording ample room,
there is no need for overcrowding the plants.

Preparing P'lants for use in Winter Decorations.
— Where there is a large demand for plants for
house decoration through the winter months,
the present time affords an opportunity to con^
sider the stock of plants suitable for this pur-
pose. Selected plants of Codijeums (Crotons),
especially those with narrow leaves, should be
grown in 5 and 6 inch pots, elevating the plants
close to the glass, in which position they will
grow well and develop high colouring. Pan-
danus Veitchii, Panax Victoria, Dracaenas
(especially those of the green-leafed section),
Asparagus plumosus, Gesneras (the latter are
highly ornamental objects in the winter months)
are all useful subjects, while there are many
varieties of Ferns which may be selected, in-
cluding Adiantum gracillimum, A. cuneatum
elegans, and Nephrolepis davallioides furcans,
the latter especially suited for putting into large
vases. .'^elaginellas and small seedling Ferns
should be grown in quantity for surfacing when
plants are used singly in vases. Much anxiety
will be averted by looking ahead, and preparing
whilst there is good time for the requirements
of the establishment later in the year.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas,
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

Melons. — The last of the earliest batch are
now ripening off, and any which are still left in
the house and show signs of cracking round
the stalk may be cut and put on a dry, sunny
shelf to properly finish before using them for
dessert. Ringleader has done splendidly here
this season, and is fully three weeks in advance
of " Earl's Favourite " in time of ripening.
These two varieties have green-flesh, and pos-
sess exquisite flavour, but if I had to grow one
sort only, I should give " Ringleader " prefer-
ence. This variety has a strong constitution,
the flowers set very freely, and the fruit is well
netted. Earl's Favourite forms a good succes-
fcion, and its fruit can be kept in good condition
for a considerable time, when fully lipe, if
placed in the fruit room. It is much easier now
to keep up a constant supply of good flavoured
fruits than earlier in the year. The cultivator
should have young plants ready for filling
vacancies, as they occur, taking away the ex-
hausted soil and replacing it with rough turfy
loam, lime scraps, and a little bone meal. When
this compost has been in the house for one day
and night, it will be in a fit condition for receiv.
ing the young plants. The plants grow much
better if planted out as soon as they have made
two to three leaves each ; when left too long
in the seedling pots, the roots becomes matted
together, and they never seem perfectly to get
over the check. Plants that are carrying heavy
crops and are growing in a limited space should
be given a plentiful supply of weak liquid

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

385

manure, at least three times a week, especially
when the fruits are swelling. The house should
be closed each afternoon with plenty of atmo-
spheric moisture. But houses in which the
fruits have reached their full size and are ap-
proaching the ripening stage, must be more
freely ventilated during bright days, and the
atmosphere should be kept in a less moist con-
dition.

]\lelons in Vrames. — Plants that were put out
at the beginning of last month will have made a
considerable amount of growth. When three
or four fruits have set on each plant and are
swe'ling away, the remaining lateral growths
should be cut out. As soon as the bottom heat
is found to be declining, let the frames be re-
lined with long litter and grass from the lawn
cuttings. Give almost daily attention to pinch-
ing the shoots, and also to the watering and
syringing of the plants. The last sowing should
now be made, as it is seldom that fruit ripened
late in the season is of much value for dessert,
though they may be utilised in the kitchen.
Plants from this late sowing must be encour-
aged to make strong, sturdy growth. Ventilate
the structure freely, and do not at first employ
much artificial heat.

THE FLOWER GAEDEN.

By Hugh .\. Pettigrew, Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.
Barycls of Floiiiers. — Now that the stress of
bedding-out and the furnishing of vases is nearly
if not entirely completed, time might be found to
devote to a less familiar mode of flower garden
decoration, viz., barrel gardening. Those who
have not employed this style of garden adorn-
ment will be agreeably surprised at the very
pretty effects that can be produced by it if
judiciously carried out. Petroleum barrels, with
the insides burnt out sufficiently to get rid of the
oil in the wood, are admirable for the purpose,
though it is possible to obtain from certain firms
barrels specially constructed. All that is requi-
site in preparing the barrels is to ensure good
drainage by boring holes at the bottom and lay-
ing 2 or 3 inches of rough material to prevent
these holes becoming clogged, and boring four
to six tiers of holes all round the barrel in which
to insert the plants for covering the roots. A
drain pipe or a wire cage in the centre reduces the
amount of soil which otherwise — and unneces-
sarily— would have to be used for filling the
barrels. The size of the holes and the number of
them depends upon the plants it is intended to
use ; but the important point is to completely
clothe the barrel from top to bottom. As to
suitable plants for this kind of work, many will
readily occur to the reader as being appropriate,
but, naturally, those of a drooping, trailing habit
are the best. Barrels of flowers tastefully de-
signed, and disposed about a flower garden, or
placed to make a feature in a particular portion
of the garden, never fail to elicit admiration,
and become a source of pleasure and attraction.
A novel and charming way of using barrels is to
create columns of flowers, by placing several on
the top of each other. Three barrels placed on
end, one upon the other, make a column fully
12 feet in height. In these gardens last year two
columns constructed thus were planted with
Souvenir de Charles Turner Ivy-leaved Pelar-
gonium. In the autumn the barrels, which were
previously painted green, were completely hid-
den with the foliage and flowers. The effect was
not only novel, but exceedingly attractive, and
was greatly admired. The barrels for the
columns should be made up, planted, and re-
main in the position in which they are first
placed. The lowest barrel is filled completely
with soil, always using a compost of rich friable
loam, leaf-mould, and cow manure. The barrel
above has a narrow drain pipe running through
to the top of the lowest barrel, while the third
and top one has two pipes, one connecting with
the pipe in the second barrel, while the other
simply leads to the surface of the second barrel.
By means of these various drain pipes water can
be freely conducted to each, an item most essen-
tial to the success of this phase of gardening.

"set out" are bound to suffer more or less dur-
ing hot periods, and to help them to overcome
this nothing is better than the practice of
" puddling " the plants before planting. A pre-
paration of lime, soot, clay and water is
made to the consistency of paint, and the roots
and stems of the young plants are dipped into
this before planting. Treated in this manner,
the plants will suffer less check, and conse-
quently they will start into growth earlier. After
watering crops of the above description it is a
good practice to run the hoe amongst the plants
as soon as possible to prevent the soil becoming
caked. Peas will require much water both at
the root and on the foliage, and a mulching of
long litter should be applied on light, porous
soils. Do not apply driblets of water, but
thorough soakings.

Onions, Leeks, and Celery intended for special
purposes should receive great care, not only in
watering, but in every detail in their cultiva-
tion. While all of these crops require plenty of
moisture, they may be easily spoiled by stagna-
tion, and, the ground being heavily manured, it
will not be so likely to get dry except on the
surface, which can easily be kept right by
affording dampings in the evenings after warm
days. Therefore, avoid giving too much water
to these crops. Rain water should be used when
possible, and if clear soot water is added to it
so much the better ; but be careful that all the
sediment of soot is drained off before using.
Seedling Onions sown in the open in the spring
will require the soil between the rows to be kept
loose and clear of weeds. It is a common practice
to thin out the plants to 4 or 5 inches, but this is
not necessary when large ones are also grown as
a separate crop. The seedlings usually get partly
thinned by daily drawings for use in the house,
and even if they remain fairly thick they will
finish up perfectly well, and of a proper size to
keep well. For "some years I have given up
thinning to anv great extent, and it is certainly
more profitable not to thin severely unless a few
bulbs are wanted much larger than the rest.
The Onion Fly will be in full flight now, and to
prevent them damaging the crops soak a quan-
tity of sand or sifted charcoal in paraflRn, and
sow the charcoal twice each week over the plants
when the dew is on them to prevent the fly
alighting on the plants. The same remedy may
with advantage be applied to Celery before it
becomes affected with the Celery Fly.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of

Portland, Welbeck .\bbey, Notts.

IV'alcring. — Now that the weather has changed

for the better, the affording of water to crops

must be given dail}' consideration. Plants newly

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Bush and Pyramid Trees.— Wheie there is
black aphis on the foliage this should be
cleaned off at once with a solution of Quassia
Extract, applied with strong force from the
garden engine. Early varieties may be thinned,
especially such varieties as Beauty of Bath, Irish
Peach, Lady Sudeley, and Mr. Gladstone. The
last-named variety ripens very early, and if
thinned early the fruits attain to a fair size.
Early Harvest is also a very good early variety,
and is, moreover, a free grower. Culinary vane-
ties are all the better if thinned early, especially
such large-growing varieties as Lord Suffield,
Keswick Codlin, Lord Grosvenor, Domino,
and Frogmore Prolific. These are pretty free
growers that set the fruits well, and are bearing
good crops this season. When attending to the
trees be ever on the alert for American Blight,
and have a brush and some nicotine soap ready
into which a small quantity of petroleum has
been put. When discovered, brush hard with this
preparation, and it will destroy the pest. By
persistent attention the pest may be eradicated
from the garden.

Tieing and A'aiiing.— trees are now growing
very rapidly, and if the stopping and disbudding
has been carried out, the remaining shoots will
have gained considerable strength, and should
be either tied or nailed to the wall or wire, and
in the direction they are intended to go. On
those trees that have filled their allotted space
the branches may be stopped, but upon newly-
planted or smaller trees they should be nailed in
their whole length. Cordon. Cherries and Pears
may have the points nailed in their whole length,
pinching out the point when it has reached the
top of the wall. Shoots coming from the lower
branches and that are strong should be retained
in order to furnish bare places that may exist.

Alpine Strawberries. — These and the perpetual
fruiting varieties may be planted out at 6 to 9

inches apart on a partially shaded border. If the
soil is of a heav}' character mix with it some
lighter materials. At a later period the plants
may be put out at 1 foot apart in the frinting
quarters. Those plants that are fruiting .should
be afforded a little manure water occasionally,
taking care not to wet the foliage with it. A
little soot water may be applied to the roots
occasionally. If fruit is desired later, remove
all the flowers, as these plants are capable of
throwing up fresh flowers until autumn.

Tiie Raspberry-Blackberry. — The Mahdi is a
great bearer, and should be treated liberally
when fruiting heavily. Thin out the young
growths at the stool similar to Raspberries,
retaining only those that are required for
another season. These fruits usually commence
to ripen in July, and continue for several weeks.
The Japanese Wineberry, Loganberry, &c., re-
quire similar cultivation, but those which are
strongest-growing must be most teverily pruned.

Eleeagnus edtilis (longipes) is sometimes used
for the making of preserves. The trees should
be given manure water.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By \V. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Tkevor Lawrence.
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Deiidrobiums. — Such Dendrobiums as D. Wardi-
anura and D. crassinode have now made con-
siderable progress with their new growths, which
in turn are producing new roots from their swollen
base. Any of these plants which have filled their
pots or pans with roots may now be afforded
more room. Avoid causing them any unnecessary
disturbance ; carefully break the old pot from each
plant and put the roots and drainage material
just as they are into a larger pot, into which addi-
tional drainage material has already been placed ;
fill up the remaining space with a mixture of fibrous
peat, sphagnum moss, and small crocks. Afford the
plants plenty of water until the pseudo-bulbs are
fully matured. A light and well-ventilated
position near to the root gla.ss in the intermediate
house is the best place for them.

Cypripedhtms. — Cypripediums that require most
heat, as C. Lawrenceanum, C. Rothschildianum.
C. Stonei, C. Curtisii, C. grande, C. superciliare,
and many others which have finished blooming
may require more root room, or to be divided
to increase the stock. None of these plants
should be permitted to continue in a pot-bound
condition. The pots should be made about one-
third full of drainage material, and the potting
compost may consist of peat, fibrous loam,
sphagnum moss, and some broken crocks. Keep
the plants near the roof glass on the shadiest
side of the house. For a few weeks after re-
potting keep the compost only jnst moist ; a light
spraying overhead several times a day will induce
growth, and keep the foliage fresh and clean.
C. superbiens (Veitchii), an old but handsome
species, now in bloom, prefers a well-shaded
position in the Cattleya house, and should not be
allowed to become dry at the roots at any time.

Cyt'ripediiims, Syc. in Intermediate House. — All
of the cooler growing Cypripediums in the
intermediate house are now iir full growth,
and the plants should be well supplied with
water. Judicious spraying overhead is bene-
ficial to them, and their immediate surroundings
should be kept moist at all times. The shade-
loving BoUeas, Pescatoreas and others of that
category, require the same kind of treatment.
These rare species will at no time successfully
stand the least direct and clear sunshine.

Insect Pests. — Thrips and red spider not only
disfigure the foliage of the plants, but are almost
fatal to some species. At this season thrips multi-
ply very rapidly, and must be kept in check.
The remedy against them is to vaporise the houses
periodically, there being several liquid preparations
frequently advertised in the Gnidencrs' Chronidc.
Previous to using the vaporiser, close the house
early, keep the shadings down if the sun is bright,
and cause the atmosphere to become moist, as the
fumes will then be the more effectual. Should
red spider make its appearance, thoroughly sponge
the leaves, stems, and pseudo-bulbs with some
safe insecticide. Various scale insects should be
constantly sought after and eradicated with brush
and sponge. Woodlice may easily be trapped by
laying pieces of Potato or Carrot upon the com-
post, which should be constantly _ examined.
Numbers of woodlice may also be caught by watch-
ing the surface of the compost shortly after tht
plants have been watered.

386

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE,

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden,
W.C.

■Letters for Publication, as well as specimens ami plants

for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Covununications should be written on one side only of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be
piinted, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused conimunicalions or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not hold himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

•illustrations,— The Editor will be glad to receive and to select
photographs or dratvings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Corrfs/io;:(f£n^5 sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragrapiis they wish the Editor to see.

Local ?^e-ws,— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
tin- Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

(Roy. Hort. Soc. Exhibition of
Table Decorations, &c.
Yorkshire Gala, York (3 days).

THURSDAY, June 21 Linnean Soc. meet.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 61'3'-

AcTUAL Temperatures: —

houDOti.— Wednesday, June 13 (6 p.m.): Max. 62°; Min.
49".
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London.— r/iiiisda)', June 14
(10 A.M.): Bar., 30.2; Temp., 55°; Weather—
Overcast.

Provinces.— li'crfiicsrfiy, June 13 (6 p.m.) : Max. 66°
South-west Ireland ; Min. 63° North Ireland.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY—

Palms, Plants, Standard Bays, Ferns, &c., at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 1.

■FRIDAY-

Imported and Established Orchids in variety, at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morris, at 1.

Now that many of our plant-
Vegetation igying readers are contemplat-

High Alps, '"g ^ ^'5'' '° *h^ ■'^'P^ °^ Swit-
zerland or Tyrol they may be
interested in knowing that M. Ch. Flahault
has recently contributed to the Revue Men-
siielle du Club Alpin Francais an interesting
paper on Les hauts sommets et la vie vegi-
tale. This paper is of interest not only to
those fortunate people who can visit the Alps
at this season, but also to those stay-at-home
gardeners who are interested in the culture
of alpine-plants.

The Professor describes tlie conditions to
\vhich the vegetation of the High Alps is
.subjected as those of intense light, of
drought, low temperatures, and constant ex-
tremes. The soil, frozen for months, be-
comes absolutely dry, and woody forms are
soon reduced to a mere network of very fine
branches penetrating into the surface of the
soil or into moss.

It is a curious instance of adaptation to
circumstances that certain plants which in the
plains flower and fruit in the course of a few
weeks are not able to do so in the short grow-
ing season of the mountains. Many species
even acquire the faculty of perpetuating
themselves without forming flowers, and in-
crease by means of the vegetative apparatus
and become perennials. Poa annua, for in-
stance, belies its name and becomes piopa-
gated by its vegetative organs.

The exterior characteristics of plants at
high elevations also show how they adapt
themselves to the climate. Thus there are
forms, such as Carex, with close tufts of
foliage, whose shoots are protected by the
old leaves, or Grasses (Nardus stricta), dwarf
Rushes (Juncus trifidus), all with deeply-
penetrating roots.

Plants of tlie snowy regions are of two
principal forms : ist — Those producing long
stolons that thread their way between the
stones and soon bear leaf-buds terminated by
flowers such as Thlaspi rotundifolium,
Hutchinsia alpina, Cerastium alpinum, etc.
2nd — Those which form a mass of shoots
springing from the root, each tuft attached
to the humus below the gravel by an often
long and solid root as Saxifraga oppositi-
folia, Linaria alpina, Alsine recurva, Galium
helveticum.

The rock-flora shows a third type. The
plants are tufted, the stems short, the leaves
small and close. The branches are usually
numerous and leafy, united into compact
rosettes. The " cushion " plants form
hemispherical masses fixed to the rock
by a root creeping along into the
fissures. The numerous branches, pressed
closely together, all keep at about the same
level, only the flowers or the fruits rising
above them : .Silene acaulis, Saxifraga
exarata, bryoides, muscoides, and csesia,
Draba pyrenaica, Androsace helvetica, im-
bricata, etc., are t)'pical examples. Then
there are the Composites, Lobeliacese, and
Violets of the .-Xndes, the Veronicas, Myoso-
tis, and Composites of New Zealand. These
" cushions " are often large in diameter, but
quite regular in form ; they leave no parts
exposed to winds, the dead leaves die round
the shoots, remaining moist for weeks, ab-
sorbing by capillary action the water which
rises to the surface of the soil and storing it
as a sponge would do. Many of these " snow
plants," like the all-familiar Edelweiss, have
leaves covered with felt-like down, which
still further checks their transpiration.
Androsace pubescens and others ; the Worm-
woods known as " Genepis," the black
Achilleas and Myosotis of the High .Mps
(Eritrichium nanum) are examples. M.
Flahault says, in conclusion, that the
vegetation of the snowy zone is regulated by
the dryness of the climate, the intensitv of
light and heat-radiations, and the shortness
of the season of growth. Woody forms,
gradually dwindling, are absent from tin-
snowy regions. The dryness induces a
weakly development of the branches, which
are often numerous but short. Almost all
the species are perennial ; capable of passing-
one year or more without forming seed or
even flowers.

Plants are protected in various ways from
excessive transpiration and from drought,
which might injure them in the peculiar cir-
cumstances under which they live ; various
arrangements enable them to manage with
economy the small amount of water that they
can obtain during the growing season.
Cold alone seems not sufficient to destroy
vegetation, even in Eastern Siberia, where
temperatures have been recorded still lower
than those of the high mountains. The flora
of high elevations is, indeed, far richer than
at first sight appears to be the case.

Like causes produce like effects, and the

climate common to the high altitudes of the
entire world results in the production of simi-
lar vegetable-forms, although these may
belong to widely differing natural orders.
Alpine species have not all the same origin ;
the actual flora of each mountainous district
is the result of various migrations, the suc-
cession of which, and even the details, can
be ascertained as regards the chief European
mountains, though but little is known of
those in other parts of the world.

Supplementary Illustration. — Bulbous
Irises are distinct enough in their mode of growth
to have received a separate generic name Xiphion,
but the flowers are so unmistakably those of Iris
that it seems a pity to place them in a separate
genus, though it is very convenient to consider
them as forming a sub-division. There are two
groups of these Irises, the one with tall stems, the
other like the beautiful I. reticulata with no con-
spicuous stems. The so-called English Irises are
forms of I . xiphoides, the Spanish Irises of I. xiphion.
The Spanish Irises flower earlier than the English
Irises, w-hich latter require more moisture in the
growing season. Lynch, in his excellent Book of
the Iris, tells us that whilst in a dry season the
Spanish Iris may do well, the English Iris may
fail altogether. Any good garden soil seems to
suit them, but a sunny position is essential. Our
illustration is taken from a bed in the Royal
Gardens, Kew.

The Journal of the Royal Horticul-
tural Society. — The contents of the 30th
volume, this time of small dimensions, include the
report of the Fruit Growing Conference last
October ; table of acreage under fruit cultivation
in England, Wales, and Scotland (with map) ;
varieties of fruits recommended by the R.H.S. ;
fruits certified by the R.H.S. since 1883; and
various articles on fruit culture, packing, and
crystallisation. The publication will be of great
value to those interested in fruit culture who w-ill
be glad to have in compact form much that has
already appeared in the Press.

Linnean Society. — There will be a meeting
on Tuesday, June 21, at 8 p.m., when the follow-
ing papers will be read: — 1, "On the Botany of
Southern Rhodesia," by Miss L. S.Gibbs, F.L.S. ;
2, "On the Authentic Portraits of Linnasus "
(lantern slides), by Mr. W. Carruthers, F.R.S.,
F.L.S. ; 3, "Plantse novae Daweanae in Uganda
lectse," by Dr. Otto Staff, F.L.S. ; 4, " On the
Genitalia of Diptera," by Mr. W. Wesche.

Small Holdings. — From the 5th to the 8th
inst., inclusive, separate deputations of the Depart-
mental Committee appointed by the President of the
Board of Agriculture and Fisheries to enquire into
the subject of small holdings visited certain
typical districts, including small holdings near
Blairgowrie, Evesham, Bromsgrove, Nordelph and
those of the South Lincolnshire and Norfolk Small
Holdings Associations. The evidence of Mr. F.
Impev, of Longbridge, Birmingham, was taken at
Worcester. The deputation to Scotland held
sittings at Blairgowrie, Perth, and Edinburgh.
The witnesses in attendance were Mr. J. M.
Hodge and J. Stewart, of Blairgowrie; Mr. J.
M. Miller and Mr. J. Nicolson, of Caithness-
shire ; Mr. G. Muirhead, Fochabers, Morayshire ;
Sir A. J. Campbell-Ordes, Bart., of North Uist
and Argyllshire ; Mr. J. Meiklejohn, Ross-shire;
Mr. J. Pollock, Renfrewshire; " Mr. G. Mac
Gregor, the Secretary of the Congested Districts
Board ; Mr. Jas. Macdonald, Secretary of the
Highland and Agricultural Society ; and Messrs.
G. Constable (Peebles-shire), and J. Drvsdale
Stirlingshire), of the Scottish Chamber of Agri-
(culture.

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

387

Flowers in Season. — From Robert Veitch
& Son, Exeter, we have received flowers of Rubus
Lucretia, with white flowers resembling those Oi
Rubus deliciosus, and stated to bear excellent
fruits ripening quite a fortnight before other
Blackberries, and with a distinct and most agree-
able flavour. Calceolaria Veitchii, an excellent
robust form which has proved hardy in the West
of England ; it is a hybrid from Calceolaria
plantaginea, raised at the nurseries of Messrs.
Robert Veitch & Sox, Exeter. Buddleia Colvillei,
with beautiful pink flowers in clusters at the end
of the branches. Each flower has a superficial
resemblance to that of Escallonia macrantha ;
the leaves are lanceolate, tapering to both ends,
wrinkled and downy on the under surface. Messrs.
Edwin Hillier & Sons, of Winchester, send us
fine specimens of Abutilon vitifolium, a shrubby
Mallow, with large pale violet flowers. Messrs.
Hillier tell us that the blooms were taken from
a shrub about 12 feet high, growing in the open
border, and apparently quite hardy. We have
figured this plant from Ireland, and have seen it
in the Isle of Wight, but it is satisfactory to hear
that it is hardy in less favoured climates. Messrs.
Kelway & Son, of Langport, send a selection of
their Pyrethrums, single and double, from pure
snow-white to the richest carmine. Remembering
what Pyrethrums used to be, these are indeed
noble flowers. Carl Vogt is a pure white double
variety. Cassiope, single, rich carmine, with a
yellow disc ; Alice, single, rosy lilac ; James Kel-
way, maroon with a yellow disc ; but we cannot
enumerate more of these or we should have
to write a catalogue ; suffice it to say they are
excellent. From Mr. E. B. Gawne, Kentraugh
Nursery, Isle of Man, we have received flowers
of a strain of Calceolarias, some large pips of
florists' Cinerarias, and bright trusses of star
Cinerarias.

Manchester and North of England
Orchid Society. — The committee have much
pleasure in announcing a valuable gift to the
society by Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans,
in the form of a silver cup, valued at 25 guineas,
which is to be competed for by amateur members
of the society during this session. The challenge
cup will be won by the exhibitor who gains the
largest number of points during the session. In
addition to the challenge cup awarded to the
winning amateur, a bonus of £5 will be paid to
the gardener in charge of the winning collection.
W. Thompson, Esq., J. P., of Stone, Stafford-
shire, has kindly offered a similar challenge cup
for the 1907-1908 session. The committee have
much pleasure in announcing that in future all
plants which receive first-class certificates at the
society's meetings shall be painted and kept on
record. This will mean a considerable outlay, but
several gentlemen present at the last committee
meeting started a fund for this purpose.

Sale of the late Mr. Burbidges Library.

— On Saturday, June 9, Messrs. Wilkinson,
SoTHEBY & Hodge sold by auction, at their
rooms in Wellington Street, Strand, the library
of the late Mr. Frederick W. Burbidge, M.A.,
curator of the Botanic Gardens at Trinity Col-
lege, Dublin. The books were put up in 7S
lots, the more important of which, with the
prices realised and names of purchasers, were
as follow:— " Historia Plantarum," by A.
Pinaei, numerous woodcuts of plants, Lugduni,
1561, £1 (Brooks) ; " Rariorum aliquot Stirpium
per Pannoniam, Austriam, &c.," by Car. Clusius,
Antwerp 1583, and " Rariorum per Hispanias
observatorum Historia," 1576, £1 Is. (Wesley) ;
" Cistineae, the Natural Order of Cistus or Rock-
rose," by Robert Sweet, 1825-30, £3 16s.
(Quaritch) ; " The Horticultural Repository,"
by G. Brookshaw, 1823, £2 2s. (Thorp) ; B.
Maund's " Botanic Garden," 13 vols., 1825,

and "The Botanist," 4 vols., 1839, £4 10s.
(Bumpus) ; " Flora Orientalis, sive Enumeratio
Plantarum in Oriente, .Sic," by E. Boissier, 6
vols., Basil, 1867-88, £2 12s. (Horridge) ;
" English Botany, or Coloured Figures of
British Plants, &c.," by J. Sowerby, with occa-
sional remarks by J. E. Smith, vols. 1-31 and
general index, 1790-1814, £14 (Wesley) ; " Stir-
pium lUustrationes," by M. de Lobel, 1655, and
" A New Herball," by R. Dodoens, translated
by H. Dyte, black letter, 1595, £1 5s.
(Quaritch) ; " Thesaurus Literaturae Botanicae,"
by G. A. Pritzel, 1872, and " Pomona Lon-
dimens'is," by W. Hooker, vol. 1, 1818, £2 13s.
(Quaritch) ; " Hortus Floridus," by C. Passasus,
Arnheim, 1614, £5 5s. (Wesley) ; another copy
of the same, on vellum, £10 (Wesley) ; a later
edition of the same, 1616, £5 5s. (Wesley) ;
" Icones Stirpium sen Plantarum," by R.
Dodonaeus, Antwerp, 1591, £1 2s. (Wesley) ; W.
Turner's " Herbal," black letter, imperfect,
1568, £1 3s. (Thorp) ; " Plantarum sen Stirpium
Historia," by M. de Lobel, Antwerp, 1576, £1
13s. (Brooks) ; " Flora, sen de Florum Cultura,
or a complete Florilege," by J. Rea, 1676, and
" Systema Agricultura, the Mystery of Hus-
bandry Discovered," by J. Worlidge, 1687, £1
9s. (Quaritch) ; " Florilegium," by S. Sweertt,
plates coloured by hand, 1612, £1 'l6s. (Maggs) ;
J. Gerarde's " Herball or Generall Historie of
Plantes," first ed., imprinted at London by
John Moreton, 1597, £3 12s. (Edwards) ; " Para-
disi in Sole," by J. Parkinson, 1656, £4 5s.
(Parsons) ; ditto, reprint by Methuen, 1904, £1
18s. (Parsons); "Thesaurus Rei Herbariae Ilor-
tensis Universalis, exhibens figuras Florum,
Herbarum, &c.," 3 vols., 1750-72, £3 16s.
(Thorp) ; "A Monograph of Odontoglossum," by
James Bateman, 30 coloured plates, 1874, £2 10s.
(Hill) ; " Hortus Eystettensis, sive Plantarum
Florum, &., by Basil Besler, Nuremberg, 1613,
£1 5s. (Brooks) ; George Brookshaw's "Pomona
Britaanica," 93 coloured plates, 1812, £4
(Thorp) ; " Hortus Nitidissimis omnem per an-
num superbiens floribus, sive amoenissimorum
florum imagines in publicum ediderunt Joan.
Mich Seligman et Wirsing," 190 coloured plates,
atlas folio, Nuremberg, 1768-86, £4 15s. (Wes-
ley) ; " Plantae selectas quarum imagines pinxit
G. Dion, Ehret, notis illustravit C. J. Trew,"
100 coloured plates, Nuremberg, 1750, £2 6s.
(Parsons); F. Sanders "Reichenbachia," 2
vols., and second series, 2 vols, (together 4
vols.), beautifully coloured plates, 1 vol. bound
in half morocco, the remainder in the original
parts as issued, 1888, atlas folio, £10 5s.
(\\Tieldle).

The Horticultural Club. — At the meeting
on the 12th inst., at which Sir John Llewelyn
presided, Mr. A. E. BROOKE-HnNT spoke on the
question of Agricultural and Horticultural edu-
cation in this country. We shall advert to this
subject in another issue.

The Burbidge Memorial Library. — We

learn that the Board of Trinity College, Dublin,
has voted a grant of £10 towards this object.

American Gooseberry Mildew. — A useful
leaflet on this subject is issued by the Department
of Agricultural and Technical Instruction for
Ireland. The .American mildew (Sphaerotheca
mors-uvae) has been noticed in Kilkenny on the
Red Currant, upon which it first appears as a
flour-like deposit. Any plant showing this disease
should be uprooted and burnt, or, failing this
extreme measure, should be thoroughly sprayed
with potassium sulphide (not sulphate) in the pro-
portion of one ounce to two gallons of water, and
this treatment should be repeated at intervals of a
fortnight. For subsequent sprayings a stronger
solution may be used. Growers in doubt as to the
presence of this or any other disease are invited to
send specimens to the department (Merrion Street,
Dublin) for identification.

Horticultural Society of New York. —

We have received the subjoined circular letter : —
The Horticultural Society of New York proposes
to hold in the early fall of 1907 an International
Conference on Hardiness and Acclimatisation, if
there is sufficient general interest evinced to war-
rant organising such a gathering. I am instructed
by the president and council to ascertain whether
j'our institution would be inclined to support such
a Conference, and whether you would be able to
take part in the deliberations. I need hardly
remind you that the questions proposed are of
supreme importance to horticulturists, and there is
very little, if any, codified matter available in this
country (U.S.A.). The proceedings of the Con-
ference would form the substance of a volume of
memoirs of this society, to be a companion to the
proceedings of the International Conference on
Plant Breeding, held in 1902. Any assistance that
you can give me at this time, suggesting lines for
discussion, together with the names of those whom
you think might be interested, and whom I could
approach, would be greatly appreciated. Leonard
Barron, Secretary.

Society for Horticultural Science. —

The next meeting of the Society for Horticul-
tural Science will be held in connection with
the coming meeting of the American Associa-
tion for the advancement of Science, at Cornell
University, Ithaca, N.Y. The association meet-
ing begins June 29, and b}^ designation of Presi-
dent Bailey the society's meetings will be held
on the two days preceding, namely, June 27 and
28. Conditions are favourable for a well-
attended and enthusiastic meeting. The time is
convenient, coming just after the close of the
teaching season. The meeting is in connection
with that of the American association, yet
avoids conflicts with it by coming just before.
The place is central, and the distance practic-
able for a good portion of those interested, and
Cornell itself is a centre for scientific horti-
culturists. Membership is restricted to perso:is
engaged in teaching or investigating scientific
horticulture. V. A. Clark, Secretary -Treasurer.

The Society for Horticultural Science is

an organisation of teaching and investigating
horticulturists and others who are interested in
the advancement of horticulture by rational
methods. The society itself is a concerted
movement to this end. The society occupies
the territory between that of the societies for
general science and that of the popular horti-
cultural societies and connects them. The
society is not for the presentation of practical
results as such, which are already abundantly
provided for. The sphere of this society is the
devising of rules, whereby practice may be
made more exact and more intelligent. These
rules are the society's finished product, the raw
material for which is found in the finished re-
sults of the societies for general science. The
Society for Horticultural Science begins where
the societies for general science leave off, and
leaves off where the practical societies begin.
No other organisation covers the territory of
this society, nor does any other supply the want
which gave rise to it. As to the society's me-
thods of work : The society brings together the
scattered facts of horticultural science, analyses
them and points out their relation to each other.
The society is concerned with the relations of
the facts to each other and with their interpre-
tation rather than with isolated, raw facts them-
selves. The society is interested in analytical
investigation rather than in uncritical mass-ex-
perimentation. It is interested in processes, in
intermediate stages, in connecting links, in
knowing how to get a result rather than in the
result itself. It is more interested in the steps
of a demonstration and in their indubitable
sequence than in the conclusion. It is more
interested in the method, the theory, the logic.

388

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1906.

the mechanism of an investigation than in its
outcome or mere practical results. This is not
because the society values practical results less
highly than does the practitioner, but because it
appreciates more highly the method that must be
followed to get these results and to make them
certain in application. It is because the world is
clamouring for results and because the society
wishes to show how the demand may b© sup-
plied the most expeditiously possible consistent
with reliability. It is because cross-lot, cut-the-
corner methods of experimentation for quick
results have overwhelmingly demonstrated their
incompetence and unreliability. It is because
the society places reason above empiricism, the
dignity of the human mind above rule-of-
thumb. Further, as to the society's work. It
re-states in terms of natural science the pro-
blems of horticultural industry or of sense-per-
ception. It objectifies [«V] knowledge, render-
ing possible the establishment of standards of
judgment, the making of measurements, and
hence the development of science. The society
substitutes for the highest certainty that can be
furnished by unreasoned experience, which is
only certitude, and for its dogmatism the de-
monstrable certainty of science and its reason-
ableness. The society is not unappreciative of
how large a part practised instinct or acquired
tact — sense-conduct — plays in practice. Rather,
it bends all its efforts to establishing standards
and to making rules whereby sense-practice
can more intelligently regulate itself. The
society is not concerned with practising, but
with la)'ing the foundations of practice. It
does not aim to be a practitioner, but a prac-
titioner's guide. The society then is systema-
tising, critical and rationalising. It reduces
horticulture to pedagogic form. And this is the
great and crying need of present-day horticul-
ture. The Society for Horticultural Science
stands for scholarship in horticulture. V. A
dark. Secretary, Phanix, Arizona.

Carnations.— Messrs. Cutbush & Sons were
the recipients of a Gold Medal, with congratulations
of the jury, at the recent Horticultural Exhibition
in Paris. The Jardin, of June 5, gives an illustra-
tion of the group which secured this honour. The
same firm also secured awards for Roses.

Country Press Post-cards The Country

Press Pictorial Descriptive Post-cards have, at
any rate, a long title. We have previously com-
mented upon sets of these cards and now note the
appearance of others, alsoissuedfrom the " Country
Press," 19, Ball Street, Kensington. The more
recent pictures represent "Natural Figures of
Boles " of British trees, and show the Horse and
Sweet Chestnuts, the Oak, Walnut, Beech, and
Maple. Each is accompanied by a brief descrip-
tion extracted from Sylvan Winter, by Mr. Francis
Heath, and as the information is correct and the
pictures are pretty, we hope nature-students will
benefit by them.

Zoology.— The arrival of the Prince of Wales'
zoological collection, on June 7, at Tilbury,
emphasises the far greater interest taken in living
animals than in living plants by the "world,"
although his " wife " divides her average attention
fairly impartially. We do not hear of the Prince
of Wales' Botanical collection or Herbarium, nor
of any single gift to Kew, Wisley, or the Regent's
Park Botanic Garden.

Manuring. — Mr. Edward Owen Greening
has added a pamphlet on this important subject
to his penny series of " One & All " gardening
books. The letterpress details recent experiments
and improvements made in the science and
practice of manuring, and this in plain language
suitable for the use of amateurs. There are plenty
of instructive illustrations. The pamphlet is
published by the London Agricultural and Horti-
cultural Association, 92, Long Acre, W.C.

Mr. Henry Stevens- Photographs. — Most
of our readers know something of Mr. Henry
Stevens, the auctioneer, of King Street, Covent
Garden, for many of the most important sales
of Orchids and other plants are conducted in his
rooms. But Mr. Stevens is also an expert photo-
grapher, and some of his works have been repro-
duced in our own pages. A small exhibition of
Mr. Stevens' photographs of animals, domestic
pets, and horticultural subjects was opened at the
office of the British Journal oj PJiotograpliy, 24,
Wellington Street, London, W.C, on June 8, and
will remain open for free inspection by the public
until July 21. The exhibition contains 42 sub-
jects, including six transparencies. The best
of the horticultural subjects is the representation
of a bowl of Gloire de Dijon Roses, which was
reproduced as a supplement to the Gardeners'
Chronicle for February 10, 1883. For this photo-
graph Mr. Stevens was in that year awarded a
medal by the Photographic Society of Great
Britain. Another most pathetic subject, "Worn
Out," won a twenty guinea prize offered by the
Graphic, represents an old w-oman in a cart driving
a donkey. The woman, donkey and cart (the
wheels of which are tied again and again with
string) are all in the last stage of unfitness.
It is an excellent photograph. Some of the
photographs of animals are amusing, for in one
basket are seated a dog, cat, and three rabbits, all
of which appear to be happy.

Potato Incubators. — Feathered Life is re-
sponsible for the following: — "There is to be
seen at the farm homestead of Mr, J, Hudspeth,
Kenton Lodge, Newcastle, a turkey cock sitting on
ducks' eggs. He was first discovered to be sitting
on Potatos, which were replaced by Mrs.
Hudspeth with eggs." It would be interesting
to know the culinary condition of the "incu-
bated" Potatos.

The Preservation of Footpaths. — We
have received the latest report of the Kent and
Surrey Committee of the Commons and Foot-
paths Preservation Society. During the past 18
months the work of the society has much in-
creased, and the results obtained are correspond-
ingly gratifying. With the increase of building,
nowadays, the securing and maintaining of open
spaces and footpaths becomes more and more
necessary, and efforts should be made not merely
to secure new ground but to preserve all common
land and all rights of way that are in danger of
being usurped for private purposes. The com-
mittee appeals for funds from those interested in
its objects, which affect all residents in the locali-
ties under discussion. The report contains illus-
trations of some of the districts to which attention
has lately been paid by the society.

Liberia. — It is perhaps the botany of this
country that is of the highest interest, both
scientifically and commercially, and this is dealt
with in Sir Harry Johnston's "Liberia" by
Dr. OiTo Staff, of the Royal Gardens, Kew, who
has contributed an important appendix on the
flora of Liberia, which is based chiefly on
collections made by recent British explorers, and
which is illustrated by the drawings of Miss
Matilda Smith. The book is published by
Messrs. Hutchinson & Co.

The Floral Clock. — The idea of arranging
beds of flowers according to the time of day at
which they open is no new one. It is a pleasant
fancy still with some gardeners to establish such
dials, and we note, in the June number of The
Strand Magazine, two plans for such horoscopes.
The writer mentions some of the flowers that may
be depended upon to open more or less e.xactly to
time, and by experimenting with these and other
plants the growers would at least enlarge their
knowledge of the habits of certain species.
Linnaeus' floral clock is, of course, cited as an
instance of this plan of learning or divining the time.
A good watch, however, is more trustworthv.

Red Clover. — Mr. Arthur Leighton, of
Xew'castle, Staffs., has issued a pamphlet upon
Red Clover and its Transitional Forms, which
the importance of the plant to agriculturists is
in itself sufficient to render interesting. The
author mentions that Red Clover was intro-
duced from Flanders in 1633, and has since
been, extensively grown, though no exact re-
cords of its early habits are extant. The plant
is considered by some as an annual, that is, it
dies every winter ; some authorities ascribing
its failure to survive as being due to the attacks
of a fungus. Mr. Leighton considers that the
annual loss of the plant is brought about by
the system of cultivation, by which its peren-
nial nature has been lost, but that this perma-
nent character will re-appear under other con-
ditions of cultivation. This " atavism " makes-
the principle of inheritance an interesting study,,
and one important to growers. When once a
species is established as an annual its repro-
duction (from seed) will result in a race with
fixed characteristics, whereas the increase from
buds or tubers is admittedly uncertain and
variable. " The dying out of the Clover in the
winter months, from which farmers have suf-
fered for some years, may be attributed to an
annual tendency rather than to any fungus or
insect attack." There are, from an agricultural
standpoint, four varieties of Red Clover —
namely, the Perennial Red of the meadows,,
whose seed is not in commerce ; single cut Cow-
grass, generally accepted as the product of a
more permanent plant ; Giant Hybrid Cowgrass
and ordinary broad-leaved Red Clover from
seed saved during the first years. These four
forms have one common origin, and have al-
tered constitutionally rather than, botanically.
Plants transitional in character can be obtained
from seed, but soon revert to the original types
and become annuals, dying at the end of the
year. Therefore, always considering the value
of this crop, Mr. Leighton, thinking its weak-
ness to be caused by its early maturity and con-
sequent exhaustion, would plant Red Clover
late and retard its growth rather than encour-
age it by giving rich soil and stimulants, argu-
ing that the more a plant is forced the quicker
it becomes exhausted, and that this is especially
characteristic of plants that are allowed to
flower and bear seed and thus fulfil the object
of their existence. Finally, we must not forget
to mention that the booklet contains several
pictures representing experimental fields of
Clover under various treatments. The term
" spermideus," as applied to plants, is not
familiar, and " spermaphyte " (more correctly
" spermatophyte") would be more intelligible \o
farmers if seed-bearing plants were substituted
for the Greek words.

The Hybridisation Conference The

following invitation lias been issued by Mr.
Bateson :— " It is thought that members of the
Hybridisation and Plant-Breeding Conference
interested in the scientific aspects of these subjects
may be glad of an opportunity of visiting
Cambridge, and making acquaintance with the
experimental work in progress there. Arrange-
ments will accordingly be made for a visit to
Cambridge immediately after the close of the
London meeting, which concludes with the visit to
Kew Gardens on Friday, August 3. Those who
desire to do so can leave London (Great Eastern
Railway from Liverpool Street Station) at 8.20p.m.,
reaching Cambridge at 9.40. They will pass the
night either in some of the Colleges or at the
houses of those who are good enough to act a&
hosts, see the various experiments on Saturday,
and spend that night also in Cambridge, when it is
hoped that some e\'ening gathering may be
arranged for in one of the Colleges. Those who
propose to attend the meeting of the British Asso-
ciation in York can leave on Sunday at 11.13 a.m.,

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

389

reaching York at 4.35 p.m. As Saturday is a
blank day at the British Association, there would
be little gain ia reaching York before Sunday
afternoon. The one day in Cambridge will not
suffice for a visit to the Colleges and other objects
of interest in the University, but those who do not
intend to go to York are cordially invited to prolong
their stay in Cambridge. I shall be glad to know
whetlier you will be able to accept this invitation,
and whether you will be accompanied by a lady,
for in that case special arrangements have to
be made. College accommodation being only
available for men. W. B.meson."

Materials for Thatching. — M. E. de
WiLDEMAN has issued Part II. of Tuilcs VegCiahs
in pamphlet form, the subject-matter having been
previously published by him in Missions Beiges de
la Cowpagiiie dc Jisus. The author deals with the
various vegetable fibres and foliage used by the
natives of the Congo for thatching, and his illus-
trations show how some of these are employed.
Among the species mentioned as being found
suitable are Garcophrynium .Arnoldianum, Raphia
Laurentii, R. Sese, R. Gentiliana, and R. Gilletii,
and others, whose fibres are plentiful and strong,
or whose enormous fronds can be dried and utilised
for thatch.

Climate and Vegetation for 1905. —
From Mr, Mawley's valuable report to the Royal
Meteorological Society we take the following
summary : — .As affecting vegetation, the weather
of the phenological year ending November, 1S05,
was chiefly remarkable for the dryness and mildness
of the winter months, the drought and frosts in
May, the long spell of hot and dry weather in July,
and an exceptionally cold period in October. Wild
plants came into flower a few days earlier than
usual until about the beginning of May, after which
time they were, as a rule, to about the same extent
late. Most of the early spring migrants, such as
the swallow, nightingale, etc., reached these shores
rather in advance of their average dates. The
best farm crops of the year were those of Wheat,
Beans, and Hops; while Barley, Potatos, Turnips,
and Mangolds were all more or less over average.
O.i the other hand, the yield of Oats, Peas, and Hay
was almost everywhere deficient — the latter being
the worst crop of the year. Apples, Pears, and
Plums were in all parts of the British Isles below
average, whereas the small fruits, as a rule, yielded
moderately well. Taking the farm crops alone,
the past year must be regarded as having been, on
the whole, a fairly bountiful one.

The Calamity at San Francisco. — The
number of Giudening for May Vi has two notes by
the same writer — the one buoyant and detailing
floral triumphs at the Opera and elsewhere, the
other of a very different complexion. "The
foregoing was written Tuesday night, April 17,
and pocketed with the idea of adding some trade
notes a day or two later before posting. The
next morning a few minutes after 5 o'clock I was
awakened by the sensation of a whirling about of
my room and whirling back again, twice repeated,
and the promiscuous scattering and loud clattering
of its considerable contents. An 18 inch by 3 foot
glass framed picture on the wall above my pillow
came down and wounded me in several places,
but only superficially, my worst cut being in the
right hand, its bandaged condition preventing me
from concluding this report and getting it off in
time for the American Florist's last edition. And
I would have also sent last week the completed
report I had carefully prepared for the American
Florist Company's Directory. It was consumed
with all else I had in this world, in the fire that
followed tlie earthquake. The trade notes I
had gathered for this letter would not do for
publication now ; they all related to florists of the
north and south divisions of the city, fully two-
thirds of the city, all now a mass of ruins, and
the florists are scattered among the army tents
that cover the green hills of the w-estern division

toward the Presidio and Golden Gate and the
elevations of San Mateo county that overlook the
burned city. The growers and nurserymen were
beyond the fire limits, and with the exception of
more or less broken glass and pots are compara-
tively uninjured. The John H. Sievers Co.
escaped the fire by only one block." ^esse White.

A remarkable escape from injury was that of

Luther Burbank. His home and experimental
gardens were undisturbed. Mr. Burbank saved
his valuable collection of photographic negatives.
These were unbroken, though the other half of
the gallery in which they were stored was smashed
to splinters.

The Families of Flowering Plants. — In

the present neglect of systematic teaching in regard
to the classification of plants, the " Guide to the
Principal Families of Flowering Plants," by Mr.
J. Adams, will be found serviceable. It is arranged
according to the system of Engler. It is, after all,
a knowledge of the natural groups themselves
that is most to be desired. The limitations of the
groups do not vary materially in any of the modern
systems of classification, although the sequence
and arrangement differ according to increase of
knowledge and personal opinion. The close
collocation, for physiological reasons only, of
Sarracenias, Nepenthes, Cephalotus, and Dro-
seras, for instance, because they all have pitchers
or insect-catching leaves, though otherwise
widely difi'erent, is about as reasonable as it would
be to place ISIonmouth and Macedon in the same
category. The near approximation of Thymelaceae
and Magnoliaceae is almost equally bizarre. But
these details do not interfere with the utility of the
pamphlet. It may be had from Sealy, Bryeks &
Walker, of Dublin.

Publications Received.— r/je Agricultural
Gazette oj New South Wales. April. Contents:
Wheat at the Coura Experiment-Station Farm,
W. Farrer and G. L. Sutton ; New South Wales
Forestry, J. H. Maiden ; Practical Vegetable and
Flower Growing, W. S. Campbell, &c. — Annual Report
of the Director of Agriculture, Transvaal. A bulky
volume of reports from various Divisions. Mr. J.
Burtt Davy says that the Botanical Department has
been mainly occupied with seed and plant introduction
and testing, seed distribution, stock-range investigations
and experiments, investigations of poisonous plants,
noxious, fibre and native economic plants. Many
successful experiments were made. Mr. C. E. Legat
gives an encouraging report of the Division of
Forestry, and Mr. R. A. Davis a similar note
on the Division of Horticulture. — Proceedings of
the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia.
September to IJecember, 1905. Contents : Cratasgus
in Eastern Pennsylvania, C. S. Sargent ; Plant
Formations of the Bermuda Islands, Dr. J. W.
Harshberger ; Hour-glass Stems of the Bermuda
Palmetto, by the same author. These are the
principal botanical articles. The volume includes
satisfactor}' reports from various officials of the Academy
concerning their several departments. — Jamaica :
Bulletin of the Department of Agriculture. April.
Edited by Wm. Fawcett. Contents: Cassada Trials,
Cotton Disease, Logwood, Early Oranges, History of
the Double Cocoanut, &c. — Agricultural Gazette:
Report of the Vegetable Growers' Association of
Ontario. 1905. A useful association whose works
will be still more important as the number of
members increases. — Report of the Bee-Keepers'
Association of Ontario. 1905. Among other interest-
ing items we note that the spraying of fruit-trees when
in bloom is illegal, and that owing to sprayisg
at that time enormous numbers of bees have been
destroyed. — Report of the Poultry Institute of Ontario.
1905. Report on Cocoa and Cola Industries in the Gold
Coast. By W. H. Johnson. This has been forwarded
to us by Mr. A. E. Evans, Botanic Gardens, Aburi,
and promises a successful future for the Cocoa industry
in the Gold Coast regions. — From the Jamaica Board
of Agriculture : Report on the Sugar Experiment
Station, for 1905. By H. H. Cousins. This report
deals not only with Sugar-cane cultivation, but with
the questions of distillation and the manufacture of
rum. — The Board of Agriculture and Fisheries issue
the following leaflets : No. 144, Heart-rot of Beet,
Mangold and Swede ; No. 160, Cultivation of Lucerne;
No. 163, Grafting Fruit Trees; No. 163, White Rust
of Cabbages; No. 164, Potato Leaf-curl. — Manning's
Monographs, No. 2 : Hardy Rhododendrons, Azaleas,
and the Mountain Laurel. The Reading Nurseries,
Massachusetts. A useful list of the best varieties of
these plants and giving cultural hints. — From the
United States Department of Agriculture ; The Home
Vegetable Garden, by W. R. Beattie. Apple Districts
of New York, with varieties for each. tJ. P. Hedrick,
N. O. Booth, and O. M. Taylor. — Varieties of Straw-
berries and Cultural Directions, O. M. Taylor.

WATER GARDENS.

(Continued from page 360.)
Miscellaneous Aquatic Plants.

The rank and file of aquatics need a vigorous
selection. A few indiscreet inclusions may
spoil everything, and I am disposed to condemn
many on account of their naturally weedy char-
acter and their too rapid increase. One desires
for the water garden plants that will flourish for
many years, and which will contribute, when
once established, to a scene of artistic refine-
ment that should be the dominant feature in all
water gardens. I would not advise planting
Nuphars in any lake where Nymphaeas are
grown ; no water would be xisible after they
had occupied the lake for tea 3'ears, and no
Water Lily could endure such truculent neigh-
bours. Phragmitis communis, too, should ba
debarred, as well as Alisma plantago, Stratiotes
aloides. Ranunculus aquatilis, R. lingua, and
Villarsia nymphasoidcs. Typhas, such as
minima, stenophylla, and angustifolia, I would
admit. One would not care to lose their ele-
gant foliage rising from the water, and their
pretty brown clubs that form so distinct a fea-
ture in autumn time, but I would submit all
Typhas to an annual reduction to keep them in
bounds. The Reed-mace, Typha latifolia, soon
spreads from a square foot of space to a square
pole, but the plant is worthy of growing, and
it can be annually reduced. Zizania latifolia,
the perennial Rice, is an elegant grass with
panicles of purplish flowers. It is suitable for
growing in shallow water, but the number of
seedlings should be reduced annually. Ranun-
culus lingua grandiflora, a beautiful variety of
a weedy plant, is worthy of the best position
in shallow waters. Its bold foliage, tall habit,
and large glistening yellow flowers, like those
of a small TroUius, make it a splendid subject.
Caltha polypetala, a great rarity from Asia, has
leaves thrice as large as those of the Coltsfoot,
although similarly shaped, and of a lustrous
green, and with decumbent peduncles, 2 feet
long, that bear elegant " globes " of golden
yellow, each as large as a Walnut. It prefers
to be " puddled " in 2 or 3 inches of water. It
represents the best yellow flowered sub-aquatic
known.

I would suppress Sagittaria sagittifolia as be-
ing too aggressive, but I would include S. mon-
tevidensis for its lance-shaped leaves and its
striking panicles of large white, brown spotted
flowers ; another worthy Arrowhead is S. varia-
bilis, for it has fine leaves and an inflorescence
of pure white gold-tasselled flowers. The double
flowered form of S. variabilis develops bold
panicles of double white flowers that stand 2
feet above the water's surface. They resemble
enlarged Stocks.

Reeds and Rushes.
These subjects are not difficult to reduce
should they get out of hand, hence one may
with safety plant them freely. The variegated
Porcupine Rush, Scirpus lacustris, zebrinus,
whose beauty lies in the leaves that are
adorned with transverse bands of white, should
form a large clump. The less beautiful cork-
screw Rush, Juncus spiralis, and the variegated
Rush, Juncus effusus aureo-striatus, the last
named with a not very conspicuous line of
yellow traversing its length of leaf, may be ad-
mitted for their individual interest rather than
for their beauty. Carex Gaudichaudiana, the
Japanese Sedge and C. pendula, together with
Cyp'.^rus longus, are suitable plants sufficiently
ornamental to be welcomed, and whose increase,
though rapid, is capable of being curtailed and
kept within reasonable limits. All these plants
need shallow water, with plenty of mud in
which to root.

390

THE GA RDENERS' CHR ONICL E.

[June 16, 1906.

Acorus calamus, the Sw>eet Flag, needs a posi-
tion sheltered from 'winds. Its leaves often ex-
ceed 6 feet in height, and are very ornamental.
The variegated Japanese Sweet Flag (Acorus
japonicus is too garish a plant for our
purpose ; similarly the variegated form of
the common Manna grass (Glyceria aquatica)
may with greater fitness be grown with it in the
garden pool, where its variegation could be more
readily appreciated. The Water Hawthorn
(Aponogeton distachyon) cannot be overlooked.
Its lance-shaped floating leaves and dainty,
sweetly .scented, ivory-white and curiously
fashioned flowers, " peppered " on the inside
with tiny stamens, are always welcome. More-
over, the plant does not increase inordinately.
Hottonia palustris, the " Water Violet," should
find no place in our scheme. Although wonder-
fully pretty, this submerged plant needs a more
restricted sphere than a large lake affords. The
Buck Bean (Menyanthes trifoliata) may be in-
troduced into shallow water. The tubers should
be fastened to the bank, and the subsequent
spread of growth allowed a limited range, from
which it must not escape. Its pink, feathesjr
flowers are very pleasing. The Golden Club
(Orontium aquaticum) forms a distinct-looking
mass of round leaves of a lustrous green shade,
and has curious Arum-like, apetalous flowers. It
makes an interesting floating plant and does not
become a nuisance.

Pontederias revel in shallows, and such fine
species as P. cordata, whose inflorescence is
none too well coloured, but whose leaves form
a bolJ-looking clump, and P. montevidensis, a
newer species, with narrowly cordate leafage
2 feet high and more, and with showy flowers of
a good shade of blue, are deserving of selection.
Admit no Azollas of any kind — fortunately they
are not quite hardy — or by this time the
Canadian water weed (Elodea canadensis) and
the common pond weed would have doughty
rivals in the Azollas as water pests. They are,
however, able to thrive and increase in the
south-west, as many growers too well know.
The " Frog Bit " (Hydrocjiaris morsus ranae)
may be afforded a little recess to itself, but a
watchful eye is needed over its peregrinations.
G. B. Malleii.

(To be conliiiucd.)

HYBRID CALCEOLARIAS.

During the spring months one of the most
showy features of the cool greenhouse and conser-
vatory in the Royal Gardens, Kew, are the beauti-
ful varieties of herbaceous Calceolarias.

By intercrossing the greenhouse herbaceous
varieties with C. rug )sa, Mr. John Jefferies, of
Oxford, has broken down the barrier between tliem.

So far Jefferies' hybrid Calceolarias have not
been received very favourably. Those who have
grown and know the true xalue of the plants, how-
ever, more especially as the forerunner of a new
race, confidently e.xpect to use the words of an old
saying, " There'll come a time some day."

The largest plants of this type at present flower-
ing are a year and nine months old from cuttings.
After flowering last year the old flowering shoots
were cut off and the plants potted on. During the
winter they have been grown in a house with a
minimum atmospheric temperature at night of
40° Fahr. The points of the slioots were pinched ofi
several times. Plants rai edf cm cuttings inserted
on several dates in late si m ner and autumn are
just commencing to flower, the size of the plants
varying according to the time at which they were
rooted. These will give a succession of flowers
which will last nearly over the summer. The
colours at present are not very numerous, but this
can soon be remedied. A rich crimson self colour
is very striking, another with a golden edging to
the brownish-crimson centre finds many admirers.

As previously stated, the height of the plants
can be varied according to tne grower s require-
ments ; say from 2 feet to 6 feet. The branching

panicles are covered with flowers about an inch
across. The leaves are not quite so large as in the
herbaceous varieties, but are more erect.

Last year a bed was planted with this type in
the open air. It was a great success and flowered
continuously the whole summer.

At present the plant is a shy seeder. The
pollen has been used on some of the best forms of
the herbaceous varieties with the idea of obtaining
a greater range of colour. The result of this
second cross is very encouraging ; it flowered for
the first time last spring, and has been given the
name of C. Kewensis x .

NEW INVENTIONS.

A USEFUL PUMP.

A GOOD pump is, in many gardens, an almost in-
dispensable implement, and in fruit orchards where
spraying operations are conducted, an absolute
necessity. Anker's patent pedal pump, fig. 159.
differs from the majority of spraying and pumping
machines in that the necessary force is applied by
the operator's feet — as in working the pedals of
a bicycle— and the pressure thus obtained by the
weight of the body enables a large volume of
water to be thrown a considerable distance. The

[Plwlo b^ E. J. WalUs.
Fig. 158. — CALCEOLARI.\ KEWENSIS X, AND ITS TWO PARENTS.

Calceolaria Kewensis x.
The plants are more compact and the flowers
about double the size of C. Jefferies' Hybrid, and
the colours of the flowers are more numerous.
The large plants at present flowering average 2
feet 6 inches in height, and are 2 feet in diameter.
The old panicles of flower were removed when
fading last year, and the plants potted on. They
are now about 21 months old from seeds.
Plenty of seeds were obtained from these plants
last year. On a side stage some of the seedlings
are flowering, being from 1 to 2 feet in height. The
illustration at fig. 158 shows one of these plants
with yellow flowers, also an herbaceous variety
on the left side, and one of Jefferies' Hybrid
Calceolarias on the other side, on the right, for
comparison. A. O,

machine is constructed in the form of a barrow,
and is thus so readily removed from one place to
another, that a boy can convey it with ease. When
at rest the machine stands upon its own frame, and
the operator mounts upon the foot plates, steady-
ing himself by an upright bar with a handle, and
commences the pedalling. Fig. 159 shows the
machine at work. The feed pipe is shown at the
back, and this is placed in the tank or stream
from which the water is to be drawn. Thus the
whole force is supplied by the pump itself, and,
considering the small size of the machine, the
power is remarkable. It is suitable for use in the
garden, also for extinguishing fires, for white-
washing, emptying gullies, draming ponds and
other purposes. The patentee is Mr. Richard
Anker, 57, Carter Lane, London, E.G. r

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

591

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)
The PROTECTroN of Fruit and Other
Crops from Frost in Spring. — I was much
interested in Mr. Owen Thomas' note on this
matter on p. 186. The subject demands a most
searching investigation, so that I am surprised
that the opinions of so few of our leading fruit
growers and gardeners have been expressed on
it. It is, however, encouraging to find that
the Government has appointed a committee
of experts to report on the fruit industry
of this country, and it is to be hoped they will
pay particular attention to this part of the fruit
grower's trouble. Occasionally we arei favoured
with a good fruit season, but the majority of
recent springs have been visited by frosts in
May, with what disastrous results some of us
growers know only too well. What can be done
to minimise the evil? With vegetable crops it is
an easy matter to scatter litter or straw over
them in the evening when a frost is imminent,
and I have saved many of these crops in this
way. But with fruit trees something more
needs to be done. Wall trees can be protected
by canvas blinds let down at night time and
drawn up in the morning ; or by fish netting

and day raise the temperature, and no harm
results to the trees from frosts coming from that
quarter. The gardener has noticed this peculi-
arity for the greater part of 30 years. I instance
this to support my contention that if the
blossoms are to be protected from May frasts,
the only practical way to fight the enemy is
by doing something that will raise the tem-
perature over a certain spot for a few Lours.
Lamps, no doubt, are very good, but they must
be very troublesome on windy nights, and they
take some time to get in readiness, to say
nothing of the expense incurred. Rubbish fires
will answer the same purpose, they cost nothing
^the rubbish must be got rid of — and the result,
ing ashes form a valuable manure. When fruit
trees gave promise oi splendid crops of
fruit, it behoved everyone connected with
the fruit industry to keep a sharp look-out
for the foe, and when it comes, to use the best
means at disposal to protect the trees. It
would be interesting and instructive if growers
who have been successful in warding off the
evils of spring frosts would give particulars of
the ways and the means by which they have
been enabled to do so. S. Wm. Pettit.

Strawberry Bedford Champion. — Among
the very fine Strawberries raised and introduced
by Messrs. Laxton Bros., Bedford, the above

Fig. 159. — anker's ped.^l pump.
(For text see page 390.)

hung over the trees. But it is in dealing with the
acies of fruit trees, large Strawberry planta-
tions, etc., that the great difficulty lies. Mr.
Thomas gives the method advocated and prac-
tised by Mr. Martin, of the Toddington Orchard
Co., which is that of burning a certain number
of lamps to the acre; but I don't think this
would find much favour with the majority of
growers, especially on a windy night. I remem-
ber when, as a young man serving under the
late Mr. Ingram at Belvoir Castle, we, in the
bothy, used to smile (in our ignorance, as I nov;
believe) at the methods practised by him if he
foresaw a sharp frost in the springtime. W'ood
and rubbish were readily available in such a
large garden ; and when frost threatened he
would ascertain the direction from whence the
cold current was proceeding and light these
rubbish fires, so that the smoke would travel
over that part of the garden where frost would
do most harm. I do not remember hearing
of disastrous results to the fruit crops in those
gardens during my time there. To emphasise
the good which these fires undoubtedly do, I
may instance a garden where frosts froj 1 the
north or north-east never do harm ; but when
it comes from the south much damage is ex-
perienced. The gardener attributes this im-
munity in the former case to the fact that on
the north side of the garden, not very far away,
is a large manufacturing town, and the heat and
smoke issuing from numerous chimneys night

variety is certainly one of the best. I have
tested it somewhat largely here during the past
two seasons, both for forcing and cultivation
in the open air, and it has proved itself in every
way most satisfactory ; it bears forcing well, does
not appear subject to mildew, and its richly
coloured, large, good flavoured fruits should
ensure for it a lasting reputation, and as a market
variety it should find much favour. For open-air
culture it is a most valuable variety, and on our
strong land it is a vigorous grower. No one who
visited the Temple Show could have failed to be
struck with that splendid exhibit staged by Messrs.
Laxton themselves. Edwin Beckett, Aldenham
House Gardens, Elstrce.

The Fruit Prospects. — This will be the
worst fruit year in this district that has been
experienced for a long time (12 years or longer).
In the open there are no dessert fruits of any kind
worth gathering with the exception of late Apples
and Strawberries, and these are both below the
average. Of Marie Louise and Doyenne du
Comice Pears there are none, but Chaumontel
bears a crop. Common Pears (Hazels) carry crops
in some places. Late Apples will be plentiful,
Cox's Orange Pippin bears a crop, and Lane's
Prince Albert a fine crop. Stone fruit on walls
have partly escaped, but are still below the average.
Morellos carry a- crop. Orchard fruits : Apricots,
0 ; Peaches and Nectarines, 0; Dessert Pears, 15;
Dessert Plums and Gages, 0; Dessert Apples

(early), 10; Dessert Apples (late), 80; Dessert
Cherries, 10 ; Stewing Pears, 5 ; Cooking Plums,
15; Damsons, 0; Cooking Apples (early), 40;
Cooking Apples (late), 110; Fancy Apples, 100.
On south, east, and west walls: Apricots, 70;
Peaches and Nectarines, 70 ; Dessert Pears, 5 ;
Dessert Plums, 15 ; Figs, 50. On north walls :
Dessert Pears, 0 ; Dessert Plums, 5 ; Morellos,
100 ; Dessert Cherries, 5. Soft fruits : Straw-
berries, 60 ; Red and White Currants, 10; Black
Currants, 45. All these figures are based upon the
assumption that " a crop " may be represented by
the number 100. The average return in this climate
falls short of a crop by about 30 per cent. The
Quince trees are late, and it is impossible to
estimate the crop. A. IVorsley, Isleit-orth, Middlesex.

Worms in Flower-Pots.— A simple method
of freeing the soil in pots standing in rooms, &c.,
is to place a rotten Apple on the surface of the
soil near the plant, and in a short space of time
the worms will be observed on the fruit, and can
then be brushed off and the Apple laid again on the
soil. All the worms in the soil can be caught in
this way. F. ,

Chives. — To have this useful plant in perfec-
tion, the soil should be adhesive, moist, and heavy.
In sandy soils the plant gradually dies out, and
a sunny or half-shady position suits it best. The
plant makes a pretty object with its lilac-coloured
flowers on the rockery, where, naturally, the
leaves should not be cut. M.

Carnation Princess of Wales. — This
charming pink form of Souvenir de la Malmaison
Carnation is a great favourite in the Right Hon.
Lord Rothschild's Gardens, Tring Park (gr. Mr.
Arthur Dye), sharing with the old blush form the
duty of supplying the main crop of flowers. The
house of it at Tring Park Ijjs never been so good
as this year, the plants having presented an ap-
pearance for some time past of a mass of bloom.
The plants on an average have nine large blooms
each and are perfect both in foliage and flower.
Several houses are filled with these beautiful "Mal-
maison " Carnations, which are throughout equal to
those in the fine group at the Temple Show for
which Lord Rothschild was awarded the Silver-
Gilt Flora Medal of the Royal Horticultural
Society. B.

Clouds of Gnats. — While travelling along a
country road at dusk one evening early in June,
my attention was directed to what seemed to be
columns of thin black smoke rising from many of
the trees which had all the appearance of having a
smouldering fire among their topmost branches.
Oak trees were for the most part thus affected,
the Willows, Elms, and Ash trees being clear.
These clouds, on closer inspection, turned out not to
be masses of vapour but hordes of black gnats, and
there must have been millions of them within the
space of only a few yards. Had they been bees,
it might have b^en supposed that they were on the
point of swarming. Is it a customary occurrence,
first, to see such enormous quantities of these
insects, and second, is there any particular reason
for the selection of the crowns of Oak trees as the
scene of their evening revels ? Cyclist,

soci£:tie:s.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

June 12. — The ordinary fortnightly meeting
of the Committees took place on the above date
in the Royal Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square,
Westminster, when a very attractive exhibition
was made.

Orchids were very numerous, Cattleya Men-
deli, C. Mossiie, and Laelio-Cattleyas being
conspicuous. Awards made by the Orchid
Committee included two First Class Certificates,
seven Awards of Merit, and three Botanical Cer-
tificates.

The Floral Com,mittee recommended Awards
of Merit to two varieties of Papaver orientale,
two varieties of hardy Rhododendron, also to
Gloriosa Rothschildiana citrina, and Verbena
hybrida variety "Snowflake."

The Fruit & Vegetable Committee had very
little to inspect, and their only award was made
to a variety of Cucumber.

At the afternoon meeting 118 new Fellows
were elected, and Sir George Watt read a valu-
able paper on "Tea and the Tea Plant."

Floral Committee.

Present : W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. Jno. Green, T. W. 'Turner, G. Reuthe,

392

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1900.

Chas. Dixon, R. W. Wallace, A. Perry, W.
Howe, H. J. Cutbush, Chas. Jeffries, J T. Ben-
nett-Poe, Chas. E. Shea, V. Page Roberts,
(Rev.) Chas. E. Pearson, W. P. Thomson, M. J.
James, Geo. Paul, C. T. Druery, Geo. Nichol-
son, H. B. May, Jno. Jennings, James Hudson,
and R. C. Notcutt.

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries,
Upper Edmonton, filled one of the side tables
with batches of Ixoras intermingled with choice
Ferns. The Ixoras attracted much notice, the
plants being dwarf and bearing large trusses of
their pleasing flowers. The varieties Fraseri
(orange red) and Williamsi (orange salmon) are
deserving of especial mention. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, Surrey, showed a collection of orna-
mental stove and greenhouse plants similar to
the group exhibited by him at the Temple
Flower Show ; also flowers of double and single
varieties of Pyrethrum roseum, and varieties of
Iris, etc. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. James V^itch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, showed their new Primulas Cock-
burniana, deflexa, Ve'itchii, sibirica and pulveru-
lenta, also the handsome Meconopsis integri-
folia, with M. punicea at the back of the
group. In another part of the hall Messrs.
Veitch displayed a number of greenhouse
flowering plants, including beautiful Streptocar-
pus hybrids. Gloxinias, Kalanchoe flammula,
and a number of handsome Gerberas. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Quite the best plants of herbaceous Calceo-
larias we have seen this season were those
shown by Lady Northcliffe, Sutton Place,
Guildford (gr. Mr. J, Goatley). The plants
were splendid examples, being large and
shapely, and each was crowned with a profu-
sion of flowers, some of the individual globes
measuring almost 4 inches across. Adjoining
the Calceolarias was a bright group of hardy
flowers shown by the same exhibitor. (Silver-
Gilt Flora Medal.)

Another display of these flowers was presented
by J. A. Young, Esq., Stone House, West Hill,
Putney (gr. Mr. S. H. Street).

Messrs. Ben. Cant & Sons, The Old Rose
Gardens, Colchester, showed bunches of garden
Roses — nearly all single varieties, with a num-
ber of trained Rambler Roses in the background.
It would be hard to choose the more beauti-
ful among Lciothy Perkins, Philadelphia Ram-
bler, and Lady Gay, as displayed by Messrs.
Cant. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Hobbies, Ltd., Dereham Nurseries,
Norfolk, showed Rambler Roses, the new Vitis
Henryana, and the variegated Iris pallida flava.

Messrs. Hugh Low &- Co., Bush Hill Park,
Middlesex, displayed some good Carnations,
including a couple of large plants of Souvenir
de la Malmaison Princess of Wales. Near by
the same firm displayed plants of the " bottle
brush tree," Mftiosideros floribunda. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Mr. H. Burnett, St. Margaret's Vineries,
Guernsey, showed some remarkably good Car-
nations arranged in a pretty setting of Aspara-
gus Sprengeri and Smilax. The variety Mrs. H.
Burnett is a charming flower of delicate sal-
mon pink colour. Other good vases were those
of Glacier (white). The President (crimson), and
Lieut. Peary (white). (Silver-Gilt Flora Medal.)

Sir Samuel Scott, Westbury Manor, Brack-
ley (gr, Mr. F. Tappin), exhibited a nice batch
of Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations. (Sil-
ver Flora Medal.)

H. L. Bischoff.<;heim, Esq., Warren House,
Stanmore (gr, Mr. Ellis), staged a group of Car-
nation plants that were carrying very large
flowers and had strong, robust growths. (Sil-
ver-Gilt Flora Medal.)

W. James, Esq., West Dean Park, Chichester
(gr. Mr. W. H. Smith), showed a magnificent
plant of Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnation in
a polished tub. As an example of good cul-
ture and training, the specimen was unique.
{Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Paul & Sons, The Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, staged a mixed group of flowering
subjects. They had many garden Roses, princi-
pally single varieties, an interesting display of
ornamental hardy foliage, a number of hardy
flowers, including some good Pseonies, sprays
of Abutilon vitifolium and Fremontia cali-
fornica ; and two new Rhododendrons, named

Essex Scarlet and John Bennett Poe respec-
tively.

Messrs. Kelway & Son, Langport, Somerset,
showed very large collections of Pasonies, Del-
phiniums, and pyrethiums. A new Delphinium,
named Queen of Spam, is of a true cobalt-blue
colour. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Geo. Bunyard cS: Co., Maidstone,
Kent, exhibited many flowers from the open —
Roses, Rhododendrons, Kalmia latifolia, Per-
nettya mucronetia, Poppies — including the Ice-
land and Oriental types, Pyrethrums, Irises,
Lilies, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, showed
vases of named varieties of Pyrethrums and
ether garden flowers. (Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Cheal & Son, Crawley, displayed a
large assortment of sprays of ornamental foliage
trees — Oaks, Elms, Maples, Mountain Ash,
Laburnums, Berberis, Pyrus Aria, &c. The soft
yellowish-green tint of Quercus Concordia is
very pleasing. Other shrubs and trees were in
flower, Olearia stellulata being shown in fine
condition. Mixed m the group were a number
of hardy flowers, while trusses of Rhododen-
dron flowers gave a bright appearance to the
whole. (Silver Banksian Medal,)

Lord Alde.nha>[, Aldenham House, Elstree
(gr. Mr. E. Beckett), exhibited a rich and varied
assortment of coloured fo'iage and flowering
trees and shrubs. The display occupied a large
table running the entire length of the Hall from
east to west, and comprised almost all the best
and showiest subjects of this type of garden
plants. (Silver-Gilt Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Bakek, Lichfield Street, Wolver-
hampton, showed an excellent strain of Aquile-
gias. The vases of flowers were all named
varieties. The Bride is a charming creamy-
white flower with a suspicign of rose in the
spurs. Village Belle is conspicuously large.
The dwarf A. Stuarti was exhibited growing
in a pan. The flowers of this hybrid are larger
than those of the garden species, and it has
very restricted spurs. The inflorescences attain
a height of about 9 inches or a foot. Messrs.
Baker also displayed bunches of Zonal Pelar-
goniums. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. R. C. Notcutt, Woodbridge, showed a
selection of hardy flowers, among which the
double Lychnis viscaria splendens was charm-
ing. (Silver Banksian Medal,)

Mesirs. Dohbie & Co., Rothesay, showed an
admirable strain of Aquilegias, the flowers be-
ing large, the colours well selected, and the
spurs long. In the centre of th© collection were
a few species of Aquilegia, including the scarlet
and yellow A. canadensis elatior, A. alpina,
the double form of the white A. vulgaris, and
the curious button-like A. sibirica flore pleno.
(Silver Flora Medal,)

Mr. Amos Perky, Winchmore Hill, and En-
field, Middlesex, showed a batch of hardy flow-
ers of most of the finer kinds now in season.
Varieties of Papaver orientale were a feature,
some of the shades seen in the flowers being
quite a pale salmon. Ixiolirion tataricum was
shown in excellent condition. We also noticed
a fine batch of Lilium monadelphum. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Mr. G. Reuthe, Fox Hill Hardy Plant Nur-
sery, Keston, Kent, had a brilliant display of
showy border flowers and alpine plants — Saxi-
fraga pyramidalis. Campanula thyrsoideus,
Pyrethrums, Irises, Tree Peonies, &c. (Silver
Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Nur-
series, Colchester, staged a group of herbaceous
flowers. A feature was a batch of hybrid
Heucheras, with colours ranging from white to
crimson. Oriental Poppies in variety were
gorgeous. Pentsteinun glaber is a fine thing.
Irises, Lilies, Pyrethrums, Sparaxis, Lupins,
and many other border flowers were included in
the display. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, 11, 12, 13, King Street,
Covent Garden, London, showed a batch cf
hardy flowers — Lupins, Irises, Oriental Poppies,
Aquilegias, Campanulas, &c. The double
Lychnis viscaria splendens is most ornamental.
The bright pink flowers are crowded on the long
flower spikes, (Bronze Flora Medal.)

Messrs. John Peed & Sox, West Norwood,
London, S.E., showed boxes and pans of Alpine
plants, Carnations, Richardia EUiottiana, and
the white Phyllocactus Cooperi. (Bronze Flora
Medal,)

Messrs. Wm. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, Loq-
don, N., staged a batch of Verbenas.

Lady Lishington, Stokke, Great Bedwyn,
Hungerford (gr. Mr. S. K. Day), exhibited a
group of Alpine and rock garden plants.

Mr. James Douglas, Edenside, Great Book-
ham, Surrey, showed vases of garden Irises
and the new hybrid Dianthus Lady Dixon.

Messrs. Carter & Co., High Holborn, made
a very pretty exhibit of their new double blue
Lobelia " Holborn Blue," utilising a number
of well-grown Gloxinias as an edging to the
group.

Messrs. Gilbert & Son, Bourne, Lincoln-
shire, displayed Anemones, Aquilegias, and
Irises. The brilliant King of Scarlets Anemone
was a notable feature. It is aptly named. (Sil-
ver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. Anthony Waterer, Knap Hill Nur-
series, Woking, Surrey, displayed a dozen varie-
ties of Rhododendrons, in trusses, on exhibition
boxes.

Messrs. V. & B. Haig, Castle Hill Nurseries,
Maidenhead, showed a new Zonal Pelargonium
of strong-growing habit, with large rose-pink
flowers named Queen of Denmark.

Mr. Maurice Prich.ard, Christchurch, Hants,
made a magnificent contribution of hardy
flowers, which exhibited the excellent cultiva-
tion usually seen in collections from this nur-
sery. In the centre were flowers of some of
the showiest varieties of Oriental Poppies, and,
in addition, we noticed Heucheras, including
H. Plume de Feu, a variety with brilliantly-
coloured flowers of larger size than those of H.
sanguinea ; Aster sub-coeruleus, Liliums pyrenai-
cum and Szovitzianum, Campanula glomerata,
double and single I'a^onies, Hemerocallis flava,
and flowers of many other good border plants.
(Silver-Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. W. Bull & Sons, King's Road, Chel-
sea, exhibited a small group of stove and green-
house foliage plants. Dracaena Prince Monuk
Bey, with reddish, sword-like leaves, is a very
effective variety.

Messrs. Jno. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill Nur-
series, London, S.E., made a large exhibit of
Streptocarpus. The plants of this strain only
develop foliage of moderate size, but the flowers
are numerous, and exhibit great variety of
colour.

The Guildford Hardy Plant Company,
Guildford, exhibited a small collection of hardy
flowers.

Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth Nurseries,
Devonshire, contributed some very good varie-
ties of decorative Pelargoniums, showing well-
grown plants in pots, also flowers of some pretty
varieties of Papaver orientale. (Silver Flora
Medal.)

Mr. T. E. Waltham, 97, Upper Tulse Hill,
S.W., exhibited stereoscopic coloured photo-
graphs of flowers, the effects of which were
startlingly real. Mr. Waltham stated that his
process of reproducing nature in colours differs
somewhat from the three-colour process of
colour photography, but he relies upon the
negative to give him the colour-values of the
object to be photographed. The three-colour
process, while theoretically perfect, is not yet
altogether successful in actual application, the
breaking up and subsequent re-blending of the
three primary constituents of white light pre-
senting considerable technical difficulties. Mr.
Waltham utilises the camera and its accesso-
ries up to the very last stage in his process,
but here, at the point at which practice begins,
as it were, to get out of step with optical theory
and to lag behind, he substitutes an after-treat-
ment of his own devising, and with most suc-
cessful results.

Awards of Merit.

Gloriosa Hothschijdiana citrina. — This is aa in-
teresting variety of the magnificent species, and
was illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle^ Sep-
tember 16, 1!<05. The flowers are yellow, except
towards the centre, which is greenish, and there
is also a purple mark along the centre of each
segment. Shown by the Hon. Walter Roth-
schild, Tring Park.

Papaver orientale " Mrs. Perry." — The flowers
are of rosy or reddish salmon colour, with
black blotch on each segment.

P. orientale ^^ Queen Alexandra.'' — This
variety is of pure salmon colour, the segments
being also blotched as in the preceding variety.
Both the Papavers were shown by Mr. Amos
Perry, Winchmore Hill Nurseries.

June lu, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

393

Tihododendron Comer Wa, 'rcr. — This is one of
the newer varieties of hardy Rhododendrons, it
being four or five years since it was first exhi-
bited. The flowers are white flushed with pink,
with yellow spotting on the uppermost segment,
and are produced in dense " trusses." The leaves
of this variety are about 3J inches in width, giv-
ing to the plant a very handsome appearance.
We have reproduced at fig. 100 a photograph of
the plant placed before the Floral Committee.

Rhodi^dciidron " Viscount Foiucrscoiirt.^'' — A
hardy variety, with vinous red flowers and pro-
minent blackish markings on the upper seg-
ments. These Rhododendrons were shown by
Messrs. Jxo. Waterer fr Sons, Ltd., Bagshot,
who had also a pink variety named Moonshine
that may be recommended for its charming and
attractive flowers.

Verbena " Snow/laic." — A pure white variety

Wageneri, with eight flowers, backed by the
brilliant crimson Masdevallia Harryana. The
forms of Cattleya Mossiae included the beautiful
C. M. Mrs. Egenton Gjey, like a good C. Reineck-
iana, but v.ikh a lavender tint on the flowers ; and
beside it a\ery I aidsume form of C. Heineck.ana.
Among fine hybrids were Zygonisia Rolfeana X,
with pretty sprays of blue-tinted flo-wers ; forms
of Laelio-Cattleya Martineti, L.-C. Canhamiana,
L.-C. Dora magnifica, and other Ltelio-Catt-
leyas ; Odontoglossum Wilckeanum, O. Rolfeae,
Cypripedium Gowerianum raagnificum, &c. Of
species and varieties noted were a good s:lec-
tion of Odontoglcssum citrosmum, with one of
O.-c. album ; Oncidium mcoachicum, O. macran.
thum, and other large-flowered Oncidiums,
Brassavola Digbyana, Thunia Marshalliana, T.
Veitchiana, Aerides crassifolium, Phalaenopsis-
Schroderiana, &c.

Fig. i6o. — pl.\nt of rhododendron gomek w.\terer: flowers white,

flushed with pink.

(Awarded an Award of Merit by the R.H.S Floral Committee ou Tuesday last.)

of V. hybrida, apparently of the same habit as
Miss Willmott and others of that section. Shown
by Messrs. W. Cutbush & Sons, Highgate.

Orchid Committee.

Present : J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the
chair), and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (hon. sec), De
B. Crawshay, \V. A. Bilney, H. Little, Francis
Wellesley, Arthur Dye, R. G. Thwaites, G. F.
Mocie, H. T. Pitt, A. A. McBean, F. Menteith
Ogilv«, H. G. Morris, J. ChprleswoTth, W. H.
Young, W. H. White, H. A. Tracy, W. Bolton,
W. Boxall, H. Ballantine, and Harry J. Veitch.

Sir Frederick Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn,
East Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Yo'jng), w?s awarded
a Silver-Gilt Flora Medal for a very nice group
of choice varieties. The centre was a grand
specimen of the pia;s white Catlleya liossias

IT. S. GooDSON, Esq., Fairlawn, Putney (gr.
l\Ir. G. E. Day), received a Silver-Gi t Flora
Medal for an extensive group, very effectively
arranged. At the back were good Cymbidium
Lowianum and other species with graceful
sprays, the group being made up of large-
flowered Cattleyas, Lffilio-Cattley;is. Odonto-
glossums, S-c, the front finished with pale rose-
coloured Miltonia vexillaria and Maidenhair
Ferns, .\mong the Cattleyas, the bast were C.
Mendeli, H. A. Tracy (which had previously
secured 'an award), and C. M. Herbert Goodson,
both fine flowers, with carmine crimson front to
the lip. The La;lio-Cattleyas included a very
richly-coloured L:-C. Fascinator, a specially
fine flower, with very dark claret-prrple front to
the lip; a good L'-C. Wellsiana. and several
exccl'ent L.-C. Canhamiana. The Odontoglos-
sums had one or two spotted forms, and others

remarked were Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-
Mossia;, &c.

Messrs. Charleswoeth & Co. staged a fine
group, in which the Laslio Cattleyas were speci.
ally well displayed, the forms of L.-C. Canha-
miana and L.-C. Fascinator being in great
variety. L.-C. Canhamiana King Edward VII.
was a very handsome dark variety ; L.-C. Aphro.
dite, "Brightness," a neat form with a dark
velvety crimson front to the lip ; two excellent
L.-C. Clive well represei t.d that pretty hybrid;
L.-C. G. S. Ball gave bright orange colour ; and
others appeared to advantage. The Odonto-
glossums included good O. crispum, t>e pretty
hybrid O. Fhosbe, O. crispo-Harryanum, &c.,
and others noted were a nice lot of Phalaenopsis
Rimestadtiana, and the fine P. violacea Heaton
variety, &c. (Silver-Gilt Flora Medal.) ^,

F. Menteith Cgilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery,
Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), had a charming
little group, the centre of which was composed of
varieties of Cypripedium callosum Sanderse and
C. Maudiffi, and the two sides of a number of ex-
cellently well-flowered white Cypripedium
niveum. Mr. Ogilvie also showed Cattleya
Moss a; Wageneri. xanthoglossa, and C. M. W.
Stella, Cypripedium bellatulum album, C.
HonorEE, C. Lawrebel, " Shrubbery variety," and
a few others. (Silver-Gilt Binksian Medal.)

Sir Trevor Lawrence, B:;rt., Burford (gr. Mr.
W. H. White), showed a fine and interesting
selection of rare Orchids, in the centre of which
was a specimen of the elegant orange-coloured
Dendrobium Jerdonianum, covered with
bloom ; with it were the bright yellow Laelio-
Cattleya Sunrise ; several typical Odontoglos-
sum crispum, one having a spike of s xteen largo
flowers ; Masdevallia Harryana miniata, bright
scarlet ; M. H. luteo-oculata, M. Lindeni pur-
purea, M. Barlaeana, Cattleya Eurydice, Epi-
dendrum paniculatum, with a large head of
pretty rose-pink flowers ; the singular little E.
organense, E. atropurpuieum Randii, and other
Epidendrums. Several fine'y-flowered Thunias,
Brasso-Cattleya striata, Angraecum Scottianum,
the singular dwarf Polystachya zambesiaca, and
others enumerated in the list of Awards. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans, staged a
fincgroup, in which were several remarkable
Odontoglossums, the most distinct of which
was O. Fascinator " Our King," raised from a
good O. crispum crossfd with a fine O. Adriana;.
The little plant had a flower very closely like a
good blotched O. crispum, but with propor-
tionately broader segments than O. crispum
even of the best type generally displays. The
s'ipals were nearly as broad as long, and almost
tqual to the petals, and the lip was also finely
formed, traces of O. Adrians being visible in
the slight brown fringing of the basal part of
the lip. The pretty flower was white, evenly
blotched with chestnut brown. O. ardentis-
simum was shown in a good variety, finely
marhed with rose-purple, and among the Laelio-
Cattleyas were a good series of L.-C. Can-
hamiana, including var. Melejr, with glowing
and richly-co'oured flowers. Others remarked
were a very dark-co'oured Cymbidium Huttoni,
a small lot of the pretty Phaius Cooksonae, w;th
eight spikes, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, staged a group in which their excellent
strain of Cattleya Mendeli was well represented.
.4mong them were good typical coloured forms
and some very pretty light varieties, the most
promising of which was C.-M. "The Queen,"
a very delicate blush-white flower. Also in the
group were Cattleya Moss'as, some showy Laelio-
Cattleyas, Odontoglossum hastilabium, Epiden-
drum radicans, Oncidium comigerum, O. leuco.
chilum, Anguloa Clowesii, varieties of LiEno
purpurata, &c. (Silver Flora Medal.) v. '

Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), se::t the finely-coloured Cy-
pripedium Lawrenosanum Hackbridgenss, C.-L.
" Westfield variety," a very large and finely-
formed flower with broad, flat dorsal sepal ; C.
Lawrenceano-br,rb:-tum, a massive flower well
intermediate between Lawrenceanum and C.
barbatum grandiflorum ; Lslio-Cattleya Pacuvia
gigantea, a fine improvement on the original,
L.-C. Mrs. F. Gould (Lawre-Mossiae X tene-
brosa), of a very light rose colour, veined with
claret-Durple and with bright ruby-purple lip ;
and the chastely-tinted C. Mendeli, Mrs.
Frederick Knollys. (See Awards.)

Jeremiah Colman, Esq., Gatton Park, Rei-

394

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 16, 1906.

gate (gr. Mr. W. P. Bound), sent four varieties
of Cattleya Mossise of excellent quality, and in-
cluding the fine old varieties aurea and Dor-
maniana ; also Laslio-Cattleya Martineti, L.-C.
Canhamiana, " Gatton Park variety"; L.-C.
Canhamiana alba, a very handsome white-
petalled form with crimson-purple front to the
lip; and L.-C. Phoebe, "Gatton Park variety,"
a rich orange-coloured flower, with claret-
coloured front to the lip. Both the latter se-
cured Diplomas.

Baron Sir H. Schkoder (gr. Mr. Ballantine)
sent Cymbidium insigne (Sanderi), "The Dell
variety," a very fine white flower, with the large
labellum closely marked with rose-purple ; C.
superbiens-Curtisii, a large flower and well in-
termediate ; and the grand white-petalled Catt-
leya MossiEe Reineckiana, " The Baron." (See
Awards.)

J. GuRNEY Fowler, Esq., Glebelands, South
Woodford (gr. Mr. Davis), showed a large
broad-petalled form of Laelio-Cattleya Can-
hamiana.

Henry Little, Esq., Baronshalt, Twicken-
ham (gr. Mr. Howard), sent Cypripedium Cur-
tisii exquisitum, a large variety with distinctly
marked leaves, and C. Javanico-superbiens,
"Little's variety," which is nearest to C. super-
biens and a good large flower.

AWARDS.

First Cl.\ss Certificate.

Cattleya Mossia Hcineckiana " The Baron,"
from Baron Sir H. Schroder (gr. Mr. Ballan-
tine). A noble flower of large size and broad
in all its parts. Sepals and petals pure white.
Lip very broad and crimped at the margin, beau-
tifully freckled and tinged with rose-purple of
varying shades.

Cattleya Mossice Victoria Hegina, from Messrs.
Stanley & Co., Southgate. Sepals and peta's
white, delicately tinged with lavender ; lip
broad, freckled with pale bluish purple. A very
fine and distinct flower.

AwAKDS OF Merit.

Cattleya Mcndeli " Airs. Frederick Knollys"
from Francis Wellesley, Esq., Westfield (gr.
Mr. Hopkins). One of the most beautiful and
delicatelj'-tinted forms of C. Mendeli, resem-
bling the albino C. M. alba, but with a slight
and delicately-blended tinge of blush-pink on
the petals and front of the lip, the disc of which
is pale yellow. A charming flower.

Oncidium monacMcum, from Sir Frederick
Wigan, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. Young). A fine
species of the O. serratum section. Dorsal
sepal, broad, concave, and arching over the
petals, which are crisped and united at the pale
yellow margins, the rest of the flower being
brown. Sepals ovate, stalked, lip ligulate.

LcElio-Cattleya Kathleen Grey, from Sir
Frederick Wigan, Bart. A showy and distinct
flower between L.-C. Canhamiana and L. tene-
brosa, of a bright and attractive colour, show-
ing much of L. tenebrosa.

Thunia Veitchiana, " Burford variety," from
Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. -H.
White). An improved form of a very graceful
hybrid. The tall leafy stems bore drooping
racemes of pretty white flowers with dark-rose
purple markings on the lip, the disc being red-
dish orange.

Odontoglossum crispum xanthotes Walkcrce,
from W. C. Walker, Esq., Percy Lodge,
Winchmore Hill (gr. Mr. Bunney). A flne form
with pure white flowers having several orange-
coloured blotches.

Phalanopsis violacea, " Heaton -variety " from
Messrs. Charleswokth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford. A large and finely-formed variety of true
P. violacea.

Lalio-CattUya Canhamiana " Meteor," from
Messrs. Sander & Sons, St. Albans. A very
handsome and brightly-coloured form, the front
of the lip being of a glowing purplish crimson
colour.

Botanical Certificates.

Luddemannia Pescatorci, from Miss WiLL-
MOTT, Warley Place, Great Warley, Essex (gr.
Mr. F. Gooch). A remarkable and rare species
having the growth of an Acineta, and a pendulous
inflorescence some 4 feet in length, the lower
third bearing attractive flowers with the sepals
yellow marked with purple-brown, petals and
lip yellow, the fleshy lip having the front lobe
triangular and continued into a reflex apex ; the
disc is hairy, and has a raised fleshy callus and

some crimson spots at the base. It has been
flowered previously at Kew and Glasnevin.

Quekettia Jcnmani, from Sir TREVOR Law-
rence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H. White). A singular
tufted little plant with hard leaves 2 inches in
length and numbers of small whitish flowers.

Epidcndruin confusum, from Sir TREVOR
Lawrence, Bart. A pretty species resembling
a very large E. fragrans Flowers creamy white
with purple lines on the lip.

Diploma Awards.

Cypripedium Lawrenceanum. — ist Diploma.
— C. Lawrenceanum Hackbridgense, from
Francis Wellesley, Esq. 2nd Diploma. — C.
Lawrenceanum Marjorie (of C. L. Hyeanum
class), from F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq.

C. Lawrenceanum Hybrids. — ist Diploma. —
C. gigas " Oxoniensis, from F. Menteith
Ogilvie, Esq. 2nd Diploma.— C Maudiae,
from Menteith Ogilvie, Esq.

Cattleya Mossi.e. — ist Diploma. — C. Mos-
siae Reineckiana " The Baron," from Baron Sir
H. Schroder. 2nd Diploma. — C. Mossias
Wageneri Stella, from F. Menteith Ogilvie,
Esq.

C. M0SS1.E Hydrids. — ist Diploma. — L.-C.
Phcebe, " Gatton Park variety ; 2nd Diploma. —
L.-C. Canhamiana alba, both from Jeremiah
Colman, Esq.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

A fruiting branch of the Cherry Friihste der
Mart cut from a standard tree growing in the
open ground was exhibited by Messrs. P.\UL cS:
Sons, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt. The variety
is exceedingly early, for the fruits were already
coloured light red.

Award of Merit.
Cucumber Bounteous. — Fruits of this new
Cucumber were shown by Mr. S. Mortimer,
Rowledge Nurseries, Farnham. It was raised
from a cross effected between the varieties
Delicacy and Progress. The fruits shown were
18 inches or more long, of perfect form, and
having dark-coloured, smooth skin.

THE LECTURE.
At the afternoon meeting there were 118 can-
didates for Fellowship elected, and Sir George
Watt read an exhaustive paper on " Tea and
the Tea Trade." Sir George Watt, who is the
author of a standard work on Indian economic
products, referred to the introduction of tea to
this country, its high price and duty, and the
subsequent reduction of price ; the present con-
sumption of Tea per year in different countries,
from which it appears that the United Kingdom
comes third with 8.441b. per head. Western Aus-
tralia being first and South Australia second.
The discovery of the Tea plant in India, and its
rediscovery in Assam ; the controversy of bot-
anists in regard to the identity of the plant.
Fortune's mission to China, and other interest-
ing subjects connected with the history of Tea
formed the first part of the paper. In the
second part Sir George Watt reviewed the pre-
sent condition of the industry, described
superior and inferior Tea plantations, the rules
of cultivation that should be observed in planta-
tions, &c. He said planters should not be
blenders, but should grow one variety alone,
and do all they can by " rogueing " to keep
their entire stock to one variety. The very best
Tea is obtained when in picking only the bud
and one leaf are taken, but even if the bud and
two leaves are used the " gathering " is of better
quality than formerly. Sir George also showed
a very large number of lantern slides and other
specimens illustrative of the subject. The
papers will be very valuable for reference when
it is published iii the Society's Journal. Sir
Jno. T. D. Llewelyn, Bart., presided at the
meeting, which was only poorly attended.

ROYAL BOTANIC.

June 13, 14, 15. — The great summer exhibi-
tion of the above Society was held on these
dates in the Society's gardens. Regent's Park.
The spacious grounds enabled the exhibiting of
large displays of horticultural implements, etc.,
in addition to the usual exhibits of flowers and
fruits. The exhibits were accommodated in
tents, and around about on the lawns were ex-
hibited conservatories, summer-houses, lawn-
mowers, garden tents, statuary, fountains, gar-

den seats, and many horticultural sundries. In
the large conservatory but one exhibit was dis-
played. This was a splendid collection, of
orchard house trees — Peaches, Nectarines and
Plums, shown by Messrs. Rivers. The Roses
shown by Mr. Geo. Mount were an outstand-
ing feature of the show ; indeed it would be
difficult to find a better collection at any flower
show. Hardy flowers were much in evidence,
while good groups of Sweet Peas, Carnations,
and Herbaceous Calceolarias were also seen.
The Australian Colonies sent exhibits of fruits,
cereals, timbers, and other colonial products.
The attendance during the opening day was
numerous, the weather being fine, although over-
cast. Messrs. Waterer's Rhododendrons at-
tracted many visitors, the plants being just now
at their best condition.

Messrs. Tiios. Rivers & Sons, Sawbridge-
worth, Herts, displayed three groups of pot
fruit trees, principally Peaches, Nectarines, and
Plums. One group was to the right of the main
entrance of the conser\"atory, and was composed
of Early Rivers' Nectarines. Another similar
group on the left was comprised of plants of
Cardinal Nectarine, Peach Duke of York, Crim-
son Galande Peach (a magnificent specimen),
and Early Rivers' Nectarine. Another large
group immediately opposite the entrance era-
braced plants of the new Peregrine Peach and
Early Prolific Plum. All the trees were in
splendid condition, and were carrying heavy
crops of well-finished fruits. (Large Gold
Medal.)

Mr. S. Mortimer, Rowledge, Farnham, Sur-
rey, exhibited his new Cucumber described on
this page, and a collection of American Carna-
tions. (Silver Medal.)

Mr. Kelp, gardener to Miss Adamson, South
Villa, Regent's Park, received a cultural com-
mendation for a box of Dr. Hogg Peaches.
They were beautiful fruits, splendidly coloured.
Lady Northcliffe, Sutton Park, Guildford
(gr., Mr. J. Goatley), staged a large group of
herbaceous Calceolarias. The plants were mag-
nificent specimens, and were nicely displayed in
a setting of Ferns. Lady Northcliffe also
exhibited many hardy flowers. (Gold Medal.)

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill I'ark,
Middlesex, staged a group of Carnation plants
and others of Metrosideros floribunda. The
Carnations were almost all of the Souvenir de
la Malmaison type. (Large Silver Medal.)

H. L. Bischoffsheim, Esq., Warren House,
Stanmore (gr., Mr. C. J. Ellis), put up a large
semi-circular group of Souvenir de la Mal-
maison Carnations. Some of the blooms were
exceptionally large. (Large Silver-Gilt Medal.)
Edward Wagg, Esq., The Islet, Maidenhead
(gr., Mr. D. Phillips), showed a semi-circular
group of Carnations. The display occupied the
end of one of the tents. Some nice plants ct
the vellow Cecilia were noticed.. (Silver-Gilt
Medal.)

Mr. Chas. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough,
furnished one end of the central tent with a
group of Roses, with other groups of Carna-
tions and hardy Ferns on either side. Many
climbing varieties were seen in the Rose group,
of which bunches of garden varieties occupied
the foreground. Among the Carnations were
some choice specimens of the popular Princess
of Wales and Calypso varieties. (Large Silver-
Gilt Medal.)

Mr. G. F. Waters, Deanland Road, Bal-
combe, staged a pretty exhibit of American
Carnations. (Silver-Gilt Medal.)

Beautiful as was the group of Roses shown
by Mr. George Mount, Canterbury, at the re-
cent Temple Show, the exhibit staged by him
on this occasion quite surpassed it. He had
a similar magnificent pyramid of the beautiful
Frau Karl Druschki, immense blooms of the
purest form and whiteness. Illrich Brunner
was also shown splendidly. Other beautiful
varieties, such as Mrs. John Laing, Liberty,
Catherine Mermet, Caroline Te stout, Madame
Abel Chatenay, Mrs. Ed. Mawley, &c., were
also of the same superior quality. Boxes con-
tained flowers of many less known varieties,
while at the back were trained plants of Rambler
kinds, and arches of the popular Crimson Ram-
bler. (Large Gold Medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Paul & Son, Waltham Cross,
Herts, put up a delightful group of pot Roses.
In the foreground were many beautiful Tea and
Hybrid Tea varieties, the rest of the group
being composed of tall plants of Rambler kinds.

June 16, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

395

with standards between. The new single Hia-
watha was prominent, but the most floriferous
variety seen was " The Farquhar," the plants
of which were literally smothered with long
racemes of soft pink coloured flowers. Kath-
leen is another single Rambler of much merit.
The H.T. Earl of WarwicJi was seen in good
condition. (Large Gold Medal.)

Mr. Geokge Prince, Longworth, Berks,
staged a group of garden Roses, with vases of
Tea varieties in the centre. Among these latter
was a new flower labelled Madame Constante
Soupert ; the petals are rosy-buff coloured — a
most delicate shade. The flower possesses a
commendable form. (Large Silver Medal.)

HoBUiES, Ltd., Dereham Nurseries, Norfolk,
showed Rambler Ruses, the new Vitis Henryana,
and baskets of dwarf-growing Coleus. (Silver
Medal.)

Messrs. John Waterer & Son, Bagshot, Sur-
rey, displaj'cd over li,OOU plants of Rhododen-
dron in a large tent occupying over a quarter
of an acre of ground. The plants were in their
full beauty, and the show was delightful. Al-
most all the best varieties of this handsome
fiowering shrub were represented, many being
varieties raised by Messrs. Waterer themselves
in their Bagshot Nurseries. Gomer Waterer (fig.
160) was represented by a large plant, in which
its claims to recognition were at once apparent.
Another variety that received an award was
Mum. This is a spreading white flower, with a
beautiful yellow eye. One bed was entirely
filled with varieties of Kalmia latifolia, a near
relative of the Rhododendron, with interesting
mobile anthers. (Large Gold Medal.)

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Stamford and Peter-
borough, show-ed a mi.xed collection of flowering
plants, mainly greenhouse subjects. They had
also vases of garden flowers — Aquilegias, Pyre-
thrums, Lupins, Irises, Pinks, &c. (Silver
Medal.)

Mr. Chas. W. Breadmore, Winchester, dis-
played vases of Sweet Peas in most of the newer
varieties, including the beautiful orange and
rose-coloured Helen I^ewis, which received a
certificate of merit. Mr. Breadmore also dis-
played a number of hardy flowers and a yellow
self Viola named Royal Sovereign. (Silver-Gilt
Medal.)

Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Woking Nur-
sery, Surrey, put up a collection of showy gar-
den flowers, and several boxes of choice Alpine
plants. The dwarf-growing Aster sub-cosruleus
was shown well. We also noticed several good
plants of Cypripedium parvifolium. (Large
Silver Medal.)

Messrs. HoGG & Robertson, 22, Mary Street,
Dublin, showed many border flowers — Irises,
Anemones, I.-iias, and Ranunculus asiaticus, of
which there was seen an admirable selection.
(Large Silver-Gilt Medal.)

Messrs. Barr & Sons, 11, 12, 13, King Street,
Covent Garden, staged a large number of the
curious pygmy trees from Japan, some of which
were reputed to be 150 years old. Messrs. Barr
also exhibited a large array of herbaceous and
garden flowers of the best kinds now in season.
(Gold Medal.)

Messrs. G. & A. Clark, Ltd., Dover, showed
hardy flowers and rock garden plants. (Silver-
Gilt Medal.)

Mr. R. Rasmussen, Eastville Nurseries, Wal-
tham Cross, displayed many plants of single
Petunias, such as are used for bedding pur-
poses. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Kelway & Son, Langport, Somerset,
staged large groups of Paeonies, Pyrethrums,
Delphiniums, and Lupins. Among the Paeonies
were several new varieties. Lady Newnes is a
new " single." The colour is rose-pink. Sir
Arthur Middleton, another single, is also new,
the colour being crimson. (Gold Medal.)

Messrs. John Peed & Son, West Norwood,
London, S.E., had a small but exceedingly
pretty display of Gloxinias, Begonias, and Strep,
tocarpus. Adjoining these, the same firm dis-
played a group of Japanese Maples interspersed
with flowering Clematis, and a collection of
Alpine plants and hardy flowers. (Silver-Gilt
Medal.)

Mr. John R. Box, West Wickham, staged a
small rock garden and water pool, furnished
with appropriate plants. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Reamsbottom & Co., -\lderborough
Nurseries, Geashill, ICing's Co., Ireland, showed
many vases of St. Brigid Anemones. (Silver
Medal.)

Mr. W. J. Godfrey, Exmouth, Devon, dis-
played baskets of show and regal Pelargoniums,
including the beautiful Godfrey's Pride, a semi-
double frilled flower, with a scarlet band round
the frill, and many light forms of the border
Poppy — Papaver orientale. (Silver-Gilt Medal.)

Mr. Amos Perry, Winchmore Hill, London,
N., showed a selection of hardy flow^ers in sea-
son, including many light shaded flowers of the
Oriental Poppies. (Large Silver-Gilt Medal.)

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond, Surrey, staged
many vases of Pyrethrums, with a border of
Ficus radicans variegata, Marantas, &c. (Small
Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Watkins & Simpson, 12, Tavistock
Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C, showed
an admirable collection of Sweet Peas. The
variety Mrs. Alfred Watkins is blush-rose in
colour, the standards are broad, and the flowers
are produced in fours on each stem. This variety
received an Award of Merit, as did also the
varieties E. J. Castle (rose-magenta) and Frank
Dolby (lavender). (Large Silver-Gilt Medal.)

Colonial Exhibits.

The Victoria (Australia) State Department
OF Agriculture displayed many tinned, bottled,
and dried fruits from the colony ; also timbers,
compressed vegetables, honey, preserves, &c.
(Silver Gilt Medal.)

Western Australia showed a number of
dishes of Apples, all commercial varieties, such
as may be seen at the present time in Covent
Garden Market. The same State exhibited
cereals, wool, timbers, gums, &c. (Silver Gilt
Medal.)

South Australia sent a large display of fresh
fruits, principally Apples and Pears. We
noticed the handsome Raspberry Pippin that
attracted much attention at the recent colonial
show at Westminster. Quinces are grown every-
where in the colony, and the large samples seen
were sent to test the demand for this fruit in
our home markets. Besides fresh fruits were
seen dried and bottled fruits, wines, nuts,
raisins, sultanas, &c. (Gold Medal.)

Miscellaneous Exhibits.

Among the miscellaneous groups Gold Medals
were awarded to Messrs. Ransomes, Sims &
JEFFERIES, Orwell Works, Ipswich, for motor
and hand lawn-mowers ; to Messrs. Thos. Green
& Son, Ltd., Southwark Street, London, S.E.,
for lawn-mowers ; Jlessrs. Alex. Shanks & Son,
Ltd., Bush Lane House, Cannon Street, Lon-
don, E.C., for lawn-mowers; Messrs. Duncan
Tucker & Co., Ltd., Tottenham, London, N.,
for conservatories and plant-houses.

Large Silver Gilt Medals to Messrs. Meerv-
WEATHER & Sons, Ltd., for garden engines,
hose piping, pumps, syringes, &c. ; Messrs.
DOULTON it Co., Lambeth, S.E., for garden pots,
ornamental vases, pedestals, &c. ; Messrs. Henry
Castle & Sons, Ltd., Baltic Wharf, Millbank,
Westminster, S.W., garden seats; Messrs. John
Unite, 291-293, Edgware Road, W., tents and
garden furniture ; Mr. G. W. Riley, Heme Hill,
London, S.E., for rustic summer-houses, seats,
&c. ; Messrs. Pearce & Co., 644, Holloway
Road, London, N., for greenhouses.

Silver Medal. — Mr. James Williams, 4a, Ox-
ford Road, Ealing, for floral decorations ; Mr.
Geo. H. Sage, 71, Manor Road, Richmond, for
flower displayers ; Messrs. Liberty & Co.,
Regent Street, London, for artistic garden pot-
tery.

LINNEAN SOCIETY.

June 7. — Professor W. A. Herdman, F.R.S.,
President, in the chair.

The President announced that he had nomi-
nated the following as Vice-Presidents for the
ensuing year: — Rev. Canon Fowler, Mr. Horace
W. Monckton, Lt.-Col. Prain, and Dr. A.
Smith W'oodward.

The General Secretary exhibited a small oil-
painting on panel of Linnaeus, after Pasch (sight
measure 9:^ by 7Jin.), the property of Mr. Black,
well, which he had acquired as a portrait of
Jean Jacques Rousseau (the Linnasa having been
taken for pimpernel). He had detected the
error by the close correspondence of a print
engraved by C. E. V\''agstaff, and published by
Charles Knight for the Society for the Diffusion
of Useful Knowledge. This print purported to
be engraved from a portrait in the possession
of Robert Brown, but it displayed a curtailment

of the figure and accessories from the picture by
L. Pasch which Robert Brown gave to this
society in 1853 on his quitting the chair, the
history of which is well known [Froceedings,
1888-90, pp. 24-25). The question was raised,
could this small picture have been also in the
possession of Robert Brown?

The first paper was by Mr. H. H. Haines,
F.L.S., ''On two new Species of Populus from
Darjeeling," which, in the absence of the
author, was read by Mr. C. B. Clarke, and illus-
trated by a series of photographs. Populus
ciliata, Royle, was re-dcscr.bed„ and the two
new species characterised, namely, P. Gamblei,
which may or may not be the species described
by Dode from imperfect material, and P. glauca,
Haines. Excellent material had been sent by
the author, and had been shared between the
National Herbaria of Kew and the British
Museum.

Dr. G. H. Fowler presented two further re-
ports dealing with Biscayan Plankton collected
during a cruise of JI.M.S. '"Research" in 1900.

The last paper read was by Dr. Maxwell T.
Masters, F.R.S., F.L.S., "On the Conifers of
China," which was read in abstract by the
General Secretary ; it described the whole coni-
terfous flora now known, including the recent
discoveries of Mr. E. H. Wilson and B. Hayata ;
no fewer than eight new species are fully set out,
five of these being of the genus Picea.

GAEDENEKS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT
INSTITUTION.

ANXUAf. DINNER.
donations amount to £2,121.

June 13. — The sixty-seventh annual festival
dinner in aid of this institution took place on
Wednesday evening last at the Hotel Metropole.
The Rt. Hon. Lord Balfour of Burleigh pre-
sided over a very large company. He was sup-
ported on the right by Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., and on the left hand by Sir Walter
Smythe, Bart. For the rest the company repre-
sented all branches of horticulture.

After the Royal toasts had been celebrated
with enthusiasm. Lord Balfour rose to pro-
pose the toast of the evening, that of " Con-
tinued Prosperity to the Gardeners' Royal
Benevolent Institution." He thanked the
audience for their reception, and said he hoped
that nothing he should say would prevent them
from translating that enthusiasm into hard cash
before leaving. The institution was by no
means a young one. It was also under Royal
patronage, and this is never given in this coun-
try to an unworthy object. The institution had
distributed a sum of money equal to £100,000
among deserving gardeners and their widows.
Its management was above reproach. The work
was done chiefly by amateurs, who did it freely
and for the love they had for those who received
the benefits. There were some 220 persons on
the list of pensioners, and these required
something like £4,000 a year. Beyond this,
there were about 24 applicants which had been
approved by the committee as needy and deserv-
ing, yet the funds were not sufficient to enable
the committee to afford relief. There were of
recent establishment two funds which he (the
Chairman) thought were the corollary of the
movement. The Victorian Era Fund was for
the benefit of subscribers whilst awaiting elec-
tion. The Samaritan Fund was the means of
affording help to those in need who had not
contributed to the funds, and for affording tem-
porary help to those who, perhaps, would be in-
eligible for receiving permanent benefit. His
lordship then read three letters, which showed
how much the pensioners were helped by the
aid the institution was enabled to afford them.
One was from an ordinary pensioner, and the
others from gardeners who had benefited from
the two newer funds. The interest from in-
vested funds was now £1,500, and the present
expenditure cannot be kept below £4,000 ; there-
fore, it is necessary to raise £2,500 each year,
and this to meet existing circumstances only.
But in these days it was necessary also to make
progress. Did he need to meet objectors who
would talk of political economy? His lordship
then went on to explain the circumstances under
which gardeners who had done the very best
they could to provide for their declining years,
yet by, maybe, the wrong-doing of others, or, at
any rate, by circumstances over which they had

396

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[Jr.NE l(i, 1906.

no control, were eventually reduced to a con-
dition of poverty. Gardei'ing, said his lord-
ship, is a precious bond of union to those who
partake in it, and there was no profession
which is more generous to the success of others.
After reciting several humorous anecdotes bear-
ing upon the question, his lordship asked in
terse and appealing words ; " Have I made out
ray case?" I know, said he, you sympathise,
but how much do you sympathise? It is that
which interests me and that interests Mr.
Veitch, your treasurer. His lordship resumed
his seat amid loud and continued applause.
The toast was coupled with the name of Mr.
Harry J. Veitch, treasurer, who said it was his
privilege once again to return thanks for the
institution. :Lord Balfour, by his most elo-
quent speech, had placed him in a more diffi-
cult position than usual. If he felt any diffi-
culty in replying tor the institution, there was
one point in which he had no difficulty, and
one in which he would carry every member of
the company with him, and that was in thank-
ing his lordship for his presence that night, and
for his eloquent pleading of their cause. Mr.
Veitch then proceeded to relate some interest-
ing particulars, amongst which he stated that
the two oldest pensioners now on the fund were
two widows. One of these widows succeeded
to the pension of £16 per year after the death
of her husband, who had previously received
£20 per year. At an earlier date the husband
had contributed 18 guineas to the funds of the
institution, and subsequently he was paid £304,
and his widow has received £377, making a
total of £681 ! Another family furnished an in-
stance of nearly similar circumstances, and the
two families together had received £1,066, whilst
they had contributed only £42. Was not the
institution benevolent, asked Mr. Veitch? Mr.
Veitch then referred to the fact that this year
will complete the twentieth year that he has
been treasurer to the institution. The funds 20
years ago supported 118 pensioners at a cost of
£1,655 a year, but now the number is 220, and
the cost £4,000. The investments were
£21,000 then, against £40,000 at the present
time. Their warm-hearted and liberal friend
Mr. N. N. Sherwood was a trustee then, as
now, and Mr. Willard was even then an audi-
tor. There were still three members of the
committee also who were members at that date,
but they had not then the services of their valu-
able secretary, Mr. Ingram. The needs of the
institution have grown very much, but Mr.
Veitch explained many circumstances that,
taken together, render it less easy than formerly
to obtain money. Great praise was given the
'■ auxiliaries," and Mr. Veitch announced that
£100 had been received that night from Worces-
ter, making the sum contributed by this auxiliary
up to £1,000, Reading was doing equally well,
but had not been so long established, and other
branches in different towns were affording valu-
able aid. Owners of gardens had thrown open
their gardens for the benefit of the institution.
The late Lord and the present Lady Ilchester
had been very kind, and sums of money had
also been received from the musical societies
connected with the names of " Monro " and
" Sherwood." The executive was thankful for
these and all other sources of income.

The toast of " Horticulture in all its
Branches" was proposed in a sympathetic
speech by Mr. Leonard Sutton, and re-
sponded to by Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart.,
who took the opportunity to announce that
the receipts at the Temple Show this year
were £1,624, and the expenses £644, there being
a clear profit of £980. The invested funds of
the Royal Horticultural Society amounted to
£18,600, and they had on deposit a further
sum of £3,500. Sir Trevor referred to the dis-
tribution of plants and seeds from Wisley and
other interesting circumstances.

The toast of "Our Chaiiman" was proposed
by Mr. Jeremiah CoJuia.u.

The Chairman's List.

Mr. G. J. Ingram, secretary, announced that
the sums on the chairman's list amounted to
£2,121. Amongst the principal donations were
those following : — Messrs. Rothschild and Sons,
100 guineas ; James Veitch and Sons, 100
guineas ; Da'id W. Thomson (from friends in
Scotland), £102; Covent Garden tables (George
Monro), £135, (D. Ingamells), £62; Arthur W.

Sutton, £50; Messrs. Hurst and Son, 50
guineas ; Jeremiah Colman, Esq., 50 guineas ;
"Hurst and Son' Musical Society, £50;
Leonard Sutton, Esq., £50 ; Messrs. W"ood and
Son, £30 ; itc.

The floral decorations of the tables and room
were beyond praise There was one principal
table, with six others extending from it. On
the principal table the decorations were exceed-
ingly choice and of a mixed character, includ-
ing plants of Nepenthes growing in baskets.
On the two central tables extending from this
the flowers were entirely of Souvenir de la Mal-
maison Carnations. On the next two tables
they were exclusively Roses, and on those at
the extreme sides the flowers were of tree and
mixed varieties of Carnations. At the foot of the
numerous large mirrors on the wall were ar-
ranged fine sprays of richly-coloured Cannas,
and the scheme throughout, which had been
carried through by Mr. Jas. Hudson and his
foreman, was of quite exceptional merit.

(Dlntuari).

Robert Smith Baxter.— Many of our readers
will learn with regret of the death of Mr. Robert
Smith Baxter, son of the late curator of the
Botanic Gardens, Oxford. He died recently at
Putney, in his 52nd year, from acute pneumonia.
The name of Baxter has been associated with the
Oxford Gardens for over a century, dating back to
the times of Williams andDaubeny, and the fame of
these gardens was largely due to the energy and
botanical and gardening knowledge of W. Baxter
and W. H. Baxter. Mr. R. S. Baxter w^stheson
of the late W. H. Baxter, and with him passes
away the last of the name connected with
horticulture. Mr. W. H. Baxter was for 45 years
curator of the gardens. Those who have enjoyed
the privilege of a walk through the gardens in his
company must have been impressed with his
knowledge of plants and of their requirements,
and also enjoyed his fund of interesting information
about the Oxford Gardens and the various collec-
tions therein. Mr. R. S. Baxter was his father's
chief assistant at the time of his retirement, and he
also then severed his connection with the gardens,
to start in business as a nurseryman. He inherited
his father's love for plants and also his father's
willingness to tell all he knew about them.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Beans; C.G. We are unable to identify the
species from the description you have furnished.

Carnation : F. R. The flower exhibits an abnor-
mality known as median prolification, due to a
continued growth of the floral axis. It is a
malformation rather than a disease.

Correction. The exhibition of Begonias and
Streptocarpus which our reporter inadvertently
credited to Messrs, Ware, Ltd., at the Show of
Colonial Produce held in the Royal Horticultural
Hall last week, was from Messrs. J. Peed & Son,
West Norwood.

Cucumbers Diseased: B. T. A. The plants
are affected with the canker disease. They are
too far gone to attempt any remedial measures
now, and the better plan will be to turn out tlie
plants and old soil, taking care to burn the
diseased stems. In the younger stages of the
disease lime and charcoal rubbed on the affected
parts have arrested the canker.

Daisies on Lawns: IF. C. Apply nitrogenous
manures or the advertised " Lawnsands," with
a view to causing the grass to over-grow and
smother the Daisies.

Gardeners' Cottage : Shaftesbury. We do not
consider that you can successfully make any
claim either under the Agricultural Holdings
Acts or the Allotments and Cottage Gardens
Compensation for Crops Act, 1887. nor can you
make a claim to "emblements." There is no
Act of Parliament which protects you under the
circumstances you mention. If, however, you
are allowed to grow the plants, trees, and vege-
tables for the purposes of sale, and so keep
the profits for yoiir own benefit, you had better
remov'e and sell as many of them as possible
before your engagement comes to an end If it
is impossible to remove most of them before you

leave, you had better ask your Uiasler as soon
as possible how much he will be willing to allow
you for what you leave behind, and if he refuses
to allow you anything, you should try and get
some local gentleman of position, such as your
clergyman, to speak to your master on your
behalf, or induce the British Gardeners' Asso-
ciation to represent the circumstances to the
employer. You also ask whether you must
leave the house at the date when your engage-
ment is terminated. Of course, all this depends
upon what was the actual arrangement made
between you and your employer, but the natural
inference would be that you were only to occupy
the cottage as long as you were in your master's
employment, and you would have very great
difficulty in setting up a claim that the technical
relation of landlord and tenant existed between
your master and yourself, especially if the- cottage
is on the master's estate. Lex.

Grapes : F. P. The spotting is due to the fungus
Glaeosporium ampelophagura. See reply to G.
A. in the last issue. — Aimoiis. We suspect that
the injury is due to antliracnose. Cut out all
diseased berries as soon as they appear and
burn them.

Iris Disease : F. S. The plants are attacked
with the disease referred to on p. 367 of our
last issue,, in which we give remedial measures.

Myrobalan Plum ; IF. H. IP. We can only
suggest frost as the cause of the injury. The
exceptional weather experienced this spring-
time, with mild weather followed later by liard
frosts and with periods of drought, ha\e caused
similar injuries to many outdoor plants.

Names of Plants : f. IV. Pernettya mucronata.
— Cardiff. 1 and 2, Asphodeline liburnica ;
3 and 4, Aquilegia hybrids; 5, Thalictrum
aquilegiifolium ; 6, Iris sibirica var. lactea;

7, Iris pallida ; 8 and 9, Papaver orientale
vars. ; 10, Saxifraga Aizoon ; 11, Iris aphylla ;
12, Saxifraga tenella ; 18. Mertensia sibirica ;
14, Anemone Pennsylvania, — H'. 1, Ulmus
campestris ; 2, Ulmus campesiris suberosa ;
3, Ulmus campestris. The minor forms of Elm
are very numerous, and many cannot be recog-
nised e.xcept by seeing the tree as a whole. —
G.F. 1, Cotoneaster nummularia ; 2, Pyrus
Aria. — A . E. A good variety of Odontoglossum
Adrianse, — T. B. Both Dendrobium nobile.
The other is Odontoglossum cordatum. — /. U.
1, Campanula glomerata; 2, Alchemilla alpina ;

8, Tiarella cordifolia ; 4, Antennaria tomentosa.
— Pinehurst. Crataegus pyracantha. — .1 D. 1.
Yellow Martagon Lily, Lilium pomponium, yel-
low variety ; 2, Hesperis matronalis ; 3, Inula, not
in flower ; 4, Columbine (Aquilegia) ; 5, Vinca
major ; 6, Centranthus ruber ; 7, Thalictrum
majus. — H. L. Verbascum phceniceum (purple
flowered Mullein), Bot. Mag., tab. 885.

Nectarines and Plums Casting their Fruits :
J-1. L. It is not customary for these trees,
especially Nectarines, to drop their fruits when
about the size of Peas, and growing in a glass-
house. We think that if the atmosphere of the
house has been kept in a suitable condition, the
trouble is likely to have been caused by lack of
sufficient water at the roots. Were the trees
over-loaded and making an effort to lighten their
own burden ?

Pear Midge : /. B. The injury is caused by the
Pear Midge. Spray the trees next season, just
before the flowers are fertilised, with Paris
green. By burning the fallen fruits many of
the grubs will be destroyed.

Pear Trees : W. C. Before advice can be given
respecting the fungus, it is necessary for us to
see and examine specimens obtained from the
tree.

PoTATOs : Violet. There is no book on the sub-
ject. The advice respecting Potato haulm was
to thin the shoots proceeding from each tuber
to tv.o or three. Nothing was said about pinch-
ing the haulms that are allowed to grow. The
experiment is worth your trying.

Viola Seedlings : C. S. The flowers have no
especial merit; indeed they are inferior to the
majority of such seedings.

Communications Received.— Irish Cirdeners' Association
— R. J. A.— Maurice L. de V.— T. Rivers lV Sou— Geinlan
PoinoloKical Society— C. Vuylsteke, Gtient— J. H. V. —
F. B. -R. J. A.— L. C.— W. J. B.-G. H.-Ii. H. & Sons-
F. W. M.-G. H.. California-J. G.-J. S.— E. C. C. D.-
J. C— J. A. W.— Mrs. S. E.— J. T. S.-H. L.— W. L.-
Grower-]. P.— E. B. & Son -G. H.— G. P.— L. C— K. & S.

For .Market an.l W'eallter Reports sec page viii.

Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle."

Brasso-Cattleya "Mrs. Francis Wellesley" (reduced), the largest flower of its class,
and measuring one foot from tip to tip of sepals. colour of flowers white

with shades of yellow and rose.

(Awarded R.H.S. First-class Certificate on April 17, 1906.)

Temple Press Ltd., Printers, 7-15, Rosebery Avenue. London, E.C

June 23, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

397

THE

^arbencrs'Cbionirle

No. 7,017.— SATURDAY, June 23, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Banana stem, a curious. -iOcS
Baxter, R. S., the late ... 411
Beckford Hall, GIoucs.. 400
Bell-flowers, hybrid ... 40y
Botanical ExchangeClub 407
Calceolarias, herbaceous,

the calture of 410

Campanulas .. ... 409
Carbolic acid as a fungi-
cide

Carnations

Cattleya Mendeli " The

Queen "

Chinese note book,
leaves from my

Clover in lawns

Colonial notes —

Singapore

Eucalyptus coccifera, a
grand specimen of ...
Flower Show at Scar-
borough, a forth-
coming
Flowers in season
Gardening, lectures on
Herbaceous border —

Day-Lilies

Horticultural education

Iris bracteata

Ixora Williamsi and

others

Markets, London, and

their supplies

Morris, Sir Daniel
Orchid notes and glean
ings-

Flora Brasiliensis ...

Plumiera Uitea

Propagator, the

411
408

411

402
416

414

408
407
408

409
406
401

411

408
407

404
407
397

Plant food in soils
Primula orbicularis ...
Pruning fruit trees in

summer

Rehmannia angulata ...
Rhododendron yunnan-

ense

Rosary, the —

Cultural hints for July

Rose-list, a French ...

Societies —

Birmingham Botanical

and Horticultural ...

Gloucestershire Root,

Fruit and Grain ...

Manchester and N. of

England Orchid ...

Royal Cornwall Show

Royal Horticultural ...

(Scientific Committee)

Royal Scottish Abori-

cultural

Yorkshire Gala

Viola Blue Bell

Water gardens

Watering and mulching
Week's work, the—

Apiary, the

Flower garden, the ...
Fruits under glass ...
Hardy fruit garden ...
Kitchen garden, the...
Orchid houses, the ...
Plants under glass ...
Wye Agricultural Col-
lege

Young, Thos., presenta-
tion to

401
403

398

397
407

414
4i2
411
412

413
413
411
399
397

404
405
4(»5
405
405
404
404

407

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Beckford Hall, Gloucestershire

Campanula carpatica " White Star"

Campanula x Mayi

Iris bracteata

Plumiera lutea (Supplementary Illustration)
Primula orbicularis, a new hardy species.-.
Rhododendron yunnaueiise

400
4U9
410

4j1

403
399

WATERING AND MULCHING,

IMPORTANT as these operations are in
the hands of experienced and observant
horticulturists, they may both fall far
short of their full usefulness through the cul-
tivator ignoring a few simple facts. They
may, indeed, by neglect, be rendered posi-
tive sources of injury to the plants it is
their object to assist. A beginner in
gardening who has gained an accurate
idea of the judgment needed in watering vari-
ous plants in pots is on the high road to suc-
cess in his calling, for he will have learnt
one of the essential lessons — the value of close
observation. But it is not alone when deal-
ing with plants in pots that care and con-
sideration are requisite in the supply of water,
as such aid becomes necessary at times for
plants or trees in the open ground, and mis-
takes lead to similar unsatisfactory results.
Perhaps they are more frequent in the latter
case, as the effects are not so quickly visible,
and they are not so readily traceable to the
precise cause as when plants are grown in
pots; the end is, however, identically the
same — either stunted, deficient growth, im-
perfectly developed fruits, or a shortened life-
geriod.

If we admit that artificial supplies of water
cannot equal those from natural sources in
their beneficial influence, or, even further,
that some degree of risk is unavoidable in
such aid, still, that is not sufficient ro;ison
for neglecting to render the help which is in
our power.

Familiar as all cultivators are with the re-
sults shown by plants in pots when insuffici-
ently supplied with water, it does not seem
that the enormous transpiration which takes
place from the leaf surface of plants in the
open ground is duly recognised. Experiments
have proved that in hot, sunny weather at
this time of year the amount of evaporation
from fully-exposed plants is exceedingly great.
A deciduous tree of moderate size has been re-
corded as transpiring goolb. of water in a
single day, and even with many vegetables
the quantity given off under similar condi-
tions represents a considerable pro()ortion of
their total weight. As regards farm crops,
more definite information is available on the
subject, and it has been shown that the
cereals transpire during their short period of
growth and maturation amounts varying in
the British climate from 400 lo 600 tons of
water to produce a total weight of crop of
about two tons at the time of harvesting.

When it is considered that, in addition to
the water transpired by plant foliage, there
is constant evaporation from the bare parts
of the soil and some loss by drainage as
well, an idea can be formed of the demands
upon moisture in the land, even in ordinary
seasons. In periods of deficient rainfall the
matter assumes most serious proportions,
and with fruit or ornamental trees it is not
merely the loss of a season's crop or growth
that is affected; many future years' progress
may be unfavourably influenced.

In this as in other directions thorough
cultivation is important even if only a partial
means of preventing disaster. Well and
deeply-cultivated land will furnish stores of
moisture from its lower portions, when shal-
low and imperfectly worked soil is quite ex-
hausted of water, or, if there is any below, it
cannot rise within reach of the plant roots.
The value of humus-yielding manures in the
land is also abundantly proved at such times
by their capacity for absorbing and retaining
moisture. But when the occasion arises it is
too late to correct mistakes in previous
preparatory work, though several methods
are available by which the soil water can
be economised to the utmost advantage.

Nothing is more eflicient for this purpose
than the constant use of the hoe : a depth of
two or three inches of well pulverised and fre-
quently moved soil is equivalent to a mulch in
its moisture-preserving influence. Not only is
evaporation reduced, but the proportion in
the upper layers of the soil is increased by the
accumulation of supplies from below until the
plant roots have used them. Under some
circumstances this old and familiar means
of surface cultivation in dry weather has pro-
duced more notable effects than the use of
non-manurial mulchings. One reason for
this is that the increased aeration facilitates
nitrification where sufficient moisture is pre-
sent for the operation to proceed ; apart from
the benefit arising from weed destruction.

If mulchings of any kind are used they are
rendered more efficient by a thorough soil
stirring previous to their application, also at
intervals afterwards, though it may be neces-
sary to remove the dressing for the purpose.
Mulchings placed direct on to the hard sur-

face of unmoved soil are of little value, and
in several cases within our experience they
have produced less effect than the hoeing
alone, particularly as regards trees. For sur-
face-rooting plants and vegetables it is an
advantage to protect the soil around them
from undue heat as well as by checking the
evaporation, and then the mulching becomes
of especial service. Beyond that, when water
is supplied through manurial mulches it
washes down some support to the roots, and
at the same time keeps the surface both cool
and moist longer than would be the case on
unprotected soil.

The amount of water to be given when it
becomes a necessity is often underestimated,
and this is largely due to the want of some
guiding facts or experience. I have never
found any better means of judging what is
needed than that founded on the rainfall of
the district, taken in conjunction with the
character of the soil and the special require-
ments of the crop or tree. An inch of rain is
equal to rather more than 45 gallons per
square yard, and remembering that the
conditions are very different when artificial
watering is resorted to, compared with those
at the time rain falls, evaporation being
much greater, it may be taken that six gal-
lons per square yard is not an excessive equi-
valent for a deficit of an inch in the rainfall.
.Somewhat less suffices on the heaviest soils,
while in the lightest it may be increased with
advantage, though in a usual way supplies
do not equal those named, hence the injury
which sometimes results from inadequale
watering. It is not advocated that the total
quantity should be given at one application ;
it is better to apply it two or three times,
making use each time of about two gallons
per square yard. The water should be poured
on to the soil as gradually as possible after the
surface has been stirred. If any dissolved ma-
nurial substance is supplied with the water it
is much more efficient if used at the second
and fourth subsequent alternate waterings.
A common mistake is to supply rich stimu-
lants in too strongly concentrated form ; the
weaker solutions are more readily taken up
by the plants, are less likely to injure the
roots, and are more like soil moisture ordin-
arily at the service of the plants, whether de-
rived from organic or chemical manures. L.C.

THE PROPAGATOR.

In the present month there is much propaga-
tion needing to be done both in and out of
doors. I will take Carnations (Dianthus caryo-
phyllus) first, these being everybody's
plants and great favourites just now. At this
season the warmth of the soil is such that any
of the various tribes, tree (remontant), border,
Souvenir de la Malmaison, and the Picotees
will readily form roots from layers, and the
Pinks from cuttings.

It is seldom that the soil in which the plants
are growing is the most suitable for surround-
ing the layers ; therefore, the operator must
make a mixture of hot-bed soil, one half ; de-
cayed leaf soil, one quarter ; and sharp road
grit or coarse clean sand, quarter (washed sea
sand is suitable), or pit sand if tolerably free
from loam ; and, if not, it should be washed
in two or three witers before mixing it wit!i
the other two ingredients, one quarter. HaT-
ing prepared the mixture by repeated
turnings and siftings through a quarter-inch
meshed sieve, it will be ready for use.
The number of layers selected from a plant
may not exceed eight or nine, and may be as

398

WHE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

- [June 23, 1906.

few as three to five, accordJDg to the wishes of
the gardener, or the strength of the mother
plant. It many, are to tie taken a furrow may
be taken out round the plant, preferably with
a trowel, and at a suitable distance, so as to
accommodate the layers, or shallow holes
thrown out if but few layers arc to be made.
Let this furrow, or these holes, be half filled
vsith the prepared mixture ; then proceed to
select and trim the shoots for layering — viz.,
those which have not flowered and are of good
strength, cleansing them of the bad and de-
cayed leaves and trimming off the first pair of
green leaves. The proper point at which to
make the cut is where the first pair of leaves
were placed, just in the middle of the joint,
and on that side of the shoot that will be
turned downwards, cutting halfway through
and then upwards as far as the next joint.
The " tongue " thus formed may be separated
by inserting a barley or wheat corn, or slightly
bent away from the shoot in the process of
fixing it with a wooden hook into the soil,
otherwise the cut will close and form a callus,
and no roois will be emitted. The whole of
the layer, up to the remaining leaves, should
then be moulded up and made firm, keeping the
layer erect in so doing and the wound open.
The layers should, on the completion of the
work, receive a thorough application of water,
and afterwards whenever the soil approaches
aryness. In about six weeks the " tongue " will
have made sufficient roots to enable the layer
to live when detached from the plant, and it
may be carefully separated, taken up with a
ball of earth, and potted or bedded out.

Carnations growing under glass may be
similarly treated, small pots filled with soil
being placed around them to receive the layers.
All layered shoots should have their leaves
shortened to one half of their length. Chrysan-
themums may be similarly increased.

Pinks.
These plants are better raised from cut-
tings taken before the plants are freely in
flower, otherwise the shoots become too hard.
The same holds good for the tree Carnations,
which, when the shoots get woody in consist-
ency, make roots with difficulty, and decay
when too soft. The cuttings are cut just
under a joint, the latter split through for the
space of a quarter of an inch, and a Carnation
leaf stuck into the cleft, for the purpose of
keeping it open, cutting off closely that which
projects beyond the cleft. The cuttings are
then placed singly in " thumbs " in a peaty soil,
or several together in larger pots, and so that
the leaves do not touch each other. The cut-
ting pots may be sunk in well-moistened soil
in a half-shady place, where the morning and
evening sun can reach them, or they may be
stood in a greenhouse, shading them slightly
from the mid-day sun. Much moisture or
shade are fatal to success, and the leaves must
always be allowed to get quite dry after water
is applied if bell glasses are used for those that
are put under glass.

Tabeen^emontanas and Allamandas.
During the month of June cuttings may be
inserted of Tabernzemontana coronaria and i.
citrifolia and of the Allamandas. These may
consist of well-developed shoots 3 to 4 inches
long, from which the lower leaves should be re-
moved, so far as they are inserted in the soil,
and the cuttings laid in a shady place in the
warm house, so that the milky sap may get dry
on the wounds. The cuttings pans should be
crocked for about an inch in depth, and filled
with eqi:al parts of peat and sand ; the cuttinys
inserted "to the depth of an inch, slightly
watered in, and covered with a bell glass, whicii
must be v^ipcd out daily. j\ bottoia heat of

75°, and a moderate degree of moisture are re-
quisites.

Nepenthes.

These East Indian marsh plants form side
shoots at the lower end of the stems, and as
soon as they possess two or three pitchers they
may be severed from the plant and put singly
into small pots filled with peat and sphagnum
in equal parts. These little pots should be
placed on bits of stone, brick, etc., in a large
pan, which should be filled with water up to
the bottom of the pots, and the pan covered
with a bell or handlight, and afforded a warmth
of 80-^ to 85° Fahr. The cuttings form no
callus, but send out roots in all directions.
Azalea indica, Kalmias and Rhododen-

IIKONS.

The most suitable period for striking cuttings
of these plants is at the end of the growing
season, say at the end of June, or in July, ac-
cording to the development of the wood, which
should not be too old, as the greater proportion
of the roots emerge from the outer layer of rind,
so far as this enters the soil ; and also they form
in the air. The Azalea succeeds better in a
porous soil than in sand, as in the latter they
are apt to die from lack of nutriment when not
quickly potted ; still, it is essential to cover
the soil with a thin layer of sand. They need
much moisture, a bed facing north, and a tem-
perature of 45° to 50" throughout the winter.
If air-roots form, aftply a little clean wood moss
between the cuttings. Until plenty of true roots
have formed the cuttings should be accommo-
dated in a propagating case, or covered with
cloches provided with an opening at the top.
The potting of the cuttings should be performed
in the spring.

Chorizemas.

Cuttings of half-ripened shoots taken with a
heel or base of the older wood strike readily
this month if placed in small pots filled with
sandy peat covered with a layer of clean silver
sand. The soil should be kept in a moderately
moist conditi&n under bell glasses, and in a
greenhouse or cold pit. F. M.

THE ROSARY.

CULTURAL HINTS FOR JULY.
The staking and tying of maiden budded stocks
should now be brought to a close. All suckers
should be removed from the stocks, and if there are
any luxuriant shoots taking the lead these should be
now stopped for the benefit of the plant generally.
Budding operations will now be in full vogue, for
after the recent rains the bark of the stock will
lift freely. Standard dwarf Briars should be bud-
ded first, to be followed by the seedling Briar.
The Manetti and multiflora stocks grow later, and
can be well left till the August budding. Great
care should be taken in the selection of scions and
in choosing buds from ripened wood only. It any
doubt exists as to the proper maturation of the
buds, use only the lower ones, as they will be the
more forward ones. The buds worked on seedling
Briars should be inserted below the ground line,
as the bark at that point is more supple and opens
better. In the case of Standard Briars, should
dry weather prevail and the growth become
checked, I find pruning a few inches off the end of
each shoot induces lateral growthstodevelop, which
brings up a fresh flow of sap ; the bark will then
open freely and the operation can be successfully
performed. At the end of the month Rose-bushes
should be gone over and any weak and useless
shoots be thinned out to allow light and air to
enter to ripen the remaining ones. Roses on their
own roots that were struck from forced plants
during March and April, and which are now in
3-inch pots, can be shifted at once into their 5-inch
flowering pots. They should be plunged outside
on a sweet hot-bed putting them at distances of
1 foot apart, where they will make rapid and
robust growth, and providing the longest be

pinched back once, good bushy plants will be
formed by the autumn. Any maiden plants that
have flowered can be cut back to about two eyes,
in order tocause them to form fresh shoots, which
will bloom later on. This procedure applies especi-
ally to the hybrid Tea, China, and Bourbon varie-
ties. Those who desire to purchase Roses in the
autumn should pay a visit to the July shows, or
go to some reliable nursery where they can view
the growing plants in flower and judge of their
merits. /. D. G.

COLONIAL NOTE.

SINGAPORE.
The third of the large exhibitions of agri-
horticultural and native industries will take
place in Singapore on August IG, 17 and 18,
190G. The competitions are restricted to exhibits
from the Malay Peninsula, but exhibits are also
expected from Siam and the islands of the Malay
Archipelago. Prizes are offered for all kinds of
agricultural produce, cattle, poultry, horses, dogs,
and other animals, flowers, ferns, ornamental
plants of all kinds, fruits and vegetables, jungle
produce, such as rattans, dammars, native drugs,
and all kinds of native-made articles, curios, and
the weapons and household articles of the wild
tribes of the Malay Pe'ninsula. There will also
be an exhibition of machinery in action, especially
of that relating to the rubber industry, as well as
of tools and other apparatus shown by local
and other firms. H. N. Ridley, Director of Gardens,
S. S., and Honorary General Secretary.

RHODODENDRON YUNNAN-
ENSE, Franchet.

Among the Western Chinese Rhododendrons
thtt ar; hardy, and have flowered in this coun-
try, there are two that stand out as the best orna-
mental shrubs for the garden. These are R. race-
mosum — a very dii^tinct dwarf species figured
in these columns July 16. 1S92 — and the one now
shown at fig. 161. Both belong to the first
balch of Yunnan Rhododendrons introduced to
Europe, having been discovered and sent to
France by the Abbe Delavay twenty years or ;oi
ago. For the flowering of the second and'
possibly larger batch from the' same region;
(which we owe to the enterprise of Messrs. Jas.
Veitch & Sons) we shall probably have to wait
a few years longer.

Rhododendron yunnanense is a shrub of
rather sparse habit and erect branches. The
largest plants in cultivation are now 4 to 5 feet
high, but it is probable they will attain to a
stature twice as great. The leaves are 2 to 3
inches long and about J inch wide, tapering to
an acute apex, and, more gradually, to the base.
They are dark, dull green above, paler green
beneath bcth surfaces, and, the lower one
especially, are dotted with minute scales. The
flowers, as will be seen from the illustration,
are borne in several clusters crowded together
at the end of the branch, one being terminal,
the others springing from the axils of the upper-
most leaves. Each flower is from LV to 2 inches
r.cross, the corolla being white, with the most
delicate blush tinge. The upper lobes are
spotted with blood-red. The calyx is very small,,
but is thickly covered with green circular scales,,
which extend also down the peduncle.

This Rhododendron flowers in the early part
of May, and is one of the most beautiful of the
species which flower at that time. Its great
charm consists in the peculiarly delicate colour-
ing of its flowers. The flowers are produced so
profusely as to almost hide the foliage, and the
plant has, in consequence, very much the aspect
of an Azalea. The flowers have, however, the
ten stamens and evergreen leaves of the true
Rhododendrons. The one failing of the species
as an ornamental shrub is the sparse habit,
which has already been alluded to, and which
is chiefly due to the narrowness and compara-
tive thinness of its leaves. W. J. Bean.

June 23, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

399

WATER GARDENS.

(Continued from page 390.)
Amphibious Plants.
A SF.I.ECTION of the best amphibious plants for
the low banks and mnrshy shallows would in-
clude all the I'arnassias, particularly caroliniana
and palustris, several forms of the water For-
get-me-not, Myosotis palustris, the marsh King
Cups, Caltha palustris, and its double and mon-
strous forms; C. parnassiaefolia, and C. biflora.

Numerous other plants will doubtless suggest
thems-elves for positions of peculiar character,
such as Lilium giganteum, Cypripedium specta-
bile, and others, Actaeas, Gentiana asclepiadea,
and G. pneumonanthe, Trilliums, and Orchis,
but such plants can only be enjoyed at their full
value when grown in an environment of tree
and shrub, partly because it is their proper
home, and partly because the water garden bene,
fits by such an arrangement. The tendency of
to-day is to collect water plants and find room
for them, rather than to select water plants to

The open ditch is the next best site for a
water garden, provided there is aj persistent
supply of water, however small, or a greater
volume is obtainable intermittently, and that
it is fully exposed to the sunshine. F"or tiny
streams, the erection of dams is necessary — not
the hideous structures of brick one so often sees,
but dams of natural rock, arranged to form
pockets in which plants could be grown that
would hide or drape the structure. A naturally
straight ditch could easily be diverted in places,
so that a shape that may be described as irregu.

\VG S -.

Fig. i6i. — rhododendron yunnanense:

FLOWERS WHITE WITH BLUSH TINGE, AND OF BLOOD-RED SPOTS.
(For text see page 398.

whose flowers are white and of refined b;aut}'.
The flowering Kush, Butomus umbe'latus, is
capable of very pleasing effects when it fills a
channel, but needs frequent reduction of its
bulk. De?r Grass — so-called — a pretty rosy-
flowered Melasto-nad of Nettle-like character, a
foot or two high, properly called Rhexia vir-
ginica, and the Worm Grass, Spigelia mari-
landica, a Cupbea-like plant, whose trusses of
yellow and scar'et flowers are produced from
slencrS.' growths IB inches high in July, should
have sunny positions at the water's ed3e.

occupy positions they would grace in their own
inimitable way.

Other Types of Water Gardens.
The open ditch, rock pool, and other kinds
of water gardens, almost wholly artificial in
their character, lend themselves to treatment
that would enable one to grow many plants
not recommended for the larger lakes, because
here they are under better control, and make
pretty patches of flower and foliage without the
danger of getting out of liand. One can easily
curtail them.

larly serpentine is secured, not a formal outline,
however, but with just sufficient bend in its
course to show greater breadth of water in one
place than in another. The narrowest part
would be the best position for the dam, and
if the ditch is iengthy, a series of dams may
be erected that would give one plenty of variety
in water surface. No serious difficulty need be
experienced in making a broader "expanse of
water than the dammed-up ditch will afford.
Two or three ieet of water is all that is required
and one can often do much with 4 or 6 inchi

400

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906<

of water, where the surface is broadest. A
simple, but very effective dam that has proved
rigid and as ornamental as such structures can
be, is made with large boulders thrown to-
gether, faced flat on the side up stream and
irregularly placed on the side down stream, a
cutting across stream being made to allow of
the larger boulders being bedded deeply into
the banks and the bed of the ditch. A similar
lot of boulders is placed with the irregular side
up stream, leaving a foot or 18 inches of space
between the two sets. This space is filled with
"grouting," i.e., foundat.on materials mixed
with cement, and a goodly recess in either bank
filled with the same material to form a perfect
cement wall enclosed with boulders. A few
smaller boulders will finish the top in the most
effective way, and these should be embedded in
the cement wall before it sets. The water
will, of course, need to be diverted whilst
the dams are being built. Dams of this
description, placed at intervals, will convert a
narrow ditch into a series of ponds 20 feet wide
if necessary, or into a broad watercourse, with
small dripping pools or waterfalls, as may be
desired, '^ne can find in water gardens thus
made positions for every small growing aquatic
and marsh plant described previously, and, in
addition, all the smaller Water Lilies of the
odorata, caroliniana, Laydekeri, and pygmaea
groups, and a host of small growing marsh and
bog plants, such as Cypripediums, Trilliums,
Primula japonica, Mimulus, Dodecatheons, Ery.
throniums, Mertensias, and others described as
suitable, for the rock pool. Any structure in
connection with the water garden must be con-
cealed, and there is ample material for this, pur.
pose in the Osmundas, Myosotis, Polygonums,
Acorus, reeds and rushes, sedges, and grasses
planted in the positions advised for them. The
swift-running stream is very difficult to plant
successfully. Small aquatics are uprooted,
Nymphsas find the temperature of the water
too cold for them, and none but the stronger
reeds and rushes will be able to withstand the
current. Generally, there is more charm in a
rippling volume of water unplantad than when
filled with common plants ; one can, however,
plant the banks in a most effective way and
induce such aquatics as Menyanthes and most
of the Sagittarias to establish themselves wher-
ever the water is shallow. Plant colonies al-
ways, and allow plenty of space brtween the
groups, so that an uninterrupted view of the
water is readily obtainable, and wherever th^^e
is a slightly shaded spot or raised grassy bank
not wholly suitable for bog and marsh plants,
introduce a collection of varietal sports of As-
pidium angulare for their cool-looking, elegant
fronds, choosing those whose growth is plumose
and free. Anagallis tenella, the Bog Pimper-
nel, Parnassia palustris, Pinguiculas, and Gen-
tiana acaulis, could readily be colonised in the
short, wet turf close to the water's edge. G. B.
Mallctt.

[To be continued.)

BECKFORD HALL, GLOUCES-
TERSHIRE.

The gardens at Beckford Hall, the residence
of Captain Case, J. P., are renowned for a
walled-in fruit garden covered with wire net-
ting, with a mesh small enough to exclude all
sorts of birds except the tiny tit and wren, a
well-cultivated and closely-cropped kitchen gar-
den, smooth, velvety lawns, studded with
choice Conifers, a large collection of well-
grown Chrysanthemums, and nearly every inch
of the mansion covered with choice climbers.

The whole of the east and part of the south
wall in the fruit garden is furnished with
Cordon Pears trained diagonally, containing
about twenty of the best sorts in cultivation.
In the collection we noticed that it included
some of the earliest sorts to come into use, as

well as the very latest, which prolong the
Pear season to its utmost limit. The earliest
to come into use are Souvenir du Congres and
Williams' Bon Chretien, and the latest are
Winter Nelis, in use from December to Feb-
ruary ; Nouvelle Fulvie, a January Pear ; and
Josephine de Malines, which we have seen in
the fruit room in good condition during the
month of April. Although Nouvelle Fulvie is
a very late Pear, it is, notwithstanding, one of
the best in the collection. The fruits are
large, attractive in appearance, flesh melting,
and very juicy.

The main walk in the kitchen garden is
skirted with well-trained Espalier Apple Trees,
including such sorts as Lady Sudeley, Ailing-
ton Pippin, Duke of Devonshire, Cox's Orange
Pippin, King of the Pippins, and many others.
The garden is bounded on the south and east
by substantial brick walls, which are furnished
with Peaches, Apricots, and Plums ; on the
north by the Box avenue ; and the west by Box
hedges cut as square as if they had been set

montana, Japanese Honeysuckle, W. A.
Richardson Rose, Banksian Rose, and Crimson
Rambler. Near the mansion we noticed a rib-
bon border planted with Anemone japonica
alba, Lobelia cardinalis, a plant too littite
grown, Salpiglossis, and Pelargoniums.

On the large lawn adjoining there are many
fine Conifers, including such subj:c;s as Sequoia
sempervirens, S. gigantea, Pinus excelsa, Abies
nobilis glauca, as well as Drooping Ash,
Copper Beech, and many flowering trees and
shrubs such as Cercis siliquastrum, commonly
known as the Judas Tree, with its handsome,
smooth, kidney-shaped leaves and rosy-purple
flowers, produced in great abundance ; Genista
Andreana, one of the most beautiful of all
hardy plants, with its profusion of yellow
flowers and rich crimson markings ; Choisya
ternata, the Mexican Orange Blossom, with its
numerous white flowers, etc.

A special feature of this part of the lawn con-
sists of some Yew hedges, about 10 feet high,
cut perfectly square ; there is an opening in the

FlO. lb'. — BECKFOKD H.^LL : VIEW OF THE WEST FKONT.

in a mould, about 2^ feet high and as much
through, rising by square steps to 4 feet, all
most trim and beautiful. The broad gravel
path leading from the glasshouses to the
pleasure grounds is bounded on each side by
these trim Box hedges, which form a pleasing
feature and give the garden a unique appear-
ance. As we reach the pleasure ground, to the
left is the Box avenue, 100 yards long : it has
been planted for a very long period, and is still
full of vigour. The Box trees on the south side
adjoining the pleasure ground are cut into the
shape of barrels 5 feet high, and form another
striking feature in this department. On the
lawn adjoining is the flower garden, properly
laid out in geometrical beds, and all lavishly
furnished with bright and beautiful plants and
flowers.

Coming to the main walk, 300 yards long,
and 10 feet wide, a portion of it near the flower
beds is spanned with a strong iron trellis that
is draped with most charming climbers, which,
during their season of bloom, form a most
attractive picture. These include Clematis

centre, and over this a slanting cut roof simi-
lar to the roof of a house, 15 feet high, and
the hedge 6 feet through.

Passing on to the spacious lawn on the west
side of the mansion, there are beds of choice
shrubs interspersed with flowering plants, and
bordered with broad edgings of Violas of the
best, free flowering varieties. A large bed of
Gorse is a mass of shining gold during the
spring season ; a large bed of Cotoneaster
microphylla formed a striking contrast, while
the banks of a sheet of water close at hand
were all aglow with fine clumps of Tritoma
uvaria. A long vista cut through the trees
afforded pleasing views of the country in the
distance many miles away. Turning to the
right, we come on to the Monk's^'Well, sur-
rounded by a close-cut Box hedge ^this was a
spot of great interest many generations ago.

The whole of the mansion is draped with
charming climbers in perfect keeping — Bank-
sian Roses (white and yellow), Ampelopsis,
Wistarias, Magnolias, Jasminums, Pyrus
japonica, and Crataegus pyracantha, all grow-

JvNE 23, 1£06.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

401

ing in the greatest luxuriance and the utmost
profusion, producing a scene of great beauty.

The plant houses contained Pelargoniums,
Ferns, Crotons, Begonias, Dracsnas, Allaman-
das, etc. Vines, Tomatos, and other crops are
cultivated in the fruit houses.

Mr. Farmer, the gardener, may be congratu-
lated upon his work, for everything bore evi-
dence of skilful care, and perfect order pre-
vailed everywhere. Q. 7?.

BALANCED RATIONS FOR
PLANTS.

Considerable attention has of late years been
given by agricultural chemists to the problem of
balanced rations for plants.

All gardeners know that there are great differ-
ences in the character of the soil they have to cul-
tivate. There are soils which are highly produc-
tive and soils that are very low in productive
capacity. This is obvious to all who have anything
to do with soils, and one of the great problems is
to find out what kind of treatment is required for
this or for that soil in order to give plants a
balanced ration, because it is just as necessary for
plants to have a balanced ration to li\e upon as it
is for animals.

Plants require certain elements of food to liv(
upon, and without them it is impossible to mak.\
them grow. If gardeners try to grow plants with-
out any nitrogen the seeds will germinate, but that
is all ; then if nitrogen be applied and phosphates
left out, the same result will be obtained, and the
plants make no growth ; it is the same with potash,
and also with lime. These four elements are
absolutely essential to satisfactory plant-life. This
has been very strikingly demonstrated in some
water cultures with plants, at Rothamsted, during
the season of 1905.

Other constituents are to be found in soils, but
experiments have proved that all fertile soils con-
tain an abundance of all the elements except four :
nitrogen, potash, phosphoric acid, and lime. The
gardener should, therefore, try to balance the
application of plant-food according to what is
already present in the soil he has to do with.

The following table shows four types of soil

that the gardener may have to deal with :—

Selected chemical constituents in different descriptions
of soil. Quantities in 100 pounds of each, dry.

Leaf
Mould.

about 22,500 lbs. each of lime and phosphoric acid
in an acre of soil if taken to 9 inches deep. The
leaf mould contains 17 per cent, of organic matter,
with nearly half of i per cent, of nitrogen, a good
quantity of potash, only a small amount of lime,
and about a normal quantity of phosphoric acid.

Speaking generally,- we may say there are six
factors which have to do with plant crop produc-
tion. Some of these factors can be controlled and
some of thera cannot.

Seed and Soil.
The first factor in growing crops is undoubtedly

Organic Matter ...

Nitrogen

Potash

Lime

Phosphoric Acid..

Ordinary

Rich

Rich

.\verage

Garden

Pasture

Loam.

Soil.

Soil.

Percent.

Percent

Percent.

3-84

8-4(!

1455

013

0--I5

059

0-20

073

075

0-66

208

1-20

012

010

100

Percent,
1700
047
O-W
018
013

A sample of ordinary loam is seen to contain
about 384 per cent, of organic matter, known to
the gardener as humus, 013 per cent, of nitrogen,
0-2 per cent, of potash, o 5(3 per cent, of lime and
0'I2 per cent, of phosphoric acid.

The rich garden soil with its greater accumula-
tion of humus matter contains more than three
times as much nitrogen and potash, but rather less
of phosphoric acid; while the exceedingly large
proportion of lime — over 2 per cent. — would very
materially assist in the active nitrification of the
larger percentage of organic matter. In fact, it is
now known that the presence of lime in a soil,
especially when associated with humus, much in-
creases the availability both of potash and of phos-
phoric acid, so that smaller quantities of these
ingredients suffice when extra lime is present.

The rich pasture soil, in consequence of its ex-
tensive amount of grass-root fibres, contains in the
sample quoted 14^ per cent, of organic matter,
with 0'59 per cent, of nitrogen, which would mean
13,275 lbs. per acre of nitrogen if the soil was
cut to 9 inches deep. Much more of potash and

bulk of the soil, therefore, serves chiefly as a sup-
port to the growing crops and as a sponge to hold
water for their use. Consequently, the suitability
of the sou as a good home for the plant or not
depends upon whether it is loose and porous and
cultivatable, and upon whether it affords a satis-
factory deep place for the roots. If the te.xture of
the soil is as it should be, then it is loose, porous,
and absorbs moisture, and there is plenty of
organic matter (humus) in it, and its drainage is
good, so that it does not contain too much water.
Such a soil, we say, is a good home for garden
plants. J. J. Willis, Harpenien.

I-

0|2vT^ch'"or

/ C

Fig. 163. — IRIS bracteata: culolu of i-loweks yellow, veined with lil.\c.

the seed, and all gardeners know that there are good
seeds and poor seeds ; seeds which are capable of
making a very much larger return than others.
Another factor may be termed the home for the
plant. Plants must have a place to live in inde-
pendently of everything else; they must have a
place which they occupy, and, of course, that is
the soil. The soil may have plant-food in it or it
may not, but the plant must have a home. The

IRIS BRACTEATA.

Our illustration was taken from a plant exhibited
lately, at the Royal Horticultural Society by
Mr. Reuthe, of Keston, Kent. It is a Califor-
nian species with yellow flowers, and is reputed
to be difficult to grow. A full description of the
plant is given in Mr. Lynch's Book oj the Iris,
p. 69. The "falls" are yellow, veined with
lilac.

402

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 190C.

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

(Continued from page 343.)

SUNGPAN AND THE KUNGALA PASS.
The Quest of Meconopsis punicea.

In previous " leaves " I have described my
journe}' in what is practically a straight line
from Ichang to the Yalung river, in Eastern
Tibet — a distance of some 1,200 miles. In order
to complete th3 stretch of my travels as indi-
cated in the map published in the Gardeners'
Chronicle, August 26, 1905, supplement, it is
necessary in this, the concluding " leaf," to say
something about the trip to the north-west fron-
tier of Szechuan, in search of Meconopsis
punicea.

Leaving Tatien.lu on July 23, 1903, and travel-
ling by way of Yachow, Chentu, Kuan Hsien,
and the Min Valley, I reached the town of Sung-
pan at noon on August 27 — a journey of over
550 miles. I will not enter into any details of
the journey. It was harder than anj'thing I had
befose experienced. I was well-nigh exhausted
in body, and almost in spirit, long ere the weary
tcamp was ended. At Tatien-lu I suffered from
mountain-sickness and other maladies, and one
or two days on the way I had to lay up, but
large doses o£ opium eventually cured me.
When I left Kiating, on June 25, for Tatien-lu
I weighed list. 41b., on arrival at Sungpan I
was barely 8st. 61b. I mention this personal
detail merely to show how trying and exhaust-
ing the journey proved.

Sungpan, long, about 103° 12' E., lat. 31°
15' N., alt. 9,470 feet, is situated in the extreme
north-west corner cf Szechuan, and is the fur-
thermost outpost of Chinese civilisation in this
direction. To the immediate west and north-
west the country is peopled with Sifans and
various independent and quasi-independent
tribes, about whom little or nothing is known.
Speaking broadly, the Min river from Kuan
Hsien to Sungpan may be taken as the real
boundary between China and the nondescript
country of Eastern Tibet.

The town of Sungpan is built in a narrow,
highly-cultiva'ied valley, through which the in-
fant Min winds its circuitous course. The
town is walled in by treeless mountains, which
rise 1,000 to 2,000 feet above the town. On the
west side, Sungpan is backed by a steep moun-
tain, up two sides of which the city wall is car-
ried. The western gate is situated at the top of
this mountain, and is exactly l.OOO feet above
the river. Save for the Prefect's Yamen and a
temple or two the whole of the mountain en-
closed within the city wall is given over to ter-
raced cultivation.

Sungpan is a town of the fourth class (styled
"Ting"), but the head civil oflScial has the
local rank of Prefect, his full title being " Fu-
I-Li-Min Fu," which signifies "The barbarian,
cher.shing Chines3-governing Prefect." This
fanciful title has reference to the official's con.
trol over the neighbouring tribes-folk — a control
which is purely nccninal, not to say imaginary.
At the time of my visit in 1903 (and again in
1904), the Prefect was a most courteous and
obliging official. If for nothing else, 1 shall al-
ways remember Sungpan for the extreme cour-
tesy and valuable, but unostentatious, assist-
ance rendered to me by the officials there.
Many hard things have been written and said
about Chinese officials, and it is pleasant to be
able to say something on the other side. Dur-
ing the whole of my five years in China I
always received proper attention and assistance
when required from the Chinese officials.

The Manufacture of Tea.
Sungpan is a thriving trade entrepot boast-
ing a population of about 10,000 ; four-fifths of
which are Mohammedans. The trade between
Sungpan and the tribss-folk is one of barter, in
which Tea is the important medium. The Tea
is grown on the mountains around Shi-ts'iian

Hsien, and in the Min 'Valley between Wei-
ehou and Kuan Hsien. In one village I was
fortunate enough to witness the process of pre-
paring this Tea for the Sungpan m.arket. The
bushes of Camellia Thea are allowed to attain
a height of 3 to 4 feet. They are then cut down
to the ground, tied in bundles, and dried in the
sun. When properly dry these bundles are
brought into the villages and cut into 1 to 2
inch lengths by means of a large knife fixed in
a block. These " lengths " of twigs and leaves
are next steamed over a fire (" to bring out the
aroma," as I was laughingly told), and packed
under pressure into oval or rectangular bales
of SOtb. or 1601b. respectively. This is all the
preparation the Tea undergoes for the Sungpan
market. No attempt at picking over the bundles
is made, and weeds of all sorts growing with
the bushes are dried and cut up with them.
The mode of pjepatation is infinitely more
simple and the quality vastly inferior to that
prepared for the Tatien-lu market. In exchange
for this Tea the tribes-folk bring in wool, skins,
musk, deer horns and medicines. The only
foreign articles I saw on sale in the town were
German needles !

The villages and farmhouses around Sungpan
are tenanted by Sifans, or Chinese who have
married Sifan women. These Sifans are Tibe-
tans pure and simple, and their language is
identical with that of the Tibetans around
Tatien-lu. No Europeans or foreigners of any
kind live in Sungpan or the neighbourhood.
Some years ago a Protestant Mission Station
was opened here, but the unfortunate mission-
aries got rioted out and severely maltreated.
Since then no serious attempt to renew the ven-
ture has been made.

The climate of the district is very healthy,
but extremely cold in winter. The Chinese wear
fur-lined clothes all the year round.

From the point of view of food supply, Sung-
pan proved a land of plenty — delicious beef and
mutton were always obtainable. The Irish
Potato was commonly cultivated and possessed,
the finest in flavour of any I ate in China. Of
vegetables other than Potatos, Sungpan
boasted Peas, Beans, Carrots, Celery, Turnips,
Chillies, Cabbage, Onions, and Garlic. Of
fruits there were Apples, Pears, Plums,
Apricots and Raspberries (Rubusxanthocarpus).
Wheat (bearded and plain), Barley (white and
purple) were the chief crops. The valleys and
mountain-sides up to 11,500 feet were mainly
given over to the cultivation of these two
ce»eals. In late August and September the
neighbourhood of Sungpan, as far as the eye
could range, was golden with fields of rolling
Grain. Oats, Flax, and Opium, in small quan.
titles, were other crops cultivated.

The name " Sungpan " has reference to forests
of Pine and the circuitous course of the river
Min. The river still pursues its winding course,
but the forests have long since disappeared. It
is only in the Temple grounds and amongst
tombs that any trees remain. The mountains
are absolutely treeless, and, where not under
cultivation, covered with dense scrub and long
grass. The outer crust of the mountains is
composed of rich, flaky loam (loess?), rather
heavy, but the finest possible for Wheat and
Barley culture.

The Vegetation of the District.
Our knowledge of the flora, like our know-
ledge of the Sungpan neighbourhood generally,
is meagre in the extreme. Only the Russian
traveller, G. N. Potanin and his companion,
M. M. Berezovski, had collected plants in this
neighbourhood previous to my visit. My own
collections were made in the autumn, and are
in consequence small and imperfect. Leaving
aside for the moment the uplands, the following
were the more noteworthy plants noted in the
immediate vicinity of the town: — Senecio tan-
guticus, Salvia, Przewalskii, Nepeta Wilsoni,
Aconitum gymnandrum, Delphinium Pylzowii,

Corydalis spp., Scabiosa, Bretschneideri, Gen—
tiana spp., Senecio spp., Clematis tangutica,.
Clematis orientalis var. akebioides, Lonicera
tibetica with pink flowers and bright red fruits,
various Compositae, and Labiatse. A blush-
coloured form of Anemone japonica was very
striking, but the commonest plant of all was a
species of Erigeron with white pink and pale
purple flowers. In fruit and very abundant were
Rosa spp., Spiraea spp., including S. sorbifolia,
Pa^onia anomala, Hippophae rhamnoides,
Ribes Grossularia, and many species of Ber-
beris. The only trees noted were Populus
euphratica, P. tremula var. (?), Salix alba, and
two species of Picea.

Two days were spent in investigating the
mountains in the immediate neighbourhood of
the town of Sungpan, but not a sign of of the
Meconopsis could 1 discover. The altitude was
not sufficiently great, so that I was not alto-
gether surprised. The people professed utter
ignorance of any such plant, but, whilst dis-
couraging, this proved nothing, and I had
travell-ed too far to be lightly turned back. After
much enquiry, I gleaned that the Kungala or
Kung-lung Pass, some 3'J miles to the north-
east, on the old military load to Nan-p'ing and
Kansu, was a likely spot. (I need not have
travelled so far, 5or the following 3'ear I found
the plant in abundance on a pass only 10 miles
to the east-north-east of the town! However,,
it is always easy to be wise after the event.)

My arrangements were speedily made, and at
8 15 on the morning of August 30, escorted by
ive mounted soldiers, I left Sungpan by the
north gate. 'Twas a glorious autumn day, and
everyone of us were in high spirits. If my fol-
lowers could not share my enthusiasm and
anxious expectancy, it cannot be said that they
did not loyally reuder every assistance. The
miles were long, but we trudged on gaily. We
were a happy crowd — Chinese, Sifan, half-
castes, and one solitary Britisher. At 1.45 we
reached the tiny walled village of Djanlo, 12
miles from Sungpan, and lunched there. For--
merly Djanlo was a most important military
post, but, now, only a few soldiers are stationed
here. Much of the land inside and outside the
walls was given over to Opium cultivation, and
I never saw finer capsules. The people were
busy incising the capsules and collecting the
exuded latex. I noted that the incisions were
made in a circular direction, not longitudinally
as in other parts of Szechuan.

Leaving Djanlo at 2.30 p.m., we reached the
Sifan hamlet of Pei-rau Chiao (alt. 10,000 feet),
20 miles from Sungpan, at 6 o'clock. We found
lodgings for the night in a house where two
large wood fires were burning and no outlet but
the door for the pungent smoke. This smoke
punished my eyes severely, and at times I
thought I should be suffocated. Not so my fol-
lowers— they did not mind it in the least !

From Sungpan to Pei-mu Chiao the road
winds through a succession of fertile valleys,
and the thousands of acres of Wheat and Barley
just ready for the sickle presented a scene fair
to look upon. Dotted here and there were Sifan
hamlets and farmsteads, with their poles of
prayer-flags waving in the bieene. There is
something pretty and unselfish in the idea ct
these prayer-flags, for the winds which move
ihese bits of rag waft blessings on all and sun-
dry. The valleys were alive with Sifans har-
vesting their crops ; all were laughing and sing-
ing like the happy simple children of nature
they really are. The chant of these Sifans is
by no means unmusical, and the notes rise and
fall in soft rhythmic cadence. They were all
very timid, and, unless in numbers, gave us a
wide berth, rushing helter-skelter away from
the road. But occasionally a whole village
turned out to witness the unwonted sight of a
foreigner. They laughed and chatted amongst
themselves, and were evidently amused at ray
appearance. I noticed that nearly all were-
goitrous. The women wear their hair in a series.

June 23, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

403

ot tiny fringe-plats in front and one large plat
behind. These plats are ornamented with coral,
turquoise and bone beads, and the large one is
wound around the head with a kind of turban.
In spite of theit unpleasant odour, which is akin

the hedges trailed Clematis tangutica, a wealtli
of yellow and bronze. Salvia Przewalskii, with
its^large violet-purple flowers, was everywhere
abundant. Flax and Peas were common crops.
Purple Barley' and Oats reached up to the limits

Fig. 164 PRIMULA ORBICUI-.\RIS : FLOWERS, VELLOW,

to that of a keg ot rancid butter, there is some-
thing pleasing and picturesque about these folk,
and their simple manners have a peculiar charm.
The roadsides were fenced with hedges of
•wild Gooseberry, various species of Berberis,
Spirssa, Sails, and Lonicera tibetica. Over

of cultivation, which was, roughly, about 11,000
feet.

Patches of forest composed of two species of
Picea, a lofty Juniper and a handsome Birch,
were frequent •^n the steeper mountain sides.
Facing our lodgings was a nice piece of forest,

but axe and fire were playing sad havoc with it.
The infant Min meanders through the valley —
a broad but shallow stream of clear limpid
water.

We were up betimes next morning, and there
was a very decided autumnal nip in the air
when we set out just as day was breaking. It
was very foggy, but later the sun came out and
we enjoyed a perfect day.

The Kungala Pass is some 10 miles from Pei-
mu Chiao, and I decided to attempt the round
trip in the day. This, as subsequent events
proved, was unwise. Once clear of our lodg-
ings cultivation was left behind, and not an-
other house was seen until we reached the hos-
tel just below the head of the pass. The road
was the merest track, often overgrown with long
grass and herbs and difficult to follow. The
country was quite deserted, and we only saw a
couple of folk the whole of the day.

Our road at first followed the Min, and
wound through a broad valley flanked, on either
sic)e, by high mountains, whose upper parts
were bare, barren, and uninviting. The lower
parts were clothed with coniferous forests,
which occasionally reach down to the river's
edge. Two species ot Picea and a Juniper —
all three handsome trees — were the sole consti-
tuents of these forests. The limit of trees was
about 12,000 feet. Near the bed of the river
small trees of Birch occurred. In the distance,
to our right, towered a range of vicious-looking
peaks, barren and flecked here and there with
snow.

The ascent was of the easiest ; indeed, save
in those places where lateral streams had to be
crossed, one imagined the road was level. How-
ever, the aneroid showed an ascent of 1,500
feet in the 10 miles. The soil is gravelly, and
the streams have cut deep, broad channels. The
main stream iieceived many torrents, and even-
tually went off towards the range on our right,
from whence it takes its rise. We followed a
tributary branch which lost itself in the bogs
and moorland near the head of the pass.

Where free of forest, as it mostly is, the val-
ley is covered with a dense, low scrub com-
posed almost entirely of Potentilla fruticosa.
Daphne sp., Berberis integerrima, B. brachy-
poda, B. diaphana, Lonicera tibetica, L. his-
pida, Hippophae rhamnoides, Caragana sp., .
Astragalus spp., Clematis tangutica, Salix spp.,.
Spiraea laevigata, and another species. The
Spiraeas form fully 50 per cent, of the whole
scrub. These heaths merge into grassland,
which extends in a north-westerly direction for
hundreds of miles into the Amdo country.
These undulating prairies (Chinese Tsao-ti)
support v-ast flocks of sheep and herds of yak,
and are peopled with nomadic Tibetan tribes.
It is from these regions that Sungpan obtains
its wool, furs, and roedicines. The grass and
bog-lands around the head of the pass were gay
with herbs ; blue and yellow weire the predomi-
nating colours. Various species of Senecio,
Saxifraga diversifolia, and another species,
Hypericum sp., and various Composites sup-
plied the yellow. Several species of Gentiana
and the dwarf Delphinium Souliei supplied the
blue. Acres upon acres were alternate carpets
of blue and yellow. E. H. Wilson.
(To he concluded.)

PRIMULA ORBICULARIS.

In our number for May 12 last, Mr. Hemsley
described a new species of Primula under the
above name. Messrs. Veitch now afford us the
opportunity of figuring the plant, which with its
large fragrant, pale yellow flowers is a great
acquisition. Seeds were sent home from Western
China by Mr. E. H. Wilson. For further details,
we may refer to the article above cited.

404

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS.

THE COMPLETION OF THE FLORA
BRASILIENSLS.

Ix this part (the 129th) Trofessor Alfred Cog-
niaux continues the enumeration of the species
Df the genus Oncidium partly dealt with in the
former Fascicle, the number of Brazilian
species enumerated being 131. Then follow
Leiochilus, two species, the second, Leiochilus
pulchellus Cogn., being removed fromWaluewa
pulchella Kegel, a rare and pretty species noted
in the Gardeners' Chronicle, November 23, 1901,
as being in the collection of Frau Ida Brandt, at
Zurich. Lockhartia, six species ; Sigmatostalix,
three species. Huntleyinae Pfitzer includes
I'romenasa, eight species, all well known, ex-
cept P. ovatiloba Cogn. ; Warszewiczella, four
species ; Bollea, one ; Iluntleya, two species.
The other genera dealt with are Cheiradenia,
rhaubardia, Dichaea, 22 species, divided by
the author into four sections, viz., Eudi-
chaea O. Kuntze, Dichaeastrum Cogn.,
Dichaeopsis O. Kuntze, and Pseudodichaea
Cogn. In Tribus XXII. Sarcanthinae Pfitzer are
enumerated 24 spscies of Campylocentrum, those
singular little plants which in South America
represent the Africa Angrcecums and /Eranthus,
under which names the Campylocentrums were
formerly placed, until, in the Orchid Review,
August, 1903, Mr. Rolfe enumerated the species
under Campylocentrum. A list of Addenda et
Emendanda includes descriptions of many new
species, Habenaria, Pogonia, Vanilla, Stenor-
rhynchus, Spiranthes, Physurus, Prescottia,
Microstylis, Galeandra, Masdevallia, .Stelis,
Pleurothallis, and Restrepia being among the
genera.

The index to Vol. III., Part VI., is given in
the present issue, and very carefully executed
illustrations of many of the species described.
Professor Cogniaux must be complimented on
the patient and accurate manner in which he has
dealt with the Brazilian Orchids, the true value
of his efforts being even more evident in the
present than in former Fascicles, as he is the
author of many of the . species described.
Kochiophyton negrense, Schlechter is a strong
species, bearing a general resemblance to
Aganisia ccerulea. As we have already pointed
out, the publication of this part brings this
monumental work, commenced as long ago as
1829, to a most satisfactory completion.

PLANT PORTRAITS.

MaSILlaria pr.estans, Rchb. f. — M. Kimballiana, hort.,
Oesterreichische GarUn Zeitung, June.

Rose, Van Houtte. — H. P. crimson, Risen Zcituttg, May.

Rhododendron. — Pink Pearl, Revue dc V Horticulture
Beige, June.

Rose, " Les Rosati." — A seedling out of a hybrid per-
petual, by pollen of Persian yellow ; flowers carmine, base
of petals yellow, Revue Horticole, June.

The Week^s Work.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By \V. }I. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Miltonia vexiUaria and its varieties. — Plants that
have passed out of bloom should be placed in the
coolest part of the intermediate house, or in a
light position in the Odontoglossum house, and be
exposed to as much fresh air as the other occu-
pants. Nothing should be done at present to
induce growth, because the longer the plants
remain dormant, the stronger will be the new
"breaks" when the season of activity recom-
mences. Where many of this Miltonia are culti-
vated some of the plants commence growing
almost immediately after the spikes are remo\"ed,
but the cooler atmosphere of the Odontoglossum
house will usefully retard them. Very little water
will be necessary to keep the pseudo-bulbs and
foliage plump and healthy till it is again necessary

to return them to their growing quarters in the
Cattleya house. The distinct hybrid M. Bleuana
and its variety nobilior should be kept in the
intermediate house. The new growths are now
making considerable progress, and these should be
constantly examined for thrip insects, which greatly
disfigure and injure them.

Thunias. — All of the Thunias as T. Marshallii,
T. Bensonae, T. Veitchiana, T. Brymeriana, &c.,
as they pass out of bloom should be placed in
a cool, well-ventilated greenhouse, where they
may receive uninterrupted sunlight. Any of these
plants that have failed to bloom, and are growing
to an unreasonable length, should be treated
in the same way as those that have flowered ;
previous to their removal to a cooler atmosphere
it is advisable to pull out the centre leaves at the
apex of the stems, which will stop further growth,
and allow the plants to commence their period of
rest at the proper time. So long as the leaves
remain fresh and green the plants may be moder-
ately supplied with water, but immediately they
commence to change colour it should be gradually
withheld. Should the leaves become infested
with thrips or red spider, lay the plants down on
their sides and syringe them with warm rain-water
and soft soap, and when the foliage has again
become dry return the plants to their former
positions on the stage. Thunias may be readily
increased by taking off the back pseudo-bulbs at
this season, cutting them off at the joints into
lengths of about 6 inches, and inserting them
firmly as cuttings into small well-drained pots,
in a mixture of chopped sphagnum-moss, a little
leaf soil, and course silver sand. Stand the pots
in the warmest house, and when the young shoots
appear let the plants grow as quickly as possible.
On the completion of growth rest them as advised
for the older examples.

OJotitoglossiiiiis. — In the intermediate house such
plants as Odontoglossum grande, O. Schlieperi-
anum, O. Insleayi, and its superior variety leopard-
inum are now startmg to grow, and should be
repotted if this is required. Last year our plants
were potted into a mixture of peat, leaf-soil, and
sphagnum-moss in equal parts, a few pieces of fern
rhizome being placed over the bottom of the pot
for drainage. The plants were potted in a simi-
lar way to an ordinary greenhouse plant, with a
thin surface of moss packed firmly over the com-
post. This season on removing the surface moss
I found the soil in good condition and the roots
plentiful, the plants, therefore, requiring only a
fresh covering with sphagnum-moss. At all times
these plants require very careful watering, for if
the soil is made too wet the fleshy roots are liable
to decay. As the young growths push up and the
leaves expand, allow no water to remain in the
centre of the growths or they will probably damp
off.

Temperatures at night. — Owing to the cold nights
lately experienced it has been necessary to use a
considerable amount of fire heat in the Cattleya
and other warm divisions. The atmospheric tem-
perature of the East Indian house should be 70",
that of the Cattleya 65°, intermediate house 60",
and Odontoglossum house a trifle over 50" through
the night.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B. Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, E3q.,
Cleveley, Allerton, Liverpool.

Ferns on Walls. — One frequently notices en-
quiries as to the best plants that will thrive on
shady walls in the greenhouse or conservatory.
Unsightly walls in a plant-house can often be
made interesting objects by planting them with
a suitable collection of Ferns. There are but
few climbing plants that will succeed satisfac-
torily for any great length of time on a back
wall, especially if they are overhung with other
creepers from the roof, but there are some few
exceptions. Asparagus plumosus is well suited
for this purpose if planted in a well-prepared
border in a house having an intermediate tem-
perature ; while Ficus repens grows well in a
cool house, but its roots should be confined to a
limited border space, otherwise it will develop
into the arborescent . form and lose its close
clinging character. The walls can be covered
with virgin cork, and, previous to arranging
it, the kinds of Ferns intended to grow
should be decided upon, so as to make adequate
provision for their continued growth by mak-
ing pockets to suit the different varieties.
Sphagnum-moss can be used to fill up the
spaces between the cork, and this substance

will materially benefit the Ferns owing to its
property of retaining moii-ture. Davallias are
most suitable subjects for this kind of wall
gardening, and they are never more at home
than when they are growing on rockwork or cii
corked walls. In selecting the varietes for plant-
ing, the minimum temperature maintained in the
house must be taken into considerution, as many
species of Davallia will not thrive in a cold
house, although most of the greenhouse species
luxuriate in a warm house. Providing the tera.
perature does not fall below 40" in the winter,
the following varieties will thrive on walls :
Davallia dissecta elegans, D. bullata, O.
canariensis, D. Tyermanni, and D. Novae-
Zealandiae. Davallia dissecta is the best species
for covering the wall quickly. D. bullata, from
its deciduous habit, should be used sparingly.
Many of the Adiantums may also be used, and
A. assimile is one of the best for this mode of
culture, while A. gra-.illimum is seen rt its best
when growing over the edges of wall pockets.

General remarks. — Remove as they appear the
flowers from Mignonette growing in pots, aud
keep the growths regulated at a sufficient dis-
tance apart. Give abundance of air to the
plants by removing the lights from the frames
during the day, and afford a sufficient quantity
of water to the plants when they require it, with
frequent syringings overhead. Soot water may
be given, but avoid strong stimulants ; when
the pots are full of roots a little artificial manure
may with advantage be used. Lose no time in
re-potting late rooted plants of Begonia Gloire
de Lorraine, otherwise the foliage will assume a
sickly appearance. Plants of Gloxinias which
have now passed out of flower, and which are
intended to do duty for another year, should be
placed in cool pits close to the glass, and be
encouraged to complete their growth and to
form strong corms. Seeds of Campanula pyra-
midalis should be sown in pans or boxes, and
the seedlings be raised in a frame, and whea
large enough be potted singly. Encourage, by
liberal feeding. Campanulas now coming into
flower. Maintain a growing atmosphere in the
stove-house by closing the structure early, which
will also economise fuel.

THE APIARY.

Bv Chluius.

Some things to avoid. — I have visited an apiary
of eleven hives and was astonished to see at
least half a pint of bees either dead or dying in
front of each hive. In addition to this, the
whole colony was in an uproar. On enquiring
the cause, I found the beekeeper had bean
advised to discard queen excluder zinc below
his shallow frames. His disappointment can be
more easily imagined than described when ho
found on examination that a portion of over
fifty frames contained brood. To remedy this he
had cut out all the brood, and some honey oJ
course, leaving it on the hive roofs to be cleaned
out by the bees. When the bees had completed
their task of cleaning up, they set to work to
rob any and every hive. Every beekeeper ought
to exercise great care with his comb, for, once
the bees have found that honey can be obtained
easily and without labour, they seem as though
they cannot resume honest labour again. I
visited a second apiary later, and was asked to
overhaul the hives. I was amazed to see how
badly they were quilted. Sacks had been used,
but they did not fill the corners. This was
quickly remedied and a sheet of brown paper
placed between the quilts. I left the beekeeper
giving him the first piece of advice I received as
beginner, viz., " Never be afraid of putting on
too much. What will keep the heat in, will keep
it out."

Something to imitate. — In the former apiary I
saw a very good home-made solar wax extractor.
It consisted of a box, such as drapers send when
delicate material is despatched. It was about 30
inches long, 15 inches broad, and 4 inches deep.
A sheet of tin was fitted in, being bent up at the
sides and one end. On the upper end of the tin,
for the box was tilted towards the sun, the comb
to be melted was placed, and melted wax ran to
the lower end. Over the box was a sheet of
glass. When I saw how efficiently this simple
contrivance was doing its work, I compared it
with the messy way many of us adopt, and
thought what a lot of domestic discomfort might
be saved by this very simple method.

June 23, 190G.] '

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

405

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T, W. BiRKiNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas,
Hamilton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire,

Slrawberries. — Where such useful varieties as
British l.lueen, President, and Monarch are
grown, they will serve to keep up the supply of
fruit until the outside crop commences to ripen.
The plants of the varieties mentioned will by
this time have set an abundance of fruit, and this
should be thinned out at once, so that those
which are left may have a better chance to
swell to a good size. They will now require
watering twice daily, and the afternoon water-
ing should be with diluted liquid manure, which
may be applied until the fruits begin to colour.
It will be somewhat difficult now to keep red-
spider from attacking the plants, and the only
remedy is to syringe the plants twice each day,
getting well under the leaves. If it is conve-
nient, let the plants be arranged on shelves
where they will not be subjected to the full
power of the sun's rays.

Strawberry Layers. — If the first batch of run-
ners has not yet been layered, let this work be
completed at once, for much will depend
on an early start being made, so that the plants
may be potted into their fruiting pots in good
time. Some growers layer direct into 5-inch
pets, which is not a bad practice for the early
plants, providing there is not a continuous spell
of wet weather, which would tend to sour the
soil. In the latter event the young plants would
not thrive so well as if they had been layered
into 3-inch pots and potted on afterwards. The
soil most suitable for use at layering time is
one consisting of good loam, enriched with
manure from a spent Mushroom bed, and a little
bone-meal. No crocks need be used for the
3-inch pots. Secure the layers with wire pegs,
and get as many layers as possible together,
which will save time in watering them. Plunge
the pots a little into the ground, as this will
help to keep the soil more uniformly moist, but
they will require to be watered.

Peaches and Nectarines. — When the fruit has
been gathered from early trees let all the weak
find old wood be cut out of them, so that the
fruit-bearing growths for another season may
have the full benefit of light, air, and sun. Con-
tinue to syringe the trees and keep the borders
in a moist condition.

Madresfield Court Grapes. — Where this splen-
did Crape is accomplishing its last swelling, or
approaching the ripening stage, the vines must
not be allowed to become at all dry at the roots,
for if allowed to get dry and a soaking of water
be afterwards applied, the berries will crack
badly. The lateral growths may be allowed to
grow a little more freely without stopping.
Afford ventilation early in the morning, and
employ abundance on very hot days.

from seed, the lovely varieties and hybrid forms of
the common Columbine are particularly easy of
cultivation. So free and hardy are they tliat they
are eminently adapted for growing in the wild
parts of the Hower garden, either by the streamlet
or on slopes in the grass along with other
naturalised subjects, such as Foxgloves, An-
chusas, and Caraassias. The seed may be either
sown in the spo'.s where the plants are to flower,
or on prepared seed beds, where, after thinning
out the seedlings properly, they may be left until
ne.xt spring, when they can be transplanted to the
positions assigned to them.

Primulas. — Many of the .Mpine Primulas, such
as P. denticulata, P. d. var. cashmeriana and P.
cortusoides, if now sown in pans, and the young
seedlings grown on in pots, will make nice plants
for putting out in the rock garden next spring.

be incorporated with the soil before sowing.
Select a good strain, using, if possible, " Bob-
bie's Selected," which is one of the b?st aad
most ornamental, as well as useful, kinds.

'THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A. Pettigbew, Gardenerlo the Earl of Plymouth,
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

Sowing Seeds of Herbaceous Plants. — Many gar-
deners prefer the present time, rather than earlier
in the season, for sowing the seeds of their
perennial herbaceous plants. W'hen these are
sown in beds fairly well shaded from the mid-day
sun, it is quite probable that in most places better
plants will be produced because of the fact that
the seedlings will have more attention paid to
them than would be the case if they came up at an
earlier and busier season.

Mieiuunia eampaituloides, a lovely plant' of the
Bell-flower family, is one that should be grown by
all lovers of hardy flowers. In height it attains
from 4 to 6 feet, and the flowers are white, tinged
with purple, and arranged in a pyramidal can-
delabra-like head, which gives it a very imposing
appearance, and makes it most eftective for plant-
ing in mixed borders. It is a perennial plant, but
perhaps the best results are obtained by treating it
as a biennial. If the seeds are sown in a box, and
the seedlings, when large enough, are potted up
into small pots, the plants ought to be ready to
put into their places in the border by the autumn
for flowering next season.

Aquilegias are beautiful plants, both in flower
and foliage, in borders of herbaceous plants at this
time of the year. Not only as decorative plants in
the border are they to be admired, but for cutting
they are most useful, and should be grown ex-
tensively in the reserve garden for that purpose.
Though the rarer species are somewhat difficult to
get, and require to be propagated almost annually

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck ."^bbey, Notts.

Late Peas. — Except in verv warm districts it is
not advisable to sow for the latest supply after
this date, and even at this time of sowing I
strongly advise the use of early or second early
varieties, and the avoidance of the later sorts,
such as Autocrat, Late Queen, etc. Amongst the
varieties to sow now is the well-known Early
Giant, certainly one of the best kinds at any
season. It grows about 3i feet high, and should
be sown at this distance between the lines. If
the soil is drv, afford a good watering before
covering the seeds. Green Gem, growing about
12 to 15 inches high, is an excellent variety for
sowing closely together on a border. Dwarf
varieties, growing about the height mentioned,
are so easily protected in the event of early
frosts that they should not b3 omitted to be
grown.

Carr(i/.r.— Make another sowing of one of the
early Horn variet es for the purpose of supply-
ing young roots in late autumn and early winter.
Sonie rough leaves or straw thrown over them
will afford sufficient protection from early frosts.
Look to the main general crop, and if any
blank spaces occur in the rows, sow the vacan-
cies with seeds of Early Gem, as by this means
good use will be made of the space, and the
general crop will present a better appearance.
The same remark applies to Beetroot, of which
the variety. The Globe, should be sown to maks
good any losses. Keep the soil moderately
loose between these root crops to allow freedom
of growth. A sowing of soot on the Carrot crop
will prove profitable if applied during showery
weather.

Outdo.^r Tomatos.— Keep these rigidly trained
to one stem, and, when three or four trusses ci
blossoms have formed, pinch out the leader, for
it is seldom that more than that number of
bunches can be ripened. Keep the plants well
watered, and see that they are made secure
against strong winds.

Winter Tomatos.— In order to secure good
fruitful plants before the winter sets in, the first
sowing of seeds should be made at the
end of the present month, to be followed by
another sowing a fortnight later. It is useless
to delay this sowing until the autumn, for it is
seldom that a good set of fruit can be had after
October, the atmospheric conditions not being
suitable! Sow thinly in boxes or in pans, and
place the seed-pans in a cold frame, and grow
the seedlings as cool as possible. Do not em-
ploy rich soil in the earlier stages of growth, for
this will detract from success later on. A well-
tried and suitable variety is Sutton's Winter
Beauty, a Tomato diflBcult to surpass for its ex-
cellent setting qualities, even in adverse weather.
Winter Vegetables.— liskt good any losses in
the winter vegetable quarters as fast as they
occur, choosing a showery day if possible for
the work. Encourage free growth at all times,
and if the weather continues dry, resort to water,
ing. Keep the soil deeply stirred between tne
lines, which will, in addition to admitting air,
etc., also serve the purpose of keeping down
weeds.

Parsley.— To obtain a supply during the
winter and spring months, a sowing of Parsley
seeds should now be made. Suitable bor-
ders in plenty are available for the purpose
after the crop's of early Putatos, Cauliflowers,
or Peas are removed. Parsley requires a rich
soil, therefore a dressing of short manure should

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. .\. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Sussex.

Cherry Trees ripening their fruits should re-
ceive great attention in the matter of watering,
for they will need plenty of moisture. See to
the proper tying of the growths, especially of
cordon trained trees. The Cherries should re-
main on the trees till they are thoroughly
ripened, for although some kinds of fruits will
mature when gathered before they are ripe,
Cherries will not, and if they are harvested pre-
maturely, their skins become hard and tough.
Late varieties should receive copious supplies
of water, and should be constantlv syringed,
in order to combat aphides. Trees trained
against north walls will not require as much
watering as those on west and south-west walls.
Bush and pyramid trained trees on light soils
will need water. Cherry trees should not be
neglected after the fruits are gathered, but
should receive careful watering and syringing
till growth is matured. As a protection against
birds, cover the trees with small-meshed netting,
as soon as the fruits show colour.

Peaches and Nectarines. — The shoots on these
trees are growing very fast, and will require
attention. All new growths not required for
next year's crop should be removed. Carefully
tie ail growths that are allowed to remain,
and if this is done neatly and well, much better
results will accrue both in appearance and in
permanent value. The shoots can be trained in
position against the wall by means of small
lengths of bamboo cane slipped in between other
branches. The canes should be split into small,
flexible pieces, each about a foot long, and if
they are saved in the autumn, they will be ser-
viceable for several years. Syringe the trees
on all available occasions — every afternoon, if
possible, at about four or five o'clock — and give
the foliage a thoroughly good soaking, com-
mencing the work from the bottom of the tree,
otherwise the lower foliage will become wettei
from the dripping of the upper leaves, and,
hanging, will not become wetted on the under
surface. The syringing must be done very
thoroughly in ord;r to keep the foliage immune
from red-spider. Occasionally the foliage
should be sprayed with XL-All insecticide. Pre-
quent applications of manure water to the rcots
will be found beneficial to the trees. The stimu-
lant may be either drainings from the cowyards
or from the stables. The best time to apply
food to the roots is immediately after the stoning
period, when the tree puts forth all its vigour
to develop its fruits. Some approved artificial
manure dissolved in water should be applied
alternately with the drainings. Arrange the foli-
age about fruits that are beginning to swell of
such varieties as Waterloo, Amsden June, Hale's
Early, and Early Alfred, so that the sun's rays
will reach them. The earlier this is done the
better will be the colour.

Currants and Gooseberries. — The bushes have
been badly attacked by aphis, owing to the pre-
vailing cold nights and east winds. If the
shoots are very badly infested, they should be
shortened to five or six nodes. This will serve
to get rid of the aphis and at the same time
further the development of the fruits. Early
varieties of Gooseberries will be much benefited
by being now pruned, especially cordon trained
trees. The variety Yellow Champagne is still
a great favourite for early use. Langley Gage and
Langley Beaut)' are both good kinds, and both
bear profusely as cordon trained trees. Crown-
Bob and Dan's Mistake are also excellent varie-
ties, and can be used for both dessert and culin-
ary purposes. They will keep late in the season,
and grow to an enormous size. Whinham's
Industry, Keepsake, and Lancashire Lad are
other good varieties. The bushes are greatly
benefited by a mulching of cow manure early ia
the season. The Gooseberry crop this season is
very heavy.

Strawberries Ripening. — The trusses of fruit
should be supported from the soil, especially if
the weather be showery ; shou'd the weather
remain dry, copious supplies of water will be
necessary, especially to late fruiting varieties.

4t)G

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1956.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Qarden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as sferimcm and plants
for iiaming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.

Communicatioits should be written on one side onlv of
THE PAPER, scid as early in the meek as possible, ami duly
signed by the writer. If desired, the sigtmture will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee oj good Jaith.

Special Notice to Correspondents.— T/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay /or any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, unless by
special arrangement. The Editor docs mt hold himsel)
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations,— TAc Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, &c., but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should be
careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News.— Co!«s/>o»rfEn(s will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters zuhichit is desirable
to bring umler the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

"TUESDAY, June 26 Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns, meet.

WEDNESDAY, June 27 Richmond Flower Show.
FRIDAY, June 29 Roy. Bet. Soc. meet.

( Windsor and Eton Rose & Hort.
SATURDAY, June 30 ] Show.

I Dutch Gard. Soc. meets.

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from
observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick— G2-2°.

.Actual Temperatures: —

LonDOK .— Wednesday, June 20 (6 p.m.) : Max. 80° ; Min.
5T.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, June 21
(10 A.M.): Bar., 30-4; Temp., 71°; Weather-
Overcast.

Provinces.— Wtrfn£5(ia;', June 20 (6 p.m.) : Max. 75"
London ; Min. 56° Liverpool.

SALES.

■■WEDNESDAY—

Palms, Plants, Ferns, Geraniums, &c., at 67 & 68,
Cheapside, E.C., by Messrs. Protheroe & Morris, at 1.

FRIDAY—

2,.500 Imported Odontoglossum crispum, Orchids in
variety, at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe &
Morris, at 12.45.

The phenomenal success of the
Education j^ | Horticultural Society of

„ ^. recent years imposes upon it

Routine. -^ . "^ ....

corresponding' responsibilities.

In this country, justifiably or not we will not
stay to consider, our Government and our
municipalities show ever increasing energy in
the imposition and collection of rates and
ta.xes. They display, however, a by no means
proportionate tendency to encourage mea-
sures having for their object the mental and
bodily health of the citizens. Commercial
interests and the material welfare of the
nation are, of course, not neglected,
but they are apt to be treated one-
sidedly, inadequately, and with a want of
foresight. This is no question of party
politics, for a want of scientific treatment of
these great questions is as conspicuous on
one side as on the other. It is true that of
late years some efforts have been made by
public bodies, especially by the Board of Agri-
culture, to improve and extend our educa-
tional machinery and to promote the study of
the conditions upon which the health and
well-being of the people depend. But these
efforts, however laudable, are clearly inade-
quate. In our own special department we

have but to look at the work done by the
several States, or by the public institutions of
the United States, or of Germany, to realise
how relatively insignificant are the corre-
sponding efforts made here. Englishmen
have got into the habit of thinking that such
matters are better left to private enterprise.
But private enterprise .means the promotion
of the interests of the individual rather than
of the community. The unsavory details
connected with certain commercial establish-
ments in the United States, which have
horrified the public and called for the in-
dignant remonstrance of the chief of the
State, go to show that the unbridled greed
of gain needs to be checked and controlled by
some agency representing the interests of the
community Kt large.

At the meeting of the Horticultural Club,
on the 12th inst., the subject of education in
agriculture and horticulture was broached by
Mr. Brooke-Hunt, of the Board of Agricul-
ture. Mr. Hunt's address was descriptive of
the inception, progress, and present position
of horticultural and agricultural education in
the British Isles. Apparently, so far as State
aid to and interest in rural education of this
class are concerned, little or nothing was
done in this country anterior to i888, when
the munificent grant of ;^5,ooo ( !) was made
in furtherance of such knowledge, and even
of this the bulk was absorbed in dairy in-
terests rather than those of horticulture.
From this point the lecturer detailed the
spread of general interest and the somewhat
sporadic rise of colleges, institutions, and
executive bodies about the country under the
stimulus and guidance of the Board of Agri-
culture, and showed that a good deal of
healthy work has been done in the way of
awakening the interest of the young in
garden-culture. From the lecturer's remarks
it was obvious that some progress had already
been made in the direction of agricultural
and horticultural State aid, and that the work
was steadily progressing. It was, how-
ever, clear to his hearers that the results
obtained could bear no satisfactory compari-
son with those attained by the United States
of America, with their long lists of some 6o
or 70 agricultural experimental stations, or
with the organizations of other countries
whose treasuries appear to be less firmly
closed than ours to the appeals of the far-
seeing practical scientist. " No funds " is the
constant cry on this side, and hence the bulk
of progress is due to private enterprise. The
important nature of the lecturer's remarks
was fully recognised, as was the value of such
education as a factor in re-peopling the rural
districts by qualifying the rising generation
to utilise the land to the best advantage. Sir
John Llewelyn considered that every country
boy should know how to grow a potato and
every country girl how to cook it, the two
things typifying classes of knowledge at once
of domestic and agricultural value.

As we write we have before us the prospec-
tus of the State Agricultural College of
Colorado, one of the many which reach us al-
most weekly. It may be worth while to give
a few extracts as to the staff and what it
does. First there is the State Board of
Agriculture and its officers, numbering 14
persons, charged with administrative duties.
Then there are 12 " standing committees "
dealing with various departments. The Board
of Instruction comprises professors, instruc-
tors, assistants, college lecturers, field lee
turers, and field agents. The subjects taught
comprise political economy and logic, me-

chanical engineering, civil and irrigation en-
gineering, zoology and entomology, chemis-
try and geology, domestic science, history
and literature, botany and horticulture,
forestry, veterinary science, constitutional
history and irrigation law, agriculture,
agronomy, animal husbandry, rhetoric
physics and applied electricity, meteorology,
chemistry, sewing and millinery, cookery,
embroidery, mathematics (three professors),
physics, forge and foundry practice, car-
pentry, architecture, modern languages,
elocution, drawing, music, book-keeping,
landscape-gardening, etc. -

The professors, lecturers, assistants, and
instructors are many of them w^omen. " The
design of the institution is to afford thorough
instruction in agriculture and the natural
sciences connected therewith. To effect that
object most completely the institution shall
combine physical with intellectual education,
and shall be a high seminary of learning in
which the graduates of the common schools
of both sexes can commence, pursue, and
finish a course terminating in thorough
theoretical and practical instruction in those
sciences and arts which bear directly upon
agriculture and kindred industrial pursuits."

Connected with the College is an experi-
mental station for conducting investigations
and experiments, and for disseminating the
results of such investigations. We have not
space to give the details of the Horticultural
Hall used by the departments of botany,
horticulture, and forestry, and equipped with
the necessary apparatus, nor of the green-
houses, forcing houses, orchards and grounds.
We must equally pass over the details of the
course of study in horticulture and pomology,
which occupies two years, taken after the
preliminary course of general education, oc-
cupying also two years. The course of horti-
cultural study includes the whole of theoreti-
cal and practical horticulture.

Reverting to the Royal Horticultural
Society and the brilliant success it has
achieved under the auspices of the President,
Secretary, and Council in availing them-
selves of the opportunities afforded them by
the munificence of Baron Sir Henry Schroder
and of Sir Thomas Hanbury, we cannot over-
look the corresponding responsibilities which
that success entails. The Society can do, and
should do, many things which the ordinary
practitioner, be he a commercial man or an
amateur, has not the means of doing, and, in
not a few cases we fear, has not the inclina-
tion to do. The tvi'o great objects, apart
from the holding of exhibitions, to which
the Society, as a trustee for horticulture,
should work, are the advancement of horticul-
tural education and the promotion of re-
search. Under the head of education we do
not mean mere instruction in routine practice,
which can be learnt by experience in any good
garden, but such education as shall enable the
possessor to avail himself of the resources
which science offers in the promotion of the
progress of the art, the extension of its
scope, the cheapening of its processes, and the
increase of the value of its results. A fully-
equipped school of horticulture and a re-
search station at Wisley have still to be estab-
lished. If the endless series of reports from
the American colleges do not furnish suf-fi-
cient hints for the carrying out of these
schemes, there are, within a few hours of our
shores, the horticultural schools of Versailles,
of Ghent, of Vilvorde, and others which fur-
nish excellent examples of what should be
clone here.

June 23, 1908.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

407

Our Supplementary Illustration —
Plumiera lutea. — There are two or three
•species of this genus in cultivation as stove shrubs ;
■of these the present one is the most attractive from
its large fragrant flowers, which are white, flushed
and edged with rose, and with a rich yellow centre.
It is probably a native of Peru, and was introduced
•to Kew by M. Linden. It was the subject of a
•coloured illustration in the Botanical Magazine for
June, 1869, tab. 5779. The shrubs are rather
subject to the attacks of mealy bug, which are not
■easy to dislodge, but any extra care that may be
needed is amply compensated for by the beauty and
profusion of the flowers. A good-sized plant will
■continue to develop flowers during the greater part
■of the year. Our illustration was drawn by iVIr.
WoRiHiNGTON Smith, from specimens exhibited
■by Lady Plowden.

South-Eastern Agricultural College.

— A course of demonstrations and practical work
in field and laboratory, on the applications of
science to rural life and outdoor industries, will
■be held at the College, at Wye, Kent, on a con-
venient date (about the last week in July or first
•week in August) during the summer of 1906. The
•course will last a fortnight, and will be designed to
meet the needs of those masters who, already
trained in some branch of pure science, have to
teach such subjects as chemistry, botany, zoology,
mechanics, physics, &c., to scholars whose homes
.and lives are in the country, and to whom the
teaching of science, as applied to and illustrated
by things of importance in country life, will be
of great interest and educational value. The
College has special facilities for developing a
course which will be useful for the masters, and
through their teaching, of great value to the
scholars of the rural secondary schools of the
country, as it is equipped with all the necessary
teaching accommodation, in the way of labora-
tories, lecture rooms, &c., and has attached a
farm of 4G0 acres (including 170 acres of arable
land), orchards, vegetable grounds, glasshouses,
hop garden, &c. Wye is five miles from Ashford,
in surroundings which are both picturesque and
interesting to the naturalist.

The work of the course will be mainly practical investiga-
tion into the bearings of science on outdoor life, and
illustration lectures will also be given, indicating the lines
on which science teaching in rural secondary schools could
be usefully developed. The following are a few examples
-of what would be attempted: — 1, the collection of the
weeds of the locality, and the study of the root system, to
indicate methods of eradication and system of propagation ;
2, the collection of grasses from dilterent localities, down,
meadow, hedge-row, wood, to distinguish useful and useless
varieties ; 3, the collection of fungi from garden and farm
crops — their life history and methods of combating attacks — •
useful and injurious forms ; 4, the zoology of the country —
the collection of useful and injurious insects — the study of
the birds and mammals, and their relation to the farmer and
.gardener ; 5, the measuring of soil temperatures, and water
.content of tilled, untilled, and crop covered ground — the
.demonstration of the physical eflect of rolling, hoeing,
harrowing, and of other agricultural and horticultural opera-
tions ; 6, the mechanics of everyday life — the demonstration
•of mechanical principles in implements of tillage and draught,
.and in the construction of roofs, oic. ; 7, the composition of
the soil and of the water draining from it, the influence of
manures shown by experiment, the value of lime as an acid
jieutraliser in the soil. The cost of the course would be £5,
•including residence and board in College, and it is suggested
that this fee might be defrayed in whole or part by means
•of studentships, awarded by county education committees,
boards of governors, and others interested in the develop-
ment of a useful system of science teaching in our rural
secondary schools. Further information concerning the
.course can be obtained from, and applications to join should
be made to the Principal (M. J. R. Dunstan), South-Eastern
Agricultural College, Wye.

Flowers in Season. — From Mr. Smith's
Daisy Hill Nursery, Newry, come specimens of
Distyliuni racemosum, an evergreen shrub like a
Gualtheria, or some of the Andromedas, in
appearance, though widely different in reality ;
of this we propose to give a figure later on.
LoNicERA PYRENAicA. — A bushy species with
.purplish shoots, glabrous, glaucous, obovate,
jounded leaves about 1^ inches long, tapering
into a very short stalk. The flowers are in

pairs, borne on a short stalk and connected
together by the bases of the ovaries. Each
flower is about half an inch long, whitish,
flushed with pink, with a broad, slightly unsym-
metrical, funnel-shaped tube and a regular, spread-
ing limb with five ovate, oblong lobes. It is a very
attractive shrub, the colour of the branches and
leaves, and the profusion and long duration of the
flowers being great recommendations. It is a
native of the Pyrenees. That it is not common
in gardens may be inferred from the fact that it is
not mentioned in Nicholson's Dictionary , though it
is included in the Keiv Hand List of trees and
shrubs, and in Loudon's Encyclopedia of trees and
shrubs, according to which it -was introduced into
cultivation in 1739. Aquilegias. — Some of the most
charming and delicately coloured Aquilegias we
have ever seen have come from Mrs. Scott
Elliot, Teviot Lodge, Hawick, Roxburghshire.
Some are pure white, others blue and white, pure
yellow, pink with yellow corolla, pale red with
orange-coloured corolla, and other shades. The
flowers are of large size and excellent form, and
we are not surprised to hear that our corre
spondent has worked for many years in th
development of this excellent strain. Another
consignment of Aquilegias is from Messrs.
Bakers', Wolverhampton and Codsall, Stafford-
shire. These flowers are remarkable for the
unusually long spurs they possess to the petals.
In some instances this development is accompanied
by the shortening of the corolla, a condition which
gives to the flowers an effect that is not common.
Each variety bears a name, and amongst the best
are Village Belle, very large, having a pale yellow
corolla and lilac-coloured calyx ; Marguerite with
pale yellow corolla and " Petunia violet " coloured
calyx ; Coquette, the corolla bright yellow, and
calyx red, affording a good contrast ; Blushing
Beauty, pale yellow and rose pink ; Bridesmaid,
white and a light shade of blue ; Yaller Gal ; the
Bride, white ; Queenie, cream coloured and pale
blue, &c. Our predecessors would hardly re-
cognise the old Columbine in the elegant varieties
we now possess, which, though delicate and some-
what unsuitable for travelling long distances
after cutting, are nevertheless amongst the most
valuable border plants we possess. Herbaceous
PEONIES. — Messrs. Kelw.ay cS: Son, Langport,
Somerset, send us excellent flowers of choice
varieties of herbaceous Paeonies, in which attrac-
tive colours and large size are alike noticeable.
The double flowers include Mrs. Stubbs, flesh-
coloured with white centre ; Hallam, purple ;
Glory of Somerset, pink ; Griff Thomas, pale
rose-coloured with showy yellow anthers, and
Summer Day, white shaded to cream. The single
varieties: Mrs. Richmond, rose-coloured; Heart's
Desire, pale pink and white ; and Countess
Cadogau, of flesh or pink colour. From the
same nursery some flowers of Delphinium re-
present a few very choice varieties. Earl Roberts
is pale azure blue and mauve-coloured ; Holy-
rood of the same colours, but a little deeper in
shade ; Mrs. G. A. Sims is rich purple and blue,
flowers very large ; John Bright, clear lavender
blue, with very faint shade of mauve; and
Dagonet, dark blue, one of the richest in shade
we have seen.

National Amateur Gardeners- Associa-
tion.— Acon\ersazioneand musical entertainment
will take place at Winchester House, Old Broad
Street, E.G., on July 3, at 7 p.m.

Calceolarias. — Mr. W. Dukes, Highfield
Gardens, Littleover Hill, Derby, sends us a photo-
graph of sprays of excellent herbaceous Calceolarias
cultivated in those gardens, including a plant of
"Jeffries Hybrid" which has been crossed with
the ordinary varieties. The plants have proved to
be capital bedders, growing from 2 to 3 feet high.
In our last issue we published a photograph which
also showed the sam.e kind of cross.

The Botanical Exchange Club. — We have
received the report for 1905' of the Botanical
E.xchange Club of the British Isles. The club is
in a satisfactory condition, and its work is increas-
ing. It is of service in identifying rare and critical
species of plants, and in bringing into communica-
tion members of kindred tastes. Notes on the
rare and interesting species, and of their geo-
graphical distribution are given. Lamarck's name
seems to be misspelt throughout, and MoguiN
Tandon's name should not be abbreviated as
" Mog." The information concerning the forms
of Rosa, Rubus, Hieracium and other " critical "
genera are valuable. No fewer than 4,542 speci-
mens were distributed among the members in 1905.
Detailed information concerning the publication
can be obtained from the editor and distributor,
Rev. W. R. Linton, Shirley Vicarage, Derby.

Rose Catalogue. — A very full catalogue o£
Rose names has just been issued under the title of
Nomenclature de tons les noms de Roses. It is the
joint production of M. Leon Simon and M.
Pierre Cochet, and is published at the Librairie
Horticole, 84 bis Rue de Crenelle, Paris. The
names of all known Roses, or at least of more
than 11,000 of them, are arranged alphabetically.
Concise details are given relating to the section to
which each belongs, the name of the raiser, the
year of production, the colour of the flowers and
the synonymy. The translation of foreign names
into the French language is aho added. Some
idea of the numbers of varieties dealt with may
be gleaned from the fact that Hybrid Perpetuals
number 2,791. Teas 1,434, Provins 1,713.
Hybrid Teas 473, Polyantha 207, whilst varieties
of cinnamomea number one only. A list is
given of the varieties issued each year from
1800, when there was one only. In 1833 none
was added to the list. In the year 1905 33
additions were made to the list. In 1901 no fewer
than 169 new names were launched. Vibert, of
Angers, is credited with GOO introductions, a far
larger number than any other raiser ; Laffay
comes next with 388, then Eugene Verdier, with
222. British and Irish raisers are also conspicuous,
but we miss the name of Prince, and also of all
reference to the catalogue issued under the auspices
of our National Rose Society. Though written in
the French language the Rosarian not familiar
with that tongue will have little difiiculty in
making use of this list. A few misprints are
inevitable in the compilation of such a mass of
detail, thus " Syrley Hibbert " is not the correct
rendering of the name of Shirley Hibeerd.
F. Cant does not reside at Rochester, but
at Colchester, and on pp. .xv.-xxi. various
misprints occur. Cross references are desirable;
for instance, there are nearly three columns of
names of Roses beginning with the particle a, as a
bois brun, a creur jaune, &.C., one column of
" Baronnes," half a column of " Climbing," and
so forth. This makes reference rather difficult,
but if an entry such as Rothschild, Baronesse, and
so forth, were given, research would be facilitated.

IcoNES Select.<e. — Fascicles 7 and 8 of
Tome V. of the Icones Sclectii are now published.
The first part contains plates and description of
Drimys aromatica, Spirsea longigemmis, Rhipsalis
trigona, Atriplex confertifolia, and Passerina fili-
formis ; and Fascicle 8 those of Eutajcia myrti-
folia. Genista Nyssana, Dicliptera Niederleiniana,
Vitex Negundo, and Babiana flabellifolia.

Sir Daniel Morris, K.C.M.G., the Imperial
Commissioner of .-Agriculture for the West Indies,
has arrived on a short visit to this country, and is
staying at St. Ermin's Hotel, Westminster. Sir
DANreL will attend the forthcoming International
Conference on Hybridisation and Plant Breeding,
to be held in London, and is announced to read
a paper on "The Hybridisation of the Sugar
Cane," on Thursday, .•\ugust 2.

•408

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

Flower Show at Scarborough. — A horti-
cultural show will be held in the Belvedere
Gardens, Scarborough, on July 26 and 27, in aid
of the funds of the Scarborough Hospital and
Infirmary. The grounds will be lent for the
purpose, and the £150 offered as prize money will
toe contributed, therefore the whole of the receipts
will be handed over to the hospital. It is intended
to make Carnations and hardy flowers the leading
features of the show, and there will be no classes
for Roses because the grounds contain ] 2,000 Rose
trees and bushes, many of which it is hoped will
be in flower. at the time of exhibition. No paper
collars are to be applied to any flowers at this show,
but the flowers must be shown naturally and in
yases. The , secretary is J, Victor Topham (c/o
Walshaw & Son, Scarborough) , and any informa-
tion can be obtained of Mr. J. W. Drew, M.A.,
Fashoda, Scarborough.

A Bit of Carnation History. — A French
horticulturist, B. Chabaud, has been making some
research regarding the origin of the remontant
Carnations, the progenitors of our present American
varieties, an account of which he contributes to the
Revue Hoyticole. The credit of originating this race
of Carnations has usually been given to M. Dal-
MAis, of Lyons, France, who it is said obtained the
' ' remontant ' ' Carnation about 1814, by artificially
crossing De Mahon with a variety Biohon, the off-
spring being crossed with the Flemish Carnation,
and the resulting progeny repeatedly crossed until
the type was fixed. M. Chabaud has found that
Tree Carnations were cultivated at OUioules,
France, in 1750, and even before that date, under
the name of Carnation Mahonnais, known also as
De Mahon. It flowered from September until
June, and possessed all the characters of, and still
is, a real remontant Carnation. Seedlings from
Mahonnais, of dwarfer growth, and more easy to
cultivate, have been obtained, but none more
floriferous than this type. M. Chabaud adds : —
"We are convinced that all the true remontant
Carnations are the descendants of Carnation
Mahonnais." Florists' Exchange.

Lectures on Gardening. — Dr. Wilson, of
St. Andrew's University, has just completed a
series of lectures on practical gardening in Aber-
deen given under the auspices of the North of
Scotland College of Agriculture. The class has
been well attended throughout, and the lecturer's
instructions have been so much appreciated that it
js probable he will be invited to address the
Aberdonians on a future occasion. The lectures
were given in the class room of the Professor of
Botany in the University of Aberdeen, the average
number of those attending the lectures having
been about 120.

Orchis. — The second part of this periodical,
edited by Professor Udo Dammer, has been issued.
It is of folio size, with the text in double column.
Structural details and physiological endowments
occupy a large space, but cultural matters are not
overlooked. Professor Pfitzer contributes an
article on the morphology and mode of growth of
Orchids. Mr. Volkens writes on the Orchids of
Kihmanjaro. A translation of M.Noel Bernard's
article on the symbiosis of certain fungi with
Orchid roots is given, and a large coloured plate
of Oncidium tigrinum, var. splendida, is added.

Mr. Thomas Young.— On June 16 Lady
BuLLOUGH presented to Thomas Young, her gar-
dener, a silver cup in appreciation of his talent.
During the two years he has been there, writes
"J.C.," Mr. Young has re-modelled the whole
place. The gardens are very extensive, and Sir
George and Lady Bullough are devoted to gar-
dening. There are 200 yards of glass, also kitchen
garden, and extensive pleasure grounds, which
are kept in the best of order. The climate is very
mild, but the rainfall is extraordinary. The whole
Island " Rhum " is swept in winter by heavy gales
from the Atlantic, yet in summer it is a most

delightful place. Mr. Young is a skilful grower
of " Malmaison " Carnations, and in 1898, when
gardener at Warren Tower, Newmarket, he showed
a group at the Royal Horticultural Society which
was awarded a Silver Flora Medal. He is also a
good grower of Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, and
won first prizes at Edinburgh for many years in
succession.

A Curious Banana Stem. — A bunch of young
Bananas, with a peculiarly curved or twisted stem,
has been forwarded to the office of the Imperial
Department of Agriculture by the Hon. J. Sealy,
M.D., through Mr. J. R. Bovell, F.L.S., F C.S.,
Agricultural Superintendent, Barbados. An
illustration of this curious abnormality is given in
the Agricultural News, Barbados. Dr. Sealy
reports that five trees have shown this condition.
In every instance the bunch seems to stick at the base
of the leaves, and the stem, elongating rapidly,
becomes curved. In every case where the bunch
has been allowed to remain on the plant, it has
finally dropped off through the rotting of the
stem. Probably, remarks the Editor, the drying
up of the bases of the leaves, owing to drought or
disease, may contribute to this curious growth.
In this case the rotting of the stem, above referred
to by Dr. Sealy, is due to injuries received, when
curvature is taking place, through the bunch stick-
ing at the constricted bases of the leaves.

THE LONDON MARKETS AND

THEIR SUPPLIES.

(Continued from page 163.)

SPITALFIELDS.

The district where this market is situated is
much more interesting historically than for
its present-day aspect. Since the latter
part of the seventeenth century it has been a
silk-weaving centre, the industry having been
introduced by the French Huguenots who
settled there after the expulsion carried out by
the Edict of Nantes. In consequence it became
a business district of much importance at one
time, and led to a concentration of population
which partlj' resulted in the establishment of
the Spitalfields Market. This covers an area
of nearly three acres between Commercial
Street, Spital Square, and Brushfield Street.
It is, consequently, near to Liverpool Street
and Bishopsgate Street stations on the Great
Eastern Railway. Growers in the northern
dictricts bring in their produce by the Kings-
land Road, Hackney Road, or Bethnal Green
Road, while those from the east follow the
Mile End and Whitechapel roads, the distri-
butors to the dense masses of Limehouse and
Poplar taking the main Commercial Road. The
market is thus in touch with both large pro-
ducing and consuming areas, and it is not sur-
prising it has become of sufficient importance
to attract the special attention of the City Cor-
poration and the London County Council.

For a long period it remained one of the
chartered proprietary markets, and the com-
plaints urged by salesmen against the charges
and methods are old-standing grievances. It
was, no doubt, largely due to these, and to the
fact that a real need existed for a good market
in the locality, that an effort was made by the
Great Eastern Company to establish one at
Bishopsgate Street. Either the lessee or the
trustees, or both, were, however, enabled by
the charter to stop this, and the company was
forced to transfer its market to Stratford.
In some respects this has proved to be an
advantage, for there are now two markets avail-
able to growers and buyers, in both of which
much business is transacted. The Spitalfields
market has been now taken over by the Cor-
poration of the City of London, for it was
announced some time since that " the freehold
had been secured subject to a lease granted by
the Goldsmith trustees to Mr. Robert Horner
at a ground rent of £5,000 per annum. Under

a condition of that lease Mr. Horner had rebuilt
the market at a cost of £80,000.

One characteristic of Spitalfields is the large
number of salesmen who are themselves
growers. In other words, the producers sell
their own goods in many instances. An ex-
ample of this class, who is well known to
numerous readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle^
is Mr. G. Hammond, of Brentwood, who,
with his sons, has been both grower and
salesman for a long period, and has gained
a high reputation as a fruit cultivator. When
this system can be carried out conveniently it
offers an obvious advantage, but it is especially
adapted for growers who have sons or other
relatives in the business.

Fruit and vegetables are extensively repre*
sented at Spitalfields, but it could scarcely be
ranked as a market for high-class, produce,
though much good fruit is sold there, and the
prices are quite up to the average. Still, the
demand is mainly for low-priced goods to meet
ths requirements of the neighbourhood.

STRATFORD.
Enormous quantities of market-garden pro-
duce from Essex and the eastern counties are
disposed of at Stratford, and it is probable that
the market will develop to still larger propor-
tions in the near future. It covers a consider-
able area south of the main road to Ilford and
Romford within the loop formed by the Great
Eastern line to Colchester, and the London,
Tilbury, and Southend line, and has in its im-
mediate neighbourhood some seven stations — ■
i.e., Stratford, West and East Ham, Plaistow,
Upton Park, Maryland Point, and Forest Gate.
Being in direct communication with the market-
garden district extending from Barking and
Ilford to Rainham, Romford, and Brentwood,
much produce can be brought by road, and the
more distant Essex gardens are conveniently
reached by rail. As a distributing centre for a
thickly-populated area of the eastern, north-
eastern, and northern portions of London, Strat-
ford has become very useful and important.
Cheap vegetables and fruits are mostly in de-
mand, the sale for better-quality produce being
more limited; in fact, some growers, like Mr. E.
Rochford, say it is of no use for the best Grapes,
Cucumbers, and Tomatos. Others, again, have
found that, in moderate quantities, the sale has
been as ready and the prices as good as those
in the leading markets. Something, no doubt,
depends upon personal connections in these
cases, but at the same time I should recommend
Stratford as a safe market for the consignment
of first-class goods. For vegetables grown in
large quantities, and which have to be disposed
of in tons, it affords a means of reducing the
cost of carriage for all the eastern districts, and
is especially welcome to those who send their
crops by road, because so much time is saved
in the journeys. Lewis Castle.

{To be concludfii.)

TRADE MEMORANDUM.

Thos. Smith, alias C. E. Colman, H. Raven-
hill, &c., gardener, Leeds, was charged at Peter-
borough on remand with obtaining, with intent to
defraud, the sum of £3 15s. from Messrs. Brown,
florists, on February 1. James Bryan said he was
manager for Messrs. W. & J. Brown, florists, of
Peterborough. Last January his firm advertised
in the Gardeners' Chronicle for Geranium cuttings.
In reply to that advertisement they received a
letter from a man at Leeds who gave the name of
Smith. They wrote for a sample and received it,
and on January 31 Messrs. Brown sent a postal
order for £5 14s. with an order for plants to the
address given at Leeds, post-dated seven days.
They received a second letter returning the postal
order because defendant was leaving Leeds, and
could not cash it before he left. He sent a second
postal order to a man giving the name of Colman,

June 23, 19CG.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

409

at Hull, by request, and it was acknowledged, and
a telegram sent stating the goods had been for-
warded. No goods were received. Chief Con-
stable Lawson said that the prisoner had admitted
the offence in a voluntary statement he made to
him, and also when he was brought before the
magistrates on the first occasion. He admitted
writing all the letters and telegrams, and sending
them to Messrs. Brown, and that at the time he
had no plants in his possession. He admitted a
similar charge at Cambridge, and that he was con-
victed and fined 40s. at Liverpool on April 19,
1905, for obtaining money by false pretences.
The prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to
to the full possible term of imprisonment : six
months, with hard labour.

A CAUTION.
Our attention has been called to certain adver-
tisements appearing in some of the daily papers,
and offering seeds, supplied through the post only,
in packets. These seeds are stated to germi-
nate very speedily, and to furnish plants of a
highly decorative character with a minimum of
care and expenditure. In these days of " penny
packets" the price cliarged seems large. In any
case, it is best to deal with responsible tradesmen
of known reputation and not to put faith in state-
ments as vague in character as they are florid.

THE HERBACEOUS BORDER.
Day Lilies.

The varieties of Hemerocallis have increased
rapidly, and there are fully a dozen desirable sorts.
All are hardy and of easy growth in deeply dug,
moderately-enriched soil with abundance of mois-
ture in spring and early summer, especially when
throwing up their flower stems. For the amateur
[provided cats are not numerous — Ed.] this is a dis-
tinctly good plant, requiring no supports or stakes,
flowering over a long time and being useful for
cutting. The plants are readily increased by divi-
sion almost at any time, but preferably in spring.

The first to open its flowers early in May is H.
Middendorfii. This is a smaller plant than some
others, and the pale yellow flowers are only of
moderate size. H. flava is the variety best
known in gardens and certainly one of the best ;
its clear yellow flowers are freely produced and
they last for a long time in good condition. H.
Dumortierii throws up vigorous stems, having
bronze-orange blooms, the petals of which are of
a deeper tint on the outside. H. " Gold Dust " is
of medium growth in foliage, yet produces extra
strong flower stems each carrying from six to ten
blossoms of very rich yellow ; the bronze reverse
of half the petals makes this variety very con-
spicuous.

H. " Apricot " is probably one of the best forms
of the genus ; the thick broad petals build up a
shapely bloom of clear yellow colour, exceptionally
sweet and freely produced on stiff stems, which are
continuously thrown up over a long season. H.
Thunbergii opens its flowers in July, and, therefore,
is more valuable, extending the season and pro-
ducing more bloom than any other variety ; in
colour it is a clear canary-yellow.

H. citrina, citron yellow, is of medium growth.
H. " aureole " is a distinct shade of bronze-yellow,
and very vigorous in growth. H. luteola is one of
the latest to flower, grows perhaps more robust than
any other variety, and in colour is pale yellow.
H. aurantiaca major is of the largest size, the
blooms are fully 6 inches in diameter and of a rich
shade of orange-yellow. H. graminea, or, as it is
sometimes named, minor, is an intensely rich
orange-coloured form, with stiff' flower stems, bear-
ing numerous blossoms. H. " Dr. Kegel " is a late
flowering variety with rich apricot-coloured blooms,
flat in form, and quite a free flowering variety.
H. flammea is a new early-flowering variety of rich
yellow colour. H. fulva, brown, and H. f. disticha
plena are useful late flowering varieties, the latter
growing especially strong. E. Molviieiix.

HYBRID BELL-FLOWERS.

PL.A.NTS resulting from the crossing of two
species of Campanula include some of the love-
liest garden flowers in cultivation, and I should
like to draw attention to several which are par-
ticularly noteworthy. It is a useful method,
when writing of plants of hybrid origin, to indi-
cate the same by a distinctive mark, and the one
generally accepted is a cross (x) affixed just
before the specific name.

Probably the finest of dwarf-growing dark blue

produces its intense viclet flowers in amazing
profusion when planted in positions which suit
it ; but in quite half the gardens where it is
grown it is far from being a success. Then,
again, the pendent habit of the blossoms — one of
its greatest charms — does not make for effective-
ness when massed for colour in the border. la
the hybrid the characteristics of the parents are
most happily blended. Not quite 6 inches in
height, the flowers are produced almost erect,
and are nearly as large as those of C. carpatica.

,\

Fig. 165. — CAMP.^NUL.^ carp.\tica "white star.'\

Dell-flowers is Campanula x G.F.Wilson. This
splendid perennial is the result of crossing C.
puUa, a fine European species with intense vio-
let flowers, with the favourite C. carpatica,
native of Eastern Europe and especially of
the Carpathian Mountains. The latter species
has large, cup-shaped flowers of a bright but
rather pale blue colour, and grows to a height
of 9 to 12 inches. It was a happy occurrence
when the two species above named united to
produce the lovely Bell-flower G. F. Wilson.
Campanula ptiUa is an exquisite plant, and

while the colour is a pretty shade of violet-Diue.
Quite as hardy as the commonest weed, this
flower requires very little more care, and may
be used alike for the front of borders and for
the rock garden. Thece is a form, probably a
seedling variety, which has foliage ot yellowish-
green ; but OIK: cannot recommend it, as the
colour is not bright enough to save the some-
what sickly appearance.

Of quite a different habit, although having one
parent in common with the above-named hybrid.
Campanula X Hendersoni is the result of cross-

410

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

ing C. carpatica and C. alliarijefolia. One might
be excused for suspecting the Chimney Bell-
flower of " influence " in the production of this
excellent plant, so similar is the erect pyramidal
habit at first sight. Considering the attractive
appearance of C. alliariasfolia, although that
species .is effective for borders and wood-
lands, the refined appearance of Hender-
son's Bell-flower comes as a surprise. The
exquisite colouring, too — a delicate tint of
pale blue — is most distinct and pleasing ; while
the floweis, produced with great freedom on
ei-ect, branching stems, 1 to 2 feet high, are
large and open well. Harmonising with the
soft colouring of the flowers, the slightly hoary
appearance of the foliage adds the last touch to
a plant at once distinct, showy, and beautiful.
A third hybrid having C. carpatica (see fig. 165)

from the ciossing of C. fragilis and C. isophylla
alba, and it is interesting to consider the why
and wheieiore of the variegation. In habit, the
hybrid is more erect than either of its parents,
and well-grown plants may easily be mistaken,
at a distance, for sinall-leaved, silver-edged
Pelargoniums. In addition to the clear, silvery
margin which characterises each fully-grown
leaf, there is to be seen in the younger foliage a
pretty tinge of rose colour, which adds not a
little to the beauty of the plant. Usually one
hesitates to recommend plants Avith variegated
leafage — there is often an over-abundance in
greenhouse and garden ; but in this instance the
subject under notice may well be exempted from
the ban, partly on account of its extremely at-
tractive appearance, but chiefly because of its
singular origin, being, so far as I recollect at

further definite knowledge, what the other parent
might be, it is almost certain that C. punctata
(nobilis) would be named. >

Campanula X Burghalti has large, pendent,
lather long, bell-shaped flowers, of a rich, satiny-
purple colour, beautifully marbled with darker
and paler shades ; while C. X Van Houttei dif-
fers chiefly in that the flowers are of a paler and
rather more blue shade, and are not so con-
spicuously mottled. Both plants grow about 2:
feet high, and produce masses of flowers in the
axils of the luxuriant leaves which clothe the'
erect stems from base to tip.

When speaking of C. x Balchiniana, I should
have also mentioned a second hybrid, which
claims almost identical parentage. C. X Maj'i
is the production of C. fragilis and the blue-
ftowered C. isophylla, and might almost be-
taken, when out of flower, to be a green-leaved
C. X Balchiniana. The most distinctive feature
of C. X Mayi (see fig. 166) is the hoary tomentum
which clothes the entire plant ; and, by the way,
this is also a characteristic of C. X Balchiniana)
in a less degree. When one considers that C-\
fragilis is glabrous, and in. the way of being j
glaucous, while C. isophylla is only very
slightly tomentose, there appears causs for sur-
prise that their progeny should be distinguished
by so hirsute a covering. So pronounced is ther
hairiness that one has considerable difficulty, in
some stages of growth, to distinguish between
May's Bell-flower and Campanula mollis — a very
distinct, woolly-leaved species. ^ ,

The flowers of C. X Mayi are a deep slat3'-blue
in colour, and in size about equal to those of C.
isophylla.

It is a point for biologists to decide whether
or not the exceptional hairiness of C. X Mayi
indicates, in the case of one or other of the.
parents, the probable existence at one time of
a progenitor more remarkable than the present-
day types for hirsute characteristics. E. Horton,.
Nesion, Cheshire.

Fig. i66. — c.\MrANUL.\ x mayi. flowers sl.\ty-blue.

for one of its parents is Campanula X Fer-
gusoni. W'hen it becomes known, there is
no doubt but that this plant' will prove a great
favourite. The combination of two such excel-
lent plants as C. carpatica and C. pyramidalis
alba was sure to produce something worth
having. Possessing a more bushy habit than the
last-named parent, with flowers of a soft shade of
pale blue, produced with great freedom on
rumerous, slender, erect branches, the hybrid
will no doubt be very useful for supplying
flowers that will be appreciated when cut. As
a border plant, it scarcely leaves anything to be
desired ; while it is, perhaps, a better subject for
pots than the old Chimney Bell-flower, since it
forms compact bushes about 2 feet in height.

Campanula x Balchiniana is the only Bell-
flower with variegated foliage that we are ac-
quainted with. It is supposed to have resulted

present, the only first hybrid with variegated
foliage resulting from the crossing of species
with normally-coloured leaves.

C. X Balchiniana will no doubt prove hardy in
positions which suit C. isophylla, but it is only
under glass that the best effect is obtainable,
with the silver and green foliage touched with
rose, and the pretty, pale blue flowers.

There .ire two plants in the trade which pass
under the distinguishing names of Burghalt's
and Van Houtfie's Bell-flowers, and they are two
of the best border plants in cultivation. Proba-
bly no one is able to definitely state the origin
of these fine hybrids, and that is no doubt the
reason why they are occasionally given specific
rank in catalogues, or are placed as varieties of
C. latifolia. The last-named plant is very evi-
dently concerned in the production of the plants
referred to, and if one were to decide, without

CULTURAL MEMORANDA.

HERBACEOUS CALCEOLARIAS.

Seeds of the Herbaceous Calceolaria can bet
sown in May, June, and July, but the plants,
raised from that sown during June will gene-
rally give the best results. Sow in well-
drained pots or pans, filled with fine, rich, sandy
soil. Make the soil firm, and, above all, porous.
If the soil in the seed pan is dry, partially sub-
merge the pots in water before sowing.' The
seeds of these plants are very small, and
must be handled very carefully. When sown,
cover the seeds lightly with fine soil, and arrange
the pots in a moist, shady part of a vinery.
Place a piece of glass over the pots, for this will
keep the soil moist, and also hastens germi-
nation. Turn the glass daily until the seedlings
are through the soil, after which it must be;
removed altogether. The plants should be;
transplanted as soon as they make their second,
leaf, for if left too long in the seed pan they
will never make good plants. Similar soil may
be used for their potting as in the seed pans,
and care must be taken to select the weaker
seedlings as well as the strong ones, for the best
colours are often found in the seedlings last
germinated, while the stronger seedlings pro-
duce the greatest percentage of plants with
yellow flowers, or flowers in which yellow pre-
dominates. Great care must be taken to afford
requisite shading, for the young leaves are soon
destroyed if they are exposed to the direct rays
of the sun. The seedlings should never be
allowed to become dry at the roots. ,.They
should be given frequent sprinklings with rainr
water. When the young plants have four or fivtr

June 23, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

411

leaves developed, place them separately in
thumb pots that are provided with good drain-
age. See that the soil in which they are potted
contains a good proportion of silversand.
When potted, place the plants in a cold frame,
and afford ventilation on all possible occasions.
Kndeavour to keep the plants in a healthy
growing state, for should they receive a check
they are certain to be attacked by aphis. Fumi-
gation is the best remedy for this pest, and it
should be done in the evening, taking care to
shade the plants the next morning from the sun.
In September the plants will be large enough
for potting into large 60-sized pots. After their
shift the plants should be placed near to the
glass, and afforded a temperature of 40" to 45"^.
It will be an advantage if this degree of tem-
perature can be maintained without the use of
fire heat. The plants should be given their
final shift as soon as growth recommences in
spring. A suitable compost consists of a mix-
ture of good yellow loam, leaf-soil, and silver-
sand, to which is added a small quantity of
some approved fertiliser and a sprinkling of
soot. Pot firmly, but do not ram the soil into
the pots, or the roots will not ramify freely. A
light, airy greenhouse and a cool, moist atmos-
phere are essential requirements for the well-
being of the Herbaceous Calceolaria. When
the pots become full of roots, manure water
used with discretion is very beneficial, but as
soon as the flowers appear use clear water only.
C. Ruse, Mundcn Gardens, Watford.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed by his correspondents.)

Viola Blue Bell. — As evidence of the popu-
larity and continued effectiveness of this Viola I
have to-day seen surprising and beautiful edgings
or margins of it in the gardens of Earl de Grey,
Coombe Court, Kingston. There must be fully
a quarter of a mile of the variety, and from end to
end full of "foliage and bloom. When it is re-
membered that since it came as a chance seedling
in my late brother's garden at Ealing, over 30
years ago, literally hundreds of Violas of remark-
able variety and beauty have been put into
commerce, it is indeed a tribute to so old a form as
is Blue Bell to find it so largely grown and see it
in all directions, and notably in public gardens.
It is particularly charming for margins when
blended with the silvery Grass Dactylis glomerata
variegata. At Coombe Court propagation is con-
ducted by division rather than by cuttings. Mr.
Smith prefers division in the autumn after the
plants have been cut down and new tufts of shoots
formed, as then each divided piece is well rooted
and denser plants result, A. D., June 15.

Summer Pruning of Fruit Trees. —
Arising out of the article on this subject by East
Sussex, may I suggest that efforts be made to obtain
from gardeners and capable fruit-growers some
general consensus of opinion as to the most fitting
time to summer-prune fruit trees in the open. I
have found practice in'relation to time of doing this
work to materially differ, but taking the countrv-
generally, it may be assumed that either early,
say June, mid-season, July, or late, say August,
must give the best results, unless it be shown that
each month gives equally good results, which,
after all, may be the case. East Sussex advocates
summer pinching of shoots in June. A most
successful fruit-grower, Mr. C.J. Salter, of Wood-
hatch, I believe, however, prunes so late as the
end of July or early in August. In any case no
bush or pyramid trees can be more perfectly set
with fruit spurs than his are, for every branch is
practically a single cordon. The rationale or reason
of summer pruning is, I take it for granted, pretty
well understood, but the process of converting
wood buds into fruit buds is one of profound in-
terest in gardening. A. D.

Rehmannia angulata. — This has stood out
last winter in sheltered spots. A plant in its second
year in a warm corner under a south wall is a fine
sight now, having about 35 flower spikes, the
individual flowers, which closaly resemble those

of Incarvillea Delavayi, measuring 2 inches across
the lower lip. A hot, dry situation seems to suit
it best. Alfredo. Walker, Ulcomhe, Kent.

Carbolic Acid as a Fungicide. — In the
spring of 1905 carbolic acid in a much diluted
state — one pint to five quarts of water — was
recommended by a correspondent in the Gardeners'
Chronicle as a cure for the Cucumber spot. A
friend of mine placed some of the liquid, diluted
as indicated, in saucers at certain intervals amongst
his indoor Tomato plants with a view to prevent-
ing the plants being attacked by Cladosporium
fulvum and other diseases of the Tomato. The
results were most satisfactory, his plants and fruits
having remained perfectly clean and free from
disease until the crops were finished. In April
last I put some carbolic disinfectant powder in
small flower pots and stood them on the wall
plates at the colder end of Cucumber houses,
replenishing the supply a few times during the last
ten weeks as a preventive of the dreaded spot
disease. So far this precautionary measure has
been successful in keeping the enem.y at bay. In
addition to the carbolic powder I have during the
last week or ten days half-filled some jam jars
with the carbolic solution described above, and
stood them alongside the pots filled with the
disinfectant powder, in order, if possible, to make
the remedy or preventive more certain. About
six weeks ago 1 placed several jam-jars, filled as
described, among my Tomato plants, mostly on
either side of the central pathway, care being taken
in watering the plants not to let any water enter
the jars, as that would render the solution non-
effective. At the time of writing (June 11) the
plants of both Cucumbers and Tomatos are per-
fectly healthy and productive. I may add that in
addition to placing the above-mentioned preven-
tives in the (Cucumber houses care and judgment
have been exercised in the distribution of water in
the houses during the afternoon, the quantity and
time of distribution being regulated so as to allow
of tlie floors becoming fairly dry before sunset.
H. ir. Ward, Rayleigh.

The Late Mr. R. S. Baxter. — As one who
knew Mr. Baxter intimately in one portion of his
career, permit me to add a few words to the noti-
fication of his death published in the last issue of the
Gardeners' Chronicle. When I went to Kew, Mr.
Grainger — the guide, counsellor and friend of all the
youngsters — escorted me to a lodging in which I was
duly installed with the youthful Baxter, and there
we remained the whole time we were at Kew.
There was a special interest in the association as ii
happened, for his father and my uncle had been
competitors for a post under John Claudms
Louden, though the elder Mr. Baxter proved the
successful candidate. The latter frequently visited
his son at Kev/, and I thus made an acquaintance
which was increased by several subsequent visits
to the old garden at Oxford. Both father and son
possessed an uncommon knowledge of, and remark-
able memories for, plants. I was often astonished
at the keen discrimination of minute differences
displayed by Mr. R. S. Baxter, and if he had
applied himself to the work, he would have
become a botanist of considerable ability. It
appeared at one time that a fine prospect had
opened out for him, but the unforeseen happened
as usual, and he never attained the position for
which his undoubted natural skill should have
fitted him. The name of Baxter has been an
honoured one in Oxford, and will always be in-
effaceably associated with the last century history
of the interesting old garden. L. Castle.

Cattleya Mendeli "The Queen." — Upon
reading your reporter's comments on our exhibit
at the R.H.S. Meeting of the 12th inst., we desire
to point out to you the error in quoting Cattleya
Mendeli "The Queen" as a "promising very
delicate blush white flower." This Cattleya is
absolutely snow white, sepals, petals, and lip, the
only colouring being a few lines running right back
in the throat. Further, the plant in question is
a well-known one, having been acquired from the
collection of the late Mrs. S. Briggs-Bury under
the name exhibited. Hugh Low &• Co. [Our
correspondent described the flower as it appeared
to him at the time. — Ed.]

Eucalyptus coccifera at Powderham. — I
enclose flowering sprays cut from the old Eucalyptus
that has for many years been a feature in these
gardens. At the present time it is a striking object
covered with its white, palm-scented flowers, which
evidently prove a strong attraction to myriads of
bees. Visitors often mistake this tree for a huge
Willow, which it somewhat resembles at a distance.

Its closeness to the water and its narrow Willow-
shaped leaves help to confirm this idea. 'The
tree is of huge dimensions measuring 14 feet in
circumference at 4 feet from the ground [see fig. in
Gardeners' Chronicle, July 26, 1879]. At 8 or 10 feet
high it branches into large spreading limbs — each
a fair tree in itself — and has a spread of 30 yards.
This is no doubt the finest example of its kind in
the country, and is probably about 70 years old.
Thcm.is Bolton, Powderham Gaidcns, Devonshire.
[Many thanks ; the flowers are very pretty and
agreeably fragrant. — Ed.]

IXORA WiLLIAMSI AND OTHERS. — It was
like harking back to observe plants of this
seedling of the year 1873 shown so well at the
last meeting at the Horticultural Hall. These
were not unwieldy specimens like those we were
accustomed to find in collections of stove plants
in years gone by, but neat little specimens grow-
ing in 4-J and 6-inch pots, and bearing from
four to six heads of bloom, set off with
healthy, green foliage, reaching down to the rims
of the pots. The late J. Fraser, of Lea Bridge
Nursery, recommended the cultivation of Ixoras
as annuals, and their adoption in the young state
as market plants, a purpose for which they are
admirably suited. As plants for the market, the
large range of colour in the flowers, and their
handsome, massive appearance, together with the
hardy evergreen foliage, eminently fit them. The
range of colours in the flowers, from scarlet,
orange, red, pink and white, make the plants
suitable for dinner table and room decoration.
The plants strike readily from cuttings inserted in a
regular bottom heat of 80" Fahr., in a close case,
the shoots taken as such , like others of the Peruvian
bark family, being in a half-matured state. It is
an easy matter to graft Ixoras, and by this means
to restore straggling specimens to symmetrical
proportions. I. Williamsi was figured in the
Gardeners' Chronicle, on May 11, 1872. M.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL.

EXHIBITION OF FLORAL DECORATIONS.

Ju-NE 20. — A special exhibition of floral deco-
rations was held by the Royal Horticultural
Society in the Hall, Vincent Square, on the above
date. Although classes for floral displays are
included in the schedules of most local flower
shows, and prizes are offered at the exhibitions
of mo^t jpicial floral societies, as at the National.
CJilycan-t-h2mum Society's exhibitions where they
form a notable and attractive feature, this is the
first occasion on which the premier horticul-
tural society has devoted a show exclusively
to this branch of the florists' art At the out-
set we may say that the exhibition was disap-
pointing, not that we mean to infer that the
show was a failure, for the hall presented a
bright appearance, but there lacked originality,
and everything being on the stereotyped plan. Al-
most all the thirty odd tables followed the same
type of decoration — a centre-piece, generally
a metal flower displayer, with its accompanying
corner-pieces, and trails of Smilax and Aspara-
gus. It would have been a relief to see the old
flower bowls used as a change, but the rustic
displayers quite held the field. Another disap-
pointing fact was the absence of most of the
best-known London and provincial florists. The
most notable arrangement was a cross, with
anchor on one side and heart on the other. The
cross itself was composed of flowers of a white
Stock, with bands of Forget-me-nots running
across the base, while sprays of Cymbidium
hung over from the top. The anchor was of
Marechal Niel Roses and Erica Cavendishi, a
pleasing combination of colour. jVnother c'eco-
ration in the form of a large bell attracted
much attention, but was in questionable taste.
The outside was of white H}-drangea, and it
was lined with white Pinks. The tongue and
ropes were formed of pink Sweet Peas, but we
considir theeffect was spoiled by the inclusion
of a spray of Roses inside the bell. The prin-
cipal flowers used in the table decorations were
Roses, Sweet Peas, Centaureas, Aqui'egias, Car,-
nations, and Poppies.

In every instance in which Roses were used,
they drooped badly in the afternoon, and in
some cases they had the appearance of having
been trampled upon. The grasses and foliage
varied little in the individual exh bits — Aspara.
gus, principally A. Sprengeri, Adiantum Fern,

412

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

and grasses with long panicles. Gypsophila was
almost universally used. Some of the com-
binations of colours were good ; one table that
pleased us was arranged with pink Centaurea
and young tips of golden Holly branches, with a
little Adiantum Fern. Another pretty effect
was obtained with a pale pink show Pelar-
gonium Lily of the Valley, and a few sprays
of liriza, the Dodder grass, with trailing Aspara-
gus. A very bright but overcrowded table was
arranged with the common yellow Iris, the same
coloured Columbines, and Geum coccineum,
•with Asparagus and Smilax, the whole relieved
■with sprigs of Gypsophila. Among the " vate
classes," the be=t effects were obtained w th
Irises. A vase of tali blue " flags," with a spray
or two of Viburnum opulus and a trail of tiie
black Briony, Tamus communis was one oi the
finest exhibits in this section. Another vase
of large flowers of Souvenir de la Malmaison
Carnations looked heavy, although the blooms
were perfect specimens. The bouquets were
not remarkable, and those formed of Roses
looked anything but ornamental. The single
Roses seemed to last in condition the better,
and a design with Austrian yellow and Austrian
copper Roses was pretty. One exhibitor had
displayed his flowers in a base of damp moss,
but the result was disist:r, for tl ey hung almost
perpendicularly. A novel combination of
colours was seen in a hand bouquet, with
flowers of I.xias, a small yellow Oncidium, and
orange and yellow Aquilegias, on a base of
common Asparagus and trailing A. Sprengeri.

LIST OF AWARDS.
Gold Medal to Messrs. Perkins and Son, Coventry.
Silver-gilt Flora to W. Hayward, Kingston-on-Thames.
Silver-gilt Banksian to Miss A. F. Harwood, Colchester.
Silver Flora to Miss Anstey, West Norwood, S.K. ;
Mrs. Beckett. Elstree, Herts; Mrs. Williamson, Can-
terbury ; Wm. Treseder, Cardiff. Silver Banksian
to Miss A. L. King, Coggeshall ; C. Becht, Campden
Hill, N. ; G. D. Clark, Dover ; G. H. Sage, Richmond,
S.W. ; R. Edwards, Sevenoaks ; Miss Easterbrook,
Fawkham ; W. J. Pritchard, Elstree ; Mrs. Brewster,
Canterbury. Bronze Flora to Miss M. D. Watson,
Cheltenham. Bronze Banksian to Miss A. E. Coles,
Pinner; Grosvenor Floral Co., Belgrave Square, S.W. ;
Miss K. T. Sedgwick, Acton Hill ; E. Beckett, Elstree.

Scientific Committee.

June Yl—Pracnt : Dr. M. T. Masters, F.R.S.
(in the chair). Dr. A. B. Rendle, Dr. M. C.
Cooke, Dr. W. Somerville, Rev. W. Wilks,
Messrs. G. S. Saunders, H Gussow, G. Massee,
G. Gordon, E. A. Bowles, G. Nicholson, and
F. J. Chittenden (hon. sec.|.

Iris Diseased. — The Irises shown at the last
meeting from the Rev. R. Meyer have rotten
stems, the rhizome, as well as the basal part of
the leafy shoots, being affected, and the plants
finally dying, were reported upon by Mr.
Massee as follows : — " The Iris has the bac-
terial disease badly. No name seems to have
been given to the germ, but the disease was
worked out by Dr. Hewlett. Nothing can be
done now to the plants but to remove the
diseased rhizomes, and fill the holes with quick-
lime. Next spring, before the plants move, two
inches of the surface soil shouM be removed
and replaced by an equal mixture of fresh soil
and quicklime." The disease seems to be very
prevalent this season, and another specimen was
received on this occasion from Chingford.

Gardenias Dying. — Mr. Massee also reported
that " there was no specific disease present in
the Gardenia, but that it was a case of imper-
fect cultivation. Gardenias are always diffi-
cult to manage, and neglect in watering is
strongly resented."

Diseased Deodars. — Mr. Massee said that the
Deodars fiom Devon were under examination,
and that he would report upon them in due
course.

Insects Ealing Iris. —Mr. Saunders said that
*' the caterpillar attacking Iris Delavayi, from
York, is that of the Iris wainscot moth, Non-
agria sparganii, which feeds upon the common
yellow Iris, and on other species. Handpick-
ing is the only means of dealing with the pest.
The moth is a reddish yellow one, measuring
, about an inch and a half across the open
wings."

Polatos Failing. — Potatos which had failed
to grow, and others which had produced very
weak, spindly shoots, were received from two
localities, Romford (Essex) and Affpuddle (Dor-
set). Concerning the former, the senders say :
— " The Potatos sent are of the variety called

Empress Queen. They are from new Scotch
seed grown in Fifeshire, and planted in well
cultivated soil. They have been planted two
months, and only about half of them are
through the ground, most of those that are up
being very weak. Those that are not up have,
in some cases, not started to grow, and look
as if they never would do so, while others are
growing very weakly, and the sprouts seem to
have some disease in them. They appear to
grow a certain length, and then the stems go
rotten, and in some cases a weak sprout shoots
out again. There are nine acres so affected."
Concerning those from Dorchester, it was writ-
ten : — "Several lines of Potatos have been
irregularly affected in the manner of the tuber
enclosed (having a very large number of weakly
shoots), and others in the neighbourhood are
suffering in a similar way. The seed appears
sound and good, but, while part of the row
comes through all right, there are gaps where
the first sprouts die away, and only the second
(sometimes none) come through. A patch of
May Queen is quite unaffected, and all were
treated exactly alike. The seed is fresh from
Lincolnshire this year." It was remarked that
investigations in France had shown that this
failure to grow was due to the fact that the
starch could not be converted into sugar, and
therefore could not be used by the plant for
purposes of growth. Why this was so had not
been ascertained. Certain crosses were always
found to be affected in this way.

Flowers of Broad Bean Malformed. — Some
curiously malformed flowers of Broad Bean
were received from Mr. James Douglas, and
were taken for further examination by Dr.
Masters and Mr. Sau.nders.

Tulip Disease. — Lady Binning sent specimens
of Tulips badly attacked by the Tulip mould,
Sclerotinia parasitica. This fungus frequently
attacks the Tulip, forming olive brown,
velvety patches on the stem, leaves, and flowers.
At a later stage, smooth lentil-shaped lumps or
sclerotia (resting bodies), at first grey, then
black, appear, mostly in the outer parts of the
bulb, sometimes being so numerous as to form
black crusts. V. hen the mould is first observed
the plant should be taken up and burned to
prevent the formation of sclerotia, some of which
are often produced in the soil close to the bulb,
and thus endanger the subsequent crop. The
top layers of soil to the depth of about 2 inches
should be removed in winter, and a fresh dress-
ing of soil containing as litile organic matter
as possible should be substituted. The ad-
mixture of lime with this soil will assist in
checking the disease. (See Journal of the Royal
Horticultural Society, xxvi., p. 43.)

Diseased Pelargoniums. — Pelargoniums at-
tacked by Botrytis cinerea were received from
Isleworth. It was recommended to spray with
sulphide of potassium, and to give as much air
as possible.

THE ROYAL CORNWALL SHOW.

June 13 & It.— The Royal Cornwall Agricu'-
tural Association held their show at Redruth in
fine weather. The horticultural section pre-
sented a charming appearance, especially the
trade exhibits. In the competitive classes there
were not evidences of great cultural skill, yet on
the whole there was keen competition and a
good show. The awards in the more im;iortant
classes were as follow: —

For 12 Stove and Greenhouse Plants : 1st, A.
Lanvon, Esq. (gr. Mr. Bowden) ; 2nd, E. B.
Beauchamp, Esq. (gr. Mr. H. Williams). There
were some huge Codiaeums (Crotons), an old-
time plant Sanseveria Zeylanica, Euphorbia
splendens, Anthi rium Veitchii, tattleya Mossiae,
Laelia purpurata, Cattleya Mendeli, Maxillaria
tenuifoiia, &c.

The best collection of 12 miscellaneous plants
came from A. Lanvon, Esq. ; 2nd, Mrs. BicK-
FORD, Camborne (gr. Mr. Johns). In this class
Mr. Lanyon showed a large plant of Cycas
revoluta 10 feet across.

For 12 exotic Ferns, Mr. Williams (gr. Mr.
Foster) was 1st, and Mr. Lanyon 2nd. Cyathea
meduUaris, Dicksonia antarctica, and D. squar-
rosa figured prominently.

In Classes 20 and 21, the Devon Rosery &
Fruit Farm, Ltd., took premier honours for 36
and 24 Roses. Sir Geo, Smith obtained 2nd
prizes in both classes. The collections of fruits

and vegetables were remarkably good, showing
the effects of congenial climatic conditions.

In the trade exhib ts, Messrs. Black.more &
Langdon's Begonias attracted great admiration;
they won the Gold Medal offered by the Horti.
cultural Committee for the best collection, and
1st prize for a collection of c6 double Begonias,
among-t which were some charming seedlings
which are not yet on the market. This firm also
showed some fine American Carnations.

Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, of Exeter, staged
Rehmannia " Pink Perfection," which is a great
improvement on the old R. angulata, Carpen-
teria californica, a collection of Sarracenias,
Haemanthus Katherinae (with large orange-red
heads, a very striking piant), a well-berried
Kertera depressa, &c., also "Malmaison" Car-
nations, and the best of the American kinds.

Mr. W. B. Smale, of Torquay, exhibited a
fine collection of Zonal and fancy Pelargoniums,
the former section including many varieties of
Mr. Smale's own raising. These were grand,
both in size and colour. Sweet Peas, Paeonies,
Violas, Pansies, and other hardy flowers were
included in this attractive exhibit.

Mr. W. J. Godfrey, of Exmouth, showed a
great variety of Pelargoniums (fancy and Zonal),
Oriental Poppies of many shades, Nephrolepis
exaltata elegantissima, Cannas, Ivy-leaved
Pelargoniums, &c. This was an extensive ex-
hibit.

Other trade exhibits included Messrs. Tuplin
& .'-'ONS, Newton Abbot ; Treseder & Sons,
Truro ; Brouenshire, Camborne ; Hodge, St.
.\r.siell ; and the Devon Rosery & Fruit Farm,
Ltd., w-ho staged a group of Roses which in-
cluded some of the newer varieties.

BIRMINGHAM BOTANICAL AND
HORTICULTURAL.

June 13. — The first of two special flower shows
arranged to take place at Birmingham during the
present summer was held in the Edgbaston
Botanical Gardens on the above date. The dis-
play, which consisted of Orchids, Hybrid Rhodo-
dendrons, hardy and exotic flowers, was extensive
and meritorious. In addition to medals, awards of
merit were made to three Orchids, one to a hardy
border flower, and cultural commendations for
Gloxinias and handsome umbels of Dodecatheons.

Unfortunately rain fell during a portion of the
afternoon, and interfered with a number of visitors
to the show.

Orchids.

The Right Hon. J, Chamberlain, M.P., High-
bury, Birmingham (gr. Mr. J. Mackay), exhibited
a splendid group of Orchids, consisting chiefly of
Cattleya Mossiae varieties, Laelio-Cattleya Canham-
iana, Anguloa Clowesii and a pretty batch of Disa
Langleyensis. (Silver Gilt Medal )

Messrs. Charlesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, staged an effective group of Orchids, in
which were Miltonia vexillaria leucoglossa, Phal^-
nopsis Rimestadtiana, Odontoglossum Harryanum
crispum, O. Loochristiense, and a number of
choice Laelio-Cattleyas, all freely flowered.
(Silver Gilt Medal.)

Messrs. James Cypher & Sons, Queen's Road,
Cheltenham, contributed an interesting collection
of Cypripediums, Odontoglossums, Oncidiums,
Cattleyas, and Mas.ievallias. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Sander Sc Sons, St. .\lbans,also staged
a grcjp of Orchids, in which were many beautiful
Cattleyas, several Cypripediums, including C.
imperiale, C. Stonei x Rothschildianum, Phaius
Cooksonae, and Laelio-Cattleya Lady Wigan.
(Silver Medal.)

G. H. Kenrick, Esq., Whetstone, Edgbaston
(gr. Mr. J. V. Macdonald), sent a nicely arranged
group of well-flowered Miltonias, Vanda teres, &c.,
intermingled with ornamental leaved Begonias
and Ferns. (Bronze Medal.)

Miscellaneous Plants and Flowers.

Mr. W. Sydenham, Tamworth, sent a charming
group of hardy flowers, consisting of large masses
of double and single Pyrethrums, Oriental Pop-
pies, Campanulas, Incarvillea Delavayi (very
good). Aster alpinus, and German Irises. (Silver
Medal.)

From Messrs. Baker, Wolverhampton, came a
collection of Aciuilegias remark; ble for their large,
refined, and delicately coloured flowers. Cut
flowers of Zonal Pelargoniums, and sweet-scented
Violas were also shown in splendid condition,
(Silver Medal.)

June 23, 1908.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

413

Messrs.'' John Waterer & Sons, Bagshot,
Surrey, sent a comprehensive collection of choice
hardy hybrid Rhododendrons, in which the
varieties Viscount Powerscourt, W. E. Gladstone,
Mrs. Holford, Kate Waterer, Mrs. Tritton, and
Minnie were represented by profusely flowered
plants. {Silver Gilt Medal.)

R. Wilson King, Esq., Highfield Road, Edg-
baston (gr. Mr. D. Johnson), sent 18 well flowered
Glo.xinia plants, for which a cultural commendation
was awarded. Mr. King also showed a plant in
flower of Epidendrum cochleatum, a species rarely
met with nowadays.

Messrs. James Randall & Sons, Hatfield Nur-
series, Shirley, Birmingham, showed a group of
American Carnations containing growing plants
and cut flowers in e.xcellent condition. (Silver
Medal.)

Hardy flowers were extensively shown by
Messrs. GuNN & Sons, Brookfield Nursery, Olton,
who had .\nchusa italica with large flowers of an
unusually deep shade of blue. Campanulas,
Liliums, Oriental Poppies, Thalictrums, Si.\ifra-
gas and several very large vases of Sweet Peas.
(Silver Medal.)

Mr. C. H. Herbert, Hazelwood Road, Acocks
Green, staged a very bright group of hardy cut
flowers and miscellaneous flowering plants. The
pretty Schizanthus Wisetonensis made a good
centrepiece, surrounded by plants in pots of
Olearia Gunniana, laden with white Aster-like
flowers. A large assortment of I'yrethrums.
Erigeron speciosum superbum, lnulas,andahost of
oilier good things were included in this meritorious
display. (Silver Medal.)

From Messrs. Pope & Sons, lung's Norton,
came a group of plants and cut flowers, in which
were Kalanchoe flammea, South .\frican annuals,
some beautifully coloured plants of bedding Pelar-
gonium, Mrs. W. H. Cox, and cut flowers of
German Irises. (Bronze Medal.)

Messrs. BiCK Bros., Warwick Road, Olton,
staged a large collection of Violas and miscel-
laneous border flowers. (Bronze Medal.)

Mr. Robert Sydenham, Tenby Street, Birming-
ham, sent a collection of double and single Ane-
mones.

From Hugh Mitchell, Esq., Augustus Road,
Edgbaston, came a small collection of Pansies,
including several new varieties. (Vote of thanks.)

Mr. John E. Knight, Tettenhall, Wolver-
hampton, showed a miscellaneous collection of
greenhouse plants and hardy cut flowers, in which
were Roses, Tree Carnations, Pelargoniums,
Violas, &c. (Bronze Medal.)

Awards of Merit.

Lalio-Caltleya Canhamiana King Edward VII. (L.
purpurata magnifica X C. Mossiae grandis), from
Messrs. Charlesworth & Co , Heaton, Bradford.
Plant of vigorous growth, with large, hanasome
flowers, the lip being of a deep purple colour.

Phaltenopsis viohuca, Heaton variety, from Messrs.
Charlesworth & Co. Similar to the type, but
with larger and more highly-coloured flowers.

Cypripedium Maiidus (C. Lawrenceanum Hyeanum
X callosum Sanderae). A lovely pale-green
flo.ver, striped with white.

lyrellinim Mrs. Tippitts, from Mr. C. H. Her-
bert, Hazelwood Road, Acocks Green. Flowers
of medium size, with rose-coloured florets and a
ricli yellow disc.

Cultural Commendation
to Messrs. John Pope & Sons, King's Norton, for
unusually large, well-developed flowers ol Dode-
catheon Meadia robusta, borne on very tall, stout
scapes.

ROYAL SCOTTISH ARBORICULTUEAL.

Aberdeen Branch.

The memb;is of the recently-instituted branch
at Aberdeen of the Royal Scottish Arboricultural
Society had a very pleasant and instructive ex-
cursion the other day to the woods of Drum-
tochty, Kincardineshire, on the invitation of
Mr. Sydney J. Gammell, of Drumtochty and
Countesswells. Over forty of the leading pro-
prietors,' far'iors, and fortsters in the three
counties served by t'r.e branch — Aberdeen, Banff,
and Kincardine — were present. At the lovely
village of Auchinblae, a very hearty welcome
awaited them from Mr. Gammell. The com-
pany soon entered upon the first of the woods
to be inspected on the Drumtochty estate. Pre.
vious to the inspection, Mr. Gammell displayed
a plan of his estate, coloured, showing at a

glance the portions of the estate which had been
planted, indicating also the species of trees
and the dates on which they were planted.
Mr. Gammell also explained that he kept
a series of books in which were carefully
noted the acreage planted, the species of trees
inserted, w'lth the cost of purchase, planting,
and attention ; the progress made at certain
stag;s, and, indeed, a clear and comprehensive
record of everything which went on from the
arboricidiural as well as from the sylvicultural
point of view. The general plan on which he
proceeded, he explained, was to lay down a two.
storied high forest on the uplands of the estate.
At the end of 25 years the first thinning took
place, and at the end of the second rotation
of 2') years the wood had to be thinned very
heavdy and underplanted -nith Douglas Fir, the
estimate being that the latter would, at the' end
of 50 years, be as big as the Larch at 80 or 100
years.

About fifty acres of the lower portion of the
wood first entered was planted with Larch trees
some fourteen years ago, immediately after the
greit itorm which caused so much havoc among
the woods on t'ae east coast of Scotland. It was
at once observed by the company that disease
on these young trees was somewhat prevalent.
On the upper part of this wood a very fine lot
of Larch trees, apparently between 70 and 80
years old, were seen.

The party next inspected an extensive wood
of Tyrolese Larch, planted over a wide expanse
of hi Iside on which heme Larch had been blown
down or cut down some years ago. The young
trees had been planted little more than a foot
apa:t in the cup formed by the removal of the
sod, which was turned lo one side. There were
about 5,000 trees to the acre. Some discussion
here arose as to the comparative merits of the
Tyrolese Larch, as compared with the home
Larch reared in this country, and Mr. Gammell
showed another young plantation of Larch
grown from home-reared seed. From all that
could be seen, it appeared that the Tyrolese
Larch was a little earlier than the plants grown
from home-reared seed, but the plants in both
cases were so small that it was very difficult to
form a definite judgment on their respective
merits. A visit was next paid to the nursery,
where many young trees were seen in the pro-
ess of being reared, including Larch, Spruce,
Mountain Pine, Douglas Fir, and other trees
in large beds, besides a number of plots of other
trees, especially Oaks of the sessiliflora and
pedunculata varieties. From the nursery the
company proceeded to inspect a fine wood of
Larch trees planted nine year., ago. The much
letter grov, th and altogether healthier appear-
ance of the trees in this wood, as compared
With those which had f revlously been inspected,
was explained by the fact that the trees, al-
though not planted for so long a time as the
others, had been set down in prepared soil, on
whic'n tress had previously been growing, and
which had a considerable depth of leaf mould.

The effects of underplanting in a splendid
wood of Larch, Pine, Birch, and other trees was
next inspected. The only thing wrong here
was that in several cases the young trees had
been injured, presumably by the rubbing of
roe deer upon them, the tendency of roe
to do this being well known. Proceeding down
the hill to the valley, much admiration was
expressed by the botanists of the company at
the exquisite specimens of the Beech and Oak
Ferns met with on the way. Attention was then
directed to the finely-appointed estate sawmill.

GRAND YORKSHIRE GALA.

JUNE 20, 21, 22. — The 48th annual exhibition
at York took place in the Bootham Park on
the above dates. It may fairly be said that,
taking it as a whole, the exhibition was fully
equal to any held in previous years. Owing to
the somewhat inclement season, Roses and
fruit were not so extensively shown as on some
occasions ; still the quality was good. It may
be remarked that, although the committee
does not contain one gentleman directly con-
nected with horticulture, yet it is thoroughly
up-to-date in all its arrangements, and one sel-
dom hears a complaint from either visitor or
exhibitor.

Miscellaneous Plants.

In the class for a miscellaneous group of
plants to occupy a space not exceeding 300

square feet, J. Pickersgill, Esq., Westwood,
Leeds (gr. Mr. Donoghue), won the 1st prize.
Rambler Roses, white Phal^nopsis and Alo-
casias in variety were the prominent plants in
a charmingly-arranged group ; 2nd, Mr. W. A.
Holmes, Chesterfield, with a very bright, well-
arranged group, not quite so graceful ; 3rd, Mr.
J. S. Sharpe, Almondbury.

The best group of a similar character, but to
occupy only 200 square feet, was shown by Mr.
W. A. Holmes. He had a very nice lot of well-
grown plants, and arranged them effectively ;
2nd, Mr. W. Vause, Leamington.

A class for hardy herbaceous and perennial
plants and flowers. Bamboos, &c., with a poof
of water arranged for natural effect on a space
of 30 by 8 feet, was won by Messrs. J. Back-
house & Sons, Ltd., York Nurseries, with a
charming arrangement of rockery beautifully
planted with small Pines, Alpine plants and
hardy Ferns ; 2nd, Messrs. Artingdale, of
Sheffield, with a praiseworthy exhibit.

The competition in stove and greenhouse
plants was not anything like so keen as was
customary twenty years ago, though the speci-
mens exhibited were on the whole excellent.

The 1st prize in Class IV. was won by
Messrs. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham, and in
Class V. for five foliage plants by T. DixOK,
Esq. Messrs. Cypher & Sons were 1st for three
plants, and Mr. J. Blacker for three Crotons.
Messrs. Cypher & Sons had 1st prize for a
single specimen Croton, and for eight decora-
tive Palms in pots not exceeding 8 inches in
diameter.

For twenty Alpine and herbaceous plants Mr.
W. PvBus, Ripon, -won the 1st prize with a.
good lot.

The special prize offered by Messrs. James
B.yckhouse & Sons for Alpine plants open to
amateurs was won by Mr. J. Nicholson, York,
with a very commendable group.

i>
Orchids, &c.
The best table of Orchids arranged for effect
and measuring 12 feet by 5 feet was staged by
Messrs. Cypher & Sons, Cheltenham, who had
a capital display of well-grown plants, mostly
of the well-known species and varieties ; 2nd,
Mr. J. RoBSON, Altrincham, with a commend-
able lot of plants not quite so well arranged ;
3rd, Mr. Vause.

In the classes for ten Orchids in bloom of
distinct varieties, and also for six similar Or-
chids, Messrs. Cypher & Sons were prominent
first-prize winners. Notable plants in their col-
lections were: — Cattleyas Mossiae and War-
neri, Laelio-Cattleya Aphrodite and L.-C. Can-
hamiana ; Mr. W. P. Burkinshaw, Hessle (gr.
Mr. J. T. Barker), won 2nd prize in the larger
class with plant of choice varieties. His best
examples were L.-C. Amelia, C. Mossise Wag-
nen (a charming specimen), a seedling Thunia
with a lip resembling Pleione lagenaria, and
L.-C. Fascinator. The same gentleman was a
close second in the class for six varieties.

In the amateur classes this exhibitor held a
prominent place, as he also did in the class for
three Orchids. The Orchids, as a whole, al-
though scarcely comparable with those at the
Temple Flower Show, showed a wonderful im-
provement on those seen at York a few years
ago.

Pelargoniums. — The best display of Zonal
Pelargonium was shown by H. E. Leetham,
Esq., York (gr. Mr. R. Keightley) ; the exhibit
embraced a lot of sturdy, well-flowered plants.
The best four show Pelargoniums were exhi-
bited by Mr. W. F. Crowther.

In the classes for 12 Zonal Pelargoniums and
for six decorative Pelargoniums Mr. H. Pybds
was 1st with well-grown groups of plants splen-
didly flowered.

Mr. J. \V. Clarke was 1st for six double
Zonal Pelargoniums, whilst Mr. W. F. Crow-
ther held a similar position for four plants.
Table Plants. — Mr. J. Blacker was 1st and
Mr. J. F. Sharpe 2nd respectively in the open
classes for these plants ; while the Rev. S.
Yeais won chief honours in the amateur sec-
tion.

Hoses. — The best group of Roses in pots ar-
ranged for effect were those belonging to Mr.
J. D. Hutchinson, Kirbymoorside ; he was fol-
\owed by Mr. H. Pybus.

Carnations. — Mr. J. Pickersgill was an easy
1st for a group of Carnations in bloom with a
fine collection containing excellent examples of

414

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

all the leading varieties ; 2nd, H. Middleton,
Ksq. (gr. Mr. T. Wilkinson).

Gloxinias.-T:h^ best examples of these were

shown by R. Lawson, Esq. (gr. Mr. Dobson).

Begonias.-\st, R. J. Foster, Esq., ^^ether-

by (gr. Mr. J. Turton), with a capital lot ot

plants artistically arranged.

The class for eight distinct Begonias was
headed by Mr. F. Styan ; 2nd, Mr. Ferrier
Fuchsias.— iho premier prize for a group of
Fuchsias was secured by Mr. J. W. Clarke,
York ; 2nd, Mr. \V. Kettlewell. , ^ ^ ^ ^
Capt. Walker (gr. Mr. Clarke) had the best
group of Calceolarias.

Cut Flowers.
In the classes for 72, 48, and 36 Roses Mr. G.
Mount, of Canterbury, carried off the principal
prizes, although Mr. Hutchinson's flowers
in the class for 72 blooms were almost equal in
merit. ,, .„

The prize for twelve white or yellow Roses
was secured by Messrs. G. Prince & Sons, Ox-
ford. , ^

Collection of 12 Bunches of Stove and Green-
house Plants.— 1st, Makquis of Northampton
(gr. Mr. Searle) with a grand display arranged
in separate glass receptacles, which is a much
more effective manner of displaying the flowers
than is ordinarily seen.

The best 12 bunches of garden Roses were
set up by Colonel Mellish, Worksop (gr. Mr.
J. Mollender).

The open class for a collection of hardy cut
flowers, occupying a space measuring 15 feet
by 6 feet, was won by Messrs. Harkness &
Sons, Bedale, with a splendid bank of well-
grown flowers.

The prize vase or epergne of flowers ar-
ranged suitable for a dining table was displayed
by Mr. M. F. Middleton ; 2nd, Lord Herries
(gr. Mr. Lunt).

Messrs. Perkins & Sons won the first prize in
each of the classes for hand and bridal bou-
quets.

Fruits.
A Table Decorated with Rife Fruits. — 1st, Earl
of Harrington, Elvaston Castle, Derby (gr. Mr.
J. H. Goodacre). His best fruits were HI ck
Hambro' Grapes and Rivers' Early Nectarine,
the former being splendidly finished ; 2nd, Mr.
C. K. Simpson, York.

Collection of Fruits. — The class for 10 kinds
only, to include two sorts of Grapes, was won by
the Earl of Harrington ; 2nd, Earl of
LoNDESBOEO (gr. Mr. McPherson). In the simi-
lar smaller class for six varieties, the positions
of these competitors were reversed.

The Earl of Harrington also carried off the
principal prize for four dishes of fruits, being
followed by the Rt. Honble. Lord St. Oswald
(gr. Mr. Easter). Some cap.tal Madresfield
Court Grapes were included in the latter ex-
hibitor's group.

Grapes. — The best three bunches of Black
Hambro Grapes were shown by the Earl of
Harrington ; 2nd, F. J. O. Montague, Esq.
(gr. Mr. F. Murchison) ; 3rd, Lady Hawke (gr.
Mr. T. Dates).

Lady Beaumont (gr. Mr. Nicholls), showed
thebsst three bunches of White Grapes, F. J. O.
Montague, Esq., securing 2nd place.

The class for six Peaches was won by the
Earl of Feversham (gr. Mr. \Vili;ams) with a
fine dish of Hale's Early ; and that for six Nec-
tarinss by Mr. J. Brennand, Baldersby Park,
Thirsk (gr. Mr. Hathaway), with a capital dish
of the variety Early Rivers.

The b^st scarlet-fleshed Melon was shown by
the Earl of Harrington; the b:st green-fleshed
Melon by Lord Deramore (gr. Mr. Goodall) ;
and the best white-fleshed by Lord Londesboro.
Mr. J. D. Ellis, Worksop (gr. Mr. Alderman),
secured the premier prizj for Strawberries.

Vegetables.
The premier class was for a co'.lection of vege-
tables in six varieties, t"ie produce of Msssrs.
Sutton's s:eds. The fir;t prize was won by the
Duke of Portland, Welbec'; (gr. Mr. Gibson,
the writer of our weekly calendar on vegetables).
His examples of Centenary Pea and Perfection
Tomato were very fine; 2nd, Marquis of

KORTHAMPTON.

Prizes were a"so offered for vegtables raised
from seeds supplied by Messrs. Ed. Webb &
Son, Stourbridge, the first being won by the
Marquis of Northampton ; 2nd, Mr. T. Hague,
Carlton, Snaith ; 3r-l, Lady Beaumont.

NON-COMPETITIVE EXHIBITS.
Messrs. Kent & Brydon, Darlington, were
awarded the premier prize and also a Gold
Medal for an exquisite group which occupied
half the side of one of the large tents, and in-
cluded in the collection of plants were Rhodo-
dendron John Waterer, Mrs. A. S. Holford,
Malmaison Carnation, Princess of Wales, and
a splendid collection of rock plants well ar-
ranged

Messrs. John Peed & Son, Norwood, London,
S.E., showed Caladiums and Gloxinias.

Messrs. Richard Smith & Co., Worcester, had
groups of Herbaceous plants, Bambusa, &c.
(Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. Dickson's, Ltd., Chester, staged
Paeonies in var.ety, and flowers of other Her-
b.^ceous plants. (Banksian Medil.)

Messrs. James Backhouse & Sons, Ltd.,
York, had a well-arranged group of decorative
plants and flowers, and an exhibit of bouquets.
(Gold Medal.)

Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, were
awarded a Silver Medal for a good collection of
Paeonies.

Mr. A. F. Dutton, Iver, Bucks, staged a small
but good collection of Carnations. (Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Webb &- Sons, Wordsley, Stourbridge,
had a nice lot of Gloxinias, and were awarded
a Silver Medal.

Blessrs. W.m. Cutbush & Son, Highgate, Lon-
don, W., had a splendid group of miscel-
laneous plants and flowers, including a fine col.
lection of Carnations, Cardinal, Mrs. Burnett,
Fiancee, and Aurora, Rambler Roses, Lady Gay,
Mrs. F. W. Flight, Mrs. Wm. H. Cutbush, and
Hiawatha. (Gold Medal.)

Mr. John Forbes, Hawick, had a good dis-
play of Phloxes and Pentstemons. (Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. W. Clibsan & Son, Altrincham, had a
well-arranged group of Carnat.ons, Crotons,
Crested Begonias, Lobelia tenuoir, and
Nephrolepis Piersoni elegantissimus, and Were
awarded a Banksian Medal.

Mr. Vincent Slade, Staplegrove Nurseries,
Taunton, was awarded a Silver Medal for a
good stand of Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelar-
goniums.

Mr. A. Ll. Gwillim, New E'tham, had speci-
men blooms of Begonias, Gloxinias, Irises, &c.
(Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Jarman & Co., Chard, showed Zonal
Pelargoniums, Stocks, Carnations, and also the
new Centaureas, The Bride, The Bridegroom,
and the Bridesmaid. (Silver Medal.)

Messrs. Wm. .\rtindale & Son, Nether Green.
Shefiield, had an attractive display ot Violas.
(Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. W. & J. Brown, Stamford, had a mis-
cellaneous collection of hardy flowers. (Certifi-
cate of Merit.)

Messrs. Thos. S. Ware (1902), Ltd., Feltham,
staged Carnations and Begonias. (Silver Gilt
Medal.)

Messrs. Chaelesworth & Co., Heaton, Brad-
ford, had a grand display of Orchids, including
Laelio-Cattleya Aphrodite Queen of Spain,
L.-C. Canhamiana alba, L.-C. Fascinator var.
Star of the North. (Gold Medal.)

Mr. G. Yeld, Clifton Cottage, York, had a
beautiful collection of hybrid and cross-bred
Irises and Day Lilies (Hemerocallis) ircluding
Iris Lord of June, and Hemerocallis Tangerine
(First-Class Certificate). He also showed Ins
Hermia, very dwarf, purple, tinged with brown.
Messrs. E. P. Dixon & Sons, Ltd., Hull, dis-
played outside the tents a good collection of
ornamental trees and shrubs. (Gold Medal.)

Messrs. Wm. Wood & Son, Ltd , Wood
Green, London, N., had a miscellaneous assort-
ment of horticultural sundries.

Messrs. McDougall Bros., Manchester,
staged many samples of insecticides, fumigating
compounds, &c.

Mr. J. Don, Park Row, Nottingham, exhibited
Orchid peat and ]ilant tubs.

Court: and Mr. W. Hollingworth, instructor in
horticulture to the County Council, the judge,
congratulated the society and the donors of prizes
on the excellence of their orchards. The com-
petition was only started in April of this year, so
no time was given for preparation, and the fact
that he found the orchards in good condition and
well cared for reflected great credit on the com-
petitors, as it showed that they had systematically
looked after their trees. The first prize of 5
guineas (given by W. M. P. Price) was awarded
to W. J. K. Bennett, of Chashill, with 75 points ;
W. Alfred Apperly, Rodborough Court, Stroud,
was awarded second prize of 3 guineas (given by
W. T. A. Washbourn and W. J. G. Vicker), with
72 points ; and Mr. W. C. Williams, Ayland's
Lodge, Lydney, secured the third prize of 1 guinea
(given by W. Michael Lloyd Baker) with 70
points. Several competitors were highly com-
mended. The competition will be repeated next
season.

MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF
ENGLAND ORCHID.

June 5. — This meeting was held at the Royal
Botanical Gardens, Old Trafi'ord, in conjunction
with the Whitsuntide Show, which this year was a
very good one all round. Groups of Orchids
shown at the latter show were dealt with as Orchid
Society exhibits, and the following awards were
made : —

Gold Medals were awarded to Messrs. A:
Warburton, E. Ashworth, W. Duckworth,
Charlesworth & Co., and J as. Cypher & Sons.

Silver-Gilt Medals were awarded to Messrs. R.
Ashworth, Mrs. S. Woon, and P. Smith.

Silver Medal to J. W. Moore, Ltd., and a vote
of thanks to J. Cowan & Co., Ltd.

First-Class Certificates were awarded to Lselio-
Cattleya x Canhamiana, var. Queen Victoria,
from Messrs. Cypher & Sons, and Cattleya
Mossiae, var. Queen Victoria, from Messrs. Low
& Co.

Awards ot Merit to Dendrobium X Arthur
Ashworth (Dendrobium Dalhousieanum x D.
Brymerianum), from E. Ashworth. Esq., and to
Cattleya Mendeli, "Owen's variety," from Mr.
Wm. Owen. P. IF.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE ROOT, FRUIT,
AND GRAIN.

June 9. — A special meeting of the members ot
the Gloucestershire Root, Fruit, and Grain Society
was held at the New Inn, Gloucester, on the
above date, when prizes in a recent orchard
pruning competition were presented. This is a
new feature in connection with the society,
initiated by W. Maurice P. Price, of Tibberton

British Gardeners' Association. —

Amongst recent donations to tliis association the
secretary has announced the receipt of the follow-
ing sums : — Mr. Robert Sydenham, £10 ; Messrs.
S.\nder & Sons, £25; Dr. M. T. Masters,
F.R.S., £1 Is. ; and Mr. E. T. Cook. 10s. 6d.

THE WEATHER.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
The hottest day as yet. The first two days of the week
were very cool, but since then the day temperatures
have risen considerably. On the coldest day the highest
reading in the thermometer screen was only 57"^, whereas
five days later it was 76°, or 20'^ higher, and on the following
day 77'', which is the highest temperature as yet recorded
here during the present summer, but in no way exceptional
for the time of year. The nights, however still continue cold ;
indeed, during the present month there has not occurred a
single unseasonably warm night. On one night during the past
week the exposed thermometer fell to within2^ of the freezing-
point. At 2 feet deep the ground is at about an average
temperature, but at 1 foot deep is about 2"^ warmer than is
seasonable. Rain fell on three days, but to the aggregate
depth of less than half an inch. About 4 o'clock on the atter-
noon of the 16th. there occurred a very sharp shower of
rain and hail, and during the quarter of an hour it lasted,
nearly a quarter of an inch of rain and hail fell. This fall,
however, did not affect the bare soil gauge, through which
there has been no measurable percolation for over a fortnight.
The sun shone on an average for 5J hours a day, which is
about half an hour a day short of the June average. The
atmosphere still remains very calm, the rate of movement
in no hour during the last fortnight exceeding seven miles.
The mean amount of moisture in the air at 3 o'clock in the
afternoon was eight per cent, lessthan a seasonable quantity
for that hour. E. M., Berkhamstcd, June 20, 1906.

SCHEDULES RECEIVED.

Southampton Royal Horticultural Society's Rose
Show to be held at the County Ground on Wednesday, June
27, 1906.

The Reigate Rose Show, which is being strongly sup-
ported by most of the leading amateur and trade growers,
will be held in Mrs. Simpson's grounds, Wray Park, on
Friday, June 29. Many will remember how successful this
annual show was a few years ago, and we are glad to hear
that the revival bids fair to outshine the glory of its pre-
decessor. Mr. R. E. West is one of the energetic hon. sees,
and Mr. Alfred F. Blades is acting with him,

Hanley Horticultural Fete to be held in Hanley Park
on Wednesday and Thursday, July 4 and 5, 1906.

June 23, li^OC]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

415

IVIARKEITS.

CO VENT GARDEN, June 20.
tWe cannot accept any responsibility lor the subjoined
reports. They are furnished to us regularly every
Wednesday, by the kindness of several of the principal
salesmen, who are responsible for the quotations. It
must be remembered that these quotations do not repre-
sent the prices on any particular day, but only the
general averages for the week preceding the date of our
report. The prices depend upon the quality of the
samples, the way in which they are packed, the supply
in the market, and the demand, and they may fluctuate,
not only from day to day, but occasionally several times
in one day. — Ed.]

Cut Flowers, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Anemones (pink)
doz. bunches...

— coronaria varie-
ties

— fult^ens, fl. pi.
Azalea mollis, doz.

bunches
Calla £ethiopica,per

dozen

Coreopsis grandi-

flora, per doz.

bunches
Carnations, per

dozen blooms,

best American

various

— smaller do. ...

— Malmaisons ...
Cattleyas, per doz.

blooms
Eu'cliaris grandi-

tlora, per doz.

blooms

Gardenias, per doz.

blooms

Gladiolus, various,

per dz. bnchs..

— The Bride
Gypsophila ele-

gans, per doz.
bunches
Iris gernianica, per
bunch

— Spanish, per
doz. bunches...

Ixias

Lilac, per bunch ...
Lilium auratum ...

— candidum, per
bunch

— lancif oli um,
rubrum and
album

— longiflorum ...
Lily of the Valley,

p. dz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Marguerites, white,

p. dz. bunches

— yellow, per dz.
bunches

s.d. s.d.
16-30

16-30
3 0-40

4 0-60
2 6-40

4 0-60

2 0-40
10-20

3 0-80

10 0-12 0

16-2 0

9 0-12 0
5 0-90

3 0-40

0 9-10

16-30
2 6-40
10-20
2 6-30

16-20

16-26
2 6-40

4 0-80
9 0-12 0

2 0-30

2 0-30

Mignonette, dozen

bunches
Myosotis, per doz.

bunches
Narcissus, per dz.

bunches
Odon toglossum

crispum, per

dozen blooms
Paeonies, per doz.

bunches
Pelarg on i u m s,

show, per doz.

bunches

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Poppies (Iceland),
per doz. bchs.

— Oriental, per
bunch

— Shirley
Pyrethrums, dozen

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Rhodanthe, per dz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— Kaiserin A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty

— Madame Car-
not

— Madame Chat-
enay

— Mrs. J. Laing
Statice, per dozen

buncnes
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches ..

s.d.

1 6-
3 0-

3 0-
6 0-

0 6-
0 6-

3 0-

1 6-

2 0-

3 0-
1 6-

1 0-

2 0-

s.d,

3 0
20
40

2 6

0 0

5 0
G 0
5 0

1 0
0 9

60

80

4 0

2 6

3 0

4 0

5 0
3 0

2 0

6 0

2 6-30

3 0-
3 0-

3 0-

3 0-

6 0
5 0

8 0

5 0

3 0

6 0

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wtiolesale Prices,

Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

buncli ...

— — shortsprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri
Adiantum cunea-

lum, doz. bun.
Herberis, p. bunch
Croton leaves, per

bunch

Cycas leaves, each
Fern, English, p.

dozen bunches

— French, doz.
bunches

s.d. s.d.

16-20

0 6-09
0 6-10

4 0-60

2 6-30

10-16

16-20

2 0-30

3 0-40

s.d. s.d.
Galax leaves, per

doz. bunches... 1 G- 2 0
Flardy foliage

(various), per

dozen bunches 2 6-. 4 0
Hardy Grasses, per

doz. bunches... 2 0-30
Ivy-leaves, bronze 16-20

— long trails per

bundle 10-20

— short g reen,

doz. bunches... 2 0-30
Moss, per gross ... 5 0-60
Myrtle, per dozen

bunches ... 3 0-60
Smilax, per dozen

trails ... ... 3 0-60

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

Ampelopsis Veit-
chii, per dozen

A r a lia Sieboldi,
per dozen

— larger

Araucaria excelsa,

per dozen

Aspidistras, green,

per dozen

— variegated, per
dozen

Asparagus plumo-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri, doz.

— ten uissimus
per dozen

Begonias (tuber-
ous), per dozen

Boronia elatior, per
dozen ...

Bouvardias.perdz.

Calceolarias, yellow

C h r y s a nthemum
segetum

Clematis, per doz.

— in flower
C ocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen

Coleus ;

Crassula. hybrid,

per doz.

s.d. s.d.

60-80

4 0-60
12 0-15 0

12 0-30 0

18 0-30 0

24 0-36 0

9 0-12 0
00-80

8 0-10 0

50-80

18 0-24 0
6 0-80
4 0-60

6 0-10 0

8 0-90

18 0-24 0

9 0-18 0
3 0-50

6 0-90

S.d. s.d
Crassula, larger

size 18 0-24 0

Crotons, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen ... 4 0-50

— laxus, per doz 4 0-50
Drac^nas, perdoz. 9 0-24 0
Erica, per dozen... 24 0-26 0

— ventrico sa
magnitica -. 24 0-12 0

Euonymus, per dz. 4 0- y 0
Ferns, in thumbs,

per loo 7 0-10 0

— in small and

large 60's ... 16 0-25 0

— in48's, perdoz. 4 0-10 0

— in32's,perdoz. 10 0-18 0
Ficuselastica.p.dz. 9 0-lS 0

— repens.perdoz. 5 0-80
Fuchsias, per doz. 6 0-90
Heliotrope, per dz. 4 0-60
HydrangeaHorten-

sia, per dozen 9 0-24 0

— Thos. Hogg ... 12 0-24 0

— paniculata ... 18 0-30 0
Kentia Belmore-

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0

— Forsteriana,

per dozen _ ... 12 0-21 0
Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 12 0-18 0

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices (CoiUdj

s.d. s.d.

Lilium longiflorum

per dozen
— lancif olium,

per dozen
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen

Lobelia

Marguerites, white,

per dozen

— yellow

Mignonette, p. doz. 4 0-60
Musk, Harrison's,

perdoz.
Pelargoniums
(Zonals), per
dozen

— Ivy-leav'd,p.dz,

15 0-24 0
18 0-24 0

18 O-30 0
4 0-50

6 0-12 0
15 0-18 0

3 0-50

3 0-50

5 0-80

s.d. s.d.

8 0-12 0
5 0-60

1 6-
3 0-

2 6
5 0

Pelargoniums,

show

Petunias, double,

per doz.
— single (in 60's

only)

Rhodanthe, per dz
Rhododend rons,

per doz.
Roses, per dozen... 12 0-18 0
Saxifraga pyrami-

dalis, per doz. 12 0-18 0
Selaginella, dozen 4 0-60
Spiraea japonica,

per dozen
Verbena, MissWill-

mott, per doz,

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

18 0-30 0

5 0-10 0
8 0-12 0

Apples:— South
Australian :

— Adams' Pear-
main, per case 10 6-11 0

— Jonathans, per

case 13 0-16 0

— Monro's Fav-
ourite, per case 12 6-13 0

— New York
Pippins, p. case 12 0-13 6

— Rymers, per

case 10 0-11 0

— Wellingtons, p.

case 12 0-14 6

Tasmanian
per case :

— Alexanders ..

— Sturuiers

— French Crabs,

— Alfristons

— Sc. Pearmains 10 6-12 6

— Prince Alfreds 11 0 —

— N.Y. Pippins.. 12 0-13 0

— Roman Beauty 10 0-12 0
Apricots (French),

per box
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extraquality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jamaica

— Loose, per dz
Cherries (French),

i sieve

* sieve

— boxes

— French, squares 2 0-26

— English,^ sieve 5 0-60
Figs, per dozen ... 2 0-60
Grapes (English),

Black Hambro,

per lb 16-30

— English, Mus-
cat, per lb, ... 16-40

Gooseberries (Eng-
lish), * sieve ... 3 0-46
Lemons :

— Messina, case 13 6-20 0

— Naples, p. case 30 0-40 0
Lychees. perbox... 0 10- 1 0

9 6-10 0

10 6-12 0

, 9 6-10 6

9 0-10 0

0 7-10

7 0-90
6 0-70

8 6-10 0

11 0-13 0

4 6-60
0 &- 1 3

86-4 0

5 0-96
10-20

s.d. s.d.
10-20

Melons, each

Nectarines, English 4 0-18 0

Nuts, Cobnuts, per

doz. lb 8 0 —

— Brazils, new,

per cwt, ... 45 0-48 0

— Spanish, p. bag 42 0-43 0

— Barcelona, per

bag 24 6 —

— Monkey Nuts,

per bag ... IS 0 —

— Walnuts, dried,

cwt. ... ... 35 0 —

—Chestnuts, Italian,

per bag ... 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case ... 20 0-32 0

— IMurcia ... 10 0-16 0

— Navel 11 0-12 6

— Jamaica ... 10 6-11 0

— Blood 9 6-11 6

Peaches (English),

per dozen ... 4 0-18 0
Pears, stewing
varieties, per ^
bushel 2 6-30

— stewing, crate 10 6 —
Tasmanian and
Austral ian

Pears, p. tray ;

— Winter Nelis .. 4 0-10 0

— Glou Morceau 7 0-90

— Vicar of Wake-
field 5 0-80

— Bergamotte ... 2 6 —

— Beurr^ Diel ... 2 0-40

— Easter Beurre 6 0 —
Pineapples, each... 2 9-46
Plums (Cape), per

box 10 0 —

— French, p. box 0 6-09
Raspberries, per

putt 2 0 —

Strawberries, p. lb. 2 0-30

— Second quality 0 6-13

— French, crates

(4 baskets) ... 7 6-10 0

— French, crates

(10 baskets) ... 8 0-10 0
■ — Southampton,

per basket .. 2 0-36

Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

10-26
0 4 —

36

2 0- ;

1 0 -

0 8 —
2 6-36

4 0

Artichokes, Green

French, p. doz. 10-36
Asparagus, per

bundle : —

— English, per
bundle

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, perpkt. 0 6

— Broad (Eng-
lish), per bush.

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, bos

— Home grown,
per lb

— French, p. pad

— French, per J
sieve

— Channel Island
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, sprout-
ing, per bushel

— per doz.
Cabbages, Spring,

per bag

— red, per bushel
Carrots, French pad 3 0

— per bag, un-
washed

— per dz. bnchs.,
washed

— new, per dozen
bunches

Cauliflowers, per
tally

Chow Chow, per
dozen

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen 0 10- 1 3

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles ... 20 0-21 0

Leeks. 12 bundles 16-30

Lettuces, Cos, per

dozen 2 0 —

— French, per

dozen 0 11- 1 0

2 6-
0 8
10 —

16-19
10-20

2 6 —
16-20

2 0-30
1 6 —

5 0 —

3 0-10 0

16-20
2 0-26

. s.d.

s.d.
6 0
2 0-30

0 6-0 10
0 6-0 10

4 6 —

3 6-
2 3

1 0-
1 0-

40

1 6
1 6

Marrows, per doz.

.Vlint, per dozen ...

Mushrooms(house)

per lb

— Buttons, per lb.
Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun. 10-16
Onions (Egyptian),
bag

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, A bag..

— Spring, dozen
bunches

Parslev, i2bunches

Peas (French flats) 3 0-60

— English, per
bushel

^ C h a n n el I s-
lands, per lb....
Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt.... 13 0-15 0

— Channel Island
Kidneys ... 0 2^- 0 3

— Jersey, cwt. ... 7 0 -^

— St. Malo, cwt. 6 6 —

— Lisbons.p.case 2 9 —
Rhubarb, per doz.

bundles
Spring greens, per

bushel

Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Tomatos : —

— English, perlb.

— per doz. lbs. ...

— small selected

— Seconds, per
12 lbs

Turnips, per doz.
bunches

60 _
0 6-08

26 —
13 —

4 0 —

5 0-60
4 6-50
4 0-46

3 0 —

— new, per dozen

bunches
Turnip Tops, bush.
Watercress, per
doz. bunches ..

10-16
10 —

4 0
1 6

0 4

Remarks. — Denia and Valencia Oranges are now practi-
cally finished, there being scarcely any on the market. The
bulk of the Oranges obtainable come from Murcia. Lemons
are much dearer, realising 5s. to 7s. a case more than last
week. English Gooseberries are now coming in much

larger quantities, and prices are lower in consequence,
bome English Cherries were on the market during the
week, but they were very small fruits. E. H. Rides, tovciU
Garden, June 20,

Potatos.
Lincolns, 50s. to 60s. ; Dunbars, 100s. ; best Scotch, 75s. to
80s. ; Jerseys, 7s. to 7s. 6d. ; St. Malo, 6s. 6d. to 7s. ; Cher-
bourgs, 6s. to 6s. 6d. ; Lisbons, 3s. per case.— John Bath, 3Z
and 34, Wellington Street, Covmt Garden.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

Large supplies of bedding plants are still seen, but trade
m them is still falling off. It does not seem likely that
growers will clear their stocks readily this season. This
rnorning many were complaining of dull trade, and at closing
time much material remained misold. Rambler Roses are
now plentiful, but they vary considerably in quality. I
noticed well-flowered plants of Dorothy Perkins, in 48 pots,
\vere making 4s. each. The crimson varieties in larger
plants have also sold well, but it is impossible to quote
prices, for they vary greatly, and the demand fluctuates
from day to day. Lilium longiflorum in pots is over plen-
tiful. Tall plants of L. lancifoliuin album and roseum are
seen. Ericas are still available, including ventricosa mag-
nifica in well-flowered plants, andE. Bothwelliana. Boronia
elatior will soon be over. Well-flowered plants of Vel!6w
Marguerites are more plentiful. The white variety can be
had in all sizes. Bouvardias are already seen in the market.
I noticed the varieties President Cleveland, Priory Beauty,
and Jasminoides this morning. Handsomely-coloured plants
of Coleus are numerous. Chrysanthemum segetum is over-
plentiful, and prices are lower. Crassulas are also abcnd-
ant ; some fine plants, in 32 pots, realised as much as 24s. per
dozen. Hydrangeas are plentiful and of good quality, espe-
cially hortensia. Plants of H. paniculata vary in quality;
some are very good. Spiraeas have little demand. Good
plants of Verbena Miss Willmott are difficult to procure,
and the purple and scarlet kinds are not over abundant.
Best Mignonette is also rather scarce. Zonal Pelargoniums
are over-abundant and lower in prices. Ivy-!eaved sorts do
not vary much. Show varieties are over-plentiful. Saxi-
fraga pyramidalis is still good, but supplies will not last much
longer. Large plants of .\cer Negundo variegatum are seen,
but they appear to have bttle demand. Some growers have
nearly hnishpd marketing spring flowering plants, and Ferns
are becoming more prominent.

Cut Flowers.
Supplies all round are very abundant. Hardy flowers
arrive in large vanloads. Pyrethrums, both single and
double, of the very best varieties are seen in great heaps.
P^eoniesare not c]Xi\iQ so abundant. Irises from English
growers are now ot very good quality ; supplies of Spanish
varieties are excessive, and there are some very fine varieties
of the Engligh type. Poppies include the Iceland, Shirley,
and Oriental varieties. Sweet Peas are very plentiful, and the
quality of the flowers varies. Yellow Carnations are more
plentiful. Malmaisons vary in quality, the best sell readily,
but there is a poor demand for flowers of second quality.
Many of the American varieties are left unsold at
closing time. Lilium longiflorum, which advanced a little
in price at the end of last week, was plentiful again
this morning. Statice can be had in blue, white, and
yellow shades. Gypsophila elegans is seen in large
heaps. Coreopsis grandiflora is pretty. Gladiolus The Bride,
and the pink varieties in several shades are plentiful. Corn-
flowers (Centaurea cyanus) are seen in several shades of
colour ; the pink and deep blue are greatly appreciated.
Roses continue over plentiful; even the best do not clear out
well. Flowers of General Jacqueminot from the open
ground are rather small, and show signs of having suffered
from the late frosts. Stephanotis, Tuberoses and Gar-
denias are all plentiful. Eucharis are rather scarce. Hardy
foliage is better developed. Asparagus, Smilax, Adiantum
and other foliage are all abundant. A. H., Covejit Garden
Market, Wednesday, June ^0, 1906.

TRADE NOTHCE;

John Lytle & Sons, Limited. — This company has been
registered by George O. Lytle, 19, Eustace Street, Dublin,
Capital ;f,"50.000, in /I shares, to acquire the stock-in-trade,
&c., of John Lytle & Sons, of 34, Victoria Street, Belfast,
and to carry on the business of seed merchants and cleaners,
nurserymen, produce merchants, manure merchants, &c.
Registered ofi&ce, 34, Victoria Street, Belfast.

GARDENERS' DEBATING SOCIETIES.

EGHAM AND DISTRICT GARDENERS* MU-
TUAL- IMPROVEMENT,— At the last meeting of this
society, Mr. A. Sturt in tlie chair, Mr, Peerless, of The
Gardens, Glenwood, Virginia Water, read a paper, entitled
*' Provident Gardeners." In the course of his remarks, the
essayist pointed out the great advantages of belonging to
such societies as the United Horticultural Benefit and Provi-
dent, the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund, and the Gardeners*
Royal Benevolent Institution. A discussion followed on the
advantages offered by theseand other societies. The exhibits
included an excellent group of Gloxinias, from the President
(Gardener, Mr. Lingwoodj, Lobelia, Carter's Double Blue,
from Mrs. Worsfold, and a vase of Rosa camellias folia from
Mr, G. Baskets T. J. W.

ENQUIRIES AND REPLIES.

Steam Motor Lawn-Mowing Machines.—
I should be pleased to read remarks from anyone
having had experience with the different machines
that are now in use about the country. We have
had two of the Lancashire made machines in use
for some years and find the greatest difficulty with
them, the burners bursting sometimes even in a
day or two after being put in new ; at other times
they will last for a week or two or longer. I think
that if we could get a perfect burner, or one that
would last a reasonable time, the Motor mower

416

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 23, 1906.

mould be of great service where there is a lot of
lawn to be cut ; as it is, the annoyance and expense
of the burners are enough to make one feel that
they are anything but a saving of time and labour
on the pony machine. Any hints as to the best of
the many different machines made, and how the
burners can be best managed, would be most wel-
come. J. T.

LlLIUM SUTCHUANENSE. — Will " A. O. " Or
some other correspondent indicate the difference
between this species and L. Ma.\imowiczh to which
it is apparently very closely related ? G . [] udging
from the figures, the leaves of Sutchuanense are
more densely crcwied and spirally arranged
instead of being loose and alternate as in L.
Maximowiczii. There may be differences in the
bulbs and mode of growth. Perhaps "A. O." or
some other cultivator will kindly give our readers
the benefit of their experience. Ed.]

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Agricultural Holdings Act: Nursciyiudii. Our
correspondent has in his mind the Agricultural
Holdings Act of 1900, which amended the Act
of 1883, and which applies to land wholly or
partly cultivated as a market garden. The Act
was not expressly stated to apply to nurseries,
but it dealt with the protection of young fruit
trees, the planting of orchards or fruit bushes,
&c. Furthermore, recent cases in the Law
Courts go to support the view that in many
instances nurserymen are entitled to rank as
"market gardeners" for the purposes of the
Act. Lix.
Beetle : A. D. &■ Sons. The insect is a specimen
of the Garden Chafer or June bug (Phyllo-
pertha horticola), a well-known pest both in the
beetle and in the grub stages. The perfect
insects can be trapped by shaking them from
the trees into a sheet, or into an open umbrella.
This should be done in cold, damp weather,
when the insects are in a torpid condition ; on
a fine, warm day they will fly away when dis-
turbed, The grubs live on the roots of various
plants, and are at times very destructive to
grass. Watering with one part of gas liquor to
mne parts of water will destroy the grubs.
Carnations : W. D. We have not discovered
any positive signs of disease, but the plant is
exceedingly weak, and you will do well to obtain
fresh stock for propagating purposes.
Clover in Lawn : C. E. M. You had better
encourage the grasses to grow with unusual
vigour, that they may smother or crowd out the
Clover. Sulphate of ammonia and nitrate of
soda are chemical manures that have a very
stimulating effect on grasses, but their action on
Clovers is of a contrary character. Several
dressings with either of these manures or with
a mixture of both may be made during summer,
making an application of about 1 lb. of manure
to each rod of land. If you apply more than
this at one time, the manure will have the effect
of disfiguring the lawn by causing the growth
of the grasses to become brown. When you
have got rid of the Clover, or early next spring,
afford a liberal top-dressing with rich soil, or
the grasses will become impoverished by the
extra stimulation to which they have been
subjected.
Figs ; G. H. and W. P. Both samples have the
appearance of being attacked with the fungus
Cercospora BoUeana. Remove all leaves that
are found to be disfigured and burn them, also
any of the " fruits " which may fall or are about
to fall. Fig trees require much moisture and
rather free ventilation when cultivated under
glass. Syringe the trees vigorously every morn-
ing and afternoon when the weather is bright,
and leave a little top ventilation qpen all night,
even though you may need to use more fire
heat in consequence.
Grafting Apples on Willows and Horn-
beams : F. and others. We do not like to say
that any thing is impossible in nature, but for
all practical purposes, at least, the thing is abso-
lutely impossible. Last week we had a Daisy
engrafted (?) on a Buttercup, but a touch sufficed
to ..detach the two, and we had no difficulty
in ''grafting" other specimens. Columella,
Virgil, Pliny, and other ancient writers mention
similar occurrences, but they are all capable
of e.xplanation without atlnbuting them to auy
real process of grafting.

Grape Muscat of Alexandria : N. W. The
leaves have every appearance of being attacked
by the mysterious "browning" disease. You
should have sent the tips of the shoots and the
tendrils, as it is more readily determined from
those parts of the vine. If the tendrils are
brown and tough, it is an almost sure indication
of the disease. About the cause of the com-
plaint little is known — by some authorities it
is attributed to a slime fungus. With regard to
remedial treatment we can only advise the burn-
ing of the affected parts. See that the bordeis
are in an efficient state, when fungus will be less
likely to appear.

Grapes Spotted : W. P. C. The black spots are
probably the deposit of some fly, and are
readily removed by the finger-nail. Discon-
tinue spraying with the liver of sulphur, as the
berries are nearing ripening. You can do
nothing more now.

Incinerated Earth ; B. Puris. We suppose baked
earth is meant, but we will enquire of our colonial
correspondent.

Insects : F. C. L. Swarming with an aphis-like
insect, Chermes. Cut away the affected branches
as far as you can, and use petroleum emulsion
in the form of spray. We fear, however, there
is little chance of saving the larger trees.

Iris : /. T. S. The appearance is due to the
fusion of two flowers into one. Theoretically
the number of parts of the flower should be
doubled, but during the fusing process some of
the parts have been squeezed out of existence,
so that whilst in your flower there are more
parts than in an ordinary flower, there are fewer
than there would be in two. — /. G. See report
of Scientific Committee in our present issue.

Names of Plants /. S. Mespilus germanica.—
F. S. 1, Berberis Wallichiana ; 2, Scilla peru-
viana; 3, Limnanthes Douglasi: — B.C. CD. A
Cistus : we cannot name the species from the
specimen sent.— H. S. 1, Ins sibirica white
variety; 2, Geranium sanguineum ; 3, Veronica
gentianoides ; 4, Sagina procumbens ; 5, Sper-
gula arvensis.— H. S. Cupressus sempervirens.
— R. G. Whitfield. Cornus mas, variegated
form. — D.F. 1, Next week; 2, LiliumMartagon.
— Cymru. 1, Khododendrum ferrugineum ; 2,
Euphorbia Cyparissias ; 8, Veronica teucnurn ;
4, Cerastium tomentosum ; 5, Ajuga reptans ;
6, Iris sibirica ; 7, Hesperis matronalis, white
variety ; 8, Heuchera.— £. S. W. 1, Iris
sibirica; 2, we cannot undertake to name the
Rose; send to a grower. — E. G. Ashe. 1,
Tsuga, perhaps T. canadensis ; 2, a Cedar,
probably the Deodar; 3, Abies concolor ; 4, a
Cedar, whether the Deodar or the Lebanon we
cannot tell from the scrap sent ; 5, Euonymus
japonicus var. radicans ; 6, a species of Andro-
meda ; send when in flower. Another time send
better specimens ; it is very difficult to give a
satisfactory determination of such scraps. —
W. H. C. Poor specimens, dried up. and labels
tied on in the most provoking manner. 1,
Medicago lupulina ; 2, Lotus corniculatus ;
3, Holcus mollis; 4, Achillea Millefolium; 6,
Arrhenatherum avenaceum ; 6, Anthoxantluim
odoratum ; 7, Festucaovina ; 8, Lolium perenne.
— ir. A'. 1, Hyoscyanus niger. Henbane ; 2,
Tussilago alpina, Alpine Coltsfoot ; 3, Alchemilla
vulgaris, Lady's Mantle ; 4, Saxifraga umbrosa,
London Pride. — G. /. //. 1. Nephrolepis
exaltata; 2, Selaginella Wildenovii ; 3, Berberis
vulgaris; 4, Spiraea trilobata. The Pears are
badly affected with the Pear midge. See answer
to J. B., in our last issue. — Salop. Masdevallia
Harryana luteo-oculata, Odontoglossum citros-
mum, Mesembryanthemum (send in flower),
Spiraea trilobata. Why not number the speci-
mens ? — Japonica. 1, Dendrobium ciliatum,
2, Pholidota obovata. — Marigold. 1, Ginkgo
biloba (syn.) Salisburia adiantaefolia ; 2, Hybrid
China Rose ; 3, Koelreuteria paniculata ; 4,
Ranunculus lingua. — ^. W. 1, Piptanthus
nepalensis ; 2, Polemonium coeruleum ; 3,
Mertensia sibirica ; 4, Hesperis matronalis ; 5,
Asphodelineramosa; 6, Ranunculus aconitifolius
flore pleno. — F. R. 1, Tradescantia virginica ;
2, Geranium sanguineum; 3, Justicia carnea of
gardens; 4, Saintpaulia ionantha; 5, Pepero-
miaai-gyraea ; 6, Fittonia Pearcei ; 7, Pellionea
pulchra; 8, Meconopsiscambrica; 9, Verbascum
phceniceuiTi ; 10, Crassula coccinea variety ;
11, Eccremocarpus scaber. — G. C. Strelitzia
reginae. — D. F. 1, Senecio Doronicum. — Dnl-

wich. Escallonia macrantha. Grape next week. — ■
J.R.D. 2, Tradescantia virginica; 1,3,4, 0,(i,
not sent ; 7, Verbascum cupreum ; 8, Eup-
horbia ; 9, Thalictrum aquilegifolium ; 10.
Meconopsis cambrica, double flowered variety ;
11, Geum chilense. — Soarer. Strelitzia reginse.
The hybrids from the Orchid species you men-
tion are known as Cypripedium x Merope.

Nursery Business : G. P. As you have already
some knowledge of the clerical part of the
nursery business, you would find it the less
difficult to learn the details of actual nursery
work, such as propagation, cultivation, iSic, and,
therefore, we do not think it is too late for you
to entertain the idea, if you have satisfied your-
self that there are better openings for the practical
man than for the nursery clerk.

Plum Leaves : J. B. The excrescences are due
to the irritation set up by mites or gall flies.

Roses : Mis. G. Proliferous Roses are very com-
mon. The centre of the flower instead of
ceasing to grow continues to develop and forms
fresh buds. As your plants do so persistently
it will be better to root them up, and get new
ones.

Shothole Fungus : IF. P. You should have
applied the copper spray sooner and more tho-
roughly; as it is you have left patches un-
covered. Prevention is possible, cure very
doubtful.

SoLANUM : Lawrenson. The warty appearance of
the leaves is probably due to the same circurn-
stances that cause the warty condition seen in
Vine leaves, and known as intumescence,
namely, the lack of a proper proportion in ihe
degree of moisture and warmth of the atmos-
phere, and the conditions prevailing at the root.
Free ventilation is the best means to prevent it,
and should you place the plants out of doors for
a period during the summer they would be likely
to lose the symptoms entirely.

Vines : Reader. All you can do beyond applying
the powdered sulphur to the foliage is to sul-
phur the hot-water pipes, as it is termed, which
will have the effect of causing sulphurous fumes
in the house that may kill the mildew already
appearing on the fruit. The mixture for apply-
ing to the pipes is made by mixing flowers of
sulphur in lime-wash, to be applied by means of
a brush. The hot-water pipes must first be
made very hot, as hot as is possible without
causing the atmospheric temperature of the
house to rise above 80°. Make the application
in the evening after the sun's rays have passed
off the house. When the house has been shut
up, and the atmospheric temperature kept
to about 80" for two hours following the opera-
tion, let a little ventilation be given, but only a
little or the sudden change may cause a check
to the vines. Soon after applying the mixture
to the pipes, take means to check the fires, in
order that it will not be imperative to keep the
house dangerously hot all night. The treatment
may be repeated for several nights in succession,
and if care be taken no damage will be caused
to the vines, but it is necessary to state that the
operation is one that should only be entrusted
to careful and responsible men.

Privet: W . R. We do not find any trace of
fungus disease, and are not disposed to attribute
the failure to the influence of the stable manure.
A much more likely cause is that of deep plant-
ing. There is considerable physiological differ-
ence between the covering of the stem below the
ground and of the bark above ground. When a
bark-covered stem is inserted deeply below the
surface of the ground, one of two things mu3i
happen. Either the bark must adapt itself
quickly to the new conditions, and the stem
become capable of producing roots, or failing
this decay will commence and the plant
eventually die. Privet (Ligustrum) is a quick
rooting plant, and if our assumption is correct,
those specimens you describe as commencing to
grow again from the base have, in the time
which has elapsed, adapted themselves to the
new environment. The rest have perished.

Communications Received. — Heston Library — Stansfickl
Brothers-Sir J. D. G.— T. S. Newry-E. H. W.-A. G.—

E. H. W.— D. P.— VV. W.— J. T. R.— M. V.-C. S.— W. G,
S.— de B. C— W. I. T., Jamaica— W. H.— H. F. McM.—

F. C.-G. C— Anxious— J. J. W.-F. W. T.— W. S. K.-
S. A.-H. VV.— J. C.-D. F.— A. G. S.

June 30, 1906.J

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

417

THE

^arbencrs'Cbionicle

No. U018.—SATURDA\\ June 30, 1906.

CONTENTS.

Books, notices of—

Kew Bulletla 423

My Garden 418

Brasso-Cattleya " Mrs.
Francis Wellesley " 422

•Cambridge Botanic Gar-
dens 423

Carnations, the Ameri-
can system of grow-
ing 417

Celsia cretica 423

Chinese note book,
leaves from my ... 419

Country-in-Town Exhi-
bition, a 423

Flowers in season ... 422

Iris Sprengeri 423

Kew notes ... 420, 423

Nursery employees'out-
ing 423

Obituary —

Mad. Auguste van
Geert 427

Odontoglossum crispum,
an abnormal flower of 423

Potato disease, the ... 422

Rose show, arrangements

for the great Summer 423
Rosmarinus officinalis

prostratus

Saccolabium bellinum...
Societies —

Manchester and North
of England Orchid

Richmond Horticul-
tural

Royal Horticultural ...
Vegetables —

Broccoli and Cauli-
flowers

Viburnum rhytido-

phyllum

Week's work, the—

Flower garden, the ...

Fruits under glass ...

Hardy fruit garden ...

Kitchen garden, the ...

Orchid houses, the ...

Plants under glass ...
Wye Agricultural Col-
lege

423
419

426

426
424

420

418

421
421
420
421
420
421

422

ILLUSTRATIONS.

Brasso-Cattleya "Mrs. Francis Wellesley" (Supple-
mentary Illustration)

Roses, a table decorated with 424

Saccolabium bellinum 419

Viburnum rhytidophyllum 418

THE AMERICAN SYSTEM OF
GROWING CARNATIONS.

IT is necessary to commence at the begin-
ning, namely, with wh£ft is l<no\vn to us
as the cutting bench ; but, before I pro-
ceed, I would like to say to those who are
ready to despise anything that is new, that
the Old Country is years behind America and
Canada, not only in the culture of Carna-
tions, but in that of Roses also, and it is high
time to discard the layer and pot system for a
more profitable one. I am glad to know that
one firm of Carnation growers in Britain, at
least, has adopted the American plan with
success. The two most important contribu-
tions towards success are the obtaining of a
proper cutting-bench and of healthy stock to
propagate from. When possible, I would ad-
vise that the cutting-bench be on the north
side of the house, because it can be kept
cooler and more easily shaded than other
benches. The bench must be enclosed,
and provided with sufficient water pipes
to maintain a temperature of from 58° to
60° in the sand, and an atmospheric tem-
perature of 50" to 52°. Good silver or other
sharp, clean sand should be placed to a depth
of about 4 inches on the bench. Make it
thoroughly wet, and firmly ram it down by
means of a brick or other implement. For
shading the cuttings I employ calico, the top
piece being of the same width as the bench,
with side pieces hanging down on either side
suspended to wires by rings so that they can

be drawn at night. There should be a space
of at least 4 feet between the bench and the
top curtain, for it is essential to have that
much air to keep the cuttings healthy, but no
draught must be permitted.

When the cutting bench is ready, and the
shades made, the cuttings may be selected.
It is well to bear in mind that between the
eaily-blooming kinds there is some three
months' diflerence in the period of flower-
ing ; therefore, in order to be able to cut
fiom late-blooming varieties earlier, it will
be necessary to commence taking cuttings
the last week in October, and so on
until you have the needed supply. The
early and constant-blooming varieties may be
propagated in November, December, Janu-
ary, and February with good results. Dur-
ing these four months cuttings make roots
more easily, for the reason that the old plants
are more vigorous, not having been forced,
and the temperature is more easily kept low.
In selecting cuttings, I would advise taking
them from flowering stems, unless it is de-
sired to propagate as many as possible, when
all shoots m£.y be taken. There may be from
one to four cuttings on a stem ; the upper
one will be too weak — leave it ; the lower one
may be too hard, and, if so, lea^^e it also;
the middle ones are usually just right, there-
fore, with the thumb and index finger, take
them out sideways. I never use the knife on
a cutting, for the reason that a cutting taken
out sideways has not been wounded, and is
the better fortified against the attack of
disease by having left on it the tough leaves
at the base, and, further, such a cutting
has one or more well-defined joints already
f .'rmed, and will be from three to four weeks
in advance of a pulled flowering cutting.
When the quantity of cuttings has been
g;ithered, and the sand in bench is well wet
through, insert the cuttings at half-inch dis-
tances, three-quarters of an inch deep, in
rows made two inches apart, making the sand
firm on either side of the cuttings ; after this
has been done, water again to settle the sand
about the cuttings. Spray the cuttings each
day, keeping close watch that they are not
too wet, also that they do not get dry along
the sides of bench. There is this difference
between watering and spraying : we water to
wet the ground, we spray to close the mouths
of the leaves, and stop exhalation. The
water that the roots absorb remains in the
plant or cutting, and a perfect equilibrium is
maintained, there being no difference between
the amount of absorption and that of ex-
halation ; the leaves of the plant do not
absorb water. If the above plan of operat-
ing the cutting bench is strictly adhered to,
I find it possible to root 95 per cent., and
have rooted 200,000 cuttings this season.
Should the sand in the cutting-bench become
green and sour, there is danger of the cut-
tings damping off by what is known as the
fungus of the cutting-bench. Some advise
sprinkling the sand with a solution of sul-
phate of copper and ammonia, but if you re-
new the sand after rooting two batches in it
there will be no trouble. This is the safest
and best way. Before leaving the propagat-
ing bench I want to impress the reader with
the importance of rooting the cuttings in as
low a temperature as I have advised, for I
believe more injury is done Carnations from
rooting them in a high temperature than from

any other cause ; the average time needed for
rooting is 28 days. Some varieties require a
little longer, and some a little shorter time.
After being rooted, a temperature as low as
55" by day and 50" at night is best. By treat-
ing them in this cool manner the plants will
be likely to remain free from disease ; there-
fore, I believe in rooting them cool and in
growing them on cool until planting.

When they are rooted and ready for plant-
ing, let the soil to be used consist of five
parts loam, one part well-rotted cow manure,
and one part sand. Whether pots, boxes, or
the bench is used to plant them in, do not
plant deeper than they were in the sand, and,
when planting in the field, do not plant deeper
than they were in the house. Again, when
benching them in August or September in the
house, do not plant deeper than they were in
the field, for the reason that the stem above
and below ground is as different as the in-
side and outside of one's cheek. As we are
guarding the plants against stem-rot, we
must not deviate from this rule of planting,
for, should the plants be set deeper in the
house than in the field, the soil old, the
manure spongy, and possibly a dark spell of
weather and too much water at the base of the
plant, stem-rot will prevail to a greater or less
extent. When the Carnations are ready for
planting in the field, the ground should be so
mellow that orrly the hands are needed in
planting, but if too hard or lumpy use a
trowel ; by so doing, if the ground on the top
is dry, it is quickly removed, and a hole for the
plant made in fresh soil. Be careful to cover
the roots with some of the damp soil. If the
work is well done, not a plant should die. Stir
the surface of the ground frequently with a
hoe, and pinch the shoots so as not to allow
any buds to form. By the third week in July
most of the plants should be well furnished,
and may be let alone until lifting. In lifting be
careful to save all the roots possible, for the
reason that, if some are injured or broken,
nature will just as surely sacrifice a propor-
tionate part of its leaves to maintain a
balance.

Planting as early as July is advocated by
some of our leading growers, some giving
as their reason that the plants become better
established, and others giving no reason, but
merely claiming that it is advisable. I advo-
cate early planting for some varieties, such as
White, Pink, and Red Lawson, Lady Boun-
tiful, Governor Roosevelt, Enchantress, Gla-
cier, Queen Louise, Golden Beauty, Estelle,
and White Cloud. Other varieties, like Fl.-i-
mingo, Mrs. Patten, Guardian Angel, Morn-
ing Glory, Boston Market, Nelson Fisher,
Prosperity, Harlowarden, Mrs. Crane, will do
better if planted a month later. Of course,
the cultivator must use his own discretion. If
the plants have done well, and are well fur-
nished with growths, it is desirable to plant
early, as they get better established before
commencing to bloom, and there is danger
in leaving them out late, as wet weather may
set in, and the plants will then make soft
growth, and be more liable to be attacked by
the rust fungus. Set the plants eight to ten
inches distant from each other each way in
the bench, and keep the atmosphere close and
the plants shaded for a few days, until root
action has commenced. Afterwards afford
plenty of air, keeping the glass quite clean, in
order that all the sun and light possible may
reach the plants. Keep an atmospheric
temperature of 55° to 60°.

Various kinds of benches are in use, but I
believe an ordinary wooden bench made 6

418

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 30, 1906.

inches desp will prove to be the most useful in
England. It should be well liniewashed before
using. For supporting the plants it is best to
run three or four tiers of wire in between the
plants the full length of the bench, tying thin
twine across in between the plants, so that
each plant being separate, the air can get in
between them. No tying of the plants is
necessary ; keep the soil stirred on the top by
a small rake to prevent the growth of moss.
Keep the plants well disbudded, and you will
obtain a continuance of bloom from Septem-
ber until the following July. The soil used
may be the same as that recommended for
young stock, except that a little bone meal
may be added.

Young men — you who are working and edu-
cating yourselves in this great work — it is in
your interest that my thoughts have been
directed, and I .'■hail be glad to answer any
questions and freely impart my knowledge
either as to sorts to grow or how they can be
best managed. We have varieties measur-
ing 45 inches across, with a good stiff stem iS
inches long, and everyone must admit who
sees them growing here that " Malmaisons "
cannot touch them. Walter E. Calvert,
Brampion, Ontario, Canada.

VIBURNUM RHYTIDOPHYLLUM.

Our artist suggests that this name was given
after dinner, but as wrinkles (lutis Gr.) disappear at
these functions, we content ourselves with saying
that the name applies to the coarsely wrinkled
ioliage, though the very similar Greek word
(niton), in the sense of a cup, which cannot be
placed on the table until it has been emptied,
lends support to our artist's suggestion! In the
very remarkable Hortus Vcilcltii, published by
Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, the following
description is given: — "Avery striking shrub of
an unusually promising nature, with large,
broadly lanceolate leaves, strongly nerved on the
upper surface, covered beneath with dense woolly
tomentum. The branches terminate in corymbs of
yellowish white flowers (the corymbs) 7 to 8 inches
across. Plants raised at Combe Wood, from seed
collected in China, have proved perfectly hardy."

In the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society,
vol. xxviii., p. 63, Mr. James H. Veitch also
alludes to this species and gives an illustration,
fig. 23. Our own representation, fig. 167, shows
how greatly the plant has improved under culti-
vation. The plant was introduced to theVeitchian
nurseries by Mr. E. H. Wilson, and is certain to
be appreciated by lovers of ornamental shrubs.

NOTICES OF BOOKS.

My Garden. By Eden Phillpotts, Country Life
Office.
We must own to feeling a little preliminary
prejudice when we were called on to express
our opinion on another gardening book. When
the number of such publications is remem-
bered, such a feeling may be excused. From
the time when the late H. A. Bright wrote in
these columns his " Year in a Lancashire Gar-
den " till the present time we have been
swamped with similar productions, compara-
tively few of which have equalled their pro-
totype. Parsons, poets, novelists, ladies, and
people with nothing particular to do have all
entered the lists. Some of their lucubrations
would have found a " cenotaph " in the waste-
paper basket but that that basket is by no
means an "empty tomb." Some are placed on
the topmost shelves to repose in undis-
t-jrhed dust. Some are placed within easy
reach for reference or Tefreshment of spirit.
no>v many of these books will survive even a

decennium we cannot tell, but it is pretty cer-
tain that most of them will have sunk into
oblivion before that period is reached. Among
novelists' productions, Mr. Rider Haggard's
.4 Gardener's Year occupies a high position
as a garden-book proper, and we shall
long treasure the memory of R. D. Black-
more as an authority on Pomology. In
which category are we to place Mr. Eden
Phillpotts' new book? That is a question
which will be better answered a few years hence.

the same light? We demur to the statement on
well-nigh the last page that gardening is not an
intellectual pursuit, but assuredly that is the
fault of the pursuer, not of the object of his at-
tentions. We ought in fairness to add that the
author immediately qualifie:; what he had said
in a previous line by saying that it can be con-
ducted in a very intelligent manner, as, indeed,
it frequently is. We are not without Japanese
catalogues, as the author says he is, but it is
not unlikely this assertion will ensure his re-

•-6y(x^ci)krro-i ■■4^

Fig. 167. — VIBURNUM rhytidophyllum, flowers yellowish-white.

on the principle that it is safer to defer pro-
phecy till its fulfilment is at least in sight. All
that we can say at present is that the reader will
find its light, graceful, withal discursive style
attractive and suggestive, which is just what a
garden should itself be. The author admits
that he knows but little concerning horticul-
ture, but the book itself shows that he knows
more than he says — else why did he write it?
We cannot always see eye to eye with him.
When did reviewer and reviewed see things in

ception of some. We dislike the formal garden
(he so much admires) when it is out of place
and incongruous as much as we like it when
it is in harmony with the surroundings.
Neither do we share the author's dislike
for butterflies, though we admit we don't
like the caterpillars in the vegetable quarters.
We can sympathise with the author's scepti-
cism about the Cucumbers, for once upon a
time, now long ago, we were the victims of a
hoax. Photographs may, or may not, be true

June 30, 1906.1

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

419

representations of facts. In the case we speak
of th-ey were made to participate in a fraud,
for, as we learnt afterwards, some of the fruits
had been tied on to increase the apparent har-
vest before submission to the veracious
camera. Whils-t the professional gardener will
find a ftAr hints in the book, as every observant
gardener does, or should do on all occasions,
the novice and the amateur will find more, and
conveyed, as we have already said, in most
agreeable fashion.

That the writer is not a professional horti-
culturist is evident from his allusions to " Pro-
fessor " Nicholson, and from his complete dis-

liints are given, which will be serviceable to
cultivators of these lovely flowers. That he
sometimes talks around his plants rather
than of them is no defect in such a work as
this. It makes pleasant reading, and, if fur-
ther information be wanted, the author tells
where it is to be obtained. We feel that we,
too, have been writing round rather than of
this book. We plead guilty. We have been
led away by the author himself. We will strive
to make amends by advising all who delight in
plants, and who like to hear about them, to
make themselves the possessors of this fasci-
nating book.

Fig. i6S.— s.\ccol.\bium BELLiN't-Nr, colour of flowers purple, yellow and white.

in 1873, and is the finest of its section, which
includes S. calceolare and a few other smaller
species. Saccolabium bellinum does not require
a stove. It thrives well in an intermediate or
Cattleya-house.

regard of the usage which ordains the use of
capital letters in some plant names and forbids
their employment in others. But these are
mysteries in any case, not unfrequently even to
■experts, and there are so many anomalies that
it becomes not those who live in glass-houses
■to cast stones in the direction of other people's
tenements. Besides, these trivialities (did not
Linnaeus himself call them " nomina trivia-
lia"?) do not interfere in any way with our
enjoyment of the author's descriptions of his
rockeries and their tenants. Irises are special
favourites with him, and some good cultural

SACCOLABIUM BELLINUM.

The beiuly of the specimen of Saccolabium
bellinum which recently flowered in the Royal
Botanic Gardens, Kew, and of which we give an
illustration (fig. 168). suggests that it is a plant
which ought to be more frequently represented in
collections. It is of dwarf, compact habit, and
produces flowers of good size and great beauty.
The sepals and petals are yellow, blotched with
chocolate purple. The singularly-formed pilose
labellum is white with an orange-yellow coloured
disc and some purple spotting.

The species wns discovered by Boxall in Rin-mah

LEAVES FROM MY CHINESE
NOTE-BOOK.

Vegetation of Sungpan a^jd the Kungala

Pass.

(Concluded from page M3.)

Other herbs in flower were species of Caltha,
Tarnassia, Corydalis, Erigeron, Swertia, Pedi-
cularis. Ranunculus, Allium, Aster, Bupleu-
rum, Veronica, Astragalus, Adenophora, Sedum,
and Saussurea, with Vicia cracca, Epilobium
augustifolium, Hieracium umbsllatum, Pole-
monium coeruleum, Taraxacum cfiicinale, Car-
duus crispus. Polygonum aviculare, and various
Composites and Labiates. In ripe fruit I
gathered Primula tangutica. Compared with
the Alpine meadows around Tatien-lu the
wealth in species was limited, but in mere
numbers and intensity of'* colour the flora of
the Kungala Pass was not one whit less rich
and fascinating.

The Meconopsis.

At 11,500 feet, amongst scrub and long grass,
I stumbled on the first plants of Meconopsis
integrifolia, and immediately afterwards Meco-
nopsis punicea. As if to assure me of its
identity, a couple of plants of this latter species
were found in flower. Now, since I had
travelled nearly 600 miles in search of Meco-
nopsis punicea, guided solely by the following
scrap of information,, culled from a label on a
specimen of this plant preserved in the Kew
Herbarium : " Potanin, China borealis, Prov.
.Szechuan septentrionale, '85," I will leave it to
the reader to imagine and appreciate my in-
tense delight. From 12,000 feet to the head
of the pass (12,-JOO feet) Meconopsis punicea
was fairly abundant. The capsules were just
ripe, and a rich harvest of seed rewarded the
day's labour.

fM, integrifolia was figured in our columns in
Oct. 1, 1904, and M. punicea in Oct. 22, 1904.]

It was 6.10 p.m. before I could tear myself
away from this pleasant region. A full moon
lent her aid, and at 9.50 p.m. we reached out
lodgings at Pei-mu Chiao, tired out but satis-
fied. Thus ended my trip to the Kungula Pass
and the quest of the scarlet Meconopsis.
Conclusion. '.

As the title of these articles indicates, nothing
like finality was intended, nor has any been at-
tempted. The flora of China, like the country
itself, is immense. In ornamental trees, shrubs,
and herbs, suitable for outdoor cultivation in
the British Isles, China is the richest country
in the world. Our indebtedness to China may
in a measure be realised if an imaginary at-
tempt be made to expunge from our gardens all
the plants she has given us.

There are many Chinese plants in cultivation
in this country that the lay mind wots not of,
but not for one moment must it be supposed
that the " Flowery Land " is in any sense
exhausted of her treasures. To the recently-
completed Index Florae Sinensis, Sir William
T. Thiselton-Dyer contributes a historical note,
from which I extract the following : " The pre-
sent enumeration contains 8,271 (species), of
which 4,230 are endemic, or not known to occur
outside the Chinese Empire. The! most
moderate estimate cannot put the whoie flora
as containing less than 12,000 species." Those
qualified to judge will agree that Sir W'illiam's
estimate is by no means an exaggerated one.
The vast collections made by Dr. Henry have
not yet been fully described. Collectors for
continental herbaria have sent much which re-
m.ains undetermined, and my own collection of
over 5,000 species remains with scarcely a tithe
worked out.

420

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 30, i^Cj.

[Those of the Conifers that are in cultivation
have been described and figured in these
columns from specimens put at our disposal by
Messrs. Veitch, whilst a complete list, together
with the descriptions of several new species not
yet in cultivation, was laid before the Linnean
Society by Dr. Masters recently. In addition
numerous species of Primula and other plants
have been described and figured in these
columns by Mr. Hemsley, Mr. Duthie, and
others.]

In this series of articles, commenced in this
journal over a year ago, I have endeavoured
to give some account of the vegetation as it
came under my observation. I have told of
the sub-tropical nature of the Yangtze-
Valley flora ; of the principal crops ; of the
rich temperate region, with its wonderful
variety of trees and shrubs ; of the uplands,
with their wealth of herbs, and the fascinating
Alpine regions of the Chino-Tibetan border-
land, with its savage untrodden mountain
ranges crowned with perpetual snows. In
short, I have attempted, largely by means of
long lists of what I fear have often been unin-
telligible names, to throw on a screen, as it
were, a few bold outlines, and have left it per-
force to the readers to fill in the necessary
details, and so complete the sketch. E. H.
Wilson.

[The vote of thanks that will be unanimously
awarded to our energetic contributor, hearty as
it now is, will assuredly gain in intensity as
time in its course enables us to appreciate the
amount of indebtedness that gardeners and
botanists owe to the ability of Mr. Wilson and
the enterprise of Messrs. Veitch. — Ed.]

VEGETABLES.

BROCCOLI AND CAULIFLOWERS.
With the many excellent varieties, it is now
an easier matter than formerly to produce a
supply of these vegetables all the year round.
The less easy time is possibly during the
winter months, when the plants develop very
slowly. Veitch's Autumn Giant Cauliflower
last season produced nice " heads " up to
Christmas, but White Cape was in cutting
at the same time, and continued considerably
longer than did Autumn Giant. Immediately
the supply of these was exhausted from a
sowing made on March 20, Veitch's self-
protecting Broccoli was turning in, producing
firm and compact white " heads." This is a
very valuable variety and continues a long time
in use, providing the weather is not too severe.
From plants raised by a successional sowing
made about the middle of April, cutting may be
continued even for some time longer. It is during
February and March that it is sometimes diffi-
cult to obtain this vegetable, for afterwards
■many varieties run the race together. For cut-
ting during February and March it is well to
plant a batch on a somewhat sheltered border.
I have been successful with Main Crop and
Veitch's Fine Spring White. In each case the
foliage completely folds over and protects the
snow-white " heads." Being of a hardy con-
stitution and close in texture, these varieties
are enabled to withstand severe frosts. For sup-
plying late crops of Broccoli I prefer the varie-
ties Model and Late Queen ; these are neither
coarse in texture nor large in size. They furnish
a highly, but not too strongly, flavoured vegetable
which is greatly enjoyed.^ To prolong the season
of these two varieties it has been my practice
for some years to make a later sowing than is
usual-" namely, on or about June 7. From this
sowing I always get small, but excellent, heads,
which continue the supply three weeks longer
than the general sowing would do. These late
plants need to be afforded an exposed, sunny
position and good soil. . During severe winters,
■when other varieties have suffered, these late

plants have remained unhurt. They are planted
15 to 18 inches apart, and a slight dressing of
nitrate of soda is applied between the plants in
the spring months.

A sowing is also made under glass during
January of Veitch's Pearl Cauliflower, the plants
being subsequently pricked iDff into other boxes,
and when ready and the weather favourab'«e
planted out in well-prepared rich ground. This
variety when so treated will frequently produce
firm, pure white heads, at the same time that
late sown plants of Late Queen are in use. W.
H. Clarke, Aston Bowanl Gardens, Oxon.

KEW NOTES.

The Greeniiousk.

A large number of climbers on the roof and
clothing the pillars of this house ar; just now
in flower. Near the centre Lonicera etrusca var.
superba is flowering freely ; the flowers are pale
yellow, with a tinge of purple on the outside,
the flower heads are borne several together on
long twining branches. A fast grower, it is a
splendid plant for furnishing the roofs of large
conservatories, and, moreover, being deciduous,
it does not in winter shade the plants
beneath. L. sempervirens and the variety
minor will be found more useful in houses
of smaller dimensions. The flowers are
bright scarlet outside and yellow inside,
leaves deep green, glaucous beneath. A
North American species, it continues to flower
for several months. The white flowers of Sola-
num jasminoides, mingled with the foliage on
long trailing stems, is worthy of notice. In
favoured districts it will survive the winter out-
side, but at Kew it requires protiction. The
pendent flowers of Fuchsias make them ideal
subjects to train up the roofs of greenhouses.
Besides F. micro i-temma and F. simplicicaulis,
several of the garden varieties are at preset
clothed with .flowers.

The long, slender, tw'ning stems of Trorsejlum
pentaphyllum are clothed with small digitate
leaves and tricoloured flowers, having a purple
calyx, green limb, and vermilion petals. Aspara-
gus retrofractus arboreus is a vigorous and free,
growing plant ; several of the stems are fully
15 feet in length, much branched, and thickly
clothed with bright green fo'iage. Mitraria
coccinea is growing and flowering freely, plantsd
out in a well-drained bed of sandy peat. In thi
centre of the same bed Datura Knightii has
op3ned t'-e f r t of its large co'jb'e whit; flowers.
I'entapterygium serpens is an interesting Hima-
layan shrub The numerous red flowers hang
from the under side of the branches. Strelitzia
Keginae, the Bird of paradise flower, is the most
beautiful species of the genus ; it does better
planted out than in pots. The brilliant orange
and purple-colourel flowers last a long time on
the plants. The pretty little Australian ever-
green twiner, SoUya parviflora (Drummondi),
flowers over a Inng period. It is covered with
small blue flowers, and is also producing seeds
freely. Trained on twiggy sticks, as it was in
Messrs. Clibrans' group at the Temple Show,
it is very pleasing. Jacobinia magnifica var.
carnea makes a very useful plant in a 6-inch pot
grown from cit.'irgs annualy. Coleus shirensis
continues to produce flower spikes, although
they are not quite so numerous and v'gorous as
earlier in the season. The scarlet flowers of
Scutellaria Mociniana helps to add variety to the
house. Strictly speaking, a plant for the inter-
mediate house, at this season it may be trans-
ferred to the cool house when in flower.

Pimelea rosea is just now at its best, at a sea-
son when most of the hard-wooded plants are
over. Grown several plants together in 6-inch
pots Schizanthus rctusus is a mass of rose-col-

oured flowers, with a large yellow blotch on the
middle segment. The annual, Arctotis staechadi-
folia (grandis), also makes a very useful green-
house plant in 5-inch pots. Other hardy and
half-hardy plants at present in flower are Sweet
Peas, Lobelia tenuior, Nicotiana alata (affinis),
and Alonsoa Warscewiczii. Amorphophallus Ri-
vieri is a most useful foliage plant for dotting
amongst flowering plants. The prettily marbled
stem is surmounted with deep green foliage, in
shape not unlike an umbrella. A.O., June i6.

The Week's Work.

THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN.

By W. A. Cook, Gardener to Sir Edmund G. Loder,
Bart., Leonardslee, Susses.

Summer Pruning. — This operation may now
be completed. The upper portion of the trees
having been done some ten days since, the bottom
gro-vvths have developed correspondingly, with
marked success to the fruit. The trees and fruit
gain considerably by having superfluous growths
cut away. The shoots should be taken off with
a sharp knife, about three to five eyes from the
base, taking care to make clean cuts. Apples,
Pears, Plums, and Cherries may all be treated
similarly at the present time with advantage.
There are a few varieties which fruit on the ends
of the shoots, but these have been noted
and should be remembered when pruning is
being done. As soon as the work of pruning
is finished on wall trees, the shoots th; t are leit
for extension or other purposes should at once
be nailed in, or these may get broken, and
therefore a season's growth lo-t. Let a good
watering be given the trees when the^e opera-
tions have been finished, and wash the foliage
well by vigorously syringing the leaves.

Grafts.' — Where these are gro'.'. ing freely, thsi
ties may be loosened. Keep the shoot.T tied to
the rods or stakes, as advised in a former calen.
dar. Remove all root sucliers and shocts that
may grow below the point where the scion has
been inserted as soon as they are seen. If the
roots are at all dry, let a thorough watering be
afforded, and afterwards apply a mulch with
long strawy material. The affording c f water
to trees should not be deferred until it is abso-
lutely a necessity. Each tree should be con-
sidered in respect to its leafage and fruit, soil
and position, and the rainfall. When and how
to water and in what quantities it should be
supplied, are lessons that should be learned
thoroughly. ;

Strawberries should be gathered for preserv-
ing as soon as ripe. Viscountess Hericart de
Thury is still one of the most appreciated varie-
ties for this purpose. Grove End Scarlet is
another variety that finds much favour for jam
making. Let supplies of water be given to late
ripening varieties, in order to induce the plants
to hold out, and the ground should be well
mulched in order to c'leck evaporjtion. Water-
loo, " Givon's Late,'' and Trafalgar are among
the best late varieties.

.ill Small Fruits growing in wsrm and dry
pos tons will need to be afforded witer, and
this should be applied late in the afternoon or
at evening.

THE ORCHID HOUSES.

By W. H.White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart., Burford, Surrey.

Cymbidiums. — Those who possess plants of
the new Cymbidium insigne (Sanderi) should
place them at the warmest end of the Odonto-
glossum house, and keep them well supplied
with water at the root, especially such plants
as are well rooted in small pots. In such a
house the plants grow vigorously, and produce
strong flower-spikes, whereas in the warmer
houses they make large pseudo-bulbs and fine
healthy leaves, but do not bloom so satisfac-
torily." The recently re-introduced C. Huttoni
thrives well in a shady part of the warmest
house. Tl-e compost that appears to suit these
plants best is one of fibrous loam, a little leaf
soil, and chopped sphagnum-moss. If a hand-
ful of finely broken crocks be mixed with it, it
•will be an advantage. When potting there is
no necessity to raise the plants above the rim of
the pot ; if the compost is le'^t half an inch

June 30, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

421

below, there will be space to receive water.
Such species as C. Lowianum, C. Tracyanum,
C eburneum, &c., also the various Cymbidium
hybrids, should be grown in a cool, shady part
of the intermediate house. All require large
supplies of water at the root during the summer
months, and their immediate surroundings
should be kept moist at all times.

Vendrohium Victoria Regma (ccslcstis) is now
flowering in the cool house, and its pretty white
and blue flowers are always much appreciated.
The p^ant grows freely when fastened on to a
teal< raft which has been thinly covered with
sphagnum-moss, the rait being susperided hori-
zontally near to the roof glass on the lightest
side of the house. Water is afforded by lightly
spraying the surface of the moss whenever it b?.
comes dry. Other Dendrobiums of the pedi-
lonum Lection should be treated in a like
manner.

Odontoghsium coronarium. — Recently imported
plants s'lould also be wired on to a teak raft in
the sime way, but when the new breaks com-
mence to root, place the plant in a long, nar-
row teak-wood basket about 4 inches in depth,
cover the bottom bars of the basket with well-
dried pieces of Fern rhizomes, and give the
plant p'enty of well-drained peat and sphagnum.
mo.=s to root into. Suspend the plant well to
the roof of the cool house, and keep the com-
post moist during the whole year round.

Odonloglosium hastilabium is a beautiful
sf>ecies, but now seldom seen in bloom'. The
plant is growing freely, and should be placed
in a cool, shady part of the Caltleya house ; the
few extra degrees of warmth ther? will assist
it to form stout flowering pseudo-bulbs. A good
supply of water is necessary until growth is
completed.

PLANTS UNDER GLASS.

By B' Cromwell, Gardener to T. Sutton Timmis, Esq.,
Cleveley, Alierton, Liverpool.

JLonicera sempervirens. — For training up the
rafters of a cool greenhouse, or covering a sunny
wa'.l in the corridor or conservatory, few plan'.s
are better suited than this lovely North Ameri-
can Honeysuckle. The terminal clusters of
trumpet-shapad flowers which are produced in
spring and on through the summer hang in
great profusion ; the flowers, which are of a
brilliant shade of orange-scarlet, with yellow
interior, contrast well with the leaves. For use
in a cut state for dinner table decoration or
other purposes, the flowers are exceedingly use-
ful. A good potting compost for this plant con-
sists of a mixture of loam, leaf soil^ and soot,
with a liberal addition of coarse sand. The plant
when growing should be supplied with copious
waterings and occasional applications of liquid
manure and soot. Guard against attacks of red
spider by frequently syringing the plants.

The A Hacks o] Red S fider on Foliage Plants. —
Red spider is perhaps the most destructive of all
insect pests which the horticulturist has to
combat. The advent of warm weither is con-
ducive to its propagation, and being so small
and confining its first attacks to the under side
of the leaves, it is not easy of recognition in its
early stages of development, but in a very short
time the foliage att::cked by it assumes a sickly
appearance on the under surface, also the parts
immediately over where the insects are at work.
CodiJEiims (Crotons), Alocasias, Marantas,
Cordylines (Dracsnas) soon fall a prey to this
pest if in a dry atmosphere. Red spider is
capable of destroying the vitality of the leave.?,
checking growth, limiting the action of the
roots, and converting a vigorous plant into a
sickly one. A plant may be unhealthy, but
it will not readily be attacked by the insect
peculiar to it unless an atii osphere is produced
which is favourab'e to that insect. That red
spider thrives in and is encouraged by a dry
atmosphere experience has proved, but with a
plentiful supply of atmospheric moisture, a tem-
perature that is not higher than the plant re-
quires, v, hfther from fire or natural heat, and
thorough ventilation, red spider will not be so
troublesome. Water is the principal agent in
the destruction of red spider, and should be
applied with force to the under side of the
leaves. This is best done in the evening, when
the sun has gone down, bearing in mind that
syringing once or twice is not of any great avail,
but should be followed up systematically until
the plants are quite clean. Sprinkling the paths

and gravel stages with soot water will produce
an atr.osphere in which red spider will xiie y
appear. Do not allow any plant to suffer from
want of water at the roots. Let ihere be free
ventilation, but maintain a humid atmosphere,
and it may be as cool as is consisient with the
healthy development of the particular plants.

FRUITS UNDER GLASS.

By T. W. BiRKlNSHAW, Gardener to Lt.-Col. Sir Chas.
Hanmlton, Bart., Hatley Park, Bedfordshire.

/'/«tj.— Fruits of the early-forced Queens will
now be on the point of ripening. Continue to
allow the plants a steady bottom heat, but an in-
creased volume of air may be admitted to the
structure, and the atmosphere should be kept
less moist than formerly, this latter condition
being necessary in order to obtain good flavour
in the fruits. If it is found that too many fruits
are ripening together, some of the plants may be
retarded by placing them in a cooler at-
mosphere. Later plants that are swelling their
fruits should be liberally fed with liquid manure
and guano water. When the house is closed in
the afternoon the plants will be much benefited
by slightly spraying them with clear water.
During the early part of the day ample ventila-
tion should be given, and if a " notch of air " be
put on in the evening and left on during the
night, it will do the plants good. Keep the plung-
ing material round the pots well moistened. Let
succession plants be brought into the fruiting
house as room is made for them by the removal
of others. They have now advanced in growth,
and should be given a weak stimulant at alter-
nate waterings. Re-pot any plants that require
to be re-potted, before they get root-bound, or
this will cause them to suffer a check. Plants
required for fruiting during the autumn and
winter months should be kept in slightly cooler
and drier conditions. Let the suckers be potted
on as they become ready, and plunge the pots in
a hotbed composed of leaves.

Fruit Trees in Pots. — Peach, Nectarine, Cherry
and Plum trees which have ripened their fruits
may now be afforded an abundance of fresh air
to prepare them for being placed out-of-doors.
It is not wise to put them out too soon, for after
the fruit is gathered, the trees need attention to
the foliage, which should be kept clean so that
each leaf may perform its proper functions. The
trees must not be allowed to suffer for want of
water at their roots, but liquid manure may be
afforded them occasionally. When the wood has
become fairly well ripened they may be removed
outside. If Plums are wanted for use at a later
date, they may be retarded by the freest venti-
lation, but, at the same time, do not neglect to
syringe them well, and frequently, or to supply
water to the roots whenever this is necessary.

THE FLOWER GARDEN.

By Hugh A, Pkttigkew. Gardener to the Earl of Plymouth
St. Pagan's Castle, Glamorganshire.

The Campanula. — This interesting and attrac-
tive genus of plants is already at this season
much in evidence in beautifying the "her-
baceous border" or the "wild" places in our
garden. The forms and colours of the Cam-
panula are so much diversified that they can be
used freely without fear of monotony, and are
in every way invaluable to the successful ar-
rangement of a real mixed border of hardy
floweiing plants.

Not the least beautiful and useful of the Cam-
panulas are the different varieties of the Can-
terbury Bell, though, unfortunately, their period
of blooming is very short ; if, however, pains
are taken to go over the plants when the flowers
are past and remove the seed pods, a new
flowering season will be secured three or
four weeks later. The Canterbury Bell requires
treating as a biennial, and seeds should have
been sown earlier in the year, but nearly all the
perennial ones may be sown row either in boxes
or in the open ground. Th.; preferable plan is
to sow in boxes, pot up in autumn, and winter
the plants in frames, with the object of plant-
ing out in spring.

Campanula pyramidalis is a splendid peren-
nial for the border. It loves a half-shady, moist
nook, with plenty of good, light soil : its tall,
fleshy flower stems will then reach 5 or 6 feet
high. Both the blue and white forms are ad-
mirable for giving height to borders in conjunc-
tion with Michauxias, Delphiniums, and Holly-
hocks. For using in large vases in a cut state

they are indispensable. The variei;;-, of C. per-
sicifolia, especially C. p. maxima (a giant form),
C. p. cornata coerulea, and C. p. c. ulba, are
admirable for borders, and are amongst the best
and finest of the tall-growing sorts.

C. platycodon grandiflora is another splendid
plant for the hardy flower border : it likes a light,
dry soil, as its fleshy roots are liable to decay
in wet soils. The plants grow to about 18 inches
to 2 feet in height, and bear very stately blue
flowers. Grown in bold clumps, C. rotundifolia
(the wild Harebell) is very pretty. It is the
best of the small flowering species, though for
variety C. alpina and C. primula are deserving
of cultivation. There is also C. isophylla, a
vory lovely Italian species, which is charming
for the rock-garden or for a dry wall, or for even
the front of a border, if a part is particularly
prepared for it by draining and placing light,
sandy soil for its roots, and some loose stones
for .it to cover. C. van Houttei, bearing larger
flowers than almost any species, is very hand-
some and desirable, and should be in every bor-
der, as also should C. cordata, C. petiolata, C.
glomerata in sorts, and the light-blue C. elatine,
nor should the pretty C. nitida and its varieties
be forgotten.

THE KITCHEN GARDEN.

By J. Gibson, Gardener to His Grace the Duke of
Portland, Welbeck Abbey, Notts.

Seakale. — Growth now has advanced far
enough to make certain of thinning to one
crown only on each plant. This is essential to
obtaining the best produce. If the plants show
any sign of weakness apply a sowing of nitrate
of soda in moderate proportions during showery
weather. Keep all weeds in check by hoeing
the ground deeply.

Rhubarb. — Plants intended for forcing should
not be further drawn upon, it being necessary for
the crowns to develop to the highest degree pos-
sible. If the plants are young, a liberal mulch-
ing of dung should be given, and if the best
possible results are required, plenty of liquid
manure may be also afforded.

Mulching. — Many crops should now be top-
dressed either with well-rotted manure or litter.
In doing such work time is profitably spent.
Peas and Beans stand first in need of plenty of
long litter placed over their roots. Onions that
are being grown to large specimens should have
a layer of horse-droppings put an inch deep
over the whole surface of the ground ; less water
will then be required, and a better result ob-
tained. Watering on the surface is very often a
source of evil instead of good, as it tends to close
the pores of the soil, thus excluding the air. The
surface becomes caked in consequence when the
sun has shone upon it for a few hours. Mulch-
ing prevents this condition, being open in its
character, and not readily sealed up.

Salads. — During the next two or three months
small saladings will be somewhat difficult to
get in first-class condition, and this will be
much more apparent on light soil containing an
excessive quantity of sand or chalk. Select the
coolest border for sowing seeds of such things
as Lettuces, Radishes, Endive, Corn Salads,
etc. Soak the ground well with water the day
before sowing, which is far better than water-
ing after sowing. Protect the seeds from birds
by securely netting the seed bed. Sow once a
week at this season in small quantities.

Carrots and Turnips. — Together with the
salads, little sowings should also be made of
Carrots and Turnips, but it will be useless to
sow Carrots much later than this date, as they
will not be likely to mature. A small sowing
should be made of Globe Beet, which will be
useful in the autumn.

Celery. — The plants raised from the latest
sowing of Celery should be planted without fur-
ther delay, and a good watering be given at
the time of planting. The earliest plants will
now require all side growths removed, and a
top-dressing of any well-known fertiliser given to
quicken growth. Top-dress the plants intended
for exhibiting, and also where papering is used
for blanching purposes in preference to soil. It
is astonishing how quickly the roots of Celery
take hold of top-dressings. Celery is a thirsty
plant, and should be afforded water in abun-
dance. -Sow a sprinkling of hot lime in the
lines in the evening, so as to lessen the number
of slugs, which, if allowed, would soon injure
the stems of the plants.

422

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

'JUNE 30, 1906.

EDITORIAL NOTICE.

ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUB-
LISHER, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden,
W.C.

Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants
for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR,
41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London.
Communications should be written on one side onlv of
THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, ami duly
signed by tlie writer. If desired, the sigtiature will not be
printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith.

special Notice to Correspondents.— r/ic Editor does not
undertake to pay for any contributions or illustrations, or
to return unused communications or illustrations, imless by
special arrangement. The Editor does not Iwld himself
responsible for any opinions expressed by his correspondents.

Illustrations,- T/w Editor will be glad to receive andto select
photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of
gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees^ S-c, but he
cannot be responsible for loss or injury.

Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers- should be
canfut to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see.

Local News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to
the Editor early intelligence of local eve7its likely to be of
interest to our readers, or of any matters whichit is desirable
to bring under the notice of horticulturists.

APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK.

SATURDAY,

TUESDAY,

WEDNESDAY, July 4

THURSDAY,

SATURDAY

T„„» an S Windsor and Eton Rose & Hort.
J.me30| Show.

{Nat. Amateur Gard. Assoc. Con-
versazione.
Harrow Flower Show,
button and District Rose Show.
Hanley Park Fete (2 days).
Croydon Flower Show.
Tunbridge Wells Flower Show.
Lee, Blackheath, and Lewisham

Flower Show (2 days).
Nat. Rose Soc. Exh. at Regent's

Park.
Nat. Sweet Pea Soc. Show at
Roy. Horti. Hall, Westminster.
Soc. Franc, d" Hort. de Londres
meet. German Gardeners' Soc.
meet.

Julys

July?

Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from

observations of Forty-three Years at Chiswick — 63 0'-
AcTUAL Temperatures:—

LotiDon.— Wednesday, June Z1 (6 p.m.): Mas. 73"; Min.
54°.
Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street,
Covent Garden, London. — Thursday, June 28
(10 A.M.): Bar., 300; Temp., 6T ; Weather—
Overcast.
Vnovmc^s.— Wednesday, June 27 (6 p.m.) : Max. 71°
London ; Min. 56° Liverpool.

SALES.

WEDNESDAY—

Palms, Plants, Standard Bays, Ferns, Cycas revoluluta,
&c., at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.C., by Protheroe & Morris,
at 1.

FRIDAY—

Choice Imported and Established Orchids in variety,
at 67 & 68, Cheapside, E.G., by Protheroe & Morns,
at 12.45.

Potato

Much uncertainty has hitherto
been felt as to the precise man-
Disease. ^^^ "^ which the outbreak of the
disease occurs, and as to the
causes of the sudden and rapid manner in
which it devastates our fields. Of course the
fungal origin of the mischief is now no longer
doubted, even by those growers who were
wont in years gone by to attribute the disease
to any cause rather than the true one.
Hitherto the general impression has been that
climatical conditions, occurring at a particular
season, favoured the rapid development and
increase of the fungus and promoted the
germination of its spores, and this is true.
But where were the spores before ? Whence
did they come ? How is it that they develop
so suddenly and spread with such rapidity ?
At one time it was considered that certain
" resting spores," the product of sexual inter-
action, remained in the tubers or sets through-
out the winter, ready to burst into activity
when the proper time came. But the " resting
spores " which were observed were afterwards
found to belong to another species altogether.
Be this as it may, we are all familiar with
brown spots and discolourations seen in
Potatos when cut open, even when outwardly

they present no sign of disease. These have
been figured in our columns on various
occasions, and were carefully observed in the
experiments conducted at Chiswick under the
auspices of the Scientific Committee many
years ago.

A series of experiments made bj' Mr. Massee
at Kew, the results of which are published in
the last number of the Kcw Bulletin, No. 4,
1906, go to show that these spots are connected
with the presence of spawn which has remained
alive during the winter, and which is conse-
quently called " hibernating mycelium." Some
spotted tubers were grown with all due pre-
cautions. Those that were placed under a
bell-glass in conditions of high temperature,
dull light, and much moisture, showed the first
outward indication of the fungus when the
shoots were six weeks old, and a fortnight later
the plants were blackened and destroyed by
the fungus. Three other plants from the same
batch of tubers were grown in a cool, well-
lighted, dry house, and showed no external
trace of disease at the end of two months.
One of these three was then removed to the
warm house and placed under a bell jar.
Within nine days that plant succumbed to the
attacks of the fungus. A second plant was
treated in the same manner, and with the
same result. The third was allowed to go on
growing in the cool house for thirteen weeks,
and at the end of that time remained perfectly
free from obvious disease.

Similar observations, with identical results,
were made with Potatos affected with leaf-
curl. It may then be taken as certain that the
spawn remains latent in the tubers all the time
the conditions are not favourable to its develop-
ment, but that it starts into activity when
favourable circumstances compel it to do so.
This sudden renascence accounts for the first
outward appearance of the disease, which
rapidly spreads by the subsequent dissemina-
tion of the spores.

Our Supplementary Illustration. — In

no class of flowers is it easier to effect crosses
between genera and species than in the natural
order Orcbidacea:, which fact has enabled the
hybridist to blend desirable characteristics of the
one parent with those of another. Thus the beauty
and elegance of one flower can be intermingled
with the substance and size of another, and this is
seen in the beautiful Brasso-Cattleya " Mrs.
Francis Wellesley," the offspring of the big-lipped
Brassavola Digbyana and Cattleya Luddemaniana.
Although the first-named parent has before given
us some flowers of very large size, this variety is
quite the largest of its class, for it measures over
II inches across, while in addition the colours
are exquisitely displayed and of very delicate
tinting, making it a flower of great beauty.
The sepals and fringed petals are of a silver white
shade, tinted a faint lilac-rose. The mid-rib of
each segment is white at the base. The finely
fringed lip is over 4 inches across. The disc is
primrose-yellow, the front being a soft shade of
rose. It was shown by Francis Welleslev,
Esq., at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural
Society, on April 17 last, when it received a First
Class Certificate.

South-Eastern Agricultural College.

— We are informed that the Right Hon. Earl
Carrington (President of the Board of Agri-
culture) will open the new buildings at the South-
Eastern Agricultural College, Wye, and dis-
tribute the Diplomas and prizes, on Wednesday,
July 18, at 3.15 p.m.

Flowers in Season. — Messrs. R. Veitch &
Son, of E.xeter, send us a large consignment of
cut flowers of various ornamental shrubs — all of
which are beautiful in their way, but mostly well-
known, so that the mere mention will suffice : —

Spir.e.\ Foxi is an erect shrub with slender,
golden yellow branches, glabrous, oblong-acute
leaves, slightly toothed near the apex, and tapering
at the base into a short stalk. The very numerous
small white flowers are in terminal, much branched,
flat corymbs. In the Kew Hand List the name is
given as synonymous with S. sorbifolia, but the
present plant is very different in its characters
from that species, being more like S. callosa (syn.
S. japonica) of which it is probably a variety.

Cytisl-s Schipkaensis. — An attractive legumin-
ous shrub with dense, virgate, slender, ascending
branches, small trifoliolate leaves and heads of
white, pea-shaped flowers. A capital plant for
the rockery or shrubbery border.

Ononis fruticosa. — An erect branching shrub
with wiry stems, trifoliolate leaves with linear,
coarsely serrate leaflets, and terminal racemes of
rosy violet flowers. A charming plant for the
rockery or the front of the shrubbery.

RoBiNiA HispiDA macrophvlla has numerous
rather large pea-shaped flowers of a rosy violet
colour. The foliage is pinnate with oblong leaflets.

Olearia macrodonta. — One of the best of its
class ; its boldly toothed leaves, creamy on the
under surface, and its branching panicles of small
white flower-heads are very striking. It is quite
hardy.

Swammerdamia antennaria. — Why do people
have such names to be inflicted on unoffending
plants ? This is a Composite shrub with densely
set, ascending branches, small, thick, obovate,
green leaves, tapering to a short stalk and close
panicles of small white flower-heads.

OzoTHAMNUS RosMARiNiFOLius. — A shrubby
Composite with loose slender branches, linear
leaves deep green above, creamy white beneath,
and with incurved margins. The white flower-
heads are small, very numerous, crowded into
masses at the ends of the branches.

EscALLONiA ptekocladon. — A very pretty shrub
with slender, four-sided branches, slightly winged
at the corners. The small leaves are obovate,
acute, slightly glandular-serrate, the tubular white
flowers arranged singly in the axils of the leaves
at the ends of the branches.

E.Langlevensis X is the beautiful hybrid raised
at Langley by Mr. Seden. Its slender branches,
crowded with deep rose-coloured flowers, are very
attractive.

E. EXONiENSis X . — A hybrid with the foliage
of E. macrantha, and racemes of white, tubular
flowers, flushed with pink.

Abutilon viiifolium. — The vine-like leaves
and large pale lilac mallow-like flowers are de-
lightful. If the gardener will look at the under
side of the leaves with a pocket lens, he will find
an additional attraction in the numerous white,
star-like flairs with which the leaves are studded,
especially on their under surface. Figured in the
Gardcncis' Chronicle, August 26, 1899, p. 171.

Calvcanthus macrophyllus. — A near relative
of the old Carolina alspice.

Viburnum dilatatum. — A near ally of our own
V. lantana.

Messrs. Stansfield, of Kew, near Southport,
send us a specimen of a hybrid Calceolaria
with yellow flowers, sprinkled with reddish dots.
The plant is stated to be perfectly hardy, and
bears a close resemblance to one we had occasion
to mention recently.

From Mr. Smith, of Newry, we have re-
ceived specimens of the curious Distylium race-
mosum, a shrub with fiexuose branches, alternate,
shortly-stalked, leathery, oblong, acute, glabrous
leaves, dark shining green on the upper sur-
face, paler beneath, about 2 inches long by half

June 30, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

42?

an inch in breadth. The flowers are borne in
axillary racemes half the length of the leaves,
the flower stalks and oblong bracts covered
with brown, stellate, membranous scales. The
flowers, about half an inch long, have a calyx of
five oblong sepals detached or slightly coalescent
at the base, no petals, five free stamens hypo-
gynous or very slightly perigynous flat filaments
continuous with the ovate, acute, lobed, purple
anthers, which open longitudinally ; ovary ovoid,
flattened, densely tomentose, 2-celIed, with two
long purple stigmas. The number of the parts
varies a little in different flowers. The plant is
allied to the Hamamelids, and with Bucklandia,
Corylopsis Parrottia, and some others forms the
curious order Hamamelidace£e, which some merge
into the Saxifragaceas, as if that group were not
already sufficiently polymorphic. For those inter
ested in hardy shrubs this plant, a native of Japan,
will have attractions, as it is not only of pleasing
appearance, but curious in structure.

Kew Bulletin. — The fourth number for 1906
has been issued. Its varied and interesting con-
tents will secure for it wide appreciation. Botanists
in particular will rejoice at the publication of so
many new species, and all will be interested in the
miscellaneous notes which reflect the recent work
dune in the garden and its dependencies. Mr.
Massee's note on the perpetuation of the Potato
disease will be read with great interest by Potato
growers. During winter portions of the spawn
or mycelium remain alive and ready to develop
when circumstances become favourable.

Iris Sprengeri. — Dr. Stansfield, of Read-
ing, kindly sends a photograph of the rare species
introduced from Asia Minor, and figured in our
columns on July 23, 1904. The spreading falls are
stiff, oblong, pointed, straw-coloured, with chestnut-
brown coloured veins, with a blotch of the same
colour at the base ; the standards erect, somewhat
convolute. Dr. Stansfield points out a re-
semblance to I. Ewbankiana, Gardeners' Chronicle,
June 22, 1901, fig. 152, and to I. acutiloba (see
Lynch, The Book of the Iris, p. 104), but says that
it differs from both of them in color, &c. With
the photograph of Iris Sprengeri Dr. Stansfield
sends one of the white variety of Iris tectorum.
With the exception of a few golden-colored veins
on the claw and crest, the flower is pure white.
The typical form was figured in our columns, July
6, 1876, p. 37. I. tectorum is a lovely species and
quite hardy.

"The Green Gateway: a Peep into the
Plant World," is the title of a new book by
Mr. Francis George Heath — the first volume
of his Nature's Doorstep series, fully illustrated :
Studies of earth, air, and water, for young people.
The Country Press, of Kensington, W., will be
the publishers.

Odontoglossum crispum. — Mr. Hudson
sends us from Gunnersbuiy a flower with two
sepals, two petals crossing them at right angles,
two lips placed diagonally, one broad column
evidently made up of two united, one anther, one
pair of pollen masses, and a six-lobed ovary with
six compartments. From this it appears as though
two flowers had become fused at a very early stage
and that the coalescence of some of the organs
had entailed the disappearance of some others.

Holidays on THE Continent. — The tempting
little handbook with this title, written by Mr.
Percy Lindley, describes the Great Eastern
Railway Company's routes and tours. Holland,
North Germany, Tyrol, and other charming dis-
tricts are dealt with briefly, and there are illustra-
tions of some of the most famous scenerj'. Intend-
ing travellers by Harwich, the Hook of Holland
and Antwerp should apply for time tables and
particulars to either of the company's agents, or
to the Continental Traffic Manager, Liverpool
Street Station, E.G.

" Country in Town ■■ Exhibition. — Her

Majesty the Queen has graciously extended her
patronage to the "Country in Town" Exhibi-
tion, which will be opened by H.R.H. Princess
Christian in the Whitechapel Art Gallery, at
half-past three o'clock on July 5. A series of
afternoon and evening lectures is being arranged,
dealing with many subjects cognate to the idea
that underlies the exhibition, such as gardens,
garden cities and suburbs, tree planting in London,
bees, and natural history generally. The exhibi-
tion will be open until July 19, and admission will
be free. The honorary secretary is Mr. Wilfred
Mark Webb, Toynbee Hall, Whitechapel, E.

Presentation. — We are informed that on the
occasion of the marriage of Mr. Laurence J.
Cook, of Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., on the 12th
inst., the staff took the opportunity of presenting
him w'ith a handsome "Tantalus," suitably in-
scribed.

Increased Wages in Kew Gardens. — It is
reported that the wages of the garden labourers
at Kew have been increased from 21s. to 23s. per
week dating from Monday last, June 25.

The Wolverhampton Floral Fete. —
The 18th annual floral and musical fete will take
place in the West Park, on July 10, 11, and 12,
when an attractive and varied programme is offered
to visitors. The Park is an ideal place for the
holding of such a carnival, and is of itself well
worth a visit, the many acres of well-cultured and
flower-bedecked grounds being now in the best of
condition.

Flower Shows at Birmingham. — The
second of the special shows arranged to take
place this year in the Botanical Gardens, Edg-
baston, will be held on Wednesday next, July 4.

Messrs. Sutton & Sons' Annual Excur-
sion.— The emploj-ees of Messrs. Sutton & Sons,
seedsmen, Reading, with their friends, numbering
together eight hundred, had their annual outing
on Thursday, June 21. Two trains left Reading
f jr Portsmouth Harbour. The steamer ' ' Duchess
of Kent" had been specially chartered for the
day, and as soon as all were aboard left for the
Isle of Wight, many getting off at Ryde, while the
remainder took advantage of a trip to Sandown
and Shanklin. All the partners accompanied the
excursion, their party including Mr. and Mrs.
Martin J. Sutton, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur W. Sutton,
Mr. Leonard Sutton, Mr. & Mrs. Martin H. F.
Sutton, and Mr. E. P. F. Sutton.

Botanic Gardens, Cambridge. — We have
received, from the Curator, the Annual Report of
the Botanic Garden Syndicate, June 7, 1906. It
details increased activity in experimental work in
connection with plant breeding, and a valuable
scheme for providing work for respectable unem-
ployed men in winter. In January, the Honorary
Degree of M.A., was conferred upon Mr. Lynch,
in recognition of his services to botanic science in
the University as Curator of the Botanic Garden
since 1879. In the past year the Curator was
awarded the Victoria Medal of Honour in Horti-
culture by the Royal Horticultural Society.

HOME CORRESPONDENCE.

{The Editor does not hold himself responsible for the
opinions expressed ly his correspondents.)
The Thames Embankment Gardens. — At
the present time these gardens, which extend in
three sections from near Westminster Bridge to
the Temple on the north bank of the Thames, are
looking so fresh, and so many improvements have
been effected that they deserve a note. The turf
especially is in excellent condition, and as a great
portion of it has been in existence for over 20
years, it is remarkable that with all the unfavour-
able influences of a London atmosphere, it should
continue so thick and flourishing. Constant atten-
tion to summer watering, and autumn or spring

assistance with dressings and fertilisers, have alone
ensured these satisfactory results, but it is a con-
vincing proof of what can be accomplished in
city gardening under the right system. The trees
and the shrubs also appear to be flourishing sur-
prisingly for such a dry season, but in their case
also the command of ample water supplies, with
the judiciously frequent use of this help is the
secret of success. Considerable alterations have
been effected in the beds devoted to flowering
plants, and the results are more satisfactory
than they were a season or two since, as bolder
and more telling masses are provided. An
example of this was shown a week or two ago,
when some of the beds were filled with Rhodo-
dendrons which afforded some fine floral effects.
A few Palms have been introduced, but much more
could be done in this direction with advantage, and
a few of the more distinct sub-tropical plants
would look well in the grass where the shelter is
sufficient, and some of the recently planted trees
might be removed with advantage and the lines of
the shrubberies simplified. The London County
Council does no better or more popular work than
that devoted to the maintenance of such gardens.
How greatly they are appraciated is proved by
the large number of visitors. The provision of a
band every evening is a great attraction, and
it is stated that over 100,000 penny tickets for seats
were sold last year. These Embankment gardens
on both sides of the Thames, together with the
garden at Leicester Square, are now under the
superintendence of Mr. Frank Wright, who has
had long previous experience in the same charge.
Experientia.

Celsia cretica. — This charming plant is not
so widely cultivated as it should be. Plants will
flower from seed with little trouble. But to get
the best results plants should be procured from a
reliable nurseryman, and planted about one foot
apart. The flowers are borne on spikes of about
1^ to 2 feet, and are delightfully scented, of a clear
yellow, with deep crimson ' blotches on the two
upper petals, about 1| inches across. The foliage
is of a deep shade of green, which gives great effect
to the plant. This beautiful plant does well in
deep, sandy soil, and very little moisture, but if
given a copious supply of w'ater during dry
weather it will repay this by blooming for a longer
period. It is quite hardy in this country. IV. F.
Glover, Langport, Somerset.

The Rose Show in the Royal Botanic
Gardens. — Managers of Rose and, other horti-
cultural exhibitions have hitherto had to contend
against two serious difficulties: 1. How to keep
down the heat in the show tents on a hot day ; 2,
How to obtain for the visitors even moderately
good refreshments which are in any v/ay efficiently
served. At the leading exhibition of the National .
Rose Society, which will be held in the Royal
Botanic Gardens, on Thursday next, July 5, an
earnest endeavour will be made to meet both these
difficulties. In addition to the show tents being
well ventilated, the canvas on the outside will bi
kept constantly moist throughout the day, shovU
the weather prove unusually warm, by means of a
steam sprayer, which will be provided and worlel
by Messrs. Merryweather and Sons. Asregaid;
the refreshments, a well ventilated luncheon ttnc
to seat nearly 400 visitors at a time will be provided ;
while teas can be obtained either in this tent or
under the shade of the trees in the immediate
neighbourhood of it. When I say that 1,200 teas
were recently served to visitors seated at tables
under the trees in the Royal Botanic Gardens by
thepresentcaterers, the Frederick Hotels, Limited,
to the satisfaction of all concerned, there is every
reason to hope that the refreshments this year will
at all events give reasonable satisfaction. Those
visitors who travel to the show by the new railway
from Waterloo to Baker Street, will find this route
a delightfully cool one. Edward Maiuley, Hon.
Secretary, fitne 27, 1906.

Rosmarinus officinalis prostratus, men
tioned by Mr. Arnott on page 381, is found in
plenty on the cliffs of the island of Capri, &c..
South Italy. It was, I believe, introduced to
our gardens by Miss Jekyll. A group of this little
Rosemary at the Botanic Garden here was much
injured during the past winter, the greater number
of the plants dying during the unfavourable
weather of the early months of this year, although
several previous winters had left them unharmed.
Some young examples are now on a portion of a
"wall garden," which suits them well, as the
position is dry and well exposed to the sun. ,
D. S. Fish, Edinburgh.

■'424

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[JuM-. 30, 1905.

SOCIETIES.

ROYAL HOETICTJLTURAL.

June 26.— The Society's Hall in Vincent
Square, Westminster, was again conveniently
full of exhibits on the occasion of the ordinary
fortnightly meeting on Tuesday last, but the
number of visitors was less than at prece hng
shows during the past few months. Orchids
seem never to lack at these nleetings, and on
Tuesday the Orchid Committee gave the fol-
lowing awards to novelties: — Two First-Class
Certificates, four Awards of Merit, and two
Botanical Certificates.

The Floral Committee had a large numbsr
of groups to inspect, but there were not many
novelties of -remark submitted for Certificate.
The awards consisted of three Awards of Merit,
■which were given to a double Fasony, an An-
tirrhinum, and a Rose.

Goldfinch. This latter variety is a new one,
with flowers If inch across of pale lemon colour,
the anthers being of a rich shade of orange and
very conspicuous. The foliage and inflorescence
are exactly those of a true Rambler, though o-ne
cf the parents was Celine Forestier, and the
variety is likely to meet with appreciation. In
p.dditi'on to these there were flowers of many
other good garden Roses, sprays of some choice
fiowermg shrubs, and a group of Peonies.
Among the shrubs there were some exception-
ally well-flowe>ed .«;hoots of the golden-yellow-
coloured Fremontia californica and the mauye-
coloi^ared Abutilon vitifolium. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

Messrs. Ben. Cant & Sons, Colchester,
showed bunches of Roses from the open. The
flowers were clean and shapely, and of fine
colour. We noticed the rich crimson Etoile de
France ; small but well-shaped flowers of Com-
tesse Festetics Hamilton, the new pink-coloured

occasion by Mr. C. F. Waters, Balcombe, Sus-
sex. The flowers were exceedingly good, and
they were arranged attractively in receptacles of
various kinds adaptable to the stage. Several of
the Souvenir de la Malmaison varieties were ex-
hibited conspicuously, and the border and tree
varieties were excellent. (Silver Gilt Flora
Medal.)

Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries,
Upper Edmonton, displayed vases of Zonal
Pelargoniums in a setting of small Ferns, and
plants of Ixoras Fraserii and I. macrothyrsa.

Messrs. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, Kent, s2t
up an interesting group of succulent plants
of varieties that are suitable for greenhouse de-
coration. Many were in flower, while the dwarf
Maxillaria pusilla carried both fruit and flowers,
the small red fruits being very conspicuous and
of attractive appearance. Opuntias, Cereus,
Maxillarias, Echinocacti, Euphorbias, and
many other genera were represeniea. Messrs.

[Diotc bv J. G.rgc:}'.

Fig. i6g.— one of the best tadle decorations exhibited by mr. w. iiavward kt the r.h.s. show on june 20

THE ROSE IS MADAME ABEL CHAlliNAV.

Theie were rather moie fruits f.nd vegetables
Ehown than there have been lately, but the Com-
mittee charged with the inspection of these did
not make any av/ard.

At the afternoon meeting a number of new
Fellows were elected, and the Rev. Geo.
Henslow, F.L.S., delivered a lecture on "Some
Remarkable Cases of Adaptation to the Condi-
tions of Life."

Floral Committee.

Present: W. Marshall, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. H. B. May, Geo. Paul, T. W. Turner,
C. T. Salter, C. Jeffries, C. Dixon, C. E. Pear-
son, C. E. Shea, W. Cuthbertson, W. P. Thom-
son, W. J. James, Jno. Cireen, J. T. Bennett
Poe, H. J. Jones, H. J. Cutbush, R. C. Notcutt,
J. W. Barr, Jas. Walker, A. Perry, R. Hooper
Pearson, and Jno. Jennings.

Messrs. PAtJL & Son, The Old Nurseries,
Cheshunt, staged a very fine group of interesting
and choice Roses. Among them were Mad. Jules
Gravereaux (see Awards) and Rambler Rose

single Mrs. O. G. Orpen, Mrs. B. R. Cant, of a
salmon-red shade, Antcine Rivoire, Lady Ash-
tc-vn, Clara Watson, &c. (Silver Banksian
Medal )

Messrs. Wm. Paul & Son, Wallham Cross,
Herts., exhibited their new crimson H.T. Rose
Warrior, and pot plants of a singk lemon-
coloured seedling Briar.

Mrs. T. B. Taylor, Sherfield Maiior, Basing-
stoke, showed a new strong-growing Kose named
after the exhibitor. The petals are pale rose
colour, with claret-coloured rpTerse.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park,
Enfield, Middlesex, showed floAers of varieties
cf Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations, and
two large pot plants of the variety Princess of
Wales. (Bronze Flora Medal )

Mr. F. E. Seys, Mark's Nursery, Romford,
Essex, showed a seedling Carnation named
King Edward VH. The flowers were small and
of a poor shade of scarlet.

One of the best exhibits of cut Carnations ex-
hibited during the season was shown on this

Cannell also stagod a batch of the new Carna-
tlo.T Duchess of ".Marlborough, rosy-flaked on
buff ground, and a row of Souvetiir de la Mal-
maison Carnations "Newton Don." (SiWer
Banksian Medal. 1

Mr. Henry Eckford, Wem, Shropshire,
put up a large collection of Sweet Peas
in glass vases on a white table ground.
All the choicer and newer varieties were repre-
sented, including the salmon-scarlet Miss Will-
mott, the beautiful orange-scarlet Henry Eck-
ford ; Agnes Eckfojd (new), with flowers of a
soft rose-blush shade and having a paler keel
and wings. Another new variety is Ilorace
Wright : the colour is indigo blue. It is quite
one of the best dark blue varieties of this popular
flower. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Miss Hemus, Holdfast Hall, Upton-on-Severn,
made an exhibit of Sweet Peas of the varieties
Paradise, rose-coloured, Ice Maiden, white. Yel-
low Gem, Helen Lewis, and others.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, Surrey, filled one corner of the Hall

June 30, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

425

with plants of the ornamental silver-leaved
Uimorphanthus mandchur'cus, the group b;ing
completed with an edging of small plants of
Hedera helix arborea flavescens.

Messrs. James Veitch & Sons, Ltd., King's
Road, Chelsea, showed a mixed group of green-
house flowering plants. They had some very
nice Gloxinias, batches of Lobelia tenuior, Reh-
mannia angulata, Exacum macranthum, and
Streptocarpi, a few hybrid Gerberas, and several
hybrid greenhouse Rhododendrons. In another
part of the Hall Messrs. Veitch staged a group
of hardy flowering plants, Pseonies, Heucheras,
Kremuri, &c. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. JNO. Laing & So.ns, Forest Hill Nur-
serieij, London, had arranged a large group of
Caladiunis on the floor of the Hall, such a group
as we are accustomed to see at the Temple or
Holland Park Shows. The same firm had a
small group of choice Codiaeums. (Silver Bank-
sian Medal.)

Mr. G. Keuthe, Fox Hill Nursery, Keston,
Kent, exhibited varieties of Iris and other bor-
der flowers. Among these several bunches of
old-fashioned Ixias were attractive owing to
their quaint colouring. (Bronze Flora Medal.)

From Messrs. K. Veitch & Son, Exeter, were
shown sprays of the less hardy flowering shrubs,
including the fragrant Carpenteria caiifornica,
with its pure white flowers and yellow anthers,
Abutilon vitifolium. Convolvulus cneorum, &.c.

Messrs. JNo. Waterer & Sons, Ltd., Bagshot,
contributed a group of Kalmia latifolia, uwart
plants, in pots, and very freely flowered. (Silver
Flora Medal.)

Mr. Maurice Prichaed, Christchuich, Hants.,
had the pr*:tty Gillenia tnfoliata in the centre of
his ground group of hardy flowers. On either
side were varieties of Ins hispanica and of Del-
phiniums, and Psonies. Kniphofia lufa is a very
early variety, yellow after fully open, and red
before opening. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. W. CuriiusH & Sons, Highgate Nur-
series, London, N., made an imposing exhibit of
border plants and flowers. Conspicuous among
these were Campanula macrantha, of tall growth,
Delphinium grandiflorum, IncarviUea Uelavayi,
Liliuin - Batemanianum, Lychnis Haageana,
Kniphofia caulescens, ICremurus robustus,
Ilemerocailis fulva, varieties of Pyrethrum
roseum, Romneya Coulteri, Irises, &c., and
flowers of Water Lilies, with a background of
aquatic plants. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

_l. A. You.NG, Esq., Putney, obtained a Silver
Banksian Medal for an exhiljit of Pelargoniums.

Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Gar-
den, London, displayed a large assortment of
hardy flowers in season, including pans of hardy
Nymphasas, of pink and white coloured varieties.
Delphiniums in many pleasing shades of blue,
Irises, Ixias, &c. (Silver Banksian Medal.)

Mr. Amos Perry, Winchmore Hill, and En-
field, Middlesex, exhibited border flowers in
grxiat variety. Conspicuous were varieties of
iree-flowering single Pinks, Oriental Poppies,
Heucheras in variety, Morina longifolia (a
Dipsaceous plant, with Acanthus-like inflor-
escence and Thistle-like foliage). Campanulas,
tic. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. H. B.vni, Ltd., Floral Farms, Wis-
bech, exhibited a large number of Paeonies, all of
which were well-known varieties. At the back
were spikes of Delphiniums, and adjoining was
a batch of show Pelargoniums. These last-
named plants were well-grown specimens, and
they were all carrying a profusion of flowers.
(Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. Kelway Hl Sons, Langport, Somerset,
exhibited large collections of Paeonies and Del-
phiniums, very similar to their display at the last
meeting of the Society.

Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Lowfield Nurseries,
Crawley, Sussex, staged a nice assortment of
border flowers and vases of Sweet Peas, which
formed an edging to the exhibit. (Bronze Flora
Medal.)

The Misses Hopkins, Mere, Knutsford, Che-
shire, displayed a number of hardy flowers and
Alpine and rock garden plants.

The Craven Nursery Co., Clapham, arranged
a small rock garden planted with appropriate
plants.

Messrs. John Peed & Son, West Norwood,
London, showed many pans and boxes of Alpine
plants.

Messrs. Thos. Ceipps & Son, Tunbridge Wells,
Kent, exhibited sprays of ornamental foliage of
such hardy trees and shiubs as Oaks, Maples,

Elms, Beech, Privet, Elders, &c. Intermingled
among these were many flowering shrubs and
garden flowers. We noticed a vase of the showy
Carpenteria caiifornica, and some splendid in-
florescences of Phlomis fruticosa. The " fringe
tree " Chionanthus virginicus found a promi-
nent place in the group.

Messrs. Geo. Bunvard & Co., Ltd., Maid-
stone, Kent, showed a large collection of garden
flowers — Irises, Pyrethruins, Aquilegias, Pop-
pies, Pinks, Paeonies, &c. (Silver Banksian
Medal.)

The Guildford Hardy Plant Nursery Co.,
Guildford, Surrey, displayed a group of hardy
flowers. Great variety was seen in the exhibit,
and all the flowers were presented in first-class
condition. W'e noticed a beautiful specimen of
the dwarf Rhododendron myrtifolium nanum.
(Silver Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. W.\i. Bull & Sons, King's Road,Chel-
sea, showed a stand of English and Spanish
Irises in all the best and newer varieties.

Mr. F. H. GoDDAED, 60, Fawe Park Road,
Putney, showed a new blue Verbena named May
Godaard.

Messrs. G. & A. Clarke, The Nurseries,
Dover, set up a display of herbaceous flowers —
Paionies, Irises, Pyrethrums, Campanulas,
Lilies, Gaillardias, . Pinks, &c. We noticed a
nice vase of Centaurea macrocephala and another
of Phlomis Russelliana. (Silver Flora Medal.)

Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Kilnfield Nur-
series, Colchester, exhibited a collection of
hardy herbaceous flowers of much merit. The
group was very representative of the best things
now in season, and they were displayed in an
approved manner. We may select Campanula
alba grandiflora, Centaurea pulchra major. Iris
King of Yellows (shown remarkably well), small
plants of Campanula G. F. Wilson, Glauciura
flavum tricolor, and Isatis glauca as worthy of
especial mention. (Silver Gilt Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. R. Smith & Co., Worcester, exhibited
variegated foliage of hardy trees and shrubs, a
number of vases containing showy garden
flowers, and some beautiful little Conifers of very
healthy appearance. We noticed spikes of the
curious Rhodiola sibirica in this collection.
(Bronze Banksian Medal.)

Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, Sussex,
staged a meritorious ex ibit of hardy flowers,
in which were seen popular and brilliant
varieties of most hardy subjects. (Bronze Flora
Medal.)

Messrs. Carter, Page & Co., 52 and 53, Lon-
don W all, Lo.ndon, showed flowering sprays of a
large number of varieties of Fuchsias, and a
beautiful display of Cactus Dahlias. The latter
were selected for their refined colours and
medium size. We noticed the new J. B. Riding,
an excellent flower ; Violetta, with shade of
violet-rose flushed with crimson ; Kriemhilda,
creamy-white tinted with cerise pinl; ; Butterfly,
an attractive flower, with crimson petals tipped
with white, cic. (Bronze Flora Medal.)
AWARDS.

Anlirrhiiium "'Collage Maid." — A fine, bold-
flowering variety, with exceedingly attractive
flowers, the tube being white, and the upper and
lower lobes rcss-coloured, with a little yellow
shading at the junction of the two lobes. Shown
by Messrs. DobbiK & Co. (Award of Merit.)

Paot'ia Tilons. Chas. Levcque. — A very large,
double flower, of pale flesh colour, with a little
richer colour towards the centre. Shown by
-Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech. (Award of
Merit.)

Hose Hlme. J . Gravereaux. — This fine exhibition
hybrid tea Rose was shown by Messrs. Paul &
Son, Cheshunt. It has long petals of fine form,
the buds are pretty, and the flowers have unusual
substance ; the colour is cream, flushed with
pink. (Award of Merit.)

Orchid Committee.

Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the chair),
and Messrs. Jas. 0'13rien (hon. sec). De B. Craw-
shay, Francis Wellesley, R. Brooman-White, H.
Little, W. Boxall, A. A. McBean, G. F. Moore.
F. M. Ogilvie, W. H. "White, H. A. Tracy, W.
Bolton, H. J. Chapman, W. Cobb, R. G. Thwaites,
Arthur Dye, H. G. Ale.vander, H. Ballantine, and
Harry J. Veiich.

The magnificent and well-arranged group for
which Major G. L. Holford. CLE , C.V.O.
(gr. Mr. H. G. Alexander), was awarded the
Society 's Gold Medal , was a very remarkable exhibit
and good at all points. Two of the best, viz.,

Sobralia Holfordii and Cattleya Whitei splendi-
dissima also secured First Class Certificates, and"
Sobralia Amesise an Award of Merit. The back
of the group displayed some splendid specimens
of Sobralias. including S. Veitchii, S. macrantha
alba and others, the specimens bearing from six to-
12 large flowers each. With them were Oncidiuni
macranthum with about 50 flowers ; fine sprays of
the large white Phaljenopsis Rimestadtiana, fine-
Odontoglossum Uro-Skinneri and others of similar
habit. The main feature m the body of the group
was a fine set of Cattleya Warscewizii, very pro-
fusely flowered, one specimen having 12 blooms-
and another five large flowers on a spike. With-
them were Lseha tenebrosa, ' ' Westonbirt variety, ' '
a very richly coloured form ; Lselio-Cattleya Clive
magnifica, L.-C. Martineti, L.-C. Baroness Schro-
der, L.-C. calUstoglossa " Earl Grey," a very-
handsome form, and other Cattleyas. In the
centre was a basket of three plants of the ri:h
crimson Sophro-Laelia laeta orpetiana, and behind
it the noble white Miltonia "Queen Alexandra,"
which had previously been awarded a F'irst Class
Certificate.

H. L. BiscHOFFSHEiM, Esq., The Warren
House, Stanmore (gr. Mr. Ellis), was awarded a
Silver Gilt Flora Medal for a very extensive group
made up principallv of finely grown and well-
bloomed varieties of Cattleya Mossise, showing
remarkable variety in the colouring and form of
the flowers, that named Countess of Desart being
a very brightly coloured and attractive variety.
Arranged with the Cattleya Mossia; were several
good C. Mendeli, Laelia purpurata with 16
flowers ; L. tenebrosa with 12 flowers ; a nice
selection of Odontoglossums, including O. crispum,
Lehmanni, O. Hallii. and O. odoratum,

J. B. Joel, Esq., Northaw House, Potters Bar
(gr. Mr. May), received a Silver Flora Medal
lor a group containing some excellent specimens
of CatUeya Warscewiczii, the flowers of which
were very finely developed. At one end was the
great specimen of Cypripedium Rothschildianum,
" Northaw variety," with a very strong spike of five
flowers and a bud, and in the group were several
fine Laelia tenebrosa, one specimen having two
spikes of five and two of four flowers.

Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Enfield, were
awarded a Silver Banksian Medal lor a group in
which were a good selection of their fine type of
Cattleya Mossiae and C. Mendeli, one of the
brightest of which was C. Mossiae " Bronze
Queen," of good colour and with distinct bronzy
orange in the lip. A nice variety of C. Mossiae
alba, with slight pencilling of purple on the lip,
was shown, and the rare white forms of both
Dendrobium crystallinum, D. Bensonas, and other
Dendrobiums ; also Promenaea xanthina, Barkeria
spectabilis, Cypripedium Maudiae magnifica, some
very fine C. niveum and Bulbophyllum Lowii of
the Sarcopodium section, and resembling B.
Godseffianum Hort., which is referred to B.
Dearei. In the variety Lowii the flowers have
broad yellow sepals bearing numerous dotted
chocolate purple lines, narrower petals, yellow
with lines of dark purple, and hinged lip, the tip
of which is purple and the raised crest yellow.

Norman C. Cookson, Esq., Oakwood, Wylam
(gr. Mr. H. J, Chapman), showed several very
handsomely blotched forms of Odontoglossum
crispum, the largest of which was his O. c.
Mundeyanum with flowers 4i inches across, the
sepals which were equal in width to the petals^
and 1^ inch across. The beautiful flowers had
the inner two-thirds of the segments of a light
purple colour, the reverse side being also tinged
with purple. Two new forms were O. crispum
"Terpsichore," with broad sepals and petals,
white with the purple tint on the backs showing
through and with some large light purple blotches ;
and O. c. " Medusa," a clear white variety
with evenly distributed claret purple blotches on
the sepals and petals. Mr. Cookson also showed
a flower of the valuable O. crispum Sanderas in
which high cultivation had caused the colouring to
spread all over the segments except the tips and
margin, and O. ardentissimum " Sibyl."

J. Hubert Grogan, Esq., Slaney Park, Baltin-
glass, CO. Wicklow, sent a good dark form of
Odontoglossum Harryanum.

Francis Wellesley. Esq., Westfield, Woking
(gr. Mr. Hopkins), showed Cypripedium Miss
Sillem superbum (Godefroyae x niveum), a pure
white flower freely spotted with purple and of
good shape.

Messrs. Stanley & Co., Southgate, sent
Cattleya Mendeli triumphans, a fine large coloured
form ; C. M. Harrisii, blush white with purple

426

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 30, 1906.

front to the crimped lip whicli had a white margin ;
a nice variety of C. M. Reineckiana and C. F. W.
Wigan.

Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart. (gr. Mr. W. H.
White), showed a small group of interesting plants,
for most of which see Awards.

AWARDS.

First Class Certificate.

Sobralia Halfordi, from Major G. L. HoLFORD,
CLE., C.V.O. (gr. Mr. H. G. Alexander). The
Enest of the S . macrantha section and distinguished
by its larger flowers, the very broad and finely
developed front to the lip, and its clear white
centre. The plant is believed to be only in Major
Holford's collection, from which it has been
frequently noted. Colour rich rose-purple with
white centre to the lip. The fine specimen bore
13 flowers.

Cattleya Whitei splendidissima, from Major G. L.
HoLFORD. Probably the finest and brightest col-
oured hybrid of C. Schilleriana, and obtained by
crossing that species with a good C. Warneri.
Colour clear rosy-purple with the broad, rounded
front of the Up finely veined with glowing ruby-
purple, the disc being orange and the margin lilac
colour.

Award of Merit.

Sobralia Amesiis (xantholeuca x Wilsoniana), from
Major G. L. Holford. Flowers large and of a
delicate buff-yellow tinged with rose. The speci-
men bore 10 fiowers.

Cattlcya Mossia Mrs. A. Goodson, from H. S.
GooDSON, Esq., Fairlawn, West Hill, Putney (gr.
Mr. G. E. Day). A very remarkable variety with
bizarre flowers of good size and shape. The
flowers are of an uniform dark-rose colour, but
colour suppression leaves the sepals nearly white
with some slight rose markings and the greater
part of the central portions of the petals also white,
the outer edges mottled with rose. Lip crimped,
dark rose with yellowish disc.

Odontoglossiim Queen Alexandra, var. Carmen
(Harryanum x triumphans), from De B. Craw-
sHAV.Esq., Rosefield, Sevenoaks (gr. Mr. Stables).
The finest and darkest of this handsome cross
which has yet appeared. Sepals and petals heavily
blotched with chestnut-red, the sepals only showing
the yellow ground colour in a few narrow trans-
verse bars at the margins and tip. Base of the lip
dark violet, front white, crest yellowish.

Thunia Marshallianci alba, from Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart., Burford (gr. Mr. W. H. White). A
fine albino of the pretty purplish-lipped species
which was also shown for comparison. Flowers
in nodding racemes pure white with sulphur-
yellow disc to the lip.

Botanical Certificate.

Maxillaria molitor, from Sir Trevor Lawrence,
Bart. A singular and distinct Ecuadorean species,
originally described by the late Professor Reichen-
bach in the Gardeners' Chronicle, August 27, 1887,
p. 242. The habit of the plant is similar to M.
grandiflora. Flowers 2 inches across, the petals
broad, yellowish cream colour, tinged with purple
towards the tips. Petals and lip yellowish, the
latter slightly marked with purple.

HouUetia odoraiissima, var. xanthina, from Sir
Trevor Lawrence, Bart. A pretty, clear yellow
form of the fragrant species, which in the type is
spotted and tinged with purplish red. Lip cream-
white.

Stelismnscifcra, fromSir Trevor Lawence, Bart.
A pretty little species with semi-erect racemes of
many deep-purple flowers.

Cirrhopctaliim .imesianum, from Sir Trevor Law-
rence, Bart. A dwarf Malayan species. Flowers
in umbels, each J inch in length, the cornate lateral
sepals uniting in an ovate blade ; cream-white with
the greater part of the surface spotted and tinged
with rose.

Fruit and Vegetable Committee.

Present: George Bunyard, Esq. (Chairman), and
Messrs. Joseph Cheal, W. Bates, H. Parr, S.
Mortimer, A. Dean, A. R. Allen, W. Pope, R.
Lye, John Basham, George Keif, J. Davis,
P. C. M. Veitch, F. Q. Lane, J. Willard, Owen
Thomas, and W. Poupart.

A collection of vegetables was shown by Miss
M. H. Dodge, Loseley Park, Guildford (gr. Mr.
R. Staward). Included were nice little roots
of Early Gem and Delicacy Carrots, Early Model,
White Milan, and Early Milan Turnips ; very
large "Favourite" Cabbage Lettuce, a variety
described as a cross between Neapolitan and All
the Year Round ; " Red Braes " Cabbage,

apparently a very good, shapely Cabbage, with
remarkably small stem; also tubers of leven
varieties of early Potatos. These v.'eve Mid-
lothian Early, Windsor Castle, Ruby Qu'.en,
Duke of York, Early Balfour, Sharpe's Victor,
and Britannia. The same exhibitor had haulm
with pods of a seedling Pea " James Grieve."

A seedling Melon named Shotesham Park Hero,
was exhibited by Miss Violet Fellowes, Shotes-
ham Park, near Norwich (gr. Mr. Lewis Smith).
It is a white-fleshed variety, of moderate size, and
is described as ripening 10 days earlier than Hero
of Lockinge, in same house.

Mr. C. Foster, showed from the Experimental
Gardens, Reading College, six punnets of Peas in
six varieties. The varieties were May Queen,
Ideal, Early Giant, Dwarf Defiance, Thomas
Laxton and Little Marvel. These were excellent
samples, and the pods of most varieties were per-
fectly filled. Dwarf Defiance appeared to be a
little later than some of the others. Ideal for
instance.

Messrs. R. H. Bath, Ltd., Wisbech, exhibited
fruits of a large, rough-looking Strawberry, named
Kentish Favourite.

MANCHESTER & NORTH OF ENGLAND
ORCHID.

June li. — Present: Messrs. E. Ashworth, A.
Warburton, R. Ashworth, W. B. Upjohn, J.
Cowan, H. Thorp, Z. A. Ward, E. Rogers, A. J.
Keeling, J. E. Williamson, W. Stevens, F. Ashton,
C. Parker, and P. Weathers (hon. sec).

There was only a small display of plants at this
meeting.

A. Warburton, Esq., Haslingden, received an
Award of Merit for Cattleya Mossias, var. Julius
Roerhrs, a white form closely approaching C. M.
var. Wagnerii.

R, Le Doux, Esq., West Derby (gr. Mr. Daven-
port), was awarded a Cultural Certificate for a
handsome specimen of Coelogyne Dayana.

W. Thompson, Esq., Stone (gr. Mr. Stevens),
was awarded a Silver Medal for a nice group,
principally of Odontoglossums, &c.

Mrs. S. Wood, Glossop (gr. Mr. Gould), was also
awarded a Silver Medal for a miscellaneous group.

Philip Smith, Esq., Ashton-on-Mersey (gr. Mr.
Ixitchen), was awarded a Bronze iMedal.

Messrs. A. J. Keeling cS: Son were given a vote
of thanks.

Amongst other exhibits E. Ashworth, Esq.,
exhibited Cattleya Mossis, var. Wagnerii, var.
Queen Alexandra; S. Briggs-Bury, Esq., Cypri-
pedium Lasvrenceanum, var. " Sir Trevor " ; Rlr.
S. Allen, a fine plant of Laelia tenebrosa ; H.
Low& Co., Cattleya Mendeli, var. Colossus. P.W.

RICHMOND HORTICULTURAL.

July 27. — The 32nd annual flower show of
this society was held on the foregoing date in
the Old Deer Park, Richmond. The exhibition
was again a success, the number of entries be-
ing well up to tho standard of former
vears, and considerably in excess of those of
last year. The great feature of last season's
display was the wealth of Roses which almost
filled one large tent, this year, however, the
number of these flowers was considerably
fewer. The grand collection of Orchids staged
by Sir Frederick Wigan was a notable feature,
as was also a magnificent non-competitive
group of flowering plants staged by Messrs. T.
S. Ware, Ltd. In the fruit classes was seen
some splendid produce principally from the gar-
dens of Sir C. Swinfen-Eady.

Groups of Plants.

In the class for a group of plants arranged
for effect three exhibitors contested, the 1st
prize being awarded Sir C. Swinfen-Eadv,
Oatlands Lodge , Weybridge (gr. Mr. James
Lock). The group contained a very large as-
sortment of flowering plants, but it was too
freely overhung with tall sprays of Bamboos,
Humea elegans, Trachelium coeruleum, Bou-
gainvillea, &c. The 2nd prize group was shown
by Mr. H. E. Fordham, Twickenham. This
was an extremely pleasing exhibit. Many well-
grown plants of Gloxinias were used in the
ground work, with Gypsophila paniculata,
species of Lilium and a few Cattleyas and Car-
nations intermingled among suitable foliage
plants.

In the smaller class, occupying an area not
exceeding 60 square feet, were seen five dis-

plays. The best was exhibited by Sir Fked.
Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, Sheen (gr. Mr. C.
Want). This was a tastefully-arranged exhibit,
the background being of Palms, the body of
Hydrangeas and Liliums, with Carnations, Or.
chids, &c., and ornamental foliage plants. 2nd,
C. M. Bartlett, Esq., Uplands, East Sheen,
with an arrangement consisting principally of
foliage plants.

Orchids. — Sir Feed. Wigan, Bart., Clare
Lawn, Upper Sheen (gr. Mr. W. H. Young),
was an easy 1st prize-winner for six exotic Or-
chids. He showed a splendid plant of Lselio-
Cattleya Canhamiana var. "Marguerite." F'-pi-
dendrum prismatocarpum and Cattleya Harri-
soniae were also in fine condition. The same
exhibitor staged a non-competitive group of Or-
chids of much merit.

Mr. H. A. Tracy, Twickenham, showed a
beautiful Cattleya named Mrs. H. Rider Hag-
gard. The petals and sepals are of the purest
Avhite. He also showed a plant of the superb
Cattleya Mossise var. Goodsonse.

Miscellaneous Plants.

The best tuberous-rooting Begonias were
shown by G. Atkins, Esq., Manaton, East
Sheen (gr. Mr. W. Hill). The flowers were al-
most all "singles." 2nd, A. Elsee, Esq., Bur.
lington House, Hampton Hill (gr. Mr. H.
Fleet). By far the best six Caladiums were
shown by C. M. Bartlett, Esq., Uplands,
East Sheen (gr. Mr. H. Hicks).

The premier exhibit of six Ferns was dis-
played by Sir Frederick Wigan. We noticed
magnificent specimens of Davallia Mooreana
and Adianluni Veitchii.

The Earl of Dysart, Ham House, Peter-
sham (gr. Mr. T. F. Conway), easily surpassed
all other competitors in the class for 24 bunches
of hardy herbaceous flowers. Among others
were seen splendid vases of Lysimachia velu-
tina, Alstromerias, and a white Phlox named
Lady Napier.

Roses.

As stated, the displays cf Roses were not com.
parable with those of last year, due, no doubt,
to the untavourable season. In most of the
classes the competition was between the two
famous Colchester firms of Cant.

These two growers contested the largest class
for 48 varieties, three blooms of each variety.
In additio.T to a monetary prize was offered a
silver Cup — ^Icnown as the Gunnersbury Park
Challenge Cup, given by Leopold de Rothschild,
Esq. It was secured by Messrs. Ben. Cant cS:
So.NS, Colchester, whose collection contained
soma remarkably good blcoms, notably those of
Bessie Brown, Joseph Brown (an excellent trio),
Frau Lilla Rautenstanuch, Mad. Cusin, and
Dean Hole. 2nd, Messrs. Fea.xk Cant & Co.,
Colchester.

The smaller class for twenty-four blcoms was
won by Messrs. Frank Cant, who had, among
others, choice examples of Rosmane Gravereaux
and Mons. Paul Lede. 2nd, Messrs. C. & W.
H. Btjech, Peterborough, who showed fine ex-
amples of Mrs. W. J. Grant, Lady Ashiown, and
Dean Hole.

Messrs. Frank Cant also secured the premier
prize for twelve blooms of distinct varieties and
for twelve Tea Roses.

Messrs. Ben. Cant & Sons showed the best
dozen H. P. Roses in the variety Mad. Gabriel
Luizet ; Messrs. Frank Cant following with the
variety Mrs. R. G. Sharman Crawford.

In the Amateur Classes for Roses, the Rev.
J. H. Pemderton, Havering-atte-Bower, beat
all comers. He was an easy 1st prize winner in
the class for twenty-four blooms of distinct
varieties, and for the smaller class for twelve
blooms. He also excelled in tho open class for
twelve bunches of garden Roses having a beau-
titul lot, mostly of single varieties.

Decorative Classes.

As stated, the decorative exhibits were of high
merit. The best dinner table decoration was
arranged by Mr. James Lock (gr. to Sir C.
Swinfen-Eady). The design consisted cf three
epergnes of Orchids.

Mrs. Brewer, Sufl!ield House, Richmondj
staged a charming design in a fancy stand. The
flowers were wholly of Sweet Peas — the laven-
der-coloured Lady Griscl Hamilton, and the
pa'e salmon-pink Duchess of Westminster, an
excellent combination of shades. This lady
also staged a chnrmine basket of these flowers.

June 30, 1906.]

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

427

Messrs. Pekkins & Sons, Coventry, had the
best hand bouquet, while Miss C. B. Cole, The
Vineyard, Feltham, arranged the bsst basJitt of
flowers and fohage.

Fruit and Vegetables.

Although competition was not strong in the
fruit classes some splendid produce was dis-
played. Sir C. Swinfen-Eady carried off most
of the honours. He won the prize for a collec-
tion of six dishes of fruit of distinct kinds,
having large and shapely bunches of Foster's
Seedling and Madresfield Court Grapes, a beau-
tiful dish of Blacli Tartarian Cherries, Dymond
Peach, Dryden Nectarines, and a large Hero of
Lockinge Melon. The priz3 carried with it the
Lady Max Waechter's Challenge Cup. 2nd, the
Earl of Dysart.

The best black Grapes were shown by A.
Benson, Esq., Upper Gatfon Park, Merstham
Igr. Mr. \V. Mancey), and the best white Grapes
by Sir C. Swinfen-Eady, with Foster's Seedling.

A superb dish of Condor Peaches shown by
Messrs. W. & E. 'Wells, Hattonhurst, Houns-
low, won the 1st prize for these fruits, while a
dish of Nectarine Dryden secured a similar
place for the Earl of Dysart in the class for
these fruits. The best Melon was a fruit of
Heru of Lockinge, shown by Mrs. Lewin
Phillips, East Sheen (gr. Mr. Thos. Cooper) ;
and the best Strawberries thos2 shown by Sir
C. Swinfen-Eady, the variety being Royal
Sovereign.

Vegetables. — In these classes were many ex-
hibits of much merit shown by cottagers and
allotment holders.

The open class for a collection of twelve
vegetables saw a keen contest between Sir C.
Swinken-Eady and the Earl of Dysakt, which
resulted in their being placed in the order
named. The 2nd prize collection contained
fome excellent "heads" of Magnum Bonum
Cauliflower.

Col. BoswoETH, Cedar Court, Roehampton
(gr. Mr. C. Bentley) secured Messrs. Carter's
prize for a collection of not fewer than nine
varieties of vegetables.

Non-Competitivk ExHiniTs.

These were numerous and good. Messrs. T. S.
Ware, Ltd., Feltham, occupied a large area in
the largest tent with a fine di..;play of flowering
plants — Kos^s, herbaceous flowers. Pinks, Del-
phiniums, Carnations, Nicotiana hybrids. Bego-
nias, &c.

Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Woking, Sur-
rey, displayed Roses and Sweet Peas. Mr. Chas.
W. Breadmore, Winchester, set up a very large
display of Sweet Peas and a number of hardy
herbacerjus flowers. Mr. Henry Eckford,
Wem, Shropshire, also exhibited Sweet Peas,
having a beautiful display of all the popular
and latest varieties.

Mr. Ernest Pqup.art, Twickenham, displayed
a bank of Sweet Peas in pots.

Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond Nurseries,
Richmond, showed an excellent group of orna-
mental shrubs, interspersed with flowering
plants. "

Messrs. W. Fromow & Sons, Sutton Court
Nursery, Chiswick, staged a large circular group
of ornamental Maples edged with small plants
of Eurya latifolia.

One of the brst non-competitive groups was
arranged by Mr. Wji. Tho.mpson, Sheen Nur-
series, Richmond. The group was circular in
shape. The centre was a light arrangement of
Palms and Acer Negundo, and around were well,
grown plants of Astilbe (Spiraea), Hydrangea
paniculata, tuberous-rooting Begonias, &c., ar-
ranged in a setting of beautiful foliage plants.

Displays of herbaceous flowers were shown by
Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley ; Messrs.
Geo. Bunyard S: Co., Maidstone; and Messrs.
John Peed & Son, West Norwood.

IVEiLIlKflTS.

Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d.

CO VENT GARDEN, June 27.
Cut Flowers, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Madame Auguste van Geert.— The death
at Ghent on the 'i3rd inst. of this lady, in her 81st
year, is announced. Madame van Geert was
the widow of a Ghent nurseryman well known to
many of our readers as the founder of the estab-
lishment over which the much lamented Edouard
Pynaert van Geert presided. The business is
conducted by the family under the sanr.e style.

Anemone, coro-
naria varieties

— fulgens, fl. pi.
Azalea mollis, doz.

bunches
Calla aithiopica,per

dozen

Centaurea cyanus,

doz. bunches...

— suaveolens ...
Coreopsis grandi-

flora, per doz,
bunches
Carnations, per
dozen blooms,
best American
various

— smaller do. ...

— Malmaisons ...
Caltleyas, per doz.

blooms
Eucharis grandi-

flora, per doz.

blooms

Gardenias, per doz.

blooms

Gladiolus, various,

per dz. bnchs..

— The Bride ...
Gypsophila ele-

gans, per doz.
bunches
Iris gernianica, per
bunch

— Spanish, per
doz. bunches...

Ixias

Lilac, per bunch ...
LiUuni auratum ...

— candidum, per
bunch

— lancif oli uni,
ru br um and
album

— lons^itlorum ...
Lily of^he Valley,

p. dz. bunches

— extra quality ...
Marguerites, white,

p. dz. bunches

— yellow, per dz.
bunches

s.d. s.d.

16-30
3 0-40

4 0- G 0
2 6-40

2 0-40

3 0-40

4 0-60

2 0-40
1 0- *J U

3 0-80

S 0-10 0

3 0-40
16-2 0

9 0-12 0
5 0-90

3 0-40

0 9-10

16-30
2 6-40
10-20
2 6-30

16-20

16-26
2 6-40

4 0-80
9 0-12 0

2 0-30

s.d. s.d.

Mignonette, dozen

bunches
Myosotis, per doz.

bunches
Odontoglossum

crispum, per

dozen blooms
Paeonies, per doz.

bunches
Pelargoniums,

show, per doz.

bunches

— Zonal, double
scarlet

Poppies (Iceland),
per dozen
bunches

— Oriental, per
bunch

— Shirley
Pyrethrums, dozen

bunches
Ranunculus, doz.

bunches
Rhodanthe, per dz.

bunches
Roses, 12 blooms,

Niphetos

— Bridesmaid ...

— Kaiserin A.
Victoria

— Caroline Tes-
tout

— C. Mermet ...

— General Jacque-
minot

— Liberty

— Madame Car-
not

— Madame Cbat-
enay 3 0-60

— Mrs. J. Laing 3 0-50
Statice, per dozen

bunches
Stephanotis, per

dozen trusses 3 0-50
Stocks (double

white) per doz.

bunches
Sweet Peas, per

doz. bunches... 16-40

2 0-80

1 fr- 2 0

2 0-26

4 0-50

3 0-50

5 0-60

4 0-50

0 C- 1 0
0 6-09

3 0-60

4 0-60

3 0-40

10-20
2 0-30

2 0-40

3 0-50
16-30

10-20

2 0-60

2 6-30

5 0-8 0

2 0-30

Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices.

Asparagus plu-
mosus, long
trails, per doz.

— — medium,

bunch ...

— — short sprays

per bunch...

— Sprengeri
Adianium cunea-

lum, doz. bun.
Berberis, p. bunch
Croton leaves, per

bunch

Cycas leaves, each
Fern, English, p.

dozen bunches

— French, doz.
bunches

s.d. s.d.

16-20

0 6-09
0 6-10

4 0-60
2 6-30

10-16
16-20

3 0-40

Galax leaves, per
doz. bunches...

Hardy f oli age
(various), per
dozen bunches

Hardy Grasses, per
doz. bunches...

Ivy-leaves, bronze

— long trails per
bundle

— short green,
doz. bunches...

Moss, per gross ...
Myrtle, per dozen

buncoes
Smilax, per dozen

trails ...

s.d. s.d.

2 0-30

16-20

2 0-30
5 0-60

2 0-50
2 0-50

Plants in Pots, &c.: Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d. s.d. s.d

Ampelopsis Veit

chii.per dozen 6 0-80
Ar a lia Sieboldi,

f)er dozen ... 4 0-60
argcr 9 0-12 0

Araucaria escelsa,

per dozen ... 12 0-30 0
Aspidistras, green,

per dozen ... 18 0-30 0

— variegated, per

dozen 30 0-42 0

Asparagus plumo-
sus nanus, doz.

— Sprengeri, doz.

— tenuis simus
per dozen

Begonias (tuber-
ous), per dozen 5 0-80

Boronia elatior, per

dozen 18 0-24 0

Bouvardias.perdz. 6 0-80

Calceolarias, yellow 4 0-60

C hry sautheraum
segetum

Clematis, per doz.

— in flower
C ocos Weddelli-

ana, per dozen 9 0-18 0

Coleus 3 0-50

Crassula, hybrid,

per doz. ... 6 0-90

— larger size ... 18 0-24 0
Crotons, per dozen 12 0-30 0
Cyperus alternifo-

lius, dozen — 4 0-50

— lasus, per doz 4 0-50
Drac^nas, per doz. 9 0-24 0
Erica, per dozen... 24 0-26 0

— ventricosa
magnifica

Euonymus, per dz.

Ferns, in thumbs,

per loo

— in small and
large 60's ... 16 0-25 0

— in4H's,perdoz. 4 0-10 0

— in32's.perdoz. 10 0-18 0

9 0-12 0
6 0-80

8 0-10 0

4 0-90

8 0-90

18 0-24 0

24 0-42 0
4 0-90

7 0-10 0

Ficuselastica,p.dz. 9 0-18 0

— repens.perdoz. 5 0-80
Fuchsias, per doz. 6 0-90
Heliotrope, per dz. 4 0-60
HydrangeaHorten-

sia, per dozen 8 0-18 0

— Thos. Hogg ... 12 0-^4 0

— paniculata ... 12 0-24 0
Kentia Belmore-

ana, per dozen 12 0-18 0

— Forsteriana,

per dozen ... 12 0-21 0
Latania borbonica,

per dozen ... 12 0-18 0
Lilium longiflorum,

per dozen ... 15 0-24 0
— lancifolium,

per dozen ... 18 0-24 0
Lily of the Valley,

per dozen ... 18 0-30 0

Lobelia 4 0-50

Marguerites, white,

per dozen ... 5 0-90

— yellow 15 0-18 0

Mignonette, per

doz

Musk, Harrison's,

per doz.
Pelargoniums

(Zonals), per

dozen

— Ivy-leaved, per
dozen

— show

Petunias, double,

per doz.

— single (in 60's
only)

Rhodanthe, per dz.
Roses, per dozen...
Sasifraga pyrami-

dalis, per doz. 12 0-18 0
Selaginella, dozen 4 0-00
Spiraa japonica,

per dozen ... 5 0-10 0
Verbena, Miss Wi 11-

mott. per doz.. 8 0-12 0

40-6 0
3 0-50

3 0-50

5 0-80
8 0-12 0

5 0-60

16-26
3 0-50
12 0-18 0

Apples:— South
Australian :

— Adams' Pear-
main, per case 10 6-11 0

— Jonathans, per

case 13 0-16 0

— Monro's Fav-
ourite, per case 12 6-13 0

— New York
Pippins, p. case 12 0-13 6

— Rymers, per

case 10 0-U 0

— Vv'elUngtons,p.

case 12 0-14 6

Tasmanian
per case :

— Alexanders ... 9 6-10 0

— Stunners ... 10 6-12 0

— French Crabs.. 9 6-10 G

— Alfristons ... 9 0-10 0

— Sc. Pearmains 10 6-12 6

— Prince Alfreds 11 0 —

— N.Y. Pippins.. 12 0-13 0

— Ro.man Beauty 10 0-12 0
Aprico s (French),

per box
Bananas, bunch ...

— No. 1 quality...

— No. 2 quality...

— Extra quality...

— Giants, per
bunch

— Jimaica

— Loose, per dz.
Cherries (French),

i sieve

h sieve

— boxes

— French, squares 2 0-36

— English,^ sieve 7 0-11 0
Figs, per dozen ...
Grapes (English),

Black Hambro,
per lb

— Alicante

— Colraars

— English, Mus-
cat, perlb. ...

Gooseberries (Eng-
lish), ^ sieve ... 3 0-46
Lemons :

— Messina, case 13 G-20 0

— Naples, p. case 30 0-40 0

0 7-10

7 0-90
0 0-70

8 6-10 0

11 0-13 0
4 6-60
0 8-13

3 6-6 6
7 0-14 0
10-20

2 0-80

0 10- 1 6
13-19

16-20

16-40

s.d. s.d.
Lychees, perbox... 0 10- 1 0
Melons, each ... 10-30
Nectarines, English 2 6-12 0
Nuts, Cobnuts, per
doz. lb

— Brazils, new
per cwt.

— Spanish, p. ba^^

— Barcelona, per
bag

— Monkey Nuts,
per bag

— Walnuts.dried
cwt

—Chestnuts, Italian,

per bag .T. 13 6-15 0

— Cocoanuts, 100 10 6-13 6
Oranges, Valentia,

per case

— Murcia

— Navel

— Jamaica

— Blood

Peaches (English),

per dozen
Pears, stewing
varieties, per *
bushel 2 6-30

— stewing, crate 10 6 —
Tasmanian and
Australian

Pears, p. tray :

— V^inter Nells ..

— Glou Morceau

— Vicar of Wake-
field

— Bergamotte ...

— Beurre Diel ...

— Easter Beurre
Pineapples, each ...
Plums (Cape), per

box

— French, p. box
Raspberries, per

putt

Strawberries,
punneits

— French, crates
(4 baskets) ...

— French, crates
[10 baskets) ...

— Southampton,
per basket

80

45 0-48 0

42 0-43 0

24 6 —
18 0 —

. 35 0

20 0-32 0

10 0-16 0

11 0-12 6
10 6-11 0

9 6-11 6

2 6-15 0

4 0-10 0
7 0-90

5 0-80

2 6 —

3 0-40

6 0 —
2 9-46

10 0 —
0 6-09

2 0 —

0 6-09

7 6-10 0

8 0-10 0

10-20

Vegetables : Average Wholesale Prices.

s.d. s.d. j

Artichokes, Green

French, p. doz.
Asparagus, per

bundle ; —

— English, per
bundle

Beans, French, p. lb.

— Broad, perpkt.

— Broad (Eng-
lish), per bush.

— Broad, per pad
(loose)

— Flageolet, box

— Home grown,
per lb ..

— French, p. pad

— French, per ^
sieve

— Channellsland
Beetroot, bushel ...
Broccoli, sprout-
ing, per bushel

— per doz.
Cabbages, Spring,

per bag

— red, per bushel
Carrots, French pad 3 0

— per bag, un-
washed

— per dz. bnchs.,
washed

— new, per dozen
bunches

Cauliflowers, per
tally

Chow Chow, p. dz.

Cucumbers, dozen

Endive, per dozen

Horseradish, for-
eign, per dozen
bundles ... 20 0-24 0

Leeks, 12 bundles 16-30

Lettuces, Cos, per

dozen 2 0 —

— French, per dz. 0 11- 1 0

10-36

10-26

0 4 —
0 6 —

2 6 —

2 0-26
10 —

0 3-06
2 0-30

2 6-40
0 8 —
10 —

16-19

10-20

2 6 —

16-20

2 0-30
16 —
5 0 —

3 0-10 0
16-30
2 0-26
0 9-10

s.d. s.d.
16-20
2 0-30

Marrows, per doz.

Mint, per dozen ...

Mushrooms(house)

per lb

— Buttons, per lb.
Mustardand Cress,

per dozen pun.
Onions (Egyptian),
bag

— pickling, per
bushel

— French, ^ bag..

— Spring, dozen
bunches

Parsley, 12 bunches
Peas (French flats)

— English, per
bushel

Potatos (new) : —

Canary, cwt.... 13 0-15 0

— Channel Island
Kidneys ... 0 2J- 0 3

— Jersey, cwt. ... 7 0 —

— St. Malo, cwt. 6 6 —

— Lisbons.p.case
Rhubarb, per doz.

bundles
Spring greens, per

bushel

Salsafy, per dozen

bundles
Tomatos : —

— English, per lb.

— per doz. lbs. ...

— small selected

— Seconds, per
12 lbs

Turnips, per doz.
bunches

— bags

— new, per dozen
bunches

TurnipTops, bush.

Watercress, per

doz. bunches ..

0 8-10
0 8-10

10-16

4 6 —

3 6-40

2 3 —

10-16
10-16

3 0-60

40 _

4 0 —

2 6 —

13 —

4 0 —

5 6-60
4 6-50
4 0-46

3 0 —

10-16
10 —

3 0-40
10-16

0 4

Remarks. — English and foreign Cherries are dearer.
English Tomatos are firm in price but likely to become
cheaper towards the end of the week. Nectarines are
plentiful, but Peaches are somewhat scarce. English Figs
are still scarce, but a few good fruits are arriving from the
Channel Islands. English hot-house Marrows are lower in
price owing to a good daily supply of outdoor stuff, which
can be bought at Is. 6d. to 3s. per dozen. Trade generally is
good. E. H, Rides, Covent Garden, June 27, 1906.

Potatos.

Lincolns, 50s. to 60s. ; Dunbars, 100s. ; best Scotch, 75s. to

80s. ; Jerseys, 7s. to 7s. 6d. ; St. Malo, 6s. 6d. to 7s. ; Cher-

bourgs, 63, to 6s. 6d. ; Lisbons, 3s. per case.—JoJin Bath, 32

aiuiJ4, Wellington Street, Covent Garden.

COVENT GARDEN FLOWER MARKET.

The trade for flowering plants is now falling off, but
supplies remain abundant. Well-flowered plants of the
Rambling Rose Dorothy Perkins, in 48's, were making from
2s. 6d. to 3s. 6d. each. Hydrangeas are not now quite so
abui daat. Crassulas (Kalosanthes) in several shades of
colour are seen, and I noted goodjilants of K. jasminsflora,
also coccinea, but it is the hybrid varieties that are most
extensively grown, Verbenas are now better again, and we are

45i»

THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE.

[June 30, 1906.

getting the pure white variety " Snowflake " in good plants
from Mr. Sweet. Lilium longiflorum is good from several
growers, and there are some good L. lancifolium rulrum
and L. 1. album. Show, Zonal, and Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums
are plentiful in well-flowered plants ; good Mignonette is
not quite so common now. Saxifraga pyramidalis is still
good, and there are good plants of Erica ventricosa
magnifica still for sale. White and yellow Marguerites are
very good. Fuchsias are fairly good. Some nice standards,
with stems about 3feet in length, are seen. Spirasa japonica
and other varieties, and Heliotropiunis, in both light and dark
varieties, are good. Some very fine tuberous Begonias, in
43's and 60's, are seen, but the trade for them has not been
so good as usual this season. In foliage plants there is but
little variation.

Cut Flowers.
Irises are still very prominent, and we are now getting
some of the best English (I. xiphioides) varieties; the
Spanish varieties are nearly over. Poppies are good, in-
cluding the Iceland, Oriental and Shirley varieties. Sweet
Peas are over abundant, and with the hot weather there is a
good deal of waste. Carnations of American varieties and
Souvenir de la Malmaison are over plentiful, and with the
low prices there is no profit on these. Two growers have
expressed their intention of giving up their cultivation. Roses
have been selling a little better perhaps, but supplies are still
in excess of all demands, and now that Strawberries are in
there is much less trade for flowers in the streets. Pseonies
and Pyrethrums are arriving in immense quantities. The
fiouble white Ranunculuses from Holland are very pretty.
Lilium longiflorum and L. lancifolium are down to th3
lowest ebb in prices now. Campanula persicifolia, both
blue and white, when cut before they are too far advanced,
last fairly well. Gladiolus Colvillei, in several varieties, are
-^ood. Sweet Sultan (Centaurea suaveolens) is now coming
m, and those who understand that the flowers must be kept
drj[, find they last very well. Coreopsis grandiflora and
Gaillardias are seen Double scarlet Pelargonium seems
much less in demand than formerly. Sleplianotis, Gar-
Senias, Tuberoses and other short-stemmed flowers are
n excess of demands. A, H., Covent Garden Market^
'une 27, 1906.

THE WEATHER.

The Following Summ.\ky Record of the
weather throughout the British Islands, for the
week ending June 23, is furnished from the
Meteorological Office : —

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.

The general character of the weather was fine and brigh
over the southern and eastern districts, but unsettled in
the west and north, with fijquent falls of rain in Ireland.
Thunderstorms were experienced in the Midlands and north-
west of England on Sunday, and on the south coast of Kent
•on Friday, while during the night of Saturday sharp thunder-
storms, accompanied by considerable quantities of rain, were
very general over England.

The temperature exceeded the average in all districts, the
■excess being greatest, 3-7" in Scotland N. and least, 04'^ in
England S.W. The highest of tlie maxima occurred most
■commonly during the latter half of the week, and were as
high as 81" in England S. and the Midland Counties, and 73°
in England E. and N.E. Elsewhere they ranged from 78''
dn England N.W. and the Channel Islands to 72° in Ireland
N. The minima were rather low during the earlier days of
•the week, but subsequently became high. The lowest
^readings varied from 31)* in England S. and S.W. to 44° in
the Channel Islands and England N.E., and to 49' in
■Ireland S-

The rainfall was considerably in excess of the average in
Ireland, and slightly in excess in England S.W. and N.E.
In England N.W, the amount was in close agreement with
ilie normal, while in other districts there was a deficiency.

'V\ve bright sunshine exceeded the average in the eastern,
■;entral, and southern parts of England, and also in Scotland
v., but was deficient in all other districts. The percentage
)f the possible duration ranged from 6li in England S. and
»8 in England E., to 25 in Scotland W., and to a little below
a) in the Irish districts.

THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS.
A warm and dry week.- On each day and night of the past
week the weather has been more or less warm for the time
^f year. On the warmest day the temperature in the ther-
■mometer screen rose to 78*, which is slightly higher than
■the previous warmest during the present summer. On the
-warmest night the thermometer exposed on the lawn did
■not fall lower than 54°, which is a high night reading for
June. The ground is at the present time about V warmer
than is seasonable, both at 1 and 2 feet deep. There
\vas a slight fall of rain on one day, otherwise the last 10
■days have been perfectly dry. There has been no measurable
percolation through the bare soil gauge for over three weeks.
The sun shone on an average for seven hours a day during
■the past week, or for three-quarters of an hour a day longer
■than is usual at this season. After three weeks of calm
weather there came a change on the 24th to light south-
westerly winds. There was about a seasonable amount of
moisture in the air at 3 p.m. E. M., Berkhamsted. June Z7 ,
■1906.

GARDENING APPOINTMENTS.

:Wr. Henry Butcher, until lately Gardener to Sir Wm.

Cooke, Bart., Wheatley Park, Doncaster, as Gardener

at Upper Hall^ Ledbury, Herefordshire, w:th the same

gentleman.
^Ir. G. Osborn, late Gardener to F. Austin, Esq., Orchard

Court, Hook, Surbiton, Surrey, as Gardener to H.

TwYFORD, Esq., Sunney Bank, Helper, Derbyshire.

ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS.

Advertisement : J. C. The attention of the
advertisement manager shall be called to the
matter. Can you furnish names and dates,
otherwise it may be difficult to trace the trans-
aqtiou ?

Bamboos : A. C. S. None of the Bamboos men-
tioned requires a very shaded position except
A. nitida which likes shade, especially about
mid-day in summer. All the others may be
grown m full sunlight or where they are shaded
during part of the day only. Watering with
weak manure water occasionally is decidedly
beneficial to established plants. If this be too
troublesome, a top .pressing of 4 to G inches of
rotted manure should be applied. An important
element in the cultivation of Bamboos is the
provision of shelter from north and east winds.

British Gardeners' Association : H. C, Bechni-
liam. You have overlooked the advertisements
as well as the numerous announcements that have
been made in these columns. The secretary is
John Weathers, Talbot Villa, Talbot Road,
Isleworth, Middlesex.

Budding of Roses: Anxious. Procure a copy of
The Calendar of Gaidm Operations from the
publisher of this journal, price 7id. post free.
On pages 48 and 4y the process is explained and
illustrated.

Carnation: G. Clarke. There is no evidence of
disease. The injury is due entirely to the
Carnation maggot.

Cucumber : R. L. P. There being no evidence
of fungoid or other disease, it would appear
that the failure is brought about by something
in the method of cultivation. Is your soil
suitable and free from excessive quantities of
manures ? Is the atmosphere of the house kept
sweet ?

Ellam's Cabbage : Ellams. There is little doubt
but that some stocks are truer than others, but
we cannot recommend individual firms : you
might get seeds from several, and determine for
yourself which are most satisfactory.

Flannel Flower : F. G. The flower sent by
you, and described as the Australian Flannel
flower, is Actinotus Helianthi.

Foxglove : X. Campanulate Foxgloves are by
no means uncommon and have often been figured
in our columns. It is a result of the fusion of
the topmost flowers into a cup-like mass with
other consequent changes — but what causes the
change we do not know.

Frogs in Wine Cellar: E. B. If you make
the cellar secure against frogs getting into the
cellar from out of doors, and remove the frogs
that can be caught in the cellar itself, you ought
to be able to get rid of them. If frogs are so
unusually Iroublesome, the cellar is surely very
damp.

Funnel on Cabbage Leaf : F. C. The unusual
funnel-like growth is due to a union of the tissue
in the early stages, which is continued as the leaf
developes. We gave an illustration of a similar
leaf as far back as our issue for December 8,
1849. We receive one or more such leaves
every season.

Grape Spot ; H. B.. Bognor. J. M., and U'.G.IV.
The berries are affected with the " spot ' ' disease —
Gloeosporium ampelophagum. Cutout and burn
the injured berries and spray the remaining ones
with liver of sulphur — | ounce to 2 gallons of
water.

Grapes: Dulwich. Apparently infested with a
fungus, but too dried and shrivelled to diagnose
properly. Please send other specimens packed
in damp moss. — W. D. The berries are shanking,
and this condition is one affected by cultivation.
It frequently happens when the roots are grow-
ing in an unsuitable soil. Excessively strong
liquid manures will be likely to cause shanking
owing to the check the vines would suffer from
its use.

LiLiuMS FROM the AZORES: S. F. &■ Co. We
believe that a white Lily, which is perhaps a
variety of Lilium longiflorum, is being imported
from the Azores by Mr. Thomas Rochford, and
possibly other market salesmen. We have not
seen the flowers.

LiNNEAN Society : IF. F. G. Apply to the
secretary of the Society at Burlington House,
Piccadilly, London, W., for particulars as to
subscriptions, mode of election, &c.

Names OF Plants: J. R. Muscari comosum. —
A.Y.L. 1, D^ndrobium stuposum ; 2, lonopsis
utricularioides. — Rip. Trachelium coeruleum.
— E.B. 1, Polygonum Baldschuanicum ; 2,
Thalictrum (send foliage) ; 3, Tradescantia vir-
ginica ; 4, Cornus mas variegata ; 5, Stachys
lanata ; 6. Geranium pratense ; 7, Oxalis

species ; 8, Campanula glomerata. — /. /. F.
Veronica Andersoni, or one of the hybrids from
it. — /. \V., Cardiff. 1, Calceolaria rugosa : 2,
Calceolaria, hybrid bedding variety ; 3. Trades-
cantia virginica ; 4, Aquilegia seedling ; 5,
Aquilegia canadensis ; 6, Campanula puUa ;
7, Verbascum sp. ; 8, Verbascum sp. ; 9, Iris
aurea ; 10, A seedling Iris; 11, Iris ochroleuca;
12, Anthericnm liliago. — Enquirer. 1, Heme-
rocallis flava ; 2, Kerria japonica. — A.F. 1,
Spir^a filipendula ; 2, Sidalcea malvaeflora. —
Clark Bros. Ornithopus perpusillus. — R.A.A.
1, Symphytum officinale ; 2, Dendrobium
thyrsiflorum ; 3, Polygonum complexum : 4,
Santolina Chamaecyparissus. — Fenstanton. Cat-
tleyaMendeli. — V . A . R. 1, Pleurothalliselacho-
pus ; 2, Octomeria diaphana ; 3, Pleurothallis
macroblepharis ; 4, lonopsis paniculata ; 5,
Sibthorpia europasa ; 6, Begonia Dregei. —
/. IF. B. A light-coloured form of Cattleya
Mendeli. — A. M. Lapeyrousia cruenta syn.
Anomatheca cruenta, a Cape Irid. — S. Gillenia
tritoliata. — T. A. 1, Pteris tremula ; 2, Adian-
tum formosum ; 3, Selaginella umbrosa ; 4,
Asplenium lucidura ; 5, Cyrtomium falcatum.
— H. J. E. Bignonia Cherere (see Bot. Reg.,
Vol. XV., t. 1:^01).— IF. N. You send more
than six ; our time is precious. 1, Veronica
Teucrium ; 2, Saxifraga geum; 3, Carduus, not re-
cognised; 4. Helianthemum vulgare ; 5,Bocconia
cordata ; 6, Linaria cymbalaria ; 7, Asperula
odoiata ; 8, Valeriana officinalis ; 9, Pulmo-
naria officinalis; 10, Vicia sepium ; II. Seduro
album; 12, Sedum lydium. — A. H. Cephala;.<t
tatarica.

Nectarines: A. P. There is no trace of fungus
or other organism that would account for the
gumming. It is likely that the gumming has
been provoked by injury of some nature, such
as the puncture ot insect, &c. In any case it will
be well to look at the roots in the autumn, giv-
ing them a fresh medium and one that is not
likely to induce very vigorous growth.

Peas : W. G. Your Peas appear to be attacked
with the Pea mildew. Water freely, and apply
a mulching of manure directly afterwards.

Planes: A. M. It is not unusual for Planes to
drop some of their leaves, but yours seem to
be attacked with a fungus also The drainage
may have been increased by the building you
mention. We will report more fully later on.

Potato Disease : Enquirer. Two plans are open
to you to prevent this disease — either to bank
up the soil on either side of the haulm, and
to bend over the tops to one side, taking care
not to break them, or to spray thoroughly with
Bordeaux mixture now, and to repeat the spray-
ing in a fortnight's time and again after the
expiration of a fortnight. We advise you lo
begin these operations at once, before the disease
appears, and so prevent it doing mischief, but if
you must wait till the disease appears you can
still save a portion of the crop by either of the
methods we have mentioned, but remember that
prevention is much better than cure.

Repton : IF. t. B. We are not aware of any
recent edition.

Ribes : T. IF. We think there must have been
some mistake in supposing the plant to have
been a sport from R. sangumeum. The leaves
you send are more like those of liibes alpinum
var. foliis aureis.

Rose Disease: jf.C. The leaves are infected
with a fungus — Actinonema rosae. Spraying
with solution of potassium sulphide is the best
remedv. Collect and burn all diseased leaves
in autumn.

Situation in Canada : C. W. Insert an adver-
tisement in this paper or in The Canadian Horti-
culturist, published in Toronto.

Spring Water: A. G. S. If the water does not
contain an excessive quantity of lime and is not
therefore "hard," it requires nothing further
than the treatment it is now given, the exposure
in a tub or tank being very beneficial. If on
the contrary it is hard, then it might be well to
add more lime which will have the effect of
throwing down the lime already contained in
the water.

Table Decorations : IF. Trcscder. If you read
our report again, you will see that we stateii the
medal was a " Silver Flora," as you describe it.

Communications Received.— R. L.— M Cogniaux -The
Garten Welt— H. J. C— I. W.-T. W.-Lord L.— H.
Eckford— S. M. B.— I. G.-W. T.— A. M.— J. Mc — H. D
— T. K.-D. A. F. Boskoop— H. E.— W. H. B.— H. A. S.
Wistaria— ]. H.-S. A.— J.*.-A. D.-F. M.— I. 1.