LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE souRc^LciJ_le.o_e J?u-r)-ds_. v. S7 ;■ June 36, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE # tDeeklg Ollustrateb Journal HORTICULTURE AND ALLIED SUBJECTS. (ESTABLISHED IN 1841.) VOL. LVIL— THIRD SERIES. JANUARY TO JUNE, 1915. LONDON : 41, WELLINGTON STREET, COVENT GARDEN, W.C 1915- % The Gardeners' Chronicle.] J.JVNE 26, 1915. INDEX OF CONTENTS. JANUARY TO JUNE, 1915. (For Special Headings see under Books ; Certificates ; Law Notes ; Nursery Notes ; Obituary ; Plant Portraits ; Plants, New ; Scientific Committee ; Societies ; and Illustrations.) Aberdeen, forestry at, 153 Abies nobilis plantation at Durris, 165 Aciphylla Traversii, 34 Acnistus Miersii, 58 Agricultural problems, 84 Agriculture in Canada, 19 Agriculture seventy years ago, 80 Alkaloid content ,of Belladonna plants, the, 168 Allium vineale, eradication of, 130 Almond, the flowering of the, 137 Alpines for town gardens, 182 Amelanchier canadensis, economic properties of, 148 America, business in, 3 ; Carnation growing in, 133 ; classification of Dahlias in, 185 ; German seeds in, 198 ; rock gardens in, 298 ; Sweet Pea Society in, 32, 57 American gardens, New Zealand plants for, 112 American Gooseberry mildew, 237 American Hawthorns, new ar- borescent species of, 321 American notes, 3, 127, 146, 232, 266, 292 Ammonia washes, 266, 317 Anacyclus formosus, 300 Anderson, Mr. Robert, resignation of, 137 Anderson, Private J., 298 Anemone blanda, 171, 245; A. b. Ingramii as a pot plant, 137 Angraecum fimbriatum, 144 Aphis, the Apple, 208, 213, 218 Apiary, the, 29, 55, 83, 111, 151, 181, 233, 251 Apple, bitter-TOt of, 313 Apple tree, canker in, 21, 312; the yield of an, 87 Apples, American crops of, 7 ; flowering and fruiting of, 71 ; for amateurs, 60 ; Russian varieties of, 42, 60, 79, 115; selections of, 20, 34, 46, 71 ; self- rooting varieties of, 115, 127, 139 ; spotting of, 39. 80, 102, 115, 127, 157; the R.H.S. Fruit Com- mittee test of, 128 Apples and Plums, self-rooting varieties of, 115 Apples Blenheim Pippin and The Houblon, 40 Arbutus Unedo, economic pro- perties of, 179 Arctostaphylos Uva-ursi, economic properties of, 179 Arnold Arboretum, notes from the, 292 Amott, Mr. S., 250 Arsenical sprays and bees, 315 Asparagus, French, 340 ; giant, 266 Atropa Belladonna, the alkaloid content of, 168 Australia, the flora of Southern, 172, 189, 202 Austrian Briars, 37. 101 Avondale Forestry Station, 77, 102, 128 Azaleas at Wisley, 292 Bailey, L. H. (The Principles of Fruit Growing), 298, 326 Bamboo, the flowering of the, 44 Barbey, the late William, 184 Basic slag, properties of, 250 Batley, Mr. G., resignation of, 100 Bean, W. J. (Trees and Shrubs Hardy in the British Isles), 6 Beans, black fly of, 32 ; Haricot and French, 157 Beech leaves, causes for their late- ness, 36 Bees and arsenical sprays, 315 Bees, the management of, 29, 55, 83, 111, 151, 181, 233, 251 Begonia Mts. John Heal, 232; B. Scarlet Beauty, 18 Begonias, trial of winter-flowering, 314 Belgian horticulturists, R.H.S. Orchid Committee's proposal to assist, 101, 125 Belgian refugees, work for, 251 Belgium, agricultural restoration of, 69 ; news from, 236 ; popula- tion of, 100. Belladonna plants, the alkaloid con- tent of, 168 Benary, Mr., 211 Benevolent Institution, Gardeners' Royal, 49, (annual meeting) 60 ; appeal for help for the, 153, 344 Bennett, Arthur (The Potamo- getons of the British Isles), 293 Berberis Darwinii, 157 ; B. vul- garis, economic properties of, 147 Berry-bearing shrubs in winter, 10 Birds, and bud-eating, 155 ; as carriers of fungus spores, 185 Bitter-rot of Apples, 313 Blossom, the protection of, 111, 157 Books, Notices of. — A Manual of Weeds (Ada Georgia), 3; A Pocket Synopsis of the Families of British Flowering Plants ( W. B. Grove), 178; Climbing Plants (W. Watson), 558; Crop Pest Hand- book for Behar and Orissa, 27 ; Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden . Guild Journal, 57, 102; Every Woman's Flower Garden (Mary Hampden), 255, 293; Flora of Formosa, (B. Hayata), 260; Flora of Jamaica, Vol. III. (William Fawceit and Alfred Barton Rendle), 7 ; Home Landscapes (W. Robinson), 44; Hooker's Icones Plantarum, 308 ; Inorganic Plant Poisons and Sti- mulants (Winifred E. Brenchley), 69, 293 ; Journal Kept by David Douglas During his Travels in North America, 1823-1827 (Royal Horticultural Society), 75; Journal of the R.H.S. Gardens Club (John Fraser), 235; Kew Guild Journal, 125; Le Bon Jardinier, 65; Le Jardin, 155 ; Makers of Modern Agriculture (William Macdonald), 259; Notes from the Royal Botanic Garden, Edin- burgh, 246; Plant Life (Charles A. Hall), 358; Practical Tree Re- pair (Elbert Peels), 347; Publica- tions received, 7, 32, 44, 69, 87, 113, 125, 155, 185, 198, 211, 237, 255, 264, 280, 298, 315, 347, 358; Re- cords of the Botanical Survey of India, 340 ; Rothamsted Annual Report, 262; Systematic Cropping of Vegetable Gardens (A. S. Gait), 264; Sweet Pea Annual, 69 ; Sweet Peas and Antirrhinums (William Cuthbertson), 178; The Book of Hardv Flowers (H. H. Thomas), 255, '308; The Botanical Maga- zine, 32, 113, 154, 237, 298, 346; The British Cambridge Flora, Vol. II. (C. E. Moss), 119; The Dahlia Year-Book, 185; The De- termination of Sex (L. Don- caster), 222; The Effects of Radio-Active Ores and Residues on Plant Life (Martin F. Sutton), 185 ; The Egyptian Horticultural Review, 184; The Evolution of Sex in Plants (John Merle Coulter), 255; The Garden Magazine, 184 ; The Genus Pinus (George Russell Shaw), 196 ; The Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, 10; The Mutation Factor in Evolution, with particular reference to Oeno- thera (R. Ruggles Gates), 358; The Potamogetons of the British Isles (A. Fryer, A. Bennett, and A. H. Evans), 293; The Prin- ciples of Fruit Growing (L. H. Bailey), 298, 326; The Rose Annual, 250 ; The Story of Plant Life in the British Isles (A. R. Horwood), 293; the Well Con- sidered Garden (Mrs. Francis King), 298; Transpiration and the Ascent of Sap in Plants (H. H. Dixon), 340; Trees: a Woodland Notebook (Sir Herbert Maxwell), 308 ; Trees and Shrubs Hardy in the British Isles (W. J. Bean), 6 Bordeaux mixture and leaf-scorch- ing, 18 ; copper sulphate for, in Italy, 113 Borthwick, Dr. A. W., appoint- ment of, 263 Botanic Gardens, the Royal, im- provements in, 280 Brasso-Cattleya Cliftonii albens, 108; B.-C." Menda, 144; B.-C. Vanessa, 132 Brazil, flower and garden seeds in, 137 Brenchley, Winifred E. (Inorganic Plant Poisons and Stimulants), 69, 293 Briar pipes, wood for, 250 Briars, hybrid Austrian, 37 British Guiana, vegetables in, 58 Brockweir House, Daffodils at, 275 Brussels, correspondence from, 125 Brussels Sprouts, the forcing of, 77 Buddleia globosa, 94 Bulb garden, the, 96. 275, 290 Bulbophyllum appendiculatum, 38; B. Binnendiikii, 38; B. cirrho- petalum, 38 ; B. dichromum, 177; B. mirum. 38 Bunyard, Mr. George, presentation to, 69 Bunyard, Mr. Harry A., appoint- ment of, 19 Burrows, Mr. G., appointment of, 69 Cacti in pots, treatment of, 304 Calcium cyanamide. 58 Calypso borealis, 192 Campanula Allionii, 338 Canada, trade with, 179 Canadian agriculture. 19 Canker, in Apple trees, 21 ; in Larch, 43, 88. 128 Cannonading, the effect of, on rainfall, 88 Cardiff parks, new chief officer of, 137 Carnation cuttings, 133 Carnation-growing in America, 133 Carnations, leaf-cuttings of, 77, 127 Catch-crops, the importance of, 250 Caterpillars on the Whitethorn, 358 Cattleya amethystoglossa, 144; C. Mendelii Bedford's var., 354; C. Trianae at Westonbirt, 192 Cauliflowers, contraband goods in, 113 Cauliflowers in pots, treatment of, 77 Cautley, Major W. O., awarded D.S.O., 154; killed in action, 279 Cecidomyia salicis, causing galls on Willow, 130 Celery, bacterial rot of, 169; cul- tivation of, 294 ; main crop of, 207 Centenary of Edward Forbes, the, 112 Certificated Plants* : Anemone rupicola, 282 ; Aster alpinus Nancy Perry, 333 ; Auricula Edenside, 214 ; A. Dent Blanche, 242; A. Kaffir, 242; Brasso- Cattleya BTenda Ashlands var., 117; B.-C. Cliftonii albens, 47; B.-C. Cliftonii Fowler's var., 240; B.-C. Cliftonii var. .Sir John French, 158; B.-C. Digbyano-Schroderae Shrubbery var., 129; B.-C. Eileen, 36; B.-C. Joan, 269; B.-C. Vil- moriniana Shrubbery var., 240; Carnations : Bookham Clove, 282; Daisy Walker, 282; Good Cheer, 158; Mrs. G. Lloyd Wigg, 188; Norah West, 216; Cattleya Brenda, 255; C. Lady Joffre, 11 ; C. Leeda var. Walton Grange, 36 ; C Men- delii- Fascination. 350: C. M. King Albert. 350; C. Mossiae alba var. Mrs. R. le Doux, 350; C. M. Mrs. Bernal Bagshaw, 269; C. M. Magella Sander, 350; C. M. Mammoth. 269; C. M. Reineckiana Marlfield var., 350 ; C. M. Wageneri Ashlands var., 350; C. Murillo, 11; C. Olympus, 129 ; C. Percival- liana King of the Belgians, 92 ; C. Schroderae var. Distinc- tion, 202; H. S. var. Queen Elizabeth. 255; C. Tityus Rex. 287; C. Trianae alba Queen Elizabeth, 72: C. T. alba var. Snowflake. 117: C. Warneri alba Memoria A. C. Madoux. 350 ; Ceanothus rigidns, 268 ; Clematis aphylla, 268: Coe- logyne burfordense. 269 ; Conan- thera campanulata. 360; Coty- ledon simplicifolia. 333 : Crocus biflorus Alexandri. 104; C. biflorus Lemon Queen, 104 : C. Imperati albiflos, 104: Crocuses : Jupiter. 173 ; Kath- leen P.irlow. 173: Mikado. 173; Pallas. 173: White Lady, 173: Cymbidium Alexander] niWllum,' 36; C. Coningsby- aniun var. Brockhurst, 23: C. Sanderi var. alba. 242; C. Schlegelii Fowler's var., 104; Cypripedium Actaeus Palatine, 36 ; C. Alabaster var. Walton Grange, 36 ; C. Arthurianum • For awards bv the Dutch Bulb Growers' Society, tea pp. 173. 819. IV The Gardeners' Chronicle.] INDEX. [June 26, 1915. var. Langley, 23; C. aureum Hyeanum Goliath, 141; C. a. H. Thompson's var., 117; C. Bessie, 36; C. Britannia, 141; C. Christopher var. Grand Duke Nicholas, 23 ; C. Curtisii San- derae, 334 ; C. Daisy Barclay var. nigrum, 159 ; C. Desdemona Haddon House var., 141; C. Duke of Connaught Ward's var., 11 : C. eboriaouin GTatrixia*, 36 ; C. Euryades var. Rex, 92 ; C. Eve var. Walton Grange, 11 ; C. Grand Duke, 36 ; C. Hassallii var. St. Mary, 48; C. Idina Lee's var., 36; C. King Albert, 11; C. Lady Evelyn James, 48; ■ C. Lathamianum var. Cardinal Mercier, 48 ; C. Longford Hall, 92; C. Lord Fisher, 117; C. Mars, 11 ; C. Melas, 11 ; C. Mrs. Arkle, 92; C. nobilior, 92; C. Pyranus Chardwar Ideal, 23 ; C. Queen of the Belgians, 11 ; C. X Richmond, 48 ; C. Rossettii var. Mary Gratrix, 242; C. Sanac- derae var. Ethel, 11 ; C. Vashtii, 36 ; C. waltonense rubrum, 255 ; Daphne arbuscula, 268 ; Del- phinium venustum, 333; Dendro- bium x Thompsonii, 202; D. Thwaitesiae Veitoh's var., 242; D. Triumph, 47 ; Dianthus neg- lectus Aurora, 332 ; D. wood- fordiensis 333 ; Disa Blackii, 287 ; Forsythia intermedia spectabilis, 188 ; Hyacinths : Georgius, 173; Golden Sheaves, 173 ; Josine, 173 ; Myosotds, 173; Netty, 173; Red Star, 173; Trans, 173; Hydrangea Radiant. 240; Iris Lohengrin, 332; I. Lord of June, 332; I. Rotherside Masterpiece, 332 ; I. Sind-pur, 173 ; Laelio-Cattleya Anaconda. 268; L.-C. Britannia var. Melaine, 242; L.-C. Cowanii Ashlands var., 350; L.-C. Fasci- nator var. Mermaid, 350; L.-C. Fascinator-Mossiae var. Imogene, 269; L.-C. x Gold Star 287; L.-C. x Helius, 287; L.-C. Isabel Sander Gatton Park var., 240; L.-C. J. F. Birk- beck Fowler's var., 188; L.-C. Lucasiana var atro-purpurea, 159; L.-C. McBeaniana, 269; L.- C. nana. 214; L.-C. Sibyl Low's var., 287; L.-C. Transyl- vania, 287; L.-C. waltonen- sis, 92; Lewisia columbiana, 262; Lonicera Griffithii. 301; L. Maackii, 333 ; Lycaste Janet Ross. 158; L. la'nipes, 269; Masdevallia Chamber- lainiana, 255; Maxillaria San- deriana, 350; Micromeles Fol- queri, 333; Miltonia Bleuana Hessle var., 255; M. EuTydice, 269; M. Hyeana Ashlands var., 350; M. H. F. M. Ogilvie, 287; M. H. Walton Grange var., 255; M. Mrs. Geoff Taite, 255 ; M. Orpheus, 269 ; Narcissus Alice Knights, 159; N. Bath's Flame, 215; N. Caedmon, 228; N. Carnival, 228; N. Chryse, 215; N. Distich, 241; N. Felspar, 228; N. Marseillaise, 241; N. Mary Copeland, 241; N. Mozart, 228 ; N. Vega, 228 ; N. White Em- peror, 228 ; N. White King, 241 ; Odontioda Bleuana albens, 269 ; O. Bradshawiae Ashlands var., 159; 0. B. Walton Grange var., 202 ; O. ■ Brewii var. Black Knight, 269; 0. B. var. Leeana, 255 ; 0. Colmaniae, 287 ; 0. Diana magndfica, 269 ; O. D. Ashlands var., 36; O. Grairiana Walton Grange var., 269; O. H. Worsley, 269; 0. Illustris, 269 ; 0. Irene walton- ense, 269; 0. Joan, 255; 0. Lanubeauiana, 287 ; 0. lumi- nosa, 242; 0. Madeline var. Queen Elizabeth, 202; 0. M. var. Solum, 202; 0. Magali Sander var. Xanthotes, 202; O. Mica, 141; 0. Patricia, 104, 141; 0. Princess Mary, 269; 0. Queen Mary Ashlands var., 255; O. Rossendale, 48; 0. Schroderi aurea, 92; 0. S. Flamingo, 202; 0. West Point Beauty, 159; 0. Zenobia Leeana, 213, 255 ; 0. Zenobia Thompson's var., 242; Odontoglossum X Admiral Stur- dee, 36; 0. Adrieum, 202; O. Aglaon Orchidhurst var., 287 ; " 0. Aireworth Rosy Gem, 159; 0'. amabile Mrs. A. Oakshott, 159; 0. a. Pink Pearl, 202; 0. a. Thompsonianum, 117 ; 0. a. Twi- light, 269; 0. ardentissimum Beardwood var., 202; 0. Black Dragon, 269 ; 0. crispum Dr. J. E. Helm, 36; 0. c. Gathurst var., 202; 0. c. Dene, 350; 0. c. Perfect Gem, 335: O. c. Prince of Wales, 255 ; 0. c. Queen of the Belgians. 287 ; 0. c. Sir Trevor, 92; 0. c. Walton Beauty, 141; 0. c. Xan- thotes Oakshottiae, 242; 0. c. Xanthotes var. Mount Etna, 255 ; 0. Epicastum, 269 ; 0. Ernesti Memoria R. le Doux, 242; 0. Esthwaite, 36; 0. Euryades, 202; 0. exoellens Mrs. R. Ashworth, 159; 0. eximium Cairo, 117; 0. e. rotundifiorum, 202; 0. e. Zenith, 36 ; 0. e. Xanthotes, 23 ; O. Herculaneum, 141 ; 0. holo- leucum var. Regina, 255 ; 0. illustrissimum var. Babette, 255 ; 0. i. var. Canobus, 242; 0. i. Etna, 202; 0. i. Palatine, 242; O. i. Pompei, 202; 0. i. Scipio, 350; O. i. Sultan, 117; 0. i. Walton Grange, 269; 0. i. W. L. Evans, 159; 0. Invernium, 269; 0. Jasper Leopardinum, 202 ; 0. J. Masereelianum, 242 ; 0. Laurence Bresson, 242 ; O. Lawre crispum, 36 ; 0. Levi- athan, 213, 355; 0. Mars, 188; O. Medusa, 11 ; 0. Menier var. St. Vincent, 334; 0. Nerissa, 92; 0. N. Brunette, 255; 0. percultum Othello, 242; O. Per- fection, 255 ; 0. Pescatorei Monica, 255 ; 0. Phocas, 269 ; 0. Princess Mary, 287, 334 ; O. Rav- onatum, 255; 0. Rex, 255; 6. sandhurstiense, 104 ; 0. X Titan, 242; 0. V.C., 202; 0. Walton Ruby, 117 ; Odontonia Brewii var. Rembrandt, 36 ; Olearia insignis, 333; Oncidium Marshallianum var. Rossendale, 255 ; 0. varicosum var. Butter- cup, 48 ; Oxytropis hybrida grandiflora alba, 333 ; Papaver orientalis Perry's Pigmy, 333 ; Primula Adonis, 240 ; P. Lady- bird, 333 ; P. malacoides Rose Queen, 104; P. Reinii, 214; Prunus-Cerasus Chealii pendula, 214 ; Pyracantha crenulata, 23 ; Pyrus Malus Sargentii, 282; Roses; Dewdrop, 282; Hoosder Beauty, 226 ; May Greer, 226 ; Paul's Scarlet Climber, 282; Queen of the Belgians, 226 ; Yellow Bird, 333 ; Saxifraga oppositifolia R. W. PrdchaTd, 158; S. Vandelii, 214; Senecio multibracteatus, 282 ; Shortia unifiora grandiflora rosea, 129 ; Sophro-Cattleya- Laelia Marathon Ashlands var., 242; S.-C. Thwaitesiae Jarvis Brook var., 350; Syringa Swe- ginzowii, 333 ; Tulips : Blood- stone, 302; Comedy, 302; Em- pire, 269 ; Inglescombe White, 302 ; Marconi, 269 ; Nirvana, 269; Satin Gown, 302; Winner, 269; Viola septentrionalis, 282; Zygocolax Charlesworthii var. Ashworthiae, 255 ; Zygopetalum Brewii Walton Grange var., 255 Chamberlain's, the late Joseph, Orchids, sale of, 223 Champagne industry, the, 152 Charcoal, the manufacture of, 184 Chemical and biological notes on Cherry orchard soils, 308 Chemistry, of sick soils, 7 ; of species, 155 Cherry orchard soils, chemical and biological notes on, 308 Chestnut in France, the, 218 Chicory in France, 144 China, Mr. Reginald Farrer's ex- plorations in, 1, 109, 143, 193, 217, 231, 257, 289, 325, 337 Chiswick Show seventy years ago, 357 Chlorophora tinctoria as a dye- wood, 211 Christmas Roses, the forcing of, 46 Chrysanthemums, annual, 176 ; late-rooted, 108 ; newer Japanese, 64 Chrysanthemums : Amy Poulton, 65 ; Captain Fox, 64 ; Fred Black- burn, 64 ; General Smith-Dorrien, 64; James Stredwick, 52; Meudon, 64 ; Mr. C. Edwards, 64; Mr. Keith Luxford, 65; Mrs. C. Farrar, 65; Mrs. Edgar J. Slater, 65; Mrs. Howard Kinsey, 65 ; Mrs. J. Gibson, 65 ; Mrs. Will Dennis, 65 ; Mrs. William Kirby, 65; R. C. P., 1915, 64; Thomas Beeson, 65; Undaunted, 64; William Vert, 65; W. Rigby, 64 Cistus albidus, a correction con- cerning, 34 Citrus trifoliata, fruits of, 7 Clianthus Dampieri, 266 Cocoanut water as a rubber coagu- lant, 347 Codlin moth, the, 118 Coffee, Chicory for, in France, 144 Colchicum, uses of, 348 Colour charts, 156, 171, 187, 305 Colour grouping for small gardens, 51, 191, 276 Coniferae, the genera of, 50 Coniferous wood, vegetation of, 229 Conifers at Smeaton-Hepburn, 330; notes on, 53, 78, 206, 259, 315 Conservatory decoration, plants suitable for, 24 Contraband goods hidden in Cauli- flowers, 113 Copper sulphate for French farmers, 109 ; for Italian growers, 113. Cordonnier, St., 137 Corn crops, the, 137 Correvon, M. H., on Swiss neu- trality, 213 Corsican and Austrian Pines, 87 Coulter, John Merle (The Evolu- tion of Sex in Plants), 255 Crataegus Oxyacantha, economic properties of, 148 Creosote and ammonia washes, 317 Cricket pitch, to renovate a, 190 Crickets in greenhouses, 106, 115 Crops in 1914. extent of the, 330 ; in 1915, 314 Cucumber Lord Roberts, 27 Cupressus arizonica, 315; C. for- mosensis, 64 ; C. lusitanica, 206 ; C. 1. var. Benthamii, 259; C. Macnabiana at Highnam, 245; C. macrocarpa, 53, 76, 102, 177; C. sempervirens, 78 Currant, Red Dutch, 224 Cuthbertson, William {Sweet Peas and Antirrhinums), 178 Cuttings from abroad, the trans- mission of, 219 Cydonia vulgaris, economic pro- perties of, 148 Cymbidium Alexanderi albens, 26 ; C. Butterfly, 132; C. Schlegelii Fowler's var., 108 Cypripedium Curtisii Sanderae, 338 ; C. niveum, 290 Cypripediums, winter-flowering, 38 Cvtisus Dallimorei, seedlings of, '331 Daffodils, Brockweir House, 275 ; garden, 258; names of, 125. 156, 235; new, in 1915, 248; prospects for, 96 Dahlias, American classification of, 185; Collerette, 80; trial of, at Duffryn, 11; Star, 42 Daily Mail vegetable competitions, 128, 155 Daisy, a fasciated, 339 Davidia involucrata, 264 De Crom, Jules Hye, the late, 57, 68 Delphiniums from seed, 74 Dendrobium Triumph, 76 Denmark, the horticultural situa- tion in, 339 " Dickson " memorial cup, 210 Die. Gartenwelt and Swiss neu- trality, 213 Disease of Celerv, 169 ; of Larch, 43, 88, 128, 157; of Nasturtium and Sugar Beet, 155 Dixon, H. H. (Transpiration and the Ascent of Sap in Plants), 340 Dobson, Mr. A. T. Austin, appoint- ment of, 315 Doncaster, L. (1'he Determination of Sex), 222 Donner, Corporal, letter from, 101 Douglas, David, pioneer botanical collector in North America, 75 Droitwich experimental garden, 19 Drosophyllum lusitanicum, 27 Drought, the spring, 275 Ducher, Claude Pernet, killed in action, 236 Dust, the prevention of road, 31 Eastbourne public parks, 69 Economic properties of some hardy ornamental fruits, the, 147, 179 Edinburgh, proposal to establish a fruit and vegetable market at, 7 Efficiency of plants, the, 137 Entrenching tools, two, 250 Erica carnea praecox rubra, 79 Ericaceous plants and lime, 318, 332, 347 Eriophyes avellanae (Hazel bud- mite), 174 Eucharis grandiflora, at Smeaton Hepburn, 157; culture of, 256 Euonymus europaeus, economic pro- perties of, 147 Evans, A. H. (The Potamogetons of the British Isles), 293 Evergreens, planting, 178, 238 Experimental garden at Droitwich, 19 Experiments in the prevention of wart disease in Potatos, 184 " Faikchild " Lecture, the, 280 Farrer, explorations of Mr. Regi- nald, in China, 1. 109. 143. 193. 217, 231, 257, 289, 325, 337; Irises discovered bv Mr., 175 Fatsia japonica, 21, 60 Fawcett, William (Flora of Jamaica), 7 Fern fronds from Queensland. 185 Fern spores, longevity of, 157 ; sowing of, 163 Fertilising, kelp for, 185; wool and leather waste for, 210 June 26, 1915.] INDEX. [The Gardeners' Chronicle. V Flies, the destruction of, 296, 330 Floods, the effect of, on grass, 44 Flora, of New Zealand, the, 198 Florists' flowers, 27, 79, 133, 176, 192 Flower border, the, 219 Flower exports from Italy, 309 Flower garden, the management of the, 3, 17, 28, 41, 54, 66, 82, 99. Ill, 123, 135, 150, 166, 180, 195, 209. 221, 232, 246, 260, 276, 295, 310, 326, 343, 355 Flowering of Apple trees, 71 ; un- seasonable, 34 Flowers, close time for, in America, 298 Flowers in season, 137, 169, 211, 264 344 Food 'supply, the, 115, 127, 131, 139, 171, 187, 237, 358 Forbes, Edward, the centenary of, 112 Foreign correspondence, 27, 58, 177, 213, 274 Forestry at Aberdeen, 153 ; at Avondale, 77, 102, 128 Forsythias in America, 292 France, Chicory in, 144 ; German exports to, 198 ; the Walnut and Chestnut in, 218 Franklinella robusta (black fly of Beans), 32 Eraser, Mr. James, appointment of, 57 Fream memorial prize, 314 French horticulturists at the front, 154, 169 French farmers, copper sulphate for, 109 "French" garden, the, 5, 67, 83, 151, 195, 233, 327 French National Horticultural Society's letter to the R.H.S., 125 French notes, 144, 269, 291 French page, 9, 22, 33, 45, 59, 70, 81, 103, 114, 126, 138, 149, 171, 186, 199, 212, 225, 239, 252, 264, 281, 299, 316, 324, 348, 359 Friar Park and the Royal Gar- deners' Orphan Fund, 184; visit of Queen Alexandra to, 263 Fritillaria pallidiflora, 275 Frost in May, 276; effects of, ou fruit crops, 237 Fruit exports from South Africa, 314 Fruit farm at Nairu, proposed, 198 Fruit garden, the, 213 Fruit-growing under glass, com- mercial, 174 Fruiting of Apple trees, the, 171 Fruit register, 40, 79 Fruit trade, the world's, 169 Fruit trees, for a north-west aspect, 74; mulching, 167, 201; self sterility of, 2"0 ; the parts of, 47, 71 ; winter-spraying of, 115, 127 157, 200 Fruits, cultivation of, under glass, 4, 17, 28, 40, 55, 66, 83, 98, 110. 122, 134, 150, 166, 180, 195, 209. 221, 232, 247, 261, 277, 294, 311, 327, 342, 355 Fryer, Alfred (The Potamogetons of the British Isles), 293 Fumigation of seeds, the, 210 Fungus spores, birds as carriers of, 185 Galt, A. S. (Systematic Cropping of Vegetable Gardens), 264 Garden help association, proposal for a national, 155 Garden soils, 265 Gardeners : and the food supply, 115 ; frauds on, 34 Gardeners' Chronicle seventy years ago, extracts from the, 69, 80, 121, 155, 169, 184, 224, 236, 250. 280, 297, 314, 330, 345, 357 Gardening during the war, 234, 275 Gardens, colour grouping for small, 51, 191, 276 Gates, R. Ruggles (The Mutation Factor in Involution, with par- ticular reference to Oenothera), 358 Gaultheria procumbens as a pot plant, 7 Gentil, M. Louis, 7 Georgia, Ada (.4 Manual of Weeds), 3 German exports to France, 198 ; seeds in America, 198 Gladiolus, a new strain of, 127 Gladiolus tristis, 275 Glasgow, horticultural lectures at, 198 Glasgow public parks, the, 153 ; assistant superintendent of the, 100, 263 Glass duty, repeal of the, 121, 224 Globe Artichoke, the, 250 Gloxinia, the culture of the, 79, 156, 194 Gooseberry thorns, poisoning from, 101, 128 Gordon, Mr. G. P., appointment of, 57 Grafting by approach, 304 Grain and meal statistics, 101, 169 Grapes, the shrivelling of, 25 Grape-vine illusions, 172, 187, 201 Grass, the greenness of, after floods, 44, 60 Gray, the herbarium of the late Asa, 184 Grove, W. B. (A Poclcet Synopsis of the Families of British Flower- ing Plants), 178 Hall, Charles A. (Plant Life), 358 Hamamelis mollis, 50 Hampden, Mary (Every Woman's Flower Garden), 255, 293 Hardy border flowers, 87, 156 Hardy fruit garden, operations in the, 5, 16, 28, 40, 54, 66, 82, 98, 111, 122, 135, 151, 167, 181, 194, 208, 220, 233, 247, 261, 277, 295, 310, 327, 342, 355 Haricot and French Beans, 157 Harland, Mr. S. C, appointment of, 329 Hay crop, military to assist with the, 345 Hazel bud mite (Eriophyes avel- lanae), 174 Hazel coppice, utilisation of, 347 Helleborus niger, the forcing of, 46, 88 Heteromorphy in Pinguiculas, 274 Highland kelp industry, 7 Hippophae rhamnoides, economic properties of, 179 Hoeing, 266 Holland, appeal for books for prisoners in, 201 ; fruit crops in, 314 ; notes from, 134 Holly, economic properties of the, 147 ; epiphytic upon Cedar, 115 Honeysuckle, economic properties of, 179 Hooker, the late Sir Joseph, 7 Horse manure at the remount camps, 298 Horticultural allusions, 35 Horticultural entente cordialc, 125 Horticultural exhibition seventy years ago, 297 Horticultural glass seventy years ago, 224 Horticulture in the United States, 137 Horwood, A. R. (The Story of Plant Life in the British Islands), 293 Hyacinths for early forcing, 134 Hybrid Austrian Briar, the, 37 H'vbrid Orchids, 39, 144, 218, 244, 306 Ilex Aquifolium, economic pro- perties of, 147 Impatiens Holstii, 50 Indian Wheat cropj the, 124 Insect fumigant, Para-dichlor- benzene aa an, 184 Insecticide, Quassia chips as an, 185 International Botanical Congress, 56 B Inwood, Somersetshire, stove plants at, 251 Ireland, R.H.S. of, appeals for fruit for the Fleet, 279 Iris Farreri, 175; I. Henryi, 175; I. Purdyi, 338; I. Rosenbach- iana, 74; I. tingitana, 87; I. Wattii. 95 Irises, Chinese, 175 Irrigation in the tropics, 155 Italian Tomatos, 211 Italy, and imported Bordeaux mix- ture, 113; flower exports from, 309 Jassmnum nudiflorum, 64 Juglans calif ornica, 133 ; J. c. var. quercina, 133 Keeping orchards clean, 88 Kelp as a fertiliser, 7, 58, 185 Kew Gardens, the Marianne North Gallery at, 32 ; women labour for, 280; work at, 154 King, Mr. David, presentation to, 57 King, Mrs. Francis (The Well Con- sidered Garden), 298 Kitchen garden, management of the, 5, 16, 29, 40, 55, 67, 83, 98, 110, 123, 134, 150, 167, 181. 195, 209, 221, 233, 247, 261, 277, 294, 311, 327, 343, 355 Labour, means of saving, 163, 224, 266, 300 Lackey moth and the sparrow, 332, 358 Laelio-Cattleya J. F. Birkbeck Fowler's var., 192; L.-C. Lydia, 52; L.-C. Sibyl Low's var., 297 Lake planting, 190 Lanarkshire afforestation scheme, 84 Langford, Mr. R, S., appointment of, 329 Langley Park, Buckinghamshire, 7 Larix olgensis, 109 Latham, the late William Brad- bury, 10 Lawes and Gilbert centenary fund, donation to the, 19 Law Notes:— Are bulbs " crops " ? 160 ; Edinburgh nurseries, assessment of, 204 ; Holdrup, Stephen, failure of, 320 ; Small landholders and market gardening, 49. 160 ; Ten- ant's claim for improvements, a, 350 Lawn-tennis court, dimensions of a, 94 Leaf-mould, properties of, 312 Leaf-propagation of plants, 153 Leaf-scorching and the Bordeaux mixture, 18 Leeds Rhubarb industry, the, 113 Leeks, the cultivation of. 147, 171, 200, 213, 224 Legislation seventy years ago, 121 " Le Jardin des Plantes " in 1871, 269 Leschenaultia biloba major, 224 Lilies in 1914, 13 Liliunx philadelphicum, 338 Lime and Ericaceous plants, 318, 332, 347 Lime-sulphur as a summer wash, 185, 201 Little, Second Lieut. W. B., 314 Lobelia laxiflora var, angustifolia, 262, 276 Loganberry, the culture of the, 8 London parks, suggestions for im- provement of, 79, 102, 115 London street trees, 137, 201 Longevity of seeds, 100, 115 Lonicera Maackii, 348 ; L. Peri- clymenum, economic properties of, 179 Lycium chinense, economic pro- perties of, 179 M Macdonald, William (Makers of Modern Agriculture), 259 Machinery, transport of, 237 Mackenzie, the late Major John, V.C., 329 Maiden, Mr. J. H., awarded the Linnean Gold Medal, 344 Manganese and nitrogen fixation, 184 Manure heap, the, 30, 58, 296, 330, 332 Manurial value of sewage sludge, 347 Market fruit garden, operations in the, 15, 39, 80, 107, 133, 200, 208, 217, 243, 274, 338, 354 Market prices, 298 Mas, Alphonse, life of, 321 MasdevaJlia tovarensis, 144 Massachusetts agricultural station bulletins, 58 Massee, Mr. George, retirement of, 248 "Masters" memorial lecture, 328. 356 Mawson, Private J. R., the late, 314 Maxwell, Sir Herbert (Trees: A Woodland Notebook), 308 May note-taking seventy years ago, 250 McKerchar, Mr. John, 101 McLeod, Mr. J. F., appointment of, 44 Mealy-bug and woolly aphis, re- quest for, 60 Mealy-bug, gas-tar treatment for, 266 Medicine for trees, 113 Melons, R.H.S. trial of, 300 Metropolitan Public Gardens' As- sociation, 155 Mice and the protection of seed- bags, 154 Michaelmas Daisies, the cultiva- tion of, 219 Micromeria croatica. 79 Midland Daffodil show, a correc- tion, 238 Mineral food of plants, the, 124 Mitraria coccinea, 118 M'Meekin, the late John. 7 Moisture, removal of, from fruits, 128 Monro, Mr. Alexander, W., ap- pointment of, 329 "Monro" concert, 68; donations to charities. 263 Montigny, M. Rene, killed in action, 329 Moreton Paddox, Warwickshire. 323 Moss, C. E. (The British Cam- bridge Flora), 119 Moss, the eradication of, 31 Mould, Mr. G. B., appointment of, 182 Mulching, note on. 348 My Shrubs (Eden Phillpotts), 264 VI The Gardeners' Chronicle.] INDEX. [June 26, 1915. N Narcissus Centaur, 244; N. Du- bius, 275; N. Flame, 219; N. Golden Chief, 183; N. Red Bea- con, 249 Nasturtium and Sugar Beet disease, 155 National Horticultural Society of France, 249 Nature, how new varieties arise in, 300 New South Wales, 345 New Zealand flora, the, 198 New Zealand plants for American gardens, 112 New Zealand, trade with, 211 ; in 1841 and the present time, 185 Nietzel, Dietrich, life of, 353 Nitrate of soda, statistics concern- ing, 87 Nitrogen-fixation and manganese, 184 North American forest trees in Britain, 145, 165 Novelties of 1914, 2, 19 Nursery, a London, seventy years ago, 330 Nursery Note : — Sutton and Sons, Reading, 120 Nursery stock, the packing of, 26 Obituary: Allen, R. W., 94; Baillie, James, 50 ; Barbey, Wil- liam, 184; Biron, Rev. Henry Brydges, 216; Bolitho, T. B., 304; Brazier, F., 94; Brunton, John William, 130 ; Buckett, Wil- liam Edwin, 100; Cook, E. T., 270; Church, Sir A. H., 335; De Crom, Jules Hye, 36 ; Edwards Thomas, 242; Elcombe, A. M. 160; Elphick, A. W., 106; Emer- son, Thomas, 255 ; Faulds J. S., 160; Forder, James 350; Gracie, T., 94; Granger, William, 160; Harvey, James Clay, 74; Hatcher, W., 211, Heale, F. J., 160; Hope, Captain John, R.N., 130; Huggan, John A., 255; Hughes, Thomas, 190; Humphrey, George, 74; Hunter, George, 320; Hutchings. Henry, 50; Keav, William R., 106; Keeble, Mrs. F. W., 216 ; Lewis, Edward, 298; Malcolm, John, 160; Martin, C, 270; McTag- gart, C. 0., 94; Mellis. David Young, 24 ; Mercer, Thomas, 174 ; Moncur, George Greig, 204 ; Morrison, John. 24; Muir, John, 36; Miiller, Dr. Hugo, 335; Nisbet, Dr. John, 50; Ogston, Alexander, 74; Paterson, W. B., 211; Piper. Archibald, 242; Quinn, E. F.. 211; Reid. Capt. Savile G., 142; Renton, Robert, 36 ; Roe, William, 211 : Roths- child, Baron Nathan Maver, 204; Sweenev. M., 94; Thomson, David, 159, 171 ; Wadds. Bailev, 288; Whitehouse, John, 255; Woodward. Lieut. Robert, 279 O'Brien, Second. Lieuts. James and John, 263, 298 Odontioda Zenobia Leeana. 218 Odontoglossum crispum Glasnevin yellow, 290 ; O. <■. Irene. 354 ; O. Herculaneum, 132; O. Leviathan, 230. Odontoglossums from Walton Grange, 306 Orchards, clean, 88 Orchid cultivation, the progress of, 344 Orchid groups at the Chelsea Show, regulations concerning, 244 Orchid houses, the management of the, 4, 17, 28, 41. 54, 67, 82, 99, 110, 122, 134, 151, 166, 180, 194, 208, 220. 232, 246, 260, 276, 295, 310, 326, 342, 355 Orchid notes and gleanings, 26, 38, 52. 76, 108, 132, 144, 177, 192, 218, 244, 290, 306, 338, 354 Orchids, at Belsize Park, Hamp- stead, 244; at The Glebe, Seven- oaks, 177; sale of, 76; at High- bury, sale of, 168, 223 Ornithogalum lacteum, 46, 194 Orphan Fund, Royal Gardeners' (annual meeting), 91, 314 Oxycoccus macrocarpus, economic properties of, 179 Packing of nursery stock, 26 Paeonia obovata, 290 Paeony La Lorraine, 56, 68, 88 Panama hats, fibre used in making, 57, 146 Panama-Pacific Exhibition the, 57, 154 Papaver glaucum, 27 ; P. umbro- sum, 27 Para-dichlorbenzene as an insect fumigant, 184 Parks, London, suggestions in re- gard to planting in the, 79 Peach tree, approach grafting of the, 304 Peaches, disbudding of. 162 Peas, late varieties of. 20 ; shortage of, in New Zealand, 153. Peed, Mr. T. P., appointment of. 236 Peets, Elbert (Practical Tree Be- pair), 347 Pelargoniums seventv years ago, 169 Pernetiana Roses. 21, 25, 46, 52, 96. 101 Pettigrew, Mr. A. A., appointment of, 137; Mr. W. W., appoint- ment of, 57. 182 Phillpotts, Eden (My Shrubs), 264 Pines, proposed U.S.A. embargo on, 211 Pinguiculas, heteromorphy in, 274 Pinua Laricio, 87 Pit-wood, home-grown, 16; sup- plies of, 154 Plant food in soils, 328 Plant collecting seventv years ago, 155 Plant growth and radio-activity, 262 Planting evergreens, 178 Plant Portraits: — Acan- thopanax leucorrhizum, 237 ; Amelanchier florida, 298; Aristo- lochia longecaudata, 346 ; Cirrho- petalum Fletcherianum, 154 ; Cotoneaster pannosa, 32 ; Dor- stenia yambuyaensis, 346; En- cephalartos Hildebrandtii, 32 ; Eugenia uniflora, 113 ; Gentiana barbate forma grandiflora, 298 ; Hippeastrum Elwesii, 346 ; Iris Urumovii, 237; Lotus cam- pylocladus, 154; Mesembry- anthemum stylosum, 32 ; M. the- catum, 32; Mormodes tigrinum, 113 ; Phelipaea foliata, 346 ; Pinguecula gypsicola, 154 ; Primula miyabeana, 237; P. pycnoloba, 298 ; Rhododendron Davidsonianum, 237; R. mou- pinense, 113; R. stamineum, 154; Thunbergia Gibsonia, 237 ; Tillandsii Regina, 113 ; Zygo- petalum Prainianum, 298 Plants, New or Noteworthy:— Aloe Dawei, 264; Angraecum in- fundibulare, 264; Cissus adeno- podus, 264 ; Clerodendron ugand- ense, 264; Coreopsis Grantii, 264 ; Crataegus barbara, 322 ; C. Brownietta, 322 ; C. celsa, 322; C. compacta, 322; C. desueta, 322 ; C. Dewingii, 322 ; C. Eatoniana, 323 ; C. East- maniana, 322; C. florifera, 323; C. limatala. 323 ; C. notabilis, 323; C. pausiaca, 323; C. silves- tris, 323 ; C. tenax, 323 ; Dom- beya Dawei, 264 ; Haemanthus cyrtanthiflorus, 264 ; Lanx olgensis, 109 ; Moultonia, a new genus of Gesneraceae, 307 ; Oldenlandia dolichantha, 264 ; Plumbago Dawei, 264 ; Poso- queria densiflora, 306; Primula brevifolia, 207; P. florida, 207; P. gracilenta, 207 ; Pycnostachys Dawei, 264 ; Rhododendron auri- culatum, 133 ; R. Hanceanum, 133 ; R. moupinense, 133 Plants, efficiency of, 136; exporta- tion of, 10; foods of, and poisons, 68 ; in tubs, 331 ; mineral food of, 124. Plants under glass, the cultivation of, 4, 17, 29, 41, 54, 67, 82, 99, 111, 123, 135, 150, 167, 180, 194, 208, 221, 233, 247, 260, 276, 294, 311, 326, 343, 355 Pneumonia bacillus and Potatos, 211 Poa annua, the seed of, 213 Poisons and plant foods, 68 Polyanthus, fasciated, 301 Polypodium calcarium, fragrance of, 250 Polyporus adustus causing snap beech disease, 87 Pomologists, lives of the great, 321 Pond, to puddle a, 162 ; kept clear of weeds by swans, 184 ; the re- moval of weeds from a, 204 Poppies, notes on, 27 Potash fertilisers, the manufacture of, 155 Potash, sources of, 44, 298; sub- stitute for, 250 Potato trials, in Scotland, 125 ; in Surrey, 87 Potatos, and the bacillus of pneu- monia, 211 ; importation of, seventy years ago, 280 ; import statistics relating to, 98 ; wart disease of, 97, 266 " Pour nos amis francais et beiges," 9, 22, 33, 45, 59, 70. 81, 103, 114, 126, 138. 149, 171. 186, 199, 212, 225, 239. 252, 267. 281, 299, 316, 324, 348, 359 Prickly pears, extract of, as a spray adhesive, 69 Primula angustifolia, 266; P. Ellisiae, 266; P. Excelsior. 195; P. japonica at Wisley, 292; P. Poissonii, 352; P. vincaeflora at Wisley, 292 " Pritzel," need for a new issue of, 202 Propagating Carnations, 77, 127 Propagation by leaves, 153 Primus, the economic properties of the fruits of some species of, 148 Publications received : 7. 32, 44, 69, 87, 113. 125, 155, 185, 198, 211. 237, 255. 264, 280, 298, 315, 347, 358 Pyracantha angustifolia, 101, 128; P. coccinea. 101, 115; P. erenu- lata, 102 Pyrus, the economic properties of some species of, 148 Quassia chips for insecticides, 185 Queensland, dried Fern fronds from, 185 Quercus insignis, 76 Rabbits, how to exclude, from plantations, 94 Radio-activitv and plant growth, 262 Radish, the origin of the, 296, 317 Railway banks, wild flowers on, 60 Rainfall and cannonading, 88 Rainfall, in 1914, 31, 44, 60, 77, 115 ; in March, 224 Ranunculus, the, seventy years ago, 69 Rats, the destruction of, 184 Razors for the troops, 251, 347 Reader, Mr. Frank, presentations to, 211, 329 Red Cabbage, to make, blue, 342 Red spider, 211 Reims champagne industry, 152 Relief Fund, War Horticultural, 234, 249, 263, 279. Rendle, Alfred Barton (Flora of Jamaica), 7 Rhamnus cathartica, economic pro- perties of, 148; R. Frangula, the wood of, 332 Rhododendrons, culture of, 332 ; propagating, 164, 204 Rhubarb industry at Leeds, 113 Rhubarb, tropical, 87 Richardia Elliottiana, cultivation of, 352 Robinson, W. (Home Landscapes), 44 Rock garden, the, 245, 338; in America, 298 Rolfe, Mr. R. A., appointment of, 32 Rosa rugosa economic properties of, 148 Rosarv, the, 25, 52, 97, 108, 147, 166," 200, 206, 244 Rose cuttings rooted under glass, 200 Rose garden in February, the, 63 Rose, the first Hvbrid "Tea, 206; the Pernetiana, 25, 46, 52 Roses affected with crown gall, 253 ; forcing Christmas, 46; late-flower- ing, 32, 60; pruning standard, 174 ; suitable varieties of, for Canada, 108 Roses : A. R. Goodwin, 37 ; Beaute de Lyon, 37; Deutschland, 37; Entente Cordiale, 37 ; Johannis- feuer, 37; Juliet, 37; Lamarque, 244 ; Louis Barbier, 37 ; Louise C. Breslau, 38 ; Madame Ruau, 37; Mrs. A. Carnegie, 68; Paul's Climber, 297; Rayon d'Or, 37; Soleil d'Angers, 37; Veluvezoom, 37; Viscountess Enfield, 37; White Queen, 68 Rourke, Mr. James, appointment of, 263 Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund, (annual meeting) 91. (appeal for) 314 R.H.S. and Servia, 358; Apple test, 128; Chelsea Show, 282, 301 ; Forced Bulb Show, 140 ; garden at Wisley, 27, 292, 300; Journal of the, 10, 21, 34, 47, 72, 245 ; novelties at meetings, 358 ; Report of Duffrvn Dahlia trials, 11; Tulip Show ,"273; War Horti- cultural Relief Fund, 234, 249, 263, 279 Rubber coagulant, Cocoanut water as a, 347 Rural improvement, 21 Russia, trade with. 113. 153 Russian Apples, 42, 60, 79, 115 Salt as a substitute for potash, 250 Sambucus nigra, economic pro- perties of, 179 Sap in plants, the rise of, 156, 201 Saunders, Dr. William, 330 Sawdust as a source of potash, 296 Saxifraga apiculata, 245 Scientific Committee.— Acro- triche fasciculiflora, 36; Amaryl- lis, seeds of, 35 ; Apple fruit spot, 360; Apple shoots dying, 360; Apple with pistillate flowers, 301; Azaleas, early-flowering, 202; Blood, preparation of dried, 172; Boron, the effect of, on plants, 172 ; Bulbophyllum dichromum, 202; Chemistry of flower colours, 89 ; Chermes abietis, galls of, 202 ; Colours of flowers from re- ciprocal crosses, 253 ; Conifer growing under the spray of a June 26, 1915.] INDEX. [The Gardeners' Chronicle. Vll waterfall, 36 ; Crinum MooTei, albino seeds of, 35 ; Crocus bi- florus var., 172; Cypripedium niveum x C. insigne Sanderae, 60 ; Dahlias, self-sown, 253 ; Eumerus strigatus (Lesser Nar- cissus fly), 253; Fasciated French Beans, 253; Flowering time in different latitudes, 360 ; Fungus on, white fly, 139; Galanthus Elwesii, seedlings of, 139 ; Gall- like growths on Ribes, 253 ; Hybrid Orchids, 172; Janu- ary flowering plants. 60; Leu- cojum VagneTi, 139 ; Lisso- chilus arenarius, 253 ; Loni- cera Griffithii, 301 ; Lysichitum camtschatcense, 301 ; Magnesium in soils, 301 ; Malformations in flowers, 139; Myrtle, fruiting of the, 36; Narcissus, hybrid, 202 ; Narcissus Tazetta, forms of, 240; Oak leaf, a bifur- cated, 172; Oak, with curious foliage, 60; with fungus gall, 172; Odontoglossum Horsmanii, 60 ; Orange with lemon-coloured segments, 172 ; Orange with yellow stripes, 202 ; Orchids, natural hybrid, 202; Orchids, the effect of light on, 35 ; Paeonia Delavayi, 240; Pas- ture, the improvement of, 253; Peat and potash, 301 ; Pelar- gonium sport, 240 ; Pelargoniums, variegation in, 35 ; Pineapple from Pernambuco, 89 ; Pinguicula caudata, variation in, 139 ; Plants, uncommon, from abroad, 360; Poultry manure, 172 ; Primula malacoides, seed of, 89 ; P. Mrs W. R. Lvsaght, 301; P. Reinii, 240; Prunns, wild, 60; Ribes', species and hybrids, 253 ; Rose mildew (Sphaerotheca pannosa), 139 ; Sequoia gigantea diseased, 60 ; Snowdrop seedlings, 139 ; Sphaerotheca pannosa (Rose mildew), 139; Tacca cristata, vegetative buds in inflorescence of, 89 ; Tricotyledonary Acers, 253 : Tricotyledonary Sycamores, 172; Tulipa Fosteriana, 253; Tulips attacked by Botrytis para- sitica. 253; Tulips, the' breaking of, 301 Scotland, frost in, 280; late-flower- ine Roses in, 32; Potato trials in, 125 Sedums, trials of, at Wisley, 27 Seed-bags, protection of from mice, 154 Seeds, fumigation, of, 210 ; longevity of, 100, 115 ; regulations con- cerning importation by Brazil, 137 Self-rooting varieties of Apples and Plums, 115, 127, 139 Self-sterility of fruit trees, 20 Sewage sludge, manurial value of. 347 Shadwell Park. London, 113 Shaw, George Russell (The Genus Pinvs). 196 Sherwood, Mr. N. N., appointment of, 44 Shrewsbury Public Park, spring bedding 'at. 280 Shrivelling of Grapes, 25 Shrubs, berry- bearing, in winter, 10, 64 ; ornamental, 10 Silene Hookeri, 338 ; S. Zawadskii, 338 Silver-leaf disease, 56 Smeaton-Hepburn, Conifers at, 330 ; Eucharis at, 157 Snapbeech disease, 87, 139, 157 Societies : — Birmingham Hort., 11 ; Brighton, Hove and Sus- sex Hort., 92, 173; British Gardeners', 173 ; Dumfries and District Hort,, 130, 350; Finchley Chrys., 129 ; General Bulb Growers of Haarlem, 173, 319 ; Glasgow and West of Scotland Hort., 36, 117; Glasgow F"ruit Trade Association, 142 ; Glasgow Fruit Trade Benevolent, 48 ; Horticultural Club, 62, (annual meeting) 116, 172, 189, 202, 272; Horticultural Trades' Associa- tion, 303 ; Kew Guild meeting and dinner, 297 ; Kirkmichael Hort., 84; Linnean, 11; Liverpool Hort., 254; Man- chester and North of Eng- land OTchid, 10, 36, 48, 92, 116, 141, 159, 202, 242, 255, 269, 350; Midland Daffodil, 227; National Auricula and Primula (Midland section), 253; (Southern section), 242; National Auricula '(Manchester), 253; National Chrysanthemum, (annual meet- ing) 73, 105; National Dahlia, 48, 80; National Hardy Plan',, 116 ; National Hort. of Ireland, 255 ; National Rose, 226 ; Norfolk and Norwich Hort., 92, 254; Northern Tulip, 350 ; Per- petual-flowering Carnation, 36, 216, 254; Royal Caledonian Hort., 241; Royal Hort., 11, 23, 35, 47, 60, 72, (annual meeting) 89, 104, 128, 139, 140, 158, 172, 188, 202, 213, 240. 253, 268, 273, 282, 301. 332, 360; Royal Meteorological.il 62, 129, 318'; Royal Scottish Arbori- cultural, 141, 318; Scottish Hort., 48, 129, 140, 255; Stam- ford and District Hort., 319; Stirling Chrys., 92; Ulster Hort., 117; United Hort. Bene- fit and Provident, 12, 48, 105. 159, (annual meeting) 254, 269 ; Windsor, Eton and District Rose, 48 Soil moisture, the storage and use of, 87 Soils for the garden, 265 ; influ- ence of weather on, 356 ; plant- food in, 328; the chemistry of sick, 7 Solanum Dulcamara, economic pro- perties of, 179 Soldiers to assist with the hay crops, 345 Somerville, Private W. L., 298 South Africa, fruit exports from, 314; notes from, 146 South-west Scotland, flowering trees in, 236 Spades for entrenching, 250 Spain, seeds, manures, and agri- cultural implements for, 113 Sparrow, the, and the lackey moth, 332, 358 Species, the chemistry of, 155 ; what is a? 341 Spinach, the cultivation of winter, 27 Spotting of Apples, 39, 80, 102, llf , 127, 157 Sprains, verjuice for, 148, 251 Spray adhesive, a novel, 69 Spray nozzles, R.H.S. trial of, 154 Spraying in winter, 115, 127 Spring flowers and their ways, 205, 230 Spring, the lateness of, 168 Stereum purpureum (silver-leaf disease), 56 Stock, the influence of, on scion, 269 Stocks, Brompton, 35 Stove plants at Inwood, Somerset- shire, 251 Strawberries, layering, for forcing, 348, 358 Streptosolon Jamesonii, the culti- vation of, 174 Sunflower, economic value of the 317 Surrey, Potato trials in, 87 Sutton, Martin F. {The Effects of Eadio-Aclive Ores and Residues on Plant Life), 185 Swanley Horticultural College, 249 Swans clear ponds of weeds, 184 Sweet Pea, varieties of, for borders, 94 Sweet Pea Society in America, 32 Sweet Peas, for decorative purposes, 118; for exhibitions, 256; R.H.S. trial of winter-flowering, 198; the sowing of, 77 ; under glass, 108 ; winter-flowering, 192 Swiss neutrality and Die Garten- welt, 213 Syringa Sweginzowit, 344 The Glebe, Orchids at, 177 Thiebaut, M. Emile, news of, 7 Thomas, H. H. (The Book of Hardy Flowers), 255, 308 Thomson, the late David, 171, 298 Thunbergia Gibsonii, 245 Thuya obtusa in Japan, 164 Timber, the utilisation of home- grown, 30 Tithonia speciosa, 137, 292 Tomato, a new variety of, for winter cropping, 132 Tomatos, Italian, 211 Top-dressing of autumn Wheat, 220 Town gardens, Alpines for, 182 Trade with New Zealand, 211 Tree medicine, 113 Trees and shrubs, 64, 76, 145, 165, 178, 317 Trees at Twickenham, 238 Trees, cross-breeding of, 317; for London streets, 137, 201 ; fun- gous disease in, 139 ; North American, in Britain, 145 ; orna- mental, 10 ; winter spraying of, 157 . Trial of winter-flowering Be- goni?,s, 314 Troops, razors for the, 251, 347 Tropics, irrigation in the, 155 Tubs, cultivation of plants in, 331 Tulip Conference, the, 278 Tulip offsets, 251 ; problems, 290 Tulipa saxatilis, 251 Tulips, broken, 317; lifting late- flowering, 358 ; trial of, at Wisley, 210, 300" U Uganda, botanical travels in, 272 United States of America, Apple crop in, 7 ; horticulture in, 137 Vaccinium Mvrtillus, economic pro- perties of, 179 Vallota in a wild state, the, 146 Variation in nature and under domestication, 300 Vegetable seeds for the battle area, 169 Vegetables, cultivation of, in small areas, 131 ; in British Guiana, 58; notes on, 27, 77, 132, 147, 171 ; sown in August, 21 Vegetation, the quickening of, 156, 201 Vegetative reproduction seventy years ago, 345 Veitch, Sir Harry, awarded the "White" medal, 125 Verjuice for sprains, 148, 251 Viburnum Opulus, economic pro- perties of, 179; V. Tinus, 64 Vilmorin, M. Jean de, 169 Vine borders, treatment of winter, 24 W Wadds, the late Mr. Bailey, 300 Wales, rainfall in, 115 Walnut, an Oak-like, 133; in France, 218 War, effect of. on American busi- ness, 3; on Danish business, 339 ; on horticulture, 35 War horticultural relief fund, 234, 249 263 279 War items', 18, 30. 57, 68, 100. 124, 154, 169, 198, 210, 223, 236, 263. 279, 298, 314, 357 Wart disease of Potatos, 97, 184. 266 Washes, ammonia and creosote in- secticides, 317 Watson, W. (Climbing Plants), 358 Wells, Mr. W., 358 West Indies, the Panama hat in- dustry in the, 146 Westonbirt, Cattleva Trianae at, 192 Wheat, home-grown, 44, 88; in India, 124 ; top-dressing of autumn, 220 "White" medal awarded to Sir Harry Veitch, 125 Wild flowers in the Citv of London, 60 "Winter grime," 79. 102, 115 Winter spraying, 115, 127, 157, 200 Wiping moisture from fruits to favour preservation. 128 Wisley, notes from. 271, 292; Sedum trial at, 27, 358 ; trials of winter washes at, 301 ; trial of Bearded Irises at, 357; Tulip trials at, 210, 300. 358 Women and horticulture, 264, 280, 330, 348, 358 Wood for gunpowder, 211, 332 Woodward, Lieut. Robert, killed in action, 279 Wool and leather waste as fer- tilisers, 210 Xanthorrhoea hastilis, develop- ment of the inflorescence of. 198" Xanthoceras sorbifolia, 332, 348 Yucca filamentosa, 187 Zei'HYRANTHes carinata, 201 Vlll The Gardeners' Chronicle.] INDEX. [June 26, 1915. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS Abies nobilis plantation at Durris, 165 Aciphylla Traversii, 31 ; in- florescence of, 34 Acnistus Miersii, 58 Allium kaflisuense, 231 Anemone blanda, double- flowered speoimen of, 245; A. rupicola, 272 Aquatias, Mr. P., portrait of, 5 Aristolochia longecaudata, 346 Beetle, the click, 162 Bitter-rot canker of Apple tree, 312 Brasso-Cattleya Menda, 153 Briscoe, Mr. T. W. , portrait of, 4 Bulb of Lilium Martagon, 13 Bulbophyllum appendiculatum, 38 ; B. Binnendijkii, 38 ; B. Binnen- dijkii, showing habit, 39; B. mirum, 39 Bunyard. Mr. George, address pre- sented to, 69 Cattleya citrina, 280 Cecidomyia salicis, galls on Willow, 130 Chelsea Show, groups at the, 284, 285, 286 Chrysanthemum carinatum Bur- ridgeanum, 176; C. carinatum Morning Star, 178 ; C. carinatum Northern Star, 179 ; C. carina- tum The Sultan, 177 ; C. General Smith-Dorrien, 65 ; C. James Stredwick, 52; C. Thomas Bee- son, 72; C. Undaunted, 64; C. TV. Rigby, 71 Cobb, Mr. A. J., portrait of, 3 Cockchafer, insects and larvae of the, 130 Codlin Moth, the, 118 Cook, E. T., portrait of the late, 270 Coreopsis Grantii, 265 Crocus aerius, 140 Cupressus arizonica, 315 ; C. lusi- tanica, 206 ; C. lusitanica var. Benthamii, 259 ; C. macrocarpa, 148 ; C. m. var. Lambertiana, 53 ; 0. semperviTens, 78 Cyclamen Mont Blanc, 171 Cymbidium Alexanderi albens, 26 ; C. Schlegelii Fowler's var., 108 Cypher, Messrs. J. and Sons', ex- hibit at Chelsea Show, 284 CypTipedium Arthurianum var. Langley, 23 ; C. Curtisii Sanderae, 338; C. luteum (?), 257 Cytisus Dallimorei, 331 Dahlia White Star, 43 Daisy, a fasciated, 539 Daphne arbuscula, 268 Dendrobium Triumph, 76 Donner, Corporal, portrait of, 102 Douglas, David, portrait of, 75 Douglas Fir plantation at Stanley, 145 Drosophyllum lusitanicum, 27 Dunn, Mr. John, portrait of, 5 Edwards, Thomas, portrait of the late, 255 Erigeron hybridus Asa Gray, 357 Galls on Willow caused by Ceci- domyia salicis, 130 Gibbs, Mr. Vicary, exhibit of vegetables by, at the Chelsea Show, 286 Gladiolus with waved segments, 127 Godetia Lavender, 354 H Hibiscus Waimeae, 8 Hiirhgate, Mr. John, portrait of, 4 Hillside, Reading, Primulas at, 120, 121 Iris Lohengrin, 340; I. tingitana, 85 Jordan, Mr. F., portrait of, 4 Laelio-C'attleya J. F. Birkbeck FowleT's var., 192; L.-C. Sibyl Low's var., 297 Lampronia rubiella, the Raspberry Moth, 336 Larix olgensis, 109 Lawn-tennis court, diagram for, 94 Leeks, exhibit of, 224 Lewisia columbiana, 283 Lilium Bolanderi, 14 ; L. Martagon, bulb of, 13; L. pardalinum X L. Parryi, 15 Lobelia laxiflora var. angustifolia, 263 Lonicera Maa-ckii, 334 Lysichitum camtschatcense, 301 M McDonald, Gunner W., portrait of the late, 250 Mas, Alphonse, portrait of, 321 Medal, the " White," 125 Moreton Paddox, Warwickshire, views at, 322, 323 N Narcissus Centaur, 244 ; N. Chryse, 215; N. Flame, 219; N. Golden Chief, 183 Nietzel, Dietrich, signature of, 353 Odontioda Latona, 48; 0. Zenobia var. Leeana, 218 Odontoglossum Herculaneum, 132 ; O. Leviathan, 230 Olearia insignis, 333 Ornithogalum lacteum, 193 Paeonia obovata, 290 Peach shoots,, disbudding of, 162 Peach tree, grafting of by ap- proach, 304 Pettigrew, Mr. Andrew, portrait of, 137 Pettigrew, Mr. W. W., portrait of, 57 Posoqueria densi flora, 306, 307 ; P. macropus, 313 Potatos : Abundance, 97 ; Great Soot, 105; The Admiral, 104 Primula Adonis, 235; P. brevi- folia, 207; P. florida, 207; P. gracilenta, 207; P. No. 2, 325; P. Podssonii, 352; P. Reinii, 214; P. Unique, 197 Primulas at Hillside, Readme, 120, 121 Purdom, Mr. W., portrait of, 337 Pyrus Malus Sargentii, 291 Raspberry Moth, the (Lampronia rubiella), 336 Reader, Mr. Frank, portrait of, 211 Roses : Hoosier Beauty, 223 ; Paul's Climber, 292; Queen of the Belgians, 226 S Saxifraga Irvingii, 158 ; S. Van- delii, 238 Scarborough nursery damaged by warship fire, 101 Senecio multibracteata, 273 Sitka Spruce at Durris, 146 Spades for entrenching, 250 Sutton and Sons' exhibit at the Chelsea Show, 285 Syringa Sweginzowii, 345 Thomson, David, portrait of the late, 160 Thuya obtusa in a Japanese garden, 164 ; T. plicata, plantation at Benmore, 147 Tulip " Winner," 274 W War Horticultural Relief Fund, collecting for the, at Chelsea Show, 282 Warren, Mr. W. Hedley, portrait of, 5 " White " medal, the, 125 Woodward, Lieut. Robert, portrait of the late, 279 Yucca filamentosa, 187 SUPPLEMENTARY ILLUSTRATIONS. *Begonia Scarlet Beauty (January 9). Brasso-Cattleya Cliftonii albens (February 27). Crataegus punctata growing in «.ochester, U.S.A. (June 12). 'Dai-lias Worth Star, Crawley Star and Lowfield Star (January 23). Dombeya calantha (March 27). Langley Park, Buckinghamshire (January 2). "Narcissus Red Beacon (May 8). * Paeon y La Lorraine (January 30). 'Primula Excelsior (April 10). "Pyracantha crenuiata (February 20). 'Rhododendrons at a Chelsea Show (May 22). •Roses : White Queen and Mis. A. Carnegie (February 6). *Tithonia speciosa (syn. Helianthus speciosus) (March 13). * Coloured Plates. (A m >« V -1 ■- K u. < «■> a n 0 >- b • x" 5„ -d d i o WEEI Postag "> s. 3 0. .2 sl*« 5™ao k ^ 2 :.. ^^-s^ o„ HHsn a 2; % QS3-5, "qifj^l ° So* 81" 5 "tit? 5-at*" ^ I ? 2 =0 = II « I .5 TS — 8-1 S -a a *£$k end" ■— «i0" to is -s v 5 = ° ^ = - »=i?Bq 5-&q = ■^SBIi-jiid = ££■30 I V- ! :J3: ■JS» "g'i h b^in^fr" &hb.3"W^ £ H fete «^H > BfcxmSt-1 £ H fe 1 l1 to c « ea © 1- ■3 ? -a a oi j«a k pjoJtcatZfli SB's 0: eo Sa»iS3Stt(2-5S PS Se- Es£ ^ 1 T.~. & EH fc. 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M wa H *£ fc. -/J XP-H & e &.« wSHSHfeaWS i -v in to r- « | O ,; ■ *Jm cc Z R a ■ E*- CO § ^1 2 SP^ dS > 0 bo 0 - 1 z Tfl *^ ^^ Sc « ffl = la l\¥ia 2-';; jz iSz -Ss a a a a?-^ IS IIS II, ! S3 g > c 5 m .► 13 Is i. -: I Is ? i i " I i s f 1 •is ." I » I I s ? g s s ? P ? ? s 3 I'D © I B> I 3 i a I CD I » a r W gm 13 -t »ti Ordinary Positions Facing Matter and Bac Half and quarter pages, 4 line space, single colu [/> ^^3 > H * •3 "a "Z R' > 3s» o 3 5 1 d p. s P TO Q If CO r CO B 5, 5* 3 o ■n a: > 33 m m S co hjj w'S =3 a o h n a ^ 8 .JU ■ S o t -3 S 3 2 Z ■3 3d R On ■3 3 0 § a PI CO H 5 : W 6- > ~ z - "a H o X! ^c . 1 -J V 00 ■a d > < m Q - » a. a> o^7" ' i 33 ^^hi 3 o T3 P a CD *3 c* - O -J CO 2 MO? ^ £2 ts ss r-i o a o » o oP- r> m V . SL H S ?' Q Om •; »» s ?! si »| 3 II I fig o-s g l fl c i Jo wo X = '" > _>n 3- ." 3 n g -B a ^ *» ! " 3 ft 3 ^£p§*-ta>^00^ 5/ » -j I 3 "I 8 S is 1 1 .3 I 0 s 1 ? T- ?B IP (^ a a is n CO January 2, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. THE (&axbmtx% CljnmurU No. 1,462.— SATURDAY, JANUARY g, 1915. CONTENTS. American notes — European war and business Apple crop in U.S. A. . . Berry-bearing shrubs in winter Books, notices of — A Manual of Wee Is .. Trees and Shrubs Hardy in the British Isles.. Chemistry of sick soils . . Citrus trifoliata, fruits of Dahlia trials at Duff ryn, 1913 Edinburgh fruit and vege- table market . . Farrer's, Mr. Reginald, explorations in China Gaultheria procumbens as a pot plant Hibiscus Waimeae Kelp industry in the Highlands, the.. Langley Park, Bucking- hamshire Latham, the late William Bradbury Loganberry, culture of the Novelties of 1914— Orchids 2 Ornamental trees and shrubs 19 Poui' dob amis franeais et beiges .. .. 9 " Royal Horticultural So- ciety's Journal " Sending plants abroad. Sir Joseph Hooker, the late, honour for Societies— Birmingham Hort. Debating Linnean Manchester and North of England Orchid . . Royal Horticultural.. Royal Meteorological United Hort. Benefit and Provident War items Week's work, the— Flower garden, the . . French garden, the . . Fruits under glass Hardy fruit garden, the Kitchen garden, the . . Orchid houses, the . . Plants under glass 10 10 11 12 10 11 11 12 ILLUSTRATIONS. Hibiscus Waimeae Langley Park, Buckinghamshire. (Supplementary Illus- tration.) Portraits of P. Aquatias, 5 ; T. W. Briscoe, 4 ; A. J. Cobb, 3; John Dunn, 5; John Highgate, 4; F. Jordan, 4, and W. Hedley Warren, 5. MR. REGINALD FARRER'S EXPLORATIONS IN CHINA.* VII.— SUMMER IN CHINA. UP on the mountains the air blows fresh and cool ; but down in the valleys of terraced cornfields the summer lies hot and heavy. All the banks are aflame with the scarlet of Lilium tenuifolium amid mounded lavender masses of a very delightful Aster of acris relationship, which always forms into a neat round dome, and flowers simulta- neously in such profusion that you can see its crowded blobs of lilac from far away on the green hills, amid the fiery haze of the Lilies. There is another Lily, too, but this is rarer, and begins only at higher elevations, in a more limited dis- trict. It haunts cool mountain slopes and river banks amid the coppice. I can- not perfectly recall the figure of L. Davidii (which I incline to believe this Lily to be), or I could be more certain as to what is, or is not, the name of this. L. Davidii on its recent introduction was hailed as a disappointment by com- parison with the seductive plate in Ehves' monograph ; but this dainty Lily could surely not be despised by anyone. \\ itli broader, clear-green leaves, it is a match in habit for L. tenuifolium, as that species grows here, noble and dainty, far ampler and more splendid than it is often seen in England. It at- » The previous articles by Mr. Fiirrer were published in "in- issues for September 12 ami 2(1, October 17 ami 31 ami November 14 and 28, 1914. tains some fifteen inches in height, and carries one, two or three pendant Marta- gon flowers of a cold ivory or paper-white, waxy in texture, and freckled rather un- necessarily with maroon along the inner margins of their segments. The flowers are larger and fatter than those of L. tenuifolium, and I find it an attractive beauty, as it hangs glacial and pure amid the scrub. Its site, soil and habit suggest little difficulty in its culture. But it can never have the brilliancy of L. tenuifolium as the Thibetans grow it; for they ram a handful of bulbs at hap- hazard into the hard mud of their flat roofs, and there above the eave sprouts a living pyramid of fire from year to year. In the mountain-marshes and over the fells one is for ever coming on little folds and dips that wring one's heart for the lack of Primula farinosa. Here its place is taken, in exactly the same way and the same serried phalanxes of pink, by P. conspersa, twelfth among my line of 15 Primulas. This is P. farinosa writ large, of habit precisely similar, but much taller in the scape, and with two tiers of blossom at least. Just above this, too, in clamp rich soil above the damp fold, on the rim of a corn-strip, Meconopsis quintuplinervis develops such a stature that I am quite ashamed of the plate and description I sent to the Gar- deners' Chronicle. For here, in this fat place, with moisture beneath, the clumps will be two feet through, with three-foot scapes — thirty or forty of them at that — each hanging out a huge shallow silken bell of blue, so rich and regal that at first sight one hardly recognises the plant. As for M. punicea, this I really dare not attempt, at first, to describe, for fear my flow of enthusiasm might lay me open to cavil. Never mind; peeve-cats shall never divert me from the path of praise. And Meconopsis punicea is the sight of a lifetime. You first come upon it in the upper stretches of Alpine valleys at about 9,000 or 10,000 feet. You are just growing weary with the long preliminary stodge when, ahead of you, in and out of the shady places, are seen hovering great butterflies of scarlet haunting the opener places of the glade and cool hollows, and little dips at the edge of the shrubbery. It is the Bed Poppy, stately and gracious, and splendid as no other of its race; it takes one's breath away. The only thing that at all suggests it in common experience is Ane- mone coronaria on the high downs of the Riviera. Yet how different is the Ane- mone's stiff-built, stiffly standing splen- dour, from the loose yet muscular out- spring of the Poppy's wide-expanded petals, leaping backward from the dark base in a strong fantastic curve verj' unlike the limp and flopping flags that are what one has always known of it at shows. It is a monstrous beauty up here ; there is something exotic about its silken and serpentine magnificence. Nor has its colour enough crudity of scarlet to com- pare with Poppy or Anemone ; it is rather a soft vermilion-rose,' just toned to a rich- ness that in no way muffles its flashing purity and translucence in the sunshine. It ascends to the high ridges at about 11.000 feet, and only there emerges from the skirts of the copse into the open turf. Here, along the grassy crests, are little hollows and glades ; and here the Meco- nopsis abounds in a more flaunting mag- nificence than ever, towering high over a dense firmament of upstanding mauve and gold single-flowered Asters, closely akin to A. diplostephioides. The picfure must be seen to be believed ; no eyes has one for other treasures, for whole delusive stretches of yellow Alp, coloured by a goggle-faced great Pedicularis, for a violet Mazus nestling in the turf, for rich re- minders of Primula Maximowiczii now stalwartly upstanding in seed ; for a pale Marina, for a golden little Trollius abounding, for a rare Aster near the last, but with very numerous narrow rays of darker purple, intensified by a disc of orange colour so brilliant as to be almost vermilion. All these ridges have a strangely box- pleated effect of light and dark, for they rise and fall in sharp angles like the folds of an accordion, and the north slope is always thick with woodland ; while in the south is nevei' a tree, but stretches of un- broken grassland. In this, just now, Potentilla Veitchii lies in clots of snow down by the base of each fold. These Fruticosa Potentillas, indeed, are very puzzling. Acknowledged P. Veitchii is white, but there is another here, indis- tinguishable from it, except that its crowded masses of blossom are deep golden yellow. And then, apparently from one extreme to the other, there ranges a chain of connecting links in every shade of yellow to the palest cream. Often one open stretch of bank will be girt and studded with a score of these low mounds of colour, no two of them the same in tone, with milk-white Veitchii at one end, and the deep golden one at the other. And this, again, affords a pleas- ing spectacle, especially when the fine turf is thick-set with Asters and a dwarf Dracocephalum with clustered heads of sapphire. In the shrubbery behind, Roses abound, and a dainty Lonicera, very close to L. thibetica (and perhaps no other), scents the wide air with its profuse clus- ters of crystalline little waxy-pink Hya- cinths. In and out among these go rambling two Clematids, the only two hitherto deserving of attention. One, with flowers like Golden Fritillaries, is compendiously known, I think, as C. orientalis tangutica obtusiuscula. Yet, I hope, it may prove a different thing, to earn a different name. The other is a really superb species ; it climbs or flops in wide mats: from branch or mat stand wirily up on long straight footstalks, pairs of huge white flowers as big as some Jackmannii hybrids (in the best forms) built of six overlapping ample-rounded segments, which complete the exhibition effect of the plant. Roth species are of universal occurrence in these Alpine shingles and coppices ; the latter has a wider range, and may be seen wreathing many a Kansu hedgerow in premature snowdrifts. Reginald Farrer, Jul;/, 191',. THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaky 2, 1915. NOVELTIES OF 1914. ORCHIDS. In making our usual summary of plant novelties during the past year, it should be borne in mind that, owing to arrangements rendered necessary by the war, the oppor- tunities for exhibiting novelties before the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society have been less numerous than usual. For instance, there were no shows on August 11 and 25, and on September 8 the accommoda- tion was very much curtailed, whilst on Septem- ber 22, in order to avoid again postponing the meeting, it was held in the Central Hall, West- minster. Many of our readers will remember how unsuitable this place proved for an exhibi- tion of plants, and exhibitor's and Fellows who were present will be likely the more fully to ap- preciate the great advantages they enjoy in the Society's hall in Vincent Square. In 1913, 37 First-class Certificates and 106 Awards of Merit were given. In 1914 35 First- class Certificates and 65 Awards of Merit were granted, and, considering the present abnormal circumstances, the production of good novelties during the past year lias been satisfactory, the high proportion of First-class Certificates even showing a distinct advance in quality. J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Brackenhurst, Pembury, Tunbridge Wells (gr. Mr. J. Davis), heads the list of certificated plants, both for quantity and quality. The removal of his Orchids to the fine new block of houses at Bracken- hurst worked wonders among the plants, and although he did not begin to show until the Holland House Exhibition, 7 First-class Cer- tificates and 4 Awards of Merit have been ac- corded to his new plants, and several Cultural Commendations to Mr. Davis. Mr. Gurney Fowler's First-class Certificate plants were : — Cattleya Irene, a large white ; Miltonia vexil- laria The Rev. W. Wilks, of large size and pure pink in colour ; Cattleya Oberon Princess Royal ; C. Rhoda Fowler's variety; Sophro- Cattleya No- vember ; Sophro-Laelia Felicia Fowler's variety ; and Laelio-Cattleya Mrs. Evelyn Nome. The Awards of Merit were for Cattleya Miss Louisa Fowler; C. Hardyana Rubens; C. amabilis Fowler's variety ; and C. Antiope. Lieut.-Col. Sir Geo. L. Holford, K.C.V.O., Westonbirt (gr. Mr. H. C. Alexander), who ex- hibited so well and continuously during the earlier half of the year, has been prevented by his military duties from continuing his fine displays in the latter half, and his exhibits have been much missed. He received in the first four months of the year First-class Certificates for Odontoglossum Mogul ; Sophro- Cattleya Wellesleyae, of bright-red colour ; and Cypripedium Julian ; and Awards of Merit f or Cymbidium G-ottianum Westonbirt variety ; Oclontioda Royal Gem ; and 0. Margaret (both the latter being Westonbirt hybrids) ; Cypri- pedium Mogul ; and Laelio-Cattleya Ariel. The companion hybrid of Laelia Cowanii — L.JC. Tigris, with two spikes of yellow flowers, was awarded a Cultural Commendation. Baron Bruno Schroder, The Dell, Englefield Green (gr. Mr. J. E. Shill), sustained his reputa- tion for Odontoglossums, and obtained First- class Certificates for 0. crispum The Baroness, 0. Helmuth and 0. Colossus, the last-named a finely-blotched flower ; and Awards of Merit for 0. illustrissimum The Dell variety ; 0. eximium The Dell variety; Cattleya Astron, pure white ; C. Trianae Mrs. De B. Crawshay ; and The Dell form of Brasso-Cattleya Ilene. Cypripedium Pyramus received a First-class Certificate on February 10 ; reference to our illustration of this and many of the other novel- ties noted will be found in the appended list. F. Menteith Ogilvie, Esq., The Shrubbery, Oxford (gr. Mr. Balmforth), showed Odontioda Zenobia (Odontioda Charlesworthii x Odonto- glossum percultum), one of the most remarkable Orchids of the year, which secured a First-class Certificate on March 24. Similar awards were granted to Cattleya Tityus Shrubbery variety and Odontoglossum percultum King George ; and an Award of Merit (November 3) to Laelio- Cattleya Neleus var. Sunspot. Mr. Balmforth also secured Cultural Commendations for speci- mens of Cyprdpedium Lawrenceanum Hyeanum Bank House variety; Odontioda Mrs. F. M. Ogilvie, with 60 flowers; and Odontioda Diana, with 177 blooms. Pantia Ralli, Esq., Ashtead Park, Surrey, whose collection has steadily improved in every respect, received Awards of Merit for Odonto- glossum Canary (one of the best light-yellow Odontoglossums) ; O. Elissa, dark purple ; On- cidioda Cooksoniae Grenadier, deep scarlet ; Cymbidium Schlegelii punctatum ; and the pretty yellow-petalled Laelio-Cattleya Lady Oliphant. Mrs. Norman Cookson, Oakwood, Wylam (gr. Mr. H. J. Chapman), has shown on several occasions collections of hybrid Odontoglossums and Odontiodas, gaining Awards of Merit for Odontioda Doris and O. Sibyl, raised at Oak- wood. Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart., Gatton Park (gr. Mr. Collier), obtained a well-merited First- class Certificate for Dendrobium Lady Colman, which most experts consider to be the best hy- brid Dendrobium. Odontiodas have also been well shown from Gatton Park, and Mr. Collier obtained a Cultural Commendation (March 24) for Odontioda Bradshawiae with 119 flowers. Nurserymen. Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. showed good novelties at all the meetings of the past year, receiving First-class Certificates for Odontoma Charlesworthii (Miltonia vexillaria x Odonto- glossum Uro-Skinneri), a very beautiful and interesting hybrid ; and Odontoglossum Queen Alexandrina, a showy flower; Awards of Merit for Cypripedium Desdemona, Odontoma Lucilia (which also secured for the raiser a Cer- tificate of Appreciation), 0. Magali Sander var. xanthotes, Odontoglossum Irene, 0. Dusky Monarch, Miltonia vexillaria Lyoth, Odontioda Joan, and several excellent new Laelio-Cattleyas. Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, who excel in Miltonias, obtained First-class Cer- tificates for M. vexillaria Laelia Sander, the first of a race with a yellow shade ; and M. v. illustris. They also obtained Awards of Merit for Phalaenopsis Ariadne, Cattleya Magali Sander, Odontonia Roger Sander, Laelio-Cattleya Dulce ; and, at the last meeting of the year, for L.-C. Sir Douglas Haig — a good representative of a favourite class. Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbridge, secured 4 First-class Certificates for Odonto- glossum Mirabeau var. Mastiff, 0. King Arthur (two superb novelties), Odontioda Bradshawiae Perfection, and 0. Diana var. Gladys. Cattleya Tityus var. A. McBean and Laelio-Cattleya Thyone McBean's variety also secured Awards. Messrs. Armstrong and Brown, Orchid- hurst, Tunbridge Wells, received First-class Certificates for Miltonia J. Gurney Fowler and M. The Baroness, and Awards of Merit for Brasso-Cattleya Shilliana, Odontoglossum Sand- hurstiense (a remarkable cross between coro- narium and F.dwardii), O. Chantecleer, and Cattleya Ajax Orchidhurst variety. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Jarvisbrook, Sussex, received the highest Award at Chelsea Show for Laelio-Cattleya Haroldiana Bronze King, of a new tint. Awards of Merit were obtained at Holland House for Cymbidium Venus and Laelio-Cattleya Aphrodite Our Queen. Messrs. Hassall and Co., Southgate, have shown many fine hybrids, their best being Laelio-Cattleya Sybil var. Lord Kitchener, a charming flower of rich colour. Messrs. Mansell and Hatcher, Rawdon, Yorks, showed Odontonia Cleverleyana. Messrs. E. H. Davtdson and Co., Twyford, obtained a First-class Certificate for the pure- white Laelia pumila alba Orchid Dene variety, and Awards for Cattleya iridescens aurifera and Sophro-Laelia Niobe Orchid Dene variety. Messrs. Flory and Black, Slough, are obtain- ing good results from the Veitchian hybrids ac- quired by them, and took First-class Certificates for Laelio-Cattleya Medina Excelsior and Odon- toglossum crispum Millie. Other exhibitors have shown good novelties, the best of which will be found enumerated in list. Our periodical lists of hybrids flowering for the first time indicate that a large supply of good hybrids are in course of development, to say nothing of the thousands of different crosses approaching flowering size in various collections. Continental Exhibits. Monsieur Flrmin Lambeau, Brussels, showed specimens from his fine collection, and especially the extraordinary new Vuylstekeara insignis. Monsieur Peeters secured at the Holland House Show an. Award of Merit for the singular species Renanthera pulchella. Monsieur Chas. Vuylsteke, Loochristy. Ghent, exhibited at the Chelsea Show a batch of good novelties, securing a First-class Certifi- cate for Miltonia Princess Victoria Alexandra, and Awards of Merit for M. Hyeana Adonis and Odontioda Prince de Galles. Monsieur H. Graire, Amiens, received Awards of Merit for Cochlioda Graireana and Oncidioda Mauricii. Let us hope that the establishments of our French and Belgian confreres may escape de- struction, and that we shall see more of their products in England after the war. The following new and rare Orchids have been illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle in 1914 :— Brasso-Cattleya Shilliana, May 23. p. 354. Bulbophyllum Fletcherianum, May 9, p. 321. Calanthe Siebertiana, January 10, p. 28. Cattleya Irene, July 4, p. 13. Cattleya Mossiae, white varieties, Supplement, Octo- ber 3. Cattleva Fercivaliana alba Lady Holford, January 3, p. 10. Cattleya Trianae var. Hydra (96 flowers), March 7. p. 159. Cattleya Trianae Mrs. Phillips, February 21, p. 136. Cattleya Warscewiczii (23 flowers). July 18, p. 62. Cirrhopetalum Mastersianum, February 21, p. 122. Cymbidium Alexanderi H. Smith's variety, Feb. 28, 'p. 153. Cymbidium Schlegelii punctatum, January 24, p. 50. Cypripedium Desdemona, January 31, p. 77. Cypripedium Julian, January 17, p. 45. -Cypripedium Maudiae, Coloured Supplement, April 11. Cypripedium Pyramus, Feb. 14, p. 114. Dendrobium superbum Huttonii Southfield var., April 11, p. 247. Grammatophyllum speciosum, November 14, p. 325. Laelia pumila alba Orchid Dene var., October 24, p. 283. Laelio-Cattleya Haroldiana Bronze King. May 23, p. 356. Laelio-Cattleya Medina Excelsior, May 30. p. 371. Laelio-Cattleya Miss Louisa Fowler, August 8, p. 115. Miltonia J. Gurney Fowler, May 30, p. 372. Miltonia vexillaria Laelia Sander, Supplement, August 29. Miltonia vexillaria Rev. W. Wilks. July 18, p. 61. Odontioda Bradshawiae Perfection. May 23, p. 356. Odontioda Zenobia, March 28, p. 226. Odontoglossum amabile Ashland's var., January 31, p. 69. Odontoglossum Canary, January 17, p. 44. Odontoglossum Colossus. March 7, p. 158. Odontoglossum King Arthur, June 27, p. 456. Odontoglossum Lakinae, May 9. p. 310. Odontoglossum Mirabeau var. Mastiff, April 25, p. 289. Odontoglossum Mogul, May 2, p. 295. Odontoglossum Sandhurstianum, January 31, p. 76. Odontonia Cleverlevana. July 11. p. 29. Odontonia Cbarleswortkii, August 8, p. 107. Odontonia Magali Sander var. xanthotes, October 31, p. 288. Oncidioda Mauricii, May 16, p. 326. Oncidium corynephorum, August 1, p. 100. Oncidiuin Leopoldianum. August 1, p. 99. Sareanthus robustum, January 10. p. 21. Sophro-Cattleya November, November 28, p. 351. Sophro-Laelia Felicia Fowler's var.. November 7, p. 312. Vuylstekeara insignis, July 4, p. 14. January 2, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. AMERICAN NOTES. THE EUROPEAN WAR AND BUSINESS. General business in the United States is quite depressed ; conditions are improving a little, but it is a long time since we had so many idle men and women. At this time, when Christmas is only ten days away, there is a very fair business being done in goods appropriate to the festive season ; but it is far below that of former years. Prices also are severely cut. The cut-flower industry has held up remark- ably well — better, in fact, than the majority of trades — but prices are very much lower than in former years and the volume of purchases has been materially reduced. The cessation of tourist travel to Europe cut off one large and growing branch of the florists' trade. Flowers in very large quantities have been used for out-going tourist* ; this has now entirely ceased. There 16 also less social activity. Many of our wealthy citizens are planning to stay in their country houses in preference to city homes during the winter, which is the busy season here socially. With less entertaining there are less decorations. All things considered, however, the flower in- dustry has held up remarkably well. While Americans are the most liberal buyers of flowers in the world, and pay prices which would be considered very high in Europe, we have an immense population here which buys practically no flowers, unless, it may be, at Memorial Day, when the decorating of graves Tequires large quantities. The principal reason ^for this is the high prices charged by the re- tailers, as the store men are called. The growers ■and wholesalers sell at very moderate prices. In the wholesale markets, however, no retail "buying is allowed. Owing to the growing glut there is now some agitation in Boston to either admit the general public to wholesale markets after certain hours or devise some other means whereby the surplus which is now wasted can be -disposed of satisfactorily. Christmas Plants. There is each year an increasing demand 'for plants at Christmas and Easter. The most popular Christmas plants are Cyclamens, Poinsettias (usually made-up pans containing several plants), Azaleas (the call is very good Jfor such varieties as Hexe, Mme. Patrick, Xorraine, etc.) ; Gloire de Lorraine and Glory •of Cincinnati, Begonias (these are sold in im- mense numbers), Primulas, Erica melan/thera, 'Camellias, and such berried plants as Ardisia • crenulata and Solanum Capsicastrum. Otaheite Oranges have a big sale ; some growers have . ■eight or ten large houses of these. One large grower has 25,000 Cyclamens in 5, 6 and 7 inch pot6 for Christmas. Amongst foliage plants Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis sells heavily; also N. Scottii, todeaoides, N. elegantissima, N. Harrisii, Scholzelii, and others ; Ficus elast.ica, F. pandu- rata, Pandanus Veitchii, Crotons, Dracaenas, Phoenix Roebelenii, Areca lutescens, Kentia Balmoreana, Adiantum Farleyense, A. gloriosum and A. cuneatum, Ananas sativus variegatus, iCocos Weddelliana and Araucaria excelsa. Christmas Gut Flowers. We have a very large assortment of cut flowers always available for Christmas. Roses come first •in importance. Of these American Beauty is still the highest-priced -variety;; next comes Ophelia (this has made a wonderful impression heTe), Mrs. Charles Russell, Hadley, Mrs. ■George .'Shawyer and Richmond. The two leading yellows are Sunburst and Mrs. Aaron Ward ; these are both very popular. Of the more common varie- ties the leaders are Killarney, White Killarney, Killarney Queen, Killarney Brilliant, Prince de Bulgarie and Lady Hillingdon. Irish Fire Flame has a fair sale a6 a single Rose, and Mme. Cecile Brunner, a pretty little Polyailtha, has also be- come popular. .Carnations follow Roses in popularity. The varieties most in favour with growers are Pink Delight, Matchless, White Wonder, Champion, Beacon, Benora, White Enchantress, En- chantress and Mrs. C. W. Ward. Single Violets are far more popular than doubles; Princess of Wales (single) and Lady Hume Campbell are practically the only sorts grown. A few late Chrysanthemums are available ; it is worthy of note that Pompons and singles grow in favour here. Winter-blooming Spencer Sweet Peas are fairly abundant. Other flowere include Lily-of- the-Valley, Roman Hyacinths, Paper-white Nar- cissi, Stevia, Callas, Lilium longiflorum, Antir- rhinums, yellow Marguerites, English Prim- roses, double Cornflowers, Calendulas, Mig- nonette, Myosotis and Bouvardia. There is a good supply of Cattleyas, Cypripediums and other Orchids, while Gardenias are fine in quality. America and the War. It is very pleasing to those of us who are British-born to know that American sympathy is overwhelmingly with the Allies in the great war. Pro-German feeling in the East is a negligible quantity. Amei-ieans are subscribing very liberally to the Ked Ctcgs, Belgian and other relief funds. I am sure, when the time comes for re-establishing our French and Bel- gian confreres in business, that an appeal made to the horticulturists of America will not be in vain. At the same time we all earnestly hope that peace may come sooner than at this time seems possible. William N. Craig, Brookline, Mass., U.S.A. The Week's Work. NOTICES OF BOOKS. A Manual of Weeds.* The author of this manual is to be congrat- ulated on the production of an excellent book; and so also is the artist, F. Schuyler Mathews, who is responsible for the admirably clear text figures with which the work is illustrated. The plan of the work is simple. After brief introductory chapters the weeds are described one by one, and in the majority of cases each is accompanied by an illustration. Each descrip- tion contains not only a simple botanical diag- nosis, but also information with respect to the origin, flowering time, range and habit of the weed, and — particularly useful to the farmer and gardener — a statement of what is known as to the best means by which the weed may be de- ist royed. The author appears to assume some know- ledge of systematic botany; an assumption which may perhaps be justified so far as Amer- ican readers are concerned, but one which is, we fear, too sanguine if applied to the general reader in this country. In any case, she has not supplied an analytical key of the orders, so that anyone without the elements of systematic botany would be compelled to rely for identification on the method of hit and miss. There may be good reasons for the omission, but if there are not we recommend strongly the inclusion in the next edition of an ordinal key. Although plant descriptions are generally and almost inevitably tedious, those in this manual are not. They have a charm difficult to diagnose but potent; each is a model of terseness and accuracy — a vignette portrait of an offender who, though he must be punished for his naughtiness, is by no means unloved by the judge who pro- nounces sentence. Americans, like the English, have a curious fondness for statistics, and will be interested to know tha/t the loss from weeds in Wheat in the State of Minnesota is not less than 2,000,000 dollars per annum. The introductory chapters are valuable and — as they should be — brief, and deal with the nature and dissemination oi weeds and with chemical " Herbicides" — the only in- felicitous word in a singularly well-wnitten book. • A Manual of Weeds. Hy A kinds. Of coloured sports, Malus Niedz- wetzkyana, derived from the common Apple in all probability, is a curious example, all parts of the tree, including even the young wood, showing a beautiful red colour. The Balkan States have given us some excellent novelties in recent years, as the Shipka Pass variety of the common Laurel, Picea Omorika from the Drina Valley, and Forsythia europaea discovered in Albania in 1897 — showing that even in Europe there were till lately (and perhaps even now) plants unknown to the botanist. Someone, perhaps, will try to procure seed of the rarest Silver Fir (Abies nebro- densis), of which a few trees exist in Sicily and Calabria. The book is remarkably free from errors, but some of its statements might be criticised. Athrotaxis laxifolia is much hardier than is said, as a tree at Durris, in Kincardineshire, has withstood for many years severe winter frost and pro- duced seed from which numerous seed- lings have been raised. Larix occidentalis is distinctly different in appearance from the common Larch, all the trees we have seen having remarkably short branches, the crown assuming a narrow form, unlike the wide-spreading habit of L. europaea. _4) "a o e OS « o Pi fcl. o a u w Q en W Pi a X < o z s u pa OS <; p., >• w *j o 2: «c < Q Z o Ph u X H January 2, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. Our Supplementary Illustration. The subject for the Coloured Plate to be published with our next issue is Begonia Scarlet Beauty. War Items. — On Christmas morning we heard from an authentic source that M. Louis Genth, Curator of the State Botanical Gardens, and editor of the Tribune Borticole, was still officiating at his post in Brussels. There are some signs that the severity caused by the war in France is slacken- ing, so far at any rate as horticulture is con- cerned. We have already in a former issue pointed out that the members of the National Horticultural Society of France are contem- plating 3 resumption of their meetings. Con- sidering the large number of gardeners and nurserymen at the front, this is decidedly encouraging. But another sign is the re- appearance of some of the horticultural pipers. Since the war began these have all been discontinued, and it is therefore with some pleasure that we have received this week the first copies of revived horticultural papers. The first of these was La Revue d' Horticulture pratique. The new copy to hand is numbered 12 and 13, and dated August-September. The second to hand is V Horticulture francaise, No. 92, and dated December. This is a well- known trade journal, and the number consists of 48 pages. The editor promises in his next issue to publish a list of all those engaged in the nursery trade who have been wounded or who have been killed in the war. There is a mass of literary matter interesting to the trade, and especially a large selection of extracts from the world's horticultural Press relating to the effects of the war on horticulture generally. In Belgium, of course, no horticultural papers have appeared since the war began, nor are they likely to until the German hosts have been swept out of the country. L' Horticulture francaise, in pointing out the difficulty of reappearing under existing circumstances, asks for the assis- tance of its readers in advertising. A very pertinent enquiry is urged by the editor in the following query : — How do you expect people to know you have something to sell if you do not make it known? M. Emile Thiebaut, seedsman, of Paris, •has been taken prisoner by the Germans and is now interned at Torgau in Saxony. M. Thiebaut was in 1892-93 the Secretary of the French Horticultural Society of London, and has, since his return to France, acted as the Secretary to the Paris Com- mittee of the same society. In recognition of valuable services to the society in that capacity M. Thiebaut was on the occasion of the Schneider banquet in Paris in November, 1907, presented with a silver fruit stand. Many of the men between the ages of 18 and 40 in the employ of Messrs. John K. King and Sons, Coggeshall, have joined the colours. Mr. Herbert King forwarded to each of these men a box of Christmas delicacies, consisting of plum puddings, chocolates, cakes, etc., not only to those who are at the front, but to those who are with their regiments in England. ■ During the war Lady Hanbury is not issuing a catalogue of the seeds collected at La Mortola in 1914. Correspondents wishing for a few seeds are asked to indicate the numbers in last year's catalogue in the usual way to Signor Berger, La Mortola, Ventimiglia, Italy. Mr. W. Dick, brother of Mr. J. Har- rison Dick, editor of The Florists' Exchange (U.S.A.), has been killed in action at the front. Mr. Dick, a Scotsman, who left these shores for America, only last year, has another brother in the 1st Australian Contingent. The Late Sir Joseph Hooker Honoured by Japan.— At the meeting of the Linnean Society held on the 17th ult., the secretary, Dr. 0. Staff, read a letter addressed by Dr. Tokutaro Ito, F.L.S., of Tokyo, to Lady Hooker, in which he informs her that Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker " has been recently selected by the contemporaries in Japan as one of the Twenty-nine Heroes of the World that Modern Time has produced." The Proposed New Fruit and Vegetable Market for Edinburgh.— From the recent meeting of the Edinburgh Market Gardeners' Association it is apparent that the opposition of the market gardeners to the change of the market from the Waverley Market to New Street is unaffected by the efforts being made to induce them to favour the scheme. Bailie Rose, who was present as convener of the Town Council Markets Committee, spoke in favour of the proposal, but it was evident that the market ga.rdeners, as a whole, are almost unani- mous in opposing the scheme. The Late Mr. John M'Meekin.— Among the inventories of estates lodged with the Sheriff-Clerk of Lanarkshire is that of the late Mr. John M'Meekin, florist and horticulturist, Hillhead, Glasgow, with a total of £10,163 13s. lOd. The Kelp Industry in the Highlands.— In connection with the movement for the in- creased production of kelp in the Highlands as a means of adding to the supply of potash for manure, the Argyll County Council has ap- pointed a small committee. The duties of this committee are to keep in touch with the Board of Agriculture for Scotland in promoting the industry. Gaultheria procumbens as a Pot Plant. — Messrs. Barr and Son send us a specimen of the well-known hardy plant Gaultheria procum- bens, grown in a pot and bearing a considerable number of its bright red berries. Provided specimens are induced to fruit very freely, the species is sufficiently decorative with its dull reddish-purple leaves to be valuable in certain forms of indoor decoration. Fruits of Citrus trifoliata.— Mr. P. C. M. Veitch sends us a fruit of Citrus tTifoliata gathered from a tree in the Exeter nurseries. The Japanese Orange is not common in gardens, for although the tree is generally regarded as hardy in this country, it apparently requires a favoured district. Mt. Veitch informs us that the tree has floweTed well for some years past, but this is the first season that it has fruited. The fruits are illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle, November 18, 1893, fig. 102, from specimens sent us by Canon Ellacombe, Bitton Vicarage, Bristol. The Chemistry of Sick Soils.— A sub- ject of investigation which gives promise of interesting results is the isolation from soils of specific chemical substances which exert a bene- ficial or adverse effect on plant growth. This work has been prosecuted with considerable success by Dr. Schreiner, and has now resulted in the discovery that an aldehyde, probably sali- cylic aldehyde, may be extracted from sick soils which have been used in intensive greenhouse culture. The aldehyde thus extracted has a markedly toxic effect on the growth of plants. Apple Crop in U.S.A. — The National Nurseryman states that the condition of the Apple crop on September 1 in the United States is estimated at 61.9 per cent, of normal, compared with a ten-year average of 55.6 per cent. This condition is interpreted as forecasting a total production of about 220,000.000 bushels. The forecast on August 1 was 210,000,000 bushels. These estimates are based upon a reported total production of 145,000,000 bushels in 1909 by the United States Census, and taking into account changes in condition since then. The Surveyors Institution.— The next ordinary general meeting will be held in the Lecture Hall of the institution on Monday, January 11, at 8 p.m., when the adjourned dis- cussion on the papers delivered by Mr. Andrew Young and Mr. L. O. Mathews on " The Report of the Land Enquiry Committee on the Acquisi. tion of Land " will be reopened by Mr. Howard Martin (Past-President). Publications Received. — Cotton Cultiva- tion in the West Indies. The Imperial Depart- ment of Agriculture for the West Indies. (West India Committee, 15, Seething Lane,. E.G.) Price 9d.— Report on the Botanic and Experiment Station, Tortola, Virgin Islands, 1913-14. (The Imperial Commissioner of Agri- culture for the West Indies.) Price 3d. — Web- ster's Foresters' Diary for 1915. (William- Rider & Son, Ltd., London.) Price 2s. 6d.— The Tropical Agriculturist. Vol. XLIIL, No. 5. Journal of the Ceylon Agricultural Society, Peradeniya, Ceylon. November, 1914. (Colombo:: H. W. Cave and Co.) — Report on Proposed Park System for the City of Dayton, Ohio. (Massachusetts : Olmsted Brothers, Brookline.) — Flora of Jamaica. Vol. III. By William Faweett and Alfred Barton Rendle. (Printed by order of the Trustees of the British Museum,. Cromwell Road, London, S.W. Price 15s. LANGLEY PARK. (See Supplementary Illustration.] Sir Robert Harvey, the owner of Langley Park, Buckinghamshire, has two absorbing in- terests. To sportsmen he is known as an in- trepid big game shot, and his museum contains trophies which have fallen to his rifie in Austria, Norway, the Soudan, East Africa, Siam, Bur- mah, India, North America, and Newfoundland, and amongst these trophies is the record head of the Sudani race of the giant eland. In the intervals of his many trips abroad Sir Robert follows the less adventurous pursuit of gardening. The impression which Langley Park gives the visitor is that of gardens within a garden, and although these are complete in themselves and of different styles, yet each has that family likeness which is necessary to make a homogeneous and satisfying whole. Although they are enclosed and separate, each garden — the Bamboo garden, the hardy flower garden, the Pinetum, as examples — is characterised by breadth and openness. Of the main garden features it. is difficult to say which is the most pleasing. For quiet promenade and meditation, the long grass-bordered walk enclosed by formal clipped hedges from which one may pass through delight- ful old iron gates to the Pinetum at one end, or to the sundial garden which contains wonderful clumps of Bamboos set boldly apart in a smooth green lawn, would- undoubtedly be chosen. The collection of Bamboos is noteworthy more for the luxuriance of the individual clumps than for variety. Here are to be seen Arundinaria. nitida, A. Simonsii, A. Hindsii, Bambusa Metake, B. aurea striata, Phyllostachys Henonis, and P. aurea as dense, isolated masses of impenetrable greenery, fully 25 feet across, rising from cool, green, closely mown turf, contrasting with the sword-like leaves of Phormiums, and with a background of the luxuriant trees which give " Leafy Bucks " its name. From this seques- tered retreat the way leads to borders of hardy and half-hardy shrubs — Camellias, Rhododen- drons, Magnolias, Deutzias, Hydrangea panicu- lata, and many other genera — to the Japanese garden where a pool of magnificent Water Lilies is bordered by the graceful, arching plumes of Arundinaria nitida, by the mammoth leaves of Gunneras and stately Palms, amid which the purple foliage of Primus Pissartii contrasts vividly. Standards of Magnolia grandiflora are studded with large fragrant blossoms, which per- fume the air throughout the long summer's day, and beside them arc equally large examples of Buch spring-flowering species as Magnolia obm aita and M. eonspicua. Here is to be seen the original Davidia involucrata, which Messrs. James 8 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jakuahy 2, 1915. Veitch received from China, growing in a native bowl. This specimen, when it opened a soli- tary flower in 1911 at the Coombe Wood Nursery, was the first to flower in this country. Purchased by Sir Robert at the sale last autumn, it was planted out in the Japanese garden, where it flowered during last spring, and now appears to be thoroughly established. During the eajrly summer, from an immense specimen of Wistaria multijuga hang racemes of lilac flowers well over two feet long. On another wall Wistaria brachybotrys bears many pods of Runner-Bean- line fruits. In another enclosure Crinodendron Hookerianum was fruiting, and the flower buds, already prominent and tipped with red, promise a good display for next year. The upper growths of Solan um jasminoides were hidden by the clusters of white flowers, and a large and very old example of Tecoma (Bignonia) radicans bore many trusses of rich red brick walls. In the borders, which are bounded by low Box hedges, an assortment of the best hardy herbaceous plants has been in- troduced, which makes a gorgeous display. The long Rose border, filled principally with Tea and Hybrid Tea varieties, with a screen of climbing sorts at the back, is another delightful floral feature. In the Pine turn there are goodly trees of Abies grandis, A. nobilis, Araucaria imbricata, Crypto- meria japonica, and various Cedars and Pines, and although none of them is of record size many have attained more than the average height of their kind, and these, rising tall and shapely above the mown grass, make a fascinating and yet restful picture. A small pool contains hardy Water Lilies, but of even more interest is the adjoining Sarracenia bed, where S. Courtii, S. Patter sonii, S. exoniensis, S. Swaniana, and Darlingtonia californica flourish. In the shrub- ■:* i mi Fig. 1. — hibiscus waimeae : corolla white, upper part of staminal tube and anthers rich crimson. reddish-orange trumpet-shaped flowers. Pome- granates, Magnolias, both grandiflora and con- spicua, and many other climbing shrubs, clothed "the outer walls of the museum. Beside num- bers of the hybrid Rhododendrons many of the species and varieties which are associated with the mildest districts of our islands seem to be perfectly happy in the warm and sheltered en- closures. Of these Rhododendrons Falconeri, Griffithianum, Thompsonianum, Gill's Triumph, and Gill's Goliath may be mentioned. The herbaceous borders are a comparatively new feature, and have been greatly extended ■under the supervision of the young and enthusi- astic gardener, Mr. W. Willeocks, who has had charge of the fine gardens during the past few years. For a long time the site of the herbaceous borders was a kitchen garden, and now, instead of fruit trees, such shrubs as Teucrium fruticans, Indigofera Gerardiana, Ceanothus rigidus, G. Veitchianus, and Magnolia Watsonii, clothe the bery, which forms the further boundary of the Pinetum, there are many spring-flowering shrubs, and a comprehensive collection of hardy Heaths. At the far end several very large trees of Sequoia gigantea stand sentinel-like over a life-sized Japanese bronze, depicting a priest seated on a Sacred Bull. The Flower Garden. With so many other floral features the formal garden at the south front does not assume the importance which is generally given to this de- partment in country estates, but at Langley Park it is of much more than average size. Here the surroundings on three sides are large trees nearly all of green foliage, so that a vivid display of bloom is required, and last season it was supplied chiefly by massed bedding Pelargoniums and Calceolaria Golden Gem. In the centre, at the cross walks, stands the most beautiful Italian well head it has been my fortune to see. Below the flower garden terrace an enormous Cedar of Lebanon spreads its " dark green layers of shade " over a great space, and the lower limbs rest on the ground, but, unfortunately, several of the upper branches have been torn away by winds. The rockery was greatly extended last year, when large boulders of sandstone from Gloucester- shire were plaeed in position and planted with Alpines. At the same time an indoor Fernery on a large scale wa6 also made by Messrs. Pul- ham and Sons, which in a couple of years' time will . be exceedingly interesting. Already amongst the huge sandstone boulders in the Fernery Todea superba, T. arborea, T. pellucida, Trichornanes scandens, Microlepia speluncae, Polystichum triangulatum laxum, and Wood- wardia radicans have filled the space allotted to them. In the Winter Garden such permanent sub- jects as Seaforthia elegans, Kentia x osteriana, Rhapis humilis, Dicksonia antarctica, Cyathea dealbata, and Clivea miniata are planted out in large beds, and to them are added various flower- ing plants in their seasons. A. C. B. HIBISCUS WAIMEAE. The genus Hibiscus includes a large number of well-known garden plants, but none is more beautiful than the new H. Waimeae (see fig. 1), which belongs to a small group that includes H. rosa-sinensis. In 1911 a plant of H. Waimeae w-as received at Kew Gardens from a C'alifornian nursery under the name of H. Ar- nottianus, a name that appears to have been given to three distinct species, thereby causing much confusion. Mr. Sprague has, however, determined their aflinkies, and in describ- ing these species he proposes to drop the name Arnottianus altogether. (See Kew Bulletin, 1914, pp. 45-47.) H. Waimeae is planted in a border at the south end of the Mexican House at Kew, where it has formed a large shrub about 12 feet high. It thrives in a light, loamy soil, the house having a minimum temperature of 50° in winter. During the past summer the plant flowered pro- fusely from July to the end of October. The single, pure-white flowers are from 4 to 5 inches in diameter, whilst the staminal column is 6 inches long and of a rich crimson colour. The leaves are broadly ovate, from 4 to 6 inches long, 3 to 5 inches wide, and netted with pur- plish veins. The species is a native of the Hawaiian Islands, and is figured in Bot. Mag., t. 8547. W. T. CULTURAL MEMORANDA. THE. LOGANBERRY. Pruning the Loganberry consists in cut- ting out the old fruit-bearing canes of last season soon after the fruits are picked, and this having been done, the growths of the current season should now be trained to the fence, pole or trellis. Allow the shoots plenty of space, as the Loganberry is an exceptionally strong grower. It is, moreover, a very hardy plant, and can be depended upon to flourish in cold soils and wind-swept situations, where the Raspberry will not succeed. The nature of the soil need not be considered ; a deep, strong loam, enriched with manure, is a suitable rooting medium. Where space is limited, it is a capital plan to train Loganberries on fences or a trellis, and grown thus they make capital screens for dividing flower-borders from the vegetable quarters in the kitchen garden. If planting is contemplated, and the ground not already trenched, let the work be done without delay, and the young canes planted at the first favourable opportunity. Small, healthy plants are to be preferred to laTge stools, as the former start into growth much better. Plant firmly, and arrange a light mulch over the roots. J. G Weston. January 2, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (8). LA RECONSTRUCTION DES VILLES ANEANTIES. Les architected auront fort a faire pour reparer les ruines causecs par 1'invasion alle- mande en Belgique et dans le Nord de la France. Les villes de Dinant, Louvain, Malines, Ter- monde, Ypres, Lille, Reims, sont en grande partie detruites, et apres des semaines d'une canonnade ininterrompue, des milliers d'habita- tions doivent etre abattues sur l'immense front qui s'etend de Nieuport a Belfort. Lors du travail considerable de reconstruction, il sera tenu compte des exigences du confort moderne et dans les agglomerations il sera reserve plus d'air et plus d'espace a chaque famille. Mais il importe que les personnalites qui auront a diriger ce travail ne perdent pas de vue rimportance qui, dans les quartiers nouveaux, devra etre accordee a 1'horticulture. II semble superflu de chereher a les convaincre des avan- tages materiels et moraux que presentent pour l'ouvrier et le petit bourgeois rexploitation d'uii jardin maraicher, la culture de quelques fleurs et plantes ornementales. Apres la guerre un travail methodique fera beaucoup au point de vue de la vulgarisation horticoie dans ces milieux. Les applications seront des plus faciles ; l'experience acquise permettra de guider les bonnes volontes et de faire aboutir tous les efforts. Au cours des dernieres annees, en effet, des resultats patents ont ete obtenus dans des centres industriels, notamment dans le Limbourg beige, oil la mise en exploitation du nouveau bassin houiller a necessite 1'erection de villages ouvriers, a Dudelange (Grand-Duche de Luxem- bourg"), qui possede une belle cite-jardin, a Lens, a iSceaux, etc., ou l'oeuvre des jardins-ouvriers est des plus appreciee. L'Angleterre fournit de nombreux exernples de ce que 1'horticulture peut faire pour egayer la vie. Dans aucun pays au rnonde la bourgeoisie ne tient autant a posseder un pare, a faire croitre dans son propre jardin des fruits, des legumes, des fleurs, a garnir les appartements de plantes decoratives. A Londres meme, du moment que Ton s'ecarte des quartiers industriels et com- merciaux, toutes les maisonnettes sont precedees d'un jardinet coquettement entretenu. Au point de vue qui nous occupe, les indica- tions les plus utiles sont peut-etre fournies par The Garden Cities and Town Planning Asso- ciation, dont le siege est etabli dans Gray's Inn Place, 3, Londres, W.C. Cette societe s'occupe de 1'erection de eitee-jardins et de 1 'amenagement des habitations selon les principes de 1'architecture et de 1'horticulture; elle est notamment reputee par le travail accompli dans la nouvelle cite de Letchworth. En vue de faire profiter de son experience les refugies des regions envahies, elle a decide d'organiser une serie de conferences donnees par des specialistes. Les Beiges et Frangais interesses a la chose seront invites a assister a ces conferences, qui auront lieu dans un bref delai a Londres. LA GUERRE ET L'HORTICULTURE EN FRANCE. Notts avons eu l'occasion de signaler deja que petit ii petit les affaires Teprennent dans 1'hor- ticulture frangaise, malgre le grand nombre d'horticulteurs rappeJes sous les armes. D'autre part, la Societe Nationale d'Horticulture decidait de tenir a nouveau ses meetings de faeon k mettre fin a l'interruption dans la vie horticoie scientifique. Un signe carac- teristique de la reprise des affaires est la reapparition de certaines revues horticoles. C'est avec un sentiment de satisfaction que nous avons regu un numero de La Eevue d'Horticul- ture pratique et de L' Horticulture francaise. Cette derniere revue promet de publier dans son prochain numero la li6te des horticulteurs tues ou blesses sur le champ de bataille. L 'exportation se manifeste par de notables ex- peditions a l'etranger. Les envois vers 1 'Amerique se rapprocheront sensiblement de la normale ; ceux vers certains pays neutres depassent les previsions. Quant a la clientele anglaise, un coup d'oeil dans Covent Garden suffit pour faire constater que les produits horti- coles frangais s'y debitent a peu pros comme en temps normal, bien que les delivraisons se fassent souvent avec du retard. La semaine de la Noel, Jes Anemones, Narcisses, Mimosas, Violettes et Eenoncules du Midi, les Asperges vertes et les Haricots etaient offerts en quantites suffisantes. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. En Holunde.- Les fleuristes d'Aalsmeer, en vue de remedier a la crise que la guerre amene dans le commerce des Lilas, ont fait un essai pour faire parvenir des fleurs en Amerique. Le prix des Lilas a baisse a la suite de grands arrivages ; les Chrysanthemes se vendent mieux. On attend pour les fleurs en general une baisse apres la Noel, ce qui se produit tous les ans, la demande etant moins forte. Les Poires et les Pommes montrent toujours une tendance a la hausse ; les Poires a cuire baissent cependant de prix. Les gelees de novembre ont detruit les Choux- fleurs encore sur pied; les enchantillons dis- ponibles sont partiellement atteints et se ven- dent a bas prix pour la mise en conserve. De grandes quantites de Choux-cabus sont amenes au marche parce qu'ils ne presentent pas les qualites requises pour la conservation en grange.* Les Pommes de terre et Oignons sont toujours recherches ; les prix des autres legumes 6ont generalement satisfaisants. En Amerique.— II est propose de remplacer cette annee les Azalees de Gand et les Muguets de Hambourg qui arrivent difficilement, par les plantes suivantes ; Rhododendrons nains, Cognassiers du Japon, Cerisiers, Pommiers, Pruniers a fleurs, Forsythias, Cytisus, Wisterias, Deutzias, Lilas. Hosiers, etc. NOUVELLES DE NOS AMIS.— M. EMILE Thiebaut, marchand grainier, place de la Madeleine, a, Paris, a ete fait prisonnier par les Allemands et est interne a Torgau, en Saxe. M. Thiebaut etait secretaire de la Societe frangaise d'Horticulture de Londres, en 1892-93. Depuis son retour en France il remplit les fonctions de secretaire aupres du comite parisien de ladite societe. M. Gentil, de Bruxelles, dont nous etions sans nouvelles depuis longtemps, est en bonne sante et occupe son poste au Jardin Botanique de la Rue Royale. Le Colonel Morel. -De Moniteur Edge des 17, 18 et 19 decembre nous apprend que le lieutenant-colonel Morel a ete promu au grade de Colonel. Le colonel Morel est bien connu de nos lecteurs par la place qu'il occupe dans le monde des amateurs horticoles. Son pare de Boitsfort est un modele. Nos plus vives felici- tations. Cooperative de Salage. — La commune de Hoogezand (Holland*) met annuellement plus de 1,000,000 kg. de Haricots en conserve. En vue de diminuer les frais generaux, de rendre le materiel uni forme (actuellement on emploie des • En Hollande les Choux-cabus sont conserves, coupes, et. entosscjs dans des locaux spiiciaux appeles granges a ( lniux. futs a vin) et de diminuer les causes d'insucces, la societe locale de vente a decide de creer une societe cooperative qui se substituera aux pro- ducteurs pour la preparation des Haricots. Comment Employer les Maraichers belges? — A diverses reprises cette question a ete 60ulevee dans ce journal. Le comite officiel anglais, dans son premier rapport, nous ren- seigne sur ce qui a ete fait deja dans cette voie. Selon les renseignements fournis par ce comite, il y aurait en Angleterre environ 110,000 refugies beiges, y compris les femmes et les enfants. De ce nombre 23,907 etaient renseignes comme exercant un metier. Les maraichers ne sont pas recenses specialement, mais leur nombre doit etre assez eleve. Un certain nombre d'entr'eux ont trouve un emploi provisoire chez des hor- ticulteurs. Un comite special, independant du comite officiel, s'est corustitue a Londres en vue de fournir de 1'occupation aux agriculteurs efc specialement a ceux s'occupant de culture in- tensive, c'est a dire les producteurs de fruits et de legumes. Ce comite, qui est connu sous le nom de Belgian Organisation Society, se propose de les envoyer dans les jardins des ecoles d'agri- culture et d'horticulture, oii ils pourraient initier les Anglais aux precedes beiges. D'autre part des colonies agricoles et horticoles seraient creees ; les Beiges s'y adonneraient a la culture comme dans leur patrie. On leur adjoindrait des cultivateurs anglais qui se mettraient au courant de leurs methodes et permettraient, apres leur depart, de faire profiter ] 'agriculture anglaise de l'experience acquise. La Vente du Chasselas de la Treille du Roy n'a produit cette annee que 1.082 francs, nous apprend La Eevue d'Horticulture pratique. Quarante-cinq lots de quarante-six livres avaient ete offerts, la livre de Raisin revient done a environ Ofr. 50 en moyenne, cer- tains lots etant vendus a raison de Ofr. 33, d 'autres a raison de Ofr. 91 la livre. Contraire- ment aux traditions, un nombre tres restreint d^acheteurs assistaient aux operations, parmi lesquelles plusieurs personnes de Fontainebleau, qui dans une genereuse pensee, ont acquis du Chasselas pour l'offrir aux blesses militaires en traitement dans les hopitaux de la ville. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. Na den oorlog zal er veel te herbouwen vallen in de steden en dorpen waar de Duitschen aan't werk geweest zijn. Men moet zorgen dat er dan maatregelen genomen worden om aan de iniwoners gelegenheid te geven de stoffelijke en zedelijke voordeelen van moes — en bloemen- teelt te genieten. Een engelsche maatscliappij die dienaangaande groote ondervinding bezit. zal eerstdaags in Londen openbare voordrachten over dat onderwerp doen geven. Er is een komiteit gestieht met het doel de belgische land-en tuinbouwers in de engelsche scholen werk te verschaffen en deze op de hoogte der belgische teeltwijzen te brengen. Anderzijds zouden ze met het zelfde doel in groepen kleine bedrijvi n bewerken waar engelsche kweekers insgi zouden op werkzaam zijn. In Frankrijk is de bedrijvigheid in den Tuin- bouw stilaan aan't hernemen ; uitvoer gi plaats iKi.ii- Engeland, Amerika en and onzijdige landen. De toestand van den holland- schen tuinbouwhaiidcl blijl't bevredigend. De laaistc bloemkoolen werden echter grootendeela ventilators wide open, then, after this period, open wide the windows and doors of the dwelling-room for an hour or more. You must remember that hydrocyanic acid gas is a virulent poison to all kinds of animal life and extreme care is necessary in its use. But by stopping the crevices of the doorway with paper pushed in with a blunt knife and'seeing that no one enters the room whilst the vinery is being fumigated, no danger should result. Insects on Ferns : Miss P. The maggots belong to a beetle known as Cetonia aurata. They may be killed by sprinkling guano on the soil at intervals of three weeks. Names of Fruits : J. G. D. 1, Blenheim Pip- pin; 2, Kentish Pippin (syn. Colonel Vaughan's) ; 3, not recognised, resembles- Benoni. — E. A. A seedling : next season send six fruits to the R.H. Society's Fruit and Vegetable Committee. — P. H. R. 1, Easter Beurre ; 2, Bergamotte Esperen ; 3, Catillac; 4, decayed; 5, Ashmead's Kernel; 6, Reinette de Canada ; 7, Melon Apple ; 8, Roundway Magnum Bonum. — TT'. M. C. Ex- ceptionally fine fruits of Annie Elizabeth. — Norton Davcntry. 1, Peasgood's Nonesuch; 2, Striped Beefing ; 3, Lord Suffield ; 4, Nee plus Meuris ; 5, Beurre de Jonghe. Names of Plants : .4. T. H. Pyrus angusti- folia. — D. W. Not recognised. — Elizabeth van Rysselberghe. 1, Rivinia humilis ; 2, Crypto- meria elegans. — F. G. Shelton. Cotoneaster frigida. — B. Dearlove. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6, Cupressus Lawsoniana; 5, Thuya plicata. — Constant Reader. 1, Two forms of Ficus- stipularis, commonly called F. repens in gar- dens ; 2, Bambusa gracilis ; 3, Acalypha mar- ginata ; 4. Didymochlaena lunulata. a warm house Fern ; 5, Thyrsacanthus rutilans ; 6, Juniperus chinensis ; 7, Fittonia Verschaffeltii ; 8. Metrosideros 6oribunda; 9, Calceolaria am- plexicaulis. Plant Propagation : Toxo. You will find an illustration and description of a plant propa- gator heated by a lamp in The Amateur's (rrcenliouse, by T. W. Sanders, price 5s. 4d., from our publishing department. The Genus Eucalyptus : M. L. B. A Critical Revision of the Genus Eucalyptus, by Pro- fessor J. H. Maiden, is published by William Applegate Gullick, Government printer, New South Wales. The work is published in parts, which appear every three or four months, and the last published was Part 20, Vol. XI. We cannot inform you of the price. Twin Apples : 7?." 77. The abnormality is not uncommon: specimens of twin Apples are sent to us from time to time. The variety is not in a suitable condition for naming. Communications Beceived.— E. S . Winnipeg [thanks for vour most interesting letter]— F. D., Herault, France [thanks for notes anrl photographs'. —Constant Header— A. O. Oain^J. J. H — Mis* L. M.- W "W. J.—B. L.— A Dorset Gardener— H. J. O.—F. D. —A. H.-D. M.— F. G— H. D.— F. J. O.— O. H. F.- C. B. V.— S. L. and Co.— P. A.— A. D.— A. L. A.— C. W. C— E. H. J.— W. B.-F. C. E.— J. W. Y — W L. W. January 9, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 13 THE ©arbiters' ffiljnmirk No. 1,463.— SATURDAY, J ANGARY 9, 19lS. CONTENTS. Apple canker 21 Lilies in 1914 13 Apples, a selection of . . Bu Market fruit garden, the lb Begonia Scarlet Beauty 18 Obituary — Bordeaux mixture and Mellis, David Young.. 24 leaf scorching .. IS Morrison, John 24 Bunyard, Mi. Harry A. . . 19 Peas, late 20 Canadian agriculture .. 19 Peinettiana Roses 21 Dahlia Conference 19 Pit-wood, home grown .. l(i Droitwich County Exper- Plant novelties in 1914 .. 19 imental Garden 19 "Pour hos amis franyais Fatsia japonica 21 et beiges" l2 Fruit trees, self-sterility Rural improvement 21 in . . 21) Societies — Gardeners' Royal Benevo- Royal Horticultural . . 23 lent Institution 18 Stevenson, Mr: Thomas 19 Journal of the Royal Vege.ablea eowu in Horticultural Society 21 August 21 Lawes and Gilbert Cen- War items . . . . - . . IS tenary Fund .. ILLU 19 STF Week's work, the.. It ATIONS. 17 Begonia Scarlet Beauty. (Col mred Plate.) Bulb of hybrid Lilium 18 Cypripedium Arthurianum La igley variety 23 Hybrid Lilium (L. pardalinum x L. Parryi) la Lilium Bolanderi .. 14 LILIES IN 1914. THE year just drawn to a close will assuredly be remembered by every- one for reasons in no way connected with horticulture ; , but not even the tragic calamity that has befallen the world is likely to prevent the present generation of gardeners, when chewing the pleasant ■ cud of reflection in times to come, from thinking of it as the most wonderful year they have known, .quite overshadowing 1911 and the long trail, of pleasant recollections that season left be- hind. Even men and women .who are in the autumn of their gardening life would have to rummage deep in 'memory's cup- board to find the like of 1914. In the Home Counties the year opened very much in the. fashion' .of the last six or seven years, the edge of winter's knife being dulled by abnormally h'igh tem- peratures and an absence of frost, while almost daily rain filled ponds and ditches over-full and turned the hillside runnels into foaming spates. Thanks, one suspects, quite as much to the ripening effect of the fine dry autumn of 1913 as to the absence of frost, many Lilies again began the business of life so unusually early that the hapless use of a fork in that tiresome, if perhaps necessary, operation known as " pricking over" the borders, revealed the fact that fat spikes of the white Martagon Lily were all but out of the ground before Januarv had run its course, and by the time St. Valentine's Day came round a score of species were racing to reach the sun, weeks before their " proper " time, and all heed- less of possible danger from frosts and icy winds. But as things fell out, Nature, though very tearful, remained in her softest mood all through February, coaxing things into rapid growth, and once again one could not fail to notice that the last of the Lilies to flower, auratum, speciosum and Henry i, to wit,, are among the earliest to spear through the crust of the earth ; many species, such as tenuifolium, japonicum, rubellum and medeoloides, to name only four, make their first appear- ance subsequently, and yet have usually flowered, seeded and set about next year's programme before any of the first- mentioned has opened a bud. True to tradition the "roaring month" brought howling gales that " made the budding Poplars bend and bend again," and brought down many a fine old tree whose anchors could not hold in soft and rain-soaked ground, but the winds were always from the softer quar- ters and did no harm to gardens ; things went on in damp, mild and easy fashion till, with March out of the way and the back of the winter broken, one began to wonder if for once in a while the sting had been drawn from its tail. Fig 2. — bulb of hybrid lilium (l. martagon album x l. medeoloides). In the result the awakening was rude and rapid, but no more than one deserved for thrusting the dearly-bought lessons of experience into the background, and, to cut a long story short, April, and especi- ally May, brought a persistence of cold winds and low night temperatures which culminated on May 26 in such a frost as caused a wail of anguish to go up from gardeners and fruit-growers all over the* country. But Lilies, at any rate in the writer's garden, showed themselves wonderfully indifferent to the late spring frosts, and taking stock of one's treasures early in June it was evident that while there had been a slight general check to growth very little actual harm had come to them. Here and there an odd stem not so snugly housed in the surrounding shrubs as it might have been had to mourn the loss of a head seared and blackened beyond repair ; but an occur- rence of that sort need cause the gardener no more than a twinge of regret, for Nature is often cruel- only to be kind, and in the case of these stricken stems the subsequent year's growth is generally ab- normally fine. Of the rest of the season one can but , say that to the last everything has fallen out just as the. Lily-grower would have wished had he been given his choice. The sun has been tropical, and except for a showery fortnight at the end of , 'July there has been no rain worth mentioning to damp the beauty of .the' flowers./ . Even when flowering time was /ver and' seed was in the pans Nature kept a dry and smiling face, so that by tile time the. acorns were rattling down j in October planting had all been done under the hap- piest conditions, and everything made snug for the winter. In the ordinary wav a drought such as we experienced this yea? would have been, fatal to a large proportion of the more capricious species of Lilium, such as Bolanderi, Kello.ggji, maritimum, par- vum, polyphyllum,/Brownii and \Vashing- tonianum, but wifli the help of . subter- ranean irrigation the enthusiast ' was able to bring ^them all safely through what must ha/e been the -driest summer of recent yea/s. The harvest of seed of nearly every species haj/ been bountiful, and' it. is a testimony^o the exceptional nature of. the season thTat it should have been possible to garner seed of L. polyphyllum, rube- scqns, /Sargentiae, speciosum, and even W/ashingtonianum from plants grown in the open ; of L. regale, too, there has been /a veritable glut of seed. Ot the newer species of Lilium, Wil- son's regale has been queen for some years and still holds her throne, but a rival q'ueen has made an appearance on the hori- ••zon, and if the Lily at present known — ;' wrongly, one suspects — as Brownii var. kansuensei proves as strong in constitu- tion as it is beautiful in flower, L. regale will have to give place to an even more gorgeous Lily of much the same general character as itself. Through the good offices of Mr. E. H. Wilson a bulb of this remarkable Lily found its way last year to the writer's gar- den from the courteous hands of Professor, Scheubel, and has flowered in truly mag- nificent fashion: In bulb, foliage, flower and general habit this Lily may be described as a glorified regale but without, apparently,- the .wonderful propensity, shown by the latter for bearing seed. Though the persistent winter rains were none too much to its liking and caused a good many bulbs to fall out of the ranks, the splendid summer induced L. Sargen- tiae to show us that except in general hardiness it is the peer of L. regale ; when well grown this Lily is ^ of sturdier habit than the latter, and has just that measure of stature in which L. regale is usually deficient ; indeed plants standing five feet high may commonly be seen. Though not so lengthy or so richly coloured as those of L. sulphureum, the trumpets of L. Sar- gentiae are longer and rather more formal 14 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaby 9, 1915. than those of L. regale; they do not hold themselves up to the sun in semi-erect fashion like those of the latter Lily, and, especi- ally when day is darkening into night, they are as sweetly fragrant as any flower can be. The species comes into bloom a week or two after L. regale has done for the year, and rather before L. sulphureum, when the season is propitious for the latter. Although newly-imported bulbs are a little inclined to throw all the work of the first season on to the stem roots and make no basal roots until the following year, L. Sargentiae is some- times so robust a grower that one may gather both seed and axillary bulbils from the same plant, but, as is the case with all Lilies carrying axillary bulbils, L. .Sargentiae is a shy seeder. Unlike L. Tegale, L. Sargentiae is not yet to be trusted to look after itself in the rough and tumble of garden work, and though it must not be sup- posed that this Lily cannot be grown perennially in properly prepared positions in the garden, it is undoubtedly more comfortable in our wet winters with a roof over its head ; indeed, it is astonish- ing to find how dry the bulbs may be kept up to about the end of January. Though L. Sar- gentiae grows wild on granitic mountain slopes it is tolerant of lime to an unusual degree ; more- over, it is waste of time to plant the bulbs in peaty soil. When raising this and other Lilies by bulbils it is as well not to sow the latter as one does seed, but to press each bulbil up to the neck in the soil of the pan or frame, leaving the top exposed. L. warleyense, for the discovery of which also we have to thank Mr. Wilson, is a Lily with which as yet few in this country can have more than a bowing acquaintance, for so far as the writer is aware it has not made any appearance . in public since Miss Willmott exhibited a fine specimen at the Holland House Show of 1912. A bulb of it flowered here last August in per- fection, and if it turns out as good a stayer as it looks, L. warleyense ought soon to be one of the finest garden Lilies. It comes quickly from seed, is a rapid gTower and seemingly quite easy to get on with; moreover, the species is ex- traordinarily floriferous, and though the struc- ture of the bulb leads one to suppose L. war- leyense belongs to the sub-section of which L. tigrinum is the best-known representative, it is distinct enough from that species. L. Thayerae, another of Wilson's Chinese Lilies, continues to do well, and as both this and L. sutchuenense (Franchet) were in bloom simul- taneously this year one was again able to see by that best of all tests, the. comparison of living plants, how different they are, and to wonder why the two ever came to be confused. L. sutchuenense is a slender dwarf-growing plant with a most attractive air of good breeding. Our experience of the species of Lilium which have reached this country from China within the last twenty years or so, including L. Henryi, regale, SaTgentiae, sutchuenense and Thayerae, to say nothing of the quite recent arrivals, L. warleyense and Brownii var. kan- suense, leads to the hope of great things from the species, known and unknown, still to find their way into cultivation. The list of Chinese Lilies already reported and of which few gardeners can have any first-hand knowledge is a long one and includes L. anertum, Bakerianum, Bonatii, Cavalerei, . chinense, Davidii, Duchartrei, Duclouxii, Fargesii, Fauriei, Feddei, formosum, graminifolium, Henrici, linceorum, lankong- ense, lophophorum, Mairei, majoense, mirabile, myriophyllum, ochraceum, papilliferum, Pyi, Rosthornii, speciosum var. gloriosoides, taliense, Taquetii, Tenii and yunnanense, to say nothing of several so-called forms of L. Brownii, leu- camthum and chloraster among them, as well as a number collected by Forrest and still to be classified. After five long years of waiting bulbs of L. rubescens, sown in 1909, have reached flowering stage and earned promotion from the nursery to their allotted place in the garden. This is one of several Californian Lilies it seems almost impos- sible to cultivate unless one begins ab initio with seeds or scales, for wild bulbs imported from the West travel very badly, and even if they are potted up and carefully tended during their first season after arrival, the long, thin scales of which the bulb is composed commonly succumb to an insidious process of decay which ultimately reduces them to the consistency of Camembert cheese, and is exceptionally difficult to arrest. Along with its cousin L. Washing- tonianum, the Redwood Lily has little liking for a soil not sharply drained, and for that reason the gardener should give the bulbs a place where the rains of November and December may run off quickly ; in many gardens this is more easily Fig. 3. — lilium bolanderi : flowers vinous- red spotted with purple. said than done, but it is worth going to con- siderable trouble to secure, for a good flowering spike of L. rubescens is something to Temember. The Lilies of the Western United States had the time of their lives last year, and cozened no doubt by the Californian summer into believing themselves at home, have given of their best, a fact strikingly illustrated by the flowering of Bolander's Lily shown in fig. 3. Ruling out the pardalinum section, the members of which may generally, be trusted to look after themselves, the Californian Lilies are particularly susceptible both to prolonged drought when the roots are active and to excessive wet when they are not, and in these respects provide a great contrast to the Euro- pean species, L. candidum, chalcedonicuni, croceum, monadelphum, pyrenaicum, and the rest, which are content to take the seasons as they come. Of new forms of Lilium as distinct from 6necies, a hybrid between L. martagon album and L. medeoloides has flowered this year, and in some forms provides us with an attractive com- bination in which the deep colour of L. dalmati- cum is united to the habit of little medeoloides. This Lily is remarkable in that, as fig. 2 shows, the bulb is a good example of bi-generic character, the articulated Oat-shaped scales which are peculiar to L. medeoloides being en- larged and combined with the typical martagon form. Another hybrid, between L. candidum and L. Parryi, gives us a beautiful Lily with a colour hitherto unknown in the genus and corre- sponding to the orange cadmium of the Reper- toire de Couleurs. More lovely still is the off- spring of the union of L. Panyi with L. Hum- boldtii — a real beauty, in which " the pale- primrose of the dawning sky " is delicately freckled with purple. A fourth mongrel, and one that improves on acquaintance year by year, is the giant that has resulted from the crossing of L. pardalinum by L. Parryi (fig. 4), a union that is reputed to have given birth to the Lily known to catalogues as Burbankii. In this the strong constitution of the female parent is allied to the graceful habit of the male, and in a couple of years it has shot up till it towers 9 feet high, well above either of its parents. Of natural hybrids none has yet appeared, and as the years race by and seed of three or four summers back finds itself grown to man's estate and flowering maybe alongside the very plant that gave it life, one is led to ponder on the seemingly immutable laws that prevent even a modest intermingling of specie6 where man leaves well alone. Few things in Nature are more interesting to watch than the apparently aimless manner in which she allows her army, of winged workers to make experiments among the Lilies in the way of mixing blood without any tangible result. One would suppose that in a tiny garden where for more than a decade fifty or sixty species have been grown cheek by jowl in the space of a few yards, a number of hybrids would have made their appearance as the natural outcome of the intolerably loose behaviour of myriads of bees — workers and makebelieves — as well as moths, which day after day and night after night the season through busy themselves in flying from trumpet to turn- cap, turncap to trumpet, rifling each of a sip of nectar, and at every fresh visit smother- ing themselves anew with pollen. And what is the result of all this industrious mingling of pollen? So far as the writer's ex- perience is concerned it is nil, if one except a trifling disinclination on the part of L. Parryi to breed true from seed. Beyond the Lilies already mentioned there have been a few new arrivals in the course of the year, while of known species that had dropped out of cultivation and have turned up again, one, brought home by Mr. Elwes from Sikkim and reputed to be L. Wallichii, is the most interesting. It is not to be expected that this fine species will prove amenable to garden cultivation in average seasons, and our wet winters will probably prove its undoing. L. Biondii, collected by Giraldi in Southern Shen-si twenty years ago, has been brought into commerce during the year by Mr. Perry and is an attractive Lily of the tigrinum section. According to Baker, it is synonymous with L. papilliferum (Delavay), reported from Yunnan in 1888, and if so the employment of another name can only cause confusion. Now that each is in cultivation the relationship of this species to the January 9, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 15 more recently discovered L. Thayerae (Wilson) will, no doubt, be determined 'by the botanists. A narrow-leaved form of L. Hansonii has been received from Japan, and is of especial interest because of all species this has hitherto been re- garded as immutable in its specific character- istics ; another year or two will no doubt 6how us if the variation, which is very noticeable, is due to the influence of soil or climate, or is per- manent. During the year another bulb of Forrest's, No. 692, has been received from Messrs. Bees ; seed of Forrest's Nos. 10,467, 10,545 and 10,659, along with a bulb reputed to be that of L. lankongense, has come from Messrs. Wallace, as well as seed- lings of Forrest's 8,930 and 9,024 ; while seed of L. sulphureum x regale has been kindly sent both by Mr. Dimsdale and M. Denis through Mr. W. R. Dykes. L. Kesselringhii, too, a local form of L. monadelphum, has come from the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens. Bulbs reputed to be of that elusive species, L. Lowii, have found their way again to this country from Burma, and if it should transpire that they are really what they are supposed to be it is to be hoped some attempt may be made to cultivate the species systematically in conditions which will preclude the bulbs being more or less drowned in winter or frost-bitten in May. No great amount of heat — if, indeed, any at all — seems likely to be needed for the successful cultivation of a number of Lilies which for want of a better word one may term half-hardy ; but a roof over their heads in winter i6 surely, above all things, necessary if one is to succeed with L. Alexandrae, auratum rubro-vittatum, carolini- anum, Catesbaei, Lowii from the Shan States, nepalense, nilghirense, philippinense, the Bur- mese sulphureum, Wallichii, as well as such of the Korean and Formosan species as we know at present, nearly all the forms of L. longiflorum, and possibly the true Chinese L. Brownii. A. Grove, Kenlons, Upper Culham, Berkshire. THE MARKET FRUIT CAROEN. Comparatively few fruit-growers would append the words " much regretted '' to a notice of the departure of the year 1914. My own division of the country, including Kent, appears to have been the most fortunate, in consequence of having been almost or quite exempt from the damage to fruit done by the late spring frosts. Prices, however, were so low that great crops of Plums and Apples made no more than half their quantities realised in the preceding year, allowing for the great loss caused by the pheno- menal dropping of Apples and the losses from rotting among some kept till late in December. For a war year, however, some of us have not much to complain of in general results. The year ended with one of the wettest of Decembers. Eighteen out of the first twenty-one days were rainy in my district, the fall being 6.03 inches, and more fell later. It was as much in the south- east division of England as a whole, which had more rain in December than any other division of the kingdom, according to the reports of the Meteorological Office. The records show an excess of 4.12 inches over average for the first three weeks. The land has been in a sodden condition since November 24, and quite unfit for planting or digging. In the whole month rain fell on 23 days, the total being 7.68 inches. In the last five weeks of the year 10.36 inches of rain fell, as compared with 9.68 inches for the seven months ended with October. The total for the year was 31.68 inches, as compared with 29.10, the annual aver- age for 14 years. 'Currant Root Louse. Very little attention has been paid to this pest, though it is probably often the cause of both Black and Red Currants failing to grow well. Possibly it is often unnoticed where it is pre- valent, though it shows on the roots of young bushes when dug up for transplanting in their final quarters, the appearance being similar to that of the woolly aphis, commonly known as ulmi, which causes the leaves of the Elm to curl in spring and summer. A Selection of Apples. In the controversy which has been carried on Fig. 4. — hybrid lilium (l. pardalinum x l. parryi) (See p. 14.) FLOWERS LIGHT ORANGE. "American blight." Infested roots should bi> dipped in a strongish solution of soft soap. I found the attack in two damp parts of a nursery bed last autumn, and to a less extent recently. Mr. Theobald, in his Insect Pests of Fruit, identifies it as the migrant form of Schizoneura in these pages upon this subject, I agree with Mr. Molyneux generally so far as market grow- ing is concerned, and with Mr. Weston in rela- tion to private orchards. The market grower does well to limit his varieties of Apples to thoso which sell well End flourish in his dis- 16 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 9, 1915. trict, trying on a small scale any new varieties for possible planting to a larger1 extent in the future. As a rule, varieties particularly liable to •canker or scab should be excluded. Cox's Orange Pippin and one other variety liable to both diseases may be excepted, if they can be made to grow even passably, because of their great value in the market. But the rule, so far as my experience is a guide, cuts out Stirling Castle, Potts's Seedling, Gascoyne's Scarlet, Peasgood's Nonesuch, Wellington, Irish Peach, Duchess of Oldenburg, King of the Pippins, Ribston Pip- pin, and some other varieties not commonly grown in market orchards, as well as others which I have not tried. Lady Sudeley may also be ex- cluded because it is subject to scab and is in no way desirable. It is too large for a dessert Apple, is coarse in fibre, and sells badly. Warner's King is not excluded because, al- though it is somewhat subject to canker, it makes a big tree and bears great crops of large Apples which command the top price among mid-season varieties. Cox's Orange Pippin is quite a failure in a number of districts, probably in the majority, and I fail to comprehend how Mr. Molyneux would adapt the soil to it on a large scale. But where it flourishes even passably it is a valuable acquisi- tion to the market grower on account of the high prices which it commands. There is some doubt in my mind as to whether Allington Pippin should not be placed on the black list. Except for scab, which can be kept under in this variety by spraying, it is a healthy grower and a great cropper, while it keeps quite as long as Cox's Orange Pippin; but it is much out of favour in the markets, and sells badly unless kept till other dessert Apples are scarce. Two varieties of early cooking Apples are enough, in my opinion, because there is not a great demand for Apples till Plums are finished. By very general consent among those who have grown them Early Victoria and Grenadier are the best. Lord Grosvenor, a great yielder, follows well as what may be termed an inter- mediate between early and mid-season varieties. Mid-season cookers go into markets glutted with windfalls, and almost always make lower prices than either early or late varieties. But some of them are such heavy croppers that they bring in good returns, even at low prices. Among the best are Warner's King, Lord Derby, Royal Jubilee, and Queen, while Norfolk Beauty, a comparatively new variety of great size, comes in well as a somewhat late mid-season Apple. With proper accommodation for storing, it ap- pears to me advantageous to devote most of tne space allotted to cookers which are long keepers. If I had to plant afresh I would put Bramley's Seedling on one-fourth of my total fruit acreage, with Newton Wonder in every fourth row in the same orchard in one case, probably Annie Eliza- beth or some other long keeper in another, and Lane's Prince Albert in a third orchard among Bramley's. Two of the four varieties named I grow somewhat extensively, namely, Bramley's Seedling and Lane's Prince Albert ; but there are not half so many trees of Bramley's as I should like, and nearly all the top-grafting of unsatisfactory varieties is to be done with Bramley's. Turning to dessert Apples, Beauty of Bath is my favourite early variety, though many growers say that it is not a success with them. Mr. Gladstone is the only other early dessert variety which has given me satisfaction. Lang- ley Pippin I have not tried. Worcester Pear- main, Charles Ross and James Grieve would be, as they are, my chief mid-season dessert varieties, with Rival probably added on a smaller scale. For more or less late keepers Cox's Orange and Blenheim Pippins would be the prin- cipal sorts, with Lord Hindlip and Sturmer Pippin on a smaller area. By the way, I have not found Cox's Orange Pippin so good a keeper as Mr. Molyneux represents it to be when he says he has seen good specimens in April. In one season I kept a good lot till January, but in most years there is too much loss in trying to keep it over Christmas. The list is not a long one ; but it covers enough varieties for a market grower. In a private orchard of considerable size, as in my_ own, a much greater number of varieties may be grown. To the lover of fruit culture there is a pleasure in trying numerous varieties, and, so far as dessert fruit in particular is concerned, several varieties not to be generally recommended for market orchards may well be grown for home use. These include D'Arcy Spice Pippin, which I rank next to Cox's Orange Pippin for flavour and texture ; Roundway Magnum Bonum, a big and ugly but deliriously spicy Apple ; Ribston, Claygate Pearmain, Mannington's Pearmain and Duke of Devonshire, with any new variety that comes out and seems to be worth trying. Other growers would vary the lists of cooking and dessert Apples in accordance with their ex- perience, or extend them in order to include varieties which I have never grown. The lists most suitable for one district are not necessarily completely so for another ; but it may be as- sumed that no grower would exclude Bramley's and a few other varieties recommended above. Price Quotations for Fruit. It would be a great advantage to market growers if they could get trustworthy market quotations for fruit. No two sources of informa- tion agree in the prices they give. As an ex- ample, the following comparison of quotations for Apples for the third week of December is compiled from the reports of the Board of Agri- culture and two fruit-trade papers, indicated as No. 1 and No. 2 :— No. 1. No. 2. B. of A. s. s. s. s. d. s. d. s. d. Blenheim per bushel 5 to 7 5 to 6 0 5 0 to 5 6 Bramley's per bushel 4 to 6 4 to 4 6 4 0to4 6 Wellington per bushel 4 to 6 4 to 46 46 to 50 Cox's Orange per half-sieve 5 to 8 5 to 6 0 4 0 to 6 0 Possibly each reporter gets Apple prices from only a single salesman, but not the same one as either of the other two consults. No fair reports can be obtained without consulting several firms. A Market Grower. The Week's Work. Home-grown Pit- wood.— The United Kingdom consumes annually about 4,500,000 tons of pit-wood, of which quantity about half comes in normal times from the Baltic. Of the re- mainder about 800,000 tons are supplied by the United Kingdom and Ireland. The declaration of pit-wood as contraband by Germany and the importance to the mining industry of an adequate supply has led the Board of Agricul- ture to undertake an inquiry into the resources of this country in timber suitable for pit-wood. The inquiry has been completed with commend- able promptitude, and the results issued in a Report by the Board on " Supplies of Home- grown Pit-wood." In case of emergency, it appears from the Report that by using not only the normally felled wood (Pine, Larch, Spruce and hard woods) but also extraordinary fellings (i.e., anticipating 3-5 year fellings) the United Kingdom and Ireland could supply enough pit- wood to keep the mines going for a year. To meet the difficulty of high freight — many of the woods being far from the pits — emergency rates have been framed by the railways. Labour, how- ever, would certainly present a difficulty, and, although not referred to in the Report, transport by rail would undoubtedly present another. It il curious that no reference is made in the Report to the possibility of using canal transport. Everyone knows that there is a congestion on the railways, and yet we do not remember that anything has yet been done to take the oppor- tunity presented by this state of affairs to re- habilitate our inland waterways. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens. Windsor. Lettuces in Cold Frames.— Admit air to Lettuces in frames, raising the lights at the top and bottom ; but as damp is the greatest danger to this crop in winter the plants must be pro- tected from rains, and all decaying foliage re- moved. Stir the soil occasionally, and keep it free from weeds. Young Lettuce's in frames in- tended for planting in the open at the end of March should be grown quite cool and hardy, removing the lights entirely both by night and day in mild weather. Cauliflowers.— Plants growing in pits and intended for planting out in the beginning of April should be grown as cool as possible during the winter. Nothing beyond protection from frost is necessary. As the best results are obtained from plants which have been wintered in pots, there should be no delay in potting a sufficient number into 4-inch pots. The soil for potting should consist of sandy loam mixed with a small quantity of decayed horse droppings. A sowing of Dean's Early Snowball, Great Dane and Magnum Bonum should be made now to furnish plants for a succession to those wintered in frame*. Cucumbers.— Plants intended for cropping during the next three months should be grown in a temperature of 70°, but when severe frosts occur 65° will be suitable, for the use of much fire-heat in winter will almost certainly result in red spider attacking the plants, a pest that will soon render the plants incapable of fruit- ing. Syringe the foliage in the early part of the day when the weather is favourable, and damp "the walls and floor frequently. Keep the plants thinned and stopped as it becomes necessary, and prevent overcropping by re- moving deformed and surplus fruits, leaving only sufficient to furnish a supply. If not already done, make another sowing, placing the seeds singly in small, clean pots filled with loam and leaf-mould. Cover the seeds lightly with some of the finer soil and place the pots on a brisk hot-bed within 18 inches of the roof-glass, which must be perfectly clean. When the young plants are well through the soil, fasten them to small sticks as a protection from damage by the syringe. Pot the plants up as soon as they are large enough, and plunge them in bottom heat. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire. Fruit Borders.— Great care is necessary in the composition and formation of fruit-tree borders. The soil should possess a considerable degree of adhesiveness, but not sufficient to prevent excess of moisture from passing away readily and warmth from the atmosphere entering. In soils possessing a certain degree of tenacity and friability, the fibrous roots of fruit trees increase abundantly and spread rapidly. Such soils are also suitable alike for either hot and dry or cold and wet climates. They will not crack in hot summers and yet be sufficiently porous not to retain an excess of moisture. The nature of the under-stratum is slso of the utmost importance, for a close, heavy subsoil in cold, wet situations would result in stagnant water about the roots, which would be almost certain to produce a diseased condition of the tree. On the contrary, in hot, dry situations water must not drain away too rapidly or the trees would not receive a suit- able supply of nourishment. If the subsoil con- tains a large proportion of clay, mix coarse sand or road drift with it, and work it thoroughly before planting. The addition of some of the lighter kinds of manure, such as vegetable refuse, wood-ash and decayed January 9, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 17 seaweed, is desirable. If the ground be too light in texture it may be improved by adding soil of a stronger nature, such as the lighter kind of clay ; also a goodly proportion of well-decayed cow manure. It is always better to have the soil too light rather than too heavy. A very adhesive land cannot well be lightened after the trees are planted without damaging the roots, whereas light soil ■can be top-dressed with manures and watered with liquid manure. Apples and Pears grow best in strong loams. The Pear will succeed in a lighter soil than the Apple, and Cherries, Peaches, Nectarines and Apricots in one lighter still, whilst Plums, Prunes and Damsons suc- ceed in either. In forming a fruit-tree border where the subsoil is of a heavy, wet nature, let the under-stratum slope from the wall to the front of the border, allowing a fall not less than 1 inch in 12. Provide a drain at the front of the border to carry off the surplus moisture. Place a layer 3 or 4 inches deep of moderate- sized, clean gravel or brick-bats broken small at. the bottom of the border, and over this spread about an inch of fine gravel, or, better still, in- verted turves. Let the whole of the drainage material be well rolled or beaten firm. Where the subsoil is rocky or shaly, drainage may be dispensed with. . THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. R. LysagHT, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Dendrobium.— Whilst, as a general rule, Dendrobiums bloom in March and April, the season may be extended by having a few of the plants in flower before that date. To achieve .this a careful selection is necessary, both in regard to variety and the condition of the plants. Only well-rooted and thoroughly ripened specimens, with the most advanced flower-buds, should be chosen, and, for prefer- ence, hybrids of either D. nobile or D. aureum. For example, D. Ainsworthii and its several varieties, D. Curtisii and D. Cassiope are amenable to slight forcing. Having selected the plants, they should be placed in a house where the temperature is a few degrees warmer than that in which they were rested, finally transferring them to the stove or warm division. For some time but little water will be needed at the roots, the object being to keep the pseudo-bulbs in a plump and rigid condition. By observing these details flowers may be produced instead of growth, for generous treatment at the roots often brings about this result. Unless early flowers are especially desired, the forcing should not be hurried, but just sufficient to develop the plants gradually, as then the blooms will not only be larger, but of better colour, ot greater substance and finer in every respect. The general stock of Dendrobiums should be examined occasionally to see if any of the plants need water, and as they begin to swell at the nodes a rather more liberal supply of water "may be applied. Moderation both in regard to watering and temperature should be the rule for the present. Plants of D. Phalaenopsis and D. formosum giganteum, resting in a temperature of 55°, only need watering at rare intervals until growth commences. D. Dearei is practically a perpetual grower, and requires warm treatment throughout the year. Frequent repotting of this species is not recommended, but, at the same time, the soil must be kept in a congenial state or the roots will soon decay. A top-dressing of the usual mixture when root action is evident will suffice for several years, provided watering js done carefully. At no time must the plants become really dry at the base. Botanical species of Dendrobium form a feature in some establish- ments, and, being for the most part small in statm-e, are cultivated in a corner by themselves or suspended from the roof rafters. There is nothing difficult in regard to their cultivation, hut a little extra care is needed with the water- pot or some of the plants may perish from drought. As the plants commence to grow the work of repotting or top-dressing may be under- taken. Seedling DENDROBIUMS.-The majority of seedlings which have not attained to a flowering size will soon begin to show signs of growing afresh. When they have formed roots at the base of the new shoots repot them in separate receptacles. Small pans are the most suitable receptacles, as wire handles may be attached to them. This serves a double purpose : — (1) To suspend the plants from the roof, and (2) to form a support for the young growth and older pseudo-bulbs. The rooting medium should con- sist of fibrous peat or Osmunda fibre and Sphagnum-moss in equal parts, with a liberal sprinkling of. silver sand. Both the fibre and Sphagnum-moss should be divided into moderately small portions, and each pan should be filled one-third its depth with material for drainage. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Lady NunburnhOLME, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Propagating House.— The propagating house should be cleansed thoroughly and got in readiness for the coming season. It will soon be time to place leggy, useless plants of Crotons, Dracaenas, Aralias and others in the propagating house, with a view to striking suitable shoots by ringing, which is best done early in the year, before the sun becomes too powerful. This method of propagation may be done by notching the stem and binding moss and sand tightly about the cut part. Many other plants need to be propagated at this season for furnishing early batches of plants to flower indoors. Amaryllis.— Bulbs that were ripened early and subsequently carefully treated will now respond readily to gentle forcing, and batches can be flowered in succession during the next six months. Select the soundest and best-developed bulbs, clean them, and give the soil two good soakings of water. Afterwards remove the surface soil and replace with a mixture of good fibrous loam, dried cow manure, a little fine charcoal, lime- rubble and bone-meal. Plunge the pots in a light pit in a hot-bed composed of leaves, which will afford a steady bottom heat. Water the bulbs carefully until top-growth is well ad- vanced, when frequent applications of weak liquid manure may be afforded them. Stove Plants.— The plants in the stove house require great care at this season in sucn details of culture as watering and temperatures. Do not unduly excite the plants by high tem- peratures during cold weather, nor resort to the other extreme, as both errors would result in loss of foliage. The temperatures and the degree of atmospheric moisture must be regu- lated according to the weather conditions ; the plants will keep in a healthy condition if grown in 60° to 65° by night, 65° to 70° by day, and these temperatures will suffice for a month or six weeks yet. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By A. J. COBB, Gardener to KEGINAin Cory, Esq., Duflryn, South Wales. Summer Bedding.— The wise gardener ar- ranges his plans long in advance, and it is not too soon to consider the arrangements for next season's bedding. However satisfactory any system of flower bedding is in one season, it cannot well be repeated the next, for originality and variety are looked for in the garden. The long winter evenings afford good opportunities for putting plans to paper, if only roughly. The scheme should be well thought out, employers' tastes studied, and no efforts spared to make the pleasure garden a success, for it must be remembered that the flower-beds are generally the most conspicuous features in the garden and generally in close proximity to the residence. Fashions in flower bedding may fluctuate, but the most successful arrangement will be that which is in complete agreement with the surroundings. Mixed beds of herbaceous plants and fleeting annuals, beautiful though they be, are not in keeping with many places, and these, with few exceptions, should be grown in a separate place, and not in that set apart for the bedding scheme. Plants should be selected which may be depended upon to bloom throughout the season. The principal kinds are Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums, b uchsias Heliotropes, Lantanas, Dahlias, Calceo- larias, Marguerites, Begonias, Salvias Ver- benas, Violas, Ageratum, and Lobelias. Of toliage plants, Dracaena indivisa, Cineraria mantima, Abutilons, Gnaphalium microphyllum Leucophyton Brownii, Iresine and PyrethTum are all suitable. In arranging the colour scheme for a parterre or geometrical de- sign it should be borne in mind that no one bed should stand out from its neighbour, but each should have a bearing on the whole and present a balanced effect. Large numbers of colours should be avoided, aiming at a bright but not gaudy effect. Grey foliage plants such ■as CineTana maritima and Gnaphalium will soften the most garish colours. Plants with white flowers should be used sparingly, but are useful for forming contrasts. Scarlet and pink colours should not be used to- gether, neither should magenta and scarlet. A few harmonising colours are red, orange and yellow ; pale blue, scarlet and lemon ; pale blue, flesh or pink ; rosy-pink and crimson : mauve and pale yellow ; crimson and strong yellow. Generally speaking, a ground of one or two sub- jects, with a few taller flowering and foliage plants interspersed, will be found pleasing. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Melons.— If ripe Melons are required early in May seeds should be sown at once in small pots and plunged in a hot-bed. It will be neces- sary to maintain a brisk heat during the earlier stages of growth. As soon as the seedlings ap- pear they should be grown as close to the roof- glass as is consistent with their safety. Al- though most gardeners have their own particular varieties, the smaller fruiting varieties, such as Hero of Lockinge, are to be recommended for early fruiting. Propagating Vines.— The raising of vines from " eyes " is much more practised in private gardens now than it was some years ago, and it is a great advantage to have a stock of young vines for planting. Insert the eyes now, select- ing them from well-ripened wood of the previous year's growth ; on no account select the buds from flattened growths which are usually imma- ture. The eyes should be struck in small pots filled with a compost consisting of rich loam and a small quantity of leaf-mould and surfaced with about half an inch of silver-sand. If it is intended to plant the young vines this spring press the eyes into turves 6 inches square, packed into ordinary cutting boxes. In either case the eyes should be plunged into a bed where a gentle bottom heat can be maintained. Keep the soil in a fairly moist condition", but not sodden. Early Figs.— Pot trees which were started in November are growing freely and require in- creased quantities of water at the roots. Main- tain a buoyant atmosphere, and syringe the trees twice daily when the weather is favourable for the operation, as early Figs are subject to at- tacks from red spider. It is advisable to place fermenting material around the pots, and later add to or remove some of the manure according to the temperature. As growth increases water the roots occasionally with weak liquid manure. Peaches and Nectarines.— The flower- buds are opening on the earliest trees, and the house should be immediately fumigated to ward off attacks of green and black aphis, for if this work, is deferred until the fruits are set very often the insects obtain a footing and cripple the trees at the start. As the flowers open keep the house rather drier, and maintain a minimum temperature of 45° to 50° by night. Admit air on all favourable occasions, but only open the front ventilators for a short time during the middle of the day. Complete the training nnd tying of the shoots of trees of later varieties by. the end of the month, as with increased sun- heat the buds will become prominent and there would be a danger of injuring them if the work is delaved. 18 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 9, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICE. ADVEBTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHES, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden. W.C- Editors and Publisher. - Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing 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 EDITORS. The two departments. Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed- APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUINC WEEK. TUESDAY, JANUARY 12— B.G.A. (Watford Branch) meet. Lecture on " Chry- santhemums," by Mr. W. R. Phillips. THURSDAY, JANUARY 14— Nat. Dahlia Soc. Conference at Carr's Restaurant, Strand, at 7 p.m. Average Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 38.0. Actual Temperatures :— London, January 6 (6 p.m.) : 47°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London : Thursday, January 7 (10 a.m.); Bar. 29.7; Temp. 48°. Weather- Raining. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY. WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY— Herbaceous Plants. Bulbs, and Liliums, by Protheroe and Morris, 67 and 68, Cheapside, EC., at 12. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— Rose Trees, Shrubs, Perennials and Bulbs, at Stevens' Rooms, 38, King Street, Covent Garden, at 12.30. WEDNESDAY— Fruit Trees, Roses, Azaleas, etc., by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. FRIDAY— Dutch Roses and Shrubs, at 1.30. Established Orchids at 12.45, by Protheroe and Morris. Spray injury, or scorch- Bordeaux Mix- ing, which often follows tusrcorch,nlaf from spraying with Bordeaux mixture, has formed the subject of investigation by Messrs. Barker and Giningham (Ann. Re- port, 1913, Research Station, Long Ash- ton). They find that much, if not all, of the injury is due to the effect of the spray fluid on damaged leaves ; for when a simi- lar strength of Bordeaux mixture is sprayed on Apples the leaves of which have been protected from injury no dam- age results. The authors also note that the damage is greater when a " no excess of lime " mixture is used ; the explana- tion, doubtless, being that such a mixture liberates a larger amount of soluble copper, and hence exercises a more potent effect on leaf-tissues exposed by punctures and other wounds. That damage is due to penetration of the copper Messrs. Barker and Giningham demonstrate very conclu- sively by exposing to the attack of aphides trees with undamaged leaves which had given no sign of scorching when sprayed with Bordeaux mixture. After the aphis attack had developed spraying was found to produce very bad scorching. They conclude that damage of the cuticle by insects, fungi or wind is the chief cause of the injury which often follows from spraying with Bordeaux. In confirma- tion they point to their observations that whereas the damaged leaves of trees sprayed with Bordeaux mixture may be shown bv analysis to contain copper, un- damaged leaves contain none. They show in another contribution that Apple foliage is very liable to windscorch, due to mechanical injury produced by one leaf rubbing against another. We hope that Messrs. Barker and Giningham will pursue these investiga- tions, extending them to those varieties of Apple, such as Cox's Orange Pippin, which are peculiarly susceptible to scorching by Bordeaux mixture. It may well be that they are right, and that the greater dam- age in these varieties is due to their more delicate, and hence more easily damaged, leaves. The chemical nature and mode of action of Bordeaux mixture is also dis- cussed by Messrs. Barker and Giningham. They refer to Mr. Spencer Pickering's well-known investigations into the chemi- cal composition of the " effective in- gredient " of Bordeaux mixture. Accord- ing to these researches the ordinary mix- ture contains basic sulphates of copper with large excess of lime, whereas Woburn Bordeaux paste is free from excess of lime. Mr. Pickering, following Millardet and Gayon, attributes the fungicidal action to a gradual liberation of copper in soluble form, and holds that the carbon-dioxide of the atmosphere is the agent which liberates the soluble copper. Incidentally, it may be remarked that Mr. Pickering, who holds that Woburn paste is superior to ordinary Bordeaux mixture, attributes that supe- riority to the fact that the paste liberates more free soluble copper ; for in the case of ordinary Bordeaux mixture such copper as is liberated is recombined with the ex- cess of lime, and so put out of action. Not all mycologieal chemists, however, are agreed that the fungicidal action of Bordeaux mixture is to be explained on the purely chemical ground of liberation of soluble copper by carbon-dioxide. Some maintain that foliage exercises a solvent action on the sprayed deposit of copper sulphate, and suggest that the fungi them- selves dissolve and absorb sufficient of the copper to effect their own destruction. Experiments carried out at Long Ash- ton do not support the view that in nature carbon-dioxide is the solvent which releases the fungicidal soluble copper. Other of these experiments serve to show that uninjured leaves do not exert a solvent action on the copper in Bor- deaux mixture, though injured foliage un- doubtedly exercises such an action. There remains, therefore, the posibility of a direct solvent action by the fungus, mak- ing the latter its own executioner. Ex- periments with the spores of various fungi — species of Nectria. Puccinia and Sclero- tinia — lead the authors to the conclusion that certain fungi, provided that they are in immediate contact with them, act on the insoluble copper compounds of Bor- deaux mixture, liberate and absorb soluble copper produced by their action and thus poison themselves. The fact that poison- ing occurs only when the fungus spores are in immediate contact with the copper sulphate is of practical importance, for it shows how necessary it is for the sprav fluid to be distributed over the whole leaf- surface. If a spore is not in contact with a particle of copper it. germinates and mav infect the plant. If, on the other hand, contact is established, the spore is -killed — in fact commits suicide. An elegant experiment devised by the authors illustrates the fact that direct contact between the living cell and the Bordeaux mixture is necessary for the de- struction of the cell. Bordeaux paste was smeared in patches on flannel. Mustard seed was spread indiscriminately on the moistened flannel. Where the roots came into actual contact with the paste death en- sued ; where they did not the seedlings grew into healthy plants. Finally, Messrs. Barker and Giningham show that the undamaged cuticle of leaves of various plants is impermeable to copper sulphate, and hence that fungicidal action is not due to penetration and selective destruction by the copper. It is curious that no mention is made of the possibility of entrance of copper through the stomata. Such an entrance would seem by no means unlikely, and might prove to be a source of damage to the internal tissues ; par- ticularly at night when the intercellular spaces, shut off from the air by the closed stomata, are charged with carbon-dioxide. Coloured Plate.— The new race of winter-flowering Begonias of the type illustrated in our Coloured Plate has proved invaluable for the decoration of greenhouses and conserva- tories in winter, and the plants promise to be even greater favourites in gardens than those of the Grloire de Lorraine type. For one thing they afford greater variety in colour and habit, whilst the flowers are larger and generally of nobler appearance. The colours range through almost all shades of pink, rose, red, salmon, crimson, yellow, orange and scarlet. Scarlet Beauty has double and semi-double flowers in lax trusses — which show to advantage against the beautiful green foliage — a vigorous constitu- tion, and is very free flowering. The variety received the R.H.S. Award of Merit on Novem- ber 19, 1912, when it was exhibited with several other novelties by the raisers, Messrs. Clibrans, of Altrincham. The Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution.— The voting paper for the election on the 21st inst., at "Simpson's," Strand, con- tains a list of 62 applicants for the benefit, but the committee can only recommend the election of fifteen fresh annuitants. The election will be preceded by the annual meeting at 2.45 p.m., at which Sir Harry J. Veitch will preside. The poll will be taken at 3 p.m. and c'ose at 4 p.m. During the past year the widows of five pen- sioners have been placed on the funds in accord- ance with the rules. War Items. — In our last issue we referred to the reappearance of several French horticultural publications that had been suspended since the outbreak of the war. We are now pleased to record that the monthly Journal of the National Horticultural of France has again put in its welcome appearance. The present number, dated July-December, 1914, contains a brief reference to the temporary suspension of the society's labours, from which we extract the following paragraphs : — As soon as mobilisation was ordered the work of the society was inter- fered with owing to so many of its members being called to the front. M. Viger, the president, called a meeting on August 8 of those of his col- leagues who still remained in Paris. M. Nom- blot, the secretary, M. Le Clerc, the assistant secretary, M. Bonte, the society's business man- ager, and many of the members having gone to the front, it was found impossible to continue Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle." WINTER-FLOWERING BEGONIA, SCARLET BEAUTY (Raised by Messrs. Clibran's.) Jaxoaky 9, 191S.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 19 the regular working of the society. It was there- upon decided that the usual meetings and the publication of the Journal should be suspended until further order. The hall of the society was placed at the disposal of the Red Cross Society. On December 10 it was decided that the society might within certain limits recommence its operations, and certain resolutions were passed. Among them were the following : — The election of officers and members of the various committees which usually take place the last meeting in December and in January will not take place, but will be prorogued for a year ; the general meetings of the society and of the committees will be held for the time being on the second Thursday of each month. The Council voted unanimously that all ordinary and corre- sponding members of German and Austrian nationality, together with affiliated societies of those nationalities, be struck off the list. This will mean a loss of sixteen German subscribing or corresponding members and five Austrians, including eminent horticul- turists of international repute ; also the sever- ance of the society's connection with ten German and one Austrian affiliated horticultural societies. A committee of inquiry is to be appointed to ascertain the nature and extent of losses suffered by the nuTsery trade owing to the state of war. The next meeting will be held on January 14, when exhibits are invited. The contents of the number included reports of the fortnightly meetings held in July, list of new members, and various reports relating to the St. Petersburg Show in May, and the shows of the National Horticultural Society of France in Paris and in May last, the Rose Conference at Biarritz, etc. A roll of honour has been instituted in which the names of members who have been wounded, killed, or taken prisoners during the war, are to be included. Eight names under the three headings are given in the first instalment. We regret to learn that Albert Maumene, editor-in-chief of our Parisian contemporary, La Vis a la Campagne, is reported as having been wounded. For some years M. Maumene was sub-editor of Le Jardin. Mr. Alan L. Ramsay, a member of the firm of Messrs. Chas. Ramsay and Son, Balls Bridge Nurseries. Dublin, volunteered for service on the outbreak of war, and has been gazetted to a lieutenancy in the Royal Irish Regiment. He left Dublin on Christmas Eve to join the 2nd Battalion of his regiment at the front and was last heard of at Rouen. National Dahlia Society.— A conference on Dahlias will be held under the auspices of the National Dahlia Society at Carr's Restaur- ant, 264, Strand, on the 14th inst., at 7 p.m. The president, Mr. Reginald Cory, will pre- side. The following papers will be read : — (1) " The Evolution of the Cactus Dahlia," illus- trated by lantern slides, by Mr. Jas. Stred- wick; (2) "The Culture of the Collerette Dahlia," by Mr. J. T. West. Mr. Thomas Stevenson. — It is with great regret that we record the loss sustained by Mr. Thomas Stevenson, of Woburn Place Gardens, Addlestone, in the death of his wife. Mrs. Stevenson was ill only foT a very short period, and died on the morning of Christmas Day. Mr. Stevenson's numerous friends will deeply sympathise with him in his bereavement, and will be sorry to hear that his own health is far from satisfactory. He has four young children. Canadian Agriculture. —The annual re- port (1913) of Mr. Frank T. Shutt, the Dominion Chemist, contains two articles of special interest : one on the effects of climate on the composition of the Wheat grain, and the other on the differences between certain varieties of roots (Mangels, Turnips and Carrots) with respect to amounts of sugar and mineral matters. Mr. Shutt shows that hardness of, and amount of gluten in, one and the same variety of Wheat fluctuate according to the climatic conditions which obtain during the ripening period, and attributes the high quality of Canadian Wheat to the dry soil and high temperature which ob- tain in the Dominion during the late summer months. He finds also from analyses that con- siderable differences as to amount of sugar and mineral substances obtain between dif- ferent varieties of Mangel. The sugar Mangels Mammoth Long Red and Giant Yellow Inter- mediate stand highest in these respeots. Similar results were obtained with Turnips, which, how- ever, contain less sugar and mineral matter than are contained in Mangels. Inasmuch as sugar and mineral contents are a good index of feed- ing value, it follows that those engaged in raising new strains of "roots" should endeavour to combine heaviness of crop with high sugar and mineral content. That this has been done with marked success in the case of the Sugar Beet is well known, and that it has been done also with Mangels and Turnips is clear from the facts recorded above. Nevertheless, there would appear to be room yet for more work in the direction of "chemical selection." Trouble taken in this direction would be repaid, for there is good evidence that once a strain rich in sugar and mineral matter has been isolated, though it may and will show fluctuations in respect to these qualities, it breeds true to them. For example, Mr. Shutt has analysed the Man- gel varieties Gate Post and Giant Yellow Globe, grown side by side at Ottawa during thirteen years. Although each variety showed consider- able fluctuation in sugar content, yet in every year Gate Post had a sugar content higher than that of Giant Yellow Globe. Mr. Harry A. Bunyard.-Mt. Harry A. Bunyard, son of Mr. Thomas Bunyard and nephew of Mr. George Bunyard, Maidstone, is the president-elect of the New York Florists' Club. Mr. Bunyard left England in 1888 for New York, where he was engaged in Messrs. Peter Henderson and Co.'s nursery in Jersey City. Later he was engaged by Messrs. Pitcher and Manda as foreman in their her- baceous department, and subsequently he became a traveller, first for Clucas and Boddington Co., and afterwards for Arthur T. Boddtng- ton, with whom he has been for the past ten years. Mr. Bunyard is secretary of the Ameri- can Sweet Pea Society, and is an active member of many other horticultural and floricultural societies in the United States of America. The Lawes and Gilbert Centenary Fund.— The Board of Trustees of the Univer- sity of Illinois has given. $500 to the Lawes and Gilbert Centenary Fund. The gift is all the more significant in that the Illinois University possesses one of the best agricultural schools in the world, its distinguished staff including such well-known names as Dean Davenport, Prof. Cyril Hopkins, Prof. Mosier, and . others. TJiis donation nearly completes the fund, only £100 being now required to bring up the amount to £12,000. The secretary is Dr. E. J. Russell, Rothamsted Experimental Station, Harpenden. County Experimental Garden, Droit- wich. - The eighteenth annual report of this garden contains the records of Mr. Udale's ex- perimental work in the testing of varieties of fruit trees, the effects of pruning on yield and the influence of manures on the growth of fruit trees and vegetables. The tables published with the report are very instructive, especially in showing the vast difference between the yields of different varieties of Apple. These yields (average weight per tree) range, among standards, from 89 lbs. given by Bramley's Seedling to 8 lbs. by Cox's Orange Pippin. It would perhaps be more convenient if the table were divided into two parts — one for standards and one for bush trees, and if the varieties were tabulated in order of yield. We would suggest also that the varieties now grown should be separated into good and evil doers, that the trial should be continued with the former, but that the latter should serve for the purpose of another experiment, namely, the testing of the effects of such operations as manuring and root-pruning on their respective yields. Yet another suggestion : namely, that it would be of interest next year to publish a detailed list of annual yields of the trees since the experiment began. Such a table should prove of considerable value for several distinct pur- poses. In conclusion, we congratulate Mr. Udale on his excellent work, and wish that more counties would emulate the enterprise of Wor- cestershire in establishing a Horticultural Fruit station and in conducting it so vigorously. NOVELTIES OF 1914. {Continued from p. 2.) Of florists' flowers, such as Roses, Carnations,. Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, Sweet Peas and Nar- cissi, most of them with special societies devoted to their interests, there have been large numbers of new varieties, which have been duly described in these pages. If we may judge from the exhibits at the shows, stove plants still appear somewhat neglected, but Ferns are used for decorative pur- poses in increased numbers. Alpine and herba- ceous plants were never so popular as at present. The Hon. Vicary Gibbs, Aldenham. (gr. Mr. E. Beckett), showed on several occasions ex- tensive collections of Chinese shrubs and trees, included in which were many species not pre- viously available for public inspection. Fresh surprises from the same quarter may still be ex- pected, and already many consignments of seeds have been received from Mr. Reginald Fairer, now collecting in Thibet. The value of annuals and biennials for indoor and out-of-door cultiva- tion, and particularly for bedding purposes in the flower garden, appears to be more widely recog- nised, and the principal seedsmen have done their best to improve the different strains. The following new, rare or specially interest- ing plants have been illustrated in the Gar- deners' Chronicle in 1914 : — Acacia Baileyana and dealbata, parents of Acacia hybrid H. L. White, April 18, pp. 262-263. Achillea argentea at Kew, March 7, p. 169. Adiantum grossum, May 30, p. 372. Agathis vitiensis and cone, January 3, p. 11. Aloe pretoriensis, August 8, p. 106. Apple Harrv Pring, December 19, p. 396. Apple Norfolk Beauty, October 24, p. 276. Apple Peacemaker (Coloured Supp.), August 1. Aquilegia flabiata nana alba. May 9, p. 320. Arbutus Menziesii, March 14, p. 182. Aster batangensis at Glasnevin, September 12, p. 187. Baeria coronaria, November 28. p. 356. Bauhinia purpurea, August 22, p. 142. Begonia Altrincham Pink (Coloured Supp.), October 101 Begonia Lady Oarew, May 30, p. 373. Begonia Mrs Harrv Barton., October 24, p. 282. Begonia Nancy, October 31, p. 297. Begonia Eclipse (Coloured Supp.), June 27. Bignonia, Tweediana, June 6, p. 403. Britlonnstruni ionocalvx, August 8, p. 109. Buddleia Colvilei, August 15, pp. 127-128. Bomarea BanUsii, June 6, p. 390. Calceolaria Ballii. February 14. p. 102. Calceolaria John Innes. Juno 20. :». 433. Calceolaria Stewartii, May 23. p. 349. Campanula garganica W. H. Paine, July 4. p. 16. Campanula tomentosa Maud Landale. Mav 23. p. 359. Candytuft Little Prince. May 9, p. 312. Campanula velutina, September 26, p. 214. Carnation Gordon Douglas, July 4. p, 7. Carnation Wells' Champion " (Coloured Supp.). De- cember 5. Carnation Wivelsfleld White, October 31. p. Ceanothus Animis. October 10. D. 247. Celmisia Munroi, June 20. p. 439 Ohelranthus linifolius .11 Glasnevin, Septemnei l ', p 1S6. Chrysanthemum inodorum Bridal R i" ^pril -1. p. 232. Clematis montana sQperba; April 25. p. 287. Clematis SioltoMii. June 6. p. 404 Clematis vcrrieriensis, June 6, p. 393. 20 THE GA RDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 9, 1915. Clerodendron splendens (Coloured Supp.). July 11. Cotoneaster bacillaris and C. sahcifolia rugosa (Coloured Supp.). December 26. Crataegus foetida, March 28, p. 214. Crinum Moorei album, September 26, p. 223. Crinum Powelln (Coloured Supp.), June 13. Cupressus Govertiana, December 5, p. 365. Cupressus Macnabiana, December 26. p. 411. Cupressus torulosa, November 7, p. 305. Cyclamen pseud-ibericum, March 21, p. 200. Cyrtosperma Johnstonii, September 5, p. 177. Dahlia Oanopus, October 10, p. 254 Dahlia (Collerette) Tuskar (Coloured Supp.), May 23. Dahlia (Collerette) Skerrvvore (Coloured Supp.), March 14. Dahlia White Star, September 26, p. 221. Deutzia discolor var. elegantissiina, June 13, p. 415. Dierama pulcherrimum album, February 14, p. 105. Downingia elegans, February 7, p. 84. Echinopsis multiplex, August 22, p. 145. Erythronium Hendersonii, December 5, p. 371. Eugenia Ugnii outdoors. January 24, p. 52. Euphorbia biglandulosa at Glasnevin, March 21, p. 208. Euphorbia (reversion in), October 3. p. 230. Freesia Excelsior, February 28, p. 152. Gentiana septemfida lagodechiana, October 3, p. 232. Gladiolus Loveliness. August 8, p. 10H. Gladiolus Mrs. Atkinson, July 4, p. 8. Gladiolus White Giant, August 8, p. 111. Globularia incanescens, July 25, p 69. Gloriosa .Rothschildiana (Coloured Supp.), July 25. Gloriosa Rothschildiana citrina, July 25, p. 75. Hemitelia capensis (Supp.), Nov. 21. Hippeastrum Daphne (Coloured Supp.), August 22. Hippeastrujc pratense, June 20, p. 433 Hydrangea Etmcelant, October 31, p. 298 Iris Cantab, February 14, p. 113. Iris Danfordiae, February 28, p. 145. Iris Douglasiana var. alpha, June 6, p. 392. Iris felina, November 14, p. 321. Iris Florentina in masses, January 10, p. 20. Iris Goldcrest. May 30, p. 370. Iris histrio alba, December 19, p. 396. Iris histrio, February 28, p. 144 Iris Iota, p. 424 ; I. Kashmir White, p. 413 ; I. laevigata alba, p. 423, June 13. Iris reticulata, Caucasian form, February 28, p. 143. Iris Viola. June 20, p. 434 Iris Watsoniana, June 6. p. 391. Impatiens grandiflora, January 24, p. 60. Impatiens Herzogii (Coloured Supp.), January 24. Impatiens Holstii, January 24, p. 59. Inula acaulis, October 10, p. 247. Kahnia latifolia (Coloured Supp.), May 30. Kniphofia erecta and K. comosa. December 26, p. 410. I/ilium Henryii,' October 3. p. 233. Lilium Parry i, March 28. p. 217. Lilium sulphureum in Australia, October 3, p. 239. Lilium testaceum, January 17, p. 33. Leonotis Leonurus, November 14, p. 327. Leptosiphon aureus, February 7, p. 85. . Luculia gratissima, December 19, p. 404. Lupinus arboreus (Coloured Supp.), February 7. Lupinus arboreuB Snow Queen, February 7. p. 91. Meconopsis heterophylla, January 10, p. 19. Meconopsis quintuplinervis, November 14, p. 318. Metrosideros lucida, June 27, p. 450. Michauxia Tchihatcbeffii, July 18, p. 59. Narcissus Crater, April 25, p. 279. Narcissus Croesus, April 25, p. 278. Narcissus Golden Sceptre, April 25, p. 279. Narcissus Leedsii seedling, April 25, p. 279. Narcissus Morven, April 25, p. 279. Narcissus Northern. Queen, March 14, p. 191. Narcissus Scarlet Gem, April 25, p. 279. Narcissus White Maximus, April 25. p. 280. Nepenthes Sir Wm. Thiselton Dyer and N. ventricosa (Coloured Supp.), May 9. Osmanthus Delavayi, April 18, p. 269. Othonna decurrens, July 11. p. 27; 0. pachypoda, p. 23. Pachysandra procumbens. May 16, p. 335. Papaver orientale Perry's White (Coloured Supp.), August 15. Paulownia jmperialia fruits, August 22. p. 150. Pelargonium transvaalense, February 14, p. 103. Philadelphus Girandole, October 31, p. 296. Philageria Veitchii, June 6, p. 399. Philesia buxifolia (Coloured Supp.). June 6. Pileostegia viburnoides, October 3. p. 23R. Poinsettia pulcherrima rosea (Coloured Supp), Septem- ber 12. Polvstichum angulare plumosum var., November 7, "p. 311 Polvstichum angulare ramulosissimum. February 21, p. 124 Polystichum munitum undulatum. June 27, p. 451. Populus generosa, October 17, p. 268. Primula Farrar's No. 10. November "14, p. 319. Primula flava, November 28, p. 34ft. Primula malacoides. giant form, March 14, p. 180. Primula obconica, semi-double, September 5, p. 181. Primula Palinuri. September 26. p. 217. Primula sinensis, natural type, February 21, p. 131. Primula Viola -grand is, November £8, p. 347. Primula Winteri. April 4. p. 238. Prunus Sargentii, May 23, p. 346. Rhododendron moupinense, February 21, p. 133. Rhododendron Schlippenbachii (Supp.), January 3. Rhododendron Searsiae. May 16. p. 334. Ribes laurifolium. April 4, p. 239. Rose Augustus Hartmann, Julv 18, p. 49. Rose Autumn Tints. May 2, p. 303. Rose Margaret Dickson Hamill. July 18, p. 57. Rose Mrs. Bertram Walker; July 13, p. 51. Rose Princess Mary. Mav 2. p. 304. Rose Waltham Scarlet, July 18. p. 55. Sansevieria Laurentii. August 22, p 144. Saxifraga Faldons:de. March 14. p. 190. Silene alpestris grandiflora fl. pi., June 20, p. 442. Soldanella pusilla alba, March 28. p. 224. Streptocarpus Banksii, September 12, p. 192. Streptocarpus Blythinii, October 17, p. 260. Streptocarpus cyaneus, January 10, p. 31. Sweet Pea, Dobbie's Orange, June 20, p. 443. Sweet Pea Frilled Pink, May 21, p. 358. Sweet Peas under glass, September 5, pp. 170, 171. Syringa pinnatifolia, April 18, p. 269. Syringa Wilsonii, July 11. p. 26. Telopea speciosissima, May 23, p. 348. Tigndia pavonia varieties (Coloured Supp.), Feb- ruary 21. Tricuspidaria dependens (Coloured Supp.), January 10. Tropaeolum tuberosum, fasciated, February 21, p. 134. Tulip William Copeland (Coloured Supp.), November 7. Verbascum Warley Rose, June 13, p. 414. Viola gracilis, Februarv 7, p. 93. Viola Walter Welsh (Coloured Supp.), February 28. Xanthoceras sorbifolia fruits, August 22, p. 151. SELF-STERILITY IN FRUIT TREES. The question of self-sterility in fruit trees has recently attracted a good deal of attention among fruit-growers, and large numbers of observa- tions have been collected upon the subject-. Some few of these have undoubtedly considerable weight, but the majority of such evidence should be received with great caution. In dealing with so difficult a question as self- sterility it would seem to be obviously necessary to consider first of all if a single cause can be assigned, or if it may be so complex that such isolation is rendered difficult or even impossible. It is now generally assumed that the question is a simple one, that the pollen of " self- sterile " varieties is unable to function, and the remedy, therefore, is to find another variety which will supply fertile pollen. This opinion is sup- ported by evidence from experiment and from field observation. The experiments are worth considering in detail. The modus operandi is to enclose in a paper bag a truss of unopened flowers and to tie the bag around the base of the spur on. which •the flowers are borne. The flowers are then allowed to open naturally, and in some experi- ments the bag is removed and the stigma pol- linated. Other experimenters have considered that it is sufficient to allow the bag to remain, assuming that the compression of the flowers by a small bag will ensure some pollen Teach- ing the pistil. The results obtained by the latter procedure can scarcely be used as evidence of self-sterility. A further element of doubt in these bagging experiments arises from the difficulty of closing the mouth of a paper bag in, a manner which will entirely prevent the entrance of small insects, such as thrips, which may possibly act as pollen conveyers. A further point which requires clearing up is whether the confinement in a bag has any influence upon the development of the pistil or pollen. If, for in- stance, the increased temperature in a bag hastens the ripening of the pistil and not that of . the pollen, or vice versa, it may make a self-fertile variety into an apparently self- sterile variety. These are a few points which occur in the consideration of such bagging ex- periments, and the evidence would have been greatly strengthened if they had been tested at first. In the field observations a great danger exists that the observer may set out to find evidence to prove a theory he already holds. It is easy to imagine that the theory, once stated to the fruit- grower, would awaken certain half-forgotten memories and unverified facts wbich would Tapidly find their way to the note-book of the inquirer. Such evidence, if produced in suffi- cient amount, becomes " cumulative " and un- answerable ! The writer well remembers a visit to an X-ray specialist, who was at the same time a medical man. Before the photograph was taken and developed no questions were asked as to symptoms, as to do so might have suggested .certain things liable to influence the examination of the negative. If those engaged in investi- gating self-sterility would spend a year hunting for evidence pointing in the opposite direction a balancing of the two sides would be really instructive. But even when these doubts have been settled beyond cavil there remains a question of the first importance. Is a variety self-sterile under all conditions? Do soil, locality, climate and in- dividual vigour have no effect ? From zoological evidence upon this point, it would be rash to dismiss the question without further inquiry. The fact that fruit is often found on the out- side of orchards more thickly than in the centre is quoted as an illustration of the cross pollina- tion theory. This may, however, be due to the increased light and air which such trees receive, and it is equally common where mixed varieties are planted. Until these points have been dealt with it seem6 still more hazardous to consider this ques- tion of self -sterility in trees as settled, and that all that is necessary is to proceed to advise suit- able "mates" for such varieties. The practice of planting large numbers of one variety together lias been adopted for very de- finite economical reasons by fruit-growers, and ■to advise them to abandon it without very con- clusive evidence would be most unwise. It has so often happened that a valuable dis- covery has perished prematurely from overwork. After a winter when the mortality among hive- bees was quite unprecedented comes a bountiful fruit crop ! This fact alone should give some pause to the advanced wing , of the cross- pollinators. It may well be that some facts as to the fertility of fruit trees still lie beyond our present knowledge, and the question cannot yet be treated as answered by the evidence at present available. B. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. {The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions expressed by correspondents.) Late Peas (see p. 415, Vol. LVI).— On July 8 I sowed one pint of Latest of All Pea, and on November 5 I picked the first peck of pods ; on November 7 half a peck ; on November 14 one peck ; on November 23 half a peck ; on Decem- ber 5 not quite a peck. The cook said they gave more Peas than many of the summer varieties. Robert Hale, Marclimount, Chorlty Wood. A Selection of Apples. — I will en- deavour to answer Mr. Molyneux's several questions on p. 402, Vol. LVI. He remarks that he writes mainly for the beginner, and shows sympathy with him because of the number of varieties of Apples recommended by me in the issue of December 28 ; yet, at the bottom of his letter, Mr. Molyneux states that I am " singularly reticent " on the subject of the newer varieties. He is correct : the newer varieties were purposely omitted because the in- clusion of new and consequently untried varieties, entailing the lengthening of the list which Mr. Molyneux condemns as being already too long, might confuse the beginner. They were also omitted because a new variety requires to be grown under varying conditions before its qualities can be sufficiently deter- mined to recommend it for general planting. It is my practice to plant a few of the newer varieties as they appear, in order to test them by the side of the older sorts. Mr. Molyneux states that "apparently I do not class Grenadier as an early Apple," proceeds to mention about picking large fruits of Grenadier* on August 1, and asks if I can name another variety that produces such fruit at that date. I am willing to believe that Grenadier suits his particular district, but the fact of picking a green "Apple (however large) on a certain date does not make it ripe. I can quite appreciate the common sense of the market grower he mentions, who, apparently knowing his business, grows the Apple which serves him best— thins his fruit, and gets it on the market early, especially as Grenadier evidently does particularly well in bis district. The man in the street has to buy what he can get, but the average private gardener would prefer a riper Apple than Grenadier to send to his employer's table early, and several mentioned in my selection are ripe before Grenadier. That is where the needs of the privaite gardener are totally distinct from January 9, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 21 those of the market grower. Referring to my re- mark on p. 389, that "I would consider Lady Sudeley and Worcester Pearmain out of season when Rival and Charles Ross are fit to eat," I re- iterate that statement most emphatically. The fact of Worcester Pearmain being shown on December 1 did not make it eatable at that date. It showed principally that the exhibitor had an excellent storeroom in which to keep his fruit, and that he retained those early varieties to render his collection more complete, not neces- sarily to recommend it for eating in December. One more question Mr. Molyneux as lis : " Would I offer fruit to a connoisseur to taste in the fxuit- room for its appearance alone? " My answer to that is "No." But all visitors are not connois- seurs, and I may mention a little incident that occurred recently. Two ladies brought some Belgian soldiers to see the fruit-room ; the soldiers were made quite happy with large, good - looking fruits of Gascoyne's Scarlet Seedling and Peasgood's Nonesuch, the ladies accepting a medium-sized Cox's Orange Pippin, and all were pleased. Many are satisfied with a fruit that pleases the eye, and the fact that it is a Cox's Orange Pippin does not impress them in the least. Mr. Molyneux says "Irish Peach is a poor thing." I know one employer who has a great regard for that variety, esteeming it more than any other early Apple. Many prefer a soft Apple, like Wealthy, American Mother, or Melon Apple, and there appears to me no . real reason why they should not enjoy their fancy. I am quite satisfied with a fruit of Cox's Orange Pippin. Mr. Moly- neux states in the same column that the latter " will succeed almost anywhere if the grower will adapt himself to circumstances, especially in the matter of soil." I hope many private gardeners will take courage from this statement. For my own part, I think climatic conditions have also some bearing on success and failure, and I can imagine those who do not suc- ceed with this variety saying : ,( We do not all reside in such favoured fruit-growing districts as Hampshire or Kent." J. G. Weston, Eastwell Park Gardens, Kent. Canker in Apple Trees. — Canker in Apples is usually attributed to bad pruning and abrasion of the bark, whereby the spoTes of the canker-fungus enter the tree. ' But this does not agree with my experience, because I find the chief attacks of canker are found on the shoots of the current year following a rainy autumn like the one just closed, therefore ill pruning or damage to the bark cannot be the cause in this case. I have long since come to the conclu- sion that in our trees canker is caused 'by a cold, wet subsoil through which surplus water cannot readily percolate, especially in such times of wet weather as that experienced- during the whole of December, when rain fell on every day, and on twenty days in November, the two months giving a total of 16^ inches. These con- ditions cause stagnation at the roots, and even- tually set up canker in the branches and shoots, especially in the latter, when ithey are not matured. When I replant the roots nearer the surface in ground trenched 3 feet deep or more the trouble disappears and the tree gradually assumes its former healthy condition. I have conducted experiments with various recom- mended specifics, but I have decided from re- sults that nothing has. such a recuperating influence as coal gas tar. Thoroughly cut away the affected parts and paint the exposed surface with tar. The spring is the best time to do this, just before and when the sap is rising in March and April. E. Molyneux. August-sown Vegetables.- When calling at Sir Charles Bine Renshaw's, Barochan, Bishopton, recently, I was much interested in his stock of late-raised vegetables. In August, when war broke out, and the Royal Horticul- tural Society and the Gardeners' Chronicle re- commended that all vacant land should be planted, Sir Charles had about five acres in a corner of a field fenced off and ploughed. Mr. Smartt, the gardener, planted about 20,000 Cab- bages, 22,000 Leeks, and 15,000 Greens, which were all looking exceptionally well and promis- ing to be a good crop for snring cutting. Amongst the seeds sown he had Turnips Chirk Castle, White Stone, and Milan Purple Top, the two latter sorts being already fit for use. - Cabbage Lettuce Neapolitan was also ready for cutting. Spinach Beet, Austin's Crimson Globe Turnip Beet, Carrots, Parsnips and Onions were all in good condition, having come through some very severe weather, and the plants looked as if they -would withstand the winter and come in early. I may say these crops were all planted and sown in the third week of August, the Cab- bage plants being raised from seed sown in July. There is a very fine collection of flowering shrubs at Barochan. Glasgow. " Rural Improvement."-I was much in- terested by your reviewer's note on Rural Im- provement in the issue for December 5. It would seem that Mr. Waugh is on the right track, as he holds that to keep the people on the land they must make it pay and make the work pleasant. Often work on the land, whether done by gardeners or labourers, is neither the one nor the other. Even here in Ireland, where agricultural labourers can rent excellent cottages with a good parcel of ground (provided by the State) for Is. 6d. a week, there is a steady drift to the towns, and for this the whole system of government at present in vogue is perhaps to blame. What with indifferent railway service and extortionate freightage, very few water- ways, and an educational system that is only now beginning to give agriculture and horticul- ture a tithe of the credit which they deserve, beside the lack of amusements, etc., it is no wonder that people say : — To the towns and cities, let those who will stick to the land. I have before me a copy of Baxter's Library of Agricultural and Horticultural Knowledge, pub- lished in 1832, the opening thesis of which is entitled "Agriculture," and in it are some very sensible remarks on the subject of rural im- provement, the value of education, village libraries, innocent occupations, moral character, markets, agricultural education, with instruc- tion to all rural pupils, value of gardening in- struction, poverty as the cause of crime : and emigration. Judging from this old work we do not seem to have advanced far in eighty years. ' W. H. Johns. Fatsia japonica.— I was interested to read the note on Fatsia japonica by W. J. B. in the issue for December 5, p. 368, Vol. LVI. The plant should be grown more freely in borders, and for this purpose specimens which have become too large for the conservatory might be utilised either as individual specimens or in masses. Seedlings may be raised freely, provided the seed is new, and this method of propagation might be adopted in order to raise a stock for plant- ing out-of-doors. I am inclined to think that this plant is much hardier than is generally sup- posed, and suited for town as well as country gardens. There are large numbers of good speci- mens here in Belfast, both in the Botanic Gar- dens and other places, and the plants have with- stood very severe weather. Amongst other shrubs which seem to do well locally are Griselinia litoralis and Pittosporum Mayi, both of which are planted freely in small gardens, the former being as common as Laurels are in some districts. W. H. Johns, Horticultural In- structor, Municipal Technical Institute, Belfast. " Pernettiana" Roses.— Although the Rev. J. H. Pemberton and I do not agree upon the name of the new class of Roses officially termed Hybrid Austrian Briars by the National Rose Society, I think it only fair to point out an error that may be attributed to him in any future controversy on this subject, and one for which he is not to blame. In your report of the annual meeting of the National Rose Society (see p. 405, Vol. LVI.) you state that Mr. Pemberton said in reference to the origin of these Roses: "They were derivatives not of any Austrian Briar, but of Rosa lutea." This, of course, is quite wrong, as R. lutea is simply the botanical name of Austrian Yellow, and I could hardlv attribute such a glaring error to an authority of the stand- ing of Mr. Pemberton. I was present at the meeting, and listened with much interest to what he had to say on the matter because I took some part in the Council meeting when the de- cision was made to retain the name of Hybrid Austrian Briars so far as this class is concerned. What Mr. Pemberton did say was : " They are derivatives not of any Austrian Briar, but of Persian Yellow, a Rose that has nothing to do with Rosa lutea, etc." I am prompted to make this correction in common fairness to Mr. Pem- berton, as I know he is an out-and-out champion of the claims of M. Pernet-Ducher regarding the name of this class, whereas, on the contrary, I maintain that the honours are divided with another eminent rosarian. It may be well to point out, however, that R. lutea has been used with great advantage as a parent, and several splendid Roses now in commerce owe their origin to this species. I need not defend the action of the National Rose Society in naming this section Hybrid Austrian Briars. Persian Yellow— so largely used by the eminent French raiser — is most surely a member of the Luteae section (Dr. Crepin's scheme) of Roses, and any derivatives from it are, I think, quite correctly termed Hybrid Austrian Briars. George M. Taylor, Mid-Lothian. [We have submitted the above letter to Mr. Pemberton, who replies as follows : " Your note of my remarks at N.R.S. meeting is quite cor- rect. Austrian Yellow and R. lutea are distinct. I grow them both. (1) Austrian Yellow, intro- duced by Gerrard in 1596 ; (2) R. lutea, intro- duced by Miller in 1798. No. 1, I am told, grows in the Austrian Tyrol ; No. 2 grows not in the Tyrol, but in Persia. Persian Yellow is derived from R. lutea. Soleil d'Or, the offspring of Per- sian Yellow, is the first perpetual of the Per- nettiana class). The N.R.S. Council decided early last year to adopt the name ' Pernettiana.' At the next meeting this resolution was re- scinded, without notice on the agenda. I was not present, so cannot give the voting majority."] The "Journal" of the Royal Horti- cultural Society. — In your last issue, Mr. G. H. Engleheart complains of the number of Notes from American literature appearing in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, affects certain suggestions concerning them, and says they are " very dull padding," " quite valueless to the home reader." It is very un- likely that a discussion on alleged demerits in these Notes can be of interest to your readers, but in the interest of accuracy I should be glad if you would insert this letter. Mr. Engle- heart has been at the trouble of counting the abstracts (wrongly, indeed all his figures are in- accurate), and has singled out seven of them (quoting the title of only one. of the seven cor- rectly) as failing to provide him with either amusement or instruction. It would be super- fluous to most British readers to state that in n'o other country has scientific investigation been applied to the problems of plant cultivation to. such an extent as in the United States of America ; none has so highly organised a system of experiment stations, so many - men, or such large grants from public funds, and in none is the output of literature so enormous. Nor need' I discuss the value of a knowledge of the results of experimental work to those engaged in cultiva- tion, but I should like to point out very briefly some of the instruction contained in each of the Notes Mr. Engleheart singles out. That they gave him no amusement I can well believe : they were not intended to be amusing. I take them in the order he gives. 1. A new and apparently serious disease of a popular Apple is described ; it may at any time be introduced into Great Britain, if it is not here already. 2. Methods of propagating Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) are described. (We have soil and climate suit- able for these plants, and they appear to be a profitable crop in America.) 3. A new caterpillar pest in greenhouses, which may at any time be introduced here, is described, together with the best means of dealing with it. 4. Ladybirds are found to devour fungus spores as well as aphides : an additional reason fo"r protecting them. 5. Manganese has lately been boomed as a manure : here are related the dangers of excessive use. 6. A little-known spray made of flour-paste, or flour-paste and lime-sulphur, is reported to be effective on one of the most difficult pests of anv to kill— the red spider. 7. Lead chromate failed to control a biting insect, and lead chromate is just beginning to be strongly recommended as a spray against biting insects 'here. Zinc arsenit6 proved effective. Fred. J. Chittenden. 22 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jantjaey 9, 1915. POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (9). FRUITS DU CAP. La semaine dernier* a eu lieu, au marche de Covent Garden, le premier arrivage de Peches du Cap. Deja quelques Prunes et Abricots avaient ete offerts avant la Noel. Les premieres Peches etaient superbes ; on les payait is. 4d. piece. Pour des fruits de plein air, ce n'est pas mal ! II est vrai que les exportateurs font un choix severe des fruits a expedier, pour les- quels les importantes expeditions anterieures ont permis de determiner strictement les qualites Tequises. La conduite de6 machines frigorifiques au bateau doit aussi etre particulierement soignee pour permettre une conservation parfaite d'un fruit perissable comme la Peche, pendant cette longue traversee de Capetown a Southampton (seize jours). Dans quelques jours d'autres fruits arriveront par la meme ligne et notamment des Raisins (noirs et blancs). Le commerce anglais a su tirer un parti admirable des resources qu'offre 1'Afrique du Sud. Grace a leur situation au dela de 1'Equateur, les regions appartenant a la con- federation sud-africaine jouissent de l'ete pendant nos mois d'hiver et inversement; des fruits dont la production hivernale entraine chez nous des depenses considerables, murissent la bas en plein air aux memes epoques. Les prix en sont evidemment peu eleves, mais il suffisait de les amener dans notre hemisphere. Qui, cependant, aurait songe a soumettre a un voyage^ de quinze jours, trois semaines des fruits aussi delicats que la Peche, la Prune, l'Abricot, le Raisin? Et cependant des negociants avises ont tente la chose. Les applications du froid artificial permettaient deja de conserver pendant une duree assez longue des produits alimentaires, en maintenant dans les "frigos" ou locaux refrigeres une temperature basse et reguliere. Peu avant 1900, les chambres froides des navires faisant le trafic entre Capetown et l'Angleterre servirent aux premiers essais de transport de fruits. Inutile de dire qu'ils ne furent pas toujours eouronnes de succes. Les fruits arrivaient souvent en decomposition ou trop durs. On constata cependant bientot que, quand la temperature etait Testee convenable pendant la traversee, les echecs etaient dus a un facteur facile a eliminer : l'etat du fruit au moment de l'expedition, et cela par suite soit de blessures recues pendant la cueillette ou le transport, soit d'un degre peu convenable de maturite. Au bout de cinq ou six ans de tatonnements, des regies precises purent etre etablies, et il en est resulte cet essor prodigieux de l'exportation de fruits du Cap auquel nous assistons aujourd'hui. En 1899 l'exportation etait de 10,817 colis, en 1914 ce chiffre doit s'etre eleve a environ 500,000 colis (387,507 jusqu'au 14 avril). L'Union Castle Line, qui assume un service regulier entre Capetown et Southampton, a fait de grands efforts pour developper ce commerce. Ses bateaux sont specialement outilles pour le transport et ses tarifs extraordinairement bas. La tonne metrique revient a 40 6hellings, delivree a Londres, soit moins de cinq centimes par gros fruit, le seul qu'on a interet a expedier au loin. A la suite des secheresses dans les centres de culture, des prix eleves furent realises pendant la saison 1912-1913 : aussi des envois d'une im- portance considerable furent faits en 1913-1914. Un seul bateau, le Walmcr Castle, amena a Southampton la bagatelle de 38,472 colis ! Pen- dant que ce chargement se trouvait dans les carreaux de Covent Garden (debut de fevrier), les Peches se debitaient a des prix moins eleves qu'en plein ete ! II faut ajouter que beaucoup de producteurs exportaient tous les fruits disponibles sans egard pour leur qualite. Des pertes s'en suivirent inevitablenient. {A suivre.) NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Exposition de Jacinthes. — Le 23 de- cembre a eu lieu a Haarlem la quatrieme exposi- tion hivernale de Jacinthes. Ces expositions ont pour but de promouvoir le foTcage des plantes bulbeuses en hiver. La production native de Jacinthes avait rencontre de grandes difficultes et beaucoup de forceurs s'en tenaient a la Jacinthe dite romaine. Les Hollandais ont essaye de transplanter les bulbes dans le Midi de la France en vue de les rendre plus precoces, et plus recemment un procede special, la prepara- tion, qui les rend independants de l'etranger, a ete applique. II consist* a enlever les bulbes lorsque les feuilles sont encore vertes et a les maintenir pendant quinze jour's — trois semaines dans un local chauffe a 29° C. (80° Fahr.). EUes sont ensuite transportees dans un endroit frais ou on les empote au mois d'aout. Ce procede a donne d'excellents resultats. A cette exposition etaient aussi presentees des bulbes de Jacinthes qui, a la suite d'une preparation 6peciale, por- taient jusqu'a treize fleurfi. Commerce avec l Ennemi P— Un journal horticole anglais a fait remarquer recemment que certains produits importer actuellement en An- gleterre par la Hollande, eeraient originaires de regions beiges occupees par 1 'ennemi. II semble qu'au cas oil cela serait, le gouvernement anglais n'aurait aucun avantage a mettre fin a ce trafic ; il ne s'agirait nullement de commerce avec rennemi ("trade with enemy") et certaines categories de Beiges pourraien/t y trouver lemoyen de sauver une partie de leur production. Chambre Syndicale des Fleuristes en Boutique de Paris. — Dans son assemblee generale du 17 novembre, 1914, cette association a decide le boycottage de tou6 les produits d'origine allemande. Elle declare : 1. Qu'elle chassera de son sein et qu'elle considerera comme indigne d'appartenir a la corporation, comme traitre a notre pays et comme un ennemi, tout fleuriste en boutique de Paris, et tout fournisseur qui emploiera un Allemand. 2. Qu'elle interdit formellement a ses membres, sous peine d 'exclu- sion immediate, toute vente de Muguet fleuri, retarde ou force ; le Muguet retarde ou force provenant directement ou pouvant indirectement provenir d'Allemagne ou il est cultive sur une grande cchelle.* 3. Qu'elle boycottera tout hor- ticulteur ou fournisseur reconnu coupable de s'etre approvisionne en Allemagne. Nouveautes horticoles. — La situation troubleo causee par la guerre a evidemment intlue sur le nombre de nouveautes presentees au cours de l'annee ecoulee. II n'y pas eu de meet- ings en France et en Belgique depuis l'ouverture des hostilites, et en Angleterre certains meetings furent suspendus, aux autres les apports furent moins nombreux, les nouveautes du continent faisant completement defaut. Avant le ler aout les Anglais avaient fait connaissance avec les • nouveautes suivantes, exposees par des horticul- * La situation n'est pas la meme en Angleterre. De fortes flnnes y conservent les Cl'iffes de Muguet en frigoriferc et sont concurrentes des maisons de Berlin et de Ilanibourg. teurs beiges et francais : Vuylstekeana insignis (M. Lambeau, de Bruxelles). Renanthera pul- chella (M. Peeters, de St. Gilles-lez-Bruxelles). Miltonia Princess Victoria Alexandra, M. Hyeaua Adonis, Odontioda Prince de Galles (M. Vuylsteke, de Loochristi). Cochlioda Graire- ana, Oncidioda Mauricii (M. H. Graire, d'Amiens). Esperons que l'ennemi aura bientot evacu<5 le Nord de la France et la Belgique et que les horticulteurs de ces pays pourront assister aussi nombreux que jamais, aux manifestations de I'horticulture anglaise ! Nul doute que nous verronssurgir en 1915 quantite do nouveautes presentees sous des noms que les evenements actuels auront rend us celebres. L'horticulture sera un puissant moyen pour rappeler aux generations futures les gloires de cette guerre pour le maintien du droit et de la liberte. La'Chicoree de Bruxelles est abon- dante en ce moment au marche de Londres. Les prix en sont extremement bas. Le produit est de qualite excellente. C'est le moment ou jamais pour les amateurs de ce legume de s'en procurer et de le faire apprecier en Angleterre. Les pro- ducteurs beiges font des efforts aupres de leurs nombreux compatriotes refugies en Angleterre pour lancer definitivement le produit. II est Stonnant qu'alors que les restaurants parisiens font figurer la Chicoree de Bruxelles sur toutes leurs cartes, les etablissements de Londres, qui ont les memes facilites pour se la procurer, n'en tiennent guere compte. M. Em. Draps-Boudry, dont nous avons annonce la presence a Ijondres, est reparti pour le Continent pour essayer de se rendre dans son etablissement horticole a Oost-Duinkerke-lez- Nieuport, qui a ete sous le feu des canons alle- mands. II semble que les serres dans les- quelles M. Draps a etabli ses cultures d'Oeillets americains sont maintenant a l'abri du bom- bardement. Quatre bombes sont tombees dans 1'etablissement, brisant tous les carreaux. Une autre est tombee a deux metres de l'habitation, mais n'a heureusement pas fait explosion. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. De eerste pruimen en perziken van de Kaap- kolonie zijn in Londen aangekomen. Weldra volgen druiven. Deze vruchten worden in open lucht gewonnen en hebben hier veel waarde daar ze in vollen winter aankomen. Van over een vijftiental jaren werden proeven gedaan om ze hier te brengen. Thans worden overgroote hoeveelheden verzonden ; elke vrucht afzonder- lijk omwonden met zijden papier en verpakt in kistjes met houtwol (of — snippers). Het ver- voer kost maar 50 fr. per kubiek meter tot Lon- den, duurt bijna drie weken ; de bewaring is mogelijk dank aan den lagen warmtegraad in de schepen door de koelmachienen behouden. Om Jacinthen te vervroegen, doet men in Holland de bollen uit voor de rijpheid van het loof en houdt ze veertien dagen-drie weken op eene warmte van 29°. Inpotting geschicdt in Augustus. De fransche bloemenwinkeliers heb- ben besloten die ambtgenooten uit hun midden te sluiten welke het minste duitsch goed zouden verkoopen. Brusselsch Witloof wordt aangeboden in de Londensche groentenmarkt en is zeer goedkoop. In de bloemenserren van M. Draps-Boudry te Oost-Duinkerke zijn, volgens men ons meldt, vier bommen gevallen die groote schade aange- richt hebben. January 9, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 23 SOCIETIES ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. January 5.— The first of the fortnightly meet- ings for 1915 was held on Tuesday last in the Society's Hall, Westminster. The exhibition was probably the smallest for some years past, and the attendance was also small, although we noticed many habitues, and there were full com- mittees. The Floral Committee made only four awards — one Award of Merit and three Medals to groups. The Orchid Committee granted one First-Class Certificate, four Awards of Merit, and four Medals to collections. The fruit and Vegetable Committee found nothing for their deliberations. Floral Committee. Present : H. B. May, Esq. (in the chair), Messrs. Jas. Hudson, C. T. Druery, G. Eeuthe, J. W. Moorman, C. R. Fielder, W. P. Thomson, Geo. Paul, W. G. Baker, Arthur Turner, Chas. Dixon, John Dickson, W. Bain, C. E. Shea, J. T. Bennett-Poe, Chas. E. Pearson, John Green, R. Hooper Pearson, W. J. Bean, E. A. Bowles, E. H. Jenkins, W. Cuthbertson, F. W. Harvey. Wm. Howe, and J. F. McLeod. AWARD OF MERIT. Pyracantha crenulata. — There are two forms of Pyracantha crenulata; one, a native of the Tem- perate Himalayas, has been in cultivation in this country for some considerable time. During Mr. Wilson's explorations in China he discovered a Pyracantha which has been identified as this species, and the new form is apparently the more hardy. A fine specimen of Wilson's plant was exhibited by the Hon. VlCARY Gibbs (gr. Mr. Edwin Beckett), for which the award was made. The plant was about ten feet high, of pyramidal shape, and covered with bunches of dull red berries, about the size of haws, but rounder. The leaves are dark green above, about 2 inches long and £ inch wide. GENERAL EXHIBITS Messrs. Allwood Bros., Wivelsfield, Hay- wards Heath, showed a small but select group of Carnations, in which the varieties Yellow Stone, Mary Allwood and Wivelsfield White were conspicuous. Messrs. H. Cannell and Sons, Eynsford, had a bright exhibit of ounches of Pelar- goniums, prettily interspersed with Primula malacoides and small Ferns. The varieties Hibernia, scarlet ; Sir Thomas Hanbury, crim- son ; Countess of Folkestone, pale pink ; and Queen of Italy, coral pink, are a selection. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Enfield, showed a batch of the useful winter-flowering Acacia platyptera, the pretty pink Crowea latifolia, the fragrant Daphne indica, and varieties of Per- petual-flowering Carnations. (Bronze Banksian Medal.) Messrs. H. B. May and Sons, Edmonton, again showed Poinsettias in variety, set off by beautiful Ferns ; a fine strain of Primula ob- conica, and splendidly-flowered Cyclamens. (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal.) Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons, Crawley, dis- played Alpines on a rockery, with dwarf shrubs suitable for rock-gardens. Mr. Clarence Elliott, Stevenage, exhibited Alpines in pots and dwarf Conifers. A basket of Gentiana acaulis was very pleasing. Mr. G. Reuthe, Keston, Kent, also- showed Alpines and dwarf shrubs, the latter including a beautiful specimen of Libocedrus Doniana. Messrs. Barr and Sons, King Street, Covent. Garden, exhibited the chaste Narcissus bulbo- codium monophyllum, the pale lavender-coloured Iris Vartanii and Galanthus Elwesii. Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond, Surrey, again showed decorative shrubs, including many in berry. (Bronze Banksian Medal.) Orchid Committee. Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. (in the chair), Sir Harry J. Veitch, Sir Jeremiah Colman. Bart., Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (hon. secretary), Gurney Wilson. W. Bolton. De B. Crawshav, W 1! White, J. E. Shill. A. Dve, W. P. Bound. W II. Hatcher. J. Cypher. W. Cobb, G. F. Moore, F. J. Hanbury, F. M. Ogilvie, A. McBean, T. Armstrong, R. G. Thwaites, S. Low, C. H. Curtis, and R. A. Rolfe. AWARDS. Flrst-olass Certificate. Cypripedium Christopher var. Grand Duke Nicholas {Actaeus var. Miss F. H. Cann x Leeanum Corona), from G. F. Moore, Chard- war, Bourton-on-the- Water (gr. Mr. Page). The finest of the light-coloured C. Actaeus crosses, both the good qualities of the plant and its excellent culture showing the variety at its best. The broad, dorsal sepal is white, with a small pale green base and scattered purple spots. The sepals, petals and lip are pale whitish-green, with a purplish tinge, and there are lines on the pure white variety with occasional yellow spots on the flowers, as in O. crispum xanthotes. A Cultural Commendation was awarded the grower. Cymbidium Coningsbyanum Broclchurst variety (grandifiorum x insigne), from F. J. Hanbury, Esq., Brockhurst, East Grinstead. A strong- growing variety with large, well-formed, cream- white flowers, marked with small, purplish spots. The plant bore two tall spikes of many flowers. Cypripedium Arthurianum Langley variety (Fairrieanum x insigne Harefield Hall), from Messrs. Flory and Black, Slough. This variety is a great improvement on previous forms, Fio. 5.- -cyprdpedium arthurianum langley variety. (See Orchid Awards.) petals. The original C. Christopher (Actaeus X Leeanum) (syn. C. Diadem) was flowered by Mr. W. Thompson in 1902. Awards of Merit. Cypripedium Py ramus Chardxuar Ideal {Hera Euryades x Mrs. Wm. Mostyn), from G. F. Moore, Esq. Resembles the original form illustrated in Gardeners' Chronicle, February 14, 1914, p. 114. but haft a larger dorsal sepal, which is whit" with cl-irctri'd spotting. The rest, of the flower is coloured Indian-yellow with mahogany- brown binge and markings. Odontoglossum eximium xanthotes (ardentis- siihum x crisnvm). from Sir Jeremiah Col- man, Bart., Gallon Park (gr. Mr. Collier). A especially in shape. The original, C. Arthuria- num, was raised by Messrs. Jas. Veitch and Sons, and described in Gardeners' Chronicle, 1874, II., p. 676, the ordinary C. insigne being used as a parent. When C. i. Harefield Hall was available the same firm made the cross again, with it and a fine C. Fairrieanum, and tht plants passed into the possession of Messrs. Flory and Black. GENERAL EXHIBITS. Messrs. Charlesworth and Co., Haywards Heath, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an attractive group of good plants, a fine speci- men of the rare Angraecum recurvum, with 24 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 9, 1915. over thirty of its elegant, fragrant, pure white flowers, being prominent. Angraecum sesqui- pedale, with two spikes of five and four large waxlike, white flowers, and a grand form of Sophro-Cattleya Saxa (C. Trianae Upland's var. x S. grandiflora) with large, deep red flowers. The fine Cypripedium minim, Cattleya Clotho, and the unique albino Zygopetalum Maekayi Charlesworthii were also noted. Messrs. Armstrong and Brown, Orehidhurst, Tunbridge Wells, staged a fine group, for which a Silver Flora Medal was awarded. There were thirty-five plants of Cattleya Maggie Raphael alba, ' some with four flowers on a spike. The new Odontoglossum naevross (naevium X Rossii) was pretty and interesting, and other crosses bore on their first flowers evidence of fine quality. The collection also included an exceptionally fine form of Odontoglossum Thomp- soniinum, Cypripedium Helen II. var. Arm- strongiae, and a finely-flowered Oncidium cory- nephorum. Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a group containing good hybrids and interesting rare species. At the back of the exhibit was Laelia Gouldiana, with Cattleya Maggie Raphael alba and some good C. Trianae, the variety Princess Patricia being white with soft pink front to the lip. The uncommon Odontoglossum Nevadense was included. Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbridge, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a well-ar- ranged group, in which tall hybrid Cymbi- diums were effective. The best were C. Doris, C. Gottianum and C. Alexanderi (insigne x eburneo-Lowianum), the variety albens having tall spikes of almost pure white flowers, of large size and fine substance ; Laelia anceps Schro- derae, also various Laelio-Cattleyas and Odon- tiodas. Messrs. Jas. Cypher and Sons, Cheltenham, received a Silver Banksian Medal for a fine group of Cypripediums. The leading forms of C. Leeanum. C. insigne, C. aureum and C. Actaeus were well represented. Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart. ■ (gr. Mr. Collier), showed Odontioda Othello (Odm. Othello x Oda. gattonensis), which closely resembled a purple- blotched Odontoglossum ; also a flower of a cross between 0. crispum and Oda. gattonensis, which was like a small sulphur-yellow 0. crispum. It was alleged that the 0. Kegeljani (polyxanthum) in Oda. gattonensis eliminated in the examples shown the influence of Cochlioda Noezliana, which is not impossible. Baron Bruno Schroder. The Dell, Englefield Green (gr. Mr. J. E. Shill), exhibited Cypripe- dium Hera-Beeckmannii in good form. R. G. Thwaites, Esq., Chessington, Streat- ham Hill, showed a fine dark form of Odonto- glossum percultum, together with other Orchids. J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Brackenhurst, Pembury (gr. Mr. J. Davis), showed for record- ing. Cattleya Phyllis (Lueddemania Stanleyi X Schroderae), a pretty flower of Peach blos- som tint. H. S. Goodson, Esq., Fairlawn, Putney (gr. Mr. G. E. Day), showed two pretty Odontiodas of unrecorded, parentage, and Odontoglossum Wieanianum Goodson's variety. Messrs. Flory and Black, Slough, showed Laelio-Cattleya Queen Elizabeth (L.-C. Gottoiana X C. Carmen), a light lilac-coloured flower with ruby-purple lip and yellow blotches on each side of the tube. F. J. 0. Montagu, Esq., Lynford, Norfolk, showed Cypripedium Archimedes (insigne Hare- field Hall x nitens magnificum). Messrs. Hassall and Co.. Southgate, showed a pretty form of Laelia' Cattleya Cecilia (C. Trianae x L.-C. luminosa) with yellowish-sal- mon-coloured flowers, having a Tich ruby-crim- son lip. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present : Jos. Cheal, Esq. (in the chair), Edwin Beckett, G. Reynolds, E. A. Buny'ard, Owen Thomas, John Harrison, W. Poupart. A. R. Allan, J. Jaques, A. W. Metcalfe, A. Bul- lock, and F. Perkins. . . The only exhibit was a dish of Aooles sent for naming, whicli the committee considered a local variety of littlo merit. ©bituar\\ John Morrison.— News of the death of Mr. John Morrison, gardener, Cults, Aberdeenshire, at his residence, Kirkbrae, Cults, reaches us from our correspondent in Scotland. Mr. Morrison was a native of the North of Ireland, and spent his early years in Scotland, serving an apprenticeship as a gardener at Delgaty, Turriff. He afterwards went to Roxburghshire, and settled in Cults about 15 years ago. David Young Mellis.— The Florists' Ex- change, records the death of Mr. David Young Mellis, nurseryman, Brooklyn, U.S.A. Mr. Mellis was a native of Stanley, Perthshire, and settled in America thirty-five" years ago. He was a member of the New York Florists' Asso- ciation and the Greater New York Florists' Asso- ciation. V -to' oTrejpondmbj CYANrorNG a Vinery : J. Mann. Follow the directions given in the reply to B. G., but use double the quantities recommended at first, and up to 2 oz. of sodium cyanide per 1,000 cubic feet. Cyaniding Azaleas : B. G. Phosphoric acid is recommended in preference to sulphuric acid as being less liable to cause scorching in the foliage. Sodium cyanide is preferable to potassium cyanide, being more effective and cheaper. To destroy mealy bug you must use the fumigate at great strength, but it is ad- visable to proceed with caution. Start with i oz. of sodium cyanide and i oz. of acid, diluted in 1 oz. of water for every 1,000 cubic feet contents. When you have ascertained the maximum amount of the gas the plants will withstand without injury, fumigate the house once weekly for three weeks. See Gardeners' Chronicle, Vol. LVL, July 25, 1914, p. 66. Hypericum patulum var. Henryi : Shrub. As you have grown your plant of Hypericum patulum var. Henryi indoors during the autumn, you should keep it in a cool place free from frost until May, when it may be planted out. The growths, if thin and weak, should then be shortened back to about half their length, or less, according to where the new shoots are developing on the stems. This Hypericum was only recently introduced from China, but, so far, it has proved to be thoroughly hardy iu this country, so that the less "coddling" it gets the better. Any of the growths detached with a portion of roots should grow. They be should taken off iu March, cut back to within two or three buds of the base, and then potted in small pots until May, when they should be planted out. This Hypericum attains to a height of 2 feet to 3 feet, and flowers out-of-doors from the middle of July to September continuously. Names of Fruits : Thomas Setter. 1, Scarlet Nonpareil ; 2. resembles Forge. — R. J. H. Baumann's Reinette. — O. A. C. Ribston Pip- pin. Names of Plants : A. B. H. Begonia fuchsi- oides var. elegans. — J. B. Lancaster. 1, Mos- chosma riparium ; 2, Pellionia Daveauana. — Adriane. 1, Cypripedium Arthurianum (Fair- rieanum x insigne'), a very good variety ; 2, Cypripedium Orion (concolor X insigne) ; 3, a form of Cypripedium Leeanum (Spicerianum X insigne). Potato Milecross Early : E. F. C. Write to the raisers. Messrs. Alex. Dickson and Sons, Ltd., 55, Royal Avenue, Belfast. Plants for Conservatory Decoration : Con- stant Header. In addition to the subjects you mention, the following is a list of plants suitable for conservatory decoration, with the months when they commence to flower. It must be understood that the dates are only approximate, as much depends upon the time the plants are propagated and their sub- sequent cultivation. Many subjects may be had in flower for at least three successive months. The selection includes subjects that can be grown in large batches, and takes no account of Ericas and the many other beautiful and useful hard-wooded subjects that should find a place in the conservatory. Liliums in variety should also be grown largely. Many annual subjects, if well cultivated, are very useful and effective. There is also a great variety of Begonias that prove very useful for conservatory decoration. January. — Eupa- torium petiolare, Reinwardtia tetragyna, R, trigyna, Freesias, Lachenalias, Azaleas of in- dicum type in variety, Spiraea prunifolia fl. pi., Lilacs and other forced shrubs; also Lily-of-the-VaUey, Narcissus, Tulips and Hyacinths. February. — Spamiannia africana, Cytisus fragrans, Erlangea tomentosa, Vel- theimia viridifolia, Cole.us snirensis, Clivia miniata, Boronia megastigma, Epacris in variety, Begonia manicata and Eupatorium ver- nale. March. — Chorizema ilicifolium, Richar- . dia Elliottiana, R. Mrs. Roosevelt. Eupatorium macrophyllum, E. atro-rubens, E. ianthinum, Stocks in variety and Mignonette. April. — Celsia Arcturus, C. cretica, Dimorphotheca Ecklonis, Mimulus glutinosus and var. coc- cineus, Begonia coccinea, and free-flowering Cannas in 6-inch pots. May. — Gesnera car- dinalis, Rehmannia angulata, Salvia splendens var. Glory of Zurich, Hydrangeas in variety, Lobelia tenuior, Statice Suworowi, S. sinuata, Jacobinia magnifica and var. carnea, Clarkias in variety, also annual Larkspurs and Gladioli such as Peach Blossom and Blushing Bride. June. — Kalanchoe flammea, K. kewensis, Plumbago capensis, Isoloma hirsu- tum, Streptosolon Jamesonii, Achimenes in variety, Statice profusa, S. imbricata, S. brassicaefolia, S. intermedia, Clerodendron fallax, which is generally grown as a stove plant but makes a perfect summer plant for the conservatory, and remains in flower for several months if raised from seed sown the previous August ; Gilia coronopif olia, also sown the previous July or August. July. — Francoa ramosa, F. sonchifolia, Crinum Powellii and its variety album, Browallia speciosa major (also useful for winter flower- ing), Acalypha. hispida and Campanula pyra- midalis (blue and white.) August.— Celosia cristata var. pyramidalis, Chironia ixifera. Agapanthus umbellatus, Impatiens Sultanii, I. Oliveri and I. Holstii ; the two last may be had in flower , all the year round. September. — Veronica speciosa in variety, Leonotis Leonurus, Salvia splendens, Nerines in variety, Chrysanthemum ftutescens and its variety Mrs. F. Sanders. Ofo&er:— Solanum Capsicastrum, Ardisia crenulata, Jacobinia chrysostephana, Bouvardias in var., Salvia azu'rea var. grandiflora and S. involucrata var. Bethellii. November. — Eranthemuni pul- chellum, Sparmannia. africana. . Richardia africana, Buddleia officinalis, B. asiatica, Lindenbergia grandiflora, Begonias in variety, such as Winter Cheer and Fascination. December. — Centropogon lucyanus, Pycno- stachys Dawei, Plumbago rosea. Begonin Gloire de Scaux and ' Begonia semperflorens gigantea rosea, which is nearly always in flower. Treatment of Vine Borders in Winter : M. W. We do not recommend covering Vine borders with manure during the winter. A mulch may he applied in summer after the ground has become warmed by the sun if the situation is hot or dry. If any part of the stem of a vine is exposed on the outside of the wall it should be protected from frost before growth commences. As your border is light, and some of the roots are near to the surface, a covering. 3 or 4 inches thick, of good loam mixed with wood or vegetable ashes and steamed bone-flour would be beneficial. Communications Beceived —Frank M. Bartram. U S.A. (Thanks for letter. We will forward the enclosure to Dr. Rouse directlv his whereabouts tre ascertained.)— F. W. E— North Devon— W. P. J.— W E. K.-Adriane— R. R — F. S— W. J.— W. R.— E M— P. De T— W. W.— E. S. W.— R. C— A. H.— A' g._c. J. G.-R. P-W. I.-F. W.-F. a— H. N. S. H.— T. S.— H. S. T.— Agarieus. January 16, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 25 THE (Barteiura' (Mpnxmdt No. 1,464.— SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 1915. CONTENTS. Aciphylla Traversii American Sweet Pea Society Apples, a selection of . . Black Fly of Beans Books, notices of - Botanical Magazine . . Crop Pest H an d book for Behar and Orissa Brompton Stocks Canada, shipments of nursery stock to C'istiiB albidns Florists' flowers— Notes on Poppies Flowering, unseasonable Foreign correspondence — Drosophyllum lusitani- cum Gardeners, frauds on 1 trapes, the shri veiling of Horticultural and other allusions Kew, the Marianne North Gallery at Manure heap, the Moss, the eradication of Obituary — deCrom, Jules Hye .. Muir, John Renton, Robert Orchid notes "Pour nos amis franyais et beiges " Raiufall, the Road dust, the preven- tion of Rosary, the — The Pernettiana Rose Roses, late-flowering . . Royal Horticultural Society's Journal, the Sedums, trial of . . Societies— Glasgow and West of Scotland Hort. Manchester and North of England Orchid . . Perpetual- flowering Carnation Royal Hort. (Scientific Committee) .. Timber, the utilisation of home-grown Vegetables — Cucumber Lord Roberts Spinach War and its effect on horticulture War items Week's work, the 28, ILLUSTRATIONS. Aciphylla Traversii, 31 ; inflorescence of Cymbidium Alexander! albens Drosophyllum lusitanicum WHY DO GRAPES SHRIVEL? IT is disappointing when to all appearances a crop of Grapes seemingly doing remarkably well— the leaves free from insects and of good substance and colour, the wood-growth of fair size and the vines altogether luxuriant, attempting to send out new growths continually —and yet before the fruit is fairly ripe it com- mences to shrivel, notwithstanding that strict attention has been paid to ventilation, tempera- tures, watering and damping. White Muscats are the most liable to this misfortune, but black varieties also suffer, and it is more likely to occur with young, vigorous vines in a rich border, than with older plants getting less sumptuous fare. I will confine my remarks principally to Mus- cats. Grapes of this class require a long season to bring them to perfection. To have the best results they should be started gently in the middle of February, and the fruit should be quite sweet by the middle of September, although the perfect golden colour may not be fully developed by that time. Over-doses of nitrogen produce large cells both in fruit and wood ; and if there is not at the same time a sufficiency of the other essential feeding materials taken in both by leaf and root and assimilated, these cells will not be ade- quately furnished, and although the fruit and the wood may remain plump during vigorous growth, they will partly collapse later on when less water is retained. Heat, water and abund- ance of nitrogen will produce gross, healthy- looking growth, but if there are lacking other essential materials that growth will not be per- fect ; it will be similar to an animal composed of fat and lacking bone and muscle. Phosphorus, lime and potash in assimilable form and sufficient quantities are essential to perfect growth, and even when there is no lack of these or other necessary soil ingredients suc- cess will not be attained without a sufficiency of sunlight. There is always more shrivelling in a dull season than in a bright one, provided the leaves are kept healthy and clean in both cases. In addition to the requisites named above there must be a sufficient area of leaf-surface, especially beyond the bunches of fruit, to collect the necessary amount of carbon dioxide, for we must remember that the main body of a plant, wi-th the exception of water, consists of carbon compounds; that this carbon is collected solely from the atmosphere by the leaves, and that not only is carbon dioxide necessary for the supply of this carbon, but that the other constituents of plant food, including those taken up by the roots, cannot be prepared and assimilated without the aid of light. The leaves beyond the fruit aTe in the best position foT preparing and perfecting the material for the supply and development of that fruit, as may easily be proved by the difference between bunches with only one or two leaves beyond them and those which have four perfect leaves. Water may be supplied by the upward current, but for the prepared food we must look to that descending from the upper leaves, and having these leaves we must see that there is nothing to prevent them carrying out their mission to the fullest extent. We know by experience that White Muscats want more direct sunlight to bring them to perfection than do black varieties. If shading becomes necessary it shows there is something fundamentally wrong in the culture, and perfect fruit is not likely ito be produced. Since leaf-exposure is of such im- portance, we see how wrong it is to place any impediment in the way of the work of the stomata. Elongation and expansion take place principally during darkness, and humidity assists these preliminary growth-processes; consolidation is favoured by sunlight and by an atmosphere which is not too humid. As the leaves are, so will the fruit be ; if the foTmer are not solidly built, although they may apparently have great substance, the latter will suffer in like manner. A close, humid atmosphere will produce expan- sion (suitable for unfertilised cucumbers), but it will not bring solidarity of growth. If you close a house early on a bright summer afternoon, syringe its occupants and damp down all available surfaces, as is so frequently recom- mended, you obstruct the light by the creation of vapour between the sun and the plants ; you cause a certain amount of shade by the deposi- tion of dew on the glas6; yon check the inhala- tions and exhalations through the stomata, the adjustable mechanism of which struggles to counteract your faulty treatment by opening to the fullest extent ; and then some of you, but not all, open the ventilators again at night for the time-honoured "chink of air," catching th» stomata again in an unguarded moment, chilling the leaves before they have time to diminish their openings. If you could only see the stomata striving, by frequently altering their mechanism, to counteract your kind intentions it would be a revelation and cause a change in your practice in many ways. Premature shrivelling, then, when it is not caused by shanking or by insufficient water at the roots, results from the cells being in- sufficiently furnished with the necessary matter to keep them tense at the time when there is less retention of water, which may happen when the fruit is fully grown. It may be owing to one or more of the following causes : — Want of sun-light acting on the leaves or in- sufficient leaf-surface. An atmosphere which is too close or too humid. The want of aeration, or of the necessary food constituents in the border, or the unsuitable physical conditions of the materials composing that border. Too much nitrogen, forcing the cells to an in- ordinate size. Too hard forcing in the early stages of growth. In connection with the last-mentioned specula- tion we must remember that no new extension of vine roots commences till some of the leaves are half expanded, consequently there can be no root-hairs (the only underground feeders) till after that time. When I was so fortunate as to have abund- ance of good loam and practically unlimited means there was no difficulty in keeping Muscats fresh and plump to the end of February, although I was then comparatively a novice at the work. But to keep in this manner the fruit must be perfect in every Tespect, and this cannot be if the growths are crowded. The rods should not be less than 4 feet apart, and 5 feet would be better. Every leaf which is not exposed to the light does more harm than good, and if the growths are so thinly arranged that some sun- light can reach through them to the border it is a decided advantage. The wires to which the rods are trained should not be less than 2 feet from the glass ; alternate scorching and freezing is not good for the leaves. I believe there is yet a fortune to be made in growing Muscats if the necessary skill and capital are employed, but one is of no use for this purpose without the otheT. Ten shillings a pound is no uncommon price for Muscats in January. Wm. Taylor. THE ROSARY. THE PERNETTIANA EOSE. In the year 1900 the first of a new race of per- petual-flowering Roses was introduced and named Soleil d'Or. Hitherto we had depended for our perpetuals on the China, 1786 ; the Noi- sette, 1817; the Bourbon, 1820; the Tea- scented and the Hybrid Perpetual, 1850 ; and the Hybrid Tea, 1870, which gathered up all that was best in the preceding perpetuals. After a lapse of another thirty years R. lutea, " The yellow Rose of Asia," was pressed into the ser- vice, and from it a new battalion of perpetuals is now in process of formation, a battalion of beautiful yellow, salmon and orange colours and varieties Tesistant to virulent attacks of mil- dew. And just as the class of Roses fir6t pro- duced by M. Philippe Noisette has ever since been known as " Noisette " and " Noisettiana," so also the mew race, of which Soleil d'Or, given to us by M. Pernet-Ducher, was the first to arrive, is now known throughout the world as " Pernettiana." Recognised officially by the Societe Nationale d'Horticulture de France and all the leading horticultural and Rose societies of the Continent, the name " Pernettiana " will take its place along with Hybrid Perpetual, Hybrid Tea and Tea until the special features of each have been so obliterated by intercrossing that a new classification sweeps all sections of modern Roses into the melting-pot. Soleil d'Or is the result of crossing an un- named Rose with Persian Yellow, a summer- flowering variety the progeny of R. lutea. Of the particular Rose which should be regarded as the original species rosarians in recent years have had to modify, if not altogether change, their opinions. To the writers of the 18th and 19th centuries the name R. lutea was regarded as synonymous with Austrian Yellow. And this is not surprising seeing that Austrian Yellow was brought to England by Gerrard so far back MS the year 1596, and remained in unchallenged position until another claimant to the title of 26 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jantaet 16. 1915. R. lutea came forward in 1798. The position of a Rose with a start of 200 years is not quickly upset, and the writer confesses that he at one time accepted the prevalent opinion of his earlier days. A Rose, called by early Eastern writers the Yellow Rose of Asia, was tinder cultivation in gardens of the Far East in the days, it is be- lieved, preceding the rise of the Roman Empire, and is described by Ibn-el-Facit in the 12th century as being of the colour of a Jonquil. M. Crepin was of opinion that this was R. lutea. According to M. Crepin R. lutea was discovered and brought to Europe by Miller in 1798, and is a native of Asia, found in Armenia and Persia. It is well known that M. Jules Gravereaux, in his celebrated garden at L'Hay, near Paris, has one of the most complete collections of Roses, both botanical and horticultural. A collection tabulated under the supervision of the late M. Crepin has been made, and it may be of interest to see the horticultural list of Roses grown at L'Hay in the year 1901 comprised under Section X. Luteae. It will be noticed that P. lutea, the species, stands at the head of the list, and below it is placed Austrian Yellow. They are each 6et out under different numbers (5,675, 5,676), which shows that at L'Hay the two are not regarded as identical. Name. Date. Rosa lutea . . (Miller, 17(iS) . . Austrian Briar. . Austrian Copper (Gerrard, 1596) Austrian Vellow (Gerrard, 1506) Capucine Jaune Capucine Rouge Double Jaune .. (Williams) Harrisonii .. (Harrison, 1830) Jaune ancien . . Jaune bicolor .. (Autriche) Juliette Ouviere (L'HIiy, 1901) .. Madeleine Fillot (L'Hay, 1901) . . Persian i'ellow (Willock, 1837 Description. R. sauvage. Jaune capucine. Rouge cuivre. Jaune vif. Jaune brun. Cuivre rouge. Jaune paille. Jaune. Jaune soufre. Jaune et eapneine. Jaune brique. Rouge brique. Jaune d'or. Soleil d'Or Tuikiscbe rose. (Peinet-Ducher. WOO) Jaune vif et or. Jaune et carmin. THE PACKING OF CANADIAN SHIPMENTS OF NURSERY STOCK. Supposing we adhere to the earlier opinion that the Rose of 1596 and not the Rosa of 1798 is the true R. lutea, we shall doubtless at the same time be quite prepared to admit that it is an Asiatic species, having its central home in Persia. If 60, why then retain the title " Aus- trian Briar," which conveys no indication of its Asiatic origin? On the other hand, if Austrian Yellow and Persian Yellow are both the off- spring of R. lutea they have a common parent, a Persian Rose. And seeing that the new race owes its origin to Persian Yellow, what grounds are there for suggesting any longer, as some British catalogues do, that these new perpetuals were "made in Austria"? Apart from this, it may be pleaded that the term " Pernettiana " is incorrect from a botanical point of view, but the argument is weak whilst *' Noisettiana," so frequently used, remains un- challenged. It is, however, too late now to raise objection on this ground : the name has come to stay. Yes, the time has come for British growers to cast off their insularity and to step bravely into line with their Continental brethren. It is re- ported that the Council of the N.R.S. is waver- ing, in that in the early part of last year it re- solved to adopt the name of " Pernettiana," and one month later rescinded its resolution. Be that as it may, in the latest publication issued by the N.R.S. we read this phrase : "Austrian Briars, also known as Pernetian Roses." The love of compromise leads us sometimes into equivocal positions. We all have heard of " Venetian blinds," but of "Pernetian Ro6es " few heard before this publication issued from the Press. At the present time the term " Made in Aus- tria" is not popular, nor doe6 "Austrian Briar " seem quite suitable to a Persian Rose. No, let the summer-flowering varieties be ranged under the heading " Hybrids of R. lutea," and in support of the entente cordiale let the new race of perpetual and glorious coloured Roses inaugurated by an eminent French raiser be known by all as " Pernettiana." Joseph H. Pemberton, Havering, Essex. In the course of our inspection of nursery stock of various classes, including ornamental, fruit and Rose trees, our inspectors have fre- quently reported to me the lack of attention with respect to packing on the part of many firms in Great Britain shipping such nursery stocks to Canada. Shipment to Canadian points, especially points in Western Canada, involves a long journey, and the delays in transportation, etc., may increase the time shipments take to reach the consignees. During this journey the shipments are subject to great changes in temperature. It is obvious, therefore, that if particular attention is not paid to the protection of the plants against hay, straw, dead leaves and rubbish, all of which is liable to heat en route, with the result that the heated plants may be killed. Further,, hay is a poor preventive of frost, and much stock will arrive in a frozen condition when the- same might have been avoided by the use of moss or a more suitable packing material ; also, hay is a poor retainer of moisture, and stock is often injured by drying out. Stock from Ireland, Belgium, France, Japan, Holland and Germany usually arrives in excellent condition, owing to the fact that it is carefully packed in such materials as moss or peat, which proves that the poor condition in which English stock frequently arrives is entirely due to lack oif care and the use of unsuitable materials. . The remedy, therefore, lies in the hands of the nurserymen themselves. C. Gordon Hewitt, Dominion Entomologist, Ottawa, December, 1914. [Photograph by R. A. Mally. Fig. 6. — cymbidivm Alexander: albexs. such adverse factors as time and temperature the trees or plants will arrive in a poor if not dead condition. This will cause dissatisfaction both to the nurseryman and to the recipient. The former not infrequently will blame the transportation companies, the Customs officials, and even our inspectors (who may not have seen the stock until it reaches the consignor), or our fumigation stations (into which British nursery stock never enters, being exempt from fumiga- tion), for the condition of the stock on arrival, when bad packing was the real cause of the damage to or loss of the plants. As we desire to facilitate the extension of trade on the part of British nursery firms, it is thought desirable to call the attention of English nurserymen to this matter in order that they may take steps to protect their own in- terests by giving the satisfaction they desire to their Canadian customers. English (ship- ments for the most part arrive in Western Canada in a poor condition owing to poor pack- ing. The packing material usually consists of ORCHID NOTES AND CLEANINCS. CYMBIDIUM ALEXANDERI ALBENS. The introduction of Cymbidium insigne (San- deri) in 1905 was an important event, for its- varieties have furnished some of our best spring- flowering Orchids. But still more important ii the part which it has played in the hands of the hybridist, whereby a new section of stately winter and spring-flowering hybrids has been raised. C. insigne has been crossed with most of the other species, and all the progeny have the graceful habit and more or less erect flower- spikes of that species, to which, in the size and colouring of the flowers, most of them closely adhere, their ground colour being white with rose or purplish lines and markings of various tints. In the batch of Cymbidium Alexanderi (insigne X eburneo-Lowianum), raised by Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbridge, who have made a speciality of hybrid Cymbidiums, several have pure white flowers, the only other colour being January 16, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 27 a light-rose band inside the margin of the lip. The variety illustrated in fig. 6 was shown in the group staged by that firm at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, January 5. It is a noteworthy addition to the .section, the flowers being produced when they are most needed and lasting for several weeks either on the plant or as cut blooms. FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE. NOTICES OF BOOKS. Crop Pest Handbook for Behar and Orissa.* About twelve years ago the Government of India formed a Department of Agriculture for India, with experts such as chemists, mycolo- gists, entomologists, and the like. Here we liave one of the many fruits of that policy, a Crop Pest Handbook for a single province of India. The book consists of 80 leaflets, 14 appendices, 39 coloured plates of insect pests, and 14 of fun- gous pests. The leaflets are extremely simple; they give the name of the crop attacked, the pest and its many vernacular name6, the nature of the damage, the time the pest appears, a description of the recognisable stages (for which the plates are done), and a summary of possible remedies. The leaflets are arranged mainly according to crop, and the idea i6 that a farmer or gardener in Behar whose crop is attacked 'by a pest (insect or fungous) can look up the crop in this volume, find the disease by the symptoms, read the essen- tial facts about the disease and the preventive or remedial treatment ; he can then decide what to do. At least he knows all the essential facts and can form his own judgment. The feature of the volume is the plates. They are three-colour prints of extremely good paint- ings, each plate showing all the stages of one species, in a few cases the plate showing im- portant stages of all pests of one crop. The subjects are not magnified except where neces- sary. They represent what the farmer or gar- dener himself sees or can find. There is no other method of conveying information about pests to a class of people who actually grow plants, who cannot interpret diagrams, and who cannot trans- late a black-and-white diagram into terms of colour. Reviewing the volume as the officer originally responsible for very nearly all the insect plates, for the policy that made these plates available to all provinces of India, and for the policy of pub- lishing locad information in this way, I offer hearty congratulations to the compilers of this work. The volume is a model to other provinces of India of what to issue. Reviewing the volume as a worker in England, I can but confess to a feeling of shame that we can in Eng- land offer nothing in any way similar to this though England has had a Board of Agriculture for much longer than India its Department; but still England has little better than the leaflets its Board issues, with their crude, meaningless blocks in black-and-white, their often useless ad- vice and their often inaccurate facts. Is it any wonder that in India the Department has the confidence of the country, and that in England the Board has not? I would congratulate the authors of the Crop Pest Handbook on their accuracy and their com- monsense ; they have produced a volume likely to be of service to the educated landowners of their province, and one may well wish them the success they deserve. I wish every horticulturist in England could see this volume, with its beau- tiful colour-plates, its sensible, accurate informa- tion, and i its frank statements of what can be done to check pests, whether fungous or insect. I think then we in England would get nearer to the practical Department of Agriculture (and Horticulture) which India has. H . M. L. * Crop Pcxt Handbook for Behar and Orinna. Thacker' iSpink and Co., Calcutta, its. 4 (53. 4d.). colour is medium crimson with an intense black blotch on each of the four petals. DROSOPHYLLUM LUSITANICUM. Drosophyllum lusitanioum has flowered and borne 6eed in my Cattleya house. The culture of this plant is considered very difficult. It grows in Portugal in dry soils with species of Cistus. In the hothouse, on the contrary, the plant re- quires much moisture, yet it is Indispensable that the soil shall never be saturated. I raise the seeds on the surface of soil containing the roots of Ferns or Begonia seedlings, and the sowing is made in summer. Germination is very slow and irregular, and watering has to be done very care- fully, especially during the first month. The glands of this plant secrete a juice which attracts insects and the flowers catch many such visitors. F. Denis, Balaruc-les-Bains, Herault, France. FLORISTS' FLOWERS. NOTES ON POPPIES. Deservedly at the top of any list of annual Poppies must come the Shirley, the discovery of which, as all the world knows, we owe to the Fig. -DROSOPHYLLUM LUSITANICUM, AS RAISED FROM SEED BY M. F. DENIS. Rev. W. Wilks. This Poppy grew with me 3 feet high and produced a remarkable range of flowers of the most charming shades of colour. I am especially fond of the Picotee-edged forms, and of these the whites deeply edged with salmon-rose are first favourites. Seed must be sown thinly and the plants thinned in showery weather or after being well watered to at least 6 inches apart. Remarkably fine Shirley Poppies are sent to market by one large firm. They have for many years saved their own seed from selected plants. The plants are grown very strongly and the flowers are cut before they open ; they have strong, stiff stems at least 18 inches long. All Poppies should be cut in a half-open stage, as they develop quickly, clearly and well in water. Tulip Poppy (Pafaver glaucum). This Poppy grows about 2 feet in height ; the flowers are rich red (nearly scarlet) in colour. Each petal has a small black blotch at the base. The two inner petals persist in maintaining an upright, slightly incurved formation, resembling a Tulip ; hence its name. P. umbrosum. This wa6 the most effective in the mass of all the Poppies I grew. Twenty-four inches in height, it continued a long time in bloom. The P. The Admiral. A very showy and pretty variety 3 feet in height. Flowers scarlet with pure white blotch on each petal. In the bud stage it is most beau- tiful. Double Poppies. Carnation-flowered and Paeony-flowered are names which have been long associated with strains of double Poppie6, but now many dis- tinct colours have been selected and fixed. There aTe no better strains of double Poppies than those of which Cardinal is the type. The plants grow about 2 feet in height and the flowers are remarkably double, globular in shape, 4 to 5 inches in diameter. Cardinal- Scarlet has magnificent scarlet flowers, many of them 5 inches in diameter. Though the effect is scarlet, the individual petals have narrow white stripes on them. Two feet. Cardinal-White, very fine double white flowers, almost globular. Very pretty in bud stage. The foliage is silver-grey in colour. Two feet. Cardinal-Blush, salmon-blush flowers 4£ inches in diameter. Fine bold foliage. Two feet. Cardinal-Chamois, petals white ground colour striped with buff-pink. The tallest of the Car- dinals, reaching 3 feet. Two other fine double Poppies are White Swan, which grows 3 feet tall and produces abundance of pure white flowers, 3 to 4 inches in diameter; and The Mikado, which is quite distinct. It grows 3 feet in height. The petals are laciniated, the colour at the base is white, at the tips red or pink, giving the flower a mottled appearance. The foregoing were found the most effective and the most useful among a large number grown in a private garden. W. Cuth- bertson. VEGETABLES. CUCUMBER LORD ROBERTS. This splendid Cucumber ranks as one of the very best varieties introduced during recent years. It is distinctly an all-round variety, suited alike both for house and frame culture, but its chief value is for winter cropping — in- deed, I know of no other to equal it for this pur- pose. The plant possesses a Tobust constitution, which stands it an good stead during the winter. The fruits are medium length, very handsome in appearance, and of superior quality. At the time of writing (December 18) we have several fruits which would do themselves justice on the exhibition table, and I can strongly recommend the variety for sowing at this season, as it comes into fruiting much quicker than many others. SPINACH. This vegetable is usually in much request all through the year, but dn many localities winter Spinach is almost a failure this season. If the crop is in an unsatisfactory condition, I would strongly recommend those w-ho have the conveni- ence to make sowings in portable frames without delay. It is surprising what large quantities of leaves may be gathered from plants grown in this way, before we may hope to pick from plants in the open. Sow the seeds thinly, and raise the bed to within about 10 inches of the glass. Any of the improved large-leaved varie- ties are suitable. Edwin Beckett. Trial of Sedums at Wisley. — The attention of those who grow Sedums is directed to the trial of these plants at Wisley. The object of the trial is to determine nomenclature, which at present is not a little confused. All who are able to send specimens arc invited to despatch them not later than the end of February to the Director, R.H.S. Gardens. 28 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Januaky 16, 1915. The Week's Work. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By A. J. Cobb, Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duflryn, South Wales. Black Spot on Roses. — Where the slightest trace of this disease has been found in the past year, efforts must now be made to stamp it out. Perhaps no disease spreads more rapidly, and, as a writer has aptly stated, it is as catch- ing as smallpox. Various and drastic measures have been taken to exterminate the complaint, with very fair results, but as Roses are planted in various parts of these gardens, and :n places which make it impossible to be certain of getting all the spores, its total extinction will be a very difficult matter. I have not much faith in summer spraying, but all in- fested leaves should be picked off and burnt. We have tried spraying with the Bordeaux Mixture, Berger's lime-sulphur, and caustic alkali. The last is not considered to have any effect on fun- gous diseases, nevertheless our most satisfactory results have followed its application. Caution must be exercised as to the strength used, and it should first be tested on a worthless specimen. If used, however, when the buds are dormant, and at the strength given for spraying Peach trees, no harm will follow and much good may be expected. Before spraying, any leaves re- maining on the plants should be picked off, and an inch or so of the surface soil removed and burnt. Propagating Bedding Plants.— It is time to commence propagating such soft-wooded subjects as Heliotrope, Salvias, Lantanas, Ver- benas, Lobelias, Iresines, and Tropaeolums. The propagating case should be put in order, and everything got in readiness for a good start. A still more important item is the condition of the stock plants. These, if not already intro- duced into heat, should be placed in a genial temperature of 60° to favour the development of healthy young shoots. When the latter are about 2 inches to 3 inches long they should be made into cuttings and dibbled into a bed, pans, or pots, filled with sandy soil, pre- viously watered, and surfaced with a layer of dry sand. Press the cuttings in the soil firmly. They will root readily in a bottom heat of 75° to 80° if frequently sprinkled, and kept close, ad- mitting a little, air occasionally to dry up ex- cessive moisture. When rooted, gradually inure the plants to the ordinary air of the house, and afterwards pot them singly, except the Lobelia and Tropaeolum, which may be boxed. Helio- tropes, Salvias, and Lantanas should be grown on in 5-inch pots, filled with a moderately rich compost. Pinch the tips of shoots as desired, and nice bushy specimens will be obtained ready for planting in the beds at the end of May. Keep the plants free from pests ; red spider may give trouble with Salvias unless the syringe is used freely. Autumn-Struck Cuttings. — Both Zonal and Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums rooted from cuttings inserted last August in small pots or boxes may be potted, the size of pot to be governed by the strength of the plant. They will grow freely in a fruit house recently started. Transfer ' the plants to cooler quarters when they are ready. Fuchsias are best kept growing slowly all the winter. We use the variety Coralle for large vases, in which, with an edging of the grey- foliaged Gnaphalium microphyllum, it is very attractive. This Gnaphalium is a most useful bedding plant, and makes a beautiful informal edging to a bed of Salvia Zurich or Pelargonium Paul Crampel, if pegged down. For this pur- pose, autumn-rooted cuttings should now be placed two in a pot for pegging right and left. This species only requires the protection of ■>. cold frame to exclude very severe frosts ; a slight frost is not harmful. Plants grown as standards, such as Fuchsias, Calceolaria amplexi- caulis, Pelargonium Paul Crampel and P. Clorinda, Heliotrope, Lantanas and Strepto- solen Jamesonii, should be kept growing actively in a warm house near to the roof-glass. Re-pot the plants as required, and keep the side-growths pinched out, stopping the leading shoots when the plants are tall enough. Old plants may be grown in a cool house for a few more weeks before starting them into growth. Seed Order.— The seed order should be despatched at once, if not already gone, so that the seeds may be at hand when considered time to sow. When ordering, rely on well-tried varieties ; at the same time it is interesting to gTow a few novelties for trial. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate. Gardener to the Marquis of LINLITHGOW, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Successional Figs.— Complete the work of thinning the shoots of trees planted out before the sap is in motion, or damage will result. The roots of the Fig should always be under control and their run limited ; they are best planted in a portion of the border walled off from the rest. With such trees allow ample space between the shoots for the full development of the leaves. In the cultivation of Figs under glass it is im- portant to remember the necessity of keeping the roof-glass perfectly clean. Cucumbers. — A few seeds should be sown to provide plants for succession to those which have been fruiting during the winter. Germi- nate them in bottom heat, and afford little or no water until the seedlings appear. Fruiting plants require very careful treatment. Regulate the shoots thinly over the trellis, and water the roots with tepid water. Tomatos.— Sow seeds in a shallow pan, and germinate them in a warm house. The seeds germinate rather freely, and should therefore be sown thinly. When the plants are through the soil grow them on a shelf to prevent them becoming drawn. Vinery.— The earlier the work of pruning and cleaning dormant Vines is completed the better, provided, of course, that the leaves have fallen before operations are commenced. Old Vines, pruned on the spur system, become unsightly in time, and owing to their knotted condition, they form lurking-places for insect pests. It is advis- able to remove each year one or two of such spurs from every rod, and" make provision to secure a new rod from the base, provided there is a suit- able bud to form the necessary shoot. Where Vines are infested with mealy bug drastic mea- sures must be taken, and. although I have alreadv deprecated the practice of scraping and peeling the rods of the bark, in such cases it must be resorted to, as at this season the insects are to be found underneath the rough bark. If the work is done carefully, no damage to the inner bark should result. In cleansing the house, wash the wires and woodwork thoroughly with a petroleum solution, and double-wash the walls with lime. After the rods have been cleansed thoroughly, paint them with the petroleum solu- tion, and," whilst taking care to omit no part of the rods, do not let the specific come in contact with the buds. Last year I saw several rods where the eyes had failed to break, and this was apparently "due to carelessness in failing to ob- serve this necessary precaution. When the Vines start to grow, examine them from time to time, and, should there be any trace of mealy bug, destroy the pests by applying, with a small brush, a little spirit of*wine. Early Peaches in Pots — The fruits of the earliest Peach trees are sufficiently advanced for the first thinning to be done. Where fruits have set in sufficient numbers, first remove all badly- placed specimens, and those in clusters reduce to one. The final thinning must be de- ferred until the stoning period is over. The shoots on established trees should be shortened considerably by pinching. Syringe the trees twice daily, and do the work sufficiently early in the afternoon to allow the foliage to become dry before night time. Prevent at all times a stag- nant atmosphere, which would favour the spread of mildew. Trees in a healthy condition require watering each day, and in addition frequent applications of liquid manure. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. E. Lysaght, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Seedling Orchids.— In 1847 the Rev. W. Herbert stated that " cross-breeding among Orchidaceous plants would perhaps lead to very startling results, but, unfortunately, they are not easily raised by seed." The first part of the reverend gentleman's statement has proved to be true, but, happily, his other conclusion is erroneous, for seedling Orchids are now raised by the tens of thousands. In fact, in most estab- lishments hybrids are the principal feature, apart from exceptionally highly-coloured or albino- forms of the species. Almost everyone who culti- vates Orchids, even in a small way, soon begins "«o turn his attention to the fascinating pursuit of hybridisation. For the benefit of the beginner, it may be stated that Orchids are divided into two groups, epiphytes and terrestrial, and, as a general rule, the seed of terrestrial Orchids should be sown around tho base of a plant be- longing to the same genus. Success largely de- pends upon the selection of the host plant, and the subsequent treatment. An ideal host plant is one that will not need re-potting for at least twelve months ; and the soil must be sweet, free from moss, and other foreign growth. Odontoglossum seed is best sown around plants of the same class, and, for preference, fairly laTge seedlings should be selected. But it is always advisable to sow in several pots in order to ensure a crop of seedlings. Before sowing, the com- post should be watered thoroughly, and for several weeks afterwards extra care is necessary in affording moisture, or much of the seed maybe washed away. Epiphytic Orchids, and those of the Cattleya groups in particular, need a little different procedure. A small, heated case or frame should be placed at the warmer end of a warm house, where conditions conducive to quick germination can be maintained. These consist of equable temperatures and moist surround- ings, whereby the necessity of frequent waterings is considerably reduced, a factor which plays an important part in raising seedling Orchids. Preparation of the Seed- Pan.— Ordinary flower pots or pans without side holes may be chosen, and they should be filled one-third (f their depth with material for drainage. A piece of canvas, coarse calico, or cheese cloth, about four inches in diameter, should be laid on the hand, and filled with the usual compost or finely cut Sphagnum-moss, and then pressed tightly in the pot or pan. The surface should be half an inch below the rim of the pot, and the sides may be filled with a little chopped Sphagnum- moss from which the larger heads have been removed. Occasionally the seed fails to germin- ate on the canvas, when a good crop is secured on the Sphagnum-moss, while the reverse has been often recorded. The material in the pots should be watered thoroughly and, after a few hours, the seed sown. The soil must never be allowed to become dry. and should be shaded from strong sunlight. The best time to sow is directly the seed is ripe, but where capsules reach maturity during the late autumn and winter months, a portion of the seed may be stored until the days begin to lengthen. Each seed pot should contain a label with a number, corre- sponding to that in the stud book, in which particulars of the parentage and other details are recorded. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. Bv W. Hedlet Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Fark Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire. Pruning.— The work of pruning fruit trees may be undertaken at any time from autumn until spring, in mild weather, but it may be an ad- vantage to prune at a particular time found by experience to be best suited to the locality. Pruning may be commenced as soon as the leaves begin to fall, or in certain cases when the wood is well ripened, just before defoliation com- mences. Such early pruning affords great assist- ance to the fruit buds in bringing them to a proper degree of maturity. Although it is highly advantageous to prune trees thus early when th« wood is properly ripened, yet when the wood is sappy and the buds not in a mature condition, January 16, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 29 it is essential to defer the work until the spring, but not until the sap commences to rise, tor in this case bleeding would result. Moreover, unripe shoots are liable to injury from frost; therefore, when pruning is deferred until the spring, all such parts as may ha?e been injured can be seen and removed. if green, sappy shoots are pruned and frost fol- lows, the tissue is affected, as the sap is not sufficiently dense nor the wood sufficiently firm to resist injury from cold. For this reason the pruning of the Fig and Mulberry should be deferred until the spring. Some de- fer the pruning of Peach and Nectarine trees so late as April, when the blossoms are on the point of bursting. But ill effects following such procedure are often evident ; soon after the blossoms expand many cf those situated at the ends of the shoots wither and drop, the tree being considerably weakened. Where there are large numbers of wall trees, Peach, Nectarine and Apricot trees should be pruned first, then other kinds of fruit trees planted in a south aspect, next those growing against east and west walls, and finally those in a north aspect. By unskilful pruning, a tree may become almost destitute, of young, bearing wood near the centre or origin of the main branches, and this defect is frequently seen in trees after they have been planted for ten or twelve years, when they should be in their best condition of bearing. If the shoot of the pre- vious year be retained its full length all the growth will be at the upper part, and the lower part of the tree will become bare. This must be guarded against, and an endeavour made to obtain a new shoot as near as possible to the origin of the older one. By allowing the tree a greater extent of fruiting wood each year, until it has covered its allotted space, there will be a proper balance between root and branch growth, sufficient to keep it in a fruitful con- dition. If, when the tree has filled its allotted space, it should then be inclined to grow too vigorously, a greater quantity of fruit must be allowed, so that the extra sap may be expended therein, but this will very rarely be the case, for by the time that the tree has extended so far, its tendency to luxuriancy is generally on the decline. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. fly F. Jordan, Gardener to Lady Nunburnholme, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Tuberous Plints- Examine the stocks of Caladium, Gloxinia, and Richardia Elliottiana to see that the tubers are not too dry or the con- ditions too cold. A few of the best ripened plants may be started with others, such as Achimenes, if a display is required during the spring months. If early flowers are not re- quired the tubers may be rested for a few weeks longer. Place them in a house with an inter- mediate temperature, and afford water carefully until growth is well advanced. Plants in Frames.— Pay strict attention to plants such as Calceolarias, Violas, Pentstemons, Marguerites, and rock-garden plants, including Alpines, wintering in frames. Remove dead and decaying leaves. Ventilate the frames judi- ciously at all times in the absence of frost, and remove the lights entirely, if only for a short time, in favourable weather. Watering will rarely be necessary, and should be done early on a fine, breezy day, even if it means delaying the work for a day or two. Carnations.— Water plants in bloom with the greatest care, for an excess of moisture would cause the blooms to damp. But do not have the conditions so dry as to favour the spread of red spider. Be guided by the weather con- ditions, and take opportunity afforded by mild weather to ventilate the house freely. The plants may be afforded a little stimulant on occasions. Plants raised from cuttings rooted in December have been potted into 2-inch pots, and will require a further shift shortly. They should be grown in a light house, increasing the amount of ventilation as the plants become es- tablished. Now is a good time to root the main batch of cuttings in pots, boxes or frames, ac- cording to the number required ; the sand-bed is the best system where large quantities of plants are required. Select strong, healthy shoots from the middle of the plants, and do not attempt to grow too many varieties if space is limited. Maintain an even temperature of 50°, with a steady bottom heat of 55°, and do not exceed these temperatures or the constitution of the plants will be weakened. Chrysanthemums. -Continue to insert fresh batches of cuttings, and pot on rooted plants, growing them in a light position near the roof- glass, but in a place free from cold draughts. Admit plenty of ventilation as soon as the plants are well rooted to keep them sturdy and healthy. The potting compost should consist of good fibrous loam, leaf-mould, sand and a little wood- ash. Syringe the foliage lightly, and keep the house moderately close for a few days until the plants are established. Gesneras.— Gesneras are not so extensively cultivated as formerly, which is to be regretted, as they are handsome plants, and few subjects last longer for decorative purposes. Continue to keep the plants in an intermediate house and withhold water from the roots gradually as the plants pass out of flower until the corms are ripened, when they should be stored in a tempera- ture of 50° until required for re-potting. be broken into pieces about the size of a Walnut and placed 1 inch' under the surface 8 inches apart. Finally, make the surface firm and cover it with new loam to the depth of 1 inch, beating it firm with the back of a spade. The atmo- sphere of the house should be kept moist by damping the floor and walls and a covering of clean straw over the bed will hinder evaporation. THE APIARY. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Tomatos. — If ripe fruits are required in the first week of April the plants should be ready at this date for shifting into 10-inch pots, ana when this has been done they should be plunged in gentle bottom heat to encourage root action. Admit sufficient air to prevent the plants from becoming drawn. Young Tomatos grow best in a lean-to pit where a gentle hot-bed can be made ; then the first flowers will be on a level with the bottom wire of the trellis, which should be within 14 inches of the roof-glass. Grow the plants to single stems, and, when the flowers are ready for fertilisation, pollinate them by dusting the blooms with a soft brush or rabbit's tail. When the atmosphere is dry a night temperature of 55°, rising to 65° by day, will be suitable, admitting air freely when the weather is favourable. Water the roots with great care in the early stages. Seeds should be sown in pans of finely-sifted soil and germinated in a temperature of 65°, to produce plants for succession. When the seedlings are well through the soil stand the pots close to the roof-glass, in order to keep the plants stocky. Onions. — If large bulbs are desired a sowing should be made in boxes in a temperature of 50°. Use plenty of drainage and for compost loam and leaf-mould, with sufficient river sand to keep the material porous. The soil should be moderately dry and made firm. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them lightly with fine soil, which must be made firm. When the young plants appear grow them near to the roof-glass and ventilate the house or pit freely. Leeks.— The first sowing of Leeks may be made, and treated in the same manner as advised for Onions, but the soil should not be made quite so firm. Mushrooms.— Beds from which supplies are being gathered require very careful treatment, taking care not to over-water nor to damp the surface frequently. The atmosphere of the house may be kept moist by damping the floor and the walls, but a too frequent use of the water- pot is sure to cause disappointment. Continue to collect and prepare horse- droppings for the making of new beds. Much depends on the way the material is prepared, for if once allowed to become sour it will be of no value for the purpose. A dry, open shed should be selected and the droppings turned every second day until sufficient quantity has been collected for a bed. When prepared thoroughly, with no danger of becoming sour, the material should be removed to the house. Place a sufficient quantity together to cause the temperature to rise by fermentation to 85°, and at this stage the bed should be made, ramming the materials tightly. The depth of the bed should be at least 1 foot after ramming. When the tem- perature has dropped to 80° the spawn should By Chloris. The Season s Work.— To prevent the roof blowing off the hive drive in a strong peg on one side, fix to it a stout piece of rope — sash- cord by preference — and tie two bricks on the end, placing the rope and bricks over the roof. Allow the weights to swing free of the ground on the other side of the hive. If the quilts are wet from rain remove them at once and replace with a sufficiency of dry ones, taking care to leave no gaping corner to allow the heat of the hive to escape. In cases where the roofs are leaking painting will be the best remedy. The following will be found sufficient for any ordi- nary ten-frame hive for one coat. Take 1 lb. of white lead in oil and mix with equal quantities of linseed oil and turpentine ; but more oil may be used if it be the first coat of a new hive, and to make it dry quickly add a tablespoonful of gold size. For stone colour add a little yellow ochre and burnt umber to make the desired tint, but if a little sienna be added the stone colour will be found to have acquired a richer tint. Those who desire a lead or slate colour in order to avoid showing dirt should stir in a little vegetable- or lamp-black. It is not wise to use boiled linseed oil as it causes the paint to blister readily. Strain the paint through a piece of old stocking stretched over a paint can, pour on the paint a little at a time, and work it through the strainer with the brush. Rub down the hive with a piece of glasspaper before ap- plying the colour, and remember to apply the paint thinly, working it in well with the brush. When the paint has set fill in the cracks with putty before applying the second coat. The roof may be made safer by straining tightly a piece of calico over and bradding or tacking it along the edges, afterwards painting it with two or three coatings. It is useless to paint when the wood is rain-soaked, so if a leak be located get twopenny worth of gold size and rub over the crack, but if the opening be a large one, stop with putty or white lead, then stretch over a piece of calico and paint with gold size until better weather comes. Gold size is advocated for putting into paint for outside work in place of dryers, because it withstands the weather better. There is other work to do indoors if the year's work is to be crowned with success. To keep the bees healthy spare hives must be in readiness for the spring, so that all bees may be transferred to a clean hive as soon as the weather permits. I fear that the disease which has ravaged the country for the past few years has been made worse owing to the lack of sani- tary precautions on the part of beekeepers. Spare combs, after this moist season, should be overhauled, and mildew, if present, brushed off carefully with a soft hairbrush. As pre- vention is* better than cure, see the combs have sufficient ventilation, for a current of air will prevent mildew. Partly-filled section combs are often neglected, even to the point of render- ing them valueless as bait, and, when filled, saleable sections. Wrap them carefully in news- paper to protect them from the dust, and store in a cool, dry place. These sections will be the first to be sealed, and nothing looks worse than the wood of the sections not at its best when the honey is offered for sale. See that the smoker and veil are in working order, then check all appliances and prepare an order for all material that will be required during the year. Arrange the hives so that thev are not less than 6 feet apart, for where the hives are closer than 2 yards from one another there is always a Hanger of losing oueens when the latter return from their mating"fli?ht. This fact accounts for more queenless colonies than beekeepers are aware of. and this occurring at the height of the honey flow, results in a great loss in the total tako of honey. 30 THE GA RDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 16, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICE. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden. W-C- Editors and Publisher- — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice ■printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing to financial matters and to advertisements should be addressed to the Publisher ; and that all communications intended for publication, or referring to ■ the TAterary department, and all plants to be named, should be directed to the Editors. The two departments. Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed. Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editors do not undertake to pay for any contribu- tions or illustrations, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, wnless by special arrangement The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for any opinions expressed by their correspondents. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20— Roy. Met. Soc. ann. gen. meet., at Surveyors' Inst., at 7.30. THURSDAY, JANUARY 21— Brighton, Hove and Sussex Hurt. Soc. annual meet. Averagh Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 38.7. Actual Temperatures : — London, January 13 (6 p.m.) : 53°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London : Thursday . January 14 (10 a.m.) ; Bar. 29.6 ; Temp. 52°. Weather- Fine. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY— Herbaceous Plants and Hardy Bulbs, at 12, by Pro- theroe and Morris. 67 and 68, Oheapside, E.O. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— Rose Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, at Stevens's Rooms. 38, King Street, Covent Garden. MONDAY— Roses, at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. WEDNESDAY— Fruit Trees, Azalea*, etc., at 1, Japanese Liliums in cases, 3, by Protheroe and Morris. THURSDAY— Roses, at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. FRIDAY— Roses, Shrubs, at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. A. gardener has no need The Manure to be a chemist in order Heap. t0 realise that remark- able and far-reaching changes occur in farmyard manure during its storage in heaps. He knows, more- over, that many of these changes are use- ful— that is, they increase the value of the manure — and he may infer from the state of a heap which has heen left, unused for a very long time that other of the changes are of a kind which reduce the manurial value of the heap. Garden practice shows, moreover, that the series of chemical changes summed up in the word " fermentation " may be con- trolled to some extent by manipulation. For example, the " fire " may be taken out of the heap by constant turning, and so letting in air to facilitate oxidation. Thus in preparing a Mushroom bed the manure is kept loose and turned frequently, with the result that the fermentation processes are increased and the temperature rises. Presently, however, when the bed has been made firm the temperature inside it be- gins to fall and the bed is ready for spawn- ing. One reason why manure from a spent Mushroom bed, or manure which by turn- ing has had the fire taken out of it, is re- commended so frequently for certain gar- den purposes resides in the fact that it is free from an excess of ammonia, which, if present, might do considerable damage to the roots of plants. But this loss of am- monia is, from another point of view, a very serious matter to farmer or gardener. How considerable may be the loss from manure heaps of ammonia and other nitro- gen compounds has been demonstrated again and again. In the most recent ex- periments by Russell and Richards* this loss of nitrogen during storage was found to be from 25 to 33 per cent. The nitrogen lost in this way means, of course, a considerable reduction in value — for in the commerce of the garden nitrogen is money. One mode by which the heap sustains this loss' of nitrogen is as fol- lows:— Urea, one of the nitrogenous con- stituents derived from the liquid excreta of the farm animals which made the manure, is converted by one, and possibly more than one, specific micro-organism into ammonium carbonate — a substance which readily liberates its ammonia to the air. Russell and Richards, in their work ]ust cited, indicate another method whereby loss of nitrogen is sustained. These ob- servers state that a formation of nitrates goes on on the outside of the heap; but these nitrates if washed into the body of the heap undergo a sort of denitrifying process, as a result of which nitrogen is formed, and escapes into the air. Many attempts have been made to pre- vent the loss of ammonia by the addition of fixers; that is, substances which interact with the volatile ammonium carbonate to form a more stable compound. Gypsum, calcium sulphate, kainit (potassium and magnesium chloride), superphosphate (acid calcium phosphate) have all been tried, though without much success. Gardening books in particular often insist that gyp- sum is efficacious, but as a matter of fact for it to do its work effectually about one cwt. of gypsum would be required for every ton of farmyard manure; and, furthermore, the use of gypsum is open to the objection that some of it, as Mr. Hall points out in his valuable work on Ferti- lisers and Manures, may become reduced to the form of calcium sulphide, a sub- stance injurious to plants. A practice which does result in a reduc- tion of the loss of nitrogen from the manure heap consists in using a layer of old and well-rotted manure as the basis for a new heap, and this simple and effective device should be followed by all gardeners who have to make manure heaps. From what has been written it follows that the absence of that wasteful dark brown liquid from the foot of the heap is no guarantee that loss of nitrogen is not occurring; for the nitrates washed from the surface into the depth of the heap may, and certainly will, undergo decomposition, and thus give rise to nitro- gen, which escapes into the air. This loss may be reduced if the heap be made thoroughly firm, and if it be possible whilst making it firm to protect the manure heap from rain, the escape of nitrogen from it may be checked almost entirelv. There is room for further experiment as to the best means of protecting the manure heap from rain — a protection which, as we have shown, is of the greatest impor- tance. Possibly a thin layer of peat moss litter with a covering of earth might serve the purpose; or in the garden a layer of leaves covered with earth ; but in any case if the nitrogen is not to be lost some pro- tection must be given, and the heap must be made as compact as possible. • Journal of the Board of Agricvlture, No. 9. XXI. Our Supplementary Illustration.— The subjects for the Coloured Plate to be published with our next issue are Dahlias Worth Star, Low- field Star and Crawley Star. War Items. — The Royal Horticultural Society has received the following communica- tion from the Horticultural Society of Haute- Vienne through the vice-president of the National Federation of Societies of France : — "At the first meeting of the Horticultural Society of Haute-Vienne since the commencement of hostilities a resolution was passed associating the society with the telegram of sympathy sent by the Chairman of the National Horticul- tural Society of Franc© to the English horticul- turists, and to the great nation which gives France, in this struggle for right and justice, such brotherly help." Soon after the outbreak of war Messrs. Sutton and Sons invited their employees to make weekly contributions to the National Relief Fund, the firm offering to contribute to the fund an amount equal to the sum collected each week from the 6taff. Up to December 31 the amount with the firm's contributions totalled £245 12s. lid. A prominent horticulturist in Brussels, writing to a friend in London a fortnight ago, remarks that he is still at work but is not re- ceiving any salary. His '-ommunication shows great enthusiasm for the English and England, and he makes the poignant remark : " Here we trust entirely in England. It has heen fearful here." We learn that the youngest son of M. Pinguet-Gcindon (the well-known nurseryman, of Tours. France) is recovering from a serious wound and hopes to return to the front ere long. M. Pinguet-Guindon's eldest son is at the front. Sixty-six members of the staff of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Jiew, are serving with the forces. Recently three National Reservists, belonging to the uniformed section, have been called out, six ex-soldiers, three being from the uniformed section and three from the labour force, have rejoined the ranks, and ten young gardeners and the packer have enlisted either in the New Army, the Territorial Force, or the Naval Reserve. The Utilisation of Home-grown Timber. — The Director of Army Contracts, (1b), War Office, Whitehall, London, is advertising for manufacturers to tender for the supply of the following articles made solely, mainly, or partly of wood : — (1) Wooden tent-poles, white deal (poles), Elm (blocks) ; (2) wooden tent-pins, Beech, Ash or Oak ; (3) wooden picketing pegs, Ash ; (4) helves and handles, Ash ; (5) dry cooperage (cask vat), deal (heads), Oak (staves, battens and cants) ; (6) form and table tops, yellow or white deal. Copies of the specifica- tions giving full details for each article needed can be obtained on application to the Director at the address given above. Attention is drawn to the articles needed, as it is hoped that timber of the required kinds and dimensions may pos- sibly be shaped in the rough at estate sawmills and workshops, if landowners, factors, or timber merchants can be brought in touch with the manufacturers willing to enter into contract* Jan-uakt 16, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 31 with the War Office for the supply of any one or more of the articles mentioned. The Eradication of Moss. -Experiments carried out by Mr. R. G. Stapledon and re- ported in the Journal of the Board of Agricul- ture (No. 9, XXI.) show that superphospate is very efficacious in reducing moss in pastures. It appears probable that the effect is due to the acidity of the superphosphate. Other points of interest to the gardener are first the fact that certain mosses are favoured by the consolidation; of the surface soil and continuous and close grazing ; doubtless, in the case of lawns, by con- tinuous and close cutting and also rolling. Second, the old custom of fogging — i.e., allowing the grass to stand until the spring — tends to reduce the growth of moss. Third, that lim- ing is sometimes efficaoious ; and, fourth, that, basic slag tends in some cases to favour, and in others to check, the growth of moss. Road Dust Prevention.— The use of cal- cium chloride has been recommended frequently as a means of preventing dust on estate and farm roads. Trials made recently by Mr. W. A. Thain (Royal Agricultural College Scientific Bulletins, Nos. 4 and 5) serve to show that this substance is effective. Shovelled on at the rate of £lb. per square yard on each of two successive evenings it was found to be effective for two months. The action in dust prevention is due to the fact that calcium chloride is hygroscopic — that is, absorbs moisture and thus keeps the road surface from becoming dust-dry. It is without effect on boots, tyres, or feet of animals, and the dressing costs about ^d. per square yard. Rainfall in 1914.— Apart from the war no subject has been so much discussed during the past few months as the weather. Many, indeed, hold that the war is directly responsible for the abnormal rainfall — a most unlikely conclusion, seeing that the rains have come from the oppo- site quarter, and that drought prevailed during the early part of the war. But, whatever the cause, it will be seen from the reports sent ns by correspondents in various parts of the country that the rainfall in December was in the nature of a record. As stated on page vii. in the last issue, in Mr. Mawley's summary of the weather last month at Berkhamsted, it was the wettest December known in Berkhamsted during the fifty-nine years over which the local rainfall re- cords extend. In particulars sent us by corre- spondents several Tecord a fall of more than 9 inches for the month, whilst at one station 13.08 inches fell in December. Such heavy rainfall as this may astonish many, but it is a trifle com- pared with some parts, as will be seen from the following interesting details, published in the Observer : — " At Greenwich the total rainfall for December reached a total of 6.02 inches, against an average for the month of 1.85 inch. The greatest December rainfall ever before recorded at Greenwich was 5.76 inches in 1876, and only on five occasions in the last 100 years has any one month yielded more than 6 inches, October, 1880, holding the record with 7.65 inches. But when we turn to rain statistics from other parts of the world all London records shrink into in- significance. In July, 1911. it rained four con- secutive days at Luzon, in the Philippines, and the American official rain gauges registered 34.64 inches the first day, 29.99 inches the second, 16.73 inches the third, and 7.89 inches the fourth, a total of 88.14 inches (more than three times the average annual London rainfall) for the four days. Just previously the American engineers had completed a great military road from Dagupan to Baguio, at a cost of two million dollars, and at its inauguration one of tho speakers proudly said that it would "endure until the Pyramids crumbled to dust." But that one rainstorm almost completely obliterated the fifty-mile-long road from the surface of the earth. Yet the Philippine record is, as they say in America, ' a mere circumstance ' compared with some from the Cherrapunji district of India, where the annual average is 38 feet 2 inches ! In one day Cherrapunji has had to accommodate 40 inches of rain, in one month 30 feet, and in one year (1861) 75 feet 5 inches fell, nearly all between April and September." The rainfall at Osberton Gardens, Work- sop, for the year, as recorded by Mr. James B. Allan, amounted to 23 inches, or .43 inch day was January 23, when 12° of frost were registered. Mr. W. Mann, of the Observatory Gar- dens, Penllergaer, Swansea, records 202 wet days in the whole year, with a total rainfall for the year of 56.25 inches. As in all cases, December was the wettest month, but the total was only 9.74 inches, the maximum rainfall for one day in that month being 1.42 inch. For the three months July, August and September, the total Fig. 8. — aciphylla traversii, flowering for first time in cultivation in mr. travers' garden at wellington, new zealand. (See p. 34.) more than in 1913. The heaviest rainfall occurred on July 1, when .65 inch was regis- tered. April was the driest month, with only nine rainy days and a fall of .73 inch. In De- cember the rainfall amounted to 4.47, being the wettest month in the year. There were 177 rainy days in 1914, or tl more than in 1913. The hottest day was on June 30, when the ther- mometer registered 89° in the shade, being 1° more than the hottest day in 1913; the coldest rainfall was 15.66 inches, which was unusual in this dry summer. • Mr. Harold Evans, nurseryman, states that the rainfall at Llanishen, near Cardiff, amounted to 49.09 inches, compared with. 45.67 inches in 1913, and a mean fall in the past six years of 47.41 inches. Rain, was registered on 186 day6. June and Sep- tember were the driest months with only 32 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 16, 1915. eight rainy days each. More than 6 inches of rain fell in March, and more than 5 inches in July, but the wettest month was December, when 8.51 inches were recorded. Mr. J. B. Lowe, of Greenhill Gardens, Warminster, Wiltshire, informs us that the total rainfall for the year amounted to 42.23 inches, rain falling on 166 days. As in most cases, it is recorded that December was the wettest month, the total rainfall for the month being 8.38, and January was the driest month. ■ Mr. Edwin Molyneux, Swanmore Park Estate, Hampshire, states that rain fell on every day in December, making a total for that month of 11.73 inches. The total fall of the year amounted to 44.77 inches as compared with an average of 32 inches. The records at Eglinton Gardens, Ayr- shire, compiled by Mr. Willi am Priest, gave a total fall of 38.29 inches spread over 165 wet day6. March, August and December were all wet months, each with more than 5 inches of rain- fall. The year 1914 was drier than 1910-13. The rainfall was also recorded by Mr. Wilmot Yates, in the gardens at Rotherfield Park, Alton. Hampshire, where on December 9 2.07 inches of rain were registered, the total for that month being 13.08. The total for the whole year was 49.29 inches, and even in September — a dry month an most counties — 1.72 inch was re- corded. At Rotherfield rain fell on 184 days in the year, with a total of 49.29 inches. American Sweet Pea Society.— Three horticultural societies in America have offered prizes to the value of 400 dollars for competition at the American Sweet Pea Society's exhibition in 1915. In addition, eighteen firms, including MessTs. Sutton and Sons, offer prizes in the various classes, whilst the Society offers gold, silver and bronze medals besides the usual cash prizes. "The Botanical Magazine."— The issue for January contains illustrations and descrip- tions of the following plants : — Encephalartos Hildebranbttj, tab6. 8,592, 8,593. — This Cycad was first discovered on the East African coast in 1868, but it was not until two years later that the seeds sent to Europe germinated at Kew Gardens. In 1884 Sir John Kirk transmitted male and female plants to Kew, and these are still in vigorous health and growth in the Palm house and furnished the materials for the Botanical Magazine plate6. In 1876 the late Professor Reqel suggested the East African plant might prove to be no more than a local form of the Natal species E. villosus, Lem., and Professor Braun, supported by Professor Eichler, pointed out the differences between these 6pecies. In 1890 Professor Henninos re- verted to the view expressed by Regel, but Dr. Stapf, having investigated the problem in 1914, has conclusively proved that the view of Braun and Eichler is sound. The tree varies in height up to 20 feet, with sub-erect leaves up to 9 feet in length and 1 foot wide. The male cone is pedunc- ulate and cylindric, 8 to 18 inches long, 2^ to 4 inches thick, with brick-red or greenish-red scales. The female cone is 6ubsessile and cylin- dric up to 2 feet long and 7 inches thick, and leather-yellow in colour. The 6eeds are coloured vermilion, 11, inch long and | inch across. Both the male and female cones aTe reproduced natural size, with sketches of the plants. Cotoneaster i-annosa, tab. 8,594. — This shrub was discovered in 1886 in South-western Yunnan, at altitudes of about 8,000 feet, by the late Abbe Delavay. C. pannosa is sometimes confused with C. Franchetii. Bois, but it may be easily distinguished by its smaller leaves with longer petioles, purer white and more spreading petals, and smaller fruits, which are of a duller, deeper red. As a general rule the fruits are globose, but some are oval. The plant is perfectly hardy, thrives admirably in loam of good or even mode- rate quality, and is recommended for gardens situated on calcareous formations. It can he propagated from cuttings inserted in summer or by seeds. The shrub grows to a height of about 8 feet, and the fruit, roundish to oval, is deep red, covered with a loose tomentum. Mesembrtanthemum thecatum, tab. 8,595a. — The species is one of the novelties discovered by Professor Pearson, Director of the National Botanic Garden of South Africa at Kirstenbc6ch, near Cape Town, when journeying to the Orange River in 1910-11. It has thriven and flowered well since then at Kew under the conditions suit- able for Mesembryanthemums generally. The flowers open in the morning and close at night, are devoid of scent and last from four to six days. The bluish-green leaves are consolidated in obconic bodies, and the flowers, about half-an- inch across, are rose-coloured with a yellow eye. Mesembryanthemuv styxosum, tab. 8,595b. — This plant was also discovered by Professor Pearson on the same expedition. The flowers are bright yellow, and open in the day, but only in bright sunshine. They last for five to six days and are scentless. In winter the plant should be grown in a sunny greenhouse or frame, but during summer it may be planted out-of-doors. The flowers are about f to 1£ inch across, with 45-56 petals. Late-flowering Roses in South-Wes- tern Scotland.— The Rev. David R. Wil- liamson writes to us as follows on January 9 : " It may interest some of your many readers to learn that I had Roses in bloom up to Christmas Day last year. Among these were such fine varieties as Captain Hayward, Enchantress, Margaret Dickson and Viscountess Folkestone. I am planting all the latest English and Irish in- troductions, such as Countess Clanwilliam (one of the very loveliest of all Hybrid Teas), Ma- jestic and Mrs. Ambrose Riccardo, in the garden at Kirk House, Kirkmaiden, about a quarter of a mile from this Manse, where they will have an opener and sunnier situation then here, and fresh soil. There also (where I shall reside after May) I liope to cultivate a large number of Antirrhinums, Oriental Lilies, and Sweet Peas." The Marianne North Gallery of Paint- ings of Flowers at Kew.— A sixth edition of the descriptive catalogue of this unique collec- tion of paintings of flowers has been published, with some corrections and some additional name6 and notes. We call attention to this little pub- lication because we believe that many of our readers are not aware of the existence of the gal- lery. The building is situated in a eomewhat secluded part of the gardens, away from the princi- pal attractions, and 16 probably often overlooked. But it well deserves a visit, or rather visits, by all lovers of flowers. The paintings would not be classed as expressive of high art, but they are marvellously true to nature and highly in- structive. There are 848 pictures, mostly show- ing more than one kind of flower, and some of them at least half a dozen kinds. About 800 6pecies are named in the catalogue, and these represent 727 genera and 146 families, as limited in Bentham and Hooker's Genera Plantarum. More than double the number of species named are depicted, but specific names have only been given to those easy of identification. They were all painted by the talented donor, and, with few exceptions, in the countries to which they be- long, often with the scenery in which they are set. Taking the pictures in the order in whioh they are arranged on the walls, the countries represented are : Cliili, Brazil, Jamaica, North America, India (including Ceylon), South Africa, Seychelles, Teneriffe, Borneo and Java, Japan, New Zealand, Tas- mania, and Australia. In addition a num- ber of different plants from other countries are introduced in the decoration of the gallery. Th« catalogue opens with a short preface to the firs- edition by the late Sir Joseph Hooker, followed by a biographical sketch of Marianne North. Then an enumeration of the plante named. alphabetically arranged under their families, and a series of paragraphs on the general features of the vegetation of the countries visited. The catalogue proper occupies 130 pages, and the de- scriptions vary in length from one line to a quarter or a third of a page. These descriptions embody the popular names, properties, uses, etc., of the plants and their associations and affini- ties. Below the paintings is a panelled wainscot of polished woods from various countries. Thero are 246 panels, mostly named. An index to the subjects painted, including birds, etc., completes this useful little book. The gallery was opened in 1882 and enlarged in 1886 to accommodate some 200 additional paintings of South African and Seychelles plants, first embodied in the fourth edition of the catalogue. There are still some statements and statistics in need of cor- rection or modification. Thus, at p. xxxiv. . Mueller's estimate of the flowering plants and ferns of Australia known in 1882 as 8,800 specie* should be replaced by Maiden'6 up-to-date total of 10,673 species. And the statement in the de- scription of picture 777, that trees of Eucalyptus amygdalina had been measured that were more than 400 feet high, is now known to have been founded on inaccurate measurements, or even guesses. Dr. J. H. Maiden, the first authority on the genus, has not been able to establish a record of much over 300 feet for any species of Eucalyptus. Mr. R. A. Rolfe.— The Kew Bulletin notifies the appointment of Mr. Rolfe to the grade of Assistant First Class in the Herbarium, Kew, with effect from November 6 last. Mr. Rolfe, who entered the Herbarium in 1879, is a leading authority on Orchids and the editor of The Orchid Review. Royal Meteorological Society. — The annual general meeting of the Royal Meteoro- logical Society will be held at the Surveyors' In- stitution. 12, Great George Street, Westminster, on the 20th inst., at 7.30 p.m. Black Fly of Beans.- The pest of Beans and Peas known variously as thrips, black fly and thunder fly is known to every gardener, and beyond pinching off the tops and destroying them no satisfactory remedy has been devised. One point, however, emphasised in a note in the Journal of the Board of Agriculture (No. 9, 1914) deserves the attention of gardeners. This is that the thrips (Franklinella robusta, Uzel) after feeding for three or four weeks on the plants descend into the earth and remain quiescent until spring, when they pass through two pupae-like stages, and, becoming mature winged thrips, emerge from the soil, alight on Pea or Bean plants, and lay their eggs. It follows, therefore, that ground which has been the seat of an infestation should be trenched, and if the top spit can be turned in so much the better. A winter dressing of lime may also do good in destroying the resting thrips. Treat- ment of the soil with carbon-bisulphide or pos- sibly with naphthalene might also be tried by those inclined to experiment. Publications Received. — List of Seeds of Hardy Herbaceous Plants and of Trees and Shrubs. Bulletin of Miscellaneous Informa- tion. Appendix 1. 1915. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Price 2d. — The Horticultural Directory and Year Book for 1915. (London: Journal of Horticulture, Essex Street.) Price ls.net. - Quarterly Journal of Forestry, January, 1915, for the Royal English Arboricultural Society. (London : Laughton and Co., Ltd.) Price '2s. The Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. VI., Part 4. December, 1914. (London: Cambridge University Press.) Price 5s. net. — Register of Nurseries, Farms, etc., to be Let or Sold. January, 1915. (London: Messrs. Protheroe and Morris, Cheapside.)— Witling's Press Guide for 1915. (London : James Willing, Ltd., 125, Strand.) Price ls.-BuIletin of Mis- cellaneous Information, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. (London: Wyman and Sons, Ltd.) Price 7d January 16, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 33 POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (X). FRUITS DU CAP. (Suite de la p. .'.'■) Des experiences de l'espece engagerent le gouvernement sud-africain a exercer un con- trol serieux sur les envois. Les fruits qui ne supporteraient pas le transport sont refuses par les experts officiels ; ceux qui appartiennent a des varietes recommandables, qui sont cueillis an moment opportun et sont presentes dans un emballage satisfaisant, sont admis au tarif ex- tremement reduit de 40s. Les autres paient un supplement important. Ce traitement differen- tiel a pour resultat qu'en temps normal, seuls les produits de qualite font partie des envois, qui tous doivent faire un sejour preliminaire de 48 heures dans les magasins refrigeres de Cape- town. L'emballage exige est extremement simple : caisse plate de 30 cm. x 45 (dimensions exigees), un papier de soie autour de chaque fruit et dis- position en rangee unique sur une couohe de fibre do boifi, intervallee soigneusement remplis de la meme matiere. Les fruits ne souffrent pas des chocs inevitables au cours de la manipulation des colis. On nous signale a Covent Garden qu'il est rare de rencontrer des envois se trou- vant en mauvais etat, ce qui n'est pas une mince recommandation pour l'emballage. II est a Temarquer que le triage est rigoureuse- ment controle ; il doit se faire en tenant compte des dimensions minima exigees par le gouverne- ment. Le poids indique pour certains fruits doit etre inferieur de 5 pour cent au poids reel, ceci pour compenser la perte par evaporation. En un mot toutes mesures sont prises pour eviter que 1'acheteur ne soit induit en erreur sur la valeur du fruit. Bien que ce commerce soit de date recente, l'organisation en est deja parfaite ; il se fait dans les memes conditions que pour les produits du continent ; les producteurs expedient auv com- missionnaires de Covent Garden, qui disposent de representants sur place. Ceux-ci ont joue un role important dans l'amelioration du trafic en signalant les defauts des envois. Beaucoup des varietes recommandees de Poires, de Pommes, de Peches et meme de Raisins sont connues en Europe. Quelques unes sont refusees au tarif reduit parce que l'experience a prouve qu'elles arrivent difficilement. C'est le cas notamment pour les Poires Durondeau, Beurre Clairgeau, les Pommes tTes hatives, les Peches a chair jaune, etc. Malgre les frais supplemen- taires, des Durondeau arrivent cependant assez regulierement, cela grace sans doute a, l'insistance que met le consommateur europeen a reclamer ce fruit repute. La traversee dure seize jours. Primitivement, 1'arrivee a Southampton se faisait le samedi, et les fruits etaient offerts a Covent Garden des la pTemiere heure le lundi. Actuellement 1'arrivee a lieu le mercredi et, par suite de la guerre, Covent Garden ne les debite que le vendredi. II est admis dans les milieux competent* que les envois prendront encore plus d'impor- tance les annees suivantes, evidemment pas avant que la crise causee par la guerre n'ait pTis fin. Dans de nombreux centres de consom- mation. les fruits du Cap sont encore inconnus et tous les hivers des clients nouveaux font Jeur apparition a Covent Garden, qui approvisionne l'Europe, a 1'exeeption des etats germaniques, qui trouvent un marche distributeur a Hambourg. Untroisieme marche distributeur est celui de New York. D'apres une estimation serieuse, la Bel- gique recevrait 3,000 caisses par semaine, la Hol- lande 2,000. Le trafic se fait surtout par des per- sonnes qui en temps normal importent des fruits en Angleterre mais choment en hiver. FTequem- ment les Peches sont deballees a destination et presentees selon les usages du lieu de consom- mation . Jusqu'a present 1'exportation interesse les Peches, Prunes, Abricots, Brugnons, Raisins, Poires, Pommes, Melons, Oranges, Citrons, Ananas, Mangues et quelques autres fruits coloniaux. Un avenir particulierement brillant parait reserve a 1'exportation des Oranges. La qualite en est excellente dans le Sud-Africain ; la cueillette se fait vers septembre, alors que l'im- mense debouche que l'Europe offre a ce fruit en est depourvu. En 1913 1'exportation atteignait deja un total de 29,384 colis. Les Citrons des autres pays producteurs arrivant sur le marche europeen au moment de la Tecolte sud-africaine, 1'exporta- tion n'en est pas lucrative. Enfin les Ananas arrivent generalement en mauvais etat. On ignore encore s'il faut en rendre responsable le degre de maturite au moment de la cueillette ou la temperature maintenue pendant le trajet. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Aux Halles de Paris.— Les produits hor- ticoles ne prennent pas part a la hausse qui s'est manifestee dans les divers pavilions la semaine derniere. Les gelees n'ont pas ete assez fortes pour gener la culture des legumes. Ceux ci, de meme que les fruits, arrivent en quantite suffisante de la banlieue et de la province. Telegramme de Sympathie.— La Societe Royale d'Horticulture de Londres a recu la com- munication suivante : — " Limoges, le 21 decembre, 1914. — La Societe d'Horticulture de la Haute-Vienne, dans sa premiere reunion depuis la guerre, s'associe de tout coeur au tele- gramme de sympathie adresse par l'eminent president de la Societe Nationale d'Horticulture de France aux Horticulteurs anglais et a la noble nation britannique, qui donne a la France dans la lutte pour le droit et la justice, un concours si fraternel. — Pr. le President de la Societe d'Horticulture de la Haute-Vienne, Le Secre- taire-General." Les Concours acricoi.es en France.— Par arrete du 4 Janvier, 1915, le ministre de l'agriculture a decide la. suppression, pendant toute la duree de la guerre, des concours agri- coles de l'Etat: " Concours general de Paris, concours spedaux et de prime d'honneur." II a decide, en autre, que des subventions ne pour- ront etre accordees aux diverses associations pour l'organisation de concours qu'apres la cessation des hostilites. Le Fils cadet de M. Pinguet-Guindon, le pepinieriste bien connu de Tours, a ete serieusement blesse au cours d'un engagement avec les Allemands. Cependant il se retablit rapidement et il espere retourner au front a bref delai. Le fils aine de M. Pinguet-Guindon e6t egalement au front. Mort de M. Hve de Crom.— Une nonvelle affligeante nous arrive : M. Jules Hye de Crom est mort subitement la nuit du 6 Janvier. Nous ignorons encore les circonstances dans lesquelles l'orchidophile beige a trepasse. M. Hye, a la suite de l'invasion allemande, s'etait retire a Zundert, mais il nous est impossible de dire si son, deces s'est produit dans cette locality La perte de M. Hye de Crom sera vivement sentie dans le monde horticole. Avec cet autre amateur beige, M. Lambeau, il a rendu d'im- menses services a l'orcnidophilie. GTace a sa generosite, plusieurs coupes tres disputees avaient ete presentees aux meetings. Le dis- paru etait un habitue des grandes exposi- tions. A Chelsea en 1912, ce fut lui qui, an lunch, repondit au toast porte aux jures du Continent. Ses serres de Gand etaient fameuses, ses Cypripediums, Odontoglossums et Odontiodas figuraient avec eclat aux joutes in'ternationaLes. Au cours des dernieres annees, le Miltonia vexil- laria et hybrides le comptaient parmi leurs ad- mirateurs, el tout le monde se rappellera ses Miltonia Hyeana, qui rencontrerent un succes si eclatant aux dernieres Floralies de Gand (avril et aout, 1913). Les Fleurs en Allemagne.— De Tuinbouw, organe de la Federation horticole des Pays-Bas, donne d'interessants renseignements sur le commerce des fleurs avec l'Allemagne. II en resulte que les Allemands continuent reguliere- ment leurs achats de fleurs a Aalsmeer (Hol- lande), d'ou on conclut qu'ils mettent tout en oeuvre pour eviter un arret dans la vie eeonomique, en ne proscrivant pas les produits de luxe comme les fleurs, dont, 6trictement parlant, ils pourraient se passer. Le correspondant en profite pour rappeler que dans certains milieux hollandais on oublie trop les interets econo- miques de la nation, puisque l'emploi des fleurs y est si fortement affecte par la guerre. II suppose qu'une partie des fleurs est employee pour la decoration des tombes des soldats tues a la guerre, ou pour l'envoi, en temoignage d'interet, aux blesses soignes dans les hopitaux ; mais si la cul- ture hollandaise tTOuve en ce moment un bon debouche en Allemagne, il faut, sans doute, en grande partie, 1'attTibuer au fait que l'appro- visionnement en fleurs du Midi est interrompu. II resulte egalement des renseignements fournis dans De Tuinbouw que les horticulteurs fleraistes allemands menent une campagne en vue de l'em- ploi exclusif de leurs produits. Les fleurs culti- vees en pays neutre devraient etre proscrites. Les detaillants cependant ne paraissent nullement enclins a satisfaire a ces exigences. Rarete des Bulges Francais ?— Nous apprenons de source indirecte que certains pro- ducteurs francais ont porte a la connaissance de leurs correspondants americains, que la quantite de bulbes a fleurs disponibles la saison pro- chaine pourrait etre inferieure a la normale. A la suite de la mobilisation, la plantation aurait du etre effectuee par les femmes et les enfants, partant avec morns de soins. D'autre part une paTtie des bulbes n'auraient pu etre plantes. Peut etre un correspondant de France est-il a meme de nous fouruir des renseignements a c© eujet ? KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. Voor vruohten weinig geschikt tot den uitvoer moet meer dan vijftig frank betaald w-orden om ze van Kaapstad in Londen te brengen. Slechte worden niet aangenomen. Van Covent Garden worden naar de meeste europeesche landen Kaapvruchten gezonden. Men verwacht nog verdere uit-breiding van den handel. In 1899 bedroeg de uitvoer 10,817 colli ; in 1914 steeg het getal tot bij de 500.000. Tijdens den oorlog, zullen er in Frankrijk geen ofhcieele landbouw- prijskampen plaats hebben. Holland levert nog tamelijk veel bloemen aan de Duitschers, wat toegeschreven wordt aan de onmogelijkheid bloemen uit het Zuiden te krijgen. M. Jules Hye de Crom, de bekende orchideekweeker van Gent, is schielijk den 6 Januari overleden. 34 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jancakt 16, 1915. ACIPHYLLA TRAVERSII. The Aciphyllas belong to the Umbelliferae, hut are singular in being furnished with, long, stiff, pointed leaves; hence they are some- times called " Speargrass. " This xerophytic ■character is believed to have been developed to resist drought, though this explanation is not universally accepted. In the young 6tate the- leaves are flaccid and grass-like-; they are greedily devoured by sheep, consequently the plant is becoming extremely rare in its native habitat. . Aciphylla Traversii, Hook f., see fig. 8, HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions expressed by correspondents.) Cistus albidus: a Correction.— I happen to have noticed recently that in referring to this plant in an article on " The Riviera Flower Season " {Gardeners' Chronicle, March 28, 1908), I gave as a footnote : " Albia was the Roman name for Hyeres." Of course the specific name albidus must refer to the white-felted leaves of this Cistus ! Olbia was the ancient name for Hyeres, and it appears in the designation of such plants as the handsome Lavatera Olbia and in Ophrys olbiensis, a new hybrid recently de- FlG. 9. INFLORESCENCE OF ACIPHYLLA TRAVERSII. (See also fig. 8, p. 31.) is a native of the Chatham Islands, and is closely allied to A. Colensoi, from which, according to Mr. Cheeseman, it differs in the lees rigid and transversely-jointed leaf segments and scarcely pungent bracts. The flowers are usually dioe- cious ; the illustration in fig. 9 shows the in- florescence of a male .plant. Mr. H. H. Travers, of Wellington, New Zea- land, to whom we are indebted for the photo- graphs, informs us that until two years ago, when the plant flowered in his garden, it had not been known to flower outside its native habitat. It flowered again early in 1914, when the photo- graphs were taken. scribed bv Colonel Godfrev in the Journal of Botany (1913). H. S. Thompson. Frauds on Gardeners.— May I, through your columns, warn young gardeners against individuals who are touring the country and taking orders for gardening books? These orders are rarely fulfilled. The usual method of procedure is to obtain the sum of one guinea and to give in exchange a promise to send on m set of books which the " traveller " has " been able to obtain second-hand at Te- markably favourable rates" — so he says. The books never come. Sometimes a variation in the method of procedure takes place. Instead of selling books, offers are made to buy second- hand sets of particular works. The buyers take the books away, leaving behind pro- fuse promises of prompt payment (the cheque- book has been left at home and they have not sufficient cash on them), which same promises are rarely fulfilled. We are anxious to put a stop to practices of this description, and are endeavouring to collect sufficient evi- dence to safeguard the interests of gardeners in this direction. For this purpose we shall welcome details of transactions like those men- tioned above from gardeners and others who have been victimised. Cyril Harding, General Secretary, British Gardeners' Association, Ulysses, Fortune Green, N. W. Unseasonable Flowering.— I have been much impressed with the exceptional number of plants in flower at this time of the year. I am sending you a list taken on January 1 of plants in bloom. The annuals, alpines and shrubs are all in flower in the famous Happy Valley at Llandudno, where Roses, both Dwarfs and Climbers, have still a few blooms left upon them. Jasminum nudiflorum, Choisya ternata, Escal- lonia rubra, E. macrantha, E. langleyensis, Hypericum Moserianum, Fuchsias, Cydonia jap- onica rubra, Veronicas, Convolvulus Cneorum. Annuals. — Jacobaea, Chrysanthemum maximum (Shasta Daisies), Linaria maroccana hybrids, Eschscholzia caespitosa, E. californica, Violas, Scabious, Candytuft, Limnanthes Douglasii, Vir- ginian Stocks, Antirrhinums, Calendulas, Coreopsis. Alpines. — Anthemis Aizoon, Alyssum saxatile. A. Little Dorrit, Aubrietia graeca, A. purpurea, Antirrhinum sempervirens, Sedum coeruleum, S. oppositifolium, S. album, Hiera- cium aurantiacum, Saponaria calabrica, Linaria hepaticaefolia, Arctotis breviscapa, Venidium calendulaceum, Campanula muralis, C. fragilis, C. garganica, Gazania splendens, Iberis saxatilis. I. sempervirens, Lychnis Lagascae, Erigeron philadelphicus, Potentilla " Miss Willmott,^ Helianthemums and Godetia " Crimson Glow." A. C. Axtell, Gardener to Llandudno Urban Dis- trict Council. The "Journal" of the Royal Horti- cultural Society (see pp. 10, 21).— I fear I gave offence by my use of the word "padding." It, perhaps, implies a deliberate filling-in with make-weight material. I quite believe Mr. Chittenden thinks the para- graphs in question of sufficient value and interest to justify the large space given to them. I disagree with him, and so, I believe, do most of the readers of the Journal. I can answer for many of them. I will maintain my criticism in more polite, if more cumbrous Eng- lish, viz. : that the Journal is persistently amplified by a disproportionately large insertion of matter extraneous and practically unservice- able to British horticulture. That sounds better and means much the same. But Mr. Chittenden countercharges me with inaccuracy. All my figures, he says, are inaccurate. Well, here they are, in order : — First I wrote that the last volume contains, apart from the Society's proceedings, 163 pages of contributed matter. These are numbered 197 to 360, and therefore my state- ment is absolutely accurate. So is my second, that 60 of these pages are notes and abstracts. At all events they are numbered 300 to 360 in my copy. Thirdly, I wrote that the total number of paragraphs is 256 and the number of " Ameri- can " paragraphs 151. On a recount I find that the correct numbers are possibly 257 and 154. It seems I omitted one or two doubtfully Ameri- can and included one or two hailing from Vic- toria. Then Mr. Chittenden asserts that out of seven titles I quoted only one correctly. Here are the first three. The Journal prints them " Blueberry Culture," " Apple, The Rough-Bark Disease of Yellow Newtown," "Fern Cater- pillar, The Florida." I wrote them " Blueberry Culture," " The Rough-Bark Disease of Yellow Newtown," " The Fern Caterpillar of Florida Greenhouses " (because the context showed it to be a greenhouse insect). Similarly with the other four. I am sorry to fall back on another blunt English word and accuse Mr. Chittenden of quibbling. And a slight inaccuracy would not affect my contention. If I said that ninety- nine Teaders of the Journal agree with me, it would not matter if Mr. Chittenden proved them January IS, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 35 to be only ninety-eight. I grant all he saya about scientific investigation in America, and I suppose that by special pleading he can connect tho most exclusively American subject with British horticulture by some slender thread. But his efforts in this direction do not impress me. A peculiar disease of a peculiarly American Apple might be introduced into England, and so might a caterpillar peculiar to Ferns in a Florida green- house. To resort once again to homely English, " pigs might fly, but they are very unlikely birds." Nor is Blueberry culture a likely Eng- lish experiment or worth considering. It re- quires a swamp with the American climate on top of it. These " Notes and Abstracts " are full of notices of American plants ungrowable here ; indeed, for years the Journal has been distended by a crowd of extracts which broadly and practically have no bearing on British horti- culture. And the self-same items, the. Blueberry, the San Jose Scale, the Colorado Beetle and the rest, recur with the certainty of a repeating decimal. I have just taken down from my shelves six volumes, at random, and in every one there is a paragraph on some disease or afflic- tion of the Sweet Potato. Mr. Chittenden writes gravely that these things are not meant to amuse me. They do not, but I laughed. G. H. Engle- heart. Little Clarendon, Dinton, Salisbury. A Selection of Apples. -The correspon- dents in the discussion on this subject assume that the United Kingdom comprises a little por- tion running from the Thames to Hampshire, where many Apples succeed which cannot be grown successfully either in the Northern Counties or in Scotland, and in some localities not even on walls. I remember a few yeaTS ago a keen Scottish pomologist, who went to reside when up in years in a villa with a large garden attached, showing me with great pleasure, as a rare thing, a few small fruits of Cox's Orange Pippin which had set on a wall tree with a south- ern exposure. Ribston Pippin and some other Apples, even James Grieve, have to receive similar treatment to secure reasonably good fruit in many parts of the country. In the garden here it is only on a sloping bank, on a gravel subsoil, and on grass, that we get our finest eat- ing Apples and the best keeping cookers. The difficulties attending Apple selection may be made clearer if I mention a circumstance that occurred recently. A lady staying here wished to have in her garden in Buckinghamshire a covered Apple walk similar to the long one at Tyninghame, the blossom to be equally valuable an asset as the fruit. She amused herself testing many varieties, and finally selected Ribston Pip- pin as the best flavoured, and as I could assure her that few varieties could compete with it in the beauty of its flowers, that variety she selected. But before ordering the trees I advised her to find out how the tree thrived — for here on the free stock it is absolutely healthy — at her home. On inquiry she found the tree was useless on account of canker, and it had to be set aside for another. How foolish it would be, however, not to grow it in places where it succeeds as it does here ! Dumelow's Seedling (Wellington) is quite a failure here on account of canker, and as a cooker and later keeper, though not a large Apple, nothing has beaten Northern Greening. It has to hang till November, when it eats like a Sweetmeat in late April. I should say, too, that Warner's King is not beaten by any Apple in its season. The tree, like Bramley's Seedling, always sets a good crop, but rarely so abundant as to need thinning, and it keeps a long time, well into February here. Then Mr. Gladstone is worthless here, while Irish Peach is one of the best, consistently a large cropper, and of good flavour. Immense quantities of late Apples must be greatly depreciated in quality owing to being picked long before they are ready. If one inquires why they are gathered and stored so soon the usual answer is because they were all falling. Some varieties undoubtedly are given to cast their fruits prematurely, but it may as often be the fault of the cultivator as of the Apple, and, anyhow, it is better to lose a portion in windfalls than to have the whole crop rendered of little worth bv picking the fruits be- fore they are ready. /?. P. Brotherston, Tyning- hame Gardens, East Lothian. War and Its Effect on Horticulture (see p. 403, Vol. LVL). — I was much interested in Mr. Beckett's remarks on this subject, and I am in complete accord with what he says. There are thousands of acres of land lying idle which could be turned to good account if landlords and tenants would work together. Short leases are not practicable for the man who intends to lay out money and work hard on the land. The selection of the right men to put on the land is a difficult problem, but a good start might be made if every working man had a garden, and those living in the country were encouraged to keep pigs or poultry. Some method should be found whereby the right man would be taught to grow the right crop in the right place at the right time. 0. H. Adams, Prestwiclc, Witley, Surrey. Brompton Stocks.— I am keenly interested in the cultivation of strong and healthy Bromp- ton Stocks in pots for greenhouse decoration. Although considered a strong, hardy plant, easy of cultivation, the Stock needs a great amount of attention to enable it to escape various pests and diseases, chief among these being mildew. A good remedy for this I find is dry flowers of sulphur, lightly blown over the foliage. The seeds are usually sown in 60-sized pots, filled with fine soil, placing three or four seeds in a pot. They are covered lightly and the pots are then placed as near the glass as possible ; the atmospheric temperature is kept between 45° and 50° until the seeds have germinated and the growths are 2 inches high. The plants are thinned out to one, or occasion- ally two, in each pot. They soon become ready for Tepotting in 48's, and these are placed thinly in a frame, which is ventilated with extreme care, the top and underneath ventilators being opened when the weather permits. On dull, damp days less air is admitted than usual, also a little heat is advisable in order to prevent mildew. The final repotting is into 32's, using light, fibrous turfy loam which has been stacked for twelve months, sweet leaf-mould, silver sand, lime rubble, soot and sifted farmyard manure, and mixing the ingredients thoroughly well together. Brompton Stocks treated thus should afford most satisfactory results. When moved to the greenhouse it is advisable to give the roots a little nitrate of soda and potash dissolved in water ; the former to encourage the foliage growth, the latter to swell the buds. Roland F. Lcgge, Bishopstoke. Horticultural and Other Allusions.— Since the war began we have had many allusions to nature and the seasons. Perhaps the most noted was that of the German Emperor, who said his men would be back in Germany "before the leaves fell from the trees" — pre- sumably with their work accomplished ! I do not think the Spectator horticultural allusions are happy. " The way in which the regiments, battalions, batteries and other units of the new army and of the Territorials have been develop- ing into efficient military units during the past four months can only be described as amazing." With that statement of the Spectator we shall all agree. What follows is funny : " To watch those units first pushing through the soil, as it were, then growing a stalk, then a bud, and then breaking into full flower, as quite a number of them have already done, is interesting and stimu- lating beyond description. . . . We have spoken of individual and isolated units, but any one who can spare the time to go to Aldershot or Salisbury, or any other of the great camps, may see not only the military Roses and Lilies of cavalry and artillery coming into flower, but what is quite as imposing a sight— the Crocuses, Violets and Primroses of the infantry bursting through the soil and blossoming almost before they have budded." The most charming of botanical allusions is found in a leader in the Times for January 13. It likens the middle-aged — to whom the fact of the ineligibility for war has suddenly revealed the fact that their youth is past — to the wild Clematis : consoling us with the reflection that, as in the autumn, in its bearded fruition, it becomes the Traveller's Joy, so may we who have come to the later middle years find if we will but seek for them manv ways of cheering and helping those who are of more immediate service to the country. W. C. SOCIETIES ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE. January 5. — Present: Mr. E. A. Bowles, M.A. (in the chair), Sir Everard im Thurn, Sir H. J. Veitch, Dr. Rendle, Dr. Voelcker, Messrs. J. Fraser, A. Worsley, W. Fawcett, R. H. Pear- son, E. M. Holmes and F. J. Chittenden (lion, sec), with Messrs. Langley Smith and Davis. Variegation in Pelargoniums. — Mr. A. Langley Smith showed a series of scented-leaved Pelargoniums with the following note of variegation in them : — " 1. Variegation is a heritable character in Scented-Leaved Pelargoniums. 2. It appears to behave as a recessive character. 3. It is probably due to the absence of a factor in whose presence the leaf is green. 4. This absence is sometimes due to the re- arrangement of unit characters under the influ- ence of hybridisation of species. 5. The variegation may be (i.) albinism; or (ii.) dark purplish-brown stripes along the chief veins. Examples exhibited : — (1) P. denticulatum x P. hTieifolium (seedlings F., generation) (Fx showed slight variegation simi- lar to set B). Varie- Not gated. variegated. Total. Set A ... 3 9 12 Set B ... 5 19 24 Set C ... 2 5 1 Totals 10 33 43 (2) Hybrids of P. citriodora minor, F, generation- fin which variegation first appeared). 3 (2 barren) 4 7 Fy generation (from variegated hybrid above). Set D ... 3 8 11 (3) Hybrids of P. cordatum, Yx generation. Set" E ... 1 3 4 (4) Hybrids of P. "Cataract" (= P. Radula x P. denticulatum) x P. denticulatum. Dark centre. Plain. Set F ... 4 5 9 Note also dark stripes in leaves of hybrid Pelargoniums "Patience" and "Felicity" (P. tomentosum x P. filicifolium) and P. tomentosum Smitbii (P. tomentosum x P. denticulatum). The variegation was as a rule but poorly- marked, and in many took the form of a very narrow, whitish line round the margin of the leaf. Colour in seeds of Amaryllis. — Mr. Worsley' showed some seeds of Amaryllis X Parkeri, some of which were reddish tinged, some without the red tint. He remarked that he had seen no true albino of Amaryllis Belladonna, but A. x Parkeri gave about 60 per cent, albino seeds on two occasions on which they were gathered. These seeds gave white-flowered plants. Effect, of light, etc., on Orchids. — Mr. Gurney Fowler sent a number of young Orchid plants to draw attention to the short, stout and sturdy new pseudo-bulbs formed since the plants were removed to their new quarters at Pembury, Kent, and away from the smoke area in which they were grown heretofore. Sir Edward im Thurn said the appearance of the plants reminded him of that shown by Cattleya superba when growing wild on the outer branches of trees where much light gained access to it. Mr. Fowler also sent a plant bearing flowers- on both an old and a new growth ; the flowers on the former opened about three days before those- on the latter. Albino seeds of Crinum Moor el. — Mr. Worsley said he had grown albino seeds of Crinum Moorei received from Australia last spring and had found the bulb formed to have reached a larger size than the seed, although he had been unable to detect the presence of any chlorophyll in the plants. The increased size was probably due to an increased amount of water. Mr. Chitten den said that the seed he took germinated, and the plant had now its second set of shoots, which were rather more weakly than the first. 36 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 16, 1915. Conifer growing under spray of waterfall. — Sir Everard im Thurn showed a specimen and photograph taken in -the Blue Mountains, Australia, of the Conifer Pherosphaera Fitz- geraldii growing in the spray of a waterfall, a remarkable situation for a plant of this family, but apparently normal for this species. Acrotriche fasciculiflora. — Dr. Rendle showed a dried specimen of a remarkable Epacrid, Acrotriche fasciculiflora Benth., which he had collected at the top of Mount Lofty in South Australia. It produces an enormous number of flowers in a great fascicle on the old wood just above the base of the stem, forming a covering 3 or 4 inches through. Myrtle fruiting. — Mr. C. D. Langworthy sent a shoot of the common Myrtle picked from the open and bearing a large number of ripe fruits. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID. December 17. — Committee present: Rev. J. Crombleholme (in the chair), Messrs. R. Ash- worth, J. Bamber, J. J. Bolton, J. C. Cowan, J. Cypher, J. Evans, A. Hanmer, J. Howes, A. J. Keeling, D. McLeod, C. Parker, W. Shackleton, Z. A. Ward, G. Weatherby and H. Arthur (secretary). 0. 0. Wrigley, Esq., Bury (gr. Mr. Rogers), staged a group of about 150 plants, for which a Gold Medal was awarded. Varieties of Cypri- pedium insigne were a feature, and the centre of the group was composed of Laelia anceps and L. Gouldiana, with Odontoglossums of the O. crispum section. R. Ashworth, Esq., Newchurch (gr. Mr. Gilden), was awarded a Large Silver Medal for a group of Odontoglossums, Cypripediums, Odontiodas, Calanthes, Laelia Gouldiana, Oncidium Forbesii, Brasso-Cattleya Leemanii and others. Z. A. Ward, Esq., Northenden (gr. Mr. Weatherby), was also awarded a Large Silver Medal for a group composed principally of Odontoglossums, Calanthes and Cypripediums. Wm. Thompson, Esq., Walton Grange (gr. Mr. Howes), and Col. J. Rutherford, MP. . Blackburn (gr. Mr. Lupton), were awarded Silver Medals, and Mrs. R. Le Doux, West Derby (gr. Mr. J. W. Fletcher), a Bronze Medal for groups. Messrs. A. J. Keeling and Sons, Bradford, were awarded a Large Silver Medal for a group, which included Cypripedium Actaeus var. Sybil, C. insigne Harefield Hall, C. Euryades splendens, C. Clinkaberryanum, Odontioda Diana, Cymbidium Alexanderi rubellum, Brasso-Cattleya Eileen, and Vanda coerulea. Messrs. Cypher and Sons, Cheltenham, and Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded Silver Medals respectively for groups AWARDS. First-Class Certificates. Cypripedium Vashtii (Adrastus Mariae X Leeanum gigantcum) and C. Idina Lee's var. (insigne Harefield Hall X Countess of Car- narvon). Both from W. R. Lee, Esq. Odontoglossum x Admiral Sturdee (parentage unknown). An almost round flower, the broad sepals and petals with violet colour extending over their whole surface. Shown by Messrs. J. and A. McBean. Awards of Merit. Odontoglossum crispum Dr. J. E. Helm, 0. eximium var. Zenith, Odontioda Brewii var. Rembrandt, and 0. Diana Ashlands var. All from R. Ashworth. Esq. Odontoglossum Lawre crispum (Lawrencei- anum x crispum), Cypripedium Actaeus Pala- tine (Leeanum giganteum x Harefield Hall), C. Alabaster " Walton Grange " var. (Alcibiades X Godscffranum), and Cattleya Leeda " Walton Grange " var. (aurea x Percivalliana). All from Wm. TnOMrsoN, Esq. Cypripedium Eboriacum Gratixae (nitens X Harefield Hall), and C. Bessie (aureum X An- tinous). Both shown by S. Gratrix, Esq. Odontoglossum X Esthwaite (parentage un- known). Shown by A. R. Handley, Esq. Cymbidium Alexanderi rubellum and Brasso- Cattleya Eileen (B.-C. Fourneri x C. labiata albens). Both shown by A. J. Keeling and Sons. Cypripedium Grand Dul-e. Shown by the Liverpool Orchid and Nursery Co. PERPETUAL FLOWERING CARNATION. The following varieties of Carnations have been registered recently by the above society : — Bishton Wonder, rosy-lilac seedling. Regi- stered by Messrs. Allwood Bros., Haywards Heath. Caprice, pale pink, flaked red, seedling. Raiser, Mr. C. H. Seely, Wingerworth Hall, Chester- field. Colleen, salmon-pink seedling. Raiser, Mr. C. Engelmann, Saffron Walden. Delice, clear pink Enchantress sport. Raiser, Mr. H. J. Dudney, South Road, Erith. General Joffre, scarlet sport from the variety Lady Northcliffe. Registered by Mr. Geo. Clarke, Leighton Buzzard. Grenadier, coral-red seedling. Raiser, Mr. J. Reed, gardener to the Countess of Derby, Cowarth Park, Sunningdale. Mme. Chas. Page, Apple-blossom pink seed- ling of the Perpetual-Malmaison type. Raisers, Messrs. R. Veitch and Son, Exeter. Nora West, salmon-pink seedling, A.M., De- cember 2, 1914. Raiser, Mr. Geo. West, Gables Nursery, Datchet. Wivelsfield White, white seedling. Raisers, Messrs. Allwood Bros. T. A. Weston, Hon. Secretary. GLASGOW AND WEST OF SCOTLAND HORTICULTURAL. This society has again arranged a series of meetings in addition to the autumn show, which will be held on September 1 and 2, and a visit to the gardens of Houston House on June 19. The syllabus of meetings is as follows : — Feb- ruary 10, "Exhibition Vegetables," Mr. C. Shaw, Boquhan Gardens, Kippen ; October 6, "The Use of Perennial Plants in the Embel- lishment of Present Day Gardens " ; December 1, "Alpine Plants," by Mr. S. Arnott, Sunny- mead, Dumfries. CoTrejpondentv ©bituar^. John Muir.— Our American contemporary Horticulture records the death of John Muir, the naturalist. Muir was born in Dunbar and went with his parents to America when he was eleven years old. He lived first at Wisconsin, attended the University there, and, having finished his course, began an eventful career of exploration. He lived for many years in Cali- fornia, and published two important works on The Mountains of California and Our National Parks. An ardent naturalist, he combined in a rare degree of knowledge with a love of nature. Robert Renton. — Mr. Robert Renton, Greenlaw, Berwickshire, who died recently, was a bryologist of wide reputation, as well as an antiquary, entomologist and numismatist of re- pute. He began the study of Mosses when well advanced in life and, in order to study them the more thoroughly, acquired a knowledge of Latin, and classified and arranged his collection, which was virtually complete as regards British species, sub-species and varieties. Mr. Renton was 75 years of age at the time of his death. Jules Hye de Crom.— We regret to an- nounce the death of this well-known Belgian amateur orchidist, which took place on the night of Wednesday, January 6. His demise was unexpected, for although past middle age Monsieur Jules Hye de Crom was an exceedingly robust man. For many years at his residence, Coupure, Ghent, he culti- vated Orchids on a large scale, specialising in Cypripediums, Odontoglossums, Odon- tiodas and others. Of late years Miltonia vexil- laria and its hybrids were great favourites, and his group of those plants, chiefly M. Hyeana, staged at the last Ghent Quinquennial Exhibi- tion in April, 1913. and later at the summer show on the same site on August 9-17, will long be remembered by those who saw it. He was a frequent visitor and exhibitor in England and at the International Horticultural Exhibition luncheon at Chelsea responded to the toast of " The Continental Visitors." The cultivation of Orchids was his great hobby. Binding the " Gardeners' Chronicle " : Mid- land. We are informed by our publishing de- partment that they can bind for you the volumes of the Gardeners' Chronicle at the price of 5s. 6d. each half-yearly volume. They can also supply, if necessary, any back number you require from 1910 onwards at the ordinary price (3d. per number). Carriage would be extra. Failure with Lllium longiflorum : Formosum. Failure in the forcing of Lilium longiflorum formosum is not uncommon at this time of year, and is usually the result partly of a stagnant atmosphere owing to the short, damp days and long nights, and also in part to the lack of vigour in insufficiently ripened bulbs, rather than to any direct fault in cultivation. We have seen it especially in bulbs that are split into two or three crowns. You use an excel- lent compost, though we should not recommend the use of Coco-nut fibre, and your system of cultivation appears good. We have no doubt that as the days lengthen and you come to the Takesima and later ripened bulbs you will have better results. There should be no need to disbud at all. All the buds should de- velop perfectly. Names of Plants : C. J. W. Lantana Sellowiana variety. — D. D. S. Fruits of Iris foetidissima. Richardia (Arum) Failing to Expand : W. W. The cultural treatment has been at fault, but what the error has been only those who aT© on the spot can determine. The specimen is perfectly healthy. We would advise a more generous treatment, but you would do well not to hasten the plants too much at the start, although when they are growing freely both heat and moisture should be employed liberally. Leaves of Beech Persistent : E. J. L. J. The persistence in winter of the leaves of the Beech (and Oak and Hornbeam) is due to the fact that the Beech has abandoned, or perhaps never possessed, the habit, common to most deciduous trees, of throwing off its leaves as the result of an annual autumnal surgical opera- tion. The fall of the leaf of such a tree js Lime or Sycamore is due to a series of events, of which the chief are : (1) The formation in the leaf-stalk of an " absciss layer," that is, a tissue the innermost layer of which becomes corky ; (2) the blocking of the vessels (wood) in the leaf-stalks with gummy substances. As a result, no water can pass along the petiole, for the vessels are blocked and the cork layer prevents water from passing from the living cells on the stem-side of the leaf-stalk to those on the other side of the corky layer ; (3) just beyond the cork the absciss layer con- sists of thin cells, which become dry. Their walls break. The whole leaf becomes dry &r\A brittle, the wood vessels break, and the leaf falls. But in the Beech the absciss layer does not form, hence the leaf is not actually cast off, but falls as a result of withering conse- quent upon exposure to winter weather. The rate of withering is determined by degree of exposure, and hence it is understandable why an exposed Beech tree may lose its leaves earlier than a Beech hedge, in which the leaves have a greater amount of protection, if only because the force of the wind, and its drying effect, increases in proportion to the height of the tree. Soil for Examination : R. W. We do not undertake the analysis of soils. Both samples of loam appear to be suitable for the purposes you mention. No. 1 is a good loam of a light, brown colour, with plenty of fibrous matter or humus denoting that it contains a rich source of nitrogenous material. No. 2 is a little heavier in texture, but is also a good sample. We do not recognise the powder. Communications ^Received. — O, M.— T. c— H. N. _p. g. B.— Gardener, Herts— F. H.— E. A.— W. Easlea— R. D. G.— C. H. P.— A. G.— G. M. T.— G. B ^T. W.— B. C— O. K— F. W.— W. I— R. P. B— .1. R. J — G. M. T.— J. S. D.— W. F. R.^J. A. C. (next week)— Rose Seed (next week). jANUAEr 23, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 37 THE (Baxbmtxz €\}toniik No. 1,465.— SATURDAY, JANUARY S3, 1915. CONTENTS. Apples, Russian Apples, a selection of . . Austrian Briars, hybrid Bamboo, periodical flowering of the Benevolent Institution, Gardeners' Royal Christmas Roses, the forcing of .. . . 4fl Dahlias, Star .. ..42 Fruit register — Apple BlenheimPippin 40 Apple The HoubloD . . 40 Fruit tree, the parts of a 47 Grass, the greenness of, in flooded areas . . 44 Larch canker . . . . 43 Law note- Small landholders and market gardening . . Market fruit garden, the McLeod, Mr. J. F. Obituary - Baillie, James Hutchings, Henry Nisbet, Dr. John Orchid notes and glean- ings— Bulbophjilums 49 Hybrid Orchids W i n t e r - fl o w e r i n g Cypripediums Ornithogalum laeteum.. Pernetian Rose, the Potash, sources of "Pour nos amis fram,ais et beiges" Rainfall in 1914 .. Royal Horticultural Society's Journal Scotland, flower shows in Sherwood, Mr. N. N. Societies — Glasgow Fruit Trade Benevolent .. Manchester and North of England Orchid . . National Dahlia Royal Horticultural . . Scottish Hort United Hort. Benefit and Provident Windsor, Eton and District Rose War items Week's work, the 40, Wheat, home-growu . . ILLUSTRATIONS. Bulbophyllum appemlieulatum, 3S ; B. Binnendijkii, 3S, 39 ; B. mirum 39 Dahlias Worth Star, Crawley Star, and Lowfleld Star. (Coloured Supplement) ; Wnite Star 43 Odontioda Latona 4S THE HYBRID AUSTRIAN BRIARS, THE influence of Persian Yellow and of some Roses of an allied character is destined to be a great one in the history of Rose- breeding. During the present season several writers have declared that the Council of the National Rose Society has decided to name the new class, which owes its origin to Persian Yel- low, in honour of M. Pernet-Ducher, of Lyons, and that this class should now be known as l-fosa Pernetiana. The National Rose Society has come to no such decision, and the official name of the class remains at present Hybrid Austrian Briars. The name "Rosa Pernetiana" cannot, for bota- nical reasons, commend itself to any horticul- turist, as it is an obvious inaccuracy. If the French rosarian was to be honoured in connec- tion with this new class, theTe could have been no objection, so far as botanical accuracy goes, to the name of " Pernet Roses." Rosa Pernet- iana, the common name of the class, is wrong. This new class is generally considered to have originated in the closing years of the nineteenth century, although there is evidence that some were making crosses of this nature considerably earlier. The potentialities of the Yellow Briars had long been apparent to at least one of our noted British raisers, and their value as parents from the colour standpoint was thoroughly understood. It was clear, however, to some ex- perimenters that, while there was an undoubted gain so far as colour was concerned and a step forward had been made in the way of add- ing new tints to our garden Roses, yet there was another serious drawback. The union of Persian Yellow with our cultivated Roses was very successful in transmitting much of the colour of the former to their progeny ; but this union was also responsible for the transmission of black spot to many of the seedlings. Many of the Yellow Briars, notably Persian Yellow, are ex- tremely susceptible to black spot, and seedlings derived from those Briars, in conjunction with other Roses, are unfortunately highly impres- sionable to attacks of this disease. This undesir- able character, founded on the union of the Yel- low Briars with other Roses, may have influenced some breeders to deal very cautiously with their seedlings. Two Continental workers must have begun to experiment with Persian Yellow about the same time. Soleil d'Or, generally accepted as the first Hybrid Austrian Briar, was sent out by Pernet-Ducher, of Lyons, in 1900. The parent- age of this variety is not a complex one, the seedling named Soleil d'Or being simply the result of a first cross between Persian Yellow and Antoine Ducher. Two years later, in 1902, Gottfried Keller, raised by Dr. Miiller, was placed in commerce, and it is certain that the upbuilding of this variety must have taken con- siderably longer than that of Soleil d'Or. The parentage of Dr. Muller's variety is declared to be (Madame Berard x Persian Yellow) x (Pierre Notting x Madame Berard) x Persian Yellow. Should this be accurate, and there is no reason to doubt it, it must necessarily have in- volved several years of work in order to breed Gottfried Keller. It would seem, so far as Con- tinental effort is concerned, that the work of Pernet-Ducher and Miiller in the breeding of Hybrid Austrian Briars must be almost contem- poraneous, and it looks as if the initiative in this work lay with the latter esteemed botanist and hybridist. With these two Roses before us we have the beginning of the class now officially named Hybrid Austrian Briars, and so far as it is pos- sible to judge the influence of Soleil d'Or re- mains supreme. This influence can be noted in two ways — firstly, in colour, and secondly, in the transmission of the character of high suscep- tibility to attacks of black spot, to which some seedlings owing their origin to Soleil d'Or are liable. To the student of genetics there are some interesting features in the characters of some of the varieties comprising this new class of Roses. Many of the sorts are notable for their smooth, glistening foliage, highly resistant, if not wholly immune to mildew. Other varieties are highly susceptible to mildew. Others, again, as already noted, are very prone to black spot. The parent- ages, which I shall try to give as far as they are known to me, of the varieties known as Hybrid Austrian Briars are interesting in respect of the incidence of the attacks of the above diseases. After Soleil d'Or and Gottfried Keller progress in the raising of reliable and attractive Hybrid Austrian Ross6 was comparatively slow. We are indebted to Dr. Miiller for the next new variety of any consequence, Les Rosati, sent out in 1907. This Rose is derived from Persian Yellow x a seedling hybrid Tea. Les Rosati has flowers of a very pleasing colour, although they are somewhat unshapely. The blossoms are of a medium size, fairly full and fragrant, and the colour is a deep carmine with the base of the petals stained with rich yellow. It is a free- flowering Rose of a vigorous character of growth, and I am seldom troubled with black soot upon the plants, although they occasionally contract mildew. The next addition to the class is the most im- portant one. This was Lyon Rose, sent out by Pernet-Ducher in 1908. This variety is so well known that it requires but little description, and as a parent it has now a large influence upon many varieties of recent origin now classed as hybrid TeaG. I cannot give the parentage of Lyon Rose, but it is unquestionably descended from Soleil d'Or, and, like its parent, it is ex- tremely susceptible to black spot. Entente Cordiale (Guillot, 1908) was the next important addition. This is a seedling from Caroline Testout x Soleil d'Or, and I have discarded it as worthless, for the plants Tarely failed to provide me with an outbreak of black spot. In addition to the above fault the flowers are very loose, and a lot of disbudding requires to be done in order to obtain passable blossoms. The colour, a cherry Ted flushed with yellow, is attractive and distinct. Veluvezoom (Baron Van Pallandt, 1908) has the same parentage as Entente Cordiale. The flowers are a vivid deep rose, but the colour is not sufficiently distinct, nor of sufficient merit to warrant its retention in a collection of Roses. I found the plants to be free from black spot and mildew. A. R. Goodwin (Pernet-Ducher, 1909) is said to be from an unnamed seedling x Soleil d'Or. While it has the imbricated flowers common to this class, it has 'the merit of being a free-flower- ing decorative variety of a most distinct colour. It is good both in summer and autumn, and the colour is a rich orange-red, shading off to salmon- pink as the. flowers expand. This is a grand Rose for the garden, and seems to resist mildew and black spot. Lorns Barrier (Barbier, 1909) is a seedling from Madame Berard x Austrian Copper. The flowers are semi-double, and a coppery-red colour with the outside of the petals flushed with deep yellow. It is a semi-climber and has not become popular. I have never seen black spot on the plants, but have noted an occasional attack of mildew. Madame Rdau (Gravereaux, 1909) is descended from Pharisaer X Les Rosati, and is one of the best Roses in this class. Although it is a splen- did Rose for garden decoration it is really beau- tiful under glass. I call the colour a soft rose suffused with eld gold. The flowers have nice long buds which open to somewhat cupped blos- soms. It deserves to be better known. I have never seen black spot upon the plants, but they are sometimes troubled with mildew. Soleil d'Anoers (Dietriche, 1909) is a 6port from Soleil d'Or. It is not as fine as Juliet and is very liable to severe attacks of black spot. Deutschxand (Kiese, 1910) is from Fran Karl Druschki x Soleil d'Or. It has full, golden- yellow flowers, but practically impossible to grow owing to bad attacks of black spot. Johannisfecer (Tiirke, 1910) is almost like a vigorous hybrid perpetual in character. It has golden-yellow flowers edged with fiery red, and has never become popular. It is not a free- flowering Rose, but seems resistant to black spot. It is a seedling from Princess de Beam x Aus- trian Copper. Juliet (Paul, 1910) needs no description. It i6 from Captain Hayward x Soleil d'Or. A very vigorous grower, free from black spot but occasionally touched with mildew. This variety seems to give best results when pegged down. Raton d'Or (Pernet-Ducher, 1910) is notable for its fine colour, and is said to be the richest yellow hardy Rose we possess. Some growers can manage this Rose. I cannot, and have discarded it. I find it a poor, miserable grower and alwayG badly infested with black spot. I think there is no room for Rayon d'Or when we have the H.T. Duchess of Wellington. I am probably the first to express this opinion, but I am convinced that I am right. Rayon d'Or was raised from Madame Melanie Soupert x Soleil d'Or. Beaute de Lyon (Pernet-Ducher, 1910) is, when properly grown, a most attractive Rose. The colour is superb, a deep coral-red richly 38 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 25. 1915. suffused with yellow. The flowere are globular — a common fault ill this section — but they always command attention. It is not a free-flowering Rose, but treated like Juliet this fault is over- come. A vigorous grower and highly resistant to all diseases. The progeny of unnamed varie- ties crossed with SoleiJ d'Or is the statement of 'the raiser in regard to its parentage. Viscountess Enfield (Pernet-Ducher, 1910) is pended from the roof-rafters. Bulbophyllum appendiculatum (fig. 10) belongs to the section in which the majority of the plants have the flowers arranged in umbels. This species is a native of the Sikkim Himalaya, and has soli- tary flowers which are cream-white marked with ruby-red. The section to which it belongs is ». small one, the only near approach being B. Fas- cinator, but it gives a very good indication of 'not wanted. It is a victim to mildew and is not sufficiently distinct from other Roses in com- merce. I would call it a poor hybrid Tea of a washed-out shade of pink. Said to be bred from a (seedling from Soleil d'Or. Louise C. Breslau (Pernet-Ducher, 1912), also descended from Soleil d'Or, is so similar to Arthur R. Goodwin that it is not required. The above varieties are those which I have grown long enough to be able to offer definite criticism in regard to them. During last year, and also this season, several new varieties were introduced by different raisers, and there is every probability that some of the sort6 will become acquisitions. It -seems probable that this new class will ultimately be merged with the Hybrid Teas. It is in colour that an advance has been made. George M. Taylor. MTLNDICULATUM. the untenability of Cirrhopetalum strictly as a genus, for in the development of a fringe in some of the segments and other features it shows the same characters as Bulbophyllum mirum (see fig. 13) and other species, both with umbellate and solitary flowers. The whole genus is remark- able for variety of form and colour, the re- semblance of many of the flowers to tropical in- WINTER-FLOYVERIXG CYPRIPEDIUMS. Such Cypripediums as G. insigne and allied hybrids which have passed out of flower are now ready for re-potting if required. Some specimen plants do not require annual re-pctting ; this de- pends upon the condition and vigour of the plants. In the case of G. insigne, diminution of vigour often becomes apparent at about this time, most frequently in plants the roots of which have become matted. It is necessary to break the plant into smaller pieces, cut away useless growths a year or more old, and pot as a specimen, retaining only the leading portions. The old growths which have been removed can be transferred to 6mall pots and will produce new growths in the spring. Old growths are often permitted to remain at the time of re-potting, but this is a mistake, as they depend for their sustenance on the more active portions and tend to reduce the vigour of the whole plant. The pots used should be filled to about one-third of their depth with clean broken crocks. The potting compost should be graded according to the size of the specimen, using coarser material for large plants. Good fibrous, turfy loam should form two parts of the com- post, mixed with one part fibrous peat or finely-chopped Osmunda fibre, and sufficient sand and broken crock or charcoal to render it porous. This should be made firm about the roots and base of the plants. In the neighbourhood of large towns and smoky manufacturing districts where there is a considerable obstruction of light for a good portion of the year the most suitable compost will be about one-third loam and two- thirds of peat or Osmunda fibre, mixed with Sphagnum-moss, but care must be taken to pot more firmly where less loam is used. After re- potting, water the plants with lukewarm rain- water, using a moderately fine-Tose car.. Keep the house rather close and a fairly moist atmo- ORCHID NOTES AND CLEANINGS. BULBOPHYLLUMS. Sir Frank C'Risr, Bart., Friar Park, Henley- on-Thames (gr. Mr. P. Knowles), has obligingly •furnished us with the illustrations of Bulbophyl- lum Binnendijkii, and B. (Cirrhopetalum) appen- diculatum, which are reproduced in figs. 10, 11, and 12. The flowers of these Orchids are wonder- fully interesting, and the two species represent extreme forms of the genus. Friar Park Gar- dens contain many extensive collections of dis- tinct plants, and such botanically interesting Or- chids as the Bulbophyllums are well represented. Bulbophyllum Binnendijkii (fig. 12), known as 'the Pagoda Orchid on account of the resem- blance of the arrangement of its upper sepals to the cap of an Eastern pagoda, belongs to a sec- tion which includes B. virescens and B. Erics- sonii, which is a close ally of B. Binnendijkii but with distinct differences, although the colour of both is pale green with purple markings. The plants of this section, and also those of similar growth but with fewer flowers, including B. Reinwardtii and B. galbinum, are natives it New Guinea, Java, and the Malay Archipelago. They therefore require a warm, moist house, and an abundance of water during the growing season. Being evergreen they must not be dried off at any time, even after growth is com- rpleted. The plants grow best in baskets sus- INFLORESCENCE of bulbophyllum binxesdijkii. sects being a never-failing source of pleasure to those who care to devote a shelf or corner in the intermediate house to their culture. The species are easy to cultivate, but as the genus contains both deciduous as well as evergreen species, the plants of the former class should be keep cool and dry at the roots to ensure a Test after the leaves fade. sphere about the plants. The potting compost should not be allowed to remain dry too long, but may become fairly dry between each water- ing. Seedlings belonging to the section under notice will now be in their most active stage of growth, and as new roots are being produced they may need re-potting. Young plants should be placed within reasonable distance of the roof- January 23, 1915 ] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 39 i;lass, to prevent drawing and weakening of the foliage. The cultivator should treat the plants liberally in the matter of soil, but without over- potting, for iE the roots become starved or pot- THE MARKET FRUIT GARDEN. Fig. 12. — bulbophylluji binxexdijkii. showing HABIT. (See p. 38.) bound the constitution of the plant will be affected. The result of this loss of vigour will be seen in the retarding of the plants flowering. 3. ripedium Aisne Cypripedium Arras .. Cypripedium Astnrte Cypripedium Capitaiue Boujiuerean Cypripedium Cavalier Cypripedium Dixmude Cypripedium Cypripedium Cypripedium Cypripedium Cypripedium Cypripedii Ion Highlander .. Kelleyi Marrie .. Monte .. Nieupnrt nito-Cynthia .. Cypripedium Priory Beauty.. Cypripedium Pyriha .. Cypripedium Rheims Cypripedium Ruby Queen Cypripedium Ypres Laelio-Cattleya Atina I^aclio-Cattleya Attica Laelio-Cattleya Belgiea 1. H li.ii attleya Chamberlainiaim .. Laelio-Cattleya Enrvalus Laelio-Cattleya General AJlenby .. Laelio-Cattleya Ithaca var. Raphael Laelio-Cattleya Miss Dorothy Bushel 1 Laelio-Cattleya Nysiata Laelio-Cattleya primulina .. Laelio-Cattleya purpurascens Laelio-Cattleya Queen Elizabeth .. Laelio-Cattleya Rhenus Laelio-Cattleya Koyai Crimson Laelio-Cattleya Sir Douglas Haig .. Laelio-Cattleya Uranus Laelio -Cattleya Vulcanus .. Odontioda Verdum Odontoglossum Albion Rickards' var. Odontogloasum Glycon Odontoglossum Hannibal . . < »'liuitii'_'lns.sum uacvi'i >ss Odontogloasum Roma (MontOKlossuni Ypres Odontoglossum Zygim Suphro-Cattleya Annette Parentage. B.-C. heatonensis x C. Hardyana B.-C. Mrs. J. Leemann x C. Hardyana B.-C. Pluto x C. Dowiana aurea B.-C. Madame Chas. Maron x C. Mantinii B.-C. Mrs. J. Leemann x C. GaskelHana alba B. Digbyana x L. xauthina Maggie Raphael alba x Dowiana aurea Percivaliana x bicolor Octave Doin x Trianae Ella x Iabiata Lueddemanniana Stanleyi x Sehruderae Peetersii x Dowiana aurea Miss Williams x Dowiana aurea White! x Enid granditliirum x eburneo-Lowianum Leeanum x Mrs. W. Mostyn Mrs. F. Sander x Leeanum Psyche x insigne Sanderae glaueophylluni x Amandinae (? Macfarlauei) Hera Euryades x Earl of Tankerville Leeanum -. Thalia Dreadnought < fulshawense gigas magnificum x Fairrieanuui? Beryl x Alcibiades .. nilens x Fainieanuni Hera Euryades x Vandyke nitens x Cynthia . . aureum x Antinous.. Cbamberlainianum x Druryi Vandyke x Mrs. Win. Mostyn Calypso x Beryl Moonbeam x Leeanum Prospero L.-C. Lusitania x C. Dowiana aurea L.-C. Dumati x C. Dowiana aurea L.-C. Henry Greenwood x L.-C. Aphrodite .. Amelia x elegans Turneri L.-C. Canhamiana Ilex x C. Warneri alba L.-C. Lucasiana x C. Fabia L.-C. Haroldiana x C. F. W. Wigan .. L.-C. Bryan x C. Dowiana aurea L.-C. Nysa >: C. Iabiata C. fulvescens x L.-C. Hon. Mrs. Astor . . L.-C. Purple Emperor x C. Lord Rothschild . . L.-C. Gottoiana x C. Carmen L.-C. Geo. Woodhams x C. Dowiana aurea .. L.-C. Dominiana langleyensis x C. Hardyana L.-C. Hy. Greenwood x C. Octave Doin L.-C. Geo. Woodhams x C. Gaskelliana L.-C. Lucasiana x C. Trianae Odm. harvengtense x C. Noezb'ana Rossii x percultum . . luteo-purpureum x percultum hellemense x Lamheauianum naevium x Rossii criapo-Harryanum x Ossulstonii ardentissimum x excelleus Andersoniannm x Kegelj'ani s. grandiflbra x C. granulosa Exhibitor. Stuart Low and Co. Sander and Sons. The Dnkeof Marlborough. F. J. Hanbury, Esq. R. Ashworth, Esq. W. H. St. Quintin, Esq. "W. H. St. Quintin, Esq. Armstrong and Brown. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. .r. Gurney Fowler, Esq. R. G. Thwaites, Esq. Armstrong and Brown. C. J. Phillips, Esq. Flory and Black. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. W. H. St. Quintin, Esq. M. J. Ginot, St. Etienne, France. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. R. W. Rickards, Esq. Sander and Sons. Armstrong and Brown. Sander and Sons. R. W. Rickards, Esq. R. W. Rickards. Esq. Armstrong ami Brown. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. Sander and Sons. Armstrong and Brown. Armstrong ami Brown. Sander and Sons. Austen Chamberlain, Esq. W. H.St. Quintin, Esq. Sander and Sons. Stuart Low and Co. F. .1. Hanbury, Esq. W. H. St. Quintin, Esq. Sander and Suns. Armstrong and Brown. Flory and Black. Armstrong and Brown. J. Gurney Fowler, Bag,. Sander and Sons. Stuart Low and Co. Stuart Low and Co. Armstrong and Brown. R. W. RickardB, Esq. De B. Crawshay, Esq. De B. Crawshay, Esq. Armstrong and Brown. De B. Crawshay, Esq. Sander and Sons. De B. Crawshay. Esq. H. S. GoodBon, Esq. effect that I have ever seen, and my conclusion was formed long before I read it. Year after year I have cut off thousands of cankered shoots and fruit spurs from Cox's Orange trees, while trees of King of the Pippins and Potts's Seedling had canker bursting out on young shoots all over them until they were dug up. Gascoyne's Scar- let shows the same symptoms, only less viru- lently, in one plantation, though quite healthy in another. The reason why fruit spurs above wounds of canker are particularly liable to destruction by the disease may be that their joints with the branches out of which they proceed afford greater facilities for outbursts than smooth and unjointed portions of shoots offer. If, as seems to me certain, the mycelium of canker ascends with the sap, the vast import- ance of thoroughly excoriating and dressing every spot of the disease as soon as it is noticeable is obvious. Apples Spotting in Fruit Room. Some varieties of Apples became in part more o? less covered with small rot spots after being stored for some time in my fruit room. Aldington Pippin was most extensively affected in the course of storage, Cox and Bramley being spotted to a much smaller extent. Two mycologists have had specimens sent to them, and neither can state decidedly the cause of the damage. One says that he found no fungus, and the other expressed the opinion that the fruit had been punctured by some insect, and that then a semi- parasite, such as cladosporium, had slowly in- vaded the exposed flesh of the Apple. The former also thinks that the original damage was done by an insect. Now, I have never heard or read of any insect which punctures an Apple all over with holes invisible to the naked eye. If there be one it also must be invisible without the use of a microscope, as the Apples were all selected for soundness before being placed in the fruit room. The only insect found was a tiny caterpillar, several of which were noticed inside or outside very small webs at the stalk or eye end of an Apple. These gnawed small patches of the skin off a few fruits, but Fig. 13. — bulbophyllum mirum : flowers whitish, spotted WITH CHOCOLATE-PURFLE. (See p. 38.) did not cause any rot to set before the Apples were sold. By the way, efforts to obtain the identity of these tiny caterpillars have failed. The entomologist consulted had never seen them before, and they were quite new to me and to my foreman. But to return to the rot-spotted fruit, the piercing of an Apple in fifty to a hun- dred places is work which has never been at- tributed to any insect. Possibly a bacterium may be accountable for the injuries which cauM-d rot to set in. This; however, is a mere conjec- ture. 40 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JANUARY 23, 1915. Hidden Bittek Pit. Another injury which appears to have de- veloped in my fruit room is bitter pit, which was found in a few fruits of Cox's Orange Pippin when they were packed for market. The extent of the injury cannot be estimated, as in nearly every case detected the skin was quite smooth externally, and it was only when an affected Apple was pared that the damage was found in the form of brown specks of decayed tissue. Such hidden damage is very annoying, because buyers of expensive Apples must feel badly " sold '' when they discover it. The best con- solation is that only among a few of the Apples kept for home consumption, which were not the best specimens, was the injury detected. If the injury started in the fruit chamber, it is pro- bably attributable to sudden changes of tempera- ture ; but it is more likely that it started in the open air, and only developed in the chamber. Southern Grower. FRUIT REGISTER. APPLE THE HOUBLON. I consider this variety of Apple one of the best raised by Mr. Ross ; the fruits are not so large as those of Charles Ross, in which variety the size is a fault. The Houblon has, per- haps, more of the flavour of Cox's Orange Pippin than any of the group, and the flesh has a deeper orange colour. The fruit keeps longer in a fresh condition than Charles Ross. On December 30 I ate a fruit of the Houblon which was excellent in every respect, including size, colour, freshness and flavour, with that crisp- ness so common in a well-preserved fruit of Cox's Orange Pippin. There is one fault, however, I would wish to point out — viz., the liability of the tree to canker. I know of no variety more susceptible to this disease in our stiff soil, but the trouble (may, I think, be obviated with a little care. The stations for planting should be trenched fully 3 feet deep to ensure perfect drainage, and the tree should be planted on the surface in a light compost containing roadside grit, old potting soil and decayed vegetable refuse. The moment any sign of canker is detected the affected portion should be cut out and the wounds painted with gas- tar. APPLE BLENHEIM PIPPIN. Perhaps more has been written about this Apple than any other variety, and still the majority of planters object ito grow it on account of its shy cropping during the early stages of growth. Perhaps no Apple realises lower prices than this old favourite as compared with many inferior sorts. The late Dr. Hogg, in the Fruit Manual, describes the best method of inducing it to fruit early by grafting on the Paradise stock. At one time I seldom recommended it to planters purely on account of its shy bearing. Those who object to sugar with cooked Apples have in this variety one to their liking, as sugar is not necessary, the fruit being sweet in itself. There are two types of Blenheim Pippin in existence. One is less high in the fruit and deeper in its colouring, and I think more free in bearing. This variation is very pronounced in trees of large size at Aldenham House Gardens. As a cottager's Apple, grown as a standard nothing could be better, for the tree fruits well without pruning, an operation often neglected by this type of cultivator. Close pruning the trees is apt to check fruiting, but plenty of space for" the branches with little interruption is required for trees grafted on the Crab stock. Some twelve years since I grafted many stocks of Ecklinville Seedling with Blenheim Pippin, and they bear annual crops of good fruit, as consistency in cropping is a characteristic of Ecklinville. Four years since I grafted dwarf trees of Benoni with Blenheim Pippin (Alden- ham variety). From these trees I have gathered full crops of highly-coloured fruit in the past two seasons. E. Moh/neux. The Week's Work. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate. Gardener to the Marquis of LINLITHGOW, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Peach Trees in Borders.— The disbud- ding of early Peach trees growing in borders is an important operation, and should be undertaken only by a person who has a clear idea of the object aimed at, for, when carried out success- fully, very little pruning will be necessary in winter. The first consideration is to leave a shoot at the base of the bearing wood on the upper side, with other new shoots so placed that the tree may be furnished with fruiting wood over all the surface. Afford more water to the borders, and examine them at least once a fort- night, for watering. elons.— Melons raised from seeds sown in small pots at the beginning of the year may be shifted into larger pots, taking care that the plants do not receive a check from this operation. If the bed has been prepared in readiness, it will be preferable to plant out straight away. Where this has not been done, prepare the bed at once and, as soon as the soil is warmed sufficiently, set the plants in it. The soil for the bed should be of a rather heavy nature, and should be mixed with lime rubble and a sprinkling of soot, but manure, of any kind, should be withheld until the fruits have set. Maintain a minimum tem- perature of from 65° to 70°, and damp the walls and paths several times daily to keep the atmo- sphere moist. Little or no water will be re- quired at the roots for at least a fortnight after planting, and, for a time, the syringe should be used rather sparingly, particularly on cold, sunless days. Vinery.— Inside vine borders should receive an annual top-dressing, and it is advisable to complete the work before growth commences. Where the roots are found to be some distance below the surface, remove the soil down to the roots and replace it with 3 inches of turfy loam and some fresh stable manure, to which has been added a quantity of steamed bone meal. After one good watering apply a surface dressing of fermenting materials. If the roots are near the surface of the border only remove the loose soil, and add a top-dressing as advised, but it is im- portant that the layer applied at one time should not exceed 2 or 3 inches. Guano, sulphate of ammonia, and potash should only be applied with extreme caution, and by persons having a knowledge of what is deficient in the soil. Cherries.— Trees in pots that are intended to provide an early supply of Cherries should be placed in the orchard house ; but as Cherries re- sent hard forcing at the start, a temperature of from 40° to 45° during the day will be sufficient. Increase the temperature gradually as the trees flower, and admit air freely on all favourable occasions. Syringe the trees overhead on fine days and afford sufficient moisture at the roots. As a preventive of attacks from green and black fly, it is well to fumigate the house just before the flower-buds open. arrangement of wall trees applies equally to all situations or localities, the local conditions must be considered first when planting the trees, but, as a rule, Apples, Morello and May Duke Cherries, with any of the late-blooming varieties of Plums, may be planted in an easterly aspect ; Pears, Apples, Cherries and Plums may face west ; and the choicer early kinds of Pears, Plums, Peaches, Nectarines, Figs, Vines and Apricots should be given a south aspect. On north walls, where the subsoil is of a porous nature, plant Czar, Mallard, Magnum Bonum and Victoria Plums, also Morello Cherries. Where there is a great extent of walls, it is advisable to plant trees of the same varieties in different aspects, such as one or two trees of May Duke Cherry against a south wall to furnish early fruits ; others either facing east or west ; and, lastly, against a north wall to extend the season. The choicer varieties of dessert Gooseberries may be grown similarly. Where space permits always plant trees that bloom early on the same wall, for then it is an easy matter to afford the trees protection during frosty weather, whereas, if early and late flower- ing sorts are mixed together, the late trees may be covered before it is necessary and their blooming hastened in consequence. In gardens in southern and warm districts this advice is not so important ; therefore a knowledge of the climate, soil, and situation must be a guide as to the method to be adopted. Pruning. —In the pruning and training of young trees, take particular care to lay a good foundation for a supply of suitable wood in future years. When this is neglected, it is only with great difficulty and loss of time that the tree can be brought into a proper condition, especially in the case of the PeaOh or Nectarine. Never retain more shoots than are required, and regulate these according to their strength and position. In dealing with older trees it is occasionally found expedient to entirely remove a large branch in order to make room for young wood. When this becomes necessary, careful attention is required lest more harm than good be done. The Peach, Nectarine, Apri- cot and Cherry are more susceptible of in- jury from this operation than any other kind of tree, and whenever a large limb is removed the wound should be dressed immediately with a styptic to prevent gumming. In any of the other sorts of fruit trees, such as Apples, Pears and Plums, a branch or two may be removed without much harm resulting. Should there be a strong lateral shoot at the base, prune with a view to this taking the place of the one removed ; this is especially necessary in stone fruits, but other kinds will generally produce a new shoot although nothing but a stump may be left. If, in the case of stone fruits, there is not such a lateral shoot, it is far better to entirely remove the branch than to leave a bare stump, which almost always dies after- wards. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild). Buck- inghamshire. Planting Wall Trees. -The aspect for the different kinds of fruit trees should be varied according to the climate of the district. In some situations the tree may require a south aspect, whilst in others it would do equally well on walls facing east or west. Never plant tender fruit trees, such as Peaches and Nectarines, in cold, exposed situations or in aspects that are not exposed fully to the sun's influence, for, although the soil may be suitable, the tree will not be productive. In exposed gardens never plant trees that bloom early in the spring in an east aspect, as the blossoms will be liable to injury by frost and cold winds. As no one THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Potatos. — Tubers intended for planting in warm borders should be selected with as little delay as possible and placed in trays or shallow boxes so that short-jointed sprouts may be pro- duced. Keep them in a cool, well-ventilated place to prevent the young growths from be- coming drawn. Potatos in heated pits should be ventilated freely as soon as growth appears above the surface. Make further plantations. The sets for the purpose having been prepared in shallow boxes require very careful handling, or some of the shoots may be broken. Cover the tubers lightly with a compost of sandy loam and leaf-mould, and, as growth advances, draw some of the soil up to the plants, or, if space is limited, place additional soil amongst them, with a view to covering the young tubers sufficiently to protect them from the light. When growth is advanced sufficiently water the roots freely with soft water. May Queen is one of the best varieties for this purpose. Radishes.— A gentle hot-bed should be pre- pared for the cultivation of Radishes. This is much better practice than sowing them amongst Carrots or early Potatos, as the January 23, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 41 Radishes are almost certain to injure such plants as early Carrots, and the ventilation necessary to keep the Radishes within bounds is too much for the other crops. Forcing Asparagus.— Much will depend upon the facilities available as to the extent to which this work can be undertaken, but if roots and pit accommodation are available there should be no difficulty in maintaining a plentiful mi| ply of shoots. The best pit for the purpose is one in which a little fire-heat can be used in frosty weather, although good results may be obtained without fire-heat provided sufficient covering is applied in very cold weather. The materials of the old bed should be removed and replaced by a quantity of Oak, Beech or Spanish Chestnut leaves, mixed with a small quantity of horse droppings. The bed should be at least 4 feet deep and made firm and even. A covering of decayed manure should be spread over the surface, also a sprinkling of sifted leaf- mould to prevent the roots from being in direct contact with the manure at the start. The roots should be placed closely together, in order to make the most of the space, covered lightly with sifted soil, and watered with clear water at a temperature of 75°. In a few days numer- ous young shoots will push through the surface, and at this stage 4 inches of sifted leaf-mould should be spread carefully over the surface- Great care must be taken to keep the tempera- ture of the bed about 75° or the roots may be scalded and the crop ruined. When lifting Asparagus roots for forcing, do not expose them to the air for a considerable length of time, but place them in the forcing pit at once. Seakale.— The forcing of Seakale is an easy matter after the turn of the year, for then the roots quickly respond to a little warmth. Small quantities may be produced in pots or boxes in any dark chamber with sufficient heat to start the plants into growth. The soil should be rich and moderately moist; it should be pressed tightly into the pots, after which a pot of the same size should be turned over the crowns to ensure perfect- darkness. One application of water will suffice provided the atmosphere be kept moist. Under- ground pits provided with wood shutters are well suited for forcing large quantities of Sea- kale, but they must be of sufficient depth to permit of a bed of fermenting material being used to produce the necessary heat. A layer of rich soil 9 inches deep should be placed over the bed and the roots made firm. If the soil is dry, water it copiously once when the roots are placed in position. The temperature of the bed should not exceed 70°. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Eriscor, Gardener to W. R. LysaGHT, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Brazilian Miltonias.— These Orchids are not so generally cultivated as M. vexillaria and other Colombian species, but, nevertheless, they include many plants of horticultural merit. Among them are M. Clowesii, M. cuneata, M. Regnellii, M. Binotii, M. Joiceyana, M. Bluntii and M. spectabilis with its several choice varieties. All the plants belonging to the genus Miltonia are not ready for repotting at the same time ; therefore it is necessary to examine the collection at intervals to ascertain which are in need of fresh soil. This operation can be done at any time, provided the young growths are about to develop roots from their bases. For the most part ordinary flower-pots or fairly deep pans furnish the best receptacles, but for M. spectabilis and its variety Moreliana shallow pans are preferable. In the case of a few of these dwarf species, the pseudo-bulbs are carried at intervals on a creeping rhizome, and the lead or growing point should, whenever possible, be guided and pegged on the compost, or they will occupy considerable space, while the centre of the pan will be bare of growth. The smali- growing species may be suspended about 2 feet from the roof rafters, but the remainder should be arranged on the stage of the intermediate house. The receptacles, whether pots or pans, should be well drained, and the compost should consist of a mixture of Osmunda-fibre, Poly- podium-fibre, Sphagnum-moss, and partly- decayed Oak leaves in equal quantities. All the dusty portions of the leaves should be re- moved, using only the light, flaky material. I do not advocate the indiscriminate use of leaves or leaf-mould, but many Orchids are benefited if a. few decayed leaves are incorporated with the compost, especially if the plants are not in the best of health. When it is decided to repot a specimen it should be overhauled thoroughly, cutting away all dead roots and removing any useless back pseudo-bulbs, two or three of the more recent behind each growth being sufficient to retain. Each pot or pan wild accommodate several pieces, and if the leading growths are arranged carefully a neat, compact specimen will be obtained. Press the soil firm and make each shoot secure, if necessary, by means of a copper wire peg. For a few weeks the compost should be only just moist ; but, as growth advances and root action increases, the supply of water must be greater and more frequent. Plants of this section of Miltonia often present a weak, sickly appear- ance, but this is largely prevented by the in- clusion of a few half-decayed leaves in the com- post and by growing the plants in a shady part of the intermediate house, for excessive sun- light is harmful. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By A. J. Cobb, Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duffryn, South Wales. Digging and Trenching.— Vacant ground not yet dug should be dealt with at once. As to whether the land should be trenched or merely dug, will depend equally on the treatment the plot has been given in recent years and on the nature of the crops to be cultivated in the coming season, whilst the same considerations will determine the question of manuring. It may be laid down as a general rule that it is advisable to dig or trench deeply for all plants, ■trees and shrubs, thus giving them freedom for root action, good drainage, and assistance to withstand a period of drought, but trenching may not be necessary in two successive seasons. Spiraeas, [rises and Roses for Growing in Tubs.— WThere suitable positions can be found for them, herbaceous Spiraeas, Iris Kaempferi and Roses of the dwarf Polyantha type are both useful and ornamental grown in tubs. The Spiraeas and Irises suggest the water- side, and should be arranged near water, such as a Lily pond. We find them excellent for standing around the bathing pond, where the reflection of the flowers in the water produces a pretty effect. Casks cut in halves, with holes for drainage, and painted white or green or stained according to taste, make suitable re- ceptacles for the plants. The present is a suit- able time for planting. Several clumps, with strong flowering crowns, may be necessary, according to the size of the tub, for producing a good effect the first year of planting. A suit- able compost consists of three-parts fibrous loam and one part of well-decayed manure, leaf -mould, and wood ash. A few of the best tall-growing Spiraeas are S. Ai'uncus, with its variety ameri- cana ; S. angustifolia, S. palmata, S. p. elegans, S. p. rosea; Astilbe (Spiraea) japonica var. Queen Alexandra ; also the newer A. Arendsii and Arendsii Ceres can all be recommended. During the growing season the Spiraeas and Irises require an abundance of water. Suitable varieties of Roses for this system of culture are Aennchen Muller, Gloire d'Orleans and Mrs. W. H. Cutbush, all shades of pink ; Katherine Zeimet, white ; and Erna Teschendorff, crim- son. The best result is obtained by using a half standard in the centre of each tub, with three dwarf plants nearer the edge. Sweet Peas.— Where convenience exists for growing Sweet Peas in pots with a view to transferring the plants to the open ground in April, the practice of sowing outside in spring is rarely adopted. The advantages of the former method are many. The plants are better under control from mice, slugs, and cold winds; they can be planted when and where one chooses ; and bloom earlier. Plants of the earliest batch raised from seed sown in October or November should be potted into 5-inch pots. Replace the plants in the cold frame and never coddle them. A final sowing should be made to furnish plants for succession, or where the principal display of bloom is not required before July. Pots 3 to 4 inches in diameter will be large enough, placing three or four seeds in each receptacle. A little fire-heat will be neces- sary until the seedlings appear, when they will do best in a cool house or cold frame. " Streak " disease was very preva- lent last year. I observed that clumps grow- ing in the herbaceous borders which received no farmyard or stable manure the year previous were quite free from this disease, whereas those on ground which had been specially prepared and manured were diseased. It may, therefore, be wise to select ground for planting that was manured well at least a year previously. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Lady Nuxbtjrn holme, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Euphorbia (Poinrfttia) pulcherrima. —A few of the hardest and best ripened plants should be selected as they pass out of flower for pro- pagating purposes. Dry them off gradually, then place the pots on their sides under a stage where the temperature will not fall below 45°, and allow them to remain there until they show signs of starting into growth. Stock plants of other Euphorbias should be grown in a tempera- ture of 60°, watering them only sufficiently to prevent shrivelling. Other Stock Plants.— Many winter- flowering plants, including Jacobinia chryso- stephana, Erlangea tomentosa, Plumbago rosea and Bouvardia, are getting over, and a sufficient number of the best specimens should be selected for stock purposes. Give the plants every care, as it is most important to have good shoots for propagating at the proper time, for weakly cuttings seldom give the best results. Roses in Pots.— Plants that have started into growth should be kept in a moderately moist atmosphere, free from draughts. The tempera- ture may be increased to 55° as the plants ap- proach the flowering stage. Water the roots occasionally with weak liquid manure, and dust the leaves with flowers of sulphur on the first appearance of mildew. Introduce another batch of established plants into heat for succession — maintaining a temperature of 45° to 50°. Syringe the plants lightly on bright days. Examine the pots to see that the drainage is clear, and water the soil carefully until growth commences. Use the minimum amount of fire-heat to maintain the requisite temperatures. Rhododendrons and Azaleas. — Esta- blished specimens of these hard-wooded plants may be placed in gentle heat, a fruit house that has been started recently being suitable. See that the soil in the pots is soaked thoroughly at the start, or failure will result. Camellia. — To hasten the flowering of the plants the temperature of the house may be raised from 50° to 60° ; but, as a general rule, the former temperature will be sufficient. Feed the roots with weak liquid manure and soot water until the flowers have opened. Plants in borders require less water than those in pots, unless the borders are shallow and well filled with roots. Guard against drought at the roots or the flower-buds will drop. Pelargonium. - Where Pelargoniums are required for exhibition purposes the plants should be potted finally, using a firm compost and adding a good sprinkling of bone- meal. Pot firmly, and if the pots selected are on the small side the plants will De sturdier and more suitable for decorative purposes than when larger receptacles are employed. Water the roots sparingly until the top growth is well advanced, and do not crowd the plants on the stages. Ventilate the house freely on all favourable occasions. Oc- casional fumigations will keep the plants free from aphides. After the old plants of zonal- leaved Pelargoniums used for winter decoration have finished flowering select cuttings from them for fresh stock and retain the old plants for use in the flower-beds. 42 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 23, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICE. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHES, 41, Welling-ton Street, Covent Garden, W.C. Editors and Publisher- — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice ■printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing to financial matters and to advertisements should be addressed to the Publisher ; and that all communications intended for publication, or referring to the TAterary department, and all plants to be named, should be directed to the Editors. The two departments, Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed. Special Notice to Correspondents. — The Editors do not undertake to pay for any contribu- tions or illustrations, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement. The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for any opinions expressed by their correspondents. Illustrations.— The Editors will be glad to receive and to select photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of gardens, or of remarkable flowers, trees, etc, but they cannot be respon- sible for loss or injury. IjOCal News. — Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to the Editors early intelligence of local events likely to be of interest to our readers, or vf any matters which it is desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, JANUARY 25— Surveyors' Institution meet. Lecture on " The Report of the Land Enquiry Committee on LTrban Land Tenure," at 8 p.m. Average Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 39.4. Actual Temperatures : — London, January 20 (6 p.m.) : 46°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London : ThursdaJi, Januarv 21 (10 a.m.) ; Bar. 29.6 ; Temp. 47°. Weather- Raining. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— Rose Trees, Shrubs, Perennials. Bulbs, etc., at Stevens' Rooms, 38, King Street, Covent Garden, at 12.30 p.m. MONDAY— Herbaceous Plants and Hardy Bulbs, by Protheroe and Morris, at 67 and 68, Cheapside, London, at 12. Roses at 1. WEDNESDAY— Hardy Border and other Plants and Bulbs, at 12. Fruit Trees, Ferns, etc., at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris. FRIDAY— Hardy Bulbs and Herbaceous Plants, at 12. Roses and Shrubs, at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. The pomological re- Somc Russian sources of Russia have Apples. not yet ijggn vel.y thoroughly explored by this country, but there are several Apples which have become established in Great Britain which own Russia as their native land. In the United States the vast range of climate has made it necessary to search the world for varieties' from northern parallels, so that the range of fruit culture might be extended. Inasmuch as the climate of Russia presents a close parallel with that of certain parts of the United States, it is not surprising to find that suc- cess attended the importation of Russian varieties into the latter country. In Britain difficulties of climate do not pre- sent themselves in so marked a degree, and while it would be folly to suggest that commercial fruit-growing should be ex- tended to our less favourable regions, it may well be that the trial of the hardier Russian Apples might lead to their cul- tivation in private gardens where Apples are now unsuccessful. The fruit-growing regions of Russia are situated in areas which differ remarkably in climate. In the southern parts, as in the Crimea and on the Circassian shores of the Black Sea, a temperature and rain- fall occur similar to that of the Mediter- ranean coast of Europe. The Apples of this region are therefore not likely to pre- sent any special resistance to the rigours of more northern latitudes. Fruit culture is, however, successfully carried on even so far north as the 61st parallel, and as this line passes through the Shetland Isles there seems reason to believe that Apple culture in Britain might be extended very considerably by the use of suitable varie- ties. It is an interesting fact that most of the Russian Apples which have been imported into this country have certain similar characters, which suggest that they may have been derived from a common source. The lax, leathery leaves', the milk-white colour and carmine striping of the fruit, and the long, pointed, glabrous fruit-buds of manv varieties are remarkable. The fact that they are nearly all summer or autumn varieties is merely a chance, as there are many late season sorts which have not so far been tried in this country. One of the earliest Apples imported was the variety known as Duchess of Olden- burgh. The real name of this variety is Borowinka. It was introduced into Eng- land early in the last century, probably by Thomas Andrew Knight, and from thence to the Continent, where it was re-chris- tened after the Duchess, whose name is now so well known in the fruit garden. Another name which is applied to it on the Continent is Charlamowski. Mr. Wolken- stein, secretary of the Russian Imperial Society of Horticulture, has, however, pointed out that this is an error. The variety Charlamowski does, it is true, re- semble Borowinka very closely, but it differs remarkably in respect of hardiness, as the first-named Apple requires a warm climate, whilst the latter variety flourishes even so far north as the Lake of Ladoga. It would be useful to know to which of these varieties the Duchess of Oldenburgh of this country is to be referred, and the experimental testing of this fruit in northern climates would be of great in- terest. An Apple so well known needs no description, and its appearance alone would secure it a place in the garden. Nothing more beautiful can be seen in the dew of an early September morning. An Apple which has come into promin- ence in more recent times is the White or Yellow Transparent. This was intro- duced from Riga early in the last century, and was also known as Grand Sultan, and Transparent de St. Leger, de Revel, and by other names. Its Russian name is "Nanerovka." The fruit ripens from mid-July to August, and when eaten from trie tree it is of a most deli- cate flavour and abundantly juicy. It has been rather happily called a " before breakfast Apple." The milky white colour of the fruit seen against the dark leathery leaves is very striking. But the most valu- able quality of this fruit is its resistance to drought. Grown on a shallow soil, twelve inches or less, on a limestone rock, it sus- tained quite well the serious drought ex- perienced in the South-Eastern Counties during the past summer. The growth was as strong and vigorous as ever, and this on a soil where few would venture to plant Apples. The variety, therefore, is well worthy of a trial in districts where the soil is shallow and the rainfall low. An Apple which rivals Duchess of Olden- burgh in beauty is Cardinal, which was imported from Riga about 1880. It is also known as Peter the Great. There is, however, a little doubt whether the Car- dinal of England is the same as the Rus- sian one. The following description is of Cardinal as known in England : — The fruit is roundish-conical, creamy white with flush and stripes of light carmine, and is covered with a faint bloom. The flesh is soft and remarkably sweet and aromatic, and its season is from mid-August to Sep- tember. The crop is regular and good. As to the hardiness of this variety we can- not speak, but if, as seems likely, it is a native of Riga, there should be no doubt upon this point. Another Apple which has a great repu- tation for hardiness is Biela Borodovka. This fruit has some resemblance to Duchess of Oldenburgh in colouring, but is larger and more cylindrical in shape. The flesh is soft, juicy, and briskly flavoured: an excellent summer fruit which for its diges- tible qualities alone is worthy of trial. This Apple should be tried in the norther:, parts of Britain, where Apples are not usu- ally successful. The growth is very sturdy and upright. One of the most beautiful of all Apples is Emperor Alexander, a variety which has been known in this country for nearly a hundred years. This is one of the less hardy varieties, which is grown largely in Southern Russia under the name of Aport. It is stated that it came originally from Oporto. Whether or not this account be true, it bears all the marks of a Russian fruit. Dr. Hogg describes it as " perfectly hardy," but this probably refers to experi- ence gained in this country, as Russian authorities consider it rather tender, in comparison, doubtless, with the ironclad varieties mentioned" above. There are a few other Russian varieties grown in England, but those named would furnish material for an experiment in the colder regions of this country. To the® might be added the American Apple. Wealthy, which, very probably descended from Russian parents, has the reputa- tion of being one of the hardiest varieties in its own country. Coloured Plate The three varieties of Dahlias depicted in the Coloured Supplemei I belong to a new type of the flower known as Star Dahlias. They originated with Messrs. Cheal and Sons by crossing the single Dahlia, with Paeonia-flowered varieties. The first of the new type was the pink variety daw-ley Star. and it became popular directly it was exhibited, for growers recognised in this new type of Dahlia an ideal flower for garden decoration. The Floral Committee of the R.H.S. conferred an Award of Merit on the novelty, and it was also awarded the First-class Certificate of January 23, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 43 National Dahlia Society. Plants of Crawley :Star were included in Mr. Reginald Cory's trials of Dahlias at Duffryn, and the gardener, Mr. Arthur Cobb, informs us that the plants grew from 3 to 3i feet high, with a graceful habit, and were sufficiently bushy to make good -specimens without appearing heavy. The plants are tree in flowering, and they develop both semi- double and single blooms on the same speci- men, the lower blooms within 1 foot of the soil. "Crawley Star has been selected with five other -varieties for the final award of Mr. Cory's Cup, offered for the most useful garden variety. Lowfield Star is slightly darker in colour than Crawley Star, and the base of each floret is .marked with a darker blotch. Worth Star is much paler than the other two, and there is a fourth variety, White Star, which is illustrated in fig. 14. All the varieties are suitable for massing in beds or for grouping in threes in the hardy flower border. The flowers of these Dahlias somewhat resemble those of the Cosmea, and have, on occasion, been termed Cosmea-flowered Dahlias. War Items.— Mr. 'George Martin, gardener, .'Sinnmer Bank, Perth, has received information of the death at the front of his son Robert, of the Highland Light Infantry. Private Robert Marten joined the army about three years ago and went to France with the Indian Expedi- tionary Force. He was only 21 years of age. The Dunfermline Horticultural Society las joined in the movement for the supply of vegetables and fruit to the Fleet, and has sent weekly consignments. Penpont Horticultural Society, Dumfriesshire, and Campbelitown Hor- ticultural Society have also taken part in the .movement. At the commencement of the war Messrs. Lowe and Shawyer, Ltd., had a very large .acreage of crops in hand, and were paying out 'close on £500 a week in wages and salaries. Messrs. Lowe and Shawyer did not consider 'themselves justified in continuing this under the circumstances, so they called their men together and asked them to say which of the following itwo courses they preferred : — (1) For all to stay ■on who cared to, and for all to take part only • of their regular wages for the time being, with A promise that the part left back should be paid later if all the firm's crops could be sold. (2) For a considerable number of hands to be paid off, and for those kept on to be paid their wages in full. The men voted unanimously in favour of No. 1, and no men were discharged at all. Messrs. Lowe and Shawyer have been able to market practically all their produce, and last week the last of the wages left back by the men were paid up in full. The firm start next week giving their men the Saturday after- noons off, except when tangent work has to be done. In these cases, and for Sunday work, Messrs. Lowe and Shawyer propose hence- forward to pay for all time made at time-and-a- 'half rates. They are also endeavouring to institute a system of bonuses and other extras under which, if successful, and so far as this can be applied, their men will be able to earn consider- able additions to their ordinary wages. ■ Private T. Cossar, a member of the F Company, Artists' Rifles, writing to Mr. Cuthbertson from the front on January 7. re- lates the following interesting particulars : — " We held our Christmas festivities in a greenhouse where we were billeted and had quite a good time. The meal consisted of cold roast beef, ■cold chicken and ham, and hot Christmas pudding, and there was a singsong afterwards, •so really we fared much better than many out here. You would be interested in the green- houses, one of which we were billeted in. They are quite the best thing in the way of green- nouses I have ever seen. They are mostly used (for growing Grapes, and there seemed to be scores of houses, each 80 or 90 yards long and splendidly constructed. All were heated by water pipes and lighted with electricity. I should imagine that the concern is splendidly managed, but things are almost at a standstill. The greenhouse we were in was quite a good place to sleep in, as we had straw on the ground and could heat the pipes. ... I have so far only had two days in the trenches ; the battalio.i n'as in for a week, but my company only did two days. I had one day in the reserve trenches and the other in the firing line; the former were more comfortable, as there were decent dug-outs, and I slept quite well with two other men, although it was a tight squeeze." Much and commendable vigilance is being maintained just now in various depart- ments of the Government to prevent munitions of war reaching the enemy through neutral countries. Trade telegrams are submitted to searching scrutiny, one of which exercised the acumen of a number of officials in one of the public offices a few days ago. It was addressed to a firm in Holland, and was to the following effect: — "Three thousand vallies required for retarding." Now one of the articles of contra- spring and autumn shows in connection with the society will meet with general approval in Scot- land, where much regret was felt that it was necessary to abandon last year's autumn ex- hibition. The Glasgow and West of Scotland Horticultural Society has also decided to hold an autumn show. Larch Canker.— An interesting and sug- gestive contribution to the study of Larch canker has been made by Mr. W. E. Hiley, of the Research Institute School of Forestry, Oxford (see Quarterly Journal of Forestry, No 1, ix., January, 1915). As a result of careful observa- tion and investigation Mr. Hiley reaches the conclusion that canker of the main trunks is produced, not, as is currently believed, by the entrance of the mycelium of the canker fungus (Dasyscypha calycina) through chance wounds, but by its entrance along the course of the dead lateral branches. He holds that the fungus is primarily a saprophyte, that it gains access to and grows in the dead branch, and that it may spread therefrom to the living tissues by sending out excretions which first poison those tissues. Mr. Hiley does not deny that wounds may serve as foci for the spread of the disease in the tree, Fig. 14. — dahlia white star. band in greatest request by the German mili tary authorities being india-rubber, they are glad to purchase old tyres for retreading. The telegram aforesaid parsed from one room to another in the Office, suggested interpre- tations being gravely initialled by one official after another, and the general consensus of guesses being tliat "vallies" was a cryptic trade term for tyres, and that "retarding" was a mis-reading of "retreading." Fortunately the paper landed at last with a gentleman who, being a keen horticulturist, was able to explain the message as a harmless one, being a request for 3,000 Liiies-ofthe-valley for retarding by cold treatment '. The Surveyors' Institution. -A meeting of the Surveyors' Institution will be held in the Lecture Hall of the Institution on Monday, tlie 25th inst., at 8 p.m., when papers will be read by Mr. J. G. Head (Fellow), and Mr. Joshua Bory (Fellow), on "The Report of the Land Enquiry Committee on Urban Land Tenure." Flower Shows in Scotland. -The deci- sion of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society at the annual meeting to hold both the but he holds that by far the most important centres of infection are the branches which, having died, remain on the tree and serve as starting-points for the spread of the fungus to living parts. The conclusion carries with it a modification of current practice. On the old view, which regarded every wound as a likely centre of infection, the dead branches were not cut away for fear lest the entrance of the fungus might be encouraged. On the new view this s bad practice, and the forester must cut away the branches as soon as they have died. If this be done in dry weather, preferably between Decem- ber and March, there will be little risk of wound- infection, for it is known that the spores of Dasyscypha calycina are only shed in a damp atmosphere. On the basis of these observations ilr. Hiley recommends the following | ictice. When trees are from 6 to 8 years i ! 1 lit oft', i inch from the trunk, the lowermost branches, including the oldest living branches. Continue each year during spells of dry weather to take off those branches, which if left would SOOD die. Burn the branches in order to reduce the number of fructifications of the fungus. In support rf these recommendations Mr. Hiley cites the re- sults of pruning Larch in plots .it Bagley Wood. Though pruned severely the trees show no sign 44 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 23, 1915. o£ canker, whereas in neighbouring plots of Larch grown in the usual way canker is rife. The practice recommended may be carried out in plantations up to 15 years without any great expense, and Mr. Hiley is convinced that if it be adopted the increased value of the planta- tions will repay the outlay many times over. Home-grown WHEAT.-We have received from Mr. R. B. Marston a reprint of an article published by him in the Fishing Gazette. urging an increase in the acreage under Wheat. We have already — immediately after the out- break of war — urged that as much land as pos- sible should be laid down to Wheat and other cereals. The advice still holds good. Moreover, having regard to the present price of Wheat, we are of opinion that an enquiry should be held immediately, not only into the acreage which might be spring sown, but also into the cause of the present rise of prices. That a rise was in- evitable is clear, but whether the extent of the rise is wholly natural or not ought in our opinion to be determined by a swift official enquiry. Sources of Potash. -It ie claimed in America that soluble potash salts may be pro- duced from the insoluble potash contained in fel- spar, and, having regard to the inevitable short- age of potash manures owing to the cessation ot export of kainit from Germany, it would be well worth while for British chemists to investi- gate this claim. The treatment by which it is proposed to convert the potash into soluble form consists in mixing ground felspar and lime, and kneading the mixture by means of calcium chloride into small lumps. The lumps are passed into a rotatory kiln, and, as a Tesult of the high temperature to which they are expossd, a soluble potash compound (potassium chloride) is pro- duced. The lumps pass from the kiln into leaching vats, and the solution of potassium chloride thus obtained is evaporated, giving rise to a strong liquor containing 10 per cent, of the potash 6alt. Periodical Flowering of the Bamgoo.— No phenomenon of plant life is more impressive than the periodicity of flowering exhibited by such plants as* the Bamboos. An illustration of this periodicity is given in the Indian Forester (November, 1914), wherein is described the flowering of Bambusa polymorpha in Burma dur- ing 1914. The last outbreak of flowering, when all the plants burst into blossom, was in 1859-60. The seed then produced gave rise to the plants, which, after 54 yeans of preparation, burst into flower simultaneously. The article above cited draws attention to the facts that in the year before flowering no vegetative shoots are pro- duced, and that if, as may happen, an occasional Bamboo flowers precociously it fails to produce seed, owing apparently to self-sterility. Accord- ing to Dr. Horsens, Bamboos may be divided into three gTOU2>s, according to their flowering habits. These groups are (1) annually flower- ing, (2) intermittently flowering, and (3) period- ically flowering species. Rainfall in 191 4.- Mr. A. Wilson, Had- ley Bourne Gardens, Barnet, sends records which show that ram fell on 189 days, the total being 30.33 inches. In December 3.10 inches were registered, but March was wetter with 4.83 inches. In April there were only nine wet days, and during that month only .88 inch was re- corded. On December 9 rain fell to the extent of 1.42 inch.. January was very dry. Mr. C. A. Bayford, Davenham Gardens, Malvern, states that the rainfall amounted to 27.03 inches. January was the driest month, with only 0.82 inch, and December the wettest month with 5.31 inches. Rain fell on 182 days during the year, the heaviest fall in 24 hours being on June 9, when a total fall of 1.39 inch was regis- tered. Mr. J. Edmund Clark states that the rainfall at Purley, Surrey, amounted to 34.24 inches, as compared with an average of 30.28 inches for 1905-14. February, March, Novem- ber and December contributed 23.18 inches. Although the December total of 9.06 inches is, of course, exceeded in districts further west, it is perhaps the first occasion that 9 inches has been exceeded in any month in the metropolitan area since records have been made. The rainfall recorded by Mr. H. Jundper, Dyrham Park Gardens, Barnet, amounted to 27.78 inches, being 65 inches more than in 1913. The hottest day was July 1, when the thermometer registered 88° ; the coldest was JanuaTy 24, with 19° ; and the wettest, Decem- ber 9, when 1.26 inch of rain fell. Mr. Wynuh.™ Fitzherbert gives the fol- lowing particulars of the rainfall at Kirigswear, South Devon : — In December the rainfall amounted to 12.06 inches, the largest fall for one month in the past fifteen years, the next highest being in October, 1907, when 11.52 inches was recorded, and in December, 1911, when the amount was 10.40 inches. No other monthly fall in the past fifteen years amounted to 10 inches. In last December there were only four days without rain, these being the 21st, 22nd, 23rd, and 24th. Over an inch of rain fell on four days — namely, 1 04 inch on the 6th, 1.18 inch on the 17th, 1.24 inch on the 20th, and 1.28 inch on the 28th. Other falls of over an inch in the year were 1.60 on March 8; 1.02, March 19; 1.80, July 19 ; 1.45 August 14 ; 1.35. September 4 ; 1.10, October 31 ; and 1.12, November 30. The fall for the year has been : — January, 2.04 ; Feb- ruary, 5.98; March, 8.36; April, 1.78; May, 2.34; June, 0.71; July, 4.68; August, 4.08; Sep- tember, 4.98; October, 4.36; November, 6.50; and December, 12.06 ; this making a total for the year of 57.87 inches, or 7.47 inches in excess o* the next heaviest rainfall recorded, which was 59.40 inches in 1912. Mr. Thomas Tyson, Wykehurst Park Gardens, Sussex, states that the year's rainfall amounted to 33.69 inches and that rain fell on 157 days. The greatest fall in 24 hours occurred on November 12, when 1.14 was registered. There were 25 rainy days in March, the fall in that month being 5.26 inches. September was a particularly dry month, there only being five days on which rain fell, the total for the month being 1.20. May and June were almost as dry, there only being a total 'n the two months of 1.69. Mr. T. E. Tomalin sends the following data from Bessboruugh Gardens, County Kilkenny :— Having started with a wonder- fully dry January, during which month only 1.56 inch of rain fell on nine days, February, once more justifying its name of " Filldyke," followed by rain on 24 days, and the large total of 5.90 inches. March, too, was a wet month, with a total rainfall of 4.24 inches and 26 rainy days; but during the next three months dry weather mostly prevailed, and the half-year closed with, for this district, the small total of 15.82 inches, as against 26.14 inches during the same period of 1913. June was the driest month, with rain on nine days and a total of 0.70 inch only. An average rainfall during July was followed by 5.41 inches in August, this being 1.80 inch above the average for the month. September and October were both dry months, with rain on 12 days in each, and totals of 2.13 inches and 1.31 inch respectively. November was slightly over thp average with 3.59 inches on 21 days, while Dece-nber was by far the wettest month of the year with a total of 9.47 inches and 25 wet days, the heaviest fall occurring on Christmas Day, when 1.25 inch were recorded. This total for one month has only once been exceeded during the time in which records have been kept here, and this, strangely enough, ■ was in the same month of 1911, when the total • rainfall measured 9.97 inches. The total rain- fall during 1914 amounted to 40.97 inches, this being 2.69 inches above the average for the past seven years, and is surprising in view of the small total for the first six months. The rain- fall record during the summer months last year is not an accurate guide as to the weather ex- perienced. A good deal of the rain fell during the night, and the summer was, on the whole, delightfully fine and very favourable for garden crops of all kinds. The fine weather during September and October, too, enabled an unpre- cedented fruit crop to be harvested in first-class condition. Mr. A. C. Scott, of Oxenfoord Castle Gardens, Ford, Mid-Lothian, states that the total rainfall amounted to 20.63 inches — about 6 inches below the average. November and December were the wettest months, with 3.02 and 4.46 inches, respectively, while April was the driest with a total of .75. The year 1913 had the remarkably low record of 17.39 inches. The Greenness of Grass in Recently Flooded Areas.— Those who have the fortune to live in the neighbourhood of the flooded ares, of the Thames and its tributaries must have ob- served the wonderfully vivid tint of green as- sumed by the grassland soon after the flood water has left it. The phenomenon is as puzzling as it is beautiful, and it would be worth the while of some botanist to seek to determine the cause. Mr. N. N. Sherwood, J. P.-Thelistof new Justices for the County of Essex includes the name of Mr. Nathaniel Newman Sherwood, of Prested Hall, Kelvedon. Mr. Sherwood, who i6 a member of the firm of Messrs. Hurst and Son, seed merchants, is well known to our readers for his good work in connection with the horticultural charities, and especially the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund, of which fund his son Edward is treasurer. Mr. J. F. McLeod, for many ye?.rs past steward and gardener to the late J. Pierpont Morgan, has removed to Wickford, Essex, where he will engage in farming. For the pre- sent, and acceding to Mr. Morgan's wishes in the matter, Mr. McLeod will continue his responsibility for the Dover House Estate, but as he removed from Spencer Cottage, Roe- hampton, on Tuesday last, it is requested that all letters be addressed to The Hall, Wickford, Essex. Publications Received. — The Sweet Pea Annual, 1915. (The National Sweet Pea Society.) Price 2s. — Gardening for Amateurs. Edited by 11. H. Thomas. Part 23. (London: Cassell and Co., Ltd.) Price 7d. — The Westmaline Disinfecting System of Plant Culture. By Charles Edward West. — The Philippine Agricultural Review. Nos. 10, 11, and 12. (The Director of Agriculture, Manila, P.L) S2 per year. — Home Landscapes. By W.Robinson. (London: John Murray.) Price £2 12s. 6d.-77ie Orchid Review. January, 1915. Edited by R. Allen Rolfe. (London : Marshall Brothers, Ltd ) Price fid monthly. — Agricultural Economist and Horticultural Review. Fditcd by Edward Owen Greening. (London: Eden Fisher and Co., Ltd.) Price Cd. monthly.- Fundamental Principles of Co-opera- tion in Agriculture. By G. Harold Powell ; Vine Pruning in California. Tart 2. By Frederic T. Bioletti ; Some Things the Prospective Settler Should Know. By T. F. Hunt (Circular No. 123, Bulletin No. 210,'and Circular No. 121. issued by the College of Agriculture, Berkeley, Cali- fornia) — Report of the College of Agriculture and the Agricultural Experiment Station of the University of California, 1913 14. (Berkeley: University of California Press.) — Journal Kept by David Douglas During his Travels in N. America, 1823-1827, with At pendices. Published under the direction of the Royal Horticultural Society. 1911- (London: Wesley and Son.) Pr ce one guinea net. - Trans- actions of the Roval Scottish Arbor icultural Societv. Vol. XXIX., Part 1. January, 1915. Edited by A. W. Borthwick, D.Sc. (Edinburgh : Douglas and Foulis, Castle Street.) Price 3s. Supplement to the " Gardeners' Chronicle.' THE NEW DECORATIVE TYPE OF DAHLIA AT TOP, WORTH STAR; LEFT, LOWFIELD STAR; RIGHT, CRAWLED STAR January 23, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 45 POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET_BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE i(XI)7 LA RECONSTRUCTION DES ViLLES ANEANTIES. Monsieur le Redacteur, — J'ai lu avec beau- coup de plaisir dans votre Ohronique Speciale (8) votre article sur la reconstruction des villes aneanties, et en qualite de president de la plus ancienne societe agricole et horticole (qui depuis deux ou trois ans s'est interessee dans l'horti- culture de la France et de la Belgique) je vous demande la permission d'offrir quelques observa- tions a vos lecteurs. Grand nombre de villes ont subi des desastres en Belgique : le nombre de villages detruits est beaucoup plus considerable. Les allies savent combien la Belgique a souffert pour sauvegarder son independance et combien son attitude a ete utile a la cause commune. Le Times a dit quelque part au debut de la guerre que Ton re- construira en Belgique des villages plus jolis et plus riants. On a compris les inconvenients des agglomera- tions urbaines aussi s'est-on rapproche des avantages de la campagne en creant des cites- jardins. Le village n'est pas la cite-jardin arti- ficielle mais la cite-jardin par essence, et avec tres peu de frais, ou plutot sans frais, on peut l'enjoliver. II suffit en effet d'adopter quelques jolies l'gnes, quelques dispositions heureuses et de respecter le style regional. A l'exposition de Gand en 1913 un groupe d'agronomes et d'esthetes, sous la presidence de M. Jules Melotte, avait eu l'excellente idee d'organiser l'exposition agricole dans le cadre d'un "village moderne " afin de montrer aux eampagnards quelques dispositions pratiques, quelques manieres elegantes et economiques, de resoudre le probleme des constructions rurales, de leur encadrement fleuri, de l'arrangement des jardins et des vergers.* Cette demonstration obtint un succes merite et a la fin de l'exposition Ton constitua une association pour l'embellisse- ment de la vie rurale avec des sections dans chaque province. Cette association aura fort a faire apres la guerre : les cultivateurs, les administrations communales des villages sinistres pourront soumettre a cette association et a ses sections leurs projets de reconstruction et ils recevront gratuitement toutes les suggestions utiles. Cette association se proposait d'organiser un congres pour discuter ces questions : il serait souhaitable que ce congres eut lieu et que les specialistes des nations alliees y soient invites pour y soumettre leurs idees. Les exemples de l'Angleterre et de la France seront suivis avec empressement. En attendant, un comite agricole sous la pre- sidence de M. Tibbaut, president du conseil superieur de l'agriculture, assiste la Commission for Relief of Belgium pour ravitailler la cam- pagne. La Belgique est excessivement recon- naissante aux Americains pour le genereux appui qu'ils lui pretent en ce6 penibles circonstances. Agreez, Monsieur, l'assurance de ma con- sideration distinguee. S. G. Shead, Master of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners of London, 1, Connaught Place, W., le 15 Janvier, 1915. struire les villes beiges ruinees, sous forme de cites-jardins modernes. M. Herbert Samuel, ministre du Local Government Board d'Angle- terre, assistera a cette conference, et M. Helle- putte, ministre de l'agriculture et des travaux publics de Belgique, y representera officiellement son pays. Le comite executif de 1' Association inter- nationale des cites-jardins et d'amenagement des villes, est preside par M. Harris. II a adopte en sa seance du 14 Janvier le programme suivant pour la conference — Jeudi, 11 fevrier, confe- rences; vendredi, 12 fevrier, visite a Letchworth; samedi, 13 fevrier, visite a Hampstead ; iundi, 15 fevrier, conferences et conclusions. Ces visites et conferences ont ete organisees avec le but de montrer et d'expliquer aux Beiges le fonotionnement et l'amenagement de cites- jardins en vue de la reconstruction de la Bel- gique. Un bureau de renseignements a ete ouvert a cet effet : 3, Gray's Inn Place, London, W.C. L'idee de cette conference est extremement heureuse. Toils les Beiges que le projet interesse sont pries de se mettre en rapport avec l'associa- tion pour lui donner leur utile concouTS. ECOLE NATIONALE D'HORTICULTURE DE VERSAILLES. Le Conseil d'Administration de l'Association amicale des anciens eleves de l'Ecole nationale d'Horticulture de Versailles, a fait coincider sa reunion avec la seance de reouverture de la Societe Nationale d Horticulture de France. En raison des evenements, une douzaine Je membres — a qui le triste privilege de l'age on de l'invalidite permet encore de s'occuper d'horticulture — etaient presents. L'association, fondee en 1882 (la premiere pro- motion de l'Ecole d'Horticulture date de 1874), contient pres de 700 membres. Sur ce nombre 500 environ sont a l'armee. Le president, en fonction, M. A. Nomblot, le devoue secretaire- general de la Societe nationale, est sur le front comme capitaine dans un regiment de terri- toriale. Tous les membres francais, mobilisables, qui sejoumaient a l'etranger au moment de la declaration de guerre ont tenu, aussitot, a se mettre a la disposition des autorites militaires. L'association compte deja, helas ! dix de ses membres tombes au champ d'honneur. D'autres sont blesses ou prisonniers. Dans sa reunion le bureau a pris connaissance d'une cinquantaine de lettres de camarades actuellerhent au front. Toutes, qu'elles emanent de jeunes ou de vieux, expriment le patriotisme le plus pur, l'esprit d'abnegation et de sacrifice la plus eleve, l'enthousiasme le plus ardent et la confiance la plus absolue en la victoire finale. L'ecole elle-meme, ayant eu presque tous ses eleves ainsi que la majeure partie de son per- sonnel, mobilisees, a ete licenciee. Le gouvernement otudie actuellement la possi- bility de la rouvrir le 1 mars, 1915. A. Meunissier, secretaire. Rappelons que, de son cote, 1' International Garden Cities and Town Planning Associa- tion organise une importante conference en vue de discuter la possibility de recon- * La description completed:' cette entreprise altefaite par M. P. De Vuyst dans nn magniflque ouvrage illiistrt', Le Village moderne, edite par M. Goemaere, 21, Rue de la LiiTiitc, Bruxelles. On pent obtenir cet ouvrage par l'inter- mediaire d'nnc lihrairic hollandaiBe. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Les Pommes de Terre a Paris.— La douceur de la temperature et son humidite ne sont pas favorables au developpernent de la con- sommation de la Pomme de terre. Les arrivages en salades sont assez importants, puis ceux en Pommes de terre d'Algerie et d'Espagne qui commencent concurrencent ce tubercule ; l'aug- mentation du prix de la viande de boucherie pourra faire rejeter la classe ouvriere et bour- geoise sur lui, mais il reste encore des stocks de pates alimentaires du mois de septembre qu'il faut consommer. Les affaires sont calmes, les vendeurs assez nombreux, les cours lourds. On cote strazeele du Nord 85 a 90 ; hollande, 120 a 125; royale du Gatinais, 140 a 150; saucisse de choix du Gatinais, 95 a 100 ; du Poitou, 100 a 105 ; de la Sarthe, 93 a 98 ; ronde jaune, 82 a 85 ; ronde blanche, 60 a 62 ; Early Rose, 85 a 90 ; lo tout aux mille kilos, sur wagons com- plets gares depart. Echo dc Paris. La Situation a Gand. — The National Nurseryman de Rochester, N.Y., U.S.A., publie, dans son numero de Janvier, 1915, une lettre de Belgique. Beaucoup d'horticulteurs sont obliges de loger des soldats allemands. Les chevaux sont places dans leurs serres et locaux amenages pour l'hivernage des Lauriers. Le probleme le plus inquietant serait le defaut de combustible, qu'il est impossible de se procurer. [Nos lecteurs se rappelleront les correspon- dances que nous avons recues a ce sujet de Gand et qui f urent publiees dans nos numeros des 5 et 26 decembre, 1914, pages 367 et 414.] La Foret de Soignes, promenade favorite des Bruxellois qui allaient au cours de l'ete se reposer a l'ombre de ses Hetres et Chenes gigantesques, a fortement souf- fert a la suite de la guerre. Aux appi'oches du froid toute la population des environs s'est ruee a l'assaut de la foTet pour se procurer du combustible, arrachanit des arbres sans con- siderer l'avenir des plantations. Les gardes forestiers etaient insumsants a la tache et le! proces-verbaux pLeuvant dru ne retenaient nulle ment les maraudeurs ; " II fallait se chauffer.' Dans certains cas, des soldats de la Landsturm, de garde dans les environs, encourageaient la population et semblaient bien souvent s'en prendre aux arbres dont la conservation eta it indispensable. Des gardes forestiers accomplis- sant leur mission furent molestes par ces " democrates. " Brusquement, un ordre venu de la '' Kommandantur " mit fin a la situation, de nombreux villageois surpris dans la foret furent apprehendes par des cavaliers allemands et jetes en prison. Depuis lors l'armee d'occupa- tion veille a la conservation de la Foret de Soignes. L'Allemand protecteur des beaux sites en Belgique . . . Comme 9a le change ! KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. Van 11 tot 15 Februari e.k., worden ver- gaderingen belegd waarop het vraagstuk der her- bouwing van de vernietigde steden in Belgie zal besproken worden. M. Helleputte, minister van den belgischen landbouw, zal er de regeering vertegenwoordigen. Men meldt dat de Duitschers deu brand der oplegfabriek van Wespelaer gebluscht hebben om den voorraad ingelegde waxen te kunnen buit maien. Thans zou de fabriek terug aan't werk zijn. Van zijnen leant houdt het bestuur van hot Nieuwerwetsche Dorp, dat ter tentoonstelling van Gent zulken schitterenden bijval oogstte, zieh insgelijks met het vraagstuk bezig. In Zonienbosch werd veel schade aangericlit door het onbezonnen uitkappen van boomen ten gevolge der schaarschheid aan brandstoffen. Doch, na korten tijd, werden de houtdieven door de Duitschers vastge/.ct. on sinds houdert de mannen die zich kenmerkten door hunnen vcniiotigingsgeest, de wnclit op de wandeling der Brusselaars. . . . 46 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 23, 1915. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. {The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions expressed by correspondents.) The Pernetian Rose. — Mr. Pemberton's article on p. 25 is to be welcomed, and is an admirable statement of the position from his point of view. His analogy of Rosa Noiset- tiana, or the iNoisette Rose, is, I be- lieve, quite apt, and far more accurate than are the majority of analogies, but there is a short answer to its application at the present day. The Noisette Rose was raised by M. Philippe Noisette, probablv in the year 18i4; at all events, he sent it to Paris in 1817, long before the rules of botanical nomen- clature were thought of. These were issued in 1905 by the Congress held at Vienna in that year, and, so far as I can ascertain, the name Rosa Noisettiana has not been used in any of the official publications of the National Rose Society since that date. There may be some isolated cases where the name has crept in by inadvertence, though I Slave not found one, and I think it may be taken that the name has been abandoned in favour of the perfectly cor- rect designation Noisette Rose. The question, however, that he has raised whether R. lutea of Miller and also Aiton is distinct from what is generally known nowadays as Austrian Yellow is of much greater interest. That ■in one sense they came from different countries admits, I think, of no doubt. R. lutea came from the Orient, and the Aus- trian Yellow from Southern Europe. I think Mr. Pemberton is over-hasty in casting as- persions on it as "made in Austria." I have .is yet found no definite report of its coming from there. Mrs. Gore gives us for Its habitat Piedmont. Provence and the neighbourhood of Soissons. Rejel says "Europa. australi et in Oriente," the latter, of course, referring to Miller's Rose. Lindley gives us Alliano. Wer- theim (which is getting near), Southern France and " Wirceburgum," but not Austria. I think it must have got the name Austrian from its likeness (except in colour) to Austrian Copper, R. lutea bicolor of the botanists. Linnaeus called it R. Eglanteria, and at one time did not distinguish it from the Rubiginosae- (see iSp. Plant. 703). Redoute figured it under this name, ■.md Thory, who wrote the letterpress to Re- doute, couples this R. Eglanteria with R. lutea. giving first Linnaeus' description of R. Eglan- terift and then Aiton's of R. lutea, and states that there are indications that it is indigenous in the neighbourhood of Paris. Deseglise, who goes most elaborately into the question of habitat of R. lutea, devotes some three pages to the alleged spontaneous occurrence of this Rose in Europe, and mentions localities in Germany, France, Italy, Spain and even England (but not Austria), where it is supposed to have been found, but he is clearly of opinion that with the exception perhaps of Moldavia in Turkey it is vowhere spontaneous in Europe, but onlv occurs there as an escape from cardens, it having prob- ably been brought to Europe in very ancient times. It is not a little curious that this Rose, -which is almost certainly itself a hybrid and forms no seed, should have been able to main- tain itself after its introduction in the way that it has done : but this alone is not sufficient to prove that, the plants found growing in Europe are distinct from those of the Orient, and a careful consideration of the evidence seems rather to point to the correctness of Deseglise's opinion. No doubt in the course of its long residence in Europe it is possible that the Euro- pean plants may. from the influence of their environment, have developed some slight dif- ferences from those at present found in the Orient, but Mr. Pemberton does not suggest •what these differences are. He relies entirely on the difference of habitat to prove that these are two distinct Roses, and, in the circumstances, and having regard to the overwhelming weight of authority the other way, this seems insuf- ficient. Of the origin of Persian Yellow we know nothing, except that it was brought by Willock from eastern gardens in 1837. It is srenerally assumed to be a derivative of R. lutea, but "having regard to the absence of seed from the latter it seems even more likely to have come from some common parent. White Pose. Forcing Christmas Roses.— I am so fully persuaded that the practice of lifting these plants from the border for forcing, as recom- mended by Mr. C. H. Cook, p. 348, Vol. LVL, has been a great factor in depleting gardens generally of this precious winter flower that I am tempted to raise a word of protest. In the opening words of the paragraph referred to it is said that the plants " respond to a little warmth, a temperature of 55° " being recom- mended. With greater truth might it have been written that a little later the plants resent such treatment in a thousand-fold degree. No one who has studied the Tooting pecu- liarities of the Christmas Rose, and noted the ill-effects of this lifting and forcing, can gain- say this statement. It is futile to blame the plants by the hackneyed phrase "impatient of removal," because it is not true. The late Mr. Brocklebank, of Didsbury, lifted, divided, and replanted much of his stock of these plants bi- ennially. And no amateur hardy-plant grower could have boasted — as he did not — of finer flowers or more handsome foliage. True, he specialised with Hellebores, but he was well re- paid by results. That, surely, should be the best answer to the " impatient of removal " theorists, though it might be backed by much experience of my own were it necessary. The section of Helleborus referred to do, however, resent in- terference in mid-winter or in spring, as is demonstrated by the debilitated, leafless tufts so often seen. The true-happiness test of the Christmas Rose is handsome, protecting, persis- tent leafage ; without it something is wrong ; and, disease apart, that " something " is usually due to errors of cultivation and judgment. If lifted and forced plants are examined during early spring it will be found that the mutilated root-fibres are decaying wholesale in the direc- tion of the rhizome, indeed, they never elongate, and the sparsely-produced lateral root-fibres but inadequately supply the needs of the plant. Hence the weakness so often seen. In short, the Christmas Rose cannot with impunity be lifted in December and treated as recommended by your correspondent. Moreover, it is unnecessary. Bv growing the several varieties of H. niger flowers may be had from altifolius (maximus) in late November to mid-December, when it is linked up by major (Bath variety), which, with Scoticus, is reliable for flowering from Christmas into mid-January, when Juverna or angusti- folius carries on the succession. There are others, as "Apple Blossom" and Mme. Four- cade, that go to swell the display of flowers, while those named are givintr of their best. The rational thing to do is stated by Mr. W. Crump at p. 416, for a cold frame or handlight is all these plants should have for their protection. When required for the decoration of the winter- garden, conservatory or greenhouse. Hellebores should be grown specially in pots or tubs. In this way and with root-fibres intact the atmo- spheric conditions of such places do no harm. Artificial heat, however, applied as directed by Mr. C. H. Cook, is highly detrimental. E. H. Jcnk'it*. A Selection of Apples (see p. 20). — I condemned Mr. Weston's list because it is too long by the inclusion of varieties that are not required, because they are inferior in point of quality to others, and therefore taking up space unnecessarily. The mere wish to make a display in the fruit-room or on the exhibition table does not carry weight with me when dealing with the list on utilitarian principles, or for the smaller grower who has space only for the best varieties. Had Mr. Weston in the first place dealt with the selection for both the purposes he now states then there would not have been the same Teason for my criticism. Instead of that he had only one class of cultivator in view. Now in relation to newer varieties. Has Mr. Weston grown Edward VII. ? If not, he would find it superior as a culinary variety to many others he names. In growth the tree is all that could be desired, crops freely, the fruit is not enormously large : shapely, firm in flesh, and of excellent quality when cooked. In the near future this Apple will rival Dumelow's Seedling (Wellington), and in some respects Bramley's Seedling. It is in season from January to April. If Mr. Weston will plant this variety he can reduce his list by eliminating- Northern Greening, Alfriston,. Barnack Beauty, Mere de Menage, Tower of Glammis and even Bismarck. This, to me, would be a useful reduction, and not one of these varieties make much of a show in the fruit-room except Mere de Menage, which is but a poor Apple beyond its intense colouring. If the variety Arthur Turner be included it would dis- pose of Loddington, the Queen, and Hambling's Seedling. Mr. Weston may not know Arthur Turner. It is an October variety, very prolific in a young state, the fruit of large size, and good appearance. Royal Jubilee deserves a place in a collection, for the tree seldom fails to crop freely, and is good in every respect. As an October and November Apple this variety would easily displace several in Mr. Weston's list. In his list of dessert sorts Mr. Weston misses W. Crump, which is perhaps the next best late dessert Apple to Cox's Orange Pippin in use in January and February; a desirable Apple for the fruit-room certainly, as its rich, colour is attractive, while the flavour is desir- able. By the inclusion of this one sort, Ash- mead's Kernel, Wealthy, Brownlee's Russet, Lord Hindlip and Melon Apple could easily be- dispensed with. Respecting Grenadier, as an early cooking Apple. It is news to me to learn that an Apple for cooking should be ripe before gathering. Surely Mr. Weston is not here in earnest ? Does he maintain that all Apples that are used for cooking should be ripe first? One must infer that Mr. Weston sends these cooking Apples to his employer's table in a ripe condi- tion. I did not say that Worcester Pearmain was desirable to eat in December. I was think- ing of the exhibition table and the fruit- room display which Mr. Weston lays so much stress- on as a reason for recommending so manv sorts. E. Molyneux: Ornithogalum lacteum (see p. 413, Vol. IA I.).— Four or five years ago I purchased' flowering stems of Ornithogalum lacteum under the name " Cherinkerikeri '• from a local florist, and they lasted six weeks during and after Christmastime. The flowering scapes had the- bulbs attached, and had only a few flowers open at the bottom of the spike, "those above unfold- ing successively, so that there were always about as many in blossom as on a Paper Narcissus. These, I found, had been obtained from a wholesale flower-seller near Covent Garden, and on enquiring there the next year I found that the flowers were " snapped up"" as soon as they were seen, and since then I have only been able to obtain one or two from correspondents who enquired the name of the species, which had been sent to them privately. But the flowers are such an acquisition at a time when flowers are scarce, that I am surprised there is not a con- siderable trade in them, but am informed that the trade exportation of them was forbidden by the authorities in Cape Colony. I should be glad to learn if this is so, because Ornithogalum thyrsoides. which is said to possess properties poisonous to grazing animals, is probably de- stroyed where abundant, and would apparently serve as well as 0. lacteum for an orna- mental plant at Christmastime, and would thus pay for the expense of getting rid of it, and if appreciated as much as 0. lacteum. might be cultivated for exportation. One interesting circumstance occurred in connection with some specimens of this Ornithogalum lacteum sent to- me to be named. The correspondent said : — " I find with the flowers some fine caterpillars, white with yellow and black markings, but the flowers do not seem to be eaten." On looking at the plants I found that the bulbs were eaten, and came to the conclusion that the larva was a root feeder and possibly belonged to some group allied to the Agrotid moths of this country. I took the insect to the Natural History Museum to identify it there, but found' that the Museum did not possess a specimen, and it, as well as the moth to which it belonged, was unknown. I fed the larvae sent to me for some weeks on the bulbs of 0. umbellatine, but, unfortunately, the larvae were neglected for a week and died. I had. however, two of the larvae blown and dried, and should be pleased to show them to any entomoloeist or botanist from Cape Colony who would help me to- identify them by sending me the moth. Pre- January 23, 1915..] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 47 rfessor Theobald, of Wye, to whom some of the larvae were also sent, succeeded better than I, and he told me that two of the larvae pupated, but after keeping the chrysalides for two years the imago failed to emerge. E. M. Holmes. The "Journal" of the Royal Horti- cultural Society (see pp. 10, 21, 34). — I am entirely in accord with Mr. Engle- heart, and, furthermore, it has long ap- peared to me that far greater prominence is -given in the Journal to the scientific side of horticulture than to the practical This is borne out by the number of the Journal received a short time since, and dated November, 1914. The names of four of our weekly horticultural journals are given as among those from which abstracts are made, but from three of them there is not a single note in that portion of the Journal referred to. Surely our English gardening papers are not so. far behind- hand that they contain nothing equal in interest, to British horticulturists to the " Rot of the Sweet Potato" and other matters from across i;he Atlantic? W. T. On the Parts of a Fruit Tree. -The .interesting article on p. 395, Vol. LVI., by Dr. Durham has introduced a subject of some im- portance. It is a nice problem to decide whether the art of pruning is a less scientific process in this country because of a lack of a better terminology in dealing with our fruit trees — • or from other causes. The old illusion that a carefully-trained tree is less productive than. a tree of a natural shape must ibe once again con- tradicted. The unnatural espalier is a disproof which is always with us, and I have seen the most elaborately trained trees bearing abundant • crops in a dozen French and Belgian gardens. But even if such trees aTe eschewed the pruning of the ordinary bush or pyramid in this country still leaves much to be desired, and it is prob- able that a more general recognition of the dif- ferent parts of fruit trees, and a -simple nomen- clature for them, would aid in this object. I venture, therefore, to put forward certain sug- gestions as to English equivalents for well-known French terms in the hope that some useful sug- gestions and criticisms may be elicited from ■readers of this paper. I will limit myself to the Pear and the Apple. The terms used for stock, scion, and the various grafting methods are clear and need no additions. The "bud" -or "eye" corresponds to the French "oeil," and no confusion need be experienced if these words are confined to the " wood " bud only. The annual growth, bearing leaves only (bour- geon), might be termed the "shoot," and if any side branches are produced on it they could be called "twigs" (bourgeon anticip<5). When this shoot exists at the end of a branch which is to be prolonged it could be termed an "ex- tension shoot " (rameau de prolongement). A strong shoot springing from a main stem (water- shoot) could be called a " gross shoot," or per- haps the French term gourmand might be re- tained. The use of tile word " charpente " for the main branches of the tree is helpful as a reminder that these are, as it were, the frame- work upon which the fruit is to be grown. For an English equivalent I think the word "branch " would serve, and if, as in a standard, side branches aTe developed, "main branches" and "side branches" can be distinguished. It now Temains to consider the smaller parts of the tree which proceed from these branches. First the " dard," or dart. This should be termed a "spur," a name which would be easy to associate with this growth. When it has de- veloped fruit buds it would become naturally a fruit spur." A "brindille" is but a dart of larger growth, and from the pruning point of view it might be included under the same term. A lambourde," then, would be also a fruit spur, as—agam from a pruning standpoint—the origin of a growth is of no importance when it has once developed fruit buds. We have arrived thus far by the use of good English words, . Much, whatever their botanical definition, could he here applied in a technical sense. Branch shoot, twig, spur and fruit-spur all would have adenmte meaning which could easily be learned ,^*v,We u?T t0 the " bourse," or enlarged reason, it ,s difficult to suggest a translation. The use of the word " purse," as in Warder's translation of Du Breuil's Book on Pruning, is not felicitous. I venture the suggestion of the word "support," seeing that this function was the reason for its peculiar structure. I must here parenthetically disagree from Dr. Durham in his statement that this is peculiar to the Pear, and several samples I have sent him, gathered from an Apple, will, I hope, be convinc- ing that this structure is common in the Apple. But when all is said upon this matter there will still remain the need of some authority for such terms, so that they may be accepted as official ; and for that purpose it would be desirable that the Royal Horticultural Society, so experienced in the art of foster-parentage, should publish a small work upon pruning in which such defini- tions could be laid down, and thus introduced they would doubtless be widely accepted. Edward A. Bunyard. SOCIETIES. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. January 19. — Both the number of exhibits and the attendance were again disappointingly small at the fortnightly meeting held on Tuesday last in the Vincent Square Hall, Westminster. Few novelties were forthcoming, and no award to a new variety was made either by the Floral Com- mittee or the Fruit and Vegetable Committee. The Orchid Committee awarded two First-class Certificates to novelties, and one Silver Flora and three Silver Banksian Medals to collections. Floral Committee. Present : H. B. May, Esq. (in the chair), Messrs. Chas. T. Druery, E. A. Bowks, W. J. Bean, G. Reuthe, C. E. Pearson, A. Turner, 0. Dixon, J. D'ckson, W. P. Thomson, Chas, E. Shea, J. W. Barr, B. Crisp, W. A. Bilney, J. F. McLeod, James Hudson, R. C. Reginald Nevill, C. Blick, Wm. Howe, J. Jennings, T. Steven- son, F. W. Harvey, H. J. Jones, E. H. Jen- kins and R. Hooper Pearson. Messrs. H. B. May and Sons, Edmonton, were awarded a Silver-gilt Banksian Medal for a collection of Epiphytic Ferns. The more notable plants were Niphobolus rupestris, Drymoglossum carnosum, D. piloselloides, Poly- podium vaccinifolium, Davallia heterophylla, Drynaria microptera, Drymoglossum spathula- tum and Asplenium obtusalobum. Mr. Amos Perry, Enfield, showed 150 varie- ties of hardy Polystichums and Scolopendriums, for which a Silver Flora Medal was awarded. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Enfield, ex- hibited Cyclamens, Carnations and a batch of Acacia platyptera. (Silver Banksian Medal.) Messrs. H. Cannell and Sons, Eynsford, again showed bunches of zonal-leaved Pelar- goniums, interspersed with small pot plants of Primula malacoides. Messrs. W. Cutbush and Son, Highgate, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for Car- nations, Alpines and Pelargoniums. Mr. R. F. Felton, Hanover Square, London, showed fruiting shoots of Solanum ciliatum, arranged in baskets and vases with sprays of Pittosporum and Smilax. The gipsy-red fruits are used for decorative purposes 'in the South of France and Italy, from whence the specimens exhibited were imported. Messrs. Allwood Bros., Wivelsfield, Hay- wards Heath, Were awarded a Bronze Flora Medal for an exhibit of Perpetual-flowering Carnations. Messrs. W. Wells and Co., Merstham, ex- hibited Carnation Pink Sensation and Antir- rhinum Nelrose. Messrs. Wills and Segar, South Kensington were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for decorative indoor flowering plants, including Begonias, Spiraeas, Cyclamens and Liliums. Mr. L. R. Russell, Richmond, again showed ornamental-leaved and berried shrubs (Silver Banksian Medal.) Messrs. Barr and Sons, King Street, Covent garden, displayed bulbs in flower. There were bright pans of Cyclamen ibericum, Narcissus cyclammeus, N. Bulbocodium monophyllum, Snowdrops, Hellebores and Crocuses Messrs. John Waterer and Crisp, Ltd., Wargrave, exhibited Alpines and dwarf shrubs on a rockery. Messrs. T. S. Ware-, Ltd., Feltham, showed hardy flowers, including splendid pans of Alpines, for which a Bronze Flora Medal was awarded. The blood-red Dianthus Atkinsonii was in bloom, as also were Veltheimia viridifolia, Iris stylosa and Lithospermum rosmarinifolium. Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons, Crawley, also ex- hibited a rockery with Alpines and shrubs. Mr. Clarence Elliott, Stevenage, displayed a few Alpines on a rockery formed with old grey sandstone. A large batch of Saxifraga burseri- ana and Gentiana acaulis in bloom were the principal features. Hardy flowers were also shown by Mr. James Box, Haywards Heath; Mr. G. Reuthe, Kes- ton, Kent (Bronze Banksian Medal) ; and the Misses Hopkins, Shepperton, who had a vase of the sweet-smelling Petasites fragrans. Orchid Committee. Present : J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in the chair, and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (hon. secre- tary), Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart., Sir Harry J. Veitch. C. J. Lucas, Gurney Wilson, W. H. White, T. Armstrong, J. Charlesworth, A. Dye S. W. Flory, F. Sander, R. G. Thwaites, J. e' Skill, C. H. Curtis, W. Cobb, F. M. Ogilvie, R. A. Rolfe, F. J. Hanbury, and W. Bolton. AWABDS. First-class Certificate. Brasso-Cattleya Cliftonii albens [B.-O. Digby- ano-Mossiae Queen Alexandra x O. Trianae alba) from J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Bracken- hurst, Tunbridge Wells (gr. Mr. J. Davis). A perfect flower of large size and a model in shape, white with a slight lilac tint on the reverse of the sepals, and a pale yellow disc. The broad petals and well-rounded front to the lip are wavy at the edge. Dendrobium Triumph (Dalhousieanum X thrysiflorum) from J. Gurney Fowler, Esq. A beautiful and interesting hybrid, with a. raceme of five large, white flowers, the labellnm having in the centre a band of reddish-purpie colour extending from one side to the other and not in isolated blotches as in D. Dal- housieanum, to which species this new hybrid closely approaches. But evidence of the other parent may be found in the flowers, in the ten- dency to thicken in the lower parts of the pseudo-bulbs, and in the thicker and more sparsely distributed foliage. GENERAL EXHIBITS. J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., showed his fine form of Odontioda Latona (see fig. 15) (Oda. Bradshawiae X Odm. crispo-Harryanvm), which received a First-class Certificate on December 3, 1912. The ground colour is white heavily blotched with claret-red, the margin tinted with rose colour. Odontonia Lairesseae, and a selec- tion of hybrids of remarkably sturdy growth were also showily His Grace the Duke of Marlborough Blen- heim Palace (gr. Mr. Hunter), sent Cypripe- dium Euphemia (Euryades x Earl of Tanker- ville), a bold flower nearest to C. Euryades; and C. Iona (bellatulum X Fairriennum). Sir M. E. M. Buller, Broomhill, Spratton Northants {gr. Mr. Kench), sent Sophro- Cattleya Wellesleyae, Broomhill variety a moely shaped red flower with a slight roso shade. Baron Bruno Schroder, The Dell, Engle- field Green (gr Mr. J. E. Shill), sent Cattleya Inanae Dorothy, a very large flower of per- fect shape, the petals being almost as broad as long Sepals and petals lilac-pink, the front ot the lip ruby-purple, disc orange. Messrs. Armstrong and Brown, Tunbridgo Wells, were awarded a Silver Flora Modal for m extensive group in which the main feature was a fine lot of Cattleya Maggie Raphael alba, some ot the plants being the same as were shown at tno last meeting, and well indicating the last- ing quality of the flowers. Among new hvbrids were Odontioda Verdnm (Odm. harvengtense X U Noezlianal, with well-formed red flowers on yellow ground: Cyprijiedium Pyrrha (Ohamber- laimarmm x Druryi), with roee-spotted lip and CTeemsh dorsal sepal, with blaokiah band and b. Monte (nitens X Fairrieanum). 48 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 23, 1915. Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbndge, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a croup in which Cymbidium Schlegelii, C. Gottianum and C. Alexanderi were effective. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co. staged an effec- tive group, for which a Silver Banksian Medal was awarded. The best plants were Cattleya Percivaliana grandiflora, large and of rich colour, and Odontoglossum Artemis, a handsome flower, profusely spotted with deep rose, but of which'no recoTd of parentage was given. Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for an excel- lent group, among the most noteworthy plants being Lycaste macrophylla leucoptera, a very pretty and distinct form ; Cypripedium Ypres, a bold flower of good substance, and various other good Cypripediums ; the handsome white Coelo- gyne Moorei and the profuse-flowering C. lenti- ginosa. Messrs. E. H. Davidson and Co., Orchid Dene, Twyford, showed a very fine form of Cattleya Maggie Raphael alba, with white sepals and petals and rose-coloured lip veined with yellow. Also the singular little Odontoglossum Fletcherianum nigrescens (cirrhosum X Ed- wardii). with nearly black flowers with whitish disc and column. Messrs. Flory and Black, Slough, showed Cymbidium Floryi (grandiflorum X eburneo- Lowianum), with the ornamental growth of C. grandiflorum (Hookerianum) and the emerald- green tinted fleshy sepals to the flowers as in that species. The" petals are white tinged with green, and the labellum white with light-red spotting inside the margin. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present : Jos. Cheal, Esq. (in the chair), Messrs. W. Bates, Geo. Woodward, Jessie Wil- lard, Edwin Beckett, Ed. A. Bunyard, H. J. Wright, A. Bullock, G. Reynolds, J. Jaques, G. Wythes, Owen Thomas, P. C. M. Veitch, W. Poupart, J. Davis and A. R. Allan. Several collections of dessert Apples were staged with the object of determining which varieties, in the opinion of the Committee, were he best late keepers. The Committee's report *as not made public, but we understand that it was for the purposes of the Council. Few will be surprised to learn that Cox's Orange Pippin received the highest number of votes. Messrs. Veitch and Son, Exeter, showed a collection which included Allen's Everlasting, Belle de Boskoop, D'Arcy Spice, Diamond Jubi- lee and Blue Pearmain. Hon. Vicary Gibbs, Aldenham House, Elstree (gr. Mr. Ed. Beckett), showed good dishes of Cox's Orange Pippin, Ribston Pippin, Adams's Pearmain, King of Tompkins County, Blen- heim Pippin, Northern Spy and Grange's Pear- main. Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons, Crawley, exhi- bited such varieties as Fearn's Pippin, Brad- dick's Nonpareil, Roundway Magnum Bonum and Boston Russett. In another part of the hall Messrs. Cheal showed splendid fruits of Apples Crawley Beauty and Encore. Messrs. Geo. Bunyard and Co., Maidstone, staged highly coloured fruits of New Bess Pool. W. Astor, Esq., Clivedon, Taplow, showed a seedling Tomato raised from Hasting x Sun- rise. The Committee recommended the variety for trial at Wisley. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID. .January 7. — Committee present : Rev. J. Crombleholme (in the chair), Messrs. R. Ash- worth, J. C. Cowan, J. Cypher, J. Evans, A. J. Keeling, D. McLeod. W. J. Morgan, C. Parker, W. Shackleton, H. Thorp, Z. A. Ward, and H. Arthur (secretary). R. Ashworth, Esq., Newchurch (gr. Mr. Gilden), staged a group for which a Silver-gilt Medal was awarded. The exhibit included Odontoglossums in variety, Cypripedium Lee- anum Gratrixae, C. L. Lavestonianum, C. Minos Youngii, Laelia anceps Sanderiana, L.-C. Bletch- leyensis, Cattleva O'Brieniana alba, Masdevallia Schroderiana, M. tovarensis and Oncidium vari- cosum var. "Buttercup." Mrs. R. Le Doux, West Derby (gr. Mr. J. W. Fletcher), was awarded a Silver Medal for a group in which Odontoglossum Mrs. Hattie Barreiss, 0. Dora, 0. Christopher Geddies, Cypripedium Queen Alexandra, C. Rossettii, and Laelio-Cattleya Nelus " Marlfield " var. were noticed. Rev. J. Crombleholme, Clayton-le-Moors (gr. Mr. E. Marshall), was also awarded a Silver Medal for an interesting group of about 30 Cypripedium seedlings, three of which received Awards. Col. J. Rutherford, M.P., Blackburn (gr. Mr. Lupton), staged a group of well-grown Cypri- pediums, a Silver Medal being awarded. F. A. Hindley, Esq., Great Horton, Brad- ford, was also awarded a Silver Medal for a group of Cypripediums. H. J. Bromilow, Esq., Rann Lea (gr. Mr. W. J. Morgan), staged Seedling Cypripediums. Messrs. Cypher and Sons, Cheltenham, and Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded Silver Medals for groups ; and Mr. W. Shackleton, Bradford, was awarded a Bronze Medal. AWARDS. First- Class Certificates. Cypripedium Lady Evelyn James (C. Leeanuvi Lavertonianum X C. aureuni virginale). Shown by the Hon. Robert James. C. Lathamianum var. ''Cardinal Mercier," a large red flower, excelling all others of the type. up to the present time. A discussion followed in which Messrs. R. Cory, J. T. West, J. B. Riding, and others took part. 15. — odontioda latona. (See p. 47.) Raised and exhibited by the Rev. J. Cromble- holme. Awards of Merit. C. Hassallii " St. Mary's " var., and C. Aetaeus " St. Mary's " var. Raised and ex- hibited by the Rev. J. Crombleholme. C. x Richmond (parentage unknown). From the Hon. Robert James. Odontioda Rossendale (Ceres X Charles- worthii) and Oncidium varicosum var. " Butter- cup." Both from R. Ashworth, Esq. Award of Appreciation. Calanthe Jezebel (atro - rubens X Wm. Murray). From the Hon. Robert James. GLASGOW FRUIT TRADE BENEVOLENT. January 11. — The annual meeting of this society was held in Glasgow on the 11th inst. The President, Mr. John H. Thomson, remarked upon the favourable condition of the society, which now numbers 194 members, an increase upon former years. No claims had been made by the members, but a substantial sum had been subscribed to assist others belonging to the trade. The reports of the clerk and the treasurer were considered satisfactory. A sum of £1,220 stands to the credit of the society, and this in- cludes an addition of about £116 made during the year. Mr. John H. Thomson was re-elected President; Mr. J. Gardiner, Vice-President; Mr. Jas. Russell, treasurer ; and Mr. H. S. Girvan, collector and clerk. UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT. January 11. — The monthly meeting of this society was held at the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall, Westminster, on Monday, the 11th inst., Mr. Arthur Bedford in the chair. Five new members were elected. It was announced that the sick pay for the month on the ordinary side amounted to £71 6s. 4d., and on the State section £57 12s. 10d., with maternity claims £4 10s. The quarterly payments to chronic sick members amounted to £19 8s. NATIONAL DAHLIA January 13.— A Dahlia conference was held under the auspices of the National Dahlia Society on the 13th inst., at Carr's Restaurant, Strand. The President, Mr. Reginald Cory, occupied the chair. The following papers were read :— " The Evolution of the Cactus Dahlia," by Mr. Jas Stredwick. and " The Culture of the Col- lerette Dahlia," by Mr. J. T. West. The paper submitted by Mr. Stredwick was of a descrip- tive character, dealing with the evolution of the flower from the advent of D. Juarezii, through the older types of Constance and following the course of the flower through its varied phases WINDSOR, ETON AND DISTRICT ROSE. December 19. — At the annual meeting of this society held recently at Windsor the Rev. H. "Tower presided. The com- mittee's annual report stated that last year's show attracted an increased num- ber of exhibitors. In the premier class for nurserymen, in which King George's Cup was offered, there were eleven en- ■ tries as compared with eight in 1913, and altogether forty-five more exhibits were staged than in the previous year, being an increase of 12 per cent. Lady Mary Arkwright offered to replace the cup which was won outright, and Mrs. Bevil Fortescue offered another cup (making two from that lady), whilst Mr. A. L. 1 Cook has offered a cup for Sweet Peas. The balance-sheet shows a total income of £236 10s. Id., and a surplus, after meeting all ex- penses, of £9 4s. ; the assets include £100 Leeds Corporation 3 per cent, stock. The I officers were re-elected and the committee ap- pointed. It was decided to hold this year's I show on Saturday, June 26. SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL. January 13. — The annual meeting of thel Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society was! held on the 13th inst., Mr. D. W. Thom-1 son presiding. The report of the committeej stated that there had been a considerable de-l crease in membership during the year and an! increase in the funds of £14 lis. 9d. Regarding the proposed transference of thai East of Scotland College of Agriculture to DregJ horn, Mr. W. H. Massie, the representative ofl the society on the College board, said that thel governors"had that day decided that they could not accept the proposals of the Board of Agri-J culture regarding the transference. The prinj cipal argument against it was that, it would take the College away from close proximity to the University. Nevertheless, their aim was not tol produce professors ; it was to give instruction in agriculture and horticulture in the most praoa tical way possible. I The report was adopted. The meeting dej cided to hold both a spring and autumn show this year. Lord Elphinstone was re-elected presi- dent and Mr. J. W. M'Hattie vice-president. 1 January 23, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 49 GARDENERS' ROYAL BENEVOLENT INSTITUTION. Annual Election or Pensioners. January 21. — The results of the election of pensioners to the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution are obtainable as these pages are being passed for press, and we are enabled to publish the names of the suc- cessful candidates. The chair was occupied by Sir Harry Veitch, chairman and treasurer, who has presided at these meetings for many years past. The annual report was read by the secre- tary, Mr. G. J. Ingram. iThe chairman, referring to some of the principal items, touched on the more important details in the balance-sheet, and drew attention to the fact that all charitable institutions have been adversely affected by the war. RESULT OF ELECTION. No. of Age. Votes. Crossman, Walter 67 4,861 Smith, John 72 4,590 Fornachon, Emile 65 4,174 Hussey, James 67 3,960 Witty, John H 64 3,896 Ellis, John E 66 3,886 Lockyer, Mary 81 3,840 Reed, Frank 71 3,832 FaiT, William 69 3,659 Stirling, Mary A 64 3,637 Murray, George 77 3,604 Spivey, Catherine 69 3,456 Howard, Anne 64 3,398 Lee, James 65 3,302 Jolliffe, John 73 3,290 Following the declaration of the poll, Mr. Arthur W. Sutton promised a donation of £20 in favour of James Churchyard, aged 63. Mr. George Monro made a contribution of £10 for the benefit of Jane Langdon, aged 75. Tlie Chairman announced that one annuitant having died since the ballot paper was printed, the Committee had elected Mary Ann Hop- good to fill the vacancy. MARKETS, LAW NOTE. MARKET SMALL LANDHOLDERS AND GARDENING. An important point regarding the liability 01 a small landholder who has converted his hold- ing into a market garden and built a house, shop and glasshouses on the land has been de- cided in Scotland by the Court of Session. The question arose through the assessor having entered in the valuation roll a value of £15, representing the yearly value of a house, shop, and glasshouses at Patna, Ayr. The valua- tion committee of the County of Ayr up- held the _ assessor's valuation, holding that the premises were not improvements for agricultural purposes and must be en- tered on the roll separately. An appeal was taken by the small landholder, Stewart Blane, Dawnieston Cottage, Patna, with the result that the Court of Session has sustained the valuation, Lord Johnston stating that if the appellant had confined himself to agriculture, his house would have escaped valuation. His lordship said that it might be competent for him under his lease and the Landholders Act to utilise his land for market gardening, but it was not in his opinion agriculture in the sense of the statute, more particularly when it was considered that the tenant of a market garden did not come under the category of a landholder, and a new holder could not be registered in respect of a market garden. The facts stated in the case were that Mr Blane occupies a small holding of over two acres at an annual rent of £5 Is. 6d., and is registered as a small landholder. He has erected a dwell- ing house and shop on the holding at a cost of £206, and has also erected three glasshouses for Tomato culture, part of the land "being used as ■ a market garden. COVENT GARDEN, January W. We cannot accept any responsibility for 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 represent the prices on any pnrticuhir day, but only the general average for the week preceding the date of our report. The prices depend upon the quality of the sa-nples, 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. -Eds. Cut Flowers, &c.: s.d. Average Wholesale Prices. Arums(Richardias) per doz. Azalea, white, per doz. bunches. . Camellias, white, per doz. blooms Carnations, per dozen blooms, best American varieties — smaller, per doz. bunches. . — Carola (crim- son), extralarge — Malmaison.per doz. blooms pink Chrys anthenium, specimen blooms, white, per doz. — yellow per doz. — white, medium per doz. — Spray, white, per doz. bun... Daffodils, single, per doz. bun. Eucharis, per doz. Gardenias, per hox of 15 and 18 blooms.. Hyacinths, Ronnn, 12's, per doz. bunches Lilac, white, per doz. sprays — mauve Liliumlongiflorum, per d<»z., long — — short — lancifolium album, long . . short . . rubrum, per doz., long — short . . Lily-of -the-Valley, per dozeu bunches : — extra special .. — special .. — ordinary s.d. 4 0- 5 0- 2 0 2 0- 18 0-2 4 0 2 0- 2 G 12 0-15 0 16-20 2 0-30 8 0-10 0 3 0- 2 0- 2 0- 10 0-1 3 0- 3 0-40 6 0- 3 0- 4 0- 5 0- 4 0- 4 6- 3 0 ■ 2 6 2 0 1 0- 15 0- 1'.' 0 9 0. 18 0 14 0 in ii s.d. s.d- Marguerites, per doz. bunches . . Orchids, per doz. : — Cattleya — Cypripedium.. — Odontoglossum ciispum Pelargoniums, per doz. bunches, double scarlet 10 0-12 0 — White, per doz. bunches . . — — Poinsettias, per doz. blooms .. Roses : per dozen blooms, Bride — Kaiserin Au- gusta Victoria — LadyHillingdon — Liberty — Madame A. Chatenay — Melody — My Maryland.. — Niphetqs — Prince de Bul- garie — Richmond .. 7 0-90 — Sunburst . . — — — White Crawford — — Spiraea, white, per doz. bunches.. 8 0-10 0 Tuberoses, on stems, per doz. '.. 0 9 — — short, per doz. 0 6-08 Tulips, bronze, per doz. bunches.. 10 0-15 0 — pink „ ..15 0-21 0 — scarlet ,, .. 9 0-12 0 — white „ .. 9 0 12 0 — yellow „ ..10 0-15 0 — double orange, per doz. bun... 2L 0-24 0 pink ,, ..21 0 24 0 red „ .. 24 0 — Violets,English,per doz. bunches . . 16-20 — Princess of Wales,doz.bun. 3 6-40 White Heather, per doz. bunches .. 9 0-12 0 French Flowers. Anemones, pink, per doz. bun. .. 3 0-36 Mimosa, per hunch 0 10- 1 0 Narcissus, Paper White, per doz. bunches ... 16-20 — Soleil d'Or . . 2 6-30 Ranunculus, scarlet and orange, per bunch .. Violets, single, per doz. bunches. . — Parma, per large bunch .. Anemone de Caen, per doz. bun . . — fulgens, per doz. bunches . . Daffodils, per doz. bunches Guernsey and Scllly Flowers. s.d. s.d. doz. FreeBia, per bunches Narcissus, Paper White, per doz. bun — Soleil d'Or, per doz. bun. 10-16 16-20 3 0-36 s.d. s.d. 2 0- 3 0 3 0-40 4 0-50 Cut Foliage, &c: Average Wholesale Prices. 6 0- : 2 0-40 i.d. s.d. | s. d. s. d. Fern, French, per doz. bunches.. 0 6- 0 S Honesty, per doz. bun 10 012 0 Lichen Moss, per doz. boxes . . 10 0-12 0 Moss, gross bunches Myrtle, doz. bnchs. English. small- leaved — French, per doz. bunches. Pernettia, well berried, per doz. bunches .. Adia ntum Fern (Maidenhair) best, per doz. bunches Agrostis (Fairy Grass), per doz. bunches Asparagus plurao- sus, long trails, per half-do?en 16-20 — medium, doz. bun<-lu-8 .. 12 0. IS 0 - Sprengeri 6 0-12 0 Carnati n foliage, doz. bunches 3 0-50 Crot-oi loliage, doz. bunches 12 0-15 0 Cycns leaves, jier rioz 2 0-90 Daffodil foliage, per doz. hun. . . 2 6 3 0 Eula ia japoniea, per bunch 10-16 Remarks.— There is a shortage of many varieties i.f cut flowers, but the supplies of Tulips and Daffodils 0 0 — CO - 10-13 Pittosporum, per doz. bunches . . Ruscus, per doz. bunches Smila\, per bunch of 6 trails , n- 6 0-90 10-13 are increasing, and prices for these flowers are de- creasing. The Tulips are in excellent condition, and there are fine samples of the double variety Couronne de Murillo. Among the single varieties are La Reine, Yellow Prince, Rosine Salvator, Prince of Austria and Thomas Moore. Lilium Harrisii is scarce, and on one day prices for this flower rose from 3s. 6d. to 5s. Lily-of-the-Valley also was verv scarce at the beginning of the week, and realised higher prices than during Christmas week. Carnations are rather poor in quality, and the season for Chrysanthemums is nearly over. The only variety of Roses now in demand is Richmond, of which there are fine blooms. Only small consignments of flowers are arriving from Guernsey and Scilly ; white Freesia is offered in good condition. Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices. s.d Apples— — English, cook- ing, per bus. . . 5 0 — Nova Scotia, per brl. .. 14 0 — United States, per barrel . . 16 0 — Ca lifornian, per box .. 6 6 — Oregon, per box 6 6 Apricots(Cape), per box Bananas, bunch : — Medium — X-medium — Extra — Double X — Giant .. — Red, per ton .. „. — Jamaica, p. ton £12 Cobnuts, per lb. .. 0 5- 0 5| Cranberries.per case 5 0-10 6 Grapes : Black Ali- cante, per lb... 16-26 — Almeria, per barrel of 3 doz. lbs 16 0-21 0 — Erjglish, Gros Colmar, per lb. 16-26 s.d. 6 0 24 0 45 0 ■ 8 0 10 0 5 0-70 7 0 — 8 0 — 9 0 — 10 0 — 10 0-12 0 £20 - Grapes: Continued — — Muscat of Alexandria .. 6 0 Canon Hall, per lb. 3 0- 18 0 2 0 Lychees, perdz. lbs. Mandarins, per case Nectarines, Cape, per box Nuts, Almonds, per bag — Brazils, pr.cwt. 44 0- — Chestnuts, per bag .. .. 14 0- — Coconuts, per 100 — Walnuts, dried, per cwt. Oranges, per case — California seedless Peaches, Cape, per box Pears, American per barrel — Californian per case . . 14 0- Plums, Cape, per box .. .. 6 0 8 0. 58 0' 16 0- 36 0 8 0- 15 0- 5 0 IS 0' 6 0 13 0 12 0 64 0 56 0 21 0 22 0 ■72 0 32 0 17 0 8 0 22 0 18 0 S 0 Remarks.— There are moderate supplies of the follow- ing English Apples :— Bismarck, Dumelow's Seedling (Wellington), Bramley's Seedling and Lane's Prince Albert. There are large shipments of Apples from abroad awaiting delivery, owing to a shortage of labour at the docks. The following Pears are avail- able :— Keiffers, Glou Morceau, Winter Nelis and Easter Beurre. Pineapples have been less plentiful this week. Owing to the absence of Grapes from Belgium, the home supplies, which are limited, have increased m value. Apricots, Peaches, Plums and Nectarines are arriving from Cape Colony. The supplies of Canary Tomatos are limited, and Cucumbers have not been sa plentiful during the past week. E. H. R., Covent Gar- den, January SO. Vegetables: Average Wholesale Prices. Asparagus, English, per bundle — Paris Green, per bundle Beans, French, per ID Beetroot, per bushel Brussels Sprouts, per $ bus. Cabbages, per tally Carrots, per cwt. . . Cauliflowers, per doz. Celeriac, per doz. . . Celery, perdoz. bun. Chicory, Belgian, per lb Cucumbers, per doz. Eschallots, per £ sieve .. Garlic, per lb. Globe artichokes, per doz. Herbs, per doz. bunches Horseradish, Eng- lish, per bundle B.d. s.d. 5 0- 6 0 3 0- 3 6 2 6- 3 6 3 0- 3 6 1 3- 6 C- 2 6- 1 6 s o 3 0 16-26 26-S6 10 0-18 0 0 3- 6 0- 0 4 9 0 2 6- 0 2- 3 0 0 3 4 6- 5 0 2 0- 6 0 s.d. 1 6- 1 i 0 10- 0 10- 0 Lfl 8 0' 4 0 2 0- Leeks, per dozen .. Lettuce, Cabbage and Cos, per doz. Mushrooms, culti- vated, per lb. . . — Buttons Mustard and Cress, per dozen pun- nets Onions, per cwt. .. Parsnips, per cwt. Peas, per lb. Potatos, new, per lb Rhuharb, York- shire, per doz. Savoys, per tally . . Seakale, per doz. punnets Spinach, per bus. .. Tomatos, English, per doz. lbs. . . — — Teneriffe, per bundle.. .. IS 0- Turnip, per cwt. .. 2. 6- Turnip tops, p. bag 1 6 Watercress, p. doz. 0 6' 10 0 4 6 2 6 10 0-1 4 0 1 2 7 0 21 0 3 0 2 0 0 8 Remarks.— Large consignments of Belgian Chicory have reached the market this week. The supplies of Eng- lish and French Asparagus are small, and Peas and Beans are very scarce. Potatos are beginning to arrive from Teneriffe, Fair quantities of Mushrooms and Sea- kale are arriving daily. Trade is moderately good. E. II. R., Covent Garden, January SO. Potatos. Dunbara -■ Up-to* Langworthy Kent Lincolns— t'p-to-date a. d. s.d. 6 3-56 5 3-56 4 6-49 4 3-49 Lincolns King Edward . . British Queen .. Evergood . . Blackland Scotch, Up-to-date King Edward t.d. 8V. i ;t- ;. u i :i- 4 i; :.i ;>- 4 :: 3 ti- 4 II 4 0- i ;t 4 0-46 Ki:m\uks Trade is still firm. Arrivals aro good and ^!"rks in London are still large. Edward J. Newborn* Covent Garden and St. Pancraf, January SO. 50 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jaxuaky 23, 1915. ©bituar\\ James Baillie.— Mr. James Baillie, traveller to Messrs. Drummond Brothers. Leith, was killed recently by a motor accident on the Edinburgh and Glasgow road near Broxburn. Henry Hutchings.— The funeral took place on Wednesday, the 13th inst., at Hillingdon Cemetery, near Uxbridge, of Mr. Henry Huich- ings, a retired nurseryman, of Uxbridge. Mr. Hutchings, who was 77 years of age. was a native of Rickmansworth, but had lived in Uxbridge for more than 50 years. In his early- days he was employed by "Mr. Joseph Lowe, and afterwards was foreman at Messrs. Turner and Sons' nurseries at St. Andrews. Later he established a nursery at Uxbridge. from which he retired about five years ago, after being in business for thirty years. Dr. John Nisbet. -The Quarterly Journal of Forestry announces the death of Dr. John Nisbet, who, in various ways, did much for the advancement of scientific forestry. Most of his life was spent in the Forest Service of Burmah, but in periods of furlough he made important contributions to the literature of forestry. He brought out a new and much en- larged edition of Broion's Forester, and pro- duced volumes on Trees in their Silviculture! Aspects, Studies in Forestry, Our Forests and Woodlands, and a new edition of Evelyn's Sylva. He was one of the pioneers of forestry educa- tion and he delivered a course of lectures in Oxford in the early nineties. On his retirement from service in the East he was appointed lecturer in forestry in the West of Scotland College of Agriculture, Glasgow. More recently he acted as forestry expert to the Board of Agriculture for Scotland and to the Scotch Ad- visory Forestry Committee. ENQUIRY. Dynamite Wokk. — Will some reader give me the name and address of a firm which has experi- ence in the use of dynamite for horticultural pur- poses? The work -which I contemplate is the breaking-up of a hard pan in the subsoil of a piece of land now under grass. I wish to discover (1) whether the use of dynamite is suitable for this purpose, and (2) how the cost of dynamiting — and of the preliminary ploughing up of the grass land — compares with that of trenching. F . K. LorrcjpordtnUM. Black Hamburgh Vines : F. G. B. The soft- ness of the wood is probably due to the pre- sence of stagnant water at the roots. Over- haul the border to ascertain if the drainage is perfect. Book on Orchids : M. R. Orchids and Their Cultivation, by James O'Brien, Present-day Gardening Series, price Is. 9d., post free; Orchids: Their Culture and Management, by W. Watson and H. J. Chapman, price 25s. 6d."; obtainable from our publishing department. Bouvardia Diseased : W. T. The plant is suf- fering from chlorosis, or loss of green colour, due to an excess of carbonate of lime in the soil. Spray the plants once a week with 1 ounce of sulphate of iron dissolved in IS gallons of water. It is also advisable to sprinkle crystals of the same substance on the soil of the pots. Chrysalis in Decayed Wood : L. C, Hants. Nests of the leaf-cutter bee, which was de- scribed and illustrated in the issue for August 15, 1914, pp. 136, 137. • Cineraria Leaves Curling : R. P. The trouble may be due to aphides. If you suspect disease send a specimen for investigation. Cyaniding Dormant Peach Trees : M. E. S. It is safe to cyanide Peach trees when dor- mant, but you should use phosphoric, instead of sulphuric, acid. (See Card. Chron., July 25, 1914, p. 66.) Genera of Coniferae : Puzzled. According to Masters in Genera of Toxaceae and Coniferae the genus Thuya comprises the sections Euthuya, Maerothuya and Biota of Bentham and Hooker. It is characterised by its flat- tened branchlets usually in one horizontal plane, the presence of dimorphic foliage, monoecious flowers, decussate stamens, 3-4 anther-cells, simple pollen ; female cones soli- tary at the ends of the branches, ultimately pendulous (except in Biota), oblong or ovoid, rarely globose, ripening in the first year ; the 4-6 scales decussate, slightly imbricate, oblong, acute, not peltately expanded as in Cupressus, the central ones fertile, or (in Biota) the lower ones. Thuiopsis dolabrata .of Siebold and Zuccarini and T. borealis of Carriere belong more properly to Cupressus ; whilst Thuiopsis Standishii is a true Thuya and the Japanese representative of the North-west American T. gigantea. Libocedrus is very nearly allied to Thuya, the distinguishing characteristics being found in the four-sided male flowers, in the erect cones, the smaller number of scales, oi which the central pair are fertile, and in the frequent coalescence of the two uppermost scales into a vertical septum. The seeds, more- over, are solitary and winged obliquely. The cotyledons are two. Cupressus comprises trees witli polymorphic foliage and monoecious flowers. The male flowers are at the end of the branches, the anther-scales pointed, pollen simple. The female flowers are solitary at the ends of short branches, rarely in groups, and ripening in the second year of their formation. The cones require two years to ripen: they are globular or oblong, the central scales alone fertile and bearing two or many seeds. The seeds are winged on both sides. Thuia, Thuiopsis, Thuja and Thyjopsis are synonyms of Thuya. Hamamelis mollis.— R. This Chinese Witch Hazel can be seen to perfection at the present time in the Buxus collection near the Tem- perate House at Kew. The plants are dotted about amongst the specimens of Box, and the dark-green foliage of the latter forms a good background to the bright yellow flowers of the Hamamelis. The blossoms are borne in small, sessile clusters on the bare branches, and consist individually of four narrow, strap-shaped petals, curving at the tips, and enclosed in a small, ruby-coloured calyx. They have a sweet scent, reminiscent of Daphne or Honeysuckle, which is more strongly pro- nounced after the flowers are cut. The dark- green leaves are ovate in shape, with prominent veins, and covered with tiny hairs on both surfaces. The plants in question were in flower in December, and will continue in bloom for some weeksi yet, unless severe weather is experi- enced. This Hamamelis is a welcome winter plant for a sheltered position with a dark background, as also is H. arborea, which blooms in February or March, and bears deeper-coloured flowers, with twisted petals, and a more prominent calyx. H. mollis forms a compact bush, some 6 feet or so in height, tvhile H. arborea is a faster grower, reaching a height of upwards of 12 feet. Impatiens Holstii : T. C. Impatiens Holstii may be used for summer bedding in gardens in the southern counties, and the plants will flower freely all the season until destroyed by frost. Seed sown at the beginning of March will furnish good plants for planting; out at about the end of May. The plant branches freely and grows from 18 inches to 2 feet in height. The flowers of the species are a glow- ing vermilion colour, but there are varieties ranging from white with a red eye to rose, pink, carmine, scarlet, and violet. German seed houses have, in the past, offered seed of all these colours separately ; now a few seed establishments in this country offer seeds of I. Holstii and a rose or pink variety. A batch of seedlings usually shows variation in colour, and if it is desired to have a bed! or beds of one sort, it is necessary to pro- pagate the stock from cuttings. Manure for Fruit Trees : H. N. A standard mixture of artificial manures, which in many cases has given good results, consists of four parts of superphosphate, two parts of sulphate of ammonia, and two parts of muriate of potash, applied at the rate of 8cwt. per acre early in May. About 31b. per cordon would be suitable. In some cases, where organic manure is required, trees do not readily re- spond to inorganic manure, and in that case » good form of Peruvian guano might do more good, though this material is not equal to- farmyard manure. Moss on Lawns : H. N. Try the effect of a dressing of superphosphate as recommended on p. 31. Names of Fruits : Rowland Robbins. Pear Josephine de Malines. — Gardener, Herts. Court of Wick— F. Smith. Orange Goff. — R. D. Greenhorn. 1, Newton Wonder; 2, Warner's King; 3. Winter Hawthornden; 4,. Kentish Fillbasket ; 5, Mere de Menage ; 6, Roundway Magnum Bonum ; 7, Mannington's Pearmain ; 8, Pear Beigamotte Esperen. Names of Plants : F . H. Chrysanthemum Mrs. William Filkins. — /. P. Polygala myrtifolia grandiflora. — T. A. H. Dendrobium speci- osum. — S. 0. Wang ford. Acacia podalyrii- folia, an Australian species. (See Gard. Chron., January 4, 1908, fig. 11.)— B. Bur- roughs. Ceanothus thyrsiflorus. Seed Pods of Rose Plants : Rose Seed. You evidently carried out the work of pollination too late, for even on plants out- of-doors the pods of seed were ripe before Christmas, and yet you state that on your plants they have not yet changed colour. We should advise you to keep the plants in a tem- perate house with the pods upon them, and they should ripen in a few weeks if fertile. This would be better than removing the green pods now, for they would probably rot and the seed would not mature. Selections of Flowers : North Devon. In enumerating a list of varieties of flowers which may be regarded as the best of their kinds it must be remembered that local conditions have a great influence on growth, and par- ticularly in the case of annuals. The fol- lowing lists should suit your purpose : — 1, Chrysanthemums for flowering in the open ground at the end of September : Almirante, Debutante, Dorothy Ashley, Leslie, Polly and Betty Spark. As we are not sure that the two first named are yet in commerce Goacher's Crimson and Countess or Roi des Blancs are good substitutes and similar in colour. The same varieties would do well in pots, but the plants require a liberal treatment as the blooms are opening, for at that time there is consider- able danger of the soil drying quickly, and drought at the Toots soon causes the colour of the flowers to fade. If you desire varieties in pots for disbudding you might select Cranford Pink, Cranford Yellow, Dolores, La Pactole, Goacher's Crimson and Mrs. J. W. Scott. 2, Sweet Peas for cutting : E. F. Felton, Mrs. Cuthbertson, Elfrida Pear- son, Thomas Stevenson, Princess Mary and Constance Hinton; if you desire another pink variety we would suggest Duplex. 3, Six Roses for furnishing cut blooms : Madame Abel Chatenay, Richmond, Lady Hillingdon, Mrs. J. Laing, Frau Karl Druschki and Hugh Dickson. 4. Six Perpetual-flowering Carna- tions : Enchantress, Supreme, Mrs. C. W. Ward, May Day, British Triumph and White Wonder. If a scarlet variety is desired choose Scarlet Glow and of the salmon-pinks select Ladv Northcliffe. Communications Received — A. B.— H. B.— F. C. — E B— T. H.— S. O.— G. B.— A. G.— E. St. H,— A Dorset Gardener— W. I.— L. D. K.— W. R.— Dr. H. E. D.— M. M— Dr. W. B. H.— G. J. G.^J. Y.— H. 1..—3. W.— R. G.— L. J. C— C. K.— E. B.— C. F. L.— H. S— L. P.— G. S.— Dr. A. J.— M. B.— B.— A. J.— T. E. W.— J. T— E. H.— A. S — H. N. E.— A. O.—J. C. — R. P.— R. F. Jajtoary 30, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 51 THE (Barumrrs' Cljrnnirk No. 1,466.— SATURDAY, JANUARY SO, 1915. CONTENTS. Acnistus Miersii -. 58 Orchid notes and glean- American Sweet Pea ings— 57 Laelio-Cattleya Lydia 52 Paeony La Lorraine 56 Apples, Russian .. 60 Panama hats, fibre used Apples, selection of, for in making 57 amateurs 60 Pan am a- Pacific exhibi- Benevolent Institution, tion, the 57 Gardeners' Royal 60 Pettigrew, Mr. W., British Guiana, vege- appointment of 57 5S "Pour nos amis franyais Calcium cyananride 58 et beiges" Rainfall, the 59 60 Ohrysanthemum James Rosary, the — Stredwiek 52 Pernetiana Roses 52 Colour-grouping for Roses, late 60 small gardens .. 51 Silver-leaf disease 56 Conifers, notes on — Societies — Cupressus maeroearpa 53 Horticultural Club . . C2 Cupressus Macnabiana Royal Hort. (Scientific at Kew 53 Committee) i;n Edinburgh Royal Botanic Royal Meteorological 62 Society Guild .. 57 Scottish Hort 62 Fatsia japonica for town Timber, to preserve 58 gardens 60 War items 57 Grass in recently-flooded Week's work, the— areas 60 Apiary, the 55 International Botanical Flower garden, the . . 54 Congress :,ii Fruits under glass 55 Kelp industry in the Hardy fruit garden, the 54 Highlands, the 58 Kitchen garden, the .. 55 King, Air. David, pre- Orchid houses, the . . 54 sentation to 57 Plants under glass 54 Manure heap, the ILLU 58 3TR Wild flowers in the City ATIONS. 60 Acnistus Miersii . . 58 Chrysanthemum James Stred^ rick 52 ( iupressus macrocarpa 53 Paeony La Lorraine. (Col oure d supplement.) Pettigrew, Mr. W., portrait of 57 COLOUR-GROUPING FOR SMALL GARDENS. AT the present time, when we are eagerly looking for the harbingers of the New Year in our more sheltered flower-borders, there is apt to be loss of effect by reason of the scattered appearance of our earliest flowers. The following notes are intended as suggestions whereby our flower-pictures may be co-ordinated ; they describe simple groupings of two or three species, and are specially arranged for small gardens where ambitious schemes are unattain- able. It sometimes happens that we are told to grow certain plants together, and are assured of delightful results ; but when the time comes we find with disappoint- ment that one partner in the display has passed its best before the other is ready to contribute its share. The companionships to be described hereafter have all passed the test of actual accomplishment, in the average climatic conditions of a Midland garden, on a light, warm soil. The front of a shrubbery border is too often neglected ; in spring, when facing south, this is a perfect spot for the earlier flowers, though the latter must be so chosen that they are in harmony with their background. Some of these flower-pictures, in suc- cession through the spring months, may be arranged in the smallest garden, and in larger ones all may find a place. January. — (1) Jasminum nudiflorum (Winter Jessamine) when trained over a support, hangs down in long trails of bright yellow ; underneath is a carpet of Eranthis hyemalis (Winter Aconite) ; to- gether they make a harmony of gold and green lasting for some weeks. (2) At the edge of a shrubbery, in front of the taller growths, are bushes of golden and variegated Privet ; beneath and in front of them the ground is thickly sprinkled with the Common Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) ; or the larger species, Galanthus Elwesii ; in the latter case the bulbs should be scattered less thickly, and should grow out of a carpet of the grey-leafed Sedum glaucum ; the little Stonecrop just matches the Snowdrop leaves in colour, and prevents the white blossoms from being splashed by mud dur- ing heavy winter rain. (3) A group of Helleborus foetidus, which grows so well in partial shade, with a few bushes of Daphne Laureola (Spurge Laurel). The Hellebore is a handsome, bushy plant, 18 inches high, with dark- green palmate leaves and a large central spike of pale-green flowers edged with chocolate and surrounded by light^green scale leaves. Scattered among the Helle- bores are numerous double white Snow- drops (Galanthus nivalis fl. pi.), the whole making a pleasing combination of green tones with white bells between. The Hellebore lasts in flower for about three months ; the Snowdrops coming in the latter part of its display, for the double Snowdrops flower late. February. — (1) On the rock-garden the most charming association is that of a carpet of Cyclamen Coum, with both crim- son and white flowers coming forth from their dark-green rounded leaves, backed by a clump of Erica carnea. Between the Heath plants appear one or two of the shrubby silvery-leafed Acaena splendens. This, though seldom seen in cultivation, is an attractive plant at all seasons, and grows about a foot high. A useful hint about the Acaena is to cut off the long flower-spikes when young, as they are not ornamental, and the ripe fruits covered with recurved bristles form one of the worst kinds of burr for sticking to clothing. (2) A clump of Erica carnea alba on the rockwork is set off by a mass of blue Anemone Hepatica in front. (3) In a similar situation the glaucous- leafed shrubby Veronica (V. pinguifolia) forms a well-toned backing to a clump of Iris reticulata planted to the south of it. This sweet-scented, purple, bulbous Iris begins flowering in February and con- tinues through March, and, having a long flowering season, should be planted in quantity. (4) At the 'edge of the shrubbery a large bush of Choisya ternata gives a rich green background to a mixed carpet of Omphalodes verna and Viola sylvestris alba spreading away to the south. The soft bright blue of the Venus's Navelwort contrasts well with the mass of white scentless Violets produced for months together. (5) A sloping bank of purple and pink Hellebores, including H. colchicus and H. purpurascens, is planted in a sufficiently open formation to admit of the ground being "sown" with golden Crocuses, which light up and enhance the colours of the Hellebores. (6) Dwarf bushes of variegated Euony- mus (E. radicans fol. var.), trailing from a shrubbery, carpeted with Crocus Bleu Celeste, the Crocus spreading in front. Partial shade snits this lovely combina- tion, as the delicate mauve-blue (not sky blue as the name implies, but the nearest shade to blue as yet attained) is best when seen in diffuse light. The variety Maxi- milian approaches it in colour, but is inferior. March. — (1) With this month we have a greater choice of flower schemes, es- pecially for the rock-garden, which during winter depends mostly on the variety of its green foliage. The earliest Saxifrage (S. apiculata) displays green mats topped with closely-set sprays of soft, creamy- yellow flowers. The rich purple Viola (V. gracilis) looks particularly well mingled with the Saxifrage, and the trio is completed by plants of white Hepatica scattered between. The Viola has an as- tonishingly long season of flowering, and enters into other combinations after its early companions are over. (2) Another rock-garden scene shows us dwarf bushes of the pretty Candytuft, Iberis Little Gem, thickly covered with white flowers ; through and among these the blue and white spikes of Chionodoxa Lucilia appear with picturesque effect. (3) Another combination with Chiono- doxas is that of C. grandiflora, the paler blue form, with the tall early Snowflake, Leucoium pulchellum. (4) The earliest Daffodils begin to play a welcome part in the flower garden. A drift of the golden trumpet Henry Irving looks well if in front there is grouped a patch of the lovely Tulipa Kaufmanniana, earliest of Tulips and one of the loveliest., with its large Water-Lily-like flowers of creamy-white with rosy stripes outside. (5) In the wild garden the Golden Spur Narcissus makes a pretty picture mingled with the soft green and white spikes of Ornithogalum nutans. The latter plant becomes a nuisance in a flower border from the multitude of its small bulbs. (6) The Double Golden Campernelle Jonquil is another early species, and the early pale-blue Grape Hyacinths make a, pretty carpet for it. (7) Flowering shrubs now begin to mingle with the herbs, and some pretty grouping may result. Pink bushes of Daphne Mezereon are set off by a carpet of the latest white Crocuses, for by them- selves they are rather dull in colouring, though so deliciously sweet. (8) In the shrubbery, bushes of pale- pink Kibes sanguineum, diffusing their peculiar odour in the sun, grow high above a fronting group of Holly-leafed Berberis wi^h yellow flowers (Mahonia. aquifoha). (9) One of the most attractive of the early spring-flowering shrubs is Prunus Pissartii, with its bronzy foliage and white, pink-centred flowers. Beneath it a carpet of mixed Primroses, carry- ing out and blending with the various shades of reds and pinks, is a pleasing 52 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Jaxuaey 30, 1915. accompaniment ; the Primroses last longer in flower, but the foliage of the Plum grows into a stronger background for them. (10) Another way of treating Prunus Pissartii. especially when grown in tree form, is to provide it with a carpet of the early-flowering variety of the scarlet Anemone fulgens. The glowing mass of colour is in no way interfered with by the light canopy of red-brown foliage through which the "blue sky appears. Eleanora Armitage. THE ROSARY. CHRYSANTHEMUM JAMES STREDWICK. Chrysanthemum James Stredwick, illustrated in fig. 16, is a bright TOsy-fawn flower, somewhat resembling that of the old variety Lady Hanham, which it also resembles in form. The variety, PERNETIANA ROSES. Whether Mr. Taylor approves of the title " Pernetiana " Roses or not, the name " Pernetiana " has come to stay. I may go further and state that, whether the National Rose Society does or does not officially recognise the term, it mokes no difference, he- cause it has been accepted by practically all Continental Ro6e growers, and a large number of British growers also. The history of the so-called Austrian Briars is wrapped in obscurity. Some authorities, notably Linnaeus, mention Germany as the country of origin of R. lutea, and he gives the date 1596. If this be correct, why call it Austrian Briar? Surely "German" Briar would be right, much JAPANESE CHRYSANTHEMUM JAMES STEEDWICK : COLOUR BRIGHT ROSY-FAWN. which belongs to the Japanese section, received the Award of Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society on October 20, 1914, and the First-class Certificate of the National Chrysanthemum Society on the previous day. It will form a use- ful variety for exhibition purposes, and, in addi- tion, its pleasing shade of colour will be appreci- ated by florists and others for decorative purposes. The flower will commend itself to many owing to its freedom from coarseness, the florets being more smooth than in some varieties of this type. as we should now dislike the appellation. Crepin gives R. lutea (Miller) as being introduced in 1768. If this is correct Mr. Pemberton is thirty years too late, as he says 1798. Crepin gives Western Asia a6 its home, and makes R. lutea synonymous with R. Eglanteria (Linn.), 1753. Mr. Wm. Paul, who was a great authority on these old Roses, whilst terming them Austrian Briars, gives Germany, Italy and South, of France as their home, and says nothing about Austria. He gives the date of introduction 1596. He also states that he had been informed that Persian Yellow grew wild in the hedges of Persia, but he thought his informant had had his eye on the single kind. According to Mr. Paul, Persian Yellow was introduced by Sir H. Willock in 1837, and Mr. Paul does not say that it originated from R. lutea, so that I do not know where Mr. Pemberton obtains his authority for this assumption. I wonder if there has arisen confusion regarding a single form of R. sul- phurea which Crepin says was introduced so re- cently as 1859, and is known also as R. Rapini ? Of course, the double form of R. sulphurea is our old friend Burghley Yellow, also known as R. haemispherica. Of course, all this is very wide of the subject of "Pernetiana" Roses; but may I say that I think, in common justice to the eminent raiser of Soleil d'Or, rosarians should willingly adopt the name " Pernetiana " and give it to the varieties resulting from this wonderful hybrid. If there be any other claimant, as Mr. Taylor asserts, let him make his claim. It is strange that we re- ceived no varieties with the remarkable ' ' Per- netiana " habit until after the introduction of Soleil d'Or, and I cannot believe such distinct hybrids would have been kept in the background. The facts seem to me to be that immediately upon the introduction of the "Lyons Rose" hybridists seized upon it for breeding, with the result that many English and Irish novelties un- mistakably show the blood of the group in their growth. I should like to ask rosarians whether such Roses as Arthur R. Goodwin, Rayon d'Or, Madame Edouard Herriot, Cissie Easlea, Beaute de Lyon, Juliet, Louise C. Breslau, Willowmere and Lyons Ro6e do not show themselves to be of a perfectly distinct group. To call them Hybrid Teas is absurd, and Hybrid Austrian Briars equally so. If Lord Penzance could create a distinct race of Sweet Briars which axe now universally known as Penzance Briars, surely M. Pernet Ducher is entitled to claim for his varieties the term " Per- netiana " Roses. If we must call them all Hybrid Austrian Briars, how is it that Lord and Lady Penzance are not included, seeing they partly originated from R. lufcea bicolor? Another point that should not be overlooked is the fact that the Austrian Briars are summer- flowering only. By adopting the term "Per- netiana "we are at least assisting the novice to choose perpetual-flowering Roses, as practically all of the " Pernetiana " group have this excel- lent quality. I am firmly of the opinion that this group will in a few years become as im- portant in gardens as the Hybrid Teas, judging from the thousands of seedlings I saw when visiting M. Pernet Ducher in 1913. His Con- stance Ward, and some others which he will dis- tribute shortly, will eclipse all that this raiser has hitherto given us. Waller Easlea, Eastwood, Leigh-on-Sea. ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINCS. LAELIO-CATTLEYA LYDIA (L. COWANII X C. GASKELLIANA ALBA). This pretty Cowslip-yellow coloured hybrid, raised by Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. some years ago, is a good example of a free-growing plant which, while never aspiring to first-class rank in the estimation of experts, is a very desir- able subject for decorative purposes, especially as it usually flowers in winter. A fine inflorescence with a terminal head of nine fragrant yellow blooms, each nearly 4 inches across, and having the narrow, elongated, wavy labellum character- istic of L. cinnabarina and L. flava crosses, is sent us by Mr. H. Haddon, gardener to J. J. Neale, Esq., Penarth. Laelia Cowanii is one of the best parents of the section. It was collected in the province of Espirito Santo, Brazil, where it grows with L. flava and L. cinnabarina, between which it is alleged that it may be a natural hybrid. Januart 30, 1915.] THE GA RDENERS' CHRONICLE. 53 NOTES ON CONIFERS. IV.— CUPRESSUS MACROCARPA.* The remaining Californian species to be dealt with is the Monterey Cypress, which is perhaps the best known of the larger fruited species in cultivation. It is sometimes confused with the Mediterranean Cypress, Cupressus sempervirens, a much rarer tree in gardens, in my experience ; but there is no difficulty in making out the two species if the following points are observed. In C macrocarpa the ultimate branchlets are l-20th inch in diameter, with the leaves l-16th inch long, slightly spreading, and swollen at the tips. In C. sempervirens the ultimate branchlets are more slender, l-28th inch in diameter, the leaves being much smaller, l-25th inch long, not swollen at the tips, and closely appressed for their whole length. As a wild tree Cupressus macrocarpa is ex- tremely restricted in its range, as it only grows in the neighbourhood of Carmel Bay, in Mon- terey County, California, where there are two groves, and on the island of Guadalupe. At Monterey the main grove occupies an area along the sea-coast about 2 miles long and 200 yards wide, from Cypress Point to the shores of Car- mel Bay. The smaller grove is at Point Lobos, which forms the southern boundary of the bay. The appearance of the older trees, with their gnarled stems and flattened crowns, is remark- ably picturesque. Owing to constant exposure to winds from the sea, branches do not develop on the windward side of the trunk, and many of the stems are almost prostrate. On the sand dunes, where it is planted with Pinus insignis, the trees are often bathed in the salt spray thrown up from the great breakers at high tide. Two photographs of the Monterey Grove are reproduced in Gard. Citron., XXII., 52, figs. 17, 18 (1897). Hartweg, the German collector, found Cupressus macrocarpa at Monterey in 1846, but eight years previous to this it was in cultivation in the Horticultural Society's garden at Chiswick, plants having been raised from seeds of unknown origin presented by Lambert. A plant seen two or three years later in Low's nursery at Clapton, which had been received from Petrograd as a new species of Cupressus from California, turned out to be the same thing. It has since become general in gardens, and though frost rarely occurs at its Monterey home, it will stand severe cold at many places in England, where in the southern and western counties it has attained a height of over 80 feet and succeeds well as a coast tree. In other places it has been often killed or badly injured by frost, and statistics from Palmer's tables quoted in Lawson's Pinetum Britannicum II., 198 (1884) show that during the severe winter of 1860-61 Cupressus macrocarpa was killed in 57 localities, injured in 24, and un- hurt in 27. A tree planted at Gunnersbury Park in 1854, which had attained 61 feet in height, was destroyed by the severe frost of the winter 1867-68. t According to the Rev. M. J. Berkeley^ all the specimens in the Thames Valley were killed by the memorable frost of 1860. One of the best specimens I have measured is on Lord Falmouth's estate at Lamorran, Cornwall. In 1909 I made this to be 88 feet high by 13 feet in girth at 5 feet from the ground. In the same year Mr. Seaborne measured a tree at Luscombe Castle and found it to be 91 feet high by 14 feet in girth. There are several other trees in Cornwall over 80 feet high, one which existed at Penrose, near Hel- * Cupressus macrocarpa, Hartweg in Journ. Hurt. Sac., II., 1S7 (1*47) ; Gordon in Journ. Hart Snc., IV., 296 (1S49) ; Lawson, Pinet. Brit., II., 195, t. 32 (1884); J. D. Hooker in Gard. Citron., XXIII., 176, fig. 34 (1835); Sargent, Silra -V. Ann:. X.. 103, t. 525 (1896); Kent, Vdtch't Man. Comf., 215 (1900); Elwes and Henry, Trees af Great Britain ami Ireland, \ '., 11(1,, (1910) ; Clinton-Baker, Must, Cam'/., II., 72. »K. 1 (1909). t Gard. Chron., 1868, p. 152. t Gard. Chron., 1S70, p. 249. ston, in 1894 being no less than 19 feet at 4 feet from the ground. Elwes and Henry in Trees of Great. Britain and Ireland^ give a long list of remarkable trees of this species. Of the flat-topped form (var. Lambertiana), the best recorded is on the lawn at Cuffnels, near Lyndhurst. The finest known specimen of the fastigiate form (var. fastigiata) is believed to be a tree at Osborne, planted by the Prince Consort in 1846.1! In 1865 it was very symmetrical in shape and 40 feet high, but in 1910 measured about 80 feet with a girth of over 16 feet at 3 feet from the macrocarpa seems to thrive best in the south- west. In Ireland there are also some fine specimens, one of the best being 85 feet in height and 14 feet 3 inches in girth, according to Mr. A. C. Forbes' measurement in 1908. The specimen represented in the photograph (fig. 17) is from a tree at Rostrevor House, Co. Down, kindly sent me by Sir John Ross-of- Bladensburg, a most enthusiastic collector of trees and shrubs. It is about 55 feet high and 14 feet 5 inches in girth about 2 feet from the ground. It belongs to the var. Lambertiana and was planted about 1867. I recently saw two well- FlG. 17. — CUPRESSUS MACROCARPA VAR. LAMHKRTIAXA. base. At Brickendon Grange, Hertfordshire, I have seen an avenue of trees averaging about 65 feet high and 5 feet 2 inches in girth. The late owner, Mr. Trotter, used the timber of this species for rails and posts in a fence, and found that it remained perfectly sound for 15 years. He also found it suitable for making wheelbarrows, carts, rafters and beams in build- ings, so that the tree has some economic value. In Wales it is reported to be doing well all round the coast, and in Scotland Cupressus 8 On. tit., V., 1169. Figured in Piiwtnm Britannicum, II., t. S3 (1884), and in Elwes and Henry, ")). {it., t. 298. grown specimens of the beautiful variety lutes at Messrs. Waterer's nursery at Bagshot. The^e are about 15 to 20 feet high and most ornamental. The form growing on Guadalupe Island (var. guadalupensk) appears to differ only from the type by its glaucous leaves and globose conos. A. Bruce Jncl-xon. Cupressus Macnabiana at Kew (see Vol. LV1., p. 411).— The specimen of this rare Cypress, reported to be 20 feet high, at Kew, is, I am glad to find, still living, but it has been moved from its original position, which ac- counted for my not finding it. A. />. /. 54 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [January 30, 1915. The Week's Work. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. IIedley WARREN, Gardener to the Aston-ClintoD Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire. Wall Trees.— If the ground has been pre- pared in advance the planting of all kinds of wall trees may be undertaken in mild weather. If the soil is strong in texture and rich in plant food little or no manure is needed ; but light soils resting on porous subsoils need enriching with plenty of animal manure. In heavy, strong ground, set the roots in a slight mound, so that they are a little higher than the general surface of the soil, but on light land it is better to plant at the level or even in a slight depres- sion in order that moisture may the more easily reach the roots. Newly-planted trees should be mulched with half-decayed manure. The work of pruning, regulating and nailing of the trees may be proceeded with. Finish the training of Apricots and Peaches first, as they start into growth earliest. The spurs on Pear, Plum and Cherry trees should be well thinned, retaining all buds near to the origin of the spur. Peach trees require great care and attention to keep them in a healthy, fruitful condition. Endeavour to furnish these trees with well-ripened wood, which is not always easy to do. Trees growing in highly-enriched borders usually make gross shoots that rarely mature properly in ordinary seasons. In pruning do not retain too many shoots, and always prune to a leaf-bud. If the trees need cleansing dress them as recommended in the calendar of January 2. Standard and Bush Trees.— The plant- ing of standard and bush trees may still be done, but not in frosty weather. Newly planted trees should be tied securely to stakes, and mulched with partly-decayed manure or litter to protect the roots later from drying winds. Hasten the work of pruning Apple, Pear, Plum and Cherry trees in favourable weather, thinning the branches where they are in the least crowded Dress with a specific all trees that are infested with insect pests, and watch especially for the presence of American blight or woolly aphis, as the present is a favourable time to eradicate this insect. Cleanse the stems and main branches of standard trees from lichen growth by means of a suitable winter wash. Raspberries.— The plants will not require much pruning if the canes were well thinned last summer. Raspberries are best grown in rows about 4 feet apart, and the canes trained to wires fastened to wooden stakes or iron stan- dards, the latter for preference. The ground should be dug very lightly and enriched with manure. Fresh plantations may be made now. Although Raspberries continue to crop for many years it is advisable to plant a row or two of young plants each year and to destroy a cor- responding number of old ones. Bush Fruits.— In districts free from bull- finches the early pruning of Gooseberries and Currants is to be recommended. In low-lying or damp situations the bushes may need spray- ing to rid the stems and branches of lichen growth, and where necessary the work should be done now. In districts where seaweed is1 ob- tainable it is an excellent practice to cover the ground between the bushes with a thin dressing of this material. Seaweed not only destroys slugs and other insect pests, but also forms a splendid manure if applied in moderation, and is especially beneficial to light soils. Wires and trellis work used for training Currants and Gooseberries may need repairing or extending, and this work should be done now. Before commencing to prune double or triple cordons give the branches a sharp shake, as this will cause shoots that are diseased at the base to break off, and these might not be otherwise detected. Black Currants planted against north walls will furnish a suc- cession of fruit for many weeks after the ordi- nary crop is over. In pruning the bushes train in as much voung wood as possible without causing crowding. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Cvpripedium.— Few plants equal the Cypri- pedium in producing a plentiful display of bloom during late autumn and the winter, especially in gardens near manufacturing towns where fogs destroy other flowers of a more deli- cate texture. The varieties of C. insigne such as Sanderae, Harefield Hall, Chantinii, Laura Kimball and Sanderianum are cultivated exten- sively ; also hybrids, including Thalia, Mrs. F. Wellesley, nitens, and Leeanum vars. Actaeus, Euryades, Arthurianum and Hitchinsiae. All the flowers of Cypripediums are excellent as cut blooms and the plants may be utilised for house decoration, the spikes remaining beautiful for several weeks. As the plants pass out of flower make an examination to see if fresh rooting material is needed, a larger receptacle required, or division of the plant desirable. Small plants should be potted on, but large specimens need not be disturbed for several years in succession, and they are more floriferous in consequence. All strong-growing Cypripediums should be re- potted in a mixture of two parts best quality fibrous loam — from which the finer particles have been removed by sifting, and one part peat or Osmunda-fibre, with a sprinkling of crushed crocks to ensure a free passage for water. For smaller plants and less vigorous kinds employ more peat or fibre and less loam, while a small quantity of Sphagnum-moss may be added witn advantage. The pots should be filled about one- third of their depth with material for drainage, and on the crocks should be placed a thin layer of coarse loam. Each plant, and especially those pot-bound, should be watered thoroughly the day before being disturbed. If the roots adhere firmly to the sides of the pot the latter should be smashed and the roots detached with- out injuring them. When all the drainage and decayed compost have been picked from among the roots the plant is ready for potting. Press the soil well between the roots and make it mode- rately firm, seeing that the surface is not higher than the rim of the pot. Plants may be divided with a view to increasing the stock, or large specimens that have become bare in the centre may be made up afresh. In either case the soil should be removed, the rhizome severed in various places, and the roots unravelled. If the variety is a choice one each portion should be potted separately, but with ordinary kinds several growths may be arranged together to make a compact specimen, taking care that a few of the growing points face towards the middle. In dividing large plants cut away all old and useless flowering growths, leaving only one or two behind each lead. The plants should be kept on the dry side for a few weeks after re-potting, but when the roots have penetrated into the compost a liberal amount of water should be afforded. A moist atmosphere is es- sential, and the ventilators should be opened occasionally, but the grower must use his dis- cretion in this matter, taking the position and locality of the houses into consideration. Where a special house is devoted to Cypripediums the temperature should fluctuate between 55° and 60°, but with sun-heat it may rise 5° or 10° with- out causing harm. moderate temperature, syringing the stems from time to time until growth commences. Shake the old soil from the roots and repot the plants, using a compost of fibrous loam, leaf-mould, de- cayed manure and coarse sand. Secure the lead- ing shoot to a neat stake and pinch the side shoots with the object of making the specimens of good shape. Lilium. — The earliest batch of potted Lilies requires more water, and occasional applications of weak liquid manure will be beneficial. In- crease the temperature to 55° if blooms are re- quired for Easter. Later batches should be grown in gentle heat and they require no liquid manure ; when the roots appear top- dress them with rich loam, to which a little bone- meal has been added. Pot on later bulbs in rich loam mixed with a small quantity of de- cayed manure and coarse sand, as these bulbs benefit from liberal treatment. Mignonette.— Afford air on all favourable occasions to plants of Mignonette which have been wintered in pits or frames. Pinch off any weak growths and be sparing with the water- can, but feed the roots at short intervals with liquid manure and soot water. If the pots are stood on a cool, moist bottom, let the temperature rise to 55°. Gardenia.— The flower-buds on plants in pits are swelling, and occasional waterings with weak soot water will be beneficial. If the plants are plunged in a bed of leaves they may be syringed with weak, clear soot water of the same tempera- I ture as the atmosphere of the house. Keep the plants clean and maintain a night temperature I of 65° to 70°, with a fairly humid atmosphere. During the day the temperature may be allowed to rise to 85° or 90°. Insert strong, healthy shoots as cuttings in open soil and plunge the I pots in a propagating case with a bottom heat of 75°. Eucharis.— To obtain the best results with Eucharis, feed the roots with warm, diluted liquid manure and soot water during the flower- ing period. When the plants have flowered, with- hold water from the roots, but syringe the foli- age until flower-spikes again appear, when the roots should be again fed with liquid manure. , Unhealthy bulbs may require repotting; it will be preferable to use a fairly strong compost liberallv enriched with bone-meal and sand, I rather than leaf-mould or decayed manure. Effect of Fogs. — Much damage is done to ! plants under glass in and near large towns by j fogs. Nothing can be done to prevent the loss of I leaves and flowers, but as soon as the fogs are over } wash the roof-glass to avert further damage from the exclusion of sunlight. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. JORDAN, Gardener to Lady NunbtjrnholME, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Calceolaria. — Shift plants of the earliest batch of Calceolarias into 7-inch pots before they show signs of flowering. The compost should consist of a mixture of good fibrous loam, leaf- mould and sand, with a little dry manure added. Place the plants in a light house near to the roof-glass, and in a temperature of 50°. Water the roots carefully for the first few weeks, and fumigate the house occasionally to destroy green fly. Later batches of plants should be afforded larger pots before the roots become pot-bound. Fuchsia. — Plants raised from cuttings rooted in August, intended for flowering early in summer, should be transferred to larger pots for a few weeks before placing them into the largest-sized pots for flowering. Examine the main batch of plants and start them in a THE FLOWER GARDEN. Bv A. J. Cobb, Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duflryn, South Wales. Sub-tropical Plants from Seed.— Seeds of the following plants may be sown now in heat to furnish specimens for sub-tropical bedding or association with others in the sub- tropical garden. They all require to be treated as half-hardy annual's, and an essential point is to grow them without a check, remembering that luxurious leafage cannot be obtained in starved conditions. A rich, well-prepared soil will be necessary to attain this when specimens are planted out. Ricinus communis (Castor Oil plant) in variety, Wigandia Vigieri, Datura Wrightii, Zea variegata, Melianthus major, Nicotiana sylvestris, N. grandiflora purpurea, and Giant Amaranthus caudatus are a selection. As the foliage of these plants is liable to damage from strong winds, plant in sheltered positions whenever possible. Rhododendron.— Where, from any cause, it was not possible to plant Rhododendrons or carry out any necessary alterations to estab- lished beds early last autumn, the work can be done now, assuming that the weather is favour- able and the soil in a condition for working. Rhododendrons grow best in soil of a peaty nature and free from lime, and the soil of the garden may not be of this nature. However, provided the staple is free, or almost free, from lime, there need be no hesitation in giving Rhododendrons a fair trial, for they frequently January 50, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 55 thrive in good loam. At the time of planting in- corporate a quantity of partially decayed leaves, rotted manure, and burnt ash with the soil, working these materials about the roots. After the plants are established they will derive much assistance from top-dressings of these materials. This dressing will not only furnish the surface fibrous roots with material as food, but will as- sist in keeping them cool in summer and also help to retain moisture in the ground. Although plenty of moisture is essential, the soil should be well drained. Where beds have become over- crowded the plants most needing room should be lifted carefully and others readjusted. The advice I gave in a previous calendar against allowing roots to become dry during transplant- ing forcibly applies to Rhododendrons, and, in- deed, to all subjects with fibrous roots. Speci- mens which have grown thin and tall may be brought to a dwarf, shapely condition in a few years by pruning the shoots severely any time during February. Hamamelis.— The claims of the Hamamelis should be considered when planting shrubs, for they furnish pleasing colour in the garden during January and February, and the cut flowering sprays are useful for house deco- ration. Of H." japonica, H. arborea, H. Zuc- cariniana and H. mollis I prefer arborea. H. mollis is of more recent introduction, and by many is considered the best of all, but with us it does not grow so well as H. arborea. It is, however, the finest for autumn effects, having larger leaves than the others. General Remarks. — Directly the soil dries sufficiently complete the work of planting with all speed, as the sooner deciduous trees and shrubs, including Roses, are planted the better. In view of gales, see that plants are made quite secure to their stakes. Roll garden paths fre- quently. Remove Plantains and other large weeds "from lawns previous to dressing the turf a little later with a mixture of soil and decayed manure. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Peach Trees.— The effects of mismanage- ment in the culture of these trees during the previous autumn will now be seen by the trees casting their buds. Many things may have con- tributed to this trouble, but frequently it re- sults from an insufficient supply of water at the roots during the growing and resting periods. Another cause is excessive bud formation, par- ticularly amongst the larger-flowered varieties. Where trees are casting their buds, cut away all weak growths and give special attention to the supply of moisture at the roots. Keep the young growths free from insect pests. Strawberries.— Place the earliest batch of Strawberries, which are coming into flower, on a shelf near the roof-glass, turning the pots so that the flowers are exposed to the south. Admit air on fine days during the forenoon, and at noon dust the ilowers with a camel's-hair brush. Early forced Strawberries are very susceptible to attacks of red spider, and, when the flowers are set it is advisable to syringe the plants at least twice daily. W here liquid farmyard manure can be obtained, it will benefit the plants, but, failing this, artificial manure should be applied. Further batches should be intro- duced into heat to afford a continuous supply of fruits. Tomatos.— Transplant seedling Tomatos into 6-inch pots, stake them at once, and place them where they will obtain plenty of light. The compost should consist of good turfy loam with leaf-mould added. Grow the plants in a tem- perature of 50° to 55°. Pineapples.— The Pine stove should be in readiness to receive the plants of the Queen variety that will furnish ripe fruits early in June. Provided the bed for plunging the pots was made some time ago the plants may be plunged in it when the heat has declined to 90°. In making a selection of plants for early fruiting choose those having thick stems and small leaves in the centre. As the plants have been partially rested since November, they should receive a thorough soaking at the roots with tepid water ; afterwards watering should be done with extra eare until the fruit begins to appear. A minimum temperature of 65° should be main- tained, with a rise of 10° during the day with sun heat. At this stage it will not be wise to syringe the plants overhead, but damp the paths and keep the evaporating pans filled with water. Extending Vine Borders.— Through stress of work or other causes this necessary work may have been delayed, but as the roots of the earlier varieties will now be active, it should be pro- ceeded with at once. The additional width of the border must be determined by circum- stances, but generally an addition of 5 feet will be- ample to support the young vines for at least two years. Nourishment for the roots can always be supplemented by the judicious use of a suitable top-dressing. It is advantageous to use good fibrous loam that has been stacked for at least six months, although many successful growers do not hesitate to use it in a much fresher state. Add to the turf bone-meal, lime rubble and wood ash. It is a good plan to fill the space in front of this wall of turf with hot- bed material, which will have the effect of heating the soil and thus encouraging the roots to grow into the fresh turf. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Chicory.— As a winter salad Chicory is almost indispensable, and very easily produced. The roots may be lifted as required and placed in a warm chamber, where they will soon pro- duce an abundance of blanched leaves suitable for salad or for cooking as a vegetable. If large supplies are required the roots may be placed in underground pits and treated in the same manner as advised for Seakale. The crowns of Chicory should be left 1 inch above the surface of the soil to prevent damping. Rhubarb.— Roots of Rhubarb may be lifted. and placed in the forcing pit as required. Only a little heat is necessary to start them into growth, but they will benefit by exposure to the weather for a few days before being placed in heat. The roots should be lightly covered with fine soil, which should be kept moist by the frequent use of the syringe. Lettuce.— A sowing of Lettuce seed should be made in boxes and the seeds germinated in 3 temperature of 50°. Cover the boxes with sheets of glass, as a protection from mice, and, when the young plants are well through the surface, place the boxes close to the roof-glass and freely venti late the frames or house, so that the plants may grow stocky. "When large enough to .handle, the seedlings should be pricked into a pit where a bed has been made up to within 15 inches of the glass. If large quantities are required, the seeds may be sown broadcast in slightly heated pits quite close to the roof-glass, and the seedlings transplanted as soon as they are large enough. May King, Golden Ball and Pioneer are suitable varieties for present sowing. Ground Operations. — The heavy rains have delayed ground operations, but there is other work that can be done in wet weather, such as the preparing of Pea sticks and examining Onions and Potatos. When the weather is dry, let the full staff be employed in the preparation of the soil for early crops. The Seed Order. — The list of seeds for the season's sowing should be considered care- fully, and when prepared despatched to the seedsman with as little delay as possible, in order that there may be no waiting for the seeds when the ground is ready for sowing. Winter Spinach.— A plentiful supply of this vegetable has been available throughout the winter, but the rains are beginning to have a detrimental effect on the crop, and especially where the soil is heavy. All decaying leaves should be removed at once, and the soil stirred with the Dutch hoe as soon as it is sufficiently dry for working. If slugs are troublesome dust the soil frequently with lime or soot in the early mornings. THE APIARY. By Chloris. Honey at Flower Shows.— As horticul- tural societies are, or will soon be, engaged in drawing up their schedules for the shows, the following suggestions with regard to classes for honey may be of service. Suggested rules : — (1) All honey and wax to be produced by the exhibitor's bees. (2) Extracted or run honey must be exhibited in plain glass bottles (commonly known as the pound size), and to facilitate judging they should be of one size (5 to 6 inches high) and shape throughout the show. (3) Comb honey to be glazed and the paper lace must leave at least 3^ by 3g inches of honey uncovered. The glazing to be capable of easy removal by the judge. (4) No exhibitor or joint owner to take more than one prize in a class, nor shall more than one member of a family make a separate entry in any class. Other rules could be added, but the adoption) of those enumerated would bring to an end much of the discontent occasioned by there being no- conditions in the schedule for the guide of exhibitors. Rule 4 is very important, for it may happen that an apiarist who has had a very successful season might win all the prizes in- comb and extracted honey by putting in ex- hibits in the names of the members of his family, which is unfair. For a small show the schedule might include classes for : — (1) The best six lib. sections of honey gathered in 1915. (2) The best six lib. jars of extracted honey gathered in 1915. (3) The best six lib. jars of granulated honey gathered in 1914. (4) The best exhibit of wax made up in- fancy moulds — total weight not to exceed lib. (5) The best collection of bee produce — honey, mead, vinegar, wax, etc. Maximum space, 2 feet 6 inches by 2 feet fr inches. Feeding. — It is not uncommon for bees to- desert their hives during a warm day in the early part of the year because of hunger; sucxi swarms are known as " hunger swarms." To- prevent this they should be well fed, the best food being a frame of sealed honey ; but where this is an impossibility, then candy must be given. Under no consideration must the hive be over- hauled and the cluster of bees broken. Candy is best made as follows : — (1) Make a stiff dough of the best extracted honey and white cane sugar in a powder form. Heat the honey — taking care not to boil it — until it is very thin ; then stir in the powdered sugar. Afterward knead with the hands to make it take up more sugar. It is necessary to note that icing sugar contains starch and will not answer the purpose. Pure cane sugar should be reduced to powder by the aid of the pestle and mortar. The right con- sistency of this food is reached when it resembles stiff putty. It is often spoken of as " Good's candy." (2) Soft candy. — Take an enamelled preserving pan. In it place one quart of water and allow it to boil over a clear fire. Stir in 51b. of pure cane sugar and stir until all the sugar is dissolved and it begins to boil. Then draw the pan aside to skim off all scum, etc. After this let it boil again as rapidly as it may for about twenty minutes, but do not stir. Have a bowl of cold water near ; dip an the curved forefinger and quickly dip the wet finger into* the syrup, and on withdrawing it, dip it at once into the cold water again, and any adhering sugar should easily be rolled into a bp.ll if the mixture is cooked. There is no need to fear being scalded if the finger be first dipped in the cold water. Throughout the operations kee-p the finger curved. Remove the pan and pour the liquid into a dish to cool, taking care not to stir while it is hot. When the finger can be borne in it for nearly a minute without scald- ing, then stir until it is stiff snd white. Put either mixture in moulds and place in the hive above the cluster, exposing the bees as little as possible, and put over the whole a loose chaff cushion that will easily fill every crevice that would allow heat to escape and help to create a draught. Heat must be conserved at this season to ensure success. 56 THE GA RDENERS' CHRONICLE, [January 30, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICE. ADVEETISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C- Editors and Publisher- — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing 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 Editors. The two departments, Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- direc ted. APPOINTMENTS FOR FEBRUARY. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1— Nat. Chrys. Soc. Annual Meet. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2— Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns. Meet. (Lecture at 3 p.m. on " Keeping Orchards Clean," by Prof. H. M. Lefroy.) Scottish Hort. Assoc. Meet. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4— Manchester and N. of Eng. Orchid Soc. Meet. Linnean Soc. Meet. Roy. Soc. Meet. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5— Roy. Gardeners' Orphan Fund Annual Meet, and Election of Candidates at Simpson's Restaurant, Strand, at 3 p.m. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8— B.G.A. (Watford Branch) meet. Lectures by Messrs. Newman and Leslie on "Gardeners' Friends and Enemies." TUESDAY. FEBRUARY 9— Roy. Hort. Soc. Ann. Meet, at 3 p.m. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16— Roy. Hort. Soc. Corns. Meet. (Lecture at 3 p.m. on "The Trees of the Cambridge Botanic Garden." by Mr. R. I. Lynch). Hort. Club Ann. Meet, and Dinner at Hotel Windsor. THURSDAY. FEBRUARY 18— Manchester and N. of Eng. Orchid Soc. Meet. Roy. Soc. Meet. Linnean Soc. Meet. Average Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 39.5. Actual Tempbrature3 : — London, January 27 (6 p.m.) : 38°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London : Thursday, January 28 (10 a.m.) ; Bar. 29.2 ; Temp. 37°. Weather- Fine. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY, AND FRIDAY— Herbaceous Plants, Hardy Bulbs, etc., by Protheroe and Morris. 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C., at 12. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— Rose Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, Lilies, etc.. at Ste- vens's Rooms, 38. King Street, Covent Garden, at MONDAY— Roses at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. WEDNESDAY— Bulbs and Roots at 12 noon ; 603 cases of Japanese Minims at 3 p.m. ; Fruit Trees, Roses, Greenhouse Plants, at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. FRIDAY— Roses and Shrubs, at 1 ; Orchids at 12.15. Bv Pro- theroe and Morris. The prevalence of silver- Siiver-ieaf leaf disease is well Disease. known in a general way ; but it is doubtful whether the extent of its incidence and of the damage which it does are sufficiently appreciated. In order to bring home to growers the seriousness of silver-leaf dis- ease, Mr. Hector, plant pathologist in University College, Reading, has issued a Bulletin describing the distribution of the disease in Berkshire, Hampshire, and in particular in Middlesex. It must be con- fessed that the picture presented by Mr. Hector of the ravages of this disease is a gloomy one. He finds in Middlesex orchards that the percentage of diseased trees ranges from 8 to 62 — the latter, need it be said, in an orchard in a state " of criminal neglect." Such an orchard, with its dead trees still standing, serves as a breeding-ground for the fungus ("Stereum purpureum) which brings about silver- leaf. That fungus is catholic in its at- tack, and has been observed by Mr. Hec- tor in Plum, Greengage, Damson, Peach, Nectarine, Gooseberry, Red Currant, Cherry Laurel, Lilac, Cherry and Elder; fortunately, however, its destructive powers are generally exercised only on the Plum. Of Plums, Mr. Hector finds that Victorias are most susceptible to the disease, and that Czars also are very sus- ceptible. Moreover, once the fungus has gained a lodgment in trees of the latter kind its ravages are remarkably complete and rapid. Less susceptible than Vic- torias and Czars is Monarch, and still less liable to attack are Pond's Seedling, Prince of Wales and Emperor. Early Prolific appears to be the least susceptible of all. Evidence exists that the disease is spreading, and that once it has declared itself in an orchard only drastic action, can arrest its progress. Mr. Hector is not disposed to credit the statements that dis- eased trees recover. In his experience the disease is mortal, and a tree once at- tacked is doomed — though it may linger on unfruitful]}- for 3 or even 5 years. The view advanced by Professor Per- cival that the fungus may spread from a diseased tree through the soil and at- tack neighbouring trees is not adopted by Mr. Hector, who holds that wounds are the loci in which spores lodge. He points out that regrafted trees are very prone to the disease, and suggests that over and above wounds due to hail, frost and in- sects, abrasions caused by the carelessness of pickers are a frequent means of intro- ducing the spores of the fungus into the trees. Ignorance of the life-history of the disease appears to be very general among those in charge of the orchards. Whole trr-es affected by the disease are left stand- ing, dead branches are not removed, winter pruning is accompanied by no attempt to prevent infection of the exposed surfaces, although it is in late autumn and winter that the spore-bearing fructifications of Stereum purpureum are produced on dead wood. It is only on such wood, indeed, that the fructifications are formed. Evi- dently if all dead wood were cut out and burned as early as possible a fruitful source of infection would be removed; the same remark applies to stumps which are only too often left in the ground. Mr. Hector states that he has again and again found stacks of Plum wood in which the fructifications of the silver-leaf fungus were numerous — fertile breeding-grounds of disease. Wood from the stacks may be usfld for repairing fences, and thus the ignorant orchardist is taking particular pains to kill his own trees and also those of his neighbour. An interesting mode whereby the dis- ease may be disseminated consists in the practice of allowing hawkers to remove Plum suckers. The latter, it appears, are sold by the hawker to certain nursery- men as "Plum stocks." Mr. Hector does not encourage the be- lief that the digging in of sulphate of iron or watering in of a solution of this sub- stance is of value as a cure. We note with regret the final conclu- sion that the application of preventive measures — the removal of dead wood — is only likely to be successful if it is en- forced throughout the whole area. We are not enamoured of enforcement. En- forcement is nice for officials and nasty for everybody else. It is becoming op- pressively common, and the pruning-hook of bureaucracy is growing sharper. Why not try -systematic persuasion? Plum- growers are open to conviction other than by a magistrate. Why should not Mr. Hector prepare a two-page pamphlet on the sanitation of a Plum orchard, and take steps to see that his tract gets into the hands of all the orchardists in the country? If also he will take over one of the badly- diseased orchards, root out and destroy all the diseased trees, introduce aseptic methods of grafting — a by no means diffi- cult task — and a year or so hence demon- strate that silver-leaf is banished he will have done a real service to the growers, and we can promise him that that service shall have a wide publicity. Our Supplementary Illustration.— Paeony La Lorraine was first exhibited at the Ghent Internationa] Exhibition in April, 1913, and the unusual colouring of the flower at once attracted notice. The variety is a distinct break in Tree Paeonies, for although these flowers ex- hibit many and varied tints, there was none pre- vious to La Lorraine that could be termed yellow. It is a hybrid between the herbaceous species Paeonia, lutea (see Gard. Ghron., July 18, 1908, Supp. Must.) and the tree Paeony P. Moutan, and was raised by JIM. V. Lemoixe et Fils, Nancy. Paeony La Lorraine was shown by Messrs. Pipers at the meeting of the Royal Hor- ticultural Society on May 14, 1913. when the Floral Committee awarded the hybrid a First- class Certificate. Coloured Plate.— The subjects of the Coloured Plate to be issued with our next number are Roses British Queen and Mrs. A. Carnegie. Royal Horticultural Society.— The next meeting of the committees will be held on Tuesday, February 2, in the society's hall, Vin- cent Square, Westminster. At 3 o'clock a lecture on " Keeping Orchards Clean " will be delivered by Professor H. Maxwell-Lefeoy. National Chrysanthemum Society.— The annual general meeting of the National Chry- santhemum Society will be held at Carr's Rest- aurant, 264, Strand, London, on Monday, Feb- ruary 1, at 7 p.m. The president, Sir Axbeht Roixit, LL.D., will preside. Royal Gardeners Orphan Fund.— The annual general meeting of the friends and sup- porters of the Royal Gardeners' Orphan Fund and election of orphans will take place on Fri- day, the 5th prox., at 3 p.m., at Simpson's, Strand. The committee recommends the elec- tion of sixteen children to the benefits of the Fund from a list of twenty-three approved candi- dates The poll will close at 4 p.m. International Botanical Congress.— A meeting of the General Organising Committee of the International Botanical Congress, which had been arranged to be held in London next May. took place at the Linnean Society '6 rooms on Thursday, the 21st inst. A report was given of the work of preparation which had already been carried out by the Executive Committee, and the members were asked to consider the pre- sent position. The two following resolutions were carried : — (1) That the Congress be not held in 1915. (2) That the present Executive Committee continue to act so long as necessary. The committee was strongly of opinion that the Congress in London should not be abandoned, and the suggestion was made that it might take Supplement to the " Gardeners' Chronicle." TREE PAEONY, LA LORRAINE (R.H.S. First-Class Certificate, May 14, 1913). January 30, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 57 place at the next quinquennium, in 1920. But it was agreed that nothing definite could be eettled at the present time, and the following resolution was passed: — "That the Executive Committee be authorised to convoke a meeting of the General Committee at some future date to consider the date of the Congress." It was also decided that in the meantime the General Com- mittee be called together once a year. War Items.— The annual show of the Burn- ley and District Horticultural Society has been abandoned, but monthly meetings will be held as usual. The sum of £30 ha6 been contributed by the society to the various relief committees. ■ Mr. Hugh A. Pettigeew, gardener to the Earl of Plymouth, St. Fagan's Castle, near Cardiff, has been granted a commission in the Welsh Horse, and will leave St. Fagan's Castle on Monday next, February 1, in order to join his regiment. Information has been received of the death in action on December 20 of Private T. W. Rennie, of the King's Own Scot- tish Borderers. Private Rennie was for some years gardener to James Kerb, Esq.. Troqueer Holm, Dumfries, and was latterly at Newton Stewart, where he followed his calling until he was called up as a reservist. He was 26 years of age. We announced in our issue of January 16 the death of Monsieur Jules Hte de Crom, and we now learn that this eminent Ghent orchidist fell a victim to the Germans. Accord- ing to our information, the Germans had asked for wine from Monsieur Hte, and having drunk too much, became ill. The Prussians, believing themselves to be poisoned, imprisoned Monsieur Hye and several of his employees for five days, during which time they momentarily expected to be shot. They were then released, a chemical analysis having proved their innocence. Mon- sieur Hye, however, died a few days after his release and as a consequence of the ill-treat- ment he had received whilst under arrest. The Edinburgh Royal Botanic Society Guild. — The first number of the Journal of the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Society Guild opens with an appreciation — prefaced by an admirable portrait — of the President of the Guild, Profes- sor Bayley Balfour. The appreciation contains an excellent account of the career and activities of Professor Balfour, and refers in warm terms to the fact which is so widely recognised, that he has done invaluable work both for horticulture and for the education of gardeners. As the out- come of Professor Balfour's efforts, the Edin- burgh Botanic Garden, with its splendid equip- ment and admirable staff, is available not only to the student of botany, but also to gardeners and foresters. Distinguished in many directions — as an academic botanist, and as a traveller and in- troducer of many plants — not the least of Pro- fessor Balfour's achievements is his success in bridging the gap between horticulture and botany, and in bringing the resources and dis- coveries of biological science within the reach of the ambitious young gardener. Presentation to Mr. David King. —On the 14th inst. a company of over forty gentlemen, members and ex-members of the Council of the Scottish Horticultural Association, and a few personal friends, met in the Royal British Hotel, Edinburgh, to honour Mr. King, the retiring president of the Scottish Horticultural Associa- tion, by presenting him with a piece of plate, suitably inscribed, in recognition of his services to the association during the two years of his presidency. The presentation was made by Mr. John Phillips. In thanking the subscriber's, Mr. King referred to the pleasant asso- ciation he had had with all his colleagues on the council and with the members generally. He also announced that it gave him much pleasure to hand a sum of £10 to the Benevolent Fund of the Association. Appointment of Superintendent of the Manchester City Parks.— Following the recent death of Mr. Robert Lamb, super- intendent of the Manchester City Parks, the Parks Committee has been engaged in finding a suitable successor for the post, which carries with it a salary of £500 (without residence). In the preliminary stages the applications were re- duced to six, as follows : — Messrs. Anderson (London), Pettigrew (Cardiff), Bliss (Swan- sea), Ward (Shrewsbury), Curtis (Northamp- ton), Habbis (Stockport), Tuener (Ashton- under-Lyne), and M'Lennan (Manchester). The selected candidates appeared before a sub- committee of the Manchester City Council on Monday, the 18th inst., when a " short list " was drawn up, comprising the names of W. W. Pet- tigeew (Cardiff) and Daniel Bliss (Swansea). The final interview with Messrs. Pettigeew and Bliss took place on Tuesday last, when the choice fell upon Mr. Pettigeew, whose portrait is reproduced by the courtesy of the Agricul- tural Economist. The successful applicant is the eldest son of the late Andeew Petti- grew, who for many years was head gar- dener to the late Marquis of Bute at Cardiff Castle. He commenced his gardening career under his father in the Castle Gardens, and at the close of the year 1889 moved to the Royal MR W. W. PETTIGREW, SUPERINTENDENT OF THE MANCHESTER CITY PAEKS. Gardens, Kew. After spending little more than a year at Kew Mr. Pettigeew proceeded to Scotland in order to spend a period under the late Peter Fairgeieve, in the gardens at Dunkeld, the seat of the Duke of Atholl. Later he sought further experience at Culzean Castle, the residence of the Marquis of Ailsa, where David Murbay was very successfully cultivating hardy fruits. He was still at Culzean when Cardiff re- quired a park superintendent, and acting on the advice of his father Mr. Pettigeew became a candidate for the office, and, although but twenty-three years of age, was successful in ob- taining the appointment. The Marquis of Bute had just presented to Cardiff a site at Roath for the making of a public park. It was a narrow and long strip of land, intersected by roads in several places. How well Mr. Pettigeew suc- ceeded in transforming this site into a beautiful park is known to all who have visited Cardiff in recent years, for it is now the most popular rendezvous in the neighbourhood of the city. At the time of his appointment the park area at Cardiff was 120 acres, but it has since increased to upwards of 300 acres. Some five years ago, when the post of the Chief Officer of the London County Council parks be- came vacant, Mr. Pettigrew was one of three selected to interview the L.C.C. Parks Commit- tee. Manchester is to be congratulated on the choice it has made, for Mr. Pettigeew is pecu- liarly well fitted for the responsible position he is now called upon to fill, as is proved not only by his work at Cardiff, but also by his inspiring writings, published in this journal, on the sub- ject of public park management. His many friends will wish Mr. Pettigeew every success in his new post. American Sweet Pea Society.— The schedule of the American Sweet Pea Society's show, to be held at the Panama-Pacific Inter- national Exhibition on June 4, has been issued. The classes number 19, and trade growers are in- vited to exhibit non-competitive collections, for which medals will be awarded. A special Sweet Pea competition for children under 16 years of age, in which the prizes are offered by Messrs. C. C. Mobse and Co., San Francisco, will be held in the Educational Building on May 22. Forestry Appointments. —Mr. G. P. Gordon has been appointed Advisory Forest Officer for Scotland, attached to the West of Scot- land College. The salary is £350, with repay- ment of travelling and other expenses, or, to- gether, £500. Mr. James Feasee, assistant in Edinburgh University Forestry Department, had been appointed, in place of Mr. Goedon, lecturer on forestry at a salary of £250. The Panama Hat. — A note in the Journal of the Royal Society of Arts (January 15, 1915) reveals the source of the material of which Panama hats are or should be made. It is a species of stemless Screw-pine (Pandanus) of Ecuador, Colombia, and the headwaters of the Amazon. The straw is obtained from the leaves, which, after the removal of the veins, are dipped repeatedly in boiling water and then bleached in the sun. The answer to the ques- tion, " What makes you so wonderfully supple? " is doubtless found in this case in the boiling process. The Panama-Pacific Exhibition.— The American Florist describes, in a recent issue, the horticultural preparations which are being made for the Panama-Pacific Exhibition. The exhibi- tion opens on February 20. Some three-quarters of a million plants and bulbs have been or are about to be planted in the grounds. The first display is to have yellow as its dominant note, and will be provided by Tulips, Poppies, Pansies, Irises, Ranunculus, Calceolarias and Daffodils, the lower-growing plants backed by the taller. Before the yellow vision fades it is to change by horticultural magic to one of crim- son, the plants which conjure it being derived from greenhouses in the 24 gardens of the ex- hibition. The change is to take place between sunset and sunrise of a given day. Around the Japanese pavilion are gardens translated by the wizard wand of wealth " from the temple gar- dens of Nippon." They are to include 200 tons of moss-grown rocks. Thus may antiquity be purohased. Tree Ferns from Hawaii have already arrived. Our contemporary describes as an unusual landscape effect a " floral wall, four city blocks long, 20 feet in length and 6 feet, thick, built of Mesembryanthemuni in shallow boxes." The plant is to be " gemmed with dew- drops to catch the searchlights " — by means of a fine spray from water-pipes running along the top of the wall. Prizes will be on a corresponding scale. Thus, for a new unnamed Rose which hitherto has blushed unseen of exhibitions 1.000 dollars may be won. In the Palace of Horticul- ture a Cuban terrace garden will have pride of p]aCe — Royal Palms 70 feet high and Crcde Palms 50 feet will be surrounded by all manner of tropical fruit trees— Plantains, Alligator Pears, Cacao, Grape fruit, and all the vegetable pageant of the purple East. Only clean plains may enter the precincts, and to ensure their right of admission they must pass by way of the quarantine station and the fumigation sheds. For thoso weary of too much seeing, wide scope for talking will be provided by 300 congresses and conventions, of which number 42 are de- voted to agricultural anil horticultural subj eta. Of exhibitors from these islands our con- temporary montions Hugh Dickson, who show 58 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [JaNT/ABY 30, 1915. 13 varieties of new Roses; S. McGrady, Port- adown, Ireland, 11 varieties of Roses ; Bide and Son, Farnham, Surrey, new Roses; Dobbie and Son, Edinburgh, Roses; and Sander and Sons, St. Albans, 10,000 tuberous Begonias from Bel- gium. Bulletins on Fertilisers and Feed- Stuffs.— The Massachusetts Agricultural Ex- periment Station offers to send gratis to ap- plicants two bulletins— one on fertilisers, and the other on certain relatively new feed-stuffs. The fertiliser bulletin gives the analysis of and much proves the penetration of creosote into timbers which take the preservative with difficulty. The Manure Heap.— In addition to the loss of nitrogen which takes place in the manure heap exposed to weather (see Gardeners' Chronicle, January 16, 1915, p. 30), there is a considerable loss of potash. That loss, of particular import- ance at the present time, may amount to so much as 50 per cent, of the total. That is, of the 10 lbs. of potash contained in one ton of manure 5 lbs. are lost from a heap allowed to stand for three months. Bulletin 358 of the Ohio Agri- FlG. 18. — ACNISTUS MIERSII IN MONS. DENIS'S GARDEN AT HERAULT, FRANCE. general information on all fertilisers found on sale in the State of Massachusetts during 1914. The feed-stuffs described in the other bulletin are Molassine meal, cottonseed meal and hulls, cocoa shells, grain screenings, flax shives, Mellin's food refuse and Postum cereal residue (CXX. Feed). Either bulletin will be sent on application to the Massachusetts Agricultural Experiment Station. Amherst, Mass., U.S.A. Preserving Timber for Estate Pur- poses.—Experiments by Mr. J. F. Annand (Quarterly Journal of Forestry, July, 1914) show that the addition to pure creosote of a small quantity (^ per cent, or less) of caustic soda im- cultural Experiment Station, in commenting on the loss of potash .in the State of Ohio, estimates the total loss at not less than 100 million pounds and the loss of nitrogen and potash as equivalent to a loss of 2 million pounds sterling. There would appear to be scope for experiments in the direction of fixing the potash in th« manure heap. Calcium Cyan amide.— The distribution of cal- cium cyanamide on the land is a disagreeable pro- . cess, and hence many growers have abandoned the use of -this fertiliser. Experiments have shown, however, that in cases where a complete fertiliser is required the unpleasantness due to dust may be prevented by the following process- Having determined the amounts of cyanamide,. kainit and basic slag which are to be used, a layer of kainit is spread on the mixing floor, next a layer of cyanamide, and then one of TJasio slag. This is repeated several times, and the whole is then covered with basic slag to prevent absorp- tion of atmospheric moisture. After a day or so- the heap is turned so that the ingredients are. mixed thoroughly, and distribution on the land may be carried out any time within 12 days* from the making of the heap. The Kelp Industry in the Highlands. — The County Council of Inverness-shire has agreed to co-operate with Argyllshire in en- deavouring to revive the kelp industry in tha Highlands. It was resolved to communicate with the Scottish Board of Agriculture and the District Committees on the subject. Vegetables in British Guiana.- Mr. J- F. Waby, in an interesting article on the culti- vation of vegetables (see Journal of the Board of Agriculture of British Guiana, VIII., 1 and 2, 1914), mentions several legumes which do well in that country and are rare or unknown here. Inasmuch as certain of our common vegetables, and fruits, such as Beet, Dwarf Beans, Tomatos, Cucumber and Radish, appear to succeed in British Guiana, it may be that some of its vege- tables might prove successful here. Among them are mentioned Lima Beans (Phaseolus lunatus), which have been tried already in this country ; Bonavist Beans (Dolicho6 Lablab), which- occurs in dwarf and climbing form — -the- dwarf in small bushes 2 to 3 feet wide and yielding profusely. Of the climbing varieties D. L. nankinicus, with white- flowers, has short pods like those of Pea6, and Pea-like seeds of delicate flavour. Another variety, known because of its habit as Scarlet Runner (though its flowers are purple), is said to be the equal of the French Bean for table pur- poses, and may be eaten sliced or shelled, like the Bonavist Bean. The Goa Bean (Psophocair- pus tetragonolobus), called the Square Bean or Winged Bean, introduced from India, is a strong climber, with profuse flowers of a pretty blue colour. The fruit i6 square, 9 inches long and four-winged, and must be eaten when half- grown. A substitute for Spinach is provided by Xanthosoma atrovirens, known as Indian Ka.e. A Tomato-like fruit is obtained from the Okra (Hibiscus esculentus). Altogether British Guianav appears remarkably well supplied with vege- tables. FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE. ACNISTUS MIERSII. Acnistus Miersii (see fig. 18) is a Solana- ceous plant from Brazil that I have grown in the open for five years past. Otherwise, I think it is not in cultivation. It has pretty orna- mental leaves, but the flowers are not interest- ing. It has borne fruit twice. My friend, M. Maron, Orchid grower, of Brunoy, received some imported Laelia tenebrosa. He had the idea of raising any seeds which might happen to be in the compost which surrounded the roots, and obtained two interesting plants — Solanum pensile, of the group Dulcamara, and Acnistus Miersii. Solanum pensile proved to be tender and was killed by frost during ithe first winter. Acnistus Miersii was planted near a wall, where it grew vigorously. The stems were frozen during winter, but in spring the plant produced new growths. It has been in the 6ame spot for five years, and last winter withstood a frost of 13° C. The 6pecies flowers in Decem- ber, and the fruits may ripen if the weather is very mild. The flowers are produced in bou- quets, with short stalks, but are not very orna- mental. The large leaves look like those of some Splanums of the group verbascifolium. The plant shown in the background is Quercus Ilex. F. Denis, Baluruc-lcs-Bains, Hcrault, France. Jantjaky 30, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 59 POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (XII). I.E MARCHE DE COVENT GARDEN. Tout eta-anger arrivant sur le sol anglais est Srappe par la consommation enorme de fruits et de legumes qui est faite en Grande Bretagne. Des fruits, en nature comme dessert, ou en puree, en confiture, sont accessoires indi6pensables a tous les repas. L'agglomeration de Londres en t«- ■quiert des quantites enormes, et le commerce des produits horticoles y present© une impor- tance considerable. La production anglaise est insuffisante pour alimenter le pays, et des regions entieres but le Continent vivent de cultures liOTticoles qui ont pour but 1'exportation vers la Grande Bretagne. D'auta-e part, la possession de colonies dans tous les recoins du monde, le gout des voyages si pro- fondement ancre dans le peuple anglais, y ont fait connaitre et apprecier les produits exotiques. Aussi demande-t-on en Angleterre les fruits des pays les plus lointains, que ce soit d'Amerique, d'Australie, d'Afrique ou d'Asie. A ces divers titres, une visite a Covent Garden Market, a Londres, est particulierement interessante. Tout etranger y est amene par son guide ; a plus forte raison l'hortieulteur ne manque-tJl pas d'y oiler passer quelques heures, et si sa visite se fait a des heures pTopices, il emporte un sou- venir inoubliable du marche horticole le plus important qui soit au monde. Covent Garden ne se contente pas d'appro- visionner l'agglomeration de Londres. C'est en mame temps le grand marche distributeur pour les produits du Continent destines aux auta-es villes d' Angleterre, et dans de nombreux cas c'est lui qui pourvoit a l'approvisionnement du Continent en fruits d'outre mer. Covent Garden (a l'origine Convent Garden) ■constituait un jardin dependant de l'abbaye de Westminster, dont les biens furent confhques au couts de la reforme. Deja du temps d'Oliver Cromwell, quelques marchands avaient etabli leurs echoppes a l'emplacement actuel du marche, et en 1631 le Toi Charles II fit don de la propriety au Comte de Bedford. C'est dans la famille de ce dernier qu'elle resta jusqu'en 1913, lorsqu'elle fut vendue au depute Mallaby Deeley. La propriete renfemie non seulement le marche actuel mais de nombreuses maisoms voisines. Le reglement de police du marche est dresse par le proprietaire. II renferme vingt-cinq articles et prevoit des amendes variant de cinq a quarante schellings. Un grand tableau pendu a l'un des murs en rappelle les stipulations. La vente se fait par des agents ou commis- sionnaires, qui en retour de leurs offices prelevent tin salaire ou commission de 7 ou 8 pour cent. La vente aux encheres n'est guere pratiquee que pour les gros envois de produits exotiques. L'activite dans Covent Garden est surprenante. Aux premieres heures du jour c'est une veritable fourmiliere dans laquelle s'entremelent acheteurs, vendeurs, et leurs nombreux employes. Les em- placements etant tres couteux, ils eont Teduits au strict necessaire ; les passages sont encombres et tout transport se fait sur la tete. Ijes porteurs y ont acquis une habilete extraordinaire, des colis enormes sont souleves et delioatement deposes cur la tete avec une aisance qui fait songer a ces paysannes transportant au marche leur pa.nier plat .rempli de beurre, de fromage ou d'oeufs. Certains de ces porteurs enlevent, sans l'ombre d'une difnculte, des pyramides de paniers. atteignant 2 ou 3 metres de hauteur. II est interessant de jeter un coup d'oeil sur les nombreux produits mis en vente dans le grand Hall de Covent Garden. Les fruits de 6aison du Continent y trouvent un debouche assure. Les Fraises, Cerises, Abricots, Prunes du Midi y sont vendus en quantite, puis les Groseilles, Cerises, Prunes, Poires, Raisins beiges et hollandais leur succedent pour ceder une nouvelle place a la France pendant la saison des Calville, Passe Crassane et Doyenne d'Hiver. Tous ces produits se melent, selon les saisons, aux Oranges de Valence, aux RaisinB d'Almeria, aux Citrons de Messine, aux Dattes de Tunis et aux Figues de Smyrne. Dans le domaine des legumes, les memes car- reaux ecoulent des arrivages enormes d'Asperges d'Argenteuil, de Melons de Cavaillon, de Fraises de Montauban, de Pois, Haricots verts et Laitues de Chateaurenard, de Choux- fleurs de St. Pol, de Pommes de terre d'Alger, de Chicoree de Bruxelles, de Concombres et de Tomates de Hoek van Holland. (A suivre.) NOUVELLES DIVERSES. "La Revue Horticole" vient de reprendre sa publication apres une interruption de quatre mois. Notre excellent confrere parisien a publie un numero pour le mois de Janvier, un autre le sera egalement en fevrier, et des le mois de mars il reprendra sa periodicite bimensuelle. Le numero du 16 Janvier annonce la mort, sur le champ de bataille, de MM. Pierre Roger, administrateur de la librairie agricole, et Fernand de Conde, second du directeur de la station d'essais de machines agricoles. Le Marche Parisien.— A diverses reprises nous avons fourni des renseignements sur le marche horticole a Paris. En aout et septembre les arriva.ge6 de province etaient suspendus, les voies ferrees etant toutes requises pour les transports militaires. La region de Paris eut a fournir seule les approvisionnements necessaires et cependant les prix furent exceptionnellement ■bas. Actuellement les fruits sont a tres bon compte par suite de l'impossibilite de les amener a Paris dans la premiere periode de la guerre. Les fleurs de Nice sont assez rares, une bonne partie des arrivages etant destines a l'Angle- terTe. Le Marche Horticole en Hollande.— La hausse signalee en ce qui concerne les Choux cabus se maintient. Les produitfe de qualite specialement. se vendent a prix eleve. La de- mande pour l'Allemagne reste tres ferme mais l'on se plaint du nombre restreint de wagons fermes. Ce materiel semble requis pour les transports militaires allemands, beau- coup plus qu'il y a quelques semaines. Les Oignons sont egalement tres chers. Les derniers Choux-fleurs s'ecoulent a bas prix. En ce qui concerne les fleurs, la baisse prevue apres les achats de la Noel s'est produite, les Lilas notam- ment qui constituent la speciality d'Aalsmeer s'obtiennent a des conditions tres favorables. De source allemande on signale a notre confrere De Tuinbouw qu'on attire l'attention des horticul- teurs allemands sur les inconvenients de l'etat actuel du marche financier avec la Hollande. Des exportateurs neerlandais dans les cata- logues envoyes en Allemagne indiquent lours prix en mark6. Lors du payement les acheteurs se voient obliges de majorer leurs depots de 10 pour cent. Un compte de 200 marks s'eleve em realite a 220. La Petite Culture en Allemagne.— La crise causee par la guerre fait tourner l'attention des economistes allemands vers la petite culture. A bref delai 3,000 " morgen," soit environ SCO hectares, de terrains non cultives situes dans la banlieue de Berlin seront repartis en 18,000 lots de facon a constituer autant de petites exploita- tions d'environ 4 ares. Chacune de ces exploita- tions sera consacree a la culture maraichere et specialement a la production des Pommes de terre. La Mort de M. Hye de Crom. — Nous avons annonce dans notre numero du 16 Janvier le deoes de M. Jules Hye de Crom. Nous venons d'apprendre que 1'eminent orchi- dophile gantois est tombe victime des oppresseurs allemands. Voici les circonstances dans les- quelles, d'apres un confrere, s'est produit l'evene- nient fatal. Les Allemands ayant Tequisitionne du vin chez M. Hye, et en ayant goute plus que de raison, devinrent malades. Le6 Prussiens ■croyant avoir ete victimes d'un empoisonnement, le chef de la maison, le fils Hye et cinq employes, f.rent emprisonnes dunnt inq jours, attendant d'etre fusilles. Une analyse chimique desvinsde- montTa heureusement la parfaite innocence des prisonniers. Peu de jours apres le celebre orchidophile expirait victime des angoisses en- durees et des brutalites subies lors de son arresta- tion. Le Commerce Horticole et la Contre- bande de Guerre.— Nous avons eu l'occasion de signaler deja que l'Allemagne continue d'im- porter de grandes quantites de produits horticoles hollandais. II semble que la aussi les Allemands saisissent l'occasion pour introdnire de la con- trebande de guerre. La douane hollandaise vient en effet de saisir, en gare de Venlo, un wagon de Choux-fleurs dans lequel etait cachee une assez forte quantite de cuir. Un Allemand, em- ploye au chemin de fer, a ete arrete. Venlo est une petite ville du Limbourg hollandais, oil la culture maraichere a pri6 une grande importance. La majeure partie de sa production est ecoulee dans les villes de la Ruhr, le grand bassin in- dustriel allemand, qui se trouve a quelques lieues seulement de la frontiere. L' Agriculture Nouvelle.— Dans un ar- ticle recent*, l'academicien Rene Bazin, l'auteur du Retour a la terre, signale le role que l'agriculture et l'horticulture auront a, remplir apres la guerre en France. L'enseignement de la culture maraichere notamment meritera d'etre developpe, les ecoles seraient vite peuplees, "on trouverait des exemples en Hollande, et on en eut trouve en Belgique, il y a cinq mois," dit il. Nous ajouterons que la Belgique renais6ant de ses cendres, aura a coeur de reconstruire tout ce qui, chez elle, meritait d'etre imite par les nations amies. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. De markt van Covent Garden te Londen is zeer belangwekkend voor den vreemdeling. Het is de grootste tuinbouwmarkt in Engeland waar zooveel fruit, groenten en bloemen vereischt worden. Covent Garden hoort een bijzondere toe die er de politieverordeningen heeft van vast- gesteld. Ongemeen bedrijvig is het er en alles wordt op den kop gedragen, daar de doorgangen zeer smal zijn. M. Hye de Crom -waarvan we over veertien dagen het overlijden meldden, is te Gent gestorven ten gevolge van de barbaarschheid der duitsche overweldigers te zijnen opzichte. In Parijs zijn de tuinbouw-voortbrengselen Binds het begin van den oorlog doorgaar.s goed- koop geweest. In Holland blijft de toestand goed, dank aan de flinke aanvraag uit Duitsch- land. Echo 0 francs. editorship of MM. Bois and Grignan (the editor and secretary respectively of the Revue Horti- cole), some forty well-known gardeners, land- scapists, nurserymen, park superintendents, botanists, entomo'ogists, mycologists, meteor- ologists, agronomists, and hot-water engineers have collaborated in producing a well-printed, well-written and well-illustrated volume ait the low price of 10 francs. The work itself is divided into six parts. Part I. opens with an excellent calendar of operations for every month of the year, and also deals with chapters on the anatomy and physi- ology of plant life; the chemistry and physics of gardening ; the influence of climatic conditions ; Hop6, fruit trees, etc. All these have been dealt with, and remedies are given for their prevention or suppression. As there is unfortunately no in- dex to the work it is not easy to find out the reference to any particular disease without having to wade through almost the whole of this section. Under popular (French) names, how- ever, several fungous diseases are given in alpha- betical order, and here it is much more easy to find what is wanted. It is interesting to note that the American Gooseberry mildew which is giving so much trouble in the British Isles, Sweden, Denmark and Germany, seems to ihave left France almost alone, as it is referred to in only two or three lines. Fig. 20. — chrysanthemum GENERAL SMITH DORRIEN CHESTNUT. FLOWERS ROSY-RED SHADED WITH insect pests and fungous diseases ; propagation ; the soil ; Mendeli6m, hybridisation and selection, as becometh an up-to-date treatise on scientific and practical gardening. The "maladies" of plants are dealt with by M. L. Mangin in a systematic way, each troublesome fungus being placed in its Natural Order. Thus the Myxomycetes give us the "club-root" of the Brassicas ; the Oomy- cete6, the Potato disease and some of the vine mil- dews ; the Basidiomycetes, the rust and smut of cereals and other crops ; the A6comycetes, the leaf-curl of Peaches and the terrible Botrytis or Sclerotinia that plays havoc with so many dif- ferent kinds of plants, as well as other fungi that attack vines, Roses, cereals, trees and shrubs, The insect pests also are arranged in their natural families, and are dealt with by M. Pierre Lesne, of the Paris Natural History Museum. The second part of the work is devoted to fruit culture, and is dealt with ably in some 150 pages by M. Nomblot, of the National School of Horti- culture. The preparation of the soil, sites and situations, planting, drainage, manuring, prun- ing, propagation, training, and all tho details necessary to achieve success in fruit growing, either in the garden or orchard, are lucidly ex- plained, in greater detail perhaps than is cus- tomary in English manuals on fruit culture. In a French gardening book it is, of course, natural to find kinds of fruit trees written about that are not generally grown in Britain — at least, 66 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. not for the value of their fruit. The greater size of France and its several climates will explain the cause of this. Thus the Loquat, the Spanish Chestnut, the Diospyros, the Pomegranate, the Olive, the Orange and the Pistachia are among fruits that are apparently worth growing in parts of France. In Part III. of the work the kitchen (rarden and vegetables generally occupy an important position, and 80 pages are devoted to them. M. Meunier leads off with articles on the best place for vegetable growing, the treatment of the soil, manures, early borders, and the use of lights and cloches. Then come the most important vege- tables and herbs, in alphabetical order, the de- scriptions and cultural operations being the work of MM. Vilmorin and Andrieux. Here, again, we find included in the vegetable section many plants that we either neglect altogether or con- sider under other headings. Thus the Pineapple follows Garlic and the Alkekenge (Physalis), and comes before Angelica and Good King Henry. The Dandelion, Water Chestnut (Trapa naitan6), and the Black Solanum also come in for some notice ; and it may be interesting to those who regard the last named as deadly poison that it may be used in the same way as Spinach. In- deed, it is stated that the Creoles who visit France search for it and eat it as they do at home. Thi6 plant, also known as the Wonder- berry of the United States, is easily raised from seeds (the authors state), and no one will cavil at the statement. This year I could have sup- plied bushels of splendid, healthy, self-sown plants to any Creoles who wanted them. The more important vegetables, like Onions, Potatos, Carrots, Parsnips, Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Peas, Beans of all kinds, Leeks, Beet, etc., are all treated with the attention they deserve. Following the vegetable section comes the fourth and largest part of the work — that deal- ing with ornamental plants and trees, and occupying over 380 pages of text. An introduc- tory chapter on the botanical descriptions and characters of the different families of plants is given by M. D. Bois, the system followed being that of De Candolle, with slight modifications to fit in with the classification of Bentham and Hooker. In this ornamental plant section the alpha- betical arrangement is adhered to, and as both the French and botanical names are given, there is no difficulty in finding any particular genus. It is a, debatable point, however, whether it would not have been better for the authors to have split this part of the work up into several distinct sections instead of putting annuals, biennials and herbaceous perennials (both tender and hardy) in the same boat as trees and shrubs, stove and greenhouse plants, Conifers, alpine 'plants, Bromeliads, bulbs, Ferns, Orchids, Palms, water and bog plants, etc. It strikes one at first as a little strange to find these various groups of plants mixed up in alphabetical order, but as they are easy enough to find in their proper places perhaps the utility of the scheme may be said to outweigh any disadvantages it possesses from an educational standpoint. In Part V. everything appertaining to the tools, implements, and mechanical contrivances used in gardening operations is discussed, from flower-pots and labels to mowing machines, greenhouses, hot-water apparatus, etc. Many ingenious contrivances are described, and there seems to be a greater wealth of appliances alt the disposal of the French gardener than at that of his British confrere. A perusal of the work would therefore be of much interest to prac- tical men in this country. The sixth and concluding part of the Bon Jar- dinier deals in some 40 pages with the art of landscape gardening, carpet bedding or mosa- culture, alpine gardens and rockeries, and the making and up-keep of lawns. Numerous plans and views of landscape art are given, and the principles of laying out an ornamental garden are fully discussed by the well-known landscape gardener, M. Rene Edouard-Andre. /. W. [Februabt 6, 1915. rhcWcckfsWork.j^ FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Apr ICOT8.— Where an early supply of fruits is desired or in districts where the climate is uncongenial, it is necessary to afford Apricots the protection of a glass structure, whether heated or otherwise. Apricots need plenty of sunshine and air. Unheated houses should be covered with protecting material in cold weather, when the trees are in flower. When the first blooms appear do not allow the temperature to fall much below 40° and admit air freely by both the top and bottom ventilators. To ensure pollination of the blossoms they should be gently brushed with a rabbit's or hare's tail fastened to a stick, about noon on each day. Immediately the fruits have set, syringe the trees at least once a day. Figs.— Trees that were started in the New Year are bursting into growth, and the tem- perature should be increased slightly. Increased supplies of water should be afforded the roots, as well as moisture in the atmosphere, and, for both purposes, the temperature of the water should exceed slightly that of the house. Not- withstanding that the sun is gaining in power, the air outside may be very cold ; therefore ventilation must be done with caution. The temperature at night should not exceed 60°. Guard against infestations of red spider, which at this early stage spreads rapidly in a dry atmosphere. If the presence of this insect is detected, sponge the leaves with a weak solution of soap and water. Stop the shoots at the fourth leaf, and remove all weak and useless growths. Vinery.— Preparations should be made for starting such Grapes as Muscat of Alexandria and Gros Colmar, as these require a long season of growth. In the case of the Muscat varieties a temperature of 50° will be sufficient at the start, increasing the amount of warmth as growth advances. There seems to be great diversity of opinion as to whether the rods should be syringed or not. Still, if this is done with tepid water until they start into growth no evil effects are likely to result. Vines that were started earlier are advanced sufficiently to commence dis- budding. The surplus shoots should be removed gradually, retaining those that are showing good bunches, and well placed on the rod. The work of tying the shoots should be performed in the mornings or early part of the day, as then they seem to be more pliable. Do not attempt to draw the shoots down in position too early, pro- vided they are clear of the roof-glass. The stopping of the shoots will require daily atten- tion, and the exact place of stopping must be determined in the first instance by the space to be occupied. As a general rule they should be stopped at the second leaf beyond the bunch. THE FLOWER GARDEN. Bv A. J. Cobb, Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duffryn, South Wales. Dahlia.— A sufficient number of old roots for stock purposes should be placed in a house having a temperature of about 60°. Individual roots and varieties vary considerably in their yield of shoots, it being sometimes possible to procure as many as fifty cuttings from a strong clump, while in some cases it is difficult to obtain a dozen. Dahlia tubers are not very exacting in their requirements, and may be placed on a bed, preferably over a mild bottom heat, or in boxes. A mixture of partly decayed leaves and sand is the best material to place around the roots, leaving uncovered the top of the tuber near the stem. They may also be covered entirely with sand, but in that case more attention is required to keep the material moist. When leaves and sand are employed one copious watering will generally suffice, but spraying should be done frequently. In suit- able conditions, such as is provided by a strong, moist, bottom heat over evaporating troughs, cuttings will form roots in ten to fourteen days. Prepare boxes containing about 6 inches in depth of sand, in which to plunge the pots with the cuttings. When the growths are from 3 inches to 4 inches long, sever them with a clean cut just below a joint; — not with a heel, as this would entail the sacrifice of future cuttings — and insert them singly in thumb pots filled with a mixture of loam, leaf-mould, and sand, _ sprinkling sand on the surface to minimise the danger from damping. After one good watering, it will only be necessary to damp the cuttings frequently by means of a fine spray. Shade the cuttings from strong sun- shine, and, as soon as they are rooted, remove them from the propagating boxes or bed and gradually inure them to cooler conditions and more air. Repot the plants when they are ready for a shift, keep them free from insect pests, never allow them to suffer from drought, and always aim to secure sturdy growth. Seed Sowing.— Examine seed packets occa- sionally so that nothing may be overlooked when the time for sowing arrives. By using judgment in sowing it will be possible to so arrange that there will not be an excessive amount of prick- ing off to do at one time. Seedlings had far better be a few days late than become drawn and weak in the seed-pan for the want of timely attention. Plants that should be raised from seeds sown in heat now include fibrous-rooted Be- gonias, Lobelias, Verbenas, Marguerite Carna- tions, Cineraria maritima and Centaurea candi- dissima, Delphiniums Queen of the Blues and Porcelain Blue, which are pretty in the mixed or "blue" border, and do well treated as half- hardy annuals. Lupinus polyphyllus, a fine perennial, responds to the same treatment. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. - By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire). Planting. — Almost all kinds of fruit tree may be planted in February provided the con- dition of the soil is favourable and the weather open. Make the holes wide enough for the roots to be spread out their fullest extent, and before planting trim the roots, cutting back sound wood all that are broken or injured, but refraining from removing any of the smaller or fibrous roots. In some cases it may be neces sary, owing to the nature of the soil, to plant the trees entirely in a prepared compost, and even where the soil is favourable, fine material, such as old potting soil, should be shaken amongst the roots. Make the soil firm by treading, but in doing this take care not injure the roots by bruising or tearing then from the tree. Work the soil close to and well under the roots to fill every space. After the trees have been planted, allow sufficient time for the soil to settle. Then, in the case of wall trees, head them back or prune to the required shape, and secure the branches neatly to the walls or wires. After young standard, pyramid and bush trees have been pruned, secure them neatly to stakes, placing a piece of sacking or other suit- able material between the stem of the tree and the stake. Many trees are spoiled by lack of attention to this seemingly small, yet important, matter. The next operation is watering the soil to settle it about the roots, and finally, cover- ing the surface, so far as the roots extend, with half -decayed manure or turf parings. Strawberries.— If the making of fresh plantations of Strawberries was delayed last autumn with a view to undertaking the work this spring, the necessary preparations for planting should be attended to at once. Therefore, ' as soon as the soil is in a condition for working and the weather favourable, get the ground dug with all possible speed. Heavy and retentive soils should be dug deeply or trenched, but not in such a manner as to bring an undesirable sub- soil to the surface. The addition of grit, shingle, or clean gravel to heavy soils will im- prove the texture of the eround and allow the air to enter freely, benefiting the roots by the increased warmth. Runners, growing in cold frames for the purpose, should be cleared of decaying foliage and not allowed to become dry at the roots. February 6, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 67 PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. JORDAN, Gardener to Lady Nunbchnholme, Waiter Priory, Yorkshire. Cyperus alternifolius.— This plant is easilv raised from seed or the stock may be in- creased by division of the roots. Use small pots and 'light soil, to which a liberal sprink- ling of sand is added. Plunge the cuttings in a moderate bottom heat. Keep the plants moist and remove stems should they develop on the variegated variety. Solanum Capsicastrum. — The cuttings should be inserted early, otherwise, despite all that may be done later, there will not be time enough for the berries to ripen early next autumn. It is preferable to propagate the plants from cuttings rather than trom seeds, as then the grower can select his stock from plants that fruit freely and are of the best habit. If there is plenty of room in the glass-houses strike the cuttings separately in small pots in a moderate temperature, and stand the pots closely together, as the leaves are not liable to damping. Dip the cuttings in an insecticide if they are infested with insects, but wash them in clean water again before inserting them in the soil. Bouvardia.— As in the case of the Solanum, :t is a matter of the first importance to propagate Bouvardias as early in the year as possible. Stock plants, which have been cut back, should be placed in gentle heat, well soaked with water and syringed overhead once or twice daily. Stand the plants where they will receive plenty of light, in order that the shoots may not grow spindly. Begonia.— The newer type of winter-flowering Begonias is a great acquisition. As the plants pass out of flower they should be watered with extra care until they are partially dried off, for they need only sufficient moisture to retain the leaves fresh until April, when the amount of water may be again increased with a view to securing suitable shoots for cuttings. Begonias of the Gloire de Lorraine type should be cut down after flowering, watered occasionally, and rested for a short period, until cuttings are required. Tuberous-rooted varieties should be grown in gentle heat, to be repotted later, and afterwards used for conservatory decoration. Potting.— Many plants that have remained dormant in winter commence to grow again in February, and their potting should be no longer delayed. See that materials, including loam, peat, leaf-mould and sand, are got in readiness, in order that the work may be done without delay. The operation of potting plants is generally well understood and simple enough, yet it is necessary to remind some that plants should not be shifted either when the roots are dry or excessively wet, and that clean pots and clean crocks should be used. Disentangle the roots carefully, and remember that small shifts give the best results. Pot hard-wooded plants firmly. After one good watering be sparing with the water-can for a time, keeping the soil moist by syringing the plants, stages and all bare spaces, for a humid atmosphere will assist in retaining moisture in the soil. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Vanda and Its Allies. — Most Vandas, Aerides, Angraecums and Saccolabiums that are grown in warm houses are in active growth, therefore the work of repotting or re-surfacing may be done during the present month. Re- surfacing, which should be done annually, con- sists in removing the old soil to a depth of 2 or 3 inches and replacing the portion removed by a mixture nf Sphagnum-moss and Osmunda-fibre. In course of time the plants become leggy through the loss of their lower leaves ; such old plants should be shortened by cutting through the stems when they are repotted. An ordinary flower- pot is preferable to a basket, as in the former receptacle the plant is more easily managed, and the roots not injured to such an extent when re- potting is done. The receptacle as well as the material used for drainage should be quite clean. Having selected a plant for repotting, proceed to pick away the old compost, and, if roots cling to the sides of the pot, carefully release them by means of a sharp knife. Remove all dead roots, and cut through the stem, seeing that the upper part is furnished with roots. Arrange a few large crocks in the bottom of the pot, place the plant in the centre, and work in as many roots as is possible. Add more broken potsherds, small nodules of charcoal, and finally a mixture of chopped Sphagnum-moss and good fibrous peat or Osmunda-fibre. The appearance of the plants will be much improved if a few live heads of Sphagnum are incorporated with the last layer of the compost, while the moss will serve to keep the roots cool and moist. All the tall-growing kinds of these Orchids need the support of a stake until they are re-estab- lished. Roots will develop from the stems above the pot, and as they lengthen it is advisable to guide them to the compost, when in time they will enter the soil. The more roots treated in this way the better, for not only will the plants retain their bottom foliage for a longer period, but they can be moved without injury. After re- potting, water the compost sufficiently to wet the whole of it down to the drainage, so that more moisture will not be needed for several days afterwards. When the Sphagnum-moss on the surface becomes dry moisten it with a fine rose watering-pot, for by this means it will be kept growing. All newly-potted plants should be protected from strong sunlight, and grown in a humid, warm atmosphere. Remove the flower- spikes of weak plants at an early stage. Although the majority of these Orchids need to be grown in a warm house, there are a few exceptions, notably Aerides Vandarum, A. japonicum, and Angraecum falcatum, which should be grown at the warmer end of the cool or Odontoglossum house. Others that will thrive in the inter- mediate and Cattleya houses include Vanda Kimballiana, V. Amesiana and Aerides Field- ingii, while Vanda suavis and V. tricolor are sometimes grown in these houses. In other re- spects the treatment should be the same as for the more tropical sorts, except that the work of repotting or top-dressing them may be deferred a few weeks. Vanda teres, V. Hookeriana and the variety Miss Joaquim, which is a derivative of these two species, give the best results when grown in a sunny position, where they may be sprayed frequently with tepid water during' the growing season. The front or end of the plant stove is often utilised for these particular plants, no extra shade being necessary. When growth is completed, discontinue spraying, and keep the plants comparatively dry at their bases. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Globe Artichokes.— The plants have grown freely throughout the winter and will require protection during times of frost. But the pro- tective material should not be applied in mild weather, or the suckers will become drawn and of little value, either for producing a crop or for making fresh plantations. For "this crop select a deep, rich, well-drained soil, and if the sets are to be planted in the spring let the ground he trenched to the depth of 2 feet and enriched with plenty of farmyard manure. The surface should be rough and as loose as possible until the beginning of April, when strong-rooted suckers should be ready for planting. Batavian Endive.— Plants should be lifted from the open and placed in a cold pit or bouse with as little delay as possible. Lift the roots with a good ball of soil and place them close together. They will keep fresh for some con- siderable time. The latest plants may be trans- planted carefully in a cold pit and well watered to settle the soil about the roots ; these should provide a supply of leaves throughout the spring. The stems may be blanched by placing sheets of clean paper or similar material over the foliage for about ten days, or plants may be forced in the Mushroom house with good results. Mint and Tarragon.— A regular supply of green Mint and Tarragon may be had throughout the coming spring by forcing the roots on a mild hot-bed. A bottom-heat of 70° is suitable, and this may be produced in any cold pit by a bed of leaves, which should be covered with a small quantity of sifted leaf-mould. When the roots are placed in position spread sifted leaf-mould over them to the depth of 1 inch, and water them with tepid water. Early Peas.— In most districts the weather has been altogether unfavourable for the sowing of Peas in warm borders, and where the work has not been done it is necessary to sow at once in 4-inch pots, so that good stocky plants may be available for planting in March. It is a com- mon error to grow the plants in too much heat at the start, which causes them to become weak and tender and unable to withstand cold winds when they are planted hi the border. The best method is to place the pots in a cool pit or frame from which frost can be excluded, for although the seeds will take longer to germinate than in a higher temperature, the plants will be more robust and better suited for planting out-of- doors. Half fill the pot with rich loam, place six Peas in each receptacle, and then fill the pot to the rim with soil. Guard against mice, which would soon destroy the crop. Little Marvel and The Pilot are suitable varieties for planting now. THE "FRENCH" GARDEN. By P. Aquatias. Hot - Beds.— The unfavourable weather in January prevented hot-beds from being made, and many growers have only commenced the work this week. The delay, so far, has been com- pensated by the dry, though cold weather which followed the rains, for the slight frosts were not detrimental to the building of the hot-beds, and greatly facilitated the planting of Lettuces in the frames. A layer of manure, nine inches deep, is ample for any hot-beds made after the first week of February, and even less depth would suffice for the beds to be utilised for the growing of crops under cloches, which are formed after those for the frames are completed. The use of hot-beds for cloches is somewhat to be deprecated, and this system has been dis- carded in several " French " gardens. It must be admitted that the attention to a crop of Cos Lettuce, mixed as it is with Cabbage Lettuces and Carrots, requires more time than do any crops grown in frames, yet it may be said that no other plot in a garden pays better. Cos Lettuce does not lend itself to undue forcing, it is also liable to suffer a check from extremes of temperature. These difficulties are overcome by using long, dry manure, which ferments slower than wet, short dung. A layer of black soil. 4 to 6 inches deep, will afford a suitable rooting medium, and also keep the roots from being injured by excessive bottom heat. The plants to be set should he extra large and well furnished with roots, and they should have been transplanted several times in the nursery beds from October to January. Plant one Cos Let- tuce arid two Cabbage Lettuces under each cloche, and make an aperture in the soU with the closed fist under each side of the rim of the cloche, to afford ventilation and_ prevent the temperature from rising too high in bright weather. Covering the cloches with mats when the glass is white with frost helps to maintain an even temperature, but the covering should, be removed as soon as thawing begins. Plant the second batch of Cos Lettuces in the interval between each cloche, on the south side of each row, 10 or 12 days afterwards. These plants need not be so strong as those of the first batch. Lettuces in the frames will develop rapidly this month, but they should be kept scrupulously clean. Fill the paths between the frames with well broken manure at an early date. Roll the mats carefully, and allow them to remain in the path during" the day, to be spread at night when frost threatens. Crops in the Open.- Seeds of both long- and round-rooted Radishes, also Spinach, may be inserted when the ground is in a suitable condi- tion. Lettuces White Passion and All the Year Round may be planted out-of-doors in gardens in the South and West of England ; in colder districts it is preferable to delay sowing until rally in March. February is the best month to stir the ground where Spring Cabbages are planted, applying a dressing of nitrate of soda. The rapid development of the leaves may pre- vent these operations if the work is postponed until March. 68 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 6, 1915. EDI TORIAL NOTICE. ADVEBTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41. Wellington Street, Covent Garden. W-C- Editors and Publisher- — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing 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 Editors. The two departments, Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed. Special Notice to Correspondents- — The Editors do not undertake to pay for any contribu' tions or illustrations, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement. The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for any opinions expressed by their correspondents. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 6— Royal Scottish Arboricultural Soc. Ann. Meet, at Goold Hall, St. Andrew Square, Edinburgh, at 1 p.m. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 8— The Surveyors' Institution, discussion on " The Report of the Land Inquiry Committee on, Urban Land Tenure," at 8 p.m. B.G.A. (Watford Branch) meet. Lectures by Messrs. Newman and Leslie on " Gardeners' Friends and Enemies." TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9— Roy. Hort. Soc. Ann. Meet., at 3 p.m. Average Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 39.0. Actual Temperatures :— London, February 3 (6 p.m.) : 52°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London : Thursday, February 4 (10 a.m.) ; Bar. 29.4 ; Temp. 56°. Weather.— Fine. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY— Perennials and Herbaceous Plants, Liliums, etc., by Protheroe and Morris, 67 and 68, Cheapaide, London, at 12. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY NEXT— Rose Trees, Perennials, Shrubs, and Bulbs, etc., at Stevens' Rooms, 38, King Street, Covent Garden. MONDAY— Roses, toy Protheroe and Morris, at 1. WEDNESDAY— Fruit Trees, Roses, Azaleas, etc., by Protheroe and Morris, at 1 THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. FRIDAY— Roses and Shrubs, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. One of the most para- piant Foods doxical of the recent dis. and Poisons. coveries in plant physio- logy is ' that those mineral substances which are known to be essential to the nutrition of plants may also exercise a poisonous effect. The classical example of this fact was discovered long ago by Loew, who showed that although magnesium is an essential plant food yet in the absence of calcium even moderate supplies of magnesium salts are toxic to plants. Or to put the matter in another way magnesium is at once a food and a poison, and calcium is an antidote to that poison. Similarly, it has been shown that the ubiquitous sodium compounds may act as plant poisons, but that calcium again acts as an antidote. These experiments were extended by Osterhout, who, working with marine plants, demonstrated that each of the salts of sea water is poisonous when it alone is present, but that in the natural mixture of salts in sea water the several toxic of the individual salts cancel out, and make of sea water a physiologically-balanced nutritive solution for marine plants. Similar facts are known to obtain with respect to animal nutrition, and it may be that therein lie the re- markable therapeutical effects which follow in certain cases from injection of sea water into the blood-system of human beings. The interesting theme of the toxicity and anti-toxic effects of mineral salts has been investigated recently by Mr. M. McCoot,* who has extended his en- quiry to include salts of calcium, potas- sium, sodium, ammonium, magnesium, strontium, and barium. Beside finding that calcium antidotes each of these poisonous substances, Mr. McCoot also discovers that they may be arranged in mutually antagonistic pairs. Thus an- tagonism and hence neutralisation of poisonous individual effects occur between magnesium and strontium, sodium and potassium, and so on. The facts are not without bearings on practice. For example, it is claimed by some experimenters that the use of kainit — a mixture of potassium sulphate, mag- nesium sulphate, and magnesium chloride ■ — produces a larger yield when it is ap- plied in autumn than when it is applied in spring ; the difference being, perhaps, due to the washing out from the soil by winter rains of the injurious magnesium salts. The most striking conclusion, however, is that calcium is the most general anti- dote, for it supplies an explanation of the high value which attaches to the use of lime in the field and garden. Gardeners and farmers discovered long ago the value of lime. Men of science have been labour- ing after practice and suggesting one reason after another to account for the beneficent action of lime. In the mean- time gardeners and farmers have to some extent neglected to continue the old prac- tice of marling. The moral is clear that whatever be the source or sources of the virtue which resides in lime the gardener must go on with and extend the practice of liminp: his land. Supplementary Illustration.— The two varieties of Roses illustrated in the Coloured Supplement are both new Hybrid Teas of British raising ; British Queen was raised by Messrs. S. McGredy and Son in the North of Ireland and sent out in 1912, whilst Mrs. Andrew Carnegie was brought out by Messrs. J. Cocker and Sons in 1913. Both flowers are creamy-white ; in Mrs. A. Carnegie the cream is perhaps a little richer, approaching the lemon. Each has, as may be seen from the illustration, much beauty of form. In this respect Mrs. A. Car- negie has that more luxurious, ample and rounded form, so desired by exhibitors, while British Queen i6 less imbricated, lighter and more elegant. British Queen is indeed a most beautiful flower, and has the merit of displaying its beauty not only when disbudded and tended for exhibition, but also in its smaller flowers. In fact, this Rose possesses the attribute which is of no small value : that practically all its flowers are of beautiful form. This is a quality that should make its blooms popular for the decoration of the house. As a plant for the ornament of the garden it is of less value — at * Cornell University Experiment Station Memoir No. 2, August, 1913. least, northward of London — when grown as a dwarf. It is not that it hangs its head in the dejected manner of Bessie Brown, but its flowers are produced at the end of long side- shoots which tend to grow rather horizontally than upwards, and thus the flower frequently hangs down. In order to correct this de- fect it may be well to grow the plant as a standard. Mrs. Herbert Stevens, another very beautiful white Rose, behaves in a rather similar manner when grown as a dwarf, and some get much the best results with this Rose as a standard. Yet in some gardens the plant de- velops a fine growth and holds its flowers with the best, and it may be that British Queen will show the like waywardness in the display of her charms. However that may be, British Queen is so beautiful a variety that it should be grown somewhere if not in the most prominent position, so that flowers may be available for cutting for the house. Of Mis. Andrew Carnegie, some are very pleased with the plant and have obtained good flowers, whilst others find the petals too thin and apt to " ball " like La France. Even as to growth there are different reports. Some consider it robust — that is, in the rosarian'6 language, rather short and thick-set ; another reports that it produces thin shoots 3 feet long, and that it is fairly free in, growth. It is said to have been raised from a cross between Niphetos and Frau Karl Druschki. It certainly does not form such long shoots as the autumn growths of the latter variety, but per- haps produces side-shoots more freely, and it possesses some fragrance. From its appearance at the shows, even in some of the amateur classes, it is clear that with a little care it will give good results, and with this attention it is so fine a Rose that many will wish to try whether it will suit their own particular district. Paeony La Lorraine. — In the note on Paeony La Lorraine (p. 56) Paeonia lutea was in- advertently described as herbaceous, probably owing to the fact that in many localities the plant retains only a very short stem, whilst often it is cut down by severe weather to the ground level. At the same time it should be pointed out that in more favourable situations even in this country P. lutea has a woody stem several feet in height, and it is only in such cases that the effectiveness of the species is fully displayed. Geo. Munro Concert.— The nineteenth annual " Geo. Munro " concert is to be held at Queen's Hall on the 18th inst. A number of well-known artistes will perform, and the band of the Coldstream Guards has also been en- gaged. The balance-sheet of the last concert, which was held at the end of February last year, shows that a profit of £122 5s. 5d. was made, of which £47 5s. was distributed to various charities and institutions, the balance, £75 Os. 5d., being carried forward. The Surveyors Institution.— A meet- ing of the Surveyors' Institution will be held in the Lecture Hall of the Institution on Mon- day, the 8th inst., when the adjourned discus- sion on the papers delivered by Mr. J. G. Heap (Fellow), and Mr. Joshua Bury (Fellow), on " The Report of the Land Inquiry Committee on Urban Land Tenure," will be reopened by Mr. J. D. Waixis (Member of Council). The chair will be taken at 8 o'clock. War Items. — We regret to learn that M. Pierre Rooer, directeur of La Librairie Atp'icole, of Paris, has been killed in action. The Botanical Society of Lyons, follow- ing the example of the National Horticultural Society of France, has struck off its list of mem- bership all the German societies with which it exchanged publications. Those of our readers who are acquainted with M. Henri Crepin, of Paris, will regret to. hear that his son was seriously wounded at Ypres two months ago, and that only during the past few days have the doctors pronounced him Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle." ROSES BRITISH QUEEN (ABOVE) \ND MRS. I. CAKNEftll (BKJ.OW) February 6, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 69 to be out of danger. M. Crepin is a well-known Chrysanthemum grower and exhibitor, and is the donor of the Crepin Challenge Cup., value 1,000 francs, winch is competed for at the Paris Autumn Shows. At a meeting of the Orchid Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society on the 2nd inst., Sir Harry Veitch, in moving a vote of condo- lence, referred in feeling terms to the loss which. Horticulture, and especially the Orchid world, had sustained by the lamentable death of M. Jules Hte de Crom, in the sad circumstances reported in the Gardeners' Chronicle, January 16, 1915, p. 33. Sir Harry Veitch said that the deceased gentleman was an old and re- spected bond between British and Belgian orchidists, and he had acted with many of them as a colleague at horticultural events in this country and on the Continent. Mr. J. Gurxey Fowler supported the motion, and tne hon. secretary was instructed to forward a letter of sympathy to the widow. The Board of Trade send us a communi- cation in which the attention of manufacturers, merchants and shippers is drawn to certain re- gulations governing the export of articles destined for the use of the French Government. Any firms accepting contracts without comply- ing with these regulations will do so at their own risk and with full knowledge that permis- sion to export the goods which they have con- tracted to supply may be refused. Applications for permission to export goods which are ordered by firms or individuals in France for purely in- dustrial purposes, and which are" not destined for the use of the French Government, will con- tinue to be made in the ordinary manner to the Commissioners of Customs and Excise, Customs House, E.G. Information on these matters may be obtained from the secretary, Commission In- ternationale de Bavitaillement, India House, Kingsway, W.C. Letter from Soldier Gardener. — We have received the following letter from a young soldier-gardener: — "Would any kind Teader be pleased to send the Gardeners' Chronicle to a gardener now serving with the colours, who, owing to lack of means, is unable to con- tinue to take it, yet wants to remain conversant with his profession? I would willingly pay post- age if address is enclosed in paper. — Pro- gressive." [The Gardeners' Chronicle has charged itself with the carrying out of the above suggestion, but prints the request with the object of indi- cating a means whereby those interested in young gardeners serving with the colours may do such men a kindly and useful service.] Agricultural Restoration of Belgium and North-Eastern France.— A committee has been formed for the purpose of supplying the war-ravaged areas of Belgium and North-eastern France with agricultural seeds. The committee, of which Mr. Edward Brown is secretary, has its offices at 39, Queen Anne's Chambers, West- minster, London, S.W. "Sweet Pea Annual."— The National Sweet Pea Society's Annual for 1915, forming tie eleventh volume, is a review of the Sweet Pea world during the past year. The most valuable part of the work consists of short articles by experts at home and abroad, dealing with the different phases of the flowers from, both the exhibitors' and growers' points of view. The greater part of the book is filled with details concerning the annual exhibition, the Reuort of the committee, classification lists, the account of the annual trials, and other matters of a more or less statistical nature, 60me of which has already been published. Mr. Thos. Stevenson advises growers of Sweet Peas for exhibition purposes to sow in pots from October 7 to 14, and a little earlier in the north, to thin the shoots to two or three, manure the ground liberally, and, in the case of light soils, to plant out-of-doors after the middle of March, deferring the planting for a little time if the ground is heavy. Mr. Steven- son emphasises the need for moisture at the roots in the summer, and recommends spraying overhead during hot weather. Mr. Cuthbeet- son's observations on axil colouring in Sweet Peas is a complement to a previous note on colour in the tendrils, for he find6 that colour in the tendril is always associated with colour in the axil, but his efforts to find a relationship in tho colour of the axil and that of the flower have been unsuccessful. The official trials of " streak " cures give no hope at present of a remedy for this widespread malady, for it is shown that not one of the preparations tested had any value in preventing or checking the disease. Presentation to Mr. George Bunyard. — Mr. George Bunyard, V.M.H., having re- signed the office of chairman of the R.H.S. Fruit and Vegetable Committee, the members of this committee (including Mr. William Poupabt, whose name will be added) have taken the opportunity to present him with an illumin- ated address, together with a diamond and sapphire gold pin. The presents were dis- played at the sitting of the committee on . \^rejfjl>- \inWjtitnni mrmfrrenf llx .ilw w t .irknowliiiorm/pjpf to/ aihuUi- wrpifls mibrriii pppon lo ilnr, ummidff far Ik [olio, Iknoo of £34knr.W pno afofl .n t teltcn of m tstttm afli rco-iro. for pouivlf pinomltp MI Donr rfhrfmnil from iW^I'.m m.ni'.hp of lfh-r Pit pip WpW. ^5 few tirtn Ibr yrioilfoi of moor of ns to'itm witi> m\ on ftn/,iommil!iY for ni.uut griivs inl> lot' orciri- to pLu'i" on iTcoro pnr .ippmi.itipn of ljv.uMf.mp nnp.iili;il nuji m rohirlt pon luop fonWtfb l(ip InMiWj in ont Hirer' of pour unfailing ronrtap .u .til hnic; ,1 1 •;»"> tt.„„o. (TfrW.M Wj.V.i„ f-.tfvcllfll .VMH i-r»„iui; IpCli.k.l'vMMI ''I. ,..: v. W< ii .. .ft'.,.,..1 for, ew.,'v> tlCfuiM „.«,. :.,,„, w;.:t.n.,|,f„.-i >fcj..i ,,M,|, .ft i ; (I u. Mi. , ll Jli,.l..,lf: (ii-ni'-'lu- uii >'&,!,..,. (i:t>:.„. '', l! tit S.cOiofti «i OtfAomM VMM ye, '..,..< yn:i„.i... .WU.,|, •>Y..i[r«,i.i. ,>•*'.»„)....,. i .it 'SvW,i S3 V,-...,t. i, W '■ ... I'ltTM^'/1 I9U 1 ADDRESS PRESENTED TO MR. BUNYARD BY THE MEMBERS OF THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE COMMITTEE. Tuesday last, and the presentation was made on Thursday last by a deputation. Mr. Bunyard, who has been a member of the committee for 35 yeare and chairman for the past 14 years, has retired from business. Our readers will join with us in hoping that he may soon regain his health, which has been indifferent in recent years. The Council has appointed Mr. C G: A. Nix as the mew chairman of the Fruit and Vege- table Committee. Eastbourne Public Parks and Gardens.— — Mr. Smith has resigned the office of gardener and parks superintendent to the Eastbourne Cor- poration after 30 years' service, and has been granted a pension. Mr. G. Burrows, for 10 years gardener at Shendish Park, King's Langley, has heeii appointed to succeed Mr. Smith. Black Rot of Tomatos.— The presence of hybernating mycelium of Macrosporium solani, the fungus which produces black rot in Tomatos, is described by Miss I. Massee in No. 4 of the Bulletin of the Soy.d Botanic Gardens, Kew. In affected seeds there occurs a thick weft of hyphae between the seed coat and the embryo. The embryos may also be penetrated by mycelium. Evidently no seed should be collected from infected plants. Ranunculus Seventy Years Ago. — This being the time for purchasing Ranun- culuses, I have the pleasure of sending you a list of twenty of the very best sorts in cultivation. Those comprised in it are, amongst Ranun- culuses, what such flowers as Polyphemus, Strong's King, or Rose Brilliant are among Tulips. Having for many years grown all the newest and best sorts in cultivation, I can speak confidently and advisedly : — Lightbody's. — Chimpanzee, white, rose-edged ; Lady Sale, white, rose spot; Dr. Lindley, white, rose mottle ; Lame, white, purple mottle ; Duke of Sussex, white, purple mottle; Grace Darling, white, rose-edged ; Queen Victoria, white, purple-edged ; Lictor, white, rose-edged ; Dr. Horner, white, purple-edged ; Talisman, white, purple-edged ; Constantia, yellow, red-edged ; Sir Wm. Hoste, yellow, red-edged. Tyso's. — Delectus, yellow, edjjed ; Dr. Horner, yellow, edged ; Flaminius, yellow, spotted ; Alexis, yellow, spotted; Cathcart, white, spotted; Pre- mium, white, spotted. Neilson's. — Mr. Neil- son's, white, crimson-edged. Costar's. — Coro- nation, buff, spotted. Ten Old Varieties, quite necessary for every bed comprising most of the different colours. — Naxa-ra, dark ; Adrian, Roi des Renoncules, yellow, Beroth, Jourdon, prim- rose ; Temeraire, white, striped ; Melange de Beaute, yellow, striped ; Duke of Bedford or Henriette, crimson ; Skiddaw, white ; Jean en Pompadore, olive. P.S. — Two of those in Mt. Lightbody's list I have not grown ; but, having had blooms politely sent me by Mr. L., I can bear record of their excellence. F. R. Horner, M.D., in Gardeners' Chronicle, Feb. 1, 1845. Gardeners Skill in a Word Competi- tion.—Mr. T. H. Bolton, gardener to the Earl of Devon, Powderham, has been successful in winning the 1st prize of £250 in a word com- petition organised by a weekly paper. In an interview with a representative of the paper Mr. Bolton stated that he has been in the ser- vice of no fewer than five Earls. A Novel " Spr ay- Adh e si ve." — It is claimed that an excellent " adhesive " for zinc arsenite sprays may be made by steeping sliced " Prickly Pears," Opuntia spp., in water. The mucilaginous extract obtained in this way is said to increase the adhesiveness of the spray fluid, and it is recommended (The American Florist, p. 134, January 16, 1915) to use for this purpose the extract obtained by soaking for a night 15 lbs. of sliced Cactus in 50 gallons of water. This amount is mixed with 3 lbs. of zinc arsenite. Though useless to growers in this country, orchardists in Australia and other countries in which the Opuntia is a nuisance may find a certain pleasure in trying to turn this plant to a useful purpose. Publications Received — Press Almanack and Directory of Guernsey, Alderney and Sark, 1915. (Guernsey : The Guernsey Press Co., Ltd.) Price 6d. — Gardeners' and Florists' Annual for 1915. Edited by J. Harrison Diek. (New York: A. T. de la Hare Co., Ltd.) Price 50 cents. — The Journal of the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden Guild. Vol. 1., Part I. (Edinburgh : Charles E. Hobbs, Calton Road.) — Inorganic Plant Poisons and Stimulants. By Winifred E. Brenchley (Cambridge University Press.) Price 6s.— The International Institute of Agriculture : Its Organisation, Work and Results. (Rome : Printing Office of the Institute.) — Bulletin of Agricultural and Commercial Statistics (1914) of the Interna- tional Institute of Agriculture, Rome. (Rome : Printing Office of the Institute) — Report of the Board of Park Commissioners, Spokane, Washington, 1891-1913. — Plum Culture in Ontario. By F. M. Clement. (Bulletin 220, Ontario Department of Agriculture, Toronto.) Comparisons of Some Chance Groupings with Mendel's Laws. By W. J. Millar. (Rothesay: M. Mackenzie, llotlicmiy Express Office.) 70 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 6, 1915. POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (XIII). LE MARCHE DE COVENT GARDEN. (Suite de la p. 59.) Mais entrez dans d'autres compartiments et voue l'aite6 connaissance avec des pays bien plus lointains. Les lies Canaries se rappellent con- etamment a l'attention, grace a leurs enormes quantites de Tomates, a leurs delicieuses Bananes; et on songe d'emblee a l'ingeniosite de ces insulaires qui pour l'emballage des fruits tirent un parti excellent des fibres, debris des plantes ayant produit le regime. Des lies relativement voieinee, les Acoree et Madere, baignees par le Gulf Stream qui leur donne un printemps eternel, sont representees par de suc- culents Ananas, vendus a des prix excessive- ment raisonnables. II y a quelques annef6 encore un grand nombre de nos chatelains depensaient dee sommes enormes pour assurer dans leurs serres chaudes la fructification de quelques plantes. Au dela de 1'Ocean, le Canada est un des grands fournifseurs de Covent Garden ; des navires entiers de Pommes et de Poires arrivent a Londres des que la production indigene est entamee ; des milliers d'hectaTes de vergers ont ete etablis dans la Nouvelle Ecosse, la Colombie britannique, en vue de 1'approvisionnement du marche anglais. L'emballage est la cais^e pour les Poires, la caisse ou le tonneau pour la Pomme. Les Etats-Unis amenent des quantites de Pommes et de Poires de CaJifornie et d'Oregon. Le premier de ces etats est aussi connu pour ses Oranges denommees " navels." Dane une chronique precedente nous avons vu toute l'importance qu'avait prise le commerce de fruits entre la colonic du Cap et Covent Garden. Inutile d'y revenir. Des regions qui ee trouvent dans des conditions a peu pres analogues eont celles d'Oceanie. La maturation des fruits e'y fait egalement durant notre hiver et deja des consignations enormes de Pommes d'Australie et de Tasmanie sont ecoulee6 a Covent Garden. Pour lee fruits mous tels que Raisins, des essais d'exportation ont ete faits et paraissent en- courageants ; le Cap a cependant une notable avanoe grace a l'organisation complete de son commerce et a son moindre eloignement de Londres. (A steivre.) LES DEGATS AUX ENVIRONS DE MALINES. M. De Meyer, conseiller d'hoTticulture de l'Etat, qui a fait un 6ejour de trois semaines en Belgique et a pu rentrer au prix de mille dif- ficultes, nous fait le tableau euivant des devasta- tions commises dans sa circonscription : — Une veritable pluie d'obus, qui s'est abattue sur Malines et environs, y a mis certains eta- blissements borticoles dans un etat des plus tristes. Une courte visite faite sur les lieux chez quelques maraichers nous a permis de juger de visu de l'importance des devastations. On com- prend aisement que les vibrations imprimees a 1'air par les explosions d'obus ont totalement detruit le verre, mais voici quelques details preci6 : Chez un maraicher du Neckerspoel, M. Van de Werf, une bombe aneantiesait d un seul coup deux serres et tout le chauffage. Chez M. Buelens (meme loealite) onze bombes sont tombees dans l'etabliasement, qui a 3 hec- tares de superficie. A certains endroits, les carres d'Asperges ont ete labourer jusqu'a trois metres de profondeur, et les souches reietees au loin. Les tuyaux de chauffage. deia places dans les lignes en vue du forcage, etaient creves et parfois tordus en forme de spirale ! Les trois quarts des carreaux de l'etablissement sont reduits en morceaux. Un des ouvriers eut l'idee de rassembler les eclats d'obus : en une heure de temps il parvint a reunir 80 kilos de debris ! Les memes degats ont ete occasionnes dans les cultures de nombre de producteure a Wavre Ste. Catherine, Elzestraat et Duffel. A Waelhem, 6ur un terrain de cinquante metres carres, j'ai personnellement pu compter quatorze fosses de plusieure metres de largeur, creusees par l'explosion d'obus. Les serres dans les environs sont completement depourvues de verre ; des chassis qui devaient servir au forcage dee primeurs, ii ne reste que les squelettes. Beaucoup de maraichers se trouvent dans line indecision complete au sujet des cultures a entre- prendre, et cela pour les raisons suivantes : (1) Le prix eleve du charbon : 50 a 60 fr. les 1,000 kilos ; (2) l'incertitude au 6ujet du debit des produits. La Chicoree Witloof, qui en Belgique fait l'objet d'un commerce enorme. ee vendait le 18 Janvier dans les rues de Bruxelles a raison de 20 centimes le kilo pour la toute premiere qualite. Beaucoup de cultivateurs n'ont pas entame le forcage de ce legume. Ceux qui en temps normal faisaient le forcage de l'Asperge choment aussi, de meme que les producteurs de toutee les autres primeurs. En ce qui concerne les cultures printanieres, le Chou-fleur, dont les marches sont generalement inondes aux mois de mai et de juin, sera reduit au tiers de la recolte. La fabrique de conserves " Le Soleil " a fait appel aux cultivateurs de Pois les engageant a faire d'importants semis de ce precieux legume, mais je crains fort que cet appel ne eoit pa6 ecoute. II est a remarquer que les Allemands ont completement enleve le stock de conserves de cette importante usine. E. Demeycr. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Le Raisin a Bruxelles.— II y a quelques semaines des envois assez importants de Raisins beiges etaient parvenus en Angleterre via la Hol- lande. Malgre la perfection de l'emballage, beaucoup de colis arrivaient en mauvaise condi- tion, ce qui devait etre attribue aux nombreux transbordements a operer par un personnel d'occasion. Les risques de ce commerce l'ont bientot fait arreter et il n'arrive plus maintenant de Raisin beige a Londres. De nouvelles recentes parvenues de Bruxelles il result* que le marche s'y est un peu ameliore, le fruit de tout premier choix atteignant 2 fr. 40 a 3 fr. le kilogramme, soit lid. a 14d. la livre. Ce prix, surtout si Ton tient compte de ce que la qualite moyenne n'atteint pas le cours de 2 fr. 40, n'est certes pas sufnsant pour consoler les viticulteurs beiges des pertes subies depuis le debut de la guerre, lorsqu'ils durent vendre des quantites enormes de Raisins a 30. 40 et SO centimes le kilo ! Truffes et Asperges Francaises en Autriche. — D'apres le journal autrichien Die Zeit les gourmets viennois continuent a exiger dee pTimeurs comme en temps de paix. Des efforts sont faits pour les produire en Autriche mais d'aucunes proviennent toujours de France. C'est ainsi qu'il arrive regulierement des envois de Truffes et de pointes d'Asperges francaises im- porteee via l'ltalie. La Fabrique de Conserves de Legumes a Wespelaer, pres de Louvain, avait, on se le rappelle, ete ineendiee par les Allemands lors du massacre fait dane cette region pour venger les pertee infligees a l'armee teutonne par une eortie des troupes beiges de la place d'Anvers. Nous apprenons maintenant. que les Allemands ont eteint eux-memes l'incendie, en vue de pouvoir s'emparer du stock de conserves emmagasinees dane la fabrique. Suivant des nouvelles assez recentes, le travail y aurait repris. Nous ignorons la nature de ce travail. La Maladie des Choux en Hollande.— La province de Hollande septentrionale produit des quantites considerables de Choux. Une maladie speciale connue sous le nom de " torsion dee Choux " y fait de grands degats. 'A la euite du defaut de rotation, le terrain serait litterale- ment infecte des germes du mal. Chose curieuse dans des centres de culture horticole, les associa- tions de producteurs ont decide d'introduire dans leur rotation des cultures purement agricoles telles que de Froment, d'Orge et d'Avoine. On espere que pendant la duree de la culture inter- mediaire, les parasites dieparaitront faute d'hote. Les Producteurs de Bulbes Hollandai& et la Guerre.— Un ancien fonctionnaire com- munal de Haarlem, centre de la production dee bulbes a fleurs de Hollande, ayant ecrit une lettre sur papier ofliciel. critiquant l'attitude des Allemand6 en Belgique, lettre qui a ete repro- duce par le Mollers Gartner Zeitung, l'ad- ministration communale de cette ville e'en est vivement emue. Au cours d'une seance tenue recemment, le bourgmestre declara que lui et ses adjoints avaient ete deconcertes en prenant con- . naissance de cette piece et qu'ils reprouvaient profondement l'attitude de l'auteur de la lettre. Restauration de l Agriculture en Bel- gique ET DANS LE NORD-EST DE LA FRANCE.— Sous ce nom un comite a ete forme a Londres, preside par le Marquis de Lincolnshire. II fait un appel aux agriculteurs de la Grande BTetagne qui pourraient fournir du betail, des graines agricoles et potageres ou des plantes en vue de la remise en exploitation des terres actuellement occupeee par l'ennemi. Le comite a reiju l'appro- bation de MM. Urbain David et Helleputte, ministres de l'Agriculture de France et de Bel- gique. L'affectation des materiaux reunis sera decidee conformement aux indications de ces hauts fonctionnaires. Le comite, dont le siego est etabli 39, Queen Anne's Chambers, West- minster, London, S.W., fait egalement un appel de fonds a ceux qui seTaient dans l'impos- sibilite de faire des dons en nature. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. M. De Meter, Staatstuinbouw-consulent te Mechelen, heeft eenige dagen in Belgie doorge- bracht en beschrijft de groote schade aldaar aangebracht. Onder meer zijn de tuinbouw- bedrijven der heeren Buelens en Van de Werf, van Neckerspoel, aan stukken geschoten. Het Witloof is te Brussel buitengen-oon goedkoop. De aanvoer van belgische druiven over Hol- land naar Londen is voorgoed gestaakt ten gevolge van den slechten toestand ivaarin de vruchten dikwijls aangebracht werden. De schoonste druiven ivorden nu te Brussel van 2 fr. 40 tot 3 f r. per kilo verkocht. Een komiteit is in Londen gesticht met het doel giften te vereenigen voor het terug in uitbating brengen der thans verlaten boerderijen in Belgie en Noord-Frankrijk. De markt van Covent Garden is vermaard voor de uitheemsche vruchten die men er aantreft. Canada en de Vereenigde Staten van Amerika zenden overgroote hoeveelheden appelen en peren, terwijl Australie in de laatste jaren ook een belangrijke plaats tusschen de afzenders heeft verworven. Fbbbuaby 6, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 71 HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions expressed by correspondents.) Apples: their Flowering and Fruiting. — Your correspondent X. (p. 60) will find material for making a comparison between dates of flowering and of maturity of fruit of Apples in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, Vol. XXXVI., p. 350, where I was able to show that the relative order of flowering is approxi- mately the same for varieties of Apples through- out the world — i.e., an early-flowering variety is early-flowering whether it grows in England or in Australia. I gave there a list of many Apples grown in the British Isles in their order of flowering. Of the distinctly early-flowering varieties, and taking " time of maturity " to mean the time at which they are at their best for use, Red Astrachan, Manks Codlin, Eariy Peach, White Transparent, Irish Peach, Duchess of Oldenburgh, Keswick Codlin, White Juneating and Stirling Castle are early in maturing their fruit; but we find also among contemporary flowerers, Braddick's Nonpareil, Golden Spire, Tower of Glammis, Gravenstein, Lady Derby, Margil, Gold Medal, Egremont Russet, Brown- lee's Russet and Belle de Boskoop. There are thus mid-season and even comparatively late Apples among the earliest to flower. Conversely, Mr. Gladstone, one of the earliest to mature, is among the latest to blossom, while we find other early-maturing varieties distributed through the flowering season. While it is true to say that many Apples which reach maturity early are among the first to flower, it is also true that many which flower early mature comparatively late, and some which flower late mature com- paratively early. Fred. J. Chittenden. A Selection of Apples. -A final word in reply to Mr. Molyneux, on p. 46. With the selection of Apples given on p. 353, Vol. LVI. (which Mr. Molyneux criticises) are the reasons for the wide range of varieties. These reasons are repeated at length on page 389. The question of the newer varieties which Mr. Molyneux has repeatedly raised does not enter into the subject at ail, for the reasons fully given on p. 20.- Mr. Molyneux must admit that a new variety must be tried in widely different soils and localities before it is proved of sufficient merit to displace some of the older varieties, and the fact of an indi- vidual grower being so positive as to its merits or demerits is not sufficient evidence to justify widespread planting. I write in general terms, entirely as a private gardener, therefore Mr. Molyneux, as a market grower, doubtless sees things from quite a different point of view. Despite all Mr. Molyneux can say against the practice of planting a large number of varieties of Apples, I am fully convinced that the majority of gardeners will continue to plant them, and eventually eliminate those which they find by actual experience are not suited to their particular district. Mr. Brotherston on p. 35, in his remarks on Cox's Orange. Pippin, Kibston Pippin and Dumelow's Seedling, fully bears out my contention that many varieties suc- ceeding in one locality are utter failures in others. Mr. Shakelton's experience is the same, and other private correspondents have written me on exactly the same lines, so I feel convinced that many private gaTdeners see my points ex- actly. A Market Grmoer says (on. p. 15): " I agree with Mr. Molyneux generally so far as market growing is concerned, and with Mr. Weston in relation to private orchards." With that verdict I can rest content. J. G. Weston, Ashford, Kent. Of the P»rts of a Fruit Tree. — May I tender thanks here to Mr. Bunyard for start- ing discussion on this subject? I take it that in science, arts and technology as knowledge pro- gresses special terminology becomes a necessity, and the existence of such a terminology is the expression of achieved advance. With regard to " Bourgeon anticipe," the fact of premature growth is hardly emphasised by the word *' twig," and it would be putting a limited mean- ing to an old established word ; " twig " is surely a good counterpart for " brindille " — a Bmall, thin, wood shoot ; " premature side shoot " would give the sense of " bourgeon anticipe." For " prolongement " we have the good words "leader" (either central or lateral) or " leading shoot," and thus " extension shoot " hardly seems needed. " Gross shoot " for " gour- mand " is quite a good suggestion. " Char- pente," being the supporting structure or frame- work (as distinguished from the supported fruiting branches or " coursonnes "), is not very clearly distinguished in the standard ; in my re- cent article I used " structural " branches to avoid) confusion with support or framework, which may be man's addition to guide the tree ; " main branch " is all very well, but " side branch" in itself does not suggest whether the said branch is " charpentiere " or " coursonne." " Spur " is so well established as a " fruit- spur " that it would be difficult to limit its meaning now to the " dard," and it purse or skin of lard) from a pig's ear, and the one-sided, non-punning, pointless English version. " Support " does not appeal to me, for it is otherwise used in the fruit garden, and by the time it has become a " bourse" it has ceased to be a support and become a swollen mother of dard, bouton and brindille ; if ques- tionable humour were permissible, a " sossidge " would come near the mark ; anyhow, quite a new term would seem needed. Mr. Bunyard objects to my qualified statement that the bourse only occurs on Pear trees ; the statement should have been, perhaps, as a quotation in inverted commas, but my qualification seemed to make this un- necessary. Anyhow, I am much indebted to him for kindly sending the examples, which Fig. 21 CHRYSANTHEMUM W. RIOBY (See p. 64.) COLOUR CANARY-YELLOW. would then tend to introduce confusion. As the " dard " may never become a fruit-spur, some such hybrid as quasi-spur would be preferable if spur is applied to it at all ; in itself "dard" is quite an easy word for the British gardener to pronounce. Certainly the long Sard is not far removed from the " brin- dille couronnee," but rather a long, long way from the " brindille," which may never attain to a crown; "brindille," too, is so well given by " twig." " Lambourde " is quite clear as the simple single fruit-spur and its branched or com- plex derivative (lambourde multiple). The " Bourse," though rather fleshy, is a hard nut to crack; the translation "purse" recalls the French punning proverb relating the impossi- bility of getting a "bourse de soie " (= silk were mostly better than any I had previously found on the Apple, though all of them very poor attempts compared to the great things that the Pear tree produces. I hope that in due course their structure may be reported upon by a well-known botanical expert, to whom I have submitted them, together with Pear " bourses." What about their treatment in pruning? I have followed Vercier by " refreshing their ends" and thus removing the open, ragged sore, which looks like a possible point of entry for the undesired germ. Whatever terms may be eventually authenticated, it is to be hoped that none will be equivocal or liable to confusion with existing terms or meanings, the widening or narrowing of which is hardly to be desired. H. K. Durham. 72 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 6, WIE- THE "Journal" of the Royal Horti- cultural Society.— As one of the entirely satisfied recipients of that journal, I cannot acquiesce in Mr. Engleheart's complaints, for I find the abstracts very useful, and their wide range makes them still more so. In the multi- plicity of horticultural publications at the present day, it is impossible to peruse all of them, and the saving of time in having abstracts from, and reference to, papers published in foreign journals must, I feel sure, be appreciated by many busy men who are interested in horticulture. I cannot but think that Mr. Engleheart has unwarrant- ably assumed that most of its readers agree with written in haste. Since the introduction into this country from Canada and the ^Northern States of America in 1765 it has become the com- monest N. American Vaccinium in British gar- dens, and produces flowers and fruits well under our climatic conditions. Long ago Neill, in his Horticultural Tour, p. 322, stated that the plant was grown for its fruit in a peat border, no fur- ther away than Enghien, near .Brussels. If Mr. Engleheart had been with me at Hull last year, when I went round the docks there, and saw hun- dieds of baskets of Whortleberries, imported from the Continent, for sale to the Lancashire opera- tives (notwithstanding that the Whortleberry is Fig. 22. — CHRYSANTHEMUM " THOMAS BEESON " (See p. 65.) COLOUR, GOLDEN-BRONZE. him in objecting to such abstracts. It is not very long ago that one of our best mycologists ridiculed the idea of the American Gooseberry blight occurring^ as a pest in this country, and had it not been for the persistence with which Mr. E. S. Salmon kept the subject before the public the pest would have been much more widely distri- buted in this country than it is at present. A few years ago it might have seemed impossible that the San Jose scale would be found in this country, the climate being so different from that of California, but facts are incontrovertible. Mr. Engleheart's remarks concerning the Blueberry culture, by which, I presume, he means Vac- cinium corymbosum, must surely have teen a common plant on peaty, silicious soil in this country), I think he would not have derided the possibility of the cultivation of V. corymbosum in this country. To say, as Mr. Engleheart does, that it requires "a swamp with the American climate on "top of it" is, to say the least, a state- ment so loose and inaccurate that I, for one, should be sorry to see such statements in the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society. The note on the abstract objected to says dis- tinctly that it likes an acid soil, preferably a mixture of peat and sand, with good drainage and moderate soil moisture. The dictionary defi- nition of a swamp is " spongy land, or low ground filled with water," which exactly contravenes the good drainage mentioned in the abstract. The advantage that the V. corymbosum possesses over V. Myrtillus, our native Blueberry, is that being a taller plant, 5-10 feet, the berries are more easily collected. If Mr. Engleheart will give us useful hints or new information in the Journal of the society on the cultivation, hybridi- sation, and diseases of the Narcissus, I am sure its readers will read with con- fidence and with due deference all that he has to say on the subject, but regarding other plants with which he appears to be less well acquainted, and with Tespect to the conduct of a journal which, in my opinion (after 40 years' experience of journals) is one of the best and most useful journals of its kind, I feel less confident that his opinion is worthy of acceptance. I venture to believe that as the Journal of the Royal Horticul- tural Society probably has a place in most large Continental and American libraries, and as there are British Horticulturists in all our various colonies (which comprise all climates, and all soils), as well as in probably every foreign coun- try, it would be a mistake not to make the ab- stracts meet the wants of all the possible Teaders of the Journal. I would even go further and sug- gest that there should be a little space devoted to answer inquiries from our Colonies. I feel sure that if I were in Uganda, for instance, I should be glad of a journal which would give leliable advice in a Correspondence Column con- cerning any plant that I might be endeavouring to cultivate there, or suggestions how to meet the attacks of insect and fungous pests. With the numerous experts available for this purpose, be- longing to the society, snch information should not be difficult to obtain. The editor of that journal would, I venture to think, do well not to follow the example given in the fable of the man and the donkev. It is impossible to please every- body. E. U.' Holmes. SOCIETIES ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. February 2. — The usual fortnightly meeting was held on Tuesday last in the Vincent Square Hall, Westminster. The number of exhibits was much larger than on the last two occasions, but the most striking difference was the greatly in- creased attendance. A few novelties were sub- mitted to the Floral Committee, but none was recommended for an award. It is very unusual for two meetings of this committee to follow in sequence without a new plant receiving either an Award of Merit or a First-class Certificate. The most imposing floral group was a collection of forced shrubs. There were many good exhibits of Orchids, and the Orchid Committee recommended one Award of Merit and awarded six medals to collections.' ' The Fruit and Vegetable Committee awarded three medals, two for exhibits of Apples and Pears, and one for a collection of Potatos. At the 3 o'clock meeting in the lecture room Professor H. Maxwell-Lefroy delivered a lecture on "Keeping Orchards Clean'." Orchid Committee. Present: J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., in the chair, and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (lion secretary), Sir Harrv J. Veitch, De B. Craw-shay, W. Bol- tmi S. W. Flory, W. H. White, A. Dye, W. P. Bound. J. E. Shill, W. H. Hatcher, J. Cypher, W. Cobb, T. Armstrong, F. J. Hanbury, Stuart Low, Pantia Ralli, Gurney Wilson, J. Charles- worth, and R. A. Rolfe. A dozen or so novelties were entered to go before the Committee, but only one secured an award. AWARD OF MERIT. Cattleya Trianae alba Queen Elizabeth, from J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Brackenhurst, Tun- bridge Wells (gr. Mr. J. Davis). A grand flower, and one of the few C. Trianae which can lay claim to being pure white. The petals and lip are very broad, and finely shaped, with uni- formly crimped margins. General Exhibits. J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., showed a finely flowered plant of Odontioda Vivid (C. Noez- liana x 0. illustrissimum), of glowing blood-red colour, a flower of Oda. Jean Fowler's variety, with red markings on yellow ground, and the February 6, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 73 richly coloured Sopliro-Laelio-Cattleya Sybil Fow- Baron Bruno Schroder, The Dell, Englefield Green (gr. Mr. J. E. Shill), showed the fine white Cattleya Trianae The Baroness, and a spike of Cymbidium Pauwelsii The Dell variety, with twenty-two flowers, taken from a plant with three spikes. • Pantia Ralli, Esq., Ashtead Park, hurrey, . showed Odontoglossura Mandens Queen of Spain, a well-formed yellow flower blotched with choco- late colour. Richard Ashworth, Esq., Ashlands, New- church (gr. Mr. Gilden). sent a good specimen of Odontoglossum Cervantesii decorum, with six flowers on a spike. Messrs. Charlesworth and Co., Hay ward s Heath, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a group of finely flowered specimens, the best novelties in which were Cattleya Enid. var. Firmin Lambeau (Mossiae Reineckiana X Warscewiczii Frau Melanie Beyrodt), a large, pure-white flower, with purple veining on the lip in front of the yellow disc ; the variety had previously received a First-class Certificate ; and Cattleya Trianae Admiral Beatty, a large flower of fine shaipe, of Tose-pink with claret-red front to the lip. The central plant of Cymbi- dium insigne bore eight spikes with eighty-four blooms, and a plant of the white Odontoglossum ardentissimum xanthotes bore a six-branched spike. Messrs. Armstrong and Brown, Tunbridge Wells, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an excellent and well-arranged group, the body of which was of their variety of Cattleya Maggie Raphael alba. A selection of blotched Odonto- glossums flowering for the first time, a good lot of Odontiodas and Odontoglossums, the slen- der sprays of 0. Thompsonianum and O. Royal Purple over the white Cattleyas being very effec- tive. Some pretty Laelio-Cattleyas, Brasso- Cattleya Cliftonii alba, B. C. Sanderi, and a good selection of Cypripediums were also shown. Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a very interesting group in which several rich-coloured forms of Cattleya Trianae appeared. Several good Cymbidiums, including C. Gottianum ; a, selection of hybrid Cypripediums of good quality ; some pretty Laelio-Cattleyas, among which the very showy L.-C. F. J. Birkbeck (L.-C. Hy. Greenwood x C. Mendelii) was conspicuous, the large flowers, with their petals decorated with purple bands, as in C. Trianae Backhousi- ana, were very distinct. Messrs. J. Cypher and Sons, Cheltenham, secured a Silver Banksian Medal for a group of Cypripediums, superbly grown and well flowered. Those noted as specially good were C. Mrs. F. Godman, like a large form of Euryades, several varieties of which were arranged with it; a form of C. Actaeus had the varieties Sybil and splendens for the best. In the back were a selection of Calanthes, with Angraecum super- bum. Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbridge, were voted a Silver Banksian Medal for a group in which the white form of Laelia anceps and the brightly coloured L. a. Schroderae were well arranged with Cymbidiums, Oncidioda Cook- soniae, a good selection of Odontoglossums and Odontiodas, and some good Cypripediums. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Jarvisbrook, Sussex, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a group in which were several of the showy yellow Laelio-Cattleya Doris (L. harpophylla X C. Trianae), one with a dozen flowers on the spike. Good Cattleya Trianae, C. Octave Doin, C. Maggie Raphael alba, Brasso-Cattleya San- deri and B.-C. Digbyano-Mendelii, and showy species were also included. Messrs. Hassall and Co., Southgate, 6ent Brasso-Cattleya Menda (C. labiata virginea x B.-C. Queen Alexandra), always a pretty flower of good shape ; a very beautiful Odontioda, with cinnabar^red blotches on the flowers, which have a broad rose margin. Messrs. Flory and Black, Slough, showed a very fine form of Laelio-Cattleya luminosa (C. aurea x L. tenebrosa), with bronzy yellow sepals and petals, and deep violet-purple lip ; Odontioda Simone (Oda. Bradshawiana x Odm. Vuyl- stekei), a distinct flower of good size and shape, pale yellow, heavily marked with chocolate-red, and also a singular species of Eria not recognised. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present: Jos. Cheal, Esq. (in the chair), Messrs. W. Bates, E. Beckett, A. Grubb, A. R. Allan, Geo. Keif, H. J. Wright, J. Davis, J. G. Weston, A. Bullock, G. Reynolds, P. D. Tuckett, E. A. Bunyard, W. H. Divers, Owen Thomas, and W. Poupart. Mr. W. Taylor, Hampton, showed a collec- tion of Apples and Pears, for which a Silver Knightian Medal was awarded. The Apples were splendid, not exceptionally large, but with that beautiful refined exterior which betokens high quality. The following varieties are a selec- tion : — Cox's Orange Pippin, Cox's Pomona, Claygate Pearmain, Mannington Pearmain, Gas- coyne's Scarlet Seedling, Sturmer Pippin, Beauty of Kent, The Melon, Northern Greening and Pine Golden Pippin. Messrs. H. Cannell and Sons, Eynsford, showed 60 varieties of Apples and a few dishes of Pears. The fruits were all choice specimens, there being no signs of shrivelling and the colours were splendid. The varieties Smart's Prince Arthur, King Edward VII., Winter Peach, Hoary Morning, Belle de Boskoop, Mere de Menage, Blue Pearmain, King of Tompkins County, Betty Geeson, Gloria Mundi, Ailing- ton Pippin, Dumelow's Seedling, Newton Won- der, Tower of Glammis (a rich golden colour), and Winter Greening were exceptionally good. (Silver-gilt Knightian Medal.) Mrs. Dennison, Little Dennison (gr. Mr. A. G. Gentle), exhibited 36 varieties of Potatos for which a Silver Knightian Medal was awarded. The varieties Arran Chief, Scottish Triumph, Windsor Castle, Royalty, Prolific, Great Scot, Goldfinder and Mary Queen were the pick of the ordinary sorts, whilst Carter's Emperor, Reid's Seedling, Exhibition Red, Mr. Bresse, Purple Eyes, and Herd Laddie are a selection of the coloured specimens. Messrs. G. Bunyard and Co., Ltd.^ Maid- stone, showed fruits of Newton Pippin Apple for the committee to test the flavour. They were not so luscious as the imported fruits, neither was the shape so regular. Earl Spencer, Althorpi Park, Northampton (gr. C F. Crump), showed Apples Alfriston, Belle de Pontoise and Spencer's Favourite, a local variety. Sir Albert Rollit, St. Anne's Hill, Chertsey, exhibited a tree of Citrus decumana (Grape Fruit) bearing four ripe fruits. Varieties of culinary Apples were shown by Messrs. R. Veitch and Son, Exeter ; Mr. W. Crump, Madresfield Court Gardens, Malvern ; and Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons, Crawley, for the purpose of determining which are the best cooking Apples for February. Cooked fruits will be submitted at the next meeting, when the de- cision of the committee will be made. (To be concluded.) NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM. Annual Meeting. February 1. — The annual meeting of the National Chrysanthemum Society was held on Monday last at Carr's Restaurant, Strand. The chairman, Mr. Thomas Bevan, presided, and thirty-five members were present. Before the formal business commenced the secretary, Mr. R. Witty, read a telegram from the president, Sir Albert Rollit, regretting his inability to be present, owing to indisposition, and congratulating the society on the satisfac- tory nature of the committee's report for the past year, considering the exceptional circum- stances. The secretary also read a communica- tion from Mr. Norman Davis, offering the sum of £5 to the prize fund. The chairman presented the annual report and balance-sheet, from which we publish the follow- ing extracte : — Extracts from tho Report. Your committee regret that in consequence of the war the three shows arranged for 1914 had to be abandoned. Tho Naval Authorities took over the Crystal Palace for purposes connected with the De- fence of the Realm, and. although the Ory-stal Palace remained open to the public it was impossible to hold a show which involved a. lot of impedimenta in the Palace itself. Under a clause contained' in the con- tract the arrangements became void and your com- mittee received advice towards the end of September that the stiows were cancelled. Owing to the difficulties of finance and to the fact that, every hall in London was liable to be taken for military purposes at very short notice, your committee were unable to arrange for shows to take the place of those which had been abandoned. On the dates when the two principal shows should have been held at the Crystal Palace arrange- ments were made for enlarged Floral Committee meet- ings at Essex Hall. Eight meetings of the Floral Committee were held and 103 new varieties were staged, as compared with 177 during the previous year. Of the 103 new varieties nineteen were awarded First-class Certificates, eleven were Commended, one was Commended as a Market variety, and two received the Award for Colour. The usual table is set forth below showing to which sections First-class Certificates have been awarded dur- ing the past five years. (After 1911 "Decorative" as such disappeared from our classification, the blooms which were originally so described being included under their proper sections.) The annual conference was held on December 9 at Essex Hall, the subject under consideration being " Single Chrysanthemums." The following papers were read, namely (1) " The Culture of Singles," by Mr. M. E. Mills; (2) "The Best Singles of To-day— and some of the Worst," by Mr. Thomas Stevenson; (3) " Suggestions to Future Raisers of Singles," by Mr. P. A. Cragg. Your committee have pleasure in pointing out that once again they are able to show " Ordinary Liabilities nil," as at the end of the year. The breaking of the Crystal Palace contract and the jeopardising of other sources of income in consequence of the war made it necessary for the committee to review the whole financial position of the society at their first meeting in September. All the ordinary liabilities were met out of the current revenue of the year with- out drawing on the society's reserve fund. Members were given the option of having one subscription treated as covering the two years 1914 and 1915. The total amount of subscriptions and affiliation fees re- ceived under this arrangement for the two years was £17 8s.. and one-half of this sum — namely, £8 14s. — is shown in the accounts as 'having been paid in advance for 1915. On the other hand, a considerable number of members and affiliated societies sent no subscrip- tions during the past year, and although a certain per- centage of these may reasonably be expected to come in during the current year, the committee have thought it wise not to include them at all in the statement of assets and liabilities. Meetings of the Executive Committee for 1915 have bee l fixed as follows : — September 20, October 18, Novem- ber 15 and December 13. Meetings of the Floral Com- mittee for 1915 will be held as under ; — Monday, Sep- tember 20, 1915 ; Monday, October 4, 1915 ; Monday, October 25, 1915; Wednesday, November 3, 1915; Thurs- day, November 11, 1915 ; Monday, November 22, 1915 ; Wednesday, December 8, 1915. Arrangements have been made to hold a show at the Horticultural Hall, Vincent Square, Westminster, S.W.. on November 11 and 12, 1915. Full particulars will be issued to members as soon as possible. A special committee is considering the question of the 1915 conference and the extension of the society's educational work generally, and details will be issued to the members at an early date. Proceedings. The chairman moved the adoption of the re- port and balance-sheet, which he considered very satisfactory under the circumstances, although the work of the past year had been very much reduced. The withholding of the shows had resulted in a saving of the funds, and they were now in a position to do better in the coming season than last year. Although it was to be regretted, it was not surprising to find that many were behind in their subscriptions, and he appealed to the members to give them all the financial support they could. The motion was seconded by Mr. E. Hawes, who stated that it would not be possible to hold the annual show at the Crystal Palace, but arrangements had been made for an exhibition at the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall in November. Many had ex- pressed a wish in the past for the shows to be held in the Metropolis, and now that it would be fulfilled he hoped that they would come forward and help to make the venture a success. The report and balance-sheet were adopted by the unanimous vote of the meeting without further comment. In proposing a vote of thanks to the auditors Mr. D. B. Crane stated that he was gratified to know that there was a surplus of £12 2s. 8d. on the year's working, whilst the assets exceeded the liabilities by the sum £102 6s. lid. The meeting then proceeded to the election of officers, and the following were all re-elected : — Sir Albert Rollit. president; Mr. John Green, treasurer ; Mr. Thomas Bevan, chairman ; Mr. E. F. Hawes, vice-chairman; Mr. C. Harman Payne, foreign corresponding secretary ; Messrs. Stevens and \V. Walker, auditors; Mr. Richard A. YYitlv. genera] secretary. Mr. Witty pointed out that the arrangements for the coming year were somewhat in the nature of an experiment, for they were holding the annua] show at the Royal Horticultural Society's Hall, which was not far from the site of the old Westminster Aquarium, the scene of some of their most successful exhibitions. The 74 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 6, 1915. schedule would be not quite on the same lines as usual, for the accommodation would not be so ample, neither were the funds available for prizes so liberal as in the past, but he looked forward to there being a large balance available for a more extensive show in 1916. The com- mittee intended to make the educational meet- ings more important, for the conferences were quite as valuable to some of the members as the shows. Mr. Harman Payne had promised to read a paper on the literary aspects of the Chrysanthemum in March.. The next business was the election of the com- mittee. The secretary announced that Mr. J. W. Moorman had tendered his resignation as a mem- ber of the committee, after twenty-five years' service, owing to advancing years. Several members expressed their appreciation of the good work done for the society by Mr. J. W. Moorman, and, on the proposition of the chair man, the secretary was asked to send a letter to him expressing regret at his resignation, and it was resolved that the letter, together with an appreciation of the gojjd work done by Mr. Moor- man in the interests of the Chrysanthemum, should be entered on the minutes. Retiring members of the committee were re-elected, together with Messrs. H. J. Wright and A. M. Faulkner. Mr. Curtis proposed that the foreign corre- sponding secretary. Mr. C. Harman Payne, be asked to send a letter to Chrysanthemum growers in France, expressing appreciation for their work in the past, and the wish that there may be peace again soon to enable all to resume their interest in the flower. Haughton, in 1879. For the past nine years deceased held the office of secretary to the Vale of Alford Horticultural Association. He is sur- vived by a widow and grown-up family. His son, Robert, has of late been fulfilling his father's duties at Haughton. ENQUIRY. Iris rosenbachiana. — Will anyone who grows this Iris and who is willing to exchange either pollen now or bulbs later be so good as to com- municate with me? I have a frame full of seedling bulbs of this species of which a dozen or more are already in flower. I am, however, disappointed to find that the colour scheme is in every case the same, namely dark red, white and gold. I am anxious to obtain different colours, which can probably be done by cross fertilisa- tion. IF. 7?. Dykes, Charterhouse, Godalnung. ®bituar\>. James Clay Harvev.-Wc regret to record the death of Mr, J. C. Harvey, of Orizaba and Buena Ventura, Cascasal, S. Mexico, which took place on December 11 last at the age of sixty-four years. Mr. Harvey, who was an occasional cor- respondent of the Gardeners' Chronicle, was specially interested in Orchids, which he grew with remarkable success among the many species of Palms, etc., which he cultivated in the open air. He grew not only Mexican Orchids but others from various regions, making a special study of their habits and shifting such plants as did not thrive to his satisfaction from one of his gardens to the other. He was, by travel and study, well informed of the plants of the sub- alpine regions of Mexico. An article on his successes with Orchids from widely separated regions in India and the Philippines appear in the last issue of the Orchid Review. George Humphrey.— It is with regret we record the death of this well-known gardener, which took place at Ramsgate on the 25th ult. , aged 78 years. Mr. Humphrey was foT a period of 26 years gardener at Nash Court, Faversham, Kent. He was instrumental in introducing to commerce Lapageria rosea Nash Court variety, while the Fernery which he constructed and arranged at that place (see Gardeners' Chronicle, Supp. Illus., Jan. 14, 1888) was one of the finest in the country. He resigned his position at Nash Court 6ome twelve years ago, and had since lived in retirement. Alexander Ogston.— The death took place recently at The Gardens, Haughton. Alford, Aberdeenshire, of Mr. Alexander Ogston, for over 36 years gardener at Haughton. He was a native of Rattray, and was engaged as gardener by the late Mr. Robert 0. Farquharson, of ANSWERS TO CORRESPONDENTS. "There are few gardeners, and still (ewer amateurs, who do not on occasion require immediate information upon various points of practice. But either from an unwillingness "o inquire, or from not knowing of whom to make the inquiry, they too often fail to obtain the information they are in want of. And let no one be alarmed lest his questions should appear trifling, or those of a person ignorant of that which he ought to know. He is the wisest man who is conscious of his ignorance ; for how little do the wisest really know ! — except that they know little. If one man is unacquainted with a fact, however common, it is probable that hundreds of others in the same position as himself are equally in want of similar information. To ask a question, then, is to consult the good of others as well as of one s self. — Gardeners' Chronicle, No. 1, Vol. I. , January S, 18UU Adiantum Fern : .4. H. No disease is present in your plant. The failure is due to wrong cultural treatment, but the defect could only be diagnosed by an inspection of the plants and the conditions in which they are grown. Begonia Gloire de Sceaux : /. /. Eelworms are present at the root of the plant, for which pest there is no cure. The soil in which the diseased plants have been grown should be sterilised by burning. Cineraria Unhealthy : B. P. There is no disease present in the Cineraria leaves, and the curling of the leaves is due to some error of treatment which can only be determined by those on the spot. Cleanings from a Boiler Furnace : /. C. The material is not likely to bo of much value as a fertiliser, but the sample you send is in a fine state of division and, being gritty, would be useful for incorporating with heavy ground to lighten it. For dressing your lawn it would be better to use some of the pure soot from the flues as this material contains a little nitrogen, which would benefit the turf. Fruits Suitable for Planting on a Fence with a North-West Aspect : C. E. W. The fol- lowing varieties of fruit trees will succeed either on a north or north-west aspect : Apples, — (dessert) Langley Pippin, Mr. Gladstone, Lady Sudeley ; (culinary) Bismarck, Potts's Seedling, Lane's Prince Albert. The trees should be trained as horizontal or triple cordons, and grafted on the Paradise stock. Plant speci- mens from 4 to 5 feet in height. Pears — Wil- liams' Bon Chretien, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Souvenir du Congres, Beurre d'Amanlis, Beurre Superfin, Fondante d'Automne. Hori- zontal or triple cordons worked on the Quince stock are necessary for the Pears. Pur- chase trees from 4 to 5 feet in height. Plums— Czar, Kirke's, Magnum Bonum, Jefferson's, Mallard and Victoria. Plant triple cordons, 4 to 5 feet in height. Triple cordon trees will each occupy a space about 3 feet wide. If you decide to plant hori- zontal trained trees, allow 5 to 10 feet from the centre of the tree on either side, accord- ing to its age and the subsequent system _ of pruning to be adopted. The work of planting may be undertaken now. Laurels Unhealthy : G. IF. M. The shoots have been killed by the fungus Nectna cin- nabarina. Cut out all the dead wood, and especially any small shoots. Spray the shrubs, from April onwards, with a solution of liver of sulphur. Names of Fruit : John Butcher. Bramley's Seedling.— H. G. P. (a) Hanwell Souring; (b) Hoary Morning ; (c) Grange's Pearmain. — Miss P. Wing. Wadhurst Pippin. Names of Plants : T. L. M. Ornithogalum chloroleucum. The flowers of all the species of Ornithogalum last a long time, either as cut blooms or on the plant. The bulb should be kept rather dry for three or four weeks, and then re-potted into good loam with a sprinkling of sand and grown in the greenhouse for (next season's flowering. The African species of Ornithogalum are obtain- able from nurserymen, and no doubt they could supply 0. chloroleucum. — /. M. T. 1, Cypripedium venustum pardinum, the best form of a well-known garden species ; 2, Cypri- pedium Harrisianum (villosum X barbatum). — G. F., Cairo, Egypt. 1, Montanoa grandi- flora; 2, M. hibiscifolia; 3, Nephrodium molle ; 4, Aster 6p. not identified, probably a garden hybrid ; 5, Bauhinia purpurea ; 6, Pteris (?) indeterminable without fruit; 7, Tithonia diversifolia ; 8, Polypodium dilata- tum. Peach Trees Diseased : F. If. C. The shoots have ripened imperfectly, and this has caused them to appear diseased. Primula malacoides plena : H. B. K. This plant received an Award of Merit at the Royal Horticultural Society's meeting on December 2, 1913, when it was 6hown by Messrs. Bees, Ltd., Liverpool. Raising Delphiniums from Seed : Reader. Whether Delphiniums raised from seed sown now will flower this year depends upon the treatment they receive, but in any case a re- presentative flowering will not be reached be- fore the second or third year. You should, however, be able to separate the good from the bad in the first flowering, giving those you retain a further trial next year. Seeds sown thinly in light, rich soil in a greenhouse temperature not exceeding 50° should vege- tate in a month, and with the appearing of the first rough leaves may be transplanted into boxes or pans or potted singly. Grown on quickly in a somewhat lower temperature the plants should be ready for their positions in the open by the end of April. By these means an earlier flowering will be facilitated. If sown in boxes and given cold-frame treat- ment, the seeds would not vegetate for two months or more ; the promise of their flowering in the season of sowing would, therefore, be remote. The Delphinium thrives in rich, deeply-cultivated soils, and requires generous treatment. For preference a light, friable loam ; close, tenacious clay soils they dislike. Take care that the plants do not become weakly or drawn while under glass, as this will militate against success. Side Border : Enquirer. You are hardly ex- plicit as to the width of your borders or the accommodation you have for raising plants, but you might plant a row of Cannas, Fuchsias, Ricinus, Abutilon Thomsonii, Zea japonica, Lobelia cardinalis, either separately or mixed, dotting the plants in a semi-circle or scallop design. In the centre of each scallop plant Grevillea robusta. Centaurea ragusina, Cyperus natalensis, Leucophylon Brownii, Cofeus Verschaffeltii or Ivy Leaf Pelargonium, the groundwork of each section being planted alternately with blue Agera- tum, Begonia semperflorens (pink or red). Heliotrope and Iresine Lindenii, edging the scallops with Pyrethrnm aureum. Fill the edging next to the grass and intervening spaces with dark blue Lobelia and Alyssum minimum alternately. Tomato Plant Diseased : /. T. Your plants are attacked by the fungus Botrytis. If the disease is not too far advanced water the soil with a weak solution of nitrate of potash every fourth day. If, however, the stem is black at the base the plants should be destroyed by burning. Violets Diseased : G. F. The plants are in- fested with Ascochyta violae, which is a diffi- cult disease to eradicate, as numerous minute spores fall from the leaves to the ground and infest the soil. If the attack is a bad one, burn the plants, sterilise the soil, disinfect the frame, and plant clean stock in fresh soil. When the plants are well established, spray the plants and soil at intervals of a fortnight with potassium sulphide at the strength of " loz. of potassium sulphide to 3 gallons of water. Communications Beceived.-A. B. J.— Progres- sive-H. L.-H. G P.-G. B.-P. P.-C. K.-R. L;-j J J.-T. D.-C. M.-J. B.-A. P. S.-T. & Sons- M W. A.— W. M. M.— W. H. C— 0. J. Q — H. J — m' V, G A.— J. C— A. T. H.— R. P.— Q. F— Jumbo— W. T— A. M. L.— Peat-A. G.— F. V.—W. B. Februakt 13, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 75 THE (Barurnrrs' Cljrmtirk No. 1,468.— SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1015. CONTENTS. Agriculture, problems in Agriculture seventy years ago Books, notices of— David Douglas's Jour- nal Conifers, notes on— Cupressus semper- virens Corsican and Austrian Pines Cultural notes- Propagating Carna- tions from leaves . . Sowing Sweet Peas . . Dahlias, Collerette Forcing Christmas Roses Forestry Fruit register Gloxinia, the Hardy plants — Erica cornea praecox rubra Micromeria croatica . . Iris tingitana Keeping orchards clean Larch disease Market fruit garden, the Obituary — Allen, R. W Brazier, F. Grade, T Obituary (cant.)— McTaggart, C Sweeny, M. Orchid notes and glean- ings Orphan Fund, Royal Gardeners' Paeony La Lorraine Potato trials in Surrey . . "Pour nos amis framjais et beiges" Rainfall and cannonading Rhubarb in the tropics. . Snap-Beech disease Societies — Brighton Hort. Debating Manchester and North of England Orchid . . Noi folk Hort Royal Horticultural Stirling Chrysanthe- mum Soil moisture Trees and shrubs Vegetables — Brussels Sprouts Cauliflowers in pots . . War items Week's work, the 82 Wheat, home grown Winter grime ILLUSTRATIONS. Cupressus sempervirens.. Dendrobium Triumph Douglas, David, portrait of Iris tingitana .. DAVID DOUGLAS, PIONEER BOTANICAL COLLECTOR IN NORTH AMERICA.* ALREADY at the beginning of the nineteenth century considerable collections of South African and Australian plants were cultivated in the gardens of this country. These were largely introduced by collectors for the Royal Gardens, Kew, under the auspices of Sir Joseph Banks, and may be classed as greenhouse plants. Already at that period, too, a number of hardy eastern North American trees, shrubs and herbs were growing here in a few large gardens; but it was David Douglas's privi- lege, in the service of the Horticultural Society of London, to tap the riches of the flora of Western North America. David Douglas was born at Scone, Perth- shire, in 1798, and served a seven years' apprenticeship in the gardens of the Earl of Mansfield, of the same place. Subse- quently he obtained an appointment in the Glasgow Botanic Garden, then under the direction of Doctor (afterwards Sir) Wil- liam J. Hooker, who encouraged Douglas's botanical enthusiasm, and finally recom- mended him to the Horticultural Society as a suitable person for a mission to North America to collect seeds and plants. Doug- las first went to the United States in 1823, among other things to study the Oaks. This he accomplished satisfactorily, and re- turned home the same year. In 1824 he proceeded to Western North America, by way of Cape Horn, touching at Rio, Juan Fernandez and the Galapagos on the way to British Columbia. Here he spent two years, and reached home again in the • Journal kepi b,i David Dowlas (,», 32 (154*). ■1 Figured in Elwes ami Henry op. cit., V., t. 293. February 13, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 79 HARDY PLANTS. ERICA CAKNEA PRAECOX RUBRA. This variety of Erica was the first of the hardy winter-flowering Heaths to bloom fully here this season. E. hybrida, or E. mediterranea hybrida as it is called indifferently, has bloomed late, and although in bud was not fully open at the end of December, as it is usually. E. carnea praecox Tubra was in its full beauty at that time. It is one of twelve varieties sent into commerce by Messrs. James Backhouse and Son in the autumn of 1912, and has been always the earliest here with the exception of E. hybrida at its normal season. The latter is, however, very irregular with me, for though it often flowers fully in November, I have occasionally had it in bloom much later. The flowers of E. carnea praecox rubra are rose-carmine tipped with madder bTOwn. MICROMERIA CROATICA. The Micromerias are pretty little shrubby plants, which are excellent for the rockery, the small, Thyme-scented foliage giving them a pleasant aspect in the summer and autumn. M. piperella is perhaps the best known species, but M. croatica is a more refined plant. It is a charming shrub, not more than one foot high. The flowers are produced in autumn, which makes the species all the more valuable, as flowers are scarce in the rock garden at that time. M. croatica has slender, wiry branches and small, fragrant leaves. The flowers are coloured lavender or lilac and white, and1 though not showy, give the plant a remarkably pretty appearance. I have grown the plant on a dry. exposed rockery in poor soil for close on ten years, and before that in sandy soil in a rock border. The species appears to be quite hardy, and may be increased by means of cuttings. S. Arnott, Stinnymead, Dvmfries. FRUIT REGISTER. RUSSIAN APPLES. The leader (p. 42} on Russian Apples is in- teresting. I have grown several varieties that claim to be of Russian origin, but I cannot say they are a success. Duchess of Oldenburgh. has two points of excellence, possibly three. It crops very freely, has an attractive appearance, and it is most amenable grown as an espalier ; but when we come to its quality either for dessert or cook- ing we are forced to the conclusion there are many superior at the same season. Certainly its peculiar colour and general appearance when ripening have much to recommend it when viewed by those who place attractiveness in the fore- front. As a stock for other sorts it is admirable when double-grafted. Perhaps its hardiness has much to do with that ; in my experience it is immune from canker. White Transparent fruits 'fairly well heTe and is exceptionally early, but I do not consider its quality would warrant anyone planting it freely. In growth it is none too robust. In appearance it is attractive, the pale-yellow fruit contrasting well with the deep-green foliage. Cardinal or Peter the Great I had to discard some years ago, the tree cankered so badly, and was not nearly fruitful enough to warrant its re- tention. In appearance it was attractive ; the flush of carmine on the light ground was dis- tinctly noticeable. As a late August or early September Apple it is not wanted in England, especially in the unsatisfactory cankered condi- tions to which it is. so liable in a heavy soil. EmpeTOr Alexander may succeed in a light, warm soil, but in a cold, heavy subsoil it is liable to canker. The flesh, too, is especially soft ; in appearance it has much to recommend it hy the extra deep, rich crimson of its 6kin. Wealthy has but two points to recommend it — colour and freedom of cropping. Some persons class it as a dessert fruit, but in flavour it lacks all points of quality that go to make a dessert Apple ; even for cooking it is none too grand. E. M. NEW OR NOTEWORTHY FRUITS. Bulletin No. 385 of the New York Agricul- tural Experiment Station contains lists and descriptions, drawn up by Mr. U. P. Hedrick, of new and noteworthy fruits recently tried in New York State. Of Apples Mr. Hedrick mentions King David of uncertain origin ; of Peaches, Edgemont, an improvement on Late Crawford, is a week earlier than Alberta, and a very promising introduction. Of Cherries are mentioned Abbesse d'Oignies, with the flavour of a Duke's, and a firmer, tenderer flesh than the Montmorency. French, a Damson Plum, which is said to be better than Shropshire, is a large and handsome fruited variety. Of Grapes Mr. Hedrick enumerates Hicks, which is more productive than Concord, and a better Grape on heavier soils. A noteworthy Gooseberry is Chantangua, said to hold its own with Industry, and affected but little by mildew. The best recent Strawberry is Indiana, firm of flesh and a good shipper. The Bulletin is well illustrated by coloured plates, and should be consulted by all fruit-growers. WINTER GRIME." To eyes unaccustomed to London grime and smoke the blackness of the parks and square gardens is very surprising, and when one hears of the wonderful gardening and the sums of money said to be lavished on them I really think somebody mu6t be rather to blame. Surely there nTe other good evergreen shrubs for winter be- sides the ubiquitous Aucuba and Euonymus ! Privet decidedly declines to come under the cate- gory of anything that is green in winter. Hollies .may he meritorious, but at this season they are positively black ! So the aspect of both squares and parks is dismal and depressing to a degree. All who are unaccustomed to such surroundings 'eel that some effort should be made to combat this unsightly squalor, and I sincerely hope the London gardening Ediles will give some little attention to the cheering and brightening up of the winter parks and squares. There is no need to go very far afield for wondrous novelties which might or might not succeed in such dismal days as those endured in this last month of January. We have, for in- stance, such cheerful and hardy things as the bright green Griselinia littoralis, so useful and hardy in smoky places in Yorkshire, where frosts are not as severe as in the open country. Olearia Traversii with its silvery reflex is, perhaps, rather too tall and tree-like, but the bright- green leaves and neat habit of Olearia Fosteri would surely surprise the eye of the passer-by. Even the well-known Olearia Haastii seems all hut unknown in London parks and gardens though of unimpeachable hardiness in clay soils and smoky climates. No doubt it flowers too late for the London "sea- soners," and its faded, dull-brown flower-heads are rather unsightly in autumn ; but even so it is far superior to the average " square" shrub and withstands both pruning, drought and digging with sturdy cheerfulness. For winter massing there is, however, one old plant of surpassing beauty which may be seen at the foot of the Ser- pentine towards the top of the Dell that surely should give 60me idea of what might be done. Acanthus mollis is the plant I mean, whose splendid foliage and rich-green tone redeem that corner from the dreary uniform of blacks and dark, sooty tones that reign generally. No doubt the plant dies down in August and is then un- sightly, but it pushes up strong and green, rich and beautiful, a6 if it were spring when the autumn rains are falling. It must not be con- founded with the smaller and much more prirkly Acanthus that is in beauty in summer gardens, and is of no U6e for this purpose, while in Lon- don at least A. mollis is a plant of the greatest value. Having spent many, hours vainly trying to eradicate this lovely but too overpowering plant in southern gardens I am all the more anxious to atone for my persecutions by praising it as a plant for more northern countries, where its seed does not come up ubiquitously and where its beauty of form and colouring is so precious in winter. Just fancy the effect if Portman Squaro or St. James's Square had bold clumps of this foliage near the railings in place of a few Lilacs or Privet ;bushes in winter, and if the dreary, stiff beds of bulbs in the parks had a few bold groups of such green leafage to break the flatness on the grass ! A few groups also of the good old Siberian Saxifrage or Megasea would always be welcome, yet where do you s:e them? All the money seems to be spent on things that need replacing constantly rather than on making green settings for a few cheerful spring flowers when that longed-for season does venture to come north, and so I make my humble protest against Grime. Edward H. Woodall. FLORISTS' FLOWERS. THE GLOXINIA. I would like to emphasise the value of Gloxinias as cut flowers. They are, so far as my experience goes, seldom used for this pur- pose, yet I have had blooms in a warm room for twelve days without changing the water. The most floriferous Gloxinias are those grown from old corms, but to maintain a supply of plants it is necessary to propagate fresh stock each year by means of leaves and seeds. I grow on the best of the old corms, discard the worst, and propagate fresh stock from plants of the most desirable form and colour by leaf- cuttings. I also sow a few seeds each year in the hopes of getting plants of superior form and colouring. The old corms are shaken free oi the soil early in January, and started in boxes filled with leaf-mould. The seeds are sown at the same time, and the young corms propagated from leaves of the previous summer (which are usually about the size of a walnut) are taken from their propagating box and started in leaf- mould about the middle of February. By this means a succession of flowers and. if I may use the term, a succession of vigour is main- tained. In a warm house the corms soon make top and bottom growth, and when they are well ad- vanced they are lifted with a good mat of roots with leaf-mould clinging to them and potted in 3-inch pots or receptacles that just accommodate them without injury to the roots. The soil cod tains plenty of leaf-mould and sand, with sifted loam at the bottom. Later the plants are shifted into 6-inch pots, in which they flower. For this potting rich turf is used, and in addition to leaf-soil and sand, peat is added, and a small quantity of Peruvian guano. The plants are not fed with liquid manure from the cow sheds until the soil is well filled with roots. Although it is not advisable -to syringe Gloxinias, they should be grown in a moist atmosphere. This can best be maintained by syringing the spaces between the plants, or, better still, by staging the plants on trelliswork above the stage with ashes or shingle, and damp- ing the latter frequently. Staking is only resorted to for the purpose of supporting drooping flowers and to prevent crowding. When the leaves are well matured some arc selected from the most pleasing plants ana are rooted in a box of sandy soil standing over the hot-water pipes. Here they are left to form roots and grow at will until they be- come dried off, when they are stored with other Gloxinias in a warm house. The seedlings are pricked out closely together when quite small, and later stood further apart in boxes where they are allowed to flower. Ii. 80 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 13, 1915. COLLERETTE DAHLIAS. The following extracts are from a paper on " The Culture of the Collerette Dahlia," read by Mr. J. T. West before the members of the National Dahlia Society at the Conference held on the 13th ult. " In dealing with the ColleTette Dahlia in this paper," remarked Mr. West, " I hope to help the amateur grower rather than the specialist, and am therefore taking as simple a point of view as possible. For Dahlia- growing the soil is not a very important point : I have grown plants in soil as light as ashes and also in brick earth, and the results have been satisfactory. It is, however, important to turn the ground thoroughly, and the more roughly it is dug the better, so that it can be pulverised by rain, sun and frost. Where the soil is of good quality it will not be necessary to add manure, or the growth of the plants will be rank, in which case they will not flower freely. Dahlias require plenty of room and air, and the minimum space allowed each plant should be 3 feet, and where it is possible 4 or 5 feet is even better. The amateur who does not raise his own plants will probably receive them from the nurseries at about the end of April, and they should then be potted into 5-inch, pots, and placed in frames, keeping them cool and avoiding over-watering. The small amateur who has neither greenhouse noT frame should not procure his plants until the end of May, which will be quite soon enough to enable him to obtain flowers as early in the season as required." Planting Dahlias. Mr. West went on to say : " When planting Dahlias, make a saucer-shaped depression around each plant to prevent the water running away, and immediately after planting, stake each plant. An excellent plan is to plant Lettuce around and amongst the Dahlias, as it has been found that slugs will often eat these instead of the Dahlia. After a few days soak the soil well with water. Throughout the season Dahlias require to be watered copiously, especially when the plants are large and the leaves are develop- ing. They will also benefit if they are sprinkled overhead late each evening, which is a preventive of thrips and red spider. As the plants con- tinue to grow side staking will be necessary, and to succeed in growing shapely bushes it is advisable to have four stakes about 15 inches from each plant, and tie the branches out to the stakes. This will allow the air to ch'culate freely amongst the stems and leaves, and enable them to carry good flowering stems. Although mulching the plants is not essential, it may be beneficial, and any short substance, such as manure, moss litter, or even spent Hops may be used. An alternative to mulching is the con- stant use of the hoe." Insect Pests. In dealing with the insect pests of Dahlias, Mr. West pointed out that " amongst the trouble- some insects are black and green fly, earwigs, thrips, red spider, the frog spit, and the earwig. The use of a flower-pot is hot a preven- tive of earwigs, as is generally supposed, unless the pots are removed every day and the vermin killed. Black fly is the woTst enemy, and I have found the best insecticide to be Abol, which has the advantages of being cheap, clean and harmless to the foliage. Soft soap and quassia are also good. Far better than any insecticide, however, is the ladybird and its larvae. These will entirely eliminate the black fly. The most difficult pest to deal with is the frog spit, for although one may remove every sign of it early in the season, later it changes into a brown jumper and comes from other gardens. The effects of its attacks can be seen on the shoots, which look as though they were stunted, and the flower buds gradu- ally grow less in size until the only thing that can be done is to cut away the plant to the first healthy break. Caterpillars must be sought for after sunset, and watering with soot water or sprinkling soot around the plant are both good preventives. This stimulant also gives colour and brightness to the flowers. Cow and sheep manure are excellent stimulants. It is of benefit to sprinkle bone-meal over the soil and hoe it in, as the surface roots feed on it." Disbudding, of Dahlias. Mr. West, in his remarks on disbudding, said that " where exhibition blooms are desired it is necessary to resort to disbudding, otherwise I am not an advocate of this method of growing Collerette Dahlias. Over-thinning to produce large blooms ruined the Double Dahlia and the Cactus, and it may ruin the Collerette, if practised too freely. 1 admire single Dahlias, and I hope the Collerette will be like them, with the difference that no wire collar should ever desecrate the neck of this section of the Dahlia family. During the last three seasons there have undoubtedly been great develop- ments in Collerette Dahlias, especially in brilliance of colour, distinctness and free- dom of flowering. These are satisfactory improvements, but in some cases I have noticed a tendency to coarseness, as though some of the Paeony blood were getting into them. It seems to me that the collar is getting too large, some- times nearly as large as the outer petals. Such flowers as Diadem and Henri Farman represent forms that ought to be taken as types. There are now many beautiful varieties that can be bought for a very small sum, but we want a pure white, with scariet, crimson, or pink collerette, and yellow with rose, maroon, or deep crimson collerette. When flowers aTe required for exhi- bition purposes it is beneficial to them if they are cut when quite young, and either early or late in the day, as they improve vastly by open- ing in water, and the colours become brighter." THOUGHTS ON AGRICULTURE SEVENTY YEARS AGO. [From the " Gardeners' Chronicle," Feb. 15, 1845.) That the bad state of cultivation in the United Kingdom arises from two causes — want of knowledge and deficiency of capital. That there is not at present employed in agri- culture a sufficient capital to farm the land pro- perly. That capital will not flow into agricultural channels whilst farming is so commonly an un- profitable occupation. That it is unprofitable more frequently from want of knowledge than from deficiency of capital. That were the necessary capital forthcoming there is not amongst landlords and farmers generally a sufficient agricultural information to apply such, increased capital profitably. That to employ the present capital of agricul- ture to the greatest advantage the existing hold- ings should be diminished in extent nearly one- half, the labour and cultivation doubled. That there exists among farmers generally an unprofitable desire for large holdings, with a email employment of labour, capital and imple- ments. That the generality of landlords and farmers consider £7 to £8 per acre a sufficient invest- ment ; whereas, double that sum is scarcely an adequate profitable capital, affording the means of effective cultivation. That the non-valuation of tenants' improve- ments to the succeeding tenants, and the facile appropriation of those improvements by the landlord to his own use, in the shape of an in- creased rent, blinds him to equity, but has a tendency to frequent removals and is a premium to bad cultivation and non-improvement. That annual tenures, short leases, and a mis- taken affection on the part of landlords for ugly worthless pollards and scrubby, stunted timber are important causes of los6 in agriculture. That a morbid desire to retain a political and feudal influence over the conscience of the tenant prevails extensively, is discreditable and de- moralising, having no good effect, but creating subservience and a want of manly independence on one side, and on the other - tendency to in- justice or oppression. That the letting of farms should be treated as a matter of business, in which the obligations and benefits axe as mutual as in any other pecu- niary transaction of trade or commerce. That the remedy for these evils is the com- munication of agricultural knowledge to both landlords and tenants. That this knowledge will be best promoted and diffused by agricultural schools or colleges: with farms attached, on the principle of that excellent one now established at Cirencester. That there should be one or more such esta- blishments in every county in the United King- dom. That there should be agricultural endowed col- leges of the Bret order under authority, where students should qualify by superior practical and theoretic knowledge, passing their examinations and obtaining their agricultural diplomas the same as in law or medicine. That such qualified individuals would thus spread over the country agricultural schools and farms, advantageous alike to themselves and to the rising generation of farmers, who would imbibe sound theoretical and practical instruc- tion. That such instruction would render farming a more uniform, -more profitable, and more gen- tlemanly occupation. That in consequence capital would more readily be attracted to farming purposes in ample amounts, the character of our farmers raised, ths strength of our nation increased, and ample provision made for years to come, for the employment of our increasing population and capital. That if knowledge is power, ignorance must be weakness, individually and nationally. That increased knowledge, capital, and profit in our farmeries must enhance the value of landed property, increase the comfoTt and in- telligence of the landlord and labourer, and have a beneficial influence on trade, commerce and manufacturers, for we are all links in one great chain, depending on each other for support. THE MARKET FRUIT CAROEN. PROGRESSIVE SPOTTING OF APPLES. On page 39 reference was made to the spotting of Apples in my fruit chamber. When that re- ference was made Bramley's Seedling was only slightly affected, but by January 18 the spotting had become so much more common that the mar- keting of the fruit was begun, although it was keeping remarkably well, apart from the spot- ting. The Apples were carefully selected for soundness when they were stored in the last week of October, so there is no doubt as to the spot- ting having taken place in the fruit chamber. It did not affect the keeping of the Apples, nor did it affect their value for use, as the spots were only skin deep. But it did affect their market value greatly, many bushels of the largest fruits having been packed as seconds instead of firsts. The rot-spots varied in size from the tiniest speck to the dimensions of a Sweet Pea seed, and in number ranged from about 20 to 170 (counted on one large fruit). The largest fruits were worst affected. If any reader has had a similar attack it would be interesting to read any note on the subject. Experts to whom specimen Apples were sent had never seen such an attack before. It is import- ant to notice that there is no corky degeneration of tissue under the rot-spots, as there is in either bitter pit or Apple fruit spot (Cylindrosporium pomi. When an affected Apple was pared it was as free from blemish as the soundest. The most vexatious feature of the case is the lack of knowledge .as to the cause of the infliction, and the consequent inability to take measures for its prevention. It has been suggested that the origin was the pierc- ing of the Apples by some insect ; but I have never seen or heard of an insect which pierces an Apple in 20 to 170 places, and Mt. Theobald says that he does not know of anything which would do this. A Southern Grower. Frr.r.CART 13, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 81 POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (XIV). LE MARCHE DE COVENT GARDEN. (Suite de la p. 70.) Il y a enfin jusqu'aux lointains pays orien- taux qui manifestent leur existence a Covent Garden par l'envoi des lychees du Japon et de Chine. Particulierement importants sont cependant les iles de l'Amerique Oentrale, les Indes Occi- dentals, qui furent les premieres a recevoir la visits des Europeens au cours des voyages qui suivirent la decouverte de Christophe Colomb. Ces iles jouissent d'un climat exoessivement chaud et humide, la vegeta- tion y est splendide et de nombreuses especes de fruits tropicaux de qualite excellente y sont indigenes. Des cultures raisonnees en ont ete etablies, particulierement dans la Jamaique ; des lignes de navigation ont ete speeialement creees en vue de l'exploitation de ces cultures et des millions de regimes de Bananes, de caisses d'Oranges, de Poires d'avocadier, de Mangues, de Grape fruit, et d'autres fruits tropicaux, sor.t diriges sur Covent Garden. Outre Is Grand Hall, Covent Garden renferme du cote nord un local couvert ou se font les ventes aux encheres, et au sud, deux autres salles destinees a la vente des fleurs et plantes. L'aspect du Hall au Nord est saisissant au moment des grandes ventes. II est connu sous le nom de Floral Hall, bien que les transactions y operees concernent surtout les fruits. Dans la matinee une dizaine de crieurs amies de leur traditionnel marteau sont repartis dans le Hall, debout derriere leur banc, et fianques de secre- taires. Des porteurs font denier des echantillons dans le passage reserve entre le banc du crieur et ceux du public. Sans cesse le crieur martelle son pupitre, annonQant a grands cris le nom des acquereurs d'autant de caisses ou barils conformed a l'echantillon montre. II est a re- marquer en effet que la masse des envois n'ost pas amenee sous les yeux des amateurs, qui doivent se fier a la bonne foi de l'expediteur. A tout moment des clameurs etourdissantes s'elevent : un nouveau lot est presente a l'un des bancs et tout le personnel se met a crier it tous poumons pour l'annoncer au public range devant les autres vendeurs. Acheteurs et spectateurs Be melent parfois a ces appels, un instant alors le Hall retentit de clameurs, toute vente est arretee, mais immediatement les vendeurs semblent re- gretter cet arret, ils se ressaisissent, leur marteau se remet a fonctionner et les lots fiuccedent aux lots. (A suivre.) NOUVELLES DE BRUXELLES. Nous avons eu le plaisir de recevoir quelques nouvelles de Bruxelles. Nous les donnons ci- dessous pour autant qu'elles interessent l'horticul- ture. II fait calme au marche. Les Allemands y sont le6 meilleurs clients. Aux Halles des Producteurs, la cooperative de vente des viticulteurs, horticulteurs et maraichers, il est question de ne plus ouvrir les locaux que deux fois par semaine, les envois de Raisin qui con- stituent le gros des ventes a cette epoque de I'annee etant tellement reduits, rnalgre Timpos- sibilite d'en exporter directement des centres de production. Cette situation est due au fait qu'une grande partie de la recolte tardive fut Coupee des l'annonce de l'invasion. Ce qui resta fut conduit de telle facon a murir pendant lc6 premiers mois de l'hiver. Cette suppression de jours de vente serait unique dans l'histoire des Halles de Producteurs. Le gros article en ce moment C6t la Ohicoree de Bruxelles, dont la production est a peu pres normale. Cette culture debute en effet des le mois de mai, et lorsque la guerre eclata de grandes quantites de racines etaient disponibles dont les maraichers ont, malgre tout, cherche a tirer profit. Seule parmi les clients etrangers, la Hollande recoit ses envois usuels. Tout le reste est jete sur le marche de Bruxelles. Le prix y est generalement de 16 a 17 fr. les 100 kilos. Le charbon, qui fit longtemps defaut, com- mence a, arriver. Les Allemands l'amenent par chemin de fer. Le prix a la mine n'a pas varie, mais les frais de transport sont doubles. A HoeylaeTt on paie 59 fr. au lieu de 27 ! Decide- ment ces gens font argent de tout ! Ce qu'il faut admirer chez une partie de la population e'est la serenite avec laquelle elle tache de refaire sa vie econoniique. II n'y a pas de forceries de novembre, le charbon n'etant pas encore disponible alors, mais des la mi-decembre nombre de producteurs ont allume le6 feux de leurs serres. Ils savent que les pires evenements peuvent surgir, que leurs serres peuvent etre detruites au cours de la retraite et qu'en tout cas la vente est tres problematique, neanmoins ils se remettent stoiquement a la besogne. Puissent leurs efforts ne pas etre vains ! Certains horticulteurs se sont vus obliges de lioencier une partie de leur personnel, les recettes etant insuffisantes pour le payer. En general cependant des efforts sont faits pour le garder, l'horticulture aux environs de Bruxelles ayant un fort caractere d'industrie familiale, mais les salaires ont ete reduits de 20 a 25 pour cent. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Restauration de l Horticulture en Belgigue et en France. — A la reunion annuelle de la Societe Royale d'Horticulture d'Angleterre, tenue mardi dernier a Vincent Square, Westminster, il a ete decide de prendre des mesures pour la creation d'un fonds en vue de la restauration de l'horticulture beige et francaise, des que la guerre sera finie. La Guerre et l H orticu ltur e en France. — Comme suite a nos communications sur ee sujet nous reproduisons une lettre adressee recemment par un horticulteur francais qui a ete rappele sous les drapeaux. Elle donne egalement une idee de l'excellent esprit qui regne dans l'armee frangaise : — " Vous avez de la chance que le commerce marche. Ici il est presque mort sauf quelques maison6 touohant a l'alimentation ou aux fourniturcs militaires. D'ailleurs le personnel et les chefs manquent partout, plus de 5 millions d'hommes etant sous les armes. Mais le courage est intact, et avec les renforts que vous nous envoyez et le prin- temps qui s'approche on pourra bientot frapper le grand coup et en finir avec ces Boches de niaiheur. Vive I'alliance cordiale et a bas la barbarie teutonne ! " Les Sympathies des Horticulteurs Hollandais. — Nos confreres hollandais sem- blent en grande majorite carrement favorables a la cause des allies, et ce malgre les avantages que beaucoup d'entr'eux retirent de la situa- tion de l'Allemagne. II est incontestable que le blocus oblige le consommateur allemand a 6e procurer une quantite de produits en Hollande et les producteurs de fruits, legumes et memo de fleurs en profitent largement. C'est ce qui explique que la situation du marche horticole neerlandais est generalement favorable, malgre' le malaise cause par la guerre. Cependant les atteintes portees au droit, particulieremenit en ce qui concerne la Belgique, revoltent beaucoup de consciences, et il faut croire que la protesta- tion du fonctionnaire Haarlemois, a laquelle nous avons fait allusion la semaine derniere (voir p. 70), n'est pas unique. Le mot d'ordre donne aux sources officielles est de se taire, de mettre un frein aux manifestations de sympathie, pour eviter que les Allemands ne cessent leurs achats dans les centres horticoles. Pour le moment ik sont sans doute heureux de pouvoir s'approvi- sionner en Hollande de Pommes de terre, Oignons et Choux, bien que les organes hor- ticoles allemands traitent publiquement les Hollandais de germanophobes. Nous emegis- trons avec plaisir cette attitude de beaucoup d'horticulteurs de Hollande ; elle prouve que la piece d'argent allemande ne les empeche pas tous d'emettre une saine opinion ! Le Commandant Sohie, du genie beige, dont nous avons annonce la mort sur l'Yser (voir p. 344, 1914), etait tombe blesse grievement. Pendant vingt quatre heures il fut impossible de l'approcher tellement le feu allemand etait in- tense. Quand on put le relever, le malheureux etait absolument exsangue et tout soin fut inutile. Le Lieutenant Digoy, de l'armee francaise, un ancien de Kew, vient d'etre blesse au front. Une lettre qu'il adressait quelques heures aupara- vant a un collegue qui devait tomber aucounsdu menie engagement, montre le brillant esprit qui l'animait. Nous formons les meilleurs voeux pour son prompt retablissement. M. Henri Nonin, fils du Chrysanthemiste M. A. Nonin, qui avait ete blesse au front et fut ulterieurement atteint de fievre typhoide, est completement retebli et a pu rejoindre son regiment. Parmi les Horticulteurs francais rappeles sous les drapeaux, il convient de citer M. L. Taucheron, secretaire de la Socie'.e d'Horticulture pratique du Rhone, qui fait son service en qualite de medecin militaire. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAMINGEN. Ten Noorden der eigenlijke markt van Covent Garden is de Floral Hall of roepzaal, waar het vreemd fruit in't groot wordt verkocht. Van hier uit vindende koloniale vruchten als Banancn en Pijnappels liunnen weg over Engeland en een deel van't Vasteland. Het schouwspel is er zeer eigenaardig; soms gaat er oorverdoovend gedruisch op als de " roepers " en hunne helpers de liefhebbers naar hunnen kant wenschen. In Brussel is er kwestie maar twee maal per week verkoop van fruit te houden, zoo weinig wordt er nog aangebracht. De Duitschois leveren nu steenkool maar ei6chen meer dan dubbele vergelding voor het vervcer. Sommige druivenkweekers hebben de vuren in bunno serren aangestoken en trachten op't goed valle't uit vroeg fruit te -winnen. Het Witloof is zeer overvloedig en staat nu 16 tot 17 fr. per honderd kilogram. Onlangs werd er naar Rotterdam ge- zonden, van daar naar Louden en van L<" naar Parijs ! In Holland wordt er op aangedrongen d.il di tuinbouwers die thans zooveel zaken met de Duitschers doen, geene voorkeur in den volke- renstrijd zouden te kenncn geven. Vele tuin- bouwers nochtans verhergen geenszina de gevoe- lens die hen bezielen ten opzichte der duil handelwijze jegens Belgie. 82 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 13, 1915. The Week's Work. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Lady Nunburnholmb, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Seed Sowing.— Sow seeds of Chinese Primulas, Begonias, Gloxinias, Streptocarpus, Celosias, Smilax, Schizanthus, Clerodendrons, Coleus, Grevillias and the like. Water the soil, sow the seeds, cover the seed-pans with a sheet of glass, and place in a temperature of 70°. The Show Houses.— It will not be a diffi- cult matter to maintain a succession of flowers in the conservatory and greenhouse from now on- wards. Forced shrubs will provide plenty of variety, and the plants will now respond readily to warmth. Those already in flower include Lilacs, Azaleas of the Ghent and Mollis types, double and single forms of Prunus, Deutzia, Staphylea colchica, Wistarias, and Dielytra spectabilis. Spiraeas and Lily-of-the-Valley grown from home-raised crowns will give further variety. Rhododendrons, Guelder Roses, Lilacs and Laburnums may be introduced into gentle heat to flower at Easter. Syringe the trees freely, and maintain a tempera- ture of 55° to b0° ; by this treatment growth will develop fast enough for flowering at the season stated. Examine the various bulbs and place fresh batches in heat according to re- quirements. Mere protection from frost will greatly assist in bringing forward such bulbs as Scilla, Crocus, Anemone, Hyacinth, Ranunculus and Narcissus. Forced plants which have passed out of flower and are making growth should be treated with care, as they will be use- ful for forcing again early next season. Gloxinia. — Beautiful varieties of these plants may now be raised from seed, and few trouble to raise their stock from named varieties. If the seeds are sown now good plants will be obtained to succeed those grown from selected cornis saved from the previous season. Seed- ling Gloxinias require very careful treatment, and neglect in the early stages is fatal to good results. They should be pricked off into pans as soon as they are large enough to handle, and potted singly before the roots become matted. After the plants are established they may be grown with little trouble, and in a much lower temperature than is often afforded them. A light compost suits these plants best. A mix- ture of equal parts sandy loam, peat, leaf-mould, with a liberal sprinkling of sand, is suitable, add- ing a small quantity of decayed manure for the final potting. Tuberose. — Tubers should be potted into 3-inch pots in light, sandy loam, burying them three parts their depth in the soil. Remove the small tubers at the side, also any suckers which may develop after potting, as soon as they ap- pear. Plunge the pots in a bottom-heat of 75°, and water the soil very sparingly until growth commences. Re-pot the plants into 5 or 6-incn pots as soon as the flower-spikes are 6 inches high, and grow them in a warm pit. Use the syringe freely on bright days to keep down at- tacks of red spider. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. R. LysagHT, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Seedlings. —Seedlings may be potted directly they fill their first pots with roots, irrespective of the season, and if kept clean they will soon reach the flowering stage. The compost should consist of a mixture of fibrous peat and Sphag- num-moss cut into fine portions. A temperature of 60° is suitable. Keep the surroundings moist, and spray the plants overhead lightly to promote a luxuriant and quick growth. Masdevallia. — Some growers repot these Orchids in September, but where the work was not carried out at that date, the present is a suitable time to supply fresh rooting material to plants that need it. The showy and brilliant M. Veitchiana grandiflora, M. ignea, M. coccinea with its several varieties of the Harryana type, are all strong growers, making vigorous roots, and need ample pot space. The dwarf species, such as M. Arminii, M. Estradae, M. Ephip- pium, M. gemmata, M. peristeria, and M. tri- dactylites, are best grown in pans, and, if stage room is scarce, they will thrive equally as well suspended from the roof-rafters, but in this case a little extra care is needed in watering. The Chimaera group, which embraces M. bella, M. radiosa, M. Chestertonii and M. Vespertilio, are best grown in teak-wood baskets, the flower- scapes being often produced in a downward direction, and particularly through the sides of the baskets. Potsherds should not be used for drainage ; a good substitute is a few sterilised peat sticks, or anything that will not impede the progress of the flower-spikes. Plants be- longing to this section should be grown in a little extra warmth during the winter months, and each plant should be suspended about 2 feet from the roof-glass. Where a house is not avail- able for Masdevallias alone, the warmer end of the Odontoglossum house will suit them. Each plant should be examined to ascertain if repotting or top-dressing is necessary, but those that have plenty of space for future develop- ment, and with soil in a good condition, should not be disturbed. Let the pots or pans be well drained, and for compost use a mixture of Osmunda-fibre, Polypodium-fibre, and Sphag- num-moss in equal proportions, with a sprinkling of crushed crocks to keep the mixture porous. In repotting, let the base of the plants be on a level with the rim of the receptacle, and press the soil fairly firm, but not so hard as will prevent the free passage of water. Masdevallias have no pseudo-bulbs, and the most critical stage is a few weeks after the roots have been disturbed and until they are re-established. An excess of w*ater will result in loss of many leaves, therefore afford moisture sparingly. But when the new roots are seen creeping on the surface of the compost, and especially when they reach the edge of the pot, water may be applied more frequently. Notwithstanding the small need for water now, the plants must never be dry at their roots. Thrips occasionally attack Masde- vallias, but if the house is lightly vapourised once ever}' two or three weeks the pests will be kept in check. Odontoglossum.— Plants of 0. crispum, and its numerous hybrids, also the pretty Odontiodas, are in bloom more or less all the year round. In consequence, some one or more of the plants may need repotting at all seasons. If this work is done when the new growths ari.1 about 2 inches long, and new roots developing at the base, no harm will result in repotting at any time. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire). Gooseberries and Currants.— After these bushes are pruned fork the ground and manure it if necessary. In digging the ground take care not to injure the roots, for many of them grow near to the surface. Where Goose- berries or Currants are gTown in quarters by themselves raise a number of young bushes each year to replace any that are more than eight or nine years old, for the finest fruits are pro- duced by young trees. Complete the work of pruning all kinds of bush fruits as soon as possible. Fruit Tree IBorders.- The ground should be forked lightly and the surface mulched as soon as the work of pruning and training of the branches is completed. Trees planted since last autumn should be well mulched, to protect vhe roots from injury by frost ; they should also be supported firmly by stakes. Figs.— The Fig being one of the latest of fruit trees to commence growth, it is not too late to undertake planting. Figs should be grown in the warmest part of the garden, and, for pre- ference, against a wall facing south, or south- west. The soil must be well drained, and, if the nature of the subsoil is such that water cannot pass away freely, dig out a trench two to three feet deep, place at the bottom a layer of brickbats, or similar materia^,, ajbtl cover these with newly cut turves placed grass side down- wards. Mix plenty of lime rubble with the soil, which should consist of rich loam. After planting, mulch the surface with a layer of half- decayed manure. The Brown Turkey variety is generally planted in the open, but White Mar seilles, Brunswick, and Osborn's Prolific are also- suitable for outdoor cultivation. Do not prune the trees for the present, and in localities other than the south or west of England have ready protective material for use in frosty weather. Dry Bracken Fern is suitable for the purpose, for it is easily applied, and does not exclude the air. The Fruit-Room— When the weather is unfavourable for work out of doors, members of the staff may be engaged in removing damaged and decaying fruits from the fruit- room and spreading out the sound ones to allow a current of air to pass between each specimen. Late Pears, in particular, should be examined frequently, and, if needs be, wiped with a dry cloth, for all trace of moisture should be removed from them. The atmosphere of the fruit-room should be kept perfectly dry, but not by the use of fire-heat. General Remarks.— Take advantage of fine weather to complete the work of planting, which is greatly in arrears in most gar- dens. In frosty weather stakes may be trimmed, painted, and generally made ready for use. The wires on fruit walls should be examined carefully, and defective wires, eyes, or strainers made good. New wire should be well painted before fastening the trees in position, or the branches may become damaged by the iron. Make the necessary pre- parations for spraying orchard and other trees. Apply the wash during calm, mild days, and not during frosty weather. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By A. J. Cobb. Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duflryn, South Wales. Lawns. —When the turf is sufficiently dry use the roller frequently on lawns in preparation for the mowing-machines next month. Mossy patches should be well raked with a sharp-toothed iron rake, and all weeds removed by hand. Lawn grasses need nourishment in common with all other plants, and this should be afforded in whatever form is deemed advisable or convenient. Too often it is not sufficiently realised that a great strain is placed on the roots of grasses by continued and close mowing during at least six months of the year. Where the soil is im- poverished, nothing is better than top-dressing with a mixture of three parts thoroughly decayed manure, such as from an old hot-bed, and one part sifted ashes from the rubbish yard fire. The drier these materials are used the easier are they mixed and spread over the turf. Where large areas have to be dealt with the horse-drawn roller-cart is an excellent implement, and its use effects a great saving of labour, as the materials can be hauled direct and scattered from the cart. This cart is of value for rolling the turf, and its weight can be increased by placing something heavy in it. A whalebone turf-brush is useful for distributing the top-dressing, also for scattering worm casts. Concentrated fertilisers should be spread over the surface when the grass commences to grow, and should be washed in bv rains before or between mowing operations. Turfing should be completed as soon as possible. Early in April will be soon enough for sowing grass seed, but the time for this operation should be regulated by the weather, soil condition and locality. Lilium.— Large quantities of Lily bulbs are imported from Japan early in each year, and a glance at the advertisements of sales indicates that the present season is no exception to the rule. The bulbs are packed in cases, which, if purchased unopened, should be examined immediately they are received. Should fungus be present on the bulbs cut off the affected parts and sprinkle sulphur on the cut surfaces. Pre- paratory to planting the bulbs in their flowering quarters, toward the end of April, those of L. auratum, L. speciosum, L. Henryi, L. parda- Febrdaht 13, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 83 liuum (the North American Panther Lily), and L. longiflorum and its varieties, should all be started in a cold frame. For convenience of transferring them to their permanent positions the bulbs may be potted or boxed. If the latter method is adopted choose boxes sufficiently deep to allow each bulb to rest on a small square of peat, and just cover the bulbs with a mixture of peat, leaf-mould and sand. Admit plenty of air to the frame, and remove the lights entirely when growth commences, replacing them during times of heavy rains or frosts. With the ex- ception of L. Henry i, which is a lime-lover, there is no better position for planting Lilies than amongst beds of Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Heaths. Take care not to damage the roots in planting. The tall and graceful L. Henryi makes a handsome group in the herbaceous or mixed border. Others to be recommended for the same purpose are L. croceum, L. chalcedonicum, L. umbellatum, L. tigrinum and its varieties Fortunei and splendens. These bulbs may be planted direct in the border, making a pocket for each bulb with sandy soil. L. Hansomi does splendidly under the shade or drip of trees where sufficient light can penetrate, such as skirting a woodland. Plant from 4 to 9 inches deep, ac- cording to the size of the individual bulb. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Pears in Cool HousES.-Owing to the comparatively mild winter the buds of Pear trees are unusually prominent, therefore the work of pruning and cleaning should be completed with- out delay. Examine the border to ascertain if water is required, for if the soil is allowed to become dry at the flowering period, the result will be fatal to a good set of fruit. The practice of thinning the clusters before the blossoms ex- pand has much to commend it, and, if time per- mits, amply repays for the extra trouble. Ventilate the house freely at this stage, but not in frosty weather. After the fruits have set, sufficient atmospheric moisture can usually be maintained by damping the floor and paths several times a day, but it is sometimes advis- able to syringe the trees lightly to keep down attacks of red spider, and to cleanse the foliage of sooty deposits. Peaches. — Fruits on the earliest trees are swelling and the branches should be syringed with tepid water twice daily in. fine weather, but not to such an extent as to keep the trees constantly wet. Water applied to the roots should be warmed to a temperature of from 65° to 70°. Maintain a night temperature of 55°, allowing it to rise to 65° during the day with sun heat. Ventilation should be done carefully and air must be admitted, not with the view of lowering the temperature, but to prevent it rising. The fruits should be thinned as soon as it can be seen that they are swelling, for it is a mistake to leave more fruits on the trees than are re- quired for a crop, as they would need to be removed after the stoning stage, when the trees are most heavily taxed. The forcing of succes- sion trees must be determined to a large extent by the demands of the establishment. Those started now must be grown in plenty of atmo- spheric moisture and sprayed gently with tepid water, which will tend to soften the buds and quicken their growth. As the ■bfossoms open the house should be kept somewhat drier, with a free circulation of air, and, to ensure a good set, the flowers should be .pollinated by dusting them with a soft brush or rttfifcit's tail daily. As soon as the fruits are set give the trees a good syringing to assist them to throw off the faded flowers. Trees in later houses will develop gradually, and only in severe weather should fire-heat be used. Melons.— Early plants may either be shifted into 12 inch pots, in which they will fruit, or set in beds. If pots are used, stand them on turves, in which the roots will grow later, thus furnishing additional soil for the plants in their later stages. After planting, shade the plants from bright sunshine until they are re-estab- lished. Maintain a night temperature of 65°, with a rise of 10° to 15° during the day, and keep the atmosphere moist by damping the walls and paths frequently. The plants must not be overwatered at this stage; indeed, it is a wise precaution to allow the soil to become almost dry, and then to soak it thoroughly. Admit air when the temperature rises to 80° or 85u, closing the ventilators early in the after- noon. Sow seed to raise plants for furnishing ripe fruits about the middle of June, and mean- time prepare the bed for planting, in order that the soil may become warmed to the same tem- perature as the house. The soil should consist of rich, heavy loam mixed with lime rubble. Plant in mounds made of the finer soil, about 2^ feet apart. THE "FRENCH" GARDEN. By P. Aquatias. Cold Work.— In transplanting the Lettuces the majority of the cloches will be available, and they may be transferred to the portion pre- pared previously by deep digging, afterwards sown with Radish or Spinach. Set the glasses in beds of 3 rows each. Plant three Cabbage Lettuces underneath each cloche, with either one Cos Lettuce or one Cauliflower in the centre. Cauliflowers will be planted later among the Lettuces set in the frames early in January, 24 to each frame, for such varieties as Snowball, and 15 of such larger varieties as All the Year Round. As growth advances, spread mats over the cloches whenever there is a frost, to prevent moisture freezing on the glass, which would cause the plants to remain in the dark till late in the morning. A little ventilation may be afforded to the Lettuce White Passion during bright sunshine, and the amount of fresh air should be increased gradually as the plants develop. Nursery Beds.— Prepare hot-beds in a sheltered position to accommodate a few frames for the sowing of Celeries Chemin and Winter Green, Tomatos and Cauliflowers. Leeks may be sown amongst the Tomatos and Cauliflowers. Of Leeks, London Broad Flag is a quick grower, but as a main crop either the Carentan or Musselburg is preferable. Prepare a special hot-bed, 12 inches thick, for raising Vegetable Marrows, though these plants are best reared in a Cucumber house, when such is available. Sow in cold frames seeds of Cabbage Lettuce Webb's Wonderful and Cos Lettuce Paris White, Brussels Sprouts The Wroxton, and Onions Giant Zittau and Bedford Champion to raise plants for transplanting outside in April and May. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Peas in Pots.— A sowing of Little Marvel and Chelsea Gem varieties may be made in 9- inch pots, and the plants will furnish pods in April. Crock the pots carefully, and fill them to within a few inches of the rim with rich loam mixed with a small quantity of decayed manure. Place twelve seeds in each pot. When the young plants are well through the soil place more soil in the pots, but leave sufficient room for watering. The seeds may be germinated in a house or pit with a temperature of 50°. Ventilate the house freely and grow the plants near to the roof-glass. Potatos in Pots.— A few dishes of early Potatos may be produced in pots without much trouble in a, cool Peach house, or any glass- house with a temperature of 50°. When the plants are well through the surface expose them fully to the light and admit sufficient air to prevent the shoots from becoming drawn. Pots 9 inches in diameter are suitable for the purpose, and should be well drained. Fill them to one- third their depth with rich loam mixed with a small quantity of manure from a spent Mushroom bed. Place three tubers which have been pre- viously started in shallow boxes in each pot, and cover them with soil, leaving the remainder of the space to be filled later with compost. Early -Cabbage. — Cabbages planted in Sep- tember should be examined carefully, and all vacancies filled with plants from the seed bed. The surplus plants may then be transplanted into nursery beds for setting out later. As soon as the ground is dry enough, break the surface with a hoe or the point of a digging fork. Fre- quent light dressings of lime will serve to keep slugs in check, and soot should also be applied in the spring for the same purpose. If the stock of plants is deficient, there should be no delay in sowing seeds of an early variety, in order to have plants as early in the season as pos- sible. Sow the seeds thinly in boxes, and germinate them in a temperature of 50°. When the plants are well through the soil, harden them gradually, and later transplant them in a box frame, which may be removed and used for another purpose as soon as the plants can do without protection. Successive sowings should be made throughout the spring and early summer, in order to have a continual supply of Cabbages throughout the season. Parsnips.— The ground, having been trenched in early winter, should now be forked over and allowed to remain rough on the surface until dry enough for the sod to crumble to pieces. Make the soil as fine and even as possible before the drills are made, which should be done as early in February as possible. Allow a distance of 18 inches between the drills, and sow the seeds carefully, choosing a quiet morning for the purpose. If extra large, well-shaped roots are desired, make holes in well-prepared soil with a dibber or crowbar to the depth of 2 feet, but this must be done when the soil is dry. The compost should consist of rich, sandy soil passed through a fine sieve to remove stones, incorporated with a quantity of finely sifted manure. Place the richest soil at the bottom of the holes, sow six seeds in the mouth of each hole, and cover them lightly with fine soil. When the time for thinning arrives, select the best plant as near to the centre of each hole as possible. Slugs are often troublesome to this crop, and must be kept in check by dusting the soil frequently with soot or lime. Brussels Sprouts. -If sprouts are re- quired early in the autumn, sow seeds in a cold frame with as little delay as possible. When the plants are well through the soil, venti- late the frame freely. When the plants are large enough to handle, transplant them in a sheltered position, allowing 6 inches be- tween the plants each way. Dickson's Ideal and Dwarf Gem are suitable varieties for early sowing. Brussels Sprouts succeed best in a rich, retentive soil in an open situation. THE APIARY. By Chloris. Dysentery. -The prolonged mild and wet weather has a serious tendency to produce dysen- tery in bees. Especially is this the case ■where sugar-feeding has been carried on improperly, because such sugar produces more waste than, honey-feeding, and this, combined with the damp state of many hives, accentuates the trouble. On a fine, warm day the beekeeper can discover whether his bees are suffering from this disease without disturbing them in the least. On such days the bees, after long imprisonment, take a cleansing flight to void excreta, which Nature has decreed they must do on the wing, and only under stress of disease do they do it in the hive on the combs. The excrement at these times is dark and muddy, and if voided in the hives gives off a very offensive odour. The hives are marked outside by small patches. The bees themselves are slow in their movement on account of their weak state, and the number of deaths increases abnormally, at a time when every bee is of the greatest importance to the welfare of the colony. Fermented and unsealed honey and thin syrup made from other than cane sugar are some of the causes combined with the prolonged period detained indoors. Where bees are care- fully housed for the winter and fed on sealed honey or good thick syrup they rarely suffer from dysentery. Remove the bees from the soiled hive, give them a clean one with unsoiled combs of sealed honey, made up to the required amount by good candy, if necessary, place on plenty of quilts and a cushion filled loosely with chaff, dry leaves, or cork dust. See that" the hive is well ventilated. Confine the bees to as few combs as possible, to increase the warmth of the clusteo . and reduce the space of the brood chamber by using the division boards. 84 THE GA RDENERS9 CHRONICLE. [February 13, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICZ, ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER. 41. Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C- Editors and Publisher- — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save its much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing 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 EDrrons. The two departments. Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed. Special Notice to Correspondents- — The Editors do not undertake to pay for any contribu- tions or illustrations, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement. The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for any opinions expressed by their correspondents. Illustrations— The Editors will be glad to receive and to select photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of gardens, or of remarkable flowers, trees, etc., but they cannot be respon- sible for loss or injury. Local News— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to the Editors early intelligence of local events likely to be of interest to our readers, or vf any matters which it is desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists. appointments~fortheTnsuing WEEK. TUESDAY. FEBRUARY 16— Roy. Hort. Soc. corns, meet. (Lecture at 3 p.m. on " The Trees of the Cambridge Botanic Garden," bv Mr. R. I. Lynch.) Hort. Club ann. meet, and dinner at Hotel Windsor. WEDNESDAY. FEBRUARY 17— Salisbury Gard. Soc. meet. Roy. Met. Soc. meet. THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18— Manchester and N. of Eng. Orchid Soe. meet. Eov. Soc. meet. Linnean Soc. meet. Average Meaji Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 39. 4. Actual Temperatures : — LONDON, February 10 (6 p.m.) : 45°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 11, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London; Thursday, February 11 (10 a.m.) ; Bar. 29.3 ; Temp. 40°. Weather.— Foggy. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, WEDNESDAY AND FRIDAY— Herbaceous Plants, Hardy Bulbs, Roses, etc., by Protheroe and Morris, at 12, 67 and 68, Cheapside, MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— J*! Trees, Shrubs, Perennials, etc., at Stevens' Rooms, King Street, Covent Garden. TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY— Three days' 'sale of Nursery Stock at Milford Nur- series, near Godalming. bfr order of Messrs. M Young and Sons, by Protheroe audi Morris, at 12 30 WEDNESDAY— Fruit Trees, Roses. Azaleas, etc., at 1. 576 c/s Japanese. Lihums, at 3. Miscellaneous Bulbs, at 12 bv Protheroe and Morris. THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1 FRIDAY— Orchids, by Protheroe and Morris, at 12.45. The second part of Mr. Problems of Hall's presidential ad- Production in , , r ., . . , Agriculture. dress to the Agricul- tural Section of the British Association was delivered at Bris- bane and dealt with " Problems of Pro- duction in Agriculture." Mr. Hall pointed out that if increase of population continues, there will come a time when the land, if it is to support the increased population, must be made to yield more than at present. The high density of population in Japan and China (1,900 per square mile), as compared with that of European countries (ninety in Eng- land. 120 in Ireland, and 200 in Belgium) is apt to mislead land reformers. In con- sidering such figures attention must be directed to the fact that the labourer in the East receives 6d. for a full day's work. Again, calculating the productiveness of a selected farm in Britain, Mr. Hall finds that its produce would suffice to support a population of 1,000 to the square mile — if the people were able and willing to live at the low subsistence level of the Orien- tal small farrrer. Although it is true that the number of people supported by agriculture in Britain is greater than would appear from the number of those cultivating the land, nevertheless the pressure of an increasing population will necessitate a higher agri- cultural efficiency than that which obtains at present. That higher efficiency can only come as the result of the consistent and persistent application of science to agriculture. The problems that await scientific solu- tion are many. Among them is the econo- mic application of nitrogen. As the soil be- comes increasingly productive, so does the waste through loss of nitrogen in- crease. Of the nitrogen added to a well- cultivated soil, only half finds its way into the crop, the other half, undergoing con- version by certain soil-bacteria into free nitrogen, escapes into the air. How to stop this nitrogen leak is one of 'the • great problems which face the scien- tific agriculturist. Incidentally the facts are worth the attention of the horticul- turist from another point of view, which may be illustrated thus : Give 1001b. of nitrate of soda to an acre of land and all the nitrogen of the fertiliser is recovered by the crop ; give 2001b. per acre and there will be a waste of some 25 per cent. What is true of this artificial is equally or even more true of "natural " manure. The prevention of this waste lies in the control of the soil-bacteria responsible for the waste. How to control these agents on a broad scale we do not know, though on the small scale of greenhouse cultiva- tion it mav be done by soil-sterilisation. Another of the problems which Mr. Hall discusses is the restriction of the supply of dung, due to the advent of the motor. The market gardener who relies on forty or more tons of manure to the acre must learn betimes how to do with less, and here the cultivation of legumin- ous green crops — as fixers of nitrogen — may prove to be the cheapest solution. Yet another problem is that of increasing the efficiency of the green leaf — the one and only begetter of food for man and beast, it will come as a blow to many to learn the facts — long ago established by botanists — that the green leaf is but an inefficient apparatus and that it stores in the shape of plant materials only 1 per cent, of the energy that falls upon it as light. Compared with an oil engine or even the old-fashioned steam-engine, the green leaf is sadly inefficient. It is a task of the scientific agriculturist to discover if and how the green leaf may be speeded up in its work of manufacture. Lastly, among the great problems of scientific agricul- ture which Mr. Hall discusses with such insight is the most important of all, namely, how to get the work done. In his treatment of this subject Mr. Hall takes the view often and strenuously in- sisted on in these pages that the work of research in agriculture should be com- mitted to Universities and not to Govern- ment Departments. Coloured Plate.— The subject of the* Coloured Plate to be issued with our next Hum- mer is Pyracantha crenulata. Horticultural Club.— The annual general meeting of the members of tho Horticultural Club will take place on Tuesday, February 16, at 5 p.m., in the club room, Hotel Windsor, Vic- toria Street, Westminster. The meeting will bo followed by the annual dinner, which will take place at 6 p.m. at the same hotel. After dinner there will be a mimical programme, provided by the president, Sir Frank Crisp, Bart. Royal Meteorological Society.— A meeting of the society will be held at the Sur- veyors' Institution, 12, Great George Street, Westminster, on Wednesday, the 17th inst., at 7.30 p.m. Papers to be read : (1) " Observations of the Upper Atmosphere at Aberdeen by means of Pilot Balloons," by A. E. M. Geddes, M.A. (2) " The Influence of Weather Conditions upon the Amounts of Nitric Acid and of Nitrous Acid in the Rainfall at Melbourne, Australia," by Valentine G. Anderson. Linnean Society. -The next general meet- ing will be held on Thursday, February 18, 1915, at 5 p.m., when a paper communicated by Mr. Harold Wager, F.R.S., on "The Action of Light upon Chlorophyll." will be read. klRKMICHAEL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.— Kirkmichael, Dumfriesshire, Horticultural So- ciety, which for a number of years past has con- ducted a successful flower show, has been dis- solved. Its effects will be sold and the proceeds devoted to the war relief funds. Proposed Afforestation Scheme in Lanarkshire.— Mr. G. B. Gordon, B.Sc, of the Glasgow and West of Scotland College of Agriculture, is working on a plan for carrying out a proposal to afforest the Camps water catchment area, in the Middle Ward of Lanark- shire. The scheme will probably include some 6,000 acres. A Well-known Printing Firm.- The pub- lishers of the Stock Exchange Year Book desire to say that the statement contained in the 1915 edition of the Year Booh that the firm of Brad- bury, Agnew and Co., Limited, has been dis- solved is incorrect. Bradbury, Agnew and Co., Limited, are the proprietors of Punch, and there is no foundation whatever for the state- ment referred to. War Items. -Private James Sutherland, formerly gardener, St. Mary's, Holm, Orkney, has been wounded while serving with the Army in the field. Our correspondent in France, M. Meu- nissier, sends us a letter written by Lieutenant Digoy and published in the order of the 14th Regiment by the commanding officer. The in- terest of the letter lies not only in the evidence which it provides of the fighting spirit of the French, but also in the fact that the writer is an old student of Kew and a contributor to this journal (see " Corsica" in Gard. Chron., Dec. 7 and 14, 1912). On Dec. 24 two French com- panies, one commanded by Lieutenant Digoy, were in occupation of trenches recently won from the enemy, but separated from one another by about 200 yards still in the occupation of the Germans. In suggesting common action for the purp above Account to be correct. P. RUDOLPH BARR January 22, 1915. FRANK READER y Auditors, 92 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Februaky 13, 1915. were all reappointed : — Mr. Edward Sherwood, treasurer; Messrs. P. R. Barr and Frank Reader, auditors; and Mr. B. Wynne, secretary. The retiring members of the Committee were also elected, and two vacancies filled by the elec- tion of Messrs. R. B. Leech and Jesse Smith. At this stage the scrutineers of the ballot were appointed, and the meeting was adjourned until the declaration of the poll at 4.30. On re-assembling the chairman announced that the sixteen successful candidates were as follows : — Joseph Robert Heath, 348 votes ; Herbert George Ross, 345 ; Violet Bertha Gill, 341 ; John Gordon Ross, 317 : Alfred V. Alderman, 234 ; Lucy E. Heath, 282 ; Andrew C. Ness, 275; Doris E. Donoghue, 238; Alice May Hawkes, 233 ; Leonard Bradburn, 229 ; Laurence Butcher, 224; James Albert Godfrey, 207; Hawkes Amos Charles, 201; Annie Hoare, 201; Dorothy H. Allen, 183; Alfred F. Shucksmith, 158. NORFOLK AND NORWICH HORTICULTURAL. January 15. — The annual meeting of this society was held on the 16th ult., in the Guild- hall, Norwich, under the chairmanship of Mr. F. W. Harmer. The hon. secretary read the annual report, in which the committee stated : — The spring and summer shows were held as usnal, but the Chry- santhemum show was abandoned, since many of the principal exhibitors declined to enter ex- hibits, their garden staffs having been depleted owing to enlistment. The credit balance of £26 5s. 6d. on January 1, 1914, has been increased to a credit balance of £79 5s. 5d., and this is attributable to (1) an increase of subscribers; (2) to the arrangements with regard to the summer show ; and (3) to the fact that the society was not called upon to suffer the small loss which gener- ally occurs on the Chrysanthemum show. The number of members for 1914 was 510. showing an increase of 6, but the amount of the subscrip- tions rose from £236 4s. 6d. to £247 Is. 6d. The spring show was held in St. Andrew's and Blackfriars Halls on April 23 last, and the num- ber of entries exceeded those of the two previous years. Your committee decided to accept the offer of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Associa- tion for a joint show with them at Eaton Park, and the same took place on June 24 and 25. Owing to the continued drought there was a very poor show of Roses, but the other exhibits (and especially the trade exhibits) were admittedly of far finer quality than those shown in the preced- ing years. Fortunately the weather on each day was all that could be desired, and the joint show was a splendid success financially and otherwise. The committee hope that they will be able to proceed this year with the usual three shows. The report and balance sheet were adopted. Mr. J. A. Christie was elected president. The remaining officers were elected or re- elected as follows : — Hon. treasurer, Mr. E. G. Buxton : auditors, Mr. W. H. Back and Mr. Campbell Steward ; hon. secretary, Mr. B. Knyvet Wilson. The dates for the shows for 1915 were agreed to as follows : — Spring show. Thursday April 22 ; Rose show, Thursday. July 1 ; Chrysanthemum show, November 18, 19, and 20. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID. January 21. — Commit tee present: Rev. j. Crombleholme (in the chair), Messrs. R. Ash- worth, J. Bamber, J. J. Bolton, J. C. Cowan, J. Cypher, J. Evans, J. Howes, A. J. Keeling, D. McLeod, C. Parker, W. Shackleton, H. Thorp, Z. A. Ward, and H. Arthur (secretary). R. Ashworth, Esq., Newchurch (gr. Mr. Gilden), staged a group which included Odonto- glossums, Cypripediums, Laelia anceps Hillii, L. Sanderiana, L. Schroderiana, Oncidium cheirophorum, Gomeza Barkeri and Sophronitis grandiflora MaTS. (Silver-gilt Medal.) Wm. Thompson. Esq., Walton Grange (gr. Mr. Howes), was also awarded a Silver-gilt Medal for a group. He showed Odontoglossum amabile punctatissimum. 0. Astrum, O. Lambeauianum rubrum, 0. crispum xanthotes Walton Grange var., Cypripedium Euryades Rex, C. Tracey- anum var. Fair Maid, C. Pyrrha magnifica, C. Charlesworthii Thompson's var., Laelio- Cattleya Waltonensis, and others. Col. J. Rutherford, M.P., Blackburn (gr. Mr. Lupton), was awarded a Silver Medal for a group in which were Cattleyas in variety, in- cluding C. Trianae alba, C. T. The Bridesmaid, Laelio-Cattleya callistoglossa, L.-C. luminosa, Brasso-Cattleya Menda, Cypripedium Antinous, C. Hermes, C. Van Dyke, C. Leeanum giganteum and a batch of Laelia anceps. F. A. Hindley, Esq., Bradford, was awarded a Silver Medal for a group in which were Cypri- pedium insigne Sanderae, C. i. Laura Kimball, C i. Harefield Hall, and C. Thalia Mrs. F. Wei lesley. Messrs. Cypher and Sons, Cheltenham, were awarded a Silver Medal for a group which con- tained Cypripedium Mrs. Goodman, C. Eudova, C. Actaeus Sybil, C. Helen II. Westonbirt var., C. Minos Youngii, C. San Actaeus, La-elia anceps Schroderiana. Calanthes W. M. Murray, C. Bryan, and Laelio-Cattleya Charlesworthii. Messrs. A. J. Keeling and Sons, Bradford, showed Cypripedium Our King, C. Othello, C. Bectonii, C. Vilna, C. Minos Youngii, C. Leeanum Arcadia, 0. Clinkaberryanum, Odonto- glossum crispum, O. triumphossum, Odontioda Charlesworthii, and Cymbidium Gottianum. (Silver Medal.) Mr. W. Shackleton, Bradford, staged an interesting group of Odontioda seedlings. (Silver Medal.) Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, showed Cypripedium nitens Sander's var., C. Troilus Invincible, C. Orion aureum, Cattleya Perci- valliana alba, Laelio-Cattleya Ingramii, and Coelogyne Mooreana. AWARDS OF MERIT. Odontoglossum. Nerissa (0. naevium majus X O. crispum), Cypripedium Mrs. Arkle, C. Euryades var. Hex. and Laelio-Cattleya Walton- ensis.— All shown by Wm. Thompson, Esq. Cypripedium nobilior (Harefield Hall x Beckmanii) and Odontoglossum crispum Sir Trevor. — Both shown by R. Ashworth, Esq. Cypripedium Longford Hall (Harefield Hall X Alportcnse). — From S. Gratrix, Esq. Odontioda Schroderi aurca. — Shown by Mr. W. Shackleton. Cattleya Percivalliana King of the Belgians. — Exhibited bv Mr. J. Evans. STIRLING CHRYSANTHEMUM. January 30. — The annual meeting of the members of the above Society was "held on the 30th ult., Mr. Kinross presiding. The financial statement showed a credit balance of £26 9s. 5d. It was agreed to take no action meantime but await future developments regarding the holding of a show in 1915, as the military still occupy the only suitable venue for the exhibition. The officers for the current year were elected as fol- low : — Hon. president, Captain Stirling of Keir, Dunblane ; president, Mr. Henry Kinross, Park Terrace, Stirling ; vice-presidents, Mr. Jas. Johnston and ex-Bailie Mackintosh, Stirling ; secretary, Mr. Jas. Snedden, 31, Upper Craigs, Stirling ; treasurer, Mr. Wm. Ferguson, Linden Avenue, Stirling. BRIGHTON, HOVE AND SUSSEX HORTICULTURAL. January 21. — The annual meeting of the mem- bers of this society was held on the 21st ult. at Brighton, the chairman, Mr. W. Balchin, pre- siding. The annual report of the committee stated that the two flower shows arranged to be held in August and November were cancelled, but the majority of the lectures were given. With regard to 1915, the committee proposed ar- ranging a series of lectures and monthly ex- hibits as usual, with the exhibition of spring flowers and concert in March. With regard to the two flower shows, much would depend on the state of the country. It was not proposed to hold a summer show, but if circumstances permitted a Chrysanthemum show might be ar- ranged for November, and be held in some large hall, if the Dome and Corn Exchange were not available. The statement of accounts showed a balance in favour of the society of £89 17s. 7d The chairman commented on the favourable nature of the balance-sheet, and with referenca to the arrangements for 1915, suggested that lec- tures and an improved series of monthly com- petitions should be held. He felt certain that the Pavilion rooms and Corn Exchange would not be available tor a very long time, and should they hold a show it would have to be in different buildings. The social meetings would be carried on as usual with o concert in March, and possibly three outings The report and balance-sheet were adopted. Alderman Colman was re-elected president, Mr Balchin. chairman ; Mr. Woollard, vice-chair- man ; Mr. T. Billing, treasurer ; and Mr. A. J. Gaston, secretarv. GARDENING APPOINTMENTS. [Corresjmndents arc requested to write the names of persons and places as legibly as possible. No charge is made for these announce- ments, but if a small contribution is sent, to be placed in our collecting Box for the Gardeners' Orphan Fund, it will be thankfully received, and- an acknowledgment made in these columns.] Mr- Peter Kerr, General Foreman at Maudslie Castle Gardens, Lanarkshire, as Gardener to E. G. Baker Cress well, Esq., Preston Tower, Chathill, Northumberland. Mr. H. Thornton, for the past 6i years Gardener to Sir Algernon Coote. Bart., Bally fin House, Mount- rath. Queens Co., Ireland, as Gardener to Captain B. C. Verxon Wentworth, Wentworth Castle, Barns- ley, Yorkshire. Mr. H. W Dix, aa Gardener to Major Sheppard, Pontlands, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, Es?sex. Mr W Taylor, for last 12 years Gardener to the Hate Mr. C. F. Hartridge, Manor House, Stanmore, as Gardener to T. N. Longman, Esq., Shemdish, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire. Mr. George Johnson, for the past twelve months Gardener to R. Brydon, Esq., The Dene, Seaham Harbour, and previously for nearly two years as Inside Foreman at Newstead Abbey, Nottingham, as Gardener to F. Stobart, Esq., Selabv Hall. Darling- ton. [Thanks for 2s. for R.G.O.F. box.— Eds.] DEBATING SOCIETIES. WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GARDENERS'. - The first meeting of the present session took place on the 27th ult., when a lecture on " Some Recent Re- searches on Plant Nutrition " was delivered by Mr. Alfred Machen. The lecturer referred to the experiments made on the action of bacteria on Peat, and explained how it can be converted into valuable nitrogenous and phosphatic manure. The result of this action gives a black powder which will shortly be introduced to the horticultural and agricultural world by the name of " Humogen." A large number of lantern slides were shown by Mr. Coleby illustrating the lecturer's remarks. WOOLTON HORTICULTURAI The monthly meeting of the above society was held on the 4th inst., Mr. W. D. Skinner occupying the chair. An address on " Late-Flowering Tulips " was delivered by Mr. H. J. Rowlands, of Chilwell Nurseries, Wavertree. The history of these flowers was dealt with, and many interesting details of the Tulip mania and the fabulous prices paid for the flowers were related. Classification was clearly defined, the various types being fully explained, witli the difficulties that had to be overcome by reason of their liability to sport. Cultural details on the raising of these flowers under glass from early in the year on- wards, and a detailed list of the most suitable varieties were given. CARDIFF GARDENERS'.- The usual fortnightly meeting was held on the 2nd inst. Mr. A. Fry presided. The Chairman referred to the appointment of Mr. W. W. Pettigrew (who had taken a great interest in the Asso- ciation in the past) as superintendent of the Manches- ter City Parks. A vote of congratulation to Mr. Petti- grew was passed. The lecturer for the evening was Mr. G. H. Harford, a member of the Bristol Association, his subject being " The Sweet Pea for Exhibition." The lecturer dealt with the cultivation of the Sweet Pea from the sowing of the seeds to the staging of the blooms at the show. EAST ANGLIAN HORTICULTURAL CLUB.— This society was instituted in 1889. and in the first vear the membership was 89. the number in 1914 being 365. The committee's report for 1914 shows a successful year's working. Notwithstanding the war. the monthly "meetings were all held as usual, the attendance averag- ing from 70 to 80. Thirty-one new members were en- rolled during the year. The receipts from all sources amounted to £109" 4s. 3d., and the expenditure to £108 Is. 6d., leaving a small credit balance. The com- mi«»ee has made benevolent grants amounting to £7 2s., including £4 to the local branch of the National Relief Fund. A full syllabus of monthly lectures 'has been arranged for 1915*; also monthly competitions, for which medals and other prizes are offered. February 13, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 93 MARKETS. COVENT GARDEN, February 10. We cannot accept iny responsibility for 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 represent the prices on any particular day, but only the general average 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.— Eds. Cut Flowers, &c: Average Wholesale Prices. s.d. s.d. s.d. s.d. 4 0-50 10-50 Arums (Richardias) per doz. Azalea, white, per doz. bunches.. Camellias, white, per doz. blooms 2 0 — Carnations, per dozen blooms, best American varieties . . 16-26 — smaller, per doz. bunches.. 15 0-1S 0 — Carola (crim- son),extra large — Malmaison.per doz. blooms pink Daffodils, double, . per doz. bun. — single, per doz. bun Eucharis, per doz. Cardenias, per box of 15 and 18 blooms.. Hyacinths, Roman, 12's, per doz. bunches — large white, per doz. spikes 3 0-" 4 0 Lilac, white, per doz. sprays . . — mauve Lilium longifloruni, per doz., long short — lancifolium album, long .. Bhort .. rubrum, per doz., long short .. Uly-of-the-Valley, per dozen bunches : — extra special . . 12 0-15 0 — special . . . . 10 0-12 0 - ordinary . . 8 0-90 Narcissus, Pheasant Eye, per doz. bunches .. 3 6-40 3 6 — 12 0-15 0 4 0-60 4 0-60 3 0-36 5 0-60 7 0-80 4 0-50 5 0-60 3 6-40 4 0-46 2 0-26 2 0-26 19-20 10-16 Orchids, per doz. — Cattleya . . 12 0-15 0 — Cypripedium.. 16-26 — Odontoglossum crispum Pelargoniums, per doz. bunches, double scarlet 10 0-12 0 — White, per doz. bunches . . — — Roses : per dozen blooms, Bride — Kaiserin Au- gusta Victoria — LadyHillingdon — Liberty — Madame A. Chatenay — Melody — My Maryland . . — Niphetos — Prince de Bul- garie . . — Richmond — Sunburst — White Crawford Snowdrop, per doz. bunches Spiraea, white, per doz. bunches.. Tuberoses, on stems, per doz. — short, per doz. Tulips, bronze, per doz. bunches.. — pink „ .. — scarlet „ .. — white „ .. — yellow ,, .. — double orange, per doz. bun. . . pink „ . . red „ .. — Darwin, mauve per doz. bun... 24 C-30 0 Violets,English,per doz. bunches . . — Princess of Wales, doz. bun. Wallflowers, per doz. bun. White Heather, per doz. bunches . . 2 0-30 4 6-80 3 6-60 5 0- S 0 3 0-80 16-26 3 0-40 4 0-80 6 0-90 10-30 8 0-10 0 10 — 0 9- — 7 0-80 8 0-10 0 9 0-10 0 9 0-10 0 8 0-10 0 12 0-15 0 15 0-21 0 12 0-15 0 16-20 3 6-40 2 6-30 9 0-12 0 Anemone de Caen. per doz. bun. . . 9 0-10 0 Anemones, pink, per doz. bun. . . 2 6-30 Marguerites, per doz. bunches . . 3 0-36 Alimosa, per bunch 0 10- 1 0 Narcissus, Paper White, per doz. bunches ... 4 0-46 French Flowers, s.d. s.d. Narcissus, Soleil d'Or . . . . 2 0-26 Ranunculus, scarlet and orange, per bunch . . . . 10-16 Violets, single, per doz. bunches.. 16-20 — Parma, per large bunch . . 3 0-36 Guernsey and Scilly Flowers, Anemone fulgens, per doz. bun. . . Daffodils, per doz. buuches Freesia, per doz. bunches , s.d. 3 0-36 4 6-50 2 0-30 Narcissus, Grand Primo .. — Paper White, per doz. bun... — Soleil d'Or, per doz. bun. Cut Foliage, &c. : Average Wholesale Prices. Adiantum Fern (Maidenhair) best, per doz. bunches Agrostis (Fairy Grass), per doz. bunches Asparagus plumo- sus, long trails, per half-dozen — medium, doz. bunches — Sprengeri Berber is, coloured, per doz. bun.. . — dyed, per doz. bunches Carnation foliage, doz. bunches . Croton foliage, doz. bunches .. Cycas leaves, per doz s. d. s. d. 12 0-18 0 6 0-12 0 2 0-90 s. d. s.d. Daffodil foliage, per doz. bun. . . Eulalia japonica, per bunch Fern, French, per doz. bunches.. Honesty, per doz. bun. Lichen Moss, per doz. boxes . . 10 0-12 0 Moss, gross hunches Myrtle, doz. bnchs. English, small -leaved — French, per doz. buuches. . Pittosporum, per doz. bunches . . Ruscus, per doz. bunches Srailax, per bunch -.1' ii trails 2 6-30 10-16 0 6- 0 S 10 0-12 0 I 0 — 6 0 1 0- 1 3 5 0-60 6 0-90 10-13 Remarks. — White flowers are still scarce ana prices remain high, especially for white Azaleas, Narcissus and Stocks. The shortage and the irregular supplies account for the high prices. Daffodils are more plenti- ful, and the following varieties are arriving in fine condition : — Emperor, Golden Spur, Henry Irving. Sir Watkin and Victoria, and also a few of the double variety Van Zion. Pheasant's Eye Narcissus is plenti- ful, the blooms coming for the most part from Lin- colnshire, and prices are becoming lower. In addi- tion to some excellent red Roses of the variety Rich- mond, there are also some fine blooms of Bridesmaid. Niphetos, White Queen, Liberty. Lady Hillingdon and Sunburst. The prices for all Liliums are lower; Lily- of-the-Valley is obtainable at an average price for the time of year. Tulips are selling freely, and there is a good selection of both double and single varieties. A few bunches of mauve-coloured Darwin Tulips arrived this week, and sold readily at high prices. There is an abundant supply of Snowdrops, and the quantity in- creases daily. Plants in Pots, &c. ! Average Wholesale Prices. s.d. s.d. s.d. s. d. 4 0-60 Aralia Sieboldii, dozen .. Araucaria excelsa, per dozen .. 18 0-21 0 Asparagus plumo- stis nanus, per dozen .. ..10 0-12 0 — Sprengeri .. 6 0-80 Aspidistra, perdoz. green . . . . 18 0-30 0 — variegated . . 30 0-60 0 Azaleas, white and coloured, per dozen . . . . 24 0-36 0 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, 4S's, per dozen . . 10 0-12 0 Cacti, various, per tray of 15's . . 4 0 — tray of ltfs .. 50 - Cinerarias, 48's, per dozen . . . . 10 0-12 0 Cocos Weddeliana, 48's, per doz. . . 18 0-30 0 60's, per doz. 8 0-12 0 Croton, per dozen 18 0-30 6 Cyclamen, 4S's, per doz 9 0-12 0 Daffodils, in pots, per doz. . . 6 0-70 Dracaena, green, per dozen . . 10 0-12 0 Erica, melanthera, 48's, per dozen 12 0-21 0 Ferns, in thumbs, per 100 . . — in small large 60's — in 48's, dozen . . Remarks. pots and and 8 0-12 0 12 0-20 0 per Ferns, choicer sorts, per dozen — in 32's, per doz Ficus repens, 48's, per doz. 60's, perdoz. Geonoma gracilis, 60's, per dozen — larger, each .. Hyacinths, Roman, in 48 pots, per dozen .. Kentia Belmore- ana, per dozen — Forsteriana, 60's, per dozen larger, per doz. Latania borbonica, per dozen . . 12 0-30 0 Lilium lancifolium album, per doz. — — — — rubrum, per dozen . . — — — longiflorum, per dozen . . Lily-of-the- Valley, 48's, per dozen Marguerites, in 48's, per doz., white Pandanus Veitchii, per dozen Phoenix rupicola, each Spiraea, white, 32's per dozen 8 0-12 0 10 0-18 0 4 6-50 3 0-36 6 0-80 2 6-76 8 0-10 0 5 0-80 4 0- S 0 18 0-36 0 18 0-30 0 24 0-30 0 9 0-10 0 36 0-48 0 2 6-21 0 9 0-10 0 10-13 Tulips, in flower, 5 0-00 per dozen ■Business is still very slack. Hyacinths in both white and coloured, are exceptionally fine, these, with Tulips and Daffodils, are most in demand. A few pots of Mignonette and Cinerarias are offered for sale, but there is no demand for these subjects at present. Fruit: Average Wholesale Prices, s.d. s.d. Apples- — English, cook- ing, per bus. . . — Nova Scotia, per brl. .. 14 0-24 0 — United States, per barrel . . 18 0-30 0 — Californian, per box — Oregon, per box Apricots(Cape), per box Bananas, bunch: — Medium — X-medium — Extra .. — Double X — Giant .. — Red, per ton — Jamaica, p. ton £12 — Cobnuts, per lb. .. 0 5 — Cranberries.percase 5 6-66 Grapes : Black Ali- cante, per lb. . . 2 0-26 — Almeria, per barrel of 3 doz. lbs 16 0-21 0 — English, Gros Colraar, per lb. 2 0-26 5 0-70 6 6-80 S 0-10 0 . 7 0 — . 80- . 9 0 — . 10 0 — . 10 0-12 0 £20 — s. d. s. d. Grapes: Continued — — Muscat of Alexandria .. 8 0-12 0 — Canon Hall, per lb 4 6-60 Lychees.perdz. lbs. 18 0 — Mandarins, per ease 3 0-46 Nectarines, Cape, per box . . . . 4 0-60 Nuts, Almonds, per bag . . . . 5S 0-64 0 — Brazils, pr.cwt. 56 0-65 0 — Chestnuts, per bag .. ..12 0-16 0 — Coconuts, per 100 . . . . 16 0-22 0 — Walnuts, dried, per cwt. . . 36 0-72 0 Oranges, per case 9 0-54 0 — Californian seedless .. 15 0-18 0 — Sevilles, per case .. ..12 0-1S 0 Peaches, Cape, per box .. ..6 0-10 0 Pears, Californian, per case .. 14 0-16 0 — Cape, per box 4 0-50 Plums, Cape, per box . . . . 4 0-80 Remarks. — English Apples are only available in small quantities, and Nova Scotion, Apples form the bulk of the supplies. There are also large quantities of Apples ar- riving from. Oregon and California in boxes. The sup- plies of 'Californian Pears are lessening, whilst those from the Cape are increasing, chiefly the varieties Olapp's Favourite and Williams' Bon Chretien. Shipments of fruit from the Cape include Pineapples. Peaches, Nec- tarines, Plums. Grapes and Melons. The supply of Eng- lish Black Alicante and Gros Colmar Grapes continues to be fair for the time of year, but Muscats, including Canon Hall variety, are scarce. E. H. R., Covcnt Gar- den, February 10. Potatos. Dunbara date Kent Lincolns — Up-to-date King Edward Up-to- s. d. s.d. 6 fl- 5 !> 4 6-50 4 6-49 4 0-53 Lincolns— Jtritish Queen .. Evergood.. Blackland Scotch, L'p-to-date King Edward *.d. a.f\ 4 6-50 4 0- 4 6 3 9- l :< t 3- 4 <; 4 S- 4 0 Remarks. — Trade remains about the same. The sup- ply is quite equal to thejiemand. Edward J. Newborn, February 0, 1915. Vegetables Artichokes, Jei usa- leiu, per bushel-. . Asparagus, English, per bundle — Paris Green, per bundle Beans, French, per lb Beetroot, per bushel Brussels Sprouts, per \ bus. Cabbage, per tally Carrots, per cwt. . . Cauliflowers, per doz. Celeriac, per doz. . . Celery, perdoz, bun. Chicory, Belgian, per lb Cucumbers, perdoz. Escballots, per £ sieve .. Garlic, per lb. Globe artichokes, per doz. Herbs, per doz. bunches Horseradish, Eng- lish, per bundle Leeks, per dozen .. Lettuce, Cabbage and Cos, per doz. Average Wholesale Prices^ a.d. s.d. Mushrooms, cultP s.d s.d. 4 0 — vated, per lb. . . 0 10- 1 0 Buttons .. 0"l0- 1 0 3 6-46 0 9-10 6 0 80 2 0-30 3 6-40 4 0-50 8 0-13 0 0 2J-0 3 6 0-10 0 3 0 — 0 6-07 4 0-50 2 0- S 0 2 6 — 16-20 16-60 Mustard and Cress, per dozen pun- nets .. .. 0 10- 1 0 Onions, per cwt., Foreign . . 10 0 — — English .. 10 0-12 0 — Valencia, per case . . . . 10 0-12 0 Parsnips, per cwt, 4 6-56 Peas, per lb. .. 3 6-40 Potatos, new, per lb 0 4-06 Radishes, per doz. bunches . . . . 0 9-10 Rhuuarb, York- shire, per doz. 10-12 Savoys, per tally . . 7 0-10 0 Seakale, per doz. punnets . . 12 0-14 0 Spinach, per bus. . . 6 0 — Tomatos.English, per doz. lbs. . . — — — Xeneriffe, per bundle . ..14 0-18 0 Turnip, per cwt. . . 2 6-36 Turnip tops, p. bag 3 0-36 Vegetable Marrows, WorLhiug, per doz. Watercress, p. doz. 0-12 0 0-10 0 but the Remarks.— Beans and Peas are very scarce, supply of new Potatos 13 larger. Radishes are more plentiful and Vegetable Marrows are arriving. There are fair quantities of Seakaile, and both English and French Asparagus is plentiful. Tomatoa are arriving from Teneriffe in larger quantities. There is a fair supply of Mushrooms. The bulk of the trade is in Potatos. Onions and other roots. Green vegetables are firmer, although quantities and deliveries are uncertain. E. H. R., Covent Garden, February 10. THE WEATHER. THE WEATHER IN JANUARY. There were 13 " rainy days " in January, with a total fall of 2.3 inches, the highest fall of 0.45 inch being on the 11th. During the month the sun shone for 47.1 hours, the brightest day being the 25th, with 6.6 hours of sunshine ; there were 12 sunless days. The barometer varied from 30.276 inches on the 18th to 28.446 inches on the 2nd, the mean for the month being 29.431 inches. The highest maximum temperature of 49.5 deg. was registered on the 15th, and the lowest maximum of 35° on the 26th ; the highest and lowest minima of 38° and 24.5° occurred on the 5th and 10th respectively ; the mean maximum being 39.87° and the mean minimum 31.064°. Thus we have a mean temperature for the month of 35.467°, with an absolute range of 25°, and a mean range of 8.8°. There were 18 days on which the temperature fell below the freezing point, but on no day did the temperature remain continuously below that point. The relative humidity of the air was 89 per cent. On the grass there was a mean temperature of 26.95°, ranging from 36° on the 5th to 18° on the 26th, while the soil thermometer read at 9 a.m. at a depth of 18 inches fell from 34° to 33°. The prevailing winds were north and north-west. James Malloch, Director of Studies St. Andreic's Training College, Eirkton of Mains, near Dundee. THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS. Week ending February 10. A Very Warm and Wet Week. — All the days and nights of the past week were, warm for the time of year. On the first three days the highest temperature in the thermometer screen exceeded 50°, and on the coldest night the exposed thermometer registered only 6° of frost. The ground is at the present time 3° warmer at 2 feet de>ep and 1° warmer at 1 foot deep than is seasonable. Rain fell on all but one day and to the total deptli of nearly !£ inch. During the week six gallons of rainwater came through the bare soil percolation gauge, and 4^ gallons through that on which short grass is growing. The sun shone on an average for 1 hour 12 minutes a day, which is only about half the average daily duration for the time vi year. The wind was very variable in strength, and came almost exclusively from some southerly point of the compass. In the windiest hour the mean velocity reached 20 miles — direction west. The mean amount of moisture in the air at three o'clock in the afternoon exceeded a seasonable quantity for that hour by 3 per cent. E. .1/. CATALOGUES RECEIVED. Covent Garden and St. Pancras. Miscellaneous- Charles Turner. The Royal Nurseries, Slough.— Seed' John Forbes. Ltd., Buccleuch Nurseries, Hawick, Set - land. — Plants and seeds. TT. N. Ellison, 5 and 7, Bull Street. West Bromwuh.— Reeds and bulbs. Sutton & Sons, Rending.— Farm seeds. \i;rin k IT. Meb, 46, Waterloo Bridge, London.- Seeds 1 'BO, T\ru;u ikd Co., 90. Southwark Street, London, S.E.— Agricultural seeds. (Wholesale.) Foreign. i:. 11. KR8LAGB & Son, Haarlrm, Hull ami.- Ilt'i bacemis perennials, Begonias, ('annas ami Gladioli. VlLMORIN-ANDRTBTJx & CO., 4, yuai de la Utegisserie, Paris.— Plants. 94 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 13, 1915. ©bituav\\ R. W. Allen.— The Florists' Exchange re- cords the death, at Hudson, U.S.A., of Mr. R. W. Allen, nurseryman, of Hudson. Mr. Allen was born in England on April 10, 1848, and was the son of Mr. John Allen, who for nearly 70 years was gardener for Lord Fal- mouth. He worked in several establishments, including Syon House Gardens, and the Royal Gardens, Windsor, and in April, 1872, sailed for New York. After serving for some years as a florist's assistant, he entered into business with a partner as a nurseryman. Mr. Allen married his partner's daughter, and later ac- quired the whole of the business. He was also the owner of one of the best orchards in the Columbia County fruit belt at Claverack. Frank Brazier.— It is with _ regret we announce the death, on the 7th inst., of Mr. Frank Brazier, nurseryman. Mr. Brazier special- ised in hardy flowers and Chrysanthemums. He exhibited frequently at the R.H.S. Meetings, and was a well-known exhibitor at the Chrysan- themum shows. He was the raiser of Chrysan- themums Caterham Bronze and Caterham Yellow, and possessed a fine strain of Cam- panulas, which was well known in the trade. A fellow-nurseryman writes : — " He was a hard- working enthusiast, much respected in horti- cultural circles. He was always willing to im- part his knowledge to others, and he possessed the virtue of taking pleasure in the successes of his colleagues." Thomas Gracie.— We regret to announce the death, on January 31, at his home, Linn, Dunscore, of Mr. Thomas Gracie, formerly gar- dener to the late Sir GeoTge G. Walker, Craw- fordton, Dumfriesshire. Mr. Gracie, who be- longed to Kirkcudbrightshire, gained most of his professional experience in that and the adjacent county of Dumfries. He retired from Crawford- ton about five years ago, and has since lived in retirement. Charles O. McTagqart.— The death of Mr. Charles 0. McTaggart, a native of Scot- land, is announced in the Florists' Exchange. He was traveller and store salesman to the firm of W. E. Marshall and Co. Michael Sweeney.— The death of Mr. Michael Sweeney, florist, of Providence, U.S.A., on January 17, is announced in Horticulture. Mr. Sweeney, who was in his 71st year, was born at Leitrim, Ireland, on June 3, 1844. He settled in Providence when a boy, and in 1873 established a florist's business in that town. amfvm to ^^M&^% bmjpondenk Buddleia globosa : A. M. L. Unless it is neces- sary for lack of space, it is preferable not to prune this shrub " in the same way and at the same period as B. variabilis. " The great charm of B. globosa is best seen when it is allowed to grow almost unchecked into a columnar bush. Buddleia variabilis and its varieties grow much stronger, and if left unpruned are liable to become straggly in a few years' time, although we have seen many large bushes, usually growing in rich, fairly heavy soils. As with many other shrubs, the hard winter- pruning of B. variabilis produces vigorous growths, which bear magnificent Tacemes of flower, but if this method were practised with B. globosa very slight increase in 6ize of the flower-heads would be obtained at the expense of the numbers, which, in this species, are so desirable. Should, however, pruning be neces- sary, B. globosa may be treated as you describe for B. variabilis. Evergreen Hedge : A. M. L. Berberis Darwinii would be the most suitable evergreen flower- ing shrub for your purpose. This species may be pruned as hard as circumstances require, and will soon make a fairly dense screen. Although horses and cattle do occasionally nibble the young shoots in early summer, we do not think you need anticipate any serious trouble in this respect. We should prefer to plant at a distance of at least 3ft! from the wall, and to use bushy shrubs about 2ft. high. As you do not mind the hedge being gappy at first, the shrubs may well be planted 3ft. apart in a single row. Bushes of the size men- tioned, and which have been annually trans- planted, would cost about £1 5s. per hundred. You do not mention the nature of the soil. Berberis Darwinii is more than usually adapt- able in this respect, but it will repay for your cultivation, and if, as we suspect, the bank has been in existence for a long period, the ground should at least be dug over before any plant- ing is done. Grass under Trees : T. Voss. — It is a difficult matter to secure good turf under trees. The ground becomes soddened by dripping mois- ture at one time and is dried out in summer through the tree roots extracting the soil water. The trees cause dense shade and their roots appropriate most of the plant food. You should remove the surface soil, which you state contains only moss, and top-dress with fine, open soil containing plenty of well decayed manure. Then either returf or sow grass seeds, selecting such varieties as Poa trivialis, P. nemoralis sempervirens, and Festuca heterophylla. Turf would give the quickest results, but you need to select the sods from pasture in the vicinity. Weedy turf is best dressed with a little nitrogenous manure at in- tervals from now onwards. The manure will cause the grass to grow so freely as in time to crowd out the weeds. Lawn Tennis Court : E. J. G. The dimensions for a single and double tennis couTt are as follows : — feet feet feet A B, B A, double court for three or four players ; s s, s s, single court for two players, a a and B B are the base lines : a B, a b, and s s, s s, side lines ; 0 c and c c, seTviee lines ; h h, half court line ; n n, net. A court for the single game is 27 feet wide, and 78 feet long ; and for the double game, 78 feet long, and 36 feet wide. The posts for supporting the net should be placed 3 feet beyond the sides. The service lines run parallel to the net, and are 21 feet distant from the same. Miller's " Gardeners' Dictionary " : H. Jones. The Abridgement of the Gardeners' Dictionary is of no value. The Orchid Growers' Manual, by B. S. Williams, con- tains much that is still valuable on the cultivation of exotic species, though the notes on seedling raising and on the treatment of cool Orchids need revision to bring them into line with present-day prac- tise. Its market value could be obtained from the secondhand booksellers. Names of Fruits : Barley Wood, Wrington. Dumelow's Seedling (syn. Wellington). — A. E. H. 1, Bymer ; 2, Lord Lennox. Names of Plants : Ourragh. Bryophyllum caly- cinum (see Gardeners' Chronicle Supplemen- tary Illustration, June 29, 1907).— F. Pearce. Billbergia nutans. — Knowsley. Haemanthus albiflos. A South African Amaryllid which grows well in the greenhouse, conservatory, or the dwelling-house if carefully tended. There are several forms of the plant, varying in the shape of the leaves. The roots should be kept dry after the leaves have withered until growth starts again. — P. M. B. Pittosporum undulatum. An Australian shrub considered half-hardy, but the plants will grow out-of- doors in warm localities. Pelargoniums : IF. B. The plants have been killed by the fungus Botrytis, which was un- doubtedly present in the plant from which the cuttings were taken. Rabbits in a Plantation : T. B. The only effec- tive method of preventing rabbits from eating the young forest trees in the plantation would be to enclose it with wire netting 3ft. 5in. high and laid in obliquely for 9in. at the base, and then to destroy the rabbits which re- main in the enclosed area. The only alterna- tive is to smear lightly gas tar on the stems of the trees, but this must be done with care, as if applied too thickly the trees will suffer in health. Spraying : M. B. G. A. Lime-sulphur, applied just before the buds burst, is the best wash for fruit trees as a rule. It can be bought at about Is. per gallon in concentrated form, with instructions as to dilution for winter and summer uses respectively. If of full strength one part to twelve parts of water will serve before the buds burst, and one to forty as a fungicide after the blossom has fallen. The concentrated solution can be made by boiling for an hour in an iron boiler (not a copper one) 48 lbs. of flowers of sulphur and 24 lbs. of fresh quicklime, to make 20 gallons after the waste of boiling. This wash is a fungi- cide, while it also cleanses trees of moss and lichen. The quantity to be used depends upon the sizes of the trees. Every twig should be covered with the specific. If the Apple trees are infested with woolly aphis (" American > blight ") add caustic soda at the rate of 10 lbs. to 50 gallons of water for these trees only. Sweet Pea Border : General Reader. In plant- ing Sweet Peas in a border start at the left- hand corner of the back row, and the back row clumps will be numbers 1 to 22 inclusive. Plant 21 in the front row between, not directly in front of, the back row. These will be 23 to 43 inclusive, again planting from left to Tight. The varieties foT the back row advised are 1 and 2 King Manoel (maroon), 3 and 4 Edith Taylor (rosy cerise), 5 and 6 R. F. Felton (rosy lavender), 7 and 8 Thomas Stevenson (orange-scarlet), 9 and 10 Queen of Norway (bright mauve), 11 and 12 Rosabelle (bright rose), 13 and 14 New Marquis (bright mauve), 15 and 15 Orange Perfection (orange pink), 17 and 18 Lavender George Her- bert (lavender), 19 and 20, Mrs. Cuthbert- son (bicolor, pink and white), 21 and 22 Sun- proof Crimson (crimson). For the front row plant 23 King Manoel, 24 Elfrida Pearson (pink), 25 Edith Tavlor, 26 Marks Tev (deep mauve and blue, bicolor), 27 R. F. Felton, 28 Elfrida PeaTson, 29 Thomas Stevenson, 30 May Campbell (rose flake on cream ground), 31 Queen of Norway, 32 Duplex (pale cream- pink), 33 Rosabelle," 34 Duplex, 35 New Mar- quis, 36 May Campbell, 37 Orange Perfection, 38 Elfrida Pearson, 39 Lavender George Herbert, 40 Marks Tey, 41 Mrs. Cuthbertson, 42 Elfrida Pearson, and 43 Sunproof Crimson. From this it will be seen that you will have clumps of three of one variety — two in the back row and one in the front — divided by another variety in the front row. King Manoel Edith Taylor * * E. PeaTson * * Marks Tey * # * * Plant the front part of the Sweet Pea border with annuals, one of the best being Antir- rhinum, which may be planted in three rows, the row nearest the grass or path being a dwarf variety, and the two back tows the intermediate type. Suitable varieties would be Dwarf Yellow for the front row, Salmon Queen middle row, and Mauve Queen and Coc- cinea mixed in the back row. Sow these at once and prick off the seedlings into cold frames as soon as they are large enough. Violets Diseased : G. F. Your assumption that the soil is infested is probably correct. \ou should have planted your fresh stock on a different site, for spores of the disease fall to the ground and infest the soil. Communications Beceived— P. M. B— Dr. D — N. D.— X. Y. Z.— A. E. H.— G. F— A. B. H— T. H — H. O. P.— S. L. B.— W R D— H F. T— W. G. S — H. F. O— A. H. P— B. D.— Progressive— F. G. B.— W. B. H— E. M— W. T— W. H. D— O. B ^T. B — T. S.— C. H. P.— E. H. W.— G. P.— D. B.— R. Fairer, Lanchow, China (Cable received with thanks). February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 95 THE No. 1J69.— SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 1915. CONTENTS. Apples, the spotting of. . 102 Austrian hybrid and Periittiana Roses .. 101 Avondale forestry station 102 Batley, Mr. G., resigna- tion of ICO Bulb Harden, the— Daffodil prospects Cupressus inacrocarpa . . Edinburgh Royal Bo- tanic Garden Guild . . Glasgow public parks . . Grain and meal statistics 101 Irises, notes on — L. Wattii . . . . 95 McKerchar, Mr. John . . 101 Nursery damaged by shells from German warships . . . . 101 Obituary — Elphick, A. W. .. 106 Reny, W. R 106 96 102 102 100 Potatus, wart disease of 97 "Pour nos amis franeais et beiges " . . . . 103 Pyracantha .. ..101 Rosary, the — Pernetiana Roses 96, 101 Seeds, the longevity of.. 100 Societies— Hort. Club National Chrys. Royal Horticultural .. United Horticultural Ben. and Prov. War items Week's work, the — Flower garden, the . . 99 Fruits under glass . . 98 Hardy fruit garden, the 98 Kitchen garden, the .. 9S Orchid houses, the .. 99 Plants under glass .. 99 100 105 104 105 100 " Winter grime . . 102 ILLUSTRATIONS. Corporal Donner, portrait of 102 Potatos: Abundance, 97 ; Great Scot, 105; The Admiral 101 Pyracantha crenulata. (Coloured Plate.) Scarborough nursery damaged by German warships . . 101 NOTES ON IRISES. I. WATTII, BAKER. TOWARDS the end of 1911 I received from the neighbourhood of Yun- nanfu, in South-Western China, a small packet of Iris seeds that I did not recognise. I was indebted for them to the kindness of Pere Ducloux, and I was the more glad to have them because I felt sure that, if they were seeds of an Iris at all, they were seeds of a species that was either new or, at any rate, not in cultiva- tion. The seeds were small, either pyri- form or almost globular, with dark brown, slightly wrinkled skins, and a small, creamy aril that suggested affinity to such members of the Evansia section as I. Milesii or I. tectorum. The possi- bility did suggest itself that the seeds might be those of I. japonica, which has never yet, to my knowledge, been known to produce sound seeds. The new arrivals were sown at once in pots plunged to the rim in the open, and germinated readily in the spring. The young plants, with their thin, broad leaves, also re- sembled seedlings of the Evansias, and it was with considerable curiosity that, I watched the development of the plants. . It soon became obvious that, whatever they were, they differed widely from any other known Iris, although least perhaps from I. japonica. All through the sum- mer the plants continued to grow until, in August, the stems were nearly 2 feet high. No other Iris produces a stem with- out also producing flowers, and when I went away towards the end of the month I left instructions that I was to be re- called immediately if flowers suddenly appeared. Nothing happened, however, and the leafy stems had to contend against the winter. Most of the leaves on each stem succumbed, but the terminal tuft sur- vived in most cases. However, there were severe late frosts in the spring of 1912, and I was only rewarded by a single flower in May, and that was partly misshapen. About the same time, when it was evi- dent that the stems had now completed their growth and that they had failed to produce flowers owing to the climatic con- ditions, sturdy young shoots began to break through the ground on all sides, and soon made rapid growth. The stems grew to be nearly 3 feet high in some cases, and the leaves were 2j or 3 inches broad and 18 inches long. The follow- ing winter and spring were more favour- able, and in May, 1914, nearly every stem produced a raceme of flowers from its ter- minal tuft of leaves. The flowers closely resemble those of I. japonica, except that they are slightly smaller and of a paler, almost transparent white, tinged, and sometimes mottled, with mauve. Here in the open ground the effect of the branch- ing sprays of delicate flowers was rather marred by the disastrous results of the storms of winter on the lower leaves on each stem. It is, however, easy to imagine that in a cold house or in more sheltered gardens than this, and especially perhaps in the favoured localities in the south- west of England, this Iris would be most pleasing. Even here the tall stems, with their broad green leaves, at once arrest at- tention in mid-winter, when all the sur- rounding Irises have died away completely or nearly to the ground level, and consist for the time being only of tufts of withered brown leaves. For some time I had been aware of the existence among herbarium specimens of a broad-leaved Iris, which I had inclined to assign to I. japonica, though I was doubtful as to the correctness of the deter- mination. It was only recently that, on once more going through the Kew her- barium specimens, I came again to the single specimen, No. 6,337, collected by George Watt on the summit of Khongui Hill, Manipur, during the Government Demarcation Survey of 1881-82. I had formerly identified this specimen with I. Milesii, and when the terminal tuft of leaves with the inflorescence is cut from the top of the stem the plants are cer- tainly very similar. Moreover, I knew from Foster's MSS. that he had received seedlings from Manipur which turned out to be merely I. Milesii. When, however, I looked again at I. Wattii with my un- named Iris in my mind, I saw at once that the two were identical, and that the supposed specimens of I. japonica from Yunnan were in reality also to be re- ferred to I. Wattii. By a curious coinci- dence Dr. A. Henry, who many years ago collected specimens at Mengtz in Yun- nan, happened to be at Kew that day, and I was able to talk over the plants with him. From my account of the be- haviour of the plants in my garden and from the specimens I was able to show him he had no hesitation in agreeing with me that the mystery of I. Wattii had at. last been solved. I am now convinced that the following plants, which have been hitherto referred to I. japonica, are really specimens of I. Wattii. All are in the Kew Herbarium. Ducloux's No. 26. from Yunnan : Henry's Nos. 11.821, 11,821a, and 10,599, from an elevation of 5,000 feet near Mengtz; Hancock's No. 464, 1896, from 6,000 feet above the Red River in the same locality; Forrest's No, 1.898, from 10-11,000 feet on the east flank of the Tali Range ; and a specimen received from Siam by Messrs. Sander and Sons, and sent to Kew in December, 1908. It is now possible to supplement Baker's original description of I. Wattii given on p. 17 of his Handbook of the Irideae by the following details taken from the living plants that I have had under observation here. The rhizome is very slender, and sends out wide-running, stoloniferous growths. The stem, which may be so much as 3 feet high, is very distinctly flattened, above ^ inch broad, and bears a leaf on alternate sides at each node. The internodes become even- tually about 3 inches long. The leaves may be so much as 3 inches broad at their middle, and have a polished upper surface. All the six segments of the flower are ex- tended horizontally, and droop slightly at their extremities. The standards are of a plain mauve-white colour, with a blunt, widely emarginate end. The falls have a short, broad, triangular haft and an oblong blade with a finely-serrate edge, which becomes waved at the extremity. Along the centre of the haft and on to the blade runs a raised orange-yellow ridge, which becomes very prominent on the blade, where it is surrounded by a small patch of orange-yellow. It is flanked on either side along the haft by two or three rows of orange blotches. This crest is very thin, and might easily be in- visible enough to escape notice in a dried specimen, and Baker's expression, " ap- parently not crested," is probably to be explained in this way. The colour of the falls is a pale mauve-white, with some mottlings of a deeper mauve. The stigma is entire ; the filaments are of a pale mauve-white, the anthers white, and the pollen cream. The capsule is about an inch or an inch and a half long, oblong in outline and roughly trigonal in sec- tion, but with the sides somewhat inflated and wrinkled. To the botanist the chief difficulty about I. Wattii is to distinguish it from I. japonica. In the garden the plants are easily separated by their habits of growth. I. japonica produces no stem in the year previous to that in which it flowers, and the foliage is narrower and of thicker substance. In the dried state the efiief difference between the two species is to be found, perhaps, in the spathes. In I. japonica these are small, and the two valves are equal in size. In I. Wattii the outer valve is often twice as long as the blunt inner valve, and tapers to a fine point. The amount of branching in the in- florescence is variable. There may be so manv as nine lateral branches, of which the lowest bears, in its turn, four smaller branches, the next two and the third from the bottom only one. while the upper six are simple. On the other hand, the main stem may be quit" short and -lily pro duce one or two lateral branches The plants appear to bo quite hardy, 96 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 20, 1915. even if the fickle weather of our spring is some- times fatal to the flowers. So far as my ex- perience goes, they are certainly easy to culti- vate in light, rich soil which is not allowed to get too dry. By cross fertilisation among the different plants i was able this year to obtain a few capsules of seed, and it will be interesting to see to what extent later generations of this species adapt themselves to our climatic con- ditions. W. B. Dykes, Charterhouse, Godal- ming. THE BULB GARDEN. DAFFODIL PROSPECTS. The outlook for Daffodils in 1915 is none too ro6y. For one thing, the war must have a very- depressing influence on prices, and then there is the very serious and increasing danger from both insect and fungous pests which cannot be ignored by the wise. Let me take what I may call the immediate personal danger first. It was the proud boast of the Daffodil grower in the days when the flower first began to find favour with the gardening public that the Narcissus family had but one disease and one insect to fear. I regret that this is no longer true. The hot. dry summer of 1911 cast an evil spell over the Daffodil world. From then onwards pests and diseases have become more and more pronounced, and no one who is " back and behind " affairs can view the outlook each returning spring but with anxious ■fore- bodings. Will there be a recrudescence of the several troubles, or will the warnings and pre- cautions which I trust are being taken have in any measurable degree abated them? I often find myself wondering in these epoch- making days if what has happened since August 4 last would ever have come to pass had Treitschke and his books been placed before the British public in such a way that everyone would have become familiar with his teaching of future greatness and world-power for the German race — so as to have understood. Just so with regard to the Daffodil — a note of warning is needed. Enemies are rising up and gaining strength. Forewarned is forearmed. I was very glad to see one of our large Daffcdil firms incorporate in its list last autumn an article from the pen of Mr. Charles E. Shea on the various pests which have come upon us in these latter days. In the insect world there is the large Daffodil fly (Merodon equestris) ; the small Daffodil fly (Eumerus lunulatus) ; the swift moth caterpillar (Hepialus lupulinus) ; the curi- ous transparent mite, whose body seems to be composed of a series of tiny Dunlop tyres joined together ; and the eel- worm (Tylenchus devas- tatrix). In the fungous world there is the " frightful " Fusarium (F._ bulbigenum), "basal rot," "yellow stripe," and, I fear, one or two other diseases of less frequent occur- rence. The halcyon days of one insect and one disease have gone never to return. Again, are there going to be as many Daffodil shows as there are in normal times ? Amongst others those of Devonshire, Glamorganshire, Breconshire, Ipswich and East of England, Huntingdon. Kingsbridge, and in all probability Cornwall will not be held.* One can only hope that one result may be that we may have more flowers at Vincent Square, including novelties from Mr. J. C. and Mr. P. iJ. Williams' col- lections. The Midland, Herefordshire, Lincolnshire, Presteign. County Clare, Fore6t of Dean. R.H.S. of Ireland, Tewkesbury and the R.H.S. intend to hold their shows. I have no news from Kent, Surrey and Sussex. This brings me to another topic of vital im- portance and interest. Has the time come for a moTe decided parting of the ways? In a sense our flower is " neither fish, flesh, fowl, nor good * Since writing the above I hear that the Cornwall show is abandoned. J. J. red herring." It is of the show table and it is of the garden ; but the gardening public is in the dark as to which is which. As the Daffodil is yearly gaining in importance as an inmate of our glasshouses and our rooms in the early months of the year, as grass planting and border decoration are more " gone-in-for " than ever, it is a matter of necessity that those concerned should be informed about the varieties which are most suitable for their purpose. A few weeks ago one "J. R." bemoaned in the pages of a contemporary the want of such a guide. King Alfred, Homespun and Ariadne he instanced as typical of varieties which are said to be good doers by many, but which are not altogether so when tested by experience. I agree with him. They are not garden plants in the same way that Emperor and Barrii conspicuus are. The non- specialist needs lists, and I hope the new system of awards given by the R.H.S. will do some- thing to help matters. In this connection I be- lieve the giant Leedsiis — those magnified Minnie Humes and Mrs. Langtrys — have a great future, and I am looking forward to the time when Messrs. Carter will be selling such a variety as, say, Mrs. Gamp for a few pence each instead of shillings. Show flowers come under a different category. Their end is the exhibition tier, not the greenhouse, the border, or the room. Extra care can be given them, their idiosyncracies studied, and so on. Those who grow them can generally take care of themselves. Very beauti- ful they are in their vases at Vincent Square, Birmingham and elsewhere. One is glad to find that Daffcdil fanciers are an increasing crowd, and new shows are spring- ing up. Alas ! I must write " were," for I fear this year there will be a set-back. Again, "showing" is a very fascinating hobby, par- ticularly when it is joined to seedling raising. In fact, the time will conre when the two will be almost interchangeable terms. What a sign of the times it is to read " seeds freely," " a good pcllen flower," "will not seed, but is a grand pollen parent." So far as may be fore- seen the coming season is likely to be one of low prices, hence it is possible that there may be bar- gains to be picked up which the hybridis;r will be well advised to avail himself of if he can. The. season opens on March 9, which is the first day of the R.H.S. Forced Spring Bulb Show at Vincent Square. Every year this show be- comes more important from a Daffodil point of view. We are able to see which varieties re- spond to gentle forcing, and we live and learn. There is a good liet in the Daffodil Year Booh for 1914. I can recommend them all, with the possible exception of old Barrii conspicuus, which I never call a very good forcer as its perianth so often "flops" under glass when I grow it myself. If will be at the Forced Bulb Show that the observant ones will be able to amplify this list. Hence the importance of a visit for all lovers of the Daffodil. Joseph Jacob. THE ROSARY. PERNETIANA ROSES. I seem to have misunderstood Mr. Pemberton at the annual meeting of the National Rose Society, but I took a very careful note of his speech, and I am sorry if I made an error. I cannot, however, allow his reply to my note to pass unchallenged. Mr. Pemberton says Austrian Yellow and R. lutea are distinct : he grows them both. So do I. but I have found that what is offered as R. lutea (Miller) is simply R. hispida, svn. lutescens. I obtained R. lutea (Miller) from two sources, and in each case it turned out to be the variety — for this Rose seems to be a variety and not a species — now known as R. hispida. This Rose was apparently known first as R. lutea, then as R. lutescens, and. finally, as R. hispida. I may be wrong, but I believe that Austrian Yellow is the typa so far as the Luteae section of Roses is concerned, and that — in these days — when R. lutea is mentioned this yellow Briar is the one referred to. Mr. Pemberton siys that his R. lutea was introduced by Miller in 1798. Professor Crepin gives the date as 1768 and states that this Rose is synonymous with the R. Eglanteria of Linnaeus, 1753; and the R. foetida of Hermann, 1762. Crepin then goes on to say that R. lutea with single flowers has been in cultivation for many cen- turies. He surelv cannot refer in that statement to the R. lutea of Miller introduced in 1768, and it seems more likely that the reference is in- tended for Austrian Yellow introduced in 1596. A very able synoptic table of Crepin's classifica- tion scheme of the genus Rosa has been com- piled by Professor Gerome, of Versailles, but this throws no light on the matter. There seems to have been a lot of trouble with the nomenclature of the yellow Briars, and for more than three centuries R. lutea has been cultivated under different names. The following are the chief synonyms of this species (Austrian Yellow) published by Pronville : — B. Intnl.— Dodon., Pempt., 187: Bauh., Hist., 2, 47. B. lutea simplex. — Bauh., Pin., 483; Hist., Eyst., vera., ord., 6 fol., 5. JR. Eylanteria.— Linn., Sp., 703; Wisel.,. Werth., 263; Roth., Germ., 1, 217-2. 553; De- cand., Fl. fr., 4, 437; Pers., Syn., 2, 47; Mer., Par., 189; Redout., Ros., 1, 69, t. 23. B. lutea.— -Mill., Diet, n., 11; Durol, Harbk., 2. 344: Molni-ii., Moth.. 688: YVii.ld., Sp., 2, 1,064; Lawk., Ros., t. 12; Curt., Bot. Mag., t. 363; Ait., Kew, 3, 258; Gmel., Bad.; Als., 2, 463: Smith, in Rees in 1; Rat., Enum., 157; Pronv. , Somm. B. foetida.— Herm., Diss., 18; Allion., Ped., 2, 138. B. chlorophylla. — Ehr., Beit., 260. B. eerea. — Roessig., Ros.. t. 2. I'ar. B. punicea. — Floribus bicoloiibus. B. sijlvestris austriaca. — Flore puniceo, Hort. Angl., 66. 7?. punicea.— Mill., Diet, n., 12; Durol, Harbk., 3, 347; Roess., Ros., t. 5. B. cmnamomea. — Roth., Germ.. 1. 217, and 2, 554. B. lutea bicolor.—jACCt.. Vind., 1, t. 1; L.uvr., Ros., t. 6; Sims, Bot. Mag., t. 1,077; Ait., Hort. Kew, ed. alt. 3, 258; Smith, in Rees ra 7?. Eglanteria punicea. — Redout, Ros., 1. 71, t- 24. There is no difficulty whatever in distinguish- ing the Austrian Briar from all other yellow species of Roses. Its chief characteristics ara I the brown and shiny bark; the numerous, but solitary, flowers, and their peculiar odour, which no doubt accounts for one of its names, viz.. R. foetida. Persian Yellow is accepted as the double form of R. lutea. Mr. Pemberton states that Soleil d'Or, the off- spring of Persian Yellow, is the first perpetual of the " Pernetiana " class. If Soleil d'Or is Mr. Pemberton's idea of a perpetual Rose, then I no more need be said. The first variety in this I Hybrid Austrian Briar class with anything like \ a perpetual-flowering character is Arthur R. Goodwin. It was sent out nine years later than I Soleil d'Or. Now. as to the decision of the N.R.S. Council with reference to the name of this class of Roses, j I wish Mr. Pemberton would be accurate. Hf says the Council decided early last year to adoDt \ the name " Pernetiana." Will he give me the I date of the meeting at which this decision was come to' No notice ever appeared on any i agenda of business submitted to the members of I Council during 1914 that such a step as this was I proposed. I do not ask for particulars regarding the resolution of a sub-committee that took the libertv of changing the name of this class with- out the sanction and authority of the Council. I know all about that. What I ask Mr. Pem- February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 97 berton to do is to confirm the statement he makes in these columns. George M. Taylor, Mid-Lothian. The National Rose Society for one month re- cognised the name " Pernetiana." On May 5, 1914, some seventy-six years after Persian Yellow came to England and fourteen years after M. Pernet-Ducher's successful creation of a new race, the N.R.S. decided that this race would be in future officially termed " Rosa Per- netiana." A month later this resolution was rescinded. The fact remains that in that now famous nur- sery not far from the shores of the Mediterraneap. M. Pernet-Ducher blended Persian Yellow and Antoine-Ducher and gave us Soleil d'Or in 1900. In those days exhibition Roses were our chief delight, but Soleil d'Or interested a few who were in search of a pure yellow Rose. [t, was not until six years later that English rosarians were amazed with the first appearance nf the now famous Lyon Rose, the offspring of Madame Melanie Soupert and Soleil d'Or. From this remarkable cross we have Arthur R. Goodwin, Beaute de Lyon, Cissie Easlea, one of the most beautiful of this class, a delightful shade of yellow very faintly tinted in the centre with fawn and carmine, large globular blooms with the most fascinating foliage imaginable. The thick green shimmering leaves are abso- lutely mildew proof. It is always in bloom. I cut some really good blooms after Christmas, 1913, but the frost and snow we had a few days later sent it to its well-earned rest. Constance Ward is another success. The Con- stance of the " International," Lyon Rose, Louise C. Breslau, a giant in charming shades of fawn and foliage like Constance Ward. Mrs. George Beckwith, before whom all other Y-3II0W Roses fade, and the now famous Madame E. Herriot. Rayon d'Or, a beautiful yellow, Rodophile Gravereaux, Viscountess Enfield, and Willow- mere, a charming and more refined Lyon. These are all in commerce except Constance Ward and Mrs. George Beckwith, and there are thousands of seedlings on trial. This race is the coming feature in our gardens ; its blood is already shown in some of the successes of our Irish raisers Messrs. Alex. Dickson and Sons have several seedlings of Rayon d'Or Yellow, which will be looked for with interest. Mr. Hugh Dickson has Mrs. Hugh Dickson and Muriel Dickson, but I think Messrs. McGredy have been the most successful in the wonderful colouring thev have infused into Lady Mary Ward, Old Gold. Mrs. J. W. Vanderbilt, and Iona Herdman. Mr. B. R. Cant has given us "Autumn Tints." From Mr. Piper we have a pure yellow sport of A. R. Goodwin, which it resembles in all but colour; this is F. J. Barry. Mr. Paul, of Waltham Cross, sent us the now famous and wonderful Juliet. Others we have had from Continental growers are Deutschland, Entente Cordiale, Gottfried Keller, Johannisfeuer, Louis Barbier, Les Rosatis, Madame Ruan, Madame John Crouch, Parkfeuer, Soleil d'Angers, Sonnenlicht, and one named after the brave Marie Adelaide, Grand Duchesse of Luxembourg. Some have been classed with the Hybrid Teas, others under " Austrian Hybrid Briars," but we have now come to the parting of the ways. The name Austrian must go, Pernetian must go, be- cause " Pernetiana " has come to stay. The majority of English rosarians wish to honour the famous French rosarian, and only a single letter is required. Our N.R.S. have it in hand, and wa shall have it satisfactorily ar- ranged in a graceful way, showing our apprecia- tion of the Entente Cordiale existing between this country and France, a token of the happy times in store for us and our Allies when we have successfully laid Prussian militarism low for ever. Evelyn E. Farmer. WART DISEASEJJF POTATOS. This disease, which is so serious in many small gardens and allotmeuts in the middle-west and north-west of England, was known on the Con- tinent before it was recognised in England. In the introduction to the Bulletin on the subject issued from the Harper Adams Agricultural Col- lege in 1910 the following statement is made : " This disease appears to have been known for some years in many parts of the county (Salop), as specimens had been sent to the college from the neighbourhood of Woore in 1901. They were examined in 1903, and found to be affected with the fungus described by Professor Potter in the Journal of the Board of Agriculture (1S02). In 1905 tubers similarly attacked were sent from Pickstock, where it was reported to have existed for some time." It i6 interesting to note that in the Jour- nal of Horticulture of December 15, 1898. the black wart disease is undoubtedly figured, and a description of it given by Mr. G. Abbey, who wrote as follows : " The specimen Potato contained several protuberances on various parts of the skill, some beginning and others more ad- vanced in development. No trace of animal life was discovered in the cracks of the excrescences, into his garden. I said that could soon be proved. Had he any disease on his estate gar- den ? He said, "No." He notified the Board of Agriculture. A searching inquiry was insti- tuted, and it was found he had used manure to top-dress his Roses from a farm which had wart disease at one time in its Potatos ! A remarkable instance of how some land was infected is quoted in the Bulletin already re- ferred to and is well worth repeating. "An instance of infection by throwing the water in which pig Potatos from an infected gar- den were washed on a piece of clean land. — This ground was covered with shrubs of large size which the tenant was allowed to clear off in order to obtain a piece of uninfected land for Potatcs. It was planted with Up to Dates, and when lifted the crop was full of warts. This was rather puzzling at first as the bushes had been planted fully twenty years, but enquiries elicited the information that it was the custom to throw among the bushes washings from the pig Potatos grown on the infected part of the garden." The Board of Agriculture has issued two im- portant leaflets on this disease, and copies can, of course, be had free by writing to Whitehall for them. The most interesting development in con- nection with the subject hes been the discovery of Fig. 26. — potato " abundance.' which were black and moist, the warts being brown and scabbed." Mr. Abbey believed it was due to a very bad attack of Oospora scabies, though he admits that he did not think it could account for all the trouble he found in the tubers. In 1909 the life-history and cytology of the parasite was worked out by Prcfessor John Ptr- cival, who placed it in the genus Synchitrium, and it is now universally known as Synchitriuni eudobioticum, Percival. It has many common synonyms — black wart, black scab, Cauliflower disease and Potato canker, by which it is known in Canada. Left to itself the disease would net travel fast, but the spores may be carried in innumerable ways and fresh areas thus infected. It has been proved that spores are can n 1 from one garden to another on tools and boct.', by fowls and pigs straying from one allotment to another, by manure and of course by the tubers used as sets. I had an interesting ex- perience last season, which shows how important it is for everyone to be on his gusrd. A well known gentleman in Scotland had obtained two lots of seed Potatos of the Factor variety, one for his private garden and one for an estate in which he is interested. When August came he found wart disease among the Potatos in his private garden. He wrote to me asking if I thought it could be the seed which had brought the trouble a series of varieties immune to the disease. I believe the first information regarding these resistant varieties was obtained in 1908 by Mr. G. T. Malthouse, who is Lecturer in Botany at the Harper Adams College, and who has been mainly responsible for the work done there on wart disease and for the publicaticns issued. The first variety found to be immune in many gardens in North Shropshire was Snow- drop, and at the end of the season (1908) Lang- worthy was also found not to be affected. It is interesting to state two things which have an important bearing on the question. Two years ago Snowdrop was found to have broken down — i.e., it was found to take the disease. When specimens were submitted to Mr. Malt- house he found they were yellow-flcshcd. That at once started further enquiries, with the result that many of the stocks of Snowdrop being sold as such were found to be impure : though out wardly the same they were mixed with a pale- yellow fleshed form which was not resistant to wart disease, while the true white Hot-lied Snow drop was and is quite resistant. The Board of Agriculture has acted wisely in withdrawing Snowdrop from its list of permitted varieties until traders can work up. pure storks. The other incident I refer to has to do with Lang- worthy. On the recommendation and by per- mission of the Board of Agriculture Lang 98 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 20, 1915. worthy was planted on a number of infected allotments in the West Riding of Yorkshire. They all succumbed. The Board concluded that something was wrong and they asked Professor Seton to obtain some true Langworthies next season and have them planted on the same allot- ments. He did so, and the result rehabilitated the Board and the Potato. Splendid crops were obtained without a trace of disease. The ex- planation, of course, ds that the seed supplied to the allotment holders the year before had not been true to name. Some hundreds of varieties have been tested by the Harper-Adams College authorities on badly-infected land in Shropshire, and. the only varieties which the Board of Agriculture will allow to be planted in infected areas in 1915 are : — 1. Milecross Early (Dickson), an early round variety. 2. Conquest (Findlay), a good round second early, cooks well when Taised in August, rather subject to ordinary Potato disease. 3. Jeanie Deans (Findlay), a fine thick, pebble- shaped variety, though not generally cultivated. 4. Favourite (Dobbie), a second early round of excellent quality ; white flower. 5. Abundance (Sutton) (see fig. 26), a well- known early main crop variety ; very largely grown ; white f! ower. 6. Supreme (Sutton), a fine pebble-shaped second early ; white flower. • 7. Great Scot (McAlister) (see fig. 29), a second early round ; heavy cropper. 8. Schoolmaster, an old "round variety, not much grown now. 9. Crofter (Dobbie), an elongated Tound, simi- lar to Abundance, but later ; white flower. 10. Culdee6 Castle, a main crop, flattish round variety ; white flower. 11. Provo6t (Dobbie), a main crop, round; white flower. 12. The Admiral (Dobbie) (see fig. 28), main- crop, oval-shaped tubers, heavy cropper ; white flower. 13. Irish Queen. 14. St. Malo Kidney. 15. King George V. (Butler), main crop, round, good cropper ; white flower. 16. Laird (Davie), a good deep oval main crop. 17. Flourball (Sutton), main crop, round. 18. Golden Wonder (Brown), equal in quality to Langworthy, which it resembles in form, but has a brown netted skin. 19. Peacemaker (Scarlett), similar to Gold-en Wonder. 20. Langworthy (Niven), a late Irdney of superb quality ; flower pale mauve tipped white. 21. What's Wanted (Niven), similar to Lang- worthy. 22. Burnhouse Beauty (Dobbie), a recently in- troduced main crop round variety. 23. The Lochar (Farish). A further list is given, but permission to grow will only be given when stocks of them are ob- tained from absolutely trustworthy sources as the stocks are limited. It is a remarkable fact that nearly all the re- sistant varieties are white-flowered. In time no doubt science will be able to discover the secret of resistance. The immense importance of this disease prob- lem can be measured by the fact that the existence of it in Great Britain is the reason given for the United States, Canadian, Australian and other markets now being entirely closed to British Potatos. IF. CutJibcrtson. The Week's Work. Potatos.— According to the returns issued by the Board of Agriculture, the imports of Potatos into this country for the week ending Wednes- day, February 3, amounted to 105 tons, com- pared with 643 tons in the corresponding week of 1914. The total imports for January amounted to 425 tons, compared with 2,868 tons in the same month in 1914 and 44,153 tons in 1913. The ex- ports of Potatos are much smaller than usual. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunn, Foreman, Royal Gardens, Windsor. Shallots and Garlic— Shallots should be planted in light sandy soil as early in February as the condition of the soil permits. Plant in drills at 1 foot apart, and press the bulbs well into the soil, so that when the work is finished the crowns are just below the surface of the bed. Garlic may be planted now, but the bulbs should be further apart in the rows than shallots. Jerusalem Artichokes.— The tubers should be lifted at once and stored in a cool place until required for use ; and, as the work of lifting proceeds, select a sufficient number of medium-sized tubers for re-planting, which may be done now. Any out-of-the-way part of the garden is suitable for this crop, provided the soil is in good condition. Plant in rows at 4 feet apart, allowing 18 inches between the sets in the rows. Parsley.— Pits in which winter Parsley is grown should be ventilated freely, removing the lights entirely in mild weather, replacing them as a protection from frost or snow. If the supply of leaves is likely to be short during the spring, make a sowing in boxes and germinate the seeds in a temperature of 50°. Afterwards remove the boxes to cooler quarters, and, when the young plants are large enough, transplant them carefully in a box frame on a sheltered border. Parsley in the open should be divested of all decaying foliage, and the ground stirred lightly with the Dutch hoe. Celery.— The first sowing of Celery should be made in order to produce a supply of heads in the early autumn. Sow the seeds thinly and cover them lightly with fine, sifted soil. When the plants are large enough, transplant them carefully in a cold frame. French Beans.— Make sowings of French Beans in 8-inch pots from time to time in order to maintain a continual supply of pods through- out the spring. The soil may consist of two- thirds turfy loam and one-third manure from a spent Mushroom bed; it should be made mode- rately firm before sowing, and 7 or 8 seeds may be placed in each pot. Do not entirely fill the pots with soil, but leave room for future top- dressings. Plants which were raised in January should be top-dressed, working the material amongst the stems and making it firm. Place a few twigs in the pots for supporting the shoots. The night temperature should be 60°. Syringe the foliage frequently with clear soft water to keep red spider in check. Water the roots fre- quently with weak liquid manure from the farm- yard. Potatos in Pits. -Pits in which Potatos are growing should be well ventilated to pre- vent the top growth from becoming drawn. When the plants are a few inches high earth them up, but previous to doing this "examine/ the bed to see if water is needed at the roots. Potatos growing in pots also require attention. They need plenty of fresh air and a liberal sup- ply of water at the roots. Top-dress them .with tine soil so that the young tubers may not be exposed to the light. A temperature of 50° at night is suitable. Early Potatos Out -of -Doors.— As soou rs the soil is sufficiently dry Potatos may. be planted in a warm, south border. The tubers, having been started in shallow boxes, should be handled carefully or the shoots may be broken. It is not a good practice to force the tubers into growth by placing them in warmth ; they should be started in a cool shed, so that growth may be of a sturdy nature and not likely to suffer from coming in contact with the soil. May Queen is one of the best varieties for present sowing. Large Onions.— If seeds were sown early in the present year with a view to obtaining extra large bulbs, the plants should be ready for transplanting into boxes of rich soil with a bottom layer of decayed manure after it lias ueen passed through a fine sieve. Make the soil firm and allow a distance of 3 inches be- tween the plants, so that when the time for planting arrives they may be lifted with a good quantity of soil. A" temperature of 55° is suit- able, and the plants should be grown near to the roof-glass. When the seedlings are re- established in the new 6oil increase the amount of ventilation gradually preparatory to growing the plants in a cold pit, to be finally hardened for planting in well-prepared ground about the middle of April. THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire). Wall Trees. — Push forward the work of pruning, nailing and dressing of all kinds of fruit trees at every favourable opportunity, as the buds will soon be in a forward condition. Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots, and other trees on south walls should be attended to first. The pruning of vines growing on walls or pergolas should be completed as soon as possible, for if done later the cut surfaces may bleed. Fruit trees of all kinds may yet be planted, but it is desirable to bring this work to a close as soon as possible. Nuts.— Unless the trees are in a forward con- dition and there is a danger of rubbing off the flower-buds, nut bushes may yet be pruned. In thinning the shoots aim at keeping the bushes within bounds, and the branches from becoming crowded. Where Filberts are grown by them- selves, it may become necessary, to ensure a good crop of nuts, to place branches with catkins of the common Woodnut amongst the bushes, for Filbert bushes are usually deficient in catkins, and pollen appears to be scarcer than usual this season. This should be done on a morning when it promises well for a fine day, and should be repeated at intervals of a few days whilst the female flowers continue to open. It is a good plan to plant some of the commoner kinds of nuts at intervals among the choice varieties, as then there will be little fear of the crop not- setting. Clear away all suckers from around the bushes, and apply a dressing of manure to any trees that appear to be in a sickly condition. Bush and Standard TREES.-Complete the pruning of these trees, remembering that one of the principal objects in pruning is to allow space between the branches for the sun and air to enter freely. Select and lay aside cuttings of Apples or Pears for use as grafts later on, partially burying them in a cool, moist place in the mean- time. When the work of pruning is finished, dig and dress the ground. Gooseberries and Currants.— Bush fruits that have recently been planted, and especially those growing in shallow or light soils, should be mulched at once, as drying winds and sunny weather may be expected. Where the soil between the bushes was turned up during the late autumn and early winter a good plan is to stir the surface after a dry day or two with a coarse rake ; the object of this is to destroy seedling weeds, and disturb the seeds of weeds, that may be germinating. Raking will also level the soil, which if left in a rough state would prevent the hoe from performing its work properly throughout the season. At this time of the year, on the promise of a shower, bush fruits may be dusted liberally with soot, scattering it broad- cast among them. The soot will not only deter birds from destroying the buds, but will act also as a stimulant to the roots. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Qucensferry, N.B. Strawberries.— As soon as the earlier plants have set their fruits the trusses should be thinned with a pair of Grape scissors. Raise the temperature to 70°. It is of the utmost im- portance to admit air on all favourable occa- sions, not only to promote a healthy growth, but more especially to develop the best flavour in the oerries. Continue to syringe the February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. {plants both morning and afternoon, but do not entourage an excess of moisture. Water the roots with care, and feed them with liquid manure until the berries change colour, when the use of this stimulant must be discontinued. As the fruits approach the ripening stage, re- move the plants to a house where there is plenty of light and air. Successional plants should be introduced into heat, and treated as already ■advised. Orchard House.— All fruit trees intended to have at least shelter from extremely cold weather should now be housed. Their growth must not be hastened, the protection being simply to ensure safety to the blossoms at the •critical stage. Therefore all ventilators should be kept open night and day. Previous to placing the trees under glass examine the drain- age, and if there are signs of worms in the soil, water it with lime wrater. Let each tree have plenty of space, in order that the work of pollinating the blossoms and thinning the fruits may be performed without damaging the growths. Water the soil sparingly until the roots are active ; if the pots are plunged ■very little water will be required for some weeks to come. Figs.— The fruits on the earlier trees are swelling freely, and superfluous and ill-shaped ■specimens should 'be removed. Timely attention to this detail will, in many cases, prevent the dropping of fruits prematurely. Continue to pinch the shoots as advised in a former calendar, ■and guard against overcrowding. As the fruits swell the roots may be fed liberally with liquid manure, but not to the extent of encouraging gross growth. Vinery.— Muscat vines that were started in December to furnish an early supply of Grapes are advanced in growth sufficiently for it to be determined which shoots should be retained, selecting those giving promise of producing good bunches of fruit. The fruiting shoots should be stopped at two or three leaves "beyond the bunch, and all sublaterals oelow the bunch rubbed off. Unless the leaves are touching the glass, the shoots need not be tied down until the berries have set. As it is unwise to water the roots when the vines are in flower, a sufficient quantity of moisture should be given to carry them over that period. As the vines approach the flowering stage, raise the night temperature to 65°, allowing it to rise from 75° to 80° during the dav with sun-heat before admitting air. Although air should be admitted on all favourable occasions, a constant watch must be kept to prevent cold draughts or sudden falls in the temperature. As the buds come into flower maintain a buoyant and drier atmosphere. Should the surface of the border be dry sprinkle it with water early in the day. Other conditions being favourable this will in no way affect the setting of the berries : on the contrary, thev will be beneficial. Ten the rods and trellises two or three times each day to distribute the pollen, and about mid-day pass a rabbit's tail gently over the bunches. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. Briscoe, Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Mexican Laelias. Laelia albida, L. autumnalis, L. Gouldiana, the rare L. Eyer- raaniana, and L. anceps, together with its numerous fine varieties (both white and coloured), have been making a bright dis- play of flowers for several weeks past. These Orchids should be grown more ex- tensively, for they have graceful, arching spikes of beautiful flowers. Directly the spikes are cut keep the plants moderately dry at the roots until the latter become active again, and let them be grown in plenty of light. In some establish- ments a separate house or division is set apart for Laelias, and this practice is a sound one, but at the same time it is not an absolute necessity. Most growers are compelled by circumstances to cultivate Laelias with other plants, and usually the lighter end of the Cattleya house is chosen for them, while in many places, and even where Orchids are not a speciality, they are grown in the plant stove, often with toler- ably good results. At this season some of the plants develop roots from the base of the last made pseudo-bulb; others will reach this stage in a few weeks' time. When roots appear repotting or top-dressing may be done, using a mixture of Osmunda fibre, good quality peat, Al fibre, and Sphagnum-moss in equal parts. Pots or pans without side-holes are the best receptacles, and they should be filled one-third their depth with material for drainage. Plants that have out- grown their receptacles should be attended to with a view to removing the old soil, dead roots and the useless back pseudo-bulbs; three of the stems behind each lead or growing point being sufficient. To obtain large specimen plants ar- range several growths in the same receptacle, letting the leads be distributed equally over the surface, and taking care that one or two point towards the centre of the pot. If the stock of any particular variety is scarce, the portions may be potted separately, and in such cases the back pseudo-bulbs should be retained for propagating purposes. Another good plan is to cut away the portions of the plants that have exceeded the rim of the pot, which would include the leading pseudo-bulb, with perhaps one or two others attached. When this method is adopted, the old or back pseudo-bulbs are not disturbed for at least twelve months, and need nothing beyond a little top-dressing if the soil is sour or decayed. The parts removed should be potted as advised, and they usually become more vigorous than those with a string of old pseudo-bulbs behind, a characteristic feature of bygone days. The soil should be made firm, but not hard, and water should be afforded sparingly for a few weeks afterwards, for they need only sufficient moisture to prevent the pseudo-bulbs from shrink- ing. When new growth appears, let the plants have plenty of sunlight, but guard against scorching the foliage. Spray the plants over- head on fine days, and open the top ventilators an inch or so whenever the weather is favour- able for admitting air. As the season advances the roots will need more water, and the sur- roundings must be kept moist by syringing occasionally between the pots. It is not advis- able to hurry the plants into growth at this season, but every encouragement must be afforded them to induce the roots to become re- established. Some growers prefer to defer the work of repotting until April or May, but my practice is to repot the plants as soon as possible after they have flowered. THE FLOWER GARDEN. Bv A. J. Cobb, Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., DufTryn, South Wales. Hardy Flower Border.— Examine the plants which were set out early in autumn, and where the frost has loosened any in the soil settle them by carefully treading, and fork the surface lightly, leaving it tidy. Anemone japonica, Platycodon, Aconitum, Oriental Poppies, Eryn- gium and Delphinium resent division and disturb- ance at any time, but if the replanting of other species is not completed in the autumn it may be safely undertaken between now and the end of March. Should it be desirable to move any of those named the work must be done with extra care, the soil dug deeply and enriched with manure. In very heavy soils spring planting is to be recommended, especially for other than such robust growers as Helianthus, Helenium, Solidago, Aster and Rudbeckia. In the case of new or choice varieties it is our practice to plant temporarily in good, light soil during the winter, with a glazed light over them to ward off the rain, and plant them permanently in March. Many hardy plants cannot withstand the effects of excessive wet and cold until they are well rooted. When dividing and transplanting clumps choose strong, outer portions, and dis- card those in the centre. Much thought should be given to the planting scheme of all borders, and especially to those filled with plants for blooming over a long period. Dahlias in several types are useful to maintain a continuous dis- play, and positions for these and such flowers as Sweet Peas, Liliums, Marguerites, and many half-hardy annuals should be marked with pre- paratory labels. Where gardens are large enough to permit it, the most satisfactory scheme is to have a border devoted to early-flowering perennials, such as Oriental Poppies, Lilium candidum, German Irises,. Paeonies, Pyrethrums and Phlox suffruticosa, to be followed by Salvias, Marguerites, Heliotropes, Pentstemons, Galtonias, Gladioli, and another border planted with hardy herbaceous and other plants which commence blooming about the middle of July. The young growths of many plants, such as Delphiniums, Phloxes, Gypsophilas and Pyre- thrums, are often injured by slugs; a small quantity of crushed coke-breeze placed around each plant will act as a deterrent. Antirrhinum.— Sow seed in gentle heat to provide plants for setting in the beds and borders in May. Mix plenty of sand with the soil, and sow the seed thinly, as seedling Antirrhinums are liable to damp off. A little powdered char- coal sprinkled over the seed-bed will help to prevent this trouble. Transplant the seedlings into boxes, and later into frames, such as those from which Violets have been cleared. Keep the frames closed, and shade the plants from direct sunshine, gradually hardening as growth proceeds. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan, Gardener to Lady Nunburnholme, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Caladium.— These beautiful-leaved plants are valuable for the decoration of the stove house, and for general purposes of furnish- ing during the summer months. C. argyrites, G. Baroness Schroder, and C. minus erubescens are excellent dwarf varieties for decorative purposes. The plants may be started in shallow pans filled with sand and leaf- mould, and later, when the growths are 3 or 4 inches long, potted singly in small pots in a mixture of fibrous loam, leaf-mould and sand. In bright weather it may be necessary to shade the plants until they are re-established, but afterwards they should be accustomed gradually to bright sunlight. Caladiums should be grown in a moist atmosphere, and a temperature of 60° to 65°, and need plenty of water at the roots during the summer. Ixora.— The present is a suitable time to strike cuttings of Ixoras, as plants rooted now will have a long season of growth. They should never be allowed to stop growing, for ■ once they receive a check they never seem to grow freely afterwards. This especially applies to I. coccinea, which for colour, durability and general appearance during the winter months is equalled by few other plants. Stout shoots with one, two or three joints make the best cuttings, and strike freely in a Melon or Cucumber house, heated to a temperature of 70° to 80°, with or without bottom heat. Use small pots and an open compost. When the cuttings are well rooted shift them into 4-inch pots filled with rich, fibrous peat, mixed with loam and sand. Plants of last season with plenty of roots should be potted into 7 or 8-inch pots, and two-year specimens into 10-inch pots. The soil should consist of a mixture of good peat and loam incorporated with sand. The night temperature should be 65° to 70°. Promote plenty of moisture in the atmosphere by syring- ing freely. Keep the plants free from insect pests. Ferns.— The work of potting Ferns should be proceeded with before any or much top growth develops ; this applies especially to young plants grown in pots for decorative purposes. The potting or top-dressing of large, specimen Ferns may be deferred for a little longer period, but in the meantime the plants may be prepared for the operation by cleansing them of insect pests. Use clean pots and plenty of crocks. The soil may consist of good peat, not too hard in texture, light, sandy loam and a liberal sprink- ling of sand. Water the plants moderately, and keep the atmosphere close and rather warm to encourage the roots to grow before much top- growth develops. Stocks.— Plants which were potted in the autumn need careful attention at this stage. Ventilate the house or frame carefully, and re- move decaying leaves. Feed the roots occasion- ally with weak liquid-manure. Pot on succes- sional plants which have been wintered in small pots. 100 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 20, 1915. EDITORIAL NOTICE. ADVEBTISBMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER, 41. ■Wellington Street, Covent Garden, W.C- Editors and Publisher. — Our Correspondents would obviate delay in obtaining answers to their communications, and save us much time and trouble, if they would kindly observe the notice printed weekly to the effect that all letters relat- ing 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 Editors. The two departments, Publishing and Editorial, are distinct, and much unnecessary de- lay and confusion arise when letters are mis- directed. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22— Surveyors' Institution meet. Lecture on " The Re- port of the Land Enquiry Committee on Rating." Average Mean Temperature for the ensuing week deduced from observations during the last Fifty Years at Greenwich, 39.9. Actual Temperatures : — London, February 17 (6 p.m.) : 45°. Gardeners' Chronicle Office, 41, Wellington Street. Covent Garden, London ; Thursday, February 18 (10 a.m.) : Bar. 29.4 ; Temp. 50°. Weather- Stormy. SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY— Rose Trees, Perennials, Shrubs, Bulbs, etc.. at Stevens' Rooms, 38, King Street, Covent Garden. MONDAY— Hardy Bulbs and Herbaceous Plants, Roses and Fruit Trees, at 12, by Protheroe & Morris. 67 and 68, Cheapside, E.C. WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, AND FRIDAY— Nursery Stock, at Kingsthorpe Nurseries, North- ampton, by Protheroe & Morris, at 11. WEDNESDAY— Herbaceous Plants and Bulbs, at 12 ; Fruit Trees, Azaleas, etc., at 1, by Protheroe and Morris. THURSDAY— Roses, by Protheroe and Morris, at 1. FRIDAY— Hardy Bulbs and Herbaceous Plants, at 12 ; Roses and Fruit Trees, at 1 ; by Protheroe and Morris. Nursery Stock at Burnt Ash Hill Nursery, Lee, by Protheroe & Morris, at 11. The longevity of seeds — The Longevity a subject of perennial of Seeds. interest and great prac- tical importance — is discussed in a communication made by Dr. Shull to the Plant World* Dr. Shull's communication deals -with the longevity of submerged seeds, and re- counts the results of experiments made at Cold Spring Harbour, New York. The experiments were suggested by the obser- vation that owing to the bursting of a dam and the consequent draining of a pond a luxuriant vegetation sprang up within a few months on the dried and drained floor of the pond. It was known that the pond had not been drained for at least 70 years. Yet from out of the dried mud there arose in the spring some 140 species of flowering plants, many mosses, and at least one liverwort. Of the flowering plants a few were perennials, and of these an Aster and a Solidago flowered in the summer, and must, therefore, have grown from pieces of root -stock. In order to obtain informa- tion as to the provenance of the seeds, Dr. Shull started an experiment on December 13, 1905, wherein six lots of seed of each of 22 species of plants were placed in soil in large glass jars. The jars containing the soil were filled with water, were stored in a basement room, and water was added from time to time in order to make good the loss by evaporation. On July, 1, 1907, 18i months after the starting of the * Vol. XVII., No. 11, November, 1911. experiment, one of the jars was opened and the germination of the seeds which it con- tained was tested, with the result that in due course seedlings appeared of the fol- lowing plants: — Cyperus spp., Juncus tenuis, Muehlenbergia diffusa, Plantago Rugelii, Sium cicutaefolium, Verbena urticifolia. A second jar was investi- gated two years and five months after the beginning of the experiment, and of the seeds which it contained the following germinated : — Chenopodium album. Lappa minor, Muehlenbergia diffusa, Plantago Rugelii, Sium cicutaefolium, Verbena urticifolia. After four and a quarter years seeds of 11 species were found to be viable, and in the last test, made seven years from the starting of the experiment, seedlings of Sium cicutaefolium, Juncus bufonius, and J. tenuis were obtained. Dr. Shull concludes from these experi- ments that the plants which made their ap- pearance in the soil of the drained pond were derived from seeds which had found their way into the pond by natural agen- cies, had accumulated there, and had re- mained inert but unharmed in spite of a long submersion. Another problem remains which Dr. Shull refers to but does not attempt to dis- cuss. That problem is the means whereby the submerged seed is protected against premature and fatal germination. At first sight the moistness of the soil in which the seeds were lying would appear to be all against their dormancy — for, as everyone knows, a supply of water is an in- centive to germination. The explanation of the dormancy of such submerged seeds appears to us to be provided by the re- markable experiments of Mr. Kidd, de- scribed by the author in these columns (Gardeners' Chronicle, Vol. LV., p. 186. and Vol. LVL, p. 34). Mr. Kidd has shown that the presence of some 10 to 20 per cent, of carbon- dioxide in the atmosphere surrounding the seeds provokes a persistent latency. The seeds remain capable of germination, but do not germinate until they are restored to an atmosphere containing the normal low percentage of carbon-dioxide. We suggest that in submerged soil a similar condition obtains, that the water sur- rounding the seeds is saturated with carbon-dioxide and deficient in, if not de- pleted of, oxygen, and that, therefore, the seeds remain in a state of enforced rest — of suspended animation — so long as these conditions are maintained. How long life remains in such seeds has yet to be deter- mined. An interesting contribution to the general question of the longevity of seeds is made by Sir Herbert Maxwell in a letter to Nature (January 21, 1915). Sir Herbert recounts that his father, in 1862, drained Dowalton Loch, AVigtonshire. Among the plants which have taken possession of the drained ground, Sir Herbert observed six years ago Pyrola minor in wide breadths. This plant is not known to Sir Herbert Maxwell as a present inhabitant of the county. Whence have the minute seeds come, and ltow have they found their way through the closely cultivated land to the site of Dowalton Loch? Sir Herbert Max- well is such a keen observer and accom-j plished naturalist that we make with diffi- dence the suggestion that ants will prova to have been the transporting agents That they carry minute seeds in consider able quantities over wide distances known, and we believe that exact detail: of their seed-carrying operations wer given some years ago by Professor Weiss who perhaps may be able to give furthef information on the subject. Horticultural Club.- The annual meet-1 ing of the Horticultural Club took place on Tueip day last at the headquarters, Hotel Windsor, Westminster, and on the evening of the same da the members met at dinner. The president, Sid Frank Crisp, Bait., occupied the chair on botbj occasions. We reserve our report of the pro-j ceedings until the next issue. The Surveyors Institution. -The nex ordinary general meeting will be held in the . ture Hall of the institution on Monday, the f inst.. at 8 p.m., when papers will be delivered by Mr. Isaac Dixon and Mr. E. H. N. Ryde " The Report of the Land Enquiry Committee I Rating." Glasgow Parks.— The Glasgow Parks Con mittee has recommended the City Council to ap point an Assistant Superintendent of ParkS under Mr. James Whitton, V.M.H., the Superf int'endent. The commencing salary is to be atl the rate of £250 per annum. A GARDENER'S LONG SERVICE.— Mr. G.B Batley is retiring from the post of gardened at Wentworth Castle after upwards of nftjH years' service. His family has been associated™ with the Wentworth Castle Gardens for over afl century. Gardener s Death follows a Scratch from t. Gooseberry Thorn. — The corontj for South Herefordshire has held an enquiry onfl the death of William Edwin Buckett, al gardener in the employ of Mr. A. E. Wiialley, i Hellene, Much Marcle. The widow stated thafl her husband returned home from work in thdj afternoon and said that whilst pruning GooseB berry bushes he had pricked his finger. She esM tracted a thorn from the finger and afterwards poulticed the wound. At the coroner's inquest a doctor stated that death resulted from pneu- monia, and that very remotely the accident may i have had something to do with Mr. Buckett's ] death. Density of Population in Belgium.— Od| p. 84 of our last issue the Belgian population! per square mile was given as 200. This isl erroneous. The population of Belgium is about 7i million, and the area 29,500 square kilometres* thus giving a population of about 650 per square mile. War Items.— French Army Order, DecemB her 17, 1914.— The 8th section of machine-gui cars, in command of Reserve Captain Louis DE VlLMOEIN, volunteered to operate in the first fighting line a battery of 80mm. mountain* guns. The section, by supporting night and day the advance of our infantry, contributed effec- tively to disorganise the defence of a village by the German troops. Official Journal, /■ibruarM 1, 1915. At a meeting of the R.H.S. Orchid ComJ mittee on Tuesday last, Sir Jeremiah ColmaM Bart., made a suggestion with a view to helping- '. Belgian horticulturists who have sustained losses] during the war. He thought that help might be . afforded by the sale of Orchids given for the! purpose by members of the committee and others,! and expressed the pleasure he would feel inl contributing to such a scheme or assisting in anjj way that might be decided upon. He was awarai B o E a a •d E 3 0 o a a 3 m February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 101 that the Council had the matter of relief gener- ally in hand, but he thought that some movement independent of that would be of material help. Mr. Gurney Fowler agreed with the spirit of Sir Jeremiah Colman's suggestion, and advised the members to think it over and give their opinion at the next meeting. Corporal Donner, B Company, 1st Batt. Lincoln Regiment, whose photograph we repro- duce (see p. 102). writes from the firing linetosay that he*is fit and well, and that he finds the life " very interesting, exciting, and yet fascinating." He expresses recognition of the generosity of the British public in providing bags of tobacco, cigar- ettes, pipes and all sorts of comforts. Corporal Donner, who represented Messrs. J. Bentley, Ltd., for twelve years, and who volunteered also for service in the South African wTar, has many friends in the gardening world who will be glad to have news of him and to know that he is fit and well. Our illustration in fig. 27 shows that, as befits " baby-killing " raiders, nurseries were not omitted from the attentions lavished on Scar- borough by German shells. The wrecked nur- sery is that of Messrs. Walshaw and Son. Mr. John McKerchar. - The many friends of Mr. John McKerchar, nurseryman, Hollo- Hybrid, the first Rose to be called an hybrid Tea, he might just as well have called the group Paulonia. The publications committee had sug- gested a compromise which, while retaining the connection of the name with M. Pernet-Ducher, would also comply with the rule. But the sup- porters of this nurseryman's designation would have none of it. To quote Mr. Buckle again, they would throw away every hope of comjn'omise and close in internecine conflict on the matter. And they carried their point at a meeting on Tuesday last, when a majority of the Council of the Society decided to "adopt" the name Per- netiana, and there for the moment the matter rests. Grain and Meal Statistics. — The fol- lowing details on grain and meal are issued by the Board of Agriculture : — Imports last week. — Wheat, 1,113,600 cwts. ; Bariey, 56,300 cwts. ; Oats, 15,600 cwts. ; Maize, 677,600 cwts. In corresponding week, 1914 : — Wheat, 1,562,800 cwts. ; Barley, 248,700 cwts. ; Oats, 559,300 cwts. ; Maize, 1,033,400 cwts. Imports during January : — Wheat, 7,791,300 cwts., against 7,232,600 cwts. in 1914, and 7,345,600 cwts. in 1913; Barley, 661,600 cwts., against 1,003,000 cwts. in 1914, and 2,157,300 cwts. in 1913 ; Oats, 589,100 cwts., against 1,705,915 cwts. in 1914, and 965,400 cwts. in 1913. London.— Wheat : Fig. 27. — Scarborough nursery damaged by shell fired from a German warshtp. way, will learn with regret of the death of his wife, which occurred on the 10th inst., after a long illness. . Austrian Hybrids and Pernetiana (see also p. 96). — In a well-known passsage in Bucexe it is suggested that the true white heat of controversy is only reached between adver- saries who have adopted different words to ex- press the same idea ; and in a slightly different sense this seems to have been exemplified in the discussion that has been raised as to the name to be applied to the group of hybrid Roses hitherto called by the N.R.S. Austrian hybrids, the first member of which is believed to be Soleil d'Or, and to have been raised by M. Pernet-Ducher and called by him Rosa Pernet- iana. The name was objected to on two dis- tinct grounds. It was said on the one hand that the name offended against the rule of Botanical nomenclature, under which the names to be given to hybrid forms of garden origin are to be as different as possible from the Latin names given to species. On the other hand it wras also ob- jected that many raisers had now produced and are producing Roses of this type, and that it was not fair to them to call the group by the name of a particular nurseryman, one speaker saying that when Mr. Paul brought out Cheshunt Farmers have sent a fair quantity to town, mainly coastwise. Prices are 62s. for dry and good white, 61s. for the be6t red, with damp samples at 57s. to 58s. Revitts were in very short supply and have risen to 59s. Canadian Wheat makes 70s., 69s., and 68s. per 496 lbs. for the three top grades ex town warehouse, Is. less if not yet landed. There are no fresh arrivals of Indian, so that gTain actually deliverable is very dear. Barley. — The best English makes 44s. per 448 lbs., being 2s. advance on the week. TheTe is more demand, and Malt participates in the improvement : 50s. is paid for best English and Scotch, 48s. for fine C'alifornian, all per 336 lbs. Feeding Barley is scarce, and 36s. 6d. per 400 lbs. is paid for Indian. Russian is hardlv procur- able. Oats. — There are rather over-average sup- plies of British. Over 3,000 qrs. have Teached the London goods stations, and are obtainable at a level 12s. per cwt. Scotland sends some very fine Oats coastwise. These are much appre- ciated and the best aTe taken up promptly for sowing. Coastwise arrivals are 2,728 qrs. A small quantity, 920 qrs., has arrived from the Cape, value about 35s. per 320 lbs. Some New Zealand i6 still on offer at 37s. per 336 lbs. Maize. — The 6ales have been very small, but extremely firm holding is to be noted. So long as the United States withhold their large new crop the market is dependent on one source, Argentina. The supply on passage from that country is so large that the aggregate quantity in sight, 1,140,000 qrs., is decidedly above the average of the past ten yeaTs, although previous years at this date included Russian as well as American. Pulse. — Peas are rather easier to buy, but Beans are dearer. Rye. — This staple has reached 52s. per 480 lbs. Meal. — Fine middlings are still at 220s., and Pollards are unchanged, but Sharps have risen to 160s., and common Bran to 130s. per ton. A Grist called extra fancy middlings, but for human use, is in demand at 37s. to 38s. per 280 lbs. sack. Barley meal is dearer on the week, £11 per ton being demanded, or lis. 6d. for a single cwt. Oatmeal is not dearer from the high prices pre- viously registered. There is a rise of fully Is. per cwt. in the best corn (Maize) flour, as 13s. 6d. per cwt. is readily obtained. PYRACANTHA. (See Supplementary Illustration.) Though now generally regarded as belonging to a distinct genus, the three species of Pyra- cantha have at various times been included in the genera Cbtoneaster, Crataegus and Mespilus. They are evergreen shrubs bearing white blos- soms and scarlet or orange-coloured fruits in autumn and early winter. Two at least of the three species are on the borderland of hardiness and can only be grown successfully out-of-dcors in the 60uth and west. Though the bushes may survive for several years during mild winters, when the inevitable severe frosts come, they are, if not killed outright, badly injured. For this reason it is desirable to plant at least two of the species against a sheltered south or west wall. The third and best-known species, P. coc- cinea, is more hardy and a popular subject for clothing bare walls, fences and arbours. As all the species fruit freely, seeds provide a ready means of propagation ; they should be sown in a cold frame or heated pit as soon as ripe. A well-drained loam, light rather than heavy, is the most suitable rooting medium. It ic as well to plant young specimens, for older plants are by no means easy subjects to trans- plant successfully. May and September are the best seasons for planting. P. angustifolia. — This species is a native of Western China, and was introduced to this country in 1899 by Lieutenant Jones. Presum- ably the French missionaries sent seeds to Europe at about the same time, for a few yeai'6 later M. Maurice de Vilmorin received a First- class Certificate for the plant under the name of Cotoneaster angustifolia at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on November 29, 1905. This is the name under which the species figured in the Botanical Magazine, tab. 8,345. P. angustifolia is the most tender of the three species and requires the protection of a wall or fence, and, presumably because the branches on a wall are well spread out, they fruit much more freely than plants in the shrubbery. The sunny weather of last autumn suited the plant, and at Kew Gardens a specimen on a wall some 10 feet high bore a profusion of fruits. A point worth noting is that the berries remain on the branches well into the New Year whilst those of P. coccinea have passed before Decem- ber. The species is readily distinguished by the narrow, oblong leaves up to 2 inches long and § inch wide, dull-green above, covered with a greyish felt beneath. The white flowers form a closely arranged corymb up to 2 inches in diameter. The shining, oranga-yi « fruits grow in rather flat clusters up to about twenty in number; they are Battish and i to | inch in diameter. P. coccinea. — This is a very old garden plant, for it was introduced in 1629. It is a native of South Europe and Asia Minor, and hardier than the other species. The plant forms a large 102 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 20, 1915. evergreen bush 12 feet or more in height, but when planted against a dwelling-house grows much higher. It is an evergreen, and therefore ornamental at all seasons. About mid-June the corymbs of white blossoms attract attention, while in atitumn ithe orange-scarlet fruits are ex- ceedingly beautiful. Unfortunately blackbirds and thrushes are very fond of the ripe fruits. Specimens planted against walls meed pruning in February, otherwise the growths become straggly and tangled. The flowers and subse- quent berries are borne on the previous year's growth, consequently the pruning should, as far as possible, consist of cutting out or shortening the older shoots. The variety Lalandei is of garden origin; the fruits are rather lighter in colour than the type, and are generally produced with greater freedom. P. crentjlata (see Supplementary Illustra- tion).— Until recently the plants of this species growing in our gardens were natives of the Temperate Himalayas. During Mr. E. H. Wilson's travels in Western China he found a Pyracantha in Western Hupeh and Western Szech'uan which has been identified with this species. Mr. Wilson describes it as an exceed- ingly common shrub, variable in the size and tex- ture of its leaves, which are commonly used as Tea. Dr. Henry also collected specimens in Yunnan. Circumstances point to the Chinese form being much more useful in gardens than the older Himalayan plant. We must, however, wait for a severe winter to prove its hardiness. A. 0. HOME CORRESPONDENCE. (The Editors do not hold themselves responsible for the opinions expressed by correspondents.) Avondale Forestry Station.— Being interested in forestry, especially in timber-pro- ducing conifers, I beg to differ from Mr. Forbes regarding the following trees : — Pinus Bank- siana in America rarely attains a height of 90 feet, but is usually a small tree or shrub. There are a very few trees of this Pinus of any size in cultivation in Great Britain. At Arley Castle is one seventy years old, 45 feet by 3 feet 3 inches in girth, and at Mr. G. Paul's nursery, Ches- hunt, a tree 30 feet by 3 feet 4 inches, planted about 1845, and a few smaller trees are known. From this extremely slow rate of growth I can hardly classify it as a timber-producing tree growing rapidly. As regards the timber, I quote Mr. Elwes in Trees of Great. Britain and Ireland : — " This species1 is likely, from an economic point of view, to be worthless in thi country." Tsuga Pattoniana (Mertensiana) has been introduced for nearly sixty years. Very few specimens are known of any size. The largest is at Tyberton Court, fifty years old and only 45 feet high by 3 feet 6 inches girth. The wood is suitable for fuel only. May I suggest Tsuga Albertiana, a tree of rapid growth and producing valuable timber for joinery and other purposes? There are many fine trees in Great Britain ; at Hallyburton, Coupar Angus, a tree 10 feet in girth. Among fast-growing conifers producing valuable timber for estate work I mention Pinus ponderosa, of which I have many fine trees in my collection ; one, a tree with a clean stem for 40 feet, measures 101 feet in height with a girth at 5 feet of 9 feet 6 inches. The tree was planted in 1838. This Pinus has been very little planted for timber purposes. Pinus Laricio is also a very useful tree, growing fast, and producing durable timber that is easily worked. Under the heading " making poor rate of growth and not likely to attain timber size," I entirely disagree with Mr. Forbes. I allude to Cedrus Libani, which I consider a very fast-growing tree. I have many large trees growing at Bayfordhurv planted in 1765. The largest tree in 1907 measured at 5 feet 20 feet in girth ; height 94 feet; which I do not consider a poor rate of growth. //. Clinton-Baker. Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden Guild.— My attention has been drawn to a slight inaccuracy in the designation of the above Guild in your issue of January 30, p. 57. In your notice of the first number of the journal of the Guild you refer to the Guild as the Edin- burgh Royal Botanic Society Guild. The Edin- burgh Royal Botanic Garden Guild is a social organisation of gardeners and others who are or have been in the past connected with the Edin- burgh Royal Botanic Garden. It is established upon lines similar to the Kew Guild, and is intended primarily to serve the useful purpose of keeping the present gardening staff in touch with those who have been employed in the Garden in the past and have left for other spheres of work. The committee of the Guild is anxious to secure the membership of all past members of the gardening staff of the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden. Will past members of the staff who have not been personally invited to become members of the Guild communicate with the Secretary, Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden Guild, Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh ? Harry F. Tagg. Spotting of Apples.— In reply to Southern Grower (p. 80) I may say that I have observed the same form of spotting of Apples as that described by him. I am only a private grower, CORPORAL DOKHBR. (See p. 101.) but can fully sympathise with him in the loss sustained after all the labour of sorting. I have grown fruit here for twenty-seven years, but this is the first season I have noticed any sign of the disease. The varieties that have suffered most with me are Striped Beefing, Bramley's Seed- ling, Annie Elizabeth, and Newton Wonder. This week I can see slight 6igns on Dumelow's Seedling and Northern Spy. Cox's Orange Pippin that I am using out of packing material in closed boxes shows no signs of disease at present. All the rest have been stored in trays, in no case more than two layers deep, with plenty of ventilation, and up to Christmas they were apparently free from all blemish. The majority were grown on young, healthy trees and winter sprayed only. Our soil here is light loam about 12 inches deep and chalk subsoil. Some of the trees are growing in an orchard on a hill and some in the kitchen garden in a valley ^ mile distant. The produce from each source is affected. Like Souihem Grower, I can offer no suggestion as to the cause or origin of the attack. In selecting our Apples I think the question will have to be asked, "Are they disease-resisting?" What with "bitter pit," brown rot, black spot, and other pests, the outlook for the commercial fruit grower does not appear rosy. W. Peters, Givons Gardens, Leatherhcad. " Winter Grime " (see p. 79).— It is hardly fair to accuse London gardeners, by implication, of a lack of initiative in that they are reluctant, apparently, to try other varieties of shrubs than those described by the writer as being " common to London gardens." Other varieties have been tried alongside the despised Privet, Aucuba and Euonymus, only to find that the survivors are our old friends. Our failure to make London gardens cheerful arises from causes beyond our control — such as the condition of the atmosphere and the soil. We have the London fogs to corr- tend with ; nowhere else in these islands can such another oxygen-destroyer be found, not even, I should say, in the Black Country, the Potteries, or South Lancashire. We have, alsG, the ceaseless deposit of soot, impregnating the soil with sulphuric acid, creating therein a per- manent sourness, making it almost impossible for shrubs to throw out fibrous roots into such a medium. Only if the roots manage to penetrate to the sweeter subsoil can the shrubs subsist, let alone flourish. This sourness can, we know, be somewhat neutralised by the application of lime, but of all cultural helps the use of lime in Lon- don gardens and squares is the one most sparsely utilised. The deposit of soot turns all variegated evergreens into a -uniform grimy hue, as well as their non-variegated neighbours, no matter how beautifully variegated they were when planted. Years ago, judging by the size and age of the Hollies, Boxes and Yews in this garden, the conditions affecting growth must have been more favourable than now, for we cannot plant any of these at present with assurance that they will grow. Osmanthus ilicifolius has lately been tried as a substitute for Holly, on the ground that the fibrous roots would stand a better chance of lay- ing hold than would the harder and coarser roots of the Holly. I am beginning to doubt whether the substitution will be successful, seeing that I have already had to cut away approximately one-fifth of the branches because of decay. My experience is that there are no evergreen shrubs better for London than Aucubas, Bush Ivies, Viburnum Tinus and Euonymus. There are planted in this garden both Olearia Haastii and the coarse, Cabbage-like Saxifraga (Megasea) cordifolia, but their growth is disappointingly slow, and years must pass before they can be- come moderately-sized specimens. We protest against grime, but cannot hope for much im- provement in the London gardens until the smoke nuisance is eliminated. L. Simms, Lad- broke Square Garden, London. Cupressus macrocar pa. — Professor Somerville, in his note on p. 76, remarks "If it is planted out in a sheltered position ... it rushes up so quickly that it can- not hoid itself erect." This coincides with my experience of the yellow form — Cupressus macrocarpa lutea — or, rather, I should say that in such circumstances the root system does not develop sufficiently to meet the strain imposed by the very rapid top growth, with fhe result that the plant is unable to withstand even mode- rate gales. About eight years ago I planted out a number of Cupressus macrocaTpa lutea, as "dot" plants in beds of mixed, small, orna- mental Coniferae, Cupressus Lawsoniana Silver Queen, Juniperus japonicus aurea and others. When received from the nursery I noticed that they had very poor roots. They had been grown in the long nursery pots, plunged in the open ground. However, they all grew very freely, and quickly developed into handsome plants. Four years afterwards I lifted several of them for re- moval to another garden, and I again noticed their seemingly inadequate root system. Cupres- sus macrocarpa lutea is a handsome shrub, well worthy of inclusion in any collection of Coniferae. As already mentioned, its growth is remarkably rapid, and it retains its bright golden colour on the older growth. In habit it is inclined to be sparse, but the branches are well feathered along their whole length, so that they do not appear unduly thin. Fred W. Jeffery, Abbeyhill, Argyll. February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 103 POUR NOS AMIS FRANCAIS ET BELGES. CHRONIQUE SPECIALE (XV). LE MARCHE DE COVENT GARDEN. (Suite de la p. 81.) C'est Floral Hall qui amene " dans la circula- tion " les gros envois de Porame6 du Canada, de Californie et d'Australie, de Bananes et d'Ananas des iles de l'Atlantique. Occasionnellement tous les produits amenes en surabondance et qui menacent de se perdre, y trouvent un refuge. Quelle que soit la nature du produit, on est assure d'y trouver une clientele immediate. La plupart des envois arrivant aux docks par quantites enormes, et seuls les echantillons etant amenes dans Floral Hall, un commerce special avait pris naissance il y a quelques aimees. Des agents circulaient parmi les groupes au cours des operations de vente, offrant aux amateurs des fruits accumules au port, et des acheteurs se laissaient prendre aux avantages qu'ils faisaient miroiter a leurs yeux : transport direct et suppression de la commission elevee exigee par les inteTmediaires du marche. On s'est bientot emu de ce trafic, qui faisait un tort considerable aux directeurs des ventes a Floral Hall, les "auctioneers," et une mesure radicale fut prise : Faeces du Hall fut rigoureuse- ment interdit aux " indesirables " qui, sans payer de loyers, de taxes, de personnel, usaient des locaux de Covent Garden pour faire la con- currence aux intermediaires accredites. Des gardiens postes a Fentree de Floral Hall devisageaient minutieusement les passants et toute personne suspecte etait renvoyee. II parait cependant que cette maniere de proceder deplut aux expediteurs qui y suspecterent un anoyen pour rendre tout eontrole de la vente impossible; a la suite de leurs plaintes Faeces de la criee est redevenu plus facile. Des halls etablis du cote sud de Covent Gar- den, le plus grand est reserve aux produits anglais. La plupart des grands horticulteurs y ont un stand dans lequel ils mettent en vente leurs planteset fleurs. Lesfleuristes de moindre import- ance confient leurs produits aux soins de commis- sionnaires. L'aspect de ce compartiment est assez semblable a celui des marches de fleurs tenus les jours de foire, dans de nombreuse6 petites ville6 du continent. La marchandise courante y est surtout la poteede Kentia, Phenix, Cocos, Fougere, Aspidistra, Azalee, Anthemis, Solanum, Erica, Jacinthe, Tulipe, Muguet, et la fleur eoupee, variable selon les saisons. Ties im- portants sont aussi les apports de feuillage d'arbres fnrestiers ou d'ornement. Le visiteur qui desire se rendre compte de Factivite qui regne dans ce compartiment, devra etre matinal; le marche etant deja ferme quand la vie com- mence dans la plupart des quartiers commerciaux de Londres. (A suivre.) LE PROBLEME DE LA RECONSTRUCTION. Dtj 11 au 16 fevrier ont eu lieu les reunions organisees par la Garden Cities and Town Plan- ning Association en vue d'etudier les regies a suivre dans la reconstruction des villes et vil- lages detruits en Belgique et dans le Nord de la France. Les assistants ont ete vivement in- teresses par les resultats obtenus en Angleterre, specialement a Letehworth et a Hampstead Suburb. Plus d'air et plus de lumiere y sont assures aux habitants et les lieux de recreation n'y manquent pas. L'horticulture n'y est pas negligee ; les pares existants y sont maintcnus, les larges avenues pourvues d'une belle decoration Morale, les murs garnis de plantes grimpantes. Chaque maison est precedee d'un jardinet ou les arbustes et fleurs — toujours de culture facile — abondent. En regie generale aussi, l'occupant dispose d'un potager 6iirnsaniment etendu pour fouruir les legumes necessaires a sa faiu.ii Comme beaucoup d'exploitants s'improvisent amateurs horticoles du jour au lendemain, il est facile de concevoir que la conduite du jardin n'est pas ideale au debut, inais bientot Fexemple et les conseils des voisins plus experimentes les mettent sur la voie. De plus a Hampstead un ■cercle horticole s'est cree et vise a donner aux membres la science de la conduite du jardin. Le principe de Letehworth et de Hampstead est eertes digne d'imitation; si le regime de la propriete, les usages de la population font que certains details d'application ne conviennent pas a la France et a la Belgique, les regions devastees peuvent cependant y trouver d'utiles enseigne- meivts. Suivant des renseignements fournis a la con- ference, en Belgique aussi on se preoccupe deja de la reconstruction et du role que l'horticulture aura a jouer en Foccurrence. A cette tin des com- missions ont ete creees s'occupant Fune des vdlles industrielles, Fautre des centres urbains, la troisieme des villages agricoles. Cette derniere est presidee par M. De Vuyst, l'organisateur du " Village Moderne " a l'exposition de Gand, ou Fon s'etait dans une si large mesure inspire des avantages de la culture maraichere pour la popu- lation rurale. NOUVELLES DIVERSES. Tous Mobilises ! — "Vitry, 12 fevrier, 1915. — J'ai l'honneur de vous faire savoir que la Societe des Jardiniers Slaves a Paris, Rue Ste. Anne 40, n'existe plus depuis le debut de la guerre, tous les membres ayani ete appeles sous les drapeaux. Elle ne reprendra ses travaux qu'a la fin de la guerre. — Agreez, etc. Pour la Societe des Jardiniers Slaves a Paris, Vincenc Meusik." Voila une situation qui merite d'etre signalee. Quand les Jardiniers Slaves se reuniront a nouveau ils constitueront, de par la force des choses, une societe de combattants de 1914-1915 ! Les Tribulations de la ChicorU de Bruxelles.— Nous avons signale a diverse6 reprises que des envois de Chicoree de Bruxelles arrivaient parfois a Loudres. Paris, le grand consommateur de primeurs, ne parvient evidemment pas a s'en procurer directement a Bruxelles, au grand dam des producteurs beiges qui en temps normal lui adressent chaque jour plusieurs milliers de kilogrammes de Chicoree. Mais Finsistance de certains gourmets parisiens nous a fait assister au spectacle suivant : de la Chicoree expedite de Bruxelles a Rotterdam, de Rotterdam a Londres et de londres a Paris ! Grace aux precautions prises lors de Femballage, la marchandise est arrivee en excellent etat. Malheureusement, les multiples restrictions mises par les Allemands a l'exportation vers la Hollande ne permettent guere aux maraichers brabangons d'etendre leurs envois. Le Marche horticole en Hollande.— Le marclie des fleurs forcees d'Aalsmeer n'est pas encore defavorablement influence par les evenements. De grandes quantites de legumes et de fruits continuent de prendre la voie de FAllemagne. Dans le Betuwe, le grand centre de production, les fruits realisent des prix rarement atteints jusqu'ici. Les legumes s'eeoulcnt toujours a des prix eleves, la demande depassant l'offre. Les Oignons, dont la culture est si importante dans les Pays Bas, depassent vingt francs les cent kilogrammes. Des petits legumes verts, insignifiants en ap- parency, sont expedies par wagons entiers vera FAllemagne. On se plaint toujours de la difficulty d'obtenir des wagons fermes pour ce transport. Le gouvernement neerlandais a inter- dit l'exportation des sentences. Suivant un com- munique a la presse, l'application de cette mesure a ete provisoirement suspendue pour ce qui con- cerne les Pois et les Feves, que la Hollande cul- tive en partie pour la semence. MM. Pernet. — Nous apprenons que les deux fils de MM. Pernet-Ducher, le rosieriste de Venissieux lez Lyon, se sont trouves sur la ligne de feu en France. D'apres des nouvelles four- nies par des camarades, Faine aui'ait ete blesse et fait prisonnier. On Faurait vu a Fambu- lance de Douai. M. 'Pernet-Ducher n'a pas recu confirmation de la nouvelle, mais il est a re- marquer que les Allemands n'autorisent pas les prisonniers a correspondre avec leva' famille aussi longtemps qu'ils se trouvent en territoire fran9ais ou beige. Le cadet se trouvait dans les Vosges au moment ou il ecrivait sa derniei'e lettre. Plantes printanieres.— La derniere ex- position de la Societe Royale d'Horticulture d'Angleterre, tenue mardi a Vincent Square, a prouve une fois de plus, Fadmirable parti que les Anglais tirent des plantes a floraison printaniere pour la decoration de leurs jardms. Si on excepte la Tulipe et la Jacinthe, on peut dire que les jardiniers du continent font trop peu usage des plantes bulbeuses ; meme les Narcisses et les Crocus font defaut dans enormement de jardins. On a pu voir que les plantes rustiques a floraison printaniere cun- stituaient le clou de Fexposition. Parmi les plus remarquees signalons des especes precoces de Cyclamen, Perce neige, Narcisse, Scilla, Mus- cari, Eranthis, Anemone, Iris, Helleborus, Colchique, Primula, toutes de culture facile et qui meritent d'etre d'un usage plus generale dans les jardins du continent. KORT OVERZICHT VOOR DE VLAM1NGEN. In Floral Hall kwamen zekere lieden fruit onderhands te koop bieden. Ze deden gelden dat ze de waar rechtstreeks van de dokken kon- den leveren zonder de marktrechten te eischen. Maatregelen werden tegen hen genomen. Ten Zuiden van Covent Garden bevinden zich twoe overdekte zalen, eene voor het verkoopen van engelsche planten en bloemen, en eene, de fransche markt, \-oor de bloemen der oevers van de Middellandsche Zee. Van 11 tot 16 Februari hadden in Louden de vergaderingen plaats belegd met het oog op de te nemen maatregelen voor het herbouwen dir vernietigde huizingen in Belgie en Nooxd Franluijk. De nieuwe engelsche stad Letcli- worth en de londensche voors'tad Hampstead werden als model aangeduid. Daar worden de moderne middelen toegepast om meer lucht, meer licht, meer deftig verzet aan de 6tad.: bewoners te verschaffen. Veel wordt er ook gedaan om bloem — en moesteelt in eer te brengen. In Brussel houdt men zich ook reeds met hit vraagstuk onlcdig en onder andere word eei commissie tot stand gebracht voor bet hero] bouwen der buitendorpen. De jongste tentoonstelling des koninklijkc engelsche tuinbouwmaatschappij bewijst ecus te meer welk goed gebruik hier gemaakt wordt — en op het Vasteland kan gemaakt worden— van vroegbloeiende planten vooral behoorende tot ill' llnl^i'WilSSCII. 104 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 20, 1915. SOCIETIES ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. February 16. — The fortnightly meeting held on Tuesday last in the Vincent Square Hall was not so large as is usual at this season. The groups in the Floral Section consisted mainly of Alpines and spring flowers, but none was of outstanding importance, and many of the Alpines were not in bloom. The Floral Committee recommended four Awards of Merit, three to Crocuses, the other to a highly-coloured variety of Primula mala- coides. The Orchid Committee awarded five Medals to collections and recommended three Awards of Merit to novelties. The Fruit and Vegetable Committee recom- mended a Silver Banksian Medal for a collection of Carrots. At the three o'clock meeting Mt. R. Irwin Lynch delivered an address on " The Trees of the Cambridge Botanic Garden." Orehid Committee. Present: Mr. J. Gurney Fowler, in the chair, and Messrs. Jas. O'Brien (hon. secre- tary), De B. Crawshav, R. Brooman White, Gurney Wilson, W. Bolton, S. W. Flory, W. H. White, H. G. Alexander, J. E. Shill, W. H. petals are bright ruby-red, the lip white with ruby-red blotches. The use of the narrow- petalled 0. Phoebe would scarcely have been ex- pected to give a flower of such broad proportions, and probably it will continue to be a rare form. GENERAL EXHIBITS. Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart., Gatton Park (gr. Mr. Collier), was awarded a Silver Flora Medal for an elegant group of Cymbidiums, including a fine specimen of C. grandiflorum with two spikes, and C. Queen of Gatton (insigne X Lady Colman), one of the most beautiful of hybrid Cymbidiums, with blush-white flowers regularly marked with rose-purple dotted lines ; and other varieties. A fine specimen of Anguloa Cliftonii, with three large pale-yellow flowers marked inside with purple, occupied the centre of the group. C. J. Phillips, Esq., The Glebe, Sevenoaks, sent Cattleya Trianae Lord Kitchener, a large and finely formed flower with a broad and evenly crimped, rosy-mauve lip ; and the dark violet Odontioda Brunette. Pantia Ralli, Esq., Ashtead Park, Surrey (gr. Mr. Fames), showed Odontoglossum crispo-Wiganianum Buttercup, a clear yellow flower with a few dark chocolate-red spots, and a good companion to his O. Canary illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle, January 17, 1914. p. 44. Mr. Ralli also showed his fine Brasso- Cattleya Menda, which was awarded a First- <• Fig. 28. — potato " the admiral. (See p. 98.) Hatcher, C. H. Curtis, J. Cypher, J. Charles- worth, Walter Cobb, Pantia Ralli. A. McBean, R. G. Thwaites, F. J. Hanbury, J. Wilson Potter, Stuart Low, R. A. Rolfe, Sir Harry J. Veitch and Sir Jeremiah Colman, Bart. AWARDS OF MERIT. Cymbidium Schlegelii Fowler's Variety [insigne x Wiganianum), from J. Gurney Fow- ler, Esq., Brack enhurst, Pembury (gr. Mr. J. Davis). This is the finest form yet shown, the large blush-white flowers, with faint rose lines, and the broad labellum, spotted with claret- co'our bearing distinct traces of C. eburneum and C. Tracyanum, inherited from C. Wigania- num, the dotted lines on the side lobes being very similar to those on the latter species. Odontoglossum Sandhurstiense (coronarium X Edwardii) from C. J. Phillips, Esq., The Glebe, Sevenoaks (gr. . Mr. Bucknell). A most remarkable cross, shown by Messrs. Armstrong and Brown last year, but now greatly improved. The flowers have well-rounded sepals and petals, nearest to 0. coronarium, and of thick texture, deep reddish-claret colour, and with a glossy surface. The flowers are larger than those of either parent. Odontioda Patricia (Odm. Phoebe X Oda. Charlesworthii), from Messrs Charlesworth and Co., Haywards Heath. A very richly coloured flower of good shape. The sepals and Class Certificate on February 18, 1914, a note- worthy fact, as it shows how closely some of these hybrids keep to their time of flowering when well established. J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., sent Cypripedium Ernest Read, of unrecorded parentage. A very good and large flower of fine shape, but with obscure markings, as in C. Felicity. Baron Bruno Schroder, The Dell, Engle- field Green, showed flowers of Cattleya Trianae Mooreana and C. T. The Premier. Messrs. Charlesworth and Co., Haywards Heath, were awarded a Silver Flora Medal for a finely grown group in which several plants of the snow-white Odontoglossum ardentissimum xanthotes, some good blotched varieties of 0. ardentissimum and other hybrids were noted. Some showy Odontiodas. including the new 0. Latona var. Harlequin ; a finely spotted Odontoglossum nebulosum, the pretty Odontoma Langowoyi, forms of Brasso-Laelio-Cattleya Joan, of a pretty copper-orange tint ; Sophro-Catt'.eya warnhamensis and Sophro-Laelia Psyche, with bright scarlet flowers ; some fine Cattleyas Trianae, including the very handsome C. T. Roebling's variety. Messrs. Sander and Sons, St. Albans, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a group in which the forms of Cattleya Trianae were very fine, and a selection of hybrid Cypripe- diums of various tints, but all of excellent form, were prominent. Among the Odontoglossums, 0. McNabianum was finely blotched, some spotted 0. crispum and the dark purple 0. Ethelreda (Edwardii X triumphans) were re- marked, and several very good Laelio-Cattleyas, Odontiodas. and Orchids of botanical interest were included. Messrs. J. and A. McBean, Cooksbridge, secured a Silver Banksian Medal for a group \vith good white forms of Laelia anceps and a specimen of the large and brightly coloured L. A. Fascinator, with well-flowered plants of Cymbidium Alexanderi, the best of which was McBean's variety, with good cream-white flowers with rose spots inside the margin of the lip. Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Jarvisbrook, Sussex, were awarded a Silver Banksian Medal for a group with Laelia anceps Sanderiana and other white varieties ; Cymbidium Schlegelii, C. Alexanderi, C. Coningsbyanum, the bright- red Oncidioda Cooksoniae, their dwarf cool- house form of Dendrobium Jamesianum, and other Dendrobiums. Messrs. Mansell and Hatcher, Rawdon, Leeds, showed Odontioda Joan Rawdon variety (Odm. ardentissimum x Oda. Charlesworthii) with finely formed, magenta-crimson flowers with darker markings on the lip. The plant was flowering for the first time, and showed excellent qualities. Messrs. Hassall and Co., Southgate, sent a white form of Cattleya Trianae with pale lilac blotch on the lip, and the bright-red Sophro- Cattleya Cleopatra. Odontioda Amata (Bolmhoffiae Charles- worthii). — Messrs. Charlesworth and Co. showed a number of spikes, showing remarkable variation, no two being alike in form or colour, although all from the same sowing. Two re- markable circumstances are to be noted, the first being that the Cochlioda Noezliana in Odontioda Charlesworthii is almost lost in the hybrid, while the Odontoglossum Harryanum asserts itself so strongly that some of the forms might be taken for imperfectly developed varie- ties of that species, their colour being yellowish with dark-claret blotches and white lip, shaped and marked as in 0. Harryanum. With Odon- tioda Bolmhoffiae (Cochlioda vulcanica x Odontoglossum cirrhosum) in this cross, the Cochlioda is the assertive agent in its section, the flowers of some having much of its shape and distinct purplish colour. It points to the fact that complicated crosses produce indivi- duals which from the first have diverse elements of form and colour-essentials, and are not sub- ject to the more arbitrary influences pertaining to primary crosses. Floral Committee. Present: Mr. H. B. May (in the chair), and Messrs. G. Reuthe, W. J. Bean. John Green, G. Harrow, C. R. Fielder, Thos. Stevenson. W. Howe, W. II. Page, J. F. McLeod, C. Dixon, A. Turner, R. W. Wallace. F. Page Roberts, W. Cuthbertson, Chas. E. Shea, C. E. Pearson, W. P. Thomson, E. H. Jenkins, G. Paul. Ed. Mawley, F. W. Harvey, E. A. Bowles, R. C. Notcutt, J. W. Barr and R. Hooper Pearson. AWARDS OF MERIT. Primula malacoides Rose Queen. — A variety of vigorous growth, with strong spikes of from four to six whorls of large, rose-pink flowers. Six plants were exhibited in a box, each in a 4^-inch pot. Their fiie colour showed a great advance in this useful p'.ant. Shown by Mrs. E. H. Dennison, Little Gaddesden (gr. Mr. A. G Gentle). Crocus bifiorus Alexandri. — The outer seg- ments are almost wholly violet coloured on the exterior, there being only a narrow band of white on the margins. The interior is satiny- white, against which the golden anthers and orange-coloured stigmata show conspicuously. C. bi/lorus Lemon Queen. — The small, broad- petalled flowers of this variety are a soft lemon colour. The stigmata is saffron-red colour. C. Imperati albiflos. — A white variety of this well-known Neapolitan species, with pale cream- coloured exterior to the outer segments. All three shown bv Messrs. Barr and Sons. February 20, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 105 Groups. Messrs. H. B. May and Sons, Edmonton, were awarded a Silver Banksian Modal for Azaleas, Cyclamen, Cinerarias and their new variety of Richaidia africana, the whole interspersed with greenhouse Ferns. Messrs. Wills and Segar, South Kensing- ton, showed finely-flowered plants of Cyclamen latifoliuin and blue Cinerarias, with Palms and Ferns. (Bronze Banksian Medal.) Messrs. W. Ctjtbush and Son, Highgate, exhi- bited forced shrubs in variety and a col- lection of alpines and varieties of Perpetual- ilowering Carnations. (Silver Flora Medal.) Messrs. R. and G. Clthbert, Southgate, had the largest floral exhibit in a collection of Tulips, a big bank of fine white Freesias, and floriferous plants of Azalea mollis. (Silver Floral Medal.) Mr. Amos Perry, Enfield, showed hardy Ferns, interspersed with a few early flowers. (Bronze Flora Medal.) Messrs. Stuart Low and Co., Enfield, ex- hibited varieties of Perpetual- flowering Carna- tions, Acacia armata, Grevillea alpina, and splendid Cyclamen in batches of colours. (Bronze Flora Medal.) Messrs. H. Cannell and Sons, Eynsford, showed greenhouse Cinerarias interspersed with Primula malacoides ; also a batch of Cyclamens, including varieties of the papilio type. Mr. L. E. Russell, Richmond, exhibited a bank of forced shrubs, with a row of berried plants as a bordering. (Silver Banksian Medal.) Messrs. W. Wells and Co., Ltd., Merstham, showed blooms of Carnation Pink Sensation, the flowers being the best in the hall. Misses G. C. Price and A. B. Fife, East Grinstead, showed varieties of Perpetual-flower- ing Carnations. Messrs. Allwood Bros., Wivelstield, Hay- wards Heath, also exhibited select varieties of Perpetual-flowering Carnations. (Bronze Bank- sian Medal.) Messrs. Bare, and Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, showed pans of bulbous Irises, pans of Hyacinths, pots of fine Freesias, and a variety of alpines including Saxifraga Burseriana alba. Iris Danfordiae and splendid batches of Cro- cuses, C. Tommasinianus and C. aureus being specially fine. (Silver Banksian Medal.) Mr. Chas. Turner, Slough, exhibited pot plants of the variegated form of Selaginella Watsoniana. The plants were very pretty, having the appearance of small variegated Cupressus, the ends of the upright shoots being silvery. Mr. Maurice Prichard, Christchureh, Hamp- shire, exhibited pots of alpines for which a Bronze Banksian Medal was awarded. Saxi- fragas were good, especially S. Burseriana var. tridentina, also Primula megaseaefolia, Solda- nella alpina and Androsace carnea. Many exhibitors arranged hardy flowers and alpines amongst rock-work, and disposed dwarf shrubs at suitable spots, forming miniature rock- gardens. Those who exhibited in this manner included Messrs. Waterer, Sons and Crisp, Ltd., Twyford, their display embracing fine Saxifragas, Irises and Crocuses (Silver Banksian Medal) ; Messrs. Pipers, Bayswater (Bronze Flora Medal) ; Mr. Vernon T. Hill, Langford, Bristol; Messrs. R. Wallace and Co., Col- chester, who showed Primula sylvicola, a new species from China, with inflorescence somewhat resembling that of P. malacoides and foliage like P. mollis ; Messrs. J. Cheal and Sons, Crawley; .ind Mr. Clarence Elliott, Stevenage (Silver Banksian Medal). Messrs. G. and A. Clark, Ltd., Dover, again showed coloured Primroses and other spring flowers. Alpines and hardy flowers were also shown by Mr. G. W. Miller, Wisbech ; Mr. James l?ox, Haywards Heath. Sussex; Mr. G. Reuthe, Keston. Kent (Silver Banksian Medal) ; Guild- ford Hardy Plant Nursery ; R. Tucker and ^UN, Oxford (Bronze Flora Medal) ; Messrs. T. S. Ware, Ltd., Feltham (Bronze Banksian Medal). Miss C M. Dixon, Edenbridge, Kent, again exhibited bulbous flowers in variety. (Bronze Banksian Medal.) Messrs. Whitelegg and Page, Chislehurst, showed plants in flower of a hybrid Echeveria (E. glauca x E. metallica). Garden plans were exhibited by Mr. S. W. McLeod Braguins, 6, Tudor Road, Kingston-on- Thames. The designs included ground plans of some famous mazes and details of an improved fruit-room. There were also numerous exhibits of floral studies, including paintings and photographs. Fruit and Vegetable Committee. Present: Mr. Joseph Cheal (in the chair), Messrs. W. J. Jefferies, W. Bates, J. Basham, E. Beckett, A. Grubb, A. R. Allan, H. J. Wright, H. Markhain, W. E. Humphreys, A. Bullock, G. Reynolds, E. A. Bunyard, P. D. Tuckett, G. Wythes, 0. Thomas, W. Poupart, F. Perkins and J. Davis. The Chairman read the following communi- cation from Mr. George Bunyard : — "I am deeply grateful for yet another proof of your loyalty" to your old chairman. I shall value the beautiful illuminated address and scarfpin which your delegates, Messrs. Wood- ward and S. T. Wright, have now handed to me, and shall treat them as heirlooms. When eight years back you presented me with that fine Arrangements have been made with the Royal Horticultural Society for the holding of the N.C.S. Show on November 11-12 in the Horti- cultural Hall, Westminster. On the second day the show will close at 5 p.m. One-third of the members of the Floral Com- mittee retiring by rotation necessitated an elec- tion, and the following eentlemen were ap- pointed :— Messrs. P. A. Cragg. W. Newt, n, J. R. Riding, W. Walls, Leach and Runciman. The members of the other Committees were also appointed. UNITED HORTICULTURAL BENEFIT AND PROVIDENT. February 8. — The monthly meeting of this society was held in the R.H.S. Hall on the 8th inst. , Mr. Chas. H. Curtis presiding. Two new members were elected. The sick pay for the month on the ordinary side was a record one, amounting to £113 7s. 3d., on the State to £54 14s. lid., and maternity claims £15. One mem- ber was assisted from the Convalescent Fluid. The proposed alteration of rules was drafted for recommendation to the general meeting, which is to take place on April 12. Fig. 29. — potato "great scot. (See page 98.) enlarged photograph which now bangs in the upper room of the R.H.S. Hall, I felt that you had done ' all possible,' and it is most gratifying to me to find you still appreciate the work done (with your assistance) for the benefit of the country. I shall continue to watch your meet- ings from my retreat. Allow me now specially to thank those who have got up these beautiful testimonials and all of you for your co-operation. George Bunyard, The Crossways, Mereworlh." The only group w.;s a collection of Carrots, exhibited by Mrs. Dennison, Little Gaddesden (gr. Mr. A. G. Gentle), for which a Silver Banksian Medal was awarded. There were twenty varieties, and the roots were cleanly grown, but not unusually large. The best varieties were Scarlet Intermediate, Long Forcing (stump rooted). Red Elephant (the largest roots), Summer Favourite, Early Scarlet Horn and Selected Altrincham. ENQUIRY. MATTHIOLA TRISTIS. Can any friend oblige me with a plant or cut- tings of the old Night-scented Stock Matthiola Tristis ? George Bunyard, Mercworth, Kent. [Thanks for contribution to R.G.O.F.— Eds.] TRADE NOTE. Mr. Alfred L. Jones, for the past three years in the employment of Messrs. Kelway and Son, and formerly secretary to Messrs. W. W. John- son and Sons, Boston, is leaving this country early in March to take up a leading position with one of the large seed houses in Canada. GARDENING APPOINTMENTS. NATIONAL CHRYSANTHEMUM. February 15. — A meeting of the Executive Committee was held on Monday last at Carr's Restaurant, Strand, Mr. T. Bevan presiding. The Finance Committee recommended that the publication of the Transactions for 1915 should be deferred. It was decided that the schedule for the show next autumn shall take the form of a supplement to the schedule for last year. Mr. D. Sutton, late Foreman to Eustace E. PALMER, Esq., Drayton. House, Sherneld-on-Loddon, B.isini:- stokc, as 'Gardener to H. Gerhish, Esq., Miltowi Manor. Salisbury. Mr. T. Prentice, formerly Foreman at Braxted Park and King's Bromley Minor, as Gardener t" Mrs. Edward Powell, Oakbank, Hoole. Chester. Mr J. A. Cane, as Gardener to W. A. Johnstone. Esq., Kearsney Court, near Dover. Kent. [Thanks for Is. 6.d. B.d. British Queen .. 4 6- 5 0 Evergood 4 3- 4 6 Blackland 4 0- 4 3 Scotch, Up-to-date 4 3- 4 0 — Kins Edward 4 S- 4 11 ©bituar^. William R. Keay. -The American Horticul- tural papers announce the death, on the 22nd ult., of Mr. William R. Keay, florist, of Low- vine, New York, U.S.A., and a native of Scot- land. A. W. Elphick.— We leam from Messrs. Hurst and Son of the death of Mr. A. W. Elphick, their oldest traveller, who entered their service in 1880. Mr. Elphick had at- tained the age of seventy-four years, and was engaged in his duties until within a few days of his death. Previous to his entering the service of Messrs. Hurst and Son, he was for a time with Messrs. J. Carter and Co. One of his sons has represented Messrs. Hurst and Son for twenty-five years, and is well known in the Eastern Counties. Trade is not quite so good. The consignments are fairly large, and prices remain unaltered. Edward J Neirhorn. Corenl Garden and St. Pancras, February IS, 1915. LorrtepondmU Abnormal Growth on Vine Stem : -V. Z. The excrescences on the vine stem consist of bark? and are the result of partial removal of or in- jury to the inner bark, thus preventing a con- tinuous passage of the sap. Possibly the mis- chief was done in the act of peeling and scrap- ing. Or the application and penetration of p. strong alkali wash to the inner bark, after de- nuding it of its natural and necessary covering, might produce a like result. Crickets in Greenhouses : F. C. W. A simple and effective method of exterminating these pests is to place a mixture of fresh beer and treacle in the bottom of a glass jam jar to the depth of about an inch, and plunge the jar to the neck on a level with the border or walk. As an alternative bait use a small quan- tity of sweet oil. Frequently change the treacle-beer and the oil, as neither is attractive to the insects when rancid. In stokeholds and places not frequented by children or animals you may employ a mixture of bread and white arsenic," using one ounce of the latter materiel to one pound of the former. The poisoned bait may be sprinkled about the haunts of the crickets. It is advisable to adopt all three methods, and if you persist the crickets will in time be exterminated. Names of Fruit : C. If. 1, Newton Wonder : 2, Golden Russet; 3, Prince Bismarck; 4, Gooseberry Apple ; 5, Adams's Pearmain ; 6, Blenheim Pippin.— Dr. H. E.. Durham. We do not recognise the Apple. It is most likely a local variety. Names of Plants : .1. B. Ii. Azara integrifolia. —Jumbo. 1 and 6, Abies Nordmanniana ; 2, too withered to identify, probably Picea sitchensis ; 3, Pseudo-tsuga Douglasii ; 4, P. D. var. vera ; 5, Picea Morinda ; 7, P. orientalis ; 8 Berberis stenophylla ; 9, Thuya plicata ; 10, Cupressus nootkatensis ; Nos. 1 and 6 are badly infested with scale and coccus, and the trees should be syringed with a solution of soft soap and paraffin at" intervals of a fortnight from now to the middle of April, choosing dull weather for the operation.— iV. D. 1, Thuya plicata ; 2, Cupressus Lawsoniana ; 3, C. L. var ochroleuca; 4, Tsuga canadensis (Hem- lock Spruce) ; 5, probably Carpentena cah- fornica; send when in flower. — 'J'. A. B. Peta- sites fragrans (Winter Heliotrope). Perpetual-flowering Carnations : G. J. The following varieties would be suitable for your purpose : — (White) White Wonder and White Enchantress; (scarlet) Scarlet Glow and Britannia; (pink) Enchantress Supreme and Lady Northcliffe. Communications Beceiyed.-W G.— W. S. Subscriher-A. T. H.-T. H.-C. W.-F. W. J.-F. H.- G g q w — L S — * C. H.— B. P. P. — W. P. — W T— W. J. T.— E. J.— H. J. T.— D. Y. D.— E. de M.— EM H-F (i B-A. S.-W. B.-W. IL N.-C. H. P. 1 w A~A. C. P.-R. W. W-F A V-W T- J S ft Co.. New York— C. F.— E. M.— E. A.— J. B.— R. T. & S.— V. G. February 27, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 107 THE No. 1,470.— SA TUB DA Y% FEBBUAUY 27, 1915. CONTENTS. Orchid notes and glean- ings 1(8 Plants, new or note- worthy— Larix olgensis . . .. 100 "Pour nos amis fran^-ais Applet ami Plums, self- rooting . . . . . . 115 Apples, spotting in .. 115 Bouks, notices of- Botanical Magazine .. 113 Bordeaux mixture in Italy 113 Copper sulphate for French farmers . . 109 Crickets in glass-houses 115 Farm's, Mr. .Reginald, explorations in China 100 Florists' flowers — Late-rooted Chrysan- themums .. .. 108 Sweet Peas under glass 10S Food supply, the . . 115 Forbes, Edward, centen- ary of 112 Holly epiphytic upon Cedar 115 Leeds Rhubarb industry 113 Longevity of seeds . . 115 Alarket fruit garden, the 107 New Zealand plants for American gardens . . 112 ILLUSTRATIONS. Brasso-Cattleya Cliftonii albens. (Supplementary illus- tration.) Codlin Moth, the 118 Cymhidium Schlegelii Fowler's variety 108 Larix olgensis 109 THE MARKET FRUIT GARDEN. et beiges" Pyracantha coccinea 114 115 Rosary — Roses for Canada 108 Russian Apples Seeds and manures for Spain Shadwell Park 115 113 113 Societies — Horticultural Club . . Manchester and North of England Orchid . . National Hardy Plant Ulster Horticultural.. 116 116 116 117 Tree medicine 113 War items 113 Week's work, the 110 HI Winter spraying.. 115 Deferred Cutting Back. OF three rows of James Grieve Apples planted in the autumn of 1911 one was cut back just after the planting, one in the follow- ing April, and the third in April, 1912. They were chosen as being as closely alike as three rows could be. At the present time there is not any very striking difference of growth between the trees, which have not yet been pruned this season. On the whole, the trees pruned in the April following the planting are the best grown. Several witnesses who have been asked for their opinion, without being told of the difference in the treatment, have been unanimous in that judgment. The superiority, however, is not very great, because the trees not cut back until the second season were rigorously dealt with if they needed severe pruning, as many of them did. Branches were cut off below Bpit-buds, which had developed to an extent that would have dwarfed the trees if they had been left. Herein lies the great danger of re- commending growers to defer the cutting back, as too many would be likely to shrink from the necessary severity of treatment. Moreover, one reason why the trees cut back in the April after planting are better furnished than those left un- cut for another year is that many of the trees — all two years old — had strong central shoots when planted. These were cut out of the fomier row if there were vigorous side shoots ; otherwise they were topped, so that they would send out good side-shcots, existing weak laterals being cut off or greatly shortened. This desirable treatment had to be deferred for a year in the case of the other iow of trees, to their disadvantage. As in an earlier trial, this experiment indicates that the BMerring of cutting back to the second season is objectionable. It may be worth while to add that the bulk of the trees were cut back in the February after planting, and these are as well grown as those cut back in April. Does It Pay to Box Apples? This question on the present occasion is limited to the boxing of selected dessert fruits in boxes holding one dozen. The answer depends upon nrciinislances., and is not to be made off-hand. In the first place, it does not pay to box ordinary dessert Apples, such as Mr. Gladstone, Worces- ter Pear-main, or King of the Pippins, because the return is not sufficient to cover the extra ex- penses as compared with those of selling in half- sieves. At first sight any one would be apt to suppose that even a shilling per dozen for choice Apples would pay handsomely. This, however, is not the case ; and, if the fruit is of somewhat large size, it is doubtful whether the boxing of any variety that will sell at Is. 6d. per dozen pays at that price. Apart from the extra ex- pense of boxing there is deterioration in the value of the firsts by taking the best for the boxes. The remunerativeness of boxing depends partly upon the price per box made, partly upon the proportion of perfect Apples in the firsts, and partly upon the extent of the deterioration of the firsts caused by boxing. Now, I have worked out the results of boxing in various circum- stances, and I present one detailed account, to show how considerable are the expenses of boxing, while only summaries are given in other instances. My Cox's Orange Pippins weighed 3g lbs. per dozen net, and were as big as they could be for twelve to go in an ordinary dozen box. Most of the firsts made 6s. per half-sieve of 20 lbs., while a small proportion made 7s., in both cases, of course, witli rail and market expenses to come off. But for the purposes of my account I am assuming the firsts to be worth 6s. per half-sieve, without taking any boxing Apples out of them, boxed fruit 2s. per dozen, and the deterioration of the firsts through taking all perfect Apples out to be 2s. per half-sieve. Taking two lots of twenty half-sieves each, I show the result of selling one lot as they stood as compared with selling half the other lot in half-sieves and the rest in boxes on the assumption of the deterioration named : — All Sold in Baskets. £ s. .1. 20 halves at 6s 600 Rail (2s. 10d.), commission (5s.), toll (Is. 8d.) ..096 Net i eturn 5 10 i ; Profit on Boxins 12 1 £6 12 7 Half Sold in Baskets and Half in Boxes. £ s. d. £ s. d. 10 halves at 4s 200 Rail (Is. /id.), commission [2s. 6d.), toll (lOd.) 049 1 15 3 61J boxes at 2s 630 Kail (2s. 2d.), commission (12s.), toll (Is.), boxes and packing (10s. 6d.) 1 5 s 4 17 4 Net return £6 12 7 At 3^ lbs. of Apples per box there are 61^ boxes in 10 half-sieves. The commission on boxed fruit at 10 per cent, is much greater in pro- portion than on the Apples in baskets. Toll is Id. per package, and there are five boxes in a package. The return is a favourable one in re- lation to boxing, because it is seldom that half the firsts are perfect enough for boxes. Boxe6 are charged at l^d. each, but wTould cost mere, carriage paid, now that wood has gone up greatly in price. A halfpenny per box is for Aspen wood wool, tissue, and extra time in packing. If the boxes of selected Apples referred to above had been sold at Is. 6d. each, the de- terioration of firsts being still 2s. per half-sieve, there would have been a loss of 5s. lOd. on the hoxing. If only one-fourth of the firsts had been good enough for boxing the deterioration of the rest would probably have been no more than Is. per half-sieve. Then if the boxes had been 6old at Is. 6d. each there would have been a loss of Rs. 8d. on boxing. If half had been boxed at Is. 6d., with deterioration only Is. per half- sieve, there would have been a gain of 4s. 2d. on boxing; but the deterioration caused by taking half for the boxes could hardly be as little as Is. My conclusion is that it does not pay to box choice dessert Apples at Is. 6d. per dozen. This conclusion covers Beauty of Bath, which I have sometimes boxed, as well as Cox's Orange. Em- phatically it would also apply to Charles Ross, because of the extra weight of a dozen of that variety, which would require a larger box. Spraying Experiments. In the Journal of the Board of Agriculture for January Mr. F. R. Petheybridge, M.A., reports some experiments carried out on Apple and Plum trees in 1913 for preventing attacks of the Apple sucker and the leaf-curling Plum aphis. It is curious that, while several of the washes contained lime and sulphur, with or with- out other ingredients, in no case were the pro- portions those which effect the most complete combination. The proper proportions are two parts of flowers of sulphur to one part of lime, boiled together for about an hour. Instead 150 lbs. of lime to 100 lbs. sulphur in two cases and 117 lbs. of lime and 92 lbs. of sulphur in one case were used. Thus_ in no case had a proper solution of lime-sulphur a trial. The two ingredients were used by themselves in only one wash, while salt was added to them in three cases; and other washes consisted of lime and salt ; lime, salt and waterglass ; and lime, salt and washing soda. The excess of lime in the lime-sulphur rendered the wash less adherent than a proper mixture would have been, and the addition of salt, waterglass, or washing soda would soften the deposit and render it easy for rain to wash it off. The only considerable reduc- tion of Apple sucker attack was on plots sprayed so late that the buds were scorched, probably by the salt which was in all the late-used mixtures. The repo.'t says that the fruiting of the trees was not affected by the scorching; but no one should tolerate the scorching of buds. It is admitted that the spraying was not a com- mercial success for the prevention of sucker attack. On the other hand, on all the sprayed plots the attack of leaf-curling Plum aphis was much less than on the untreated plots. There is, however, no differentiation as to the results of the several spray mixtures in this respect in the report. Nor is there any suggestion as to how such reductions in attacks of sucker and aphis as are noted were effected. No actual evidence of the destruction of the eggs of either pest by any spray mixture has yet been forthcoming, and the idea that by coating over the eggs some of them are prevented from hatching is only a surmise. Possibly a 6pray mixture, if it sticks on the trees long enough, may act as a disguster to the insects. The best chance of success is to spray just before the buds burst, which would be much later for Apples than for Plums. In the trials under notice both were sprayed on March 1 to 12. I have used lime-sulphur of full winter strength when buds were on the point of bursting, with- out doing any harm to the trees. But although I have found sucker eggs in abundance on Apple trees year after year, I have never found any considerable number of aphis eggs. This season, while pruning Apples, I have found only cue shoot covered with aphis eggs, and yet experi- ence leads me to expect aphis attack more or less serious. As to Plums, the trees have ben carefully inspected year after year in February or March without finding any aphis egg* ir mother-queens worth the slightesl notice, but in spite of spraying with caustic soda, lime- sulphur, or lime, the leaf curling aphis has been common in my Plum orchards. .1 Southern t,' i ower. 108 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 27, 1915. ORCHID NOTES AND GLEANINGS. FLORISTS* FLOWERS. BRASSO-CATTLEYA CLIFTONII ALBENS. (See Supplementary Illustration.) The supplementary illustration represents a flower of the charming white Brasso-Cattleya, in the collection of J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Brackenhurst, Tunbridge Wells. It was obtained by crossing Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-Mossiae var. Queen Alexandra and Cattleya Trianae alba, both practically albinos, a character which has been handed on in the hybrid except for a slight pink flush on the petals, especially on the reverse side. The flower is especially good in shape, a quality which may be traced to Brasso-Cattleya Digbyano-Mossiae, the flowers of which are the most perfectly formed of all Brasso-Cattleyas. The original form is also of fine shape, and has a ruby-red blotch on the lip. The reputation of this fine Orchid as a beautiful winter and early spring flowering hybrid is well established. CYMBIDIUM SCHLEGELII FOWLER'S VARIETY. The many hybrids of C. insigne are so beauti- ful and the plants which bear the flowers so LATE-ROOTED CHRYSANTHEMUMS. A few years ago it was almost necessary to propagate many of the Japanese varieties of Chrysanthemums in November or early Decem- ber to secure high-quality blooms for exhibi- tions, for certain of these old sorts were rather late in flowering. But many of the better varie- ties of the past few years develop early flowers on first-crown buds, and more paiticularly in gardens in the south and Midlands, hence the necessity for varying the date of propagation. I find that plants rooted in February are, in many instances, far preferable for the produc- tion of high-class blooms than those propagated earlier, for the latter have to be stopped to secure blooms at a later date than those from natural first-crown buds. Not that there is a vast difference in the date of blooming between plants struck in December and February ; it probably only amounts to be- tween seven and fourteen days, but this is. often suificient for the purpose one has in view. Cut- tings inserted at about this date should be grown in slightly more warmth, and they naturally need more attention to prevent them from flag- ging until they are rooted, but a judicious use of the 6yringe or sprayer should keep them Fig. 50. — cymbidium schlegelii fowler's variety. (R.H.S. Award of Merit, February 16. 1915.) ornamental, even when not in bloom, that it is no reproach to any of them to say that there is great resemblance between them, even when very distinct species are used as the other parent. C. Schlegelii (fig. 30), which through C. Wigamanum has C. eburneum and C. Tracy- anum blood in it, was Taised by Messrs. J. and A. McBean, of Cooksbridge, who secured an Award of Merit for the plant at the R.H.S. meeting on January 23, 1912. Several varieties have been shown at the meetings of the Royal Horti- cultural Society this year, and all of them have attracted considerable attention. The present foTm, shown by J. Gurney Fowler, Esq., Brackenhurst, Tunbridge Wells (gr. Mr. J. Davis) is the fourth to receive the R.H.S. Award of Merit, and our illustration shows one of the numerous fine flowers of the imposing spike. The flowers, which are wax-like in substance, are blush-white with fine lines of pale rose- purple on the segments and claret markings on the lip, the arrangement of which closely ap- proaches C. Tracyammi. This and others of its class are very desirable garden plants, for they are. easily cultivated, and are admirable subjects for the warm greenhouse, conservatory or inter- mediate Orchid house. Singles and decorative varieties mate as good plants, if rooted at or about this date, as at any other time, and when, they are well rooted they may be potted direct and grown in cold frames. By this means there will be a saving of time and the trouble of shifting them from warm to cold frames will be obviated. SWEET 1-EAS UNDER GLASS. The days are lengthening and the extra sun- light has a great effect on plants under glass, in- cluding Sweet Peas, which should be shifted into their flowering pots or quarters. The grower who specialises in Sweet Peas will probably have taken time by the forelock and finished most if not all of the work of potting or plant- ing ; but where the glasshouses have been uti- lised for other subjects there is sometimes a difficulty in getting the plants potted before this date owing to lack of room. But one week late with the potting may make all the difference between success or failure with these flowers, especially when the blooms are grown for market. I have on many previous occasions pointed to the necessity of potting the plants in soil that is not too rich in m." .are, though the plants at a later stage need a richer compost. A mixture of rich loam, a little well-decayed manure, bone-meal or bone-flour and ,-.«n may le supple- mented with some fairly well dried s,. ..;• hops. A compost of this nature at the proper degree of moisture should prove a splendid rooting medium. The grower should treat the plants with the object of obtaining a good root-system at the start, as this is necessary to success. Top growth will develop quickly enough a little later. Firm potting is essential, and the degree of firm- ness will depend on the nature of the soil and the amount of moisture it contains. It will be well to place sticks in position for supports before the shoots grow very long. Sweet Peas grow best in a moist atmosphere when there is plenty of light and warmth, but at this season much atmospheric moisture is not necessary; indeed, a close, humid atmosphere now is harmful, for it will cause growth to be attenuated. A temperature of 45° to 50° at night with a few degrees' rise during the day is suitable, and there should be sufficient venti- lation to keep the air in the house moving. The smaller the house the greater is the need for air as the temperature in a small house is apt to rise very quickly at this season through bursts of sunshine. The novice should bear in mind that some of the varieties that " burn " out-of-doors are very suitable for cultivation under glass ; those of orange and salmon shades do particu- larly well in glasshouses. Thomas Stevenson. plump without having to resort to dense shad- ing. The ideal cutting for inserting at. this or any other time should be a shoot of only mode- rate strength and fairly hard or wiry ; those of great size with coarse leaves are much longer in rooting, and the chances are that the haves will be lost, before the young plants are well estab- lished. Varieties that do well when propagated now include Lady Talbot, F. S. Vallis. William Turner, Kara Dow, Mrs. R. Luxford, William Vert, Mrs. J. Gibson, Miss Alice Finch, D. B. Crane, Japan, Reginald Vallis, Eclipse, Amy Poulton, Miss Gladys Herbert, Francis Jolliffe, Bob Pulling, Master Rex, Mrs. C. Farrar, Mrs. A. T. Miller, White Queen, Hon. Mrs. John Ward, His Majesty, Mrs. E. A. Tickle, Master James, Mr. W. E. Tricker and Mrs. G. Lloyd Wigg. Most of these varieties will, if first crown buds are taken, without any stopping whatever, produce excellent blooms. But the plants must not receive a check during the growing season. Good flowers may be obtained from plants rooted much later, and even in the montli of May, but these come under the category of single-stemmed plants, whilst those I am dealing with may be allowed to carry two, three, or four blooms at the discretion of the grower. THE ROSARY. ROSES FOR CANADA. Mr. Macoux, the Dominion Horticulturist, has issued a pamphlet (No. 9) on Hardy-Rose Culti- vation in Canada. The precise title is " Kardy Rose Culture . . .," but Mr. Macoun will, we hope, forgive us if we insist on the use of the word cultivation, and advocate the abandon- ment of the misuse of the word culture in re- lation to horticultural practice. In the pamphlet attention is drawn to the fact that Canadians need by no means despair of growing Roses provided that they will grow the right kinds. Thus Rosa rugosa and its hybrids, Austrian Briars, Provence Roses, Damask and Moss Roses may be grown in many parts of Canada with little or no protection. In second degree of hardiness stand H. P. s. Climbing Multi- floras and Dwarf Polyanthas. Less hardy than these are H.T.s, and least hardy of all as tested in Canada are tho Teas. The pamphlet concludes with a list of the varieties which have demonstrated their hardi- ness during a trial of 21 years in the Rose garden of the Central Experimental Farm at Ottawa. Supplement to the "Gardeners' Chronicle. [Photograph by It. A. Ualby. Brasso-Cattleva Cliftonii ALBENS. (Awarded R.H.S. F.C.C. on January 19, 1915.) Printed by"love A MrIcoiiisoii, ttd., 1/indon, W.C. February 27, 1915.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 109 NEW OR NOTEWORTHY PLANTS. A NEW SPECIES OF LARCH. In the Kew herbarium there are two or three twigs with leaves and cones o£ a peculiar Larch, gathered in 1860 by Maxiniowicz on the shores of Olga Bay, about 12J miles north-east of Vladivostock, in the maritime province of East- ern Siberia. This Larch was labelled Larix sibirica by Maximowicz; but is remarkably dis- tinct, having different branchlets, leaves and cones, and, moreover, occupies an isolated dis- trict, far removed from the region inhabited by the well-known Siberian Larch. It is readily distinguishable from all the species hitherto pub- lished, and will now be described (fig. 31) as a new species, Larix olgensis.* A tree, of which little is known concerning habit or dimensions, unique amongst the genus in having reddish-brown, slender young branch- lets, densely covered with long hairs, traces of which remain on the greyish, older twigs ; lateral buds shining dark brown. Short shoots, slender, conic, with similar buds, fringed around the base when opening with reddish-brown hairs. Leaves, short and slender, not exceeding % inch long and 0.025 inch wide, curved, rounded at the apex, convex above, deeply keeled be- neath, with one stomatic line on each side of the keel. Microscopic seetiont (fig. 32) shows afibro- vascular bundle, circular, with scattered wood- cells : hypoderm of thick-walled cells, continuous under the epiderm all round. Resin-canals pre- sent in leaves of the long shoots, large, placed more inwards than usual in the genus, being separated from the epidermis by two layers of thick-walled hypoderm. Leaves of the short shoots, with rudimentary or obsolete resin-canals, differing also from the leaves of the long shoots in being slightly deeper in proportion to their width and without stomatic lines above. Cones 0.6 — 0.8 inch long, 0.5 — 0.6 inch wide when closed, with the exserted tips of the bracts visible between the scales, which are 20 to 30 in number, in 4 to 6 rows, 0.3 inch wide and slightly less long, reniform-orbicular, entire and rounded at the upper margin, covered externally with a dense minute pubescence. Bract 0.2 inch long, oblong, but widest at the base, truncate at the apex with a minute mucro. Seed with wing i inch long ; body 0.1 inch long, marbled grey on the surface next the scale, shining dark brown on the other surface ; wing short, brown, broadest towards the base. The description of this Larch is mainly drawn up from a few twigs with cones, which were sent home by Capt. Clinton-Baker, R.N., in 1911, with the note : " The only conifer at Olga and Vladimir Bays, all nearly cut down for timber." It is possible that this Larch extends further inland and to the northward : but Komarov, who confused it with L. sibirica, states that it is only found on the shores of Olga Bay, and quotes a letter written by Maximowicz . " Common on the east coast of the great bay, forming an open wood on rocky ground in mix- ture with Quercus mongolica and Betula Ermani. Trees often occur up to a foot in diameter, with very brittle, wide - spreading gnarled branches." The district where this Larch occurs is on the continental coast immediately opposite Yezo. It is characterised by a severe climate, the average annual temperature being only 40° F., with an * Lctrix oJnenniit, A. Henry, sp. nova. Larix sdbirica, Maximowicz, ex M.S. in herbai'io (non I.edebnur): Masters, rajaurn. Linn. Sec. (fiot.), XVIII . 523 (ex parte) ; Komarov, Fl. Mamliurinj; I., 104 (1901); Patschke, in Enjrler, Bol. Jahrb., XI.vin.. 002(1913). Arliur, incola Sibiriae orientalis ad sinum Olgensem : rainnlis dense nifn-pubeseentibiis; foliis graeilibus brevibus, 1-2 cm. longis ; conis parvis, lj-2 cm. longis: sipiamis, 20-30, Orbiculatis, marline integro, dense puberulis ; bracteis brevioribus, exsertis. t The microscopic details, diagram and photograph, are due to Mr. M. O'Beirne, research scholar in Forestry at tlie Roy. Coll. Science, Dublin. average summer temperature of 68c F., while the sea, though not actually frozen over in the winter, is often coated with ice near the shore. Reclus, Now. Ceog. Univ. VI., 835 (1881), states that the temperature at Olga rises in August sometimes to 96° F. The climate appears to be an extreme one ; and in all probability this Larch would be of no economic value in this country ; but seeds ought to be obtained, as it possibly might thrive high up in the mountains. A. Henri/. MR Fig. 31. — larix olgensis. 1, Cone ; 2, outer side of scale ; 3, inner side of scale ; 4, bract ; 5, seeds ; 6, current year's twig ; 7, second year's twig (all life-size). OLGENSIS Fig. 32. — larix olgensis. a, Cross-section of leaf of long shoot ; B, cross- section of leaf of short shoot ; R, r, resin- canal well developed in the former ; Q, q, obsolete resin-canal in the latter ; s, stomatic opening; E, epidermis; H, hypoderm; v. fibro-vascular bundle (al! highly magnified). Copper Sulphate for French Farmers.— Copper sulphate is very scarce in France owing to the war, and French farmer*:, who employ the material extensively as a fungicide, are feeling the shortage. T.hey have appealed to M. Delcasse, Minister for Foreign Affairs, and he has arranged with the British Government for a supply to be exported' to France. Applications for consignments must be forwarded through the French Embassy in London. REGINALD FARRER'S EXPLORATIONS IN CHINA.* Prefatory Letter. Before returning with my readers to the up- most Alps of Thibet I feel bound to notice a well meant but ill-judged letter in the Gar- deners' Chronicle of October 3 last, which almost openly accuses me of burking the credit of my companion, Mr. Purdom, and claiming as mine an expedition really belonging more properly to him. The accusation is false, the insinuation grotesque. I call the expedition mine because it so is — planned and arranged by me, and joined by Mr. Purdom on my invitation. These facts I had judged to be common knowledge to every- one interested in my Chinese travels: I did not see and do not see any reason for making my published articles a puffing advertisement of either my companion or myself. My own work may not deserve such : Mr. Purdom's 6tands above need of it. I choose, if you please, my own time and methods for making something like an adequate acknowledgment of all that my expedition owes to this famous collector, whose services to horticulture notoriously stand high, among the highest. Meanwhile I leave the matter, protesting most strongly as I close against so wholly misleading a statement as that Mr. Purdom "has previously explored much of the ground already covered " — a quite untrue remark and calculated seriously to depreciate the value of our exolorations, such as it may prove. Reginald Farrer. VIII.— THE HIGHEST ALPS. Fold over fold the vast green downs overlap and overlap far into the fringes of Thibet. They are on a scale so huge that their size ceases to be perceived, and on the one side they are uni- formly sombre with forest, and on the other uniformly green with the richest hay of Asia. This is all a houseless No Man's Land ; beyond there lies the territory of the Bad People, away over the Stone Mountains, from which they some- times come raiding across the border — a displeas- ing race, with dark faces and hideously deformed skulls, who come creeping upon their bellies like cats in the dark of the dawn, and nave an un- popular weakness for building up their captives alive in a damp bonfire. These tribes being on the raid at the time of our travels, great excite- ment was felt along the Border, and many diplomacies were deployed to prevent our adven- turing into the huge heart of No Man's Land within reach of the Wicked Ones. Finally, how- ever, as nothing prevailed against us, we must at least have an escort. So an escort of some forty- odd jolly people accompanied us far and far up the course of a clear river, winding in the depths amid the hills. They came carolling like great birds, hopping gleefully again and again through the Tiver — a jovial crew of every age from 6 to 60, clothed in what looked like derelict sacking and armed with prehistoric arquebuses on prongs. So we came at last to a little grassy glen, up off the main track, hidden at its debouchure by brushwood, and here we pitched our many tents and wove all round the camp a high zareba of boughs, and made bonfires, and appointed watches and stations of defence, and cut down all the covering bushes on the slopes that might in the dusk of the moon conceal or simulate the approach of a crouching Tepo. It was a strange Homeric life for a while, to wake at night en- vironed by the hush and mystery of the glen, with the camp fires burning in the centre of little knots of talk and laughter, amid the vast and everlasting silence of those empty Alps. High above rose a great, grassy ridge to some 12,000 feet. Up this, on promise of a fine day, I adventured with two retainers. Needless to say, it ere long rained inexorably — a fine Scotch rain that mad" thi> long hay-grass "" better than a bath to penetrate, lip we toiled, and up ; no * The previous articles by Mr. farrer "ere published in ..ur Issues I'n September i> i M), October 17 and 31, November 1 1 and 28, mu, ami January '-, kh5. 110 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 27, 1915. words, no amount of experience even, can ever suggest the scale on which these Thibetan Alps are built, and the hour of steady climbing that it takes from cliff to cliff that from below had seemed mere boulders within stone's throw of each other. In the rocks theTe were only such stale and trifling toys as Isopyrum grandi- florum and Primula flava. Upwards we as- cended, through dense depths of Lousewort, saf- fron or crimson, to where, amid the purple Asters, all the huge green slopes were freckled with the blood-blots of Meconopsis punicea. Now we came at last to the final pull, up 3,000 feet or so of shorter grass on a steep and pitiless slope, all iridescent and bejewelled with the rain. The herbage was sparkling with many crowded delights. Primula Purdomii was rare and over, so was P. Maximowiczii ; P. tangu- tica was commoner and near its end ; but amid the Asters, Saxifrages of pale gold, blue Gentians, silver Edelweiss made a mosaic of colour. In the shingle-shoots, too, abounded a Primula of rare beauty— a so far unplaced cousin of P. sibirica, but with fewer larger flowers (of round, comfortable face and gentlest pink) on shorter scapes from a much smaller crown, the scapes being always farinose and the leaves always dentate. This lovely apparition, not con- tent with hovering over the shingle slides, soon overflowed into the now fine grass on either side, and, with Allium kansunense's Bluebell-soft heads, added another note to the crowded chaos of colours, almost confusing in their glory under the grey light of the pervasive rain. And then, among these suddenly a fresh tone — a great bent flower, rain-laden and heavy, like a gigantic specimen of the purple Anemone coro- naria. It was another new Meconopsis (new, at least, to Jedde, for I do not know the diagnosis of M. Wardii). Like the last, it belongs to the biennial Primulina group ; but, leaving to the last its monopoly of small and dainty grace, this one stands pre-eminent in grandeur and opu- lence. Few and small are the leaves, all at the base, glaucescent, narrow, almost hairless ; the naked scape is invariably solitary, and invariably carries only one very large flower with six, seven, or eight very broadly ovate rhomboidal, crimply petals of rich lavender-purple. The solitary Im- perial eye of colour at the top of each stout scape of 6 to 10 inches reminded me of the "solitary eye " which blind old Oedipus said they had torn from him when they took away Antigone ; accordingly, until it is put in its place or more authoritatively and illustriously named, I think of this treasure as Meconopsis Psilonomma. It seems a rare plant : never again on any of the Thibetan downs did I see it, and on this huge ridge of several miles only on this one particular slope. It begins about the upper limit of M. punicea at some 11,000 feet and ascends in the fine turf to the gaunt topmost ridge at 12.000, where it stands gorgeous from the broken tus- sooky ledges, in and out amid the browning "cushions of Rhododendron, making M. quin- tuplinervis here look but a poor starved anaemic Cinderella. That M. Psilonomma may burst ere long upon the world I have my hopes : also I have in situ photographs of its glory that I keep as yet for a riper occasion and a tan- talised judgment, for who will dare send photo- graphs, no matter how beautiful, to an Editor who is apt to declare that they " leave much to be desired " ? Long before we reached the topmost ridge, however, we were in the cloud and the Poppy gleamed rich in the pallid darkness. Thither and hither I roamed the arete in the gloom ; up and down it undulated, and in and out most bewil- deringly, till finally, wishing to descend to camp again, I made a firm attempt to do so on the wrong side of the mountain. The crest held nothing new ; I am puzzled as to a small, frail Primula that here seems to replace No. 2 of the southerly ranges and offers little suggestion of relationship to P. cognata in any of its diverse forms. On this tiny, single rosette, however. and rare little scape of an inch or so, judgment must be suspended. Otherwise the rocks, the gaunt brown turf, the shingle-slides held nothing startling to eyes long jaded by the celestial maces of Meconopsis rudis, like little pillars of dawn against the shingle. Isopyrum was in all ths rocks and a frigid Gentian, and one tuft of a flowerless Porphyrian Saxifrage, not yet ripe inside ; but the one beauty occurred here at one point only — a golden massed Potentilla that shall be more fully dealt with elsewhere in better form. So at last, hopeless of a meeting in the mi6t and cut to the bone by the shrilling Alpine wind that lashed me with the fine wire of the rain along the summits, 1 turned to descend again, and to camp returned at last, accom- panied to my very tent-door by the too- persistent tears of Heaven. Reginald Farrer. The Week's Work. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By John Dunk, Foreman. Royal Gardens, Windsor. Carrots in Pits. -Carrots growing in pits should be ventilated freely and those sown broadcast thinned to 3 inches apart as soon as they are large enough for the operation. After thinning the plants water the bed carefully to settle the soil about the roots. Slugs must be kept in check, using soot or lime as a deterrent ; the pests may also be caught and destroyed if a careful examination is made either late at night or very early in the morning. If a warm border is available sow seeds of an early variety out-of- doors as soon as the soil is dry enough for work- ing. Early Gem and Early Scarlet Horn are two good varieties for this purpose. Cucumbers.— If seeds were sown early in January the seedlings should be ready for plant- ing. Let the house be cleansed thoroughly and the walls washed with hot lime. A little sulphur should be burned in the house to make quite certain that all insect pests arc destroyed. When the hot-bed has been made to within 2 feet of the roof-glass place small mounds of soil in position and allow the material to become warmed through before setting the plants. A few holes may be made in each mound to pre- vent overheating. Syringe the foliage several times daily with clear, soft water, and maintain a night temperature of 70° while the weather remains mild. Plants from which Cucumbers are being cut should be top-dres6ed lightly as often as the young roots push through the sur- face, in order to promote healthy growth. Very little stopping of the shoots will be necessary now, but all decaying foliage and deformed fruits should be removed. When moisture is necessary use weak liquid manure wrarmed to a temperature of 70°. The ventilators should he opene'd a little way in bright weather, but the foliage must not be exposed to cold draught or mildew may prove troublesome. Another sowing should be made in small, clean pots, with a view to producing plants for successional fruiting. cut away. Pans are better for these Orchids than ordinary flower-pots, and they should be filled the greater part of their depth with material for drainage, as Coelogyne only needs a shallow rooting medium. The compost should consist of Osmunda-fibre, Peat, and Sphagnum-] moss in equal parts, but instead of the Osmunda- iibre some growers use rich, fibrous loam. In remaking the plants into specimens arrange the leads or growing points evenly, and m such a I manner so that the centre of the plant is welfl furnished, and slightly higher than the sides. When repotting is completed, arrange the plants in a warm, moist house and shade them from strong sunlight until the roots become active. I Light sprayings overhead with tepid water are j beneficial during bright weather. Plants that are not repotted should be examined, and, wherever possible, a little new soil worked amongst the growths ; but care must be taken not to injure the shoots. Place such plants at the cooler end of the Cattleya house, where they may remain throughout the year. When in full growth Coelogynes need copious supplies of I water, but directly the pseudo-bulbs are fully matured the amount must be decreased. The old pseudo-bulbs that have been removed may be used for propagating if it is desired to '. increase the stock. Lay them .on a bed off Sphagnum-moss in the warmest house until the roots grow, when they should be potted either singly, or several together to form a compact specimen. There are other Coelogynes of] horticultural value, and one or more of the] species are in bloom during the greater part of] the year. In these circumstances it is necessary to repot some of them at intervals as the] occasion arises, using a similar mixture to that- advised for C. cristate, A few, such as C] pandurata, C. r.ossinna, C. Massangeana C < tomentosa. C. Dayana, C. asperata (Lowii) and I Micholitzii, require a warm house, while C.» flaccida, C. specinsa, C. intermedia (a hybrid be- tween C. cristate, and C. Massangeana). C- barbata, C. graminifolia and C. ocellata thrive in the intermediate house or in company witn C. cristata. Partial shade is essential, and the supply of water at the roots should be regu- lated in accordance with the season and con] dition of the plants Shading.- The sun's rays are becoming more powerful, therefore it is advisable to have the roof-blinds ready for use. Blinds are usually made either of wood, or No. 5 canvas. The lath wooden blinds are admirably suited for the cool houses and all low structures, but for the Cattleya and Dendrobium houses and lofty structures the canvas is best. The fronts and ends of houses facing west and south must also be shaded, and old blinds are very useful for the purpose. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By T. W. BRISCOE, Gardener to W. R. Lysaght, Esq., Castleford, Chepstow, Gloucestershire. Coelogyne.- C. cristata is the most popular garden species, with its varieties alba and Lemoniana, and during the past few weeks well- grown plants have been covered with flowers. The work of repotting may be done when the flowering is over, but this operation is only necessary at long intervals. Healthy specimens that exhibit no sign of deterioration should not be disturbed for the present, and it is not wise to repot many plants at one time, for they will not produce a full complement of flowers until about two years afterwards. Plants need- ing immediate attention are those that have overgrown their receptacles and have too many back pseudo-bulbs, to the detriment of the lead- ing pseudo-bulbs. Such plants should be turned out of their pots or pans, the old soil and dead roots removed, and the back pseudo-bulbs, with the exception of three behind each new shoot, FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By John Highgate, Gardener to the Marquis of Linlithgow, Hopetoun, South Queensferry, N.B. Successional Vines.- The distribution of the shoots requires constant attention, with the object of covering the trellises fully without in the least causing over-crowding, bearing in mind that good, healthy leaves are to be preferred to weak, spindly growths. As soon as the berries are formed, remove the superfluous bunches, and commence thinning, especially with the free- setting varieties. The vines may be fed liberally, and every means should be taken with the aid of increased sun-heat to hasten the swelling of the berries. The sap of later varieties will soon commence to flow naturally. Therefore, the work of cleansing and training should be com- pleted without delay. Guard carefully against the shoots bleeding. It is generally supposed that bleeding occurs chiefly in vines that hava been pruned late, and also when the wood is not matured. When bleeding occurs the cut sur- face should be dressed with styptic, and mean- time the house should be kept as cool as is consistent with the conditions prevailing. Young vines, when newly started, are also very subject to bleeding, and before it can be thoroughly stopped it may be necessary to dress the cut surfaces several times with the preparation. Young Vines. -Vines that were propagated from eyes rooted in s-nall nots or squares of turf in" December should be transferred to 6- inch pots or planted in bigger turves. The February 27, 1916.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. Ill potting soil should' consist of a mixture of loam, leaf-mould and a quantity of lime rubble or crushed bricks. The roots should be potted moderately firm, afterwards arranging the plants on a bed near to the roof-glass, for they need plenty of light. The temperature snould be maintained at not less than 70°, and during the day time, with ventilation, it may Tise to 85°. Close the house early in the afternoon, and at the same time syringe the plants and damp the walls and paths. Water the roots with extra care until they have grown freely in the fresh soil. Endeavour to secure sturdy, short- jointed growth. With the increased light and sun-heat these young vines will grow rapidly and soon re- quire a shift into larger-sized pots. They may be fruited in pots 10 or 11 inches in diameter. Vines that are rooted in small pieces of turf and intended for planting in the early summer should be placed into fresh turves about 14 inches square, and if they are placed on boards nf a corresponding size they will be the more easily moved when this is necessary. ficial. When the foliage has died down the corms may be lifted, dried, and stored in sand. Anemone coronaria requires much the same treatment. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By A. J. Cobb. Gardener to Reginald Cory, Esq., Duflryn, South Wales. Phlox suffruticosa. — A collection of the best varieties of border Phloxes, ranging in colour from white to violet-blue, presents a beautiful sight when well grown, and to have the plants at their best a border should be devoted to them, preferably with a green background, such as a Yew hedge. Border Phloxes are gross feeders, and should be planted in deep, rich soil. In ideal conditions they will bloom well, with strong, healthy foliage to the ground, but few subjects more resent drought. For convenience in watering the beds or borders should never be raised, but rather be in a slight depression. A good material for incorporating with the soil, in addition to farm-yard manure, is grass from the previous season's mowing, which has been stored in a heap, as this helps greatly to retain moisture. We "save a large quantity of grass for this and similar purposes. Phloxes are easily increased from cuttings inserted in spring. The shoots for the purpose should be 2 inches long, inserted in sandy soil and rooted in a close frame. Another method is to take pieces of strong roots, cut them into g-inch portions, just cover them with soil and grow them in a mild bottom heat. Plants raised in this manner may be planted out when well rooted, and will furnish a succession of fcloom after the older plants are over. Good varieties include Fraulein von Lassberg, Tapis Blanc (white) ; Elizabeth Campbell ; Selma (pink) ; General van Heutz (salmon-scarlet) ; Baron van Dedem ; Coquelicot (orange-scarlet); Iris; Le Mahdi (violet) ; and Eclairmonde (lilac). Salvia fa rin ace a. — This half-hardy annual requires a rich soil to produce fine, long flower spikes, which are not unlike Lavender. Seed should be sown now, and the young plants potted singly into 3-inch pots, transferring them to their flowering quarters in June. Raising Dahlias from Seed.- The first week in March is the best time for sowing Dahlia, seed. The soil for the seed-pan should consist of a mixture of loam, leaf-mould and sand. Germinate the seeds in a temperature of 60° to 70°. When the seedlings have changed leaf prick them out a few inches apart in boxes and grow them near to the roof-glass. They should be sprayed frequently. When ready for transference, pot the plants singly in 4-inch pots, and then treat them similarlv to plants grown from cuttings. Seedling plants grown on without a check and planted out in the first week in June will commence blooming about the middle of August. Ranunculus.- Persian and Turban Ranun- culuses were at one time popular flowers in gardens, but they are not grown so exten- sively as formerly. They both give beautiful flowers, which are useful as cut blooms, and if only for this purpose are worthy of a bed in the reserve garden. The corms m?.\ be planted in well-prepared, rich soil. Plant in drills made 2 inches deep and put the corms 6 inches apart, placing the claws downwards. The plants are much harmed by drought at the roots; water- ing with liquid manure on occasions is bene- THE HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. Hedley Warren, Gardener to the Aston-Clinton Park Estate (the Rt. Hon. Lord Rothschild), Buck- inghamshire). Pruning and Training.— The flower -buds of all kinds of fruit trees are not so forward as usual, but they will be swelling soon; therefore the work of pruning and nailing wall trees, also the regulating and tying of espalier, cordon and other trained trees, should be completed as soon as possible. Head back all newly-planted trees, and fasten standards and other tall trees to stakes. Grafting may soon be commenced. The scions, grafting wax or clay, and everything else used in connection with this operation should be got in readiness. Birds may destroy the buds of Gooseberries and Plums at this season, and, if not checked, cause much mischief in the course of a few days. Protecting the Blossom.— The material for protecting the blossoms of Apricots, Peaches and Nectarines should be got in readiness for use. Some use branches of Fir, Yew, Fern or Broom for the purpose, fastening these to the walls or branches of the tree ; but there is a danger that much of the blossom may be knocked off by them when the wind: is strong. There is another danger in their use, for they exclude light and air from the trees, and, lack- ing these, the bloom or young fruit frequently drops. 'Moreover, they necessitate a loss of time, for fresh evergreens must be obtained each season, and there is the labour of fixing them to the trees and removing them later. Fine shading material or canvas stretched in front of the trees is much better to use and will afford all the protection the trees need ; or two or three thicknesses of common garden netting will answer the purpose, and, at the same time, allow plenty of light and air to reach the trees. Either of these materials repels the force of cold winds and is an effectual protection from frost. In fixing the canvas or nets in position, see that they hang clear of the trees or the fruit-buds may become rubbed off. To prevent this danger place slender poles or bamboo canes from the coping or top of the wall down into the ground at about 4 feet from the wall. The poles should be placed at about 6 feet apart and there should be no sharp edges or splinters on them, or the protective material may become torn. Stout galvanised wire might be substituted for the poles, fixing the bottom end into wooden plugs driven into the ground. After the poles or wires are fixed in position the canvas or nets should be tied to them, beginning; at the top and stretching the material fairly tight to the bottom, but not closer than 3 or 4 inches from the soil to prevent rotting, and allow a current of air to reach the trees. Thick canvas screens are not suitable, especially when they cannot be removed on fine days : they exclude the light and air, both of which are essential to the welfare of the tree, blossoms and young fruits. They are expensive to erect and to keep in repair, be- sides causing trouble in manipulation. They are also objectionable for another reason : after use at night they are generally damp and must be dried or they will rot speedily- To allow them to remain stretched over the trees until perfectly dry would be injurious to the blossom. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By F. Jordan. Gardener to Lady Ntjnburnholme, Warter Priory, Yorkshire. Conservatory Climbers.— Any climbers which have not been pruned and cleansed should be attended to at once. Remove as much of the old soil as can conveniently be displaced without injuring the roots, prick up the hard surface and top-dress with either good peat or loam mixed with bone-meal, according to the class of plant. Afterwards give the roots a good soaking with water. Chrysanthemums.— Plants of large- flower- ing varieties, which have been previousfv potted into 3-inch pots, should be placed in a light pit or cold frame as soon as the roots have got into the fresh soil. Let the plants be exposed to the light and pay careful attention to ventilating the pit or frame, remembering that currents of cold air may cause mildew to appear. Chrysanthemums grow freely at this season of the year and form numerous roots; therefore, delay in potting when the plants are ready for the operation is unwise. For the next potting use a compost consisting of three parts fibrous loam, one of leaf-mould, and one of manure from a spent Muslrroom bed, with a liberal sprinkling of sand, a little soot, and some bone-meal. Crock the nots liberally and pot firmly to encourage a sturdy growth, keeping the structure rather close for a few days. Fumigate lightly or syringe the plants occasion- ally with a weak insecticide to destroy green-fly and other insect pests. Hydrangea hortensis. — Select a few of the stronger and better ripened plants which were rooted last August and pot them into 5-inch pots, using a rich compost : a mixture of two parts loam and one of decayed cow or other animal ma.nure, with a little sand added, is suitable. Water the roots sparingly at first, but as soon as the flowers are developing water freely and give liberal supplies of liquid manure and other stimulants. Old plants that are well established and ripened, may be placed in a tempera- ture of 55° to make large specimens for de- corative purposes. Remove all weak and use- less growths, top-dress the roots with a rich compost, and treat the plants liberallj as they advance in growth. Salvia splendens.— Place old plants in a temperature of 55°, and syringe them freely. When suitable shoots are available, insert cuttings around the edges of 3-inch pots, and place them in a propagating case. When well-rooted the young plants should be potted in 3-inch pots ■ ruled with a mixture of loam, Jeaf-mould and sand in equal proportions. Give them another shift before they become pot-bound, the soil for this potting consisting of loam, with a little dried manure, leaf-mould and sand in pro- portion. Pay careful attention to watering and syringing the plants, using clear soot water once or twice a week later to ward off attacks of red-spider. Seeds may be sown, now, but seed- lings take rather longer to flower than plants raised from cuttings. Germinate the seeds in a temperature of 65° and prick off the seedlings as they become ready, potting them later and treat- ing them as recommended for those raised from cuttings. THE APIARY. By Chloris. Feeding.— The question which no one seems able to answ.er with certainty is, " Does sugar- feeding tend to produce degeneracy in bees?" In this country the most successful beekeepers resort to sugar-feeding (and by sugar I mean pure white cane sugar) as a last necessity. Canadians declare that sugar-feeding in winter and early spring produces no ill results, and they act ac- cordingly. Still, as disease has been so wide- spread in England, beekeepers should make notes of the results of those fed artificially compared with those feeding on Nature's food. This plan spread over a number of seasons should lead to a definite conclusion on this very important and pressing question, which few seem to ask or even bother about. Tenantless Hives. -Those beekeepers who have lost colonies of bees from disease should forthwith remove the hives, if they have not already done so. The hives, if left, will bring trouble, for the bees will find the honey stored there and carry back to their home the germs of disease. The beekeeper may assert that there is no honey in the combs ; that matters little, the disease is there all the same because of the dead bees in and around the hive. Further, these combs will form the receptacles in which the wax moth will lay her eggs later in the sea- son and become the home of a further undesirable pest in owner's apiary as well as for his neigh- bour's. Kemove the int. < ted hives without delay and render them sanitary by washing and paint- ing with a strong solution of Calvert's carbolic No. 5 (one part of carbolic to two of water), and then expnsp to the sunshiue before painting and putting into use again. 112 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [Februakt 27, 1915. APPOINTMENTS FOR MARCH. TUESDAY. MARCH 2— - Roy. Hort, Soc. Corns, meet. (Lectures! at 3 p.m. on " Pressing Flowers to Retain Their Colours," by Dr C F. Fobhergill ; and " Colour Changes in Flowers by the Removal of Sunlight," by Colonel Rawson.) Scottish Hort. Assoc, meet. THURSDAY, MARCH 4— Manchester and N. of Eng. Orchid Soc. meet. Koy. Soc. meet. Linnean Soc. meet. FRIDAY, MARCH 5— Royal Inst, lecture. MONDAY. MARCH 8- ■ United Hort. Ben. & Prov. Soc. Com. meet. B.G.A. (Watford Branch) meet. (Lecture at 7.30 p.m. on •' Roots and their Functions.") TnERSoDyAHortatc.9For 4 0 Blackland .. 4 0- 4 ;t Scotch, Up-'o-date 4 3-4 1! — King Edward t 8- 4 0- quiet and prices air .il I Stocks ni London are mode- \nrhinii, Covent Garden and 118 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [February 27, 1915. THE WEATHER. THE WEATHER IN WEST HERTS. Week ending February %!,. The Deepest Fall of Snow for Six Years.— The first "four days of the past week were warm for the time of year, but after that a change to colder weather took place. The nights were mostly cold, but on no night did the exposed thermometer register more than 13° of frost. The ground is at the present time at about a seasonable temperature, both at 1 foot and 2 feet deep. Rain or snow fell on all but one day, and to the total depth of 1£ inch ; of that amount, nearly half an inch was melted snow. Oh the morn- ing of the 24th inst. the ground was covered with ■snow to the average depth of 4| inches, makijig this the deepest fall of snow here since December 29. 1908. During the week 6£ gallons of rainwater came through the bare soil percolation gauge and 5^ gallons through that on which short grass is growing. Both of these percolation gauges are a yard square and 2J feet deep. The sun shone on an average for 2 hours 41 minutes a day, which is 21 minutes a day longer than is usual at the same period in February. On the first two days the wind was at times high, but during the rest of the week the weather continued unusually calm. The mean amount of moisture in the air at three o'clock in the afternoon fell short of a season- able quantity for that hour by 4 per cent. E. M ENQUIRY. We have a quantity of wild Garlic in a dairy meadow. Will some reader tell me the best and quickest method of eradicating it ' L. S. Alstroemeria : A. ,?., Hounslow. Alstroe- merias which have been wintered in pots and are intended for planting out should be kept in a frost-proof frame or a cool green- house until the risk of severe frost in the open has paesed. A bed should be pre- pared for them consisting of a. good depth of light soil ; later they should be planted out. The roots should be watered sparingly whilst they are growing in pots to keep them plump. In favourable situations Alstroe- merias, if planted deeply in suitable soil, will survive the winter, and such plants are generally much more satisfactory than those wintered under glass. A. aurea is quite hardy. Bees : F . G. B. The Isle of Wight disease is not notifiable. It is a complaint which bee- keepers should fight persistently, for its effects are very disastrous. Complete Manure for a Garden : A. K. II. As you are not permitted to use animal manures for your crops for fear of contaminating the spring used for drinking water, you will have to rely on chemical fertilisers. They should not be used before you have a knowledge of the soil's requirements. We recommend you, therefore, to have the soil analysed by a competent person with a view to seeing what plant foods are deficient. Then you could supply a phosphatic, nitrogenous, or potassic manure as needed. If you do not care to go to this trouble use a complete fertiliser, such as Clay's. In order to provide for a de- ficiency of humus in the soil make full use of such materials as decayed vegetable refuse and leaf-mould. Soot, road-sweepings, lime in any form, and wood-ash would all be valuable to the crops. Grubs in the Soil: Constant Reader. If you will send specimens of the pest for identifica- tion we will endeavour to help you. Loudon's "Dictionary": IP. S. There is apparently some mistake in the title of the book given, as we cannot trace a " dictionary " compiled by Loudon ; do vou refer to his Encyclopaedia of Gardening"! Codlin Moth : Shrub. From the description fur- nished the pest referred to is Carpocapsa pomonella (the Codlin Moth). The insect appears early in June, and the female moth lays one egg in the eye of each fruit within a few days of the falling of the blossom, fix- ing it in the calyx with a gummy seeretion. The caterpillar or grub ha.tches out in little more than one week afterwards, and at once commences to eat its way into' the flesh of the fruit. Later it feeds on the " pips," and causes the fruit to fall. The caterpillars which fall in this manner eventually climb up the stem of the tree, and reaching a crevice in the bark or a sheltered position at the junction of two branches, change into the chrysalis or pupal stage, from which the moths emerge in the following spring. Pre- ventive methods include the putting of obstacles around the stems, such as sacking or haybands, to prevent the caterpillars from climbing into the trees ; the gathering of all attacked fruits directly they fall and before the caterpillars have escaped ; and the spray- ing of trees directly the blossoms have fallen in spring. Place the sacking or haybands around the stems in July, about 1 foot from the ground, and leave until the winter. The It "jsnv-, ■ . .. ;;/■ ■■;*< - raising are this season as numerous as ever, the glasshouses being crowded with the plants to their utmost capacity. The reader may well imagine what a glorious floral effect these houses present just now, when the Prim- ulas are at their best condition. It is astonish- ing how uniform in size, compact in habit, free in blooming, and healthy the plants in this large collection are, pointing not only to care in de- tails of cultivation, but to keeping the strains pure and fixed. There is a glorious uncertainty in plant-breeding, and if we look for improve- ment we must not be disappointed if sometimes the change is in an undesired direction, for it is as easy for plants as for ourselves to slip back into old paths. For that reason the varieties must be watched closely, not only to see if any exhibit improvement, but to eliminate plants that show signs of inferiority. In some cases batches of the same variety obtained from differ- ent sources are grown side by side, and, in The Duchess for instance, there is sometimes a slight difference, although the maTgin is usually not a wide one. Sometimes, as is to be expected in a large collection, a plant shows very remarkable qualities, even if it may not