* UMASS/AMHERST .312066 0333 3061 8 ■*.*—«>. r*^- )IJJJ<>5?^ LIBRARY OF THE MASSACHUSETTS AGRICULTURAL COLLEGE No._ 2.a5ai__ date..3-itq_q._ The Gakdks Jan. 7, ISWl. I The Garden.] Jan. 7, 1869. 3Mf=^^it#.JSt ILLUSTRATED WEEKLY JOURNAL HORTICULTURE IN ALL ITS BRANCHES. FOUNDED BY IV. Bobiunoii, Author of the " Euyliah Flower Garden..^' " You see, sweet maid^ we aarry A gentler scion to the wildest stock ; Aud make conceive a bark of baser kind By bud of nobler race : This is an art Which does mend Nature, — change it rather : but The art itself is nature." Shalcespeare. VOL. LIV.-CHRISTMAS, 1898. LONDON : Oyi-ICE: 37, SOUTHAMPTON STREET, COYENT GATIPEN, W. C. The Gakde.n".] [Jan. 7, 18S9. .5-^ TO THE REV. C. WOLLEY=DOD THE FIFTY-FOURTH VOLUME OF "THE GARDEN Js bcbicatcb, J-r. li , Jiminnii. ISfO. Jan. 7, 1899.] THE GARDEN INDEX. INDEX TO VOLUME LIV. (Illustrations in Italics.) Abelia iiiiiflora, 400 Abutiloii (iokien Fleece, 92, 106; insigne, 432 ; Swiitzi, I.')l ; vexilliirium, 400 ; vitifolium, 78 Abutilons, 432 Acana Buchanani, 258 ; inicrophylla, 190 Acalypha hispida, 190, 258, 520 ; Macfeeana, 186; Sanderiana, 62 Acalyplias, 44 Acantholimon venustum, 72, 129 Acantholimons, propaijating, 346 Acer Juhlkei variegatum, 24!), .'i08 ; Negundo elegans, 210, 508 ; platanoides Sohwedleri, 178 Achimenes, 133 Acineta Barker!, 332 ; Barkeri, 332 ; oolossea, 170 Adiantum Farleyense, 401 ; Faulkneri, 249 Aerides quinqucvulnerum, 174 ; suavissimum, 230 .Kichynanthus speciosus, 202 Agapanthus umbellatus, 261 Agath;va ccvlestis, 519 Agerabum Perle Bleu, 260 Allium kansuense, 51 Almond, the, and its varieties, 122 Alocasia spectabilis, 311 Aloe ciliaris, 539 Alonsoa Warscewiczi compacta, 187 Alstmmeria inodora, 190; pelegrina, 218 AlstriL-merias, 97 Althiea tota alba, 249 AmaryHhi, a seedlinu, 66: Belladonna, the Kew variety, 414; BiJlndoiina ( Keir niriety) and the type, 414 Amaryllises, seedling, 66 America, a note from, 72 Amorpha canescens, 213 Andromedas as pot plants, 476, 518 Androsace lanuginosa, 251, 366, 404 ; sarmentosa, 128 ; sarmiiitosa, 128 Anemone Halleri, 190 ; japoniea, 349 ; j. alba, 112 Anemones, Poppy, in an Irish garden, 126 ; Poppy, in an Irish ijardeii, 126 Angrascum artioulatum, 377 ; bilobum Kirki, 404; citratura, 34 ; seaquipsdale, 512 Anguloa Ruckeri sanguinea, 2 ; uniflora, 175 Anomatheca cruenta, 171, 204, 480, 499, 516 Anthemis styriaca, 333 ; sti/riaca, 3.33 ; tinctoria (C. E. Buxton's variety), 387 Anthurium Lawrencese, 186 Antirrhinum Yellow Prince, 52 Ants, 1 12 ; getting rid of, 122 Apple Albury Park Nonsuch, 430 ; AlUngton Pippin, 255, 365 ; American Mother, 417, 439, 538 ; Ballinora Pippin, 438 ; Baumann's Red Reinette, 357 ; Beauty of Bath, 229, 4.30; Beauty of Stoke, 482; Belle de Pon- toise, 430; Blenheim Orange, 179; BUuhim Ornn'ji , 179 ; Boston Russet, 4S ; Bramley's Seedling, 430, 501 ; Cellini on a wall, 363 ; Chelmsford Wonder, 430 ; Cornish Gilliflower, 439, 461 ; Cox's Pomona, 75 ; Crimson Queening, 75 ; Devonshire (^>uarre^den, 149 ; Duchess of Oldenburg, 256 : Emperor Alexander, 148 ; Empiroi- Akxaiuh I-, 148; French Crab, 503; Gooseberry, 5.35 ; Hambling's Seedling, 430 ; Invincible, 312 ; Irish Peach, 68 ; Kerry Pippin, 194 ; Langley Beauty, 179 ; Langley Pippin, 171 ; London Pearmaiii, 429 ; Lord Derby, 417 ; Maltster, 395, 458, 502, 537 ; Margil, 451S ; May Queen, 538 ; Mclndoe's Russet, 430 ; Mrs. John Seden, 312 ; Newton Wonder, 430 ; Parker's Seedling, 179 ; Rambour Papelon, 430 ; Red Streak, 45J> ; Reinette du Canada, 429 ; Rilp- ston Pippin, 537 ; Royal Jubilee, 502 ; Scarlet Nonpareil, 194 : Stirling Castle, 1 ; The San- dringham, 68, 430 ; Tyler's Kernel, 416, 5.38 ; Warner's King, 119; Warner'-: King, 119;; Wealthy, 430 : '\ellow Ingestre, 227 ' Apple crop in 1808, 24 ; culture near London, 120 ; the common Crab, in the shrubbery, 358 ; trees blighted, 2, .•j!13 Apples at Madres6cld Court, 256 ; at llougham Hall, 181 ; ))adly shaped, .308 ; colour in, 318 ; Crab, in the garden, 393 ; for exposed situa- tions, 395 ; in paper bags, .3()4 ; little grown, 318, 393; marketing, 517; notes on, 68, 194; liupular, 429 ; sliy-bearing, 459, .502 Apples, too many varieties of, 4S3 Apples which fruit on the points of their shoots, 4H3 Apricot Large Early, 462 ; pests, 536 Apricots, good, from seed, 194 ; planting young, 537 ; watering and feeding, 1 Aquilegia Stuarti, 92 Archways, hop-covered, 259 Aristolochia hians, 191 ; tiicaudata, 185 Artichokes flowering, 382; (;lol)e, 141 ; .Jerusa- lem, disease in, 225, 303 Arum italicuni marmoratum, 297 Arum Lilies resting, 475; turning yellow, 300, 3.")2 Arundinaria aristata, 89, 507 ; auricoma, 214 ; me- tallica, 89, .507; nitida, 89, 507; Veitchi, 89, 507 Asclepias tuberosa, 159 Asparagus beds, 142 ; beetle, the, 22 ; feeding, 224 ; growing, 383 Asparagus Sprengeri, 88, 118 Aspa^aijus Sprengeri, 88 Asparagus Sprengeri compactus, 498, 540 Asplenium divaricatum. 71 ; ornatum, 49 Aster alpinus, 328, 348, 387 ; a. and slugs, 361 ; a. speciosus, 329 ; a. superlius, 329 ; Amellus bessarabicus, 278 ; A. Riverslea, 275 ; cordifo- lius Diana, 320; Edith, 297 : F. W. Burbidge, 258 ; grandiflorus, 320, 400 ; John Wood, 272 ; Madonna, 275 ; Mary Crum, 319 ; Novav Angli.-e roseus, 298 ; Novi-Belgii Arcturus, 298 ; seedling from Arcturus, 319 ; Tradescanti, 400 ; turbinellus, 320, 365 Aster, the single China, 271 Astilbe (ierbe d'Argent, 151, .301 ; Gerhed' Argent, 301 ; Silver Sheaf, 132; Thunbergi, 131 August in S. Devon, 268 Autumn tints, 411 Autumns, wet, and pot Strawberries, 307 Azalea indica alba, 487 ; pari of an, at Creech Urangr.,' Wareham, 487 ; J. J. de 'Vink, 507 ; obtusa, 507 ; viscosa, 106 Azaluis, hardy, in a rase, 2IS2 ; species of, 282 Azaleodendron Edouard Andre, 507 Baden-Baden, notes from, 57, 276 Balsams, 25S Bamboo canes on walls. 502 ; stakes, 458 ; out- doors, endurance of, 3Sil, 420 Bamboos flowering out of doors, 232 ; in pots, 390 Bamljusa palmata at Glasnevin, 131 Baptisia australis, 12 Bean, the Florida Velvet, 302 Beans, dwarf French, and red spider, 182 ; in pits in autumn, .328 ; French, forcing, 414, 449 Beans, Broad, in pots, 477 ; late, 413 Beans, late Runner, 489 Beans, Runner, diseased, 212 Bees and fruit, 162, .•»7, 379 Beet and Carrot sowing, 1()2; Crimson Ball in summer, 46; Red Globe, 231 ; Globa-shaped, .■i82 Beets, Globe, 224 Begonia coccinea. 186, 231 ; Corbeille de Feu, 333 ; Dregei, 529 ; echinoiephala, 231 ; Fairy Queen, 92; Florence Nightingale, 9, 31 ; Gloire de Lorraine, 67, 320, .324; Haageana. 439; Knowsleyana, 475 ; nietallica, 362 ; Moonlight, 390, 433; President Carnot, 404,518 ; semper- florens, double-flowered forms of, 352 ; Thun- derer, 9 ; venosa, 499 ; Winter Cheer, 455 ; Winter Perfection, 398 Begonias, doulile, 9, 40 ; endurance of, 199 Begonias in the flower garden, 496 ; rust on, 192 Belladonna Lily, the Kew, 414 Belladonna Lilies at Kew, 276 Bellflower, the Chimney, I. '52 Benthamia fragifera, 310 Binthamia fragifera in a Diron garden, 31o ; in fruit, 404 Birds 11. insects, 261, 323 Blackberry growing, 358 Blackberries, 255, 307 ; as a paying croji, 394 Bocconia cordata, 279; rurdala, 21'J; fenuginea, 279 ; microcarpa, 196, 276 ; microearpa, 279 Bocconias, 279 Bog garden, forming a, 346 Bomarei Carderi, 480 BOOKS^ "Alpine Plants in Lowland Gardens," 371 " Injurious Insects," 514 " Insects, Foes and Friends," 169 " Pansies, Violas, and Violets,' 91 " Riviera Nature Notes," 145 " Roses at Cannes," 175 "The French Horticultural Society,'' 306 " The Pruning Book," (i2 " Where Wild Birds Sing," 1 1 1 "Work on a Kentish Fiuit Farm," 145 Borecole Arctic Green Curled, 382 Bougainvilka glabra, 257 ; glabra, 257 ; g. Sanderiana, 519 Bouvardia Humboldti corymliiflora, 202 ; H. grandiflora, 171; jasminoide^ 400; leiantha, 134, 484 ; odorata alba, 366, 433 Bracken in the shrubberies, 178 Bramble, double pink, 146 ; the while- stemmed at Ken-, 456 Brambles, the white-stemmed, 456 Brassavola acaulis, 108 Brier, Sweet, Anne of CJerolstein, 31 Briers, Sweet, the four best Penzance, 41 Broccoli, early, 15 ; early spring, 16 Broccoli, heeling in, 371 ; late, 16 ; late, June Monarch, 6li ; late Qaeen, 16 Broccolis, May and .Tune, 448 ; Michaelmas White, 477 ; protecting, 447 ; Sandringham Winter White, 477 ; successional, 370 ; the autumn and winter, 503 ; too many, 16 Brodi;ea stellaris, 71 Broom, the Shipka, 52 ; the Spanish, 251 Browallia speciosa major, 366 Brussels Sprouts, 418 Buckthorn, tlie sea, 396, 426 ; "( A'"'-, ■'«)() Buddleia Colvillei, 6; crispa, 6 ; globosa, 6, 31 ; intermedia, 6; japoniea, 6: j. insignis, 6; Lindleyana, 6 ; paniculata,6 ; variabilis, 6, 89,508 Buddleias, 5, 52 Building, covering a galvanised, 112 Bulbs for the flower garden, 1.58 ! BuUti-nches and Gooseberry trees, 379 Buphthalmura speciosum, 112 Burlingtonia granadensis, 331 Buttercup, the Bermuda, 67 C. Cabbage and Cabbage sprouts, 141 ; Beaeonsficld, 370; crop, the early, 413; fly, the, 490; pick- ling, 524 ; plants, wintering, 489 ; planting, 262 ; seed, sowing, 66 ; sprouts, 14 Cabbages, clubbing in, 304, 369 ; Main Crop and Matchless, 14 Caladium luteum aureum, 118 falandrinia Tweediei, 196, 2.59 Calanthe labrosior, 437 : revertans, 498 ; Veitchi, 444 Calceolaria alba, 185, 301 ; Burbidgei, 186, 320 Calceolarias, 280 Calla EUiottiuna, 4.55 Callicar])a purpurea, 409 VI THE GAEDEN INDEX. [Jan. 7, 1899. Callipsyche aurantiaca, 439 Calochortus venustus allius Vesta, 71 Calluna vulgaris aurea, 47!) Camaridium ochroleucum, 404 Camellia alba plena, 51!i ; euryoides, 243; hong, kongensis, 243 ; japonica, 243 : reticulata, 243 ; rosiuflora, 243 ; Sasanqua, 243 ; thea, 243 ; the species of, 242; .-iimjle while, spray oj, 243 ; tree III the open air, 242 Camellias, 299 Campanula P.alchiniana, 2.58 ; eeltidifolia, 78 ; c. cielestis, 128 ; cenisia, .52 ; Elatines, X'A ; fra- JJihs, 99 ; G. F. Wilson, 31 ; garganica hir.«uta, l.^l ; grandis alba, 52 ; Hosti alba, 190 ; iso- phylla alba, 277: lactiQora, 112, l"i8 ; mira- bihs, 9, 32, 117, 453; miraUlis, 4.54; Porten- sehlagiana, 440 ; puUa, 12 ; pumila alba, 129 ; punctata, 51 ; pyramidalis, 132, 260 ; Vidali, 299 ; V. at Atrkairri, 299 Canna aurea, 186; Comte de Bouchard, 151; Comtesse de Vartoux Florence, 150 ; Paul Bert, 187 ; Parthenope, 150 ; Stradrath Heidenreicht, l.jO; Wdliam Marshall, 150 Cannas, 260 Capsicum, erect, fruiting, 141 Cardoons and drought, 181 Carnation Alice x\yres, 92 ; Baldwin, 10 ; Belle R_ose, 518 ; Calypso, 49 ; Celia, 348 ; Countess of Pans, 4(i7 ; Countess of Paris, 467 ; Countess of Salisbury, 151 ; Countess of Warwick, 215 ; Cowslip, 231 ; Garville Gem, 156 ; Germania, 188 ; Gloire de Nancy, 445 ; Isinglass, 89, 140 ; Lady Ardilaun, 131 ; Lady Sophie, 89 ; Leander, 171 ; Lord Rosebery, 71 ; Lord \A'elby, 10 ; Margot, 10; Marguerite, 96; Mephisto, 112; Mrs. de Satge, 10 ; Mrs. Frank Watts, 92 ; Mrs Leopold de Rothschild, 390 ; Mrs. M. Smith, 49; Nell Gwynne, 49 ; notes, 516; Nox, 130, 106, .320 ; Primrose Queen, S ; Princess Charles of Denmark, 111 ; Queen of the Yellows, 71 • ,n'L ^Sf*'*''' ^- ' l^oyalty, 156 ; Sundridge, 49, 99 ; Trentham Rose, 188 Carnations, 128, 385 ; at Chelsea, 96 ; continen- tal, 140 : diseased, 8 ; for profit, 408, 455 ; from Exmouth, 276 ; from Kelso, 172 ; in early autumn, 272 ; ilalmaison, 28 ; notes on, 302 ■ pink Tree, 518; seedling, 131; splitpodded,' l.ra ; terra-cotta, 518 ; too many, 186; Tree, 326, 352; winter-flowerino-, 528 Carpentaria californica, 248 ; c. in a Devonshire garden, 248 Carrots, .July.sown, 489 Carton, Co. Kildare, notes from, 72 Caryopteris mastacanthus, 298, 322 Cassia corymbosa, 117 ; marilandica, 4.39 Catasetum callosum, 464 ; Christyanum, 34 Cattleya Aclandiai, IS ; Adela, 9 ; aurea, 237 • bi- color marginata, 2.38; Bowringiana, 378;' B Lady Wigan, 398 ; dolosa, 514 ; Ella, 210 • Eros, 238 ; Gaskelliana, 175 ; G. picta, 331 • gigas, 3, 206, 464 ; granulosa, 116; Hardj'ana, 8o, 156 ; Harrisoniai, 238 : HoIfordi,4()6 ; inter- texta, 249 ; labiata autumnalis, 384 ; 1. Lewis! 444; 1. R. L Measures, 421; Leopoldi, 18*; Loddigesi, 173 ; Maroni, 359, 403 ; Mendeli, 206 ; Mossiie aurea, 19 ; Schofieldiana, 331 ; superba, 33 ; s. splendens, 422 ; velutina, 175 • Wallisi, 115 ; Warneri, 55 ; Wendlandiana, 27.5 Cattleyas at Rougham, 155 Cauliflower Early Dwarf Erfurt, 489 ; Early Forcing, 16 ; First Crop, 14 ; Mont Blanc, 477 ; plants, young, 489; plants, protecting young, 448 Cauliflowers, extra early, 524 ; in spring, 504 • scarcity of good, 181 o > Ceanothus Gloire de Versailles, 252 Cedrus Deodara, 400 Celery, 370 ; Standard-bearer, 413 ; earthinff ud 447, 504 ^ ^' Celeries, 370 Celeriac, 182 Centaurea moschata, 373 ; ruthenica, 196 Centaureas, annual, 372, 414 Cephalotus foUicuIaris, 440 Ceropegia Woodi, 134 Certificate, a " first-class," 276 Oestrum aurantiacum, 190 ; eleo-ans 519 CheiTy Early Rivers, 91 ; Elton, 75 ; the White Heart in liloom, 536 ; trees, repotting, 196 Cherries in Kent, 153 ; Moiello, 47, 317 Chestnut, planting the Spanish, .322 Chirnside, Tufted Pansies from, 251 Chironia baccifera. 191 Christmas salad, 489 Chrysanthemum Ada Owen, .361 ; Albert Rose, 254 ; Australie, 366, 510 ; Baronne de Veillard, 360; Beauty of Sholing, 437; Bonnie Dundee, 442; Bronze Bride, 151; C. S. Bortes, 420; Chatsworth, 437, 438 ; Christmas Favourite, 499 ; Clinton Chalfont, 423 ; Crimson Mile. Marie Masse, 316 ; Crimson Pride, 271 ; Daisy Brett, 437 ; de la Guille, 319 ; Doris Peto, 254 ; Early Blush, 151 ; Earlswood Beauty, 437 ; Edith Dashwood, 4,38 ; Emily Silsbury, 361 ; Emily Towers, 379 ; Eulalie Morel, 271 ; Florrie, 438 ; Golden Queen of Earlies, 360 ; Golden Shower, 4.37, 443 ; H. .J. Jones, 420 ; Hanwell Glory, 420 ; Henri Yyon, 253 : Henry Weeks, 379, 400 ; Hettie Mitchell, 360 ; .T. R. Upton, 423 ; Jas. Molyneux, 399 ; John Miles, 379 ; John Pockett, 399, 420 ; John Shrimpton, 533 ; Jules Mary, 311, .361; King of the Yellnws, 400 ; La Chalonais, 420 ; Lady Crawshaw, 379 ; Lady Fitzwygram, 229, 253; Lady Phillips, 361 ; Lord Cromer, 399, 400, 423 ; Louis Le- maire, 230, 249 ; M. Fatzer, 316 ; Madeleine Davis, 420, 423 ; Major Matthew, 360, 361 ; Market White, 361 ; Matthew Hodgson, 510 ; May Mauser, 2.30, 249 ; Miss Annie Hills, 420 ; Miss Harvey, 519 ; Miss Rose, 533 ; Mile. Ga- brielle Debrie, 420; Mme. L. Ligneau, 253; Mile. Lacroix, 469 ; Mile. Marie Masse, 130, 1.52 ; Mme. Aug. de Lacvivier, 316 ; Mme. R. Cadbury, 479 : Mr. W. Mease, 399 ; Mrs. Bark- ley, 437, 438, 495 ; Mrs. Coombes, 379 ; Mrs. F. Brewer, 314 ; Mrs. Geo. Hill, 361 ; Mrs. W. Curshaw, 361 ; Mrs. W. Howe, 420 ; Mrs. W Mease, 380, 389 ; Mrs. W. Seward, 361 ; Mrs. White-Popham, 380 ; Mrs. Wingfield, 3(il ; Mytchett Beauty, 380, 423 ; Mytchett White, 254 ; Nellie Brown, 360, .365 ; Nellie Pockett, 380, 399 ; nipponicum, 366 ; President Bevan, .361, 399 ; Queen of Earlies, 319, 362 ; R. Hooper Pear.son, 380 ; Rayoiinante, 314, 316 ; Rev. L. Canning, 479 ; Reginald Godfrey, 314 ; Rose Perfection, 423; Ryecroft Scarlet, 380; shows in Italy, 510 ; Sir H. Kitchener, 379 ; Snowdrop, 389 ; Sa-ur Melanie, 406 ; Soleil d'Octobre. 254, 271, 314, .360, 510; Victoria, 438 ; W. H. Lincoln, 229, 2.54 Chrjsanthemjim blooms, staging, 470 ; catalogue, a new, 176 ; cuttings, striking, 495 ; papers, 176 ; propagation from rested plants, 229; shows, forthcoming continental, 253, .361 Chrysanthemums, Anemone-flowered pompon, 443, 534 ; at Chelsea, 389 ; at Earlswood, 408 ; at Fawkham, 2,54 ; at Lewisham, 388 ; at Swan- ley, 406 ; at Syon House, 388 ; at Woking, 423 ; Australian, 469 ; border, at Chiswick, 533 ; border, at Kew, 404 ; dwarf, 271 ; early-flower- ing, .366 ; early-flowering, in France, -2.54 ; for home decoration, 405 ; for the Irarders, 469 ; glowing, for exhibition in sm.all pots, 316 : highly-coloured, 469 ; incurved, 494 ; in Devon, 494 ; in Egypt, 298 ; in Russia, 494 ; in 0 inch pots, 230 ; in the open border, 362, 510 ; large single-flowered, 439 ; n.aturally grown, 469 ; new crimson coloured, ,534 ; new,Iapanese, 468 ; new white, 406 ; notes on, 3(), 229, 253, 289, 407, 509 ; open-air, 440 ; outdoor, lateness oi, 366 ; popular show, 442, 534 ; pretty little, 510 ; purple, 469; rust in, 254, 315, .387, 441,470, 510 ; single, 407 ; testing, 495 Chysis laivis, 54 Cineraria stellata, 304 Cirrhopetalum picturatum, .522 Cistus laurifoliue, 48 Citrullus colocynthus, 439 Claremont, notes from, 415 Clematis alpiiia, 200 ; austriaca, 200 ; azurea, 137, 1.38; a. monstrosa, 138; a. Sophia, 1,38; a' Sophia fl.-pl., 1,38; barbellata, 200; bicolor, 127; calycina, 200 ; campaniflora, 39 ; cinho.sa, 200 ; coccinea, 40 ; cierulea odorata, 201 ; eras- sifolia, 201 ; crispa, 39 ; cylindrica, 40 ; David- iana, 40 ; divaricata, 39 ; Flammula, 213 ; Florida, 127; Florida plena, 127: Fortunei, 138: Hendersoni, 201 ; Hookeri, 40 ; integrifolia, 40 ; Jackmani, 201 ; lanuginosa, 200 ; 1. pallida, 200 ; montana, 200 ; orientalis, 321 ; Pitcheri, 40 ; reticulata, 40 ; revoluta, 39 : Savatieri, 40 ; .semi-triloba, 200 ; sibirica, 200 ; smilacifoha, 201 ; Standishi, 138 ; tuljulosa, 40 ; verticillaris 200; Viorna, 40; Viticella, 39, 214 Clematises dying off', 72, 99 : the, 39, 138, 147, 200 : the hybrid, 240, 279 Clerodendron splendens, 222 ; trichotomum, 271 Climbers flowering, 108 Cochlioda vulcanica, 444 Cockscombs, specimen, 278 Codonopsis ovata, 81 C; Wottoni, 'MS Cypiipediums, hybrid, ."lOD : seedling, ry22 Cyrtaiithus McKoni, .">.'{!) Cystoptoris, 48.") ; mondiiut, 4H."> Cytisus Frivaldskyanus, .VJ : nigricans, 14li, i'il : sGoparius Andreanus in Ireland, 1 V2 Dallodil liulb, a fine, 7-' Daffodils, liicolor, 241 ; in pots, ;!24 Dahlia Anti-Iope, 2:^\, 249: Claribel, 231, 249; Clown, 2,31 ; Columbine, 21((, 231 ; Countess of Lonsd;ile, 231, 249; David .Tohrison, 231,2.">0; Demon, 250; Distinction, 231, 250; Ebony, 311; Eric. 231 ; Iris, 249 ; Lad v Rogers, 210 ; Leslie Sealo, 231, 249; Lorelcy, 210 ; Louisette, 231 ; Lucius, 231, 249; Madeline, 231 ; Magni- ficent, 21(1, 231 ; Mrs. A. Peart, 190 ; Mrs. Holford, 231 ; Mrs. Pindley Oimpbell, 210 ; I'rogenitor, 249; Puck, 210; Ranji, 231, 2."ill. 271; Rising Sun, 333; Snowflake, 231, 250; The Clown, 249 ; The Demon, 231 ; The Duke, 231, 249; Tommy, 231; Viscountess Sher- brooke, 231, 249; Watchman, 231, 249 ; Wm. Neate, 249 Dahlias, Cactus, 218, 3.S5, 445 ; Cactus in Novem- ber, 415 ; Cactus, dark, 297 ; October, 366 ; pompon, 226 Damsons, 287 Dartmoor in .September, 402 Datura sansuinea, 439 ; suaveolens, 539 Davallia Mooreana, 401 Delphinium Belladonna, 271 ; sulphureum (Zalil), 347, 3()6 ; ^^ (Zalil ), pnri of a i/roup of', 347 Dendrobium Ainsworthi roseum, .VJl ; album, 296 ; Aphrodite, 216 ; atroviolaceum, 216 ; bigibbum, 174; bracteosum, 522; chrj-san- thum, 33; d'Albertisi, 116; Dearei, 155, 237; Jkarei, 237 ; Farmeri, 19 ; formosum, 155 ; f. giganteum, 297 ; f. Lovvi, 437 ; heterocar- pum, 421 ; infundibulum, 155 ; Johnsonia?, 522; moschatum, IS; nobile cn-rulescens, 514; Parishi, 346, 422; Phalitnopsis, 116; rhodo- stomum,311 ; sanguineum,210; spaciosissimum, 238 ; stratiotes, 155 ; strebloceras, 155 ; super- biens, 403 ; taurinum, 384 Dendrobiums, 155, 486 Dendrochilum Cobbianum, 377 ; filiforme, 85, 377 ; glumaceum, 377 : uncatum, 377 Dendrochilums, 377 Dendroniecon rigidum, 298 Desmodium canadense, 232 Deutzia corymbiflora, 267 ; parviflora, 507 Dianthus ca-sius, 51 ; callizonus, 12 ; chinensis fl.-pl., 150; c. laciniata fl.-pl., 150; Cyclops, 190, 220 ; Knappi, 1.32 ; pinifolius, 479 ; super- bus var. sinensis, 404 Dictamnus Fraxinella, 19 DiefiFenbachias, 529 Digitalis purpurea grandiflora, 9 Dimorphanthus mandschuricus in fruit, .366 Diospyros Kaki, 479 Dipladenia atro-purpureu, 202 Disa Clio, 170; grandiflora, 107 ; Veitchi, 19 Dittany, fioii-trs of the, 17 Doryanthes excelsa, 389 Dractna australis, hardiness of, 385 ; Duchess of York, 201, 231 : Eeckhauti, 311, 362 ; Sanderi- ;ina, 475 ; The Sirdar, 399 ; Victoria, 360 Drought, the, 271, 276 ; break up of the, 354 Drying off v. ripening off, 535 B. Earl's Court E.xhibition, 362 Earwigs, 379 Egypt, Chrysanthemums in, 298 Elderberry, the white, 268 Elseagnuses, Tree, 77 Endive, Eraser's Broad-leaved, 524 ; winter, 182 Epidendrum Bras.savohc, 86, 489 ; cochleatum, 8(i, 205 ; inversum, 346 ; nemorale, .35 ; polybulbon, 23S ; prismatocarpum, 2(16 ; radicans, 403 ; rani- ferum, 216 ; sceptrum, 296 ; variegatuni, 116 Epidendrums, distichous-leaved, 29."i Epilobium angustifolium, 79 ; ohcordatum, 12 Epiphyllum truncatum, 480 ; t. I'rincess, 437, 4(iO, 484 Eremurus aurantiacus, 99; Biingei, 71, !M) ; Elwesi, 99 ; Klmtai, 99 ; himalaicus, 99 ; Olgic, 99 ; robustus, 99 Eremuri, the, 99 Erianthus Ravennii', 496 Erianthns ll'mnnn' ina ijarden inlHiiiois, I'.S.A,, 496 Erica carnea, 262 ; hyemalis, 460 ; tetralix, 322 ; vdgans, 191 ; v. alba, 404 Erigeron glaucus, 12 ; mucronatus, 92, 91), 275, 460 ; spe3iosus, 241 Erodium guttatum, 140, 386 ; supracanum, 172 Eryngiura Oliverianum, 78 Erythrina Crista-galli, 185, 272 Escallonia langleyensis, 78 ; philippiana in Scot- land, 112 Eucharis mite, the, .351, 400 Eucryphia pinnatifida, 146, 151 Eugenia Ugni, 479 Euphorbia myrsinites, 499 Euryops .Athanasiic, .365 ' Exacum macranthum, 72 Exmouth, Carnations from, 276 Feijowa Sellowianu, 208 ; Sellowiana, 208 Ferns, branching Tree. 217 ; hranehimj Tret, in t/iij Jlitnalai/a.i, 217 ; British, propagating, 401 ; for covering walls, 319 ; for market, 3S1 ; in porous vases, 272 ; our British, 474 ; resting, 4(tl ; specimen, 297 Ferns, the Bladder, 4S5 Ficus falcata, 277 Fig Brunswick. 394 ; Brunswick on open walls, 357; Castle Kennedy. 4.')8; Negro Largo forced, 535 ; trees, bush, in the open, ."1(13 Figs, early, forced, 3(Mt ; failure of forced, 317 ; in pots, 194 ; protecting open-air, 502 ; single stems ('. suckers, 358 Filberts and Cob Nut^, 5.35 Flame Flower, the, 92, 2()0 Flame Flowers from Cbristchurch, 276 Flower beds, borders, and vases, the new furnish- ing of, 201 Flower garden notes, 4, 20, 58, 95, 158, 187, 220, 242, 259, 348 Flowers, arrangement of, 86 ; artificially tinted, 519 ; autumn, and foliage, 488 ; cut, in vases, 2S7 ; drying, 132; hardy, in cottage gardens, 59 ; hardy, notes on, 95 ; no hardy, in summer, 460 ; October, in the open garden, .387 ; of the waning summer, 157 Fog, the, 446 Forest, destruction of a, 42(1 Forestry book, an action for the loss of MS. on, 152 Fountains, streams, and pools, the adornment of, 497 Fowl's manure, value of, 380, 440 Foxglove, the white, 21 Foxgloves and Larkspurs, .32 Framfield, Chrysanthemums at, 442 Freesia refracta alba, 214 Freesias failing, 476 Fritillaria acmopetala in fruit, 112 Frost at last, 440 ; early, 272 Fruit and bees, 370 ; and vegetable crops, 134. I(i4, 189. 2(16. 22(1. 24.">, 264, 286; at the Nova Scotia provincial exhibition, 395 ; blossom and crops, 233 ; borders, renovating, 415 ; borders, watering, 1 ; crops, Kentish, 93 ; failures, 1 68 ; gathering, 273; growing in (iermany, 234; growing on light soil, 148 Fruit, hardy, work among, 23, 63, 84, 10.3, 163, 2(13, 223, 2(13, 3(i5. 373, 391, 431, 493, 511 Fruit tree beetle, the, .'56 Fruit trees and climbers, fixing to walls, 4;}0 Fruit trees, early pruning of, 462. 5(12 ; trees for profit, planting, .3(19 ; manuring, 18(1 ; mulch- mg. 228 ; on arche.=. 2.56. 416 ; over n pathiray ill Mr. G. F. WiUon'n ijiinlm id Wifshi/, 416; over-pruned, 178 ; root-pruning of, KiO, 228 ; summer-pruning of, 47 ; valuable winter wa!h for, .■592 ; watering, 4S3 B^ruits for north walls and l)orders, 227 ; stone, at the Ciystal Palace, .'ics ; under glass, work among. 7. 43, 123, 144, 184, 244, 285, 329, .-{.54, 412. 451, 471, 5;i2 Fruiting tree, a new, 208 Fuchsia Ballet Girl. 92. 214 ; corymbiflora alba, 117; General Roberts, 28; Omeral iluhtrli, .530; gracilis variegata, 299; Scarcity, 128; (Jiieen of Eiiiilanil, 531 Fuchsias. 234, .530 ; at Chelsea, 112; hardy, 258, 322 Furorua Watsoniana, I3(i Fungi, edible, 382 Fungus on grass, 2.')2 Funkia subcordata, 404 ; s. grandiflora, 3(i6 Gages, best flavoured, .')95 Gaillardia W. B. Child, 9 (Jalanthus cilicicus, 386 ; Elwesi, a new form of, 276 ; macedonicus, 499 ; nivalis octobrensis, 480 ; Olgaj Reginae, 520, 539 ; sp. from Albania, 479 Galeandra Batemani, 422 Galega officinalis var. bicolor, 71 Garden, a roof, 4 Garden, a bog, 272; a Herefordshire, 137 ; ene- mies, 199 ; friends and foes, 437 ; idyll, a, 316 ; notes from a Cornish, 2.52 ; rubbish, burning, 252, 271 ; the "formal," 243 Gii'dens, styles in the adornmentof, Kid Gardeners, an address to, 81 Gaultheria trichophylla, 4, 151 Gazania nivea latifolia. 298 ; pygma-a lutea. 400 Gentiana acaulis, 37, 156 Oentiana acatdin, 39 ; a., chalk for, 21 ; a. in peat, 21 ; ascleijiadea, 37 ; nsr/epiwli a, .'i!) ; a. alba, 190 ; lutea, 37 ; septemfidi. 37, 152 ; s. at Edijc Hall, 37 ; verna. 37, 95, 187 Gentians, 37, 99 Geranium cuttings, striking, 303 Geraniums for winter and spring blooming, 390 German}', fruit growing in, 234 Gladiolus Baron .1. Hulot, 130 ; Leinoinei Mme. Desbordes Valmore, 170 ; Queen of Roses, 10 ; The Bride., Epimediiim, and Ferni ami grasici in a raxe, 288; Vesuvius, 130 ; W. B. Child, 13(» ; White Lady, 190 Gladioli, late blooming, 365 Gloriosa superba, 2(J2 Gloxinia Her Majesty, 51 Gongora maculata, 522 Goodyera discolor, .521 Gooseberry blight, 463 Gooseberry he(Jges, 482: trees and bullfinches, 379 Gooseberries in Kent, 13 ; notes on, 110 ; scarcity of, 25 (;orse, the dwarf, 214 Grape class, a great, 5;i5 ; Duke of Buccleuch, 234, 308; Golden Queen, 482; (iros Colman colouring badly, 481 ; Lady Hutt, 109 ; Madres- field Court, 25; Muscat Hamburgh, 363: Muscat of Alexandria colouring. IIS; sports. .•«)5 ; West's St. Peter's, .5ol Grapes, keeping, 254 ; keeping in bottles, 536 : Muscat, colour in, 481 ; Muscat, compost for, 416, 462 : shrivelling, 256 ; the colouring of. 167 ; white, 227 (ireens, winter, planting, 449 Grift'eraie. de la, as a cultivated Rose, 372 Griffinia hyacinthina, 455 Gunnera at Countesswells, .Aberdeen, 386 ; niani- cata at Narrow Water. 51 ; ?». in iti: Abtrdecii- xhire garden, .385 ; ni. in Ireland, 20 ; m. in the north, 385, 445 Gynerium argenteum aureo-lineatum. 249 ; a. Rendatleri, 271. H. Habenaria Susann.x-, 332 H;emanthus coccineus, 277, 319 ; natalensis, 4.'I3 Hale Farm Nurseries, Tottenham, 232 Hazel catkins, 349 vm THE GARDEN INDEX [Jan. 7, 1899. Hazels, the, .349 Heath, the alpine forest, 6 Heath, the Cornish, llll Heaths, greenhouse, 3i3 Heaths, three winter-flowering, 262 Heather protection, 516 Hedera obovata, 480 Hedychium flavewens, 404 Hedysarum multijugum, Kt, ."iOT Helenium autumnale superbum, 210, 2r),S Helianthus liftiflorus, XV.i ; Miss Mellish, 232 : multiflorus maximus, l!l(i, 271 ; orgyalis, 276 Heliopsis patula, 151 Helleborus orientalis, 480 Hemerocallis aurantiaca major, 31, 71, 420, 446 Hessia spiralis, 490 Heuchera sanguinea grandiBora, 112 Hibiscus sjriacus totus albus, 240, 508 Hillside, a note from, 14.3 Hippeastrum calyptratum var. pallidum, 5.39 Hippophiv rhamnoides, 396 ; rhamnoidts at Keic, 396 Hogg, Robert, Memorial medal, 294 Hollies by roadsides, planting, 350 Hollyhock, the revival of the, 218 Hollyhocks, 1.->1, 4,34 Homburg, a note from, 12 HoneysHclde, an arch of, 26 ; the Swamp, 2S3 Honeysuckles, climbing, 25 Hopton Hall, notes from, .320 Houlletia Brocklehurstiana, 18; odoratissima, 275 Hoya carnosa, 390, 434, 519 Hunnemannia fumaria'folia, 170 Hyacinths, manure for, 234 Hyacinthus amethystinus, 479 Hybrid failures, 380 Hybridiser, a successful, .')14 Hydrangea Hortensia, 67, 322 ; H. var. Mariesi, 390 ; paniculata, 213 ; paniculatagrandiflora, 51, 251 : the blue, 457, 4,87 Hydrangeas for house decoration, 433: in S. E. Kirkcudbrightshire, 151 Hypericum agyptiacum, 490 : androsicmum, 490 ; Ascyron, 491 ; aureum, 491 ; balearicum, 491 ; Buckleyi, 491 ; calycinum, 491 ; densi- fiorum,491 ; empetrifolium, 491 ; i mpttrifolium, 491 ; galioides, 492 ; hircinum, 492 ; Hookeri- anum, 322, 492 ; HooLeriaiiuiii, 490 ; inodorum, 492 : Kalmianum, 492 ; Moserianum, 492 ; olympicum, 492, 508 ; patulum, 4.39, 492 : palulmn, 490 ; prolificum, 492 ; uralum, 492 Hypericums, 24, 490 Ile.x (Jolden King, .")(I7 Impatiena .Jerdoni:t, 519 ; Sultani, varieties of, 529 Incarvillea Delavayi, 191,430; grandiflora, 431; lutea, 431 ; Olgie, 431 ; sinensis, 431 ; variabilis, 29S Incarvilleas. 430 Indigofera Gerardiana, 132 Inula Oculus Christi, 171 ; Rojlei, 275 lonopsidium acaule, 519 Ireland, a note from. 271 Iris Aitchisoni, 102 ; alata, 499 ; a/.ito, 102 : Bakeriana, 539; bulbs, retarding, ,539: caro- liniana. 41 : Eiii/llsh, 471 : hexagona, ,55 : His- trio, 499: juncea, 31. ,5211: j. numidica, 9: K.'empferi, 72, 85 : K. at Wisley, .j6 : Lson Tol- stoi, 52; lupins, ,59; Lai Bi.echfield, Walloii- on-Thames, 59 ; persica, 103, 470 : relicidata, 471 ; Spanish, 279 ; Spaitidi, 471 : stylosa, ,500 ; tectorum, 12 Irises, bulbous, 470 : early, 539 Ivy and Ceanothus azureus, 268 Ixora coccinea lutea, 320 ; Dixiana, 319 ; incar- nata, 499 Jankjea Heldreichi, 21 Jasminum grandifJorum, 439, -520 : othcinale grandiflorum, 178 : Sambac, 476 Jessamine, the common white, 146 July in South Devon, 160 June in South Davon, 69 K. Kales, winter, 328 Kalmia latifolia poisonous, 176 Kent, Currants in, 93 Kew, Belladonna Lilies at, 276 Kitchen garden, work in the, 7, 23, 44, 63, 83, 104, 124, 143, 1()3, 184, 204. 223, 244, 263, 2.84, .305, 330, 3.53, 374, 391, 411, 431, 451, 472, 492, 512, .532 Kniphofia grandis, 320 : modesta, 276 : Nelsoni, 191. 275. 298 : nobili,=, 160 : Uvaria, 252 Knipliofias, two gODd, 2,32 K(L'lreuteria paniculata, ,321 Kohl Rabi, ,524 li. Labels, outdoor, 203, 480. 488, 520 Laburnum avenue, a, 248 Lachenalia glaucina, 134 Lachenalias, forcing, 324 L.-clia acuminata, 406 ; albida sulphurea, 464 ; amanda, 444; anceps alba, 29(i ; a. Schm-deri- ana and Schru'deras, 346 ; autumnalis, 275 ; crispa, 55 ; Dayana, 215 ; Dormaniana, 346 ; Digbyano-purpurata, 498 ; elegans, 85, 238 ; monophylla, 173, 384 : Perrini, 155 : Perrini leucopha-a, 359 : pumila Colemani, ,3,59 ; purpu- rata, 17, 116 : splendens, 249 : Wyattiana, ,34 : xanthina, 205 Litlio-Cattleya Canhamiana var. Joyce Wigan, 9 : corbeillensi.", 2.36 : Decia, 466 : Dominiana and its varieties, 465 : Dominiana langleyensis, 311, 465; Eunonia, 275; Henry Greenwood. 311: Ingrami gigantea, 89 : Lady Rothschild, 466 : Schilleriana (Cambridge Lodge var.), 89 : Semi- ramis. 4(i6 : Statteriana, 466, 487 L;elioCattleyas, late-flowering, 466 La'liopsis domingensis, 33 Lagerstrn-mia indica, 185 Lantanas, lOS Lapageria alba, 171 : sprays of, from Mr. W. A. Miliar, Totley Hall, Sheffield, 277 ; shading, 432 Lapagerias, 277, 518: in pots, 325 Lapeyrousia cruenta. 480 Lathyrus armitageanus, 353 ;cn'ruleu8, 40 ; Drum- mondi, 3.53: grandiflorus, 352 ; g. albus, 170, 190, 2,52 : latifolius. 352 ; I. alh>i.s, 353 : pubescen,", 353, 400 : Sibthorpi, 353 ; tuberosus, 353 ; vio- laceus, 400 Laurels, 426 Laurustinus in Cheshire, 115 Lavatera arborea variegata, 31, 67 Lavender. 160 Lawns, poor, 3(i2 Leaf-mould, growing Orchids in, 403, 444 Leeks sown in autumn and winter, 449 Lettuce All the Year Round, 15 : Commodore Nutt, 15 : Continuity, 504 ; Crystal Palace, .50 : Hick's Hardy, 46, 262 ; in hot weather, 262 : Record, 489 Lettuces grown in leaf-soil, 447 : hardy Cabbagp, 489 : in dry weather, 413 ; summer, 65 ; tying up, 369 : winter, 382 Leucojum a'stivum, ,59 : autumcale, 172, 298 Ligustrum Walkeri. 249, 350 Lilium auratum, distinct varieties of, 1,59 ; a. platyphyllum, 261 : Batemano?, 151 : Browni, 81, 128 : B. and L. odorum. ,56 : candidum, 71 : chalcedonicum, 96 : colchicum. 199 : gigan- teum, 186: (jigatiteiim, 186: g. at Wisley, .56 : Hansoni, 51 ; Henryi. 78, 191 ; Humlioldti, 139: H. magnificum, 71 ; Lowi, 78; Marhan, 9, 32; ochroleucum, 259, 347 : 0. in a Dorset- shire garden, 2.59 ; pomponium verum, 21 ; ru- bellum, 251, 410, 446: speciosum album no- vum, 71, 157: s. in bloom, ,55: s. Melpomene, 261; superbum, 126: testaceum, 56: Wittei, 32 Lilie', 278: and (Jaltoniae. 241 : cup-shaped, 38 : hybrid, ,58 : ,Japanes8, 496 : Martagon at Kirk- connel, 92 Lilies, Belladonna, 231 Lilies, hardy Water, at Gunnersbury, 302 Lih', anew, 12: double-flowered Martagon, 128: the Burmese, 259 ; the Tiger, 160 Lily, the Australian Spear, 389 Linaria repens alba, 151 Linospadix Petrickiana, 311 Linum arboreum, HI ; a. seeding, 152 Lithospermum prostratum, 172, 400 Li\erpool, flowers from, 276 Lobelia and Phlox, 196 ; British Maid, 297 ; car- dinali.s, 261, 278; c. Prince Arthur, 319 ; Car- mine Gem, 241, 333 : Crimson Gem, 361 ; ful- gens, 420 : f , Queen Victoria from seed, 435 ; Gerardi, 251 : Rivoiiei, 210 Lobelia, blue, the abuse of, 217 Lobelias, hybrid scarlet, 298 : the cardinal, 239 Lonicera caprifolium, 26 : Etrusca, 26 : flava, 26 ; gigantea, 26 ; glauca, 26 : hirsuta, 26 : implexa, 26 ; japonica, 26 : j. aureo-reticulata, 26 ; j. flexuosa, 26 ; j. Halleana, 26 ; Periclymenum, 26 ; P. belgica, 26 : P. japonica, 26 : P. i|Uerci- folia, 26 : sempervirens, 26 : SuUivanti, 27 Luculia gratissinia, 390, 404, .520 Lupinus arboreus, ,52 ; polyphyllus, 20 ; p. Somer- set, 9, 31 Lii/h' r Burhanl\ 514 Lycaste costata, 2 ; lanipes, 465 : Skinneri rosea, '487 Lychnis Haageana, 152 ; Walker's hybrid, 52 Lythrum roseum, 81 M. Macrotomia echioides, 2.32 Madonna Lily, the, 20 ; the, diseased, 39 Magnolia grandiflora not flowering, .508 : parvi- flora, \H> ; jiarrijirra, 177: pumila, 78; Wat- soni, 78 Maidenhead, Chrysanthemums at, 442 Maiden-hair tree, the, 426 Mandevilla suaveolens seeding, 4.39 Manetti, nurserymen and the, 372 Manure cards on show exhibits, 27 Manures, stimulating, 473 Marigolds, African, 349 ; French, dwarf, as hot weather plants, 261 Masdevallia caudata Estrad;v, 54 : c. hybrids, ,54 ; Chamberlainiana. .54 : Courtauldiana, ,54 : Davisi, 174 ; Gairiana, 422 : Gelengana, ,54 : Henrietta.', .55 ; Imogene, 89 : Kimballiana. .54 : Lindeni, 216 : macrura, 86, 464 : Peristeria, ,54 ; poly- sticta, 513 : Pourbaixi, ,54 : racemosi, 33, 378 ; senilis, 1.5(i ; Shuttryana, .54; tovarensis, 384; triaristella, 216 Masdevallias at Booking Place, 216 Maxillaria furcata, ,521 : nigrescens, 216 : picto, 41)5: Sanderiana, 2: tenuifolia, 107 Meadow Saff'rons, 172, 231 Meconopsis nepalensis, 446 ; Wallichi, 140 Melon British Queen, 211, 227 : Countess of Derby, 75 : Diamond Jubilee, 73 : Frogmore Orange, 47 : Gunton Scarlet, 312 : Hendre Seedling, 122; notes, ,357 : roots diseased, 195; The Czar, 75 : Wythes' Scarlet, 312 Melons, 482; for frames, 119: what bacomes of new y 427 Mentha Requieni, 160 Menziesia polifolia, 214 Mercury as a vegetable, 524 Mesembryanthemums in the garden, 140 Metrosideros floribunda, 67 Michaelmas Daisies, 366 : a border of, 445 ; and the dry weather, 259 ; in an orchard, 445 Michauxiacampanuloides, 140 Microlepia hirta cristata, 217 Mignonette Machet, 387 Mildew on Vine", 180, 357 Milla biflora, 1,39 Miltonia Binoti, 249 : cuneata, 464 ; Lamarcki- ana, 346: leiiooglossa, 249: Moreliana, 107 ; Peetersiana, 403: Regnelli, 1,55: Roezli, 464; Schra-deriana, 296 : spectabilis Moreliana, 238 Mite, the Black Currant, 463 Mocassin Flower, the, 32 : the, at StraS'an, ,52 Momordica cochinchinensis, 404 Morina longifolia, 348 Mormodes, 485 : buccinator, 331, 486 ; Cartoni, 486 ; Colossus, 486 : luxatum, 486 ; Ocanaj, 486 ; pardinum, 237, 486 Mutisia decurrens, 196, 278 Myosotis dissitiflora, 241 Jan. 7, 1899.] THE GARDEN INDEX. IS. N. Nabonimnd, M., li.'i'J Name wanted, 4Hlt, 4!li), .')17 Nanodos Medusx% 21.") Xarci.smin ICmprems, 324 ; Grander, •-';{!) ; Mrs. Thonijiton, 3A") : N'el.ioui myo^, 23!) ; Nelsoiii vars., 23!); Paper-white, 4('>il; Saiilii Maria, 32."); the doubb I'oet's. 3: viiidiflorus, 4!l!) Na:turtuim t^tueen of Tom Thuinbe, 9 Nectarine Downtoii Improved, 3.')S ; Karly Rivers. KiS : Humboldt, 31S ; Hunt's Tawny, .')3S ; IMiic apple, 234, 2.")(i Nectarines, late. 3ilS. :wr, ; tw o valuable, 273 Nelumbium nuiiferum speciosum. 1.30 Nemesia strumosa. !l!l : s. Suttoni. 40 Nerine olegans alba, 433 ; Lady Clementine M it- ford. 3IIII; Miss Jekyl). 3!)!) ; Mrs. Douglas. 3!I0; undulatu. 4!I0 Norines. hybrid. 4(iii Nertera depressa. !i2 Neston, Cheshire, notes from. .'ilT Newry, Michaelmas Daisies from, 272 Nicotiana affinis. 3Jil Nieremliorfjia rivularis, 171 November in S. Devon, "iilS Nymphiea gloriosa, SO ; Lotus rubra, 404 ; Mar- liacea albida, 207 : M. ignea, 130 ; odorata rosacea, so ; o. sulphurea grandiflora, 17il : sU/lulii, 07 Oak, the. and Elm. 42(j OltlTlAKV — Clark. Latimer. 3SII Miller, W.. 32 Parsons. R. B., 4(iii Pragnell. W.. 5(Ml Pulham. James. 152 Octoljer. flowers in, 320 : in S. Divon, 4.V2 Odontoglossum bictonense album, 15(1 ; carini- ferum. 513 ; Cervantesi membranaceum. 46(i ; cirrhosum roseum, 34 ; citrosmum, 3.32. 302 ; crispum Lehmanni, 12!l : elegans, 3S4 ; grande superbum, 331 ; Harryanum, 107, 345: Hunne- wellianum, 4S7 ; In-leayi, 34 ; Krameri album, 37S ; Lindleyanum, 377 ; madrense, Sti ; Oerstedi, 115; pardinum, 174; Pescatorei, Mi; purum, 205 ; Roezli. 33 ; Rossi rubescens, 513 ; Schra-- derianum, .340, .3S4 ; tripudians. 2(15, 403 •Enothera macrocarpa. 171, 232, 320; speciosa, 02 ; tetraptera rosea, 4(10 Olearia Haasti, 14(1 Ornithocephalus grandiflorus, IS Ornithogalum lacteum, 445 Omphalodes Lucili;e, 132, 242 Oncidium aurosum, 237 ; Batemanianum, 2(i5 ; cheirophorum. 4(16 ; concolor, 377 ; carthagi- nense. 34 ; crispum, 4(15 ; c. aureum. 1(17 ; dasy- style, 17 ; flexuosum. .331 ; Forbesi, 205 ; h;ema- tochilura. 513 : Harrisonianum, 54 ; incurvum. S() ; incurvum album, 175; .Jonesianum. 421; Laneeanum, .55 ; longipes, 34 ; loxense. 37!) ; Papilio, S5 ; pr.i'textam, 150; pulvinatum, 205; reflexum. 513 ; tigrinum. 174 ; trulliferum, 275 : varicosum. 422 Onion Boxold's Banbury Cross. 23(1 ; crop, the, 14 ; enemies of the. (1+ ; Hurst's Banbury Cross, 230 ; Nuneham Park, 23(1 ; Rousham Park, 230 ; The Queen, 370 ; Wroxton, 231) Onions. 57, 1S2, 414, 424 ; and Cabbages, 202 ; au- tumn-sown. 141, 224, 504; autumn-sown, run- ning,' to seed, 1(1 ; early white, cultivation of. 14(1 : exhibiting, 45 ; fine crops of, .3(10 ; harvest- ing, .303 ; imported, .328 ; keeping, 424 ; large, 4!)0 ; winter sown, 424, .523 Ononis rotundifolia, 171 Orchard, an, near Glaifonbury, .527 ; in a Dtron- sliir'., 'rlo : the beautiful. .525; unsuitable site for an. 4(11 Orchard tree planting, mistakes in. 3Is Orchards, diitd up. 233 Orchid house*, the atmosphere of, IS, 11(1; venti- lating, 521 Orchids, cool-house, 2.36; cool, in frames. 54; growing in leaf-mould, 403, 444 ; in bloom at VVeybridge. 422 ; nowadays, 23S ; notes on, 2, 107, 331, 513 ; resting, 52;J Orchis maculata superba, 32 ; the Kilmarnock, 1 .32 Osmanthus ilicifolius argenteo-variogatus. 305 O-strowskia magnifica, 31, 7!) ; m. alba, 71 Othonna trinorva, 530 O.falis cronata as a vegetable. .523 ; cernua. 67 ; cnneaphylla. 2IS ; hirta. .3(16; lobata, 272 Oxydendron arboreum, 17S Ozothamnus rosmarinifolius, 77. \Wt ■,r., Jlowerimj sjirayn of, in a i>a«f, 146 P. Pachystoma Thomsonianum, lOS Pieonia albiflora striata, 31 P:vony foliage in autumn, 301 Palmi a branching Date, 117 ; a hranrhiiaj l)ai, , al Indori'i Ctnlral India, 117 Palumbina Candida, 205 Pandanus Sanderi, 240 Piinsy, Tufted, A. .T. Rowberry seedlings, 02 ; Blush Queen, 50 ; Bronze Queen, 1.5(1 ; Celeste, .5!! ; Christiana, 5(1 ; Devonshire Cream, 5!l ; Duchess of Teck, 50; Florizel, .50; Lavinia, 190; Magie, 56; Masterpiece, 71 ; Pembroke, seedlings from, 1!)0 ; Virginius, 71 ; White Empress, .56, 100 Pansies, Tutted, 21, 38, 12.S ; and the drought, 251 ; as cut flowers, 5 ; at Trent Park, 80 ; exhibiting, 7S ; flowering late, 362 ; for table decoration, 138 ; four good, .3!) ; new, 12S ; seedling, 190 ; propagating, 1S7 ; trial of, at Chiswick, !)7 Papaver rupifragum var. atlanticum, 275 Paphinia cristata, 330 ; grandis, 331 ; rugosa, 3.31 Paphinias, 330 Paris Universal Exhibition, 1900, 380 Parnassia asarifolia, 207 Parsley as an edging, 413 ; in winter, 524 Parsnips in winter, 44S Passiflora Constance Elliot in Kirkcudbright, 2.32 ; edulis, 317 Patrinia rupestris, 112, 131 Paulownia Fortunei, 477 ; imperialis, 476 ; i. in the Hoijal (_!ard(-iix, Ki w, 470 Pea Acme, 50, 141 ; Autocrat, 504 ; Autocrat in October, 370; Boston Unrivalled, 66, 142 ; Con- tinuity, 91; Drummond's New, .50; Duke of Albany, 523; Early Morn, 477; Earliest Mar- row, 45 ; Essex Rival, 504 ; Hartford's Success, !)1 ; Honeydew, !)1 ; Mansfield Show, 01 ; May Queen, 490 ; Jlay Queen for autumn sowing, 65; Ne Plus Ultra, 524; Prior, !ll ; Siiccharine, 91; The Bruce, 01; The Michaelmas, 370; Thomas Laxton, 5(i, 65 ; thrips, the, 61 ; Veitch's Earliest Marrow, 46 Peas, 16 ; autumn, 45 ; early, 16 ; late, 4.'i9 ; main-crop, 141 ; notes on, 323, 3.54, 37-1, 409, 435, 443 Pea, Everlasting, a new white, 232 Peas, Everlasting, 352 Pea, Sweet, Aurora, 49; Butterfly, 71 ; (iolden Cate, 49 ; Princess May, 31 Peas, Sweet, 4; self-coloured, 71 ; sowing, in autumn, 434, 467 Ptach A Bee, 31S, 462 ; Bellegarde, 365. .304, 43(1; Dagmar. 4.5!), 537; Early Canada, 110; Early (irosso Mignonne forced, 119; Early Silver, .502: Exquisite, 74; houses, manage- ment of early, .■!17 ; Late Devonian, 274 ; Mar- quis of Downsliire, 273, 392 ; Princess of Wak??, 2.55, 364, .537 ; Royal Charlotte, .501 ; Salway. 75 ; Sea Eagle, 274 : Stirling Castle, .">:i(l : Thomas Rivers, 11 ; tree failing to fruit, .'!(14 : trees, leaf-curl in, 6s ; trees, netting indoor, 4S1 ; trees, outdoor, 255 ; trees, syringing, 363 ; Waterloo, 110; Princess of Wales, 417, 463; 'Violette Hative, 227, 2.55 Peaches and Nectarines for market, 35, 75 ; sum- mer pruning of, ISO : in Devon. 3I!I : in Franco, the bast, 4.50; leaf-curl in, 3'IS; mildew on, 1(19; on north walls. 462,501 ; packing, 41(1 : value of early, in the south of France, 307 Pear Alexander Lambre, 429 ; Beurrfi Alexander Lucas, 430 ; Beurre Bosc, 22s, 50.'! ; /I'lirn' Base, 228 ; Beurre Clairgeau, 3os ; B' nrre Clairrjean, 30S ; BeurrS de Capiaumont, 274 ; Beurro de I'Assomption, 317 : Beurrfi Diel. 41(1, 461, .53)1 ; Beurr6 Hardy, 42!) ; Beurre St. Louis, 462 ; Beurro Superlin, 42!) ; Bishop's Thumb, 462 ; Chaumontel, 503 ; Clapp's Favourite, 2.55 ; Ccimte do Klandro, 537 ; Cointe de Lamy, 4S2, .53S ; Directeur Hardy, 463 ; IJuchesse d'An- gouleme, 428 ; Easter Beurre, 46 ; Fertility, :i!)5 ; Glou Morceau, 462 ; Jargonelle, .502 ; Marie Louise failing, 255 ; midge, the, 483, 517 ; Passe Crassane, 462 ; Swan's Egg, 317 ; Thompson's, 42S, 461, 4.S2 ; (ne Marie Luuiic in li'noni, .534 ; trees casting their fruit, .'i!l5 ; trees, young, overcropping, 462 ; Van Mens Leon Leclerc, 502 ; Williams' Bon Chretien on the (Juincc, 2.5(1, 365 Pears, 4.5!) ; for succession, 440 ; good cordon, 503 ; notes on, 427 ; scarcity of winter. .537 ; some midseason, .'502 ; stewed, 30!) Pelargonium Achievement, SO, 112, 133; a good light-floweie(i,67 ; Charbon Ardent, 2S ; Crabbc, .120; Eleanor, SI; Galilee, !I2 ; Guillen Man- gilli, 300, 433 ; Souvenir de Prince Albert, 27 1, 326 ; Hii Iryleani/, us a rase jdanl, 43 ; the zonal, 42 ; West Brighton Gem, 4.55, 51!l Pelargoniums, a few distinct zonal, 133 : notes on, SS ; two good Ivy-leaved, 67 ; white zonal, 400 ; winter-flowering zonal, 519 ; zonal, with spolted flowers, 2S Pellionia decora. 518 Pentas carnea, 4S4 Pentstemon George Fisher. 37; glaber, 171: heteropliyllus. 111 ; lavigatus, !I2 Pentstemons, seedling. 218 Perennials, winter mulching of, 468 Peristeria elata. 21(1 Pernettya mucronata, 460 Pernettyas, 321 Peristrophe speciosa, 539 Phahenopsis amabilis, .522 : Esmeralda. 421 ; Lowi, 4S6 : Luddemanniana, 34; Manni, 33: violacea. 108, .'J31 Phal;enopsids, notes on, 116 Philadelphus Lemoinei, 9, 78, 507 ; microphyllus, 4S ; Mont Blanc, .507 Phlomis fruticosa, KKi ; Russelliana, 31 Phlox Aurore, 190 ; Diadem, 151 ; Lord Ray- leigh, 151 Phloxes, herbaceous, 37 ; Sesostris and Cameron, 275 Phicnoccmi prolifera Barnesi, 31 Phygelius capensis, 219, 26'), 347 Phyllocactus Billardieri, 53!) Phyllostachys Castillonis, 89, .508 ; fulva, 89, .508 Physalis Franchetti, 279 Physianthus albens, 2o2 ; a. in fruit, 460 Physosteg'ia virginiea alba, 196 Picea pungens glauca pendula. 4!), 507 Pieris formosa, 77 : /. at Piutillie. Castk, Cornn-all, 77 ; Mariana, 4.39 Pilumna fragrans. 295 Pine-apple Moscow Queen, 318 Pineapples, shading, 275 Pinguicula eiudata. 4,54 Pink Albino, 31 : Mrs. Sinkins, 21 Pinxter Flower, the, 283 PlaoeaArza?, 511 : grandiflora. 511 : ornata, l!lo,5] 1 I'laceas, 510 Plagiiis grandiflorus, 92 Plantain Lilies failing to flower, ."(48 Planting, preparing for. !()7 Plants, bog, two beautiful, 92 : border, three good showy, 21 ; carpet, for bulbs, 385 : carpet, for shrub beds, 4.35 : fine-foliaged, permanent beds of, 386 : hardy. 78 ; hardy, notes on, 468 ; Himalayan. 496 : useful winter, 326 ; watering, 484 Plates, coloured, list of. 334 Platycodon grandiflorum album. 151 Pleione humili^, 444: lagen;uia, 331 ; maculata, 464 Pleurothallis. 383 Plum Coe's Golden Drop, 416, 462 ; Early Trans- parent Gage. !)1 ; Gisborne's, 2.56 : Gordon Cistle. 318 ; (irand Duke. 537 ; Pershore, .502; Primate, 312; Piince Englebert, 4.59; trees, fcedinor, 481 ; Washington, 308 Plums, 318; in Kent, 235; in 1898, 306; notes on, 429 ; on south walls, .502 Plumbago capensis, 300: Larpentie, 251. 260, 276, 348, 445 ; rosea, 49!) THE GAEDEN INDEX. [Jan. 7, 1899. Podophyllum Emodi, 190 Poggio Gherardo, Florence, 449 Poinsettias, 300, 4(;(l, ."ilO, 539 Polyanthuses, border, 44(i Polygonum baldschuanicum, I'i : Brunonis, 2II,S ; capitatuDQ, 404 ; saclialinense. 'M Polypodium grande nigrescens, 398 : nigrescens, 439 I'olypodiums, 475 Polystichnm angulare aculeatum, 49 ; a. Kitvonir, 474 Populus angulata var. cordata, 114; Ontario variegata, "249, "lOS Posoqueria longiflora, 8; lomji/lora, S Potato Beauty of Hebron, '489 : Challenge, 231 ; crop o{ 189S, 3(14; Devonian, 231 ; Famous, 15, Ci(i ; Fidler's Queen, 231 ; Fishtoft Seedling, 231 : Foo, 231 ; lifting, 2(12 ; Miss Ellen Terry, 231 ; Ninety-fold, 14 ; Puritan, .'i04 ; Snowdrop, 1(> ; Snowball, 413; Syon House Prolific, .303, 370 ; The Major, 230 Potatoes, Ki, 142, 224, 303, 3(jS ; autumn planting of, 448 : early, 2(51 : early, for sheltered bor- ders, 523; failing, 424, ;')(I4 ; forcing, 4S8 : in light soil, 182 ; lifting, 202 ; notes on early, 162 ; round, 309, 448 ; wintering, 447 Potentilla nepalensis, 251 Pratia angulata, 270 Pi-iiHtve MviuUad Eiirly While, 143 Primroses, blue, 40; Bunrh, 143; hardy, 142; double, 2(12 Primula capitata, 43!) ; c. outdoors, 40(i ; <: at Edge Hall, 407 ; floribunda, 493 ; Forbesi, 480 ; obconica, 231 : Trailli, 32 ; rulijaris, 142 Primulas attacked by larva;, 385 Promenjea stapelioides, 174, 384 Prunus Amygdalus, 122; A. amara, 123; A. dulcis, 123; A. fl.-pl., 123; A. macrocarpa, 123 ; A. pendiila, 123 ; A. persicoides, 123 Pteris tricolor, 243 Ptychosperma Sanderiana, 300 Public Gardens— Bishop's Park, Fulham, 112 Chelsea, the Physic (iarden at, 72 Chrysanthemums in the parks, 397, 417 Ealing, new park for, 54(1 Epping Forest, addition to, 362 Forest Hill, new park for, 272 Gardens, public, and the study of botiny, 52 Gift by Lord Ellesmere, 50i» Grosvenor Park, Chester, Hollies in, 1.50 Grounds, private, and the public, 1 1 Hampstead Heath, 457 ; extension of, 12, 302, 380, 398 Kew Gardens, assistant director of, 132 London, open spaces in, 52, 39s, .5(10 Metropolitan Public Gardens Association, 3()2 Newcastle, pleasure ground for, 302 Preston, an open space for, 398 Prince George's Ground, Raynes Park, 72, 192 Queensferry, a public park for, 52 Rosebery Avenue, 314 Royal Botanic, 172 Russell Square, a new garden off, 380 St. Albans, recreation ground for, 132 Swanley, recreation ground for, 232 Puschkinia scilloides, 219 ; P. .<.K .")4(» Royal Horticultural, !t, ;il, 4'.), 72, »'.), Ill, 12!), [.■|(l, 1711, I'L", 210, 2:ill, 24il, ;!Il, .Sf)!!, 3811, .•iitS, 42ll', 4;i7, 4711, 4',(7 St, Petersbur;;, exliibition at, 212 Swiss National Chrysanthemum, l.'iii United Horticultural Benefit and Provident, 2.il, .'{14 Solanum jasminoides, lUU ; macrocarpum, 470 ; pensile, 2.'{1 ; Seaforthianum, .'llil Sophora japonica, 2(j7 Sophro-Cattleya Cleopatra, .'il I Sopbronitis, 2!i(i ; cernua, 201j, 51:! ; grandiflora, 20(>; violacea, 2!W Sparaxis pulcherrima alba, 12 Sparrows, 112 Spartium junceum, l'^^2 Spathoglottis Fortunei, 4(14 Spinach as a catch crop, (i.'i ; autumn, 181 ; fail- ing, .■170 ; large, 14 ; winter, failing, 504 ; winter, in dry seasons, o24 Spira>a ariiffolia, 146 ; Bumalda at Arbigland, 1.">1 ; flagelliformis, A^i-.jlagellifonnii, 4,S; tomen- tosa alba, 231 ; venusta, 171 Spraying, its past, present and future, "lO Stages, galvanised iron for, 52 Stanhopea oculata, 175 ; Rodigasiana, 0 Starworts, naturalised, 27S ; the alpine, 328 Stenoglottis longifolia, 206 Stenomesson incarnatum, 134 Stephanotis, culture of, 234, 301 ; the, as a green- house climber, 2(l2, 215 Sternbergia lutea, 387 ; 1- in Scotland, 320 ; ma- crantha, 152 Stocks, Brompton, 5,38; wintering Brompbon, 348 Stokesia cyanea, 301 , 320 Storm, the recent, 530 Strathfieldsaje, 405 ; in the grounds at, 407 ; the terrari garden at, 405 Strawberry, an early, 75 ; Bicton White Pine, 482: forcing, 73; Lady Suffield, 73, ill, 250 ; Latest of All, 74, 148 ; Leader, 4(1, 74 : Louis Gauthier, 75 ; Monarch, 74 ; Prolific, 122 ; Raspl)erry, the, 1.81 ; Reward, 50 ; Royal Sove- reign, 168 ; Royal Sovereign rottins, 122 ; run- ners, large r. small pots for, 458 ; runners, layering, into pots, .■)03 ; runners, planting late- formed, 274 ; St. Joseph, 250 ; Sir C. Napier, (i8 ; Trafalgar, 71 ; Veitch's Prolific, 50 Strawberry trees, the, 48ii Strawlierries, 110 ; and the drought, 364 ; annual, 48 ; Empress of India and Grove End, 482 ; in frames, 104 ; in Hampshire, 100 ; in Kent, 53 ; layering, 2 ; mulching, 536 ; mulching, with grass, 256 ; new, 140 ; notes on, 74 : perpetual, 170: planting, 118; planting, on dry ground, 310; pot, and wet autumns, 3o7 ; ripe, by post, 68 : work among, 104 Sfrcnm, a rucky, in a gardin near Birmingham, 268 ; garden, a Dorsetshire, 127 Streamlet, a garden, 268 Strepfocarpus, evolution of the, 215 ; Wendlandi, 28, 68 Streptosolen .lamesoni, 215 Sultans, Sweet, 05 Sumach, tlie Stag's-horn, 248 ; at Keir, 5o5 Sumachs, the hardy, 505 Swainsonia galegifolia alba, 71,215, 2.58, 326 Switzerland, flower notes from, 258 Syringa macrostachya, 115 ; japonica, 213 Tank, water, making a, 52 Tocoma jasminoides, t>7 ; radicans, 267, 426 Teucrium fruticans, 440 Thalictrum tuberosum, 51 Thistle, a white, 120, 151, 188 Thunbergia alata, 134 ; grandiflora, 275, 277, 325 ; g. alba. 101) Thunia Bensonia', 17 Tibouchina macrantha, 361. 530 Tomato Carters Outdoor, 162 ; Currant, 171 ; Dostert. 14 ; disease, 142 ; Kxtia Round Seed- ling, 225 ; Fidler's Crimson (^lueen, 225 ; graftnl on. Potato, 447 ; Hackwood Park, 225 ; Hatha- way's Excelsior, 162 : Lorenz's Forerunner, 225 ; Melton Seedling, 262 ; Sutton's Main- Crop, 225 ; Up-to Date, 2l>2, 368 Tomato Tree, 417, 440, 480 Tomatoes and Oranges in Cucumber boxes, .370 ; notes on, 225 ; outside, 66 ; planted out, 224 Town gardening, 157 Toivn gardrii, herbareons border in a, 157 Transplanting, 394 Trees and shrubs certificated in 1898, .507 ; wall, injury to, from wire, .393 Tresco Abbey Gardens, an August visit to, 473 Trichinium Manglesi, 298 Trichosma suavis, 377 Tricuspidaria hexapetala in south of Scotland, 2.32 Tricyrtis pilosa, 414 Tritonia aiircii, 83 ; rosea, 172 Tritonias, 82 Trop;i;olum Fairy Queen, 71 ; Lobbianum. 467, 516 ; polyphyllum, 32 ; speciosum, 02, 198, 260 Tuberoses, 235 Tulip Fairy Queen, 151 ; Vermilion Brilliant, -540 Tulip Tree, the, 322 Tulipa Kaufmanniana, 22 ; persica, 151 Tulips, lifting and storing, 59 Tunica Saxifraga, 298 Turnip Early Forcing White Gem, .524 ; New Model, 91 ; Swan's Egg, 46 ; the Swede, for winter, 46 Turnip=, garden, 382 ; winter, 181 U. Ulex nanus, 214 Ciidi rdoum, Ledbury, Saxifrages at, 137 ; view in the rock garden at, 139 Urceolina pendula, 432 Utricularia Endresi, 133 : montana, 185 Vanda curulea, 115, 345; Denisoniana, .')4 ; Hookeriana, 238 ; Kimballiana, 275 : limbata, 19 ; multiflora, 275 ; Sanderiana, o83 : suavis (Veitch's variety), 422; teres, 116; tricolor planilabris, 331 Vanilla planifolia, 366, ,378 ; the cultivation of, 25 V^egetable supply, the autumn, 262 Vegetables at Bristol, 448; at Richmond, 16; early, on open borders, 14 ; flavour of, 45 ; scarcity of, 360 Verbena Ellen Willmott, 92, 319 ; veno-a, 460 Verbenas in October, 361 Veronica Diellenbachi, 172; parviflora, 190; Teu- crium dubia, 207 ; virginica, 140 ; Zani-chelli, 71 Veronicas, 267 Victoria Regia at Kew, 208 Vine, the claret-coloured, 267 Vine borders, 104 ; covering early, 393 ; foliage, syringing, .501 Vineries, rats in, .520 Vines, gross growing, 274 ; in autumn, 425 ; mil- dew on, 1.80, 228, 274, 3.57, 482; night air for, 481 ; ornamental, 479 ; protecting the stems of early forced, 392 ; ripening pot, .307 ; treat- ment of young, 109 ; young, stopping, 5.35 Viola hodoracea, 4.30 Violet Al>onnen Neven, 04 ; Gloire d'Hyerus, 04 ; la Valette, 94 ; Luxonne, 94 ; Marie Louise, 530 ; Princess Beatrice, 04 ; Princessede dalles, 04,470; Kusse, 94; The Czar, 91; Victoria, 94 ; Wilson, 94 Violets and hot weather, 241, .333 ; fungus on, 349 ; in pots, 4.33 ; in the south of France, 04 ; single, 497 ; sweet, 519 ; two fine, 409 Vitex Agnus-castus, .321 Vitis amurensis, 425 ; amurensis, 436 ; arizonica, 425 ; ari-.onii'i , 427 ; heterophy Ua and its varieties, 5 ; heterophy ilahumulifolia, 5, 3(i5, 426, 488 ; h. variegata, .5 ; h. raricgata, 5 ; inconstans, 353 ; riparia, 425 ; riparia, 425 ; serianiefolia, 425 ; serianii folia, 427; cinijera rar. taciniu.ia, 425 W. Wall, a, covered with Clematis montana, 108; gar- dc.nini/, 1,59 Walls, garden, .535 ; trellis for, 537 Walnuts, keeping, 272, 3o7 Warscewiczella Wendlandi, 236 Wasps, 261, 322 ; and their destruction, 230 Water Lily, Froebels, 71 ; the American, l.')2; tin: Blue Star, 97 Water Lilies and their enemies, 139 ; at Wisley, 516 ; at Wisley, 516 ; of Egypt, 97 Water weed pest, 12 Weather in the west of Scotland, .361 ; in W. Herts, 11, 32, 51, 72, 111, 131, 1.52, 172, 192, 212, 232, 252, 272, 204, 314, .362, 370, 420, 440, 459, 480, 500, .520, 540 Weeds, 152 Weigela rosea, 426 Weybridge, Orchids in bloom at, 422 Whittall, Mr., of Smyrna, 460 Willow, the American Weeping, 114; the Kil- marnock, 114; the yellow Weeping, 114 Willows for their beauty, 114 Winehmore Hill, hardy flowers from, 51, 260 Wineberry, the .Japanese, 2.56, .358 Wire, galvanised, 482 ; trellis for walls, 458 Wood ashes, value of, 369, 450, 511 Wood, ripened, 194, 307 Woodland walks, our, 487 Worms in Leeks and caterpillars in Cabbages, destruction of, 517 Wulfenia Amherstiana, 439 X. Xanlhoceras sorbifolia, 297 Yew, a fine, 4.39 ; tree at Shnghorough, Stajlord, 321 ; at Shugboroujh, boh o/', 321 ; rapid growth in a, .321 Yucca gloriosa flowering, 4.39 ; recurva, 380 Yuccas and Acanthus, 188; Yucras ajid Araiilhiis at tJifuigloii Jfousr, Worthing, 188 Zauschneria californiea, 191, 231,261, 333,467, 499, 515, 538; c. splendens, 190 Zephyranthes Candida, 172, .365 Zizania aquatica, 361 Zygopetalum Gautieri, 173 ; Mao'iayi, .522 COLOURED PLATES. Acaljpha fanieriana ... Almond, the double Aster alpinus superbus and vars. pink and white... ... ... Camellia Donckelaari andC. Sasanqua vars. Centaureas : 1, C. mosehata alba; 2, C. odorata; 3, C. m. rubra ; 4, C. Margarita'; 5, C. suaveolens C'neraria stellata vars. Clerodendron splendens 62 1-22 328 242 372 304 Fuchsia .Monarch Heath, the alpine forest Heaths, three winter flowering : 1, Erica oodonodes ; 2, E. mediterranea hybrida ; 3, E. carnea Hydrangea Hortensia Mariesi Hypericum -Moserianum Incarvillea Delavayi . Iris Aitchisoni.,. Iris juncea and I. juncea numidiea Lathyrus pubescens 530 Lilium rubellum ... 410 6 Pelargonium Mrs. H. Ci mnell 42 Placea ornata ... ... 510 Primrose Evelyn Aikwr ght ... 142 262 Primroses, double ... 202 390 Rhododendron campy locarpuni ... 182 490 Rhododendron Vaseyi ... 282 4.30 Rose Maman Cochet ... . ... 162 102 Rose Mnie. .lulesGrolez ... 450 470 Tritonia crorata 82 352 Tulipa Kaufmanniana. _ 22 The Gardex.] [Jan. 7, 1899. The Rev. c. Wolley=Dod. Mr. Don was born on the first day of sjiring, 1S2G, at Matlock, both his father ami his mother being natives of Derb3'shire. He has often complained of the many synonyms of garden plants, and of the frequent changes in their names made by botanists ; but he should not forget that in doing this he is throwing stones at others from a glass house, as he himself had three synonyms, and has borne in succession three surnames. Till he was two years old his name was Hurt; then for forty years he bore his mother's name of Wolley, and in 1868 he took the name of Dod, being the surname of his wife's grand- father, of whose small estate at Edge he then became possessor. The Dods were probably aboriginal at Edge ; at any rate, there was no historical record of their first settlement in the place when the Normans conquered the county of Chester and ajjpropriated most of the land. From his early childhood Mr. Dod has been devoted to the love of natural history in all its branches, and was formerly an enthusiastic collector of birds' eggs, birds' skins, and insects before he paid attention to plants ; but he never studied the scientific classification either of animals or plants, being contented to learn by observation the habits and differences of the living things he saw. All his life he has suffered from weak eyesight, an infirmity which has increased with years, and he has never been able to read much or for long together; but his memory, Avhich in boyhood was remarkably retentive, enabled him to get on with lessons at school better than many who were far more studious. Before he left Eton he could stand up when called upon in school and construe an ode of Horace, holding a sham book in his hand without incurring the usual penalty for having no book. Most of his play-time was then spent in fishing or collecting insects, and as soon as mid-day school was over he might be seen sallying forth, generally running, with a fishing-rod or a butterfly net, going to the river or to Windsor Great Park, where he spent much of his time. He once got into serious trouble for bringing to his private room, over one of the shops in Eton, some harmless snakes he had caught in the park, which escaped from the bandbox into which they had been put, and so alarmed the good man of the house, that he went at once to Mr. Dod's tutor and accused "Wolley minor" of attempting to get him and his family " stung to death in their beds." After being for six years first a scholar, then a Fellow of King's College, Cambridge, Mr. Dod married in 1850, and was an assistant master at Eton for thirty years. At the beginning of 1879 he came to reside permanently at Edge. He there devoted a good deal of attention to the cultivation of alpine and other hardy plants, responding heartily to the movement then in progress for restoring those plants to their proper place in country gardens from which they had been ignominiously expelled. Since that time gardening has been with Mr. Dod a constant habit and amusement, and though he has many other occupations, he employs in this pursuit many intervals which might otherwise be passed in idleness, boasting that he IS always to be found gardening when he is doing nothing else. " Having nothing to do " is a malady to which he has never been liable, and he has alwaj^s said that of all the sufferers described by Virgil as punished for their crimes in the nether world, he felt the greatest compassion for the hero who, after an active life of energetic enterprise, was condemned to be idle for ever — Sedet a'ter)inmq'iu' Kcdch'it Infdi.r T/ieseus. As for Mr. Dod's gardening tastes and the plants he grows in the very cold and unpromising clay soil of Edge, enough has been told from time to time in the pages of The Garden to satisfy even those who are more fond of reading than the writer of this notice. He never sends a note on the cultivation of any plant which is not founded on his own experience. Mr. Dod boasts that there is not a plant in his garden which he has not planted with his own hand. . .t.- ^fey- T^r CARD 1^'=^\ No. 1389.— Vol. LIV.] [JULY 2, 1898. OPchard and Fmlt :— Apple Stirling Castle .. ,, Apple trees blighted , . . . Apricots, watering and feed- ing Fruit borders, watering . . Strawberries, layering . . Orchids :~ Anguloa Ruckeri sanguinea Cattleya gigaa Lycaste costata Maxillaria Sanderiana .. Orchidp, notes on Flower :— Flower garden notes . . . . 4 Garden, a ruof 4 Gaulthoria trichophylla . . . . 4 Narcissus, the double Poet's 3 Pansies, Tufted, as cut 5 flowers « 5 Peas, Sweet 4 Pyrethrums 5 Stocks, Brompton 5 Trees and Bhrubs :— Buddlei:is 5 Vitia heterophylla and its varieties h Vitis httropJn/lla varief/ata ^ 5 (Illustrations in Italics.) Garden Florae- Erica oarnca Heath, the alpine forest . Week's Work :— Fruit imder among AS8, work Kit cheiT garden, work in Stove and Greentaonse:— Begonias, double Carnations diseased Posoqueria longiflora Posoqucria lomjifiora Societies \— Royal Horticultural .. .. 10 Public Gardens:— Hampstead Heath, proposed extension of 12 Private grounds public and tho Notes of the Week t- Baptisla australis 12 Campanula pulla 12 Chry-santhemum leucanthe- mum semi-duplex .. .. 12 Cypripedium spectabilo ,, 12 IJiauthns callizonus .. .. Vi Epilobium obcurdatum . . .. 12 Erigeron glaucvis 12 Homburg, a note from . . . . 12 Iris tectorum 13 Lily, a new 13 Polygonum baldschuanicum 1*2 Saxifraga cochlearia .. ,, 12 Sparaxis puleherrima alba . . 12 Mlsoellaneous ;— Carnation Primrose Queen .. 8 Water weed pest 12 Weather in West Herts . . .. 11 Orchard and Fruit Garden. WATERING FRUIT BORDERS. There can be no doubt that in the majority of cases fruit borders of all kinds, both inside and out, are insutticiently watered, and many failures may be traced to this cause alone. In fact, where the borders are properly made and drained it is dithcult to overwater them by any reasonable means, especially outside borders under hot, dry walls. The surface of inside Vine, Peach, or other fruit borders is often deceiving, the syringinr,', damping down, and watering of plants in the house making the sur- face just moist, while below the soil is drier than it should be. Again, when water is given it is often with too sparing a hand, for nothing short of a thorough soaking of every particle of soil will do. In planting young Vines and fruit trees it is especially desirable that the borders be kept moist, though here, of course, one must not run to extremes. But, from a desire to avoid over-watering, I am sure many run into the opposite extreme and give too little. When one considers what a young Vine planted at the bottom rei|uires to maintain the rapid growth we look for, it is obvious that the roots will soon be all over the border in search of moisture, so tliere is little fear of souring by giving them all the water they will take. The time-honoured custom of top-diess- ing newly-planted Vines with horse droppings, leaf-soil, and other materials that soon tread into a pasty, wet mass, is not the best that can be followed by any means. It clogs the passage of air and water and has always an untidy appearance, necessitatingfrequent renewals, with the attendant unpleasantness. Borders sur- faced with bunit refuse give always a better indication of their state as regards moisture, and a short time after watering they can be raked over and all made tidy. A good deal of water is wasted by allowing borders inside and out to get dry and crack away from the walls. This is not sus- pected often, and yet if the top 3 inches or less of the soil were removed it would be plain enough. The water of course rushes through at once to the drainage and is wasted, owing to the lower portion of the border being much drier than the upper. On outside borders a mulch of manure is beneficial, as it keeps the moisture in and does away with some trouble in watering. A great waste frequently occurs in watering with liquid manure, and not only is the valuable manurial property wasted, but the trees are actually injured. Some Peach trees in a neighbouring garden were weak and did not make a satisfactory growth, and the owner, having a ((uantity of house sewage, used it hardly diluted, with the result that the trees are now practically useless. Had the borders been well soaked first with clear water, then given a little of the manure highly diluted, much good would doubtless have resulted, but to give strong manure water to dry roots is a great mistake. The watering of indoor Peach and Vine borders in winter is often neglected, with the result that the trees in spring start weakly and the Vines lack vigour. Outside trees seldom suffer to the same extent from bud- dropping as those under glass, while the former are worst after a dry season. Trees on hot, dry walls, with perhaps a vegetable crop growing to within a foot of their stems, are never so long- lived as others in more open and moist posi- tions. All this points to the fact that root mois- ture, as a rule, is insufficiently provided, both in summer and winter, and has much to answer for in regard to insect attacks, weak growth, bud-dropping and other troubles of the fruit- grower. H. R. Apple Stirling Castle. — This is one of those varieties of Apples which never seem to miss bearing, no matter what the season may be. I have trees of it some twenty-live years old which are equally as constant and prolific now as when they first came into bearing, and I cannot call to mind a season in which fruits of Stirling Castle have been altogether absent from the shelves in the fruit room. Besides being a constant crop- per, it is almost enormously productive, and unless the trees are relieved either by thinning when the fruits are quite small, or at the latest as soon as they begin to be of service, they make but little growth and assume a stunted appear- ance. Heavy crops should always be thinned, as both the size and quality of the fruits retained are considerably enhanced thereby, which is a great consideration when they have to be sent to market. It also pays to feed the trees, and once they come into full bearing feeding can hardly be overdone. This Apple becomes beautifully flushed with red in seasons when sunshine is abundant. It is an excellent cooker, and keeps in good con- dition up to Christmas in a cool store. The only drawback is the fact of the tree being liable to canker when worked on the Paradise stock. When worked on the Doucin stock I find it is free of this disease, and it also makes more free growth. Were I planting a fresh lot of trees I should most decidedly give those on this stock the preference. As a standard on the Crab it makes medium growth, but is quite as pro- lific as when grown in the form of a bush, and the fruits are as a rule highly coloured. — A. W. Watering and feeding Apricots. — The time has arrived when the above should have attention— that is, if fruit of the best quality is wished for. Apricot trees require rather more water than Peaches to enable the fruits to lay on plenty of pulp and to become filled with an abundance of the rich luscious juice peculiar to the fruit. If water is not supplied liberally the flesh is apt to be tough instead of semi-melting, and juice is then also sadly deficient. To obtain size in the fruit it is necessary that the trees have assistance at the roots in the shape of manurial aids in addition to having free supplies of water. The latter should always be given in sufficient quantity to well moisten the border down to the drainage, and repeated as often as the subsoil tester gives indications that further supplies are required. Regarding the kind of stimulants to use, this will depend on circumstances, because if liquid manure is plentiful there will be no necessity to resort to artificials. In the absence of the former by all means use the latter, and in all cases see that the soil is moistened before apply- THE GARDEN. [Jdly 2, 1898. ing them. To apply liquid or chemical manures of a quick acting nature, or such as become readily soluble, to a dry border is sheer waste, as they find their way into the drains before the roots of the trees have had time to benefit thereby. Another matter which should be attended to is loosening the surface of the alleys before water- ing, particularly if it is trodden hard. This will ensure a more even distribution of the water and allow of the whole area of the border becoming properly moistened. If necessary, apply a fresh mulch, or if this has been neglected, get it done as soon as watering is completed. The trees also greatly appreciate a washing, and if this can be done daily whenever the weather is fine, it greatly assists in keeping down earwigs and woodlice besides freshening up the foliage. — A. W. Blighted Apple trees. — Many ' of the standard Apple trees hereabouts seem so badly attacked with blight and aphides, that they look as if scorched, the foliage being browned and falling. This is not confined to Apples only, for Oaks are similarly affected. The crop, where there was a prospect of one, cannot stand against such a check to the tree's growth, and next season's crops must be jeopardised by the' same influences. Garden trees could be syringedj with an insecticide or a petroleum emulsion, but large orchard standards cannot be so easily dealt with. The prospects are not nearly so favourable for a good Apple crop now as they were only a short time ago. Trees everywhere and of almost every kind flowered beautifully and the fruit ap- peared to have set freely. The asjiect has changed considerabl}', although even now there are some sorts well furnished with fruit and free from insect attacks. Lord Suffield, London Pippin, and Yorkshire Greening are some of those most badly attacked. The heavy thunderstorms occurring at midsummer may have a good effect in dislodging many insects ai d clearing the trees of the soot- like mould which infests the leaves.^W. S., Bood Ashton, Troivbridge. take up far less space, an advantage until the fruit is all gathered. The most frequent mistake in this mode of culture is leaving the young plants until they are badly potbound before re-potting, and once the roots get firmly coiled in small pots they are no better than unlayered runners, either for planting out or potting on for forcing. They should feel their pots, as it is termed, but after this the sooner they are potted or planted the better. ^ ^■ Orchids. LAYERING STRAWBERRIES. RoY.\L SovEREKiN is the earliest variety I grow and the first fruits have not ripened until to-day (June 21) in the open. This is later than usual, for I usually am able to gather all the best of the fruit before commencing to layer the runners for forcing and planting new (juarters, whereas they are almost ready now to layer. It is, of course, a great advantage to have a reserve plot for supplying layers, but, unfortunately, most of us have to take them from the fruiting beds. For forcing it is the rule in many places to u.se the fruiting pots at first, but it is not the best way, especially during a wet season when the whole of the soil is soaked through by rains before the roots are half through it. Plants layered in small pots take up a good deal less room on the bed and do not cause much more trouble in watering in a dry season. In a wet one the advantages of the small pots are plainly seen by the bettor colour of the foliage. The subsequent repotting is, of course, a big undertaking where a large number of plants is forced, but it is not all loss even here, as the earlier work at a busy season is less with small pots. It is not often that an elaborate mixture can be prepared, nor is it necessary. Kitchen garden soil has to help out with the loam here at any rate, and it is rammed firmly into 3-inch and 4 inch pots. For a week or two beforehand this makes a job for wet days, and the pots can be stacked up closely and covered with old mats, when they will not dry up much. There is no need to drain the pots, but a lump of the more fibrous portions of the loam may be put in the bottom when filling them. On the bed a man and boy are needed, the latter to hand the pots and stones or pegs, while the man layers the runners. A man who is accustomed to the work does it very quickly, an important point being to see that the pots are stood level to receive water, while the closer they are arranged the better, as they keep moister, stand firmer, and NOTES ON ORCHIDS. The free-flowering nature of Cymbidium Lowia- num and the fact that it carries its bloom- spikes for many weeks are apt, in the case of plants not in the most robust health, to lead to exhaustion. Rather than allow this the spikes should be cut after a fortnight or three weeks' flowering. On the other hand, strong, vigorous specimens carry their spikes with ease until the flowers begin to lose colour, when they may be cut and placed in water, where they last for a considerable time. The tall spikes look very pretty and natural arranged in a large bowl with foliage of Arundo conspicua. The flowering house has been very full during the past three months, but when midsumiuer is past the number of species and varieties in bloom begins to decrease. If anything approach- ing crowding has been allowed with such plants as Cattleyas or Liulia purpurata, these will need a little careful treatment now. Standing thickly, the light available has only reached one part of the plant, and as more shade is used than in the growing quarters this will also be felt, as well as a slight exhaustion consequent on flowering and a rather dry state of the atmosphere. If any are to be repotted they may witli advantage go back to the growing quarters for a time to recuperate before disturbing them, and it is worthy of note that all such as Cattleya Mossi;e, some of the summer-flowering hybrids in this genus, and L;elio-Cattleya should after this date be encouraged as much as possible. Great care now is necessary in shading plants of the habit of Promen;>;as, Paphinias and others, that, though enjoying a good light at all times, are especially apt to be injured by bright sunlight. Compared with the majority of intermediate and warm house plants they need much more sliade, .simply because the foliage is thin in texture, lacking the leathery feel of that of Cattleyas or the hard surface of that of Dendrobiunis. It is a sensitive class of leafage in fact, easily injured by extremes of sun or shade. These two after flowering will often need attention to the comjiost, the Paphinias especially being averse to anything sour or close about their roots. The roots are singularly large and fleshy, and to push through a hardened lump of peat is simply impossible. I like plenty of chopped Sphagnum Moss with these, as it does not sour easily and may be more readily removed than peat when it decays. Sound fibrous loam, too, of that .soft yet tough character termed ".silky," is a very useful ad- dition to the C(jmpost and may be used in equal proportions with the materials named, plenty of crocks being added to facilitate the passage of air and water. Dendrobiums, despite the cold, unseasonable weather recently experienced, are making good progress, and I am more and more inclining to the opinion that a fairly cool irijime at first, changing to more heat as autumn draws near, is what these Orchids delight in. A close and stufl'y atmosphere at first causes a weak growth, but open the houses at G o'clock in the morning and let the temperature rise naturally and gradually, at the same time keeping abundance of moisture in the air, and growth of the right .sort — hardened as it is evolved — will result. Insects, too, will be conspicuously absent, and this at least is a step in the right direction. Those having many short stem-like pseudo- bulbs, in the way of D. pulchellum or D. Falconeri, and the more recent D. Victoria Regina, should by now have made some pro- gress and will soon be rooting. If not already done, the compost .should be seen to, allowing a bit of sweet, new material about the base^ of the stems. If any require potting, it is those, like D. superbum, that flower later than the usual run, and have besides a long pseudo-bulb or stem to make up. The smaller- growing section of Oncidium from the West Indies, such as O. pulchellum and O. tetra- petalum, are often neglected now, and this, with a naturally weak constitution, has led them to be considered even more difficult of cultivation than they really are. If more care were taken to prevent checks by draughts and loss of atmospheric moisture — if, in fact, they were kept drier at the root and in a more regular atmosphere — they would certainly be more satis- factory, and, as is well known, they are very beautiful. It has been necessary to use much more fire-heat than usual, and even in the cool house in the latter part of Blay and beginning oi June it was necessary to have a little warmth in the pipes. But now that more seasonable weather is with us the usual summer treatment will be practised, i.e., heavy shading and free ventilation on warm, moist nights, with abundance of atmospheric moisture that settles upon the plants in the shape of dew. In ail the other departments a full growing tem- perature will be maintained, the Mexican house running up well with sun-heat tempered by abundant moisture at the roots and in the atmosphere, most of the Ltelia species grown therein being quite unshaded. H. Anguloa Ruckeri sanguinea. — The blos- soms of this species are very richly coloured, the inside of the segments especiallj', being of a deep bloodred, against which the pale column and lip show up rather conspicuously. It is a free-flower- ing and easily-grown plant, though with possibly a little less vigour than the type, and may be cultivated in an intermediate house. A fairly good compost may be allowed, a proportion of good loam being of great assistance. Water freely during the summer, and in winter give just enough to keep the pseudo-bulbs plump. It is a native of Colombia, and was first imported many years ago by Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting, Lycaste costata. — The large and handsome flowers of this Lycaste are among the finest in the genus, and the plant, moreover, has an im- posing appearance when healthy. The pseudo- bulbs are each .'{ inches or more high, bearing large, handsome foliage. The flower-spikes are shorter, the whole flower white, with a prettily fimbriated lip. A native of the Peruvian Andes, it thrives well in the cool hou.se, where it may be grown in equal parts each of loam fibre, peat, and chopped Sphagnum, a good sprinkling of rough crocks and charcoal being mixed or laid in when potting. The dr.ainage must be good, as when growing freely the plants take a lot of water. It was in- troduced in 1854. Maxillaria Sanderiana. — A good form of this fine species comes from ".I. R.," the flower of the usual size and, if possible, deeper in the colour of the spots at the lip and in the petals. Although it may do as well in other positions, I have lately noted some remarkably fine plants grown in a much warmer house than usual. I ne\er like placing these Andean Orchids in heat, for they are singularly subject to insect attacks there, and although it is true thrips can be much Jdly 2, 1898.] THE GAPJ)EN. 3 more easily kept under than formerly, no doubt it is a weakened condition of the plants in the first instance that induces the attack. For this reason the plants are safest in a cooler house, progress here being; more likely to be steady and main- tivined. At the same time I believe this species will start more freely and prod\ice more flowers if the temperature in winter is not allowed to go below. "iir. In a dark house and a low tempera- ture in winter the plants sicken, but if grown in baskets well up to the light and the air kejit moving about them they will be satisfactory. It was introduced by Messrs. Sander in 1SS4.— H. Cattleya gigas. — This is certainly one of the finest of the labiata Cattleyas, and a welcome addition to the plants in flower. Many tine varieties exist, but it is certainly less variable than most species. No matter how this species is treai^ed as to watering, temperature, or other details, there will always be individual plants growing out of season, and this leads to its flowering at \arious times of the j ear, and not keeping so closely to a stated period as is usual with C. Mossi:e, C. Trian^e, and others of this class. Provided they flower upon the unseason- able growth it matters little— indeed, it has the advantage of prolonging the flowering season ; but though many successful growers manage to induce their plants to do so, it is not, unfortunately, always the case, and this points to the advisa- bility of keeping them dormant if possible in autumn, and also that of thoroughly ripening the growth, for without a doubt a well-ripened pseudo- bulb is far more likely to push a flowering growth than one that has been grown in dense shade. Among the plants I have, one of a tine type of imperialis always makes two growths a year, and though the autumn-made set never produces a flower, that made in spring never fails to bloom strongly and well. — H. Flower Garden. THE DOUBLE POET'S NARCISSUS. I TAKE it when j-our correspondent " Dorset " enquired as to the behaviour of the Gardenia- flowered Narcissus recently in the pages of The Garhen", he had in mind its behaviour in Briti.sh gardens and British soils. The quan- tity found upon the markets is but little guide in the matter, as the flowers can be packed when fully expanded with but little damage. Furthermore, they may be — and are — .sent in large quantities in the expanding stages often long distance.s, as I know full well from personal experience, to be opened in water under glass and much nearer London. There is a twofold advantage in this, the bulbs being grown in a soil and climate more generally favourable to their well-being than our own, and possibly also where land and labour are much cheaper. Then again, carriage is greatly reduced, and this, with the enhanced purity of the flowers when opened in the manner above noted, renders them far more useful than those grown entirely in the open ground. In the above manner quantities come from a long dis- tance, and the market supply should not act as a guide in respect to this Narciss flowering generally in the British Isles this year. At the same time there is proof fi-om widely dif- ferent, though equally reliable, source.s that this valuable and late kind has been giving of its useful flowers in greater numbers this spring than is its wont, even after producing evidence earlier that the flowering scapes were present in considerable numbers, a fact which is most perplexing when finally the very large majority are affected with the so- called " blindness." With freer flowering this spring many will anxiously desire to know the reason, the more so because it is obvious from in(|uiries, as much as from opinions already given in the gardening press, that this valuable double white Narci.ss is behaving well this year, irrespective of the soil, the position and likewise the locality in wliieli the plants are growing. From my own inquiries I am able to .state it is flowering (|uite near to London and on heavy soils, again in other places where the soil is very sandy and fine, again where but a thin layer of poor soil covers the chalk that is below, and again where a light loam overlies gravel of several feet in thickness. That it should flower so well in all these descriptions of soils would ap|)ear to place soil in a secondary position, at least in .some respects. And for the general success of the cro]j of flowers we nuist, I think, look to the .season, the congenial conditions of the weather in particular, and more especially to the nioi.sture-laden warmth during the nascent period of the petals. Jlany who have had a good crop of flowers this year have added nothing to their usual cultural routine to j)roduce it, and these at least must look beyond culture for the cause, inasmuch as the heavy mulch of manure given each year has not always produced a result similar to that experienced this year. But the food thus sup- plied has certainly not been thrown away, rather has it gone to storing up greater supplies of energy and vigour in the plant, for, perhaps, no Narcissus is so capable — and with benefit to itself — of assimilating rich food supjilies as is this one. This is a fact that should not be lost sight of in planting. There is also a tendency to perpetual root action, peculiar to several others of this section, and this may in some degree account for its semi-voracious habit. One point in the culture of this variety, to which I have in past years given some promi- nence, is the necessity for having the bulbs thoroughly established before flowering can at all be expected, and, in making inquiries re- cently, it is significant that the bulbs are well established in their places in each and every instance — some two, and others three years, one case even more than this. Under these circumstances I should be glad to know if any reader of The Garden has secured a good bloom from bulbs planted during the autumn of last year. That it should be essential with one kind out of the great army of Narcissus to get it thoroughly e.stabli.'Jied before its flower- ing can under any circumstances be depended upon, is something so foreign to the family as a whole, as to make it worth recording. The primary conditions to success are to plant rather deeply — 8 inches at least where the soil permits — very rich soil and one of a heavy nature preferred, and to avoid disturbance at the root. After the second year a good winter mulch should be given each season. Touching the food supply and its value upon the variety in question, I am enabled to give some very valuable and instructive information gathered in a conversation with the Rev. G. H. Engleheart ([uite recently. It is instructive becau.se it proves the value of the mulch in cer- tain conditions of soil, for while Mr. Engle- heart produces not only the most graceful and beautiful flowers of the whole genus, together with flowers of the very largest size, it will surprise not a few to know that the staple soil of Mr. Engleheart's garden is poor and hungry — a very thin layer indeed overlying, I believe, the chalk subsoil. In a portion of this garden Mr. Engleheart has a bed of .several hundreds of the above kind which have pro- duced really grand flowers this year, and to an extent hardly, if ever, before known. The flowers are of the finest possible description, and their excellence is attributed in no small degree to the system of nnilching with bono- meal to a large extent. In this case also the liulbs are well establi.shed. A portii'U of this rather extensive lot extends to the rooting l)iiund.ary of a large Horse Chestnut, and in describing the dill'erence Mr. Engleheart observed it was easy to define tlio limits to which the roots absorbed the food supplies from the Narcissus bed almost to an inch, the root-fibres from the Chestnut doubtless having rapidly encroached upon the richer food sujiplies in the Narcissus ground, and to an extent not anticipated when planting the bulbs. AUthi-iis, of cour.se, very natural, and if not, indeed, an in.stance of the survival of the fittest is at least an example of the survival of the strongest. But, having found so much, the question arises as to how we may in years to come assist this use- ful late Narcissus to its flowering, particularly when unfavourable weather prevails. Rich and good food can readily be given, ytt we cannot com pen.sate for cold, and, above all, harsh drying winds with frosty nights, should such prevail at the moment the flower-scape is apparent, say when a foot or more high. This is, I think, the most critical stage for these things, and doubtless the warm, moist weather this spring in conjunction with other things has favouied their flowering in no small degree. Nor should the fact be overlooked that gene- rally in the north the blindne.ss .so-called is less than in southern counties, and the question arises whether, by being somewhat later in appearing, and therefore showing for flower, more congenial weather is experienced, which in turn is helpful to the plants. In any case, much of this may another year be determined by allowing the bulbs now flowering to remain, or some of them, and by giving the usual mulch again in the autumn ensuing. In this way neither the quality nor ciuantity of the food supplies would be lacking, and the flowering in 1899 would in a considerable degree depend on climatic or atmospheric congeniality. We can so ill afibrd to be without this valuable Narciss that it is worth every endeavour to secure a good supply of bloom annually. Whatever the causes leading up to its flowering so well and so abun- dantly this spring in gardens diflering widely in soils and surroundings as well as cultural details, we are at least grateful for a full crop of the large, lieautiful and pure, as well as frag- rant blossoms. — E. Jenkins, Hamptun Hill. Of this one can now write with confidence, as the flowering season is over and it has been a thoroughly good one. I have been for years, and with varying results, experimenting with this plant, and, having a large number of bulbs to deal with, I have tried all the methods of treatment which I have seen advised. The most successful results have been given by bulbs which were planted last year 0 inches deep and with a heavy dressing of decayed manure buried 6 inches below the bulbs. With these there have been no blanks and the flowers have been very full and fine. In plant- ing, the top soil was removed and the manure dug into the bottom spit ; the beds were next trodden over and the bulbs distributet .ag.ain plant so deeply. Another lot planted in the ordinary way, 4 inches deep in fair soil, without THE GARDEN. [July 2, 1898. manure, threw up many flower-stems, but did not succeed in opening a single flower. In each case bulbs were selected as nearly as possible alike in size. On each bed and group half the spikes had the points of the flower-sheaths nipped ofl" before any of the embryo flowers began to wither, but this made not the slightest dilierence to the flowers and will be with me included with other fallacies disproved, among which also may be placed the notion that the bulbs dislike removal. The results attained confirm the opinion based on former experi- ments, that the roots in light sandy soils require manure in quantity, within reach, but not applied close to the base of the bulbs, and that lifting and replanting, if done while the bulbs are dormant, so far from doing any injury, are really a great help, provided the soil given is in good heart. Starvation is too often the lot of many home-grown bulbs in private gardens. ■ — J. C. Tallack, Livermere Park, Bury St. Edmunds. FLOWER GARDEN NOTES. Phlox sfbulata. — I do not remember a finer dis- play of Phlox subulata and its varieties than has been furnished this season, and a noticeable point is, that in addition to the splendid mass of colour, the display was very long-sustained, attributable no doubt to the dull weather and copious showers. That these alpine Phloxes are particularly adapted for carpeting dry poor borders is evident from the annual mass of flower to be seen in the little Queen Anne's garden at Hampton Court, where the soil is naturally dry and light, and anything in the way of stimulant, either in the ground or on the surface, is conspicuous by its absence. Their adaptability as a carpet for large beds already partially planted with the tall summer and autumn flowering Phloxes has already been advocated in "Flower Garden Notes." I should like to add that where used for this purpose it is not advisable to plant too thickly ; leave sufficient room so that a small hoe can be worked between the plants. Such beds once planted may remain undisturbed for, say, three years, and if the alpine Phloxes are set too thickly it will necessitate hand weeding instead of hoeing, a small matter perhaps, but one worth consideration in all places that have to be worked with a small staff. The introduction of new varieties has given us several dift'erent shades of colour. They go now from the white form through various mauves and pinks to the purple of atropurpurea, and may be selected accordingly to contrast with the taller plants. They may be projiagated now that the flowering season is over, and will make nice littlejstuft" for autumn plant- ing. For place and compost suitable for these, also later for Pinks, Tufted Pansies, Antir- rhinums, Pentstemons, and similar things, a two or three light frame, or an extern) )orised frame that can if necessary be covered, should be chosen, and the contents of all boxes used for annuals and bedding plants emptied into it. Add a fair proportion of fresh leaf-soil and ordinary red sand, give a good treading, insert the cuttings firmly, and shade for a time from hot sun. In noting above that beds of Phloxes once formed ma}- remain undisturbed for three j-ears, I am aware that such treatment may not be con- ducive to the production of exhiliition spikes ; liat if the plants are well done at the outset — that is, if the soil is naturally light and dry, they get a bit of heavier compost, in the shape of two parts loam and one of cow manure, worked round them at |)lanting time — get a good mulching each year, and have the shoots thinned out to seven or eight of the strongest, a very fine mass of colour and very fair individual spikes will be the result. CARN.iTioN's. — Considerable losses are to be seen on Carnation borders, especially in the case of some varieties, and the dark-coloured wire- worm is evidently responsible for the same ; at least, in all cases where investigation is made round the miffy plants one or more of these in- sects is to be found. The growth, too, is some- what thin and weakly, but this, perhaps, is hardly to be wondered at considering the weather we have experienced through May and June. There is, however, the promise of a good display of bloom, three and four stout flower-stems being in evidence on many of the plants. Staking will soon be necessary, and should be performed so that the flowers are seen to the best advantage, avoiding undue formality, but at the same time securing individual stems, so that they are not broken down by heavy rain or wind, flowers splashed with dirt being practically worthless. Although in the majority of cases a large number of new named sorts cannot be annually grown, it is a good plan to have just a few on trial, together with a small batch of seedlings, with the view of weeding out any sorts that either from calyx- bursting, tender constitution, or long-delayed rooting from the layer are not altogether desir- able. It is not advisable to dispense with named sorts in favour of seedlings until the latter have a second trial, in order to ascertain if the favour- able opinion formed of them can be thoroughly verified. Hardy perenmials from seed. — Now that planting is at an end, attention may be directed during the present month to the sowing of any hardy perennials not on hand that are likely to be in request for another season. Such sowing may be recommended from a double standpoint. In the first place, seedlings of good things thus acquired may take the place in prominent borders of more common plants ; and in the second, be cause a batch planted in some outlying part of the garden is always acceptable for cutting. A por tion of a narrow slip garden, especially if the soil here is naturally deep and moist, will be found useful for the purpose, and the species and varie ties of the same can be planted here in beds of 4 feet, 5 feet, or 6 feet, as may be deemed advis able, with intervening alleys of 2 feet to admit of cutting the flowers without too much treading on the beds. To the lover of hardy plants, propagation of this kind is pecu- liarly interesting, and the seedlings are watched with keen interest right away from their first appearance above ground until the flower is clearly defined. I prefer boxes to the open ground for sowing, the double advantage being that while yet in a young stage there is better opportunity of warding oft' the attacks of insects, and, in the case of seed-sowing, the chance to particularise in the covering given to different seeds. The seeds are sometimes very tiny and naturally only require the least bit of soil on the top. The strips of wood at the bottom of the boxes should be fairly close together, not more than a quarter of an inch apart. A few small crocks may first be placed, followed by an inch of rough leaf-soil, the remainder of the compost consisting mainly of old potting soil, not too dry, to which have been added a bit of fresh leaf-mould and a little sand ; the sur- face should be even throughout and pressed fairly firm. Prepare the boxes as it might be to- day, give a soaking of water, and sow to-morrow, taking care the seed is evenly covered, and, as hinted above, to discriminate as to the depth of covering according to the size of seed. Place the boxes in a frame facing north, and shade in bright weather. Be careful the scjuares of glass are intact, as water running in on the boxes will wash out the smaller seeds, and, as germination takes place at various periods, the boxes must be carefully watched. It is not necessary to occupy space with a list of things, because the majority of herbaceous plants can be raised in this way, and the list would naturally be a long one. It may, however, be pointed out that, with the demand for cut flowers ever on the increase, pre- ference should be given to those things that can be utilised for this purpose as well as to make a display in the garden. The selection should also be comprehensive so far as the dift'erent seasons are concerned, and may include the many species and varieties available between the first blooms of the Doronicums and the waning flowers on the panicles of the Sea Lavenders. I noted above that a planting to furnish cut bloom might find a place in a slip garden. If there are trees it may not be advisable to plant close up to them, but many of the things that can be selected will be benefited by partial shade. Among the things sown this year whose progress will be watched with special interest are extra good strains of Aquilegia, Pentstemon, and Lupinus polyphyllus, two new Geums, Sidalcea Listeri and Hedysarum multijugum. It is hardly necessary to add that not the least interesting point in this propaga- tion of hardy flowers is that it is within the reach of all flower-lovers who can command a small cold frame to receive the seed-boxes and one of somewhat larger size for pricking out the seedlings until they can be consigned to perma- nent quarters. E. BurrelIj. C'laremont. Gaultheria trichophylla. — I sent you a note a short time since on the free flowering of Gaultherii trichophylla. There is now a fine crop of the beautiful blue berries, each half an inch long and three-eighths of an inch in diameter. They are so hidden by the foliage that I hope a good many will escape the birds. Genista dalmatica is flowering freely for the first time in my rock garden. — E. C. Buxton, Bettivs-y-Coed. Sweet Peas. — I question if there is much gain in sowing these beautiful annuals in small pots with a view to forwarding the flowers, for it is not easy to get them into blossom before the garden is gay with other things, and the transplanted rows have never quite the vigour of those left quite undisturbed. If a way could be found of prolonging their season without at the same time injuring the individual plants operated on it. would be a great help, but to do this a certain amount of warmth would be necessary in the ear- lier stages, and this is fatal to vigour or continued health and a free-flowering condition. I sowed about a dozen of the newer varieties in pots in a cool house this season and kept them quite cool until they were planted out, but though they are as strong, or nearly so, as rows sown in the open, one will be in flower almost as soon as the other. The improvement in varieties is very great, evin the common or mixed seed producing very fine and highly-coloured flowers, while their value as cut flowers needs no word from me. But often they are spoilt by arranging them with heavy foliage of some kind, when they would look much nicer without any. A few of their own tendrils and stems are prettiest, while a spray or two of Gypsophila has .also a pretty efl'ect. — H. A roof garden. — As I introduced the subject of roof gardens to the readers of The Garde.m last year, I was much interested and pleased to see what should eventually be a charming place of the kind in Trinity College Gardens, Dublin. A portion of the yard was to be roofed over with iron, and Mr. Burbidge conceived the happy idea of adding to this a good coating of concrete and converting it into an Iris roof garden. There are about 2 inches or .3 inches of concrete and this is surfaced over with from 3 inches to 4 inches of road scrapings, in which the Irises were planted last October. It was not the most suitable time for Iris planting, but in gardening one has to do many things not according to rule, and although the Irises are as yet dwarfed in growth, they do not seem to have suffered. They comprise some of the best forms of what are popularly called the (German Irises. These Irises do not appear to be flowering so freely as usual this season, but those on the roof garden referred to are in this respect more satisfactory than those on the borders in the College gardens. Seeds of Aubrietias and other plants have been sown among the Irises, and it is to be expected that some pretty undergrowth will be produced from these seeds. In the meantime grass has sprung up freely among the plants of Iris and looks quite in keeping with the flowers. It is doubtful, indeed, if there is anything better than grass as a groundwork for the bold leaves and stems of the Flag Irises. — S. Arnott. July 2, 1898.] THE GARDEN. PYRETHRUMS. TiiK wet spring and early summer }iave suited these moisture-loving plants, and they have for the past fortnight been extremely beautiful. I do not grow the named varieties, but seedlings, and some very tine plants may bo raised in this way when the strain is good. Few flowers are more beautiful in the garden or cut on long stems and simply arranged with a little of their own foliage. Their culture is very simple, seedlings raised in January flowering the first season and making fine clumps by the second. Where the soil is very heavy, a little road-grit and leaf-soil, or anything of a lightening nature that happens to be at hand, may be dug in. If the clumps become too large, or if there is a gooil variety which it is necessary to propagate, the clump should be taken up in early spring when the growth is starting and care- fully divided with the knife. Every crown will make a new plant, of course, but it is not often advisable to cut tliem up so small as this. As showing how easily thej' are grown, I had occasion to lift some old clumps after the flower-buds were visible, and though late for dividing, they were and foliage are cut in suffioiont length they are most ornamental. Some seven or eight years ago I called on Mr. Igguldcn, who was then at Marston, and there 1 first saw them used in this way. Since that time I have used them largely. I grow them in self-colours principally, as these are far more effective. Recently I noticed some vases and big bowls in our drawing-room. These had a fringe of greenery round the out-'ide of the bowl. The Pansies were cut with long stems and arranged lightly, one colour in each receptacle. Although there was a goodly number of cut flowers of many kinds, both from stoves and the open garden, there was nothing to equal the Tufted Pansies. In low glasses arranged with a little light greenery, one colour in each, I find them most useful for placing on the dinner-table. Another recommendation is their enduring nature. I have had them stand in a vase from ten to twelve days by giving them fresh water occasionally. They will stand a week and look well in a warm room. When one comes to look at the length of time these continue in bloom, and that they can be grown in any good soil, one Vilis heterophylla variegata. Engraved for The Garden /rom a plwtograph sent by Mr. J. N. Qerrard, Elizabeth, New Jersey. too large for planting, and each one was split into three or four, according to size. They were carefully planted and watered and they never ' looked back, being now in full flower and as fine I as any in the garden. The dripping season has been all in their favour, of course, but I am inclined to think a good deal of root-action takes place in spring, which helps the plants to re-establish themselves, otherwise they could hardly look so well. In the colours there is considerable varia- tion, but all are pretty and worth growing. The single kinds are first favourites with me, and some of the semi-doubles with long petals and a pretty quilled centre are as fine as a .Japanese Anemone- flowered Chrysanthemum. H. Tufted Pansies as cut flowers.— Those who have not used these for cutting have lost sight of one of their best features. When cut they are not often used in private gardens. They hive comparatively no value when the blooms are picked ofT singly, as all the natural beauty of the flower is lost. But when the shoots with flower wonders they are not more extensively grown. Last season I raised seed in a box and pricked the seedlings out, and now I have some most useful colours to cut from out of these seedlings. It does not injure them to cut the shoots, as others soon follow to keep up the supply. — Doksbt. BromiDton Stocks. — In a recent issue "W. S." was speaking of the behaviour of these in his gar- den, and how disappointed he was in having so many singles. I can assure him he is not alone in this way. An evening or two ago I saw a big patch in a cottager's allotment of the white kind, and out of several score there was not a double amongst them. I asked him where he obtained his seed from, and he told me from a lady who lived in a cottage and had a liking for these. At the time he saw them in bloom there was a goodly number of doubles amongst them. I am under the impression the time when they arc in bloom and the state of the weather have much to do with the future crop of seed, as the pollen from the doubles may not got to the singles.^I). Trees and Shrubs. VITIS IlETKR(rt'IIYLLA AND ITS VARIETIES. TiiK tyjiical Vitis Iieteropliylla is not very much grciwn in gardens, certainly not .so much as eitlier of the two varieties hero mentioned. It is a free-growing Vine of medium size with leaves of a lustrous deep green, sufl'u.sed, especially when young, with a reddish tinge, whicli is still more pronounced on the veins, midrib and Icaf-.stalks. Tlie leaves are usually deeply three-lobed, but sometimes almost entire. It is a connnon plant in .Fapan, where it was noticed and described by Thunberg over 100 years ago. The fruits are small and blue. V. n. VARiKGATA-of which an engraving is here given— is one of the prettiest of all Vines with coloured foliage. Unfortunately, it is neither so strong-growing nor so hardy as the green- leaved type. When grown in the open air it should have a sheltered, but not unduly shaded position. It is only in such a situa- tion and in warm seasons that it is seen in any great beauty out-of-doors. It is frequently grown in pots for greenhouse decoration during the spring and summer months, and its foliage is at that time very beautifully coloured. The green ground of the leaf is mottled and blotched with delicate pink or almost pure white, the young shoots, too, being of a pretty pinkish purple. It appears to have been introduced from Japan about sixty years since, for it is recorded as being in cultivation in Rollisson's nursery at Tooting in the early "forties." On the whole, the most attractive form of Vitis heterophylla is the variety V. n. niTMULiFOLiA. — It was first discovered in North China by Dr. Bunge about thirty years ago ; since then it has been found in .Japan. The leaves are not so large as those of the ordinary V. heterophylla and the deep Hop- leaf - like lobing is more constant. But its chief beaut}' is in its fruits. These are about the size of small Peas and of a lovely shade of turquoise-blue. The plant requires a place specially made or selected for it. An undue luxuriance of growth has to be guarded against, as this is prejudicial to the for- mation of fruit. The late Mr. Ingram used to grow it at Belvoir in pots in a greenhouse for the sake of the fruits. This is not necessary, near London at all events, but a place on a south wall should be given it for the proper ripening of the wood. There is a plant at Syon House which, I believe, fruits freely almost every year. I remember seeing it very IJeautiful there about four years ago, and it was planted against a wall in a narrow border close to a hard and well-used path. \\'hen merely trained up a stake in the open ground it bears a little fruit, but never with that freedom which makes it at its best the most beautiful of the ornamental fruit- ing Vines. W. J. B. BUDDLEIAS. Considering its size (for it comprises about seventy species) the genus Buddleia is of but little importance in gardens. A great many of the species are tropical and sub-tropical and of a nature that makes them become weedy and gaunt in habit when cultivated under glass. One species from Jladagascar (B. mada- gascariensis) is occasionally grown in warm greenhouses for the sake of its long spikes of bright orange-yellow flowers. There are, how- ever, some half-a-dozen species besides that can be grown out-of-doors in the southern parts of the kingdom, and which, altliough not in the first rank among hardy shrubs, are well worth growing. This applies especially to B. globosa, which is quite distinct from all other hardy shrubs ; and some of the others have their value THE GARDEN. [JcLT 2, 1898. enhanced by flowering at a season when tlie bulk of hardy shrubs is past. Tiie generic name was given by Linn.ams to commemorate the Rev. Adam Buddie, who was atone time vicar of Parnbridge, in Essex, and died in 1715, and of whom it was written more than 100 years ago that he was "an ingenious English botanist whose dried collection in the British Museum is still resorted to in doubtful cases." Mr. W. B. Hemsley observes of the genus Buddleia that it is one of the most sharply defined in the vege- table kingdom, and that it is, indeed, so distinct that it is not easy to determine its closest relationship to other genera. None of the species here mentioned is strictly woody, the growths retaining a semi-herbaceous character for a year or two. Buddleias do not want a soil of more than moderate richness and prefer the sunniest positions available. Some can only be satisfactorily grown against a wall. All of them can be increased by means of cuttings. B. CoLvii.LEi.— One of the most interesting plants (and there are many such) in Mr. (Jum- bleton's garden at Belgrove, near Queenstown, is a large plant of this Himalayan Buddleia. Mr. Gumbleton enjoys, I believe, the distinction of being the first to flower it in Europe. It has since flowered with Mr. Chambers, of Haslemere, and perhaps elsewhere. Unfortunately, it is not quite hardy near London, although against a sheltered wall it survives such winters as the two last ones, but it has never yet got strong enouo-h to flower. Indoors, on the other hand, it grows too soft and succulent and the shoots do not ripen sufficiently to flower. Mr. Gumbleton has his plant growing against a garden wall, of which it covers, it I recollect aright, a space some 10 feet or 12 feet in length. Of the Buddleias that can be grown in the open air in the British Isles this is by far the most beautiful. Sir J. Hooker has even said that it is the handsomest of Himalayan shrubs, and that it is impossible to exaggerate its beauty as seen on the borders of the Sikkim forests covered with pendulous masses of rose-purple or crimson flowers. There it is found at altitudes of 9-12,000 feet, and is a large shrub or even a small tree as much as 30 feet high. Its leaves are 5 inches to 7 inches long, lanceolate, the margins set with shallow teeth, dark green on the upper surface, paler below. The younger parts of the plant are covered with a greyish pubescence. At Belgrove the flowers appear during June; in the Himalaya during July and August. They are produced in pen- dulous, terminal panicles 12 inches to IS inches long, are of a rosy purple or crimson and much larger than those of any other Buddleia. Each is about 1 inch long, the lower part tubular, but with four spreading lobes at the where it measures three-quarters of an There is a coloured plate of this Buddleia in The Gakden for June 10, 1S93. B. CLOBOSA.— In the neighbourhood of London and the home counties this species has proved to be the handsomest and most useful of the Buddleias. It is hardy, except during the very flower tubular mouthj inch across. hardest winters, when it may be cut back severely, Iiut I have never seen it killed outright. In ordinary winters it scarcely suffers at all. It grows to be S feet, 10 feet, or even 12 feet high, and from all the other species here mentioned" is quite distinct, because of its flowers being closely packed in globular heads, each of which is about 1 inch across and borne with several others on a raceme at the end of each branch. These balls of flowers are bright yellow and appear in June. The leaves have short stalks, but are themselves long, narrow, and taper to a fine point ; the mar- gins are minutely and regularly crenate, and theundersurface, as well as the young growths, are covered with a pale brown wool. The upper side IS a dark green, and much wrinkled. The plant 13 now an old one in English gardens, having been introduced by Messrs. Lee and Kennedy in 1774. It is a native of Chili, and the only hardy species that comes from the New World. It has been exc3pbionally fine this year, but is now nearly past. B. JAPON'ICA.— Whilst this is not the hand- somest, it is the hardiest of the Buddleias. It is a spreading bush, and does not appear likely to grow more than 5 feet high. The stems when young are markedly 4-angled, or even winged, and the short-stalked leaves are each 3 inches to 6 inches long and lanceolate. The flowering season extends from mid- July to September, the blossoms being crowded on a terminal, sometimes branch- ing, panicle 6 inches to 8 inches long. Each flower is about h inch in length, tubular, with four small slightly-spreading lobes at the apex. The colour is a pale lilac. Seeds are ripened in remarkable abundance, the shoots being weighed down in autumn liy the heavy racemes of closely-packed, conical seed-vessels. These, or a large projiortion of them, should be removed, as they tend to shorten the life of the plant. But it must in any case be renewed every few years Ijy means of either seeds or cuttings. Some confusion has Ijeen caused by the continental growers calling this plant B. curvifolia— a name that belongs to a species probably not in cultivation, and a native of the East Indies. B. J. \AR. iNsiGNis is a dwarfer, more compact, and erect-growing plant, raised from seed in France over twenty years ago. It suggests a Veronica in its mode of growth and inflorescence, having erect, dense racemes of rosy lilac flowers. It blossoms at the same time as the type, but is a great improvement on the ordinary B. japonica. B. LiNDLEYANA was Originally discovered by Robert Fortune in Chusan, and he sent the first seeds of it to the Horticultural Society in 1S43. Fortune was so struck with its beauty that he named it after Ur. Lindley, who was then the leading figure in horticulture. Under cultivation in this country it has not proved a great accjuisi- tion. It is not very hardy and requires a wall to grow it satisfactorily ; in the open it is killed nearly or quite to the ground every winter, and I have never seen it bloom with freedom away from a wall. It bears its flowers on slender terminal spikes, each 6 inches to 8 inches long, and they are of a reddish purple colour. In the typical plant the leaves are ovate, with a long tapering point, and almost or quite entire, but there is a variety with lobed leaves. Except for gardens in the extreme south and west, or for those who can give it room on a wall, this Buddleia is of little value. B. INTERMEDIA.— In 1871 Mons. Carriere, of Paris, noticed amone a batch of seedUngs of B. japonica three plants, which, when grown on, proved to be distinct and intermediate between that species and B. Lindleyana. The conclusion was, therefore, come to that they were hybrids between the two species, effected probably by some insect ; hence the present name was given to them. This hybrid very much resembles B. japonica, although the leaves show the influence of B. Lindleyana in their shaps and greater smoothness. Nor are the seed-vessels so large and heavy as in B. japonica. The flowers are of a greyish lilac outside and of a more violet shade within. The plant is handsome when in flower, and certainly not inferior to B. japonica ; it blooms at the same season as that species. B. rAxicuLATA (syn., B. crispa).— This species was originally discovered by Dr. Wallich in Kumaon, but its first introduction to the British Isles was due to Major Madden, who sent seeds gathered near Almorah, in the Western Himalayas, to Glasnevin. It has a wide distribution in North India, extending, in fact, from Afghanistan to Burmah. Growing at high altitudes, it has proved quite hardy here. A plant raised from seed sent from Afghanistan by Dr. Aitchison in 1879 is still at Kew— a rounded bush over 5 feet high. It is a very distinct plant and could scarcely be con- founded with any other of these Buddleias. The leaves (especially beneath) and the young stems are covered with a whitish woolly substance, which gives the plant quite a character of its own. The flowers appear in dense whorls on an erect spike and are of a bright lilac colour. It starts into growth early and is frequently injured by late frosts. It is said to flower in the Hima- layas from February to May and to scent the atmosphere around with its fragrance. Here it is the earliest of the Buddleias to flower, and was this year blossoming in May, but it never makes a striking display. B. VARIABILIS. — Among the specimens of new Chinese plants sent to Kew by Dr. Henry in recent years was a Buddleia to which Mr. W. B. Hemsley gave this name. In 1893 seeds of it were sent to M. Maurice de Vilmorin and to the Paris Museum by the Abbe Soulii-. It is now spreading in cultivation, having proved to be quite a handsome species as Buddleias go. It is a vigorous grower, sending out shoots in one season 4 feet to 5 feet long (as much as 8 feet in France). The leaves are 6 inches l»ng (sometimes considerably more), sharply toothed, the upper surface smooth or nearly so, the lower one covered with a close, dull white or pale brown, felt like substance. The flowers appear in small clusters thickly set on panicles sometimes 1 foot long, that are borne at the end of the main branches and on the secondary branches that spring from the axils of the uppermost leaves. The colour appears to vary. Dr. Henry describes the flowers on wild plants as " rose, orange-coloured in- side " ; at Kew they have been rosy purple, and M. de Vilmorin mentions a plant with violet- coloured flowers. Probably the differences in foliage to which Mr. Hemsley's name refers are also equally present in the flowers. In habit it cer- tainly varies. At Kew one of the plants has weakly, almost prostrate branches ; whereas another is sturdy and upright. It appears to be of about the same degree of hardiness as B. japonica, the points of the shoots dying back in winter. It has been found in several districts in Central China, also in Eastern Thibet. It flowers during July and August. W. J. Bean. Garden Flora. PLATE 1177. THE ALPINE FOKEST HEATH. (erica cabnea.) (with a coloured plate.*) As we have said more than once in The Gardek, this we believe to be the most use- ful little mountain shrub ever introduced, owing to its earliaes, and harJines!, which enable it every winter to be full of promise in thousands of buds, and ready to open into bright flower in the dawn of spring. Thus, last winter, owing to the mild season, it was not only in floiver, but in bright, liearty flower, in January, lasting three months in that state ; and though we cannot always count upon such a season, it is scarcely less useful in any season, however severe, emerging out of the snove laden with myriads of flower buds. It is also typical of the many plants in our gardens that are not made effective use of. It is not so much novelty we want as artistic and effective use of the things we know to be good and effective. Now, in many places this Heath may not be used at all in any right way, or we may here and there see a small patch on the rock-work or a worn-out small bed. Any- one who treats this plant so has no idea of its value. It is not dear, and it is also very easily increased in any soil by pulling it to pieces almost at any time throughout the * Drawn for The Garden at Gravetye Mauor, Susses, by H. G. Moon. Lithographed aud printed by J. L. Goffait. The Garden Iuly2, 1898. THE ALPINE FOREST HEATH JoLY 2, 189S.] THE rxARDKN. winter, ov spring, or autumn. Among the best uses for it is forming an under- growth to beds or groups of choice shrubs of Azalea, Rhododendron, Andromeda, or any like shrubs, in which way we not only get its full beauty, but, perhaps, double the blooming season of our groups or beds ; also the Heath flowers with their fine rosy colour are finer in effect if we see them " broken" by other things above and abDut them. There are varieties of this plant, and it is well to have a good, fine rosy variety which is not dirticult to get. Lately there has been a hybriil bit ween it and the Mediterranean Heath, which without having quite the brightness of our plant, has an almost equally pretty bloom, which in our garden lasted five months during the past winter and spring, that is to say, was in flower in December and lasted until May. At one time wo iised to argue that the right use of hardy flowers gave us eight months of bloom instead of the three months of the bedding plants, but with the aid of this and other winter-blooming Heaths and the early Lenten Roses, and winter and early spring flowers, eleven months is nearer the fact. At least this is true in the southern country. True, one year in seven, perhap.s, we have a very hard winter and things may be delayed for a month or six weeks, but the usual result of this severity is greater beauty of the early bloom. It would be better for all our hardy things if an annual rest of six weeks or so under the snow were the rule. The Week's Work. KITCHEN GARDEN. Routine work. — With an agreeable change in the weather the cultivator will now have an oppor- tunity of using the hoe freely among growing crops. \\'eeds hitherto have been difficult to keep down, and every bit of soil will now pay for having the surface frequently loosened. With a change from cold, sunless days to heat and drought means must be taken to prevent shallow- rooting crops from flagging. Peas in light soil just in flower or podding will be benefited by mulching with short manure. I find cow manure excellent in a light soil. The same remarks are applicable to French Beans, as unless the roots receive plenty of moisture the plants become infested with red spider and fail to crop. French Beans are usually planted close ; in their case it is a good plan to mulch the whole surface with strawy litter. This is of great value in retaining moisture, and if the plants are given one thorough watering weekly the mulch will conserve the moisture. During July and August I have found it a good plan to water the French Beans overhead rather late in the day, as with the foliage damp during the night red spider cannot make much progress. Runner Beans as they reach the upper portion of the stakes may be topped, as this assists the plants to set the early flowers at the base, and unless the pods are needed at a later period there is no gain in allowing runners to go away to top, as the crop is more difficult to gather and the plants often suffer from want of moisture. I top at 5 feet to 6 feet, and by so doing get a heavy crop, which may be gathered with ease. In gardens near towns this mode of culture is a great saving of stakes. Runner Beans sown late and not staked should have a few short stakes or be pinched at li) inches from the soil, frccjuently topping tlie later growths. The early plants of Brussels Sprouts will now benefit by being moulded up. Cabbage (juartcrs should be cleared as soon as cut over and a dill'erent crop planted. I find Celery follows the early Cabbage well, and the soil thrown out of the trenches will bo useful for a quick croi), such as Lettuce, when the ridgo:* are finished. There is a great saving of time in making the Celery trenches some little time before planting. Late-sown Celery should be kept well watereu ; a thorough moistening overhead late in the daj- will make a sturdy, clean plant. ToMAToKs IN THE OPEN. — Many can grow a few plants of Tomatoes against a south wall. The plants will now be setting freely if grown specially for early fruiting, as, though the pro- gress made earlier in the summer was slow, I note the fruits have set well. With plants at the stage named I would advise feeding. Many give manure at planting, but it is not well to do so, as growth is too robust. I mulch with spent Mushroom manure. This is light and retains moisture, and if other food is needed, nothing is better than li(iuid from stables. In training avoid crowding. So far I have never seen any better mode of culture than training in cordon fashion, one or several leads according to the strength of the plants. Foliage may be reduced, but I am not in favour of crippling the plants, as it stands to reason plants divested of all their leaves can- not make progress. Close stopping of side sho:)t3 will be necessary, and plants in the open trained to stakes will need attention. Here one main growth is ample, as the season is short in which the fruits have to set and ripen. A little closer 3top])ing of foliage with strong growers is admissible. The growths should be kept close to the stakes to allow the fruits to get light and sun. Veoetable Marrows. — The plants are now growing after a long spell of cold weather, and there is often a tendency to gross growth and fruits are few in such seasons if the plants are growing in rich soil. I would advise closer atten- tion to stopping, not allowing the plants to become crowded. Much better results are secured from plants not given much manure at the start, as a sturdier growth will give a greater quantity of fruits. Marrows will now pay for feeding, and if in rows it is a good plan to mulch between these with short litter, liberal supplies of liquid manure also greatly benefiting the plants. In many gardens the fruits are left much too long on the plants. They are much best cut in a small state before seeds form, as then others set. In dry soils after a hot day I have found watering overhead late in the day of great benefit. A late lot of ])lants sown specially for the purpose will be useful. I plant these rather close, stop hard, and at the approach of frost in the early autumn give a night covering, and by so doing get much later supplies. Savoys. — The Savoy crop is more useful in mid- winter than in the autumn, as at this latter date there is a wealth of green vegetables. I advised sowing later than usual to get the crop at the latest period possible. Early Savoys as regards quality are not etfual to good Coleworts; so those who have plenty of the latter may with advan- tage make the Savoy a succession crop. Now is a good time to plant Savoys in cjuantity for early heads from October to Christmas. The Early Dwarf Ulm, Dwarf Green Curled, and Tom Thumb are all good and make a rapid growth. They may be planted in rows 15 inches apart and only half that distance in the row. For late use the well-known Drumhead is still one of the best, but it needs double the space advised for the small earlier kinds. Last year I grew an intermediate variety and found it much liked. This was Sutton's Perfection, a very compact grower. New Year, a new variety, is a very large Savoy and may be had quite sound well into March. This variety does not split in bad weather like the older Drumhead. If a late small Savoy is wished for. Bijou is an excellent variety and very late. In planting it will be found advisable to draw drills in light soils, as this lightens the labour when water is needed in the early stages of growth. Savoys for late use do well planted on north or oast borders S. M. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. Peaches and Nectarinks under tilass. — Those trees from which the crop has now been gathered hhould receive every attention just as much as if such were not the case. There ought not to be any relaxation of effort to keep the trees in the best possible condition. Immediately the crop is gathered, a thorough watering will in most cases be needed, as in all probability it will not have been done, nor should it be, in extensive borders just at the finishing period. In conjunction with the watering, also note the condition of the trees as regards their vigour of growth or otherwise. If disposed to grow too strongly, do not now manure them so as to excite the growth still more. If in good condition, with a full or heavy crop taken from them, the growth should not be ex- cessive, in which case an application of a well- proven artificial manure will be of decided advan- tage. It will restore to the soil that needful food wherewith to build up the trees for another sea- son's fruiting. In my own case I shall apply a moderate dressing of Dickson's manure, which, as already stated, has been proved to be well suited to the soil, being of marked benefit to weakly trees in particular. This will be watered in, after which no more manure of any kind will be applied this season. If the borders for good reasons have been mulched to assist the crops and to prevent excessive evaporation, look well to it that these do not suffer from drought, for under a genial-looking surface the border may be dust-dry even, and if this be the case, the very first stone is laid towards bud-drop ping another spring. Give all the ventila- tion possible now to these houses, never clos- ing them even for the sake of other plants that may be in them if it can possibly be avoided. If insects have been troublesome, lose no time in applying strong measures for their destruction. If it be aphis (either green or black), fumigate with XL All, than which there is nothing better or safer. If it be red spider, syringe well with sulphur and water well mixed. With this, syringe the trees and all woodwork, and the glass, too, after which leave the house as it is for a week or so, then if more are still to be seen repeat the application, and after another interval in all probability the spider will not give any more trouble. Scale in some cases is troublesome, and if it be present in only small numbers give just as much attention now, otherwise by the autumn it will ha\ e increased amazingly. Either a moderate dose of carbolic soft soap or one of Oishurst Com- pound brushed in upon the old wood or syringed on the trees should prove efficacious. If not, apply a stronger dose of the same compounds. In dealing with the mealy bug, which one at times comes into contact with around the base of good fruits even upon exhibition tables when critically inspecting the specimens, strong measures should be taken to prevent any in- crease. If this plant pest can be stopped in its onward career now it will be all the l.ietter. All the crevices of the old wood should be carefully looked into for young broods, using a strong solu- tion of a well proven insecticide mixed in hot water, which may be safely used up to l.SO" or 140° Fahr., keeping it at these temperatures by means of a spirit lamp such as that now used in evaporating liquids. Half of the insecti- cides used are rendered ineffective or par- tially so, be it noted, by being applied in too cool a condition. Syringe the trees if the bug be spread very much upon them, shading after- wards for a day or two, even when the precaution is taken, as it should be upon such tender foliage, of washing off partially, so as to dilute the com- pound half an hour or so after application. In conclusion, it only remains to be said th.at any measures now taken against insect pests must be to the good of the trees for another season, for unless the foliage be retained in good condition THE GARDEN. [Jolt 2, 1898. large extent. If the latest tre93 are aaen to ba cirryinj; tOD heavy crops through the stoning process, relieve them of the smallest fruits or those badly plAced. So long as there is a fair margin over the usual crop carried by any tree there need not be much fear. In houses newly planted the growth is as a matter of course the primary con- sideration. In the first place see that the aphides do not injure the points of the young shoots and thus partially arrest the growth or divert it into other channels. I am no believer in the old- fashioned idea of not encouraging lateral wood on young trees. Get all the trellis covered, and that as quickly as possible, is the advice now given. So long as the lateral shoots are not at the back of the trellis or foreright ones, lay them in and regulate their growth so as to well balance the tree all over by pinching the leading shoots as occasion may require. If more of this encourage- ment were given we should hear far less of canker and its attendant evils. If the borders be well made at the outset with good material there will not be any occasion to feed these young trees. until it has acsomplished its work, the fruit-bads cannot, as a mitter of course, ba so thoroughly well developed ; hence not so fully prepared for as early, or perhaps an earlier start another year. Healthy foliage this year means, spaaking gener- ally, healthy flowers another year with due atten- tion meanwhile. A partial thinning out of the wood where it is at all disposed to be overcrowded had better be attended to now rather than later on There is no reason why so much of this work should be left until the autumn or winter prun- ing. If done now to a moderate extent, more light will be admitted to the trees and more air will circulate round the branches ; hence the wood will be better ripened. One has, of course, to guard against late growths as much as pos- sible ; therefore any severe amount of thinning may, in the case of vigorous trees, have that tendency ; such, for instance, as young trees which are oftentimes very active in making secondary growths. Use caution in dealing with all such as these. Trees that have fully covered their allotted space can be operated upon with safety. These and others which are mak- ing lateral growths or breastwood had better be gone over frequently, nipping the shoots whilst still young and tender. For this purpose the finger and thumb may oftentimes be used with more dispatch and to better purpose than the knife. No such wood as this, which one knows must eventually be removed, should be coun- tenanced, and if its remo\-al be persisted in for a few weeks the tree will go to rest all the sooner. Look after any ties also that may, by the swelling of the wood, have become tightened, otherwise these will, if of string or yarn, cut the bark and cause an over-growth or injury from pres- sure against the wire. Where injury has been done by galvanised wire in past seasons, it should be instructive to watch as to when such injury really occurs. Fruiting trees. — Houses in which the trees are now fruiting should be kept mo- derately cool in any case ; even then, re- latively speaking, the temperature will average that of the earlier houses. A free circulation of air will add to both flavour and colour, whilst at the same time it will not encourage insect pests so much, unless it be the red spider, for which the syringe at this juncture, with clean water only, is a good remedy. Fire-heat is scarcely needed now in any case. Even if a house has to be hastened on, it is better to keep it a little closer than to depend on artificial warmth, which I have often noted is not so beneficial. Where the fruit is ripe ventilate freely, and continue to shade if need be so as to retard the fruit, removing all such shading immediately the fruit is picked. As in houses where the crop is all taken off, so here look to the due thinning of the wood so a,i not to shade the fruit and thus prevent it from attaining its full colour. As soon as Peaches show signs of colouring cease to syringe the trees. Nectarines, on the other hand, by reason of their smooth skin, do not retain the moisture ; hence these may, if occasion requires it, be syringed a few times later than in the case of Peaches. See, however, that they are quite dry by nightfall. Watering will need regular and close attention whether the borders be inside or out, or partly both. In the latter case take care that the inside roots do not become drier than those outside, or the latter will assuredly make most headway. Give water freely when its need is apparent, and guard against too frequent applications by mulchings upon shallow | ^^^^^^^^_^^^j^_^_ borders. Continuetofeed those treesartificiallythat are bearing heavy crops of fruit. For present use a Carnation Primrose ftueen. — This exoel- quick-acting manure is the better one to use, | lent Carnation, as seen at the Temple show, such as one in which granulated blood is used as | appears to have a better constitution than that of a component part. There is time of course in the : most yellow varieties. The plants shown were case of the latest crops to assist in the perfect- ! big and healthy, with plenty of wiry-looking ing of the stones, in which case use manure in i grass, that promised well for the propagation, and which bone meal or its equivalent prevails to a I a good crop of medium sized, shapely, soft yellow flowers set in long calyces that showed no sign of bursting. Altogether I think it the most promis- ing yellow variety I have ever seen, and pre- dict for it a great future among those who are content with Carnations less in size than the Mal- maison. — J. C. T. Stove and Greenhouse. POSOQUERIA LONGIFLORA. The accompanying iUustration represents a fine old evergreen stove shrub, Posoqueria longiflora, now seldom seen. Tliis, I think, is to be regretted, for when in bloom it is a hand- some plant with its fine trusses of long white tubular flowers, the perfume of which fills the house in which it is grown. Some of the trusses bear as many as thirty individual flowers. Last year the plant figured, produced Posoqueria lonijifiora. From a photograph sent by Mr. J. C. Easter, Nostell Priory, Wakefield, Torks. It would, on the other hand, be a mistake to : si.\.ty-two tine trusses. Unfortunately, when do so. Nor should the borders, where made-up ; any of the.se are cut they last but a short time, ones, be added to too quickly, but rather let the soil they have at present be well filled with roots than add fresh for them to run off into at the ear liest opportunity. Guard specially against tight ties or shreds, as the case may be, in all young trees. It is better to use ratha for all such than string, and brown paper shreds would be better than either cloth or leather ones. Hoktos. but the individual flower,? I have had in water quite fresh for ten days. This is the best way of utilising these charmingly sweet-scented flowers. J . Easter. Nostell Priory Gardens. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— STOVE. Carnations diseased. — Caa you tell me whit the disease is on the Caraatioa leaves I seud you and the best re.ne iy ? — J. L. *,* Red spider will cause th3 leaves to go as iii the specimens sent, but it is mora frequently cxuied by bad root action, owing to the plants being grjwu in unsuitable S)il, or soil that has becom 3 sour through bad drainage. Ked spider can be syringed off, and i jDt.Y 2, 1898.] THE GARDEN. the state of the roots should be examined. Tliere ie no fungoid di.soaeo. — Kn. Double Begonias.— So far as relates to the largelioweieil doubles, it is worthy of note that the densely crowded flowers are getting out of favour, and those having large, broad, flatfish or tiell-liUe jietals after the form of Camellias and Rhses are most sought for. But it will be a long some ere we shall see on these, stems stout enough to keep the massive flowers erect. How ditl'erent is it with that intensely scarlet- flowered small double variety Lafayette, the blooms of which are perfectly erect. — A. 1). Societies and Exhibitions. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETV. .Jl-NK 28. This meeting, as far as exhibits were concerned, was one of the best that has been held, the hall being (juite tilled with flowers of different kinds, those from the open air, including chiefly Pa'Onies and Delphiniums, being in the majority. Roses, too, were also Largely shown. The Malmaison Carnations also added to the interest of the meeting, the groups of these being excellent in every way. Orchids, too, though not so numerous as on recent occasions, made up for this in the quality of the flowers. Fruit and Tomatoes were also well shown. Orchid Committee. First-class certificates were awarded to the following : — ST.VNiiorEA RoDiGASi.iNA. — A distinct and ([uaint species. In this the petals are pale jellow, each about ~> inches in length, the lower fepals similar in length, nearly .3 inches wide, I he interior yellow, thickly spotted on the 1 )wer half with large rich brown spots, the upper ^' pals narrower and not so heavily spotted as the lower sepals. The exterior is yellow, covered from the apex downwards with light brown spots. From Sir T. Lawrence, Burford Lodge, Dorking. Cvi'RU'EniUM 1'Ansoni (C. Rothschildianum x C. Morgania'). — This is a distinct and lovely secon- dary hybrid, the dorsal sepal pale greenish white, longitudinally lined with rich dark purple ; the [letals each about (i inches in length, greenish white, thickly covered with dark brown blotches and spots ; the large lower sepals white lined with dark brown, the lip greenish white suffused with purple. A plant carrying a three-flowered raceme came from Messrs. H. Low and Co., in M hose nurseries it was raised by Mr. G. I'Anson. Cvi'Ki[>Ei)UM Mks. Rkoinald Youni; (C. Lowi X C. Sanderianum). — In this the dorsal sepal is bright yellow suffused with rich purple at the base and having prominent purple lines. The lower sepal is similar in colour, the petals greenish white at the base, sufl'used with brownish purple at the apex, the basal half thickly covered with large brown spots ; the lip is deep purple- brown, veined with a darker shade of colour. It has the intermediate characters of both parents. From Messrs. H. I^ow and Co. Awards of merit were given to the following : — C.vTTLEVA AuKi.A (C. Triamv x C. Percival- iana). — This is a distinct and pretty hybrid, having the intermediate form of both parents. Tbe sepals and petals are of fine form and sub- stance, rich rosy lilac, the lip rose-purple, suf- fused and veined with a darker shade of colour, the side lobes deep purple, suffused with yellow and brown at the base. A small plant with one flower came from Messrs. J. Veitch and Sons, Chelsea. L.TiLio - Cattleya Canhamiana var. .Ioyce WiiJAS. — This is a distinct and lovely form, the sepals and petals delicate rose, suffused slightly at the margin with a darker shade of colour, the large lip rose-purple, shading to crimson-purple, veined with a darker shade, the side lobes purple, with some yellow and brown at the base. This lovely form, carrying a raceme of three flowers, came from the collection of Sir K. Wigan. Messrs. J. Veitch and Sons sent an interesting group, prominent in which were several fine forms of Cattleya Warscewiczi (C. gigas), C. Mcndcli, C. Mossi.v, and good varieties of C. VVarneri. Among the hybrids was the new Cattleya Cert- rude (C. supeiba x C. Mossia"), with the inter- mediate characters of the two parents both in growth and flower. The sepals and petals are delicate rose, the open lip having a rose-coloured ground, suffused with rose-purple, and veined with a darker shade of purple. Several forms of La'lio Cattleya Canhamiana, a distinct form of L. C. Eudora with deep purple lines through the throat, Ladia purpurata, and L. tenebrosa were also well represented. Epiphronitis Veitchi with four spikes of flower, a large specimen of Uendrooium Dearei, Epidendrum vitellinum majus, Cypripedium Veitchi, Masdevallia ignea, Phahvnopsis Ludde-violacea with three of its rich rose-mottled flowers, several good forms of Odontoglossum crispum, O. Pescatorei, O. excellens, good forms of Sobralia macrantha, Disa kewensis, Oncidiumsin variety, and Cattleya Harold var. Clarissa (gigasxGaskelliana) were also included. A silver Flora medal was awarded. Messrs. Hugh Low and Co., Bush Hill Nurseries, Enfield, sent a large group, in which were some large, finely- flowered specimens of Cattleya Mossia' in variety. Grand forms of C. Mendeli, several dark forms of Ladia tenebrosa, a fine variety of Epidendrum prismatocarpum with four spikes of flower, Oncidium crispum and 0. macranthum in variety were also well represented. Prominent among the Cypripediums was the beautiful C. Lawrenceanum Hyeanum with two flowers. Several good forms of C. Curtisi, C. ciliolare, and other interesting species and hybrids were also shown. A silver Flora medal was awarded. Messrs. Stanley - Mobbs and Ashton sent a neat group, consisting principally of finely flowered forms of Cattleya Mossi:v, including C. M. Reineckiana with four flowers. They also sent several grand forms of C. Mendeli, C. Warneri, Ladia tenebrosa in variety, and good forms of L. purpurata. Pro- minent among the Odontoglossums were good forms of 0. crispum. Miltonia vexillaria was also well rejiresented. A fine form of Mormodes pardinum and good varieties of Jjpidendrum vitellinum majus, Lycastes, Oncidiums, and Dendrobiums in variety were also included. Stanhopea tigrina var. Ashtoni is a very large variety, the flowers each 8 inches across. A silver Banksian medal was awarded. Messrs. B. S. Williams and Son sent a choice group. In the back row were several finely- flowered Thunia Marshalliana, Ladia tenebrosa, and a grand specimen Aerides expansum with two spikes of flower. There were also several pretty forms of Cattleya Mossiie, C. intermedia, and L;elio-Cattleya Canhamiana. Cattleya Breaute- ana (C. Loddigesi x C. superba) has bright rose- purple sepals and petals of fine substance, the lip rich crimson-purple in front, white in the centre, with some yellow in the throat. Pescatorea Lehmanni, Cypripedium Lebaudianum, Cochlioda Na'zliana, Odontoglossum crispum, and other in- teresting Orchids in variety were also noted. A silver Banksian medal was awarded. Sir T. Lawrence sent Masdevallia Barli\^ana, a distinct and pretty form, with rich purple and orange-yellow flowers ; Habenaria rhodochilon with green and orange- scarlet flowers, four forms of L;tlia tenebrosa, a good form of Cattleya Warscewiczi with seven flowers on the spike, Odontoglossum excellens var. Sander:e, a light form, with unusually large flowers ; and Macro- stylis bella with two spikes of dark purple flowers. Mr. F. P. White, Twyford, sent Cat- tleya guttata Leopoldi with thirty-two flowers on the spike. Sir F. Wigan sent Sobralia VViganse, a natural hybrid in the way of S. Ames.-e ; Sobra- lia Veitchi aurea, a lovely yellow form ; and S. xantholeuca. From Mr. De B. Crawshay came Odontoglossum excellens Mrs. De B. Crawshay, a yellow and deep brown blotched variety favouring O. triumphans, and a lovely dark form of Cat- tleya Mendeli named after himself. Mr. W. Gil- lett, Fair Oak, Bishopstoke, sent a dark form of Ladia purpurata with six flowers on the spike. Mr. Leopold do Rothschihl showed Morincdes par- dinum unicolor, and from Mr. T. W. Swinburne came tvvo large floweis of Sophronitis grandiflora. The Rev. E. Handley, Bath, sent Cattleya Mossiic Wagneri with two flowers, and Air. F. W. Moore, (ilasncvin, showed three very interesting and beautiful forms of Masdevallia Chim.era. Floral Committee. The following plants obtained firat-class cer- tificates : — Campanula mirabilis.— A distinct and striking species, producing a more or less pyramidal panicle of pale blue erect cups in great profusion. A marked feature of the plant is the fleshy, shin- ing, slightly toothed leaves, which before throw- ing up the flower-spike form a perfectly flat rosette close upon the earth. It is possible it will prove biennial in character and in size be much larger generally than the plant exhibited. From Messrs. G. .lackman and Sons, Woking. Lii.iUM Makiian.— A hybrid Lily of great pro- mise, the parents being L. Hansoni and L. Mar- tagon var., probably dalmaticum. In the time of flowering, together with size of blossom, form and other characteristics, there is a marked presence of L. Hansoni, with the decided fragrance of L. Martagon var. The colour is a brownish bronze overlying yellow, and freely spotted with dark spots. From C. G. van Tubergen, Haarlem, Holland. The following received awards of merit -. — Nastoktu-m Queen ok Tom Thumiss.— As shown this is very dwarf and compact, with flowers of a deep crimson-brown. The foliage is freely variegated. From Messrs. Watkins and Simpson, Long Acre. DiciTALis roRPUKEA GEANDiFi^oRA.— Thisstrain is remarkable for the boldness of its spikes, the size of its blossoms, and the markings on the same. From Messrs. Jas. Veitch and Sons, Chelsea. PiiiLADELPHUs Lemoinei. — A pretty shrub covered with a wonderful profusion of snow-white and fragrant blossoms, every twig being laden with flowers. From Messrs. Barr and Sons, Covent Garden. Bkkon'ia Florence Nigiiting.^le.— This is a really marvellous flower even as tuberous Begonias go, the blooms of the purest snow-white, of great size and well formed. Some of the handsome double flowers were more than .1 inches across, besides which it is quite dwarf and very free. From Mr. B R. Davis, Yeovil, Somerset. Begonia Thunderer.— A massive crimson- scarlet, the flowers almost as large as those of a Pa>ony, very full and well built to the centre. The habit was very dwarf and free in all the plants shown. From Mr. B. R. Davis, Yeovil, Somerset. Gaili.ardia W. B. Child.— a large and hand- some variety with self-coloured flowers of a chrome-yellow shade. From Messrs. Kelway and Sons, Langport. LupiNus poLYPHYLLUs SOMERSET.— In this kind we have, as it were, the yellow spike of L. arboreus transferred to a herbaceous kind, viz. , L. polyphyllus, which should render it of much value in the garden. The pretty soft yellow is particularly telling. From Messrs. Kelway and Sons, Langport. Ikis juncea nomidica. — A lovely pale yellow variety of I. juncea (the Rush-leaved Iris), a bulbous species belonging; to the Xiphium group. The kind now referred to is a dainty and pleasing variety that cannot fail to be welcome. From Messrs. B. Wallace and Co., Cobhester. Rose Una.— A hybrid between R. cinina and R. indica, resulting in a large and handsome single white kind, each flower 4 inches across, quite pure when expanded, but having a creamy tint on opening. A single shoot of this new hybrid, the first of its race, measured just 2.5 feet 10 THE GARDEN. [July 2, 1898. long, and as a climber it will doubtless prove of great value. From Messrs. Paul and Son, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt. Rose Rev. Alan Cheales. — An H.P. kind with large, handsome blossoms of a lively rose shade and silvery reverse. The flowers are very full and delightfully fragrant. From Messrs. Paul and Son, Old Nurseries, Cheshunt. HEDYSARnm MCLTiJUGUM. — An old-fashioned and well-known plant, producing a profusion of purple Pea-shaped blossoms during spring and autumn. A coloured plate of this was given in TuE Garden, May 14, 1898, p. 408. From Sir Trevor Lawrence, Uorking (gardener, Mr. Bain). Gladioli's Queen ok Roses. — This is one of the dwarf early-flowering class (G. nanus), of which Blushing Bride and Salmon Queen are representatives. The above has flowers of an exquisite and delicate pink, almost flesh-pink, very beautifuland pleasing. From Messrs. Sutton and Sons, Reading. Carn.vtion Mrs. i>e Satoe. — Scarlet ; very full and of good colour. Carnation Lord Welbv. — Scarlet of a some- what lighter shade ; very handsome. Carnation Mar(;ot. — Pinkish scarlet, some- what in the way of Princess May ; excellent in form. Carnation Baldwin. — Salmon-rose ; a very handsome flower. All of the above Carnations came from Mr. Martin Smith, Hayes, Kent. One of the leading features of the exhibition was a splendid group from Lord Aldenham, Elstree (gardener, Mr. E. Beckett), which extended half-way down one side of the hall. The group was admirably arranged without crowding of any kind, prominent positions being accorded to handsome Kentias, Areca lutesoens, &c., which threw a canopy, so to speak, over the other plants, which comprised various Crotons, beautifully coloured, many Dracaenas, Malraaison Carnations, Crassula coccinea, Odontoglossum crispum. Gloxinias, such Liliums as longiflorum, speciosum rubrum and Kn«tzeri, Tuberoses, yellow Carnations, Asparagus, Gladiolus The Bride, with Ferns, Panicums and Isolepis, the latter employed as a fringe to a very telling arrangement, for which a silver-gilt Flora medal was awarded. The Roses from Messrs. Wm. Paul and Son, W'altham Cross, were a most repre- sentative gathering, containing nearly 100 varie- ties, and embracing almost all sections of the flower. 1 J warf bush plants, standards, and endless examples in a cut state were shown, many in large groups in baskets that proved very effective. A few of the best were Narcisse, pale cream yellow and white ; Mme. Falcot, the lovely hybrid Tea Caroline Testout, Wm. Allen Richardson, Marie Lavallee (Tea), a lovely pale pink ; Empress Alexandra of Russia, perhaps the most prominent by reason of its size and colour, a lovely bronze- salmon tone ; Enchantress, Souvenir de Catherine Guillot, coppery salmon, very charming, quite a novel shade among Teas ; Antoine Rivoire, (,)ueen Mab (China), deep salmony orange, a most lovely shade ; together with many singles. Mosses, Poly- antha kinds, &c. — a truly sumptuous lot of these beautiful flowers (silver Banksian medal). Some ten varieties of hybrid Water Lilies from Mr. Leopold de Rothschild, Gunnersbury House, Acton (gardener, Mr. Jas. Hudson), attracted much notice. These included Marliacea rosea, M. albida, M. Chromatella, one of the most useful and beautiful of all ; M. carnea, Laydekeri lilacea, EUisiana, crimson, rich in colour and beautiful in form ; stellata, blue, &c. These were grouped in a shallow vessel of water, thus keeping perfectly fresh throughout the meeting (silver Banksian medal). A group of Adiantums representing some ninety species and varieties came from Mr. H. B. May, Edmonton, and constituted a most instructive lot. It is not possible to enumerate or describe so representative a collection. A. Hemsleyanum is certainly among the most graceful and elegant, and Lambertianum has the most minute pinn:i; of all, considerably smaller than in gracilUmum. A. Veitchi is very striking in the young fronds, and withal a handsome kind. A. Forearum has a silvery sheen over the mature fronds and a red-bronze tone in the young pinn;? which render it attrac- tive. A. fulvum is all its name implies ; while reniforme asarifolium has the broad foliage of the latter plant very strongly suggested. A. Capillus- veneris imbricatum, with its densely set fronds overlapping each other, is very distinct. A silver- gilt Banksian medal was awarded. Begonias were well represented, Mr. B. R. Davis, Yeovil, Somerset, bringing a splendidly grown lot of plants of very dwarf habit and bearing a profusion of giant blossoms in rich and telling shades and much variety — Venus, pure white ; Wm. Allen Richardson, orange ; Mrs. Stothbert, soft yellow ; Trafalgar, orange blossoms ; Clio, yellow goiTered petals ; and Orion, brilliant scarlet, enormous double flowers, being among the most conspicuous in this finely-grown lot of plants (silver Banksian medal). The other group, from Messrs. Cannell and Sons, of Swanle}', contained many fine things, such as Lady Lonsdale, orange ; The Lady, whice ; Paul Hardy, crimson ; .Jean Sisley, deep crimson ; and Brilliant, intense velvety crimson (bronze Banksian medal). Carnations in pots, largely of the Malmaison section, were as strongly repre- sented as we usually see them at the Temple show. The large semi-circular group of the pink variety shown by the Marquis of Salisbury, Hat- field (gardener, Mr. George Norman), was as fine as it is possible to be, more especially as the plants were bearing a maximum of flowers, and that quite small plants in (i inch pots carried an average of four handsome blossoms. Some idea may be gathered of the display of bloom when it is stated there were some 200 of these plants, with something like a total of 1000 of these noble flowers. Such groups as this demonstrate that freedom of flower- ing may be — indeed, is — secured without the use of huge pots and much soil, which may after all too much favour gross growth at the expense of flowers. The group from Hatfield was a highly creditable lot, well deserving the silver Flora medal awarded. Another group, in which greater variety prevailed, the ]jlants arranged in undulating banks usually of one colour and kind, came from Messrs. Cutbush and Sons, Highgate. Here also the small pot system prevails, though in many instances disbudding had been resorted to, the blossoms being larger and less numerous than in the last instance. Many beautiful varieties were in this group, such as Princess May, Churchwarden (crimson), Prime Minister (scarlet). Princess of Wales, Mme. Adelina Patti, fine pink, with a large batch of the old Blush kind. A few border kinds were also included, an especially good form being Andrew Noble, a reddish salmon (silver Flora medal). Another group of Mal- maisons was made up entirely of novelties by Mr. Martin R. Smith, Hayes, Kent (gardener, Mr. Blick). Some of the best are noted elsewhere, but other good kinds are The Geisha, salmon- rose ; Trumpeter, crimson - scarlet ; Nautilus, white ; .Juliette, scarlet-rose ; Mrs. Torrens, fine deep pink ; Calypso, blush, very fine ; while a yellow border kind, Cecilia, in the background was little, it any, inferior in point of size to many of the Malmaison kinds. A silver gilt Banksian medal was awarded. Messrs. Peed and Sons, Roupell Park, likewise contributed Carnations, mostly border kinds, grown in pots — R. H. Measures, scarlet ; Primrose (^tueen, J. W. Christ- mas, reddish pink ; Rosamond, salmon-scarlet ; Miss Measures, crimson-scarlet, being among the best. These, with a margin of pink Malmaisons, were still further bordered by Anthericum lineare variegatum (silver Banksian medal). Mr. F. G. Foster, Brockhampton, Hants, had a fine assort- ment of Sweet Peas in many beautiful shades dis- posed in a very pleasing manner— Countess of Aberdeen, flesh ; Meteor, rosy salmon and bronze ; Peach Blossom, Queen Victoria, yel- lowish white ; Celestial, Lady Nina Balfour, soft mauve ; Black Knight and Countess of Radnor, rosy mauve, being among the best (bronze Bank- sian medal). A small batch of Phii'nocoma pro- lifera Barnesi, more naturally grown than is usually seen, from Messrs. Balchin and Sons, Hassocks, displayed the value of such well-grown plants, and the finely-flowered heads were most attractive. Hardy flowers, as at the previous meeting, held the place of honour on this occasion, not merely in point of numbers, but in quality also. The Pseonies and Delphiniums from Messrs. Kelsvay, Langport, were excellent in every way, the bast of the former being Dai, pink-blush ; CJanymede, crimson, centre tipped gold ; Olivia, pure white; Chiron, crimson; Miss Salway, creamy white; and Visticius, pure white, double ; while of DjI' phiniums, Primrose and Beauty of Langport re- present all that exists of so-called white kinds, though we feel constrained to confess the shade of colour is a little out of place among these noblj showy flowers. Among the blues. True Blue, King of Delphiniums, azure-blue, immense white centre ; Dagonet, dark purple-violet ; Alfred Henderson, Ardite, and Imperial Majesty, rich purple-violet, were the finest. Other plants shown were Gaillardias in variety, Centaurea macro- cephala, Inula glandulosa, Phlomis Russelliana with whorls of yellow and white flowers, several Eryngiums, double white Rocket, Campanula per- sicifolia maxima and its variety alba, both in splen- did condition and very showy (silver Flora medal). Messrs. .Jas. Veitch and Sons showed herbaceous Piconies, in bold efl'ective masses for the most part. Some of the leading sorts were Pottsi superba, crimson-lake ; grandiflora rosea, Emilie Lemoine, white, slight crimson flake ; Duchesse de Nemours, white ; Leda, rosy pink ; delicatis- sima, pink ; and Carnea triumphans, &c. Then in lielphiniums we noted Bach, Lucifer, the lovely sky-blue Belladonna, Keteleeri, an old though showy kind ; Princess of Wales, azure- blue ; Lord Balfour, violet-purple, &c. These were margined with flowering branches of Tropa;olum polyphyllum. At one end of thg table, which extended the full length of the centre space, a host of annuals and biennials was arranged — such things as Sweet Pe\s in variety in all the best kinds, together with Wallflowers, Stocks, Sweet Sultan, Carnation Grenadin, Rho- danthe, Clintonia elegans, with its blue and white flowers, Schizanthus retusus and its \ ariety albus also being abundantly shown. Then in the centre were vases of annuals, such as the white Schizan- thus, many grasses, Sweet Peas and the like, that made a very pleasing array. The same firm set up a fine lot of Campanula Medium calycanthema, th^ whole of the plants splendidly grown and branched with a freedom but rarely attained in pots. The plants were all grown in 8inch pots, and grandly flowered throughout. The size of the flowers individually was alone a feature. The firm brought also the usual complement of rare flower- ing shrubs, among which Magnolia Watsooi was very fine. Other things included Indigofera de- cora alba, a most graceful thing ; Styrax japonioa, white, abundantly flowered ; I'hiladelphus coro- natus erectus and Escallonia langleyensis, a red- flowered kind, very profuse (silver Flora medal). From Colchester, Messrs. R. Wallace and Co. sent a lovely lot of hardy bulbous things that included Liliums in plenty, notably the lovely new kind L. rubellum : also L. Hansoni, L. Szovitzianum, L. tenuifolium, L. pomponium verum, L. pardalinum, L. Dalhansoni (a handsome hybrid), L. Henryi, together with a large assort- ment of the forms of L. Thunbergianum and the more stately and massive flowers of L. platy- phyllum, L. rubro-vittatum, L. Wittei, with three of its superb white, spotless flowers only relieved by a chrome-yellow band in the centre of each petal. Besides these were many Brodiseas, various Calochorti, Ixias in variety, Hemero- callis aurantiaca major, English and Spanish Irises, Iris gigantea, I. Monnieri, and the lovely bulbous Iris I. juncea (silver Banksian medal). The Messrs. Barr and Sons likewise had one of their usual displays of hardy things, among which Pivonies largely figured, also Irises of several sec- tions, such as English and Spanish, and the dis- tinct Iris Monspur and varieties, which are very beautiful and distinct. This exhibit also con- July 2, 1898.] THE GARDEX. 11 tained such things as Papaver nudicaule, several Sea Hollies, Pink Her Majesty, very Kne Lupinus arboreiis, Ornithogalum pyramidale, Inula <;lanu- losa, Dictaninus of sorts, Ilanunculus asiaticus in variety, &c. (silver Hanksian medal). MB.-isrs. Paul and Son, The Old Nurseries, Chcshunt, also staged a splendid lot of herbaceous IVonies and Del- phiniums in all the leading kinds in both in- stances, together with many vases of the new single Rose Royal Scarlet in the bud state (silver Banksian medal). Another group of hardy flowers from Messrs. Geo. .Jackman and Sons, Woking, contained many Campanulas, Delphiniums in variety, Sweet Peas, Pyrethrums, Heuchera, Lychnis Haageana, some Eryngiums, double yel- low Bachelor's Buttons, Sidalcea malva'flora, &c. (bronze Banksian medal). Fruit Committee. The exhibits before this committee, though not numerous, made up by their splendid (luality. A first-class certificate was given to — Peach Thomas Rivkrs. — It is a very beautiful fruit, large, and of a splendid colour, skin jiale mottled pink, with very little green, the flesh of great thickness and juicy. It is a splendid addi- tion to this class of fruit. The fruits shown were from pot trees started on December 'JO. Mr. Gleeson, Warren House Gardens, Stanmore, staged nine Queen Pineapples, splendid fruits and with very small crowns. One was shown as a new variety, but the committee could detect no differ- ence. A silver-gilt Knightian medal was awarded. Mr. Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton, sent a large quantity of Tomatoes, and Cherries Early Rivers and Bigarreau de Schreken. The Tomatoes were in six varieties. The fruits were tested for flavour, and Royal Jubilee was con- sidered excellent. Golden Nugget and Sutton's Dessert being of equal merit as regards quality. The other varieties were Abundance, a beautiful fruit. Peach Blow, and Best of All, the last-named a medium-sized fruit of great excellence. We do not care for the colour of Peach Blow, though it does not lack flavour. A silver-gilt Banksian medal was awarded. Some excellent Tomatoes were sent by Mr. Rolfe, Stamford-le-Hope, Es.sex, the flavour being liked and the fruits very shapely. These were named Rolfe's Challenge. The com- mittee had an excellent opinion of their quality, but as plants are growing at Chiswick, they wished to see the cropping qualities before giving any decision as to their merits. Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Ltd., Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, sent baskets of Cherries Guigne d'Annonay from pyramid trees in the open. This variety was stated to be some daj's earlier than the Early Itivers, and it appears to be \ery prolific, the fruits, of a dark red colour, being in large clusters. Royal Sovereign Strawberries gathered from the open ground, from plants layered last .July, were staged by Mr. Wythes, Syon House Gardens, Brentford, to show the advantages of growing the Strawberrj" as an annual, as the fruits are earlier, finer, and of excellent quality. A very good seed- ling Melon was sent by a Mr. W. Coates, but there was no address. Unfortunately, the fruit was not ripe, but the committee desired it to be sent again. A new seedling Pea, Early t,>ueen, was sent by Mr. Edwards, Grove Lodge, Guild- ford. This the committee asked to be sent to Chiswick, as it is impossible to test Peas unless the growth is seen. The weather in West Herts.— During the past week there occurred but one unseasonably warm day, when the temperature in shade rose to T.'i". The nights, taken as a whole, were also cold for the time of year, and on that preceding the •2tith the exposed thermometer fell to within 4° of the freezing point. Both at 1 foot and ■! feet deep the ground is now of about seasonable warmth. Rain fell on five days during the week, and to the aggregate depth of nearly three- quarters of an inch. No measurable (juantity of rain-water has now come through the light soil percolation gauge for over three weeks. The first Public Gardens. PRIVATE GROUNDS AND THE PUBLIC. No more specious measure, i)crhaps, was ever introduced into the House of Commons than the " Access to Mountains " Bill. Under the guise of an artist, a botanist, or an admirer of Nature, the tourist was to be allowed to roam over grouse moors and deer forests, possibly to his own delight, but to the undisputable confusion of the man who paid a large rent for the right of sport- ing over the ground. Farmers, too, were opposed to the mcasuie, as the tourists and their dogs would have much disturbed the sheep. Putting aside the fact that a succession of trippers would have completely put an end to that quiet which is so necessary for moors, forests, and sheep farmers, we urged, on each occasion of the Bill being in- troduced, that many of those who would have taken advantage of its provisions, had it become law, would certainly not have comported them- selves as sober artists and botanists should. Eggs, if found, would doubtless ha\e been abstracted if any tourists were abroad in the nesting season; while other damage would have been committed to the detriment of the owner of the shooting ; for it has long been notorious that some people will abuse the privileges extended to them. Of this we have a very recent instance. The Earl of Malraesbury had for some time been accustomed to throw open his beautiful Rhodo- dendron forest at Heron Court, near Bourne- mouth, to the public ; and to wander there was a treat which could not be otherwise than highly appreciated by numberless visitors to that seaside resort and the district. Then the order went forth that the public were to be excluded, and it is only the other day that a daily journal stated the regret expressed that Lord Malmesbury still continued to close the forest against strangers. This note brought forth a reply from the owner of Heron Court, "No one," wrote the Earl of Malmesbury, "regrets it (the closingof the forest) more than I do ; but I had no alternative, owing to the behaviour of visitors from Bournemouth, who set la " and order at defiance and my woods on fire." Here is a pretty indictment against tourists, holiday-makers, and others who afore- time availed themselves of being allowed to enter private grounds ; yet nobody who knows the country well will say that Lord Malmesbury has been guilty of the least exaggeration. It is a common enough saj'ing that property has its obligations as well as its rights, and, up to a certain point, the saying is true. As a rule, we venture to think, no one realises this more than those who own large and picturescjue parks, and in different parts of England houses and grounds are thrown open, under certain proper restric- tions, to the public ; but it is unpleasant to relate that people will get out of the way of the cicerone or attendant to commit some petty damage. Many years ago. Lord Hill's fine park at Hawk- stone, in Shropshire, was thrown open to the public, who were allowed to picnic therein ; but the concession was so far abused that broken bottles were left about, with the result that both horses and deer were lamed ; so the public were no longer allowed to take provisions with them, but were obliged to make their meals in an hotel which was built at the entrance to the park. It should surely not require much thought to cause people to remember that broken glass left l}"ing about must be a source of great danger to human beings as well as to animals ; and when Oxford races were held on Port Meadow there were in most years accidents arising from this very cause for some days after the racing was over. Private parks and gardens cost a good deal to keep up, and the privilege of walking in them is highly valued by all, careful and careless alike ; ancf, while it must be admitted that there are not a few careless and dishonest visitors, there are at the samo time many who are careful not to do any damage. Many owners make a charge for viewing show houses and grounds, dividing tho receipts among local charities and charitable institutions. This, of course, to some extent docs away with the presence of the objectionable class, but not entirely ; for complaints have been made of damage by several owners who do make a charge. Anyone who finds his woods, his grass, or his gorse fired, may well feel annoyed at this return for his kindness, and no one need be sur- prised if he clones his doors to casual visitors, as the Earl of Malmesburj' has been compelled to do, in consequence of the loss he has suffered by his plants and trees being injured and his woods set on fire. There is in Devonshire a show house, in which the one piece of furniture was a fine old Oak chair, and round the house visitors were allowed to ramble free from any restraint. Twenty J ears ago or more so many names were cut on the chair that there was room for no more ; and this habit of disfiguring everything that can be cut or scratched is one of the curious freaks of the holi- day maker and tourist, who think that no place which they may have visited is properly honoured unless it bears their names. There are people who steal flowers from the graves and borders in cemeteries ; while the public parks in London and elsewhere are not free from the pilferer ; readers at the British Museum have been known to mutilate books — in short, wherever people have access to something with which they cannot pro- vide themselves, in a large number of cases they deliberately set themselves the task of doing injury and wrong. The picture galleries and libraries of some of the great London houses have been occasionally thrown open on Sunday after- noons, and in one or two cases some slight injury to something has subsequently been discovered. It is hardly possible to over-estimate the enjoy- ment to hard-worked people of going for recrea- tion, not into a desolate open space or a disused burial ground, but into a well kept private park, or into a comfortable private gallery, instead of bare public rooms ; but the misdeeds of a few cause theciilree to be denied, and, in the emphatic words of a contemporary, and cjuoted by Lord Malmesbury, "The British public has to suffer for the behaviour of the British cad." Sauce for the goose is proverbially sauce for the gander, and we have purposely laid a good deal of stress on the fact that those gentlemen who do their best to add to the pleasure of the poorer members of the community have every right to expect that, in return for the concession-) they make, respect shall be shown for their pro- perty and convenience. If this respect be not shown, the place is closed, as has been Lord Malmesbury's Rhododendron forest, and several other places. But on the sauce for the goose and gander cjucstion, how about the farmer who finds that his concessions are abused ? The owner of the park which is closed against visitors simply warns them off: but farmers have to be more long-suffering still. Year after year they see their crops ridden over— not by those who go field for field with hounds, but by those who are half a mile behind the pack. They see their gates left open, their fences gapped by those who have not the pluck to ride boldly at them, and they find people taking short cuts over their land when going to the covert side or returning home after hunting. In noting these matters, we are very far from saying that private parks and gardens should not be closed against wanton visitors ; still less do wa invite aggrieved farmers to warn hounds off their land because they have suffered a certain amount of injur}' at the hands of the thoughtless. The real subject of the moral is the hunting man himself. He, at least, should not be blind to the fact that if the owner of an estate is justified in closing his grounds to an unedu- cated class because of the damage its members do, the farmer would be e>ing .. 25 Stove and Greenhouse :— Carnations, Malmaiaon . . . . 28 Crinuni Moorei variegatuni.^ 28 Fuchsia General Roberts .. 28 Pelargonium, double, Char* bon Ardent 28 Pelargoniump, zonal, with spotted flowers 28 Richardia EUiottiana Rossi.. 28 Kirhardia EUiottiana Rossi. . 28 ytreptocarpufl Wendlandi . . 28 Societies :— National Carnation and Pico- teo 31 National Rose 29 National Viola 29 Royal Horticultural . . . . 31 Hotes of the Week :— Begonia Florence Nightin- gale 31 Brier, Sweet, Anne of Gerol- stein 31 Buddleia globosa 31 Campanula G. F. Wilson . . 31 Campanula mirabilis .. .. 32 Cypripedium spectabile . . 32 Foxgloves and Larkspurs .. 32 HomerocalliH aurantlaca ma- jor 81 Iris juncoa. 31 Lavatcra arliorea variegata . . 31 LiHum Marhan 32 LQium Wittei 82 LupinuB polyphyllufl Somer- set 31 Mocassin Flower, the .. .. 32 Orchis maculata superba . . 82 Ostrowskia magniflca .. .. 31 Paionia albiflora striata., ., 31 Phlomis Uueselliana .. .- 31 Phttjnocoma prolifera Bamesl 31 Pink Albino 31 Primula Trailli 32 Rose Lady Mary Fitzwilliam 81 Rose Mrs. W. J. Grant .. .. 81 Silcne alpestris 81 Sweet Pea Princess May .. 31 Tropjeolum polyphyllum . . 82 Obituary :— Miller, Mr. W. . . « . . . . 82 Miscellaneous t— Manure cards for show ex- hibits 27 Weather, the, in West Herts . . 82 The Market Garden. GOOSEBERRIES IN KENT. As is well known, Kent is the principal centre of commercial fruit culture, and, owing to the varying conditions of soil and situation, the county may be divided into sections, each producing its own fruit. One district is the favoured home of the Strawberry, from another more Raspberries are produced than from any similar area in the kingdom, and a third is noted for its Cherries. Kentish Cobnuts flourish in the brashy soil on the gently sloping hill-sides, where other fruit will not grow satisfactorily, and in rich fertile districts Apples, Pears, and bush fruits grow to perfection. It may sound strange to hear of any particular area being noted for Gooseberries, for in every garden in the kingdom this popular fruit is found. This seems to point to the fact that the Gooseberry is an accommodating fruit without any particular fancy for soil and situa- tion, yet it is only in a few places where the cultivation of Gooseberries is treated as an industry. In private gardens the Gooseberry quarter is generally in a sheltered position and necessarily limited in extent, but in Kent Gooseberries are grown in the open fields by the acre, and it is from these favoured districts that the tons of fruit that find their way into all parts of the metropolis and other great centres of population come. Anyone travelling by road from Canterbury to Sand- wich may, by leaving the main thoroughfare and threading through the little villages that lie on either side, pass into one of the centres of commercial Gooseberry culture. It is not the only one in Kent, as other districts are simi- larly noted, but here the deep sandy loam grows corn and Hops as well as bush fruit to perfec- tion, and an hour could not be more pleasantly spent than in the plantation of a Kentish fruit grower who is interested in his occupation. Many of the growers are freeholders and own their own plantations, varying in extent, but giving an idea of the returns that must be obtained from a small area of land to pay per- centage on capital, wages, expenses, as well as provide a livelihood for the occupier. When I was in this neighbourhood a few weeks ago Gooseberry picking had just commenced, and women and girls were gatliering the fruit and depositing it into the round sieves to be dis- patched to the London markets. The Goose- berry crop is an important one on account of the two seasons of picking, and when the bushes are well laden, as is the case this sea- son, the first picking is done as soon as the fruit is large enough. This takes the form of a thinning, as, except in a few cases, the bushes are not entirely stripped, but simply eased of their burden, so that the remainder of the fruit may develop for gathering in a ripe state for preserving. I learnt that prices have been low this season, no doubt owing to the heavy crop. Pests. — This season the bushes have a clean, healthy appearance, and the deadly caterpillar has generally been conspicuous by its absence up to the present. The Kentish grower has many enemies to contend with. The county abounds with the feathered tribe, and early in the spring they play havoc with the buds. In many villages sparrow clubs are formed for the extermination of the pests, against which regular crusades are made by members of the clubs. Great dift'erences of opinion exist as to the damage done by birds. One grower will tell you that they are a nuisance, and another in the same village takes no trouble to destroy them, asserting that they do nothing worse than thin the buds. The caterpillar in some seasons is a plague, and a plantation badly affected presents a pitiable appearance, with the leaves stripped to .skeletons in a few days unless stringent measures be taken to check the onslaught. Another pest more difficult to destroy than the caterpillar is the Gooseberry mite, which causes the bushes to assume a sickly yellow appearance. During the dry weather of last season it was very common, and caused the death of many old bushes. A grower informed me that he would not keep old Gooseberry bushes, as they only encouraged the mite, and as soon as they began to show signs of decay they were grubbed up and the ground given a change of crop. By judicious arrangement the plantation may consist of sec- tions containing bushes of various ages, so that when one is done away with the loss is only .slight, as there is another ready to take its place. When bushes are marked for grubbing up they are not pruned, but allowed to carry as much fruit as possible, and all this is gathered green, after which the bushes are at once destroyed. Priining in the early spring is an important operation, some men being very expert at it. Kentish growers generally have firm faith in proper pruning, an:l one may readUy observe that the largest quantity of the finest fruit is obtained from plantations where pruning is thoroughly understood and carried out. The question of ^^VRIETY is important to the growers. In the first place the earliest green fruit realises the highest price, and therefore the sorts pro- ducing the first saleable berries are largely sought after. Crown Bob is one of the most popular varieties and is largely grown, as the fruits are suitable for gathering either green or in a ripe state. Lancashire Lad is another kind that is largely grown, and Whinham's Industry appears to be increasing in popularity, though I have heard complaints from growers that its dull appearance when ripe is a draw- back when competing with others in the market. The other day I saw a plantation of Greengage Gooseberries, a fine large variety of dwarf, sturdy habit that might be grown in private gardens with advantage. In the district I refer to a popular variety is one raised locally and called Couzin's Seedling. The fruit is large and yellow, and the bushes are strong growers and crop freely. The variety is a good one for market, and, so far as I know, it is grown but little outside the neigh- bourhood where it was raised. If widely dis- 14 THE GARDEN. [July 9, 1898. tributed, I feel sure this variety would be largely grown, but the raiser guarded it so jealously, that up to the time of his death, so I was informed, it was not grown outside his own plantation. Other sorts are to be seen, but generally the list is limited. Taken as a whole, Kentish Gooseberry growers are a shrewd class of men, ready to take advantage of anything that will tend to their benefit. They have, doubtless, room for the complaints they make, particularly on matters of distribution and where railway rates are concerned. Their knowledge of horticul- ture does not extend far beyond the limits of the fruit plantation, but here there is much that is interesting and instructive in studying the commercial side of Gooseberry culture. G. H. H. Kitchen Garden. SALADS IN SUMMER. There has seldom been a more favourable summer so far for salads, the cool, moist weather being all in favour of Lettuces and Radishes, the two most indispensable of all salad plants. In many gardens there is a diffi- culty in finding positions cool and moist enougli for these, yet in good tilth, for it is useless planting or sowing in lumpy, badly cultivated soil. Frequent sowings of Lettuces are impera- tive if a succession is to be kept up, and a good plan is to sow where they are to remain, thin- ning out the plants when large enough to trans- plant, and making a few separate rows of the thinnings. The check given to these by lifting and replanting is slight, but it is sufiicient to make them a little later than those left in the rows, and they make a useful succession. Sowing about once in three weeks will .secure a regular and constant supply all through the summer. The earliest sowings will, of course, be made under glass, and the plants put out on a warm border. Where Celery trenches are got out early the ridges between these are the best positions for the second early crop, and I am now taking splendid heads of Sutton's Favourite Cabbage Lettuce from these. This is one of the best of summer varieties and un- equalled for crispness and fine flavour, standing a long time before running, and early in the season it comes in before any other I have tried, being fit for use in so small a state. A good succession to the earliest crops of this variety will be found in the brown-seeded Cos, plants that have stood the winter on a warm border. Rows of Lettuce do capitally between Peas, the ground being usually in good con- dition for the latter, while the partial shade provided suits the Lettuce well. Any of the fine white Cos varieties that are now to be had under so many difi'erent names are good for such a position, sowing at the same time as the Peas between every other row, and filling the intervening ones, after the Peas are staked, with plants drawn from the seed rows. Both crops come ofi' together, or at least soon after each other, when the ground, without any other preparation than hoeing, is ready for the latest winter Greens or spring Cabbage. Radishes may be very similarly treated in spring, but, not being so long in the ground, are often sown between other crops, as early Carrots, dwarf Peas of the Chelsea Gem class, and others. It is true that no amount of care in a hotsuramer will give us tlie fine succulent roots that we have had so far during the pre- sent year, but on good soil, with a little manure sown in the drills to give the young plants a start, a fair sample may be grown all through the summer. Chives, Mustard and Cress, and other of the smaller salads may be kept going with very little trouble in most seasons, and a favourite addition to the salad bowl in many places is a few leaves of Tarragon. Tomato Dessert The bright red fruits of this little Tomato are very attractive, and although of course the weight per plant would fall far below that from plants of the larger kinds, it is very free. They are liked in the raw state, and in anj' case they would improve the look of the dessert early in the season, even if the fruit was not cared for. They appear on long bunches in a two-ranked manner, nota spreading bunch as is usual, and a bunch taken off the full length and laid on Vine leaves looks very pretty. The flavour is singularly sweet and pleasant, many people who do not care for ordinary varieties eating this. The plant is of good habit, the fruit set- ting freely and coming quickly to perfection. It is met with under a great many names. — H. Cauliflower First Crop.— At p. 490 "A. D." writes of the value of early Cauliflowers. Many of the earliest kinds are selections from the popular Snowball, but that does not make a good selection unpopular, as if a kind that gives a little more size of head without loss of earliness can be obtained it is a distinct gain. First Crop, though not much larger than Snowball, is an ideal Cauli- flower for sowing under glass at the end of January or early in February. Like Snowball, it may be had fit for table in a little more than three months it sown thinly and given attention. For forcing I find First Crop invaluable, as its leaves are small and the flower is firm, and though not large, quite big enough. From plants sown in a cold frame early in March and planted out on a warm border I am now cutting {.June 18) small compact heads. These are grown between rows of 3-feet Peas.— S. M. Summer Cabbages, Iklain Crop and Match- less.— For some years a great deal of attention has been paid to early Cabbages, and rightly so ; but in a backward season, such as we are now experiencing, a good breadth of Cabbage to come in during June and July is welcome. No one can grumble at the C|uality of Ellam's, but I do not advise it for use at the season named. Main Crop and Matchless are excellent varieties to follow Ellam's. They are not too large and remain a long time fit for use. Another good point is that Matchless sown in the autumn is little inferior to Ellam's as regards coming in. Main Crop is cone shaped and of equally good (juality as Matchless. Some growers may not require summer Cabbages. I do not advise them unless they are young and clean, but where a large quantity of vegetables is needed they are serviceable. Many put out small plants of the autumn sowing for a summer supply, but I prefer to sow the varieties named at the end of February or early in March. — (!. Wythes. The Onion crop.—" H. R." (p. 490) says the present season has been a favourable one for sowing, as germination was rapid and sure. " H. R.," I think, must have had more favour- able weather than we have, as I never remember a season when the Onion seed was so long in germinating and the plants so weakly at the start. So badly did my plants look when pushing through the soil, that I again sowed a few rows, thinking it wise to do so. I only need medium- sized bulbs and do not sow under glass, but the ground is well done — indeed, it was the Celery quarter and the soil is light. The plants during the past week or two have made good progress, but they are fully a month later than last year owing to the delay at the start. There was no lack of seedlings, but they were very weak. I have heard numerous complaints of slow germina- tion this season, and it may be owing to the seed not being so well matured and the cold, sunless weather we experienced when the seed was start- ing. The plants from seed sown six weeks after the usual time are now as large a.s those sown early. Winter Onions planted out early made very slow progress, and some plants raised under glass, that I saw early in May, when set out looked very sickly. — West Middlesex. An early Potato — Ninety-fold. — Needing early Potatoes as soon as possible, I have for years planted the earliest kinds. Of course there is some risk in early planting, some varieties being much hardier and more robust than others. This season the new Ninety-fold is my best and earliest kind. The season is later than usual. I have in previous years lifted earlier than the first week in June in light soil on a warm border, but I ff ar many will not lift nearly so early this year. Ringleader follows closely, but is not so prolific. 'The new kind has a much stronger growth, with erect, strong haulm. I was much pleased with Ninety-fold last year, and planted a much larger quantity this year early in March. The crop I am lifting has only been three months in the soil. This is good work for such an incle- ment spring, as I notice less robust kinds are very late. Ninety-fold is a white-fleshed, kidney-shaped tuber, and certainly the heaviest early kidney I have grown. Not only does it crop well, but boils dry and mealy, the flavour being excellent, and this in a season we could scarcely expect such good quality. — G. Wytiies. Large Spinach. — Mr. E. Beckett sent to the recent meeting of the fruit committee leaves of a Spinach called The Carter that measured 15 inches from base to point, and were 1.") inches broad at the base. But whilst admitting that such leafage as is referred to exhibits good culture, one is tempted to ask, who wants itV Is it probable that such leaves would be at all so pleasant for food as others not one half the size and which have been much more quickly produced ? But the variety does not under ordinary garden culture produce such coarse leafage. I showed in The Garden some time since that this particular Spinach was the well-known Longstander under another name, and although the committee at the Drill Hall asked that the variety be grown at Chiswick with the Longstander and the Viroflay, yet the result is a foregone conclusion. I have often observed when visiting gardens that, in spite of all that has been written about the excellence of the two varieties named— Viroflay, or Victoria, and the Longstander — gardeners continue to adhere to the Old Flanders, still thinking that the round seeded and the prickly seeded are diverse because sold as summer and winter Spinaches. If growers of Spinach will but try either of the newer ones, and especially the Longstander, thinning the plants well in the drills, they will not care to revert to the Old Flanders variety. — A. U. Early vegetables on open borders.— This cannot be considered an early season, although some three or four months ago it promised to be extremely so. This season I gathered the first dish of Peas {Chelsea Gem) on June 8. These are grown every year at the foot of a south wall and above Apricot tree roots, and nothing can be more satisfactory. These were sown the first week in January. Sharpe's Victor Potato gave good tubers on June 1. These were grown at the foot of a low wall facing south. It is astonishing how the warmth from the wall helps to swell the tubers. Such situations are most useful, as they can be readily covered at night in the event of frost. The first Cauliflower was from plants wintered in pots in cold frames, and planted out on a warm border. Tliese were ready the first week in June, shaking hands with late Broccoli. Early Erfurt is the Cauliflower I grow. Turnips were ready on May 28. These were from a warm border, the kind being Extra Early Milan. The large amount of rain during May just suited these. I cannot find any Carrot to equal a good stock of Parisian Forcing for earliness. This, sown early, comes into use in June, and, although small, the roots are tender when eaten in a small state. In Cabbage Lettuces I find All the Year Round as early as any. Hicks's claims the first place for early Cos kinds. I obtain the first supply by JoLY 9, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 15 planting these and the true Bath Cos at the foot of vinery walls. Those sutler considerably through the winter from slugs, but not so much as in the open. It was astonishing the difference in the I ime of Cabbage coming into use compared with last year. My method is to plant in Onion ground, doing this lirst from plants raised from seed sown at the end of July, and again about August 'J. I plant only the small growing kinds, (lood heads can be had early in April. — DoltSET. CABBAGE SPROUTS. I no not think that anything I have written on this matter can be construed to mean what Mr. Wythes implies in his opening sentence (p. 509), viz., that I hold the sprouts of Cabbages to be of better ([uality than the original heart, and cer- tainly in the note (p. 411) which he criticises I make no allusion whatever to quality, though I have in former notes held, and hold still, that given good culture the tpiality is equal. I think nothing of the plea as to tidiness, and see nothing untidy in a well-kept Cabbage bed bristling with good sprouts. My bed now is as free from weeds and old leaves as any spring-planted bed could be ; certainly the growth is more irregular, but regularity cannot exist in any bed after cutting commences, and I see no reason why it should exist, as 1 do not wish to import the principles of carpet bedding into the kitchen garden. Except through stress of circumstances, such as loss of crop through winter frost or through bolting, I see no reason for sowing such a hardy vegetaole as the Cabbage in heat at a time of j'car when the glass department in most gardens is in a congested state, and I manage very well to keep up a succession without it. Of course, keeping the old stumps about for a couple of jears is out of the (piestion in any well-managed garden, and I disclaim any sympathy with the practice, but it is a badly-treated Cabbage bed that will not stand a season's growth without exhaustion and yield profitably all the time. I should like to echo Mr. Wythes's pertinent query as to the need for so many varieties to provide a succession. I see no such need. With many so-called new varieties of Cabbages and other things there is a distinction without a difference. If quality and suitability increased in the ratio claimed by the distributors, we should now be eating Cabbages of the quality of the best Asparagus, and what our Peas would be like is beyond conception. — J. C. T.\llac'K. Mr. Tallack's case is so strong in favour of these that he needs no support from me or any- one else in favour of this practice of leaving Cabbages to yield one, two, or more crops in suc- cession, after the cutting of the first heads. Few modern practices have been more justified through long years of experience and prolitable results. In fact, Mr. \\'ythes hardly questions either the quantity or tiuality of Cabbages produced on the sprouting system, and confesses that he has never tried it. This very material fact, however, does not prevent Mr. Wythes from condemning this sensible mode of further utilising the Cabbage. No one, so far as I am aware, has found fault with Mr. Wythes or any other grower who prefers con- verting the Cabbage into a short-lived, once-cut nunual. If that system suits and pays them best, doubtless they will follow it, but it is manifestly unfair to accuse those who would increase the produce of individual Cabbages with untidy or i-lovenly modes of culture. Mr. Wythes brings two more direct charges against the sprouting of Cabbagfs : the system favours the growth of weeds and the exhaustion of the soil. After a practical experience of over forty years of this mode of growing Cabbages, I emphatically deny the first charge. It must be a strong weed indeed that can hold its own amid a break of sprouting Cabbages ; the Cabbages, by mere force of numbers and vital energy, choke out weeds. And then as to soil exhaustion. This is easily neutralised or prevented through an occa- sional soaking with house or stable sewage, soap- suds, house slops, or dressings of other liquid or solid manures. Tho dense shadow of tho Cab- bage sprouts also protects the soil from losing food through sunshine, air, wind, &c , while the deep- ruiming roots are not bad cultivators. No prac- tical ditliculty has ever been found in obtaining, under liberal culture, first-rate crops in succes- sion from land that had been under Cabbages and sprouts for from twelve to eighteen months. Mr. Wythes' chief fault with the sprouting system is that it produces a plethora of sprouts, and not that the sprouts are neither good eating nor pro- fitable for sale.— D. T. F. I consider there are times when Cabbage sprouts are very useful. When planting in autumn I always put out three or four kinds, and arrange them so that there are a few rows of a large, late- hearting type on the side of the patch where I can leave them advantageously. These follow Ellam's and give heads after the former are over. These are left to give sprouts. All the quick-hearting kinds are cut, the stumps pulled up, and the land roughly dug and broken down. This year I am using it for Carrots. I removed two or three rows of these quick-hearting kinds and planted two rows of early Potatoes early in May, and am hoping to get them ofi' in time to plant small- growing Cabbage again at the end of the summer as a trial. I consider stumps standing long on the ground very exhausting to the land. I doubt, as regards quality, if heads in November were cut from those giving a second crop and from plants that had been planted at the end of the summer and cooked, anyone could tell the difference. I must admit, as far as tidiness is concerned, old stumps are to be condemned. It is astonishing what a large quantity of nice young heads and in a very short time one can get in the autumn when the plants are put out a foot apart each way. Will Mr. ^^'ythes tell us if he plants the same kinds in October, November, and February, and if so, what is the difference in the time of their coming in V I plant at twice, September and end of October, using four kinds, and by so doing I can keep cutting over a long period. — Dorset. Potato Famous. —Last year I grew a few rows of a medium-sized kidney under the above name, and was so pleased with the results that I resolved to give it a further trial. Twenty rows were accordingly planted on a south-west border on March 3 last. On the same date and on the same border Sharpe's Victor, Myatt's Prolific, and several other well-known sorts were also planted, and a trial lifting took place on June 18, when it was found that Famous had quite out- distanced all others in point of earliness. The tubers were large and ready for use, while Sharpe's Victor will require another fortnight liefore the tubers will be tit, and the others a still longer time. In point of yield Famous is, perhaps, not quite equal to Sharpe's Victor, but, according to results, it surpasses it in earliness. It is a white kidney, and the quality when cooked is excellent. I shall reserve a good stock of seed tubers of it for another season's trial, when it will be interesting to see whether it will again prove as satisfactory as it has done this year. — A. W. Seakale. — Growth in Seakale is very backward indeed for the time of year, and at the time of writing is now only ready for the thinning out of the young shoots. Where crowns are required early for forcing this tardiness of growth will prove a serious obstacle, for they will not be ready in time, unless measures are taken to for- ward growth as quickly as possible. To do this, liquid and artificial manures can be relied on, and the surface of the soil should also be kept well stirred so long as it can be done without damag- ing the leaves. Quick-acting and soluble manures, such as salt, muriate, and sulphate of potash, also nitrate of soda, are best applied before rain falls, or while it is actu.ally falling. If applied during dry weather, the precaution should always be taken to well mix the chemicals with the soil by hoeing it to a fair depth, when little or no waste will occur. Liquid can, of course, be applied at any time when it can bo spared, and where this and the labour for applying it ai<. plentiful artificial manures are unnecessary. Pei manent jdantations which yield the latest sup plies of Kale are also better for a little help i n tho way of food, and, like the above, they ma have this so soon as the thinning of the young growths has been done. — S. E. P. Lettuce Commodore Nutt. — Usually this little Lettuce is grown only for early spring use in pits or frames, but for private use I claim it is as good if not better than some of the larger- growing kinds. In gardens of limited extent, where a long sui>ply is needed from a small space, this variety should be chosen, at any rate, for the early summer supply outdoors. At the present time I have it in quantity with hearts as full and solid as possible ; indeed, although appearing small, there is more material in it than is found in some of the larger growers. It has stood the spell of dry, hot weather uncommonly well and is slow to run to seed. Early Paris Market sown at the same time, and which has been fur- nishing fine heads of a beautiful colour, is running to seed almost to a plant, showing that it cannot endure summer drought so well as Commodore Nutt. All Lettuces delight in good soil, and the smaller ones in particular need this— at any rate, in summer, or their diminutive size is still further decreased and the (juality deficient. — Wilts. Cabbage Lettuce All the Year Bound.— This is an excellent companion to Hicks' Hardy Cos, as, like that variety, it is very hardy, and always stands well outdoors through the winter. I grow the same number of this sort as of Hicks' Cos under the shelter of walls for early work and am never disappointed with it. I tried Grand Admiral one season, but it was not nearly so satisfactory, and have discarded it in conse- quence. All the Year Round is also first-rate for wintering in cold pits. For this purpo.se the best way I find to deal with it is to have the plants in three stages of growth. At lifting time the first lot should be fit for use, the next lot three-parts grown, and the remainder about one-third of their natural size. There is then no difficulty in keep- ing up a good supply through the winter and early spring months and until those under the walls outdoors are ready for use. The same kind is also principally relied on to afford a regular succession of firm hearts during the summer months. — A. W. EARLY BROCCOLI. The early Broccoli crop is more easily managed than a later one, as if the heads form in the autumn a large portion of the crop may be lifted and stored. To get good results, planting should not be longer delayed. Of late years some excel- lent additions have been made to the early varie- ties. One of the best is, doubtless, Veitch'e Self- Protecting, a variety too well known to need describing. It is not' advisable to [jlace all the crop on one quarter, as by giving difi'erent posi- tions a longer succession is secured, and in warm localities, in light soil, a south border is too sheltered for the main crop. Of this variety I plant a small portion in the position named, but the bulk of the plants in an open quarter, as tho growth is hardier. Another excellent variety is Sutton's Michaelmas White. This follows the Protecting. Walcheren is also a good type for autumn use. Any of the above-named are reli- able for use from September to December. Many do not grow the early Broccoli as much as the late Cauliflowers. I prefer the Self-Protecting Broccoli, as it is milder in flavour than the Cauli- flower and with care m.ay be had well into December. I wish that the Self-1'rotecting varieties were more hardy, as a few degrees of frost soon injure them. Walcheren is also similar to the Cauliflower as regards hardiness, and, though I include it in my list, it is not so reliable as the Protecting, the heads not being so well covered with foliage. On 16 THE GARDEN". [JcLY 9, 1898. the other hand, it is earlier than the one named and valuable as a succession to summer Cauli- flowers. Last season I had some half dozen varie- ties of early Broccoli on trial. One I grew in 1896 was so excellent that I g;ave it more space last year. This was Sutton's Superb Early White. In many respects it is not unlike the old Snow's Winter White. Superb Early White is not a large Broccoli, but it has a beautiful head, perfect in shape, snowy white, and, what is so valuable, it is hardier than many I have grown. In 1896 it stood the frost uninjured. This is in a measure owing to its dwarf, sturdy habit and abundance of thick leafage which covers the flower. This variety, sown in April, was ready early in January, and the heads, if lifted and stored in a shed or cellar, remain good for weeks. Another stock of great merit was Sandringham. This is a re-selected Snow's Winter White, and if the stock keeps as good as it was last year it will be a gain to growers, as it turned in freely during January, at a time the Broccoli is valuable. Christmas White promises to be a popular variety to follow the earliest kinds. The plant is a dwarf grower, with medium-sized leaves protecting the head. It should be planted at the end of June or early in July for cutting at the season named, as I find, like Snow's, it must be given a fair season's growth. G. Wythes. Potato Snowdrop.— Good late-keeping Pota- toes are always valuable, and any kind that can be had good from digging time up till new ones come in from the open ground deserves extensive cultivation. These remarks apply forcibly to Snowdrop. I had not given it a trial till two years ago, when I saw it at Downham Market. I was then pleased with it and resolved to try it. Last year I planted a good breadth of this kind on a piece of land I worked by the plough and dressed with the refuse from the pleasure grounds. It produced a fine even crop of tubers of the very best size for the table, the (juality also good and the flesh white and mealy. I have used this Potato from October till the present time (June 9) and can see no difference since I commenced using it. With me Snowdrop is not a strong grower and was not badly diseased. — Dorset. Early spring Broccoli. — In planting the mid-winter supply it will be well to allow as long a season of growth as possible. I have found it advisable to select strong plants, giving an open quarter and ample room. A few years ago, when it was possible to obtain a true stock, there was no variety to equal Snow's Winter White. For two or three years I have relied upon Penzance Early White and Superb Early White. These are the two best early spring Broccoli I have grown, but they should be planted as early in July as possible and be well attended to in hot, dry weather in the way of moisture. As a succession to those named to come in during March it is well to plant Veitch's Spring White or Main-crop ; these in favourable seasons are ready early in March. The latter is a remarkably hardy Broccoli ; though termed a main crop variety, it is really an excellent late winter sort. — S. M. Potatoes. — I have rarely known the early Pota toes so late as they are this season. In many cases it will be necessary to consider, now July is in, whether the earliest Potatoes must not make way for green crops. In some few cases the Pota- toes are ready to lift, but in many, growth this year is much later, and to lift for storing is not advisable, as unless the skins are set they will not keep. I am following a middle course wherever possible. I allow a fair width between the rows, and, in the case of small-topped varieties, plant a green crop between the rows. By using a little care in lifting the Potatoes, the plants are not injured. In some cases the haulm of the Potatoes may need placing in position before planting. I have at times shortened it if the variety was full grown. This season my earliest Potato is Ninety- fold, and excellent it is in every way. It is a good plan to go over late quarters and remove rogues ; they can now be seen at a glance, and if left the stock becomes much mixed and less rehable. — S. M. Cauliflower Early Forcing. — Nice heads of this, somewhat larger than a large breakfast cup, were available in the week ending June 11, and this from seed sown the first week in February. Autumn-sown plants kept all through the winter would not be much before this. I have never been able to do this Cauliflower well, except by potting up the seedlings and planting with a good ball from the pots. Pricked out and transferred from the open ground, the plants club, and that despite every precautionary measure, the only means of carrying the crop fairly well through being a heavy soaking of water, and earthing well up, that the roots emitted above the club may carry the heads through. This, however, is not advisable if potting up can be practised, as with plants partially saved from the club there are a hardening of the stem and a deterioration of the head both in size and quality. — E. B. C. Late Broccoli. — Scarcely have we done cutting the last of the so-called spring Broccoli, my latest this year being the excellent June Monarch, than we have to consider next season's crop. I find, unless the plants have a long season to make their growth, they are not always reliable. Most years I have been able to plant the late Broccoli on land cleared of Strawberries, and being short of space I shall be obliged to do the same this year. Owing to the later Strawberry season lam unable to clear the crop so early as desired ; so to avoid starving the plants in the seed-beds they are being transplanted to rows 12 inches apart in the row with 6 inches between the plants. They will lift well with a trowel later on and soon make up for lost time. I grow the Strawberries as annuals mostly, and the land is in good condition for the Broccoli, as it only needs surface cleansing. I have found no varieties of late Broccoli to equal Model and Late Queen for April and May sup- plies. These two are reliable, very hardy, and the cream of the late kinds. June Monarch is invaluable as a succession. This follows the two named, and there is no difficulty in keeping up the supply till Cauliflowers come in. — S. M. Early Peas. — Of early dwarf Peas, St. Osyth Gem, Chelsea Gem, and William Hurst, sown on a south border in November, there was nothing in point of earliness between the two latter, both being ready at the same time. Chelsea Gem is a trifle stronger, but the two are so nearly alike that it is hardly necessary to grow both. St. Osyth Gem has a stronger haulm, is slightly taller, and rather later. It is larger alike in pod and pea. In this matter of a successor as a dwarf Pea to the first earlies it is doubtful if anything is better than Daisy, to combine that is the characteristics of a capital cropper with first-rate quality. In connection with Potatoes it has been remarked that if only one variety were grown it might well be Windsor Castle, and so if a grower were restricted to one Pea he might do worse than rely on Daisy. In the open quarter the first sowing is two rows respectively of Veitch's Selected Early, William the First, and Criterion ; they follow each other well in the order named. — E. B. C. Autumn-sown Onions running to seed. — It is curious to note how few have complained of their Cabbage going to seed, but it is strange that so many Onions should run to seed. I always sow at the end of August on deeply- worked ground, and being a very mild winter I had no losses among the Onion crop early in spring. When thinning them out those that were not wanted were taken up carefully and planted out. When they commenced to grow I saw that a good portion of them w.is going to seed. Of the White Spanish, Newnham Park, and a selection of my own at least half has gone to seed, nor can I see the least difference in those that were planted out. A very large percentage of the Tripoli section has gone to seed. It is clear it must be owing to the season, seeing that the treatment is the same as in former years. No doubt the mild winter is the cause of the Onions running to seed so badly this year. — Dorset. Vegetables at Bichmond. — This is the earliest of the summer exhibitions at which vege- tables are largely shown, and, certainly for the season, a first-class beginning was made. If later shows see a material advance in finish and quality the product will be fine indeed. Peas were splendid samples. Of these in the numerous ex- hibits, Duke of Albany and Early Morn were capital. I should like to see in Peas more individuality. The finest pods, and markedly distinct, were not named. Potatoes also were generally good. Very handsome were Supreme, Satisfaction, Ashtop Fluke, First Crop, and a rather too large, long, flattish seedling. The finest Tomatoes were Perfection, generally so shown, Duke of York, Eclipse, and Excelsior. In these fruits there is so little individuality that one variety may have a score of diverse names. Still, some of the dishes were exceptionally good and rich in colour. The chief Carrots were the Early French Horn, called here Early Gem and Early Forcing, and the Nantes or Summer Favourite. These were small, as Carrots gene- rally are shown, yet very tempting samples. Canadian Wonder and Magnum Bonum were the best, and excellent dwarf French Beans. Mam- moth Longpod, Leviathan, and Seville were the names given to Longpod Beans, generally long, clean, and handsome ; Model and Improved Telegraph, the best Cucumbers in the collec- tions ; and Magnum Bonum, Walcheren, First Crop, Defiance, and Mont Blanc the Cauliflowers. Certainly in these the only distinctions are found in the names. The heads as shown, very white, solid, and of nice table size, were all like one another. There were also white Lisbon Onions, giant Lettuces, Asparagus, and Turnips. All these things show that even with a late season and very little sunshine, yet even so early as mid- summer superb vegetables can be exhibited. — A. D. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— KITCHEN. Peas. — How wonderfully well Peas look every- where this year. My own trials in three diverse par- 3 of the county of Surrey are excellent. Tbey could not well look better, and in fields where grown for market the breadths are very vigorous and clean. It is true, Peas are very late in podding this season, but there should be a wonderful supply in the market presently. — D. Too many Broccoli.— I note " G. W." (p. 310) spealis very highly of Monarch. Will he kindly gay it: this is later than Latest of All and Methven's June 'f I see that a correspondent in a contemporary points out that there was a sameness in a goodly number of so-called kinds at the Temple show. I cjn spe little difference in the kinds of to-day as regards lateness compared with kinds I could name that were growa thiity years ago. — Dorset. Late Q,ueen Broccoli. — This is a very useful variety, especially where there is little con- venience for keeping autumn-sown Cauliflowers through the winter. The plants are dwarf and the curd is well protected by the ample foliage until fit to cut. In the open quarters I cut the first heads in the last week^n May, and there will be a succession for three weeks at least, and this at a time when green crops are not too plentiful or good in quality.. — H. R. Big Radishes. — I am glad to see "Cornu- bian " making a protest against these (p. 510). I do not object to large specimens of anything, pro- vided the quality is first-rate ; but I yet have to learn that big Radishes are good. I am aware one often sees them large on the market, but this does not prove they are then at their best. In big towns many purchasers know nothing of the standard of quality, size being the first considera- tion. Recently I went into a shop and saw some of these big Radishes, and on tasting one I found it so hot and strong that there was no comparison between it and roots of French Breakfast, young and tender, growing in my own garden. — J. Crook. July 9, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 17 Orchids. L.«LIA PURPURATA. TiiK subject of tlio accompanying illustration is a piece . Since that time I have grown it on until the present specimen has been obtained. During t!ie past thi-ee sea- sons it has produced in the aggregate nearly 100 flowers. The plant is grown in an ordinary stove temperature, where I grow also Vanda is well known in the trade treats his Dendrobes in a similar manner ; these 1 noteil as having been shaken out of their pots and soil, tlien laid on their sides under the benches filled with other kinds. This variety was Dendro- bium I'hahenopsis Schrcederianum, a nearly or (piite deciduous one, it is true. During the many years I have grown the plant in ([Uestion 1 have never rested or eased it by not allowing it to flower, as some do their Orchids. Kvery year it brings to perfec- tion its crop of bloom, whatever it may be. I am disposed to think we may, and do at times make mistakes in attempting to follow too closely the conditions which obtain in the native habitats of certain Orchids. We have not the surroundings, nor can we always imi- flatter in the pot, as T fail to see the gain in mounding it up too much. This L;elia was bouglit under the name of L. pur[iurata superbiens ; it has flushed sepals and petals, being identical with what is now known as L. p. Williaiusi. My reason for showing it was to illustrate the opposite theory to that under discussion anent the degeneration of Orchids. T might add that it is shaded during all bright sunshine, the same blind covering the stove Drac;enas and Caladiums. Jas. Hudson. Thunia Bensonise. — A good form of this species is very showy at this time of year and a nice contrast to such as T. Marshalliana and other white-flowered kinds. The stems when strong Lcelia purpurata at Qunnershury House, From a photograph fcy Mr. Gregory, Croydon. tricolor, &c., with Crotons, Dracasnas, Cala- diums, and small Palms as decorative plants. I mention this to show the temperature to which it is subjected the season round. It is never now removed to another house, which it is well to note. I did so on one or two occasions when in flower, but the bulbs shrivelled during the interval too much to please me. After one such case I decided to pull it to pieces and re-make it up completely, washing the roots and leaving it after the manner of an imported plant, only somewhat fresher of course. I shall not hesitite to do so again if need be, as I am disposed to think this is a good way to treat some < »rchids when not so satisfac- tory as one could wish. Another grower who tate them as we would like. For instance, during what we term the resting period we can easily keep Orchids too dry, and they suffer in consequence. They may possibly be (juite as dry in their native habitats, but with a far heavier fall of dew at night, which we cannot so easily imitate ; hence they should not be kept so dry at the roots when under cultivation. With me this L;elia flowers, as a rule, every year during the second or third week in June, yet possibly the temperature for the year would average more than that to which this variety is subjected when grown in the Cattleya house. I do not dejjart from the usual treatment as regards soil, which consists of peat, charcoal, and Sphagnum Moss, but possibly I keejj it are 2 feet high, and the flowers occur similarly to those of T. alba. The colour throughout is a rosy magenta, this becoming much deeper on the front of the lip, and the crests are yellow. Like the others, it must be grown (juite unshaded and well ripened after flowering, the roots being kept quite dry in winter. Oncidium dasystyle. — Though small, this is a singularly pretty plant, flowering at various times in the year. Not manj- flowers are pro- duced upon a spike, and these have yellowish sepals and petals, the lip having a blackish purple or crimson crest, giving it (juite a distinct appearance. I have seen it doing well under various modes of culture, but the healthiest, most free flowering plants are usually those grown well up to the light in an intermediate or cool house, the 18 THE GAEDEK [July 9, 1898. compost being kept very thin. It is a native of the Organ Mountains, in Brazil, and was intro- duced by the late Mr. B. S. Williams in 1872. Cattleya Aclandise.— This I have noted in good order this week, a nice plant on a large square raft carrying many flowers. The plant needs care, but is more satisfactory treated to a little compost than when grown on a bare block. At the same time it is easy to give too much, and this causes the roots to become unhealthy, and the vigour of the plant is reduced. A great advantage in using rafts is the fact that nearly all the old compost may be removed and new substituted without disturbing the jilant — an important point when dealing with this somewhat erratic species. It is best grown in a good light in the Cattleya house. — H. THE ATMOSPHERE OP ORCHID HOUSES. The keeping up of a correct and well-balanced atmosphere in Orchid houses is an important detail in their management and one frequently neglected. So sensitive are many of the plants, that, no matter how well they are treated in other ways, they will not long continue in a satisfactory condition unless a proper atmo- sjihere is maintained about them. It is the one thing that in cases of difhcult subjects is want- ing in our houses, for unquestionably we can treat these difficult subjects to better conditions as to a rooting medium than they obtain in a state of Nature. But to provide a suitable atmosphere where air, moisture and some subtle element that obtains in the open air of their native habitats are always properly blended is impossible in the limited capacity of a glass- house. In consec[uence, some species which are naturally of a vigorous constitution go on and improve under cultivation, while the more sensitive gradually become weak. Some of these are probably only short-lived in the natural state, but this does not hold good with others of which plants are imported that in the ordinary course of events must have taken many years to develop. As a means of overcoming this difficulty we are occasionally treated to long disquisitions as to the conditions that obtain in their native habitat. Such a plant is found growing fully exposed to the sun, another in the depths of a thick forest where the sun cannot possibly reach it, and by following a course of treatment apparently agreeing with this, beginners in their culture have been led to forget that cir- cumstances alter cases, and that what is per- fectly right and proper to a wild plant is quite out of place when that plant is taken away from all natural influences and cooped up under a glass roof. This is quite wrong, and, helpful as all such infyrmation is to form an opinion as to what will suit a certain plant, to follow it literally must lead to disaster. The proper atmosphere of an (Jrchid house, as we know it, is one in which the air is con- tinually changing, kept to a correct tempera- ture according to the state of growth of the plants, and duly charged with moisture and annnonia in some form. This is good as far as it goes, and the best we can do, but to follow the plants through their resting and •growing seasons, to supply on the one hand sufficient moisture for the plants' need, on the other to avoid extremes which may lead to a soft and flowerless growth, re- quires far 7nore care and thought than the average gardener or Orchid grower can bestow. The number of plants of different habits and likings which are grown in one house increases the difficulty. Here is wliere many beginners go wrong. They expect — in the gardening papers, for instance — to find laid down the exact mode nf treatment ; this is evident by the nature of queries that are often to hand respecting their culture. It W(juld be easy enough to say that a house must be damped at such a time and air be admitted at another, but such a way of teaching would never make any- (me sure of his ground any more than it would suit the plants, and, useful as it undoubtedly is, personal experience in and about the houses, reading the lessons that only the plants them- selves can teach thoroughly, is the surest of all roads to success. It would not, perhaps, be correct to say that what is pleasant to the senses is right for the plants, but at the same time it is easy to tell, on entering a house, whether it has that buoyant feeling that is necessary, or whether it is reeking with too abundant moisture on the one hand, or dry and draughty from too much air and fire-heat on the other. Fire-heat must be tempered by mois- ture, and the air currents must be in accordance with the outside conditions. With a cold wind blowing it would be folly to put on as much air as on a soft, mild day, and even if the sun is bright on such occasions, the balance is more easily kept right by closer shading and free damping. Heavy damping, again, on dull wet days is wrong, so obviously wrong, in fact, that few will fall into this mistake. As to providing the ammonia, there are several ways of doing it, such as by placing sul- phate of ammonia on the pipes, damping with soot- water or li(|uid manure. A little dry soot and lime sprinkled about out of sight under the stage, too, has an excellent effect on the atmosphere, and is very distasteful to slugs and small snails as well. It will be noticed that all these aids to a correct atmosphere are more last- ing in their efi'ects in a house of fair capacity than in a small, narrow one, where the first upward move of the ventilators takes out the greater part of the moisture from the atmo- sphere. So that here again discretion must be used, a. small structure needing more replenish- ing of the atmosphere in comparison with its size than a larger one. These are the most salient points to be noted, and others unavoidably left out will occur to the grower as his experience widens, and he finds by this experience what an important point a proper atmosphere is. H. R. Cattleya Leopoldl. — The earlier spikes of this distinct Cattleya have been very fine, a nice spike with eighteen large flowers being especially good. This is from a plant imported about two years ago. The individual blossoms are nearly 4 inches across, the sepals and petals coppery green, with deep purple spots, principally about the apex and margin, the lip bright purple. The plant is a strong and vigorous grower and of easy culture, growing from the base in spring and rapidly forming a large stem-like pseudo-bulb. After the flowers are over and the bulb has fully developed, keep the plant fjuite dormant, but allow sufficient moisture to prevent the least shrivelling. It is a native of Brazil, and was intro- duced about 1850. Dendrobium moschatum. — This is a fine old species, but its flowers, unfortunately, last but a short time in good order. Still, while they are fresh the bright yellow of the sepals and the rich maroon blotch on the lip make a fine contrast, and a large well-flowered specimen is very impos- ing. The stems grow G feet or S feet high, are leafy over the entire length at first, and go on several years producing these fine racemes of flower. They are, moreover, produced in a longer succession the same year than those of most Den- drobes, especially the evergreen kinds, for as often as not all the racemes on such as D. densi- florum have the flowers open at once, while on D. moschatum there are often many in bud at the time others are fully open. Naturally the plant requires a good deal of room, but beyond this it is of the easiest possible culture, and will grow equally well in the Orchid house proper or any warm plant or fruit house. It roots freely and likes large rough lumps of peat and charcoal, and consequently a large pot. Water must be freely applied as long as the growth is active, but in spring, when the young shoots push from the base of the old stems, too heavy watering is inadvisable. It is a native of Burmah, and was introduced about 1825. Ornithocephalus grandiflorus.— This is the only species of the genus that has become at all popular and is a pretty plant when well grown. The pseudo-bulbs are hardly perceptible at the base of the sheathing deep green leaves, and the spikes appear to spring from the base of the leaves, similarly to those of Miltonia vexillaria. The pseudo-bulb is there none the less, only small, and from it the spikes proceed, each about 9 inches or 10 inches in length, arching and many-flowered. The sepals and petals are white, with a greenish blotch, the bent column — from which the genus takes its name — being in this species pure white. A native of \arious parts of South America, it must be kept fairly warm and likes plenty of sunlight. I saw some fine plants of it in flower recently growing in company with other Orchids on flat blocks of wood and only very little compost, these being hung up at the end of a house largely devoted to La^lias of the anceps and similar types, and consequently only lightly shaded. As the spikes of flower are form- ing often in the winter months, the roots should never be much dried, and during the summer the small amount of compost renders very close atten- tion necessary, as it is a thirsty subject. Though discovered by Gardner as far back as 18.37, it is only during recent years it has been at all well known in cultivation. — H. HOULLETIA BROCKLEHURSTIANA. Theke are many good and showy garden Orchids that are by no means well known or popular, and although this plant is frequently met with, it cannot be said to receive so much attention as it deserves. It is the type species of the genus and the finest of them all, the erect, many-flowered racemes of reddish and yellow blossoms being very distinct from everything else. The pseudo- bulbs are egg-shaped, about 3 inches high, and from these the flower-spikes proceed. The roots are rather sensitive to disturbance, consequently when giving a shift itis well to allow plenty of room, and use a lasting yet rough and open compost. I have seen good results follow the use of loam in addition to the usual peat and Moss mixture, but I would not advise it for weak, badly-rooted, or unhealthy plants. Like so many other Orchids, the roots do better for a substantial compost, provided they can be induced to take to it with a will, but a plant with its roots only occupying about half the compost allowed it never holds itself steady in the first place, and, owing to the unoccupied material getting sour, the roots on approaching it lose their tips and die back. The preparation of the compost then and the size of the pot or basket used wiTl depend upon the health and vigour of the indi- vidual plants. The atmosphere about the plants must always be kept moist, especially while young growths are forming. In a dry atmo- sphere they are never satisfactory, the pseudo- bulbs seldom swelling up to their full size, and the foliage is liable to insect attacks. So, too, in a very light house ; the plant likes shade from summer sunshine, air and moisture always about the foliage, and plenty of water to the roots. It is the practice of many good growers to surface the compost for this and similar Orchids with Sphagnum Moss in order to retain moisture, this growing up around the base of the bulbs and helping materially to keep insects in check. So far it is very good, but a little of it must be July 9, 1898.] THE rJARDEK 19 removed on the approach of winter, as it holds more moisture tlian is rociuirod by the plant. With refjard to temperature the plant is not fastidious, luit for preference a house devoted to Brazilian Cattleyas and La'lias should bo chosen where the miiiiiii"m night temperature is about ■IS". H. lUockleh I'btiana is a native of various parts of Bra'.il, and although it first flowered in this country m 1841 in the collection of the gentleman whos? name it bears, it had previously been grown on the Lontinent. H. Dendrobium Farmer!. — Apparently many plants of I), thyr.sitiorum and 1). donsillorum are sold as 1). Farmeri, as frequently I have received flowers of these species labelled I). Farmeri, the correspondents asking the dillorenco between them. The true 1). Farmeri has loose racemes of pale yellow flowers, the disc of the lip deeper than the other parts of the flower, and, though some varieties bear a resemblance to the other species named, they are totally distinct from either. As a rule it flowers later in the season, and is a very species, for it is easy to tell at a glance whether or not a plant may bo included in it. The sepals and petals are usually of a .soft rosy blush, occa- sionally spreading well, but often only partly opening. Disa Veitchi. — Many growers are far from successful in cultivating the richly-coloured Disa grandillora, and, in fact, arc in the habit of pur- chasing plants frc<|uently only to .see them flower well about onco or twice and after that dwintlle away. In this hybrid Messrs. Veitch have given us a plant e(|ually showy and beautiful, but with a much better constitution, or, rather, more amenable to culture, for the old species is vigorous enough when well grown. D. Veitchi is a hybrid between 1). grandiflora and D. race- mosa, a species noted among Disas for its ease of culture. The sepals are bright carmine, the inner portion of the lip nearly pure white, with an abundance of crimson spots. The plant may be freely propagated by means of olT- shoots, and these rapidly grow into flowering plants in a cool, moist and shady house if arranged Ploioers of the Dittany (Dictamnus Fraxinella). From a photograph setit by Miss Uutley, Derward's Mall, Booking, Braintree. fine species. It is a native of the Khasia Hills, whence it was introduced in 18-47. Cattleya Mossiae aurea. — As in many other varieties of this species, the individual plants vary considerably, and, as a rule, the flowers are under the average for size. The sepals, too, often lack the width seen in the best varieties. A small, newly-imported plant now in bloom with me for the first time is much finer than usual, the yellow zone on the lip being large and spreading, and the whole flower of good size and substance. The aurea varieties have a very distinct appear- ance from all others, and a few plants help to brighten up a group of the species. It seems hardly worth while splitting these up as is done and labelling aurea grandiflora, superba, and others which diS'er little except in size from the type, but one, C. aurea marginata, as I noted it recently, seemed worthy this distinction. The lip was large and finely fringed, and the side lobes had a broad wavy margin of clear golden yellow. At all events the aurea group is quite a distinct section, and almost as clearly defined as some close to a ventilator or in some positian where the air current will play freely about the foliage. The best compost for it is peat fibre, a little leaf soil, and clean fresh Sphagnum Moss. If planted in pans with perforated sides there is less fear of the young shoots being smothered, as they find their way out through the holes in the sides. This hybrid first flowered in IS'.ll. Vanda limbata. — This is a pretty species but seldom seen in cultivation. The flowers occur on short racemes, and on the inside of the segments are of a deep reddish tint, margined with yellow, the reverse pale rosy purple. It is a fairly stout-growing plant with green leathery leaves, and delights in ample warmth while making its growth. The compost should consist largely of Sphagnum Moss and charcoal. Water must be freely given during the summer, and light dew- ings overhead help to keep insects in check. A plant I had under my care some years ago did well in a house devoted to Phahenopsids and tropi- cal Cypripediums, where it was suspended not far from the roof-glass. Each year a little of the old material was removed and fresh substituted, this keeping the plant in good health. It is a native of .lava, and was introduced by Messrs. Williams and Son, of llolloway. Flower Garden. DICTAMNUS FRAXINELLA. (dittany.) The Dictamnus is, perhaps, among the best known of old-fa.shioncd perennials, and as such often figures in wayside gardens in rural dis- tricts, where perchance the plants have been for years. Few plants resent eonstivnt inter- ference more than this. In these respects the Dictamnus is on a jiar with the P:eonia, and, once well jjlanted in deep soil, it may remain many years without disturbance. I remember some fine examples of the coloured variety that attained to fully 4 feet high and as much through, the plants occupying a position neai the margin of the lawn in a large garden neat London, where hardy plants were generally well cared for. The plants in question were placed originally one in the centre of each bed, other plants for the time being being planted around till the Dictamnus attained a good size, when the whole bed — a circular one — was given up to the plant in question. The Dittany is well suited to grouping on the grass, and tells to advantage especially where a sort of serpen- tine walk forms crescent-like recesses in the shrubbery border, and therefore on the grass which acts as a foreground. In such places good bold perennials are often eft'ective, and where more than the ordinary care is taken in planting them, the reward will come in greater vigour and finer specimens generally. One good point concerning it may be mentioned : it is its self-supporting chai-acter, no sticks or supports of any kind being needed. Just now the red and white forms of this plant are at their best, and where good plants exist they are very shoivy. Planting may be done in autumn or spring, but in the spring it should not be too long de- layed, as the plants may suBer from a dry summer. Autumn planting is preferable, pro- vided a deep bed of soil, which, if heavy or clayey, may be lightened with road-grit and leaf-soil can be given. In tlie matter of soil, however, these plants are not at all difficult to please, seeing how they luxuriate in common garden soils in various parts of the country. The Dictamnus may be increased by seeds or division, the former preferred. The seeds should be sown in the open ground as soon as gathered. A strong odour that is inseparable from the plant pervades the roots as much as the branches, and by which it may be readily recognised without seeing it. This odour is by no means unpleasant, but varies in its in- tensity. E. J. Columbines. — How strange it is to find that there are in gardens myriads of flowers, costly and otherwise, grown, too, with exceed- ing care and trouble, not one of which exhibits that singular grace, eleg.ance, and beauty the hybrid Aquilegias possess. It does not now matter how originated ; it is enough to know that we have these hardy flowers in almost wondrous profusion, and that from a packet of seed costing, perhaps, one shilling may be obtained 100 plants that will in two years rival in beauty any garden flowers we have. Seed sown now in a box, in pans or under a handlight, so as to enable the soil holding these h.ardshelled seeds to be moist, will give strong plants to put out in October. These will bloom moderately in the following '20 THE GARDEN. [July 0, 1898. spring, and quite luxuriantly for some three or four succeeding- years. It is wise, however, to make a small sowinc; annually, and outdoors this may be best done in the early summer. — A. I). Lupinus polypliyllus. — The herbaceous Lu- pines are wortliy of a little more attention than they have received, and anyone would do a great service who could gather together and grow a collection of the species available. Occasionally in botanic gardens one meets with a few plants not usually seen, but the number grown in these collections is verj' limited. None that I have j'et seen appear likely to drive out of cultivation the old L. polyphyllus, which is generally represented by three colours— blue, white, and blue and white. Of these I have generally preferred the bicolor form as being brighter than the first, and because the white variety has usually a provoking habit of dropping some of its flowers before all are expanded, and so spoiling the symmetry of the spike. The other day in going through the Daisy Hill Nursery, Newry, I observed one of the species, and on remarking to Mr. Smith that the genus wanted looking up and improvement, he led me to a bed of seedling L. polyphyllus then in full bloom. The plants formed a fine sight, as not only was there variety in the size of the flowers and the length and density of the spike, but also in the coloration. Among the whites, while some displayed the fault already com- plained of, others were free from this defect. There were some pretty shades of blue and some tints of purple besides the pleasing bicolor. A bed of these fine seedlings on the grass or in the shrubbery would look well. Others who have time and space might well devote some of both to raising seedlings of the many-leaved Lupine. — S. Arxott. GUNNERA MANICATA IN IRELAND. This Brazilian (iunnera when well grown is in- deed a magnificent and imposing plant. Young specimens give no idea of the effect of a well- established plant in congenial soil and surround- ings and receiving regular attention in the way of manure. I question if finer specimens can be seen anywhere in the United Kingdom than in Ireland. For waterside planting it is a favourite there, and nothing can surpass the beauty of a huge plant on a promontory or an island on a lake. I am not sure, however, that it is not being too frequently planted in this way, fine though it is. The individuality of lakes and ponds becomes last unless some originality is dis- played in planting, .and one is disposed to fear that Gunnera manicata is likely to be too fre- quently seen in some districts. This should not, however, tell against its introduction into parts of the country where it is little known and where its presence would create a new feature of the highest order. On a previous visit to Irish gar- dens I was much impressed by the way in which G. manicata was grown there. This year the impression was strengthened, although my en- gagements did not permit of my revisiting the finest specimen I have ever seen. This is at Narrow Water Castle, not far from Newry, where there is a plant of truly magnificent proportions. I am unable to give its height or the space covered by the leaves at the base, but its beauty may be surmised when one is able to tell that some of its leaves two years ago were 9 feet in diameter. It was in a specially favoured position, but much of its size is due to the careful way in which its wants are supplied. It appears that this fine specimen receives three loads of cow manure every year. I am told it is even finer this year. There is another very fine specimen in the noble gardens of Lord Ardilaun at St. Anne's, Clontarf, Dublin, where it is planted in a most skilfully chosen position by a sheet of ornamental water. It is cared for as liberally as that at Narrow Water, and may in the course of a few years assume as imposing dimen- sions. At Trinity College Gardens there is another very large specimen by the side of the pond, and when the Water Lilies are in full flower their beauty is emphasised by the contrast with the rugged, massive foliage of the Gunnera. At StrafFan House, Co. Kildare, Major Barton has also a magnificent plant, which I was not near enough to judge of properly, but which in the distance looked of great size. The same may be said of a good specimen by the side of a sheet of water in the Phu'nix Park, Dublin. In other gardens I saw smaller plants, but none were so fine as those I have mentioned. This Gunnera is hardy in the south of Scotland also ; and along the west coast, with shelter from high winds, which would break or disfigure the great leaves, it ought to be more generally grown. The conditions under which this Gunnera does best seem to be shelter from wind, a climate mild in spring, and planted in such a way that the plant itself is on a small mound, the roots having free access to moist, peaty soil beneath. Al- though the great beauty of the Gunnera consists in its foliage, the inflorescence attracts attention by its curious appearance as it stands up among the lower leaves. Wherever a good plant is seen it commands almost universal admiration by its tropical look and majestic mien. S. Arsott. THE MADONNA LILY. Year after year the stems and leaves of the Madonna Lily have been attacked, and in some seasons all the flowers have been spoiled by disease. I have long been an advocate of a .system which was I believe first recommended by "E. J.," viz., lifting and sun-drying the bulbs whenever the disease has been very pre- valent, for by keeping them out of the soil long enough to prevent autumn growth the spring attack does not commence so early and the spikes get forward enough to produce flower- buds before the attack becomes severe. Real progress in combating the disease has, however, been slow, and the spores must have wonderful vitality, as they have always come again with more or less force. For a few years past I have given a change of site each year, and have fancied that the disease was slowly disappear- ing, but scarcely dared hope that it would be beaten. lean, however, record that this year in a Vied of plants containing over 300 spikes not a dozen disease spots can yet be found, though the flowers are on the point of opening, so that one may surely expect a good season and a lessening of the crop of disease germs for next year. The bulbs were planted thickly in a specially prepared bed, where Lilies had never been before, the top soil being thrown out and a heavy coating of manure dug into the bottom spit. To test the in- fluence of deep V. shallow planting the bed was dug so that the bulbs at one end were only just covered with soil, and the depth was increased by a graduated fall to 6 inches at the other end. The only diflference noticeable is that the shallow-planted bulbs have the taller spikes, though the ditt'erence is so slight that probably if measured from the bulb instead of the surface there would be nothing to choose between them. Should no disease appear, I intend to leave the bulbs alone this year, as something in height and in number of flowers is lost by lifting ; but this is better than having plants eaten up by disease, and if one can by persevering master the enemy, it is worth try- ing. There are many conflicting opinions among keen observers as to the best means of combating the Lily disease, and I do not wish to assert that the deductions I have made from the results obtained are light. It may be that other unknown influences have been at work helping to secure immunity from disease this year, for the lifting and drying have been tried and found wanting in other places and other years. Still, one failure in an infected garden does not disprove the value of the practice, and I simply give the above as a record of things as tliey appear here, where the case was so bad a few years back as to make it appear that the Lilies were doomed. There has been no change of or addition to the stock in the meanwhile to account for change of condition, an I disease is still prevalent in the neiglibourhood. Lirennere Park. J. C. Tailack. FLOWER GARDEN NOTES. Hardy plants in formal beds.— Beds of formal character that some years ago were filled respec- tively in autumn and spring with the usual winter and tender plants have for some time been tenanted with hardy subjects. Since the appear- ance of flower on the Doronicums and Tufted Pansies a number of them have been bright. They are just now very gay and will last to the end of the summer. The planting of such beds with hardy things requires a little consideration and care, especially if the said beds are small and rather close together. Tall things of straggUng habit are not advisable, and a study as to the dif- ferent shades of colour likely to be produced is necessary. The large Doronicum is still flowering freely on a carpet of Tufted Pansies, and seems likely to last for some time. This long-sus- tained display on the part of this plant is perhaps not sufficiently recognised. It is a valuable characteristic, and its usefulness is thereby considerably enhanced. Campanula persicifolia and p. alba on carpets respectively of White Swan or Violetta and a good purple Pansy are suggestions for beds of comparatively small size that will be very pleasing, and this season the old London Pride (Saxifraga umbrosa), considerably later than usual, is looking very well with the blue Campanula. Pinks are just now at their best, and a fairly dense planting of Pinks in full flower is hard to beat, appealing, as it does, alike to the sense of sight and smell. For varieties like Mrs. Sinkins or Her Majesty, if any plants are wanted by way of contrast, I would strongly recommend the deep foliaged herbaceous Lobelias, the contrast being both striking and effective from early in May right awaj' to late autumn. For sorts like Anne Boleyn and Ascot other sub- jects are not so easily found, as anything planted to contrast with the flowers would perhaps not be seen to the best advantage with onlj' the foliage. If Carnations are employed in beds in prominent places where anything in the way of gaps has to be studiously avoided, it is well to defer planting until spring, and also, if possible, to have a cer- tain number of each variety reserved in nursery beds from which to draw in case of failure. For beds of somewhat larger size than those already under consideration, a combination of Pyrethrums and Tufted Pansies may be strongly recom- mended. Bold clumps of the former in selected shades, as Aphrodite (white), Solfaterre (prim- rose), Florentine (blush - white), Celia (pink), Ormonde (bright rose), and Melton (crimson- scarlet), may first be planted, and the Tufted Pan- sies filled in in variety as the taste of the planter may suggest. A thorough soaking of water may be recommended if the weather prove hot and dry, when the beauty of the first flowers is slightly on the wane. By this means the old foliage is pre-* served until the young growth has made fair pro- gress, and with the necessary attention given to the Tufted Pansies the beds will be attractive until quite the end of the season. The claims of Antirrhinums and Pentstemons have already been advocated in a note on plants obtained easily from seed. It is only necessary to add that they make very charming beds, and that their endurance will be considerably prolonged by a rather early removal of the central spike as soon as the bottom flowers show signs of dropping. Some larger beds can also be devoted to the earlier flowering Phloxes, of which very fine varieties are now available in colours ranging from pure white to a deep purple, many ditl'erent shades in mauve, rose and pink intervening. I have noted " earlier July 1), 1898.] THE GARDEN. 21 flowering Phloxes," but although they are earher in iiower than the section more generally Iviiown, they last a long time. If decaying pips are picked from the main truss, back buds will push their way to the front, and if the truss itself is nipped oil', smaller spikes will develop from its base and prolong the display. Many more things might bo advanced as suitable for the purpose in connection with the species already enumerated. There arc, however, a wealth in colour and a variety in shade in these suthcicnt to make any ord'nary sized formal garden gay from spring to autumn. 1 should like to suggest that in all dower garden arrangements it is advisable to choose tloworing plants as much as possible rather than those things only noticeable for their foliage. 1 mean, for instance, that white Tufted I'ansies, I'inks or Antirrhinums are preferable to Dactylis glomerata or Centaurea candidissiraa, and the dark-foliaged perennial Lobelias to Iresine Lindeni or the dark C'oleus. Seedling hardy plants noted in a recent number are now well on the move. Attention should still be given to partial shade during bright weather and (in the case of tiny seedlings) careful watering, the object being to keep the jilants growing steadUy without the tendency to driw. As soon as the young plants get a hold of the soil, by all means run through them to remove weeds. If the latter are allowed to make headway, their removal is only eflected at the cost of considerable root-disturbance of the young seedlings. Home- saved seed of Polyanthus has come up remarkably well, and as it was saved from good strains in half a dozen different shades, I am looking for- ward to some fine flowers. E. Burrell. ClaremoiU. Pyrethrums.— It is surprising what a single crown of a Pyrethrum will do in a year provided it has not been starved in the pot a whole season ; and all such having been lifted, divided, and planted into good rich ground, will be infinitely superior a year hence to a spade-divided clump tive or six times the size. The (juality of the blooms, as also the quantity, will also leave no doubt as to the superiority of the system now advanced. Like many other hardy plants that grow freely, these Pj-rethrums may be left too long without division, and where this is the case the flowers are poor and insignificant. Three years as a maximum in one spot is long enough, and far better, as also easier of resuscitation, where a rigid system prevails of breaking the plants up into quite small pieces every two 3'ears. By following this method, there need be no lack of these tine border flowers in .lune. Janksea Heldreichi. — It may, perhaps, in- terest some of your readers to learn that this has this year for the second time Howered freely and strongly at Ketton. The position and the ap- pearance of the plant are well shown in the photo- graph I send you. The plant has been where it now stands for, I think, six years and has not much increased in size ; it showed no sign of flowering until last year, when there were some five blooms borne on three stems. This year there are fi\e stems, bearing eleven flowers. The colour is deeper than that of Ramondia pyrenaica, which is growing near it. Another plant, bought a year or two before as a seedling, increased to several crowns, but was lost by bemg removed to a more sunny position, which it was hoped might induce a tendency to bloom, which it had never shown in its original and apparently more congenial shade. This species is, I am told, now scarce in the trade, and one is averse to running the risk of losing even one plant by experiments in cultivation. I shall be glad, tlierefore, if any person who has been successful in growing it can give information as to its wants and the best methods of propagating it. — (Mrs.) Si'san H. BrKROiKiiiEs, /<;, Lower Bn-M'i/ Sireif, 11'. Garden Pansies. — Although many of the Pansies proper are of weak constitution and not .able to hold their own against the tufted kinds, there is always the chance of raising something fine in colour and vigorous in habit that is as hardy and continuous in (lowering as the latter, yet preserving the round form and largo size of the Uowers. When I tuok charge here I found a sceilling Pansy under an old espalier Apple tree that bloomed very profusely all through the summer, ami propagated from it freely. It has been a glorious sight during the present spring, and is now a perfect ma.ss of colour. The blos- soms are mauve with bluish purple markings, but it is of a somewhat sportive character. The broad lines of mauve were a lovely contrast some time ago with the yellow Alyssuni saxatile on each side a walk in the kitchen garden, and on another border I have had two-year-old plants — masses nearly a yard across — alongside various other spring flowers. All the latter, of course, are gone, but the Pansy is as brave as ever, and on account of this continuous blooming, the neutral tint of the flower that seems to go happily with anything else, and its splendid constitution, I would rather lose any other plant I have than this.— H. Pink Mrs. Sinkins. — Although the flowers of this variety are larger and equally as sweet as those of the old garden Pink, there is still room for both. The continued rains have somewhat marred the appearance of both, but they are very beautiful in large clumps, formed by planting about a dozen young plants and allowing them to stand three years. The flowering will now be soon over and propagation may commence. They may be grown from cuttings easily, this being less trouble than layering, and where no reserve ground exists, it prevents the unsightly business of moulding up and pegging. The cuttings will consist of the short, stubby side growths stripped off' with a little of the old wood, and my plan is to select a semi-shaded border and mix with the soil equal parts of old potting bench refuse and burnt earth, preparing this a few days in advance and watering well should the weather be dry. The cuttings are dibbled out rather closely and covered with hand-lights or small frame-lights. If lights are plentiful, a more open spot may be chosen, the cuttings inserted at greater distance, and the lights removed when the cuttings are well rooted. But here it is found more conve- nient to transplant to an open place as soon as well rooted, this resulting in strong, yet compact little plants for grouping as described, or with the Mrs. Sinkins for potting for early flowering. Where the soil is inclined to be heavy and bad working, the addition of leaf-soil, burnt refuse, or anything that will make it more friable is well repaid, and in this mixed class of soil the Pinks grow well. They like a sunny, open position. —II. NOTES ON HARDY PLANTS. Saxifraga Cotyledon gracilis. — So far as I have been able to find out, this third name has little or no printed authority, which is saying a great deal, as, perhaps, no genus of hardy culti- \ated plants has been more overdone with names authorised and unauthorised. Those, however, who knew the late Mr. Niven, of the Hull Botanic Gardens, will allow that he was no mean authority on Saxifrages : his collec- tion was complete, carefully named, and splen- didly grown. I believe the present plant was one of his own raising; anyhow, I had it from him with the name as above. He said it would be worth looking after. It may be described as S. Cotyledon in miniature, a good kind, with both flower and leaf features to commend it, the flowers, like those of S. Cotyledon, pure white, the panicles dense, fe.athery, and only 8 inches or 1(1 inches high. The rosettes are slightly over an inch across, of a deep green shade, and vi\ idly and evenly bedecked with silvery dots around the edges. It is a slow grosver, but not apt to go off like some of the hybrid forms of the Aizoon sec- tion, like, say, S. Macnabiana or S. Cotyledon itself, which is very liable to take the Saxifrage fungus. I hope that others may have had the same plant from the Hull collection, and that ifc may find its way into commerce, as it so well de- serves. Ranunculus Macaulayi.— Who can say if this is more than biennial, and even then if it ia capable of living in a severe winter out of doors, and, worse still to my mind, it is not a plant of much promise, for all the groat praise it came to us with ? The fact that 1 ask these questions about it suggests that the plant may not have had a happy home here, and yet it has been in commerce now three or four years and nothing seems to be said of it. Myosotis Traversi.— This is a dwarf and distinct Forgetme not, its chief feature being the small yellow flowers. It grows here about S inches high, has an oblique habit with its dark- coloured, thick .stems, which have blackish hairs. The stems are further notable from being much forked, long-jointed, and having a very few small leaves. Phyteuma comosum. — When once you get this rare alpine going, it proves a reliable plant against either drought or wet, though it is a slow grower. The way in which it makes itself com- fortable gripped between two stones and with its caudex well kept up not only enables it to with- stand to some extent both heat and web, but tends considerably to its interest as an object of special culture. A neater or more characteristic plant we do not possess as yet for the rock garden, nor a more charming or curious flower. Though a six-year-old pl.ant might easily be covered by the two hands, and sometimes one hand, it manages to make itself conspicuous to anyone when in flower, its thick Holly-like leaves being just as distinct as its other parts. Woodrille, Kirhtftll. J. Wood. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— FLOWER Chalk for Gentiana aeaulis.— In answer to ",S. T.," Ulverstone, in The G.VRriEX of June U), we are very much oa the clialk here. G. aciulis grows and flowers freely, but tlie leaves and bloom's are not so large as I have seen them ia richer soils.— W. H. S. M., The Down House, Dorset. The white Foxglove. — In large borders near shrubberies or in any semi-wild position the pure white flowers of this plant are very effective, but if planted in the herbaceous border, care is necessary that it does not overrun and spoil choicer things. It is planted here in a long border principally devoted to Rhododendrons, which is top-dressed annually with leaf-mould, and it makes immense plants that are very fine seen from a distance. — SriFoLK. Gentiana aeaulis in peat.— A lady recently told me that with her the Gentianella succeeds re- markably well in pure peat, the plants increasing and bloominf freely. I must confess that I should never have thouglit of using peat for this hardy flower, which I have always considered benefited by the presence of lime in the soil. We thus see how impossible it is to lay down fixed rules with respect to the rooting medium best suited to any particular plant. The plants in question are set round a Rhododendron bed, a good position for anything that the soil suits.— J. C. B. Three good showy hardy border plants. —The old double white Rocket (Hesperis matron- alis flore-pleno). Lychnis Viscaria splendens fl.-pl., and Campanula dahurica are valuable in the hardy plant border at this season of the year. In these three plants we have three decided colours —rose-pink, deep blue, and white. They are also useful for cutting and will stand a long tinie in water. Another recommendation to them is they do not need a lot of stakes to keep them up. They are easily propagated by cuttings or division. To see these at their best they should be grown in big masses from 2 feet to 4 feet across.— Dorset. Lilium pomponium verum.— Towards the end of .Tune this Lily is at its best, and in the border it makes almost as bright a show as will L. chalcedonicum later on. It reaches, ax a rule, a height of a yard or more. The individual 22 THE GARDEK [July 0, 1898. flowers are thick in texture, the segments grace- fully recurving, as in the difl'erent members of the Martagon group. This Lily does not increase very quickly. The smell of the flower is heavy and unpleasant. In any selection of hardy border Lilies this should have a place. Though belong- ing to the Martagon group, the leaves are not arranged in regular whorls as in the true Mar- tagon.— H. P. Destroyers. THE ASPARAGUS BEETLE. (CRIOCERIS ASP.4RAGI.) According to a leaflet just issued by the Board of Agriculture, this beetle often does much harm to Asparagus, esjjecially in beds which have been established from one to three years, by eating and disfiguring the heads as they are formed, and later on by attacking the stems and seeds, of which it is particularly fond, both in the beetle and larval stages. In the beetle stage the insects bite the tender Asparagus heads while these are yet underground or only just showing above the ground, making brown patches upon them and spoiling their appear- ance for market. Later on the beetles eat the feathery shoots of the plants, as well as the large round seeds, to which they are very jjar- tial. A beetle will eat a considerable (juantity of the tender featheiy shoots in the course of a day. The larvni are also most voracious, and sometimes, in bad cases of infestation, the long stems of the plants are left completely bare of foliage by successions of larvte. The Asparagus beetle is common in the southern, eastern and western parts of England, but it is rarely found in the northern districts. Canon Fowler, in his Coleoptera of the British Isles, states that he does not know of a record from any locality farther north than South Derbyshire. It is known in France,* Germany and Italy, and probably throughout Europe. In the United States, where it was introduced from Europe in 1858, it has spread very rapidly. It was first seen at Astoria, in Long Island, where Aspara- gus is largely grown, and by the year 1862 the beetle had spread throughout the Asparagus beds of Long Island. Life History. The beetle is about a quarter of an inch long and comparatively narrow in width. Its body is shiny black, with a blue tinge ; its head is black ; its ten-jointed antennas are dark brown ; its thorax is red, with two black marks or lines upon it ; and its wing-cases have outer margins of orange colour and black inner margins, and there is a transverse bar of black across them. Upon each wing-case there is a row of three yellowish or lemon yellowish spots or patches, which, with the transverse bar and the black margins, form the figure of a cross ; hence the beetle is termed " Cros.s-bearer " (the French call it "Porte-Croix"). Eggs are laid by the beetles in the early spring upon the heads, shoots, and feathery foliage of the Asparagus plants. The eggs are brown, long, and some- what cylindrical, being glued by their ends to the plants, usually in rows of three to five, but frequently they are placed singly. Larv:e come forth in from eight to ten days, and immediately begin to feed upon the Asparagus. The larval stage lasts for fourteen days, or for about this period, when the larv:v fall to the earth and undergo transformation just beneath its surface in a slight cocoon. The number of broods * Boisdaval fays that tbe Asparagus growers of Argenteuil, in France, complain that it is very detri- mental to their Asparagus culture. appears to depend upon the weather and the supply of food. Beatles and larv;e are fre- quently found upon the plants until the middle of < )ctober. The larva, which is about the fifth of an inch in length when extended, is of a dark olive-green colour, and usually has a black mark upon its back. It is thick, fleshy, and somewhat slimy, with a shiny black head and three pairs of shiny black legs : the lower end of its body is unusually prolonged to help locomotion and to enable the larva to cling to the stems and shoots of the Asparagus. There are also two rows of tubercles along the body, which have the appearance of rudimentary pro-legs. It has not been definitely decided whether this insect hibernates in this country in beetle or pupal form, but the evidence tends to show that here, and in other European countries, it exists during the winter in the latter form in the earth. The majority of the American entomologists, including Fitch, Lintner, and Chittenden, hold tliat the winter is passed in beetle form. Dr. Lintner says: " The beetles destined to continue the species survive the winter in dry sheltered places, as beneath bark, in crevices of wood, and under the boards of buildings." If hibernation takes place in the pupal form in England, the transformation occurs very early, as the beetles attack Asparagus plants directly they shoot and before the heads are above the ground, and, as is well known. Asparagus begins to shoot after the first few warm days in spring. Methods of Prevention and Remedies. In the first stages of this attack, that is, when the beetles are underground and feeding upon the juicy parts of the heads of the Asparagus as they are formed, it is ditticult to deal with them, though at this period they do considerable harm by making the heads brown and spotty. It is desirable to leave a few heads uncut in every bed where there is infestation as traps for the beetles, which get up the feathery shoots and branches during the day for pairing and the deposition of eggs. In the course of eight or nine days these plants should be brushed ofl" close to the ground and burnt. Another set of heads should be allowed to run to shoots, which should also be brushed off and burnt. Beds of young A.sparagus plants are most liable to this attack in the first year or two, when only the strongest heads are cut for market, as the beetles like the succulent shoots of young plants. It would seriously injure the stocks in newly-made infested beds to cut ofl" their shoots. In such cases it would be better to beat the feathery shoots smartly with sticks, and to tread heavily round the plants to crush the larvie. Very finely powdered lime dusted on infested plants would also be etticacious, as it would adhere to the slimy bodies of the larvae The lime should be applied as soon as the larvte are noticed, and the application repeated at intervals. In small beds, and in beds of young plants, hand-picking, both of beetles and larvie, would be useful, but this operation is too costly where Asparagus is largely cultivated. In extensive beds the remedies to be employed are liming and beating infested plants and trapping, as indicated above, by letting some heads grow into plants and brushing them oft' and burning them. Syringing can be adopted in gardens. Where Asparagus is grown upon a large scale this process is more difficult, as the plants are not set in rows, but it may be eft'ected by means of knapsack spraying machines. Kerosene emulsion, consisting of two gallons of kero.sene oil and half a pound of soft soap dis- solved in a gallon of soft water, may be used for spraying. The soap should be boiled, and while boiling the kerosene should be poured into it and churned up with the soap until it is thoroughly incorporated. The mixture should then be diluted with 15 to 20 gallons of water. Paris green is also a valuable remedy against these and other insects which feed upon foliage. It may be used at the rate of one jiound of Paris green to 200 gallons of water. It is better to put one pound of fresh lime with the Paris green. This mixture can also be put on with a knapsack machine. As this is poisonous, it should not be used till the Asparagus has been all cut. Spraying should be carried out before the foliage has become thick and strong. It will be necessary to repeat this operation, and it would be eftective against both beetles and larvio. It would be desirable to examine the roots of Asparagus obtained for making new beds, as the pup;e may be conveyed in these. In the United States infestation is extended in this way. Garden Flora. PLATE 1178. TULIPA KAUFMANNIANA. (with a coloured I'L.iTE.*) AMON(i the many rare and beautiful species of Tulip in cultivation in our gardens to-day the abo\e holds a foremost position in point of merit, as also in the handsome appearance of the plant when in flower. As may be gathered by a glance at the unopened bloom in the accom- panying plate, the flower is of large proportions generally, an item which good cultivation appears steadily to favour as the species year by year become more and more naturalised to British gardens. It frequently happens that some of the earliest flowered examples of any particular species do not impress one with either their distinctness or the representations that may have accompanied or jireceded the importa- tions that any given kind is likely to prove an acquisition. Further experience and acquaint- ance of the kind have, however, proved the reverse. The species now under notice is one of those that with its earliest flowering gave indications of a rather inferior article, while the flowers that have resulted from cultivated bulbs fully bear out the remark at the head of these notes. Among the early kinds it is cer- tainly one of the most handsome and as striking as it is distinct and pleasing. For several years past the species has flowered grandly both at Kew and at Ditton, and, as far as could be deter- mined by growth and flowering, it is a good doer, generally strong and robust, in each of the instances referred to. The species shows but little inclination to vary, and at Kew, where during the past year or two a nice little group has flowered well, the same characteristic is jn-ominent. In the "Dictionary of Gar- dening'' this species is described as having a "bright yellow perianth," and the segments oblong, acute, "without any basal blotch." Two varieties are also described in the same work, but none of these generally agrees with the flowering examples I have seen, and of which the coloured plate to-day is a faithful reproduction, with one exception, perhaps, and that the pure white shade to which prominence is given in the flower on the right hand side of the picture. Indeed, it is the creamy white shade of the broad reflexing segments, coupled with the golden orange base, that renders the * Drawn for The Oarden liy IL G. Moon. Litho- graphed and printed hy J. L. Goll'urt. The Garden July 9, 1898. A «* TULIPA KAUFMANNIANA JnLY 9, 1898.] THE GARDEN". 23 flower as a whole so vory conspicuous, if not unique. The widoly-oiicn tlowors ju-o often of great size. In tlie bud .st.ite, too, tlie reddish carmine tint that pervades the niari,'in of the outer segments, so well shown in tlie plate, is very attractive. So far as its culture is concerned, it differs in no wise from other kinds, all of which prefer good deep soil. T. Kaufmanniaiia is a native of Turkestan, and when in ifood condition attains 8 inches or so high, flowering usually at the end of March or early in April. Apart from tlie forms lef erred to above as mentioned in the "Dictionary of Gardening," and which, according to tlie names, have white and yellow variegated flowers respectively, is a tliird kind, called T. K. pulcherrima, said to be probably ft hybrid between the above species and the well- known and gorgeous-Howcred T. Greigi. This I do not remember to have seen. It is, I believe, one of M. Max Leichtlin's introduc- tions, wlio may be able to give some informa- tion concerning so interesting a cross. The following are worthy companions to the abo\e handsome kind : T. Batalini, a lovely soft yellow ; T. Kolpakowskiana, vermilion, very striking ; T. saxatilis, rose and yellow ; T. violacea, the earliest flowering of all, colour reddish carmine ; T. vitellina, pale primrose ; and T. retrotlexa, a lovely clear soft yellow. E. J. The Week's Work. KITCHEN GARDEN. Spring Cabiiai;e. — Preparations must now be made for the spring supply. Host growers do not care to rely upon a single sowing, as, if too «arly, the plants get too large and run. Again, ■if too late, the plants are not strong enough to stand our variable winters. As regards varieties there is no need to complain, as, given good soil at the start and attention to the plants, there will be few losses. This spring I do not know what I should have done without a good breadth of spring Cabbage, as the green crops ran to seed quickly, and the Cabbages, though a little later than usual, were most serviceable. I began cut- ting EUam's Early Dwarf the second week in April. I do not think there is any Cabbage to beat EUam's for spring use. I am aware there *re others which run it very close, but those who do not care for variety may rely upon the kind named. The nearest in quality and earliness I have grown is Sutton's Earliest. This, like EUam's, is remarkably dwarf, with scarcely any •outer leaves, and Favourite is also valuable tor sowing at this season. In the north, Mein's No. 1 is a great favourite and an excellent variety. This with me is a little later than EUam's, but equal in quality and very hardy. I make my first sowing during the second week in July, and place much importance upon the date, as it makes a, great difference in the size of plants. It should be borne in mind that a friable soil well manured is needed, as the seedlings must make a quick growth. I always sow broadcast and allow ample space, and, should the weather be dry, moisture will be needed to assist germination. In light soil I find it advantageous to make the seed-bed fairly firm, and by so doing the plants can lie lifted with more fibrous roots, and do better. In heavy, clay land one may with advantage improve the seed-bed by incorporating any lighter soil. I have used old potting soil and limestone ro.ad scrapings to advantage. I always make a second sowmg from the 20th to the 30th of this month of the same varieties, as, should the plants from the first sowing be too Urge, these never fail. On the other hand, there are considerable advan- tages in sowing twice, as from the earlier one heads may be cut at the end of March in a favour- able season ; the latter will give a succession. I plant a smaller portion of the first sowing than the second if the plants are at all largo when ready to plant. C.viiii,vi:e (.lUARTEHs.— It is full early to refer to the planting before the plants are through the soil, but it IS not out of place to advise as to the quarters neodetl for the plants. My earliest Cabbages invariably follow spring-sown Onions. This cro[> is much later than usual, but will bo cleared in time for the above plants. By utilising the Onion (juarter, the Cabbage is given the treatment it needs to build up sturdy plants, as mine being a light soil, it is made as firm .as possible for the Onions, and the cleaning and thinning during growth make the surface firmer, so that it is in good condition, having been well manured for the Onion crop. I merely clean the surface, draw drills, and plant, as I find with a tirm root-hold I do not lose one plant in a thousand by running, and severe frost does much less damage to plants grown hard from the start. Plants in recently -manured land make a soft growth. These lose a large portion of their leaves in bad weather, and are much weakened in consequence Many may not be in a position to give the quarter I have advised. Early next spring when growth begins I feed freely with licjuid manure, or with guano and fish manure failing the first-named. Small plants, like Cabbage, do not need strong manures at planting, as, having the winter to tide over, if too gross they bolt, and it is an easy matter to feed early in the year. Coi.EwoRTS.— I advised a small sowing of this useful vegetable a few weeks ago, and owing to the rainfall we have had of late, the plants will soon be in condition to plant out. It is surprising how quickly these plants grow when put out! Good land will give the best returns, as, unlike spring Cabbage, the earliest Coleworts may be cleared by November, so that it will ba necessary to give land a good coating of manure to get a cjuick return. Though many only make one sow- ing, much better results are secured by having a succession, so that another sowing at the middle of this month will give ample planting material. In planting at this early season, 15 inches apart in the rows and 9 inches to Pi inches between the plants will be sutficient, the Rosette variety need- ing less space than the Hardy Green variety. This latter I advise for a later sowing, to give a supply before the spring Cabbage turns in. Coleworts do well on land just cleared of early Potatoes, and, if manure is none too plentiful, any good fertiliser may be used previous to planting. I spread on the surface and then lightly fork in. Late dwarf Beans.— These are most useful in the late summer months, and if sown thinly there will be a good return. Many rely on the crop sown earlier for a supply, but the plants by the end of August are exhausted, and oftentimes red spider so attacks bearing plants in hot, dry weather that I have found it much more profit- able to make sowings at this season for a full supply in late August and through September. My late Beans are now being sown on land that has borne a crop of Cauliflower. The position is a sheltered one. I advise a sheltered place, as should we get frost early in the autumn it is an easy matter to cover some short rows of dwarf Beans to eke out a supply. For present sowing, Ne Plus Ultra, Perfection, and Early Favourite are excellent kinds. The two latter produce larger pods than Ne Plus Ultra, but are dwarf and very prolific. If a large Bean is desired Canadian Wonder is one of the best, but it is not so good for late supplies as for summer cropping. Latest cropping Peas.— For a supply from September to October it is well to sow the early kinds. It is now full late to sow tall kinds of the Ne Plus Ultra type. For this crop it is well to manure the land, a quick growth being neces- sary. My late varieties follow the early Potatoes, and being well manured the land will be in con- dition for a spring crop of early roots, such as early Turnips and Carrots. For present sowing Chelsea Gem, May Queen, and the Michaelmas Pea are e.xcellent varieties, and do not take mildew badly. These sown :{ feet apart and rather thin in the row will give a good return at the season named. To save time in dry soils I have soaked the seeds for a few hours previous to sowing, and secured a much ([uicker growth. Peas sown now need more care at the start, as birds are troublesome in country districts, and netting is a necessity. Drought also is a great enemy of the autumn Peas. It is well to sow in shallow trenches in light soil, and if labour is scarce it is a good plan to lay manure in the trench previous to sowing, placing a little of the top soil over the manure. If there is any doubt as to the vitality of the seed, it is well to sow thicker and thin after, as it will be too late to sow again if failures occur. As regards the position, much depends upon the soil and locality. Gloi'.e Artichokes. — These are now making a free growth, and will need feeding to got the best results, as, unless the heads are fleshy and succulent, they are not so valuable. Now is a good time to mulch with a fair thickness of rotten manure if the soil is light. I use cow manure, and find it of great benefit, as it keeps the roots cool in hot, dry weather. Few plants will better repay copious supplies of water or liquid manure, as owing to the abundant leafage the rain does not readily reach the roots. I mulch and then use the hose freely in dry weather. One thorough watering weekly will suffice, and the plants will give a large quantity of heads if kept well supplied with moisture. These plants will often produce too many heads, and in poor soils they will need thinning. It is also advisable to cut out the old stalks close to the soil after cutting, as these impoverish the plants if left. Leeks for spring use. — I grow a goodly number of these for use in the early spring, as, unlike many other vegetables, these will continue growing through a mild winter. I am not much in favour of growing the huge roots often seen at exhibitions. Those late in the spring are poor in quality. There is no difficulty in keeping Leeks well into May if the roots are grown for late sup- plies. The Leek is most useful at the time named, as the green vegetable crop is getting scarce. An open quarter is best, and a liberal dressing of manure is needed. Many grow in trenches, and in light soils drills have advantages, as the moisture and food are more easily applied. Excellent roots may be grown on the flat in rows 15 inches to 18 inches apart. Previous to planting I have found it a good plan to draw drilU. In planting, care should be taken to place the roots quite straight if a dibber is used. S. M. HARDY FRUIT. Strawberries i.n the open. — Lavering for FORCING. — In some cases this important work will by this time be well advanced, and in favourable localities, perhaps, finished. If so, all the better, as far as getting the work forward is concerned ; but those who have had long experience know in practice that if all of the potting up into fruiting pots be completed by the first week in August, they will have nothing to fear as far as vigour of the plants and well-ripened crowns are concerned. All layering for forcing should certainly be com- pleted by the middle of the month ; therefore during the coming week it should be the impoit- ant operation to be borne in mind and pushed forward. Commence by securing clean or as clean pots as possible (time in many cases will not allow washing now). Drainage may be dispensed with as superfluous, nothing beyond a small amount of Moss or rough soil, decomposed leaf soil, for instance, will answer the purpose well. Alake the soil tolerably firm, however, so that the ball does not break to pieces when the transference into fruiting pots takes place. Old Melon bed soil of last year if still in reserve will answer well for layering, as a little manure in it will encourage root action, but do not in any case use any soil that may come to hand, for a good start in root growth is an all-important matter. Leave sufficient room when filling the pots for 24 THE GARDEK [July 9, 1898. watering. Some growers fill them full ; this is a mistake, as may be seen at a glance ; the trade even are apt to do this, and thus the young roots suffer. Either pegs or the time-honoured stone will answer for securing the runners. The pegs will hold the runners more securely where layer- ing is being done upon beds still in bearing con- dition, but in other instances I prefer the stones, for the simple reason of expediency and of keep- ing the soil both moister and cooler where im- mediately in contact with the primary roots. Never depend upon second runners {i.e., the secondary runners from the first ones) if enough of any kind can be had without its being done, as these never make quite such good plants for forcing. Rather cut them all off as the work goes on. Attend well to the watering every morning when it promises to be a hot day, and always every evening as the sun leaves the beds. In a fortnight, or at the most in three weeks, all runners that are well cared for will be fit for potting. As regards varieties there are a few which stand out prom- inently, as may have been noted by the readers of The Garden from time to time during the forcing season now ended. Royal Sovereign is pre- eminently the first one to be chosen for the main stock of plants. It makes its runners in good time, and vigorous ones, too, if the plants be in good health. Last year my first stock of Royal Sovereign was taken from plants that had been forced and turned out six weeks or so previously. This 3'ear, however, the plants so planted out, instead of making runners, spent their energies in the production of a crop of flower-trusses, and that in spite of bearing good crops whilst in pots. Thus one cannot always depend upon the result of the previous year's experience. Last year the runners so taken were prominent the whole season through by their sturdy and well-advanced appear- ance. Next to the variety just named comes La Grosse Sucre'e, which for first early crops in some cases has proved to be more reliable ; it has with me. Its chief value is apparent for ripening up to about the third week in March. With me it does not make runners so kindly as in the case of Roj'al Sovereign, but not nearly so many are required. The chief value of Vicomtesse Hericart de Thury is its greater reliability for autumnal fruiting when planted out — at least this is my experience of it. By some the fruits of this variety are preferred. Where this is the case by all means grow it and as well as possible. For later uses after the stock of Royal Sovereign is spent, three excellent kinds may be found in British Queen, Latest of All, and Gunton Park. Strawberries sow fruiting and other stock. — Amongst these there will not be much to be done now, save to keep down the weeds where any appear and to water late varieties if they stand in need of it. Late kinds, as Latest of All and Waterloo, require a liberal supply of water for them to perfectly develop their crops. In spite of liming, slugs are still giving some trouble, so I ha^e placed some more litter around the plants where the fruit was not too far advanced. Placed around each plant in the form of a support to the spikes which are borne down by their weight close upon the first mulching, this will help to keep the fruit cleaner and fresher. Whilst attending to the layering for forcing do not overlook the fact that layers from pots make the best plants also for new plantations in the open. It may take a little longer time even when work is pressing in other direc- tions, but it is worth the effort to accomplish it, and in any case it should be done as soon as the crop is cleared off. Of course, where room can be given up to growing a stock of plants on purpose for layering, the flower trusses being cut off, it is the best plan to adopt, and I doubt not it might well be an extended practice, as more vigorous and rather earlier runners can thus be had. Where the old plants from forcing have been put out the watering must be regularly attended to until it is seen that they are well established, and even occasionally afterwards. Alpine Strawberries raised this year from seed are now establishing themselves, after having been pricked out into Celery boxes, being for a few days kept close in cold frames. In another week these will be well exposed to keep them as sturdy as possible. Those a year older are now being gone over, all the flower trusses being removed to give them more strength for autumn cropping. These will then come into fruit towards the end of August or a little earlier perhaps. A mulching of leaf -soil, road scrapings, and old Mushroom-bed manure, into which the roots will soon find their way, is also being given. The mulching with clean litter will then follow as speedily as possible, the beds thus being completed for the time. Plants of the Alpine Strawberry that are two years old or a little more from seed are now bearing heavy crops and will continue to do so until the end of August. This year again these were ripe with Royal Sovereign. Do not attempt to raise a stock of the Alpine Strawberries from runners taken from old beds ; it is utter folly to do it. This is the chief reason why the Alpine Strawberry has never been more popular than it has. Never go beyond taking runners from the seedling plants direct. It is worthy of note, however, that strong runners, if now taken oft' with roots and potted up into 4J-inch pots, being afterwards plunged in the open, will when well established give a late crop of fruit this season from the middle of October onwards for a few weeks. Those who are growing the new French Strawberry St. Joseph will do well to secure the runners early and prove what this variety is capable of accomplishing. I have taken all the runners and intend to give it a thorough trial for late forcing. By its afipearance it will only need 4i-inch pots : it may, however, gain in vigour when rapid propagation is not resorted to for the necessary increase of stock. Autumn Raspeekries, &c. — Give attention to these as may be needed. With me water has to be applied liberally, and mulching will soon have to be done. This, if done too early, might cause the growth to come away too strongly, and con- sequently not terminate in every case in flowers and afterwards fruit. The growths had better be thinned out where at all thick, sufficiently at any rate to admit light and air. This season I am trying what can be done to secure an autumn crop of Raspberries by cutting down a row each of Superlative and Hornet. At any rate, it is worth the trial if only a partial crop from these prolific kinds can be thus obtained from esta- blished plants. Other Raspberries newly planted should be well attended to for water and be mulched as well. Old plantations should be cleared of all old growths as soon as the present crop is all gathered, and the young canes be thinned out also. The Blackberries, represented by the culti- vated forms, as the cut-leaved Bramble and the American kinds, are useful additions and worth attention when room can be given up to them. The former, in fact, is both ornamental and use- ful, being an acquisition to the wild garden or for the covering of rustic work, the forming of screens, &c. , by reason of its very pretty foliage, with the knowledge that a crop of fruit will almost assuredly follow. Wilson Junior is an earlier variety than the cut-leaved, being almost over when the latter is ripe. A succession is thus secured. So far the Wineberry (Rubus phit-nicu- lasius) with me gives indications of fruiting very well, but like others of its class it evidently needs moisture. Of its utility more anon, but merely for ornament it is worth growing. Insect life. — The trouble occasioned by aphides this season appears to be almost an universal complaint amongst gardeners. As far as I am concerned, I have had occasion to congratulate myself that strong doses were given in the winter to almost everything, and again some six weeks or two months back as occasion seemed to require it. Thus, for instance, the Cherries that were dressed with a strong solution of quassia extract about two months back have not been troubled much with the black fly, and these are dealt with as they appear. Upon Peaches and Nectarines the green fly has now been conquered. It was late this season before daily syringings could be safely given. The paint-brush follows up the American blight still with extra strong doses, as no half measures will suffice. Hortu-S. Orchard and Fruit Garden. APPLE CROP IN 1898. The peculiar weather experienced in this district during the month of May considerably marre(J the earlier favourable prospects of a fruitful year, for we had not only to contend with dull days and frequent showers, but on several occasions severe frost in addition. Many of the trees now present a pitiable condition, the leaves being covered with mildew and the trusses of flowers withered up as though they had been scalded. There is, how- ever, some satisfaction in looking over the trees to find that the prospects are not quite so bad as at first sight appears, though a good many varie- ties are a total failure. With me the kind that seems to have suSered most is Cox's Orange Pippin, the most of the leaves, owing to the mildew, are now falling off. This is not only the case with old standards and bush trees that are well esta- blished, but also with young ones that should be full of vigour. Many others of the more tender varieties have suffered in like manner, though not to such a serious extent. The orchard here con- tains about 100 different kinds of Apples, anti after going carefully over them I find there are many that have no fruit at all, while others have a fair sprinkling, and some have heavy crops. The first to bloom with me was the Irish Peach. The flowers having opened during favourable weather there is a good set, the trees being heavily laden with fruit. Worcester Pearmain is also good, likewise King of the Pippins, Rose- mary Russet, Yellow Ingestrie, Golden Nonpareil, Adams' Pearmain, Mannington's Pearmain, Egre- mont Russet, Brownlee's Russet, and some others. Turning to the best of the cooking varieties, I find Lane's Prince Albert well to the fore, while Mere de Menage, Keswick Codlin, Warner's King, Er^klinville, Loddington, Seator* House, Domino, Frogmore Prolific, and some others are first-class. Many of the popular varieties have scarcely a fruit on them. lb was not altogether the frost that played such havoc with the blossom, for the dull, damp weather was accountable for many of the flowers failing to set, the pollen seldom being dry, as there were only eleven fine days between the '2t)th of April and the 0th of June, though on one occasion the mercury fell to 2.5°. It would seem that some varieties are much more tender than others, as the various kinds growing side by side testify. Bramley's Seedling, for example, growing by the side of Ecklinville has scarcely a, fruit on it, while there is not, as far as I can see, a single fruit of Gascoigne's Scarlet, Grenadier, Peasgood's Nonsuch, Baumann's Red Beinette, and many others so often seen on the exhibition table. Wellington is no doubt one of our best cooking apples, but with me the crop is very short this season, while the two most prolific are Irish Peach and King of the Pippins. For supplying the market, doubtless a few varieties that do well in the different localities are best, Init for private establishments a collection of the most useful kinds is to be preferred, as there are far more chances of keeping up a continuous supply in this way than by putting all the eggs into one basket, as it were. In some seasons Kerry Pippin is one of the most prolific bearers, but this year with me the crop is short. There is also an advantage in |)lanting trees irregularly, that is, instead of planting each variety by itself, mix them up as it were, then the possibility is that some trees will flower a little later than others, and thus bear a crop where those that bloomed earlier failed. There is also much to be said in favour of plant- ing trees for shelter, both at the blooming period July 9, 1898;] THE GAEDEK 25 and when the fruit is ripening. — H. C. P., Btixlal Park, Siinsi j: The remarks of several corrospondentH from different parts of the country {widely apart) on the Apple crop — in some cases very favour- able, in others quite the reverse — lead to the inference that the crop is likely to be partial botli as to locality and in n the other hand, a more luxuriant growth and finer flowers are obtained where the plants are grown away 26 THE GAEDEK [July 9, 1898. from other things, and where their roots have their own domain, and the upper growth full exposure to sunlight and air. This season we have been very much troubled with aphides, and it has been a difficult matter to keep them down. A solution of tobacco and soft soap syringed over the plants in the evening is the best remedy. LoNiCERA CaprifoIjItjm. — This(sometimes called the perfoliate Woodbine) is one of our English Honeysuckles, and is closely aUied to the common one, L. Periclymenum. It is, however, very readily distinguished from that species by the smooth, more glaucous leaves and by the terminal pairs on the flowering shoots being united all round the stem so as to look like a single leaf. The flowers are borne in the axils of these con- nate leaves. Each flower is \-h inches long, pale yellow, suffused with pink. The berries are oval and scarlet or orange-coloured. Some authorities have had doubts as to whether this is a real native of Britain, or whether it is simply naturalised, but if it is truly indigenous, Cambridge and Essex are the only counties in which it is so. It flowers two or three weeks in advance of the common Honeysuckle, and climbs as much as 15 feet or 20 feet high. It is a beautiful shrub, although its flowers, perhaps, are scarcely so fragrant as those of the common Honeysuckle. L. ETRUSCA (oKiANTEA). — Under the name of Lonicera gigantea a valuable Honeysuckle has recently come prominently into notice. The plant so named is a form, perhaps finer and hardier, of the old L. etrusca. It is made synony- mous with that species by Mr. Nicholson. Its strong vigorous shoots bear large oblong leaves, noteworthy because of their covering of dense hairs. The stems are reddish purple, and bear at and near the tips large showy, dense clusters of flowers. These flowers are at first yellowish white, but become a deeper and richer yellow as they get older ; they have a sweet, pleasant per- fume. To those who take an interest in the climbing Honeysuckles this vigorous and beauti- ful species may well be recommended. It is a native of Southern Europe. L. iMi'LEXA. — Although this species was intro- duced to Britain as long ago as 1772, and is quite hardy near London, it is not a well-known Honey- suckle even yet. It is a native of South Europe and the Balearic Islands. Unlike the preceding species (L. etrusca), its stems and leaves are quite devoid of woolly covering. The latter are 1 inch to Ij inches long, very glaucous beneath, without stalks, the lower part of the blades of each pair often overlapping. The stems are of a purplish hue, and bear the flowers at the end of the shoots and from the axils of the uppermost leaves. The flowers are purple outside and white within on first opening, afterwards changing to yellow. It is said to grow as much as 15 feet in height, but I have not seen it more than about 8 feet. It is a pretty plant, distinct because of its small leaves and closer growth. L. Perii'Lvmendm. — There is no plant more characteristic of our hedgerows and thickets, or adds more to their beauty and charm, than the common Honeysuckle or Woodbine. It flowers from June to August and often later, and during that time is one of the most beautiful as well as one of the most exquisitely fragrant of hardy shrubs. It is in the cool and dewy mornings and evenings that its fragrance is richest. This plant and L. Gaprifolium are very similar, but its leaves are often downy and are not so glaucous, nor do the terminal ones become united (connate) as they do in L. Gaprifolium. The flowers are borne in terminal clusters and are deep red outside, yel- lowish within. They are followed by crimson berries. It is a variable plant, and the following are the more noteworthy forms : — L. P. VAR. BEi.ciCA. — This has smooth, pur- plish stems, and is of sturdier habit than the type. It is often called the Dutch Honeysuckle. L. P. VAR. (jCERCiKOLiA (the Oak-leavcd Honey- suckle) has leaves shaped like those of an Oak. It is a native of Britain. L. P. VAR. SEROTiNA. — This flowers later than the others, and its blossoms appear more simul- taneously, thus producing a finer show. L. JAFONicA. — This species may be taken as the type of a group of Honeysuckles that have come to us from China and Japan and known in gar- dens under such names as Halleana, confusa, chinensis, &c. Slight differences might be found, but they are all near enough to come under the one species. They are evergreen and grow very luxuriantly in good soil, coming into flower to- wards the end of .June or the beginning of July and continuing for a couple of months. The blossoms are borne in pairs on short axillary branches, and are white at first, changing to yel- low with age. They have a most charming frag- rance, suggesting that of the common Honey- suckle with that of the Cowslip mingled. The broadly ovate leaves are pointed, bright green, and vary from 1 inch to .3 inches in length. In some of the forms there is a tendency towards the leaves becoming pinnatifid or sinuately lobed. An arch of Honeysuckle. The most distinct of the varieties is the one named L. J. VAR. FLEXDOSA. — This has dark red stems and dark green leaves, the under surface of which, more particularly on the veins, is also red. The flowers are pale red outside, white within. L. J. VAR. Halleana has flowers like those of the ordinary japonica in being white and after- wards changing to yellow, but it flowers during a longer period. All these varieties can be grown up single stakes, or on three stakes made to form a pyramid ; they then form dense evergreen masses and are useful as bushes, for they need not be allowed to grow more than 5 feet or so high unless desired. L. J. VAR. AnREo-BETicuLATA is a variegated form of this Honeysuckle— known also as L. brachypoda reticulata — and is one of the hand- somest golden variegated plants of its kind we have. The leaves are smaller than in L. japonica, being about 1 inch long, broadly ovate, with the mid-rib and veins picked out in bright golden yellow. It loses most of its beauty in winter, bub during the summer time is very bright. I find it very useful as a covering for old tree roots half buried in the ground. The American Species. L. FLAVA. — The first mention of this species in a botanical work was in 1802, and shortly after this date it was sent to England by John Eraser, a well-known collector of American plants in the early years of the century. He discovered it on the summit of Paris Mountain, in South Carolina, and curiously enough it was never again collected wild till within the present decade, when it wa& again discovered on the same site, and subse- c[uently in one or two more isolated localities. The few plants in cultivation are all descendants- of Eraser's plants, and it is, either in a wild or cultivated state, one of the very rarest of North American shrubs. Its climbing stems are set with thin, slightly glaucous leaves, the upper pairs of which are, as in L. Gaprifolium, connate. The flowers appear in short, terminal clusters, and are bright yellow changing to orange, and the slender tubu- lar part of the corolla is 1 inch to li inches long. This Honeysuckle has been much confounded with L. SuUi- vanti, but it is a more beau- tiful plant. L. lU.AUCA. — This is a very handsome species and one of the very hardiest of the American Honeysuckles. In a wild state it penetrates far to the north of Eastern America, and is said to reach even the shores of Hudson's- Bay, extending thence right- through Canada, New Eng- land, &c., as far to the south as the mountains of Carolina. Its stems rarely grow more than 6 feet to 7 feet high, and its leaves are a pale glaucous green. On the flowering shoots the leave& are without stalks and the uppermost ones are united as- in our native L. Gaprifolium. The flowers are of a greenish yellow tinged with purple„ and are borne in close whorls at the ends of the shoots- during June and July. L. iiiRSUTA. — This is another of the climbing Honeysuckles of the Eastern- United States. It is a tall, twining plant, differing from flava, glauca, and Sullivantb in the absence of a glaucous- bloom on the leaves ; they are green and covered with a soft down. The flowers are orange-yellow, and the corolla, the tube of which is half an inch long, is covered on the outside with a viscid pubescence, whilst the throat is hairy. It is a. hardy plant, generally found wild on rocky banks- in Canada and New England southwards to Michigan and Pennsylvania. Although it has hitherto been neglected in this country, it is one of the handsomest of the American Honey- suckles. L. SEMPER virens (Trumpet Honeysuckle). — Of all the Honeysuckles this has the brightest- coloured flowers, and when seen at its best is, perhaps, the most beautiful. But, on the other hand, the flowers have no fragrance, and the plants itself can only be satisfactorily grown out of doors against a wall or in specially mild districts. Its leaves are naturally evergreen, obovate, bright green above, blue-white beneath, the lower ones stalked, but the upper pairs united round the- stem. The flowers are borne at the tips in a- series of superposed whorls, the long trumpet- Jdlt 9, 1898.] THE GAP.PEX. 27 shaped corolla being of a brilliant scarlet, tingeJ with rose outside and with yellow in the throat. As a climber for the cool greenhouse this Honey- suckle proves very valuable, flowering continu- ously over a long season. A good jilant is now in bloom in the greenhouse (No. 4) at Kow. The Trumpet Honeysuckle is a native of tho South- East United States. L. Sii.r.iv.vNTi. — There has been a good deal of confusion between this species and L. flava, but it is not so distinctly a climber and its stems more bushy and dwarfer. Its leaves are very glaucous, thick in texture, 2 inches to 4 inches long, and ovate or oblong, the upper pairs joined together. The flowers are borne in whorls near the tips of the shoots and are pale yellow ; the tubular part of the corolla is scarcely half an inch long, and there is a prominent chiti towards the base, which affords a means of dis- tinguishing this species from its close allies. The plant is conspicuous by its covering of white glaucous bloom, but on the whole it is less beautiful than flava. It is widely distributed in the Eastern United States, and was first brought into notice by the Mr. W. S. Sullivant after whom it is named. The fruit is handsome, the berries being bright red and borne in large clusters. W. J. B. THE EFFECT OF COLOUR. It would be difficult to imagine a garden with- out colour, and it is when flowers fail, tints fade, and leaves rustle mournfully to the ground that the garden becomes a cheerless place. Even then, however, Nature provides for herself and us in the production of evergreens in varying shades, that keep up a ray of brightness the whole year round and check to some extent the air of depression tliat will liave way. In the early summer, however, there is a different tale to tell. The garden is aglow with colour, so bright and profuse, and, where judiciously distributed, so harmoniously blended, that to match tlie efl'ects of Dame Nature the brush ol the most talented artist might be wielded in vain. Leafy June might also be called the month of bloom, for it is now that flowering trees and shrubs are full of beauty, and, no matter where you look, some bright mass of colour meets the eye. From the sentimental, thoughts turn to the practical, and the present beauty of flowering trees and shrubs suggests many things to the thoughtful mind. In the flrst place there is the usefulness of such trees for garden adorn- ment. To name them there is no necessity to go into minute details, but confine ourselves to the Lilacs, Hawthorns, Laburnums, Cytisus, Rhododendrons, Guelder Roses, Syringas, and other well-known flowers. Tliese may be divided again into species and varieties to suit individual tastes, but, .speaking generally, there is divei'sity enough to make any garden gay in the early summer months. One standing want generally noticed in what is known as the shrubbery portion of gardens is that of colour. Masses of sombre foliage become sadly mo- notonous to the eye that naturally demands variety, and if it is only a solitary touch of something bright it is a relief. The efiect in many established gardens has been made or marred by the planter years ago, and the charms of many a landscape are obliterated by the want of .something bright and cheerful to break the monotony of the surroundings. Only recently when visiting a garden of large dimensions 1 noticed this. There were fine banks of Bay Laurels, specimens of Portugal Laurel, giant trees of Hemlock Spruce, Cedar •of Lebanon, Wellingtonia, Arbor-vibe, and •other conifers . They were all fine specimens, ♦lualified to raise the enthusiasm of any tree lover, but to the lover of colour there was something wanting. There was no escape from the sameness of the varying shades of green, nothing to break the contrast of the pale green Laurels and the sombre Pines. I .say nothing, but hero T conniiit myself, for tiiero was one solitary Laburnum rising from a groundwork of Laurels, and apparently uncon- scious of its con.spicuousne.ss. How it came there I know not, but from all appearances it came of its own free will, and from a tiny .self- raised seedling grew into a tree. It was just jjrominent enough to give one an idea of how tho landscape might have been improved by tho presence of other flowering trees. There are always lessons to be learnt and trees and .shrubs to be ])lanted, and the moral is, not to pay too much attention to foliage, but to remem- ber tlie flower. The picturesque in landscape is that in which light and shade with harmony in colour lend themselves in the formation of a happy blend, without which there is a dulness on the one hand or a vulgar multiplicity of colours on the other. My mind's eye pictures a garden, perliaps well known to many readers of these columns, namely, that of Alton Towers, in Staftbrdshire. It is beautiful at all times, but more particu- larly so in early .June when the many flowering trees and shrubs are at their best. The garden is situated in a natural valley, and the banks on either side are clothed with Rhododendrons interspersed with serpentine walks, patches of green turf, and specimen trees. Most of the Rhododendrons are the common R. ponticum, but here and there are brighter coloured hy- brids recently planted. Down the centre is a cascade, where water tumbles from rock to rock, forms itself into a succession of pools, and finally loses itself in the valley below. Both sides of the waterfall are clothed with massive Rhododendrons, and over the cascade droop golden Laburnums and crimson Thorns. White and purple Lilacs are dotted here and there, and Guelder Roses and Magnolia con- spicua show themselves to advantage against the dark green of the Hemlock Spruce. Alto- gether the eft'ect is charming, and never more so than in the evening when viewed fx-om a high position where the whole panorama lies before you, Tlie common Rhododendron grows freely in the light soil resting on .sandstone, and groups of this shrub have developed themselves into dense thickets which clothe the sides of the valley with a profusion of flower, which is shown to the fullest advantage in the evening sunlight. Here and there are drooping masses of yellow Laburnum flowers and white and crimson Thorns, purple and white Lilacs, and many other flowering trees and shrubs, each of which helps in making contrasts that collectively form a happy blend. The varying shades of foliage are no less pleasing. Here is a fine specimen of Copper Beech, there a tree of the cut-leaved variety with pale green foliage against a background of dark Hemlock Spruce. The early growth of the Pines is almost silvery in the fading sunshine, and at ditt'erent points recently planted trees of Japanese Maple make themselves conspicuous. Added to all this there is a stillness unbroken except for the song of feathered life and the music of rippling water. The scene is beautiful without being grand and gives to one an impression of rest and peace such as a garden, to be a garden in the true sense, ought to impart. I give this imperfect sketch to illustrate the advantage gained by the presence of flowers in the shrubbery portion of gardens. There is a medium, of course, and one frequently sees instances, particularly in tlie surroundings of suburban dwellings, where foliage would be a relief to tone down tho gaudy glare of unhar- monising colour. The ideal in landscape gar- dening is to dispense as much as jiossiblo with the artificial, and in copying Nature to do it thorouglily, for even in the wildne.ss of a hedge- row or woodland it is not all happy flowers, in the ab.sence of which there would 'be something wanting. G. H. H. IS not all leafage, but a mixture of colour supplied by simple COTON EASTER PANNOSA (FRANCH.). This new species of Cotoneaster was introduced by the Museum of Natural History at Paris about the beginning of 188S. Professor Max Cornu received some seeds of it from the Abbg Delavay, a missionary in Yunnan. The seeds were labelled " Hu-Chan-meu fruit rouge," the first name being that of the locality in which the seeds were gathered. Sown on May 28, IS88, they produced a sutticient number of specimens to permit of their being sent out in 1890. The plant appears in the Museum's catalogue of living plants offered for exchange to other botanic gar- dens in 1890 and 1892 under the name of Cotone- aster sp. (Yunnan). The plant flowered and bore fruit for the first time in the gardens of the Museum in 1897, both flowers and fruit showing themselves in profusion, which permitted of its being placed for distribution purposes in the " Index Seminum " for the end of 1897. It was presented by Professor Corn u as a new plant to the National Society of Horticulture of France in the month of October, 1897. Such in a few words is the history of its introduction. C. pannosa is easily distinguished from other species. From a decorative point of view it is to be recommended for its persistent foliage, the under- side of the leaf, of a beautiful silvery white, being in marked contrast with the deep and lus- trous green of the upper surface side, and for its abundant flowers, but especially its brilliantly coloured fruit. It is, we think, a real acquisition and a fine addition to the series of shrubs which during the cheerless season of winter help to en- liven our gardens with their fruit, which for bril- liancy is ecjual to that of the richest blooms. We believe C. pannosa to be hardy in the I'aris cli- mate. The trials to which it has been submitted at the Museum were satisfactory on this point. It must be added, however, that specimens placed outdoors have not so far withstood the severe winters. The altitude of 9000 feet or so, given by the Abb^ Delavay to be that at which the plant grows spontaneously, oU'ers no certain criterion in this respect. Alpine plants, which in their natural habitats easily withstand consider- able falls of temperature, protected as they are during the winter by a thick blanket of snow, in the plains re(iuire shelter, where, nevertheless, the rigours of the inclement seasons are much less severe, but where the snow is often wanting and alternations of frost and thaw are frequent. A regards soil, C. pannosa appears to be very eas}' to please. It is easily increased by seed and also by cuttings during the summer. — L. Henry, in Le fardiii . Manure cards on show exhibits. — My note on this subject, ;■( the action of the Royal Horticultural Society, which appeared on page •IW, brought me an interesting communication from a well-known Chrysanthemum grower, in which he mentioned that at one of the great shows of the N. C. S. he found on the second morning of the show that two large cards relating to a cer- tain expensive and well-puti'ed manure had been placed on his exhibits, intimating that these flowers had been grown with the manure in ques- tion. The exhibitor removed one card, and on the other wrote prominently the word "not" over " grown," and placed it in a prominent position. The result might be readily anticipated, for no sooner was the exhibitor's back turned than the obnoxious card was removed. I marvel that 28 THE GARDEN. [JtJLT 9, 1898. officials and committees of shows permit this sort of thing;. The exhibitor in question states that he had never used this manure in his life. — A. D. Stove and Greenhouse. mCHARDIA ELLIOTTIANA ROSSI. Within the last decade we have had two or three very distinct forms of Richardia (Calla), remarkable for their rich golden - coloured spathes, introduced into cultivation, and from their distinct character and extremely showy blossoms they quickly became popular. The first of this class was Richardia Elliottiana, which attracted a deal of attention when it was first exhibited in bloom. It proved to be a good seed-producer, the result being that it was soon to be obtained at a moderate price. The variety Rossi, which has been brought promi- nently forward during the present year, was first flowered by Mr. Donald Ross, of Cape- town, who stated that the plants came from a difi'erent locality to that in which R. EUottiana and R. Pentlandi were discovered, and that they were in every respect an improvement upon them. A great number of dormant tubers of this variety were disposed of in the London sale roonrs in the early part of the present year, but up to now none of mine have flowered. The appearance of the foliage sug- gests that it is a rather small-growing variety of R. Elliottiana, and produces ofl'sets more freely than that does — indeed, that it is inclined to form quite a tuft, but these features may dis- appear with cultivation, the conditions under which it is grown being in every way so dif- ferent. An illustration of it, which was to be seen when it was ottered for sale, suggested that the flower-stems were shorter than those of the typical R. Elliottiana, whose flowers stand well above the foliage, while those of Rossi were scarcely higher than the leaves. Though anticipating with much interest the flowering of tliis particular variety, I am afraid that mine will not bloom during the present season. ( )wing to the interest centred around these golden-flowered Richardias, many districts have been scoured in the search for them, and large numbers of imported tubers have made their appearance in this country. I have grown a considerable number of them, but never obtained in this way the true R. Elliottiana as flowered at first by Captain Elliott, after whom it was named. The prominent characteristics of this form are the rounded blade of the leaf and the manner in which the lower part of the stem is mottled with brown in the way of an Alocasia. The foliage of Rossi is of the same character, but at present smaller than that of the typical R. Elliottiana. The majority of the imported tubers consists of R. Pentlandi, or of some forms closely approaching it. In R. Pentlandi the leaves are more pointed and with less substance than in R. Elliottiana, while they are of a uni- form deep green. The flowers, too, though of a rich golden yellow, are marked at the base in the interior with deep blackish purple, which is wanting, or almost so, in R. Elliottiana. This purplish tinge, however, varies to a certain extent in dift'erent individuals. In some im- portations there is a fair sprinkling of a form which is an exact counterpart of R. Pentlandi, except that the leaves are marked with trans- lucent whitish spots, as in R. Elliottiana. This is occasionally met with as R. Pentlandi macu- lata. I recently had a plant of this brought under my notice in which the spathe was of a sulphur tint instead of the deep golden hue common to this form. In the cultivation of these Richardias it should be borne in mind that they are natives of the region considerably to the north of the Cape, and consequently require a higher temperature than the common R. africana to grow them successfully. Thus, though one often hears of them spoken of as Arum Lilies with yellow flowers, the points of difl'erence are most marked, for these golden forms require the temperature of an inter- mediate house (at least during the spring of the year) to grow them successfully, while they formed a flattened, roundish tuber and pass the winter in a totally dormant state. They need to be shaken entirely clear of the old soil and started afresh in new compost about February. H. P. Crinum Moorei variegatum. — Most of the Crinums are remarkable for their showy, if some- what short-lived, blossoms, but in this form the foliage is deoidedlj' handsome, being marked in a longitudinal manner with stripes of creamy Richardia Elliottiana Rossi. Engraved for The Gar- den from a photograph sent lit/ M. Louis Van Houtte, Ghent, Belgium. yellow and different shades of yellowish green, which vary a good deal in width. In nearly all the leaves the coloured portion preponderates over the normal green tint. The flowers of the variegated variety are as in the type, but the foliage loses its freshness before the blossoms expand. This variegated form of Crinum Moorei is at present not much known, but as this species out about ten years before its merits were recosr nised.-H. P. Malmaison Carnations. — Each year sees many additions to the list of good Malmaison Carnations, and most of the newer ones do nob appear as yet to have contracted the disease which is almost always to be seen in some degree in the older forms. R. H. Measures is a very fine variety with scarlet-cerise flowers shaded white^ and practically a non-burster, with a good con- stitution. Princess May is another finely -formed flower of a deep rosy red colour. Mme. Adelina Patti bears a very strong likeness to the old blush variety, but the flowers are larger and fuller than we are accustomed to see in this old favourite. Two fine scarlets are Lord Rose- bery and Prime Minister, in both of which the form is distinctly good. — .J. C. T. Streptocarpus Wendlandi.— This Strepto- carpus when grown singly in pots is very un- gainly-looking and lop-sided, owing to the enor- mous development of the single leaf. Not liking its appearance in this form, I made up this year two huge specimens in deep pans, and the result is excellent. The plants have forty or fifty spikes now showing and the forwardest of these in full flower, while the specimens are as shapely as anyone could wish. The method adopted in making up the pans was to put an outer ring of plants with the leaves pointing out- wards and filling up inside in the same way> so that the leaves overlapped in an outward direction all through. The soil used contains a fair quantity of decayed cow manure, as I find that all the Streptocarpi like this and continue to flower longer than they would without manure. I expect tliese plants to flower continuously from this time till the end of September, and to produce a great number of flowers during the season. The tall scapes of S. Wendlandi are very useful and lasting in a cut state. Its foliage, as in the case of that of the hybrid forms, must be protected from direct sunlight, as it is very susceptible to scalding. — .1. C. T. Fuchsia General Roberts. — The list of garden varieties of the Fuchsia is now almost endless, and among those in cultivation are many forms, some being particularly useful for one purpose and some for another. Of late, attention has been directed to the great ^ alue of the Fuchsia for clothing the roofs of greenhouses or similar uses, and for this the variety above mentioned. General Roberts is one of the very best. The style of growth is somewhat lax, and this, combined with the long peduncles and great profusion of large, showy blossoms, is greatly in its favour. The flowers of this variety are dark, and where a light-coloured comparison is desired, the old market variety Mrs. Marshall is good. A bright red flower with the sepals and petals of almost the same colour is Monarch, whose indi- vidual blossoms are very large and freely borne, while the habit of the plant also fits it for cloth- ing roofs. Of varieties with white corollas, a very old kind, Alexandra, is one of the best, bub it is not easy to obtain. Failing this, Flocon de Neige is very eood. To these four may, if re- produces offsets freely it will doubtless in time be quired, be added F. pendula'flora, one of the more generally met with. — H. P. Double Pelargonium Charbon Ardent. — We have not many double-flowered Pelargoniums of an orange-scarlet shade, and some of the limited number are rather apt to run up tall, which cannot, however, be said of this variety. original species, which has large clusters of bright showy blossoms, and F. gracilis. — H. P. Zonal Pelargoniums with spotted flowers. — Some three years ago M. Lemoine, of Nancy, sent out among other Pelargoniums a variety (Alliance) which was quite a break away from any for it is, as far as my experience extends, one of ' existing forms. It is very free-flowering and the the very best of that tint. Though the flowers of Charbon Ardent are orange-scarlet in colour, they are of a peculiar and striking shade. It is of good dwarf habit and very free flowering, so that it is equally valuable as a pot plant or for the production of cut blooms. Its origin I cannot give, and the name rarely occurs in any cata- logues. Perhaps it is a comparatively old kind rescued from oblivion, as happened in the case of the now popular F. P. Raspail, which was sent blush-coloured flowers of good shape, but the great feature is that the three lower petals are thickly, antl the two upper ones more sparingly, freckled with small, clearly-defined dots of pur- plish crimson. This dotting is far more profuse towards the centre of the flower than at the out- side. A variety with flowers so marked attracted, of course, a good deal of attention, and another peculiarity is that it is more or less proliferous, for when the flowers on a large truss fade, small July 9, 1898.] THE CxARDEN. 29 clusters are often pushed out thorefrom, those in turn bearing a few blossoms. A break once ob- tained, other varieties followed in the same way, and one distributed last year (Orcstos) has the dot- ting more pronounced than in the older kind. The ground colour of this is a kind of lilac-pink and the dots pur]>le. Other varieties of this class distributed by continental raisers during the pre- sent year that have up to now llowercd with me are Daumier, very thickly freckled with red on a lilac-pink ground ; Ciel Etoile, pale whitish lilac, dotted with carmine ; and Pleiades, rosy lilac, with carmine dots. There is at least one double- flowered form in the same way, viz , Vortte Celeste, in which both the clusters and individual flowers are large, the latter being of a blush tint plentifully sprinkled with bright crimson. It is quite a break away from the ordinary double- flowered forms, and so are some of the attractive coloured varieties of the Mme. .Tales Chretien class, of which there are now several with double blossoms. — H. P. Societies and Exhibitions, NATIONAL VIOLA SOCIETY. July 2. TUE display made by the supp:)rters of this society at the Crystal Palace on the above date was disappointing. The competition was not so keen as the executive desired, but the heavy rain- fall of the early morning no doubt to a large ex- tent was responsible for this. It was a very happy arrangement to fix the date and place for the show, in con j unction with those of the National Rose Society's display. Scotland, the west of England and the south were represented at the exhibition, and it was interesting to compare the products of one with the other. The neat, though formal arrangement of the Tufted Pansies in sprays, with their own foliage, was effective, and this year the executive offered prizes for blooms arranged without wire in specimen glasses. This latter arrangement was appreciated by some, who find making a spray a long and tiresome occu- pation, while in a comparatively short time quite a large number of glasses may be filled with these interesting and pretty blossoms. Tufced Pansies made by far the largest display, and conspicuous among them were the increasingly popular ray- less types of the flower. Miniature Tufted Pansies were represented by one board of blossoms only, and as these are so very pretty and interesting, it is a pity more were not forthcoming. The flowers kept very well during the day, notwithstanding the fact that the heat was very trying during the afternoon. " In the open classes the principal competition was for forty-eight sprays of Tufted Pansies, dis- tinct, nine blooms in each spray. The gold medal for this display was well won by Mr. William Sydenham, Tamworth, Staffordshire, for a nice, bright and representative lot of blossoms. Among the best of his sprays were Kitty Hay, one of the best of the deep yellow rayless selfs ; William Tell, a creamy white flower with a rich yellow eye and rayless ; Lemon Queen, Masterpiece, a pure white self ; Queenie, a medium-sized flower rather like Border Witch ; Commander, a large rich purple self : Councillor W. Waters, a bright b'.uish purple self ; .John Quarton, a deep mauve and very effective : Cottage Maid, deep bluish purple and light lavender markings ; Lizzie Paul, rich yellow rayed self ; Mary Scott, one of the loveliest of blue - tinted white rayless selfs ; Ophelia, a new colour of deep heliotrope blue, large and rayless ; Florizel, a pretty blush-lilac rayless self ; Magnificent, a good rayed blue self ; Stephen, a large rich yellow rayed self ; and Pem- broke, the best of the rayless yellow selfs, besides many other choice sorts. Second prize was well merited by Messrs. Isaac House and Son, Bristol, for a wonderfully fresh display, and including a goodly number of both old and new sorts. Con pretty shaded and edged bluo on a white ground ; Craigi, lower petals purplish crimson, upper petals shaded lavender ; Christiana, cream self, with largo yellow eye; Duchess of Albany, a bluish rose ; A. J. Kowberry, rich rayless yellow self ; Magie, a beautiful rich rosy crimson ; and Stob- hill Gem, lower petal rich deep violet, upper petals bluish white. Messrs. I. House and Son were also placed first for forty-eight sprays of fancy Pansies, distinct, six blooms in each spray, thereby securing the gold medal. These made a bold display, especially so when contrasted with the refined and delicate colouring as reprosentelooms, distinct, Mr. (i. Monies, Hitchin, was first. Prince Arthur, A. K. Williams, Rubens, and Maraan Cochet being among his best. For nine blooms, distinct, Mr. ,1. C. Trueman came first, his best blooms being La France and Caro- line Testout. For six distinct varieties, Mr. ,T. A. Hammond, Burgess Hill, was awarded first prize, having La France, Margaret Dickson, &c. For twelve distinct varieties, Mr. G. Monies obtained first prize, having Fisher Holmes, Horace Vernet, Rubens, Hon. E. GifTord, &c., the second prize going to Mr. L. Parry, Dorchester. For nine distinct Roses, including Teas and Noisettes, the Rev. J. H. Pemberton obtained the first place! showing in good form such as Comtesse de Na- daiUac, Mrs. Grant, Caroline Testout, &c. In this case seven trusses of each \ariety were needed and boxes disallowed, the exhibits being tet up in vases or similar receptacles. The next three classes were devoted to amateurs who had never taken a prize at any National Rose show, the first place being taken by Mr. J. Carter, Mill House, Halstead, who showed Niphetos, Mrs. Laing, and Caroline Testout, Mr. J. Hinton, Bath- caston, and Mr. G. Moor, Arundel, taking first places respectively in the other classes referred to. ^or eighteen blooms distinct (Tea and Noisette), li, "'""""ay. Beaulieu, Bath, had a grand lot of Howers : not only in size and form, but for freshness and finish these were superb. Particu- larly good were Cleopatra, Bride, Bridesmaid, Maman Cochet, Hon. Edith (;itford, Comtesse de ISadaillac, .Souv. d'Elise Vardon, &c. For twelve distinct, Tea and Noisette, Mr. A. Hill-Gray again took the leading place, showing well Ernest Metz, Maman Cochet, Souv. de .S. A. Prince, Alba rosea, &c. In the class for eight varieties Mr. A. Hill-Gray, Bath, again displayed excellent form, showing, as in the preceding classes, really a grand lot of (lowers. For twelve distinct blooms, iMr. Conway .lones, Hucclecote, (iloucester, was hrst, having Bride, Medea, Ernest Metz, &c., Mr K. I . Hobbs coming second. In the amateurs' section for garden or decorative Roses Mr. A Tate Leatherhead, took the first place for twelve bunches, showing Perle d'Or, .Safrano, Marquis of .Salisbury, Hebe's Lip, (iustave Rems, very fine, and W. A. Richardson. For nini similar bunches Mr. A. F. Perkins took the leading place having a tine lot of Mme. C. ( iuinoisseau, a rich and showy yellow, very free. Carmine Pillar and Mme. 1 . 1 )ucher were also good. The second prize went to Miss Dorothy Nesfield, who had good .lanets Pride, (iu.stave Regis, Rugosa alba, &c. In the class for twehe vases of Penzance Sweet Briers, not less than six varieties, Mr. 0 (i Orpen Colchester, was first with such as Lord and Lady lenzance, Lucy Ashton, and Brenda, a rather showy pink ; Mr. F. W. (Jampion, Reigate, taking second prize, his Flora Mclvor and Meg -Merrilies being very showy. For a vase of cut Koses, arranged with ferns and grasses, open to ladies, Mrs. 0. (i. Orpen took first prize! Mrs. -Mawley, Rosebaok, being second. These were pleasing light arrangements in each case, ferns, grasses, lolypodium aureum, and Asparagus being the chief things employed with Roses. ihe gold medal of the society for the best new garden Rose was secured by Messrs. (J. Coolin- and Sons, Bath, for the new Rose Purity, a snow- wnite kind very free and profuse according to the plants shown. " Miscellaneous. The mixed and other groups at the above meet- ing were by no means numerous, extensive coUec- tions of hardy plants coming from well-known sources and embracing all the most popular hardy flowers in season, Messrs. Barr and Sons, Messrs 31 .lacknian, of Woking, Messrs. Cheal, of Crawley, all bringing a goodly as.sortmcnt of the best hardfy things, among which many fine Larkspurs were quite a feature. In the group from Messrs. Wallace, Colchester, were many beautiful things, such as Lilies in abundance, the noble L. Wittei, with its golden central band on a snowy white ground, rendering it (|uite uni(|ue. Other Lilies included the lovely L. rubellum, L. monadel- nhurn, L. Hansoni, L. umbellatum and L. Thun- bergianum forms, many charming Ixias, a bold array of Hemerocallis aurantiaca miijor, very showy, Calochortus in plenty, Ornithogalum ara- bicum, &c. The Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Chel- sea, had a splendid lot of |)0t Roses, well-grown plants, dwarf and nicely ilowered ; these were supported by Palms, Bamboos and the like and margined with Eurya latifolia variegata, while from Swanley Messrs. Cannell and Sons sent an imposing bank of Cannas in the leading sorts. Messrs. J. Laing and Sons, of Forest Hill, also sent a very beautiful group composed of double Begonias, interspersed with Palms, Caladiums and other fine-foliaged plants. They also showed baskets of cut flowers and an assortment of hardy flowers. Messrs. Dobbie and Co., Rothes.ay, ex- hibited a fine and varied lot of Tufted Pansies and Sweet Peas. The Messrs. Laxton Bros. , Bed- ford, sent several baskets of their new Straw- berries, including Leader, Mentmore and Royal Sovereign, the fruits large, but the colour seemed lacking. A full prize list will be found in our advertise- ment columns. National Carnation and Picotee Society. —We are asked to state that in consequence of the lateness of the season the show is postponed until Wednesday, July 27. The tickets of admission to the Crystal Palace issued for the ■20th will stand good for the postponed date, the 27th, and no others will be issued. Royal Horticultural feociety.— The next fruit and flower show of the Royal Horticultural Society will be held on Tuesday, July 12, in the Drill Hall, James Street, Westminster, 1—.") p.m. On this occasion spei'ial prizes will be offered for Roses, and at 3 o'clock a lecture on " Edible Peas" will be given by Mr. N. N. Sherwood. Notes of the Week. Ostrowskia magnifica.— We learn that this haudsome Bellflower is now blooming in the gardens at Hamslade, Bampton, N. Devon. PsBonia albiflora striata is a curiously striped single form that will find some admirers, although it is somewhat smaller than the majority cf kiods. The .sliglitly cupped flowers are heavily striped with reddish carmine on a wbite ground. Sweet Pea Princess May is of a very pretty shade of blue-mauve that renders it pleasing in any arrangement of these forms of Lathyrus odoratus. Another very charming thing in the eame slude is Lidy Nina Balfour, a very pleasing soft mauve tone. Irisjuncei an! its variety numidica :ire among the most inJispeusible of bulbous Iiisei for ear!v July. The rush-leaved forms come when the maiority of the Spanish kinds are passing and are the'rcfore welcome in their lovely and distinct shades of yellow. Phlomia Hueselliana. — This very distinct hardy perennial is too little known, or at least but only rarely seen in good condition. It ia quite removed from a large number of hardy perennials, the leafage as well as the large whorls of yellow and white flowers being very striking in a group. Rose Lady Mary PitzwilUam.— This variety 13 a great success this year, some of the flowers being of large size, and the bulk generally of a meritorious character and fine in colour. Quiti smiU bushes, too, have produced a large number of handsome flowers that will please those who require a good garden Rose. Lupinus poIyphylluB Somerset.— In the soft yellow of the blossoms that crowd the flower- spike of this plant there is little to distinguish it from I the well-known Tree Lupine (L. arboreus), which spe- Icies p.-obiblyhad eomethingto djwith the new-comer. which will be an acquisition. The tone of yellow ia 80 soft and pleasing that should the plant prove a good vigorous grower, in common with border Lupines generally, it will make a valuable addition to hardy plants. Hemerocallis aurantiaca major.— The Day Lilies lan boast no more handsome or beautiful kind than lliisi, which surpasses all elsa in its rich and telling ehade of colour. The plant, moreover, is of the same easy culture as are all the race, and there- fore of great value in the garden. So good a plant deserves to be grown very freely. Bose Mrs. W. J. Grant.— It tpsxka volum's for the popularity of any Howrr. ijuite apart from the reliable character of any variety of K jse, to see it included in every winning stand where its inclusion is permissible. This was so with the above at the Crystal Palace show last Siturday, and in many instances the bloruns simply faultless in size, CDlour, anil form ; some, indeed, were manrillic?nt. , .,^.®Sonia Florence Nightingale.— The pnssi- bdities of any groupof so-cilled florists' floweraappeir unknown, yet one may reasonably assume that for fize, purity of cobur, dwartopsi of habit and remark, able freedom of flowering it would b3 difficult to sur- pass this handsome kind. The fljwers are of snowy whiteness and remarkable for size, while the habit of growth is all that can be desired. Lavatera arborea variegata. — Three splendid examples of this from Messrs. Cannell attracted a good deal of attention at the Drill Hall last week. The soecimens in question were between 3 feet and 4 feet high and nearly i feet through. The plants were about three years old and retained their variegated ch.aracter ia a .surprising manner. Root room wa^, however, limited, and this may have served to keep down excessive vigjur. Buddleia globosa.— There is a magnificent plant of this Buddleia in a garden close to the electric tram line from Kingstown to Dublin. It exceeds the height given by Mr. Bean as that usually attained by this species in this country, and must be at least 15 feet high. Mr. Burbidgo told me that it had not been cut back by any of the winters. It was very fine la^t month and covered with its yellow balls.— S. Arxott. Silene alpestris.— The pretty shining pros- trate tufts of this plant are now covered with singularly beautiful pure white blossoms, which, though not large in themselves, are produced in such quantity as almost to hide the greater part of the tuft. For the rock garden it is a capital plant, though it would be impossible to surpass the free carpet of growth and numerous blossoms that result when the plant has attained a large size in good border soil. Campanula G. F. 'Wilson.— This charming little hybiid Bellflower is now in full bloom on the rockwork. The excessive amount of rain which . fell last winter did not seem to agree with it, and at first it made rather weakly growth. Now it has made considerable progress and ia covered with its pretty semi-drooping deep blue flowers. If occasional dressings of bone-dust are given, its vigour is much increased. -S. Ar.n'ott, Carxet/ioni, hy Dumfries. Pink Albino. — So far as purity is concerned, together with form and substance of petal, this is, perhaps, one of the finest Pinks ever raised. So far, however, the small plants do not appear to possess the requisite vigour or freedom for a first-class border Pink. The plants referred to, it should be stated, are certainly not large, and it is possible another year may see some im- provement in what is certainly a very beautiful and highly fragrant kind. Pboenocoma prolifera Barnesi This free- flowering New Holland shrub, that we are so accustomed to see twisted unnaturally around a wire frame, was shown at the Drill Hall a week ago in a far more natural style. The plants bad apparently been grown to about 9 inches high and then stopped, and with but little after- pinching allowed their own way, finally forming large handsome heads, which were a mass of rich bright blossoms. In this way this plant is much more serviceable for grouping. Sweet Brier Anne of Gerolstein. — At Strafi'an most of Lord Penzance's Hybrid Sweet 32 THE GARDEN. [JcLT 9, 1898. Briers are luxuriant and free blooming, but the above kind, nearly 20 feet in height and with drooping brandies set with rosy crimson flowers, is just now one of the best. For poles, arches, pergolas, dead shrubs or trees, &c., these Sweet Briers are a great gain, as scarcely anything could be more elegant in habit, so free-growing, so sweet and fresh in leafage, or having more variety in their blossoms. For planting in hedges near the house or for covering fences they would be charming. It does not appear to be generally known that cattle refrain from cropping the Sweet Biiers, but it is a fact well worth remem- bering.—F. W. BURBIDGE. The Mocassin Flower (Cypripedium spec- tabile) at Straffan. — There is now a bed of this consisting of twenty-four clumps, and in all bear- ing 451 flowers. Two of the largest plants bear thirty-five flowers each, and about 60 or 70 per cent, of the spikes are twin-flowered. There is some little variety in form and colour, but all the blossoms are very large and shapely, the sepals and petals pure white, and the swollen lips more or less rosy. This bed is eight or nine years old and is the result of tine dry clumps bought at the sale rooms. As thus seen, luxuriant in the open air, each stem 18 inches to 2 feet in height, no tropical Lady's Slipper could be more handsome. The results are so fine that I wish Mr. Bedford would kindly tell us his treatment as to soil and aspect, &c.— F. W. B. Iiilium Wittei. — There is no more beautiful Lily than this in the whole of the auratum group. The exceeding purity and great substance of its petals are marked features of this rare and hand- some kind, several flowers of which from Messrs. Wallace, of Colchester, appeared at the Drill Hall last week. In the plant shown the habit is quite dwarf, not more than 2J feet above the pot, and in this way its handsome flowers were seen to advantage. The pure blooms seemed but enhanced by the well-defined golden-yellow band down the centre of each segment. This is saying much, seeing the anthers were fully ripe, so that much care was needed to exhibit it in such perfect form. It is a superb Lily in every waj', and worth every care. Lilium Marhan. — This is the new hjbrid Lily which secured a first-class certificate last week at the Royal Horticultural Society, and as a garden Lily should prove of considerable merit. It is also likely to prove of easy culture by reason of the parentage, ^■iz. , a JIartagon form and L. Hansoni. The latter species is strongly in evi- dence in the hybrid, so much so that one might reasonably assume this to have been the pollen parent in this case. In the whorled character of the leaves and stems, and not less so in the general contour of the blooms, their size, &c., there is a marked character of L. Hansoni, the time of flowering also agreeing with that of this species. The colour, too, bears evidence of the cross, which is ijuite distinct from that of the species named. The new-comer should prove of service in the garden where room will alwaj'S be found for new and valuable plants. Primula Trailli. — Lovers of hardy plants generally have reason to thank Mr. G. F. Wilson for the infinite pains he has taken concerning the identity of the plant exhibited by him before the floral committee of the Royal Horticultural Society a little more than a year ago under the above name, and so far everything is very gratifying. At the same time, the very anxious desire of the majority of the floral committee to grant awards in such cases would appear to render the verifica- tion of any so-called new species in future a sort of necessity either by the Kew authorities or a sub-committee of hardy plant specialists acting in conjunction with the floral committee. It was, I know, very clear to a few hardy plant men that the plant in question was but a form of P. involucrata. An opinion to this effect I gave in the pages of The (iARDEN at the time, not being a member of the floral committee. The frankness of Mr. Wilson now places the matter in a clear light, and seeing the award made by the floral committee was intended for Primula Trailli, this committee has but one course to pursue and unre- servedly withdraw the award in question— E. .Jenkins, Hampton HiU. Foxg-loves and Larkspurs : A beautiful effect. — There is now a singularly pretty eft'ect at Batsford Park of white and spotted Foxgloves, tall and well grown, covering a large space in a young and open plantation, with here and there the tall spikes of blue Delphiniums, these coming from stock to spare in the garden. The Fox- gloves of the best spotted and white kinds at first were sown broadcast and afterwards renewed themselves. \\'here the white or creamy kinds come together and the slender blue spikes of the Larkspurs arise near them, the ett'ect is beautiful andsingular. This is only one of many charming combinations of this kind that might be made in what we might call the shrubbery garden— that is, instead of crowding the undergrowth of precious trees and shrubs with Laurel, Privet, and such things, planting free-growing hardy plants like these. It is very easily done, and there is scarcely a garden where there are not lots of beautiful things among perennials which are overgrown and ready to be planted elsewhere. Such gar- dening well done is really more beautiful in colour than anything in the regulation flower garden almost, owing to the fine backgrounds and the aid of rising steins of shrub and tree. Tropaeolum polyphyllum.— That this free- flowering and handsome trailing species is grown in some quantity is shown by the numerous branches of it among the exhibits at the Drill Hall last week. It is in many respects a valuable species, and may be put to a variety of uses in the garden, by reason of its freedom and the way in which it adapts itself so readily to varied positions. It is, perhaps, the most persistent grower of its race, springing up through hard gravel walks several feet away from the spot ■where the original tubers were planted. In the rock garden in sloping positions it is especially attractive if allowed to ramblo at will and not tied up to sticks as is sometimes seen. If it is desired to train it erect, the sprays or boughs should be placed quite early in position, but the plant is not so well suited for this, as there are no tendrils to cling or climb with. Rambling pros- trate over rocks the effect of yellow blossom and glaucous leafage is quite marked, and a group thus placed is sure to attract attention. The plant being so easily managed and distinct in character may also be employed for window boxes or large vases in the garden. If necessary the tubers receive no injury by being lifted each year and stored away in a dry place. Campanula mirabilis. — A small flowering plant of this much-talked of species came before the floral committee of the Royal Horticultural Society last week and obtained a first-class certi- ficate. Seeing the flowers of this Caucasian species come s > nsar to thoje of some of the forms of C. Medium, it is strange so dignified an award was bestowed upon it. By a singular coincidence the Messrs. Veitch and Sons were at the same meeting the exhibitors of a splendidly. grown batch of these Canterbury Bells, such as are rarely seen in the open ground, much less as pot plants pure and simple. Yet these splendid examples, well known and tried as of rare horticultural value, received not the least recognition from the society, not even an "award" for the excellence of the strain, or even a cultural commendation, both of which the exhibit j'lstly deserved. Thus grown the plants surpass all else of their kind ever staged at the Drill Hall. The plants of Campanula Medium calycanthema exhibited could hardly have been better done ; they certainly could not have been more truly representative of the strain, which was an exceptionally good one, or have produced larger blossoms more greatly varied in colour. I am not now assuming that the example of C. mirabilis was a representative one, for the plant is said to form a pyramidal branching bush 2 feet high, bearing hundreds of the pale blue flowers. What I say is that the plant shown insufficiently indicated its horticul- tural value, and that the higher award may have been withheld for a time. From a purely garden or decorative standpoint, were I asked my opinion, I should unhesitatingly favour the excellent strain of C. Medium above noted as calculated to serve a far wider sphere of usefulness than is the above novelty, so far as present experience can judge. 1 doubt not, however, that those who have large rosettes of C. mirabilis more than a foot across will expect to see a handsome pyramid of bloom that will not wholly disappoint at flowering time. The flowers are of a pretty pale blue tint and the plant evidently a profuse bloomer. — E. Jenkins, Hampton Hill. Orchis maculate superba. — I noticed an article in The Garden (p. 553) about Orchis maculata superba, and I give you my experience of it. The plant from which I got my present piece was planted upwards of thirty years ago, and it has never been disturbed, a small piece being taken off occasionally for a friend. A grand clump it is, too, so the theory of dividing will not hold in this case. The last garden I had charge of was in Ayrshire, very close to where it was discovered. I grew it there very well ; in fact, I had longer spikes there than I have ever seen since. About twenty years ago I sent a spike to the editor of The Garden, and the length of in- florescence was l.S inches. I would like to know if that has ever been surpassed. I was not con- tent to let well alone. I wished to increase it, and when the plant was dying down it was taken J up and the tubers separated, with the result that ] in two years there was not a single plant left. The plant here has been in the same place for nine years, is as healthy as ever, and it has j twenty-eight spikes of bloom to-day. The only thing it requires is a little top-dressing in the i autumn with fresh loam as the roots come to the surface. I have often seen it planted in old garden soil, but in a year or two it had dis- appeared. I take out the old soil to the depth of 2 feet and fill in with fresh loam, and that seems to suit it. — John Harper, Kirkconndl Oardenn, New Abbey. Obituary. MR. WILLIAM MILLER. We regret to announce the death of Mr. William Miller, author of " A Dictionary of English Plant Names." He was a man of varied learning and who took much interest in native and other plants. From a very early age he was an accomplished scholar, and for several years had been head classical master at Stackpoole's famous school at Kingstown and afterwards at Ennis College, having taken first honours at Trinity College in classics and mathematics. He died at Bally - (■anew, Ireland, at the age of 67 years. The ■weather in West Herts.— At the beginning of the week the weather was rathtr warm, but during the last few days the tempera- tures have been somewhat below the average. At 1 foot deep the ground is of about average warmth, but at 2 feet deep it still remains rather cold for the time of year. On two occasions rain fell, but taken together the fall only amounted to about a quarter of an inch. During June the temperature was very variable ; indeed, during the course of it there occurred three distinct warm and three distinct cold periods. Taken as a whole, it was with two exceptions, 1886 and 1892, the coldest June during the past thirteen years. Rain fell on thirteen, or about the usual number of days for the month, but only to the depth of an inch, which is less than half the June average. The record of sunshine was small, only averaging 6J hours a day, or an hour short of the mean for the month. The Junes of 1888, 1890, and 1894 were, however, more sun'es?. — E. M., Berkhamsted. THE GARDEN. No. 1391.— Vol. LIV.] [JULY 16, 1898. Orchids :— AiJgntt'um litnitum .. .. 31 Catasetuai Christyauum .. 34 Cattleya superba 83 Dendrobiuin clirysanthum Kpitlomimm nenioralo .. Lit'lm \Vy:ittiana I.a'Ucipsis domingensis ,. Masdevallia racemoaa . . (Vloutoglossum eirrhosum ru- j^cum <.).loutoglo3»um Insleayi Odontoglussiim Roe/.U .. (inci-iium cirthiiginense itmidiuni lougipes . . rivila'iiop.- is laiddemanniima rhala'ii.iptis Maimi .. .. The Market Garden:— Nectarines for Peaclios and market ChrysanthemamB :— Chrvsanthcniums, notes on . 30 Destroyers :— Fruit tree beetle 30 Flower:— Begonias, double tuberous .. 40 Ctemati^ep, tbe 30 Crci'per-, i-onie useful sum- mer flowering 40 Crepis sibirica Oenti'ina acmt/is Oentianii nsclcpiadca Giiitiana sfplctnjltla at Etloa nail Gentians I ris caroliniana Lathyrua cn-riileus liiliep, cnp-shaped Nemesia striunosa Suttoni . . Pansies, four good Tufted .. Panties, Tufted Pentstemon George Fisher . . Phloxes, herbaceous . . . . Primroses, blue Rock Roses Stocks, Brompton Roses :— Brier.-*, Sweet, the four best Peu/^ince Rosa fimbriata Rose Camoens on dwarf stan- dards Rose Caroline Testout . . Rose Crimson Bedder .. .. Rose Dometille Becar . . . . Rose Dupuy Jamain Rose Gloire Lyonnaise .. Rose Leda Rose Louis van Houtte , . .. Rose Ma Surprise Rose Marie Pare (Jllustrationsi in Italia.) Rose Marie Robert Rose Mme. Isaac Periere and its sports Rose Princessc de Monaco .. Rose, The Dawson Roses, combination of early- flowering Roses, early -blooming, notes on Roses, new climbing Poly- antha Garden Flora:— rdan/odium, (he Ivy-tcai-ol, (w a vase plant Pelargonium, the zonal . .. Week's VTork :— Fruit under glass, work among Kitchen garden, work in Kitchen :~ Beet Crimson Ball in sum- mer . . ColeworU Lettuce Hicks' Hardy .. Onions, exhibition Pea Earliest Marrow PeaVeitch's Earliest Marrow. Peas, autumn Turnip Swans Egg Turnip, the Swede, for win- ter 40 VeKefalilcs, the flavuur of .. 45 Orchard and Frnlt :— Apple IJ'iston Russet .. .. 4S Cherries, Morello 47 Fruit at Richmond IS Melon Frogmore Orange .. 47 Pear Easter Beurr6 40 J'car liasta- Bevn-e 46 Strawberry Leader 46 Strawberries, annual .. .. 48 Trees, fruit, summer pruning of 47 Trees, Peach, in jlow(;r, tJcctch nhowinq hoif to protect.. .. 47 Walls, m'uvable copings for . . 47 Trees and Shrubs x— ^^ Cistus laurifolius .. -. .. 48 48 Philadelphus macrophyllus Spir^a flagelliformis Spin^ajiagelliforiais Societies :— Royal Horticultural .. .. 49 Notes of the Week :— Allium kansuense 51 Antirrhinum Yellow Prince.. 52 Broom, the Shipka £2 Bviddloias 52 Campanula conisia 52 Campanula grandia alba . , 52 Campanula pvmctata .. ., 51 Combination, a pretty .. .. 51 Cran brook, notes from ., .. 5*2 Diauthus cajsius 51 Gloxinia Her Majesty •• ^ •• 51 Gunneni manieata, tho Nar- row Water ■ • 51 Hydrangea paniculata grand!- flora 51 Iris Leon Tolstoi 52 1, ilium Hansoni 51 Lupinus arVjoreus 52 Lychnis, W^alker's hybrid .. 52 Rhododendron occidentiUe .. 52 Straffan, the Mocassin Flower at 52 Thalictrum tuberosum -• .. 51 Winchmore Hill, flowers from 51 Public Gardens:— Gardens, pultlic, and the study of botany Open spaces C^ueensferrj', a new park for. HlscellaneouB ;— Acalyphas Ironj galvanised, for stages.. Name wanted Tank, water, making a . . . , Weather, the, in West Herts- 52 62 52 41 62 52 52 61 Orchids. CATTLEYA SUPERBA. The long life or otherwise of this fine Cattleya is always doubtful, and among a batch of im- poi'ted plants some are sure to continue in health longer than others. Now and then one comes across tine plants that have been grown on year after year, but it is not so often as one might wish. Scores of plants die annually, the life of a plant in many cases not exceeding half a dozen years under cultivation. Lately some cultivators have been very successful with it by giving less heat than was formerly advised, but this is only one of the methods that have been tried and found to succeed for a time only. There is no doubt that it has been overdone with heat in some instances. Not that the heat itself is harmful ; indeed, if a plentiful supply of air is always moving over the foliage, I question if it could by any reasonable means be kept much too hot. But heat and moisture without due regard to the consolidating of the growth will not do. Large pseudo-bulbs are an advantage no doubt, but they must be exposed to the summer sun and abundant air currents to thoroughly ripen them. It is more necessary for this species than for any other Cattleya ; in fact, few other species will stand so much sun- light. Another point is to keep the water supply going until the bulbs are really fully de- veloped, for a plant starved in autumn has not the power to break strongly in spring, and is the first to shrivel from want of water during the winter's rest. I never like to .see C. superba shrivel in the least while at rest, and while a distinct resting season is required, the water supply must be kept sufticiently good to I)revcntthis. When growth commences, very little moisture at the root suffices; but when it is well away and root action is also free, a large supply is necessary, the plant having a lot to do in a .short time. All thesesummer-floweringCattleyas, in fact, that push up a young growth and flower upon it at once are alike in this respect They take a longer resting season as a rule than those that rest in sheath and make up for it by taking a larger supply of water during the short growing season. The flowers open as the bulb is thickening up, and are of a bright rosy purple shade on the sepals and petals, the lip marked with deep crimson -purple, yellow and white. N\'hen the flowers are fully open the plants may be placed in a light and rather cooler house, shading the flowers as long as they are open and afterwards giving almost full exposure to the sun. With regard to the treatment of the roots, it is imperative that something of a lasting char- acter be provided, for they dislike disturbance, and the backward tendency spoken of in many a fine plant dates from the first repotting. I have had finer growth on C. superba by using pots or baskets than blocks, but a well-known cultivator has described his method of treat- ment, which has been satisfactory, and advises the use of Tree Fern stems as blocks. The natural roughness of this material would of course make it more suitable than a bare block of wood, and anyone having this aid to culture may use it with every prospect of success, pro- vided the plants are otherwise well treated. For pots or baskets the compost should be kept very thin, and plenty of Sph.agnum Moss rather tlian peat should be used. ()aite three parts of Moss to one of peat will be suitable, and with it plenty of rough crocks. Tlirips are very partial to C. superba, and unless carefully kept under, this pest soon spoils the appearance of the plants. Vaporising and occasional sponging will soon rid the plant of the insects and must not be neglected. C. superba is a widely dis- tributed plant geographically, and it is singular that more variety is not found in the flowers. Discovered early in the present century, it was not cultivated in this country until 1838, when it was sent from British Guiana by Sir R. Schomburgk. Masdevallia racemosa. —This is a fine spe- cies where well done, the racemes of flower occur- ring with freedom and containing many flowers of a bright orange shade, sufl'used with a brighter colour. In habit it is looser than the usual run of Masdevallias, the leaves not so tufted, but occurring further apart on a semi - creeping rhizome. Wide receptacles and a compost with plenty of rough open material, so that air and water may enter and leave the compost freely, are necessary. Dendrobium chrysantlium. — This is flowering at rather an unseasonable time, but the pretty sweet-scented golden-yellow blossoms are welcome. It blooms always upon the newly-made growths, and often while the foliage is still fresli, this giving it a fine appearance. The plants do best and look best in baskets, so that the long cylindrical stems take a natural semi-pendent direction. Rough peat and moss are the best compost, and the growth must be allowed its own way to a certain extent, the temperature being arranged to suit its habit of growing in winter. Odontoglossum Roezli — This is a very un- reliable plant, some growers getting on with it tolerably well, but others— and these perhaps the majority— being far from successful. Its flowers, too, appear at all seasons, but when really good are sure to be admired. They are each upwards of 3 inches across, white, with a yellow centre to the lip and a purple-crimson blotch on each petal. 0 Koezli requires more heat than any other species in the genus, with plenty of sunhght and abundance of water at the root. It is nearly always more or less in growth, and should be potted in peat fibre and moss over good drainage. Iijeliopsis domingensis.— This is probably the only species in the genus that is at present under cultivation, and is a pretty plant, with somewhat the habit of the Mexican Ladias. The flowers occur upon branching spikes and are of a pretty soft rose in colour. L. domingensis, coming from the islands of Cuba and San Domingo, requires a warm, moist and very light house while growing, must be thoroughly ripened by exposure to sun and air and well rested. Under this treat- ment the plants seldom fail to flower, and the roots must either be confined to small baskets or placed on blocks. Phalaenopsis Manni. — This is a pretty Moth Orchid, with branching spikes containing about a dozen blossoms each not more than "J 34 THE GARDEN. [July 16, 1898. inches across. The sepals and petals are variable in colour, some of the better forms being of ([uite a golden yellow, with brown markings, while in others the flowers are nearly white or very pale yellow. It is a species of moderate growth, requiring a fair-sized basket or pot and a thin compost or layer of Sphagnum Moss. The foliage must not be heavily shaded nor must it be wetted much with the syringe, especially in dull weather. The species is a native of Assam, and first flowered in England about 1871. Catasetum Christyanum. — This singular species I have recently seen in good condition, the spikes of flower very stout, erect, carrying from a dozen to eighteen flowers. The colour may not be attractive enough to find favour with present-day growers, but, all the same, such plants ought' always to be grown where anything like a representative collection is aimed at. The sepals are chocolate, the lip purple and green — a rather unusual combination of colour. These plants delight in ample warmth and light while growth is in progress, should be thoroughly ripened by exposure to sun and air in autumn, and have a distinct resting season. — H. ing seasons. The plants must not be dried, or they will resent it by shrivelling and pushing weak growths. Besides the typical plant named above, there are several fine varieties, including leopardinum, panthericum, splendens, and others. These ditiTer principally in the colour of the flowers, the last-named being an especially fine one, much larger than the type. 0. Insleayi is a native of Mexico, and was first discovered by Ross about sixty years ago, and sent by him to Mr. Barker, of Birmingham. For a longtime it was rare, so many plants having died, but some years later it was again introduced in quantity, and has fre- quently been imported since. the bottom, these being lightly surfaced with clea n Sphagnum Moss kept growing. — H. ODONTOULOSSUM INSLEAYI. This is a capital plant for the amateur cultivator. Its culture does not present any especial diffi- culty, though care in all the details must be prac- tised. The habit of the plant is very like that of O. grande. The flowers appear on erect spikes about seven or eight on each, and in colour they are bright yellow more or less blotched with red- dish brown on the sepals and petals, the lip orna- mented with many bright red spots usually about the margin. I know of no better place to grow this Odontoglossum than a cool or greenhouse fernery. The atmospheric conditions here are very like those obtaining in the native habitat, and, though possibly the plants could do with a little more moisture than is required for Ferns, a medium course may be made between the two which will do for both. In the Orchid houses proper the plants may be grown in the cool house and fairly shaded during summer. Al- though O. Insleayi cannot be said to be constant in its time of growing and flowering, it is not worth while trying to bring it in at any special time. Where a lot of plants is grown, some are sure to be earlier than others, but this is an ad- vantage rather than otherwise, as it prolongs the season of flowering with no harm to the plants, as they like regularly cool and moist quarters all the year round. Large specimen plants of 0. Insleayi are not so often seen as of 0. grande, . and usually the plants sent out from nurseries are so small that they have to be massed to make anything approaching a fine plant. Good masses are sometimes offered at the sale rooms, but when they get into the nurserymen's hands these are soon made less. I do not care for massed plants as a rule, and especially not of a species like this, that varies considerably in colour and markings. Far better keep them single, and grow them on as quickly as possible ; they are very free, and soon make nice neat little specimens. They should ha\'e pots of medium size, according to that of the plant, and a rough compost suits the somewhat fleshy roots. Pots, say, 8 inches in width may be filled to within ■2 inches of the rim with crocks. Allow a fair margin around the plants, or repotting will soon be necessary again, but avoid setting the plants too high. They must be elevated a little, but not so stuck up that the watering is difficult. The plants may be potted just at the time growth is starting, and here it may be noted that the small snails so frequently seen about cool Orchids are very destructive to this plant at this time. They manage to get through the tough outer scales and eat out the embryo flower- spike and part of the young growth, quite ruin- ing the plant in fact. Moisture at the roots must be regular rather than changing much at the resting and grow- Odontoglossum cirrhosum roseum. — Under this name I have received flowers of one of the rosy-tinted forms of O. cirrhosum, a pretty sec- tion that makes a distinct contrast to the ordi- nary forms, and is beautiful in itself. In the flowers to hand the rose tint is confined princi- pally to the centre of the sepals and margin of the petals, the lip also having a slight suft'usion, though this is of a lighter tint. If such fine tints of rose turn up as are occasionally seen in cris- pum they would form a very fine class, but though I have seen many with a tinge of rose, none as yet comes up to this standard. — H. Laelia Wyattiana. — The blossoms of this species, or natural hybrid, although not so broad in the segments or showy as those of many other kinds, are very pretty and distinct and well worth a place. The flowers are each about 4V inches across, the sepals and petals nearly pure white, and the lip has a deep purple front and yellow side lobes — a pretty combination, not un- like that occurring in Lielia crispa. Its culture is not difficult, the plant thriving well in com- pany with L. elegans, L. purpurata, and others from South Brazil, whence it has been imported occasionally. It is dedicated to the late Mr. G. N. Wyatt, of Cheltenham, with whom it first flowered. Phalsenopsis Luddeinanniana. — I noted a fine spike of this species this week bearing six flowers, each about 2^ inches across. The sepals and petals are rather heavily blotched with chestnut-brown on a pale yellow ground, and the lip is bright amothyst-purple and white. Although not particularly difficult to grow when good spe- cimens are procured, this species does not grow so freely as P. amabilis or P. Schilleriana, and when in indifi'erent health it is a difficult subject to thoroughly restore. Small baskets are prefer- able to large ones and the roots are better with only a small amount of compost about them, this consisting of clean Sphagnum Moss and charcoal or crocks only. There are many varieties of this species, which was introduced from the Philip- pine Islands by Messrs. Hugh Low and Co. in 1S64.— H. AngrsBcum citratum. — Although a dwarf species, this is a very pretty plant when well grown, the long, semi-pendent racemes of whitish flowers having a tine appearance against the dark green of the foliage. A plant with three racemes has been very pretty with me during the last month, and it deserves a place in any collection. One of the discoveries of L)u Petit Thouars during his voyage late in the last century, A. citratum was not introduced to this country for many years afterwards, and was then for a long time rare, but subsequent importations have made it plentiful enough. Its native habitat is Madagas- car, where it grows in swampy, moist positions on low undergrowth. A hot, moist house is best for it, and although the growth is freer in a dense shade and the plants take on a deep green tint, the flowers are not so freely produced as on plants growing in a good light. In nurseries the plants of this and similar kinds are often packed close together on stages a long way from the glass, but the position most of them, including A. citratum, enjoy is one not far from the roof where plenty of light and air is found. The baskets should have a few large pieces of crocks and charcoal in ONCIDIUM CARTHAGINENSE. It is surprising that some of these ebulbous On- cidiums are not a good deal more grown, this spe- cies, for instance, being as handsome as any in the genus, with finely spotted foliage and very pretty flowers. As a rule, if one comes across a plant of it in an out-of-the-way place it is a poor, half-starved thing that gives but little idea of what the plant is capable of. I have had it with leaves 2 feet and upwards in length, broad and handsomely marked, and the flower- spikes several yards in length, that, looped up to the roof or twining about other plants, have an exceptionally pretty effect, notwithstanding the small size of the individual blossoms. The latter occur on short side racemes all along the principal spikes, and have pretty rosy white sepals and petals, much crisped and undulating, the lip similar in colour, but of plainer outline. The culture of O. carthaginense for a few seasons after importing is extremely simple, the plants growing and rooting with great vigour, but unless care is taken every year to thoroughly consolidats the leafy system and to maintain the plants in a hard, sound condition, they will after this lose vigour and eventually make but little progress. As soon as the new growth of a season is seen to be smaller than that of the year preceding it, something is obviously wrong with the plants, and as likely as not it is the want of consolidation referred to. I have before stated in The Gardkn that these Oncidiums from the West Indies and Central America are often kept in too moist an atmosphere. Not but that they like moisture both at the roots and about the leaves, but it ought not to be continual, and a slight drying occasionally with the sun shining fully on their leaves helps to maintain the balance between a soft growth on the one hand and a semi- starved condition on the other. It is so with the species under notice, and much better results will follow this kind of treatment than a course of continuous atmospheric moisture and heavy shade, notwith- standing the healthy appearance of the plants under the latter rajime. The treatment of the roots is simple enough, and no difficulty will be found in inducing them to take a firm hold of anything provided for their reception. They do not care for a heavy or thick compost, but always seem most at home and longer-lived when they are rambling about on the outside of a pot or basket in such a position that they are often dry. A thin layer of Sphagnum Moss and peat oyer abundant drainage and plenty of rough material then may be chosen. In this the roots will fre- quently run dry and need moisture, a condition conducive to the long life of epiphytal Orchid roots. The temperature of the Cattleya house will suit ii, or it may be grown with the Mexican La'lias. It is one of the oldest of known Orchids, having been discovered in Central America far back "in the last century, while it flowered in England in 1804. Oncidium longipes. — The flowers of this Oncidium, produced on small spikes containing about three or four, are very pretty and long- lasting. It is very free flowering, so much so, that almost every young shoot has its flower- spike, and as these come successively, the plants make a show for a long time. The sepals and petals are yellow and brown, the lip brighter yel- low with a prominent crest. Not being a very vigorous plant, the receptacles for its growth should not be too lalrge, a flat pan or basket or a pot nearly filled with drainage suiting it wfll. The plant spreads considerably, so that the pot may be wide in comparison with the plant, the ordinary description of compost suiting it well. At no time is a very heavy water supply neces- sary, but during summer when the plants are carrying their flowers and developing their growth at the same time they need fairly fre- quent attention. In winter the roots should not be Jnr.Y IG, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 35 dried, the treatment in this way beinf? similar to that recently given for 0. concolor. The temperature may he rather above that of the Odontoglossura house, a cool, moist medium in summer and winter and a fair amount of shacjo being rc<|uirc(l. O. longipes is a native of Rio de Janeiro, whence it was introduced about 1850, and it has freiiuently been imported from various other parts of South America. Epidendrum nemorale. — This is one of the liuest of I'.pidendrums and a good garden Orchid, showy, yet delicate, and pretty and very free. The |)-eudobulbsare rather short, liut l)ear long leaves, the Howers appearing at the upper part of the erect spikes The colour is a pretty shade of mauve with deeper lines upon the lip, but it varies somewhat in dilierent plants. Its habit suits it be.st for pot culture, the pots being fairly large and well drained, and filled with equal parts of peat libre and Sphagimm Moss. The plant requires care both in potting and subseiiuent watering, the I'oots being easily injured by undue disturbance or a surfeit of moisture. It comes from Mexico, where it is distributed over a large tract of country ; and whether from some localities the plants are stronger in constituion or they are collected at a more suitable time I am unable to say, but certainly some do much better than others, though apparently (|uite as vigorous at first. 1 have not found it a fastidious plant as to temperature, having obtained good results in a fairly cool house and al.so when grown with the Cattleyas. I should choose the latter for prefer- ence, as the growth is more free. During the season of growth it is a very thirsty subject, and being evergreen must not be dried in winter. — H. The Market Garden. PEACHES AND NECTARINES FOR MARKET. If the average gardener were consulted as to the possibility of growing Peaches and Necta- rines for the markets profitably, the chances are the reply would be decidedly in the nega- tive. A similar reply would also be returned by some market growers of my accjuaintance. At the present time I have a span-roofed house 145 feet long fairly well stocked with trees. Peaches would pay fairly well if the price averaged Gs. per dozen fruit, but this I hold to be a low average, 8s., clear of all charges, being nearer the mark. Commencing late in Slay with ].5s. per dozen for the best of the fruit, going up to 18s., this price holding good during the Ascot week, also for a few days preceding and succeeding that week, they gradually drop to 9s. per dozen, at which price all forced Peaches and Nectiirines ought to be cleared out. It is only fair to state that these prices are only realised by highly-coloured or moderately well- coloured fruit, the seconds fetching one-third less than the best samples, but of these there ought not to be many to pack, unless overcropping be the order of the day. The cost of produc- tion I liave not worked out, and can only say that the house devoted to Peaches and Necta- rines is less trouble than when planted with Tomatoes, and the amount of fire-heat expended would be about the same as required for Tomatoes — less certainly rather than more. It is private gardeners or men with some previous experience with Peach and Nectarine trees that ought to commence their culture on a mode- rately large scale to produce superior fruit for the markets. Others who have started without knowing what they were about contrive to get into a rare muddle with their trees, and I could point to a large number of trees run wild and pushing through the glass in all directions. In another case, a private garden rented by a market grower, the trees are being cropped for "all they are worth," and when that grower has done with them it is not mucli they will be worth. Such examples serve to bring discredit upon what is really an important industry, those responsible for or suH'ering from the etiects of such blundei-s naturally having but a poor opinion of that particular branch of horti- culture. Best Market Vauikties. Not a little depends upon the choice of varie- ties. If the beginner "places himself in the hands of a nurseryman," leaving the selection to him, and by so doing getting a few shillings reduction in price, it is just possible he will find this false economy. Some of the varieties received may be admirably adapted for forcing and marketing, and the rest not. A favourite Peach with many is Royal George, but this variety is not one to plant wholesale. It is in some respects too good for the purpose, and, like many more high-class things, possesses a weakly constitution. The trees are liable to become infested by mildew and to fail prema- turely. Another fine Peach — Grosse Migmmne — is also, according to my views, unsuitable for market growing, and objections may also be urced against the colourless but luscious Noblesse. Nor do I recommend Alexandra Noblesse, yet all four varieties, and to which I add Stirling Castle, a fine but somewhat soft Peach, are deservedly among the most popular grown in private gardens. Early Beatrice, Early Louise, Early Alfred, and Rivers' Early York are all extra early, and, as a rule, good in quality, but I would not plant any of them. Well-grown fruit of Alexander and Waterloo (they are very much alike) fetch the highest prices, and but for one bad failing of these extra early varieties would be extensively grown. There is no certainty about their holding their buds, and this season I had to leave every fruit that set, or otherwise the crop would have been light. Amsden June is equally early, of the same free habit of growth, and sheds but few of its flower-buds prema- turely. On young trees or those growing strongly the fruit is a little under-sized, but as the trees age the fruit improves in size, and this season I had many that were large, handsome, and highly coloured. Trees of Amsden June are fast occupying space previously covered by Waterloo and Early Alexander. To succeed this I grow Hale's Early, which I find one of the best if not the most profitable variety in the house. The fruits are large, of fine colour, and the (juality is good. I have never yet failed with it. Early Rivers is a tine early Peach, which I would grow but for its bad habit of stone-splitting. My small tree cannot be cured of this, and is being gradually crowded out. Of Crimson Galande I have nothing but good words to write. It is a grand second early Peach. The trees with me never fail to set hea\-y crops, the fruits are large, and colour beautifully. Beliegarde if a week or so later than the last-named, and this again is a grand market Peach, ^'iolet Ilative is equally easy to grow, the fruit colouring beautifully and selling well. It ripens about the same time as Belle- garde. If yet another variety is wanted for forcing, Dymond should be grown, as it is reliable and good in every respect. As it is not advisable to have too many fruits ripening at one time, especially if they are sent direct to fruiterers, a few trees each of all the varieties recommended may be planted in one long house, keeping the later sorts, if any are grown, by themselves in another house or compart- ment. There is, however, nothing to prevent late varieties sharing a house with earlier ones, and for a local trade this arrangement may be advantageously adopted, but as a rule the early and second early Peaches pay best. Barringtoii would form a good succession to Violet Il.ative, and the fruits of this variety are large, colouring beautifully, keejiing and travelling well. All things considered, no late variety eiiuals Sea Eagle for heavy cropping, size, colour, and ([uality of the fruit. Tins variety al.so keeps and travi^ls exceptionally well. I have never sent any of the present volume a writer, referring to the single nature of Brompton Stock flowers, expresses the belief that seasons or weather may materially aff'ect the transference of pollen from double to single flowers : hence the lack of doubles in the progeny. But if anyone will take the trouble to examine a double Stock flower, especially of any Brompton variety, he will find that there is not the least evidence of any organs of fertility in these. It was in old days a recognised axiom that singles would not produce doubles by seed unless the two when in bloom were growing side by side. It was to disprove the incorrectness of that tradition the discussion referred to originated. Why good double strains of Stocks should revert to singles is very difficult to understand, but their doing so is nothing new. I have found it to be the case with scarlet and white Bromptons, with the branching Queens, and with summer Stocks. It must not be forgotten that the conversion of the true flower, with its Jdlt If), 18981 THE GAKDEK 39 four or, at the most, five petals, and its organs of fertility into a barren Moral l)rancli, is hut a sport, and nothing is easier than is reversion. It may ho, in fact, but an elTort of Nature to come back Gentiana asclepiadea. (See p. 37.) ti its pristine habit of seed-pro- duction. It is also possible that liberal cultiva- tion tends ma- terially to de-troy that doubling tendency which seems to bo largely created in Stocks by arti- ficial methods of culture, especial- ly in pots and under glass. — A. D. Four ^ood Tufted Pansies. — All will agree that Tufted Pansies are a most important class of hardy plants. Many of the old kinds hold their own now. and I doubt if ever they will be beaten from a free blooming point of view. Another recommendation many of the old kinds have is that they are decided in colour. The following are my favourites : Archibald (Jrant is a grand indigo-blue, the flowers large, and especially when the plants are young and growing in rich soil. With me this does not bloom as long as Ardwell Gem, which is very dwarf and very free blooming. As a white I cannot find any colour to surpass Countess of Hopetoun. It is compact in habit and keeps up a good succession of bloom. Those who want an attractive parti-coloured kind should grow Countess of Kintore. It is a deep blue- purple with broad edge of white. I have grown these kinds largely for upwards of a dozen years and see no reason for changing. — D. The Madonna Lily diseased.— This disease is very troublesome, and does not seem as if ever it will Ije exterminated. Mr. Burrell makes some remarks anent the disease, and he is under the impression that it is atmospheric. In this I am at one with him. But whether this is brought on by giving the plants too much rich food, and thereby producing a soft stem and leafage, I can- not say. Everyone knows only too well that many plants and animals are predisposed to some forms of disease when they are gorged by rich food. At the end of .Tune I was looking over a villa garden in Chard, where I have seen some of the finest flowers of this Lily. They are growing at the foot of a south wall, and to my surprise they were one mass of disease. I remarked to the owner as to their condition, and he said that they were stronger than ho had ever soon them, as he liad been feeding them, and that as long as no rich food was given there was no disease. I am convinced it is a mistake to give this Lily high living. In some of the cottage gardens in a village near here they bloom splendidly and never have disease. The i)lants never have any food, and have been in the same soil for the last eight or ten years. — Dorset. THE CLEMATISES. ( Cont iniied from page ■'>'iS.) Section II. — Vitickll.k. Thk Viticellfe (Viticella, a little vine) are > so called because, for the most part, they are climbing plants, like the Vine. The stems are branching, the leaves entire and glaucous, or nearly so, and the single flowers are borne on long peduncles in racemes or spikes. Larger than those of the paniculatie, the flowers ,J ire medium sized, blue ,•// generally or purple in colour, and rarely white. The sepals, four in num- ber, are when in bloom dis- played crosswise. There are four distinct types of ViticelliB : (1) Viticella, (2) Viorna (urni- gera), (.3) integrifolia, and (4) tubulo.sa. 1. Viticella. These are the Viticellas proper, high - climbing plants, the type of which has flowers with four crossed sepals. In this group I place C. revoluta, cris[)a, campaniflora, and divaricata. The more natu- ral way would be to make one distinct group of these, with C. campaniflora for the type, and give them one common name, as C. campaniflora. The Viticella forms dift'er from the Viorna and urnigera forms in the flowers, which, in- stead of being pitcher-shaped, are cylindrical, the sepals being also revoluta. not to mention the use which was to be made of the roots in grafting. C. Viticella has a number of varieties bearing purple, red, ro.se-coloured, violet, white, and double blue flowers. There is a dwarf species likewise in cultivation (Viticella nana), and, in late years, several interesting hybrids have been obtained, of which I shall speak in due course. The old double variety (Viticella plena) is still in cultivation. It is a pale blue flower with a tinge of red ; the four large sepals fall off, leaving the centre of the flower to continue long in bloom with a great number of small petaloid sepals, which in falling strew the ground. These are produced at the centre, which is sometimes proliferous, as in the case of C. florida plena. C. V^iticella is a charming Clematis, and from the facility with which it ripens its seeds it has proved of great value to the hybridiser. By using the purple forms of C. Viticella of late years the magnificent large and red flowers of C. Mme. Furtado Heine and Mme. Ed. Andrr have been obtained from C. Jackmani azurea and lanugi- nosa. i. C. REVOLfT.\. — This is not a white variety of C. Viticella, but a distinct species with smaller, white, and revolute flowers, the leaves also being distinct, larger, and of a brighter green. I have cultivated it along with a Clematis which came to me under the names of parviflora and capane:u- flora, and is a mere variety scarcely to be distin- guished from revoluta by its flowers being slightly tinged with violet, or lilac, on the outside. More- over, C. parviflora, although described as a spe- cies by Candolle, is commonly considered the same as C. revoluta. 3. C. CRisp.i. — This Clematis is of North American origin. Brought to France in 1726, it never became popular, and has been confused with other and allied species. I believe it came to me as C. Shillingi, a climbing species with rose-purple and fairly large flowers, and the sepals conniventat the base and wrinkled and curling at the edges. 4. C. CAMrANiFLORA (Brot. ) (the bell-flowered Clematis) I have long cultivate!. It is allied to the preceding, and through its flowers with their half-connivent sepals it forms a link with the urnigene of the next group. It is a charming spe- cies, with smooth, deep green leaves and graceful flowers of delicate purple-blue colour. It comes from Portugal, and has been in cultivation in France since 1810. Candolle classes it with C. Viticella on account of its seed-heads, which are bare and beardless. 5. C. DIVARICATA (.Jacq. ). — Under this name I saw in the museum at Paris a quite distinct spe- cies, which came into commerce under the name of C. Camuseti. Its flowers are fairly large, violet 1. C. Viticella (Linn.). — This is the type of the section. It was formerly known as the " blue " Clematis, under which name it is de- p scribed in the " Encj'- clopedie Methoditiue " and elsewhere. Its place of origin is Southern Europe, Spain, and Italy, but its geographical area extends even as far as Asia Minor and Persia (" Inde.x Kewensis "). Thus the blue Clematis belongs, among the Viti- cellas, to the Mediter ranean region, like C. Flammula amongst the C. paniculati'e. Its first introduction to France took place in 1569, and it soon became a favourite in gardens, where its blue flowers with their sepals, I four in number and ' crossed, caused quite a ' sensation when placed alongside the smaller | in colour, and half displayed. It is a climber, ! white flowers of C. Flammula; and as a climbing but subfrutescent, and rises to a height of a little I plant it was quite as well fitted to the adorn- , over (i feet. I ment of trellises and arbours. Later C. Viticella ' 2. Vicir.va (ckxiiieka). was to play, as a seed-bearer, an important part I place the urnigene apart from the Viticelhc I in the production of the large-flowered Clematis, proper. They form with C. Pitoheri and C. coc- Ueniiana acaulis, (See p. 37.) 40 THE GARDKN". [July 16, 1898. cinea a distinct race, characterised by little bell or rather pitcher-shaped flowers. I describe here five species, viz., (1) C. Viorna, (2) C. Pitcheri, (3) C. coccinea, (4) C. reticulata, (6) C. cylindrica. 1. C. ViOKXA (Linn). — This is not to be con- fused with our own hedge Clematis (C. Vitalba). It originally came from Northern America, Vir- ginia, and Carolina. It is the oldest known type among the urnigene (C. urnigera, Spack.), having been known in Europe since 1730. Viorna, like the other species of this group, is classed among the Viticelhv, notwithstanding that these have their carpels furnished with feathery tufts. It is characterised by its upward-growing stem and the pitcher-shaijed flowers, purple on the outside and yellow within, the sepals being thick and leathery, so to speak, and connivent for half their length. '2. C. Pitcheri (Torrey and Gray). — C. Pitcheri flourishes in the United States of America from Illinois to Mexico. It is closely allied to Viorna through its pitcher-shaped violet or violet-grey flowers, as I recently saw on examining the buds of a specimen in cultivation in the Naval Botanic Gardens at Brest. The leaves are rounded and of a glaucous, almost bluish, green. The four thick, fleshy sepals, borne upon a long coloured pedicel, are abruptly contracted ; the open and slightly revolute divisions are a yellow-green within, leaving the stamens exposed to view. C. Pitcheri begins to flower in May. 3. C. COCCINEA (Engelman),C.TEXENSis (Buckley). — Professor Buckley found this on the banks of rivers in Texas. Its flowers, which are larger than those of C. Pitcheri, are of a vermilion- carmine on the outside and yellowish within. These two forms of C. urnigera have been inter- crossed by MM. Morel, of Lyons, Paillet, of Chatenay (Seine), Otto Fra'bel, of Zurich, and the result has been the production of novelties pos- sessing a habit and flowers of remarkable diver- sity. 4. 0. RETiruLATA(Walt.). — C. reticulata, or pocket flower Clematis, is aUied to C. Viorna, and, like it, originated in Carolina and Georgia. It was intro- duced into Europe in 1812. 5. C. CYLINDRICA (Sims). — This blooms in June, and is apparently a link between the Viorna and integrifolia groups. It is distinguished by its flowers of a fine bright blue and by its crumpled sepals arranged cylindrically. Hence the name. Like all species of this group, cylindrica belongs to Northern America— Pennsylvania and Carolina — and was brought to Europe in 1802. 3. Integeifolia. This group comprises only a small number of species. Candolle in his " Prodnuuus '" only describes four — C. integrifolia, ochroleuca, ovata, and gentianoides. The last-named, which is a New Holland species, came to me from the Museum at Paris, and I classed it among the aristata group, or Australian Clematises. The yellow - flowered Clematis (ochroleuca, Ait.) appears as one of those in cultivation in Euro- pean gardens in Jacques' Manual, 184.5. I have no personal knowledge of it. Like C. ovata (Pursh.), its home is North America. Both are distinguished from C. integrifolia by their oval-shaped leaves. C. INTEGRIFOLIA (Linn. ). —This is the oldest known species (1596), and came originally from the Pyrenees, Hungary, Siberia, and Tartary, that is to say, Southern Europe and Northern Asia, two very ditt'erent geographical areas from the point of view of climate, a strange and rather exceptional fact. C. integrifolia is perennial like C. erecta, and has the leaves entire, dark green, oval-shaped, and slender. The handsome droop- ing dark blue flowers are borne upon one-flowered peduncles. It is cultivated in many gardens, and presents a certain number of varieties, notably — (1) a variety the leaves of which are sometimes entire and sometimes divided (C. integrifolia var. diversifolia) ; (2) a handsome hybrid known to commerce as C. integrifolia Durandi. This last is higher than the species, has larger flowers, and a long and recurving bloom. C. integrifolia has been used for crossing with other species, notably C. Viticella, whereby is derived the hybrid variety Hendersoni, which M. Decaisne has classed as a species under the name of C. Eriostemon. I had a correspondence on the sub- ject, in the course of which I related my observa- tions as regards this sub-frutescent, non-climbing Clematis, which I consider a true hybrid, of which the feathery seed-heads are nearly always sterile. 4. TUBULOSA. This forms an extremely natural group, characterised by strong, straight, and generally low stems, sub-frutescent and very leafy, the leaves being large, trilobed, and thick, the flowers small and in whorled spikes or cymes, with revolute sepals like those of the Hyacinth. About 1880 M. Decaisne and, subseipiently, M. Lavallee wrote a monograph on this little family of Asiatic Clematises, which belong rather to the realm of botany than to horticulture. M. Decaisne described eight species : C. tubulosa, Davidiana, Hookeri, Stans, Kousabotan, Sava- tieri, and Tatarinowi. I shall only speak of the three first species, which I know personally. 1. C. TUBirLasA (Turck.). — This Clematis origin- ally came from China and Mongolia (C. tubulosa mongohca), from whence it was introduced into Europe in 1837 by the Russian botanist Turck- zaninow. It is perennial, or rather sub-frutescent, with thick upright stems from 16 inches to 24 inches in height. The leaves are dark green, thick, and tough. The flowers are on a whorl and bell-.shaped, the colour azure-blue, of a deeper shade without than within. I have long culti- vated this spreading Clematis, and have found it quite hardy and interesting from its distinct growth and September bloom. 2. C. Davidiana. — This species was raised from seed sent from China to the Museum at Paris by the Abbt' David. It is aUied to the preceding by its foliage and its indigo-blue flowers in whorls. 3. C. HooKEKi (Dne.). — According to Hooker this is merely a variety of C. tubulosa. C. Savatieri is the only branching form of C. tubulosa, and never exceeds 4 yards or .5 yards in height. — Dk. Jules de Bele, in Bulkliti d' Horticulture de la Sarthe. (To he continued.) SOME USEFUL SUMMER-FLOWERING CREEPERS. When recently at Reading I was much interested in what might be termed a trial of summer-flower- ing climbers. The whole of them had been raised from seeds sown in the spring and planted out to flower. Amateurs with limited room and means are frequently found incjuiring what can be grown for covering bare places or for training up pillars. In the case of this trial a good portion of a south wall had been given up to the purpose. The various plants used had been planted long enough to have made a good start and some were already in flower. About 2 yards of wall are given to each ; so a good and reliable test is aflbrded. There was of course the Canary Creeper, and as there was ample space of wall, two or three patches had been planted alternating with other subjects. The plants had made a free growth and were just coming into bloom. Like the Mignonette and Sweet Pea, this charming species must find a place in every garden, for it is indis- pensable to the summer display. There was Lear's Convolvulus (Iporaa?a Leari), which, though classed among stove cHmbers, will yet with proper management flower well in the open air if it can have a warm sunny position and good soil. It was making a free growth despite storms and cold nights. .'\ portion was given up to the major Convolvulus, of which there are several handfome varieties. This is freijuently seen in gardens, but is not nearly so well cultivated as it deserves to be ; as a consequence the blossoms are small and the bloom short-lived. The old Mina lobata, now to be known as Ipora;va versicolor, was here also. It is well name d, because the blossoms, at first rosy crimson, change to orange ! and pale yellow. As it is not quite hardy it ' should not be put out in the open until warm .weather is assured. Maurandya B it clayana was I among them, and also another well-known species, M. scandens, formerly classed as Lophospermum. Both these can be raised from seeds readily enough for this purpose. They are half-hardy, bloom freely and for a consider ble time. Both are very useful in the garden, and should have I good cultivation. Then there is the Chilian Loasa lateritia, or, according to the seed cata- , logues, aurantiaca. This produces large dull red, ; attractive flowers. It can be raised from seeds i without difficulty, and is highly eftective when at j its best. Eccremocarpus (Calampelis) scaber is also indispensable. This is a hardy perennial in I the south, but of doubtful hardiness in the north, except in favourable localities. A little pro- tection to the roots during winter can be afforded without much trouble. It is a vigorous grower when established, the flowers are freely produced j in clusters, and, being gold and red, are very showy. It is a fine old and very popular climber, and can be raised from seeds sown in March. That form of the Hop known as Humulus japonicus and its variegated variety were also here, hardy, free-growing plants, which soon cover a consider- able space. The variegation on the variegated form is distinct and striking. Lastly came a patch of a bright crimson form of Tropieolum Lobbianum, which was blooming freely and help- ing the variety found in the collection. As so many of the foregoing can be raised from seeds, they are adapted to those with limited means. R. D. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— FLOWEB. Crepis sibirica.— The shade of colour given to tliis plant in a recent issue was duo to a clerical error, and is as stated originally by Mr. Wolley-Dod. — E. J. Double tuberous Begonias.— I have eight large beds planted out from seed saved from the finest and most erect Camellia - shaped blooms. The great point when selecting flowers to work from is to see that no drooping-habited varieties are used. My plan is to decide first shape, then colour and habit. — W. Baylor Hartland, Ard- Cairn, Cork. Nemesia strumosa Suttoni.— A large patch of this half-hardy annual I lately saw was very effective. This annual is not so suitable for growing in the form of individual plants as in a mass, therefore a large patch should be somewhat thickly sown, the result being a dense head of striking bloom. It is an annual that possesses a marked individuality of colour, and, though it loses its foliage quickly, the loss is not so notice- able when it is sown thickly. — R. D. Lathyrus coeruleus.— I am employing the modern but incorrect term " cu-ruleus " to indi- cate the beautiful blue form of Lathyrus sativus. It is found in some catalogues under the name of azureus, or as Lord Anson's blue Pea. We have few- annuals which give such a charming hue of blue as this Pea, but it possesses the fatal habit of some of the perennial Peas — the flowers speedilj- burn under the action of the sun. This Pea should be sown in the autumn and kept in safety through the winter to flower in spring to see it in all its beauty. — R. D. Blue Primroses.— It would appear that the Oakwood blue strain of Primrose comes very fairly true from seeds. .Judging from the naturally sportive nature of this flower, I was of opinion that not more than 2 per cent, of the seedlings would produce flowers of a true blue shade. I have seen several lots of plants this spring raised from purchased seeds, the produce being really satisfactory. It would appear likely, therefore, that in time quite 90 per cent, will come true. These blue Primroses are so distinct that they 1| July 1G, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 41 must eventually find their way into most gardens. —.J. C. B. Iris caroliniana. — Mr. Ley's description is correct as far as it t;oes, and liia plant is part of the original find. Mr. Baker's description of this species needs revision. It may be liotanically near I. versicolor, but from a garden |)oint of view it is a very distinct plant. It wanders, or pushes its growth further at the i-oots than I. versicolor, ljutlil;e that species seems as contented in dry, still' soil as in brackish water whore some- times found. I. caroliniana seems to be rather uncommon, was found first near Newbern, N.C., but has been lately discovered as far north as Southern Xow Jersey. — J. N. Gekrakd, Etizahilh, 2\tiv Jtrseif. Rose Garden. ROSES IN THE CiARDEN. Ai'ART from growing fine specimen blooms, tliere is a great field open to lovers of Roses grown in various ways simply as beautiful garden plants, and now in their rich profusion no one will decry their claim to universal popu- larity. Large old plants of Gloire de Dijon and other nearly related Teas, also Cheshunt Hybrid, William Allen Richardson, and some of the older Hybrid Perpetuals, as General .Jacciuemimit, Alfred Oolomb, and others equally well known, have been most beautiful with me, and the same is true of the pink Moss and Celine Forestier, which planted side by side flower about the same time and form a fine contrast to each other. Paul's Carmine Pillar was the first Rose to open, its rich colour and free-flowering nature making it a great favourite. Crimson Rambler will follow it closely, but though I am willing to admit this makes a fine show, it is certainly less beautiful in the open than under glass owing to the peculiar tint of the foliage. The copper and yellow Austrian Briers and the Penzance Sweet Briers, such as Lord Penzance, Meg Merrilies, and others, are showy and sweet, while the delicate flowers of the rugosa type are just at their best. There are a freedom and grace about these single and semi - double Roses that are lacking in the very double kinds, and though such as Belle Lyonnaise and Climbing Souvenir de la Jlalraaison have scores of buds upon them, the almost continuous rain has pre- vented their opening freely. The latter, as I have it here, is a fine climber, the flowers deeper in colour than in the old variety. Climbing Captain Christy, on the other hand, is a fine summer Rose, and very beautiful in its pale flesh tints. H. Rose Leda (Damask). ^It must be because it is not known that this pretty old Rose is so sel- dom seen. Years ago it was largely grown, but the introductions of the last twenty years have almost crowded out these old-fashioned kinds. Very few would refrain from adding Leda to their collection if they were to see it when well grown. Its flowers are of the peculiar crumpled form often seen in these old-fashioned sorts. The colour is blush-pink, and the petals are margined with rich lake. We have no prettier Rose in all the old-fashioned tribe than this, and it deserves a better fate. Polyantha Roses as dwarf standards. - These excellent miniature Roses, when budded upon hedge Briers from 12 inches to 18 inches high, make most lovely objects for standing singly upon the lawn or for planting in the centre of beds of this class. Perle d'Or when thus grown IS charming— indeed, all the tribe would be suit- able. Mme. E. A. Nolte, Gloire des Polyantha, Perle des Rouges, Anna Marie de Montravel trial in this way, and I am sure the desire would be to increase the number. It is so usual to see these Roses recommended for edgings to Rose beds, that one is apt to overlook the fact that there aro other ways of making them useful. — P. Rose Ma Surprise.— This was raised by M. (Juillot and was introduced about twenty-five years ago. It is undoubtedly the result of a cross between the Teas or Noisettes and Rosa micro- phylla, for although we have a suspicion of the peculiar Beech luit-like calyx of the type, the ilowers are as refined as those of any Tea Rose and sweetly scented. They are also of good size, quite 4 inches in diameter when expanded, double, and of a beautiful ivory-white shade, with salmon and peach-coloured centre. It is a good autumnal variety and grows with remarkable vigour, the growths greatly resembling those of the Teas. There is no variety amon^ these latter of the same mixture of colours, and I believe it would become popidar if more widely distributed. — P. Rose Dometille Becar (Gallica). — A striped Rose of the perfect globular form of an Alfred t'olomb is an acquisition. It is, of course, not so large as this grand variety, certainly not more than one-third the size, but large striped Roses are not wanted. The markings in this variety seem so refined ; there is none of the garishness of a Rosa Mundi about it, which to some indi- viduals is anything but pleasing. The colour of Dometille Becar is a delicate ivory-white, striped and splashed somewhat irregularly with clear rosy pink. It flowers freely and is a good grower, forming an interesting pillar variety. It is need- less to add that such a Rose well repays anyone who gives it a little more consideration as regards feeding with liquid manure than is usually afforded these summer Roses. Rosa fimbriata (hybrid rugosa). — One would take its flowers to be those of a finely-grown Dianthus were it not for the foliage. Its petals are not very numerous : usually about four rows compose the flower, but each petal is beautifully fimbriated, which is much accentuated by the edges of each one slightly turning upward. The outer row is almost pure white in colour, but the remainder are a dehcate blush. Surrounding the stamens are three or four imperfect florets of a rich carmine-pink, giving a most artistic finish to a very uncommon Rose. It is not so free-flower- ing as many of the R. rugosa forms, but no doubt plants of it trained in pillar form would yield a larger quantity of blossom. Its foliage is a re- freshing bright green and almost oval in form. It is said to be a cross between Rosa rugosa and the Tea Rose Mme. Alfred Carritre, and it certainly exhibits much of the latter variety in its lovely foliage. Combination of early-flowering Roses For all who can afford the space, large masses of one variety of Rose are always best, but where accommodation is limited, pretty effects may be secured by judiciously combining those kinds that flower simultaneously. As the centre to a good- sized bed, I would suggest about three or four extra strong plants of Carmine Pillar trained in pillar form, around these a circle of the hybrid Sweet Brier Amy Robsart, followed by circles respectively of hybrid Sweet Briers Anne of Geierstein and Lady Penzance, with another ring of the double white Scotch Rose, followed by yet another of Rosa ferruginea (syn., rubifolia), which would give an interesting band of coloured foliage if well cultivated. To complete the arrangement, a band of the Austrian Brier Harrisoni, followed by an edging of miniature Provence de Meau.x or Spong might be used. If the size of plant be regulated when planting according to its position in the bed, a pretty, interesting, and effective, almost conical, mass of blossom would enliven the garden during the early days of June. Rose Caroline Testout.— How is it that this Rose maintains its high reputation '! One is not particular!}' attracted to it when seen in the exhibition box among its more perfect neighbours. If form were to be the preeminent qualitj-, as Mosella, and Blanche Rebatel should be given a I some individuals would maintain, this variety would be a long way down the list, for it certainly cannot claim the regular outline of its great rival, La France. \'et the fact remains that in the garden it is rapidly superseding the old favourite. Tlie erect habit of the plant, the long Hower- stalk, the ex(|uisite bud, and the immense shell- like petals of the expanded flower all conduce to the undouliteil popularity of the variety. Another point worthy of consideration to all who retiuire ([uantities of cut flowers is that it is quite a week earlier than La fi'iance. By giving it a sheltered spot it might bo had ten days in adv.anne of other Hybrid Teas, and this would be of much import- ance in some establishments. The Americans are sending us a variety, named Mrs. Robert Garrett, which is to supersede Caroline Testout. If it does this it will have to bi; a wonderful Rose. Rose Gloire Lyonnaise (H. T. ).— As a garden Rose this possesses considerable merit. There is something peculi.arly attractive about its large expanded blossoms, they being not at all formal. In the bud state it is very lovely, the colour being pale lemon, and although not quite so refined in form as those of a Tea R,ose, these buds make very serviceable button-holes. The rigid growth and regular flowering of every shoot are all desirable qualities in a Rose for growing in masses. It, however, is not a variety one should plant in exposed positions, for it is a tender liind. The Brier is the stock for it, as it will not succeed at all on the Manetti, but it strikes freely from cuttings. This Rose is some- times seen upon walls, and has probably been planted there instead of the more rambling Belle Lyonnaise, with which it is often confounded. The mistake has often turned out a happy one, and I can most certainly recommend it as a semi- climber. The wood is of a reddish colour and but very few spines appear, the foliage rather small, of a rich green colour, combining to set off to the best advantage its beautiful blossoms. — P. Notes on early-blooming' Roses. — The warm sun of the early part of June has had an effect on these in two ways, namely, in bringing many kinds into bloom on warm walls, as also in causing a severe attack of fly. This can be kept in check by the use of some wash. The new insecticide called " Abol " is a step in the right direction. The cold winds had a bad eff'ect on the early-growing kinds in some situations, while in other positions they were untouched. During the last fortnight I have been cutting very nice blooms of Catherine Mermet from a south wall and from plants turned out of pots last .June. On the same wall the lovely L'Ideal is in bloom. Mme. Falcot claims a place. I doubt if there is another Rose that gives such lovely buds, and this over a long season. Early in June I cut fine blooms from the same position. Some four years ago I had a big plant of Reine Marie Henriette in a pot, and I resolved to plant it out at the foot of a south wall. It is wonderful how it has grown, and now (.June IG) it is a mass of bloom. Ches- hunt Hybrid growing on a north wall is also doing well. I never have had Reve d'Or bloom so freely as this year. Narcisse must have a word of praise as an early bloomer, and W. Allen Richardson is satisfactory on a sunny wall. — .J. CruuIv. The four best Penzance Sweet Briers. — That there is too great a sameness in these Sweet Briers must, I think, be admitted by all who have seen and grown the whole collection of si.xteen varieties. I think we may safely eliminate a dozen .and retain the four following. The first must always be Lady Penzance, for with the ex- ception of the Copper Austrian no single Rose is of .so lovely a colour. The second variety should be Anne of Geierstein. It is a very brilliant kind of the colour of the Hybrid I'erpetual Dr. Andry. It has two rows of petals, and is also a fine, strong grower, excellent for forming .a tall hedge. Either Air._v Kobsart or Rose Bradwardine must take the third place, and I am in favour of the former. It is also a fine, strong grower. The flowers consist of two rows of petals and are of the shade of deep rose seen in the Hybrid Perpetual Mme. Bois, 42 THE GARDSN. [July 16, 1898. As the fourth my selection would be Julia Man- nering. This variety has also two rows of petals of the most lovely pearly pink colour, so well exemplified in the Hybrid Perpetual Baroness Rothschild. Now what we require to make a good lialf dozen would be a rich velvety maroon and a pure white, and until these are given us I think the four varieties named will satisfy all tastes. Such Roses as these Hybrid Sweet Briers to be of real use should be efl'ective when seen at some distance ; , therefore for this reason I have excluded Lord Penzance, for, although distinct and pretty, it has only the appearance of a Dog Rose a few yards away from the plant. — P. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— ROSES. Rose Marie Pare. — This Rose appears to be- long to the Chinas or Monthlies rather than the Bourbons, with which it is classed. It is said to be a seedling from Mrs. Bosanquet, and r.his Murely is more a China Rose than a Bourbon. Whichever tribe it belongs to it is worth grow- ing, and is a most attractive and free-blooming Rose. The colour is clear flesh-pink, deeper in the centre, of medium size, and fairly double. It is a good grower, not, perhaps, so vigorous as its parent. Rose Camoens on dwarf standards. — This beautiful Monthly Rose (for such it really is in character, although belonging to the Hybrid Teas) makes a pretty show when budded on hedge Briers about 18 inches high ; its innumerable and pleasing pink buds and blossoms are so well dis- played in this form, and the quality is much superior. If a large mass were desired — and theie is no better Rose for the purpose— a few of these dwarf standards to break the flatness would make a charming effect. A dazzling^ crimson Rose. — I shall not soon forget the brilliant effect produced by a quantity of the China Rose Cramoisi Superieur, budded upon Brier cuttings, which I saw last autumn. It was evident the plants had been well cared for, and it proved that if some of our commonest Roses were cultivated with the same care as exhi- bition varieties, many a grand old sort would be hard to surpass, even by the more modern intro- ductions. Amid the thousands of Roses growing near this variety not one made the same gorgeous display as this fine old Monthly Rose. — P. Rose Dupuy Jamain. — This grand old Rose holds its own even against modern introductions. The lo\-ely smooth liowers are very fresh, of a clear cherry-rose colour. It is a distinct variety, with as good points as regards growth, free- flowering and freedom from mildew as any Hybrid Perpetual we have. It is one of the earliest to flower of this class and also one of the latest, and for the garden a better and more reliable Rose of its colour could not be named. It fully maintains the character of the red Roses in affording us the delightful fragrance for which they are noted. Rose Crimson Bedder (H.P. ).— This Rose cannot be compared with Martjuise de Salisbury and some of the crimson Chinas as a bedding variety, for it is not so continuous in flowering, but, nevertheless, it is very effective in early summer. It would appear to be a seedling from the old Rose Lord Raglan. It is very like it in its flat, crumpled blossoms, and the bright red flowers are similar in colour. The growth, how- ever, differs, for in Crimson Bedder it is moderate, and every shoot is crowned with flower-buds. As these are borne on good stiff stems, the effect is very brilliant. Rose Princesse de Monaco (Tea). — This lovely climbing Rose was introduced by M. Du- brieul, the raiser of Princesse de Sagan, Marquise de Vivens, Le Soleil, Francis Dubrieul, Perle H'Or, &c. One would take it for a highly-coloured Gloire de Dijon, but its outer petals are richly shaded with chamois and salmon-rose, which gives it a most distinct character. I should not recom- mend it in preference to Mme. Berard or Mme. Moreau, but where plenty of space is available DO one would regret adding this Rose to his col- lection. It must not be confounded with a dwarf Tea variety, Princesse Alice de Monaco. Rose Marie Robert (Noisette).— Pink chmb- ing Roses of good quality are none too plentiful, and I feel sure this variety, introduced by M. Scipion Cochet in 1894, will give satisfaction. To begin with, it has an elegant bud, of good length, and prettily recurved at edges of petals like Anna Ollivier. The colour is bright rosy pink, and as the flowers expand we have in the centre the rich salmon-rose tint so much admired in Pride of Waltham. Marie Robert is very free and continuous in flowering, and a pretty coat bud can always be obtained from it. It would make an excellent standard, and as a bush, if slightly pruned, it flowers very freely. The Dawson Rose. — One was pleased to see a favourable reference to this hybrid Rose in the valuable article on "Early-flowering Roses" in The Gardkn of June '25 (page 5.'53). It is, I understand, a hybrid between R. polyantha and (ieneral Jacqueminot, and partakes more of the former than the latter in its characters. Some of the dulness upon which "P." remarks seems to be due to the tendency it has to show white stripes upon its petals. It is not a very rapid grower here, but when it has assumed larger pro- portions I hope to be better pleased with this Rose than I have been. As it is, its early flower- ing and its fragrance make it valuable. — S. Aknutt, Curselhorii. hi/ Dumfries, N.B. New climbing Polyantha Roses. — These excellent little Roses for garden decoration, covering arbours, or for pillars are coming more to the front, and there have been recently some notable additions which will probably be much grown. Thalia, a pure white form which carries large, loosely - built clusters on long, straight stems, has all the appearance of proving an excellent subject for cutting ; its semi-double flowers, each a little larger over than a shilling, have the substance of petal that is needed for lasting well in water. Psyche is another novelty of much value, the flowers quite double and of the Crimson Rambler type, but the colour is a light and attractive pink. Diana is said to be a seedling from Crimson Rambler. Its flowers are very double, smaller than those of the parent, and white or very olightly tinted. — J. C. T. Rose Louis van Houtte (H.P.). — A variety of such a glorious rich crimson colour is worth extra care in order to obtain its grandly-formed, high-centred blossoms. It has a reputation, which I think partly unfounded, of being a very bad grower. It is true it is not over- vigorous, but let anyone bud it upon strong dwarf Briers planted in rich loamy soil, and there is no deep crimson variety to surpass it. I believe it resents trans- planting, and I have had the best success with it when the one-year-old plants were allowed to remain where they were budded for two or three years. After this period discard them and a fresh stock can be got ready to take their place. Many Roses of weakly growth would repay any- one to adopt this method of culture ; for instance. La Fraicheor, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, and Gus- tavo Piganeau. All answer to this treatment, and to those who are exhibitors the extra trouble involved will not be wasted. This Rose has the powerful fragrance of La France. — P. Rose Mme. Isaac Pereire and its sports or seedlings. — This splendid garden Rose, intro- duced by Margottin in 1880, appears likely to be the founder of a new race. It is evidently a hybrid Bourbon, for it possesses the grand autumnal flowering qualities of the Bourbons ; but, like many of the latter tribe, it is also good in early summer. Its colour is light carmine, very pleasing in its freshness ; flowers very double and slightly recurved. It is an abundant bloomer, and nearly every bud develops into a perfect flower. It is useful for massing, and altogether a fine garden Rose, but its centre detracts some- what from its usefulness as a show variety. As a standard no Rose is so suitable, as it makes a fine large head at once showy and vigorous, and it has a sweet fragrance. Mrs. Paul is the reputed offspring of this variety, and it appears very evident from the vigorous growth. It is, how- ever, distinct from its parent in blossom and colour. In this grand Rose we have a peculiar form, large open flowers like a Camellia, and lovely in the rosy peach shade of colour when young, but liable to lose in freshness when fully expanded. A more recent kind from the Conti- nent, and one that seems likely to come to the front, is Mme. Verrier Cachet. I believe it is a sport from Mme. Isaac Pereire, as it resembles it so much in growth and form of flow er. The colour, however, is several shades lighter. There is a per- ceptible rosy salmon hue in this Rose that should make it popular. — P. Garden Flora. PLATE 1179. THE ZONAL PELARGONIUM. (with a. coloured plate of mks. h. cannell.*) Where the old ideas of bedding exist in gar- dens, zonal Pelargoniums (Geraniums) play an important part because of their brilliancy and adaptability to almost any kind of soil. Few plants have undergone so many changes in fashion as have the varied types of this. At one time the rage was for variegated foliage, such as the tricolor, and I can remember how proud I was to possess a plant of that re- markable variety Mrs. Pollock. Huge trained plants of this and improved kinds of the type were considered skilful productions. Now one rarely meets with them as pot plants, and their riclily-coloured leaves are not very frequently noted in tlie flower garden. Then giant speci- men.s of the kinds valuable for their flower- trusses were a leading feature at most summer flower shows. This, too, at the present day seems to have become a lost art, judging from the poorly-grown plants mostly seen. But if the zonal Pelargonium has fallen off in these and other respects, its uses as a pot plant for the supply of bright flowers during the winter months are becoming more widely appreciated. Although one need not be without blooms throughout the year, their exquisite range of colouring appears with extra brilliancy when all is dull outside. Improved varieties, of which the coloured plate is a good example, bear very fine trusses of well-formed individual pips. Substance in the blooms is also remarkable, and the tints of colour are vivid as well as delicate. Zon.d Pelargoniums do not require any par- ticular mixture of soils. In fact, poor soil to my thinking is better than rich combinations. The latter tend to the growth of leaves at the expense of flowers. My compo.st for these ht all seasons is that which has done duty for other plants — Chrysantliemums and the like — and another most important item is to use com- jiaratively small pots. When root-bound they flower most profusely. Propagation from cuttings may be carried on at any time. I usually dibble in the cuttings among young Tomato plants at this time of the year, and later on uj3 to August root them in the open air, using for this purpose shallow boxes. For winter blooming, spring - struck plants are preferable. These may have two shifts until the final size of pot is of C inches diameter. This size is quite large enough, and for later-struck batches I would use a size smaller. Good drainage and firm potting are essential. Of course, when winter bloom is the aim, flower-trusses must be constantly * Drawn for The Garden iu Messrs. CdiiupH's nur.sery at Swauley by H. G. Moon. Lithographed and printed by J. L. Goffart. A M^s H CANNELL July IC, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 43 picked oil' up to tlio end of August. The plants may bo placed in the ojjon, stood on tiles or boards and rei^ularly watered. I'ineh the shoots occasionally to induce a bushy f.'rcjwth. I also thin the leaves so as to obtain stems of a well ripened character. Excellent Uinds for winter llowerinj^ are liaspail Improved (dark red), Ilerinino (white), (lustave Kinich (light red), Beaute roitevino (.salmon). This last is the same as one now repeatedly exhibited as King of lleninark. Like the otliers mentioned, this is doul)le, or rather serai-double, and there- fore not lial)le to drop when cut. Those hav- ing single blossoms are Albion (white), Charles Mason (scarlet), Enid (rosy red), Countess of Buckingham (pink), Herrick (scarlet), Kitty {soft red), Mile. Trine (rosy plum), Mrs. Pole Routh (salmon), Olivia (cerise), Phienna (shaded scarlet), T. \V. Lawton (salmon). With winter zonals one must guard against high feeding — that is, very little in the way of stimulants is needed. They require a dry atmosphere warmed to about 5."i' and plenty of light. Zonal Pelargoniums in summer like shade when in Hower under glass, but they want 2>lenty of air. Autumn-rooted plants will give zonal Pelargonium is most ell'ectivo for lilling large vases on terraces or such conspicuous spots near the house. In this instance t)ne must have large plants to begin with, and here is excellent use for the old stumpy specimens which jiroduced their fhjwers the previous year. Tliey should be cared for throughout the winter and kept into decent shape by timely tying and the removal of straggling shoots. .\11 the better if they have become root-bound. When planted int(j a free and amjile space for the roots in the spring, an become dry nor the outside ones either should there not be suiMcient rainfall to effect the purpose. Vineries M'ith the Grapes now fully ripe should be kept cool, so as to keep the fruit in good condition and free from shrivelling iis long as possible. To succeed with this it is a good plan to keep down the night temperature as low as possible during the warm weather, top ventilation at night, at least in a small degree, being the rule except during rainfall, so as to avoidany excess of moistureandits precipitation upon the berries in the morning, as the temperature rises without any ventilation. If fire-heat be used, let it be during the day after the fruit is ripe, and only then when it may perchance he dull and disposed towards a humid atmosphere. Up to the completion of ripening continue to employ fire-heat if need be to keep up the tem- peratures advised with a little ventilation. Should a large house of l irapes with a plentiful supply of fruit need to be kept over a prolonged period, it will bo advisable to lightly shade the roof on the outside with whitening or with flour. The latter is used now in preference to the former, as it does not wash off so readily during the first downpour of rain. Remove it, however, immediately the fruit is all cut. Late (!ra[)es and Muscats will, with the comparatively cool period wo are now- passing through, need the continuance of fire-heat. Whilst this is being written the outside tempera- ture is 48°, and tliis is not by any means the lowest that has recently been recorded. On the other hand we have had sudden bursts of warmth, but not of long duration, hence it behoves those in charge of the fires to use all needful discretion, and thereby regulatethe temperatures accordingly. During hot weather I never mind if the nightly readings are a little below the mark ; they afford in some measure a period of rest and recuperation against the trying efl'ects of very hot days. The latest Grapes should have some indications of colouring evident by the end of this month, other- wise there will not be time for them to throughly mature, not only in colour, but also in sweetness, before the days perceptibly shorten. Continue to keep all superfluous growth thinned out so that by the time colouring does commence there is not much need of any attention in this respect. Late Grapes are oftentimes disposed to grow away too strongly late in the season. This growth needs to be checked or modified by careful stopping and pinching rather than by the removal of fully developed shoots and leaves in quantity at one time. There may possibly be an occasional berry or two that needs removal, too, before any further advance is made. If so, let this have attention at once, and at the same time lightly and carefully lift the shoulders of those bunches which may have become interwoven with the berries below, then as the final process of swelling goes on the bunches can expand, causing the shoulders to rise without hindrance. YouNo Vines, or those planted this year, should be encouraged to make all the growth possible between now and the end of August. To attempt to grow on young Vines without fire- heat is not advisable, especially in a season like the present. In all such vineries the atmosphere should ba kept moist and congenial to growth, the house being, as it were, treated similar to a stove in this respect as to closing, but with a little more ventil.ation during the day. Opinions differ as to the best methods of treating young Vines as regards the extension or the curtailment of the growth. I am disposed to favour exten- sion, and so long .as the roof is not unduly crowded do not practise thinning even of laterals. I have adopted the plan, and with advantage, of allowing the main rods only to be tied to the wires, all the Lateral growths hanging down below the wires. By this means the new rods which are permanent receive all possible benefit, whereas it is probable some may not do so when the laterals are radiating in all directions upon the trellis at the same level. It tends thereby to the swelling up of the young rods and their earlier maturity too. Should any grower be troubled with a drop- ping of the young leaves on recently planted Vines, and at the extremities of the shoots in particular, with a pale brownish colour and a tendency towards a glossy appearance, it may be put down as the work of a species of spider, of which we are by no means confined to that known as the red spider. This gave me trouble once when a range was newly planted ; therefore I know what a nuisance it is. At first the presence of an insect was not suspected, the le.aves dropping in a mysterious manner whilst still small. But upon a close inspection it could be seen wh.at really was the cause, the insect in question being present in sufficient numbers to account for it. Being so minute it may be passed over ; in fact, when the leaves so affected were pointed out to some people they did not notice its presence. With the aid, however, of a magni- fying glass it may easily be detected. The remedy 44 THE GAEDEN. [July 16, 1898. I employed was soot only, and it was most ett'ec- tual. The means adopted for its application was done by putting some soot into small bags, as seed bags, tying them tightly and then sinking them in the water tanks from which the water for syringing was taken. A gallon of soot in a 100-gallon tank would last thus for weeks in an effective condition. What is needed is to extract the better qualities of the soot, not its actual colour, as some most erroneously suppose, and therefore stir the bag about for that purpose. This very minute form of spider is a most in- sidious pest, and one that should be stopped by the means indicated in an early stage, otherwise the leading shoots are oftentimes crippled for the rest of the season. HoRTUs. KITCHEN GARDEN. Cropping the land. — This will now be important in this department, as much depends through the next month on the crops next winter and early spring. Of course a great deal depends upon the land and present crop, as often many shifts have to be made to forward the winter crop. At the present date there is a great scarcity of available land for these crops owing to the season being a backward one, and in many gardens one is obliged to use the land for crops that are not always the most suitable. For instance, any of the Brassicas should not follow the same family. At times it is unavoidable, and here I would advise deep digging previous to planting, and if a dressing of artificial manure can be given, so much the better. Cauliflowers may follow early Potatoes, but as the Cauliflower to be good needs ample food it is essential to manure liberally for this crop. The land now planted with Cauliflowers will be in fair condition for roots that do not need rich soil, such as Parsnips and Beets. The land if given a winter dressing of lime or burnt refuse and turned up roughly will be in condition for the root crop. JVIany who have cleared the land of Broad Beans, Spinach, and Turnips may plant Kales, Broccoli and Brussels Sprouts. For the last I find the Spinach quarters suitable, and in poor soil food may be given, as the Brussels Sprouts take much out of the soil if allowed to attain size and remain till next spring. Brussels Sprouts also do well after early Potatoes, and I would advise deep digging or forking in addition to the lifting of the tubers. I find Onion beds a suitable spot for the spring Cabbage. Give lime freely if at all neces- sary, as though the work in the garden is now so pressing, it is labour well laid out to free the ground of pests that prey upon the tender plants at a season it is impossible to gi\'e remedies. I am now clearing off the Strawberry plants that have borne fruit, burning the plants, dry litter, and weed growth that accumulated during the season and planting Broccoli. Drills are drawn at 2 feet apart. The ground is not dug, it having been heavily manured and double dug for the Strawberry crop. Coleworts do well on the borders that have been cleared of the first early Potatoes, these being planted closely. A nice open piece of land should be reserved for sowing Lettuce next month. Many sow this crop on a sheltered border. The plants often suff'er more from being crowded than if given room and grown as hardy as possible. I sow this crop, winter Onions, and late Turnips in a fully exposed position to get the best results. Much the same remarks apply to late Celery ; the more open the position the hardier the plants. Gathkuing vegetables. — Few would advise as to gathering, thinking it such a small matter, but on this point much depends, as the plants if not gone over frequently do not produce the best results. Even though the produce may not be needed at the moment, if left it spoils the growth of others, and tlie plant fails to produce freely. Take French Beans. These are often left on the plants much too long, as the skin hardens and soon loses flavour. The best results are obtained when the pods are gathered young and cooked whole, this allowing the plants to give better crops. Vegetable Mar- rows are much best cut in a young state. The plants crop much better if the Marrows are gathered regularly. Cauliflowers at this time of year soon expand, and once they lose that com- pact build they are of poor quality. Far better cut and store in a cellar in a moist place than leave on the plants if the weather is hot. Roots of any kind growing in a shallow soil need more moisture than those in shade, so that in growing for summer use long-rooting kinds are most suit- able. I have found that vegetables gathered during the hottest part of the day from light soils do not keep so well as those gathered early in the day, so that if needed to be sent long distances this is an important point. Mere size in vege- tables is no criterion as to quality, and this should be borne in mind where the best are valued. YoiTxG Carrots. — From October to April the root-store usually provides Carrots, and they are at times large and none too good as regards quality. To keep up a regular supply of small, tender roots it is well to sow this month and not store, but draw as needed. Of course in heavy, clayey, wet soils this is not an easy matter, and in such it would be well to prepare a bed with lighter materials, such as road scrapings, old refuse soil, or anything that lightens. I have found burnt refuse excellent. In cold places it would be well to sow early, but in the south, in light soil, I have obtained excellent results from sowing in August. Wireworm and slugs are very destructive, and these must be cleared previous to sowing, using lime freely, and in badly in- fested ground I find gas-lime the best insecticide. For use at the season named, such kinds as Jlodel, Early Gem, or Early Nantes are excellent, and 'n very severe weather it is an easy matter to cover a portion of the (juarter with litter, so that the roots may be lifted without damage. I sow in an open position. This sowing gives tender young roots well into April, as if lifted in March and laid in in a cool place they keep sound for some weeks. If sown fairly thick it is well to thin early, but not severely, as these roots do not attain a large size. Turnips for winter. — The summer has been a good one for these. I never remember so few failures, and it now behoves us to prepare for later supplies. I am aware in the south it is full early for sowing, but not in late districts, and I find it advantageous to make two sowings, one now and another a month later, as by so doing there is no lack of tender roots. Should the autumn be warm the roots at times become large and coarse, and do not keep well ; indeed, in my opinion coarse roots are not worth storing. This is my reason for sowing some three weeks later, as roots the size of a cricket ball are large enough for winter use. The land for winter Turnips needs good culture. Manure (well decayed) sliould not be absent, and I do not think it is well to place the food out of the reach of the roots, as in dry seasons it will support the crop at a time the roots are swelling ; it also assists in rapid germi- nation, a necessity with this crop in dry seasons. Turnips are not nearly so tender as supposed, and the roots are not injured by a few degrees of frost. For years I have not lifted till December, but have taken the precaution to mould up late in October, this preserving them till the latter date. In mild winters in well-drained soil, they may be left in their growing quarters all the winter. It may be asked why risk the crop when they may be stored in October ; simply because the roots so soon deteriorate in a warm store, as they grow out badly and lose flavour. For late autumn supplies Criterion and Swan's Egg are splendid types. These do well in most soils. In land infested with insect pests I would advise a dressing of lime and soot ; failing this, wood ashes and lime are a splendid fertiliser. So far I have found no Turnip superior to Red Globe for keeping. It is a very solid root, and remains sound for months The yellow varieties should not be overlooked ; indeed, such as Yellow Per- fection and Golden Ball are our best winter Turnips, needing less protection and being re- markably sweet and good well into the new year. For leaving in the soil to provide green tops, a sowing of the latter kinds or Chirk Castle ia most useful. These will not need so much room as the earlier roots. These should be from 15 inches to 18 inches apart between the rows to allow of cleaning and working between. With ample room the roots are harder and keep better. SPIN.4CH. — There is a good demand for this during September and the following month, and to provide a good supply without unduly trenching on the winter sowing it is well to sow now. In very hot summers the seed sown now does not always germinate so readily as one might wish, but this occurs more often in poor soil. I find it well to thoroughly manure for this special autumn crop, as the return from land well done is so great that it is worth a little extra trouble to build up an autumn supply. I am now sowing on land that has been cleared of early Peas, well dressing the ground with decayed cow manure. Avoid thick sowings, or if at all thick thin freely to get strong leafage. A distance of 18 inches between the rows will be none too much, and in land troubled with wireworm give liberal dressings of soot and lime ; indeed, I also give a liberal dress- ing of wood ashes or burnt refuse on the surface previous to sowing the seed, and in the winter when the winter crop is ready the land that has produced a late autumn supply is dug over deeply, the roots dug in, and in the spring it is in good condition for a root crop that does not need fresh manure. Land for the main winter and spring supply should now be prepared, as it is important to clear out wireworm and other pests by exposure previous to sowing early next month. Lettuce. — By sowing a good variety of Lettuce at this date there will be no break in the supply. A quick grower will be suitable. I find a medium-sized Lettuce the best for sowing after this date. Large sowings are not needed, far better sow every fortnight for the next two months than make one or two sowings to have a glut of material at one time. Golden Queen is a very beautiful Lettuce for early autumn supplies. I admit it is very tender and will not stand frost, but it will be used before the weather is at all cold, as it is a very quick grower and of the best quality. Tom Thumb is a small grower and very sweet. If a larger is needed the Neapolitan is- good. Of Cos varieties, Sutton's Intermediate is the liest small autumn Cos I have grown, and invaluable, as it is very hardy. I have had this good well into December. Hick's Hardy Cos and Bath are good, the latter for latest sowings. By sowing now and again as advised, Lettuce may be had good all through the autumn. The seedlings will now lift readily. I find they do well on the Celery trenches. Ground should be prepared for the autumn sowings, and if quantities are needed in the spring it is well to be liberal with the space. Give an open position and do not omit to use lime, soot, or other aids to dress the land, to kill slugs and wireworm previous to sowing the seeds. S. M. Acaljrphas. — Though Acalypha Sanderiana is the only species to claim recognition from a floral point of view, the introduction of such a start- ling novelty as this has directed a considerable amount of attention to the entire genus, and cer- tainly the beauty of their foliage entitles some of them to a prominent place among this class of plants. The latest addition to ornamental leaved Acalyphas is A. Godseffiana, which, like the flowering species above mentioned, was collected in New Guinea by Micholitz. In A. Godseffiana the blade of the leaf is 5 inches to 0 inches long and plain green in tint, with a particularly clear cream-coloured margin, varying in width from a quarter to half an inch. In the mature foliage the extreme edge of the leaf, that is, the serrated portion, has just a suspicion of pink. It is of good free growth and its clear, fresh variegation renders it a decided acquisition. Another form in which the marking is limited to the edge of the leaf is A. marginata, in which the ground colour is a kind of bronzy olive with a clearly defined margin of rosy carmine. There are several other July 1G, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 45 forms, and in some of them tlie loavos show a curious l)loiiilinif of various shades and colours. This is particuhirly noliceablo in A. tricolor, also known as A. Wilkt'siaiui and A. musaica, and when well jjrown and coloured they are particu- larly useful for various decorative purposes; the fact that thoy are readily propagated and quickly attain an ell'octivo size boin;; greatly in their favour. During hot summers they are very useful in the mixed beds now so popular, but if the season is wet and cold they are, as with several other subjects, i[uite inelfeclive. Most of tliese fine-foliaged Acalyfihas were introduced within the dozen years following ISGli, and that being just the period when this class of plants was so popular, they were soon in general cultivation. To obtain good coloured specimens they need to bo treated much as C'rotons, that is, fully exposed to a fair amount of sunshine. Red spider is sometimes apt to be troublesome, hence frequent syringing should be given to keep it in check. — T. Kitchen Garden. AUTUMN PEAS. In the northern jjarts of the country there is less ditticulty in getting a good supply of Peas in autumn ; but this should not deter growers from getting a fair return in less favoured localities. Locality is not always at fault, as in many gardens the soil, being light, does not suit a late crop of Peas. For many years when there was a much smaller variety of Peas to choose from the kind mostly grown was Ne Plus Ultra, an excellent sort still difficult to beat. Even this fails in poor soil on gravel or on chalk. For latest supplies I have more faith in the dwarfer growers, but even then I would advise a strong growing kind. These have more rooting power and are not so readily aft'ected by drought and mildew. It may not be necessary in gardens wliere autumn Peas thrive to study variety, and where this is the case the grower is fortunate. We have some very excellent kinds to select from, as of late considerable attention has been paid to the raising of dwarfer kinds with a longer pod and of better quality. Some growers tight shy of new varieties, and only recently I was told that American Wonder was good enough for anyone. In its day it was an advance in the right du'ection, but we now have kinds so much superior that no one who studies quality and quantity need grow the one re- ferred to. I am not decrying any kind, however old, but as my object is to get the best results in the autumn much heavier crops can be secured from plants with more vigour. Those who like the very early dwarf kinds will find Chelsea Gem all thoy desire. This is much better than American Wonder, and what makes it so useful it is an excellent variety for present sowing in light soils if due attention is paid to the plants in their early stages. A variety which does grandly with me oa poor land is Daisy ; in fact, I consider this the best second early Pea and the best late variety, as its strong- growing haulm, dwarf compact growth, and great quantity of pods make it doubly valuable. This Pea is the result of crossing Stratagem with a giant Marrow, and is certainly one of the best we have yet got. May Queen is another of the new varieties specially fine for autumn sowing, and, like the one named above, is •equally good for early supplies. The plant is dwarf. With me it rarely exceeds 2 feet and it has a full Marrow flavour, and in comparison to its height it bears a large pod. This is as early as the small round varieties, upon which I place little value. Sown in June, it will be ready early in September. I prefer to sow the first week in July on a cool ))order .and get .a later supply. Another good autumn variety is Early (iiant. This does not jiroduce the quan- tity of ])ods witli me whicli IMay (,lueen does, but in heavier land 1 saw this variety so good that I niust briefly note its value. For many years I grew Sturdy for latest supplies, but it is now eclipsed by tlio.se noted above. In a light soil Sturdy is n(]ne too vignrous, and this tells against it in hot, dry seasons. In the north on heavy land Sturdy does well. Last year I grew The Michaelmas Pea, a variety I saw in splendid condition in the Royal Horticultural Society's Gardens at Chiswick a few seasons ago. In growth this is not unlike Stratagem, but the pods are blunter and the Peas remark- able for their green colour and excellent table quality. The INIichaehnas grows 2 feet to .'{ feet in height and is well worth room in all gardens where late Peas are valued. Stratagem sown now is excellent for autumn. The great diffi- culty I have had with tall varieties at the sea- son named is that they mildew so badly. Chelsonian is also an excellent variety. This newer introduction is most prolific and with me is superior to Ne Plus Ultra, as it branches more freely. It attains a height of 0 feet. I am not in favour of the tall Peas when a dwarfer section may be planted closer and give a heavier return. I grow the Clielsonian for August supplies. A variety half way between the tall and dwarf kinds of recent introduction is a new one named Continuity, a very tine type and bearing large joods, strong, dark green haulm, and free of mildew. During a dry autumn it made excellent progress and is rightly named Continuity, as it bore very heavy crops until late in the season. Much depends on culture as to the progress the plants make during the earlier stages of their growth, and in gardens where aut:umn Peas fail it is well to give special attention in the way of food at the roots. In light soils on gravel or chalk failures will occur unless food is given. I have adopted various means, and one may at times give soil of a heavier nature. I do not mean clay, but a holding soil. I like the dwarf strong growers, averaging '2 feet to 3 feet, because they have less haulm. Though I have to plant closely on account of space at command being limited, by making trenches or deep drills there is a fair return. I give several inches of good rotten manure from the cow yard, and this dug into the bottom of the trench will build up and sustain the plants in dry weather. With trenches or deep drills it Ie an ea.sy matter to give moisture, and in the hot weather from the end of July to September a mulch over the soil of strawy manure with a copious supply of water once a week will keep growth active. I place much importance on mulching in poor soils if the weather is hot and dry, and advise thin sow- ing to get a strong plant. G. Wythes. Pea Earliest Marrow. — Whether this variety can claim the title given it against so many of more recent introduction I cannot determine, as only a representative trial of early sorts would settle the point. However, that does not matter very much to the general reader. The above- named sort may be chosen with advantage as a companion to others of the early section, whether marrow or round. It is hardy, a very free bearer, and grows onlj' about ."! feet high. For an early kind, the pods and Peas are of good size and of excellent flavour. This is particularly notice- able in a raw state. With me this season it is quite as early as the early rounds, which are reduced now to one small sowing, as the early marrows are hardy, equally as produc- tive, and certainly better when cooked. I have grown Earliest Marrow now for several year.9, and the longer the acquaintance the stronger do the claims of the variety appear. The severe winterly weather experienced in March did much damage to the early I'eas, but they came through the ordeal well, and their later growth left no suspicion of the EN. 49 tlie fittest "the best is the present species. I have not had experience with it in districts more un- favourable to tender plants than the London one, but here it is perfectly hardy. Not even the early part of ISit.'i, when the thermometer was fre- quently nearzero.allected itin the least. Durinj^the latter parbof.lune.and nowin.Tuly.itis perhapathe showiest of hardy shrubs. Its flowers areof the purest white and cacii about .'i inches across. Every morning a fresh crop of them rolies the plant anew. There is a rare and beautiful variety called maculatus, in which the base of each petal is marked with a large blotch of crimson. The species is evergreen and has largo dark green leaves, covered with a viscid substance above and with a pale brownish felt beneath. It is a native of South-west Europe ; still it ripens seed in this country in plenty. For rather dry banks that are not easy to furnish satisfactorily with tall ever- greens it proves specially valuable. It will grow from U feet to 8 feet high, and although liable to become bare at the base through age, it can so easily be replenished or renewed by means of seed that this constitutes but a slight disadvantage. pure white sepals and netals of fine form and sub- tance. The large DeautifuUy fringed lip is Societies and Exhibitions. ii( H.I' ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. .ToLV 1-2. Tme remarkable display of plants, flowers, and fruit on Tuesday last must be pronounced an unqualified success. The show was well- nigh replete in every particular, and upon this occa- sion enhanced by the lovely display of Roses. We cannot refrain from mentioning the remark- able blooms staged by Mr, Orpen in every class. Finer or better coloured flowers have in all proba- bility never been staged at this or any other meeting. Hardy flowers, though less numerous than at .some previous meetings, were abundant, and among them a notable collection of Lilies from Messrs. Wallace, of Colchester. Sweet Peas abounded, some four groups alone of these being set up, while eating Peas, as befitted the lecture arranged for the afternoon, came also in consider- able ijuantity. Carnations of the Malmaison section were again to the front, Mr. Martin Smith having many good things. Novelties were rat her numerous, and the floral committee, before whom a large number of exhibits came, sat to a late hour. Orchids were in the minority, while Ferns in their infinite shades of green on a hot July day were also restful to the eye. In the afternoon visitors were numerous. Fruit was very prominent, a fine collection, of which Her Majesty was the exhibitor, being staged by Mr. Ovpen Thomas. Cherries, Peaches, Melons, Strawberries, Tomatoes, kc, in many leading kinds being well represented. The Messrs. Veitch likewise contributed abundantly of Cherries, in pots and also gathered, as well as Strawberries. Orcbid Committee. A silver Banksian medal and cultural com- mendation were awarded to Mr. H. Hicks, Bran- wood, Chelmsford, Essex, for a remarkable speci- men of Dendrobium Dearei, with growths each upwards of 3 feet in length. It had eleven flowering growths with thirteen expanded spikes of bloom, several others being in V)ud. Several of the spikes had ten flowers each. The plant had been grown in an ordinary stove for the last four years. It was undoubtedly the finest specimen we have seen. Sir Trevor Lawrence was awarded a Botanical certificate for Oncidium albo-verrucosum, a pretty form, in growth resembling Odontoglossum cris- pum. The flowers are produced on dense spikes, each about 2 feet in length, the sepals rich yellow, the petals yellow, with dark brown blotches at the base, the broad three-lobed lip rich yellow, with an indistinct bar of brown at the base in front of the raised white disc. Messrs. H. Low and Co. sent a small collection of choice Orchids. The most prominent was Cattleya Gaskelliana alba, a lovely variety with white with rich orange-yellow through the throat. Another light form was also included. This had blush sepals and petals with a slight tint of rose in the centre of the lip. The plant carried three spikes of flowers with three flowers each. A good form of C. Warscewiczi, Cypripedium T. W. Bond (Curtisi X hirsutissimum), having the inter- mediate characteristics of both parents : and C. Alice (Spicerianum X Stonei), in which the dorsal sepal is white sull'ased with rose, slightly spotted with small jiurplespots, the |ietals greenish-yellow, spotted and suffused with deep brown, were sent. Bulbophyllum claptonense has the dorsal sepal yellow, netted with transparent white, the lower sepals yellow at the base, shading to white at t;he apex, the refiexed petals yellow at the base, with a lighter apex, the lip white, shading to purple at the base. A grand form of Odontoglossum citros- mura and a very large form of Dendrobium I)al- housianum were also included. Mr. W. Bull, King's Road, Chelsea, sent Oncidium macran- thum chelseaense, a pretty form, with darker sepals than usually seen in the type. Mr. .J. W. Temple, Leyswood, Tunbridge Wells, sent a large group consisting wholly of specimen plants of Cattleya Warscewiczi (gigas) remarkably well grown, the flowers being fine in substance and in various shades of colour, many of the scapes having as many as six blooms. The group was very tastefully arranged with Asparagus and Ferns. A silver Flora medal was awarded. Sir F. Wigan sent Cattleya Warscewiczi Rothschild- iana, a pretty dark form, without the usual yel- low discs in the throat. Baron Schm-der sent a form of Odontoglossum crispum of the O. crispum Lebmanni type. Sir T. Lawrence showed Vanda Miss Agnes Joaquim, having a raceme of fifteen flowers and buds. In this the sepals are pale rose, the lower ones nearly white, the flat petals deep rose, the front of the lip deep rose, shading to purple, suffused with brown and shading to white at the base, the whole being spotted with small rich brown and purple spots, the side lobes rich purple, shading to amber at the base. The plant received a first-class certificate last year. A cul- tural commendation was awarded on this occasion. Floral Committee. The following plants obtained first-class certifi- cates : — AsPLENiCM ORNATUM. — This is a graceful and distinct as well as elegant plant, with dark green, shining, well-divided fronds, the elongated linear segments frequently twice and thrice divided, and, so to speak, lacerated to a considerable depth. It is an acquisition. From Mr. H. B. May, Dyson's Lane Nurseries, Edmonton. PicE.v pu.NCEXs iiLAri'.v PENDLi.A. — A very striking and beautiful drooping form of the Colorado Spruce, standing nearly 0 feet high, the pendent branches having an exceedingly heavy glaucous blue tone. From Messrs. Koster and Co., HoUandia Nurseries, Boskoop, Holland. Awards of merit were given to the following: — Carnation Nell Gwynne. — A pure white of the Malmaison type, the flowers not so large as usually seen, probably on account of the more natural growth. From Mr. James Douglas, Bookham, Surrey. Carnation Mrs. Martin Smith. — A large and handsome flower of the Malmaison type, in which the colour is a good clear rose-pink, a shade or s ) darker than in the well-known Duchess of Fife. From Mr. Martin Smith, Hayes, Kent. Carnation Calypso. — Also a Malmaison kind of the largest size, the colour a very distinct blush, shaded pink. From Mr. Martin Smith. Rose Perle des Roi'ges. — An exceedingly dwarf and richly-coloured member of the Poly- antha section, the colour a distinct glowing crim- son-velvet. From Messrs. Wm. Paul and Son, Waltham Cross. Carnation Spndridiie. — A very handsome self coloured scarlet kind of a rich glowing shade and very fine form. It is a border kind of rather tall habit. From Mr. F. Tapper, Sundridge Park. Edith Tirxer. — An addition to tie group, the flowers full and possessing some- what of the recurving petals of La France, while the colour is of a soft and delicate blush-pink shade. From .Mr. C. Turner, Slough. Sweet Pea .Viikdra.— A very good and well formed flower, the standards nearly ovate and of large size, the varying shades of scarlet and orange-scarlet being waved over a light ground, the latter well-nigh hidden where the deeper shade prevails. From Mr. F. G. Foster, Havant, Hants. Sweet Pea (Jolden' Gate.— The name here given is a misnomer, the prevailing shade of colour being shades of violet, mauve and blue. The form is good and the Mowers freely borne. From Mr. F. G. Foster, Broekhampton Nurseries, Havant. PoLYSTICHrjI annulare X AfCILEATUM. — Tllis, as may be imagined, has jiroduceda very striking and remarkable form, in which the latter parent is abundantly clear. There is also much of the P. aculeatum type in the rough hoary character of the rachis and fronds generally^ the latter being from ik feet to 3 feet in length. In the hardy fernery" this should prove most effective. From Mr. W. Marshall, Auchinraith, Bexley. Messrs. R. Wallace and Co., Colchester, brought a fine display of Liliums, perhaps the most com- plete collection of these flowers ever seen at one exhibition, and which included some twenty-four varieties. Among the most prominent were Boezli, dalmaticum, Wa^hingtonianum, pardalinum, eali- fornicum, the lovely Henry i. Parry i, with rich golden flowers, Browni, Hansoni, canadense, Szovitzianum, Martagon album, speciosom album novum, with pure white flowers, and the lovely Humboldti magnificum, with its Ijroad segments, heavily spotted and completely recurved. Be- sides these there were many beautiful forms of Thunbergianum and umbellatum, together with Calochorti in variety and other beautiful things (bronze Banksian medal). Malmaison Carnations were again well exhibited by Mr. Martin Smith, Hayes, a large half circular group being simply a mass of the lovely flowers. Two varieties recei ved awards on this occasion, one of them, Mrs. Martin Smith, being in strong force in this group; indeed, the latter was largely composed of this kind, with Calypso, and such as Lady Grimston, The Geisha, Lord Welby, Mrs. Trelawny, &c. The yellow border kind Cecilia was also in fine form (silver-gilt Banksian). Another group of Malmaisons came from Mr. Daniel Cooper, Warren Tower, Newmarket (gardener, Mr. Thos. Young). This lot was mostly of the blush and ]iink kinds, the plants being finely grown and well flowered throughout. A fine batch of Carna- tions, mostly of the Malmaison type, came also from Mr. James Douglas, Edenside, Bookham, the most prominent being Nell (iwynne (pure white). Prime Minister, Lady Grimston, together with such as Mrs. James Douglas, Rich- mond (fine white). Elfin (white, large flaked jietal), Trumpeter (scarlet, very good), andother.s. Mr. George Reynolds, gardener to Messrs. de Rothschild, had a very striking flower called Mrs. L. de Rothschild, a carmine rose shade, very tell- ing and quite distinct, the plants bold and hand- some and of great vigour. The Duke of Marl- borough (gardener, Mr. Whillans) showed among other-Ta fine scarlet called Oxford Yeoman ; tho plant of this is fully 6 feet high, the colour very fine. Sweet Peas were shown in great numbers as well as variety by at least four of the leading growers, and though arranged in various parts of the hall made a fine display. In the Messrs. Cannell's lot some seventy-two varieties were staged, the colours endless, and the varieties in many instances of considerable promise (silver Banksian medal). Mr. Eckford, Wem, Salop, likewise had a very large display, this including many novelties, such as Lady Skelmersdale, white and purple : Bouverie, salmon-bronze with pink ; Lady Mary Currie, brilliant carmine : Mrs .Joseph Chamberlain, white and scarlet : and Fas- cinator, purple-blue and bronze (silver Bank- sian medal). Mr. F. G. Foster, Bro.khampton 50 THE GARDEN. [July 16, 1898. Nursery, Havant, also had a tine lot, mostly new kinds, among which Aurora, Golden Gate, Sensa- tion, Oriental, Modesty, delicate pink, Dolly Varden, Stella Morse, deep primrose-yellow, Colonist, soft lilac, Lady Grisel Hamilton, lavender, very pretty, were distinctly noticeable (silver Flora medal). A small group of the dwarf sorts of Cupid in pots came from Mr. N. N. Sherwood, Dunedin, Streatham Hill, the ]ilants nicely flowered. Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Chel- sea, filled a long table with annuals and biennials in very great variety, such things as Rhcdanthe in variety, Bartonia auiea, the pretty Platystemon californicum, with its yellow blossoms ; Godetia Whitneyi, a very showy kind with rosy - red flowers of large size : Linarias, many beautiful Poppies, Marguerite Carnations, lovely Canterbury Bells in many colours, Venidium calendulaceum. Lupins, Oxy- ura Douglasi with Marguerlt -ike jellow blos- soms, Limnanthes Douglasi, Phacelia campanu- laria, the most charming bit of blue imaginable. Cornflowers, grasses, and other things, the same firm contributing groups of Richardia Rehmanni, soft rose spathes, Cjtitus nigricans, Rubus cana- densis rosea. Spiraea bullata (crispifolia), and others, the whole forming a very effective and pretty group. Messrs. J. Carter and Co., High Holborn, had a fine display of choice Delphiniums, bold towering spikes being arranged in a very liberal manner along the back, while a large assortment of the choicest Sweet Peas arranged in Oriental bowls was greatly admired. These bowls were about 8 inches or 9 inches across and about 4 inches deep, the sprays of blossom being lightly arranged throughout, thus making a very pleasing display of these useful flowers, for which a silver Banksian medal was awarded. The Ferns from Mr. H. B. May, Edmonton, on this occasion consisted of a collection of sixty-fivo species and varieties of Aspleniums, a few of the best being ornatum, cicutarium, elegantissimum, Colensoi, divaricatum, laxum pumiUim, Herbsti, a bold, shining-leaved kind, &c., and tine flower- ing examples of Exacum macranthum, with lovely heads of the richest royal purple on plants 2i feet high ; Swainsonia galegifolia alba, very free and pure ; and Abutilon Golden Fleece (silver-gilt Banksian medal). Another collection of Ferns from Messrs. E. G. Hill and Son, Edmonton, in- cluded many good kinds, such as Asplenium Hilli, A. ornatum, A. Nidus-avis, Lastrea lapida, Da- vallia fijiensis elegans and D. f. robusta, many beautiful warm-tinted Adiantums, Nephrolepis rufescens tripinnatifida, several Gymnogrammas, and others (silver Banksian medal). A choice assortment of Iris Kiumpferi from Messrs. Barr and Son, Covent Garden, included many good things, the majority being named sorts, though the somewhat short stems employed do not display these things to the best advantage. ThecoUection included some thirty or forty kinds. Several handsome spikes of EremurusJBungei with yellow flowers were also shown (silver Banksian medal). Fruit Committee. There was plenty of work for this committee. The exhibits were numerous, the fruit from the Royal Gardens being Hrst-rate, Messrs. Veitch and Sons also staging excellent fruit trees in pots and Strawberries. Grapes, Melons and vegetables were also shown in quantity. First-class certificates were given to — Strawberry Veiwjh's Prolific, the result of crossing Empress of India with British Queen. This is a pale red wedge-shaped fruit. It is a free grower, the flavour being very fine, partaking largely of that of the British Queen. From Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Ltd., Chelsea. CtJcoMBER Sensation. — This is a beautiful fruit, of perfect shape, with scarcely any neck. It is a smooth fruit and one of the most shapely Cucumbers the committee have ever had before them. The quality is very tine also. This was obtained by crossing Matchless with Telegraph. From Mr. Mortimer, Farnham, Surrey. From the Royal Gardens, Windsor, Mr. 0. Thomas sent a large collection of fruit, including Cherries, Peaches, Strawberries and Tomatoes. The Cherries were very fine, especially Royal Duke, May Duke, Archduke, Elton, Downton, Black Eagle, Knight's Black and Frogmore Bigarreau. The fruit of Governor Wood, one of the best and most prolific varieties, was equally tine. Among the Peaches, Violette Hative, Grosse Mignonne and Walburton Admirable were the best, the Elruge and Downton Nectarines being well coloured. The Strawberries were very tine, a great number of varieties being staged, includ- ing Royal Sovereign, Gunton Park, Commander, Queen of Denmark, H^lene Gloede, .James Veitch, Bictcn Pine, La Grosse Sucree, Edouard Lefort, Monarch, Leader and Latest of All (silver-gilt Knightian medal). The same exhibitor staged new Melons and a seedling Strawberry. The Melon named Cambrian was not at its best. The Strawberry named Duke of Connaught, though good, was thought to too closely resemble others in commerce. Messrs. Veitch and Sons, Ltd. , Chelsea, staged dwarf Cherry trees in pots, a very pleasing exhibit, as the trees were crojiping freely, the fruits very good and clean. The best varieties were Elton, May Duke, Bigarreau Napoleon, Empress Eugenie, RoyalDuke, Governor WoodandNouvelle Royale. Branches of Cherries bearing very freely were shown, the varieties being Black Heart and Frogmore Early Bigarreau. Eighteen varieties of Cherries (gathered fruits) were staged, the best being (iuigne d'Annonay, White Heart, Adam"s Crown, Belle d'Orleans, Mammoth, and Bigarreau de Schreken. Twenty-four varieties of Strawberries were shown, including Leader, Monarch, Gunton Park, Dr. Hogg, Royal Sove- reign, Lord Napier, Empress of India, &c. (silver Knightian medal). Messrs. Carter and Co., Holborn, sent forty varieties of Peas. There were very fine examples of Danby Stratagem, Early Morn, Model Telegraph, Model Telephone, Duke of Albany, Gradus, Duke of York, and several seedlings (silver Banksian medal). Two fine stands of Black Hamburgh Grapes, beautiful berries and grandly coloured, were sent by Mr. G. Lane, Hightield Gardens, Staines (bronze Banksian medal). Melons were shown by several exhibitors, but no awards were made. One sent by Mr. W. Coates, Gorddinog Gardens, Llan- fairfechan, was a splendid fruit, but much past its best. Messrs. Laxton Brothers, Bedford, had a promising new Strawberry named Fdl- basket, but not nearly ripe. Leader was also staged, and in tine condition, as was Mentmore. Mr. Bain, Burford Lodge Gardens, Dorking, sent Peach Royal Charlotte, very fine fruits from a tree thirty years old. The Loganberry was sent by Messrs. Kelway and Son, Langport ; this was given an award last year. Peas of splendid quality were sent by Mr. Eckford, Wem, Salop, the best being Wem Giant and Prior ; these two the committee desired to be sent to Chiswick for trial. Other kinds of a large size and good shape were Ideal, Imiierial, and Precocity. Messrs. Cannell and Sons, Swanley, sent a nice collection of Peas, Lord Mayor, Duke of Norfolk, Gradus, Talisman, Epicure, Eynsford, and Reliance being very fine. Dried vegetables in variety were sent by Mr. Maries from the gardens of the Maharajah of Gwalior, India. This was an interesting ex- hibit, but the \ egetables when soaked for cooking, especially the Cauhflower, had an unpleasant smell. Messrs. Laxton sent a fine dish of their new Thomas Laxton Pea, given an award of merit at Chiswick last week. Lettuce Crystal Palace. — An excellent Cab- bage variety, leaves fringed and curled, slightly coloured at the edges. Evidently a grand summer variety. Pea Acme.— An early 3 feet variety of very fine flavour. This Pea is the result of crossing Strata- gem with Veitch's Early, and will be a valuable addition to the earliest section, the haulm being strong and the pnds medium sized. Pea Thomas Laxton.— A 5-feet variety with large deep green pods tightly packed with large Peas. It is a very free bearer, the haulm being laden with pods to the soil. It is a second early with a larger pod than (iradus and equal in {juality. From Messrs. Laxton Bros. Pea Drummond's New.— A very fine variety, not unlike Ne Plus Ultra in colour and flavour, but dwarfer. It has a large pod and is a very free bearer. Other Peas were examined, and in most cases they were most disappointing, having made poor growth and few pods. Evidently the soil was at fault, but we see no reason why good Peas cannot be grown at Chiswick as in previous years. Mr. Beckett, Aldenham House Gardens, Els- tree, sent some splendid Thomas Laxton Peas. This variety received an award and is de- scribed above. Mr. Geo. Bunyard, Maidstone, sent some patent fruit sieves in two sizes (bushel and half bushel); these are round and made with strips of wood, and amply venti- lated. The sieves do not bend or give in the same way as baskets, so that the fruit does not get bruised. The committee wished them to be given a trial at Chiswick this season. They are of Russian manufacture, Messrs. Bunyard use them largely and like them very much. Messrs. Laxton Bros., Bedford, exhibited a new Strawberry, Thomas Laxton, a very promising fruit, the result of crossing Jas. Veitch and Royal Sovereign. The fruit was not unlike that of .Jas. Veitch and was not at its best. A fruiting plant and fruit also were sent of Mentmore, a variety given an award of merit last year at Chiswick. The fruit, though of splendid colour and size, lacked flavour on this occasion, doubtless owing to the cold winds. Meeting at Chiswick. This committee met on the 5th to examine Peas, Strawberries and Lettuce. Several new Strawberries were examined, but in most cases the crops were very poor, and a fair test could not be obtained of their cropping qualities. Awards of merit were given to the following : — Strawberry R,eward. — This was a splendid fruit as regards flavour. It is not large, but of a bright colour, conical in shape. It is a mid- season fruit and stated to be an excellent cropper. The plant is a medium grower and has stout fruit- stalks. From Messrs. Laxton. Koses. The special Rose show postponed from the 'iSth ult. to the present meeting was in every sense a success, and the blooms regarded as a whole of the finest possible quality. Competition was also exceptionally keen in the best classes, there being sometimes as many as twenty competitors. In the class for eighteen single trusses (amateurs), distinct, Mr. O. G. Orpen, Hillside, Colchester, came well to the front, his blooms possessing rare quality and finish, which with size and colouring easily carried off the chief honours. His best blooms were Kaiserin Augusta Victoria, Mrs. W. J. Grant, Ulrich Brunner, Mrs. Sharman Crawford, Cleopatra (a really superb flower), Helen Keller, Mme. Hoste, Mrs. John Laing, La France, and S. M. Rodocanachi, the rosy cerise petals of this last being delightful. Mr. T. B. Haywood, Woodhatch Lod^e, Reigate (gardener, Mr. Salter), was second with capital examples of Caroline Testout, La France, Duke of Wellington, A. K. Williams (finely coloured), S. M. Rodocanachi, Her Majesty (a rather young bloom of grand size and build, showing well the fine pink shade), MerveilledeLyon, Mme. G.Luizet, Marie Baumann, a fine bloom of Pride of Waltham (a rosy peach shade), &e. Mr. C. -T. Grahame, Leatherhead, was third. For eighteen single trusses (open ) Messrs. D. Prior and Son, Colchester, took the first prize, having good La France, Mrs. (irant, S. M. Rodo- canachi, Lady Mary Fitzwilliam, Horace Vernet, M^man Cochet, a charming flower ; and Helen Keller. Messrs. Frank Cant and Co., Colchester, came second with Duke of Connaught, Her Majesty, Captain Hayward, Duke of Edinburgh, Marchioness of Londonderry, Marquis Litta and others, Messrs. Paul and Son, Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, being third. For twelve single trusses, distinct (amateurs), the first prize went to Mr. E. Mawley, Rosebank, Berkhamsted, the tinest blooms being Beauty of Waltham, Mrs. Paul, La July 16, 1898.] THE GARDEN, 51 France, Mrs. (inint, Caroline Testout, very fine; Ulrich Brunncr and S. M. Rodocanachi : Mr. Alfred Tate, Downside, Loatherhead, who .set up handsome flowers of Kaieerin .Vuftusta Victoria, Duchess of Bedford, La France, S. M. Khodo- canachi, i^c. , beinj; second, with the Rev. A. Foster .Melliar, Sproughton Rectory, Ipswich, who had good blooms of White Lady, .Mrs. Grant, Her Majesty, Innocente Pirola, Francois Michelon, &c. , third. The class for six single trusses, distinct (amateurs), brought a goodly lot of blooms, the leading prize being won by .Mr. (!. \V. Cook, The Briers, North Fincbley, with lino Mrs. Sharman Crawford, EarTDutlerin, Mrs. (irant, Francois Michelon, &c , Mr. F. J. Thomp- son, Laurels, Bounds Iheen, being second with Her Majesty, Kaiserin Augusta Victoria, La France, Ulrich Brunner, and others in good form. For nine single trusses of any one variety of H.B. or H.T. (amateurs) the lirst prize went to Mr. T. B. Haywood, Woodhatch Lodge, Reigate, for a fine lot of Mrs. Laing, the second prize being secured by Mr. C. J. (h-ahame, Leatherhead, who set up Mrs. Liing and an optional lot of Kaiserin Augusta Victoria, the latter variety being also used by Mr. O. G. Orpen, Hillside, Colches- ter, who secured the third prize. For six trusses of any one variety of H.P. or H.T. (amateurs) the first prize was obtained by Mr. G. \V. Cook, North Fincbley, for fine blooms of Mrs. John Laing, the same variety being staged by Mr. Alf. Tate, Leatherhead, and by Mr. E. M. Bethune, Horsham, who secured second and third prizes respectively. In this class there were no less than seventeen entries, and it says much for the popularity of Mrs. J. Laing to see it so freely used. Tk.\s .\nd Noisettes. — For eighteen single trusses, not less than twelve varieties or more than two trusses of any one variety, Mr. O. G. Orpen, Hillside, Colchester, was first with a mag- nificent set in the very pink of condition, his Caroline Kuster, Catherine Mermet, Corinna, Medea, Bridesmaid (a lovely soft salmon), Mme. Hoste, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Cleopatra, Mme. Cusin, Souv. de Elise Vardon, Maman Cochet, and Souv. de S. A. Prince being perfect models of beauty, Mr. E. M. Bethune, DeenePark, Horsham, who was second, having Medea, Caroline Kuster, Souv. de Therese Levet, Cleopatra in grand form, and an ex<|uisite bloom of Comtesse de Nadaillac. For eighteen single trusses (open), Messrs. 1). Prior and Son, Colchester, again took the leading place, having Jean Ducher, Mme. de Watteville, Corinna, Mme. Hoste, Ernest Metz, Maman Cochet, Innocente Pirola, and Comtesse de Na- daillac, the last three being of superb form, size, and finish, the second prize going to Mr. G. Prince, Oxford, who had Comtesse de Nadaillac, very rich, the centre almost full golden ; Sylph, Ni- phetos, Maman Cochet, Souv. de S. A. Prince, and Innocente Pirola among his best. For twelve single trusses, not less than nine vars. (amateurs), the first prize went to Rev. V. H. .Jackson, Stags- den Vicarage, Bedford, Ernest Metz, Mme. Hoste, Catherine Mermet, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Souv. d'un Ami, and Caroline Kuster being the best examples, the second prize going to Mr. .J. T. Strange, Aldermaston, Reading. For six single trusses, not less than four varieties. Miss B. H. Langton,Raymead,Hendon, was first with Souv. de S. A. Prince, The Bride, Catherine Mermet, and Comtesse de Nadaillac as among the Ijcst ; Mr. R. W. Bovvycr, Haileybury College, Herts, being second with Mme. Cusin, Mme. de Watte- ville, Catherine Mermet, and Comtesse Nadaillac. For nine single trusses of any one variety (ama- teurs), Mr. O. (i. Orpen, Hillside, Colchester, took the leading prize with a superb set of Souv. de S. A. Prince, Mr. C. J. Grahame being second. For six single trusses of any one variety, Mr. E. M. Bethune, Horsham, took the lead with a beautiful and uniform set of The Bride in fine condition, Rev. Foster Melliar being second with Souv. d'Eli.se Vardon, very fine in form and full. Gak[)EN' and decorative Roses. — Of the more freely flowered garden sorts there were several groups not for competition from leading firms. notably those of Messrs. Paul, Cant, Turner, and others. These were all arranged in largo hand- some bunches, which together with the immcrous buds made a fine display. The group from Mr. Clias. Turner, Slough, contained m.'iiiy good things, such as Alister S. (iray, a charming soft yellow ; I'erle d'Or, The Pet, Narcisse, a creamy lemon shade ; Laurette Messimy, a lovely Siilmon-peach, in the bud, very pleasing; Crimson Rambler, Maiden's Blush, Bardou Job, very dark, and many beautiful seedlings only bearing numbers (silver Flora medal), ^fessrs. Paul and Son, The Old Nurseries, Cheshunt, had such kinds as Ro.-^a Mundi in the way of \ork and Lmcaster, Carmine Pillar, Mme. P. Cochet, (iustave Regis (a nankeen-yellow), Coujie d'Hibfe, Royal Scarlet (a fine colour), Alister S. Gray, Canioens (rosy peach), Mignonette, Marquis of Salisbury (very intense snade), and Moschata alba (a large pure white), being among the mo.-, 12 feet ; number of loaves, "8, without count- ing a number of amill ones from Bocondary crowns. — T. Smith. T.ilium Hansoni. — This is one of the fiuest Lilies from a gurJiMi point of view where freedom of HoweriiiK "ith g od habit and easy culture is con- cerned. It is specially suited to grouping with a free hand, and when associated with other things, Bucli a? dw;irf shrubs on the grass or the like, is seen to better advantage. Dianthus csesius is perhaps the best known and possibly the commonest of the I'ink tribe, yet one of the most beautiful by reason of the delicate^ pink bIos.soms that practically cover the dense cushion nf leaves. It is a pretty plant, too often absent from those positions tliat suit it best, viz., such as are warm and dry, where it grows and blossoms with all its wonted freedom. Hydrangea panieuHta grandiflora.— The handsome pbune-like panicles of this plant when gently forced render it among the most useful of Bhru\)by plants that are suited for the decoration of the greenhouse. The plant is so easily grown by tlie ordinary methods, that it should find its way, even if in limited quantity, into various arrangements where bold subjects are required. Flowers from 'Winchmore Hill.— I send you some flowers of seedling Heleniums, three of which I consider first-class plants, viz., H. grandiflorum var. Beauty (l-i feet), H. g. var. Golden Queen (2 feet), H. pumilum magniticum (i.V feet). This last is the finest of anything in this way. I also send H. grandiflorum (type), II. pumilum and H. Bolanderi, which runs 11. piimilum very close. — A-Mos Perry. Thalictrum tuberosum.— So very few of the members of this genus are of any value in a cut state, that the above is worthy of mention from this stand- point alnue, the flowers being pure white and each about halt an inch across. Associate 1 with this is the elegant habit of the dwarfer Meadow Rues, such as T. adiantifoUum, Ac , the compact habit of growtli, which is rather under 2 feet, beiog all that could be desired. Campanula punctata.— There is a distinct- ness about the spjtted Bellflower thit is not the accompaniment of every species or variety, the ex- ceptionally long pendent white flowers— more than ordinarily attractive— being freely, though delicately spotted Deir the base of the corolla on the mner sur- face. So wjrthy a plant should more frequently be grown. It is well suited to the rock garden or border in good loamy soil. A pretty combination of leaf and flower occurs in my garden. A large plant of the white- leaved Euonymus japonicus, which covers a north wall for some distance, is wreathed with sprays of Tropa'olum speciosum, and the effect is charming, (.^lose to it is a plant of Garry elliptica, over which the Tropivolum rambles equally freely, but the flowers are far less effective against this green background.— S. H. B., Ledbury. Allium kansuense. — Although the Alliums are not favourite flowers, there are several species well worth growing. A pretty and distinct little Garlic has been growing here under the name of A. kansuense for several years. It grows only a few inches high, has steel-blue flowers, and increases but slowly. The flowers are drooping, and the plant is well adapted for growing in the rock garden.— S. Arnott, Carmthoni, by Ditni- Gloxinia Her Majesty. — This is undoubtedly the best white among these increasingly popular flowers, the large handsome blossoms, often from 4 inches to 4^ inches across, being as remarkable for their exceeding purity in all their varying stages as for the great vigour of the stems. The flowers are bold and erect, and the massive fohage drooping over the pots singularly small for the size of the plant. A large batch of this hand- £2 THE GARDEN. [July 1G, 1898. some kind is now in perfection with the Messrs. Sutton and Sons, Reading. Euddleias.— The species B. globosa is very cotcmon in gardens about here, and the height of 20 feet is not at all unusual. B. Lindleyana occurs in several gocd gardens under protected verandahs, and is often 15 feet or more high, though Nicholson gives its height as 6 feet. I had a plant of B. globosa against a west wall in mygaiden at Tonbridge, in Kent. It flowered well for eight years, until a frost came, which was just too much for it and killed it to the roots.— W. Thomson, BixJwp'.'< Tiiijnioii, S. Deron. Campanula cenisia. — Among the rarer Bell- flowers this is worth a place by reason of its dis- tinct colour as much as its equally distinct habit of growth. The species, however, is not so easily grown as some kinds, but if given a good position in the rock garden, in a narrow, though deep chink of gritty loam, it usually holds its own. A surface mulching of small stones not only stays over rapid evaporation, but likewise prevents the plants being lifted by froft or worms— the former a great impediment to the success of many good alpine flowers. Lupinus arboreus. — The tone of soft yellow in this well-known plane renders it exceedingly popular not only in the garden, but in a cut state, and for the combined uses named it is worthy of inclusion in any collection of hardy free flowering plants. The plant is likewise well suited to making a sort of garden fence, and in this way even when not in flower the silvery grey tone of its foliage renders it distinct and effective. Large isolated groups, too, have a very distinct appear- ance, while its profuse flowering commends it to all. Antirrhinum Yellow Prince.— Even a soli- tary yjlant of this handsome self yellow Snap- dragon would sutiioe to portray the beauty as well as the value of such a sterling variety as this. At the same time we were not prepared recently in a hurried glance through the seed trial grounds at Reading of Messrs. Sutton and Sons to meet something like an acre or more of this fine yellow Snapdragon. In it freedom of growth and dwarf- ness are combined with freedom of flowering and earliness. The first flush of beauty had, how- ever, passed, thus showing even early in .July its claim to early flowering. Campanula grandis alba is a very old and showy, if much neglected, border plant that is now 'in full bloom. It is scarcely possible to imagine a purer mass of colour than a large group or bed of it with dozens of the snow-white spikes about 2A feet in height. The hardy, vigorous nature of the plant tits it for association with quite strong-growing subjects, and if at times it is apt to cover too much space this is easily remedied. The blue form is eciually good in its way, and where for varying reasons the forms of C. persicifolia are not a success the above plant will be found a good substitute, and not so liable to fail in hot, dry seasons. Iris Iieon Tolstoi.— The "English" Irises have been very beautiful here this season, and among the dark varieties none have been so much admired as this grand one which was figured in The (l.ARDKN some time ago. The flowers are very lirge and dark blue-purple. It has looked ex- ceedingly well, springing from a carpet of glowing orangeCalifornian Poppies(Eschscholtzias), which follow the Snowdrops which in the early year flower in the same spot. Fine as are these Irises, there is yet room for impro\-ement from seed. Some pretty varieties have appeared here among seedlings, but none have been named. — S. Arnott, CnrsKlhoni, by Dumfi inx, X.B. Walker's hybrid Lychnis.— This hybrid between Lychnis or Agrostemma coronaria and L. Flos-Jovis is at present in full bloom, and is vsry itlective with its bright scarlet flowers. Agros- temma Walkeri, as it is generally called, resembles to some extent both its parents, and is an acquisi- tion to the garden. It is practically a biennial, although it occasionally survives after flowering. It produces seed, but this is not to be depended upon to come true, and generally reverts to one or other of the parents. A. Walkeri was raised at Chester, and was sent out by Messrs. Dicksons of that city. Similar hybrids have appeared else- where.—S. Arnott, Camethorn, by Diimjrifs, N.B. The Shipka Broom (CytisusFrivaldskyanus). — Under this name (which is even more un- musical than another it is known by, viz., C. schipkaensis) we now have in flower a Broom which promises to be a very useful addition to the group of dwarf kinds. It is a native of the Balkans, and was found only a few years since on the Shipka Pass. It first appeared in this country three or four years ago, but now it has become established it shows itself to be a better thing than wa=i thought probable at first. It is about 1 foot high at present, and bears its flowers in an umbel or head at the end of each shoot. They are white with a yellow tinge, and the plant is quite dittinct from any of the Brooms now in flower. Of the well-known older species, C. capitatusmost resembles it. Its value is increased by flowering as late as this, when most of the Brooms are past. Notes from Cranbrook. — Ostrowskia mag- nifica has opened one flower here for the first time. To judge from it, anything more unworthy of such a name cannot he conceived. Callas in a foot of water, where they have been for some years, are luxuriant. Little Gem in about (i in. of water is, I think, more free-growing and satis- factory than any of them. Iris K;empferi is just coming out. I think it does best just above the water-fine, but I have plants in G inches of water which flower well and increase in size. The Water Lilies are fully a month late : sunless days and cold nights have chilled the water. Verbas- cum olympicum is a glorious sight, and the self- sown Foxgloves of all shades quite take the place of the flowers in the Rhododendron beds. The various climbing single and cluster Roses and Sweet Briers lilbng the hedges show how easily these necessary evils may be made beautiful. — Medway. The Mocassin Flower at Strafifin. — Your note in last week's Garden on the Mocassin Flower (Cypripedium spectabile) here has one error. For fine dry clumps, read " five dry clumps,'' which would give the rate of increase, which is the most interesting part of the note ; otherwise, readers would think that the whole twenty four plants had been imported.— Frehk. Bedford. I was pleased to see the note on this by Mr. Burbidge, and shall be pleased if Mr. Bed- ford will accede to his re(juest and give us par- ticulars of his treatment. It was not in flower when I visited Straffan, but the plants were exceedingly fine and the flower-buds gave promise of the remarkable display they have since made. What is more, they were not planted in a bog, nor had they apparently received any treatment beyond the means of those possessing a good flower border. No doubt Mr. Bedford has cared for them and catered for their wants well, but it puzzles one to account for his success under the conditions und^r which they grow.— S. Arnott. Rhododendron (Azalea) occidentale. — Now that all the evergreen Rhododendrons and nearly all the Azaleas are over for this year, the value of this shrub becomes all the more apparent. It was at its best during the latter half of June, but i< still well in bloom. It is, of course, now fully in leaf, and embowered in its luxuriant bright green fuliage are its large clusters of flowers. These are mainly of a pure white, bub have a blotch of p.ile yellow on the upper side. Not only are they beautiful to look at, but they also fill the air around with a most charming frag- rance, eiiualling in this respect the old Rhodo- dendron flavum (better known as Azalea pontica). The species is a native of the western side of the Rocky Mountains, and is the only Azalea in cul- tivation from that part of North America. It has been in cultivation for upwards of fifty years, and has lately been hybridised with the earlier varieties by Mr, Wate'rer, of Knap Hill, with a view to lengthening the Azalea season. The re- sults already achieved are very promising. Public Gardens. A new park for aueensferry — The Earl of Rosebery has presented to the mbabitants of Queensferry a large piece of land to the east of Kirkliston Road, to be used as a public recreation ground. , . . Public gardens and the study of botany. —A letter was received from the London County Council, stating that the Parks and Open Spaces Committee had considered the Board's letter of May 24 last, which enclosed an extract from a report from the British Embassy at Berlin, as to the arrangements in force in that city for facili- tating the study of botany, and which asked the Council whether a somewhat similar arrangement could not be made in London. The County Council informed the Board that they were taking steps in this direction by forming a series of beds in Battersea, Ravenscourt, and Victoria Parks, with specimens of plants in their natural orders, and added that the Parks Committee thought that it would be desirable to see the result of this experiment before proceeding any further for the present. Open spaces.— At the monthly meeting of the Metropolitan Public Gardens Association, 83, Lancaster Gate, W., Lord Teynham, deputy- chairman, presiding, it was reported that since the last meeting the garden which the association laid out in York Street, Walworth, and the Central Park and drinking fountain. East Ham, had been formally opsned to the public. It was agreed to undertake the laying out of a disused burial ground in Hoxton, the enclosure at Port- land Place, New Kent Road, and some small City churchyards, provided that proper arrangements were made in each case for maintenance. In response to the appeal of the association, a reply was received from the Rev. Harry .Tones, the rector, to the efl'ecb that so far as he was able he had, in giving up a strip of the churchyard of St. Peter Cheap for the widening of Wood Street, safeo-uarded the existence of the fine Plane tree at tSe corner of Cheapside and Wood Street. It was anreed to communicate with the Corporation asking that body to take care to do nothing which would injure the roots of this uni t. aiu " Essais Pia'iqiips de C himie Horticole. Far Alb. Lirbaletriir. Octxve Doin. Names of plants — F. JUen— Certainly not. D. D.— 1, Ophrys npifera (Bee Orchid) ; 2, Den dr bium barbitulum ; 3, Stat'ce sp. A. D. —Flowers fallen to pieces ; impossible to name. Q T — Lilium Martagon album. Medway.— Ver- bascum phffiniceum. s'pri'nffh'/;.- Kynchospermum iasminoide.". W. J. V —1, Spiroeacjnescens ; 2, the Tamarisk. C. L.-L'ptospormum scoparium, a New Zealand shrub, vtry interesting out ot doors F. N. G.— C'-ata3gOFCrus-giUi of the forms cf Iris paM.da. B. -A. D.B.-Oae THE GARDEN. No. 1392.— Vol. LIV.] [JULY 23, 1898. The Market Garden :— fStniwbcrrios in Kent .. .. 53 Orchids :— Ciittleya Wiirncri r»5 Ch ysis hi?vis 54 Lif lia crispu 55 Masdevallia caudata hybrids 54 Miisdcvallia Peri^teria .. .. 54 Oiicidium Harrisoniaiium .. 5t Oncidium Laiiceanum .. ,. 55 Orchids, cool, in frames .. 54 \'anda Denisoniaiia 54 Flower:— Baden- Baden, notes from .. 57 Flower gxirdeu notes .. .. 58 Flowers, hardy, in cottage Rardcus 50 Ins Inpina 'i[^ Jris lupinaat Be'fhjlcl'l, Wat- ton-oii-Tlinmin 59 Iris hexagoua 5.') Iris Kit-mpfcri at Wiblcy .. 55 Ijeuoojiini :«stiviim 59 liilief, hybrid .'>S Lilium Browniand L.odonmi 55 Lilium gigantemu at Witloy 55 Lilium f-peciosum in bloom 55 Liliima testiiceum 55 Ononis, the 57 Pansy, Tufted, Christiana .. 65 Pansy, Tufted, Magie ..55 Pansy, Tufted, Whit« Em- press . . . . . . . . 55 Pansy, Tnfted, Blush Queen.. 59 Pansy, Tufted, Celeste .. 59 Panpy, Tufted, Devonshire Cream 59 Pant-y, Tufted, Duchess of Teck.. 59 Pansy, Tufted, Flcrizel.. .. 59 Plants, hardy, notes on. , . . 58 Polygonum .'ach ilinense . . 55 Eorl- Garden, part or a, at B'gc Hall .. ..' .. .. 57 Saxifragalongifolia and others 57 Tulips, lifting and storing ,. 59 Destroyers :— Pea thrips, the 61 Spraying— it8 pa&t, present, and future 59 Books:— " The Pruning Book " . . . . 62 Garden Flora:— Acalypha 8anderiana .. .. 62 XWTDEX:. (Illustrations in Italics.) Week's Work:- Hardy fruit, work among . . 68 Kitchen garden, work In ..63 Kltohen :— Broccoli, late June Monarch.. Cii Cabbage seeds, sowing .. .. 60 Lettuces, summer 65 Onion, enemies of the .. .. 64 Paranips and Carrots .. .. 60 Pea Boston Unrivalled .. .. 6G Pea May Queen for autumn sowing Oj Pea Thomas Laxton .. .. 65 Potato Famous G^) Spinach as a catch crop . . . (j5 Tomatoes outside 6i! Btove and GreenlioiiBe :— AmarylUsi, a scedlinfj .. .. 66 Amaryllises, seedling . . . . 66 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine.. 67 Buttercup, the Bermuda ., 67 Crassula jssminea 67 Hydrangea Horteiisia .. .. 67 Lavatera arborea variegata , . 67 Metrosideros floribunda . 67 Pelargonium, a good light- flowered 67 Pelargoniums, two Ivy-leaved 67 Streptocarpus Wendlandi .. 68 Tecoma jasmlnoides .. .. 67 Orchard and Fmlt :— I Apple, Irish Peach 08 Apple, the Sandringham .. OS .t/ip/^y Iht' S^tnilrinffham.. .. 08 Apples, notes on OS Peach trees, leaf -curl in . .. 08 Strawberry Sir C. Napier . . 68 Strawberries, ripe, by post .. 69 Hotea of the Week :— Acantholimon glumaceura ., 72 Americ;i, a note from . . . . 72 Aspleniumdivaricatum . .. 71 Brodijea stellarls 71 Calochortus vennstus albus Vesta 71 Carnation Lord Rosebery . . 71 Carton, Co. Kildare, notes from 72 Coreopsis grandiflora superba 71 Daffodil bulb, a fine . . . . 72 Eremurus Bungei 71 Exacum macranthum .. ., 72 Galega officinalis alba .. ., 71 Galega officinalis bicolor . . 71 HemerocalKa aurantiaca major 71 Iris Kii?m]jfori 72 Lilium i-andidum 71 Lilium HumlKjIdti magnificuni 71 Lilium spcciosum album novum 71 f)8trowskia maguifica alba .. 71 Pansy, Tufted, Masterpiece.. 71 Pansy, Tufted, Virginius .. 71 Pea, Sweet, Butterfly .. .. 71 Peas, Sweet, self-coloured ,. 71 Rose Gustave Regis . . 72 Rose Mme. Alfred Carriere . . 71 Roses, two good hght-colourcd 71 Salvia cadmica 72 Strawberry Trafalgar .. .. 71 H wainsonia galegifolia alba . . 71 Tropteolum Fairy Queen .. 71 Veronica ZanicheUi 71 Water Lily, Froebel's .. .. 71 Publlo Gardens:— Chelsea, Physic Garden at .. 72 Prince George's Ground, Raj-nes Park .. .. *. 72- HlBcellaneoas :— Clematises dyint^ off . . . . 72 June in South Devon .. .. 69 Royal Horticultural Society.. 72 Weather, the, in West Herts .. 72 The Market Garden. STRAWBERRIES IN KENT. For the past few weeks the Strawberry season has been in full swing. Strawberries, like all other Kentish fruits, have their own favoured locality, and it is within comparatively easy distance of the metropolis that the majority are grown. In private gardens Strawberries are freijuently subject to a good deal of coddling, often without the best results, but the acres of fine fruit grown in Kent under field cultivation prove that given a suitable soil and situation, with other conditions favourable. Strawberries of the finest quality can be and are produced in tons from the open fields. At the same time they demand good cultivation, and the growers who are the most liberal in matters of manure and labour usually reap the best harvest. When recently in the neighbourhood of Swanley I noticed many fields, and amongst them a large field on a sloping hillside. Clean white straw had been carefully placed between the rows and worked round the plants for the purpose of keeping the fruit clean. On this the luscious, fresh-looking berries rested, and in the sunshine their bright colour showed up in an attractive manner. The most popular Kentish Strawberry is still Sir .Joseph Paxton, no doubt on account of its bright appearance and good travelling qualities. In choosing varieties the market Strawberry grower has to consider three important points, viz., appear- ance, suitability for travelling and flavour. One would naturally think the last would be the first consideration, but such does not appear to be the case. The public prefers something that pleases the eye, and the large bright appearance of Sir .Joseph Paxton attracts the attention of purchasers before another variety not possessing these qualities, though better in flavour. Again, Sir J. Paxton is a good traveller, which is evident from the fact that tons of Kentish fruit are put on rail near their native fields and despatched direct to Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and other great centres in the north, where they arrive in a sound con- dition. This variety is also a sturdy grower and free cropper, two important essentials, and when we also consider the tendency of sticking to a well-tried sort like this in prefer- ence to speculating with others of recent intro- duction we have the chief arguments in favour of Sir Joseph Paxton as a market Strawberry. Though the variety uientioned holds its own, there are others making headway, and doubtless the foremost amongst them is Royal Sovereign. I have had frequent opportunities of obtaining the opinion of growers respecting this variety from a market point of view, and with scarcely one exception the replies have been most favourable. On many farms it is now grown largely and bids fair to become a keen com- petitor for premier place with the older variety. In the first place Royal Sovereign is early, and this is essential. Growers who make a point of forcing and also of picking the earliest out- door fruit for dessert speak highly of Royal Sovereign, which is generally ripe some days before Sir J. Paxton, and as the first fruit in the market has an important bearing on the returns, this is a recommendation. Noble is another variety more or less popular among market growers, but there appears to be a diversity of opinion in regard to its qualities as a market fruit. Some growers speak highly of it and grow the variety largely, while others again complain of its woolly flavour and indiSerent cropping. Other varieties are grown in less ((uantities, but the list is con- fined to the above-mentioned sorts. The Kentish Strawberry grower, however, is no bigot, and is generally ready to give any variety a trial that is likely to suit his purpose. The advent of the Strawberry season intro- duces an air of activity into districts where the fruit is grown extensively, and as the majority of Kentish Strawberries are produced within comparatively easy distance of London a great many of the pickers hail from the densely- crowded streets of the metropolis. Growers have long since learnt the importance of getting the fruit into the market early, and long before half London is awake the light spring drays piled up with round hampers of fruit picked the same morning are on their way to Covent Garden. Before the trains come in, the first consignments have been despatched by dealers to all parts of the metropolis. When the first streaks of light break over Kentish fields the pickers turn out under the super- vision of a foreman, the piles of round hampers are filled withfruit, and in a fewhoursare on their way to the market. In districts lying further from London the fruit has to be sent by rail, and from some stations many tons of fruit are des- patched during the season. Growers of a small quantity of Strawberries in private gardens have no idea of the magnitude of the traflic in this fruit, most of which is confined to Kent. The demand is always great, and prices vaiy according to supply. Late frosts often liave disastrous eflects on the Strawberry crop, but when natural conditions are favourable those who are the most liberal in matters of cultiva- tion invariably obtain the best returns. The period over which a plantation will con- tinue in good bearing depends largely on the treatment, and, though three or four years is the averag" time under high cultivation, Straw- berries will continue to bear much longer. Good clean straw is the best material for plac- ing round the plants before the fruit ripens, and, though for the sake of economy other material is sometimes used, the result is not satisfactory, particularly in damp weather, owirg to the wholesale rotting of the fruit. Most growers raise their own plants for new planta- tions, and, though this work cannot be done with quite the same care as is usually practised in private gardens, the importance of obtaining strong early runners and planting them in time to become established before the winter sets in has been proved over and over again, and the most successful growers are careful in paying attention to this. After picking is over there 54 THE GARDEN. [July 23, 1898. is much to te done in the Strawberry fields. Bemovirg the runners, cleaning the plants, cultivation hetweeii the rows, and feeding with natural and artificial manures are all included in the routine, so that next season's crop may be ensured so far as the grower is concerned. G. H. H. Orchids. COOL ORCHIDS IN FRAMES. There are many beginners in Orchid culture that have or.ly one house wherein to grow theii' plants, and naturally like to have as much variety in their small collections as possible. It is surprising what a number of species may be wintered in one house : Cattleyas and Lamias from the Brazilian forests, Odontoglos- sums and various others from Mexico and Guatemala, many of the West Indian Onci- diums, and a large number of Vandas, Den- drobes and Cypripediums from the Old World habitats. The list, in fact, is a very long one, and includes the majority of the showiest and most beautiful of Orchids. But in summer a large proportion of the plants would be difficult to manage successfully. The most of those named may by judicious arrangement and care- ful treatment still Ije included, but none of the truly alpine kinds from Peru and New Grenada, the Masdevallias, cool Oncidiums and Odonto- glots, will long continue in health if subjected to the temperature relished by Cattleyas and Den- drobiums. They will not withstand the same amount of sun, while if the house were suffi- ciently ventilated for them the atmosphere would prove too dry. But if a well built pit or even a few frames are provided, all these lovely species may be grown with the greatest ease. When different frames or com- partments of a pit can be set aside for them the probability of succeeding is still greater, as such species as Lycaste Skinneri and others, Maxillarias in variety, and the graude, citrosmum and others of the warmer Odontoglots can be kept distinct from Masdevallias and Disas, Restrepias and Odontoglossums of the crispum set. A small or large compartment, according to the stock of plants may be set apart for Cypripediums of the insigne, villosum and ve- nustum types, these species and their varieties doing well in sunnuer in any fairly moist and shady frame. When the ordinary wooden box frame is to be used, something should be done to prevent slugs and snails entering. A layer of sharp ashes and soot is a preventive to some extent, and if it can be managed a better way is to stand the frames on a zinc or stone tray holding an inch or so of water. Or these may be made to fit the inside of the frame and the plants be staged thereon. These or other methods that will occur to anyone interested may be supplemented by careful watching at night with a lantern, or trapping in Lettuce leaves or scooped-out Potatoes, and one of the most troublesome details will be overcome. If the plants can be placed in a shady part of tlie garden all the better ; the position will be naturally cooler and less shading will be necessary. The amount necessary will, of course, dejjend on the .species grown, but the greater number of cool-Iiouse kinds like plenty of shade during the summer. In all other details the culture of the plants is precisely the same as for others grown in the usual cool house ; ventilation and watering, cleaning and attention to atmospheric moisture all needing care. Regarding the season that they may be moved to tlie frames, it is good policy to get them out as early as possible after the middle of Ajjril. Sometimes it is very cold at night just at this time, frosts and cold winds being the rule, and in this case the plants will be safer in the house a little longer. When taken out, cover- ing the glass at niglit will be necessary, at least until the middle of June in ordinary seasons. The reason for taking them out early is that the other occupants of the house can afterwards be properly treated as to temperature. Tliey may remain in the frame until September at least, and in some seasons it is quite safe to leave them out as late as October and early November. When taken back to the house they should be arranged in the coolest part. Masdevallia Peristeria. — This handsome species varies a good deal in size, a flower of a good form of it, measuring about 5 inches across, being now open. The striking part of the flower is the centre, where lip and sepals form a resemblance to those of the Dove Orchid, hence the specific name. The fJower is greenish exter- nally, the centre purplish-brown, owing to the number of small hair-like processes upon it. It is a native of various parts of New Grenada, and was introduced in 187.3. Chysis Isevis.— The flowers of this species, each upwards of 2 inches across, are produced in racemes of about a dozen flowers on the strongest plants. The ground colour is a brownish yellow, the lip prettily spotted with red. It may be grown either in the Cattleya house or the East India house, an important point being to get the growth well ripened in autumn, as it will not bloom satisfactorily unless the old pseudo-bulbs are well hardened. The foliage at first is soft and is always liable to insect attacks, red spider being especially partial to it. A sound compost of equal parts loam fibre, peat, and Sphagnum Moss suits the stronger plants well. Water must be freely given at the roots as long as the growth is active, a greatly lessened supply being necessary while the plants are at rest during winter. Oncidium Harrisonianum.— It is strange that this beautiful little species is not more often met with, as it is so distinct and pretty. The peculiar glaucous-grey tint of the foliage and bulbs distinguishes it from all others, and the panicled inflorescence is unlike that of the ma- jority of Oncidiums. The colour is yellow, spotted with red on the sepals and petals, and a fine crest on the lip. On account of its small tufted habit a large pot is unnecessary, but I like pans or pots better than blocks or baskets. The small pans pierced at the sides are excellent for it, tlie roots obtaining abundance of air through these holes, an important point with epiphytal plants. Grown in an ordinary description of compost the plants do well, and flower annually in a house such as suits Sopbronitis or any of the grande section of Odontoglossum. They like plenty of light, and will stand more sun than cool Orchids generally. It comes from various parts of Brazil, and first flowered in this country in 1832. — H. Vanda Denisoniana. —The pure white flowers of this beautiful Vanda are always attractive, and it is only too little grown. The lip is singularly formed and has a narrow front lobe and erect side lobes, the blossoms appearing about a dozen or so upon a spike. Like many of the smaller-growing Vandas, it dislikes a great body of heavy material about the roots, and is, in fact, well treated if potted or basketed like V. ccerulea. In quite small receptacles nice specimens, carrying several flower - spikes, may be grown, and they are splendid for grouping or the spikes are fine for cutting. The compost may be the usual Sphag- num and charcoal as advised for distichous-leaved kinds generally, the drainage and other material being scrupulously clean. It delights in warmth and a very moist atmosphere while making its growth, this latter being provided by frequently damping down the stages and floors rather than by overhead syringing. Occasional light dewings are helpful, especially during the afternoon of hot summer days, but regular syringings are not advisable. V. Denisoniana grows naturally on the Arracan Mountains, where it was discovered by Colonel Benson about 1868. MASDEVALLIA CAl'DATA HYBRIDS. This section is suitable for basket or pan cul- ture, as they certainly thrive more satisfactorily when suspended near the roof glass. They are a distinct, desirable, and easily cultivated class of hybrids, requiring through the warm months of the year similar treatment as regards tem- perature and moisture as the cool section of Masdevallias. During the winter it is not desir- able to allow them to have a temperature less than 50°, or they are liable to get spotted. The best time to repot these is about the end of August, using fibrous peat and living Sphag- num, two parts of the former to one of the latter, pressing the compost moderately firm about the roots and base of the plants. M. SnuTTRYAXA {M. caudata x M. Harryana). — Tliis is one of the prettiest hybrids of this sec- tion, the flowers produced on scapes about a foot in length. The flower has the triangular charac- teristics of M. caudata, enlarged and flattened by the influence of the stronger growing parent. The colour is bright rose, slightly veined and sufJ'ased at the base with a darker shade of colour ; the tail nearly .3 inches in length, bright yellow ; the miniature lip rose with a blotch of purple on the apex, the side lobes white. It is a lovely free- flowering variety of good constitution and worthy of every consideration. It was raised in Sir T. Lawrence's collection. M. Chamberlaixiasa was raised in the High- bury collection from the same parents. It is superior in many respects, being brighter in colour and altogether larger. M. CoDRTAULDiANA (M.caudata x M. rosea). — Although not possessing the robust constitution of the last named variety, this is a distinct and lovely form, having the intermediate character- istics of both parents both in growth and shape of the flowers. The interior of the lower sepals is blush-white with several prominent rose lines, the upper sepal half yellow with several bright purple lines, the tails greenish yellow, the lip white witli purple blotch in front, the exterior yellow, spotted and suffused with rose-pink. It was raised in the nurseries of Messrs. F. Sander and Co. M. CAUDATA EsTRAU.E. — This, raised from the species indicated in the name by Mr. Seden in Messrs. Veitch and Sons' nurseries, is a dwarf- growing and free-flowering hybrid, with the inter- mediate characteristics of both parents. In shape it takes after M. caudata, with the bright colour- ing of M. Estrad*. The lower sepals are white, suffused from the centre downwards with bright rose-purple, the upper sepal creamy yellow lined and suffused with bright purple, the lip white, spotted with distinct rose, the side lobes white, the tails of the sepals bright golden yellow. M. (Jelengaka (M. caudata x M. xanthina). — This hybrid has the dwarf characteristics of Masdevallia xanthina and is best suited by a position near the roof glass. The lower sepals are creamy yellow, thickly covered with rich purple spots, the upper sepals yellow, lined and suffused with brown-purple miniature spots. The tails are bright yellow, the lip rose, spotted with purple. It is a most distinct and desirable variety, free flowering, and has a good constitu- tion. M. PocRRAixi (M. Veitchi x M. caudata). — The sepals are bright yellow, spotted and veined with dark purple, the tails rich purple, the lip yellow, suffused with purple, and a rich purple blotch on the disc. It is a distinct and dtsirable hybrid, worthy of every consideration. M. KiMBALLiANA, raised from the same parent- age as M. Pourbaixi, was introduced through Messrs. F. Sander and Co., St. Albans. It differs Jdly 23, 1898] THE GARDEN. 55 slif;htly in colour from the last mentioned hybrid, but the fjencriil characteristics are very similar. M. Hkxriktt.i; (M. ignea eruboscens x M. caudata).— This is a pretty form, somewhat re- sembling M. Shuttryana, but having more oraiii^e and tracings of the purple lines as seen in M. ignea, is very distinct. It has the triangular characteristics of M. Shuttleworthi, and is about intermediate between the two species both in habit of growth and in the flowers. It was raised in Mr. Ames's collection in America. STtT.IS. CATTLEYA WARNERI. This species is less variable than many others of the labiata set, but where a fair number of plants are grown there will be considerable difference in the flowers. Both in its manner of flowering and the shape of the blossoms it comes nearer to the true Cattleya labiata than any of the others, and its culture is in some respects similar. The growth starts in spring, the flower spikes being produced upon it at once, the flowering season being extended over a longer or shorter period according to the number of plants grown. C. Warneri cannot be described as a ditticult plant to cultivate ; indeed, when healthy and well established the growths come away with consider- able freedom, but it is a plant that it is wise to keep in health when it is so, for it is not easy to bring it back when it gets badly shrivelled or spotted. Occasionally C. Warneri is found ditli- cult to llower freely, and as often as not this is the result of keeping the plants too much shaded. The most free-flowering plants are those grown in baskets suspended not far from the roof glass, but this is not always convenient, and in a light position they will do well in pots. If the basket treatment is practised, let them be large enough to take the plants comfortably and allow of root extension. The same with pots, the roots dis- liking a large pot, while they must not be too much pinched. The present is a good time to repot or rebasket any plants that have flowered, taking them in hand directly the blossoms are past, as by this means the emission of roots which takes place now will help to establish them in the new materia!. The same with plants that for any reason have missed flowering. Very late bloom- ing plants may with advantage be left over until spring if not badly in need of new material. I have repottted C. Warneri as late as September, but possibly at this date no great advantage over spring potting accrues. If the plants keep well to their seasons the cultural routine otherwise is much the same as for C. Gaskelliana and C. labiata. In the best forms of C. Warneri the flowers are each upwards of 7 inches across, the tepals and petals a pretty bright rose with a i-uffusion of purple, the lip usually of a deeper tint with a very deep amethyst purple blotch in front ; the throat yellow with lines of rosy purple. Its variety imperialis is a splendid Cattleya, and there are others which might be named. The first time it flowered in England was with Mr. Warner, of Chelmsford, to whom it is dedicated. -H. R. Lselia crispa.— I have just flowered a lovely form of this old Orchid, quite a superior thing to the usual varieties. The flower is as large as that of a good L. purpurata, the characteristic fringed lip being very beautiful. It has the front port ion of the richest crimson-purple imaginable, shown up well by the golden yellow tint on the inside of the lateral lobes. The intensity of the colouring is remarkable, and should it prove constant it will be a splendid variety. The plant is a rine one, and was purchased as an unflowered specimen. Even the old forms of L. crispa are well worth growing for their brightness and free-flowering nature, and it is one of those useful old species that are not thought surticiently of now-a-days. Culturally, its reijuirements are much the same as those of I., purpurata, and the stronger it can be grown the better. The usual Cattleya house tempera- ture suits it admirably, and being very strong rooting the compost in every case must be very rough and open over good drainage. It is well if possible to keep it at rest after flowering, but this is not always easy, and, rather than force it to re^t, it is better to let the plants have their own way. Some will be found to keep naturally to their proper season, while others will not. A free .supply of moisture is necessary while growing and until the flowers are past and the pseudo- bulbs complete, rather less sufficing in winter. — II. R. Oncidium Lanceanum. — Very beautiful now are the flowers of this Oncidium, the deep choco- late-brown markings on the yellowish green ground and the various tints of rose upon the labellum making an unusual and very taking combination of colour. It belongs to the section of the genus without any pseudo-bulbs, the plants consisting of large deep green, purple spotted leaves. The flower-scapes appear in early sum- mer at the base of the newly-formed leaves, and bear few or many flowers according to the strength of the plant. The worst mistake in growing O. Lanceanum is to be always pulling it about at the roots, for it dislikes disturbance more than any other species. When preparing the compost for this plant I always use a good proportion of Sphagnum Moss and only a very little peat, as the former is not so liable to sour, and when de- caying may be more easily and with less damage removed. A large plant now in flower with me has not been disturbed since it was first planted — a newly-imported piece about six years ago. The growth is free, and it never fails to flower well annually. 0. Lanceanum likes a high tem- perature always and ample moisture both at the roots and in the atmosphere while growing. During the autumn the air may be kept a little drier with advantage, this having the effect of well ripening up the leaves. The plants bear almost full exposure to the sun in autumn with advantage. During the winter months the roots may be kept well on the dry side, the fleshy leaves acting in some part as pseudo-bulbs, and keeping the plants going during the w inter. — H. Flower Garden. IRIS HEXAGONA. Mr. Ley, in his interesting article of June 18, p. 510, notes that this species is not ijuite hardy in England. This complaint seems common among the English fanciers of the Iris. Irises often have certain vagaries, and one hesitates to diagnose cause of failure to grow or to ad- vance trustworthy cultural directions, but I venture the guess that the failure of I. hexa- gona in the open in England is probably due to plants having been obtained from the wrong localities, for I have in the garden plants which are as hardy as any Irises. The owner of a garden is apt to think his climate the worst in the world, but in our latitude the constantly varying winter temperature, sometimes ].j^ F., is very trying to plants, as much so probably as in any English location. My experience is that northern forms of I. hexagona are as hardy as I. sibirica, and southern forms quite tender. This species occurs in the middle west, as far north at least as Missouri, and in the south as far east as Florida. The forms vary little ex- cept in colouring and size of flowers, but the constitution seems to be affected by the habitat. The white form spoken of by Mr. Ley is evi- dently a sport, as seedlings revert to blue colouring. Blue forms vary from faint blue to the rich colouring of that known as var. La Mance. The veinings or markings on the lighter-coloured flowers are more extended and prominent than on the darker forms. The rhizomes of I. hexagona are strong, vigorous, and not easily turned a.side ; they have here penetrated so densely-growing a thing as the roots of Panicum virgatum. Aside from open root-room, they re(iuire no other care than that given (icrman hybrids, but I would suggest that owing to their flowering habit they be not allowed to become crowded. The leafy bloom- ing stems are shoiter than the leaves and are partly prostrate at flowering time, so that unless the plants are grown thinly the flowers are partly hidden, and the plants not so efl'ectivo in the border. J. N. Gerakd. Eti:.(iljelk, New Jarmy. LILIUM SPECIOSUM IN BLOOM. The different varieties of L. speciosum flower naturally in the open ground during the latter part of August and onwards, and atone time they were considered ditticult to force prematurely into bloom. Such is, however, not the case now, and those that make a speciality of flowering L. speciosum have plenty of blooms by the end of June. Though enormous numbers of bulbs reach this country from Japan, for early flowering those from Holland are preferred, for as a rule they can be obtained earlier, and consequently have a good start over the others, added to which the Dutch bulbs seem to lend themselves better to culture under glass. For early flowering the bulbs must be potted as soon as possible, and in doing this space should be left at the top for a good dressing later on. Though the market grower attains wonderful results in a 4^inch pot, yet in a general way 6 inch pots are the most convenient for these Lilies, unless a large mass or clump is desired, when of course several bulbs must be put into a large pot. When potted in the autumn they may be placed in a cokl frame, the object of doing so being to ward off any very heavy rains which are often experienced about that period. They should be protected from frost either by covering or removing them indoors, and in any case as the shoots make their appearance above ground the plants must be taken into a greenhouse and a good light position assigned them. This latter is very essential, even if a little more heat later on becomes necessary, for if shaded or too much crowded together the stems of this Lily cjuickly elongate. As the pots get full of roots occasional doses of liquid manure are of service. As above stated, the varieties from Holland are by most growers preferred to those from .Japan for very early flowering, and among other features these Dutch forms are not so liable to turn yellow and die off when growing as the Japanese occa- sionally do. As this disease, whatever it is, pre- vails extensively among imported Liliumauratum, it may be that in the case of L. speciosum it is contracted by associating with bulbs of L. aura- tum, as the two are often sent in one consignment. The varieties preferred for early flowering are roseum or rubrum — for the two names are used so indiscriminately that it is useless to separate them — and album, a very desirable kind. This last differs from the Japanese Kra-tzeri (which is often sold as album) in many well-marked par- ticulars. The variety Kr:etzeri has, generally speaking, a yellowish coloured bulb, rather pale green leaves, with the stem and leaf-stalks of much the same colour. In the flower the segments reflex in a very regular manner. They are white, w'ith the exception of a greenish stripe which occupies the basal half of the middle of each segment. The buds, too, are green. The album of the Dutch cultivators is totally distinct therefrom, the bulbs being of a deep mahogany colour, deeper, indeed, than those of any other variety, while the stem, leaf-stalks, and unopened buds are all heavily tinged with chocolate. The exterior of the flower, too, is of the same hue. In the inside the ex- panded blossom is of a clear soft white without the green tinge of Kra'tzeri. The only approach to colouring is that in some individuals after the flowers have been open a few days they become slightly suffused with blush. Like most other Lilies, these varieties of L. speciosum when grown under glass are somewhat liable to the attacks of 56 THE GARDEN. [July 23, 1898. aphides, but nothing like to the same extent as the forms of L. longiflorum, notably Harrisi. In any case fumigation or dipping in some of the various insecticides will soon rid them of the pest. This must be done as soon as the aphides are noticed, for they increase very rapidly, and permanently injure the buds while they are still small. T. LILIUM TESTACEUM. Though opinions may differ as to the comparative merits of the many beautiful Lilies that we have now in our gardens, this is certainly entitled to a foremost place, while it is one of the most distinct of the entire genus. It has been many times noted in The Garden, but is so charming just now when in full bloom as to well merit a passing notice. We have very few hybrid Lilies in general cultiva- tion, but this is one of them, the parents being the Madonna Lily (L. candidum) and the scarlet Turk's-cap (L. chalcedonicum), the prominent characteristics of the two being blended in the progeny. The segments of this Lily are a good deal reflexed, nearly as much as in the Turk's-cap section, while they are borne in a somewhat open head, each blossom being disposed horizontally or nearly so. The colour of the flower is a peculiar yet remarkably pleasing shade of nankeen or buff, against which the bright red anthers stand out very conspicuously. The blossoms of this Lily, which are pleasantly scented, are a little later in expanding than those of L. candidum, while L. chalcedonicum is later still. L. testaceum is occasionally met with under the names of Isabel- linum and excelsum. This latter name is by no means an inappropriate one, for though the height varies according to situation and other particulars, yet when well established and under favourable conditions it will run up from 6 feet to 7 feet. These tall stems, though sufficiently stout to carry the large head of blossoms, are not at all stiff, swaying as they do with a gentle breeze. As a rule, the foliage is well retained till the flowering period is over. The flowers being borne in a horizontal manner are seen to better advan- tage on tall stems than short. The bulb is a good deal in the way of L. candidum, but it does not push up radical leaves in the autumn as the white Lily does. With the exception of this last it is, however, the earliest Lily to start into growth in the spring, and though so early and the young foliage so tender, it seems proof against cold and cutting winds. L. testaceum, which is finely grown by some of the Dutch cultivators, succeeds in a good garden soil that is well drained, and at the same time is not dried up during the summer months. It can be depended upon to flower well the first season after planting, and is very satis- factory when grown in pots. Gr(.]wer. LILIUM BROWNl AND L. ODORUM. It is rather surprising that such a state of con fusion prevails with regard to these two distinct Lilies, for they are readily distinguished from each other by many well-marked features. In this country we, as a rule, obtain our stock of L. Browni from Holland, and of L. odorum from Japan. This latter is often sold in London auction rooms as L. Browni, and this is doubtless the cause of the confusion that exists, though as soon as the leaves develop the difference can be readily detected. The bulbs of L. Browni are quite distinct from those of any other Lily, being narrow at the base and gradually widening up- wards, witli a peculiarly flattened top. They are more or less tinged with reddish brown. The leaves are long, narrow, and tapering to a sharp point. They are also of a dark green tint. The stem, which is, particularly towards the lower part, tinged with purple, is at the base almost destitute of leaves for some little distance. The flowers are large, funnel-shaped, and of an un- usually thick wax-like texture ; inside they are of an ivory-white tint, but heavily tinged with chocolate on the exterior of the three outer seg- ments, so that the unopened bud is entirely of a reddish brown hue. The dark brown anthers are very conspicuous against the rest of the flower, but in showery weather the pollen is quickly washed on to the petals and mars the beauty thereof. In L. odorum the base of the bulb is broad, while the centre is slightly raised, and the colour is yellowish, as in L. longiflorum. As soon as they appear above ground it will be seen that the shoots of L. odorum are green, while those of L. Browni are reddish brown. The leaves of L. odorum are short, broad, rounded at the tip, thin in texture, and of a pale green. The flowers, too, differ from those of Browni in being rather more shallow and with less brown on the exterior, while when first opened they have a slight creamy tint. They are also more agreeably scented, for L. Browni after being opened a day or two is far less pleasant than at first. L. odorum is sometimes known as L. japonioum Colchesteri. Some newer forms of this section of Lilies have flowered within the last few years at Kew, and though, perhaps, some of them may show a leaning towards one or other of the above- named species, the fact remains that L. Browni as grown by the Dutch and L. odorum from Japan are two perfectly distinct Lilies. H. P. IRIS K.-KMPFERI AT WISLEY. The thousands of plants growing in Mr. Wilson's \\'isley garden have this season produced countless numbers of blooms, which, as regards brilliancy, purity, form, and size, leave nothing to be de- sired. This noble Iris, which in its true form is without an equal for the summer decoration of the outdoor garden, is, like many hardy culti- vated flowers, liable to be affected by the vicis- situdes of our changeable chmate. It is note- worthy that Japanese plants, though generally insensible to periods of severe frost, seem unable to stand without suffering the cold easterly winds which frequently prevail with us in early spring, and many of them are extremely sensitive to the action of late spring frosts. The difficulties at- tending the culture of this .lapanese Iris in English gardens are accentuated by the fact that it demands a never-failing supply of moisture at the roots, and must at the same time have full exposure to the sun, with a free circulation of air. With its heels in a bog and its head in the full blaze of the sun Iris Kiempferi is quite happy. Just when the plants are coming into flower, the soil should be at saturation point, and this is where failures are so apt to occur, as the month of June is frequently very dry and parching. By setting this Iris in beds of prepared soil, so that the plants may receive all necessary attention to guard them against checks, it is, of course, pos- sible to ensure a certain amount of success ; but this is not the way practised at \\'isley, neither is it the way calculated to display the characteris- tics of this gorgeous hardy flower. The common yellow Iris of our streams and rivers loses half its beauty when transplanted from its surround- ings. Deprived of the association of the grasses, Reeds, Sedges, and other waterside plants which keep it company in a natural state, its charac- teristic features are in a great measure lost. One may say as much of Iris Ksempferi, which is as much a waterside plant as our own native spe- cies. However well it may be grown in the ordi- nary border, its beauty cannot so well be realised as when it is placed near the water and associated with things with which it harmonises. In one place this Iris fringes a piece of water which is tenanted by Cape Pondweed, the newer Water Lilies, and other water plants and waterside things. On the banks the natural vegetation is allowed to push up, only very coarse things being kept down. The hoe and the fork do not go near them. Wild grasses come up and touch the blooms, and native plants of lowly growth can ramble at will. It is a pretty picture, with trees in the background, big white, yellow, and pink Lily blooms resting on the water, giant Gunneras and other things on the other side, with a glimpse of yellow Lilies on the rising ground, and the many-hued Iris flowers fringing the bank. It is, perhaps, as natural an arrangement as it is pos- sible to effect by artificial means. In other places this Iris occupies in the form of large clumps the border of miniature lakes, and in all cases bear- ing blooms of such quality as to prove that the plants are quite at home. In a more elevated portion of the garden, and where the natural herbage has been allowed to cover the soil, a deep ditch has been made, which, running in serpen- tine fashion, traverses the meadow from one corner to the other. The excavated earth forms banks, on which among the native growth are established such things as Tree Lupines, Day Lilies, and Iris sibirica, the last coming into flower and making a display before its more gorgeous relative comes into bloom. Through the whole length of this miniature valley Kajmpfer's Iris is blooming and looking happy, many of the plants now in flower being produced by simply sowing the seeds in the damp bottom and allowing them to come on without disturbance. On the level ground one sees irregularly distri- buted the blooms just topping the grass, the effect of which is very pleasing and so natural that one could almost fancy that this Iris belongs to the native flora of the locality. J. C. Byfieet. Polygonum sachalinense.— Several kinds of PolygODums are ornamental. 1 find it best to grow them in a somewhat sheltered spot to shield them from the late spring frost, as they begin to grow early. Kecently, when at Dillington Park, I observed several big masses of the variety above named. They were at home at the edge of a shrubbery border, with varijus-foloured Khododendrons growing near them. These were in bloom, and made a good set-off to the large strong shoots of this, which we-e from 10 feet to 12 feet liigh. I saw this growing well in a sheltered spot at Longleat some years ago. — Dorset. Tufted Pansy Christiana. — Although this excellent tufted sort was not recognised by the floral committee at the meeting at Chiswick, it is undoubtedly deserving of a position in the front rank. It is very free-flowering. The blooms are produced on long footstalks, which enable the flowers to stand out well above the foliage, while its habit is an ideal one. The blossoms are oval in shape, of a creamy white colour, with a yellow suffusion running from the eye into the lower petal. It is also a most continuous blossoming sort.— A. H. Lilium g'iganteum at Wisley. — Lilium gig mteum has been very fine at Wisley this year. It is grown in sheltered situations among trees and evergreens, and has thrown up flower- stems nearly 10 feet high. Every leaf seems to be in perfect condition, fresh and green, un- touched by snails, and not in any way affected by the weather. When this Lily can be managed in this way it is one of the finest of Nature's pro- ductions. It is of noble growth, and yet neither flowers nor foliage exhibit any signs of coarseness. — J. C. B. Tufted Pansy White Empress. — This is indeed a handsome flower, being of large pro- portions and freely produced. I cannot, how- ever, agree with a recent correspondent that this variety is one of the whitest flowers in cultiva- tion. It may be described as a pale creamy white, with a neat yellow eye and rayless, but there are several sorts many degrees whiter than this. All the same, growers of these flowers should make a note of this variety, as, although it has a vigorous habit, yet it is tufted. The flower-stalks are rather short. — C. A. H. Tafted Pansy Magie. — As there is a dearth of really good rose-coloured flowers among the Tufted Pansies, this variety should make a wel- come addition. It is now beautiful, its nu- merous growths literally covered with blossoms of large size and good form. It is the best thing in this way that has been introduced for a long time, and those on the look-out for a first-class sort would be well advised to secure this novelty. The flowers open a deep rose, but as they age the colour pales off into a soft clear rose. It is the best rose-coloured flower that I know. — D. July 23, 1898.] THE GARDEN. SAXIFRAGA LONGIFOLIA AND OTHKRS. Thk flowering of Saxifrages on rockwork in English gardens, which begins with S. Biirseri and S. sancU in January and continues till nearly the end of summer, may l)o said to attain its greatest development in June, when Saxifraga longifolia is in Howor. As an orna- ment this is, perhaps, the most striking of all the Saxifrages, whether we see it when length- ened out into its fine jiyramid of white flowers or as a silver-edged rosette a foot or more across, waiting to flower for another season. The species is native only in the Pyrenees, where it grows in the crevices of the perpen- dicular rocks, sending out horizontally its beau- tiful cone-shaped panicle 'i feet or more in length, waving to and fro in the breeze. As 57 the commonest species with which it cro.sses in ! its own home being S. Aizoon. The finest specimens are single crowns, and, as in all the encrusted Saxifrage--, a crown dies after it has lengthened out and flowered. Nearly all the plants of S. longifolia flower once and then dis- appear, so the stock has to be renewed from seed. Seed should of course be saved from the finest individuals, but when many species flower together, as they do in English gardens, there is always danger of taint from some inferior kind, for these Saxifrages all cross readily. Seed should be sown in pans filled with riddled limestone between the size of wheat grains and mustard seed, and mixed with one-fourth part or less of good loam. 1'he seedlings come up very slowly, being at least two years before they are an inch across. They should not be transplanted to the rockwork till they are '.i inches across, prejudice against those in it which are reallv g"0'l- C. WOLLBY-DOU. Notes from Baden-Baden.— Stachys gran ii- flora, although not a now plant, is seldom met with true to name ; it is, moreover, a very showy handsome hardy pereimial well worth havin be attacked. Here, under favourable conditions of warmth and moisture, the spore germinates, just as a seed would do in the ground, and sends out a little sprout. This sprout grows on the surface of the leaf or fruit for a time and then enters into the tissues of the plant, either through one of the minute openings, called breathing pores, which are quite abundant on the surface of many parts of plants, especially the leaves, or else it bores directly into the plant. Once inside, it branches and grows about through the tissues of the plant, just as roots grow in the ground. It takes up the juices of the lost plant and appropriates them to its own use, and finally, when it has completed its growth, it bears its fruit, produc- ing spores like that from which it started. These spores are usually dark in colour and are produced at or near the surface of the host plant. They are .so abinidant as to give to that particular spot a dark colour. It is these spores which give the characteristic appearance to the disease known as " black spot " of the Apple. This, in brief, is the history of a typical fungoid plant. Many of them vary in some particular, but this is sufficiently accurate to .serve our purpose. Now let us see what points we can observe which may aid us in applying our sprays so as to accomplish the most good. In the first jjlace it is quite evident that in dealing with these j)ests all our apjilications must be preventive, and not remedial. For when once the fungoid plant gains access to the leaf or fruit, it is beyond the reach of sprays, and can be destroyed only by destroying also the part ati'ected. We must, therefore, begin to spray early, or the enemy will get ahead of us, and gain access to the plant before we are aware of it. Secondly, we must keep the plant pro- tected with our sprays so long as there is any danger from the attacks of the fungus. And, lastly, since the spores are so very small, we must use every precaution to see that all parts of the jilant are reached by the spray, and not only upon the spore alighting upon the particular spot where we have prepared for its reception. I would suggest the following treatment for the "black spot" of the Apple, or leaf blights, which are a fair sample of this class of disease : First, spray the trees, before the buds begin to swell in the spring, with a solution of copper sulphate or bluestone, 1 lb. to l.j gallons of water. Let me emphasise the fact that this must be done before the buds swell in the least, or they may be injured by the treatment. Next, as .soon as the leaves are well " out," spray with Bordeaux mixture, and continue to spray with this latter whenever an application is needed. As to the number of times to sjiray, that depends greatly on the weather. If there is no rain, a single apijlication may last for two or three weeks, but with heavy rains a second application may be needed in as many hours. From two to six will usually be sufficient, according to season and variety. The labour of preparing Bordeaux mixture can be very materially lessened by the use of what is called a stock solution of the copper-sulphate. That is, instead of weighing out (5 lbs. of bluestone and dissolving it each time that you wish to prepare a barrel of the mixture for u.se, instead of this, dissolve, at the beginning of the season, a (|uantity of the bluestone in water, say at the rate of 1 lb. of bluestone to 1 gallon of water. Then all that is necessary, when you are ready to spraj', is to measure out (J gallons of this solution, and you have ed Peas generally on light soils. The pods are borne singly or in pairs for the greater part of the length of the haulm, and there is every .sign of its being a continuous bearer, a great merit in a Marrowfat Pea of the larger type, amonc which so many have only a short season. In quality and colour it is first-class, being very sweet. I The stock as sent to me is well selected, and appears to be (juite true to character. One hopes that this will be retained, and that the falling off which was noticeable with Gradus a year or two after it was sent out will not be repeated. — J. C. T.M.LACK. I Spinach as a catch, crop.— In gardens where the soil is liarht it is a very good plan to sow any ground which falls vacant through clearing of early crops, and which is not wanted for other things, with Spinach, odd rows of which come in useful as long as they can be allowed to remain to provide supplies, which obviates the necessity of beginning on the winter Spinach proper until it has got strong. Such catch crops do good in more ways than one. The slight preparation the surface requires kills ofl' multitudes of seedling weeds, and the Spinach itself keeps down later weed growth, while it tends also to neatness, as ' nothing looks worse about a garden than to see ' rows of spent Peas and other things standing about the ground accompanied bj' the attendant weeds, which have escaped the hoe in a busy time. I When no longer wanttd, or when the annual dig- ; ging reijuires to be done, the Spinach can be turned in green, and is of great benefit to the soil. In closely-cropped gardens there is seldom any opportunity for letting ground lie fallow I during any part of the growing sea.son, but it sometimes happens that a plot has to lie idle for a time or be occupied with a catch crop such as I advise, and of the two the latter is preferable. Spinach seed is cheap, and it takes but little to sow quite a large plot. Probably on heavier soil the crop taken would hardly rep.ay for the trouble of preparing the surface, and no benefit ' would accrue from digging in a green crop later, j but where it partakes of the nature of a sand- heap, as it does here, its value is undoubted. — J. C. T. SUMMEFv LETTUCES. TuE season in many respects has been a trouble- some one for Lettuces, both spring and summer. In my case the greatest inconvenience was caused by the slugs. Fretjuent sowings were made in the ordinary course to meet the demands, which are continuous, but in many instances they had to be repeated on the same ground without even then getting a sufficient crop. But for the frequent sowings made the supply would have fallen very short of that needed. Lime and soot, dry wood ashes and burnt refuse were applied often without much effect, so far as concerned the number of slugs and their destructive work. I cannot remember another season when there were such numbers to be dealt with and their destruction so ditficult to accomplish. For the early summer cutting Commodore Nutt and Early Paris Market were most useful. The latter is a fine Lettuce, both in size, appearance and quality, but, unfor- tunately, in hot spells of summer weather it soon runs to seed. Commodore Nutt, though small, is a most reliable little Lettuce and one I always sow for the early supply in frames. Cos varieties for a firstcropinsummercome from the autumn sowings, and the winter being mild, both the Bath Brown Cos and Hicks' Hardy White developed into very fine and well-blanched heads. The latter is self-fold- ing. A very good sort, suited to the require- ments of a large household or market sunnly, is Sutton's (ii.ant Cabbage. In good soil this de- velops .a wonderful head and (|uito jiistifios its name. When matured, too, there is no loss of quality, such as sometimes com"s from coarse veiretahles. To get the heads full si/.fid, the plants need plenty of room. Perfect fjem still maintains its reputation. So good was this con- sidered last year, that I was re(|Ufisted to crow more of it this summer. It his a depth of colour ((uite its own. In the curled kinds, ■• hieh are favourites with simc, the old Neapolitan has a rival in New York, although the oriffinal still claims notice. These, beside l)eing attnaotive in appearance, are good eating, and, unlike some of the smooth-leaved sorts, remain a long time be- fore running to seed, which in summer is such a trouble when the weather continues dry even for a short time. In soils of a, dry nature these curled sorts should be more extensively grown. They would app<»ar, however, to need a longer time to become fully developed than the smoother and compact-growing kinds. All the Year Round is too well known to need any special notice. Like the preceding, it will stand a good deal of summer weather before running to seed. Stanstead Park is useful for the autumn. In summer Cos, Carter's Mammoth is, as its name implies, a large, and it mav be said, an ex- cellent Lettuce, and it is self-folding. Superb Cos, selected by all seedsmen as the mainstay of the summer supply, deserves particular mention. Any list would be incomplete without it. It is need- less, however, to individualise, be-^ause .aU are so uniformly good. The White .and Green ParisCos are grown largely by some, the latter is particu- larly good tor sowing in summer for autumn use, when there is sometimes a difficulty with others. It has a strong constitution and grows freely when some others make but little headway. A long list of varieties is not needed by those having only a small supply to meet. There is an advantage, too, when a kind is proved in any par- ticular garden and found satisfactory, in standing by it. It is only under trial that the merits or de- merits can be known, and .apart from the educa- tional point raised by trials, there is an interest in noting the development and the time the kinds remain fit for use, once they have arrived at a matured stage. For a small garden three or four sorts selected from the Cabbage or Cos sections, whichever finds the greater favour by those for whom thej- may be requited, would be ample for all seasons. For sowing now there is an advantage in having firm soil ; in this there is a greater reserve of moisture for the tiny plants to utilise, but a watering of the drills or beds in the evening of warm days ensures a greater success in seed ger- mination, and a steady progress in the plants. Where there is not the time for this, mulching the drills, after they are sown and watered, will con- serve the moisture for a few days, further additions to be made as often as there is the material and the need for doing it. Transplanting is not worth the time and trouble it takes to do at this time of year. Blanks occur sometimes in seed beds simply from the absence of moisture in and about the surface soil, which is often proved after ram showers. Artificial watering will bring about the same results if followed up daily and some means taken to lessen evaporation. Slugs must not be forgotten even in dry weather. Bood Ashton. W. S. Pea May ftueen for autumn sowing. — Those who need an autumn supply of Peas will do well to make a sowing in .luly, and unless some care is taken in selection of variety the best re- sults are not always obtained. .May (Jueen is one of the best kinds for the purpo.se on account of its rapid growtli, freedom from mildew, and fine marrow fla\our. Though not a true marrow it is so good that no fault will be found as regards its r|uality. One advantage this variety possesses is its dwarf habit. May (^)aeen will only need '2-feet 66 THE GARDEN. [JoLY 23. 1898 sticks and may be sown in rows 3 feet apart, and to gain time I find it well to soak the seed a short time before sowing. — S. M. Potato Famous. — With me Famous is a failure, but this may be owing to the soil. Other kinds adjoining, such as Ringleader, Veitch's Ashleaf, and some American varieties are crop- ping well. I grew it last year and it was not so good as others — indeed, the crop was poor. I determined to give it another trial, and again the crop failed, so that this variety will not be grown again. I am pleased to note that it does well with " A. \V." I liked this variety when it was first sent out. My best Potato this year — far before Victor as regards crop and earliness also — is Ninety-fold. I would ask "A. W." to give this a trial, and in addition to crop, the inches and uite apart from the colour point of view there is a charm in their informal and waving petals that can only be seen in the garden, and best perhaps where the greensward IS not too far removed. Moisture during growth they certainly appreciate, but the margin of a lake or pond is no longer a necessity for these gorgeous flowers of .July. Given good and deep, thoroughly enriched soil, there is not the slightest reason, if planted in due time, why a considerable measure of success should not result. On quite dry soil with heavy dressings of manure I have grown and flowered this Iris in great numbers and variety.— A Grower. A fine Daffodil bulb.— We are sending you a bulb of Narcissus Emperor taken from a batch of some .')000 growing here in our grounds. Though we cultivate annually many thousands of ISarcissi and are familiar with Irish, English Guernsey, and Dutch grown bulbs, we believe this crop exceeds anything that has ever before been seen here or anywhere else. The bulb sent measures just 1 foot in circumference, and is one out of three which turned the scale at 2 lb. Sicmlar results in the same grounds are ob- tained with bulbs of ttie varieties bicolor Em- press and Sir Watkin, which, though yearly very large, this year have increased to mammoth size .Judging from their broad and rich fohage whilst growing and the immense blooms, we ex- pected to see some fine bulbs, but nothing like so phenomenal as is this year the case.— Louis v\n HoUTTE, Ghent. Acantholimon venustum.— This charming alpine is now gay with its pretty pink flowers, the latter much later than usual this year. In lery gritty loam the plant ofl'ers but little dirti- culty to the cultivator so far as growim^ it is concerned, but it is quite another (luestion to talk of increasing it by the usual methods of cuttings, division, or seeds." I have many times tried to save seed and failed, and am this year taking special precautions in this direction. 1 ertihsation in the ordinary way appears to be rendered void by the curious manner the petals have of folding up and recoiling within and deep down into the calyx. The only way of avoiding this is to draw out the petals at an early stage, but in this way also you sacrifice the stamens and of course the anthers, the pistil also at times being either withdrawn or injured. So far I have only succeeded with a very small proportion of cuttings. — E. J. Salvia cadmica. — Among the seeds sent to this country by our generous friend Mr. Edward Whittall, of Smyrna, were some labelled Salvia cadmica. According to the " Index Kewensis " Boissier is the authority for the species, and I think it probable that the plants produced by the seeds sent are quite correctly named. Mr. A. K. Bulley, of West Kirby, Cheshire, flowered this species a year before my plants came into bloom, and was much pleased with it. It has flowered here for, I think, three summers, and although rather large for the position in which I have it, this Sage is pretty enough to be worth retaining. On rockwork it forms a spreading bush of hoary green leaves with a pronounced, but, to me, not exactly pleasant, odour when touched. The flowers are arranged in long, loose sjakes, and are pale lavender in colour with white markings. It is more suitable for the border than for the rock garden. S. cadmica comes from Asia Minor and is quite hardy with me. It grows about 2 feet high.- S. Arnott, Cdrxethorn, liy Dumfries, N.£. Notes from Carter, Co. Kildare. — I was at Carton the other day. The Roses, Water Lilies, and the great pergola, built by the late Duchess Hermione, are lovely now. The pergola is 100 yards long, 10 feet wide inside, 14 feet high, and well built and paved with brick. It is topped with peeled Oak and covered with Spini-as, Roses, Vines, Clematises. &c., and the narrow borders inside are furnished with hardy plants in pots. The whole thing is a fresh and beautiful open-air conserN atory, and I have seen nothing like it outside of South France and Italy. Its position is good on grass near a row of fine Yews. Every year will see it more beautiful, and it really forms a fitting memorial of one who loved all things beautiful and knew how to grow her flowers. Tho Rose garden at the cottage is lovely, Crimson Rambler, Brunonis, Austrian Copper, white rugosa, and the garden hybrids being very free and bright as backed by the red-tiled roof and the fine old Cedars and Beech trees. — F. W. B., A note from America. — I wish you could have seen the Trilliums in May when they were in bloom. There was literally a bed of them three miles long, and a more beautiful display I doubt if you ever saw. The south sides of the hill are covered with Bloodroot, and where the Trilliums grow there are acres of Dicentra cucul- laria. Rubus odorata is in full bloom now and will continue flowering until autumn. The foliage and flower of this Raspberry are both extremely effective. Sambucus pubens — I think you know it in England as Sambucus racemosa— although a scarce shrub in this country, is very plentiful just across the river, and is very effective now and will be for some time with its plentiful crop of crimson berries. The common Elderberry (Sam- bucus canadensis) is just coming into flower, and often the two species can be seen growing to- gether, the crimson berries of the one contrasting prettily with the white flowers of the other. Wild Azaleas we have and Kalmia latifolia by the acre, and a week or two ago I discovered large patches of the daintiest of all our wild flowers - the trailing Arbutus. Notwithstanding the shyness of this retiring beauty, I have suc- ceeded in establishing a large patch of it in my garden. Mertensia virginica, Phlox divaricata, Silene virginica— in fact, almost all our wild flowers— are very plentiful hereabouts, excepting the Cypripedium, of which there does not seem to be any in this neighbourhood. Tho crowning glory of our spring woods here is the large- flowered white Dogwood, and I wish you could have seen about 100 acres of it when it was in bloom in a wooded ravine about a mile from my house. This ravine is an open wood, and all the undergrowth is Dogwood, bushy little trees ranging from 8 feet to 10 feet high up to 20 feet. — J. W. Elliott, Piltshunj, .June I'l. Public Gardens. Prince George's Ground, Eaynes Park.— The C'lotliworkers C jmpany have given £100 towards the £10,000 Khioh the London Playing Fields Com- mittee are tryiug to raise to purchase Prince Georee's Ground. Haynes Park, as a permacent playiug field for Londoners of the poorer classes. The total sum secured up to date, including contributions promised c nditionally on ihe purchase being completed, now amounts to nearly £500(1. The Physic Garden at Chelsea.— Mr. Whit- more (Chelsea) asked the hon. member for the Thirsk Division of Yorkshire, as a Charity Com- missioner, whether he was aware that the Society of Apothecaries had resolved that it could no longer maintain the Physic (Jarden at Chelsea ; and whether, in view of this decision and in order to preserve this ancient garden, the Charity Corn- mission would be willing to sanction its acquisi- tion by the governing body of the City parochial charities and its subsequent maintenance by them as a botanical garden. Mr. Grant Lawson (York, N.R., Thirsk) in reply said that the Society of Apothecaries as trustees of the Physic • Jarden at Chelsea have applied to the Charity Commissioners for the establishment of a scheme for the future administration of the trusts regu- lating the garden, which is now maintained at the charge of their corporate funds, and they desire to be relieved from the trusteeship. The Com- missioners have received from the trustees of the London parochial charities an ofier to undertake the trusteeship of the garden and to make a pro- vision for its maintenance for the purposes of botanical study, which appears to be sutiicient for that purpose. The Commissioners accordingly propose to publish a scheme giving general effect to tnese proposals. Foyal Horticultural Society. — The next fiuit and floral meet ng of the Royal Horticu'tural Scciety will be held on Tuesday, July 26, in tlie_ Drill Hall, Jame' Street, Westminster, from 1 to 5 p.m. Bamboos will he a special feature at this show, and at Sci'clcckMr. A. B. Freeman-Mitford,C B., will lecture on the '■ EcOQoaiic Uses of Bamboos." The weather in "West Herts.— The [last week was the warmest as yet experienced this yejr. The night temperatures were, as a rule, imt little warmer than is seasonable, but en two days the highest readings in shade exceeded 80 degrees. On the 14th the difference between the lowest and highest readings in the thermo- meter screen amounted to as much as .32 degrees. At the present time the soil both at 1 foot and 2 feet deep is about 2 degrees warmer than the •luly average. A tenth of an inch of rain fell during the early morning hours of the 19th, but previous to this none had fallen for more than a fo'-tniijht. No rain water at all has come through '"the 2i feet of soil in either of my percofation gauges for nearly a week. During the five days ending the 18th the sun shone brightly on an average for over eleven hours a day.— E. M., Berkhamsted. Clematises dying off. — I bought a full collec- tion of Clematises early in the year from one of the houses most f.imous for them, and I am sorry to fay they are all dying otT one by one, someiinies quite sud- denly. Thfy are planted in newlv-made and deep soil, in the best situations, agaiost walls and corners.^ Can any of jour readers kindly tell me what they think is the cause of t'lis ?— V. Names of plants.— J. Croot— Clematis recta. Bit'jh H7ii?t' — Oncidium crispum. .1. K. — Serapias cordigera. W. O. H — Lathyrus sativus vtr. cceruleus (see The G.\rden, p. 401. F.M.B. — Loots like Helianthus decapetalus, but would like to know height, W 0. H.—\, thecommou Bug- loss ; 2, CotTledon umbilicus. i THE GARDEN. No. 1393.— Vol. LIV.] [JULY 30, 1898. Orchard and Fmlt :— Apple Cox's Poruoua ,. .. 75 Apple Crimsou Queening ,, 75 Cherry Elton 75 Melon Countess of Derby .. 75 Melon Diamond Jubilee ., 7S Melon The Czar 75 Peach Exquisite 74 Peach Salway 75 l{jisptierrios 74 Strawberry, an early .. .. 75 Strawberry forcing 73 Strawberry Lady Suffield .. 73 Strawberry Latest of All ., 74 Strawberry Leader . . . . 74 Strawberry Louia Gauthier.. 75 Strawberry Monarch . . . . 74 Strawberries, notes on . . . . 74 The Market Garden:— Peaches and NeetJirinoa for market 75 Trees and Shrnbs :— Abutilon vitifoUum .. ,. 78 Crintxiendron Hookeri .. .. 77 Escallonia Ungleyensis . . .. 78 Magnolia pumtla 78 Magnolia Watsonl 78 \ Ozothamn\i3 rosmarinifoUus 77 j Philadelphus Lemoinei . . . . 78 j Pieria formoaa 77 I Pii ris formosa a t Pen tillie I Castle, Conucall 77 Ribes Bpeciosum ». . . . . 77 Robinia Mspida 77 Flower :— Campanula coltidifolia .. .. 78 Codonopsis ovata 81 Crocus Imperati and C. ver- nus 79 Crocua Imperati at liilye Hall 79 Chorus vernus lexicorrhtinchvs 79 Epilobiuiu angustifoliiim .. 79 Eryngium Olivcrianimj , . 78 Lilium Browni 81 Lilium Henryi 78 Liiium Lowi 78 Lythrum roseum 81 Ostrowskia niagTii6ca .. .. 79 Pansies, Tufted, at Trent Park . . . . 80 Pansies, Tiifted, exhibiting,. 78 Pelargonium Eleanor .. .. 81 Plants, hardy 78 Plants, notes on hardy .. .. SO Saxifrages, notes on the early 79 (Illustrations in Italics.) Garden Flora:— Tri nnia aurm Tritonuis Week's Work :— Fruit garden, work in the .. 8i Kitchen garden, work in the 83 Orohlde ;— Cattloya Hardyana 85 Cypripedium Pcarcei ., .. 85 Cypripediiim Sedeni .. .. 86 Dendrochilum filiforme . . . . 85 Epidendrum Braasavolaa .. 86 Epidendrum coclileatum .. 86 La^lia elegans 85 Masdevallia macrura .. ., 86 Odontoglossum madrense . . 86 Odontoglosaum Pescatorei . . 86 Oncidium incurvum .. .. 86 Oncidium PapUio 35 Roaea :— Rosa gigantea 87 Rose A. Maile 87 Rose Alister SteUa Gray . . 87 Rose Golden Fairy 87 Rose Jean Ducher .. .. »« 87 Rose Joseph Bemacchl . . . . 87 Rose Julea Finger 87 Rose Mme. Jules Grole/, .. 87 Rose Mme. Lambard .. .. 87 Ruse Mme. Pierre Cochet .. 87 Rose Mrs. John Laing .. •- 87 Rose Souvenir de Lieutenant Bujon 87 Rosea at Compton House .. 87 Roaea, Monthly 87 Stove and Greenhonae:— Asparagus Sprengeri . . . . 88 Anparaij\i-s Sprciigcri ., .. 88 Pelargoniums, notes on . . . 83 Sootetles :— Royal Horticultural .. .. 89 Books :— " Pansies, Violas and Violets " 91 Motes of the Week \— Abutilon Golden Fleece . . 92 Aquilegia Stuarti 92 Begonia Fairy Queen .. .. 92 Carnation Alice Ayres .. .. 92 Carnation Mrs. Frank Watts 92 Carnation Raby Castle .. . . 92 Erigeron mucronatua .. ., 92 Flame Klower, the 92 Fuchsia Ballet Girl 92 Lilies, Martagon, at Kirkcon- nel 92 Nertera depressa 92 Oenothera speciosa 92 Pansy, Tufted, A. J. Row- berry, seedlings from . . . 92 Pelar^-nium, Ivy - leaved, Galilee 92 Pentstemon lafvigatus , . . . 92 Plagius granditli r la . . » 92 Plants, two beautiful bog .. 92 Rose Her Majesty 92 Roses, the old, at Kirkconnel 92 Verbena Ellen Willmott .. 92 Mlsoellaneons :— Flowers, arrangement of ,.86 Gardeners, an address to ,. 81 Iris Kfempferi 85 Roses, Christmas 86 Orchard and Fruit Garden. STRAWBERRY FORCING. Forced Strawberries are much valued here, and I grow about 1000 plants. For the first lot I grow La Grosse Sucree and Royal Sovereign. The latter I use for succession, including a batch or two of Laxton's Noble, the fruit of which Ls handsome, but lacking flavour and sub- stance. Royal Sovereign is a much superior fruit, as we get size, flavour, good colour, firm flesh, and it is a splendid cropper. It is very important to have strong and well matured plants. I layer into small pieces of turf about 3 inches square which has been stacked long enough to kill vegetation. The best runners are obtained from plants put out the previous year. If the soil is kept moist the runners will be ready to be detached from tlie parent plants in three weeks, when the bits of turf will be well tilled with roots. If placed in a shady place and .syringed every morning and evening in dry weather, they will be ready for potting in a week. Six-inch pots are employed for all plants, good drainage being given, with a small handful of half- inch bones over the drainage. The soil consists of loam of a friable nature. To one barrow-load are added a fi-inch potful of soot, an 8-inch potful of fine bones and a sprinkling of wood a.shes. A few rough pieces of the potting compost are placed over the crocks, using the potting stick freely. When the plant is potted, the base of the crown is 1 inch below the top of the pot. It is well to be particular over the state of .soil as to its proper moisture and to keep the plants well up, the base of the crown showing clearly. It is very important to grow the plants fully exposed to all sun pos- sible and slielter from the strong winds, also to have a good depth of ashes or loose gravel to stand them on. Watering is well attended to, but judgment should be used at all times, as too much soon causes an unhealthy appearance. My plants are watered twice daily in fine weather. I commence feeding slightly when the pots are well filled with roots by giving soot water about twice a week. Two or three weeks after, they have liquid manure from the cow shed twice a week if fine weather, and occasionally a pinch of guano, which I find an excellent manure for Strawberries. Great at- tention is paid to all side buds that appear. When they become prominent enough they are rubbed out, which is generally about the latter end of August or beginning of September. This will lead to the development of the entire centre crown, and good strong flower-spikes will result when the plants are introduced into heat. About November I have all the plants plunged to the rims in ashes in some sheltered spot under a wall. I do not believe in winter- ing plants in cold frames or stacking them on their sides. Light is the most important of all things, especially when the days are short. I have no Strawberry house proper, but have shelves fixed in vineries and Peach houses, in three-quarter span-roofed houses, about 3 fi eb from the ridge. These houses give plenty of light. The plants grow sturdy and throw up .strong spikes of flower. Before bringing the plants into heat (first batch January 1) they are thoroughly over- hauled. The temperature of newly-started vineries is very suitable for starting the Straw- berries into growth — 40" to 45° at night and from 45° to 50° by day. This temperature is continued for about a fortnight, then gradually raised to 50° by night and 55° by day. Increase the heat after the fruit is set by 5°, after about a fort- night increase till you reach 65° by night and TO"' to 75° by day ; sun 85° to 90°. I find it very necessary, to finish the fruit, to have a drier and more airy house than it is beneficial to allow a vinery to become. As soon as the fruit is jiar- tially coloured the plants must be moved and given more air and a fairly dry warm atmo- sphere, say 60° by night and 70'' by day ; this adds very much to the flavour of the fruit. Strawberries, like many other kinds of fruit, require very careful ventilation, otherwise mildew is sure to appear. I allow a little air on all night, according to the weather. The syringe should be used cautiously, never syringing in dull weather. Twice a day is quite sufficient on bright days, early morning and closing time. Should the foliage be wet from the morning syringing, avoid wetting it again at closing time ; damping tlie floor will suttice. Discontinue when the plants are in flower (unless very sunny weather, when I believe in syringing occasion- ally at closing time) and when the fruit com- mences colouring. I do not believe in feeding too soon. I give weak soot- water once or twice a week only until they have set their fruit ; after, I feed more liberally by giving liquid manure twice a week with a pinch of guano once a week. I discontinue when I see signs of colour. I always allow on each plant fourteen or sixteen fruits, and plants well treated wiU swell this number off' to a good size. Green fly and mildew are the worst enemies. For green fly I fumigate. If troubled with mildew, dip all plants directly the fruits are set in a mixture of lime and flowers of sulphur — one pound of each boiled in 2 gallons of water and allowed to cool down. Use half a pint to 4 gallons of water. Gorddinog, N. Wnles. W. Coate.s. Melon Diamond Jubilee. — In appearance tliis Melon bears a striking resemblance to Countess, which is really one of its parents, the other being Best of All. Like the Countess it is a wonderfully free cropper, every lateral showing a fruit. It is an oblong-shaped sort, golden yel- low in colour, and although stated to be a netted variety, all the fruits produced here have been quite smooth. It has white flesh, which is of good average depth, is very tender, and the Havour is excellent. It also ripens quickly, a great desideratum in a private garden, while it is well adapted for growing in coidon form either for early or late work. — A. W. Strawberry Lady SuflSeld. — I am sending you a sample of my last new Strawberry, Lady Sutlield. I have also included Lord Sutfield for comparison. The new Strawberry was obtained from Empress and Lord Suiheld, combining, as I think, the high flavour of the Empress with the 74 THE GARDEN. [July 30, 1898. delicious sweetness of Lord Suftield. It ripens before Lord Sufiield by a week, thus taking after the Empress in earliness. It is a very firm fruit and a most profuse bearer. I think in Lady Suffield I have taken a decided step in combin- ing the high, fine flavour of Empress with the delicious sweetness of Lord Suffield. It i.s a most profuse bearer, fruit very firm, and travels well. — Wm. Allan, Gunton Park, Norwich. NOTES ON STRAWBERRIES. This has been far from a good Strawberry sea- son here, as many of the first blossoms went blind through want of sunlight and the miser- ably dull, wet, and cold weather which obtained most of the time while the plants were flower- ing, and also when the early fruits were ripen- ing. For a fortnight or so we hardly saw a glimpse of sunshine, consequently no bees or other fertilising insects were flying, and the pollen being almost continually wet and cold could not act. Out of the older varieties grown, only Auguste Boisselot, President, Vicomtesse H. de Thury, and Latest of All have been really good. The last mentioned, having benefited by the change for the better experienced in the weather, is now excellent, as, too, is Dr. Hogg. Royal Sovereign has dis- appointed me much, or rather it has confirmed the note of warning which I wrote last year as to extensive planting for outdoor work, for the fruits have rotted wholesale on the plants and the flavour has been poor, want of sun having intensified the natural acidity of the fruit and prevented the rich flavour from developing. I believe that Royal Sovereign is better for a very open situation than it is for a closed-in garden, the leafage made in the latter position being altogether too rank and overpowering, even on year-old plants, to allow of the proper ripening of the fruit in a dull and wet season. Probably the very best place for the variety in question is under glass, and for forcing it has been found first-rate. Some considerable space has been given to year-old plants of many varieties, and most of these were planted out on a wall border exposed to the south, the plants being well rooted and planted early in August, so that they had every chance of doing well. Well in front of all others has been Laxton's Leader, and to this I can give unqualified praise from all points of view. It bore a big crop of fine fruits, many of the latter running to 2 ozs. weight each, beautifully coloured and the flavour first-rate. I was not quite prepared to find it so good, as I had read of its being inferior as to flavour, but on this light soil nothing could be much better, and I place it on a level with President in this respect and well before it as to size and crop- ping, while the leafage is not nearly so ample, though the plant is hardy and robust enough. I am fully expecting that this will turn out a standard variety, good enough for anyone to eat at any time, and one that can be grown with a certainty of a good paying crop, which is more than can be said of many of the best flavoured varieties. Of Monarch, I can give no such good account. I found it very shy indeed, and many of the plants went blind ; the few fruits borne were of good shajie and colour, very glossy and firm, the flavour only moderate. It will be grown again as a two-year-old. Laxton's No. 1 was the earliest grown. The fruits were small and soft, of a Keens' Seedling flavour and shape, but far bshind those of that old variety in quality. It makes ample leafage that well protects the I blossoms, but in spite of its earliness it will not be grown again. Countess gave but a poor crop of rather small fruits ; these were well shaped, firm, and of good flavour, but not so good as some others, and it will have to make room for something else which will give a better return. Among those which gave a good crop was Cumberland Triomphe. This is a big round Strawberry of excellent flavour, rather early, but very soft and woolly in texture. Baron Brisse is very similar to the foregoing in general appearance, excellent in flavour, of fair texture, and rather late. It did not give a big crop, but will get another trial as a two-year- old, and until then I must reserve judgment on it. Frogmore Late Pine, an old favourite, is far from a good cropper at any time, but its excellent flavour keeps it a place ; as a one- year-old plant, however, it is found by me next to useless. J. C. Tallack. Peach rxquisite is, I think, not so generally known and cultivated as it deserves to be, as it is far superior in quality to many other late varieties, and in my opinion the best of all the yellow-fleshed Peaches. The tree possesses a good hardy constitution, is a vigorous grower, and a free setter. It is an excellent kind to grow, either in a mid-season or late house, coming into use, as it does, between Princess of Wales and Walburton Admirable. It is, however, of much richer flavour than the two kinds just alluded to, while it equals them in point of size, the fruits attaining very large dimensions. The skin of Exquisite is pale yellow, mottled with red next the sun. The flesh is also pale yellow, streaked with red, more particularly next the stone, and it is tender, juicy, and richly flavoured. —A. W. Strawberry Leader. — Those who force Straw berries should give Leader a trial, as it is a grand fruit and not lacking in quality. Its size cannot be complained of, as it may be termed large, and, what is so desirable in a forced Strawberry, it has firm flesh of a dark scarlet colour with good flavour. It forces well and sets very freely in a moist house ; indeed, it is not unlike Royal Sovereign as regards its growth. Growers may ask, Why grow Leader when Royal Sovereign is so good ? Leader is later than Sovereign, and being so distinct in flavour it is well worth room in all gardens. It is excellent for open-air culture, as it comes in just at a time the earlier ones are on the wane. As a mid season Strawberry it should find favour. This season I am much pleased with the good quality of its fruits. — G Wytiies. Strawberry Latest of All.— This produces enormous fruits of the richest and most exquisite flavour, but the name is misleading, as I gathered ripe fruits of it the first week in July this some- what late season. But, whenever they come, such splendid fruits are welcome and are bound to command admiration. Not being a particularly vigorous grower, Latest of All may be planted rather more closely than the majority of kinds, and as runners are not very freely produced until somewhat late in the season, the lines, if planted too far apart, have a rather bare appearance. But there is no question as to its value here on a heavy strong soil. The fruit is very firm and travels well. The points of the fruit are occasionally somewhat pale in colour and are all the better for a night in the fruit room before being eaten. Its pale green foliage is very distinct. — H. R. Strawberry Monarch. — Last season I wrote rather disparagingly of this variety : not that the fruits were not large enough, or that the plants had any fault of growth, but simply owing to lack of flavour. It is little short of remarkable that, in such a season as we had here, with drenching rains right up to the time the fruit was ripening, the flavour should have improved ; but it is none the less the fact, and in all probability Monarch will be best in wet seasons. Since the first fruits were gathered we have had more seafonable weather, and the fruit has been splendid, not only from young beds — though these were naturally the finest — but also from two-yearold plants. With good culture and plenty of room it is doubtless a very fine straw- berry, and, according to the present year's experience, of far better flavour than Royal Sovereign. — H. RASPBERRIES. While no fruit pays better for good culture than the Raspberry, the fair results produced by an amateur or beginner with a few old stools or rows at his command show that it is easily grown. The let-alone plan, in fact, is so satis- factory to a certain extent that no fruit is more likely to be neglected year after year, the gathering of the fruit and thinning out of the old canes being all the attention they get in many places. The soil in which they are grown has a lot to do with continued success, and a fairly heavy yet well-drained soil cannot easily be beaten. Even in gardens of some pretensions there is a disposition to fight shy of disturbing old Raspberry quarters and plant- ing new ones, yet if gone about in the proper way and at the correct season the work is as easy and the result as sure as making a new Strawberry bed. The suckers that spring up at some distance from the older stems are the most easily detached and best for planting, and the safest time for the work is early autumn while there is plenty of warmth in the soil and yet little fear of long - continued drought. For private gardens there are many suitable methods of training, but I question if any give less trouble than a wire at about 3 feet from the ground, the canes being planted a foot apart and tied to the wire. Where much exposed, two wires are best, one at 2 feet from the ground, the other at 4 feet, this steadying the canes, which may be allowed to run higher than the top wire if the lines are set at a good distance apart. The land of course will have been in order long enough to have got nicely settled, and planting must be followed by a mulch of short manure. The depth at which the roots are set depends a great deal on the nature of the soil, but shallow rather than deep planting ."hould be the rule. This because the Raspberry roots deeply with the lower tiers of roots, and seems by the nature of the upper, more fibrous, parts to delight in running just under the surface. The long thong-like roots steady the plants in posi- tion, while those nearer the surface collect food and moisture. For this reason they should be kept up, well spread out and as far as possible kept always moist. In early spring these plant- ing canes should be cut down to within a few inches of the surface, and as soon as strong sucker-like growths appear from the base the little lateral shoots may be rubbed quite out, even from the few joints left. The care of the grower will be by all reasonable means to ensur°e a strong, healthy, and clean growth, that in the succeeding season will carry a fair crop of fruit. The second season, if properly treated, a very heavy crop will be gathered, and after this the plants should go on improving for several years. Pruning consists, of course, in taking out the old wood after fruiting, and so thinning the number of young shoots an- nually that there is no crowding on the trellis. The old canes are best removed directly the fruit is taken, the additional room being useful, allowing sun and air to enter freely and thoroughly ripen the young canes. A heavier crop of fruit may in some instances be gathered by topping the young canes to difi'erent lengths July nn, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 75 in spring, not indiscriminately iis they come, but leaving the stronger canes a foot or even more longer than sliorter or imperfectly ripened ones. A more regular supply of fruit down tlie trellis and a heavier crop, owing to eacli separate cane being taken at the most suitable height, result. Perennial weeds are a great nuisance in Rasjiberry (juarters, as they run in and out auioiig the canes where they are ditticult to get at. It is wortli while on this account being at a little trouble in cleaning the land before plant- ing, and, by frequent stirring of the surface, keeping all such as wild Convolvulus. Twitch, and Thistles in check. As mentioned above, the Raspberry pays for good feeding, and a liberal dressing of the sur- face annually is well repjid by the improved yield of fruit. The mulch need not be all farmyard or stable manure. There are many things that are useful, such as potting-bench refuse ami the soil from the decaying of garden refuse and a little lime. melon The Czar.— A short time ago I had occasion to mention in these columns that I had three now varieties of Melons on trial, the above being one of the trio. Since then the fruits have matured, and when tested proved to be all that one could desire. The plant is a strong grower, but not perhaps quite so prolific as some other sorts I am acquainted with. The fruits are, how- ever, of fine proportions, round in shape, and averaging about '< lbs. in weight, while the skin is pale yellow and slightly netted. The flesh is white, of great depth, edible quite up to the rind, and very rich and deliciously flavoured. I do not know its parentage, but it certainly is a first-rate sort and one worthy of cultivation. Having to meet a large demand for Melons, I always give new introductions a trial as they are sent out, some of which prove satisfactory and others (piite the reverse. The above, how- ever, possesses all the good qualities claimed for it by the vendors, and will therefore be grown again and in quantity. — A. W. Peach Salway. — I am glad to see that Mr. Iggulden, in his note on " Peaches and Nectarines for Market," has a good word to say in favour of this much maligned Peach. Owing perhaps to the situation here being a good one for outdoor Peaches, Salway generally does well on a south wall. By this I do not wish to infer that the flavour is first-rate, because it is not ; but the fruits grow to a large size, they are very hand- some, and it certainly is a valuable Peach for late work. It ripens with me outdoors about the middle or third week in October, and, as Mr. Iggulden justly remarks, it keeps well, and at that season of the year is invaluable for dessert. For some reason my tree has missed bearing this season, although it blossomed well and had appa- rently set a good crop. The blooms, however, dropped in a wholesale manner, a thing I have never known to happen before. What makes it more remarkable is the fact that other trees near by on the same wall and grown under precisely the same conditions are carrying eood crops of fruit. -S. E. P. ^ ^ ^ ^ Apple Cox's Pomona.— This richly coloured and handsome Apple may justly be termed as "accommodating,'' so well does it submit to being cultivated in any form of tree, while it is also exceedingly probtic. Another point to be ad- vanced in its favour is the fact of its being a very consistent bearer, as it but seldom misses fruiting. The fruits are of medium size, but most abundantly produced. It is a very profit- able sort, and one on which dependence can be placed for market work, the rich, highly coloured fruit always meeting with a ready sale either privately or otherwise. \Vhen grown for private use it is equally good either for the table or cook- ing. The smallest and most richly coloured fruits should be reserved for table use. They form a handsome dish, and are much admired for their beauty. The flavour is also rich, and the soft llesh is much appreciated by many [leoplc, or by those who are unable to partake of firm, crisp eating Apples. When grown entirely for private consumption the fruits should not be gathered until they part readily from the tree, otherwise they will lack flavour and be dry-eating. For marketing it is necessary to gather the fruits Ijcfore they become tender for reasons which are only too obvious. — A. W. Cherry Elton. — This Cherry succeeds remark- ably well as a standard, as it seldom fails to pro- duce a full crop of its large luscious fruits. In an orchard the fruit comes into use abovit mid- July, but when grown on an east wall it is quite a fortniglit earlier. It hangs well, so that if not required at the time it ripens, wall trees can be netted over to secure the fruit from bird attacks. If allowed to hang until they are on the point of shrivelling the fruits are delicious. It is a vigorous and hardy grower, and standards soon form good spreading heads. Intending planters should make a cote of this, as it is a sort which can be planted with confidence. A few days ago I had occasion to pass through a Cherry orchard in which several trees of this variety were carrying good crops of fruit. This orchard occupies a high and dry situation, it having been formed on the side of a hill, and is so well elevated above the sur- rounding country that it is free from fog and almost wholly so from frost etfects. The upper portion of the hill forms a fine protection to the orchard, and eftectually shields it from the north and east, while the land slopes rather abruptly towards the south-west. The soil is a shallow loam, overlj'ing limestone, and with it small par- ticles of the decayed rock are freely commingled. In spite of the situation and the weather being hot and dry, the fruit borne by the trees was first-rate in every respect and not at all dry eating, as I quite expected to find. This shows that Cherries do not need the same amount of moisture as many of our other hardy fruits, as rain drains away quickly in such a position as that occupied by the orchard described. My chief object in mentioning the matter, however, was to draw attention to the fact of Cherries suc- ceeding so well in such a position, and there are, doubtless, many more such positions, not only in this county, but in others suited to hardy fruit culture, which might be profitably utilised. — A. W., ffere/nrd. NOTES AND QUESTIONS.— FRUIT. Helen Countess of Derby. — This Melon was, I believe, the result of a cross between William Tillery and Knowsley Favourite. The progeny has green flesh and is richly flavoured. The fruits are not unlike those of Diamond Jubilee in shape, but the colour is paler and the skin is also netted. It is a vigorous grower, a good cropper, and the fruit matures in from fourteen to sixteen weeks from the time of sowing, a fact which should be noted by all who have to pro- duce early Melons. — A. W. An ealy Strawberry. — My earliest Straw- berry this year was Early Laxton, and though the fruits are small they are of excellent flavour. A few persons object to large fruits, and these may with advantage grow the above variety, as it produces a great quantity of fruit, but none large ; indeed, the later gatherings are small and just the size for preserving. The fruits are of a rich crimson colour, and being firm travel well. This variety was ripe ten days earlier than any other kind. Early Laxton was gathered in the middle of .June, and in quantity the third week, when other early kinds were only just turning. For market I do not advise its culture, as its size would be against it. On the other hand, it forces well, doing grandly in a cold frame. Of late we have paid a good deal of attention to mere size ; here is a break in the right direction, and in Early Laxton will be found good quality and earliness. — (J. W. S. Strawberry Louis Gauthier. — This is doing grandly this year in anything but a good Straw- berry soil, and being a late cropper will prove of great value in gardens where these fruits are needed for a long period. Some growers may object to the colour of the fruits when ripe, this being of a peculiar blush shade or a very pale pink ; indeed the nearest approach in colour is the White Knight, but superior to that variety. Louis (Jauthier is a good cropper, a strong grower, and as it produces an early crop at the end of June or early in July and another in two months' time, it will be a distinct gain in gardens of limited si/.o where many varieties cannot be grown. The second crop is borne on the now growths made now. It is not advisable to cut away runner growths; they may be thinned, and will bear fruit freely in the autumn. Mr. Hudson, (iunnersbiiry House, grows this variety and speaks highly of its qualities. It is of continental origin and does well in light soils.— G. Wytues. Apple Crimson ftueening.— I can never understand why this Apple is not among the best known varieties, but one rarely sees a note on it. It is excellent for cooking at any time while in season, and selected fruits are first rate for dessert, handsome in colour, crisp, juicy, re- freshing, and highly flavoured. The tree is a very healthy, spreading and robust grower and a sure cropper. The fruits are medium to large sized, conical, with high crown and well-defined ribs, crimson striped on a bright yellow ground when ripe. It is unfortunate it comes into use with the bulk of early Apples and not early enough to give it an especial value on that score, but it remains in season for at least three months, and I use it largely for dessert during the latter half of September and in October before com- mencing on the Ribston Pippin. If confined to a small orchard and a very limited number of varieties, I should certainly give this a place, with the assurance of having a free-bearing and healthy-growing tree. — J. C. T. The Market Garden. PEACHES AND NECTARINES FOR MARKET. PL.iNTING THE TrEES. Traixeii trees or these that have been {iruned about three times and duly trained are too often preferred under the impression that they are the cheapest in the end, owing to their attain- ing to a productive state the most quickly. No greater mistake in connection with Peach and Nectarine culture can well be made. Trained trees rarely, if ever, produce fruit during the season following planting. They might do so if previously growing against .sunny walls and extra pains were taken in transplanting before all the leaves had fallen. As it happens, the trees are principally raised in the open ground and the wood is not of a fruitful description. According to my experience, trained trees are apt to be slow in attaining to a productive state, and are most liable to lose their branches prematurely and piecemeal owing to their gumming badly where so much severe pruning of rank, innnature wood took place. Jlaidens, or trees that have made one season's growth from the bud and not been pruned in any way, are much the cheapest and by far the best to plant. These may be planted during winter or early in the spring and fruited the second sum- mer after. 'To be plain, if I planted maidens in February or March next— and that I hold to be a good tinie to do this work — I should expec 76 THE GARDEN. [July 30, 1898. them to form fairly large heads during the following summer capable, say, of producing a dozen fruits in 1900, the trees benefiting rather than suffering injury from the early cropping, as it prevents grossness. Strong, well-ripened maiden trees should be bought always from a reliable source, paying the best (trade) price for them. If received in the autumn they may be planted then, or they can be laid in by their heels, taking care to well cover the roots with fine soil and to mat over the tops whenever a severe frost is anticipated. Just when top growth commences is about the best time to plant, and this delay admits of the house or houses being utilised to their fuU extent for Chrysanthemums and the preparation if need be of many tliousand Tomato plants. I ought, perhaps, to have pointed out that expensive curvilinear wire trellises are what answer well in private gardens. Wires strained through eyes screwed into the sash-bars lengthways of the house 9 inches apart and 9 inches or rather less from the glass is, however, the cheapest, simplest, and best arrangement. My trees are about 1.'5 feet apart, but a portion would soon occupy double their allotted space if I could make up my mind to sacrifice the other half of them. For quick returns, plant nearly or quite as thickly as I have done. They can be kept within bounds by judicious stopping and fore- shortening. If large trees are desired, either allow more room in the first instance, or else plant more thickly and transplant some of them to another house when they are nearing each other. There is yet another alternative. Cor- dons may be grown between fan-shaped trees, and these gradually cleared out as more space is required. I have been advised by an expert that cordon Peach and Nectarine trees planted 2 feet or so apart are very profitable. I hojje to be able to say more about that some other time, as my three dozen cordons are only just beginning to bear fruit. Trees "worked " high or with a clear stem are expensive, and, to tell the truth, the shorter the Plum stock the better pleased I am. The best stems are formed by the scions, and if Peaches and Nectarines were all either on their own roots or budded on seedling Peaches there would be fewer failures owing to the stock not swelling properly. We want free, not dwarfing stocks. Stems reaching to the lower wire or from 2 feet to 'A feet high can be had by planting strong dwarf maidens. Top these to the desired height and trim oft" all lateral growth, leaving nothing but so many " sticks," as a gardening friend once termed my newly-pruned maidens. If the trees are properly planted, taking care notto bury thecollarsdeeply, are kept uniformly moist at the roots and not sub- mitted to hard forcing at first they will break strongly, and what the grower then has to do is to remove the worst placed of the shoots, re- serving four or six for laying the foundation of the tree. If these shoots grow strongly, as they usually do, top them when about 18 inches long, thin out resulting shoots and lay in those best situated for the purpose . In this way a fair sized head is formed during the first season, and the wood not being too gross will flower freely the following spring. Gentle heat, with a daily syringing to keep down red spider, is all that is necessary for these young trees. If Tomatoes are grown with them — and no market grower could well resist the temptation to thus turn the space to a good account for at least two seasons — the syringing should be done in the morning after a little air has been given, and there must be no early closing to box up sun- heat, as this means a sudden bad attack of Cladisporium and a light crop of Tomatoes. The Tomatoes ought also to be studied during the second season, the Peach and Nectarine trees making good progress unless neglected, also fruiting well in the hot and comparatively dry atmosphere that suits the Tomato plant. Treatment of Older Trees. I believe in ihinning out crowded shoots, pruning or shortening those reserved requiring strengthening, and those already tending to grossness lightly. Older trees should be fore- shortened freely to keep them within bounds and to strengthen the centres, as these ought to be as well furnished with bearing wood as the rest of the trees. A close look-out should be kept for fastenings becoming too tight, as I have seen much harm result from a neglect of this precaution. There ought to be no necessity for winter dressings witli insecticides. Apply- ing these occupies too much time, and besides the only insect pest that, as a rule, proves trouble- some in the case of market growers' trees is red spider. If these have been in the ascendant during the summer previous, thoroughly wet every part of the dormant tree with water to every gallon of which a good-sized handful of sulphur has been added. If the trees are kept properly syringed and the borders constantly moist, red spider will make but little headway, and after the crops are gathered, syringing with sulphur and water, wetting as much of the under side of the foliage as possible and discon- tinuing the daily syringing, with clear water, efl'ectually checks red spider. Flowers of sul- phur mix readily with water if squeezed through a muslin bag. Large trees bearing heavy crops of fruit should be assisted by frequent appli- cations of liquid manure to the roots, and in no case ought the borders to become dry either during the growing or resting periods. Neglect- ing the borders after the trees have matured their crops is anything but sensible. It is dur- ing the next few months that they recoup their strength and the foundation for another crop is laid. Marketing the Fruit. If any of my readers have left such numbers of fruit on the trees that many of them refuse to swell and ripen properly, dropping pre- maturely, the chances are the remainder will not realise Iiigh prices, and the trees will have been much crippled into tlie bargain. Leaving large numbers of fruit at thinning-time with the idea that some will always drojj prematurely is the surest way of bringing about this misfor- tune. Do all the thinning necessary before the stoning period, and if the trees are in good health there will be no premature dropping to complain of. What constitutes a good crop is somewhat difticult to define, but if the fruits are left 9 inches apart each way all over the trees there will not be much wrong either way. If left much closer together there will be many more " seconds " than " firsts." If Nectarines are smaller than Peaches, it does not follow that the fruits may be left any closer together on the trees. It is my belief each Nectarine takes as much out of a tree as a Peach, and if this view were generally acted upon, very many more fuUy developed Nectarines would be met with in both market and private gardens. I believe half the Nectarines grown in this country are uneatable, owing to the trees producing them being over - cropped. When thinning Peaches or Nectarines, as many as possible should be left on the upper surface of the trees, and all ought to be well exposed to light, air and sun to colour them — pale fruit not pleasing buyers. Some there are who grow good fruit only to spoil it in packing. It should be borne in mind that Peaches and Nectarines ready for the dining table when packed would be com- paratively worthless by the time fruiterers get them, and that however well they may be packed. The time-honoured, but in all instances foolish, plan of suspending fish-nets under the trees to catch falling fruit should never be adopted by market growers. No fruit ought to be left on the trees till ready to drop, as this militates against the quality as well as travelling. Once or twice every day the trees should be gone over, and every fruit just com- mencing to soften at the base (they must not be pressed anywhere else) ought to be at once carefully, yet forcibly, removed. They may be packed at once or kept resting on a bed of paper and wood wool till they can be packed. If quite firm when started, they will soften somewhat during the journey, and a few hours in a shop window will do the rest. The sender will also do well to grade all his fruit. Never spoil a good gathering by including a few second or undersized fruit with the prime, as this may end in a low price being allowed for all sent. Faulty grading and packing tell their own tale to the oommission agent, and advantage may be taken of the inexperienced sender as a conse- quence. On one occasion this season I had occasion to make three grades, and the returns were respectively 18s., 12s., and 6s. per dozen, or the respectable average of 12s. per dozen. If all had been sent without grading, 9s. would have been the most per dozen returned. Cheap, fragile, or makeshift boxes ought never to be used. Those who send to salesmen should apply for their boxes and pack in these. Home-made boxes ought to be equally as deep and strong, fruit frequently coming to grief in shallow boxes particularly. Nothing hard should press against the points of Peaches and Nectarines, and they ought to rest on a soft, springy base. A box 19 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 4i inches deep, outside measurement, answers well for two dozen large Peaches, and will hold half a dozen more smaller-sized fruit or Nectarines. Wood-wool has largely superseded cotton-wool for packing, but I do not pack wholly in this, for the simple reason that Peaches and Nectarines are apt to shift in this material, sometimes arriving at their destination resting on their points instead of their base, where, if slightly bruised, it does not greatly detract from the value of the fruit. A layer of cotton-wool may well be placed in the bottom of the box as a foundation only. Each fruit should be placed in the centre of a square of tissue paper, bringing the ends up to a point on the top. Cotton- wool, unbleached, but of fairly good quality, pulled or cut into lengths of about 12 inches, and each width divided into three strips, folded so as to have the skin side outwards, should then be wound round each fruit, and, the cotton-wool being deeper than the Peaches or Nectarines, serves as a rest for the base and a protection for the point. The fruit ought to be packed closely and tightly together, and may, further, have a thin or thick layer of cotton-wool, as the case may be, over the top, the lid shutting down tightly on this. Thus packed not much harm should result, even if a railway porter did drop the box in handling. There ought to be no nailing down of the lids, as it is uncalled for. The fruit may, and very frequently is, damaged in trying to force open nailed-down lids, and packers are far too fond of driving in those wire nails. It is well to paste printed labels on the boxes, showing what the contents are, or inti- mating that the fruit is soft, and the number and quality of the fruit should also be stated openly for the benefit of salesmen. W. Ic.GULDEN. July 30, 1898.] THE GARDEN. Trees and Shrubs. PIERIS FORMOSA. The genus Pieris is represented in gardens by some hidf-!i-(lo/,en species, the best known of whicli are 1'. tli>i-ibunda fmin the Smith United States and P. japonioa from Japan. Both these ■are well-knuwn evergreen .shrubs, but are generally called Andromedas. The genus also contains two or three deciduous species. P. for- niosa, the species now figured, is one of the rarest : it is evergreen, and conies from the mountains of Northern India, where it is found at altitudes of 7000 feet to 10,000 feet, and from China. There it grows some VZ feet high, and is a wide-spreading bush or even a small tree. In England, unfortunately, it is not really hardy except in the south-west, or in localities with a similar climate. It has been grown out- side at Kew for many years, but now it is only diameter ; they are nodding, a <|uarter of an inch wide at the base, tapering towards the narrow mouth, whei'e are five small reHe.xed lobes. The colour is a porcelain-white. For gardens ordinarily situated near London and further north this plant is of no value as a hardy shrub; it requires the protection of a cool greenhouse ; but wherever llhododendrons of the stamp of Falconeri, grande, itc, will thrive outside, it ought always to be planted. Its general character as well as its great beauty when in bloom are admirably shown in the accompany- ing engraving. — W. J. B. Mr. John D. Nauscawen, Whiteway, Chud- leigh, Devon, who sent us the photo from which the illustration was prepared, sends us the following notes on the plant ; — I enclose a photo of Andromeda (Pieris) formosa. It is 17 feet high and 28 feet through. As you see, it is one mass of bloom, and certainly one of the loveliest plants for the shrubbery that ever Pieris formosa at Pentillie Castle, Cornwall. From a photograph sent hy Mr. John D. Nauscawen, Whiteway, Chudleigh, Devon. •3 feet high, and this growth has for the most part been made during the last two years, the winters having been mild enough to allow the shoots to survive. The winter of 1894-.5 had completely cut it back to the ground. In a word, Pieris formosa stands on the same footing as regards hardiness as the tenderer species of Himalayan Rhododendrons, except that it has the faculty of sending up growths wlien killed down to the ground. In Cornwall a few years ago I saw tine specimens of this evergreen, and it is in some such locality, no doubt, that the magnificent specimen shown in the illustration has grown. The leaves are somewhat like those of the Portugal Laurel, although slightly firmer ; they are each 3 inches to 5 inches long, from 1 inch to IJ inches wide, tapering towards both ends, of a dark lustrous green, perfectly smooth, and have the margins very minutely toothed. It blossoms during April and May, the flowers appearing in great numbers on a compound panicle 6 inches or more in length and in was introduced. The plant is growing in the grounds of Mr. W. Coryton, Pentillie Castle, Cornwall, where there is a grand collection of Indian Rhododendrons. Crinodendron Hookeri.— There have of late been several references to the above Chilian shrub as an open-air subject in Great Britain. It is generally looked upon as too tender for outdoor culture in this country, and is in consequence most often seen as a denizen of the greenhouse, though in the southern counties there are instances of its doing well in sheltered positions in the open, I myself having seen a healthy jilant in blossom during the past month in a well- known garden in Dorsetshire. That it should flourish without protection in a garden as far north as Ross-shire is, however, certainly sur- prising. In all probability the site that it occupies is naturally protected from cold winds by rocks or evergreens or it could hardly be expected to endure Scottish winters with im- punity. Another Chilian shrub that I noticed in bloom in the garden I have already referred to was I'hilesia huxifolia, which was bearing a <|uantitv of its red Lapigeria-like blossoms. — S. W. F. Tree Elaeagnuses.— (ienerally speaking, the different kinds of El:i^agnu3 that are hardy in this country can bo divided into two groups, by far the better known being the shrubljy forms of an evergreen or sub-evergreen character, which are natives principally of .Japan. Besides these there are others which attain quite treelike dimen- sions. They are all natives of Southeastern Europe and Asia Minor and are deciduous. The principal species, E. Hortensia, though very un- common, was introduced into this country over two centuries .ago. The variety angustifolia, which is one of the very best, has the leaves par- ticularly long and Willow-like ; indeed, all of them bear a certain amount of general resem- blance to a Willow. The one prominent feature of these Tree Ela-agnuses, or Tree Olives, as they are also called, is the beautiful silvery character of their foliage, and on this account they stand out conspicuously from other trees, more espe- cially when the slender branches are stirred by the wind, as then the intense silvery under sides of the leaves are brought into view These Ehfagnuses are well suited for dry, sandy soils, for not only do they resist droughc well, but the silvery character of the foliage is more pronounced than where the soil is moister and of better quality. — T. Robinia hispida. — We have in our gardens a great wealth of spring-flowering trees and shrubs, but after they are past the number of subjects in bloom is far more limited, and con- sequently any that flower then are additionally valuable. Such an one is the Rose Acacia (Robinia hispida), which, although far less in stature than the other cultivated species of the genus, occupies the first place if regarded from a flowering point of view. It is of a loose, shrubby style of growth. The rich rosy purple pea-shaped blossoms are borne in considerable numbers, and being so distinct in colour from those of any of their associates they are particu- larly valuable. This Acacia is nearly always met with grafted on to the common False Acacia, hence it is very rarel}' seen in its natural bushy shape. If so grown, rough winds would have less effect upon it than when grafted on to a clear stem, as is usually done. Under these latter conditions it must be planted in a fairly sheltered position, as the branches being brittle they are easily broken by rough winds. The specific name of hispida is de- rived from the stiff hairs with which the young branches and flower-stalks are thickly clothed, but all the individuals do not possess this character to the same degree — indeed, there is a form — inermis — in which it is altogethei wanting. A group consisting of a few plants of this Acacia on its own roots and thus show- ing its natural haliit, should form a most attractive feature in a garden, but it is doubtful if such plants can be obtained. — T. NOTES & QUESTIONS.— TREES & SHRUBS. Bibes speciosum. — A note on the Fuchsia Cur- rant growiog in bush form appeared some few weeks ago. Naturalised oa the grass in a fairly open but sheltered position, its arching shoots thickly set with pendent blossoms of glowing crimson, it was a beauti- ful sight during the past spring iu South Devon and remained in bloom for many weeks. — S. W. F. Ozothamnus rosmarinifolius.— On July .5 a pretty branch of this valuable plant was shown at the monthly meeting of the Scottish Horti- cultural Association. The spray was grown and bloomed near Edinburgh with such plants as Buddleia globosa, which flowers freely in the dis- trict. The spray shown was a foot long and 4 inches across at the base, tapering into a beauti- fully moulded pyramid of tiny Daisy-like flowers an inch across at the top. It is described by Nicholson as hardy in the south of England, but until the meeting I was not aware it would thrive in the open air so far north as Edinburgh. This 78 THE GAEDEN. [Jdly 30, 189S. species is said to thrive in almost any soil, and to be readily propagated in summer by means of cuttings made of the half-ripened young wood. — D. T. F. Abutilon vitifolium. — Mr. S. Arnott's note on the decorative value of large specimens of this Abutilon when grown in the form of tall bushes in sheltered situations should lead those who possess warm gardens in the south-west of England and in Ireland to plant this beautiful subject more freely. As he says, description fails to give an adequate idea of the charming picture presented by such plants when in the zenith of their beauty. There are, I am glad to say, not a few gardens in South Devon where they are thus grown, both the porcelain blue and the white varieties being represented. — S. W. F. Escallonia langleyensis. — This is a deci- dedly pretty addition to hybrid shrubs, among which the genua Escallonia has not, as far as I am aware, previously figured. It was raised by Messrs. Veitch at their Langley nursery, and obtained from E. Philippiana crossed with the pollen of E. macrantha sanguinea. The little open bell-shaped flowers are borne in as great profusion and much after the same manner as those of E. Philippiana, but instead of being white, as in that kind, they are of a pleasing shade of pink. It received an award of merit last year on June 15, and was recently exhibited in good condition at the Drill Hall.— T. Philadelphus Lemoinei.— I was certainly surprised that this charming little shrub had not up to the Royal Horticultural Society's meeting on June 28 received any recognition from the floral committee, but on referring to the published lists such proved to be the case. An award of merit was bestowed upon it on that occasion, and but for the fact that it is now well known and generally distributed, it would, I venture to think, have received a first-class certificate. These difl'erent hybrid forms of Philadelphus obtained by the intercrossing of the little new Mexican P. microphyllus with the European Mock Orange (P. coronarius) are really charming shrubs, remarkable not only from their profusion of bloom, but also for the grace and elegance of a well-developed specimen. One particularly desir- able feature possessed by P. Lemoinei is that the blossoms have for the most part the agreeable fragrance of P. microphyllus rather than the heavy, unpleasant smell of its other parent. There are now several varieties belonging to the Lemoinei group, one at least of which (Boule d'Argent) has double blossoms. — H. P. Magnolia pumila. — This species of Magnolia is but seldom met with, and certainly, as far as the ornamental qualities of its blossoms are con- cerned, it has no very strong claims to extended cultivation, but the flowers are so fragrant as to at once attract attention. It is, as sug- gested by the specific name, quite a small-grow- ing plant — at least for a Magnolia — and will flower freely when not more than 18 inches high. The ovate leaves, which are each about 6 inches long, are of a dark glossy green on the upper surface and slightly glaucous beneath. The flowers, which do not expand widely, are about the size of a pigeon's egg and of an ivory-white, tinged with green. The fragrance of this species is even more pronounced during the evening than it is in the daytime. It is a native of Ja\'a and was in- troduced towards the latter part of the last cen- tury. It succeeds perfectly in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand in a warm greenhouse or inter- mediate temperature. [This species will strike readily from cuttings of the half-ripened shoots put into sandy soil and kept close till rooted. Plants so obtained flower when quite small, and I have had them when but a few inches high, and in 2J-inch pots each bear a comparatively large globular bloom. — T. Magnolia Watsoni. — This must certainly be assigned a place among the most desirable shrubs that have been introduced within the last ten years. The flowers, which are freely borne, are nearly 6 inches in diameter, and ivory-white in colour. A very conspicuous feature of the flower is a broad ring of crimson filaments that sur- rounds the pistil. When first expanded the flowers are very agreeably scented. This Mag- nolia, though it is as yet but little planted, has proved hardy in this country, at all events in fairly sheltered positions. Magnolias, as a rule, do not readily establish themselves, particularly if they are planted in a bleak or exposed spot. All of them succeed best if sheltered from the wind, and a good plan is to plant them when small in a clearing where there is a shelter belt of trees and shrubs sufficient to break the force of the wind, but not near enough to rob the soil or to shade the Magnolias to any great extent. A soil that is not too much much parched up at any time is also necessary to their well-doing. Another species nearly related to M. Watsoni is M. parviflora, but the former is the better of the two. There are now so many Magnolias that differ widely from each other in stature, flowers, season of blooming, and other particulars, that a most interesting garden feature might be formed of Magnolias alone. — H. P. Flower Garden. EXHIBITING TUFTED PANSIES. There is a danger of missing the mark alto- gether by the encouragement given to the pro- duction of florists' flowers such as are met with at exhibitions of the Tufted Pansy, especially where these beautiful hardy flowers are set up in sprays. The exhibitor stages blossoms par- taking of all the points of a florist's flower regardless altogether of the plant's habit of growth. It is a fact that many of the finest varieties met with at shows, both in competi- tion and in the exhibits of tlie trade specialists, are quite unsuited for the flower garden. The question therefore arises, What useful purpose does the present method of exhibiting these flowers serve '. In the first place it must be admitted that a number of sprays, neatly arranged with their own foliage, more especially if a wise selection of varieties be made, is efl'ective, and there is little doubt that many visitors to the shows are captivated by what they see there. This result, most people will readily admit, is satisfactory so far, but the great mistake is made in ordering plants of the handsome kinds exhibited, and which in the succeeding season rarely give the results anticipated. A large number of the sorts, instead of being beautifully tufted and compact in their habit of growth, are coarse, and instead of flowering freely and continu- ously, are only to be seen in good form during a somewhat limited period, after which the flowers are i)uny and unsatisfactory. To this rule, however, there are several exceptions, the blossoms being equally valuable for exhibiting as well as for garden decoration, and it is to the raising of such sorts that the enthusiast might well devote more attention. Beautiful though the last - mentioned class of flowers may be, and greatly admired by the public when arranged in sprays, their excellent qualities for the flower garden can never be properly appreciated until growing jjlants can be exhibited, showing at once their free-flowering properties and their habit of growth. The type of plant alluded to here is well represented by Florizel, a lovely blush- lilac, wonderfully free flowering on somewhat short, stout footstalks, and of a splendid tufted growth. If the public could only see plants such as this staged growing in pans, baskets, or any suitable receptacle, they would at once be convinced of their great value. There would be no deception if this rule of exhibiting were caiTied out, as visitors could see for themselves the class of plant they were ordering, and quickly appreciate their value for certain forms of garden decoration. The craving by exhibitors after the formal flowers of the florist checks all progress, and the sooner less regard is paid to this and more attention given to the raising of pretty free-flowering varieties, combined with the essential of a good habit, the better it will be. At the present time, as with other flowers, owing to the orthodox system of exhibiting the Tufted Pansies, there are many very beautiful medium-sized flowers which are rarely, if ever, seen, and among these are some of the most valuable of our garden plants. Then, too, the rayless miniature sorts, the progeny of the sweet-scented Violetta, could nut very well fail to interest many gardeners, and a few two-year- old clumps of such sorts in full flower are among the prettiest and daintiest things imagin- able. If some of our specialists would only lead the way in this direction, there is good reason for believing that an impetus would be given to the cultivation of the best sorts, and many flower gardens be considerably benefited. Raisers of these flowers, too, would feel there was some scope for their efforts, and would be stimulated in their endeavour to introduce novelties of the best, as for some time past, plants of the loveliest description, but develop- ing blossoms somewhat under the recognised standard of size for arranging in sprays have been discarded, or else retained solely in the raisers' own gardens. D. B. Ceane. Campanula celtidifolia, which I received a few years affo from Mr. Carrington Ley, is conspicuous ill the border with its large clusters of bright blue flowers. It is perfectly hurdy aud easily propagateil by division. This genus is so very extensive that it is a boon sometimes to have one of special merit brought under one's notice. — D. Lllium Lowfi. — I have just flowered a bulb of this beautiful and very variable species. It is a native of Upper Burraah and is said to bft perfectly hardy ; tlie colour is white, spotted with violet in the inside of the bell-shaped tube. Some of the plants have pendent and others erect flowers. Mine are pendent, and so much so that one has to lift the bloom to see the interior. It is too scarce as yet to trust it in the open ground, and mine has, therefore, flowered in a pot.— D. Liiium Henryi. — Certainly for vigour of con- stitution there is no Lily that can compare with thi^. My bulb of it now bears a flowering stem upwards of 0 feet high, and I hope by-aud-by will be a grand sight. It lias been truly described as an orange- yellow speciosum, and it does not seem to care whether the season is dry or wet, cold or mild. In a few years it will doubtless be more plentiful, aud will occupy a conspicuous place in all Lily borders. — Delta. Eryngium Oliverianum. — This is one of the prettiest Sea Hollies I have seen, and is in good condition on the herbaceous border at Livermere Park, where the Ught sandy soil apparently suits it well. Here on a much heavier soil the Eryn- giums are only a partial success, E. amethysti- num being the best grower. The plant above named has the segments of the flower very beauti- fuU}' cut and fimbriated ; it opens a very pale greyish-blue, but when fully developed is of a lovely tint. It makes a fine show and should be- come very popular. — D. Hardy plants. — This has been a very trying season for gardening generally, and herbaceous borders have amongst other things sutt'ered from the long spell of dry weather. Some gardens are abundantly supplied with water, while in many districts it is a luxury. The effect has been seen in the disappearance of some plants and in the dwarf character of others, while some seem to have done especially well. I have never, for instance, had Liiium testaceum so tall and full of flower, but I see a manifest deterioration in some of the clumps of the speciosum varieties. The July 30, 1898.] THE GARDEN. 79 plants in tho rock garden have on the wholo done well, and oven now there is a considerable amount of bloom. — D. CROCUS IMPK.RATI AND CROCUS VEKNUS. Ix gardening books the Crocus used to be calloil " tho harl)inger of -spring," but tho many kinds of Crocus now in cultivation have variou.s seasons of flowering, so that they may be said to last for eight months in the year ; in fact, in Edge Garden Crocus vallicola, the earliest of the autumn kinds, comes out in Augu.st, and Crocus vermis leticorrhynchus. Engraved for The Gabden from a photograph sent by Miss C. WoUey-Dod. spring Crocuses last into March. C. Imperati, which is here figured, may be called a link between autumn and spring kinds, flowering generally in midwinter. After a wet and warm autumn, such as the autumn of 18!)7, several were out before Christmas, and they arrived at their best before the end of January, which was unusually dry and fine. February, how- ever, is generally their best month, and, of course, in a climate like that of the midland counties of England winter flowers must take their chance, and take advantage of any line interval frost and storms afford them. C. Im- perati is named after a naturalist of Naples, Imperato, who lived in the seventeenth cen- tury. The species is local, being found only in those parts of Ibily which are within about ICH!) miles of Naples, north and south. It is a very beautiful species, the outside of the flower being pale fawn colour, striped with brown, and the inside rich purple. When the sun is bright the flowers open very widely, as represented in this engraving. The shades of colour vary much. Maw, in liis monograph of the genus Crocus, gives a coloured portrait of several varieties. The most distinct varieties which I have come into bloom later than the ordinary type, having the outside of the flower without stripes, and the inside very deep rich purple. It also has the tube much shorter, the expanded flower lying nearly flat upon the ground. There is an albino variety, but the flowers are not very pure white and it is somewhat more delicate than the type, the bulbs often dying when they ought to be renewing themselves. This variety comes tolerably true from seed, but as it is rather late flowering, it is not of more value, except as a rarity, than some of the pure white forms of Crocus vernus. A fine mass of C. Imperati in February is a sight to encourage, and it is worth while using bell- glasses to protect the flowers from snow and bad weather. Crocus vernus has a wide native range in the south of Europe, extending from tho Pyrenees to the Carpathian Mountains and nearly through Italy to tho south. It is included in tho Mora of the British Islands, but only as a naturalised foreigner. In my boyhood I lived near Not- tingham, and I recollect nearly seventy years ago what a sight the purple Crocus used U> be there in early spring. Driving into Notting- ham by the Derby road on a clear day in March, and looking down across what was then open park attached to the castle, the meadows below seemed to me to be covered by sheets of water reflecting the blue sky, such was the abundance of purple Crocus vernus extending over many acres ; but the Midland railway station and sidings, as well as new streets, now cover what was then a clear area for flowers. Later in the year an autumn Crocus, C. nudiflorus, was nearly as plentiful in dirt'erent parts of the same meadows, reaching to the Trent side where Wilford Ferry then was. The variety of Crocus vernus in the accompanying engraving is one figured in Mr. Maw's monograph (plate 2<;) under the name of leucorrhynchus, called also Pheasant's Feather. It is purplish white, feathered near the tip with bright purple, but, as the name implies, having the extreme top of the petals pure white. I have cultivated this Crocus Imperati at Edge Sail. From a photograph sent by Miss C. Wolley-Dod. variety for many years, and find that these very marked characters are reproduced in the seed- lings. It is one of the earliest of the varieties of C. vernus. C. Wollby-Dod. F:d