DnnnDnnnnnannDDnnDDDnnnnnnDnnnnD D 3 D ■ i .<^!:^% ^ ^ * dl^ h\ D D 3 > WL nv j|§[ n Q 3 •z. ^^\u& A^ "* Q □ •? ^Sk^^^ff "> Q □ ^'^^^^*''' Q D D []^ ^ D ° UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS g g LIBRARY D D D D D 3 D D D □ D Q □ 3 □ 3 1 D D ° : □ □ □ 3 D D D ] ] 3 3 ] D D D D D [ q; [[ D D D D D D " D " ■ D ' D D D D DDDDDDDnnnnDDDDnnnDDDDnnDnaaDDna ^^6^/ .^ THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE, BOTANY, AND ALL USEFUL DISCOVERIES AND IMPKOVEMENTS IN RURAL AFFAIRS. " Je voudrais echauffer tout I'univers de mon gout pour les jardins. II me semble qu'il est impossible qu'un mechant puisse I'avoir. II n'est point de vertus que je ne suppose a celui que aime a parler et a faire des jardins. Peres de famille, inspirez a Jardinomanie a vos enfans." — Prince de Ligne. VOL. XXV. 1859. (vol. v., third series.) Edited by C. M. HOYEY. AUTHOR OF THE " FRUITS OF AMERICA." BOSTON: PUBLISHED BY HOVEY AND CO., MERCHANTS ROW. 1859. HENRY W. UUTTON AND SON, PRINTERS, 33 AND 35 COKOEESS STREET, BOSTON. / CONTENTS ORIGINAL COMMUNICATIONS. GEafERAL SUBJECT. The Progress of Horticulture. By the Editor, 1 Notes on Celebrated Gardens. By W. Flagg. 1. The Garden of Alcinous, . . 13 2. Pliny's Tuscan Villa, . . 58 3. Chinese Gardens, . . .109 4. King Solomon's Garden, . . 155 5. Tempe and Academia, . . 197 6. German Gardens, . . . 250 7. The Leasowes, . . .292 Rural Life in England. By ReT. A. D. Qridleyjl04 The Advantages of Underdraining. By Dr. E. G. Kelley 114 On certain Native Plants used as Substi- tutes for the Tea Plant. By Wilson Flagg, 215 The Topiary Art. By Wilson Flagg, . 266 Country Gentlemen. By Wilson Flagg, 313 Rural Sports. By Wilson Flagg, . . 341 Robins and Cherries. By Wilson Flagg, 357 Country Residences. By the Editor, 385 EfiTects of Climate on Vegetation. By Wil- son Flagg 391 Injuries to Vegetation by Ice. By W. Flagg, 400 Drought. By Wilson Flagg, . . .437 Nature's Rotations. By Wilson Flagg, 447 Rural Festivals. By Wilson Flagg, 487 The Frost and Foliage. By Wilson Flagg, 510 A Quarter of a Century. By the Editor. 629 Climate of New England. By Wilson Flagg, 536 HORTICULTURE. Apple Culture in Western New York. By the Editor, 49 The Hubbard Squash, its Characteristics, History, and Cultivation. By James J. H. Gregory, 62 Grapes In Connecticut. By B. S. Dewey, 66 Grafting with Fruit Buds. By the Editor, 97 Market Culture of the Strawberry around Boston. By W.J. Underwood, . .117 Autumnal Marrow Squash. By Jas. J. H. Gregory, 120 The Treatment of Hardy Grapes. By Col. D. S Dewey, 124 The American Pomological Society. By tho Editor, 145 How to increase the Size of Fruits. By A. Dubreuil 160 The Culture of Dwarf Pears. By the Editor, 193 Mr. Dana's Seedling Pears. By the Editor, 2U0 Dana's Hovey, America, Excelsior, Augustus Dana, Shawmut, Admirable. The Characteristic Forms of Pear Trees. By the Editor, 241 New Mode of Espalier Training. From the Revue Horticole, 449 Report on Strawberries By the Cincinnati Horticultural Society, .... 454 Considerations upon Pear Culture. By the Editor, 481 Descriptions of Select Varieties of Pears. By the Editor, 500 Henri Van Mons, Alexandrina, Doyenne Downing, Dnmont Dumortier. Strawberry Culture. By Robert Thompson, 506 Whv Fruits Crack. From theGard Chron., 544 Pomological Gossip, 67, 125, 165, 210, 253, 295, 345, 395, 441, 491, 541 ARBORICULTURE. Coniferse. By X., . . . .17 New England Shrubs. By Wilson Flagg. 1. The Hornbeams, The Small Willows, The Mulberry, The Laurels, . . 71 2. The Honeysuckles, The Bearberry, The Epigsea, The Crowberry, . . 139 3. The Virginia Creeper, The Staff Tiee, The Smilax, The Raspberry, . . 171 Ornamental Shrubs. By the Editor, . 289 Magnolia grandiflora. By E. N. Wilcox, 305 Pruning Ornamental Shrubs By the Editor, 433 Arboricultural Notices, 75, 133, 176 FLORICULTURE. The Rose. By Prof C. G. Page, 20, 129, 354 Spiraea grandiflora. By the Editor, . 24 Japan Lilies. By the Editor, . . . 77 Clianthus, or Glory Flower. By C. M. A,, 128 The Culture of German Stocks. From a German Paper, 135 The Pelargonium. By C. M. A., . . 185 Rhododendrons. From the Gard. Chron- icle, 218, 261, 298, 350 Achimenes. By the Editor, . . . 307 The Rose. By the Editor, . . .337 The Ivy-leaved Snapdragon. By the Editor, 361 Tritonia aurea and Tritoma uvaria. By the Editor, 402 Suburban Visits, 459 Mandevilla suaveolens. By the Editor, 548 Floricultural Notices, 80, 224, 270, 318, 363, 407, 614, 551 IV CONTENTS. LIST OF ENGRAVINGS. TREES AND PLANTS. fig. page. 1. Spiras^a grandiflora, . . . .25 47. Tritonia aiirea, 404 7. Torreya taxifolia. 9, Dwaif Horse-Chestnut, 46. iTy-leaved Snapdragon, 4. The Japan Lily, 6. Weeping Juniper, .... 181 8. Weeping; Larch, . . . .183 19. Adams Pear Tree, . . . .244 32. Bartlett Pear Tree, . . . .247 41. Beurr6 Beaumont Pear Tree, . . 248 21. " Clairgeau Pear Tree, . . 245 28. " Langelier Pear Tree, . . 246 26. " Sterckman Pear Tree, . . 246 37. Bloodgood Pear Tree, . . .247 31. Bonne des Zees Pear Tree, . . 246 15. Buffum Pear Tree, . . . .244 23. Colmar d'Aremberg Pear Tree, . . 245 22. Columbia Pear Tree, . . . .245 29. Duchesse d'Angouleme Pear Tree, . 246 36. Elizabeth Pear Tree, . . . .247 34. Flemish Beauty Pear Tree, . .247 33. Gansel's Bergamot Pear Tree, . . 247 24. Golden Beurre of Bilboa Pear Tree, . 245 35. Heathcot Pear Tree, . . . .247 16. Henlcel Pear Tree, . . . .244 43. Howell Pear Tree, . . . .248 42. Hull Pear Tree, . . . .248 25. Lawrence Pear Tree, . . . 245 38. Marie Louise Pear Tree, . . .248 49. Rostiezer Pear Tree, . . . .248 fig- page- 30. Seckel Pear Tree, . . . .246 18 Sheldon Pear Tree, . . . .244 17. St. Ghislain Pear Tree, . . .244 20. St. Mich Arch. Pear Tree, . . 244 39. Triomphe de Jodoigne Pear Tree, . 248 27. Urbaniste Pear Tree, . . .246 53. Mandevilla suaveolens, . . . 549 OPERATIONS. 45. Side Grafting Rhododendrons, . . 804 44. Wedge Grafting Rhododendrons, . 304 48. Espalier Training in Oblique Lines, 452 FRUIT. Pears. 50. Alexandrina, 603 13. Admirable, 208 12. America, 206 10 Dana's Hovey, 203 52. Dumont Dumortier, .... 505 51. Doyenne Downing, .... 504 11. Excelsior, 204 49. Henri Van Mons, . . . .501 14. Shawmut, 209 VEGETABLES. 2. and 3. Autumnal Marrow Squash, . 121 5. Hubbard Squash, . . . .63 LIST OF PLANTS. In the body of the Magazine, a few capitalizing the generic and specific n; rected is. the following list : — Lists of new Achimenes, Lists of new Azaleas, . List of new Carnations, List of new Caladiums, Lists of Chrysanthemums, List of Epacris, . List of Ericas, Lists of new Gladioli, . List of new Horseshoe Geraniums List of new Gloxinias, Lists of Pelargoniums, 189, 285 Lists of new Petunias, . 321, List of new Double Petunias, errors occur in the spelling of the botanical names, the imes, their derivation and accentuation j these are all cor- 407, Lists of Roses, 11, 91 92, 224, 333, 354, 369, 370,417,479,561 List of native Shrubs, .... 215 Lists of Spiraeas 25 26 Li.st of herbaceous Paeonies, . . .332 Lists of Sikkim Rhododendrons, . 352, 353 List of new Annuals, 430 List of Variegated-leaved Plants, . . 471 List of Coniferse 472 List of new Dahlias, 526 List of new Monthly Carnations, . .551 Li-t of Dahlias for 1859, . . . 562, 563 277 551 ,551 551 551 ,551 ,551 551 471 X^bies cedrus, 19 Achimenes margaretta. 312 Bambilsa metdke, nobilis. 460 meteor. 312 Begdaia Leopoldti, Kaj'mpferj, 461 picta. 312 Mad. Wagner, 320, Smithidna, 460 Parsonsn, 312 Marhdlltt, orientilis. 472 rosea magnifica. 312 picturita, PrinceTroubetzkoi,,320, Abronia umbellita. 430 violieea semi plena. 313 Alnltilon. insigne, 282 Acro.stichum alcicorne, 472 Rex, 273, 471, .AcJicia longifolia. 330 4di4ntum cuneitum, 285, 472 rosea carminata. ^^cer eriocirpum. 56 ^schyn^nthus cordifolia, 51-^ splendida argentea, japonicum atropurpu ^'sculu^ oalifornica, 83 Xanthina(var.)picti- ream. "l80 ^'sculus indica, 368 folia, 274, macrophyllum. 86 A^gave maculosa, 410 Berberis BeMi, Achimenes ara4bilis, 309 ,310 Jacquinidna, 272 Bigno'nia Chamberliynit, Belmontiensis, 310 Agapinthus umbellitus Bilbergta macrocilyx, carminita splendens. 3U var. variegita. 471 Biota meldensis, 18, 76, cupreata. 310 Allam^nda nerifoliii. 285 Brachychiton Bidwelli, chirita, 310 Ampeldpsis quinquefolia, 171 Bouv^rdia Hogarth, Ventonicnsis, 310 Ardisia crenulkta, 472 Laura, Eckhiutei, 311 fructo albo. 472 Oriana, fimbriita, 311 Arfeca sapida. 553 Rosalinda, gig4ntea, 311 Azilea indica var. Criterion, 226 CaldrHum pictum, Leighi, 311 Admiration, 226 atropurpureum, magnifica, 312 many species, 285, 330 Cilerhoe pedita, ,472 515 CONTENTS. Calliop-is Burrldg;7, Cdntun blcolor, C^prifolium periclymenum Carpinus americina, Ceanothus americina, Veitch?(i/ivs, Cedrus Libini, Celastrus scAndens, Cephalotaxus Fortiini, Cbrinthe gymn^ndra, Chatnfe^rops humilis, Cheirostemon platan6ides, 516 Chloris radiita, 430 Chrysanthemum carini- tum, Cineraria amelloides, Cissus discolor, Clematis lanuginosa, Clerodendron Bungei, Cli^nthus Dampierfi, magnltica, puniceus, Coliimnea sclndens, Coleus Blumei, 427 Oorydilis speciosa, 80 Crocosmi aiirea, 270 Croton pictum, 471 Tariegitum, _ 471 Cryptomeria Lobbi'i, 472 Cuphea Daniels/dna, 331 ; funebris, 472 'Lawsonm/ia, 18, 461, 472 Macnabidna, 18, 472 Cypripedium insigne, 330 DasyliriumHartwegfdnuw, 273 DaiiXra chlor4ntba, 413 Dendrooiecon rigidum, 516 Diinthus gigintea, 552 Hedwigg!, 552 hispdnicus splendens, 430 sinensis, 552 DieffcnbAchia maculita, 285, 471 Diosma cordifolia, 331 Diplacus glutinosus, 285 Dracae^na terminilis, 285, 471 Elychrysum argentum, 330 Epigae^a repens, 140 Epigynum leucobotrys, 367 Epilobium spicitum, 217 £rica propeiidenstubiflora, 330 several species and var. 330 Eugenia U'gni, 472 Exochorda grandiflora, 80, 365 Farftgium grinde, 285, 366, 419, 477 TmHa austrilis, 230 Fiichsire simplicicaiilis, 272 Gardfenia citriodora, 332, 552 Gaulthena hispidula, 141 prociimbens, 140 Gesnerf'a cinnabarina, 332, 367, 427 Donckelaerii, 81, 427 purpurea, 368 Goldfussia Thompson;', 411 Gustivta insignis, 81 Qymnopsis uniseriilis, 430 Gynura bicolor, 411 Hel^uittm atropurpureum, 430 flibiscus radiitus (var ) fl. parpureo, 273 ein.-nsis grandiflorus, 408 • HdTea tlelsii, 330 Hydr4ii^'eajap6nica Tarie- gita, 471 flyperli'um Kalmtdnum, 291 Juanull'ia eximia, 271 Jiiniperusoblongapeudula, 180 IAt'ix cfidrus, pendula, iaiirus benzoin, 19 182 73 73 i6dum latifoiium, 215 Lespedeza juncea, 178 Liboc^drus decurrens, 284 Xiliom canadense, 427 lancifolium, sp. and var., 470 philadelphicum, 427 Liniria cymbaliria, 862 LinnK^a boreilis, 142 iinum grandiflorum, 380 Lobch'a acuminita, 430 trigonocaiilis, 229 Lonicera hirsiita, 139 parvlflora, 139 iupinus Hartwegit caelesti- um, 430 Lycopodium apoda, 281 cae^sia, 281 denticul4ta, 281 formosa, 281 Galeotti, 281 Mertensij, 2S1 stolonifera, 281 WildenoviV, 281 Mandevilla suavfeolens, 548 Magnol/a conspicua, 331 grandiflora 805 Soulangemna, 831 Marantffi zebrina, 472 Mesembryinthemum po- meridium, 430 Meyena ereota, 226, 330 Mitchella repens, 141 Momordica mixta, 545 Monochjetum ensiferum, 515 Morndrdi Kalmwna, 216 AJorus 41ba, 73 rubra, 73 Monstera Adansontt, 229 Myosotidium nobile, 553 Naegelia multiflora, 228 Nepenthes yillosa, 228 Nierembergf'a filicau'lis, 285 CBnoth^ra bistorta Veitch- idna, 82 Drummondu nina, 430 OldenUndia Deppet, 427 Oncidium altissimum, 285 flexuosum, 285 Osbeckia ispera, 229 O'strya virginica, 72 Ouvir4ndra Bernertdna, 81 Pavf'a raacrottichya, 184 Passiflora Imperatice Eu- genia, 831 PawlovniVi, 92 Pennisetum longistilum, 430 Pentstemon centhranthi- folius, 554 Phormium tenax, 277 Philadelphus coronirius, 217 Phyllocactus angulyer, 274 Picea Nordm4n(a/ia, 472 Pinus cembra excelsa. 177 Plocostemma lasciantlium, 228 Populus tremula, 178 Priuos gliber, 216 Piinica granitum, 320 va. Madame Legrelle, 320 Qaercus mongolica, 177 /ihimnus daviirica, 178 Khipsalis sarmenticea, 552 iJhododendron barbitum, 413 Bylesi'dnu??!, 319 NuttdUi, 227 Rhododendron Shepherdt, 413 Smithii, 411 Wilsoni, 366 RhopaHa elegans, 471 Skinneri, _ _ 471 Rhyncospermum jasmi- noides, 285, 381 liibes aiireum, 127 Richdrdia africina, 553 ilbo maculita, 553 Biibus canadensis, 174 occidentilis, 175 odoritus, 175 pondosus, 174 sempervirens, 174 strigosus, 175 Tillosus, 174 53ilix ericephala, 73 nigra, 73 tristis, 72 Timinilis, 72 Sanseviera cylindrica, 271 Smilax herbacea, 173 rotundifolia, 173 Sonerilla margariticea, 367 56rbus aucupiria, 177 Spathodea campanulita, 270 Spergula pilifera, 232, 282 /Spiise^acallosa, 25 DouglAsit, 25 grandiflora, 24, 26, 80 prunifolia, 291 Sprigueo umbellita, 554 Stapbyl^a trifolia, 173 St4tice Bonduell?:, 430 Stephanotus floribundas, 285 Testudiniria elephAntipes, 473 Tetratheca yerticillita, 285 Th6a sinensis, al8 Thibaudia piilchra, 565 Thuja aiirea, 472 comp4cta, 472 Craigia'>na, 472 gigintea, 284 Hoveyi, 472 Lobbir, 18, 472 Menziesn, 18 occidentilis, 18 pendula, 472 plicita, 76 Biberica, 76 Warrea^'na, 76 Thujopsis boreilis, 76, 472 Thunbergj'a coccinea, 412 laurifolia, 226, 552, 565 natalensis, 228 Thyrsacinthus riitilans, 285 rilia cordita, 178 Torreya taxifolia, 181 Trachelium coeruleum, 427 Trillium erectum, 331 Tritoms Burchellt, 406 glaucescens, 406 serotina, 406 uTiria, 402, 514 Tritonia aiirea, 402 Tropae^lum Lobb?', 323 Tuchiadenus carinitus, 271 UvulAria grandiflora, 331 Facclnium macrocirpa, 142 Tids Idsea, 142 Veronica chamoe^drys, 217 officinilis, 217 Tieussiuxia glaucopis, 330 Vfnca m^jor variegata, 471 Visciria polv4ntha, 430 Flscum album, 178 Washingtonja gigdntea, 324 Wisteria sinensis, 321 CONTENTS. LIST OF FRUITS. APPLES. Diana, 6, 34, 66, 544 Boston, 150 Autumn Bough, 154 Garrigue's, 6 Brande's St. Germain , 147 Boxford, 39 Globe Seedling, 38 Brandywine, 147 Bro idwell, 164 Golden Hamburgh, 496 Buffum, 67,244 Carolina June, 155 Gros Gromier du Cantal, 499 Cabot, 149 Cayuga Red Streak, 53 Grizaly Frontignan, 499 Carlo Luzzatti, 88 Cogswell, Cooper's Redling, 155 Griffin's Royal Muscadine 499 Chancellor, 147 53 Hartford Prolific, 5, 34, 66, 125, Church, 150 Early Bough, 45 152 496 ,544 Collins, 147 Fall Pippin, 52 Hermitage, 88 Cohnar d'Aremberg, 245 Golden Russet, 54 Herbemont, 152 Nelis, 296 Hubbardston Nonsuch , 51 Isabella, 66, 153 495 Columbia, 245 John's Sweet, Jenning's Seedling, 36 Comte de Flanders, 147, 296 Jonathan, 155 Lady Downe's Seedling, 30 ,210 Conseilleur de la Cour, 147 Keswick Oodlin, 54 Lenoir, 544 Dana's HoTey, 202 Ladies' Sweet, 38 I,ogan, 6,35 152 Delices d'Hardenpont, 147 Ledge, 39 Lydia, 492 Democrat, 69 Melon, 67 Mammoth Seedling, 38 De Tongres, 41,296 Monmouth Pippin, 155 Merrick's Victoria Ham- Doyen Dillen, 296 Northern Spy, 51 burgh, 498 Doyenne d'Alencon, 147, 297 Ohio Nonpareil, 39 Mottled, 492 du Comice, • 41 Polliard, 39 Muscat of Eshcolata, 493 Downing, 504 Red Astrachan, 63 Mill Hill Hamburgh, 499 Goubault, 147 R. I. Greening, 55 Northern Muscadme, 544 SieuUe, 297 Smith's Cider, 39 Ontario, 126 Dumont Dumortier, 505 Bweet Bough, 53 Rebecca, 6, 34, 66, 152, 496 Duchesse d'Angouleme, 150, 245 Tolman Sweet, 53 Salamanna, 88 Easter Beurre, 256 Waggoner, 55,155 Taylor, 443 Elizabeth, 247 Washington, 39 Trebiana, 283 Emille d'Heyst, 148 Willis's Sweet, 155 Tokay, 88 Excelsior, 204 Union Village, 6,35,37 152, 544 Flemish Beauty, 247 BLACKBERRIES. Ureka, 563 Fondante de Charneuse, 148 Cutter's Mulberry, 397 Uva Troggui, 498 de Noel, 148 Dorchester, 33 WihningtoB, 6 Gansel's Bergamot, 150, 247 Holcomb. 397 York Maderia, 6 Gen. Totleben, 297 Lawton, ' 33 Golden Beurre of BUboa, 248 Washington, 397 NECTARINES . Graham's Bergamot, 69 Lewis, 46 Heathcot, 247 CHERRIES. Hebron, 398 Black Tartarian, 45 PEACHES. Heukel, 150, 244 Napoleon Bigarreau, 45 Ammirabile Belga, 88 Henri Van Mons, 501 Bergen's Yellow, 46 Hergeman, 150 CURRANTS. Bianci di Nizza, 88 HoweU, 67, 249 Blanc Transparente, 32, 154 Carpenter's White, 155 Hull, 149, 249 Champai^ne, 32 Karly Crawford, 68 KiDgsessing, 148 Cherry, 154 Late Crawford, 46 Kirtland, 148 Fertile d'Angers, 32 Pesca Mandorla, 88 Lawrence, 245 de Paillau, 32,184 Melo, 88 Limon, 148 Hatif de Bertin, 32 Valgaloggia Cologna, 88 Lodge, 148 La Caucase, 32 154, 422 Madame Eli?a, 41 La Versaillaise, 32, 45 154, 422 PEARS. Marie Louise, 248 Macrocarpa, 32 Adams, 146, 244 Medfield Beauty, 40 May's Victoria, 32 Admirable, 206 Merriam, .149 Red Dutch, 32 Alexandrina, 41 503 Monseigneur de Hons 256 R«d Gondoin, 32 Ammca, 205 Morgan, 541 White Dutch, 32 Barllett, 247 Moyamensing, 67 White Gondoin, 32 Belle Epine Dumas, 148 Nabours, 542 Bergamot August Jurie, 296 Ne Plus Meuris, 297 GRAPES. d'Ete, 296 Neuf Maison, 41 Allen's Hybrid, 6 Bergamotte Gaudry, 41 Niles, 148 Anna, 6, 544 Bergen, 150 Osband's Summer, 149 Black Morocco, 499 Bezy de Saint Waast, 296 Oswego Incomparable , 67 BuckUnd Sweet AVater, 3t)9 Bvurre Antoinette, 296 Ott, 149, 430 Canbv'8 August, 544 Apremont, 296 Philadelphia, 149 Cassidv, 544 Bachelier, 41 Premice's d'Ecully, 297 Catherine, 6 Beaumont, 248 Prof DubreU, 297 Cannon Hall Muscat, 519 Clairgeau, 146 ,244 Ravu, 256 Champion Hamburgh 71 de Lucon, 296 Rostiezer, 248 Charter Oak, Giffart, 147 Seckel, 67,246 Christi, 88 Oris d'Hiver, 150 Shawmut, 209 Clark's Seedling, 6 Hardy, 296 Sheldon, 67, 244 CUnton, 5, 35. 5H Mauxion, 41 Souvonir d'Esperin, 41 Concord. 5, 84, 66, 125, 162. Langelier, 246 Sterling, 150 395, 441, 496, 542, 544 Sterckmans, 147 246 296 Steven's Genesee, 149 Cuyahoga, 493 Superfin, 147 St. Michael Archange, 149,244 Delaware, 6, 37, 66, 152, 493, Bloodgood, 67 247 St. Ghislain, 244 496, 544 Bonnes dea Zees, 150,246 Striped Madeleine, 149 CONTENTS. vu Swan's Orange, 67, 148 Theodore Van Mons, 297 Triomphe de Jodoigne, 248 Tyson, 67 Urbaniste, 846, 297 Van Marum, 297 Zephirin Gregoire, 297 List of Pears, 41,296,474 List of Pears for Orchards, 57 List of Grafted Pear Trees for Walla, 103 PLUMS. Bine Imperatrice, 526 Columbia, 565 Jaune Hative, 428 Jefferson, 565 List of Plums not subject to the Black Knot, 420 RASPBERRIES. Allen, 154 American Red, 154 Bagley's Everbearing, 154 Catawissa, 32 Fastolf, 32 Fraaconia, 32 Hudson River Red Antwerp, 32 Knevet's Giant, 32 Thunderer, 154 White Antwerp, 32 STRAWBERRIES. Adair, 31, 446 Admiral Dundas, Ariadne, Barry's Extra, Black Prince, Black Incomparable, Bonte de St. Julien, Boston Pine, Brighton Pine, British Queen, 153, Burr's New Pine, Chorlton's Prolific, Cutter, Diadem, Doubleday's No. 3, Downer's Prolific, Due de MalakoS, Eliza, Elton Pine, Eclipse, Filbert Pine, Fillmore, Florence, Oermantown, Globose Scarlet, Hooker, Hovey's ?eedling, 71, 327, 328, 347, Imperial Scarlet, Jenny Lind, La Constance, Le Baron, Leopold, Longworth's Prolific, Malvlna, 446 Marquise La Tour MaubuTg, 31 ■"" McAvoy'B Superior, 119, 153, 497 119, 153 31, 446 446 118, 324, 422, 468 328 29,327 497 153 31 349 May Queen, Minerva, Montrose, Nimrod, Omar Pacha, Oscar, Page's Seedling, Peabody'e Seedling, Perfumed Pine, Primate, Prince's Excelsior, Prince Globose, Prince of Wales, Quinquefolia, Kival Queen, Scarlet Magnate, Scarlet Prize, Scott's Seedling, Sirius, Surprise, Triomphe de Gand, Trollope's Victoria, 2 Ward's Favorite, White Chilian, Wilson's Albany, Wonderful, Lists of strawberries. 446, 49T 446 445 444 31 153 446 446 445 328 329 153 329 446 153 ,153,235 163, 329, 347, 397 446, 49T 31,348, 445 List of Strawberries for Field Culture, 328 LIST OF VEGETABLES. Asparagus, 478 Beets, 477 Long Blood, 477 Broccoli, 477 Frogmore's Protecting, 477 Cabbages, 477 Drumhead, 477 Carrots, 477 Carrots, Long Orange, Short Scarlet, Cauliflower, Corn, Cottager's Kale, Purple, White, Rosewort Colewort, 477 Squashes, 62, 477 Hubbard, 63, 477, 564 Mammoth, 478 Marrow, 64, 121, 477 Turnips, 477 Purple Top, 477 LIST OF CORRESPONDENTS A. D G., 324 Barker, Daniel, 235 Brinckle, W. D , 420 Cabot, J. S., 28 CM. A., 128,185 Dewy, D. S 66, 124 Downing, Cha«., 171 Dubreuil,A., 160 Editor, 1. 24. 49, 67, 75, 77, 97, 125, 133, 145, 165, 176, 193, 200, 210. 224, 231, 241, 253. 270, 281. 282, 275, 289, 292 307, 318. 324, 337, 345, 361, 363, 385, 402, 407, 421, 433, 441, 459, 468, 481, 491, 500, 514, 529, 541, 544, 565 Flagg, Wilson, 13, 58, 71, 109, 139, 155, 171, 197, 215, 251, 266, 292, 318, 341, 357, 391, 400, 437, 447, 487, 510, 536 Gregory, J. J. H , Gridley, Rev. A. D Harri.s F L, . Heaver, W., . J. J. S., . Kelly, E.G., . Kionicott, J. A , Page, I'rof C 6., Prince, Wm. R., Rivers, T., S., . Scott, B. R., . Thompson, Robert, Underwood, W. J Wilcox, E. N., X., . 62, 120 . 104 . 179 . 235 . 235 , . 114 382, 519 b,' .20, 129, 354, 421 420, 422 68 170 234,422 . 506 . 117 . 305 .17,284 GENERAL INDEX. Achimenes, Apple Culture in Westsrn New York, Apples for Wisconsin, . Boot-grafting, A Quarter of a Century, Arboricultural Notices, . Arbor Vitae, the Siberian, . 529 75, 133, 176 , . 76 Vlll CONTENTS. Books,— American Weeds and Useful Plants, 278 DowniDg'g Landscape Gardening, 275 Farm Drainage, .... 279 Langstroth on the Honey Bee, . 279 Statistical View of Agriculture, . 280 Chrysanthemums, .... 26 Culture of, 230 Culture of Pompone, in pots. Cinerarias and Chrysanthemums, Climate and Cultivation, Effects of, Climate of New England, College, Agricultural, New York, Country Gentlemen, .... 373 Residences, .... Coniferae, 17 Cuttings, New Mode of Striking, . . 322 Drought, Evergreens and Shrubs, the Newer, Floricultural Notices, 80, 224, 270, 318, 363, 407, 540, 551 Fortune, Mr., Medal to, . . 280 Fruit in Covent Garden Market, Price of, 465 Premium Essays for, ... 468 Fruits, American, in England, . . 67 How to increase the Size of, . . 160 Wounds in, 562 Why they Crack, .... 544 Frost and the Foliage, . . . 510 Garden, Cottage, A Belgian's Notion of, 466 Gardens, — Capt. W. R. Austin's, ... 462 Kew 416 H. H. Hunnewell's, ... 459 Missouri Botanical, . . . 423 Notes on Celebrated, 13, 58, 109, 155, 197, 250, 292 Gardening, Landscape, Sargents' editioa of, 133 Geraniums, New Bedding, . . . 363 Gladioli, 416 Glass, Destroying the Transparency of, 562 Grafting, Root, 70 with Fruit Buds, .... 97 Herbaceous, 322 Grape Borders, Carrion, . . • 83 Ringing the, 253 Vine, Grafting the, .... 283 Grapes, New, 491 in Connecticut, .... 66 in Pennsylvania, . . . , 544 and other Fiuit, Exhibition of, in Italy, 87 Treatment of Hardy, ... 124 Grass Lawns, New Substitute for, . 282 Greenhouses on the Ascending Principle, 94 Horticulture, Progress of, . . . 1 Horticultural Operations — January 47 July, . . 335 February, 94 August, . 383 March, 142 September, . 431 April, 190 October, . 479 May, 239 November, . 527 June, 287 December, . 567 Hyacinth, Culture of, . . . . 380 Hydrangeas, Blue, .... 465 Illinois, the Season and Fruit in, . . 381 Insects, 87 Libraries, Need in our, ... 190 Lily, The Gigantic, Blooming of, . . 225 Lilies, The Japan, .... 77 Manure, New Kind of, . . . . 522 Maple, Japan, 180 New Weeping, .... 179 Nature's Rotations, .... 447 Obituary 478, 565 Orchard Vinery, History of, . . . 555 Pawlovnia, Flowering in the Greenhouse, 92 Pear Blight, 522 Pear Culture, Contiderations upon, . 481 A Desperate Case, . . 233 218, 261, 298, 350 . . . 357 318 20, 129, Pear Trees, the Characteristic Forms of, Pears, Culture of Dwarf, . . 125 Descriptions of Select Varieties, Dwarf, Large, How to Cook, .... Mr. Dana's Seedlings, New Seedlings in England, New Mode of Ripening, . Ripening and Keeping, . Pelargonium, the, Plants, the Introduction of the Tea. Lilliputian, How to Grow, Natives used as Tea, Plums not subject to Black Knot, Pine, New Weeping White, . Pomological Congress of Lyons, France, Pomological Gossip, 67, 125, 165. 210, 253 395, 411, 491, Progress of 30 Years, .... Red Spider, Remedy for. Rhododendrons, . Robins and Cherries, Rose, Isabella Gray, The, Great Exhibition of, . '. Roses, Cloth of Gold and Isabella Gray, Extraordinary Budding of, in General, New American, .... New and Old, Soil and Compost for, , Rural Festivals, Life in England, .... Seeds from the Patent Ofllce, . . 93 Shrubs, New England, . . .71, 139, Ornamental, Pruning Ornamental, Society, American Pomological, 126 American Institute, . . 328, British Pomological, . . 445, Belmont Farmers' Club, California Horticultural, Hartford County Horticultural, Illinois State Horticultural, . London Horticultural, . . 165, Mass. Horticultural, 27, 236, 284, 329, 469, 5'i5, Annual Election, Finance Committee, Report of, Fruit Committee, Report of. . Opening of the Hall, Rose Show, 3l8t Annual Exhibition Snapdragon, the Ivy-leaved, Squash, Autumnal Marrow, The Hubbard. Strawberry Culture in France, Market Culture of, . Strawberries, English, for Forcing, Experience in Culture, . Large Crops of. New, .... in California, . Report of, ... Spruce, New Weeping Norway, Stocks, Culture of German, . Tomatoes, French Mode of raising. Topiary Art, the, . Training, New Mode of Espalier, Trees, Decortication of. Fine.'it Ornamental, for Avenues, Transplanting Large Evergreen, and Shrubs, New Hardy, Underdraining, Advantages of. Vegetation, Injuries to from Ice, Vines, Budding, Watering, Underground, 523 497 348 117 235 467 71 421 323 454 178 135 449 281 85 559 176 114 410 417 518 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. THE PROGRESS OF HORTICULTURE. The year just passed has not been signalized by that gen- eral enthusiasm in regard to horticultural progress which had marked those which preceded it. The depression of trade and manufactures throughout the country has had a sensible effect upon the cultivation of the arts and sciences, and more especially upon that science which contributes in so great a degree to the luxuries, rather than the necessities, of life. Not only do such derangements in the commercial world affect the pecuniary means of the people, and compel them to cut off the expenditure of their resources in the completion of beautiful gardens and grounds, but they absorb so much of their attention that, for a time, all the pleasures arising from their possession are neglected or forgotten, and the latent taste, just being developed, is lost, perhaps, not again to be renewed. Such, to a certain extent, has been the case the past year ; but few beautiful suburban dwellings have been erected, few fine gardens laid out, few greenhouses and graperies con- structed, and few grounds richly ornamented and planted, compared with preceding years ; and though the year closed with more interest in horticulture than it opened, there has not been that zeal and real interest prevalent which the ardent lover of rural improvement could wish to record. All this, however, we trust is but transient, to be followed with a re- vival of business everywhere, with a deeper interest in horti- cultural advancement than our country has yet witnessed. Certainly there is no reason, with the well known and pro- verbial enterprise and industry of our people — and their increasing love for the beautiful in nature and art — why we VOL. XXV. — NO. I. 1 Z THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. should not attain the same elevation in the scale of horticul- tural science which characterizes Great Britain and the Con- tinent. Already, in the more material article of fruit, the excellence of our climate, united with the energies of our cultivators, has placed us first in the possession of the finest varieties. And we need but the same interest in the more fanciful but still not less important branch of floricul- ture to render ourselves independent of all other countries, in the production of beautiful varieties, and skill in the art of their cultivation. We pass over, as briefly as possible, a record of the weather during the year, wliich has been rather unfavorable through- out the country. The month of January was much warmer than the average. It commenced very mild, with the thermometer at 33°, and with scarcely any frost in the ground. On the 6th, five inches .of snow fell, and on the 8th the mercury fell to 3°. After ihis, it was quite mild again up to the 23d, when the temper- ature fell to 7°. The remainder of the month was showery, rainy and mild. February was but little colder than January. The ther- mometer ranged from 18° to 30° up to the 12tli, when it fell to 7° ; the 13th, 4°. The following week was cooler. On the 19th, the thermometer fell to 2°. Tlie 20th, six inches of snow fell, and on the 24th the temperature reached the low- est point during the winter, viz., 2° below zero. The few remaining days were mild, with the thermometer as high as 44 degrees. March was the coldest and most disagreeable month of the season. The 1st was mild, rainy. On the 2d, five inches of snow fell, and on the 4th it was cold again, with the temper- ature at 2° ; the 5th and 6th at 1°, and very cool up to the 11th. The snow then began to disappear, under a more genial sky and higher temperature. The 17th was the warm- est day, with the thermometer 60° at noon. After this, there was very little change to the end of the month, which was fine and mild. April began very mild, with the thermometer as high as 70° on the 2d. On the 7th it was cool and frosty, and con- JANUARY. 3 tinned cool for a week. The 19th it was cool again, with white frost. Rain then set in, and the remainder of the month was cloudy, rainy or showery, and quite cool for the season, with the thermometer from 30° to 34°. May opened very cool ; on the 3d, the temperature was only 30°, and there was a heavy frost, with the peaches just expanding their flowers. Showery and rahiy weather, with cool east winds, prevailed up to the 17th, when there was another heavy white frost. The remainder of the month, with few exceptions, continued cool, rainy and showery, with slight frosts on the 29th and 30th. The month of June commenced very favorably, with fine warm weather, and the thermometer at 95° on the 10th. On the 11th it was cool again, and very heavy rains fell on the 12th and 15th. After this, the weather was seasonable to the end. With July came another change ; the weather was cool and fair up to the 7th, when the warmest week of the year followed. On the 10th the temperature reached 100°, the only day of the summer when it exceeded 95°. A change on the 12th brought the thermometer suddenly down to 68°, a difference in one day of 42°. The remainder of the month was very cool for July. August was no improvement on July. It was cool, rainy or showery, with the liighest range of the thermometer 85°, and the lowest only 41° on the 24th. September was finer, and the early part warmer than the last of August. On the 15th it was stormy, with a very high wind, which did much damage to trees and crops. After this, it was cool, with white frosts on the 23d and 25th, which slightly injured dahlias and other tender plants. The month of October was the most pleasant of the year, and without much frost as late as the 26th, when the ther- mometer fell to 26°, and froze the ground an inch deep, on precisely the same days and the same temperature of October, 1857. November proved no exception to the other months. It was, we believe, the coolest November for many years. Twenty-five days out of thirty, the thermometer fell below 4 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. the freezing point. On the 10th it was 19°, with the ground froze quite hard. Subsequently it was cool, cloudy and stormy, with some snow. December brought no change. Every morning but one, up to the time we write, (18th), the temperature has been below 32°, with alternate cloudy, stormy weather, and scarcely a fine day. On the 10th, the temperature fell to 9°. Since the 10th of November, the weather has been decidedly cold and wintery. The season has not been a favorable one for fruit. Through- out the West and Middle States the apple crop was nearly an entire failure. In New England, it was nearly up to the average. The pear from some cause, probably the frosty nights of May — for the trees never gave a greater promise — failed of its abundant annual crop. In some localities the produce was excellent ; but generally not more than half the usual quantity. Peaches, cherries and even plums shared the same fate as the pears. While in the neighborhood of Boston the peach crop was tolerably abundant, in the great peach-growing regions of New Jersey and Delaware there was a great scarcity of fruit. The smaller fruits, such as the strawberry, currant, &c., produced plentifully, and, favored by the cool and moist season, the crop was larger and better than usual. Grapes generally failed to ripen, except the newer kinds. The experience of the year has shown the value of the Concord, Hartford Prolific, Diana, &c., which have, with very few exceptions, ripened their crop everywhere ; while the Isabella and Catawba, even in tolerably favored localities, have only attained to medium ripeness, and in unfavorable situations have entirely failed. Last year was equally disastrous, and thus, for two successive seasons, have these old sorts proved unsuitable and comparatively worthless. HORTICULTURE. The most prominent subject of interest the past year has been the same which caused so much discussion in the jour- nals of the previous one, and which we took occasion to refer to in our last annual summary, viz., the culture of the pear on the quince. Numerous articles have been published JANUARY. 5 against the growth of dwarf pears by the same writers who attempted to enlighten the public previously, and with about the same amount of knowledge which characterized their earlier communications. The most curious phase of this discussion is, that some of the writers who have been so furi- ous against the extensive growth of dwarf pears, showing them up as an entire failure, now assert that they have had the same opinion in regard to their value as ourselves ! Well, if our readers and the public so understand it, we shall only be too glad to have it known that there are no longer any op- ponents of dwarf pear-growing, though they may draw their practice from the editorial sanctum, or anywhere else but among the trees themselves. Writing fancifully on such topics is all very well to fill the columns of a magazine, but those who read to learn, if they do not see through such chaff, can have no fault to find if pears are a scarce commod- ity in their fruit-room. We are pleased to know that all this " noise and confusion" comes from a locality where the mar- ket is bare of pears, and where it is likely to be, unless sent there from this neighborhood, or some other locality where the cultivators have a higher appreciation of dwarf trees. Perhaps no other subject deserves more prominence next to pear culture than the introduction of new grapes, both hardy and tender. The latter are less subjects of general interest than the former, because they can only be raised by those who possess a grapery or greenhouse ; yet, as there are large quantities of grapes grown under glass, even the intro- duction of new varieties of superior quality must create an interest of no little importance. Hardy grapes, however, appeal to the interest of every individual in the country, for there is no enclosure so small, or land so poor, that a grape vine may not be planted, and a larger or smaller quantity of fruit produced. Such was not the case before the introduc- tion of the Concord and Hartford Prolific, two varieties which place this healtliy and delicious fruit within the reach of every person throughout the United States, however so far north he may reside. Cultivators in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and Minnesota need no longer grow wild grapes or the Clinton, or else do without this fruit. It was one of 6 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. the most gratifying evidences of a recognition of a valuable fruit to hear sucli hearty commendations of the Concord as were given by members of the recent Pomological Conven- tion, from all parts of the country. When we first figured and described this grape, we were quite sure it would supply the want, so long felt, of a hardy, vigorous, early, prolific and excellent grape, and we repeat, it was gratifying to have our opinion so heartily concurred in. But what shall we say of the more recent acquisitions to this fruit, and to what will these improvements lead ? The Diana, Delaware and Rebecca are already familiar to all. But, besides these three, we have the Anna and Allen's Hybrid, both apparently most decided acquisitions ; and of others less known, but which are of good report, the Union Village, Catherine, Clark's Seedling, Logan, Wilmington, York Ma- deira, Garrigue's, &c., which give great variety in color, as well as in flavor and general appearance of the fruit. Other new seedlings we have some notes of, but we deem it better to defer an account of them till another fruiting season is over. Our cultivators may feel proud of what they have already achieved, without looking forward to the rich harvest which is in store for the indefatiga])le and persevering grape- grower. Though we dismissed the subject of foreign grapes rather summarily, it was not because we do not value the advance- ment which has been made, but because personally we have no knowledge of their quality, and our pages have already recorded all the information we have been able to procure. What we do know is, that there is room for improvement in our present stock of grapes. It is a long time since any very marked variety has been added to our collections, and we see no reason why we should not have free setting, large and showy grapes as good as the Cannon Hall. The Bowood Muscat and Gold Hamburgh will probably fruit with some of our grape-growers the present year, and an opportunity be offered to test the fruit. The Lady Downe's has proved itself a valuable acquisition. Orchard-house culture is attracting very great attention in Great Britain, and we have, from time to time, presented our JANUARY. 7 readers with the views of cultivators in regard to their value and importance. It is undoubtedly a happy idea for the cli- mate of England, where even the pear is a precarious crop. In our own country, we have less need of resorting to this somewhat expensive mode of fruit culture, where, with the exception of the peach, nectarine and apricot, we may rely upon a good crop. This is the view, we apprehend, that most individuals would take of orchard culture here. We confess this has been our opinion ; but after reading all that has been written we begin to think we have been hasty in our conclu- sions, and have valued orchard houses too little. When we consider how cheaply such structures can be erected, and the variety of fruits that may be cultivated, as well as the cer- tainty of the crop and the early maturity which may be ob- tained by a slight expense in forwarding the trees in March and April, we are ready to admit that, to those who have the means, an orchard house is a most decided addition to every garden, and will, we think, become so when its advantages are fully considered. For the peach, the fig, the nectarine, the apricot, and the foreign grape, it is certainly the only means of insuring an annual crop of these delicious fruits. So believing, we shall in our present volume devote more attention to this novel and pleasant mode of cultivating some of our best fruits. Ringing the grape vine, in order to induce early maturity, has recently attracted considerable attention and led to numer- ous experiments among the English and continental grape growers, as well as among our own amateurs, and some very remarkable specimens of grapes grown on ringed vines have been exhibited before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society ; one, a bunch of the Isabella, we may truly say was a prodigy of growth. The cluster was not over large, weighing about a pound, but the grapes were as large as plums, and matured some time before those grown on vines not ringed. At the same time that we state this in regard to the results of ring- ing upon the appearance of the fruit, we must admit that the quality was not quite equal to that on the unexperimented vines ; but the difference was slight, and would not be consid- ered against the advantages which the ringing process prom- ises. 8 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. Two novel modes of training trees, particularly the pear, have been described in our last volume, from that fertile source of invention in tree training, the French. We should be glad to see these tried on a larger or smaller scale, and report the results in our pages. For small gardens they ap- pear to be deserving of introduction. Passing from fruits and the science of culture to the no less important, but more familiar subject of vegetable growth, we cannot omit to speak of the value of the introduction of the Chinese yam (Dioscorea), which, notwithstanding all that has been said against it, and its denouncement as a humbug, (fee, is destined, not in all probability to supersede the potato, but to take its place along with it at our tables, and become an indispensable esculent, when once its delicate and peculiar flavor is appreciated. For our own part, we think we should be willing to discard the potato, and sub- stitute the yam. As regards its cultivation and profitable growth, tlie question is already solved. It has been proved in England that as many tons can be grown to the acre as the potato, and with this advantage, that it is perfectly hardy, and the roots may remain out through the winter without the least injury. At the late exhibition of the London Hor- ticultural Society, in October last, " one feature of great importance," says Dr. Lindley, " was the great display of roots of the Dioscorea batatas, produced in reply to the invitation of Mr. Cutbush of High gate, [who offered pre- miums]. The hardiness of the plant has been established. Remained the question whether it could be cultivated profit- ably. The answer is, unmistakably yes, in intelligent hands. The finest one-year old roots came from Messrs. Ivery of Dorking, and were two feet long and weighed two pounds each. Others were larger, but they had been in the ground two years." Such is the opinion of this new vegetable in England. Some very large specimens have been exhibited before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and there is no doubt both as regards its excellence and the profitableness of the crop. We commend it to the attention of everybody who loves a delicious esculent. We have scarcely space to refer to some other vegetables JANUARY. 9 of recent introduction, among which are the Hubbard squash; our pages have recorded all that is new or deserving of attention. FLORICULTURE. While abroad there has been more than usual zeal mani- fested in the magnificent exhibitions which have been held the past year, there has been a less degree of interest at- tached to our own than heretofore. The London Horticul- tural, and the Royal Botanic Societies, have greatly increased the attractiveness of their exhibitions, by an increased num- ber of prizes ; and the Crystal Palace has attempted to sur- pass them both by fetes of more than usual splendor. All have been well attended, and a fresh impetus given to plant culture in Great Britain, by the display of such remarkable specimens of the gardener's skill, and such zeal in the in- troduction of new and highly ornamental specimens. One new and most interesting feature of these shows has been the exhibition of ornamental and variegated foliaged plants, which have a most striking effect when judiciously grouped. So great has become the interest in these plants, that the attention of collectors has been especially directed to their introduction, and some of the recent acquisitions surpass all previously known. Even some of the finest flow- ering plants fail to call forth the admiration which these singularly foliaged plants excite. All who have seen the splendid specimens of Cissus discolor, which have been promi- nent objects at the exhibitions of the Massachusetts Horticul- tural Society the two past years, can form some idea of the general aspect and beauty of these plants, which should be more generally introduced into all choice collections. We can only hope that more encouragement will be given to their cultivation by our horticultural societies, by the offer of liberal premiums for their exhibition. Among the somewhat neglected objects of the flower gar- den are the herbaceous pseonies, which, in their present improved state, deserve especial attention. Delighted with the variety and beauty of these magnificent productions, we have endeavored, in an article in our last volume, to bring 10 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. theiii before our amateurs, that they might be properly appre- ciated. We know of nothing in the whole catalogue of gar- den plants more attractive than a collection of these paeonies", which enliven the garden with their immense flowers, of almost every hue, throughout the month of June. And we may also speak a word for the Tree pseonies, which are yet rare in most gardens. With less variety in color than the herbaceous kinds, they present, in their shrubby character, attractions which the former do not possess, being adapted to the border, the shrubbery, and the lawn. When grown as single objects or in groups, their huge flowers become the most prominent features of the grounds. Early bloomers, perfectly hardy, no garden, however small, should be without them. It is pleasant to record a more general appreciation of our splendid native plants, the Rhododendron, Kalmia, Azalea, Magnolia, &c., which are now being more freely introduced into our gardens. With a view to aid this increasing love for the most attractive of all plants, and removing the objec- tions which are frequently urged against their cultivation, we have devoted an article of some length to their manage- ment, showing the ease and facility by which all such objec- tions may be overcome, and the American plants introduced into any garden, no matter how unsuited the natural soil. Though there are thousands, if not tens of thousands, of these plants grown in England to one in our own gardens, yet the question has been asked, in one of the most prominent London gardening periodicals, " why American plants are not more generally cultivated." How much more pertinent the question would be here, we need not stop to inquire. With the introduction of the Sikkim rhododendrons, some of which come from localities so elevated that they are found amidst snow and ice, we trust a new race of hybrids may be raised with onr well-known catawbiense, which will add some of the brilliancy, as well as the fragrance, which render the former such magnificent objects. So many of the forty or fifty new species have been described in our volumes, that we have only to refer to them for information in regard to their beauty. For the conservatory they are superb objects ; for, in addition JANUARY. 11 to their very large flowers, they add a perfume which at once gives them attractions no previously known kinds possessed. The Rose, the most beautiful of all flowers, appears the past year to have gained additional laurels, if such were need- ed, by the grand display made at the National Rose Show in London in July last. Such an exhibition had never before been seen. The Perpetual roses were shown in all their splendor, and such acquisitions as Geant de Betailles, Jules Margottin, General Jacqueminot, Lord Raglan, &c., were fully appreciated. The Rose Show of the Massachusetts Hor- ticultural Society in June last was a very fine display, falling off" somewhat in perpetuals, which are not yet cultivated to the same extent as the June roses. Time only is wanting to enable our amateurs to bring them forward in the same per- fection which they have been exhibited abroad. The newer acquisitions are truly superb ; and to what the present rage for new roses will lead it would be impossible to state ; but in all probability they will be as varied in time, as any class of plants which we possess. Tlie Gladioli, which we have already noticed as being so highly attractive, are occupying the care and assiduity of the French florists. Already the catalogues contain more than one hundred varieties of almost every shade of color. There appears to be no limit to their sportiveness. Some of the newer varieties resemble in their, peculiar tints the finer orchids, so beautifully pencilled and shaded are the tints and colors. No garden plant, unless we except the Japan Lilies, deserve to be more generally cultivated. A reference to our Ploricultural notices of the past year will be sufficient to indicate which are the new plants which have been introduced, or are worthy of introduction, ARBORICULTURE. The interest in ornamental tree culture is gradually ex- tending, and we have endeavored to aid in the work as far as possi!)le. Evergreen or Coniferous trees are becoming espe- cial objects with many amateurs, and all the finer species are being introduced and tried in our severe climate. Unfor- tunately only a portion of them can be expected to prove 12 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. sufficiently hardy for general culture. Such as will, how- ever, stand unharmed it is well to know, and every lover of these beautiful trees will feel deeply indebted to those who are persevering in their efforts to introduce them. Our ob- ject will be to make known as speedy as possible all that have undergone this trial. Our neglected American shrubs, many of which are not surpassed by any exotic species, have been well described by our correspondent, Mr. Flagg. All who appreciate them, or desire to know what ■ their real merits are, need but peruse his accurate descriptions as delineated in our last volume, and to be continued in our present one. The importance of Tree culture has led us to devote more space than usual to the subject, and our past volume contains several valuable articles on Forest Tree Culture, Ornament- ing the Farm, Embellishing our Homes, Encouraging Young Planters, and Hedges and Hedging ; to each of them we may refer all who have not already given them their attention. A fresh interest will be imparted to this subject by the publication of a new edition of Downing's Landscape Gar- dening, edited by H. W. Sargent, Esq., of Fishkill, N. Y. Mr. Sargent is every way qualified for the task, possessing himself one of the finest collections of Coniferae in the coun- try, as well as ornamental trees generally ; and the appear- ance of the work we hope will infuse greater zeal among all who feel the least interest in ornamental tree culture and landscape beauty. LANDSCAPE GARDENING. We have little to note in Landscape Gardening during the year, besides the commencement of the Central Park in New York, the work of which is progressing with considerable rapidity. What the merits of the plan to be carried out are we have no means of knowing, not having seen any but a copy on a very small scale in the Gardeners' Chronicle, where a writer reviews it at some length. From what we can learn there is to be too much attempted ; that the whole park is to be too much cut up, and that there is to be such an immense extent of cultivated ground and garden, as to render the JANUARY. 13 keeping of it in proper order a task of great labor, and an expense which even New York city, with all its wealth, can hardly be able to afford. It is the first attempt, on a large scale, of Landscape Gardening in the country. HORTICULTURAL LITERATURE. The publications of the year have been few, but of consid- erable interest. The most important have been Hedges and Evergreens, by Dr. Warder, and Pear Culture, by T. W. Field, both reviewed in our last volume. Professor Gray has published two valuable works : one, How Plants Grow, and the other. Structural and Systematic Botany. The Farmer's Practical Architect, by Mr. J. H. Hammond. The Transac- tions OF THE Massachusetts State Board of Agriculture, by C. L. Flint. Dr. Fitch's invaluable Reports of the Insects of New York continue to appear in the Transactions of the N. Y. State Agricultural Society, the volume for last year having just been received. Three new Gardening Journals have appeared, one in New York, one in Philadelphia, and the CuLTURiST in California. The Horticulturist is now pub- lished by Mr. C. M. Saston, New York, who has become the proprietor. NOTES ON CELEBRATED GARDENS. BY WILSON FLAGG. One of the earliest gardens of which any account is extant, either in history or poetry, is that of Alcinous, as described in the Odyssey. Alcinous was king of the Phgeacians, in the island of Corcyra, famous for planting and gardening. All the luxuries of this garden consist in order, symmetry, fer- tility of soil, the fruitfulness of its trees and shrubs, and its remarkable fountains. It is indeed exactly, as the Abbe de Lille remarks, what one would desire who wishes to enjoy and not to exhibit his garden. I will give the description in a free translation in prose, as being more intelligible than verse. After describing the court and the palace of Al- 14 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. cinous, the poet gives the reader the following account of his garden : — Near the gates of the palace is situated a spacious garden, defended bj walls and trees from the winds and tempest. The whole area is about four acres, which is fenced with a green enclosure on all sides, (probably a belt of trees, like those which were introduced into English gardening by the celebrated Brown.) This enclosure must have been admira- bly adapted to defend the garden from the entrance of bleak and stormy winds, as the author intimates that it was perfectly guarded from the vicissitudes of the weather. Tall and beautiful trees, continues the poet, bore witness of the fruitfulness of the soil ; here apples ripened with crim- son and gold ; figs attained the most delicious plumpness ; the pomegranate glowed with a deep red ; pear trees drooped with the weight of their juicy fruit, and the olive flourished all the year round in perpetual verdure. The balmy western gales breathed constantly on fruits that never failed, when the harvest invited, to reward the diligent hand that gathered them. A constant succession of fruits was obtained by plant- ing some for every month of the year. The same season that caused the flowers to bloom, was attended by the ripening of some delicious fruit ; for all climes had been searched, and the productions of every country had been borrowed, to per- fect a series that should not be broken. The vines likewise occupied a conspicuous place in the grounds, and appear in equal ranks with all the united pro- duce of the year. Hence there was constant employment for the fruit gatherers : some plucked the grapes from the branches, some dried their purple clusters in the sun ; others were employed in pressing the fruit of the vine in wine presses, and preserving the liquid nectar in vessels. The vines are made to bear a succession of fruits : while some in one bed wore in early flower, in another the fruit was formed but not ripened ; in a third the fruit was fully mature, and glowing with the deep purple of autumn. The fountains played an important part in this royal gar- den, not to spout an unmeaning spray into the atmosphere for the amusement of children ; they were conducted through JANUARY. 15 all parts of the garden to adorn the scene and to irrigate the land. After their devious course was spent, in their progress through the garden, they were allowed to pass out and water the city. Thus they were made first to pour their beneficent waters upon the gardens of the palace, and afterwards to ex- pend their favors upon the city and its inhabitants. The hanging gardens of Babylon deserve notice in this connection, though I am not aware that there is extant any particular account of their productions. The epithet " hang- ing," as applied to these structures, is liable to mislead the reader : they were elevated, not suspended. They were built at the time when the city of Babylon had reached the summit of its magnificence under Nebuchadnezzar. The ruins of these hanging gardens existed six hundred years after their completion, and greatly astonished Alexander at his entrance into Babylon. The hanging gardens, according to Diodorus, contained a square of four plethra, which is about four hundred feet, on every side, and were carried up aloft into the air, in the form of several large terraces, till the height equalled that of the walls of the city. The ascent was from terrace to terrace, by stairs ten feet wide. The whole pile was sustained by vast arches, raised one above another, and strengthened by a wall, surrounding it on every side, of twenty-two feet thickness. On the top of the arches were first laid large flat stones, sixteen feet long and four broad ; over these was a layer of reeds, mixed with a great quantity of bitumen, upon which were two rows of brick closely cemented together with plaster. The whole was covered with thick sheets of lead, upon which lay the mould of the garden, which was so deep that the greatest trees might take root in it ; and with such the ter- races were covered, as well as with all other plants and flowers that were proper for a pleasure garden. In the upper part was a sort of hydraulic engine, by which the water was drawn up out of the river, and from this the whole garden was watered. In the spaces between the several arches, upon which the whole structure rested, were large and magnificent apartments that were very light, and had the advantage of a beautiful prospect. Amytis, the wife of Nebu- 16 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTUEE. chadnezzar, was the daughter of Astyages, king of Media, and felt an attachment to the woody and pastoral scenes of her native country. These gardens and structures were erected by Nebuchadnezzar for her gratification, that the city of Babylon might afford her some recompense for her privations. The Garden of Eden and the Gardens of the Hesperides are not to be regarded as historical facts. The first appears to be a sort of allegorical account of the land in which Adam and Eve were first placed. The vast extent of this garden is made manifest from the statement that " a river went out of Eden to water the garden : and from thence it was parted and became into four heads," or river branches. Each of these rivers watered some vast country — one was said to com- pass the whole land of Havilah ; a second the whole land of Ethiopia ; the third watered Assyria, and the fourth river was no less than the river Euphrates ! In this garden grew " every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food ; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil." The last seems to have been a sort of moral Bohon Upas to the human family, and a tree that belongs to the department of theology rather than of natural history. The popular ideas of the Garden of Eden are derived from the Paradise Lost of Milton, who uses the poetic license of describing it^ scenes and productions in the way which was most agreeable to his own imagination. The paragraph that contains this account seems to be rather a description of a beautiful scene in nature than of a garden : — " Crisped brooks, Rolling on orient pearl and sands of gold, With mazy error under pendent shades. Ran nectar, visiting each plant, and fed Flowers worthy of Paradise, which not nice Art In beds and curious knots, but Nature boon Poured forth profuse on hill and dale and plain, Both where the morning sun first warmly smote The open field, and where the unpierced shade Embrowned the noontide bowers: thus was this place A happy rural seat of various view ; JANUAEY. 17 Groves whose rich trees wept odorous gums and balm ; Others whose fruit, burnished with golden rind, Hung amiable, Hesperian fables true, If true, here only, and of delicious taste: Betwixt them lawns, or level downs, and flocks Grazing the tender herb, were interposed, Or palmy hillock ; or the flowery lap Of some irriguous valley spread her store. Flowers of all hue, and without thorn the rose: Another side umbrageous grots and caves Of cool recess, o'er which the mantling vine Lays forth her purple grape, and gently creeps Luxuriant ; meanwhile murmuring waters fall Down the slope hills, dispersed, or in a lake, That to the fringed bank with myrtle crowned Her crystal mirror holds, unite their streams. The birds their choir apply ; airs, vernal airs, Breathing the smell of field and grove, attune The trembling leaves, while universal Pan, Knit with the Graces and the Hours, in dance Led on the eternal spring." — Paradise Lost, Book iv. CONIFERiE. !Y X., PHILADELPHIA. The importance of this natural order to the ornamental planter is now admitted bj all who arc familiar with the epecies which it embraces. The Pine, or Fir tribe, as it is commonly termed, includes our most valuable and desirable hardy trees, as well as many of our indigenous forest trees, while an annual addition of several species, reputed to be distinct, is made to our collec- tions, either from the more southern territories of this Union, or the elevated forests of India, Japan, and other foreign countries. We are acquainted with no natural order of plants in which the distinction of families and species is more difficult to detect than in this, at least in young, undeveloped specimens ; wliile we question much if there be one in which the characters are more clearly marked in full grown speci- mens, or such as have attained their natural habit, fall VOL. XXV. — NO. I. 2 18 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTUEE. growth, and normal aspect. What tree is more distinct than the Norway spruce, when fifteen or twenty feet high, with its pendent cones, and yet how various the aspect of young trees in nursery rows ? Wlio ever mistakes tlie identity of a Black spruce when twenty feet high, yet who can with certainty identify the Black from the White in the young plantation ? Even the Scotch and Austrian approximate in early youth, while at mature age each stands distinct, fearless of being confounded with the other. Then, turning to the Arbor vitasas, what a mass of confusion do the varieties present which have been multiplied by the horticulturists of Europe. We can no longer enter any extensive collection and hope to be acquainted with the hundred new names there to be found. Yet still they come, the last addition being Thuja Lohhii, from that fruitful country, California, via London of course. Then we have Biota meldensis, and varieties of Thuja occi- dentalis and orientalis without limit. Of Junipers the list swells so rapidly as to be beyond our means of cultivation, the latest additions being pyriformis, and a weeping Juniper called oblonga pendula, the latter truly distinct and graceful, while perfectly hardy. Our own Red cedar is particularly prolific in varieties, claiming also a pendulous variety which appears distinct and well defined. Of Cupressus we have also many recent additional new names, several of the vari- eties separated, we presume, by scientific hair splitting- : our latest is C. Mac Nabidwa and C. Lawsomawa; for a cypress, C. Lawsonidwa has very much of an arbor-vitse aspect, but as it comes from California we must not be too critical. If you have examined Thuja Lobu, we should like to have your jopinion as to its dissimilarity to Thuja Menziesii. A correct, brief description of the late additions to our coniferous plants, brought up to the present time, would be very useful for reference. We have been waiting for the appearance of some reliable American work on ornamental trees critically correct — but we fear we must wait longer. A list of new Coniferae might, however, be prepared, which would come within the scope of your Magazine, and such a JANUARY. 19 list woTild prove very useful, both to amateurs and the pro- fessional and commereial horticulturist. We are glad that our correspondent has called attention to this important subject, for the utmost confusion prevails in the names of the coniferous plants. Indeed, we may say it is as bad as the nomenclature of our fruits. Young planters, in making a selection, scarcely know what to order when pur- chasing plants. Just now, attention is being directed to this confusion in England, where something less than a hundred, but certainly more than fifty, new pines liave been introduced by M. Roezel, from Mexico, of which only a small proportion, it is supposed, are really distinct. The catalogues of nursery- men enumerate the same tree under several different names : one has it an ^.^bies, another a Picea, and a third a Pinus ; the Cedar of Lebanon is Cedrus Libani of one author, Larix cedrus of another, Pinus cedrus of a third, and AMiies cedrus of a fourth — the last of wliich is adopted by Dr. Lindley in a catalogue of coniferous plants in the Journal of the Horti- cultural Society (Vol. V.) With such confusion existing, it is all-important that some reliable authority should be adopt- ed for the species already well known, and rely upon the newer ones being properly placed when their characters are fully autlienticated. One great cause of this chaos of names lies in the fact that many of the supposed species have been named without an examination of the cones or seeds, and the difficulty of dis- covering distinctions in young plants, while nothing can be more plain than the difference in fully developed trees. But as time can only supply these, the errors, in the meantime, must be perpetuated, and planters subjected to the labor and expense of purchasing and planting duplicate trees. Recently a new work has been published by Mr. George Gordon, formerly superintendent of the ornamental depart- ment in the London Horticultural Society's garden. It is called the Pinetum. Our copy has iiot yet come to hand, but from what we can learn from the English journals, it is gen- erally very correct, and, with the exception of some doubtful kinds, appears to be adopted by the nurserymen as good au- 20 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tliority. If it supplies the want alluded to by our corre- Bpondent, it will be a timely and valuable work. So far as our experience goes, we have found Loudon's Arboretum to be the most correct work upon the Coniferse up to the time it was published ; but as so many new species have been introduced since it was completed, we must look to other sources for information in regard to them. So many of the more recently introduced coniferous plants are tender in the latitude of New England, that we have not given them the attention we otherwise should. The number which have proved entirely liardy is quite limited, compared with the now extended list of species and varieties ; hence we are unable to pronounce upon the difference between them from the small pot-grown specimens which we possess. In reality, to planters north of Pliiladelphia, information in regard to the half-hardy kinds is of little value compared with that in regard to the hardy sorts. Still, correctness is a great object whether hardy or tender, whether for growing in pots or in the pleasure grounds, and it is highly important to make the attempt to obtain it. We shall, therefore, be highly gratified to prepare such a list as our correspondent refers to, and will, with his aid, and the aid of nurserymen and planters throughout the country, endeavor to supply the information needed, and at least com- plete a catalogue which shall be a safe guide to American cultivators in the growth of this truly valuable and highly ornamental class of trees. THE ROSE.— No. 6* BY PROF. C. G. PAGK, M. D., WASHINGTON, D. C. Propagation by Budding. — A diversity of opinion exists as to the value of budded Roses, but the weight of authority is decidedly in favor of the practice of budding, subject of course to a proper selection of stocks and buds and judicious after- management. Indiscriminate budding may well bring the * Continued from Vol. XXIII., p. 264. JANUARY. 21 practice into disrepute, and it should be the care of the rose grower to observe the relative habits of growth between the bud and stock, and practice accordingly. Some contend that as a general rule budded trees and shrubs are not so long- lived as seedlings or as those on their own stocks ; and if there be anything in this opinion it ought to apply with force to the rose, for it does not, when budded, grow over and become continuous and entire with the stock so readily as many other shrubs. If the union of the bud and stock be imperfect there cannot be that integrity of the plant necessary to insure strength and duration, but if the union be perfect I see no reason wliy the plant should not live as long as if it were on its own roots. A seedling plant is in itself a perfect and normal organizar tion, while plants raised by the artificial methods, including, perhaps, suckers and offsets, may be considered as abnormal, and to some extent imperfect ; and probably we should prefer to raise our roses from the seed if practicable, provided we could be sure of the reproduction of the identical or good varieties, and I should much prefer the stock of a seedling upon which to bud, provided it were of a suitable variety. Every cultivator must have noticed the difference between the roots of seedling plants and those raised from layers and cuttings ; those from seedlings having more numerous fibres than the others, and it is not improbable that we may yet find some good seed-bearing stock, superior even to the Manetti, which will reproduce its kind with as much certainty as the Sweetbrier and the Dog rose. One fact seems to be beyond dispute, that a bud rarely does well upon a stock with meagre roots ; and doubtless the cause of the frequent failures of standards and half standards is as often to be found in a deficit of roots as in anything else. Proceeding upon this assumption, seven years since, I set out three strong stocks of Sweetbrier, and, when these had become thoroughly established, they were budded five feet from the ground, two with Marquis Bocella, and one with Giant of Battles. They are now, in the hot climate of Wash- ington, after a severe test of five hard years, fine standards. " Our hot sun" has generally been considered the sole cause of 22 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. the failure of standards, and as this seemed to me an unsatis- factory reason, I tried the following experiment : A six-feet standard was set out, protected for the entire length of the stem or trunk by a wooden frame or box, open on the north side, so that no sun could reach it. It flourished for one sea- son and died the next. The truth of the matter seems to be, that if an active circulation be maintained in the stock by a flourishing head and an abundance of roots the sun cannot injure the stock to the extent supposed ; nevertheless, taking into account all the vicissitudes of heat, cold, droughts and high winds of our climate, low budding is the safer method, and generally the lower tlie better. It is unfortunate that standards, beautiful as they are, have suffered unmerited discredit with amateurs, and the principal cause is to be found in the fact that a large proportion of the standards imported from Europe perish in a few months after being planted out, and very few survive so as to make good heads. These standards, as they come to our market, present huge tall stocks, generally of the dog rose, with a small dis- proportioned head and a few naked roots, free from small fibres, and, added to these defects, the careless exposure of their roots by those engaged in the rose traffic leaves them but a small chance for life when set out. The rose is very sensitive to the exposure of its roots, even when in its most dormant state, and a want of attention to this point is the cause of the failure of imported roses generally. The kind of budding generally preferred for the rose is that known as the T budding. This is expeditious, and succeeds well, but the best practice for the rose is the anchor-budding discovered by myself, and described, several years since, in the Philadelphia Florist. It consists simply in making the cross incision obliquely downwards upon both sides of the vertical incision. Mr. Rivers, some years since, recommend- ed the cross incision to be made obliquely in one direction, thus, I/, but the anchor budding, though apparently a slight departure from the old T and the Rivers' mode, is yet very distinct from either, and involves a mechanical advantage never before recognized in the operation of budding. The incision is represented thus 4/- Every one must have noticed JANUARY. 23 the following difficulty while budding upon the T or the Rivers' method. After the bark is cut, the cut portions tend to keep their natural positions, close against the stem, and in pressing them out so as to admit the shield of the bud the bark is frequently torn. If the wood is left in the shield, (which is not good practice with the rose,) it can be used as a sort of wedge to force its way down between the detached bark and the stock. But where the wood is removed the shield is too tender to be used as the tool or instrument for such work, and is apt to be bruised in the attempt. Bungling, clumsiness and delay are fatal to budding operations ; and to insert a rose bud properly the wood should be removed from the shield, and the cut portions of the bark of the stock should so stand out from the stock at the cross incision as to admit \of the prompt and easy insertion of the bud. When the wood is removed from the shield the union of the bud and stock takes place sooner than when the wood is left in, and the union is more perfect. In some works upon budding, it is recommended that, in removing the wood from the shield it should be stripped out from above downwards, but it will be found better to reverse the order with the rose, and com- mence the removal of the wood from the lower or thicker part of the shield. It is not in place here to instruct in the details of budding, but in regard to the anchor-budding it may be said that the cross incision should be made at an inclination of about 46 degrees to the vertical incision. The peculiar advantage of this oblique incision is in the room which is left between the tips of the detached portions of bark and stock for the free and easy entrance of the shield of the bud, and the ease with which the tips are pressed outwards by the haft of the bud ding knife. A few experiments upon the several modes Ok incision will satisfy one as to the value of this improved mode of cutting the bark, and perhaps it could not be better illus- trated than by supposing the cross cuts to be made obliquely upwards, on both sides, instead of downwards, in which case the obtuse angles of bark made by this cut would render it difficult to enter a bud without at the same time raising the bark with the haft of the budding knife. 24 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. As to the season for budding the rose, it is generally laid down too late by most writers. I have found that the earlier budding is done the better, and the best rule, as to time, is to bud whenever the bark of the stocks will separate readily. Buds of many roses, inserted in the last of May and early in June, will make a growth from three to six feet the same season. Budding may be done through the summer if the weather permit, and as late in the fall as the bark of tlie stock will separate. Buds which push readily, such as Giant of Battles, Lion of Combats, Enfant du Mt. Carmel, and Gloire de Dijon, should not be inserted late, as they are then apt to be winter killed. These kinds, inserted early, will generally make good sized bushes in one season. A few remarks as to the kind of buds to be selected will close this number. To insure healthy strong growing plants, choose buds from vigorous shoots, and not wait for the shoots to bloom, to ripen' or mature the buds, according to common impressions. In early budding, if a bud be taken, even in the tender and green state of the stem, it will grow speedily after insertion, altliough hardly discernible in the axil of the leaf. Buds from near the base of the shoots make strong plants, with abundance of wood, and buds towards the ex- tremity of the shoots, are more prolific of bloom. By observ- ing these facts, in reference to tlie peculiar habits of the rose we are about to propagate, we can regulate to some extent the constitution of the plant, so as to attain a desirable medium of growth and bloom for the future plant. No. 7 will embrace the Hybridization of the Rose. SPIRtEA grandiflora. BY TUE EDITOR. No class of shrubs is of greater value to our gardens than the Spiraeas. With few exceptions, entirely hardy, easily cul- tivated, requiring no particular soil, blooming from May to August, and adapted to the flower-border, the lawn, or the shrubbery, they form the most useful as well as most orna- JANUARY. 25 mental objects which we possess. Our several native kinds are all handsome shrubs, but in addition to them we have a large number of exotic species, numbering in all upwards of twenty. There is not a great variety af colopinthe flowers, but in their style of blooming a very great diversity of form. Some display their flowers in compact spikes, like S. Doug- lasn ; others in loose panicles, like arisefolia ; some in little corymbs, like trilobata ; otliers again, in dense wreaths like prunifolia ; while the S. callosa has broad spreading cymes, unlike all the rest. 1. SPIRiEA GRANDIFLORA. The newly introduced kinds from Cliina and Japan are of remarkable beauty, and being fortunately hardy, have added to the importance of the spiraeas as decorative shrubs. As a single object on the lawn what can be more beautiful than the S. prunifolia, with its profuse garlands of snowy blossoms in May, and in autumn witli its brilliant tinted foliage. We hardly know which to admire most, tlie former or the latter. Reevesii pleno is also a lovely plant, studded as it is witli its umbels of double pure white flowers. Both should be culti- vated in every garden, and with them, trilobata, alpina, cal- losa, and Douorlasu. 26 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. T.I these four kinds we have to add another, which, though not yet fully tried, will probably prove hardy. This is the Spirse^a grandifiora, introduced to England in 1849. It is entirely unlike the others, having white flowers as large as a Philadelphus. Mr. Fortune called it an Amelanchier, but it proves to be a spiraea. In England, in the severe winter of 1853 and 1854, when many very hardy things were killed, the grandiflora stood unharmed. We now annex a figure (fig. 1) and brief description of this beautiful species, as we believe there is another grandi- flora under cultivation, which is only a large variety of our common salicifolia, and our illustration may serve to prevent the dissemination of the error. We have already briefly noticed it in our volume for 1854, (Yol. XX.) and repeat the account then given with some additions. Spiraea grandiflora was found by Mr. Fortune in the North of China. It makes a good sized bush, growing from four to seven feet high. The leaves are thin, alternate, lanceolate, entire and apiculate. The flowers are from two to six on a raceme, white or cream-colored, with a serrated petaloid calyx, and a great fleshy green disc, in the centre of which stand five free carpets. Some of the flowers are male. It blossoms in June. Our engraving is only half the natural size of the flowers. The other new kinds are Candida, eximia, and rup^stris, but whether hardy or tender, we cannot state until after the experience of the present winter. ^ntual Bt^ticts, Chrysanthhwums. — The following list of 30 varieties may be useful to such of our readers as are about to form a collection of this favorite autum- nal flower. They are the best of the respective colors under which they are placed, and as this is a good time to purchase plants for blooming next season, no time should be lost in obtaining them: — POMPONES. mite. Yellow. Purple. Cede Nulli Berrol. Hel6ne. Bijou d'Horticulture. Rose. Broion. Durufflet. Bob. JANUARY. 27 While. Queen of England Defiance Elise Pele Vesta. Yellow. Annie Salter Chevalier Dumaefe LARGE FLOWERED KINDS Yellow (continued.) Plntus Temple of Solomon. Rose. Phidias (new) Versailles Defiance Princesse Marie Norfolk Rival. Purple. Grind Napoleon Bixio Stafford Arigena. Brown or Red. Augustus Mie Mount Etna. White. Reine des Anemones Madame Sentir. ANEMONE FLOWERED. Yellow. Golden Drop. Rose. Margueridette. Purple. Mrs. Gush. Brown. Robert le Diable. It may, perhaps, be useful to add that the majority of the large and beau- tiful grown plants, which have been so successfully exhibited this season, were struck from suckers or cuttings put in in November last year, and kept in a cold frame through the winter, two or three in a 5-inch pot. In February they were potted singly into the same sized pots, pinching off the points, and kept growing steadily during the spring months ; plenty of air is given them on fine days, and they are kept well watered in bright weather- They are shifted into larger pots as they require it. Good drainage and rich sandy loam suits them best. Large varieties for cut blooms are not stopped, but are allowed to run up, removing all laterals as soon as they are half an inch in length. No plant is permitted to produce more than from three to five blooms ; and to have the latter large and finely developed, weak liquid manure must be liberally supplied while the plants are in active growth. By these means flowers may be obtained measuring not less than 6 inches in diameter. — {Gard. Chron., 1858, p. 879.) Pn$s:ttj)usctts |)oi1itii[tuntI Societg. Saturday, JVov. 6, 1858, — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to-day — the President in the chair. [At the meeting, October 2d, we omitted to state that the President, J. L. Russell, S. Walker, J. S. Cabot, and C. M. Hovey were chosen a com- mittee to take into consideration the present mode of distribution of seeds from the Patent office, and on the 23d Prof. Russell submitted his report.] A committee of seven was chosen to consider the propriety of disposing of the Society's property, and purchasing more commodious buildings. The President was appointed chairman. 28 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. J. W. Manning, Reading ; G. W. Piorce, Maiden ; G. G. Hubbard, Cam- bridge; H. P. Chandler, Milton ; Catherine Hancock, George W. Rice, and E. S. Southard, Roxbury, were elected members. A communication was read from Professor Horsford on the manufacture of cider. Adjourned to Dec. 4th. Dec. 4. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. The committee appointed to confer with a committee of Mount Auburn Cemetery, in reference to the settlement of matters of interest between the two corporations, made a report, which was unanimously accepted. [This important report we shall publish in full in a future number.] M. P. Wilder, Prof. Jenks, C. M. Hovey, and l!J. S. Rand, Jr. were ap- pointed a committee to petition the Legislature to publish a new edition of Dr. Harris's Treatise on Insects, with engravings, G. Brewer, F. L. Lee, R. H. Weld, J. R. Brewer, Giles Lodge, G. M. Dexter, W. Heustis, and Milton Andros were elected members. Adjourned to Dec. 11th. Dec. 1 1. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. The Indenture of settlement with the Mount Auburn Cemetery was read by E. S. Rand, one of the committee. The Committee on Flowers submitted their annual report. Adjourned to Dec •^4th. Dec. 24. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. Messrs. Stickney, M. P. Wilder, and Capt. Austin were appointed a committee to settle with Mount Auburn. The Committees on Fruits, Gardens, and Vegetables submitted their reports. The committee to take into consideration the preservation of fruits was discharged. Meeting dissolved. The reports of the committees are so long that we must refer to the So- ciety's Proceedings, which will soon be published, except that of tlie Fruit Committee, which we have the pleasure, through the courtesy of the So- ciety, of presenting to our readers : — REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FRUITS For the Year 1858. BY HON. J. S. CABOT, CHAIRMAN. The Standing Committee on Fruits submit to the Society the following as their Report for the year 1858 : — The characteristic features of the commencement and earlier part of the year that is now closing were such as to induce the hope and expectation of a f\ivorable season for the fruit culturist. A winter of unusual mildnesa had been followed by a spring, that, for its two first months, was of an equally favorable character — both free from those violent storms and great JANUARY. 29 nlternations from moderate or warm weather to extreme cold, that so often occur at this season. This continuance of propitious weather gave rise to an opinion, not unreasonable, that trees and phints had passed through this season of trial uninjured, and hence arose the apparently Avell-j^rounded expectation of a year favorable to the growers of fruit — an expectation not destined to a subsequent full realization. With the last month of spring commenced an inclement period, that waa prolonged, almost without intermission, far into the succeeding — an almost constant succession of rain storms, and cold, dull weather, with frosts of almost killing severity on the 2yth and 30th of May. So introduced, the summer that followed was of a similar character: its prevailing features were much dull, cool weather, with a frequent occurrence of rains of almost tropical violence, and the absence of scarcely any hot days. Some of these causes — storms and late fiosts, a great quantity of rain, and the absence of heat — or all combined, has exercised a prejudicial influence upon some speciea of fruits; and the results of this the third year in succession of extreme wet, contrasted with those of the three years of severe drought that immediately preceded, seems to justify the opinion, that, while an excess of either is undesirable, a very dry season is, in this climate, less injurious to most crops than one of excessive rain. As a compensation for an unpropitious summer, the autumn of the present year has been serene, warm, and fine, far beyond what is usual, with one exception — on the lOth of September — without any severe gales, and with- out a killing frost until November 11th, so that dahlias and other late flowers were blooming in the gardens down to thit period, still fresh and uninjured. Although too late to have much influence upon the later fruits, the effects of the fine weather of the autumn upon other crops has been highly favorable, bringing to maturity and ripening for the harvest some that at one period seemed almost beyond a reasonable hope. As a proof of the peculiar mildness of the fall, it may be mentioned that some plants of the Jenny Lind strawberry were in full bloom on the 7th of November, an event not often noticed. The last annual exhibition was held in the Hall of the Society. It was the expectation, when this Hall was built, that it would be sufficient for this purpose, and such was for a few years found to be the case ; but lat- terly, the great increase in the specimens oflTered rendered a, large tent, or the largest hall to be obtained in the city, necessary for the purposes of the annual exhibition. The limited space afforded by the Hall of the Society required, this year, the adoption of rules for conducting the exhibition different from those that have usually regulated it, and these excluded from the table all specimens of fruit but such as were offered in competition for the prizes — except that contributors were allowed to place there a limited number, especially of such as were new or rare, for exhibition only. No doubt this exclusion of ordinary specimens, and of indifferent vari- eties, by which the exhibitions have sometimes been swelled, tend ma- terially to increase the beauty of an exhibition, yet is not fiee from objec- 80 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. tions. Many, it is to be presumed, visit the exhibitions of the Society not merely to gratify the eye and to view specimens of superior excellence, but also to study the qualities of the different varieties of fruit, so far as that can be done by a cursory examination, especially of such as are new or rare, to make themselves familiar with their form and appearance. Now to this class it is as important that varieties of poor qualities should be exhibited as those that are superior : for to them it is desirable to know what to avoid, as well as what to seek. The competition for the prizes offered by the Society has been as active the past year as has been heretofore cu:5tomary, and the efforts of cultivators has resulted in placing upon the tables specimens of fruit equalling in beauty and quality those of the most favorable seasons. The raising of forced fruits seems to be more and more becoming an object of interest to cultivators: now competitors present themselves for this class of prizes offered by the Society, and, by the displays in this branch of horticulture, the exiiibiiions in the earlier part of the year, that would be otherwise devoid of fruit, are rendered attractive. The raising of forced fruits exercises the skill of the horticulturist in one of the highest departments of his profession, and his success here, where all is artificial, becomes a complete triumph over nature — its successful practice requiring not only great skill, but also no small amount of scientific attainment, helps to elevate the character of the arts, and for this reason, if no other, is worthy the continued encouragement of the Society. The forced fruits exhibited have consisted >t strawberries, grapes, peaches, cherries, nectarines, &c. Strawberries were shown in consider- able quantity on April 3d — a few berries having been placed on the table on March 6th ; grapes on April 3d ; peaches on May 8th, and cherries and nectarines on the l.'jth of that month. Grapes and peaches are the forced fruits principilly cultivated, and the specimens shown this year of each have been remarkable for size and beauty. One bunch of Cannon Hall Muscat grapes weighed four pounds, eleven of the berries weighing six ounces, and some of the peaches were each ten and five eighths inches in circumference, and weighed ten ounces ; indeed, all the different kinds testi- fied to the scientific attainments and practical skill of their producers. The nectarine is not a favorite fruit, and in quality does not correspond to its appearance, the different varieties, with the exception of the Stanwick, being deficient in sweetness and flavor. The grapes exhibited have consisted of the varieties usually cultivated in the grapehouses in this vicinity — the only novelty now recollected being a round purple grape, with both bunch and berries of a good size, and covered with a fine bloom, called Lady Downes, said to keep well on the vines for four or five months, and on that account to be valuable. Notwithstanding that the season has seemed unfavorable to some species of fruit, particularly the pear, to others it has appeared propitious. Straw- berries, currants, cherries, as well as some others, were in more than usual abundance, and of excellent quality. Such statements and observations as appear appropriate to and required by the occasion, with respect to the JANUARY. 31 different species, will now be offered, taking the different kinds somewhat in their order of ripening. STRAWBERRIES. The first strawberries of the season, grown in the open air, were a box of Early Virginias, shown on the 12th of June ; the exhibitor stating that he picked ripe berries from his vines on the 6th; and the second was a box of a new seedling, called Page's seedling, exhibited on June liJth. Page's eeedling is a handsome strawberry, of good size, conical form, and dark color. It is good flavored, but seemed rather soft in the flesh. As it is so early a variety, it may prove desirable. The principal exhibition of strawberries for the season was on the 3d of July, on which day there Avas a magnificent display of this fruit, em- bracing, with the older sorts, many new or recently introduced varieties. These last, shown in considerable quantity, being of various colors, from nearly white to very dark red, and many of them extra large in size, con- stituted an exceedingly attnictive exhibition. Among the newer varieties may be mentioned Leopold, a very large crimson strawberry, of a coxcomb shape ; Marquise La Tour Mauburg, large, dark colored ; Trollope's Victoria, also large and fine, but of a cnlor rather too pale ; River's seedling Eliza, a large, coxcomb-shaped crimson berry; Blake's Incomparable, a crimson; and Adair, a good sized scarlet variety. As no opportunity was afforded the Committee to test, in a satisfactory manner, the different varieties, the expression of any opinion with respect to their flavor is purposely withheld, as such, not carefully and deliberately formed, might give an erroneous impression. It may not be amiss, how- ever, to say, that scarcely any of the foreign varieties of the strawberry have continued, for any long period, to give satisfactory results. They seem more tender than the American varieties, more liable to be burnt by the sun in summer, and injured by the cold in winter ; besides that, they are all, or nearly all, staminate or perfect in their flowers, and unless more care and attention is paid than jan usually be bestowed on their cultivation, they become unproductive. The great size of their berries, their beauty and flavor, may render some of the foreign varieties desirable for the gar- den of the amateur, but it is believed that they will in no case be found adapted to the purposes of those who desire to produce this fruit on an extended scale ; and while such results as are now had can be obtained from the cultivation of American varieties, it is hardly worth while to resort to foreign sources for any additional supply. Of the long established and well known favorite sorts of this fruit, no remarks are necessary, unless it be to say that the Jenny Lind, having now been subjected to the test of a somewhat extended and general cultivation, seems to justify the encomiums that were bestowed on it at its first appear- ance. It was then said that it seemed to be an improvement on the Virginia Scarlet, to which it bore a resemblance, and was well adapted to be a fer- tilizer to some of the pistillate sorts — a belief now confirmed by subsequent experience. 32 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. CHERRIES. Cherries were exhibited for the first time on July 3(1, and for the second time, in considerable variety, on the 10th of that month; many of those then shown being thoroughly ripe, well grown, and fine in appearance. The varieties offered consisted of those already often described and well known, and no statements respecting them are now called for. With the exception of two seedling Muziird varieties, both of which seemed worthy of commendation, no new cherry has this year been brought to the notice of your Committee. The cultivation of the cherry, if it is not gradually diminishing, certainly does not appear to be extending. It is a delicious fruit, but the ravages of birds and insects, its liability to crack open and immediately decay, when rain occurs at a particular period of its ripening, renders it a very precarious crop ; and, what is still worse, the tree seems to be becoming tender, and so liable to disease as sometimes to excite an apprehension that, like the plum, its cultivation may be nearly abandoned. The past eeason Avas, more than is usual, favorable to this fruit. RASPBERRIES. The only new raspberry placed before your Committee this year was a new White one from Samuel Walker. The berries were of good size, somewhat resembling, in their general appearance, the White Antwerp. Mr. W. stated that it was not hardy. The varieties of the raspberry most generally cultivated in this vicinity continue to be the Knevet's Giant and the Franconia; the Catawissa, and some of the French ever-bearing sorts, being also occasionally grown. The Fastolf, besides that it is more tender, is too soft to bear carriage well, and adheres too closely to the stem. The Hudson River Red Antwerp, the favorite kind in New York, does not appear to have been ever very generally tried here ; and, while the varieties now generally cultivated continue to be as satisfactory as at present, it is scarcely worth while to do so. CURRANTS. For a long time the Red and While Dutch were the only currants culti- vated, and seedlings raised from them, with a view to improvement, did not seem essentially to vary in character from their progenitors. Some years since, May's Victoria was produced, and it was at the time expected that it would prove to be a decided improvement. It has not, however, answered the expectations that were formed, for, except that tiie bunches are much longer, it does not exhibit any superiority. Subsequently, the Red and White Gondoin and Fertile de Paillau were originated, and these, particu- larly the two first, proved to be an improvement on the old red and white varieties. Within the last year or two, several new varieties of foreign origin have been introduced, that it now seems probable will, from their superiority, supersede the old sorts. Among such are the Fertile d' Angers, La Caucasc, La Versaillaise, Macrocarpa, the Champagne, Hatif de Bertin, and Blanc Transparente, though this last may prove to be the same as tho White grape. JANUARY. 33 Several of these varieties have been exhibited the past year in consider- able quantities, and, by their beauty and the great size of both bunches and berries, attracted much attention. Some berries of the Versaillaise were found, on measuring them, to be two inches in circumference. Several of these new currants are fully equal in size to the cherry, a variety too acid for the dessert, and at the same time are sweeter and richer than the old kinds. Among those that may be safely, it is believed, recommended, are the three first named in the above list. BLACKBERRIES. The exhibition of blackberries the past year has been confined to the Dorchester and the Lawton, or New Rochelle ; indeed, these are the only ones at present known that are worthy of cultivation. The show of this fruit the past year was very fine, and the premiums offered by the Society excited a spirited competition. In size and beauty the berries of both vari- eties that were exhibited were probably never surpassed. In one instance, thirty-two berries of the Lawton entirely covered the top of the box in which this fruit is usually shown, and twenty five of the berries weighed six and one sixteenth ounces ; while twenty-five berries of the Dorchester weighed five and eleven sixteenths ounces. Still larger berries of the Dorchester were, however, subsequently exhibited, though not weighed. Cultivators in this vicinity esteem the Dorchester decidedly superior to the Lawton: it is much sweeter, and therefore more generally acceptable; be- sides, that while the Dorchester, upon being gathered, retains its deep lus- trous black color, the Lawton soon becomes of a deep reddish brown or bronze color, and therefore less saleable. Notwithstanding this, the Law- ton, when thoroughly ripe, is, though rather acid, a rich, high flavored berry, and it is thought has hardly had justice done to it. It bears to the Dor- chester a relation somewhat similar to that borne by the fruit of the common trailing bramble to the high bush blackberry, — both are valuable varieties, and leave scarcely anything further to be desired in this species of fruit. PEACHES. The supply of peaches the past year has been more abundant than usual, and the quality good. The display at some of the Exhibitions of the Society was highly creditable to the contributors. The only new varieties, brought to the notice of the Committee, were two seedlings, one from Mr. Richards of Dedham, shown for the first time, and the other from Mr. Dana of Rox- bury ; both were late peaches of the yellow fleshed sorts, juicy, sweet, and well flavored. They both seemed to be valuable, not only for their quality, but for being late, after others had generally gone, and therefore worthy of propagation, and of being disseminated. PLUMS. Of plums there is little to be said. Indeed, the cultivation of this fruit is now much neglected, and bids fair to be abandoned, unless a remedy shall be VOL. XXV. — NO. I. 3 34 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. found for the disease, the black wart, to which it is so subject; for where it has not been given up, in most instances the trees are so infested with it that they have become unsightly and useless cumberers of the ground. The cause of this excrescence is not fully understood, and, until it is, no remedy can be expected. It is not new, having prevailed, occasionally, at least, and with a greater or less degree of virulence, for half a century or more. For the last few years its ravages have been peculiarly violent. Perhaps, like some diseases that afflict the human frame, its virulence may hereafter abate. GRAPES. During the last few years no fruit, unless it be the pear, has excited so much interest as the grape ; and confident expectation has been indulged that from seedlings, now being extensively raised, some new varieties would be produced, that, free from the defects of the native grape, should be of fine quality, hardy, and sufficiently early to attain maturity under ordinary circumstances in the open air in Massachusetts. Although this expecta- tion has not as yet been fully realized, still, this is no cause for discourage- ment, especially in view of what has already been obtained in the Diana and Delaware, both a near approach to the requirements of cultivators. The great desideratum seems to be a grape of good size, suited to the des- sert, that shall perfectly ripen its fruit during our short summer, that which some varieties of those not yet fully tested may prove to be. There are already good grapes, if they could be produced perfectly ripe, as the Isa- bella, Catawba, &c. Indeed both these sorts, when thoroughly ripened, leave, so far as quality is concerned, but little more to be desired ; but it is to be questioned, whether even the first, certainly not the last, ever, unless under the most exceptional circumstances, thoroughly ripens its fruit in the open air in New England. Should this opinion seem rash or ill-founded, let but a comparison be made between these varieties, when grown at the South, or here in a grape-house, perfectly ripe, and the ripest and best specimens that can be obtained grown in the open air, and the inferiority of the latter will be at once manifest. And this same remark, it is believed, is also applicable to the Concord, a somewhat earlier variety than the Isabel- la, but which it is thought will prove to be better adapted to a more south- ern latitude than to this, where it originated. The Hartford Prolific has lately received warm commendations from some sources, and seems to an- swer this requirement of earliness ; ripe grapes, of this sort, grown in Hartford, having been tested this year on the 14th September ; but its ear- liness is its chief recommendation; it is tolerably sweet, but is not wholly free from the peculiar flavor, as well as the hard pulp of the native varie- ties, and therefore hardly suited to the table. Besides that there is this ob- jection to it, the berries, when ripe, fall from the vine at a slight touch. Of some of the more recently introduced varieties there has not yet been a sufficient trial here to authorize the formation of any very decided opinion concerning them. High expectations have been formed of some of them ; expectations that it is earnestly hoped may be realized. The Rebecca is JANUARY. 35 one that, at the first exhibitions of its fruit, was universally commended, but, from present indications, it is feared that it will be found to be tender, and not suited to this climate, particularly as the appearance of the vine indicates that it is a seedling from some foreign variety. It is, how- ever, too soon to express a decided opinion respecting it, particularly as since its introduction the seasons have been unfavorable. The Logan is another new grape that has been brought prominently before the public, mainly through the agency of Messrs. A. Thompson and G. W. Campbell of Delaware, Ohio. It has not fruited here, but specimens from Ohio, tasted, hardly met the expectations that had been formed from the repre- sentations of its quality. Under the date of September 16, 1858, Mr. Campbell writes : " This is the second year of bearing with the Logan, and I think you will find it to improve upon acquaintance. It endured last winter, which was peculiarly hard upon vegetation, uninjured, although in the same vicinity the Catawba, Isabella, Diana, and Clinton, were killed to the ground. Its habit of growth is like the Catawba, Isabella, and grapes of that class, but its leaf is different and distinct. It is easy of propagation, striking readily from layers, cuttings, or eyes." Of all the grapes recently introduced, there is none, that for size, beauty, and flavor, is superior to the Union Village, if there is any that equal it, unless one, to be presently noticed, shall hereafter prove an exception. The only misgiving that is felt with respect to this variety is, that it may not be sufficiently early to arrive at perfect maturity when raised in the open air ; it is, however, about eight days earlier than the Isabella. This grape has only been fruited in this vicinity by Mr. E. A. Brackett of Winchester, if, indeed, any one here but Mr. Brackett, and those who have received vines from him, have the true variety, as vines received from Ohio, two years since, with every guarantee to their correctness that could be de- sired, have not proved to be so. This grape has been exhibited by Mr. Brackett for the past four years, and the favorable opinion of its quality entertained by those who tasted of it has been before expressed. It was shown this year on October 2d, and pronounced very good by the Commit- tee ; in consequence, however, of the mildew, and the unfavorable character of the season, Mr. Brackett did not consider these specimens a fair criterion of the quality of the variety. The Union Village was received by Mr. Brackett from Mr. Longworth of Cincinnati, who, it is said, obtained it from a Shaker Community at Union Village, Ohio, whence its name, and where it has been presumed to have originated. With respect to this there may be some doubt ; as the original vine cannot now be found there, perhaps it was sent to Mr. Longworth. With the information upon this subject at present possessed, if called upon to recommend grapes, that, taking all circumstances into the account, may be considered as best adapted to out-door cultivation in Massachu- setts, but little hesitation would be felt in naming the Diana and the Dela- ware. The Diana is too well known to call for any remarks concerning it, and with the Delaware, cultivators are somewhat acquainted as, although of recent introduction here, various opportunities for testing its qualities 36 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. have been afforded. The Delaware has been received from Delaware, Ohio, but is probably a native of one of the Middle States. It is, although until recently but little known, not a new grape, for if statements of in every way a reliable character can be depended on, the Delaware was, more than thirty years ago, in the possession of Mr. Prevost of New Jersey. Mr. Campbell of Ohio writes that he this year " picked ripe specimens from a fair southern exposure on the 15th of August." There have been some new Grapes exhibited the past season ; among them a new seedling from J. F. Allen, As, through some accident or misunderstanding, this grape was not tried by the Committee, the following description of it from Mr. Allen is given : " A new Seedling grape, hybrid from Isabella and European, early and fine, color black, grown under glass, but not forced. I have vines of it in the open air, and it is as hardy as the Isabella." On September 1 1th, Mr. James Hill exhibited a large purple native grape, called Jenney's Seedling ; it was stated that it did not mil- dew, and was sometime ripe by August 24, but its quality was not such as, in the opinion of the Committee, to entitle it to commendation. It has been said above, that it was believed that the Union Village had .no superior unless with one exception. The exception intended was a aiew seedling, raised from it by Mr. Brackett ; it fruited this year for the first time, with berries larger than those of the Union Village, that were pronounced by those who tasted them to be of superior flavor. It is be- lieved to be a grape of great promise. Information has been received of a new grape, of an amber color, a chance seedling, on Long Island, that the owner, Mmself every way qualified to judge, believes will take its plac^ as the best of American grapes. As nothing more is known of it, this allusion to it is all that is deemed justifiable. Although skilful cultivators, like Messrs. Grant and Cutter, and they too probably favored with locations peculiarly adapted to the purpose, have exhibited, the past season, hardy grapes in as good condition as usual, yet the crop may be considered a failure. The mildew has been exceedingly destructive, and the only variety, so far as was noticed, that escaped its attacks was the Clinton. This disease first manifested itself on August 5, and after that its ravages were rapid and fatal. While, during the last two years, the mildew has been in this country very destructive, in France the vines have, in a great degree, been free from the Oidium supposed to be identical with it. Whether this exemption in the latter country has been owing to the very general and free application of sulphur there prac- tised, or to other causes, is not known ; but as this has been considered a remedy for the evil, perhaps the experiment is worth repeating in this country. At the Annual and subsequent Exhibitions, Isabella grapes, far beyond the usual size, were exhibited, this increase in size having been produced by girdling the vines. The Committee had an opportunity of testing the effects of girdling by a comparison between grapes from a vine so treated and from one that had not been, and, in their opinion, this practice is inju- rious to the quality of the fruit. Mr. G. B. Cutter, who has practised it, JANUARY. 37 gives it as his opinion, " that it increases the size of the grapes but does not hasten its maturity, and injures the quality." As the berries are in- creased in size by this process, it may be that it requires a longer period to bring them to equal maturity with those that have not been so treated, and when the season permits, if those that are on girdled vines are permitted to remain ungathered several days longer, they may become equal in quality to those that are borne by vines in their natural condition. Since the preceding remarks in relation to the grape were written, the following letter has been received, and as it gives the opinions of a most intelligent and skilful cultivator, bearing upon this subject, permission has been obtained to hereunto append it. Upon perusal it will be found to correspond with the views herein before expressed. In making their award of premiums the Committee felt that a preference was to be given, when the quality of the specimens exhibited would justify it, to well-known and established varieties, rather than to those of more recent origin, because the latter not being thoroughly tested, though promising- to be superior, it was thought that to act with caution would be the part of wisdom : — To J. S. Cabot, Chairman of Fruit Committee of Massachusetts Honicullural Society — Dear Sir — In reply to your inquiry I hardly need say to you, that my crop of grapes has been almost an entire failure this season ; the Delaware and Union Village have alone yielded me a fair return for my labor. The great amount of rain that fell during the months of August and September may serve to remind the cultivator of the importance of a dry, calcareous or sandy soil for the vine. In such a location drought may be overcome by mulching, while in a fat, heavy loam excessive moisture will always prove disastrous to both fruit and vine. Of the many varieties that I cultivate none gives me so much satisfaction as the Delaware. It ripens from the 1st to the 10th of September, is per- fectly hardy, and yields an abundance of most delicious fruit. Considering all its qualities I have no hesitation in placing it at the head of American grapes. Of the Union Village, I have heretofore spoken. It continues to main- tain its good character. I am pleased to find that Dr. Grant, who fruited this vine about the same time as myself, coincides with me in my opinion of it. It is at least a week earlier than the Isabella. The Rebecca has not proved so hardy as I had hoped. It has winter- killed badly the past two years. I am informed that the original vine has always been covered during the winter. Those who have this variety will do well to lay them down, as the delicious character of the fruit v,fill well pay for any such extra attention. Some excitement has been created, this season, by the exhibition of fruit grown upon girdled vines. The practice is not new ; writers as far back as Pliny speak of it as common among the vine dressers of those times. It has been in use in France since 1790, the object being to prevent blight. The operation is performed on the old wood from six to eight days before 38 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTUEE. blossoming. Girdling vines, when the fruit is about the size of a small pea, will cause the berries to swell a third larger than they otherwise would have done, but does not cause them to ripen any earlier. The culture of the vine is daily claiming more and more attention, and it is to be hoped that we shall have no more such worthless humbugs as Char- ter Oak, Globe Seedling, Mammoth Seedling, Northern Muscadine, Cana- dian Chief, Massachusetts White, and, I had almost said, Hartford Prolific ; but I am reminded that the Pomological Society have placed it on the list among the " promising," and that too in such company as the Delaware, Union Village and Rebecca, Promising for what ? certainly not as a table grape ! Downing describes it — Flesh sweet, moderately juicy, with con- siderable toughness and acidity in its pulp, and with a good deal of native perfume, ripening ten days before the Isabella. He might have added, that the berries drop from the stem, when ripe, with the most careful handling ; while the quality of the fruit is greatly inferior to the Concord. Its only merit is its earliness, and in this the Delaware is several days ahead of it. After several years' experience with all the varieties worth growing, I can with the greatest confidence recommend the Diana and the Delaware for general cultivation ; and that for special or garden culture, tire Union Village will be found very desirable. Yours truly, Winchester, Mass., JVov. 13, 1858. E. A. Brackett. GOOSEBERRIES. Gooseberries have been exhibited in the usual quantity, of good quality, and in more than the usual variety the past season. A new seedling, from Houghton's seedling, was exhibited by Mr. Benj. C. Mattingly ; it was a rather small yellow berry, but sweet, pleasant-flavored and good. The gooseberry is not held in very high estimation in this country, and the cli- mate does not seem well adapted to it. APPLE. To the Northern States there is no fruit crop so important as that of the apple. Coextensive in its duration, by some of its varieties, with that of the year, it is a healthful luxury ; enters into consumption as an article of food for both man and animals ; is valuable to manufacture into cider, and also enters into the domestic exports of the country as an article of mer- chandise. Its product, then, becomes a matter of interest. The past year this has been exceedingly variable — in some sections of the country a total failure; in others, as in this vicinity, abundant. At the exhibitions of the Society it has been shown by numerous contributors in great variety and of good quality, some of the varieties being new, or such as had not been be- fore noticed. Among these may be named the Thomas, a sweet apple, somewhat resembling in appearance the Ladies' Sweet, a fine fruit, exhib- ited perfectly sound as late as April ; and a very handsome apple of medium size, shown on the last of May, said to keep until July; it was unnamed, but was thought to be the MacCartney, so called from the name of its grower. JANUAEY. 39 At some of the weekly exhibitions there was a fine display of apples , among them, in October, the following that had not been before noticed : the Boxford, a large yellow apple, nearly covered with stripes and blotches of red, remarkably tender and very pleasant flavor; and the Polliard, prob- ably a local name. This last was more beautiful th^n the Maiden's Blush, that it resembled in its color, with a very white flesh of a very agreeable subacid flavor. Both these varieties made a very favorable impression. . At the annual exhibition the display of apples was very fine, and there were some varieties of recent origin or of late introduction ; as the Ohio Nonpareil, a yellow apple, with red in the sun, of medium size, now, it is supposed, raised for the first time in this vicinity. This apple is held in high estimation in Ohio, but, so far as can be judged from a single trial, not too much so. It has been pronounced by some, whose opinions are usually deemed authority, to be identical with the Cogswell, but it is believed that this opinion has been expressed under some misapprehension with respect to the varieties, and that they are not the same, the two varieties diflTering, it is said, in both wood and leaf. The John's Sweet, a New Hampshire apple of good size, mostly covered with stripes and blotches of red, a pro- fuse bearer, and the Ledge, now fruited for the first time in this vicinity, were also upon the tables. The Ledge, when it was first exhibited some ten years since from Portsmouth, attracted much observation, and was com- mended by the then Fruit Committee as promising to be of great value as a late-keeping sweet variety. Grafts then obtained seem to be coming into bearing, and it is to be hoped that it will justify the encomiums that have been bestowed on it. Smith's Cider was also exhibited for the first time ; the specimens were of medium size, of yellow color, with blotches and stripes of red. This is a Pennsylvania apple, and is extensively cultivated in the Middle States and at the West. It may be that it is peculiarly valuable as a cider apple, but if, by that affix, it is intended to designate a fruit valuable to manufac- ture into cider only, it is certainly a misnomer, for it is a fine table fruit. It is a most abundant bearer and of vigorous growth. These four last-named varieties were exhibited by Dr. Wight, who has paid great attention to the cultivation of the apple, and are strongly recom- mended by him as well worthy the notice of growers of this fruit. Speci- mens of the Washington, which excited so much interest at its first exhibi- tion three years since, were also shown by him, and also by Messrs. Hub- bard, Foster and Evers, and the Northern Spy and Bottle Greening from the garden of the late Capt. Jjovett. PEARS. Second in importance only to the apple, to which in its duration by the successive ripening of its varieties, and by the different uses to which it is applicable, it bears some resemblance, the pear has sometimes been consid- ered the fruit of Massachusetts, so much has it absorbed the attention of her cultivators. It is a delicious fruit and Avorthy of the attention it has re- ceived. The great interest felt has manifested itself especially by causing 40 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. the introduction into this vicinity of ahnost all the varieties of the pear, both from distant parts of our own country as well as from Europe, nearly as soon as such were produced or made known, and there are here collec- tions that, for the number of varieties contained therein, are not surpassed by any others, even if they are equalled. The value of these great collec- tions, such as are those of Col. Wilder and the Messrs. Hovey, cannot be over-estimated. The true qualities of many of the varieties and their adap- tation or non-adaptation to cultivation here, can only be ascertained by trial ; hence these great collections become, as it were, a school where the qualifications of the different sorts for this purpose are carefully studied, and whence reliable information respecting them are disseminated and taught. The past season has not been propitious to the pear ; its earlier prognos- tics were favorable, but its subsequent course did not tend to their fulfilment ; at least later in the year the injurious effects of some causes became plainly manifested. These untoward eflfects were exhibited in a diminution of the crop, though this was more striking in some sections of this vicinity than in others, in the country east of Boston more than to the south and west of that city ; in causing many trees to shed their leaves prematurely while their fruit was yet immature ; and in the cracking and blighting of many more varieties than is usual. Yet, notwithstanding these unfavorable cir- cumstances, in very many instances specimens exhibited have never been surpassed in size and beauty, showing an improvement in cultivation, (in this trenching and underdraining are considered essential elements,) and an increase of knowledge that can overcome the evil consequences of an un- toward season. It would be a pleasant task to specify these instances of superiority, but to do so would be but to enumerate the contributions of the greater part of the exhibitors, and is therefore omitted- So great has been this superiority and so nearly equal in quality has been in many cases the specimens exhib- ited, that in their awards of prizes, especially for autumn and winter pears, the Committee have labored under great embarrassment ; and although no premium was awarded that was not richly merited, yet it may be that, from this circumstance, their attempts in every case to do equal and exact jus- tice may not receive universal approbation. There have been some new pears and some of recent introduction exhib- ited the past year; of such a portion at least seem to call for more than this passing notice. Among them the following may be specified : — A seedling pear, unnamed, from Mr. Van de Venter of New Jersey, in form like the Rostiezer, melting, juicy, and tolerably good, but rather as- tringent. Shown July 31st. A pear from Dr. Wight, called Medfield Beauty, supposed to be a seed- ling, rather small, but tender, sweet and well flavored ; said to be earlier than the Madeleine, though not exhibited until Aug. 7. A seedling pear exhibited by Mr. Burr, on 23d October, above a medium in size, and very handsome ; flesh fine grained, melting, juicy, of a rather spirited, subacid flavor — promises to be valuable. Tree grows and bears well. JANUARY. 41 Mr. Dana exhibited another of his seedlings, a large pyriform pear, not very melting, but of a sweet, pleasant flavor; and Mr. Scott, of Brighton, a russet pear, of medium size, obovate form, that was tender, juicy, and of rather pleasant flavor — a seedling also of his raising. Alexandrina, a new pear, was introduced by Messrs. Hovey, resembling somewhat in form and appearance the Fondante de Noel, a very handsome fruit of medium size, melting, juicy, sweet and pleasant, though of not very decided flavor. Ripe in October. Madame Eliza, though it has before fruited, was exhibited, it is believed, this year for the first time by Col, Wilder. It is a large pear, of pyriform shape, green color, melting and juicy, with somewhat of the rose flavor. Neuf Maison, from Mr. Walker. There has been some confusion about this variety, it having, so far as is known, proved heretofore, upon fruiting, to be synonymous with some other. This was a smooth, green pear, of me- dium size, with a large, straight stem and an open calyx in a shoal basin, presumed to be correct. It was not tasted, but Mr. W. says it is of good quality. Beurre Antoinette, now first exhibited, is of medium size, with a yellow- ish green skin, long stem, flesh greenish white, tender, juicy, and of very pleasant flavor. Ripe middle of October. Bergamotte Gaudry, a very pleasant, melting, juicy fruit, of a slight ber- gamotte flavor, has some stony concretions about the seeds ; of medium size; color yellow, but nearly covered with stripes and blotches of russet. Doyenne du Comice, not new, but worthy of notice, as it proves to be a very melting, juicy, fine pear, that is believed to be worthy of an extended cultivation. It is peculiarly well adapted to the quince stock. Beurre Mauxion, of medium size, short stout stem, of a russet color, thin skin, melting, juicy, of a spirited pleasant flavor. Season early in October. Souvenir d'Esperin is a long pear, above a medium in size, with a thin yellow skin nearly covered with russet ; flesh, melting, juicy, of a pleasant subacid flavor, but rather lacked sweetness and richness. At one of the weekly exhibitions of the Society, that of October 23, a dish of the Beurr6 B ichelier was exhibited by Mr. H. Curtis. These spe- cimens were large, perfectly fair and smooth, and very handsome, and are thought deserving of mention, because the fruit of this variety is generally knotted or warty, as showing what may be expected of it when in skilful hands or a suitable situation. De Tongres. As considerable interest has been excited respecting this pear, it may not be amiss to. state, as a matter of record, that though not exhibited it has fruited the past year and been seen by some of the Com- mittee. The specimens seen were of good size, but not equal in that respect, or in beauty, to the colored representations of it ; they were of a spirited, brisk flavor, somewhat like that of the Beurre d'Aremberg. By the rules of the Society, premiums can only be awarded to those who are members. Contributions of those who are not, no matter how meritori- ous, cannot participate therein. It may be, that there have been some that 42 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. would have been thought worthy of a prize, had such not been precluded fajf this regulation. CAN WE GROW PEARS? A few months since a communication, to which this question served as a heading, appeared in the New York Tribune, from a writer of Buffalo, or vicinity of that city. In this, after giving his views upon this subject, mainly the result of facts in his own experience, the author concludes with the expression of an opinion adverse to the cultivation of this fruit. To this communication a reply subsequently appeared in the columns of the same journal, from Brooklyn, Long Island, in which, after controverting the statements first presented, and fortifying the position assumed by a de- tail of facts occurring under his own observation, the writer denies the justice of the conclusions before drawn, and gives his views as directly opposed to those that had been in the first instance expressed. The question presented relates to a matter of importance, especially if it admits of a doubt, as the presentation of it seems to imply ; and as it has already given rise to some discussion, it cannot be kept out of sight. Some consideration of it, then, seems justifiable, if not demanded, on the present occasion, such being intended to refer to this vicinity only. Facts are stubborn things, and, when well authenticated, cannot be gain- sayed ; but a difference of opinion may well exist with respect to the infer- ences to be thereby warranted. In each of the cases above alluded to, no doubt is felt with respect to the correctness of the different statements of facts submitted, but the question may well arise whether it would not have been more just, in each case, to limit the effects of the inferences drawn from these facts to the scenes of their occurrence, rather than to attempt to establish general conclusions thereby as applicable to a country so exten- sive, and with a soil and climate so varied, as is the United States. Isolated cases of individual experience, or of a limited number of such, hardly constitute data sufficiently safe to warrant any general conclusions in relation to a subject like that now in hand, for such experiences may prove to be exceptions, and not the rule. Experiments, to be of much value as constituting a general rule with respect to any culture, should have been numerous, conducted under a great variety of circumstance, and spread over a wide extent of territory. Instances are on record of great results obtained from a single or a few pear trees, as in a case presented by Mr. William Bacon of Roxbury, who, from a single tree of the Beurre Diel, eighteen years old, has sold on an average each year, for the last four years, $60 worth of pears — on one of these years the crop being sixty-eight dozen, that sold for $82 ; and from a tree of the Doyenne Sieulle, fourteen years old, the same gentleman has sold yearly, for the last three years, $30 worth of fruit on an average. But it would hardly do to adopt this remarkable case as a result that might be generally calculated on. If either with or without the skill of Mr. B., or his favorable situation for the purpose, a great number of the trees of these varieties should be planted, with the expectation of realizing anything like JANUARY. 43 similar results per tree, the attempt would end, it is believed, in most egregious disappointment. Cases could be pointed out where the cultiva- tion of the pear, on an extended scale, has been attended with profitable results, but the circumstances under which this has occurred should be carefully considered before drawing any inference therefrom. So, too, in cases of failure, arising perhaps from improper treatment, neglect, unsuit- able soil, or like causes, such should be taken into account before condemn- ing the culture. If this question — Can we grow pears ? — is to be restricted in its interpre- tation to the literal signification of the terms in which it is conveyed, it admits of but one reply — for that we can grow pears is a fact within the personal knowledge of nearly every man, woman, and child in the Com- monwealth, and that such can be produced in great perfection a few visits to the exhibitions of this Society will determine. But taking it, as no doubt was intended, in an enlarged and liberal sense — Can we grow pears successfully, that is, profitably ? — and it is believed it admits of an equally reliable, if less positive, affirmative answer. If the question had been put in somewhat different terms, as, Do we grow pears profitably ? truth might require a reply of a different character. It is true that there are no statistics in reference to the cultivation of the pear that can be much depended on, but in the absence of such— guided by such light as is afforded by a personal experience of some duration, and from such information as can be gathered from some of the more intelligent sources, it is believed, that though instances of success can be found, that such must be regarded as exceptional, and that, taking the whole cultiva- tion of the pear as it has been thus far generally pursued in this vicinity in the aggregate, that it has not only been unattended with profit, but has en- tailed a positive loss. But, notwithstanding the length of time that has elapsed since the great interest in this cultivation has manifested itself, it may be said that until now it has been in a state of pupilage — for it has only been by patient observation and long years of trial that knowledge has been acquired of the qualities of the different varieties, and the best modes of growing them. And then, how has this cultivation generally been conducted ? In most instances efforts have been directed, not towards producing fine fruit in the greatest perfection and quantity, but in the greatest number of varieties. Cultivators have gone on planting promiscuously varieties of feeble growth and sickly constitution equally with the vigorous and hardy ; very many of these proving to be of indifferent or worthless quality, others unproductive, with fruit deficient in size, leaving but a small proportion of such as were fertile and vigorous, and at the same time bearing fruit of good quality and adapted to the market. And this same system has been pursued by growers of every class — by the man with only a small garden plat equally with those of greater pretensions in the extent of their grounds. To all, the sickly and feeble sorts of Europe, if but announced as novelties with some high sounding designation, have been objects of attraction too powerful to be resisted, leading to the neglect of established kinds of known excellence. 44 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Til- great interest this cultivation has created has also sometimes led to the planting of soil not adapted to the tree, or not properly prepared for the purpose ; for every one wishes to grow pears, and as a disposition exists to gratify the inclination at the least cost, sometimes the mistake has been committed of setting out trees that could be got at the lowest price, without reference to quality — a policy that could hardly fail to defeat its own object. Is it wonderful that a culture so pursued has not been productive of pro- fitable results ? would it not have been more remarkable if it had been ? In what is here said of course it is not intended to depreciate the importance of collections of a g»eat number of varieties. An opinion of the value of such has already been expressed ; but when pursued as a matter of profit, it has been, it is thought, a mistake not to limit the cultivation to varieties of tried and established excellence. But to return to the question proposed. Can we grow pears'} To this it is confidently answered. Yes, if conditions essential to success are com- plied with, and then only. In the first place, when possible, a suitable sit- uation, with a proper exposure, should be selected, one somewhat sheltered from the violent winds that so prevail in this latitude, frequently causing such injurious effects ; and secondly, a soil adapted to the object. When the soil is not naturally favorable, it may frequently be made so by artificial means — by cultivation, trenching, and underdraining. A gentleman already named, Mr. Bacon, affords a striking example of what can be effected in this way, who, on a soil certainly not naturally promising, — a marsh, over which the tide occasionally flowed, — has, by his skill and industry, by the addition of soil and other ingredients, and a most thorough system of drain- ing, created one of the most beautiful and productive fruit gardens in the neighborhood of Boston. And similar results have been produced by Mr. Ames and others in the same vicinity, under somewhat similar circum- stances. Another requisite of success is the proper cultivation of the trees after planting, the application of manure in sufficient quantity of the right kind, and, above all, as may be inferred from the preceding remarks, it is believed a proper selection of varieties is essential to profitable results. A selection of hardy, vigorous sorts, that shall produce fruit of a quality adapted to the public taste, and such only, with — as it has been found by experience, that yellow or russet pears sell most readily, and at the highest price, in the market — some reference to the color of the fruit. When these, and such other conditions to success as shall suggest them- selves in each case to the intelligent cultivator, are complied with, that pears cannot be raised in Massachusetts, not with any brilliant results, but at a reasonable profit, as much as that afforded by other branches of Ameri- can horticulture, will not be admitted, until, after a thorough trial, the failure of such attempt shall be so clearly established as to compel its acknowledgment. In the preceding Report, it has been intended to give the opinions of the Committee on all subjects, when such have been expressed ; but as this has onlybeen the case with a few of the topics herein embraced, it must 45 be understood that for the views presented the Chairman is to be con- sidered alone and wholly responsible. It remains but to give the awards of premiums as made by the Com- mittee, a list of the same being hereunto subjoined: — PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES AWARDED DURING THE SEASON. For the best and most interesting exhibition of Fruits during the season, the Lowell plate, to J. F, Allen, For the next best, to Hovey & Co., .... For the next best, to H. Vandine, .... Apples. — For the best twelve Summer apples, on or before the third Saturday in August, to Hovey & Co., for Early Bough, For the next best, to G. B. Cutter, for Williams, For the best twelve Autumn apples, on or before the first Satur day in December, to Thaddeus Clapp, for Gravenstein, For the next best, to James Eustis, for Gravenstein, For the best twelve Winter apples, on or before the first Satur- day in December, to Francis Dana, for Ladies Sweet, For the next best, to J. W. Foster, for Baldwin, Apricots. — For the best twelve, .... For the next best, ..... Not awarded — no competitors. Blackberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to James Nugent, for Dorchester, .... For the next best, to Galen Merriam, for Dorchester, For the next best, to Levi Jennings, for Lawton, For the next best, to C. E. Grant, for Dorchester, Cherries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to W. Bacon, for Black Tartarian, Tor the next best, to S. Cadwell, for Black Tartarian, For the next best, to C. E. Grant, for Napoleon Bigarreau Currants. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to M. P. Wilder, for La Versaillaise, . For the next best, to James Nugent, for White Dutch, Figs. — For tive best twelve specimens, to Gen. J. Newhall, For the next best, to J. F. Allen, . . . , Gooseberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to J. Mitchell, ...... For the next best, to A. D. Webber, Grapes. — For the best specimens, grown under glass, on or be fore the third Saturday in J uly, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, For the next best, to Nahum Stetson, For the next best, to M. H. Simpson, For the best specimens, grown under glass, subsequently to the third Saturday in July, to W. P. Perkins, . |,15 00 10 00 7 00 6 00 4 00 6 00 4 00 6 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 8 00 6 00 4 00 8 00 46 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. For the next best, to J. F. Allen, .... For the next best, to C. S. Holbrook, For the best specimens of Native grapes, to G. B. Cutter, for Isabella, ....... For the next best, to C. E. Grant, for Isabella, For the next best, to E. W. Bull, for Concord, For the next best, to E. A. Brackett, for Delaware, . Melons. — For the best Muskmelon, grown under glass, on or before the third Saturday in July. For the best Muskmelon, open culture, on or before the third Saturday in September. For the best Watermelon, on or before the third Saturday in September. No competition. Nectarines. — For the best twelve specimens, to Dr. N. Durfee, for Lewis, ...... For the next best, to Nahum Stetson, for Lewis, Peaches. — For the best specimens, grown under glass, on or be ford the third Saturday in July, to Oliver Bennet, . For the next best, to C. S. Holbrook, For the best twelve specimens, open culture, to C. E. Grant, for Bergen's Yellow, ..... For the next best, to F. Dana, for Late Crawford, Pears. — For the best collection, not exhibited before this year with a written description of the same, For the next best, ..... Not awarded. For the best twelve Summer pears, on or before the third Satur- day in August, to M. P. Wilder, for Bloodgood, For the next best, to Hovey & Co., for St. Menin, For the next best, to W. H. Palmer, for Madeleine, . For the best twelve Autumn pears, on or before the third Saturday in November, to R. W. Ames, for Urbaniste, For the next best, to John Mason, for Bartlett, For the next best, to C. E. Grant, for Beurr6 Bosc, . For the best twelve Winter pears, on or before the first Satur- day in December, to A. J. Dean, for Easter Beurr6, For the next best, to R. W. Ames, for Easter Beurr6, For the next best, to William Bacon, for Beurr6 Diel, For the next best, to H. Vandine, for Winter Nelis, , Plums. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to Henry Vandine, ..... For the next best, to Thomas Hastings, For the next best, to C. E. Grant, Quinces. — For the best twelve specimens, to J. A. Stetson, For the next best, to Francis Dana, . $6 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 5 00 4 00 10 00 6 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 3 00 2 00 6 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 3 00 2 00 > . $i 00 3 00 2 00 5 00 4 00 3 00 2 00 JANUARY. 47 Raspbkrries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to W. R. Austin, for Knevett's Giant, For the next best, to W. H. Barnes, for the same. For the next best, to J. W. Foster, for the same, Strawberries. — For the best specimens, not less than two boxes, to Hovey & Co., for Boston Pine, • For the next best, to W, H. Barnes, for Brighton Pine, For the next best, to C. Copeland, for Jenny Lind, . For the next best, to J. Stone, for Hovey Seedling, . GRATUITIES. To H. Hunnewell, for strawberries, the Society's silver medal. The Magazine of Horticulture for the year 1859, to tlie undernamed : — C. Kingsley, for strawberries ; C. Heard, for cherries ; N. C. Cros- by, for pears : Bowen Harrington, for exhibition during the season ; George Nichols, for grapes ; E. Brown, for apples and pears ; George W^on, for cherry currants ; Wm. Wales, for grapes ; S. Blagge, for grapes ; J. B. Loomis, for Rostiezer pears ; J. Haley, for pears ; Mrs. Hancock, for pears ; E. A. Brackett, for Union Village grapes •, W. C. Barton, for pears ; J. Munroe, for apples ; Jacob Gooding, for pears ; J. M. Moore, for pears ; G. Gilbert, for pears ; S. W. Fowle, for apples ; George Kingman, for pears ; James Deering, for pears ; George A. Goddard, for pears ; H. Curtis, for B. Bachelier pears; Henry Vandine, for Beurre Clairgeau pears; Eben. Wight, for Smith's Cider apples; W. W. Wheildon, for apples ; John C. Whiton. for Diana grapes ; D. Beal, Jr., for Diana grapes ; and the Society's silver medal to Oliver Bennet for the Lady Downe's grape. The premiums and gratuities awarded at the Annual Exhibition will be found in our last Vol. (XXIV.) p. 485. i0rtiailteiil ©peraJions FOR JANUARY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The month of December was a very cool and disagreeable month, with but few pleasant days, and frequent snows and cold rains, with a low temperature, though not excessively cold, yet sufficiently so to put a stop to all out-door operations, consequently directing the efforts of the gar- dener to in-door labors, where there is always enough to occupy his attention. Grape Vines, in the earliest houses, are now maturing their crop. Where this is the case, by keeping an even temperature and dry at- mosphere, the fruit may be kept fresh and plump till March, or even later ; 48 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. consequently but little labor, though close attention, will be required dur- ing this time. Vines in the grapery, if pruned and cleaned, will need but little care till next month, when they will begin to grow. See that the border is well protected by a thick covering of manure or other warm material, to keep out frost and cold rains. Vines in pots may now be introduced into the grapery. Peach and Fig Trees, now brought into the greenhouse or grapery, will ripen their fruit in June. Apple Trees may be root-grafted now, where this mode of propagation is in favor. FLOWER DEPARTMENT. The month of January is the period to commence active work for the coming season. By beginning thus early, everything will be done in good season. Propagation should be commenced in earnest, and all young stock forwarded as fast as possible. Camellias will now begin to bloom freely, and should be kept well watered and syringed freely in good bright weather. Ill shaped plants may now be pruned. Pelargoniums will be particular objects of care, as no collection can be complete without a good variety. Finish repotting this month, and tie out the branches. Keep rather dry, cool and M'ell aired. Cinerarias may be repotted now, especially the strong flowering plants. Fumigate often to keep down the green fly. Calceolarias should be repotted, and late seedlings put into small pots. Roses, taken up late, should now be pruned, and have a good airy sit- uation ; syringing often to have them break well. Azaleas will soon begin to grow, when they should be watered more liberally. Monthly Carnations, growing freely, may be repotted. Tie up the shoots as they advance in growth. Gloxinias and Achimenes should now be potted for early bloom. Japan Lilies may yet be potted, if not already done. Those beginning to grow should have a favorable situation. Verbenas, repotted now, will bloom freely in February and March. Scarlet Geraniums, for blooming in the house, should now be shifted into larger pots. Deutzia gracilis, and other plants, taken up for forcing, may now be brought into the house. Cactuses should be very sparingly watered now. Pansies, for early bloom, should be shifted into larger pots, and have a good place on a cool airy shelf, near the glass. Bedding Plants of all kinds may be propagated. Annual Seeds of many kinds may be sown. Hotbeds may be made for forcing many kinds of plants and seeds next month. APPLE CULTURE IN WESTERN NEW YORK. Though the pear has for some time occupied much of the attention of cultivators, it is not because other fruits, especially the apple, are not equally as important, but because their culture is better understood, and, as a general rule, they are not so particular as to soils, location", pruning, &c,, and give fair results, even with somewhat neglected treatment. We do not mean to be understood by this that the apple does not require attention, and will not amply reward the orchardist for thorough culture as well as the pear ; but that of one thousand trees of both apple and pear, set out in any average soil, and subjected to the treatment usually given to our orchards, the apple will give the most profitable results in a period of twenty years or more. To show why we think this. is so, would occupy more space than we have to spare ; but we may add as a principal cause, that the apple will always be in far greater demand than the pear, because it comes intO' more general use, and is better adapted for transportation, shipment and long keeping than it is possible for the finer varieties of pears ever to become. Hence the supply of ap- ples must be far greater than that of pears, and they will sell by the thousand barrels when pears will only be wanted by- the bushel. Indeed, no matter how high the pear is estimated, — and we place it as high as any one, — among our hardy fruits, there can be no question in regard to the greater value and impor- tance of the apple. It comes into universal use ; is transported all over the globe, and will always prove as staple a crop for the orchardist, as the potato will for the farmer. Such being, we believe, generally admitted, it is important that so valuable a fruit should engage the attention of culti- vators, especially in a locality so celebrated for its orchards as Western New York, and we have been gratified in reading the report of the meeting of Fruit-Growers of that part of the Empire State, recently convened in Rochester, where it held VOL. XXV. — NO. II. 4 50 THE MAGAZINE OP HOKTICDLTUEE. a session of two days, discussing various important subjects, and especially that of orcharding on an extensive scale. Its deliberations have been of more than usual interest, and we congratulate the members in their endeavors to render the proceedings something more than a mere gathering of culti- vators, without accomplishing any real good. After all that has been said against our well known Eastern apples, in the Western Pomological Reports and before the American Pomological Society, it is cheering to see them placed, by the intelligent" fruit-growers of Western New York, just where they belong, at the head of all apples. And if justly placed,* as we believe they are, what is there so different in the climate and soil of nearly the same parallel of latitude, extending to the Rocky Mountains, and even in California, which should not give them the preeminence which is so heartily accorded to them by the cultivators of New York ? Indeed, nothing. It may be, and undoubtedly is true, that in the warmer climate of the Southern States these delicious fruits are ruined, just as a southern clime enervates the human constitution, and for that region, per- haps, southern-raised apples may be best ; but that in the whole temperate latitude of the United States they will not remain the same, we can scarcely believe. Is it, therefore, sound wisdom to urge the cultivation of other new and com- paratively untested sorts, in the place of the tried and well known, to the great loss of the planter, and the disappoint- ment of the consumer ? We think not. We have been struck with the unanimity of opinion which appears to have prevailed among all the members who gave their opinions in regard to apples. We were unprepared for this. We had long known that, in the Eastern States, the Baldwin, Rhode Island Greening and Roxbury Russet have been the principal apples raised ; that the Baldwin has sold far better than all others, and that the supply has never been equal to the demand. But we had supposed the Western New York cultivators had a different experience, for we al- ways found the Baldwin less abundant there than other sorts, and supposed this was because it and the other kinds named were inferior, or unsuited to their market. Whenever we FEBRUARY. 61 have inquired why this was so, we have been told that the Spitzenberg, Fameuse, Westfield Seek-no-Further, Northern Spy, could not .have been brought to such a state. Nor do we see what this FEBRUARY. 85 result could have come from, except from the addition of something very unlike the substances which Mr. Roberts now informs us he employed. It was not the border; oh, no, it was nothing of the kind. It was all owing to that abominable sheet glass. That was it, says Mr. Roberts. If he h;id but known what sheet glass was he would never have used it ; and when he had glazed the houses with it and found it would not do, to his great mortification the Lord of Raby refused to have the houses unglazed and reglazed, "telling him that he had had his own way in the con- struction of the vineries and must abid'e by them." A reply which showed the duke to be more sensible than his gardener. It was sheet glass that made the vine shoots turn black and fall down ; it was that which pre- vented the vines breaking properly, which brought mildew upon the leaves, and we presume kept fibres off the roots. These things did not come of carrion-feeding, but of sheet glass. That he ascertained, ihough by what means is not mentioned, unless by some diagrams with which " Captain Wood" enlightened him, and which he regarded as conclusive proof of the danger of using this glazing material. But we forget — Mr. Roberts did ascertain something else — he ascertained that ventilation was antagonistic to burning, and that by giving air in sufficient quantity, although shoot after shoot had been destroyed, his vines bore excessive crops — " berries and bunches unequalled by any vinery in the kingdom ;" a rather strong expres- sion, which we leave to the consideration of his brother gardeners. We cannot but wonder that it should not have occurred to Mr. Roberts that the destruction of his vine shoots was owing to want of sufficient ventilation and not to the burning quality of sheet glass — unless indeed it was alto- gether brought about by the rank, watery state of the vines themselves. Scorching, if that is meant by the word burning, as we suppose it must be after what is said of Capt. Wood's diagrams, is physically impossible in the presence of efficient ventilation, as is too well understood to require demonstration. That Mr. Roberts is, or was, a skilful successful grape grower no one can be more ready than ourselves to acknowledge : but he must excuse ua for adding that his better judgment failed him when he mounted dead horses and cows, and rode them into vine borders ; and when having glazed his " model " vineries with sheet glass he forgot to provide adequate ventilation. In this last particular he seems to have imitated the architect who built a house and forgot the staircase. — [Card. Chron., 1858, p. 9;j9.) Finest Ornamental Trees for Avenues.— It is reported that the Royal Commissioners for 1851 are about to plant their three great roads, viz.. Exhibition Road, Cornwall Road, and Prince Albert's Road, with lime trees. Notwithstanding the beauty of this tree, we cannot but hope that the statement is erroneous, and that an opportunity will not be lost of show- ing what effect can be produced by something less hackneyed. Surely it will be highly discreditable to this, the greatest horticultural country in the world, if nothing more can be found for avenues than trees employed in the days of the Tudors. For forty years very large sums have been annually 86 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. spent in procuring new hardy plants from every accessible clime, and it will reflect little credit upon the advisers of the royal commissioners if they should prove so poor in resources as to have, in 1858. nothing better to recommend for avenues than might, indeed, have been had at the Conquest. What is required for avenues near London ? Trees that are durable, have handsome foliage, that grow fast, that will bear occasional winter fogs, and the long east winds that prevail here in the spring. The handsomest, the fastest growing, and the latest in leafing because the least likely to suffer from cold northeast winds, are the best for this purpose. Elm trees, lime trees, and beech trees are most in use, because they were the trees of our forefathers, and people in country places, when avenues were made, even if they had had other trees, would not have thought of looking beyond what they could find in their own neighborhood. But that elm trees and lime trees have formidable rivals, is sufficiently proved by the glorious horse chestnuts of Bushy. Avenues of horse chestnuts at Kensington would in- deed be far preferable to lime trees, if we must trot along at the pace of pack-horses. But are we to disregard everything that modern experience has shown to be suitable for avenues, except the trees just mentioned ? Have North American maples no merit, nor sweet chestnuts, nor oriental planes, nor any of the oaks, nor the glorious tulip trees, nor graceful ailanths, nor the noble Black American walnuts ? Surely among these something may be found more worthy the royal commission roads than elms, beeches, limes, and even horse chestnuts. Elms, indeed, are not to be thought of; it would never do to plant by roadsides trees so rotten in their old age as to be dangerous to passers by. The experience of Hyde Park is a warning. Nor would be.eches answer, because of their invariable secretion of honey dew, Avhich would gum London soot to their leaves, and speedily throw them out of health. It may bo asked why Spanish chestnuts are not selected — trees far more beautiful than lime trees, both in foliage and flower, graceful in youth, majestic in old age, and possessing every quality that is required. True sessile-fruited oaks, among the finest of trees, will bear London atmosphere, and might be associated with Spanish chestnuts alternately. Oriental planes, than which none are hardier, none more umbrageous, none better suited to our parks, witli good management will grow much more than a foot a year in height, and endure forever. These things are well known to all men. Among less common species, there is the Acer eriocarpum, commonly called Sir Charles Wager's maple, one of the fastest growing of American trees, remarkable for its airy foliage, light green in spring, rich rose color in autumn. With it might alternate the Acer macrophyllum of Oregon, a specimen of which in even unfavorable ground has made nearly two feet in height annually, and has now, at the end of about twenty-eight years, a girth of six feet. Nothing could be more striking than the massive deep green foliage of the latter associated with the lighter shade of the former. ^| FEBEUARY. 87 Are Turkey oaks to be passed by ? They grow faster than the lime, and, owing to the thinness of their foliage, are exceedingly gi-aceful. Then there are tulip trees. Let any one look at the specimens on Ham Common, and say whether such magnificent vegetation is to be disregarded. A tulip tree, in land no better than that of the Cornwall Road, grows as fast as any lime. Above all things, we should regret to find the claims of Ailanthus and the Black American walnut passed by. These trees are so much alike in general ' aspect that they may be spoken of together. Each will grow as fast as the fastest Horse chestnut, has noble rich green pinnated leaves, and the first, in good seasons, is resplendent with crimson fiuit. Surely they deserve to be thought of. Were each of the three avenues now to be planted furnished with its own peculiar trees, two sorts in each case planted alternately, an admirable effect might be obtained by some such arrangement as the following : — Cornwall Road, tulip trees alternating with Acer eriocarpum ; Exhibition Road, Black walnuts and Acer macrophyllum ; Prince's Road, Turkey oaks or sessile-fruited oaks and Spanish chestnuts. If it should be said that such trees, of the requisite height, are not procurable in England, we have two answers — 1. There are more nurseries than the English; the Continent and United States are within easy distance. 2. Let the planting be defer- red until trees of the requisite height can be raised in nurseries under a contract to supply them at a future time. — [Gard. Chron., 1858, p. 923.) Wash to Destroy Insects. — M. Letellier, a medical man at Taverny, near St. Leu, states that he finds an excellent wash for destroying insects to be made by boiling 1 'i pints water in 62 grains each of Red American potash, flour of sulphur, and soap. If it requires to be stronger, the quantity of sulphur and potash may be doubled, but the soap must remain the same. Immersion for a second only kills even ants, the largest cater- pillars, and the cockchaffer grubs. The solution does no harm to plants. When grubs have to be killed, a hole is made in the ground with a dibble, and a funnel is placed in the hole, through which the solution is poured. — {Jour, of Paris Hort. Soc.) K Exhibition of Grapes and other Fruits in Italy. — The Imperial and Royal Horticultural Society of Tuscany held an exhibition in Septem- ber last. After a longer interval than usual, this exhibition was held in the garden of Sig. Cesare Franchetti, of Florence, which was provided with temporary sheds and adorned with festoons and wreaths under the able direction of Sig. Francesco Petrini. The most striking object was the extensive and varied collection of fruits, displayed in three long rows, and especially the apples and pears. Sig. Silvestro Grilli exhibited above 200 varieties, many of them new to Florence, and obtained a first class prize medal. Sig. Carlo Siemoni's collection also contained a considerable number of new varieties, many of which he had imported from Germany, instead of Belgium, France, or Holland, whence most growers of the coun- 88 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. try obtain their stock. The subalpine position and climate of Sig. Siemoni's establishment at the Casentino increased the merits of his exhibition, which for a moment balanced that of Sig. Grilli in the minds of the judges, who ultimately awarded him an accessit to the first class prize. The second prize was given to the Marchesso Ridolfi for his choice collection of well- grown varieties of apples and pears. The pears exhibited by the Royal Gardens of Poggio a Caiano and by the agent of Prince Corsini were hon- orably mentioned. A new pear, named by the exhibitor, Carlo Luzzatti, after the above named Siemoni, is spoken of with praise. A very gratifying sight was the reappearance of rich and extensive col- lections of grapes. The first prize was awarded to Dr. Antonio Salvagnoli, who exhibited 106 varieties, of which 57 were foreign to Tuscany. To- gether with the commoner grapes were many of the most rare and precious kinds — those which supply the celebrated wines of Artimino, Monte Pul- ciano, and Chianti ; those from the vineyards of the Rhine, of Fiance, Sicily, America and Greece, the Tokay, Lachryma Christi, Hermitage, Isabella, and Passolina of Corinth. Among table grapes were the ^Egina grape, the Salamanna, the Aleatico, the Muscatell, and two varieties with- out stones, one quite a new one. The second prize was given to the Roboli garden for 41 varieties, of which 35 were table grapes; and an honorable mention to the Marchesse Ridolfi for 40 varieties, including 21 table grapes. The third prize, specially reserved for table grapes, was given to Dr. Sal- vagnoli for 48 varieties, including the Oporto, the Malvoisie (Malmsey), the Cyprus, the White Portugal, and the Spanish Muscat, most of them rare or almost new to Tuscany. Honorable mention was made of an enormous bunch of what was called the Uva di Gerusalemme, but which was in reality the Land of Promise grape [Uva della Terra Promessa) from the Royal Castello garden, and of a vigorous plant in a pot covered with leaves and fruit of the Salamanna grape, produced by Sig. Emilio Scoti by a peculiar method of laying. In peaches and plums a second class prize was awarded to the Cav. Odoardo Bartalini for seven excellent peaches, including the Pesca Melo, the Bianci di Nizza, the Ammirabile Belga, and Pesca Mandorla, and for four delicious plums. Those of the Roboli garden were honorably men- tioned, and particular notice was taken of the Vagaloggia Cotogna pe^h of Sig. Carraresi, both for its excellent quality and beautiful appearance. — {Gard. Chron., 1858, p. 907.) On Roses in General. — I don't know what was supposed to be the effect of the roses which used to be hallowed at Rome, on the Sunday called Lsetare Jerusalem, such as Pope Pius the Second sent to James II. of Scotland, and Sextus V. to the Prince of Parma ; but I do know that it showed an amazing confidence on the part of the reverend gentlemen to imagine that the queen of flowers could receive improvement at their hands. And, furthermore, I feel equally assured that if the individuals to whom the bouquets were addressed could not derive more gratification from a rose freshly gathered in their own gardens than from those distant speci- FEBRUARY. 89 mens, which must have reached them in a most for]orn and fady condition, their noses must have been very Roman indeed, and their optics wofully in need of rose water. Consecrate the rose ! it is consecrated. Look at it in the first sunlight of some dewy morn, and say, is it not holy and sweet and pure, as infant at the font ? Consecrate the rose ! as well ask him whose skilful hand has painted the sweet portrait of fair "Louis Chaix," to beautify the rose itself. Well, this magniloquent preface about popes and kings (it is always a good plan to begin an article with a flourish of trumpets, because it creates a sensation, and gives an idea of importance, like a violent pull at the front-door bell, and an energetic demonstration with the knocker) only means that we rose growers gallantly believe in the absolute perfection of our royal mistress, and doggedly deny (no pun intended upon Rosa canina) that she requires any other benefit of clergy than that which she already receives from Anglican rectors, vicars, and curates. At the same time we cordially assure both "Pius IX." and "Eveque de Nimes" that they will always meet in our rose gardens with every possible attention. Let us dwell a brief while on the perfections of our favorite, taking a caution first of all never to attempt to prove them by comparing her with other flowers. Not to mention that her royal supremacy is undisputed, we lose half the happiness of floriculture, as of most other things, by insti- tuting comparisons. It is always either " This is nothing at all to that," or, " Ah, but you should have seen it yesterday," or, " I'm told there's a great improvement," &c. Oh, my friend, hover round a beautiful rose in happy joy like a butterfly, don't go at it like a grub. If Louise Peyronny smiles on you, why sigh for Lselia ? or, if Lselia delights with her magnifi- cent beauty, why stay your admiration to repine because she is not Tea- scented ? Abjure, too, forever, as a robber of your content and happiness, that mean insatiate " if" — " if it were but a Perpetual," " if it were but a little larger," &c. Try by all means to attain the attributes you desiderate, but, until you attain them, enjoy, with a thankful heart, the charms and graces before you. Of the chief perfections of the rose — its color, form, and fragrance — it were presumptuous to say much, but I may, perhaps, be allowed to refer to some minor claims not so generally discussed, but of great importance to all lovers of a garden, and especially to two classes thereof— to men of limited experience, and to men of limited means. The rose is easy to cultivate. — Wherever pure English air has access, it will bloom. Some soils may prefer the Manetti, and some the Briar, and some may need much more additional support than others ; but where flow- ers grow, there blooms the rose. It is adapted for all purposes. — Do you wish to cover that huge, ugly brick wall with the drear and bleak west aspect ? What will do it for you so speedily, so successfully, as Rosa sempervirens ? Rampant, for in- stance, once established, will spread itself over the whole space in no time, and be peeping down the chimney pots in a couple of years. Do you want 90 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. a single tree, or a gigantic bed ? What shall excel a fine standard of Jules Margottin for the first, or any amount of Gloire de Dijon, and the Geant, or General Jacqueminot, H. P., you can plant, for the latter ? and as to cut flowers for the bouquetier, the drawing room, or the dessert table, consult the best authorities extant — ask the ladies. Its reign is as long as it is glorious. — With glass you may have it al- ways ; without glass seven months in the year. The beautiful Banksise sparkles first in the firmament in May ; and in November, I have this year cut some of the most beautiful blooms of Gloire de Dijon and Narcisse (from standards against an east wall), and of Souvenir de la Reine d'Angle- terre (a very delightful addition to our autumnal bloomers, so numerous on paper, but so rare on the tree), and of the Duchess of Sutherland, that rose growers would desire to see. It is cheap. — For a couple of shillings you may have a well-grown, beau- tiful specimen of a most beautiful rose. "Ladies and gentlemen" (to quote the auctioneer), " I blush to mention so paltry a sum in connection with so glorious an article ;" but, seriously, how can half-a-crown be more remu- neratively, rationally spent than in an " extra picked tall standard " of Paul Ricaut ? This is all very well, some may say, but I wish to be au courant du jour, and to have new roses like my wealthier neighbors. Such aspira- tions are somewhat unreasonable, but the rose is an indulgent mistress, and allows luxuries even to her poorer subjects. Learn to " bud." Buy your stocks at a penny apiece, and spend your surplus money in procuring the newer kinds. I shall not offend my friends in the trade by giving this ad- vice, because they know well, as I know well from my own experience, that such an extension of facilities materially increases the demand ; the more abundantly and satisfactorily a man grows roses, the more desirous he is to increase and diversify his collection. For the love of the rose, as our grand-master at Sawbridgeworth has told us, never declines, but deep- ens. I remember that I thought, some fifteen years ago, " I shall be happy when I have got a hundred rose trees;" but if I were asked now what would really satisfy, I could not conscientiously name anything under one hundred acres. Indeed, I feel, with regard to roses, very much like that provost of Trinity College, Dublin, of whom the lord-lieutenant, his co- temporary, remarked, "If I could give Hutchinson all England for his estate, he would want the Isle of Man for a potato garden." I am by no means singular in my greediness. Never was the rose so popular. Her majesty's grand drawing room at St. James's Hall, in July, seems to have enlarged her influence a thousand-fold, and I hear people talking already all over the country of her next public manifestation. Oh, dear! how amused I was the other day at a dinner party, to watch the ex- pression of astonishment and indignation on old Lady 's face, when she heard that his reverence, the vicar, had actually had the audacity to plant, that very day, twelve new rose trees. I thought she would have shyed her plate at him. " Really," she confided to me, " it is no affair of mine, but how the clergy can incur these frightful expenses I am at a loss to know. Only think of our friend opposite laying out his income in FEBEUAEY. 91 Lord Palmerston and Louis Chaix, roses which I assure you are only just known in this country, and which my people have had great difficulty in procuring at all, — and his poor dear wife with twins!" and she lifted up her hands and eyebrows as though the Bradford catastrophe was not a fiftieth part as horrible— the real secret of her wrath being this, that the ecclesiastic was a rival exhibitor. Arriving, in my ramble among the roses (and one loves to think and write about them with the same happy freedom from restraint with which we saunter from flower to flower in the sweet summertide), at the subject of exhibition and " the grand national," I am reminded that it can scarcely fail to interest rose growers to know which of their favorites showed most often in front at our first great meeting in St. James's Hall ; and it seems to me that the following statistics will both interest the experienced and instruct the newly-initiated rose grower : — How often exhibited Name of Rose. Species. in winning stands. Crested Moss 4 Gloire des Mosseuses ... do. 3 Prolific do. .3 Salet Perpetual 2 Thirty-two other varieties exhibited — one specimen of each. Boule de Nanteuil .... Gallica 10 Ohl do. 6 Duchess of Buccleuch ... do. 3 Lsetitia do. 3 William Tell do. 3 Thirty other varieties exhibited. Brennus Hybrid China 6 Chen6dol6 do. 4 Juno do. 4 Eight other varieties. Coupe d'Heb6 Hybrid China 10 Paul Ricaut do. 6 Charles Duval do. 4 Paul Perras do. 4 Nine other varieties. Felicity Parmentier .... Alba 6 Princesse de Lambelle ... do. 2 Three other varieties. Madame Zoutman .... Damask . 3 La Ville de Bruxelles ... do. 2 Madame Hardy .... do. 2 No other variety. Persian Yellow Austrian Briar 1 Auguste Mie Hybrid Perpetual 17 Caroline de Sansal .... do. 15 Jules Margottin .... do. 15 92 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. How often exhibited Name of Rose. Species. in winning stands. Baronne Provost .... Hybrid Perpetual 12 General Jaqueminot .... do. 12 Louise Peyronny .... do. 12 Lord Raglan do. 12 William Griffiths .... do. 12 Madame Masson .... do. 11 Souvenir de la Reine d'Angleterre . do. 11 La Reine do. 10 Madame Vidot do. 10 Triomphe de I'Exposition ... do. 10 One liundred other varieties exhibited. Souvenir de Malmaison . . . Bourbon 15 Acidalie do. 4 Dr. Lepestre do. 3 Dupelit Thouars .... do. 3 Fifteen other varieties exhibited. Mrs. Bosanquet China 2 Gloire de Dijon Tea-scented 12 Devoniensis do. 8 Souvenir d'un Ami .... do. 8 Comte de Paris .... do. 4 Twenty-three other varieties. Lamarque Noisette 8 Cloth of Gold do. 6 Narcisse do. 6 Thirteen other varieties.— ( Garrf. Chron., 1858, p. 940.) Flowering the Pawlovnia in the Greenhouse. — It appears that Paw- lovnia may be made a dwarf flowering plant without difficulty. This tree, ■whose deliciously scented blossoms, with their pale lilac color and grand trumpet form, render it one of the finest of all our hardy trees, has the great fault of flowering only at the ends of the branches. They are therefore out of reach and almost out of sight. We are, however, informed by M. Pepin that branches cut off" in mid-winter will flower without roots, and can therefore be enjoyed in any common greenhouse. At Alfort, in the garden of M. Rousset, a very large Pawlovnia, eight yards high, was transplanted last December. Its head being excessively spreading, it was necessary to cut off" some, especially as many were accidentally broken. These branches were left on the ground all winter long. On the following IGth May, the gardener was astonished to see every branch covered at the extremity with flower- buds, which in due time expanded as well as, or even better than, those on the tree itself, without any loss of color or fragrance. It is doubtless very remarkable that a tree should be thus able to blossom in perfection on branches cut off five months previously. The explanation is, however, easy. The flower-buds of Pawlovnia are completely organized in the FEBRUAEY. 93 autumn. During winter they sit upon the branches warmly wrapped in their thick fur coats ; when spring arrives they cast off their garments with their torpor, and burst into blossom. Even if remaining on the tree, they have nothing to feed upon except the little sap stored up in their neighbor- hood. That sap is as present and active in the dissevered branches as in the branches that remain attached to the tree, and therefore there is nothing to hinder the development of the flowers. — [Gard. Chron., 1858, p. 878.) icssig of i\t Pcntlj. Introduction of Tea Plants. — It is stated in the report of the recent meeting of the "advisory Board of Agriculture," at Washington, ''that an agent has been employed [Mr. Fortune, we presume] to visit the tea dis- tricts of China for the purpose of collecting seeds of the tea shrub, and of other plants, for the Patent Office. A suitable propagating house, 125 by 25 feet, has been recently erected for the successful starting of sixty thou- sand tea plants. These will be distributed to various sections of the coun- try where climate may promise the successful culture of the plant." We hardly know a more quixotic experiment. Great Britain has tried the introduction of the tea plant into Assam, having employed Mr. Fortune for that purpose, but, notwithstanding the cheap labor of that country, it is doubtful if tea enough will be produced in a hundred years to furnish any great supply. The tea plant will grow readily enough in any of the South- ern States, but that this country can ever compete with the Chinese in its manufacture, unless a duty (which our Southern cultivators do not believe in) of 500 per cent, is levied upon the article, we do not think very proba- ble. The seed may be readily obtained, and the plants as easily raised as beans, but the first pound of good tea which is manufactured from the plants at a cost of less than five dollars, we should be very glad to purchase. Seeds from the Patent Office. — A correspondent of the Country Gentleman states " that many of the kinds and varieties of garden and field plants distributed by the Patent Office have proved new to him and of su- perior quality, and the vitality of the seed has proved equal to those he has sown, put up by our seedsmen." It would be of some interest for the writer to name the varieties of seeds which are new to him, as they might be very old and well known to others, who are familiar with what our seedsmen offer for sale. There are many people in Massachusetts, living within a few miles of Boston, who don't know what mellilot, celery, broccoli, okra, and many other vegetables are. To such, no doubt, the Patent Office seeds would be new. If the writer will furnish a list of such new seeds as have not been offered for sale by the seedsmen in Boston, New York and Phila- delphia, from one to twenty years, we will publish it at length. The Chi- nese Sugar Cane was first imported by the Boston seedsmen. 94 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. Greenhodses on the Ascending Principle. — A new method of constructing greenhouses, on what is called the ascending principle, is de- tailed in the Country Gentleman. Its great merit is, that it can be heated by one furnace at one end. Such an ingenious contrivance might be of considerable value where the ground was situated on a side hill. But to erect such an unsightly structure within sight of the house»or the garden, simply to save a little fuel, is more than we can believe any lover of archi- tectural effect would attempt to do. Greenhouses, as usually built, are ugly structures at the best, but the ascending principle of construction must make them hideous. The Progress of Thirty Years. — The Country Gentleman, in giv- ing an account of the agricultural and horticultural progress of New York during the last thirty years, says " it was hard to find a ten-acre nursery, twenty-eight years ago, in the whole Union." The writer probably never heard of the old and well known nurseries of Wm. Prince, of Flushing, L. I., which, at the commencement of that period, were very much more extensive, and were well filled with a valuable collection of trees and plants. Messrs. Landreth, of Philadelphia, we think had rather more than ten acres under cultivation ; and Mr. Kenrick of Newton and Messrs. Winship of Brighton occupied much more ground, and had very large collections of trees of all kinds. The Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for 1859 will be held on the 21st, 22d, 23d and 24th of September next. lortiailtunil ©pnitions FOR FEBRUARY. FRUIT department. The early part of January was very cold and cloudy, though the latter part has been mild and pleasant. The night of the 10th was one of the coldest for thirty years, having been exceeded but twice, viz., in 1835 and 1857. On the morning of the 11th, the thermometer indicated from 14° to 20° below zero in the neighborhood of Boston, according to the locality. It was sudden and very intense, and has, we suspect, caused some injury to fruit and other trees. Peaches, so far as we have examined a few trees, have all their buds killed. Owing to the cool and cloudy weather of the last two months, early forcing has been attended with much labor. But witli the return of warmer weather, longer days and shorter nights, the worst is over. Grape Vines in the earliest houses, where well managed, will still have their crop in good order ; as soon, however, as the fruit is all cut, more air may be given to ripen ofT the wood. In vineries not quite so early, and where the grapes are just coloring, a drier atmosphere should be kept, and FEBRUARY. 95 as much air given as the weather will allow. Vines in graperies and green- houses will now begin to break, and will require to be carefully looked after. Begin with a moderate temperature, 45° to 50° at night, increasing it gradually from 50° to 55°. Syringe often in good weather, and admit air as freely as possible. An attempt to hasten the vines will usually end in a partial failure of the crop. Eyes may now be put in for raising a stock of young vines. Vines in pots, now showing bloom, should be liberally wa- tered. Peach and Fig Trees may be brought in for a succession. Apple Trees may be root-grafted. Grafting Trees may be commenced the last of the month, if the weather is not too cold. Pruning may be commenced this month. Where there is much to do, it will be a great saving of time. Scions for Grafting may be cut, and put away in soil or sand in a cool cellar. Strawberry, Raspberry, and other fruit seeds, may be planted now in pots in the greenhouse or frame. flower department. With the returning spring soon at hand, the gardener will find all his energies baffled if he does not commence his operations in season, and lay out the work to be completed in Mriy. The houses now will require a complete rearrangement ; repotting to be done ; propagation to be carried on ; seeds to plant, and the hundred other little things which occupy atten- tion where there is a garden or grounds of any extent. No time should be lost, therefore, in accomplishing everything as speedily as possible. Pelargoniums, as the season advances, become objects of more atten- tion; they will now begin to push rapidly and will require care; all the shoots should be neatly tied out, and the superfluous ones cut away. Choose the very lightest situation near the glass ; water rather sparingly and air abundantly ; they will then form stocky plants, and bloom vigor- ously. Young stock should be repotted at once. Azaleas will now begin to break freely and show their flower buds ; water more liberally, and keep a little warmer. Tie out the plants into proper shape, the pyramidal being the best, and syringe occasionally. Calceolarias will need another shift into their blooming pots. Chinese Primroses, raised from seeds, may now have larger pots. Lilium giganteum will begin to grow. As soon as this is perceived, repot the plants if they require it, and place them in a rather warm, shady part of the house ; the object being to get an early growth. Japan Lilies may be potted now or later ; but the earlier they are plant- ed the earlier they bloom. Seeds may be planted now. Camellias will be in full bloom, and, by the end of the month, will commence growing. Now is the time to prune into shape straggling plants ; they bear the knife well, and should always be well pruned after blooming. Inarching may be done now. 96 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. Gloxinias and Achimenes — continue to pot for a succession of bloom. Bedding Plants of all kinds may be propagated, and young stock al- ready potted should be kept in a cool, airy part of the house near the glass. Annual Seeds. For early bloomirg now is a good time to plant many kinds, such as Stocks, Asters, Mignonette, Petunias, &-c. If potted off in March and hardened in frames in April, they may be planted in the open ground in May, and will be in bloom in June and July. Fuchsias should now be shaken out of the old soil and repotted; prune in the tops, and they will make fine specimens for blooming all the surn- mor. Cinerarias may have their last shift into their blooming pots. Fumigate often to keep down the green fly. Ferns should now be repotted, and be more freely watered. Lantanas, now beginning to grow, should be repotted and placed in the warmest part of the house. Heaths and Epacris may now be propagated from cuttings; young plants should be repotted. Hyacinths and other bulbs in frames should be brought into the house to bloom. Pansies, in pots, may be removed to a frame as soon as the weather will admit ; sow seeds for a succession. Roses, now coming into bloom, should be liberally watered occasionally with liquid manure. HoLLrHocKS may be propagated from cuttings. Greenhouse Plants of all kinds should be looked after, and such as require it repotted. vegetable department. In every garden of any extent, especially where there are no hot or green- houses, hotbeds are indispensable. Without them, many of the best vege- tables cannot be obtained in any great perfection, and all kinds may be forwarded from one to three months. Accordingly, no time should be lost in making one or more beds for the growth of various kinds. Commence by laying up fresh horse manure in a conical heap. As soon as it ferments freely turn it over, to more complete- ly prepare it. After having laid a week or ten days, the beds should be made up. Mark out the ground eighteen inches wider on all sides than the frame, and proceed to form the bed. At this season it should be at least two and a half feet high, and, if three, all the better. In the course of a week the rank heat will have subsided, and soil to the depth of six inches may be placed on the manure ; level it off, and plant seeds of any kinds of vegetables that are wanted, such as lettuce, radishes, tomatoes, egg plants, &c. Cover the sashes every night with mats or straw, to keep out frost. Air freely in the day, being careful not to draw the plants up too fast, which would materially injure them. Cucumbers may be planted in pots, to take the place of the other plants as soon as they are ready to remove into a fresh bed, or into the open ground in April or May. GRAFTING WITH FRUIT BUBS. Until within a few years, European works upon Horticul- ture have been our guide in almost all our gardening opera- tions, and we acknowledge with gratitude our indebtedness to this source for much of the information we now possess upon the growth and propagation of trees and plants. For a long time, Loudon's Encyclopedia of Gardening, comprehen- sive as it was in every department, formed a text-book for our cultivators. His knowledge of gardening throughout Eu- rope, from his frequent visits through France, Germany, Belgium, 315 that narrow routine of labor which his father's circumstances have made his destiny. Suppose this American and this Euro- pean to be endowed by nature with active and capable minds, and to feel about equally a passion for intellectual exertion. The American finds sufficient exercise for his mind in watch- ing the never-ceaseless fluctuations of commerce, and in calcu- lating his chances for turning them to his own advantage. His mind is entirely absorbed, lilie that of a chess-player, in the great game he is playing. The European, on the other hand, unable to employ his mind on his business, which is mere machine work, demanding but little mental exercise, is forced to think of other matters, in order to gratify his passion for intellectual exertion. Hence he may become a connoisseur in the arts, a historian, a philosopher, or a student of nature ; and in the end, except in a superficial knowledge of trade and commerce, he has a fuller mind, a more cultivated obser- vation, and is a more intelligent man than the American. These remarks may afford a key to the explanation of the lamentable want among our people of that sort of mental culture and observation, which leads men out of the city into the country, and causes them to prefer certain rural toils and recreations, to the billiard room and the card table. Hence, also, the small number of that class, so numerous in Europe, which we may denominate country gentlemen. We havfe among our farmers many fine specimens of such a class, also some among our retired merchants, and the sons of wealthy men, who have made the pursuits of agriculture a favorite employment. But we cannot reckon among these the majority of those who go out from the city to build villas in the country, who spend their days in the city, and who have few ideas beyond the limits of trade. The true country gentleman is one whose home is in the country, who lives on his own estate, and superintends its cultivation.^ When a man of wealth retires from business and occupies a rural residence, it cannot be expected, if he be advanced beyond the middle period of life, that he can be much interested in rural occupations. He must be a remarkable man who could so entirely divest himself of his old habits as to yield his mind with enthusi- 316 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. asm to the raising of animals and the cultivation of the soil. Hence the common remark that retired merchants and sea- captains make very poor agriculturists.* He who unites to a well-informed mind and a competency of the goods of fortune, arising either from his capital or his pursuits, a taste for the study of nature, a love for the science and practice of agriculture, and a reverence for the plough, is the model of a true country gentleman. When he builds, he does not try to dazzle the vulgar eye by an excessive osten- tation of taste ; but he endeavors to gather around his dwel- ling, beside all physical comforts, those pleasant appurtenances which are calculated to yield satisfaction to those members of his family, who have noble sentiments to be gratified. No man can have a full appreciation of this moral want in others, who is not himself gifted with a considerable share of sensi- bility. The man who cuts down a noble tree, which his fam- ily and his neighbors regard with delight, and has no better apology for his act than that it cumbers his ground, is a boor and a vandal. The country gentleman, though his hands are hardened by toil, and though he could not skilfully handle a brush or a pen, is both a painter and a poet ; and when the idle and dis- sipated are killing ennui over some game of skill, he may be found under his own trees, which are to him an academic grove, where the pursuits of science and taste render every hour he spends here productive of service to mankind. Every insect that flits by his path reads to him a lesson of some use- ful truth ; and not the song of a bird comes to his ear without adding a mite to his intelligence, as well as to his happiness. Such a man knows nothing of that tedium of life which is the torment of vacant minds in the country. Nature, whose funds are inexhaustible, can at all seasons open to him a page which he is deliglited to peruse. Hence, especially, if wealth affords him leisure, and the free disposal of his time, he must always be a happy man. *The most of our readers, however, have known exceptions lo this remark. The late Capt. Josiah Lovett, of Beverly, was a prominent example of one who, afler employing the first years of his life in commerce, ami having been a successful commander of a merchant ship, suddenly turned his alteniioD to rural pursuits, and became one of our must distinguished horticulturists. JULY. 317 However common-place the remark, it will bear repetition, that nature would make all men happy if they knew how to appreciate her gifts. They who think that nature's bounties are confined to the fruits of the earth, would reduce her to a mere green-grocer or confectioner. There is not a sentiment of the soul for which nature has not provided, as well as for our animal wants; but the corrupt are insensible to them, and the ignorant do not know how nor where to find them. To this ignorance and this insensibility may be attributed half the aversion of men to rural pursuits ; causing the youth to leave his paternal home in the country, to become a prisoner in a counting-room, or a slave in the great mart of commerce, exchanging the divine gifts of nature for a heap of gold or a bundle of papers. There is no more estimable citizen than a man of wealth who, if not directly engaged in works of benevolence, devotes his leisure, and a part of his revenue, to the improvement of the different branches of agriculture and of rural taste. So- ciety without such men would be like a landscape without trees. In the same category we should reckon the farmer who pursues his vocation, not as a mere piece of uninteUigent drudgery, but as a department of scientific labor ; whose hard hands are associated with a well-stored mind, and whose men- tal capacity has kept pace with the growth of his muscular frame. We may declaim in exalted terms about the " dig- nity of labor," and we may sing its praises until the hills and groves begin to think that Orpheus has come back to life, but no man can ennoble his ignorance and stupidity by working on the land, even though it were God's own soil. Still there are no pursuits which afford a capable young man the opportu- nity of so equally developing all his powers, both physical and mental, as those connected with the general departments of terra culture. Hence, although the farm turns out many men who are fit only for drudges, we find towering among them true country gentlemen, who unite the manners of a nobleman with the physical developments of an undegenerate yeomanry. 318 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. FLORICULTURAL NOTICES. Pelargoniums. — This beautiful flower still continues one of the most attractive features of the London exhibitions. At the recent shows in Regent's Park and at the Crystal Palace, the specimens exhibited were remarkably fine, and commanded, as they always do, great admiration. As showing what were the leading varieties, we copy the following account of them at the Royal Botanic Society's Show at Regent's Park, May 25th: Pelargoniums, like azaleas and roses, looked infinitely bet- ter under canvas than they did at the Crystal Palace ; as shown on Wednesday last, they were very efiective. In the nurserymen's class, Mr. Turner was first with a finely colored Etna, the large orange-blossomed Festus, Empress Eugenie, Carlos, Mazeppa, Admirable, Governor General, Lord Raglan, Sanspareil, delicatum. Fair Ellen and Matilda. Messrs. Dobson had Rosamond, Evelyn, Vestal, Gov. General, Fairest of the Fair, Rosalie, Bride, Admirable, Sanspareil, Starlight, Carlos, Eugene Duval. Messrs. Frazer sent Clara, Gov. Gen- eral, Una, delicatum, Admirable, Rosamond, Lucy, Sanspa- reil, Pallas, Gem of the West, Mr. Hoyle, Eclipse. Of Fancies, Mr. Turner sent large well bloomed plants in good variety, several of which were new. Of the latter were Crim- son Pet, Rosabella, Bridesmaid, Princess Royal, Mad. Rou- giere, and Carminata. Messrs. Frazer had Richard Cobden, Celestial, Conspicua formosissima. Mad. Sontag, and delica- tum. Mr. Windsor furnished Electa, Duchess d'Aumale, delicatum. Perfection, Lady Hume Campbell, and Cassandra. Isabella Gray Rose. — This very fine yellow rose, which was sent to England two or three years ago, and was exten- sively sold by the various nurserymen, did not meet the expectations of purchasers last year. This season, however, it has fully vindicated its character as the finest of yellow roses, so that our American cultivators may pride themselves upon having surpassed all the great French rose growers in producing the best deep yellow. We copy from the Garden- ers' Chronicle the following recent notice of this fine rose : — The Isabella Gray rose, a fine double yellow variety, about which and against which so much has been said (not by us), JULY. 319 is beginning to show her true character, and to vindicate her claim to stand in the first rank of beauty. In the county of Middlesex, in a double-walled enclosure containing about eighteen cubic feet of earth rich and black, with morsels of charcoal, and burnt clay, helped with a watering or two of liquid manure, and against the wall of a dwelling-house, facing the southwest, a rose specimen was planted in the sum- mer of 1857. In 1858 it grew away with much vigor, but showed no flowers. The pruning-knife was strictly prohibited. A fortnight since an expanded flower was observed, pinched by cold, but with unmistakable indications of beauty to come ; and another is already opening, although the season of bloom- ing would appear to be the autumn. [?] More success still has attended a lady's patience at Torquay, who sent the Editor, by post, a specimen of this rose, grown against a south wall just above the sea. The buds declined opening till a warm sun came. The rose is on its own roots, its third year, grew immensely last year, and has above ninety buds on it, most of which are rapidly expanding. " Hence," says Dr. Lindley, " it would seem that roses like Cloth of Gold and Isabella Gray demand four things : — 1, A 10 arm rich soil ; 2, a southern exposure ; 3, time ; 4, to be protected from the pruning-knife." Coming from South Carolina, we should suppose it would require warmth and sun to bloom it finely, and, if a noisette, protection from the pruning-knife. Our amateurs, who pos- sess this rose, will take a hint from the above. AVe have not yet seen a good specimen flower, but trust we may have the pleasure soon. 458. Rhodode'ndiion Bylesia^num, (Hybrid.) Byles's Rhododendron. • (Ericacege.) A half hardy or hardy shruti; growing ten feet hi^h; with white and crimson flowers. Illustra- tion Honicole, lS5b, pi. 1j5. This is a superb hybrid rhododendron, perfectly hardy in Belgium. The growth is handsome and erect, the foliage large, of a rich deep green, and the flowers, which are pro- duced in large conical compact heads, are white, deeply edged with brilliant carmine. It was raised by the brothers Byles of Gand, who have devoted many years to the hybridization 320 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. of the rhododendron, and have produced many charming va- rieties, of which this is the most remarkable, (i//. Horticole, January.) 459. Pd'nica grana^tum, var. Legrelli^e Ch. Lemaire. Mad. Legrelle's Pomegranate. (Punicege.) U. States. A greenhouse shrub; with orange and yellow flowers; increased by cuttings. Illustration Horti- Cole, 1858, pi. 156. The common double-flowering pomegranate is well known as a most beautiful plant, though rarely seen in collections. The present variety is remarkably fine, being of a fine orange color, edged with yellow, and very double. What is remarkable is, that this plant was sent from Illinois, about seven years ago, to Madam Legrelle d'Hanis, a distin- guished amateur of Antwerp, by a friend, who stated it was the only plant of the kind. It is a, very superb variety, and the his- tory of its origin would be interesting. It is another instance of the fine things raised by our amateur cultivators, which speedily find their way to Europe, where they are fully appre- ciated. (^III. Hort.^ 460. Bego'nia Prince Troubetzkoi Ch. Lemaire. Prince Troubetzkoi's Begonia. (Begoniacese.) Hybrid. A stove plant; growing two feet high; with pink flowers; blooming in summer; grown in turfy loam, leaf mould and sand; increased by cuttings. Illustration Horticole, 1858, pi. 158. A magnificent ornamental-foliaged variety, obtained in the garden of Prince Troubetzkoi, between B. picta and B. xan- thina. The leaves are ample, of handsome form, with a ground color of rich deep green, shaded with dull red, and edged with crimson ; the under surface of the leaves is lighter green with crimson nerves, the whole being covered with scar- let hairs, producing a brilliant and showy effect. (///. Hort.^ February.) 461. Bego^nia Mad. Wagner Ch. Lemaire. Madam Wag- ner's Begonia. (Begoniaceae.) Hybrid. A stove plant; growing one foot high ; with pink flowers ; appearing in summer ; increased by cuttings ; grown in leaf mould, ioam and sand. 111. Horticole, pi. 161, 1858. Another of the beautiful ornamental-foliaged hybrids, the upper surface of the leaves being green and silver, exquisitely marbled, with a crimson edging and crimson stems, and the JULY. 321 under side crimson and the palest green : though not so strik- ing as the B. Rex, in softness and brilliancy of tint it is very remarkable. It was raised in the garden of Prince Troubetz- koi. (///. Hort., 1858.) 562. WiSTE^RiA siNE'NSis, VAR. ALBO Fortune. White-flow- ered Chinese Wisteria. (Leguminosae.) China. A hardy climber; ?rowin? twenty feet high; with white flowers; appearing in May; increased by layers; grown in good rich soil. 111. Horticole, pi. 11)6, 1658. This is the white-flowered variety of the well known and beautiful Wisteria, now becoming more common, and so at- tractive that it should be found in every garden, large or small. The white variety, though not so showy as the purple, forms an admirable contrast, and the two twining together over a trellis or arbor, are truly charming objects. It has not yet, that we are aware of, flowered in our gardens. (^III. Hort., 1858.) 563. Petunias, new varieties. 1. Erlinde ; 2. striata su- PERBA ; 3. Shmuck des Huithales ; 4. Iphigenia ; 5. impe- RIALIS PURPUREA PLENISSIMA ; 6. MURILLO ; 7. AzORA ; 8. Bella. 111. Horticole, pi. 167, 1858. The Petunia is becoming the popular flower : with the in- troduction of new and beautiful double varieties, as well as the single ones, it now claims a prominent place in every garden. Easily cultivated, growing in any soil, and blooming all the summer, it has all the claims to popularity and well deserves attention. The new double varieties are of immense size and brilliant colors, almost equalling a camellia in form. The group before us contains white, blush, crimson, red, lilac and bluish-colored flowers, all raised from the old imperialis, impregnated with other elegant varieties, by M. Sieekman, fils., of Weimar. The French and English cultivators also have many fine double varieties, which we hope will soon become common in our gardens. (///. Hort., 1858.) 564. Caladiums, new varieties. 1. Caladium Chantini ; 2. C. Verschaffelti ; 3. C. Argyretes Nob. (Araceae.) Para. Stove plan's; growing one foot high ; with spotted or variegated leaves; increased by division of the root; grown in leaf soil, peat and sand. 111. Horticole, pi l65, Ib58. VOL. XXV. — NO. VII. 21 322 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. The Caladiums, introduced by M. Chantin from Brazil, are the most remarkable for their striking foliage that have yet been seen ; as beautiful as the old kinds are, they cannot compare with these. C. Chantinf has large leaves, with a ground color of deep green, superbly veined with crimson, with numerous spots of the same color, edged with white. No description can convey an idea of the markings, which resem- ble mosaic work. C. Verschaffelti has large bright green leaves, slightly dotted with crimson ; and C. Argyrites, small pale green leaves, freckled and spotted with white. As orna- mental-foliaged plants, nothing can excel them. (III. Hort., 1858.) tutxdil Sotices. A New Mode of Striking Cuttings. — M. Loiseau, France, recom- mends that the usual method of striking cuttings should be altered. When, he observes, a cutting is put in perpendicularly, the sap, whose natural tendency is to rise, is expended in pushing forward a new bud instead of forming a root. But if a cutting is laid horizontally, or even with its lower end higher than the upper, that is not the case ; the sap prefers to move towards the higher end, or at all events is evenly distributed between the two extremities. This causes the callus to form so rapidly that if the cut- tings are put in a warm place eight or ten days are enough to secure its formation, or even that of roots. Autumn-struck cuttings taken off a little before the sap ceases to move, and treated in this manner, form their callus so quickly, that they are ready (for planting out before winter. In winter it is necessary to put in cuttings in a gentle heat, {une couche tiMe,) or beneath leaves deep enough to keep off frost, and even then a callus will be found to have formed by spring .time. ^s for cuttings taken off in May they must have more heat, such for in- stance as is afforded by a hotbed or a hothouse, and they will then take in many cases in a few days. — [Gard. Chron., 1859.) Herbaceous Grafting. — M. Loiseau also states that Herbaceous Grafting may be practised on woody plants, any time after the middle of May, without taking any greater precaution than is demanded in ordinary ^raftin^ — at least in the case of apples, pears, and the like, [fruits a pipin.) Grafts put on in this manner he finds grow so fast that they soon overtake the spring grafts ; that a better junction is formed between the scion and the stock ; that as it is immaterial whether the bark will run or not it may i)e, practised all the Bummer long without any particular precautions. He JULY. 323 also adds that if done in the course of the summer it has this great advan- tage over budding, that you may have shoots twelve or fourteen inches long the first summer, even if the operation is not performed before the 1st of August. Another advantage which he finds in herbaceous grafting, consists in being able, when spring grafting misses, to graft over and over again at a late period ; a power extremely convenient when old branches that have been headed back have to be grafted. — (76.) TROPicoLUM LoBBi. — Many of the TropsBolums are useful and ornamen- tal as winter-flowering plants, and where great quantities of cut flowers are required in winter, they will, by-and-by, be considered indispensable. From three plants of Lobbi, four feet high and two feet in diameter, we cut hun- dreds of flowers every week — a great handful every day, from December to the end of March. Being of a brilliant scarlet, the flowers mix up and contrast beautifully with those of Deutzia gracilis, white Azalea, &c., in small bouquets. At the end of March we allowed many of the flowers to run to seed, and since it has been gathered the plants have recommenced to grow most vigorously, and probably will be. in a short time, one mass of bloom, dazzling to the eye. Florists who supply the market with cut flow- ers will find that scarlet Tropseolums will amply remunerate them for the little attention they require. Plants do best from seed, but they will answer from cuttings. June and July are the best months to sow the seed, or pur- chase plants for flowering in late autumn and winter. They like a rich soil, and require one or two shifts before they are put into 13-inch pots, and of course a little artificial warmth in winter is necessary to keep the plant in continual flower. As the blossoms of Triomphe de Gand and others are larger and quite as bright a scarlet, they may be perhaps by some consid- ered better than Lobbi. We are trying several varieties as out-door plants, and shall cross them with the old Canary Creeper, and vice versa. — {lb.) Cineraria amelloides. — This old-fashioned but useful plant is highly recommended by a writer in La Revue Horticole as an excellent bedder. The writer says : " I have cultivated it many years without attaching to it the importance that it deserves: but at last the thought struck me to try it as a bedding-out plant, and for this purpose I struck a quantity of cuttings (which root easily) and planted them out in a bed, and by their beautiful and long-continued bloom they have well rewarded me for my trouble." iossip of tlje P0n% Strawberries in California.— Strawberries were coming into the market not only by the thousand pound lots, but by the ton,— large, rich and fine, — and the price had come down within the reach of all.. British 324 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTURE. Queens were selling at wholesale at 10 to ISjJ cents the pound, and Hovey's Seedling commanded 12i to 15 cents. D. E. Hough, of Oakland, has raised some enormous White Chilian strawberries, weighing about 10 to the pound, which were selling at 25 cents each, to be sent East by the steamer. They are preserved in glass jars. — [California Farmer, June 3.) The White Chilian is one of the parents of all our large strawberries. — Ed. Japan Lilies. — While many florists in central New York winter their Japan lilies in the house, in pots, others keep them out of doors, I find them hardy, if covered with four or five inches of leaves. — A. D. G. The Lantanas are shy bloomers with many, but I succeed by keeping them in pots, and plunging them in the dryest and hottest part of my gar- den.—A. D. G. The Washingtonia gigantea, or Big Tree of California. — Some time last season, a grove of the Washingtonia was discovered in the Yosemite Valley, now called the "Great Mariposa Forest." At the time, we intend- ed to copy the account of them given by Mr. Warren, the editor of the California Farmer, in his paper ; but we had not the space to do so, and overlooked it afterwards. In a recent number of the Farmer, the same ac- count has been republished, and we now copy Mr. Warren's statement of this wonderful grove, as it appears in his paper of May 20th : — Although we have before published the sketch of the Mariposa forest, we feel called upon to publish a few extracts, to show its grandeur, and to secure that attention to it from travellers which it deserves. The following we extract from former notes, when, with a party of four friends, we gave time to the measurement of these giants of the forest : — After about three hours of up hill work we reached the slope where we found Rambler's tree, near a bubbling spring of water. We halted at the spring to refresh ourselves with a cup of its cooling waters. After refreshing ourselves at the spring we commenced, as we had de- signed when starting on this enterprise, the survey and measurement of what we believed from report must be a group or forest of trees greater than those of the Calaveras, and we had come prepared with measuring lines for that purpose. The first tree we measured was " Rambler," and measuring it three and a half feet from the ground, found it eighty feet in circumference ; close at the ground 102 feet ; and, carefully surveyed, 250 feet high. Tree No. 2, nearly fifty feet in circumference. No. 3, at. the spring, ninety feet, three and a half feet from the ground, and 102 at the ground, and 300 feet high. Nos. 4 and 5 we call the Sisters, measuring eighty-two and eighty-seven feet in circumference and 225 feet high. Many of the trees had lost por- tions of their tops by the storms that had swept over them. After measur- ing the first five trees we divided our company, two taking the southeast direction, and two with myself the northerly, and keeping record of each tree measured, which resulted as follows ; JULY. 325 The whole number measured was 155, and these comprise but about half the group, which we estimate cover about two to three hundred acres, and lie in a triangular form. Some of the trees first meet your view in the vale of the mountain, thence rise southeasterly and northwesterly till you find yourself gazing upon the neighboring points, some ten miles from you, whose tops are still covered with their winter snows. It is estimated to be some six or ten miles from the dividing line, and the eye can gaze upon a world upon either side of the ridge. The following are the number and measurement of the trees. Our party measured none less than forty feet, and Rambler measured as ourselves only those of beauty of symmetry less than forty feet, and a few only. Those measured by his party are as follows : — Number Circumference of trees. in feet. 1 tree - - - 102 Number Circumference of trees. in feet. 1 tree - - - 59 Number Circumference of trees. in feet. 2 trees each - 47 1 tree - - - 97 1 tree - - 58 3 trees each - 46 1 tree - - 92 3 trees each 57 2 trees each - 45 3 trees each 76 1 tree - - 56 1 tree - - - 44 1 tree - - 72 3 trees each 55 2 trees each - 43 3 trees each 70 2 trees each 54 2 trees each - 42 1 tree - - 68 1 tree - - 53 1 tree - - - 40 1 tree - - 66 1 tree - - 51 1 tree - - - 35 1 tree - - 63 4 trees each 50 2 trees each . 36 3 trees each 62 6 trees each 49 2 trees each - 32 2 trees each 60 5 trees each 48 1 tree - - - 28 The aim was to see •if we could not find one hundred trees over fifty feet in circumference, which was more than both parties accomplished, as will be seen. Our party measured as follows: No. of trees. Circum. No. of trees. Circum. No. of trees. Circum. 2 trees each 100 4 trees each - 65 1 tree - - - 49 1 tree - - 82 2 trees each - 63 1 tree - - - 47 1 tree - - 80 1 tree - - - 61 1 tree - - - 46 2 trees each 77 10 trees each - 60 2 trees each - 45 1 tree - - 76 3 trees each - 59 1 tree - - - 43 3 trees each 75 5 trees each from 58 7 trees each - 44 1 tree - - 72 down to - - 52 4 trees each - 42 2 trees each 69 2 trees each - 51 3 trees each - 41 3 trees each 67 6 trees each - 50 8 trees each - 40 1 tree - - 64 Some of these were in groups of three, four, and even five, seeming to spring from the seeds of one cone. We measured none less than forty feet. Several of these glorious trees we have, in association with our friend, named. The one near the spring we call the Fountain Tree, as it is used as the source of the refreshment. Two trees, measuring ninety and nine- ty-seven feet in circumference, were named the Two Friends, No description we can give could convey to our readers the wonder and awe with which one is impressed, when standing beneath these giant trees ; 326 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. , a feeling creeps upon you of inexpressible reverence for these trees, and one does not wish to speak aloud, but rather be silent and think. Sfltidits. BELMONT farmers' CLLB. Great Strawberry Exhibition and Festival. — Belmont, formerly part of West Cambridge and Watertown, has long been famous for its mar- ket gardens. Finely located at the base of the highlands in that vicinity, it is from thence that the Boston market has long been supplied with the earliest lettuce, the first green peas, the first cucumbers, the first potatoes, and many other vegetables, as well as the first strawberries. The cultiva- tors are intelligent and independent, and though none of their grounds are very extensive, what they do they do with skill and energy, not surpassed by any part of the country. Recently — last year, we believe — a Farmers' Club was organized in Bel- mont, and with so much success that they furnished themselves with a fine library of all the best horticultural and agricultural books, and have had meetings once a week during the past winter, for the discussion of various topics of interest to the members. The proceedings of one of the most important of these meetings — the discussion upon the strawberry — has already been reported in our pages (117) by Mr. Underwood, the indefati- gable Secretary, to whom much of the success of the Club, and particularly the success of the strawberry exhibition, is due. Cultivated as the strawberry is here with so much skill, though not on a very extensive scale, — few individuals having over an acre in this fruit, — it was decided by the Club to hold an exhibition of strawberries, principally frorti the pleasure of an interesting meeting, and to show their neighbors and friends the fine specimens which they supply in quantity to the Boston market. This exhibition was fixed for Saturday, June 25th, and an invita- tion was extended to us, as Hovey's* Seedling, the pet of the cultivators, would be shown in fine condition. We need not say that we readily ac- cepted the opportunity to attend a gatliering of this kind, if for no other purpose than to see the results of the labors of men of whom we have known and heard so much. The exhibition was held in the vestry of the Unitarian Church in the vil- lage, and a table extending the length of the room, about thirty feet long and four feet wide, was filled with one of the most magnificent displays of the strawberry we had ever seen, and as to quantity and average quality, we hesitate not to say, the best ever made in this country or in any country. Thirty-six baskets of fruit, containing from two to four quarts each, filled the table, all of remarkable size and freshness, being just gathered from the vines. A very much larger number of kinds have been shown before the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, but never in such quantities. JULY. 8^7 Conspicuous above all others were Hovey's Seedling, whose merits the Belmont farmers seem now fully to appreciate, though ten years ago they would scarcely look at anything but the old Wood and Early Virginia. These are now becoming among the things that were. They understand the management of the Hovey — they have the genuine article — and they supply the Boston market with it in abundance, and at a price nearly dou- ble that of other sorts. Such an exhibition of strawberries by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society would be of nearly as much interest as their annual show : indeed, we know of nothing more attractive than a basket of such strawberries as ■were shown at Belmont. The exhibition was held in the evening, and the room was crowded with visitors, several of them from Boston, until the close. We congratulate the members upon their success. All the fruit was shown in neat baskets, and the tables were ornamented with several elegant bouquets. Below is a full report of the exhibition, which, we doubt not, will be read with deep interest by all who wish to know what are the best strawberries: Class I. Best three quarts, open fpr all varieties : — For the best, to J. O. Wellington, $5 for Hovey's Seedling. For the next, to W. H. Locke, $3 for Hovey's Seedling. For the next, to Chas. Stone, $2 for Hovey's Seedling. For the next, to J. S. Crosby, $1 for Hovey's Seedling. Class H. Best two quarts of Hovey's Seedling : — For the Uest, to David Chenery, $3. For the next, to George S. Adams, ^. For the next, to A. Simpson, $1. Class HI. Best two quarts Brighton Pine : — For the best, to G. W. Hill, #3. For the next, to J. S. Crosby, $2. For the next, to W. H. Locke, $1. Class IV. Best two quarts other than the above sorts : — For the best, to W. H. Locke, #2.50 for Jenney Seedling. For the next, to T. S. Hittinger, $2 for Jenny Lind. For the next, to E Locke, #L50 for Jenney Seedling. For the next, to W. J. Underwood, $1 for Burgess Seedling. Gratuities. — To S. Chenery, $1 for Hovey's Seedling; to T. Frost, $1 for Hovey's Seedling. At the close of the meeting, the prize baskets were sold at auction, for the benefit of the Society. The basket of three quarts of Hovey's Seedling, which obtained the first prize, sold for $6.50 ! The next for $S ; the next for $2.^0, and the next for $S. The basket of two quarts of Hovey's, which obtained the first prize, sold for $3 ; the next for $2.75, and the next for $2. The prize bas- ket of two quarts of Brighton Pine sold for $1.75 ; the next for 02, and the next for $L75. These prices will show somewhat the remarkable charac- ter of the fruit exhibited, as an abundance of superior berries could be purchased among the market cultivators for 50 cents a quart. We do not 328 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. think a basket of Hovey's, containing only three quarts, ever sold for a higher price than $0.50. The inauguration of this strawberry exhibition was attended with great success, and we doubt not another year it will be repeated. Its influence upon the cultivation of this delicious fruit in the neighborhood must be highly beneficial. As an additional evidence of the superiority of Hovey's Seedling over all other strawberries, the opinion of such successful cultiva- tors will be hailed with pleasure by all who are in doubt as to the selection of kinds. AMERICAN INSTITUTE. FARMERs' CLUB. At a meeting of the Farmers' Club, June 20, Mr. Wm. R. Prince made the following statement as to the selection of Strawberries : — The great point in all culture is economy and its results, and the true test of the strawberry is farm culture, with or without cutting off the run- ners. Now, gentlemen, I hold myself responsible, in the fullest sense, for all I assert, and I call upon Mr. Huntsman, chairman of your committee, to correct me if I make any mistakes. The following varieties I consider the best for field culture, where the plants are allowed to cover the entire ground, without further labor, thereby saving extra expense and producing much greater crops, as the whole of the ground is occupied. All are pistillates : — Scarlet Magnate — the heaviest of all strawberries. Diadem — splendid scarlet, produces double the crop of Wilson's Albany. Mr. Martimus Bergen of New Jersey stated that he did not deem it pos- sible for so great a crop of fruit to grow on a given space of ground as he saw growing of this kind. Elypse — early, bright scarlet, on upright stalks, clean and beautiful. Minerva — very estimable in quality, produces more than twice Wilson's Albany. Imperial Scarlet — large, bright scarlet, firm for market, upright stalks. Perfumed Pine — seedling of Burr's Pine, obtuse cone, very large, bright scarlet, sweet, juicy, high flavor, plant vigorous, very productive, com- bines more valuable qualities than any other berry. Hovey — qualities well known. Malvina — same qualities as Hovey, but more productive, brighter color, better flavor, and one week earlier. Globose Scarlet — large, rounded, very productive. Florence — very large, conical, splendid scarlet, fine flavor, vigorous, very productive, valuable. Prince's Globose — a late variety, very large, scarlet, moderate flavor, very productive and vigorous, ripens twelve days after the general crop, and therefore valuable as a late market fruit. The following are the six best Staminate varieties for field culture, in stools with the runners cut off", thus entailing however additional expense* besides leaving much of the ground unoccupied : — JULY. 329 Scarlet Prize — very larofe, fine flavor, bright scarlet, productive. Wilson's Albany — qualities well known. Sirius — monstrous size, light orange scarlet, splendid. Barry's Extra — fine flavor, light scarlet. Primate — each flower produces a fruit, bright crimson, moderate flavor, showy for market. Montrose — very large, splendid, productive, estimable. Varieties preferable for families, being of finest flavor — Le Baron, La- dies' Pine, McAvoy's Superior, Sirius, Longworth's Prolific, Ward's Favor- ite, Globose Swainstone, Fragrant Scarlet, Hooker, Imperial Crimson, Minerva, Scarlet Prize, Perfumed Pine. P^asscicljusetts IforticiiItarHl Sotktjj. Saturday, Jan. 1, 1859. — In the report of this meeting, which was given in our last number, we omitted the Finance Report, of which we now pre- sent an abstract : — Receipts for 1858. Balance from last year, - _ _ . Dividends and interest, - _ _ . Rent of Store, Hall, &c., - - - . Receipts from Mount Auburn, - . _ Receipts from Monthly Exhibitions, - - - " " Annual Exhibition, - . - Assessments, - - . _ . Taxes returned and other receipts, - - _ Cash borrowed, - - - . _ Payments for 1858. Taxes, interest and insurance, - - - Premiums and gratuities, - - _ _ . Salaries, ._---.. Printing, binding, «Sz.c. - - _ - . Repairs, expenses, &c. - - _ _ . Annual Exhibition, ------ Cash borrowed, ------ Josiah Bradlee mortgage paid in full, - - - Cash on hand, ---_._ $11,541 14 Feb. 5. — At this meeting the Committee to settle with Mount Auburn Cemetery made their report as follows : — Total sale of lots after deducting $1400 for expenses, - 23,034 48 Society's proportion of one quarter, - - - - 5,758 67 397 12 1024 00 2947 50 4799 67 155 85 308 50 700 00 224 00 984 50 $11,541 14 657 80 2505 00 500 00 235 87 1533 90 973 97 2000 00 3027 50 107 10 330 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTURE. One half of the Society's proportion ($2879 34) was paid on account of the recent arrai:gement made with the Cemetery for land, and the other half ($2879 34) paid into the treasury. Saturday, Feb. 19. — Exhibited. Flowers: From Jona. French, Epacris ardentissima, coruscans, grandiflora, impressa alba, magnifica, Tauntonien- sis. From Wm. Wales, Azaleas decora, exquisita, rubella supreme, Bealii, preeclara. From James Nugent, six Ericas in four varieties, Amaryllis au- lica, three hand bouquets, and cut flowers of Erica. From. M. Trautman, two Epacris, four Ericas, among them a beautiful plant of E. propendens tubiflora ; one Elychrysum argenteum. From A. Apple, three parlor bou- quets, three hand do. From A. Bowditch dz. Son, Polyanthus Lord Raglan, Victoria, Eugenia, Napoleon III,, Sir C. Napier, Prince of Wales, all very beautiful new varieties. From Wm. C. Strong, Azaleas Murrayana, Duch- ess of Wellington, Duke of Wellington, Alba magna, Rosa magna, coro- nata, exquisita variegata (new); Gloxinias, Heliodorus and Miranda, and a fine collection of cut flowers. From Hovey & Co., six Azaleas, viz.. Seedling white, Madame Miellez, Watsonia, exquisita, coronata, and Duke of Devonshire ; also six Ericas, six Epacris, and very fine cut flowers of Camellias, and bouquets. From E. S. Rand, Jr., Acacia longifolia, Vieussiuxia glaucopis, Hovea Celsii, a fine specimen; Cypripedium insigne, a large plant; Cantua bicolor, fine. Fine displays of plants and flowers were also made by G. Evers and T. G. Whytal, but no written list was furnished the chairman. AWARD OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES. Azaleas. — For the best six, to Wm. Wales, $10. For the next, to W. C. Strong, $8. For the next, to Hovey & Co., $6. Ericas. — For the best six, to Hovey & Co., 08. Epacris. — For the best six, to Jonathan French, $5. For the next, to Hovey & Co., $3. Parlor Bouquets. — For the best two, to Hovey & Co., $3. For the next, to A. Apple, $2. Hand Bouquets. — For rhe best two, to J. Nugent, $2. For the next, to T. G. Whytal, $1. May 27.— Exhibited. Flowers : From Wm. H. Spooner, Jr., 33 blooms tulips. From Miss E. M. Harris, one basket flowers. Gratuities awarded.— To E. A. Story, for hawthorns, $2; to Miss E. M. Harris, for basket, $1. Saturday, March ]2. — Exhibited. Flowers: From E. S. Rand, Txia viridiflora, Maxillaria sp. Rhododendron formosum. From G. G. Hubbard, Cinerarias, Azaleas, and other cut flowers. Gratuities awarded.— To G. G. Hubbard, $1. March 26. — Exhibited. Flowers : From E. S. Rand, Jr., a new Orchid, and Babiana rubra cyanea. From Hovey & Co., Meyenia erecta, new, very beautiful ; Geranium Rollinson's Unique ; Gloxinias, new Carnations, Clematis Sophia, Petunia Louis Van Houtte, good ; one Azalea Criterion, JULY. 331 Camellia seedlings. From T. G. Whytal, Passiflora Imperatrice Euge- nia, fine. April 1. — An adjourned meeting of the Society. The President in the chair. Amos Smith, J. J. H. Gregory and Tho's Walsh were elected members. Adjourned one month to May 7. Jlpril 16. — Exhibited. Flowers : From A. Bowditch & Son, Roses, Acacias, Ixias, Geraniums, Dielytra. From E. S. Rand, Jr., Erica alba re- flexa. From Barnes & Washburn, Rhyncospermum jasminoides. From T. G. Whytal, two seedling monthly pinks, good. Gratuities awarded. — To A. Bowditch & Son, for display, $2; to T. G. Whytal, for pinks, $1 ; to Barnes & Washburn, for Rhyncosper- mum, $1. May 7. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. J. W. Pratt read an article from the Horticulturist, reflecting upon the character of the Society, and on his motion a committee of five were chosen to take the subject into consideration. Messrs. S. Walker, G. W. Pratt, M. P. Wilder, J. S. Cabot and B. V. French were chosen the committee. The same committee, on motion of Mr. Wm. A. Harris, were requested to consider the propriety of publishing a Monthly Journal, to be edited by members of the Society, to be considered as the organ of the Society, and furnished to members free of charge. W. L. Clark, Boston, was elected a member. Adjourned to June 4. May 7. — Exhibited. Flowers : From A. Bowditch & Son, a fine dis- play of Roses. From Wm. H. Spooner, fine Hyacinths. From Wm. C. Strong, a fine display of Pelargoniums in pots ; two fine new Fuchsias. From J. A. Kenrick, Magnolia conspicua, do. Soulangiana. From Mrs. B. Bruce, Brookline, a fine display of hardy herbaceous plants. Gratuities awarded. — To Mrs. Benj. Bruce, $\ ; to A. Bowditch & Son, $2 ; to Wm. C. Strong, $3 ; to J. A. Kenrick, $2 ; to Wm. H. Spooner, Jr., $2. May 14. — Exhibited. Flowers : From A. Bowditch & Son, a fine dis- play of Roses. From Dr. E, G. Kelley, Newburyport, Berberis, Mahonia, Purple Beech, Magnolia Soulangiana, and conspicua hybrida. From Mrs. B. Bruce, Trillium erectum, Dodecatheon medea (varieties), Corydalis white, Uvularia grandiflora, &c. Gratuities awarded. — To Mrs Benj. Bruce, $1 ; to A. Bowditch & Son, #2. June 4. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. W. L. Flint was elected a corresponding member. Adjourned one month to July 1. Exhibited. — Flowers: From G. Evers, Clematis lanuginosa, Diosma cordifolia, Cuphea Danielsiana, Berberis Bealii and japonica, new plants, Erica ventricosa seedling, and Fuchsia Etoile du Nord ; cut flowers in great variety. From E. S. Rand, Roses, Iris, Rhododendrons, Paeonies, &c- From M. P. Wilder, a fine collection of Tree Pseonies. From Hovey & Co., six Pelargoniums, superbly in flower, of the following vars. : Perfectioix, Evening Star, Beauty Supreme, Eulalie, Zoe, and Helen Faucet. 332 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. AWARD OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES. Shrubby Peonies. — To M. P. Wilder, for the best six, as follows : — Banksi«, Walnen, Carli, Grand Due de B ide, Violacea superba, and Leopold, $5. Gratuities. — To Jas. Nugent, for bouquets, $1 ; to Jas. Murray, for the same, $1 ; to J. A. Kenrick, for hardy Azaleas, $2 ; to G. Evers, for display, $3; to Mrs. B. Bruce, for the same, $1 ; to A. Bowditch, E. S. Rand and E. A. Story, for the same, $2 each ; to T. G. Whytal and J. Murray, for display, $3 each ; to Hovey & Co., for Pelargoniums, #4 ; to G. Evers, for plants, #2. June 18. — Exhibited, Flowers : From Hovey & Co , twenty varieties of Pseonies, choice Pinks, Verbena Inimitable, the beautiful Mey^niaerec- ta, two new Gloxinias, and a double Achimenes, new. From W. C. Strong, Fuchsias Antagonist, Little Bo Peep, very fine, Imperialis flore pleno. Fair- est of the Fair, all fine plants ; Gloxinias Claude Lorraine, Corinne, Paul Veronese, Mount Parnassus ; Pelargoniums Madam Lemcechez, fine, and Countess of Devon ; Gardenia citridora, Gesneria cinnabarina, first exhib- ited, fine. E. S. Rand, W. B. Carter, A. Apple, G. Evers, E. A. Story, J. Nugent, Mrs. B. Bruce and others sent fine collections of cut flowers, &c. From M. P. Wilder several varieties of Peeonies. The President also contributed, as usual, a superb display of various perennials, Pseonies and other flowers: the Pseonies included festiva, pro- lifera tricolor, and other fine sorts. Mr. J. A. Kenrick sent a magnificent flower of the Magnolia macrophylla, of enormous size. award of premiums and gratuities. Herbaceous Pjeonies. — For the best, to Hovey &, Co., for purpurea superba, violacea plena, Festiva maxima, Ne Plus Ultra, Madame Benard, Dr. Bretonneau, Festiva, sulphurea, Hericartiana and Gran- diflora nivea plena, $5. For the next, to M. P. Wilder, for Edulis superba, E. alba, Pottsii, sulphurea, Festiva, Queen Victoria, BuyckiV, chrysanthemflora, and twenty others, $4. Herbaceous Plants. — For the best, to A. Apple, $6. For the next, to Barnes & Washburn, $4. For the next best, to E. S. Rand, #2. Gratuities. — To G. Evers, for display, $3 ; to J. Murray, for the same, ^3; to J. A. Kenrick, for Magnolia, $1 ; to A. Bowditch, for display, to J. Nugent, for the same, #2 ; to W. C. Strong, for the same, $3 ; to W. C. Strong, for plants, $3 ; to E. A. Story, for display, $1 ; to W. E. Carter and E. S. Rand, for the same, $2 each ; to Hovey & Co. for plants, $2 ; to Miss Harris, for bouquets, $2. Rose Show, June 23, 24 and 25. — The annual exhibition of Roses was held on the 23d, 24th and 25th of June. The weather during the week was rainy and cold, and the roses were not in so forward a condition as was expected, many of the finest varieties not JULY. 333 being in flower. A few warm days were needed to bring them out in per- fection. The show, however, was very good, particularly in the Hybrid Perpetuals, which were better than they had ever before been exhibited. We are glad to see that more attention is given to the culture of this very beautiful class. The Hall was nearly filled with the various stands of roses, though there were no competitors for several of the prizes. The President, Mr. Breck, made a fine display of Moss, Hybrid Perpetual and June varieties, among them some superior flowers. Moss roses were shown in great variety by Messrs. Hovey & Co., C. Copeland, M. P. Wilder, and others. Tender roses were very fine, contributed by D. Murray, C. Copeland, G. Evers, Hovey & Co., and others. Among so many fine varieties it would be difli- cult to particularize all the good ones, but we cannot omit to name a few which stood out conspicuous among the mass. There were, among the June roses, Shakspeare, Amiable, Nelly, Paul Perras, Chas. Fouquier, Perle de Panachees (striped), Vandael, and Chenedole. Among the Bourbons, Gloire de Dijon, which is also classed with the Tea roses by some cultivators, hav- ing a Tea odor. In the Hybrid Perpetuals, Gen. Jacqueminot, Jules Mar- gottin. Lord Raglan, and Triomphe de Paris. Messrs. Hovey & Co. contributed a variety of roses. Among the Hy- brid Perpetuals were Gen. Jacqueminot, Mad. de Cambaceres, Lord Raglan, Jules Margottin, Geant de Betailles, Pauhne Lanzezeur, &c. Among the Bourbons, Gloire de Dijon, Dr. Lepestre, Francis Henricq, &c. The stand of 30 June roses contained the foUovving varieties: — Provence, Shakspeare, Fanny Parrisot, Bizarre Marbre, Perle de Pana- chees, Amiable, L'hopital, Sir W. Scott, Boula de Nanteuil, Latour I'Au- vergne, Brabant de la Fontaine ; Hy. China, Paul Perras, Chas. Fouquier, Mandarin, Marjolin, Vandael, Mad. Plantier, Thurette, Chen6dole, Coup6 d'Hebe, Columbienne, Bizarre de la China, Adele Becar, Louis Philippe ; Alba, Venus, Joasine, Louise Leker, Mad. Hardy, Margaret Mary ; Persian Yellow. Also, 28 var. of Moss roses, among which were I'obscurite Nuits d' Young, Gloire des Mosseuses, Marie de Blois, Mad. Rochelambert, &,c. Five var. of Running roses, and Lamarque, Souvenir de la Malmaison, Solfitaire, and other lender varieties. 24 var. of Hybrid Perpetuals. From M. P. Wilder, 10 varieties of Moss roses, including a great dis- play of Princess Adelaide, Old Moss, Luxembourg, and Ebloussant; also, 15 varieties Hybrid Perpetuals, and June roses in variety — among the latter, Nelly, Duchess de Brabant, and other very fine sorts. I'rom G. Evers, a fine display of Hybrid Perpetual and tender roses. Mr. Evers's stand of 25 perpetual roses contained the following: Alex. Backmetoff, Baronne Pre- vost, Lion des Combats, Mrs. Elliot, Coupe d'Hebe, Eugene Sue, Comtesse Egemont, La Reine, La Gracious, Prince Albert, Mad. Plantier, La Favor- ite, Eliz. Roae, Naomie, Comtesse Duchatelle, Duchess of Sutherland, Edward Jesse, Prince Chipetouzekoff, Sydonie, Antigone, Marquis Boccella, Baron Halley de Claparaud, Dr. Marx. From A. Apple, Hardy Perpetual and June roses in variety. From W. 334 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. C. Stronff, roses in variety, pelargoniums and other cut flowers, and some very fine fuchsias in pots. From G. G. Hubbard, a fine display of roses. From C. Copeland, 24 var. Moss roses, and fine collections of Hybrid Per- petual and tender roses. W. J. Underwood, W. Heustis, F. Parkman and others had fine collections of Hybrid Perpetuals. In tha absence of the Report of the Chairman, which has not yet been published, we are unable to give the names of the flowers in all the prize stands. AWARD OF PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES. Hardt June Roses. — Class I. For the best thirty, toHovey & Co., $8. For the next best, to A. Apple, ^. Class II. For the best twenty, to M. P. Wilder, $7. For the next, to James Nugent, $6. Class III. For the best twelve, to M. P. Wilder, $5. Hardy Perpetual Roses. — Class V. For the best twenty-five, to G. Evers, $7. For the next, to A. Apple, $5. For the next, to Hovey & Co., f 4. Class. VI. For the best fifteen, to M. P. Wilder, $5, For the next, to T. G. Whytal, f3. Class VII. For the best ten, to C. Copeland, $4. For the next, to Warren Heustis, $3. For the next, to W. J. Underwood, $2. Moss Roses.— Class VIII. For the best display of named varieties, to Hovey &, Co., #4. For the next best, to C. Copeland, $2. Bourbon Roses. — Class IX. For the best display of named varieties, to Hovey & Co., $3. For the next, to W. J. Underwood, $2. Large Bouquets of Roses. — Class X. For the best four, to G. Evers, $'5. For the next, to J. Murray, $4. Tender Roses.— Class XL For the best display of varieties, not less than ten, to G. Evers, $5. For the next, to J. Murray, $4. For the next, to M. Trautman, $ 3. Gratuities. — To M. P. Wilder, for display, $7. To W. C. Strong, for the same, $5. To J. Murray, A. Apple and C, Copeland, #4 each. To F. Parkman, Hovey & Co. and G. Evers, $3 each. To W. C. Strong, for Fuchsias, $3. To T. G. Whytal, for bouquets, $3. To Bowditch &. Son, J. Nugent, J. A. Kenrick, G. G. Hubbard, and" M. Trautman, $2 each. To H. A. Fuller, E. S. Rand, Jr., J. C. Chaflin, Miss A. C. Kenrickr Mrs. Richardson, T. G. Whytal, G. W. Wilson, Miss M. A. Mun- roe, E. Wight, W. Heustis and W. C. Strong, $1 each. To D, Murray, $3 for a collection of 70 specimens native plants. JULY. 335 iortiatltunil fperations FOR JULY. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. June has been a cool month, with unusual quantities of rain, more, we believe, than has fallen in the same month for some years. The ground has been so wet that Avork has been completely retarded. On the morning of the 6th, there was a light frost. Attend now to the culture of the soil. Mulch newly planted trees if the weather continues hot. Stir the soil often, which will not only keep down the weeds, but forward vegetation rapidly. Summer prune fruit trees of all kinds, and by the last of the month budding may be commenced. Grape Vines will begin to ripen their crop, and, as the berries color, watering should be lessened, and more air given. Stop the laterals again. Young vines should be freely syringed every n ght, and a genial, moist at- mosphere kept up by damping the walks and closing the house early. Vines in cold houses should have the thinning all done. Stop the laterals. In good weather use water freely. Pear Trees may be summer pruned this month, and superfluous branches may be cut in. Commence thinning the fruit early, taking off every infe- rior specimen. Mulch and water, if large specimens are wanted. Trees may be budded the last of the month. Fruit Trees in pots should be more sparingly watered as the fruit be- gins to ripen ; water young trees copiously. Strawberry Beds, as soon as the fruit is gathered, should be well manured and dug, so as to give room for layering a crop of fresh runners for bearing next year. Prune trees of all kinds now, if not already done. Insects — look after them ; have whale oil soap ready for the pear slug. flower department. June as well as May was a wet month, and greatly retarded all work. All the plants should now be got out of the houses, except such as are intended for blooming through the season, or for growing for specimens next year. Propagation of new things will be over, but there are still many plants which may be propagated readily if the stock is short. Rearrange the conservatory, which should now be as gay as in winter, with an abun- dance of fine specimen plants. Camellias should be removed from the house to a shady situation. Re- potting may be done now to the best advantage. Azaleas, done growing, may be removed to the open air; young stock may be retained in the house, and pushed on by means of repotting, water- ing and syringing. Pelargomums may now be headed in, and cuttings put in if a stock is wanted. Water sparingly, and remove to a half shady place. 386 THE MAGAZINE OP HOKTICULTUEE. Chrtsanthemums should be repotted and plunged in the open ground, in an airy situation. Roses for winter blooming should be repotted and plunged in the border. OxALis HiRTA AND BowiEi should be ropottcd this month. Cinerarias should be kept in a cool frame, where they can be shaded from the hot sun. Sow seeds now, and propagate young stock by dividing the roots, or by cuttings. Monthly Carnations, well rooted from layers, should be taken off and replanted in a bed of rich soil. Stevias, Eupatoridms, and other winter blooming plants should be re- potted and plunged in the open ground. Calceolaria Seeds may be planted now. Mignonette should be sown this month for winter bloom. Verbenas, for winter blooming, should be repotted. Ericas, in frames, should be kept liberally watered and shaded from the noonday sun. Gardenias may be planted out in a warm border. Fuchsias will need repotting if not already done. Syringe often, and keep the roots well watered. AcHiMENES and Gloxinias may be repotted. Greenhouse Plants of all kinds, not especially named above, should be looked after. All winter flowering stuff should be grown strong and early, so as to get the wood well ripened. flower garden and shrubbery. Roll, mow and sweep the lawn, and clean walks : on no account omit to roll before mowing. Clip hedges if not already done. Stir the surface of the border often, and tie up all plants which require it. Dahlias should be all set out at once, if not already done. Hollyhocks should be staked and watered freely if dry weather. Biennial and Perennial flower seeds may now be planted in beds well prepared for the purpose. Tulip and other bulbs should be taken up. Carnations and Picotees should be neatly staked up. Pinks should be propagated by pipings or layering. Japan Lilies should be neatly staked. Phloxes, growing too thick, should have a portion of the shoots cut away. Daisies should be divided and reset. Plants in pots, of various kinds, may be plunged out in the border to fill vacancies. Annuals of all kinds, grown in frames, should be transplanted into the borders or beds. Running Plants, such as Maurandyas, Cobaeas, &c., should be looked after, and the shoots neatly trailed up. Roses should be layered this month. THE ROSE. It is a long period since we have had a chat with our read- ers about roses ; so long, indeed, except incidentally, that we shall not attempt to name the time. If, however, they will refer to the very early volumes of our Magazine they will find several articles upon this favorite flower which give the pro- gress of its culture up to that period. But if we have not oftener discoursed upon this " Queen of Flowers," it has not been because we are insensible to its superior claims upon our attention, but rather, because other subjects, upon which less had been written and consequently more information needed, required our attention and occu- pied our pages. Still a fair record, thanks to the kindness of our friends, has not been wanting, of the progress of rose cult- ure, and some valuable hints, — among which we may name those of our able correspondents, the Rev. A. D. Gridley and Prof. Page, whose articles, not yet completed, contain all that is new in rose growing, — have been given, both upon the cultivation and selection of the best varieties ; and we know not that we can add much to such complete essays upon the treatment of this most beautiful of flowers. In fact, our ob- ject at this time is to urge more forcibly its claims upon the attention of cultivators, doubly enriched as it has been by the immense progress which has been made within a few years in the introduction of new varieties, of which the most enthusi- astic admirers of the rose could scarcely have dreamed, a brief period ago. How great indeed is the change of twenty-five years. Who then ever heard of Remontante roses ? The French had hardly accomplished that great achievement which has since given to the world the invaluable treasures which we at this day possess. Not an American catalogue enumerated a Per- petual rose, and though the French and English named a few which they called the Portland or four seasons, the first faint idea of what was to follow, all have long since ceased to be VOL. XXV. — ^NO. VIII. 22 338 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. worthy of a place in our gardens. Even the Bourbons were so few in number, and of such ordinary colors, that they were scarcely recognized as an important class ; and the Noisettes, with one or two exceptions, were of little value. No G^ant de Batailles, Jules Margottin, Gen. Jacqueminot, or Lord Raglan, gladdened the eyes of enthusiastic and admiring amateurs : no Cloth of Gold, Solfataire, or Isabella Gray, with their glowing yellow tints : no Souvenir de la Malmai- son, — most lovely of lovely roses : no Saffrano, or Gloire de Dijon, with their rich sunset coloring ; and more than all, be- cause they come to the homes of all, no Prairie Queens or Kings then trailed their vigorous branches over our lattices and arbors, and wreathed their profusion of flowers in that witchery of beauty which now meets us in almost every cot- tage home or villa garden. A thousand thanks to the skilful and patient rose growers of France, who, after years of unre- mitting industry, have brought the rose to its present degree of perfection, and thanks too to our own countrymen, who have not been forgetful of our needs, and supplied us with what we did not have and probably could not obtain from any other source. What if, in bringing Remontant roses up to the standard of beauty, some hundred kinds have been introduced and thrown aside as of little worth, — of what matter is it, that even many hundreds or thousands of dollars have passed into the hands of the Parisian cultivators, from the amateurs of Great Britain and America, for these novelties : have not the acquisition of La Rcine, Geant de Batailles, Lord Raglan, Gen. Jacqueminot, Jules Margottin, Eveque de Nimes, Mad. Vidot, Gloire de Dijon, Souvenir d'un Ami, and many others, amply repaid everything with compound interest? When for one moment we compare the roses of even 1850, without go- ing farther back, with those of 1859, is there not gratification enough without the petty accusations against the persevering cultivators that their roses are all alike and show little im- provement, as if nothing had been gained and perfection was to be reached at once. Well has Dr. Lindley said, in speak- ing of the great National Rose Show in London, " For our- selves, the question that has been uppermost in our minds we are more eager than ever to find answered : ' What have real- ly been the processes by whose agency the savage roses of all countries have been brought to their present state of civiliza- tion ? What has formed the tender race of Teas out of the hardy monthly rose, (R. indica) ? In what secret manner was Jacqueminot descended from the ephemeral semperfio- rens ; what natural arcanum must be consulted, if beginning again, we had to produce the dark pink spectabilis, or the blushing Myrianthes, or snow white Princess Louise, out of E. sempervirens ? Some must know. Such secrets should not be kept. And we hope that one of our admirable grow- ers will set to work in earnest to disentangle the web of hy- bridization, and tell us the true history of the marvellous changes brought about within the last thirty years." Wonderful indeed have been the results of hybridization, and a similar train of thoughts rush through our mind when- ever we look upon a fine bed of the new Remontants, and other unique roses. It only shows what changes may be effected in all plants by perseverance, united with intelligence and skill. The same processes, followed up for a time, would no doubt give us that most desired treasure a hardy yellow climbing rose, and perhaps Moss roses of the same shade. After what has been accomplished we may indulge in the wildest expec- tations and feel but little doubt that they will be realized. The culture of the rose received a severe check from the sad ravages of the slug, and we think it not too much to say that but for the timely and invaluable discovery of Mr. Hag- gerston, in 1842, for the thorough destruction of this vile in- sect, to this day the rose with all its charms would be a stran- ger to many gardens. We well remember the time when in utter disgust we dug up and transferred to the brush pile a fine collection of roses, because nothing would stay the rav- ages of the slug. Every leaf was devoured ; not a green thing was to be seen, and with such havoc we could have no pa- tience ; a flower we cherished so highly we could not see thus despoiled of its freshness and vigor ; far preferable was it that we should forego a pleasure which should prove a pain in the end. Disappointed and disheartened, cultivators reluctantly gave up the rose, or at least neglected it for other plants, until 340 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. the joyous announcement of Mr. Haggerston's remedy, when once more it grew in favor, and has continued to grow till now it is likely to become here, as it is among English and French cultivators, the leading flower. The gratitude of every rose lover is due to Mr. Haggerston for his persever- ance to so happy a result. And now that we can have roses, and such beautiful ones too, — roses which even Paradise did not afford for the holy Dorothea, nor eastern nations, in all their extravagant love of this flower, possess, — why should not our gardens be redolent with their fragrance and beauty ? Why should a little bush here and a little bush there satisfy the wants of the real lover of flowers ? Why not have them in profusion, through sum- mer and autumn, and, where the means will permit, through winter and spring — the year round ? Who ever tires of the rose ? Such are the thoughts suggested by one of the most bril- liant displays of roses we have ever had, prolonged by the cool season, and still rich with occasional gems like Jacquemi- not, Souvenir de la Malmaison, and Gloire de Dijon, and Bourbons and Teas in abundance. We would have all enjoy what affords so much pleasure to ourselves. We have in years past been less extravagant in our admiration of the Re- montants than others, because it is a good thing and an abun- dance of it that we like, and this the Remontants have not supplied like the June roses. But now that even one bloom gives us so much gratification, brought up to a standard sur- passing in some respects the Provins and Gallicas, our love is extending and takes in the somewhat shy blooming but yet magnificent Remontants. The latter are the favorites, and the June roses are neglect- ed ; yet what excel Shakspeare, or Chenedol^, or Madam Hardy, or Coupe d'Hebe, or Boula de Nanteuil, or Paul Per- ras, or Amiable ? In form, in color, in size, and in profusion of bloom, in hardiness and vigor, what can we need more. These and many others we might name must be in every col- lection. For nearly a month they are loaded with their su- perb flowers. Let the June roses form at least one half of every rose garden. AUGUST. 341 The Remontants require more care than the June roses ; they still have so much of the Indian blood in them that they require a slight protection in severe winters to save the wood ; the roots are safe, but one does not care to lose the best blooming wood when a little labor would prevent it. They need too the free use of the pruning knife, — as indeed do all roses with a few exceptions, — that is, summer pruning, if a fine autumnal bloom is wanted. With these precautions they will not fail to favor us with a display of their rich charms bountifully and freely; and to pluck a "Jules" on a frosty October morning, or catch the "Giant" in all the freshness of June, will repay all the care a whole collection demands. What we need to bring up the rose to its proper estimation is a Rose Exhibition, similar to that now inaugurated by the English cultivators, called the Grand National Rose Show, in which are gathered all the best flowers of all the best cultiva- tors in the kingdom. The first of these was held in 1858, and the second took place at St. James Hall, on the 23d of June. It was as successful as the first. A more magnificent display could not well be imagined. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society has done some thing towards effecting here what the National Show has ac- complished in England. It has been a good beginning. But it must be done on a more liberal scale ; the prizes must be ample to encourage the cultivators, and the demand, as re- gards excellence, equal to the encouragement offered. Let all the lovers of the rose determine that their favorite shall be elevated to a higher rank in the estimation of the public and the work is half done. RURAL SPORTS. BY WILSON FLAGG. I have always been inclined to attribute the love of hunting and fishing, and of field sports in general, to a love of nature, or a passion for liberty, open air, and green fields and woods. There is a large number of men who manifest their sympathy with nature decidedly in this way, and often in no other. S42 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. There is no other sport so exhilarating or so beautiful as these field exercises; and, in spite of the cruelty of the sport, it tends to improve the cheerfulness as well as the health of the person who is addicted to it. Nothing exerts a better influ- ence in quieting the nerves, and in subduing an irritable habit, than exercise that wearies without exhausting. The soothing and sedative influence of such exercise is like that of an anodyne, without any subsequent reaction. The men who engage in these sports, however, are not in general to be identified with the naturalist; though the men of taste and science and the angler are often united. To the labors of such men as old Isaac Walton, both in Europe and America, are we indebted for many valuable accounts of the quadrupeds, birds, and fishes of these countries. While en- gaged in the apparently indolent sport of angling, one often makes some valuable observations of nature; and the- pro- fessed naturalist must draw much of his information from those who sport with the rod and the gun. It is idle, therefore, to condemn these sports, without quali- fication, though we must admit that there is no more despica- ble character than one who, at all times and seasons, becomes the indiscriminate destroyer of birds and animals. Such are, indeed, among the most mischievous of men. If not restrained by law, or by public opinion, they would be complete desola- ters of our fields and woods, with no more conscience than the man who cuts down a standard pasture oak for firewood ; and by this wanton destruction of birds, they not only deprive mankind of the pleasure derived from listening to their voices and watching their habits, but would expose the whole wide country to the evils of the excessive multiplication of insects. A devastator of this description deserves not to be admitted into the pale of good society. He is in his way no better than a pirate, and his works tend to upset the order and relations which nature has established among the different races of liv- ing creatures. As population thickens, and the country is deprived of its primitive forest, the birds can with difficulty be preserved in sufficient numbers to keep pace with the multiplication of insects. The time, therefore, is very near at hand when it AUGUST, 343 will hardly be admissible to destroy a single bird, in any of the densely populated states. The question is not whether we have a right to deprive these creatures of life, but whether we have a right to deprive the community of benefits, which in many different ways accrue from their preservation. The man, therefore, who, by prudently observing certain rules, hunts at the present time very harmlessly, may, before many years, be obliged to quit his favorite pursuit entirely, to pre- vent the utter extermination of' wild birds and animals. If the sports of the field may, in a few years, be necessarily relinquished, the same cannot be said of angling. Fishes multiply more in the ratio of insects than of birds; and, though it might be no difficult matter to destroy all the fishes in any small lake or pond, yet by observing certain times and seasons for omitting the sport, their numbers, while multitudes were taken, might remain nearly the same. In Great Britain, for a century past, field sports have been regarded as a luxury, which great landowners alone were allowed to partake : and notwithstanding the evident injustice and cruelty of certain penalties attached to violations of the game laws, it must be admitted that, without them, England would have been de- prived of many useful and interesting species of birds and quadrupeds. A man of cultivated mind and a genuine love of nature re- quires no such occupations to fill out the measure of his hap- piness in the country. He lives under the guidance of the laws of nature as if he believed her to be a real deity, who overlooked his actions, and would reward his good works. Though we personify nature only as a poetical figure of speecli, her rewards and punishments are as sure as if they were dealt out as such ; and the community that allows the wanton destruction of trees and birds, and other useful ani- mals of the forest, will soon reap the evil consequences of its folly. Whatever may be the amount of gratification which the hunter or the angler derives from his pursuits, I believe it would bear no comparison with that which the student of nature enjoys. Sir Joseph Banks, chasing the Emperor of Morocco (a species of butterfly) over his neighbor's tulip beds, must feel as much of the ardor of chase, as the greatest hunter in following a deer through the forest. 344 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. An English writer, speaking of angling, remarks, "angling is a sport of considerable antiquity, and followed with the greatest avidity by some persons of every rank in life. It has some eminent advantages over many other rural sports : it is but little dangerous, incurs but little expense, and is produc- tive of some profit. It is peculiarly fitted for the placid and thoughtful ; nor need the gay and volatile despair of finding their attention engaged, while the more active mode of fly- fishing remains in use. Perhaps there are few pursuits that display more elegant attitudes than that of throwing the fly, nor are there but few in which the expectation is so much kept alive, with so little bodily or mental exertion, as in this deliglitful branch of the art. On the other hand, simple float angling has its advantages likewise ; for in this the infirm and aged may partake, and the solitary may pursue the amusement, witliout fear of interruption from the busy or impertinent. Here, likewise, the contemplative may combine relaxation with improvement, as few persons have a greater opportunity of studying nature in her varied garb than the angler." William Howitt, on the other hand, is more eloquent in praise of hunting than angling. He says, " the philosophical inquirer is aware how many causes are combined in the pro- duction of our most ordinary pleasures, and among the nu- merous sources of a sportsman's enjoyment, the influence of natural beauty is one of the most efficient. It may not be very apparent; in nine cases out of ten it may even be un- known to the man himself, yet it is not the less true ; the love of nature and the silent apprehension of her beauty, is a freely bestowed and far spreading gift. It lives in the least cultured heart, as the beautiful wild flower in the unploughed heath. It lives often a pleasant though unperceived guest. It spreads the charm of its influence when its possessor has not even a name for it, yet still it lives, — and they who can- not talk of it yet feel it in its sweetness and its power. The sportsman seldom analyzes his own feelings ; he cares not to inquire into the causes of his taste and his gratification ; but those causes exist in the secret of his heart, and he follows their delightful impulse with joy. Ask a sportsman if he be AUGUST. 345 an admirer of nature, — he has perhaps never thought of the subject; but the moment he goes forth he gives practical proof of his attachment. Whither does he go ? To the fre^ and fresh air, to the sohtude of the heatli and the mountain, to dells and copses, where his dogs plunge amid the red fern and the fading leaves, and the pheasant, the partridge, or the hare, start forth in their wild beauty ; — where the tall dry grass and the autumnal tree fill the soul with their richness — to the clear and tinkling stream that stretches on alternately through the bowery brake, the obscurity of the wood, and the sunshine of the open fields." " He couches down for a mo- mentary rest on the hillside, where the country opens before him in pictorial loveliness. He flies from the pelting shower to the hut or tree, and recounts at eve by his own fireside, with his dogs basking on the hearth before him, his whole day's round of adventure, with every outward expression of enthu- siasm, with such happy and picturesque phrases as often make the places he speaks of rise up before you, and with an inward glow of happiness, that exclaims to itself ' this is life ' ! I know that such are his feelings, and therefore, notwithstanding that his pursuit cannot be totally exempt from the charge of cruelty, it is impossible not to sympathize with him!" POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. New Strawberries. — There seems to be no lack of new strawberries. Notwithstanding the American Pomological Society, at its last session in September, rejected more than seventy varieties, — many of which were heralded to the pub- lic within the last ten years as superior to all others, — yet cultivators appear confident that they have finally succeeded in raising seedlings which will surpass any that have yet been produced. We do not suppose that there is to be no further improvement in the strawberry ; still, the history of the last twenty-five years pretty clearly proves that it is no easy thing to produce varieties surpassing those we already have. It is a commendable object to attempt the production of new vari- 346 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ties, and whoever succeeds in raising one that is really an improvement, will not only deserve and receive the tlianks of all pomologists, but be amply repaid for his labor by the ready sale of his plants. But tlie disappointments which have resulted from the in- troduction of so many new varieties, with remarkable quali- ^es and at high prices, which have proved to be in reality worthless, have induced cultivators to look with caution upon all new seedlings and demand some proof that they are what they are described to be, before adding them to their collec- tions. There are some individuals so credulous as to believe every wonderful story that is told about a new strawberry, but the mass of cultivators cannot, we tliink, be deceived as they have been heretofore. Seedling strawberries, fully equal to the majority of all that have been introduced the last twenty years, may be raised with scarcely any trouble. If the seed is carefully gathered from any of the large and fine straM'^berries, sown in the spring, and the young plants set out in May, tlie following season as fine a bed may be obtained as by the purchase of many dollars' worth of some of the "new and superior" vari- eties annually offered for sale. We would not by any means discourage the growtli of seedlings, but we must have some assurance that they are better than we already have before recommending them to cultivators. The following are some of the new varieties now intro- duced for the first time : — Downer's Prolific Seedling. — Raised by J. S. Downer, Elkton, Ky. It is described as " perfectly hardy, is equal to McAvoy's Superior or Hovey's Seedling in size of berry, is equal to Burr's New Pine in flavor, and from six to ten times as productive as any other of the 100 varieties in cultivation in this vicinity," (Elkton, Ky.) It has fruited four seasons with similar results, and has been examined by competent judges three consecutive seasons. If Mr. Downer's Seedling- fulfils all he says of it, it will be a remarkable berry. Our West Cambridge strawberry growers produce fou?' thousand quarts to the acre, and if they can have a berry producing six to ten times as much, (from twenty-four to forty thousand quarts — or 1000 bushels,) it would be a crop worth looking at. AUGUST. 347 Fillmore Strawberry. — Grown by Messrs. S. Feast & Sons, of Baltimore, who state that in 1852 they raised several thousand seedlings, out of which, after the first year of bear- ing, they selected sixty-three varieties considered good. These were planted six feet apart to test their qualities. One proved to be superior, which they named the Fillmore. The last two seasons they have planted them promiscuously betweei^ the beds of all the best varieties they had in cultivation. It has proved as far superior to all, as the Hovey is to the old Scarlet. The habit of the plant is robust, leaf rough, large, round, and very dark green ; footstalk of the fruit large and erect ; a prolific bearer, every berry perfect, dark rich crim- son color, and fine flavor. Staminate. The size of the ber- ries is not stated. Wilson's Albany Strawberry. — As a great deal has been said in praise of this variety, we were prepared to expect a very remarkable fruit, and have not only been very greatly disappointed ourselves, but find the general complaint to be that it is very sour and flavorless. Dr. J. A. Kinnicott, of the Grove, Illinois, in a letter, says — '■'■I donH like the Albany^ and shall say so. To me it has a sort of elderberry flavor, but half concealed by the acid." The Country Gentleman says the objection formerly raised to the Albany of acidity, is we believe tenable, as the specimens fully ripened were to our taste almost as acid as the Extra Red. The Rural New Yorker calls it a productive berry of "rather ordinary qual- ity." At the late meeting of the Fruit Growers' Society of Western New York, Mr. Maxwell, of Geneva, recommended it for preserving, " on account of its acid qualities." Our own beds, set out last year, produced a small crop and we found them just as Dr. Kinnicott has described it, wat- ery and acid, with a medicinal elderberry flavor. Some few berries tasted by the Fruit Committee of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society were the poorest of several varieties tasted. How long will it be before a strawberry is correctly described, so that cultivators may know what they are raising ? Hovey's Seedling under a new Name. — We noticed in the reports of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, that the first premium was awarded to the Germantown strawberry. 348 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Anxious to possess a variety which should equal the Hovey, we were very desirous to know what the Germantown was and where it could be had. A correspondent informs us that Mr. "W. Sanders, of that city, the well known nurseryman and landscape gardener, declares it to be " nothing but the Hovey !" ^ Premium Strawberries. — We are pleased to see our old favorite, the Hovey, still carries off the palm. In Cincinnati, the secretary of the society, Mr. E. J. Hooker, carried off the prize with this variety. He states, in regard to the exhibition of strawberries, that about four or five kinds were as large and as luscious as formerly, particularly Hovey and Long- worth's Prolific — the Hovey especially, being all that this at present unsurpassed variety embraces in size, form and flavor, receiving the first premium ! At the Horticultural Exhibition of White Plains, N. Y., the editor of the New York Observer states that the " Hovey Seedlings, from the garden of H. W. Tibbetts, were the largest, richest, and altogether the most ex- traordinary strawberries we ever saw. Twenty of them filled a basket, which we brought to town the next day to feast the citizens." Strawberry Discussion. — The Fruit Growers' Society of Western New York held its summer meeting in Rochester, June 23d. A long discussion took place upon the strawberry, which we have not room to copy entire, but we give the views of the principal speakers : — J. J. Thomas spoke highly of Wilson's Albany. Had cul- tivated Peabody's Seedling for two years and considered the berry excellent. M. G. Warner wished to recommend McAvoy's No. 1, as one of the most prolific berries he knew. It was a pistillate, and more productive than the Albany. It was far superior to the Hooker, which with him winter killed more than any other. Mr. Smith, Geneva, said the Early Scarlet Virginia was the most profitable berry grown. Next to the Early Scarlet, Wilson's Albany promises well. Hooker did not stand the winter well. Mr. Townsend found the same objection to the Hooker. Dr. Sylvester said the flavor of Wilson's Albany was rather AUGUST. 349 too acid to suit his taste but it certainly was very productive. As to flavor, Burr's New Pine certainly was the highest, and the best berry he knew. Peabody's Seedling he considered one of the best of the staminate sorts. C. M. Hooker said three fourths of the strawberries set out by him were Early Scarlet, and for all market purposes it had been found the most profitable. Wilson's Albany promises well. Hovey's Seedling had never succeeded well with him. B. Hodge, (the President,) had, unlike most other cultiva- tors, found Hovey's Seedling the most productive. A ballot was then taken as to the best six varieties for mar- ket, which resulted as follows : — Early Scarlet, 19 votes ; Wilson's Albany, 19 ; Hooker, 11 ; Hovey, 10 ; Triumph de Gand, 8 ; Burr's New Pine, 6 ; other varieties, 1 to 4 votes each. Another ballot was taken for the best six varieties for ama- teurs, which resulted in the following list : — Early Scarlet, Hooker, Burr's New Pine, Hovey's Seedling, Wilson's Albany, and Triumph de Gand. Best Six Strawberries. — At a late meeting of the New York Farmers' Club, the strawberry question was again intro- duced, and the following report of the committee appointed at a previous meeting to report the best six varieties, was read and after long discussion was adopted unanimously : — 1. Wilson's Albany. Its promising good qualities are pro- ductiveness, size, and firm, juicy flesh. It is, however, too acid for the taste of many. 2. Longworth's Prolific. Early, large, and of excellent flavor ; only moderately productive ; sometimes running too much to leaf. 3. Hooker. Good size, of a rich sweet flavor ; moderately productive. (Some say very productive.) 4. Mac Avoy's Superior. Productive, large, and of excel- lent flavor ; berries often defective in form. 5. Hovey's Seedling. This variety is too well known to need any description. Its only defect is dryness and want of high flavor. 6. Burr's New Pine. Of exquisite flavor, medium size, only moderately productive ; plants want vigor and hardiness. 350 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. RHODODENDRONS. — No. 4. FROM THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. The preceding papers under this head have referred more especially to hardy hybrid rhododendrons. We come now to speak directly of those from Sikkim and Bootan: for although the general principles for the successful treatment of all are in the main identical, the latter present some specialities for separate consideration. As was hinted in our introductory paper, the direct garden value of these fine plants has hitherto been and will continue to be found, not as occupants of the "American garden," but as ornaments to our greenhouses and conservatories. Considered as such they can hardly be over-estimated ; but with one or two exceptions they are entirely unsuited for open-air culture in this country. The protection they require, however, is so slight as to render their successful cultivation attainable by almost every one who possesses a greenhouse or pit. Where however a structure can be devoted entirely to them as a collection, it will be found highly advantageous, for under no other circumstances can they be so successfully grown, and as any protection from cold beyond actual exclu- sion of frost is unnecessary, a suitable building need only be of very simple construction. Of course they may be all cul- tivated with more or less success in company with other plants, demanding and receiving a higher temperature than is im- plied by the slight protection alluded to, but, as we shall presently see, the greater the amount of warmth and confine- ment they are subjected to at particular periods of their growth, the greater the care required for their successful culture. Although found growing naturally on widely different ele- vations and in various habitats, implying a great diversity of temperature and local influence, they, in general, associate well together under artificial treatment. The fears expressed by Dr. Hooker on their first introduction, that such jv'ould not be the practical results, have happily not been realized. Even in a natural state, they, like plants in general, readily AUGUST. 351 adapt themselves to accidental circumstances, and under the opposite conditions of cultivation they are equally docile. Is not Dalhousiae on its native hills at once an Epiphyte and a terrestrial plant? And does it not here at once settle down quietly in a pot of red clay and an artificial compost? Edge- worthii too is equally an Epiphyte,. and as readily forgets the Pine branches on which it flourished in the humid forests of the Himalaya to become humbled on a greenhouse stage in England. And glaucum and setosum too, from elevations of 12,000 to 16,000 feet in Nepal or Sikkim, descend to luxuriate in a peat bed at Clapham or Hounslow! And equally ready are the other kinds to adapt themselves to artificial treatment, under which aspect alone we must here consider them. Perhaps no point in their culture is of greater importance than the necessity for preventing the scorching of the leaves. And in unskilful hands or under injudicious treatment this is very likely to be, as it often is, the result. The remedy or rather the preventive, is a free circulation and an abundance of fresh air about the plants when growing, accompanied of course by ample root moisture. At the growing season culti- vation must be liberal, any approach to a system of coddling* will assuredly be fatal. A slight shading when the sun is powerful will then often be found necessary, or at least bene- ficial, but even that assistance must be cautiously resorted to. If the shoots be made and matured (imperfectly of course) under conditions which have prevented the tissues of the leaves from acquiring their proper solidity, or if during their formation they be allowed either from a deficiency of moisture or from an over-heated atmosphere, or from both in combina- tion, to become flaccid to any considerable extent, the edges at least of such leaves will rarely regain a healthy tone, but will in a short time assume the appearance of brown paper, to the destruction of the present beauty of the plant so dam- aged, as well as a certain hindrance to its future progress. Coddling in any garden operation in which plants are con- cerned is a mistaken kindness, and sooner or later defeats its own purpose ; but in the cultivation of Sikkim Hhododendrons *I use this term for lack of a better. It is at least expressive, and will be well understood by all good cultivators. 352 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. it is absolute destruction. In this respect they very much re- semble heaths, and he who can grow those planto well need not despair with the Sikkim rhododendrons. A close atmosphere and drought at root are alike fatal to both. And though we have as yet but cursorily alluded to the importance of root moisture in connection with the subjects of this paper, it is an equally essential condition in their success, as in that of their relatives previous treated on. Rhododendrons in pots or tubs especially demand great vigilance to prevent dryness at root, and it cannot be urged too forcibly on all who cultivate such, that if a rhododendron so situated become once thor- oughly root dried, it receives an amount of damage that years of subsequent care will hardly compensate. Where convenience and space will allow some of the liner species to be planted out in the conservatory border, they should certainly be so treated. Careful culture would enable them to develop their true characters under such conditions ; and, apart from their flowers, which would of course be their chief decorative features, the foliage would form no mean attraction, as all will readily testify who have seen large, healthy, vigorous plants of Falconeri, Hodgsonii, argenteum, or Nuttallii. In choosing plants as permanent occupants of the conser- vatory or other structure devoted to a mixed collection of plants, it will of course be advisable to select such as will best sustain the greatest amount of heat ; and fortunately these are among the most attractive kinds. Edgworthii, Dalhousioe, Maddeni, Jenkinsii, calophyllum, and Nuttallii may be espe- cially selected. As regards soil their requirements are almost identical with those of the ordinary and hybrid varieties. A mixture of leaf mould, sand, and fibrous loam suits them admirably. And, like the liardy kinds, they, with one or two exceptions, graft well. I lately examined a collection of some hundreds of grafted plants, which were among tlie earliest of those " work- ed," and consequently are now at least six or seven years old. In most of them the union between scion and stock could hardly be detected, and their general health left nothing to be wished for. It is clear therefore that objections to AUGUST. 353 grafted Sikkim rhododendrons are equally unfounded as with those of tlie hardy kinds. But of the stocks : — All the free- growing kinds, as Dalliousioe, Edgeworthii, and Nuttallii, suc- ceed best on the common ponticum, in fact Dalhousite refuses to unite well with any other ; while fulgens,Wighti, Thomson!, and all those which have affinity with campanulatum, are best grafted on hybrid catawbiense stocks. The process of grafting and the necessary conditions are identical with those previously detailed and illustrated. The small free-flowering species, as setosum, ciliatum, and glaucum, may readily be increased by cuttings and seeds, and other free-growing kinds which throw plenty of wood are also easily propagated by cuttings ; but for the species in general, and for quickly obtaining blooming plants, grafting offers by far the greater advantages, and to this, as we have seen, there are no valid objections. The only species which has hitherto not grafted successfully is lanatum ; why, it is difficult to de- termine, seeing that its close allies are- among the readiest to succeed, nor indeed is it more tractable on its owu roots, and there is at least the satisfaction of knowing that grafted plants, indifferent though they may be, are always superior. When any of the kinds assume a straggling habit of growth, as some of them naturally do, Edgworthii and Dalhousiae for example, the knife may be fearlessly resorted to as a remedy. Cut as much as may be necessary to form well-shaped plants ; plenty of new shoots will result, provided always however that the plants so pruned are strong at root and well established. Here these papers may be brought to a close. They have run to a greater length than was originally contemplated, but as they were written to meet the inquiries of several corres- pondents, one of whom requested such information as should " guide those who have had no experience in the matter," it was necessary to treat the various subjects in an elementary manner, it is hoped sufliciently so. If, however, any topic should have been inadvertently overlooked, or too cursorily treated, and intimation of such should reach the writer it shall be amply treated in a supplementary paper. VOL. XXV. — NO. VIII. 23 354 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. THE R O S E.— No. 8. Br PROF. C. G. PAGE, M. D., WASHINGTON, D. C. New Varieties. — They pour in upon us so " thick and fast," that the new are soon old, and before we can fairly get a taste of the novelties of one year, the next holds up to us an array of beauties of irresistible temptation. When we consider that it takes from three to five years from the seed sowing to introduce a new rose, and all tlie difficulties of ob- taining varieties sufficiently distinct from, or superior to, the gems already in our possession , we can form some idea of the zeal and extent of this kind of culture in Europe, whence nearly all our contributions come. The inquiry is now per- tinent, for what qualities shall we accept a new variety ? It is not necessary that, to meet our approval, a new rose should be perfectly full, very large, or even fragrant, although the absence of odor is hardly excusable in the rose. As a general rule, a new rose must be either unique or distinct in some one or more qualities, or it must have superior excellence over others of its kind. For example, Saffrano is distinct in the bud, in that only ; and for that alone it is indispensable. Devoniensis is the Tea rose "joar excellence,^'' by its delicious odor, and is, withal, of beautiful appearance, though inferior in this and all other respects to some others of its class. Sombrieul is a rose of magnificent habit and appearance, and for these qualities a great favorite, although almost scentless ; and so of the other groups of roses. But while we are content with a few distinct and superior traits, we nevertheless, in these days, desire something more in a new rose. We seek after an assemblage of all the good qualities, and the develop- ments of each succeeding year seem to bring us nearer to the realization of our wishes. We want roses of good form, good color, good growth, good fragrance, good blooming habit — perpetual of course — good in the bud, good in the open flower, long stems, persistent flowers, good foliage, perfectly hardy, and we might exact even more, but these will do. No rose of late years has found such extensive favor as Giant of Battles, but it is, nevertheless, to be improved upon. AUGUST. 355 It is hardy, a truly perpetual bloomer, good form, splendid color, sufficiently fragrant at times, and although not what is termed a " vigorous" grower, yet it is full of life ; for a bud inserted in almost any stock will push at once, and bloom in a few weeks from tlie time of insertion. The brilliant scarlet crimson of the Giant is however fugacious, lasting but a few hours, and the habit of the plant is not of the best, being of medium growth and liable to mildew, and the rose has short stems. We did hope to see in Lord Raglan the Giant repeat- ed, with all the required improvements ; but we are here disappointed, for, with all Raglan's magnificence of color, form and habit of growth, it has thus far shown itself a shy bloomer. We hope that age may improve it in this respect, and not without some reason, for we are told that when Mar- gottin first " put out" Giant of Battles, he had a faint idea of its present splendor. I do not yet know the parentage of Raglan, but, as the Giant is a profuse seed-bearer, it may yet give birth to its own Conqueror. Prince de la Moskowa would seem by its foliage to have sprung from the Giant, and is by^ far the most magnificent color of any rose I have seen. It is of the richest maroon, with occasional flashes of fiery crimson, but lacks fullness, and is of moderate growth. It is a good seed-bearer, and from the double cross with the gor- geous and vigorous Jacqueminot (the prince of seed-bearers), we shall expect to fill up the measure of our requirements in this desirable class of roses, which Paul has aptly named " Bourbon Perpetuals." He catalogues Moskowa and Cardi- nal Patrizzi — another dark-colored gem — witli the Remon- tants, but the foliage of both these roses is of the Giant stamp, and also of Arthur de Sansul, another rich production, and evidently a seedling from the Giant. Thus far these deep colors seem to be confined to moderate or dwarf growers, with the only exception we believe of Leon des Combats which is a vigorous grower, and as it occasionally makes seeds, (and seeds of quick and positive germination), we have the materials for the new race of " Conquerors," and hope, ere long, to see our poles, pillars and trellises covered with the exuberance of Bourbon foliage, and garnished through the season with flowers of all the dazzling and gor- 356 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. geous hues that now grace the humble individuals abore named. Think of a Bourbon pillar, with roses vieing in color with Paul Joseph, and varying from this to the purple of Patrizzi or maroon of Moskowa, and never without bloom. The first I have already attained in a Bourbon seedling, and the second and third approximated. At present we have but two good hardy high colored Bourbons, that deserve the name of pillar, pole, wall or climbing roses, and those are Souvenir d'Anselme or Enfant d'Ajaccio and Paxton ; the latter in fact may claim the entire honor. Fontenelle is a good grower, but has no title to a pillar rose, and if Paul Joseph or Purple of Tyre are " pillar roses" in England, they are not so here. Paxton is never injured at all in the winter here, and may therefore be trained to any height. From present indications we shall ere long be able to dispense with Detou.rville, Aurora du Guide, Deuil de Due d'Orleans, Charles Souchet, Pourpre de Tyre, et id omne genus^ and substitute for them perfectly hardy, vigorous pillar roses, with rival or even superior colors ; and even the many-petalled Paul Dupuy may yet find a rival, climbing over our lattices and hanging in clusters withal. It was not intended in this number to give a selection of choice roses, and we therefore specify only such as may be necessary to illustrate certain principles. I must take occa- sion, however, here to commend to general culture a rose which seems to have escaped all our English catalogues, and that is, Baron de Claparede, a Remontant with a slight ad- mixture of Bourbon, and perhaps the finest-formed rose known, of a good rosy crimson color, very sweet and of beau- tiful foliage a*nd habit of growth. In striped roses we are deficient. The French have recently sent us Belle Angevine, Mad. Desiree Giraud and Panachee d'Orleans, and had not the candor to tell us they were sports. Desiree Giraud is certainly a sporting Baron Prevost, and will sport back to that rose. Panachee d'Orleans is probably from the same source. Belle Angevine may be a genuine variety. Perhaps no vari- eties are more wanted now to make our bouquet perfect than a white and a yellow. We have no first rate white and yel- low roses, and this is somewhat strange since we have so many approximations. Lamarque is too tender, except for AUGUST. 857 the South ; and Isabella Gray, which was at first so highly prized, is now almost discarded. Gloire de Dijon is the most princely donation we have had for years, and as it is hardy and makes seeds, there is hope of a splendid progeny from it. The new Noisette America, originated by myself, outgrows even the Dijon and is more profuse of bloom, but being per- fectly full and mostly without stamen or pistil, there is no procreating help to be derived from this soTirce. It is remark- able that both the Dijon and America grow with astonishing rapidity when budded upon a Manetti or other good stock, and that their powerful growth entirely suppresses all tenden- cy to sucker in the Manetti stock. A word upon stocks and I will close this number. The Celine and Boursaults, so much recommended in Europe for stocks, are utterly worthless in this climate. The old Maiden's Blush and Hundred Leaf are vastly better, and are indeed quite convenient to have about for occasional budding. The Eglantine or sweet briar is not a reliable stock, but when man- aged as previously directed, answers an excellent purpose for a standard. It is, however, too thorny for comfortable use, even should it be good in all other respects. ROBINS AND CHERRIES. BY WILSON FLAGG. How shall we protect our summer fruits fropi the birds, is an important question at the present day. The cherry trees in all parts of the country are annually robbed of neary half their fruit by the robins and cedar birds, and some trees are entirely stripped. I watched the manoeuvres of the birds in two cherry trees directly opposite my window, belonging to a neighbor. As soon as the fruit had begun to redden, the cedar birds, or waxwings, came and pecked at the ripest of them. They appeared in flocks of three and five to seven. The common robins also came, but seldom more than one at a time, and I observed that they always drove the waxwings from the tree whenever they saw them. I have seen a robin, 358 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. indeed, neglect his own repast and spend a great part of his time in driving off these companions of his depredations. There was a difference in the mode of feeding practiced by these two species of birds. The robin pecked at the cherry until he obtained firm hold of it, then plucked it from the branch, and flow off with it in his mouth. The waxwings, on the contrary, nibbled the fruit, swallowing the fragments, but not carrying off any fruit in their bills. It seems to me, therefore, that the last do the greater mischief, by wounding a large number of cherries which they do not eat. What shall be done to prevent this mischief? My neighbor employed a young man to shoot the birds, fearing that his trees would be entirely stripped. After about a dozen of them had been shot, tlieir number did not seem to be dimin- ished, but the branches of the trees were found to be injured to such an extent by the shot, that the remedy seemed likely to be worse than the mischief committed by the birds. The expedient of destroying the birds is evidently not the right one. Setting aside the injury which the trees suffer from the ammunition of the gunner, the birds are protected by law on account of their usefulness to agriculture, and even if there were no such protection, they are more valuable to the public than the cherries, and it would be hardly justifiable, therefore, to destroy the former, for the saving of the latter. But, if the measure were right and justifiable, it is imprac- ticable. The united efforts of the cherry growers would be insufficient to exterminate them. The process of shooting the birds would need to be repeated every season, and many birds would be killed, the trees would be severely mutilated, but no cherries would be saved. A new swarm would visit them every year, during the cherry season, and the extermi- nators would resemble the man who should undertake to des- troy the grasshoppers in his mowing fields, and tread down his grass while "rampanging" round in his warfare of exter- mination. This expedient must be given up. The public will not permit the destruction of the birds. Some persons advise throwing a net over the trees, during the few days while the fruit is becoming mature. This may be done in some cases, if there are but few trees to be pro- AUGUST. 359 tected, and the owner can afford to undertake a job that must be both troublesome and expensive. Such an expedient would be hardly advisable except in extraordinary cases. Some fix a little windmill in the tree ; but as the wheel is constantly turning, the birds soon become accustomed to it, and cease to regard it with suspicion. If anything of this kind is to used, it should be kept motionless, until the birds fly into the tree, and then put suddenly into action by some person who is watching it. Something like a watchman's rattle elevated on a pole, and fastened firmly to each of the trees, with a cord to be pulled when the machine is to be set in motion, might answer a good purpose. A boy might be hired in this case to watch the trees, and to pull upon the cords as the birds arrived. Cherries require so short a time to ripen, that no tree would need to be watched more than one week. I have seen the experiment of placing a wren box on a cherry tree, tried in several instances with apparent success. The best thing for this purpose is an olive jar, which should be fixed upon the tree, by thrusting the stump of an amputated branch, the more upright the better, into the mouth of the inverted jar. A hole should previously be drilled into the side of the jar, of just sufficient size to admit a wren, but too small to allow a bluebird to enter; since, if it were otherwise, the latter would be sure to get possession of it. The wren being a very jealous and pugnacious bird, is diligent in driv- ing all birds from the tree in which his nest is built, and does not hesitate to attack birds as large as the robin. It is doubt- ful, however, whether the wren would persevere in his attacks, when the robins had become very numerous, but the expedi- ent might be used with some advantage in all cases. Let us next consider what are the circumstances under which the birds commit the most mischief by their consump- tion of fruit. It has probably been observed that those trees suffer the most which are situated where there are but few other cherry trees. In Andover, cherry trees are very abun- dant, being planted not only in gardens but also as shade trees in front of dwelling-houses. Hence this town, compared with some other places, has generally suffered but little from 360 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. such depredations. But during the present season there has been a faihire of the cherry crop in this town. For the first time, therefore, I hear my neighbors, whose trees are produc- tive, complaining of the birds. They accuse tliem of doing four or five times the injury which they have done in former seasons. Some trees have been entirely stripped of their fruit. Hence we are to infer that, by multiplying the cherry trees, we should divide the mischief they do among a larger number of trees ; and if they were planted by the roadsides, as in some parts of Germany, the mischief suffered by any single tree would be hardly perceptible. If any fruit grower should object to a measure of this kind, which would render cherries abundant and cheap, he ought not to complain of the birds for making them scarce. Again it may be observed, that those kinds of cherries which are late in ripening, always suffer the least. I supposed at first, that there must be a greater number of late-bearing trees, and that they suffered less on this account ; but upon inquiry and further observation, I ascertained that early cherry trees were the most numerous. While making these investi- gations, I observed that the robins and waxwings were very numerous in the blueberry pastures, and the problem was ex- plained. As soon as the blueberries begin to ripen, the birds are attracted to the pastures, and finding there a full supply of good fruit, are less greedy after cherries. This fact ac- counts, likewise, for the greater depredations committed by the birds among the fruit trees in Cambridge and other towns in the suburbs of Boston, than in the interior. There is but little wild land in these suburban towns ; and the quantity of blueberries which they produce is too small to divert the birds from the gardens. What can be more apparent then than the advantage that would ensue from planting the borders of the pastures and the unfrequented waysides with blueberry bushes ? But it is idle to recommend any such scheme ; for there are but few persons who would not spurn, with indignation, the idea of planting fruits exclusively for birds, and poor industrious Irish women, who would gather them for the market. But the planting of cherry trees, partly at the public expense, AUGUST. 361 might not seem, to the selfish wisdom of our countrymen, quite so preposterous. Let the legislature pass an act to pro- vide for the purchase annually of a certain number of young cherry trees, to be distributed gratuitously, not exceeding five to any one individual, to any person who would obligate him- self to plant them and take care of them. This is apparently a small inducement, but it would be effectual in promoting the object in view. There are but few men who own an acre of land who would not accept of a young cherry tree, on the simple condition of planting it, cherishing it, and gathering its fruit when it becomes productive. THE IVY-LEAVED SNAPDRAGON. BY THE EDITOR. It is a source of regret that our climate does not admit of the culture of some of the most picturesque plants, so long the ornament of English landscape, and around which clus- ter so many endearing associations. The Ivy which mantles the crumbling walls of old ruins, rendering them masses of perpetual verdure, is too tender for our New England winters; and the Ivy-leaved Snapdragon, which also scrambles over rough walls decorating them with its tiny foliage, will not succeed with us. Mrs. Hall, in her Book of the Thames, now publishing in the Art Journal, describes and figures many of the old plants which are pe- culiar to the localities along its banks, and which are associated with the scenery, and, among others, the Ivy-leaved Snapdragon, of which our en- graving (fig. 46) is a copy from the book, and we quote her own words in regard to this lovely old plant : — " The walls and woodwork of the old locks are beautifully decorated with groups of graceful plants, that would altogether form choice studies for the pre-Raphaelite painter. Perhaps IVY-LEAVED SNAPDRAGON. 362 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. the most elegant of these is the Ivy-leaved Snapdragon, (Li- naria cymbalaria) , a pendent plant, with glossy deep green leaves, ivy-like berries, and quaintly formed flower of violet color, with yellow throat. It appears this is not strictly an indigenous plant, but that it was originally introduced from Italy into our gardens, from which it has escaped and natu- ralized itself through the country, having now become as thoroughly English as any family that came in at the Con- quest. From Oxford to Teddington we are constantly meet- ing with the flowery festoons of this pretty plant, wherever old stonework is found in proximity to the water. We may suppose seeds of it have in old times escaped from some Ox- ford garden, washed by the Thames, and having been carried downwards by the stream, were deposited in convenient rest- ing-places along the river's course. This will account for the abundance of the plant on the line of the Thames, while in most other districts it is hardly ever met with." How long this plant has been introduced in our gardens we do not know ; but our first knowledge of it was not many years ago, when we saw it cultivated under the name of the Coliseum vine, from its abundance upon the old Roman ruins, and from wlience it was no doubt originally introduced to Britain. Shirley Hibbard, in his pleasant Book of Rustic Adornments, calls it the Wall Snapdragon. But we could find no very good account of it — nothing but the mere name in botanical works — until we met with Mrs. Hall's description. As a greenhouse, conservatory or parlor plant it is a beau- tiful object. Its leaves are very small, deep green, thick and glossy, resembling a miniature ivy leaf, and its tiny flowers are violet, with a yellow throat; the stems are extremely slender and graceful, and droop and run over every object within its reach. For suspending in baskets, or for vases, notliing imaginable can be prettier. It grows in any half shady, slightly damp situation, and is therefore valuable for covering unsightly places with masses of verdure. AVe re- member recently of seeing it in tlic greenliouse of Jas. Arnold, Esq., of New Bedford, where, placed just under the front stage, it had run over and completely concealed the hot water pipes. AUGUST. 6b6 From the situations where it is found naturally on old ■walls, it likes a dryisli soil ; a too rich and moist compost will not keep the plant in vigor : any old rubbish, with a mixture of a little good loam, will answer, and if placed Avhere it can have a moist atmosphere, it will run and cover over a large space in a few months. Any locality will suit it, though a half shady one is best. FLORICULTURAL NOTICES. New Bedding Geraniums. — A new class of bedding gera- niums has been introduced by the Englisli cultivators. Mr. D. Beaton, of Kingston, the well known and indefatigable horticulturist, after some years of practical experiment and cross hybridization, with a view to obtain a neat dwarf and compact habit upon the otherwise thinly branched and lanky style "of the old "Nosegay," lias succeeded in his object, and has produced two seedlings, (allied to the Nosegay section,) which are, with respect to habit of growth, all that need be desired, and strikingly adapted for all the objects of decora- tive gardening, in beds, groups, vases, boxes, combining in a very high degree every essential feature of growth for varied effect, with the distinctively picturesque and beautiful shades of light crimson and lake, so long desired as medium tints between the inordinate profusion of scarlets, and tlie opposites of rosy pink and salmon, thus presenting to the eye a charm- ing relief from the dense scarlet trusses of the scarlet Zonale tribe to the open and gracefully curved flower lobes of softer carmine and lake crimson, peculiar to the Imperial Crimson and Model Nosegay. Having no rivals in habit and color combined, they may be regarded as new features in decorative gardening ; and, from their long continued and long endur- ing bloom, are worthy of a place in every flower garden where a classical arrangement in colors is united with a brill- iant and prolonged effect or display. The two varieties are described as follows : — 364 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Imperial Crimson. — In habit this variety is neat, dwarf, close, and compact, with a short-jointed style of growth ; and in these features it differs from the generality of the Zonale or scarlet section, by its constitutional tendency to retain these features through the whole season. Its foliage is also readily distinguished from the well-known bedding varieties by its comparatively smaller and remarkably neat, well-expanded leaves, of a healthy rich green thin texture, showing a faint darker zone in the centre, and in the mass forming a fine sheet-like leaf surface, above which the profusion of ample, yet compactly open and well-arranged conspicuous trusses of brilliant light carmine-crimson flowers are effective and dis- tinct from all others, in their rich yet graceful combination of flower heads, with narrower petals (thus presenting a very desirable and distinct feature from the close, heavy clusters of the Zonale scarlet section), which are produced in long- continued succession throughout the whole season, without any premature dropping of their flower-lobes, as in some vari- eties. This very ornamental kind is admirably adapted for villa gardens of medium or larger size, but especially for beds and groups in extensive flower gardens, where it offers a beau- tiful relief in color to the too prevalent uniform and monoto- nous dazzle of scarlet — the whole outline of the growth and bloom in this variety being less heavy, yet equally conspicuous above the leaf-surface, and apart from the absence of all stiff- ness in feature, and heaviness in effect, which is too much characteristic of the scarlet section ; the present variety is one of the first and finest productions of an intermediate character in growth and color, whose aggregate excellencies of habit, leaf, and flower have resulted in producing a most valuable and decorative plant, without a single detractive feature from its merit. The Model Nosegay. — This is also a fine habited variety of the nosegay section, of which it is the first true and thor- oughly adapted bedder, and in all respects an invaluable ob- ject for the flower garden arrangement, wherever the true theory or harmony of colors consulted, in the grouping of ornamental flowering plants in masses. It is a free, yet neat and vigorous growing plant, somewhat taller than the impe- AUGUST. ' 365 rial crimson, of a slender, branching, and compact style of growth, with comparatively medium-sized, thin, well expanded, dark green leaves, showing a zone of subdued darker tint. Its bloom is displayed in a profusion of compact, yet elegantly arranged, open trusses of spreading-petaled flowers, narrower- lobed than the Zonale scarlet section, of a richly-blended pink and lake color, presenting a chastened contrast to any higher or lower colors, and finely adapted for a middle avenue row, between lower and higher lines of the same color — in other words, between two scarlets of higher and lower growth ; it is less brilliant than the highest tint, but extremely elegant in its adaptation for contrast with darker and lighter shades. In its own softened brilliancy, it forms a beautiful medium bed or group, satisfying the eye witliout tiring it, and adding a charming relief to the higher-colored masses around it. Its compact growth fits it for alternate effect with scarlets in classic vases, or detached smaller groups on terrace borders, where, appropriately subordinate in color, it is beautiful in effect ; and above its many other essential features for decora- tion may be named its long-continued succession of bloom, and endurance upon the plant. ExocHORDA GRANDiFLORA . — TIlis beautiful shrub, which we recently figured and described, (p. 25,) as Spirsea grandi- flora, was exhibited at the Royal Botanic Society, at Regent's Park, April 20th, by Mr. Standish, who showed several cut branches laden with racemes of its conspicuous white flowers. This very oi^namental shrub, introduced a few years since by Mr. Fortune, is so thoroughly hardy that it was stated to have withstood 12° of frost without injury. If it stands our winters, as there can be but little doubt, it will be a grand acquisition. New Double Petunias. — The new double petunias are great improvements on the older kinds, both in size and color as well as freedom of bloom. We have now coming into flower several of the latest novelties, and they are truly beau- tiful. Their petals are broad and flat, and neatly arranged in consecutive rows so as to present a smooth and finely formed bloom of great substance. In some instances they have outer guard petals, like an anemone, the centre being 366 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. filled with smaller ones. In color tliej vary from tlie most intense crimson, through rose and lilac, to pure white, as well as veined and tinted flowers, and in their habit they are dwarf. . The following are the names and colors of some of the best : Eosettc. — Crimson, very double, dwarf habit. King of Crimsons. — Bright crimson, brighter than " Crim- son King." Venosum. — White, veined with rose, large. Atroroseum. — Fine rose, good form. Crimson Gem. — Bright crimson, with white centre. Rosea alba — Rose, clearly mottled witli white. Alba magniflora. — Beautiful form, very fragrant. Clerodendron Bungei. — Tliis easily cultivated and beauti- ful species, introduced by Mr. Fortune, from China, is one of the best of the group. The other species are natives of warm climates, and require the heat of the stove as well as consid- erable skill to bloom them well. C. Bungei is quite hardy in England. Here it succeeds with ordinary attention in the greenhouse, and Vdooms freely plunged or planted out in the open border in spring. The heads of the flowers are large, of a deep pink, quite fragrant, and have a very ornamental effect. Farfugium GRANDE. — Auioug tlic Ornamental foliaged plants this liolds a very high rank. It is also one of Mr. Fortune's acquisitions from the North of China, and hardy in England, perhaps hardy here. A fine specimen in our collection is now so strikingly beautiful as to attract general admiration. It has very large round angular-shaped evergreen leaves, sometimes more than two feet in circumference, of a pecul- iarly bright enamel green, copiously blotclied all over with patches of clear yellow, having no apparent relation to the veins. These leaves stand on woolly footstalks, twelve to fifteen inches long, and form a inagnificent tuft of surpassing beauty. The flowers are insignificant, the attraction of the plant being in its exquisite foliage. As a vase plant, whether hardy or not, it forms one of the showiest objects, and no col- lection should be without it. It delights in a cool atmosphere and slight sliade, and the ease with which it is cultivated will render it doubly desirable. Fine specimens, at a late sale of AUGUST. 367 Mr. Fortune's plants, in London, commanded live pounds sterling each. Gesnera cinnabarina. — This new and very handsome species was recently exhibited at the Massachusetts Horticul- tural Society, by Mr. W. C. Strong. The specimen was well grown, and its soft velvety, crimson-tinted and ample fohage, heightened by its long racemes of brilliant scarlet flowers, rendered it highly attractive. It requires a high temperature to grow it well, but as its season of vegetation is in the sum- mer, a vigorous start in the spring will bring it into the warm season, when ordinary greenhouse culture will be sufiicient to ensure a rich foliage and ample bloom. When proper heat is applied, it flowers throughout the early winter months, and its rich foliage and brilliant blossom? are highly decorative and ornamental. It is allied to the G. zebrina, and requires similar treatment. LiLLiPUT Dahlias. — This is another new class, being dwarf in habit, and with small flowers of the size of the ranunculus, and in shape equal to the show flowers. For small borders and for bouquets they promise to be highly elfective. 465. Epigynum leucobotrys Nutt. White-fruited Epigy- NUM. (Vacciniace^.) Bengal. A greenhouse plant; growing four feet hi^;h ; with white (lowers; appearing in summer; in- creased by layers ; grown in heatli ^oil. JJot. Mag., 18jy, pi. 5103. A very handsome addition to our greenhouses, described by Mr. Nuttall, who received it from his nephew, Mr. Booth, as an "Evergreen shrub, seven or eight feet high, very erect, with verticillato branches, a tuberous root, almost like a yam." It produces an abundance of terminal racemes of conic pentagonal flowers, in summer, succeeded by waxlike berries in the autumn. (^Bot. Mag-., March.) 466. Sonerilla margaritacea Lincll. Pearl-spotted Son- erilla. (Melastomacese.) India. A hothouse plant ; growing six inches hiih ; with pink flowers; appearing in spring; increased by cuttings; grown in leaf mould, peat and sand. IJot. Mag. 1839, pi. 5H)i. A beautiful little plant with small, narrow, ovate acuminate leaves, regularly spotted with white, the stems and petioles of the leaves being scarlet. Among the new variegated plants, 368 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. the S. margaritaca has been one of the most admired at the London exhibitions, and as it is of easy cultivation must be a fine addition to our collections. • {Bot Mag., March.) 467. BiLBERGIA MACROCALYX Hook. LONG-CALYXED BlL- BERGiA. (Bromeliacege.) Brazil. A stove plant; growing four feet high; with greenish flowers; appearing in summer; increased by offsets. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi 5n4. This is a new species of the Bromeliaceous plants, remark- able for the rich coloring of their bracts, or spathes. The present species is very remarkable in this respect, having very long, rich scarlet bracts, surrounding the spikes of long, greenish, tubular flowers. The leaves are a foot long, thick and fleshy. In every complete collection most of the species are well worthy a place. (^Bot. Mag., May.) 468. Gesneria purpurea Paxt. and Lindl. Purple-flow- ered Gesneria. (Gesneriacese.) Rio Janeiro. A hothouse plant ; growing one foot high ; with spotted pink flowers ; appearing in winter ; in- creased by cuttings ; grown in leaf mould, sand and peat. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi. 5U5. A very striking species, having very dense spikes of pink flowers, spotted with crimson. At Kew, the last winter, this plant has been the pride and ornament of the stoves through- out the season. Dr. Lindley, who first described it, says it is one of the most striking of the whole race to which it belongs, and Dr. Hooker heartily concurs with him in that opinion. (^Bot. Mag., May.) 469. Rhododendron Wilsoni Nutt. Wilson's Rhododen- dron. Garden hybrid. A greenhouse plant; growing two feet high; with Mush crimson flowers; appearing in spring ; increased by grafting ; grown in peat soil. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi. 5116. A very beautiful variety, raised between R. ciliatum and R. glaucum, having rather loose heads of very delicate blush-col- ored flowers ; as a greenhouse plant it is a fine addition. {Bot. Mag., May.) 470. ^sculus indica Colehrook MSS. Indian Horse Chest- nut. (Hippocastaneae.) India. A hardy tree ; growing forty feet high ; with white and orange flowers ; appearing in spring ; in- creased by grafting ; grown in any garden soil. Bot. Mag., 18J9, pi. 5117. A magnificent species, described by Dr. Wallich in 1828, AUGUST. 369 but now introduced for the first time. It is found in the mountains of Kamoon, at elevations of 8,000 to 10,000 feet. The present plant was raised from seeds sent by Col. Ban- bury, from the North of India, to his brother. The tree, which is sixteen feet high, flowered last summer. It has proved entirely hardy in England. The flowers are in very large and dense clusters, pure white, with two brilliant, orange-colored spots in the centre. If hardy in our climate, it will be a most valuable acquisition. (^Bot. Mag. May.) ioeral %^\\tt%. Great Rose Exhibition. — The second grand annual meeting of the National Rose Show took place on Thursday last, in the Hanover Square Rooms, and notwithstanding that in many localities there is as yet a scarcity of blooms, owing to the first growths having been cut off by frost in April last, the whole of the large room devoted to the exhibition was literally filled with magnificent examples of the diflferent varieties of this queen of flowers. Two tables, running the entire length of the great concert room, were covered with charming boxes full of Roses, both in the shape of sin- gle blooms and of exhibitions of three trusses of each variety. In the cen- tre of one of the tables, and placed at intervals along its whole length, were groups of Roses in pots, from Messrs. Paul, and along the middle of the corresponding table were multitudes of beautiful little plants, chiefly Hybrid Perpetuals, all on the Manetti Stock, from Mr. Francis, of Hartford. The orchestra was ornamented with fine foliaged plants, liberally contribu- ted by Messrs. Veitch. In the Nurserymen's class, the best collection of one hundred trusses, of three blooms each, came from Messrs. Paul, who sent beautiful examples of Devoniensis, Paul Perras, Jules Margottin, a magnificent rose, large and fine ; Pierre Jaucens, dark velvety rose ; charming examples of crested Moss ; Lamarque, Madame Laffay, Dr. Lepestre, Madame Place, Solfaterre, Triumphe d'Avranches, bright rose, not very double, but showy; Souvenir d'un Ami, with an unusual amount of color in it; Madeline, white suffused with pink ; Blairii No. 2, a very fine rose ; Madame de Manoel, George Cuvier, Raphael, Transon Goubault, a fine deep rose, full and fragrant; Cardinal Patrizzi, deep velvety crimson,; Madame Pauline Labronte, Ohl, an old but still favorite sort ; Panach^e d'Orl^ans, one of the few striped kinds, none of which are remarkable either for form or beauty ; Triomphe de Beaut6, Narcisse, pale yellow ; Victor Trouillard, one of the few fine recent additions to deep velvety crimsons ; Cynthia, Brennus, Cab- bage Moss, Lord Palmerston, d«ep rose, full and good ; Madame Vidot and VOL. XXV. — NO. VIII. 24 370 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. Madame Rivers, both nearly of the same color, delicate pink, and both ex- cellent of their kinds ; Prince Leon, one of the best of roses ; General Pelissier, not sufficiently blown; Col. Rougemont, a larger and by some considered a finer rose than Baronne Prevost, which it greatly resembles ; Madame Masson, one of the best of its class ; Madame Ducher ; Souvenir de Leveson Gower, very beautiful deep rose ; Louise Peyronny, lilac ; Duchess of Norfolk, a little loose, but still a first-class rose ; Comtesse de Segur, white ; Gloire de Dijon, bronzy yellow ; Pauline Lansezeur, rich full deep rose ; Charles Duval, Joan of Arc, an old but good variety ; Count Boubert, Madame Hardy, white ; Triomphe de Beaux Arts, a deep velvety crimson Hybrid Perpetual, not very double, but somewhat novel in color; Latour d'Auvergne, bright rose ; Paul Ricaut, Mademoiselle Therese Ap- pert, pale lilac rose ; Bougere, Kean, a favorite old kind ; Triomphe de Paris, rosy crimson, in this instance showing a green eye ; Laure Ramond, a sort somewhat resembling M. Vidot ; William Jesse, Baronne Prevost, Eveque de Nimes, nearly as brilliant as General Jacqueminot ; Telemaque, Paul Dupuy, Adam, Old Cabbage, Bath White Moss, Baronne de Wasse- naer, deep lilac tinged with rose ; Boule de Nanteuil, one of our best old deep lead-colored kinds ; M. Victor Jacquin, Duke of Cambridge, a good full dark colored Rose ; Auguste Guinoisseau, large and loose but showy ; Queen of Denmark, Lord Raglan, perhaps the best of all the brilliant scar- let kinds ; Gloire de Parthenay, Caroline de Sansal, Chenedol6, rich and fine ; M. Domage, large and beautiful ; Madame Zoetmans, large white ; Felicity Parmentier, delicate pink; Gloire des Mousseuses, large fine Moss; Mrs. Elliott; Souchet, brilliant crimson; M. de Cambaceres, fine full deep rosy lilac ; M. Willermoz, pale yellow, with a salmon centre ; General Jacqueminot, with blossoms at least five inches across, and very brilliant ; Mathurin Regnier, delicate pink, good ; Noemi ; Triomphe de I'Exposition, crimson, faulty in the centre, but showy ; Charles Lawson, one of the best of roses, large and double ; William Griffiths, G6ant de Batailles, Lafontaine, a large coarse kind ; General Simpson, Louis Chaix, a fine comparatively new sort, which should be in every collection ; M. Knorr, Dr. Deilthem, Gen. Castellane, one of the handsomest of bright rosy crimsons; Dr. Juillard, Coupe d'H^b6, Lion des Combats, Duchess of Sutherland, and Souvenir de Malmaison. From Mr. Francis, who also showed in this class, came pretty blooms of Persian Yellow, the most striking of its color ; Cloth of Gold, White Bath Moss, Col. Rougemont, large and fine ; Gen. Jacqueminot, Prince Leon, Gen. Castellane, and Elise Sauvage, pale yellow. In the class of fifty varieties Messrs. Cant and Tiley had the best collec- tions. In these we remarked beautiful blooms of Boule de Nanteuil, Joan of Arc, La Ville de Bruxelles, lilac rose, large and fine ; Louis Chaix, Victor Trouillard, deep velvety crimson ; Gloire de Dijon, Prince Regent, Comte de Nanteuil, Triomphe de I'Exposition, velvety shaded crimson; Mathurin Regnier, Souvenir d'un Ami, Etendard des Amateurs, crimson shading off" to rose; Chen^dole, M. Rivers, Gloire des Mousseuses, General Castellane, Triomphe de Paris, Ariel, M. de Cambaceres, Bacchus, a good AUGUST. 371 brilliant crimson ; Kean, Comte de Paris, M. Stolz, Pauline Lansezeur, rose shading off to lilac ; Paul Ricaut, Prince Leon, Charles Lawson, M. Bravy, cream colored ; Sir J. Franklin, dark rose ; General Jacqueminot, large and fine ; William Griffiths, Devoniensis, Colonel Rougemont, Emperor Napo- leon, deep velvety crimson, nearly one of the darkest of its class ; Lafontaine, rough and changeable in color ; Julie, M. Vidot, Duke of Cambridge, rosy crimson ; William Jesse, Prince de la Moskwa, a very dark kind approach- ing to black ; Solfaten-e, large and fine ; Souvenir des Braves, rich rose, but not very full ; Souvenir de Leveson Gower, an excellent rose ; Caroline de Sansal, Lord Raglan, M. Knorr, rosy centre, shading off to lilac ; Alphonse de Lamartine, lilac, medium size, and of fine form ; Jules Margottin, Sou- venir de Malmaison, very large ; Acidalie, an old but still good rose ; Gloire de Dijon, with "more pink in it than usual, and others. It may be remarked, that those that came from Bath were for the most part very large and fine. In the class of twenty-four varieties Messrs. Frazer, of Lea Bridge, con- tributed the best collection. It consisted of Col. Rougemont, Due d'Ossuna, carmine, large and fine ; Duchess of Norfolk, Duke of Cambridge, Anna Alexieff, a new rose of considerable promise ; Generals Castellane and Jacqueminot, Jules Margottin, Lord Raglan, Louis Chaix, M. Heraud, fine carmine ; M. de Cambaceres, M. Recamier, flesh colored, changing to white ; Madlle. Ther^se Appert, delicate rose ; Madlle. Alice Leroy, deli- cate pink, large and fine ; Pauline Lansezeur, Prince Leon, Souvenir des Braves, bright red, large, and showy ; S. de Leveson Gower, deep rose, large, and double ; Triomphe de I'Exposition, bright reddish crimson, large and finely formed ; Triomphe des Beaux Arts, deep violet crimson ; Victor Trouillard, Wm. Griffiths, and Devonensis. In these and other collections, for the names of the flowers in which we cannot spare room, we observed charming trusses of the following varieties : Hybrid Perpetuals. — Madame Vidot, Duchess of Norfolk, Madame Heraud, Madame Hector Jacquin, Victor Trouillard, Madame Masson, Duchesse d'Orleans, Comte du Nanteuil, Cardinal Patrizzi, Madame Place, Lady Stuart, Glorie de Vitry, Mad. Knorr, General Simpson, Gen. Castel- lane, Glorie de Parthenay, Panachee d'Orleans, Mad. de Cambaceres, Prince Leon, Geant de Batailles, Mathurin Regnier, Lord Raglan, Caroline de Sansal, William Griffiths, Noemi, Jules Margottin, Mad. Rivers, Triomphe de L'Exposition, Louise Peyronny, Auguste Mie, Baronne Prevost, Lion des Combats, Gen. Pelissier, Gen. Jacqueminot, and Joan of Arc. Gallicas. — Transon Goubault, Cynthie, Boula de Nanteuil, Colonel Coombes, Latour I'Auvergne, Prince Regent, Dido, Ohl, Kean. Bourbons. — Acidalie, Sou- venir de la Malmaison, Coup6 d'Hebe, [?]. Hybrid Chinas. — Brennus, Ch6nedol6, Victor Hugo, Madeleine, Paul Perras, Mad. Recamier. Teas. — Souvenir d'un Ami, Narcisse, Gloire de Dijon, Mad. Willermoz, Bougere, and Devoniensis. The following list contains some of the very finest, selected from the whole exhibition : — Blush. — Mad. Vidot, Mad. Rivers, Duchesse d'Orleans, Auguste Mie, (deep blush,) Caroline de Sansal, and Mathurin Regnier. Scarlet or Dark Crimson. — Lord Raglan, Gen. Jacqueminot, Lion des 372 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. Combats, Gen. Castellane, Prince Leon, Paul Ricaut, and Sir J. Frank- lin. Rose. — Col. Rougemont, Mad. Hector Jacquin, Jules Margottin, William Griffiths, Gloire de Vitry, Prince's Imperial, coarse but showy, Coupe d'H6b6, and Paul Perras. Yellow. — Cloth of Gold, some tolerably fine blooms of which were exhibited, Decazes, and Persian Yellow. Of Whites there is still a deficiency ; the best are, Dr. Henon, Princess Clem- entina, the old White Provins, Louise Maqnau, and Beaut6 de Melan. Stripes were not good; among them we noticed Panach6e d'Orlfeans, and CEillet Parfait. Among Moss Roses we have little to recommend beyond the usual well known kinds ; there were, however, some good blooms of the White Bath.— ( Garc/. Chron., 1859, p. 542.) Kew Gardens. — Dr. Hooker's annual report of these celebrated Gar- dens is just published, and we find it so interesting that we copy a portion of it to show the progress of gardening in Great Britain : — In the present report I shall continue to view the several branches of the establishment under the above-mentioned aspects, of gratifying the public and giving information and aid to the practical and the scientific man ; but more detail being required on each of these heads, together with some ac- count of the method of conducting these departments, and the limitation of demands upon them, I adopt the following more methodical sub-division : — I. The Staff and its Organization ; II. The Botanic Gardens ; III. The Pleasure Grounds ; IV. The Museums ; V. The Library and Herbarium ; VI. List of Donors, &c. I. Staff and its Organization. 1. Director. — The general superintendence of the whole establishment devolves upon the director, who is responsible for the good keep and effi- cient working of every part. He conducts all the correspondence, which, as regards the colonies and our own and other foreign possessions, is very great. He daily visits the gardens and houses, directs the exchanges of growing plants and seeds, prepares the reports, revises the estimates, and recommends all alterations and improvements. Once a week he inspects and signs the bill vouchers and accounts of the Garden, Museufti, Library, and Herbarium. He selects foremen and gardeners for colonial and other establishments. He supplies the names of plants and their products to manufacturers, merchants and druggists, nurserymen, amateurs, and travel- lers in all parts of the world ; and he has hitherto been able to satisfy all requisitions of this kind, if at all moderate, and without drawing any dis- tinction between those applicants who had benefited the gardens and others. But it is evident that these demands may become so numerous as to require some such regulations as were found indispensable in the matter of living specimens of plants, to which I shall hereafter allude. In the performance of all the above-mentioned duties, and especially in the charge of the Li- brary and Herbarium, the director is aided by the assistant director. 2. Cdrator. — He takes the practical superintendence of the cultivation in all parts of the botanic garden, the stoves, and greenhouses, and sees that the tickets are attached to the living plants ; he has the supervision of the AUGUST. 373 plants and seeds received and sent away, and of all the arrangements con- nected with the hire and discharge of the foremen, gardeners, laborers, &c. It is his duty to prepare and balance the accounts, to keep an accurate list of the implements, of the coals,, coke, soil, pots, and gravel required, and of horse and cart hire; he examines candidates for employment, and draws up their certificates. He is assisted by a sub-curator. 3. Foremen. — There are seven who devote their energies to as many departments of the garden. Each has a set of gardeners and laborers un- der him, for whose conduct during working hours he is answerable to the director and curator; as he is for his implements, and for the safety, order, and good culture of the collections. The foremen's responsibilities are very heavy, especially those of the individuals who are charged with the propagation of plants, (the culture of numerous kinds, both hothouse, green- house and hardy, requiring very varied modes of treatment), or with the decoration of the ground in a manner to gratify the public, by producing much floral effect over an exceedingly large area, and for many months of the year. It must be remembered that at Kew plants of all kinds, and es- pecially the most difficult to grow, are constantly asked for ; and the fore- men are further ordered to render an account of a vast multitude of seeds, roots and living plants, (tha greater part often proving unworthy of cultiva- tion), which are presented to the gardens. The foremen superintend by turns the Gardeners' Library, the Reading-Room, the plant houses on Sun- days, and the night work ; and they have often other similar occasional du- ties to perform. To each of the following departments a foreman is assigned. a A foreman superintends the double propagating house. No. 22 ; the hardy ferns in No. 21 ; the tropical ferns, begonias and rare palms in the double house No, 12 ; the aroidcEe, ginger, and root spices in No. 19 ; the cacti, aloes, and succulent plants in No. 7. Ha has the raising of all hot- house plants, and of seeds that require heat; he personally superintends the packing of Ward-cases, and of the plants s^nt abroad, and keeps accurate lists of what are received and given away. h. A foreman has charge of the orchids in Nos. 4, 5 and 16 ; of the ornamental and variegated-leaved stove plants, water lilies, nepenthes, &c., in No. 6 ; of the tropical fruit trees and spices, as mangosteen, cloves, nut- meg, &c., which demand great care and skill : also of the plants in No. 9. c. The conservatories devoted to the trees and shrubs of our Colonies, and of other countries possessing temperate climates, requiring protection, and contained in Nos. 12 and 18, are under another foreman, whose duty it also is to keep the large double house. No. 10, well filled always with orna- mental azaleas, fuchsias, roses, &c. d. The Palm House and new Victoria House, from the great size of the former, and of the plants they both contain, demand a foreman's entire time. The operations here performed are very laborious, retubbing, cleaning, and watering daily by hoses ; while the care of a somewhat complicated appar- atus for heating, syringing, and ventilating is attached to this department. e. A foreman is charged with the hardy herbaceous plants (some 6,000 species), which are scientifically arranged. He raises all seeds of out-dooa 374 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. plants, and maintains a large stock of duplicates, his department being the oftenest applied to by European and some Colonial gardens. f. A foreman is entrusted with the flower beds of various sizes of the entire garden, no fewer than 400 ; and to stock them properly during sum- mer and autumn, demands on an average a supply of 40,000 plants. The majority are preserved as roots or cuttings during winter ; and g-reat industry and forethought are required to secure a proper supply of bedding-out plants in our changeful climate, when a night's frost often cuts oflF the labors of many months. Besides this charge, he keeps a large number of well-grown fuchsias, roses, geraniums, &c., to be sunk during the summer in the lawns for their special ornament. g. The trees lawns, walks, clumps, rhododendrons, and the flowering shrubs of the lawns and walls, demand the whole energies of a foreman as well aa a great many laborers, varying in number with the season and weather. Gardeners coming for improvement are invariably young men, who would otherwise, perhaps, be apprenticed ; and they are selected for their good character, promising abilities, and fair education. Each must bring one or more satisfactory written characters, and fill up a printed set of in- quiries as to age, and attainments in gardening, reading, writing, arithmetic, mensuration, &c., &,c. The nominal period for which they enter is two years, during which they may, by good conduct, energy, and ability, rise gardeners at 12s. to assistant foreman at 18s. ; some of our best foremen having begun as gardeners, while others have been sent to colonies, &c. Laborers. — Their number necessarily varies with the season and the work. The Royal Gardens also employ one policeman, three liveried con- stables, and two constant gatekeepers ; two female attendants in the ladies' cloak rooms ; a label writer, and several stokers and engine men. When speaking of the duties of foremen, gardeners, &c., it must be ob- served, that it is only up to noon (the dinner hour) that they can exclusively and uninterruptedly do the work of the gardens. On the admission of the public, besides the inevitable disturbance caused by a large body of people, with the need that everything should be in its place, and that no watering or inconveniencing operation should then go on, it is essential that the men be so dispersed as to keep a sufficient eye to the safety of the collections, the closing of conservatory doors, &c. Thus it often happens, especially when the visitors are very numerous, that the actual gardening work is more or less restricted to half a day. II. The Botanic Gardens. On the transference in 1841 of these beautiful grounds by the Royal family to the public, the Botanic Gardens consisted only of eleven acres, and were extended by successive additions till, in 1847, they had reached their present dimensions of seventy-five acres ; this is exclusive of the pleasure grounds, which I shall hereafter mention. As regards the number of visitors, beginning with 9,174 in 1841, the increase has been gradual to 405,376 in 1858 (exclusive of those to the Herbarium and Library) ; while the generally good behavior of this mass of people, often inconveniently AUGUST. 3T5 crowding the plant-houses and museums, the eagerness with which they inspect the more curious and interesting plants and their products, and read the notices and explanations given in the Guide books and attached to the objects in the museum, all evince that such privileges minister food to the mind, as well as health to the body. The greatest number of persons admitted in one day to the garden (where they have free access to all parts), has been 13,761. The best attended months, as may be supposed, are June, July, and August, during which we have numbered so many as 267,223 persons. The fewest visitors are in November, December, and February, when they have been so low as 4,679. For the further gratification of the public, the First Commissioners have, during the last three years, obtained an increased grant for the higher keep and ornament of the gardens. More flower borders have been designed, the walks are gravelled with a better material, new shrubberies and clumps have been formed, and standard flowering trees and shrubs have been planted with an excellent effect. All the hothouses and greenhouses are progressing satisfactorily, both in beauty and usefulness. Of late years, some of the more remarkable and curious plants have become conspicuous, from their increased size and more perfect maturity of flower and fruit. The palms unquestionably stand un- rivalled ; as do the ferns, particularly the tree ferns ; the cactuses, agaves, aloes, and other succulent plants, and the bananas. Among the last is the most extraordinary plant in all our collections, the gigantic Abyssinian banana (musa ensete), described and figured by no author, save the cele- brated Bruce, and now first introduced to Europe through W. C. M. Plow- den, Esq., the British Consul at Massowah. This striking herbaceous plant has attained in the palm stove, in five years' time, a height of more than thirty feet, with a stem a seven and a half feet in circumference, and leaves, of which the blade, independent of the stalk or petiole, is sixteen feet long ! It also now shows promise of a flower-spike, corresponding with its foliage. The orchideous plants, under a recently -appointed and very skilful special cultivator, are improving remarkably. The singular pitcher plants, the noble zamias, the cycads and their allies, the rice-paper plant of Formosa, the wonderful lattice-leaf (ouvirandra fenestralis) brought by the Rev. William Ellis from the lakes of Madagascar, the traveller's tree (urania speciosa), described by the same writer, the lace bark of Ja- maica, the rare cinchona, or best Peruvian bark, the noble collection of Sikkim Himalayan rhododendrons, to say nothing of objects of lesser note, particularly of the almost innumerable hardy and out-of-door plants, have proved highly attractive to all ranks of people. The greenhouse coniferse, and other trees and shrubs of temperate climates that require protection in winter, alone show too evident symptoms of deterioration, caused by want of suitable house accommodation, which, we trust, will soon be remedied. The applications for growing plants, seeds, and museum objects are so nu- merous that it is sometimes difficult to meet even all those which proceed from persons who have sent valuable contributions. As a general rule, we profess to give only in exchange for what is received ; or as a return for 376 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTURB. those facilities of increasing the Kew collections and diminishing their expenses, which have been freely afforded by many departments of Govern- ment, by public companies, and private individuals. Colonial gardens and similar Government establishments are considered to have a very early claim for duplicates, and in certain cases it is well to take the initiative with them. But is plainly more to their advantage than to that of the Royal Gardens, that such intercommunication should proceed on the princi- ple of exchange, it beihg the duty of the Colonial gardens especially to communicate with those of the mother country. An active correspondence and interchange of this nature are the measure of the usefulness and suc- cess of these establishments ; and it is only needful to refer to the eminent services rendered by the Botanic Gardens of Ceylon, Calcutta, Victoria, Jamaica, and the Mauritius, as cases in point. Another class of demands is for cut flowers and leaves, for flower-painting, decoration, and for prepar- ing skeleton specimens. These last requests were for a time largely granted, and they consequently multiplied far beyond the power of supply; so that they are now generally refused, except when preferred by persons who have done us service, or have other claims. I may remark, that they usually came from individuals who had no such claim, and were as often for the commonest shrubs, trees, and weeds of the roadside as for the rarest stove plants. Had the applications been generally granted, various plants, both in the gardens and houses, would have been materially damaged ; and as no more men than are absolutely required are kept at Kew, to have em- ployed them in selecting, packing, and despatching parcels of leaves and flowers would have seriously deranged their daily operations. The hours of admission to the Royal Gardens are from 1 p. m. till dusk on week days, and from 2 p. m. on Sundays. On Christmas day only they are wholly closed. Incessantly are applications, personal and written, made for leave to visit the gardens before 1 p. m. ; but they are necessarily refused, except to per- sons who have actual business or other claims to be admitted. Considering that, as previously explained, the whole of the work in the houses and mu- seums must be concluded before noon (the dinner hour for the men), it is obvious that the exclusion of the general public till 1 p. m. must be rigidly enforced ; otherwise the foremen cannot be answerable for the safety of their respective collections, or the steady working of their gardeners, who are often addressed, and are in many ways interrupted in their duties, by strangers. Large schools are admitted under certain regulations, namely, that the children be divided into groups of ten to twelve, each with a suit- able guardian, so that they do not incommode other visitors, and that the houses, museums, and walks may not be inconveniently crowded. The public are forbidden to carry baskets of provision or parcels into the gar- dens, or large reticules which may excite suspicion, or similar articles which facilitate the concealment of specimens. Connected with the garden establishment is a very important feature — the Gardeners' Library and Reading-room. It consists of two small apart- ments, adjoining the director's ofiice, and contains a selection of the more AUGUST. 377 useful works on Horticulture, Elementary Botany, Geography, and Physics, Agricultural Chemistry, Landscape Gardening, and a few volumes of Voy- ages and Travels, together with two Horticultural Weekly Journals, some maps, and a small supply of stationery for the use of readers. It is ope.: every evening for the gardeners, under the direction of the Curator and Foremen, who are responsible, by turns, for the safety of the books and good conduct of the men. The foremen also, in rotation, attend to the fires, prepare the rooms, collate the books with the catalogue, and dct as librarians. The men, on entering the reading-room, inscribe their names in a book kept on purpose ; and when their period of retirement from the service of the gar- dens arrives, the amount of attendance at the library is considered in draw- ing up their testimonials. Lastly, in connexion with the gardens proper, I have to notice the Guide books of the garden ; sixteen editions, each of three thousand copies, of the " Garden Guide," have been sold, between the years 1846 and 1858; and three large impressions of the more recent " Museum Guide." ni. The Pleasure Grounds, or Arboretum. This large and ornamental piece of ground consists of two hundred and fifty acres, separated by a wire fence from the Botanic Gardens, and open- ing into them by four gates. It was placed under my charge in 1846, since which time it has been laid out primarily as an arboretum, for the cultivation of every tree and shrub which will stand the open air in this climate. An active and intelligent foreman superintends it, who has one assistant, one efficient gardener, and the necessary supply of laborers. The pleasure grounds are daily open to the public from the middle of May till the last day of September, at the same hours as, and under similar restrictions to those of, the Botanic Gardens. Among the more remarkable natural and artificial features of the Pleasure Grounds, I have to report briefly on — 1. The Arboretum. 2. The Nurseries. 3. The Lake (in pro- cess of formation). 4. The Queen's Garden. There will further be the great Conservatory (if sanctioned by Parliament), and the Flag-staff" of "Douglas Pine," (Abies Douglassii) from British Columbia, a magnificent spar, one hundred and eighteen feet long, which has been presented to the Gardens during the preparation of this report, and which it is proposed to erect on a hill in these grounds. 1. Arboretum. — The peculiarities of the climate of England render it singularly favorable for the growth of a large collection of the trees and shrubs of temperate regions, from almost all parts of the globe ; and hence arose the eminent desirableness of attaching to the Royal Gardens such an arboretum as should be worthy of Great Britain, and serviceable to its ex- tensive possessions and foreign relations. In pursuance of this object the best suited localities in these grounds have been devoted to a classified collection of hardy trees and shrubs, amounting to about 3,500 kinds (inclu- ding marked varieties), and they are mostly in a thriving condition. Some years must, however, elapse ere the general effect of the whole can be fully seen, and when the groups of different pines, oaks, planes, beeches, ashes, birches, poplars, willows, &c., each forming a clump of allied but 378 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. distinct kinds, will produce a beautiful variety of foliage in well-disposed masses, enabling also the visitor to compare the character of a vast number of carefully-named trees adapted to this climate, and to judge of their effect in the lawn, the park, or the forest. 2. Nurseries. — There are two in the Arboretum; one specially* intended for planting the Kew grounds with ornamental trees and shrubs, and rearing a stock for exchange ; the other (formed at the desire of the First Commissioner in 185.5), to supply the metropolitan parks. Both are profitable ; and the latter has proved to be a very useful part of this estab- lishment. In 18.56 it furnished 1,010 trees (chiefly planes and elms); in ' part 1857, 4,100 trees; and in 1858, 2,475; the sizes varying from six to fourteen feet ; while our own Pleasure Ground Arboretum sent to the parks of the metropolis, with the sanction of the Board, in 1857, 9,289, and in 1858, 2,814 trees and shrubs of great variety, besides famishing the grounds at Kew with no fewer than 18,000 in the year just closed. 3. The Lake. — A sheet of water in such extensive and noble grounds as those of Kew, had long been a desideratum. It is now in process of being supplied ; advantage having been taken of a depressed spot, so situ- ated in respect to walks and trees, that nothing would be sacrificed, while its proximity to the Thames would allow of its being filled and emptied at pleasure, by taking advantage of the tides. The position is singularly fa- vorable, for it borders one side of the noblest avenue in the grounds, (that which conducts from the palm house to the river,) and it will be in view both from the palm house and the new conservatory. Hitherto, 16,000 yards of stones have been removed for the repair of the public roads, not only at no expense, but with considerable advantage to this establishment, for a bed of excellent gravel was thus discovered, which served to renovate the walks in the whole garden. Other 10,000 yards will be required to form the terrace of the new conservatory at but a short distance ; after which a very trifling sum will suffice for the removal of the remaining soil, and for constructing the conduit to the Thames. — ( Gard. Chron.) Cinerarias and Chrysanthemums. — At few places are cinerarias and chrysanthemums grown in such perfection as they are at Putney Heath, by Shrimpton, Mr. Doxat's gardener. Some account of his mode of managing them may therefore not be unacceptable. In the case of cinerarias, they are cut down after blooming and set in a cold frame or pit, (under a north wall is preferable), and shaded from the midday sun. As soon as they have pushed sufficiently to enable them to be divided, the offsets are removed and put into 3-inch pots, in very light sandy soil, and kept rather close for a few days, attending to watering and shading, &c. When rooted they are sprinkled overhead morning and evening, to encourage growth. When strong they are shifted into 48-inch pots, given weak manure water and plenty of air, but still shaded. They should never be allowed to suffer from want of water. As they fill the pots with roots they are potted on, using pots according to the size of the plants. When they begin to start into growth they are pinched back, so as to make them break strongly from the AUGUST. 379 bottom. After they have made shoots long enough the latter are pegged out so as to form a spreading plant, or otherwise, as may be required. By stopping them again the size is increased, and it prolongs the time of com- ing into bloom. Those who have no stock by them, or who wish to obtain fresh sorts, should lose no time now in ordering them from the nursery, so as to obtain nice little plants to start with, which will make fine specimens for all purposes, from a 4-inch pot up to a 10-inch one if required. The soil Mr. Shrimpton uses is turfy loam and stable dung, bulk for bulk, (laid together twelve months previously, and well turned at different times), with sand, the latter to secure a free open soil, and good drainage. They ought never to want for Avater when they require it. Cinerarias are very subject to the attacks of aphides, which must be destroyed as soon as perceived. For that purpose the following recipe has always been found effectual, viz., 4 oz. of tobacco and 1 lb. of soft soap to 5 gallons of soft water ; get all the strength out of the tobacco and dissolve the soft soap; then strain it through a coarse cloth to prevent dirt passing and thus injuring the plants. Carefully dip them into it, but not the pots. It will not only destroy but prevent fly from making its appearance. Should mildew attack them use sulphur, putting it on one day and washing it off the next. Well sprinkle the plants all over with it, it will not harm the foliage. By giving fiequent doses of manure water and attending to the above directions, plants will be produced which will repay every care bestowed on them. The chrysanthemums grown at this place, like the cinerarias, are remark- able not only for abundance of bloom, but for the health and beauty of the plants themselves, furnished as they are with foliage quite down to the pots. To ensure this the following points are attended to : When hot dry weather sets in the plants are well mulched with rotten dung, which prevents the sun's rays from scorching the little rootlets which may be found in multi- tudes just under the surface of the soil. If these get scorched or burned, the plants are almost sure to shed their lower leaves ; this is however easily avoided by the mulching just mentioned and frequent waterings, a practice which causes the plants to grow healthily and renders them ornaments to the garden, even when out of bloom. Pompones Mr. Shrimpton keeps in shady situations till September ; he stops them two or three times during the season, and they are supplied plentifully with water, taking care, if the mould should open or crack round the inside of the pot, to fill up the gap with a little finely sifted soil. If this is not attended to, water, when sup- plied, passes off between the soil and pot, and leaves the middle dry. An- other point requiring particular attention is not to allow the plants to get too high before they are stopped ; if this is neglected they do not break at the bottom or throw out laterals low enough to induce a handsome bushy habit. Mildew, to which the chrysanthemum is very subject, is kept down by sprinkling the plants with water, and then well powdering them with flowers of sulphur. To be effectual, however, this ought to be done imme- diately the pest makes its appearance ; for, if allowed to fairly establish it- self, it is very difficult to eradicate, and the plants never look so healthy afterwards. — [Gard. Chron., p. 563.) 380 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. LiNUM Graindiflorum. — I have observed in recent numbers of your paper some communications with regard to the vegetation of the seeds of this annual. I believe the difficulty is caused by the great quantity of mucilage which adheres to the seeds, and which may be removed by steep- ing them for a night in water, and then rubbing them between the hands with wet sand. This method, recommended to me by a French gardener, I have found to answer perfectly. — ( Gard. Chron.) Frekch mode of raising Tomatoes. — The best French gardeners are quite particular about stopping their plants, so that as nice a balance may be maintained between fruit and leaves as in a peach tree. They are not satisfied with mere topping as soon as there is plenty of flowers, and with pinching off laterals afterwards. Their method is this. As soon as a cluster of flowers is visible they top the stem down to the cluster, so that the flowers terminate the stem. The effect is that sap is immediately impelled into the two buds next below the cluster, which immediately push strongly, and presently produce another cluster of flowers each. The moment they are visible the branch to which they belong is also topped down to their level ; and this is done five times successively. The effect is to form stout dwarf bushes, not above eighteen inches high. In order to prevent their falling over, sticks or string are stretched horizontally along the rows so as to keep the plants tolerably upright. In addition to this, all laterals that have no flowers, and after the fifth topping, all laterals whatsoever are nip- ped off. In this way the ripe sap is directed into the fruit, which acquires a beauty, size, and excellence unattainable by other means, and we are assured that fourteen pounds of ripe tomatoes per plant, is no very unusual produce ; even sixteen pounds being known. Whether or not this exact method is suitable to our climate may be doubted ; but the soundness of its principle is beyond dispute. Five suc- cessive toppings are more than our short summers will justify, except in very hot dry places ; three we should consider quite enough ; for, although the fourth and fifth toppings would doubtless increase the quantity of fruit, yet there is little probability of such late fruit ripening well, and it must be safest to direct the energies of the plant to bear a smaller quantity of the highest excellence that our soil and climate can secure, in a species which grows best in a country where the summer heat rises to 100° and does not fall below 50°, with a mean in the warmest month of 77°. — (Gard. Chron.) Culture of Hyacinths. — Much has been written respecting the culture of hyacinths in the open ground, the greater portion of which has, however, been calculated to deter persons, dependent upon such sources of informa- tion, from attempting their growth. It is usual to state, that to grow a hya- cinth successfully, a very rich soil is absolutely necessary ; but it has just been shown that any well-drained garden soil is easily rendered suitable for its growth. If the soil is of a strong adhesive nature, and the plunging in pots not resorted to, add two inches of sharp sand, and as much well- decayed manure ; then dig the soil two feet deep with a steel fork, taking care to mix the sand and manure with the mould as the work proceeds* AUGUST. . 381 Friable loamy soils will require merely a liberal dressing of manure and deep digging ; and it will be found that the hyacinth will produce equally fine spikes of blossom in soil prepared thus, as when planted in more ex- pensive compost. The season for planting hyacinths in beds, in the open air, is from Sep- tember onwards. Select a dry day for putting in the bulbs ; and if the same can be chosen for the preparation of the soil, it will be in much better condition for the growth of the plant than if worked when wet. Plant in lines, nine inches by twelve inches apart, which will afford space between the plants, when up, to work a hoe for the destruction of weeds, and keeping the surface friable, to prevent the escape of moisture in dry weather. iosstp of tlje P014. The Season and Fruit in Illinois. — What a month we have had ! say counting from 4th of June to 4th of July. Frosts ! and right biting ones too, on the 4th and 5th of June, and quite a smart one on the llth of that month ; killing some field beans not up for the Jirst " June frost." Which one did it we can't say — but our Norway spruces and hemlocks — the former especially — suffered severely in the new growth; only scorched in the hemlocks, but both scorched and " lopped," as the boys say, in the Norways. My cornfield did not receive much damage — though early sweet corn, that had been twice cultivated, caught it severely ; and so did pole beans, vines, &c. But I have another chapter to add. We had a frost on the morning of the 4th inst. " Independence day" — whew ! who ever heard of such a thing. I was out looking for it at 4 A. M., but saw none — still, the corn leaves shoAved it plain enough. The mercury marked 38^° at sunrise, in a sheltered place. It was probably 2° lower out in the prairie, where my corn is. Notwithstanding the cold and unprecedented drouth, for the sea- son corn grotvs. We get some of the hottest sort of weather between the " northers ;" mercury above 90° twice, and near it several times. A medi- cal friend of ours, who is not fond of " frost or fire," will have it " Bob [Dr. Kinnicott's son] has reached the North Pole and left the door open behind him." Poor Bob! I fear he will be more tormented by the "punkies" as the New Englanders call them, than the cold, until next November, when he expects to be at Fort Simpson, in lat. 62° north. In his last letter from near Rainy Lake, Robert complains more of a spe- cies of Culex* than of the weather. On the 23d May, he found the first spring flowers, Epigsea, Sanguinaria and Hepatica, but no birds' nests, and not many birds. By the way, speaking of northern plants, I have two speci- mens of the Psoralea brachiata? of Douglas, the roots of which Bob brought from the plains on the west side of the Red River of the North * Whether playfully or not, T can't say — but he says it is the Culex damnosus. 382 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. near two years ago, and my plants are seedlings, I think, and if so I shall try and remember you, if you have it not. It is the " Navet de Prairie" or Prairie turnip of the voyageurs, and I have the plants from seed also. If Robert should be fortunate in this far northern expedition, he will doubtless add something to our flora, though the Fauna (borealis) is his principal aim, and much of his route being different from that of Sir John Richard- son, he stands a fair chance to enrich science with new species, and es- pecially satisfy his own longings to study the habits of birds of passage. Our strawberry season has just closed and we had enough — though frosts and the drouth, and especially upheaval of new plantations last winter and spring, conspired to diuiinish the crop. I don't like the Albany and shall say so. To me it has a sort of elder-berry flavor, but half concealed by the acid. I have only once before known half ripe cherries so abundant. But alas! the cedar birds take a//, before fit to gather. Currants anS goose- berries were pretty well cooked by the June frosts — still there will be enough for us and the robins too. Pears, a very fair crop of many sorts ; and of a few varieties, the apple crop will be unusually abundant ; Early Harvest, Keswick Codlin, Early Strawberry and Duchess of Oldenburg in particular — also Jersey, and Northern and Late Golden Sweet, Williams's Favorite, Twenty Ounce, &c., more early than late sorts; and we have even one tree (a small one) loaded with peaches ; and where there are trees, the plum promises a good yield unstung by curculio. — Ever your obliged friend, J. A. Kinnicott, The Grove, West Jstorthfield, III., July 6th. [We are pleased to have so chatty a letter from the Doctor, and trust his communications will not be " so far between." — Ed.] New York Agricultural College. — The Corner Stone of the New York Agricultural College was laid with appropriate ceremonies on the 7th of July. At 2 o'clock the officers of the institution were escorted from the College Farmhouse to the site of the building now erecting by the Genesee Cornet Band, where, after a prayer by the Rev. Mr. Hunt of Ithaca, Col. B. P. Johnson, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, read a list of the con- tents of the box to be deposited under the corner stone, which consisted of a plate, on which was this inscription : " New York Agricultural College, July 7, 1859 — corner stone laid by John A. King, Chairman of the Board of Trustees ; chartered April 5, 1853" — together with a list of the officers, trustees, and buildings of the College — a copy of the Bible, of New York State and American Institute Transactions, Norton's Elements of Agricult- ure, Agricultural papers of the State of New York, daily papers of Albany and New York, Dr. Sprague's Sermon on the Atlantic Telegraph, Copy of Baron Von Humboldt's letter to B. P. Johnson, Proceedings of dedication of N. York State Agricultural Rooms, Feb. 12, 1859, with Dr. Fitch's Re- ports, Col. Johnson's Report on the World's Fair of 1851, and a list of sub- scribers and owners of the College. Ex Gov. King then delivered an address, after which remarks were made by Col. Johnson, A. B. Conger and others. The exercises concluded with a prayer by Rev. Mr. Keller of Trumansburg.— ( Cowj^/t/ Gent.) AUGUST. 383 lortintltiiral ©perattons FOR AUGUST. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. Dry weather has followed the wet and cool month of June, and just now vegetation is suffering, in the immediate vicinity of Boston. Heavy rains would be most acceptable. With the advent of August more labor accu- mulates. Where there are collections of fruit trees, summer pruning will occupy much time, and this, together with mulching, watering and thinning, will leave little leisure. Grape Vines in the earliest houses will still be at rest, but the pruning should be now completed if they are to be started this month or in Septem- ber. If the border has been protected from wet, let it now receive the coming rains. Vines in the grapery will now be ripening their crop, and will need no other care than occasionally stopping the laterals. Vines in cold houses will just be in their fullest growth ; keep the house constantly damp ; guard against cold drafts of air ; air in season and close early ; give the border a thorough watering, if dry. Pear Trees may now be summer pruned. Bud grafting should be done this month, as well as budding. Thin out the fruit where too thick, and mulch and water trees when large specimens are wanted. Fruit Trees in pots, from which the fruit has been gathered or on which it is now ripe, should be more sparingly watered. Strawberry Beds may be made the last of the month. Begin in good season to prepare the beds, and take advantage of dull weather to plant. Plum Trees should be budded immediately. FLOWER DEPARTMENT. The dry weather soon tells upon the flower garden, and, where the means will allow, water should be liberally supplied. Roses, phloxes and other gross feeders, soon show the want of it. Attend now to the preparation of the autumn blooming stock. Repot Verbenas, Salvias, Eupatoriums, Bou- vardias, &c. Sow seeds of all such plants as- will be wanted. Look after specimen plants ; now that the houses are cleared, give them an abundance of room and keep them in good shape. Keep the houses damp. Azaleas will be objects of attention ; keep them in a high moist temper- ature, so as to obtain a free growth. Syringe every day. Early blooming plants may be removed from the house to set their buds. Pelargoniums will now be breaking freely, and in the course of a week or two should be repotted and placed in a frame where they can be sheltered from heavy rains. Chrysanthemums should be repotted and plunged in the open ground. Water very freely. Fuchsias should be watered occasionally with liquid manure. Calceolaria Seeds may still be planted. 384 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. AcHiMENES, growing vigorously, may have a shift into larger pots. Cinerarias require attention. Water carefully, shade from the hot sun, and fumigate if the green-fly appears. Sow seeds and pot oflf those sown previously. Prepare soil for autumn potting. Mignonette and Sweet Altssom Seeds should be planted. OxALis hirta and Bowiei should be potted. Pansies should now be propagated from cuttings. Japan Lilies in pots, done blooming, should be very sparingly watered. Heliotropes for winter bloom should be repotted. Camellias now in their summer quarters should be looked after, and re- potted if they require it. Syringe every day. Grafting should be done this month. Tree Peonies should be grafted. Cyclamens should be watered as the season advances. Gloxinias done blooming should be dried off gradually, and late potted plants, coming into full flower, watered more freely. Heaths and Epacris should be plunged in the ground and shaded from the noonday sun. Tea and Bourbon Roses may be layered now. Lantanas in pots should be shifted into a larger size. Monthly Carnations should be potted and plunged in the open ground. Chinese Primroses should be kept in a frame, shaded from the hot sun. Stocks for winter blooming may now be planted. Bouvardias for winter blooming should be repotted. Callas should be repotted and freely watered. flower garden and shrubbery. August is the month for the garden to put on its gayest aspect. What with Hollyhocks, Dahlias, Verbenas, Japan Lilies, Gladiolus and Roses, not to mention other plants, a display should be made which no other season afibrds. Continue to look after the walks and lawn. Take advantage of heavy showers to give both a good rolling, and mow at least every fortnight. Keep the shrubbery neat and clean by removing dead branches and old flower stems. Hedges should be clipped immediately. Roses should be layered this month. Keep down the suckers on the budded roses. White Lilies may be taken up and reset. Verbenas may be layered for a young stock for winter. OxALis BowiEi, planted in the open border, will bloom finely in Sep- tember. Daisies may be divided and transplanted. Dahlias should be staked, mulched and watered. Carnations and Picotees should be layered. Pansies may be planted in frames for spring flowering. Perennial Seeds of all kinds may be planted. Phloxes should be neatly staked up. Water freely in dry weather. Plants of various kinds, in pots, may be plunged into the ground to fill vacant places. COUNTRY RESIDENCES. One of the greatest impediments to the progress of orna- mental planting and rural taste is the mistakes of our American people in the formation of their country places and villa gardens. In no other operation in which they engage do we see the same errors committed, or so little effected for the labor and expense incurred. Even the shrewdest men, who calculate to a dollar in all the ordinary transactions of life, here fail to establish their reputation for prudence and good judgment. Why it is so is easily accounted for, though the cause is seldom or never acknowledged. We Americans are so prone to believe we can do everything we undertake, whether it be the building of a house or the construction of a railroad, that we can just as easily make a garden as we could perform any other operation. It is but to buy and plant, and the work is finished, the garden made, and we have but to sit down and enjoy the fruits of our labors. All this arises from the one great and fatal idea that gar- dening is not a science and an art, requiring the study of a life to master it ; and no more to be taken up and practised hap-hazard than the attempt to paint a landscape or carve a piece of marble. Just as a few years ago, before archi- tecture had assumed its present character, every man thought he was an architect, and could plan and arrange his house, so now almost every one who intends to make a country place thinks he can do it himself without aid or assistance. Does he not know what he wants better than anybody else ? and if his taste is suited is not that enough ? What better argument than this ? But, alas ! he forgets or does not know that true taste, — a real appreciation of the beautiful, — is not innate with all ; or, supposing it may be, he does not stop to inquire whether he can carry out his ideas of a fine country place so speedily and well as one whose knowledge is far more extensive, while VOL. XXV. — NO. IX. 25 386 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. his taste is highly cultivated ? This, after all, is the question. He may, after many failures, loss of valuable time, and use- less expense, work out as picturesque and beautiful a home as the most accomplished landscape gardener, but it will be done at a cost too grqat for the end obtained. True, there is a satisfaction with many in overcoming obsta- cles which others would shrink from ; and a hill to be levelled, a ledge to be blasted, a ravine to be filled up, a pond to be dug out, and a forest to be cut down, before anything else can be done, are sources of pleasure to him who really loves the country and has the means to accomplish so much ; but the man who has worked hard amid the din and dust of the city, the best part of his life, looking forward to the time when he could remove to the country and enjoy it, does not like to reclaim a wilderness, and finds, when too late to ap- preciate what he has done, that he has left off where he should have commenced. The young and enthusiastic lover of the country, with a real passion for nature and an abundance of wealth, must be the pioneer in reclaiming the waste places around our cities, which in later years are to pass into the hands of those who seek the retirement of the country. The man of smaller means should never attempt so hazardous a task. The great error of the country resident, next to that of making his place, is undertaking too much. Americans who go abroad with a love of the country, and the hope some day to enjoy it, make it their special object to visit tlie rural parts of England, with its magnificent country seats and ele- gant villas. They are delighted, as they could not help being, at so much real beauty — such splendid parks, such broad and verdant lawns, such neat gardens, such fine con- servatories, and such rich plantations of trees and shrubs. They see too at home many places of far less extent, but sufficiently large to gratify them, and they resolve that when the opportunity shall arrive for them to escape to the country, they will have that which is equally as good or better. In all this they see but the effect produced. The trees grow and the flowers bloom, as if nature had planted them. The cost of so much beauty is rarely thought of or considered. 387 It is but to purchase a few hundred dollars' worth of trees and plants for ornamenting the grounds, a small amount ad- ded to the aggregate cost of an expensive house. Unfortunately too late he finds this but a mere item in the expenditure of his country place. The trees will not grow, nor the flowers bloom, nor the fruit trees bear without the gardener's aid. The tares and weeds spring up, the insects devour, and his grounds have anything but the appearance of the fine residence which in earlier years he fancied his own would resemble. The charm of his imaginary elysium is gone ; for he finds that the expense requisite to keep his grounds up to that standard which the house in its elaborate architect- ure demands, is altogether too great, and the only means of escape are to let the garden and grounds go to neglect, or find a purchaser and remove back to the city, or select a less ex- tensive place. Thus we see, as we remarked in the beginning, the ill- effects of making country places upon horticultural progress. Instead of beginning moderately and improving and beauti- fying a small spot of ground, so as to become a truly lovely home, money and time are thrown away in doing really noth- ing, for want of the means to accomplish it. Trees are not planted, the grounds are neglected, and an actual distaste usurps the place of a love for the country. These few remarks suggested themselves in the perusal of Mr. Sargent's capital Supplement to Downing's Land- scape Gardening, reviewed in a previous number, particularly the chapter entitled " How to make a Country Place," and we intended to embrace the first opportunity to notice the work again. We now recur to that chapter to illustrate the force of the above hints. We quote Mr. Sargent's remarks : — " On the Continent and in England it is rarely that a place is made from the beginning. The taste for country life hav- ing existed as long as England herself has existed, the whole kingdom may be said to be one immense garden. All who can, from the sovereign to the cit, live, at least some portion of the year, in the country ; in fact, one's respectability is not complete unless he is a landed proprietor. If, as we have said in our preface, there are in England 20,000 country 388 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. houses, each larger than the White House at Washington, there are more than twice that number a great deal smaller. " Places change hands, but few new places are made. This is not the case in this country. We have but few old estates, and these, whenever offered for sale, are generally so run down and desolate as to afford little attraction to the beginner of country life ; besides which, the universal delusion among us all is that we can make a country place cheaper than we can buy one. While we are alarmed at a sum total, we easily reconcile ourselves to progressive expenditure, until, in the end, we realize ' that fools build houses and wise men live in them.' " This is one great reason, we have always thought, why makers of new places so soon become discontented and ready to sell out at a sacrifice. A man who hesitates to give $20,000 or $100,000 for a comely place, and even feels indig- nant at the supposition that he could be guilty of such folly, if he attempts to make his own place generally ends by spend- ing twice as much. " We refuse to pay $25,000, and we hug ourselves with the idea that our land will cost but $6000, and our house $5000, and our stable $1000, and sundries $500. But unfortunately, these sundries are the rocks on which much rural enthusiasm is lost. It is the ice-house, and the root-house, and the gar- dener's house, and the green-house, and the grape-house, with the grading, and road-making, and trenching, and dig- ging, and the labor necessary to keep them all up, that ex- haust'both our enthusiasm and our purse, and make us see in the end what we could not see in the beginning, namely, that it is always best to purchase an improved place, or one partially improved, than to begin in the raw. For it may be laid down as an inevitable rule and prevent much subsequent disappointment, whenever any improvements at all are con- templated, (and it is difficult where we have no accounts or spots to be contracted without doing something,) to remember one fact, that the modern accessories to a country place are at least equivalent to the first cost of house and grounds — that is to say, where the improvements are in keeping with the house and place, and continued for a series of years." SEPTEMBER. 6b\) Mr. Sargent then goes on to give an illustration of the two styles of making new places which he thinks are usually prev- alent in this country, one being like his own, a dense wood, where the principal effects were produced by cutting- awaij ; and the other a plain or field without many trees or shrubs, like that of Wellesley, Mr. Hunnewell's fine grounds at West Needham, where the effects are produced by planting out; and he gives in detail the process by which his now pictur- esque and elegant residence on the Hudson was made, as he does how that of Mr. Hunnewell's equally beautiful place was accomplished, and with his own experience, and close observation of what Mr. H. has done, he comes to the follow- ing conclusions : — " Of the two places described, as illustrating the two schools most common in the country, we believe we shall afford some consolation to many beginners of naked places by saying, that our experience is extremely adverse to all attempts at converting a wood into anything ornamental. " If two places of the same size were commenced the same day, by persons of equal taste, knowledge and means, — one a wood and the other a naked plain, — at the end of ten years the naked plain would be the finer and more satisfactory." Mr. Sargent then proceeds to give some good advice to new beginners, showing, by the example of Mr. Hunnewell, how much can be done in a short time, less than ten years, by working from a previously conceived plan, properly preparing the soil, and thoroughly completing the planting. We have not the space now to follow him, but, in continuation of this very important subject, shall recur to it again in a future number. Now we cannot say that we fully agree with Mr. Sargent as regards the choice of a naked plain in place of a wooded spot, in making a new place. Much would depend upon circum- stances— such as the nature of the soil, the character of the trees, size, age, &c. If the grounds were to be extensive and comprise many acres, we certainly should go in for the par- tially or generally wooded situation ; but if of moderate size, of only four or five acres, then we should select the naked plain. Our reasons are, that from the forest we can cut 390 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. away and plant out, by means of rapid-growing shrubs, so as to form vistas and drives in a short space of time ; while in the more open portions we could make our lawn and garden, thus enjoying retirement and seclusion, while we were form- ing that which was eventually to afford us the most rational pleasure, the planting and study of trees and plants and flowers. We are ready to admit that much of the gratifica- tion of country life arises from the activity in which we engage in its labors, and to have no planting to do would neither endear us so much to our home, nor administer to our sources of delight. A wood, therefore, if not admitting of this only at great sacrifice of time and means, would not be so desirable as a naked place. But let the conditions be right, as they often are, and our choice would be the wood. On the other hand, for a small place, we prefer the field or plain, because woods, especially if large and old, do not harmonize well with the house and the meagreness of the young plantations : for many years they show that the house was made for the place, and not the place for the house, and of all effects in rural scenery this is the worst. Besides, the quantity of land is too limited for garden purposes, and little space is left for arboricultural improvement. In this view we are taking it for granted that the country resident is fond of planting and rural pursuits generally, for if simply country air and retirement are all that are sought after, then the wooded place, after making a few openings, could be kept at little expense. But what we wish in conclusion to urge upon all who in- tend to seek the country is to avoid the mistakes which prove so fatal to enthusiastic admirers of picturesque scenery — the attempt to accomplish what they have neither the means nor the taste to do. Because some elegant country place delights their eye, let them not be misled by the idea that they can easily make one which shall equal or surpass it. Never at- tempt too much. Do not expend all your means upon the house, and leave, as Mr. Sargent truly says, but 1500 for the garden, the trenching, the planting, the roads and walks, and a thousand other things which go to make a complete country home : and, above all, do not forget that a $10,000 house and SEPTEMBER. 391 grounds of sufficient space require an annual expenditure in the keeping which rarely enters into the account, but which, after all, is the item upon which So many fail to retain their enthusiasm for, and love of rural life. EFFECTS OF CLIMATE AND CULTIVATION. BY WILSON FLAGG. Reason has enabled man not only to adapt his own con- stitution and that of several species of animals to endure every variety of climate and mode of living ; — it has also enabled him to cultivate to perfection, in northern latitudes, many plants which are indigenous in the tropics. The greater part of these are annuals, such as Indian corn, the potato, the tomato, the sweet potato, the squash, and the melon; these are common in gardens above the latitude of 36°, as well as below it. Others are cultivated in high latitudes, with the aid of protection and hothouse culture : such as the pine- apple, the lemon, the orange, and the fig. It is remarkable that the most of these attain, under these artificial circum- stances, a size and flavor which they do not acquire in their indigenous soil and climate. According to Humboldt, " some plants which constitute the object of gardening and agriculture have, time out of mind, accompanied man from one end of the globe to the other. In Europe the vine followed the Greeks, the wheat the Romans, and the cotton the Arabs. In America, the Tultiques carried with them the maize ; the potato and the quinoa are found wherever have migrated the ancient Condinamorea. The migration of these plants is evident ; but their first country is as little known as that of the different races of men, which have been found in all parts of the globe, from the earliest traditions." The influence of climate upon the quality of the different productions subjected to various climates, is worthy of atten- tion. Wheat is, like most other cereals, a northern plant : this grain is heavier and more farinaceous in high latitudes, 392 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. and more mucilaginous at the south. Indian corn is heavier and more flinty at the north, and larger and more luxuriant at the south. The northern corn contains the most oil ; the southern corn the most sugar and the most farina. Nearly- all the esculent roots are improved by cultivation in high latitudes. The common potato is mealy in proportion as the soil in which it is raised is near the Arctic circle. Onions raised in warm countries are not to be compared to those that grow here. I believe the same is conceded for the most part in regard to the herbaceous fruits. Melons acquire a greater size at the south, greater sweetness at the north. The tomato was not supposed to be edible, until it had been improved by cul- tivation at the north as an ornamental fruit. Some of the tree fruits seem to prefer a temperate climate. Peaches, for example, thrive better in New Jersey than in Massachusetts, though it is a question whether those produced here are not superior in flavor. Grapes also require a temperate or middle latitude. Apples are best in the northern temperate zone. . The cause of these effects seems to be the greater amount of sunshine which plants obtain in high latitudes during the period which intervenes between their blossom and their ma- turity. It is remarkable that the most of the fruits which are the product of trees, and which are susceptible of indefinite im- provement by art, are such as are good for nothing in their wild or natural state. Thus the peach in its primitive condi- tion is bitter and poisonous ; the original apple and pear are sour, astringent and unpalatable ; the cherry and plum are not much better. These fruits in their wild state would bear no comparison to the whortleberry, the raspberry and the blackberry, all of which are comparatively unsusceptible of improvement. On the other hand, wild grapes and gooseber- ries, though improvable by art to some extent, are very little inferior to the best cultivated sorts. The qualities of sourness and astringency seem to be converted, by the art of the culti- vator, into sugar and mucilage ; while the natural quality of sweetness is by the same art converted into insipidity. Per- haps chemistry might afford us some explanation of this fact. SEPTEMBER. 393 The improvement of fruits by culture is closely analogous to that of flowers. Thus a rose or a cowslip is made double by the same arts that convert a crab apple into a Baldwin or a Nonesuch, or a butter pear into a Bartlett or a Seckel. But the rule applied above to fruits cannot be applied to flowers. The most beautiful florists' flowers are produced from flowers which are beautiful in their wild state ; and those which are susceptible of the least improvement by cultivation are such as grow in soils which cannot easily be imitated by art. Such are the orchideous plants, which grow in an imperfect soil formed of mosses in a state of partial decay ; such, also, are the aquatic plants. The improvement of fruits and vegetables is evidently the consequence of supplying them judiciously with an increased quantity of nutrition, and by taking advantage of these changes in their constitution in the propagation of new varie- ties. The plant must first be domesticated, before it ceases to resist the effects of art, by the force, of its original tenden- cies. We observe the same principle in the animal constitu- tion. If we take a pig from the litter of a wild hog, we could not fatten it as readily as we could fatten a young Siiffolk pig. Neither can we, by planting a wilding apple tree in a favora- ble artificial soil, cause it to produce tlie best kind of fruit. Tlie plant as well as the animal must acquire a second nature, which seems to be a sort of languid or sluggish nature, by our directing the needful appliances to the successive offspring of many generations, till we bring it to perfection. Perfection seems to be that point of improvement beyond which it can- not be improved without suffering disease or decay. Indeed, all perfected fruits and florists' flowers are in a condition which must, in a physiological sense, be considered a degen- erate one. Hence tlie cultivators of fruits and vegetables are obliged constantly to raise up new varieties from native stocks ; the old varieties being run out, not by old age, but by luxu- rious appliances. The disease of the potato may be the effect of luxurious habits suffered in its cultivation. Those raised from the seed may suffer in the same way in consequence of contagion, by growing in a soil which has been contaminated by diseased 394 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. crops, or by the application of a contaminated compost. I do not state this as my opinion, but mei^ely as a suggestion that may contain some truth. It cannot be questioned that luxu- rious habits must ultimately cause the destruction of a race of plants as well as of animals ; that fruits which are propa- gated by grafting and roots which are propagated by tubers perish, not on account of old age, but in consequence of that feebleness of vitality caused by the luxurious habits to which, for a loi]g course of years, they have been subjected by the cultivator. The Bartlett pear and the Baldwin apple may, perhaps, in the course of another half century, become worth- less like the St. Michael pear. Inferior varieties of older date retain their goodness for centuries, because, not being favor- ites, they do not suffer so much from tender and luxurious treatment. When there is a constant renewal of the variety from seed, this degenerating course operates more slowly but not less surely. The principal cause of the degeneracy of squashes and melons is said to be hybridization with inferior varieties. Without denying this, it may still be affirmed that the luxu- rious culture to which any variety is exposed, when for many years under high cultivation, must cause its ultimate decline. Hence the well-known necessity of occasionally procuring seed from distant neighborhoods, and from those plants which have been neglected and have run wild for many years. We observe the operation of the same law of nature in the animal as well as the plant. If we would procure a good cow, we must not, for this purpose, raise the calf of a cow which has, by luxurious feeding, been made to produce ex- travagant quantities of milk. Prize cows are not very apt to be the mothers of extraordinary cows. Their offspring is likely to fail from the want of vital energy. If we would raise a good cow, we must select the calf of one that yields a good supply of excellent milk under the management of some farmer who gives his flock no extraordinary attention, but allows them to pick for themselves during the greater part of the year. Our agricultural societies are in the habit of ridi- culing this sort of management; but if every man in the country were to practice the rule of high feeding, the stock SEPTEMBER. 395 throughout the land would soon degenerate to such an extent as to render it impossible to find a calf that was fit to be raised. These monstrosities, which are held in such high re- pute at cattle-shows, would never obtain a prize if Old Dame Nature herself were the committee. According to Scripture, " the children of this world are wiser than the children of light." We might add, that the children of the soil are, in some important respects, wiser than those who would enlighten them, whose rules, if univer- sally practiced, would produce more mischief than has ever come from that " wholesome neglect," which is more in ac- cordance with nature, who uses no means to preserve or to propagate monstrosity. Hence, without denying that some good is effected by agricultural societies, who are analogous to the party of progress in the civil and political world, we must concede that the practice of the farmers who do not so widely deviate from the course which is marked out by na- ture, and who are analogous to the conservative party in civil affairs, is just as wise for the present generation, and wiser for posterity. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP The Concord Grape, — Every cultivator of the grape throughout the country is well aware of the abuse heaped upon this variety a few years ago, and not only upon the variety, but upon the raiser and introducers of it, as if some great and stupendous imposition had been perpetrated upon the public. It was not even allowed the decent company of our wild grapes. Some did admit, however, that it was " fit for jellies." Others said it had a "foxy perfume," and left a " prickly sensation" when eaten, and quite a number thought it infei^ior to the Isabella. One horticultural writer thoiight it might " do at the north," where the Isabella would not ripen, but at the south it was of no value. And the same writer, when one of .his correspondents said it was a fine market grape for the masses, thought the " masses don't dis- criminate." One " Solon," dating from Boston, in the same 396 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. writer's journal, thought these remarks were nicely " tucked in," [witty man that] and was exceedingly desirous of " ex- pressing his regret," that " new plants should be sent out from time to time so misrepresented as they are, and two of the most notable instances^ recently occurring not abroad, but at home." We might even find a page of similar abuse. Why the Concord grape was singled out, among the many new fruits that have been introduced, for such attacks has always been a mystery, though we all have our yankee privi- lege of guessing. Whatever may have been the cause it is pleasant to know that there is a returning sense of truth and justice still abroad, and we are glad to note it here to the honor of our cultivators, who can discern the good, and have the courage to acknowledge it. At the last pomological meet- ing in New York, in September, 1858, four years subsequent to the meeting of the same society in Boston, where the Con- cord was ridiculed and denounced, it was added to the list for General Cultivation, with remarks from gentlemen that " it was one of the greatest acquisitions," and that they know of " no grape that can be compared with it." In continuation of this expression of opinion we quote the following from the Gardener's Monthly : — " We can all probably remember when the Concord grape was first introduced by Hovey & Co. of Boston ; and although it was not equal to the extravagant description that heralded it into existence, yet I will venture to say that no one who has given it a fair trial would be willing to discard it from the list. At that time the proprietors were assailed with just such a tirade of abuse as before stated, and it is quite time that they should receive some credit for their valuable acquisi- tion." Mr. C. Downing, who has just visited us, informs us that Judge Peters, a well-informed pomologist of Atalanta, Geor- gia, has just written him that at the South it is a much supe- rior grape to the Isabella. We might instance other commendations of the Concord, but we are content with these, simply as showing that it is a good grape somewhere besides " the North." SEPTEMBER. 397 New Blackberries, — No sooner does a particular fruit at- tract general attention than we find our skilful cultivators engaged in its improvement. Six years ago there was no generally acknowledged good hardy grape but the Isabella. But immediately upon the introduction of the Concord such a host of sorts came into notice that we believe a hundred, and we cannot say, as we write from recollection, but two hundred, sorts are put down in some nursery catalogues. And so we doubt not it will be with the blackberry. Ten years ago nobody had heard of anything worth raising but the Dorchester ; then we had the Lawton or New Rochelle, and now some half a dozen kinds more. The following have recently been brought into notice : — HoLCOMB. — A variety introduced at Hartford, Conn., and sent to us by Col. Dewey, but not yet fruited. In flavor it is stated to be superior to the Lawton. It is a small berry, in comparison, however, though an abundant bearer, as shown by some bearing branches lately exhibited before the Hartford Horticultural Society. Cutter's Mulberry. — A variety introduced to notice by G. B. Cutter of Newton, Mass. The berries are very long and slender in shape, the flavor remarkably sweet, and the variety an enormous bearer. Washington. — This is the name of a new seedling raised by Prof. C. G. Page of Washington, D. C. The bunches are very large, the flavor delightful to the taste, and it is pro- nounced a valuable addition to our stock of garden fruits. Prof. Page exhibited the fruit in Washington a few days ago. Besides these we have the Cut-Leaved, the Orange, and another variety sent to us as fine, but not having fruited either, or possessing much information about them, we cannot add anything farther in regard to their merits. The Albany Strawberry. — Our contemporary, the Country Gentleman, is determined the Albany shall be pretty well known, and if it is not it will not be for want of column upon column of no faint praise. Tlie last writer is Mr. Saunders of St. Louis, who thinks it destined to become the principal strawberry for market. Its only single objection, he says, " is its dark dull color, ^' which is very conspicuous and per- 398 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. ceptible when perceived en masse. We have already had much evidence of its acidity. Now we find it a dark dull color. Are there any other objections to it ? Mr. John Wilson, the son of the raiser of this variety, gives a statement of its productiveness, which is no doubt true. In fact, he has never overrated it himself. He states that a gentleman in his neighborhood, wishing to test its productive- ness, planted three fourths of an acre. The product the second year (the year after planting) was 70 bushels, at the rate of about 95 bushels to the acre, and as to the size of berries the average, he says, is 3 to 3| inches in circumfer- ence, and not unfrequently we meet with them four inches. Another writer says 55 berries fill a quart. Now the ordinary product of the West Cambridge straw- berry growers is 4000 quarts of Hovey's Seedling to the acre, or about 120 bushels ! and the average size 4 to 5 inches, with occasional berries six inches in circumference. Twenty- eight berries fill a quart box. The editor of the Gardener's Monthly remarks that proba- bly few fruits have earned their way to favor "without any extra puffing" so determinedly as the Albany. We should say no fruit was ever so extensively puffed, unless we except the tremendous Peabody. Why, a volume has been written about it in the Albany papers, by the dealers in the plants. We hope to see the Albany continue to merit the attention of cultivators, but some better evidence must be given of this before we can advise its extensive culture, either for market or " family use," if there are to be two uses for the straw- berry. The Hebron Pear. — We were inadvertently led into a serious error by one of our contemporary journals. Dr. Rus- sell and Col. Dewey of Hartford sent the editor specimens of the Hebron and Boston pears, with some brief account of them. The editor in a note appended the following : — " All of which (the specimens) came in good order. The Pinneo, or Hebron pear, is identical with the 'Boston.' No descrip- tion, moreover, could be more perfect than C. Downing's of the Boston, if it had been rightly named the ' Pinneo,' alias Boston, as Mr. Harvey (meaning we doubt not us) now admits." SEPTEMBER. 399 Now if the Editor of a Horticultural and Pomological Jour- nal, with the pears before him, calls them identical, should we not follow such illustrious authority ! And so we did. We included the Hebron as a synonym of the Boston, and if we have erred, as we now know we have, who is to blame ? "We ought to have, if we do not, some respect for an Editor's opinion. Fortunately we have, through the kindness of M. P. Wilder, received specimens of the Hebron, and hasten to inform our pomological friends that it is not the same as the Boston, for we should feel that we had done an intentional wrong if we did not state this at once, and thus save cultivators from in- troducing an inferior pear in the place of one so delicious. Mr. C. Downing now tells us that the Hebron, (our Hart- ford friends will never forgive him for this expose of their pomological researches) is nothing but the Early Denzalonia described in his edition of his brother's Fruits and Fruit Trees, and that both are only Silliman's Russet, a pear sent to him as a seedling years ago ! It appears curious that while they find fault at our naming a pear which we believed to be an unknown, undescribed and entirely new native variety, they are renaming an old pear which has been described in pomo- logical works of the best authority ! Confusion worse con- founded ! With such errors, will pear cultivators have any confidence in pomological progress ? The Hebron, alias Early Denzalonia, alias Silliman's Rus- set, is a small pear, about the size of Dearborn's seedling, with a green and russety skin. It has a strong musky aroma, somewhat of the Bleeker's Meadow character, with a soft sweetish flesh, with what the French term a pastry taste. No pears could be more unlike in size, shape, color and qual- ity than the Hebron and Boston, though pronounced identi- cal, as we have above shown. The Buckland Sweet Water Grape. — This is the name of a new variety to be offered for sale the coming fall in Lon- don. It received the premium offered by the British Pomo- logical Society for the best seedling grape not having a Muscat flavor, Sept. 9, 1858 ; also, an extra prize at the Crystal Palace Exhibition, Sept. 8 and 9, 1858. And it is recom- 400 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mended by many gardeners who have seen it growing and tasted the fruit. A brief account of it will be found in our volume for 1858, (XXIY, p. 553.) It appears to be a very useful variety. INJURIES TO VEGETATION FROM ICE. BY WILSON FLAGG. The different effects of ice and snow, considered as a cov- ering for the soil and vegetation, have often been remarked. The utility of snow is so great that it is not probable that many plants could live in high northern latitudes without its protection. It is indeed to the earth a blanket, that prevents the escape of the heat acquired during summer, from aljsorp- tion into the atmosphere during winter. Count Eumford has given a philosophical explanation of this principle which I will quote : — " The snows which cover the surface of the earth in winter, in high latitudes, are doubtless designed, by an all-provident Creator, as a garment to defend it against the piercing winds from the polar regions, which prevail during the cold season. These winds, notwithstanding the vast tracts of continent over which they blow, retain their sharpness as long as the ground they pass over is covered with snow ; and it is not till meeting with the ocean, that they acquire, from a contact with its waters, the heat which the snows prevent their ac- quiring from the earth, the edge of their coldness is taken off, and they gradually die away and are lost. " The winds are always found to be much colder when the ground is covered with snow than when it is bare, and this extraordinary coldness is by many supposed to be communi- cated to the air by snow ; but this is an erroneous opinion, for these winds are in general much colder than the snow it- self. They retain their coldness, because the snow prevents them from being warmed at the expense of the earth ; and this is a striking proof of the use of snow in preserving the heat of the earth during the winter in cold latitudes. SEPTEMBER. 401 " It is remarkable that these winds seldom blow from the poles directly towards the equator, but from the land towards the sea. Upon the eastern coast of North America the cold winds come from the northwest ; but upon the western coast of Europe they blow from the northeast. " That they should blow from those parts where they can most easily acquire that heat they are in search for, is not extraordinary ; and that they should gradually cease and die away, upon being warmed by contact with the waters of the ocean, is likewise agreeable to the nature and causes of their motion ; and if I might be allowed a conjecture respecting the principal use of the sea, or the reason why the proportion of water upon the surface of our globe is so great compared to that of the land, it is to maintain a more equal tempera- ture in the different climates, by heating or cooling the winds which at certain periods blow from the great continents." Snow is eminently favorable to vegetation in high latitudes on account of its light, feathery nature ; and in certain tem- peratures, where neither the surface to be protected nor the atmosphere outside are sufficiently warm to melt it, it is fully as good a protection as so much wool or down spread over the same surface. But nature designs it only as a temporary protection, and for this reason she has made it dissoluble at those temperatures of the atmosphere which can support veg- etation. Hence, when spring arrives, the earth, as if by a voluntary act, throws off its clothing, which would, if it were not dissolved, just as effectually prevent the entrance as the escape of heat. But why, it may be asked, will not ice afford the same pro- tection ? For the same reason that a piece of stiff pasteboard is not as good a bed-blanket as a quilted mass of cotton or wool. The lighter the substance in proportion to its bulk, other things being equal, the more imperfect is its conducting power of heat. Iron, it is well known, is one of the best conductors of heat ; but let it be beaten into a mass of minute, feathery scales, and in this state it would afford no mean pro- tection from the cold, if used as a covering. I have no doubt its power, as an electrical conductor, would be diminished in the same proportion, because both the heat and the electric yoL. XXV. — NO. IX. 26 402 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUKE. fluid must pass through the interstices containing dry atmo- spherical air in making their escape. Last winter the ground was covered with ice for several weeks, over a large extent of country. There was, conse- quently, a great deal of injury suffered by the grass as well as by the winter grain crops. Both the mowing and pasture lands were completely seared in some spots. Would these places have suffered equally if they had been covered during the winter and the same length of time by water ? The inju- rious effects of standing water would probably be less. The water must preserve an even temperature if it be not frozen ; but the ice, when in a thawing state, causes an alternate ac- tion of freezing and thawing, just at the point of contact between itself and the soil. It is this baneful alternation that is so destructive to plants which are near the surface of the ground. When the ground is entirely open, there is a greater escape of heat ; but the alternations of heat and cold are not so sud- den as under the ice, which does not shut out the rays of the sun, but allows the melting process to take place chiefly on its under surface, when it is in contact with the soil. The vitality of herbs is probably exhausted more rapidly by ice than by an equally cold atmosphere, and probably causes more heat from the earth's surface to be radiated than would be radiated by direct contact with the dry atmosphere. TRITONIA AUREA AND TRITOMA UVARIA. BY THE EDITOR. The real value of a new plant is in a great degree estimated by its fitness for general cultivation. If from a climate that will require it should have artificial heat in winter, it can only be found in the gardens of the more wealthy, whose ample greenhouses and hothouses afford space, and whose skilful gardeners possess the knowledge, to rear it successfully. If from a climate, however, assimilating so near to our own as to render it equally as hardy here as in its native soil, it be- SEPTEMBER. 403 comes doublj valuable, for it may be introduced into all gar- dens,— into that of the laboring man as well as that of the wealthy proprietor, — and hence becomes universally known. Such are the Weigelia, the Dielytra, the Spiraeas, the Wista- rias, and numerous others which now ornament the front dooryards of our city gardens, and enrich the lawn and shrub- bery of our villa grounds. Standing between these two, the tender and the hardy, there are a great number of beautiful plants termed half hardy — that is, not hardy enough to resist our winter cold unprotected, nor tender enough to require any artificial heat ; needing only the protection of a frame or cellar until the return of spring, when they are again removed to the garden to thrive and flourish in the greatest vigor. They include many of our most showy flowers, and our collections could not well spare them. The Dahlia, the Gladiolus, the Erythrina,&c., are included in this class, and next to a really and completely hardy plant, these possess the greatest value. Additions to these half hardy plants are always hailed with great interest by every enthusiastic cultivator, and every new acquisition becomes a real treasure, especially when possess- ing unusual beauty or effective in ornamental display. Whether a coniferous tree, a bamboo, a gigantic grass, or a brilliant flower, they are sure of a speedy introduction into our gar- dens. Two such plants we have in the Tritonia aurea and Trito- ma uvaria, introduced not long since to English gardens, and more recently into American collections. We think they are destined to become popular and highly desirable objects in the flower garden. Trito^nia (croco'sma) au'rea. The Tritonia (fig. 47) belongs to the family of Iride^e, hav- ing a foliage similar to the Gladiolus, but with flowers like an Ixia or Sparaxis, though much larger. It was introduced to England, we believe, by Messrs. Backhouse, nurserymen of York. It has been figured by Yan Houtte in his Flora, and named by Planchon, the editor, Crocosma aurea, a name adopted by some cultivators, though generally known as Tri- tonia. 404 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. In brilliancy of color few plants equal the Tritonia. The petals are of a rich deep orange, or orange yellow, very rare in plants, and only found in some of the orchids ; we have rarely 47. TRITONIA AUREA. if ever seen such a brilliant and striking tint. Not even the most brilliant of the new Gladioli can compare with the glow- ing shade of the Tritonia. The plants form a kind of pseudo bulb or fleshy root, which they throw out as they extend in growth. The roots or tu- SEPTEMBER. 405 bers should be potted in the autumn', and the pots placed in a cool cellar or frame, or under the stage of the greenhouse; in either place they will succeed ; all that is needful is to put the tubers where they can be free from severe frost. In the month of April or May they may be turned out of the pots into the border, where they will soon make a vigorous growth and throw up their flower stems, which attain the height of two to three feet. It begins to open its flowers the last of July, or beginning of August, and continues in bloom until September. After the partial decay of the leaves the roots or tubers should be taken up and potted, and have the same treatment as the previous year. Planted out in the border, in masses of half a dozen or more roots, or in a slightly raised bed, it makes a magnificent appearance, throwing up such a profusion of flower stems that it must be considered one of the richest of bedding plants. If the soil is not naturally light and rich, it should be made so by the addition of leaf mould, peat and sand. Our engrav- ing can only convey an idea of the habit of the plant. Trito^ma (Knipho^fia) uva^ria. The Tritoma, though recently brought into prominent no- tice, is an old inhabitant of English gardens, having been introduced nearly a century and a half ago. It is there a perfectly hardy perennial plant, and why it has not attracted more attention is difficult to account for, though Henderson's Illustrated Bouquet, from which we copy the substance of our remarks, thinks it has been because some inferior variety has been substituted for it. Such may be the fact, but we should rather be inclined to think that, like many other old things, it has been neglected for the new, until the new becoming nearly exhausted, atten- tion has been turned to the old again, and this with others recovered from the neglect which it has received. Taken un- der the patronage of royalty, where, as at Kew, it had the best of cultivation, it has shown what a fine thing it really is, a single plant displaying fifty or sixty of its tall stems, termi- nated by long spikes of gorgeous flowers, at once established 406 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. its reputation, and rendered it a popular as it is a most desir- able plant. Two varieties of the Tritoma have flowered in our collection, and, though the plants are in pots and not yet large and strong, they are now in bloom, each plant having a single flower stem upwards of three feet high, terminated with a spike of tubular scarlet blossoms, pendent, and so thickly set as to touch each other. They will continue to open for a great length of time, each stem having more than a hundred blossoms. There are three or four species or varieties of the Tritoma, viz., T. uvaria, generally cultivated under that name ; T. uvaria of Kew, now called T. uvaria glaucescens, from the glaucous hue of its leaves ; T. uvaria serotina, and T. Bur- chelK. T. uvaria glaucescens is the most brilliant colored variety,, and T. u. serotina next in point of beauty. As our experience in its culture is limited, we copy the following from the Illustrated Bouquet, where it is elegantly figured : — " T. uvaria forms a large tufted stemless plant, having at a distance the appearance of a broad-leaved grass. It has a short tuberous root-stock, furnished with fleshly fibres. From the robust crown grow up the remarkably long, half erect, glaucous green leaves, the section of which, from the sharp keel and elevated margins, forms a triangle ; they are broad- est at the base, three to four feet long, gradually attenuated to the slender points. From the centre of these leaf-tufts arise the tall smooth flower-scapes or stems, four to five feet or more in height, terminating in long, ovately cylindrical, dense racemes of pendent cylindrical flower-tubes, which un- fold of a bright rich orange-red color ; these become tipped with yellow, and finally entirely yellow. These terminal flower racemes are often from one to two feet in length, and the brilliant tints of color as seen at a distance, either in the deepening shades of evening or in bright daylight, are un- equalled by any other plant of the season. " The intrinsic value of this plant can scarcely be overrated, in consequence of its capacity to endure our winters, wherever a dry subsoil can be secured, artificially or otherwise, and from its adaptation to thrive in our ordinary garden soils. SEPTEMBER. 407 For the attainment of its highest vigor, however, it prefers a rich mixture of open loam, peat, and leaf-mould in a bed or border of two to three feet in depth. Thus planted, in con- spicuous positions, where the glowing tints of color can be viewed from different points, and the gorgeous masses so ar- ranged against a rich dark green back-ground, or in open spaces where they can be seen through the prismatic medium of the sunbeams, there is no object in the flower garden to compare with them for attractive beauty. When planted tolerably close, with the strongest specimens in the centre, the combination, en masse, appears like pyramidal groups of flame-colored flower-shafts or columns, towering above the ordinary flower-beds, and imparting grandeur to the surround- ing masses. In cold damp soils the plants need some protec- tion, of which the simplest form is a thick coil or surface cov- ering of dry fern tops, placed close around each crown. " One of the valuable features of T. uvaria is its suitability for culture in large pots or vases. It may be so grown with success if planted in rich, firm-bodied soil, and duly supplied with copious waterings as the plants advance in vigor : they should, during mature growth, be placed in feeders, from which a copious supply can be occasionally administered. For decorative purposes, as portable specimens on an extensive scale, either arranged in unmixed groups or judiciously placed amongst evergreen shrubs, its brilliant blossoms would impart a gay and unique effect to the scenes in which it was thus introduced." FLORICULTURAL NOTICES. Seedling Petunias. — We are gratified to find our amateur and practical florists turning their attention to the improve- ment of this fine summer-blooming plant. Mr. Dooge, gar- dener to C. Copeland, has sent us some very beautiful seed- lings raised by him. One is in the way of Inimitable, with a few white petals in the throat, which produce a very bold eflfect; another is a large striped one, rather flimsy in the 408 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. petal, but showy ; a third in the style of Louis de Hamonville, but more delicate in color. All are very fine and deserving of cultivation. Mr. M. Trautman has raised three or four fine double varieties ; one very large, rose color, with broad smooth petals to the centre ; another large white, and a third white, with a delicate greenish shading on the edge, very unique and pretty. Messrs. Hovey & Co. have some very distinctly veined and shaded flowers, three or four of which are great improvements upon the older kinds. No doubt all of these will be introduced to the trade the coming spring. New Gladioli. — The Gladioli are destined to become the flower for the million. Their simple culture, and their mag- nificent flowers will render them universal favorites. The im- provement in the flowers is truly wonderful ; there seems to be no limit to their sportiveness. The new varieties of the present year surpass all previous ones, as beautiful as they were. Tints and colors known only in the orchids are repre- sented in the newest Gladioli. From the old orange and yel- low, we first had deep red an'd crimson, then pinks and rose colors ; next buff and fawn, and now straw and pale yellow; all being more or less streaked or spotted. We have already briefly described many varieties, and intend ere long to give a more complete account of them. We now name the fol- lowing new varieties as extremely beautiful : Canari, straw color; Ophir, yellow, spotted ; Napoleon III., scarlet ; Calyp- so, blush and pink ; Clemence Souchet, blush, striped with lake ; Due de Malakoff, crimson, with white throat ; Comte de Morny, crimson, with white throat ; Premices de Mon- trouge, scarlet crimson ; Vellida, blush, with carmine spots ; Madame de Vatry, blush, with crimson streaks ; Othello, dark ; Eugene Verdier, white, with carmine throat. Planted out in May, in good ricli soil, they bloom through August, and are only equalled among summer flowering bulbs by the Japan lilies. In autumn the bulbs should be taken up and wintered in any dry place where the frost will not reach them. Hibiscus sinensis grandiflorus. — This very beautiful va- riety is one of the most brilliant of our summer blooming greenhouse shrubs. The flowers are of the deepest rosy scar- • SEPTEMBER. 409 let, and full five inches in diameter. Wintered in the green- house and planted out in June it flowers abundantly all summer, displaying its crimson blooms on long slender stems, conspicuous amid the surrounding flowers which embrace all the showy plants of the garden. The foliage is small, deep green and glossy, and the habit strong and vigorous. It forms a bush four or five feet high. New American Roses. — Lovers of roses will read with pleasure the announcement of Mr. Ward, offering several new seedlings raised by our correspondent. Prof. C. G. Page of Washington, D. C. From the well-known reputation of Prof. Page, and his knowledge of the real properties of a good rose, we may expect some invaluable additions to our collec- tions of this beautiful flower. The brief descriptions can convey but a faint idea of their real excellence ; but the sim- ple fact that they are seedlings of Prof. Page will be a suffi- cient guarantee of their superiority. With the increasing taste for the rose, and partiality for new perpetuals, we doubt not a ready purchaser will be found, and these fine seedlings soon be offered to the public. PoRTULACA, Carnation-striped. — Another addition to the striped varieties of this showy annual. The flowers are white, distinctly striped with rose and crimson. It forms a fine bed in contrast with P. Pagei, the yellow striped variety raised by Prof. Page. New Zonale, or Horseshoe Geraniums. — This favorite flower, neglected by our own amateurs, but considered the most useful and valuable of bedding plants with English florists, has been greatly improved during the last three or four years. The new kinds are much dwarfer in habit, handsomer foliage, and freer blooming. Nothing can exceed in brilliancy a bed of the best scarlet flowering sorts. The following are now in bloom in our collection, and are remark- ably fine : — Emperor of the French — Robust habit, magnificent foliage, purple crimson band of great leaves, and light scarlet flowers. Empress of the French — More compact and spreading than the last, with vivid, cerise scarlet flowers. General Pellissier — Intense scarlet, fine form. 410 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. Glow Worm — A bright scarlet, of Tom Thumb habit. Lady Downes — Eosy carmine, good form, large truss. Little David — Very much superior to Tom Thumb, smaller leaf, more hardy o Mountford's Seedling — Fine scarlet. Richmond Gem — Bright orange scarlet, very large truss, flower stalks nearly white, strong grower. Royal Dwarf — Very large truss, free bloomer, dwarf habit, one of the best bedders. Scarlet Globe — Large bright scarlet, with clear white eye, large truss and free bloomer. Spitfire — Fine foliage, brilliant scarlet, extra. Wellington Hero — Orange scarlet, with the largest white eye yet seen, conspicuously beautiful. 471. CoLu'MNEA SCA'NDENS Linn. Climbing Columnea. (Gesneriaceae.) West Indies. A stove plant •, growing four feet high ; with crimson flowers ; appearing in spring ; increased by cuttings ; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi 5118. A handsome plant, having a small ovate foliage, and of a procumbent or climbing habit, if trained np. The flowers are large and tubular, and appear at the axils of the leaves, soli- tary, but in considerable profusion. As a plant for cultiva- tion in baskets, suspended from the roof of the stove, it is a valuable and fine acquisition. (^Bot. Mag-., June.) 472. A^GAVE MACULo^sA Hook. Spotted-leaved Dwarf Agave. (Amarylideae.) Texas. A half-hardy plant ; growing eiahteen inches high ; with greenish white and pinkish flowers ; appearing in autumn; increased by suckers ; grown in good rich soil. Bot. Mag., 11)59, pi. 51i2. An entirely new dwarf and interesting species from Texas, having spotted leaves, from four to six inches long, thick and fleshy, recurved, and producing a scape or stem, a foot to a foot and a half long, leafy below, terminated with a spike of ten or twelve rather distinct lanceolate flowers. It blooms in September. From its neat dwarf habit, the conspicuous spots on its leaves, and its free flowering character, it will form a valuable addition to that class of plants adapted to culture in vases for ornamenting Italian gardens, verandas, or the lawn. (^Bot. Mag-., June.) SEPTEMBER. 411 473. Rhodode'ndron Smi'thii Nutt. MS. Sir James Smith's Rhododendron. (Ericeae.) Bootan. A hair hardy shrub ; growing four feet high ; with crimson flowers ; appewing in spring ; n- creased by grafting ; grown in peal and sand. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi. 5120. This is another of the Bootan species, found by Mr. Booth, and introduced by Mr. Nuttall from his garden at Rainhill. It flowered in England at his place, for the first time, last March. It is a very splendid species, having compact clus- ters of the deepest crimson flowers. It promises to prove hardy in Great Britain, but in our severe climate it will undoubtedly require some protection in winter. Its brilliant color and fine habit render it a desirable plant. (^Bot. Mag., June.) 474. GoLDFu'ssiA Thompso^ni Hook. Dr. Thomson's Gold- FUSSIA. (Acanthacese.) Sikkim-Himalaya. A perennial frame plant ; growing a foot high ; with purple flowers; appearing in spring ; in- creased by cuttings or seeds; grown in light peaty soil. Bot. Mag., 18J9, pi. 5119. A pretty species, found by Drs. Thomson and Hooker on the Himalaya mountains, at an elevation of 6 — 9000 feet, where it forms a small herbaceous perennial of upright growth and lax habit. Leaves two to three inches long, oval. The flowers are purple, and appear in terminal clusters of three or more each. These appear in abundance, and are produced in succession for several weeks. It will probably prove a cool greenhouse or frame plant, blooming in the open ground in summer. {Bot. Mag-., June.) 475. Gynu^ra bi'color De Cand. Two Colored Gynura. (Compositeae.) Moluccas. A greenhoi:se plant; growing two feet high; with yellow flowers; appearing In summer; increased by ciillings ; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi. 5123. Introduced as long ago as 1799, by Sir Joseph Banks, but neglected and lost until " these days of popular admiration of the richly colored foliage of plants, truly nature and nature's own printing," it has again been restored, and will deservedly hold a place in our gardens, notwithstanding it belongs to a group " of much despised reeds, which includes our common groundsels.'''' Its leaves are on the underside, and sometimes on both sides, most richly dyed with purple ; and the flowers are not to be despised as far as color is concerned, for they 412 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. are of a rich golden Ime. In general appearance it resem- bles the Perilla, so popular and admired for its brownish purple leaves ; but this has the addition of large golden flowers which contrast boldly with the rich foliage. It is per- ennial. In England it is treated as a stove plant, where it flowers freely, but in our climate it would undoubtedly flour- ish well bedded out in summer. (^Bot. Mag-., June.) 476. Thunbe'rgia cocci'nea Wall. Red-floweeed Thun- BERGIA. (Acanthaceae.) India. a stove plant ; growing twenty feet hi:;h ; with scarlet flowers ; appearing in spring ; increased by cuttings ; grown in light rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1839, pi. 5124. A most remarkable and beautiful plant, sent to England forty years ago, but owing to its large size seldom seen. Messrs. Veitch & Co. have recently raised it from seeds re- ceived from India, and flowered it in their nurseries. It pro- duces racemes of flowers, from one to three feet long, each flower being enclosed in a large ovate brownish colored brac- teole, with the petals, which are orange in the centre and scarlet on the limb, reflexed over them. It is a very striking and superb plant, and if a free flowerer would be one of the most welcome additions to our collections. It is well worthy of trial, planting it out in summer, where we think it would bloom. It is common in the tropical jungles of the hilly regions of Nepal and Sikkim. (Bot. Mag-., July.) 477. Ceano'thus Yeitchia^nus Hook. Mr. Veitch's Oean- OTHUS. (Rhamnege.) California. a half-hardy shrub; growing four feet high; with deep blue flowers; appearing in spring; in- creased by cuttings; grown in light rich soil. Bnt. Mag., 1839, pi. 5127. The most magnificent of all the Californian Ceanothuses, having terminal spikes, fully three feet long, and with such a profusion of the deepest mazarine-blue flowers, as nearly to conceal the leaves throughout tlieir whole length. In England all our native species are quite hardy, and form the most beautiful garden shrubs ; but in our climate all that have yet been introduced suffer by the winter, which cuts down the shoots. This one, however, is handsome enough to deserve a place in every greenhouse collection, where its numerous spikes of blue flowers would contrast admirably with Deutzia gracilis, Spiraea Reevesu and similar hardy plants now com- SEPTEMBER. . 413 mon in the conservatoiy in winter. It would no doubt bloom abundantly in the open ground, if taken up and shel- tered in a cellar or frame in winter. (^Bot. Mag-., July.) 478. Rhodode'ndron Shephe'rdi Nutt. Mr. H. Shepherd's Rhododendron. (Ericeae.) Bootan. A half-hardy shrub; growing six feet high; with deep crimson flowers; appearing in spring; increased by grafting ; grown in peat, leaf mould and sand. Bot. Mag., 1S59, pi. 31:i5. This is still another of the very beautiful and novel forms of Rhododendron, introduced by the venerable Nuttall from Bootan, and flowered by himself at Nutgrove. Its nearest ally is R. barbatum. The leaves are three to four inches long, oblong acute, deep green above, pale beneath, " very thick and opaque." The flowers are of the richest scarlet crimson, with a darker shade in the throat, and appear in large terminal heads. As a species for hybridization it is an invaluable addition. QBot. Mag-., July.) 479. Datu^ra chlora'ntha fl. pleno. Double Yellow- flowered Thorn Apple. (Solanaceae.) South Australia. A half-hardy plant ; growing two feet high ; with double yellow flowers; appearing in summer; increased by cuttings; grown in rich soil. Bot. Mag., 1859, pi 5128. A new and superb double yellow variety, raised by Messrs. Henderson of the Pine Apple Nursery, from seed received from the Adelaide Botanic Garden, South Australia. Mr. Francis, the curator, describes it as follows : — " A species of Double Yellow Datura, very plentiful in these parts, sweet scented, and flowering all the summer, of a low spreading habit, producing its flowers seven to eight months throughout the twelve. This will be a useful plant to you in England. Planted in the open borders in June you may expect it to flower freely during the months of August, September, and October. Here it stands the winter, being almost decid- uous. I never saw it in England. It is worth your grow- ing, being a free bloomer." It is allied to the Brugmausia group, and the flowers are very similar to the double one so common in our gardens, except in color ; this being of a fine yellow. It will no doubt prove a very valuable bedding plant, and a fine companion to the D. WrightM and other fine summer flowering species. (J5o^. Mag., July.) 414 THE. MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. ieiteral Botices, London Horticultural Society. — Efforts are now making to estab- lish a new and more complete garden than the Society has ever pos- sessed, and, from present appearances, with every prospect of success. A full account of a late meeting to consider the means of carrying out the plan of the Council is reported in the Gardener's Chronicle, from which we copy the following notice : — In another column will be found a very full report of the meeting of the Horticultural Society last Thursday, assembled for the purpose of deter- mining whether they would authorize the council to proceed with the plan of forming a new garden in the centre of the quadrangle at Kensington Gore, belonging to H. M.'s Commissioners of the Great Exhibition of 1851. It will be seen that after hearing the details of the plan, inspecting the de- signs which had been prepared by order of the Royal Commissioners, and fully discussing the principal terms proposed by them, the meeting unani- mously authorized the Council to proceed. This essential point having been resolved on, an announcement was then made that so great is the interest taken by the queen and the prince con- sort in the welfare of the Horticultural Society, that her majesty, entirely approving of the plan approved by the Council, was most graciously pleased to signify her royal intention of subscribing the sum of one thousand pounds towards the fund which must be raised for carrying it out, and of causing various branches of the royal family to be elected as life members of the Society ; at the same time his royal highness authorized the meeting to be informed that he also was prepared to subscribe the sum of five hundred pounds in aid of the measure, and also to provide a further sum of one thousand pounds by taking ten of the debentures of one hundred pounds each, which the Society proposes to issue. It was at the same time an- nounced that H. R. H. the Princess Frederic William, princess royal of England, proposed to join the Society as a life member. It is needless to add that these munificent contributions were acknowledged with the deep- est gratitude by every one present, and that the noble chairman of the meeting was requested to convey to her majesty, to H. R. H. the prince consort, and to H. R. H. the princess royal, their most respectful thanks. So very considerable a number of new supporters of the Society was also named, in the event of the proposed garden being constructed, as to give the Council increased confidence in being able to bring their arrangements to a satisfactory termination. It is impossible to exaggerate the importance of this movement with reference to its bearing on the progress of English gardening. No public body ever imparted such a stimulus to cultivation as the Horticultural So- ciety, partly by introducing almost every new plant that found its way into gardens between the years 1816 and 1850, and partly by conferring medals and pecuniary rewards upon meritorious cultivators; the first of these operations having cost above thirteen thousand pounds for pay of collectors SEPTEMBER. 415 alone ; and the second having amounted to considerably more than twenty thousand pounds. Nor was there any abatement of activity in these two most important lines of operation, so long as the means at the disposal of the Society were sufficient. But when the world forsook the Chiswick Gar- dens for other places of more convenient access, income rapidly declined, and with income the power to render public services as formerly. A great opportunity now presents itself of recovering the lost income and very largely increasing it. There can be no possible doubt that a magnificent garden, such as it is proposed to construct at Kensington Gore, would be thronged daily by crowds of visitors eager to exchange the dirty streets of London for a place where they can cheaply enjoy the pleasures of a garden, without the inconvenient intrusion of that lowest class which infests all places of resort that are absolutely public. Its contiguity to the parks, and to the immense population of western London, together with the facility of access from the north and east by the North of London Railway, which is expected to be extended to the very corner of the proposed gar- den, renders the situation unrivalled in the vicinity of the metropolis. It is from the admission money paid at the gates on ordinary days, as well as on days specially set apart for great exhibitions or other occasions of unusual importance, that the income we contemplate will be derived, and that must of necessity be so large, especially while the garden enjoys the high privi- lege of being the favorite resort of our beloved sovereign and her royal family, as to reduce all such questions as providing the funds now demand- ed, to insignificance. That income again possessed, new plants, valuable for their hardiness, beauty, and utility, whether merely ornamental, or im- portant as additions to our dessert, our kitchens, or even our agricultural resources may be rapidly introduced and distributed among the Fellows of the Society. The world contains many a corner rich beyond belief in vegetable treasures that never yet have reached us, and with sufficient means at its disposal, the Horticultural Society will know how to penetrate such regions, and carry off whatever deserves to be introduced. The proposition submitted is as follows : — The Royal Commissioners of the Exhibition of 1851 offer to lease 20 acres of land to the Society for 31 years, and furnish £50,000. The Society are also to furnish an equal sum, £50,000, to carry out improvements. No fixed rent is to be charged. If the Society make any profits, after paying their expenses, and interest on the £50,000 borrowed by them, the surplus is to be divided between the Commissioners and the Society. Should there be no profits there will still be no accumulation of back rent. £20,000 of the Society's sum have been already taken up, and no doubt the whole amount will be obtained. We may therefore confidently expect a new garden on an extended scale will soon be commenced, and the Society once more be placed in the prominent and influential position it formerly held. Soils and Composts for Roses. — Charred garden refuse is used largely in the nurseries of Messrs. Wood & Son. They advise, however, when roses are planted out singly in lawns, or in beds among other plants, a hole should be made about eighteen inches deep, and large enough to 416 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. contain half a wheelbarrow full of compost ; two thirds of this should be strong turfy loam, (if it can be procured from an old pasture it is prefera- ble,) and one third well -decomposed animal manure. The latter should only be used on light hungry soils ; on naturally rich ground leaf mould should be substituted for it. These should be thoroughly mixed together; should the ground be dry at the time of planting, or, if it is done in spring, a liberal watering should be given before the soil is all filled in around the plants, and standards should be securely staked to prevent the winds from moving them, Avhich is very injurious. When beds are planted the ground should be deeply trenched, and afterwards a good dressing of manure should be applied. A small quantity of the compost recommended above, may also be added around each plant. As roses seldom thrive well in soils that have previously grown them for a number of years, it is advisable that when old beds are to be renewed, the soil should be removed to the depth of eighteen inches, and its place supplied with the above mixture. When a piece of ground is set apart for the exclusive cultivation of roses, the most open situation that is available should be selected ; if wet, it should be drained ; if it is inconvenient to use tiles, a layer of from four to six inches deep of broken stones, or any other coarse material, will answer the purpose; this done, the ground should be trenched as deeply as the nature of the soil will admit ; the beds may then be formed according to taste or circumstances, and the planting may be proceeded with as recommended above. November is the best month for transplanting, but it may be safely done from October to March. It is not advisable to prune at the time of, nor immediately after, planting. The first season the plants should all be headed back to two or three buds upon e:.ch shoot; this will insure a vigor- ous growth. With respect to pruning, this general rule should be borne in mind — that all strong growing roses should be pruned very moderately, while those of weak growth can scarcely be pruned too severely ; the flow- ering season may be greatly prolonged by pruning a portion of the collec- tions at intervals from December to March. — [Gard. Chron.) Gladioli. — On the occasion of a late visit to a friend, who is an enthu- siastic as well as successful amateur horticulturist, among many other ex- cellent things I noticed some fine beds of Gladioli ; particularly ramosus, gandavensis, insignis, and cardinalis, but foremost among all for its beauti- ful effect in a mass stood cardinalis. To be seen in perfection it should be grown in a circular bed, and, if possible, on an elevated part of the lawn ; then the graceful curve of the flower-stems, all round and down to the grass, makes one of the most beautiful masses of scarlet, and this too without the usual defect— too much green. To be grown in perfection my friend told me it should be planted in equal parts of rich loam and peat, and about one-fourth of the whole clean sharp sand, put in about four inches deep, early in autumn, and protected from frost by leaves, litter, or some such contrivance, and, as a principal point, not to be disturbed more than once every three or four years. If any of your readers who have not grown these plants with the above success will try this method they will be more than compensated for the trouble by the gorgeous display produced.— (M) SEPTEMBER. 417 Bldding Vines. — Having lately seen several articles in your columns relative to the propagation of the Vine, and conclusions drawn that the time will arrive when " grafted plants will be more common," I am induced to lay before your readers a system I have adopted, and which I have not seen alluded to in any treatise on the Vine ; nor in conversation with most experienced grape growers have I found they have practised it. It is cer- tainly far preferable to grafting, as a season for fruiting is gained, and a more perfect union effected — I allude to budding in the months of July and August. On August 9, 1858, I received from a nurseryman a small one- guinea plant of the Black Muscat Hamburgh, and having at one end of a vinery a plant of the Golden Hamburgh, and one of the Bowood Muscat, I waa desirous that the Black Muscat Hamburgh should be next to them, that I might fairly test the relative merits of these three fine grapes; but as there was a Black Hamburgh of two years planting next to the Golden Hamburgh, I did not like removing it to plant the Black Muscat Ham- burgh, but resolved on trying the effect of budding the Black Muscat Hamburgh on the stock of the Black Hamburgh. On the 10th August I inserted three buds, and at the time of winter pruning cut the Black Hamburgh down to the top bud inserted. Each bud has broken quite as strong as a natural eye, and on each shoot there were three as strong and fine bunches of grapes as could be desired. Since then the fruit from the leader has been removed, and also two bunches from each side shoot, leaving one to each bearer. This operation has been performed in a young vinery, where there are about forty vines, and the bunches on the shoots of the inserted buds are just beginning to color. I shall therefore fruit this season, side by side, from established plants in the border, the " Black Muscat Hamburgh," the " Golden Hamburgh," and the " Bowood Muscat." From what information I have been able to collect, I believe this to be an advance in the propagation of the vine not before practised. If it has been, [ should from any of your readers like to know, and if not, it gives me satisfaction to lay before the grape-growing world the result of my ex- perience.— [Card. Chron.) New and Old Roses. — In your leading article of the 2d instant, on the Roses, I think you are coming rather hard upon the new ones, and it would appear that you think the old sorts are not yet surpassed or even equalled because the former did not make their appearance in large numbers at the late National Rose Show. That many of the new roses sent out within the last three years are a decided advance, there can, I think be no ques- tion ; nor can it be denied that with them have appeared too many which should never have been made public. But the sterling sorts very soon prove themselves ; for instance, which of the old roses can equal the fine new rose Lelia, shown in Mr. Cranston's stand of 24 at the National in 1835, and has since maintained its reputation as the very finest rose of its color — delicate rose most beautifully shaped? I am not sure, but I should rather think, that it was not exhibited this season, as it bloonw VOL. XXV. — NO, IX. 27 418 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. . rather late. Then, again, take Victor Trouillard ; which of the old roses can equal it in its g' owing shades of carmine and scarlet? Certainly none of them, it again blooms rather late. Thomas Rivers is a most beautiful new rose, and I think not equalled by any of the old sorts of the same shade. Mathurin Regnier quite throws that fine old rose William Grif- fiths into the shade. Then take Souvenir de la Reine d'Angleterre, which is an improvement upon La Reim ; Madame Knorr is not equalled in its shade of color, deep rose, and outer petals — light shade; Madame Vidot is far in advance of the sorts older than itself, and not equalled in beauty of form and pureness of coloring, delicate flesh ; Pauline Lansezeur, Prince Leon, Lord Raglan, Lord Palmerston, and Jules Margottin are not old roses, and yet they are not equalled in their respective shades. I do not think it is because the new roses are not superior that they are not ex- hibited ; it is because they are propagated to that extent there are not strong shoots to produce those perfect blooms required for exhibition; when they become more plentiful they begin to make their appearance more fre- quently. I have seen most of the new roses sent out last season in bloom, but I cannot speak positively which is inferior, as they are not in a state to judge correctly. Then, again, I am quite of opinion the National Rose Show is held too early (on the 23d June,) even for the South. I particularly noticed, on the 23d of June, I had not more than a dozen expanded blooms amongst a stock of some 30,000 plants. I think the National Rose Show- held on the 23d of June cannot correctly be called National, as this is just the time my roses are in full beauty, July 6, and it will apply to the North generally. — ( Gard. Chron.) Cloth of Gold and Isabella Gray Roses. — In your impression of June 18, these are spoken of as being difficult to bloom, &c. ; there have been various reports of the merits of these roses, the fair Isabella appearing to be exceedingly capricious. In June, 1857, I procured a quantity of plants of the latter of Messrs. Henderson ; some I worked on the Manetti stock, others on the common briar ; one of the former I am growing in a 12 inch pot. Last autumn it had made very vigorous shoots, some of them four to six feet in length, but without any prospect of bloom until I pinched off the ends of two of the principal shoots, which immediately caused lat- erals to break all up the principal shoots, every one of which produced a splendid bud, but too late in the season to expand freely. Early this spring I pruned the spurs back close to the main shoots, and shortened the other shoots to six or eight eyes ; the plant began to grow freely in Feb- ruary, and in March showed 29 splendid blooms. Those shoots that were cot back to six or eight eyes did not show bloom, but after they had made a growth of about five feet I pinched off the points, and at the present time the laterals are again showing splendid blooms — the old shoots I have now cut out to give strength to the flowers. Afler the bloom is again over I intend to prune the spurs close back to the main stems, and I have but little doubt of procuring a third crop of blooms from this plant this season. A plant on the briar stock similarly treated has also produced an excellent SEPTEMBER. 419 show of blooms, but it does not appear to bear the pruning so well as that on the Manetti stock, as the shoots are breaking weakly ; the plants are both in a warm greenhouse. I have also another strong plant on its own roots of the same age as those above described, but it does not grow near so vigorous as the one on the Manetti, neither has it as yet produced a bloom. Of the Cloth of Gold, the finest specimen I ever saw was worked on the common Blush China Rose ; it nearly covered the entire front of the residence of C. Perkins, Esq., Picktree House, Chester-le-Street, Dur- ham ; the number of blooms and buds was enormous ; it was the admiration of every one who saw it. It was a treat of no ordinary kind to be enabled to visit the beautiful grounds that surround Mr. Perkins's house. Although in the midst of collieries and coke ovens, and in a cold country, it was marvellous how splendidly the Coniferae and other ornamental plants were grown ; the manner in which the grounds were laid out speal» highly of the good taste of the proprietor ; for a private grower his collection of roses is unique. The pleasure grounds are thickly belted with the Black Austrian Pine, one of the most useful and hardy plants for shelter in a cold and exposed country. — [Gard. Chron.) Farfugium GRANDE. — This beautiful-foliaged Chinese plant, which during the last two years has attracted so much attention, may now be found in all gardens of any importance as well as on the stages of exhibi- tions. As a decorative plant for the greenhouse all the year round it can- not be surpassed, and more especially during winter, when it takes a prom- inent position, its bright green shming foliage blotched with beautiful yel- low having an excellent effect. It thus furnishes an admirable substitute for flowers, which are generally scarce during the dreary months. When mixed with flowering plants in the open ground it produces an excellent contrast, and forms a feature new in flower gardening. As an edging its effect is most striking, and in a bed to contrast with Scarlet Geraniums it is extremely attractive. When, however, large plants become abundant, as they soon will, it will form a first-rate vase plant, and placed on balus- trades, associated with Scarlet Geraniums, it will produce a charming effect highly agreeable to the eye of taste. On mounds of rock-work it thrives well, and relieves the general aspect of this kind of gardening ; and it strikes me this is a natural position for it. There is one other and most important place which it must fill, and which also will induce its extensive patronage, and that is as a house plant, either for halls, vestibules, corridors, windows, drawing rooms, &c. It will stand the confinement of a close room with impunity. In the beginning of last October two plants were placed in a basket with some others in a warm room where the temperature varied from 55° to 65°. A considerable fire was maintained for five months during the winter, and although the plants are still there they present a degree of vigor undeteriorated by eight months' incarceration. This Farfugium will also obviate any objection which may be made to highly odoriferous plants, and secure it a place in every mansion and everj cottager's window. — [Id.) 420 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTUEE. dBssip of i|e P014. PiUMS NOT SUBJECT TO THE Black Knot. — I deem it of great im- portance to communicate through you to the public a list of such varieties of plum trees grown on this island as are here free from the depredations, unless in some solitary instance, of that pernicious insect which makes its attack on the branches by perforating and stinging the wood, thus poison- ing the sap, and producing, as a result, the excrescences which are so numerous on the Late Purple Damson and some other varieties : — Bleecker's Gage, Imperial Violet, Blue Imperatrice, Italian Damask, Brevoort's Purple, " Prune, Bradshaw, Jefferson, Cherry or Myrobalan Red, Magnum Bonum, White, " " Yellow, " " Yellow, Chicasaw Early Red, Nectarine, " Late Red, Orange, " Yellow, Orang-e Egg, Coe's Golden Drop, Peach, " Late Red, Prince's Yellow Gage, Duane's Purple, Prunus Americana, (all varieties,) Elfrey, " Maritima, English Yellow Gage, " Publescens, Hurling's Superb, Tomlinson's Charlotte, Imperial Gage, Washington. " Ottoman, The following varieties are the least affected by attacks of the curculio on the fruit, yet they frequently suffer partial loss: — Guthrie's Apricot, Italian Prune, Imperial Gage, Small Drap d'Or. — Yours, respectfully, Wm. R. Prince, Flushing, L. L The Ott Pear. — I have been much surprised at the size of the Ott Pear this season. I have specimens fully equal to an ordinary White Doyenn6 in size. — Very truly, yours, W. D. Brinckle, Groveville, JST. J. Extraordinary Budding of Roses. — Being an advocate for early budding in this climate, I inserted this season some buds of the new rose America, during the last week in May and first week in June, upon Ma- netti stocks. From those buds there are now, on the second of August, strong bushes, three, four, and five feet high, some of which yielded good blooms in the middle of July. I have never seen such rapidity of propaga- tion, and it certainly behoves the nurseryman to begin as early as possible with the budding of strong growers, instead of waiting till August, as gen- erally directed.— Chas. G. Page, fFashington, Aug. 2, 1859. SEPTEMBER. 421 Babon Hallez Rose. — Since writing the article in your August num- ber I am informed that Baron Hallez is the same as Baron de Claparede, the full name being Baron Hallez de Claparede. Baron Hallez is a charm- ing rose, but I have never seen such flowers from it as those from a plant which came to me marked Baron de Claparede. The difference must be owing to culture, or the health of the plants. — Yours, truly, Chas. G. Page. The New Strawberries. — A writer in a contemporary journal thus speaks of the new acquisitions to this fruit : — Why, my dear sir, we are to have from Watervleit " a very vigorous grower, equalling Wilson's Alba- ny in productiveness, berries of larger size and brighter color, and not so acid." The Fillmore, which " has proved to be as far superior to all (the Italics are my own) as Hovey is to Old Scarlet." And to cap the climax, Downer's Prolific, " equal to McAvoy's Superior, or Hovey's Seed- ling in size, Burr's New Pine in flavor, and six times as productive as any of the 100 varieties cultivated in its vicinity ?" What more can the most enthusiastic progressive desire ? For this have I yearned in my day dreams for years — large, productive, and flavor of Burr's New Pine. I hope the seven thousand five hundred will be immediately forthcoming. What are the hundred varieties cultivated in that vicinity ? How productive are they ? Could we not have something specific on this important item ? [Yes, why can't we. — Ed.] Catalogues, &c., received. — A. Frost & Co.'s Descriptive Catalogue of Roses, Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Flowering Plants, &c., for 1859 and 1860. Genesee Valley Nurseries, N. Y. D. Miller, Jr.'s Descriptive Catalogue of Fruit and Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Plants, Vines, &c., cultivated and for sale at the Cumberland Nur- series, near Carlisle, Pa. 1859 and 1860. Descriptive Catalogues of Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Vines, Roses, &c., cultivated and for sale by Thorp, Smith & Hanchett, at the Syracuse Nurseries. Syracuse, N. Y. 1859 and 1860. Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees, Shrubs and Plaiits, cultivated by Hatch &. Co., at the Central Nurseries, Jackson, Miss. 1859. Descriptive Catalogue of Selected Roses and Fruit Trees for 1859 and 1860, raised and for sale by F. A. Mange, Augusta, Ga. Cool. — Giving an old favorite the cold shoulder. " Hovey's Seedling sometimes succeeds well." — Country Gentleman. True — " We have also known it to succeed sometimes." — Homestead. No doubt of it. The Country Gentleman is decidedly cool sometimes. The Thirty-First Annual Exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society will be held at the Music Hall, Boston, com- mencing on Tuesday, the 20th of September, and closing on Friday the 23d. In addition to the Schedule of Prizes published by the Society, $200 are offered for rare plants, &c. 422 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. Hovet's Seedling Renamed. — A paragraph in your August number respecting a seedling strawberry gives offence in this quarter. Please call on the Secretary of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society for the history of this so-called Germantown seedling, as the by-laws of the society re- quires all new seedlings to be accompanied by a history or description. On reference to Mr. Saunders he informs me that he stated at the Pomo- logical Meetmg in New York last September, tliat the Fruit Committee of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society had decided " Yoxing^s German- town" to be identical with " Hovey's Seedling." New light has broke in, or a year of culture has changed the characteristics of your very sportive berry. Indeed, I once heard a popular strawberry writer pronounce "Burr's Pine," forced, to be Hovet. He was overruled by a better judge. Why cannot the Report of the Pomological Society give such an important item a place in its report? Here was a member of the Pennsyl- vania delegation questioned by W. R. Prince as to the identity of a new fruit originating from his immediate vicinity, and not a word of the subject appears in the report. It is to be hoped you Boston gentlemen, who have the credit of controlling the business of the Pomological Society, will give us a better report, if not a better officer to prepare it. — R. R. Scott, Philadelphia. The Best Six Strawberries. — In your last Magazine you have mis- construed the Report of the Committee of Farmers' Club, New York, on Strawberries. That committee consisted of two Wilson's strawberry vend- ers, two neutrals, not conversant with the subject, and Prof Huntsman, a highly intelligent connoisseur. Four out of five not being conversant with any but some old varieties and their speciality the Wilson, the superior new varieties could not be considered at all. Mr. Huntsman found himself unable to do the subject any justice, but he insisted that the '■•acidity" of the Wilson should be stated, and also that their Report be declared " Pro- visional" and to refer only to " Varieties generally known, leaving the con- sideration of new varieties to some other occasion," with this additional re- mark, " It is therefore very probable that a better selection might be made by embracing some of the recently produced varieties." The passages in italics were insisted on by Prof Huntsman, the chair- man, as a sine qua non, and against great opposition from the two venders of the Wilson. It is to be hoped that on the next occasion a competent Committee will be appointed, possesling a knowledge of tlie great prog- ress made in the culture of this favorite fruit. — lours, veiy truly, W. R. Prince, P. S. I send you a box of plants of Scarlet Magnate, producing the heaviest berry ever grown in our country; bright scarlet, sweet, juicy, very good flavor, a splendid fruit, very solid, and suitable for long carriage. [We did not suppose any five individuals who knew anything of strawber- ries and strawberry culture would give to the public such a list of varieties as that referred to above ; but we gave the report for what it was worth. Nobody grows some of the kinds only as garden curiosities, or to gratify SEPTEMBER. 423 a wilful opinion. We are much obliged for the attentions of Mr. Prince, and will give his well-known variety a fair trial. — Ed.] Missouri Botanical Garden. — A correspondent of the Boston Tran- script gives the following interesting account of the formation of a public Botanical Garden in St. liouis, through the munificence of Henry Shaw, Esq , a wealthy citizen of that city : — The great material advance of this Western City is accompanied by a rapid movement of mind. Men seem to be inspired by the great circum- stances which surround them. Projects which wouliJ be magnificent as the results of an old civilization, are undertaken, and carried forward with sur- prising energy, judgment and success. We could mention numerous instances, but none more in point than the Missouri Botanical Garden, some account of which I transcribe for the ben- efit of your readers. It is well known that Mr. Henry Shaw has been engaged for several years in carrying out very quietly and unostentatiously one of the most magnificent projects in this or any other country, to wit: the establishment and endowment, by private individual munificence, of a Public Garden, on a broad and liberal plan, at Tower Grove, his beautiful country residence. The land to be given for this purpose comprises over six hundred acres, or one mile square, of the richest soil, and most beauti- ful surface, and at one point has a front of fifteen acres on our great West- ern Boulevard, Grand Avenue, about three miles from the most central point in the city of St. Louis. At right angles to this, is to be an approach to the Garden through Flo- ral Avenue, which will be about a mile in length, sixty feet wide, and bordered by ornamental shade trees. The Entrance Gate is already com- pleted. It is of cut stone, and, combining architectural beauty with the most solid material and workmanship, presents a fine appearance. The gateway includes rooms for the keeper, as also retiring rooms for visitors. On the other side is a recessed wall, surmounted by a heavy iron railing. The high stone fence surrounding the garden proper on three sides is intended to protect it from the wintry winds. It includes ten acres, which scientific experience has shown to be amply sufficient. The whole has been deeply trenched and thoroughly sewered, at considerable expense. The walks are well made: first there is a layer of refuse coal slack, then one of broken stone, then another of coal slack, on this again a layer of cinders from the sulphuric acid manufactory, and on top of all a layer of fine Merrimac gravel, well set by being rolled — the whole forming six inches of solid material on which no grass can ever grow. The middle of many of the walks is paved with fine pressed brick, which will render the walking more pleasant in the early spring and in wet weather. These walks are most tastefully laid out, and the plantation of evergreens and shrubbery has been begun, so that it is possible to take in with the eye the beauty and completeness of the whole design. The Conservatort. — At an extremity of the Garden there is an ex- tensive conservatory now ready finished. It is of most ingenious contrivance 424 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. throughout. The glass roof is arranged in zigzag, so that the sun's rays are not reflected, but the larger portion of their heat will be transmitted to the interior. Separated by a wall, with suitable openings from the conservatory, are the potting and gardener's houses, as also the furnaces which are to heat the water for circulating in the pipes of the greenhouse and forcing-room. The Pavilion. — Mr. Shaw informed us of his intention to begin next year a row of plant-houses near the middle of the garden. These will con- stitute a chief feature and ornament ; the central structure, of some 80 by 40 feet, being the largest, and to be called the Pavilion. It will be con- structed of glass and iron columns upon stone arches, somewhat after the style of the famous Conservatory at Chatsworth, or the Crystal Palace. The Fruticetum. — To the north of the Garden proper, two arched openings afford a communication with the Fruticetum. Six acres substan- tially enclosed have been devoted to this purpose. The ground, now being thoroughly trenched, has been laid out with eight walks radiating from a common centre, whilst a winding one of equal width encircles the outer limits. Here every best variety of fruit trees will be introduced and culti- vated. The Arboretum. — On the west of the Garden, twenty-five additional acres will be devoted to an Arboretum, where all kinds of trees will find their place. Here will be introduced specimens of the numerous varieties of oaks and elms, and every other obtainable tree of our own and of other lands. We noticed two fine specimens of the giant trees of California, whilst Asia has yielded her cedars of Lebanon, and Africa some of the most remarkable of her lords of the forest. Australia, too, is represented by one of the most beautiful and graceful trees imaginable, the Australian pine. The Library and Museum is in process of erection. It has reached the second story. Like everything about the place, it is built in the most costly and enduring manner. Judging from the design of this building, it will be very tasteful and convenient. The two upper stories are intended for the reception of a Library and Museum, whilst the high and spacious basement will be devoted to the use of a school, for the teaching of scientific horti- culture. Considerable progress toward a library has been already made by Mr. Shaw, in the purchase of many rare and valuable works on botany, through a scientific friend, himself an eminent botanist, who recently visited Europe, and through whom also he was fortunate enough to secure an herbarium, already arrived, numbering over forty thousand specimens. The Museum will contain varieties of ail kinds of woods, and of every vegetable product. The present elegant residence will be reserved for the Curator, and for the meetings of the Trustees, to whom the charge of the Garden will be ultimately entrusted. The Curator will be a man of highly scientific and practical ability, thoroughly versed in all that pertains to the science and art of botany and horticulture. The whole project, therefore, is now assuming definite form and shape. SEPTEMBER. 425 The present value of the property is about a million of dollars, and from its proximity to a great and rapidly growing city, it must in time reach a far higher sum. What a magnificent enterprise is this ! How beautiful, how useful, how noble ! All honor to Henry Shaw ! May his life be long spared to super- intend and develop his grand and difficult undertaking. [The whole history of our country, with all the numerous bequests and endowments of its wealthy men for charitable, educational and religious objects, does not furnish an instance of such private munificence as this, nor, indeed, one calculated to confer a greater benefit upon mankind, or increase the rational pleasures of a large class of our people. No similar project has ever been attempted, though so much needed in every great city, and the memory of Mr. Shaw will be forever cherished with the deepest gratitude for his princely gift. Fortunate the man who can have such mu- nificence to dispense, but ten times more fortunate that he should dispense it as Mr. Shaw has done, rather than leave it to be misappropriated or squandered as has been too often done. — Ed.] Sotidies, AMERICAN INSTITUTE, NEW YORK. The Thirty-First Annual Fair of the American Institute will be held at the Palace Garden, corner of Fourteenth Street and Sixth Avenue, New York, opening on Thursday, Sept. 21, and close on Friday, Oct. 28. $1600 in premiums are offered for agricultural, horticultural and floral pro- ducts. We have not space to enumerate the premiums, but name the principal ones for fruits as follows : — Fruits. — Best collection, not less than 75 varieties, silver cup, $20. Apples. — Best collection, not less than 25 sorts, six specimens of each, silver cup, $15. Pears. — Best collection of 50 varieties, not less than five specimens of each, silver cup, $15. Foreign Grapes. — Best four named varieties, two bunches each, silver cup, $10. There are three series of premiums, one to be entered Sept. 21, the other Oct. 5th, and the third Oct. 19th. The prizes will be given to each. Numerous liberal prizes for other fruits and flowers are offered, which are enumerated in the schedule, to be obtained on application to the Sec- retary, J. W. Chambers, New York. HEW YORK STATE AGRICULTURAL. The next Annual Fair of this Society will be held at Albaay, Oct. 4, 5, 6 and 7, 1859. 426 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The schedule of premiums has not been received, but we presume they are nearly the same as last year. Lists of the prizes may be obtained on application to Col. Johnson, Secretary, Albany, N. Y. CONNECTICUT STATE AGRICULTURAL. The sixth Annual Show will be held at Brewster Park, New Haven, Oc- tober 1], 12, ]3 and 14, 1859. Liberal premiums are offered for fruits and flowers, but all competition is confined to the State, except for one class of fruits, to which any person may contribute, and the judges are authorized to award liberal premiums. Ulctssatjjusctts portiailhirnl So(}% Saturday, July 2, 1859. — The stated quarterly meeting of the Society was held to-day — C. M. Hovey, Vice President, in the chair. No business of importance was transacted, and the meeting adjourned for one week to July 8. Exhibited. — Flowers: From A. Apple, a new perpetual rose, Ludwig IL ; also roses, delphiniums, and other flowers. From E. S. Rand, roses, clematis, gloxinias, &c. From M. Trautman, very fine seedling double petunias. From F. Parkman, fine seedling delphiniums. Cut flowers were also contributed by J. Nugent, G. Evers, Hovey & Co., and others ; also a fine collection from the President. GRATUITIES AWARDED. To M. Trautman, for double petunias, $2. To A. Apple, for display, .$2. To J. Nugent, for climbing roses, #3. To W. J. Underwood, for fine pinks, $2. To G. Evers, for display, $2. To F. Parkman, for delphiniums; E. S. Rand, for display; E. Wight, for the same ; Miss Harris, for bouquet ; Miss Kenrick, for basket, and J. Nugent, for Erica ventricosa superba, $1 each. July 8. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. Mr. Walker, from a committee appointed to investigate the charges against the Society, in an article in the Horticulturist, read a report. On motion of Hon. J. S. Cabot, its consideration was laid over till the next meeting. Adjourned three weeks to Aug. 6. Exhibited.— Fruit : From G. B. Cordwell and William Bacon, beautiful Black Tartarian cherries. From J. W. Manning, a strawberry called Cut- ter's Seedling, an accidental variety, found in a garden in New Hampshire. From C. E. Grant, fine Napoleon Bigarreau cherries. From James Nugent, SEPTEMBER. 427 new Black Bigarreau cherries, fine. Mrs. Durfee, J. Breck and J. P. Allen sent grapes, very fine ; Mrs. Durfee's Cannon Hall were beautiful speci- mens. From M. P. Wilder, Bigarreau De Mezel and Cumberland cherries, the former large and handsome. JuJy 16. — Exhibited. Flowers: From the President, Mr. Breck, a fine display of phloxes. From A. Apple, seedling hollyhocks, twelve varieties; also, verbenas, petunias, and other flowers. From F. Winship, twelve vari- eties seedling hollyhocks and other flowers. From E. S. Rand, gloxinias in variety, a seedling gloxinia, and other flowers. From Miss E. M.Harris, Lilium canad6nse and philadelphicum. From W. H. Spooner, Jr., a fine show of verbenas. From Jona. French, carnations and picotees, well grown and in fine order. From G. Evers, picotees in variety ; also, Fuchsia Sou- venir de Chiswick and Rose of Castile, and cut flowers of Phlox Mad. Hilaire, Mad. Sueno, Marie Bolangier, Alex. Russell, Souvenir, Mad. Poire, and others — some of them very fine ; also, new double petunias, Van Houttei, Lion, and Reine Blanche. From Hovey &. Co , carnations and picotees in variety, and phloxes. From M. Trautman, plants of Trachelium coerulium, Coleus Bluinei, and Oldenlandm Deppei; also, cut flowers of several very beautiful double pe- tunias, seedlings. From W. C. Strong, 18 gloxinias, as follows: Princess Royal, Lady Franklin, Rose Mutabilis, Miranda, Mount Parnassus, Helio- dorus, Guido Reni, Chauvieri, Tarragona, Paul Veronese, Duke of Wel- lington, Auricula, Alba auriculata, Marie, Carlo Maretti, and alba grandi- flora, all good, and some of them very fine ; they were all finely grown and exhibited in excellent order; — also. Gesnen'a cinnabarina, rare and beauti- ful, and Gesneria Donckelaeri. From B. K. Bliss, a fine display of holly- hocks, carnations and picotees. From W. J. Underwood, fine carnations and picotees. AWARD OF PREMIUMS AND G-^ATUITIES. Carnations. — For the be.st, to Jona. French, for the following varieties : Sarah Payne, Poor 'I'om, Earl Spencer, William IV., Ad. Curzon, Black Diamond, Africanus, Mary Boiinbroke, Bonny Press and Dia- mond, $5. For the next, to Hovey & Co., for the following : — Mayor of Oldham, Admiral Curzon, Robert Thompson, Lord Goflerich, Sir J. Paxton, Squire Meynell, King of Carnations, Lord Radcliflfe, Ariel, $4. For the next, to W. J. Underwood, $3- Picotees. — For the best, to W. J. Underwood, $5. For the next, to Jona. French, ^3. For the next, to Hovey & Co., $2. Hollyhocks. — For the best, to A. Apple, $5. For the next, to F. Winship, $2. Gloxinias. — For the best, to W. C. Strong, $6. For the next, to E. S. Rand, #4. For the best new seedling, the Silver Medal to E. S. Rand, for Mrs. Becker. Gratuities.— To B. K. Bliss, for display, $2. 428 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. To A. Apple, for display, #2. To W. C. Strong, for display, #2. To G. Evers, for display, $2. To Jona. French, B. Bruce, Hovey & Co., Miss Harris, Miss Russell, Miss Kenrick, M. Trautman, (bouquets,) F. Winship, J. Murray and W. C. Strong, (plants,) $\ each. Fruit: From W. H. Barnes, La Fertile and Red and White Dutch cur- rants. From W. C. Strong, Macrocarpa, La Caucasse and Versaillaise cur- rants. From C. E. Grant, Napoleon Bigarreau cherries, fine. Capt. Austin and J. W. Foster had fine Knevet's Giant raspberries. From O. Bennett, ten varieties of grapes, very handsome specimens, well colored; also, peaches and Fillbasket raspberries. Messrs. Rand, Breck and J. F. Allen sent fine grapes ; F. Dana, currants, and G. Merriam, Brinckle's Orange raspberries. Hovey & Co. sent Montmorency cherries ; A. Smith, Black Bigarreau of Savoy cherries. July 23. — Exhibited. Fruit : From J. Mitchell, very fine gooseberries. From A. Bowditch, Red and White Dutch currants. From M. P. Wilder, French White, La Fertile and La Versaillaise currants, the latter very fine. J. F. Hyde &- Son, Mountain Seedling gooseberries. From J. F. Allen, four var. of grapes, peaches, lemons, &c. From E. S. Rand, B. Hamburgh grapes. Breck & Son, six var. of grapes. From G. Nichols, Muscat of Alexandria, Grizzly and Black Frontignan grapes. From R. S. Rogers, very fine Cannon Hall, Black Hamburgh, Royal Muscadine and White Portugal grapes. J. W. Foster, La Caucasse, La Versaillaise, (fine,) Gon- douin White, Cherry, Red Dutch, and La Fertile currants ; also, Knevet's Giant raspberries. Wm. H. Barnes, White and Red Dutch and Victoria currants. Victoria and White Dutch currants from F. Dana. July .30. — Exhibited. Fruit : From A. D. Webber, very fine gooseber- ries. From Capt. Wilson, fine currants. From S. Merriam and J. Nugent, very fine Dorchester blackberries. From F. Dana, White and Red Dutch currants. From E. S. Rand, Black Hamburgh grapes. From J. Breck & Son, fine Muscat of Alexandria and other grapes. From J. F. Allen, six var. grapes, peaches, &c. From H. Vandine, Jaune Hative plums and Doyenn6 d'Ete pears. From W. H. Barnes, Victoria and White Dutch currants. Aug. 6. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. The Secretary being absent, Mr. E. S. Rand, Jr., was appointed Secreta- ry pro tem. Mr. S. Walker, Chairman of the Committee appointed in May to investi- gate the charges against the Society, in an article in the Horticulturist, read a report which was taken up for action. After considerable discussion, by Messrs. Cabot, E. A. Bracket, J. F. C. Hyde, C. M. Hovey, and others, Mr. E. S. Rand moved to accept the re- port, but the Society voted to reject it. The meeting then adjourned for one week to Aug. 13. Exhibited. — Fruit : Fine Dorchester blackberries from J. Nugent, G. Merriam, A. Bowditch, J. W. Foster, F. Dana, and W. H. Barnes. From SEPTEMBER. 429 J. F. Allen, several varieties of grapes. From E, S. Rand, Black Ham- burgh grapes, well colored and good. From B. Harrington, handsome Williams and other apples. From J. Munroe, River and Early Harvest apples. From H. Vandine, Doyenn^ d'Ete and Madeleine pears. AWARD OF PREMIDMS FOR FRUITS. Cherries. — For the best, to Wm. Bacon, for Black Tartarian, $4. For the next, to G. B- Cordwell, for Black Tartarian, #3. For the next, to J. Nugent, for new large Black Bigarreau, $2. Grapes.— For the best, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee, $8. For the next, to J. Breck &, Son, $6. For the next, to O. Bennett, $4. Peaches.— For the best, to C. S. Holbrook, for Early Crawford, $5. For the next, to J. F. Allen, for Coolidge's Favorite, $3. Strawberries. — For the best, to J. Scolt, for Brighton Pine, #5. For the next, to J. Fay, for Jenny Lind, $4. Gratuity. — To F. Winship, for varieties, $2. Avg. 13. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. In the absence of the Recording Secretary, Dr. Wight acted as Secre- tary pro tern. A memorandum of the records of the last meeting was read, and being incorrect, J. O. Williams, Esq., moved their amendment. The record stated that " pending a motion to reconsider," the meeting adjourned. It was amended by striking out the words " pending a motion to reconsider," by a vote of 2» to 10. The record also read, that Mr. Walker from the committee " read the following report." It was voted to amend by striking out the words, " read the following report," and substituting, " read a report, which was taken up for action." After further discussion of the subject, Mr. J. F. C. Hyde stated that, desirous of giving the meeting an opportunity to reach the question, though it was very doubtful whether lie should vote in accordance with his motion, he should move a reconsideration of the vote at the last meeting, by which the report of the committee was rejected. The motion to reconsider was again rejected by a large majority. The President nominated a committee of five to nominate a list of offi- pers for the ensuing year, and Messrs. F. Burr, W. J. Underwood, P. B, Hqvey, W. R. Austin and A. Bowditch were appointed. Adjourned three weeks to Sept 3d. Exhibited. — Fruit: From R. S. Rogers, Barbarossa, Black Hamburgh and White Portugal grapes, the first large and fine. From J. F. Allen, Bowker, Bishop, and Flame-colored Tokay grapes, Elizabeth pears and lemons. Fine Dorchester blackberries from J. Nugent, G. Merriam, J. W. Foster and F. Dana ; those from Mr. Nugent remarkably large. Red Ae^ trachan apples from A. D. Webber and H. Vandine. From B. Harrington, Williams, Sopsavine, and River apples. From F. Burr, Early Huveet apples. 430 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTUEE. ^ug. 20. — Exhibited. Flowers : The Hall was filled with a remarkably beautiful collection of flowers. The President, Mr. Breck, contributed fine asters, balsams, phloxes, gladioluses, and other flowers. C. Copeland, a stand of very fine seedling petunias, some of them decided acquisitions. M. Trautman also sent a lot of petunias, some of them seedlings, double, very large and fine. G. Evers, roses, phloxes and asters. A. Bowditch, a fine coll(;ction. A. Apple, fine asters, 10 week stocks, and other annuals. Barnes & Washburn, fine gladioli, asters, balsams, dahlias and petunias. G. G. Hubbard, J. French, T. G. Whytal, W. C. Strong, Warren Heustis and others, collections of flowers. Hovey & Co. contributed a large and very fine collection of 130 varieties of annuals, including among others the following newer and rarer sorts: — Abronia umbellata, Calerhoe pedata, Calliopsis Burridgw, Cerinthe gymnan- dra, Chloris radiata, Z>ianthus hispanicus splendens, Gymn6psis uniserialis, Heleniura atropurpureum, Lobek'a acuminata, Lupinus Hartw^gu cselesti- num, Mesembryanthemum pomeridium, (Enothera Drummondii nana, Pen- nisetum longistilum, Statice Bonduelli and Fiscaria polyantha; also, ten var. of rare Gladiolus, viz.: Canari, Ophir, (both yellow,) Due de Malakoff, Napoleon III., Calypso, Vellida, Don Juan, Hector, Premices de Montrouge, and Clemence Souchet. A collection of twenty vars. Petunias, including the following new double sorts: King of Crimsons, atroroseum, venosum, rosea alba. Crimson Gem, Rosette and Princess Helene. A collection of Hybrid Perpetual and Bourbon roses, among them the superb Gloire de Dijon: also, phloxes, fine hollyhocks and dahlias ; and plants of Achimenea Meteor, Dentoniana and Eckhautei, and Statice Halfordi. AWARD OF PREMIUMS. Balsams. — For the best, to Barnes & Washburn, $4. Phloxes. — For the best, to W. C. Strong, $3. Petunias. — For the best, to Hovey & Co., #4. For the next, to M. Trautman, $3. Annuals. — For the best collection, to Hovey & Co., $6. For the next, to A. Apple, $4. . For the next, to Barnes & Washburn, #3. Gladiolus. — For the best, to Hovey & Co., $4. For the next, to Barnes & Washburn, $3. Fruit: From J. Nugent, Dorchester blackberries of remarkable size, twenty five berries weighing 6J ounces. C. S. Holbrook, very fine speci- mens of Wilmot's Black Hamburgh, Syrian, Black Prince, and Black Ham- burgh grapes. F. Dana, Duane's Purple and Jefferson plums, and Beurr6 Giflfdrd pears. H. Vandine, three varieties plums, Beurr6 GifFard and other pears, and fine Red Astrachan apples. J. F. Allen sent specimens of two hybrid grapes, one (No. 13) black, oval, firm flesh and little foxy ; also, Bowkerand other foreign grapes. B. Harrington and G. B. Cutter, beauti- ful specimens of Williams apples. Hovey & Co., Supreme de Quimper, Alexandrina, Bloodgood and Boston pears. C. E. Grant, handsome Black Hamburgh and Chasselas grapes. P. R. L. Stone, handsome Bloodgood SEPTEMBER. 431 iorticiiltwral ©ptrations FOR SEPTEMBER. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. The drought of July has been incessant up to the fourth week in August, and crops of all kinds, particularly fruit, have suffered severely ; even im- mediate rain will hardly swell up many of the early pears, though it would benefit the trees. Now is the time to make preparations for fall planting ; if possible, the ground should be cleared away, and if to be trenched, as it should be, it should be done immediately, while it is dry and in fine order for the work. Wet land should now be underdrained. Soils for trees in pots should now be collected and prepared for early spring use. Grape Vines in the forcing-house, intended for very early crops, should be set to work this month. Keep the vines well syringed until they have broken freely. Allow the border to receive the benefit of warm rains. Vines in the grapery will now be maturing their crop, and will need but little attention. Air freely, night and day, in order to thoroughly ripen the wood. Vines in cold graperies will now be ripening their fruit, and should have careful attention. Air freely in good weather, and discontinue syr- inging. Pear Trees may still be pruned ; cut away superfluous shoots not wanted to form a symmetrical head, and pinch in all vigorous laterals; continue to thin out ill-formed and inferior specimens, as it is the month of September when fruits make their greatest growth. Strawberry Plants may be set out; manure and dig or trench the soil. Spring plantations should be thinned of superfluous runners and kept clear of weeds. Peaches should be budded. Froit Trees in pots should be rather sparingly watered in order to thoroughly ripen the wood. FLOWER department. With September again comes the preparation for winter, especially where there are collections of indoor plants. Though frosts usually hold oflf till October, still there are so many plants which receive injury even from chilly nights, that housing must be commenced as early as the 15th or 20th. Pot- ting off" plants from the open ground should begin early, that the work may not be behind-hand: commence with the more tender things. Have in readiness all the frames at command, as many things require protection and shade after removal ; and the later plants can be kept out of the houses the better for their health. See that the flues, boilers and pipes are in com- plete order for the winter : if not, now is the time to attend to it. Camellias should be removed to the house by the 25th of the month. Attend to the preparation of the plants by washing, staking, pruning out dead wood, &c. Wash every pot before it goes into the house. Azaleas, kept growing late, should now be watered less, and removed 432 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. to the open air in a half shady place, where they can ripen the wood and Bet their buds. Very young stock may be kept growing. Chrtsanthemums should now have an abundance of water, and liquid manure twice a week. Callas should now be repotted and freely watered. Cinerarias should be kept in a frame as long as the weather will admit. Fumigate for the green fly. Chinese Primroses should be kept in a frame and receive more light and warmth. Cuttings may be put in now. Pelargomums should now be repotted: shake the old plants out of the soil, put into smaller pots, and place in a frame where they can be protected from heavy rains and the hot sun. Pot off cuttings and treat in the same manner. Bouvardias, planted out in the open ground, should be taken up and potted. Bedding Plants of all kinds should be propagated this month: a frame or old hotbed is the best place for this purpose. Cyclamens should be repotted. Orange Trees should be housed early, before very cool nights. Heaths should be potted and have the protection of a frame. Monthly Carnations should be potted. Neapolitan Violets should be potted and placed in a cold frame. Stocks for winter blooming should be potted, and placed in a frame till well rooted. Nemophila and other winter-flowering annuals should now be planted and placed in a frame. Plants of all kinds for winter blooming should now be looked over, re- potted if they require it, tied up, pruned, and put in order for the house. FLOWER garden AND SHRUBBERY. The very severe drought has given a yellow hue to the lawn, and checked its growth so much that mowing will hardly be required until after rain. Roll at once after wet weather. Clean, rake and roll the walks. Now is a good time to remove evergreens. Carnations and Picotees should be watered if the weather continues dry. Dahlias should be carefully pruned of superfluous laterals and the shoots tied up as they advance in growth: water freely. Hollyhocks may be propagated from cuttings. Seed sown in boxes and wintered in the house will produce plants which will bloom next year. Pansies may be propagated from cuttings, and seeds may be planted for spring blooming. Pjsonies may be transplanted this month. Japan Lilies, now in bloom, will remain in perfection much longer if protected from the hot sun and heavy dews. White Lilies, and other kinds done blooming, may be reset this month. Tiger Flowers, Tuberoses and other tender bulbs should be taken up before frost. PRUNING ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS. Nothing is so little understood, either physiologically or practically, among amateur cultivators, and even among many gardeners, as pruning. To most persons it is the vague idea of something to be cut off, but for what purpose or why, few can really give a good reason. It is the general- ly received opinion that everything that grows in the shape of a tree or bush must be pruned, and we frequently see this carried out by lopping off the lower branches of coniferous or evergreen trees, — ^.to their utter ruin. Some individuals cut off the top, others the lower limbs, and we think it safe to say that three quarters of all the trees, both fruit and for- est, that are annually planted, are more or less injured by this barbarous habit of cutting and pruning. To siich an ex- tent has it spread that we must interpose a few words in behalf of the disfigured objects which are so conspicuous everywhere. In our occasional visits to the rural districts of our city, we have been much surprised at the peculiar style of pruning ornamental shrubs, which appears to be upon the increase and we fear likely to become fashionable with the possessors of suburban residences, unless they can be persuaded that it is contrary to all rules of good taste, and destructive of the picturesque character of the grounds, except, it may be, where the severe Dutch or geometric style is to be carried out. A few years ago an occasional specimen was only to be seen, but now we notice whole plantations subjected to this treatment. Passing some beautiful grounds in our vicinity not long since, at nearly dusk, we were struck with what we thought two gigantic besoms turned upside down with the handles drove into the ground, ornamenting each side of the entrance gate ! What could they be ? Closer examination showed that they were two large syringas, so nicely pruned with the shears into obtuse heads as almost to defy the most accurate VOL. XXV. — NO. X. 28 434 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. observer to tell what they were when not in bloom. Again and again we have seen the same barbarous treatment of va- rious beautiful shrubs, all cut to one pattern, the inverted besom shape, like a bush in some pasture browsed on the sides and top by the cattle till it had become the counterpart of these obtuse headed specimens. Now it has always appeared to us, and we think to all lov- ers of fine shrubs, that if there was any one thing more than another which gave to any grounds their real gardenesque or landscape effect, it was the varied forms of trees and shrubs with which they were ornamented, particularly the latter, which, from their smaller size, are taken in at once by the eye and their minuter beauties or defects made apparent. Nature in this, as in everything else, displays her manifold wisdom. She does not only give us immense variety in kind, but a great variety of these very kinds, as many, ofttimes, as twenty or more, as we may witness in the spiraeas, the rhodo- dendron, and other shrubs ; so that even the wild scenery of the Asiatic mountains presents a varied and diverse character which otherwise would be tame and monotonous. The varied forms of shrubs present as great a claim to our attention as their dissimilar flowers. If all were of precisely the same shape, whether the pyramidal, the conical, the up- right, the spreading, or the pendent, we should soon tire of them, and set our wits to work, as the Chinese have, in dwarf- ing their trees, to invent some way to make them differ. But nature, the best master, having supplied us with all her infinite beauty, we strive to mar and disfigure what she has with such lavishness placed in our hands. Look for one moment at a group of shrubs, or single speci- mens scattered over a verdant lawn. Here the Spiraea pruni- folia spreads out with its vase-formed head, often depending the tops of its branches near to the ground ; there the althaea rears its pyramidal form ; a little further, the purple-leaved berberry droops its slender shoots ; and again the Weigelia spreads out its diffuse branches ; near by, the Tartarian honeysuckle forms a grand tufted bush, and the strawberry tree erects its regular spindle form; to the left the fringe tree, with its symmetrical shape and ample foliage, forms a noble OCTOBER. 4S5 object; and to the right the clethra makes a broad dense bush ; and all the other numerous shrubs combine to form a charming landscape in its smaller or larger way. But behold how different the aspect of such a lawn with every one of these shrubs pruned into the same formal besom shape, all shorn of their distinctive character, to gratify that love of primness and uniformity which in uncultivated tastes is the only test of true beauty. Montesquieu, in his essay on taste, has truly said : " Whenever symmetry is useful to the soul and may assist her functions it is agreeable to her ; but whenever it is useless it becomes distasteful, because it takes away variety. Therefore things that we see in succession ought to have variety, for the soul has no difficulty in seeing them." Repton, also, says, in speaking of variety : " To de- light the eye after it has been struck, to fix the attention where it has been caught, to prolong astonishment into ad- miration, are purposes not unworthy the greatest designers." This should be the real aim of the landscape artist, or ama- teur planter. But certainly no such effect could be produced from the inspection of such formal-looking specimens as we have referred to. They might " prolong astonishment" till it ended in disgust, rather than admiration. If the intention is to have the formal Dutch garden, then we have no objections to this style of pruning. It is perfectly in keeping with the symmetrical arrangement and formal precision of such grounds. But we have never seen an at- tempt at this style, where' we have noticed these prim-looking specimens : they have, with few exceptions, been in irregular plantations of trees and shrubs, almost always upon the lawn, or in the small enclosures of our suburban gardens, arranged along curved or winding walks, where they appear the more conspicuously awkward from the irregularity of the place. Were the grounds laid out in squares or geometric lines, and the walks edged with box, then these clipped shrubs would possess a fitness in harmony with the style. We are not quarrelling with the work of the shears, only where such work is out of place. No garden implement is so dangerous in the hands of the inexperienced gardener or young amateur as the shears. 436 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. They are so convenient and so well supply the place of skill and knowledge, that they are constantly in use. Even our fruit trees, especially the peach, are often subjected to this clipping process, and we think we recollect of the practice having once been recommended by some horticultural writer. We certainly think that the shears should never find a place among the implements of the fruit cultivator; indeed, the only purpose for which they should ever be used in orna- mental grounds, unless in the geometric style, is upon hedges and lines of box edging, or in removing decaying or useless herbage from the garden. The knife is all that the skilful gardener will ever attempt to employ in pruning either orna- mental shrubs or trees. But if we find so much fault with these closely-shaved and formal-looking objects, it may be asked what we would advise in their place, that ornamental grounds may preserve a neat appearance, and the shrubs prevented from becoming over- grown and shapeless. Certainly this is a reasonable question, and one which we shall briefly answer. Our remedy to keep any plantation of shrubs in its greatest beauty is the pruning-knife. We have no objections to prune ; on the contrary, it is eminently important that this should not be neglected. But instead of attacking a fine shrub with the shears, the knife should be cautiously used. And here a little knowledge is necessary at the outset. It should first be con- sidered whether the shrub is one which naturally throws up suckers from the root, by which its branches are annually renewed, and whether it flowers on the new or old wood. If the former, then the old wood should be cut clean out, to make room for the new growth ; but if the latter, then only such parts of the old branches should be cut away as will allow of the ripening the wood, by which a more abund- ant bloom is secured ; and both for trees and shrubs which do not sucker, the sole aim of pruning, unless to keep them within a limited space, should be directed to mere thinning out the wood. If the object is to keep them within a small compass, then every year or two most of the old wood should be cut out clean to the ground. The natural form of each should be carefully preserved, and, to do this, the ends OCTOBER. 437 of the shoots should rarely or never be cut off, unless it be some straggling branch ; each shrub renews itself in its natural form when pruned in this manner. By following this system of pruning, the natural and charac- teristic beauty of every shrub will be preserved entire, while, at the same time, they may be kept within reasonable bounds. It is not so easily done as the work of the shears, but, when completed, to the lover of true landscape effect it will afford him the satisfaction that he has not marred the general beauty of his grounds, nor injured the individual beauty of his shrubs. DROUGHT. Y WILSON FL AGG, It is an interesting employment to watch the progress of a drought from its commencement, and to witness the efforts of nature to resist its effects, and to guard the tender plants from injury. By carefully noting all its phenomena, we may arrive at a knowledge of its causes, which are undoubtedly, in one way or another, connected with the clearing of the forests, and we may learn the means by which we may secure our crops from its ravages, by certain appliances or particular modes of tillage. The drought that visited us in the summer and autumn of 1854, on account of its extraordinary severity and duration, afforded a study for the observer of nature, such as but few generations can witness ; and it has led to much speculation concerning the means which may be used to save the country from the frequent recurrence of such an evil. I confess myself a mere superficial observer of these phenom- ena, having entered only the vestibule of the temple of science, from which I endeavor to take as wide a view as pos- sible of nature and her works, humbly seeking every opportu- nity to gain access to the inner temple, from whose windows I may behold a wider prospect, and trace the relations of things which seem now to have no mutual dependence. Many imperfect laws are discovered by correctly noting super- ficial appearances : and if we trace the connections between 438 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. all the phenomena that attend one of these periods of drought, we may acquire many points of information that would be valuable both to science and agriculture. The first symptoms of drought are manifest in the wilting of the grasses, and other rough-leaved and fibrous-rooted plants. Of all perennials, the grasses are the least able to bear continued heat and drought ; hence the almost entire absence of this tribe of the vegetable kingdom in the tropics, and their scarcity in all latitudes below the temperate zone. Almost at the same time with the grasses, the tender annuals begin to wilt and droop in the gardens. Among our common weeds, the Roman wormwood, the goosefoot, the mustard, and the wild radish, feel its effects at an early period. Their leaves become drawn up, they gradually lose their verdure and freshness, and do not increase in growth. Of the an- nuals, those suffer the least which have a succulent leaf and stem, like the portulacca and the sedums. All the rough- leaved species, like the aster and the hibiscus, are among the first plants that suffer and perish. As the drought proceeds, the grass fields in the uplands, where the soil is thin and meagre, become dry and yellow ; and the clover, the whiteweed, and the saxifrage are made conspicuous by their green tufts, which retain their verdure after the grasses are completely seared. At the same time the foliage of young trees loses its lustre and is often partially tinted by premature ripeness and decay. The unripened fruits drop constantly from the trees, and the new foliage that is put forth is pale as if it had suffered from a deficiency of light. The fruits of the season ripen before they have attained their fullness : the whortleberries are withered and dried like pepper, and their foliage is rolled up and crisp. The air contains no moisture, and the hygrometrical lichens upon the rocks and hills are crusty, and break and crumble under our feet, even after sunset. "rtie lowlands begin to suffer after the uplands seem to be past redemption. Rivers have shrunk to rivulets, and wide- spread lakes to drear morasses, encircled by a blackened shore, which is caused by the receding of the waters. Some ponds are completely dried, and the fishes are dead and stifif- OCTOBER. 439 ened in the marl which has been baked in the sun. The aquatic plants lift up their long, blackened stems out of the mud, showing the former height of the water, which has sunken away from them. We look round in vain for the usual wild flowers of the season : they remain blighted and stationary in their growth, and refuse to put forth their blos- soms. The whole landscape wears the aspect of a desert: for even the dews have fled, and the evening air is dry and sultry. The sallow hues of autumn rest upon the brows of sum- mer, like the paleness and wrinkles of age iipon a crew that are perishing with thirst and starvation. We find no wet places in the meadows, and even the brooksides can hardly be traced by their greener vegetation. The forest trees at last begin to suffer .; and on the wooded hill-tops we see here and there a group of trees completely browned or blackened in their foliage, some being dead, and others gone into a state of premature hybernation. The animals suffer no less than the vegetables on which they are dependent. The birds are languid and restless, and do not sing with their accustomed spirit. The squirrels make longer journeys in search of their food, and the hare finds it difficult to obtain sustenance from the dried and tasteless herbs and clover. The chirping in- sects are dumb and motionless for the want of food ; for every tender herb is sere and dry, and multitudes of creatures are hourly perishing with famine. At this time man watches anxiously for the weather-signs, looking often up to heaven for some kind assurances of relief; but there is no truth in any of the usual omens. Tlie tree- toads from the neighboring orchard — the weather's faithful augurs — by an occasional feeble croaking give false promises of change. The western clouds diminish as they rise ; for the fountains of heaven are dried up, and cannot supply them with moisture. The black and threatening clouds that, be- fore sunset, darken the horizon with the signs of approaching rain, are deceitful ; and false is every beautiful signal which is hung out amid the splendors of declining day. There is no truth in any sign that appears in the heavens or on the earth. 440 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. The arrangements of the clouds do not differ essentially from such as appear in ordinary seasons ; but the hue of the heavens is less brilliant, and the tints of yellow and bronze predominate over those of crimson and vermilion. The clouds invariably dissolve soon after sunset, like the steam from boiling water in a clear atmosphere. This dissolution is one of the unfailing accompaniments of drought in all seasons. While the sun is up, there is sufficient evaporation to produce clouds, which continue to increase as long as this evaporation is kept up by the sun's heat ; because the dry region of air above does not absorb them so rapidly as they are produced from below. At the sun's decline, all evapora- tion from the earth and the water ceases. The superfluous moisture of the lower strata of the atmosphere is then pre- cipitated to the earth in the form of dew, and the clouds, which were formed in the daytime, are rapidly absorbed into the dry atmospheric region above them. This process is car- ried on, day after day, until the whole atmosphere has become saturated, after which, rain must soon follow. The first symptoms of this saturation are the continuance of the clouds, without any diminution of their bulk after sunset. The majority of observers have probably witnessed this pro- cess of evaporation of the clouds during a dry spell, in the afternoon — a phenomena which, undoubtedly, contributed to give rise to the old saying, that "all signs fail in a dry time." The clouds darken and gather together as usual before a thunder shower. They rise slowly, and sometimes, though but seldom, a slight rumbling of thunder may be heard at a distance. As they ascend above the horizon, their substance becomes perceptibly thinner and more transparent : the frag- ments that are broken off from their summits dissolve into air, and the clouds have entirely disappeared before they have risen twenty degrees into the heavens. Not unfrequently a cloud continues to ascend, during the prevalence of a strong wind that bears it along so rapidly as to give it no time to dissolve. As we watch its progress with gladness and expec- tation, we soon observe beneatli its dark mass a gleam as bright as gold. The trees and herbs are bent by a brisk and sudden gale : a storm of dust conceals the landscape from OCTOBER. 441 sight: a few heavy drops, amidst the din of the elements, splash on the dusty streets, and all is over. The weather during a period of drought in summer is always even and warm. Any sudden or extreme changes of temperature must always produce rain. Hence fair and serene days are the necessary accompaniments of drought. But vegetation is so greatly seared and deprived of its verdure, and all animated things are so listless and silent, that there is but little pleasure in a prospect, except of the ocean and the heavens. It is then delightful to witness the movements of the water birds, who seem not to share the afflictions of other creatures; and it is refreshing to observe the luxuriance of the marine plants, and to feel the damp and invigorating in- fluence of the sea breezes, that come laden with moisture, and afford a pleasing anticipation of the blessing that must ere long spring from this great reservoir of waters, and ultimate source of all the terrestrial gifts of nature. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. The Concord Grape again. — In our last issue we made some remarks relative to this grape, and should not now refer to it again but to correct an error of some importance which has become general in consequence of the injurious state- ments which we spoke of before. Mr. Geo. Husman, of Hermann, Missouri, an experienced and successful grape-grower, well acquainted with the excel- lences of our grapes, has communicated to the Valley Farmer some account of the Concord, in which he speaks more lav- ishly of its qualities than any other cultivator. His re- marks which follow will be appreciated by all who know what the Concord grape is. The error we wish to correct is this. Mr. Husman says : " While in the East it is considered inferior in quality to the Isabella and Catawba, here it is, as a table grape, much superior to them." Mr. Husman evidently therefore does not know, or has overlooked, what has been said of it. By a reference to the 442 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. description of Messrs. Hovey, when they first offered the Concord for sale, he will read the following in their notice of the variety : — " All good judges who have tasted this variety pronounce it SUPERIOR TO THE ISABELLA in its ripest condition." Having announced this in the first published account of the Concord, which shows that at the "East and North we do know what a really good Concord is," we are only glad of the evidence, that it has proved all that we said it was, and for which TRUE REPORT as we believed, and as it now appears it was, from the opinion of such men as Mr. Peters and Mr. Husman, we were denounced without stint. Even the Pomo- logical Society, at its session in Boston in 1854, passed a vote, that in quality the Concord " was not equal either to the Isa- bella, Catawba, or Diana ;" and Mr. Lines, then of N. Haven, who moved this vote, stated to the meeting that if he had " a place for only two vines, he would rather plant them both with the Isabella, than one with the Concord !" Perhaps Mr. Lines, who resides in Kansas, thinks so still. What we wish to show is, that good judges of the grape around Boston always considered the Concord superior to the Isabella, 'whatever some persons might say, as all know they did, to the contrary. We hope therefore the error will not again be put forth, that at "the East and North we do not know what a good Concord is." It is at home here as well as in Mis- souri : — " In a former number of your valuable journal, I called the attention of your readers to the Norton's Virginia grape. I would now speak a few words in favor of a variety, which is no less deserving of extensive cultivation, although it may have other qualities to recommend it than the former. While Norton's Virginia r-anks high for wine, the Concord is a splen- did table and market grape, being equally free from disease. The following is a description, as it was grown here. It is a remarkable instance what great changes a different soil and different climate will sometimes effect in a fruit. While in the East it is considered inferior in quality to Isabella and Catawba, here it is, as a table grape, much superior to them. It evidently feels itself at home in our climate. OCTOBER. 443 " Bunch, large and heavy, compact shouldered ; berry larger by one third than Catawba, round, black, with a slight bloom; skin somewhat thick; flesh juicy, pulpy, buttery, sweet, and luscious, with an agreeable flavor. Not affected in the least by mildew and rot; very productive. Ripens two weeks before Catawba. Not tried here for wine, but said to make a good red wine. " Vine, a strong and robust grower, very hardy, and will keep its leaves fresh and green till frost, ripening its shoots well to the remotest points, yet not so rampant but it can be well kept in order in the vineyard. It is a fine vine to cover arbors, as it has a very large, healthy leaf, and will never suffer from frost in winter. " The real value of the Concord can only be appreciated when we compare its healthy appearance, and its beautiful, perfect bunches of fruit, with the sickly foliage, and imperfect bunches of the Catawba. While we have lost full one half of our Catawba crop this season, by rot and mildew, the Con- cord lost not a berry, and is a truly glorious sight. Take all its qualities — its splendid large bunch and berry, its good quality, and its early ripening — and we have a market grape which is truly ' hard to beat.' " All fruit-growers, who raise fruit for market, know what a desideratum it is to bring the earliest fruit into market, and that a week's time will often make one-half difference in the price. Here then we have a much nobler looking fruit than Catawba and Isabella — and two weeks earlier. I leave your readers to judge of its value as a market grape, for themselves. I fully concur in the opinion of Mr. Samuel Miller, of Calm- dale, Pa., who says, that at the east and north they do not know what a really good Concord is, and the further it is re- moved south, the better it becomes in quality. Such is the Concord, as I have found it, the last two unfavorable seasons, and my firm belief is, that it will never fail to bring a good crop here. I hope that all your readers who have a few feet of ground to spare for a grape vine will try it." The Taylor Grape. — This is the name of a new candidate for public favor which has been introduced to notice by Mr. S. Miller of Calmdale, Pa., an enthusiastic cultivator of na- 444 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. tive grapes. It was originally brought from the Cumberland mountains between Kentucky and Virginia. Mr. Miller says, in a letter to Mr. J. J. Thomas : "The grape I send you, after passing from the hunter's hand who found it, has since been in the possession of different persons who did not know its real value. But it is now in such hands as will soon dissem- inate it. A gentleman who has kindly distributed it free of charge to a number of persons, and who is interested only in adding to the list of fine grapes, says, ' It never has a blemish or spot, in the same situation with the Catawba and Isabella, when the two latter failed entirely by rot.' In size of bunch and berry it is little less than the Catawba when well grown. This season he says tlie drought has killed everything in that part of Kentucky of the fruit kind, except the grape I send you, which he had to take off before ripe, as the wasps were eating them. Hardier than Catawba, it is a great grower and good bearer. These specimejis were picked on the 15th of August, and come to you after sixteen hundred miles of carriage by land." Great Crop of Strawberries. — Our correspondent, Mr. W. J. Underwood of Belmont, has handed us the following memoranda of a crop of strawberries raised the present year, by Wm. Henry Locke of that town : — " Mr. Locke raised and sold tivo thousand one hundred and fifteen (2115) boxes (quarts) of strawberries from two fifths of an acre. The varieties were Hovey's Seedling and Brigh- ton Pine, in the proportion of four fifths Hovey and one fifth Brighton Pine." So large a crop as this from an old strawberry, Mr. Under- wood thinks worth recording in these days of wonderful products of new varieties. The Oscar Strawberry. — This is the name of a new vari- ety introduced to notice by Mr. C. Turner, nurseryman, Slough, near London. It has been highly spoken of, as will be seen by a notice of a late meeting of the British Pomolog- ical Society. Though, like most of the English varieties, it may not prove of general utility in our climate, amateurs may like to try its qualities, in comparison at least with other foreign sorts. OCTOBER. 445 British Pomological Society — Exhibition of Strawber- ries.— The premiums offered at this meeting were a guinea and half a guinea for the best collections of strawberries, the object being to draw together as many as possible of the varieties in cultivation, that the society might compare them, test them, and decide upon their respective merits and correctness of nomenclature. Only one collection came within their inten- tions, and was exhibited by Mr. Turner, of Slough ; the first premium was unanimously awarded it. The most remarkable variety in the collection was Oscar, a seedling, exhibited for the first time last year, when high encomiums were passed on it ; and this year's examination has fully borne out the former impression. For further particulars, see notes on seedlings below. In the following remarks the varieties are arranged according to size ; and those nearly allied are brought togeth- er. Oscar (Bradley) is after the way of Sir Harry, (Under- hill,) which was also exhibited, very ripe and good flavored. The last-mentioned variety has not found universal favor ; probably, because it is not generally known that the fruit re- quires to be very ripe, and its great firmness permits it to be gathered, packed, and carried long distances without injury. Hooper's seedling is another of this class, very highly col- ored, but inferior to either of the above in flavor. Sir Charles Napier, (Smith,) bright scarlet, pectinate, and very handsome ; very refreshing and juicy; brisk, but not richly flavored. Doubleday's No. 3, or Queen, (Myatt,) is large, coarse, irreg- ular; very pectinate, and deeply furrowed. Color bright cerise-scarlet. Flesh red throughout, brisk, acid, not rich. It is reported to be a great bearer. British Queen (Myatt) needs no description, as it is always good where it succeeds, which is generally on strong soils ; as also on light soils, or in dry localities, is its near relative, Carolina superba, (Kitley,) which is now equally well known. Very nearly allied to British Queen is Doubleday's No. 2, (Myatt,) both in color and flavor, but scarcely equal in the latter. It does not, therefore, appear in what point this variety is desirable. Omar Pacha (Ward) was not distinguishable from Rival Queen, (Tiley,) large, regular, and handsome, pale scarlet, somewhat cristate, with a refreshing flavor, after the way of 446 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. British Queen. Reported to be a good cropper. Surprise, (Mjatt,) pale scarlet, very cristate, very soft, acid, and defi- cient in flavor. Wonderful, (Jeyes,) similar to the above, but longer in form, very corrugate, seeds more numerous, firmer in flesh, juicy, and briskly acid, with a medium flavor. Adair (Elphinstone) is handsome, and highly colored, brisk, but not highly flavored ; reported to be a strong grower and medium cropper. Nimrod (Pince) was so nearly like Adair both in fruit and foliage, that the meeting was unable to dis- tinguish tliem. Admiral Dundas (Myatt) is large, conoid, somewhat cristate, very rugged, and irregular; color pale red ; flesh white, very juicy, brisk, and fine flavored. Prince of Wales, (Ingram) ; this kind, now well known, is a favorite for forcing purposes ; it was exhibited in good condition ; flavor rich and juicy. Elton Pine, (Myatt) ; this was scarcely ripe, but well grown. Filbert Pine, (Myatt) ; this variety deserves to be more known ; pale-colored, very regular in form, medium size, conical, and handsome ; flesh pale, with a pink core, firm and solid, with a rich nutty flavor. Eliza (Rivers) was small, and not equal to its average quality. Incomparable, (Continental). Mr. Turner reported that he had selected this as the best out of a large number of conti- nental varieties ; it was pale in color, regular in form, and distinct, but soft in flesh, and worthless in flavor. Quinque- folia (Myatt) is a medium sized, elongated fruit ; not a good grower, nor first-class in flavor. Black Prince, (Cuthill), not any better in quality than when reported on last year; the only merit this variety possesses is earliness and a slightly perpetual habit, which makes it also a late variety. May Queen, (Nicholson), a small, round, and coarse variety, very acid, utterly worthless. Mr. Jones, gr. to E. Rosher, Esq., of Hamilton Terrace, St. John's Wood, exhibited a remarkably fine dish of British Queen, as evidence of what may be done within London in the way of strawberry growing ; they were large, well colored, and very fine flavored. For seedling strawberries, the premium of one guinea, offered by Mr. Turner, was awarded to a dish of Oscar, exhibited by Mr. Bradley, gr. to W. F. N. Norton, Esq., of Elton Manor, near Nottingham, in very fine condition. This fruit is very large, OCTOBER. 447 ovate, angular, and frequently cristate, but rarely flat, or wedge-shaped; seeds rather large and deeply imbedded; color very dark, becoming deep mulberry when fully matured ; flesh red throughout, sohd, firm, and juicy; flavor very rich and fine when quite ripe, apparently near in affinity to Sir Harry, on which it was considered an improvement. Particular notice was taken of its firm and solid qualities, which augured well for its powers of enduring package and carriage. The above dish afforded good evidence of this, as the fruit itself was firm, plump, and uninjured, although it had travelled from Nottinghamshire ; and in consequence the footstalks and calices were dry and withered. It was reported to be a great cropper, next in earliness to Cuthill's Black Prince, and some days earlier than Keen's seedling. NATURE'S ROTATIONS. BY WILSON FLAGG. It has been observed by foresters, that there is a tendency of one kind of timber to be succeeded by another kind; that pine and fir woods, for example, are prone to be succeeded by hard woods of the deciduous species. Pines are usually followed by oaks and oaks by pines. Perhaps it would be dif- ficult to name any circumstance which would fully account for these facts ; but it is evident, that while the clearing may be full of young seedlings of various kinds, the soil is most favorable to the growth of that sort of timber which is of a different species from that which has just been removed. Thus in the garden, corn will grow well in succession of peas, but any sort of peas cannot be well succeeded by another sort. The new kinds of timber, among the seedlings in the clearing, thrive more vigorously than the others, and grad- ually starve them out. Thus we observe a sort of rotation of crops in the spontaneous growth of the forest. I have observed that the generic character of the timber is sometimes apparently governed by the geological structure of the soil. On the bounds between Salem and Danvers, in this 448 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. State, there is a region of greenstone, adjoining a tract of purer granite. In the former there is a predominance of pines and junipers among the timber, which is of spontaneous growth, while in the latter, maples, oaks, and otlier hardwood- ed trees prevail. Whether this may have been accidental, or whither the growth of the timber was determined by the different character of the soil, it may not be easy to deter- mine. Still we know that in sandy plains, white birch and pitch pine are common, as if they preferred a siliceous soil ; while the oak seldom thrives except in a soil which abounds in all the stamina of fertility, though it may be rocky and shallow. In those tracts near Boston, where the pudding- stone is abundant, there is said to be a greater variety of trees spread over an equal space than in most other places. Emer- son supposes this fact may be attributed to the great variety of chemical ingredients contained in this geological formation, contributing something to the soil for the support of many kinds of vegetation. To return to nature's rotations. Instances are mentioned of spruce and larch succeeded by maple ; though a maple wood, after being cut down, is apt to grow up into coppice, the stumps of the felled trees producing the succeeding growth. The same may be said of the beech and the ash, but not of the birch and the oak. Oak, chestnut, and white pine, are also succeeded by maple ; hemlock by white birch and hard maple ; beech by maple and elm. The most inva- riable rotations are oaks with pines, and the reverse. Still it is doubtful whether these results are caused by any thing more than the accidental existence of a few trees of a certain species mingled with the predominating timber, and scattering their seeds in the wood. If a forest of any kind have an occasional sprinkling of one other kind of tree ; if an oak wood, for example, contains maples distributed pretty equally, though few and far between,* over its whole extent, these maples are sufficient to scatter their seed, and thus prepare the way for a succession of maples. When the oak timber is removed the maple seedlings will be found of all sizes min- gled with the young oaks, and, according to the principle of rotation, will grow more vigorously than the latter, and eventually supplant them. OCTOBER. 449 But maples are not so likely to succeed white pines, on account of the difficulty of obtaining an insertion of their seeds into the soil, underneath the dense carpet of pine foliage. Their seeds are very light and volatile, and produce very minute seedlings, which could hardly emerge from beneath this bed of dry leaves. They could neither be easily planted, nor could they easily emerge from their bed if tliey should happen to be planted. Hence, perhaps, we may account for the predominance of oaks in a wood that has succeeded a pine forest. A pine wood is commonly inhabited by a few oaks. These scatter their acorns, «vhich, being once planted, produce young plants of sufficient strength and size to push up through the matted pine leaves. They are nursed and cherished under the shade and protection of the timber, and stand ready to fill its place as soon as it is cut down by the woodman. Acorns, chestnuts, and beech nuts, are planted in great quantities by squirrels. They make some amends in this way for the large portion which they consume ; for though they plant them for their own future use, they do not find all their hoards, and many trees are thereby securely planted, and come up under more favorable circumstances than if they had depended upon accident for their insertion into the earth. It is evident, therefore, that the seeds of trees which are de- voured by squirrels are more likely to get well planted under a matting of pine foliage, than the light seeds of the maple or the elm. This explanation may account for oaks succeeding pines more frequently than other timber; but it does not account for the succession of pines after oaks. This must undoubtedly be explained, by supposing a bed of soil, formed by the continued decay of oak leaves, to be peculiarly conge- nial to tlie growth of pines. NEW MODE OF ESPALIER TRAINING. FROM THE REVUE HORTICOLB. We have in our late volumes given two new modes of training the pear, recommended by French cultivators. We VOL. XXV. — NO. X. 29 450 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. have now to offer a new plan of espalier training, which seems to offer great advantages over the old system, enabling the cultivator to attain as great results in five years as he now does by the former in sixteen or eighteen. Besides, its sim- plicity is so great that the merest novice cannot fail to prac- tice it successfully, while the old plan requires the greatest skill in its execution. In fact, it is nothing more than setting out a row of trees eighteen inches apart, training them up to one single stem and keeping all the laterals pruned in close, by which means the trees become covered with fruit buds from top to bottom. This is all done in three or four years, and the espalier completely covered. We commend the mode to our amateur cultivators, and especially to those who have small gardens and but little time to attend to their trees, as a ready means of securing large and fine fruit with the least trouble : — We have ah-eady published in another journal, (Journal d' Agriculture practique,') an article which we reproduce here, completing it by indicating the most economical trellis for espalier trees, adapted to the form of training in oblique lines, (ew cordon oblique,') excepting the peach, for which we have shown, in a preceding page, the trellis which is most preferred. The construction of railroads in France exercises the hap- piest influence upon the production of dessert fruit; they open at once a prompt and easy mode of reaching the great markets of consumption from remote distances. This kind of cultivation, limited at present to the vicinity of large cities, is extending more and more, and will soon constitute for our country a new branch of industry, the products of which will find their way to all the markets of Northern Eu- rope. Never have so many fruit trees been planted, and never have so many persons been engaged in their ameliora- tion and culture. Practical men and amateurs rival in zeal in this regard, and we doubt not this art will soon attain a high degree of perfection if the progress continues the same as it has for some time. We should, however, notice here one of the difiiculties at- OCTOBER. 451 tending a great number of young adepts in fruit culture ; it is the neglect of the economical view of this interesting ques- tion. They try to adopt new methods of training trees, with- out taking into account the labor and trouble. It is thus only necessary to show again, that, with time and intelligence, the branches of trees can be trained in the most varied and capricious forms. They do not think enough of those condi- tions which, above all others, are necessary to be known, that the branches of fruit trees should have such a form as can be made in the shortest time, with the least possible care, with- out loss of space, and preserving the trees in their highest degree of fertility : or, in other words, that we can take from a given surface, devoted to the culture of fruits, the greatest profit. We have already indicated several modes of training whicli will give this result. We now propose a new form, which appears to attain this end more completely still. We know that the forms most generally employed for es- palier pear trees are such that it is necessary, for a wall of eight feet in height, to wait sixteen or eighteen years be- fore the trees entirely cover the surface which is intended for each tree, that is, of fifty or sixty square feet. It is too long to wait for the maximum product of the trees, for during this time the interest upon the cost of the land and the con- struction of the wall, as well as the expense of keeping the same in order, is so great that the crop affords a very in- sufficient remuneration. We have described in the third edition of our Traite df Ar- boriculture, under the name of " Cordon oblique double," a mode of training, which, adopted against a wall of at least eight feet high, answers completely for espaliers of pears, apples, plums, cherries, and apricots, in the short space of six or seven years. That which we now advise, (fig. 48,) and which is only to be applied to these kinds, is called the Cordon oblique simple, and was first adopted by us for the pear in 1843 ; it gives a still more prompt result, since we can attain the same object at the end of the third or fourth year. The following is the mode of planting an espalier for pears : — Choose trees one year from the graft, healthy and vigorous, worked upon the quince for strong-growing varieties, and 452 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. upon the pear for the others. Plant them along the wall, at a distance from each other of about eighteen inches only. Incline them in planting at an angle of 60°, and cut off one third of the whole length of the stem to favor the development of the terminal bud, and pinch off, during summer, all the lateral shoots, in order to transform them into fruit spurs. The following year, at the winter pruning, cut off a third of the whole length of the new growth, and give the same atten- tion to the lateral branches as before, in order to make fruit buds. During summer the new shoots should be subjected to the same operations as the preceding. Repeat them each year, until the time when the stem has reached two thirds of OCTOBER. 453 the space which separates it from the top of the wall ; then incline the stem at an angle of 45° at the winter pruning, and continue its length till it reaches the top. This object will be attained towards the end of the fourth year, and the espalier will bo completed. It will be necessary that the first and last tree should be trained in the form in our figure, so that no vacant space will be left upon the espalier. We can thus obtain by this new mode of training, towards the fifth year, the greatest product, which with the old style we could not do until the sixteenth or eighteenth year. It is proper further to notice the simplicity of this form of train- ing, which renders its execution easy even for amateurs, or gardeners who have but little experience, and also the con- venience of having a great number of different varieties in a small space ; in short, the promptitude with which we can fill the place made vacant by the accidental death of a tree. It may be feared, it is true, that the space left between each tree, (eighteen inches,) may be insufficient for the proper de- velopment of the roots ; but this objection falls of itself, if we think of the little extension of the stem, and the space which the roots have to spread before the wall. If one fears, to the contrary, that the stem is too much confined and en- dangers the formation of flower buds by an excess of vigor, it is sufficient to examine the fertility of the numerous es- paliers of peaches, trained in our form of the cordon oblique simple, to dispel these fears. One single objection : it is this, that we can only conveniently establish this mode of train- ing against an espalier nine feet high, lower walls not per- mitting the stems to acquire a sufficient length, and their excess of vigor injures them at the expense of tlie fruit. Let us say in closing, that the mode of training in oblique lines, planting the trees eighteen inches apart, can be ap- plied with the same advantage to apples, plums, cherries, and apricots, as espaliers, provided that the supports of the last may be at least eight feet high. The trellis adopted for this mode is made by nailing three horizontal bands against strong posts, one at the top, one at the bottom and one in the middle ; upon these are nailed the trellises, which are eighteen inches apart, and fastened at an 454 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. • angle of 45° : each tree is trained to a single trellis to which it is tied. REPORT ON STRAWBERRIES, BY THE CINCINNATI HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. A SPECIAL committee was appointed sometime since by the Cincinnati Horticultural Society to report upon Strawberries, and at the meeting July 2d, F. G. Gary, Esq., chairman, read the Report. Although it contains but little that is new, yet, as indicating the condition of strawberry culture in and around Cincinnati, where so much has been said in regard to this fruit, we think some extracts from it will interest our readers. The remarks of the committee fully confirm our statement, and that of our correspondent, Mr. Underwood, that a great portion of the strawberries cultivated for the Hovey Seedling, in the "West, are not the true kind, one gentleman having been eleven years in getting it pure. The Report was made by F. G. Cary, Wm. Mears, and B. F. Sanford, and appears in the Cincinnatus. After dis- cussing the question of staminate and pistillate plants, in which they fully discuss their true character, as now gen- erally understood, they conclude as follows : — Hence, we say in the cultivation of the strawberry, that the pistillate or female plant will not produce fruit of itself alone, and that most staminates are, more or less, defective in pistil, so as to be, to a great extent, l)arren, and that the runners, or off-shoots, never vary or change their character, so as from sterile, to become productive, no more than the continuous branches of the same apple or pear tree, thus making in- creased attention to this matter necessary in the cultivation of the strawberry. And we venture the assertion, that the greatest difficulty in practice has been introduced by the intervention of staminates, for the purpose of fertilization, which, by their greater strength, soon usurp the mastery over the pistillate or bearing plants. In common parlance, the beds run out. And for the novice to keep his beds thus OCTOBER. 455 arranged and properly adjusted, as to male and female, is next to impossible, even when he has the advantage of a right start, which is rarely the case. And here our experience suggests, in order to avoid this almost inevitable tendency to general barrenness, that, at least, such as will not take the time and labor necessary to keep their plants in proper bearing condition, and would still retain the better pistillate varieties, should not introduce staminates at all, but depend for fertilization upon good strong hermaphrodite plants, which bear a good crop of themselves, and still possess the fertilizing property for the pure pistillates. The hermaphrodites now in cultivation, producing by themselves good crops, are becoming numerous. Among those we have tried are the Longworth Prolific, Hooker, Wilson's Albany and Jenny Lind, and perhaps one or two others. We are aware that our great strawberry growers still cling to the pistillates as the most profitable, because, as they say, the most productive, introducing the Hudson staminate, and sterile or some other, as a fertilizer. Your committee are prepared to recommend to the inexperienced a different course, and say, plant hermaphrodite alone, or pistillates with them. You can then the better guard against the prevalence of sterile plants, and, what is quite common, the sale of worthless and impure mixtures. A fact in point here, in relation to the Longworth and McAvoy, two of the best strawberries, in some respects, that have ever been introduced, and which, when cultivated to- gether by themselves — the one a hermaphrodite and the other a pistillate, the latter, too, difficult of impregnation — have rarely ever failed to yield good crops. It lias come to the knowledge of the committee, tliat many persons who have been purchasing and setting plants since their first introduc- tion, have never yet succeeded, for the simple reason that they have not the genuine plants, and many others have not secured remunerative crops, because, if they have them at all, they have them in cultivation with spurious and worth- less mixtures that should be discarded. Members of this Society have often testified to this, and many more, doubt- 456 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. less, who never have been here to testify, could make the same statement. One member of your committee has been eleven years in the work, and has but just succeeded in get- ting them entirely pure. In regard to the Hovey pistillate, and one much if not most approved still among our most successful cultivators — introduced about a quarter of a cen- tury since — he has been planting, at different times, for eighteen years, and still without success. On comparing the fruit produced the past season, upon plants recently set as the good and true of this variety, with what was brought before our Society, he was constrained to conclude that he had been again deceived ; and to-day he is in pursuit of the genuine Hovey. For six years he bought and sold vile mixtures, with perhaps a few genuine plants of the Longworth, not thinking that he had been imposed upon, or was imposing upon others ; all originating from the practice of cultivating sterile stam- inate plants merely for the purpose, real or supposed, of bet- ter fertilization and more abundant crops. There are but three pistillates of those raised in this vicinity we would retain, were we to recommend the continuance of the cultivation of those distinctively such — the McAvoy, Old Hudson, and Hovey, well attested varieties, and all capable of full fertili- zation by Longworth's Prolific and McAvoy, the most diffi- cult— producing, thus, large crops of most delicious fruit. Let it not be said longer, that such course is of doubtful expediency. A bed of Longworth and McAvoy thus ar- ranged— four feet wide by seventy-five long, containing three rows of plants, a foot apart in the row, and permitted to run together, without extra culture — yielded thirty-six quarts at the first picking, and a good return from the repeated after- gatherings. We would here state that the kinds most successfully cul- tivated in the neighborhood of Cincinnati, are the Hovey, Hudson, McAvoy, Longworth, and Iowa, sometimes called the Washington. There have been a number of new kinds which promise well, among which may be named the Hooker, Wilson's Albany and Jenny Lind. The Peabody, about which so much has been said, is a failure in this locality. We hear a better account of it in a different climate and soil. OCTOBER. 457 There have been brought before this Society, also, numerous promising seedhngs, by Mr. Parnell, of College Hill, F. G. Gary, and Mr. Peticolas, and perhaps some others. Messrs. Parnell and Gary's experiments have been directed to the growing of crosses with the Longworth and McAvoy. So, in this line, the Society are in the way of experiment and prog- ress. One of the most if not the most profitable strawberries, on account of its hardiness, productiveness and early maturity, is the Iowa or Washington. Your committee have in vain attempted to arrive at any accurate and reliable information, however desirable, in rela- tion to the facts and figures of the strawberries sold in our market, of the relative proportions of the different varieties, and the prices which they have relatively commanded ; but according to their best judgment, have arranged them in their order as follows : Iowa surpasses the rest in early ripening, if not in quantity sold, and in the average price received. Hovey perhaps comes in second, Hudson and McAvoy next ; the latter, it is generally admitted, is gradually gaining ground. Of the Longworth, but few reach our market ; by some it is under- rated, though a portion of the committee are still strong in the belief that it is unsurpassed in its productive qualities, and as an impregnator is withouit a rival ; and that the rea- son for its tardy introduction, its start was a bad one, and that now it is but little known. It is thought by some, Wilson's Albany will yet be its successful rival, if not surpass it. This is erroneously put down as a pistillate in Elliott's Fruit Book. Both of these plants will thrive well under glass, and will mature perfect fruit without insects or aerial distribution of their pollen — certainly a good test of their productive func- tions. A word here as to culture. First, we say, trench or sub- soil your ground two spades deep, mingling the surface with the subsoil, introducing more or less leaf-mold, or well-rotted manure, according to the demands of your soil, giving to it nothing more than medium richness. Strawberries require a deep tilth, not more for a range of root and healthy aliment, than for moisture, which is in great requisition, upon ripen- 458 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. ing its fruit, while often there is at that time a deficiency in the supply. This can not be better supplied than by the reservoir in suspension, in a deep soil, furnished as demanded by capillary attraction. If practicable, a south-eastern ex- posure is preferable, though by no means necessary to suc- cess, except for early ripening. Plant in rows from two to three feet one way, setting them from a foot to eighteen inches apart in the row. Some are tenacious about the keep- ing off the runners, which no doubt has a tendency to pro- mote the size and add to the perfection of the fruit, but we say let them run together, renewing your beds every third year, simply because the other mode will not pay. Beds kept in proper order will bear much longer without the labor and expense of renewing the runners. It is always well in the setting of a bed to select young and thrifty plants. You may arrange your plantations in beds of one, two, three or four rows each, which method has its advantages in gathering and for garden culture ; but in a large plantation, set uniformly as before stated. Great importance is to be attached to keeping the plants clean of weeds and grass, more especially the first season. Plants may be set successfully at any time, if done witli care ; early in the fall or in the spring is the preferable time. Protection during winter is another important point; otherwise, the better they are cultivated, the more liable are they to be thrown out by the frost. To prevent this, and to give an additional vigor to the young crown in spring, it is well to spread your beds late in the fall with a top-dressing, more or less generous, as desirable, with leaf or wood mold or well rotted manure, free from grass or other seeds, covering them still with leaves or straw, which, if very loose, still needs something, as cornstalks or light spray, to hold them on for a time, as the wind is liable to sweep them bare. In conclusion, we would say, it is a matter of surprise that there is not a more general attention given to the cultivation of the small fruits, and especially this most excellent and healthful kind — the strawberry. Among our farmers, inat- tention and destitution in regard to this fruit, is almost uni- versal. At present, its culture is confined to but compara- OCTOBER. 459 tively few individuals, who make it their business to supply the city markets ; and here, if anywhere, most of our farmers get their scanty bait. They look upon those who succeed, after their repeated failures, as a kind of superior order of intelligences, and possessing a key to unlock nature which they have failed to secure ; and as for this idea of male and female, it is all a mystery, or humbug — most believing the latter — while they garner not a sheaf, gather not an ear of corn, or a bushel of apples, without the intervention of the very same principle, the development of the same law, but one which, fortunately for them, it is not necessary to know. SUBURBAN VISITS. Wellesley, the Residence of H. H. Hunnewell, Esq. — This beautiful place, which we gave a complete description of in a previous volume, (XXI. p. 378,) has been greatly im- proved since our last visit in 1857. We recently spent an hour or two in looking through the grounds. This was in the early part of August, just in the driest part of the season, yet we found it looking in fine order, the lawn quite green, and the trees in the most healthy and thriving condition. Mr. Hunnewell has recently extended the terrace which bounded his grounds on one side of the lake, and made a most interesting feature by adding an Italian garden. Ex- cavating the steep bank he has filled up a large space, extend- ing more than three hundred feet in length, and made five terraces five feet broad on the top. The garden is reached by descending a long flight of broad steps ; and the upper terrace has a parapet, upon which, at regular intervals, are placed fine specimens of yuccas, yews, &c., in pots. The garden has but just been completed, and very little planting done, so that it does not now show what it will be in a few years. The architectural effect of the whole is very fine, and forming as it does an episode in the grounds, — not being seen until immediately upon it — is a highly artistic and pleasing addition to Mr. Hunnewell's place. We were de- 460 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. lighted to find the yuccas and agaves placed in so conspicuous a position, and we trust all who see them will not forget their ornamental effect. They are sucli truly fine additions to all gardens near and around a house of any architectural pretensions that we have been surprised they have not been more generally introduced. The entrance to the Italian gar- den, through the fine clipped specimens of yews, white pines, hemlocks, cedars, &c., is much grander than two years ago, when the trees had not attained their present size. Besides this great feature Mr. Hunnewell has made few changes in his grounds, excepting the alteration of the curve of one of the walks, which turned too abruptly, and narrowed one portion of the lawn. In the plantations of trees, how- ever, more particularly conifers and evergreen shrubs, Mr. Hunnewell has made great additions, and a few years' growth will show great changes in the landscape effect of those parts of ground devoted to them. We have before remarked, that there could not be found a better spot, both as regards soil and situation, for such trees and shrubs, and their growth shows how well they flourish Avhen they are suited in these respects. The success which has attended Mr. Hunnewell's experiment has been so great that he has prepared additional portions of the ground to be planted with the overgrowing stock, and new additions of choice varieties. A.S the coniferous trees are the distinguishing feature of the place we looked through them carefully, and made the following notes for the benefit of amateurs who are about adding them to their grounds : — Pinus pinsapo proves quite hardy, the specimens two years planted, and three feet high ; P. ponderosa, perfectly hardy, three feet ; A^bies Smithidwa, five feet, not quite hardy, the ends of the branches slightly hurt ; variegated cedar, quite hardy, four feet. The noble Picea Nordmanzdwft, not large, but perfectly hardy, after three years planting, showing that this finest of the species can be set down as safe in the vicinity of Boston : it is yet extremely rare. Pinus Lambertidwa, three years planted, and three feet high, perfectly hardy. P. Beardsleyt, a new Northwest species, quite hardy. The grand A'hies nobilis, perfectly safe, after four years planting, and now two feet OCTOBER. 461 high ; this will indeed be a treasure to every garden, being, as its name indicates, one of the most noble of the fir tribe. The graceful and rare Thujopsis borealis stood out the last severe winter, unhurt, a perfect test of its hardy character, and it may be safely added to our hardy trees, the greatest acquisition that has yet been made. Taxus elegantissima, quite hardy. Cephalotaxus Fortum, two years out, also har- dy, and a fine tree. Juniperus Sabina, two feet, hardy. Among the new kinds planted this year are Cupressus Law- sonidna, A^bies Ksempferi or Golden Pine, Taxus Dovastoni, Cunninghamia sinensis, and Taxodium pendulum. The Washington^ gigantea was slightly injured, but still we hope to see it prove hardy. Cedrus Deoddra does not get on so well as we anticipated ; some of the specimens are scarcely injured, while others have lost part of their shoots. It does not appear to suffer so much from cold as the sun, and when the right situation is found it may do. For general planting it cannot be considered a safe tree. We forgot to mention that the fine Irish and gold and silver yews, of which the specimens of the latter are fine, being grafted three to four feet high, and kept in pots to ornament the Italian gar- den, will all be housed in the winter, and returned to their places in the spring. Besides the conifers we have mentioned, Mr. Hunnewell has added a quantity of 'ornamental trees and shrubs of great beauty ; the specimens are quite small, but among them we noticed Negundo crispa, Tilia argentea, Negundo fraxini- folium variegata. Variegated and Gold-striped Spanish Chest- nuts, Silver-leaved Beech, Dwarf Mountain Ash, Violet-wood- ed Lime, &c. Rhododendrons, kalmias, and azaleas have been extensively planted, vacant places having been filled with groups of them intermixed. The older specimens have shown how well they like their situation by their vigorous growth and deep green foliage ; indeed, when one sees the mine of old bog soil which Mr. Hunnewell has at command, and with which he covers the ground two or three inches deep, they cannot otherwise than thrive. They will soon form dense masses of evergreen foliage, and a magnificent array of blossoms. We hope, another year, to have from Mr. Harris, 462 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTUEE. the gardener, a list of all the kinds which have proved en- tirely hardy, as it will form a good guide in the selection of plants. There is a great difference in this respect, for while some are perfectly hardy, others are so much injured in their foliage as to greatly disfigure them as well as destroy their bloom. Nothing but actual experience will give the desired information, the English climate not being severe enough to distinguish that slight difference which to the Amer- ican planter is all-important. After passing through the grounds, which were in the most complete order, we came upon the flower garden near the lawn front. Here a bed of Yariegated-leaved geraniums, consist- ing of Flower of the Day and Brilliant, was one mass of bloom. Another large bed was planted with Canna Warsce- wizii, surrounded with two rows of Calla ethiopica, which were displaying their showy white flowers, a pleasing contrast to the dark foliage and scarlet blossoms of the Canna. Near by, in a bed, the Tritoma uvaria was throwing up its spikes of brilliant flowers, and beds of verbenas and roses com- pleted the group. The fruit garden and kitchen garden were in fine order. Mr. Harris informed us he gathered ninety Stanwick nec- tarines from the original tree. The grapery was producing a large crop of as fine grapes as we ever saw, the Cannon Hall having immense clusters of large berries, and as thickly set as the Black Hamburgh, with the flowers of which Mr. Harris fertilized the other. The whole of this department is well managed by Mr. Hunnewell's excellent gardener. Residence of Capt. W. R. Austin, Dorchester. — Capt. Austin is well known as one of the most successful pear cul- tivators around Boston, his crop of fruit having been quite as large, if not larger, than that of any other grower upon the same quantity of ground. It is now nine years since we gave some account of Capt. Austin's garden, (Yol. XYI,) and we were surprised at the fine appearance of his fruit trees, which now cover a large portion of his grounds, comprising two or more acres. They have grown very regularly and are all in fine health, the whole being upon the quince, and now the OCTOBER. 463 large part of them from thirteen to fifteen years old. They were generally bearing a fine crop, particularly the Duchess, which appears well adapted to the soil and location. We were especially pleased with Capt. Austin's style of pruning, upon what he terms the " wine glass" pattern, which is a style of his own, approaching somewhat the French mode of pruning " en vase." It is much simpler to manage than the pyramid, requiring less labor and skill, and at the same time seems to offer a rather better protection from wind than the pyramid. As we fancy the Captain's mode of training, we hope at another time to give an engraving, representing one of his trees, with the system of practice. In a few words we may now briefly notice this style. When the young tree of two years old is planted, the cen- tre shoot is cut out, and the side shoots are pruned in so as to obtain, from the four or five laterals, as many as eight or ten branches ; these are preserved entire, every side shoot upon each being cut in to one or two eyes as they make their ap- pearance ; these main shoots are slightly cut in at the winter- pruning and encouraged in making a new growth each year, pinching off at all times every side shoot, by which means they are transformed into fruit spurs ; as the shoots increase in length they diverge at the top until they assume quite a wine glass or vase shape. When of a maximum height, say ten feet, they are stopped, and are not allowed further exten- sion. By this process these main shoots become studded with fruit spurs from top to bottom, of which the Duchess afforded grand examples, being covered with splendid large pears. The advantages of this style, besides ease of management, are a more evenly balanced tree, which the wind does not affect near so much as pyramids, and the sap is not directed to the top, but is distributed throughout these main branches equal- ly ; hence the trees are full of fruit from the base to the top, and at the same time it is more evenly sized. Another important thing is that there are no lower branches to become crowded and die off for want of a good circulation of air, as is too common with pyramidal trees. The principal advan- tage, however, appears to be in the ease with which they may be managed by those who have not the skill to prune pyra- 464 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mids, which require a good deal of care to keep them in sym- metrical sliape, and at the same time productive and healthy. Great judgment and considerable skill are required to know when to prune, but in Capt. Austin's style all that is import- ant is to extend the main shoots, about eight or ten in num- ber, and no more, and cut off every side shoot, (by summer pruning principally,) to one or two eyes. We commend this mode of training to the attention of amateur cultivators. The principal varieties of pears Capt. Austin cultivates are, Duchess, Louise Bonne of Jersey, Beurr^ d'Anjou, Bartlett, Easter Beurre, Passe Colmar, and Le Cure, with a few mis- cellaneous sorts. The Beurr^ Diel has cracked so badly in his light soil he has had to regraft the trees, upon some of which he has tried the Lawrence. These are looking well but are not yet in bearing. We made our visit in company with Mr. C. Downing and. Wm. Reid of Elizabeth town, N. J., who were highly pleased with the mode of training, the clean and healthy appearance of tlie trees, their grand crop, and, in fact, the whole man- agement of Capt. Austin's grounds. §oeraI S^atices. Eugene Appert Rose. — Eugene Appert (to leave off metaphor) is a very beautiful new rose, raised by M. Victor Trouillard, and having much of the gorgeous coloring which enriches the flower of that name. To those who saw the three blooms of Victor Trouillard, in the collection of Mr. Cant, of Colchester, at the National Rose Show, this resemblance will sound as no mean compliment : but we may, I think, indulge in still higher eulogy, and assert that, both in arrangement of its petals, in the beauty of its foliage, and the robust healthfulness of its vigorous growth, the rose Eugene Appert is superior to Victor Trouillard. This combination of strength and beauty is to be especially commended at a time when so many of our new roses are sadly defective in constitution — like dolls, beautiful in face, but with nothing to support their bodies of bran but those thin, dis- torted, rickety legs, which cannot be induced to stand at any price. But Eugene Appert is hale as handsome, not glowing with that hectic flush which foretells a rapid decline, but with the enduring bloom of perfect health— health, which keeps the flowers beautiful for some days after they have been severed from the tree, and this makes the rose especially valuable to those who grow for exhibition. — [Gard. Chron.) OCTOBER. 465 Prices of FRtiT in Covent Gahden Market. — As prices of fruit, not less than of other goods, convey a pretty accurate idea of the abundance or scarcity of the supply, we have prepared the following tabular statement, by which the prices obtained in Covent Garden market, in the first week in August, this season, may be compared with those of the same week in the years indicated, beginning with 1841 : — Apples, per doz., - - . " per half sieve, - Pears, per doz , - . - " per half sieve, Plums, per punnet, - - . " per half sieve, Cherries, (Morello,) per lb.. Currants, Black, per half sieve, " Red, " " " " White, " " " Gooseberries, per half sieve. Raspberries, per lb.. Apricots, per doz., - - - From the above it will be seen, that with few exceptions, prices range higher than those of any of the years with which they are compared, and that they agree best with those of 1845, the spring of which was very severe. The inference, therefore, is clear, even if we had no diata to go by, that fruit this season is scarce. That is, however, the case to a greater extent than the above return indicates ; for, in addition to that of home growth, we have weekly importations from Portugal, Spain, and France, all of which tend to keep down prices. Apples come from Lisbon, large and fine, and, generally, higher colored than fruit of English growth. Greengage plums are, also, largely supplied from France, and we have some foreign pears, but the latter are not good. The varieties in season now are Jargonelles, Beurr6 d'Amanlis, and Williams's Bon Chretien ; and of apples, Kerry Pippin, Early Julian, Quar- renden, and Nonesuch. The famous Newton Pippin, which was wont to make its appearance in the market soon after this time, now seldom arrives until about Christmas. Earlier than that there is little demand for it. We may add, that an ordinary sieve contains about five pecks, and a cur- rant sieve two and a half pecks. A punnet is a round flat basket, that holds from twelve to eighteen good-sized plums. — ( Gard. Chron.) 1841. 1845. 1850. 1855. 1859. 35. Od. , 2s.0d. 2s.0d. 3s.0d. 3*. Od. 6 0 7 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 4 0 6 0 3 0 4 0 6 0 6 0 10 0 8 0 7 0 12 0 3 0 3 6 2 0 1 6 2 6 5 0 5 0 4 0 3 6 8 0 4 0 5 0 3 0 2 0 4 0 6 0 7 0 6 0 6 0 7 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 6 0 4 0 5 0 5 0 5 0 6 0 5 0 5 0 3 0 4 0 5 0 0 4 0 6 0 4 0 3 0 9 3 0 2 6 2 6 3 0 4 a Blue Hydrangeas. — In one of the houses in the Horticultural Society's Garden are a number of Hydrangeas in full bloom ; part of these are of a fine pink, part of them of a pure blue, all equally healthy. The gardener who has charge of them says that he mixed some old nails and iroa filings with the earth from which the blue flowers are produced. I have taken some of the pure pink flowers and applied to them a strong solution of sul- VOL. XXV. — NO. X. 30 466 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. phate of iron (with a little nitric acid to peroxidise the iron) and find that this turns them blue, as you will see by the enclosed specimens. Hence there seems to be no doubt that the blue color may be produced by iron. 1 placed a cut bunch of pink blossoms with the stem in a weak solution of sulphate of iron, renewing the absorbing surface from time to time by slicing a piece off, but in the course of two days no alteration of color has taken place ; however, when the pedicils are crushed they assume a blue tint.) Some of the flowers, infused with boiling water, had their pink color discharged, and on adding sulphate of iron, and allowing them to stand for some hours, they became colored of a pale blue tint, darkest near the centre. The flowers, generally, when treated externally with the iron solution, do not appear to become colored, unless the cellular tissue is crushed or other- wise injured. These facts seem to settle the vexed question of the pro- duction of the blue Hydrangeas ; it remains for the chemist to explain them. — {Gard. Chron.) A Belgian's Notion of a Cottage Garden. — We reproduce from the Journal d'Horticulture Practique the following, which serves to show the difference between our own notions of arrangement and those of some of our Continental friends : — " It does not matter whether your piece of ground be square, oval, or round ; plant in the centre a strong plant of Pyracantha. Its handsome red berries, standing out against the white snow in winter, will supply the place of flowers in the early part of the year. In May surround your Pyracantha with a row of Phlomis Leonurus, which, towards the end of the year, blooms as freely as its flowers are handsome. Canna indica, with its different varieties, should form your third row ; for their beautiful foliage and magnificent flowers are charming to look at. Follow up these plants with a collection of red Geraniums, zouale, roseum, and album, and they will afford you an abundance of flowers dur- ing many months of the year. A row of Dielytra spectabilis, a charming Fumaria, should be placed next to the Geraniums, for the lovely clusters of pink flowers contrast well with the delicate glaucus green of its leaves. It is impossible to give an idea of the beauty of a large specimen of this plant. A good many small patches of Deutzia gracilis should be arranged round the clusters of Dielytra. Corydalis formosa produces its flowers in May and June, and its delicate foliage is seen to advantage against the deeper green of the other plants. In January and February the amateur will be satisfied with a row of Hellebores, (Christmas Roses.) Finally, all round this flower bed, full as it is, plant a circle of Hepaticas, Snowdrops, and Primroses. In this manner you will have, from the 1st of January to the 31st of December, without much expense, and with very little labor, a spot of ground always covered with flowers. The principal part in jour flower bed will be played by Phlomis Leonu- rus, a superb labiate, whose rich golden flowers, arranged in whorls, will OCTOBER. 467 furnish you with beautiful blossoms for the autumn. The flower spikes of this plant grow from Q4 to 30 inches high. In November remove it, with balls of earth round its roots, into a greenhouse, a sitting-room, or even into a cellar where vegetables are kept, provided it is protected from damp and from a very low temperature. This plant, considering the very little care it requires, deserves to be much more generally cultivated. It should be well cut in, in the month of May, before being planted in the open border. It may be propagated by cuttings, or easily raised from seeds, which may be procured cheaply enough in the south of France. "I admired," says Mr. Michael Keneus, "the Phlomis Leonurus for the first time in October, 1857, at the chateau of Walbourg (in Dutch Lim- burg), the property of the Baroness de Bredusel d'Eisenbach; and I was not a little surprised at the extraordinary effect produced by this plant. I must however add, that the wonderful effect was quite accidental, and not owing to its having been grown according to rule ; for instead of being planted in open ground, it was placed in little flower pots, through the hole in which the strong roots had forced their way, so as to derive abundant nourishment from the soil beneath, and thus produced the magnificent veg- etation I was so much struck with. — [Gard Gard.) Gossip of tj)c Pontlj. Experience in Strawberry Cultdre. — Mr. D. Pierson presented the Cincinnati Horticultural Society at a late meeting (July 2, 1859,) an in- teresting and important statement with regard to his own practical expe- rience with a variety of strawberries. Two years ago, he had planted on borders one hundred feet in length, Longworth's Prolific and McAvoy's Superior on either side of a small path or walk. He planted at the same time six or seven other varieties, among them the Washington or Iowa, Hovey's Seedling, Jenny Lind, and other good kinds, twenty-five to fifty plants of each, distributed over the beds. They bore abundantly this year — he having gathered about five bushels of fruit from them — the McAvoys — after allowing them to remain five days while they were apparently ripe. They were very large and fine-flavored berries, and the first day he picked a bushel of fruit from the borders, but at the end of rather less than ten days they were very nearly all gone, and given up. From the beds of the other varieties, he continued to obtain an abundance for four weeks. The Washington began to bear the first, and held out the longest. The Hovey retained nearly its large size to the last of its ripening. The ground was not trenched for any of them. They were all treated very much alike as to the preparation of the soil. But the Longworth and McAvoy were drained by the path, and, if anything, were rather the best treated as to culture. He had covered them all somewhat in the fall. The gist of the whole matter, in the experiment with Mr. Pierson, and concurred in by the 468 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. members, consists in the knowledge obtained, that cultivators must be far from depending for a length of time for a yield of fruit on one or two varieties only, as the Long worth and McAvoy. — [Cincinnatus.) Hovet's Seedling Strawberry. — M. B. Bateham, of Columbus, O., contributes the following information to the Ohio Cultivator, which we con- sider so VALUABLE, that we lose no time in giving it to our readers. If Mr. Bateham had only enlightened the public sooner, upon this subject, he would no doubt receive the thanks of thousands of strawberry growers who have for twenty-five years been wasting time in cultivating the Hovey, when " any one of a dozen popular varieties is superior to it for hardiness, productiveness, andjlavor." [The italics are our own.] Mr. Bateham is a most unfortunate man, and is to be commiserated by his friends that his lines have been cast in a region so unpropitious for strawberry culture : — " Hovey's Seedling has not generally succeeded well in this region. The plants fail to withstand both our winters and our summers, and the soil of the Scioto valley seems less suited to this than any other va- riety. On the hill lands of Kentucky, near Cincinnati, it succeeds very well ; also on the more sandy soils of Eastern Ohio, and around Cleveland. At the latter place the crop of this variety the present season was magnifi- cent in appearance, but the fruit was the most deficient in flavor of any strawberries we ever tasted. This is a characteristic fault of the variety, and it was no doubt aggravated by the stormy weather about the time of ripening. Any one of a dozen popular varieties is superior to this for hardiness, productiveness and flavor, in this locality." [If anybody cultivates the Hovey after this, it will be because they don't value Mr. Bateham's opinion very highly, — Ed.] Premidm Essays fob Fruit. — Col. Harris, of the Ohio Cultivator, oc- casionally gets off" a good thing, and his notice of the offer of premiums for Essays on Fruits, by the American Institute, of which considerable has been said, is so happy that we copy the following from his journal of last month : — " At a recent meeting of the Board of Agriculture of the American In- stitute, N. Y., it was resolved to offer pr!zes for essays on Fruit Culture. The idea is a good one — a capital good one, if the judges of final award are well enough versed in pomological literature to adjudicate in favor of original essays, instead of the present style of re-hash from foreign writ- ings, and also, which is to be pre-supposed, they know experimentally whereof they judge, instead of being only of the SparroAVgrass kind, who say elegant things Beecher-wise, very pleasant to read in the shade, and for country newspapers to quote, but of no sort of use to take into the orchard or nursery to work by. The good idea instanced above is thus set forth in the Tribune's report of the sayings of the Board of Agriculture, in the pe- culiar breezy lexicography employed by gentlemen of the Club, who some- times hit upon a good thing to redeem themselves from a good deal of OCTOBER. 469 " Solon Robinson arose and said, that he held in his hand a letter from one of the most practical and most successful fruit-growers, particularly of grapes — one who has done more than any other man in propagating and introducing that most valuable of all hardy grapes, the Delaware — asking the American Board of Agriculture to offer a premium of $50 for the best essay, and $25 for the second best, on the culture of grapes ; and the same premiums for essays on the cultivation of pears ; the money for which this gentleman provides. For which, said Mr. Robinson, knowing him to be a high-minded, liberal gentleman, as willing to give as to receive information, I will stand sponsor. He also suggests the same premiums should be offered for essays upon the cultivation of the apple and the peach, with a view, if possible, to discover something to arrest the almost universal dis- ease which is rapidly sweeping this fruit from our country." Catalogues, &c., received. — Descriptive Catalogue of Greenhouse and Stove Plants cultivated and for sale at the Commercial Garden and Nursery of Parsons & Co., Flushing, L. I., New York, for 1859 and 1860. Geneva Nurseries, Geneva, N. Y. — W. T. & E. Smith's Wholesale Cat- alogue of Fruit and Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, Roses, &.c., for 1859 — 60. Prince's Descriptive Catalogue of Select Varieties of Strawberries, com- prised in their unrivalled collection, Flushing, L. I., N. Y., W. R. Prince & Co., proprietors; forty-fourth edition: 1859 — 60. A most complete catalogue of nearly every strawberry ever heard of. Supplementary Catalogue of Fruit Trees, Grape Vines, Strawberries, Roses, Shrubs, &c., cultivated at Fruitland Nurseries, Augusta, Ga., by P. J. Berckmans & Co., 1859—1860. Descriptive Catalogue of Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, &c., cultivated and for sale at the Coshocton Nurseries, by T. S. & W. Humrickhouse, Coshoc- ton, Ohio, 1859 and 1860. Pirssncljusctts Ifortitiiltnral Sotittg. Saturday, Aug. 27. — Exhibited. Fruit : From A. D. Webber, Rostiezer pears, fine. From F. Dana, fine Jefferson plums. Beurr6 Giffard pears from J. S. Cabot, fine. Hovey & Co., Alexandrina, Rostiezer, Boston, Ster- ling, Elizabeth, and Passans du Portugal pears. From A. J. Dean, beauti- ful specimens of McLaughlan plums, H. Vandine, handsome Muskingum pears and several varieties of plums. B. Harrington, fine Williams's Fa- vorite apples. D. W. Lincoln, very large Rostiezer pears. Mrs. S. Spaul- ding, Williams apples. J. W. Foster, Black Hamburgh grapes. Fine Dorchester blackberries from J. Nugent and G. Merriam. From G. R. Sampson, fine Coolidge's Favorite peaches. J. F. Allen, Allen's Hybrid, and seven other varieties of grapes. Sept. 3d. — An adjourned meeting of the Society — the President in the chair. 470 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. The Secretary having recorded the Report submitted by Mr. S. Walker, at the meeting August 6th, which was rejected by the Society, Mr. C. M. Hovey called for some vote to correct the error. Dr. E. Wight moved an indefinite postponement of the subject, which motion was rejected by a large majority. On motion of Hon. J. S. Cabot, it was then voted that the Secretary be directed to write the following upon the margin of the report : — " This report not having been accepted, it being the opinion of the Soci- ety that no report should be recorded until accepted, the record of this report is hereby cancelled, in accordance with the vote of the Society passed Aug. 13th." Letters were read from E. S. Rand, E. S. Rand, Jr., and G. W. Pratt, declining re election. Meeting dissolved. Exhibited. — Flowers: From the President, a fine display of phloxes, among which was a new and very fine variety named Marie Cantaron ; also, gladiolus, asters, and other fine flowers. From Hovey & Co., five superb varieties of Japan lilies, viz. : Melpomene, Terpsichore, Thalia, Euterpe* and Erato. Fine dahlias from Barnes & Washburn. Fruits : From B. Harrington, fine Williams's Favorite apples. From D. W. Lincoln, very handsome Sterling pears. From T. Clapp, superb Gravenstein apples. From W. Bacon, beautiful Columbia, Diamond, and Sharp's Emperor pjums. From N. Stetson, a dozen very large and splendid Shanghae peaches. From M. P. Wilder, Hartford Prolific grapes, one bunch, well colored but not quite ripe. From Hovey & Co., Palestine and eight other varieties of grapes ; Thomas plums ; Boston, Alexandrina and other pears, and Nerii figs. G. Merriam and J. Nugent sent fine Dor- chester blackberries. James Hill, Jennings' Seedling grape, very black and ripe, but of ordinary quality ; as a market grape it sells well, being re- markably early. H. Vandine, twelve varieties plums, fine Muskingum pears and Porter apples. J. F. Allen, Allen's Hybrid, No. 13, and six var. foreign grapes; also. Belle Luciative, Washington and other pears. AWARD or PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS. Summer Apples. — For the best, to B. Harrington, for the Williams, $6. For the next, to H. Vandine, for Red Astrachan, $4. Summer Pears. — For the best, to H. Vandine, for Beurr6 GifFard, $5. Blackberries. — For the best, to J. Nugent, for the Dorchester, $5. For the next, to G. Merriam, for the same, $4. For the next, to J. W. Foster, for the same, $3. For the next, to W. H. Barnes, for the same, $2. Currants. — For the best, to J. Nugent, for Red Dutch, $3. For the next, to F. Dana, for White, $2. Gooseberries. — For the best, to J. Mitchell, ^3. For the next, to A. D. Webber, $2. Raspberries. — For the best, to J. W. Foster, for Knevet's Giant, ^4. For the next, to W. H. Barnes, for the same, #3. For the next, to W. R. Austin, for the same, $2. OCTOBER. 471 Sept. 10th. — Exhibited. Flowers: From the President, a fine display of phloxes, gladiolus, &c. From Barnes & Washburn, fine dahlias. From W. C. Strong, Tritoma uvaria. From M. P. Wilder, seedling Japan lilies> some of them fine, and a beautiful plant of Gesnera zebrina splendens. Fruit : From F. Dana, very fine specimens of Excelsior pears. From B. Harrington, very handsome River apples. From the President, Boston pears, very large. From Hovey & Co., Boston, Moyamensing and Alexan- drina pears. From M. P. Wilder, Van Mons Musque6 pears, large and handsome. From J. F. Allen, four vars. of grapes. From Hon. E. Tuck- erman, fine figs. From H. Vandine, 10 vars. plums, including fine Jefferson and Green Gage. The Thirty-First Annual Exhibition of the Society was held at the MUsic Hall, Winter Street, on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, the 20th, 21st, 22d and 23d of September. The arrangements of tables for the fruit and flowers were the same as at the last exhibition at the same place in 1857. Five long and wide tables extended lengthwise of the Hall, upon which were arranged the fruit. At one end of these were two long tables extending crosswise of the Hall, for vegetables. The two sides were devoted to stands for cut flowers, and the platform was filled with plants in pots and the choicer floral productions. Contrary to the expectations of most of the members, after so cool and dry a summer, with an early frost and severe gales, the show was one of the best the Society ever made, and in some departments far superior. The plants in pots were the leading feature of attraction, and appeared to afford the greatest satisfaction to the visitors. The dahlias were also good. The pears were very fine, the apples excellent, and the grapes superior to any exhibition the last four years. The vegetables were of the most remarkable character, showing the great improvement which has taken place in the cultivation, as well as the introduction, of many fine kinds. Unfortunately, stormy weather prevailed the entire week, preventing that attendance of the public which the exhibitions of the Society usually com- mand. It is to be regretted that so fine a show should not have been wit- nessed by a larger number of visitors. Our report is as extended as our limits will allow : Plants in Pots. — Prominent in the display and attracting a crowd of visitors, were the variegated and fine foliaged plants, an entire new feature in this department : these were principally from the collection of Hovey & Co., and embraced the following : — Farfugium grande, Finca major variegata, Caladium pictum, Agapanthus variegata, atropurpureum, Croton pictum, Diffenbachia maculata, variegatum, DracBB^na terminalis, Coleus Blumez, Cissus discolor, Hydrangea japonica variegata, Begonia Rex, Rhopala Skinneri, splendida argentea, elegans. 472 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. • Also, the following plants : Eugenia Ugni, with fruit ; Ardisia crenulata and c, fructo albo; Bignom'a Chamberlaynii ; Bouvardias; Fuchsias Little Bo Peep, Rose of Castile, Masanielio, &c. ; Glori6sa Plantii; Lady Plymouth and twelve other varieties of variegated geraniums ; two large palms, two large bamboos, (Bambusa metake,) 8 feet high, and other plants. Also, a group of the following Coniferous trees in pots : — Cupr6ssus hawsoniana, 2 ft. Thuja com pacta, 2 ft. Macnabiana, 2 ft. pendula, 6 ft. , funebris, 6 ft. aurea, 4 ft. ./3'bies orientalis, 3 ft. Pinus sp. from Mexico, 6 ft. Picea Nordmam'aria, S ft. Biota meld6nsis, 3 ft. Thuja Craigiana, 3 ft. Cryptomeria Lobbii, 3 ft. Hoveyii, 2 ft. Juniperus pendula, 4 ft. Lobbii, 2 ft. Thujopsis borealis, 3 ft. The Thujopsis, Cupressus Lawsom'ana and Thiija Hoveyii were superb specimens. From G. G. Hubbard, a superb plant of Maranta zebrina, a fine Sago palm, the curious Acrostichum alcicorne, (the Elk-horn fern), and other plants. From G. Evers, Farfugium grande, Adiantum cuneatum, Lycopo- dium sp. and other plants. From T. G. Whytal, Erica gracilis, fuchsias, &c. From M. Trautman, Maranta zebrina, Adidntum cuneatum, and other plants. From W. C. Strong, several new gloxinias, and other plants. From J. Kelly, a fine palm, (Chamserops humilis,) which added much to the decoration of the Hall. Bouquets. — These were all exceedingly fine. Messrs. Copeland, Hovey & Co. and Evers contributed the large ones for the Bradlee, Jones and So- ciety's vases. Messrs. Wilder, Copeland, Hovey, Nugent, Whytal, Apple and others contributed the hand and table bouquets, some of which were very tastefully arranged, those from Messrs. Hovey & Co. being in an entire new style. Cut Flowers. — These were numerous and fine, and came from the President, Barnes & Washburn, Hovey & Co., W. C. Strong, A. Apple, G. G. Hubbard, T. G. Whytal, J. Murray, J. Nugent, and others. In the stand of Messrs. Hovey & Co. were large quantities of superb Japan lilies, nearly 100 varieties of annuals, fine roses, German asters, &c. Mr. Cope- land, in addition to other flowers, had some double white camellias. A collection of native flowers, from D. Murray and the Cambridge Botanic Garden, were very interesting botanically. The dahlias were unusually fine, considering the cool weather. Miscellaneous Decorations. — Among these we should not omit to mention a model of the Chapel at Mount Auburn, executed by Mrs. Mann, with spruce cones, in the most tasteful manner, showing great skill in fancy work of this kind. Some neat pyramids, executed with beans of all shades, inlaid and varnished, also displayed much skill in the arrangement of colors. Fancy baskets, wreaths, and other floral designs, from Mrs. Mead of Bel- mont, Mrs. Walsh of Brighton, Miss Harris, Miss Kenrick, Mrs. Pierce, and other lady contributors, added much to the general display. The following is the award of premiums : — OCTOBER. 473 • PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES FOR PLANTS, FLOWERS, &C. Plants in Pots. — For the best twenty varieties, to Hovey & Co., #25. For the next best, to G. Evers, #15. For the best ten varieties, to T. G. Whytal, $10. For the next best, to James Murray, $8. Specimen Plants. — For the best, to G. G. Hubbard, for Maranta ze- brina, $8. For the next, to Hovey & Co., for Farfuguim grande, $6. For the next, to G. Evers, for Testudinaria Elephantipes, #4. Large Bouquets. — For the best pair for the Bradlee vases, to Hovey & Co., #10. For the best pair for the Jones vases, #10. For the best pair for the Society's vases, #10. Parlor Bouquets. — For the best pair, to C. Copeland, #8. For the next, to M. P. Wilder, #7. For the next, to J. Murray, #6. For the next, to A. Apple, #5. For the next, to T. G. Whytal, #4. For the next, to Jas. Nugent, $3. Mantel Bouquets. — For the best, to Miss E. M. Harris, $5. For the next, to W. E. Carter, #3. Hand Bouquets.— For the best, to T. G. Whytal, $5. For the next, to Hovey & Co., #4. For the next, to J. Nugent, $3. Dahlias. — For the best fifty, to C. Copeland, #7. For the next, to Barnes & Washburn, #6. For the next, to A. Apple, #4. Cut Flowers. — For the best, to C. Copeland, #15. For the next, to A. Apple, #12. For the next, to Hovey & Co., #10. For the next, to Barnes & Washburn, #8. For the next, to G. G. Hubbard, #6. Native Plants. — For the best, to Cambridge Botanic Garden, #3. For the next, lo D. Murray, #2. Gratuities. — To Hovey Sl Co., for new plants, #10. To Mrs. J. Mann, for cone work representing Mt. Auburn Chapel, #10. To J. Kelly, for Palm, #5. To T. G. Whytal, for design, #5. To E. Flynn, for dahlias, #5. To J. Breck, for flowers, #4. To D. W. Lincoln, for leaf of Victoria regia, $4. To W. C. Strong, for plants, #3; Miss Russell, bouquets, #3; T. G. Whytal, Passaflora Imp. Eugenie, #3 ; Miss Mary Brookline, roses^ #3 ; Mrs. E. B. Grant, design, #3 ; C. Copeland, design, #2 ; F. Lamson, baskets, #2 ; Miss A. C. Kenrick, baskets, #2 ; W. C. Strong, Gloxinias, #2; Mrs. A. Pierce, wreath, #2; Miss Mead, display, #2 ; W. Heustis, roses, #2 ; M. Trautman, plants, #2 ; Miss E. M. Harris, wreath, #2 ; Mrs. W. Kenrick, design, #1, and wreath' 474 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. $\ ; Mrs, Fisk, display, ^1 ; James F. Clark, balsams, |1 ; Thomas Walsh, grass bouquets, $1 ; Miss S. S. Prentice, $1 ; Mrs. Nash, ornaments, $1. Fruit : The show of fruit was excellent. We have only room to no- tice a few of the most remarkable specimens. These were the Beurre Clairgeau pear of Mr. Stickney, the B. Sterckman of Messrs. Hovey, the Andrewsof Mr. Gordon, the Beurre Superfin of Mr. Wilder, and the Easter Beurr6 of Capt. Austin ; superb Flemish Beauty from J. Eaton, J. F. Allen, J. Haley and H. Vandine, and superior B. Clairgeau from Messrs. Dana, Hovey, Vandine, Eaton, Davis, Haley and others; this fine pear proves to be uniformly large and handsome. Among the apples, we noticed very beautiful Washington, Gravenstein, Maiden's Blush, Hubbardston Non- such, &c. ; and among grapes, a fine bunch of Bowood Muscat from W. P. Perkins, Barbarossa from R. S. Rogers, Palestine from W. K. Hunt, and Cannon Hall from Mrs. Durfee. Among native grapes, the Concord was the only kind fully ripe from out-door culture. Allen's Hybrid, from J. F. Allen, were beautiful, but they were raised under glass. From the President of the Society, twelve varieties of pears, and ten va- rieties of grapes. From Hovey & Co., one hundred and seventy varieties of pears, among which were America, B. Sterckman, Abbott, Sheldon, Alexandrina, Gen. Lamoriciere, Grand Soliel, Kingsessing, Lodge, Merriam, Beurre Kennes, B. Superfin, Collins, Reading, De Deux Soeurs, B. Clairgeau, Des Chas- seurs, &c. Twenty varieties of apples ; and Concord, Perkins, Diana and Isabella grapes. From M. P. Wilder, one hundred and twenty-five varieties of pears — among them the Willermoz, Beurr6 Antoinette, Counsellor Ranwez, Retour de Rome, Colmar d'Alost, Merriam, B. Superfin, B. Kennes, &c. From J. S. Cabot, one hundred varieties of pears, among them several seedlings, large, handsome, and promising well. From S. Walker & Co., fifty varieties of pears, including De Tongres Kingsessing, Graslin, Howell, Alex. Lambre, Fred. Bremer, B. Clairgeau Paternoster, &c. From H. Vandine, sixty varieties of pears ; eight varieties of plums, ia eluding Reine Claude de Bavay, and Reine Claude Violet, and four vars, of apples. J. Stickney, thirty varieties of pears — among them B. Superfin B. Langelier, Dix, Collins, &c. Wm. Bacon, forty varieties of pears — among them Des Nones, Collins, Graslin, Paternoster, &c. J. Gordon forty varieties of pears and ten varieties of apples. A. D. Williams, twen- ty-six varieties of pears and twenty varieties of apples. From W. H. Barnes, twelve varieties of pears, and Black Hamburgh and Zinfindal grapes. Wm. R. Austin, twelve var. pears. J. F. Allen, nine var. of pears, and seven var. of grapes, including several bunches of Allen's Hybrid, very fine. D. W. Lincoln, ten varieties of pears. Nath'I White, twelve var. of pears, among them the Pocahontas, and Hubbardston Nonsuch apple. Gustav Evers, ten var. pears, and 20 var. of apples, among the latter the Washington. W. T. Andrews, eight var. pears, and three OCTOBER. 475 var. of apples. S Martin, twelve var. of pears. A. Parker, twelve var. of pears. W. A. Crafts, ten var. of pears. From T. Clapp, twenty varieties of apples, among them the Washington, Maiden's Blush, Williams, Gravenstein, Gloria Mundi, &c. James Eustis, twenty var. of apples, including Hubbardston Nonsuch, Poillard, Graven- stein, Porter, Fall Harvey, Ben, &c. W. W. Wheildon, ten var. of apples. J. A. Stetson, six var. apples, and five of pears. B. Harrington, ten var. of apples, and a fine basket of fruit. From Davis & Bates, Beurre Clairgeau pear tree, in a pot, with fruit, and other pears. H. Davis, seven var. of pears. J. Eaton, six var. pears. J. Haley, ten var. pears. P. R. L. Stone, ten var. pears. F. Dana, Amer- ica, Dana's Hovev, and eight other varieties of pears. Mrs. C. Valentine, six var. of pears. E. A. Story, eight var. pears, and Lady Haley apples. M. R. Fletcher, six var. of apples and six var. of pears. G. G. Hubbard, ten var. of pears. H. K. Moore, five var. of pears. W. A. Crafts, ten var. of pears. From H. S. Mansfield, twelve var. of grapes, among them the Grizzly and White Frontignan, Victoria, Portugal Muscat, M. of Alexandria, Sy- rian, &c. Mrs. F. B. Durfee, six var. of grapes, including Cannon Hall, M. of Alexandria, Black St. Peters, B. Hamburgh, &c. W. P. Perkins, six var. of grapes, viz., B. Hamburgh, Wilmot's, West's St. Peter, Cannon Hall, Muscat of Alexandria, and Bowood Muscat. C. L. Holbrook, Syrian and White Nice grapes, and Late Crawford peaches. F. W. Hunt, Black Hamburgh, M. of Alexandria, and Palestine grapes, the latter a bunch 18 inches long. C. E. Grant, B. Hamburgh, Chasselas, and M. of Alexandria. R. S. Rogers, three very large and heavy Dunches of Barbarossa. N. Harding, Sweetwater, out-door culture, fine. Native grapes came from George B. Cutter, who sent Isabellas, part of •which were from girdled vines, the berries quite large ; also Concord. A. J. L. Cass, fine Isabella. H. H. Lewis, Isabella. T. Waterman, Isabella, Diana and Breck. J. W. Hubbard, Isabella. C. E. Grant, Isabella and Catawba. K. Bailey, Isabella. J. G. Dodge, Isabella, very ripe. N. T. Allen, Concord. E. W. Bull, Concord. W. Ross, Diana and Winnie. Mrs. C. F. Chaplin, Concord and Isabella. J as. Murray, Isabella. J. V. Wellington, Isabella. J. G. Chandler, Concord and Diana, some of each from girdled vines, large and handsome. Pears, apples and grapes were contributed from other cultivators, but we have not space to enumerate them. Those we have named embrace the greater part of all who sent collections. The following is the award of premiums : — PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES FOR FRUITS. Apples. — For the best twenty varieties, twelve specimens each, to T. Clapp, #20. For the next, to A. D. Williams, $15. For the next, to James Eustis, #12. For the best fifteen varieties, twelve specimens, to Plovey Sl Co., $12. For the next, to G. Evers, $10. For the best ten varieties, twelve specimens, to J. Gordon, $ 8. 476 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. For the best five varieties, twelve specimens, to W. W. Wheildon, $6. For the next, to B. Harrington, $5. For the next, to J. A. Stetson, $-3. For the best dish, twelve specimens, to T. Clapp, for Gravenstein, $5. For the next, to W. W. Wheildon, for Maiden's Blush, $4. For the next, to N. H. White, for Hubbardston, $3. For the next, to W. T. Andrews, for Gravenstein, $2. Pears. — For the best twenty varieties, twelve specimens each, to John Gordon, $25. For the next, to Wm. Bacon, #20. For the next, to Hovey & Co., f 16. For the best fifteen varieties, twelve specimens, to H. Vandine, $15. For the next, to G. Evers, f 10. For the best ten varieties, twelve specimens, to W. R. Austin, $\0. For the next, to Jesse Haley, $8, For the next, to W. A. Crafts, Roxbury, #6. For the best five varieties, twelve specimens, to Jacob Eaton, $6. For the next, to Francis Dana, $5. For the best dish, twelve specimens, to W. R, Austin, for Easter B. $5. For the next, to John Gordon, for Andrews, $4. For the next, to J. Stickney, for B. Clairgeau, $3. For the next, to J. F. Allen, for Flemish Beauty, $2. Grapes. — For the best five varieties, two bunches of each, to Mrs. F. B. Durfee,J10. For the next, to W. P. Perkins, $8. For the next, to J. F. Allen, $6. For the best two varieties, two bunches of each, to C. S. Holbrook, $5. For the next, to W. H. Barnes, $4. For the best collection, to H. S. Mansfield, $10. For the next, to J. Breck & Son, $». Native Grapes. — For the next, to R. Murray, for Isabella, $5. For the next, to J. V. Wellington, for Isabella, $4. For the next, to Hovey & Co., for Concord, $3. Gratuities. — Apples: For Collection, to Henry Emerson, $2; John Gilbert, $5; D. E. Jewett, $1 ; Wm. Smith, $1 ; S. G. Davis, $1 J. H. Heald, $1 ; W. D. Phelps, $1 ; W. R. Fletcher, $] ; Jas. Mun- roe, $1 ; Mrs. C. F. Chaplin, $2 ; J. Reed, $1 ; W. P. Parker, #1 Abner Peirce, $1. Pears : For collection, to M. P. Wilder, $10 ; to Hovey & Co., $10 J. S. Cabot, $10 ; Samuel Walker, $7; J. Breck & Son, $5 ; S. V, Merritt, $5 ; P. R. L. Stone, $3 ; Jas, A. Stetson, $3 ; W. Heustis, Magazine of Horticulture; L. S. Richards, Mag. of Horticulture; B. Harrington, for basket of fruit, $3. Grapes: To C. E. Grant, for pyramid of fine fruit, silver medal. To W. P. Perkins, for fine Bowood Muscat, silver medal. To R. S. Rogers, for fine Barbarossa, silver medal. To N. Harding, for Sweetwater, open culture, $2. To F. W. Hunt, for fine Palestine and other sorts, silver medal. OCTOBER. 477 Native Grapes : To J. G. Dodge, Isabella, Magazine of Horticulture. To K. Bailey, Isabella, Mag. of Hort. To T. Waterman, Brack, Mag. of Hort. To A. L. Cass, Isabella, Mag. of Hort. To Hovey & Co., for Perkins, Diana, and Isabella, silver medal. To J. F. Allen, for Allen's Hybrid, silver medal. To G. B. Cutter, for Isa- bellas, girdled and not girdled, Magazine of Hort. To W, Ross, for Diana and Winnie, Magazine of Hort. To Mrs. C. F. Chaplin, for Sweetwater and Concord, $2. Vegetables. — These were more select and fine than at any previous exhibition. Hubbard squashes were shown in abundance, and genuine ; also, extra large cauliflowers and handsome Marrow squashes. Among the new things, Messrs. Hovey & Co. sent Frogmore Protecting Broccoli, white, large and fine ; Rosewort Colewort, purple and white Cottager's kale, and Silver beet. The whole show was highly creditable to the Society, and we regret we have no space to particularize. The judges awarded premiums as follows : — PREMIUMS AND GRATUITIES FOR VEGETABLES. Beets. — For the best, to J. Crosby, for Long Blood, ^3. For the next, to G. W. Pierce, Long Blood, $2. Carrots. — For the best, to J. Crosby, Long Orange, $3. For the next, to G. W. Pierce, Short Scarlet, $2. Corn. — For the best, to A. Bowditch & Son, Burr's Imperial, $4. For the next, to A. D. Webber, $3. For the next, to G. G. Hubbard, #2. Potatoes. — For the best collection, to A. Bowditch & Son, ^5. For the next, to H. A. Fuller, $3. Parsnips. — For the best, to J. Crosby, $3. For the next, to J. Stickney, $2. Squashes. — For the best, to J. Crosby, for Hubbard and Marrow, $5. For the next, to G. W. Pierce, for the same, $3. For the next, to J. Stickney, for Marrow, $2. Turnips. — For the best, to B. Harrington, for Purple Top, $3. Tomatoes. — For the best, to Geo. Pierce, ^3. For the next, to J. Nugent, $2. Cauliflower. — For the best, to A. Bowditch & Son, $5. For the next, to G. R. Sampson, $i. Cabbage. — For the best Drumhead, to S. A. Merrill, ^4. For the next, to A. Bowditch & Son, ^3. For the next, to D. & G. F. Stone, $1. Muskmelons. — For the best, to J. Crosby, green flesh, $3. For the next, to J. Walsh, for the same, $2. For the next, to J. Stickney, $1. Gratuities, — For collections, to S. A. Merrill, ^10. To Hovey & Co., $6 ; A. Pierce, #4 ; D. &- G. F. Stone, #6 ; I. P. Rand, #6 ; G. R. Sampson, $5 ; H. A. Fuller, $3 ; B. Harrington, $2. To T. G. Whytal, for beets, $1. F. Dana, squashes, $1. T. Walsh, onions, f 2. A. Bowditch &, Son, $1. J. Nugent, beets and carrots. 478 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. A. Porter, Danvers, Mammoth squash, 164 lbs., #4. H. H. Hyde, Maiden, Mammoth squash, 130 lbs., #2. A. Hatch, onions, $-3. To J. J. H. Gregory, for Hubbard squash ; G. G. Hubbard, for collec- tion ; S. V. Meritt, two Mammoth squashes; C. S. Holbrook, three Mammoth squashes, each, Hovey's Magazine for one year. To A. D. Webber, for melons; J. W. Foster, for squashes; P. A. Sweet, for Hubbard squashes ; Josiah Stickney, for beets ; T. H. Marston, for melons ; W. W. Linfield, for cauliflowers ; I. P. Clark, tomatoes ; and Wm. H. Lumpkin, for squashes, each, the Gardener's Monthly, one year. To C. Bailey, for beautiful designs, made of various seeds, !^5. ituarg. Died, at his residence in Roxbury, Saturday, August 27th, Mr. James Pedder, at the age of 84 years, associate editor of the Boston Cultivator. Mr. Podder was well known to the agricultural Avorld, not only from his long connection with the Cultivator, but as editor of the Farmer^s Cabinet, formerly published in Philadelphia. Mr. Pedder was born in Newport, in the Isle of Wight, and after having charge of some of the most extensive agricultural estates in Wales, came to America in 1832. Landing at, Philadelphia, his intimate knowledge of the manufacture of sugar immediately procured for him an appointment by the Philadelphia Beet Sugar Society to visit France for the purpose of as- certaining the best method of manufacture. This duty he fulfilled to the entire satisfaction of the society, and on his return he was employed in the extensive sugar refinery of Mr. Levering of the above city, where we believe he continued till 1840, when he took the editorial charge of the Farmer's Cabinet, which he continued until the close of the work. It was through the columns of this journal that Mr. Pedder attained a high reputation as an agricultural writer. In 1843 he came to Boston, and was engaged in writing for the Cultivator till 1848, when he became resident editor; and since then he has contributed largely to its columns, " much that appeared year after year as the interesting articles of correspondents being the pro- duct of his ever active and fertile pen." Although Mr. Pedder's energies were devoted mainly to agricultural writing, he was well known as the author of a most successful work, enti- tled the " Yellow Shoestrings," one of the most readable books for children ; but he felt so deep an interest in everything relating to farming that he rarely neglected it for miscellaneous literature. It was our good fortune to know Mr. Pedder for many years. Kind hearted and benevolent, and retiring in his disposition, he was honored and loved by all who made his acquaintance, and though passing away at the ripe age of more than four score years, his death will be lamented by a large circle of friends. 479 lorticulturnl ©pera&ns FOR OCTOBER. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. September was a variable month. The weather was cool and dry in the early part, succeeded by a heavy gale, and a frost on the 15th and 16th severe enough to injure all tender vegetation, except in very warm and sheltered gardens. Large quantities of fruit were blown off by the gale, and greatly injured or destroyed. Succeeding this was another high wind, with an abundance of rain, which completely saturated the ground. With October the work of transplanting may be commenced. Prepare the ground well, and trees set out then will do much better than if deferred till spring. Continue to trench and prepare ground for spring. Complete all drainage, and earth up or protect young trees for the winter. Grape Vines in the earliest houses will now be growing fast, and, as the nights become cooler, will need stronger fires to keep up a good tem- perature. Stop the laterals as soon as they have reached their proper length : protect the border from cold rains. Vines in the greenhouse will now be at rest, and will need no further attention till the pruning season ; cut off all superfluous green wood upon vines in the greenhouse, to allow the sun's rays to reach the plants. Vines in cold houses will need atten- tion. Give air day and night, in fine weather, as upon the maturity of the wood will depend the success of next year's crop. Peach Trees in pots should have a more sunny situation, so as to thoroughly ripen the wood. Figs in pots should be protected from severe frosts, otherwise the young fruit, now set, will be destroyed. Fruit Trees of all kinds may be set out now. Currants and Gooseberries may be transplanted. Strawberry Beds should not be neglected. Keep the beds free of weeds, as the plants will now be maturing, and require an abundance of air and light. Fruit should be gathered immediately. It gains nothing by hanging upon the trees, unless the leaves are still green. Store in a dry cool room. flower department. With the advent of October cool and frosty nights soon follow, and the cautious gardener will see that all his plants are safely housed or protected in frames. Warm weather may continue to the middle of the month, but it is very uncertain ; besides, plants get wet and chilled, and, unless very hardy, they receive no benefit from exposure. Frames should be in readiness to receive all the smaller plants, as these do better exposed to the light and air, with proper protection at night. Camellias should all be housed immediately. Clean or wash the pots, and syringe freely if the foliage is dusty. Water sparingly, but do not let the plants suffer. 480 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. Chrysanthemujms will now begin to bloom ; protect them in frames, and remove to the house as they come into flower. Water with liquid manure. Pelargoniums should have a good situation upon the stage, as near the glass as possible. Water sparingly, and keep cool. Heaths should have the coolest place in the house, and where they can have an abundance of air. Calceolarias and Cinerarias for early blooming should be repotted. Seedlings should have a situation near the light. Azaleas may be kept in frames, where they can be sheltered from heavy rains as late as possible, unless wanted for early bloom. Water sparingly. Hyacinths for early blooming may be potted now. Cactuses should be placed on a warm shelf, and be kept rather dry, except the Epiphyllum truncatum and its varieties, which bloom in autumn. Bedding Plants of all kinds should be propagated this month for a spring stock. Roses in pots, intended for early blooming, may be shifted and pruned. Such as are introduced into the house immediately will bloom in January. Plants in the open ground should be potted. Mignonette in pots should be sheltered in frames till severe frosts. OxALiSES should be potted. Achimenes AND Gloxinias, done blooming, should be placed away on a dry shelf, under the stage. IxiAS, and other winter flowering bulbs, should be potted. Soils. Attend to the collection and preparation of a stock for spring use. flower garden and shrubbery. The cool month of September reminds the gardener of the approaching frosts, and of the necessity of taking up all such tender bedding plants as he wishes to preserve through the winter. Geraniums, Salvias, Verbenas, Petunias, &c., should be potted and placed in frames till well rooted. The lawn and walks should yet have attention. Collect all dry leaves, and preserve neatness, at least till severe cold renders it unnecessary. If the lawn is not kept smoothly cut it will materially injure it in the spring. Dahlias should be taken up before severe frosts, and safely housed. Gladioluses and Tiger Flowers should be taken up before hard frosts. Lilies of all kinds may be planted this month. Daisies should be set out, and have the shelter of a frame during winter. Carnations. Remove the layers to a frame, where they can be pro- tected in winter. Lily of the Valley and Pjeonies may be transplanted. Herbaceous Plants of all kinds may be set out now. It is the best time for this work. Neapolitan Violets should be removed to a frame. Roses and Shrubs of all kinds may be transplanted this month. Erythrina crista galli should be taken up and potted. Hollyhocks should be removed to a frame, where they can be protected from heavy rains and severe frosts. Madeira Vines should be taken up. CONSIDERATIONS UPON PEAR CULTURE. The cultivation of tlie pear is yet in its infancy. It is scarcely half a century since it has become a fruit of much importance, compared with the apple, the plum, the cherry, or the grape. The varieties of great excellence were few, and their culture confined to the walled or protected gardens of France, Belgium, and Great Britain. True, the old pomo- logical authors enumerate and describe a great number of sorts, but, besides the Doyennes, the Brown Beurre, the St. Germain, and a dozen or so more, they were only known in books and catalogues, or in collections of zealous pomologists, whose love of this, as well as other frui4;s, led them to gather together all the kinds of reputed merit, that they might prove and make known the qualities of such as were deserving a place in the garden. Such was the condition of pear culture when Van Mons commenced his labors in the production of new varieties. He appears to have turned his attention to this fruit in conse- quence of the want of superior pears, well convinced that its capability of excellence had not been fully appreciated. The fine old White Doyenne was a fair type of the luscious qual- ity of this fruit, and why should cultivators forever be content with this and the few others of similar excellence ? If so much had been already gained by chance, why would not a series of experiments, conducted upon physiological princi- ples, produce others equally as good or better ; and more than this, extend the season of choice pears over a greater space of time, nearly the year round ? Such, at least, we may infer were the motives which induced this indefatigable pomologist to persevere in his labors, till crowned with success, for though there may be a difference of opinion as regards the process by which he obtained his seedlings, or that by hybrid- zation, or even by chance production from the best varieties, all must admit that some of his pears are noble fruits, which VOL. XXY. — NO. XI. 31 482 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. will perpetuate tlie name of Van Mons wherever the pear is cultivated. Passing by those who preceded Yan Mons in the production of new pears, who left us the rich legacy of the Urbaniste, the Beurr^ Diel, and other choice sorts, his success encour- aged others to similar exertions, and Esperin, Gregoire, Bou- vier, and Bivort have labored with commendable zeal in rais- ing new seedlings, and have produced some very valuable varieties. The more than one hundred sorts of American pears, of varied excellence, have, with a few exceptions, been brought to notice within twenty-five years. Many are scarcely known out of their native locality, and a larger part have yet but a limited cultivation. Thus we see that the pear is comparatively speaking a modern fruit. We find but few old trees, as we do of apples, throughout the whole country, and thousands of persons have never yet tasted a variety so common as the Bartlett. Under these circumstances we think we do not err in stating that we yet know but little regarding the general cultivation of this fine fruit. Amateurs and young cultivators are apt to imagine, from the beautiful specimens which they often see exposed for sale in our markets, or placed upon exhibition before our horticul- tural societies, that these are produced without any remark- able labor or skill ; that the knowledge necessary to raise the apple, directed to the pear, will achieve like results. Upon this mistaken notion many fail. For simply to produce pears is quite as easy as to produce apples ; but the difference be- tween pears makes all the difference as regards the result. It is this remarkable variation in excellence which has caused the accumulation of so many synonyms to some varieties, a difference often so great as to prevent a recognition of the two as one and the same pear. The inquiry then naturally comes, what should cause this remarkable variation? But this is not so easily answered. It is what all zealous cultivators are endeavoring to solve. The effects are apparent enough, and many of our pomolo- gists fancy they have the knowledge and skill necessary to NOVEMBER. 483 prevent them. That some have done so we shall not deny, whether accidentally or by observation and practice, but still we hear complaints in every direction, and the remarkable specimens at our exhibitions are the exception to, rather than the general product of, tlie crop. The observing, patient, and investigating cultivator learns something every year. By a comparison of his own trees, growing often in different soils, and by comparison with those of his neighbors, both successful and unsuccessful, he learns much, or at least has the means within his reach of doing so. The fault is his if he does not profit by such experience. Now and then we hear of some individual who has produced the most beautiful pears, and at once it is attributed to his skill as a cultivator; but on analyzing the cause of his success we find it is more owing to the peculiarity of his soil or loca- tion, than to any extraordinary skill. In fact we have known persons who did not know one pear from another by name, to raise the most remarkable specimens we ever saw. Many of these cases have come under our observation, and with much experience as regards these variations in the pear, we have been ourselves greatly surprised and astonished. The peculiarity of the present season has revealed many characteristics of the pear. The crop, as is generally known, in the vicinity of Boston has not been large, nor the speci- mens quite equal to the average, yet many superb fruits have been produced. A visit to some of our principal cultivators has enabled us to see the effects of the year. The Glout Mor- ceau, usually very fine, everywhere has failed. Not one superior specimen was shown at the annual exhibition of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. The Louise Bonne has been very variable. Some extensive cultivators of this variety who have usually had good crops of fine pears, have had poor crops of indifferent fruit ; the specimens being knurly, one-sided, russety, and sometimes cracked ; and we might go on and name several varieties which have done no better. A single instance in our own grounds will suffice to show the incomprehensible character of the pear. An old tree, fifty or more years old, without any cultivation or ma- nure for years, was partially grafted four years ago with 484 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. Beurre Diel, Easter Beurre, and other sorts. The specimens were as large and smooth and fair as could be wished, while young trees of the same kinds, five to ten years old, within twenty rods of it, growing in trenched ground, on both the quince and pear, produced only rough, cracked and indiffer- ent fruits. A smooth and handsome Napoleon we rarely see on our few trees of this sort, while the same variety in a gar- den near by produces large, perfectly fair and handsome spe- cimens. All these examples of culture, with what we have previous- ly noticed, induce us to repeat the common inquiry. What is the cause of such remarkable variations ? and without, at this time, undertaking to answer the question, to conclude these considerations with some remarks in relation to the peculiar characteristics of the pear generally, and a few varieties in particular, which not only show the difficulty of giving a sat- isfactory solution, but confirm the well known fact, that there is a great deal to be learned before the pear can easily be produced in the highest perfection. It has been remarked by some horticultural writers, that all fruits succeed best in the localities where they originated. We are not ready to admit this, for, so far as our experience goes, as a rule it is not correct, though we doubt not there may be some exceptions. Certainly the history of pear cult- ure does not confirm it. Does not the Bartlett succeed well everywhere, even in the extreme south ? And does not the Louise Bonne, Duchess, Sheldon, Belle Lucrative, Le Cur^, Lawrence, Swan's Orange, Urbaniste, Buffum, Tyson, Seckel and many others thrive in every part of our extensive country ? We well know that all fruits will not succeed in all soils ; but this is quite another thing from locality. Pom- ological writers long ago informed us that certain pears must have a light, warm, rich and well-drained soil to produce them successfully, and every year's experience only confirms this opinion ; consequently, to plant in the very opposite of that which skilful cultivators have advised, would be courting failure, and therefore the above remark must have something more for its basis than the simple fact that because certain pears have not succeeded well with several cultivators, they fail out of their native locality. NOVEMBER. 485 The past season has been a trying one, and we have not the time to review all its changes here. Frosty, cool, dry and windy, trees have in almost every month been subject to in- jury. The first great source of trouble was the late cold of May 16th, when the temperature fell to 32^, with a very heavy white frost, which undoubtedly caused the falling of the entire blossoms of some pears, and the partial loss of oth- ers. Similar late frosts our variable climate is subject to, and therefore the cultivator in exposed places will know what kinds to rely upon, by knowing such as escaped this ordeal. Such as suffered most were the GloutMorceau, Beurr^ Lang- lier, Flemish Beauty, and Sieulle. Those which went through it without any injury, were the Swan's Orange, Lodge, Bartlett, Urbaniste, Dunmore, De Sorlus, Merriam, Andrews, Alexandrina, Beurre Clairgeau, Buffum, Beurre Robin, Pratt, Hull, Heathcot, Beurre d'Anjou, Duchess, Lawrence, Doyenn^ Boussock, &G. The cold rains of May were again disastrous ; what blos- soms there were that set, did not set their fruit kindly, and much of it was ill-sliaped and russeted, which may be referred to this or some other cause. That in most instances it was the long-continued easterly storms seems to be confirmed from the fact that the Louise Bonne, on both light and warm and stiff and heavy soils, were affected ahke. Of more than 500 trees particularly examined in these different localities, more than three quarters of the pears were more or less russeted and rough. Even the leaves of this pear were affected more than usual, and neither looked so vigorous during the sum- mer, nor held on so long in the autumn. Yet in our neigh- borhood, near our own grounds, perfectly smooth and fair, though not extra sized, pears of this variety were raised in abundance. Glout Morceau was quite as bad or worse ; our own specimens being knobly and actually cracking, which they rarely do. Flemish Beauty was much rougher than usual, and Bartlett was some spotted. Urbaniste, generally one of the smoothest of pears, was considerably russeted ; and we might name other varieties in the same way. That all these were generally affected, there is little doubt, for of all the pears from more than twenty-five of the principal collec- 486 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. tions exhibited in September, scarcely one lot of a dozen speci- mens was free from spots and blemishes, and these too select- ed from the very best pears upon trees where every inferior fruit had been thinned out. The question arises whether all this was the effect of a cold winter, a cold wet soil, the late frost, or chilly rains ? But whether either one or all of these, the fact remains, that these sorts have peculiarities important to be known. We now note another class, that never flinched ; which neither cold or hot, nor wet or dry weather seemed to harm. These were Swan's Orange, Lawrence, Alexandrina, Dun- more, Beurre Clairgeau, B. d'Anjou, B. Stercliman, Lodge, Duchess, and Sheldon. In high, dry loam, with a gravelly subsoil, in black peaty earth, with a clay base, in every part of our grounds, whether exposed or sheltered, Swan's Orange was alike large, fair, beautiful and excellent in quality. The Lawrence too was perfect, though we had no bearing trees in so many different positions as the last. Beurre Clairgeau, though apparently a slightly tender tree, carried its fruit per- fect through all the vicissitudes of the weather. Sheldon, though a russety pear, was perfect in form and finely bronzed in the sun. Beurre d'Anjou was unusually good in various localities, high and low, and has established its claims to a place among the hardy, certain pears. Doyenne Boussock has proved a glorious pear ; vigorous in habit and rich in fol- iage, its noble fruit not only set well, grew well and ripened well, but were as fair and beautiful as the Doyennd of olden times, only three times as large. Dunmore was a picture of a productive and handsome pear, with cheeks of vermilion, very large, and of a quality which has not yet been sufficient- ly appreciated. It is the best of Mr. Knight's seedlings, and one that any pomologist might be proud to raise. These at least — for we have no space to extend the list — can be put down as having no peculiarities worth noticing ; are not fas- tidious as to soil, location or exposure, and therefore worthy the attention of all who wish to grow fine pears, till they learn to grow the capricious sorts. Now this information may be neither new nor important to know. Yet we have been twenty-five years in obtaining it ; NOVEMBER. 48T if we could have known it so long ago, it would have saved us, so far as profitable culture is concerned, many hundreds of dollars. This is the knowledge we seek. Time alone and careful study will enable all to obtain these results. They show how very imperfect our knowledge really is ; that we judge too hastily and reject too quickly, and often throw aside a valuable fruit because a year or two's experience is not fa- vorable. Leaving then to further time and extended experience to answer the question we have proposed, let the young amateur as well as the older cultivator understand, that the perfection of pear growing is not attained in a day ; and neither be dis- appointed should their efforts prove a failure, nor believe that all who succeed do so from actual skill, but rather from acci- dental circumstances. Yet gathering information from every source, observing it where success attends, as well as where failure ensues, let them study the cause of each, and treasure up the results of such study for their guidance in tlie future. RURAL FESTIVALS. BY WILSON FLAGG. The small number of our national festivals has long been the subject of comment; and it is the general opinion that the establishment of a few such occasions, to be celebrated periodically, would promote the welfare of the community. The fourth of July is our only truly national holiday ; and this has been by custom so long devoted exclusively to military glorification, that it would be difficult to change the character of the festivities connected with it. It cannot be made a seasonal festival, and must always be military in its character. It has, indeed, by custom been long converted into a farce ; and the only parts of the entertainment which are designed to be a serious performance, are, in the eyes of foreigners, the greatest farce of all. I allude to the orations pronounced on this occasion, in which the speakers commonly indulge in the most egregious flattery of the people, and the most intense 488 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. national boasting. I cannot but regard the moral effects of these orations, repeated annually in every city in the Union for more than half a century, as extremely bad. They have served to aggravate our national follies, and they have not checked our national vices ; and it is worthy of remark, that whenever one of the appointed orators, who is always expected to jingle his words to the same tune, deviates from custom and dares to censure some of our habits and practices, he excites almost universal indignation. The greater part of the festivities of foreign nations origi- nated in some superstition : and the simplicity of the peasan- try preserves them in their original form. The great obstacle in the way of establishing festivals among our people, is the proneness of the Americans to be governed by a love of osten- tation, rather than by a genuine enthusiasm, and to turn all sentiment into farce. As we have no legalized distinctions of rank, the people of all classes are affected with the notion that they may set themselves up as the true "aristocracy," and this sort of rivalry between them prevents any amicable union. Hence, on public occasions of all sorts, religious or festal, whatever may be the character of the day, except our political elections, the real object of it is apt to be forgotten in the endeavor of all classes to outvie one another in some fashionable ostentation. Let us not despair, however, of diverting the minds of the virtuous part of our population from the absurdities of mere ostentations amusements, and of directing them to more rational amusements, founded on greater simplicity of man- ners. As one step towards effecting this desirable end, we should establish two national festivals — one of seed time, and one of the harvest. Our annual agricultural Fairs would serve as a nucleus for the establishment of the Harvest Festival ; and a portion of the last week in May might be selected as the Floral Festival. The scarcity of flowers at this time is no objection to it ; since all people feel more interest in them when they are just beginning to appear, and there are but few of them. A little bunch of violets and anemones, and of the early flowers of the gardens, at this time, would attract more attention than a large hall crowded with the most superb exotics in September. NOVEMBER. 489 It would not be practicable to make the fourth of July or Thanksgiving day anything save what they are now — the one a military, the other a religious, holiday. I would not attempt to divert the minds of the people from the moral and legitimate objects of these occasions: — that of the Fourth, to remind us of our duties as members of a republic ; that of Thanksgiving, to remind us of the duties of charity and benevolence, besides the obligations of religious gratitude. Nor do I think that the Americans have not a sufficient num- ber of amusements: these are not what they lack; but they want amusements that possess a meaning and an aim, and such as are adapted to the country as well as the town. I would, therefore, suggest the expediency of celebrating two additional holidays, — one to be called the Floral Festival, to take place on the last week in May ; the other, the Harvest Festival, to correspond with our Agricultural Fairs, and to be connected with them. On each of these occasions, the children and youths of both sexes should act a prominent part. But they should not be assigned to any particular place, like a cattle show. Every town should have its own celebration. The children should be allowed three days' vacation, to make preparations and complete their perform- ances. No particular order of exercises should be laid out for the whole community. I would merely suggest that the children and youths should be employed in selecting some interesting scene from the customs, ancient or modern, of a people of simple and moral habits, and unite in performing it, omitting certain parts that might not be appropriate. Many of the ancient rural festivals and games might thus, with expurgations, be performed with great advantage to the manners and education of our youth. While making preparations for this exhibition, the young persons employed in arranging it would be put to the task of studying a chapter in the history of the manners of the peo- ple, from whose customs the performance should be selected. "Harvest Home" might be named as one of the festivals which would admit of being performed: not to be fully carried out, but to be imitated as well as it might be done by youths at a pic-nic. The farmer, having gathered his crops, 490 THE MAGAZINE OF HOETICULTURE. welcomes to his table the jolly laborers who have assisted him in accomplishing the work. The procession represents these laborers of both sexes, in plain and modest attire, who, after partaking of the feast, join in songs and other amusements. Each of these holidays should be accompanied with exhibi- tions of both fruits and flowers, also of the fine arts, and other works of taste and ingenuity. If prizes are to be awarded, they ought not to be expensive gifts. The more simple the prizes, the greater the number who could be honored by them, and the more general the satisfaction attending them. For the best pot of flowers, or the best flower painting, or herbarium, a valuable book might consti- tute the prize. But this gift book should not be a novel or a romance ; for this class of literature has monopolized almost all public favor and patronage, and thrives at the expense of other departments, which are both more useful and more delightful also, after one has acquired a taste for them. The gifts, therefore, should consist of volumes on the different branches of the study of nature. If, for example, prizes be awarded for flowers, or paintings, or preserved specimens, the books selected for gifts should be such as " Voices from the Woodlands," by Miss Roberts ; and " Popular Geography of Plants," by E. M. C. These are English books. American authors have produced similar works, that might be selected for the same purpose. The reason must be apparent, to all intelligent minds, for selecting the gift books exclusively from this description of works, since, by so doing, we afford encouragement to a valuable and neglected department of literature, and, at the same time, promote a taste for the study of natural objects, and of the laws of nature. We stimulate this taste by the rural character of the holidays, and we supply it with food by the gifts which are conferred. Let this practice become general in our towns, and this class of studies, so shamefully neglected, would receive a new impulse ; and our publishers, who profess that they sink money on all works which are not of a strictly practical nature, except novels and sketches of wit and humor, might find an inducement to publish some well-written books, which are neither works of fiction nor practical guides. NOVEMBER. 491 I would offer prizes not only for the best flowers and fruits, but more particularly for neat and accurate drawings of dif- ferent natural and artificial objects. Sketches of nature deserve the precedence, since, all the world over, mechanic art finds ample encouragement, while art, as applied to natural history, is neglected and despised. In the awarding of prizes, therefore, we should endeavor to counteract this tendency ; and a card of pressed flowers or of preserved insects, scien- tifically arranged, should be more liberally rewarded than an improved machine for turning broom-handles, or a new apple- parer. For the best card of pressed flowers, a copy of Gosse's " Canadian Naturalist " might be given ; for the card contain- ing the largest number of insects, collected during the past year, in good condition, and scientifically arranged, a copy of " Episodes of Insect Life." I would not enter more particularly into details, or attempt to lay out a programme for these occasions. This it were better to leave exclusively to the taste and judgment of the parties concerned. Those which were the most skilfully and ingeniously conceived, would become models for others to imi- tate in succeeding festivals. Some order of exercises should always be selected, which is simple and easy of execution, and which is calculated to inspire the attendants, as well as the actors, with a love of rural pursuits, and the study of nature; which serves, beyond all other studies, to restrain that senseless ambition for ostentatious follies, which has been fatal to such multitudes of our people. POMOLOGICAL GOSSIP. New Grapes. — Every year adds to our stock of new hardy grapes. Now that attention is directed to their improvement new seedlings are annually raised, and accidental vines are watched with more than ordinary care.. The fact that some of our best fruits have been of chance growth, leads us to ex- pect the same results from the grape. This fruit has been the theme of conversation at various pomological and horti- 492 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTUEE. cultural meetings held the present autumn, and much has been said in regard to the character of the newer sorts, which are yearly becoming better known as their culture is extended and the vines attain age. In Rochester, Columbus, 0., and Chicago, 111., long discussions have been held upon the culture of the grape. From the report of a pomological meeting at Zanesville, 0., we copy the following notice of two new grapes : — Lydia. This grape is quite distinct from all other Ameri- can seedlings : the berry is of a fine yellowish green color when ripe, of good flavor, more sprightly than Isabella, and less aroma than Catawba ; berries round, medium size ; bunch rather small and irregular; in form, resembling in these respects the Catawba, and in color, also more nearly approach- ing the Anna of Dr. Grant. Season about with the Isabella, or ten days earlier than the Catawba. It was raised by Mr. Chas. Carpenter, of Kelly's Island, and received the premium at the Ohio State Fair. Mr. Carpenter stated to the writer that it was a chance seedling, which came up in his garden about ten years ago, and as there was no other variety than the Isabella at that time in bearing in the vicinity, he concluded it must be from a seed of the Isabella, though lie admitted the appearance of the bunch and berry more nearly resembled the Catawba. It was its fourth or fifth year of bearing fruit, and as it had continued to improve, he hoped to find it better a few years hence. Mottled. Originated by Mr. Carpenter, from seed of the Catawba, planted in 1850. The fruit resembles somewhat the Catawba in form, taste and color, but the berries are rather less in size, and the color is perceptibly mottled or clouded, (hence its name,) and the bunches are more com- pact and regular than those of Catawba. Season full as early as the Isabella, a few days later than Delaware and Concord, and two weeks earlier than Catawba. This was the fourth year of bearing on the original vine, and the improvement each year was quite perceptible. It was awarded the second premium on seedlings at the State Fair. NOVEMBER. 493 Cuyahoga Grape. — This is the name given to a new grape in the possession of Mr. C. H. Robinson, of Cleveland, 0. The Ohio Farmer says that it promises to be an acquisition to our list of hardy grapes. It is of strong growth, perfectly hardy, and decidedly native, without the smallest tinge of foxiness, sweet and delicious. Mr. R. will exhibit the fruit at Boston, Albany and New York : at a future time the Farmer will give it an extended description. Since writing the above, we find the following report on this grape by the Cleveland Horticultural Society : — The committee to whom was referred the grape presented by C. H. Robinson, would report, that they have visited Mr. Temple, a gentleman whom we believe to be worthy of the highest confidence, who gives us the following information in regard to it : About ten years since, he was sitting in the door of a store, in the town of Euclid, and observed between the steps a small seedling grape vine, one or two inches high. He took it up carefully, and planted it near his residence, where it soon grew up and bore fruit that he was much pleased with. He soon afterwards sold his farm, but had made a layer, which he took up and planted at the west end of his present residence, where we found it growing. He says it has been there aboi^t four years, and it is now a strong healthy vine ; some of the branches have grown about twenty feet this season. It is in a deep sandy loam, but has evidently had no extra culture. The foliage and growth much resem- ble the Isabella. He states that he has never given it any protection — that the wood has never been damaged by the severe winters — that it has never shown any disposition to mildew or rot, which the Isabellas clearly have — and that it has uniformly borne a good crop of fruit, equal in amount to the Isabella, and maturing one or two weeks earlier. The bunches are about as large, but not so compact, and the ber- ries about the same size and shape as the Catawba under the same cultivation. The color is a light transparent green, with a thick white bloom, — very little pulp, with a brisk, agreeable flavor. Discussion about Grapes in Rochester. — The Fruit Grow- ers' Society of Western New York held their annual meeting 494 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. on Thursday, the 23d September, Benj. Hodge, Esq., in the chair. The grape was the principal topic of discussion, though other fruits received considerable attention, and some useful information was elicited. A committee appointed for tliis object reported some sub- jects for discussion, one of which was as follows : Can any variety of grape, besides the Isabella, be recommended for general cultivation in Western New York ? We quote the substance of the remarks on this question : — Mr. Hoag would recommend the Hartford Prolific. Had cultivated it four years, and found it four weeks earlier than the Isabella growing side by side, while it is more productive and about equal in quality. Cultivated in the open ground, trained to stakes, it always ripens. We hear of a great many ripe Isabellas, but always find upon examination that they are in some particularly favorable situation, by the side of a house, -like, scorpoid spikes, formed of the closely-imbricated two-ranked flowers, white, DECEMBEE. 555 beautifully tinged with purple, and dotted with dark purple exserted anthers. Flowers nearly sessile on the spike ; calyx of two erect cordate unequal scariose sepals, much larger than the corolla. Corolla of four red, apiculated, ovate, erecto- patent sepals ; stamens 3, purple ; filaments longer than the petals and sepals." Such is Dr. Hooker's description. We are pleased to see our friend Mr. Sprague honored by such a singularly fine plant, which, from its native locality, we think will prove hardy, and become one of our most pop- ular garden flowers. We have seen nothing of late intro- duction so attractive as this. As it seeds freely, we doubt not it will soon find its way into our collections. (^Bot. Mag., Oct.) 492. MoMOEDicA MIXTA Roxb. Large-flowered Momor- DiCA. (Cucurbitacese.) China. A hothouse climber ; growing ten feet high ; with yellow and maroon flowers ; appearing in sum- mer; increased by cuttings; grown in rich soil. Bot. Mag., 18J9, pi. 5145. A showy climber, belonging to the Cucurbitaceae, " a fam- ily that have been too much neglected, for they present no small degree of beauty in their flowers." The present sub- ject has large pale yellow blossoms, three inches broad, with deep blackish spots at the base of the petals, succeeded by large, oval, rotundate, red, muricated, acute shaped fruit. It flowered in the tropical stove at Kew, but in our warmer climate it would undoubtedly, hke the gourds and other spe- cies, thrive in the open air in summer, and display its showy flowers and conspicuous fruits abundantly. It is a native of China, and has recently been introduced. Only the plants producing male flowers have yet been received, and the fruit is represented from a drawing received from Moulmein. — (^Bot. Mag., Oct.) @niual %n\\it%. History of an Orchard Vinery. — The following are the particulars as to the origin and results of a cheap or orchard vinery, which, if its very moderate cost and ultimate utility are considered, will I think prove inter- esting to many. I do not presume to instruct people either how to grow 556 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. grapes, or how to erect cheap orchard-houses as separate matters, as this information can be better obtained elsewhere; my object is simply to in- form your readers what has been done and at what cost, and to show that much more has been realized than could possibly have been expected either by employer or gardener, the former especially being unfavorably predis- posed to the contrivance, though now it is much in favor, its merits having been fully tested. The idea occurred thus:— Early in the spring of 1855, having on previous seasons felt the want of more convenience for wintering bedding plants, I had permission of my employer to expend a small sura for a pit, frame, or other building, which should supply what was required. I came to the conclusion that no erection would be so useful as a cheap building, which would answer the purpose of a hybernatory and grapery without fire heat. Four vines had been planted in a small greenhouse three years previously, which, owing to shading the plants, had never produced fruit, and had been otherwise very unsatisfactory, and into the intended cheap wooden orchard vinery it was thought these might be removed with advantage. I confess I was very anxious to give a fair trial to the princi- ple of connecting these two purposes with small cost of erection, and that such can be done is proved satisfactorily, both as to quantity and quality of the grapes, as well as the preservation of bedding plants. The result of a consultation with a master carpenter was, that 12 lights, 6 feet 9 inches long by 3 feet 6 inches wide, were prepared and glazed with 16 02, sheet glass, size 9 by 7 inches, with glazed ends, a door at one end, 7 rafters and 16 posts for the front and ends, 3 feet of which were fixed in the ground, and 2^ feet out, cut to a straight edge, to the outside of which are nailed half-inch deals; these form the front wall, four boards 9 inches wide from ground to wall plate ; the house measures inside 22 feet 10 inches long, by 11 feet 9 inches wide, the back wall is 9 feet clear inside, giving ample head room for path ; the rafters rest upon wall plate 3 by 5 inches back and front. So far as carpenter, bricklayer, painter and glazier were concerned the vinery was finished April 2; the border was then made by taking the soil all out inside to the depth of 2^ feet, and within one foot of the posts ; there were 6 inches in depth of rough brick rubbish placed for drainage, with a fall of from 3 to 4 inches toward the front, in which a common red 2-inch drain pipe was laid. Two thirds of the soil which was dug out were mixed up with five cart-loads of fresh loam, two loads of rotten dung, and two of brick rubbish and brickbats broken up so as not to exceed the size of a hen's egg; no other material whatever was used. On April 18 following, the four unsatisfactory vines alluded to were lifted from the greenhouse; they consisted of Muscadine, Black Hamburgh, West's St. Peter's, and Raisin de Calabre ; they had when removed made shoots from 4 to 5 inches long, and bled profusely on removal. These vines were planted up the back wall to which the house was built, having nearly a south aspect. They now come down the rafters and up again; planted within a foot of the front posts were also five Black Hamburgh vines, which had been raised and grown the previous season. The crop of 1855 consisted of 47 bunches on DECEMBER. 557 the young vines only, averaging | lb. each. The lifted vines of course received a considerable check, and made no wood thicker than the little finger the first season, but that was good and well ripened. In 1856 the house contained about 90 bunches of good quality. In 1857 there were upwards of 200 bunches; the first were cut August 3, though the average time of commencing cutting has been the middle of August, and when the weather became damp towards the end of October, having no heat what- ever, I cut about 100 bunches with part of the wood attached, sealed the ends and hung them up in a dry room of south aspect with occasional fire. These were in use till Christmas. In 1858 the crop exceeded 280 bunches ; I began cutting August 15; many of the bunches were li lb. weight, and the whole would average one pound each. Thinking that a small Arnott stove would keep the grapes best, I now had one placed in the centre of the vinery, with pipe carried through the back wall, and this season the crop was too large ; and owing to the absence of the family during part of No- vember and December, the crop hung too long. They however kept well until the middle of January of this year, and the present season, though the crop is not so large or good, we have had upwards of 200 bunches, sev- eral weighing from 1^ to 1^ lb. I began cutting August 22, and I have at this time (October 25) upwards of 120 bunches, which will average as many pounds ; no fire has been used until the recent damp days. The stove is employed with air, and only to dry the atmosphere, as well as not to injure the bedding plants which occupy the floor of the house, which is as useful as any of the same superficial contents for keeping various plants from October to May, during which time I use a cover of rough Manchester cot- ton sheeting; it is in lengths suitable for this house from top to bottom, and five sheets sewed together cover the roof at a cost of 2s. 6d. each, or 12*. 6d. for the whole ; these I find stronger than Frigi Domo, and at about half the cost. This is easily drawn up by sewing four rings to the cover and corresponding pulleys at the top of the house. After the house is cleared of bedding plants, the border is forked up, and during the summer is very useful for newly-potted plants owing to its shade. I usually give the border two thorough soakings of water during the growing season. I continue watering until I can see that it has passed through the whole of the soil and drainage, having a tub sunk few the pur- pose. From the end of July the border is allowed to become as dry as possible, when the house forms a good shelter for drying seeds, herbs, on- ions, &c. This cheap orchard vinery has, as has been stated, much more than* answered what was expected, the best proof of which is the desserts fur- nished to my employer and the cost of production. The average crop of the season would more than pay the entire cost of the house, and in some seasons has exceeded that, for the entire cost was something under £20, and the carpenter's bill included raising the back wall a foot at one end to get the level, also pointing, plastering and lime-washing, for the wall was very old, and full of nail holes. The Arnott stove was an after expense, 2h years after erection, and was 11. 14s., including about 13 feet of pipe for 558 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. chimney. I may remark that I give all the air possible in the spring with a view to retard the breaking of the vines, and in a secondary point of view the better for the plants, lest the frost, which sometimes does injury at the end of April and early in May, should find the young vine shoots unable to resist it. But with the covering I have hitherto had no reason to fear, and from the end of May for the next three months I shut up early and econo- mize heat as much as possible, checking growth as long as I can while I have the power, but, when unable to further retard, assisting to obtain and retain heat, closing the house early, frequently forking the border, and sprinkling soot, ashes and very rotten dung on the border. — {Gard. Chron.) How TO Grow Lilliputian Plants. — Chinese gardeners are famed for the skill with which they reduce plants which are naturally of some considerable size, and even large forest trees, to the very smallest dimen- sions. Dwarf plants are in great demand all over the Celestial Empire, and are generally very expensive. The custom of keeping in sitting rooms little stages ornamented with different things, and even with living plants, induced the gardeners of Europe to imitate the Chinese gardeners, although at a great distance, and to raise plants in tiny pots, generally choosing succulents, of which it is easy enough to obtain very small specimens. As experiments in this mode of cultivation increased, different kinds of plants were taken, and in Germany they at last succeeded in reducing hard- wooded plants and even forest trees themselves to a dwarf state. Thus, this art of the Chinese gardeners is transferred to Europe, and though the result is of no great importance, yet in a general horticultural point of view it is very curious. The first gardener in Germany who cultivated Lillipu- tian plants, that is to say, plants wii.h all their parts reduced to the smallest dimensions, was M. Boekel, from whose account we borrow the description of the method by which he obtained this curious result. As examples of what he produced, he mentions a plant of Ivy with 22 leaves, which, to- gether with its pot, might be covered by a large leaf of common Ivy ; also, an Oak, (Quercus robur), 13 inches high, whose head formed a ball 6 inches in diameter. The details of his mode of operation are as follows : — He had pots made of a very porous clay, the proper material for which was obtained by mixing equal portions of the clay used in making red and white pots, and adding four per cent, of ashes and one per cent, of sulphnr. For woody plants, such as oaks or others, the pots are very shallow, from about 2 to 2i inches high and G to 6.i wide ; for other plants he used pots from 1 to 2 inches high and broad. These pots he filled with soil or earthy mixtures, such as are used in common cultivation, only he adds a third part of very small flinty gravel. The pots are filled up to the brim and watered from below, by placing them in a dish containing water, or in a tin vessel made expressly for that purpose, with a tap, by means of which the water that is not absorbed is drawn off. In order to make dwarfs of such plants as oaks, elms, &c., it is best to take one year seedlings. In the spring their ends should be pinched off, to make them form laterals ; then when these have grown about two inches long, they are to be served in the same way; DECEMBER. 559 and the ends of all those which come afterwards are continually pinched off; the plants are then put in a cool place to prevent their shoots becoming too much drawn up; otherwise in general they like a sunny situation best. From herbaceous plants cuttings are taken and treated in the same manner. Climbing plants cannot be thus cultivated. To all plants which can bear this sort of treatment, liquid manure should be given every three or four weeks ; but care must be taken in administering this powerful stimulant, otherwise you may kill your plants. — [Card. Chron.) Culture of Pompone Chrysanthemums in 8-inch Pots. — Chrysan- themums are now exciting a large amount of interest, both in town and country, in consequence of the great number of exhibitions of them about to take place this month. I was favored last week with a treat I shall not soon forget, namely, an inspection of twelve of the best plants I ever wit- nessed in Mr. Beck's garden at Isleworth. They were grown by Mr. Hig- gins, Mr. Beck's gardener, under a range of glass at the north end of the grounds, about 44 feet long. There are twelve Pompones, grown in 8inch pots, and these occupied the whole length, touching each other, and if room had been afforded, would have averaged 4 feet 6 inches high ; as it is, they are rather cramped for space. Their height is 15 inches, and the average number of blooms 1500 ; they are furnished with fine dark foliage down to the rim of the pot. Mr. Higgins informed me he struck the cuttings the first week in December ; he put them in thumb pots, plunged them in ashes in a cold or light box, where they remained till they were rooted. When finally established he gave them a shift into 48-sized pots and stopped them. As soon as they threw out laterals, he carefully pegged them down till the last week in July, when they received their final shift into blooming pots. They were then plunged in a sheltered part of the garden, sinking the pots three parts down, and placing them on slates to prevent the roots growing out at bottom. When the plants had become well rooted, weak liquid ma- nure was used three times a week, and the foliage syringed night and morning. The pegs were all taken out and the plants removed to the house the first week in October, to guard against frost. They will be in perfec- tion by the middle of the month. — [Gard. Chron.) Transplanting Large Evergreen and Deciduous Trees. — Having had considerable experience within the last three years in transplanting very large evergreen and deciduous trees, perhaps a few observations may not be uninteresting, as the subject has been lately mooted in your columns. Some of the trees operated upon here have been of a large size, with balls of earth from one to eight tons in weight, and requiring nine strong horses to draw the machines with the heaviest trees. We have two machines of different construction, made by Mr, Barron, of Elvaston, on improved prin- ciples, and they answer the purpose admirably. Considerable dissatisfac- tion has occurred in some places, where large evergreens have been trans- planted, from the expectation that such trees would suffer no change in their transplantation. My experience has been that, however carefully and 560 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTUEE. well planted such very large evergreens have been, it takes two or three years after transplantation for them to look themselves again. In dry, hot sumnrers, copious waterings, every second or third week, will do much to keep them growing ; but all the watering possible will not make up for their mutilated roots in the first year of transplantation. In the second year new roots and fibres will be vigorously at work, and if properly plant- ed in good soil they will be quite recovered by the third year's growth. Some sensible observations on the transplanting of evergreens in the summer months have lately appeared in your columns from several corre- spondents. Although large evergreens can be planted with the machine any time in the year when the weather is open, I find that May, June, and Auo-ust are the best months for the purpose. In July, yews. Cedars of Leb- anon, hemlock spruces, and other evergreens are making their growths, and, if transplanted then, no amount of waterings or syringing at night will keep the young shoots from flagging and being injured in very hot days, on large trees, from the very great amount of surface exposed to the sun and their loss of roots. With smaller evergreens, such as a truck could shift, I ha.ve no doubt that plenty of watering and syringing in July would keep them from flagging until root action took plaoe. Having transplanted upwards of 300 large evergreen and deciduous trees in 1857, 1858, 1859, perhaps a list of the largest of the different varieties may be of use to intending planters. The first I shall name was a mulber- ry, with a stem 5 feet 4 inches in circumference ; this tree was removed from the old kitchen garden to a new one, which was formed in March, 1858, and bore a good crop of fruit the same summer. In the past summer it bore another excellent crop, and the fruit was larger and finer than usual. This tree is known to be above 100 years old, and the late Mr. Mearns, when gardener here, commenced training it to a high wall, it being origi- nally a standard and unproductive. A second tree moved was a Pmus ponderosa, 45 feet in height, with the circumference of the stem 3 feet 10 inches. This tree required nine strong horses to remove it to its place. The largest holly transplanted was 40 feet in height, with three stems 6 feet 1 1 inches in circumference. This tree was brought from a planta- tion some distance off", the weight of the ball and tree being above 8 tons. Immense numbers of large trees were transplanted here in 1857, '58 and '59. The largest had a stem 4 feet 10 inches in circumference, and of the branches 84 feet. Quantities of Cedars of Lebanon were brought from plantations some distance oflf, the largest being 30 feet high, and the circumference of the stem 3 feet 3 inches. Some large red cedars were transplanted this spring, but to be successful with large trees requires great caution. The trees were prepared ihe year before by cutting the large roots to induce them to make fibres, so as to get the ball of earth to hold together. The largest tree shifted here was 32 feet in height, and the circumference of the stem 5 feet 7 inches. About 23 large arbor-vitses were transplanted, but they are easy and safe trees to shift, being so fibrous-rooted. The largest tree shifted here was DECEMBER. 561 25 feet in height, and the circumference of the stem 4 feel 8 inches, and of thft branches 49 feet; a large weeping ash 30 feet high, the circumference of the stem 3 feet 6 inches ; a Cedrus Deodara, grafted on the Cedar of Lebanon, 30 feet high, circumference of stem 2 feet 6 inches. Numbers of large hemlock spruce were shifted here in 1857, but with less success than any of the other evergreens, owing to their being planted in an exposed situation. I find they will not bear any windy place after being grown in sheltered situations. As a lawn plant, the hemlock spruce is one of the most graceful evergreens known, but it must be sheltered by other trees and in a damp situation. — (Gard. Chron.) New Roses. — Of now comparatively well-known varieties none were more striking than Lord Raglan, a brilliant scarlet, large and double. This is said to have been raised from seeds saved from Gennt des Batailles; but its flowers are higher colored, and even more dazzling than those of that variety. Of that glowing rose, General Jacqueminot, the majority of its blooms are more double this year than usual, and on the Manetti stock they are said to be even more so than on the briar. The Manetti also is said to throw unusual vigor into the charming Tea rose, Gloire de Dijon, and others of that class. This stock, for some kinds of roses, is thejefore a favorite here. Souvenir de Leveson Gower, crimson, very double, and possessing a beautiful rose scent, is a variety which all must admire, and cannot be too largely grown, and of the glorious .Jules Margottin too much cannot be said. It is incomparably the finest rose of its color, producing its magnificent tlowers in the greatest possible abundance. Adelaide Fontaine, deep pink, with a form not unlike that of Louise Peyronnet, is a handsome variety, which must become a favorite; Bacchus is a crimson kind, beautifully cup- ped, which deserves to be better known than it is; Caroline de Sansalles, pale blush, very large and double, is a showy and excellent kind ; Comte de Nanteuil is deep rose, large and full, and nearly equal in form to Coupe d H^.b6 ; Docteur Rushpler, rich deep rose, large and double, looked as if it would make an excellent show rose — it is one of the few hybrid perpetuals which grows sufficiently strong to make a good pillar rose; Duchess of Norfolk, a rich crimson, nearly spineless, has bloomed beautifully this sea- son; Duke of Cambridge, bright rose, appears to be an improvement on Madame Fremion — it cannot, therefore, fail to be a favorite ; Eveque de Nimes, deep vivid crinson, with petals charmingly disposed in the form of a rosette, is certainly a first-class variety, and may be regarded as an acqui- sition in its class. Scarcely less beautiful, though in a different way, is General Brea, a rich deep pink, with large full flowers ; General Simpson, too, a bright carmine, with something of the look and form of Louise Odier, is also a promising rose ; Lord Palmerston, light crimson, is a variety of good shape, and will doubtless be a favorite ; and of Madame Masson too much can hardly be said ; its doubleness and deep purplish crimson color must ensure it a place in every collection : Mad'lle Alice Leroy, delicate pink, is a good addition to its class, and so is Mathurin Regnier, a valuable sort in the way of Wm. Griffiths : Monsieur de Montigny, Queen of Den^ VOL. XXV. — NO. XIL 36 562 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mark, and Thomas Rivers, complete our selection from among the newer kinds of hybrid perpetuals. The last is in the way of, but a decided ini- provement on. Col. Foisey, being larger and in other respects superior to that variety. Of delicate pink hybrid perpetuals, none surpassed Mrs. Rivers and Madame Vldot, both of which are excellent in shape, free flowering, and truly beautiful. — {Gard. Chron.) Wounds in Fruits. — M. Galfin, a gardener at Nantes, uses cuUodion to cover the wounds in fruits that have been bitten or wounded by insects or otherwise, and that are beginning to spread in a state of decay. For this purpose he scrapes away carefully, with a silver life, all the injured part, and then gently paints the place with cullodion, applied with a camel's hair pencil. He assures us that the decay of injured fruit is thus effectually arrested. Cullodion, which is mere gun cotton dissolved in ether, may be prepared in the following manner: — Put into a glass or porcelain vessel 150 grammes of sulphuric acid, and 75 grammes of saltpetre reduced to powder ; stir the mixture with a glass rod, and, when it is cold, add little by little five grammes of cotton wool. At the end of quarter of an hour, the cotton is taken out and washed in plenty of water till tliere is not the slightest trace of an acid taste. It is then dried on blotting paper in the sun, and after- wards dissolved in a well-stopped bottle, in a mixture of 50 grammes of ether and 5 grammes of alcohol. This solution is what is called cullodion. ( Revue Horlicole ) Destroying the Transparency of Glass. — An amateur, wishing to destroy the transparency of the glass roof of his greenhouse, hit upon the following plan : — He melted a tallow candle over a gentl o fire, poured the liquid grease into a pot, and let it stand till it became unctuous — neither loo soft nor too hard. On a warm day, when the condensation on the glass was all dried up, he smeared the glass in the inside with the grease, applied by a cotton dabber. He rubbed and daubed the glass until he brought the grease to a uniform surface. After which, he gently passed the same dab- ber of cotton anew over the glass perpendicularly, which gave the glass the appearance of being furrowed. The roof thus prepared, so completely prevented the direct rays of the sun from passing, that nothing in the inside could be seen from the outside, although when, in the inside, the light was clear and bright without the least glare. We are assured that this is an effectual prevention of all burning or scorching, which so much disfigures plants kept under glass in summer. — [Revue Horticole.) Dahlias of 1859 — The great Dahlia show of the present year was held at the Crystal Palace on the 7th of September, when there was a mag- nificent display from all the principal professional and amateur cultivators. The awards of the judges were as follows : — Best 50 Blooms. To Mr. C. Turner, for Robt. Bruce, Seedling, Flower of the Day, Pioneer, Commander, Sir Jos. Paxton, Sidney Herbert, Mid- ni^t, Mrs. Church, Flirt, Seedling, Constancy, Deutche Weirde, Duchess DECEMBER. 563 of Kent, Mentor, Chairman, Triomphe de Pecq, 3 Seedlings, Preeminent, Hon. Mrs. Norton, Emperor, Col. Wyndham, Enchantress, Seedling, Mies Watts, Bravo, Goldfinder, Mr. Chas. Waters, Seedling, Disraeli, Lady Popham, King, Standard Bearer, Cherub, Adam Bede, Yellow Beauty, Purple Standard, Miss H. Vyse, Lollepop, Lord Palmerston, Lndy Frank- lin, Miss Presslcy, Touchstone, Seedling, Lord Eversley, Seedling, Lady Taunton, and Ge6rge Elliott. Best 24 Blooms. To Rev. C. Fellows, for Preeminent, Wallace, Misa Caroline, Touchstone, Miss Watts, Satirist, Lord Palmerston, Rosebud, Pandora, Chairman. Duchess of Malburgh, Fanny Keynes, Deutche Weirde, Mentor, Golden Drop, Robert Bruce, Standard Bearer, Lady Franklin, Goldfinder, Empress, Dr. Gully, Lady Popham, Mr. Critchett, Purple Standard. Best 12 Fancy Dahlias. To Mr. C. Turner, for Ethel, Tiger, Elizabeth, Pluto, Madame Alboni, Butterfly, Comus, Jessie, The Flirt, Duchesse de Brabant, Queen Mab, Chas. Perry. Second best, to Rev. C. Fellowes, for Souter Johnny, Madame Alboni, Charles Perry, Triomphe de Roubaix, Countess of Bective, The Flirt, Ju- piter, Oliver Twist, Jessie, Conqueror, Marc Antony, Elizabeth. The National Dahlia Show was held at Birmingham, Sept. 20th, when there was a splendid display of flowers. Messrs. Turner and Fellowes again took the first prizes in the respective classes of 50 and 24 blooms, with nearly the same flowers as at the Crystal Palace. 6ossip of tl^e Pontlj, Prince's Catalogue of Grapes, for 18G0, enumerates and describes one hundred and eighty-one varieties, many of which are entirely new — at least to us. What portion of these are of real merit, we are unable to say ; but if one quarter of them, we then have nearly fifty fine varieties of hardy grapes. Among the number is one called Ureka, (Prince's,) said *' not only to surpass all natives, but is superior in sprightliness and flavor to any of the Chasselas varieties." Mr. Prince considers the Delaware a Swiss grape, and classes it among the foreign varieties. The Hon. Mr. Cabot, of Salem, recently sailed for Europe, intending to visit, during his absence, all the principal nurserymen and fruit cultiva- tors on the Continent. The results of his tour we hope to have the pleasure of giving to our readers upon his return next summer. Cultivators of the pear may anticipate much interesting information, as he will make this a specialty of his observations. The Concord Grape in Cincinnati. — Gen. Wade exhibited the Con- cord before the Cincinnati Horticultural Society Aug. 27th, and the com- 564 THE MAGAZINE OF HORTICULTURE. mittee report — " Handsome full bunches, scarcely ripe. This variety is certainly improving in quality as the vines acquire age. The General de- Bcribes it as an enormous bearer. The committee think that some allowance must be made for the present favorable season, but it is said by Dr. Whip- ple to have shown no signs of rot." — [Cincinnatus ) The Hubbard Squash appears to give entire satisfaction to all who have tried it. Messrs. Cooley and Brothers of Manchester, Adams Co., Ohio, write to Messrs. Hovey & Co., that "the lot of Hubbard squash seed which they received from them have done well. Our folks prefer them to the best sweet potatoes. To-day we weighed three of the 'Hubbards;' one weighed twenty-five pounds, one twenty six, and the other thirty and a half pounds. Can you beat that in Yankeedom ?'^ [We think not. The usual weight here is from ten to fifteen pounds. We need the rich soil of Ohio to equal such a product as the above. Ed.] Pruning the Grape. — Gen. Wade, of Ohio, stated to the Cincinnati Horticultural Society that he had made an experiment in pruning the grape. On one vine thirty feet high the fruit did not turn out well at all, and had ripened irregularly and imperfectly ; on those on stakes pruned to three eyes, and managed on the general vineyard system, they had ripened fully, regularly and perfectly. — [Cincinnatus.) PHssitcjjiisctts IJorticuItnrnI Soritt^. Saturday, JVbv. 5. — An adjourned meeting of the Society was held to- day— the President in the chair. A communication in reference to the sale of the Society's Hall Avas re- ferred to the Executive and Finance Committees, to report at the adjourned meeting. Mr. E. S. Rand, Jr., was subsequently addt d to the Committee. A Committee was appointed to consider the propriety of purchasing a set of white ware for the use of the Society — and the President, S. Walker, B. V. French, J. F. C. Hyde, Capt. Austin, E. S. Rand, Jr., and D. T. Curtis were chosen. The Chairmen of the Committees on Flowers and Fruits were appointed a Committee to consider the propriety of changing the time of the weekly exhibitions from Saturday to Wednesday. The following members were elected : — Asa Clement, Dracut ; George Greig, Brighton; J. Warren Merrill and Hervey Davis, CamGridgeport ; A. P. Penniman, Waltham ; John Kelly, Watertown ; A. Mason, N. C. Sawyer, Rufus B. Stickney, and John Poor. [The following members were elected at the last two meetings : — Gard- ner Chilson, F. Parkman, E. C. Bailey, S. S. Bradlee, George A. Mudge, DECEMBER. 565 J. M. Barnard, J. T. Cruikshank, Epes Sargent, E, Roberts, J. B. Taft, G. W. Chandler.] AWARD OF PREMIUMS FOR FRUITS. Plums. — For the best, to H. Vandine, twenty varieties, $i. For the next, to W. Bacon, for Columbia, $3. For the next, to F. Dana, for Jefferson, $'2. Grapes, (Foreign.) — For the best, to R. S. Rogers, $8. For the next, to George Nichols, $6. For the next, to E. S. Rand, for Black Hamburgh, $4. (Native.) — For the best, to E. A. Brackett, for Concord, $6. For the next, to G. B. Cutter, for Isabella and Concord, $.5. For the next, to C. E. Grant, for Isabella and Catawba, $4. For the next, to F. Dana, for Diana, $3. For the next, to A. Bullard, for Isabella, $2. Melons. — For the best, to J. Crosby, $3. JVbv. 12th. — An adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. There being no business before the meeting, it was adjourned one week to Nov. 19. JVbv. I9th. — An«adjourned meeting — the President in the chair. The Committee, to whom was referred the matter of selling the Society's building, had further time to report. Adjourned two weeks to Dec. 3. Exhibited. — Flowers : From Hovey & Co.. cut flowers of the beautiful and rare Thunbergia laurifolia, Thibaiidia pulchra, and the four new Bou- vardias, Oriana, Rosalinda, Laura and Hogarth, all free flowering varieties of this eminently splendid tribe of plants, blooming all winter. From W. C. Strong, a pretty plant of Marquis of Bristol fuchsia, double, with rich violet purple petals. ©Htnarj, Death of Thomas Nuttall. — This eminent botanist and naturalist died at his residence, Nutgrove, Rainhill, near Boston, Lancashire, on the 10th of September, at the age of 73. Mr. Nuttall was well known in this country, having been professor at Harvard College for several years, during which period it was our good fortune to enjoy his acquaintance. He rendered great service to American Botany and Ornithology. He came to this country about the time that Michaux left it, and, travelling through Arkansas, Oregon, and Upper California, on his return published a volume upon the Botany of the route. He also completed tlie work of Michaux, by adding three volumes, describing all the principal trees and shrubs of North America. He also published two volumes upon the Ornithology of the United States and Canada, a rare and highly valuable work. As Pro- fessor of Botany, of Cambridge, he was known to students from all parts of the Union. Some years since, a relative bequeathed to him a fine estate 566 THE MAGAZINE OP HORTICULTURE. in England, on condition that he should reside upon it six months of each year. This he continued to do, — with one exception, when he made a short trip to America, — employing his time in botanical pursuits, occasion- ally contributing to the botanical periodicals, and latterly deeply engaged in raising Rhododendrons, both species and hybrids, from seeds and plants introduced by his nephew, Mr. Booth, from the Bhotan Mountains, so many of which have been described in our pnges. The well known R. Nuttallu will commemorate his name and services as long as plants shall be culti- vated in our gardens. We shall look for some extended notice of his life by some of the friends who knew him so well during his sojourn in this country. Quiet and unobtrusive in his manners, simple in his wants, en- thusiastic in his devotion to botanical pursuits, he was loved and esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances, who will deeply lament his death. Death of Professor Henfrey. — This eminent botanist, a Fellow of the Royal and Linnsean Societies, and Professor of Botany at King's Col- lege, &c., died at his residence, Turnham Green, on the 7th of September. Prof. Henfrey has long been known as an excellent histologist and sound vegetable physiologist. His late work, entitled an Elementary Course of Botany, has been regarded as a production of great merit. In private life he was endeared to his friends by the gentleness of his manners and the genuine kindness of his nature. He died in the 39th year of his age. Dr. Horsfield, a native of Pennsylvania, but passing the active portion of his life in the service of the East India Company, recently died at the age of 86. His scientific collections were made in Java. Mr. Wm. M'Cullough, well known as one of the old school gardeners, died at his residence in South Boston the early part of November. Mr. M'Cullough was, after having faithfully served as gardener to several gen- tlemen around Boston, engaged in the growth of plants and flowers for sale, in which he continued for fifteen or twenty years, but declining health in- duced him to give up his business. His skill as a cultivator is well known among all the amateurs in this vicinity, Avhile his character as a citizen gained him numerous friends. Died, at his residence at Union Springs, Cayuga Co., N. Y., on the 5th of November, David Thomas, in the 84th year of his age. Few persons are more widely known among the cultivators of this country than David Thomas, he having been a contributor to the various agricultural and horti- cultural periodicals from time to time since the publication of the oldest of them all, the American Farmer. The Country Gentleman, in a notice of his death, remarks that he was the first to welcome the establishment of the Genesee Farmer, by Mr. Tucker, and was ever after one of its most con- stant and effective supporters. " As a chief engineer in charge of the original construction of the Erie Canal, David Thomas always proved himself a diligent superintendent of DECEMBER. 567 the State, according to the ideas of economy and integrity that once pre- vailed. Of a retiring disposition, however, he never sought for notoriety, and at an early day withdrew from public employment to his farm at Great- field. Here he labored and wrote in the cause of agriculture and horticul- ture. He was also a distinguished naturalist, and a member of the Horti- cultural Society of London, the Linnsean Society of Paris, and various associations in this country. This brief testimonial of appreciation and regard, and the expression of our cordial sympathies with his surviving relatives in their bereavement, is due alike to ourselves and to the worth and virtues of the departed." iarticultimil ©pcraticns FOR DECEMBER. FRUIT DEPARTMENT. November was a warmer month than October, and exceedingly favorable for garden work of all kinds. Dry and free from hard frosts, planting could be done, and work of all kinds completed. Grape Vines in the forcing-house should now be well under way, with the grapes swelling rapidly. Keep the laterals topped, and maintain a good brisk heat, with a moderate night temperature. Renew the covering to the border if the weather should be cold. Vines in greenhouses should be pruned and cleaned ready for work. Protect the border with a good cov- ering of strawy manure. Vines in pots may be brought into the house for early forcing. Give the same attention to hardy grapes as recommended in our last. Fruit Trees of all kinds should be well manured, which, at this season, answers the double purpose of protection from cold and enriches the soil. Strawberry Beds should be covered, if not already done. Currant Bushes may be pruned now ; it is the best season. Fruit Trees in pots should have the protection of a cellar or warm shed, where their roots will not be in danger of freezing. Trench and prepare ground intended for planting next spring. flower department. Though mild weather still continues, allowing the completion of much work, it cannot be expected after the advent of December. With the pro- tection of all such plants as require it, and the preparation of ground, — which may be continued till hard frost, — the out-door operations of the garden cease. In the houses, however, there is enough to do. As flowers are not yet abundant, the scarcity should be made up by a good arrange- ment of the most ornamenial-foliaged plants, and neatness in every part. Remove chrysanthemums and otlier plants out of bloom, and fill their place with others from spare frames, giving those remaining more room. Speci- 568 THE MAGAZINE OP HOETICULTURE. men plants in particular should not be crowded. Attend to the storing of soils for the winter, if not already done. Camellias will now begin to open their flowers; water rather freely, and syringe often in good weather. Now is the time to prune in straggling plants ; they bear the knife well, and recover speedily. Pelargoniums will need attention ; continue to repot the early flow- ering specimens this month ; keep the plants near the glass, air freely, keep cool, and water sparingly. Nothing so much injures this most beautiful of greenhouse plants as forcing them along with heat. Pinch off the tops of strong growing shoots. Cinerarias should be repotted if not already done. Calceolarias should be repotted. Keep near the glass. Azaleas should be kept cool and rather dry — look them over occasion- ally and pick off the decaying leaves. Monthly Carnations should be neatly staked up and placed in a rather warm situation pretty near the light. Water moderately, but not too often. Heaths should be kept in the coolest part of the house; water moder- ately. Epiphyllums, now in bloom, should be rather freely watered. Other cactuses should be kept dry. Roses, coming into bloom, should be freely watered. Those taken from the open ground may now be pruned and taken into the house. Cyclamens should be liberally watered. Japan Lilies, for blooming in the house next season, may now be pot- ted, placing them away in a frame or a cool place till they appear above the soil. Hyacinths, potted in October, may now be brought into the house to bloom. Chinese Primroses, now beginning to bloom, should have a half shady, warm location. Repot seedlings, and such plants as require it. Deutzias, Wf.igelias, and other plants for forcing, may now be brought into the house. Verbenas, Petunias, &c., raised from cuttings in September, should be potted off and placed on a shelf near the glass. Nemophilas should be potted off. Hollyhock seeds now sown, and the plants brought along in the house, will bloom next year. Cuttings of choice varieties should now be put in. Fuchsias, intended for large specimens in the spring, should now be repotted and encouraged in their growth. Chrysanthemums, done blooming, should be removed to a frame where they can be protected from severe frosts. OxALiSES, growing freely, may be repotted. Neapolitan Violets, potted in September and now brought into the house, will flower freely. Insects should be looked after. Fumigate for the green fly, and destroy the mealy bug by washing with warm soap and water. Protect frames of carnations and other flowers.