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PROCEEDINGS

OF THE

Ninth Annual Convention

OF THE

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLOW

HELD AT

ST. LOUIS, MO.,

August 9th, I oth, nth and 12th,

1893.

Published by Order of the Society.

BOSTON:

Daniel Gonn & Co., Printers, 31 Hawley Street.

1893.

WHSh,

LIBRARY

UNIVERSITY OF
MASS IJSETTS

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OFFICERS

OF THE

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLOEISTS.

For 1893.

President:

WM. R. SMITH, Washington,

D. C.

Vice-President :

WM. TRELEASE, St. Louis,

Mo.

Secretary :
WILLIAM J. STEWART, Boston, Mass.

Treasurer :
MYRON A. HUNT, Terre Haute, Ind.

Executive Committee :

For One Year.
W. A. Manda, Short Hills, N. J.
P. Welch, Boston, Mass.
H. W. Buckhee, Rockford, 111.

For Two Years.

C. W. Hoitt, Nashua, N. H.
J. H. Dunlop, Toronto, Out.
J. T. Anthony, Chicago, 111.

For Three Years.

Benj. Durfee, Washington, D. C. P. O'Mara, Jersey City, N. J.

H. B. Beatty, Oil City, Pa.

For 1894.

President :
J. T. ANTHONY, Chicago, III.

Vice-President :
ROBT. KIFT. Philadelphia, Pa.

Secretary :
WILLIAM J. STEWART, Boston, Mass.

Treasurer:
MYRON A. HUNT, Terre Haute, Ind.

Executive Committee
For One Year.

C. W. Hoitt, Nashua, N. H.
J. H. Dunlop, Toronto, Ont.
J. C. Vaughan, Chicago, 111.

For Two Years.

Benj. Durfee, Washington, D. C.
P. O'Mara, Jersey City, N. J.
H. B. Beatty, Oil City, Pa.

For Three Years.
Three members to be appointed by the President-elect, on January 1, 1894.

PROCEEDINGS.

Exposition Building,
St. Louis, August 9th, 1893.

The visitins; delegations assembled in Entertainment Hall of the
Exposition Building at the appointed hour for the opening session. The
attendance, though smaller than that of the first days of previous Con-
ventions, embraced a fair representation of all sections of the country,
and several distinguished visitors from abroad. The counter attraction
of the great World's Fair and the prolonged hot weather were assigned,
among other causes, for the absence of many of the familiar faces of
former years, but accessions to the membership present were made at
subsequent stages of the Convention. Chicago and other points within
easy reach of St. Louis were represented by comparatively full delega-
tions.

The decorations of the Convention Hall consisted of a floral display,
and the festooning of the galleries and walls with the national colors.
Clusters of roses, gladioli and palms encircled the platform, with the
stars and stripes conspicuous in the centre. The benches and wall
space of the exhibition rooms, in the front part of the building, were
occupied by the trade exhibit.

FORMAL GREETINGS AND THE RESPONSE.

Mr. J. M. Jordan, of the St. Louis Florists' Club, inaugurated the
proceedings by extending to the ladies and gentlemen of the Society of
American Florists, on behalf of the local club, a formal welcome to the
city of St. Louis. He continued : —

I hope that your stay with us will be pleasant and profitable. While
our numbers may be less than at our former meetings, still I see in the
upturned faces before me the intellect, the will and the physical ability
to accomplish great ends. I trust that our deliberations will be free and
full, that we shall advance another step upon the ladder of floriculture
and horticulture, and that this meeting may be one of much value and
pleasure to all of us.

I have no occasion to make a long speech, as we are here to do
business ; and I therefore introduce to this Convention one of our

6 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

representative citizens, a gentleman whose time is fully occupied by
official duties, and who has just left a number of visitors to come here and
speak to you for a few moments on the important subject before you,
our honored Mayor, Hon. Cyrus P. Walbridge, of St. Louis.

Mayor Walbridge here came forward and, when the applause
which greeted him had subsided, said : —

In looking at a beautiful flower I have often wondered how it was
possible for a single stem to take up from the soil and the air all the
various colors in that flower and deposit them in such systematic perfec-
tion. I have often asked myself, where is this switchman who tells the
purple where to go ; what signal does he make to the crimson or the blue
to take a certain track and stop at a certain place ; who is the general
manager of this perfect, complicated system which never makes a mis-
take and never finds an open switch ? [Applause.] Is there a florist
here who can tell me ? — is there a botanist here who can answer ? If
compelled to make a response I venture he would fall back upon the
answer of the father to his infant son who has reached the limit of
parental knowledge, and say, "God." [Applause.]

These representative men and women have not come here to listen
to speech-making. He must be presumptuous indeed who would attempt
to entertain with flowers of rhetoric the people whose lives are devoted
to the cultivation of the flowers of God ; I will not attempt it ; but a man
must be poor indeed in all the elements that make the man if he cannot
extend to such people a cordial welcome to the home of Henry Shaw.
This I do, my friends, and in the name of this city I bid you God-
speed ; I extend to you the freedom of her gates ; and I wish that you
may be successful iu your efforts to devise new and more effectual ways
to assist Nature in her endeavors to beautify the world. [Long con-
tinued applause.]

Mr. E. A. Seidewitz, of Baltimore, being called upon by Mr.
Jordan to respond, on behalf of the Society, to the address of welcome,
said : —

I hardly know what reply to make to the short and sweet words of
welcome just uttered. When, last year, we were invited to come to St.
Louis, we heard many objections. They told us, " St. Louis is hot."
If they had told us, " St. Louis is smoky," we would not have been dis-
appointed. But behind the dark smoke I have found brightness and
progress, a city such as it would do any man good to see.

There is another characteristic of St. Louis. Of all symbols of a
genuine welcome the hand-shake is the most significant; and when, this
morning, your chairman of exhibits (Mr. Michel) caught hold of my
hand and gave it a shake such as I never felt before, I knew that the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 7

greeting came from the heart. The hearty welcome from the Mayor of
the city has still further assured me that we have come among a truly
hospitable people. [Applause.]

We know we have entered a progressive city — one which, though it
has been in existence as a city for comparatively only a few years, has
earned a most enviable position. When we look around we see the
evidences of business enterprise at every step, and realize that we,
eastern people, have much to learn from our western brethren. As we
were crossing the great bridge last night, 1 felt that we were entering a
city famous for its industrial progress; and when I reflect that men like
Henry Shaw, of whom the Mayor has just spoken, have been natives of
St. Louis, I know that in this city the love of horticulture has been
cherished and stimulated. In view of these considerations, I recognize
that our Society, in its meeting here in a progressive town, ought to
make special progress in the work before it. [Applause.]

Mr. Seidewitz closed by expressing the thanks of the Society for the
cordial welcome extended by the Mayor.

the president's address.

Upon the close of the preliminary addresses, President Wm. R. Smith,
of Washington, D. C, came forward to the President's desk, and
assumed the duties of presiding officer. When quiet had been restored
after the tumult of applause which greeted his appearance, President
Smith delivered his address to the Society. He spoke as follows : —

Ladies and Gentlemen, Members of the Society of American Florists,
and Friends, — Custom makes it a duty for j^our President to make you
an address — a sort of President's Message, if you will. Well, then, first
let us congratulate ourselves, on this our ninth anniversary, as to our
healthy, vigorous condition, which the reports of your officers will show.

You will permit me to ask a question, asked, I know, at some previous
conventions, but of a different character from this one, however. What
are we here for? My answer is, we are here to increase and diffuse a
knowledge of ornamental horticulture, in all its various subdivisions,
among the sons and daughters of men. A higher mission hath no one.
To elevate the aesthetic soul of a people, to place before them things of
beauty, joys forever, as Keats has grandly phrased it. The occupation
is worthy of the intellect it has secured. The genius of a Thorpe, the
intellectual powers of Craig and Hill, the enthusiasm of May and
Jordan, the business tact of Norton and Dean, our predecessors in office,
would add lustre to any profession. There are many others, but time
will not permit us to mention them. As we look back through the short
vista of ten years, what noble men have left us to find their reward in a
higher evolved condition! The image and shadow makers receive due

b PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

praise and profit of which we grudge them not; but now the workmen
and artists who present to the mind's eye of the people the beautiful
reality — the thing itself — are they not entitled to more credit than they
have ever claimed ?

Ralph Waldo Emerson, one of America's greatest thinkers, says,
" Flowers were made for the service of the soul." What food for
thought there is in these words! We all know that there are many minds
so dull in the aesthetic part of their nature that, as Wadsworth says, "A
primrose by a river brim, a yellow primrose was to him, and it was
nothing more."

We once had occasion in our official capacity to escort a party of our
selected great men sent to Congress, through the conservatories at
Washington. One of them, a narrow utilitarian crank, wben he came
to the orchid house, said, " What are the darned things worth any-
how? " Our remark was, "My dear sir, if the Great Architect of the
universe had been studying economy when he made you, He would have
put you on four feet and fed you on grass." My friend, James A. McKen-
zie, of Kentucky, then in Congress, now our minister to Peru, carried
the joke somewbat further, but we will leave that to the imagination.
We have but little sympathy with the purely utilitarian school. We pity
those who live but to eat, but glory in those who eat to live, and find
their soul's food in the beauty of the daisy and the heather, the sham-
rock and the rose, the chrysanthemum and the carnation, the lily and
the orchid; not that the latter should be behind bars, as was suggested
at a previous meeting, unless it is a silver or even a golden bar to confine
it on the breast of beauty's self — lovely woman.

Buckle says in his " Influence of Women on the Progress of
Knowledge :"

" That women, by encouraging in men deductive habits of thought,
have rendered an immense though unconscious service to the progress
of knowledge, by preventing scientific investigators from being as ex-
clusively inductive as they would otherwise be."

He also says, farther on : " Those among you who are interested in
botany are aware that the highest morphological generalization we pos-
sess respecting plants is the great law of metamorphosis, according to
which the stamens, pistils, corollas, bracts, petals, and so forth, various
parts of every plant, are simply modified leaves. It is now known that
these various parts — different in shape, different in color, and different
in function — are successive stages of the leaf-epochs, as it were, of its
history. The question naturally arises, who made this discovery ? Was
it some inductive investigator who had spent years in experiments and
minute observations of plants, and who with indefatigable industry, had
collected them, classified them, given them hard names, dried them, laid
them up in his herbarium, that he might at leisure study their structure
and rise to their laws ? Not so. The discovery was made by Goethe, the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. $

greatest poet Germany has produced, and one of the greatest the world
has ever seen. And he made it, not in spite of being a poet, but because
he was a poet. It was his brilliant imagination, his passion for beauty,
and his exquisite conception of form, which supplied him with ideas,
from which, reasoning deductively, he arrived at conclusions by descent.
not hy ascent. When the discovery was announced by Goethe, the botan-
ists not only rejected it, but were filled with wrath at the notion of a poet
invading their territory. What! a man who made verses and wrote
plays, a mere man of imagination, a poor creature who knew nothing of
facts, who had not even used the microscope, who had made no great
experiments on the growth of plants, was he to enter the sacred pre-
cincts of physical science, and give himself out as a philosopher? It
was too absurd. But Goethe, who had thrown his idea upon the world,
could afford to wait and abide his time."

The transmutation of parts, as indicated in the foregoing extract,
tells us how, and by what means, Madam Nature rewards Madam In-
dustry with those double flowers which fill with delight all lovers of the
beautiful.

We are fortunate in having selected as our place of meeting the
city of St. Louis — a city adopted as his home, many years ago, by a
}roung Englishman who, by patient, honest industry, guided by good
judgment, gathered a handsome fortune in its midst. He, with patriotic
ardor, intelligence, and gratitude in his heart, selected this city for the
establishment and liberal endowment of the Missouri Botanic Garden.
It is hoped men of means in other cities will follow his illustrious
example. When deliberating on the matter he called to his council two
great men of whom this country will always be proud — Prof. Spencer
F. Baird, of the Smithsonian Institution, and Dr. Asa Gray, of Cam-
bridge, Mass. It was my privilege to share their friendship for nearly
forty years. Words fail me to express my exalted opinion of them both.
Among other good advice given Mr. Shaw, they recommended Prof.
Trelease as director, and I am satisfied from what I have seen that our
kind, genial Vice-President, is the right man in the right place.

" If departed ghosts are e'er permitted to review the world," Mr.
Shaw will be at the Tower Grove on Thursday next, and return delighted
to that heaven where the spirits go " that love their fellow-men."

An erudite and extra well read friend of mine says, " It is written
in the books that next to the Christian religion the study of the vegetable
kingdom has done more, and is calculated to do more for the civiliza-
tion of mankind than any other pursuit of knowledge." By a little use
of the imagination, viewing the subject in its various corelations, we
can better appreciate the value of Mr. Shaw's great gift to the people of
Missouri — and to the world for that matter.

One of the rulers in Rome, just before the advent of Christ, asked
Virgil to write a poem to make agriculture popular — hence, the
Georgics.

10 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION

Every thinking ruler everywhere since has desired the same thing.
We have a suggestion to make on this subject, viz: remove the compost
heap from the front 3'ard; introduce in its stead a little ornamental hor-
ticulture. Feed the resthetic nature of the inmates of your home. Your
brightest boys and girls will not be so anxious to leave it if the nobler part
of their nature is fed. If they do leave home, they will have the fondest
recollection of their earlier days, and in all probability will return to rural
pursuits in the afternoon of life. The child that smiles so sweetly on
its mother's knee, becomes a picture of delight as you offer it a flower;
the urchin on the street who begs one shows the latent love for the
beautiful, which, alas! is too often neglected. How much of this is due
to heredity, how much is innate, we leave to Dalton and other scientists
to determine.

I presume most of you have read the able essay of Mr. Farquhar,
in our last year's report, about missionary work among children. We
sometimes hear of a glut in the flower market. We would like to suggest
that flowers be given to the children and the hospitals — to those who
can't buy, rather tban to those who won't.

We had hoped and fully expected to conduct this meeting under the
inspiriting influence and guidance of a national charter, but " the best
laid schemes o' mice and men gang aft aglee." With a unanimous vote
in the United States Senate, and many of the ablest men in that body
taking a warm, kindly interest in its passage; with the chairman of the
Committee on Agriculture, to whom the bill was referred by the House,
actively and earnestly trying in every way to pass it, backed by his com-
mittee, it nevertheless failed. This Society is under a deep debt of
gratitude to Representative Wm. H. Hatch, of this great state, for his
untiring efforts in our behalf. It is only a question of time, however,
before we have a charter, and necessary arrangements for the change to
a chartered society must be made at this meeting. A few statistics will
show how important an industry the Society represents.

The census report for 1891 shows that there are 4,659 flora, estab-
lishments in the United States, employing 16,817 men and 1,958 women.
There are 1,323 floral societies, florist clubs and horticultural societies in
the various states and territories of the Union. Their fuel costs over
$1,000,000; their advertising about the same — that is, independent of
catalogues; they pay for postage $767,438.21; for freight and expressage
81,088,612.41. The sales of cut flowers, hardy shrubs, roses and other
miscellaneous ornamental plants amount to $26,211,805.77. It is safe to
say there is an increase of twenty per cent, on the above figures since
then. The report prepared by J. H. Hale for the Census Office has
many other interesting items on the subject of commercial floriculture.
It does full justice to the Society of American Florists. We made
application to the State and Treasury Departments at Washington
for correct information as to imports. While acknowledging the kind

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 11

courtesies of the officers of both departments, owing to imperfect classi-
fication of subjects, no proper division being made between ornamental
and useful articles, we nevertheless got enough to make the statement
that we send to the Netherlands, Germany, England, France, Belgium
and Bermuda over $1,750,372.00 for bulbs, plants and seeds. It becomes
a question for every patriotic American to consider how much of this
sum can we retain on this side of the Atlantic. We seek no special pro-
tection. Intellect and industry with cheap land as against cheap labor
should be our agents. This Society, socially, and by the aid of printer's
ink, diffusing proper information as to what is wanted and how to grow
it, will soon secure the desired result. California has already taken up
the subject of producing such seeds, bulbs and plants as her climate is
suitable for. On Long Island, in the state of New York, we saw, two
weeks ago, on one estate alone, ninety acres of fine, healthy gladiolus —
millions of bulbs. To the Long Island florists, we are told, is due the
credit that the gladiolus has been changed from an import to an export
item of trade. Ten years ago they were all imported. Their price has
been reduced to $10 per thousand. I am told by experts that many
millions of tuberose bulbs are grown in North Carolina and several other
southern states for domestic and export business. A few years ago they
were all imported, their price $10 per thousand. I would like to call
the attention of growers to the millions of Roman hyacinths used, and
ask, can't they be grown somewhere on this side of the Atlantic ?

The character of the buildings erected is another evidence of the
progress of floriculture. A leading firm has informed me that they have
erected forty ranges of greenhouses during the last twelve months, em-
bracing 250,000 square feet of glass surface.

I would earnestly recommend a committee on statistics be formed,
to consist of five or more members, and that each state vice-president
be ez-officio a member of the same. The value of such a committee
cannot be over-estimated. A high official in the State Department made
the suggestion that we prepare a set of interrogatories, and they will
send them to our consuls for the much needed correct information as to
what we purchase abroad. Your committee could do this and gather
other valuable statistical information, particularly as to the general
progress of the profession, etc. Your committee on nomenclature has
been of great advantage to the trade; it has greatly purified the cata-
logues; its very existence has a beneficial result. "A chiel's amang ye
takin' notes, and, faith, he'll prent them," acts as a deterrent to many
an exaggerated description.

A word about chrysanthemums. Whether the society of that name
should be an allied but separate organization or a section of the chartered
Society of American Florists should receive your thoughtful, serious
consideration. The society has done wonders. When Mr. Thorpe
wrote me a friendly letter, about nine years ago, telling me in his usual

12 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

enthusiastic way, that the chrysanthemum was, as he styled it, " the
coming flower," I was a doubting Thomas, continuing 4so for some
years, until I saw at Madison Square Garden a vase with six flowers
of Ivory. My enthusiasm led me to visit that vase again and again, with
friends and without them. I invited Mr. Win. K. Harris, not then but
now president of the Chrysanthemum Society, to take a look at it, when
he, blushing modestly, informed me that he was the raiser of it; that it
was his child. Never will the memory of that beautiful vase pass from
me; it will forever be a day-dream.

We all like to ask questions, as witness our question-box. Is it not
possible to reduce the long list of chrysanthemums? Say, by dropping
some no longer near the standard and those so near alike that they are
hardly entitled to a separate name. This is simply a suggestion. Think
of these things. We would like to make the same suggestion to the
newly formed Carnation Society. Make every effort to keep your list as
shorl as possible. Whether you form yourself into a separate allied
association or become a section of our chartered Society, it is our
duty to help you, our little infant, along; you are a child of great
promise.

For the Hail Association we would like to say a word. It has had
lively agents in the shape of large hailstones, doing sad work amongst
plants and glass lately. Such as are not insured should consider the
subject. You will learn all about the Florists' Protective Association
from the address on that subject to be delivered at this meeting.

. We are under great obligation to the press of the country, especially
those who disseminate correct information on our topics. To them we
make a polite bow, and say, thank you. To the papers connected with
the trade and those devoted to ornamental horticulture in its various
departments, we would say, God speed you; may you live long and
prosper.

We come now to the subject of subjects at present engrossing public
attention — the World's Fair, now being held in an adjoining city. Not
having been there yet, I cannot speak of nry own knowledge, but I have
an abiding faith in the skill and ingenuity of Mr. Thorpe.

Mr. Craig, than whom there is no better judge, says:

" The directors of the Exhibition showed a just appreciation of the im-
portance of decorative horiculture when they provided the magnificent
building known as Horticultural Hall, which with the 'Wooded Island,'
has been a source of the greatest interest and delight to the throngs of
visitors; no part of the great Exhibition has been more constantly
crowded, and every feature has been enjoyed. First, the chrysanthe-
mums, last fall; then the winter months, when the other departments
were almost desolate, were cheered with grand displays of primulas, cy-
clamens, cinerarias, calceolarias, etc., etc., in rapid succession, and the
interest will continue until the Queen of Autumn again presides over the
closing festivities. "

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 13

I have said nothing as yet about the great work our Society has done
since its organization. As artists and cultivators the florist of today is so
superior in most things to ten years ago that the only comparison I can
rind is as light is to darkness. Were [ to go back forty years and describe
the bouquet, flowers lashed to a stick — next came broom straws, paper
frills, toothpicks, etc., — how all this change came about would take too
long to tell. We can only say, I think, the peculiar people living in
Boston had something to do with it. Today the artistic presentation of
flowers to customers receives the most careful study. The men in the
advance on this subject have, by pen and pencil in the horticultural press,
rendered great service to art in its highest sense. All over the country
this change has taken place. It is partly — I may say chiefly — due to
the annual gathering of the Society of American Florists. Such mem-
bers as stay at home thinking they get all in the report, are very much
mistaken.

The intellectual side dishes are rich and rare — the opportunity to
glean ideas from intelligent men on the excursion who would shrink from
writing an essay; the aside discussion of the subject up for debate; the
grand opportunity to see face to face those you deal with, whose books
or articles you read from time to time. An old adage quoted by President
Craig in his Chicago address I will repeat: t- When you go from home
you go to school." He adds, "Those who travel with open eyes can
always learn something." What visitor to the Philadelphia meeting but
recalls with pleasure his trip to the beautiful home of Mr. Childs at
Wootton. How many artistic asides, what valuable cultural imformation
from his gardener was quietly obtained — about caladium, for instance.
In their cultivation he has no superior. At Chicago, sickness prevented
my attendance; but the visit to the parks there, I have no doubt, proved
instructive. At New York our sail up the beautiful, majestic Hudson
gave us a grand opportunity to study nature, and human nature, in
various moods and aspects. The parks of Buffalo and the visit with con-
genial friends to the indescribable grandeur of Niagara will never be
forgot while memory lasts. At Boston the two exhibitions were simply
grand. I doubt if ever before in this country, and not often in any
other, has there been seen such a rare, interesting and instructive col-
lection of plants exhibited. The trip to Mr. Huunewell's place at
Wellesley to examine the ornamental horicultural wealth of that unique
home, its owner, a landscape artist and botanist, acting as guide to all
interested to his rare treasures; the gardener Mr. Harris, a cultivator of
rare ability, ever willing to tell you all he knows about plants and
their cultivation. At Toronto the stay-at-home missed a good time and
the opportunity to see many interesting places and a beautiful city. At
Washington, I will not say much about what they missed, except one
thing — the opportunity to study landscape gardening as practiced during
the latter part of last century by Gen. Washington at his home, Mount

14 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION

Vernon; the list of his books on this subject, and the place itself, the
list of trees and shrubs he ordered from Bartram's nurseries, all show
that that subject received studious attention from that great man.

I have perhaps, said enough to the stay-at-homes to induce them to
change their mind in the future. To the young men of the profession, I
would say, never miss this golden opportunity to measure yourself. Self-
examination is a grand improver of the mind; confess one to another;
seek as companions those that will improve you or be improved by
you; enjoy the feast of reason and flow of soul these occasions always
present. They are red-letter times in my memory, devoted, as I have
been, from childhood's early days to my profession. I never come to our
meetings without great benetit. This age of specialists makes it espec-
ially an age of progress. The orchid, the rose, the palm, the fern, and
the many other plants and flowers that have been made specialties of by
many different men, all mingling together on these occasions, presents
an opportunity for improvement for young and old that I, for one, would
dislike to lose. I love my occupation. I think no one should engage
in it who does not. It is, as I have said before, one of the grandest
pursuits on earth.

The occasional sneer of gilt edge mediocrity that "he is only a
gardener," has been grandly answered by a gardener's son, my prophet,
priest and king — Robert Burns — in his glorious declaration of
independence. That

"The rank is but the guinea-stamp —
The man's the gowd for a' that.

The honest man, though e'er sae puir,
Is king o' men for a' that.

Then let us pray, that come it may,

As come it will, for a' that,
That sense and worth o'er a' the earth,
May bear the gree, and a' that."

Young men, look to it. You have a grand, elevating, and ennobling
profession. You can aid in " preserving the dignity of man with soul
erect."

The American gardener of the future, if manly in his character, wdl
stand up a " Triton among the minnows," engaged in preparing the
soul of the people for that higher evolution where hope points to eternal
bliss and happiness. It shall soon cease to be the boast that ancestors
were successful robbers or butchers of men, but that the glory of our an-
cestorial tree, past, present, and future, will be that we advanced the love
for the beautiful. Our creed is, " This world is full of beauty, as other

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 15

worlds above ; O, if man would do his duty and fill it full of love," then
would come the millennial period, when, in the words of the grand poet-
prophet, Isaiah, " They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their
spears into pruning-hooks; nations shall not lift swords against nations,
neither shall they learn war any more."

When beauty, love, and truth are the supreme rulers, then this earth
will be an Eden.

The President's Address, throughout its delivery, commanded the
respectful attention of the Convention; many of its suggestions being
followed by applause which, at the close, was renewed and continued
for some moments.

REPORTS OF THE SECRETARY AND TREASURER.

The first business in order, according to the printed program, was
the presentation of reports of officers.

Secretary William J. Stewart, responding to the call of the chair,
presented and read his annual report. It was as follows: —

secretary's report.

Mr. President and Members, — The eighth annual Convention of the
Society of American Florists, which was held at Washington one year
ago, was one of the most satisfactory and, in many respects, the most
notable on record.

A location so convenient to the great horticultural centres, together
with the numerous attractions to be found in the Capitol City, formed a
combination which would naturally draw together a large number of
visitors, but might hardly be expected to ensure a good attendance at
the sessions; in fact, the reverse might reasonably be looked for. So it is
gratifying to record that notwithstanding the multitude of attractions
offered by the city of Washington itself, and provided through the
generosity of our hospitable hosts, the National Gardeners' Club, the
sessions were the largest and most uniformly attended in the Society's
history. The essays were all good, and the various subjects were dis-
cussed with intelligence and ability, as a perusal of the published report
will show. The trade exhibit was the first since the adoption of the new
regulations, the value of which was apparent in the completeness of the
arrangements and the absence of all dissatisfaction. Twenty-one certi-
ficates of merit were awarded by the judges. One each by the com-
mittees on bulbs and seeds and on florists' supplies; two for mechanical
appliances; four by the cut flower committee; six by the plant com-
mittee and seven for miscellaneous exhibits.

The Executive Committee held its annual meeting in this city last
January, when many matters pertaining to the welfare of the Society
were considered and the general plan for this Convention mapped out.

10 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

The finances were found to be in good shape, and the general condition
of the Society prosperous. The extent to which the so-called auxiliary
societies should be accorded participation in our sessions was considered
at length, and in response to what seemed to be the general desire, the
new departure indicated in our program for this meeting, was adopted
as an experiment. Two important special committees that will make
their report at this Convention, have been doing active work, and the
arrangement effected by one of them especially, — the committee on
express rates on plants, etc., — is regarded by many as among the most
valuable services rendered to the trade in general by the Society of
American Florists.

The number of members paying dues for 1892 was 829, of which
number, 174 were new accessions, and 22 were former members reinstated
on payment of arrears. The new members are credited as follows : —
to California, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, Maine, Tennessee, Vermont,
West Virginia. (Juebec and Japan, one each; Connecticut, Kentucky,
Ontario and Bermuda, two each; North Carolina and Wisconsin, three
each; Iowa, four; Illinois and Indiana, five each; Missouri, six; Vir-
ginia, seven; New Jersey, eight; Ohio, nine; District of Columbia and
Massachusetts, eleven each; Maryland, twenty; New York, twenty-six;
Pennsylvania, thirty-eight.

We have lost four members by death since our last meeting.

E. N. McLaughlin, of Boston, died April 1st, 1893; Lucius T. Peck,
of Boston, April 10th, 1893; Thomas Lawrence, of Ogdensburg, New
York, June 27th, 1893; and J. Enos Dickerman, of Calais, Maine, July
17th, 1893.

It is sad to lose even one of our members by death. But in view of
the average annual death rate in an organization as large as this, we
have cause for congratulation and thankfulness that our loss during the
past year has been numerically so small. Let us hope that a kind Provi-
dence will continue to so favor us, and permit us to enjoy for many
years to come, the pleasure of meeting the old familiar faces and ex-
changing; those fraternal arreetino-g which have come to mean so much to
us in these annual gatherings.

treasurer's report.

The Treasurer of the Society, Mr. Myron A. Hunt, being called
upon, presented and read his annual report. It was as follows: —

RECEIPTS.

Balance on hand $1,432.74

Membership fees 2,710.00

Hall rent, Buffalo meeting .... 10.00

Interest account 50.00

$4,202.74

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

17

Brought forward

■14,202.74

EXPENDITURES.

Stenographer's report of Washington meeting . $140.00

Miscellaneous printing ..... 95.15

Miscellaneous bills, postage, stationery and express 262.27

Printing report of last meeting .... 375.00

Electrotype of President 5.00

Assistant of Secretary at Washington . . 39.84

Executive Committee meeting at St. Louis . 409.90

Salary of Secretary for one year .... 750.00

Balance in treasury, July 1st, 1893

Examined and approved.

$2,077.16
$2, L25.58

Wm. R. Smith.
Patrick O'Mara.
J. T. Anthony.

[The Convention manifested its approbation of the reports of the
Secretary and Treasurer in rounds of applause, which apparently pre-
cluded any necessity for the usual formal votes of acceptance.]

Treasurer Hunt, in reading his report, made a brief explanatory
statement concerning the item of expenses of Executive Committee
meeting at St. Louis, in January. He said : —

We are either fortunate or uufortunate, I hardly know which, in
having upon our Executive Committee some members to whom finances
seem to be no object; one, especially, who was so intent last year upon
" an extension of time," that he forgot all about his bill. Consequently,
two former bills which should have appeared in the Treasurer's Report o'f
last year, were carried over to this year, swelling the amount of the
item.

STATISTICS OF THE IMPORT AND EXPORT TRADE TN ORNAMENTAL

HORTICULTURE.

Mr. John Burton, of Philadelphia: Mr. President, I desire to
present a motion with reference to one part of the very able address of
our President, to which we have listened with so much satisfaction. I
do not know that I ever heard anything treating of our profession which
gave me more pleasure than the address which has just been delivered.
It contains, among other valuable suggestions, one which I think is of more
than ordinary merit and value to the florists of this country, viz : the
recommendation that a committee be formed to collate statistics, etc., of

18 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

our imports and exports in ornamental horticulture and matters of that
kind. The recommendation is one which, in my judgment, should re-
ceive immediate consideration. I therefore make this motion : —

"That, in accordance with the suggestion of the President, a com-
mittee of five be appointed to obtain statistics upon imports and exports
of the trade ; that each state vice-president be ex-officio a member of the
same; and that the said committee make report at our next annual
meeting:."

*&*

Let me say further that a more valuable suggestion than this one in
the President's Address has probably never been made in the history of
this Society; and the importance of having these figures, so that we may
know where we stand, can hardly be questioned. If hereafter it be
deemed desirable, the action now taken may be followed by the appoint-
ment of other committees, who will tell us in what portions of our
country to plant these seeds, bulbs and plants for which, as you have
told us, we now send this immense amount of money to foreign coun-
tries; thereby enabling us to save the large expenditure we now make
abroad.

Mr. Charles D. Ball, of Holmesburg, Pennsylvania, seconded the
motion.

Calls for the question being made, a vote was here taken, when
the motion of Mr. Burton was adopted by a unanimous vote.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES.

The President, as the next order of business, called for reports
from standing committees, but no response to the call was made.

Reports from special committees were then invited

Mr. W. A. Manda, of Short Hills, N. J., on behalf of the
committee appointed at the Executive Committee meeting in February,
to prepare medals for presentation to the originators of new varieties
of plants, reported that the committee had prepared a die for the medals
but unfortunately it had brokeu in the hardening process. Therefore it
could not be submitted to the members today, but the committee
expected that, within two or three weeks from this date, they would
have a die ready for inspection. He added that he had brought with
him proofs, which had been submitted to all the members of the com-
mittee and approved by them, and these could be seen by any member
at this time.

On motion of Mr. James Dean, of Bay Ridge, N. Y., seconded by
Mr. E. A. Seidewitz, of Baltimore, the report of the committee on
medals was accepted.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 19

Secretary Stewart announced, on behalf of the committee on
nomenclature, that they were not now ready to report but would hold a
meeting during the day and make report later. He also announced, on
behalf of the committee on express rates, that the document containing
their report had not been received but was expected to arrive from
Chicago in time for presentation at the evening session.

THE NATIONAL CHARTER.

Secretary Stewart after reading the list of judges selected to make
awards on the various exhibits in the Exhibition Hall made an announce-
ment on behalf of Mr. P. Welch, of Boston, who had contemplated
offering, at the present annual meeting, an amendment to the constitu-
tion. He stated that, in view of the expectation of obtaining a national
charter, that gentleman preferred to leave the matter of the amendment
for the consideration of the incorporators of the Society upon the charter
being adopted : and therefore nothing would be done on the subject at
this time.

DISCUSSION OF THE PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS.

At this point the duties of the chair were temporarily assumed by
Vice-President Trelease, whose appearance was the signal for a furore
of applause. He announced as the business before the Convention a
discussion of the President's Address, and invited remarks.

Mr. E. Gurney Hill, of Richmond, Ind., responded. He said : —

Mr. Chairman,— I want to say that I was delighted with the address.
The principles set forth and the sentiment expressed by our President
meet my hearty approval. There is one phase of the address, in particu-
lar, that I think we ought all to take to heart. All the members of this
Society are, I believe, patriotic Americans ; and, while we have a kindly
feeling for the men across the water who are engaged in the same pro-
fession with us, patriotic pride and correct ideas in regard to political
economy, if nothing else, should stimulate us to produce more of the
things that we use in our own country and send less of our money abroad.
[Cheers.] We have a country vast in its resources ; climatic conditions
can be found all over this Union, I think, to produce everything, in fact,
that we now import from across the water. I concur heartily with our
President in all that he has said upon that point. There is no question
in my mind but that we can save this enormous amount of money we
are sending to France for Roman hyacinths ; and if we can do this, why
not do it ? We know there is a financial depression all over the country
now ; many political economists say we are sending too much money
over there, that the balance of trade is against us ; some figure up that
that is one cause of our suffering at the present time ; (I think myself

20 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

it is a contributing cause ; ) but if we, as members of this Society, can
do something to stimulate the production of hyacinths on this side of
the water I think it behooves us to do it.

I applaud the lofty sentiment of the President's Address. He has
spoken words of wisdom to us, and we ought to heed them. He has
spoken of the aesthetic side of our business, of the means that there
should be among us for a better insight into and a higher estimate of our
profession, and of the qualifications necessary for following it success-
fully. I like that thought ; and I think that, when we come to carefully
read the address, to digest it and think it over, we will see in it much to
study and reflect upon and that with such study and reflection it will result
in great benefit not only to this Society, but to the profession in this
country. [Long continued applause.]

The President pro. tan. invited further discussion, but no response
was made.

MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS.

Prior to the recess sundry announcements were made by Secretary
Stewart. These related to the arrangements for the carriage drive in
the afternoon ; the payment of dues by the members, etc.

Adjourned.

LOCAL HOSPITALITY.

During the afternoon a large number of the members of the Society,
many of whom were accompanied by ladies, participated in a carriage
ride, upon the invitation of the St. Louis Florists' Club. About fifty
carriages and other vehicles conveyed the party from the Convention
Hall through the more beautiful sections of the city. The route included
Lafayette Park, Compton Hill Reservoir grounds, Tower Grove Park
and Forest Park. At the latter place the party was photographed.

FIRST DAY — EVENING.

At the evening session the members were dilatory in arriving, and
the usual call to order was deferred some time after the appointed hour.

CARNATIONS.

The main feature of the session was an essay on carnations (under
the auspices of the American Carnation Society), by Mr. C. H. Allen,
of Floral Park, X. Y.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 21

President Smith, in introducing the essayist, remarked that the sub-
ject for consideration was that child of the sun to which he had referred
in his own address in the morning.

Mr. Allen then read the essay, to which the Society listened with
evident interest and appreciation. The paper was as follows : —

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, — The history of the carna-
tion— its value to the trade, the diseases to which it is subject, and
the remedy for the same — have been so frequently and ably discussed
by its specialists that, without going over the same series of facts and
incidents pertaining to propagation and development, there is but little
to be said.

It may be taken without question that the florists from every section
of our country, honored as they are by the presence of those from other
countries with mutual interests, are not here assembled to hear echoes of
past experiences, but to hear sounded some new note in the scale of cul-
ture, or in the line of development of the flower which the American
Carnation Society was organized to foster.

There are apparently but two points in the cultivation of the carna-
tion to be considered at this time; and the importance of these briefly
stated, will be sufficient food for thought for the grower, for at least
another year. Our experience with the carnation shows us that in two
respects it is a neglected flower when compared with other objects of the
florists' care. To get flowers of any desired class of superior merit,
there are certain indispensable conditions to be observed. The first is to
secure healthy plants, those with constitutions that will enable them to
assimilate the greatest amount possible of plant food. Strength is a
necessary condition of reproduction; and from Nature's standpoint
plants are only reproducers through the agency of their flowers. It,
therefore follows, that strength of plant and abundance of flowers are
cause and effect.

The first neglect we shall notice in the propagation of the carnation
is that selection as a means of increased vitality is sadly overlooked.
When any plant has been grown for a long series of years under unuat-
ural conditions, as in the case of carnations from cuttings, instead of
from seeds, there will be a natural tendency towards deterioration, which
will manifest itself in various ways, the more common being an impov-
erished vitality. This is attributed to the too commonly expressed
opiuion that varieties run out. Varieties do run out, but from neglect
in a majority of cases. When the same care is used to perpetuate a
variety that was given by the systematic hybridizer to produce it, there
will be no deterioration. When varieties like Silver Spray, Buttercup,
Wm. Scott, Edna Craig and numerous other excellent sorts are produced,
the great object is to perpetuate them. To that end the greatest care in
selection should be observed, health being the important consideration.

22 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Cuttings should, in all cases, be taken from plants showing the greatest
vigor in growth, color and substance of foliage, and a tendency to free
flowering.

It is the ultimate object of all plant life to produce seed, and the
plants showing the greatest tendency to bloom, show, as a rule, the
greatest amount of vitality, and from such plants should cuttings be taken.
Hence has arisen the general opinion that cuttings be taken only from
stems bearing flowers. AVith due respect to disseminators of new vari-
eties, it is our opinion that the tendency of the trade is to make the
most of a variety rather than the best. The effort has not been to select
with a view to developing health and strength, but to produce as many
plants as possible, while they bring a high price because of their novelty.

The general impression is that the carnation will not stand as much
manure as the rose or chrysanthemum. Quoting from " Phillips' Flora
Historica," published in 1820, Maddock recommends a compost of one-
half rotten horse dung, one year old or that has been used in a hot-bed, one-
third fresh, sound, loamy earth, one-sixth coarse sea or river sand.
These ingredients are to be mixed together in Autumn and used the
following Spring or Autumn. Mr. Hogg (at the same time) recommends
at the rate of three barrows full of loam, one and a half barrows of garden
mould, ten barrows horse dung, one barrow of coarse sand, to be mixed
and thrown together in a heap or ridge and turned two or three times in
frosty weather. On a dry day toward the end of November take a bar-
row full of fresh lime which, as soon as it is slacked, strew it over while
hot in turning the heap. This destroys the slugs, worms and grubs.

Compare these formulas with the composts used by the majority of
growers of this country today. As an experiment, last September, I
planted a bench of Lizzie McGowan in soil, one-half well rotted cow and
horse manure and one-half decayed sod, the plants being set one foot apart
to allow free circulation of air. As soon as the roots had taken hold I
began using water enriched with one peck of night soil and two ounces
of nitrate of soda to fifty gallons of water, applying the same once a
week until January first, twice a week thereafter. Disbudding was at-
tending to thoroughly, one bud being left to a stem; all others being re-
moved as soon as they appeared. Results: long stiff stem, fifteen to
twenty inches long, flowers three inches in diameter; returns from com-
mission dealer, November 15 to December 20, three dollars per hundred;
Christmas week, five dollars per hundred; January first through Lent
three dollars per hundred; Easter, six dollars per hundred. Hei'eafter,
I shall disbud and fertilize all carnations in my houses more heavily than
I did the McGowans last year. Another experiment: Plants taken from
sand May first ; planted June first on bench in house which has side
and ridge ventilation; soil as rich as used for McGowans last season are
now, August first, showing: much better color and substance in foliage
than plants of same sorts rooted April first and planted outside, the latter

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 23

having to stand the severe drought of the past two months. We have
been able to water and care for those inside at little expense.

The experiment has been made to settle for ourselves the question,
can carnations be grown inside during summer to an advantage ? The
full result of this test cannot be given until the plants outside have been
tested the coming season with those which have been in the house all
summer. From present appearances I should not hesitate to fill my
houses with plants in June for flowering the following season.

In conclusion, let me ask of you who are growers, the careful,
liberal treatment of the carnation to which it is justly entitled. The
results will be greatly to your advantage from a financial standpoint, and
will bring into prominence a flower that is endeared to every lover of
plant life. I thank you for your kind attention.

Discussion of the subject was invited.

Mr. E. G. Hill expressed a desire to hear from Mr. Fred Dorner,
Jr., who, he said, could doubtless state some additional points in regard
to carnations.

Mr. Fred Dorner, Jr., of Lafayette, Ind., came forward to the plat-
form where he had been invited by the chair, and said: I find from Mr.
Allen's paper that the way he grows carnations is about the way we
grow them; and we obtain about the same result that he does. In dis-
budding we disbud about the same as he does, leaving about one bud to a
stem, and get good, stiff stems fifteen inches long and flowers three
inches and over in diameter. As to the soil, we use about a third part
of well-rotted manure and two-thirds of loam; and in feeding we use
liquid manure applied about once every two weeks. We use nitrate of
soda dissolved in water to syringe with. As a prevention of disease we
use sulphate of copper dissolved in ammonia, a very weak solution, and
apply it about once in every two weeks. It acts both as a preventive
of disease and as a stimulant to the growth of the plant.

In regard to the experiment of planting in greenhouses, I have to
say, that we have two houses planted, one being under glass and the
other having the benches, but no glass over it, though this will be put
on later. Of course the experiment remains to be tried. The cuttings
were made in May and planted in the houses in the first part of
June; they are showing very strong growth and making a much better
showing than those outside. In the other house we had the plants in
four-inch pots; these we planted in the benches in the new house we
are putting up. We put in the side wall and the benches and transplanted
the plants there from four-inch pots. They were earlier struck cuttings.
The plants outside show very strong growth, but not as strong compara-
tively as those inside. If there are any questions to be asked I will en-
deavor to answer them.

24 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis: What proportion of the sulphate
of copper do you use as a preventive of disease, and how often do you
use it ?

Mr. Dorner: It is difficult for me to answer that question, as the
solution is prepared and applied not by me but by my father, who at-
tends to the work at home while I attend to that in the city. I kuow,
though, he uses a very weak solution — I think a pound of sulphate of
copper dissolved in just about enough ammonia to cover it. After that
has dissolved he puts it in a common sized tub, which he fills up with
water.

Mr. Michel: Do you know about what is the size of the tub ?

Mr. Dokner: Tbe tub holds about a half a barrel full. He has it
in the greenhouse and takes from it as required. He uses about two
pinls of the solution to a barrel of water, never more than that. We have
never had any disease on our plants and hope never to see any. As I
have said, we use the solution as a preventive and because it acts as a
stimulant. (Replying to a further inquiry : ) We have horse and cow
manure mixed and well rotted. We bring in the ground from the field
then spread the manure over the top and mix thoroughly on the bench.

Mr. J. M. Jordan, of St. Louis : Mr. President, I have here a
recipe for a solution used by parties who have been experimenting upon
rose fungus and disease in carnations. I presume it is similar to that
just stated. It is as follows : " Six (ij) oz. of copper carbonate dissolved
in about three (3) pints of ammonia of 26° strength. Then dilute it in
fifty gallons of water or in that proportion." That would not be too
strong for plant use. If you get them too strong, these ammonias injure
the plant growth, but that which I have read has been given as being
very safe to be used on carnations and roses where some fungoid disease
has developed.

Mr. Dorner : One other point I will mention refers to the propaga-
tion of cuttings. Last winter we made some cuttings from plants we
had stored away ; that is, we had planted them in five-inch pots from
the open field and then placed them in a cold house. These plants
never had any blooms on them, as they were kept trimmed back. We
find that those cuttings are fully two-thirds better than the ones that
were taken from blooming plants. If we possibly can, next winter, we
are going to take all our cuttings in that way. Mr. Hunt has explained
this in his book.

Mr. E. H. Michel : In regard to the mode of taking cuttings I will
ask Mr. Dorner a question upon a point that may be of interest. Do
you cut them or do you simply break them out ?

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 25

Mr. Dorner: We break them out. We use a knife on them as
little as possible.

The President invited further discussion.

Mr. E. G. Hill: In regard to taking carnation cuttings I may say
that I think the finest lot of plants I ever had the pleasure of growing,
were taken in the latter part of September, from plants that were grow-
ing in the open ground ; and we wintered the cuttings in a cool house.
They were pinched during the winter and kept in a cool temperature, at
just above the freezing point. I must say that 1 never saw plants grow
with such vigor as did those.

Now, I am greatly interested in this experiment that Mr. Allen
and Mr. Dorner are making in regard to the indoor cultivation of car-
nations in summer time. The same theory was advanced by one of the
best growers in the country, some years ago. He said to me that if he
was in position to do so he would try it because he knew it would be
successful, but, as he was working in other lines just then, he could not
well take hold of carnations. I have thought of that since, and I am
glad to know that Mr. Allen and Mr. Dorner are each giving this matter
careful experiment at their respective places. Mr. Allen is on record as
having sent some of the best carnation blooms to the New York market.
I heard a great number of growers, when I was in New York this Spring,
speak of the splendid samples of the variety Lizzie McGowan that Mr.
Allen had sent to commission houses ; and we all know somewhat of
Mr. Dorner's carnations here in the west.

I think careful culture and a proper attention to feeding will bring
just as great and as good results as are obtained when we give the same
degree of attention to roses; that is, the carnation enjoys good treat-
ment just as the rose does, and will enjoy a good greenhouse to grow in,
just as the rose does. I am not so certain but that there is at least as
much money for you when you grow them right, and upon the most
approved plans and best methods, as there is in growing roses. I believe
it is highly beneficial to the carnation to feed it well ; and the formulas,
as read by Mr. Allen, that were in vogue I forget how many years ago — ■

Mr. Allen: Since 1820.

Mr. Hill: These show that the carnation likes a rich soil. When
you use manure it must be well rotted, — you want the rankness out of
it. The carnation will enjoy growing in a soil with a large quantity of
rotten manure.

On behalf of the officers of the American Carnation Society I want,
here and now, to extend to ail the membership here, a most cordial
invitation to attend the annual meeting of that society, in the city of
Indianapolis, which will occur on the second Thursday in February. [
know that the meeting at Pittsburg was an enjoyable occasion; the

26 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTII CONVENTION,

discussions and papers were of a high order; and I think everyone who
was present came away feeling they had been well paid for attending
that meeting. We hope to have a like feast for you at Indianapolis next
year. I want to say, on behalf of the Indiana florists and the State
Society, we will endeavor to treat you nicely and take good care of you,
if you will come. [Applause.]

Mr. Allen: Mr. President, I do not question but that some of the
finest plants ever grown were taken from cuttings made from plants,
just in the way Mr. Dorner represents; and I do not question but that
all carnation growers have found that some of the most healthy appear-
ing plants have failed to throw out flowering shoots. This is from a lack
of the necessary vitality to produce flowers, and hence seed. Cuttings
are taken from such plants, and from this source arises the deterioration
of the carnation. That is a point that must not be overlooked. Any
plant that will not throw up a flower will not produce healthy stock; it
is bound to deteriorate. I know that the finest stock I ever had was
produced from plants in the manner stated by Mr. Dorner; but the fact
must not be overlooked that the cuttings which are used for the purpose
must be selected very carefully from shoots that have shown flowers or
buds.

Mr. Dorner: I wish to call Mr. Allen's attention to the fact, that
the point on which I was speaking was, that after the bud had shown on
the stem, it was cut back, and that this cutting back had strengthened
the side branches that were used for cuttings.

.-!■

Mr. Allen: That I understand. I merely wished to call the atten-
tion of many who might not have understood it, to that one point in the
re-vitalizing of the carnation.

Here the discussion closed.

On motion of Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Indiana, seconded by
Mr. Robert Kift, of Philadelphia, it was ordered that a vote of thanks
be tendered to Mr. Allen, for his very able and instructive paper.

co-operation in regulating prices.

President Smith here took up the program and announced that,
under the head of " The Question Box," several subjects had been as-
signed for the evening. The first of these was, "The benefits of a closer
co-operation between growers and retailers as regards regulating prices."

Mr. Robert Kift, of Philadelphia, (to whom the reply to the query
had been assigned,) being called upon, ascended the platform and re-
sponded. He said, several florists have said to me, " I hear you are
going to read a paper at the Convention." My reply was that the
Secretary had requested me to do so. "Well, what did he want you to

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 27

talk about ? " I answered, " The benefits of a closer co-operation
between growers and retailers as regards regulating prices." "Oh, ah,
you can't make anything out of that; the more you talk about it the less
we will know about it." [Merriment.] However, I have written what
I have to say and will now read it : —

There is no system so perfect that it is not open to improvement, and
the loud complaints that are constantly heard show that growers and
dealers alike are much dissatisfied with the present methods of marketing
cut flowers. It is a very slow season indeed that does not hatch out one
or more schemes having for their object a more perfect system in handl-
ing flowers and regulating prices.

Perhaps it would be well to take a general view of the situation.
One retail dealer will buy the great bulk of his stock directly from the
grower, making in some cases a contract for the entire crop. He will be
heard to declai'e that this is the most satisfactory way of doing business
and he wonders how anybody can be so foolish as to pay outside prices
to a commission man, when he can get flowers so much cheaper by deal-
ing directly with the grower.

A season or two passes by, and this same dealer is found to be a
regular customer of the commission man, and now firmly believes that
this is the system by which all flowers should be handled in a wholesale
way. He will say, " You see whenl contracted with Brown, his flowers
were the best in the market, and he sent in just about as many as I could
use, but after a while the stock commenced to pile up on me, so that I
could not possibly use it all, and the bills were something frightful. In
cold weather when flowers were scarce I did not get enough and had to
go outside and pay high prices. Finally my experience was that when
flowers were most in demand I did not get enough, and when the dull
season set in, I had more than I knew what to do with, this is the reason
T made the change."

On the other hand a certain grower ships all his products to be sold
on commission; he says it is the only way; he has tried the retail dealer
but has no use for him. It was all right at first when flowers brought a
good price and he could sell them anywhere, in fact men came to the place
after them; then everything was lovely; but after the crops were in full
swing and flowers began to get more plentiful, he would get all sorts of
complaints from the dealer, and finally have the crop thrown on his hands
when there was little or no market for it .

Another grower we find with his gun loaded for the commission
man; he says he is a rascal, a cheat and a fraud. As long as flowers were
scarce he got a fair price, but after they became plentiful his returns
were hardly sufficient to pay the expense of shipping.

He had known of certain consignments of his being entirely sold
almost as soon as they were offered for sale, but finding no evidence of
this among the returns, he was told after demanding an explanation, that

28 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

he had to divide up with others whose stock, though as good as his, had
gone to waste.

These and similar complaints are to he heard from both sides.
Occasionally growers are met, who say they are very well satisfied with
the way their stock is handled, and there are dealers who, thinking they
have a kind of monopoly of the best flowers, prefer the system prevailing
in their locality and are opposed to any plans for its improvement.

I believe the entire solution of this vexed question lies in the
establishing of a flower market in every large city. This can be done by
the co-operation of the commission men and the growers. Let them have
all the flowers (grown about any large city), offered for sale in one place
(or market) early every morning, and they can depend upon it the
retailers will do the rest.

Flowers are perishable stock and have to be handled in such a way
after they are cut, as to reach the dealer with the least possible delay.
And I fully believe that in no way can this be done better than by sending
them to a common centre from which they can be selected. In such a
place the grower and the dealer, or their representatives meet, and the
question of regulating prices is soon settled.

Combinations to regulate prices almost invariably fail. They may
succeed for a time, but finally the projectors find that what they make by
the combination is eaten up in the cost of running the machine, which
soon breaks down and is found to be beyond repair.

Prices regulate themselves.

If buyers are plenty and flowers are scarce, the price goes up, it
cannot be kept down. The dealer must have stock for his customers; he
will even buy that for which he has little demand, in order to get a popular
flower of the season, as " You cannot have my Beauties unless you buy
something else," is a very familiar expression to retail men.

On the other hand, when flowers are plentiful prices fall just as
naturally as water runs down a hill, try to stop them and you have a dam,
an additional load to carry. But if the price is kept at an even pace
with the current, all will be well and things will run on smoothly a»
before.

The establishing of a market does not mean that the commission
merchants are to go out of business; by no means, they are to be a part
and a very large part of any such corporation.

The growers, or their men, who waste valuable time going from one
store to another, littering up the dealers' counters with their boxes and
baskets when he is busy, are also to be a part of the market.

And lastly the dealer, who waits on Tom, Dick and Harry to come
in with their flowers in the morning, and stands impatiently looking at
the clock, and every few minutes steps to the door to see if Jones, who
should have been there an hour ago, is not coming with his Brides, and
finally sees his would-be customer obliged to go to make a train without

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 29

being served, he is to be there. Yes; make no mistake, he will be there;
his men will be found early in the morning waiting for the stock to
arrive.

The 34th Street Ferry Market, in New York, opens at five A. m.,
and the business is all over, as a rule, before eight, and who shall say
this market has not been a success.

You may ask, why have these markets not been established long
ago ? It is because when a man is succeeding fairly well with his busi-
ness by pursuing certain methods, he is loth to make a change. The
commission merchants have customers which regularly visit their estab-
lishments and to whom they sell the bulk of their stock.

With the growers who peddle from store to store, it is much the
same. They go over their route day after day, and build up the trade
upon which they depend.

It has always been my thought that it is the fear of losing this
established custom that has made the commission men and the growers
so unwilling to take any part in a movement to open a market, or to cen-
tralize the business in any way. I have turned this subject over and
over, and have discussed it with growers, commission men and dealers
alike, and I cannot see but that all departments of the trade have
everything to gain and nothing of value to lose.

All the flowers in one place will bring all the customers to the
centre, and this much discussed regulation of prices will settle itself.
Such a place will be the axis or centre upon which all business will turn.
The dealers whose trade demands the best flowers will be early on the
ground to bid against one another; and so on down to the fakirs who are
always to be found, and who may be called the scavengers of the
market.

The 34th Street Ferry Exchange, in New York, was started by the
eagerness of the retail florists to get stock early in the morning.
They could not wait for their grower to come with his flowers, and per-
haps find out at the last minute that he did not have what they wanted;
they found it a better plan to meet him at the ferry when the boat came
in, and then if his stock was low, there were other growers from his
neighborhood who could supply them.

I have seen large baskets of flowers brought into the restaurant
where the market was held containing, probably, anyway from $50.00
to $100.00 worth of flowers, cleaned out almost before they could be
properly accounted for. As good prices are obtained here as in the
stores and commission houses down town, for the same class of stock.

Commission men who receive flowers byway of the ferry, invariably
offer them for sale there first. As much as ten thousand dollars, or
business to even more than this amount, has been transacted in a
single day.

This place, once a convenience, has grown to be a necessity, and is

30 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

now firmly established in commodious quarters. It is managed by a
stock company, the members of which are all men interested in the
business and success of the market.

One objection to this plan advanced by some of the men who peddle
their stock is, that if a market was started, a number of growers would
not join the movement; but acting independently, would sell their
flowers as usual by carrying them around, and the dealers being supplied
would not visit the establishment.

In order to make a radical change such as this would be to most
communities, it would be necessary to have the co-operation of a
majority of the parties concerned. That is to say, growers controlling
more than half of the flowers offered for sale, would have to agree that
their business should be transacted in the market, either by themselves
or through commission men.

This accomplished, success would be assured, as the balance of the
trade would soon follow. Now, when the peddlers appeared at the store,
they would be told, " our buyer is at the market," and they would very
soon have to fall in line.

Again I am told, that when a glut is on, the fakirs will flood the
streets and ruin the business of the store keepers.

In New York, at certain seasons of the year, enormous quantities
of flowers are daily offered for sale, very many more than can be handled
by the present store system. In these periods of apparent over-produc-
tion, the fakir is welcomed with open arms by the large commission
houses, and tens of thousand of dollars' worth of flowers reach the
public through these curbstone merchants that would never be sold in
any other way.

In spite of this opposition, however, the retail business of New
York city is growing rapidly, and the beautiful stores and handsome
turnouts of the prominent florists give every evidence of prosperity.

In conclusion, I believe that the fault lies not in over-production but
in an imperfect system of reaching the consumer.

A great deal is said about the extravagances of the people in buying
flowers; but I believe that less money is spent for these products of ours,
that do so much to elevate the taste and bring joy to mankind, than for
any other luxury.

Let us all, therefore, co-operate, work together, bring our flowers
before the people, — the whole people, rich and poor alike, and the returns
will be found most satisfactory to every department of the business.

Upon the conclusion of the paper the audience expressed its appre-
ciation in rounds of applause.

TO INCREASE THE LOVE OF FLOWERS.

The next subject under the head of "The Question Box," was,
" How can we best increase the love of flowers among the people of this

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 31

continent? " the reply to which had been assigned to Messrs. Robert
Craig and George C. Watson, of Philadelphia.

Mr. Craig, upon explaining that the paper he had prepared was not
at this moment in his possession but would be produced at the evening
session of the following day, was excused for the present from responding.

The reply prepared by Mr. George C. Watson, of Philadelphia,
who was not present, was here read by Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis.
Sundry features of the communication were loudly applauded, particu-
larly its recommendation that every gardener should purchase a copy of
" Nicholson's Dictionary of Gardening."*

Mr. Watson's paper was as follows: —

With many enthusiasts in the business, working for an increase of a
love of flowers among the people is a hobby quite apart from any
pecuniary returns resulting therefrom, and it is safe to say that this
missionary spirit is present, in a greater or less degree, with all of us.
When to this is added the fact that when such an increase is achieved
the increased demand for our products increases our profits, and the
greater volume of business done improves the standing of the trade in
the community, it is apparent why this question has such a vital interest
for every one of us, and why we ought all to labor unceasingly to foster
a love of flowers among the people — why we should think of it by day
and dream of it by night — for there is honor, glory and profit in the
attainment of this noble and inspiring object.

The Society of American Florists was formed to further the interests
of its members in every legitimate way, and if it can by any possible
means increase the love of flowers among the people it will be doing the
most effective kind of service. Indeed, it is generally admitted that it
has already been a powerful factor in this — although perhaps indirectly.
The great extension of intercourse which this Society has created among
the members of the craft all over the continent; the improved methods
of cultivation introduced by its discussions, and the consequent improve-
ment in quality and lessening of cost of flowers and plants; the great and
beneficial influence of its strenuous efforts for correctness in nomen-
clature; all these and various other influences directly emanating from
the Society of American Florists have undoubtedly done much to increase
a love of flowers among the people. One of the first duties, therefore,
is to strongly support the Society of American Florists in the work that
it is doing, and to give it individually all the assistance we possibly can.

The various Florists' Clubs scattered over the country are also a
powerful factor, much in the same way as is the Society of American
Florists, although within more prescribed limits. Every florist should

*.VIr. George Nicholson, of Kew Gardens, England, the author of the Dictionary,
occupied a seat in the audience throughout the evening.

32 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

belong to the local club, if there is one in his locality, and if there is not
he should set about forming one at once. It is the most astonishing
thing to an onlooker to see the way the florists of some towns behave
toward one another. Ten years ago it was worse than it is now, but
there is a good deal of the old feeling still left in some localities. How
much more sensible it would be if, instead of trying to cut one another's
throat, each would join hands with the other and spend their surplus
energies in devising ways and means to induce their constituency to buy
more flowers and plants for the mutual advantage of all concerned ! Too
much competition is a bad thing; but if the competition is present
whether you like it or whether you do not, the wisest thing to do is to
make it as innocuous as possible. The way to make competition innoc-
uous is not by cutting prices and trying to freeze the other fellow out.
That plan hurts the one party about as much as the other. A better plan
is to get together and try to devise a scheme for enlarging the market ;
to find out what each can grow best and to endeavor not to be both hunt-
ing the same hare. The Florists' Club is the best agency through which
to accomplish an object like this where concerted action is desirable.
And do not think that because there are but a handful of you in the
locality that a club is impracticable. The number is immaterial. Only
get together; that is the main point. And do not sit down and wait for
your neighbor to take the initiative. Make up your mind that you are
going to do it yourself, and that you are going to get all the others
interested to help you. And do not give up because you find some that
won't join in on the first asking. Don't be afraid of obstacles. Keep at
it. The way opposition melts in the face of persistent effort is remark-
able.

Besides being active in the Society of American Florists aud the
local club, every florist should subscribe and read carefully the trade
papers published in the interest of the craft. One may read therein
things he already knows; but that is nothing. He might also miss some-
thing he does not know, and it is a pretty smart man that knows every-
thing. One cannot reach his full measure of usefulness in spreading a
love of flowers among the people, unless he keeps himself thoroughly
posted as to what is going on.

Support the horticultural society. If you have not such, make it
your business to form one. A horticultural society is instituted for the
very purpose of spreading a love of flowers among the people. By sup-
port it is not meant that you are simply to join the society and pay your
yearly dues. That is only passive support. Attend its meetings regularly.
Be prepared to talk on interesting subjects connected with horticulture
whenever there is a chance. Grow something for the exhibitions. Be
prepared to sacrifice a little in the good cause, even if there be no great
inducement in the way of money prizes for exhibits. If you have
nothing worthy of entering for a prize, be sure you enter something for

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLOFvISTS. 33

exhibition, and mark it, " not for competition." And grow something a
little bit out of the common for this purpose. A novelty need not be
an absolutely new plant. Anything good, if a little bit neglected for a
year or two, will give almost as good results as a " Stanley's Wash-tub,"
or anything else from outlandish places. Too many of us lay too much
stress on the premiums. If we don't get first we sulk and kick and
make things generally disagreeable all around. We are too apt to forget
that the best of judges are liable to err; that we cannot all get the first
prize; that our turn will come next; and that the prizes are a secondary
consideration anyway, in comparison to helping to spread a love of
flowers among the people; and that our individual exhibit is perhaps
doing more for the cause than some that have been luckier in prize
getting, on account of having a pot an inch smaller, or something.
Endeavor to get all the wealthy people, as well as those not so blest,
into the society; and when you get them in, impress upon them that
they are active members, and find ways for them to be actice. Many who
are members now do nothing, simply because they do not know what to
do, nor how to do it. If you go to a man who is a member, and who has
a conservatory for his own pleasure, and say to him that the society is
desirous of making an exhibit of some particular class of plants a feature
at its next show, and that you want his assistance, ten to one he will
gladly do what is required; and when his gardener goes to him about the
same matter, he will have no trouble in getting the requisite authority
to go ahead. Without this little stimulation of the interest of the owner,
a private gardener is often afraid to grow anything new of his own
accord, and sometimes he thiuks the prizes are not large enough; but, if
once he knows that the owner wishes it, the prizes become a secondary
consideration. Being a member of a horticultural society implies a cer-
tain amount of obligation to further the interests of the institution, and
it should be firmly impressed on each and every one who joins, that he
or she is expected to become an active worker, and the executive should
see to it that some duty is entrusted to them at as early a date as possible.
Train the young. Much has already been said at previous Conventions
on this; but it is of such importance that it cannot be too often insisted
on in any effort for the advancement of horticulture. The Massachu-
setts Horticultural Society, the Hampden County Horticultural Society,
of Springfield, Mass., and perhaps some others, have a department es-
pecially devoted to this purpose; and it should form a part of the work
of every horticultural and kindred society in the country. The impres-
sions received in childhood are deep and lasting, and we are derelict in
our duty if we do not make every effort possible to foster a love of
gardening in the young. Many Sunday schools make a feature of plant
and flower growing, and exhibiting same. These deserve every encour-
agement. Something might be done with the public schools. The
superintendent of public schools in a locality might be called upon by a
competent committee, and ways and means devised whereby the study

34 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

of gardening and botany might be greatly facilitated. Donations of
young plants might be given to the scholars to grow and exhibit. Speci-
mens of flowers might be sent to the schools to assist the teachers with
their botany classes in winter. The scholars might be all given a free
view of every flower show; or if that were impracticable, those showing
a certain proficiency in learning their lessons might be given a ticket to
the flower show as a' prize. A great deal can be done through the public
schools, if it is only gone about systematically. If it is necessary to raise
money to accomplish this, the money can easily be raised. The average
man or woman would much rather give a dollar for such an object than
to buy petticoats and preaching for the Hottentots.

Get the newspapers interested. Establish a letter-writing corps in
your town or village. Divide the work among'the members of this corps,
giving each one a subject to write up for a specified date. If there are
twelve members in the corps, this would only require one letter from each
member in three months; but your local paper or papers would be sup-
plied with a weekly letter on gardening, and the individual effort would
be very slight. The newspaper or newspapers should be approached in
the beginning, the object to be attained explained to them, and how the
same could be accomplished with their help. They would be only too
glad to acquiesce, because a weekly letter like that suggested would be a
valuable and attractive feature in any newspaper.

Encourage every member of your horticultural society and every
one who is at all interested in flowers and plants to subscribe for at least
one paper devoted exclusively to horticulture. There are several good
papers of this description; the following may be specially mentioned : —
Gardening, published in Chicago, a dollar a year; American Garden-
ing, published in New York, a dollar a year ; Garden and Forest,
published in New York, four dollars a year. Suggest to a beginner
anxious to learn, that a good, practical book on gardening is one of the
first things he has to get and study up. The weekly, bi-weekly, or
monthly gardening paper will be the more appreciated once the funda-
mental or rudimentary rules of gardening are thoroughly mastered.
Recommend some books specially written for this climate, such as
"Practical Floriculture," by Peter Henderson; or, "The Gardener's
Story," by G. H. Ellwanger. If their purses warrant it, every gardener
or would-be gardener should also possess a copy of " Nicholson's Dic-
tionary of Gardening," if he would be thoroughly posted and up to
date.

So far, our consideration has been mainly directed to the agencies
with which we are all concerned; but there are other agencies that only
a limited number of us are connected with. Among these latter the most
important is the work of the catalogue men. An essay, however limited
or superficial, would be greatly lacking if it did not recognize the grand
work which the modern catalogue is doing in spreading love of flowers
among the people. The catalogues go everywhere all over the country; to

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 35

the log cabin on the prairie and the miner's camp in the mountains, as
well as to the home of the farmer and suburban resident near the centres
of population. The catalogue is the real pioneer in spreading a love of
flowers. Away in the backwoods where literature is represented mainly
in tree leaves and blades of grass, the catalogue is welcomed as eagerly
as the first snowdrop of spring; its wonders area source of endless delight
to young and old; its big cabbages and enormous potatoes; its overgrown
tomatoes and ponderous pumpkins, are more effective in tickling the
risible sensibilities of the farmer and his family than all the witticisms of
all our eastern funny papers rolled together. And what harm if they do
laugh a little, and take the jocular seedsman in his own vein ? Far be it
from us to encourage misrepresentation, re-naming and kindred evils
which we all deplore. But did anyone ever consider this phase of the
subject, that to catch the attention of your prospective rural customer, it
is necessary to use a little vigorous metaphor at times. If a seedsman
claims that his "Jumbo Pumpkin" is almost as big as Jumbo, your
backwoodsman is amused and sceptical; but he buys some seed of this
Jumbo, all the same — just for fun. Now, so long as they make a com-
mencement in gardening, and begin to beautify their homes, what does
it matter if it was just for fun they began? And who will dare to
breathe a word against the catalogue that induced them ? Let us bless
the catalogue and the catalogue men, exaggerations and all; and if we
must admonish those Munchausens among them once in a while, let it
be gently done, for horticulture owes them a debt of gratitude that she
can never repay.

There is one way that the Society of American Florists could help
the catalogue men, and that is by starting a movement to have flower
and plant catalogues carried at newspaper rates. Considering the noble
work the catalogues do in spreading a love of flowers among the people,
they have the strongest claim on the consideration of the postoffice
department, and a competent committee should be appointed by the
Society of American Florists to accomplish a reduction in postage, if pos-
sible. Many seedsmen have already managed this by calling their
catalogues " Flower Magazines," and the ex-Postmaster General actually
had a book catalogue and price list called Book News carried through the
mails at newspaper rates. But what we want is to treat all alike — put
all on the ground floor and carry their printed matter at the same rate,
no matter what they may call it — a catalogue, a magazine, or a news-
paper. The Society of American Florists secured, by well directed
effort, a reduction in the rates of postage on seeds and plants, and there
is no reason why they should not be equally successful with this other
reform.

In conclusion just one word for the good work that is being done
by our periodical literature in spreading a love for flowers. When such
magazines as the Ladies1 Home Journal, with its 750,000 circulation
every month, devotes a large space regularly to this subject, employing

3G PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

the best artists and such able writers as George H. Ellwanger, F. Schuy-
ler Matthews, H. H. Battles and other experts, it will be readily admitted
that the influence for good is enormous. The Ladies'1 World, The
Delineator and Demurest with their enormous circulations, follow on
the same lines, and there are hundreds of other papers with smaller
circulations that are also doing a splendid work. The only regret in
regard to the latter is that they are not always thoroughly reliable; for
instance, that awful ( 'alia story will be printed by them every time it
comes along, no matter how often it may be exposed and laughed down.
There is only one way to secure improvement in this respect, and that is
for those papers which cannot afford a horticultural editor to get a weekly
syndicate letter from some competent writer, and use that instead of the
hap-hazard matter they now print. Perhaps there is a field here for a
national letter-writing corps, similar to that suggested for local societies.

These few suggestions are but random thoughts from a host that
come crowding for recognition when one begins to think this matter
over, and it is almost impossible to do such a big subject any kind of
justice within the limits of a short essay.

Remembering, however, that this is summer weather, that St. Louis
is far from the cooling breezes of Atlantic City; and that the " quality of
mercy should not be strained," feelings of compassion for the sweltering
condition of the members demand that this matter be cut as decollete as
possible. The foregoing may therefore be briefly summed up as follows: —

I. — Give cordial support to the Society of American Florists and its
affiliated local organizations, and the trade papers.

II. — Give active assistance to all horticultural societies, especially to
that in your own locality.

III. — Train the young. Encourage plant growing among scholars at
public and Sunday schools — classes in botany and similar efforts. Above
all make the grounds of your school house beautiful.

IV. — Interest the newspapers and keep them supplied with reliable
matter by establishing a letter-writing corps in each locality.

V. — Recommend every member of a horticultural society to subscribe
to at least one gardening paper, and if a beginner in gardening, also see
that he studies up a reliable treatise on the subject of gardening.

VI. — The modern seed and plant catalogue being the most effective
pioneer in spreading a love of flowers, especially in isolated localities, it
should be encouraged as much as possible, and a movement to reduce
postage on same to newspaper rates cordially supported.

VII. — Let measures be taken to form a syndicate of horticultural
writers to supply the periodical literature of the day with reliable matter
to take the place of the hackneyed and unreliable and uninteresting stuff
that is now largely in use. This syndicate would be self-supporting as
their matter would have money value.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 37

If these and the many other suggestions that will doubtless be brought
out from the members during the discussion of this subject be actively
and conscientiously worked out by each and all of us, as far as lies in our
power, we will have the pleasure of witnessing a great increase of a love
of flowers among the people. This love of flowers is growing now, and
we want to see it keep on growing until the country becomes a fairyland
of beauty, dotted with beautiful gardens all over its wide expanse. When
Columbus first came over here in 1402, he found a beautiful country.
Here is what he wrote in his journal: —

" The beauty of the new land far surpasses the Campina de ( Jordova.
The trees are bright with an ever-verdant foliage and are always laden
with fruit. The plants on the ground are high and flowering. The air
is warm as that of April in Castile, and the nightingale sings more
melodiously than words can describe. At night the songs of other
smaller birds resound sweetly, and I have also heard our grasshoppers
and frogs. Once I came to a deeply enclosed harbor and saw a high
mountain that had never been seen by mortal eye, and whence gentle
waters flowed down. The mountain was covered with firs and variously
' formed trees with beautiful blossoms. On sailing up the stream, which
empties itself into the bay, I was astonished at the cool shade, the clear
crystal-like water and the number of the singing birds. I felt as if I
could never leave so charming a spot; as if a thousand tongues would
fad to describe all these, things, and as if my hand were spell bound and
refused to write. . . ." — Journal of < 'olumbus on his first voyagt ( 1 192),
from A. Von Humboldt's " Cosmos.v

A delightful picture truly, and showing that the old discoverer fully
appreciated the beauty of the new country. Indeed, we have to admit
that he did so in a greater degree than do a large percentage of its present
denizens. We are so busy looking after the almighty dollar and brag,
about the bigness of our country, that we have neglected to do much in
the way of making our country even more beautiful than it is. But we
are coming to that, too, and by-and-by we will not only have the
biggest, but also the most beautiful the world has ever known — a fairy-
land of flowers, a paradise on earth.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS.

The Convention was here entertained with an essay on " Bench
grown chrysanthemums for exhibition purposes," under the auspices of
the Chrysanthemum Society of America, by Mr. Elmki; D.Smith, of
Adrian, Michigan.

The President : In the absence of the essayist, the paper will be
read by our distinguished friend, the father of the Chrysanthemum So-
ciety of America, Mr. John Thorpe.

Mr. Thorpe came forward and received a prolonged and enthusi-
astic greeting. His reading of the essay was accompanied with the

38 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

strictest attention of the audience, and upon its conclusion, the paper
was heartily applauded. The essay was as follows : —

Mr. President^ Ladies and Gentlemen, — The growing of chrysan-
themums on raised tables or benches, has been in vogue but a few years,
yet there has been so much said and written on this subject, that I fear
it will be impossible for me to offer you any ideas that are new. The
despondent cultivator claimed the acme had been reached at the be-
ginning of the present decade, which echoed and re-echoed until
drowned by the din of progress. As long as competition continues to
grow keener, and each exhibitor exerts greater mental and physical ener-
gies, either to depose a renowned competitor, or to maintain his own
pre-eminence, so long will there be improvement in this very important
branch of chrysanthemum culture. I cannot point out a method and
assure you it is the best, as my short experience with the bench system
(beginning in the fall of 1890), will not justify such precision, for equally
good results have been attained on light or heavy soil, enriched with
either animal or chemical fertilizers, where a crown or terminal bud has
been chosen. Confronted by such facts, it would be foolish to set forth
specific rules and advise them rigidly enforced, and more particularly
so when we consider the prime factors are soil, light, air, water and
food, modified to a greater or less degree b}r the quality and quantity
applied,

Fine chrysanthemums are acquired much the same as intellectual
and financial treasures, not by the great exertions of today, but by con-
tinually adding little by little each day. Mr. John Thorpe, our honored
and beloved chieftain of floriculture, and the father of the chrysanthe-
mum in America, struck the key-note when he said : "Eternal vigilance
is the price of good chrysanthemums.'' I shall not try to instruct the
expert, as I am aware there are mauy present who are better versed than
I; and will be gratified if any of the suggestions offered are of use to
the beginners, to whom this essay is addressed ; hoping if you are
enthusiastic on this subject, to incite still greater incentives. I will
briefly allude to the methods which appear to be practical, as they have
presented themselves in actual experience; and occasionally touch upon
those as practiced by expert growers, beginning with selections of
varieties.

The selection of suitable varieties is the first important matter for
consideration by the inexperienced cultivator. There are so many good
varieties now in commerce, that you can scarcely go astray; but should
you feel incompetent, 1 will mention seventy-five, all of which are good,
although not including the new varieties of the present year, as many of
those I was unable to see last fall; hence, in justice to all disseminators,
I will omit them, and let you form your own conclusions nextiSrovember :
Ada Spauldiug, Alcazar, A. Landenburg, Beacon, Cullingfordii, C. H.
McCormick, Col. W. B. Smith, C. B. Whitnall, Domination, David Rose,

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 39

Dr. Callandreau, Etoile de Lyon, Ernst Asmus, Eda Prass, Excellent,
Emma Hitzeroth, Edward Hatch, Exquisite, Elora Hill, G. P. Moseman,
Goguac, Geo. W.Childs, Golden Gate, Harry E.Widener, Harry May, Harry
Balsley, Ivory, International, J. C. Vaughan, John H. Taylor, Joseph
H. White, F. Schuyler Matthews, Kioto, Lillian B. Bird, Lord Wolesley,
Louis Boehmer, Miss Minnie Wanarnaker, Mrs. Libbie Allen, Mr. H.
Cannell, Mrs. M. J. Thomas, Mrs. Chas. H.Wheeler, Mrs. Frank Thomp-
son, Mrs. Geo. Rundle, Mrs. A. C. Burpee, Mrs. Irving Clark, Mrs. W.
Baker, Mrs. J. G. Whilldin, Mermaid, Mrs. Langtry, Mrs. L. C. Maderia,
Mrs. I. Forsterman, Mrs. W. H. Phipps, Jr., Mrs. Maria Simpson, Miss
Helyett, Mrs. Jerome Joues, Mr. Hicks Arnold, Mrs. Robert Craig, Mrs.
R. C. Ogden, Mrs. J. W. Morrissey, Mrs. W. F. Dreer, O. P. Bassett,
Pelican, Princess of Chrysanthemums, Rohallion, Rose Queen, Roslyn,
Secretary Farson,T. C. Price, Tuxedo, V. H. Hallock, Violet Rose, Vivi-
and-Morel, W. H. Lincoln, Waban and Wm. Falconer.

In this country the large premiums are offered for one hundred to
two hundred blooms in twenty-live to fifty varieties, irrespective of type;
and as we all at present favor those of extra large size, it is safe to say
that the greater part of those shown in America belong to the Japanese
types.

It is to be regretted, however, we can not arouse more enthusiasm
in behalf of the Incuiwed and Anemones, as there are none more beau-
tiful when seen at their best. The varieties most suitable for this pur-
pose, include many of the Japanese and Japanese Incurved and a few of
the Reflexed Anemone and Incurved types, and should be such as have
abundant foliage and strong flower stem with bloom of large size and
good substance. Very double high built flowers are preferable to those
with scanty petals, even though they cover the center.

Assuming your plants are at hand, propagation is next in order.
Propagating of chrysanthemums from soft wood cuttings is so simple
and well understood, it scarcely requires detail as to modus operandi.
Clean wasbed sand is considered the best material for the cutting bench,
but when unavailable, the following materials may be substituted, viz : —
coke, brick and stone finely crushed and screened, so as to retain
sufficient moisture to keep the cuttings from flagging, will give very
satisfactory results. For three years we have used coke dust and fail to
see wherein sand has greater advantages, as the cuttings so rooted have
been in the very best condition. As you are aware, propagation may be
commenced as soon as the stools are of sufficient lengtb, which generally
occurs by December loth, and may be continued until August 1st, but I
doubt if the late struck plants produce as fine solid blooms as those prop-
agated earlier.

Doubtless there are many here who have had the same experience
as I, securing good blooms from W. H. Lincoln, L. Canning, Gloriosum,
Viviand-Morel and many others, while Flora Hill, Mrs. M. J. Thomas,

40 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Etoile de Lyon and nearly the whole of the Mrs. Charles Wheeler class
have been unsatisfactory, from late struck plants. Our English friends
who have given pot culture very careful consideration, advise early prop-
agation ; as early as December for some varieties, January and February
for others. This may seem impracticable in this country, when the dry
atmosphere throughout the Summer keeps the wood in a semi-ripened
condition, thus insuring bud development early in autumn. Yet I fear
we err, when we ignore their teaching and plunge headlong into late
propagation, without even considering the constitutional peculiarities
they inherit. It is true the vigorous varieties will do well, but if weak in
growth will certainly require more time in which to store sufficient
strength to put forth their best efforts. There are some which can hardly
be classed as constitutionally weak, that will need the same attention ; of
such Ada Spaulding, Harry E. Widener, Etoile de Lyon and Mermaid
are examples. Had the subject been cut flowers for commercial purposes,
where the cost of production must be considered, then I would have
recommended May and June as the best time for propagating the bulk
of the stock, but where the object is wholly fine blooms for exhibition,
I think eight weeks earlier will be none too soon, and the result thus ob-
tained will fully compensate for the extra attention.

From the 1st to the loth of June will be a good time to plant, if the
house can be put in readiness without too great a sacrifice, but each
grower should consider his own interest in this matter, for if the
plants have been shifted along and are not drawing too much, two
weeks later will answer as well. When planting on old benches, it
is well after removing the soil to give a good coating of limewash or
a light sprinkling of air-slacked lime before refilling ; this will not
only sweeten the benches, but will be beneficial to the plants later on.
No one will doubt the efficiency of new composted soil, which has been
prepared about the same as for roses, of old sod piled with about one-
fourth its bulk of well rotted cow manure, and it may be either of a clay
or sandy texture. When heavy soil is used, it should be opened with
sharp sand or coke dust; for if too retentive it may give you some anxiety
in lowery weather; for owing to its excessive moisture, the application
of liquid enrichment must be deferred some days, even though they need
encouraging. Various depths of soil are used, — from three to eight inches;
but where close attention is given to feeding I prefer not to exceed four
inches, as the desired conditions can be maintained easier than where
greater depth is used. It is true, shallow benches necessitate constant
attention throughout July and August. Yet the advantages are so pro-
nounced during continued rainy weather of autumn, that one feels
well paid for the extra labor. Some growers spread an inch of manure
either rotted or fresh, on the bottom before filling the benches with com-
post, and no doubt procure fine blooms, but would not the plants receive
greater benefit if the same material was applied as top dressing or in the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 41

liquid form, afterjthey have made sufficient growth to take up the food
incorporated in the compost ? I would say, yes, although unable to give
you proof obtained by actual experiment. Newly composted soil with only
sufficient manure to start the plants off briskl)-, followed either with top
dressing or liquid applications (as you choose) , to keep them in good
vigor, will be a safe and economical method to pursue.

At what distance apart to plant may be somewhat perplexing, and
should be decided by each grower, by considering how many blooms he
would like the plant to produce. You must bear in mind we are to
encourage the accumulation of abundant reserves to be expended in the
blooms, therefore the less they are divided, the better the result. The
Japanese rule, one bloom, is the best, although a plant will produce three
or four very fine blooms. If you decide upon three or more, ten to
twelve inches each way will be sufficient, and six to eight inches for single
blooms. There is considerable difference in the height of chrysan-
themums at maturity, and if you give this a little consideration before
planting, you will produce better effect in the house, as well as avoid
over-shadowing dwarf varieties by tall ones. A close observer will
notice day by day the varied progress of his plants, which will assist him
in their arrangement, although records taken every year will not only
further facilitate, but insure greater accuracy. Plant the dwarf ones on
the front row of each bench or together in one end of the house ; at all
events do not place them between tall varieties, for where this occurs
both labor and plants are lost. "Very often only a few of each variety are
planted, as in the case where novelties and other scarce sorts are being
tested, then houses running east and west are preferable, with the plants
set in rows across the benches, which will allow the sunlight to reach
them all some time during the day, even though they are not uniform in
height.

Before proceeding further, look to the shading and see that it is not
too dense or entirely removed by heavy rains. We continue to use white-
wash and apply with the brush, leaving about an inch and a half on each
side of the bars unpainted ; this admits light to all parts of the house, as
the lights and shadows are continually shifting. Set the plants rather firm,
give a liberal watering, and the planting is complete. As the neat is
increasing at this season, you will find light syringing once or twice a day
will be beneficial, but avoid for the first three or four weeks heavy water-
ing, as the soil is apt to become sodden, particularly if of a heavy texture,
which is soon followed by yellow and sickly foliage ; good judgment in
watering is very essential, so therefore avoid the wet places and see that
the dry ones are made wet. In a month from the date of the planting
they should be making good growth, and water may then be given more
copiously until the buds are ready to burst, then again be careful, and
as far as possible do this work early in the day to insure a dry atmos-
phere at night, as the dew falling on the expanding petals is apt to cause
decay. A few days after planting see that the soil is well stirred to

42 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

remove all weeds which may be starting, and this should be repeated
occasionally until the roots appear on the surface, when it may be dis-
continued for fear of injuring them.

In a few weeks staking and tying will claim your attention for a day
or so, and this may be done in many ways. Some use wire or cord, in
the place of stakes, fastening them to strips at the roof and hanging down
to the plants ; while others stretch several wires over each row, much
the same as for grape trellises. We have adopted the system generally
used in rose-houses, which is as simple and practical as any. We
take number eighteen galvanized wire, strain and securely fasten over
each row, about three feet from the bench, and to this the top of each
stake is tied after being placed in proper position. The stakes as a rule will
need to extend far above the wire, according to the height of the plants
and, if left too long the ends may be cut off just below the bud, and here
securely tied after the disbudding has been done, thus insuring straight
stems. You will likely experience some trouble in tying the back row,
especially where the benches are four feet wide. In such places we are
using number twenty copper wire cut three inches long and bent in about
the same form as a belt hook ; taking it between the thumb and finger
with the open side out, we place it around the plant and stake, then press
together until the ends pass, which securely incloses both in the ring thus
forn led.

Fresh air is quite as essential in the vegetable as in the animal king-
dom if perfect health is desired, and is very important to the plants we are
now treating. Give air at all times and abundantly when the plants are
making rapid growth, continuing this until the buds begin to burst. The
foregoing should be practically modified, when sudden and severe changes
in temperature have occurred, and where retarding is necessary. Judg-
ment must be used from the time color appears to maturity, and be gov-
erned by the nature of the weather and the date flowers are to be shown as
compared with the present rate of progress. As the flowers begin to unfold,
continue the ventilation at night, as the circulation of air prevents dew and
will give better color to the blooms than where heat is resorted to ; to dis-
pose of the surplus moisture avoid the use of heat as far as practical, but
when the thermometer drops below 38°, a little heat will be needed, and
at the same time slight ventilation will be beneficial. After the plants
have attained two feet in height it is well to remove a few of the lower
leaves, and when four feet has been reached there will be no harm if the
lower fourth has been disleaved, for those remaining will be sufficient to
enact their natural functions ; this will admit air more freely and give a
chance to note the condition of the soil. Insects of all kinds must be
looked after; of such the aphis are most common and may be kept in
check by applying tobacco dust after syringing. As soon as the buds
are well formed two or three smokings should be given to destroy all
insects at this date, as the use of both of these remedies must be avoided
cr very judiciously applied after the color begins to appear. Grass-

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 43

hoppers are sometimes very troublesome, and the best remedy for them
is hand picking ; this should be done as early in the morning as is con-
venient, as they are more docile and easily caught, but if snails are trouble-
some, take a lamp or lantern and search before retiring at night.

Probably one of the most important topics to be considered is feeding,
to enhance floral embellishment, which is the flower of our subject that
has been produced, and which we wish to reproduce annually, with
accuracy and economy. Xow let us consider the efficiency, accuracy and
cost of such foods as are generally used.

It is a known fact that fresh cow manure is very stimulating to growth,
but its effects present a marked coarseness in stem, leaf and flower, and
lack of refinement and substance ; those qualities can be acquired without
detracting from the size, color or contour, by the use of chemicals ; such
at least has been my experience. Xext in order is accuracy, and a cer-
tain amount is essential if we admit that food or stimulants are to be used
at all, for our aim is the acme, and the nearer we approach that point, the
more acute must be the accuracy. Let us endeavor to ascertain the
relative value from this standpoint of those naturally and chemically
compounded. When the liquid from the animal manure is to be used, I
believe about the color of weak tea is generally advised, but how easily
we are deceived when apparently on the right track. Take a half bushel
of manure from the horse stable and add sufficient water to cover, and
in twenty-four hours note the color, or if you choose fill and tightly cork
a bottle and then compare this with that which has stood open for a
week or two. The ammoniacal constituents have evaporated, leaving
the liquid darker, and apparently stronger, though containing less alimen-
tation. The same may be said of cow manure, but not to such a marked
degree. Commercial and chemical manures when confined, are pro-
tected from air and water, so remain unchanged, thus assuring the
same strength at each application if properly prepared. Thus I will
leave this matter for your decision.

Now, turn to the cost of material, and as near as I can average the
price, SI. 50 per load of one cubic yard is not far out of the way; and I
think it is safe to say, one-half bushel will be required per barrel when
we average up the quality generally used, so with twenty-one bushels per
yard you can have forty-two barrels, at cost of about three and one-sixth
cents per barrel. Eight ounces of nitrate of soda is sufficient for one
barrel, and costs you about 1£ cents, and five ounces of sulphate of
ammonia for about '006 cents, and is enough for the same, while four
ounces of nitrate of potash will require -02 cents, giving an average
cost of -01^ cents per barrel. Animal manure must be put to soak one
way or another ; and if you are progressive and use a tank and hose for
distributing, you will have to filter the liquid before applying, while the
chemicals are soluble and require no further preparation. It is safe to
say the relative cost is five to one in favor of the latter when all things
are considered. Knowing nothing of chemistry, and having had but little

44 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

experience with its products, I cannot give you a formula and assert its
superiority, as one of such value could only be compounded after years
of experimenting with all the elements beneficial to plant growth and
floral embellishment.

Volumes could be written on this subject, as may be seen when we
consider that ammonia, potash, soda, etc., are productive of the desired
results ; and again these results are modified for better or worse by the
various forms in which these elements are compounded, such as muri-
ates, nitrates, phosphates and sulphates. Mix one part of sulphate of
ammonia with two parts of powdered nitrate of potash (commonly
called saltpetre), and by using four ounces of this mixture to a barrel of
water you will find it excellent after the plants have absorbed the manural
virtues of the compost. Nitrate of potash and the nitrate of soda of
commerce are largely composed of nitrogenous matter, and I prefer the
former, as it is nearly or quite chemically pure, while the latter is put at
our disposal as found in the natural deposits, and is apt to contain ele-
ments more or less poisonous to plants when used in adequate quanti-
ties. I have noticed that when nitrate of soda was used wholly, the
tissues of the foliage and flowers are flappy, much the same as with cow
manure, and lack substance, so essential where blooms are to be staged.
It will be advisable where soda is more available, to use sulphate of
ammonia occasionally, or mixed in the same proportions as where
potash is used, this will harden the tissues and thus materially add to the
keeping qualities.

I previously alluded to the excessive use of manure in the early
stages of plant life ; and in the same connection I wish to caution
you in the use of liquid foods. Over-feeding at any stage is waste-
ful as well as injurious ; just as much as deprivation is debilitating.
"Would it not be better to supply in such quantities as can be absorbed
without injury, rather than pamper at any stage of growth ? How much
food each and every variety will use advantageously, can be ascertained
only by records taken each year, of both quantities applied and the
qualities of the results. It is certain some will be profited while others
will succumb with the same treatment ; and the constitution as it
appears from the root, stem and foliage standpoint, cannot be relied upon
with any degree of certainty ; for example, Mrs. E. W. Clark, which is
rather weak in root and stem growth, will flourish with more food than
Alberic Lunden, which is much stronger. The symptoms of excessive
food are varied, according to variety and the date when mistreated ;
such for example as triangular and twisted stem or trunk and contorted
petals, which often have the appearance of being burned or frozen. The
chemicals referred to may be used in our modern conservatories without
being offensive or objectionable in any way, as they are odorless, color-
less and tasteless as applied. This fact shows how easy it is to underrate
their strength, and overreach in those matters ; so, for fear some of you
may be too zealous, I will say, water is the only antidote I know of ; it

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

45

should be applied copiously at the first indication, and in aggravated
cases hot water will be more effective. When liquid foods of any kind
are used, great care should be exercised, for if the soil is dry the roots
are too active in absorption, and thus take too large a dose of the tonic,
which acts like strychnine on the human system.

The diversion of the natural inclination of chrysanthemums to hasten
or retard floral development may be of some value to you when the
flowers are wanted at a certain date. Early struck cuttings will set buds
early if abundance of air is given, and at the same time only sufficient
water to prevent flagging, as such treatment hastens wood ripening, thus
causing bud formation ; and the application of heat, as well as hot water
at the roots, will still further hasten the buds into flowers. In retarding
we must do exactly opposite to that which has been done in hastening ;
thus, strike late, keep wet and close with some shade — this will do the
work ; but all those details should be carried no further than appear to be
practical. In connection with this subject, I wish to say, chrysanthe-

I

: »*♦" "

■')

■■<

W

% \

. -■

W*'

v!

; .-*--.-'

'

Illustration No. 1. Illustration No. 2.

mums in New Zealand perfect their blooms in March and April. This
fact affirms the theory of hastening and retarding, and at the same time
teaches us it is not simply because it is November that we have chrysan-

46

PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

themums, but it is the atmospheric conditions that take place in the fall ;
hence, we can have chrysanthemums at any date, providing we can pro-
duce the required conditions.

The time is fast approaching when we shall have to consider the im-
portant matter of selecting buds. We have what are known as crown
and terminal buds, and as illustrations are more impressive than descrip-
tions, I have had engravings made representing those two forms of buds;
number one represents the crown, which, as you are aware, is formed
first, and if selected we must rub out all the lateral growths that are starting
from the leaf axles, as shown by the dotted lines. The greater part of the
flowers produced are from , -

terminals, as the late struck
plants seldom produce

i>_

crowns ; but for fear you
may select them without
knowing of their peculiari-
ties, I beg a few moments
for their consideration. In
England these buds are
taken or selected, as they
term it, earlier, as a rule
than in this country, owing
probably to the difference
in climate. According to
Messrs. W. & G. Drover &
Nephew, (W. Adams work)
of Fareham, Eng., those of
Pelican are selected as early
as July 2Gth, while those of
Etoile de Lyon are not taken
until August 28th to Sep-
tember 6th. I think on this
side there are very few se-
lected before September 1st,
and the greater part of them
from the 10th to the 15th. I
read you the first entry in
our diary of last year: Mrs.
M. W. Redfield, crown,
taken September 10th, fully
expanded Oct. 19th ; size,
five and one-half by five and one-half inches; height of plant, two and one-
half feet ; and then I find those of Emma Hitzeroth, Mrs. Robert Craig
and Harry Balsley were taken ten days later and were matured
November 1st. This shows us there was no difference in the time
consumed, as the first named developed sooner owing to the earlier

J\

Illustration No. 3.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS.

47

setting of its burl. It may be well to state, that those referred to were
hastened into bud somewhat, and encouraged at the last, with heat ; but
it shows, however, that our buds mature quicker than on the other side,
as it would be impossible for them to show flowers from buds taken at
our late dates. With the exception of a few varieties their experts pre-
fer the crown ; and this quite likely owing to the fact that they do not
care for foliage effect, as they show on boards, which necessitates cutting
the stem short. With us, a flower without its foliage is like a diamond
without its setting, for the greater part of our flower buyers exact long
stems with abundance of good foliage. This, I think, should be our

,

fj

f\

standard of excellence for cut
blooms. Where a premium
is offered without specifying
the type, then their merits
would be according to their
commercial value, as this
governs all products. Some
varieties produce better
blooms from crowns than
terminals ; but also, with a
few exceptions, have much
longer and stouter stems, as
is the case with Dr. H. D.
Hull, as shown in illustration
number three. You will no-
tice a deficiency of foliage
near the flower, which is
overcome iu number four,
where the terminal was
taken, and this is nearer our
standard of excellence.
Therefore we would conclude
terminals are preferable
where there is no great dif-
ference in size and form, ex-
cept those varieties having
a tendency toward weakness
of stem. Terminals require
less time in development and
will be ready for exhibition
nearly as soon as the crown
taken three or four weeks

earlier. Where crowns are selected, there is a tendency toward in-
creasing the number of petals, and it should not be indulged in only
where there is a deficiency. The Chrysanthemum Society of America
was organized for the purpose of improving the Golden Flower ; hence,

•»^

>

'./

€

Illustration No. 4.

48

PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

raisers of seedlings should avoid taking crowns, for, when disseminated
and terminals are selected for the sake of foliage effect and to meet the
requirements of America's ideal flower, there is sure to follow disap-
pointment to both introducer and buyer. On the other hand, we should
put greater energies in pollenization, to secure such as will give the de-
sired qualities from the terminals, for by so doing we are tending in the
right direction. In that way and no other can America lead the world
with her chrysanthemums.

To avoid being termed a theorist, you will pardon me if I refer to my
own productions by saying that the blooms of Niveus shown last fall were

ml

-^

from terminals,one of which
is represented life size in
illustration number five. If
you wish to take the term-
inal, rub out the crown,
leaving one or more of the
strongest laterals to grow
on; those will advance into
the final growth until inter-
cepted by nature, who to
enact her laws of reproduc-
tion, completes the struc-
ture with a bud at the end
of the stem, as well as from
the leaf axles, as represent-
ed in illustration number
two; by removing the weak-
er bud, we will greatly in-
crease the size of the flow-
er of those remaining; this
is termed disbudding and is
generally done as soon as
lar^e enough to determine
the most perfect one, and
also avoid its injury in re-
moving the others. The
dotted lines in the engrav-
ing denote those to be re-
moved and also the terminal which if perfect is considered the best and
should remain, but if injured in any way should be removed and the next
best taken. In disbudding begin at the top and work down, for if you
reverse this and should happen to break the stem when nearing the per-
fect bud, you will have none in reserve. As far as practical this should
be done in the morning, and on cool and cloudy days, for then they are
filled with sap and are more brittle, which makes it easier and safer.

As the bud swells, we are fast approaching floral embellishment ; it

Illustration No. 5.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 49

has burst and the petals continue to lengthen, until we behold its beauti-
ful color, large size and perfect form, this supported by a stout stem,
abundantly clothed with lustrous green foliage is the perfect exhibition
bloom of America, — thus we reach the acme.

President Smith invited discussion of the essay, and upon no res-
ponse being made, suggested that, as the business assigned for the even-
ing had been gone through with, the Convention should make way for
the meeting of the Chrysanthemum Society.

Mr. E. H. Michel moved an adjournment.

Mr. W. K. Harris, of Philadelphia, gave notice of the meeting of
the Chrysanthemum Society, now about to be held, and requested all
lovers of that queenly flower, whether members or those wishing to
become members of the Society, to remain in the hall.

Mr. Michel's motion prevailed without objection, and the Conven-
tion adjourned.

CHRYSANTHEMUM SOCIETY OF AMERICA.

Immediately after the evening session of the Society of American
Florists, the Chrysanthemum Society of America was convened in annual
session ; the President, Wm. K. Harris, of Philadelphia, in the chair.
Kobt. Craig acted as Secretary, pro tern.

The committee appointed last year presented a new constitution and
by-laws for consideration and the same were adopted. The annual
election of officers resulted as follows : Elijah A. Wood, West Newton,
Mass., president ; E. G. Hill, Richmond, Ind., vice-president ; E. D.
Smith, Adrian, Mich., secretary; M. A. Hunt, Terre Haute, Ind.,
treasurer. The next annual meeting will be held in Philadelphia, in
November next; the exact date to be fixed by the Executive Committee
to be appointed by the president.

SECOND DAY — MORNING.

St. Louis, August 10th, 1893.

The session opened with a comparatively full attendance ; President
Smith in the chair.

AWARDS ON EXHIBITS.

Secretary Stewart read, for general information, the reports of the
committee of judges on awards for exhibits in the exhibition rooms.
These reports will be found in full in the appendix.

50 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

GREETINGS FROM ABROAD.

Secretary Stewart made the following announcement : —

In accordance with a vote passed by the Executive Committee, last
winter, an invitation was sent to a number of prominent horticulturists
of foreign countries, inviting them to attend this Convention, if possible,
at the time of their visit to the World's Columbian Exposition. A
number of very complimentary and grateful letters have been received
in response to these invitations, which will be printed in the Annual
Report. One of these letters which is a good representative of the whole,
I have selected to read here ; and I will now, Mr. President, with your
kind permission, read it. It is from F. W. Buubridge, of the Botanical
Gardens, Trinity College, Dublin, and is as follows : —

Botanical Gardens of Trinity College,

Pembroke-Road, Dublin, July 28th, 1893.

W. J. Stewart, Esq., Hon.-Sec. Society of American Florists :

Dear Sir, — Many, many t banks for your genial offer of the good fellow-
ship and hospitality of your National Society of American Florists, and
I very deeply regret that so far as this year is concerned, I shall be
unable to come and claim your kind welcome.

But I feel none the less indebted to you, sir, and none the less gratified
at having the distinction of being invited by your great Society conferred
upon me.

I have many friends on your side of the water, Thorpe, Falconer,
Meehan, and a host of others, and St. Louis, Mo., would have delighted
me as your focus spot for this year, because there I should have had the
great satisfaction of meeting your Prof. W. Trelease, and of seeing that
great and sacred monument to Mr. Shaw, the Missouri Botanical Garden
at St. Louis.

I have travelled a good deal, mainly eastward, in my time, but believe
me, I hope to see your beautiful country ; the land of Columbus and of
George Washington and of Asa Gray, before I die.

We are rich here in the old world, especially rich in shrines of
intellect and in the antiquities of civilization ; but you are rich in another
sense, you are freed from so many of our old time shackles and traditions,
and you are ever pushing your boat's prow ahead into the mists of new
and noble learning.

I have seen a good deal of gardening, but I feel that to have not seen
any American gardening, and not to have met American gardeners
"at home" is a great loss indeed, and one to be remedied as soon as
may be. Kindly convey all to your Society. I could say more, — I could
not feel more their great and special kindness.

Yours sincerely, F. W. Burbridge.

The reading of the letter was followed by boisterous applause.

TO MEET AT ATLANTIC CITY, N. J., IN 1894.

The first regular order of business being the selection of a place of
meeting in 1894, the President invited nominations.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 51

Mr. Robert Kift, of Philadelphia : Mr. President, I desire to say a
word on behalf of the Philadelphia Florists' Club, in the matter of the
selection of the meeting place for the next Convention. We in Phila-
delphia, feel that we'are greatly indebted to the different Florists' Clubs
all over the country. I have personally attended the Conventions for
the last three years at Boston, Toronto and Washington ; and I know
that at each place we felt we could not have been treated better. When
the Convention met in our city, Philadelphia did all she could to enter-
tain her guests, but we feel that we have been entirely outdone since that
time, and we now want to pay this debt of gratitude we owe to other
clubs. I therefore move, Mr. President, that the Convention of 1894 be
held at Atlantic City, N. J. That place, at this season of the year, is
always very pleasant and cool. There you will be rid of all noise other
than the murmuring of the ocean, which is said to be music to the ear.
Furthermore, Atlantic City is near the great centres of horticulture. I
can assure you that if that place is selected, the Philadelphia Florists'
Club will do all in their power to see that the members of the Society of
American Florists are satisfied and pleased with their stay.

Mr. John Burton, of Philadelphia : Mr. President, I cheerfully
second the motion of Mr. Kift, and desire to say that the Philadelphia
Florists' Club will be only too glad to have the pleasure of acting as a
local committee for Atlantic City, there not being many floiists in that
city. The New Jersey people may think that in doing this, we are
encroaching a little upon their prerogatives, but we, in Philadelphia,
really feel that Atlantic City belongs more to Philadelphia than to New
Jersey.

The President expressed his readiness to receive other nominations.

No response was made, and on motion of Mr. J. M, Jordan, of St.
Louis, nominations were closed, when the selection of Atlantic City, N.
J., was ratified with entire unanimity.

officers for 1894.

The nomination of officers for the ensuing year being next in order,
Mr. E. G. Gillette, of Cincinnati, O., addressed the Convention and
said : I rise to present to you and place in nomination a gentleman
whom we all know ; one who has done as much as any other man for
this Society ; one who has worked unselfishly for it for a number of
years ; one who has not come here seeking a nomination or election to
the office of President. The gentleman to whom I refer is Mr. Myron
A. Hunt, of Indiana. [Applause.]

Mr. J. M. Jordan, of St. Louis : Mr. President, I rise for the pur-
pose of putting in nomination a tried friend, who has stood by the Society
and done noble work. I would like to have this matter fairly and squarely

52 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

passed upon by the members of the Society. I put in nomination our
dear friend, Mr. Anthony, of Chicago. There are no words of eulogy
needed, I think. [Applause.]

Mr. D. B. Long, of Buffalo : I rise to nominate a gentleman whom
we all know but uot as well as we wish we could know, — Mr. John
Burton, of Philadelphia. [Applause.]

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Indiana : Mr. President, it gives
me great pleasure to second the nomination of Mr. Myron A. Hunt. I
do not think there is any question that he deserves to be President, and
we all know he will make a good one and be a credit to the Society.
[Applause.]

Mr. P. J. Hauswirth, of Chicago, seconded the nomination of
Mr. J. T. Anthony.

Mr. W. K. Harris seconded the nomination of Mr. John Burton.

On motion of Mr. \V. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Indiana, seconded by
Mr. F. J. Filmore, of South St. Louis, nominations for President were
declared closed.

Mr. Myron A. Hunt here came forward and, addressing the Con-
vention, said : There are times in the lives of men when due considera-
tion should be given to opinions that the truth should not at all times be
spoken ; and there are times, I believe, when the whole truth should be
known. I have been approached in previous years for my consent to
stand as your leader, and I have as often refused. The place is one I
have never coveted — it is a place I have never desired ; not that I do
not think it is the highest place within the gift of this Society, — a
Society that has done much for the elevation of our business, — a Society
which has placed us on a plane, 1 think, above almost any other industry.
[Applause.] By entrusting me with your finances in the past, you have
honored me beyond anything that it has been in my power to return to
the Society. I have thought that these honors should be passed around.
On the present occasion, had the expression come to me that it was your
unanimous wish that I should stand as your leader, I would have taken the
position as a duty. I feel that it would be a burden, still the Society has
honored me so much that I was willing, as I have always been in the
past, to give my best thought and my best time to its interests. [Ap-
plause.]

I thank you, gentlemen, for this expression of your confidence in
placing me in nomination for President ; aud while the nomination is
not an election, I desire to have no conflict with anyone. You have be-
fore you two other candidates, either of whom will do you honor ; and
you will allow me to withdraw my name. [Cries of, "No, no."] I
shall positively decline, gentlemen, to have my name used as a candidate.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 53

The President here announced that the nominations for Vice-
President were now in order.

Mr. E. G. Hill nominated Mr. Robert Kift, of Philadelphia.

Mr. W>i. K. Harris heartily seconded the nomination.

No other name was mentioned, and on motion of Mr. E. G. Gil-
lette, nominations for Vice-President were declared closed.

For Secretary for the ensuing year, Mr. John Thorpe nominated
Mr. Wm. J. Stewart, of Boston, Mass.

Mr. C. W. Turnley, of Haddontield, New Jersey, and others,
seconded the nomination.

No other name was mentioned, and on motion of Mr. F. Kennicott,
of Chicago, the nominations closed.

For Treasurer the only name mentioned was that of Mr. Myron A.
Hunt, of Terre Haute, Indiana, whose nomination by Mr. J. M. Jordan,
was greeted with applause.

successful rose growing.

An essay upon the " Science and facts of successful rose growing,"
by Mr. R. F. Tesson, of St. Louis, Missouri, was here read to the Con-
vention by its author, and was much applauded. The essay was as fol-
lows : —

In accepting the request made by your Executive Committee to read
a paper before you today upon the above heading, I did so with a feeling
that there would be many members among you who are much more con-
versant with, and better able to handle the subject than I. Still I also
recognize the fact that when called upon to prepare something of this
kind it becomes a duty that we should acknowledge and perform.

In treating the subject, I will be forced to confine myself to the
growing of the so-called tea roses, to the exclusion of the hybrid per-
petuals, as I have had no experience with the latter class, and will give
the results of observation as well as experience wherever they have com-
mended themselves strongly enough to deserve a trial.

Science, in a general sense, may be said to consist of knowledge, or
the understanding of facts by the mind. Science, therefore, applied to
successful rose growing would consist of known facts, which from exper-
ience have been found to be essentially important in accomplishing the
end the " rose grower " is striving to attain. This end, as I under-
stand it, is the production of roses, good roses, and of the maximum
quantity and quality, during the winter season. The statement of facts
that are known to tend towards the accomplishment of the above results,

54 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

or the science of it, brings me to the practical details connected with the
subject.

To produce good results in any line of business or manufacture, we
must have good tools and materials to work with, and the same is
emphatically true of rose growing. The houses should admit as much
light as possible, and be provided with ample openings for ventilation,
even though they be used only during the warm summer months. The
heating should be so arranged that the temperature can be kept at fifty-
eight or sixty degrees during the severe weather, I mean at night ; it
being useless to try and succeed where the glass goes down to from forty-
live to fifty degrees.

To grow roses, we must have plauts and even before this cuttings, it
being to every grower's interest to see that he starts with clean healthy
stock. Such when placed in the sand will root quickly, and start off well
when potted. There has been considerable written about cuttings,
whether they should have one, two or three eyes, or whether better made
with a heel. I am of the opinion, however, that provided the wood is
in the same condition, and receives the proper attention and care, there
will be little difference in the result obtained for the plants during the
season. It is of much more importance to have the wood in the best
condition, rather I ban have large number of eyes present. The cuttings
should be made late in the winter and early spring months, according to
the time wanted for planting, and placed'in about three inches of sand hav-
ing a bottom heat of sixty-five to seventy degrees, with a cooler top, where
they will root in from three to four weeks. As soon as the roots are from
one-half to one inch in length, they should be potted in two and one-half
inch pots ; be careful to keep the air in the propagating house fresh and
sweet by ventilating whenever possible, but avoid all drafts as they are
detrimental to the cuttings, especially so to Beauties.

The best soil to use for the first potting is well-rotted sods, which, if
inclined to be heavy will be improved by the addition of some sand ;
manure of any kind in the soil at this stage is of no benefit. As soon
as potted stage in a sunny house, and see that the first watering is
properly done ; have all the soil moistened, but avoid having it mud ;
shade for a few days until the roots take hold of the soil, after which
gradually expose to the full sunlight. The}'' can be kept warmer than
the general run of stock, eighty degrees not being too high on sunny
days ; give plenty of air but avoid drafts ; syringe on all favorable morn-
ings, and early every afternoon go over and attend to whatever requires
water.

As soou as rooted through, and the roots commence to work around
the sides of the pot enough to hold the soil together, they should be shifted
into three-inch or three and one-half-inch pots, it being a mistake to wait
until the plants are pot-bound before shifting, as they thereby receive a
check. From these they should go into four-inch and five-inch, if neces-
sary ; shift into the larger pots and use plenty of • drainage rather than

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 55

have them become pot-bound in the smaller size. Soil for everything
but the first potting can be the same, and should have about one-sixth
part well-rotted manure worked in, as well as a good sprinkling of bone-
meal. Care should be taken at all times to see that the plants are not
dry ; some soils are quickly covered with a green scum which should be
removed as often as necessary, it being impossible to tell the condition
of the soil beneath it without knocking the plant out of the pot, and this
is to be avoided as much as possible. I find the best time to look over
pot-plants to be early in the afternoon, as it is easier to tell then what
requires water.

Planting should be done as early as possible, June being the gener-
ally accepted month. It is reasonable and should be understood that if
we wish to cut a quantity of buds during the winter season, we must
have strong plants to do it from, and the only way to get strong plants is
to give them a season's growth. Those desiring to hold their old roses in
during June can accomplish nearly the same result by carrying their
stock for replanting in live-inch pots, thus having them all advanced
when planted. The use of strong, healthy stock and early planting is
without doubt the most essential factor connected with " successful rose
growing," and if properly attended to renders the remaining work easy
of accomplishment ; while the use of poor stock gives the grower up-
hill work all the season, and in the end is often unsatisfactory.

Before placing the soil in the benches see that they are well cleaned
out, and give a coat of crude oil or some other preservative. Any good
soil will do, sod being preferable where it can be obtained. I have seen
soil plowed to the depth of sis inches, and all of it used with excellent
results. About one-sixth part of well-rotted manure and a good sprink-
ling of bone-meal should be well mixed with the soil before using, by
turning the pile several times ; a regular formula for mixing or com-
posting cannot be given owing to the wide diversity in the character of
soils, but if inclined to be heavy the admixture of sand will be bene-
ficial.

If the plants are strong, place about four and one-half inches of soil
in the benches, as it will settle to three and one-half inches after having
been there some time; should they be weak, three inches or three and one-
half inches would be better. Level the bed up as soon as planted, and
water so that all the soil is moistened. If the beds are inclined, the
higher portions will show a tendency to become dry as the top soil settles
and becomes firm, this will necessitate stirring the surface. We use for
this purpose a small hoe, and attempt to go over the beds at least once
every ten days, thus keeping all weeds down and enabling one at a glance
to see the condition of the soil. The plants are syringed every morning
during favorable weather, and what requires water is attended to early
in the afternoon, the same as the pot plants. Stake as soon as possible ;
there are many ways of staking, but I prefer a single upright support to a
plant, either a stake or a wire as may be most convenient. After being

56 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

tied a light mulching is beneficial as it prevents the soil from drying out
too quickly, and encourages root action towards the surface ; as the
mulch wears away a heavier coat can be applied, which should be con-
tinued during the season. As the plants gain strength and need food, a
liberal sprinkling of bone-flour in the mulch will be beneficial.

Considerable has been written in regard to the advisability of carry-
ing roses in shallow beds, or on benches, more than one season ; and I
think in the near future there will be much more written regarding it,
if the system is not more generally adopted ; certainly if roses can be
carried two and even three years in the same bed successfully, there is
considerable time and labor lost when thrown out yearly, as well as the
saving in growing stock for replanting. Now, if as we all know, there
are places where this system is being and has been pursued successfully for
years, we must lay the fault of various failures, not on the system, but on
the persons carrying it out. There must have been a flaw somewhere, some
detail that was omitted, or something that was not done properly. The
method adopted is to gradually dry the plants off until they have had a good
rest, without, however, having the bark shrivel. You would be surprised
at the amount of drying a rose plant can stand when done properly, and
still remain sound. After having been rested, say two weeks from the
time water was commenced to be withheld, all the small, weak wood
should be cut out and nothing left but the strong canes ; these should be
shortened back to about a foot or eighteen inches. The plants are
then watered and started into growth, a mulching of about an inch
of composted soil is then spread upon the bed, and they are treated the
same as the younger planted stock. Great care must be taken, however,
in watering. Owing to the lack of foliage very little water will be
required. Syringing should be given every day, and in very warm
weather a damping down in the afternoon is beneficial. As the new
growth pushes out and the foliage increases, they will require more
water, and should be watched closely ; too much water will turn the
foliage yellow and probably burn the edges of the leaves. "Where
solid beds are used, the best results have been obtained where the
amount of soil was very little more than that used in benches, say
six or eight inches. An old idea has recently been revived and
tested in this connection with excellent results. It consists in the appli-
cation of bottom heat to the soil in which the roses are growing, by
means of pipes passing beneath it ; this allows the free syringing and
watering during the short days of winter, the inability of doing which
has led, in a great measure, to the abandonment of the old solid border.

It has been found advisable not to rest some varieties, such for in-
stance as, Perle or Gontier ; they are better kept growing and in August
having all the small wood removed, after which the heavy canes instead
of being cut back are bent down, thus insuring numerous breaks. The
objection to having them cut back close is their inclination to throw
heavy stems terminating in clusters of buds, many of which are useless.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN" FLORISTS. 57

The manner of treating a variety with regard to drying off or keep-
ing growing will have to be decided by the person in charge forming
their opinion from the style and habit of growth it presents. To make
the resting of roses a success, it must be done thoroughly and early in the
season, so as to give them time to make their growth, the same as the
young stock, before the short days of the fall season appear. I think
Brides and Mermets, in fact most all varieties can be carried the second
season in the same manner as Perle, simply by cutting out small wood in
the summer ; much care will have to be taken, however, with the water-
ing. This plan I have never seen applied to benches, but will attempt
it next season.

Manure water can be applied in the fall, provided the plants are as
strong and vigorous as they should be, and can be used with advantage
about every ten days or so during the winter season ; should the plants
. not appear to be able to receive it to advantage it would be better to
rely upon the mulching and what is in the soil to carry them through
the winter months, commencing its use in January or February as the
days begin to lengthen. At this time, too, plants that have been receiv-
ing it since fall can take it a little oftener, say about once a week, and
will also be benefited by working into the mulching some dried blood,
" ground tankage," or so forth. In applying liquid manure the beds
should be in a condition to require watering, and it should be given
thoroughly, so that it shows through the bench. A change in the
ingredients is also beneficial, and soot, guano or other fertilizers may be
used in turn. Where any large amount is required, it is a great advant-
age to have some place where it can be mixed in quantities and dis-
tributed wherever needed. The best thing to use for this purpose is an
ordinary cistern, as it can be used at all times, being out of reach of the
frost, and if large enough to hold a supply for two weeks, a good day
almost always occurs for replacing what has been used. Upon most
large places, some provision of this kind is made, but it could be done
more generally to the advantage of all.

As fall approaches, firing must commence, it being very poor policy
to put this matter off too long ; as soon as the glass goes to fifty-eight
degrees in the houses, heat should be applied, even if the ventilators
have to remain slightly open. I prefer a night temperature of sixty
degrees for most all varieties, and at times run it higher for a few days
without any bad effects. The difference between roses grown at sixty
degrees and fifty-six degrees is scarcely noticeable, while the quantity cut
I think is increased. Firing should continue in the spring the same as
in the fall, as long as there is danger of the glass going below fifty-eight
degrees. The necessity of firing in spring and fall is very often over-
looked, and is attended with disagreeable results.

Watering and airing are the two most essential factors in the grow-
ing of roses after they have been planted, and I wish some fixed rule
could be laid down for the guidance of all, as here is where most failures

58 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

are made, but it is impossible, and the use of water must be regulated
by the person having the plants in charge. I wish to make a distinction
here in regard to watering and syringing. It is believed, in many places,
that watering and syringing are the same, differing only in the amount
applied. If they want to syringe, the foliage is given a slight wetting ;
if they want to water, the foliage is given a good wetting, enough falling
upon the beds to constitute a watering. This is entirely wrong, as it is
impossible to get the beds uniformly moist, or to pick out the dry spots
while this system is pursued. A syringing should consist of a small
amount of water applied with enough force to keep the plants free from
spiders, and to moisten and freshen up the foliage without having any
amount fall upon the soil ; when syringing is performed in this manner,
it is an exceptional day that it cannot be performed, and have the house
dry by night. In watering the stream should be turned upon the soil
and no attempt made to moisten the foliage ; every bed should be care-
fully examined during the morning in the winter season, and whatever
requires water be given it. In examining the benches, it is advisable to
have a sharp piece of iron or wood, something with which you can go to
the bottom of the bench to find out its condition, as the appearance of
the surface will often mislead one. At times the benches will go several
days without water, and again spots will be found that will require water
for several days in succession, showing it to be imperative to examine
them every day. I think a mistake is made very often by keeping the
benches too dry in summer. The plants after having taken hold of the
soil, and with the amount of air given at that season, can take plenty of
water. It is an advantage to have the water used in the winter warmed
to the temperature of the house, and if possible there should be some
arrangement for doing so. Soils are different and require different treat-
ment in regard to water as well as other matters, and it should be the
aim of eveiy grower to study and understand his soil.

Air should be given upon all favorable occasions, and as much
as possible, avoiding, however, all drafts ; too much air is as injurious
as too little, and the knowledge and skill necessary to attend to it
properly can only be acquired by practice and observation. During the
summer they should have air day and night, as the cooler night air tends
to toughen the foliage, rendering it more impervious to disease. During
the winter months, air should be given every bright day, even though
heat is necessary to keep the temperature where required. During
winter and spring it is a rare thing for us to have the heat shut off the
houses during the day, and even though there may be six or eight inches
of air on at the time, this air keeps the foliage strong and healthy. On
bright days the glass is kept at from seventy-five to eighty degrees ; on
what may be called half-bright days, or times when it is hazy or cloudy,
from seventy to seventy-five degrees is maintained, and on dull, gloomy
weather sixty-five degrees is carried. It will require considerable time to
keep the air properly looked after, as it often requires shifting every

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 59

half-hour or so ; but it will pay to attend to it properly, and in making a
change it is better to go over it twice rather than make a big shift of it
so as to save time.

Insects and fungi will think you have been fitting up a paradise
for them, and will proceed to locate if steps are not taken to check them.
Mildew is best guarded against by watching for drafts, or anything that
would tend to give the plants a check. In the winter, sulphur applied to
the heating pipes is the best preventive ; in spring and fall, powdered
sulphur or fostite dusted on the plants will check its spread. Black spots
affect some varieties of roses badly; keeping the house free from moisture
during the night and burning of all affected leaves will keep it in check.
Red spider can only be fought with water ; it should be applied with
enough force to make the habitation disagreeable, and he will depart ; a
dry, warm atmosphere is his delight, and he can generally be found
around in the corners where the air does not circulate or the syringe
reach. Green fly is probably the best known insect enemy of the rose,
and is very troublesome where given a chance ; luckily, however, it suc-
cumbs to tobacco in almost any form, either the fumes when stems are
laid in the houses or the smoke when they are burned. Lately an article
known as "extract of tobacco" has been placed on the market, and
from experience in treating a house that was allowed to get pretty badly
infected, so as to make a good trial, I can assure all it is a success. After
the applications it was hard work to find a fly anywhere, and it was six
weeks before the house received another treatment. I feel confident that
the extract used once a month will keep any place clean. The rose bug
raised quite a noise some years ago ; but since the practice of replanting
stock every year has about become universal, it is almost lost sight of, as
it requires more than a season for it to do much damage ; hand picking
is the ony safeguard. Thrip appear in the spring of the year, and when
they come it is in such numbers that they ruin a house of flowers in no
time ; they puncture the petals, causing the tops to turn brown. As far
as has been learned nothing has any effect upon them ; they hide around
in the base of the petals where nothing can reach them ; they come from
the outside, as they can be found on the grasses and weeds as plentifully
as in the houses. White grub often ruins whole benches of roses by
eating off the roots. The, best way to counteract this evil is to carefully
examine the soil and manure used for planting the roses in when turn-
ing it, and kill all that are found. If, during the summer, you notice a
plant hanging, while those around it are doing well, search around the
roots, and the chances are that you will find a bug there. Nematoids,
the cause of club root, have only recently appeared in such quantities as
to make them dangerous to rose growers. There appears to be no way
to get rid of them after they are once established in the plant ; the only
safeguard is to treat the soil in some way so as to kill them before it is
brought into the houses, either by spreading during cold weather so as to
freeze it, or heating. I think, probably, as they exist on the living roots

60 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

of plants, piling the soil for a season, so as to kill all vegetable matterT
might starve them out.

After having brought your plants into flower, they will require cut-
ting and sending to market ; this is a branch of the work that requires
the most careful attention, for if our output does not reach the market
in good shape, all hope of compensative returns for our work vanishes.
The cutting should be done by a careful, painstaking person, and should
always be done by the same party, as different roses require to be cut at
different stages of development, and these can only be learned by prac-
tice. Cutting should be done twice a day, morning and evening ; at
times, however, they will require attention and going-over at about
eleven o'clock. After being cut, they should be sorted, and each grade
placed separate ; stand in a cool room or cellar, with the stems in water
until wanted for use.

In packing, take care to have them properly placed, no crowding or
bending of stems should be allowed ; but they should be snug enough to
remain stationary while in transit. It is a great advantage to have your
stock make a good impression when unpacked, especially in times of
abundant supply. If soft paper is wanted, use " tissue manila ; " avoid
wax paper as it bruises the petals. Have your stock graded into first
and seconds, even though there be very few seconds. The advantage of
having a uniform grade of goods and nice appearance has been long
recognized in other lines of business ; but this knowledge seems to be
sadly lacking in our profession.

I would like to say in conclusion, systematize your work as much as
possible ; let each man have his allotted duties, and hold them to their per-
formance ; attend to all details ; see that nothing, however small a matter,
is slighted, as the sum of small things makes success. Keep your plants
growing and avoid all checks ; and as much as we think we know about
roses, 1 venture to assert that no one as yet knows the capabilities or
possibilities of the rose plant.

The President remarked that many rose men were present and that
the audience would like to hear from them any facts they desired to
communicate.

Mr. Myron A. Hunt, of Terre Haute, Ind., said : Mr. President, it
seems to me that such an important matter as the subject before us
should not be allowed to go by without discussion. We are not swelter-
ing away here in this delicious atmosphere for the fun of the thing ; we
are here for information, and that information is only brought out by
discussion.

First of all, I wish to thank the essayist for the valuable paper he has
given us. It shows the possibilities in our line of business. A few years
ago, when this young man (Mr. Tesson) had reached his majority, his
health failing him, he availed himself of the best opportunities he could

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 61

for study and for observation, and the result is not only as you see it in
his paper, but as you see it in a more practical way at his home — he is
on top. [Applause.] I congratulate him. I wish there were hundreds
of just such young men who had the snap and the enterprise to go into
this matter in a practical way and master it. The trouble is that we have
so many men, in our line of business, who do their work so imperfectly ;
and they not only throw upon the market an imperfect stock, which few
want, but they are doing themselves a permanent injury by growing an
inferior class of stock.

There are two points in the essayist's paper which interest me. One
is as to the retaining of the same plants for the second and third years'
growing. Notwithstanding the weight of evidence, according to the
essayist, is against my skill as a grower, because I have failed in that
system while some have made it a success, I would say in all candor to
every grower, to go slow in growing plants without renewing them. It
means so much if we lose a whole crop for the year. If any one is
inclined to experiment in that way, let him do it on a small scale until
he has the matter well in hand and is sure that he is not hazarding in
that experiment a crop which might bring him hundreds of dollars.

The other point touched by the essayist and on which I have a word
to say is the use of the extract of tobacco for the extermination of insects.
I had some experience with that for the last twelve mouths. Those of
you who were at Washington are aware that an experiment was made at
Strauss & Co.'s. That experiment led me and some others to investigate
the matter independently. The essayist stated that he had let a house
get in bad condition for the purpose of giving the remedy a thorough
trial and, after that, he did not have occasion to use it again for six
weeks. I will not endorse any such practice as that because I do not
think it is right, and I do not think the extract should be used in such
strength as to be able to destroy insect life after the insects have been
long neglected. Then, again, it is somewhat doubtful whether all are
killed by the evaporation. While I have seen no injurious effects arising
from the vaporizing of the extract of tobacco, I believe that in this, as
well as in everything else, the remedy should be used in as small doses
as possible. My own practice is to use it once or twice a week and to
apply it in small quantities. In that way I have been able to keep down
all insect pests that usually infest greenhouses. [Applause.]

Mr. C. W. Turnxey, of Haddonfield, N. J., inquired whether, in
heavy soil, the addition of a small portion of oyster-shell lime would be
beneficial to a compost of sod for roses.

Mr. Tesson : In our soil here a limestone rock crops out at any-
where from ten to fifteen feet of the surface. I do not think that in our
soil, such as that with which I have had experience, lime would have any
beneficial effect at all.

62 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Mr. Turnley : I alluded to a heavy soil.

Mr. Tesson : I think where the grower has a heavy soil, one with
considerable vegetable matter in it, the lime would be beneficial in help-
ing to decompose the organic matter.

Mr. Turnley : That is my impression.

Mr. J. L. Dillon, of Bloomsburg, Pa. : I thank the gentleman
very much for his essay. It seemed to me, as the paper was being read,
that the methods pursued were similar to those adopted at our own place.
There is one exception that I take to the essay. Where the roses are
dried off and cut back to be started again, our system is at variance with
that of most of the trade. We give a thorough soaking and keep them
wet for several weeks. We find, when this is done, that the young roots
start out and take hold the same as in the cutting bench. When the soil
is only moderately wet we have often found that the fine roots are apt to
die ; that the leaves of the young growth turn yellow at the edges and
the young shoots die.

There is another point in the essay, in regard to which I do not
believe the essayist practices what he states, and that is in regard to the
running steam pipes underneath the rose beds. I have in my house two
three-inch main steam pipes running underneath my rose beds. They
certainly throw out a great deal of heat, but in the several years we have
had the pipes there, I have not noticed any difference in the growth of
the roses as between those in the centre, over the pipes, and those over
the sides. It seems to make no difference in our place.

Mr. Tesson : I would say, in reply, that when the roses are started
into growth, they are given a good soaking, enough to make the water
show through. After that they are kept moderately dry, but the soil is
kept in a good growing condition, though not by any means wet.

In regard to placing steam pipes under the beds I may say, that I
have never tried it, but I saw, this last season, a letter from a place
where it has been tried. That letter was rny authority for my statement
in the essay. The letter said that the time between crops, in the months
of December and January was five weeks. I think that is pretty good
evidence that something must have hurried them up.

Mr. Dillon : I will only say that our people keep them quite wet,
not moderately dry as some others do. I may further say, that I also saw
the letter referred to by the gentleman (Mr. Tesson) in regard to heating
underneath the benches.

Mr. J. M. Jordan, of St. Louis : I regard the point now presented
as quite an important one. The company with which I am identified
has had some few years' experience in the line of rose growing set forth
in the essay. If I was growing roses exclusively for the market here, I

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 63

would not think of carrying over a last year's rose ; but we grow almost
exclusively for our own use, and therefore must calculate to have a
supply to suit the demand in our own trade. When we carry over any
roses on the bench, they consist very largely of Niphetos (which is an
excellent rose to grow in a border), Perle, La France and Albany.
Those comprise about all the varieties. The Mermet, the Bride, aud
other varieties of this type have not been found with us to be valuable
for carrying over, or even to grow in an open border, as they deteriorate
after the first year.

Mr. Jordan said further that, instead of letting them stand in the
bed solid, the plants were taken out of the bed and put into new soil,
leaving some of the soil around the roots partly dried, so that they could
be moved more readily. In regard to the Mermet and Bride, he said,
the young roses far surpassed the old ones ; that is, more blooms were
obtained from them during a season than from those that were trans-
planted or which it was attempted to bloom the second year.

Referring to what the essayist had said in regard to preparing soil,
the speaker said there was a great deal in this, but there were old-
fashioned things that he did not regard at all. We cultivate, he said, by
plowing up a patch of soil, half an acre or so, putting on quantities of
barnyard or other manure, and plowing the soil a number of times during
the summer. After being worked up for perhaps a year, it is brought to
the greenhouse by the cartload, and shoveled into our benches. Now,
there are many little points about drying off roses. I think the Tea rose
does not gain much by drying off, I think it should be kept continuously
growing. There is La France and those other roses I have mentioned —
we have to have them in our business, and the only way we can rest
them is by carrying over. As to others we do not dry them off so that
they would have what might be called " a rest," we either transplant
them and keep them growing or throw them out, and put some other
plants in their places.

In regard to the insects spoken of, I do not know that we used a
fumigator at all last winter, and I do not know that I saw a green fly
during the winter. Our effort is to prevent the insects from coming, as we
regard prevention as better than cure. We do not evaporate tobacco
juice and seldom burn the tobacco, but we put in large quantities of
tobacco stems under the benches and let these remain there as long as
they have strength. This is the cheapest way for us because we get the
tobacco stems in large quantities by merely hauling them.

I throw out these suggestions, as it might be assumed that the rule
set forth by the essayist is one which we are all following here. Of
course our friend is engaged in growing principally for the market and,
having no store, has necessarily to supply florists ; therefore with him
the conditions are different. What I have said gives you another idea.

Mr. Tesson : I would say, in regard to a statement made by Mr.

•64 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Jordan, that we aim to get our roses in the winter time ; and if we could
not get as good or better results from two-year stock we would not grow
them. We get more roses off two-year stock than we get from one-year
stock. In regard to shifting, I may say, that we shift from one bench to
another ; but whether you shift from a bench or hold it in is immaterial,
that does not change it.

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Indiana : I cannot agree with our
friend Mr. Jordan, in what he says about carrying old roses over. In the
last winter I gave this matter a fair trial. When I went to Kokomo first
it was late in the season, and it was September before I could plant my
roses ; consequently I did not get much out of them until late on towards
spring. They then looked in such good shape that I did not like to pull
them out. Therefore, I dried them out in the summer, and ran them over
the following winter. I made another experiment in the cutting back of the
roses. In the centre of the bench I cut back a few about nine inches
from the soil. These did not do so well as the others that had been just
thinned out, or the thin wood taken out, or clipped back slightly. Those
that I cut back thoroughly did not do well at all, but the others did splen-
didly and surpassed any both in quality and quantity of bloom. The
Mermets were planted on a side table, and the only trouble I had was
that they grew so strong that it was difficult to keep them away from the
glass. They had to be constantly tied down. The Brides, which were
grown on the centre table, had plenty of head room and were far superior
to anything I bad on the place. They really did better than, the Mer-
mets. I never saw better Brides in my life. I remember calling Mr.
Hill's attention to them when that gentleman was visiting my place
last winter.

While on my feet I wish to say a word about the white grubs. Some
five or six years ago I was bothered very badly with them. The way I
managed to get rid of them was to put the soil in the house, and to close
the house up tight for two or three days, the result being that the exces-
sive heat of the house killed every grub in that time.

I do not know whether our friend (Mr. Tesson) made a mistake in
regard to the hour mentioned by him for cutting roses. He gave eleven
o'clock as the time for cutting. I suppose he means eleven o'clock in
the morning. I think that is a mistake, — that it is about three or four
hours too late.

In regard to the use of tobacco stems let me say this : Some few
years ago, Mr. Hammond, of Philadelphia, explained that his method to
keep geeen fly away was to fumigate the greenhouses twice a week by
drawing through the greenhouses an iron pan in which he had placed
lighted tobacco stems. Since then I have adopted the same plan, and I
And it does not injure the roses a particle. If you let your plants be-
come overwhelmed with green flies it may be difficult for you to fumi-
gate sufficiently to get rid of the flies without injuring the plants ; but

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. \ I 05

AwiCSfea £.

if you apply the remedy in time, and continue the applicante^^jtJTiCTspi
week, no green fly will ever be seen.

Mr. Tesson : I think the gentleman (Mr. Coles) failed to under-
stand my statement. I stated that cutting should be done in the morn-
ing and in the evening, but that at times they would require going over
at eleven o'clock. In other words, at times you require to cut three
times a day, and at other times twice a day.

Mr. Coles : I misunderstood you.

Mr. W. H. Elliott, of Boston : I would say, in regard to carrying
roses over the second year, that my experience has led me to practice
transplanting always. I had never considered it safe to attempt to carry
roses over, on three or four inches of soil, for two years in succession. I
have always transplanted them and have put perhaps about an inch and
a half of fresh soil under the plants. Mr. Jordan speaks of not being
able to do anything with Mermets and Brides. Those are the roses which
I have transplanted principally. Those give me, I think, better flowers,
when transplanted in that way, than before. In regard to carrying over
the Perle, that is a rose that I do not grow at all at present. In my
experience in growing them I did not attempt to do much because they
did not seem to thrive in my soil. The Papa Gontiers I never considered
it necessary to carry over.

In regard to the size of plants to be used and the time of planting,
Mr. Elliott said if growers wished to cut flowers from their plants
during August and September, their plants would need to be of pretty
good size and very early planted, whereas if they did not wish to cut
flowers off the plants until the chrysanthemums were out of the market,
(which was the principal condition under which the speaker grew them,)
the plants did not require to be planted until considerably later, or with
early planting, smaller plants would do.

The discussion here closed.

express rates.

Miscellaneous business being in order, the President called for a
report from the committee on express rates.

Mr. P. O'Mara of New York, on behalf of the committee, responded
as follows : —

Ladies and, Gentlemen, — You are all more or less familiar with the
result of the committee's work. We succeeded in obtaining a rating.
I cannot exactly quote it, but, in general effect, it is the same as that
which the express companies allow for produce. It is, I believe, the
lowest rate known to the express companies. Plants boxed tight so
that there is no trouble in handling them are to be taken at the general

66 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

special rate, wherever specials are enforced ; that means between leading
points — between, I believe, New York and Chicago, New York and St.
Louis and other large points as to which there is competition. Each
company establishes a special rate which, I believe, is somewhat elastic.
We succeeded in getting goods to St. Louis and Chicago at about forty-
five per cent, below the old merchandise rate. But to points where
there are no specials in force there is a general reduction of twenty
per cent. It is imperative, however, that the plants must be packed
close. It will not do to have plants standing up in a box so that they
must be carefully carried and cannot be turned over and handled quickly.

I suppose it is hardly necessary for me to burden the Convention
with the details of the work that was done by the committee. I may say
that, after the committee got together at Washington, last year, we saw
at the outset that the work before the committee was to be done in New
York. There is where the officers of the express companies meet and
where the traffic association make their business arrangements. I
memorialized the traffic association last November. At their January
meeting our case was thrown out of court. Ascertained then they were
to have another meeting in April, and I got at them again. At that time
they made a rating takiug in strawberry and vegetable plants. I was not
satisfied with that. I thought if they could take those they could carry
all plants at the same rate. I got at them again at the June meeting,
when they gave us the rating which you all know of.

Now, this rule has gone forth, as I understand it. I cannot name
exactly all the express companies which have adopted it, but I think
they may be specified as follows : the Adams, the American, the United
States, the National, the Pacific or Wells Fargo, the Northern Pacific
and the Southern Express Company. The New York and Boston (which,
I believe, is an off-shoot of the Adams Express Company), will of course
rule as the parent company rules. As to the Long Island Express —
well, they have a monopoly and they hold it. [Merriment.]

It is imperative, I think, for every member of the Society, either
when sending out plants or getting them in, to obtain the regular rate
from their local agents, to find out what it is per pound, and see that the
agent makes the proper charge. It may happen that when new rules
are distributed, the agent will file them in a book without looking at
them, and, as a consequence, he will charge at the rate previously in
force, thus depriving you of the benefit of any reduction. Therefore, it
is necessary for you to see that your local agent is made aware of the
reduction which has been made on plants. Perhaps you are all acquainted
with the modus operandi in such matters ; but I suggest that the remedy
for an over-charge may not be reached by merely writing to the general
office when you have been dealing with the local agent. If a box comes
to you with rates charged on it which you know are not in accordance
with the new rating on plants, pay the charges, make a formal protest,
and insist that that protest shall be forwarded to the proper office. If
that is done I think you will always get redress. [Applause.]

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLOEISTS. 67

Mr. E. G. Hill, of Richmond, Indiana : Mr. President, I think we
are all indebted to this committee, and to Mr. O'Mara in particular. He
has done us a grand and good service. I know, that immediately after
the traffic managers made this new rate, it was communicated to our
office at Richmond, and we get our goods out now at a reduction of
twenty per cent, from former charges. This is a great and grand thing,
not only for the shippers of plants, but for those who receive plants
and pay the bills . I think that a mere vote of thanks is too formal a
thin^, and that we ousrht to <nve the committee some substantial token of
our appreciation of the good work they have done.

Mr. J. T. Anthony, of Chicago : Did the gentleman move a vote
of thanks ?

Mr. Hill : I did not ; but I will do so now :

Mr. President, I move that a special vote of thanks of the Society be
extended to the committee on express rates for the very efficient manner
in which they have discharged the duty devolved upon them.

The President : The chair understands, that in the absence of the
chairman of the committee (Mr. Grant), the report made by Mr. O'Mara
will be taken as the report of the committee, as that gentleman was.
delegated by the committee to represent it.

A vote being taken, Mr. Hill's motion was adopted with great
applause. .

MR. JOHN BURTON DECLINES.

Mr. John Wescott, of Philadelphia : Mr. President, I have been
requested by Mr. John Burton to come here and withdraw his name as a
candidate for the Presidency. He states positively that he will not be a
candidate nor accept the nomination. I therefore beg to withdraw his
name.

ROUTINE BUSINESS.

Secretary Stewart here made sundry announcements with refer-
ence to the election of state vice-presidents by state delegations at the
close of the morning session ; relative to local hospitalities, etc.

On motion of Mr. J. M. Jordan, an adjournment was ordered until

THE AMERICAN ROSE SOCIETY.

Immediately after the morning session of the Convention, the annual
meeting of the American Rose Society was held in the hall ; the President,
Mr. Myron A. Hunt, of Indiana, in the chair.

Comparatively few members were present.

68 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

President Hunt stated that at the time of the Convention in Wash-
ington, a meeting of the Society was held at which a suggestion was
made that premiums be given for the raising of new varieties and that a
corporation be organized. No action, however, was taken, but, at a
subsequent meeting held at Pittsburg, Pa., a constitution and by-laws
were drafted and these were finally sent out. The Secretary pro tern, at
the latter meeting, Mr. Beatty, was unavoidably absent at this time
but, as a call for the present meeting appeared in the program of the
Convention, it seemed that some action should be taken today. The
question of the propriety of proceeding with the organization at this
time, in the absence of many who were equally interested with those
present, he left to the good judgment of the meeting.

Mr. E. G. Hill moved that the whole matter be now deferred and
placed in the hands of a committee to consist of Messrs. M. A. Hunt,
Robert Craig and John Burton.

The motion was adopted without debate, whereupon the meeting
adjourned.

During the afternoon a large number of the members of the Conven-
tion, many of whom were accompanied by ladies, visited the Missouri
Botanical Garden, by invitation of the trustees of the Garden. They
were met at the entrance by Director Trelease and, after being escorted
through the grounds and given an opportunity to inspect the grand col-
lection of rare plants, partook of a collation under the trees. . A photo-
graph of the visitors was afterwards taken on the lawn. Before departing
the guests complimented Director Trelease with a round of cheers, to
which he responded in a few pertinent remarks.

SECOND DAY — EVENING.

At the evening session, President Smith in the chair, the Conven-
tion was entertained with essays and discussions upon two interesting
topics.

HORTICULTURAL EXHIBITIONS.

The first essay was by Mr. W. G. Bertermann, of Indianapolis,
Ind., upon " Horticultural exhibitions : How to make them successful."

In the absence of the essayist, who had sent an apology for his
inability to attend, the paper was read by Secretary Stewart and elicited
general applause.

The essay was as follows : —

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 69

Mr. President, Ladles and Gentlemen, — When requested some time
ago by your Executive Committee to deliver up what I knew, or what
my ideas were on horticultural exhibitions, and how to make them suc-
cessful, it seemed to me at the time an easy matter ; but when actually
at work the job grew in importance, and to some extent, beyond my
ability to handle the subject in proper manner. You will therefore have
indulgence should my attempt not come up to your kind expectations.

Before commencing, it would be well to divide my subject into three
parts : first, trade exhibitions ; second, exhibitions for artistic effect ;
third, exhibitions for profit.

Trade exhibitions : These, as I understand it, are simply to show to
the retail trade by the wholesaler their different specialties in their differ-
ent lines. These exhibitions, in connection with our annual Conven-
tions, have grown in importance, and also are improving in the number
of exhibits and the quality of goods shown. They are of great value to
the retailer ; and it is astonishing that a great many florists from certain
cities and states are not better represented here at these annual gather-
ings, to learn and see what is new in the horticultural world. A great
many say : " O, well, the commercial travelers come around to see me,
and sell me anythiug that is new in their line, and they tell me all about
the Conventions ; and some tell me that the trade exhibit is a humbug,"
etc. Now they are mistaken I am sure. Very likely they are afraid
that the retailer would go to a convention and trade exhibit, and find
that better goods are in the market than this certain agent has to sell.
While it is not absolutely necessary at these trade exhibits to have
elaborate decorations ; still they should have a finished and clean appear-
ance, and that can only be had by a systematic arrangement of the space
assigned for that purpose. Each separate exhibit if finished up nicely
in correspondence with the balance will be more effective than goods set
up with no apparent desire to please the eye. When visiting the World's
Fair notice the difference in displays. Isn't it pleasing to the eye to see
an exhibit finished with elegant surroundings, — draperies, etc. ; and
then another exhibit just simply the goods set down, maybe some muslin
flag stuff, or other cheap material, to finish up with. Do not fail to make
a note of this, and you will see that the foreigners make the best show-
ing in that regard. I might mention that it is the same as show win-
dow displays. I have noticed, especially in Germany, that the show
window is the store to a great extent. A good show window will attract
attention and bring in the customer. Of course, after we have the
customer it depends on the merchant if he can keep him. A good,
well arranged and finished display will attract the customer. Now is the
time for the salesman to do his part. If he is a good one, and wants
to keep a customer he will sell him what he actually has in stock,
or knows he will have ; but there are cases, and I am sorry to say, there
have been at our trade exhibitions that goods were sold from the samples,
but never came up to them in quality when delivered. Of course these

70 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

things will always occur more or less. It gives the unscrupulous
merchant a temporary advantage, but he is found out, and the whis-
pered complaints will come to his ears, or he will find out when his sales
are falling off. The trade exhibitions are generally open to the public
free of charge, and this should be taken advantage of by the managers
to have the room or hall inviting, and see that all exhibits are given at-
tention during the days of convention. I do not think it advisable to
charge admission to these exhibits.

Exhibitions for artistic effect : This is a subject of great import-
ance. The exhibitions are generally given for the purpose of showing
the public the advantage of floral culture, and also how flowers can be used
to the best advantage, and most artistic effects. In arranging for these
exhibitions do not lose sight of this fact. We must have a committee on
decoration, and a committee on arrangement of displays. They must
work together to give the whole exhibition an artistic and finished
appearance ; especially is it necessary that the first view in coming inside
the hall must be so as to give the visitor a chance to say, "Ah!" But how
can we give the hall this appearance ? can we do it with cheap muslin
flags, with Chinese lanterns, or other cheap material, that can be seen
every fourth of July or on other holidays? What are three hundred
dollars spent in decorations (new and novel) if by that means we can
inspire the visitor to say "Ah! " Certainly the plants, the flowers, and
other displays must also be first class, but these can be viewed at leisure
when in the hall proper. At the first glance the general effect must be
so striking, and also so greatly different from the last exhibition that the
visitors will be delighted instead of disgusted, saying as they leave the
hall, "oh, nothing better than the last time," or "the same old chestnut," —
excuse my slang. This general effect (if taken for granted that every-
thing else is in keeping), will be worth many dollars in advertising the
next exhibition. The remembrance of this view will go with the visitors,
while minor displays will fade from their memory.

After giving the visitor this good impression let us see what we have to
show him in detail. He will naturally want to see the flowers and plants
first. Here we have a display of well grown, large, beautiful plants of
chrysanthemum or other blooming plants ; there a symmetrical, exquisite
small bed of single stemmed chrysanthemum plants ; here a fine group of
tropical plants ; there a specimen palm on a high pedestal, sides hung over
with vines, etc. Now we come to a low table of well arranged selection of
cut flowers in bowls and vases, the table covered and hung on sides with
clean white muslin. Between the bowls and vases ferns, smilax, and
asparagus, always kept in fresh condition, or replaced when needed.
Then comes a table of those large chrysanthemum blooms, delicate in
color and feathery petals, a show in themselves. Then comes a table of
beautiful roses in suitable bowls or vases, intermingled with andiantum
plants ; this table will fascinate many. Then comes the orcbid display,
either arranged iu a cave, or in exquisite glassware, backed with a large

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 71

mirror, or they could be arranged on a mossy green bank, anything so
they cau display their full beauty. Wherever your visitor turns, some-
thing new should greet his eye. In one corner of the hall the flower
booth should be located, nicely arranged, decorated with taste. The best
flowers that are in the market should be on sale, and of course by all
means have a few good looking young ladies to sell the same. These
should be competent. Generally daughters of members attending the
exhibitions take a pride in helping to make the flower booths a success.
I find that a great many plants can also be sold in the flower booths
during the exhibition, especially where there is an attendance from a
distance. After the visitor has taken a look over plants and flowers he
will hunt for a place to sit down. Now, it is fortunate, of course, if you
have a suitable hall that has a gallery with a good seating capacity ; if
not you must make arrangements to reserve part of your floor space for
chairs and settees. A corner here, a small space there, for a few chairs
in under some palm, or in a doorway not used, are excellent places to
take a rest. Now the music comes in for a share of attention. Orches-
tra music is, I find, the best for flower shows. Take the best music you
can get, it will be appreciated. Sometimes some special feature in the
musical program will more than repay the cost of it in increased
attendance. I find that you cannot get too many special features in your
exhibitions, taking for granted that they are suitable. Now our visitor
will make a second round of the hall. Here he will notice a corner of the
balcony trimmed up exquisitely with drapery held up by smilax, aspara-
gus, or wild smilax. Above a few leaves of southern palms hanging
over, a bit of decoration that he has never seen before, it is something
that he will remember. There is a draper\r along the balcony of a banner
caught up also by some greenery and palm leaves, that is a painting in
itself. Then again you will find the American flag showing its colors in
harmony with the close surroundings. The stars and stripes are grand,
but sometimes they bring disharmony in a well arranged decoration.
The visitor will now take a peep at the stage decoration (if there is one.)
This is generally a hard job, especially when the funds are limited.
Still it must be done, and must be done right, it helps to make the general
effect. A woodland scene representing autumn, or a background of solid
green draped over with blue dotted with stars. Words of welcome
or a motto will be a new decoration for the drapery in front of the stage.
If the ceiling of a hall is high, and there is a suitable place for a centre
piece, something should be thought of in time, and be ready when you
begin, either a large bell, a canopy, etc. This will give you a start.
From this you can arrange your laurel wreathing. Florida moss,
large balls of palm leaves, pampas grass and moss make effective over-
head decorations. Some say all this is not needed. I am always afraid
to leave out the finishing touches to an exhibition. The entrance to the
hall should require the decorators' attention without fail. The street as
well as the vestibule must be profusely decorated, it is an advertisement

72 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

in itself, and if finished right stimulates others to imitate. Whatever
else there is about floral exhibitions must be considered as coming from
the florists' trade, and the public judges accordingly. If artistic arrange-
ments, excellent flowers, the visitors go away pleased and will imitate,
but if an everyday affair, and a don't care policy is followed, no visitor will
think of imitating, and will think twice before attending when the next
show comes around.

Exhibitions for profit : The first question is, must we make
money out of our annual exhibitions ? No; I think not, but enough should
be taken in at the doors to cover all expenses. To do this several ways
are pursued. Speaking for myself, I am in favor and always have
been, of making an exhibition an artistic effect, no matter how the
result would be at the end in a financial way. The show, or exhibition
must be a success in regard to excellence. I think if that can be done it
pays the profession, while it does not at the end leave a surplus in the
treasury. It will, however, prove a financial success if not abandoned
too soon. It is the same way in starting a business of your own, it must
have a beginning, sometimes a very small beginning indeed. If you are
not giving your customers entire satisfaction you will find you are mak-
ing slow headwa}', and probably give up in disgust ; but on the other
hand, if you are giving satisfaction at all times you are sure to get along
and b}' and by make a comfortable living, and probably have something
to spare. I remember well when our society held their first exhibition
seven years ago. We had great expectations. One member enthusi-
astically pronounced, that in case we made a good surplus, it should be
used to provide young florists all over the state that were not able to
provide means themselves, with funds to attend the annual conventions.
Everything was arranged to have a great exhibition, and the committee
and a good many members expected to see the people crowd into the
hall the opening night ; but what was our surprise when barely enough
came to make a sprinkling between the beds of plants and tables. The
following days and evenings the attendance increased, but not near what
was expected, and this in spite of the glorious description given in the
daily papers of our undertaking. Some of us felt sick at heart not to
have made it a greater success in the way of attendance. But consider-
ing that everything has a small beginning, we consoled ourselves that the
next exhibition should show a better result. We have kept on, our re-
ceipts increased, but our expense also increased. The exhibits, with a
few exceptions, showed great improvements. The decorations showed
that experience from past exhibitions had given us better ideas of taste
and variations. We also found that it was necessary to do more elaborate
advertising, especially as we intended drawing on country attendance.
We now have arrived at the point that the public expects and awaits with
pleasure our annual exhibitions. To some extent it is the social event
of the season among the well to do. This is the class of people we must
depend on in the first place, gradually drawing in those that would rather

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 73

see anything else than a flower show. I don't mean to say that our at-
tendance consists only of the rich ; not at all, but these are the visitors that
must set the example, not to say the fashion.

Right here I would advise all managers of exhibitions to make the ad-
mission not less than fifty cents, in the evening especially when you have
good music, which sometimes alone is worth the admission. The point is
well taken that twenty-five cents would be easier for a certain class of peo-
ple, but have you uoticed that you get many of them? It may be the case in
some cities, but our experience is that the majority of visitors are well to do,
and belong to the social world. We must educate them to the point that a
beautiful show cannot be prepared at great expense and be seen for twenty-
five cents. You will keep this class of visitors away with a cheap admission ;
but if you wish to draw the general public for the evenings, one night
might be set apart for a twenty-five cent admission. I take it for
granted that those admiring flowers, and who really care to see a floral ex-
hibition, and at the same time can hear a good orchestra, will be found to
willingly pay fifty cents in the evening. During the day I would advise
at all times a twenty-five cent admission ; if possible, some music in the
afternoons to break the monotony, which is invariably found in a hall of
any dimensions, f. advocate a cheap admission during the day because
if you have any outside of city attendance at all, they figure on the ex-
penses coming on the railroads ; then you have a great many that bring
their children to see the show ; also a great many ladies alone attend
during the day, and generally purchase a plant or a few cut flowers to
take along with them. But the main point is, that the evening exhibitions
have a certain fascination. The light on the whole, especially the effect
of electric light on the flowers ; the music ; the rich costumes of the
society visitors ; the general good feeling makes the evening attendance
much more desirable — and it is worth the admission. Don't listen to
the grumblers, some are always around no matter if your admission is
only ten cents. Children under twelve years I advise admitting free at all
times. A complimentary ticket to all teachers of the public schools will
be found a great help, — and generally teachers are found to be great
lovers of flowers, — and they will advise their pupils not to miss letting
their parents take them to the flower show. Why not use the word
festival instead of show or exhibition? My idea is that it sounds better,
and gives a better impression to the minds of the public.

Advertising a floral festival is something that needs careful atten-
tion. It has been shown that some committees spend a good deal of
money, some spend little, others don't think it is necessary to spend any
at all. They think that the papers ought to do that free of charge. I
think different. Some newspapers have the faculty of booming every-
thing that comes along, no matter if it is worthy the admission price or
not, and consequently the public gets fooled several times, and they do
not listen to papers at all, and in this case other means must be taken to

74 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

advertise the festival. Again, some newspapers if they do not get a share
of advertising do not mention anything at all, others might talk flat
against your interests. The principal newspapers should be given a good
sized advertisement, others only a few lines, or a small space for the
week of the festival. Of course the reporters and editors must be taken
care of. On this point much has been said, and it is the committee's
fault if the descriptions next day are all in a heap, misspelled, misnamed
names, probably only a short space devoted to the festival and other
unpleasant items, purely the neglect of some committee member appointed
to take care of the press.

Advertising by issuing a souvenir has been found by some com-
mittees an excellent idea. Soliciting advertisements from merchants, if
they are given willingly is all right. But this souvenir business has
been overdone, so that instead of helping our cause, we step on a great
many toes by bothering merchants about "ads" which the majority claim
do not do them any particular good. I believe it, except the souvenir is
something extraordinary aud in this case is out of our reach. A good
supply of neat window cards, some money spent with the bill poster,
slips divided among members and merchants to put in their letters, and
many other ways can be found of bringing the festival before the public.
Special premiums are a great help to the committees if they are given
willingly, but we find if merchants and others must be (we might say),
forced in giving them, the value is partly lost. Especially are the wholesale
dealers in out trade backward in committing themselves to one, afraid
that they might be called on by many others. This is of course their
look out. I take it for granted that a well arranged, successful festival
directly benefits the wholesale dealers, may be specialists in chrysanthe-
mums, roses, carnations, tropical plants, or orchids. It is to their
interest, and to the interest of every florist in the land, that every
festival should be a success and not a failure as so many are.

This brings me to the second part of "Exhibitions for Profit." I have
explained my ideas in regard to making festivals an artistic success if
not a financial one. Now let us see how others think a festival could be
made a financial success, not thinking probably that it is necessary to
make it artistically successful, or that a general impression when entering
the hall is needed to make our visitors at home and give them something
whereby to always remember our annual festivals.

Certainly I believe money could be made by advertising big and prom-
ising great things, and then disappointing your visitors, especially society
people, by showing them something inferior than they have seen before.
They go away in a bad spirit. They will talk against your festival
probably with a sneer. Can you expect them under these circumstances
to see your festival next year ? I am afraid not. If the committees
lose sight of the fact, that the general impression, favorably received,
is half the success, they will make a fatal mistake. It is not supposed
to be a trade exhibit, where the plants could be put on rough tables in

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 75

an empty looking room or hall, a few cheap flags very likely strung up in
the corners or over the stage. It must be a floral festival and exhibi-
tion in the full sense of the word, that is why tbe general impression
when entering the hall is needed to make a lasting remembrance to the
visitor. Our county and state fairs would be very much more successful
if the managers would pay more attention to the grounds in making them
more attractive, and if the buildings are built cheaply most of them can
be made presentable on the inside and outside by using some decorative
material, giving the whole a festival appearance. Some money spent in
this direction is not thrown away, but will form to make a lasting im-
pression. At any great doings in the cities the cry is, citizens decorate
your business houses and dwellings, give the visitors a great welcome,
make them feel at home. The same way it is with exhibitions, make
your visitors feel at home. The World's Fair is a great teacher, as I
have mentioned before. What is a display ? It may be in quality superior,
but it is lost sight of if not placed where the surroundings will attract
attention, and how can you do that ? By using draperies and decora-
tions, elegant, something extraordinary. Now I do not say that the
committee of a festival should go into extravagance in the way of decora-
tions of the hall. In many instances a great deal of money is used for
that purpose, and still the purpose is not accomplished. Of course this is
a fault personally with the decoration committee, the decorator, or some-
times with the space to be decorated. I think those societies and others
holding exhibitions are on the right road by using all the efforts to make
these shows and floral exhibitions, Floral Festivals in the full sense
that the word implies.

It will always be a disadvantage to the trade, and will reflect badly
if exhibitions are advertised to be grand, and unusually attractive, when in
fact they are of the same old style, no general plan, nothing attractive
about the whole, the competition however, lively, consequently lots of
quarreling after the awards are given, which disgusts a great many
visitors. They get tired of these things, and consequently the attendance
is not what it should be. More general displays, and less competitive
displays is my plan for future floral festivals. A great deal might be
yet said about the judge system, the displays of designs, promises given
by those early in the season to attend, who when the time comes step
back, making necessary other arrangements. These are all items for
the exhibition proper. While they help to make the exhibition eutirely
successful they are out of reach of my paper, and can be touched on in
some future effort by some one more competent and having had more
experience. My experience with exhibitions has been limited, conse-
quently most of what I have said are personal suggestions.

I hope these will be of some benefit to committees of future exhibi-
tions, and I thank you Mr. President, ladies and gentlemen for your
courteous attention.

76 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

The President invited discussion.

Mr. E. A. Seidewitz, of Baltimore responded: He said he assumed
the privilege of speaking on the subject because, of recent years, the
shows in Baltimore had been successful, and he could speak from per-
sonal experience. The old Maryland Horticultural Society had been
financially unsuccessful, and although it had tried its "level best," the
Baltimore growers, in nine cases out of ten, did not receive the premiums
that were promised. The shows consequently dwindled down to nothing,
the old society became defunct, and the work was taken up by the Balti-
more florists.

He continued : We were aware of the mistakes that had been made
in catering too much to the society people ; and with respect to what the
essayist said upon that point, I would like to differ with him. The old
society tried in every way to cater to that element, and yet did not suc-
ceed with its shows. Upon that point I may say a few words later ; but
I desire now to call attention to the matter of advertising.

I consider that liberal advertising is the main requisite of a success-
ful flower show. Here, gentlemen, let me impress upon you one thing,
and that is, never expect to get anything for nothing. It will not do to
go to a newspaper and simply say : " We will give you news when you
give us a description of our shows." We must take into consideration
that space in a newspaper counts for so much money. We must not go
to them and say : " You send your reporter down, we will give you plenty
of news." That is wrong. In Baltimore we go to a newspaper proprie-
tor, — Mr. Abell, of the Sun, for instance, — and say to him : " We wish
to invest so much money in advertising. " Well and good. Our offer is
accepted, and the space to which we are entitled by the amount paid is
given to us. We goto all the papers alike, — it does not matter how
small the paper, we believe we must go to all of them. When the show
opens they send around their reporters ; and I have seen those reporters
work there the whole day, with the assistance of the committeemen, in
preparing correct and creditable descriptions of the show. I may say
that to the newspapers of Baltimore we owe our success financially ; and
I would like to impress upon you, gentlemen, that the newspaper in this
country is indispensable in making the flower shows of America suc-
cessful.

Then, again, we adopt a method not unlike that followed in the
theatrical business. We paste up all over the town a placard telling the
people there is gowing to be a show. We had last year special cuts made
for that purpose, — something very attractive. We place these placards
on the cars and in the store windows ; we give complimentary tickets in
order to have this done. We do not ask anyone to do anything for noth-
ing ; we believe in paying everybody.

A word now as to the matter of arrangements. We found that the
old horticultural society had made the mistake which so many societies

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 77

make, of entrusting their affairs to too many committees. Gentlemen,
this also is a point of vital importance. You may say, " Mr. So-and-so
is to go on such a committee ; " and when the time comes you will find
that the gentleman does not turn up, that he has no spare time, too much
business, etc. That is all wrong. When we went into the arrangement
of our show we took that point into consideration ; we said that the men
we placed at the head of our show must, in the first place, have time ;
that they must make use of that time, and do this not for themselves, not
to promote their own interests, but to promote the interests of the club.
To secure this being done we must give them some recompense. We
have found after a thorough experiment, that the best method of pro-
cedure is to appoint a committee of three, and let them have full control
of the show. This committee consists of a chairman (who is also the
treasurer), a secretary and a chairman of exhibits; and each has his
definite work. The chairman of the committee has full control of the
money affairs of the exhibition as soon as it is opened ; the secretary,
whose work is to be attended to beforehand, arranges for all the adver-
tising, the contracts for music, electric lights and all such details ; the
chairman of exhibits has sole control of the decoration of the hall. In
thus systematizing the work we avoid trouble and do not conflict with
each other. We do not allow the club to say a word in the meantime ;
they must keep quiet until the show is over, and if there is any " kick-
ing " to be done it must not be done until then. Consequently, the work
of the committee is not pulled to pieces by the whims of the members of
the club, because we elect committeemen who are capable and responsible.

In regai'd to the efforts of the old society to cater to the society
people, I may say, it was thought that if a charge of one dollar was
made, we would have the patronage of the most select and refined
people, — they were the monied people, it was thought. But did they
come ? I believe New York had an experience in that respect, in its
spring show of 1891. I may say that, while we do not ignore the society
people, we believe in a twenty-five cent admission rate. We believe the
society people themselves ought to have enough love for flowers to in-
duce them to attend. We believe in spreading a love of flowers among
the masses, and this is why we make the charge twenty-five cents.

Above all things, gentlemen, 1 would advise you never to exagger-
ate in the description of your show. We believe the main thing is to
give all visitors their money's worth. The twenty-five cent rate is, I
think, sufficient to pay all expenses of the show ; and this we have done.
We give a souvenir to every visitor, not as a mere advertising matter
(though we receive the benefit of the advertisement), but as a keepsake,
something that will be preserved. Being secretary of our committee, I
have in view this year, an arrangement for publishing on the souvenir, a
description or story, by one of the best growers in Maryland, of how he
grew his chrysanthemums, thereby enhancing the value of the souvenir
permanently.

78 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

I wish to add, that we are much indebted to our President, Mr. W.
R. Smith, for our ideas of how to make the shows of Baltimore success-
ful. It was through his instrumentality that we received many points.
Among other things, he gave the reporters of Baltimore such stories as
the " Monkey Thistle," the " Mother-in-law Plant," etc. At our show
on the day after Mr. Smith told the reporter about the " Mother-in-law
Plant," all the people wanted to see that plant. [Merriment.] I will
close, gentlemen, by simply repeating my remark, that in whatever you
do, do not expect anything without you pay for it. [General applause.]

Mr. Frank Huntsman, of Cincinnati, was the next speaker. He
complimented the essa}ist (Mr. Bertermann) as one whose thorough
familiarity with the exhibition business would enable him, if he were
present, to keep on talking about it for the entire evening and without
exhausting the subject. The speaker said that, although he had been
more or less connected with successful exhibitions, he did not rise to
discuss the subject, but to say that he regarded the essay as not only
instructive and interesting but very practical, and as one of the best of
its kind ever presented at any meeting of the Convention. He thought
that Mr. Bertermann's statements might be taken as a sort of pen picture
of the annual autumnal floral exhibition given by the Society of Indiana
Florists. He said he knew, from conversations with different store
men about Indianapolis, that those exhibitions had done more toward
building up in that city a love for flowers and increasing the pecuniary
returns of the florists (which, he thought was a consideration of prime
importance to all present), than all other agencies combined. He asked
that what Mr. Bertermann had said about the artistic phase of exhibitions
should be carefully noted. For one, he believed that, if an exhibition
was an artistic success, it was of little consequence that its promoters
came out a few dollars behind. He thought that every member would be
well re-paid by a perusal of the essay when it was printed.

Mr. J. T. Anthony, of Chicago : Upon one point brought out in
the essay I would like to say a few words, and that is in regard to the
price of admission. That is a point that will have to be regulated by
every city and town for themselves. I do not think there are any two
cities that would always be able to pay the same price. I have no doubt
that in Baltimore, as has been stated by the gentleman from that city
(Mr. Seidewitz,) a twenty-five cent admission maybe all right. We tried
it in Chicago, where I have acted as treasurer at a number of exhibitions.
I noted the exact attendance upon each occasion and kept a correct
record of the amounts taken in on every day on which there was a floral
show in the city of Chicago, within recent years. I do not refer to the
shows held in the far distant past, as I know nothing about them, but I
do feel confident that I can speak of the practical results of recent exhi-
bitions. I have found that a certain class of specialties bring out the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 79

people ; that, for instance, cut flowers far surpass the plants as attrac-
tions. Whenever we have special features, especially table decorations
or mantel decorations, we can bring out a large attendance of the society
people. We have charged, in most of our shows, twenty-five cents.
For the last show we had we charged fifty cents ; and at the latter figure
we had within a few, some dozen or so or less than a dozen, of the same
attendance that we had when the charge was twenty-five cents. At the
rate of fifty cents for admission we get twice the amount of money that
is realized from the lower rate and yet have the same number of visitors.
Which then will you have ? Certainly, as to Chicago, I would say,
" Give me the fifty cent show," because we have the same attendance
with double the receipts. [Applause.]

Mr. E. G. Hill, of Indiana : I know the hour is getting late, but I
will not detain you, Mr. President, more than a minute. I am delighted
with that paper of Mr. Bertermann's and am proud of our State Society.
He has reflected his own opinions regarding the holding of exhibitions,
and I know that in the matter of decorations he is very emphatic. Some
of our people in the state of Indiana have differed with him, but I am
inclined to think that Mr. Bertermann is right and that time will prove
he is right.

Now, we have not made any money in these exhibitions. We
started about seven years ago and our gross receipts, at the first exhibi-
tion, were SI, 100 while, last year, they were $3,400, I believe, and yet
we were $100 behind on account of our expenses. We have (I think I
can say it with pardonable pride), a good show at Indianapolis. There is
only about 130,000 of population there, but we started out to make the
shows interesting, and the people of the state, whom we have interested
in them, come every year in great numbers. I think that our show in
Indianapolis will compare favorably with that of any city in the Union,
even with that of Philadelphia with their many advantages, such as their
grand Horticultural Hall.

Mr. Hill here went on to say there were two or three points upon
which he felt he must give vent to his feelings tonight. He referred to
an instance in an eastern city in which newspaper reporters had un-
successfully importuned florists connected with an exhibition to furnish
them with information for publication. He thought this was not the way
to treat the press upon whose co-operation as an advertising medium so
much of the success of exhibitions depended. He reminded his hearers
that the newspapers were all powerful in this country ; that the florists
could not afford to ignore their aid ; that, if they attempted to run flower
shows without newspaper aid they might as well "shut up shop " and
go down in their pockets. He believed that if the managers of an exhibi-
tion would write a description of it or furnish the facts about it, stating
things truthfully and telling the public what was to be seen, or even
indulging in a few flights of sentiment, the newspapers would publish
these matters as beinsr of interest to their readers.

80 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Another point, one which had been followed out in Indianapolis,
was to invite the mayor of the city to come out to the exhibition and
make a speech. This might be called " an old chestnut," but the speaker
said he thought it necessary for florists, like other trades-people, to be a
little adroit and to show some tact at times. He continued : —

We also expect to have the governor of the state to talk to us, at the
opening of our show. What will be the result ? The newspapers cannot
ignore a speech either by the mayor of the city or the governor of the
state. This may be equally true in any other city or state. The result
is that you get a notice of your show of a column or two in length, which
costs you nothing. Then why not avail yourselves of these opportuni-
ties ? 'We are going to try another experiment this year. We have
interested the State Horticultural Society, and they are going to make a
joint exhibition with us. We want the people to come there, and they
will come.

I say that the shows are the main means of educating the public in
our business. We must carry them on, and the sooner we learn how to
carry them on the better it will be for our profession and our country.
We cannot afford to give them up. I tell you it is a shame and a stigma
upon any florist club in this country to lag and drag behind in the hold-
ing of these shows after once starting them. If we in Indianapolis, with
130,000 population, can make these shows successful, why cannot the
clubs in the larger cities that have half a million of population do the
same thing? Let them reflect that in attaining success they educate
the people ; and unless we can educate the people and show them the
beautiful things we cultivate we cannot expect to make that progress
which we are entitled to make in this country. [Great applause.]

On motion of Mr. W. J. Boas, of Philadelphia, a vote of thanks was
ordered to be tendered to Mr. Bertermann for his interesting and valuable
paper.

The discussion here closed.

NEGLECTED PLANTS IN OUTDOOR DECORATIONS.

The second essay of the evening was by Mr. James Gurney, of the
Missouri Botanical Garden, upon " Old and neglected plants worthy of
more general use in outdoor decorations."

Mr. Gurney read his essay, as follows : —

Mr. President, Representatives of the Society of American Florists,
Gentlemen, — We welcome you to our midst, we fully appreciate the honor
you have conferred upon us in having selected St. Louis as the place in
which to hold this Convention.

Circumstances appear to render it necessary that we should thus meet
and inquire if floriculture is today up to that standard of excellence of

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 81

which it is both capable and worthy. A spirit of dissatisfaction and un-
rest has taken possession of many of our enterprising American florists.
The general inquiry is : " Are the decorations of our parks and gardens
entirely satisfactory ? " There appears to be something radically wrong ;
or, why are we so earnestly inquiring after the old and worthy but
neglected plants. Is it possible that so many of our American florists
should so constantly visit those old spots where those old plants form
such an important part of the decorations of today and pass them un-
noticed, knowing at the same time that new additions to our present
collection suitable to the prevailing method of planting are so carefully
sought after. But how few additions have been made to the old lists
since this mode of decoration was inaugurated ! Some few however
which used to hold prominent positions in this work appear to be missing
from our. present list, among which are Gazania splendens, Zauschneria
Californica, Anagallis coerulea, Lotus Jacobeus, Senecio elegans, Myo-
sotis dissitiflora, Calceolaria angustifolia, Liuum flavum, Linum grandi-
florum, Linum narboneuse, Oenothera macrocarpa, Salvia patens, Sau-
vitalia procumbens, Catananche bicolor, Cacalia coccinea, and it may be
some few others. One might well ask : why are such plants omitted by
us ? It is very probable that many present could say they had experi-
mented with them time after time, only to be met by failure. It therefore
appears that we have to make ourselves satisfied that our parks and
gardens should still remain to be only monotonous repetitions of them-
selves, for nature seems to be unable to supply us with what we con-
sidered to be suitable or acceptable additions to our present few. We
are therefore selecting the very few and utterly ignoring the thousands
of the beautiful of Nature's productions. Let us see how Nature arranges
matters for the pleasure of her lord and master " man," and I am inclined
to think she has outdone us in her undertaking. She has well studied
man and has found him to be a fickle fellow, constantly changing and
constantly needing a change ; she therefore arranges that at the first breath
of spring, and in some cases not waiting to develop foliage, numbers
of her floral treasures shall burst into spring beauty. How pleasing, after
a long, dreary winter, to be assured of the approach of spring by the
violets, daisies, buttercups, hepaticas, snowdrops, Evanthis hyemalis,
phloxes, erythroniums, Anemone nemorosa, epiinediums, arums, trilli-
ums, iris, smilacinas, uvularias and a host of other little harbingers of
spring. Would many of us who have homes and gardens wish to enjoy
these things, we would have to leave our own, and visit Nature's gardens
and shrubberies and we would soon become convinced that our mode of
gardening was not as it should be, for while she is filling us with spring
pleasures, our gardens are only dreary places. But this is only a first
installment, for new sources of pleasure are developing and very shortly
a part of her shrubbery show their beauty, while between these we find
delphiniums, thalictrums, aquilegias, echinaceas, coreopsis, Oenothe-
ras, mimulus, hibiscus, baptisias, lupiuus, Rudbeckias, asclepias,

82 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

lobelias, Monardas, liatris, silphiums, centaureas. These with many
lead us on to the fall, where she presents to our view her whole collection
of asters and solidagos and at the approach of winter she retires to rest
and prepare herself for future service.

There are many of this class of plants which were considered worthy
of notice but appear to be classed among the old and worthy but neglected
ones. Dianthus barbatus, Digitalis purpurea, Auomatheca cruenta,
Anthericum liliago, Luuaria biennis, Campanula medium, C. pyramidalis,
Humea elegans, Statice latifolia, arborea and floribunda, Gentiana acau-
lis, Aconitum napellus, Dictamnus fraxinella, Glaucium luteum, with
others equally beautiful in their season. Why so persistently follow only
our present mode of decoration and thus materially shorten our season
of pleasure and lose the charm of variety. Man has perfect liberty to
roam over Nature's vast domain and gather in of her choicest products,
but how often are they passed by unappreciated. Is it because we deem
them common, or have they committed that heinous crime — grown old?

The essay was listened to with evident interest and was much ap-
plauded.

President Smith stated that discussion of the subject was in order,
and added : We are honored by the presence of a gentleman whose name
is a household word in every intelligent gardening home in America. I
allude to Mr. Nicholson, Curator of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew,
England ; editor of the dictionary that bears his name, a book of great
value to horticulture. Those of us who have had the opportunity of
friendly intercourse with him are in doubt which more to admire, his
modesty or his rare scientific attainments.

The chair would like to hear a word from Mr. Nicholson, if possible,
on this subject.

Mr. George Nicholson, (of the Royal Gardens, Kew,) upon rising
to respond, was cordially greeted. He said : —

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, — I am in a remarkable tight
place. Several times, since I landed in this great country, I have almost
wished I was an American — I will tell you why by and by — but I never
completely wished it until the present moment. I have noticed that
Americans, no matter in what tight places they find themselves, always
come up smiling, and they are born orators. I would rather run a mile
than talk a minute for I don't know how to do it. I thank you, Mr.
President, of course, for the complimentary terms in which you have
spoken of me but I think if I had known that this would occur I should
probably have had an urgent engagement a few miles away. Did I under-
stand you, Mr. President, that you wished me to say something about
this paper ?

(After a renewal of the request by the chair, the speaker continued :)

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 83

Many of the things that have been mentioned by Mr. Gurney are by
no means neglected by us, I mean in the old country. We grow them
very largely, they are still favorites and always will be. Since I have
been in this country I have wondered that some of your own native plants
are not more largely grown for decorative purposes than they seem to be.
There are some very beautiful things. I noticed some magnificent color
effects on the railroad banks, as I came along — Rudbeckia and phlox, com-
binations of bright golden yellow and various colors. I think if one could
only copy some of those effects into the parks he would do a very great
work — well, it would be something that has not been done in this coun-
try heretofore, as I understand. We do try to produce these natural
effects in wild gardening, and a certain amount of success has been met
with.

Well, fashion changes in horticulture unfortunately. Many of these
things that have been mentioned by Mr. Gurney were perhaps more
popular twenty-five years ago than they are today, but they are coming
to the top again. With the advent of the so-called bedding plants the
herbaceous borders are done away with in many cases. I am not going
to condemn the bedding system ; it has its uses and there are excellent
examples of it in this neighborhood. I do condemn the outrageous
slaughter of the herbaceous borders. They are very beautiful, and some
of the native American plants placed in the neighborhood of shrubbery
produce very good effects. I do not thiuk I can add anything else, Mr
President. [Long continued applause.]

The President invited further discussion.

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis : Mr. President, the question has
been brought forward, this evening, with regard to these old and forgotten
plants, and I wish to say it is a fact that fashion changes matters. Fashion
indeed changes them, but who sets the fashion in this country ? Is it not
the florists themselves ? The florists sell and introduce plants to make
money on them, and these are not always such as are really beautiful nor
perhaps such as are the ideals of persons of refined artistic tastes. They
introduce the plants for which they can get the most rnone}- and which
they can most rapidly bring on the market in such condition as to make
them desirable to the public. For instance, hydrangeas, geraniums and
such flowering plants are largely in demand because the florists have set
the fashion for them and offered them to the public. The people, in
this country, on the other hand, are not educated in floriculture to
the same degree as in Europe where, as Mr. Nicholson states, they
grow many of these plants which among us are forgotten or were never
known. The people have not come to the point of demanding anything
but what the florists have shown them.

As to our own native plants, the herbaceous ones, I think there is a
rapidly increasing demand for them — created, as 1 have said, more by

84 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

the florists than by the popular taste, which follows in florists' lines.
Many of us here tonight perhaps expected Mr. Gurney to give us a list of
old plants that he knew years ago and which we could grow in this coun-
try, like the geraniums and roses that we grow now. Many of them can
be grown in this country ; but do they, in the same space of time and
for the same money, product the effect, in size and brilliancy of color,
that these other plants produce ? Time will add again to these collec-
tions which our European friends have known from childhood — plants
for which they have known many attachments, plants which are grand
in themselves but which have not come into use here for reasons that can
be traced to our rapid advancement. We have not had the time to collect
them together. People rush now to decorate their homes and they do
not look so much to having a large collection as they do to having sur-
roundings. The Missouri Botanical Gardens have made a wonderful
step, in the last two or three }rears, in increasing their collection of her-
baceous plants as well as other classes, but it is not in such places alone
that the public, and the florists also, are to be educated in the cultivation
of plants not in general cultivation, be the}' old or new. Indeed many of
us did not appreciate until we saw it, in our visit to the Botanical Gar-
den this afternoon, what a beautiful color that acalypha could produce.
That is one among the old and forgotten plants, and it will come to the
west as it has to the east, of this country as a new bedding plant. It is
indeed a worthy plant. There are other such plants just as worthy. I
feel confident that the reason for the fact I have stated is not that we
lack an interest in introducing the plants but that we have not seen the
possibility of doing it with success financially. Delphiniums and plants
of that character are small compared with such plants as geraniums, and
the flowers are not so magnificent in the spring, and the popular taste for
them has not been educated ; and when it is considered that here in the
west, as a rule, the means of the people are limited, there will be a better
understanding of the reason why we are behind the east of our country
and especially of Europe. [Applause.]

Mr. J. C. Vaughan, of Chicago : Mr. President, I have just one
word to say, one thought to express — the thought which was in my mind
during the reading of the essay. If we, all of us, could have a little more
of that love of nature which shines out in every phrase uttered by the
essayist ; if we could more truly appreciate the beauty of the apple
blossoms, the lilacs and the arbutus, and could disseminate that sentiment
amon" our customers so that there might spread throughout the land a
o-enuine love of horticulture, we would soon lay a foundation in the hearts
of our young people and of the rising generation upon which we could
rely for results of great benefit to the general trade. I think we are look-
in"- too closely to the strictJy commercial aspect of our business, to the
money value of this or that product as a marketable commodity. If we
could keep in view, as something for ourselves and for all florists to build

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 85

upon, that love of nature which pervades the paper just read, and could
diffuse a knowledge of it to others so that they might recognize the beau-
ties of nature, we would be amply recompensed for our efforts, in the
future. [Applause.]

The discussion here terminated.

TO INCREASE THE LOVE OF FLOWERS.

President Smith announced that the response prepared by Mr.
Eobert Craig, in reply to an inquiry in the "Question Box," the reading
of which was postponed at the evening session of the previous day, would
now be read by its author. He remarked that the subject of it, viz. :
" The best means of increasing a love of flowers," was quite apropos at
this time.

Mr. Craig here read his paper, amid much applause. It was as
follows :

That is to say, how can this Society work to the best advantage in
this direction ? There is no doubt that the love of flowers and orna-
mental plants, and interest in their cultivation, is more general in America
now than at any previous time. This is evidenced by their increased use
in public parks, cemeteries, at railroad stations, and in private gardens
and grounds. Every member of this Society can do something to help on
the good work. Flowers and plants need only to be shown to the people
in attractive arrangement and under good cultivation to make their own
way to the hearts of every one, and a florist cannot do better than to
begin at his own home to show a little good floriculture. Most of us have
not fully improved our opportunities in this respect ; we cannot do too
much in making our own home surroundings attractive with flowers and
thus give our patrons ideas of what may be done.

The various florists' clubs throughout the country should improve
every opportunity for cultivating public taste. Let me throw out a few
practical suggestions. Why would it not be a good idea for each florists'
club to select a hotel or theatre or other public place and keep it decorated
(at a nominal cost to the proprietors), for the purpose of cultivating
public taste ? The work could be so divided up among the members as
to be but a light tax on each, or a part of their fund could be devoted to
this object. This would certainly be productive of good results. Papers
should be read at the club meetings giving amateurs an idea what to grow
in their gardens, with detailed cultural information, suggestions as to
arrangement, etc., and also information as to plants best suited for house
culture and their proper treatment under such conditions. All such
matter the daily papers and weekly and monthly magazines would gladly
publish. Most of the disappointments of amateurs in attempting to grow
plants arises from ignorance ; and they would be very grateful for such
help as the florist club could easily give them.

These organizations should also take more interest in the floricultural

86 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

embellishment of the public parks. In some cities, notably Chicago, a
special taxis levied for the purpose of keeping up the parks, and a liberal
portion of this special fund is set apart for flowers, and I am informed by
many citizens that no part of the public tax is more cheerfully paid. The
people enjoy tbe flowers, and many of them fall in love with them and
are tempted to grow them around their own homes. The parks are great
educators, and the florists' clubs everywhere should use concerted efforts
to have a portion of the public funds devoted directly to the cultivation
of flowering and ornamental foliage plants in public grounds ; in no way
could they do more good.

Public exhibitions should receive the cordial support of every club
and every individual ; it should be considered as a duty for each to make
some personal sacrifice for the general good ; there is nothing new in
this idea, but it cannot be too often advanced. As an evidence of what
concerted effort and a little enthusiasm may accomplish, permit me to
remind you of the exhibition of carnation blooms held in Pittsburg last
February by the young branch of this organization, the Carnation Society.
I have seen many large exhibitions, but I am free to say I never attended
any one so perfectly delightful. What marvelous fiowers ! There was
never before brought together such an exemplification of the possibilities
of the " Divine Flower," and the only weakness in the management of
the exhibition was that it was not fully advertised. Special and truthful
reports of all exhibitions should be prepared for the press ; it is gratify-
ing that all good information of this kind is cheerfully published ; this is
one of the hopeful signs of the times. About two thousand of the Pitts-
burg people saw this show ; it was capable of delighting the whole
population. It was a demonstration that Mr. F. Dorner and other
American raisers of seedlings have carried the development of the per-
petual carnation further than any of their compeers.

What has been done by that young organization should stimulate the
Chrysanthemum Society and the Rose Societ}', and should hurry on the
advent of the Orchid Society and other potential sub-divisions of the
Society of American Florists. I might advance other ideas, but think we
should not at present attempt more than we can conveniently do ; it is not
difficult to act upon the one or two suggestions thrown out, and if this is
done these few remarks are not made in vain.

Adjourned.

florists' hail association.

Immediately after the evening session of the Convention, the annual
meeting of the Florists' Hail Association of America was held ; the
President, Mr. J. M. Jordan, of St. Louis, in the chair.

President Jordan submitted an amendment to the constitution,
recommended by the Board of Directors, increasing the amount of the
bond to be given by the Treasurer from $3,000 to $5,000. Adopted.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 87

The report of the Secretary (Mr. J. G. Esler, of Saddle River,
N\ J.), was presented, read and adopted, as follows : —

REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF THE FLORISTS' HAIL ASSOCIATION.

The elements in general and hailstorms in particular have wrought
disaster to growers during the past year. Some idea of the magnitude
of losses by hail may be obtained when it is stated, that in the four years
preceding August 1st, 1892, the Florists' Hail Association paid a total of
$3,028.1.1 for losses by hail. For the year ending August 1st, 1893, the
Association has paid $5,856.83, or nearly twice as much in one year as in
the preceding four years.

Forty members have been able to replace their glass without loss, —
and this has been accomplished without hardship to a single member.
"In union there is strength," and the force of the aphorism has been
especially illustrated this year in the working of the Florists' Hail Asso-
ciation.

The following losses have been paid since August 1st, 1892 : To
Mrs. Ella Campbell Wilson, $229.88 ; to Seeger & Hiersekorn, $206.25 ;
to C. A. Weddigen, $13.42 ; to Brunig & Aue, $18.12 ; to Nathan
Smith & Son, $7.74 ; to Chas. Beyer, $43.75 ; to the Oklahoma Floral
Company, $430.00 ; to Chas. J. Juengel, $10.10 ; to Draper & Son,
$170.50 ; to August Mirring, $23.60 ; to~Andrew Meyer, $31.35 ; to Ed.
Quinn, $1S0.00 ; to F. J. Filmore, $238.64 ; to Arthur Thornhill, $12.50;
to Fred Dorner, $379.38 ; to J. A. Heller, $22.58 ; to Ed. Paule, $63.10 ;
to Gottleib Tuefel, $6.56 ; to G. M. Kellogg, $1,225.19 ; to A. N. Kins-
man & Company, $36.25; to C. C. Murphy, $5.95; to N. S. Griffith,
$192.95 ; to J. R. & A. Murdoch, $77.10 ; to J. J. Schumacher, $31.20 ;
to Gus Brunner, $69.15 ; to Arthur Thornhill, $20.55 ; to Theo. JSToehle,
$1.50 ; to Fred Burki, $62.56 ; to the Heite Floral Company, $193.42 ; to
E. Manthey, $149.85 ; to Chas. Burtschy & Brother, $58.58 ; to Mrs.
M. J. Chaffin, $50.60 ; to John G. McOtty, $86.83 ; to Henry Bertrand,
$6.42 ; to Herman Schlaactler, $50,00 ; to J. J. Habermehl & Son,
$1,393.90 ; to C. Eisele, $15.43 ; to C. Humfeld, $16.60 ; to F. S. Krebs,
$18.15 ; to Mrs. J. F. Gaehring, $7.15. From the total amount of losses
should be deducted the amount of $81.76, which was reserved for re-
insurance.

On August 1st, 1893, the Florists' Hail Association had four hundred
and ninety-six members in good standing. The amount of glass insured
was 4,830,780, of which 2,247,012 feet was single thick, and 2,583,768
feet was double thick. An extra one-half insurance has been placed upon
63,261 feet of single thick glass, and 117,396 feet of double thick glass.

An extra whole insurance is carried upon 379,509 feet of single, and
upon 555,511 of double strength glass, making it equivalent to a single
insurance upon 5,856,128 square feet of glass.

The amount received for insurance during the past year, is $1,406.69,
of which $575.47 is membership fee, and $831.22 is assessment fee.

88 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

One assessment has been levied during the year, known as the
fourth assessment, from which the Association received the sum of
13,379.16.

The total disbursements have been : Losses, $5,856.83 ; expenses,
$916.02 ; bond purchase, $510.48, and $6.25 allowed on guarantee fund,
leaving in the hands of the Treasurer for reserve fund, $607.12 ; for
assessment fund, $1,072.08.

The reserve assets consists of $2,500.00 in bonds, in addition to the
membership fee, as above reported, making a total reserve fund of
$3,107.12.

Although losses at one time came thick and fast, the business of the
Association has been conducted without touching the reserve fund at
any time ; and it is with pride that the Secretary can report, that when
prompt action was necessary, every official in the Association responded
without a moment's delay.

The response of members to the emergency assessment levied, was
so prompt as to inspire all with confidence in the stability of the Florists'
Hail Association ; and when it is thoroughly understood how easy it is to
aid each other in case of disaster, through the medium of the Hail Asso-
ciation, the membership will assume colossal proportions.

The percentage of losses for the past year has been one square foot
of single thick glass to 371UU square feet insured, and one square foot
of double thick glass to every 93^^ square feet insured ; 59,665 square
feet of single thick glass has been paid for during the year, and 27,712
square feet of double thick glass.

From Texas to Manitoba and from Wyoming to Maine hail has
fallen with such violence and frequency, that the "hail belt" has been
obliterated.

John G. Esler, Secretary.

The report of the Treasurer (Mr. J. C. Vaughan, of Chicago),
was presented, read and adopted, as follows : —

treasurer's report.

Balance August 1, 1892 . . . $3,996.17

Received new member fees . . $377.33
Received additional member fees . 198.14

$575.47

653.28
177.94

4,890.85

Received new first assessment . 401.77

Received additional first assessment 251.51

Received extra whole assessment . 165.93
Received extra half assessment . 12.01

Received fourth assessment . . 3,379.16

Received interest .... 105.00

$8,887.02

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 89

Receipts, brought forward, $8,887.02

DISBURSEMENTS

Paid for loss, per vouchers . . . .$5,856.83

Less re-insurance 81.76

.$5,775.07

Sundry expenses, per vouchers . . 916.02

Bond purchase, per vouchers . . . 510.48

John Burton for guarantee fund . . 6.25

$7 ,207.82

Cash on hand $1,679.20

BONDS ON HAND.

1, town of Lake View, 111., 5% due Aug. 1,1896 . . . $500.00

1, city of Chicago, 111., 4% due Jan. 1,1911 .... 500.00

2, county of Du Page, 111., 5% due Aug. 1, 1899 . . . 1,000.00
1, village of Evanston, 111., 4£% due July 1, 1909 . . . 500.00

$2,500.00

Guaranty fund unpaid, due R. Craig .... $10.00
Guaranty fund unpaid, due P. E. McAllister . . . 12.50

$22.50

An election of seven directors resulted in the re-election of the board
chosen in 1892, as follows : J. M. Jordan, Edwin Lonsdale, Julius
Roehrs, Lewis E. Wood, John Temple, E. G. Hill and James Horan.

A report was received from the committee on fire insurance, (Mr.
E. H. Michel, of St. Louis, chairman), containing a classification of
greenhouse risks ; and, after discussion, the same was adopted and
referred to the Society of American Florists for action.

Adjourned.

The afternoon was pleasantly spent by the visitors in seeing various
points of interest, many taking advantage of the invitation to visit and
inspect the establishment of the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association
where they were lavishly entertained.

THIRD DAY — MORNING.

St. Louis, August 11th, 1893.

The Convention re-assembled at 11 o'clock A. M. ; President Smith
in the chair.

NOMENCLATURE COMMITTEE.

Prof. Wm. Trelease, of St. Louis, on behalf of the Nomenclature
Committee, presented and read the report of the committee, which was
received with applause. The report was as follows : —

90

PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Your committee on nomenclature would respectfully report as
follows : —

Two quite distinct problems present themselves to those having the
naming of cultivated plants in hand : First, the naming of species,
natural varieties and natural hybrids ; second, the naming of artificial
hybrids, florists' forms and sports. The first is a distinctly botanical
problem ; the second must be done by horticulturists. For uniform
nomenclature in either group, concerted action by American growers
and dealers, supported by the horticultural press, are necessary ; and
international agreement will be requisite for the attainment of absolute
uniformity.

It would seem that the nomenclature of species and natural varieties
should be stable, since the number of new introductions each year, and
especially of undescribed species, is very limited. In fact, however, the
majority of species are burdened with one or more synonyms ; and
many varieties have at one time and another found place under other
species than those to which tbey are now accredited, or have appeared
as independent species in the same or other genera. Even genera have
frequent synonyms. The citation of a species at will under either of
several generic, specific or varietal names which it may have borne, or
the similar treatment of a variety, can result only in confusion for the
botanist ; but it may further entail financial loss and merge into business
dishonesty when indulged in by the dealer in plants. For example, the
catalpa, native to the Gulf States, was called Bignonia catalpa by Lin-
n;eus. It was afterwards transferred from Bignonia to the genus
Catalpa, where it has been called C. cordifolia, C. syringcefolia and C.
communis, in addition to the name, C. Bignonioides, which it usually
bears today. Experience shows that the ordinary buyer chooses what-
ever has a name different from the plants he already has, or whatever is
otherwise made to appear as a novelty ; and even the more experienced
planter does not always have leisure or books to weed out the synonyms
from a catalogue before making his purchase. With the best intentions,
the dealer who uses at will either of the five names quoted above, will
cause disappointment to some purchasers ; and we know that it has been
charged that the employment of unusual names is resorted to to facili-
tate the sale as novelties of plants well known and much cultivated
under other names, though the committee of this Society has in the
past reported very favorably upon the honesty of American dealers.

For the present, Nicholson's Dictionary, compiled at Kew, under
the influence of the work of Bentham, Hooker, Baker and Masters, is
the best available standard for the naming of ornamental species and
varieties, and }-our committee would recommend that it be accepted for
the present as the standard of this Society, so far as it goes. Plants not
contained in it must, of necessity, be referred to competent botanical
authority for the names to be adopted. In the case of plants very widely
known under names different from those employed by Nicholson, your

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 91

committee advise that the latter be, nevertheless, uniformly employed,
the popular but discarded name being added in parenthesis, until the
trade and the public have become accustomed to the change.

Certain principles of nomenclature are now under consideration by
an international committee of botanists, which is expected to make a
report to the American Association for the Advancement of Science at
its Madison meeting this summer ; and a rigid application of the rules of
this botanical convention will doubtless involve changes in the names
used by Nicholson. Meantime, however, your committee is of the
opinion that it is better to follow one authority than many divided
authorities, — an opinion which is strengthened by the conviction that
the successful application of any principles of nomenclature which may
be adopted, can be secured only when it is possible to refer to a standard
list of names conforming to these principles.

With respect to florists' names, your committee counsels general con-
formity to the rules adopted by the American Pomological Society for
fruits, and the committee of the Association of American Agricultural
Colleges and Experiment Stations for vegetables, — according to the
originator or introducer (in the order specified), the prior right to be-
stow a name upon each new introduction ; such name, before approval
by the Society, to pass close scrutiny as to the distinctness of the plant,
and the possibility of ambiguity or confusion attaching to the use of the
proposed name.

Your committee advises that the Society continue to publish each
year in its proceedings, and in the floricultural press, a list of all syn-
onyms discovered during the year, citing the users of synonyms, but
refraining from all comment on the motives leading to renaming, except
where the authors tender an explanation for publication, leaving the
public to pass judgment on this point. To this end we request florists
and others to communicate to the chairman of the Nomenclature Com-
mittee each year, all synonyms that they discover, together with the
circumstances attending their use, and to call attention to the mistakes
that may from time to time be made in the synonymic lists published by
the Society.

Your committee also recommends the early publication by the
Society, either through its proceedings, or through some standard chan-
nel, accessible to all persons interested, a list of florists' forms now
handled by the American trade, carefully weeded for synonyms, and,
so far as possible, simplified in accordance with the principles on which
the vegetable lists have been prepared by the College and Experiment
Station committee, already referred to ; * and it recommends the appoint-
ment of a special committee, of which the secretaries of the Rose,
Chrysanthemum, Carnation and similar organizations shall be members,
charged with the duty of preparing such a list for presentation to the

*Annals of Horticulture, 1889, 106-140.

92

PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Executive Committee of the Society for consideration at its next winter
meeting, and for transmission by said committee to the Society for
adoption at its annual meeting in 1894.

Finally, your committee urges upon those originating plants requir-
ing new names, the employment of short, appropriate and neat vernacular
names ; the avoidance of misleading, long, high-sounding or vulgar names,
and the use of latinized names exclusively in connection with species and
natural varieties.

Although circulars have been addressed to the officers of affiliated
special societies, and a request for reports has been published in the flori-
cultural press, few cases of misnaming or renaming plants have been
reported to your committee. Those which have been reported are as
follows : —

Achillea serrata, "The Pearl," appears in one catalogue under the
name A. grandiflora.

Chrysanthemum W. A. Manda, appears in one catalogue under
the subsequently registered name Patrick Barry.

On motion of Mr. W. A. Manda, of Short Hills, 1ST. J., the report
was accepted and it was ordered that a vote of thanks be tendered to the
committee for the trouble they had taken in the matter.

AN OFFICIAL LIST OF DECORATIVE PLANTS.

Secretary Stewart, by request of Mr. E. G. Hill, presented and
read the following resolution : —

Resolved, In view of tlie recommendations of the Nomenclature
Committee, that a committee of three be appointed by the Chair, the
secretaries of the Chrysanthemum, Carnation, and Rose Societies also to
act as members, to prepare a list of decorative plants handled by the
American trade, for consideration and adoption as the official list of this
Society ; said committee to act under the following general instructions :

First. Natural species and varieties shall bear the Latin names
assigned to them in Nicholson's Dictionary, so far as they are there named,
except that where difference's exist between the dictionary and the Kew
index now in course of publication, the name adopted by the latter shall
be chosen. Species first published or reinstated subsequent to the date
of the latter (1885), shall be treated in accordance with|botanical custom,
especially that of Kew Gardens. In all cases in which the application of
this rule shall cause the displacement of a commonly used and well known
name, the latter shall be added as a synonym.

Second. Florists' varieties, races and forms, shall be named in accord-
ance with the recommendations of the Nomenclature Committee this
day submitted ; but the greatest conservatism is counseled in all changes
which are likely to cause confusion or detriment to legitimate business
interests.

The resolution was seconded by Mr. Wm. Dihm, of New York, and
was adopted without objection. The President appointed the following
gentlemen on the committee: Prof.Wm. Trelease, Wm. Falconer,Edwin
Lonsdale, E. G. Hill and Geo. C. Watson.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 93

The President also announced the committee on statistics of imports
and exports as ordered by vote on first day, opening session, (page 18),
as follows : John Burton, Benjamin Durfee, P. O'Mara, C. B. Whitnall
and Geo. Vair.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS.

The President : The Society will now proceed to the election of
officers for the ensuing year. How shall it be done ?

Mr. P. J. Hauswirth, of Chicago : I ask to have the Secretary call
off the list of nominees for President.

Secretary Stewart : There are three names : J. T. Anthony, Myron
A. Hunt and John Burton. The two latter have been withdrawn ; there-
fore the only nominee for President before the Convention is J. T.
Anthony, of Chicago.

Mr. Hauswirth : There being but one nominee I move that the
Secretary cast the vote of the Society for President.

Mr. R. F. Tesson, of St. Louis : Mr. President, according to the
rules, I understand, they cannot withdraw.

The President : The chair is unable to hear the gentleman. Will
he come forward to the space in front of the platform ?

(Mr. Tesson here advanced. Meanwhile the following remarks were
made:)

Mr. Hauswirth : I insist on my motion. I do not see why a man
has not the right to withdraw. The question on my motion has not been
stated. I do not see that any gentleman has a right to talk upon it until
the question has been stated.

The President : The motion is on proceeding to an election of
President. The question is, as the chair understands it, can a nominee
withdraw.

Mr. Hauswirth : That is not the question. I move that the Secre-
tary be instructed to cast the unanimous vote of this Society for J. T.
Anthony for President. And no gentlemen has a right to discuss the
question until the motion is put before the house.

The President stated the question on the motion just submitted.

Mr. J. M. Jordan, of St. Louis : I wish to say that that is not the
proper parliamentary way of doing it. If you instruct your Secretary to
cast the unanimous vote of the Society for somebody, he must take the
proxy of this entire Convention, and must know that the Convention is
unanimous in its vote. [Applause.]

94 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Mr. Hauswirth : Mr. President, I do not want to speak against
Mr. Jordan on that point ; the

The President : Excuse me ; it is not debatable now.

Mr. Hauswirth : The question is before the house now, Mr.
President. I think that when a question is before the house any-
body can debate it. Prior to this the question was not before the house;
it had not been stated b}' the chair. [Applause.] The point that I make
is this, that the Secretary is an officer of the Society, and has to do what
the Society directs him to do. If this Society votes that the Secretary
shall cast the unanimous vote of the Society, it is his business to do so.
Now, I am not learned in parliamentary law as Mr. Jordan is ; but that is
my point, and I have never known it to be taken in any other way. The
Secretary is an officer of this Society.

Mr. G. V. Smith, of Baltimore : At the same time he must have
the unanimous vote before he can do that. One dissenting vote will pre-
vent the Secretary from casting the ballot. [Applause.]

The President here took a vote as follows : " All in favor of the
Secretary acting as indicated, will say aye." [The affirmative response
was given.] " Those of the contrary opinion, will say no." [The nega-
tive response was heard.] It is not a vote, — I cannot decide.

Mr. Tesson : As that motion is lost, I wish to make the statement
that the withdrawal of Mr. Hunt's name or Mr. Burton's name before
a vote had been cast upon the question is unparliamentary. A man can-
not withdraw his name from a ballot until his withdrawal has been voted
on and accepted. I move that we proceed with the election of officers
according to the nominations that have been made. [Applause.]

Mr. Hauswirth : I claim that this Convention yesterday accepted
those declinations. They were presented here, and there was no con-
trary action on them. Therefore, the declinations were received and
the Convention accepted the same.

Mr. Tesson : There was no action taken on them.

Mr. F. J. Heine, of Jacksonville, 111. : That very fact makes the
declinations hold good.

Mr. Hauswirth : So it seems to me. These declinations were
taken and not a word was said about it.

Mr Tesson : Yesterday was not the day for the election of officers.

Mr. William Dihm, of New York : I think the point of order is
a very good one. I think a man can decline at any time ; that it is his
privilege to decline ; that you cannot make any man stand before this
Convention and get a vote unless he has a right to it.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 95

Mr. Robert Craig, of Philadelphia : I am opposed to the election
going on as has been suggested ; it would only be a waste of time ; it would
result iu no good. Mr. Hunt has positively declined to accept the office,
and Mr. Burton has also done so. If Mr. Burton had been in the hall
when his name was first mentioned he would have immediately declined
the nomination ; he was here later to speak for himself. As soon as he
heard somebody had nominated him, he sent Mr. Wescott to state that
he positively declined. Now, I cannot see the use of this Convention
wasting time by going into an election that would not amount to any-
thing. It is a settled fact that Mr. Anthony is to be the next president of
this Society, and why not save time by instructing the Secretary to cast a
ballot ? We have a quantity of work to do and are waiting to proceed
with it. [Applause.]

Mr. Tesson : Much as I may agree with Mr. Craig in regard to saving
the time, I do not see how we can accept their resignations if it is not
according to the rules of the Society.

Mr. G. L. Grant, of Chicago : Mr. President, I make the point
that the original motion is still before the house, because, although you
called for a vote upon it, you did not announce the result of the vote.

The President : I announced that there was no vote because I
could not decide.

Mr. Grant : Then the motion is still before the house. I call for a
division upon it.

Mr. G. R. Clark, of Scranton, Pa., here stated that, as the vote
on the motion had not been decided, the position of the matter was very
unsatisfactory and that, as a call had been made for a division, a vote by
rising should now be taken.

Mr. J. T. Temple, of Davenport, Iowa : We have consumed a great
deal of time on this election. I therefore move that the previous ques-
tion be now taken. That will cut off further discussion.

Secretary Stewart : Mr. President, if I may be excused for a
moment, 1 will call attention to the requirements of the Constitution of
the Society. It is as follows : " The President, first Vice-President,
Secretary and Treasurer shall be elected by ballot during the holding of
its annual meeting." ]STo rising vote will meet that requirement. It
calls for a ballot, and as there has not been unanimous consent otherwise,
I do not see that anything can be done except to have a vote by ballot ;
and the sooner we proceed with it, Mr. President, the sooner we will get
through. [Applause.]

Mr. Temple : I call for a vote on my motion, that the previous
question be now put. Then the Secretary can act.

96 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Mr. Kennicott, of Chicago, asked for a standing vote on the original
motion.

Mr. Clark again addressed the chair. He said he agreed with Mr.
Grant that the pending motion had not been decided and therefore any
member had a right to call for a rising vote to have the question deter-
mined. He thought that, if the viva voce vote was in order, a standing
vote would be equally in order.

Mr. J. D. Carmody, of Evansville, Ind. : Mr. President, I under-
stand— if I am wrong, you will please correct me — that a vote directing
the Secretary to cast the ballot of the Society unanimously in favor of
anything or any person must be unanimous. A partisan vote will not
answer ; it must be a unanimous vote in order to be of any effect.
[Applause.]

Mr. E. G. Hill, of Richmond, Ind. : It seems to me that the easiest
solution is to follow the By-laws and take a ballot. I believe that the
point just raised by Mr. Carmody is the correct one. I have no interest
in the matter, one way or the other, between the different candidates,
but we want to proceed according to the way laid down by the By-laws.
I think we can solve the difficulty by proceeding in the usual way. ,

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis : I move that the Convention pro-
ceed to ballot at once.

Several members seconded the motion.

A vote being taken, the motion of Mr. Michel was adopted without
objection.

Mr. W. S. Clark, of Washington, D. C. : Do I understand that
Mr. Hunt and Mr. Burton are still candidates for this office ?

Mr. John Burton : Mr. President, I ask the privilege, as one of
the candidates nominated yesterday, to decline ; I mention this now to
the members and hope they will be courteous enough to me, no matter
how the question is settled, not to vote for me. I never was a candidate.
[Applause.]

(Mr. Myron A. Hunt was not present at any time during the morning
session of this day.)

The President : The chair names Mr. Burton and our old friend,
Mr. Thorpe, as tellers to collect the ballots. Every member must show
his badge to those gentlemen before voting.

(The election was here proceeded with and the ballots collected.)

Secretary Stewart finally announced the result of the balloting, as
follows : —

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 97

Whole number of votes cast, one hundred and twenty ; necessary to
a choice, sixty-one. Mr. John Burton received one vote ; Mr. Pen-
nock one; Mr. J. T. Anthony, forty-five ; Mr. Myron A. Hunt, seven-
ty-three.

The announcement here made by the chair of the election of Mr.
Hunt was received by the Convention with cheers.

On motion of Mr. J. M. Jordan, seconded by Mr. J. Manda, a
committee of two was appointed to wait upon Mr. Hunt to notify him of
his election, and ascertain whether he would accept the presidency.

Messrs. J. M. Jordan and John Burton were constituted the
committee.

Mr. J. M. Stewart, of Anderson, Indiana : I move that we make
it unanimous in favor of Mr. Hunt.

Several Members : "He has not accepted yet."

A vote having been taken on Mr. Stewart's motion, several nega-
tive responses were heard, and the chair stated that it was not
unanimous.

The election of Vice-President and Secretary, for each, of which
offices there was but one nominee, was then proceeded with.

On motion of Mr. E. H. MicnEL, seconded by Mr. E. G. Hill, the
Secretary was instructed to cast the ballot of the Society for Mr. Robert
Kift, of Philadelphia, for Vice-President.

On motion of Mr. G. L. Grant, seconded by Mr. William Diiim,
the President was instructed to cast the ballot of the Society for Mr.
William J. Stewart, of Boston, for Secretary.

The ballots were cast accordingly and both gentlemen declared
elected.

On motion of Mr. G. L. Grant, seconded by Mr. William Dihm,
the election of Treasurer (for which Mr. Myron A. Hunt was the only
nominee) , was deferred until Mr. Hunt could be heard from upon his ac-
ceptance of the presidency.

THE NATIONAL CHARTER.

The President read a telegram addressed lo him, and just received
from Washington, D. C, referring to efforts to obtain a national charter
at the present session of Congress. It was as follows : —

" Messrs. Hatch and Cummings say nothing can be done until com-
mittees are appointed ; then it will be pushed.

C. Leslie Reynolds."

98 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

EXHIBITS AND AWARDS.

Secretary Stewart here read, for general information, the reports
of the committees on exhibits in the exhibition rooms, which had been
presented by Chairman Michel.

After an explanation by Mr. Michel, the report of the committee on
greenhouse appliances and flower pots was, on his motion, amended by
omitting therefrom any award to the exhibit of A. H. Hews & Company,
as it had been entered merely for exhibition, — not for competition, — and
the reference to it in the report had been made inadvertently.

The reports were accepted.

THE WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXHIBITION.

The President made this announcement : Mr. Thorpe has received
from Director General George Davis, of the World's Columbian Exposi-
tion, Chicago, a telegram stating that he will be pleased to receive a
delegation of the Society of American Florists, on next Monday, at
2 o'clock r. m.

Mr. J. C. Vaughan stated that he would like to hear at this time
from the chairman of the committee of the Society of American Florists,
on the World's Horticultural Congress (Mr. E, G. Hill) , in regard to a
meeting of the Congress in the coming week at Chicago.

Mr. E. G. Hill replied by detailing the program of the Congress to
be held at the Fair, beginning on Wednesday morning, 16th instant, when
valuable papers would be read by representative hoi'ticulturists of our own
and foreign countries. The floricultural section to open on Thursday even-
ing had been arranged for by the Executive Committee of the Society of
American Florists at its St. Louis meeting last January ; and the pro-
gram for it included papers by Mr. Craig, Professor Goodale and others,
upon matters of interest to the profession. He extended a cordial in-
vitation to all present to attend the Congress ; and after referring to Mr.
Vaughan's familiarity with the arrangements, as the entire charge of the
work had devolved upon that gentleman, he added that Mr. Vaughan
was more competent to speak on the subject than himself.

Mr. J. C. Vaughan responding to calls said that the point he
wished specially to make had been covered by Mr. Hill, viz. : that all
the members who would go to Chicago should try and be present at the
sessions of the Congress, — the opening session on Wednesday morn-
ing being a general one and intended to cover matters of interest to
horticulturists, nurserymen, pomologists, seedsmen and florists. Special
sessions for each of these branches of the craft would be held later
upon a program to suit the convenience 'of the visitors, and enable
them to utilize their time to the best advantage in seeing the Fair. He

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 99

mentioned as among the distinguished guests from abroad, whom he
hoped to see present, Curator Nicholson of the Kew Gardens, and Mr.
Henri de Vilmorin, of Paris, who had charge of the French horticul-
tural display, the latter being now on the ocean en route to Chicago.

Mr. J. D. Carmody, of Evansville, Ind., extended an invitation to
all the members to visit his place on the World's Fair grounds. He added :
At my house I cannot say exactly that the latch-string is hanging out,
for I have taken the door off the hinges so that you can come in. [Ap-
plause.] I want to notify you that I have a house of my own, that you
do not have to be dependent upon the World's Fair officials for a house
to visit. I have prepared it for you, as we read in the Good Book. It is
named in the good old-fashioned way, " Saints' Rest, for florists and
other saints." You will see the inscription upon the window, beside the
place where the door was. [Uproarious merriment.] I only hope that I
may have the exquisite pleasure of welcoming every florist who has
attended this Convention as well as others from every quarter of the land.
I stand among you as a florist with an open hand and hope I have as big
a heart as any member of our association. [Great applause.]

Mr. John Westcott : The gentleman failed to tell us where that
open door is.

ov

Mr. Carmody : My house is located on the west front of Horticul-
tural Hall, south of the row of greenhouses, and is occupied by a big
hearted man. [Applause.]

HYBRIDIZATION.

The next business in order was an essay on " Hybridization : Its
benefits and results to ornamental horticulture," by Dr. J. M. Macfar-
lane, of Lansdowne, Pa.

Mr. E. G. HiLL(to whom the reading of the paper had been assigned,
in the absence of its author,) said that a casual glance at the essay
had satisfied him it was one of great value and very comprehensive, and
he would proceed with the reading of it, if this was desired, but in view
of the lateness of the hour and the voluminous appearance of the paper,
the better plan would probably be to defer consideration of it and have it
printed in the minutes.

On motion of Mr. W. W. Coles, it was ordered, for the reasons
stated, that the essay be printed at length in the proceedings of the
Society.

The essay is here inserted as follows : —

It may fairly be said that three great agencies have been at work
during the past century to increase the number of cultivated plants.

100 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

These have been the introduction of new species, the selection of sports,
and the hybridization of species already in cultivation. It would be hard
to say which of the three agencies has been the most potent, but it is a
fact that many of our choicest garden ornaments of today are neither
species nor sports, but hybrids that have themselves been so crossed and
recrossed that to unravel their parentage would be hopeless. As proof
of this we need only cite the pinks, pelargoniums, Begonias, heaths,
rhododendrons, gloxinias, gladioli, etc. Such results are the best possible
proof that hybridization has immense possibilities for the florist. The
great improvement of many hybrids over either parent is a valuable
feature in itself.

Though it is now approaching two centuries since Fairchild raised
the first hybrid that was recognized as such, it is scarcely more than half
a century since gardeners started in earnest to the work of hybridization.
Kolreuter may well be designated the father of hybridizers, for from 1760
till near the time of his death in 1806 he devoted his best energies to the
scientific rearing and comparison of parent and hybrid forms. The
altogether unexpected results he obtained in crossing species of such
genera as dianthus, malva, lobelia, nicotiaua and mirabilis at once
showed the way and supplied the stimulus to gardeners, who — to their
praise be it said — were not blind to the hint thus furnished. But the
gardening world was first aroused to the height of anticipation when a
couple of well known cultivators entered the field in the persons of R.
Gowen, gardener to Lord Carnarvon, and Dean Herbert, the amateur,
but enthusiastic florist. As the two brought forward successive crosses
of the then fashionable ericas, as well as of rhododendrons, gladioli and
amaryllis that still find high favor, the natural outcome was that every
gardener became a hybridizer. During the first half of this century,
therefore, the number of garden hybrids increased greatly, while the
price at times realized for some lucky batch of seedlings was a windfall to
the owner. More recently the careful, scientific experiments of
Gartner. Naudin, Godron, Wichura and Darwin gave a firm foundation to
the subject, while the innumerable varieties of pelargoniums, fuchsias,
rhododendrons, petunias and orchids testify that the florist has not been
resting on the laurels which his predecessors gained. But all this not-
withstanding, he has too often approached his experiments in a very hap-
hazard frame of mind. True, some of the leading continental Arms so
realized the importance of the work to be done that they engaged men
for it who became specialists. Dominy, Seden, Kellermann, Turnbull,
Grieve and others amply deserved the name. Like other industries and
pursuits the rearing of hybrids is one the importance of which has not
been fully realized in America. Till within the last few years there has
not existed here the type of wealthy, leisured and cultured men, who can
appreciate such products, and are prepared to spend large sums in order
to obtain them. But while a change for the better is at present going
on, is it not true that this country has at times fulfilled its mission best

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 101

when it has gone outside itself to compete with other nations? Why
should it not do the same in the production of new and valuable crosses?
I am glad to know that already a beginning has been made and that
hybrid orchids from American raisers have been willingly awarded their
meed of praise.

System and method are characteristics of the universe and should
be also of those who propose to enter the list of hybridizers. Want of
system and method has sadly shown itself in the past, so that the market
has been flooded with hybrids whose parentage is unknown, and the means
adopted for the obtaining of them is unrecorded. Every gardener then
should have a pocket notebook as a constant and cherished companion.
I could not help admiring the system adopted by a well known orchid
grower of England, whose stock of hybrids is almost without a rival. A
large, well bound volume contained a record of every experiment
conducted. The time of opening of the parent blossoms, the date
when cross pollination was effected, remarks on the ripening of capsule,
the period when it was plucked, the time of sowing of the seeds and
the nature of the soil in which they were placed, the first appearance of
the seedlings and the date when these were pricked off into pots were all
duly entered. By such means he commanded success and it has come to
him. How unlike the all too common reply made by many, when asked
only it may be as to the parentage of a cross, " Well, Golden Queen was
the seed parent and I think Silver Gem was the male."

If it is asked now, what flowering plants will hybridize? the answer
is difficult to give, for our sad lack of knowledge on many points must be
confessed. It has been demonstrated that the pollen grains of one species
when put on the stigma of some species belonging to a different order or
even sub-class will protrude pollen tubes that may reach the ovary or
even the ovule. But the operation seems to be largely physical and
there stops. It can be laid down as an ascertained law that only
forms which are more or less related to each other will cross. But we
do not mean to imply by this that in habit, environment, flower, color and
odor the two should resemble each other closely. Witness the hybrid
between the slender, twiggy, small flowered Rhododendron Dauricumand
the tall, large flowered R. arboreum, or between the dense, why Patagonian
shrub, philesia, and the tall Chilian climber, lapageria. These indicate to
us the outer limits of possibilities, so to speak, but the fact that hybrids of
such never or rarely bear seeds teaches us that natural limits have been
overstepped by human art. Since hybrids between species of dianthusr
pelargonium, Begonia, petunia and others are to a large degree fertile
this indicates that the inner limit shades off into cross fertilization of
individuals of the same species.

A very important matter in hybridization is the skillful and judicious-
selection of appropriate parents. It seems inevitable that embryo
hybridizers always attempt at first to get marvels, rather than improve-
ments. They wish to lead Nature, instead of being content to put their

102 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

hand in hers. " Improvement " then should be the hybridizer's watch-
word, and we predict that this can best be attained by a thoughtful study of
the parent species. Let us illustrate by one or two cases. The de-
servedly popular and early blooming Rhododendron Nobleanumis a cross
of the low growing, white flowered R. Caucasicum with the magnificent
scarlet R. arboreum. But, as grown in English gardens, the leaves of
the former parent are liable to the attack of an insect that riddles and
browns them. The weakness is powerfully inherited by the hybrid off-
spring, and is decidedly against it in the florist's eyes. The selection of
our native R. Catawbiense instead gave the well known strains of which
John Waterer is an example, and these are free from the defect indicated.

No better illustration can be given, I think, of the inferior qualities
of two selected parents being subordinated to the good points of both in
the crossed offspring than in Nepenthes Mastersiana. This form has
done more, to popularize the pitcher plants than any species or hybrid yet
brought forward. The one parent, !N". sanguinea has ample bright green
leaves that bear scarlet crimson pitchers of graceful shape and large size.
But the plant tends to become " leggy; " it pitchers rather inconstantly,
and is often difficult to propagate. The other parent, N. Khasiana, has
narrow gray-green leaves, long narrow pitchers of a greenish hue tinged
and streaked with brick red — not highly desirable acquisitions — but
it pitchers at every leaf usually and is easy of cultivation. The hybrid,
in habit, in leaf form and color, in shape and coloring of the pitcher,
and not least, in its free mode of propagation, is all that could be desired.

Since it is a general rule that as we approach the tropics the wealth
and coloring of flowers increase, one aim should be to cross good hardy
forms with others of a more tender kind, for people do not want to grow all
their plants the year round in glass houses if they can do otherwise. Then,
too, since hybrids remain truest in type when propagated otherwise than
from seeds, if one proposed parent that has good points be an annual
or biennial, one that is perennial should be chosen as the other parent.
Good illustrations of this are to found both among natural and artificial
hybrids. " Habit " is an important item with florists, and the improved
crossed strains of Begonia, canna, etc., are known to all of you. The
quality of the flowers, however, largely determines the value of the plant.
But " the quality of the flowers" is a complicated problem, since size,
shape, color, perfume and duration may all have to be considered. A
skillful study of these may insure a hit when otherwise there would be
mediocrity or a failure. Few hybrids in their blooms set off the good
points so well as one that has had a wide though questionable reputation,
and yet is little known to cultivators. I refer to Bryan thus erectus of
Graham; a well grown plant of this, not to say a bed of it, is a sight
indeed. As color is an important consideration, needless effort may be
saved by avoiding the crossing of species that have yellow and purple, or
scarlet and dark blue blossoms. While I know a good many ugly
combinations of the above, the only passable one is that between the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 103

cardinal and blue lobelias, which is not uncommon in the wild condition
with us, and has repeatedly been produced artificially.

All experimenters practically agree that some genera and species
cross much more readily than others. Where striking differences exist
in the structure of the two parents the probability of blending is
correspondingly reduced. In spite of this the man would be rash who
would attempt to predict with our present knowledge that certain species
cannot be crossed. Look up the literature of twenty years back and you
will read that the currant and gooseberry, the red and blue pimpernel, as
well as others that might be named, refuse to blend. Yet we have
hybrids of them now. They yielded to steady and determined effort.
The group of orchids, however, should be an example and en-
couragement to all. Till within the last quarter of this century few
artificial hybrids, and only a few wild hybrids of the orchid order, were
known, the order itself being viewed as of minor hybridizing capacity.
But the rage for novelty and improvement taxed the skill of a gardener,
while the prices willingly paid for good novelties furnished the
incitement. He set himself to understand the curious structure of the
flower, and to his aid came Darwin's classic work. The order now stands
first as having furnished the greatest number of hybrids, the most varied
combinations and the most beautiful results. It cannot be too strongly
stated, however, that these achievements have been accomplished by a
skillful selection of parents and a knowledge of the cultural treatment
that best suits them from the seedling on to the adult's age.

It has been generally accepted as an axiom that species with irregular
flowers cross more readily than those with regular blossoms, and a super-
ficial review of garden forms seems to confirm the opinion. But if we
stand back and allow Nature to speak for us here, she will utter a word of
caution. Such genera as anemone, ranunculus, aquilegia, dianthus, hy-
pericum, vitis, rosa, geum, rubus, epilobium, rumex, salix, narcissus
and carex claim the large share of wild and natural hybrids. How then
has the popular fancy originated? Simply, we believe, because irregular-
flowers always have a charm for cultivators that is only equaled by that
of the finest regular species. Nature, we say, works most easily on
regular forms, and this fact should be kept clearly in view for the future.
During the past quarter century irregular ones have been the favorites, the
Begonias only being to a degree an exception. We do not wonder that it
has been so, for irregular shape and showy or varied coloring usually go
hand in hand, while the halo of light that Darwin and his successors
have shed around their structural relation makes every one desire to
imitate the insect or hummimg bird, even though they do not claim the
nectar for their trouble. We say then that among our showy regular
flowers is a neglected field waiting to be cultivated.

No question probably in the whole range of our subject has been so
debated, or had so many theories tacked on to it, as that which deals
with the relations and resemblances of a hybrid to its parents. Though

104 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

careful scientific students like Kolreuter, Gartner, Naudin, Wichura and
Darwin favored the view that hybrids are averagely intermediate between
the parents, their eyes were open to the fact that the appearance of
erratic and divergent forms occasionally seemed to weaken their position.
Among florists the aim appeared often to be the obtaining of marvels
rather than improvements, and so many evenly balanced crosses were
less noticed than the divergent ones. Our gardening journals for decades
presented articles in which the prepotency of the male parent was
warmly supported by some — and we should judge by the majority —
while that of the female was as keenly held by others. From extended
observations that the writer has made alike on living plants and on their
minute tissues, he adheres to the view that an average hybrid is nearly
intermediate between its parents. But it is to be remembered that if in-
dividuals of the same species are built up of unstable and easily decom-
posed chemical compounds such will probably be truer of a hybrid,
which may well be regarded as an attempt to make two diverse things
balance as one. We need not be surprised then that so many freaks
appear, some of which vibrate toward one parent, some towards the
other.

Many of you may be inclined now to ask — what remains to be done
by the florist? To that I answer, "Nearly everything," and I am
persuaded this correctly expresses the true position of affairs today.
My reasons for giving the answer are: First, that many of the finest
flowering plants are not yet in cultivation. Take, for example, the exotic
field that lies most conveniently to ourselves. I mean central America
from Xew Mexico to the Argentine Republic. Though we are already
indebted to that vast region for many of our best stove and greenhouse
plants, its resources have scarcely been touched except in the matter of
orchids. The same is true also of central Africa and Asia, of New
Guinea and many of the Pacific Islands. Second, if we take as a crite-
rion the work done among a few species during the last twenty years the
answer is a correct one. Third, if we consider the limited facilities
and the many hindrances that have hitherto existed in conducting pollin-
ation experiments the wonder is that so much has been done. The hy-
bridizer has frequently to accept as parents not what he will, but what he
must. He may wish to cross two species from whose descendants he
hopes for great things, but he has only one parent in flower. He hunts
up his gardening friends to see if they can supply pollen of the other or
of some suitable parent. Happy is he if his search is successful.

In speaking as I have done of exotic plants do not suppose that I
discourage the culture of our native plants. Far too little attention has
been given them. But what, it may be asked, are the groups that
deserve attention? We have a wide field to choose from, but I can only
indicate a few. Some of our native and exotic polygalas have a habit,
floral structure and color that entirely commend them. The St. John's
worts or hypericums are now becoming favorites on rockwork and in

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 105

herbaceous borders, and though natural hybrids have now and again
been recorded, the pretty H. Moserianuni is an artificial one of recent
date that all speak well of. Others should be forthcoming. It is sur-
prising that so few of the Malvaceae have hitherto been worked. Our native
swamp mallow (Hibiscus Moscheutos) is a noble plant, and if crossed by
a dwarfer species something very distinct might be gotten. Hibiscus,
abutilon and malva are all deserving of attention.

Pelargonium has hitherto ruled supreme among Geraniacese, but why
is it that the genus oxalis, cultivated for more than a century and includ-
ing nearly two hundred and fifty species, has yielded only a few sports
and still fewer hybrids ? We venture to predict that were crossing and
selection practiced here the oxalis would again become the favorites they
once were. Equally true is it of impatiens. Some fine species are now
common, and, though annual, their rapid growth and wealth of blossom
puts them alongside the petunias that have had so much favor shown them.

It has always seemed to the writer remarkable that the pea order
should have furnished so few crosses even under cultivation. Neglect
may be the simple explanation. Already we have the gorgeous hybrids of
Brownea, but the whole group is practically untouched. Skill and care
will be needed in manipulating them. As already indicated, nature shows
us that the rose order is an inviting one, but though fine hybrids of rosa>
geum and potentilla are in cultivation many herbaceous, shrubby and
tree types remain to be taken in hand.

I should like to linger for a little over the Onagrariese. The successes
wrought on the continent with Fuchsia from the southern hemisphere
should meet with a response from Americans in the species of CEnothera,
a genus that includes nearly a century of species, mostly western Ameri-
can. Such lovely evening primroses as (E. Whitneyi, CE. marginata and
CE. coespitosa might have their rather short-lived flowers prolonged, their
habit improved and their scent accentuated by union with CE. speciosa.
Or some of these again might be combined with the large yellow flowered
species. In aiming at such crosses our florists should not think only of
the short twilight prevalent over many of the states, but of the longer
one enjoyed in England and other European countries where these hand-
some plants are eagerly welcomed.

If any order deserves to be called American and par excellence St.
Louisian, that is the Cactaceoa. The ease with which they can be crossed
and the small care needed in their cultivation are most commendable
qualities. If we may judge from past experience the order lends itself
well to the hybridizer, as is proved by the union not merely of cereus and
phyllocactus, but of these again with epiphyllum.

We spoke of Central America as a source of supplies, but the wealth
of such rubiaceous genera as plumeria would alone furnish material for
extended work. The remarks made regarding the pea order equally apply
to the still larger group of the daisies and sunflowers. Many wild hybrids
of the hawkweeds and thistles are known, but garden hybrids are rare.

106 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Zet see how much success has come to the Erfurt strains of zinnia and
to the now time-honored Dahlia. These are fingerposts to the florist in
the truest sense. Did time permit, the heaths, the milkweeds and many
others might be noted, but one group cannot be passed over. All who
have seen a well grown specimen of Bignonia venusta clambering over
some Florida home or wreathing the roof srirders of a hothouse further
north have stopped to admire. It and its allies are choice climbers.
Blending of such hardy species as B. capreolata and B. grandiflora with
other yellows and reds, also of B. speciosa, B. purpurea and the lovely
Mascarene B. telfairise, would be noble work in itself.

Among Monocotyledons the orchids, cannas, hedychiums and ama-
ryllis have been so prolific in blending that we may safely take them as
an index for all, and as a verification of my position that however much
has been done the serious work and best fruits are yet before us.

In conclusion let me suggest to some enterprising florist an idea that
has often occurred to me. All leading commercial governments of the
world are now wisely establishing stations for rearing, propagating and
distributing economic and other plants. Would it not repay the efforts
of private firms to do likewise ? Mexico and central South America are
rich fields that are daily becoming more accessible. Such a forward step
might mark the commencement of fresh triumphs in the floral world.

FIRE RISKS ON GREENHOUSES.

Mr.. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis : Mr. President, I have a brief
announcement to make, as a committee of one on behalf of the Hail
Association, in regard to fire insurance matters. Last year, at a meeting
of the Hail Association, a committee, consisting of Mr. Esler, Mr. Horan
of Connecticut, and myself, was appointed to draft some specification as
to the classification of fire risks for greenhouse insurance. We prepared
a classification which was intended to secure for us a lower rate of fire
insurance for our greenhouse structures. After preparing this classifica-
tion we ascertained that some of the florists were securing as low a rate
as fifty cents per $100, while many of us had to pay four, five or six times
that amount. The lowest rate we heard of was fifty cents per $100 and
the highest was $3.

1 know of instances in which florists were refused insurance on green-
house structures simply because they were greenhouse structures. This
was probably due to the prejudice against such structures in years past,
when they were not as perfect and as fire-proof as they are now. We
have now, in our trade, a vast number of those structures, representing
millions of dollars of investment. Why can we not have the same uni-
form low rate of insurance upon them that other factories of a more
hazardous nature are paying ?

I think the rate of fifty cents per $100 is sufficiently high and I do
not think it is just that we should pay, as Mr. Hill was requested to pay,
$3 on every $100 per annum. Others are paying $1.50 and more.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 107

This matter has been referred to your Society because it interests
you ; and I hope you will see fit to appoint a committee and, if possible,
arrange with the National Underwriters or with their representatives, in
some manner, to secure an even, low rate for greenhouse structures of
accepted security or upon an accepted classification.

I move therefore that a committee of three be appointed to secure,
if possible, a general low rate of insurance, under accepted classification,
for risks from fire on greenhouse structures.

The motion of Mr. Miciiel was adopted without objection.

The committee thus authorized was constituted as follows : Messrs.
E. H. Michel, J. G. Esler and E. A. Seidewitz.

Pending the appointment of the committee, the following additional
remarks on the subject were made.

Mr. G. L. Grant : I suggest that the committee can make its work
valuable only through formulating some rules for the arrangement of
greenhouses so that large loss may be prevented. I want to state a case,
and it is one of a class in regard to which the insurance companies fix
very high rates. Some years ago I acted as one of the adjusters on a loss
in a greenhouse establishment. The policy was for SI, 000. A small fire
had started under some wooden steps in the boiler pit. There had been
no blaze, it had smouldered all night, the wood not being dry it had
smouldered there and a dense smoke, had permeated the house. We
went over the plants and were unable to figure that loss at less than $900.
The company paid it but the company's representative said to me : "It
is the last risk we will take on a greenhouse." It seems to me if this
committee could go into a consideration of that question and present ways
whereby these losses on contents might be prevented, we could secure
what we ask.

Some time ago a young man came to me, in Chicago, who had some
familiarity with the florist business. He thought of making a specialty
of fire insurance on greenhouses and hunting up companies that would
take such risks. He worked on it three or four weeks and, although he
had friends in strong insurance circles, he could make no progress in over-
coming the prejudice against such risks. In the insurance field they
want to see that every building is rated according to its own individual
risk. There are buildings in Chicago that have to pay five per centum,
others get one per centum, and it will be so with your greenhouses.

Mr. Michel : I had not intended to occupy any more time but, as
the gentleman has brought this matter up, I will say that the committee
having it in charge last year did undertake to make a classification of
these risks depending upon a construction of greenhouses and their sur-
roundings. We have taken the step ; wc have not gone into this blind-
folded but with a determination to overcome, if possible, what is a pre-

108 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

judice against greenhouse risks and which arises from risks taken not in
recent but in former years. These fires have not been of frequent occur-
rence of late. Mr. Esler has taken pains to sum up the number of losses
in greenhouse structures during the past year or two, as compared with
the number of losses by hail, and he has found that the per centum of
losses by fire has been less and the cost of hail insurance has been cheap.

Under the circumstances we will go forward with something to work
upon, but it will not be an easy task. The committee will need to have
the assistance of every florist in every city, when it is undertaking
insurance, in order that it may show how a greenhouse is constructed
and how difficult it will be for a fire to originate in it or to destroy it.

There is another point, and that is the matter of contents. We will
not undertake to form any sort of schedule for the insurance of contents
at present. "We will be doing enough if we can secure sufficient insurance
upon the houses. As to contents, in view of the difficulty of adjustment,
it is almost impossible to expect an insurance company to carry risks
upon them. In the course of time, after having our structures insured,
it may be that we can enter upon the insurance of the contents. For
instance, in reference to plants, if you had a fine Pandanus Veitchii and
another man had an old stump, which would look the better after a fire ?

The discussion here closed.

RECOGNITION OF DISTINGUISHED HORTICULTURISTS.

Mr. John Thorpe : Mr. President, in our midst we have some dis-
tinguished gentlemen from abroad, who are identified to a great extent
with the work that we have before us. I desire that the Society may
recognize that there are now present here such distinguished horticultur-
ists as Mr. George Nicholson, Professor Wittmack, Mr. Krelage, Mr.
Lemoine and Mr. Schiller. They are all identified in a practical way
with what we are doing. We have learned from them a great deal —
they may learn from us something.

I think, ladies and gentlemen, that we ought to be proud of this
opportunity to pay a compliment to these distinguished gentlemen from
the fact that they are " eighteen carat solid." [Applause.] They are
practical ; they can wash flower pots, they can shovel soil, and they can
correctly name plants. I suggest, Mr. President, that, before the close
of this meeting, we extend to these gentlemen all the honors to which
they are entitled. I think it would not be out of order that we should
pi'esent to the committee on final resolutions a suggestion to make these
gentlemen honorary members of our little Society. [Great applause.]

Mr. G. L. Grant, of Chicago, expressed the pleasure it would give
the Society to hear a few words from one or more of the gentlemen
named.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 109

Mr. George Nicholson, Curator of the Kew Gardens, London,
responded as follows : Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, — The prop-
osition just made by Mr. Thorpe is appreciated by me as a very great
honor. I look upon the Society of American Florists as a' great body.
It is not a " little " Society ; it is a very big Society and it is doing very
big work. It is capable of infinite possibilities. One of the things that
has most impressed me, since I came to this country, is the high class of
the papers read here ; the practical, plain way in which your members,
after having dearly paid for their experience, have communicated that
experience for the benefit of their friends, their rivals perhaps, their
competitors in trade. I think that is a wonderful characteristic ; in many
countries that would not obtain. In one of the speeches made yesterday
it was stated that you cannot get anything for nothing. I think you can
get a good deal for nothing by belonging to the Society of American
Florists. [Merriment and applause.] I am extremely obliged to you
for the honor you have done me ; I value it exceedingly and shall always
look back upon my visit to St. Louis with very grateful feelings. [Renewed
applause.]

(Calls were here made for Professor Wittmack, when it was stated
that he had previously retired from the hall.)

Mr. Ernest H. Krelage, of Haarlem, Holland, responding to calls,
expressed his appreciation of the honor conferred upon him. He said
he felt quite sure that it was the intention of Mr. Thorpe, in the proposi-
tion he had made, to honor not the individual who was now speaking but
the country (Holland) from which he came, and the men of that country
whose fame was known as horticulturists. America and Holland, the
speaker said, had always been friends, and he hoped the friendship
would always continue. [Applause.]

Mons. Jules Lemoine, head gardener city of Paris parks, being
called upon, expressed his thanks for the distinction shown him. He
said that in his brief visit to this country, he had learned much that
would be of value to him at home; that he regarded the flowers of America
as more beautiful than those of France, and that the country itself was
one of the grandest on earth. He added that his visit would be limited
to one month more and that he would never forget the kindness he had
received here. [Applause.]

committee on final resolutions.

The President announced the following as the committee on final
resolutions : Messrs. G. L. Grant, W. W. Coles and J. D. Carmody.

Adjourned.

110 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

FLORISTS' PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION.

After the close of the morning session the Florists' Protective
Association held its annual meeting. The following is a summary of
the Treasurer's report for year ending August 1, 1893.

Received for annual dues for 1892-93 $546.00

Received for blank forms 2.85

Total receipts $548.85

Paid for postage and envelopes $50.25

Paid for printing 155.50

Paid for exchange on drafts and checks . . . 25.63

Paid for express charges 3.05

Paid for advertising meeting of 1892 .... 5.40

Paid for extra clerical labor 75.00

Paid for Secretary's salary 200.00

Total payments $514.83

$34.02

Cash on hand September 1, 1892 $101.67

Cash on hand August 1, 1893 $135.69

The setting up and printing our former reports in one book, and the
printing of 200 draft books was a heavy expense for this year, but will
not occur again for several years at least.

FLORISTS' INTERNATIONAL TELEGRAPH-DELIVERY ASSOCIATION.

The Florists' International Telegraph-Delivery Association then held
its annual session.

The Secretary's report was as follows : —

Members of the Florists'1 International Telegraph-Delivery Association,
Greeting: — As the close of the first year found us occupying an advanced
ground, so the beginning of the third year finds us again better equipped
and occupying an advanced position, but we have not yet reached the
goal of our hopes and aims.

The end of the first year we had thirty-nine active members and the
beginning of the new year we have fifty-eight, a gain of nineteen, or
almost fifty per cent.

So few members made report of the year's business to reach me at
this writing (August 5th), that no information as to the amount of the
year's business can be given. However all reports so far received show a
handsome increase over amounts reported last year, and I think fore-
shadow a large increased business. Chicago and New Haven were not
represented last year, and for the year closed Chicago filled orders amount-

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. Ill

ing to $569.59, and sent out orders amounting to $151.75, while New
Haven sent out orders amounting to $418.08, and received orders
amounting to $5.00. Our New Haven representative has advertised
very freely and the amount of the orders sent out show the beneficial
results of proper advertising, and his course is to be commended and
recommended. The reports so far received are such interesting reading
that I hope and trust that all reports will be sent in in time to appear in
the Society of American Florists reports and proceedings of the St. Louis
meeting.

We are again confronted with the old question of more than one
representative for the larger cities. Florists from the large cities are
asking to be taken in, and 1 hope that in the deliberations of this meeting
there may some good way be found to at least get their orders.

A number of florists to whom orders have been sent, as recom-
mended in our code book (where we have no member) , have in one case
refused to fill the order, and in two others have refused to allow any dis-
count from retail prices — as fast as known all such parties will be dropped
from our list.

We are more than ever impressed that our Association is tilling a
" long felt want" and is destined to occupy a high, and we trust a profit-
able place in the favor of the flower loving and flower buying public ; but
it must be advertised, and advertised with the persistency of Pope's
Raven, who forever said " never more," and we in imitation must say
ever more, ever more — advertising.

Respectfully submitted,

H. B. Beatty, Secretary.

THIRD DAY — EVENING.

President Smith called the Convention to order at 8.30 p. m.

ELECTION OF PRESIDENT.

Mr. J. M. Jordan, from the committee appointed to notify Mr.
Hunt of his election as President, reported that they had called upon
that gentleman, at his rooms in the hotel, and had received from him a
statement in writing, which would speak for itself.

Secretary Stewart here read the statement, which was as follows :

" While deeply grateful to the members of the Society for this mark of
their friendship, I cannot consistently accept the office to which you have
elected me ; and ask, in the interest of harmony and good fellowship,
that you place in nomination a man upon whom you can all unite.

Yours truly,

M. A. Hunt.

112 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION

Mr. E. G. Hill : Mr. President, I think the course taken by Mr.
Hunt is entirely consistent with his expressions on the subject. He was
very emphatic in his statement that, under the circumstances, he did not
want the office ; and I think we all give him credit for honesty of purpose
and worthy motives. I want to say, though, on behalf of the florists of
the state of Indiana, that we all feel highly complimented by your action
in regard to our colleague and friend, Mr. Hunt. I tell you that the
florists of the state of Indiana, without exception, not only like Mr. Hunt
but, more than that, some of us love him as a dear friend. We know that he
is an upright man in heart and soul. As he has expressed it himself,
while deeply grateful to you for your kind remembrance of him, he thinks
it best to decline the office. (Applause.)

The President here suggested that the election of President be
proceeded with by ballot.

Mr. Harry Young, of St. Louis, said that, if the nomination of
candidates was in order, he desired to nominate Mr. W. A. Manda.

Mr. \V. A. Manda replied by expressing the opinion that the next

highest candidate in the balloting this morning, (Mr. Anthony), was

entitled to the office.

i

Mr. P. O'Mara said that the nominations had closed on the previous

day and, under the rules, they could not now be re-opened. As two of

the three candidates had declined, he moved that the Secretary cast the

ballot of the Society for Mr. Anthony.

The President ruled that the motion would require a unanimous
vote and, upon taking the vote and hearing negative responses, declared
the motion lost.

Mr. "W. K. Harris, of Philadelphia, in order to dispose of the
matter, moved that nominations be re-opened.

The motion prevailed.

Mr. W. K. Harris then nominated Mr. J. T. Anthony.

Mr. E. G. Hill in seconding the nomination, said he believed Mr.
Anthony to be a first class man, a man of energy, one who would honor
the office and who, under the circumstances, ought to receive the majority
vote of the Society.

Mr. W. A. Manda and Mr. W. W. Coles moved the nominations
close.

Several members who desired to make other nominations, protested
against the motion and some confusion ensued.

The motion was finally rejected.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 113

Mr. Harry Young, of St. Louis, then nominated W. A. Manda.

Mr W. J. Hesser, of Nebraska, nominated Alexander Wald-
bart, of St. Louis.

Mr. W. A. Manda said that while deeply indebted for the mention
of his name, he must positively decline to accept the honor. He con-
tinued : You want'to confer upon me the highest honor I can enjoy in
this country. Well, I am only thirty years old and I would have nothing
to live for in the remainder of my life. I want to have something to live
for and to strive for. [Applause.] If you can give me only kind memories
in the }rears to come, I will be content to serve the Society of American
Florists as far as I am able to do so ; but, gentlemen, I cannot accept
such a position when I see around me men who have worked hard and
long for the interests of the Society and who are more deserving of reward
than myself. [Great applause.]

On motion of Mr. P. O'Mara, the declination of Mr. Manda was
accepted.

The Convention then proceeded to ballot for president, Mr. Clark
and Mr. Michel acting as tellers. The result was as follows : —

"Whole number of votes cast, 66 ; necessary to a choice, 34. Prof.
Wm. Trelease received 1 ; Mr. Alexander Waldbart, 3 ; Mr.
E. H. Michel, 4 ; Mr. AY. A. Manda, 7 ; Mr. J. T. Anthony, 51
votes.

Mr. Anthony was declared elected President ; and Mr. E. A.
Seidewitz was appointed a committee of one to send a telegram of
notification to him at Chicago, to which city he had returned during the
afternoon.

ELECTION OF TREASURER.

On motion of Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo, Ind., the Convention
proceeded to the election of Treasurer.

On motion of Mr. W. K. Harris, of Philadelphia, the Secretary was
authorized to cast the ballot of the Society for Mr. Myron A. Hunt for
Treasurer.

The ballot was cast and Mr. Hunt declared elected.

the national charter.

Mr. Robert Craig, of Philadelphia, offered the following resolution,
which was seconded by Mr. W. W. Coles and adopted without objec-
tion : —

" Besolved, That in the event of a national charter being granted to
the Society, the President be empowered to call to Washington, D. C, as
many of the charter members and others as may in his judgment be

114 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

necessary to transfer the Society to the chartered organization and pre-
pare a draft of the new constitution, to be submitted to the next Con-
vention."

FIRST CLASS CERTIFICATES.

Mr. W. A. Manda, of Short Hills, N. J., offered the following
resolution, which was adopted without objection : — •

" Besolved, That the award of the Society, now known as a 'Certifi-
cate of Merit,' be hereafter designated a ' First Class Certificate.' "

LABOR SAVING DEVICES.

The subject of " Labor Saving Devices " was here presented to the
Convention in an interesting essay by Mr. P. O'Mara, of Jersey City.
The paper elicited many manifestations of approbation.

The following is Mr. O'Mara's essay : —

Mr. President, — The question of labor is perhaps the most import-
ant the florist has to consider, for the reason that it is the chief expense
in preparing his goods for sale. It is doubtful if in any branch of trade,
labor enters so largely into the cost of production as in floriculture, and
it is very likely that it will ever remain so, from the fact that the opera-
tions incident to plant growth must be carried on by hand ; there is
little if any room for the inventive genius, and the improvements of the
future, like those of the past, must be on the lines of simplifying and
shortening them. If it is expected that the paper which I have pre-
pared will contain startlingly new and improved methods, descriptions
of new machines or devices for accomplishing work which has heretofore
been done by slow manual processes, I fear that disappointment will
result. The principal value of such a paper as this is to bring out such,
if they exist ; and with that end in view, I corresponded with the fore-
most men in the trade — men who are recognized as being ever on the
alert for improved methods and machines — but the result was almost
nothing, for the simple reason, I believe that there was nothing to offer.

It was not the intention of the Executive Committee, I believe,
when they selected this subject for an essay, that the essayist should
prepare a catalogue of the implements now on the market and give a
detailed description of them ; they all have their points of excellence,
and find their way into the hands of buyers in a corresponding ratio to
their practical benefit, and the genius and energy of their advertisers ;
the worst of them have their partisans ; the best of them are in fair
general use, and it is doubtful if there is one within the sound of my
voice who is not conversant with their merits and demerits ; hence it
would be a useless waste of time to speak of them separately and at the
great length necessary to describe them accurately. In considering the
question of labor saving devices, however, a retrospect is inevitable.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 115

My actual experience in floriculture dates back twenty years, and in that
space of time, wonderfully short when compared with the age of the
profession, giant strides have been made in many directions ; production
has been cheapened ; the average hours of labor have been lessened,
particularly in the large establishments contiguous to the great cities.
When I first went to work the hours were from daylight to dark in
summer and winter ; today, in the same place, a day's work is ten hours
and a quarter, and yet, owing to improved methods of work and green-
house construction, the average cost of production is less today than it
was then. It has to be to meet a market which may be said to be falling
yearly ; if the prices remained as they were, and the improvements
advanced to their present state, the lot of the florist would be a happy
one. Then indeed, he might be the man rapidly growing rich, which the
average newspaper reporter loves to dilate upon, and the facetious
paragrapher associates with the plumber during a severe winter, and the
ice man after a mild one. We would no doubt have received a larger
accession from the ranks of the " bulls " and "bears" of Wall Street,,
the cotton brokers and iron kings, and other poor fellows who need the
honest dollar that the rich and haughty florist is battling for under such
alleged rosy conditions, they no doubt could suggest a labor saving
device for watering our stock ; but up to the present time a divider is all
they have introduced, a divider of meager protits. But this is a digres-
sion.

The greatest strides in labor saving to be noticed in floriculture have
been made in greenhouse building, and the substitution of enduring iron
and slate in the construction of benches and superstructures for rapidly
decaying lumber. In answer to a letter which I sent to Mr. F. R. Pier-
son, asking him to give me information regarding any new devices he
might have in use which were labor saving, he referred me to his excel-
lent paper on " Greenhouse Construction," read before this Society at
the annual Convention in Toronto, in 1891, as embodying nearly every-
thing in that line which he has in use up to date. It is to be assumed
that the paper in question has been read and carefully digested by the
members of this Society, and also the excellent papers on the same sub-
ject by Messrs. Hill and May ; if not, those interested should read them,,
as they are to be found in the report of the proceedings of that Conven-
tion. In these days when we have two weekly papers devoted to the
interests of the trade, conducted by enterprising men, and the spirit of
enlightenment is abroad so that knowledge of labor saving devices is
rapidly and thoroughly disseminated through our ranks, there is little
left for an essayist on this subject to say that has not been said before.
There is no doubt that the greatest labor saver is a system of work
adapted to the needs of the establishment, and a man competent to keep
it in working order, and with brains and energy enough to change it as
the conditions may demand. It is impossible to lay down general rules
or methods of procedure and adhere to them inflexibly, it would be

116 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

absurd, as absurd perhaps as if the captain of a ship would in leaving a
port to cross the ocean lash his helm at a given angle, which if nothiug
interfered would bring his safely to his destination ; but wind, wave and
tide do their part, and he has to have a free helm to meet and overcome
them. In like manner, the florist has to vary his system to meet ever
changing conditions. There are, however, some general principles
which might be followed with advantage, and although not new, yet may
not be generally known, or if known practiced as fully as they might be.
Il was an axiom with the late Mr. Peter Henderson, under whom [
had the honor of learning what I know about floriculture, that " For
rapidity of work divide labor." The practical application of this theory
consisted mainly in dividing the ordinary operations into as many hands
as could be used to the greatest advantage. For instance, in potting he
would have a man do nothing but pot, while a boy would take away the
plants and " set "' them ; another would keep him supplied with pots
and cuttings, and shade and water the potted plants. In this way he
succeeded in raising the maximum of a day's work in potting such plants
as verbenas from five thousand to eleven thousand five hundred, which
one of his men accomplished in ten hours ; the same man repeatedly
potted ten thousand in a day of ten hours, and I can say from actual,
experience, that the work was as well done as when only half the
number was potted. That this extraordinary proficiency was not con-
lined to one man was shown in the potting contest in Madison Square
Garden, when one of the men from our establishment — that of Peter
Henderson iV. Co. — potted over thirteen hundred in a single hour, and
two others potted over twelve hundred and eleven hundred each in the
same space of time. This same principle of dividing labor he practiced
in market gardening, and with a like result. He invariably had boys to
•drop the plants for men planting cabbage and celery, and frequently
demonstrated that a man with a boy to drop the plants would accomplish
more than two men planting singly and each carrying his own plants.
This theory of the division of labor he carried into all operations ; in
packing he always supplied each wrapper with a boy to turn the plants
out of the pots and cany them away. By keeping a man employed at
one thing, he performs the same motions so often that he must of neces-
sity acquire speed, just as type-setters, typewriters, telegraph operators
or postal clerks in our large postoffices do. Another advantage derived
from this system is that it keeps the hands together, making it easier for
the man in charge to watch them ; it makes of each man in charge of a
certain job a temporary foreman over those immediately under him, and
it generates a spirit of emulation among the men and boys to keep up
their end ; all of which combined makes a very good labor saving device
for the man who pays the salaries. It has its advantages also to the men
themselves, by becoming extra proficient they earn more, and when they
start in business for themselves they are better equipped to carry on the
:stru<?2le for fame and fortune on their own account. This principle of

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 117

the division of labor cannot, of course, be carried out to the same extent
in a small place as in a large one ; but it can be applied less or more
in even the smallest establishment, and the result will ever be the same.
It is applied as a natural consequence in places devoted to cut flower
growing where the operations are fewer and simpler than in a large
plant growing and shipping place. It is also applied in places mainly
devoted to a few leading specialties and it is partly the application of
this principle, unconscious or otherwise, which gives the specialist his
greatest advantage over the general grower in a cheaper method of
production.

Another thing which I consider of the utmost importance in any
effort to obtain a saving of labor is, that the employer should foster a
spirit of individual enterprise among his employees ; each should be
made to feel, if possible, that he is not expected to be a mere machine to
perform in a perfunctory manner the duties allotted to him ; he should
be made to feel a personal responsibility, and thus secure the benefit of
whatever portion of brains with which Nature has endowed him, as well
as his physical labor ; he should be made to feel that his value depends
in a great measure on the suggestions he may make for his employer's
benefit. It requires some tact and a knowledge of human nature to
secure this, both of which it is assumed the employer possesses, or he
would never rise above his fellow workmen ; for the vast majority of
employing florists, it is known, have risen from the ranks of the tioriMs
and gardeners who at one time earned their daily wages. Such men
then, above all others, should know that a man of ordinary intelligence
constantly engaged in working practice will in all likelihood suggest and
carry out improvements, if properly urged. Such has been the experi-
ence in every branch of human endeavor. The vast and complicated
machinery used in the production and distribution of the necessaries and
luxuries of our nineteenth century civilization was not brought to its
present advanced state by the genius of the original inventor, it owes
much to the humble, and in many cases unknown workman, who con-
trolling its movements day by day, saw where improvements could be
effected, and either carried them out himself or gave birth to the germ
of thought which was acted upon and carried into effect by the superior
intelligence of his employer. By maintaining this attitude toward his
employees, the employer, or the man to whom as foreman or superin-
tendent he delegates his authority, will without a particle of doubt obtain
the best results from his paid labor, assuming always that a judicious
reward is given to the men who make or suggest the improvements. It
places the employer and employed on the best possible footing, relieves
the employer of much necessary detail, and fosters that esprit de corps
without which the best leader cannot hope to obtain the best possible
results. Strict discipline should be maintained at all times, and a uni-
form degree of quiet command enforced ; the irritable, blustering em-
ployer cannot hope to obtain either in quantity or quality the same

118 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

results as the one who is at once master of himself and the men under
him.

These are some general principles which may properly be included
under the head of "labor saving devices," and 1 offer them for the
earnest consideration of my listeners.

There are a few labor saving devices in practical operation in our
place which may not be generally known, and which might be copied to
advantage. One of these is our method of handling two and three inch
pots. Under the old method, these as they were emptied in the packing
shed or in the greenhouses when shifting into larger pots, were placed in
" flats " to be piled away under a bench in a house designated for that
purpose. Now, and for some time past, our method is to have empty
boxes of a certain size read}', and place the pots in them as fast as
emptied, thus saving double handling. For two inch pots we generally
use a box 18 x 12 x 6£, which holds two hundred and fifty pots. These
boxes we obtain from the local grocers when they sell their canned goods
and have the empty boxes on hand. For three inch pots we use a box
18 x 13 x 10, which holds one hundred and fifty pots. These boxes cost,
delivered on our place, four or five dollars per hundred. The pots when
placed in them are just below the edges so that they can be piled one
above another, and can be carted from point to point on our place as
needed. Tin* method of handling pots is a considerable saving in labor
in the course of a year, and lessens breakage proportionately to the
number of times they are handled. The larger sizes of pots we store
away in bins prepared for the purpose, and always use a horse and cart
to move them to the points where they are to be used, in fact, we use a
horse and cart or wagon to move pots and plants wherever it is possible,
and save considerable manual labor in this way ; the extent of our place
naturally suggests this method, on a small place it would hardly be prac-
I Lcable.

For the " fiats" in general use in a florist's establishment, we use
shallow boxes which measure 20 x 14 x If deep; these we obtain from the
Standard Oil Company at two dollars per hundred. These boxes they
obtain by importing the tin plate, and as they are nearly waste to them,
they sell them at a low rate. Another size 21 x lOf x 3| deep, we obtain
from them and find them very useful for forcing tulips, narcissus,
Roman hyacinths, etc., also for starting palm seeds. These boxes are
much cheaper than if made by hand from sawed lumber or by dividing
larger boxes into sections. Our system for the distribution and collec-
tion of tools we find to give great satisfaction. "We keep them under
lock and key, and depute a man to take care of them. He is not fully
occupied at this, and so finds other employment around the place. When
a man wants a tool, he taps the bell which we use to summon and dis-
miss the men ; and the man in charge of the tool-house hastens to it
and cjives the man the tool he wants. When the tool is returned the bell
is tapped again, and the man comes and puts it where it belongs. By

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 119

this system we have no trouble in keeping track of the implements, and
the least possible time is consumed in distributing and collecting them.

In sifting potting soil for small pots we use an upright screen with a
one inch mesh, such as is used in coal yards, and find that it does the
work as well and far more rapidly than a small circular sieve can do it.
This season we had on trial a swinging sieve fitted up with iron teeth to
break sods, but found it next to useless, although it is advertised with a
guarantee to do the work of twenty men. It is fair to say, however, that
the manufacturer supposed that florists still used the circular hand sieve,
otherwise he said he would never give such a guarantee.

Tbis season, on account of the very dry weather, we were compelled
to water our outside grounds almost constantly, and we used a device
which worked satisfactorily and saved considerable labor. We use city
water metered to us, and have piped our grounds thoroughly with
hydrants at convenient distances throughout. Instead of having a man
to hold the hose and distribute the water we used the device alluded to.
This consisted of a Y piece inserted at the end of every twenty-five foot
length of hose, one arm of which served as a connection between the
lengths, and on the other arm we fastened a "Water Witch" lawn
sprinkler. We use one inch hose, and have force of water sufficient to
operate five of these sprinklers on one stretch of hose, so that we could
water a surface of 125 x 12 feet without any labor but the stretching of
the hose and turning on the water. About two hours we found sufficient
to water one place, and then the hose would be moved. The location of
hydrants is a very important one from a labor saving point of view. In
our one-hundred-foot houses, when once erected, we placed a hydrant at
one end, but some years ago we changed the system, and now have the
hydrants iu the centre of the houses, one on each side of the middle
bench. In our three-hundred-foot houses we have the hydrants at inter-
vals of fifty feet, and as just stated, our grounds are thoroughly piped
and well supplied with hydrants. The amount of labor saved in one year
by this method I am satisfied more than paid the entire expense of the
alteration, besides the great saving in hose must be taken into account,
which in itself is a considerable item.

It is of the utmost importance to keep a greenhouse water-tight, not
only to prevent rotting of the structure but for the general health of the
plants grown in it. We have found by experience that the lapse of time
rots the putty in which the glass is embedded, no matter how well it may
be done, that water gets in loosens the glass and rots the bars. Many
devices have been tried to overcome this but the best we have yet seen
is one which was suggested to Mr. Charles Henderson at the Convention
of the Society of American Florists in Cincinnati by the late H. W.
Williams, of Batavia, 111. This consists of white lead and oil in about the
consistency of cream spread in a thin line along the edge of the glass
where it joins the bar, over this we shake dry white sand, the result is a
cement which lasts for years and effectually checks all leakage. The

120 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

best implement to distribute this is a machinist's oil can with the extreme
tip cut off so as to widen the aperture and allow a free escape of the
mixture. As an evidence of how rapidly this work can be done, I would
state that two men finished the long slope of a three hundred foot house
in half a day. This method is described by Peter Henderson in his book
Gardening for Profit, and was made the subject of a magazine article,
but I deem it of sufficient importance to introduce it here. Mr. Hender-
son stated that had he known of this method thirty years earlier, it would
have saved him thousands of dollars for repairs besides having the plants
in better condition.

The foregoing is about all there is that I can think of which would
be of general interest. We may use some methods differing from others
which may be as good but no better and which therefore are not worth
dwelling upon.

Before bringing this paper to a close, however, it may be well to
devote a minute or two to a general review of the improvements effected
during the last twenty years. The general application of the screw and
cog wheel to ventilating, with its many improvements, replacing the
rope and pulley and hand-lifting sash, and now we have an automatic
ventilating apparatus which gives fair promise of becoming a practical
reality. The great improvements made in heating apparatus both hot
water and steam, the improved glazing tacks and methods of driving
them, the advance made in fungicides and insecticides and the improved
methods of distributing and applying them, the diffusion of knowledge
concerning the insects and fungi which are the most subtle and dangerous
foes the florist has to contend with, the grand advance in greenhouse
construction which I have already alluded to, the general substitution of
horse and hand cultivators for the hand hoe, the use of steam pumps for
distributing manure and plain water in many of our larger establishments,
the use of printed labels both wooden and paper, the light and neat
mailing boxes, the improved methods of packing plants, the general
adoption of wire, cane and manufactured stakes in lieu of split shingle
and branches of trees, the great general advance in plant knowledge and
methods of culture, in all of which this Society has acted a prominent part
by bringing men together for a fair interchange of ideas, by establishing
a press devoted to the general interest, and by exciting a healthy competi-
tion. It is a matter of congratulation that the vast majority, nay almost
the whole of these improvements, owe their existence to men who were
actually engaged in the active work of floriculture. We owe much to the
entomologists and mycologists, those patient investigators who delve
deep into nature's mysteries and lay the results of these investigations
before us ; we owe much to the men who have carefully and patiently
studied how to improve methods of culture, who have spent time and
money in their investigations and have scattered broadcast the knowl-
edge laboriouslv obtained for the benefit of their stru^sflins; brethren.
We owe much to the horticultural press for their enterprise and energy in

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 121

obtaining and disseminating this knowledge and we owe much to the
faithful officers of this Society, past and present, for the work they have
performed in their official capacity.

In closing this paper, I am sensible of many errors of omission ; let
me express the hope that the discussion which is to follow will supply
these, weaken what is weak and strengthen what may appear to be strong
for the truth, the whole practical truth is what we want. When the
Executive Committee delegated to me the duty of preparing a paper on
this all important subject, I doubted the wisdom of their choice, but like
a faithful soldier I accepted the duty allotted to me and have performed
it to the best of my ability. As I step down from the pedestal of the
pedagogue and take my place once more among the ranks of the scholars,
for we are scholars all, I once more express the hope that my omissions
will be supplied and my errors corrected by a free discussion of the subject.

Discussion of the subject was invited.

Mr. J. D. Carmody, of Evansville, Ind., said that, as no one else
seemed to have the temerity to talk upon the subject, he would attempt
to break the ice in order that speakers more competent than himself
might follow him. He continued : —

I think the paper is a very able one and has covered the ground, in
a general way, as well as it could possibly be covered. But it is the little
minutiae that make up the whole sum in the matter of ease, comfort and
success in floriculture. One little item which has lately occurred to me
is that of the construction of the ridge-pole of a greenhouse, in the con-
struction of the house. It is where the rafters centre, where a great deal
of the drip in the house originates ; where the ventilating sash come
together and often become warped, presenting openings through which
air and water easily enter. The construction I refer to is a little different
from anything I have seen heretofore, and it is so simple that I wonder
some other fellow had not thought of it before. The ridge of the house
is to be constructed in the following manner. The top of the ridge-pole
is flush with the rafters and slanted to the centre, with the same pitch as
the roof. The ventilating sash should be continuous with, and extend
at the top to the centre of, the ridge-pole ; being shaped to conform with
the slant of the rafters on the opposite side. When sash are securely
hinged at the bottom, connect the whole line together by a cap-board
nailed to the upper ridge of the sash and extending over the remaining
exposed portion of the ridge-pole, like the band on a box-lid. You thus
prevent air or water from entering at this otherwise exposed point. 1
suggest this as the proper manner of constructing the ridge of a green-
house. [Applause.]

(No additional remarks being made, the discussion here closed.)

122 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

FINAL RESOLUTIONS.

Mr. J. D. Carmody, from the committee appointed to prepare final
resolutions, reported the following ; which, on motion of Mr. Hauswirth,
were adopted unanimously : —

Mr. President, and Members of the Society of American Florists, —
We, your committee on final resolutions, beg leave to submit the follow-
ing report : —

Whereas, The florists and citizens of the good city of St. Louis have
honored our Society by extending to us the most cordial hospitality and
entertaining us in a most royal manner ;

Resolved, That this Society takes pleasure in returning the heart-
felt thanks of each member for the enjoyment received.

Resolved, That we especially honor your worthy Mayor Wallbridge
for his grand utterances so flattering to our profession and for the free-
dom of the city so kindly proffered.

Resolved, That to your honored citizen and our Vice-President, Prof.
Trelease and to the Trustees of Shaw Garden we are greatly indebted
for the delightful visit to and entertainment at that far famed Mecca of
every florist in America.

Resolveil. That to the Florists' Club of this great city located on the
banks of the " Father of Waters," we owe a debt of gratitude for their
assistance in the transaction of business pertaining to our Society, for
the carriage ride through their beautiful city and for their labors in secur-
ing for us the many hospitalities that have made our visit one round of
pleasure.

Resolved, That in the presence of Prof. Dr. L. Wittmack, Mr. Geo.
Xicholson, Mons. Jules Lemoiue, Mr. F. Schiller and Mr. Ernest H.
Krelaage, the eminent kindred spirits from across the seas whose able
efforts have aided in the elevation of our noble profession to its present
dignity among the vocations that characterize a high degree of civilization,
we feel highly honored.

Resolved, That the Pastime Athletic Club of your city is entitled to
our thanks for the generous proffer of their elegant premises for the use
of the merry bowlers of our Society.

Resolved, That to the Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association we are
indebted for their kind attentions and princely hospitality ; to Mr. D. S.
Brown, for a most enjoyable visit to his grounds, and to the Autumnal
Festivities Association for a view of the magnificent illumination of
the cit}r ; finally,

Resolved, That we, visiting florists, will take home with us a better
knowledge and more favored opinion of your beautiful city ; that we
are made better by our association with you, and as years roll by we
will ever retain in our memory fond recollections of St. Louis, her hospit-
able florists and kind citizens.

Very respectfully submitted,

J. D. Carmody.
W. W. Coles.

presentation of testimonials.

At this point the Convention was entertained by some interesting
proceedings not provided for on the program. These consisted in the

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 123

presentation of testimonials from the members to Mr. J. M. Jordan, of
the St. Louis Florists' Club, and Mr. Wm. R. Smith, the President of the
Society : namely, to the former a silver water service, and to the latter a
gold watch and chain. Both gentlemen were evidently surprised by
these unexpected manifestations of appreciation of their labors.

Mr. Robert Kift, of Philadelphia, addressing Mr. Jordan, (who
had come forward in response to the call of the chair) , said : —

Mr. Jordan, anything that I could say in commendation of your
course as a member of our loved profession would be but faint and inad-
equate praise. You have always been an active and progressive worker,
a leader, not a follower ; and now you occupy a position which is far
above all others, that of a self-made and successful man. Your course
through life has been an example which it would be well for all young
men of the profession to follow. And now, Mr. Jordan, on behalf of
your many friends in the Society, it gives me great pleasure to present to
you this slight token of their appreciation. May it bring to you a useful
and serviceable remembrance. TV7e hope that through many happy
years, the cooling draughts you will enjoy from it, may recall this meet-
ing of the Society, which to us has been filled with pleasant occasions ;
and that time may never efface it from your memory. [Applause.]

Mr. Jordan, upon recovering from his surprise, spoke of the embar-
rassment under which he labored, though he said he was not often
embarrassed in looking in men's faces, as he had been used to it all his
life ; but his friends had certainly taken control of him today. He added
that he failed to understand what it was he had done to merit this special
token of kindly feeling for him, as he had not asked a member to take a
drink nor even given one a ride on the cars. His invitation to members
to come to his house, he thought had not been acted upon. Therefore
he wanted to know what it was he had done, so that he could tell others
how to do the same thing.

*o

Mr. Carmody : You have done your duty. [Applause.]

Mr. Jordan : I am glad there is one man who says so, but I do not
believe it. I often realize how I could have done a great deal more than
I did.

Mr. Jordan then returned his thanks for the compliment, and as-
sured his hearers that the occasion would always have a warm place in
his heart. He remarked that while at times he may have been thought
to be blunt-spoken, and may have done things from the wrong end, yet
he had loved the Society from the beginning, and had often upbraided
himself for his failure to do more for it than he had done. He regretted
that any friction had occurred in the election of president, and trusted
that this had been smoothed over and would soon be forgotten. [Ap-
plause.]

124 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

Mr. E. H. Michel, of St. Louis, in making the presentation to
President Smith, after referring to that gentleman's eight months' of
watchful soJicitude for the welfare of the Society, called attention to the
objects of the Society, which he said were manifold. The first was the
instruction received at its meetings in connection with which Mr. Smith
had been an ardent worker in many directions. Another object was
sociability among the members ; and in this particular, the President,
notwithstanding his age, had been equally as efficient as any of the
younger members. The furtherance of the commercial interests of the
members was another object ; and Mr. Smith had been conspicuous in
his labors at Washington for two or three years to get a charter for the
Society. In the elevation of the florists' business to a higher plane,
which was another object, the President had been prominent by his
advocacy of schools for florists and like agencies, particularly for the
study of botany ; his position being one in which he could accomplish
much in this direction.

In recognition of these services of the President, the speaker said
the members present had decided to present him with the little token
now exhibited, that it might be a means of recalling recollections of the
many friendships Mr. Smith had made, and an evidence of the apprecia-
tion of the donors for the able services he had rendered. They wished
he might be seen at many annual meetings, and that his great work
might continue. [Applause.]

President Smith responded in tones tremulous with emotion ; he
said : —

Mr. Michel, Ladies and Gentlemen, — The trying position in which
you have placed me almost prevents me from saying anything. Did I
utter the feelings of my heart you would be agitated as well as I am, but
I have not the voice to do so. There is nothing that I will cherish
through life like the present you have given me. There are no
words at my command to express to you the depth and sincerity of the
grateful feelings which overwhelm me at this moment. I can only thank
you from the bottom of my heart, and assure you that I will treasure this
occasion as a lasting and delightful memory forever.

Permit me to say, that one of the grandest and best agencies for
elevating our profession is the one to which I am indebted for whatever
distinction has been accorded me in my profession. I allude to the
educational establishment of which our distinguished guest, Mr. Nichol-
son, the curator of the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, is the representa-
tive. It would have pleased me much if that gentleman could have
been present this evening to see how the young of America have hon-
ored one whose early training was received in that establishment.

I wish to say further, that it has been to me a gratification and de-
light to meet you all here, and my visit to St. Louis will be numbered
among my red-letter days on earth. I have seen on all sides the genial

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 125

faces and the out-stretched hands of kind friends ; and in our mutual
enjoyment and delight we have had a foretaste of that higher sphere of
happiness which we all expect to reach in the great hereafter. [Long
continued rounds of applause.]

TEMPERING WATER FOR GREENHOUSES.

The '' Question Box " was here taken up ; the first query being " The
best and simplest means for tempering water for greenhouse use."

Mr. J. D. Carmody, who had been selected to make the reply,
said : —

The question is one that nearly concerns the best interests of every
man who cultivates flowers. We all know that the application of warm
water will materially aid the growth of plants. But to get that water
warm generally necessitates expense and labor. I think I can suggest to
you a very simple way by which it may be done with no expense, and
that it will pay from the start. Every florist has a steam or water-heat-
ing apparatus of some sort. Every boiler has a chimney to take the
surplus smoke and heat from it. Introduce into that chimney a small
U-shaped pipe. You can heat large quantities of water by simply con-
necting this pipe with a water tank. You then utilize the heat that
would otherwise be lost. A hose from the tank leading to any part of
the greenhouse will supply the hot water when desired. [Applause.]

EXTENDING THE FLOWERING TIME OF POPULAR VARIETIES.

In reply to the next question, as to " The advisability of extending
the flowering time of certain popular varieties of plants," Mr. J. M.
Jordan, being called upon, said it was difficult for him to determine
exactly what was meant. He continued : —

If the allusion is to blooming through the winter certain varieties
that bloom along in the summer, I would say that that is desirable, as
the more good flowers we can get at the time of year when they are
scarce and cannot be cut in the open ground, the better it is for the
trade. If the allusion is to flowers that bloom at their best in the fall,
and to extending them into the winter, that might be detrimental. If
we could continue the large amount of bloom of the chrysanthemums
during the winter months, if they could be grown easily in certain
places, I might say it would be a good thing, because there are times in
the winter when it is very difficult to get any kind of flowers. If the
question was a little more definite I might give my opinion upon how the
matter would work in St. Louis. As to how it would work in other
parts of the country I am unable to say. Our whole effort in the green-
house department in giving it a tropical condition, is toward extending
the season of flowering of all the plants we keep in the greenhouse. If
it was not for that they would not be extended beyond their season of

126 PROCEEDINGS OF NINTH CONVENTION,

temperate heat. At the same time I think it is well to extend the flower-
ing of any plant that is a nice bloom and will be bought and utilized. I
would say extend through the winter every plant that we can, for we
are far from having sufficient flowers.' Just so long as flowers will go up
in price two or three hundred per cent, through the holidays, I say we
want to continue to cultivate every kind of flower we can get until we
have as many flowers as will meet the demand of the holiday times.
When we come down to a steady drive, from the beginning of the fall
and through the spring, the better it will be for the trade ; but I think it
is decidedly detrimental to the trade to have flowers go up two or three
hundred per cent, at holiday time ; and if this extending the time of
flowering of certain plants will overcome that, I would say by all means
encourage their cultivation.

IIEATIXG BY HOT WATER.

The next question was as follows : " In heating with hot water
under pressure, what size of pipes and how many are required to heat a
house 20 x 200 to sixty degrees, when outside temperature goes as low as
twenty-eight degrees below zero? "

The reply, prepared by Ernst Asmus, of West Hoboken, N. J.,
(who was not present) was read by Secretary Stewart. It was as
follows : —

The question is rather indefinite as it don't state what kind of a
house, whether a leanto, evenspan or three-quarter span, whether it has
glass on sides and ends, nor does it say how much pressure is wanted, all
of which makes a material difference when figuring to pipe a house
satisfactorily.

Taking for granted that the questioner meant a three-quarter span
house with glass on roof, front and one end, I would use twelve rows of
two inch pipe under a pressure of fifteen pounds, and I will guarantee to
keep sixty degrees or more with a suitable boiler and a good fire of good
Lehigh coal, if the outside temperature goes as low as thirty degrees
below zero.

I have houses of the above description of nineteen feet width in which
I use only nine rows of pipe, and I have never seen the time when I
could not keep it up to sixty degrees under the coldest weather in this
latitude, which was fourteen degrees below zero last winter.

The paper of Mr. Asmus was much applauded.

GRAFTED ROSES FOR WINTER BLOOMING.

The next question was, " Is it advisable to plant grafted roses for
winter blooming ? "

Mr. W. W. Coles, of Kokomo,Ind.,was the respondent. His reply,
which was followed by applause, was as follows : —

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN FLORISTS. 127

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, — So far as my experience has
gone grafted roses have certain advantage over own roots for winter
blooming.

Asa rule the plants make a stronger and more vigorous growth, the
stems are stiff er and the buds have more substance. Grafted plants were
given a good trial last winter with the Mme. Caroline Testout.

About three hundred on own roots were planted and the same num-
ber of grafted (on the Mannetti) in one bench. There was certainly a
marked difference in favor of the grafted plants, from the time they
started to grow until they were thrown out. I also grafted some Kaiserin
Augusta Victoria with like results.

Another advantage with grafted plants is that an overdose of water
does not seem to affect them as it would plants on their own roots.

No doubt the greatest advantage with grafted plants is the rapidity
in which stock can be gotten up. A single eye can be grafted say April
1st, and by May 15th will be a strong plant twelve inches high in a four
or five inch pot, which is a saving of more than two month's time over
own root plants. This is certainly an important item, especially when we
are working up a stock of new and high priced varieties. I am so well
pleased with the results of my experience with grafted roses for winter
blooming that I shall try the experiment on a larger scale hereafter.

Some of my brethren may ask : "Does not the Mannetti have a
tendency to rest during the dark days of winter ? " I most emphatically
say no, and if any of you here wish to demonstrate this by experience,
just take a Mannetti plant and set it in one corner of your rose bed ; you
will find it grows more vigorous through the winter months than most tea
roses on their own roots. These ideas are given with this exception, that
different soils may produce different results.

At a late hour (all pending business having been disposed of) , the
Convention adjourned, and here the proceedings terminated.

WILLIAM J. STEWART,

Secretary.

APPENDIX.

LETTERS FROM ABROAD.

In accordance with a vote passed by the Executive Committee, last
winter, invitations were sent to a number of prominent horticulturists of
foreign countries, who might come to visit the World's Columbian Expo-
sition, inviting them to attend this Convention at the same time, if
possible. In response to these invitations the following letters were
received by the Secretary, in addition to the one read before the Society.
(See page 48) : —

V. LEMOINE & FILS, HORTICUI/TEURS.

Nancy, Aug. 1, 1893.
Mr. Wjvi. J. Stewart, Sec. of the So. of Amer. Florists, St. Louis, Mo.:
Dear Sir, — I beg to acknowledge with thanks the receipt of your
kind invitation to assist at the annual meeting of the Society, but my
approaching marriage obliges me to renounce visiting Chicago and the
Exposition, as was my intention. Most thankful for your cordial letter,
I remain,

Respectfully yours,

V. Lemoine & Fils.

BOTANICAL GARDENS.

Edgbaston, Birmingham, July 27, 1893.
W. J. Stewart, Esq. :

My Dear Sir, — Nothing would have given me greater pleasure than
to attend the annual meeting of the Society of American Florists at St.
Louis on August 9, and following days, had I been visiting the United
States of America in connection with the World's Columbian Exposition
and Horticultural Congress at Chicago. As I am not able to do so,
please tender my best thanks to the Society of American Florists for their
k nd invitation to attend the above meeting.

Believe me, truly yours,

W. B. Latham.

11 APPENDIX.

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN.

Edinburgh, July 27, 1893.

Dear Sir, — I regret exceedingly that 1 am unable to accept the kind

invitation to attend the annual meeting of the Society of American

Florists in St. Louis, Mo., on August 9. Please convey to the Society

my best thanks for the honor they have done me by inviting me to

become their guest on such an important occasion. Wishing your

Society every success, I am,

Yours truly,

R. Lindsay.

the gardeners' chronicle office.

London.
W. J. Stewart, Esq., Secretary Society of American Florists :

Dear Sir, — I am extremely obliged for your kind and flattering
invitation to St. Louis, a city which has special interests for me as the
residence for so long a time of my old friend, Dr. Engelmann, and also
for the sake of the Shaw Botanic Garden, the progress of which is
watched here with much interest.

It is, however, quite impossible for me to accept the invitation you
do me the honor to make, but I shall none the less retain a hearty appre-
ciation of the kindness of your great Society.

Faithfully yours,

Maxwell T. Masters.

HERBARIUM. ROYAL GARDENS.

Kew, July 27, 1893.

Dear Sir, — I am very much obliged to the Society of American
Florists for their invitation to attend their annual meeting at St. Louis,
but am sorry to say I shall not be able to accept it.

Yours truly,

I. G. Baker.

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS.

Dublin, Aug. 5, 1893.
W. J. Stewart, Esq. :

Dear Sir, — Will you kindly convey to the Society of American
Florists my sincere thanks for the friendly and hospitable invitation to
be present at the annual meeting at St. Louis. I greatly regret that
business arrangements will not permit of my so doing, a circumstance
over which I have no control. Trusting that your meeting may be in
every way successful, I am,

Faithfully yours,

F. W. Moore.

APPENDIX. Ill

17 EUE DE Bellechasse.

Dear Sir, — I am very sorry that my previous engagements prevent
my attending the meeting in St. Louis. It is with some difficulty that I
shall arrive in Chicago on the 16th.

I hope, however, that the Horticultural Congress to be held there
will give me an opportunity of meeting several of the American florists,
to whom I shall be happy to express my warmest thanks for the polite
invitation to assist at their special meeting in St. Louis.

Believe me, dear sir,

Yours very sincerely,

Henry L. Vilmorin.

HERRENHAUSEN HANOVER.

To the Secretary of the Society of American Florists at Boston :

I am very much obliged for your kind invitation, but still it is impossi-
ble to go, because your invitation is a little late.

Your most obedient,

Wend land.

ESTABLISHMENT FOR NEW AND RARE PLANTS.

Chelsea, London, S. W., July 26, 1893.

Wm. J. Stewart, Esq., Sec. So. of American Florists, Boston, Mass.:

Dear Sir, — I am much obliged for yours of the 10th, kindly inviting
me, on behalf of the American Florists to be present at their annual
meeting at St. Louis, but owing to my business arrangements, shall be
unable to have the pleasure of meeting the members of your Society.

With best thanks for the invitation, and wishing your Society every
prosperity, believe me,

Very truly yours,

William Bull.

ROYAL GARDENS.

Kew, July 27, 1893.
W. J. Stewart, Esq. , Secretary Society of American Florists :

Dear Sir, — We are very much obliged to your Society for the
courteous invitation to take part in the annual meeting on August
9-12, 1893.

We regret that personally we are compelled to decline the honor,
but doubtless the Curator, Mr. George Nicholson, who is at present on a
visit to the Chicago Exhibition, would be very glad to take part in your

gathering.

Very sincerely yours,

D. Morris, Assistant Director,

IV APPENDIX.

JARDIN ALPIX D'ACCLIMATATION.

Geneva, July 28, 1S93.
Wm. J. Stewart, Esq., Sec. So. of American Florists, Boston, Mass. :

Dear Sir, — I just received your most kindly invitation to the meet-
ing of American Florists which will be held in St. Louis on the 9, 10, 11
and 12 of August.

I am very sorry to say that I cannot be there as I am very busy
with a new book and also with a new Alpine Botanic Garden which we
are founding in the Alps.

Excuse me, and believe me faithfully yours,

II . Correvon.

CHATEAU DE BEL-AIR.

Olivet, (Loizet), 30 Juillet, 1893.
• Society of American i^7o/•/^7^■,,' jioston, Mass.:

Monsieur le secretaire, — J'ai bienrecu votre aimable invitation pour
le meeting que votre socidte' organise" a St. Louis cette anne'e et nul doute
que je n'y eusse rdpondu avec empressement, si l'dtat de ma santd me
l'eul permis.

Veuillez cependant me conside'rer comme de cocur avec vous.

Je profite de cette occasion pour vous prier de vouloir bien me faire
l'honneur de m'admettre dans votre socidte' comme membre d'honneur
ou correspondant. C'est un titre que j'ambitionne fort et je puis vous
assurer, en ^change, de tout mon denouement a vos inte'rets sur notre
continent.

Agrdez, monsieur le secretaire, avec mes regrets et mes remerci-
ments, l'assurance de mes sentiments les plus distingue's.

Georges Mantin.

museum d'histoire naturelle.

Paris, France, 30 Juillet, 1893.
Monsieur le President de la Societe de Floristes Americains :

Monsieur le president, — J'ai l'honneur de vous exprimer mes tres
vifs regrets de ne pouvoir arreter au meeting annuel qui se tiendra a
St. Louis, Mo., 9-12 aout, 1893.

Je suis extremement touche" de l'honneur qui m'est fait ainsi, que
d'etre invite" par votre dminente socidtd.

Je vous prie de vouloir bien lui transmettre mes plus respectueux
remerciments.

Veuillez agreer, monsieur le president, l'expression de mes senti-
ments de haute consideration.

Maxime Corny.
Prof.-administrateur au Museum d'Histoire naturelle.

APPENDIX. V

ROYA.L BOTANIC GARDEN.

Edinburgh, July 27, 1893.

Wii. J. Stewart, Esq., Secretary Society of American Florists :

Dear Sir, — I beg to acknowledge and to thank the Society of Amer-
ican Florists for the invitation so kindly extended to me to attend its
annual meeting in August, and I greatly regret that official engagements
here prevent me having the honor and pleasure of accepting the invita-
tion. I am, dear sir,

Sincerely,

Isaac Bayeey Balfour.

Vienna, July 29, 1893.
Wm. J. Stewart, Esq., Hon. Sec. to the So. of Amer. Florists, Boston :

My Dear Sir, — May it please you, my dear sir, to accept sincere
thanks, and to lay before his honor, the President, and the honorable
Council of the Society of American Florists, my respectful thanks for
the honors bestowed upon me, by extending to me a most cordial invita-
tion to visit St. Louis and take part in the sittings of the annual meeting
of the Society. Overburdened, mostly by an unforeseen work, resulting
from the retransport of my specimens of natural history and ethnology,
(which I have gathered during my last exploring trip into South and
S. Central Africa), from Prague to Vienna, I was obliged to recall the
promise given to the honorable council of the African Ethnological Con-
gress of the World's Congress Auxiliary of the World's Columbian Expo-
sition, to come to Chicago during the sittings of the Congress, and I
deplore most truly, that I am out of the same reason not able to take
part in the annual meeting of your noble Society. Having made up my
mind to visit the United States before my next departure for Africa, and
hoping to finish my present work in September, 1 intend to start for the
west early in October ; might be that I will have then an opportunity to
thank to you, my dear sir, and to his honor, the President, personally,
for the present honor of your cordial invitation.

May it please to accept from me, as a token of my great esteem
towards your noble Society, my book concerning my second exploring
trip into Africa and a guide through my last exhibition at Prague, both
publication for the library of your Society. I have sent these books with
this day's mail. The specimens, which I have brought home from my
last trip, were exhibited in Vienna and in Prague. It took four and
one-half years to set up and mount them, and when classified and
counted they numbered above thirteen thousand objects, showing divi-
sions : —

(1) of geography and meteorology, (observations made, diagrams,
charts, sketches, etc).

(2) of anthropology and ethnology.

(3) of commerce.

VI APPENDIX.

(4) cff natural history, (zoology, botany, mineralogy and palaeon-
tology) .

The section of botany showed the following sub-sections : —

(1). Seeds, fruit; bulbs.

(2). Several hundred of glass cylinders filled with trunks of genera
like hemitelia, encephalartos, protea, etc.

(3). Re-sections of wood from abroad, two hundred species, filling
four large glass cases.

(4). Collection of thorns on stems and trunks.

(5). Colection of Alices.

(<■>). Collection of fungi.

(7). Collection of alga? in glass cylinders in spirits of wine.

(8). Collection of alga> dried and pressed, mounted between two
panes of glass.

(9). Collection of plants in spirits of wine.
(10). Collection of large herbarium.

(11). Collection of one hundred and forty plants taken from the
latter and mounted and framed on passe partouts, showing typical
plants from the most important districts traversed during my last journey.

( 12). Living plants, grown up from section (1).

I deplore to say, that^ during the two expositions in Vienna and
Prague, alga' sw&-(8) were damaged by light, and plants sub- (12) to a
great number died from the effects of the transport to and from Prague ;
(among which Asclepiadese, Staphelise, Mimosaea?, liliums, gladioli,
amaryllis species and others.) These plants are not ornamental plants,
but of value to science ; mostly species known to science already, but
having never before been seen as living plants in Europe.

With my repeated thanks for the invitation sent, I remain, my dear
sir, your most obedient

Dr. Emil Holub.

[By Cable.]

American Florists, St. Louis, Mo.:

Hearty well-wishes to your gathering.

Wien, Aug. 11,1893.

Holub.

APPENDIX. Vll

REPORT OF EXHIBITION COMMITTEES.

COMMITTEE ON FLORISTS' SUPPLIES AND FANCY EARTHENWARE.

Your committee has examined the various exhibits and reports as
follows : —

To H. Bayersdorfer & Co., Philadelphia, Pa., a certificate of merit
for the best collection of florists' supplies.

To Ernest Kaufmann, Philadelphia, Pa., honorable mention for the
second best collection of florists' supplies.

To F. E. McAllister, New York, N. Y., honorable mention for
florists' supplies.

To Marschuetz & Co., Philadelphia, Pa., honorable mention for
florists' supplies.

To E. H. Hunt, Chicago, 111., honorable mention for florists'
supplies.

To C. A. Kuehn, St. Louis, Mo., honorable mention for display of
wire designs.

N. F. McCarthy & Co., Boston, Mass., are highly commended for
display of fancy pottery.

The Boston Letter Co., makes a nice display of block and script
letters.

[Signed] H. F. A. Lange.

Harry Tucker.
A. Wiegand.

COMMITTEE ON PLANTS.

Your committee makes the following recommendations : —
To H. A. Dreer, Philadelphia, a certificate of merit for exhibit of
plants.

To Charles D. Ball, Holmesburg, Pa., honorable mention for display

of plants.

To Pitcher & Manda, Short Hills, N. J., honorable mention for dis-
play of plants.

The respective exhibits of ^Y. K. Harris, Philadelphia, Pa. ; A.
Wiegaud, Indianapolis, Ind. ; J. G. Heinl, Jacksonville, 111., and W. J.
Hesser, Plattsmouth, Neb., are highly commended.

[Signed] W. S. Clark.

Geo. Nicholson.
K. Cameron.

VUl APPENDIX.

COMMITTEE ON CUT BLOOMS.

Your committee awards a certificate j of merit to Peter Herb, Mt.
Healthy, O., for a new carnation " Adalida Kresken."

To F. K. Pierson, Tarrytown, N. Y., honorable mention for four
vases of cannas.

To the Michel Plant and Bulb Co., St. Louis, Mo., honorable men-
tion for two vases of " Albino tuberose."

[Signed] W. A. Manda.

J. L. Dillon.

COMMITTEE ON BULBS AND SEEDS.

We, the judges, have examined the exhibits very carefully and
recommend the following awards : —

A certificate of merit to Pitcher & Manda, they having the largest
and best collection of bulbs. They also exhibited some palm seed.

Jno. Gardiner & Co., Philadelphia, Pa., also make a very fine exhibit
of bulbs and deserve honorable mention for same ; also mushroom
spawn.

H. A. Dreer, Philadelphia, Pa., has a good collection of fine bulbs,
and should be highly commended for same.

E. H. Hunt, Chicago, 111., has not as large a variety as the others,
but has some very fine calla bulbs, lilies, etc., on exhibition.

J. C. Vaughan has a good variety ; a very creditable display.

Michel Seed Co., also C. H. Joosten have a small collection.

[Signed] Wm. H. Siebrecht.

John Westcott.
Fred. Kanst.

committee on greenhouse appliances and flower pots.

The committee reports as follows : —

Hippard's standard ventilator. — E. Hippard, Youngstown, Ohio. A
very strong and powerful machine, more rapid in operation than the
ordinary " worm and screw " lifting apparatus now in general use. Certi-
ficate of merit.

Evans challenge ventilator. — Quaker City Machine Co., Richmond,
Indiana. The most rapid of all devices, and but for possibility of break-
ing of chain would in our opinion be the best of all. Honorable mention.

Carmody's " New Departure " ventilator. — J. D. Carmody, Evans-
ville, Ind.

Automatic ventilator. — Chadborn -Kennedy Manufacturing Co.
Fishkill-on-Hudson, N. Y. A very ingenious and skillfully constructed
apparatus that has a wide field of usefulness if it can be made to work
satisfactorily under varying conditions of weather ; at present it is in an

APPENDIX. IX

experimental stage, and while it may never be used for all classes of
houses, certainly will be invaluable in many cases. Its work will be
watched with intense interest by the trade ; there is nothing novel in the
principle applied which is a very sensitive thermostat, but is ingenious
in its application.

Flowerpots. — Detroit Pottery Co., Detroit, Mich. This exhibit
shows a modification in form of the standard pot as now made, which in
the opinion of the committee is an improvement that is of value and
should be adopted by all other manufacturers. The rim being of much
less width allowing nearly twice as many pots to be stood in the same
space, a consideration of importance. Honorable mention.

Flower Pots. — Whilldin Pottery Co., Philadelphia, Pa. Highly
commended.

Lockland Lumber Co., Lockland, Ohio, show manufactured cypress
lumber for all parts of greenhouse structures ready to put in place. Cer-
tificate of merit. The same firm exhibits a model greenhouse roof
adapted for hot-bed glass, without use of putty.

Thompson, Anderson & Kennedy, St. Louis, Mo., show section of
rose house of most approved modern construction. Certificate of merit.

[Signed] F. R. Pierson.

J. T. Anthony.
Frank McMahon.

COMMITTEE ON MISCELLANEOUS EXHIBITS.

The committee on miscellaneous exhibits beg to submit the follow-
ing report : —

E. H. Hunt, Chicago, 111., makes a display of cutlery, pot labels,
syringes aud horticultural hardware.

M. A. Hunt, Terre Haute, Ind.,a valuable book on growing of cut
flowers and greenhouse construction.

John Gardiner & Co., Philadelphia, Pa., hot-bed thermometers and
book on growing of mushrooms.

Daniel B. Long, Buffalo, N. Y., fine large display of floral photo-
graphs.

C. H. Joosten, Hew York, fostite fungicide and appliances for dis-
tributing same.

J. J. Pollexfen, Baltimore, Md., lemon oil insecticide.

H. A. Dreer, Philadelphia, Pa., cutlery, pot labels and green-
house thermometers.

Edwards & Docker, Philadelphia, Pa., waterproof cut flower
boxes that your committee consider worthy of a certificate of merit.

Louisville Spirit Cured Tobacco Co., Louisville, Ky., extract of
tobacco.

J. C. Meyer & Co., Boston, Mass., silkaline for smilax, etc.

[Signed] John Burton.

Paul Dailledouze.
Albert M. Herr.

X APPENDIX.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS REGISTERED WITH THE CHRYSANTHEMUM SOCIETY
OF AMERICA DURING THE AUTUMN OF 1892 AND SPRING OF 1893.

By Nathan Smith & Sou, Adrian, Mich. — Niveus, Mrs. M. W. Red-
field, Redondo, Ermenilda, Alba Venus, Miles A. Wheeler, Dr. H. D.
Hull, Parthenia, Ingomar, J. A. Pettigrew, Expansus, Insoletus, Uncle
John.

By E. G. Hill & Co., Richmond, Indiana. — A. T. Ewing, Amber
Queen, Anna Woods, George R. Gauge, Jennie Williams, Joey Hill,
Judge Hoitt, Miss Lydia Hopkins, Maud Dean, Mrs. J. W. Crouch, Pres-
ident Wm. R. Smith, Robert Mclnnes, W. G. Newett, W. N. Rudd and
Mrs. E. G. Hill.

By Thomas H. Spaulding, Orange, N. J. — A. A. Sturges, American
Flag, Ada Strickland, Bryden, Jr., Emily Ladenburg, Miss M. Simpkins,
Mrs. Dudley C. Hall, Martha Duryea, M. B. Spaulding, Eiderdown, Mrs.
J. M. Schley. Snowflake, Wyndmoor, Walter Hunnewell.

By Herbert J. Tong, Erie, Pa. — Mrs. C. H. Strong, Daybreak,
Wm. Brewster, Pink Coral, Dr. B. D. Schlandesker, Cascade, Lizzie
Toug, Charlotte Russe, Tong, Jr., Rayon d'Or, Emma Laura, War Paint,
Silver Cloud.

By J. C. Vaughan, Chicago, 111. — E. R. Gallup, Mrs. C. Knox.

By George W. Miller, Chicago, 111. — Miss Margaret Miller, Wakenda,
Argenta.

By T. D. Hatfield, Wellesley, Mass. — Lady Playfair, Albion, Excel-
sior, Col. Robert G. Ingersoll, Westward Ho.

By Henry G. Standen, Haverford College, Mont. Co., Pa. — Miss
Mary E. Simmons, Henry F. Michell, Mrs. Howard Roberts, Mrs. B. F.
Cole, Queen Isabella, Mrs. Dupuy De Lome, Mr. Wm. H. Joyce.

By John McCleary, Germantown, Pa. — Mrs. R. J. C. Walker.

By Hugh Graham, Philadelphia, Pa. — Mrs. Craig-Lippincott,
Josephine, Philadelphia, Lady Somerset, Frances B. Willard, Mars,
Mrs. J. R. Jones, Mrs. R. C. Ogden, Rev. J. C. Hanna, Mrs. J. D. Eisele.

By F. S. Walz, Cummingville, Cincinnati, O. — Comrade, Cardinal,
H. L. Sunderbruch, Lena Walz, Miss Bettie Fleischman, Perle, Ruby,
Robert J. Murphey, The Queen, Theodore Bock, William Bolia, iEtna.
(The name of Vesuvius was also sent in but as this name had been
adopted by an English firm it was changed to ./Etna.)

By Fred. Dorner, Lafayette, Indiana. — Arminda, Mrs. Charles Du-
hume, Miss Sarah Hill. Autumn Queen was also sent in for registration
by Mr. Dorner, but as that name has been in use by at least two others
it has been changed to Autumn Glow.

By David Cliffe, Germantown, Philadelphia, Pa. — J. H. Cliffe.
This variety was changed from Magnet which is in the list of 1890.

By H.W. Rieman, Indianapolis, Indiana. — Bynum Schiltges, Ernest
Rieman, Irma.

By Peter Henderson & Co. , New York. — Golden Wedding. (This is

APPENDIX. XI

said to be synonymous with Mrs. Wm. Tevis sent out by J. H. Sievers,
San Francisco, Cal., Spring 1890.)

By Mrs. E. Suder, Toledo, Ohio. — Lisbeth.

By William Tricker, Dongan Hills, Staten Island, 1ST. Y.— Thos. H.
Brown, Farview, Flossie, Judge Addison Brown, Judge Chas. L. Bene-
dict.

By John N. May, Summit, N. J. — Creole, Falstaff, Fascination,
Gloriana, Illumination, Jeanette, Mrs. Frances Thorley, Miss Sue T.
Price, Mr. Tinkel, Summit, Temptation, Truth, Calendula, Old Home-
stead, Portia, Sans Peur, Wang, White Gem, William Simpson. (The
last named variety was exhibited under the name of Pink Pearl, in
November, 1892, at Philadelphia, but as that name is already in use,
Mr. May named it as stated.)

By Pitcher & Manda, Short Hills, N. J. — Mrs. F. L. Ames, Mrs.
Leslie Ward, Mrs. Bayard Cutting, Mrs. Walter Cutting, Mrs. W. P.
Henszey, Mrs. W. C. Van Horn, Whitestone, Mrs. Henry Graves, Mrs.
J. T. Anthony, Mrs. Catherine Bell Lewis, Mrs. James P. Closson, Miss
Baldwin, Imperial Castle, Imperial Favorite, Master of the Garden,
Louis Menand, W J. Palmer, Mr. Ed. G. Nihlein, John White, Lady
Florence, La France, Mr. Joseph Clark, Burnham Squier, Gertie, Mrs.
Wm. Trelease.

By Mr. J. Condon, Brooklyn, N. Y. — Ruth Cleveland. (Unfortu-
nately there are two varieties before the public by the name of Ruth
Cleveland. Mr. T. II. Spaulding registered that name a day or so after
it was announced through the public press that the first born of Presi-
dent and Mrs. Cleveland had been named Ruth.) Mr. Condon claims
the name for his chrysanthemum because he has an autograph letter
from President Cleveland sanctioning that name for his variety. (This
is a question for the Executive Committee to decide.) The Jack, Van
Nostrand, Henry Ward Beecher, Gladys Howell, Theodosia, Margery
Ferguson, Chauncey M.Depew, Our Mary, The Visitor, Katherine Schans,
Mrs. Hugh McLaughlin, Laura Maggie Rutherford, Schsglelicke, Ella
Belzer, Offmaun, Sister Kate, The Clara, Billy Florence, Harry L. Luck-
enbach, Lillie M. Thomas, Mabel Alida, David A. Boody, Marion, Mrs.
R. V. Harnett, James Willie McBarron, Lizzie Ross McKee, Nellie
Foster Condon, Eleanor Elgar, Thos. S. Dakin, Nellie Nicoll, Bessie
Mayhew, Sara, Christina Hay ward, Amita Carlotta, Cora, James Gordon
Bennett, Bessie Greenman.

By John Thrope.— Mrs. Wm. R. Smith.

LIST OF MEMBERS FOR 1893-94.

ALABAMA.

Worl, L. P., Birmingham. |

ARKANSAS.
Bowen, Wm. M., Box 10, Newport. |

CALIFORNIA.

James B. Kidd, San Francisco, Vice- Preside nt.

Berger, Mrs. H.'H., San Francisco.
Clack, Sidney, Del Monte Gardens,

Monterey.
Kidd, James B., Sherwood Hall

Nurseries, San Francisco.

Sievers, J. H., 25 Post St., San
Francisco.

Smith, E. E., 321 Market st., San
Francisco.

Sproule, Jas., Sherwood Hall Nur-
series, San Francisco.

COLORADO.

Clarke, William, 31S E. Platte ave.,
Colorado Springs.

CONNECTICUT.

J. N. Champion, New Haven, Vice-President.

Atwood, Geo. W., 250 Smith st.,

Hartford.
Austin, Ed., Suffleld.
Bindloss, T. Palmer, New London.
Champion, J. N., New Haven.
Clark, Mrs. M. G, Willimantic.
Coombs, John, 118 Benton st.,

Hartford .
Dallas, A., 32 Union st., Waterbury.
Duncan. J. W., New London, Box

817.
Flynn, Chas. E., Meriden.
Geduldig, G., Norwich.
Hill, Morris A., Ansonia.
Horan, James, Bridgeport.
Ives, J. H., Danbury.
Lines, C. P., 23 Beers st., New

Haven.

Loveless, Alfred J., Box 12,

Wethers field.
Marchand, P., So. Manchester.
Pendleton, W. E., New London.
Keck, John, Bridgeport.
Relyea, Wm. H., New Britain.
Rowden, Geo. H., Wallingford.
Sanford, C. J., Unionville.
Smith, Jos. F., 62 Main st., Norwich.
Snow, W. J., Waterbur)'.
Spalding, John, New Londou.
Spear, D. A., Asylum St., Hartford
Wiard, F. S., Yalesville.
Whiting, A., Farmington ave.,

Hartford.
Woodley, Wm. , Meriden.

DELAWARE.

Baylis, L. E., 9th ward, Wilmington.
Brinton, Chas. E., Wilmington.

Grant, Henry, Penna. ave., Wil-
mington.
Hannam, Henry, Wilmington.

XIV

APPENDIX.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.

Wm. F. Gude, Washington, Vice-President.

Bissett, Peter, Twin Oaks, W.
Washington.

Brown, Geo. H., 1312 S St., Wash-
ington.

Brunger, C. A., Industrial School,
Georgetown.

Byrnes, E.M., Propagating Gardens,
Washington.

Clark, Jas., Bladensburg Road,
Washington.

Clark, W. S., Bladensburg road,
Washington.

Cooke, Geo. H., 14th and G sts.,
Washington.

Durfee, Beuj., Washington.

Eaton, A. B., 1603 7th St., N. W.,
Washington.

Freeman, J.R., 612 13th St., Wash-
ington.

Gauges, Philip, Botanic Garden,
Washington.

Gude, Adolphus, 1224 F St., Wash-
ington.

Gude, Wm. F., 1224 F St., Washing-
ton.

Hale, C. F., 719 14th st., Washing-
ton.

Hitz, John, 917 R st., N. W. , Wash-
ington.

Ley, John H., Anacostia, Washing-
ton.

Mayne, John M., Soldier's Home,
Washington.

Oliver, G. W., Botanic Garden,
Washington.

Putnam, W. H., 1710 Pennsylvania
ave., Washington.

Reynolds, C. Leslie, Botanic Garden
Washington.

Saul, John, 621 7th St., N. W.,
Washington.

Shellhorn, Christian, 441 Centre
Market, Washington.

Small, Archie, Washington.

Smith, W. R., Botanic Garden,
Washington.

Studer, N., Washington.

Watt. James A., 1625 Madison St.,
N. W., Washington.

Brooks, Ada J., Sorrento.
Brooks, AnnaM., Sorrento.

FLORIDA.

Lewis, W. F., Pensacola.

GEORGIA.

Guien, A., 1483 Broad st., Augusta.
Oelschig, A. C, Savannah.

Plumb, William, Atlanta.
Wachendorf, Ed., Atlanta.

ILLINOIS.

P. J. Hauswirtii, Chicago, and F. J. Heinl, Jacksonville, Vice-Presidents.

Allen, Geo. F., 2205 Michigan ave.,

Chicago.
Ammann, J. F., Edwardsville.
Anthony, J. T., 2205 Michigan ave.,

Chicago.
Bailer, F. A., Bloomington.
Buckbee, H. W., Rockford.
Buettner, Emil, Park Ridge.
Chadwick, W. H., 402 Rialto,

Chicago.
Cole. J. M., Peoria.
Corbrey.T. J., 45 Lake St., Chicago.
Corten, Tbeo., Wright's Grove,

Cook Co.
Deamud, J. B., 45 Lake st., Chicago.
Eddy, Burt, 146 W. Washington

st., Chicago.
Fehr, A. G., Belleville.
Forster, John S., Evanston, Cook

County.

Franks, Thomas, Champaign.
Gallagher, M. F., 163 Wabash ave.,

Chicago.
Gardner, Mrs. S. P., Hinsdale.
Gentemann, C. F. W., Quincy.
Grant, G. L., 322 Dearborn st.,

Chicago.
Grossart, G. W., Belleville.
Guy, E. W., Belleville.
Halsted, A. S., Belleville.
Hartwig, Charles, 417 Woodside

ave., Lake View.
Hauswirth, P. J., 318 Wabash ave.,

Chicago.
Hay, Chas. E., Springfield.
Heinl, Jos., Jacksonville.
Heinl, F. J., Jacksonville.
Heller, J. A., Quincy.
Hunt, E. H. , 79 Lake st., Chicago.
Kanst, Fred. , South Park, Chicago.

APPENDIX.

XV

ILLINOIS — Continued.

Kay, John C, Rock Island.

Kennicott, F., 34 Randolph st.,
Chicago.

Kidwell, J. F., Chicago.

Killen, J. E., Irving Park, Chicago.

King, A. G., 79 Dearborn st.,
Chicago.

King, F. j., Ottawa.

Klehm, Geo., Arlington Heights.

Lane, John, 4801 Lake ave., Chicago.

Lau, Paul F., River Grove.

Maas, Hubert, 2205 Michigan ave.,
Chicago.

McAdaras, Andrew, Hyde Park.

Miller, Geo. W., 1748 No. Halsted
st., Chicago.

Moninger, John C, 297-305 Haw-
thorne ave., Chicago.

Murray, J. C. , Peoria.

Phelps, H. L., Springfield.

Raynolds, J. D., Riverside.

Reinberg, P., Sumrnerdale, Chicago.

Ringier, Arnold, 6 and 8 No. Clark
st., Chicago.

Rockafeller. Mrs. M. H.. May wood.

Smyth, W. J., 270 31st St., Chicago.

Strombach, C., Lincoln Park, Chi-
cago.

Sundmacher, W. H., Chicago.

Swayue, H. S., Bloomington.

Thorpe, John, Chicago.

Vaughan, J. C, 88 State St., Chi-
cago.

Walcott, S. A., Batavia.

Walther, Geo., 6428 Sherman St.,
Chicago.

Washburn, Andrew, Bloomington.

Weinhoeber, E., 417 Elm st., Chi-
cago

Wilson, Jas. S., care J. C. Vaughan,
Cnicago.

Zender, Adam, High Ridge, Chicago.

INDIANA.

John Hartje, Indianapolis, Vice-President.

Balmer, J. A., Vincennes.

Bertermann, John, Indianapolis.

Bertermann, William G., Indian-
apolis.

Bissel, E. C, Richmond.

Carmodv, J- D., Evansville.

Coles, W. W., Kokomo.

Doruer, Fred., Lafayette.

Dorner, Fred, Jr., Lafayette.

Evans, J. A., Richmond.

Flick, Miss, 132 Thompson ave.,
Fort Wayne.

Gause, G. R., E. Main st., Richmond.
Hartje, John, 1G37 N. Illinois St.,

Indianapolis.
Heinl, John J., Terre Haute.
Hill, E. Gurney, Richmond.
Hunt, C. A., Terre Haute.
Hunt, M. A., Terre Haute.
Reiman, H. W., Indianapolis.
Stuart, J. S., Anderson.
Wade, John H., Evansville.
Wiegaud, A., 7th and Illinois sts.,

Indianapolis.

IOWA.

F. G. Bahr, Davenport, Vice-President.

Barr, F. D., Davenport.
Bahr, F. G., Davenport.
Bather, John R., Clinton.
Bills, F. L., Davenport.
Bills, Mrs. F. L., Davenport.
Dannache, Chas., Davenport.
Greene, W., Box 58, Davenport.
Harkett, W. A., Dubuque.
Kramer, Judson A., Marion.

Kranz, Conrad, Muscatine.

Laisle, Christ, Keokuk.

Morris, W. L., 2650 Cottage Grove

ave., Des Moines.
Rennison, J. C, Sioux City.
Rennison, W. S., Sioux City.
Temple, J. T., Davenport.
Wilcox, J. F., Council Bluffs.

Coventry, M. J., Fort Scott.
Mueller, Chas. P., Wichita.

KANSAS.

Patterson, Mrs. A. S., 509 South

Eddy st., Fort Scott.
Whitcomb, A., Lawrence.

XVI

APPENDIX.

KENTUCKY.

Charles Rayner, Anchorage, Vice-President.

Hemingray, R. P., Louisville.
Hobbs, T. C., Anchorage.
Morat, Frank, Jr., Louisville.
Nanz, C. G., Owensboro.
Neuner, Charles, Louisville.
Power, E., Frankfort.
Eayner, Charles, Anchorage.

Eeimers, C. W., 329 4th st., Louis-
ville.

Eeimers, E. G., Baxter ave., Louis-
ville.

Schultz, Jacob, 1325 E. Broadway,
Louisville.

LOUISIANA.

Charles Eble, New Orleans, Vice-President.

Eble, Charles, New Orleans.
Eblen, John, Hurst St.,

Orleans.
Maitre, R., New Orleans.

New

Vignez, L., 108 White St., New

Orleans.
Virgin, Uriah J., New Orleans.

MAINE.
Joseph A. Dirwangek, Portland, Vice-President.

Dirwanger, Joseph A., Portland.
Goddard, Edw. II., Woodfords.
Mahoney, George L., Saco.
Morton, W. E.," Portland.

Moses, F. H., Bucksport.
Roak, George M., Auburn.
Wallace, Alexander, 13G Vaughan
st., Portland.

MARYLAND.
William B. McRoberts, Jr., Govanstown, Vice-President.

Bester, Henry A., Ilagerstown.

Bester, William, 205 So. Potomac
st., Hagerstown.

Binder, P., Govanstown.

Black, A. L., Baltimore.

Burger, Fred. G., 1128 Greenmount
ave., Baltimore.

Cook, John, 318 North Charles St.,
Baltimore.

Dayhoff, Mrs. J. W., 43 E. North
St., Hagerstown.

Donn, John, 1st Toll gate, Harford
road, Baltimore.

Eckhardt, Louis, Mt. Washington.

Eckhardt, Theo., Baltimore.

Fabre, Miss Ella, Baltimore.

Fraser, Wm., 1742 Gay st., Balti-
more.

Fredericks, Henry, Baltimore.

Hahn, E.,1345 So. Charles St., Balti-
more.

Halliday, Robert J., Baltimore.

Halliday, Robt., Jr., HE. Baltimore
st., Baltimore.

Hantske, M. A., Hampden, Balti-
more.

Hermann, Charles, Frederick.

Hess, C, 329 Friendship ave., Balti-
more.

Hoffman, C. C. , 2229 Madison ave.,
Baltimore.

Klein, G. W., 947 Madison ave.,
Baltimore.

Kress, E., 2506 North ave., Balti-
more.

LeBrun, G. H., 1240 Donald st.,
Baltimore.

Lehr, H. M., Brooklyn.

Lehr, Wm. G., Brooklyn.

McRoberts, William B., Jr., Govans-
town.

Millman, F. X., Green st. station,
Cumberland.

Moss, Isaac H., Govanstown.

Patterson, Thos. H., Waverley.

Rodgers, Jas. G., Jr., Govanstown.

Seidewitz, E. A., Annapolis.

Smith, G. V., 1101 E. Baltimore st.,
Baltimore.

Thomas, Mary J., 329 No. Charles
St., Baltimore.

Wagner, C. M., Ryder.

Wagner, John L., Mt. Washington.

Waither, Hugo, Pimlico ave., Balti-
more.

Wiedey, John, Mt. Washington.

APPENDIX.

XV 11

M A.SS ACHUSETTS.
J. W. Manning, Jr., Reading, and Alexander Montgomery, Natick,

Vice-Presidents.

Adams, C. Thompson, West Med-
way.

Allan, David, Cliftondale.

Anderson, George M., Milton.

Ball, Peter, Maiden.

Barker, J. G., Jamaica Plain.

Barker, M., Cambridge.

Beals, E. B., Greenfield.

Becker, Frank, Cambridge.

Berry, R. E., 159 E. River St., Hyde
Park.

Blair, Robert, Dorchester.

Bock, W. A., North Cambridge.

Bowditch, A. C, 32 Webster ave.,
Somerville.

Brague, L. B., Hinsdale.

Breed, E. W., Clinton.

Cameron, Robt., Botanic Garden,
Cambridge.

Clapp, E. B., 175 Boston st., Dor-
chester.

Coleman, S. J., Dorchester.

Comley, James, Lexington.

Cook, H. A., Shrewsbury.

Costello, M. J., Brighton.

Cotter, Lawrence, Dorchester.

Cox, Thomas A., Olney St., Dor-
chester.

Dawson, Jackson, Jamaica Plain.

Doyle, W. E., 43 Tremont St.,
Boston.

Edgar, William, Waverly.

Elliott, W. H., Brighton.

English, E. S., 320 Elm st., North-
ampton.

Ewell, Warren, 382 Wayland st.,
Roxbury.

Farquhar, Robt., 19 South Market
St., Boston.

Fewkes, A. H., Newton Highlands.

Fife, L. S., Shelburne Falls.

Finaghty, Martin, Lenox.

Fisher, D., Montvale.

Fisher, Sewall, Framingham.

Forbes, A. B., Byfield.

Foster, F. W., John Hancock Build-
ing, Boston.
Fuller, J., Leominster.
Gale, W. F., Springfield.
Gifford, Noah, New Bedford.
Goodell, L. W., D wight.
Gordon, George, Beverly.
Greaves, Thomas, North Easton.
Guerineau, Louis, 140 Garden st.,

Cambridge.
Guinivan, D. H.. P. O. Box 45,
Beverly.

Harris, F. L., Wellesley.
Hews, A. H., North Cambridge.
Hudson, Thomas, Northampton.
Junkins, Geo. S., Lawrence.
Kingman, M. B., Amherst.
Knapp, W. H., Newtonville.
Knight, C. W., Lenox.
Lange, H. F. A.. Worcester.
Lombard, Alfred W., Wayland.
Lombard, R. T., Wayland.
Mann, Mary S., Florence.
Martin, Wm. J., Milton
Marshall, G. W., Chelsea.
Manning, J. W., Jr., Reading.
Manning, W. H., Brookline.
Mathieson, Fred R., Waltham.
McCarthy, N. F., 1 Music Hall pi.,

Boston.
McCarthy, T. F., 7 Province ct.,

Boston.
Meyer, J. C., 289 Devonshire st.,
Boston.

Miller, William, West Lynn.

Molloy, William F., Wellesley.
Montgomery, Alexander, Natick.
Montgomery, Alexander W., Jr.,
Natick.

Montgomery, John, Wellesley.

Morton, James H, Mattapan.

Murdoch, H. L., West Gardner.

Newman, J. R., Winchester.

Nicholson, William, Framingham.

Norton, M. H., Hotel Berkeley,
Boston.

Norton, P., Dorchester.

O'Hara, Eugene, Webster.

Olden, J. B., 13 Green st., Boston.

Oliver, John, Lowell.

Parker, Geo. L., Dorchester.

Pasell, F. H., New Bedford.

Patten, Marcellus A., Lowell.

Pierce, William, New Bedford.

Raddin, E. W., 9 Forest st., No.
Cambridge.

Robinson, Wm., North Easton.

Rose, Richard R., Jamaica Plain.

Seaverns, Herbert, Box 63, Auburn-
dale.

Shaw, E. D., Holyoke.

Sheppard, E., Lowell.

Spooner, W. H., Jamaica Plain.

Sprague, F. L., Hingham Centre.

Stevens. Abel, Wellesley.

Stewart, William J., 67 Bromfield
St., Boston.

Tailby, Joseph, Wellesley.

Tailby, W., Wellesley.

XV111

APPENDIX.

MASSACHUSETTS — Continued.

Tucker, Harry A., Ware.
Walsh, John, Melrose Highlands.
Warburton, C, Fall River.
Welch, D., 2 Beacon St., Boston.
Welch, P., 2 Beacon St., Boston.
Wheeler, L. B., Berlin.
Wheeler, W. L., Berlin.
White, John, Pittsfield.

Whitney, Chas. A., Upton, Wor-
cester Co.
Wight, L., Wellesley Hills.
Wood, E. A., West Newton.
Wood, E. M., Natick.
Wood, Harvey C, West Newton.
Woodman, E. E., Danvers.
Young, A. W., So. Hingham.
Zirngiebel, D., Needham.

MICHIGAN.
Stephen Taplin, Detroit, Vice-President.

Balsley, Harry, Detroit.

Boehme, A., 45 Fountain St., Battle

Creek.
Breitmeyer, J., Detroit.
Hancock, James G., Grand Haven.
Jones, D. C, 220 Woodward ave.,

Detroit.

Knoch, Gus.,Woodmere, Wayne Co.
Smith, Elmer D., Adrian.
Smith, Henry, Grand Rapids.
Taepke, G. EL, 450 Elmwood ave.,

Detroit.
Taplin, Stephen, 030 Fort St.,

Detroit.

MINNESOTA.
Louis Edlefsen, St. Paul, Vice-President.

Mendenhall, Mrs. Abbie G., Minne-
apolis.

Mendenhall, R. J., Minneapolis.

Nagel, E., 188 West Lake St.

Swanson, A. S., St. Paul.

Vibberts, W. A., care of R. J.
.Mendenhall, Minneapolis.

Wunder, John, Winona.

Bun.lc A. II., 26 West 6th St., St.

Paul.
Busch, Fred., Richfield.
Edlefsen, Louis, Douglass and Lis-

ton sts., St. Paul.
Malmquist, G., 24th st. and Stevens

ave., Minneapolis.
May. L. L., St. Paul.

MISSOURI.

F. C. Weber, St. Louis, Vice-President.

Beneke, J. J., 1220 Olive St., St.

Louis.
Beyer, Robt., 3610 So. Grand ave.,

St. Louis.
Bleeckert, C. J., 4426 Labadie ave.,

St. Louis.
Bruenig, F., 1945 Gravois ave., St.

Louis.
Brown, D. S., 2212 Dekalb St., St.

Louis.
Brown, R. S., P. O. Box 99, Kansas

City.
Chandler, H. W., Jr.. 717 Olive st.

St. Louis.
Connon, Charles, 2742 Olive st.,

St. Louis.
Ellison, W., 1402 Pine st., St. Louis.
Fillmore, F. J., South St. Louis.
Frow, Rich'd, 4206 Natural Bridge

road, St. Louis.
Jablonsky, A., Wellston.
Jannopoulo, Demetrius, St. Louis.
Jordan, J. M., 706 Olive St., St.

Louis.

Juengel, Chas. A., 1841 So. Linn

st., St. Louis.
Keffer, C. A., Columbia.
Kellogg, Geo. M., Pleasant Hill.
Kloekenkemper, Theo., 2551 Sulli-
van ave., St. Louis.
Koenig, J., 6471 Florissant ave.,

St. Louis.
Kuehn, C. A., 1122 Pine st., St.

Louis.
Michel, E. H., Magnolia and Tower

Grove ave., St. Louis.
Mische, Emil, Mo. Botanic Garden,

St. Louis.
Neilson, Hans, St. Joseph.
Ostertag, F. W., St. Louis.
Ostertag, Miss Mary, 311 Grand St.,

St. Louis.
Pape, Wm., 3307 Penna. ave., St.

Louis.
Quiun, Edward, Springfield.
Rau, R. G., St. Joseph.
Sanders, C, 5600 Delmar ave., St.

Louis.

APPENDIX.

XIX

MISSOURI — Continued.

Schray, Emile, 4101 Penna. ave.,

St. Louis.
Schray, William, 4101 Penna. ave.,

St. Louis.
Stuppy, L. J., St. Joseph.
Tesson, R. F., West Forest Park,

St. Louis.
Trelease, Prof. Wm., Missouri

Botanic Garden, St. Louis.
Trillow, Wm., Clayton.

Waldbart, Alexander, 353S Chest-
nut St., St. Louis.

Weber, F. C, 3134 Olive St., St.
Louis.

Wors, C. W., 313 No. Leffingwell
ave., St. Louis.

Young, Henry, 1406 Olive st., St,
Louis.

Young, John, 1406 Olive St., St.
Louis.

NEBRASKA.

Donaghue, A., 16th and Douglas
sts., Omaha.

Hesser, W. J., Plattsmouth.
Parker, T. N., Omaha.

NEW HAMPSHIRE.
C. W. Hoitt, Nashua, Vice-President.

Benedict, G. J., Concord.
Burlingame, William, Exeter.
Buxton, Geo. E., 70 Vine St.,

Nashua.
Ellis, Marcus, Keene.

Hoitt, C. W., Nashua.

Paterson, Robert, care Hon. Frank

Jones, Portsmouth.
Stacy, A. H., Portsmouth.

NEW JERSEY.

Joseph Manda, Jr., Short Hills, and Frank McMahon, Sea Bright, Vice-
Presidents.

Asmus, Ernst, West Hoboken.

Asmus, Ernst A., Short Hills.

Asmus, Rudolph, New Durham.

Atkins, F. L., Short Hills.

Barkham, William F., Saddle River.

Baur, Alfred, West Hoboken.

Bishop, William R , Burlington.

Bonu, F., Weehawken

Bridgeman, Thomas, Ramsey's

Chitty, H. E., Paterson

Clucas, R. W., Short Hills.

Coddington, Lyman B,, New Provi-
dence.

Davis, J. A., Jersey City.

Dressel, F., Weehawken.

Driscol, James, 254 Main ave.,
Passaic.

Du Rie, W. B., Rah way.

Edwards, Theo. E., Bridgton.

Eisele, W. G., Cedar ave., Long
Branch.

Esler, Andrew, Saddle River.

Esler, John G., Saddle River.

Goble, F. C, Verona.

Grey, R. M., Orange.

Green, J. S., Morristown, Morris
County.

Holton, Thos. T., Morristbwn.

Jeunemann, Henry, Short Hills.

Jones, Thomas, Short Hills.

Lager, John, Short Hills.

Leuly, E., West Hoboken.

Macbean, C. A., Lake wood.

M.irkay, W. M., 66 James
Newark.

Macrorie, D., Short Hill-.

Manda, Joseph, Jr., Short Hills.

Manda. W. A., Short Hills.

May, J. N., Sammit.

McArthur, Robert, 186 Main St.,
( ) range.

McDonald, Peter, Summit.

McGowan, John, Orange.

McMahon, Frank, Sea Bright.

Minder, P., Jr., 488 South Orange
ave., Newark.

Moore, Frank L., Chatham.

Murray, F. F., Atco.

Nash, S. C, Clifton, Passaic Co.

O'Mara, P. J., Grand st., Jersey
City.

Roehrs, Julius, Carlton Hill.

Saling, William, Rah way.

Steinhoff, Herman C, West Ho-
boken.

Stollery, H. A., Summit.

Towell, Joseph H., Paterson.

Troy, J. H., Short Hills.

Turnley, C. William, Haddonfleld.

Van Reyper, E. J., Belleville.

Wentink, Frank, Passaic.

Wight, W. P., Madison.

XX

APPENDIX.

NEW YORK.

Samuel Goldring, Albany, and W. H. Siebrecht, Astoria, Vice-Presidents.

Florey, James, Medina.

Foley, J. J., 226 Bowery, New

York.
Forsterinan, I., Newtown, Long

Island.
Frost, Adolph, 97, 99 and 101

Tompkins st., Cortland.
Gibbons, H. W., 233 Mercer st.,

New York.
Gindra, David, Poughkeopsie.
Goldring, Frederick, Albany.
Goldring, Samuel, UN. Pearl St.,

Albany.
Griflln, Thos-., Westbury Sta., L. I.
Griffin, W. A., Ellicott P. 0., Erie

County.
Grupe, J. W. H., Schenectady.
Haines, E. C, Bedford station.
Hall, W. W.. 786 5th ave., New

York.
Hammond, Benjamin, Fishkill.
Henderson, Alfred, 35 and 37 Cort-

landt st., New York.
Henderson, Charles, 35 and 37 Cort-

landt st., New York.
Hendrick, James, Albany.
Heushaw, Samuel, W. New Rrigh-

ton, S. [sland.
Hermann, A., 415 East 34th st.,

New York.
Hillinan, G. W., Jr., Flushing.
Hoffman, E. M., Elmira.
Hollev, E., Hudson.
Horaii, E. C, 34 West 29th st.,

New York.
Hulsebosch, A., P. O. Box 3118,

New York.
Ingram, David, Astoria.
Jansen, Ed.. 124 West 19th St.,

New York.
Johnson, Mrs. Fred. H., Olean.
Joosten, C. H., 3 Coenties Slip,

New York.
Katoll. Fred., 121 Linwood ave.,

Buffalo.
Katoll, F., Jr., Buffalo.
Keller, Fred., Bay Ridge.
Keller, J. M., Bay Ridge.
Keller, John B. , Rochester.
Keppler, M., 15 John st., New York.
Koffman, E., Walden, Orange Co.
Kretschmar, J. F., Flatbush.
Krick, W. C, 1287 Broadway,

Brooklyn.
Krombach, Charles, 181 25th st.,

Brooklyn.

Allen, C. H., Floral Park.
Allen, C. L., Garden City.
Allen, R. W., Hudson.
Armitage, Chas., 233 Mercer st.,

New York.
Bailey, L. H., Ithaca.
Baker, C. F., Utica.
Barry, William C., Rochester.
Benedict, G. H., Yorkville.
Bennett, George E., Flatbush.
Herrmann, G., Lincoln road, Flat-
bush.
Boettger, R. E., Eggertsville.
Bonfleld, AY alter. Little Falls.
Burns, Alexander S., 49 W. 28 st.

New York.
Bussard, Henri, i'is Now Main St.,

Yonkers.
Butler, Chris., Bayside.
Carman, R. W., Flushing.
Childs, J. Lewis, Floral Park.
Clark, J. T., 61 Ann st., New York.
Cook, C. R.. Fishkill Landing.
Cottam, George T. N., 120 Uroad-

way, New York.
Creighton, George, Hooker ave.,

Poughkeepsie.
*Daacke, H. A., 410 W. 14th St.,

New York
Dailledouze, Eugene, Flatbush.
Dailledouze, Henry, Flatbush.
Dailledouze, Paul F., Flatbush.
Davison, W. R., Box 505, Nyack.
Dean, James, Bay Rid.^e.
De La Marc, A. T., 170 Fulton St.,

New York.
Demeusy, Alfred, Flatbush
Devoy, Peter T., Poughkeepsie.
Dihin, William, 64 W. 125th st.,

New York.
Dingwall. John, Troy Road, Albany.
Dole, C. L., Lockport.
Don, A. L., 114 Chambers st., New

York.
Donaldson, John, Newtown, Long

Island.
Dorval, Victor S., Woodside.
Drawiel, C. F

Brooklyn.
Dreyer, Herman, Woodside, Long

Island.
Dudley, Miss H. E., Bath.
Eger. William C, 825 Union St.,

Schenectady.
Elliott, William, 54 Dey st., New

York.
Falconer, William, Glen Cove.

433 5th ave., South

*Died Oct. 4, 1893.

APPENDIX.

XXI

NEW YORK — Continued.

Little, George W., 4728 Ridge St.,

Glens Falls.
Long, D. B., 495 Washington St.,

Buflalo.
Lynch, M. J., Poughkeepsie.
Mackay, Andrew, Monroe
Mansfield, Thomas, Lockport.
Marc, C. J., Woodside.
McAllister, F. E., 22 Dey st., New

York.
McBride, Alex., Alplaus.
McElfatrick, J. E., 126 Liberty St.,

New York.
McMillan, William, Buffalo.
Meissner, P. Bruno, Flatbush.
Millang, Frank, 17 W. 28th st., New

York.
Miller, A. L., Sta. E., Brooklyn.
Miller, Henry, East N. Y., Brooklyn.
Morgan, James, P. O. Box 23,

Auburn.
Mornen, James, Tuxedo Park.
Neubrand, E. W., Tarrytown.
Nilson, William, Woodlawn, New

York.
Palmer, W. J., 306 Main st., Buffalo.
Palmer, W. J., Jr., 306 Main st.,

Buffalo.
Parsons, Edw. W., Westchester.
Penman, J. Arnot, 7 Wurren st.,

New York.
Pierson, F. R., Tarrytown.
Pierson, Paul M., Scarborough.
Phillips, J. V., 272 Fulton St.,

Brooklyn.
Quinlan, P. R., Syracuse.
Rath, H. C, Flushing.
Rawson, G. P., Elmira.
Roberts, D. H., 159 and 161 So. 5th

ave., New York.
Roehrs, Theo., Ill W. 30th st.,

New York.
Rolker, Jos. E., 136-138 W. 24th

st., New York.
Rolker, Winfried, 136-138 W. 24th

st., New York.
Schaefer, F. H., 382 Broadway,

Newburgh.
Schlegel, F. R., Rochester.
Schmitz, L., Flatbush.

Schweinfurth, F., Bronxville. -
Scott, William, 479 Main st., Buf-
falo.
Sexton, S. B., Hyde Park.
Shanley, James, 216 25th st.,

Brooklyn.
Sheridan, W. F., 32 W. 30th st.,

New York.
Shuphelt, R. E., Chatham.
Siebrecht, H. A., New Rochelle.
Siebrecht, Louis, East Hinsdale.
Siebrecht, W. H., Astoria.
Sill, B. F., 116 Main st., Astoria.
Smith, John, Bayside.
Spear, W. C, New York.
Spencer, J. C, Utica.
Steflens, N., 335 East 21st St., New

York.
Taylor, J. H., Bay Side.
Thorne, Samuel, 71 Wall st., New

York.
Tricker, William, Dongan Hills,

Staten Island.
Van Dyke, Arthur, 136 Liberty St.,

New York.
Vick, F. W., Rochester.
Wadley, A., 409 5th ave., New York.
Wallace, Alex., 170 Fultou St., New

York.
Ward, C W., Queens.
Weathered, C. B., 244 Canal st.,

New York.
Weeber, C G., 114 Chambers st.,

New York.
Weimar, E. W., Mt. Vernon.
Weir, Fred., Bay Ridge, L. I.
Weir, John R., 324 Fulton st.,

Brooklyn.
Wippermann, Herman, 1389 Atlan-
tic ave., Brooklyn.
Wollmers, A., 215 and 217 25th st.,

Brooklyn.
Wood, L. E., Fishkill.
Young, Robert B., 205 Greenwich

st., New York.
Young, Thomas, Jr., 20 West 24th

St., New York.
Zeller, Charles, Flatbush.
Zeller, Emile, Flatbush.

NORTH CAROLINA.

Ernest J. Bush, Morganton, Vice-President.

Bush, Ernest J., Morganton.
Deacke. Mrs. J. B., Asheville.
Deacke, J. W. C, Asheville.

Lamb, James M., Fayetteville.
Rehder, Mrs. H., 9th and Red Cross
sts., Wilmington.

XX11

APPENDIX.

OHIO.

L. R. Kramer, Wooster, and Albert McCullough, Cincinnati, Vice-
Presidents.

Ahem, J. W., Lake Home, Mount

Vernon.
Bauer, P. J., Cleveland.
Bissel, Edw., Dayton.
Bolanz, E. Julius, 206 Wooster ave.,

Akron.
Congdon, A. R., Oberlin.
Corbett, George, College Hill.
Critchell, B. P., 4th and Elm sts.,

Cincinnati.
Cushman. E. H., Euclid.
Eadie, Miss J. M., Euclid ave.,

Cleveland.
Erhardt, Charles, 358 Erie ave.,

Cleveland.
Gasser, J. M., 101 Euclid ave.,

Cleveland
George, Robert, Painesville.
Graham, Adam, East End P. O.,

Cleveland.
Hall, W. S., Osage.
Hart, H. A., West Cleveland.
Heinl, George A., 337 Summit st.,

Toledo.
Herb, Peter, Mt. Healthy.
Hippard, E., Youngstown.
Huntsman, Frank, 37-39 W. 4th St.,

Cincinnati.
Imlay, John D., Zanesville.
Joseph, .Miss Rosa, Pataskala.
Kramer, L. R., Wooster.
Lamborn, Leroy L., Alliance.
Lutzenberger, Chas., National Plant

Co., Dayton.

McCullough, Albert, 134 Walnut

St., Cincinnati.
McCullogh, J. Chas., 2d and Walnut

sts., Cincinnati.
Mull, John, Dayton.
Murphy, R. J., Box 361, Cincinnati.
Nolan, W. C, Myrtle ave., Cincin-
nati.
North, F. W., 712 No. Main St.,

Fostoria.
Ritter, F. W.. Sr., Dayton, O.
Ritter, Herman H., Dayton.
Rogers, Mrs. E. E., Lima.
Rose, Lucius, Akron.
Schmitt, A., Glenville.
Schramm, B., 1315 Cherry St.,

Toledo.
Stearns, A. M., Lockland.
Suder, Mrs. E., 304 Summit St.,

Toledo.
Sunderbruch, H. L., 200£ 4th St.,

Cincinnati.
Sunderbruch, Wm., 200j 4th St.,

( Cincinnati.
Thirkildson, P. II., Ironton.
Wagoner, A. J., Van Wert.
Wilson, Chas. H., Cleveland.
Wilson, John, College Hill.
Witterstaetter, Richard, Sedams-

ville.
Withenbury, C. W., Cincinnati

Dessicating Co., Cincinnati.

PENNSYLVANIA.

Fred. Burki, Bellevue Post Office, and W. Craig, Philadelphia, Vice-
Presidents.

Anderson, George, 5230 Woodland
ave., Philadelphia.

Bader, John, Allegheny..

Baker, Alfred E., Westchester.

Baker, W. J., 1430 So. Penn. sq.,
Philadelphia.

Ball, Charles D., Holmesburg.

Ball, Lemuel, Wissinoming, Phila-
delphia.

Battles, H. H., 108 So. 12th st.,
Philadelphia.

Bayersdorfer, Harry, 56 North 4th
st., Philadelphia.

Beatty, H. B., Oil City.

Becker, H. H., Philadelphia.

Becker, Jacob, 52d and Market sts.,
Philadelphia.

Beckert, Theodore F., Glenfield.

Berkowitz, Paul, 56 North 4th st.
Philadelphia.

Bishop, John W., Philadelphia.

Bisset, Annie A., 333 Tasker st.,
Philadelphia.

Bitner, A., Lancaster.

Bitner, John W., Lancaster.

Blanc, A., 314 North 11th st.,
Philadelphia.

Boas, W. J., 16 N. 5th st., Philadel-
phia.

Brescheman, W. L., 935 South 2d
st., Philadelphia.

Burki, Fred., Bellevue Post Office,
Allegheny County.

APPENDIX.

XX111

PENNSYLVANIA — Continued.

Burpee, W. Atlee, 5th and Willow

sts., Philadelphia.
Burton, John, Chestnut Hill, Phila-
delphia.
Butler, Thomas, Chestnut Hill,

Philadelphia.
Butz, Geo. C, State College, Centre

Co.
Butz, William T., New Castle.
Campbell, Edw., Philadelphia.
Cartledge, Thomas, 1514 Chestnut

St., Philadelphia.
Chaapel, Harry, Williamsport.
Cheney, M. C, Station R., Phila-
delphia.
Clark, G. R., 146 Washington ave.,

Scranton.
Clark, E. R., 33d st. and Lehigh

ave., Philadelphia.
Connell, Benjamin, West Grove.
Connelly. J. J., Bryn Maur.
Connor, D. T., Collingdale.
Cook, J. A., Philadelphia.
Cox, George, Birdsboro.
Craig, Robert, 49th and Market sts.,

Philadelphia.
Craig, W., 49th and Market sts.,

Philadelphia.
Curwen, John, Jr., Villa Nova,

Philadelphia.
Davis, Chester, Winwood.
Delahunt, Thomas F., Chester.
DeMuth, C. E., Connellsville.
Dillon, J. L., Bloomsburir.
Downes, Alex., Wissahickon

Heights, Chestnut Hill.
Dreer, William F., 714 Chestnut

st., Philadelphia.
Eisele, C, 11th and Jefferson sts.,

Philadelphia.
Eisele, John G., 1322 No. 12th St.,

Philadelphia.
Eisele, J. D., 714 Chestnut St.,

Philadelphia.
Ekekrantz, T., Falls of Schuylkill,

Philadelphia.
Eldridge, W. M., Wilkesbarre.
Elliott, J. W., Pittsburg.
Ely, Z. DeForest, 1024 Market st.,

Philadelphia.
Evans, Chas. F., Rowlandville,

Philadelphia.
Falck, R., Allegheny.
Fancourt, George E., Wilkesbarre.
Farson, D. D. L., Horticultural

Hall, Philadelphia.
Fliegel, Charles E., 2435 W. Hunt-
ingdon st., Philadelphia.

Fox, Charles, Broad St., Phila-
delphia.

Fox, Charles H., 21st st. and Co-
lumbia ave., Philadelphia.

Foulds, Thos., Philadelphia.

Gass, D., Allegheny.

Gass, Harry C, McClure ave.,
Allegheny.

Giles, John H., 37 North 10th st.,
Reading.

HabermehCE.W., 22d and Diamond
sts., Philadelphia.

Hahman, F., Harrowgate Lane,
Philadelphia.

Harper, W. W., Chesnut Hill, Phil-
adelphia.

Harris, J. T., Schuylkill Falls,
Philadelphia.

Harris, W. K., Jr., 5501 Darby
road, Philadelphia.

Harris, W. K., Sr., 5501 Darby
road, Philadelphia.

Hartman, F. M., Allegheny.

Hartman, H. L., Allegheny.

Heacock, Joseph, Wyncote.

Heron, Richard, 1735 Chestnut st.,
Philadelphia.

Herr, Albert M., P.O. Box 338, Lan-
caster.

Hobson, John, Westchester.

Hoskin, George II., 37 No. 10th St.,
Reading.

Hostetter, E. P., Manheim.

Hughes, J. M., Bryn Maur.

Hutton, James, Lower Roxborough,
Philadelphia.

Jones, J. H., Philadelphia.

Joyce, J. D., Philadelphia.

Kauf matin, Ernest, 113 No. 4th St.,
Philadelphia.

Keller. William F. , 1114 Northamp-
ton St., Easton.

Kift, Joseph, Westchester.

Kift, Robert, 1721 Chestnut st.,
Philadelphia.

Kirchner, Conrad, Philadelphia.

Kletzly, J., Verona.

Koehler, A., Jr., 1237 Chestnut St.,
Philadelphia.

Koehler, William H., 4000 German-
town ave., Nicetown.

Kohr, F. L., 350 No. Queen st.,
Lancaster.

Krebs, F. S., 543 Belgrade st.,
Philadelphia.

Krueger, Augustus, Meadville.

Landis, L. H., Box 344, Lancaster.

Larkin, I., Toughkenamon.

XXIV

APPENDIX.

PENNSYLVANIA — Continued.

LaRoche, M. F., 13th and Chestnut

sts., Philadelphia.
Lauch. Wm. F., Carrick P. O.,

Allegheny Co.
Leahy, G. H., West Grove.
Loew, Wm.,84 East St., Allegheny.
Lonsdale, Edwin, Chestnut Hill,

Philadelphia.
Ludwig, E., Allegheny.
Ludwig, J. W., Allegheny.
LuitAvieler, J. C., York.
Lutz, Any., 311 North 32d St., Phila-
delphia.
Mackin, E. ,71st and Greenway ave.,

W. Philadelphia.
Manning, J., Pittsburg.
Manuel, C., Philadelphia.
Marschuetz, Joseph, 25 North 4th

St., Philadelphia.
Maule, William II., 1711 Filbert st.,

Philadelphia.
Mayberry, Thomas, 218 39th st.,

Pittsburg.
McFarland, J. Horace, Harrisburg.
McNab, John, Birdsboro.
Meyer, Jacob M., Lancaster.
Miller, J., Wylie Ave., Allegheny.
Michell, II. F., 1018 Market st.,

Philadelphia.
Moon, S. C, Morrisville.
Moon, W. II., Morrisville.
Mott, Walter, 714 Chestnut st.,

Philadelphia.
Murdoch, Alexander, 508 Smithfleld

st., Pittsburg.
Murdoch, A. M., 510 Smithfleld St.,

Pittsburg.
Murdoch, John R., Jr., Pittsburg.
Myers. Thomas J., Jr., 1173 South

9th St., Philadelphia.
Nelson, Alexander, AlleghenyCeme-

tery, Pittsburg.
Nisbet. Johu, 1735 Chestnut st.,

Philadelphia.
Oberlin, T. J., Sinking Spring.
Oesterle, George, Pittsburg.
Otter, Harold, Doylestown.
Paget, John, Lochiel Park, Harris-
burg.
Park, Geo. W., Libonia, Franklin

Co.
Patterson, N., Pittsburg.
Patterson, Robert C, 511 Market

st., Pittsburg.
Pennock, C. J., Kennett sq.
Pennock, S. S., 42 S. 16th st., Phil-
adelphia.
Quibell, William, 513 Erie ave.,

Philadelphia.
Randolph, P. S., Pittsburg.

Reed, William. B., Chambersburg.
Reig, John, Jenkintown.
Reineman. E. C, 305 Lowry st.,

Allegheny.
Rice, M., 25 N. 4th st., Philadelphia.
Rimby, Horace, Collea:eville.
Rockwell, W. C. , Bradford.
Rohrer, A. D., Lancaster.
Rohrer, H. D., Lancaster.
Rohrer, Willis, Lancaster.
Rupp, John F.. Shiremanstown.
Rupp, D. C, Shiremanstown.
Schmeiske, W. F., Harrisburg.
Schroyer, George W., Lancaster.
Scott, A. B., 10th and Catharine

sts., Philadelphia.
Seidel, D. B., Pottsville.
Selkreu;;, F. E., North-east.
Rhelmire, W. R., Avondale.
Siebert, Charles T. , Stanton ave.,

Station B., Pittsburg.
Skidelsky, S., 1201 N. 25th St.,

Philadelphia.
Smith, A. W., Boggs ave., Pitts-
burg.
Smith, Chas. E., York.
Stahl, B., 13th and Chestnut sts.,

Philadelphia.
Standen, Henry G., Haverford.
Steuffer, A. C, Philadelphia.
Strohlein, George A., 714 Chestnut

St., Philadelphia.
Strong, O. H., Oil City.
Swayne, Edw., Kennett sq.
Swayne, William, Kennett sq.
Taplin, W. H., Holmesburg.
Thilow, J. Otto, 714 Chestnut st.,

Philadelphia.
Tong, Herbert, Erie.
Turner, Wm., Pittsburg.
Walker, J. Coas, Philadelphia.
Walker, John, 49th and Market sts.,

Philadelphia.
Watson, George C, 1025 Arch St.,

Philadelphia.
Westcott, John, Ridge and Lehigh

aves., Philadelphia.
Westcott, William H., Ridge and

Lehigh aves., Philadelphia.
Whilldin, J. G., 713 Wharton st.,

Philadelphia.
Whiting, W. H., Wellsboro.
Winters, Thomas J., 1016 Commerce

St., Harrisburg.
Wintzer, A., West Grove.
Woltemate, A., Germantown.
Young, John W., Frank st., Ger-
mantown.
Zimmerman, J. F., Emsworth,

Allegheny Co.

APPEKDIX.

XXV

RHODE ISLAND.

W. Appleton, Jr., Providence, Vice-President.

Appleton, W., Jr., 158 Broadway,

Providence.
Butcher, William, 20 Pitman St.,

Providence.
Corp, Z. R., 308 Cranston St.,

Providence.

Gardner, Richard, Newport.
Hodgkinson, William, Bristol.
Johnson, George, 18 Earl St.,

Providence.
Jurgens, Carl, Newport.
Reuter, S. J., Westerly.

SOUTH CAROLINA.

Shepard, Charles U., 68 Meeting
st., Charleston,

TENNESSEE.

Olof Johnson, Memphis, Vice-President.

Crouch, C. W., Knoxville.
Haisch, Albert, Memphis.
Hune, C. H., Memphis.
Johnson, Olof., Memphis.

Moore, Henry, 54 Beale St.,

phis.
Williamson, J. T,, Memphis.

Mem-.

Kaden, Herman, Gainesville

Allen, C. E., Brattleboro.
Brvant, H, St. Albans.
Gibbs, C. F., St. Johnsbury.

TEXAS.

Nickels, Anna B., Laredo.

VERMONT.
C. E. Allen, Brattleboro, Vice-President.

Mass, George H., Woodstock.

McGillivray, D., Brattleboro.
Wilson, John, Burlington.

VIRGINIA.

J. Chesley Wilbur, Norfolk, Vice-President.

Harris, W. J., London and Cook
sts., Portsmouth.

Robertson, John, Alexandria.

Virnelson, W. B., 169 Old St.,
Petersburg.

Whealan, F. A., Mt. Vernon.

Wilbur, J. Chesley, Norfolk.

Wood, C. Frank, Richmond.

Brown, H. W., 878 Green St., Dan-
ville.

Daughtrey, Mrs. M. F., 207 High
st., Portsmouth.

Goodrich, C. L., Normal School,
Hampton.

Gordon, J. Palmer, Ashland.

Hammond, W. A., Richmond.

Harvey, J. Harry, Richmond.

WEST VIRGINIA.

Pennock, F. M., Charlestown. |

WISCONSIN.

E. Haentz, Fond du Lac, Vice-President.

Brudahl, J. P., 832 Racine st.,

Racine.
Dalgleish, David L., Milwaukee.
Demmler, O. R., Eau Clair.
Dunlop, John M., Wauwatosa.
Edlefson, William, 733 Seventh st.,

Milwaukee.
Fountaine, F., Racine.
Freytag, J., Forest Home ave.,

Milwaukee.
Goi'don, Mrs. George, Milwaukee.

Haentz, E., Fond du Lac.
Helms, Walter, Janesville.
Leslie, Frank, Lake Geneva.
Middlemass, Archie, Milwaukee.
Nelson, John, Oshkosh.
Pefier, George P., Milwaukee.
Salzer, John A., La Crosse.
Schucht, Otto, Sheboygan.
Turner, Lewis, Kenosha.
Whitnall, C. B., 428 Milwaukee St.,
Milwaukee.

XXVI

APPENDIX.

DOMINION OF CANADA.
ONTARIO.

Hknry Dale, Brampton, Vice-President.

Aylett, S., Hamilton.

Cotterill, John, Deer Park.

Craig, S. EL, 368 Dufferin ave.,

London.
Dale, Henry, Brampton.
Dunlop, John H., Box 50, Brockton

Post Office, Toronto.
Dunne, Adam, Gait.
Ewing, A. H., Normal School,

Toronto.
Foster, F. G., Hamilton.
Johnson, O. G., Kingston.

Marcou, W. H., care Steele Bros.,
Toronto.

Mearns, Robert, Toronto.

Muston, Walter, Deer Park.

Simmers, A. J. G., Toronto.

Stephens, J. B., 358 Yonge St.,
Toronto.

Terrill, A. M., Pictou.

Vair, George, Chestnut Park, To-
ronto.

Webster, James F., Hamilton.

QUEBEC.

John Walsh, Montreal, Vice-President.

Bennett, Joseph, 231)2 St. Catharine
st., Montreal.

Campbell, C, 48 Beaver Hall Hill,
Montreal.

Doyle, John, 5 Lome Crescent,
Montreal.

Evans, Wm., Jr., McGill St., Mon-
treal.

Girdwood, F. L., Montreal.

McKenna, James, Cote des Neiges,
Montreal.

Trussed, George, Head of Durocher
st., Montreal.

Walsh, John, 100 Redpath st., Mon-
treal.

IRELAND

Dickson, Hugh, 55 Royal ave., Bel-
fast.

Unger, Alfred, Yokohama.

JAPAN.

I

BERMUDA.
Outerbridge, E. W. , Sunnylauds. | Outerbridge, J. D., Sunnylands.

INDEX.

Page
FIRST DAT. MORNING SESSION.

Addresses of Welcome 6

President's Address 7

Secretary's Report 15

Treasurer's Report 16

Discussion of President's Address 19

FIRST DAY. EVENING SESSION.

Essay — Carnations 20

Question Box 26

Essay — Chrysanthemums 37

American Chrysanthemum Society 49

SECOND DAY. MORNING SESSION.

Greetings from Abroad 50

Nominations of Officers for 1894 51

Essay — Successful Rose Growing 53

Committee on Express Kates 65

American Rose Society .......... 67

SECOND DAY. EVENING SESSION.

Essay — Horticultural Exhibitions 68

Essay — Neglected Plants in Out-door Decoration .... 80

Question Box 85

Florists' Hail Association 86

THIRD DAY. MORNING SESSION.

Nomenclature Committee 89

Election of Officers 93

World's Horticultural Congress 98

Essay — Hybridization 99

Fire Insurance 106

Florists' Protective Association 110

International Telegraph-Delivery Association 110

THIRD DAY. EVENING SESSION.

Election of President . . . . . . ■ . . .111

Essay — Labor Saving Devices 114

Final Resolutions 122

Presentations 122

Question Box 125

Appendix. Letters from Abroad i

Reports of Exhibition Committees vii

Chrysanthemums Registered 1892-93 . . . . x

List of Members . . .- xiii

\# .♦

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